Parents of the Year

Join Dr. Caroline Buzanko in an enlightening conversation with Andra McHugh, founder of the Eczema Kids brand and host of the Eczema Kids podcast. In this episode, Andra shares her personal journey navigating her children’s severe eczema and how it inspired her to create resources that help other families. Discover practical advice on dietary changes, skincare routines, and environmental adjustments that can dramatically improve the quality of life for children suffering from eczema. Andra emphasizes the importance of holistic approaches, including food combining and the avoidance of certain irritants, offering hope and actionable solutions to parents facing similar struggles. About Andra McHugh A matcha-sipping, veggie-loving mom of four, Andra transformed her family's struggle with severe eczema into a mission to promote healthier, happier childhoods. As the host of the popular Eczema Kids podcast and the founder of a related brand, Andra offers a blend of scientific insight and heartfelt empathy. Her approach, honed through meticulous research and real-world experimentation, focuses on natural solutions and simple home remedies that empower parents to reclaim their children's health. Her expertise spans diet, nutrition, and practical wellness hacks, making her a unique resource for families facing similar challenges. Eczema Kids Apple Podcast (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/eczema-kids-natural-eczema-solutions-eczema-diet-eczema/id1607911865) Eczema Kids Website: https://eczemakids.com The Clear Skin Kids Course: Learn how to reduce inflammation, reverse your child's eczema symptoms, create a toxin-free environment and identify the root cause of your kid's skin condition so you can stop the itch/scratch cycle and HEAL your child from the inside out. https://eczemakids.com/workwithme Eczema Kids Skin Comfort System: A trio of products designed to soothe itch and staph, build the skin microbiome and skin barrier, improve lymphatic flow as well as deeply moisturize eczema skin. All products are free of tree nuts, preservatives and infused with time-honored herbs and bioavailable nutrients. https://eczemakids.com/soothing-skincare Join the facebook group: Eczema Solutions for Kids, Natural Healing and Comfort https://www.facebook.com/groups/3218060598452484 Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Twitter @POTYPodcast and be sure to join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

Join Andrew and Caroline as they share their recent whirlwind family trip to New Zealand. Ever try navigating a vacation with jet-lagged kids while reflecting on the deeper meanings of life? It's like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube in a hurricane! Listen in as they explore themes of mindfulness, gratitude, and the challenges of modern parenting. They reflect on the balance between striving and appreciating, discussing how these experiences tie into broader concepts of resilience and emotional well-being. Whether navigating the complexities of travel or the daily grind, this podcast offers a heartfelt look at finding joy and gratitude in the chaos. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Twitter @POTYPodcast and be sure to join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

Today on Parents of the Year special guest Cadence Robertson chats about overthinking and perfectionism in parenting. From hilarious family anecdotes to the deep psychological underpinnings of overthinking and the pursuit of perfection, this episode is a must-listen for parents striving to navigate the challenges of raising children. Discover practical strategies for dealing with overthinking, learn how to tackle perfectionism head-on, and understand the importance of embracing imperfection in the parenting journey. Join us as we uncover insights into building stronger, more resilient family dynamics. About Cadence Robertson Cadence is a life and confidence coach with a special focus on overthinking and perfectionism. She has almost a decade of childcare experience and helps parents get unstuck from perfectionism and live a happier life. Get in touch: website: www.findyourcadence.ca IG: @findyourcadencecoaching Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Twitter @POTYPodcast and be sure to join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

Today on Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline discuss the complex world of generational differences, responsibility, and the challenges of adulting. They take a candid look at the expectations and realities of growing up in different eras and the younger generations’ complaints about not being prepared for adulthood. As parents, it’s our job to equip our children with essential life skills, so tune in for important learning moments. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Twitter @POTYPodcast and be sure to join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

