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Dan Kosta, horticulturist at Vern Goers Greenhouse, joins Wendy Snyder (in for Bob Sirott) to share his advice on keeping cilantro growing for as long as possible and getting rid of overgrown trumpet vines. He also answers questions from listeners.
Dean Richards, entertainment reporter for WGN, joins Wendy Snyder, (in for Bob Sirott) to provide the latest news in entertainment. Wendy and Dean share highlights from Ozzy Osbourne’s final live performance and remembering his performance ay Wrigley Field. They also talk about the weekend box office numbers, reactions about Michael Madsen’s death, why Kelly Clarkson […]
Dr. Irfan Hafiz, Chief Medical Officer of Northwestern Medicine's Northwest region of hospitals, joins Wendy Snyder (in for Bob Sirott) to talk about four types of cancer screenings, whether or not the age for colorectal cancer screenings will be dropped, and why eating processed meat isn’t safe. He also shares details about a decrease in […]
Public artist of the You Are Beautiful project Matthew Hoffman joins Wendy Snyder (in for Bob Sirott) to talk about when he created his famous stickers and what inspired him. He also shares where you can find some of his well-known pieces and what they have available at their shop in Chicago. For more information, […]
Some conversations remind you why you do the work, and this is one of them. Wendy Snyder is a parenting educator, family life coach, and founder of Fresh Start Family. She's also a mom of two teens and someone I've long admired for her honesty, grace, and commitment to helping families break generational cycles with compassion. Wendy teaches parents how to go from stressed and reactive to peaceful and empowered using a firm and kind, connection-based model. Her work is rooted in powerful parenting, not permissive, not authoritarian, but grounded in dignity, respect, and real tools for real life.In this conversation, we go deep into what it means to raise strong-willed kids (and why it's a gift), how to respond instead of react (even in the car), and why humility, not perfection, is the parenting superpower we all need. Whether you're navigating toddler meltdowns, teen pushback, or just trying to stay calm at the gas station after a long day, there is something here for you.Topics We Covered:What positive or powerful parenting really meansWhy strong-willed kids are future leadersHow to stop using shame, bribes, or threats and what to do insteadSupporting your child by healing your own inner childWhat to do when you're triggered and exhaustedHow to “pull over” emotionally and physically in tough momentsKey Takeaways:Strong-willed children invite us into growth; they're not problems to fixSlowing down gives you space to respond with wisdom, not reactivityYou don't need to force apologies; you need to teach peaceful resolutionModeling calm and compassion teaches more than any rulebook ever willYou're not a bad parent; you're just healing in real time, alongside your kidsLinks & Resources:Website: https://freshstartfamilyonline.com/Podcast: The Fresh Start Family ShowInstagram: @freshstartwendy / https://www.instagram.com/freshstartwendy/YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@wendysnyder-freshstartfamilyFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/freshstartfamilyLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-snyder-freshstartonlineFree Quick Start Learning Bundle: freshstartfamilyonline.com/powerFirm and Kind Parenting Blueprint: “Fresh Start Family + Firm and Kind Blueprint”Read Wendy's viral articles: “I Left Bruises” and “The Night I Threw a Book at My Kid”If you needed this conversation, share it. With your partner, your best friend, your sister, or someone in the grocery store line. Let's keep lifting each other up as we raise the next generation, one moment of grace at a time. Support the showConnect with me in the following ways:www.theadventureparadox.com FacebookInstagramcatcaldwellmyers@gmail.com
