Parenting Great Kids with Dr. Meg Meeker

What if the key to a healthier family dynamic has already been read by 20 million people—but you haven't applied it at home yet? In this episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker speaks with Dr. Gary Chapman, author of the international mega-bestseller The 5 Love Languages, about how his globally recognized framework can transform parenting. Dr. Chapman introduces his newest book, The Love Language That Matters Most, offering a sharper, family-focused lens on expressing love in ways that resonate deeply with children and teens. From navigating teenage disconnection to fostering emotional safety, this episode uncovers practical strategies rooted in empathy, intentionality, and personalized communication. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Does my child really feel loved by me?” — this conversation is your wake-up call. Our Guest Dr. Gary Chapman is a renowned counselor, pastor, and the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The 5 Love Languages, which has sold over 20 million copies worldwide and been translated into more than 50 languages. With decades of experience in marriage and family counseling, Dr. Chapman has helped millions better understand how to give and receive love in meaningful ways. His work continues to shape how families, couples, and parents build stronger emotional bonds. Check Out Our Amazon Storefront Want to explore more resources from Dr. Gary Chapman and Dr. Meg Meeker? 📦 Visit our curated Amazon storefront for books and tools featured in this episode: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. 🤝 Sponsors Rula.com/drmegBornShoes.com cozyla.comdrmeg 📩 Subscribe to the Parenting Great Kids Newsletter: https://bit.ly/46G4Niw See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this Christmas episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker invites parents to slow down and reflect on the deeper meaning of Emmanuel—God with us—during seasons when parenting feels uncertain, overwhelming, or out of control. Through reflections on Christmas traditions, gingerbread houses, and the sacred rhythms that shape family life, Dr. Meeker explores how simple rituals create belonging and emotional safety for children. These traditions are not about perfection—they’re about presence. Dr. Meeker also shares deeply personal experiences, including a medical mission trip to the Dominican Republic, where she came face-to-face with the limits of control and the ache parents feel when they can’t fix what’s in front of them. She parallels these moments with Mary’s story as the mother of Jesus—reminding parents that fear, uncertainty, and surrender have always been part of the parenting journey. This episode is a gentle but powerful reminder: uncertainty does not mean abandonment. Even when answers are unclear, Emmanuel is present—offering comfort, hope, and steadiness to parents and children alike. 🎄 A Simple Holiday Note If you’re still looking for a meaningful last-minute gift, the Ask Dr. Meg Community is open. You can try it free, or gift an annual membership with 10% off using code Holiday2025—a gift that supports families well beyond Christmas. 🤝 Sponsors Rula.com/drmegBornShoes.com 🎧 As Heard on PGK Check out other books we've talked about on the podcast. https://amzn.to/46IsRjD Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 📩 Subscribe to the Parenting Great Kids Newsletter: https://bit.ly/46G4Niw See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this insightful episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker welcomes Larissa May and Dr. Raghu Appasani, co-founders of Ginko—an AI-powered parenting tool designed by clinicians to help families manage screen time and support their children's mental health. As screens increasingly dominate our kids' lives, this episode offers a powerful look at how Ginko promotes digital wellness through early intervention, behavioral insight, and personalized parenting support. Ginko is not just another screen-limiting app—it’s a clinically informed platform that helps parents understand their children's emotional state through their digital activity. Larissa and Dr. Appasani share how Ginko personalizes digital guidance, supports healthier habits, and equips families to foster stronger, emotionally connected relationships in the digital age. Whether you're a parent feeling overwhelmed by tech, or a professional navigating the intersection of mental health and technology, this episode provides compassionate and data-driven solutions for raising healthy, tech-savvy kids. Our Guests: Larissa May: Globally recognized as the face of digital wellness, Larz has shaped policy and youth-centered advocacy. Dr. Raghu Appasani: An Integrative & Addiction Psychiatrist and Clinical Professor at UCSF and Mount Sinai. Check out Ginko here. 