Alle afleveringen
737 afleveringen, van nieuw naar oud
-
TPP 476: Rebecca Duffus & Lyric Rivera on Supporting Kids Autistic Identity Development
25 november 2025 · 41 min
Today’s conversation is all about understanding and supporting autistic identity—how it develops, why it matters, and the ways parents and educators can help nurture it. I’m joined by Rebecca Duffus and Lyric Rivera, two incredible advocates doing powerful work in this space, and the authors of the new Autism, Identity & Me workbook for kids, and the accompanying professional and parent guide of the same name. In our conversation, we talk about the importance of identity development for autistic young people, the current state of neurodivergent education, and how parents and caregivers can foster a positive, affirming understanding of neurodiversity. We also dig into the “superpower” narrative—when it helps, when it doesn’t—and how to use Rebecca and Lyric’s Autism, Identity & Me workbook as a practical tool for ongoing conversations about identity, acceptance, and self-understanding. Lees meer
About Rebecca Duffus
Rebecca Duffus BSc, PGCE, MA is an experienced Advisory Teacher with a Psychology Degree and a Masters in Autism and Education. She has many years of experience working with students and educators in both mainstream and specialist education settings as well as within local councils, charities and education services. Rebecca has been a speaker at conferences across the UK, developed a range of parent programmes, and provides training and coaching for settings.Rebeca is the author of the Autism, Identity & Me Workbook and Guidebook set published by Routledge.
About Lyric Rivera
Lyric Rivera, an autistic self-advocate from Texas, is a prominent figure in the field of neurodiversity and autism advocacy. Over the years, Lyric has educated millions about autism and neuro-inclusion through their blog, NeuroDivergent Rebel, their consulting organization, NeuroDivergent Consulting, and their best-selling business ethics book, Workplace Neurodiversity Rising.
Things you'll learn from this episode
Why understanding and affirming identity is central to empowering autist…
-
TPP 124b: Seth Perler on How Parents Can Help Their Kids Work Through Resistance
21 november 2025 · 1 uur 29 min
Executive functioning/education coach Seth Perler explores the concept of resistance in differently-wired kids and shares strategies and tools for how parents can support their kids in learning how to face their resistance.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Lees meer -
TPP 475: Dr. Tamar Chansky on Freeing Your Child from OCD
18 november 2025 · 37 min
Today we’re unpacking a topic that so many families struggle to understand—Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, or OCD—especially when it shows up in children. My guest is Dr. Tamar Chansky, a clinical psychologist and author of the newly updated and revised edition of her seminal book Freeing Your Child from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. In our conversation, Tamar and I talk about how our understanding of OCD has evolved over the past 25 years, what intrusive thoughts really are, and how parents can recognize and respond to them with compassion and clarity. Tamar walks us through her five-step approach for helping kids manage OCD effectively, and she offers a message of hope—reminding us that with the right support, children can learn to take charge of their thoughts and lead full, joyful lives. Lees meer
About Tamar E. Chansky, Ph.D.
Tamar E. Chansky, Ph.D., founder of the Children’s and Adult Center for OCD and Anxiety, has helped thousands of children overcome fears and gripping mental compulsions. She is also the author of Freeing Your Child from Negative Thinking, Freeing Your Child from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and Freeing Yourself from Anxiety.
Things you'll learn from this episode
How OCD can deeply impact family life and why awareness and understanding make such a difference
Why recognizing the difference between typical anxiety and OCD is key to getting the right support
How intrusive thoughts are more common than many realize—and can be effectively managed with treatment
Why parents play a central role in helping children navigate OCD using structured, behavior-focused approaches
How the five-step model empowers families to support change without reinforcing compulsions
Why education, support, and understanding can ease parental fears and lead to better outcomes for kids
Resources mentioned
Dr. Tamar Chansky’s website
Freeing Your Child from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Powerful, Practical Program for Parents of Children and Adolescents (Updated …
-
TPP 097b: A Masterclass in Executive Functioning with Seth Perler (Part 2 of 2)
14 november 2025 · 41 min
This week is a continuation of last week’s episode with executive functioning coach Seth Perler, which was so packed full of information (and also so long) that I had to break it up into two separate episodes, which I’m now referring to as a “masterclass” in executive functioning. Lees meer
In last week’s episode, Seth shared his protocol for setting up a child for success in their developing executive functioning skills. In today’s episode, Seth is going to get into the nitty gritty about specific strategies he uses to address different executive functioning challenges that show up in school and in life.
THINGS YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE:
* What “Frankenstudy” is, and how to know where to focus your energies so you can create a “domino effect” with your child’s fledgling executive functioning skills
* How to best use “learning planners” to learn how to think / talk through their plan (and what we’re doing wrong)
* The benefits of monthly planners versus daily or weekly planners
* Helping kids identify the “MIT” – most important thing – each day
* The importance of creating a sacred study space for a child
* How to optimize an internet browser to make it easy with bookmark bars (and have tabs automatically open, including calendar, grade tab, email)
* Why it’s important to get kids to start checking grades weekly (Seth recommends Sunday nights)
* The importance of helping a child create clearly identified routines (for leaving house, doing daily plan, doing homework, etc.)
* How getting visual with kids benefits them in developing their executive functioning skills
* Why separate digital timers need to be a part of a child’s life so they can learn to calibrate time, as well as get started and do short bursts of work
* Creating a weekly overhaul of systems
* The important of kids “getting into the mode” for studying, etc: organize their space, make their plan, and executive
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
-
TPP 474: Debbie & Penny Williams on Navigating the Launch of Neurodivergent Young Adults (Part 1)
11 november 2025 · 42 min
Today we’re diving into one of the most tender and complex stages of parenting—launching our neurodivergent young adults into independence, or more accurately, interdependence. My guest is Penny Williams, a parenting coach for neurodiverse families and the award-winning author of four books on ADHD, including Boy Without Instructions. In this episode Penny and I talk about the emotional challenges parents face during this transition, how to redefine what success and independence really look like, and why interdependence is often the goal that best supports our kids’ thriving. We also explore the healing and acceptance this stage asks of us as parents—and how, even in the uncertainty, there’s so much possibility for connection, growth, and joy. Lees meer
Also, this is part one of a two-part episode — listen to the rest of the conversation on Penny’s Beautifully Complex podcast, which you will find here.
About Penny Williams
A parenting coach for neurodiverse families, Penny Williams is the award-winning author of four books on ADHD, including Boy Without Instructions, producer and host of the Beautifully Complex Podcast, host of the annual Neurodiversity Summits, and co-creator of The Behavior Revolution Program, a parent training program designed to change the narrative on behavior and help parents celebrate and support their kids with ADHD or autism through neuroscience-backed insights, hard-won strategies, compassion, and guidance. Penny empowers parents to help their neurodivergent kids — and families — thrive.