Just when you think you've got this parenting thing down, they become teenagers and start pushing every boundary. Wendy Snyder, certified parenting educator, family life coach, and mom of two is all about helping parents ditch the yelling, threats, and punishments—and instead parent from a place of connection Wendy's approach is all about raising good humans without losing your mind. She teaches strategies that actually work. If you're in the thick of teen chaos or just want to feel like a better version of yourself as a parent, this one's for you. You can follow Wendy on Instagram at @freshstartwendy.This podcast is presented by The Common Parent. The all-in-one parenting resource you need to for your teens & tweens. We've uncovered every parenting issue, so you don't have too.Are you a parent that is struggling understanding the online world, setting healthy screen-time limits, or navigating harmful online content? Purchase screen sense for $49.99 & unlock Cat & Nat's ultimate guide to parenting in the digital age. Go to https://www.thecommonparent.com/guideFollow @thecommonparent on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecommonparent/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Just when you think you've got this parenting thing down, they become teenagers and start pushing every boundary. Wendy Snyder, certified parenting educator, family life coach, and mom of two is all about helping parents ditch the yelling, threats, and punishments—and instead parent from a place of connection Wendy's approach is all about raising good humans without losing your mind. She teaches strategies that actually work. If you're in the thick of teen chaos or just want to feel like a better version of yourself as a parent, this one's for you. You can follow Wendy on Instagram at @freshstartwendy.This podcast is presented by The Common Parent. The all-in-one parenting resource you need to for your teens & tweens. We've uncovered every parenting issue, so you don't have too.Are you a parent that is struggling understanding the online world, setting healthy screen-time limits, or navigating harmful online content? Purchase screen sense for $49.99 & unlock Cat & Nat's ultimate guide to parenting in the digital age. Go to https://www.thecommonparent.com/guideFollow @thecommonparent on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecommonparent/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Nationally syndicated financial columnist and author Terry Savage joins Wendy Snyder, filling in for Lisa Dent, to discuss the stock market. Savage details the rallies on the stock market in spite of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Then, she reviews what might be the reason for the surge, and as always, answers questions from listeners.
Howard Tullman, American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, educator, writer, lecturer, and art collector, joins Wendy Snyder, filling in for Lisa Dent, to discuss his latest article.
Jon Skillings, Editorial Director at CNET, joins Wendy Snyder, in for Lisa Dent, to talk about generative AI. Skillings shares how people can use generative AI to make life easier.
Dave Benjamin, Executive Director of the Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project, joins Wendy Snyder in for Lisa Dent. Dave discusses water safety and the importance of recognizing the signs of drowning. For more information about water education and safety, visit glsrp.org.
Wendy Snyder, filling in for Lisa Dent, checks in with the newsroom to hear their stories.
WGN Radio’s pet expert and host of Steve Dale’s Pet World and Steve Dale’s Other World, Steve Dale, joins Wendy Snyder, in for Lisa Dent, to discuss fireworks and how to prepare your pets for the 4th of July.
Tom Mockaitis, DePaul Professor and terrorism expert, joins Wendy Snyder, in for Lisa Dent, to discuss Iran firing missiles at a U.S. base in Qatar. Is that the next step in escalation, or could it be an opportunity for both sides to end hostilities? And, even if the current tensions can be brought to an […]
Bob Zeni, the Chicago Tomato Man, joins Wendy Snyder, filling in for Lisa Dent, to talk about overwatering your plants in the heat. Bob also discusses flower drop and the ideal temperature for tomato plants. He also answers listener questions!
Wendy Snyder, in for Lisa Dent, checks in with the newsroom to hear their stories.
Chef Dan DeSalvo, Chef at Mastro's Chicago, joins Wendy Snyder, in for Lisa Dent, to discuss Mastro’s happy hour food menu and share some samples with the crew!
Julia Momosé, Chef, Creative Director, and Beverage Visionary at Kumiko Japanese Dining Bar, joins Wendy Snyder, in for Lisa Dent, to discuss Kumiko winning the Outstanding Bar award at the 2025 James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards!
Ilyce Glink, CEO of Best Money Moves financial wellness company, joins Wendy Snyder, in for Lisa Dent, to discuss passwords being leaked this week and shares things you should do in order to protect your online accounts.
Author, terrorism analyst, and DePaul University history professor Dr. Thomas Mockaitis joins Wendy Snyder, in for Lisa Dent, to give an update on the latest with Israel and Iran.
Wendy Snyder, in for Lisa Dent, checks in with the newsroom to hear their stories.
