We’re Doing Great | A Podcast for Imperfect Parents by Pok Pok

What happens when you stop directing your child's play and simply let them lead? In this episode, Esther sits down solo with multidisciplinary artist and mom Mills Brown to explore the deep, sometimes surprising, places where play, creativity, and parenthood overlap. You'll hear about Mills's sensory play sessions for children as young as six months at Modern Art Oxford, her upcoming solo exhibition, and the Montessori philosophy that shapes everything she does, including why the most powerful thing you can do in a play environment is step back and say nothing at all. Whether you've been wondering how to nurture your own creativity or simply how to make more space for truly free, open-ended play at home, this conversation is warm, curious, and full of gentle reminders that you're doing better than you think. Mills Brown is a multidisciplinary artist whose work lives at the intersection of painting, illustration, animation, and sculpture, with play as the thread that ties it all together. She's the Producer of Early Years and Young People at Modern Art Oxford, where she creates sensory play experiences for children as young as six months old, and is the creator of the upcoming immersive solo exhibition Where We Overlap. She's also a mom to an 18-month-old, which means her studio, her gallery, and her living room all tend to blur into one big creative experiment. What you’ll learn in this episode: (00:01:57) How Mills Brown creates sensory play sessions for children as young as six months at Modern Art Oxford's Make Play program, using themes from current gallery exhibitions as a jumping-off point for open-ended exploration. (00:05:03) Why the Montessori concept of the "prepared environment" is one of the most powerful tools any parent or educator can use, and why the adult's most important work often happens before the child even enters the room. (00:07:12) Why Montessori-inspired parenting is genuinely accessible to every family, regardless of income, and why the $200 Montessori shelf is really just a low shelf a child can reach. (00:08:23) Why children almost never need adults to tell them how to play, and how learning to step back, observe, and say less can be one of the most supportive things a parent can do. (00:14:35) How the time constraints of early parenthood can actually push creative people to focus more deeply and get more done than ever before. (00:20:28) Why prioritizing unstructured play time as seriously as focused work is a vital investment in your child's development. Thank you to Mills Brown for being on our show! Learn more about Mills at https://www.millsbrownart.com/ or by following her Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/mills_brown_ Subscribe and follow the "We’re Doing Great" podcast by Melissa Cash, Esther Huybreghts, and the Pok Pok team: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1855989506 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ItWi8W0bYFS6yplP3tQii * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WereDoingGreatPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weredoinggreatpod/ * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@weredoinggreatpod We’re Doing Great is the parenting podcast that helps you navigate the hard stuff, savor the good stuff, and remember you’re not alone. Hosts and moms, Melissa Cash and Esther Huybreghts, team up with experts to share practical guidance on how to stay anchored when the waters get rough. Join us on the frontlines of modern parenting as we explore what it really means to be good at the hardest job on earth. Pok Pok is on a mission to help raise the next generation of creative thinkers through non-addictive, digital tools that help them think outside the box and learn through play. Learn more about Pok Pok: https://playpokpok.com. Follow Pok Pok on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@studiopokpok?sub_confirmation=1 This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/

How much of your parenting anxiety is influenced by what you read and see online? Melissa Cash and Esther Huybreghts sit down with Vanessa Grant to explore how parenting has become something you do in public. They unpack the pressure created by media, social platforms, and endless advice, and how it affects the way you show up for your child. You will walk away with permission to tune out the noise and trust your instincts more. Vanessa Grant is the editor in chief of Today’s Parent, where she blends journalism, data, and real parent needs to shape modern parenting conversations. What you’ll learn in this episode: (00:01:18) How parenting media is shaped by search data, SEO, and what parents are actively looking for online. (00:02:10) How editorial teams balance quick, practical answers with deeper, more thoughtful storytelling. (00:03:28) How parenting content is structured to fit shorter attention spans while still delivering useful information. (00:04:14) The tension between creating content that performs well and content that feels responsible to publish. (00:05:24) Why hopeful parenting content often performs better than fear based messaging. (00:06:19) How parenting publications maintain trust through science backed, honest, and non controversial content. (00:12:07) Why parenting trends like gentle parenting keep resurfacing and how judgment fuels these debates. (00:18:18) Why building trust, connection, and belonging with your child matters more than avoiding every possible risk. Thank you to Vanessa Grant for being on our show! Learn more about Vanessa and Today's Parent: https://www.todaysparent.com/ Subscribe and follow the "We’re Doing Great" podcast by Melissa Cash, Esther Huybreghts, and the Pok Pok team: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1855989506 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ItWi8W0bYFS6yplP3tQii * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WereDoingGreatPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weredoinggreatpod/ * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@weredoinggreatpod We’re Doing Great is the parenting podcast that helps you navigate the hard stuff, savor the good stuff, and remember you’re not alone. Hosts and moms, Melissa Cash and Esther Huybreghts, team up with experts to share practical guidance on how to stay anchored when the waters get rough. Join us on the frontlines of modern parenting as we explore what it really means to be good at the hardest job on earth. Pok Pok is on a mission to help raise the next generation of creative thinkers through non-addictive, digital tools that help them think outside the box and learn through play. Learn more about Pok Pok: https://playpokpok.com. Follow Pok Pok on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@studiopokpok?sub_confirmation=1 This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/

