
Less Drama More Mama
422 episodes — Page 2 of 9
Ep 369The Freeze Response in Parenting - 369
You're running on empty…and can never seem to refill your tank. You stare at your to-do list…but can't make yourself move. You go quiet when your kids need you most…and then beat yourself up for shutting down. This is the freeze response — your nervous system's way of protecting you when life feels too big or too much. In today's episode, I'm breaking down what the freeze response is, how it shows up in your parenting, and what to do about it. If you ever feel stuck, numb, or overwhelmed, this episode will help you understand what's happening inside you and how to take small steps toward calm, connection, and confidence. https://lessdramamoremama.com/369
Ep 368The Flight Response in Parenting - 368
What if the reason you're so busy all the time isn't actually because you have a lot to do? What if it's your body's way of avoiding the uncomfortable emotions you'd rather not feel? In today's episode, I'm diving into the flight response -- your nervous system's way of saying, "this feels unsafe, so let's escape." You'll learn why you feel compelled to stay busy with household tasks instead of slowing down to connect, and why you suddenly remember an "urgent" task every time you think about having a hard conversation with your teen. Listen now to learn how to get grounded when your flight response kicks in, so you can finally be present for the moments that matter most. https://lessdramamoremama.com/368
Ep 367The Fight Response in Parenting - 367
If you've ever raised your voice and instantly regretted it, felt your whole body tense when your child ignored your request, or snapped at your child for something seemingly small, chances are you've felt the fight response in action. Those moments can leave you questioning yourself as a mom, when in reality, your nervous system is simply trying to protect you. Building on last week's overview of the nervous system, part two of my From Protection to Connection series dives into what the fight response actually looks like in parenting. Spoiler: it's not just the big blow-ups. By the end, you'll be able to recognize fight patterns for what they are – automatic responses in your body, not a personal failing. That awareness alone can give you the space to respond with more calm and connection in the future. https://lessdramamoremama.com/367
Ep 366How Your Nervous System Shapes Your Parenting - 366
Back-to-school season is here, and for many moms, that means more stress, more rushing, and more moments that push you to your limit. Maybe you've found yourself yelling, shutting down, or saying yes when you really wanted to say no and then thinking, "Why do I keep doing this? I know better!" These reactions aren't personal failings. More often than not, they're your nervous system slipping into survival mode without you even realizing it. And many of those responses were wired into your nervous system in childhood, when you first learned what it took to feel safe. This episode will show you that when you start noticing what's happening inside your body in those heated moments, you take the first step toward changing what happens inside your home. https://lessdramamoremama.com/366
Ep 365It's Okay Not to Love Every Moment of Motherhood with Dr. Margo Lowy - 365
"Mothering is messy and interrupted and loving." "Motherhood is about making mistakes and repairing them. And that's how we learn." "As moms, we do our best. We make it up as we go along and we muddle through." Those are some of the things Dr. Margo Lowy wishes someone had told her earlier in her parenting, and it's exactly what she shares in this week's episode of the podcast. Dr. Lowy is a psychotherapist and the author of Maternal Ambivalence: The Loving Moments & Bitter Truths of Motherhood. She holds a PhD from the University of New South Wales, where she researched maternal ambivalence, and she's a columnist for Psychology Today. In our conversation, we discussed the parts of motherhood no one likes to talk about... the moments when you don't feel loving, when your kid is being a "little sh*t," and you wonder if you're even cut out for this. Dr. Lowy brings compassion and clarity to the feelings so many moms carry quietly, and helps you see them not as failures, but as part of the full, human experience of being a mom. Tune in for this compassionate, grounded insight that every mom needs to hear. https://lessdramamoremama.com/365