In this incredible episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline have a wonderful opportunity to chat with Wendela Marsh who sheds light on the unique experiences of autistic parents. They discuss the world of neurodivergence in parenting, exploring the strengths, challenges, and practical strategies for managing sensory sensitivities, communication, and societal expectations. Whether you're an autistic parent seeking guidance or someone looking to understand the nuances of neurodivergent parenting, this episode provides valuable insights into making parenting a rewarding journey for all. Discover how to leverage the unique perspectives of neurodivergence to foster a nurturing, understanding, and inclusive family environment. About Wendela Wendela Whitcomb Marsh is an award-winning author, sought-after speaker, and CEO of Adult Autism Assessment & Services. Her late husband, David, was autistic, as are two of their three children. Her book, Parenting While Autistic (book 4 of the Adulting While Autistic series) is born of her lived experience co-parenting with an autistic spouse. There are lots of books about how to parent autistic children, but very few resources when the parent is autistic. Get in touch with Wendela https://wendelawhitcombmarsh.com/ author@wendelawhitcombmarsh.com Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Twitter @POTYPodcast and be sure to join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

Today on Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline discuss the intricate balance between fostering confidence and avoiding overconfidence in children. After a recent event that left them wondering if they raised overly confident girls, they discuss the journey of raising resilient children in a world that often challenges self-esteem and assertiveness. Discover practical strategies for encouraging problem-solving and responsibility, while maintaining a supportive and understanding environment for children to thrive. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Twitter @POTYPodcast and be sure to join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

Today on Parents of the Year, we jump into a profound exploration of how the earliest connections between a mother and her child shape the essence of our being (and teenage brain development!. This is an interesting episode in which we discuss the transformative power of birth and early life experiences, featuring Sharon King, acclaimed author and pioneer in healing birth trauma. We discuss the bond that forms in the womb, its impact on our lifelong perception and relationships, and the importance of nurturing this bond to forge a secure, resilient identity. We offer a comprehensive look at the crucial early steps of human development. This episode is not just a conversation but a journey to understanding how healing maternal and infant traumas can lead to profound transformations within families, paving the way for healthier, happier generations. Check out these Resources! Books by Sharon: Heal Your Birth, Heal Your Life (https://www.healyourbirthbook.com/) Return to The Mother World (https://amzn.to/3vrO6aR) Hold Onto Your Kids by Gordon Neufeld & Gabor Mate (https://amzn.to/3VprSB0) It Didn't Start With You by Mark Wolynn (https://amzn.to/43k6m2F) Free Meditation: Connecting To Your Baby https://www.magicalnewbeginnings.com/baby-self-meditation/ About Sharon Sharon King is an international trainer of energy psychology techniques for transforming trauma and living a more joyful, connected, and empowered life. One of her specialties is working with pre and perinatal birth trauma for both mother and baby. As a best-selling author, Sharon shares her extensive knowledge in her books Heal Your Birth, Heal Your Life and co-author of Return to The Mother World: Ancient Feminine Wisdom in Times of Transition. Sharon’s training is extensive, with qualifications and experience in holistic healing modalities and creating her own. Sharon is living on the beautiful island of Koh Phangan in Thailand and is hosting retreats and producing online programs for parents-to-be to achieve a conscious conception, pregnancy and birth, plus hosting new training programs for students. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Twitter @POTYPodcast and be sure to join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

Today on Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline sit down with Marla, the creator of "Love Your Body, Love Yourself," to explore the deep and complex relationship between body image, food, and self-esteem. In this episode, we delve into how societal pressures, family dynamics, and the digital age impact our self-perception and what we can do to foster a healthier, more positive body image in ourselves and our children. Whether you're struggling with your own body image or seeking ways to support your children, this conversation offers valuable insights and practical tips for all of us to embrace ourselves fully and living life to the fullest. About Marla: Marla Mervis-Hartmann, the Creator of Love Your Body Love Yourself, is a dynamic speaker, author, and coach known for her powerful message of self-compassion and body positivity. After overcoming her own struggles with food and body confidence, Marla has dedicated her life to helping women appreciate their bodies, make nourishing lifestyle choices, and find freedom with food and body through spiritual practices. With expertise in Reiki, Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy, Tantra, and women's wellness, Marla empowers women to break free from dieting and embrace self-love. She has been featured at TEDx Salinas, is the author of "Be-Friend Yourself" and resides in Maui with her family. Marla has a book "Be-Friend Yourself" coming out beginning of 2024. Be sure to check out: Tedx Talk: The Secret Ingredient to Feeling Good in your Body: https://youtu.be/nEVjlT9B6dU?si=Y2VtAwhRWwDtEiwK Free Course: Breaking the Cycle of Emotional Eating: https://goloveyourbodyloveyourself.com/emotionaleating Free Body Love Meditation: https://www.loveyourbodyloveyourself.com/body-love Get in Touch! Website: https://loveyourbodyloveyourself.com/ Email: marla@loveyourbodyloveyourself.com IG: @loveyourbodyloveyourselfalways YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/marlamervis FB: https://www.facebook.com/loveyourbodyloveyourself/ Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Twitter @POTYPodcast and be sure to join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

