<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><?xml-stylesheet href="https://feeds.captivate.fm/style.xsl" type="text/xsl"?><rss xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" version="2.0" xmlns:googleplay="http://www.google.com/schemas/play-podcasts/1.0" xmlns:itunes="http://www.itunes.com/dtds/podcast-1.0.dtd" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:podcast="https://podcastindex.org/namespace/1.0"><channel><atom:link href="https://feeds.captivate.fm/parent-confidence-lab/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/><title><![CDATA[Parent Confidence Lab]]></title><podcast:guid>7445755c-f302-5ab7-99d6-a983b9e03840</podcast:guid><lastBuildDate>Wed, 16 Sep 2026 21:01:03 +0000</lastBuildDate><generator>Captivate.fm</generator><language><![CDATA[en]]></language><copyright><![CDATA[Copyright 2026 Hans Kullberg & Cristina Bernardo]]></copyright><managingEditor>Hans Kullberg &amp; Cristina Bernardo</managingEditor><itunes:summary><![CDATA[The Parent Confidence Lab is a podcast hosted by Hans Kullberg and Cristina Bernardo of Avocado Health.

We feature leaders across healthcare, public health, and advocacy who are improving outcomes for parents, children, and families.

Through real conversations, we explore what’s working, what’s not, and how we can better support parents at scale.]]></itunes:summary><image><url>https://artwork.captivate.fm/d26f1098-4cb7-4d9f-9fc9-b0180a97090c/COLORFUL-WITH-GREENBACKGOUND.png</url><title>Parent Confidence Lab</title><link><![CDATA[https://parent-confidence-lab.captivate.fm]]></link></image><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/d26f1098-4cb7-4d9f-9fc9-b0180a97090c/COLORFUL-WITH-GREENBACKGOUND.png"/><itunes:owner><itunes:name>Hans Kullberg &amp; Cristina Bernardo</itunes:name></itunes:owner><itunes:author>Hans Kullberg &amp; Cristina Bernardo</itunes:author><description>The Parent Confidence Lab is a podcast hosted by Hans Kullberg and Cristina Bernardo of Avocado Health.

We feature leaders across healthcare, public health, and advocacy who are improving outcomes for parents, children, and families.

Through real conversations, we explore what’s working, what’s not, and how we can better support parents at scale.</description><link>https://parent-confidence-lab.captivate.fm</link><atom:link href="https://pubsubhubbub.appspot.com" rel="hub"/><itunes:subtitle><![CDATA[Exploring What Actually Works for Parents and Children]]></itunes:subtitle><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:type>episodic</itunes:type><itunes:category text="Kids &amp; Family"><itunes:category text="Parenting"/></itunes:category><itunes:category text="Health &amp; Fitness"></itunes:category><itunes:category text="Education"></itunes:category><podcast:locked>no</podcast:locked><podcast:medium>podcast</podcast:medium><item><title>&quot;How to have &quot;The Talk&quot; with Your Kids: Sex, Porn &amp; Body Image, and more valuable tips with Nurse Netty&quot;</title><itunes:title>&quot;How to have &quot;The Talk&quot; with Your Kids: Sex, Porn &amp; Body Image, and more valuable tips with Nurse Netty&quot;</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<h3>Episode Summary:</h3><p>Some of the most important conversations parents have with their children can also be the hardest to start. In this episode of <strong>Parent Confidence Lab</strong>, <strong>Hans and Cristina </strong>sit down with <strong>Dr</strong>. <strong>Annette Dunn, known as Nurse Netty</strong>, to explore how parents can build open, trusting communication with their children around puberty, sex education, healthy relationships, peer pressure, social media, pornography, and other challenging topics.</p><p>Drawing from her experience as a <strong>nurse, school nurse, and educator</strong>, Nurse Netty shares why these conversations shouldn't be treated as a single "talk." Instead, parents can create an ongoing environment where children feel safe asking questions, sharing mistakes, and seeking guidance without fear of judgment. She introduces her <strong>SECURE method</strong>, a practical framework that helps parents approach difficult conversations with greater calm, curiosity, understanding, relatability, and empathy.</p><p>The conversation also explores how parents can approach social media, phones, screen time, and pornography without relying solely on rules and lectures. Nurse Netty encourages families to establish clear agreements, discuss family and personal values, set short- and long-term goals, and help children understand the reasons behind boundaries. Most importantly, she reminds parents that building trust early can create a relationship children can rely on throughout adolescence and into adulthood.</p><h2><strong>What You'll Learn</strong></h2><ul><li>Why difficult conversations should begin early and continue throughout childhood</li><li>How parents' own upbringing can influence their comfort level with sensitive conversations</li><li>Why lecturing and relying on "don't do this" can sometimes push children away</li><li>How the SECURE method can help parents approach difficult conversations</li><li>How curiosity and active listening can strengthen parent-child relationships</li><li>Why children need to feel safe sharing mistakes without fear of judgment</li><li>How to talk with children about puberty, sex education, and healthy relationships</li><li>Practical ways to discuss social media, body image, and peer pressure</li><li>Why family agreements can make phone and screen-time boundaries easier to manage</li><li>How parents can prepare children for potential exposure to pornography</li><li>Why family and personal values can help children make healthier decisions</li><li>How short- and long-term goals can help children think beyond immediate pressure</li><li>Why parents should communicate and compromise before addressing difficult issues with their children</li><li>How consistent, judgment-free communication can build lifelong trust and confidence</li></ul><br/><h2><strong>About Dr. Annette Dunn (Nurse Netty)</strong></h2><p><strong>Annette Dunn, known as Nurse Netty</strong>, is a nurse, school nurse, educator, and parenting communication expert who helps parents have meaningful conversations with their children about sensitive and important topics. Her work focuses on strengthening parent-child communication around puberty, sex education, healthy relationships, peer pressure, social media, pornography, and more.</p><p>Through classes, digital resources, and practical tools, Nurse Netty helps parents feel more prepared and confident having these conversations while creating a safe and supportive environment where children can ask questions, share experiences, and seek guidance.</p><h2><strong>Connect with Dr. Annette Dunn (Nurse Netty)</strong></h2><ul><li>Website:<a href="https://nursenetty.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://nursenetty.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://nursenetty.com/</a></u></li><li>LinkedIn:<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/castillosensitivesolutions/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/castillosensitivesolutions/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">linkedin.com/in/castillosensitivesolutions</a></u></li></ul><br/><h2><strong>Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></h2><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health</strong>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</p><p>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox.</p><p><strong>Sign up here:</strong><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></u></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<h3>Episode Summary:</h3><p>Some of the most important conversations parents have with their children can also be the hardest to start. In this episode of <strong>Parent Confidence Lab</strong>, <strong>Hans and Cristina </strong>sit down with <strong>Dr</strong>. <strong>Annette Dunn, known as Nurse Netty</strong>, to explore how parents can build open, trusting communication with their children around puberty, sex education, healthy relationships, peer pressure, social media, pornography, and other challenging topics.</p><p>Drawing from her experience as a <strong>nurse, school nurse, and educator</strong>, Nurse Netty shares why these conversations shouldn't be treated as a single "talk." Instead, parents can create an ongoing environment where children feel safe asking questions, sharing mistakes, and seeking guidance without fear of judgment. She introduces her <strong>SECURE method</strong>, a practical framework that helps parents approach difficult conversations with greater calm, curiosity, understanding, relatability, and empathy.</p><p>The conversation also explores how parents can approach social media, phones, screen time, and pornography without relying solely on rules and lectures. Nurse Netty encourages families to establish clear agreements, discuss family and personal values, set short- and long-term goals, and help children understand the reasons behind boundaries. Most importantly, she reminds parents that building trust early can create a relationship children can rely on throughout adolescence and into adulthood.</p><h2><strong>What You'll Learn</strong></h2><ul><li>Why difficult conversations should begin early and continue throughout childhood</li><li>How parents' own upbringing can influence their comfort level with sensitive conversations</li><li>Why lecturing and relying on "don't do this" can sometimes push children away</li><li>How the SECURE method can help parents approach difficult conversations</li><li>How curiosity and active listening can strengthen parent-child relationships</li><li>Why children need to feel safe sharing mistakes without fear of judgment</li><li>How to talk with children about puberty, sex education, and healthy relationships</li><li>Practical ways to discuss social media, body image, and peer pressure</li><li>Why family agreements can make phone and screen-time boundaries easier to manage</li><li>How parents can prepare children for potential exposure to pornography</li><li>Why family and personal values can help children make healthier decisions</li><li>How short- and long-term goals can help children think beyond immediate pressure</li><li>Why parents should communicate and compromise before addressing difficult issues with their children</li><li>How consistent, judgment-free communication can build lifelong trust and confidence</li></ul><br/><h2><strong>About Dr. Annette Dunn (Nurse Netty)</strong></h2><p><strong>Annette Dunn, known as Nurse Netty</strong>, is a nurse, school nurse, educator, and parenting communication expert who helps parents have meaningful conversations with their children about sensitive and important topics. Her work focuses on strengthening parent-child communication around puberty, sex education, healthy relationships, peer pressure, social media, pornography, and more.</p><p>Through classes, digital resources, and practical tools, Nurse Netty helps parents feel more prepared and confident having these conversations while creating a safe and supportive environment where children can ask questions, share experiences, and seek guidance.</p><h2><strong>Connect with Dr. Annette Dunn (Nurse Netty)</strong></h2><ul><li>Website:<a href="https://nursenetty.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://nursenetty.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://nursenetty.com/</a></u></li><li>LinkedIn:<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/castillosensitivesolutions/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/castillosensitivesolutions/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">linkedin.com/in/castillosensitivesolutions</a></u></li></ul><br/><h2><strong>Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></h2><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health</strong>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</p><p>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox.</p><p><strong>Sign up here:</strong><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></u></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://parent-confidence-lab.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">c4703ce6-edfe-4098-958f-eef5a2a90eaa</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/d26f1098-4cb7-4d9f-9fc9-b0180a97090c/COLORFUL-WITH-GREENBACKGOUND.png"/><pubDate>Tue, 15 Sep 2026 05:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/c4703ce6-edfe-4098-958f-eef5a2a90eaa.mp3" length="49312964" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>51:22</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>How to Navigate Type 1 Diabetes with confidence, Advocacy, and Support with Dr. Jennifer McVean</title><itunes:title>How to Navigate Type 1 Diabetes with confidence, Advocacy, and Support with Dr. Jennifer McVean</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<h2><strong>Episode Summary</strong></h2><p>In this episode of <strong>Parent Confidence Lab</strong>, Hans and Christina sit down with <strong>Dr. Jennifer McVean</strong>, a board-certified pediatric endocrinologist and someone who has lived with type 1 diabetes since childhood, to discuss what families need to know when a child is diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.</p><p>Dr. McVean shares her personal journey of being diagnosed at age 11 and how being excluded from activities like sleepovers and a school ski trip inspired her to become a pediatric endocrinologist. She explains the warning signs parents should watch for, the realities of managing insulin and glucose levels, and why type 1 diabetes is often an <strong>“invisible disease”</strong> because so much of the daily burden happens behind the scenes.</p><p>The conversation also explores diabetes burnout, supporting children as they become more independent, reducing stigma, working with schools and coaches, and building a strong support network. Dr. McVean emphasizes that type 1 diabetes does not define a child and that, with the right support, children can continue participating in the activities and experiences they love.</p><p>She also discusses advances in diabetes technology, automated insulin delivery, early detection, and the research giving families hope for the future.</p><h2><strong>Key Takeaways:</strong></h2><ul><li>Parents should recognize warning signs of type 1 diabetes, including <strong>increased thirst, frequent urination, and unexplained weight loss</strong>, and seek medical care promptly.</li><li>Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that requires insulin and ongoing glucose management.</li><li>Much of the burden of diabetes is invisible, including the constant planning around food, exercise, school activities, and social events.</li><li>Parents should <strong>advocate for their children</strong> and ask questions when something does not seem right.</li><li>Children with type 1 diabetes should not be excluded from sleepovers, birthday parties, sports, school trips, or other activities.</li><li>Building a <strong>village of support</strong> can help families manage the demands of diabetes and reduce parental burnout.</li><li>Diabetes should be treated as <strong>a part of a child's life—not the child's identity</strong>.</li><li>Mental health support can be an important part of diabetes care, particularly when children or teenagers experience stigma or diabetes burnout.</li><li>Schools, teachers, coaches, grandparents, and other caregivers can become effective members of a child's support system through education and communication.</li><li>Advances in continuous glucose monitoring and automated insulin delivery are helping reduce some of the daily burden of diabetes management.</li><li>Dr. McVean encourages families to remain hopeful: children living with type 1 diabetes can grow up to pursue their goals, careers, relationships, and families.</li></ul><br/><h2><strong>About Dr. Jennifer McVean</strong></h2><p>Dr. Jennifer McVean is a board-certified pediatric endocrinologist who brings both professional expertise and personal experience to caring for children and families affected by type 1 diabetes. Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes herself at age 11, she went on to pursue a career in pediatric endocrinology with a particular focus on helping children live full, active lives despite their diagnosis.</p><p>She earned her medical degree from the <strong>University of Minnesota Medical School</strong>, completed her pediatric residency at the <strong>University of Colorado</strong>, and completed a fellowship in pediatric endocrinology at the <strong>University of Wisconsin</strong>.</p><h2><strong>Connect with Dr. Jennifer McVean</strong></h2><ul><li>LinkedIn:<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/melinda-macht-greenberg-phd-6692a08/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-mcvean-md-087a8313b/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">linkedin.com/in/jennifer-mcvean-md-087a8313b</a></li></ul><br/><h2><strong>Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></h2><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health</strong>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</p><p>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox.</p><p><strong>Sign up here:</strong><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></u></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2><strong>Episode Summary</strong></h2><p>In this episode of <strong>Parent Confidence Lab</strong>, Hans and Christina sit down with <strong>Dr. Jennifer McVean</strong>, a board-certified pediatric endocrinologist and someone who has lived with type 1 diabetes since childhood, to discuss what families need to know when a child is diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.</p><p>Dr. McVean shares her personal journey of being diagnosed at age 11 and how being excluded from activities like sleepovers and a school ski trip inspired her to become a pediatric endocrinologist. She explains the warning signs parents should watch for, the realities of managing insulin and glucose levels, and why type 1 diabetes is often an <strong>“invisible disease”</strong> because so much of the daily burden happens behind the scenes.</p><p>The conversation also explores diabetes burnout, supporting children as they become more independent, reducing stigma, working with schools and coaches, and building a strong support network. Dr. McVean emphasizes that type 1 diabetes does not define a child and that, with the right support, children can continue participating in the activities and experiences they love.</p><p>She also discusses advances in diabetes technology, automated insulin delivery, early detection, and the research giving families hope for the future.</p><h2><strong>Key Takeaways:</strong></h2><ul><li>Parents should recognize warning signs of type 1 diabetes, including <strong>increased thirst, frequent urination, and unexplained weight loss</strong>, and seek medical care promptly.</li><li>Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that requires insulin and ongoing glucose management.</li><li>Much of the burden of diabetes is invisible, including the constant planning around food, exercise, school activities, and social events.</li><li>Parents should <strong>advocate for their children</strong> and ask questions when something does not seem right.</li><li>Children with type 1 diabetes should not be excluded from sleepovers, birthday parties, sports, school trips, or other activities.</li><li>Building a <strong>village of support</strong> can help families manage the demands of diabetes and reduce parental burnout.</li><li>Diabetes should be treated as <strong>a part of a child's life—not the child's identity</strong>.</li><li>Mental health support can be an important part of diabetes care, particularly when children or teenagers experience stigma or diabetes burnout.</li><li>Schools, teachers, coaches, grandparents, and other caregivers can become effective members of a child's support system through education and communication.</li><li>Advances in continuous glucose monitoring and automated insulin delivery are helping reduce some of the daily burden of diabetes management.</li><li>Dr. McVean encourages families to remain hopeful: children living with type 1 diabetes can grow up to pursue their goals, careers, relationships, and families.</li></ul><br/><h2><strong>About Dr. Jennifer McVean</strong></h2><p>Dr. Jennifer McVean is a board-certified pediatric endocrinologist who brings both professional expertise and personal experience to caring for children and families affected by type 1 diabetes. Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes herself at age 11, she went on to pursue a career in pediatric endocrinology with a particular focus on helping children live full, active lives despite their diagnosis.