エピソード

  • Ep.278: She Was the Perfect Student—And Secretly Depressed

    Ep.278: She Was the Perfect Student—And Secretly Depressed
    2025/06/06
    What happens when a high-achieving, all-American girl is silently battling depression? In this powerful episode, Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with Allie Marie Smith, life coach, speaker, and author of Social Media Reset, to explore how the pressure to be perfect—and the influence of social media—nearly led her to end her life. Allie shares her story of growing up in Silicon Valley, struggling with hidden sadness from a young age, and reaching a breaking point as a teen. She opens up about the moment that changed everything near the Golden Gate Bridge, her journey back to mental health through faith, and how stepping away from social media helped her reclaim her joy. As summer begins and screen time skyrockets, this episode offers an honest and hopeful conversation about the emotional impact of social media on kids and teens—and how families can move toward healing, connection, and purpose. In This Episode: Allie’s story of hidden depression behind straight A’s and smiles How social media deepened her struggle—and what changed when she unplugged The myth of “they look fine”—and how to see beneath the surface How faith and mental health support saved her life The dangers of unchecked social media: from self-harm to trafficking What parents need to understand about screen time this summer How Allie’s nonprofit Wonderfully Made is helping the next generation reclaim joy and identity Join Our New Parenting Community — FREE! Get access to webinars, mini-courses, exclusive content, a private forum to connect with other parents, and so much more. Start parenting with more confidence and real support: ⁠meekerparenting.com⁠ About Allie Marie Smith Allie Marie Smith is the author of Social Media Reset: A 30-Day Guided Journey to Unplug, Reconnect with God, and Reclaim Your Joy and founder of Wonderfully Made, a faith-based nonprofit equipping girls and women with resources for mental health, identity, and purpose. Her mission is to help young people break free from the pressure of perfection and discover their God-given worth. Sponsored by: Hungryroot – 40% off + a free item in every box at ⁠hungryroot.com/drmeg⁠ (code DRMEG) Acorns – Start investing with spare change: ⁠acorns.com/drmeg⁠ Sponsored by Rula — Therapy should be affordable and covered by insurance. Rula connects you with licensed therapists based on your needs—and works with over 100 insurance plans. Get started at rula.com/drmeg. Acorns Early – Teach your kids about money: ⁠acornsearly.com/drmeg⁠ WHO SMARTED? – A podcast that makes kids laugh while they learn. Search “WHO SMARTED?” wherever you get your podcasts. KiwiCo – $15 off your Summer Adventure Series at ⁠kiwico.com/DRMEG⁠ Børn Shoes – Crafted for all-day support, top-quality style, and made to move with you. Get 15% off plus free shipping with code DRMEG at ⁠BornShoes.com⁠ – comfort never looked so good. Summer Bridge Workbooks with IXL – Keep your kids learning and loving it this summer at ⁠summerbrains.com/DRMEG⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    41 分
  • Ep. 277: Shame-Free Parenting: Embracing Good Enough with Craig Knippenberg

    Ep. 277: Shame-Free Parenting: Embracing Good Enough with Craig Knippenberg
    2025/05/28
    Do you feel like you're falling short as a parent? Dr. Meg Meeker, pediatrician and parenting expert, sits down with child and family therapist Craig Knippenberg to unpack why “good enough” is more than enough in today’s complex parenting landscape. Craig is the author of Shame-Free Parenting: Building Resiliency in Times of Hardship, Guns, and Social Media, and together, he and Dr. Meg explore how parents can stop chasing perfection and start parenting with compassion, consistency, and courage. You’ll hear: Why perfectionism creates disconnection—and what to do instead How to distinguish healthy guilt from harmful shame The overlooked role of temperament and trauma in parenting struggles Tools for single parents, and why support networks matter more than ever The healing power of small, intentional family rituals 🎉 Join Our New Parenting Community — FREE! Get access to webinars, mini-courses, exclusive content, a private forum to connect with other parents, and so much more. Start parenting with more confidence and real support: 👉 meekerparenting.com Episode Breakdown: 00:00 – Introduction: The landscape of modern parenting 00:34 – Meet Craig Knippenberg: Therapist & author on shame-free parenting 01:24 – What does it mean to parent without shame? 01:41 – How parenting stress has evolved through history 05:12 – Why kindness toward ourselves as parents matters 06:30 – The personal impact of Columbine and working in trauma 13:40 – Temperament: The missing piece in parenting challenges 19:36 – How inconsistency creates confusion and behavioral issues 20:37 – Adjusting expectations and embracing flexibility 21:04 – The quiet power of being consistent 21:51 – Shame vs. accountability: What’s the difference? 22:44 – Understanding how guilt can be helpful—but shame is toxic 25:38 – Why middle school is a tough phase—and how to stay connected 29:02 – Tools and encouragement for single parents 31:33 – Simple, powerful family rituals that create safety 34:33 – Final thoughts and helpful resources About Craig Knippenberg Craig Knippenberg is a licensed child and family therapist specializing in trauma, adolescent development, and parenting dynamics. His book Shame-Free Parenting is a compassionate guide to building emotionally safe homes amid modern challenges. Sponsored by: Hungryroot – 40% off + a free item in every box at hungryroot.com/drmeg (code DRMEG) Acorns – Start investing with spare change: acorns.com/drmeg Acorns Early – Teach your kids about money: acornsearly.com/drmeg WHO SMARTED? – A podcast that makes kids laugh while they learn. Search “WHO SMARTED?” wherever you get your podcasts. KiwiCo – $15 off your Summer Adventure Series at kiwico.com/DRMEG Børn Shoes – Crafted for all-day support, top-quality style, and made to move with you. Get 15% off plus free shipping with code DRMEG at BornShoes.com – comfort never looked so good. Summer Bridge Workbooks with IXL – Keep your kids learning and loving it this summer at summerbrains.com/DRMEG. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    37 分
  • Ep. 276: Breaking Free from Substance Abuse – A Parent’s Journey to Recovery

