Parenting Great Kids with Dr. Meg Meeker

What happens when every instinct tells you something is wrong, but no one can find answers?In this deeply moving conversation, Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with Christina Bernardo, Cuban-American mother of five and co-founder of Avocado Health, to discuss parenting through uncertainty, navigating unimaginable grief, and learning to trust your instincts.Christina shares the story of her daughter, Aviva, whose health struggles began at just nine days old. Despite six unexplained hospitalizations, extensive testing, and consultations with specialists, doctors were never able to determine why Aviva experienced recurring episodes of lethargy, low body temperature, slow heart rate, and breathing difficulties. At just 10½ months old, Aviva passed away when her heart suddenly stopped.Christina opens up about the guilt, questions, and heartbreak that followed, as well as the unique challenges of grieving during the COVID pandemic. She discusses how writing became a lifeline in processing not only the loss of Aviva, but other layers of grief connected to family relationships and past experiences.The conversation also explores how friends and family can better support those who are grieving, the importance of self-compassion, and how Christina transformed her pain into purpose by helping launch Avocado Health. Designed to empower parents, Avocado Health combines clinician-vetted AI guidance with access to parent coaches, workshops, and trusted resources to help families advocate confidently for their children.If you've ever questioned your instincts as a parent, struggled through loss, or wondered how to support someone who is grieving, this episode offers wisdom, hope, and practical encouragement.In This EpisodeChristina's experience with postpartum anxietyAviva's first medical emergency and six unexplained hospitalizationsThe grief, guilt, and "what ifs" that follow child lossProcessing grief through writing and creative expressionHow friends can show up for grieving familiesLearning self-compassion after tragedyThe story behind Avocado HealthHow AI can support parents without replacing medical professionalsWhy trusting your gut matters as a parentFinding purpose after profound lossConnect with Avocado HealthLearn more about Avocado Health and its parent-support resources at https://avocadohealth.com.Episode Timestamps00:00 Tragic Cold Open00:15 Meet Christina Bernardo01:26 Postpartum Anxiety Reality03:25 Aviva's First Scare06:09 Six Hospitalizations09:46 Aftermath and Guilt14:13 Writing Through Grief17:55 How Friends Can Help19:33 Show Up For Grief21:04 Turning Pain Into Purpose23:14 Self Critic To Self Kindness25:02 Parent Coach In Pocket26:13 How The AI Works27:51 Origin Story And Pivot30:04 Human Coaches And Workshops31:56 Why Avocado Health32:18 Trust Your Gut36:06 How To Join And Connect37:00 Final TakeawaysSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker is joined by Tia Slightman to explore the "why" behind your child's behavior. Together, they provide simple, effective strategies for disciplining with love and respect—without power struggles or emotional explosions.You’ll learn how your own personality influences your discipline style, how to set firm boundaries, and how to stay calm even when your child isn’t. They also dive into the Behavior Needs Roadmap, helping you handle challenging behaviors with confidence. Plus, there's encouragement for single parents and those navigating trauma recovery with children.Whether you're parenting a strong-willed child or just tired of yelling, this episode offers hope—and real tools you can use today.Tia Slightman is a parenting strategist and creator of the Behavior Needs Roadmap. She helps parents decode their child’s behavior and discipline with empathy and consistency. Learn more at www.tiaslightman.com.As Heard on PGKCheck out other books we've talked about on the podcast.https://amzn.to/46IsRjDDisclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.Subscribe to the Parenting Great Kids Newsletter:https://bit.ly/46G4Niw💡 If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure how to move forward in your parenting journey, Dr. Meg Meeker can help. With decades of experience as a pediatrician and parenting coach, Dr. Meg offers 1-on-1 coaching to help you build confidence, strengthen your family, and parent with purpose.Start your coaching journey todaySponsors:Hungryroot – 40% off + free gift with code DRMEGFam Gabs – 10% off conversation cards with code DRMEGPODK12-powered Schools – Tuition-free, accredited online learning for K–12Thrive Causemetics – Clean beauty with purpose. 