Cathy & Todd celebrate their 700th episode by discussing the universal principles of Zen Parenting, the importance of civil conversation, and what has remained the same for the last 12 years. Part 1 of 2.

Todd and Cathy discuss Elizabeth Gilbert’s Valentine’s Day post titled TEN ACTUAL THINGS THAT LOVE HAS SAID TO ME WHEN I WAS ALONE AND AFRAID (FOR ANYONE WHO MIGHT NEED IT TODAY). They discuss each one and how they can rewire the way we experience ourselves and the way we see the world.

Todd and Cathy discuss Elizabeth Gilbert’s Valentine’s Day post titled TEN ACTUAL THINGS THAT LOVE HAS SAID TO ME WHEN I WAS ALONE AND AFRAID (FOR ANYONE WHO MIGHT NEED IT TODAY). They discuss each one and how they can rewire the way we experience ourselves and the way we see the world.

Cathy & Todd talk about the new Taylor Swift Documentary, Shakira's and J-Lo's Superbowl half time show, and other powerful women.  

Cathy & Todd talk about the new Taylor Swift Documentary, Shakira's and J-Lo's Superbowl half time show, and other powerful women.  

Cathy+Todd talk with Heidi Stevens from the Chicago Tribune, and Dr. John Duffy, author of Parenting the New Teen in the Age of Anxiety. They discuss having a moral compass, the current political climate, handling Facebook conversations, and of course, parenting. Make sure you subscribe to Heidi and John’s podcast, On Purpose.

Cathy+Todd talk with Heidi Stevens from the Chicago Tribune, and Dr. John Duffy, author of Parenting the New Teen in the Age of Anxiety. They discuss having a moral compass, the current political climate, handling Facebook conversations, and of course, parenting. Make sure you subscribe to Heidi and John’s podcast, On Purpose.

Cathy and Todd discuss why we are always evolving, and share a clip from The Robcast about why humility is essential. They discuss why it’s never too late to excel at sports or other activities, why procrastination may not be such a bad thing, and why Slow TV on Netflix is so soothing.

Cathy and Todd discuss why we are always evolving, and share a clip from The Robcast about why humility is essential. They discuss why it’s never too late to excel at sports or other activities, why procrastination may not be such a bad thing, and why Slow TV on Netflix is so soothing.

Cathy and Todd continue their discussion about wounds and triggers, and why parts of ourselves need to be acknowledged and validated. They discuss awareness and forgiveness, and why every trigger is an opening and opportunity to heal.

Cathy and Todd continue their discussion about wounds and triggers, and why parts of ourselves need to be acknowledged and validated. They discuss awareness and forgiveness, and why every trigger is an opening and opportunity to heal.

Cathy and Todd discuss childhood wounding and why it leads to triggers in adulthood. They discuss how healthy parts of the self can soothe the wounded parts, and why being triggered is like a replaying an old, painful event or message.

Cathy and Todd discuss childhood wounding and why it leads to triggers in adulthood. They discuss how healthy parts of the self can soothe the wounded parts, and why being triggered is like a replaying an old, painful event or message.

Todd and Cathy discuss “relationship resolutions” for 2020, and why practice and self-compassion are essential when starting a new year.

Todd and Cathy discuss “relationship resolutions” for 2020, and why practice and self-compassion are essential when starting a new year.

Cathy and Todd interview Dr. Siegel's newest book- The Power of Showing Up- How Parental Presence Shapes Who Our Kids Become & How Their Brains Get Wired.

Cathy and Todd interview Dr. Siegel's newest book- The Power of Showing Up- How Parental Presence Shapes Who Our Kids Become & How Their Brains Get Wired.

Cathy and Todd discuss Dr. Thomas Boyce’s book, The Orchid and the Dandelion and how all children can thrive if given the right environment. They also discuss neurodiversity, This is Us, some of the best movies of the year, and what’s in store for 2020.

Cathy and Todd discuss Dr. Thomas Boyce’s book, The Orchid and the Dandelion and how all children can thrive if given the right environment. They also discuss neurodiversity, This is Us, some of the best movies of the year, and what’s in store for 2020.

It's a double feature as Cathy and Todd interview the CEO of A Call To Men Tony Porter & Author of Raising Good Humans Hunter Clarke-Fields.  

It's a double feature as Cathy and Todd interview the CEO of A Call To Men Tony Porter & Author of Raising Good Humans Hunter Clarke-Fields.  

Cathy and Todd discuss why women are expected to take a man’s last name, and why this can be an important discussion and decision for couples. They discuss the meaning of Miss, Ms, and Mrs., why Queen and Slim and Marriage Story are important movies, and why Carol Spinney, the man who played Big Bird will be missed.

Cathy and Todd discuss why women are expected to take a man’s last name, and why this can be an important discussion and decision for couples. They discuss the meaning of Miss, Ms, and Mrs., why Queen and Slim and Marriage Story are important movies, and why Carol Spinney, the man who played Big Bird will be missed.

Cathy and Todd discuss poetry, Frozen 2, The ZPR Holiday Calendar and setting an intention. 

Cathy and Todd discuss poetry, Frozen 2, The ZPR Holiday Calendar and setting an intention. 

Cathy and Todd discuss the new film "It's A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood" about Mister Rogers as well as a quick take on women's menstruation.  

Cathy and Todd discuss the new film "It's A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood" about Mister Rogers as well as a quick take on women's menstruation.  

Cathy and Todd discuss Imago Dialogue as introduced by Harville Hendrix and Helen LaKelly Hunt's book titled Getting the Love You Want: A Guide for Couples and why it could help your relationships.  

Cathy and Todd discuss Imago Dialogue as introduced by Harville Hendrix and Helen LaKelly Hunt's book titled Getting the Love You Want: A Guide for Couples and why it could help your relationships.  

Cathy and Todd discuss what it means to “feel felt” and how to attune to your partner and children. They also explain why it’s important to understand your child’s experience and not deny their reality.

Cathy and Todd discuss what it means to “feel felt” and how to attune to your partner and children. They also explain why it’s important to understand your child’s experience and not deny their reality.

Cathy and Todd discuss Anna Quindlin’s quote, “The thing that is really hard, and really amazing, is giving up on being perfect and beginning the work of becoming yourself”, and how we can help our kids understand this at an early age. They discuss the anxiety kids feel to do everything right, and why kids from high-achieving schools are now considered “high risk”.

Cathy and Todd discuss Anna Quindlin’s quote, “The thing that is really hard, and really amazing, is giving up on being perfect and beginning the work of becoming yourself”, and how we can help our kids understand this at an early age. They discuss the anxiety kids feel to do everything right, and why kids from high-achieving schools are now considered “high risk”.

We had two special guests on the podcast today - Rosalind Wiseman and our daughter Jacey - you don’t want to miss this discussion about dignity, respect, Euphoria, sex ed, boy group chats and of course, Mean Girls - we will post next week! 💥

We had two special guests on the podcast today - Rosalind Wiseman and our daughter Jacey - you don’t want to miss this discussion about dignity, respect, Euphoria, sex ed, boy group chats and of course, Mean Girls - we will post next week! 💥

Cathy and Todd discuss the difference between self-compassion and self-esteem and why only one is healthy for the individual and family. They share the three components of self-compassion shared by Kristin Neff, and discuss her impact on Brenè Brown and others.

Cathy and Todd discuss the difference between self-compassion and self-esteem and why only one is healthy for the individual and family. They share the three components of self-compassion shared by Kristin Neff, and discuss her impact on Brenè Brown and others.

Cathy and Todd discuss the Adverse Childhood Experiences test, and why California Surgeon General Nadine Burke Harris plans to incorporate it into early-childhood wellness screenings. They discuss how an ACE score determines the long-term health of a child, and why understanding an ACE score can help deepen our self-awareness and evolve our parenting.

Cathy and Todd discuss the Adverse Childhood Experiences test, and why California Surgeon General Nadine Burke Harris plans to incorporate it into early-childhood wellness screenings. They discuss how an ACE score determines the long-term health of a child, and why understanding an ACE score can help deepen our self-awareness and evolve our parenting.

Todd and Cathy discuss how to talk about money and responsibility with your older kids. They discuss Rupture and Repair and how to recognize your own baggage so you can communicate effectively (rather than defensively).

Todd and Cathy discuss how to talk about money and responsibility with your older kids. They discuss Rupture and Repair and how to recognize your own baggage so you can communicate effectively (rather than defensively).

Todd and Cathy interview author/podcaster and all-around amazing guy- Rob Bell

Todd and Cathy interview author/podcaster and all-around amazing guy- Rob Bell

Todd and Cathy discuss the different types Childhood Emotional Neglect (CEN) and why it’s important to recognize our own experiences and blindspots. They discuss Malcolm Gladwell’s new book, Talking to Strangers, and how it can help us think in a more nuanced and expansive way.

Todd and Cathy discuss the different types Childhood Emotional Neglect (CEN) and why it’s important to recognize our own experiences and blindspots. They discuss Malcolm Gladwell’s new book, Talking to Strangers, and how it can help us think in a more nuanced and expansive way.

In the second half of this two part interview, Todd and Cathy talk with friend Dr. John Duffy about his new book Parenting the New Teen in the Age of Anxiety: A Complete Guide to Your Child's Stressed, Depressed, Expanded, Amazing Adolescence They discuss weed, gaming, identity traffic,  and much more.

In the second half of this two part interview, Todd and Cathy talk with friend Dr. John Duffy about his new book Parenting the New Teen in the Age of Anxiety: A Complete Guide to Your Child's Stressed, Depressed, Expanded, Amazing Adolescence They discuss weed, gaming, identity traffic,  and much more.

Todd and Cathy discuss a powerful tool for understanding ourselves and the people in our lives called the Enneagram - it’s a system of nine personality types that combines traditional wisdom with modern psychology. They discuss the light and dark of each number and why understanding the different types develops self-compassion and empathy for others.

Todd and Cathy discuss a powerful tool for understanding ourselves and the people in our lives called the Enneagram - it’s a system of nine personality types that combines traditional wisdom with modern psychology. They discuss the light and dark of each number and why understanding the different types develops self-compassion and empathy for others.

Cathy+Todd introduce the speakers for the 5th annual Zen Parenting Conference, February 28+29, 2020. They share why there’s more to love, more to learn, and MORE TO THE STORY. The 2020 conference is for parents, educators, therapists and definitely TEENS. Go to zenparentingradio.com and click events for your early-bird tickets! Only $25 for a teen ticket!

Cathy+Todd introduce the speakers for the 5th annual Zen Parenting Conference, February 28+29, 2020. They share why there’s more to love, more to learn, and MORE TO THE STORY. The 2020 conference is for parents, educators, therapists and definitely TEENS. Go to zenparentingradio.com and click events for your early-bird tickets! Only $25 for a teen ticket!

Todd and Cathy discuss a powerful tool for understanding ourselves and the people in our lives called the Enneagram - it’s a system of nine personality types that combines traditional wisdom with modern psychology. They discuss the light and dark of each number and why understanding the different types develops self-compassion and empathy for others.

Todd and Cathy discuss a powerful tool for understanding ourselves and the people in our lives called the Enneagram - it’s a system of nine personality types that combines traditional wisdom with modern psychology. They discuss the light and dark of each number and why understanding the different types develops self-compassion and empathy for others.

Cathy and Todd breakdown the manipulation tactic known as gaslighting, where the goal is to abuse or control through lying, manipulating, and destabilizing. They discuss how it can be used by partners, parents, friends, bosses, and the political system, and why self-awareness and reality testing are essential to keep yourself from being victimized. They also discuss Norway’s approach to childhood sports and how its contributed to their record-setting number of Olympic medals.

Cathy and Todd breakdown the manipulation tactic known as gaslighting, where the goal is to abuse or control through lying, manipulating, and destabilizing. They discuss how it can be used by partners, parents, friends, bosses, and the political system, and why self-awareness and reality testing are essential to keep yourself from being victimized. They also discuss Norway’s approach to childhood sports and how its contributed to their record-setting number of Olympic medals.

We couldn’t tape a show this week because Todd was sick ☹, so this is our Pop Culturing Podcast where we talk about the movie Say Anything… (1989) – we share why Lloyd and Diane’s love and friendship inspired us to be better people. We will return to our regularly scheduled programming next week! Say Anything ... is a 1989 American romantic comedy-drama film written and directed by Cameron Crowe in his directorial debut. The film follows the romance between Lloyd Dobler (John Cusack), an average student, and Diane Court (Ione Skye), the class valedictorian, immediately after their graduation from high school. In 2002, Entertainment Weekly ranked Say Anything ... as the greatest modern movie romance, and it was ranked number 11 on Entertainment Weekly's list of the 50 best high-school movies.

We couldn’t tape a show this week because Todd was sick ☹, so this is our Pop Culturing Podcast where we talk about the movie Say Anything… (1989) – we share why Lloyd and Diane’s love and friendship inspired us to be better people. We will return to our regularly scheduled programming next week! Say Anything ... is a 1989 American romantic comedy-drama film written and directed by Cameron Crowe in his directorial debut. The film follows the romance between Lloyd Dobler (John Cusack), an average student, and Diane Court (Ione Skye), the class valedictorian, immediately after their graduation from high school. In 2002, Entertainment Weekly ranked Say Anything ... as the greatest modern movie romance, and it was ranked number 11 on Entertainment Weekly's list of the 50 best high-school movies.

Cathy and Todd discuss the benefit of mental health days after a law passed in Oregon allowing them to be excused. They also discuss the light and dark side of empathy, and how pain and challenge is a an opportunity to become more compassionate toward ourselves and others. The discuss post-traumatic growth and how we are hard-wired to help people in need, especially if we relate to their experience.

Cathy and Todd discuss the benefit of mental health days after a law passed in Oregon allowing them to be excused. They also discuss the light and dark side of empathy, and how pain and challenge is a an opportunity to become more compassionate toward ourselves and others. The discuss post-traumatic growth and how we are hard-wired to help people in need, especially if we relate to their experience.

Cathy and Todd discuss why alone time or time away from your partner can be healthy and connective. They share the benefits and discuss the balance of togetherness and individuation. They share why it’s important to keep a sense of self and why the healthiest partnerships exist within the paradox of safety and adventure.

Cathy and Todd discuss why alone time or time away from your partner can be healthy and connective. They share the benefits and discuss the balance of togetherness and individuation. They share why it’s important to keep a sense of self and why the healthiest partnerships exist within the paradox of safety and adventure.

Cathy and Todd discuss Stranger Things Season 3 and how it deals with grief, trauma, and growing up. They also discuss the “believe women” theme and all of the obvious and less obvious 80’s references.

Cathy and Todd discuss Stranger Things Season 3 and how it deals with grief, trauma, and growing up. They also discuss the “believe women” theme and all of the obvious and less obvious 80’s references.

Cathy and Todd discuss how we all have different approaches to challenging situations, and why there isn’t one way to speak up or solve a problem. They discuss how we can help children build a “self-awareness muscle” through question-asking and curiosity, and why understanding and honoring who we are is a life-long endeavor.

Cathy and Todd discuss how we all have different approaches to challenging situations, and why there isn’t one way to speak up or solve a problem. They discuss how we can help children build a “self-awareness muscle” through question-asking and curiosity, and why understanding and honoring who we are is a life-long endeavor.

Todd and Cathy discuss Jon Krakauer’s book Missoula: Rape and the Justice System in a College Town and the documentary the Bystander Moment (ZPR and The Tribe Men’s Group are hosting a free screening of this movie at the Elmhurst Public Library on July 9th at 7 pm). They discuss the statistics and trauma of sexual assault, and the why it’s important to talk to our kids about entitlement, desire, and consent. They explain what it means to be an Upstander and why supporting and speaking up for others is a socially responsibility.

Todd and Cathy discuss Jon Krakauer’s book Missoula: Rape and the Justice System in a College Town and the documentary the Bystander Moment (ZPR and The Tribe Men’s Group are hosting a free screening of this movie at the Elmhurst Public Library on July 9th at 7 pm). They discuss the statistics and trauma of sexual assault, and the why it’s important to talk to our kids about entitlement, desire, and consent. They explain what it means to be an Upstander and why supporting and speaking up for others is a socially responsibility.

To celebrate their 500th episode and 8 years of podcasting, Todd and Cathy talk with their daughters Jacey (16), Camryn (14), and Skylar (11) about their experiences with “zen” parenting, and discuss the issues confronting teens and pre-teens today. Todd and Cathy also announce the launch of their new podcast, Pop Culturing - they discuss movies, tv shows and books, and break down key moments and little-known facts to touch upon underlying themes of self-awareness and what it means to be human.

To celebrate their 500th episode and 8 years of podcasting, Todd and Cathy talk with their daughters Jacey (16), Camryn (14), and Skylar (11) about their experiences with “zen” parenting, and discuss the issues confronting teens and pre-teens today. Todd and Cathy also announce the launch of their new podcast, Pop Culturing - they discuss movies, tv shows and books, and break down key moments and little-known facts to touch upon underlying themes of self-awareness and what it means to be human.

Cathy and Todd discuss some questions that Lori Gottlieb addresses in her book, Maybe You Should Talk to Someone, and share their own experiences with being the practitioner and the patient.

Cathy and Todd discuss some questions that Lori Gottlieb addresses in her book, Maybe You Should Talk to Someone, and share their own experiences with being the practitioner and the patient.

Cathy and Todd discuss how fatherhood is being redefined and expanded as we learn more about ourselves and gender, Team Zen, Taylor Swift and much more...

Cathy and Todd discuss how fatherhood is being redefined and expanded as we learn more about ourselves and gender, Team Zen, Taylor Swift and much more...

Cathy and Todd discuss Sheryl Paul’s book The Wisdom of Anxiety, and why anxiety is an opportunity to be curious rather than afraid. They discuss how compassion, stillness, and gratitude play a role in understanding and coping with anxiety, and why anxiety is a wound and a messenger. They also discuss the Equal Rights Amendment and how it hasn’t yet been ratified by 38 states.

Cathy and Todd discuss Sheryl Paul’s book The Wisdom of Anxiety, and why anxiety is an opportunity to be curious rather than afraid. They discuss how compassion, stillness, and gratitude play a role in understanding and coping with anxiety, and why anxiety is a wound and a messenger. They also discuss the Equal Rights Amendment and how it hasn’t yet been ratified by 38 states.

Todd and Cathy discuss Sister Joan Chittister and her new book The Time is Now: A Call to Uncommon Courage. They discuss civil discourse, why we get our loves out of order, and why we yearn for the genuine. They discuss why self-care is the first step toward bettering our partnerships, parenting, and engagement in community and activism.

Todd and Cathy discuss Sister Joan Chittister and her new book The Time is Now: A Call to Uncommon Courage. They discuss civil discourse, why we get our loves out of order, and why we yearn for the genuine. They discuss why self-care is the first step toward bettering our partnerships, parenting, and engagement in community and activism.

Todd and Cathy talk with Gemma Hartley, author of Fed Up. They discuss emotional labor, how it affects partnership and parenting, and why it needs to be an evolving and ongoing conversation. Gemma will be taking questions during our Team Zen talk on June 4th – click here to join Team Zen and participate.

Todd and Cathy talk with Gemma Hartley, author of Fed Up. They discuss emotional labor, how it affects partnership and parenting, and why it needs to be an evolving and ongoing conversation. Gemma will be taking questions during our Team Zen talk on June 4th – click here to join Team Zen and participate.

Cathy and Todd discuss why the new laws in Alabama and other states strip women of their reproductive and human rights. They discuss how we have to take a wider view and not assume everyone has access to the same resources or education. They discuss how men make these decisions but remove themselves from what should be legislated or criminalized, and how we could refocus our energy to educate and support all communities. This episode is for mature audiences.

Cathy and Todd discuss why the new laws in Alabama and other states strip women of their reproductive and human rights. They discuss how we have to take a wider view and not assume everyone has access to the same resources or education. They discuss how men make these decisions but remove themselves from what should be legislated or criminalized, and how we could refocus our energy to educate and support all communities. This episode is for mature audiences.

Cathy and Todd discuss girls and stress and play clips from Rich Roll’s interview with Under Pressure author Lisa Damour. They also discuss the conflict between James Charles and Tati Westbrook, and how to talk to boys about being a bystander.

Cathy and Todd discuss girls and stress and play clips from Rich Roll’s interview with Under Pressure author Lisa Damour. They also discuss the conflict between James Charles and Tati Westbrook, and how to talk to boys about being a bystander.

Cathy and Todd talk with Former New York Times reporter KJ Dell’Antonio about her book How to be a Happier Parent. They discuss some common issues that challenge parents, and explore how to decrease the stress and find more joy.

Cathy and Todd talk with Former New York Times reporter KJ Dell’Antonio about her book How to be a Happier Parent. They discuss some common issues that challenge parents, and explore how to decrease the stress and find more joy.

Todd and Cathy discuss how people and organizations are both light and dark, and why it’s important to recognize this in ourselves. They discuss the You Tube Original Show Cobra Kai, specifically the nostalgia and surprises, and how all the characters are multidimensional and imperfect. They also share Carol Cadwalladr’s TED Talk where she calls out the Titans of Tech and Ricky Henderson’s Baseball Hall of Fame speech.

Todd and Cathy discuss how people and organizations are both light and dark, and why it’s important to recognize this in ourselves. They discuss the You Tube Original Show Cobra Kai, specifically the nostalgia and surprises, and how all the characters are multidimensional and imperfect. They also share Carol Cadwalladr’s TED Talk where she calls out the Titans of Tech and Ricky Henderson’s Baseball Hall of Fame speech.

Cathy and Todd discuss a sports psychologist Dr. Michael Gervais interview on Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard.  They discuss the difference between being the best and being your best.  

Cathy and Todd discuss a sports psychologist Dr. Michael Gervais interview on Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard.  They discuss the difference between being the best and being your best.  

Cathy and Todd discuss how to give ourselves permission to change or try something new. They share some wisdom from Oprah’s new book The Path Made Clear, and discuss why trusting and honoring ourselves can strengthen our relationships.

Cathy and Todd discuss how to give ourselves permission to change or try something new. They share some wisdom from Oprah’s new book The Path Made Clear, and discuss why trusting and honoring ourselves can strengthen our relationships.

Todd and Cathy discuss Greg McKeown’s book Essentialism about how we can do less, but better. They discuss how to figure out what’s essential, how to let go of what we no longer need, and how essentialism relates to KonMari and the movie City Slickers.

Todd and Cathy discuss Greg McKeown’s book Essentialism about how we can do less, but better. They discuss how to figure out what’s essential, how to let go of what we no longer need, and how essentialism relates to KonMari and the movie City Slickers.

Cathy and Todd discuss how parenting experts can appear to contradict each other (even when their information is valid), and why we need to know our family and trust our instincts when making parenting decisions. They discuss Gabor Matè’s interview on the Goop podcast, Lori Gottlieb’s interview on NPR’s Fresh Air, and they share MILCK’s #ICANTKEEPQUIET project.

Cathy and Todd discuss how parenting experts can appear to contradict each other (even when their information is valid), and why we need to know our family and trust our instincts when making parenting decisions. They discuss Gabor Matè’s interview on the Goop podcast, Lori Gottlieb’s interview on NPR’s Fresh Air, and they share MILCK’s #ICANTKEEPQUIET project.

Todd and Cathy discuss the lessons from the longest study about happiness from the Harvard Study on Adult Development. They discuss Steven Pinker’s data about the world getting better, and what Bill Gates and Warren Buffet both recommend for a happy life.

Todd and Cathy discuss the lessons from the longest study about happiness from the Harvard Study on Adult Development. They discuss Steven Pinker’s data about the world getting better, and what Bill Gates and Warren Buffet both recommend for a happy life.

Cathy and Todd discuss public shaming and why responsibility, humility, and reflection need to be a part of the process. They discuss John Oliver’s interview with Monica Lewinsky and the college admission scandal.

Cathy and Todd discuss public shaming and why responsibility, humility, and reflection need to be a part of the process. They discuss John Oliver’s interview with Monica Lewinsky and the college admission scandal.

Cathy and Todd speak about the most impactful moments of this year's conference.  

Cathy and Todd speak about the most impactful moments of this year's conference.  

Todd and Cathy discuss Dax Shepard’s interview with Dr. John Gottman, and discuss his research around marriage, parenting, sex, and the key to longevity.

Todd and Cathy discuss Dax Shepard’s interview with Dr. John Gottman, and discuss his research around marriage, parenting, sex, and the key to longevity.

Todd and Cathy discuss why parental self-awareness is essential when our kids are making their life decisions. They discuss how our history plays a role in what we think is best for our kids, and why we need to be clear about what “success” means. They discuss why what worked for us may not work for them, and why staying connected is dependent on honest and vulnerable communication.

Todd and Cathy discuss why parental self-awareness is essential when our kids are making their life decisions. They discuss how our history plays a role in what we think is best for our kids, and why we need to be clear about what “success” means. They discuss why what worked for us may not work for them, and why staying connected is dependent on honest and vulnerable communication.

Cathy and Todd discuss the difference between a punitive (inflicting punishment) and restorative perspective (seeking to understand and address what happened to all involved), and why it’s important to recognize how we parent and why. They discuss why a restorative approach necessitates self-awareness and mindfulness, and why our willingness to effectively communicate with our kids about choices will help them with their decision-making as adults.

Cathy and Todd discuss the difference between a punitive (inflicting punishment) and restorative perspective (seeking to understand and address what happened to all involved), and why it’s important to recognize how we parent and why. They discuss why a restorative approach necessitates self-awareness and mindfulness, and why our willingness to effectively communicate with our kids about choices will help them with their decision-making as adults.

Todd and Cathy discuss why focusing on simple allows other things to flow more easily, and why aligning with what feels right allows determination, grit, and curiosity to show up naturally. They discuss why equifinalityv(the fact that there are many different pathways to the same outcome) is important to acknowledge when we are making choices for ourselves or for our children.

Todd and Cathy discuss why focusing on simple allows other things to flow more easily, and why aligning with what feels right allows determination, grit, and curiosity to show up naturally. They discuss why equifinalityv(the fact that there are many different pathways to the same outcome) is important to acknowledge when we are making choices for ourselves or for our children.

Cathy and Todd discuss the Superbowl and the most impactful commercials, specifically The Washington Post commercial titled Democracy Dies in Darkness. They discuss how the Justice Department minimized the description of domestic violence and why less information can create more problems. They process Lady Gaga’s deposition for Kesha, the Dirty John Podcast, and why connection and listening are the keys to every life relationship.

Cathy and Todd discuss the Superbowl and the most impactful commercials, specifically The Washington Post commercial titled Democracy Dies in Darkness. They discuss how the Justice Department minimized the description of domestic violence and why less information can create more problems. They process Lady Gaga’s deposition for Kesha, the Dirty John Podcast, and why connection and listening are the keys to every life relationship.

Todd and Cathy discuss the shadow parts of themselves that they pretend aren’t there, and Todd shares an activity where he had to act out the parts he tries hardest to repress. They share why the people who annoy us tend to display traits in ourselves that we don’t want to look at, and why accepting all of our parts keeps us whole and develops our compassion.

