Zen Pop

Todd and Cathy bring calm in the context of an upcoming election. They discussed the importance of self-compassion, its three components, and the concept of mindfulness, emphasizing that self-compassion is not about letting oneself off the hook, but rather about treating oneself with kindness and understanding. They also highlighted the challenges of balancing emotions and planning for the future, and the importance of self-care and mindfulness in managing these emotions. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Some Ways to Support Us Attend ZenCon 25 Pre-order Restoring our Girls Join Team Zen Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Zen Parenting Radio: Calm and ElectionIn this episode of Zen parenting radio, Todd and Kathy aim to bring some calm to their audience, particularly in the context of an upcoming election. They decided to record a 30-minute podcast of calm, without any sales pitches or discussions about their conference or book. The podcast was recorded on November 2nd and scheduled to be released on November 5th. The hosts also experimented with a study music track in the background, but were unsure if it would be effective. Self-Compassion and Radical AcceptanceTodd discussed the importance of self-compassion, particularly in times of anxiety or overwhelm. He shared his personal experiences with fear and anxiety, noting that he tends to freeze up and become paralyzed when faced with fear. Todd emphasized the need for self-compassion to keep moving forward despite these feelings. He also acknowledged that he tends to compartmentalize, while his colleague tends to be more spongy. Todd stressed the importance of radical self-acceptance and awareness of one’s situation to make shifts towards feeling more. He also noted that not everyone experiences self-criticism or wishes to be different, and that some people may be more concerned with external challenges. Self-Compassion: A More Stable SenseTodd discussed the concept of self-compassion, its origins in research by Kristen Neff, and its distinction from self-esteem. He highlighted that self-esteem often relies on external validation and comparison, whereas self-compassion is more accepting and understanding, especially in times of failure. Todd also emphasized the importance of self-compassion in fostering a more connected and supportive environment, both for oneself and others. He concluded by noting that self-compassion provides a more stable sense of self-worth over time, which is particularly relevant for parents dealing with their children’s struggles. The Power of Self-CompassionTodd discussed the importance of self-compassion and its three components: self-kindness, common humanity, and mindfulness. He emphasized that self-compassion is not about letting oneself off the hook, but rather about treating oneself with kindness and understanding, which allows for clearer thinking and better decision-making. Todd also highlighted the potential negative effects of self-judgment and the importance of acknowledging and directing attention away from the inner critic. He concluded by stating that self-compassion enables individuals to recognize their mistakes and make different choices, leading to personal growth and development. Mindfulness: Awareness and Self-Kindness JourneyTodd discussed the concept of mindfulness, describing it as being aware of one’s surroundings and body without judgment. He emphasized that it’s a lifelong journey and not about achieving a specific state, but rather about being present in the moment. Todd also highlighted the importance of self-kindness when one’s mind wanders, and the need to recognize that one doesn’t have to stay in a negative state. He used personal experiences and practical examples to illustrate his points. Balancing Emotions and Planning for FutureTodd discussed the challenges of balancing emotions and planning for the future. He acknowledged the difficulty of staying calm amidst uncertainty, such as the upcoming election, and the need to prepare mentally for potential outcomes. Todd also shared his personal experiences of hyperventilating due to worry about missing important moments with his children. He emphasized the importance of self-care and mindfulness in managing these emotions. The conv

Todd and Cathy emphasized the importance of supporting children through their challenges, the need for parents to understand their children’s perspectives, and the significance of civic engagement, particularly voting. They also discussed the importance of critical thinking, questioning authority, and engaging with adults, while expressing concern about the current political climate and the need for honesty and transparency. Lastly, they shared their experiences and perspectives on leadership, the importance of creating spaces for real conversations, and the need for people to listen more and understand the potential impact of political changes on their lives. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Some Ways to Support Us Attend ZenCon 25 Pre-order Restoring our Girls Join Team Zen Sign up for Cathy’s Substack A Little Bit Culty – A Conversation with The Vow’s Sarah Edmondson and Anthony “Nippy” Ames – Podcast #675 Time Stamps (00:09:30) ZPR Moment- “I Don’t Know” (00:21:14) Civil engagement (00:43:31) Talking to women ** (00:48:52) Join Team Zen (00:51:11) Attend ZenCon 25 Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Summary Supporting Children and Civic EngagementTodd emphasized the importance of supporting children through their challenges, suggesting that this support should start early in their lives. He also discussed the need for parents to understand their children’s perspectives and not impose their own expectations. Todd further highlighted the significance of civic engagement, particularly voting, and expressed concern about the complacency of younger generations. He acknowledged that the current time is different from his own youth, but still believes that young people should be more engaged in the voting process. Voting, Women’s Rights, and ChangeTodd discussed the importance of voting and the impact of recent election cycles on the direction of the country. He expressed his concern about the erosion of women’s rights and the need for change. Todd also shared his personal experience of being a woman and working with women, emphasizing the importance of reproductive freedom and overall health. He encouraged others to register to vote and participate in the democratic process, despite differing opinions. Embracing Uncertainty and Honest ParentingTodd expressed his concern about the current political climate and the need for honesty and transparency. He emphasized the importance of valuing uncertainty and not pretending to have all the answers. Todd also discussed the concept of “Zen parenting,” which involves being honest with children about not knowing everything and encouraging them to find their own solutions. He highlighted the power of saying “I don’t know” as a way to promote self-discovery and decision-making in children. Embracing Uncertainty in ParentingTodd discusses the importance of acknowledging that one does not have all the answers, especially when it comes to parenting and