</p><p>She earned her medical degree from the <strong>University of Minnesota Medical School</strong>, completed her pediatric residency at the <strong>University of Colorado</strong>, and completed a fellowship in pediatric endocrinology at the <strong>University of Wisconsin</strong>.</p><h2><strong>Connect with Dr. Jennifer McVean</strong></h2><ul><li>LinkedIn:<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/melinda-macht-greenberg-phd-6692a08/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-mcvean-md-087a8313b/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">linkedin.com/in/jennifer-mcvean-md-087a8313b</a></li></ul><br/><h2><strong>Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></h2><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health</strong>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</p><p>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox.</p><p><strong>Sign up here:</strong><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></u></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://parent-confidence-lab.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">a4d7e056-7ae8-44d9-98f3-1e8614972a59</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/d26f1098-4cb7-4d9f-9fc9-b0180a97090c/COLORFUL-WITH-GREENBACKGOUND.png"/><pubDate>Thu, 10 Sep 2026 05:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/a4d7e056-7ae8-44d9-98f3-1e8614972a59.mp3" length="44463801" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>46:19</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Building Confidence, Belonging, and Life Skills Through Skiing and Mentorship with Seth Ehrlich</title><itunes:title>Building Confidence, Belonging, and Life Skills Through Skiing and Mentorship with Seth Ehrlich</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<h3><strong>Episode Summary:</strong></h3><p>Building confidence and meaningful relationships with children doesn't require expensive activities or elaborate adventures. In this episode of <strong>Parent Confidence Lab</strong>, Hans and Cristina sit down with <strong>Seth Ehrlich</strong>, Chief Executive Officer of <strong>SOS Outreach</strong>, to explore how shared experiences, mentorship, outdoor activities, and a strong sense of belonging can help children develop confidence, resilience, leadership skills, and a belief in their own potential.</p><p>Drawing from his own lifelong connection to skiing and his work with SOS Outreach, Seth explains how shared activities create opportunities for genuine connection. SOS Outreach works with young people from fourth grade through high school graduation, using skiing and snowboarding as a foundation for mentoring, service learning, leadership development, and personal growth. The program also creates access to outdoor experiences for children who may not otherwise have the opportunity to participate.</p><p>The conversation explores SOS Outreach's long-term mentorship model, including its <strong>Circle of Love</strong>, core values, service projects, and junior mentor program. Seth shares how giving young people opportunities to lead, serve their communities, and mentor others can strengthen confidence and help them recognize that they belong and are capable of pursuing opportunities they may have never imagined.</p><p>Seth also offers practical advice for parents, emphasizing that meaningful connection can happen anywhere. Whether it's skiing, biking, walking, playing on the playground, or simply joining children in activities they enjoy, shared experiences can create lasting memories and strengthen family relationships. He also reflects on his own fatherhood journey and the importance of intentionally making time to connect with children while they are young.</p><h2><strong>What You'll Learn</strong></h2><ul><li>Why shared experiences can create stronger parent-child connections</li><li>How outdoor activities can help children build confidence and belonging</li><li>Why talent and potential may be universal while opportunity is not</li><li>How SOS Outreach gives young people access to skiing and snowboarding</li><li>How mentorship helps children develop confidence, leadership, and agency</li><li>Why a sense of belonging is an important part of personal growth</li><li>How the <strong>Circle of Love</strong> creates connection and inclusion</li><li>Why long-term mentorship benefits both mentors and mentees</li><li>How older students can become mentors and leaders for younger children</li><li>How service learning helps young people make an impact in their communities</li><li>Why spending time outdoors can provide connection and a break from screens</li><li>How parents can connect with children through the activities they already enjoy</li><li>Why shared experiences don't have to be expensive or complicated</li><li>How intentionally scheduled family time can create lasting memories</li><li>Why being present and participating with your children can matter more than simply watching them</li></ul><br/><h2><strong>About Seth Ehrlich</strong></h2><p>Seth Ehrlich is the <strong>Chief Executive Officer of SOS Outreach</strong>, a youth development organization that uses skiing, snowboarding, mentorship, service learning, and leadership development to help young people reach their full potential.</p><p>Originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Seth developed a passion for skiing at an early age. After earning a graduate degree in nonprofit management, he and his wife moved to Colorado for hospitality work. Through a volunteer program at his hotel, Seth connected with <strong>SOS Outreach</strong> and went on to grow through multiple roles within the organization.</p><p>Today, Seth focuses on building connections that enhance SOS Outreach's impact. He is also a father of two, and his own experiences skiing with his father and children have shaped his belief in the power of shared experiences, relationships, and connection.</p><h2><strong>Connect with Seth Ehrlich</strong></h2><ul><li>Website:<a href="https://sosoutreach.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://sosoutreach.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://sosoutreach.org/</a></u></li><li>LinkedIn:<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethehrlich/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethehrlich/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">linkedin.com/in/sethehrlich</a></u></li></ul><br/><h2><strong>Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></h2><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health</strong>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</p><p>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox.</p><p><strong>Sign up here:</strong><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></u></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<h3><strong>Episode Summary:</strong></h3><p>Building confidence and meaningful relationships with children doesn't require expensive activities or elaborate adventures. In this episode of <strong>Parent Confidence Lab</strong>, Hans and Cristina sit down with <strong>Seth Ehrlich</strong>, Chief Executive Officer of <strong>SOS Outreach</strong>, to explore how shared experiences, mentorship, outdoor activities, and a strong sense of belonging can help children develop confidence, resilience, leadership skills, and a belief in their own potential.</p><p>Drawing from his own lifelong connection to skiing and his work with SOS Outreach, Seth explains how shared activities create opportunities for genuine connection. SOS Outreach works with young people from fourth grade through high school graduation, using skiing and snowboarding as a foundation for mentoring, service learning, leadership development, and personal growth. The program also creates access to outdoor experiences for children who may not otherwise have the opportunity to participate.</p><p>The conversation explores SOS Outreach's long-term mentorship model, including its <strong>Circle of Love</strong>, core values, service projects, and junior mentor program. Seth shares how giving young people opportunities to lead, serve their communities, and mentor others can strengthen confidence and help them recognize that they belong and are capable of pursuing opportunities they may have never imagined.</p><p>Seth also offers practical advice for parents, emphasizing that meaningful connection can happen anywhere. Whether it's skiing, biking, walking, playing on the playground, or simply joining children in activities they enjoy, shared experiences can create lasting memories and strengthen family relationships. He also reflects on his own fatherhood journey and the importance of intentionally making time to connect with children while they are young.</p><h2><strong>What You'll Learn</strong></h2><ul><li>Why shared experiences can create stronger parent-child connections</li><li>How outdoor activities can help children build confidence and belonging</li><li>Why talent and potential may be universal while opportunity is not</li><li>How SOS Outreach gives young people access to skiing and snowboarding</li><li>How mentorship helps children develop confidence, leadership, and agency</li><li>Why a sense of belonging is an important part of personal growth</li><li>How the <strong>Circle of Love</strong> creates connection and inclusion</li><li>Why long-term mentorship benefits both mentors and mentees</li><li>How older students can become mentors and leaders for younger children</li><li>How service learning helps young people make an impact in their communities</li><li>Why spending time outdoors can provide connection and a break from screens</li><li>How parents can connect with children through the activities they already enjoy</li><li>Why shared experiences don't have to be expensive or complicated</li><li>How intentionally scheduled family time can create lasting memories</li><li>Why being present and participating with your children can matter more than simply watching them</li></ul><br/><h2><strong>About Seth Ehrlich</strong></h2><p>Seth Ehrlich is the <strong>Chief Executive Officer of SOS Outreach</strong>, a youth development organization that uses skiing, snowboarding, mentorship, service learning, and leadership development to help young people reach their full potential.</p><p>Originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Seth developed a passion for skiing at an early age. After earning a graduate degree in nonprofit management, he and his wife moved to Colorado for hospitality work. Through a volunteer program at his hotel, Seth connected with <strong>SOS Outreach</strong> and went on to grow through multiple roles within the organization.</p><p>Today, Seth focuses on building connections that enhance SOS Outreach's impact. He is also a father of two, and his own experiences skiing with his father and children have shaped his belief in the power of shared experiences, relationships, and connection.</p><h2><strong>Connect with Seth Ehrlich</strong></h2><ul><li>Website:<a href="https://sosoutreach.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://sosoutreach.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://sosoutreach.org/</a></u></li><li>LinkedIn:<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethehrlich/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethehrlich/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">linkedin.com/in/sethehrlich</a></u></li></ul><br/><h2><strong>Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></h2><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health</strong>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</p><p>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox.</p><p><strong>Sign up here:</strong><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></u></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://parent-confidence-lab.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">0051f2ed-a4af-4650-a687-6007c2e8e9fe</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/d26f1098-4cb7-4d9f-9fc9-b0180a97090c/COLORFUL-WITH-GREENBACKGOUND.png"/><pubDate>Tue, 08 Sep 2026 05:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/0051f2ed-a4af-4650-a687-6007c2e8e9fe.mp3" length="41587406" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>43:19</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Helping Families Navigate Healthcare, Benefits, and Access to Care with Michael Lee and Julie McCormack</title><itunes:title>Helping Families Navigate Healthcare, Benefits, and Access to Care with Michael Lee and Julie McCormack</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<h3><strong>Episode Summary:</strong></h3><p>Access to healthcare involves far more than what happens inside a doctor's office. In this episode of <strong>Parent Confidence Lab</strong>, Hans and Cristina sit down with <strong>Michael Lee</strong> and <strong>Julie McCormack</strong> to explore how healthcare, legal advocacy, and community partnerships can help families overcome barriers to care, public benefits, food assistance, housing, and other essential services.</p><p><strong>Michael Lee</strong> brings a healthcare perspective to the conversation, discussing how factors such as housing, food insecurity, education, employment, and access to benefits can directly affect children's health and family well-being. He explains why healthcare providers need to look beyond medical treatment and understand the broader challenges families face.</p><p><strong>Julie McCormack</strong> shares her perspective on legal advocacy and helping families navigate complicated systems and access the benefits and services available to them. Together, Michael and Julie explain how collaboration between healthcare providers, legal professionals, government agencies, and community organizations can create better outcomes for families.</p><p>The conversation also explores Medicaid and MassHealth, food assistance, administrative barriers, and practical ways parents can find support. Michael and Julie emphasize that asking for help is not something families should feel ashamed of—and that knowing where to turn can make a meaningful difference.</p><h2><strong>What You'll Learn</strong></h2><ul><li>Why children's health is influenced by factors outside the doctor's office</li><li>How housing, food insecurity, education, and employment can affect family health</li><li>How healthcare and legal professionals can work together to support families</li><li>Why navigating public benefits can be challenging for parents</li><li>How legal advocacy can help families access important services</li><li>Why community organizations can be valuable resources for families</li><li>How Medicaid and MassHealth can affect children's access to care</li><li>How administrative barriers can add stress to already challenging situations</li><li>Practical ways parents can find help with healthcare, food, and other essential needs</li><li>Why parents should not feel ashamed to ask for assistance</li><li>How families can become stronger advocates for themselves and their children</li><li>Why collaboration between healthcare systems and community organizations matters</li></ul><br/><h2><strong>About Michael Lee</strong></h2><p><strong>Michael Lee</strong> is a healthcare leader whose work focuses on improving healthcare delivery, clinical integration, and access to care. His experience brings an important perspective to the conversation about how healthcare systems can better address the broader social and practical challenges affecting children and families.</p><p><strong>Connect with Michael Lee:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-lee-90631b10/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-lee-90631b10/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">linkedin.com/in/michael-lee-90631b10</a></u></li></ul><br/><h2><strong>About Julie McCormack</strong></h2><p><strong>Julie McCormack</strong> works in legal advocacy and family support, helping people navigate complex systems and access benefits and services. Her work highlights the important connection between legal support, healthcare, and community resources when families face barriers to care.</p><p><strong>Connect with Julie McCormack:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliemccormack/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliemccormack/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">linkedin.com/in/juliemccormack</a></u></li></ul><br/><h2><strong>Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></h2><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health</strong>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</p><p>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox.</p><p><strong>Sign up here:</strong><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></u></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<h3><strong>Episode Summary:</strong></h3><p>Access to healthcare involves far more than what happens inside a doctor's office. In this episode of <strong>Parent Confidence Lab</strong>, Hans and Cristina sit down with <strong>Michael Lee</strong> and <strong>Julie McCormack</strong> to explore how healthcare, legal advocacy, and community partnerships can help families overcome barriers to care, public benefits, food assistance, housing, and other essential services.</p><p><strong>Michael Lee</strong> brings a healthcare perspective to the conversation, discussing how factors such as housing, food insecurity, education, employment, and access to benefits can directly affect children's health and family well-being. He explains why healthcare providers need to look beyond medical treatment and understand the broader challenges families face.</p><p><strong>Julie McCormack</strong> shares her perspective on legal advocacy and helping families navigate complicated systems and access the benefits and services available to them. Together, Michael and Julie explain how collaboration between healthcare providers, legal professionals, government agencies, and community organizations can create better outcomes for families.</p><p>The conversation also explores Medicaid and MassHealth, food assistance, administrative barriers, and practical ways parents can find support. Michael and Julie emphasize that asking for help is not something families should feel ashamed of—and that knowing where to turn can make a meaningful difference.</p><h2><strong>What You'll Learn</strong></h2><ul><li>Why children's health is influenced by factors outside the doctor's office</li><li>How housing, food insecurity, education, and employment can affect family health</li><li>How healthcare and legal professionals can work together to support families</li><li>Why navigating public benefits can be challenging for parents</li><li>How legal advocacy can help families access important services</li><li>Why community organizations can be valuable resources for families</li><li>How Medicaid and MassHealth can affect children's access to care</li><li>How administrative barriers can add stress to already challenging situations</li><li>Practical ways parents can find help with healthcare, food, and other essential needs</li><li>Why parents should not feel ashamed to ask for assistance</li><li>How families can become stronger advocates for themselves and their children</li><li>Why collaboration between healthcare systems and community organizations matters</li></ul><br/><h2><strong>About Michael Lee</strong></h2><p><strong>Michael Lee</strong> is a healthcare leader whose work focuses on improving healthcare delivery, clinical integration, and access to care. His experience brings an important perspective to the conversation about how healthcare systems can better address the broader social and practical challenges affecting children and families.</p><p><strong>Connect with Michael Lee:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-lee-90631b10/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-lee-90631b10/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">linkedin.com/in/michael-lee-90631b10</a></u></li></ul><br/><h2><strong>About Julie McCormack</strong></h2><p><strong>Julie McCormack</strong> works in legal advocacy and family support, helping people navigate complex systems and access benefits and services. Her work highlights the important connection between legal support, healthcare, and community resources when families face barriers to care.</p><p><strong>Connect with Julie McCormack:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliemccormack/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliemccormack/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">linkedin.com/in/juliemccormack</a></u></li></ul><br/><h2><strong>Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></h2><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health</strong>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</p><p>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox.</p><p><strong>Sign up here:</strong><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></u></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://parent-confidence-lab.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">9a63a289-73f1-4403-91b9-6ecc86f6f138</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/c0455290-1c8a-4c6e-a93a-3bb0fe160289/Michael-Julie-Thumbnail.png"/><pubDate>Thu, 03 Sep 2026 05:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/9a63a289-73f1-4403-91b9-6ecc86f6f138.mp3" length="39478802" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>41:07</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>How parents Build Children&apos;s Emotional Resilience Through Play with Dr. Melinda Macht-Greenberg</title><itunes:title>How parents Build Children&apos;s Emotional Resilience Through Play with Dr. Melinda Macht-Greenberg</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<h3><strong>Episode Summary:</strong></h3><p>Play is more than entertainment. It is one of the most important ways children learn, communicate, manage emotions, and build relationships. In this episode of <strong>Parent Confidence Lab</strong>, Hans and Cristina sit down with <strong>Melinda Macht-Greenberg, PhD</strong>, Licensed Psychologist and Tufts University faculty member, to explore how parents can use everyday play to support children's emotional, social, and cognitive development. Melinda has more than 30 years of experience as a Clinical, Developmental, and School Psychologist, working with children, families, schools, and educators. (<u><a href="https://www.educationalconsultingpc.com/about?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">educationalconsultingpc.com</a></u>)</p><p>Melinda explains how play gives children opportunities to practice frustration tolerance, turn-taking, communication, problem-solving, creativity, and emotional regulation. She shares practical ways parents can incorporate play into everyday routines without needing expensive toys or large amounts of dedicated time—from turning laundry and cooking into playful experiences to using boxes, containers, and other household items to encourage imagination.</p><p>The conversation also explores how parents can help children handle losing, disappointment, conflict, and big emotions. Melinda discusses the importance of modeling emotional regulation, previewing challenging situations, allowing children to experience frustration without immediately fixing it, and using curiosity rather than assumptions when talking about children's feelings. She also explains how play can support emotional processing and how "serve and return" interactions help build early communication, language, and social skills.</p><h2><strong>What You'll Learn</strong></h2><ul><li>Why play is essential for children's emotional, social, and cognitive development</li><li>How parents can use play to help children practice frustration tolerance</li><li>Why modeling your own emotional regulation teaches children how to manage theirs</li><li>How everyday activities like cooking and laundry can become playful learning opportunities</li><li>Why children don't need expensive or specialized toys to develop creativity and imagination</li><li>How symbolic play supports skills children later use for reading and writing</li><li>How play can help children process emotions and prepare for major life changes</li><li>Why parents should stay curious instead of assuming they know exactly how their children feel</li><li>How to help children work through conflict and develop problem-solving skills</li><li>Why waiting, disappointment, and frustration are important experiences for children to learn to tolerate</li><li>How previewing difficult situations can help children prepare emotionally</li><li>How serve-and-return interactions build communication, language, and social skills</li><li>Why parents should trust their instincts and recognize that they are experts on their own children</li></ul><br/><h2><strong>About Melinda Macht-Greenberg, PhD</strong></h2><p><strong>Melinda Macht-Greenberg, PhD</strong> is a <strong>Licensed Psychologist</strong> and Clinical, Developmental, and School Psychologist with more than 30 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families. She provides therapy, psychological and educational evaluations, parent-focused intervention, and educational consultation. (<u><a href="https://www.educationalconsultingpc.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">educationalconsultingpc.com</a></u>)</p><p>Melinda is a faculty member in the <strong>Eliot-Pearson Department of Child Study and Human Development at Tufts University</strong>, where she teaches and mentors students and conducts research related to child development, assessment, and special education. She also works with schools and families to support children's educational, psychological, and developmental needs. (<u><a href="https://as.tufts.edu/epcshd/people/faculty/melinda-macht-greenberg?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Tufts Arts and Sciences</a></u>)</p><p>Through <strong>Macht-Greenberg Consulting Services</strong>, Melinda provides evaluations, therapy, parent-focused intervention, educational and school consultation, workshops, and staff training focused on improving the mental health and well-being of children, adolescents, and families. (<u><a href="https://www.educationalconsultingpc.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">educationalconsultingpc.com</a></u>)</p><h2><strong>Connect with Melinda Macht-Greenberg, PhD</strong></h2><ul><li>Website:<a href="https://www.educationalconsultingpc.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://www.educationalconsultingpc.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">educationalconsultingpc.com</a></u></li><li>LinkedIn:<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/melinda-macht-greenberg-phd-6692a08/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/melinda-macht-greenberg-phd-6692a08/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">linkedin.com/in/melinda-macht-greenberg-phd-6692a08</a></u></li><li>Instagram: <strong>@Dr.MelindaMG</strong> (<u><a href="https://www.educationalconsultingpc.com/contact?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">educationalconsultingpc.com</a></u>)</li></ul><br/><h2><strong>Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></h2><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health</strong>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</p><p>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox.</p><p><strong>Sign up here:</strong><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></u></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<h3><strong>Episode Summary:</strong></h3><p>Play is more than entertainment. It is one of the most important ways children learn, communicate, manage emotions, and build relationships. In this episode of <strong>Parent Confidence Lab</strong>, Hans and Cristina sit down with <strong>Melinda Macht-Greenberg, PhD</strong>, Licensed Psychologist and Tufts University faculty member, to explore how parents can use everyday play to support children's emotional, social, and cognitive development. Melinda has more than 30 years of experience as a Clinical, Developmental, and School Psychologist, working with children, families, schools, and educators. (<u><a href="https://www.educationalconsultingpc.com/about?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">educationalconsultingpc.com</a></u>)</p><p>Melinda explains how play gives children opportunities to practice frustration tolerance, turn-taking, communication, problem-solving, creativity, and emotional regulation. She shares practical ways parents can incorporate play into everyday routines without needing expensive toys or large amounts of dedicated time—from turning laundry and cooking into playful experiences to using boxes, containers, and other household items to encourage imagination.</p><p>The conversation also explores how parents can help children handle losing, disappointment, conflict, and big emotions. Melinda discusses the importance of modeling emotional regulation, previewing challenging situations, allowing children to experience frustration without immediately fixing it, and using curiosity rather than assumptions when talking about children's feelings. She also explains how play can support emotional processing and how "serve and return" interactions help build early communication, language, and social skills.</p><h2><strong>What You'll Learn</strong></h2><ul><li>Why play is essential for children's emotional, social, and cognitive development</li><li>How parents can use play to help children practice frustration tolerance</li><li>Why modeling your own emotional regulation teaches children how to manage theirs</li><li>How everyday activities like cooking and laundry can become playful learning opportunities</li><li>Why children don't need expensive or specialized toys to develop creativity and imagination</li><li>How symbolic play supports skills children later use for reading and writing</li><li>How play can help children process emotions and prepare for major life changes</li><li>Why parents should stay curious instead of assuming they know exactly how their children feel</li><li>How to help children work through conflict and develop problem-solving skills</li><li>Why waiting, disappointment, and frustration are important experiences for children to learn to tolerate</li><li>How previewing difficult situations can help children prepare emotionally</li><li>How serve-and-return interactions build communication, language, and social skills</li><li>Why parents should trust their instincts and recognize that they are experts on their own children</li></ul><br/><h2><strong>About Melinda Macht-Greenberg, PhD</strong></h2><p><strong>Melinda Macht-Greenberg, PhD</strong> is a <strong>Licensed Psychologist</strong> and Clinical, Developmental, and School Psychologist with more than 30 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families. She provides therapy, psychological and educational evaluations, parent-focused intervention, and educational consultation. (<u><a href="https://www.educationalconsultingpc.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">educationalconsultingpc.com</a></u>)</p><p>Melinda is a faculty member in the <strong>Eliot-Pearson Department of Child Study and Human Development at Tufts University</strong>, where she teaches and mentors students and conducts research related to child development, assessment, and special education. She also works with schools and families to support children's educational, psychological, and developmental needs. (<u><a href="https://as.tufts.edu/epcshd/people/faculty/melinda-macht-greenberg?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Tufts Arts and Sciences</a></u>)</p><p>Through <strong>Macht-Greenberg Consulting Services</strong>, Melinda provides evaluations, therapy, parent-focused intervention, educational and school consultation, workshops, and staff training focused on improving the mental health and well-being of children, adolescents, and families. (<u><a href="https://www.educationalconsultingpc.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">educationalconsultingpc.com</a></u>)</p><h2><strong>Connect with Melinda Macht-Greenberg, PhD</strong></h2><ul><li>Website:<a href="https://www.educationalconsultingpc.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://www.educationalconsultingpc.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">educationalconsultingpc.com</a></u></li><li>LinkedIn:<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/melinda-macht-greenberg-phd-6692a08/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/melinda-macht-greenberg-phd-6692a08/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">linkedin.com/in/melinda-macht-greenberg-phd-6692a08</a></u></li><li>Instagram: <strong>@Dr.MelindaMG</strong> (<u><a href="https://www.educationalconsultingpc.com/contact?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">educationalconsultingpc.com</a></u>)</li></ul><br/><h2><strong>Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></h2><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health</strong>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</p><p>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox.</p><p><strong>Sign up here:</strong><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></u></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://parent-confidence-lab.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">4aace7a6-b4b1-4753-a230-3a0a81de3fec</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/b8a7f641-ef88-40e3-9e8a-1e087761ee47/Dr-Melinda.png"/><pubDate>Tue, 01 Sep 2026 05:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/4aace7a6-b4b1-4753-a230-3a0a81de3fec.mp3" length="48321983" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>50:20</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Teaching Parents to Build Children&apos;s Coping Skills, Emotional Resilience, and Confidence with Abby Horton</title><itunes:title>Teaching Parents to Build Children&apos;s Coping Skills, Emotional Resilience, and Confidence with Abby Horton</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<h3><strong>Episode Summary:</strong></h3><p>Helping children navigate big emotions is one of the greatest challenges parents face. In this episode of <strong>Parent Confidence Lab</strong>, Hans and Cristina sit down with <strong>Abby Horton</strong>, Certified Child Life Specialist and founder of <strong>Little Lighthouses Child Life Services</strong>, to explore practical ways parents can teach healthy coping skills, build emotional resilience, and confidently support children through life's everyday challenges.</p><p>Drawing from more than a decade of experience helping children and families through medical procedures, trauma, and major life transitions, Abby explains why coping skills should be practiced long before stressful moments occur. She shares actionable strategies for co-regulation, creating calm-down spaces, modeling emotional expression, preparing children for transitions, and helping kids build resilience through everyday routines rather than perfection.</p><p>The conversation also tackles some of parenting's toughest moments, including navigating tantrums, choosing when to hold boundaries versus offering grace, helping children process disappointment, and understanding how parents' own emotional regulation shapes their children's ability to manage stress. Abby reminds parents that resilience isn't built by avoiding difficult emotions, but by walking through them together with compassion and consistency.</p><h2><strong>What You'll Learn</strong></h2><ul><li>Why coping skills should be practiced before stressful situations occur</li><li>How parents can co-regulate their children's emotions during difficult moments</li><li>Why crying is often a healthy form of emotional coping</li><li>Practical ways to teach deep breathing, visualization, and sensory regulation</li><li>How calm-down corners and coping toolkits support emotional development</li><li>Why preparation and predictable routines reduce anxiety and tantrums</li><li>How to balance boundaries with flexibility during emotional outbursts</li><li>Everyday strategies for building resilience and independence</li><li>Why modeling your own emotions helps children regulate theirs</li><li>How being present during difficult moments strengthens long-term confidence and trust</li></ul><br/><h2><strong>About Abby Horton</strong></h2><p>Abby Horton is a <strong>Certified Child Life Specialist</strong> with more than a decade of experience helping children and families navigate medical experiences, trauma, life transitions, and everyday parenting challenges. She is the founder of <strong>Little Lighthouses Child Life Services</strong>, where she provides practical guidance, emotional support, and evidence-based strategies that empower parents to confidently support their children's emotional well-being and development.</p><h2><strong>Connect with Abby Horton</strong></h2><ul><li>Website: <u><a href="https://www.littlelighthouseschildlife.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.littlelighthouseschildlife.com/</a></u></li><li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/abigail-horton-27012b61/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">linkedin.com/in/abigail-horton-27012b61</a></li><li>Instagram:<u><a href="https://www.instagram.com/littlelighthouseschildlife/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/littlelighthouseschildlife/</a></u></li></ul><br/><h2><strong>Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></h2><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health</strong>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</p><p>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox.</p><p><strong>Sign up here:</strong><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></u></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<h3><strong>Episode Summary:</strong></h3><p>Helping children navigate big emotions is one of the greatest challenges parents face. In this episode of <strong>Parent Confidence Lab</strong>, Hans and Cristina sit down with <strong>Abby Horton</strong>, Certified Child Life Specialist and founder of <strong>Little Lighthouses Child Life Services</strong>, to explore practical ways parents can teach healthy coping skills, build emotional resilience, and confidently support children through life's everyday challenges.</p><p>Drawing from more than a decade of experience helping children and families through medical procedures, trauma, and major life transitions, Abby explains why coping skills should be practiced long before stressful moments occur. She shares actionable strategies for co-regulation, creating calm-down spaces, modeling emotional expression, preparing children for transitions, and helping kids build resilience through everyday routines rather than perfection.</p><p>The conversation also tackles some of parenting's toughest moments, including navigating tantrums, choosing when to hold boundaries versus offering grace, helping children process disappointment, and understanding how parents' own emotional regulation shapes their children's ability to manage stress. Abby reminds parents that resilience isn't built by avoiding difficult emotions, but by walking through them together with compassion and consistency.</p><h2><strong>What You'll Learn</strong></h2><ul><li>Why coping skills should be practiced before stressful situations occur</li><li>How parents can co-regulate their children's emotions during difficult moments</li><li>Why crying is often a healthy form of emotional coping</li><li>Practical ways to teach deep breathing, visualization, and sensory regulation</li><li>How calm-down corners and coping toolkits support emotional development</li><li>Why preparation and predictable routines reduce anxiety and tantrums</li><li>How to balance boundaries with flexibility during emotional outbursts</li><li>Everyday strategies for building resilience and independence</li><li>Why modeling your own emotions helps children regulate theirs</li><li>How being present during difficult moments strengthens long-term confidence and trust</li></ul><br/><h2><strong>About Abby Horton</strong></h2><p>Abby Horton is a <strong>Certified Child Life Specialist</strong> with more than a decade of experience helping children and families navigate medical experiences, trauma, life transitions, and everyday parenting challenges. She is the founder of <strong>Little Lighthouses Child Life Services</strong>, where she provides practical guidance, emotional support, and evidence-based strategies that empower parents to confidently support their children's emotional well-being and development.</p><h2><strong>Connect with Abby Horton</strong></h2><ul><li>Website: <u><a href="https://www.littlelighthouseschildlife.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.littlelighthouseschildlife.com/</a></u></li><li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/abigail-horton-27012b61/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">linkedin.com/in/abigail-horton-27012b61</a></li><li>Instagram:<u><a href="https://www.instagram.com/littlelighthouseschildlife/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/littlelighthouseschildlife/</a></u></li></ul><br/><h2><strong>Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></h2><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health</strong>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</p><p>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox.</p><p><strong>Sign up here:</strong><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></u></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://parent-confidence-lab.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">255e6e49-b6e5-4839-816a-dcfb0e10c044</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/c940147f-7d23-4246-9816-e38c6b8858f4/Abby-Horton.png"/><pubDate>Tue, 25 Aug 2026 05:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/255e6e49-b6e5-4839-816a-dcfb0e10c044.mp3" length="31106244" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>32:24</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Navigating the Fourth Trimester, Strengthening Relationships, and Protecting Your Mental Health with Jennifer C. Williams</title><itunes:title>Navigating the Fourth Trimester, Strengthening Relationships, and Protecting Your Mental Health with Jennifer C. Williams</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<h3><strong>Episode Summary:</strong></h3><p>The weeks after bringing home a new baby can be some of the most joyful, and overwhelming, moments in a parent's life. In this episode of <strong>Parent Confidence Lab</strong>, Hans and Cristina welcome <strong>Jennifer C. Williams</strong>, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), Certified Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C) professional, Certified Parent Leave Coach, and founder of <strong>Pass GO! Therapy and Coaching</strong>, to discuss why the often-overlooked "fourth trimester" deserves just as much attention as pregnancy itself.</p><p>Drawing from nearly two decades of clinical experience supporting individuals, couples, and families, Jennifer explains how postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD, and other perinatal mental health conditions affect both mothers and fathers. She shares practical guidance for creating a postpartum plan, preparing couples for the emotional transition into parenthood, improving communication, setting healthy expectations with family members, and recognizing when professional support is needed.</p><p>The conversation also explores how parents can build stronger partnerships during one of life's biggest transitions, why giving yourself and your partner grace is essential, and how proactive mental health support can help families thrive long after the baby arrives. Jennifer also discusses her children's book, <em>If My Depression Had a Name</em>, and her mission to help children and parents better understand emotional wellness through compassionate storytelling. (<u><a href="https://passgolife.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pass Go! Therapy and Coaching</a></u>)</p><h2><strong>What You'll Learn</strong></h2><ul><li>What the "fourth trimester" is and why it matters for every family</li><li>The difference between baby blues and postpartum mood disorders</li><li>How postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD, and psychosis can affect new parents</li><li>Why fathers can also experience postpartum depression</li><li>How to build a practical postpartum plan before your baby arrives</li><li>Ways couples can communicate expectations before bringing baby home</li><li>Why giving your partner grace strengthens your relationship during postpartum</li><li>How grandparents and loved ones can provide meaningful support</li><li>Warning signs that indicate it's time to seek professional mental health care</li><li>Why early mental health support helps parents navigate major life transitions with confidence</li></ul><br/><h2><strong>About Jennifer C. Williams</strong></h2><p>Jennifer C. Williams, <strong>LCPC, PMH-C</strong>, is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Certified Perinatal Mental Health specialist, Certified Parent Leave Coach, and founder of <strong>Pass GO! Therapy and Coaching</strong>. With nearly 20 years of clinical experience, she helps individuals, couples, parents, and professionals regulate stress, strengthen relationships, and navigate life's biggest transitions through her proprietary <strong>Pass Go Regulation Method™</strong>. Jennifer is also trained in trauma treatment, the Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Intimacy From the Inside Out (IFIO) for couples. She is the author of the children's book <em>If My Depression Had a Name</em>, which helps children and families better understand depression and emotional wellness. (<u><a href="https://passgolife.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pass Go! Therapy and Coaching</a></u>).</p><h2><strong>Connect with Jennifer C. Williams</strong></h2><ul><li><strong>LinkedIn: </strong><u><a href="http://linkedin.com/in/jennifercwilliamsdc" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">linkedin.com/in/jennifercwilliamsdc</a></u></li><li><strong>Website: </strong><u><a href="http://passgolife.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">passgolife.com</a></u></li><li><strong>Relationship Quiz:</strong> <u><a href="http://quiz.passgolife.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">quiz.passgolife.com</a></u></li></ul><br/><h2><strong>Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></h2><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health</strong>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</p><p>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox.</p><p><strong>Sign up here:</strong><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></u></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<h3><strong>Episode Summary:</strong></h3><p>The weeks after bringing home a new baby can be some of the most joyful, and overwhelming, moments in a parent's life. In this episode of <strong>Parent Confidence Lab</strong>, Hans and Cristina welcome <strong>Jennifer C. Williams</strong>, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), Certified Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C) professional, Certified Parent Leave Coach, and founder of <strong>Pass GO! Therapy and Coaching</strong>, to discuss why the often-overlooked "fourth trimester" deserves just as much attention as pregnancy itself.</p><p>Drawing from nearly two decades of clinical experience supporting individuals, couples, and families, Jennifer explains how postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD, and other perinatal mental health conditions affect both mothers and fathers. She shares practical guidance for creating a postpartum plan, preparing couples for the emotional transition into parenthood, improving communication, setting healthy expectations with family members, and recognizing when professional support is needed.</p><p>The conversation also explores how parents can build stronger partnerships during one of life's biggest transitions, why giving yourself and your partner grace is essential, and how proactive mental health support can help families thrive long after the baby arrives. Jennifer also discusses her children's book, <em>If My Depression Had a Name</em>, and her mission to help children and parents better understand emotional wellness through compassionate storytelling. (<u><a href="https://passgolife.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pass Go! Therapy and Coaching</a></u>)</p><h2><strong>What You'll Learn</strong></h2><ul><li>What the "fourth trimester" is and why it matters for every family</li><li>The difference between baby blues and postpartum mood disorders</li><li>How postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD, and psychosis can affect new parents</li><li>Why fathers can also experience postpartum depression</li><li>How to build a practical postpartum plan before your baby arrives</li><li>Ways couples can communicate expectations before bringing baby home</li><li>Why giving your partner grace strengthens your relationship during postpartum</li><li>How grandparents and loved ones can provide meaningful support</li><li>Warning signs that indicate it's time to seek professional mental health care</li><li>Why early mental health support helps parents navigate major life transitions with confidence</li></ul><br/><h2><strong>About Jennifer C. Williams</strong></h2><p>Jennifer C. Williams, <strong>LCPC, PMH-C</strong>, is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Certified Perinatal Mental Health specialist, Certified Parent Leave Coach, and founder of <strong>Pass GO! Therapy and Coaching</strong>. With nearly 20 years of clinical experience, she helps individuals, couples, parents, and professionals regulate stress, strengthen relationships, and navigate life's biggest transitions through her proprietary <strong>Pass Go Regulation Method™</strong>. Jennifer is also trained in trauma treatment, the Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Intimacy From the Inside Out (IFIO) for couples. She is the author of the children's book <em>If My Depression Had a Name</em>, which helps children and families better understand depression and emotional wellness. (<u><a href="https://passgolife.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pass Go! Therapy and Coaching</a></u>).</p><h2><strong>Connect with Jennifer C. Williams</strong></h2><ul><li><strong>LinkedIn: </strong><u><a href="http://linkedin.com/in/jennifercwilliamsdc" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">linkedin.com/in/jennifercwilliamsdc</a></u></li><li><strong>Website: </strong><u><a href="http://passgolife.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">passgolife.com</a></u></li><li><strong>Relationship Quiz:</strong> <u><a href="http://quiz.passgolife.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">quiz.passgolife.com</a></u></li></ul><br/><h2><strong>Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></h2><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health</strong>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</p><p>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox.</p><p><strong>Sign up here:</strong><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></u></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://parent-confidence-lab.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">abad86ad-2f5b-44b2-a37f-42ead94471f6</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/70a37f65-46e0-43ba-8593-e48476a0fee6/J-williams.png"/><pubDate>Tue, 18 Aug 2026 05:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/abad86ad-2f5b-44b2-a37f-42ead94471f6.mp3" length="38385421" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>39:59</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Helping Parents Recognize Mental Health Early, Break Stigma, and Raise Emotionally Resilient Kids with Dr. Leena Khanzode</title><itunes:title>Helping Parents Recognize Mental Health Early, Break Stigma, and Raise Emotionally Resilient Kids with Dr. Leena Khanzode</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<h3><strong>Episode Summary:</strong></h3><p>Supporting children's mental health has never been more important, or more challenging. In this episode of <strong>Parent Confidence Lab</strong>, Hans and Cristina welcome <strong>Dr. Leena Khanzode</strong>, a board-certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist, founder of <strong>Silicon Valley Psychiatry</strong>, founder and Executive Director of the <strong>Taarika Foundation</strong>, and Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor at Stanford University School of Medicine, to discuss how parents can recognize mental health concerns early and confidently support their children's emotional well-being.</p><p>Drawing from both her professional expertise and deeply personal experience growing up with parents affected by bipolar disorder, Dr. Khanzode shares why early identification and intervention can dramatically improve a child's quality of life. She explains how anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic are affecting children at increasingly younger ages, and why education and awareness are essential for parents.</p><p>The conversation also explores practical strategies for recognizing early warning signs, reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness, navigating smartphones and social media, setting healthy technology boundaries, understanding the opportunities and limitations of AI in mental healthcare, and helping children build confidence and healthy body image. Throughout the episode, Dr. Khanzode reminds parents that mental health deserves the same attention and compassion as physical health—and that informed, supportive parents are one of the greatest protective factors a child can have.</p><h3><strong>What You'll Learn</strong></h3><ul><li>Why early intervention can significantly improve children's mental health outcomes</li><li>Common warning signs of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder</li><li>How parents can recognize when behavioral changes require professional support</li><li>Why education helps families reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness</li><li>The lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children's emotional development</li><li>Practical ways to support children experiencing anxiety and depression</li><li>Healthy strategies for managing smartphones, social media, and screen time</li><li>Why creating family technology boundaries benefits children's mental health</li><li>The benefits and limitations of AI tools for mental health support</li><li>How parents can foster healthy body image, confidence, and emotional resilience</li></ul><br/><h3><strong>About Dr. Leena Khanzode</strong></h3><p><strong>Dr. Leena Khanzode</strong> is a board-certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist and the Founder of <strong>Silicon Valley Psychiatry</strong>. She is also the Founder and Executive Director of the <strong>Taarika Foundation</strong>, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and providing education and early intervention resources for children, adolescents, parents, educators, and communities.</p><p>In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Khanzode serves as an <strong>Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor</strong> in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Child &amp; Adolescent Psychiatry and Child Development at <strong>Stanford University School of Medicine</strong>. Through her work in clinical care, education, nonprofit leadership, and public advocacy, she is committed to helping families build resilience and improve lifelong mental wellness.</p><h3><strong>Connect with Dr. Leena Khanzode</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>LinkedIn:</strong> <u><a href="http://linkedin.com/in/leena-khanzode-5249891b4" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">linkedin.com/in/leena-khanzode-5249891b4</a></u></li><li><strong>Taarika Foundation:</strong> taarika.foundation</li><li><strong>Silicon Valley Psychiatry:</strong> <u><a href="http://siliconvalleypsychiatry.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">siliconvalleypsychiatry.com</a></u></li><li><strong>Mindful, Beautiful &amp; Thriving Podcast</strong></li><li><strong>Stanford University Faculty Profile</strong></li></ul><br/><h3><strong>Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></h3><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health, your parenting partner in your pocket.</strong></p><p>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips delivered straight to your inbox.</p><p><strong>Sign up here:</strong><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></u></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<h3><strong>Episode Summary:</strong></h3><p>Supporting children's mental health has never been more important, or more challenging. In this episode of <strong>Parent Confidence Lab</strong>, Hans and Cristina welcome <strong>Dr. Leena Khanzode</strong>, a board-certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist, founder of <strong>Silicon Valley Psychiatry</strong>, founder and Executive Director of the <strong>Taarika Foundation</strong>, and Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor at Stanford University School of Medicine, to discuss how parents can recognize mental health concerns early and confidently support their children's emotional well-being.</p><p>Drawing from both her professional expertise and deeply personal experience growing up with parents affected by bipolar disorder, Dr. Khanzode shares why early identification and intervention can dramatically improve a child's quality of life. She explains how anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic are affecting children at increasingly younger ages, and why education and awareness are essential for parents.</p><p>The conversation also explores practical strategies for recognizing early warning signs, reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness, navigating smartphones and social media, setting healthy technology boundaries, understanding the opportunities and limitations of AI in mental healthcare, and helping children build confidence and healthy body image. Throughout the episode, Dr. Khanzode reminds parents that mental health deserves the same attention and compassion as physical health—and that informed, supportive parents are one of the greatest protective factors a child can have.</p><h3><strong>What You'll Learn</strong></h3><ul><li>Why early intervention can significantly improve children's mental health outcomes</li><li>Common warning signs of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder</li><li>How parents can recognize when behavioral changes require professional support</li><li>Why education helps families reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness</li><li>The lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children's emotional development</li><li>Practical ways to support children experiencing anxiety and depression</li><li>Healthy strategies for managing smartphones, social media, and screen time</li><li>Why creating family technology boundaries benefits children's mental health</li><li>The benefits and limitations of AI tools for mental health support</li><li>How parents can foster healthy body image, confidence, and emotional resilience</li></ul><br/><h3><strong>About Dr. Leena Khanzode</strong></h3><p><strong>Dr. Leena Khanzode</strong> is a board-certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist and the Founder of <strong>Silicon Valley Psychiatry</strong>. She is also the Founder and Executive Director of the <strong>Taarika Foundation</strong>, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and providing education and early intervention resources for children, adolescents, parents, educators, and communities.</p><p>In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Khanzode serves as an <strong>Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor</strong> in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Child &amp; Adolescent Psychiatry and Child Development at <strong>Stanford University School of Medicine</strong>. Through her work in clinical care, education, nonprofit leadership, and public advocacy, she is committed to helping families build resilience and improve lifelong mental wellness.</p><h3><strong>Connect with Dr. Leena Khanzode</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>LinkedIn:</strong> <u><a href="http://linkedin.com/in/leena-khanzode-5249891b4" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">linkedin.com/in/leena-khanzode-5249891b4</a></u></li><li><strong>Taarika Foundation:</strong> taarika.foundation</li><li><strong>Silicon Valley Psychiatry:</strong> <u><a href="http://siliconvalleypsychiatry.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">siliconvalleypsychiatry.com</a></u></li><li><strong>Mindful, Beautiful &amp; Thriving Podcast</strong></li><li><strong>Stanford University Faculty Profile</strong></li></ul><br/><h3><strong>Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></h3><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health, your parenting partner in your pocket.</strong></p><p>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips delivered straight to your inbox.</p><p><strong>Sign up here:</strong><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></u></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://parent-confidence-lab.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">8653082f-59c7-4606-bc2c-1303b48700c5</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/c7d7f1c6-153c-4e5d-8166-1340bc24c84e/dr-Leena-Khanzode.