Todd and Cathy discuss the shadow parts of themselves that they pretend aren’t there, and Todd shares an activity where he had to act out the parts he tries hardest to repress. They share why the people who annoy us tend to display traits in ourselves that we don’t want to look at, and why accepting all of our parts keeps us whole and develops our compassion.

Todd and Cathy discuss the new American Psychological Association (APA) guidelines for men and boys, and why a Gillette ad about healthy masculinity has drawn so much criticism.

Todd and Cathy discuss the new American Psychological Association (APA) guidelines for men and boys, and why a Gillette ad about healthy masculinity has drawn so much criticism.

Todd and Cathy discuss why instead of looking for truth, we can begin to notice the lies that we consistently tell ourselves. They discuss failure, and why Cody Parkey’s kick during the Bears game became a teachable moment. They talk about extended family, noticing our ego, and what we can learn from the movie Cocktail.

Todd and Cathy discuss why instead of looking for truth, we can begin to notice the lies that we consistently tell ourselves. They discuss failure, and why Cody Parkey’s kick during the Bears game became a teachable moment. They talk about extended family, noticing our ego, and what we can learn from the movie Cocktail.

Cathy shares an essay by Mark Nepo about partners who are willing to take turns exploring the outer and the inner. They discuss why equality is like an unwinding onion with limitless new things to explore, while focusing on Glenn Close in The Wife and Amy Adams in Vice. They also talk about what “unlikability” means for female candidates, and why it’s important to discuss specifically what makes us like, believe, or pay attention to person in front of us.

Cathy shares an essay by Mark Nepo about partners who are willing to take turns exploring the outer and the inner. They discuss why equality is like an unwinding onion with limitless new things to explore, while focusing on Glenn Close in The Wife and Amy Adams in Vice. They also talk about what “unlikability” means for female candidates, and why it’s important to discuss specifically what makes us like, believe, or pay attention to person in front of us.

Todd and Cathy share different questions asked by Team Zen members during Zen Talks. Team Zen was created based on feedback from listeners – they wished they could ask Cathy+Todd a question, get resources for a specific challenge, and find a supportive and interactive community. Team Zen does all of this, and more. It includes two live ZenTalks a month, a private Facebook page with resources and Q&A, a premium podcast, and an opportunity to connect with a community of Zen Parents, just like you.

Todd and Cathy share different questions asked by Team Zen members during Zen Talks. Team Zen was created based on feedback from listeners – they wished they could ask Cathy+Todd a question, get resources for a specific challenge, and find a supportive and interactive community. Team Zen does all of this, and more. It includes two live ZenTalks a month, a private Facebook page with resources and Q&A, a premium podcast, and an opportunity to connect with a community of Zen Parents, just like you.

Cathy and Todd discuss why light and dark are part of the holidays, and why every season has a purpose. They discuss Barbara Brown Taylor’s book, Learning to Walk in the Dark, and why embracing dark can make us more compassionate and integrated people. They discuss the challenges of spiritual bypassing and what Wayne Dyer meant when he said, “Learn to die while you are living”.

Cathy and Todd discuss why light and dark are part of the holidays, and why every season has a purpose. They discuss Barbara Brown Taylor’s book, Learning to Walk in the Dark, and why embracing dark can make us more compassionate and integrated people. They discuss the challenges of spiritual bypassing and what Wayne Dyer meant when he said, “Learn to die while you are living”.

Todd and Cathy discuss Jonathan Haidt’s book The Coddling of the American Mind, specifically focusing on the interview with Sam Harris on the Waking Up podcast. They discuss why universities struggle with controversial speakers, why safe spaces were created, and why some people have a hard time viewing emotional pain as valid pain. They process why there are no simple answers, and how each situation carries unique challenges and dynamics that need to be considered.

Todd and Cathy discuss Jonathan Haidt’s book The Coddling of the American Mind, specifically focusing on the interview with Sam Harris on the Waking Up podcast. They discuss why universities struggle with controversial speakers, why safe spaces were created, and why some people have a hard time viewing emotional pain as valid pain. They process why there are no simple answers, and how each situation carries unique challenges and dynamics that need to be considered.

Cathy and Todd introduce four more speakers and four special organizations who will be at the 2019 Zen Parenting Conference. They discuss a podcast featuring Tony Robbins and the author of The Untethered Soul, Michael Singer, and they play a clip from Will Smith about why love is help.

Cathy and Todd introduce four more speakers and four special organizations who will be at the 2019 Zen Parenting Conference. They discuss a podcast featuring Tony Robbins and the author of The Untethered Soul, Michael Singer, and they play a clip from Will Smith about why love is help.

Cathy and Todd discuss Brandi Carlisle’s song The Joke, and why it was written for people who feel “under-represented, unloved or illegal”. They talk about the newest sexual assault allegations, and what needs to be done to create change. The discuss the dignity of George HW Bush, and why his agenda while in office was surprising.

Cathy and Todd discuss Brandi Carlisle’s song The Joke, and why it was written for people who feel “under-represented, unloved or illegal”. They talk about the newest sexual assault allegations, and what needs to be done to create change. The discuss the dignity of George HW Bush, and why his agenda while in office was surprising.

Our friend Josh St. Pierre returns to the show to give us an update on his recent kidney transplant (click here to listen to Josh’s first podcast where he shares his story). He shares what it felt like to get the phone call about the potential match, how he’s reflecting and recovering, and why he’s grateful for the people and lessons learned along the way. Click here to learn more about organ donation.

Our friend Josh St. Pierre returns to the show to give us an update on his recent kidney transplant (click here to listen to Josh’s first podcast where he shares his story). He shares what it felt like to get the phone call about the potential match, how he’s reflecting and recovering, and why he’s grateful for the people and lessons learned along the way. Click here to learn more about organ donation.

Todd and Cathy discuss how we tell our story, and how we can frame it in a way that serves us rather than depletes us. They discuss why mindfulness and sharing our story are essential when dealing with trauma, and also when we are parenting and relating to our children. They discuss Mark Epstein’s books, Sharon Salzberg’s path to compassionate teaching, and why Michelle Obama says we need to own our story.

Todd and Cathy discuss how we tell our story, and how we can frame it in a way that serves us rather than depletes us. They discuss why mindfulness and sharing our story are essential when dealing with trauma, and also when we are parenting and relating to our children. They discuss Mark Epstein’s books, Sharon Salzberg’s path to compassionate teaching, and why Michelle Obama says we need to own our story.

Cathy and Todd discuss Michelle Obama’s new book Becoming, focusing in on some of the best pieces of advice for parents and kids. They discuss why we are always evolving, why growth never ends, and why we should allow our kids (and ourselves) to fail, pivot, and change.

Cathy and Todd discuss Michelle Obama’s new book Becoming, focusing in on some of the best pieces of advice for parents and kids. They discuss why we are always evolving, why growth never ends, and why we should allow our kids (and ourselves) to fail, pivot, and change.

Cathy and Todd discuss anger and how it can be productive, but also be destructive if not monitored. They discuss Pete Davidson’s apology and Lt. Com. Dan Crenshaw’s willingness to accept it on SNL this weekend. They discuss how Bridesmaids and Pitch Perfect allowed the women to be the complex characters, and why Bohemian Rhapsody is so fun to watch.

Cathy and Todd discuss anger and how it can be productive, but also be destructive if not monitored. They discuss Pete Davidson’s apology and Lt. Com. Dan Crenshaw’s willingness to accept it on SNL this weekend. They discuss how Bridesmaids and Pitch Perfect allowed the women to be the complex characters, and why Bohemian Rhapsody is so fun to watch.

Cathy and Todd discuss how fear can be helpful if we are willing to listen and look at what’s it’s trying to say, but destructive if we live from constant state of fear by blaming and dehumanizing. They discuss Dr. Bessel van de Kolk’s book, The Body Keeps Score, and his interview with Krista Tippet on the Being Wise podcast, and how trauma becomes lodged in our bodies and what we can do to move it through. Cathy and Todd share examples of trauma and disconnection from Million Little Things, 8th Grade, The Haunting of Hill House, and the way our current administration is dehumanizing immigrants and people seeking asylum at the border. And if you are reading this on Tuesday, Nov 6th – GO VOTE.

Cathy and Todd discuss how fear can be helpful if we are willing to listen and look at what’s it’s trying to say, but destructive if we live from constant state of fear by blaming and dehumanizing. They discuss Dr. Bessel van de Kolk’s book, The Body Keeps Score, and his interview with Krista Tippet on the Being Wise podcast, and how trauma becomes lodged in our bodies and what we can do to move it through. Cathy and Todd share examples of trauma and disconnection from Million Little Things, 8th Grade, The Haunting of Hill House, and the way our current administration is dehumanizing immigrants and people seeking asylum at the border. And if you are reading this on Tuesday, Nov 6th – GO VOTE.

Cathy and Todd discuss why blame and the belief that we are superior to another causes pain in our family, community and country. They discuss how dehumanization is a weapon to oppress and harm, and why we need to be thoughtful about words we say and write. They also discuss why intimacy coordinators are being used at HBO, why Todd can continue to express himself authentically, and Dax Shepard’s interview with Brenè Brown.

Cathy and Todd discuss why blame and the belief that we are superior to another causes pain in our family, community and country. They discuss how dehumanization is a weapon to oppress and harm, and why we need to be thoughtful about words we say and write. They also discuss why intimacy coordinators are being used at HBO, why Todd can continue to express himself authentically, and Dax Shepard’s interview with Brenè Brown.

Cathy and Todd discuss some great quotes and wisdom gained from Cathy’s weekend with Glennon and Abby at Omega Institute. They discuss why being a “cool girl” is no longer necessary or healthy, why pleasing everyone will exhaust you, and how our wounds can become our greatest source of strength and inspiration. Glennon and Abby are the keynotes at the Zen Parenting Conference on March 8&9, 2019 – get your tickets at zenparentingradio.com.

Cathy and Todd discuss some great quotes and wisdom gained from Cathy’s weekend with Glennon and Abby at Omega Institute. They discuss why being a “cool girl” is no longer necessary or healthy, why pleasing everyone will exhaust you, and how our wounds can become our greatest source of strength and inspiration. Glennon and Abby are the keynotes at the Zen Parenting Conference on March 8&9, 2019 – get your tickets at zenparentingradio.com.

Cathy and Todd discuss Brenè Brown’s new book, Daring to Lead, and apply her well-researched leadership principles to the family structure. They discuss why fear is inevitable, how courage can be practiced, and how we can teach and role model leadership in our homes, so our kids can take it into the world.

Cathy and Todd discuss Brenè Brown’s new book, Daring to Lead, and apply her well-researched leadership principles to the family structure. They discuss why fear is inevitable, how courage can be practiced, and how we can teach and role model leadership in our homes, so our kids can take it into the world.

Cathy and Todd discuss power dynamics within relationships – specifically who has it, how to share it, and how to talk about it. They discuss why taking a measured approach to power – with our kids, in our partnerships, and even on-line - has the potential to teach compassion and deepen relationships. They discuss why stepping back is sometimes necessary, why stepping forward can be powerful, and why This Is Us leads to great family discussions.

Cathy and Todd discuss power dynamics within relationships – specifically who has it, how to share it, and how to talk about it. They discuss why taking a measured approach to power – with our kids, in our partnerships, and even on-line - has the potential to teach compassion and deepen relationships. They discuss why stepping back is sometimes necessary, why stepping forward can be powerful, and why This Is Us leads to great family discussions.

Todd and Cathy discuss the history of not believing women, and why recognizing what we’ve missed and creating change can be messy and difficult. They share clips from a Hidden Brain podcast about how social proof and horizontal action play a role in the #metoo movement, the truth about Anita Hill’s testimony (click here to hear the “You’re Wrong About…” podcast), and why the Duke Lacrosse story became nationally known (click here to see the 30 for 30 documentary trailer). They share the history of “female hysteria”, and why recognizing our own biases and beliefs will allow us to be more compassionate toward ourselves and empathetic toward others.

Todd and Cathy discuss the history of not believing women, and why recognizing what we’ve missed and creating change can be messy and difficult. They share clips from a Hidden Brain podcast about how social proof and horizontal action play a role in the #metoo movement, the truth about Anita Hill’s testimony (click here to hear the “You’re Wrong About…” podcast), and why the Duke Lacrosse story became nationally known (click here to see the 30 for 30 documentary trailer). They share the history of “female hysteria”, and why recognizing our own biases and beliefs will allow us to be more compassionate toward ourselves and empathetic toward others.

Cathy and Todd discuss #WhyIDidntReport and why it’s important to listen, rather than assume we already understand, other people’s stories. They discuss the importance of hearing – women who talk about sexual assault, our spouses, our children – rather than assuming we already understand their experiences. They talk about questioning unconscious bias and share clips from a vulnerable and brave Charles Blow interview.

Cathy and Todd discuss #WhyIDidntReport and why it’s important to listen, rather than assume we already understand, other people’s stories. They discuss the importance of hearing – women who talk about sexual assault, our spouses, our children – rather than assuming we already understand their experiences. They talk about questioning unconscious bias and share clips from a vulnerable and brave Charles Blow interview.

Todd and Cathy discuss how Todd wants to make his daughters watch the documentary "RBG" and how it's not working.  They also talk about a dad who wants to force his daughter to attend "optional" soccer practices. They talk about their own struggle of brand vs. mission for Zen Parenting Radio.  Lastly they play a clip from the "flu" episode. 

Todd and Cathy discuss how Todd wants to make his daughters watch the documentary "RBG" and how it's not working.  They also talk about a dad who wants to force his daughter to attend "optional" soccer practices. They talk about their own struggle of brand vs. mission for Zen Parenting Radio.  Lastly they play a clip from the "flu" episode. 

Cathy and Todd talk with Rea Frey about her new domestic suspense novel, Not Her Daughter. She shares the story behind the book, the conversation it has created, and why it makes the reader question the line between right and wrong. They also discuss modern-day parenting, the trauma of birth, and some real-life kidnapping scares. Not Her Daughter will be made into a major motion picture, and it’s made numerous top book lists for summer, including a shout-out in Us Weekly. Booklist proclaims, "Brings to mind Jodi Picoult...thought-provoking domestic drama."

Cathy and Todd talk with Rea Frey about her new domestic suspense novel, Not Her Daughter. She shares the story behind the book, the conversation it has created, and why it makes the reader question the line between right and wrong. They also discuss modern-day parenting, the trauma of birth, and some real-life kidnapping scares. Not Her Daughter will be made into a major motion picture, and it’s made numerous top book lists for summer, including a shout-out in Us Weekly. Booklist proclaims, "Brings to mind Jodi Picoult...thought-provoking domestic drama."

Todd and Cathy discuss how kids can practice self-care and why a mental health day may reduce their anxiety and possibly decrease the odds of physical illness. They also discuss how couples can discuss balance and equity in the home, and how our society views female anger, specifically Serena Williams anger, during the U.S. Open.

Todd and Cathy discuss how kids can practice self-care and why a mental health day may reduce their anxiety and possibly decrease the odds of physical illness. They also discuss how couples can discuss balance and equity in the home, and how our society views female anger, specifically Serena Williams anger, during the U.S. Open.

Boundaries and Compassion Todd and Cathy discuss boundaries and compassion, and how they are threads that run through so many questions posed by parents, especially during Team Zen conversations. They also share why discussing controversial subjects doesn’t need to create more controversy, and why understanding how Fortnite makes kids feel will help explain why the game is so popular.

Boundaries and Compassion Todd and Cathy discuss boundaries and compassion, and how they are threads that run through so many questions posed by parents, especially during Team Zen conversations. They also share why discussing controversial subjects doesn’t need to create more controversy, and why understanding how Fortnite makes kids feel will help explain why the game is so popular.

Cathy and Todd talk with Dr. Devorah Heitner, author of Screenwise and 2019 Zen Parenting Conference speaker, about supporting/guiding a child through their first-phone experience. They also discuss recent movies such as 8th Grade, BlacKKKlansman, and the new documentary, America to Me, filmed at Oak Park River Forest High School.

Cathy and Todd talk with Dr. Devorah Heitner, author of Screenwise and 2019 Zen Parenting Conference speaker, about supporting/guiding a child through their first-phone experience. They also discuss recent movies such as 8th Grade, BlacKKKlansman, and the new documentary, America to Me, filmed at Oak Park River Forest High School.

Todd and Cathy discuss the rituals and habits the set the tone for our days and nights, and why recognizing and understanding our power is the great success determiner.

Todd and Cathy discuss the rituals and habits the set the tone for our days and nights, and why recognizing and understanding our power is the great success determiner.

Cathy and Todd announce their 2019 Zen Parenting Conference speakers. They share why you MUST get to know these amazing women, read their books, and get your early-bird tickets to the conference. They discuss the difference between FOMO and JOMO and why JOMO can help us lead healthier and more peaceful lives.

Cathy and Todd announce their 2019 Zen Parenting Conference speakers. They share why you MUST get to know these amazing women, read their books, and get your early-bird tickets to the conference. They discuss the difference between FOMO and JOMO and why JOMO can help us lead healthier and more peaceful lives.

Cathy and Todd share a letter from a listener whose son discovers himself through dance, and how this discovery leads to self-aware parenting. It’s an inspirational and emotional story about how to create a connected relationship with your child – you don’t want to miss it. Steve is the father in this story has a part-time photography business which can be found here. Cathy and Todd also discuss Pixar’s Inside Out. See Soren dance below…

Cathy and Todd share a letter from a listener whose son discovers himself through dance, and how this discovery leads to self-aware parenting. It’s an inspirational and emotional story about how to create a connected relationship with your child – you don’t want to miss it. Steve is the father in this story has a part-time photography business which can be found here. Cathy and Todd also discuss Pixar’s Inside Out. See Soren dance below…

Cathy and Todd discuss Episode 4 of the series We Are Man Enough that discusses the #metoo movement.

Cathy and Todd discuss Episode 4 of the series We Are Man Enough that discusses the #metoo movement.

Todd and Cathy discuss Brady Bunch, Serena Williams Wimbeldon interview, how to deal with conflict, empathy, and finding out who you ca count on for honest, yet compassionate feedback.  

Todd and Cathy discuss Brady Bunch, Serena Williams Wimbeldon interview, how to deal with conflict, empathy, and finding out who you ca count on for honest, yet compassionate feedback.  

Todd and Cathy discuss one of Toby’s quotes from This is Us, and explain why his wisdom could strengthen any relationship. They discuss how to love our inner child without letting it take control, and why there are always only two options, love or fear. They share wisdom from Richard Rohr and Gary Zukov and some humor from Friends.

Todd and Cathy discuss one of Toby’s quotes from This is Us, and explain why his wisdom could strengthen any relationship. They discuss how to love our inner child without letting it take control, and why there are always only two options, love or fear. They share wisdom from Richard Rohr and Gary Zukov and some humor from Friends.

Todd and Cathy speak with Co-Founder of Threads Worldwide. An organization that creates life-changing work with women around the world through the fair trade of artisan jewelry. In 2011 they founded Threads Worldwide to weave together the collaboration and collective power of women everywhere.

Todd and Cathy speak with Co-Founder of Threads Worldwide. An organization that creates life-changing work with women around the world through the fair trade of artisan jewelry. In 2011 they founded Threads Worldwide to weave together the collaboration and collective power of women everywhere.

Cathy and Todd discuss a productive definition of hope based on insight from Parker Palmer and Howard Thurman. They discuss Hannah Gadsby’s Netflix Comedy Special and share why her bravery and willingness to speak up is leading the way.

Cathy and Todd discuss a productive definition of hope based on insight from Parker Palmer and Howard Thurman. They discuss Hannah Gadsby’s Netflix Comedy Special and share why her bravery and willingness to speak up is leading the way.

Todd and Cathy talk with Jayson Gaddis & Ellen Boeder, partners and cofounders of The Relationship School. Jayson also hosts the Smart Couple Podcast, and Ellen is a therapist with a private practice. They discuss how couples grow and thrive, why men have a harder time focusing on personal growth, and why connection and self-understanding are the keys to an empowered life.

Todd and Cathy talk with Jayson Gaddis & Ellen Boeder, partners and cofounders of The Relationship School. Jayson also hosts the Smart Couple Podcast, and Ellen is a therapist with a private practice. They discuss how couples grow and thrive, why men have a harder time focusing on personal growth, and why connection and self-understanding are the keys to an empowered life.

Todd and Cathy talk with Patty Monahan, founder of Our Whole Village, a company that specializes in family vacations and adventures. They discuss why travel is so important at every age, why we should teach our children to be global citizens, and why travel creates confident parents and strong families.

Todd and Cathy talk with Patty Monahan, founder of Our Whole Village, a company that specializes in family vacations and adventures. They discuss why travel is so important at every age, why we should teach our children to be global citizens, and why travel creates confident parents and strong families.

Cathy and Todd talk with Debbie Reber, author of Differently Wired: Raising an Exceptional Child in a Conventional World. They discuss why this book is rally cry for all parents raising exceptional children, and why it benefits every parent to listen and understand differences. Debbie also shares 18 powerful “tilts” or paradigm shifts that can change how we see ourselves and our children.

Cathy and Todd talk with Debbie Reber, author of Differently Wired: Raising an Exceptional Child in a Conventional World. They discuss why this book is rally cry for all parents raising exceptional children, and why it benefits every parent to listen and understand differences. Debbie also shares 18 powerful “tilts” or paradigm shifts that can change how we see ourselves and our children.

Todd and Cathy talk with Josh St. Pierre, a 42 year old full-time soccer coach who is need of a kidney. Josh explains why live liver and kidney donation is essential and how to figure out if you are a match with someone on the registry. He also shares his story, starting with being diagnosed with kidney failure at 30, and why he is willing to ask for help and speak up for every person needing organ donation. If you're interested in being a living donor, please call 312-695-0828 and say you're interested in being a living donor on behalf of Josh St. Pierre.

Todd and Cathy talk with Josh St. Pierre, a 42 year old full-time soccer coach who is need of a kidney. Josh explains why live liver and kidney donation is essential and how to figure out if you are a match with someone on the registry. He also shares his story, starting with being diagnosed with kidney failure at 30, and why he is willing to ask for help and speak up for every person needing organ donation. If you're interested in being a living donor, please call 312-695-0828 and say you're interested in being a living donor on behalf of Josh St. Pierre.

Todd and Cathy discuss a recent emotional labor issue and why it created an important discussion about invisible work. They also discuss the deaths of Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain, and discuss why allowing our darkness and discussing mental wellness is essential. They offer a recipe for fulfillment and share why we need to call women’s sports just “sports”.

Todd and Cathy discuss a recent emotional labor issue and why it created an important discussion about invisible work. They also discuss the deaths of Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain, and discuss why allowing our darkness and discussing mental wellness is essential. They offer a recipe for fulfillment and share why we need to call women’s sports just “sports”.

Cathy and Todd discuss Abby Wambach’s graduation speech at Barnard and why it made such an impact. They share wisdom from Franciscan friar Richard Rohr about why it’s so easy to remember the negative, but so difficult to absorb the positive.

Cathy and Todd discuss Abby Wambach’s graduation speech at Barnard and why it made such an impact. They share wisdom from Franciscan friar Richard Rohr about why it’s so easy to remember the negative, but so difficult to absorb the positive.

Cathy and Todd talk with Karen Brody, author of Daring to Rest: Reclaim Your Power with Yoga Nidra Rest Meditation. They discuss why women feel so much pressure to be productive, and why we need to redefine what rest really means. They discuss the power of yoga nidra, why it makes such a difference physically, emotionally, and spiritually, and why intention is an essential part of the process. Karen is also the creator/writer of Birth, a play about how low-risk, educated women are giving birth today. Since 2006 the play been performed around the world as part of BOLD, an arts-based global movement inspiring communities to create childbirth choices that work for mothers.

Cathy and Todd talk with Karen Brody, author of Daring to Rest: Reclaim Your Power with Yoga Nidra Rest Meditation. They discuss why women feel so much pressure to be productive, and why we need to redefine what rest really means. They discuss the power of yoga nidra, why it makes such a difference physically, emotionally, and spiritually, and why intention is an essential part of the process. Karen is also the creator/writer of Birth, a play about how low-risk, educated women are giving birth today. Since 2006 the play been performed around the world as part of BOLD, an arts-based global movement inspiring communities to create childbirth choices that work for mothers.

Cathy and Todd discuss Dr. Robin Berman’s book, Permission to Parent, and also her interview on the goop podcast. They discuss how our brain grows on love, why group-think starts in childhood, and why continuing to seek the approval of your parents can be detrimental to your present-day relationships.

Cathy and Todd discuss Dr. Robin Berman’s book, Permission to Parent, and also her interview on the goop podcast. They discuss how our brain grows on love, why group-think starts in childhood, and why continuing to seek the approval of your parents can be detrimental to your present-day relationships.

Cathy and Todd talk with International Best-Selling Author Charlie Donlea.  They talk about each of his three books including his latest and greatest "Don't Believe It"  They also talk pop culture, Serial, The Making Of A Murderer, baseball, and Dungeons & Dragons.  Won't want to miss this one!!!!

Cathy and Todd talk with International Best-Selling Author Charlie Donlea.  They talk about each of his three books including his latest and greatest "Don't Believe It"  They also talk pop culture, Serial, The Making Of A Murderer, baseball, and Dungeons & Dragons.  Won't want to miss this one!!!!

Cathy and Todd discuss intersectionality, a way of describing how multiple threats of discrimination exist when an individual’s identities overlap with several minority classes — such as race, gender, age, ethnicity, health and other characteristics. They discuss why we need to recognize our differences and listen to each other so we can begin to view experiences through a broader and more inclusive lense. They share how this can affect parenting and how it can shape our world view and make it easier for us to take care of each other. They share clips from Franchesca Ramsey and Laci Green, and recommend Kimberlè Crenshaw’s TED Talk titled, The Urgency of Intersectionality.

Cathy and Todd discuss intersectionality, a way of describing how multiple threats of discrimination exist when an individual’s identities overlap with several minority classes — such as race, gender, age, ethnicity, health and other characteristics. They discuss why we need to recognize our differences and listen to each other so we can begin to view experiences through a broader and more inclusive lense. They share how this can affect parenting and how it can shape our world view and make it easier for us to take care of each other. They share clips from Franchesca Ramsey and Laci Green, and recommend Kimberlè Crenshaw’s TED Talk titled, The Urgency of Intersectionality.

In part 1 of this 2 part interview- Todd and Cathy talk with Sara Knizhnik, Campaign Organizer at Illinois Council Against Handgun Violence, and Diane Lans-Kautz, Leader of the Moms Demand Action Chapter in Elmhurst. They discuss how Moms Demand Action started, how members are making a difference at the state and federal level, and why it’s a bipartisan group (that supports the 2nd amendment) that is not just for moms. They discuss legislation, other groups and individuals that are making a difference, and how we can all get involved to decrease the epidemic of gun violence that is now a public health issue.

