Zen Parenting + Pop Culturing

Podcast Archive

Cathy and Todd discuss entitlement and how to better relate and understand our kids. They talk about the importance of intrinsic vs extrinsic motivation, why it takes kids time to change their behavior, and how to avoid using shame when communicating family values. For the full show notes, visit zenparentingradio.com. Timestamps (00:00:00) Introduction (00:03:37) Tournament of Bad- glasses/purse (00:05:57) Get him a body bag * (00:08:08) Entitlement (00:09:55) Michigan Marching Band (00:17:29) Examples of entitlement ...
Cathy and Todd discuss the loss of Matthew Perry and the significance of Chandler and the TV show “FRIENDS” for our generation. They also share strategies for addressing anxiety with children, focusing on normalizing, accepting, and preventing emotions from becoming overwhelming. For the full show notes, visit zenparentingradio.com. Timestamps (00:00:00) Introduction (00:02:45) Emasculation & men (00:11:19) Anxiety (00:23:11) “Write it down” technique (00:26:35) Other anxiety minimization techniques (00:29:49) Bill Hader on anxiety (00:33:02) Zen Parenting ...
Todd and Cathy discuss empathic listening and how to respond with curiosity and non-judgment when our kids ask difficult questions. Whether it pertains to conflicts abroad or everyday challenges, the capacity to listen to our children is something we can continuously improve over time. Additionally, our ability to understand our partner’s communication style and needs can help us avoid conflicts. For the full show notes, visit zenparentingradio.com. Timestamps (00:00:00) Introduction (00:01:55) Tournament of bad (00:04:16) ...
Cathy and Todd exchange quotes and mantras that remind them to stay in the moment, alleviate their anxiety, and prompt them to center their thoughts on gratitude. They discuss how they use these phrases and explore why our brains tend to fixate on what’s wrong rather than what’s already working.  For the full show notes, visit zenparentingradio.com. Timestamps (00:00:00) Introduction and the podcast’s motto. (00:00:37) Discussing Cathy’s meditation area, post-it notes, and the importance of ...
In this episode of Zen Parenting Radio, Todd and Cathy have a thoughtful conversation with Dr. Alexandra Solomon, a relationship expert and clinical psychologist. They discuss Dr. Solomon’s upcoming book, “Love Every Day,” providing listeners with helpful insights into love, relationships, and self-discovery. For the full show notes, visit zenparentingradio.com. Timestamps (00:00:00) Introduction (00:01:28) Relationships and marriage with Dr. Alexandra Solomon (00:02:00) A popular college course on intimate relationships (00:06:10) Daily book format and personal ...
Cathy and Todd revisit Stephen Covey’s “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” (1989) and discuss how each habit can help us improve our relationships with ourselves and our loved ones. They also explore why a paradigm shift is the key to reducing anxiety and enhancing our understanding of others.  For the full show notes, visit zenparentingradio.com. (00:00:00) Introduction: Aligning with Stephen Covey’s Principles (00:02:07) Everyday Parenting: Putting First Things First (00:06:00) Joining the Zen ...
Cathy and Todd talk with Jennifer Wallace about her New York Times Bestseller Never Enough: When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic – and What We Can Do About It. They discuss the definition of happiness and why parents feel so pressured to help their kids “succeed”. They also process the difference between extrinsic and intrinsic motivators, why interdependence changes our perspective, and why “mattering” is the key to family wellbeing. For the full show notes, visit ...
Cathy and Todd discuss the differences between ADHD in men and women and the reasons why so many adult women are getting diagnosed today. They do a follow up about highly sensitive people (HSP), discuss the #GRWM craze, and share an 80’s commercial that will get stuck in your brain. For the full show notes, visit zenparentingradio.com. 3 Ways to support us Check out Zen Parenting Weekend 2024 Video Montage Join Team Zen Subscribe to ...