🎧 As Heard on PGK Check out other books we've talked about on the podcast. https://amzn.to/46IsRjD Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 📩 Subscribe to the Parenting Great Kids Newsletter: https://bit.ly/46G4Niw 🎓 Join the PGK Insider Community – Free Access! Explore our newly launched online courses, parenting forums, and expert Q&A library—all available in our PGK Insider Community. Start for free today and become a more confident, connected parent. Sponsors: Rula.com/drmegBornShoes.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Smartphones and social media have radically transformed childhood. In this episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker and Dr. Jean Twenge explore how constant digital exposure is linked to rising rates of anxiety, depression, and sleep disruption in kids and teens. Dr. Twenge shares powerful tips from her book, 10 Rules for Raising Kids in a High Tech World, including: These rules help reclaim childhood from the grip of technology. While tech is here to stay, balance is possible. Dr. Twenge emphasizes proactive parenting—being aware, staying involved, and not being afraid to set firm boundaries. As Dr. Meeker reminds listeners, protecting kids' mental health is worth every hard conversation about screens, apps, and smartphones. 📚Resources Work with Dr. Meg One-on-One Struggling with parenting challenges and need personalized guidance? Dr. Meg Meeker offers private parent coaching tailored to your family's needs. Learn More About Dr. Jean Twenge’s Research Stay up-to-date with Dr. Twenge’s latest studies on technology and generational psychology and check out her new book here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. 🎓 Join the PGK Insider Community – Free Access! Explore our newly launched online courses, parenting forums, and expert Q&A library—all available in our PGK Insider Community. Start for free today and become a more confident, connected parent. Sponsors: Rula.com/drmegBornShoes.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this follow-up to our conversation on divorce and healing, Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with therapist and integrative healer Dawn Wiggins to talk about what it really takes to recover from any kind of trauma — whether it’s divorce, loss, or years of emotional stress. Wiggins explains how trauma shapes our nervous system, thoughts, and relationships — and how real healing happens when we reconnect body, mind, and spirit. Together, they unpack practical ways to calm the body, release old pain, and create safety from the inside out. 🧭 Key Takeaways EMDRsomatic therapyhomeopathy About Dawn Wiggins Dawn Wiggins is a licensed therapist, homeopath, and integrative healer who helps people recover from trauma and life transitions. She’s the creator of A Different “D” Word, a year-long healing program, and host of the podcast Dear Divorce Diary, where she guides listeners toward emotional safety, balance, and self-trust. 🎧 As Heard on PGK Check out other books we've talked about on the podcast. https://amzn.to/46IsRjD Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 📩 Subscribe to the Parenting Great Kids Newsletter: https://bit.ly/46G4Niw 💡 Feeling Stuck or Overwhelmed as a Parent? Dr. Meg Meeker Can Help You Move Forward with Confidence If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure how to move forward in your parenting journey, Dr. Meg Meeker can help. With decades of experience as a pediatrician and parenting coach, Dr. Meg offers 1-on-1 coaching to help you build confidence, strengthen your family, and parent with purpose. Start your coaching journey today Sponsors: Rula.com/drmegBornShoes.comhttps://platoon.lnk.to/nothing-rhymes-with-orange *This episode is sponsored by Dawn Wiggins. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Children process divorce very differently than adults do. In this episode, we explore how to recognize their pain, help them express big emotions, and avoid critical parenting mistakes post-divorce. Learn the do’s and don’ts of co-parenting, when to introduce a new partner, and why listening is your most powerful tool. Topics Covered: 💡 Feeling Stuck or Overwhelmed as a Parent? Dr. Meg Meeker Can Help You Move Forward with Confidence If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure how to move forward in your parenting journey, Dr. Meg Meeker can help. With decades of experience as a pediatrician and parenting coach, Dr. Meg offers 1-on-1 coaching to help you build confidence, strengthen your family, and parent with purpose. Start your coaching journey today 📩 Subscribe to the Parenting Great Kids Email Listr: https://bit.ly/46G4Niw 🎧 As Heard on PGK Check out other books we've talked about on the podcast. https://amzn.to/46IsRjD Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Sponsors: Rula.com/drmegBornShoes.comhttps://platoon.lnk.to/nothing-rhymes-with-orange See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this powerful episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with bestselling author and pastor Max Lucado to talk about parenting peace, faith-based mindset shifts, and the concept of "picky thinking." Learn how to guard your mind, model faith for your teens, and help your children battle anxiety, negative self-talk, and social media pressures. Max shares his personal stories, parenting wisdom, and biblical insights to help families thrive in truth and peace. What You’ll Learn: Resources: Max Lucado’s book: Tame Your Thoughts 🎧 As Heard on PGK Check out other books we've talked about on the podcast. https://amzn.to/46IsRjD Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 📩 Subscribe to the Parenting Great Kids Newsletter: https://bit.ly/46G4Niw 💡 Feeling Stuck or Overwhelmed as a Parent? Dr. Meg Meeker Can Help You Move Forward with Confidence If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure how to move forward in your parenting journey, Dr. Meg Meeker can help. With decades of experience as a pediatrician and parenting coach, Dr. Meg offers 1-on-1 coaching to help you build confidence, strengthen your family, and parent with purpose. Start your coaching journey today Sponsors: Rula.com/drmegBornShoes.comhttps://platoon.lnk.to/nothing-rhymes-with-orange See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this transformative episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker welcomes psychotherapist and parenting coach Todd Sarner to unpack powerful, research-backed parenting strategies that prioritize connection and attachment over behavior control. Sarner challenges the traditional "behavior-first" models and instead encourages a relational, attachment-first parenting style that fosters emotional regulation, trust, and long-term resilience in children. From exploring the root causes of conflict to rethinking discipline through the lens of unmet needs, this episode provides practical tools, mindset shifts, and actionable advice for parents navigating the complexities of raising emotionally healthy children in today's world. Todd also teases key insights from his upcoming book, The Calm and Connected Parent, making this a must-listen for any caregiver wanting to parent with purpose, empathy, and strength. About Our Guest Todd Sarner, MFT, is a psychotherapist and parenting coach who has spent over 20 years helping parents turn daily struggles into lasting connection and cooperation at home. He is the founder of Transformative Parenting and the author of the forthcoming book The Calm & Connected Parent: An Attachment-First Guide to Raising Resilient Kids in the Age of Screens and AI (November 2025). Blending attachment science with practical psychology, Todd offers clear, compassionate tools that move beyond theory into real-world strategies parents can use in heated moments. He specializes in working with high-achieving, thoughtful parents who often feel like they’re doing everything “right” but still experience conflict, disconnection, or digital-age pressures. Through his coaching, teaching, and writing, Todd empowers families to help their children thrive emotionally while creating more calm and connection at home. 🎧 As Heard on PGK Check out other books we've talked about on the podcast. https://amzn.to/46IsRjD Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 📩 Subscribe to the Parenting Great Kids Newsletter: https://bit.ly/46G4Niw 💡 Feeling Stuck or Overwhelmed as a Parent? Dr. Meg Meeker Can Help You Move Forward with Confidence If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure how to move forward in your parenting journey, Dr. Meg Meeker can help. With decades of experience as a pediatrician and parenting coach, Dr. Meg offers 1-on-1 coaching to help you build confidence, strengthen your family, and parent with purpose. Start your coaching journey today Sponsors: Rula.com/drmegBornShoes.comhttps://platoon.lnk.to/nothing-rhymes-with-orange Disclosure: This episode is sponsored by Todd Sarner and Transformative Parenting. We received compensation for this interview. All opinions expressed are our own. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this powerful and eye-opening episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker speaks with Ray Alex Williams, a man who transitioned to living as a trans woman—and later de-transitioned. His story offers rare, firsthand insight into what happens when someone believes gender transition is the answer, only to discover it isn't. As more parents navigate complex conversations with their children around gender identity, this interview is a must-listen. Ray dives deep into how childhood influences, exposure to pornography, the allure of a new identity, and cultural pressures led him toward transition—and why faith ultimately led him back. This episode empowers parents with tools to guide their kids with truth, love, and clarity, especially in a world where identity questions can feel overwhelming. What You'll Learn in This Episode 🎧 As Heard on PGK Check out other books we've talked about on the podcast. https://amzn.to/46IsRjD Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 📩 Subscribe to the Parenting Great Kids Newsletter: https://bit.ly/46G4Niw 💡 If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure how to move forward in your parenting journey, Dr. Meg Meeker can help. With decades of experience as a pediatrician and parenting coach, Dr. Meg offers 1-on-1 coaching to help you build confidence, strengthen your family, and parent with purpose. Start your coaching journey today Sponsors: https://platoon.lnk.to/nothing-rhymes-with-orangeRula.com/drmeg See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker is joined by Tia Slightman to explore the "why" behind your child's behavior. Together, they provide simple, effective strategies for disciplining with love and respect—without power struggles or emotional explosions. You’ll learn how your own personality influences your discipline style, how to set firm boundaries, and how to stay calm even when your child isn’t. They also dive into the Behavior Needs Roadmap, helping you handle challenging behaviors with confidence. Plus, there's encouragement for single parents and those navigating trauma recovery with children. Whether you're parenting a strong-willed child or just tired of yelling, this episode offers hope—and real tools you can use today. Tia Slightman is a parenting strategist and creator of the Behavior Needs Roadmap. She helps parents decode their child’s behavior and discipline with empathy and consistency. Learn more at www.tiaslightman.com. As Heard on PGK Check out other books we've talked about on the podcast. https://amzn.to/46IsRjD Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Subscribe to the Parenting Great Kids Newsletter: https://bit.ly/46G4Niw 💡 If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure how to move forward in your parenting journey, Dr. Meg Meeker can help. With decades of experience as a pediatrician and parenting coach, Dr. Meg offers 1-on-1 coaching to help you build confidence, strengthen your family, and parent with purpose. Start your coaching journey today Sponsors: https://platoon.lnk.to/nothing-rhymes-with-orange See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From finding joy in small, everyday moments to leveraging technology as a tool for inspiration, this episode offers practical advice for overwhelmed parents and emphasizes how awe can be a protective emotional anchor in today’s chaotic world. Whether it's watching clouds, taking in art, or sharing a heartfelt show like Carl the Collector, you’ll walk away with actionable tips and renewed inspiration to reconnect with your child through the lens of wonder. About Our Guest: Deborah Farmer Chris Deborah Farmer Chris is a parenting journalist, education columnist, and child development expert with a deep passion for helping families rediscover joy and connection. She is a columnist for PBS KIDS for Parents and the founder of Parenthood365, where she offers practical resources to help parents navigate the beautiful (and messy) moments of everyday life. Deborah is also an educational consultant and frequent speaker on how to cultivate awe, resilience, and curiosity in children. Resources: Raising Awe-Seekers: How the Science of Wonder Helps Our Kids Thrive (Free Spirit Parenting) Paperback – May 27, 2025 https://amzn.to/4ozm1EH As Heard on PGK Check out other books we've talked about on the podcast. https://amzn.to/46IsRjD Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Subscribe to the Parenting Great Kids Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/46G4Niw If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure how to move forward in your parenting journey, Dr. Meg Meeker can help. With decades of experience as a pediatrician and parenting coach, Dr. Meg offers 1-on-1 coaching to help you build confidence, strengthen your family, and parent with purpose. Start your coaching journey today: Click to learn more about coaching with Dr. Meg: https://bit.ly/3J6816d Sponsors: https://platoon.lnk.to/nothing-rhymes-with-orange See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In Part 2 of this live series, Meg returns with practical solutions for one of the biggest challenges facing today’s families: protecting kids from online porn and predators. If Part 1 opened your eyes to the harsh reality, Part 2 arms you with real tools, proven strategies, and powerful conversations that can help you take back control. Join Meg as she unpacks: parental control softwareBARKScreen StrongGab Watch This episode is filled with hope, empowerment, and practical tactics you can start using today. Don't miss this vital continuation of the conversation every parent needs to hear. 