In this two-part interview, Todd and Cathy talk with Sara Knizhnik, Campaign Organizer at Illinois Council Against Handgun Violence, & Diane Lans-Kautz, Leader of the Moms Demand Action Chapter in Elmhurst. They discuss how Moms Demand Action started, how members are making a difference at the state and federal level, and why it’s a bipartisan group (that supports the 2nd amendment) that is not just for moms. They discuss legislation, other groups and individuals that are making a difference, and how we can all get involved to decrease the epidemic of gun violence that is now a public health issue. Link to Part 1:  https://zenparentingradio.com/podcasts/433/ Resources/Videos used on today's show https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sf68LZ-yagM&t=3s JOIN US TEAM ZEN- VIRTUAL COMMUNITY WITH TODD+CATHY  Upcoming Events 2019 Zen Parenting Conference CLICK HERE for a list of all upcoming events Current Month Event Type AllClassesConferencesFeaturedMovie ScreeningsTeamZenThe Tribe Men Event Topic AllDealing with AnxietyLiving with CompassionParent Empowerment via Self-awareness Event Location All1440 Multiversity1440 Multiversity in Scotts Valley, CAAlter Brewing CompanyCamp EdwardsCommunity Consolidated School District #93 Admin CenterEaglewood Resort & SpaElmhurst Public LibraryElmhurst Public Library, virtualElmwood Elementary SchoolGlenbard Parent SeriesHGNAHilton Chicago/Oak Brook Hills Resort & Conference CenterJackson ParkLive Video ConferenceMountain Mama SummitNazareth AcademyRobert Crown Center for Health EducationTeamZen CircleThe Lincoln CenterThe Lincoln Center AuditoriumThe Lincoln Center Auditorium in Downers Grove, ILThe Well North ShoreThe Westin Lombard Yorktown Center | Chicago, ILVirtual Class via Zoom TechnologyYork Theatre: Classic CinemasZoom No Events

In part 1 of this 2 part interview- Todd and Cathy talk with Sara Knizhnik, Campaign Organizer at Illinois Council Against Handgun Violence, and Diane Lans-Kautz, Leader of the Moms Demand Action Chapter in Elmhurst. They discuss how Moms Demand Action started, how members are making a difference at the state and federal level, and why it’s a bipartisan group (that supports the 2nd amendment) that is not just for moms. They discuss legislation, other groups and individuals that are making a difference, and how we can all get involved to decrease the epidemic of gun violence that is now a public health issue.

In this two-part interview, Todd and Cathy talk with Sara Knizhnik, Campaign Organizer at Illinois Council Against Handgun Violence, & Diane Lans-Kautz, Leader of the Moms Demand Action Chapter in Elmhurst. They discuss how Moms Demand Action started, how members are making a difference at the state and federal level, and why it’s a bipartisan group (that supports the 2nd amendment) that is not just for moms. They discuss legislation, other groups and individuals that are making a difference, and how we can all get involved to decrease the epidemic of gun violence that is now a public health issue. Link to Part 1:  http://zenparentingradio.com/podcasts/433/ Resources/Videos used on today's show https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sf68LZ-yagM&t=3s JOIN US TEAM ZEN- VIRTUAL COMMUNITY WITH TODD+CATHY  Upcoming Events 2019 Zen Parenting Conference CLICK HERE for a list of all upcoming events Current Month Event Type AllClassesConferencesFeaturedMovie ScreeningsTeamZenThe Tribe Men Event Topic AllDealing with AnxietyLiving with CompassionParent Empowerment via Self-awareness Event Location All1440 Multiversity1440 Multiversity in Scotts Valley, CAAlter Brewing CompanyCamp EdwardsCommunity Consolidated School District #93 Admin CenterEaglewood Resort & SpaElmhurst Public LibraryElmhurst Public Library, virtualElmwood Elementary SchoolGlenbard Parent SeriesHGNAHilton Chicago/Oak Brook Hills Resort & Conference CenterJackson ParkLive Video ConferenceMountain Mama SummitNazareth AcademyRobert Crown Center for Health EducationTeamZen CircleThe Lincoln CenterThe Lincoln Center AuditoriumThe Lincoln Center Auditorium in Downers Grove, ILThe Well North ShoreThe Westin Lombard Yorktown Center | Chicago, ILVirtual Class via Zoom TechnologyYork Theatre: Classic CinemasZoom No Events

Todd and Cathy continue discussing Julie Lythcott-Haims’ book, How to Raise an Adult, specifically focusing on what our kids should know before they venture out on their own. They share a clip from Luvvie Ajayi’s TED Talk about the importance of speaking up, even when it’s uncomfortable, and why “keeping the peace” can keep us stuck in time. Todd shares a clip from a highly emotionally-intelligent father who understands how to reach his daughter, even while she’s under duress.

Todd and Cathy continue discussing Julie Lythcott-Haims’ book, How to Raise an Adult, specifically focusing on what our kids should know before they venture out on their own. They share a clip from Luvvie Ajayi’s TED Talk about the importance of speaking up, even when it’s uncomfortable, and why “keeping the peace” can keep us stuck in time. Todd shares a clip from a highly emotionally-intelligent father who understands how to reach his daughter, even while she’s under duress.

Todd and Cathy discuss a practical checklist of what kids need before they go to college written by Julie Lythcott-Haims, author of How to Raise an Adult. The checklist offers intention and clarity, and recognizes that skills develop over time in a child-developmentally appropriate way. They also discuss why Todd wanted to play Cashflow for his birthday, and why financial awareness is necessary education for our kids.

Todd and Cathy discuss a practical checklist of what kids need before they go to college written by Julie Lythcott-Haims, author of How to Raise an Adult. The checklist offers intention and clarity, and recognizes that skills develop over time in a child-developmentally appropriate way. They also discuss why Todd wanted to play Cashflow for his birthday, and why financial awareness is necessary education for our kids.

Cathy and Todd discuss the Super Soul Podcast conversation between Amy Schumer and Oprah about her new movie, I Feel Pretty. They talk about trusting your intention, why emotional labor is vital to the health of the family, and why accepting yourself leads to real confidence and a deeper connection with others.

Cathy and Todd discuss the Super Soul Podcast conversation between Amy Schumer and Oprah about her new movie, I Feel Pretty. They talk about trusting your intention, why emotional labor is vital to the health of the family, and why accepting yourself leads to real confidence and a deeper connection with others.

Todd and Cathy discuss the emotional challenges of American men and why this impacts every part of our society. Their guests, Frank Naugo and Shaun Emerson, discuss why men struggle with intimacy, vulnerability, and friendship, and why anger or numbness can become a default setting. They share clips from the Hidden Brain podcast titled How American Masculinity Creates Lonely Men, and discuss how we can redefine what it means to be a man.

Todd and Cathy discuss the emotional challenges of American men and why this impacts every part of our society. Their guests, Frank Naugo and Shaun Emerson, discuss why men struggle with intimacy, vulnerability, and friendship, and why anger or numbness can become a default setting. They share clips from the Hidden Brain podcast titled How American Masculinity Creates Lonely Men, and discuss how we can redefine what it means to be a man.

Todd and Cathy discuss “moral outrage” and how to use it to create positive change. They explain how society tends to value a clean and concise way of thinking, but how thinking out of the box or seeing the bigger picture can lead to greater compassion and connection. They discuss how to support a child who doesn’t want to share, why spaghetti thinking is as important as waffle thinking, and why archetypes can help us understand ourselves better.

Todd and Cathy discuss “moral outrage” and how to use it to create positive change. They explain how society tends to value a clean and concise way of thinking, but how thinking out of the box or seeing the bigger picture can lead to greater compassion and connection. They discuss how to support a child who doesn’t want to share, why spaghetti thinking is as important as waffle thinking, and why archetypes can help us understand ourselves better.

Todd and Cathy welcome their friends John and Julie Duffy, hosts of the Better Podcast (formerly titled Undue Anxiety). They talk about Tony Robbins, the #MeToo movement, and why listening and respecting others is essential for real change. They discuss couplehood, family dynamics, and how we can live in joy but always leave room for the dark.

Todd and Cathy welcome their friends John and Julie Duffy, hosts of the Better Podcast (formerly titled Undue Anxiety). They talk about Tony Robbins, the #MeToo movement, and why listening and respecting others is essential for real change. They discuss couplehood, family dynamics, and how we can live in joy but always leave room for the dark.

Cathy and Todd discuss how to recognize when we are showing up authentically rather than performing. They also discuss how to deal with a child who seems consistently disappointed, and why taking responsibility for our own behavior is key. Todd shares a clip about investing from Freakonomics, Cathy discusses the joy of Funko characters, and they offer some wisdom from Tommy Boy.

Cathy and Todd discuss how to recognize when we are showing up authentically rather than performing. They also discuss how to deal with a child who seems consistently disappointed, and why taking responsibility for our own behavior is key. Todd shares a clip about investing from Freakonomics, Cathy discusses the joy of Funko characters, and they offer some wisdom from Tommy Boy.

Todd & Cathy Discuss the 4 different types of fears as described by Iyanla Vanzandt, Dierk's Bentley, Bruce Willis' wine cooler commercial, Eddie Murphy's single "Party All The Time", and how we've all already done the hardest thing we will ever do.  

Todd & Cathy Discuss the 4 different types of fears as described by Iyanla Vanzandt, Dierk's Bentley, Bruce Willis' wine cooler commercial, Eddie Murphy's single "Party All The Time", and how we've all already done the hardest thing we will ever do.  

Todd shares a story of a softball coach who proclaims "boys are stronger than girls" and what happened after that statement was made. They also discuss why focusing on too many things makes us feel overwhelmed and paralyzed, and why choosing one thing helps us take action and create real change (they share examples from MOMS Demand Action and from A Wrinkle in Time). They share how they created their women’s circle/men’s group, why we should speak up for others, and they play a new song by Lin-Manuel Miranda and Ben Platt called Found/Tonight (some proceeds go toward the March For Our Lives).

Todd shares a story of a softball coach who proclaims "boys are stronger than girls" and what happened after that statement was made. They also discuss why focusing on too many things makes us feel overwhelmed and paralyzed, and why choosing one thing helps us take action and create real change (they share examples from MOMS Demand Action and from A Wrinkle in Time). They share how they created their women’s circle/men’s group, why we should speak up for others, and they play a new song by Lin-Manuel Miranda and Ben Platt called Found/Tonight (some proceeds go toward the March For Our Lives).

Cathy and Todd discuss the question that they hear the most – “How can I get my partner to….” - they discuss why this question is multi-layered, messy, and not easily answered. They discuss why wanting to change others feels easier than changing ourselves, why true wisdom comes from quiet, and the life-changing advice Oprah has for all people.

Cathy and Todd discuss the question that they hear the most – “How can I get my partner to….” - they discuss why this question is multi-layered, messy, and not easily answered. They discuss why wanting to change others feels easier than changing ourselves, why true wisdom comes from quiet, and the life-changing advice Oprah has for all people.

Todd and Cathy discuss Cheryl Strayed, MILCK, Mike Domitrz and all the goodness from the 2018 Zen Parenting Conference. They discuss the most frequently asked question ZPR question, the Oscars, and how we can all become forces for good.

Todd and Cathy discuss Cheryl Strayed, MILCK, Mike Domitrz and all the goodness from the 2018 Zen Parenting Conference. They discuss the most frequently asked question ZPR question, the Oscars, and how we can all become forces for good.

Todd and Cathy discuss The Gentle Warrior’s Manifesto to Reduce Busyness from Courtney Carver’s book, Soulful Simplicity, and they discuss a Freakonomic’s podcast titled After the Glass Ceiling, A Glass Cliff, about why only 5% of Fortune 500 companies are run by women. They share why men and women eat Doritos differently, why we need to linger longer, and why Cathy loves Lionel Richie.

Todd and Cathy discuss The Gentle Warrior’s Manifesto to Reduce Busyness from Courtney Carver’s book, Soulful Simplicity, and they discuss a Freakonomic’s podcast titled After the Glass Ceiling, A Glass Cliff, about why only 5% of Fortune 500 companies are run by women. They share why men and women eat Doritos differently, why we need to linger longer, and why Cathy loves Lionel Richie.

Todd and Cathy discuss the Parkland tragedy, and talk about why it’s time to take action to keep our kids safe at school. They explain how we can take on all pieces of the puzzle – common sense laws, mental wellness, and community/parent/school support – rather than fight about which one matters the most. They also discuss Dr. Dan Siegel’s book Brainstorm, and process how the teenage brain works and why it’s necessary for teenagers to take risks.

Todd and Cathy discuss the Parkland tragedy, and talk about why it’s time to take action to keep our kids safe at school. They explain how we can take on all pieces of the puzzle – common sense laws, mental wellness, and community/parent/school support – rather than fight about which one matters the most. They also discuss Dr. Dan Siegel’s book Brainstorm, and process how the teenage brain works and why it’s necessary for teenagers to take risks.

Cathy and Todd discuss why we are always evolving, and share a clip from The Robcast about why humility is essential. They discuss why it’s never too late to excel at sports or other activities, why procrastination may not be such a bad thing, and why Slow TV on Netflix is so soothing.

Cathy and Todd discuss why we are always evolving, and share a clip from The Robcast about why humility is essential. They discuss why it’s never too late to excel at sports or other activities, why procrastination may not be such a bad thing, and why Slow TV on Netflix is so soothing.

Todd and Cathy share some of the touching and funny Superbowl commercials, and they discuss a video of Will Smith explaining why fault and responsibility are two different things. Cathy shares some of her favorite self-compassion quotes, and they discuss why some quotes wake us up or resonate so strongly. Todd discusses his gullibility, he defends Taylor Swift, and he shares an aha from our Zen Parenting Conference keynote speaker Mike Domitrz.

Todd and Cathy share some of the touching and funny Superbowl commercials, and they discuss a video of Will Smith explaining why fault and responsibility are two different things. Cathy shares some of her favorite self-compassion quotes, and they discuss why some quotes wake us up or resonate so strongly. Todd discusses his gullibility, he defends Taylor Swift, and he shares an aha from our Zen Parenting Conference keynote speaker Mike Domitrz.

Cathy and Todd discuss the road to wellness and why shame, judgment, anxiety, and hope all play a role. They also discuss why asking for help is so essential, and why asking for help is an act of bravery and strength. They discuss what it means to be a strength-based parent and play a clip from Lea Waters, author of The Strength Switch. Todd plays a clip from the TED Talk podcast about how people with less money actually give more to those in need, and how exposure and empathy are the keys to greater giving.

Cathy and Todd discuss the road to wellness and why shame, judgment, anxiety, and hope all play a role. They also discuss why asking for help is so essential, and why asking for help is an act of bravery and strength. They discuss what it means to be a strength-based parent and play a clip from Lea Waters, author of The Strength Switch. Todd plays a clip from the TED Talk podcast about how people with less money actually give more to those in need, and how exposure and empathy are the keys to greater giving.

Cathy and Todd discuss the challenges of healing and why honesty and support are essential. They talk about how each of us are challenged to do hard things, and how not doing our own work leads to projection. They discuss how to talk to your kids about difficult topics like sex, and how living a “healthy life” means something different to everyone depending on their circumstances.

Cathy and Todd discuss the challenges of healing and why honesty and support are essential. They talk about how each of us are challenged to do hard things, and how not doing our own work leads to projection. They discuss how to talk to your kids about difficult topics like sex, and how living a “healthy life” means something different to everyone depending on their circumstances.

Todd+Cathy discuss Cathy's recovery of the flu as well as an inspirational exchange between Sarah Silverman and one of her followers.  

Todd+Cathy discuss Cathy's recovery of the flu as well as an inspirational exchange between Sarah Silverman and one of her followers.  

Yup- Cathy has the flu :(  We're gonna shoot for another one at the end of the week.  if not, next Tuesday for sure.  Sorry for the inconvenience.  Keep truckin' Todd

Yup- Cathy has the flu :(  We're gonna shoot for another one at the end of the week.  if not, next Tuesday for sure.  Sorry for the inconvenience.  Keep truckin' Todd

Todd+Cathy discuss how to “let go” and “bring in” for the new year, and how to wake up to our lives in 2018. They discuss how Steve Bartman and Bill Buckner became the scapegoats for their perspective cities pain, and how we tend to project all blame on one person or event in our own lives. They explain why the science of achievement and the art of fulfillment work well together, and why humor is essential in the midst of challenges.

Todd+Cathy discuss how to “let go” and “bring in” for the new year, and how to wake up to our lives in 2018. They discuss how Steve Bartman and Bill Buckner became the scapegoats for their perspective cities pain, and how we tend to project all blame on one person or event in our own lives. They explain why the science of achievement and the art of fulfillment work well together, and why humor is essential in the midst of challenges.

Cathy and Todd discuss their favorite things from 2017, and share why faith played a big role this year. They answer some questions posed in the Tim Ferriss book, Tribe of Mentors, reflect on growing up in the 80’s and 90’s, and share why they are hopeful for 2018.

Cathy and Todd discuss their favorite things from 2017, and share why faith played a big role this year. They answer some questions posed in the Tim Ferriss book, Tribe of Mentors, reflect on growing up in the 80’s and 90’s, and share why they are hopeful for 2018.

Todd and Cathy talk about how meaning relates to happiness and joy, and how this knowledge can make our holidays less stressful and our parenting more conscious. They also discuss the benefits of Forest Bathing and share why trees can be our best teachers. They discuss the benefits of being cold, the zen-ness of their rabbit, and the need for more optimistic TV shows and movies.

Todd and Cathy talk about how meaning relates to happiness and joy, and how this knowledge can make our holidays less stressful and our parenting more conscious. They also discuss the benefits of Forest Bathing and share why trees can be our best teachers. They discuss the benefits of being cold, the zen-ness of their rabbit, and the need for more optimistic TV shows and movies.

Todd and Cathy talk with Mike Domitrz, Founder of The Date Safe Project and 2018 Zen Parenting Conference keynote speaker. They discuss they #metoo movement and what comes next – how does this change our behavior? How will this impact our relationships and society overall? How can it influence our parenting? Mike offers his expertise and support as we all navigate this ever-changing and uncertain time.

Todd and Cathy talk with Mike Domitrz, Founder of The Date Safe Project and 2018 Zen Parenting Conference keynote speaker. They discuss they #metoo movement and what comes next – how does this change our behavior? How will this impact our relationships and society overall? How can it influence our parenting? Mike offers his expertise and support as we all navigate this ever-changing and uncertain time.

Cathy and Todd share how we can take care of ourselves and say no during the holidays without feeling guilt. They discuss Shauna Niequist’s book Present Over Perfect and why our decision to be good to ourselves allows us to be more present for the ones we love. They also discuss why discomfort and confusion during this time of #metoo is normal and necessary for change, and how we can be more thoughtful and self-aware about our choices. It’s awards season again! Cathy shares the Golden Globe Best Picture nominees.

Cathy and Todd share how we can take care of ourselves and say no during the holidays without feeling guilt. They discuss Shauna Niequist’s book Present Over Perfect and why our decision to be good to ourselves allows us to be more present for the ones we love. They also discuss why discomfort and confusion during this time of #metoo is normal and necessary for change, and how we can be more thoughtful and self-aware about our choices. It’s awards season again! Cathy shares the Golden Globe Best Picture nominees.

Todd and Cathy discuss how inequality can lead to challenging and often unconscious communication, and they share some civil statements that women can use to feel heard. They discuss common unconscious double standards in private life and the workplace, and explain why the skit “Welcome to Hell” from Saturday Night Live was so thought-provoking. They share a moment from A Very Brady Christmas, some wisdom from Zen Parenting Conference keynote Mike Domitrz from The Date Safe Project, and a powerful speech from actor Jeff Daniels.

Todd and Cathy discuss how inequality can lead to challenging and often unconscious communication, and they share some civil statements that women can use to feel heard. They discuss common unconscious double standards in private life and the workplace, and explain why the skit “Welcome to Hell” from Saturday Night Live was so thought-provoking. They share a moment from A Very Brady Christmas, some wisdom from Zen Parenting Conference keynote Mike Domitrz from The Date Safe Project, and a powerful speech from actor Jeff Daniels.

Todd and Cathy discuss how they experience the world differently, and why understanding and respecting these differences lead to better communication. They talk about why connection is like nourishment, and why not connecting can make us feel uncomfortable mentally and physically. They discuss Gretchen Rubin’s Four Tendencies and share which tendency describes their underlying motivation. They talk about the movie Wonder, owning our stuff, and why sexual assault allegations are uncovering a deeply-embedded systemic issue.

Todd and Cathy discuss how they experience the world differently, and why understanding and respecting these differences lead to better communication. They talk about why connection is like nourishment, and why not connecting can make us feel uncomfortable mentally and physically. They discuss Gretchen Rubin’s Four Tendencies and share which tendency describes their underlying motivation. They talk about the movie Wonder, owning our stuff, and why sexual assault allegations are uncovering a deeply-embedded systemic issue.

Todd and Cathy discuss Jessica Lahey’s The Gift of Failure, and discuss why allowing our kids to make mistakes will help them succeed. They also discuss the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, why rewards and punishment don’t work, and why praising our kids for effort rather than outcome will lead to greater success and a healthier sense of self. They play a clip of a Hillary Clinton interview on the Dear Sugar podcast, a commercial about failure from Michael Jordan, and discuss Carol Dweck’s book Mindset.

Todd and Cathy discuss Jessica Lahey’s The Gift of Failure, and discuss why allowing our kids to make mistakes will help them succeed. They also discuss the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, why rewards and punishment don’t work, and why praising our kids for effort rather than outcome will lead to greater success and a healthier sense of self. They play a clip of a Hillary Clinton interview on the Dear Sugar podcast, a commercial about failure from Michael Jordan, and discuss Carol Dweck’s book Mindset.

Cathy and Todd discuss The Five Invitations, a book that shows us how to wake up fully to our lives. As a compassionate teacher and cofounder of the Zen Hospice Project, author Frank Ostaseski supports the dying. His five invitations dive into the suffering, joy, and inevitability of death, and why embracing this wisdom will lead to a more mindful and compassionate life. Cathy and Todd use clips from Dead Poets Society and Star Wars to highlight his points, and discuss why this book empowered them to live with greater intention and meaning.

Cathy and Todd discuss The Five Invitations, a book that shows us how to wake up fully to our lives. As a compassionate teacher and cofounder of the Zen Hospice Project, author Frank Ostaseski supports the dying. His five invitations dive into the suffering, joy, and inevitability of death, and why embracing this wisdom will lead to a more mindful and compassionate life. Cathy and Todd use clips from Dead Poets Society and Star Wars to highlight his points, and discuss why this book empowered them to live with greater intention and meaning.

Todd and Cathy discuss an article in Harpers Bazaar titled “Women aren’t nags, we’re just fed up” about emotional labor and the sensitivity surrounding this topic. They discuss how to have a productive conversation about what it really takes to manage a house, and why it’s not always true that men are “problem solvers” and women are “sensitive”. They discuss how they are challenged with this issue, how it’s easy to go on autopilot, and why this is an ongoing discussion and not a one-time conversation. They explain how this relates to gender issues overall and what we are all currently modeling for both our daughters and sons. If you find this discussion interesting, join Cathy+Todd for a one-time virtual class about civility and compassion (in the home and for the holidays), and why the way we talk to our loved ones extends into the world. Click here to register.

Todd and Cathy discuss an article in Harpers Bazaar titled “Women aren’t nags, we’re just fed up” about emotional labor and the sensitivity surrounding this topic. They discuss how to have a productive conversation about what it really takes to manage a house, and why it’s not always true that men are “problem solvers” and women are “sensitive”. They discuss how they are challenged with this issue, how it’s easy to go on autopilot, and why this is an ongoing discussion and not a one-time conversation. They explain how this relates to gender issues overall and what we are all currently modeling for both our daughters and sons. If you find this discussion interesting, join Cathy+Todd for a one-time virtual class about civility and compassion (in the home and for the holidays), and why the way we talk to our loved ones extends into the world. Click here to register.

Todd and Cathy discuss why it’s OK for kids to change their minds and try new things, and why it’s important for adults to do this, too. They discuss how self-awareness is essential, and how self-forgiveness and understanding are also essential because we will always be a mystery (the great paradox!). They discuss the offensive gesture during the world series, how they managed their daughter’s crying episode, Byron Katie’s “The Work”, cranial sacral holds, and some humor from Anchorman.

Todd and Cathy discuss why it’s OK for kids to change their minds and try new things, and why it’s important for adults to do this, too. They discuss how self-awareness is essential, and how self-forgiveness and understanding are also essential because we will always be a mystery (the great paradox!). They discuss the offensive gesture during the world series, how they managed their daughter’s crying episode, Byron Katie’s “The Work”, cranial sacral holds, and some humor from Anchorman.

Cathy and Todd talk with Roksanna Taghizadeh, an immigrant who grew up in Iran, became a refugee in Germany, and eventually made it to the United States where she became an structural engineer. She shares her immigration story, explains what it’s like to live in a refugee camp, and shares why the current political environment has been surprising and emotionally challenging.

Cathy and Todd talk with Roksanna Taghizadeh, an immigrant who grew up in Iran, became a refugee in Germany, and eventually made it to the United States where she became an structural engineer. She shares her immigration story, explains what it’s like to live in a refugee camp, and shares why the current political environment has been surprising and emotionally challenging.

Cathy and Todd discuss why it’s OK to be uncomfortable, and why focusing on what works and what we are grateful creates the foundation to deal with discomfort. They reference the Good Newspaper, and explain why good news can help us speak out about the uncomfortable news. Todd shares some wisdom from Simon Sinek about why cell phones shouldn’t be the classroom or the boardroom, and why will power sometimes isn’t enough. They discuss if it’s safe for Todd to drive with his knee, why we shouldn’t answer the phone in a movie theater, and a wise observation from Martin Luther King.

Cathy and Todd discuss why it’s OK to be uncomfortable, and why focusing on what works and what we are grateful creates the foundation to deal with discomfort. They reference the Good Newspaper, and explain why good news can help us speak out about the uncomfortable news. Todd shares some wisdom from Simon Sinek about why cell phones shouldn’t be the classroom or the boardroom, and why will power sometimes isn’t enough. They discuss if it’s safe for Todd to drive with his knee, why we shouldn’t answer the phone in a movie theater, and a wise observation from Martin Luther King.

Cathy and Todd discuss the power of #metoo (a hashtag for anyone who has been sexually harassed or assaulted) and why sharing stories and listening to each other paves the way for change. They also talk about the power of words and why inclusive language is not just about being politically correct, it’s about growth and understanding. They discuss software that allows parents to see how their children are doing throughout the school day, why children hold in painful secrets, and why Cathy won’t share her water bottle.

Cathy and Todd discuss the power of #metoo (a hashtag for anyone who has been sexually harassed or assaulted) and why sharing stories and listening to each other paves the way for change. They also talk about the power of words and why inclusive language is not just about being politically correct, it’s about growth and understanding. They discuss software that allows parents to see how their children are doing throughout the school day, why children hold in painful secrets, and why Cathy won’t share her water bottle.