Are you carrying invisible responsibilities that no one else even realizes exist? If your brain feels like it has forty tabs open at once, this episode will feel painfully familiar in the best possible way. Melissa and Esther have an honest, funny, and thoughtful conversation about the invisible labor of parenting, the resentment that can build around it, and the ways parents sometimes add pressure to their own plates. You will walk away with a sharper way to think about mental load, more compassion for yourself, and a few simple ideas for talking about it at home. What you’ll learn in this episode: 00:01:16 You will hear how quickly parenting mental load builds when work, sick kids, travel, and household logistics collide. 00:02:44 You will learn why feeling recognized as a parent is often less about praise and more about wanting your invisible effort to be seen. 00:03:48 You will hear a real-life example of what mental load actually sounds like in a parent’s head, from meal prep and daycare tasks to email, sports signups, and travel planning. 00:05:36 You will learn how parents often decide which responsibilities to drop first when there are simply too many balls in the air. 00:09:43 You will hear a thoughtful discussion about when it is worth going the extra mile for your kids and when good enough may actually be enough. 00:14:34 You will learn why differences in parenting style can create tension, especially when one parent plans ahead and the other solves problems later. 00:18:27 You will hear how assigning broader household categories, like meals or laundry, can reduce resentment and create a more functional division of labor. 00:24:52 You will learn a simple percentage check-in method that can help you and your partner communicate your mental bandwidth without turning overwhelm into a competition. Subscribe and follow the "We’re Doing Great" podcast by Melissa Cash, Esther Huybreghts, and the Pok Pok team: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1855989506 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ItWi8W0bYFS6yplP3tQii * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WereDoingGreatPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weredoinggreatpod/ * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@weredoinggreatpod We’re Doing Great is the parenting podcast that helps you navigate the hard stuff, savor the good stuff, and remember you’re not alone. Hosts and moms, Melissa Cash and Esther Huybreghts, team up with experts to share practical guidance on how to stay anchored when the waters get rough. Join us on the frontlines of modern parenting as we explore what it really means to be good at the hardest job on earth. Pok Pok is on a mission to help raise the next generation of creative thinkers through non-addictive, digital tools that help them think outside the box and learn through play. Learn more about Pok Pok: https://playpokpok.com. Follow Pok Pok on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@studiopokpok?sub_confirmation=1 This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/

Can you love your kids deeply and still wonder what life without them would have looked like? This episode is an honest, funny, and unexpectedly deep conversation about what motherhood asks of you and what it gives back. You will hear Melissa and Esther talk through the daily chaos of raising young kids, the tension between work and family, and the quiet questions many parents carry but rarely say out loud. If you have ever wondered whether you are handling the mess, the guilt, and the love of parenting “right,” this conversation will feel both comforting and refreshingly real. What you’ll learn in this episode: (00:01:49) How an everyday parenting emergency can quickly turn into an unexpected teaching moment about bodies, boundaries, and consent. (00:08:36) Why even the most well-intentioned parent can start the day aiming for patience and still lose their cool during the morning routine. (00:11:46) How parents wrestle with the tradeoffs between work, time, freedom, and raising children. (00:12:53) What it can feel like to become a parent young and suddenly realize that life has changed in ways no one can fully prepare you for. (00:14:08) Why some parents who waited for career reasons still find themselves wishing they had started having kids sooner. (00:17:29) How to hold two truths at once: loving your children deeply while still wondering what a different life path might have looked like. (00:19:57) What can shape the decision to stop at two children, especially when work, mental health, and family logistics all matter. (00:25:59) How leaving for work travel in a healthy, grounded way can strengthen both your parenting confidence and your family’s sense of security. Subscribe and follow the "We’re Doing Great" podcast by Melissa Cash, Esther Huybreghts, and the Pok Pok team: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1855989506 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ItWi8W0bYFS6yplP3tQii * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WereDoingGreatPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weredoinggreatpod/ * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@weredoinggreatpod We’re Doing Great is the parenting podcast that helps you navigate the hard stuff, savor the good stuff, and remember you’re not alone. Hosts and moms, Melissa Cash and Esther Huybreghts, team up with experts to share practical guidance on how to stay anchored when the waters get rough. Join us on the frontlines of modern parenting as we explore what it really means to be good at the hardest job on earth. Pok Pok is on a mission to help raise the next generation of creative thinkers through non-addictive, digital tools that help them think outside the box and learn through play. Learn more about Pok Pok: https://playpokpok.com. Follow Pok Pok on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@studiopokpok?sub_confirmation=1 This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/