understanding children’s perspectives. He emphasizes staying curious, demonstrating humility, and giving children the freedom to find their own path instead of imposing one’s own expectations. Todd plays clips from movies to illustrate his point about not pretending to know everything. The overall message is to be open-minded, avoid assumptions, and embrace the uncertainty of not having all the answers when it comes to raising children. Encouraging Critical Thinking and EngagementTodd discussed the importance of critical thinking and allowing children to form their own opinions, rather than imposing one’s own beliefs. He emphasized the need for children to learn to trust themselves and process information from various sources. Todd also touched on the topic of civil engagement, using the example of the upcoming election. He suggested that parents should engage their children in discussions about current issues, such as gun control, in a child-appropriate manner. Todd stressed the importance of finding common ground and understanding different viewpoints, rather than resorting to binary thinking. Critical Thinking and Respectful DignityTodd discussed the importance of critical thinking and questioning authority, emphasizing that it doesn’t mean disrespecting e

Todd and Cathy explored the concept of love bombing, its connection to cults and abusive relationships, and the importance of teaching children to recognize and navigate such situations. The conversation also touched on Todd’s experience at an event addressing domestic violence, Cathy’s upcoming book, and the significance of intuition and boundary-setting in relationships. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Some Ways to Support Us Attend ZenCon 25 Pre-order Restoring our Girls Join Team Zen Sign up for Cathy’s Substack A Little Bit Culty – A Conversation with The Vow’s Sarah Edmondson and Anthony “Nippy” Ames – Podcast #675 Time Stamps (00:03:15) What we’re talking about (00:09:45) What is an anxiety spiral? (00:32:20) First steps * (00:50:20) Join Team Zen Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys

Cathy & Todd explore anxiety spirals sharing personal experiences and strategies for managing anxiety, including mindfulness, grounding techniques, self-soothing methods, and healthy distractions. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Some Ways to Support Us Attend ZenCon 25 Pre-order Restoring our Girls Join Team Zen Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Time Stamps (00:03:15) What we’re talking about (00:09:45) What is an anxiety spiral? (00:32:20) First steps * (00:50:20) Join Team Zen Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys

Todd & Cathy shared the pervasive nature of comparison culture in various aspects of life. They emphasized the importance of self-awareness, individuality, and understanding the underlying motivations behind one’s actions and desires, rather than just focusing on external validation. They also discussed the impact of social media on comparison culture, the importance of empathy and kindness, and the fleeting nature of happiness derived from material possessions. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Some Ways to Support Us Attend ZenCon 25 Pre-order Restoring our Girls Join Team Zen Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Time Stamps (00:04:55) Todd’s airport guy story (00:52:57) Painting and Remodeling Needs? Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 (00:16:00) Comparison (00:25:06) Todd owns his stuff * (00:53:04) Join Team Zen Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys

We discuss the importance of self-understanding, real conversations with children, and the impact of labels on their development. Discussions also focused on mental well-being, resilience, and personal growth in children, emphasizing the need to allow them to explore their own interests and make decisions. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Some Ways to Support Us Attend ZenCon 25 Pre-order Restoring our Girls Join Team Zen Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Time Stamps (00:01:45) Critical thinking and investigating dis-information (00:14:47) “Know Me”- The Danger of Labels (00:52:57) Painting and Remodeling Needs? Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 (00:53:04) Join Team Zen Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys

Dr. John Duffy joins us as we take questions from Team Zen regarding teens experimenting with drugs and alcohol, lack of motivation, screen time, time management, and challenges with youth sports coaches. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Some Ways to Support Us Attend ZenCon 25 Pre-order Restoring our Girls Join Team Zen Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Time Stamps (00:00:00) ZenCon25 Announcement (00:12:00) 16 year old son experimenting with drugs/alcohol (00:25:07) 20 year old son stuck and unmotivated (00:34:23) ZenCon 25, Restoring Our Girls, Team Zen (00:39:40) 17 year old daughter struggling with screentime and time management (00:51:35) 14 year old son challenges with his baseball coach (01:10:04) Painting and Remodeling Needs? Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys

Todd and Cathy discuss the paradox of feedback as well as the 8 C’s of IFS (Internal Family Systems) For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:03:46) Movie “feedback references” (00:06:38) Sign up for Cathy’s Substack– Feedback (00:13:06) The basic premise of IFS (00:19:40) ) Join Team Zen (00:20:35) The 8’C (00:39:22) Painting and Remodeling Needs? Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 3 Ways to Support Us Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast

Todd and Cathy discuss cell phone use in schools, and the challenges of navigating through difficult situations such as elderly care and relationship dynamics. They also highlighted the importance of effective communication, teamwork, and self-care in dealing with such situations. Lastly, they discussed the top 10 common obstacles families face when dealing with aging parents. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Want a more intimate relationship? Why “Noticing” is Essential for Understanding and Intimacy in Your Relationship. Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:05:15) Cell phones in schools (00:12:32) You, me and we (00:27:32) Join Team Zen (00:33:17) Top 10 common obstacles families face when dealing with aging parents (00:47:49) Painting and Remodeling Needs? Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Here are 10 common obstacles families face when dealing with aging parents: Communication Challenges: Aging parents may struggle to communicate their needs, either due to cognitive decline, pride, or fear of burdening their children. Similarly, adult children may find it difficult to navigate sensitive conversations about care and long-term planning. Role Reversal: Children taking on caregiving responsibilities can create tension, especially when aging parents resist acknowledging the shift in roles, leading to frustration or conflict. Financial Strain: The cost of healthcare, assisted living, or home care can create financial pressure on families. Sorting out financial responsibilities between siblings and parents adds another layer of complexity. Healthcare Decisions: Families often face tough decisions about medical treatments, palliative care, or end-of-life wishes. These can be emotionally draining, especially when family members disagree on the best course of action. Emotional Stress: Caring for an aging parent can lead to burnout, depression, or guilt, especially if one family member is the primary caregiver. The emotional toll can affect relationships with siblings, partners, and even the aging parent. Cognitive Decline: Conditions like dementia or Alzheimer’s can make caregiving more challenging, as family members navigate memory loss, confusion, and changes in personality or behavior. Living Arrangements: Deciding whether parents should age in place, move in with a family member, or transition to assisted living can be difficult. Families may struggle to find a solution that respects the parent’s wishes while ensuring their safety. Sibling Disagreements: Family members often have different opinions on how to care for aging parents, which can cause conflict. This can be exacerbated if responsibilities are not evenly shared or if old family dynamics resurface. Legal and Ethical Considerations: Managing power of attorney, wills, and healthcare directives can become complicated, especially if these documents are outdated or incomplete. Ethical concerns about autonomy and consent also come into play with aging parents. Time Constraints: Many adult children are juggling their own families, careers, and responsibilities, which can make it difficult to devote the necessary time and attention to caregiving. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy or resentment. 3 Ways to Support Us Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Todd and Cathy discussed the importance of self-understanding, open communication, and healthy boundaries in parenting and relationships. They also highlighted the value of shared experiences, respect, and emotional regulation in building strong relationships. Additionally, they touched on the appeal of various forms of media and the need for ongoing conversations about family history and challenges. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Want a more intimate relationship? Why “Noticing” is Essential for Understanding and Intimacy in Your Relationship. Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:02:35) Yes, Boys Can (00:09:40) Family secrets ZPR Moment Sign up for Cathy’s Substack (00:19:50) 7 Things- Boundaries (00:27:57) Friends (00:29:58) Dark times (00:33:36) Be themselves (00:40:44) Difficult conversations (00:43:43) They fought (00:49:46) Make light of each other’s quirks (00:53:25) Join Team Zen (00:53:36) Painting and Remodeling Needs? Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 3 Ways to Support Us Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Todd and Cathy discuss the concept of milestones in parenting, emphasizing the importance of allowing children to develop at their own pace and encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones. They shared personal anecdotes about their own children’s developmental differences and their experiences with spiders, cicadas, and flies. They also highlighted the challenges and milestones of parenting, including the transition of children into school and beyond, and the need for parents to provide support and connection in the face of various pressures. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Want a more intimate relationship? Why “Noticing” is Essential for Understanding and Intimacy in Your Relationship. Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:04:37) Critters (00:13:55) Navigating Milestones (00:16:45) Pirates of the Caribbean (00:19:00) Trust your gut (00:22:37) Join Team Zen (01:02:00) Painting and Remodeling Needs? Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 3 Ways to Support Us Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Todd and Cathy discuss projection and why sometimes we are projecting, sometimes we are reacting, sometimes we are sharing our feelings, and sometimes it’s a mix of all three! They also discuss why the first day of school (from Kindergarten through college) is filled with both joy and fear, and reminisce about how the saxophone is used in so many 80s movie scores and pop music. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Want a more intimate relationship? Why “Noticing” is Essential for Understanding and Intimacy in Your Relationship. Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:00:43) Phil Donahue RIP (00:02:10) Saxophone talk (00:06:45) Back to School ZPR Moment- Sign up for Cathy’s Substack (00:13:50) What is projection (00:26:14) Join Team Zen (00:29:54) Jeff Foster’s take (00:47:12) Projecting in parenting (00:51:30) Painting and Remodeling Needs? Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 3 Ways to Support Us Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Cathy and Todd discuss the new language around healthy masculinity, inspired by Vice Presidential nominee Tim Walz, and they explore how men can embrace traditional masculine traits while also valuing and expressing compassion and kindness. They talk about the small happy things—those small, happy moments that not only boost our mood but also improve our overall perspective. They also discuss strategies for supporting men, women, boys and girls when it comes to mental wellness, emphasizing the importance of a balanced approach. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Want a more intimate relationship? Why “Noticing” is Essential for Understanding and Intimacy in Your Relationship. Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:03:50) Phones in schools (00:02:08) Sign up for Cathy’s Substack– Our Girls Want to Feel Inspired (00:19:04) Small happy things (00:30:37) Join Team Zen (00:32:36) What is “tonic masculinity”? (00:51:42) Our parts and the role of self-awareness ** (00:57:58) Painting and Remodeling Needs? Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 3 Ways to Support Us Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Cathy and Todd talk about anxiety and why it’s a completely normal part of life. They explain how anxiety isn’t just a response to stress but a built-in part of our survival system. Using the movie Inside Out 2, they show how anxiety, like the other emotions in the film, helps us navigate uncertainty and stay safe. They also offer practical tips for managing anxiety and discuss how accepting and understanding it can lead to greater adaptability and resilience. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Male Menopause: The Three Obstacles Midlife Men Face and How to Overcome Them Want a more intimate relationship? Why “Noticing” is Essential for Understanding and Intimacy in Your Relationship. Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:10:52) Acknowledging Anxiety- Sign up for Cathy’s Substack (00:13:30) Body intelligence & anxiety ** (00:20:09) The second arrow (00:27:27) Join Team Zen (00:28:22) Ways to help our kids regulate (00:49:09) Anxiety can be a messenger (00:59:03) Painting and Remodeling Needs? Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 3 Ways to Support Us Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Cathy and Todd discuss life trajectories, emphasizing that success isn’t confined to a single right path, way, class, major, or job. They highlight the importance of children trusting their instincts and their own knowledge as they go through life. They also explore how resilience and adaptability are developed through every setback, and how we can help our children feel supported and trusted as they navigate their experiences. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources It’s OK | Hyundai Join Team Zen Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:05:44) Life trajectories (00:13:25) You will see how the pieces fit together (00:16:30) Hyundai commercial (00:19:48) Good challenge vs bad challenge ** (00:21:02) Whiplash ** (00:26:09) Join Team Zen (00:26:30) Take care of your own business (00:30:05) What ZPR is all about ** (00:35:40) Make home safe (00:37:50) Life trajectories part 2 (00:52:37) Painting and Remodeling Needs? Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 3 Ways to Support Us Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Cathy and Todd discuss cognitive labor, which is the mental effort and worry of anticipating needs, considering options, making decisions, and tracking progress in the home and with kids. They explore how it’s connected to emotional and invisible labor and stress the importance of ongoing discussions to reduce resentment and ensure everyone feels seen and understood. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Other Emotional Labor Podcasts Women Aren’t Nags, We’re Fed Up- Podcast #495 Real-Time Emotional Labor- Podcast #440 Emotional Labor is an Unpaid Job- Podcast #405 Join Team Zen Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:10:48) What can I do to help? (00:21:03) Being responsible for other people’s happiness (00:26:30) Join Team Zen (00:31:29) The lies told to boys and men ** (00:32:24) Why Todd doesn’t do it ** (00:53:39) Painting and Remodeling Needs? Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 3 Ways to Support Us Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Todd and Cathy emphasize the importance of being present, thinking critically, and doing in parenting, and discussed the concept of human archetypes and the need to focus on the present moment. They also shared personal anecdotes about balancing ‘being’, ‘doing’, and ‘thinking’, and discussed the challenges of societal expectations and the importance of living authentically. Lastly, they addressed underlying issues in relationships, the importance of taking action, and the need to process emotions healthily. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:00:28) Sign up for Cathy’s Substack– Being, thinking, and doing (00:06:22) Todd’s “Be, Think, Do Balance” (00:14:58) Todd’s “Be’er” shows up (00:27:22) Cathy’s “Be, Think, Do Balance” (00:57:32) The spiritual bypass ** (00:59:41) Comparing pain (01:00:55) We are a hedonistic society that believes we should be suffering. (01:02:04) Join Team Zen (01:02:35) Painting and Remodeling Needs? Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 3 Ways to Support Us Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Cathy & Todd discuss why our kids feel pressure to conform, focusing on when it’s developmentally appropriate and when it may be cause for concern. They also discuss how adults feel the same pressure to conform, emphasizing why relating to our kids, rather than judging them, is more impactful for their learning and for maintaining our connection. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:00:36) Join Team Zen (00:04:59) Sign up for Cathy’s Substack– The pressure to conform (00:20:18) Taking care of ourselves (00:21:25) Spanx and Skims ** (00:33:58) Flair (00:43:45) Painting and Remodeling Needs? Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 3 Ways to Support Us Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Todd and Cathy discuss the importance and value of difficult conversations in partnership and parenting, emphasizing the two extremes: complete avoidance or overbearing insistence on discussing things. They explore how to find a middle ground—being approachable and open, but also willing to set boundaries and agree to expectations. This approach allows for a home environment where real conversations are encouraged and practiced, and where everyone feels heard and comfortable sharing. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:08:24) Setting an infrastructure for difficult conversations (00:18:47) Talking ourselves out of having difficult conversations (00:14:05) Difficult Conversations Sign up for Cathy’s Substack (00:29:33) Join Team Zen (00:38:35) Finding the balance ** (00:41:12) If react immediately, I shut her down, if I wait too long, I shut me down) ** (01:02:48) Painting and Remodeling Needs? Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 3 Ways to Support Us Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Todd and Cathy discuss what brings us joy when we are young versus what brings us joy when we are older. They also discuss agreements that can be made within a relationship to keep communication open and healthy. They share why it’s important to appreciate who we are and where we are now, rather than trying to return to a certain time, body, or mindset that may not align with who we have become. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Donate to MenLiving Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:01:00) Grief & Time- Sign up for Cathy’s Substack (00:07:13) Relationship Agreements (00:22:40) Novelty & Ordinary (00:25:26) Join Team Zen (00:32:44) Incredible hulk (00:34:49) Levels of joy ** (00:45:02) Body Awareness ** (00:48:40) Normal Eating ** (00:50:48 ) Painting and Remodeling Needs? Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 3 Ways to Support Us Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Todd and Cathy discuss who’s in the inner circle of the Brat Pack and who is Brat Pack adjacent based on their memories from the 80s and their experience with Andrew McCarthy’s Brat Pack Documentary. They discuss how growth and self-awareness play significant roles in the documentary, and why some individuals evolve faster than others. They also touch on Inside Out 2 and address a listener question about shifting generational cycles. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Donate to MenLiving Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:00:43) Join Team Zen (00:01:20) Chain breaker in a family system (00:10:20) Brats (00:54:29) Inside Out (01:00:58) Panic Attacks** (01:01:32) Parts work ** (01:03:20) uncomfortable and uncomfortable emotion ** (01:05:42) Pride- Sign up for Cathy’s Substack (01:06:14) Painting and Remodeling Needs? Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 3 Ways to Support Us Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Cathy and Todd discuss how women are socialized to become smaller and more restricted, and then begin to unwind and unfold this process once they become aware of what’s happening. Cathy provides an overview of this in her Substack titled ‘Women Unfolding,’ explaining why this is the image she sees in her mind when she works with women. Todd shares his version of men unfolding, and they discuss songs that have parentheses in the title and debate whether or not those parentheses are necessary. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Donate to MenLiving Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:13:33) Todd’s perception of cheese sauce on nachos * (00:00:52) Join Team Zen (00:17:27) Women Unfolding- Sign up for Cathy’s Substack (00:20:29) Folds in regards to on our kids report cards * (00:29:40) Folding in as if we’re still children * (00:32:20) The hole (00:44:15) Painting and Remodeling Needs? Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 3 Ways to Support Us Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Todd and Cathy discuss acceptance and emphasize the importance of releasing old ideas and remaining open to new ones in order to figure out how to accept and move forward. They also discuss the reality of nuance and paradox, explaining why decision-making is not about finding the ‘right’ decision, but rather the right decision for right now. The also talk about Tim McGraw’s music and how it reminds us to be our best selves. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Monday Night Wildcard- Why did “Man or Bear” Go Viral? (all genders) Donate to MenLiving Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:04:38) Sign up for Cathy’s Substack (00:10:54) Acceptance (00:12:30) When couples lose themselves and blend (00:28:33) Kids doing it differently (00:29:02) Join Team Zen (00:32:07) When life doesn’t match out blueprint ** (00:41:03) Devil’s advocate on acceptance** (00:59:28) Painting and Remodeling Needs? Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 3 Ways to Support Us Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Cathy and Todd discuss why necessary conversations are so difficult to manage and why and how we try to avoid them. They share examples of the experiences that lead to avoidance and offer insights into developing understanding instead. They emphasize why the most challenging and reactive conversations can be pivotal for relationships and lead to greater intimacy. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Monday Night Wildcard- Why did “Man or Bear” Go Viral? (all genders) Donate to MenLiving Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:01:40) Cicadas (00:06:35) Todd’s old man tendencies (00:11:40) Relationship talk (00:19:55) It’s not about the thing (00:23:20) The cost of not dealing with conflict (00:30:00) Join Team Zen (00:49:49) Empty nest coaches ** (01:07:30) Painting and Remodeling Needs? Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 (01:07:30) Join Team Zen 3 Ways to Support Us Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Cathy and Todd discuss Netflix’s ‘Love on the Spectrum’ and why the people and families featured make it such a good watch. They discuss the importance of loving, and liking, our children just as they are, and how this allows them to thrive, and they analyze Harrison Butker’s speech and why it was offensive in many different ways. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Monday Night Wildcard- Why did “Man or Bear” Go Viral? (all genders) Donate to MenLiving Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:12:16) Love on the Spectrum (00:30:00) Jamming on the Job (00:35:30) Just love your kid ** (00:02:08) Sign up for Cathy’s Substack (01:02:00) Painting and Remodeling Needs? Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 (01:02:30) Join Team Zen 3 Ways to Support Us Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Cathy and Todd discuss Gen X slang and intertwine the most popular phrases with clips from the most memorable pop culture moments. They discuss how language changes over time and break down the most popular Gen Z slang, offering suggestions on when to use it (or when not to). Todd and Cathy are hosting a live discussion about the “man or bear” debate on Monday, May 20th at 7pm CT through the MenLiving platform – all genders are welcome, see below for link to join. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Monday Night Wildcard- Why did “Man or Bear” Go Viral? (all genders) Donate to MenLiving Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:02:42) Join Team Zen (00:03:54) Sign up for Cathy’s Substack (00:09:38) Slang (00:36:40) Todd’s English class in high school ** (00:45:15) Gen Z Slang (00:46:00) You’re primitive ** (01:03:00) To Netflix and chill ** (00:48:32) Painting and Remodeling Needs? Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 3 Ways to Support Us Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Cathy and Todd discussed the viral “man or bear” debate, addressing why many women felt compelled to pick “bear” and why some men felt hurt or angry. They discussed the importance of listening and empathy when it comes to other people’s experiences and how being defensive might be our initial reaction, but we can choose compassion and understanding. They also discussed why opting out of something we don’t want to do makes room for the things we do want to do. Todd and Cathy are hosting a live discussion about the “man or bear” debate on Monday, May 20th at 7pm CT through the MenLiving platform – all genders are welcome, see below for link to join. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Monday Night Wildcard- Why did “Man or Bear” Go Viral? (all genders) Donate to MenLiving Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:00:52) Sign up for Cathy’s Substack (00:01:42) Join Team Zen (00:06:11) Cathy opting out ** (00:22:46) Man or bear (00:35:06) Get curious (00:38:52) Power over ** (00:48:32) Painting and Remodeling Needs? Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 3 Ways to Support Us Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Todd and Cathy discuss how to talk to kids in the morning without being too annoying. They also discuss when to use Gen Z slang and when not to, and why not “needing” too much from our kids makes us easier to talk to. They also discuss Taylor’s new album, the movie Swingers, and why pop culture makes for great conversation with our kids. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Donate to MenLiving Join Team Zen Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:00:41) Swingers- movie and lifestyle (00:01:56) Risky Business (00:04:20) Join Team Zen (00:06:45) Actors who are good athletes (00:10:08) The movie “Swingers” and parenting (00:21:53) Todd’s challenges in the morning *** (00:25:55) Sign up for Cathy’s Substack (00:29:45) Understanding teenage slang words (00:47:08) Just be authentic *** (00:52:20) The Bolter by Taylor Swift (00:55:00) Painting and Remodeling Needs? Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 3 Ways to Support Us Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Todd and Cathy discussed the importance of developing talents and the challenges of pursuing one’s passions. They also emphasized the need for understanding and empathizing when teenage boys lash out or question their belonging (they share an audioclip from Dr. John Duffy). They shared the difference between empathy and sympathy, and why it’s important to be really clear about what you need and ask for it. They ended the show by discussing the victim, villain, hero triangle and what it really means when you are ‘hero-ing’ someone. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Donate to MenLiving Join Team Zen Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:03:44) Passion vs Talent (00:27:14) Do our boys feel lost? (00:29:35) Join Team Zen (00:42:02) Empathy vs sympathy (00:48:25) Not letting it sit * (00:59:26) Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 3 Ways to Support Us Check out Zen Parenting Weekend 2024 Video Montage Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Cathy and Todd discuss the distinction between weaponized incompetence and regular incompetence, exploring how gender norms and societal expectations shape these ideas. They engage in real-time reflection on how they navigate these dynamics within their partnership and parenting, and they stress the need for communication and flexibility depending on the situation. This is a good episode to listen to with your partner or friends! Lots of issues to discuss and process. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Donate to MenLiving Join Team Zen Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:29:15) Join Team Zen (00:39:25) Cathy “I’m good at this” * (00:50:44) Seeing vs needing * (01:03:48) Weaponized incompetence ? through the lens of making the bed * (00:59:26) Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 3 Ways to Support Us Check out Zen Parenting Weekend 2024 Video Montage Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Todd and Cathy discuss two factors that make parenting feel more self-directed and understandable. While it will still be messy, unpredictable, and tiring, at least you will feel more in your integrity while doing it! They also talk about listening skills, anxiety, NCAA basketball, and Beyoncé’s new album. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Donate to MenLiving Join Team Zen MenLiving Eastern Advance Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:00:00) Intro (00:03:34) Tournament of Bad (00:10:24) 5 regrets of dying (00:15:30) The differences in the way we watch sports (00:29:06) The first secret to parenting (00:37:30) The second secret to parenting (00:38:05) Todd’s Starbuck’s story (00:40:11) Cathy’s late bus story (00:52:00) The 1 rule of parenting (00:59:26) Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 3 Ways to Support Us Check out Zen Parenting Weekend 2024 Video Montage Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Todd and Cathy discuss about how genuine curiosity helps our kids really hear us and value what we’re saying. The same goes for understanding each other in a partnership or empathizing with someone from a different gender perspective. When we’re open about not having all the answers, it paves the way for learning and staying connected. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Donate to MenLiving Join Team Zen MenLiving Eastern Advance Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:00:00) Intro (00:19:31) Team Zen (00:21:27) Can’t throw water at a closed door (00:26:24) Having a conversation with your kids about Sephora * (00:40:42) The greatness of Caitlin Clark- the difference ways of greatness * (00:48:41) Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 3 Ways to Support Us Check out Zen Parenting Weekend 2024 Video Montage Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Cathy and Todd discuss the importance of emotional conversations with our kids and why we need to pay attention to how we experience and perceive what our children are telling us. They discuss what kids really need from us when they are emotional and how we can support them without absolving or absorbing their pain. They also discuss Friday Night Videos and commercials from the 80’s. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen MenLiving Eastern Advance Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:00:00) Intro (00:12:54) The Do’s & Don’ts of Emotional Conversations (00:20:40) Cathy’s experience of parents at school presentations (00:30:08) Team Zen (00:35:03) The two phrases that can help (00:40:08) What to do when they dump all of their day right before you go to bed (00:42:00) How to prep for the emotional conversations (00:58:48) Todd’s vs Cathy’s default (01:03:23) Jeremy Kraft Avid Co- Jeremy Kraft the bald-headed beauty from Avid Co – Painting and remodeling for the western suburbs 630-956-1800 3 Ways to Support Us Check out Zen Parenting Weekend 2024 Video Montage Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Todd & Cathy discuss why it’s the ordinary moments that make us feel connected and content, and why what we end up missing are the simple things, not the big things. They also discuss the five things that make someone a Gen Xer, have a follow-up discussion about astrology and its usefulness, and Cathy talks about her new book RESTORING OUR GIRLS, coming in early 2025. Join Team Zen to hear Cathy & Todd’s talk about bringing genuine romance back into your relationship (3/18, 7 pm). For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen MenLiving Eastern Advance Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:01:22) ZPR Women’s March Madness Pool (00:08:06) Moment- Astrology (00:13:25) The warrior “bang bang” * (00:16:28) Tournament of Bad -Frustrations with kids and doordash (00:21:15) Workshop titled “Sephora Kids” (00:26:42) Team Zen (00:30:52) Restoring Our Girls Announcement (00:36:27) The Ordinary is the Extraordinary (01:00:05) Jeremy Kraft Avid Co- Jeremy Kraft the bald-headed beauty from Avid Co – Painting and remodeling for the western suburbs 630-956-1800 3 Ways to Support Us Check out Zen Parenting Weekend 2024 Video Montage Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Todd and Cathy discuss the stories we create about our lives and process whether or not we can reconsider our stories – not to deny reality, but to focus on what’s working rather than what’s lost. They also talk about role models for men, why it’s important to acknowledge every aspect of ourselves, what’s going on with Hall&Oates, and whether or not astrology is a science-based tool. Join Team Zen to hear Cathy & Todd’s talk about bringing genuine romance back into your relationship (3/18, 7 pm). For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources David Serrano Personal Financial Advisor Join Team Zen Monday Night Wildcard- True Romance (all genders) MenLiving Eastern Advance Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps (00:09:45) Ghosts- (00:15:19) Travis and Jason Kelse- healthy masculinity? (00:26:55) Zen Parenting Moment brought to you by David Serrano Financial Advisor Services 815-370-3780 (00:30:39) Stories and meaning we create (00:31:10) Team Zen (00:43:32) Astrology (01:02:10) Jeremy Kraft from Avid Co – Painting and remodeling for the western suburbs 630-956-1800 (00:09:45) Zen Parenting Moment brought to you by 815-370-3780 3 Ways to Support Us Check out Zen Parenting Weekend 2024 Video Montage Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Cathy and Todd discuss why we struggle to show up as fully ourselves in groups, and how we can get better at noticing this behavior. Then Todd says, “I’m just not feeling