Parenting Great Kids With Dr. Meg Meeker

In this episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker welcomes David Gudgel, Director of Church Health for the Northern California Venture Church Network. David shares his wisdom on harmonizing faith and family life, drawing from his personal journey as both a parent and grandparent. He recounts transformative moments, like the spiritual awakening his parents experienced, which reshaped their family dynamics and instilled values of patience and resilience. David offers parents practical advice on guiding their children’s spiritual paths while honoring individuality, highlighting how a foundation of faith can foster stronger relationships within the family. The conversation also explores challenges of modern parenting, particularly managing screen time and the role of digital devices, which David believes should be viewed as privileges rather than entitlements. Additionally, he addresses the evolving role of grandparents, advising them to support their children’s parenting choices without overstepping bound

In this episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker welcomes Dr. Maureen Michelle Peterson—pediatrician, life coach, and author of Reclaiming Life. Dr. Peterson shares her deeply personal journey of raising a child diagnosed with pediatric neuroblastoma, a rare form of childhood cancer, during her third year of residency. Despite her medical expertise, no amount of training could shield her from the emotional toll of the diagnosis. Years later, her family faced another life-altering challenge when her daughter, now 12, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. These experiences not only shaped Dr. Peterson’s approach to parenting but also inspired her to write and share her story to help others navigate similar journeys. This insightful episode equips parents with practical tools for building trust with healthcare providers, preparing for advocacy meetings, and prioritizing self-care amidst the demands of caregiving. Dr. Peterson offers guidance on staying resilient, reframing thoughts, and managing setbacks w

In today's fast-paced, digital world, understanding Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is more crucial than ever for parents and educators. In this episode, Dr. Meg Meeker speaks with psychologist Dr. Katia Fredriksen, an expert in ADHD research, to explore key aspects of the disorder. They cover everything from identifying early symptoms to navigating the diagnosis and treatment process, offering practical strategies on how to approach ADHD with empathy and care. Key Moments: 00:23 Meet Dr. Katia Fredriksen 00:47 Understanding ADHD Symptoms 02:56 Diagnosing ADHD: A Comprehensive Approach 04:14 Neuropsychological Assessment Explained 06:59 The Importance of Accurate Diagnosis 12:53 Balancing Medication and Other Treatments 15:23 School Accommodations for ADHD 17:35 Parenting Strategies for ADHD 20:25 Addressing Common Concerns 26:21 Concluding Thoughts and Resources About Our Guest: Our guest is Dr. Katia Fredriksen, she holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Princeton University and a d

In this episode of the Parenting Great Kids podcast, renowned parenting expert Dr. Meg Meeker welcomes Kyle Idleman, senior pastor at Southeast Christian Church and best-selling author. Together, they explore the common struggle many parents face: prioritizing productivity over building meaningful connections with their children. Drawing from his book When Your Way Isn't Working, Kyle shares valuable insights from his own experience, emphasizing the importance of connection in both parenting and personal growth. Key Moments:  00:00 Introduction to Parenting Challenges 00:39 Meet Kyle Eidelman: Author and Pastor 01:13 The Journey of Writing the Book 03:27 Production vs. Connection: A Dichotomy 05:17 Personal Struggles and Realizations 06:06 The Role of an Executive Coach 15:27 The Importance of Asking for Help 24:06 The Vine and the Branches: A Biblical Perspective 33:21 Practical Tips for Parents and Executives 35:29 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Need parenting advice? Grab one of Dr. Meg's coaching spots h

In this episode, Dr. Meg Meeker interviews Dr. Marty Makary, author of Blind Spots: When Modern Medicine Gets It Wrong, and What It Means for Our Health. They explore common medical misconceptions and their wide-reaching effects, including the rise in peanut allergies linked to outdated avoidance advice, the benefits of hormone replacement therapy, the overprescription of antibiotics, and the importance of microbiome health. Dr. Makary advocates for evidence-based medicine and critiques the centralization of medical decision-making influenced by politics and financial incentives. He promotes humility and transparency in the medical field to restore public trust and combat misinformation. Key moments: 02:08 Medical Dogma and Misconceptions   06:33 The Peanut Allergy Epidemic   13:31 Antibiotics and the Microbiome   28:08 Medical Paternalism and Public Trust   34:03 Conclusion: Challenging Medical Dogma Need parenting advice? Grab one of Dr. Meg's coaching spots here. Watch today’s episode