Are you parenting with confidence, or parenting with commentary from the entire internet in your head? What happens when you put a 90-year-old great-grandmother, a 60-something mom, and a toddler-raising millennial at the same table and ask them what “being a good parent” actually means? You will hear what motherhood felt like between the 1950s and the 1990s, before Google, before gentle parenting scripts, and before everyone was performing family life online—and you just might walk away feeling lighter about your own. Melissa’s Bubbie, Falia Marcus, and mom, Debbie Cash, join for a three-generation conversation about motherhood, boundaries, and what has changed over time. With decades of lived parenting experience, Debbie and Faila offer perspective on confidence, common sense, and raising kids without constant outside input. Find the Gentle Parenting video mentioned in this episode here: https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSmHBmqgC/ What you’ll learn in this episode: (00:02:09) What early motherhood felt like when no one talked about childbirth or postpartum emotions and you were expected to just figure it out. (00:05:59) How older generations defined being a good mom through stability, consistency, and running a smooth household. (00:08:28) Why modern moms often feel like they are doing everything at once, and how having or lacking a village changes the experience. (00:11:09) How parenting in public and unlimited information can fuel self-doubt even when you are doing a great job. (00:14:07) Why viral gentle parenting scripts can feel unrealistic in real-life moments when safety and boundaries matter. (00:22:31) How technology impacts confidence, boredom, and social development in young kids. Subscribe and follow the "We’re Doing Great" podcast by Melissa Cash, Esther Huybreghts, and the Pok Pok team: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1855989506 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ItWi8W0bYFS6yplP3tQii * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WereDoingGreatPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weredoinggreatpod/ * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@weredoinggreatpod We’re Doing Great is the parenting podcast that helps you navigate the hard stuff, savor the good stuff, and remember you’re not alone. Hosts and moms, Melissa Cash and Esther Huybreghts, team up with experts to share practical guidance on how to stay anchored when the waters get rough. Join us on the frontlines of modern parenting as we explore what it really means to be good at the hardest job on earth. Pok Pok is on a mission to help raise the next generation of creative thinkers through non-addictive, digital tools that help them think outside the box and learn through play. Learn more about Pok Pok: https://playpokpok.com. Follow Pok Pok on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@studiopokpok?sub_confirmation=1 This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/

Could the limits we place on neurodiverse kids, like screen time or alternative learning, actually be the very tools helping neurodiverse children thrive? When it comes to autism awareness advocacy, there is a growing need for understanding, support, and inclusive practices in our society. As more individuals are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), it is crucial that we take the necessary steps to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for neurodiverse individuals. In this episode, you’ll learn how to better support neurodiverse kids, use tools that help them grow and communicate, and create environments where they feel understood and able to thrive. Sara Southard joins Melissa and Esther to share her experience raising an autistic daughter, using technology to support language and regulation, and teaching families and kids to be more inclusive and supportive of neurodiverse children. Sara Southard is a devoted advocate for autism awareness, drawing on her experience as both an elementary educator and a mother to foster understanding and acceptance. What you’ll learn in this episode: (08:46) Why it is important to support and embrace the individuality of neurodiverse children. (10:34) How technology like iPads and TV shows can help children with autism regulate and develop language. (14:37) How we can educate children on inclusivity and support towards individuals with autism. (16:41) Why tailored accommodations in classrooms are crucial for neurodiverse students to thrive. (18:45) Ways to support autism advocacy through social media engagement. Thank you to Sara Southard for being on our show! Learn more about Sara and Amazing Autistic Abby: https://www.amazingautisticabby.com/ Follow Sara on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amazing.autistic.abby/ Shop Amazing Autistic Abby: https://www.amazingautisticabby.com/shop Subscribe and follow the "We’re Doing Great" podcast by Melissa Cash, Esther Huybreghts, and the Pok Pok team: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1855989506 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ItWi8W0bYFS6yplP3tQii * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WereDoingGreatPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weredoinggreatpod/ * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@weredoinggreatpod We’re Doing Great is the parenting podcast that helps you navigate the hard stuff, savor the good stuff, and remember you’re not alone. Hosts and moms Melissa Cash and Esther Huybreghts team up with experts to share practical guidance on staying anchored when the waters get rough. Join us on the frontlines of modern parenting as we explore what it really means to be good at the hardest job on earth. Pok Pok is on a mission to help raise the next generation of creative thinkers through non-addictive, digital tools that help them think outside the box and learn through play. Learn more about Pok Pok: https://playpokpok.com. Follow Pok Pok on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@studiopokpok?sub_confirmation=1 This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/

How can connection lead to more cooperation from your toddlers? Toddlerhood can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be a constant battle. In this episode, you’ll learn how play, connection, and mindset shifts can transform everyday challenges into opportunities for growth. Devon Kuntzman joins Melissa and Esther and shares practical tools to help you navigate tantrums, transitions, and big emotions while building trust and resilience with your child. Devon Kuntzman is the creator of Transforming Toddlerhood, an author, and a trusted guide for parents navigating the toddler years with more connection and confidence. What you’ll learn in this episode: (06:11) Why play is the most underused and powerful parenting tool during toddlerhood. (08:19) How slowing down and engaging in play can actually make daily routines easier. (12:05) How play-based transitions reduce resistance when moving from one activity to another. (16:11) The difference between tantrums and meltdowns and why it matters as kids grow. (18:22) How shifting your mindset helps you respond calmly to emotional outbursts. (19:57) Why staying grounded as a parent is more effective than trying to fix emotions. (25:46) How modeling mistakes and repair teaches kids lifelong emotional skills. (26:44) How to introduce consent and body safety in age-appropriate ways from early childhood. Thank you to Devon Kuntzman for being on our show! Learn more about Devon and Transforming Toddlerhood: https://www.transformingtoddlerhood.com/ Follow Devon on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/transformingtoddlerhood/ Get Devon’s book, Transforming Toddlerhood: How to Handle Tantrums, End Power Struggles, and Raise Resilient Kids, Without Losing Your Mind: https://www.transformingtoddlerhood.com/book/ Subscribe and follow the "We’re Doing Great" podcast by Melissa Cash, Esther Huybreghts, and the Pok Pok team: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1855989506 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ItWi8W0bYFS6yplP3tQii * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WereDoingGreatPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weredoinggreatpod/ * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@weredoinggreatpod We’re Doing Great is the parenting podcast that helps you navigate the hard stuff, savor the good stuff, and remember you’re not alone. Hosts and moms, Melissa Cash and Esther Huybreghts, team up with experts to share practical guidance on how to stay anchored when the waters get rough. Join us on the frontlines of modern parenting as we explore what it really means to be good at the hardest job on earth. Pok Pok is on a mission to help raise the next generation of creative thinkers through non-addictive, digital tools that help them think outside the box and learn through play. Learn more about Pok Pok: https://playpokpok.com. Follow Pok Pok on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@studiopokpok?sub_confirmation=1 This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/

