episodes

Why is it so easy for dads to block off hours for golf while moms struggle to claim leisure time? We explore the parenting “leisure gap,” mom guilt, friendship, hobbies, and how mothers can reclaim meaningful time for themselves.

Why is it so hard to ask for big help, especially when we’re usually grateful to be able to assist a friend in need? How can we become “askable friends” and better helpers? How can we prepare for the big help times in our own lives before they arrive?

Why do we avoid deeper connection with others when we're wired for it? Behavioral scientist Nicholas Epley, author of A LITTLE MORE SOCIAL, tells us how small daily interactions really can improve our health and emotional wellbeing.

How should parents start talking to kids about romance and consent? Amy and Margaret discuss teen relationships, setting healthy boundaries, relationship red flags, and how to raise kids with strong self-worth and communication skills.

Do you feel like your health, well-being, and sanity as a mom always comes after your family’s needs– which means there’s no room left to consider such things? Guest Leslie Forde, CEO of Mom's Hierarchy of Needs, explains how to get more intentional.

Co-hosts of the "You’re So Right" podcast, Rachael Shepherd-Ohta and Caitlin Wilder, discuss maternal mental health, motherhood on social media, and their mutual Bravo obsession.

Is American parenting hard because of how we parent—or where we're doing it? We discuss how American culture shapes parenting stress and burnout—and why the support other cultures offer their parents may be the real parenting secret..

Olivia Martinez-Hauge is a mom of three kids, two with neurodiversity. She’s also a therapist who treats individuals and families who caregive. We talk parenting special-needs kids, plus how to be better allies to friends who might be on that path.

Why does modern parenting feel so difficult? Science journalist Elizabeth Preston, author of THE CREATURES' GUIDE TO CARING, explains how animal parenting offers myriad models for human caregiving.

How do you get kids to contribute to household labor without resorting to threats or bribes? We explore family responsibility, boundaries, and raising capable kids who contribute consistently and willingly.

What if we focused on the strengths of kids with autism rather than getting caught up in their perceived shortcomings or differing needs? Dr. Lynn Koegel, author of HIDDEN BRILLIANCE, discusses how to go about it.

How can women reclaim their time, rest, and dreams from the everyday weight of the mental load? Leah Ruppanner, author of the new book DRAINED, explains how the mental load shows up in daily life and how to rebalance your energy and priorities.

What exactly is emotional intelligence? How does it contribute to our effectiveness and happiness? And is it something we are supposed to teach our kids?

Kate Swenson started “Finding Cooper’s Voice”while searching for answers after her son’s autism diagnosis. Her book FOREVER BOY is about Kate’s journey to acceptance, and how sharing her own family’s triumphs and challenges became a road to advocacy.

What does it mean for kids to grow up online? Fortesa Latifi, author of the new book LIKE, FOLLOW, SUBSCRIBE, explores influencer families, the ethics of sharing children’s lives, and the hidden costs of turning everyday parenting into content.

The last day you pick up your child is emotional. But what about the last day you have to wipe their butt? We asked our listeners what small yet significant parenting milestones made their lives ten times easier.

Meg Zucker is the author of the book BORN EXTRAORDINARY: Empowering Children with Differences and Disabilities. We talk about the work all parents can do to empower all kids.

How do we make sure our kids know life's most important lessons before they leave the nest? Christina Geist shares heartfelt advice on preparing kids for independence, balancing practical and emotional lessons, and navigating the college transition.

Why do we fear uncertainty? Far more, as it turns out, than we fear actual risk? We explore the psychology behind fear of the unknown, and how it fuels anxiety and complicates our decision-making.

Janice Johnson Dias is a professor of sociology whose work focuses on the mental and physical health of girls, Black girls in particular. We discuss change-making, joy, and her book PARENT LIKE IT MATTERS: HOW TO RAISE JOYFUL, CHANGE-MAKING GIRLS.

Wishing you read more? Wondering why you don't? Meredith Monday Schwartz, co-host of "The Currently Reading Podcast," has advice for rebuilding a joyful reading life.

Struggling to get your kids to read? This episode explores why kids become reluctant readers, how screens impact habits, and practical, pressure-free ways to make reading part of everyday family life—without forcing a love of books.

Stress affects the female brain very differently from the male brain, especially at puberty. Donna Jackson Nakazawa tells us about the increased rates of anxiety and depression in girls–and what we can do about it– in GIRLS ON THE BRINK.

Parenting neurodivergent kids can come with uncertainty and isolation. Jessica Shaw, host of the podcast "Everyone Gets a Juice Box," shares insights on seeking diagnoses, finding community support, and fostering independence in neurodiverse kids.