Did you know that having a mentor can reduce the likelihood of young people developing drug and alcohol issues by 80 percent? Substance abuse is often a contributing factor in teen suicide, making mentorship a key element in safeguarding teens from both. On Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker is joined by Leslie Weirch, who shares her deeply personal journey after losing her son Austin to suicide. Together, they explore the protective factors against suicide, including mentorship, and how these can help shield teens from substance abuse and mental health struggles. Key moments: 00:36 A Mother's Tragic Story: The Loss of Austin 02:11 Austin's Life and Achievements 05:03 The Night That Changed Everything 07:26 Turning Pain into Purpose: Leslie's Mission 08:53 Mental Health Awareness and Prevention 16:43 Leslie's Speaking Journey and Impact 19:55 Sources of Strength: A Preventative Approach 25:52 Protective Factors for Mental Health 34:11 Conclusion: The Importance of Connection and Support Need parenting adv

In this episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker discusses the importance of character development in children with Dr. Kathy Koch, founder and president of Celebrate Kids, Inc. They explore how character qualities such as gratitude, joy, and self-efficacy can help children fulfill their potential and purpose. They emphasize the need for parents to model and teach these qualities, and the episode addresses common parenting challenges, mistakes, and practical tips for nurturing character.  Key Moments: 03:00 Key Character Qualities to Nurture   04:22 Teaching Gratitude and Joy   05:59 Understanding Self-Efficacy   08:07 Core Needs of Children   10:12 The Role of Parents in Character Development   16:31 Addressing Argumentative Behavior in Children   18:33 Understanding Kids' Logic and Bedtime Struggles   20:39 Top Parenting Mistakes and How to Avoid Them   21:08 The Importance of Parental Authority and Apologies   28:09 Navigating Screen Time and Social Media for Kids   Our Guest:  Dr. Kathy Koch is t

In today's digital age, the ubiquity of electronic devices has become a growing concern for parents. In today's episode, Melanie Hempe, renowned for her insightful discussions on parenting, offers some stark warnings and practical advice on how to navigate this complex terrain. Below is a summary of her key points, offering a deeper look into why and how parents need to take action to protect their children's mental health and social development. 00:00 Identifying Video Game Addiction in Kids 00:20 The Importance of Limiting Internet Access 00:38 The Role of Parents in Teaching Values 01:00 The Dangers of Small Screens and Pornography 01:26 Benefits of Reducing Screen Time 01:50 Encouragement for Parents 02:14 Long-term Effects of Video Game Usage The Tell-Tale Signs of Video Game Addiction Need parenting advice? Grab one of Dr. Meg's coaching spots here. Watch today’s episode

In this episode, Dr. Meg Meeker is joined by financial expert and bestselling author Rachel Cruz. They discuss the challenges parents face in teaching their kids gratitude in a consumer-driven society. Rachel shares insights from her career in finance, her shift to educating parents, and her inspiration behind writing children's books aimed at fostering contentment and gratitude. They explore practical tips for parents to instill financial wellness in their children, emphasizing the significance of family values, generosity, and setting financial boundaries. The conversation highlights the profound impact of modeling gratitude and the joys of simple living. Key Moments: 02:52 The Importance of Contentment and Gratitude 04:32 Navigating Consumerism and Teaching Financial Responsibility 08:39 Balancing Generosity and Financial Limits 21:49 Practical Tips for Teaching Kids Financial Wellness 24:36 The Joy of Giving and Serving   About our guest: Rachel Cruze is a two-time #1 national bestselling author, financ

If you're feeling frustrated and disconnected from your child's education, despite your efforts to engage and support them, then you are not alone! Many parents find that traditional schooling systems often fail to provide the personalized attention and emotional connection their children need to thrive academically and emotionally. Join host Dr. Meg Meeker as she interviews Jennifer Pepito, a homeschooling veteran and mother of seven, who shares her insights on creating an enriching and safe educational environment. Discover the secrets to providing a developmentally appropriate and spiritually nourishing education for your children through homeschooling. In this episode, you’ll learn how to: Uncover the advantages of homeschooling for delivering an education that truly matches the pace and needs of your child. Explore how active parental involvement can contribute to the resolution of behavioral issues among children. Break down the barriers of fear and apprehension. Grasp practical techniques to fortif