Today on Parents of the Year, despite Caroline having forgotten their anniversary, she and Andrew discuss the intricacies of maintaining a strong and loving relationship amidst the whirlwind of parenting and busy schedules. From the significance of trust and communication to the art of finding joy in the small moments, they share personal anecdotes and insights on building a resilient partnership. Whether it's through forgotten anniversaries turned into cherished memories, the balancing act of shared responsibilities, or the unexpected humour that life throws their way, this episode is a candid exploration of love, partnership, and the daily choices that strengthen bonds. Tune in for an honest reflection on making it work, the importance of support, and the magic found in life's simplest pleasures. And, if you're looking for more concrete ideas on how to keep the marriage alive despite busy schedules, check out Caroline's blog post on this topic: https://korupsychology.ca/keep-marriage-alive/ Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Twitter @POTYPodcast and be sure to join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

Today on Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline jump into the world of teenage acne with expert Dr. Yug Varma. Discover what NOT to do when your child is struggling with acne, and gain valuable insights into effective strategies that can make a real difference. Join us as we explore the do's and don'ts of helping your teenager cope with acne. You'll leave this episode equipped with actionable advice to empower your child on their journey to clear, confident skin. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Twitter @POTYPodcast and be sure to join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

Today on Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline have an enlightening conversation with Jeremy Roadruck, known for his innovative approach to resolving conflict and fostering deep connections within families. In this episode, Jeremy shares his insights on the pivotal role of understanding and navigating the triggers our children might push, and how our reactions often mirror unresolved issues from our own childhoods. Discover practical strategies for creating a nurturing environment where both parents and children can co-create a new way of living and being a family. Learn to recognize and manage your emotional responses, turning everyday challenges into opportunities for growth and connection. Whether you're dealing with the stresses of daily parenting or seeking ways to heal and integrate past traumas, this episode offers valuable tools for building a resilient and loving family dynamic. About Jeremy Jeremy Roadruck - creator of The Roadmap to Relationship Mastery for Men and co-founder of The Family Man Tribe - is a Husband, Father, International Champion and 6th Degree Kung Fu Master, Multi-Time Best-Selling Author, Hypnotherapist, Neuro-Strategist and Consultant. *whew* Author of the only parenting book with a money-back guarantee, Jeremy is on a mission to help dads to create strong marriages, raise amazing kids, and have lives they love. He's been through bankruptcy, living in a tent in the woods, car repossession, kicked out of where he was living after his second lung collapse, closed his dream business, and more and through it all... he's developed specific strategies and tools to help keep his mindset playful and strong. Today he's happily married and helping men love their lives (and their wives)! Where to find Jeremy & resources Socials: https://www.facebook.com/jeremyr.thekungfuguy https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyroadruck https://www.youtube.com/@jeremyroadruck https://medium.com/@KungFuGuyJeremy https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejeremyroadruck/ https://www.leadlikeaking.com/lm/your-best-child-ever-signed-copy/ https://www.leadlikeaking.com/hack-pack Email: jeremy.roadruck@gmail.com Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Twitter @POTYPodcast and be sure to join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