Ep 364Summer Recap and Insights to Support Your Parenting - 364
As my summer hiatus comes to an end, I've been reflecting on how I spent my time during the past two months and the insights I gained. I'm excited to share what I've learned with you and how it can help you show up as a more grounded, present mom. In today's episode, I'm giving you a recap of my summer, including the lessons that can support you in your parenting and emotional well-being as you head into the new school year. https://lessdramamoremama.com/364
Ep 363Getting Out of a Funk: Summer Playback Series - 363
Recently, I found myself crying over things that normally wouldn't faze me, running on broken sleep, dragging through the day, and binge-watching TV more than I'd like to admit. Everything seemed heavier than usual. I realized I was in a funk. I know I'm not the only mom going through this right now, especially as the slower pace of summer starts to shift and everything feels a little "off." After listening to this episode from 2020, I took my own advice and it helped me feel more in control, more grounded, and less stuck. If you're feeling blah, unmotivated, or just not yourself lately, I hope it helps you, too. Please note: If you're feeling anxious, depressed, or are considering suicide, please get professional help. This podcast is not a substitute for personal treatment by a mental health care provider. Remember — you are not alone. Others are here to help you get through this difficult time. Hotlines that are available 24/7: The National Suicide Prevention Hotline 800-273-8255 Parental Stress Hotline – Help for Parents 800-632-8188 Alcohol & Drug Abuse Hotline 800-729-6686 National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-7233 https://lessdramamoremama.com/363
Ep 362Favorites and Fairness: Summer Playback Series - 362
Have you ever heard one of your kids say, "You love them more than me"? It's easy to dismiss, but sometimes those comments open the door to a deeper reflection: Is there a pattern here I haven't noticed? This week on the podcast, I'm bringing back an episode that explores the uncomfortable (but important) question: Do I have a favorite child? You'll hear how favoritism shows up in everyday parenting, why your thoughts matter more than you might think, and how your kids' perception of favoritism can impact your relationship with them. https://lessdramamoremama.com/362
Ep 361What's Your Story: Summer Playback Series - 361
Last week while venting to a friend about her day, my mom caught herself telling a negative, victimy story. When she realized this, she switched to talking about what went well that day instead, and completely shifted her mood. This reminded me about how the stories we tell ourselves matter. They shape how we feel and how we show up as moms. If you're telling yourself, "I can't stop yelling," "Nothing's working," or "I'm failing as a mom," you don't have to stay stuck in that story. You have the power to change your story—and today's summer playback episode will show you how. https://lessdramamoremama.com/361
Ep 360Kids, Cursing, and WTF to Do About It: Summer Playback Series - 360
Wondering how to handle it when your kid curses for the first (or next) time? Swearing can stir up a lot of emotions for moms, including shame, anger, worry, and embarrassment. Whether it's your 6-year-old testing limits or your teen trying to sound cool, how you respond matters more than the fact that they used a four-letter word. In this episode, I talk about why kids swear, how to stay calm when it happens, and what kinds of consequences (if any) actually help. You'll also hear stories from my own life and coaching practice, along with a surprising research study about cursing and pain tolerance that might shift your perspective. It's the kind of episode that will help you stay calm the next time an f-bomb drops—whether it comes from your kid or slips out of your own mouth. https://lessdramamoremama.com/360
Ep 359Peace and Quiet: Summer Playback Series - 359
Have you ever felt like silence is a luxury you can't have? Or when you finally get it, it feels uncomfortable? If quietness feels unsettling instead of relaxing for you, you're not alone. When the noise stops, your brain scrambles to fill the gap, and your body can tense up or feel restless. The good news is, quiet time is one of the simplest ways to lower stress and feel calmer, and you don't need a silent house or hours of meditation to get it. If sitting in silence feels impossible, this episode is exactly what you need. Your body can learn to feel safe in the quiet — and the peace you get in return is worth it. https://lessdramamoremama.com/359