As parents, how can you tell if screen time is *actually* harmful for your child’s brain? And how can you even parent properly without a neuroscience degree?! Some days it feels impossible. You’re not the only one wondering how much screen time is too much for your kids, or feeling shame for handing them a tablet while you make dinner—it’s something we’re all thinking about. In this episode, neuroscientist and mom Dr. Cindy Hovington joins Melissa and Esther to unpack what science actually says about screens and young brains. Part brain scientist, part mom-in-the-trenches, Dr. Cindy Hovington translates neuroscience into everyday parenting wins. Through her science-based parenting platform, Curious Neuron, she gives families practical, evidence-based ways to nurture calm, confident kids. What you’ll learn in this episode: (00:32) What neuroscience says about how much screen time impacts kids’ behavior and attention. (03:35) Why parents feel guilt or fear about “messing up” their kids—and how to let go of that shame. (06:10) How early parent-child interactions build communication and emotional regulation long before words. (08:57) When screen time for kids becomes a substitute for soothing, and how that affects emotional development. (12:53) How to recognize when you’re using your phone to cope. (15:32) What research actually says about toddlers, attention, and screen time. (19:46) How to introduce screens with intention: what to watch for, what to avoid, and how to co-view. (32:30) The surprising ways screen time can strengthen family connection when shared together. Thank you to Dr. Cindy Hovington for being on our show! Learn more about Dr. Hovington on her Curious Neuron website: https://curiousneuron.com/ Follow Dr. Hovington on Instagram to learn about parenting through the lens of neuroscience: https://www.instagram.com/curious_neuron/ Connect with Dr. Hovington on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindyhovington/ Subscribe and follow the "We’re Doing Great" podcast by Melissa Cash, Esther Huybreghts, and the Pok Pok team: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1855989506 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ItWi8W0bYFS6yplP3tQii * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WereDoingGreatPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weredoinggreatpod/ * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@weredoinggreatpod We’re Doing Great is the parenting podcast that helps you navigate the hard stuff, savor the good stuff, and remember you’re not alone. Hosts and moms, Melissa Cash and Esther Huybreghts, team up with experts to share practical guidance on how to stay anchored when the waters get rough. Join us on the frontlines of modern parenting as we explore what it really means to be good at the hardest job on earth. Pok Pok is on a mission to help raise the next generation of creative thinkers through non-addictive, digital tools that help them think outside the box and learn through play. Learn more about Pok Pok: https://playpokpok.com. Follow Pok Pok on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@studiopokpok?sub_confirmation=1 This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/

Is the "barometer" you use to measure a successful night of sleep actually just a social construct that is making you more stressed? Sleep can feel overwhelming and deeply personal, especially when everyone seems to have an opinion about what you should be doing. In this episode, Melissa and Esther talk with Rachael Shepard-Ohta about why night wakings are normal, why crying isn’t automatically a problem to fix, how cultural expectations have shaped modern sleep pressure, and more. Rachael Shepard-Ohta is the founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, a certified sleep consultant, podcast host, and mom of three who helps families navigate sleep with compassion, evidence, and realism. What you’ll learn in this episode: (02:28) How “sleeping through the night” became a misleading cultural benchmark. (07:23) Why responding to night-time cries can matter just as much as daytime ones. (13:21) How sleep associations help kids feel safe, calm, and ready for rest. (19:03) What to check when bedtime takes too long or feels unsustainable. (27:22) Why sleep is such a polarizing topic for modern parents. (37:04) How mindset shifts and patience can make difficult sleep phases easier to endure. Thank you to Rachael Shepard-Ohta for being on our show! Learn more about Rachael and Hey, Sleepy Baby: https://heysleepybaby.com/ Subscribe and follow the "We’re Doing Great" podcast by Melissa Cash, Esther Huybreghts, and the Pok Pok team: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1855989506 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ItWi8W0bYFS6yplP3tQii * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WereDoingGreatPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weredoinggreatpod/ * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@weredoinggreatpod We’re Doing Great is the parenting podcast that helps you navigate the hard stuff, savor the good stuff, and remember you’re not alone. Hosts and moms, Melissa Cash and Esther Huybreghts, team up with experts to share practical guidance on how to stay anchored when the waters get rough. Join us on the frontlines of modern parenting as we explore what it really means to be good at the hardest job on earth. Pok Pok is on a mission to help raise the next generation of creative thinkers through non-addictive, digital tools that help them think outside the box and learn through play. Learn more about Pok Pok: https://playpokpok.com. Follow Pok Pok on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@studiopokpok?sub_confirmation=1 This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/