Shamus Toomey, Editor in Chief and co-founder of Block Club Chicago, joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to share the latest Chicago neighborhood stories. Shamus has details on: Navy Pier Marina Opens In June, Allowing Boaters To Dock At Popular Tourist Site: First proposed in 2016, the marina will finally allow public boaters to dock […]
WGN Radio’s Senior Digital Strategist and co-host of the Chicago’s Very Own Eats podcast Michael Piff joins Wendy Snyder (in for Bob Sirott) to talk about the third edition of WGN’s ‘Chicago’s Best Beef Tournament’, sponsored by Turano Baking Company and Caruso Provisions. Michael details this year’s bracket which features 64 mom-and-pop restaurants from the […]
John Dumas, Administrative Director at Share Food Share Love Food Pantry, joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to chat about the increase in people at the food pantry since the price of food has risen. Wendy also talks about the celebrity bartending event she’s participating in at Milkstop Cafe in La Grange that will […]
Sabrina Ortiz, senior editor for ZDNET, joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to talk about the benefits and shortcomings that AI has for all walks of life. Wendy asks Sabrina if we should be worried that AI will take our jobs and how soon that process could take place. Sabrina also explains her liking […]
WGN Radio’s Senior Digital Strategist and co-host of the Chicago’s Very Own Eats podcast Michael Piff joins Wendy Snyder (in for Bob Sirott) to talk about the third edition of WGN’s ‘Chicago’s Best Beef Tournament’, sponsored by Turano Baking Company and Caruso Provisions. Michael details this year’s bracket which features 64 mom-and-pop restaurants from the […]
Stephanie Lulay, Executive Editor and co-founder of Block Club Chicago, joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to share the latest Chicago neighborhood stories. She provides details on: South Siders ‘Puzzled,' Smitten By Concrete Cadillac Housed In Hyde Park Parking Garage: A 1957 Cadillac DeVille, encased in concrete using instructions by artist Wolf Vostell, moved into […]
Tom Johnson, Better Business Bureau VP of Board and Public Relations, joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to discuss several scams targeting people about REAL ID. Tom also details the car wrap scam and talks about fake Amazon accounts that are pretending to be customer and tech support.
Fox Lake’s Director of Community and Economic Development Jodi Luka joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to highlight some of the key features of the Fox Lake community. Jodi talks about Fox Lake’s position on the renowned Chain O’ Lakes, its new Lakefront Park Beach, the best place to eat breakfast, and some other […]
Columnist and film critic Richard Roeper joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to talk about the annual ‘Movies in the Parks’ series which kicks off June 10th in Chicago. Richard highlights ‘Jaws’ 50th anniversary, a sing-along version of ‘Wicked’, and some of the other iconic films that will be shown throughout the city.
Author Chris Carosa joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to talk about National Hamburger Day and the origin story of the hamburger. Chris and Wendy chat about some of the unique toppings that people put on burgers and what dreaming about burgers truly means. You can learn more about hamburgers and their interesting history […]
Jen Sabella, Director of Strategy and co-founder of Block Club Chicago, joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to share the latest Chicago neighborhood stories. She provides details on: Pe Erre Domino Club Coming to Humboldt Park's Paseo Boricua: An all-ages social club aimed at preserving the game of dominoes, a Puerto Rican cultural tradition, is […]
Anna Davlantes, WGN Radio's investigative correspondent, joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to share what happened this week in Chicago history. Stories include Al Piemonte Ford’s memorable TV ads from the 80s, Marriott’s Great America’s Memorial Day weekend grand opening, and Leaf Brands candy company.