Things you'll learn from this episode
How parenting neurodivergent young adults can be both deeply complex and emotionally challenging
Why redefining success for each individual young adult is key to healthier expectations
How healing from our own experiences allows us to better support our kid’s growth
Why aiming for interdependence and self-determination, not independence, leads to greater emotional stability
How launching into adulthood is often messy, …
-
TPP 096a: A "Masterclass" in Executive Functioning with Seth Perler (Part 1 of 2)
7 november 2025 · 36 min
Executive functioning coach Seth Perler joins me for a two-part series in which Seth shares with us the exact approach he uses with students he works with when helping them foster their fledgling executive functioning skills. In this episode, Seth shares with us his protocol for setting up a child for success in their developing executive functioning skills. In part 2 next week, Seth will go in-depth into his specific strategies surrounding building these skills in school and in life. Lees meer
THINGS YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE:
* Seth’s definition of executive functioning framed so it helps people apply the principles to help kids
* A step-by-step breakdown of exactly how Seth works with families
* Why our relationship with our child is the number one thing to be preserved when doing this work
* The importance of parents doing their own personal work / self-care during this process
* Why kids “can’t do what we’re asking them to do because they can’t, not because they won’t,” so we need to back up and scaffold from where they’re at
* The role of mindfulness, mindset, and motivation
* Why symptoms are more important than labels
* Why it’s critical to understand the role of emotional regulation in executive functioning
* How we as parents can co-regulate our emotions with our child
* Why we want to focus on 3 positives for every 1 negative
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
-
TPP 473: A Conversation with Naomi Fisher About EMDR
4 november 2025 · 39 min
Today we’re exploring EMDR—Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing—a therapeutic approach that’s been shown to be highly effective in treating trauma, including for neurodivergent individuals. My guest is Dr. Naomi Fisher, a clinical psychologist who specializes in trauma, autism, and alternative education, and an expert in EMDR. Naomi will share her journey into EMDR and explains not just the mechanics of how it works, but also what actually happens in a session. We talk about the importance of understanding trauma in children, particularly those who are neurodivergent, and why flexibility and attunement are so essential for therapists in creating a truly supportive environment. Lees meer
About Dr. Naomi Fisher
Dr. Naomi Fisher is a clinical psychologist who specialises in trauma, autism and alternative education. She is the author of several books including When the Naughty Step Makes Things Worse and the Teenager’s Guide to Burnout. She runs webinars for parents and more of her work can be found at www.naomifisher.co.uk
Things you'll learn from this episode
How EMDR combines emotionally activated memories with bilateral stimulation to help process trauma
Why trauma can get “stuck” and how EMDR supports the brain’s natural healing process
How EMDR can be effective for both adults and children when delivered in a safe, supportive environment
Why neurodivergent individuals may have unique trauma responses that require flexibility in therapy
How parents can play an important role in helping children make sense of traumatic experiences
Why choosing accredited, well-trained therapists is critical for safe and effective EMDR treatment
Resources mentioned
Dr. Naomi Fisher’s website
Naomi Fisher on Substack
A Different Way to Learn by Naomi Fisher
Changing Our Minds: How Children Can Take Control of Their Own Learning by Naomi Fisher
What Can We Do When School’s Not Working: An Illustrated Handbook for Professionals by Naomi Fisher
Dr. Robyn Koslowitz on Post…
-
TPP 342a: Dr. Devorah Heitner on Parenting Kids Who Are Growing Up in Public
31 oktober 2025 · 56 min
Today, we’re talking about such a pressing consideration for anyone raising a kid these days — what it means for today’s generation of kids to grow up with very public lives and coming of age in a digital world where so many aspects of their lives are online and available for public consumption, not to mention that much of their important work of identity formation is being shaped by the media and technology they interact with. Lees meer
My guest, Devorah Heitner, gets into all of this in her brand new and essential book for any parent, Growing Up in Public: Coming of Age in a Digital World. For this conversation, I asked Devorah to talk us through what I see as some of the more pressing issues for parents like us, including how to balance a child’s right to privacy in their texts and online lives with valid concerns about online influences and engagement when that child is dealing with anxiety, depression or other mental health disorder, the impact of social media on kids who may already be struggling to fit in and find their people, and how many homework and grading apps used by schools may actually be undermining our kids development of executive function skills and creating additional stress for parents.
Things you'll learn
How to navigate the transition from being highly involved in a children’s tech life to respecting their privacy
Why violating our kids’ trust by reading their texts will drive them further apart from us
What to track or monitor when your child is dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health disorders
How engaging in social media may impact kids who are struggling to fit in and find their people
Why social media can act as an intensifier for whatever kids are experiencing and how it causes a dip in self-esteem
What sharenting is and how to navigate permissions, cleaning up past shares, and more
Why apps like ClassDojo are particularly challenging for families with differently-wired students
How grading apps often work against diff…
-
TPP 472: Dr. Ann-Louise Lockhart on Transforming Conflict Into Connection with our Teens
28 oktober 2025 · 42 min
Today we’re talking about one of my favorite topics — what it really means to connect, collaborate, and let go of control as our kids grow into themselves as they enter the transformative teen years. My guest is Dr. Ann-Louise Lockhart, a pediatric psychologist and parent coach who helps overwhelmed parents raise confident, emotionally healthy kids and teens, and the author of the brand new book, Love the Teen You Have: A Practical Guide to Transforming Conflict Into Connection. In our conversation, Ann-Louise shares insights from her book and offers a powerful reframing of what it means to parent through the teen years. We talk about shifting from control to curiosity—especially when raising neurodivergent kids—along with individuation, cognitive dissonance, and why living a fulfilling life as a parent is one of the best ways to model healthy behaviors for our teens. She also reminds us that it’s never too late to repair, reconnect, and love the teen we have right now. Lees meer
About Dr. Ann-Louise Lockhart
Dr. Ann-Louise Lockhart is a pediatric psychologist, parent coach, speaker, and author who helps overwhelmed parents raise confident, emotionally healthy kids and teens. As the founder of A New Day Pediatric Psychology, she empowers families to move from chaos to connection using practical tools rooted in clinical expertise and real-life parenting. She is the author of an upcoming book launching October 28, 2025 titled, Love the Teen You Have: A Practical Guide to Transforming Conflict Into Connection. She has been featured in The New York Times, Parents, HuffPost, and on The Today Show. Her dynamic, relatable style has made her a trusted voice for parents nationwide.
Things you'll learn from this episode
Why it’s never too late to repair and rebuild connection with your teen
How curiosity helps parents better understand what’s really driving their teen’s behavior
Why focusing on connection over control leads to stronger, more trusting relationships
How individua…
-
TPP 356a: Supporting Healthy Digital Media Use for Neurodivergent Kids
24 oktober 2025 · 42 min
Many of our kids spend a LOT of time engaging on screens and with technology, and I don’t know about you, but for me it feels like this is an ever-changing, and fast-changing landscape, and one that can be hard to stay on top of. Whether we’re talking about assistive technology, videos, games, or social media, these forms of media continue to offer new ways of interacting, developing relationships, and even exploring identity, and this has added to the complexity of raising neurodivergent kiddos. So I invited Dr. Meryl Alper, a researcher on the social and cultural implications of communication technologies with a focus on disability, digital media, and children and families’ tech use to join me to talk about how we should be thinking about our kids’ relationship with screens and tech.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Lees meer -
TPP 471: Chris Balme on Making Middle School an Adventure Worth Savoring
21 oktober 2025 · 33 min
My guest today is education leader and author Chris Balme, here to talk about his brand-new book Challenge Accepted: 50 Adventures to Make Middle School Awesome. In it, Chris gives middle schoolers themselves the tools to turn the ups and downs of adolescence into an adventure filled with meaning, growth, and connection. Lees meer
In our conversation, Chris shares why adventure and healthy risk-taking are so powerful during the middle school years, how parents can support their kids’ self-efficacy and independence, and what this can look like for neurodivergent learners. We also talk about the parallel journeys parents and kids go through during this stage, and how leaning into growth together can make middle school not just manageable, but truly awesome.
About Chris Balme
Chris Balme is an education leader, writer, and speaker. He’s endlessly curious about how we can raise wise, loving, and capable adolescents.
Chris has co-founded and led two innovative schools, written a best-selling book called Finding the Magic in Middle School, and regularly speaks to and trains teachers and parents around the world. His new book, Challenge Accepted: 50 Adventures to Make Middle School Awesome, gives the keys to middle schoolers themselves, to turn the wild ride of adolescence into an adventure full of meaning and connection.