When deciding upon how to feed your baby, how can you trust your instincts when advice feels overwhelming? Feeding a baby often becomes one of the most emotionally charged parts of early parenthood, especially when expectations collide with reality. In this episode with guest Mallory Whitmore, you’ll hear an honest, validating conversation about why formula feeding isn’t a failure, but one of many legitimate ways to nourish your child and yourself. As a parent, educator, and founder of The Formula Mom, Mallory Whitmore is helping redefine infant feeding conversations with compassion and evidence-based guidance. Her book, "Bottle Service: Education and Encouragement for Guilt-Free and Successful Formula Feeding," is out in February. What you’ll learn in this episode: (02:41) Why feeding plans often fall apart after birth and why that’s normal. (04:00) How shame around feeding can affect your mental health and bonding with your baby. (08:32) The subtle ways feeding stress can impact both parents and babies. (10:09) Where formula stigma comes from and how culture reinforced it. (14:20) How social media makes trusting your parenting instincts harder. (19:08) Why validation matters more than advice when making feeding decisions. (24:03) How many feeding options exist beyond formula or breast milk. (25:28) Why infant feeding choices often don’t matter years down the line. Thank you to Mallory Whitmore for being on our show! Learn more about Mallory and The Formula Mom: https://www.instagram.com/theformulamom and https://www.tiktok.com/@theformulamom Want more formula education, tips, and support? Visit www.bottleservicebook.com to purchase Mallory's new guidebook, BOTTLE SERVICE: Education and Encouragement for Guilt Free and Successful Formula Feeding. Subscribe and follow the "We’re Doing Great" podcast by Melissa Cash, Esther Huybreghts, and the Pok Pok team: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1855989506 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ItWi8W0bYFS6yplP3tQii * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WereDoingGreatPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weredoinggreatpod/ * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@weredoinggreatpod We’re Doing Great is the parenting podcast that helps you navigate the hard stuff, savor the good stuff, and remember you’re not alone. Hosts and moms, Melissa Cash and Esther Huybreghts, team up with experts to share practical guidance on how to stay anchored when the waters get rough. Join us on the frontlines of modern parenting as we explore what it really means to be good at the hardest job on earth. Pok Pok is on a mission to help raise the next generation of creative thinkers through non-addictive, digital tools that help them think outside the box and learn through play. Learn more about Pok Pok: https://playpokpok.com. Follow Pok Pok on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@studiopokpok?sub_confirmation=1 This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/

When parenting doesn’t go as expected, how do you move forward? Parenting rarely goes according to plan, and this episode will remind you that unexpected turns don’t mean you’re doing it wrong. Beth Leipholtz shares how raising her son Coop reshaped her understanding of inclusion, communication, and letting go of control. You’ll walk away with reassurance, perspective, and practical insight for parenting with curiosity, compassion, and confidence. Beth Leipholtz is a mom and storyteller who shares honest, joyful reflections on parenting, disability, and inclusion through her platform Beth & Coop. A passionate advocate for raising curious, empathetic kids while navigating life with humor and heart, she is also the author of The ABCs of Inclusion: A Disability Inclusion Book For Kids. What you’ll learn in this episode: (01:38) How Beth processed her son’s early diagnosis and found clarity through action. (04:37) Why letting go of rigid parenting expectations can create more peace. (06:30) How language development and communication evolved as Beth’s son, Coop, grew. (08:52) What listening fatigue is and how it affects kids with hearing devices. (12:04) How parenting can unlock patience you didn’t know you had. (14:14) Why finding community can be a lifeline during uncertain seasons. (21:58) How encouraging kids to ask questions builds inclusion and empathy. (23:45) What inspired Beth’s book, The ABCs of Inclusion, and why representation matters. Thank you to Beth Leipholtz for being on our show! Learn more about Beth Leipholtz, her platform Beth & Coop, and her book, The ABCs of Inclusion: A Disability Inclusion Book For Kids: https://bethandcoop.com/ Subscribe and follow the "We’re Doing Great" podcast by Melissa Cash, Esther Huybreghts, and the Pok Pok team: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1855989506 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ItWi8W0bYFS6yplP3tQii * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WereDoingGreatPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weredoinggreatpod/ * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@weredoinggreatpod We’re Doing Great is the parenting podcast that helps you navigate the hard stuff, savor the good stuff, and remember you’re not alone. Hosts and moms Melissa Cash and Esther Huybreghts team up with experts to share practical guidance on how to stay anchored when the waters get rough. Join us on the frontlines of modern parenting as we explore what it really means to be good at the hardest job on earth. Pok Pok is on a mission to help raise the next generation of creative thinkers through non-addictive, digital tools that help them think outside the box and learn through play. Learn more about Pok Pok: https://playpokpok.com. Follow Pok Pok on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@studiopokpok?sub_confirmation=1 This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/

