Zen Parenting + Pop Culturing

Podcast Archive

Cathy and Todd talk about suffering and why we either transform it, or we transmit it (quote taken from Richard Rohr). They also discuss why it’s important to celebrate young women, why talking about sexuality is so important, why tampons and pads have a “luxury” tax, and what it means to be in the “8:30 club”. The first three people to purchase Cathy’s award–winning book, Living What You Want Your Kids to Learn through the ...
We’ve been inundated with listener questions so we decided to dedicate an entire show to answering them.  Below are the topics as well as the time stamps for each question: 3:15 Chakras and toddlerhood 14:42 Step-parents and an 8 year old with a huge personality 23:52 Preschool drop-off 30:22 Spanking 36:28 2 year old son with tantrums 43:25 Top 10 books We also mentioned a podcast that would be helpful for step parents which can ...
Cathy and Todd discuss an article from the Chicago Tribune about getting rid of emotional and mental clutter. They process the devastation around Prince’s death, but Todd thinks he has alexithemia because he’s not as sad as everyone else. They also talk travel sports, small breakdowns, and Caddyshack. Zen Gets Real 2016 Conference tickets are now on sale. Zen Gets Real Attendee And Sponsorship Information Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn won ...
In part two of our interview with Dr. Therese Rowley, Therese says Cathy has “clairsentience”, she challenges me to remove some of my built-up walls, and she offers some calming activities for kids and parents. Find Dr. Rowley at http://thereserowley.com/. Does your child seem intuitive, gifted, or sensitive? Cathy and Todd talk with Dr. Therese Rowley, author, consultant, skilled intuitive and innovative educator who challenges us to see sensitive children through a new lens. This is ...
Cathy and Todd explain how negative experiences stick immediately, but it takes 15 seconds of savoring a positive experience for it to imprint on the brain. They also discuss why judging or fighting someone doesn’t create change. Instead, we can recognize negative behavior and then role model a more rational and kind way to interact. A listener asks a question about work/life balance and they provide insight and resources. Zen Gets Real 2016 Conference tickets ...
Does your child seem intuitive, gifted, or sensitive? Cathy and Todd talk with Dr. Therese Rowley, author, consultant, skilled intuitive and innovative educator who challenges us to see sensitive children through a new lens. This is part one of a two-part interview (part two will be posted next Friday). – See more at: https://zenparentingradio.com/ Dr. Rowley is hosting a 12 week class and mastermind group for parents of children called “old souls.”  Find out more by ...
Cathy and Todd discuss the importance of “emotional hygiene” (as explained by the Dalai Lama) and why boundaries lead to more compassion (as explained by Brenè Brown). They also discuss how we can  subtlety (and often unconsciously) shame our kids, and how to become more aware of why and how we say things. Zen Gets Real 2016 Conference tickets are now on sale. Zen Gets Real Attendee And Sponsorship Information Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You ...
Cathy and Todd discuss the 60 Minutes report about the prison system in Germany and how they put rehabilitation above retribution. They also discuss the article in The Atlantic about punish-free parenting, Rocky Balboa’s great advice, and Tim McGraw’s Humble and Kind performance. Zen Gets Real 2016 Conference tickets are now on sale. Zen Gets Real Attendee And Sponsorship Information Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn won the National Indie Excellence Award!Go here to ...
Cathy and Todd discuss how emotional intelligence and “cognitive control” lead to our ability to be kind. They also discuss the relationship between EQ, grit, and resilience, and why paying attention is the essential factor. Cathy and Todd will be focusing on kindness the entire month of April, starting with a talk on Tuesday, April 6th at Fitz’s Spare Keys at 7 pm titled Teaching Kids to Be Kind. Click here to register. Cathy’s 3rd book, Living ...
Cathy and Todd discuss self regulation and self organization and why it’s essential for self understanding and relationship building. They discuss the definition of the mind, how the brain processes emotion, and why the brain can always learn new things (neuroplasticity). They also discuss the hilarity and absurdity of the Walk of Life Project. Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn won the National Indie Excellence Award!Go here to order your book. Click the following ...