Chris currently serves as Co-Principal of Hakuba International School, and as director of Argonaut, an online advisory program for middle schoolers from around the world. He lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with his wife and three children.
Things you'll learn from this episode
How middle schoolers are far more capable than they’re often given credit for
Why choice, authorship, and experiential learning are critical for building self-efficacy in adolescents
How shifting from being the “boss” to being a guide helps parents support their child’s growth
Why healthy risks and self-directed challenges are especially important for neurodivergent kids
How p…
-
TPP 313a: Dr. Devorah Heitner on Online Safety and Internet “Rabbit Holes” and Neurodivergent Kids
17 oktober 2025 · 42 min
Today is an important conversation about online communities and internet rabbit holes. And I felt pulled to tackle this topic for the show because I know that the past few years in particularly has been a time where differently wired kids have beenspending a LOT more time online and connecting with people they may not have even meant in real life and doing their identity development largely online. And I also know that this can put our kids, and us as their parents and caregivers, in challenging positions as we navigate a seemingly endless stream of discourse that may lead our kids down the wrong paths. Lees meer
So I asked my friend and screen and tech expert Dr. Devorah Heitner to join me for a frank and open conversation about it all. We talked about the ways differently wired kids might be exposed to harmful content, and why our kids may be more susceptible to toxic or unhealthy virtual rabbit holes in the first place, the popular places where teens and kids are hanging out the most right now, the way our kids’ worldview and their brain development is impacted they content their engaging with, and what we parents might not know that we should know about regarding this topic.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices -
TPP 470: How Can I Stay Grounded When My Child Falls Apart After School?
16 oktober 2025 · 17 min
In this Parent Lean In episode, Margaret Webb joins me to answer a listener's question about those tough moments when our kids are totally dysregulated—especially after long, overstimulating school days. We get into why these behaviors happen, how important it is for kids to release pent-up energy, and what it really means to co-regulate. We also talk about how to stay grounded ourselves when things get loud or chaotic, and remind parents that these rough patches are hard, but they are temporary—and we don’t have to face them alone. Lees meer
Key Takeaways
Why understanding common concerns about social skills in autistic children can help parents feel less isolated and more empowered
How parental anxieties can shape decisions around social opportunities and why self-awareness is key
Why clarifying your own worries before addressing your child’s needs leads to more intentional and effective support
How using scaffolding strategies can make playdates more successful and comfortable for neurodivergent kids
Why keeping playdates short and thoughtfully matched can reduce stress for both kids and caregivers
How lowering expectations and partnering with teachers and other parents can create more positive social experiences
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
-
TPP 469: Helping Neurodivergent Girls Know They’re Enough, with Kate Rope
14 oktober 2025 · 40 min
Today we’re talking about raising girls—what it means to help them feel strong in both body and mind, and how we as parents can nurture that confidence from an early age. My guest is Kate Rope, an award-winning journalist and the author of the new book, Strong as a Girl: Your Guide to Raising Girls Who Know, Stand Up for, and Take Care of Themselves. In this episode, we talk about empowerment, self-compassion, and listening deeply to our daughters, as well as the role parents play in creating a supportive environment. We also explore the importance of representing diverse experiences, including those of neurodivergent girls, and how to help our kids develop a strong, steady inner voice. Lees meer
About Kate Rope
Kate Rope is an award-winning freelance journalist and author whose work has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Time, and many other outlets. She is the author of Strong as a Girl: Your Guide to Raising Girls Who Know, Stand Up for, and Take Care of Themselves and Strong as a Mother. How to Stay Healthy, Happy and (Most Importantly) Sane from Pregnancy to Parenting, co-executive producer and co-author of the Audible Original Soldiers of Science, and a mom on a mission to help everyone be Strong as a Human.
Things you'll learn from this episode
How early conversations about self-advocacy can empower young girls to trust their voices
Why including diverse experiences enriches the way we parent and support our daughters
How validating emotions like anger helps girls embrace their full humanity instead of suppressing themselves
Why neurodivergent girls often face extra layers of societal pressure and expectation
How prioritizing self-worth over self-esteem builds a stronger foundation for girls’ well-being
Why encouraging autonomy and practicing self-compassion are key for raising confident, resilient girls
Resources mentioned
Kate Rope’s website
Strong As a Girl: Your Guide to Raising Girls Who Know, Stand Up for, and Take Care of Themselve…
-
TPP 365a: Dr. Alok Kanojia Explains How to Raise Healthy Gamers
10 oktober 2025 · 43 min
Where is the line between healthy gaming and unhealthy gaming? How much gaming is too much? And when does a gaming habit
evolve into gaming addiction? These are some of the questions regarding
screen time that I hear from many parents, and they highlight some of
the ongoing challenges families face in raising children who can be
responsible tech users and whose screen use and gaming doesn’t interfere
with their lives in a way that can be harmful or keep them stuck. Lees meerSo when I learned of the new book How to Raise a Healthy Gamer: End Power Struggles, Break Bad Screen Habits, and Transform Your Relationship with Your Kids by Dr. Alok Kanojia, I knew I wanted to invite him onto the show to talk about all things gaming with us. In this conversation, we talked
about how we as parents can know whether our child is addicted to video games or not, why screen time limits and restricting gaming time
are at odds with the goal of raising a healthy gamer, and how to shift
to a holistic approach that considers overall well-being and
goal-setting. We also talked about why children with ADHD are more
susceptible to addictive behaviors surrounding gaming and how to raise
healthy gamers from a young age.Dr. Alok Kanojia is a Harvard-trained psychiatrist specializing in
the intersection of technology x mental health. Also known as ”Dr. K” to
millions of people on the internet, Dr.Kanojia is the co-founder of
Healthy Gamer, a mental health platform that serves the digital
generation. He has inspired millions of people with online content while
overseeing the mental health coaching of thousands of young people. He
is widely regarded as the foremost expert on video game addiction and
most prominent mental health authority for young people. When he’s
offline, he’s usually traveling, gardening, or grilling with his family.Things you’ll learn from this episode
How to determine if your child has a gaming addiction, and why it’s important to trust your instincts
Why screen time limits …
-
TPP 468: Helping Empaths and Highly Sensitive Kids Thrive with Dr. Judith Orloff
7 oktober 2025 · 34 min
Today we’re diving into the world of empaths and highly sensitive people—what it means to be one, what makes it complicated, and why it’s also such a gift. My guest, psychiatrist, author, and empath Dr. Judith Orloff, shares her own journey as a highly sensitive child and how it shaped her work as a psychiatrist. We talk about the science behind sensitivity, how to recognize a highly sensitive child, and why self-care and co-regulation are so critical for both parents and kids. Judith also touches on bullying, sensory overload, and the strategies empaths can use to thrive—and she introduces her beautiful new children’s book, The Highly Sensitive Rabbit, created to help kids understand and embrace their sensitivity. Lees meer
About Judith Orloff, MD
Judith Orloff, MD, is a psychiatrist who serves on the UCLA Psychiatric Clinical Faculty and an empath. She is a New York Times bestselling author whose most recent books are The Genius of Empathy (2024) and The Empath’s Survival Guide (2017). Specializing in treating highly sensitive people in her private practice, she also offers Empathy Training Programs to organizations. She has spoken at the American Psychiatric Association, Google, Fortune’s Powerful Women’s Summit, and TEDx. She has appeared on The Today Show, CNN, PBS, and NPR. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, O, The Oprah Magazine, USA Today, Teen Vogue, and Scientific American.