On their 400th episode, Cathy and Todd discuss why they started Zen Parenting, how it’s changed, and why equality, compassion, and connection motivate them to keep going. They share their favorite Tom Petty songs, discuss why difficult conversations are essential, and explain how if we work together, we will soar.

On their 400th episode, Cathy and Todd discuss why they started Zen Parenting, how it’s changed, and why equality, compassion, and connection motivate them to keep going. They share their favorite Tom Petty songs, discuss why difficult conversations are essential, and explain how if we work together, we will soar.

Cathy and Todd discuss the importance of civility when we have different opinions or viewpoints, and offer some definitions and research from Brenè Browns book, Braving the Wilderness. They also discuss the Las Vegas tragedy – how we can make the unbearable bearable, and how we can give of ourselves to help others. They share who resides in their “brain trust”, offer some wisdom from Cory Booker, and discuss why we have dehumanized in the past and why rehumanization is essential for the future.

Cathy and Todd discuss the importance of civility when we have different opinions or viewpoints, and offer some definitions and research from Brenè Browns book, Braving the Wilderness. They also discuss the Las Vegas tragedy – how we can make the unbearable bearable, and how we can give of ourselves to help others. They share who resides in their “brain trust”, offer some wisdom from Cory Booker, and discuss why we have dehumanized in the past and why rehumanization is essential for the future.

Cathy and Todd talk with Danya Rosen, Executive Director of the Chicago Peer Health Exchange, an organization that empowers young people with the knowledge, skills, and resources to make healthy decisions. They train college students to teach a skill-based health curriculum (focusing on mental health, sexual education, and overall wellness) in under-resourced high schools across the country. They aim to reduce unplanned pregnancy and substance abuse by offering knowledge, support, and access to resources. The Peer Health Exchange has had a statistically significant positive effect on sexual and mental knowledge, skills, and help-seeking behavior. They are also located in the Bay Area, Boston, Los Angeles, and New York.

Cathy and Todd talk with Danya Rosen, Executive Director of the Chicago Peer Health Exchange, an organization that empowers young people with the knowledge, skills, and resources to make healthy decisions. They train college students to teach a skill-based health curriculum (focusing on mental health, sexual education, and overall wellness) in under-resourced high schools across the country. They aim to reduce unplanned pregnancy and substance abuse by offering knowledge, support, and access to resources. The Peer Health Exchange has had a statistically significant positive effect on sexual and mental knowledge, skills, and help-seeking behavior. They are also located in the Bay Area, Boston, Los Angeles, and New York.

Cathy and Todd discuss Brenè Brown’s book, Braving the Wilderness, specifically the difference between “fitting in” and “true belonging”, and why listening and civility are our ways back to each other (this book discussion will continue next week). They also discuss a blog titled The Keeper and how it created an argument in one home, and why it’s an important discussion piece for any marriage. Todd shares a great Chicago story about how one person’s sacrifice lead to another person’s extreme act of bravery, and how we are all interconnected and modeling for each other.

Cathy and Todd discuss Brenè Brown’s book, Braving the Wilderness, specifically the difference between “fitting in” and “true belonging”, and why listening and civility are our ways back to each other (this book discussion will continue next week). They also discuss a blog titled The Keeper and how it created an argument in one home, and why it’s an important discussion piece for any marriage. Todd shares a great Chicago story about how one person’s sacrifice lead to another person’s extreme act of bravery, and how we are all interconnected and modeling for each other.

Todd and Cathy discuss Simon Sinek’s definition of success and why momentum is the key. They talk about the best predictor of whether or not we will view our lives as successful (and it has nothing to do with money). They discuss why a man can be perceived as assertive and a woman is perceived as bossy, how the 2017 Emmy Award winners made some history, and why Oreos and seeing the movie IT are not great self-care choices for Cathy.

Todd and Cathy discuss Simon Sinek’s definition of success and why momentum is the key. They talk about the best predictor of whether or not we will view our lives as successful (and it has nothing to do with money). They discuss why a man can be perceived as assertive and a woman is perceived as bossy, how the 2017 Emmy Award winners made some history, and why Oreos and seeing the movie IT are not great self-care choices for Cathy.

Cathy and Todd discuss The Smartphone Generation vs. Free Speech by Jean M. Twenge about the millennial generation (otherwise known as iGen) and why they are different. They discuss how they were raised, how they think, and why they understand emotional risk more than physical risk. They also discuss They also discuss Brene Brown’s new release, Braving the Wilderness, and how it focuses on stepping out and speaking up, and how we can answer questions with civility rather than mistrust and disdain. They talk about how we can support our kids without being permissive, how we can teach our daughters to trust themselves, and why the Jedi know how to fight hate with light.

Cathy and Todd discuss The Smartphone Generation vs. Free Speech by Jean M. Twenge about the millennial generation (otherwise known as iGen) and why they are different. They discuss how they were raised, how they think, and why they understand emotional risk more than physical risk. They also discuss They also discuss Brene Brown’s new release, Braving the Wilderness, and how it focuses on stepping out and speaking up, and how we can answer questions with civility rather than mistrust and disdain. They talk about how we can support our kids without being permissive, how we can teach our daughters to trust themselves, and why the Jedi know how to fight hate with light.

Cathy and Todd offer ways to practice and recognize self-compassion, and explain why our ego tends to argue against too much self-love (but why we don’t have to listen…). They discuss lovingkindness meditation, why it’s important to accept compliments, and how we can get to know ourselves like a friend. They also discuss Keyshawn Johnson’s decision to pull his son out of Nebraska football – was this decision too much or just right? They discuss their upcoming self-compassion class, their upcoming screening of Angst, and why it’s important for each of us to speak our truth.T

Cathy and Todd offer ways to practice and recognize self-compassion, and explain why our ego tends to argue against too much self-love (but why we don’t have to listen…). They discuss lovingkindness meditation, why it’s important to accept compliments, and how we can get to know ourselves like a friend. They also discuss Keyshawn Johnson’s decision to pull his son out of Nebraska football – was this decision too much or just right? They discuss their upcoming self-compassion class, their upcoming screening of Angst, and why it’s important for each of us to speak our truth.T

Cathy and Todd discuss anxiety, how and why it shows up, and why it’s important topic of conversation in every home. They discuss their documentary screening of Angst: Normalizing the Conversation Around Anxiety on Monday, September 11th, 7pm, at York Theater. This movie is a perfect opportunity to open an important conversation and normalize what’s been stigmatized. It’s appropriate for kids 10+, and it’s highly recommended for all parents and teens. They share the wisdom of Michael Singer from his book The Untethered Soul, and what it means to have a “voice in our head”. They also discuss Hurricane Harvey, how to give, and why we need to stay focused on hope. Click here to get tickets to the screening of Angst at York Theater on Sept 11th. T

Cathy and Todd discuss anxiety, how and why it shows up, and why it’s important topic of conversation in every home. They discuss their documentary screening of Angst: Normalizing the Conversation Around Anxiety on Monday, September 11th, 7pm, at York Theater. This movie is a perfect opportunity to open an important conversation and normalize what’s been stigmatized. It’s appropriate for kids 10+, and it’s highly recommended for all parents and teens. They share the wisdom of Michael Singer from his book The Untethered Soul, and what it means to have a “voice in our head”. They also discuss Hurricane Harvey, how to give, and why we need to stay focused on hope. Click here to get tickets to the screening of Angst at York Theater on Sept 11th. T

Todd and Cathy reveal their three speakers for the 2018 Zen Parenting Conference, and explain why each of them is a force for good. They discuss candor, wisdom, kindness, and responsibility, and offer new resources that will help each of us live with greater clarity and intention. They answer a listener questions, and also discuss their NEW+IMPROVED website! Go to zenparentingradio.com to find all the podcasts, events, books, and resources that you’ve been asking for - all in one place! And get your early-bird 2018 Zen Parenting Conference tickets, a spot in Cathy’s How to Be Brave pre-conference workshop, and become a Zen Friend to support our conference scholarship program.

Todd and Cathy reveal their three speakers for the 2018 Zen Parenting Conference, and explain why each of them is a force for good. They discuss candor, wisdom, kindness, and responsibility, and offer new resources that will help each of us live with greater clarity and intention. They answer a listener questions, and also discuss their NEW+IMPROVED website! Go to zenparentingradio.com to find all the podcasts, events, books, and resources that you’ve been asking for - all in one place! And get your early-bird 2018 Zen Parenting Conference tickets, a spot in Cathy’s How to Be Brave pre-conference workshop, and become a Zen Friend to support our conference scholarship program.

Cathy and Todd discuss fear-based thinking, what happened in Charlottesville, and how an abundance mindset can shift the way we relate to each other. They answer listener questions about a husband who doesn’t understand the challenges of busy motherhood, and how to manage, and hopefully reduce, an anxious home environment. Todd talks about his trip to New England with his daughter, and explains why this experience led to more authentic communication and connection.

Cathy and Todd discuss fear-based thinking, what happened in Charlottesville, and how an abundance mindset can shift the way we relate to each other. They answer listener questions about a husband who doesn’t understand the challenges of busy motherhood, and how to manage, and hopefully reduce, an anxious home environment. Todd talks about his trip to New England with his daughter, and explains why this experience led to more authentic communication and connection.

Cathy and Todd discuss Caroline Adams Miller’s book Getting Grit, about what grit really means, and why we need to be thoughtful about the kind of grit we are using and promoting. They share some clips from her interview with Jonathan Field’s on The Good Life Project, and explain why self-awareness, compassion, and connection are essential in becoming a force for good. They also discuss the challenges with participation trophies or awards and offer new insight into why these are only a symptom rather than the problem. They discuss why giving our kids space to find their own grit is essential, and why humility, community, and confidence are essential in keeping our goals healthy and manageable.

Cathy and Todd discuss Caroline Adams Miller’s book Getting Grit, about what grit really means, and why we need to be thoughtful about the kind of grit we are using and promoting. They share some clips from her interview with Jonathan Field’s on The Good Life Project, and explain why self-awareness, compassion, and connection are essential in becoming a force for good. They also discuss the challenges with participation trophies or awards and offer new insight into why these are only a symptom rather than the problem. They discuss why giving our kids space to find their own grit is essential, and why humility, community, and confidence are essential in keeping our goals healthy and manageable.

Cathy and Todd discuss what a hell yes feels like, and why saying no is so important. They share an interview with Oprah on the Dear Sugar podcast where she explains how she learned to say no, and why a no can be the best decision for all involved. They also share why letting go can be just as important as holding on, and what it really means to be impeccable with your word. They discuss the proposed military transgender ban, and why proximity to people different than us will decrease fear, increase compassion, and create unity.

Cathy and Todd discuss what a hell yes feels like, and why saying no is so important. They share an interview with Oprah on the Dear Sugar podcast where she explains how she learned to say no, and why a no can be the best decision for all involved. They also share why letting go can be just as important as holding on, and what it really means to be impeccable with your word. They discuss the proposed military transgender ban, and why proximity to people different than us will decrease fear, increase compassion, and create unity.

Todd and Cathy discuss why humans are like porcupines, and why it’s important to stay open and use “relational ethics”, when communicating with our loved ones. They discuss Andy Murray’s subtle equality comment after Wimbledon, they share a quote about compassion from Pema Chodron, and explain what Tim Ferriss means when he says, “Hard Choices/Easy Life”. They also discuss a bill that could affect teens who are caught sexting - teen expert Rosalind Wiseman explains, “We understand why adults don’t want young people sending these kinds of pictures but it’s dangerous and unethical for lawmakers to write and pass laws that can’t tell the difference between a sexual predator and a young person who is going through adolescence.”

Todd and Cathy discuss why humans are like porcupines, and why it’s important to stay open and use “relational ethics”, when communicating with our loved ones. They discuss Andy Murray’s subtle equality comment after Wimbledon, they share a quote about compassion from Pema Chodron, and explain what Tim Ferriss means when he says, “Hard Choices/Easy Life”. They also discuss a bill that could affect teens who are caught sexting - teen expert Rosalind Wiseman explains, “We understand why adults don’t want young people sending these kinds of pictures but it’s dangerous and unethical for lawmakers to write and pass laws that can’t tell the difference between a sexual predator and a young person who is going through adolescence.”

Todd and Cathy discuss how to have honest communication with friends and why it can be helpful to be “called out” by the people we love. They also discuss why our understanding of healing is oversimplified, and how it’s a daily action rather than a destination. They share a quote from Brad Pitt about toxic masculinity, explain the difference between shame and guilt, and discuss how marriage is handled on Friday Night Lights.

Todd and Cathy discuss how to have honest communication with friends and why it can be helpful to be “called out” by the people we love. They also discuss why our understanding of healing is oversimplified, and how it’s a daily action rather than a destination. They share a quote from Brad Pitt about toxic masculinity, explain the difference between shame and guilt, and discuss how marriage is handled on Friday Night Lights.

Cathy and Todd discuss how to embrace a challenging past by accepting it as a given rather than viewing it as a “gift” (which can sometimes feel inauthentic). This concept is taken from Sharon Salzberg’s book, Real Love: The Art of Mindful Connection, and it allows us to acknowledge our experience and move forward as a force for good. They also discuss how kids can be sensitive to clothing and why it’s important to find ways to keep them comfortable. They share why joy+sadness are a team, why trying to defend our emotional state can cause conflict, and explain why The Soupdragons I’m Free is Todd’s empowerment song.

Cathy and Todd discuss how to embrace a challenging past by accepting it as a given rather than viewing it as a “gift” (which can sometimes feel inauthentic). This concept is taken from Sharon Salzberg’s book, Real Love: The Art of Mindful Connection, and it allows us to acknowledge our experience and move forward as a force for good. They also discuss how kids can be sensitive to clothing and why it’s important to find ways to keep them comfortable. They share why joy+sadness are a team, why trying to defend our emotional state can cause conflict, and explain why The Soupdragons I’m Free is Todd’s empowerment song.

Cathy and Todd share a quote from Gutsy Girl author Caroline Paul about how we can use “micro-bravery” to handle our fear. They discuss why bravery can mean different things to men and women, and why it’s hard to differentiate between fear, excitement, and other strong feelings. They talk about ball players who get the “yips”, the movie Get Out, and explain why The Babadook represents repressed grief and anger.

Cathy and Todd share a quote from Gutsy Girl author Caroline Paul about how we can use “micro-bravery” to handle our fear. They discuss why bravery can mean different things to men and women, and why it’s hard to differentiate between fear, excitement, and other strong feelings. They talk about ball players who get the “yips”, the movie Get Out, and explain why The Babadook represents repressed grief and anger.

Todd and Cathy discuss gender inequality and why Todd gets frustrated talking to men about this issue. They discuss why it’s difficult to understand inequality, how we can be better listeners, and why the impact can negatively affect women and men. They reference an article from the New York Times titled Talking to Boys the Way We Talk to Girls by Andrew Reiner and discuss how we can make changes in our own home that will impact the world. They answer a listener question about a challenging four-year-old, talk about their vacation and the Backstreet Boys, and share some movie clips.

Todd and Cathy discuss gender inequality and why Todd gets frustrated talking to men about this issue. They discuss why it’s difficult to understand inequality, how we can be better listeners, and why the impact can negatively affect women and men. They reference an article from the New York Times titled Talking to Boys the Way We Talk to Girls by Andrew Reiner and discuss how we can make changes in our own home that will impact the world. They answer a listener question about a challenging four-year-old, talk about their vacation and the Backstreet Boys, and share some movie clips.

Cathy and Todd discuss Mary Oliver’s poem Wild Geese, specifically this line – you only have to let the soft animal of your body love what it loves. They discuss that the things we love may not be cool or trendy, but sometimes embracing this uncoolness is the first step toward creating a more joyful home. They discuss Hamilton, the Backstreet Boys, and the most important scene from Revenge of the Nerds.

Cathy and Todd discuss Mary Oliver’s poem Wild Geese, specifically this line – you only have to let the soft animal of your body love what it loves. They discuss that the things we love may not be cool or trendy, but sometimes embracing this uncoolness is the first step toward creating a more joyful home. They discuss Hamilton, the Backstreet Boys, and the most important scene from Revenge of the Nerds.

Todd and Cathy discuss how money contributes to happiness and how our relationship with money affects our feelings of success. They reference an episode of The Good Life Project called The Truth About Money and Happiness and discuss documentaries such as Happy, Born Rich, and the 1%. They also discuss how to talk with our girls about body image and why it’s important to find a new and true definition of beauty.

Todd and Cathy discuss how money contributes to happiness and how our relationship with money affects our feelings of success. They reference an episode of The Good Life Project called The Truth About Money and Happiness and discuss documentaries such as Happy, Born Rich, and the 1%. They also discuss how to talk with our girls about body image and why it’s important to find a new and true definition of beauty.

Cathy’s dad recently passed away so Cathy and Todd share how he lived and what he taught them. Most importantly why culture literacy leads to a bigger heart and mind, why willingness is the key to a deep and meaningful life, and why we are all simply “walking each other home”.

Cathy’s dad recently passed away so Cathy and Todd share how he lived and what he taught them. Most importantly why culture literacy leads to a bigger heart and mind, why willingness is the key to a deep and meaningful life, and why we are all simply “walking each other home”.

Cathy and Todd discuss how to approach who’s busier in a partnership, and how to talk to a friend who thinks she’s busier than you. They discuss why “turning toward” is the key to a long-lasting marriage, and share some tips from author and relationship expert Esther Perel.

Cathy and Todd discuss how to approach who’s busier in a partnership, and how to talk to a friend who thinks she’s busier than you. They discuss why “turning toward” is the key to a long-lasting marriage, and share some tips from author and relationship expert Esther Perel.

Todd and Cathy discuss why “figuring out” our partner will cause frustration, but why staying present with every new experience will create intimacy. They use a post from fellow coach Jayson Gaddis They discuss why it’s important to ride the waves with your partner rather than trying to control their emotional expression, and why unpredictability can be just as connecting as predictability. They share a recent miscommunication, explain why labeling family members is detrimental, and practice saying toy boat really fast without messing up.

Todd and Cathy discuss why “figuring out” our partner will cause frustration, but why staying present with every new experience will create intimacy. They use a post from fellow coach Jayson Gaddis They discuss why it’s important to ride the waves with your partner rather than trying to control their emotional expression, and why unpredictability can be just as connecting as predictability. They share a recent miscommunication, explain why labeling family members is detrimental, and practice saying toy boat really fast without messing up.

Cathy and Todd discuss why freeing ourselves from needing to be right can shift the dynamics of a conversation, and ultimately, a relationship. They share a clip of Glenn Beck from the On Being Podcast where he explains why using fear divides, and why it’s time to come together and listen. They also share an interview from Tim Ferriss’ podcast about why treating all people with dignity is essential, and why we want all people to be just like us. This episode will free your mind (and as En Vogue says), and the rest will follow…

Cathy and Todd discuss why freeing ourselves from needing to be right can shift the dynamics of a conversation, and ultimately, a relationship. They share a clip of Glenn Beck from the On Being Podcast where he explains why using fear divides, and why it’s time to come together and listen. They also share an interview from Tim Ferriss’ podcast about why treating all people with dignity is essential, and why we want all people to be just like us. This episode will free your mind (and as En Vogue says), and the rest will follow…

Cathy and Todd talk with Jodi Bondi Norgaard, founder of Dream Big Toy Company and the creator of the award-winning Go! Go! Sports Girls line of dolls and books for girls encouraging healthy and active play over fashion and body image. Jodi is a keynote speaker, entrepreneur, activist, consultant, and founding member of The Brave Girl Alliance, a think tank of girl empowerment experts.

Cathy and Todd talk with Jodi Bondi Norgaard, founder of Dream Big Toy Company and the creator of the award-winning Go! Go! Sports Girls line of dolls and books for girls encouraging healthy and active play over fashion and body image. Jodi is a keynote speaker, entrepreneur, activist, consultant, and founding member of The Brave Girl Alliance, a think tank of girl empowerment experts.

Todd and Cathy discuss why teens and adults need buttons (or release valves) to manage their anxiety. They may rarely (if ever) use supports that are offered, but just knowing they are there decreases feelings of anxiousness. They talk about what it means to be “busy” and why busyness requires a sense of self-awareness and personal responsibility. They share a story about Canadians helping out with the National Anthem, play some of Kristin Wiig’s best SNL characters, and explain why allowing someone else to explain something can feel freeing and empowering.

Todd and Cathy discuss why teens and adults need buttons (or release valves) to manage their anxiety. They may rarely (if ever) use supports that are offered, but just knowing they are there decreases feelings of anxiousness. They talk about what it means to be “busy” and why busyness requires a sense of self-awareness and personal responsibility. They share a story about Canadians helping out with the National Anthem, play some of Kristin Wiig’s best SNL characters, and explain why allowing someone else to explain something can feel freeing and empowering.

Todd and Cathy talk about how we can “comfortably hold our paradoxes”, and use examples from Danielle LaPorte to explain why this acceptance leads to wisdom. They discuss how to share information about your kids without feeling like you’re listing a resume, why allowing kids to share their viewpoint results in less and anger and more connection, and why 13 Reasons Why has become the most talked about show for teens.

Todd and Cathy talk about how we can “comfortably hold our paradoxes”, and use examples from Danielle LaPorte to explain why this acceptance leads to wisdom. They discuss how to share information about your kids without feeling like you’re listing a resume, why allowing kids to share their viewpoint results in less and anger and more connection, and why 13 Reasons Why has become the most talked about show for teens.

Todd and Cathy talk with Charlie Rogers, 17, about what it means to be a vegan and a steward of the environment. They talk climate change, carbon footprints, minimalism, education, and why it’s important to make choices that align with our souls - in our teens, and as parents.

Todd and Cathy talk with Charlie Rogers, 17, about what it means to be a vegan and a steward of the environment. They talk climate change, carbon footprints, minimalism, education, and why it’s important to make choices that align with our souls - in our teens, and as parents.

Cathy and Todd talk with Dr. Alexandra Solomon, author of Loving Bravely: 20 Lessons of Self-Discovery to Help You Get the Love You Want. They discuss why the past shows up in love relationships, the challenges of hookup culture, and how to listen with the “third ear”. They also discuss why self-awareness is essential, and why offering compassion to yourself and your partner are keys to connection. If you are in a marriage or partnership, or if you are interested in having a healthy partnership, this is a must-listen episode.

Cathy and Todd talk with Dr. Alexandra Solomon, author of Loving Bravely: 20 Lessons of Self-Discovery to Help You Get the Love You Want. They discuss why the past shows up in love relationships, the challenges of hookup culture, and how to listen with the “third ear”. They also discuss why self-awareness is essential, and why offering compassion to yourself and your partner are keys to connection. If you are in a marriage or partnership, or if you are interested in having a healthy partnership, this is a must-listen episode.

Cathy and Todd discuss why it’s important to speak up in a relationship instead of “kick the can down the road”. They discuss why intimacy is created when a couple is willing to communicate about what matters, and how both sexes have been conditioned to not share their true feelings. They talk about internalized misogyny, why our beliefs and actions are not always congruent, and share a clip from Gone Girl about the myth of the “cool girl”. Todd shares some “quick takes”, they play a movie game, and they sing songs by Pat Benatar and Run DMC.

Cathy and Todd discuss why it’s important to speak up in a relationship instead of “kick the can down the road”. They discuss why intimacy is created when a couple is willing to communicate about what matters, and how both sexes have been conditioned to not share their true feelings. They talk about internalized misogyny, why our beliefs and actions are not always congruent, and share a clip from Gone Girl about the myth of the “cool girl”. Todd shares some “quick takes”, they play a movie game, and they sing songs by Pat Benatar and Run DMC.

Cathy and Todd discuss internal vs external peace, and why internal peace is the key to contentment. They talk about “good enough parenting” and share why Daniel Goleman, author of Emotional Intelligence, believes that being good enough, is good enough. They offer an opportunity to join their monthly Zen Talks, explain their 10,000 campaign goal, and talk more about being a force for good and focusing on what matters.

Cathy and Todd discuss internal vs external peace, and why internal peace is the key to contentment. They talk about “good enough parenting” and share why Daniel Goleman, author of Emotional Intelligence, believes that being good enough, is good enough. They offer an opportunity to join their monthly Zen Talks, explain their 10,000 campaign goal, and talk more about being a force for good and focusing on what matters.

Todd and Cathy discuss the definition of zen, why acceptance keeps us from suffering, and how to let go when things don’t seem to be going our way. They explain what it means to be “sex positive” and explain why Teen Vogue and Rookie Magazine offer smart and timely journalism for teens. They discuss why regret is “unskillful”, share perspective from This American Life and 10% Happier with Dan Harris, and play movie quotes that start with B.

Todd and Cathy discuss the definition of zen, why acceptance keeps us from suffering, and how to let go when things don’t seem to be going our way. They explain what it means to be “sex positive” and explain why Teen Vogue and Rookie Magazine offer smart and timely journalism for teens. They discuss why regret is “unskillful”, share perspective from This American Life and 10% Happier with Dan Harris, and play movie quotes that start with B.

Todd and Cathy discuss the definition of zen, why acceptance keeps us from suffering, and how to let go when things don’t seem to be going our way. They explain what it means to be “sex positive” and explain why Teen Vogue and Rookie Magazine offer smart and timely journalism for teens. They discuss why regret is “unskillful”, share perspective from This American Life and 10% Happier with Dan Harris, and play movie quotes that start with B.

Todd and Cathy discuss the definition of zen, why acceptance keeps us from suffering, and how to let go when things don’t seem to be going our way. They explain what it means to be “sex positive” and explain why Teen Vogue and Rookie Magazine offer smart and timely journalism for teens. They discuss why regret is “unskillful”, share perspective from This American Life and 10% Happier with Dan Harris, and play movie quotes that start with B.

Todd and Cathy discuss the importance of balancing studentship and maintaining your own perspective. Teachers are necessary and helpful in guiding us through life, but it’s also important to ground ourselves in our own identity. They also discuss why it’s vital to focus on women’s equality and awareness around women’s rights (or lack of rights). Gender equality for men is just as vital, but they emphasize bringing attention to the disparity. They answer a listener question about managing the tantrum of his son, they discuss Pear Jam’s Elderly woman behind the counter in a small town, and Todd shares some of his favorite movie quotes.

Todd and Cathy discuss the importance of balancing studentship and maintaining your own perspective. Teachers are necessary and helpful in guiding us through life, but it’s also important to ground ourselves in our own identity. They also discuss why it’s vital to focus on women’s equality and awareness around women’s rights (or lack of rights). Gender equality for men is just as vital, but they emphasize bringing attention to the disparity. They answer a listener question about managing the tantrum of his son, they discuss Pear Jam’s Elderly woman behind the counter in a small town, and Todd shares some of his favorite movie quotes.