What is actually happening in your child’s brain during a meltdown? And, what can you do during a meltdown when nothing seems to help? When your child is melting down, it can feel personal, urgent, and overwhelming. In this episode, Laura Petix helps you reframe behavior as a nervous system response and shows how sensory strategies can support emotional regulation. Laura Petix is a pediatric occupational therapist and neurodiversity expert. As the creator of The OT Butterfly, she helps parents decode behavior through a sensory lens. What you’ll learn in this episode: (03:07) What’s happening in a child’s brain and nervous system during a meltdown. (07:32) How sensory input builds up throughout the day and leads to emotional overload. (09:49) Why after-school transitions are especially hard for many kids. (14:45) The hidden sensory challenges in everyday routines like mornings and bedtime. (19:51) How to tell when a behavior is a sensory issue versus a passing phase. (23:43) What actually helps children during meltdowns, and what often makes things worse. (29:26) How to teach regulation tools proactively when kids are calm. (35:30) Why “timeouts” work differently depending on how they’re used and framed. Thank you to Laura Petix for being on our show! Learn more about Laura and The OT Butterfly: https://theotbutterfly.com/ Follow Laura on Instagram: https://instagram.com/theotbutterfly Check out Laura’s podcast, Sensory W.I.S.E. Solutions Podcast for Parents: https://theotbutterfly.com/the-sensory-w-i-s-e-solutions-podcast-for-parents/ Get Laura’s book, A Kid’s Book About Neurodiversity: https://amzn.to/4qfE97g Subscribe and follow the "We’re Doing Great" podcast by Melissa Cash, Esther Huybreghts, and the Pok Pok team: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1855989506 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ItWi8W0bYFS6yplP3tQii * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WereDoingGreatPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weredoinggreatpod/ * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@weredoinggreatpod We’re Doing Great is the parenting podcast that helps you navigate the hard stuff, savor the good stuff, and remember you’re not alone. Hosts and moms, Melissa Cash and Esther Huybreghts, team up with experts to share practical guidance on how to stay anchored when the waters get rough. Join us on the frontlines of modern parenting as we explore what it really means to be good at the hardest job on earth. Pok Pok is on a mission to help raise the next generation of creative thinkers through non-addictive, digital tools that help them think outside the box and learn through play. Learn more about Pok Pok: https://playpokpok.com. Follow Pok Pok on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@studiopokpok?sub_confirmation=1 This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/

You’re navigating parenting in a world where screens are unavoidable, and this episode will help you release the guilt that often comes with that reality. In this episode, Melissa, Esther, and their guest, Ash Brandin, explore why leisure and downtime are essential for both you and your children, and how to model a healthy relationship with technology. Today’s guest is Ash Brandin. They are an educator, author of Power On, and are known online as The Gamer Educator. They help families rethink screen time without fear or shame. What you’ll learn in this episode: How letting go of screen guilt can create more peace and connection at home. Why screen time should be viewed as a family issue, not just a child issue. How screens can benefit kids by supporting calmer, more regulated caregivers. Why kids deserve true downtime that doesn’t have to be creative or productive. How educational pressure around screens often serves adult guilt more than kids’ needs. How to evaluate screen-time data without letting it overwhelm you. How modeling healthy leisure teaches kids to balance responsibility and rest as adults. Thank you to Ash Brandin for being on our show! Learn more about Ash, aka The Gamer Educator at https://www.instagram.com/thegamereducator/ Get Ash’s book, Power On: Managing Screen Time to Benefit the Whole Family: https://www.thegamereducator.com/book Subscribe and follow the "We’re Doing Great" podcast by Melissa Cash, Esther Huybreghts, and the Pok Pok team: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1855989506 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ItWi8W0bYFS6yplP3tQii * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WereDoingGreatPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weredoinggreatpod/ * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@weredoinggreatpod We’re Doing Great is the parenting podcast that helps you navigate the hard stuff, savor the good stuff, and remember you’re not alone. Hosts and moms, Melissa Cash and Esther Huybreghts, team up with experts to share practical guidance on how to stay anchored when the waters get rough. Join us on the frontlines of modern parenting as we explore what it really means to be good at the hardest job on earth. Pok Pok is on a mission to help raise the next generation of creative thinkers through non-addictive, digital tools that help them think outside the box and learn through play. Learn more about Pok Pok: https://playpokpok.com. Follow Pok Pok on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@studiopokpok?sub_confirmation=1 This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/