Things you'll learn from this episode
How Dr. Orloff blends traditional psychiatric expertise with her lived experience as an empath
Why empaths and highly sensitive individuals often struggle with sensory overload and emotional stress from others
How co-regulation between parents and children supports emotional health and resilience
Why parents need to advocate for highly sensitive kids in schools, especially in the face of bullying
How recognizing the gifts of empathy—like deep connection to nature and beauty—helps children embrace who they are
Why self-empathy and inte…
-
TPP 128b: Digital Media and Technology Expert Devorah Heitner on Helping Kids Be Screenwise
3 oktober 2025 · 44 min
Dr. Devorah Heitner, a digital media and technology expert and the author of "Screenwise" talks about how parents can mentor their kids to develop a healthy relationship with screens (phones, online games, and more).
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Lees meer -
TPP 467: A Conversation with Nefertiti Austin About the Diagnosis That Changed Everything
30 september 2025 · 32 min
Today I’m talking with writer and memoirist Nefertiti Austin about her journey parenting a neurodivergent child and the many realizations that come with it, which she writes about in her new book, She’s Just Spirited: Parenting a Neurodivergent Child and the Diagnosis That Changes Everything, continues that deeply honest exploration, this time through the lens of raising a differently wired child. In our conversation, Nefertiti shares the challenges and gifts of navigating labels, the role of educators in her family’s story, and the ways adoption has shaped her parenting experience. We also talk about what it means to adapt as parents—to let go of old visions and dream new dreams that embrace our children’s unique paths. Lees meer
About Nefertiti Austin
Nefertiti Austin is a writer and memoirist. She wrote about the erasure of diverse voices in motherhood in the critically acclaimed Motherhood So White: A Memoir of Race, Gender and Parenting in America (2019) and her work has appeared in the New York Times, Washington Post, Huffington Post, The Nation, Romper, Parents Magazine, and many other publications. She was the subject of an article on race and adoption in The Atlantic and appeared on numerous shows, podcasts, and radio programs, including The Today Show and multiple NPR outlets. Her newest book is She’s Just Spirited: Parenting a Neurodivergent Child and the Diagnosis That Changes Everything (2025). Nefertiti is the proud adoptive mother of two children and lives in Los Angeles.
Things you'll learn from this episode
How Nefertiti’s parenting journey began through adoption and was reshaped by raising a neurodivergent child
Why using positive terms like “spirited” instead of negative labels protects children’s sense of self, especially for children of color
How adoption adds unique layers of complexity to parenting neurodivergent kids and challenges assumptions about nurture
Why seeking assessments requires patience, persistence, and deep understanding from both…
-
TPP 016b: Understanding and Navigating the Parent-Teacher Relationship with Becca Wertheim
26 september 2025 · 37 min
Becca Wertheim, a second-grade teacher at an inclusion school in North Carolina, talks about her experience as a teacher meeting the individual educational needs of a group of students with diverse learning styles, and her insight for parents who are looking for better support and communication with the teachers in their children’s lives.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Lees meer -
TPP 466: Rebecca Bush Offers a Pathway for Parents with Newly-Identified Dyslexic Kids
23 september 2025 · 39 min
Today we’re talking about dyslexia—what it is, what it isn’t, and how parents can best support their children after a diagnosis. My guest is Rebecca Bush, a Certified Academic Language Therapist, Licensed Dyslexia Therapist, and founder of Lead Changes, a private practice that supports children with dyslexia, as well as the author of the new book Dyslexia and Your Newly Diagnosed Child, a compassionate, step-by-step guide for families just beginning this journey. In our conversation, Rebecca shares the myths and misconceptions parents often encounter, and the critical importance of early intervention. We talk about the early signs to look for, how language and advocacy shape outcomes, and the support systems that can make all the difference. Rebecca also offers practical, reassuring advice for parents navigating the emotional and practical realities of raising a child with dyslexia. Lees meer
About Rebecca Bush
Rebecca Bush is a Certified Academic Language Therapist, a Licensed Dyslexia Therapist, and the founder of Lead Changes, a private practice that supports children with dyslexia and the families who love them. With nearly 20 years of experience in education, including roles as a classroom teacher, literacy leader, and founding director, Rebecca brings a rare blend of deep expertise and grounded empathy to every conversation.
Rebecca specializes in helping parents navigate the emotional and practical journey after a dyslexia diagnosis, offering evidence-based strategies, advocacy tools, and encouragement that’s both real and reassuring. She’s also the author of Dyslexia and Your Newly Diagnosed Child, a compassionate, step-by-step guide for families just beginning the path. Beyond her work in literacy, Rebecca is trained in equine-assisted services and believes deeply in the power of movement, connection, and trust-building as tools for emotional resilience. She’s known for keeping things honest, hopeful, and jargon-free, because parenting doesn’t come with a manual,…
-
TPP 247a: Dr. Jody Carrington on Lifting Up Educators, Parents, Caregivers, and Anyone Else Who Supports Children
19 september 2025 · 47 min
My guest for this episode, Dr Jody Carrington, a clinical psychologist, speaker, and author based in Alberta, Canada, has spent most of her career working with children and families who have experienced trauma, and has learned that kids can only be as okay as the adults in their lives are okay. The result of her insights is the wonderful book Kids These Days: A Game Plan for (Re)Connecting With Those We Teach, Lead & Love. Lees meer
Jody offers powerfully grounded insights and strategies for parents, caregivers, and teachers to connect with and show up for our kids and each other.
Things You'll Learn from This Episode:
Why it’s so important that kids have meaningful connections with adults in
their lives, including (and perhaps especially) teachersThe importance of showing emotional regulation to kids (and why emotional regulation can’t be learned without dysregulation)
What is a “light up moment”
How labels are often relied upon in schools to provide context but miss the actual story
Jody’s answer to the question: “Is it ever too late” with older kids who may
have experienced trauma or have really tricky conductWhy and how our real power comes from connecting and supporting each other
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
-
TPP 465: How Can I Help My Kids Find Meaning When I’m Struggling to Find it Myself?
18 september 2025 · 21 min
Debbie Reber and Zach Morris answer a listener's question about how parents can support their kids' search for meaning and connection while navigating their own struggles.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices -
TPP 464: Dr. Robyn Koslowitz on Post-Traumatic Parenting and Breaking the Cycles that Almost Broke You
16 september 2025 · 43 min
Today we’re diving into the ways our own trauma can shape how we show up as parents, and how we can begin to break those inherited cycles with Dr. Robyn Koslowitz, a clinical child psychologist, trauma treatment expert, and author of Post-Traumatic Parenting: Break the Cycle, Become the Parent You Always Wanted to Be. In our conversation, Robyn shares insights from her book, including the concept of “secret ACEs,” the “trauma app” that can override our instincts, and the different subtypes of post-traumatic parenting. We also talk about how to recognize our triggers, the importance of self-care, and the role of the inner child in this work. Robyn’s approach blends research, clinical wisdom, and lived experience, and she offers practical hacks for navigating the challenges of parenting when trauma is part of our story. Lees meer
About Dr. Robyn Koslowitz
Dr. Robyn Koslowitz is a clinical child psychologist, trauma treatment expert, and author of Post-Traumatic Parenting: Break the Cycle, Become the Parent You Always Wanted to Be. As the founder of the Post-Traumatic Parenting model, Dr. Koslowitz helps parents break free from inherited patterns and become the parents their children—and their inner child—need. Her core message is simple yet profound: Your inner child can’t raise a child, but raising your real-world child can heal your inner child.