👉 Want all the resources mentioned in today’s episode? Sign up here to get the full guide. 💬 Need help applying this to your family? Book a coaching session with Meg today. Sponsors: Hungryroot Fam GabsK12-powered SchoolsThrive Causemetics AideeRula.com/drmeg Tags: Pornography, Screens, Social Media, Online Safety, Parenting Styles, Sexual Abuse, Mental Health, Self Esteem, Child Development, Time Management See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this powerful episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with journalist and author Leland Vittert, who shares his compelling journey growing up on the autism spectrum. From enduring bullying to discovering his voice through writing, Leland opens up about the key role his father played in his development and how perseverance and unconditional support changed the trajectory of his life. Leland’s memoir, Born Lucky, chronicles his experience navigating the world with neurodiversity, the impact of an autism diagnosis, and the emotional highs and lows of childhood. This episode is a message of hope for parents raising neurodiverse children, reminding us that persistence, trust, and love truly matter. Key Themes: 📘 Learn more about Leland Vittert’s book Born Lucky: https://amzn.to/42Ae4X8 Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. 📢 Join the Ask Dr. Meg Parenting Portal for exclusive content, expert-led courses, and tools to help you parent with confidence. Sign up here for the free webinar: Protecting Your Kids from Pornography, Part 2: What You Can Do. Sponsors: Hungryroot Fam GabsK12-powered SchoolsThrive Causemetics AideeRula.com/drmeg See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In You Can’t Teach Calm If You Can’t Be Calm, Dr. Meg Meeker welcomes guests Kahlila Robinson and Sarah Gerstenzang, co-authors of The Self-Regulation Workbook for Children Ages 5 to 8. Together, they unpack how parental self-regulation plays a crucial role in helping children build emotional resilience and develop lifelong emotional skills. This episode dives into why your own calm sets the tone for your child’s behavior, especially when dealing with post-COVID stress, emotional outbursts, or peer conflicts. Kahlila and Sarah share practical, science-backed tools to help parents recognize emotional contagion, model regulation, and foster secure attachments. Whether you're managing meltdowns or building daily routines with intention, this conversation reminds us: you can’t teach calm if you can’t be calm yourself. 👉Want personalized guidance from Dr. Meg? If you're struggling to stay calm in the chaos of parenting—or just want expert advice tailored to your family's needs—Dr. Meg offers one-on-one coaching for parents who are ready to grow, heal, and lead with confidence. Learn more here. 🧷Links The Self-Regulation Workbook for Children Ages 5 to 8 by Kahlila Robinson and Sarah Gerstenzang https://amzn.to/4gLC8fq Meg's Amazon Favs https://amzn.to/42QT3re As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 📌 Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction to Parenting Challenges 00:33 – Launch of the Self-Regulation Workbook 01:26 – Why Parental Self-Regulation is Key 02:40 – Staying Calm in Heated Moments 05:29 – How Emotions Transfer Between Parent & Child 08:31 – Addressing Post-COVID Anxiety in Kids 11:08 – Helping Kids Develop Emotional Awareness 12:34 – Simple De-Escalation Tools for Parents 17:44 – Matching Strategies to Different Child Personalities 18:37 – Connection-Based Discipline 21:28 – Children’s Core Emotional Needs 23:31 – Teaching Kids to Cope with Stress 25:15 – Managing Peer Conflict and Social Stress 28:30 – Healing Emotional Wounds in Childhood 30:50 – Balancing Work, Stress & Parenting 36:14 – Final Thoughts & Resources Sponsors: Hungryroot Fam GabsK12-powered SchoolsThrive Causemetics Aidee See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this compelling episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with Dr. Gertrude Lyons, TEDx speaker, parenting coach, and author of the upcoming book Rewrite the Mother Code: From Sacrifice to Stardust. Together, they explore how outdated beliefs around motherhood continue to shape women's emotional lives—and how to break free from them. They discuss how emotional suppression, lack of boundaries, and perfectionism are robbing mothers of joy. Dr. Lyons challenges moms to prioritize their emotional wellness, set healthy boundaries, and reclaim their identity so they can raise emotionally resilient kids. What You’ll Learn: Guest: Dr. Gertrude Lyons – TEDx speaker, author, transformational coach Visit: drgertrudelyons.com Never Miss an Event – Subscribe to our mailing list for live event invites, new episode alerts, and weekly parenting wisdom. 