Cathy and Todd discuss the difference between telling your kid to buck up and offering them consolation, and why it’s not one or the other, it’s both. They also explain why it’s importance to answer your kids questions and not assume that they already know what to do. They talk about the new State Farm commercial titled Following and Julia, the new character on Sesame Street. They discuss Beauty and the Beast, Pretty in Pink, chess, and why Todd wants to play catch his daughters.

Cathy and Todd discuss the difference between telling your kid to buck up and offering them consolation, and why it’s not one or the other, it’s both. They also explain why it’s importance to answer your kids questions and not assume that they already know what to do. They talk about the new State Farm commercial titled Following and Julia, the new character on Sesame Street. They discuss Beauty and the Beast, Pretty in Pink, chess, and why Todd wants to play catch his daughters.

Cathy and Todd discuss Megan Phelps Roper’s TED talk titled, "I grew up in the Westboro Baptist Church, here’s why I left”. She explains how rational and considerate conversation allowed her to see things differently, and offers four healthy ways to communicate when we disagree or feel polarized. They also discuss Rob Bell’s most recent podcast about “the lie of redemptive violence”, and why emotional leadership begins by listening instead of demanding. They share the wisdom of Stephen Covey, why being calm creates change, and why George Costanza ordered chicken salad instead of tuna.

Cathy and Todd discuss Megan Phelps Roper’s TED talk titled, "I grew up in the Westboro Baptist Church, here’s why I left”. She explains how rational and considerate conversation allowed her to see things differently, and offers four healthy ways to communicate when we disagree or feel polarized. They also discuss Rob Bell’s most recent podcast about “the lie of redemptive violence”, and why emotional leadership begins by listening instead of demanding. They share the wisdom of Stephen Covey, why being calm creates change, and why George Costanza ordered chicken salad instead of tuna.

Todd and Cathy discuss the definition of 10,000 Joys and 10,000 Sorrows, and explain why acceptance of both leads to a more balanced and calm life. They discuss Mark Nepo’s interpretation of what it means to “unlearn what we have unlearned”, and why life is a constant tension between acquiring new information and letting go of what we don’t need. They also talk about Stranger Things, why rabbits and trees are Zen, and why pictures can be just as important as words.

Todd and Cathy discuss the definition of 10,000 Joys and 10,000 Sorrows, and explain why acceptance of both leads to a more balanced and calm life. They discuss Mark Nepo’s interpretation of what it means to “unlearn what we have unlearned”, and why life is a constant tension between acquiring new information and letting go of what we don’t need. They also talk about Stranger Things, why rabbits and trees are Zen, and why pictures can be just as important as words.

Cathy and Todd share the highlights from their conference, including the messages of their speakers, Rob Bell, Rosalind Wiseman, and Ali Smith. They process their Friday night talk, specifically focusing on we are here, bring the light, love louder, if not you, then who?, just do right, generate peace, create meaning, and let’s take care of each other. They also share an important message from Maya Angelou at the very end of the show.

Cathy and Todd share the highlights from their conference, including the messages of their speakers, Rob Bell, Rosalind Wiseman, and Ali Smith. They process their Friday night talk, specifically focusing on we are here, bring the light, love louder, if not you, then who?, just do right, generate peace, create meaning, and let’s take care of each other. They also share an important message from Maya Angelou at the very end of the show.

Todd and Cathy discuss the top ten things that adults usually regret – why they regret them, and how to view these things differently. They answer two listener questions – one about lying to the school about vacations, and the other about how to support an emotional partner. They share Phish music, My Blue Heaven quotes, and discuss this weekend’s conference. Click here to get your ticket, it’s your last chance!

Todd and Cathy discuss the top ten things that adults usually regret – why they regret them, and how to view these things differently. They answer two listener questions – one about lying to the school about vacations, and the other about how to support an emotional partner. They share Phish music, My Blue Heaven quotes, and discuss this weekend’s conference. Click here to get your ticket, it’s your last chance!

Todd and Cathy discuss Valentine’s Day and how we can find ways to love ourselves and others every day. They also discuss the importance of understanding another’s perspective, and how we can incorporate empathy into our everyday parenting. They talk about Adele and Beyonce, Anchorman and A League of their Own, and share the wisdom of Atticus Finch.

Todd and Cathy discuss Valentine’s Day and how we can find ways to love ourselves and others every day. They also discuss the importance of understanding another’s perspective, and how we can incorporate empathy into our everyday parenting. They talk about Adele and Beyonce, Anchorman and A League of their Own, and share the wisdom of Atticus Finch.

Cathy and Todd discuss five truths, as explained by Neale Donald Walsh in his book Conversations with God, Vol 2. They also discuss the variability of feelings, how to determine what you are feeling, and why shame can get in the way of our true emotions. They process the difference between wounds and wholeness and why responding is better than reacting.

Cathy and Todd discuss five truths, as explained by Neale Donald Walsh in his book Conversations with God, Vol 2. They also discuss the variability of feelings, how to determine what you are feeling, and why shame can get in the way of our true emotions. They process the difference between wounds and wholeness and why responding is better than reacting.

Cathy and Todd share tens ways we can deal with the challenges our world is facing. Specifically focusing on how we can support ourselves and the ones we love, and how we can help and give back to others. They talk about daily action, a documentary that will inspire you, and why taking care of nature will create more peace. The Zen Parenting Conference is only a few weeks away!

Cathy and Todd share tens ways we can deal with the challenges our world is facing. Specifically focusing on how we can support ourselves and the ones we love, and how we can help and give back to others. They talk about daily action, a documentary that will inspire you, and why taking care of nature will create more peace. The Zen Parenting Conference is only a few weeks away!

Cathy and Todd talk about the Chicago Women’s March – why it happened, who was there, and what comes next. They also discuss self-awareness and the “4 ways of being in the world” as described by the Conscious Leadership Group. They talk REM, unification, and share an anthem by MILCK called “I can’t keep quiet.”

Cathy and Todd talk about the Chicago Women’s March – why it happened, who was there, and what comes next. They also discuss self-awareness and the “4 ways of being in the world” as described by the Conscious Leadership Group. They talk REM, unification, and share an anthem by MILCK called “I can’t keep quiet.”

Cathy and Todd discuss The Five Essential Questions in Life, proposed by Dean James Ryan during a Harvard Graduate School of Education commencement speech. They also discuss the power of words and how word choice can empower or drain us. They talk about Dennis Miller, Hidden Figures, and answer a listener question about how marital separation effects kids.

Cathy and Todd discuss The Five Essential Questions in Life, proposed by Dean James Ryan during a Harvard Graduate School of Education commencement speech. They also discuss the power of words and how word choice can empower or drain us. They talk about Dennis Miller, Hidden Figures, and answer a listener question about how marital separation effects kids.

Cathy and Todd talk with Annmarie Chereso, founder of Bring It! Home, an organization that offers programs to increase wellbeing and conscious leadership in the home and school. They talk mindfulness, parenting, partnership, and share why self-awareness and connection are the keys to deeper contentment. Bring It! Home is based in Chicago and is a Zen Parenting Conference sponsor.

Cathy and Todd talk with Annmarie Chereso, founder of Bring It! Home, an organization that offers programs to increase wellbeing and conscious leadership in the home and school. They talk mindfulness, parenting, partnership, and share why self-awareness and connection are the keys to deeper contentment. Bring It! Home is based in Chicago and is a Zen Parenting Conference sponsor.

Cathy and Todd discuss how experiences can “rearrange” us, causing us to open our heart wider, or close ourselves tighter. They process how relationships are a back and forth, and how in the words of Mark Nepo, we “take turns being cloudy and clear”. They share Deep Thoughts by Jack Handey, wise words about compassion from George Lucas, and why certainty is elusive.

Cathy and Todd discuss how experiences can “rearrange” us, causing us to open our heart wider, or close ourselves tighter. They process how relationships are a back and forth, and how in the words of Mark Nepo, we “take turns being cloudy and clear”. They share Deep Thoughts by Jack Handey, wise words about compassion from George Lucas, and why certainty is elusive.

Cathy and Todd talk with Susan McConnell from Let It Be Us about foster care in Illinois and throughout the country. They also talk with Kyle Osterhues and his mom Carolyne about his experience in foster care and their experience with adoption. This touching show sheds light on the importance and impact of foster care, and how so many great kids are waiting for their forever family.

Cathy and Todd talk with Susan McConnell from Let It Be Us about foster care in Illinois and throughout the country. They also talk with Kyle Osterhues and his mom Carolyne about his experience in foster care and their experience with adoption. This touching show sheds light on the importance and impact of foster care, and how so many great kids are waiting for their forever family.

Cathy and Todd discuss the importance of listening to others and being open to differing perspectives. They share quotes such as Polish your mind with the minds of others and Be an expert who is interested in everything, and discuss why it’s important to not make our individual story everybody else’s story. They talk about Todd’s “man cold”, discuss the Newtown Documentary they are screening on 1/18, and contemplate this quote from Mark Nepo - “just because you feel broken, doesn’t mean the world is broken.” They introduce their new partner Healthy Habits Healthy Moms

Cathy and Todd discuss the importance of listening to others and being open to differing perspectives. They share quotes such as Polish your mind with the minds of others and Be an expert who is interested in everything, and discuss why it’s important to not make our individual story everybody else’s story. They talk about Todd’s “man cold”, discuss the Newtown Documentary they are screening on 1/18, and contemplate this quote from Mark Nepo - “just because you feel broken, doesn’t mean the world is broken.” They introduce their new partner Healthy Habits Healthy Moms

Todd and Cathy share wisdom from Wayne Dyer and Tony Robbins about feeling good and why it increases our ability to parent well. They also discuss Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls and why this book prompted an important discussion. They talk about George Michael, different types of fear, and why we need to know what we are FOR rather than against.

Todd and Cathy share wisdom from Wayne Dyer and Tony Robbins about feeling good and why it increases our ability to parent well. They also discuss Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls and why this book prompted an important discussion. They talk about George Michael, different types of fear, and why we need to know what we are FOR rather than against.

Cathy and Todd process why paradox allows us to become more self-aware and open-minded. They also discuss why it’s important to be an “emotional leader” and find meaning in our decisions. They share wisdom from Growing Pain’s Jason Seaver, a great line from Don Henley, and why Madonna and the elderly woman behind the counter in a small town are similar.

Cathy and Todd process why paradox allows us to become more self-aware and open-minded. They also discuss why it’s important to be an “emotional leader” and find meaning in our decisions. They share wisdom from Growing Pain’s Jason Seaver, a great line from Don Henley, and why Madonna and the elderly woman behind the counter in a small town are similar.

Cathy and Todd discuss why kindness is empowering and why practicing kindness makes you healthier and much less stressed. They also discuss why self-awareness is essential in monitoring our own reactivity, and why being mindful is the first step toward choosing kindness. They share a clip from an interview with Life-Vest Inside’s Orly Wahba on The Good Life Project podcast. She explains how kindness offers us the tools to create change, and how we can transform inspiration into action.

Cathy and Todd discuss why kindness is empowering and why practicing kindness makes you healthier and much less stressed. They also discuss why self-awareness is essential in monitoring our own reactivity, and why being mindful is the first step toward choosing kindness. They share a clip from an interview with Life-Vest Inside’s Orly Wahba on The Good Life Project podcast. She explains how kindness offers us the tools to create change, and how we can transform inspiration into action.

Taking care of our parents: A discussion with Deborah Shouse, author of Connecting in the Land of Dementia Todd and Cathy talk with Deborah Shouse and her brother Dan about what it means to be a “care partner” for parents or loved ones with dementia. They offer how we can bring greater understanding and hope to an undeniably challenging time. They share the power of being present, why appreciation and going with the flow are essential, and how creativity and music can offer a brand new perspective.

Taking care of our parents: A discussion with Deborah Shouse, author of Connecting in the Land of Dementia Todd and Cathy talk with Deborah Shouse and her brother Dan about what it means to be a “care partner” for parents or loved ones with dementia. They offer how we can bring greater understanding and hope to an undeniably challenging time. They share the power of being present, why appreciation and going with the flow are essential, and how creativity and music can offer a brand new perspective.

Todd and Cathy discuss fake news and where to find trustworthy information (as explained on Planet Money). They also discuss lessons from former NBA player Chris Herren, and why this coach thinks society is hurting kids by giving them all trophies. They distinguish between Stephen Covey’s circle of concern and circle of influence, and explain why our willingness to do good creates more good.

Todd and Cathy discuss fake news and where to find trustworthy information (as explained on Planet Money). They also discuss lessons from former NBA player Chris Herren, and why this coach thinks society is hurting kids by giving them all trophies. They distinguish between Stephen Covey’s circle of concern and circle of influence, and explain why our willingness to do good creates more good.

There are so many questions about relationships, sexual intimacy, consent, bystander intervention and supporting survivors, it can be feel overwhelming. Confusion is widespread in schools, college campuses, and the military, and as parents it can be difficult to approach these conversations with our own kids. Mike Domitrz from the Date Safe Project offers a refreshing perspective on sexuality, respect, consent, and why it’s all about communication and caring for each other as human beings.

There are so many questions about relationships, sexual intimacy, consent, bystander intervention and supporting survivors, it can be feel overwhelming. Confusion is widespread in schools, college campuses, and the military, and as parents it can be difficult to approach these conversations with our own kids. Mike Domitrz from the Date Safe Project offers a refreshing perspective on sexuality, respect, consent, and why it’s all about communication and caring for each other as human beings.

[powerpress] Cathy reads ten hints from her grandmother’s notebook, a “here and now” list (what we would call mindfulness) that her grandmother transcribed in the 70’s. Cathy and Todd discuss the message of It’s a Wonderful Life, why John Hughes spoke for kids and teens, and why hope is such a valuable thing.

[powerpress] Cathy reads ten hints from her grandmother’s notebook, a “here and now” list (what we would call mindfulness) that her grandmother transcribed in the 70’s. Cathy and Todd discuss the message of It’s a Wonderful Life, why John Hughes spoke for kids and teens, and why hope is such a valuable thing.

Todd and Cathy welcome back Dr. John Duffy and his wife Julie to discuss why so many people are dealing with undue anxiety. They process why it’s difficult to discuss, where it’s coming from, and why we need to talk to our kids about it. They discuss Dr. Duffy’s new podcast called Undue Anxiety, Bruce Springsteen, and why communication and connection are the keys to feeling less alone.

Todd and Cathy welcome back Dr. John Duffy and his wife Julie to discuss why so many people are dealing with undue anxiety. They process why it’s difficult to discuss, where it’s coming from, and why we need to talk to our kids about it. They discuss Dr. Duffy’s new podcast called Undue Anxiety, Bruce Springsteen, and why communication and connection are the keys to feeling less alone.

Cathy and Todd discuss why “some things in life cannot be fixed, they can only be carried”, a quote taken from Megan Devine, therapist and grief teacher. She shares that most of what passes for grief support is not very useful, and that humans have the capacity to handle feelings and the feelings of others with compassion and understanding. Not by blaming, judging, or compartmentalizing, but by practicing presence, honesty, and the ability to show up and accept what is. They share clips from The Good Life Project, a podcast hosted by Jonathan Fields.

Cathy and Todd discuss why “some things in life cannot be fixed, they can only be carried”, a quote taken from Megan Devine, therapist and grief teacher. She shares that most of what passes for grief support is not very useful, and that humans have the capacity to handle feelings and the feelings of others with compassion and understanding. Not by blaming, judging, or compartmentalizing, but by practicing presence, honesty, and the ability to show up and accept what is. They share clips from The Good Life Project, a podcast hosted by Jonathan Fields.

We talk with Alexa James, Executive Director of the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI), Chicago. She explains the importance of sharing our stories to de-stigmatize mental health, and how language and perspective can shift our thinking. We discuss the myths and challenges around mental health for adults and children, and how we can shift our focus to care, recovery, and hope. NAMI Chicago’s mission is to provide hope and improve the quality of life for those whose lives are affected by mental illness, providing information and referrals, education, support, advocacy, and active community outreach.

We talk with Alexa James, Executive Director of the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI), Chicago. She explains the importance of sharing our stories to de-stigmatize mental health, and how language and perspective can shift our thinking. We discuss the myths and challenges around mental health for adults and children, and how we can shift our focus to care, recovery, and hope. NAMI Chicago’s mission is to provide hope and improve the quality of life for those whose lives are affected by mental illness, providing information and referrals, education, support, advocacy, and active community outreach.

Cathy and Todd explore how art, creativity, and imagination have the power to create change (highlighting Cathy’s blog about The Beatles bringing the country together). They also discuss the difference between pro and against and why focusing on what you DO want (rather than what you don’t) leads to a desired outcome. They offer steps to stay focused on what you desire, answer a listener question about an emotional toddler, and explain why Sammy’s Van Halen songs are more meaningful than Dave’s.

Cathy and Todd explore how art, creativity, and imagination have the power to create change (highlighting Cathy’s blog about The Beatles bringing the country together). They also discuss the difference between pro and against and why focusing on what you DO want (rather than what you don’t) leads to a desired outcome. They offer steps to stay focused on what you desire, answer a listener question about an emotional toddler, and explain why Sammy’s Van Halen songs are more meaningful than Dave’s.

Cathy and Todd process why the election felt shocking and how we can take care of ourselves. They discuss how nature always find a way, how we can organize in our homes and in our communities to create change, and how we can embrace our value and use our power for good. They talk about how we can be better listeners to those who think differently, how we can practice empathy and find commonality, and how we can allow this wake up call to keep us awake and engaged in our lives. They share grief, fear, hope, serenity, optimism, and some wise words from Andy Dufresne.

Cathy and Todd process why the election felt shocking and how we can take care of ourselves. They discuss how nature always find a way, how we can organize in our homes and in our communities to create change, and how we can embrace our value and use our power for good. They talk about how we can be better listeners to those who think differently, how we can practice empathy and find commonality, and how we can allow this wake up call to keep us awake and engaged in our lives. They share grief, fear, hope, serenity, optimism, and some wise words from Andy Dufresne.

Cathy and Todd talk about how living in the black and white keeps us from listening to each other, but if we live in the grey, we remain open, curious, and empathetic. They talk politics, parenting, Anne Lamott, Dave Matthews, poetry, and the most effective way to hold space for each other.

Cathy and Todd talk about how living in the black and white keeps us from listening to each other, but if we live in the grey, we remain open, curious, and empathetic. They talk politics, parenting, Anne Lamott, Dave Matthews, poetry, and the most effective way to hold space for each other.

Todd and Cathy talk CUBS, connection, emotions, and history. They also talk Bull Durham, City Slickers, and Field of Dreams. Enjoy the joy Chicago, we love you.

Todd and Cathy talk CUBS, connection, emotions, and history. They also talk Bull Durham, City Slickers, and Field of Dreams. Enjoy the joy Chicago, we love you.

The following is the second half of a 2 part interview we did with our friends Doug and Susan McConnell.  Doug is a marathon swimmer.  If you haven’t heard it yet, I recommend you go back and listen to podcast #337.  We left off with Doug and his team led by Susan who just swam the English Channel.  Doug now turns to Hawaii's Ka'iwi Channel which has only been completed by 35 swimmers.  The swim itself is 32+ miles and started on the west end of the almost deserted Island of Molokai.  Things do not go as planned as Doug & Susan explains. To learn more about the MCconnell’s effort to raise awareness about ALS, please visit http://www.alongswim.com/ Upcoming Events The Tribe Men's Adventure Retreat Shoot Todd an email @ comments@zenparentingradio.com for more information Other Resources Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn won the National Indie Excellence Award!Go here to order your book. Click the following links to purchase Cathy’s books The Self-Aware Parent Part 1 & and Part 2   Tree of Life Chiropractic Care have some interesting workshops planned. If you shop Amazon by going through our website first (there is an amazon link on the bottom right hand of our home page), a portion of your sale will help fund future Zen Parenting programming. How important is a good smile?  Just ask our new partner John J Kelly DDS.  They are located on the northwest side of Chicago and will meet all of your family’s dental needs. Painting or remodeling?  Don’t forget about our parnter Avid Co. Looking for a Vitamix blender?  Don’t forget to use our coupon code 06-007296 for free shipping.         [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

The following is the second half of a 2 part interview we did with our friends Doug and Susan McConnell.  Doug is a marathon swimmer.  If you haven’t heard it yet, I recommend you go back and listen to podcast #337.  We left off with Doug and his team led by Susan who just swam the English Channel.  Doug now turns to Hawaii's Ka'iwi Channel which has only been completed by 35 swimmers.  The swim itself is 32+ miles and started on the west end of the almost deserted Island of Molokai.  Things do not go as planned as Doug & Susan explains. To learn more about the MCconnell’s effort to raise awareness about ALS, please visit http://www.alongswim.com/ Upcoming Events The Tribe Men's Adventure Retreat Shoot Todd an email @ comments@zenparentingradio.com for more information Other Resources Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn won the National Indie Excellence Award!Go here to order your book. Click the following links to purchase Cathy’s books The Self-Aware Parent Part 1 & and Part 2   Tree of Life Chiropractic Care have some interesting workshops planned. If you shop Amazon by going through our website first (there is an amazon link on the bottom right hand of our home page), a portion of your sale will help fund future Zen Parenting programming. How important is a good smile?  Just ask our new partner John J Kelly DDS.  They are located on the northwest side of Chicago and will meet all of your family’s dental needs. Painting or remodeling?  Don’t forget about our parnter Avid Co. Looking for a Vitamix blender?  Don’t forget to use our coupon code 06-007296 for free shipping.         [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

There are 7 billion people walking the earth right now. There have been 5,000 people who have successfully summited Mount Everest. Just over 1600 human beings have swam the English channel- Today’s guests are Doug and Susan McConnell. Doug is only the 48th person over the age of 50 to successfully swim the English Channel. But he could not have done it without his team led by his wife Susan. In this two part interview- Doug shares with us how the idea came up as a gag over a few glasses of wine to a commitment that changed the direction of his life. He tells us about the obstacles namely sharks, hypothermia and how he navigated past each one of them and he sets the record straight of the old wives tale of whether or not it helps to pee on a jelly fish stings. To learn more about the MCconnell’s effort to raise awareness about ALS, please visit http://www.alongswim.com/

There are 7 billion people walking the earth right now. There have been 5,000 people who have successfully summited Mount Everest. Just over 1600 human beings have swam the English channel- Today’s guests are Doug and Susan McConnell. Doug is only the 48th person over the age of 50 to successfully swim the English Channel. But he could not have done it without his team led by his wife Susan. In this two part interview- Doug shares with us how the idea came up as a gag over a few glasses of wine to a commitment that changed the direction of his life. He tells us about the obstacles namely sharks, hypothermia and how he navigated past each one of them and he sets the record straight of the old wives tale of whether or not it helps to pee on a jelly fish stings. To learn more about the MCconnell’s effort to raise awareness about ALS, please visit http://www.alongswim.com/

Cathy and Todd discuss the book On Living by Hospice Chaplain Kerry Egan, and focus in on the three things we can do with pain: accept it, be kind to it, and let it be kind to you. They also share three great takeaways from Dr. Shefali’s Evolve Conference, process why negotiating with our kids is not always the best answer, and share some wisdom from Austin Powers. Upcoming Events MON, SEP 26 AT 7:00 PM, ELMHURST, IL Zen Parenting Presents Screenagers Click here for tickets By: Zen Parenting Radio Trailer- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQx2X0BXgZg New Warrior Training Adventure- October 28th-October 30th www.getyourweekend.com The Tribe Men's Adventure Retreat Shoot Todd an email @ comments@zenparentingradio.com for more information Other Resources Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn won the National Indie Excellence Award!Go here to order your book. Click the following links to purchase Cathy’s books The Self-Aware Parent Part 1 & and Part 2   Tree of Life Chiropractic Care have some interesting workshops planned. If you shop Amazon by going through our website first (there is an amazon link on the bottom right hand of our home page), a portion of your sale will help fund future Zen Parenting programming. How important is a good smile?  Just ask our new partner John J Kelly DDS.  They are located on the northwest side of Chicago and will meet all of your family’s dental needs. Painting or remodeling?  Don’t forget about our parnter Avid Co. Looking for a Vitamix blender?  Don’t forget to use our coupon code 06-007296 for free shipping.         [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

Cathy and Todd discuss the book On Living by Hospice Chaplain Kerry Egan, and focus in on the three things we can do with pain: accept it, be kind to it, and let it be kind to you. They also share three great takeaways from Dr. Shefali’s Evolve Conference, process why negotiating with our kids is not always the best answer, and share some wisdom from Austin Powers. Upcoming Events MON, SEP 26 AT 7:00 PM, ELMHURST, IL Zen Parenting Presents Screenagers Click here for tickets By: Zen Parenting Radio Trailer- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQx2X0BXgZg New Warrior Training Adventure- October 28th-October 30th www.getyourweekend.com The Tribe Men's Adventure Retreat Shoot Todd an email @ comments@zenparentingradio.com for more information Other Resources Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn won the National Indie Excellence Award!Go here to order your book. Click the following links to purchase Cathy’s books The Self-Aware Parent Part 1 & and Part 2   Tree of Life Chiropractic Care have some interesting workshops planned. If you shop Amazon by going through our website first (there is an amazon link on the bottom right hand of our home page), a portion of your sale will help fund future Zen Parenting programming. How important is a good smile?  Just ask our new partner John J Kelly DDS.  They are located on the northwest side of Chicago and will meet all of your family’s dental needs. Painting or remodeling?  Don’t forget about our parnter Avid Co. Looking for a Vitamix blender?  Don’t forget to use our coupon code 06-007296 for free shipping.         [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

Cathy and Todd discuss unconscious bias and how our “brain shortcuts” can cause us to deviate from our true values. They also discuss why people get triggered and how we can differentiate between political correctness and considerate language. They share their experience of the Sia concert, how girls and boys are raised differently, and Cathy’s awesome experience at the Emerging Women Conference. They also answer a listener's question when their daughter seeks out a definition of beauty.

Cathy and Todd discuss unconscious bias and how our “brain shortcuts” can cause us to deviate from our true values. They also discuss why people get triggered and how we can differentiate between political correctness and considerate language. They share their experience of the Sia concert, how girls and boys are raised differently, and Cathy’s awesome experience at the Emerging Women Conference. They also answer a listener's question when their daughter seeks out a definition of beauty.

Cathy and Todd discuss sexual assault, how it’s an act of power and control, and why so many women are using the #notokay hashtag. They share research from Daniel Pink, author of Drive, about how to better communicate with our kids and inspire them to become more intrinsically motivated. They also listen to wise words from the Holistic Life Foundation’s Ali Smith, one of the keynotes for the Zen Parenting Conference.

Cathy and Todd discuss sexual assault, how it’s an act of power and control, and why so many women are using the #notokay hashtag. They share research from Daniel Pink, author of Drive, about how to better communicate with our kids and inspire them to become more intrinsically motivated. They also listen to wise words from the Holistic Life Foundation’s Ali Smith, one of the keynotes for the Zen Parenting Conference.