Dr. Koslowitz combines research-backed tools, clinical insights, and lived experience to help parents transform trauma into growth. As she says, Adulting is hard. Adulting is especially hard if you never childed.And parenting? That’s adulting on steroids. Her “trauma app” metaphor has reached thousands, empowering parents to recognize and rewrite the patterns that no longer serve them—or their children.
Things you'll learn from this episode
How trauma can shape parenting by acting as a mirror, map, and motivator for healing
Why hidden or “secret” ACEs accumulate and impact the way parents show up with their children
How childr…
-
TPP 318a: What Parents Need to Know about the IEP Process, with Therapist Beth Liesenfeld
12 september 2025 · 44 min
If you’re the parent of a differently wired kid with a diagnosed
learning disability, you likely have had experience with Individualized
Education Plans, otherwise known as IEPs. And if this is you, my hunch
is you have some feelings about IEPs and the whole process — the
stresses, the unknowns, the fact that it might feel like you have to
understand a completely different language just to get the services and
supports your child needs and deserves in schools. Lees meerOccupational therapist Beth Liesenfeld, the woman behind a company, podcast, and resource called The IEP Lab, joins us to answer your
questions around how parents can better prepare for an IEP meeting, what
makes a good IEP, and how we can go about making changes on an IEP if we realize the accommodations aren’t being effective or if a school isn’t following through in the way the IEP outlines.Beth Liesenfeld, MOT, OTR/L is an occupational therapist passionate about
providing “insider” information of the school’s process and culture to
parents in order to increase collaboration between parents and school
staff! Her company, The IEP Lab, provides online workshops and courses
as well as produces The Parent IEP Lab Podcast.Things You'll Learn from This Episode:
What parents actually need to know before they go into an IEP meeting
The criteria for designing an effective and supportive IEP
The intention behind the goals written into any IEP, and how to create goals that lead to hoped-for outcomes
What parents can do if their children’s school doesn’t follow through on the accommodations provided in their child’s IEP
How to include accommodations for students who are struggling with school refusal and therefore may not be meeting attendance requirements
What the IDEA says about seeking an IEP for twice-exceptional children who may be performing “adequately” but aren’t reaching their potential
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
-
TPP 463: Author and Advocate Julie Green on Generational Autism and Radical Acceptance
9 september 2025 · 36 min
In this episode I’m talking with Julie Green, author of the memoir Motherness, a powerful exploration of generational autism, parenthood, and radical acceptance. Julie, who was late-diagnosed herself and is raising an autistic child, takes us inside her journey of self-discovery and diagnosis, and we talk about the emotional complexities of coming to understand our own neurodivergence while parenting neurodivergent kids. We explore the healing power of writing, the importance of storytelling and compassion, and the challenges many families like ours face along the way. Julie’s memoir is a testament to these shared experiences, and this conversation is a deeply honest look at what it means to parent—and to live—with radical acceptance. Lees meer
About Julie Green
Julie Green is the author of Motherness, a memoir about generational autism, parenthood, and radical acceptance, released by ECW Press in September 2025. Her writing has appeared in the Washington Post, HuffPost, Parents, The Globe and Mail, Chatelaine, Today’s Parent, and more. She has been featured on CTV, BBC Radio, Global News, Sirius XM, and other media outlets, and was a finalist for the CBC Nonfiction Prize in 2024. Through her platform The Autistic Mom, Julie shares her lived experience as a late-diagnosed autistic woman raising an autistic child.
Things you'll learn from this episode
How Julie’s decade-long journey to understanding her neurodivergence was shaped by limited representation for autistic women
Why writing became an essential tool for Julie to process her experiences and emotions
How receiving a formal diagnosis brought relief and clarity to her life story
Why Julie’s memoir Motherness shines a light on the complexities of parenting an autistic child while navigating her own identity
How practicing self-compassion and protecting her child’s privacy are central to Julie’s storytelling
Why community, connection, and embracing one’s identity remain vital for neurodivergent individuals and f…
-
TPP 120b: Back to School Special with Understood's Amanda Morin
5 september 2025 · 48 min
Amanda Morin of Understood joins Debbie for a special back-to-school episode to help families prepare for easing into the coming school year with as much confidence and serenity as possible.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Lees meer -
TPP 462: Dr. Stephen Porges and Karen Onderko on the Safe & Sound Protocol
2 september 2025 · 41 min
I’m thrilled to share this conversation with Dr. Stephen Porges and Karen Onderko about the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), a therapeutic approach grounded in Stephen’s groundbreaking polyvagal theory. Stephen, a Distinguished University Scientist and originator of the polyvagal theory, has spent decades helping us understand how our nervous system shapes behavior, connection, and healing. Karen, who was instrumental in bringing SSP from the lab into clinical practice, has been a tireless advocate for expanding access to polyvagal-informed care around the world. Lees meer
In this episode, we dive into the origins of SSP, the science behind it, and what makes it such a powerful tool for supporting emotional regulation—especially for people navigating trauma and neurodivergence. Stephen and Karen share stories from real-life applications of the protocol, explain how co-regulation plays a central role, and highlight the many ways SSP can foster connection and resilience. Whether you’re new to polyvagal theory or already familiar, this is a hopeful and inspiring conversation about what’s possible when we work with the nervous system to support healing.
About Dr. Stephen W. Porges
Dr. Stephen W. Porges is the originator of the Polyvagal Theory, a theory that emphasizes the importance of physiological state in the expression of behavioral, mental, and health problems. He is the creator of a music-based intervention, the Safe and Sound Protocol ™. In collaboration with Anthony Gorry, he co-created a Sonocea® Enhanced acoustic technology, engineered to support homeostatic functions and embedded in the Rest and Restore Protocol™.
With Karen Onderko, Deb Dana, and Randall Redfield, he is a cofounder of the Polyvagal Institute. He has authored several books, including the Polyvagal Perspectives: Interventions, Practices, and Strategies (2024). He has coauthored Safe and Sound: A Polyvagal Approach for Connection, Change, and Healing (2025) with Karen Onderko.
About Karen Onderko
K…
-
TPP 223a: Parenting Bright Kids Who Struggle in School, with Dewey Rosetti
29 augustus 2025 · 35 min
Author, youth advocate, and co-founder of PEN (Parent Education Network) Dewey Rosetti talks about her new book, "Bright Kids Who Struggle in School" and teaching from a strengths-based approach.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Lees meer -
TPP 461: Naureen Hunani on Neurodiversity-Affirming Nutrition and Food Care
26 augustus 2025 · 34 min
Today we’re diving into a topic that doesn’t get nearly enough attention in parenting spaces—neurodiversity-affirming nutrition. My guest is Naureen Hunani, a Montreal-based family nutritionist, pediatric dietitian, and mom of two who brings both professional expertise and lived experience to this work. Naureen is passionate about helping families create a positive, shame-free relationship with food, using a non-diet, weight-inclusive approach that focuses as much on the feeding environment and language around food as on what’s on the plate. Lees meer
In our conversation, Naureen shares her personal journey and her model of neurodiversity-affirming care, which is rooted in inclusion, acceptance, and trauma-informed practices. We talk about the unique challenges neurodivergent children can face around feeding, how societal pressures can complicate the picture, and why trusting our children’s needs is such a powerful step. Naureen also debunks common myths and offers practical ways to support our kids—and ourselves—through a more compassionate, individualized approach to eating.
About Naureen Hunani
Naureen Hunani is a Montreal-based family nutritionist, pediatric dietitian, and proud mom of two incredible children. As both a professional and a parent, she understands firsthand the challenges of feeding kids and is passionate about offering practical, easy-to-follow nutrition and feeding guidance that builds parents’ confidence rather than triggering panic, guilt, or shame.