In the latest episode of Pop Culturing hosted by Todd and Cathy Adams, they discuss the iconic movie “Field of Dreams.” Get ready for an entertaining and insightful journey as they bring their unique Gen X perspective to this classic film. From dissecting memorable one-liners to uncovering hidden gems and exploring the deeper themes of humanity, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves movies and personal growth. Join Todd and Cathy for a fun-filled ...
Todd and Cathy converse with Dr. Devorah Heitner, the author of “Screenwise” and her NEW book “Growing Up in Public.” They discuss the downsides and benefits of tracking your kids, whether it’s a good idea to read your kids’ texts, how to address the topic of sexting, and whether colleges are scrutinizing your kids’ posts. Her book is now available as of September 12th, and it’s a must-read! For the full show notes, visit zenparentingradio.com ...
Todd and Cathy discuss the three different types of perfectionism and why trying to perfect actually backfires and leads to fragility. They discuss why our culture has overvalued the idea of being perfect, the importance of humanizing over humiliating, and they answer a follow-up question about highly sensitive children. For the full show notes, visit zenparentingradio.com. Time Stamps (00:00:00) Introduction (00:06:15) How long do you let tantrums last for a six year old? (00:10:06) How ...
Cathy and Todd discuss the concept of being a highly sensitive person, and they explore how it feels to be a highly sensitive kid. They also address “ASK US ANYTHING” questions from listeners, offering guidance on how to talk to your kids about behavior modification charts in school (when they’re not used at home) and providing advice on how to relate to an irritable and uncooperative child. For the full show notes, visit zenparentingradio.com. Time ...
Cathy and Todd discuss Jack Kornfield’s advice for reducing anxiety, and how fear, history, and programming can make it more difficult. They process why back-to-school is particularly challenging for parents, and the simultaneous presence of joy and grief as children grow and transition. They are joined by Millie Hsi, a friend and member of their Team Zen virtual community, who shares her personal experiences and insights on coping with anxiety. For the full show notes, ...
Todd and Cathy welcome Shaun Emerson and Chris Lozier, hosts of the If You’ve Come This Far podcast. They discuss why it can be difficult to discuss men and women’s issues without getting defensive, and why statistics may point toward progress, but reality still feels imbalanced. They debate the effectiveness of frameworks and personality tests in personal growth, and how labels can be freeing but also stunting. They process how knowledge is vital, but transforming ...
Cathy and Todd, along with their children Jacey (20), Camryn (18), and Skylar (15), come together to engage in a discussion about Taylor Swift’s remarkable tour, “The Eras Tour.” This tour presents a mesmerizing musical odyssey that highlights Taylor Swift’s artistic growth, covering her expansive discography and distinct eras. Through captivating performances and intricate stage designs, Swift’s tour immerses fans in the distinctive sounds and aesthetics of each era. Taylor Alison Swift (born December 13, ...
Cathy and Todd discuss the many layers of Barbie and why it has become such a phenomenon and lightning rod when it comes to discussing gender differences. They share candidly about seeing each other’s perspectives, how to think critically, and how to bring our ‘whole’ selves into the viewing experience. They discuss why the movie is an existential crisis, a representation of girlhood and womanhood, and an absolute paradox all at the same time. This ...
Todd & Cathy talk with Hunter Clarke-Fields, Author of Raising Good Humans Every Day- 50 Simple Ways to Press Pause, Stay Present, and Connect with Your Kids.  They discuss Beginning Anew, find a thread, playing your own music, mindfulness, the messy, and not parentifying our kids. For the full show notes, visit zenparentingradio.com. 3 Ways to support us Subscribe to our YouTube Page Join Team Zen Buy Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and ...
Cathy & Todd discuss how our early experiences dictate our life patterns, and how we can recognize these patterns and decide what helps and what hurts. It’s all about honoring the memories and traditions that mean something to us, while also letting go of what no longer serves us. They also discuss the legacy of Madonna and how she shifted the musical landscape for women, and Todd’s hot take on the best baseball player of ...