Cathy and Todd discuss why misery loves company and how we can better support each other through failures and success. They also process why pain isn’t a competition, and how what we focus on creates our life story. They share a poignant quote about happiness from Patton Oswalt, answer a listener question about how to teach our children humility, and discuss why all songs about teachers are negative or sexualized. They also answer a listener's question who struggles with a very confident child.

Cathy and Todd discuss why misery loves company and how we can better support each other through failures and success. They also process why pain isn’t a competition, and how what we focus on creates our life story. They share a poignant quote about happiness from Patton Oswalt, answer a listener question about how to teach our children humility, and discuss why all songs about teachers are negative or sexualized. They also answer a listener's question who struggles with a very confident child.

Cathy and Todd discuss that we all have energy to share, but we have to be conscious of how we use it so it doesn’t get misdirected or used to harm. Todd shares his metaphorical paddle boarding experience, and Cathy explains why experiencing “illumination” reminds us to have faith during dark times. They share the poetry of Mark Nepo, Rob Bell’s recent podcast, surprising wisdom from Kanye, and the compassionate mission of Linked In CEO Jeff Weiner.

Cathy and Todd discuss that we all have energy to share, but we have to be conscious of how we use it so it doesn’t get misdirected or used to harm. Todd shares his metaphorical paddle boarding experience, and Cathy explains why experiencing “illumination” reminds us to have faith during dark times. They share the poetry of Mark Nepo, Rob Bell’s recent podcast, surprising wisdom from Kanye, and the compassionate mission of Linked In CEO Jeff Weiner.

What if we questioned how we looked at things, said things, believed things? Cathy and Todd discuss Heidi Stevens article from the Chicago Tribune about how using “what if” in front of our kids statements can change our reaction, and another Tribune article about why there’s a difference between empathetic belief and empathetic action. They also discuss the Emmy Awards, including Sarah Paulson’s apology to Marsha Clark, and why it’s OK that Eddie Murphy doesn’t want to do stand up anymore. They answer a listener’s question about how to take care of one child’s emotional needs when the other kids are also having emotional breakdowns.

What if we questioned how we looked at things, said things, believed things? Cathy and Todd discuss Heidi Stevens article from the Chicago Tribune about how using “what if” in front of our kids statements can change our reaction, and another Tribune article about why there’s a difference between empathetic belief and empathetic action. They also discuss the Emmy Awards, including Sarah Paulson’s apology to Marsha Clark, and why it’s OK that Eddie Murphy doesn’t want to do stand up anymore. They answer a listener’s question about how to take care of one child’s emotional needs when the other kids are also having emotional breakdowns.

Cathy and Todd talk with author Devorah Heitner, author of Screenwise about appreciating the benefits of technology in the home while monitoring overuse and inappropriate content. They also discuss why not all tech-time is created equal, what it means to be a tech-positive parent, and why parents hold the wisdom that children need when they use their devices.

Cathy and Todd talk with author Devorah Heitner, author of Screenwise about appreciating the benefits of technology in the home while monitoring overuse and inappropriate content. They also discuss why not all tech-time is created equal, what it means to be a tech-positive parent, and why parents hold the wisdom that children need when they use their devices.

Cathy and Todd discuss the importance and transformational experience of pain using the wisdom of Louis CK, Glennon Doyle Melton, Brene Brown, and Pema Chodron. They process how and why we are hard-wired to deal with pain, why the bravery to feel it will heal us, and how we can better handle the pain we feel. They share pop culture references from Silence of the Lambs, Mr. Mom, and Cheers.

Cathy and Todd discuss the importance and transformational experience of pain using the wisdom of Louis CK, Glennon Doyle Melton, Brene Brown, and Pema Chodron. They process how and why we are hard-wired to deal with pain, why the bravery to feel it will heal us, and how we can better handle the pain we feel. They share pop culture references from Silence of the Lambs, Mr. Mom, and Cheers.

We interview Erik Treese and Bryan Thomas from The Mankind Project. The Mankind Project is a global brotherhood that conducts challenging and highly rewarding programs for men at every stage of life. We dive deep into what men's work is, shadows, emotional intelligence, and the danger of phrases like "man up" and "boys don't cry." We also discuss how relationships can be affected as a result of men working on themselves.

We interview Erik Treese and Bryan Thomas from The Mankind Project. The Mankind Project is a global brotherhood that conducts challenging and highly rewarding programs for men at every stage of life. We dive deep into what men's work is, shadows, emotional intelligence, and the danger of phrases like "man up" and "boys don't cry." We also discuss how relationships can be affected as a result of men working on themselves.

Cathy and Todd discuss what “the familiarity of your interiors” means, and why it’s vital for personal growth and healthy relationships. They talk about the Little League World Series, specifically the 1982 Kirkland champs, and why adult pressure can lead to sports not being fun. They also discuss why popular fiction books have so many unhinged characters, how empathy can be taught, and the definition of “universal principles”. Upcoming Events MON, SEP 26 AT 7:00 PM, ELMHURST, IL Zen Parenting Presents Screenagers Click here for tickets By: Zen Parenting Radio Trailer- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQx2X0BXgZg New Warrior Training Adventure- October 28th-October 30th The Tribe Men's Adventure Retreat Shoot Todd an email @ comments@zenparentingradio.com for more information Zen Gets Real Conference- February 24th and 25th 2017 Other Resources Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn won the National Indie Excellence Award!Go here to order your book. Click the following links to purchase Cathy’s books The Self-Aware Parent Part 1 & and Part 2 The Tribe Men's group   Tree of Life Chiropractic Care have some interesting workshops planned. If you shop Amazon by going through our website first (there is an amazon link on the bottom right hand of our home page), a portion of your sale will help fund future Zen Parenting programming. How important is a good smile?  Just ask our new partner John J Kelly DDS.  They are located on the northwest side of Chicago and will meet all of your family’s dental needs. Painting or remodeling?  Don’t forget about our parnter Avid Co. Looking for a Vitamix blender?  Don’t forget to use our coupon code 06-007296 for free shipping.         [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

Cathy and Todd discuss what “the familiarity of your interiors” means, and why it’s vital for personal growth and healthy relationships. They talk about the Little League World Series, specifically the 1982 Kirkland champs, and why adult pressure can lead to sports not being fun. They also discuss why popular fiction books have so many unhinged characters, how empathy can be taught, and the definition of “universal principles”. Upcoming Events MON, SEP 26 AT 7:00 PM, ELMHURST, IL Zen Parenting Presents Screenagers Click here for tickets By: Zen Parenting Radio Trailer- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQx2X0BXgZg New Warrior Training Adventure- October 28th-October 30th The Tribe Men's Adventure Retreat Shoot Todd an email @ comments@zenparentingradio.com for more information Zen Gets Real Conference- February 24th and 25th 2017 Other Resources Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn won the National Indie Excellence Award!Go here to order your book. Click the following links to purchase Cathy’s books The Self-Aware Parent Part 1 & and Part 2 The Tribe Men's group   Tree of Life Chiropractic Care have some interesting workshops planned. If you shop Amazon by going through our website first (there is an amazon link on the bottom right hand of our home page), a portion of your sale will help fund future Zen Parenting programming. How important is a good smile?  Just ask our new partner John J Kelly DDS.  They are located on the northwest side of Chicago and will meet all of your family’s dental needs. Painting or remodeling?  Don’t forget about our parnter Avid Co. Looking for a Vitamix blender?  Don’t forget to use our coupon code 06-007296 for free shipping.         [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

Cathy and Todd discuss why change is a type of loss and how rituals can acknowledge meaning, slow down time, and connect us. They offer many examples of rituals, explain why ritual is different than superstition, and discuss why Rob Bell says the space between certainty and uncertainty is where the magic happens. Get your early bird tickets for the 2017 Zen Parenting Conference (with Rob Bell, Rosalind Wiseman, and Ali Smith), and get your tickets to Screenagers on 9/26!

Cathy and Todd discuss why change is a type of loss and how rituals can acknowledge meaning, slow down time, and connect us. They offer many examples of rituals, explain why ritual is different than superstition, and discuss why Rob Bell says the space between certainty and uncertainty is where the magic happens. Get your early bird tickets for the 2017 Zen Parenting Conference (with Rob Bell, Rosalind Wiseman, and Ali Smith), and get your tickets to Screenagers on 9/26!

Todd and Cathy announce and discuss the speakers for their 2017 Zen Parenting Let’s Get Real Conference. New York Times Best-Selling Author and Oprah favorite Rob Bell, parenting educator and author of Queen Bees and Wannabes (the basis of the 2004 film Mean Girls) Rosalind Wiseman, and Executive Director of the Holistic Life Foundation, a safe space for learning mindfulness in the inner city of Baltimore, Ali Smith. The conference is Feb 24+25, 2017 at the Westin in Lombard (15 minutes outside of Chicago, 15 minutes from O’Hare). Early bird tickets are for sale until Sept 30th.

Todd and Cathy announce and discuss the speakers for their 2017 Zen Parenting Let’s Get Real Conference. New York Times Best-Selling Author and Oprah favorite Rob Bell, parenting educator and author of Queen Bees and Wannabes (the basis of the 2004 film Mean Girls) Rosalind Wiseman, and Executive Director of the Holistic Life Foundation, a safe space for learning mindfulness in the inner city of Baltimore, Ali Smith. The conference is Feb 24+25, 2017 at the Westin in Lombard (15 minutes outside of Chicago, 15 minutes from O’Hare). Early bird tickets are for sale until Sept 30th.

Cathy and Todd discuss how The Brady Bunch is a great learning tool and why it’s still relevant today. They answer a listener’s question about how to help her son with friendships, and why caring and loving too much can actually be a problem. They finish by discussing Tony’s Robbins appearance on Super Soul Sunday and why things can be easy to teach, but hard to apply.

Cathy and Todd discuss how The Brady Bunch is a great learning tool and why it’s still relevant today. They answer a listener’s question about how to help her son with friendships, and why caring and loving too much can actually be a problem. They finish by discussing Tony’s Robbins appearance on Super Soul Sunday and why things can be easy to teach, but hard to apply.

Todd and Cathy discuss how when we give up control, we recognize that we never had control in the first place. They process what it means to have humility, be patient with the “not knowing”, and be appreciative for the right now. They discuss why the oldest child is expected to be most responsible, Todd’s most recent experience with letting go, and Dr. Shefali’s most recent appearance on Super Soul Sunday.

Todd and Cathy discuss how when we give up control, we recognize that we never had control in the first place. They process what it means to have humility, be patient with the “not knowing”, and be appreciative for the right now. They discuss why the oldest child is expected to be most responsible, Todd’s most recent experience with letting go, and Dr. Shefali’s most recent appearance on Super Soul Sunday.

Todd and Cathy discuss the book Words Can Change Your Brain and process why “compassionate communication” supports healthy relationships and the brain development of our children. They also discuss the impact of an all-female Ghostbusters cast and how a female presidential nominee shapes the way boys and girls see each other.

Todd and Cathy discuss the book Words Can Change Your Brain and process why “compassionate communication” supports healthy relationships and the brain development of our children. They also discuss the impact of an all-female Ghostbusters cast and how a female presidential nominee shapes the way boys and girls see each other.

Cathy and Todd discuss how we can shift the dynamics of any situation by “flipping the script” (as explained in this Invisibilia podcast). They also discuss why we have to keep peace inside so we can keep peace outside, why we have to question the negativity that we hear, and why the journey from the head to the heart is always the longest and most important. They end the show with a poem by Mattie J.T. Stepanek.

Cathy and Todd discuss how we can shift the dynamics of any situation by “flipping the script” (as explained in this Invisibilia podcast). They also discuss why we have to keep peace inside so we can keep peace outside, why we have to question the negativity that we hear, and why the journey from the head to the heart is always the longest and most important. They end the show with a poem by Mattie J.T. Stepanek.

Cathy and Todd discuss how to process the continuous bad news and stay in a place of compassion. They talk about the importance of mercy and grace, and how we can all contribute to a ripple effect of goodness. They discuss Tony Robbins new documentary, Mark Nepo’s wisdom, and share some advice from Martha Beck.

Cathy and Todd discuss how to process the continuous bad news and stay in a place of compassion. They talk about the importance of mercy and grace, and how we can all contribute to a ripple effect of goodness. They discuss Tony Robbins new documentary, Mark Nepo’s wisdom, and share some advice from Martha Beck.

Cathy and Todd discuss privilege and why self-awareness is essential when we are talking about societal racism. They also discuss why recognizing injustice is not synonymous with taking sides, how we can talk to our children about injustice, and why the best leadership is calm. They share clips from The Daily Show, President Obama, and Michael Franti’s “Same As It Ever Was” song. They end by discussing why the phrase “happy wife, happy life” may need to be reevaluated.

Cathy and Todd discuss privilege and why self-awareness is essential when we are talking about societal racism. They also discuss why recognizing injustice is not synonymous with taking sides, how we can talk to our children about injustice, and why the best leadership is calm. They share clips from The Daily Show, President Obama, and Michael Franti’s “Same As It Ever Was” song. They end by discussing why the phrase “happy wife, happy life” may need to be reevaluated.

Cathy and Todd discuss why we “force” our children to try new things, and why this is usually about our fear rather than theirs.

Cathy and Todd discuss why we “force” our children to try new things, and why this is usually about our fear rather than theirs.

Todd and Cathy talk with Georgia DeClark, preschool teacher and parent coach who’s life took a dramatic turn when she decided to come out at 60.

Todd and Cathy talk with Georgia DeClark, preschool teacher and parent coach who’s life took a dramatic turn when she decided to come out at 60.

…so you can be content when you achieve your goals. Cathy and Todd talk about why striving and goal-setting can keep us from contentment, and why money doesn’t equal happiness. They discuss why actor Tony Hale didn’t feel any happier after getting a major role on Arrested Development (hint: he realized he wasn’t living in the moment), and how Lady Gaga found peace and reconnected to her authentic self.

…so you can be content when you achieve your goals. Cathy and Todd talk about why striving and goal-setting can keep us from contentment, and why money doesn’t equal happiness. They discuss why actor Tony Hale didn’t feel any happier after getting a major role on Arrested Development (hint: he realized he wasn’t living in the moment), and how Lady Gaga found peace and reconnected to her authentic self.

Todd and Cathy talk with entrepreneur Jill Salzman about Founding Moms, a collective of offline meetups and online resources (based all over the world) where mom entrepreneurs can exchange, connect and learn from one another. Jill shares her authentic take on work and mothering and how women are changing the workplace and supporting each other. Check out Foundingmoms.com and listen to Jill’s podcast, Breaking Down Your Business for more.

Todd and Cathy talk with entrepreneur Jill Salzman about Founding Moms, a collective of offline meetups and online resources (based all over the world) where mom entrepreneurs can exchange, connect and learn from one another. Jill shares her authentic take on work and mothering and how women are changing the workplace and supporting each other. Check out Foundingmoms.com and listen to Jill’s podcast, Breaking Down Your Business for more.

Cathy and Todd discuss Orlando, gun legislation, and how we can better communicate about our differences. Todd shares why not hearing “Happy Father’s Day” led to a two-hour conversation about the energy we bring to a room and what we really want for our kids. They also discuss why we must continuously wake up while parenting, why parenting is a one-way-giving situation, and how our homes can become places of unconditional support and acceptance. They discuss this blog by Roseanne Cash and they announce the screening of Screenagers at York Theater on Sept 26, 2016.

Cathy and Todd discuss Orlando, gun legislation, and how we can better communicate about our differences. Todd shares why not hearing “Happy Father’s Day” led to a two-hour conversation about the energy we bring to a room and what we really want for our kids. They also discuss why we must continuously wake up while parenting, why parenting is a one-way-giving situation, and how our homes can become places of unconditional support and acceptance. They discuss this blog by Roseanne Cash and they announce the screening of Screenagers at York Theater on Sept 26, 2016.

Cathy and Todd discuss the Stanford rape case, the presidential campaign, and why embracing healthy masculinity and femininity is the key to meaningful change. They also discuss how anger can be paralyzing, why we should be supporting each other rather than fighting each other, and why we need to use our individual voices to create more love and compassion. They reference Tara Mohr’s Playing Big, Marianne Williamson’s A Woman’s Worth, The Hunting Ground, The Mask You Live In, Miss Representation, and The Sunflower by Simon Wiesenthal.

Cathy and Todd discuss the Stanford rape case, the presidential campaign, and why embracing healthy masculinity and femininity is the key to meaningful change. They also discuss how anger can be paralyzing, why we should be supporting each other rather than fighting each other, and why we need to use our individual voices to create more love and compassion. They reference Tara Mohr’s Playing Big, Marianne Williamson’s A Woman’s Worth, The Hunting Ground, The Mask You Live In, Miss Representation, and The Sunflower by Simon Wiesenthal.

Cathy and Todd discuss talking to kids about fear - how to notice it, normalize, and get creative with it. They process why parents need to acknowledge their own fear so they can authentically talk with their kids about being afraid. They share why fear is not always bad and why it gets us closer to the truth. They answer listener questions about religion and music in family culture, and how a pregnant busy mom can find some quiet. They also reference Pema Chodron and Byron Katie.

Cathy and Todd discuss talking to kids about fear - how to notice it, normalize, and get creative with it. They process why parents need to acknowledge their own fear so they can authentically talk with their kids about being afraid. They share why fear is not always bad and why it gets us closer to the truth. They answer listener questions about religion and music in family culture, and how a pregnant busy mom can find some quiet. They also reference Pema Chodron and Byron Katie.

Cathy and Todd discuss some listener questions about toddler sleep issues, a 6-year-old who wants to know more about sex, and why work jargon can be so annoying.   Other Resources Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn won the National Indie Excellence Award!Go here to order your book. Click the following links to purchase Cathy’s books The Self-Aware Parent Part 1  & and Part 2 The Tribe Men's group   Tree of Life Chiropractic Care have some interesting workshops planned. If you shop Amazon by going through our website first (there is an amazon link on the bottom right hand of our home page), a portion of your sale will help fund future Zen Parenting programming. How important is a good smile?  Just ask our new partner John J Kelly DDS.  They are located on the northwest side of Chicago and will meet all of your family’s dental needs. Painting or remodeling?  Don’t forget about our parnter Avid Co. Looking for a Vitamix blender?  Don’t forget to use our coupon code 06-007296 for free shipping.       [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

Cathy and Todd discuss some listener questions about toddler sleep issues, a 6-year-old who wants to know more about sex, and why work jargon can be so annoying.   Other Resources Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn won the National Indie Excellence Award!Go here to order your book. Click the following links to purchase Cathy’s books The Self-Aware Parent Part 1  & and Part 2 The Tribe Men's group   Tree of Life Chiropractic Care have some interesting workshops planned. If you shop Amazon by going through our website first (there is an amazon link on the bottom right hand of our home page), a portion of your sale will help fund future Zen Parenting programming. How important is a good smile?  Just ask our new partner John J Kelly DDS.  They are located on the northwest side of Chicago and will meet all of your family’s dental needs. Painting or remodeling?  Don’t forget about our parnter Avid Co. Looking for a Vitamix blender?  Don’t forget to use our coupon code 06-007296 for free shipping.       [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

Todd and Cathy talk with Maureen Blaha, Executive Director of the National Runaway Safeline, a support and intervention system for youth and parents. Maureen shares why teens runaway and how families can be more open to the emotional needs of kids. The safeline is based in Chicago but helps kids and families nationwide. http://www.1800runaway.org/

Todd and Cathy talk with Maureen Blaha, Executive Director of the National Runaway Safeline, a support and intervention system for youth and parents. Maureen shares why teens runaway and how families can be more open to the emotional needs of kids. The safeline is based in Chicago but helps kids and families nationwide. http://www.1800runaway.org/

[powerpress] Cathy and Todd discuss the need for validation, why it’s important to become aware of our needs, and sometimes put them aside, to connect with our kids, and how we can better support each other as we become more self-aware and conscious. Zen Parenting is part of the Education: Next Generation virtual conference – click here to register and read more about it. The Zen Parenting Conference will be held on Feb 24+25, 2017 – more information coming this summer!

[powerpress] Cathy and Todd discuss the need for validation, why it’s important to become aware of our needs, and sometimes put them aside, to connect with our kids, and how we can better support each other as we become more self-aware and conscious. Zen Parenting is part of the Education: Next Generation virtual conference – click here to register and read more about it. The Zen Parenting Conference will be held on Feb 24+25, 2017 – more information coming this summer!

Cathy and Todd discuss their difficult conversation and how they went “in and out of child” – is your present-time self talking or is it your 7-year-old? Your inner 7-year-old has a right to be there, and he/she may have some valid points, but the adult needs to manage the conversation so it doesn’t go off the rails. They also discuss why learning and healing through relationship can be more powerful than individual work. While both are important, the goal is to take self-awareness and apply it to all relationships. You may be calm and loving when you are alone, but can you bring these practices into a difficult conversation?

Cathy and Todd discuss their difficult conversation and how they went “in and out of child” – is your present-time self talking or is it your 7-year-old? Your inner 7-year-old has a right to be there, and he/she may have some valid points, but the adult needs to manage the conversation so it doesn’t go off the rails. They also discuss why learning and healing through relationship can be more powerful than individual work. While both are important, the goal is to take self-awareness and apply it to all relationships. You may be calm and loving when you are alone, but can you bring these practices into a difficult conversation?

Have you seen the movie or stage production of Once? The movie starred musician Glen Hansard, and his interview on Sam Jone’s Off Camera podcast led to a deep discussion about education, parenting, friendship and why it’s so important to create our own life story. Cathy and Todd also discuss mom guilt and how to become more clear about how your true feelings.

Have you seen the movie or stage production of Once? The movie starred musician Glen Hansard, and his interview on Sam Jone’s Off Camera podcast led to a deep discussion about education, parenting, friendship and why it’s so important to create our own life story. Cathy and Todd also discuss mom guilt and how to become more clear about how your true feelings.

Cathy and Todd talk about suffering and why we either transform it, or we transmit it (quote taken from Richard Rohr). They also discuss why it’s important to celebrate young women, why talking about sexuality is so important, why tampons and pads have a “luxury” tax, and what it means to be in the “8:30 club”. The first three people to purchase Cathy’s award–winning book, Living What You Want Your Kids to Learn through the Zen Parenting website will also receive a free copy of The Conscious Parent by Dr. Shefali Tsabary. Other Resources Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn won the National Indie Excellence Award!Go here to order your book. Click the following links to purchase Cathy’s books The Self-Aware Parent Part 1  & and Part 2 The Tribe Men's group Tree of Life Chiropractic Care have some interesting workshops planned. If you shop Amazon by going through our website first (there is an amazon link on the bottom right hand of our home page), a portion of your sale will help fund future Zen Parenting programming. How important is a good smile?  Just ask our new partner John J Kelly DDS.  They are located on the northwest side of Chicago and will meet all of your family’s dental needs. Painting or remodeling?  Don’t forget about our parnter Avid Co. Looking for a Vitamix blender?  Don’t forget to use our coupon code 06-007296 for free shipping.

Cathy and Todd talk about suffering and why we either transform it, or we transmit it (quote taken from Richard Rohr). They also discuss why it’s important to celebrate young women, why talking about sexuality is so important, why tampons and pads have a “luxury” tax, and what it means to be in the “8:30 club”. The first three people to purchase Cathy’s award–winning book, Living What You Want Your Kids to Learn through the Zen Parenting website will also receive a free copy of The Conscious Parent by Dr. Shefali Tsabary. Other Resources Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn won the National Indie Excellence Award!Go here to order your book. Click the following links to purchase Cathy’s books The Self-Aware Parent Part 1  & and Part 2 The Tribe Men's group Tree of Life Chiropractic Care have some interesting workshops planned. If you shop Amazon by going through our website first (there is an amazon link on the bottom right hand of our home page), a portion of your sale will help fund future Zen Parenting programming. How important is a good smile?  Just ask our new partner John J Kelly DDS.  They are located on the northwest side of Chicago and will meet all of your family’s dental needs. Painting or remodeling?  Don’t forget about our parnter Avid Co. Looking for a Vitamix blender?  Don’t forget to use our coupon code 06-007296 for free shipping.

We've been inundated with listener questions so we decided to dedicate an entire show to answering them. Below are the topics as well as the time stamps for each question: 3:15 Chakras and toddlerhood 14:42 Step-parents and an 8 year old with a huge personality 23:52 Preschool drop-off 30:22 Spanking 36:28 2 year old son with tantrums 43:25 Top 10 books We also mentioned a podcast that would be helpful for step parents which can be found @ http://www.wbur.org/2016/03/25/dear-sugar-episode-forty-eight

We've been inundated with listener questions so we decided to dedicate an entire show to answering them. Below are the topics as well as the time stamps for each question: 3:15 Chakras and toddlerhood 14:42 Step-parents and an 8 year old with a huge personality 23:52 Preschool drop-off 30:22 Spanking 36:28 2 year old son with tantrums 43:25 Top 10 books We also mentioned a podcast that would be helpful for step parents which can be found @ http://www.wbur.org/2016/03/25/dear-sugar-episode-forty-eight

Cathy and Todd discuss an article from the Chicago Tribune about getting rid of emotional and mental clutter. They process the devastation around Prince’s death, but Todd thinks he has alexithemia because he’s not as sad as everyone else. They also talk travel sports, small breakdowns, and Caddyshack.

Cathy and Todd discuss an article from the Chicago Tribune about getting rid of emotional and mental clutter. They process the devastation around Prince’s death, but Todd thinks he has alexithemia because he’s not as sad as everyone else. They also talk travel sports, small breakdowns, and Caddyshack.

In the second part of our interview with Dr. Therese Rowley, Therese says Cathy has "clairsentience", she challenges me to remove love some of the walls i have built up, and gives parents of hyper-active children some holistic things you can do to help them. You can learn more about Therese by going to http://thereserowley.com/

In the second part of our interview with Dr. Therese Rowley, Therese says Cathy has "clairsentience", she challenges me to remove love some of the walls i have built up, and gives parents of hyper-active children some holistic things you can do to help them. You can learn more about Therese by going to http://thereserowley.com/

Cathy and Todd explain how negative experiences stick immediately, but it takes 15 seconds of savoring a positive experience for it to imprint on the brain. They also discuss why judging or fighting someone doesn’t create change. Instead, we can recognize negative behavior and then role model a more rational and kind way to interact. A listener asks a question about work/life balance and they provide insight and resources.

Cathy and Todd explain how negative experiences stick immediately, but it takes 15 seconds of savoring a positive experience for it to imprint on the brain. They also discuss why judging or fighting someone doesn’t create change. Instead, we can recognize negative behavior and then role model a more rational and kind way to interact. A listener asks a question about work/life balance and they provide insight and resources.

Does your child seem intuitive, gifted, or sensitive? Cathy and Todd talk with Dr. Therese Rowley, author, consultant, skilled intuitive and innovative educator who challenges us to see sensitive children through a new lens. This is part one of a two-part interview (part two will be posted next Friday).

Does your child seem intuitive, gifted, or sensitive? Cathy and Todd talk with Dr. Therese Rowley, author, consultant, skilled intuitive and innovative educator who challenges us to see sensitive children through a new lens. This is part one of a two-part interview (part two will be posted next Friday).