Ep 358"I Want My Mommy": Summer Playback Series - 358
This year, Dalia went straight from school to camp with no break, and the stress of that transition came out in some pretty big emotions. Two nights before she left, she came into my room crying, saying how much she was going to miss me and didn't want to go. Hearing her say those words tugged at every protective instinct I have. So I pressed play on this old episode to remind myself exactly why giving her this experience is so important — and how to stay steady, even when her anxiety made me question whether I was doing the right thing. If you've ever struggled when your child feels anxious or says "I want my mommy!" (whether they're four or twenty-four), this replay will help you trust their resilience (and yours!) and keep the long view in mind. https://lessdramamoremama.com/358
Ep 357The 90-Second Rule: Summer Playback Series - 357
If you've ever thought that fully allowing a big emotion like anger, fear, or grief might swallow you whole… ...or that if you let yourself really go there, you'd lose control, fall apart, or not be able to come back… ...this episode will offer a fresh perspective. In this week's summer playback, I'm sharing a practical and powerful tool I teach moms to help them manage their emotions in a healthy way: the 90-second rule. When you understand what's really happening in your body during those intense emotional moments, you stop bracing against them. You stop resisting and start expanding your ability to be with what you feel without being overtaken by it. That's what helps you build emotional resilience and helps you stay calm and present with your kids when they're having big feelings, too. https://lessdramamoremama.com/357
Ep 356How to Feel a Feeling: Summer Playback Series - 356
What if every emotion—anxiety, anger, overwhelm—was like an unexpected guest knocking at your front door? You could pretend you're not home and hope it goes away (that's avoiding). You could yank the door open and yell at it to leave (that's reacting). Or you could open the door just a crack and try to hold it shut while the guest pushes to get in (that's resisting). But there's another option that most moms were never taught. You could simply let the emotion in. Offer it a seat. Sit with it for a little while and give it a chance to be seen and heard. When it's had that moment of recognition, it'll get up, say "Thanks for seeing me," and leave on its own. Being able to allow emotions is one of the most powerful skills you can learn, not just for your own emotional well-being, but so you can model and teach it to your kids, too. This episode walks you through four common ways people manage emotions and the one that actually helps you stay calm, present, and in control. It's the first in my 2025 Summer Playback Series, and it's just as relevant now as when it first aired. https://lessdramamoremama.com/356
Ep 355You Changed Your Mindset, So Why Are You Still Losing Your Mind? - 355
You've done the thought work. You've challenged old beliefs. You know your child isn't trying to make your life harder, but you still lose it, shut down, and spiral into guilt. This week's podcast episode explains why that happens, and what you can do when mindset work isn't enough on its own. I'm introducing something I've been studying and integrating into my coaching lately: Somatic Experiencing, a body-based approach that helps you understand and work with your nervous system. It's making a noticeable difference for my clients—and for me. If you've ever felt like there's a gap between what you know and how you actually react, this episode will help you bridge it. https://lessdramamoremama.com/355
Summer Sibling Fights and How to Handle Them – 354
Summer often means more sibling fights, which can mean more stress for you. With school out and everyone under the same roof, it's easy to get pulled into constant squabbles and feel like you're always playing referee. In this episode, I'm talking about why kids tend to fight more in summer, what's really going on beneath the surface, and how to stay grounded when the tension rises. You'll learn how to respond in ways that support your kids' emotional development and your own peace of mind. If you're craving fewer power struggles and more calm this summer, this is for you. https://lessdramamoremama.com/354