10% off your first orderListen to Aidee, "Nothing Rhymes With Orange": https://platoon.lnk.to/nothing-rhymes-with-orangeRula makes quality mental healthcare accessible and affordable—matching you with licensed therapists who accept your insurance, often with appointments as soon as tomorrow. Get started at Rula.com/drmegSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In Part 2 of this live series, Meg returns with practical solutions for one of the biggest challenges facing today’s families: protecting kids from online porn and predators. If Part 1 opened your eyes to the harsh reality, Part 2 arms you with real tools, proven strategies, and powerful conversations that can help you take back control.Join Meg as she unpacks:How predators target kids through popular apps and gamesWhy delaying internet access might be the best parenting move you makeThe best parental control software (like BARK and Screen Strong)The safest starter devices for kids (Gab Watch and beyond)How to open conversations about sex, privacy, and online dangers with your childHow to monitor devices without breaking trustThis episode is filled with hope, empowerment, and practical tactics you can start using today. Don't miss this vital continuation of the conversation every parent needs to hear.👉 Want all the resources mentioned in today’s episode?Sign up here to get the full guide.💬 Need help applying this to your family? Book a coaching session with Meg today.Sponsors:Hungryroot – 40% off + free gift with code DRMEGFam Gabs – 10% off conversation cards with code DRMEGPODK12-powered Schools – Tuition-free, accredited online learning for K–12Thrive Causemetics – Clean beauty with purpose. 10% off your first order Listen to Aidee, “Nothing Rhymes With Orange”: https://platoon.lnk.to/nothing-rhymes-with-orange  Rula makes quality mental healthcare accessible and affordable—matching you with licensed therapists who accept your insurance, often with appointments as soon as tomorrow. Get started at Rula.com/drmegTags: Pornography, Screens, Social Media, Online Safety, Parenting Styles, Sexual Abuse, Mental Health, Self Esteem, Child Development, Time ManagementSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In You Can’t Teach Calm If You Can’t Be Calm, Dr. Meg Meeker welcomes guests Kahlila Robinson and Sarah Gerstenzang, co-authors of The Self-Regulation Workbook for Children Ages 5 to 8. Together, they unpack how parental self-regulation plays a crucial role in helping children build emotional resilience and develop lifelong emotional skills.This episode dives into why your own calm sets the tone for your child’s behavior, especially when dealing with post-COVID stress, emotional outbursts, or peer conflicts. Kahlila and Sarah share practical, science-backed tools to help parents recognize emotional contagion, model regulation, and foster secure attachments.Whether you're managing meltdowns or building daily routines with intention, this conversation reminds us: you can’t teach calm if you can’t be calm yourself.👉Want personalized guidance from Dr. Meg?If you're struggling to stay calm in the chaos of parenting—or just want expert advice tailored to your family's needs—Dr. Meg offers one-on-one coaching for parents who are ready to grow, heal, and lead with confidence. Learn more here. 🧷Links The Self-Regulation Workbook for Children Ages 5 to 8 by Kahlila Robinson and Sarah Gerstenzanghttps://amzn.to/4gLC8fqMeg's Amazon Favshttps://amzn.to/42QT3reAs an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.📌 Timestamps00:00 – Introduction to Parenting Challenges00:33 – Launch of the Self-Regulation Workbook01:26 – Why Parental Self-Regulation is Key02:40 – Staying Calm in Heated Moments05:29 – How Emotions Transfer Between Parent & Child08:31 – Addressing Post-COVID Anxiety in Kids11:08 – Helping Kids Develop Emotional Awareness12:34 – Simple De-Escalation Tools for Parents17:44 – Matching Strategies to Different Child Personalities18:37 – Connection-Based Discipline21:28 – Children’s Core Emotional Needs23:31 – Teaching Kids to Cope with Stress25:15 – Managing Peer Conflict and Social Stress28:30 – Healing Emotional Wounds in Childhood30:50 – Balancing Work, Stress & Parenting36:14 – Final Thoughts & ResourcesSponsors:Hungryroot – 40% off + free gift with code DRMEGFam Gabs – 10% off conversation cards with code DRMEGPODK12-powered Schools – Tuition-free, accredited online learning for K–12Thrive Causemetics – Clean beauty with purpose. 