In this heartfelt episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker welcomes Rose and Rob Bronstein, founders of Buckets Over Bullying. They share their poignant story of losing their son Nate to cyberbullying and their mission to prevent other families from experiencing similar heartbreak. The Bronsteins discuss Nate's relentless torment through social media, the school's inadequate response, and their journey to advocate for stronger protections for children. They emphasize the need for parent education, school and tech company accountability, and legislative reforms to combat the growing epidemic of online bullying. This episode highlights the crucial need for awareness and collective action to protect our children from digital dangers. Key moments: 02:14 The Incident: A Weekend of Cyberbullying 07:26 School's Response and Legal Battle 10:36 The Aftermath: Seeking Justice 21:46 Wider Implications and National Crisis 23:57 Shocking Cyberbullying Statistics 24:33 The Terrifying Reality of Cyberbullying

In this episode of 'Parenting Great Kids,' Dr. Meg Meeker welcomes back Larry Hagner, the creative force behind the Dad Edge podcast and author of 'The Spirit of Fatherhood.' Larry shares his journey of overcoming a tumultuous childhood with absentee and toxic father figures to becoming a devoted father himself. They discuss the complexities of fatherhood, the misconceptions men have about parenting, and practical tips for building strong connections with children. You’ll get deep and practical advice for men striving to lead extraordinary lives as fathers. Key moments: 02:47 The Birth of Dad Edge 06:01 Challenges and Realizations in Fatherhood 08:08 Understanding Men's Inner Struggles 18:49 Understanding the Father's Perspective 19:59 A Personal Story of Change 21:06 The Power of Compassionate Communication 23:43 Shifting Perspectives for Better Relationships 29:25 Practical Tips for Connecting with Kids 36:47 Final Thoughts and Resources Need parenting advice? Grab one of Dr. Meg's coaching spots here. W

Did you know that 95% of moms experience mom guilt regularly? In this episode, Dr. Meg delves into this pervasive issue with author Alli Worthington. Alli's extensive national survey on the challenges of motherhood has culminated in her latest thought-provoking book, 'Remaining You While Raising Them'. Together, Dr. Meg and Alli offer invaluable perspectives and practical strategies to help mothers break free from the cycle of self-doubt and judgment. Key moments: 00:00 Understanding Mom Guilt: A Staggering Reality 00:08 The Daily Struggle: Trapped in Self-Doubt 00:20 Exploring Causes and Consequences 00:28 Empowering Solutions for Freedom Need parenting advice? Grab one of Dr. Meg's coaching spots here. Watch today’s episode

In this episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker is joined by Dr. Eran Magen, an expert in education and psychology from Stanford University and founder of Parenting for Humans and DivorcingDads.org. They discuss the increased risk of suicide among divorced fathers and the unique challenges these men face. Dr. Magen emphasizes how critical it is to maintain strong relationships with their children, despite the emotional and financial pressures of divorce. The episode concludes with advice on how friends and family can intervene and support at-risk fathers and be proactive about their mental health. Themes we will explore: 00:07 Understanding the Crisis: Divorced Dads and Suicide Risk 01:23 Expert Insights: Dr. Eran Magen on Divorced Dads 02:30 The Emotional Struggles of Divorced Dads 06:18 Building Strong Relationships with Kids 13:08 Navigating Post-Divorce Challenges 25:43 Supporting Divorced Dads: Suicide Prevention 31:02 Early Alert: Proactive Suicide Prevention 38:31 Final Thoughts and Resources

In honor of Father's Day, Dr. Meg Meeker interviews Chris Grainger, founder of The Lion Within Us, about his mission to empower Christian men to become strong leaders in their families and communities. Chris shares insights on spiritual growth, overcoming challenges, and fostering a sense of purpose through faith. They delve into the roles of men in providing, protecting, and presiding, and how controlled strength can positively impact marriages and fatherhood. Through personal stories and practical advice, Chris emphasizes the importance of community and spiritual guidance in helping men realize their potential and effectively lead their families. In this episode, you will learn: How to Reconcile the Concept of the Lion and the Lamb: Understanding the balance between strength and gentleness in Christian leadership. The Role of Men in Family and Faith: Exploring the responsibilities of men in nurturing their family's spiritual and emotional well-being. Challenges and Solutions for Modern Fathers: Iden

On the Parenting Great Kids podcast, three fathers share insights on the challenges of fatherhood. Influencer Andy Dooley, Super Bowl champion Benjamin Watson, and successful executive Michael Dickson offer personal stories and tips on everything from communication to disciplining your kids. In this episode, you will learn: Strategies for creating a safe and harmonious atmosphere at home by mastering empathy. Techniques for promoting healthy relationships with your children through intentional focus on their emotional needs. Tips for cultivating a family dynamic of collaboration by teaming up with your spouse. Our Guests: Andy Dooley is a fitness coach, Tik Tok star host, TV host and author of the book Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose. Benjamin Watson is a former NFL tight end, writer, speaker, and activist. He is a college football studio analyst with the SEC Network and serves as Vice President of Strategic Relationships with the Human Coalition, one of the largest pro-life and pro-women’s organizati

In this episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker chats with Dr. Melanie McNally, an expert in clinical psychology and teen mental health, about the importance of emotional intelligence in teenagers. Dr. McNally draws from her personal experiences, emphasizing the impact of her challenging relationship with her mother during her own teenage years.  They unpack the challenges that teenagers face in navigating their emotional landscape, particularly in today's digital age and post-pandemic era. Get valuable insights for understanding and supporting teens' emotional well-being and healthy relationships during this crucial stage of development. Today’s Guest Melanie McNally, Psy.D., clinical psychologist, brain coach, speaker, and author of two books, The Emotionally Intelligent Teen: Skills to Help You Deal with What You Feel, Build Stronger Relationships, and Boost Self-Confidence and Helping Your Unmotivated Teen: A Parent’s Guide to Unlock Your Child’s Potential. Dr. Melanie has emerged as a leading

No matter what stage of parenting you’re in, just when you think you have it figured out, your kids change. In this special edition of the Parenting Great Kids podcast, Dr. Meg Meeker delves into the heart of your parenting dilemmas. From nurturing strong sibling bonds to guiding struggling young adults, she shares her battle-tested expert insights and actionable advice to help you raise strong kids. Topics Covered: Supporting Struggling Young Adults: Guide your adult child's journey to independence while avoiding the pitfalls of enabling dependency. Social Media Safety: Help your kids develop healthy habits with technology and avoid the dangers of social media addiction. ADHD vs. Childhood Energy: Understand the distinctions between typical childhood energy levels and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and how to address each effectively. Co-Parenting Dynamics: Encourage stronger engagement from an uninvolved co-parent, promoting a more balanced parenting partnership. Sibling Bonds: C

In this episode of the Parenting Great Kids podcast, join Dr. Meg Meeker as she engages in a heartfelt conversation with Rachel Marie Martin, an unwavering advocate for motherhood and author of the uplifting book "Mom Enough." Together, they explore Rachel's journey through the challenges of motherhood, overcoming mom guilt, navigating the pressure to measure up, and the vital role of self-compassion and grace in motherhood. Rachel shares insights on embracing fearlessness, prioritizing open communication, and fostering understanding with our children. They discuss the delicate balance between being a nurturing parent and a supportive friend to our kids and practical ways mothers can strengthen their support networks. Tune in for an insightful dialogue that offers encouragement, wisdom, and solidarity to all mothers. Today’s Guest Rachel Marie Martin believes in the power of the human spirit to overcome, to thrive and to find deep joy and because of that she pours out her heart via these platforms: she is th

In this episode of "Parenting Great Kids," Dr. Meg Meeker and Dr. Stephen Whiteside, a distinguished board-certified clinical psychologist and director of pediatric anxiety disorders at Mayo Clinic, explore the crucial topic of managing anxiety in children. Throughout the discussion, Dr. Whiteside stresses the significance of accurate diagnosis and provides practical tips for parents navigating childhood anxiety. They emphasize the idea of managing rather than eliminating your child’s anxiety, because it's a normal part of life. The conversation also delves into exposure therapy, explaining how repetitive practice in confronting anxiety can boost confidence and reduce its impact. Dr. Whiteside emphasizes how parents can take an active role in how their children deal with anxiety in a therapeutic setting and participate in post-practice discussions to reinforce learning and instill confidence. This unique approach ensures that both the child and the parent can handle anxiety-inducing situations at home indepen