Ep 353Shifting Gears From School to Summer - 353
There's a pattern I see every year around this time. Kids feel stressed about the upcoming shift from school to summer, but they don't always say they're stressed. Instead, they act it out. The clinginess, meltdowns, and defiance are signs that their nervous systems are trying to manage a big internal shift. And moms often take that stress on as their own, trying to prevent problems before they happen and keep everyone happy. They feel like they're already running on empty before summer even begins. In this week's episode, I'm sharing how to shift from school to summer without spinning out, and how I'm handling things in my own home, too. https://lessdramamoremama.com/353
Ep 352Five Questions to Ask Yourself This Mother's Day - 352
On Mother's Day (and really, any day), it's easy to get caught up in how everyone else sees you as a mom. What if, this year, you took a few minutes to see yourself? In today's episode, I'm sharing five simple, meaningful questions to help you reflect on how you're showing up, what's working in your parenting, and what you want more of. It's a chance to reconnect with the kind of mom you want to be. Whether Mother's Day feels joyful, complicated, or somewhere in between, these questions offer a way to see yourself—and your motherhood—with more clarity and compassion. https://lessdramamoremama.com/352
Ep 351Kids Today: Why Every Generation Thinks They're Getting Worse (And Why They're Wrong) - 351
Remember rolling your eyes when your parents complained about your music or fashion choices? Now you find yourself sighing about your child's screen time or social media habits. The "kids today" worry is as old as parenting itself, and every generation has been convinced the next one is somehow falling short or headed for disaster. In this episode, I'll show you why reframing this historical perspective might completely change how you view your own children's generation and your parenting, too. https://lessdramamoremama.com/351
Ep 350The Myth of "I Turned Out Fine" - 350
We don't often hear people say, "I adapted well to harsh discipline as a child. I learned how to stay small, quiet, and agreeable." Instead, they say, "I turned out fine." But what does "fine" really mean? In this episode, I'm unpacking the myth of "I turned out fine"—the phrase so many parents lean on to justify repeating what was done to them when they were kids. This episode might challenge you. And that's the point. Because we're not here to settle for raising kids who turn out "fine." We're here to raise adults who thrive. https://lessdramamoremama.com/350
Ep 349From Self-Doubt to Parenting with Confidence: Victoria's Success Story - 349
After her separation, my client Victoria felt lost in her parenting. She didn't trust her parenting decisions and second-guessed everything. She thought she needed to learn parenting "rules." What she really needed was to connect with her own wisdom. In this week's episode, Victoria opens up about her experience in the Damn Good Mama program and how it helped her find her footing again. If you've ever felt stuck between "I think I'm a good mom" and "Why do I still feel so unsure?" — this is an episode you'll want to hear. https://lessdramamoremama.com/349
Ep 348Because You Can: Practicing Presence With Your Kids - 348
I recently sat in the back of a church watching two young girls say goodbye to their mother. As I listened to the stories shared about her life, I was struck by what people remembered most - the small gestures, the everyday presence, and the little ways she showed up consistently for those she loved. It made me think about how I'm showing up for my own children, and what they'll remember years from now. Today's episode isn't about adding more to your already full plate, but a reminder to stop rushing through the moments you'll later wish you'd slowed down for. I don't know how many bedtime stories, school lunches, or "watch this, Mom!" moments you'll get. But I do know that you have the chance to be present today and show up fully for the ones you love. Not because you should, but simply because you can. https://lessdramamoremama.com/348
Ep 347April Fools' Day Special: Laughing With Your Kids, Not At Them - 347
I love a good laugh. The right kind of joke at the right time can shift the energy in a room, lighten a heavy moment, and bring families closer. But there's another side to humor that doesn't get talked about as much. Like when your kid suddenly goes quiet after you make a joke. Or when someone laughs at them instead of with them. This week's episode is one I think every parent should hear—especially today, on April Fools' Day. https://lessdramamoremama.com/347