Patric Richardson, The Laundry Evangelist and host of ‘The Laundry Guy’ on Discovery+, joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to talk about the best laundry practices. Patric details how frequently we should wash our sheets and then highlights his laundry camp that teaches how to wash and sort all clothing and fabric. Patric also […]
Blockbuster Blake Stubbs, in for Dean Richards, joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to provide details on the latest news in entertainment. Wendy and Blake talk about ‘Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning', ‘Lilo and Stitch’ taking the top spot, Memorial Day weekend box office numbers, Rod Stewart’s performance at AMAs, George Clooney’s new […]
Chicago trial attorney Karen Conti joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to discuss the executive order that President Donald Trump issued to prevent foreign students from attending Harvard. Karen gives an update on the Sean “P Diddy” Combs trial that has entered its third week and also details some Supreme Court cases that are […]
Paul Nolte, Senior Wealth Advisor & Market Strategist for Murphy & Sylvest, joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to discuss the shortage of products on the shelves and why certain items can be difficult to obtain. Paul and Wendy also talk about the impact of tariffs on goods and how people can save money […]
Jen Sabella, Director of Strategy and co-founder of Block Club Chicago, joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to share the latest Chicago neighborhood stories. She provides details on: Self-Guided ‘Pastport' Offers Bargoers A Tour Of 8 Historical Logan Square Taverns: The monthlong crawl highlights insider secrets, weird building tidbits, and stories from bar owners past […]
Dave Benjamin, Co-founder and Executive Director of the Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project, joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to talk about water and boat safety with summer on the horizon. Dave stresses the importance of not panicking in a critical water situation, as panic is the first stage of drowning.
Bob Zeni, the Chicago Tomato Man, joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to inform listeners on how often they should fertilize their tomatoes, the recommended distance to keep between plants, and the best soil for plant growth. The Tomato Man also answers listeners’ questions about their gardens.
Chicago radio personality and Barguments podcast host Dan Levy joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to talk about the start of grilling season and the best recipes for listeners to fire up on the grill this summer. Wendy, Dan, and Dave Eanet each comment on ways they clean their grills, and then Wendy shares a tasty […]
Tanner Mitchell, known as Tanner the Planter, joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to chat about ways to keep your indoor plants healthy longer as well as tips for repotting houseplants. Tanner also details some ingredients and fertilizers to use to enhance the life of your plants. You can find Tanner’s plant advice and […]
Shamus Toomey, Editor in Chief and co-founder of Block Club Chicago, joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to share the latest Chicago neighborhood stories. Shamus has details on: After Uber Caught Overcharging Chicago Riders, City And State Push To Regulate Rideshares: Block Club reported that Uber was overcharging the city's downtown congestion fee. A city […]
WGN’s Dane Neal joins Wendy Snyder, in for Bob Sirott, to set the stage for the 2025 Indianapolis 500. Dane discusses the excitement leading up to the race and highlights some of the great food available for fans to purchase. The Indy 500 coverage gets underway at 9:00 AM Sunday morning with Dane on WGN […]
Parenting is hard - but it can help when you're able to lower the temperature. If you've followed me for a while, you know I subscribe to the research-based "connection before correction" philosophy when it comes to stepparents getting involved in discipline. My guest for this episode has an expertise in what she calls "compassionate discipline," which is a great option for parents looking for a way to be more responsive and less reactive. Wendy's work on positive parenting strategies is inspiring - and should give us all some food for thought as we work to create strong relationships with our kids and stepkids. About Wendy: Wendy Snyder is a mom of two, certified parenting educator & family life coach, who inspires parents to learn & grow through connection based positive parenting strategies. As the host of The Fresh Start Family Show & Founder of FreshStartFamilyOnline.com, she helps parents ditch the threats, yelling & harsh punishments so they can live life as a joyful & confident parent (with kids that listen & cooperate great!). Families who take part in her learning & coaching programs experience radical shifts in their hearts, minds & souls - that help them to create rock solid relationships with their kids, while at the same time teaching important life lessons & helping to raise the next generation of leaders, change makers & important human souls. You Can Find Wendy: freshstartfamilyonline.com The Fresh Start Family Show podcast Instagram: @freshstartwendy YouTube:@wendysnyder-freshstartfamily Facebook: @freshstartfamily Links Mentioned In This Episode: FREE Quick Start Learning Bundle: 3 Secrets to Thriving with Strong-Willed Kids Firm and Kind Parenting Blueprint Are you enjoying The Stepmom Diaries? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show. It will help me reach more stepmoms just like you so they can get MORE out of stepmom life! It's super easy – all you have to do is click HERE and scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “write a review.” Then just let me know what you like best! And the best part about leaving a review? If you send me a screenshot of your review, I'll send YOU my 20-minute Stepmom Self-Care Blueprint. For FREE. It's normally $49 and it's a great tool to quickly set up a self-care plan you'll actually use. Just head HERE to send me your screenshot and grab your blueprint!