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 11 Aug 2026 05:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/8653082f-59c7-4606-bc2c-1303b48700c5.mp3" length="42059282" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>43:49</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Advancing Pediatric Palliative Care, Supporting Healthcare Providers, and Helping Parents Become Stronger Advocates for Their Children with Dr. Melanie Reynolds</title><itunes:title>Advancing Pediatric Palliative Care, Supporting Healthcare Providers, and Helping Parents Become Stronger Advocates for Their Children with Dr. Melanie Reynolds</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<h3><strong>Episode Summary:</strong></h3><p>Supporting a child through a serious illness is one of the greatest challenges any parent can face. In this episode of <strong>Parent Confidence Lab</strong>, Hans and Cristina welcome <strong>Melanie Reynolds, MS, APRN, NPD-BC, CPNP-AC/PC</strong>, a pediatric palliative care nurse practitioner, healthcare educator, and advanced practice leader at Children's Hospital Los Angeles, for an inspiring conversation about compassionate care, parent advocacy, and building stronger healthcare partnerships.</p><p>Drawing from her years of experience in pediatric intensive care, cardiac intensive care, pain management, and pediatric palliative care, Melanie shares the personal experience that inspired her career and explains how palliative care focuses on improving quality of life—not simply end-of-life care. Through powerful patient stories, she illustrates how thoughtful pain management, creative problem-solving, and family-centered care can help children spend meaningful time with the people they love.</p><p>The conversation also explores the emotional realities of caring for critically ill children, how becoming a mother changed Melanie's perspective as a clinician, and why supporting healthcare providers is essential to delivering better patient outcomes. Melanie discusses her work developing Children's Hospital Los Angeles' Advanced Practice Provider Fellowship, mentoring future nurse practitioners and physician associates, and creating psychologically safe environments that reduce burnout and improve patient care.</p><p>For parents, Melanie offers practical guidance on trusting their instincts, communicating openly with medical teams, advocating confidently for their children, and embracing the moments that matter most, even during life's most difficult seasons.</p><h3><strong>What You'll Learn</strong></h3><ul><li>What pediatric palliative care really means beyond end-of-life care</li><li>Why effective pain management can dramatically improve a child's quality of life</li><li>How one young patient's experience inspired Melanie's career in pediatric palliative care</li><li>Why parents are the most valuable members of their child's healthcare team</li><li>How sharing your observations helps providers make better clinical decisions</li><li>The importance of trusting your instincts when something feels wrong</li><li>How collaboration between families and healthcare providers improves patient outcomes</li><li>What healthcare organizations can do to support providers and reduce burnout</li><li>Why psychological safety and mentorship are essential for developing future healthcare leaders</li><li>Simple mindfulness techniques, including the "Awe Walk," for managing stress and building resilience</li><li>How becoming a parent transformed Melanie's approach to caring for children and families</li></ul><br/><h3><strong>About Melanie Reynolds</strong></h3><p><strong>Melanie Reynolds, MS, APRN, NPD-BC, CPNP-AC/PC</strong>, is a pediatric palliative care nurse practitioner and healthcare leader at Children's Hospital Los Angeles. She serves as the <strong>APP Fellowship Director</strong> and <strong>Senior Advanced Practice Professional Development Specialist</strong>, where she leads programs that support education, professional development, and provider well-being for advanced practice clinicians. Passionate about compassionate pediatric care, mentorship, and family-centered healthcare, Melanie is dedicated to helping children, families, and healthcare providers thrive together.</p><h3><strong>Connect with Melanie Reynolds</strong></h3><p><strong>LinkedIn:</strong><u><a href="http://linkedin.com/in/melaniewreynolds" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> linkedin.com/in/melaniewreynolds</a></u></p><h3><strong>Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></h3><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health, your parenting partner in your pocket.</strong></p><p>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox.</p><p><strong>Sign up here:</strong><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></u></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<h3><strong>Episode Summary:</strong></h3><p>Supporting a child through a serious illness is one of the greatest challenges any parent can face. In this episode of <strong>Parent Confidence Lab</strong>, Hans and Cristina welcome <strong>Melanie Reynolds, MS, APRN, NPD-BC, CPNP-AC/PC</strong>, a pediatric palliative care nurse practitioner, healthcare educator, and advanced practice leader at Children's Hospital Los Angeles, for an inspiring conversation about compassionate care, parent advocacy, and building stronger healthcare partnerships.</p><p>Drawing from her years of experience in pediatric intensive care, cardiac intensive care, pain management, and pediatric palliative care, Melanie shares the personal experience that inspired her career and explains how palliative care focuses on improving quality of life—not simply end-of-life care. Through powerful patient stories, she illustrates how thoughtful pain management, creative problem-solving, and family-centered care can help children spend meaningful time with the people they love.</p><p>The conversation also explores the emotional realities of caring for critically ill children, how becoming a mother changed Melanie's perspective as a clinician, and why supporting healthcare providers is essential to delivering better patient outcomes. Melanie discusses her work developing Children's Hospital Los Angeles' Advanced Practice Provider Fellowship, mentoring future nurse practitioners and physician associates, and creating psychologically safe environments that reduce burnout and improve patient care.</p><p>For parents, Melanie offers practical guidance on trusting their instincts, communicating openly with medical teams, advocating confidently for their children, and embracing the moments that matter most, even during life's most difficult seasons.</p><h3><strong>What You'll Learn</strong></h3><ul><li>What pediatric palliative care really means beyond end-of-life care</li><li>Why effective pain management can dramatically improve a child's quality of life</li><li>How one young patient's experience inspired Melanie's career in pediatric palliative care</li><li>Why parents are the most valuable members of their child's healthcare team</li><li>How sharing your observations helps providers make better clinical decisions</li><li>The importance of trusting your instincts when something feels wrong</li><li>How collaboration between families and healthcare providers improves patient outcomes</li><li>What healthcare organizations can do to support providers and reduce burnout</li><li>Why psychological safety and mentorship are essential for developing future healthcare leaders</li><li>Simple mindfulness techniques, including the "Awe Walk," for managing stress and building resilience</li><li>How becoming a parent transformed Melanie's approach to caring for children and families</li></ul><br/><h3><strong>About Melanie Reynolds</strong></h3><p><strong>Melanie Reynolds, MS, APRN, NPD-BC, CPNP-AC/PC</strong>, is a pediatric palliative care nurse practitioner and healthcare leader at Children's Hospital Los Angeles. She serves as the <strong>APP Fellowship Director</strong> and <strong>Senior Advanced Practice Professional Development Specialist</strong>, where she leads programs that support education, professional development, and provider well-being for advanced practice clinicians. Passionate about compassionate pediatric care, mentorship, and family-centered healthcare, Melanie is dedicated to helping children, families, and healthcare providers thrive together.</p><h3><strong>Connect with Melanie Reynolds</strong></h3><p><strong>LinkedIn:</strong><u><a href="http://linkedin.com/in/melaniewreynolds" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> linkedin.com/in/melaniewreynolds</a></u></p><h3><strong>Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></h3><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health, your parenting partner in your pocket.</strong></p><p>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox.</p><p><strong>Sign up here:</strong><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></u></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://parent-confidence-lab.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">ebc1a127-0cd4-431b-aaf3-6a26dde67100</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/611908ae-9a66-4569-9d14-a10c1cf1900c/Melanie.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 28 Jul 2026 05:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/ebc1a127-0cd4-431b-aaf3-6a26dde67100.mp3" length="26391664" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>27:29</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Helping Parents Build Trust, Navigate Modern Healthcare, and Raise Healthier Children with Dr. Steven Abelowitz</title><itunes:title>Helping Parents Build Trust, Navigate Modern Healthcare, and Raise Healthier Children with Dr. Steven Abelowitz</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<h3><strong>Episode Summary:</strong></h3><p>Making informed healthcare decisions for children has never been more challenging. Between online information, changing medical recommendations, and the growing role of technology, parents often find themselves searching for trusted guidance. In this episode of <strong>Parent Confidence Lab</strong>, Hans and Cristina welcome <strong>Dr. Steven Abelowitz</strong>, board-certified pediatrician, physician executive, healthcare entrepreneur, founder and Medical Director of Ocean Pediatrics, and father of three, to discuss how parents can confidently navigate today's pediatric healthcare landscape while building lifelong partnerships with their child's physician.</p><p>Drawing from nearly three decades of clinical experience, Dr. Abelowitz explains why continuity of care and strong relationships between pediatricians and families lead to better health outcomes. He shares practical advice on preparing for medical appointments, asking better questions, evaluating healthcare information online, making informed decisions about vaccinations, recognizing early signs of anxiety and depression, and balancing children's use of technology and social media.</p><p>The conversation also explores the opportunities and challenges artificial intelligence brings to healthcare, why physician-led care remains essential despite technological advances, and how parents can create a positive home environment that fosters resilience, confidence, and emotional well-being. Reflecting on both his medical career and his own parenting journey, Dr. Abelowitz reminds parents that learning, adapting, and trusting the right resources are key to raising healthy, thriving children.</p><h2><strong>What You'll Learn</strong></h2><ul><li>Why finding a trusted pediatrician creates better long-term health outcomes</li><li>How parents can prepare for pediatric visits and ask more meaningful questions</li><li>Why collaboration between physicians and parents improves medical decision-making</li><li>Practical ways to identify reliable medical information and avoid misinformation</li><li>What parents should know about vaccines and evidence-based healthcare decisions</li><li>Healthy approaches to managing children's screen time and social media use</li><li>How pediatricians recognize early signs of anxiety, depression, and behavioral health concerns</li><li>The benefits and limitations of artificial intelligence in pediatric healthcare</li><li>Parenting strategies for handling tantrums, emotional regulation, and difficult moments</li><li>Why creating a positive, trusting family environment helps children build lifelong confidence and resilience</li></ul><br/><h2><strong>About Dr. Steven Abelowitz</strong></h2><p>Dr. <strong>Steven Abelowitz, MD, FAAP</strong>, is a board-certified pediatrician, physician executive, and founder and Medical Director of <strong>Ocean Pediatrics</strong> in Orange County, California. With nearly 30 years of experience, he is passionate about providing relationship-based pediatric care and helping families make informed healthcare decisions. Dr. Abelowitz previously founded <strong>Coastal Kids Medical Group</strong>, one of Southern California's largest independent pediatric organizations, and currently serves as an Adjunct Professor at the <strong>USC Keck School of Medicine</strong>. As a husband and father of three, he combines decades of clinical expertise with firsthand parenting experience to help children and families thrive.</p><h2><strong>Connect with Dr. Steven Abelowitz</strong></h2><ul><li><strong>LinkedIn:</strong><a href=" linkedin.com/in/steven-abelowitz-md-faap-a5b0b01b" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> l</a><u><a href=" linkedin.com/in/steven-abelowitz-md-faap-a5b0b01b" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">inkedin.com/in/steven-abelowitz-md-faap-a5b0b01b</a></u></li><li><strong>Ocean Pediatrics:</strong><u><a href="http://ocean-pediatrics.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> ocean-pediatrics.com</a></u></li></ul><br/><h2><strong>Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></h2><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health</strong>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</p><p>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox.</p><p><strong>Sign up here:</strong><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></u></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<h3><strong>Episode Summary:</strong></h3><p>Making informed healthcare decisions for children has never been more challenging. Between online information, changing medical recommendations, and the growing role of technology, parents often find themselves searching for trusted guidance. In this episode of <strong>Parent Confidence Lab</strong>, Hans and Cristina welcome <strong>Dr. Steven Abelowitz</strong>, board-certified pediatrician, physician executive, healthcare entrepreneur, founder and Medical Director of Ocean Pediatrics, and father of three, to discuss how parents can confidently navigate today's pediatric healthcare landscape while building lifelong partnerships with their child's physician.</p><p>Drawing from nearly three decades of clinical experience, Dr. Abelowitz explains why continuity of care and strong relationships between pediatricians and families lead to better health outcomes. He shares practical advice on preparing for medical appointments, asking better questions, evaluating healthcare information online, making informed decisions about vaccinations, recognizing early signs of anxiety and depression, and balancing children's use of technology and social media.</p><p>The conversation also explores the opportunities and challenges artificial intelligence brings to healthcare, why physician-led care remains essential despite technological advances, and how parents can create a positive home environment that fosters resilience, confidence, and emotional well-being. Reflecting on both his medical career and his own parenting journey, Dr. Abelowitz reminds parents that learning, adapting, and trusting the right resources are key to raising healthy, thriving children.</p><h2><strong>What You'll Learn</strong></h2><ul><li>Why finding a trusted pediatrician creates better long-term health outcomes</li><li>How parents can prepare for pediatric visits and ask more meaningful questions</li><li>Why collaboration between physicians and parents improves medical decision-making</li><li>Practical ways to identify reliable medical information and avoid misinformation</li><li>What parents should know about vaccines and evidence-based healthcare decisions</li><li>Healthy approaches to managing children's screen time and social media use</li><li>How pediatricians recognize early signs of anxiety, depression, and behavioral health concerns</li><li>The benefits and limitations of artificial intelligence in pediatric healthcare</li><li>Parenting strategies for handling tantrums, emotional regulation, and difficult moments</li><li>Why creating a positive, trusting family environment helps children build lifelong confidence and resilience</li></ul><br/><h2><strong>About Dr. Steven Abelowitz</strong></h2><p>Dr. <strong>Steven Abelowitz, MD, FAAP</strong>, is a board-certified pediatrician, physician executive, and founder and Medical Director of <strong>Ocean Pediatrics</strong> in Orange County, California. With nearly 30 years of experience, he is passionate about providing relationship-based pediatric care and helping families make informed healthcare decisions. Dr. Abelowitz previously founded <strong>Coastal Kids Medical Group</strong>, one of Southern California's largest independent pediatric organizations, and currently serves as an Adjunct Professor at the <strong>USC Keck School of Medicine</strong>. As a husband and father of three, he combines decades of clinical expertise with firsthand parenting experience to help children and families thrive.</p><h2><strong>Connect with Dr. Steven Abelowitz</strong></h2><ul><li><strong>LinkedIn:</strong><a href=" linkedin.com/in/steven-abelowitz-md-faap-a5b0b01b" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> l</a><u><a href=" linkedin.com/in/steven-abelowitz-md-faap-a5b0b01b" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">inkedin.com/in/steven-abelowitz-md-faap-a5b0b01b</a></u></li><li><strong>Ocean Pediatrics:</strong><u><a href="http://ocean-pediatrics.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> ocean-pediatrics.com</a></u></li></ul><br/><h2><strong>Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></h2><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health</strong>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</p><p>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox.</p><p><strong>Sign up here:</strong><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></u></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://parent-confidence-lab.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">97c252ca-8b68-4f34-a21a-75ecab00b539</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/43002589-b776-4659-ad28-363359f8565c/Dr-Steven.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 21 Jul 2026 05:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/97c252ca-8b68-4f34-a21a-75ecab00b539.mp3" length="37113989" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>38:40</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Empowering Parents to Advocate for Their Children with Better Healthcare, AI, and Confidence with Dr. Zaid Fadul</title><itunes:title>Empowering Parents to Advocate for Their Children with Better Healthcare, AI, and Confidence with Dr. Zaid Fadul</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<h3><strong>Episode Summary:</strong></h3><p>Navigating today's healthcare system can feel overwhelming for parents, especially when they're trying to make the best decisions for their children. In this episode of <strong>Parent Confidence Lab</strong>, Hans and Cristina welcome <strong>Dr. Zaid Fadul</strong>, a Harvard-trained physician, healthcare innovator, CEO of Bespoke Concierge MD, and proud father of four, to discuss how parents can become stronger advocates for their children's health while embracing new technologies like artificial intelligence.</p><p>Drawing from his experience in family medicine, addiction medicine, concierge healthcare, and military service as a U.S. Air Force Reserve flight surgeon, Dr. Fadul explains why healthcare works best when physicians and parents become collaborative partners. He shares practical advice on improving health literacy, asking better questions during medical appointments, using AI responsibly to understand diagnoses, and trusting parental instincts when something feels wrong.</p><p>The conversation also dives into parenting itself—from raising emotionally resilient children and navigating technology addiction to balancing discipline with compassion. Dr. Fadul offers honest reflections on fatherhood, longevity, apologizing to your children, and why forgiving yourself as a parent is just as important as being patient with your kids.