10% off your first order Listen to Aidee, “Nothing Rhymes With Orange”: https://platoon.lnk.to/nothing-rhymes-with-orange  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Is pornography hijacking your child’s brain?In this essential episode of Parenting Great Kids with Dr. Meg Meeker, Dr. Meg sits down with Parker Hymas, Director of Public Outreach at Fight The New Drug, to expose the growing threat pornography poses to kids and teens in today’s digital-first world.📊 First exposure happens as early as age 9.🧠 Discover how pornography rewires young brains and distorts healthy relationships.💬 Learn how to start honest, shame-free conversations with your children before the internet does.From the neuroscience behind porn addiction to tools for empowering your family, Parker Hymas shares evidence-based insights and real-life solutions every parent needs.In this episode, we cover:The alarming rise in early exposure to pornographyWhat porn does to the developing brain—based on scienceThe mental and relational fallout of chronic porn useDebunking the myth of “harmless” pornographyHow to talk to your kids about porn without shame or fearActionable resources from Fight The New Drug to protect your familyOur Guest:Parker Hymas is the Director of Public Outreach at Fight the New Drug, a non-religious, non-legislative nonprofit raising awareness about the harmful effects of pornography. Through science, personal stories, and engaging presentations, Parker equips parents, educators, and communities with tools to understand how porn impacts the brain, relationships, and society. 📬 Never Miss an Event – Subscribe to our mailing list for live event invites, new episode alerts, and weekly parenting wisdom.👉 Join Our Mailing ListSponsors:Hungryroot – 40% off + free gift with code DRMEGFam Gabs – 10% off conversation cards with code DRMEGPODK12-powered Schools – Tuition-free, accredited online learning for K–12Thrive Causemetics – Clean beauty with purpose. 10% off your first order Listen to Aidee, “Nothing Rhymes With Orange”: https://platoon.lnk.to/nothing-rhymes-with-orange  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this special Ask Dr. Meg live Q&A session, Dr. Meg Meeker dives into the 7 most common parenting mistakes—but this time, with a powerful twist: she shares how each of these actions actually makes your child feel. From yelling and criticism to withdrawing affection or missing connection, Dr. Meg walks listeners through not only what to avoid—but how to repair and rebuild trust, connection, and emotional security.You’ll hear real questions from real parents, answered in real time. Whether you’ve been struggling with guilt, disconnection, or uncertainty in your parenting, this episode will give you the clarity, compassion, and confidence to parent better—starting today.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:Why yelling often has nothing to do with your kids—and what it’s really sayingHow repeated criticism affects your child’s self-worthThe power of saying "I'm sorry"—even when you're the parentWhy kids feel abandoned when affection is withdrawnHow distraction can make your child feel invisibleThe subtle but deep effects of not fully accepting your childWhy time together matters more than any "parenting hack"Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome to Ask Dr. Meg Live01:20 – The 7 Most Common Parenting Mistakes03:15 – Mistake #1: Yelling (and What It Does to Kids Inside)06:52 – Mistake #2: Constant Criticism and Its Emotional Impact10:45 – Mistake #3: Not Apologizing—Why It Breeds Resentment14:11 – Mistake #4: Using Affection as a Punishment17:05 – Mistake #5: Distraction and the “Invisible Child” Syndrome19:38 – Mistake #6: Projecting Your Expectations22:50 – Mistake #7: Failing to Prioritize Time with Your Kids25:34 – Live Questions From the Audience29:41 – Final Thoughts: Grace, Growth, and Being a Work in Progress31:08 – Join the Ask Dr. Meg Community & NewsletterJoin Us:🌐 Ask Dr. Meg Community – Get direct access to live Q&As, exclusive content, and a tribe of intentional parents. 👉 Home - Meeker Parenting📬 Never Miss an Event – Subscribe to our mailing list for live event invites, new episode alerts, and weekly parenting wisdom. 👉 Join Our Mailing ListSponsors:Hungryroot – 40% off + free gift with code DRMEGFam Gabs – 10% off conversation cards with code DRMEGPODK12-powered Schools – Tuition-free, accredited online learning for K–12Thrive Causemetics – Clean beauty with purpose. 