With a deep belief that early experiences with food and the feeding environment shape lifelong eating habits, Naureen is dedicated to helping children and adults cultivate a positive relationship with food and their bodies. She takes a non-diet, weight-inclusive approach to nutrition and health, focusing not only on the food itself but also on attitudes toward food, the eating environment, and the language we use around it. She encourages investing time in meal preparation and involving children in ever…
-
TPP 221a: The Relationship Between Exercise and Mental Health for Neurodivergent Kids
22 augustus 2025 · 42 min
Fitness instructor, ADHD counselor, and author Gabriel Villarreal talks about how exercise is "medicine" for kids with ADHD, autism, and more, and how to get kids motivated to exercise.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Lees meer -
TPP 460: How Do We Get Kids the Support They Need in School Without an IEP?
21 augustus 2025 · 17 min
In this Parent Lean In episode, Debbie is joined by parent coach Margaret Webb to answer a listener's question about a challenge so many parents face—when your child seems to hold it together at school, only to fall apart at home. We get into what might be going on under the surface, including masking, the toll it takes, and how things like routines, 504 plans, and even spoon theory can help. We also explore ways to support smoother transitions from school to home and share ideas for helping your child conserve and replenish their energy throughout the day. Lees meer
In this special Parent Lean In episode, I’m talking with Margaret
Webb about a question I hear often—how can we support our neurodivergent kids in connecting with neurotypical peers, especially when social skills don’t quite align? We unpack one listener’s situation with her sweet, social autistic son and talk about managing our own worries as parents, scaffolding playdates so they feel more successful, and finding the right playmate fit. It’s all about creating safe, supportive opportunities for connection—without putting too much pressure on anyone involved.Things You'll Learn from This Episode:
Why understanding the unique challenges faced by parents of
neurodivergent kids is essential for developing flexible, responsive
parenting strategiesHow tools like 504 plans and consistent routines can support smoother transitions and reduce stress for neurodivergent children
Why introducing concepts like spoon theory and early conversations
about neurodiversity helps children better understand and advocate for
their needsHow recognizing and supporting your child’s masking behaviors can lead to greater emotional safety and authenticity
Why identifying flow activities and creating simple transition
rituals can help children regulate and recharge throughout the dayHow encouraging experimentation in parenting and promoting self-advocacy in kids fosters resilience and long-term independence
Resources Mentioned…
-
TPP 459: Bryan Post on Navigating Trauma in Parenting & the Healing Power of Love
19 augustus 2025 · 45 min
In this conversation, I talk with child behavior and adoption expert Bryan Post about how trauma, stress, and fear can shape the way our kids behave—and how we respond as parents. Bryan shares powerful insights about what’s really going on beneath the surface when kids are acting out, especially in families with adopted or foster children. We dive into the difference between parenting from love versus fear, how oxytocin plays a role in connection and regulation, and what it takes to break out of reactive cycles and create a more peaceful, nurturing home. Lees meer
About Bryan Post
Bryan Post is a leading expert in child behavior, adoption trauma, and love-based parenting. A former foster child himself, Bryan has dedicated over two decades to helping families heal through connection, compassion, and regulation. He is the founder of Fear to Love, LLC, Bondify.ai, the Post Institute for Family-Centered Therapy, and the nonprofit Leaf Wraparound. His pioneering “Fear to Love Method” and the “Stress Model” empower parents to respond to challenging behaviors with understanding rather than fear or punishment.
Bryan’s approach blends neuroscience with timeless spiritual principles, particularly the teachings of Jesus, to address trauma and attachment disruptions in children. He has authored several influential books, including From Fear to Love, The Great Behavior Breakdown, and Parenting Softly, and co-authored the bestseller Beyond Consequences, Logic, and Control.
Through media appearances, live seminars, online trainings, and digital platforms, Bryan has impacted thousands of adoptive, foster, and biological families worldwide. His AI-powered parenting app, Bondify.ai, offers real-time, trauma-informed support, making expert guidance accessible to parents everywhere. Bryan’s central message is simple yet transformative: all behavior is communication, and true healing begins with love. Learn more at www.feartolove.com and www.bondify.ai.
Things you'll learn from this episode…
-
TPP 220a: Meghan Leahy on Why We Should Stop Listening to Experts
15 augustus 2025 · 54 min
Parent coach, Washington Post columnist, and author of "Parenting Outside the Lines" Meghan Leahy talks about embracing imperfection and vulnerability in our parenting lives. Lees meer
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
-
TPP 458: Dr. Emily Kline on How Motivational Interviewing Helps Kids Get Unstuck
12 augustus 2025 · 42 min
In this episode, I’m joined by clinical psychologist Dr. Emily Kline for a deep dive into motivational interviewing—an approach to communication that helps parents move from fixing and convincing to connecting and collaborating. We talk about how to have hard conversations (think: hygiene, responsibility, and independence) in a way that respects our kids’ autonomy and actually opens the door to change. Lees meer
Emily brings nearly 20 years of experience working with families, has taught at Boston University and Harvard Medical School, and is the author of The School of Hard Talks. She shares practical, compassionate insights that any parent navigating the teen and young adult years will find incredibly useful.
About Dr. Emily Kline
Dr. Emily Kline is a clinical psychologist with nearly 20 years of experience working with individuals and families in community mental health settings. She has held faculty positions at Boston University and Harvard Medical School and led research studies focused on early course psychosis, adolescent and young adult mental health, and parent-focused interventions.
Dr. Kline is the author of The School of Hard Talks: How to Have Real Conversations with Your (Almost Grown) Kids and the creator of The School of Hard Talks Online. She has published dozens of articles appearing in a range of peer-reviewed scholarly journals, textbooks, and popular magazines, and she has spoken with audiences all over the world about mental health and communication.
Dr. Kline completed her bachelor’s degree at Haverford College, her master’s and doctoral degrees at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, and her clinical and post-doctoral training at Harvard Medical School. She lives in Boston with her family.
Things you'll learn from this episode
Why motivational interviewing is a powerful communication tool that can improve family dynamics
How fostering a sense of control in children leads to more thoughtful and responsible decision-making
Why validat…
-
TPP 214a: Alane Freund How to Support & Parent a Highly Sensitive Child
8 augustus 2025 · 45 min
Licensed family therapist and international consultant on high sensitivity Alane Freund explains what high sensitivity is, how it shows up in children, teens, and adults, and gives her insights on how parents can help a highly sensitive child flourish.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Lees meer -
TPP 457: A Conversation with Dr. Alissa Jerud About Emotion-Savvy Parenting
5 augustus 2025 · 37 min
In this episode, I’m talking with clinical psychologist and author Alissa Jerud about her new book, Emotion Savvy Parenting. We get into how parents can better understand and manage their own emotions—especially in those intense, in-the-moment situations—so they can show up more effectively for their kids. Alissa shares her ART tools (Accept, Regulate, Tolerate), and we talk about strategies for staying grounded during emotional storms, including the ones that hit in very public places. Lees meer
About Alissa Jerud, PhD
Alissa Jerud, PhD is a mom of two kids, a licensed clinical psychologist, a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Pennsylvania, and author of Emotion-Savvy Parenting: A Shame-Free Guide to Navigating Emotional Storms and Deepening Connection. In her private practice, Dr. Jerud specializes in highly effective, exposure-based treatments for anxiety-related disorders, including obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, specific phobias, and generalized anxiety disorder. Additionally, she specializes in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills training and particularly enjoys helping other parents learn research-backed strategies for accepting, regulating, and tolerating their emotions, as well as their children’s. Dr. Jerud also trains other clinicians in exposure-based treatments and frequently gives workshops on anxiety, stress, mental health, parenting, and social support to companies large and small.