Which hygiene routines actually matter for preventing illness in your home? In this episode, Melissa and Esther chat with beloved pediatrician Dr. Mona about what parents really need to know about kids getting sick. This conversation explores practical, pediatrician-approved strategies for hygiene, symptom monitoring, and knowing exactly when to seek extra help. Dr. Mona Amin is a board-certified pediatrician and the creator of PedsDocTalk, a global parenting education platform offering evidence-based guidance with zero guilt and tons of warmth. What you’ll learn in this episode: (05:17) Which hand-washing habits make a real difference. (08:42) Whether changing clothes after daycare or school is truly necessary. (13:48) How dirt, pets, and outdoor play help train a child’s immune system. (22:48) How to tell when your child’s symptoms need medical attention and how to trust your intuition. (33:22) The core pillars of creating a healthy household during sick season, including sleep, hydration, ventilation, and low stress. (37:06) Practical tools like saline spray, warm air, and outdoor time to help kids recover. (42:04) Dr. Mona’s philosophy of staying “hopeful, not naive” to reduce spiraling and raise emotionally resilient kids. Thank you to Dr. Mona Amin for being on our show! Learn more about Dr. Mona and PedsDocTalk: https://pedsdoctalk.com and https://www.instagram.com/pedsdoctalk/ Subscribe and follow the "We’re Doing Great" podcast by Melissa Cash, Esther Huybreghts, and the Pok Pok team: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1855989506 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ItWi8W0bYFS6yplP3tQii * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WereDoingGreatPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weredoinggreatpod/ * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@weredoinggreatpod We’re Doing Great is the parenting podcast that helps you navigate the hard stuff, savor the good stuff, and remember you’re not alone. Hosts and moms, Melissa Cash and Esther Huybreghts, team up with experts to share practical guidance on how to stay anchored when the waters get rough. Join us on the frontlines of modern parenting as we explore what it really means to be good at the hardest job on earth. Pok Pok is on a mission to help raise the next generation of creative thinkers through non-addictive, digital tools that help them think outside the box and learn through play. Learn more about Pok Pok: https://playpokpok.com. Follow Pok Pok on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@studiopokpok?sub_confirmation=1 This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/

How can you tell if your child’s struggles are normal or a sign of ADHD? And, how do you decide whether to pursue a formal ADHD diagnosis? In this episode, hosts Melissa Cash and Esther Huybreghts talk with psychologist Dr. Carrie Jackson to unpack the truth about ADHD in children. Together they explore early signs, gender differences, and how parents can support their kids without shame or stigma. Dr. Carrie Jackson is a licensed psychologist who specializes in ADHD in children—and she has ADHD herself, so she gets it. She’s on a mission to help parents understand their kids’ unique brains and build calmer, happier homes along the way. What you’ll learn in this episode: (03:50) How ADHD really shows up in kids—and why it’s not always what you think. (06:11) The key differences between ADHD in boys and girls, and why girls are often diagnosed later. (07:52) How outdated gender stereotypes and diagnostic criteria affect how ADHD is identified in children. (10:50) Why ADHD tends to run in families and what that means for parents with similar traits. (12:47) The first steps to take if you suspect your child might have ADHD. (14:38) Why typical parenting strategies don’t work for ADHD brains, and how to adapt your approach. (17:10) How to use visuals, structure, and environmental cues to help ADHD kids stay organized and calm. (24:11) How to reduce shame, build confidence, and help your child thrive with ADHD. Visit https://www.drcarriejackson.com to learn more about Dr. Carrie Jackson’s ADHD resources, expert advice, and supportive parenting tools. Be sure to connect with Dr. Carrie on social media to ask questions and learn more about ADHD in kids: * Dr. Carrie’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.carriejackson/ * Dr. Carrie’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drcarriejackson * ADHD Parenting Course: https://www.drcarriejackson.com/connectedandpracticalparenting * Free ADHD Parenting Guide: https://www.drcarriejackson.com/free-parent-guide * Dr. Carrie’s Private Practice: https://www.socalchildpsych.com/ Here’s the timer clock discussed in this episode: Yunbaoit Visual Timer: https://amzn.to/4ipWzj9 Subscribe and follow the "We’re Doing Great" podcast by Melissa Cash, Esther Huybreghts, and the Pok Pok team: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1855989506 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ItWi8W0bYFS6yplP3tQii * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WereDoingGreatPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weredoinggreatpod/ * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@weredoinggreatpod Here’s the timer clock discussed in this episode: Yunbaoit Visual Timer: https://amzn.to/4ipWzj9 We’re Doing Great is the parenting podcast that helps you navigate the hard stuff, savor the good stuff, and remember you’re not alone. Hosts and moms, Melissa Cash and Esther Huybreghts, team up with experts to share practical guidance on how to stay anchored when the waters get rough. Join us on the frontlines of modern parenting as we explore what it really means to be good at the hardest job on earth. Pok Pok is on a mission to help raise the next generation of creative thinkers through non-addictive, digital tools that help them think outside the box and learn through play. Learn more about Pok Pok: https://playpokpok.com. Follow Pok Pok on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@studiopokpok?sub_confirmation=1 This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/

What changes when you stop performing “good parenting” for others and focus on what works for your family? In this episode, Melissa and Esther talk with prolific content creator Shawna Lander about the messy, funny, and deeply human realities of becoming a mom. Get ready to unpack how becoming a mother transformed Shawna’s identity and career, leading her to write hilarious and honest skits about the real-life struggles no one prepares you for. Shawna Lander is the hilarious mind behind the “Shawnaverse,” where her sharp, heartfelt mom-skits help parents feel seen in all their messy glory. She’s an actor, writer, mom, and cancer survivor. What you’ll learn in this episode: (01:37) Why judgment shows up everywhere in parenting and how to recognize it without letting it define you. (06:47) How seeing your child as a whole human changes the way you handle tough moments. (09:20) Why your child’s “inconvenient” behavior might actually be healthy self-advocacy. (12:18) How understanding someone’s upbringing can completely shift how you interpret their parenting style. (15:45) Why encouraging autonomy in young kids sets them up for stronger self-identity later on. (18:12) How to parent through major life challenges. (27:09) What happens when parenting roles shift. (35:21) Why protecting kids from every hardship can backfire. Thank you to Shawna Lander for being on our show! Follow Shawna: https://www.instagram.com/shawnathemom and https://www.tiktok.com/@shawnathemom and https://www.youtube.com/@shawnathemom. Subscribe and follow the "We’re Doing Great" podcast by Melissa Cash, Esther Huybreghts, and the Pok Pok team: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1855989506 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ItWi8W0bYFS6yplP3tQii * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WereDoingGreatPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weredoinggreatpod/ * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@weredoinggreatpod We’re Doing Great is the parenting podcast that helps you navigate the hard stuff, savor the good stuff, and remember you’re not alone. Hosts and moms, Melissa Cash and Esther Huybreghts, team up with experts to share practical guidance on how to stay anchored when the waters get rough. Join us on the frontlines of modern parenting as we explore what it really means to be good at the hardest job on earth. Pok Pok is on a mission to help raise the next generation of creative thinkers through non-addictive, digital tools that help them think outside the box and learn through play. Learn more about Pok Pok: https://playpokpok.com. Follow Pok Pok on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@studiopokpok?sub_confirmation=1 This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/