    Ep. 276: Breaking Free from Substance Abuse – A Parent’s Journey to Recovery
    2025/05/19
    What happens when a parent, once strong and accomplished, finds themselves trapped in addiction? In this compelling episode of the Parenting Great Kids podcast, Dr. Meg Meeker speaks with Nick Padlo, founder of Sophros Recovery in Tampa. A former combat veteran and addiction survivor, Nick shares how his journey through military service and personal struggle led him to create a treatment center focused on holistic healing for individuals facing both substance use and co-occurring mental health challenges. Together, they explore: Why traditional recovery approaches sometimes fall short How mindfulness and comprehensive care can change lives What busy parents need to know about recognizing addiction How recovery is possible—even while navigating the pressures of parenting In this episode, you’ll learn: The emotional toll of addiction on parents and families The neuroscience behind substance use and mental health Why community, structure, and internal healing are key to lasting sobriety Practical steps for seeking help and beginning the recovery journey Nick Padlo is the founder of Sophros Recovery, a Tampa-based treatment center offering holistic care for substance abuse and co-occurring mental health disorders. A former U.S. Army combat veteran and successful executive, Nick’s personal recovery story shaped his mission to help others find sustainable healing. His work emphasizes mindfulness, evidence-based therapies, and a deep understanding of the unique needs of veterans and high-performing individuals seeking recovery. Sophros Recovery → https://sophrosrecoverytampa.com Join our new parenting community for free and explore coaching options with Dr. Meg Meeker → meekerparenting.com Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction: The Hidden Struggles of Parenting 00:40 – Meet Nick Padlo: From military leadership to recovery advocate 01:53 – Nick’s personal journey through trauma, addiction, and recovery 05:40 – Alcohol and emotional suppression: Understanding the trap 08:26 – The neuroscience of addiction and the mind-body connection 10:20 – Self-care as a foundation for recovery 14:07 – Identifying the signs of substance use in parents 15:35 – Overcoming stigma and asking for help 18:05 – Understanding the stages of change in recovery 18:32 – Motivation, mindfulness, and internal transformation 19:58 – Alcohol’s ripple effects on families and children 20:39 – Effective recovery tools: Meditation, therapy, and support 26:00 – The power of community and connection in healing 28:23 – Navigating daily life while maintaining sobriety 33:38 – Nick’s reflections and hope for parents in recovery 36:28 – Final thoughts from Dr. Meg and Nick Padlo Sponsored by: Hungryroot – 40% off + a free item in every box at hungryroot.com/drmeg (code DRMEG) Acorns – Start investing with spare change: acorns.com/drmeg Acorns Early – Teach your kids about money: acornsearly.com/drmeg WHO SMARTED? – A podcast that makes kids laugh while they learn. Search “WHO SMARTED?” wherever you get your podcasts. KiwiCo – $15 off your Summer Adventure Series at kiwico.com/DRMEG Børn Shoes – crafted for all-day support, top-quality style, and made to move with you. Get 15% off plus free shipping with code DRMEG at BornShoes.com – comfort never looked so good. Keep your kids learning and loving it this summer—check out Summer Bridge Workbooks with IXL at summerbrains.com/DRMEG. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    43 分
  • Ep. 275: Understanding and Combating Toxic Productivity in Parenting with Israa Nasir