Cathy and Todd discuss the importance of “emotional hygiene” (as explained by the Dalai Lama) and why boundaries lead to more compassion (as explained by Brenè Brown). They also discuss how we can subtlety (and often unconsciously) shame our kids, and how to become more aware of why and how we say things.

Cathy and Todd discuss the importance of “emotional hygiene” (as explained by the Dalai Lama) and why boundaries lead to more compassion (as explained by Brenè Brown). They also discuss how we can subtlety (and often unconsciously) shame our kids, and how to become more aware of why and how we say things.

Cathy and Todd discuss the 60 Minutes report about the prison system in Germany and how they put rehabilitation above retribution. They also discuss the article in The Atlantic about punish-free parenting, Rocky Balboa’s great advice, and Tim McGraw’s Humble and Kind performance.

Cathy and Todd discuss the 60 Minutes report about the prison system in Germany and how they put rehabilitation above retribution. They also discuss the article in The Atlantic about punish-free parenting, Rocky Balboa’s great advice, and Tim McGraw’s Humble and Kind performance.

Cathy and Todd discuss how emotional intelligence and “cognitive control” lead to our ability to be kind. They also discuss the relationship between EQ, grit, and resilience, and why paying attention is the essential factor. Cathy and Todd will be focusing on kindness the entire month of April, starting with a talk on Tuesday, April 6th at Fitz’s Spare Keys at 7 pm titled Teaching Kids to Be Kind. Click here to register.

Cathy and Todd discuss how emotional intelligence and “cognitive control” lead to our ability to be kind. They also discuss the relationship between EQ, grit, and resilience, and why paying attention is the essential factor. Cathy and Todd will be focusing on kindness the entire month of April, starting with a talk on Tuesday, April 6th at Fitz’s Spare Keys at 7 pm titled Teaching Kids to Be Kind. Click here to register.

Cathy and Todd discuss self regulation and self organization and why it’s essential for self understanding and relationship building. They discuss the definition of the mind, how the brain processes emotion, and why the brain can always learn new things (neuroplasticity). They also discuss the hilarity and absurdity of the Walk of Life Project.

Cathy and Todd discuss self regulation and self organization and why it’s essential for self understanding and relationship building. They discuss the definition of the mind, how the brain processes emotion, and why the brain can always learn new things (neuroplasticity). They also discuss the hilarity and absurdity of the Walk of Life Project.

We interview Bill Dwight, the Founder of Famzoo.com.  Famzoo is an online family banking designed for kids, teens, and parents. With this amazing resource, it makes it easier for families earn, save, budget , and spend.  We've been utilizing Famzoo for several months and have loved it.  Listen in to help teach your children the power of money. To learn more about Famzoo- click on the Famzoo link on the lower right hand side of zenparentingradio.com  Make sure to enter "zenfinance" to get an extra month free.  You won't regret it.   Other Resources   Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn won the National Indie Excellence Award!Go here to order your book. Click the following links to purchase Cathy’s books The Self-Aware Parent Part 1  & and Part 2 The Tribe Men's group   Tree of Life Chiropractic Care have some interesting workshops planned. If you shop Amazon by going through our website first (there is an amazon link on the bottom right hand of our home page), a portion of your sale will help fund future Zen Parenting programming. How important is a good smile?  Just ask our new partner John J Kelly DDS.  They are located on the northwest side of Chicago and will meet all of your family’s dental needs. Painting or remodeling?  Don’t forget about our parnter Avid Co. Looking for a Vitamix blender?  Don’t forget to use our coupon code 06-007296 for free shipping.       [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section admin_label="section"][et_pb_row admin_label="row"][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

We interview Bill Dwight, the Founder of Famzoo.com.  Famzoo is an online family banking designed for kids, teens, and parents. With this amazing resource, it makes it easier for families earn, save, budget , and spend.  We've been utilizing Famzoo for several months and have loved it.  Listen in to help teach your children the power of money. To learn more about Famzoo- click on the Famzoo link on the lower right hand side of zenparentingradio.com  Make sure to enter "zenfinance" to get an extra month free.  You won't regret it.   Other Resources   Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn won the National Indie Excellence Award!Go here to order your book. Click the following links to purchase Cathy’s books The Self-Aware Parent Part 1  & and Part 2 The Tribe Men's group   Tree of Life Chiropractic Care have some interesting workshops planned. If you shop Amazon by going through our website first (there is an amazon link on the bottom right hand of our home page), a portion of your sale will help fund future Zen Parenting programming. How important is a good smile?  Just ask our new partner John J Kelly DDS.  They are located on the northwest side of Chicago and will meet all of your family’s dental needs. Painting or remodeling?  Don’t forget about our parnter Avid Co. Looking for a Vitamix blender?  Don’t forget to use our coupon code 06-007296 for free shipping.       [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section admin_label="section"][et_pb_row admin_label="row"][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

Cathy and Todd discuss their experience at the Zen Parenting Conference, they process why it’s important to be curious about your fear, and they answer a listener’s question about feeling continuously triggered by negative people.

Cathy and Todd discuss their experience at the Zen Parenting Conference, they process why it’s important to be curious about your fear, and they answer a listener’s question about feeling continuously triggered by negative people.

Cathy and Todd discuss the definition of diplomacy and why it’s important in parenting as well as in government (micro and macro level). They also discuss the true and false self (as explained by D.W. Winnicott) and why the true self is the key to our integrity, compassion, and connection to others.

Cathy and Todd discuss the definition of diplomacy and why it’s important in parenting as well as in government (micro and macro level). They also discuss the true and false self (as explained by D.W. Winnicott) and why the true self is the key to our integrity, compassion, and connection to others.

This is Part 2 of this discussion, Part 1 aired on March 1st and can be found @ https://zenparentingradio.com/292 Cathy and Todd discuss the many issues raised at the Academy Awards (race, sexual assault, sexual abuse, the environment), why they are necessary to discuss, and what each of us can do to be more empathetic, open, and aware. This is Part 1 of a two-part discussion.  Other links mentioned in this podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=epKmOtDZj5Q     Other Resources Zen Gets Real 2016 Conference tickets are now on sale. Zen Gets Real Attendee And Sponsorship Information Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn won the National Indie Excellence Award!Go here to order your book. Click the following links to purchase Cathy’s books The Self-Aware Parent Part 1  & and Part 2 The Tribe Men's group   Tree of Life Chiropractic Care have some interesting workshops planned. If you shop Amazon by going through our website first (there is an amazon link on the bottom right hand of our home page), a portion of your sale will help fund future Zen Parenting programming. How important is a good smile?  Just ask our new partner John J Kelly DDS.  They are located on the northwest side of Chicago and will meet all of your family’s dental needs. Painting or remodeling?  Don’t forget about our parnter Avid Co. Looking for a Vitamix blender?  Don’t forget to use our coupon code 06-007296 for free shipping.

This is Part 2 of this discussion, Part 1 aired on March 1st and can be found @ http://zenparentingradio.com/292 Cathy and Todd discuss the many issues raised at the Academy Awards (race, sexual assault, sexual abuse, the environment), why they are necessary to discuss, and what each of us can do to be more empathetic, open, and aware. This is Part 1 of a two-part discussion.  Other links mentioned in this podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=epKmOtDZj5Q     Other Resources Zen Gets Real 2016 Conference tickets are now on sale. Zen Gets Real Attendee And Sponsorship Information Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn won the National Indie Excellence Award!Go here to order your book. Click the following links to purchase Cathy’s books The Self-Aware Parent Part 1  & and Part 2 The Tribe Men's group   Tree of Life Chiropractic Care have some interesting workshops planned. If you shop Amazon by going through our website first (there is an amazon link on the bottom right hand of our home page), a portion of your sale will help fund future Zen Parenting programming. How important is a good smile?  Just ask our new partner John J Kelly DDS.  They are located on the northwest side of Chicago and will meet all of your family’s dental needs. Painting or remodeling?  Don’t forget about our parnter Avid Co. Looking for a Vitamix blender?  Don’t forget to use our coupon code 06-007296 for free shipping.

Cathy and Todd discuss the many issues raised at the Academy Awards (race, sexual assault, sexual abuse, the environment), why they are necessary to discuss, and what each of us can do to be more empathetic, open, and aware. This is Part 1 of a two-part discussion (Part 2 will air on Friday).

Cathy and Todd discuss the many issues raised at the Academy Awards (race, sexual assault, sexual abuse, the environment), why they are necessary to discuss, and what each of us can do to be more empathetic, open, and aware. This is Part 1 of a two-part discussion (Part 2 will air on Friday).

Todd and Cathy discuss the literal and spiritual definition of grow or die, and share why this universal wisdom keeps us in alignment with ourselves and others. They also discuss the brain of an introvert and how it differs from an extrovert (click here to see the illustrations).

Todd and Cathy discuss the literal and spiritual definition of grow or die, and share why this universal wisdom keeps us in alignment with ourselves and others. They also discuss the brain of an introvert and how it differs from an extrovert (click here to see the illustrations).

Staying connected and a changing school system Cathy and Todd discuss why our relationship with our children needs to change and evolve as they age, and why it’s important to be creative in maintaining a connection. They also discuss major changes in the college admission process and how this will effect our children’s high school experience.

Staying connected and a changing school system Cathy and Todd discuss why our relationship with our children needs to change and evolve as they age, and why it’s important to be creative in maintaining a connection. They also discuss major changes in the college admission process and how this will effect our children’s high school experience.

This podcast is a replay of an interview we did with Dr. Shefali Tsabary who is our keynote speaker @ the Zen Gets Real Conference on March 11th and 12th.  We hope to see you there!!!! We interview Dr. Shefali Tsabary the author of the The Conscious Parent (with a forward written by the Dalai Lama) and her new book Out of Control  which questions why and how we discipline children. Some of the issues we discuss with Dr. Shefali: – What are the first steps we can take to become a more conscious parent? – What prevents us from being the parent that we want to be? – Why most discipline strategies don’t work. How parenting our children can help us heal our past wounds. – How to release guilt when we recognize our parenting challenges are less about our children issues and more about our issues. – Can our children be an instrument for our own personal growth? – How do we release the power of natural consequences? - See more at: https://zenparentingradio.com/shefali/#sthash.ZA8QwqMD.dpuf Other Resources Zen Gets Real 2016 Conference tickets are now on sale. Zen Gets Real Attendee And Sponsorship Information Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn won the National Indie Excellence Award!Go here to order your book. Click the following links to purchase Cathy’s books The Self-Aware Parent Part 1  & and Part 2 The Tribe Men's group Tree of Life Chiropractic Care have some interesting workshops planned. If you shop Amazon by going through our website first (there is an amazon link on the bottom right hand of our home page), a portion of your sale will help fund future Zen Parenting programming. How important is a good smile?  Just ask our new partner John J Kelly DDS.  They are located on the northwest side of Chicago and will meet all of your family’s dental needs. Painting or remodeling?  Don’t forget about our parnter Avid Co. Looking for a Vitamix blender?  Don’t forget to use our coupon code 06-007296 for free shipping.

This podcast is a replay of an interview we did with Dr. Shefali Tsabary who is our keynote speaker @ the Zen Gets Real Conference on March 11th and 12th.  We hope to see you there!!!! We interview Dr. Shefali Tsabary the author of the The Conscious Parent (with a forward written by the Dalai Lama) and her new book Out of Control  which questions why and how we discipline children. Some of the issues we discuss with Dr. Shefali: – What are the first steps we can take to become a more conscious parent? – What prevents us from being the parent that we want to be? – Why most discipline strategies don’t work. How parenting our children can help us heal our past wounds. – How to release guilt when we recognize our parenting challenges are less about our children issues and more about our issues. – Can our children be an instrument for our own personal growth? – How do we release the power of natural consequences? - See more at: http://zenparentingradio.com/shefali/#sthash.ZA8QwqMD.dpuf Other Resources Zen Gets Real 2016 Conference tickets are now on sale. Zen Gets Real Attendee And Sponsorship Information Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn won the National Indie Excellence Award!Go here to order your book. Click the following links to purchase Cathy’s books The Self-Aware Parent Part 1  & and Part 2 The Tribe Men's group Tree of Life Chiropractic Care have some interesting workshops planned. If you shop Amazon by going through our website first (there is an amazon link on the bottom right hand of our home page), a portion of your sale will help fund future Zen Parenting programming. How important is a good smile?  Just ask our new partner John J Kelly DDS.  They are located on the northwest side of Chicago and will meet all of your family’s dental needs. Painting or remodeling?  Don’t forget about our parnter Avid Co. Looking for a Vitamix blender?  Don’t forget to use our coupon code 06-007296 for free shipping.

This podcast is a replay of an interview we did with Dr. Shefali Tsabary who is our keynote speaker @ the Zen Gets Real Conference on March 11th and 12th. We hope to see you there!!!! We interview Dr. Shefali Tsabary the author of the The Conscious Parent (with a forward written by the Dalai Lama) and her new book Out of Control which questions why and how we discipline children. Some of the issues we discuss with Dr. Shefali: – What are the first steps we can take to become a more conscious parent? – What prevents us from being the parent that we want to be? – Why most discipline strategies don’t work. How parenting our children can help us heal our past wounds. – How to release guilt when we recognize our parenting challenges are less about our children issues and more about our issues. – Can our children be an instrument for our own personal growth? – How do we release the power of natural consequences?

This podcast is a replay of an interview we did with Dr. Shefali Tsabary who is our keynote speaker @ the Zen Gets Real Conference on March 11th and 12th. We hope to see you there!!!! We interview Dr. Shefali Tsabary the author of the The Conscious Parent (with a forward written by the Dalai Lama) and her new book Out of Control which questions why and how we discipline children. Some of the issues we discuss with Dr. Shefali: – What are the first steps we can take to become a more conscious parent? – What prevents us from being the parent that we want to be? – Why most discipline strategies don’t work. How parenting our children can help us heal our past wounds. – How to release guilt when we recognize our parenting challenges are less about our children issues and more about our issues. – Can our children be an instrument for our own personal growth? – How do we release the power of natural consequences?

Cathy and Todd discuss why wellness is more important than dollars, and why journalists who present both sides of a story keep us open and connected. They also discuss the friendship between Scalia and Ginsburg, why compassion in essential in all situations, and the tools we need to manage our anger.

Cathy and Todd discuss why wellness is more important than dollars, and why journalists who present both sides of a story keep us open and connected. They also discuss the friendship between Scalia and Ginsburg, why compassion in essential in all situations, and the tools we need to manage our anger.

We speak with the Founder of Changing The Game Project John O'Sullivan. Their mission is to ensure that we return youth sports to our children, and put the ‘play’ back in ‘play ball.’ For every Tiger Woods and Andre Aggassi, there are thousands of others who are in it for the fun (until the adults take the fun out of it.)

We speak with the Founder of Changing The Game Project John O'Sullivan. Their mission is to ensure that we return youth sports to our children, and put the ‘play’ back in ‘play ball.’ For every Tiger Woods and Andre Aggassi, there are thousands of others who are in it for the fun (until the adults take the fun out of it.)

Cathy and Todd discuss relationship “levels” (as explained by Tony Robbins) and how we can communicate and become better partners. They discuss how these levels can apply to our children and other relationships, and how we can be supportive and connected rather than enabling.   Other Resources Zen Gets Real 2016 Conference tickets are now on sale. Zen Gets Real Attendee And Sponsorship Information Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn won the National Indie Excellence Award!Go here to order your book. Click the following links to purchase Cathy’s books The Self-Aware Parent Part 1  & and Part 2 The Tribe Men's group   Tree of Life Chiropractic Care have some interesting workshops planned. If you shop Amazon by going through our website first (there is an amazon link on the bottom right hand of our home page), a portion of your sale will help fund future Zen Parenting programming. How important is a good smile?  Just ask our new partner John J Kelly DDS.  They are located on the northwest side of Chicago and will meet all of your family’s dental needs. Painting or remodeling?  Don’t forget about our parnter Avid Co. Looking for a Vitamix blender?  Don’t forget to use our coupon code 06-007296 for free shipping.

Cathy and Todd discuss relationship “levels” (as explained by Tony Robbins) and how we can communicate and become better partners. They discuss how these levels can apply to our children and other relationships, and how we can be supportive and connected rather than enabling.   Other Resources Zen Gets Real 2016 Conference tickets are now on sale. Zen Gets Real Attendee And Sponsorship Information Cathy’s 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn won the National Indie Excellence Award!Go here to order your book. Click the following links to purchase Cathy’s books The Self-Aware Parent Part 1  & and Part 2 The Tribe Men's group   Tree of Life Chiropractic Care have some interesting workshops planned. If you shop Amazon by going through our website first (there is an amazon link on the bottom right hand of our home page), a portion of your sale will help fund future Zen Parenting programming. How important is a good smile?  Just ask our new partner John J Kelly DDS.  They are located on the northwest side of Chicago and will meet all of your family’s dental needs. Painting or remodeling?  Don’t forget about our parnter Avid Co. Looking for a Vitamix blender?  Don’t forget to use our coupon code 06-007296 for free shipping.

This is a follow-up interview from a podcast we did in October of 2014 titled Setting Boundaries With Love (Interview begins @ the 21:00 minute mark) At the time, Rick's wife Trish was battling with a rare form of Hydrocephalus and in need of exposure to raise funds for the medical expenses that came with this journey. We were happy to oblige. Fast forward to February of 2016 and we pick up where we left off in October of 2014- only this time Trish was able to join us for the interview. It's a heartfelt interview of the miracles of medicine as well as faith.

This is a follow-up interview from a podcast we did in October of 2014 titled Setting Boundaries With Love (Interview begins @ the 21:00 minute mark) At the time, Rick's wife Trish was battling with a rare form of Hydrocephalus and in need of exposure to raise funds for the medical expenses that came with this journey. We were happy to oblige. Fast forward to February of 2016 and we pick up where we left off in October of 2014- only this time Trish was able to join us for the interview. It's a heartfelt interview of the miracles of medicine as well as faith.

Cathy and Todd discuss “doing your best” and why the definition of “best” is defined by the individual. They also discuss The Four Agreements, The Karate Kid, Best in Show, Inside Out, Canada’s Prime Minister, and why Flint Michigan is so heartbreaking.

Cathy and Todd discuss “doing your best” and why the definition of “best” is defined by the individual. They also discuss The Four Agreements, The Karate Kid, Best in Show, Inside Out, Canada’s Prime Minister, and why Flint Michigan is so heartbreaking.

1st time author Charlie Donlea shares his experience of bringing his dream of being a pubished author of his own suspense thriller into reality. His journey began all the way back in 2001 when he started his first manuscript. Perservering through many failures, obstacles, and challenges, Charlie never gave up on his dream. In this provactive interview, we explore inside the mind of Charlie to find out why he kept going even though all signs told him to quit.

1st time author Charlie Donlea shares his experience of bringing his dream of being a pubished author of his own suspense thriller into reality. His journey began all the way back in 2001 when he started his first manuscript. Perservering through many failures, obstacles, and challenges, Charlie never gave up on his dream. In this provactive interview, we explore inside the mind of Charlie to find out why he kept going even though all signs told him to quit.

Todd and Cathy discuss how using certain words can turn people off, and using other, more inclusive words can build connectedness. They also discuss the most important thing Tim Robbin’s learned from his parents, the mysteriousness of the universe, and answer a few listener questions.

Todd and Cathy discuss how using certain words can turn people off, and using other, more inclusive words can build connectedness. They also discuss the most important thing Tim Robbin’s learned from his parents, the mysteriousness of the universe, and answer a few listener questions.

Cathy and Todd discuss "spiritual ego" and why many teachers develop a sense of “specialness” around their knowledge or awareness. This can lead to a desire for power rather than an ability to live the message. They also discuss a listener question about how to talk to teens about drugs.

Cathy and Todd discuss "spiritual ego" and why many teachers develop a sense of “specialness” around their knowledge or awareness. This can lead to a desire for power rather than an ability to live the message. They also discuss a listener question about how to talk to teens about drugs.

Cathy and Todd welcome back Tara Mohr, author of Playing Big and expert on women’s leadership and well-being. Tara explains what a “calling” really means, and she shares how women can communicate more effectively in the workplace and at home. Tara’s book is now in paperback - you can read more about her at taramohr.com.

Cathy and Todd welcome back Tara Mohr, author of Playing Big and expert on women’s leadership and well-being. Tara explains what a “calling” really means, and she shares how women can communicate more effectively in the workplace and at home. Tara’s book is now in paperback - you can read more about her at taramohr.com.

Cathy and Todd discuss autonomous growth and relational growth and process why they are both essential. They also discuss the impact and passing of David Bowie, answer a listener question, and explain how to meet your goals through “temptation bundling”.

Cathy and Todd discuss autonomous growth and relational growth and process why they are both essential. They also discuss the impact and passing of David Bowie, answer a listener question, and explain how to meet your goals through “temptation bundling”.

Cathy and Todd talk with Kenji Oyasu, Executive Medical Director of the Brightside, a clinic dedicated to the treatment of prescription drugs and heroin addiction. He offers new insight to why this addiction is so deadly, why it can be a challenge to treat, and the new model of recovery that is offering hope and changing lives.

Cathy and Todd talk with Kenji Oyasu, Executive Medical Director of the Brightside, a clinic dedicated to the treatment of prescription drugs and heroin addiction. He offers new insight to why this addiction is so deadly, why it can be a challenge to treat, and the new model of recovery that is offering hope and changing lives.

Cathy and Todd discuss the things that can impress us this year versus the things that typically impress us (money, labels, “likes”). They also share how they handled their daughter’s desire to watch a scary movie, and they answer a listener’s question about what to do when a teenager is making poor choices.

Cathy and Todd discuss the things that can impress us this year versus the things that typically impress us (money, labels, “likes”). They also share how they handled their daughter’s desire to watch a scary movie, and they answer a listener’s question about what to do when a teenager is making poor choices.

Cathy and Todd discuss how we can stay connected and curious about our kids lives. They also share a new perspective on being busy, and why contemplation is more important that “doing”. They reference the following books, blogs and quotes: Anna Quindlen’s book Loud and Clear. A blog titled Busy Is A Sickness by Scott Dannemiller The Victor Hugo quote – “To contemplate is to toil, to think is to do”. Randy Pauch’s book The Last Lecture

Cathy and Todd discuss how we can stay connected and curious about our kids lives. They also share a new perspective on being busy, and why contemplation is more important that “doing”. They reference the following books, blogs and quotes: Anna Quindlen’s book Loud and Clear. A blog titled Busy Is A Sickness by Scott Dannemiller The Victor Hugo quote – “To contemplate is to toil, to think is to do”. Randy Pauch’s book The Last Lecture

Cathy and Todd discuss four gifts you can give yourself for the holidays and throughout 2016, and the mindfulness wisdom of Bill Murray and Billy Corgan.

Cathy and Todd discuss four gifts you can give yourself for the holidays and throughout 2016, and the mindfulness wisdom of Bill Murray and Billy Corgan.

Cathy and Todd discuss the difference between the circle of influence and the circle of concern, and which one can actually change the world. They also discuss why worry isn’t necessary, how to make your newsfeeds more enjoyable, and how we can turn despair into hope.

Cathy and Todd discuss the difference between the circle of influence and the circle of concern, and which one can actually change the world. They also discuss why worry isn’t necessary, how to make your newsfeeds more enjoyable, and how we can turn despair into hope.

Todd and Cathy talk to Jay Smith, creator of the MacGill First Aid Kit. While planning for an upcoming vacation, Jay has trouble finding a kit with all of the essential emergency supplies – so he MADE one. It’s an ideal holiday gift, and you can use coupon code zencode for a discount (Cathy and Todd have already bought three!). Jay also asks a question about his daughter’s recent jealously of her stepmom, and Cathy and Todd offer some support. If you're interested in ordering a family first aid kit, don't forget to enter the coupon code ($5.00 off and free shipping), by entering "ZENCODE" upon checkout.

Todd and Cathy talk to Jay Smith, creator of the MacGill First Aid Kit. While planning for an upcoming vacation, Jay has trouble finding a kit with all of the essential emergency supplies – so he MADE one. It’s an ideal holiday gift, and you can use coupon code zencode for a discount (Cathy and Todd have already bought three!). Jay also asks a question about his daughter’s recent jealously of her stepmom, and Cathy and Todd offer some support. If you're interested in ordering a family first aid kit, don't forget to enter the coupon code ($5.00 off and free shipping), by entering "ZENCODE" upon checkout.

Cathy and Todd discuss the importance of character and reference David Brooks’ new book The Road to Character. They also discuss suffering, getting your “loves” in order, and why their house felt like a scene from European Vacation this weekend.

Cathy and Todd discuss the importance of character and reference David Brooks’ new book The Road to Character. They also discuss suffering, getting your “loves” in order, and why their house felt like a scene from European Vacation this weekend.

Todd and Cathy discuss the pressure children feel around homework and how we can support them rather than increase their anxiety. They process the meaning of inner disarmerment and why this individual practice will lead to a change in our immediate surroundings and world (outer disarmerment). They also discuss Mr. Mom, the Rocky movies, and Todds new coaching education.

Todd and Cathy discuss the pressure children feel around homework and how we can support them rather than increase their anxiety. They process the meaning of inner disarmerment and why this individual practice will lead to a change in our immediate surroundings and world (outer disarmerment). They also discuss Mr. Mom, the Rocky movies, and Todds new coaching education.

Cathy and Todd discuss why it’s important to stay expand when we are in fear or crisis rather than contract and shut down. We have the capacity to function and make heart-centered choices even when we are afraid. They also discuss Mockingjay Part 2, Planes, Trains, and Automobiles, and a great question from a listener regarding the many different paths to “success”.

Cathy and Todd discuss why it’s important to stay expand when we are in fear or crisis rather than contract and shut down. We have the capacity to function and make heart-centered choices even when we are afraid. They also discuss Mockingjay Part 2, Planes, Trains, and Automobiles, and a great question from a listener regarding the many different paths to “success”.

Cathy and Todd discuss talking to kids about tragic events such as the recent terrorist attack. They also discuss 10 things every middle schooler should know, and answer a few listener questions about sensitivity and technology. Click here to read Cathy’s blog about what to do after Paris.

Cathy and Todd discuss talking to kids about tragic events such as the recent terrorist attack. They also discuss 10 things every middle schooler should know, and answer a few listener questions about sensitivity and technology. Click here to read Cathy’s blog about what to do after Paris.

Cathy and Todd discuss why children like to have something of their own to feel “special", and why it helps to normalize these feelings rather than shame them into thinking differently. They also discuss why normalizing feelings is reliant on the parent’s self understanding, and why it’s important to frame the world, experiences, and opportunities as abundant rather than limited.

Cathy and Todd discuss why children like to have something of their own to feel “special", and why it helps to normalize these feelings rather than shame them into thinking differently. They also discuss why normalizing feelings is reliant on the parent’s self understanding, and why it’s important to frame the world, experiences, and opportunities as abundant rather than limited.

In the 2nd half of this interview with Dr. Duffy, we talk about issues specific to teen-agers and our the topics covered includes empowering our sons, Brene Brown, and how to "manage" the boys who come to take out your teenage daughter. HINT- It does not include a shotgun over the fireplace and other difficulties of being a teenager in this day and age.

In the 2nd half of this interview with Dr. Duffy, we talk about issues specific to teen-agers and our the topics covered includes empowering our sons, Brene Brown, and how to "manage" the boys who come to take out your teenage daughter. HINT- It does not include a shotgun over the fireplace and other difficulties of being a teenager in this day and age.

Todd and Cathy discuss criticism, why it hurts so much and why it’s an inevitable part of life. They discuss why it’s important to speak up, even in the face of criticism, and how to offer constructive criticism rather than blame and guilt. They share personal stories about how they talk to each other about their pain, and why most of the pain stems from childhood. They discuss the wisdom of Elizabeth Gilbert and cartoonist Lynda Barry and how they deal with criticism in their creative lives.

Todd and Cathy discuss criticism, why it hurts so much and why it’s an inevitable part of life. They discuss why it’s important to speak up, even in the face of criticism, and how to offer constructive criticism rather than blame and guilt. They share personal stories about how they talk to each other about their pain, and why most of the pain stems from childhood. They discuss the wisdom of Elizabeth Gilbert and cartoonist Lynda Barry and how they deal with criticism in their creative lives.

That is a quote from Dr. Duffy who visits us again in this two-part interview. We talk about issues specific to teen-agers and our the topics covered includes suicide, drugs and alcohol, technology, depression, and the difficulties of being a teenager in this day and age.

That is a quote from Dr. Duffy who visits us again in this two-part interview. We talk about issues specific to teen-agers and our the topics covered includes suicide, drugs and alcohol, technology, depression, and the difficulties of being a teenager in this day and age.

Cathy and Todd share some reactions to their kids behavior, why it’s important to recognize how you feel before your respond, and why understanding your response will keep you self-aware. They also discuss privilege, their upcoming interview with Dr. John Duffy, and why Todd thinks he’s being duped by strawberry companies.

Cathy and Todd share some reactions to their kids behavior, why it’s important to recognize how you feel before your respond, and why understanding your response will keep you self-aware. They also discuss privilege, their upcoming interview with Dr. John Duffy, and why Todd thinks he’s being duped by strawberry companies.

Cathy and Todd discuss what it means to live above and below the line, a consciousness tool taught by Jim Dethmer from the Conscious Leadership Group. Above the line means you think from a place of abundance, creativity, and openness, while below the line means you think defensively and rigidly and with a constant need to be right. This understanding affects our understanding of the workplace, our parenting, and most importantly ourselves.

Cathy and Todd discuss what it means to live above and below the line, a consciousness tool taught by Jim Dethmer from the Conscious Leadership Group. Above the line means you think from a place of abundance, creativity, and openness, while below the line means you think defensively and rigidly and with a constant need to be right. This understanding affects our understanding of the workplace, our parenting, and most importantly ourselves.

Cathy and Todd discuss the importance of grieving, the value of “keening”, and a listener asks a question steming from Susan Stiffelman’s book, Parenting with Presence. Todd shares his favorite quote about personal responsibility, Cathy tells a serendipitous story about the conference she attended, and they somehow work in Six Feet Under and Terminator 2.

Cathy and Todd discuss the importance of grieving, the value of “keening”, and a listener asks a question steming from Susan Stiffelman’s book, Parenting with Presence. Todd shares his favorite quote about personal responsibility, Cathy tells a serendipitous story about the conference she attended, and they somehow work in Six Feet Under and Terminator 2.

Cathy and Todd discuss the effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and why it’s more powerful than just focusing on behavior. They also discuss Tara Mohr’s five new takeaways about mindfulness and lovingkindness, and why Elizabeth Gilbert thinks fear is “boring”.

Cathy and Todd discuss the effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and why it’s more powerful than just focusing on behavior. They also discuss Tara Mohr’s five new takeaways about mindfulness and lovingkindness, and why Elizabeth Gilbert thinks fear is “boring”.

Cathy and Todd share the words of a 6-year-old girl who wants her divorced parents to stop fighting. She offers wisdom beyond her years, and wakes us up to what children know and what we need to remember. Her words are a form of grace, and being open to her words will deepen your awareness and remind you that grace often comes from the most uncommon places – other people, a sunset, an animal, or simply the willingness to notice what has always been there.

Cathy and Todd share the words of a 6-year-old girl who wants her divorced parents to stop fighting. She offers wisdom beyond her years, and wakes us up to what children know and what we need to remember. Her words are a form of grace, and being open to her words will deepen your awareness and remind you that grace often comes from the most uncommon places – other people, a sunset, an animal, or simply the willingness to notice what has always been there.

Cathy and Todd discuss the life-changing mindfulness research of Ellen Langer, author and professor from Harvard who has been researching mindfulness (and mindlessness) since the 70’s. She defines mindfulness as paying attention and being able to notice new things, while recognizing that experiences are based on the words and ideas that we attach to them. Ellen Langer was interviewed by Krista Tippet for the On Being Podcast. They also talk about different ways of dealing with sibling rivalry. Todd unveils his new technique in dealing with children being unkind towards one another.

Cathy and Todd discuss the life-changing mindfulness research of Ellen Langer, author and professor from Harvard who has been researching mindfulness (and mindlessness) since the 70’s. She defines mindfulness as paying attention and being able to notice new things, while recognizing that experiences are based on the words and ideas that we attach to them. Ellen Langer was interviewed by Krista Tippet for the On Being Podcast. They also talk about different ways of dealing with sibling rivalry. Todd unveils his new technique in dealing with children being unkind towards one another.

Cathy and Todd discuss Brenè Brown’s new book Rising Strong and focus on the first step, The Reckoning. Reckoning is how we engage and become curious about our feelings, our willingness to practice emotional intelligence. If we do not engage our feelings, if we deny and disengage, then our emotions “don’t go away; instead, they own us, they define us…” (from Rising Strong).

Cathy and Todd discuss Brenè Brown’s new book Rising Strong and focus on the first step, The Reckoning. Reckoning is how we engage and become curious about our feelings, our willingness to practice emotional intelligence. If we do not engage our feelings, if we deny and disengage, then our emotions “don’t go away; instead, they own us, they define us…” (from Rising Strong).

Cathy and Todd pay tribute to Wayne Dyer by sharing his Ten Secrets, and explain how Wayne influenced their lives and millions of others. They also discuss the Beastie Boys, Batdad, and why they dance before taping a podcast.

Cathy and Todd pay tribute to Wayne Dyer by sharing his Ten Secrets, and explain how Wayne influenced their lives and millions of others. They also discuss the Beastie Boys, Batdad, and why they dance before taping a podcast.

Cathy and Todd discuss what it means to be present, and how this knowledge can be turned into daily practice. They also discuss their differences when it comes to filling up a Saturday, why it’s important to dance with our fear, and why the Humans of New York Facebook page wakes us up to the world.

Cathy and Todd discuss what it means to be present, and how this knowledge can be turned into daily practice. They also discuss their differences when it comes to filling up a Saturday, why it’s important to dance with our fear, and why the Humans of New York Facebook page wakes us up to the world.

Girls tend to read books with male protagonists (Harry Potter, Diary of a Wimpy Kid), but do boys read books with female protagonists? Todd and Cathy ask this question, as well as how men respond to female leads in movies and television (specifically their recent experience after seeing the movie Trainwreck, and why Amy Poehler once got mad at Jimmy Fallon in the SNL writer’s room). They also talk about Who’s the Boss, Family Ties, and why IBM and Netflix are changing their family policies.and they talk about Amy Schumer’s Football Town Nights sketch and why humor can open up important conversations.

Girls tend to read books with male protagonists (Harry Potter, Diary of a Wimpy Kid), but do boys read books with female protagonists? Todd and Cathy ask this question, as well as how men respond to female leads in movies and television (specifically their recent experience after seeing the movie Trainwreck, and why Amy Poehler once got mad at Jimmy Fallon in the SNL writer’s room). They also talk about Who’s the Boss, Family Ties, and why IBM and Netflix are changing their family policies.and they talk about Amy Schumer’s Football Town Nights sketch and why humor can open up important conversations.

*May not be appropriate for children* Cathy and Todd discuss John Oliver’s most recent rant on Last Week Tonight about sex education. He makes vital points about why abstinence-only education doesn’t work for all, why there's no required standards for sex education around the country, and why shame/guilt/fear do not change sexual behavior, they only negatively impact the way people feel about themselves. They also discuss why Elizabeth Smart believes abstinence-only sex ed can be harmful, and they talk about Amy Schumer’s Football Town Nights sketch and why humor can open up important conversations.

*May not be appropriate for children* Cathy and Todd discuss John Oliver’s most recent rant on Last Week Tonight about sex education. He makes vital points about why abstinence-only education doesn’t work for all, why there's no required standards for sex education around the country, and why shame/guilt/fear do not change sexual behavior, they only negatively impact the way people feel about themselves. They also discuss why Elizabeth Smart believes abstinence-only sex ed can be harmful, and they talk about Amy Schumer’s Football Town Nights sketch and why humor can open up important conversations.

Cathy and Todd discuss why some people grow from difficult times, and why some people stay stuck and feel victimized by their experiences. They discuss the power of personal responsibility and why taking care of yourself and moving through challenge is a natural and necessary part of human evolution.

Cathy and Todd discuss why some people grow from difficult times, and why some people stay stuck and feel victimized by their experiences. They discuss the power of personal responsibility and why taking care of yourself and moving through challenge is a natural and necessary part of human evolution.

Cathy and Todd discuss self-acceptance, and Todd offers a new understanding of his difficult emotions (with the help of Jeff Foster). They also discuss the vital distinction between fact and opinion, and process how life is full of paradox. They discuss Kathryn Schulz’s TED talk about the importance of being wrong, and why “to err is human”.

Cathy and Todd discuss self-acceptance, and Todd offers a new understanding of his difficult emotions (with the help of Jeff Foster). They also discuss the vital distinction between fact and opinion, and process how life is full of paradox. They discuss Kathryn Schulz’s TED talk about the importance of being wrong, and why “to err is human”.

Todd and Cathy discuss their workshop with Tony Robbins, specifically their inspiring moments and new life lessons. Tony is an advisor to leaders around the world, a recognized authority on the psychology of leadership, negotiations, organizational turnaround, and peak performance, and he has been honored consistently for his strategic intellect and humanitarian endeavors.

Todd and Cathy discuss their workshop with Tony Robbins, specifically their inspiring moments and new life lessons. Tony is an advisor to leaders around the world, a recognized authority on the psychology of leadership, negotiations, organizational turnaround, and peak performance, and he has been honored consistently for his strategic intellect and humanitarian endeavors.

Cathy and Todd discuss speech patterns, specifically discussing the new documentary Do I Sound Gay? by filmmaker David Thorpe. They also discuss the phenomenon of “upspeak” and how those who use it may not be taken seriously, and why the Kardashian voice or “vocal fry” is not only challenging on the ears, but also the vocal cords.

Cathy and Todd discuss speech patterns, specifically discussing the new documentary Do I Sound Gay? by filmmaker David Thorpe. They also discuss the phenomenon of “upspeak” and how those who use it may not be taken seriously, and why the Kardashian voice or “vocal fry” is not only challenging on the ears, but also the vocal cords.

Do you feel like you have been “working” on “healing” and that any sadness or discomfort means you are failing? Todd and Cathy discuss Jeff Foster and specifically his teaching that feelings and experiences will always be a part of us, and that the more we accept and understand this, the less challenging they will be. They also discuss Malala’s new documentary, share a passage from The Book of Awakening, and celebrate the U.S. Women’s Soccer Championship.

Do you feel like you have been “working” on “healing” and that any sadness or discomfort means you are failing? Todd and Cathy discuss Jeff Foster and specifically his teaching that feelings and experiences will always be a part of us, and that the more we accept and understand this, the less challenging they will be. They also discuss Malala’s new documentary, share a passage from The Book of Awakening, and celebrate the U.S. Women’s Soccer Championship.

When a spouse travels or works long hours, it’s hard to find a consistent family rhythm. And when an often-absent spouse is home for a day or two, it can throw off the daily rhythm and cause friction. How can we acknowledge and discuss this openly without offending each other? Cathy and Todd share their experience with this challenging topic, and demonstrate how this is relevant to all of our relationships.

When a spouse travels or works long hours, it’s hard to find a consistent family rhythm. And when an often-absent spouse is home for a day or two, it can throw off the daily rhythm and cause friction. How can we acknowledge and discuss this openly without offending each other? Cathy and Todd share their experience with this challenging topic, and demonstrate how this is relevant to all of our relationships.

Cathy and Todd discuss an article titled “Why mothers and teenage daughters fight” and question why and how these fights occur. Can we be self-aware when we are talking with our teenagers, and can we create space between our emotional experiences and how we react? It’s not easy, but it’s a worthy practice to keep family relationships healthy. Todd shares an inspirational story and Cathy talks about addictiveness of reality television.

Cathy and Todd discuss an article titled “Why mothers and teenage daughters fight” and question why and how these fights occur. Can we be self-aware when we are talking with our teenagers, and can we create space between our emotional experiences and how we react? It’s not easy, but it’s a worthy practice to keep family relationships healthy. Todd shares an inspirational story and Cathy talks about addictiveness of reality television.

Cathy and Todd share a letter from a listener whose son discovers himself through dance, and how this discovery leads to self-aware parenting. It's an inspirational and emotional story about how to create a connected relationship with your child - you don't want to miss it. Steve is the father in this story has a part-time photography business which can be found here. Cathy and Todd also discuss Pixar's Inside Out.

Cathy and Todd share a letter from a listener whose son discovers himself through dance, and how this discovery leads to self-aware parenting. It's an inspirational and emotional story about how to create a connected relationship with your child - you don't want to miss it. Steve is the father in this story has a part-time photography business which can be found here. Cathy and Todd also discuss Pixar's Inside Out.

Cathy and Todd discuss why self criticism and fear decrease our ability to create meaningful change, and why self compassion is essential for goal setting. They also discuss the “neurotic roommate” inside our head, why balance may not exist, and the big mistake at the end of The Karate Kid.

Cathy and Todd discuss why self criticism and fear decrease our ability to create meaningful change, and why self compassion is essential for goal setting. They also discuss the “neurotic roommate” inside our head, why balance may not exist, and the big mistake at the end of The Karate Kid.

Cathy and Todd discuss a blog by Mark Manson titled, Stop Trying to Be Happy. They discuss the difference between happiness and pleasure, and why "happiness is the process of becoming your ideal self". It's the pursuit of our ideal self, not the achievement of goals, that allows us to experience our "happy".

Cathy and Todd discuss a blog by Mark Manson titled, Stop Trying to Be Happy. They discuss the difference between happiness and pleasure, and why "happiness is the process of becoming your ideal self". It's the pursuit of our ideal self, not the achievement of goals, that allows us to experience our "happy".

Cathy and Todd discuss overdetermination, the recognition that multiple factors lead to a single outcome. They also process the importance of integrity and communication and how they play a role in our most important relationships. They reference M. Scott Peck’s The Road Less Traveled and Beyond, Pearl Jam, and the movies Blow, Poltergeist, and Honeymoon in Vegas. How does it all fit together? Listen and find out!

Cathy and Todd discuss overdetermination, the recognition that multiple factors lead to a single outcome. They also process the importance of integrity and communication and how they play a role in our most important relationships. They reference M. Scott Peck’s The Road Less Traveled and Beyond, Pearl Jam, and the movies Blow, Poltergeist, and Honeymoon in Vegas. How does it all fit together? Listen and find out!

Todd and Cathy discuss a powerful commencement speech by Jim Carrey, and also a thought-provoking quote by Ethan Hawke. They process why it's important to follow your own path and trust love instead of fear.

Todd and Cathy discuss a powerful commencement speech by Jim Carrey, and also a thought-provoking quote by Ethan Hawke. They process why it's important to follow your own path and trust love instead of fear.

We discuss the public shaming of children, and how it can be detrimental to the child and your relationship. We discuss compassion and empathy, and how spreading anger or shaming will not create a better world. We also share some of Brenè Brown’s research around shame – specifically why secrecy, silence, and judgment will exacerbate it, and empathy will eradicate it.

We discuss the public shaming of children, and how it can be detrimental to the child and your relationship. We discuss compassion and empathy, and how spreading anger or shaming will not create a better world. We also share some of Brenè Brown’s research around shame – specifically why secrecy, silence, and judgment will exacerbate it, and empathy will eradicate it.

Cathy and Todd discuss Sheryl Sandburg’s moving tribute to her late husband Dave, and highlight the numerous lessons about present-moment living and finding meaning even in the darkest times. They also discuss Caitlyn Jenner and why transgender is an umbrella term with many different variables. Todd shares a blog about a dad who talks to his daughter about puberty, and why this can positively impact how a girl responds to her own development.

Cathy and Todd discuss Sheryl Sandburg’s moving tribute to her late husband Dave, and highlight the numerous lessons about present-moment living and finding meaning even in the darkest times. They also discuss Caitlyn Jenner and why transgender is an umbrella term with many different variables. Todd shares a blog about a dad who talks to his daughter about puberty, and why this can positively impact how a girl responds to her own development.

Do you practice spreading loving kindness to yourself and others? “Metta” is tool that you can use AND share with your kids. Cathy and Todd also discuss why education and awareness play such a huge role in educating boys and changing societal norms.

Do you practice spreading loving kindness to yourself and others? “Metta” is tool that you can use AND share with your kids. Cathy and Todd also discuss why education and awareness play such a huge role in educating boys and changing societal norms.

Cathy and Todd discuss the “five awareness” exercises that helps you maintain loving relationships, how to connect with a child who has different interests, and how Todd’s been handling his worry. They also discuss close talkers, Fast Times at Ridgemont High, and how you can support them in their Kickstarter Campaign for the ZPR Conference in March, 2016.

Cathy and Todd discuss the “five awareness” exercises that helps you maintain loving relationships, how to connect with a child who has different interests, and how Todd’s been handling his worry. They also discuss close talkers, Fast Times at Ridgemont High, and how you can support them in their Kickstarter Campaign for the ZPR Conference in March, 2016.

Our “Conference With People We Love” and Dealing with Anxiety We are hosting our first-ever live event, and we launched a Kickstarter campaign to make it the BEST it can be! Our “Conference With People Will Love” is March 11/12, 2016, and we already have amazing speakers confirmed (Dr. Shefali, John O’Sullivan, John Duffy) – check out our campaign to become a sponsor, vendor, get your tickets (with VIP status!) or simply to support this exciting event. We hope you will join us, it’s going to be a fantastic weekend! We also discuss Todd’s issues with worry and anxiety, and why it’s so important to “release” a problem rather than “think through” a problem.

Our “Conference With People We Love” and Dealing with Anxiety We are hosting our first-ever live event, and we launched a Kickstarter campaign to make it the BEST it can be! Our “Conference With People Will Love” is March 11/12, 2016, and we already have amazing speakers confirmed (Dr. Shefali, John O’Sullivan, John Duffy) – check out our campaign to become a sponsor, vendor, get your tickets (with VIP status!) or simply to support this exciting event. We hope you will join us, it’s going to be a fantastic weekend! We also discuss Todd’s issues with worry and anxiety, and why it’s so important to “release” a problem rather than “think through” a problem.

Maddie's world changed when she was diagnosed with Turners Syndrome in 5th grade, but it didn't define her, it simply allowed her to know herself so much better. Turners Syndrome comes with physical challenges and learning disabilities, and Maddie had to accept and endure both. Her story will remind you that we are so much more than a diagnosis, and that even our challenges can be our greatest gifts. Maddie is our niece and we know you will be inspired by her story - her motto is Be Fearless, and she puts her energy toward living these words.

Maddie's world changed when she was diagnosed with Turners Syndrome in 5th grade, but it didn't define her, it simply allowed her to know herself so much better. Turners Syndrome comes with physical challenges and learning disabilities, and Maddie had to accept and endure both. Her story will remind you that we are so much more than a diagnosis, and that even our challenges can be our greatest gifts. Maddie is our niece and we know you will be inspired by her story - her motto is Be Fearless, and she puts her energy toward living these words.

Cathy and Todd discuss what it means to “runaway” from our problems. It’s a lot more common then we realize, and when we do it, our children learn to do the same. They also discuss how to communicate with kids when they break the rules, why we should think before we judge other parents, and why David Letterman will be missed.

Cathy and Todd discuss what it means to “runaway” from our problems. It’s a lot more common then we realize, and when we do it, our children learn to do the same. They also discuss how to communicate with kids when they break the rules, why we should think before we judge other parents, and why David Letterman will be missed.

Todd and Cathy discuss partnership and how slowly and incrementally we take on certain roles and get stuck in patterns. They process how to communicate what feels fair and balanced, and why communication is not one big talk, but rather many talks that lead to greater trust and stability. Effective communication with a partner leads to a more intimate relationship, and it serves as a training ground for how we communicate with others. Listen to this episode with your partner!

Todd and Cathy discuss partnership and how slowly and incrementally we take on certain roles and get stuck in patterns. They process how to communicate what feels fair and balanced, and why communication is not one big talk, but rather many talks that lead to greater trust and stability. Effective communication with a partner leads to a more intimate relationship, and it serves as a training ground for how we communicate with others. Listen to this episode with your partner!

Cathy and Todd discuss this article about Madison, a girl who’s life appeared perfect on Instagram, but in actuality, she was struggling and took her own life. We process what it means when the inner world doesn't match the outer world, how social media shapes our perception of other people, and what we can learn from Madison. We also discuss the movie Beginners, and why it’s now in Cathy’s Top Ten favorites.

Cathy and Todd discuss this article about Madison, a girl who’s life appeared perfect on Instagram, but in actuality, she was struggling and took her own life. We process what it means when the inner world doesn't match the outer world, how social media shapes our perception of other people, and what we can learn from Madison. We also discuss the movie Beginners, and why it’s now in Cathy’s Top Ten favorites.

Cathy and Todd talk with Brigid Schulte, award-winning journalist for The Washington Post, and author of Overwhelmed: How to Work, Love, and Play When No One Has the Time. She shares why busyness has become the new status symbol, why moms are still the default caregivers/home managers, how kids are absorbing our stress, and why we should find more time for the present.

Cathy and Todd talk with Brigid Schulte, award-winning journalist for The Washington Post, and author of Overwhelmed: How to Work, Love, and Play When No One Has the Time. She shares why busyness has become the new status symbol, why moms are still the default caregivers/home managers, how kids are absorbing our stress, and why we should find more time for the present.

Cathy and Todd discuss Bruce Jenner and Janet Mock and why understanding transgender helps us expand our awareness about everything. They also discuss how a listener handled his child’s rage, and they answer a listener question about how to handle it when your kid won’t practice her instrument. Even more important, they share their full list of top 10 favorite movies – they might surprise you! Other Resources Parent/Daughter date night!!!  Next in  is our ZPR community screenings is a documentary called The Empowerment Project brought to you by Zen Parenting Radio and CCS.  This film documents ordinary women doing extraordinary things.  It's on Monday, May 18th @ York Theater in Elmhurst.  Click here for tickets. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JTIogIwn8U0 Cathy's 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn- The POWER of Self-Aware Parenting, is now on sale! Go here to order your book. Click the following links to purchase Cathy's books The Self-Aware Parent Part 1  & and Part 2 Click here to find her blog, and click here to find her Chicago Parent column. Todd has a few spots opening for his Men's Group.  Email me @ comments@zenparentingradio.com Tree of Life Chiropractic Care have some interesting workshops planned.  An outline can be found here. If you shop Amazon by going through our website first (there is an amazon link on the bottom right hand of our home page), a portion of your sale will help fund our Be U program.  Thanks for supporting us! Check out our new website & be sure to sign up to get all new podcast sent direct to your inbox @ ZPR. We would love to hear any comments from the show by sending us an email @ comments@zenparentingradio.com You can be sure to hear more by liking our Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/ZenParenting How important is a good smile?  Just ask our new partner John J Kelly DDS.  They are located on the northwest side of Chicago and will meet all of your family's dental needs. Painting or remodeling?  Don't forget about our parnter Avid Co. Looking for a Vitamix blender?  Don't forget to use our coupon code 06-007296 for free shipping.

Cathy and Todd discuss Bruce Jenner and Janet Mock and why understanding transgender helps us expand our awareness about everything. They also discuss how a listener handled his child’s rage, and they answer a listener question about how to handle it when your kid won’t practice her instrument. Even more important, they share their full list of top 10 favorite movies – they might surprise you! Other Resources Parent/Daughter date night!!!  Next in  is our ZPR community screenings is a documentary called The Empowerment Project brought to you by Zen Parenting Radio and CCS.  This film documents ordinary women doing extraordinary things.  It's on Monday, May 18th @ York Theater in Elmhurst.  Click here for tickets. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JTIogIwn8U0 Cathy's 3rd book, Living What You Want Your Kids To Learn- The POWER of Self-Aware Parenting, is now on sale! Go here to order your book. Click the following links to purchase Cathy's books The Self-Aware Parent Part 1  & and Part 2 Click here to find her blog, and click here to find her Chicago Parent column. Todd has a few spots opening for his Men's Group.  Email me @ comments@zenparentingradio.com Tree of Life Chiropractic Care have some interesting workshops planned.  An outline can be found here. If you shop Amazon by going through our website first (there is an amazon link on the bottom right hand of our home page), a portion of your sale will help fund our Be U program.  Thanks for supporting us! Check out our new website & be sure to sign up to get all new podcast sent direct to your inbox @ ZPR. We would love to hear any comments from the show by sending us an email @ comments@zenparentingradio.com You can be sure to hear more by liking our Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/ZenParenting How important is a good smile?  Just ask our new partner John J Kelly DDS.  They are located on the northwest side of Chicago and will meet all of your family's dental needs. Painting or remodeling?  Don't forget about our parnter Avid Co. Looking for a Vitamix blender?  Don't forget to use our coupon code 06-007296 for free shipping.

Cathy and Todd discuss Bill Maher’s take on Free-Range Parenting and question why we judge other parents decisions. When we judge ourselves less, we judge others less (and vice versa). They share their own judgment stories, Cathy’s last Chicago Parent column, and more of their top ten movies.

Cathy and Todd discuss Bill Maher’s take on Free-Range Parenting and question why we judge other parents decisions. When we judge ourselves less, we judge others less (and vice versa). They share their own judgment stories, Cathy’s last Chicago Parent column, and more of their top ten movies.

Todd and Cathy discuss the meaning of “behavior is neutral” and share a personal story about deescalating sibling rivalry. They also discuss mindfulness, Cheryl Strayed, and why the movie Best in Show is so brilliant.

Todd and Cathy discuss the meaning of “behavior is neutral” and share a personal story about deescalating sibling rivalry. They also discuss mindfulness, Cheryl Strayed, and why the movie Best in Show is so brilliant.