We interview Bill Dwight, the Founder of Famzoo.com.  Famzoo is an online family banking designed for kids, teens, and parents. With this amazing resource, it makes it easier for families earn, save, budget , and spend.  We’ve been utilizing Famzoo for several months and have loved it.  Listen in to help teach your children the power of money. To learn more about Famzoo- click on the Famzoo link on the lower right hand side of zenparentingradio.com  Make sure ...
Cathy and Todd discuss their experience at the Zen Parenting Conference, they process why it’s important to be curious about your fear, and they answer a listener’s question about feeling continuously triggered by negative people. Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn won the National Indie Excellence Award!Go here to order your book. Click the following links to purchase Cathy’s books The Self-Aware Parent Part 1  & and Part 2 The Tribe Men’s group Tree of Life Chiropractic Care ...
Cathy and Todd discuss the definition of diplomacy and why it’s important in parenting as well as in government (micro and macro level). They also discuss the true and false self (as explained by D.W. Winnicott) and why the true self is the key to our integrity, compassion, and connection to others. Zen Gets Real 2016 Conference tickets are now on sale. Zen Gets Real Attendee And Sponsorship Information Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want ...
This is Part 2 of this discussion, Part 1 aired on March 1st and can be found @ https://zenparentingradio.com/292 Cathy and Todd discuss the many issues raised at the Academy Awards (race, sexual assault, sexual abuse, the environment), why they are necessary to discuss, and what each of us can do to be more empathetic, open, and aware. This is Part 1 of a two-part discussion.  Other links mentioned in this podcast: Zen Gets Real 2016 ...
Cathy and Todd discuss the many issues raised at the Academy Awards (race, sexual assault, sexual abuse, the environment), why they are necessary to discuss, and what each of us can do to be more empathetic, open, and aware. This is Part 1 of a two-part discussion (Part 2 will air on Friday).  Other links mentioned in this podcast: One of our partners @ The Zen Gets Real Conference – Conscious Stories  Lady Gaga perfomrance ...
Todd and Cathy discuss the literal and spiritual definition of grow or die, and share why this universal wisdom keeps us in alignment with ourselves and others. They also discuss the brain of an introvert and how it differs from an extrovert (click here to see the illustrations). Zen Gets Real 2016 Conference tickets are now on sale. Zen Gets Real Attendee And Sponsorship Information Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn won ...
Staying connected and a changing school system Cathy and Todd discuss why our relationship with our children needs to change and evolve as they age, and why it’s important to be creative in maintaining a connection. They also discuss major changes in the college admission process and how this will effect our children’s high school experience. Zen Gets Real 2016 Conference tickets are now on sale. Zen Gets Real Attendee And Sponsorship Information Cathy’s 3rd ...
This podcast is a replay of an interview we did with Dr. Shefali Tsabary who is our keynote speaker @ the Zen Gets Real Conference on March 11th and 12th.  We hope to see you there!!!! We interview Dr. Shefali Tsabary the author of the The Conscious Parent (with a forward written by the Dalai Lama) and her new book Out of Control  which questions why and how we discipline children. Some of the issues ...
[et_pb_section admin_label=”section”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” saved_tabs=”all” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” text_font_size=”14″] This podcast is a replay of an interview we did with Dr. Shefali Tsabary who is our keynote speaker @ the Zen Gets Real Conference on March 11th and 12th.  We hope to see you there!!!! We interview Dr. Shefali Tsabary the author of the The Conscious Parent (with a forward written by the Dalai Lama) and her new book Out of Control  ...
Cathy and Todd discuss why wellness is more important than dollars, and why journalists who present both sides of a story keep us open and connected. They also discuss the friendship between Scalia and Ginsburg, why compassion in essential in all situations, and the tools we need to manage our anger. http://beyonddifferences.org/ Supplements and Safety League of Denial: The NFL’s Concussion Crisis Zen Gets Real 2016 Conference tickets are now on sale. Zen Gets Real ...