    Ep. 275: Understanding and Combating Toxic Productivity in Parenting with Israa Nasir
    2025/05/06
    Do you feel like you're constantly running on empty trying to be the “perfect” parent? In this powerful episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with Israa Nasir, licensed psychotherapist and author of Toxic Productivity: Reclaim Your Time and Emotional Energy in a World That Always Demands More, to unpack how the pressure to always “do more” is impacting parents and their children. Israa shares how toxic productivity is driven by perfectionism, fear of inadequacy, and cultural expectations—and how it leads to chronic stress, emotional overwhelm, and strained family dynamics. Together, she and Dr. Meg explore practical ways to break the cycle of overfunctioning and reclaim peace and presence at home. In this episode, you’ll learn: What toxic productivity looks like in real-life parenting How fear and societal expectations fuel burnout The long-term emotional effects on both parents and kids How to set flexible boundaries and prioritize well-being Simple tools like micro-breaks, reprioritization, and self-worth reframing Empowering advice for single moms carrying it all About Israa Nasir Israa Nasir is a NYC-based psychotherapist, speaker, and mental health educator. She helps high-achieving individuals overcome perfectionism, burnout, and emotional dysregulation. Her new book Toxic Productivity is a compassionate guide to reclaiming mental space and joy in a hustle-obsessed culture. Episode Breakdown 00:00 – Introduction to Toxic Productivity00:50 – What is Toxic Productivity?02:05 – How It Impacts Parents and Children04:31 – Parenting Rooted in Fear08:40 – Breaking the Cycle of Overachieving12:07 – Reprioritizing and Setting Boundaries26:26 – Separating Self-Worth from Productivity32:16 – Advice for Single Moms Navigating Overload36:34 – Final Reflections and Empowering Takeaways Resources & Links Toxic Productivity by Israa Nasir → Toxic Productivity — Israa Nasir Learn more about Israa Nasir → Israa Nasir Expert parenting coaching with Dr. Meg Meeker → https://meekerparenting.com Sponsored by: Amazfit Active 2 – 10% off AI coaching at amazfit.com/DRMEG Hungryroot – 40% off + a free item in every box at hungryroot.com/drmeg (code DRMEG) Acorns – Start investing with spare change: acorns.com/drmeg Heat Holders® – 15% off cozy winter wear at heatholders.com (code DRMEG) Acorns Early – Teach your kids about money: acornsearly.com/drmeg WHO SMARTED? – A podcast that makes kids laugh while they learn. Search “WHO SMARTED?” wherever you get your podcasts. KiwiCo – $15 off your Summer Adventure Series at kiwico.com/DRMEG Børn Shoes – crafted for all-day support, top-quality style, and made to move with you. Get 15% off plus free shipping with code DRMEG at BornShoes.com – comfort never looked so good. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    42 分
  • Ep. 274: What Parenting Really Takes: Insight from a Disabled Mom’s Journey

    Ep. 274: What Parenting Really Takes: Insight from a Disabled Mom’s Journey
    2025/04/30
    What does it mean to parent when the world isn't built for you? Jessica Slice, author of Unfit Parent: A Disabled Mother Challenges an Inaccessible World, joins Dr. Meg Meeker to share her powerful story of raising a child with a disability. Jessica discusses the myths around "perfect parenting," the societal barriers disabled parents face, and how true connection matters far more than physical perfection. In this episode, we discuss: Jessica’s journey to disability – and motherhood – and how she reclaimed her narrative. The unique challenges and joys of parenting with a disability. The critical role of community support and adaptive problem-solving. How unrealistic societal standards impact all parents, not just disabled ones. The importance of teaching children about disability with honesty and compassion. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 – Introduction: The unique challenges of parenting 00:21 – Meet Jessica Slice: Advocate, author, and mother 01:34 – Jessica's personal journey into disability and motherhood 03:12 – Parenting with a disability: Challenges and strengths 04:31 – Adopting and raising a newborn as a disabled parent 08:34 – How community and creative problem-solving make parenting possible 16:08 – Facing (and fighting) accessibility barriers in everyday life 24:04 – Why community support matters more than perfection 26:25 – Teaching kids empathy and understanding about disability 28:51 – Final reflections and words of encouragement Our Guest: Jessica Slice is a disabled author, speaker, and essayist whose upcoming memoir Unfit Parent has been shortlisted for the J. Anthony Lukas Prize. She’s the co-author of several books, including Dateable and We Belong (with the late Judy Heumann), and her writing has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Glamour, and more. A sought-after podcast guest, Jessica holds degrees from Davidson College and Columbia University and lives in Toronto with her family. Resources & Links: Learn more about Jessica Slice’s book Unfit Parent → https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jessica-Slice/author/B0D96Q4KB5 Work with Dr. Meg Meeker → https://meekerparenting.com/ Our Sponsors Amazfit Active 2 – 10% off AI coaching at amazfit.com/DRMEG Hungryroot – 40% off + a free item in every box at hungryroot.com/drmeg (code DRMEG) Acorns – Start investing with spare change: acorns.com/drmeg Heat Holders® – 15% off cozy winter wear at heatholders.com (code DRMEG) Acorns Early – Teach your kids about money: acornsearly.com/drmeg WHO SMARTED? – A podcast that makes kids laugh while they learn. Search “WHO SMARTED?” wherever you get your podcasts. KiwiCo – $15 off your Summer Adventure Series at kiwico.com/DRMEG Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    39 分
  • Ep. 273: Navigating College Admissions: Expert Advice for Parents