Things you'll learn from this episode
Why understanding the purpose of emotions matters for helping kids (and ourselves) live more fully and authentically
How emotion-savvy parenting begins with our own emotional experience, not just managing our child’s behavior
Why acceptance is a powerful first step toward emotional regulation and meaningful change
How mindfulness helps us observe emotions without judgment, so they don’t take over our actions
Why developing the skil…
-
TPP 211a: Parenting Scripts for Stressed Out Moments with Kids, with Dr. Adele Lafrance
1 augustus 2025 · 36 min
Clinical psychologist and co-developer of Emotion-Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), Dr. Adele Lafrance, talks about her new book, What to Say to Kids When Nothing Seems to Work, a practical guide for parents and caregivers.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Lees meer -
TPP 456: Maggie Dent on How to Parent, Love & Support Today’s Teens
29 juli 2025 · 45 min
In this powerful conversation, I’m joined by beloved Australian parenting expert and author Maggie Dent to explore what it really takes to raise resilient, emotionally healthy teens in today’s ever-changing world. Drawing on her experiences as a high school teacher, mother of four boys, and trusted voice in the parenting space, Maggie shares practical, compassionate guidance for navigating adolescence with insight, humor, and heart. We dive into the realities of the teenage brain, how the digital age is reshaping childhood, and why curiosity, connection, and unconditional love are more important than ever in building strong, supportive relationships with our kids. Lees meer
About Maggie Dent
Commonly known as the ‘queen of common sense’, Maggie Dent has become one of Australia’s favourite parenting authors, educators and podcasters. She has a particular interest in the early years, adolescence and resilience, and is an undisputed ‘boy champion’.
Maggie’s experience includes teaching, counselling, and working in palliative care/funeral services and suicide prevention. Maggie is an advocate for the healthy, common-sense raising of children in order to strengthen families and communities. She is a passionate, positive voice for children of all ages.
Maggie is the host of The Good Enough Dad podcast and hosted six seasons of the award-winning ABC podcast, Parental As Anything. In 2025, she appears in the genre-bending ABC TV series about the challenges of parenting modern tweens/teens, The Role of a Lifetime. She is the author of 10 major books, plus several other e-books and a prolific creator of resources for parents, adolescents, teachers, early childhood educators and others who are interested in quietly improving their lives. Her books include the 2024 release Help Me Help My Teen: supporting our teens through tough times, Girlhood: Raising our little girls to be healthy, happy and heard, Parental As Anything (a book based on her podcast released in 2021), and her bests…
-
TPP 210a: Dr. Roberto Olivardia Talks About Kids with ADHD and Sleep Challenges
25 juli 2025 · 48 min
Dr. Roberto Olivardia, a Clinical Instructor of Psychology at Harvard Medical School, talks about the relationship between ADHD and sleep challenges, and offers strategies for children struggling with sleep.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Lees meer -
TPP 455: A Conversation with Dr. Naomi Fisher on Neurodivergence, PDA, and Self-Directed Learning
22 juli 2025 · 41 min
In this conversation, I talk with clinical psychologist and author Dr. Naomi Fisher about self-directed education, and why it can be such a powerful approach for neurodivergent kids, especially those with a PDA profile. Naomi shares why agency is so important in learning, how traditional school can chip away at a child’s self-worth, and what it looks like when we truly support demand-avoidant kids in ways that work for them. We also get into the challenges parents face when stepping outside the norm and why keeping the parent-child relationship at the center is key. Lees meer
About Dr. Naomi Fisher
Dr. Naomi Fisher is a clinical psychologist who specialises in trauma, autism and alternative education. She is the author of several books including When the Naughty Step Makes Things Worse and the Teenager’s Guide to Burnout. She runs webinars for parents and more of her work can be found at www.naomifisher.co.uk
Things you'll learn from this episode
Why agency in learning is essential for neurodivergent children to build confidence, reduce anxiety, and stay engaged
How self-directed education supports children—especially those with PDA—by minimizing pressure and honoring their natural pace
Why respecting a child’s right to say no is foundational for creating a safe, trust-based learning environment
How understanding the cycle of demand avoidance helps reframe “bad behavior” as a response to overwhelm, not defiance
Why shifting away from rigid definitions of academic success can open the door to more authentic growth and capability
How prioritizing the parent-child relationship and finding community support helps families confidently navigate less conventional paths
Resources mentioned
Dr. Naomi Fisher’s website
Naomi Fisher on Substack
A Different Way to Learn by Naomi Fisher
Eliza Fricker Talks About Parenting a Child with PDA (Tilt Parenting Podcast)
Eliza Fricker’s website
The Family Experience of PDA by Eliza Fricker
Eliza Fricker / Missing the Mark on Face…
-
Where Do We Go From Here?
20 juli 2025 · 5 min
In this special mini-episode, Debbie reflects on the Tilt Parenting revolution nearly 10 years after it began and invites listeners to complete a short survey to help assess what’s working and what still needs to change for families raising neurodivergent kids today. Lees meer
This is your chance to help shape the future of the movement to shift the parenting paradigm and ensure it continues to create more ease, possibility, and joy for neurodivergent children and their families.
Please share this episode and the survey!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices -
TPP 209a: Blake Boles Asks Why Are You Still Sending Your Kids to School
18 juli 2025 · 43 min
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
-
TPP 454: What Do I Do When My 18-year-old Is Stalled Out and Not Ready to Launch?
17 juli 2025 · 25 min
This week I’m joined by Zach Morris for a thoughtful conversation
about the challenges of parenting neurodivergent teens who are
approaching adulthood. We dig into a listener question about an
almost-18-year-old who’s still really struggling, despite years of
support. Zach and I explore the pressures parents face, the grief that
can come up, how to hold boundaries with empathy, and why we need to
rethink what success and failure actually mean. We also talk about the
importance of understanding each child’s unique developmental
timeline—and how to give ourselves and our kids space to pause, regroup,
and keep going. Lees meerAbout Debbie:
Debbie Reber, MA is a parenting activist, bestselling author, speaker, and the CEO and founder of TiLT Parenting, a resource, top-performing podcast,
consultancy, and community with a focus on shifting the paradigm for
parents raising and embracing neurodivergent children. A regular
contributor to Psychology Today and ADDitude Magazine, and the author of more than a dozen books for children and teens, Debbie’s most recent book is Differently Wired: A Parent’s Guide to Raising an Atypical Child with Confidence and Hope.About Zach
Zach Morris is a thought leader in education who is committed to helping
people increase compassion, collaboration, and learning. Zach supports
individuals, families, and organizations who aim to develop a greater
sense of safety and empowerment in themselves, in their relationships,
and in their communities. Gently guiding humans through the resistance
they encounter is at the core of Zach’s work. Learn more about Zach hereThings You'll Learn from This Episode
Why parenting neurodivergent teens near adulthood requires extra patience, flexibility, and a long-view approach
How societal expectations can increase stress and make it harder to trust our child’s unique path
Why processing grief is a necessary part of coming to terms with unmet expectations and ongoing struggles
How setting and holding clear, com…
-
TPP 453: Dr. Lisa Rappaport on Parenting Dyslexia and Supporting Dyslexic Learners in School and Beyond
15 juli 2025 · 31 min
In this conversation, I talk with neuropsychologist Lisa Rappaport about the realities of living with dyslexia—something she knows firsthand. We get into what dyslexia really is (and isn’t), how awareness and support have evolved, and why early diagnosis and strong advocacy matter so much. Lisa shares insights from both her personal and professional experience, and we talk through ways parents can support their kids with dyslexia at home and in school. Lees meer
About Lisa Rappaport, PhD
Lisa Rappaport, PhD, is a licensed psychologist in private practice in Manhattan with a specialty in working with and diagnosing learning disabilities. She has extensive training and experience in treating adults and children with dyslexia, attention deficit disorder, and anxiety disorders. In addition to her private practice, Dr.Rappaport is also on the faculty at the Rose F. Kennedy Center Children’s Evaluation and Rehabilitation Center at the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore, Albert Einstein College of Medicine. She lives in Manhattan.