Chicago Tribune food critic Louisa Chu joins Wendy Snyder (in for Bob Sirott) to share her review of a new Middle Eastern restaurant in Bridgeview, M'daKhan, and Proxi’s focus on Asian-style cuisine. She also talks about a comfort food restaurant located in the Moonflower cocktail bar, Funeral Potatoes.
Dean Richards, entertainment reporter for WGN, joins Wendy Snyder (in for Bob Sirott) to provide the latest news in entertainment. Wendy and Dean talk about Bob Sirott’s nomination for the Radio Hall of Fame and things to do this weekend. They also share details about a couple of celebrity deaths, Russell Brand’s first court appearance, […]
Shamus Toomey, Editor in Chief and co-founder of Block Club Chicago, joins Wendy Snyder (in for Bob Sirott) to share the latest Chicago neighborhood stories. Shamus has details on: Chicago's Comic Book Stores Banding Together For Citywide Shop Crawl Saturday: Neighborhood shops plan to take this year's Free Comic Book Day festivities to a new level, […]
In this heartfelt and empowering episode of Aligned Womb, Aligned You, I'm joined by the incredible Wendy Snyder—certified parenting educator, family life coach, and host of The Fresh Start Family Show. Together, we dive deep into the realities of modern parenting, especially for women navigating midlife, hormones, entrepreneurship, and the emotional weight of “doing it all.”Wendy shares her wisdom on responsive parenting, strong-willed kids, and how to break free from outdated methods like yelling, punishments, and shame-based discipline. We explore the importance of understanding the nervous system's role in reactivity, how to recondition ourselves to respond with intention, and why self-compassion is the secret sauce for every parent.You'll hear personal stories, honest reflections, and powerful tools that can help you move from guilt and overwhelm to more peace, cooperation, and connection at home.✨ In this episode, we cover:Why midlife stress makes parenting even harder—and what to do about itHow to parent without yelling (yes, it's possible!)The truth about strong-willed kids and how to empower themWhat your nervous system has to do with your parenting reactionsThe harmful loop of perfectionism and shame—and how to exit itSimple mindset and communication tools to reduce power strugglesThe power of modeling instead of controllingHow to forgive yourself and repair with your kidsWhy community and support are essential for modern parentsWhether you're feeling burnt out, disconnected, or just want some new tools in your parenting toolbox—this conversation is for you.About Wendy Snyder:Wendy is a mom of two, certified parenting educator, and family life coach. Through her work at Fresh Start Family, she teaches connection-based positive parenting strategies that help families thrive. Her coaching and courses help parents ditch harsh discipline tactics in favor of joyful, confident parenting rooted in love, growth, and mutual respect.Resources & Links:
In this special Easter episode, Wendy Snyder opens her heart wide to share a deeply personal reflection on what has died and what has come alive in her heart, home, and business over the past year. With themes of rebirth, courage, faith, grief, advocacy, and radical love, Wendy invites listeners into her evolving journey as a Christ-centered parent and leader. This episode is both a sacred pause and a powerful encouragement to stop hiding, start rising, and live more fully in alignment with your convictions—even when it's hard. Wendy speaks candidly about what it means to let go of people-pleasing, find deeper nervous system peace, and embrace faith that feels safe, affirming, and inclusive. Whether you've walked a similar path or are simply curious about what it looks like to stand strong in your values while continuing to grow and heal, this episode will touch your heart and spark important reflection. It's an invitation to rise into new life with grace, grit, and bold compassion. For links & more info about everything discussed in this episode, head to www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/272 Join Kate Northrup for her FREE 3-day financial healing, Good With Money workshop that starts April 17th! Head to https://freshstartfamilyonline.com/goodwithmoney to register. Catch this full episode on YouTube! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices