Parenting Great Kids With Dr. Meg Meeker

In this episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with Joe Hashey to discuss balancing career ambitions with a thriving family life.Joe, a former educator turned fitness leader, shares his journey of recognizing work-family imbalance and the steps he took to correct it. After his father’s passing, he re-evaluated his family’s health and values, leading to The Strong Family Project—a structured approach to parenting that helps families:✅ Define core values ✅ Build consistent routines ✅ Strengthen family bonds through daily habitsDr. Meeker and Joe discuss the 7 Pillars of Personal Development, covering morning routines, family meetings, and strategies for co-parenting. They offer practical advice on child development, screen time boundaries, family traditions, and fostering resilience in kids.Episode Highlights:

With Valentine’s Day just behind us, many parents are reflecting on teen dating—when it should start, what rules to set, and how to guide their kids through relationships. In this Ask Dr. Meg episode of the Parenting Great Kids podcast, Dr. Meg Meeker answers the most common questions from parents, covering everything from the right age to start dating to setting healthy boundaries and expectations.She emphasizes the importance of open communication, encouraging parents to involve their teens in setting dating guidelines. Dr. Meeker also shares why she advises against high school dating due to its emotional impact and potential for heartbreak, advocating instead for strong friendships. Additionally, she highlights practical strategies for helping teens make informed choices, such as role-playing real-life scenarios and setting non-negotiable character traits for future partners.This episode is part one of a two-part series on teen dating. In part two, we’ll hear from a young adult who reflects on what she wis

“Authenticity isn’t about staying the same—it’s about being true to yourself across life’s many roles.” In this episode, media personality Jeanne Sparrow shares how she has embraced authenticity throughout her career and personal life, offering practical lessons for maintaining genuine connections. From interviewing iconic figures to navigating personal relationships, Jeanne reveals how to balance shifting roles while remaining true to yourself.This episode is packed with actionable advice for parents and professionals, highlighting the importance of setting boundaries, listening generously, and building authentic connections that foster trust and growth.Ready to take the next step in your parenting journey? Connect 1:1 with Dr. Meg for personalized coaching tailored to your family’s needs.Time-Stamped Highlights: 00:00 Understanding Authenticity Across Life’s Roles 00:43 Career Lessons and Staying Genuine 05:19 Parental Expectations and Authenticity 08:07 The Importance of Setting Boundaries 08:40 Pract

In this episode, we delve into the journey of sobriety with Chris Janssen, MA, BCC, author of Grace Yourself: How to Show Up for the Sober Life You Want. Chris shares her inspiring story, from recognizing her own drinking problem to the pivotal moment that led her to seek help. She provides valuable insights into understanding addiction, managing family and social dynamics, and the importance of building a supportive community.Listeners will also gain practical advice on navigating difficult family conversations about alcohol use and preventing substance use in their children. This episode offers empowering strategies for individuals and families striving for a healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle. Whether you’re reflecting on your own relationship with alcohol or seeking ways to support loved ones, this conversation delivers inspiration and actionable tips for embracing a sober, balanced life.Visit us online for access to free resources and book your coaching session with Dr. Meg.About Chris JanssenChris

In this episode of Parenting Great Kids with Dr. Meg Meeker, Dr. Meg is joined by Julie Ryan McGue—an award-winning writer, domestic adoptee, and identical twin—to dive deep into the complexities of adoption and identity. Julie opens up about her journey of growing up as an adoptee, the emotional impact of being part of a closed adoption, and her search for birth relatives to uncover critical medical history.Listeners will gain valuable insights as Julie discusses: The emotional and psychological challenges of being part of a closed adoption. The importance of open communication between adoptive parents and children. How adoptees can navigate their unique struggles with belonging and self-identity. The role of support groups in fostering community and understanding. Julie also shares her perspective on the generational and emotional struggles often tied to adoption, highlighting how openness and honesty can help adopted children cultivate a positive sense of self.This episode offers invaluable takeaways for a

Join Dr. Meg Meeker for a meaningful conversation with Jim Burns, founder of HomeWord, on navigating conversations about sexuality with kids in today’s social media-driven world. They discuss how societal norms and digital influences shape children’s perceptions of sex and share practical strategies for parents to approach sex education with confidence and clarity. From handling awkward moments to addressing topics like pornography and sexual abuse, this episode offers valuable insights to help parents provide value-centered, ongoing guidance in a culture often filled with negative messaging.Key Moments:00:00 Introduction to Today's Episode00:41 Meet Dr. Meg Meeker and Jim Burns00:58 The Importance of Talking About Sex with Kids01:24 Challenges Parents Face03:08 Church and Sexuality04:13 Cultural Influences on Sexuality06:38 Effective Communication Strategies22:49 Addressing Pornography and Its Impact32:08 Concluding Thoughts and ResourcesNeed parenting help? Grab a coaching spot with Dr. Meg Meeker!Featured

Mothers often carry an invisible mental load—managing schedules, making decisions, and handling emotional labor for their families. On this episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker offers practical parenting advice to help moms ease that burden and break free from the relentless pressure to "do it all." She’s joined by Dr. Whitney Casares, author, pediatrician and founder of Modern Mommy Doc . Together, they explore why emotional well-being, not productivity, is the key to happier, healthier parenting. The conversation covers actionable strategies for moms to set boundaries, reduce the influence of social media, and let go of guilt. Listeners will learn practical tools to create healthier home environments and embrace a balanced, fulfilling life for themselves and their families.Key Moments: 00:00 Introduction to Overachieving Moms01:43 The Mental Load of Motherhood05:01 Societal Pressures and Technology06:02 The Impact of Social Media on Moms09:38 The Centered Life Blueprint13:56 Strategies for Managi

Teaching manners to teens might seem old-fashioned, but in today’s complex social landscape, it’s more important than ever. In this episode, Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with Brooke Romney, author of 52 Modern Manners for Today's Teens, to explore how modern etiquette can boost teens' confidence, strengthen their relationships, and open doors to new opportunities.Brooke shares the inspiration behind her bestselling book series and highlights five essential manners every teen should know, from introducing themselves confidently to navigating their online presence mindfully. Packed with practical tips, this episode is a must-listen for parents looking to raise socially savvy and emotionally intelligent kids.Need parenting help? Grab a coaching spot with Dr. Meg Meeker!Featured Guest:Brooke Romney, bestselling author of 52 Modern Manners for Today’s Teens, has transformed the way families approach social skills. Her practical, weekly tips help parents teach kids how to connect meaningfully with others. Follow her on

Holiday stress is a challenge many parents, especially mothers, face each year. In this special episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker shares her personal insights to help you navigate the season with peace and joy. Instead of featuring a guest, this episode is all about Dr. Meg’s timeless advice on how to make the holidays meaningful for your family. From managing expectations to fostering deeper connections, you’ll walk away with practical tools to embrace a joyful, stress-free season. Need parenting help? Grab a coaching spot with Dr. Meg Meeker! Key Moments:00:50 Understanding Holiday Stress and Fear01:37 Facing Fears and Managing Expectations04:27 Tips to De-Stress Your Holidays04:48 Shifting Expectations for Yourself and Others08:22 Being Okay with Letting Others Down11:52 Encouraging Kids to Give16:43 Setting Boundaries and House Rules24:03 Taking a Break from Stressful Activities25:27 The Power of Prayer with Your Kids31:17 Final Thoughts and EncouragementOur Sponsors:Stay warm this season wi

Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with former NFL linebacker and college football hall of famer David Pollack to explore his inspiring journey from professional athlete to author of the new book The Won’t Quit Kid. Pollack shares how a career-ending neck injury transformed his life, strengthening his faith and deepening his personal resilience. His story is one of perseverance, growth, and the power of embracing life’s unexpected challenges.Need parenting help? Grab a coaching spot with Dr. Meg Meeker!Key Moments:00:36 David Pollack's Journey: From NFL to Author01:49 The Impact of a Career-Ending Injury02:12 Faith and Resilience Through Adversity03:33 Lessons Learned and Personal Growth07:02 The Won't Quit Kid: Inspiration Behind the Book09:31 Coaching and Mentorship: Building Future Leaders10:47 Balancing Sports and Life: Advice for Parents15:43 The Importance of Role Models and Mentors18:02 Navigating Modern Parenting Challenges20:29 Parental Concerns About Teen Parties21:28 Transitioning from NFL to Broadcasting23:

Parental anxiety can significantly influence a child’s emotional well-being, but there are ways to create a calm, stable home. Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with Dr. John Deloney, a two-time #1 national bestselling author with two PhDs and over 20 years of counseling experience, to discuss how parents can reduce anxiety and foster a healthy environment for their kids. This episode explores how children mirror their parents' emotions and why addressing parental mental health is crucial.Insights include managing screen time, avoiding the trap of using children’s achievements as validation, and embracing intentional family interactions. Dr. Deloney shares actionable strategies for building strong parent-child connections through attunement, fostering emotional security, and practical steps to reduce household stress. Tune in to learn how to transform your home into a non-anxious space where children can thrive.Need parenting help? Grab a coaching spot with Dr. Meg Meeker! Key Moments: 02:03 Understanding and Managing

Bedwetting is a common and often misunderstood issue that many families face, especially with boys. Drawing on her extensive experience as a pediatrician, Dr. Meg Meeker dedicates this solo episode to unpacking the causes, misconceptions, and practical solutions for managing bedwetting. She reassures parents that this is not their child’s fault and highlights the role genetics often play. Dr. Meeker shares actionable tips, such as using mattress covers, addressing underlying health conditions like constipation or infections, and considering tools like bed monitors or medication. She also emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive, blame-free environment to help children navigate embarrassment and build confidence.Key Moments: 00:00 Introduction to Bedwetting 00:21 Understanding Bedwetting 00:41 Causes and Misconceptions 02:01 Practical Solutions for Parents 03:11 Medical Considerations 05:20 Addressing Constipation 08:16 Medication and Bed Monitors 11:45 Final Tips and Encouragement Need paren

Navigating the often turbulent waters of raising teenagers can feel like a never-ending cycle of setting boundaries while trying to maintain trust. As parents, we frequently find ourselves at a crossroads, unsure of which direction to take. It's comforting to know that we're not alone in this journey. In this episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker welcomes Sean Donohue, a renowned parenting coach widely known for his relatable advice on platforms like TikTok. Sean shares his personal journey from a disconnected teenager to a dedicated father, guided in part by Dr. Meeker’s book, Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters. Together, they explore the complex dynamics of raising teenagers, emphasizing the power of connection, love, and resilience in parenting.Throughout their conversation, Dr. Meeker and Sean discuss the impact of divorce, how to foster emotional availability, and the unique challenges fathers face today. Sean’s insights underscore the value of validating teenagers' experiences and creating a sup

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

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

In today's fast-paced, digital world, understanding Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is more crucial than ever for parents and educators. In this episode, Dr. Meg Meeker speaks with psychologist Dr. Katia Fredriksen, an expert in ADHD research, to explore key aspects of the disorder. They cover everything from identifying early symptoms to navigating the diagnosis and treatment process, offering practical strategies on how to approach ADHD with empathy and care.Key Moments:00:23 Meet Dr. Katia Fredriksen00:47 Understanding ADHD Symptoms02:56 Diagnosing ADHD: A Comprehensive Approach04:14 Neuropsychological Assessment Explained06:59 The Importance of Accurate Diagnosis12:53 Balancing Medication and Other Treatments15:23 School Accommodations for ADHD17:35 Parenting Strategies for ADHD20:25 Addressing Common Concerns26:21 Concluding Thoughts and ResourcesAbout Our Guest:Our guest is Dr. Katia Fredriksen, she holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Princeton University and a doctoral degree i

In this episode of the Parenting Great Kids podcast, renowned parenting expert Dr. Meg Meeker welcomes Kyle Idleman, senior pastor at Southeast Christian Church and best-selling author. Together, they explore the common struggle many parents face: prioritizing productivity over building meaningful connections with their children. Drawing from his book When Your Way Isn't Working, Kyle shares valuable insights from his own experience, emphasizing the importance of connection in both parenting and personal growth.Key Moments: 00:00 Introduction to Parenting Challenges00:39 Meet Kyle Eidelman: Author and Pastor01:13 The Journey of Writing the Book03:27 Production vs. Connection: A Dichotomy05:17 Personal Struggles and Realizations06:06 The Role of an Executive Coach15:27 The Importance of Asking for Help24:06 The Vine and the Branches: A Biblical Perspective33:21 Practical Tips for Parents and Executives35:29 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsNeed parenting advice? Grab one of Dr. Meg's coaching spots here.Watch toda

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

Did you know that having a mentor can reduce the likelihood of young people developing drug and alcohol issues by 80 percent? Substance abuse is often a contributing factor in teen suicide, making mentorship a key element in safeguarding teens from both. On Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker is joined by Leslie Weirch, who shares her deeply personal journey after losing her son Austin to suicide. Together, they explore the protective factors against suicide, including mentorship, and how these can help shield teens from substance abuse and mental health struggles.Key moments:00:36 A Mother's Tragic Story: The Loss of Austin02:11 Austin's Life and Achievements05:03 The Night That Changed Everything07:26 Turning Pain into Purpose: Leslie's Mission08:53 Mental Health Awareness and Prevention16:43 Leslie's Speaking Journey and Impact19:55 Sources of Strength: A Preventative Approach25:52 Protective Factors for Mental Health34:11 Conclusion: The Importance of Connection and SupportNeed parenting advice? Grab one