Zen Parenting MomentYour inbox needs more hopeful and helpful moments.
Zen Parenting + Pop Culturing
Podcast Archive
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 zenparentingradio.com. Some Ways ...
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 zenparentingradio.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 ...
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 zenparentingradio.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 ...
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 zenparentingradio.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 ...
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 zenparentingradio.com. Resources Join Team Zen Want a more intimate relationship? Why “Noticing” is Essential ...
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 zenparentingradio.com. Resources Join Team Zen Want a more intimate relationship? Why “Noticing” is Essential ...
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 ...
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 zenparentingradio.com. Resources Join ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 zenparentingradio.com. Resources ...
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 zenparentingradio.com. Resources Other Emotional Labor Podcasts Women Aren’t Nags, We’re Fed Up- 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 ...
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 zenparentingradio.com. Resources Join Team Zen Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Avid Painting ...
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, ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 zenparentingradio.com. Resources Join Team Zen Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Monday Night ...
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 zenparentingradio.com. Resources Join Team Zen Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Monday ...
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 – ...
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 ...
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 zenparentingradio.com. Resources Donate to MenLiving ...
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, ...
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 ...
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 zenparentingradio.com. Resources Donate to MenLiving Join Team Zen MenLiving Eastern Advance Jeremy Kraft from Avid Painting and Remodeling 630-956-1800 Time Stamps ...
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 zenparentingradio.com. Resources Donate to MenLiving Join Team Zen MenLiving Eastern Advance Jeremy Kraft ...
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 zenparentingradio.com. Resources Join ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 zenparentingradio.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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 zenparentingradio.com. Resources Join Team Zen Attend ZPR Conference ...
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 zenparentingradio.com. Resources Join Team Zen Attend ZPR Conference 2024 Time ...
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, ...
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 zenparentingradio.com. Resources Join Team Zen Attend ...
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 zenparentingradio.com. Resources Join Team ...
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 zenparentingradio.com. Resources Join Team Zen Attend ZPR Conference 2024 ...
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 zenparentingradio.com. Resources Join Team Zen Attend ZPR Conference 2024 Time Stamps (00:00:00) Introduction (00:03:40) Advice on raising boys ...
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 zenparentingradio.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 ...
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 zenparentingradio.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 ...
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 zenparentingradio.com. Resources Michelle Icard Join ...
Todd and Cathy discuss gender norms and explore ways to validate, acknowledge, and challenge them. They also dive into the comedy of Nate Bargatze, highlighting its observational nature that prompts thought and reflection. For the full show notes, visit zenparentingradio.com. Resources 12/14/23 7:00 PM Rescuing Our Boys: A Q & A with Dr. John Duffy Rescuing Our Sons: 8 Solutions to Our Crisis of Disaffected Teen Boys Join Team Zen Attend ZPR Conference 2024 Time ...
Cathy and Todd discuss how to create strong support systems for our kids, allowing them to have new and unique experiences and build relationships that contribute to their self-understanding. Teaching them about boundaries, encouraging them to ask for help, and making sure they know it’s totally okay to speak up if something feels off give them the confidence to trust themselves, even when you’re not right there with them. For the full show notes, visit ...
Todd and Cathy dive deep into some quotes about gratitude and explore how to incorporate gratitude into our everyday and ordinary lives. They also answer some listener’s questions and play clips from Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (the best Thanksgiving movie!) and Nate Bargatze’s stand-up. For the full show notes, visit zenparentingradio.com. Timestamps (00:00:00) Introduction (00:02:12)- neurobiology of gratitude (00:12:21) JFK Quote (00:13:15) Listening * (00:25:35) AUA (Ask Us Anything) teenage boy not up for chores ...
Cathy and Todd talk with Patrice Lenowitz, Executive Director of The Nurtured Parent, domestic abuse survivor, victims’ rights advocate, activist, and mother of Max, who tragically died of fentanyl poisoning in 2022. Patrice is now on a mission to raise awareness around Fentanyl Poisoning through legislation and education and to help parents understand why and how kids are exposed. She also talks about the importance of supporting our youth when it comes to trauma, anxiety, ...