👉 Join Our Mailing List Sponsors: Hungryroot Fam GabsK12-powered SchoolsThrive Causemetics Aidee Ask Dr. Meg Community – Get direct access to live Q&As, exclusive content, and a tribe of intentional parents. 👉 Home - Meeker Parenting See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Is pornography hijacking your child’s brain? In this essential episode of Parenting Great Kids with Dr. Meg Meeker, Dr. Meg sits down with Parker Hymas, Director of Public Outreach at Fight The New Drug, to expose the growing threat pornography poses to kids and teens in today’s digital-first world. 📊 First exposure happens as early as age 9. 🧠 Discover how pornography rewires young brains and distorts healthy relationships. 💬 Learn how to start honest, shame-free conversations with your children before the internet does. From the neuroscience behind porn addiction to tools for empowering your family, Parker Hymas shares evidence-based insights and real-life solutions every parent needs. In this episode, we cover: Our Guest: Parker Hymas is the Director of Public Outreach at Fight the New Drug, a non-religious, non-legislative nonprofit raising awareness about the harmful effects of pornography. Through science, personal stories, and engaging presentations, Parker equips parents, educators, and communities with tools to understand how porn impacts the brain, relationships, and society. 📬 Never Miss an Event – Subscribe to our mailing list for live event invites, new episode alerts, and weekly parenting wisdom. 👉 Join Our Mailing List Sponsors: Hungryroot Fam GabsK12-powered SchoolsThrive Causemetics See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What happens when the kids no longer need you 24/7? In this heartfelt episode of Parenting Great Kids with Dr. Meg Meeker, we dive deep into the emotional and identity-shifting journey that many mothers face when transitioning from full-time parenting into the next chapter of their lives. Dr. Meg sits down with Karen Johnson, a former educator, stay-at-home mom, and author of What Do I Want to Be When They Grow Up?. Together, they unpack what it means to grieve the end of hands-on motherhood while rediscovering purpose, passions, and personal identity. Whether your children are in high school, heading off to college, or already out of the house, this episode offers compassionate, real-world advice for embracing life beyond daily parenting. In this episode, we discuss: Join Us: 🌐 Ask Dr. Meg Community – Get direct access to live Q&As, exclusive content, and a tribe of intentional parents. 👉 Home - Meeker Parenting About Karen Johnson Karen Johnson is a former teacher turned stay-at-home mom and now the author of What Do I Want to Be When They Grow Up?. Her work encourages mothers to reflect, reset, and reignite their sense of self as they move into a new phase of motherhood 📬 Never Miss an Event – Subscribe to our mailing list for live event invites, new episode alerts, and weekly parenting wisdom. 👉 Join Our Mailing List Sponsors: Hungryroot Fam GabsK12-powered SchoolsThrive Causemetics See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this special Ask Dr. Meg live Q&A session, Dr. Meg Meeker dives into the 7 most common parenting mistakes—but this time, with a powerful twist: she shares how each of these actions actually makes your child feel. From yelling and criticism to withdrawing affection or missing connection, Dr. Meg walks listeners through not only what to avoid—but how to repair and rebuild trust, connection, and emotional security. You’ll hear real questions from real parents, answered in real time. Whether you’ve been struggling with guilt, disconnection, or uncertainty in your parenting, this episode will give you the clarity, compassion, and confidence to parent better—starting today. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: nothing Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome to Ask Dr. Meg Live 01:20 – The 7 Most Common Parenting Mistakes 03:15 – Mistake #1: Yelling (and What It Does to Kids Inside) 06:52 – Mistake #2: Constant Criticism and Its Emotional Impact 10:45 – Mistake #3: Not Apologizing—Why It Breeds Resentment 14:11 – Mistake #4: Using Affection as a Punishment 17:05 – Mistake #5: Distraction and the “Invisible Child” Syndrome 19:38 – Mistake #6: Projecting Your Expectations 22:50 – Mistake #7: Failing to Prioritize Time with Your Kids 25:34 – Live Questions From the Audience 29:41 – Final Thoughts: Grace, Growth, and Being a Work in Progress 31:08 – Join the Ask Dr. Meg Community & Newsletter Join Us: 🌐 Ask Dr. Meg Community – Get direct access to live Q&As, exclusive content, and a tribe of intentional parents. 