    Ep. 273: Navigating College Admissions: Expert Advice for Parents
    2025/04/21
    What’s the real key to college admissions success? It might not be what you think. In this empowering episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker is joined by Dr. Pamela Ellis, also known as The Education Doctor. With experience guiding over 30,000 families and helping students earn an average of $75,000 in scholarships, Dr. Ellis shares invaluable insights that every parent needs to hear. In this episode, you'll learn: Why finding the right college fit matters more than just getting into a "top" school. How to debunk common college admissions myths and focus on what truly works. The crucial role parents play—without micromanaging. Tips for empowering your teen to lead their own admissions journey with confidence. How gratitude practices can support emotional health during the stressful admissions process. Whether you're just beginning to think about college or already knee-deep in applications, this episode offers actionable strategies and deep wisdom to help you and your child navigate the college admissions process with purpose and peace of mind. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 – Introduction: Why college admissions is stressful for families 00:21 – Meet Dr. Pamela Ellis: The Education Doctor’s approach to college planning 01:34 – Common myths about admissions and scholarships 04:22 – How to find the “right college fit” for your teen 11:13 – The role of parents: guiding without controlling 17:19 – Helping teens take ownership of the process 22:01 – Gratitude practices and their impact on students 26:06 – When college isn’t the obvious next step 28:21 – Building confidence through applications 34:16 – Supportive parenting strategies that work 38:55 – Final thoughts and next steps for families About Dr. Pamela Ellis Dr. Pamela Ellis, MBA, Ph.D., is the founder of Compass Education Strategies and author of What to Know Before They Go. Known nationally as The Education Doctor, she helps families navigate college admissions with a focus on holistic student success—academically, socially, financially, vocationally, and culturally. Resources & Links: Learn more about Dr. Pamela Ellis and her work → https://compasscollegeadvisory.com/ 👉 Book a coaching session with Dr. Meg Meeker → https://meekerparenting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    44 分
  • Ep. 272: Cracking the Code of Teen Anxiety: What Every Parent Needs to Know

    Ep. 272: Cracking the Code of Teen Anxiety: What Every Parent Needs to Know
    2025/04/14
    What’s driving the surge in teen anxiety—and how can parents help kids take back control of their mental health? In this episode, Dr. Meg Meeker is joined by Dr. Jodi Aman, a seasoned psychotherapist, author, and educator with nearly 30 years of experience helping teens and families break free from the grip of anxiety. Together, they explore the real reasons behind today’s teen mental health crisis—from social media to dopamine addiction—and offer practical, compassionate solutions for parents. You’ll learn: Why smartphones, social isolation, and societal pressures are creating a perfect storm for anxiety How comparison culture fuels low self-worth and perfectionism What dopamine does to the developing brain—and why kids feel overwhelmed Why validating your child’s emotions matters more than “fixing” them How to help teens understand, manage, and even overcome anxiety When to seek professional help, and what to look for in a therapist Need expert help applying these strategies in your home? Book a private coaching session with Dr. Meg Meeker: https://meekerparenting.com/coaching/ Episode Breakdown 00:00 – Welcome and introduction to the teen anxiety crisis 00:27 – Meet Dr. Jodi Aman and her work with teens and parents 01:00 – What’s causing anxiety to skyrocket in Gen Z 04:45 – How social media and dopamine shape the anxious brain 10:59 – Parental roles: validation, support, and what not to do 15:55 – Helping teens understand and manage anxiety 22:09 – The hidden effects of isolation and cultural pressure 28:08 – Tools for families: The Compass Curriculum and more 30:51 – When to seek professional help and signs to watch for 37:53 – Final encouragement and takeaways for parents About Dr. Jodi Aman Dr. Jodi Aman is a licensed therapist, author, and creator of the COMPASS Curriculum, a mental wellness program for teens. With nearly 30 years of experience, she’s worked with families in over 14 countries, focusing on anxiety, trauma, and emotional resilience. A graduate of Columbia University and Simmons University (DSW), Jodi blends neuroscience, Narrative Therapy, and global insight to help Gen Z understand themselves, build confidence, and navigate the pressures of modern life. Resources & Links Explore Dr. Jodi Aman’s work: https://jodiaman.com Learn about the Compass Curriculum: https://jodiaman.com/compass Loved this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share with a friend. Your support helps more parents discover tools to raise resilient, emotionally healthy kids. Our Sponsors DeepCozy – 15% off sinus relief at deepcozy.com (code DRMEG) Amazfit Active 2 – 10% off AI coaching at amazfit.com/DRMEG Hungryroot – 40% off + a free item in every box at hungryroot.com/drmeg (code DRMEG) Acorns – Start investing with spare change: acorns.com/drmeg Heat Holders® – 15% off cozy winter wear at heatholders.com (code DRMEG) Acorns Early – Teach your kids about money: acornsearly.com/drmeg Equip Health – Virtual eating disorder support at equip.health.com/drmeg WHO SMARTED? – A podcast that makes kids laugh while they learn. Search “WHO SMARTED?” wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    43 分
  • Ep.271: How to Raise Independent Thinkers and Young Entrepreneurs