</p><h3><strong>What You'll Learn</strong></h3><ul><li>Why parents are their child's most important healthcare advocate</li><li>How trusting your instincts can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes</li><li>The importance of health literacy in making informed medical decisions</li><li>How AI can help parents understand medical information without replacing physicians</li><li>Best practices for using AI safely and responsibly for healthcare questions</li><li>Why collaboration between doctors and parents leads to better care</li><li>How to recognize the root causes behind childhood and teenage addictions</li><li>Practical parenting strategies for discipline, communication, and emotional resilience</li><li>Why apologizing to your children builds trust and healthy relationships</li><li>How self-compassion helps parents become more confident over time</li></ul><br/><h3><strong>About Dr. Zaid Fadul</strong></h3><p><strong>Dr. Zaid Fadul</strong> is a dual board-certified physician in Family Medicine and Addiction Medicine, a Harvard-trained healthcare leader, and CEO of <strong>Bespoke Concierge MD</strong>. He also serves as a Flight Surgeon with the U.S. Air Force Reserve and is passionate about simplifying healthcare through education, technology, and patient empowerment. As a husband and father of four, Dr. Fadul combines clinical expertise with real-world parenting experience to help families become more informed, confident advocates for their children's health.</p><h3><strong>Connect with Dr. Zaid Fadul</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>LinkedIn:</strong> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/drfadul/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">linkedin.com/in/drfadul</a></li><li><strong>YouTube:</strong> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@drzaidfadul" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@drzaidfadul</a></li><li><strong>Become a Patient: </strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=channel_description&amp;redir_token=QUFFLUhqbkNsQ1Y4Q0RDSW9aUkNZQUhuTkNqbll3bFFkUXxBQ3Jtc0tsRnhRdlVCbk9CUzMzSUh1cGg0X2g3X3ZFSHdlRHBnTnlKTG4yYWtCZ2N0bnIzdDNkWlZLUXlJdEJQMkJQeUY1ZXZ1NDYwSVZWeEFKMWg3NUd5UWtuSDNkVmd6TGkzd0FVTFR2Y1FFdjYydk80UGpKMA&amp;q=https%3A%2F%2Fshop.BespokeConciergeMD.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">shop.bespokeconciergemd.com</a></li><li><strong>Instagram: </strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=channel_description&amp;redir_token=QUFFLUhqa0dMWlc2X2VZY19oSkNzUVh2ZG9zRFZqTEN0UXxBQ3Jtc0trVWx4LVh3d0N1aUhiTVNETkVOZUxOQXE4dEdHNDVGR1RzVmtsc19uWTFVVlJsZEtBSllJbU9pRk1ibFZQaUdGS1VydmtuSmpjYXJxT1JtNGRBUXlWT2VrYzN5a1o0WjZTLVdONTFHNHk2T1pIUksyNA&amp;q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fdrzaidfadul%2F" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">instagram.com/drzaidfadul</a></li><li><strong>TikTok: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=channel_description&amp;redir_token=QUFFLUhqbmxSRGNZaVZjZm1ScmFUUS1nNWpURGRoNC1nQXxBQ3Jtc0tuZmJjNVZVM2o4d2pWcU9nZUQyMDRaMUNDNUh4cGdhMm5VSXJYeF8tZzdVdjZfTDl6VVdTa2FNYU1tbU1pSWlaMVgwMFQtUEJ1UjJSOU1jZVpaUzBNcGJ3LTJnZHpQS2stZkVnVkVMR3lmQnkwS1pQYw&amp;q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2F%40drzaidfadulmd" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">t</a></strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=channel_description&amp;redir_token=QUFFLUhqbmxSRGNZaVZjZm1ScmFUUS1nNWpURGRoNC1nQXxBQ3Jtc0tuZmJjNVZVM2o4d2pWcU9nZUQyMDRaMUNDNUh4cGdhMm5VSXJYeF8tZzdVdjZfTDl6VVdTa2FNYU1tbU1pSWlaMVgwMFQtUEJ1UjJSOU1jZVpaUzBNcGJ3LTJnZHpQS2stZkVnVkVMR3lmQnkwS1pQYw&amp;q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2F%40drzaidfadulmd" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">iktok.com/@drzaidfadulmd</a></li><li><strong>Bespoke Concierge MD: </strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=channel_description&amp;redir_token=QUFFLUhqbWtVRU9MUGJoYmNDb0lfZENPLXlUU2hWR2hUZ3xBQ3Jtc0ttb3R0d1BnWDhVbmFHcTJtZ19JdzFhVTl2T3BSczlYLWJqWmw5QlBkTnJycjgxckFPMGRwQWJjcEw4ZUNsYnpGZVE4eVJtZ20tbENhc0U0blV6Q1BBVTRidUVuWGJTQUJlM3k5aGx5QkpOckxUQjF5RQ&amp;q=www.BespokeConciergeMD.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">bespokeconciergemd.com</a></li></ul><br/><h3><strong>Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></h3><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health, your parenting partner in your pocket.</strong></p><p>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox.</p><p><strong>Sign up here:</strong><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></u></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<h3><strong>Episode Summary:</strong></h3><p>Navigating today's healthcare system can feel overwhelming for parents, especially when they're trying to make the best decisions for their children. In this episode of <strong>Parent Confidence Lab</strong>, Hans and Cristina welcome <strong>Dr. Zaid Fadul</strong>, a Harvard-trained physician, healthcare innovator, CEO of Bespoke Concierge MD, and proud father of four, to discuss how parents can become stronger advocates for their children's health while embracing new technologies like artificial intelligence.</p><p>Drawing from his experience in family medicine, addiction medicine, concierge healthcare, and military service as a U.S. Air Force Reserve flight surgeon, Dr. Fadul explains why healthcare works best when physicians and parents become collaborative partners. He shares practical advice on improving health literacy, asking better questions during medical appointments, using AI responsibly to understand diagnoses, and trusting parental instincts when something feels wrong.</p><p>The conversation also dives into parenting itself—from raising emotionally resilient children and navigating technology addiction to balancing discipline with compassion. Dr. Fadul offers honest reflections on fatherhood, longevity, apologizing to your children, and why forgiving yourself as a parent is just as important as being patient with your kids.</p><h3><strong>What You'll Learn</strong></h3><ul><li>Why parents are their child's most important healthcare advocate</li><li>How trusting your instincts can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes</li><li>The importance of health literacy in making informed medical decisions</li><li>How AI can help parents understand medical information without replacing physicians</li><li>Best practices for using AI safely and responsibly for healthcare questions</li><li>Why collaboration between doctors and parents leads to better care</li><li>How to recognize the root causes behind childhood and teenage addictions</li><li>Practical parenting strategies for discipline, communication, and emotional resilience</li><li>Why apologizing to your children builds trust and healthy relationships</li><li>How self-compassion helps parents become more confident over time</li></ul><br/><h3><strong>About Dr. Zaid Fadul</strong></h3><p><strong>Dr. Zaid Fadul</strong> is a dual board-certified physician in Family Medicine and Addiction Medicine, a Harvard-trained healthcare leader, and CEO of <strong>Bespoke Concierge MD</strong>. He also serves as a Flight Surgeon with the U.S. Air Force Reserve and is passionate about simplifying healthcare through education, technology, and patient empowerment. As a husband and father of four, Dr. Fadul combines clinical expertise with real-world parenting experience to help families become more informed, confident advocates for their children's health.</p><h3><strong>Connect with Dr. Zaid Fadul</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>LinkedIn:</strong> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/drfadul/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">linkedin.com/in/drfadul</a></li><li><strong>YouTube:</strong> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@drzaidfadul" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@drzaidfadul</a></li><li><strong>Become a Patient: </strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=channel_description&amp;redir_token=QUFFLUhqbkNsQ1Y4Q0RDSW9aUkNZQUhuTkNqbll3bFFkUXxBQ3Jtc0tsRnhRdlVCbk9CUzMzSUh1cGg0X2g3X3ZFSHdlRHBnTnlKTG4yYWtCZ2N0bnIzdDNkWlZLUXlJdEJQMkJQeUY1ZXZ1NDYwSVZWeEFKMWg3NUd5UWtuSDNkVmd6TGkzd0FVTFR2Y1FFdjYydk80UGpKMA&amp;q=https%3A%2F%2Fshop.BespokeConciergeMD.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">shop.bespokeconciergemd.com</a></li><li><strong>Instagram: </strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=channel_description&amp;redir_token=QUFFLUhqa0dMWlc2X2VZY19oSkNzUVh2ZG9zRFZqTEN0UXxBQ3Jtc0trVWx4LVh3d0N1aUhiTVNETkVOZUxOQXE4dEdHNDVGR1RzVmtsc19uWTFVVlJsZEtBSllJbU9pRk1ibFZQaUdGS1VydmtuSmpjYXJxT1JtNGRBUXlWT2VrYzN5a1o0WjZTLVdONTFHNHk2T1pIUksyNA&amp;q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fdrzaidfadul%2F" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">instagram.com/drzaidfadul</a></li><li><strong>TikTok: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=channel_description&amp;redir_token=QUFFLUhqbmxSRGNZaVZjZm1ScmFUUS1nNWpURGRoNC1nQXxBQ3Jtc0tuZmJjNVZVM2o4d2pWcU9nZUQyMDRaMUNDNUh4cGdhMm5VSXJYeF8tZzdVdjZfTDl6VVdTa2FNYU1tbU1pSWlaMVgwMFQtUEJ1UjJSOU1jZVpaUzBNcGJ3LTJnZHpQS2stZkVnVkVMR3lmQnkwS1pQYw&amp;q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2F%40drzaidfadulmd" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">t</a></strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=channel_description&amp;redir_token=QUFFLUhqbmxSRGNZaVZjZm1ScmFUUS1nNWpURGRoNC1nQXxBQ3Jtc0tuZmJjNVZVM2o4d2pWcU9nZUQyMDRaMUNDNUh4cGdhMm5VSXJYeF8tZzdVdjZfTDl6VVdTa2FNYU1tbU1pSWlaMVgwMFQtUEJ1UjJSOU1jZVpaUzBNcGJ3LTJnZHpQS2stZkVnVkVMR3lmQnkwS1pQYw&amp;q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2F%40drzaidfadulmd" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">iktok.com/@drzaidfadulmd</a></li><li><strong>Bespoke Concierge MD: </strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=channel_description&amp;redir_token=QUFFLUhqbWtVRU9MUGJoYmNDb0lfZENPLXlUU2hWR2hUZ3xBQ3Jtc0ttb3R0d1BnWDhVbmFHcTJtZ19JdzFhVTl2T3BSczlYLWJqWmw5QlBkTnJycjgxckFPMGRwQWJjcEw4ZUNsYnpGZVE4eVJtZ20tbENhc0U0blV6Q1BBVTRidUVuWGJTQUJlM3k5aGx5QkpOckxUQjF5RQ&amp;q=www.BespokeConciergeMD.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">bespokeconciergemd.com</a></li></ul><br/><h3><strong>Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></h3><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health, your parenting partner in your pocket.</strong></p><p>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox.</p><p><strong>Sign up here:</strong><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></u></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://parent-confidence-lab.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">92b88ad7-ed60-4491-9ac1-c4e5fb5daf28</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/75edd54e-ffe7-4085-b7a3-456291ede0fa/podcast-3.png"/><pubDate>Tue, 14 Jul 2026 09:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/92b88ad7-ed60-4491-9ac1-c4e5fb5daf28.mp3" length="28822515" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>30:01</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Supporting Your Teen&apos;s Mental Health Through Nature and Community with Dr. Nora Dennis</title><itunes:title>Supporting Your Teen&apos;s Mental Health Through Nature and Community with Dr. Nora Dennis</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<h3><strong>Episode Summary:</strong></h3><p>Mental health challenges among young people continue to rise, leaving many parents searching for approaches that go beyond traditional treatment. In this episode of <strong>Parent Confidence Lab</strong>, Hans and Cristina sit down with <strong>Dr. Nora Dennis</strong>, psychiatrist, addiction medicine physician, and founder of <strong>Jubilee Healing Farm</strong>, to explore a new model of healing rooted in nature, community, and human connection.</p><p>Drawing from her experience leading behavioral health within the healthcare system, Dr. Dennis explains why she left conventional medicine to create a healing farm where movement, sunlight, sleep, meaningful relationships, and time outdoors are integrated into mental health care. She shares how loneliness, excessive screen time, disrupted routines, and social isolation have contributed to the growing youth mental health crisis—and why rebuilding connection is essential for lasting recovery.</p><p>The conversation explores practical strategies parents can use to support their children, including creating healthy routines, encouraging outdoor play, reducing screen dependence, fostering gratitude, and finding meaningful ways to reconnect with teenagers. Dr. Dennis also discusses the science behind social connection, mirror neurons, forest bathing, and why healing happens best when people experience belonging within a supportive community.</p><h3><strong>What You'll Learn</strong></h3><ul><li>Why nature plays a powerful role in mental health and emotional healing</li><li>How excessive screen time contributes to anxiety, depression, and isolation</li><li>Why routines around sleep, meals, movement, and social connection improve mental wellness</li><li>The importance of community and shared healing in recovery</li><li>How loneliness impacts teenagers and emerging adults</li><li>Why gratitude, wonder, and play strengthen emotional resilience</li><li>How parents can reconnect with teens through shared activities instead of constant conversation</li><li>The science behind mirror neurons and face-to-face human connection</li><li>Why movement and exercise can be as effective as medication for some forms of depression</li><li>How holistic care addresses the whole person—not just symptoms</li></ul><br/><h3><strong>About Nora Dennis</strong></h3><p><strong>Dr. Nora Dennis</strong> is a board-certified psychiatrist and addiction medicine physician with a background in maternal and child health. She is the founder of <strong>Jubilee Healing Farm</strong>, an innovative mental health clinic in North Carolina that combines evidence-based psychiatric care with nature, community, and holistic wellness practices. Through her work, Dr. Dennis is helping young adults and families discover new pathways toward resilience, healing, and human flourishing.</p><h3><strong>Connect with Nora Dennis</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>Website:</strong> <u><a href="https://www.jubileehealingfarm.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.jubileehealingfarm.org/</a></u></li><li><strong>LinkedIn: </strong><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/nora-dennis/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/nora-dennis/</a></li></ul><br/><h3><strong>Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></h3><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health, your parenting partner in your pocket.</strong></p><p>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox.</p><p><strong>Sign up here:</strong><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></u></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<h3><strong>Episode Summary:</strong></h3><p>Mental health challenges among young people continue to rise, leaving many parents searching for approaches that go beyond traditional treatment. In this episode of <strong>Parent Confidence Lab</strong>, Hans and Cristina sit down with <strong>Dr. Nora Dennis</strong>, psychiatrist, addiction medicine physician, and founder of <strong>Jubilee Healing Farm</strong>, to explore a new model of healing rooted in nature, community, and human connection.</p><p>Drawing from her experience leading behavioral health within the healthcare system, Dr. Dennis explains why she left conventional medicine to create a healing farm where movement, sunlight, sleep, meaningful relationships, and time outdoors are integrated into mental health care. She shares how loneliness, excessive screen time, disrupted routines, and social isolation have contributed to the growing youth mental health crisis—and why rebuilding connection is essential for lasting recovery.</p><p>The conversation explores practical strategies parents can use to support their children, including creating healthy routines, encouraging outdoor play, reducing screen dependence, fostering gratitude, and finding meaningful ways to reconnect with teenagers. Dr. Dennis also discusses the science behind social connection, mirror neurons, forest bathing, and why healing happens best when people experience belonging within a supportive community.</p><h3><strong>What You'll Learn</strong></h3><ul><li>Why nature plays a powerful role in mental health and emotional healing</li><li>How excessive screen time contributes to anxiety, depression, and isolation</li><li>Why routines around sleep, meals, movement, and social connection improve mental wellness</li><li>The importance of community and shared healing in recovery</li><li>How loneliness impacts teenagers and emerging adults</li><li>Why gratitude, wonder, and play strengthen emotional resilience</li><li>How parents can reconnect with teens through shared activities instead of constant conversation</li><li>The science behind mirror neurons and face-to-face human connection</li><li>Why movement and exercise can be as effective as medication for some forms of depression</li><li>How holistic care addresses the whole person—not just symptoms</li></ul><br/><h3><strong>About Nora Dennis</strong></h3><p><strong>Dr. Nora Dennis</strong> is a board-certified psychiatrist and addiction medicine physician with a background in maternal and child health. She is the founder of <strong>Jubilee Healing Farm</strong>, an innovative mental health clinic in North Carolina that combines evidence-based psychiatric care with nature, community, and holistic wellness practices. Through her work, Dr. Dennis is helping young adults and families discover new pathways toward resilience, healing, and human flourishing.</p><h3><strong>Connect with Nora Dennis</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>Website:</strong> <u><a href="https://www.jubileehealingfarm.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.jubileehealingfarm.org/</a></u></li><li><strong>LinkedIn: </strong><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/nora-dennis/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/nora-dennis/</a></li></ul><br/><h3><strong>Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></h3><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p><strong>Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health, your parenting partner in your pocket.</strong></p><p>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox.</p><p><strong>Sign up here:</strong><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></u></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://parent-confidence-lab.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">df35fdb8-b6fd-4b8b-91f9-98288a141559</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/23b05766-858a-4df0-a8c1-aea8915b6941/Dr-Nora-Dennis.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 30 Jun 2026 05:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/df35fdb8-b6fd-4b8b-91f9-98288a141559.mp3" length="39489251" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>41:08</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Building Strong Family Foundations Through Compassion and Community with Elizabeth Wilberg</title><itunes:title>Building Strong Family Foundations Through Compassion and Community with Elizabeth Wilberg</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<h2><strong>Episode Summary: </strong></h2><p>Parenting often requires balancing hope, resilience, and perseverance through both everyday challenges and life’s most difficult moments. Elizabeth Wilberg joins Hans and Cristina on the Parent Confidence Lab podcast to share her journey as a mother, nonprofit leader, and advocate for children and families. As Executive Director of Episcopal Community Services in San Diego, Elizabeth oversees programs that support early childhood education, children’s mental health, homelessness prevention, substance use recovery, and family stability.</p><p>Elizabeth discusses how her own path to motherhood through adoption and IVF shaped her perspective on parenting, leadership, and community service. She explains why supporting children early in life can change the trajectory of entire families and how compassion, connection, and belonging are at the heart of effective family support programs. The conversation also explores grief, infertility, resilience, optimism, and the importance of showing up for people during life’s hardest seasons.