Ep 346Spring Cleaning Your Parenting Mindset - 346
Every Spring, moms turn their attention to their closets and drawers, sorting through clothes that no longer fit and items that have lost their purpose. But the heaviest clutter you carry isn't in your home at all. It's in your mind! In this week's episode, inspired by the first signs of Spring during my recent trip to Connecticut, I'm sharing why now is the perfect time to de-clutter not just your home, but your entire approach to motherhood. I'll help you toss out your old, outdated thoughts and beliefs to create more mental space for patience, joy, and connection. And if you'd like to tackle some of your mental clutter together, join me this Friday at noon Eastern for an open coaching call on Zoom at the link in the show notes. https://lessdramamoremama.com/346
Ep 345Boosting Your Metabolism and Getting Strong as a Mother with Coach Jo - 345
A few years ago, I thought I was doing everything right for my health. I took Barre classes several times a week, ate little to no sugar or flour, and practiced intermittent fasting daily. But my stomach growled every night, and I felt exhausted much of the time, which wasn't ideal for keeping up with my kids. Then I joined Couture Fitness & Lifestyle Coaching and was shocked when Coach Jo told me I had been severely under-eating. I gradually increased my calories to nearly 2100 a day (far more than the 1200-1300 I had been consuming), focused on getting a minimum of 130g of protein daily, and introduced real strength training with weights that actually challenged me. To my amazement, I lost weight while eating MORE food and gaining muscle. But more importantly, I felt stronger, more confident, more energetic, and better able to be fully present with my kids. I've even started to enjoy the challenge of lifting heavy and the satisfaction of getting stronger each week. In this episode, I chat with Coach Jo, who transformed her own body in her 40's and now helps women optimize their metabolism and improve their overall health. As she shares in our conversation, "It's not too late, and you're NEVER too old." Her story proves that with the right approach to nutrition and exercise, you can stop "running on fumes" and start feeling truly strong as a mother—at any age. https://lessdramamoremama.com/345
Ep 344The 3 Biggest Mistakes That Make Power Struggles Worse (And What to Do Instead) – 344
You might be familiar with the story I've shared on my podcast and in my book about the morning my 3-year-old refused to get dressed for camp. It became a turning point in my life. As she hid under the dining room table, something in me snapped. With my sister watching in stunned silence, I lost complete control—yelling, threatening, and eventually spanking my daughter in a rage I didn't recognize. The shame and guilt that followed were overwhelming, but they became the catalyst for profound change. That rock-bottom moment led me through therapy, coaching, countless parenting books, and additional professional training that transformed not just how I parent, but my entire approach to life. I'm sharing this because in today's episode, I reveal the three biggest mistakes that make power struggles worse and what to do instead. If you're locked in daily battles with your kids, this might be exactly what you need to hear right now. https://lessdramamoremama.com/344
Ep 343The Truth About Parenting Every Mom Needs to Hear - 343
Parenting isn't a puzzle you can solve. There's no secret formula that guarantees everything will go smoothly no matter how many parenting books you read, how much patience you practice, or how hard you try. When things don't go as planned, it doesn't mean you're failing. It just means you're a human raising other humans. And that can be pretty messy! Tune into this episode to find out what every parent needs to hear—especially on the days when nothing seems to go right. https://lessdramamoremama.com/343
Ep 342Power Struggles Explained: Why Kids Push Back and What to Do - 342