Todd & Cathy talk with John O’Sullivan, Founder of the Changing the Game Project and host of the Way of Champions Podcast about his new book, The Champion Teammate: Timeless Lessons to Connect, Compete and Lead in Sports and Life. They discuss how to be a valued teammate, what it means to be a champion, and what it takes to connect, compete, and thrive in sports and life. What’s shared is applicable way beyond sports so it’s ...
Todd and Cathy discuss how co-opted therapy speak can make “love” more like control. They specifically discuss Jonah Hill’s ex-girlfriend sharing texts where he says he is enforcing his “boundaries” when he is actually giving her rules and ultimatums. They discuss how life is messy and everything is nuanced, and how Maya Angelou taught that love liberates, it doesn’t hold. For the full show notes, visit zenparentingradio.com. 3 Ways to support us Subscribe to our ...
Todd and Cathy discuss the difficult, but also transformational quality of change and how it teaches us to grow and trust life’s patterns. They answer a listener question about how to view their daughter’s outbursts and challenging behavior, and they share and process three quotes from Season 2 of The Bear – starting with Richie’s thought-provoking quote, “I’m not like this because I’m in Van Halen. I’m in Van Halen because I’m like this… For ...
Cathy and Todd discuss how to experience parenting challenges as part of the story rather than the entire story. They discuss how to zoom out and see the big picture, but also how to zoom in and experience compassion and connection with your kids. They process how to not take things personally, and how to recognize that we are all just watching our own movie. For the full show notes, visit zenparentingradio.com. Subscribe to our ...
Todd and Cathy discuss how we can talk to our kids about spirituality and self-trust, and why role modeling and patience can be the most effective tools. They discuss how to deal with anger, how to talk to our kids about anger, and how to utilize difficult emotions for deeper self awareness. For the full show notes, visit zenparentingradio.com. Connect with us! Join Team Zen Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment ...
Todd and Cathy Adams explore the themes of wonder, father-son relationships, vulnerability in parenting, and the enduring appeal of baseball in their heartfelt analysis of the movie “Field of Dreams,” emphasizing the importance of understanding and empathizing with parental figures and embracing the wonders of life. For the full show notes, visit zenparentingradio.com. Connect with us! Join Team Zen Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram ...
Cathy & Todd answer listener questions (about the practice of self-awareness, highly sensitive kids, and how to talk to our kids about every important thing before they graduate…) and they also discuss Taylor Swift, her popularity, and how she is connected to Full Catastrophe Living. For the full show notes, visit zenparentingradio.com. Connect with us! Join Team Zen Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Follow us on social media Instagram YouTube ...
Cathy and Todd discuss how codependency, enmeshment, narcissism, and lack of boundaries are weaved into Succession and the Logan family, and how we can be more self-aware about what we are role modeling and teaching our children. They also discuss the importance of internal and external validation and why no matter what happens to the Logan children, they will never be satisfied. For the full show notes, visit zenparentingradio.com. Connect with us! Join Team Zen ...
Cathy and Todd discuss how it’s not our kids’ job to support us, but we can encourage them to understand us. They also discuss the importance of self-compassion when parenting, why our boys need more male role models, and how to deal with change as our kids grow and graduate.  Link to Podcast Episode on our website. Connect with us! Join Team Zen Ask Us Anything! Subscribe to our Zen Parenting Radio YouTube channel Give ...
In the Part 2 of our conversation with Mike Domitrz, Founder of the Center for Respect, returns to discuss how to talk to our kids about porn, consent, and sexual assault. He shares how to simplify difficult topics and how to offer our kids a “lens” when it comes to porn and sex on television. He also shares why talking about sex becomes even more important as we age, why he doesn’t use statistics when ...
In the latest episode of Pop Culturing hosted by Todd and Cathy Adams, the dynamic duo discuss the movie ‘It’s Complicated’. Using their signature wit and humor, they analyze the film from a Gen X perspective, highlighting key moments and little-known facts. In addition, they delve into the underlying themes of the movie, exploring what it means to be human. It’s Complicated is a 2009 American romantic comedy film written and directed by Nancy Meyers. It stars Meryl Streep as a bakery ...