it” so they move into a pop culture conversation that seems to be about nothing, or maybe it was about a lot of little somethings including Bon Jovi, the members of New Edition, why stuffed animals are important, how Cathy got their daughter to stop stealing her brush, why Cathy’s college friends are so funny, and the importance of capybaras, cats, interrogation videos and gorillas on Reels & TikTok. Join Team Zen to hear Cathy & Todd’s talk about bringing genuine romance back into your relationship (3/18, 7 pm). For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources David Serrano Personal Financial Advisor Join Team Zen Monday Night Wildcard- True Romance (all genders) MenLiving Eastern Advance Avid Painting and Remodeling Time Stamps (00:05:56) Bad Medicine (00:09:45) Zen Parenting Moment brought to you by David Serrano Financial Advisor Services 815-370-3780 (00:14:54) Cool it now (00:16:37) Kids love to correct us (00:18:42) Kids need to conform (00:20:49) Cathy’s meditation area (00:24:53) Cathy’s trivia (00:27:42) A discussion about Monkey (00:36:25) Cathy laughs hard (00:39:43) Favorite animals (00:28:22) The show is about nothing (00:50:15) Monday Night Wildcard- True Romance (all genders) (00:51:35) Join Team Zen (00:52:48) MenLiving Eastern Advance 3 Ways to Support Us Check out Zen Parenting Weekend 2024 Video Montage Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Cathy and Todd discuss how our upbringing shapes our current approach to parenting, share why some traditional parenting tricks fall short, and attempt to redefine romance—it’s not just about grand gestures, but the heartfelt intentions behind them. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources David Serrano Personal Financial Advisor Join Team Zen WHY TIME-OUTS DON’T WORK – WHAT TO DO INSTEAD MenLiving Eastern Advance Time Stamps (00:03:43) Zen Parenting Moment brought to you by Financial Advisor David Serrano (00:09:18) Why timeouts don’t work (00:15:13) The should of motherhood (00:28:00) David Serrano Financial Advisor Services 815-370-3780 (00:28:54) Join Team Zen (00:29:58) Drinking in front of our kids (00:39:09) Being romantic (or not) 3 Ways to Support Us Check out Zen Parenting Weekend 2024 Video Montage Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Cathy and Todd discuss an article from The New York Times titled, ‘Parents Are Highly Involved in Their Adult Children’s Lives, and Fine With It,‘ explaining that staying intimately connected to our older children has benefits, not just risks, and most young adults agree. They discuss the perspectives of previous generations and why things have changed, as well as why it’s easy to stay connected due to devices and the research around effective parenting. They also discuss the fascination with OOTD (outfit of the day) and GRWM (get ready with me) on social media and how we can talk to our kids about comparison culture and self-worth. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources David Serrano Personal Financial Advisor Join Team Zen Parents Are Highly Involved in Their Adult Children’s Lives, and Fine With It Time Stamps (00:01:52) Zen Parenting Moment brought to you by Financial Advisor David Serrano (00:03:11) Secret love commercial (00:15:38) Macaroni & cheese (00:20:54) Parents Are Highly Involved in Their Adult Children’s Lives, and Fine With It (00:26:44) David Serrano Financial Advisor Services 815-370-3780 (00:27:38) Join Team Zen (00:28:50) Todd’s stories generation comparison 3 Ways to Support Us Check out Zen Parenting Weekend 2024 Video Montage Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Todd and Cathy talk with Author Nate Klemp about his new book, Open: Living with an Expansive Mind in a Distracted World. They discuss why technology is addictive and so appealing, and how it’s not our fault that we are attracted to screens and scrolling. They also discuss how being closed leads to polarization and conspiracy theories, while staying open reconnects us and helps us see the world in a new and more optimistic way. Nate shares his experiences with screen bingeing, psychedelic-assisted therapy, and meeting people who think differently, emphasizing the importance of being willing to have a conversation. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Open: Living with an Expansive Mind in a Distracted World Time Stamps (00:01:45) Defining open and closed (00:08:05) Why devices are good at holding our attention (00:9:50) 15 minute thinking in a room experiment (00:11:12) Screen seduction- It’s David vs Goliath (00:14:08) Gum surgery w/o anastesia (00:19:40) Two different ways to open (00:26:56) Acorn and the oak tree (00:30:47) David Serrano Financial Advisor Services 815-370-3780 (00:31:42) Join Team Zen (00:34:12) Psychedelics (00:51:40) Experience with the NRA 3 Ways to Support Us Check out Zen Parenting Weekend 2024 Video Montage Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Todd and Cathy discuss the explosion of online sports betting and why kids and teens are more likely to develop a gambling disorder than adults. They discuss the reasons why teens use it, how AI is being used to market at them, and how, just like weed, alcohol, and porn, it necessitates an ongoing conversation to make sure our kids understand how it works (not in their favor) and the possible consequences. They also discuss why setting boundaries is essential to practice true empathy and how the 2024 Grammys were a Gen X dream. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Time Stamps (00:03:04) Is too much empathy a bad thing? (00:08:05) Finding the middle * (00:17:27) On-line gambling (00:19:54) 60 minutes clip (00:30:00) David Serrano Financial Advisor Services 815-370-3780 (00:30:53) Join Team Zen (00:51:09) What parents need to know * (00:55:17 ) What the data suggests (00:58:12) What’s next * 3 Ways to Support Us Check out Zen Parenting Weekend 2024 Video Montage Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Todd and Cathy discuss the two types of messy conversations and explain why it’s important to know the difference if you want to connect with your kid. They discuss the awesomeness of Zen Parenting, 2024 and share some of the most important lessons learned. They also highlight the significance of knowing less, listening more, and discovering what ‘time well spent’ means. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Attend ZPR Conference 2024 Time Stamps (00:07:04) Messy Conversations (00:12:52) Statements/behaviors/beliefs that happen in a “closed/messy conversation” (00:28:26) Setbacks or failures? (00:29:11) Join Team Zen Circle (00:32:08) The good that comes from bad messy conversations 3 Ways to Support Us Check out Zen Parenting Weekend 2024 Video Montage Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

In Part Three of our three-part series with Dr. John Duffy, author of ‘Rescuing Our Sons,‘ John discusses why boys are more likely to experience school refusal, what they are learning from porn, why weed is their drug of choice, and offers some solutions to the boy crisis in America. Find Parts One and Two in the show notes. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Attend ZPR Conference 2024 Time Stamps (00:02:37) School refusal (00:10:17) Porn (00:12:39) HOCD- Homosexual Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (00:14:51) Weed (00:18:30) ZPR Conference (00:19:02) Join Team Zen Circle (00:21:54) Juul (00:24:37) School shooter (00:28:30) Solutions (00:32:55) Conclusion 3 Ways to Support Us Check out Zen Parenting Weekend 2024 Video Montage Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