</p><h2><strong>What You’ll Learn</strong></h2><ul><li>Why early childhood intervention can create lifelong positive outcomes</li><li>How strong family support helps children thrive</li><li>The role compassion plays in effective social services</li><li>Why optimism and an abundance mindset can strengthen resilience</li><li>How adoption and IVF shaped Elizabeth’s parenting journey</li><li>The importance of supporting parents alongside their children</li><li>Why showing up matters when loved ones are experiencing grief or loss</li><li>How Head Start programs help children develop academically and emotionally</li><li>The value of inclusion, belonging, and community in child development</li><li>Why trusting your instincts is one of the most important parenting skills</li></ul><br/><h2><strong>About Elizabeth Wilberg</strong></h2><p>Elizabeth Wilberg is a nonprofit executive, writer, mother, and community advocate. She serves as Executive Director of Episcopal Community Services in San Diego, where she leads programs that support thousands of children, adults, and families each year. Through her work and writing, Elizabeth focuses on creating opportunities for families to build stability, resilience, and brighter futures.</p><h2><strong>Connect with Elizabeth</strong></h2><ul><li>LinkedIn:<u><a href="http://linkedin.com/in/elizabethwilberg" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> linkedin.com/in/elizabethwilberg</a></u></li><li>Blog<u><a href="http://substack.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">: https://substack.com/@elizabethwilberg</a></u></li></ul><br/><p><strong class="ql-size-large">Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></p><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Parent Confidence Lab by <u><a href="https://www.avocadohealth.ai" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Avocado Health</a></u>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</em></p><p class="ql-align-center"></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox.</em></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Sign up here: <a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></em></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2><strong>Episode Summary: </strong></h2><p>Parenting often requires balancing hope, resilience, and perseverance through both everyday challenges and life’s most difficult moments. Elizabeth Wilberg joins Hans and Cristina on the Parent Confidence Lab podcast to share her journey as a mother, nonprofit leader, and advocate for children and families. As Executive Director of Episcopal Community Services in San Diego, Elizabeth oversees programs that support early childhood education, children’s mental health, homelessness prevention, substance use recovery, and family stability.</p><p>Elizabeth discusses how her own path to motherhood through adoption and IVF shaped her perspective on parenting, leadership, and community service. She explains why supporting children early in life can change the trajectory of entire families and how compassion, connection, and belonging are at the heart of effective family support programs. The conversation also explores grief, infertility, resilience, optimism, and the importance of showing up for people during life’s hardest seasons.</p><h2><strong>What You’ll Learn</strong></h2><ul><li>Why early childhood intervention can create lifelong positive outcomes</li><li>How strong family support helps children thrive</li><li>The role compassion plays in effective social services</li><li>Why optimism and an abundance mindset can strengthen resilience</li><li>How adoption and IVF shaped Elizabeth’s parenting journey</li><li>The importance of supporting parents alongside their children</li><li>Why showing up matters when loved ones are experiencing grief or loss</li><li>How Head Start programs help children develop academically and emotionally</li><li>The value of inclusion, belonging, and community in child development</li><li>Why trusting your instincts is one of the most important parenting skills</li></ul><br/><h2><strong>About Elizabeth Wilberg</strong></h2><p>Elizabeth Wilberg is a nonprofit executive, writer, mother, and community advocate. She serves as Executive Director of Episcopal Community Services in San Diego, where she leads programs that support thousands of children, adults, and families each year. Through her work and writing, Elizabeth focuses on creating opportunities for families to build stability, resilience, and brighter futures.</p><h2><strong>Connect with Elizabeth</strong></h2><ul><li>LinkedIn:<u><a href="http://linkedin.com/in/elizabethwilberg" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> linkedin.com/in/elizabethwilberg</a></u></li><li>Blog<u><a href="http://substack.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">: https://substack.com/@elizabethwilberg</a></u></li></ul><br/><p><strong class="ql-size-large">Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></p><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Parent Confidence Lab by <u><a href="https://www.avocadohealth.ai" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Avocado Health</a></u>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</em></p><p class="ql-align-center"></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox.</em></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Sign up here: <a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></em></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://parent-confidence-lab.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">aeeeb6b3-dc81-45c3-baf9-5c504f877c23</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/b54da897-e5d5-41e8-ad7c-67ac2da7a065/elizabeth.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 24 Jun 2026 05:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/aeeeb6b3-dc81-45c3-baf9-5c504f877c23.mp3" length="35970035" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>37:28</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>What Parents Should Know About Rare Disease Research and Advocacy with Andrea Gropman</title><itunes:title>What Parents Should Know About Rare Disease Research and Advocacy with Andrea Gropman</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<h3><strong>Episode Summary </strong></h3><p>Rare diseases often leave families searching for answers in a system that doesn’t always recognize what’s happening. On this episode of Parent Confidence Lab, Hans and Cristina sit down with Dr. Andrea Gropman, pediatric neurologist, researcher, and leader in neurometabolic medicine, to discuss how patient stories, family advocacy, and scientific innovation are changing the future of rare disease diagnosis and treatment.</p><p>Drawing from more than two decades of research in urea cycle disorders and other rare metabolic conditions, Dr. Gropman explains how listening closely to families has led to groundbreaking discoveries, improved diagnostic approaches, and new therapies that are helping patients live not only longer, but better. She shares insights into genetic testing, personalized medicine, postpartum presentations of rare disorders, and why parents should trust their instincts when something feels wrong.</p><p>This conversation is both an educational deep dive into rare disease medicine and a powerful reminder of the role parents play in driving medical progress.</p><h3><strong>What You’ll Learn</strong></h3><ul><li>How a single patient inspired Dr. Gropman’s career in rare disease research</li><li>What urea cycle disorders are and how they affect the brain</li><li>Why many rare disease symptoms are missed or misdiagnosed</li><li>How patient advocacy groups have accelerated treatment development</li><li>The role of MRI imaging in understanding rare neurologic disorders</li><li>Why some women previously considered “carriers” actually experience symptoms</li><li>How genetic testing and whole genome sequencing are transforming diagnosis</li><li>Why parent observations are often critical diagnostic data</li><li>The challenges families face accessing rare disease treatments and testing</li><li>How personalized medicine and gene-editing therapies are changing the future of care</li><li>Why parents should continue advocating when they know something isn’t right</li><li>How family stories often reveal what medical tests cannot</li></ul><br/><h3><strong>About Dr. Andrea Gropman</strong></h3><p>Dr. Andrea Gropman is a pediatric neurologist, physician-scientist, and internationally recognized expert in neurometabolic and rare genetic disorders. She serves as Director of the Neurometabolic Translational Research Program and holds the Mark Tamer Endowed Chair for Pediatric Neurology at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Her research focuses on understanding how rare metabolic diseases affect the brain and developing innovative approaches to improve diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life for patients and families.</p><p>For more than 20 years, Dr. Gropman has worked alongside patient advocacy organizations, researchers, and clinicians to advance therapies for rare diseases, including urea cycle disorders. Her work has helped redefine disease understanding, improve patient outcomes, and support the development of emerging precision medicine approaches.</p><h3><strong>Connect with Dr. Andrea Gropman</strong></h3><ul><li>LinkedIn:<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-gropman-42311849?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-gropman-42311849?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Dr. Andrea Gropman</a></u></li></ul><br/><p><strong class="ql-size-large">Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></p><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Parent Confidence Lab by <u><a href="https://www.avocadohealth.ai" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Avocado Health</a></u>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</em></p><p class="ql-align-center"></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox.</em></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Sign up here: <a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></em></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<h3><strong>Episode Summary </strong></h3><p>Rare diseases often leave families searching for answers in a system that doesn’t always recognize what’s happening. On this episode of Parent Confidence Lab, Hans and Cristina sit down with Dr. Andrea Gropman, pediatric neurologist, researcher, and leader in neurometabolic medicine, to discuss how patient stories, family advocacy, and scientific innovation are changing the future of rare disease diagnosis and treatment.</p><p>Drawing from more than two decades of research in urea cycle disorders and other rare metabolic conditions, Dr. Gropman explains how listening closely to families has led to groundbreaking discoveries, improved diagnostic approaches, and new therapies that are helping patients live not only longer, but better. She shares insights into genetic testing, personalized medicine, postpartum presentations of rare disorders, and why parents should trust their instincts when something feels wrong.</p><p>This conversation is both an educational deep dive into rare disease medicine and a powerful reminder of the role parents play in driving medical progress.</p><h3><strong>What You’ll Learn</strong></h3><ul><li>How a single patient inspired Dr. Gropman’s career in rare disease research</li><li>What urea cycle disorders are and how they affect the brain</li><li>Why many rare disease symptoms are missed or misdiagnosed</li><li>How patient advocacy groups have accelerated treatment development</li><li>The role of MRI imaging in understanding rare neurologic disorders</li><li>Why some women previously considered “carriers” actually experience symptoms</li><li>How genetic testing and whole genome sequencing are transforming diagnosis</li><li>Why parent observations are often critical diagnostic data</li><li>The challenges families face accessing rare disease treatments and testing</li><li>How personalized medicine and gene-editing therapies are changing the future of care</li><li>Why parents should continue advocating when they know something isn’t right</li><li>How family stories often reveal what medical tests cannot</li></ul><br/><h3><strong>About Dr. Andrea Gropman</strong></h3><p>Dr. Andrea Gropman is a pediatric neurologist, physician-scientist, and internationally recognized expert in neurometabolic and rare genetic disorders. She serves as Director of the Neurometabolic Translational Research Program and holds the Mark Tamer Endowed Chair for Pediatric Neurology at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Her research focuses on understanding how rare metabolic diseases affect the brain and developing innovative approaches to improve diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life for patients and families.</p><p>For more than 20 years, Dr. Gropman has worked alongside patient advocacy organizations, researchers, and clinicians to advance therapies for rare diseases, including urea cycle disorders. Her work has helped redefine disease understanding, improve patient outcomes, and support the development of emerging precision medicine approaches.</p><h3><strong>Connect with Dr. Andrea Gropman</strong></h3><ul><li>LinkedIn:<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-gropman-42311849?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> </a><u><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-gropman-42311849?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Dr. Andrea Gropman</a></u></li></ul><br/><p><strong class="ql-size-large">Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></p><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Parent Confidence Lab by <u><a href="https://www.avocadohealth.ai" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Avocado Health</a></u>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</em></p><p class="ql-align-center"></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox.</em></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Sign up here: <a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></em></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://parent-confidence-lab.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">e47356cb-9590-4ac1-a706-70600c8a52b2</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/f8d13ab5-a554-48e0-a6ab-d2f9587c4170/dr-andrea.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 05:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/e47356cb-9590-4ac1-a706-70600c8a52b2.mp3" length="48723641" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>50:45</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Using Nature and Connection to Help Your Family Thrive with David Washington</title><itunes:title>Using Nature and Connection to Help Your Family Thrive with David Washington</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p><strong>Episode Summary</strong></p><p>Parenting can be overwhelming, especially when stress, anxiety, grief, and emotional challenges affect the entire family system. David Washington joins Hans and Cristina on the Parent Confidence Lab podcast to discuss how nature, connection, and nervous system regulation can support healthier relationships between parents and children. As a licensed clinical social worker and CEO and co-founder of The Planted Brain, David combines traditional mental health practices with horticultural therapy and trauma-informed care to help individuals and families heal.</p><p>From the science behind nature's impact on the nervous system to the importance of parental regulation, attachment, and fatherhood mental health, David shares practical strategies parents can use to create stronger connections with themselves, their children, and their communities. The conversation also explores postpartum depression in both mothers and fathers, the role of neuroplasticity in changing behaviors, and how simple shared experiences can strengthen family bonds.</p><h2><strong>What You'll Learn</strong></h2><ul><li>How nature and horticulture can support emotional regulation and mental health</li><li>Why nervous system safety is essential for healing and connection</li><li>The role of polyvagal theory in understanding stress, anxiety, and trauma</li><li>How parents' emotional states influence their children's behavior</li><li>What mirror neurons teach us about connection and co-regulation</li><li>Why parental self-regulation is one of the greatest gifts you can give your child</li><li>How neuroplasticity helps parents create healthier behavioral patterns</li><li>The importance of attachment and connection in early childhood development</li><li>Why fathers can experience postpartum depression and emotional challenges</li><li>Practical ways parents can connect with children through shared experiences and everyday activities</li><li>How nature-based activities can strengthen family relationships and emotional well-being</li><li>Why prioritizing self-care helps parents better support their children</li></ul><br/><h2><strong>About David Washington</strong></h2><p>David Washington is a licensed clinical social worker, therapist, and the CEO and co-founder of The Planted Brain, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit mental health organization dedicated to increasing access to culturally responsive mental health services for historically marginalized and under-resourced communities. Through a unique combination of trauma-informed care, psychotherapy, horticultural therapy, and nature-based healing practices, David helps individuals and families build resilience, strengthen relationships, and improve emotional well-being.</p><h2><strong>Connect with David</strong></h2><ul><li><strong>Headway:</strong> <a href="https://care.headway.co/providers/david-washington" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://care.headway.co/providers/david-washington</a></li><li><strong>The Planted Brain:</strong> <a href="theplantedbrain.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">theplantedbrain.org</a></li></ul><br/><p><strong class="ql-size-large">Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></p><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Parent Confidence Lab by <u><a href="https://www.avocadohealth.ai" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Avocado Health</a></u>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</em></p><p class="ql-align-center"></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox.</em></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Sign up here: <a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></em></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Episode Summary</strong></p><p>Parenting can be overwhelming, especially when stress, anxiety, grief, and emotional challenges affect the entire family system. David Washington joins Hans and Cristina on the Parent Confidence Lab podcast to discuss how nature, connection, and nervous system regulation can support healthier relationships between parents and children. As a licensed clinical social worker and CEO and co-founder of The Planted Brain, David combines traditional mental health practices with horticultural therapy and trauma-informed care to help individuals and families heal.</p><p>From the science behind nature's impact on the nervous system to the importance of parental regulation, attachment, and fatherhood mental health, David shares practical strategies parents can use to create stronger connections with themselves, their children, and their communities. The conversation also explores postpartum depression in both mothers and fathers, the role of neuroplasticity in changing behaviors, and how simple shared experiences can strengthen family bonds.</p><h2><strong>What You'll Learn</strong></h2><ul><li>How nature and horticulture can support emotional regulation and mental health</li><li>Why nervous system safety is essential for healing and connection</li><li>The role of polyvagal theory in understanding stress, anxiety, and trauma</li><li>How parents' emotional states influence their children's behavior</li><li>What mirror neurons teach us about connection and co-regulation</li><li>Why parental self-regulation is one of the greatest gifts you can give your child</li><li>How neuroplasticity helps parents create healthier behavioral patterns</li><li>The importance of attachment and connection in early childhood development</li><li>Why fathers can experience postpartum depression and emotional challenges</li><li>Practical ways parents can connect with children through shared experiences and everyday activities</li><li>How nature-based activities can strengthen family relationships and emotional well-being</li><li>Why prioritizing self-care helps parents better support their children</li></ul><br/><h2><strong>About David Washington</strong></h2><p>David Washington is a licensed clinical social worker, therapist, and the CEO and co-founder of The Planted Brain, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit mental health organization dedicated to increasing access to culturally responsive mental health services for historically marginalized and under-resourced communities. Through a unique combination of trauma-informed care, psychotherapy, horticultural therapy, and nature-based healing practices, David helps individuals and families build resilience, strengthen relationships, and improve emotional well-being.