Mike Domitrz, Founder of the Center for Respect, returns to discuss how to talk to our kids about porn, consent, and sexual assault. He shares how to simplify difficult topics and how to offer our kids a “lens” when it comes to porn and sex on television. He also shares why talking about sex becomes even more important as we age, why he doesn’t use statistics when talking to groups, and how the bottom line ...
Cathy & Todd discuss swearing, its origins, and how to talk to your kids about its usage. They also discuss when and how to offer a heartfelt apology, and how to relate and understand other people’s experiences. Link to Podcast Episode on our website. Connect with us! Join Team Zen Ask Us Anything! Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Buy Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and ...
Cathy and Todd discuss the movies that matter most to them, and how they relate to self-awareness, integrity, and even parenting. They discuss how we can use pop culture to communicate and get to know our kids, and how their other podcast, Pop Culturing, is deep dive into Gen X movies and TV. Link to Podcast Episode on our website. Connect with us! Join Team Zen Ask Us Anything! Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile ...
In their latest episode, Todd and Cathy Adams explore the timeless romantic comedy About Last Night. As they dive into the film’s most iconic moments, the duo infuses their take on personal growth and self-awareness, touching upon the underlying themes of what it truly means to be human. Amidst the laughs and one-liners, listeners are in for an entertaining and insightful Gen X perspective on one of the most beloved rom-coms of all time. About ...
Todd & Cathy discuss evidence-based ways to be an effective leader and how to teach and demonstrate leadership to your children. They discuss the importance of early and ongoing social emotional learning, and how everything begins with self-awareness. They also process Adam Grant’s research around give and take, why knowing your “why” is important, and why feedback hits differently depending on your background and experience. Link to Podcast Episode on our website. Connect with us! ...

Three’s Company

In the latest episode of Pop Culturing, join Todd & Cathy Adams as they dive into the hilarious world of the iconic TV show, Three’s Company. With their unique blend of Gen X perspective and personal growth insights, they uncover the hidden themes of human connection and self-awareness amidst the laughter and one-liners that made the sitcom a classic. Tune in for a nostalgic, entertaining, and enlightening journey with your favorite pop culture duo! Three’s ...
Cathy and Todd discuss the research behind parenting styles and how it affects our communication and even our politics. They also discuss the “Tennessee Three” and how it relates to the difference between generations and how we are evolving (or not evolving) as people and as a country. They share a viral TikTok post from GradSchoolGramma that demonstrates what it really looks like parent in a self-aware, compassionate way, and mindful way.  Click here to ...
Cathy & Todd talk with author and educator Jessica Lahey about her book The Addiction Inoculation and the importance of Social Emotional Learning (SEL) when it comes to substance-use disorders, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence and regulation. They discuss the risk factors surrounding addiction and how genetics and culture play a role. Jessica shares what kids most need to hear from us and how we can create conversations about alcohol use, abuse, and the myths that ...

The Hangover (2009)

The Hangover is a 2009 American comedy film directed by Todd Phillips, co-produced with Daniel Goldberg, and written by Jon Lucas and Scott Moore. It is the first installment in The Hangover trilogy. The film stars Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, Zach Galifianakis, Heather Graham, Justin Bartha, Ken Jeong, and Jeffrey Tambor. It tells the story of Phil Wenneck (Cooper), Stu Price (Helms), Alan Garner (Galifianakis), and Doug Billings (Bartha), who travel to Las Vegas for ...
Cathy and Todd answer listeners question about what to do when life gets messy, unpredictable, and uncertain. They discuss movies to bring the family together, how to support our children who are dealing with friend issues, and how to figure out what “fair” means over and over again. Link to Podcast Episode on our website. Connect with us! Join Team Zen Ask Us Anything! Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen ...