Today on Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline explore the significance of showing love and belonging to our children. Unravel the mystery of the five love languages for children, adapted from the well-known concept for couples, and discover how these can be applied to strengthen your bond with your children. From the power of physical touch and words of affirmation to acts of service, gifts, and quality time, this episode offers practical tips to help parents communicate love in the language their child understands best. Whether you're dealing with a teenager's mood swings or planning the perfect date with your child, gain insights to show love in the most impactful way. Tune in and transform your family relationships with the art of love languages and check out Caroline's article with additional practical ideas to practice your child's love language! https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/childs-love-language/ Interested in learning your child's love language, check out https://5lovelanguages.com/start/family/! Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Twitter @POTYPodcast and be sure to join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline discuss bullying once again. They start by talking about bullying’s profound impact on children's well-being – not only emotional and psychological but also physical health – to highlight how important this topic is. They then define what constitutes bullying, emphasizing the importance of differentiating it from other conflicts that may arise. Understanding the power imbalance and repetition of intentional harm is key to identifying bullying behaviour. The discussion unfolds with the changing dynamics of bullying in today's society and whether we are doing enough to address it. Andrew brings up the Norwegian Olweus Program, an effective anti-bullying initiative, and its positive outcomes in reducing bullying incidents within schools. Throughout the episode, Andrew and Caroline stress the crucial role of parents as primary protective factors for children's emotional well-being when they create the right environment for their children. By addressing bullying and promoting a nurturing atmosphere at home, parents can contribute significantly to their children's overall happiness and resilience. Join us for this insightful conversation that offers practical advice for anyone interested in fostering a more compassionate and emotionally healthy environment for children. Together, we can take meaningful steps towards creating a brighter future for our young ones. Read the full BBC article Andrew referred to here: https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20220307-the-best-way-to-stop-bullying?fr=operanews And research article: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2010-06797-027 Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Twitter @POTYPodcast and be sure to join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

Every parent knows the challenge of getting their kids to properly brush their teeth, but do they know why it's important? What about the type of products you should, or shouldn't, be using? Good dental hygiene is important to the overall lifelong health of kids, so we invited an expert to join us this week to discuss everything about dental health, from how to brush to how to deal with anxiety around visiting the dentist. Heather the Hygienist stops by to share her knowledge from years of professional experience. Be sure to access Heather's discount code of 35% off all the best all-natural oral care products on the market on her website with code: CAROLINE35 Check out these books: Dorothy and the Tale of the Lost Tooth and Dentistry for Dummies (a handbook to help navigate the world of dentistry) About Heather the Hygienist Heather the Hygienist is a certified biological and registered dental hygienist for over 25 years, an author of 3 books, a public speaker, a dental consultant, and owner of Simply Silver Mouthwash. She's passionate about educating people on the importance of oral care and how it relates to systemic health. Where to find Heather Heather@simplysilvermouthwash.com www.simplysilvermouthwash.com https://www.instagram.com/simplysilvermouthwash/ https://www.tiktok.com/@heatherthehygienist1 Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Twitter @POTYPodcast and be sure to join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

Join us in a special celebration as Parents of the Year marks its 100th episode milestone! 🎈 To commemorate this momentous occasion, Andrew and Caroline bring you the "Parenting Wisdom Feud" game that's sure to entertain and enlighten. The game is meant to cover the top 100 most important things every parent should know, though they only get to 50 for today. Nonetheless, there is still a lot to think about. Tune in to hear the lively discussions and heckling that ensues as Andrew and Caroline share their thoughts on what it takes to be an exceptional parent. You'll also gain valuable insights into the world of parenting and perhaps discover some tips and tricks you haven't considered before. Whether you're a seasoned parent or just starting your journey, this episode is a must-listen. Don't miss this special episode that celebrates the incredible community we've built over 100 episodes of "Parents of the Year." Thank you for being a part of our parenting adventure! Check out the full list here : https://korupsychology.ca/100-things-parents-should-know/ Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Twitter @POTYPodcast and be sure to join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