Things you'll learn from this episode
Why early diagnosis and intervention are essential to support dyslexic children’s learning and confidence
How parental advocacy can play a powerful role in securing school accommodations and support
Why stigma and misunderstanding around dyslexia can negatively impact self-esteem—and how to counter it
How gaps in teacher training contribute to delays in recognizing and addressing dyslexia in the classroom
How consistent support at home and school can help dyslexic children thrive academically and emotionally
Resources mentioned
Dr. Lisa Rappaport’s website
Parenting Dyslexia: A Comprehensive Guide to Helping Kids Develop Confidence, Combat Shame, and Achieve Their True Potential by Lisa Rappaport, PhD and Jody Lyons, MEd
Parenting Dyslexia on Hachette
Author Micki Boas on Advocating for Dyslexic Students (Full-Tilt Parenting)
One in Five: How We’re Fighting for Our Dyslexic Kids in a System That’s Failing…
-
TPP 207a: Dr. Tina Payne Bryson on The Power of Showing Up
11 juli 2025 · 1 uur
Psychotherapist and author Tina Payne Bryson talks about what showing up for our kids looks like and the theory of secure attachment and how it affects our children on a neurological level. Lees meer
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
-
TPP 452: Dr. Laura Markham on Peacefully Parenting Siblings in Neurospicy Families
8 juli 2025 · 46 min
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Laura Markham to unpack the often messy world of sibling dynamics—especially when one or more kids are neurodivergent. We talk about why peaceful parenting starts with connection, how to handle those inevitable "it's not fair!" moments, and how to repair after conflict. Laura shares thoughtful, practical strategies for supporting each child’s unique needs while nurturing more positive sibling relationships, even when things feel really hard. Lees meer
About Dr. Laura Markham
Dr. Laura Markham is the author of Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids: How To Stop Yelling and Start Connecting, Peaceful Parent, Happy Siblings: How To Stop the Fighting and Raise Friends for Life, and The Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids Workbook: Using mindfulness and connection to raise resilient, joyful children and rediscover your love of parenting.
Dr. Laura Markham earned her PhD in clinical psychology at Columbia University and has worked as a parenting coach with countless families across the world. Over 170,000 moms and dads enjoy Dr. Laura’s free weekly coaching posts via email. You can sign up on any page of her website, Peacefulparenthappykids.com, which serves up Aha! Moments for parents of babies through teens. Dr. Laura’s aspiration is to change the world, one child at a time, by supporting parents. The proud mother of two thriving young adults who were raised with her peaceful parenting approach, she lives with her husband in New York.
Things you'll learn from this episode
Why parenting that prioritizes connection over strategy lays the foundation for healthy sibling dynamics
How self-regulation in parents shapes the emotional tone and effectiveness of conflict resolution between siblings
Why it’s important to embrace sibling conflict as a normal and teachable part of growing up, while guiding repair and emotional processing
How acknowledging each child’s unique needs and avoiding comparison fosters a sense of fairness and individual worth
Why modeling …
-
TPP 206a: Empathy and Perspective-Building: Why We Need it Now More Than Ever
4 juli 2025 · 40 min
Amanda Morin, an author, speaker, parent advocate, former early childhood educator and in-house expert for Understood, talks the importance and power of fostering empathy in our children. Lees meer
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
-
TPP 451: Dr. Ken Ginsburg on Lighthouse Parenting — Loving Guidance for an Enduring Bond
1 juli 2025 · 41 min
In this episode, I’m talking with pediatrician and author Ken Ginsburg about his new book Lighthouse Parenting. Ken shares his powerful framework for showing up as a steady, loving guide for our kids—offering both support and boundaries as they grow. We get into what it means to really know and prepare our kids, how to be their safe harbor in tough times, and why our own self-care matters just as much as theirs, especially in today’s world of social media and constant pressure. Lees meer
About Dr. Ken Ginsburg
Dr. Ken Ginsburg practices Adolescent Medicine at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and is a Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. Dr. Ginsburg practices social adolescent medicine – service with special attention to prevention and the recognition that social context and stressors affect both physical and emotional health. His research over the last 35 years has focused on facilitating youth to develop their own solutions to social problems and to teach adults how to better serve them.
He is the Founding Director of The Center for Parent and Teen Communications which works to empower parents with the skill-sets to strengthen their family connections and position them to guide their teens to become their best selves. It works to shift the cultural narrative about adolescence from being a time to survive to one in which development is to be optimized. His books include, Building Resilience in Children and Teens: Giving Kids Roots and Wings; Congrats- You’re Having a Teen!: Strengthen Your Family and Raise a Good Person; and Lighthouse Parenting:Raising your Child with Loving Guidance for an Enduring Bond. All of these works are published by The American Academy of Pediatrics.
He currently works with Covenant House International’s 35 sites to solidify and magnify their practice model rooted in the healing power of loving and respectful adult connections with youth.
Things you'll learn from this episode
What “lighthouse p…
-
TPP 204a: Musician Laurie Berkner on Inclusivity & Connecting with Neurodivergent Kids
27 juni 2025 · 37 min
Debbie talks with singer and songwriter Laurie Berkner (The Laurie Berkner Band) about writing music that connects with all kids, why Laurie's music so powerfully resonates with differently wired children, her mission of inclusivity, and more.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Lees meer -
TPP 450: Dr. David Yeager on What the Science Says About Motivating Young People
24 juni 2025 · 37 min
In this episode, I talk with David Yeager about what really fuels motivation and a sense of belonging for our kids—especially neurodivergent ones. We unpack the different mindsets adults bring to the table—like enforcer, protector, and mentor—and how shifting into a mentor mindset can help kids feel respected, understood, and more engaged. David shares powerful insights about what helps adolescents thrive, and we explore how things like trust, connection, and belief in a child’s potential can make all the difference. Lees meer
About David Yeager, PhD
David Yeager, PhD, is a professor of psychology at the University of Texas at Austin and the cofounder of the Texas Behavioral Science and Policy Institute. He is best known for his research conducted with Carol Dweck, Angela Duckworth, and Greg Walton on short but powerful interventions that influence adolescent behaviors such as motivation, engagement, healthy eating, bullying, stress, mental health, and more. He has consulted for Google, Microsoft, Disney, and the World Bank, as well as for the White House and the governments in California, Texas, and Norway. His research has been featured in The New York Times Magazine, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Scientific American, CNN, Fox News, The Guardian, The Atlantic, and more. Clarivate Web of Science ranks Yeager as one of the top 0.1% most-influential psychologists in the world over the past decade. Prior to his career as a scientist, he was a middle school teacher and a basketball coach. He earned his PhD and MA at Stanford University and his BA and MEd at the University of Notre Dame. He lives in Austin, Texas, with his wife and their four children.
Things you'll learn from this episode
Why motivation thrives in environments where kids feel respected and understood
The three mindsets adults often embody when parenting
Why belonging and a child’s belief in their potential are critical drivers of motivation and long-term success
Research-backed interventio…