We speak with the Founder of Changing The Game Project John O’Sullivan.  Their mission is to ensure that we return youth sports to our children, and put the ‘play’ back in ‘play ball.’  For every Tiger Woods and Andre Aggassi, there are thousands of others who are in it for the fun (until the adults take the fun out of it.) Some other topics discussed: Positive vs. negative reinforcement Keeping youth sports in perspective The ...
Cathy and Todd discuss relationship “levels” (as explained by Tony Robbins) and how we can communicate and become better partners. They discuss how these levels can apply to our children and other relationships, and how we can be supportive and connected rather than enabling. Zen Gets Real 2016 Conference tickets are now on sale. Zen Gets Real Attendee And Sponsorship Information Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn won the National Indie Excellence ...
This is a follow-up interview from a podcast we did in October of 2014 titled Setting Boundaries With Love (Interview begins @ the 21:00 minute mark) At the time, Rick’s wife Trish was battling with a rare form of Hydrocephalus and in need of exposure to raise funds for the medical expenses that came with this journey.  We were happy to oblige. Fast forward to February of 2016 and we pick up where we left off in October ...
Cathy and Todd discuss “doing your best” and why the definition of “best” is defined by the individual. They also discuss The Four Agreements, The Karate Kid, Best in Show, Inside Out, Canada’s Prime Minister, and why Flint Michigan is so heartbreaking. They reference the following things: Flint, MI Inside Out The Karate Kid, Funny or Die Canadian Prime Minister, feminism The Four Agreements Zen Gets Real 2016 Conference tickets are now on sale. Zen ...
1st time author Charlie Donlea shares his experience of bringing his dream of being a pubished author of his own suspense thriller into reality.  His journey began all the way back in 2001 when he started his first manuscript.  Perservering through many failures, obstacles, and challenges, Charlie never gave up on his dream.  In this provactive interview, we explore inside the mind of Charlie to find out why he kept going even though all signs told ...
Todd and Cathy discuss how using certain words can turn people off, and using other, more inclusive words can build connectedness. They also discuss the most important thing Tim Robbin’s learned from his parents, the mysteriousness of the universe, and answer a few listener questions regarding an introverted eight year old boy and sibling who “parents” differently. They reference the following things: Off Camera with Sam Jones (Tim Robbins interview) Science Increasingly Makes the Case ...
Cathy and Todd discuss “spiritual ego” and why many teachers develop a sense of “specialness” around their knowledge or awareness. This can lead to a desire for power rather than an ability to live the message. They also discuss a listener question about how to talk to teens about drugs. They reference the following things: Anusara Yoga Spotlight The Big Short HGNA Zen Gets Real 2016 Conference tickets are now on sale. Zen Gets Real ...
Cathy and Todd welcome back Tara Mohr, author of Playing Big and expert on women’s leadership and well-being. Tara explains what a “calling” really means, and she shares how women can communicate more effectively in the workplace and at home. Tara’s book is now in paperback – you can read more about her at taramohr.com. Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tarasmohr/ Twitter: @tarasophia Tara Mohr is an expert on women’s leadership and well-being, helping women play bigger in sharing their voices and ...
Cathy and Todd discuss autonomous growth and relational growth and process why they are both essential. They talk with Rita Hyland, coach and creator of the “It’s My Year” master course. They also discuss the impact and passing of David Bowie, answer a listener question, and explain how to meet your goals through “temptation bundling”. The reference the following books, blogs, quotes, and people: Alanis Morrisette podcast Harville Hendrix and Helen LaKelly Hunt Rita Hyland Freakonomics ...
Cathy and Todd talk with Kenji Oyasu, Executive Medical Director of the Brightside, a clinic dedicated to the treatment of prescription drugs and heroin addiction. He offers new insight to why this addiction is so deadly, why it can be a challenge to treat, and the new model of recovery that is offering hope and changing lives. Other Resources Zen Gets Real 2016 Conference tickets are now on sale.  Coupon code- “Zenfriend” expires Christmas Eve Zen Gets Real ...
