Is "anger management" missing the point? In this provocative episode, therapist Anita Akers joins Christopher and Deb to flip conventional wisdom on its head. The conversation ignites when Deb declares anger management "stupid," leading to a fascinating exploration of how we've misunderstood this universal emotion. Discover the brain science behind emotional reactions, why telling someone to "calm down" never works, and practical strategies for helping children express their feelings appropriately. Whether you're navigating a four-year-old's tantrums or managing your own reactions, this conversation offers a liberating truth: it's not about managing emotions—it's about understanding them.

When divorce transforms a family, what happens to the children navigating this emotional terrain? In this compelling episode, mental health therapist Liz Wollmann demolishes common myths about "damaged children of divorce" while offering a framework for parents facing this challenging journey. Drawing from her extensive experience as a collaborative divorce coach and mediator, Liz delivers game-changing strategies that transform family transition into opportunity for growth. Whether you're contemplating divorce, currently separated, or supporting someone who is, this powerful conversation reveals exactly how parents can protect their children's emotional wellbeing while rebuilding their own lives. Don't miss this conversation on breaking cycles of conflict and creating stability for your children when everything else feels uncertain.

What happens when kids forget how to make friends in person? Experts reveal shocking examples of students unable to interact after weeks together—despite wearing nametags! Discover why intentional face-to-face relationships build crucial resilience that screens can't provide, and how adults can model meaningful connections. Beyond the digital divide, this conversation offers parents and educators practical hope for nurturing the social skills young people desperately need in today's disconnected world.

Are you sleeping all wrong? Boys Town psychologist Connie Schnoes joins hosts Christopher and Deb to shatter sleep myths that might be harming your health. With 27 years of sleep expertise, Connie reveals why getting less than seven hours of sleep impairs you like having a 0.08 blood alcohol level and increases your risk of illness by 50-60%. Discover why eight hours is non-negotiable, the truth about melatonin supplements, and why teenagers biologically can't fall asleep early despite school schedules demanding early mornings.

Ready for better rest? Submit your sleep questions to communications@plcschools.org by Monday, March 24 to be featured in our follow-up episode with Connie.

What makes a truly kind child? Discover the surprising science behind compassion with researcher Dr. Vicki Zakrzewski from UC Berkeley's Greater Good Science Center. Beyond empty "be nice" commands, learn practical ways to show your child the powerful difference between superficial politeness and genuine kindness. This eye-opening conversation reveals why teaching compassion creates not just nicer kids, but more successful and resilient ones too - perfect for parents who worry kindness might make their children vulnerable in a competitive world.

What if punishment isn't about control, but about connection? In this eye-opening episode, behavior coach Chad Nichols reveals how to shift from traditional discipline to teaching and understanding. Through real-world examples—from preschool meltdowns to teen dinner battles—learn practical ways to help your kids navigate challenges while building stronger family bonds. No complicated behavior charts or guilt trips, just strategies that actually work.

It's not about being the best, it's about being their best. Sounds simple, right? In this game-changing episode, 35-year education veteran Gretchen Kalkowski joins hosts Christopher and Deb to share why this subtle shift in thinking could transform your family's approach to learning. From a four-year-old's basketball adventures to a high schooler's calculus complaints, discover how letting go of the "perfect grade" chase can actually lead to better learning (and happier kids!). Whether you're wrestling with report cards or trying to build confidence in a struggling student, this episode offers a refreshing truth: real learning happens when we focus on progress, not perfection. Join us for an honest conversation that turns academic stress into family growth opportunities - no teaching degree required!

"My grandkids know more about AI than I do!" Is this your fear too? Don't worry - you're not alone. In this eye-opening episode, UNO's AI Learning Lab expert Cassie Mallette returns to flip the script on AI anxiety. Discover why having your child use AI for homework might actually sharpen their critical thinking (yes, really!), and why some students are surprisingly hesitant to use it at all. From classroom 'calculator rules' to future careers, get practical guidance on navigating our AI-powered world. Join hosts Christopher and Deb for a refreshingly honest conversation that transforms the family AI discussion from "should we be worried?" to "how can we use this together?"