    Ep.271: How to Raise Independent Thinkers and Young Entrepreneurs
    2025/04/08
    What does it take to raise kids who think critically, challenge the status quo, and build real-world skills early in life? In this episode, Dr. Meg Meeker is joined by Connor Boyack, founder of the Libertas Institute and author of the bestselling Tuttle Twins book series. Connor shares how his work is helping families teach children about liberty, economics, and critical thinking—skills often left out of traditional education. Through engaging stories and hands-on learning experiences, he’s equipping the next generation to become thoughtful, self-reliant, and entrepreneurial. You’ll learn: How storytelling can make big concepts like government and economics approachable for kids Why passion-led learning fosters deeper engagement How the Children’s Entrepreneur Market gives kids real-world business experience Ways parents can advocate for educational freedom and take control of their child’s learning journey Practical strategies to raise kids who are confident, curious, and capable 👉 Need help applying these principles in your own home? Book a private coaching session with Dr. Meg Meeker → https://meekerparenting.com/coaching/ Episode Breakdown: 00:00 – Welcome and introduction to today’s topic 01:10 – The inspiration behind The Tuttle Twins series 03:32 – Teaching liberty and economics through storytelling 09:44 – The case for passion-driven learning 16:14 – Encouraging entrepreneurship in kids 16:51 – What is the Children’s Entrepreneur Market? 21:49 – How families can get involved 23:05 – What kids learn by running their own businesses 24:59 – The push for educational freedom and parental rights 26:25 – Helping parents become confident advocates 27:24 – A reality check on the state of education today 30:35 – Alternatives to traditional schooling 37:12 – Tips for busy parents trying to do it all 41:23 – Final thoughts and resources About Connor Boyack Connor is president of the Libertas Institute, a public policy think tank, and author of the Tuttle Twins series, which has sold over 5 million copies. His work empowers families to teach essential principles of freedom, responsibility, and entrepreneurship in ways that are fun and easy to understand. Resources & Links: Browse The Tuttle Twins books → https://tuttletwins.com Learn about the Libertas Institute → https://libertas.org Join the Children’s Entrepreneur Market → https://childrensentrepreneurmarket.com If this episode inspired you, please subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review. It helps other parents discover tools to raise confident, independent kids. Our Sponsors DeepCozy – 15% off sinus relief at deepcozy.com with code DRMEG Amazfit Active 2 – 10% off AI-driven coaching at amazfit.com/DRMEG Hungryroot – 40% off + a free item in every box for life at hungryroot.com/drmeg (code DRMEG) Acorns – Start investing with just your spare change. Download the Acorns app or visit acorns.com/drmeg to get started. Heat Holders® – 15% off cozy winter gear at heatholders.com (code DRMEG) Acorns Early lets parents pay allowances automatically. Ready to help your kids learn the value of money? Head to acornsearly.com/drmeg or download the Acorns Early app to get started. Equip Health – Virtual eating disorder treatment at equip.health.com/drmeg WHO SMARTED? – Got a curious kid? Let the Trusty Narrator make them laugh while they learn! Search WHO SMARTED? on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    47 分