Cathy and Todd discuss the things that can impress us this year versus the things that typically impress us (money, labels, “likes”). They also share how they handled their daughter’s desire to watch a scary movie, and they answer a listener’s question about what to do when a teenager is making poor choices. They reference the following blogs, books, quotes, and people: Being minimalist blog Shining Shakti Cathy Richardson The Sixth Sense Frankie Goes to ...
Cathy and Todd discuss how we can stay connected and curious about our kids lives. They also share a new perspective on being busy, and why contemplation is more important than “doing”. They reference the following books, blogs and quotes: Anna Quindlen’s book Loud and Clear. A blog titled Busy Is A Sickness by Scott Dannemiller The Victor Hugo quote – “To contemplate is to toil, to think is to do”. Randy Pauch’s book The ...
Cathy and Todd discuss four gifts you can give yourself for the holidays and throughout 2016, and the mindfulness wisdom of Bill Murray and Billy Corgan. Zen Gets Real 2016 Conference tickets are now on sale.  Coupon code- “Zenfriend” expires Christmas Eve Zen Gets Real Attendee And Sponsorship Information Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn won the National Indie Excellence Award!Go here to order your book. Click the following links to purchase Cathy’s books The ...
Cathy and Todd discuss the difference between the circle of influence and the circle of concern, and which one can actually change the world. They also discuss why worry isn’t necessary, how to make your newsfeeds more enjoyable, and how we can turn despair into hope. Zen Gets Real 2016 Conference tickets are now on sale.  Coupon code- “Zenfriend” expires Christmas Eve Zen Gets Real Attendee And Sponsorship Information Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want ...
Todd and Cathy talk to Jay Smith, creator of the MacGill First Aid Kit. While planning for an upcoming vacation, Jay has trouble finding a kit with all of the essential emergency supplies – so he MADE one. It’s an ideal holiday gift, and you can use coupon code zencode for a discount (Cathy and Todd have already bought three!). Jay also asks a question about his daughter’s recent jealously of her stepmom, and Cathy and ...
Cathy and Todd discuss the importance of character and reference David Brooks’ new book The Road to Character. They also discuss suffering, getting your “loves” in order, and why their house felt like a scene from European Vacation this weekend. Zen Gets Real 2016 Conference tickets are now on sale.  Coupon code- “Zenfriend” expires Christmas Eve Zen Gets Real Attendee And Sponsorship Information Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn won the National ...
Todd and Cathy discuss the pressure children feel around homework and how we can support them rather than increase their anxiety. They process the meaning of inner disarmerment and why this individual practice will lead to a change in our immediate surroundings and world (outer disarmerment). They also discuss Mr. Mom, the Rocky movies, and Todds new coaching education. Our Whole Village– Our mission is to empower parents to raise mindful and globally responsible kids by ...
Cathy and Todd discuss why it’s important to stay expand when we are in fear or crisis rather than contract and shut down. We have the capacity to function and make heart-centered choices even when we are afraid. They also discuss Mockingjay Part 2, Planes, Trains, and Automobiles, and a great question from a listener regarding the many different paths to “success”. Zen Gets Real 2016 Conference tickets are now on sale. Zen Gets Real ...
Cathy and Todd discuss talking to kids about tragic events such as the recent terrorist attack. They also discuss Elizabeth Stitt’s blog 10 things every middle schooler should know, and answer a few listener questions about sensitivity and technology. Click here to read Cathy’s blog about what to do after Paris. Zen Gets Real 2016 Conference tickets are now on sale. Zen Gets Real Attendee And Sponsorship Information An opportunity to listen and ask questions ...
Cathy and Todd discuss why children like to have something of their own to feel “special”, and why it helps to normalize these feelings rather than shame them into thinking differently. They also discuss why normalizing feelings is reliant on the parent’s self understanding, and why it’s important to frame the world, experiences, and opportunities as abundant rather than limited. “Let there be spaces in your togetherness, And let the winds of the heavens dance ...