👉 Home - Meeker Parenting 📬 Never Miss an Event – Subscribe to our mailing list for live event invites, new episode alerts, and weekly parenting wisdom. 👉 Join Our Mailing List Sponsors: Hungryroot Fam GabsK12-powered SchoolsThrive Causemetics See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Are your parenting methods helping or hindering your child’s development? In this episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker, pediatrician and bestselling author, breaks down the four key parenting styles—authoritative, authoritarian, permissive, and neglectful—and how each one affects your child’s emotional and behavioral growth. You’ll learn how to identify your default parenting style, what might be influencing it (including your own upbringing), and how to shift toward a more effective and loving approach. Dr. Meeker also tackles common parenting challenges like setting boundaries, dealing with whining, and balancing warmth with discipline. Whether you’re a first-time parent or raising teens, this episode offers a practical roadmap for becoming a more intentional, confident parent. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: authoritative parenting 👉 Join the Ask Dr. Meg Parenting Portal Connect with like-minded parents on a mission to raise spiritually strong, emotionally healthy kids. Timestamps for Easy Navigation: 00:00 – Introduction: Why Parenting Style Matters 00:37 – Discovering Your Default Parenting Approach 03:34 – The Four Parenting Styles Defined 04:32 – What Makes Authoritative Parenting So Effective 07:57 – The Downside of Authoritarian Parenting 10:32 – The Dangers of Permissive Parenting 13:01 – Understanding Neglectful Parenting 14:18 – Helicopter Parenting: Where It Fits 14:57 – How Your Upbringing Shapes Your Parenting 18:54 – Time to Reflect: What’s Working, What’s Not 19:52 – Comparing Authoritarian vs. Authoritative 26:02 – What Permissive Parenting Looks Like 26:42 – Teaching Kids Self-Discipline 27:15 – Authoritative vs. Permissive: The Line Between 27:55 – Risks of Uninvolved Parenting 29:38 – Helping Your Child Build Confidence 30:01 – Pitfalls of Authoritarian Homes 30:43 – Blending Styles and Evolving as a Parent 34:12 – What is “Parenting Preload”? 36:24 – Strategies for Whining and Setting Boundaries 45:31 – Why Fathers Are Critical to Child Development 47:22 – Join the Parenting Great Kids Community Sponsors: Hungryroot Fam GabsK12-powered SchoolsThrive Causemetics See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Can faith and perseverance really transform a life from survival to success? In this inspiring episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker welcomes Angela “Stikks” Adams—a single mom turned successful model and founder of the Christian Models Association. Angela opens up about her incredible story of overcoming hardship, staying grounded in her Christian faith, and choosing purpose over popularity. From battling poverty to breaking into the modeling industry without compromising her values, Angela shares the real-life lessons and God-centered strategies that helped her rise above. She also explains how parents can pass on "God-confidence" instead of self-confidence to help their children walk in truth and strength. If you're a single mom, a parent trying to raise faith-filled kids, or someone searching for hope during hard times, this episode will speak directly to your heart. 👉 Join the Ask Dr. Meg Parenting Portal Connect with like-minded parents on a mission to raise spiritually strong, emotionally healthy kids. In This Episode: About Angela "Stikks" Adams Angela is a professional model, speaker, and founder of the Christian Models Association, an organization dedicated to helping aspiring models walk in their faith while pursuing careers in fashion and entertainment. Her passion is to guide others, especially single mothers, into their God-given potential through authenticity, discipline, and spiritual alignment. Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Struggling to find an apartment as a single mom 01:02 – Parenting in a world that pressures compromise 01:46 – Pursuing God-given dreams despite hardships 02:44 – Single motherhood and trusting God through adversity 10:30 – Moving across the country to rebuild a life 15:55 – Finding work and divine encouragement 17:36 – The importance of real, face-to-face interactions 17:48 – Entering the modeling world with strong values 18:03 – Avoiding spiritual and professional traps 18:50 – Staying true to God’s purpose 21:42 – Teaching children faith-based confidence 22:47 – Launching the Christian Models Association 24:05 – Why "God-confidence" outlasts self-confidence 29:28 – Powerful encouragement for single mothers 34:30 – What it means to model with purpose Sponsors: Hungryroot Fam GabsK12-powered SchoolsThrive Causemetics See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.