You ask your child to turn off their iPad and get ready to leave the house, but instead of action, you get a heavy, dramatic exhale that says, "Do I have to?" You ask again, this time firmer. Nothing. And just like that, what should've been a simple request turns into a full-blown power struggle. In this week's episode, I'm breaking down what's really going on beneath those exhausting battles and sharing simple strategies to help you shift the dynamic without losing your authority (or your sanity). Because it's not about the shoes, the iPad, or leaving the house. And it's definitely not just about defiance. Something deeper is happening in these moments, and once you understand it, you can stop getting stuck in the same frustrating cycle. If you're done with endless back-and-forth arguments, and ready for less resistance and more connection, this episode will show you how to break the cycle without yelling, nagging, or frustration. https://lessdramamoremama.com/342
Ep 341How to Help Kids Stop Blaming and Start Taking Responsibility - 341
"It wasn't me!" "He started it!" "She made me do it!" Have your kids ever said these blame-shifting phrases? While hearing them might drive you crazy, they actually reveal important things about your child's developing mind and emotional world. In this episode, I explore why kids blame others and how to help them develop the skills to take responsibility more often. It's packed with practical strategies you can start using today. https://lessdramamoremama.com/341
Ep 3407 Lessons About Love to Teach Your Kids - 340
What if some of the most important lessons about love aren't the ones we think to teach our kids? In this episode, I'm sharing seven essential truths about love—lessons that will shape the way your kids understand relationships, connection, and even their own self-worth. Oh, and these lessons aren't only for them. You might take away something meaningful, too! https://lessdramamoremama.com/340
Ep 339Wait-and-See Parenting: When Doing Nothing Is the Best Move - 339
Wait-and-see parenting can feel risky. You see your child struggling—whether it's with a tricky friendship, a frustrating homework assignment, or a new routine—and every instinct tells you to step in. But sometimes, doing nothing is actually the best move. Recently, my home phone stopped working for a couple of weeks and my home alarm system kept glitching. I figured I'd need to call someone to fix it, but...I just never got around to it. Then, out of nowhere, everything started working again. No explanation. No intervention. It made me realize how often we rush to fix things in our kids' lives when sometimes, things just need a little time to sort themselves out. But how do you know when to step in and when to let things unfold? Tune in to this episode to find out! https://lessdramamoremama.com/339
Ep 338Beyond Small Talk: Building Meaningful Mom Friendships - 338
Motherhood can feel surprisingly lonely sometimes, even when you're constantly surrounded by people. You might exchange smiles with other moms at school drop-off, make small talk at soccer practice, and keep up with the endless group texts. But when you're having a hard day, who's your go-to? Who do you turn to when you need someone who truly gets you—no judgment, no pretense, just real support? In this episode, I'm diving into why so many moms feel isolated and what it takes to find the kind of friendships that make life better. By the way, if there's a mom you've been wanting to get to know better, why not forward this to her? It could be the perfect conversation starter—and maybe even the beginning of a deeper connection. https://lessdramamoremama.com/338
Ep 337Letting Go of Agendas: Creating Space for Your Kids to Discover Who They're Meant to Be - 337
Sometimes the hardest part of parenting is stepping back and letting your child's path unfold naturally. This week's episode dives into those moments when your kids surprise you - whether it's quitting a beloved sport, choosing an unexpected career path, or exploring their identity in ways you never anticipated. Through real stories (including my own), we explore how to really be there for your kids as they figure out who they are. https://lessdramamoremama.com/337
Ep 336Are You a Silently Struggling Mom? You Don't Have to Do It Alone - 336
Do you ever wonder, "Is this just how it is for moms?" The endless juggling act, the invisible load, the constant pressure to hold it all together without ever asking for help. What if it didn't have to feel so hard? In this week's podcast, I'm shining a light on on the silent struggles so many moms experience and how you can start to lighten your load. Listen now and discover what's possible when you stop struggling in silence.