In the 2nd half of this interview with Dr. Duffy, we talk about issues specific to teen-agers and our the topics covered includes empowering our sons, Brene Brown, and how to “manage” the boys who come to take out your teenage daughter.  HINT- It does not include a shotgun over the fireplace and other difficulties of being a teenager in this day and age.  You can learn more about John Duffy @ http://drjohnduffy.com/ Other Resources Zen ...
Todd and Cathy discuss criticism, why it hurts so much and why it’s an inevitable part of life. They discuss why it’s important to speak up, even in the face of criticism, and how to offer constructive criticism rather than blame and guilt. They share personal stories about how they talk to each other about their pain, and why most of the pain stems from childhood. They discuss the wisdom of Elizabeth Gilbert and cartoonist Lynda ...
That is a quote from Dr. Duffy who visits us again in this two-part interview.  We talk about issues specific to teen-agers and our the topics covered includes suicide, drugs and alcohol, technology, depression, and the difficulties of being a teenager in this day and age.   You can learn more about John Duffy @ http://drjohnduffy.com/ Zen Gets Real 2016 Conference tickets are now on sale. Zen Gets Real Attendee And Sponsorship Information An opportunity to listen and ask ...
Cathy and Todd share some reactions to their kids behavior, why it’s important to recognize how you feel before your respond, and why understanding your response will keep you self-aware. They also discuss privilege, their upcoming interview with Dr. John Duffy, and why Todd thinks he’s being duped by strawberry companies. Zen Gets Real 2016 Conference tickets are now on sale. Zen Gets Real Attendee And Sponsorship Information An opportunity to listen and ask questions ...
Cathy and Todd discuss what it means to live above and below the line, a consciousness tool taught by Jim Dethmer from the Conscious Leadership Group. Above the line means you think from a place of abundance, creativity, and openness, while below the line means you think defensively and rigidly and with a constant need to be right. This understanding affects our understanding of the workplace, our parenting, and most importantly ourselves. Conscious Ledership Group ...
Cathy and Todd discuss the importance of grieving, the value of “keening”, and a listener asks a question steming from Susan Stiffelman’s book, Parenting with Presence. Todd shares his favorite quote about personal responsibility, Cathy tells a serendipitous story about the conference she attended, and they somehow work in Six Feet Under and Terminator 2. Zen Gets Real 2016 Conference tickets are now on sale. Zen Gets Real Attendee And Sponsorship Information An opportunity to listen ...
Cathy and Todd discuss why it can be challenging for families when kids are involved in youth team sports or travel leagues. They also discuss why valuing relationship above all else will make decision making so much easier, and why leaders who value relationship are the most successful. John O’Sullivan will be speaking about this @ the Let’s Get Real Conference in March.  His interview with us can be found @ https://zenparentingradio.com/osullivan/ and his Ted Talk ...
Cathy and Todd discuss the effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and why it’s more powerful than just focusing on behavior. They also discuss Tara Mohr’s five new takeaways about mindfulness and lovingkindness, and why Elizabeth Gilbert thinks fear is “boring”. Zen Gets Real 2016 Conference tickets are now on sale. Zen Gets Real Attendee And Sponsorship Information An opportunity to listen and ask questions about the things that really matter in a safe and enjoyable ...
Cathy and Todd share the words of a 6-year-old girl who wants her divorced parents to stop fighting. She offers wisdom beyond her years, and wakes us up to what children know and what we need to remember. Her words are a form of grace, and being open to her words will deepen your awareness and remind you that grace often comes from the most uncommon places – other people, a sunset, an animal, or ...
Cathy and Todd discuss the life-changing mindfulness research of Ellen Langer, author and professor from Harvard who has been researching mindfulness (and mindlessness) since the 70’s. She defines mindfulness as paying attention and being able to notice new things, while recognizing that experiences are based on the words and ideas that we attach to them. Ellen Langer was interviewed by Krista Tippet for the On Being Podcast. We read an excerpt from Videographer/Storyteller Shawn Boyle ...