In Part Two of our three-part series with Dr. John Duffy, author of ‘Rescuing Our Sons,’ John shares why emotional intelligence is crucial for boys. He tells a story about one of his clients who took a gender studies class and explores the ‘Taylor Swift effect,’ emphasizing why boys need more of this kind of joy. Find Part One in the show notes and tune in tomorrow for Part Three. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Attend ZPR Conference 2024 Time Stamps (00:07:42) Ryan’s story (00:14:06) ZPR Conference (00:14:36) Join Team Zen Circle (00:21:45) Emotional intelligence (00:23:26) Taylor Swift Effect (00:28:04) Growing up looking through men’s eyes 3 Ways to Support Us Check out Zen Parenting Weekend 2024 Video Montage Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Cathy and Todd interview Dr. John Duffy, author of ‘Rescuing Our Sons,’ discussing his book and the state of boys in America. In the first part of a three-part series, they explore John’s experiences while talking with boys during therapy, the reasons boys feel like they don’t belong, and the lack of male role models for boys today. Listen tomorrow for Part Two. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Attend ZPR Conference 2024 Time Stamps (00:02:43) Tournament of curious   3 Ways to Support Us Check out Zen Parenting Weekend 2024 Video Montage Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Cathy and Todd discuss the power of words and how their significance is subjective to the person using them. They focus on the necessity of being seen, emphasizing how the quality of our partnerships and parenting is influenced by our ability to truly see others. The discuss what it means to have a healthy relationship and share why anecdotal evidence may not always be conclusive. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Attend ZPR Conference 2024 Time Stamps (00:02:43) Tournament of curious (00:08:12) The Need to Be Seen Blog (00:026:14) See what I’m doing * (00:28:57) Kids rolling eyes* (00:31:25) Conference & Team Zen (00:33:05) The nuance of words… Healthy (00:53:15) The nuance of words… Abuse (01:04:35) The nuance of words… Empathy & Sympathy (01:05:59) The nuance of words… Celebration of life 3 Ways to Support Us Check out Zen Parenting Weekend 2024 Video Montage Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Cathy and Todd share the best clips from interviews with their friends Michelle Icard, Dr. Devorah Heitner, Dr. John Duffy, and Dr. Alexandra Solomon (they are all keynote speakers at Zen Parenting, 2024, Jan 26&27)! They also discuss the heightened skincare of teens, why we need so many sweatshirts, and why conflict is so common in our most important relationships. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Attend ZPR Conference 2024 Time Stamps (00:03:44) Tournament of Bad (00:04:08) Golden globes (00:04:54) Water bottles (00:06:24) face cream * (00:19:01) Dr. Devorah Heitner (00:23:40) Michelle Icard (00:31:35) Owen O’Keefe * (00:33:49) Dr. John Duffy (00:36:46) Dr. Alexandra Solomon (00:38:47) Todd & Cathy’s disconnector types * (00:50:50) You’re losing me- Taylor Swift * 3 Ways to Support Us Check out Zen Parenting Weekend 2024 Video Montage Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Todd and Cathy discuss why it’s important to process how the holidays went before moving forward—what worked, what didn’t, and what can be repaired or celebrated. They also focus on school refusal after the holidays, emotional labor during the holidays, and answer a question about what’s most important when raising boys. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Attend ZPR Conference 2024 Time Stamps (00:00:00) Introduction (00:03:40) Advice on raising boys (00:11:01) Purple turkey story (00:15:04) How did it go? (00:17:31) School refusal * (00:26:08) Zen Parenting Conference (00:26:36) Team Zen Circle (00:29:24) putting up the gate * (00:30:27) Cookie monster story * (00:36:38) Mom’s feel like they’re on an island 3 Ways to Support Us Check out Zen Parenting Weekend 2024 Video Montage Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Dr. Shefali returns to ZPR to discuss her new book The Parenting Map: Step-by-Step Solutions to Consciously Create the Ultimate Parent-Child Relationship. They discuss how to check our own egos, recognize our children’s psyches, and make connection the cornerstone of our parenting experience. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Attend ZPR Conference 2024 Time Stamps (00:00:00) Introduction (00:26:52) Zen Parenting 2024 Conference (00:27:24) Team Zen Circle 3 Ways to Support Us Check out Zen Parenting Weekend 2024 Video Montage Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Cathy and Todd discuss their favorite holiday movies, what makes them great, and whether or not they are truly holiday movies. They share clips from the best movies and finish with the top 20 best holiday movies of all time. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Join Team Zen Attend ZPR Conference 2024 Time Stamps (00:00:00) Introduction (00:02:10) Zen Parenting 2024 Conference (00:04:07) Cathy’s Moment- 4 reminders for the holidays (00:14:05) Litmus test for a holiday movie (00:22:22) Top 5 holiday movies (00:27:48) Team Zen Circle (00:28:54) Purple Rocket Podcast 3 Ways to Support Us Check out Zen Parenting Weekend 2024 Video Montage Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast    

Todd and Cathy talk with Michelle Icard, the author of ’14 Talks by Age 14′ and her new book, ‘8 Setbacks that Can Make a Child a Success.’ They discuss why we try to manage everyone’s emotions, the challenges of letting our kids experience failure, and how embracing these challenges can contribute to building their character and enabling them to navigate their own lives. For the full show notes, visit zenpopparenting.com. Resources Michelle Icard Join Team Zen Attend ZPR Conference 2024 Time Stamps (00:00:00) Introduction (00:13:04) Managing everybody’s emotions (00:19:45) Hero and rescuer energy (00:27:17) Zen Parenting 2024 Conference (00:27:48) Team Zen Circle (00:28:54) Purple Rocket Podcast (00:34:50) Son with braces for 6 years * 3 Ways to Support Us Check out Zen Parenting Weekend 2024 Video Montage Join Team Zen Subscribe to our YouTube Page Other Ways to Support Us Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube Facebook Buy and leave a review for Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile This week’s sponsor(s): Avid Co DuPage County Area Decorating, Painting, Remodeling by Avid Co includes kitchens, basements, bathrooms, flooring, tiling, fire and flood restoration. MenLiving – A virtual and in-person community of guys connecting deeply and living fully. No requirements, no creeds, no gurus, no judgements Todd Adams Life & Leadership Coaching for Guys Resources Ask Us Anything If You’ve Come this Far Podcast