Ep 335Why Big Changes Don't Stick (And What Actually Works for Moms) - 335
January is here, and with it, the endless push for big, bold resolutions: de-cluttering half your house, cutting out every "bad" food, swearing off yelling forever. It all sounds so promising, doesn't it? Unfortunately, most of these massive changes don't last. In fact, the research shows they almost never do. In this week's episode, I'm sharing why your brain resists those dramatic overhauls and what actually works to create lasting change. https://lessdramamoremama.com/335
Ep 334The Top 10 Episodes of 2024 - 334
Welcome to the final episode of Less Drama More Mama for 2024! In today's episode, we're doing something special by counting down the top 10 episodes of the year, based on the ones that resonated most with you, my amazing listeners. These are the episodes you downloaded and loved the most, and I'm excited to take a look back at them as we head into the new year. If you missed any of these impactful episodes (or want to listen to them again), you'll find the links in today's show notes. Thank you for listening to the show this year. I'd be so grateful if you'd leave an honest review in Apple Podcasts and share your favorite episode with a mama friend. Wishing you a happy and healthy start to 2025! https://lessdramamoremama.com/334
Ep 333A Powerful Year-End Ritual for Creating Your Best Mom Year Yet - 333
How do you feel about your parenting as you look back on 2024? Are there changes you've been wanting to make but haven't known where to start? What if this was the year you actually made those parenting changes stick? What would it mean to look back on 2025 and feel like you had your best mom year yet? In this week's episode, I'm sharing the year-end reflection ritual that's helping moms in my group program recognize their progress and set meaningful intentions for the new year. Listen to episode 333 (an angel number that represents growth!) and start 2025 off right! https://lessdramamoremama.com/333
Ep 332How to Create a Meaningful Holiday Season - 332
Your to-do list is growing, the calendar is filling up, and that familiar holiday anxiety is starting to creep in. You want this season to be special for your family, but somehow it always ends up feeling more exhausting than magical. In this week's podcast episode, I share a different approach to the holidays - one that lets you create meaningful moments without running yourself ragged. Because what your family really wants is you, present and enjoying the season alongside them. https://lessdramamoremama.com/332
Ep 331How to Repair Your Relationship with Your Kids After a Rupture - 331
It's easy to assume a quick apology will fix things after a relationship rupture with your child, but real repair requires more. In today's episode, I'm walking you through a powerful tool I created to help you repair your relationships and turn them into even stronger bonds. It's called the LOVE formula and it's simple + effective. If you've ever felt like your relationship with your child needs healing, this episode is for you. Tune in to hear how you can apply this simple tool to create lasting, meaningful relationship with your kids. https://lessdramamoremama.com/331
Ep 330Parents in Recovery with Sarah Benton - 330
Sarah Benton had all the markers of success - great grades, active social life, thriving career. From the outside, no one would have guessed she was struggling with alcohol, a pattern she now recognizes as "high-functioning alcoholism." In this honest and eye-opening conversation, Sarah opens up about her 20-year journey in sobriety, including the hard truth that getting sober was just the beginning of the real work, and shares how having a child completely transformed her recovery experience. Through her new book "Parents in Recovery," she brings fresh insights about the complex relationship between addiction, parenting, and finding your way through both. Listen now for a real take on what it means to parent and grow.
Ep 329Transform Holiday Family Drama into Peaceful Gatherings - 329
Family gatherings are approaching, and many moms are already dreading the unsolicited advice, critical comments, sibling rivalry, and other difficult moments headed their way. In this week's episode, I'm sharing powerful strategies to create more peaceful interactions - both for you and your kids. Skip the typical "just ignore them" or "take deep breaths" advice. The approaches in this episode work even with your most challenging family dynamics. Ready to experience more peaceful family gatherings? Listen now! https://lessdramamoremama.com/329
Ep 328How to Transform Screen Time Conflict into Family Connection with Velma Gentzsch - 328
What if your fears about screen time and video games are holding you back from deeper family connections? In today's episode, I sit down with certified Hand in Hand parenting instructor, Velma Gentzsch, who went from video game skeptic to streaming on Twitch. Her journey reveals how video games can become a powerful tool for building trust, resilience, and family bonds. Along the way, she discovered these games were teaching her son the very skills she worried he'd miss: negotiation, problem-solving, persistence, and even conflict resolution. Tune in to transform gaming from a source of family conflict into an opportunity for connection! https://lessdramamoremama.com/328