Grease (1978)

Todd & Cathy return for the 1978 classic Grease. how to increase your pull-up count without actually having to do pull-ups eminence labs tech suits for 12-under banned by usa swimming, except junior national qualifiers – swimming world news Grease is a 1978 American musical romantic comedy film directed by Randal Kleiser (in his feature directorial debut) from a screenplay by Bronté Woodard and an adaptation by Allan Carr, based on the stage musical of ...
Todd & Cathy talk with Michelle Anderson and Lauren Massarella from The Sister Project. They discuss the hygge lifestyle (a Danish word that loosely translates as cozy, comfy, and overall wellness), parenting, birth, and women’s health. Cathy, Michelle and Lauren lost their moms to dementia, so they discuss what it’s like to care for someone with dementia and how to support them through the process of death. They discuss the pain and beauty of grief ...
Cathy & Todd discuss 4 invitations to being a positive parent. They discuss 1) What do we want for our kids? 2) Relationship b/w EQ (Emotional intelligence) IQ (Intelligence Quotient) & BQ (Body Intelligence) 3) When we cop out 4) Discussion, not discipline. Link to Podcast Episode on our website. Ask Us Anything Understanding Our Daughters Connect with us! Join Team Zen Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment ...
Cathy & Todd celebrate their 700th episode by discussing the universal principles of Zen Parenting, the importance of civil conversation, and what has remained the same for the last 12 years. Part 1 of 2. Link to Podcast Episode on our website. Ask Us Anything Understanding Our Daughters Connect with us! Join Team Zen Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Buy Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves ...
Todd & Cathy discuss the different aspects of self-compassion and take the quiz to see who is more self-compassionate.  They also talk about the movie Grease & Mr. Rogers. Connect with us! Join Team Zen Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Buy Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World Find everything ZPR on our Resources Page Emotional Labor Checklist This week’s ...
Todd & Cathy share how their roles have changed over the years and who does what around the house. They discuss the importance of communication around household expectations, and how roles are supposed to evolve and change as the kids grow. The discuss how invisible labor can be overlooked and why not everything we “do” can be found on a checklist. Connect with us! Join Team Zen Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile Subscribe to ...
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 (available for preorder NOW, released on 2/28). They discuss how to check our own egos, recognize our children’s psyches, and make connection the cornerstone of our parenting experience. Dr. Shefali is hosting a FREE Parenting Mastery Online Summit with 30 Global Experts (Cathy is one of them!). Click here to register. Connect with ...
Cathy & Todd discuss how our children learn by watching how we live and how we react, and why owning our emotional responses creates connection and opportunity for learning. They discuss the difference between responding and reacting (especially when it comes to anger), why “do what I say, not what I do” doesn’t land well, and why comparing our childhood experiences is like apples and oranges. Connect with us! Join Team Zen Guys- Complete a ...
Cathy & Todd discuss how we handle trauma, why boys are falling behind in school, and why the emotional intelligence of fathers is essential for cultural change. They also share a personal example of conflict, listening, and repair, and why self-compassion is essential if we are going to communicate effectively. Connect with us! Join Team Zen Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Buy Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring ...
Todd & Cathy discuss ways to engage in deeper conversation with teenage boys, and how every suggestion is helpful to all relationships and conversations. They also discuss Prince Harry’s new book Spare, and how he learned to deal with “hover monkeys” and “mind squirrels” when becoming an Apache helicopter pilot. While his experience is unique, what he learned is helpful to all of us. Connect with us! Join Team Zen Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect ...
Cathy and Todd discuss the passing of Cathy’s mom, Cathy’s recent diagnosis and surgery, and how they support each other in a crisis. They discuss their patterns of behavior, what they need from each other, and why showing up for each other in crisis can be difficult. Connect with us! Join Team Zen Guys- Complete a MenLiving Connect profile Subscribe to Cathy’s weekly Zen Parenting Moment Buy Cathy’s Book Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and ...