In today's episode of POTY (Parents of the Year), we dive into a thought-provoking topic that challenges traditional wisdom. Join Caroline and Andrew as they discuss why teaching kids to talk to strangers can be a crucial skill in their development. As parents and caregivers, our primary concern is often the safety and well-being of our children. The conventional wisdom has always been to instill a sense of caution and fear when it comes to strangers. However, this approach might not always be in the best interest of our kids. Teaching our kids to avoid strangers can be problematic in so many ways. And, there are actually benefits of teaching kids how to interact with unfamiliar faces. Here are just a few: Join us as we explore the nuances of this controversial topic and provide practical tips for parents and caregivers to strike a balance between safety and using potentially important opportunities that will promote essential life skills. By the end of this episode, you'll have a fresh perspective on the idea of teaching kids to talk to strangers and a better understanding of how this approach can empower our children in today's complex world. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Twitter @POTYPodcast and be sure to join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

Step into an example of exceptional parenting on today's episode of Parents of the Year! Or rather, learn from Andrew's epic failure this week. He recently faced a common parenting challenge – giving simple corrective feedback to one of his daughters in a way that she would listen (and, ideally, learn from). Spoiler alert: It didn't go as smoothly as he hoped. As Andrew grappled with his daughter's stormy exit, he questioned if there's a better way to navigate these moments or if kids simply need to tough it out. Effective corrective feedback is really a secret superpower in a parent's toolkit! It's the key to your child's learning and skill development. With the right feedback, children gain valuable insights into their actions, fueling continuous growth, resilience, and self-regulation. Making them tough it out is not the way to go. Tune in to this episode as we explore the art of providing corrective feedback to children effectively. Discover how to communicate in a way that fosters understanding and connection rather than frustration and resistance. For an even deeper dive into this crucial topic, don't miss Caroline's illuminating article on effective corrective feedback: https://korupsychology.ca/effective-corrective-feedback/ Become the best parent you can be by mastering the art of corrective feedback. Tune in now! Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Twitter @POTYPodcast and be sure to join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

As January unfolds, the tradition of setting New Year's resolutions becomes a topic of discussion in many households. In this (last!) replay of a thought-provoking episode, Andrew sparks a conversation about the appropriateness of involving children in the practice of making resolutions. Acknowledging January as an ideal time for embracing new beginnings for individuals of all ages, this episode emphasizes the importance of setting achievable goals, particularly for children. This approach fosters a sense of accomplishment and readiness for success. While Caroline and Andrew express a general reservation towards resolutions themselves, they highlight the significant benefits of teaching children goal-setting skills. Such skills, including initiative, persistence, focus, planning, and prioritizing, are invaluable for personal development. In this episode, they also explore the concept of habit change. Recognizing the start of the year as an opportune time, they discuss strategies to help children establish and maintain healthy habits, setting the foundation for lifelong success. Tune in to hear Caroline and Andrew's insights on guiding children through resolutions and goal setting. For those seeking practical tools to begin this journey, here is a resource for setting SMART goals with your family: https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/goalsettingfamily/ Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Twitter @POTYPodcast and be sure to join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

In this encore presentation of a previous episode, Andrew and Caroline delve deeper into the art of enjoying the holidays to the fullest, focusing on maintaining happiness and health during the chilly weather. For those who might have missed it, we encourage you to explore our comprehensive guide, an invaluable resource for maximizing your holiday experience - there is still time! https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/holidayguide/ Additionally, Caroline shares a Random Acts of Kindness Bingo card for spreading joy and kindness during the holidays: https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/kindnessbingo/ Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Twitter @POTYPodcast and be sure to join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

In this special replay of a past holiday favourite, join Caroline and Andrew as they revisit the essential topic of navigating the holiday season. This episode remains as relevant and insightful as ever, offering practical advice on setting realistic family expectations, managing the complexities of gift-giving, and the significance of establishing meaningful traditions. Drawing from their personal experiences, Caroline and Andrew share their journey in overcoming challenges associated with holiday expectations, especially in prioritizing the well-being of their children during this festive time. They also delve into the creation and importance of family traditions, providing listeners with unique ideas on making the holidays truly memorable. Additionally, don't miss Caroline's updated, comprehensive holiday resource guide, packed with key tips and strategies to enhance your holiday experience: https://bit.ly/unwrapholidaymagic2023 Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Twitter @POTYPodcast and be sure to join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526