As a parent, how can you build real in-person connections when you feel overwhelmed or isolated? In this episode, you’ll dive into why raising kids today often feels so lonely—and what you as a parent can actually do to change that. Peanut CEO Michelle Kennedy joins Melissa and Esther to open up about the realities of modern parenthood and gives practical, compassionate steps for finding real connection again. Michelle is also the author of It Takes a Village, a book filled with real stories of modern motherhood. Peanut is kind of like Bumble for moms—a wildly popular social networking app helping millions of women navigating fertility, pregnancy, motherhood or menopause find connection and support. What you’ll learn in this episode: (01:25) Why today’s parents are the loneliest generation. (03:06) How community spaces disappeared over time. (06:54) Why resourcing your life like you would a business can help you navigate childcare and shared support. (08:20) How finding just one friend with aligned values can change your entire parenting experience. (19:00) Why getting uncomfortable is the first step to making meaningful mom friends. (20:25) How connection evolves as your kids grow. (22:45) How to understand the difference between social media consumption and true, reciprocal community. (30:34) Why prioritizing yourself is essential. Thank you to Michelle Kennedy for being on our show! Learn more about Michelle: https://michellekennedy.co Follow Michelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellekennedylon/ Follow Peanut to get connected with other mothers and find your village: https://www.instagram.com/peanut Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellekennedy2/ Get Michelle’s new book, It Takes A Village, from Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0241709989 Or from Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/0241709989 Subscribe and follow the "We’re Doing Great" podcast by Melissa Cash, Esther Huybreghts, and the Pok Pok team: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1855989506 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ItWi8W0bYFS6yplP3tQii * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WereDoingGreatPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weredoinggreatpod/ * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@weredoinggreatpod We’re Doing Great is the parenting podcast that helps you navigate the hard stuff, savor the good stuff, and remember you’re not alone. Hosts and moms, Melissa Cash and Esther Huybreghts, team up with experts to share practical guidance on how to stay anchored when the waters get rough. Join us on the frontlines of modern parenting as we explore what it really means to be good at the hardest job on earth. Pok Pok is on a mission to help raise the next generation of creative thinkers through non-addictive, digital tools that help them think outside the box and learn through play. Learn more about Pok Pok: https://playpokpok.com. Follow Pok Pok on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@studiopokpok?sub_confirmation=1 This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/

What is Melissa and Esther’s mission behind creating a podcast that focuses on imperfect parenting? In this first episode, you’ll meet Melissa and Esther as they share why they created a parenting podcast that lifts you up instead of overwhelming you. You’ll hear candid stories, real-life chaos, and a lot of laughter as they set the tone for honest, judgment-free parenting conversations. What you’ll learn in this episode: (01:38) How short, digestible episodes are designed to fit seamlessly into a busy parent’s day. (02:08) Why so much parenting content causes anxiety, and what this podcast aims to do differently. (02:44) How reminders of what’s working in your family can be more powerful than advice about what’s wrong. (05:23) How confronting your own fears (like bugs!) shapes what you teach your kids. (06:00) Why vulnerability between parents help build community and reduce self-judgment. (09:32) Where to follow the hosts and how joining early helps grow a supportive parenting community. Subscribe and follow the "We’re Doing Great" podcast by Melissa Cash, Esther Huybreghts, and the Pok Pok team: * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/es/podcast/were-doing-great-a-podcast-for-imperfect-parents-by-pok-pok/id1855989506 * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ItWi8W0bYFS6yplP3tQii?si=uhYAT_KpSlKDXmFv14tDAQ * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@studiopokpok?sub_confirmation=1 * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weredoinggreatpod/ * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@weredoinggreatpod We’re Doing Great is the parenting podcast that helps you navigate the hard stuff, savor the good stuff, and remember you’re not alone. Hosts and moms, Melissa Cash and Esther Huybreghts, team up with experts to share practical guidance on how to stay anchored when the waters get rough. Join us on the frontlines of modern parenting as we explore what it really means to be good at the hardest job on earth. Learn more about Pok Pok: https://playpokpok.com. We’re toymakers in a digital age. Our mission is to help raise the next generation of creative thinkers. And our design process is simple: kids are in charge. This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/