Ep 327Can AI Help with Parenting? - 327
Between ChatGPT doing homework and AI-generated videos everywhere, it's tempting to see AI as just another parenting worry. But after testing it on three common family challenges, I discovered it might actually help us focus on what matters most: connecting with our kids. In this week's episode, I'm sharing my real-world experiment with AI as a parenting tool. Tune in to learn how it can handle the logistics while you create meaningful moments with your family. https://lessdramamoremama.com/327
Ep 326Healing Through Your Mother-Daughter Relationship with Ashleigh Sinclaire - 326
What if the key to deepening your mother-daughter relationship begins with you? When Ashleigh Sinclaire became her mother's sole caregiver overnight, she discovered that our most fundamental relationship can transform through an unexpected path. In this week's moving episode, she shares how four extraordinary years caring for her mother revealed that the mother-daughter relationship lives within us, not between us. This episode will touch your heart and possibly transform how you see your relationship with your mother - or your daughter. https://lessdramamoremama.com/326
Ep 325Supporting Your Scared Child Beyond 'Don't Be Afraid' - 325
You know that gut-wrenching feeling when your child is scared? Whether it's a toddler crying about monsters under the bed or a teenager having a panic attack about their future - seeing our kids afraid triggers something primal in us. We want to fix it, protect them, make the scary thing go away. But sometimes our own "stuff" gets in the way of truly supporting them. In this week's episode, we explore how parents' own experiences and beliefs about fear can cloud their judgment when helping scared kids. Through real examples, we'll look at what actually helps kids develop a healthy relationship with fear. Tune in, because these insights might transform your next challenging moment with your scared child. https://lessdramamoremama.com/325
Ep 324Slow Dating After Divorce with Paige Dempsey - 324
Balancing motherhood and dating after divorce is a challenge many moms face. It's an experience that often leaves women with more questions than answers, which is why I'm so excited about today's episode. Certified life and relationship coach, Paige Dempsey, and I talk about what she calls "slow dating" after divorce. This approach is about more than just taking things slow; it's about being intentional and self-aware in your dating journey. We discuss the importance of defining standards and knowing the qualities you want in a partner before you start dating, where to meet potential partners, how to talk to your kids about dating, and lots more. Grab your favorite beverage, pop in your earbuds, and tune in now! https://lessdramamoremama.com/324
Ep 323Fabulous at 50 and Parenting as We Age - 323
As I celebrate half a century of life, I'm amazed at how much parenting has changed since I first became a mom. The tiny hands I once held now belong to young adults, and our conversations have evolved from "eat your vegetables" to discussions about their hopes and dreams for the future. This milestone birthday got me thinking: How do we stay connected with our kids as we all grow older? This week, I'm sharing insights that have deepened my relationships with my daughters over the years. Whether you're juggling sippy cups and planning play dates or teaching your teen to drive and fill out college applications, there's something in this episode for you. Listen now and let's celebrate growing older and closer to our kids together! https://lessdramamoremama.com/323
Ep 322Forgiving Your Parents For Your Own Sake - 322
Holding onto resentment towards your parents is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die. In this week's episode, we explore how forgiving your parents might be the self-care you never knew you needed. Join me as I draw from my own experience, present scientific research, and offer practical strategies for navigating the process of forgiveness. You'll discover how forgiving your parents can liberate you from emotional burdens, enhance your health, and even improve your own parenting. https://lessdramamoremama.com/322
Ep 321Navigating Life's Toughest Decisions: A Conversation with Amanda Kingsley - 321
That knot in your stomach when facing a life-changing decision? It's universal. This week, I sit down with life coach Amanda Kingsley for a raw and honest conversation about navigating life's toughest choices. Amanda opens up about her personal abortion experience and shares powerful insights on making difficult decisions while minimizing suffering. Regardless of your political stance, this episode offers valuable insights on decision-making and personal growth that can benefit everyone. https://lessdramamoremama.com/321
Ep 320Parenting Second Chances and Do-Overs - 320
Mistakes in parenting don't define you. How you handle them does. We've all had moments as parents when we wish we could hit rewind and try again. That's why in this week's episode, we're unpacking the often-overlooked superpower of second chances and do-overs in parenting. Join me to transform those "I wish I hadn't said that" moments into opportunities for growth and deeper connection with your kids. You'll learn practical strategies to create your own parenting rewind button and use it effectively. https://lessdramamoremama.com/320