</p><h2><strong>Connect with David</strong></h2><ul><li><strong>Headway:</strong> <a href="https://care.headway.co/providers/david-washington" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://care.headway.co/providers/david-washington</a></li><li><strong>The Planted Brain:</strong> <a href="theplantedbrain.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">theplantedbrain.org</a></li></ul><br/><p><strong class="ql-size-large">Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></p><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Parent Confidence Lab by <u><a href="https://www.avocadohealth.ai" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Avocado Health</a></u>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</em></p><p class="ql-align-center"></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox.</em></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Sign up here: <a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></em></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://parent-confidence-lab.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">abacad12-be9b-4f38-a9ba-926b035f745c</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/faa96400-674a-4130-9682-4b4556ec12cc/David-Washington.jpg"/><pubDate>Tue, 16 Jun 2026 05:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/abacad12-be9b-4f38-a9ba-926b035f745c.mp3" length="46309927" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>48:14</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>How to Set Boundaries as a Working Parent Without the Guilt with Sara Sweat</title><itunes:title>How to Set Boundaries as a Working Parent Without the Guilt with Sara Sweat</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<h2><strong>Episode Summary</strong></h2><p>Balancing work, parenting, and personal well-being can leave many parents feeling exhausted and stretched too thin. Sara Sweat joins Hans and Cristina on the Parent Confidence Lab podcast to discuss why healthy boundaries are essential for working parents and how they can be used to protect time, energy, and family connection. Drawing from her experience as a trauma-informed coach and founder of Monarch, Sara explains the difference between boundaries, expectations, standards, and rules while offering practical tools parents can use immediately.</p><p>From managing emotional energy and handling tantrums to creating non-negotiable calendar priorities and communicating boundaries effectively, Sara shares actionable strategies that help parents avoid burnout while showing up as their best selves at home and at work.</p><h2><strong>What You'll Learn</strong></h2><ul><li>What healthy boundaries actually are and why they are often misunderstood</li><li>The difference between boundaries, expectations, standards, and rules</li><li>How to protect your time, energy, and emotional well-being as a working parent</li><li>Why energy management matters more than time management</li><li>How small daily habits can create meaningful emotional and mental deposits</li><li>The power of moving from "furious" to "curious" during parenting challenges</li><li>Why calendars should include personal and family priorities, not just work commitments</li><li>How short, repeatable phrases can help reinforce boundaries during stressful moments</li><li>The role of rituals and visual cues in creating consistent family boundaries</li><li>Why self-care and boundary-setting allow parents to care for others more sustainably</li></ul><br/><h2><strong>About Sara Sweat</strong></h2><p>Sara Sweat is a trauma-informed coach, founder of Monarch, and advisor to Avocado Health. With a background spanning healthcare technology, leadership, and counseling, she helps individuals and organizations apply human psychology principles to improve resilience, performance, and well-being. Her work focuses on helping high achievers create sustainable success through healthy boundaries, emotional awareness, and intentional growth.</p><h2><strong>Connect with Sara</strong></h2><ul><li><strong>LinkedIn:</strong> <a href="linkedin.com/in/sara-sweat" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">linkedin.com/in/sara-sweat</a></li><li><strong>Website:</strong> <a href="monarchsup.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">monarchsup.com</a></li></ul><br/><p><strong class="ql-size-large">Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></p><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Parent Confidence Lab by <u><a href="https://www.avocadohealth.ai" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Avocado Health</a></u>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</em></p><p class="ql-align-center"></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox.</em></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Sign up here: <a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></em></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2><strong>Episode Summary</strong></h2><p>Balancing work, parenting, and personal well-being can leave many parents feeling exhausted and stretched too thin. Sara Sweat joins Hans and Cristina on the Parent Confidence Lab podcast to discuss why healthy boundaries are essential for working parents and how they can be used to protect time, energy, and family connection. Drawing from her experience as a trauma-informed coach and founder of Monarch, Sara explains the difference between boundaries, expectations, standards, and rules while offering practical tools parents can use immediately.</p><p>From managing emotional energy and handling tantrums to creating non-negotiable calendar priorities and communicating boundaries effectively, Sara shares actionable strategies that help parents avoid burnout while showing up as their best selves at home and at work.</p><h2><strong>What You'll Learn</strong></h2><ul><li>What healthy boundaries actually are and why they are often misunderstood</li><li>The difference between boundaries, expectations, standards, and rules</li><li>How to protect your time, energy, and emotional well-being as a working parent</li><li>Why energy management matters more than time management</li><li>How small daily habits can create meaningful emotional and mental deposits</li><li>The power of moving from "furious" to "curious" during parenting challenges</li><li>Why calendars should include personal and family priorities, not just work commitments</li><li>How short, repeatable phrases can help reinforce boundaries during stressful moments</li><li>The role of rituals and visual cues in creating consistent family boundaries</li><li>Why self-care and boundary-setting allow parents to care for others more sustainably</li></ul><br/><h2><strong>About Sara Sweat</strong></h2><p>Sara Sweat is a trauma-informed coach, founder of Monarch, and advisor to Avocado Health. With a background spanning healthcare technology, leadership, and counseling, she helps individuals and organizations apply human psychology principles to improve resilience, performance, and well-being. Her work focuses on helping high achievers create sustainable success through healthy boundaries, emotional awareness, and intentional growth.</p><h2><strong>Connect with Sara</strong></h2><ul><li><strong>LinkedIn:</strong> <a href="linkedin.com/in/sara-sweat" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">linkedin.com/in/sara-sweat</a></li><li><strong>Website:</strong> <a href="monarchsup.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">monarchsup.com</a></li></ul><br/><p><strong class="ql-size-large">Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></p><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Parent Confidence Lab by <u><a href="https://www.avocadohealth.ai" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Avocado Health</a></u>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</em></p><p class="ql-align-center"></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox.</em></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Sign up here: <a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></em></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://parent-confidence-lab.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">3aa1981b-fb2d-4676-977a-77af5aba8ddd</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/79f98a2f-1ed2-47b2-a4b9-789a1752ea4a/Sara.jpg"/><pubDate>Mon, 15 Jun 2026 02:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/3aa1981b-fb2d-4676-977a-77af5aba8ddd.mp3" length="26063984" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>27:09</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>How to Stay Calm, Connected, and Confident in Parenting&apos;s Toughest Moments with Angie Weber</title><itunes:title>How to Stay Calm, Connected, and Confident in Parenting&apos;s Toughest Moments with Angie Weber</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<p><strong class="ql-size-large">Episode Summary</strong></p><p>Parenting can feel overwhelming, especially during stressful mornings, sibling fights, emotional meltdowns, and the constant pressure to “get it right.” Angie Weber joins Hans and Cristina on the Parent Confidence Lab podcast to share her CALM Approach to Parenting, a practical framework designed to help parents regulate emotions, communicate more effectively, and build stronger family connections. From emotional regulation and family meetings to co-parenting and divorce support, Angie offers honest, actionable advice for parents navigating the chaos of everyday family life.</p><p><strong class="ql-size-large">What You’ll Learn</strong></p><ul><li>The four pillars of Angie’s CALM parenting framework</li><li>Why emotional regulation starts with the parent first</li><li>How giving children choices reduces power struggles</li><li>The difference between consequences and ultimatums</li><li>Why family meetings can improve communication and reduce stress</li><li>How parents can recognize emotional triggers before reacting</li><li>Why giving yourself grace is essential in parenting</li><li>How co-parenting tools can strengthen family relationships after divorce</li></ul><br/><p><strong class="ql-size-large">About Angie Weber</strong></p><p>Angie Weber is a parent coach, speaker, CEO of The Parent Toolbox, and director of the Divorce Support Collective. Through her coaching programs, parenting tools, and educational resources, Angie helps parents build calmer homes, stronger emotional connections, and healthier communication habits with their children and partners.</p><p><strong class="ql-size-large">Connect with Angie</strong></p><ul><li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/angieweber/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">linkedin.com/in/angieweber</a></li><li>The Parent Toolbox: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/safety/go/?url=https%3A%2F%2Ftheparenttoolbox%2Einfo&amp;urlhash=ZdGN&amp;mt=jo2Sm7SxwrxnH4AKT0m6IPnsIh8IhS6Xwbdyc8gsjFMJybh17VkA9O9dampIQx634gglQI9D8onp_SQdMokKzdhkov8&amp;isSdui=true" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">theparenttoolbox.info</a></li><li>Divorce Support Collective</li></ul><br/><p><strong class="ql-size-large">Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></p><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Parent Confidence Lab by <u><a href="https://www.avocadohealth.ai" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Avocado Health</a></u>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</em></p><p class="ql-align-center"></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox.</em></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Sign up here: <a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></em></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong class="ql-size-large">Episode Summary</strong></p><p>Parenting can feel overwhelming, especially during stressful mornings, sibling fights, emotional meltdowns, and the constant pressure to “get it right.” Angie Weber joins Hans and Cristina on the Parent Confidence Lab podcast to share her CALM Approach to Parenting, a practical framework designed to help parents regulate emotions, communicate more effectively, and build stronger family connections. From emotional regulation and family meetings to co-parenting and divorce support, Angie offers honest, actionable advice for parents navigating the chaos of everyday family life.</p><p><strong class="ql-size-large">What You’ll Learn</strong></p><ul><li>The four pillars of Angie’s CALM parenting framework</li><li>Why emotional regulation starts with the parent first</li><li>How giving children choices reduces power struggles</li><li>The difference between consequences and ultimatums</li><li>Why family meetings can improve communication and reduce stress</li><li>How parents can recognize emotional triggers before reacting</li><li>Why giving yourself grace is essential in parenting</li><li>How co-parenting tools can strengthen family relationships after divorce</li></ul><br/><p><strong class="ql-size-large">About Angie Weber</strong></p><p>Angie Weber is a parent coach, speaker, CEO of The Parent Toolbox, and director of the Divorce Support Collective. Through her coaching programs, parenting tools, and educational resources, Angie helps parents build calmer homes, stronger emotional connections, and healthier communication habits with their children and partners.</p><p><strong class="ql-size-large">Connect with Angie</strong></p><ul><li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/angieweber/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">linkedin.com/in/angieweber</a></li><li>The Parent Toolbox: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/safety/go/?url=https%3A%2F%2Ftheparenttoolbox%2Einfo&amp;urlhash=ZdGN&amp;mt=jo2Sm7SxwrxnH4AKT0m6IPnsIh8IhS6Xwbdyc8gsjFMJybh17VkA9O9dampIQx634gglQI9D8onp_SQdMokKzdhkov8&amp;isSdui=true" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">theparenttoolbox.info</a></li><li>Divorce Support Collective</li></ul><br/><p><strong class="ql-size-large">Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></p><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Parent Confidence Lab by <u><a href="https://www.avocadohealth.ai" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Avocado Health</a></u>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</em></p><p class="ql-align-center"></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox.</em></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Sign up here: <a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></em></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://parent-confidence-lab.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">cc5d775f-0b32-4d30-b8de-33bd8a409d2d</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/d0ec7db7-6a6e-4258-a290-a1c698d40d8a/Angie-Weber.jpg"/><pubDate>Wed, 27 May 2026 09:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/cc5d775f-0b32-4d30-b8de-33bd8a409d2d.mp3" length="35882263" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>37:23</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>What Every New Parent Should Know with Pediatrician Alex Butler</title><itunes:title>What Every New Parent Should Know with Pediatrician Alex Butler</itunes:title><description><![CDATA[<h2><strong>Episode Summary</strong></h2><p>Most parents leave pediatric appointments with unanswered questions, and most healthcare tech ignores that. Dr. Alex Butler, pediatric hospitalist at Boston Children’s Hospital and founder of Alcott, joins Hans and Cristina to talk about why families are left out of healthcare innovation and what we can do about it. If you’ve ever walked out of a doctor’s visit wishing you’d said more, this one’s for you.</p><h2><strong>What You’ll Learn</strong></h2><ul><li>Why parents are the most underutilized resource in pediatric care</li><li>How to make the most of a 15-minute doctor’s appointment</li><li>What AI tools like Alcott are doing to empower families</li><li>How to trust your gut, even when a doctor pushes back</li><li>Why social media sets unrealistic parenting expectations</li></ul><br/><h2><strong>About Alex Butler</strong></h2><p>Dr. Alex Butler is a pediatric hospitalist at Boston Children’s Hospital and founder of <u><a href="https://alcottai.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Alcott</a></u>, a free tool that helps parents prepare for and get more out of every healthcare visit.</p><h2><strong>Connect with Alex</strong></h2><ul><li>LinkedIn: <u><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-m-butler/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Alex Butler</a></u></li><li>Alcott: <u><a href="https://alcottai.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">alcottai.com</a></u></li></ul><br/><h2><strong>Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></h2><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p class="ql-align-center"></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Parent Confidence Lab by <u><a href="https://www.avocadohealth.ai" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Avocado Health</a></u>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</em></p><p class="ql-align-center"></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox.</em></p><p class="ql-align-center"> <em>Sign up here: <a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></em></p><p class="ql-align-center"></p>]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2><strong>Episode Summary</strong></h2><p>Most parents leave pediatric appointments with unanswered questions, and most healthcare tech ignores that. Dr. Alex Butler, pediatric hospitalist at Boston Children’s Hospital and founder of Alcott, joins Hans and Cristina to talk about why families are left out of healthcare innovation and what we can do about it. If you’ve ever walked out of a doctor’s visit wishing you’d said more, this one’s for you.</p><h2><strong>What You’ll Learn</strong></h2><ul><li>Why parents are the most underutilized resource in pediatric care</li><li>How to make the most of a 15-minute doctor’s appointment</li><li>What AI tools like Alcott are doing to empower families</li><li>How to trust your gut, even when a doctor pushes back</li><li>Why social media sets unrealistic parenting expectations</li></ul><br/><h2><strong>About Alex Butler</strong></h2><p>Dr. Alex Butler is a pediatric hospitalist at Boston Children’s Hospital and founder of <u><a href="https://alcottai.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Alcott</a></u>, a free tool that helps parents prepare for and get more out of every healthcare visit.</p><h2><strong>Connect with Alex</strong></h2><ul><li>LinkedIn: <u><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-m-butler/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Alex Butler</a></u></li><li>Alcott: <u><a href="https://alcottai.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">alcottai.com</a></u></li></ul><br/><h2><strong>Listen &amp; Subscribe</strong></h2><ul><li>Apple Podcasts</li><li>Spotify</li><li>Amazon Music</li><li>YouTube</li><li>iHeart Radio</li><li>Captivate</li></ul><br/><p class="ql-align-center"></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Parent Confidence Lab by <u><a href="https://www.avocadohealth.ai" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Avocado Health</a></u>, your parenting partner in your pocket.</em></p><p class="ql-align-center"></p><p class="ql-align-center"><em>Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox.</em></p><p class="ql-align-center"> <em>Sign up here: <a href="https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/</a></em></p><p class="ql-align-center"></p>]]></content:encoded><link><![CDATA[https://parent-confidence-lab.captivate.fm]]></link><guid isPermaLink="false">2497d8ac-6f70-4aab-b7ff-17e1b7dbd171</guid><itunes:image href="https://artwork.captivate.fm/82000fe2-ae30-4ead-a212-60495c63d351/Alex.jpg"/><pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 09:00:00 -0400</pubDate><enclosure url="https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/2497d8ac-6f70-4aab-b7ff-17e1b7dbd171.mp3" length="46356739" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:duration>48:17</itunes:duration><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item></channel></rss>