10% off your first orderSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Can faith and perseverance really transform a life from survival to success?In this inspiring episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker welcomes Angela “Stikks” Adams—a single mom turned successful model and founder of the Christian Models Association. Angela opens up about her incredible story of overcoming hardship, staying grounded in her Christian faith, and choosing purpose over popularity.From battling poverty to breaking into the modeling industry without compromising her values, Angela shares the real-life lessons and God-centered strategies that helped her rise above. She also explains how parents can pass on "God-confidence" instead of self-confidence to help their children walk in truth and strength.If you're a single mom, a parent trying to raise faith-filled kids, or someone searching for hope during hard times, this episode will speak directly to your heart.👉 Join the Ask Dr. Meg Parenting Portal Connect with like-minded parents on a mission to raise spiritually strong, emotionally healthy kids.In This Episode:The raw challenges of single motherhood and starting over with nothingHow faith can reshape your identity and futureThe hidden dangers of seeking validation from the worldBuilding "God-confidence" in your childrenCreating a God-honoring career in a values-challenging industryPractical encouragement for moms navigating loneliness, exhaustion, and uncertaintyWhy purpose and obedience matter more than popularity and applauseAbout Angela "Stikks" AdamsAngela is a professional model, speaker, and founder of the Christian Models Association, an organization dedicated to helping aspiring models walk in their faith while pursuing careers in fashion and entertainment. Her passion is to guide others, especially single mothers, into their God-given potential through authenticity, discipline, and spiritual alignment.Episode Highlights:00:00 – Struggling to find an apartment as a single mom 01:02 – Parenting in a world that pressures compromise 01:46 – Pursuing God-given dreams despite hardships 02:44 – Single motherhood and trusting God through adversity 10:30 – Moving across the country to rebuild a life 15:55 – Finding work and divine encouragement 17:36 – The importance of real, face-to-face interactions 17:48 – Entering the modeling world with strong values 18:03 – Avoiding spiritual and professional traps 18:50 – Staying true to God’s purpose 21:42 – Teaching children faith-based confidence 22:47 – Launching the Christian Models Association 24:05 – Why "God-confidence" outlasts self-confidence 29:28 – Powerful encouragement for single mothers 34:30 – What it means to model with purposeSponsors:Hungryroot – 40% off + free gift with code DRMEGFam Gabs – 10% off conversation cards with code DRMEGPODK12-powered Schools – Tuition-free, accredited online learning for K–12Thrive Causemetics – Clean beauty with purpose. 10% off your first orderSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Can today’s teens still achieve financial freedom in a world of soaring inflation, student debt, and housing costs? In this episode, Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with Rachel Rodgers, entrepreneur and author of Future Millionaires, to uncover actionable strategies for helping young people become financially independent.From building marketable skills to encouraging entrepreneurship and resilience, Rachel shares powerful tools that empower teens to take control of their financial futures.In this episode, we discuss:Why the traditional American Dream is harder to reach—and what to do about itHow to help your child recognize their natural skills and turn them into incomeThe “Million Dollar Decisions” formula and why it mattersWhy teaching kids to embrace failure can lead to lasting successSmart, age-appropriate ways to introduce kids to investing and money management🎉 Join the Parenting Great Kids Community, where you'll find support from like-minded parents who are committed to raising emotionally healthy, spiritually strong, and digitally safe kids.About Rachel RodgersRachel Rodgers is a business coach, lawyer, and bestselling author of We Should All Be Millionaires. Her latest book, Future Millionaires, offers a blueprint for teaching teens how to build wealth, develop decision-making skills, and create lasting independence. She’s the founder of Hello Seven, a company that helps women and people of color grow their businesses and transform their financial futures.Our Sponsors:Hungryroot – 40% off plus a free item in every box with code DRMEGFam Gabs – Spark real conversations with your kids. Use code DRMEGPOD for 10% offK12-powered schools – Tuition-free, accredited online public education for K–12Thrive Causemetics – Clean, vegan beauty that gives back. Get 10% off your first orderEpisode Breakdown:  00:00 Introduction: Financial Challenges for Young Adults00:56 The American Dream and Its Challenges01:37 Strategies for Financial Independence03:52 The Importance of Marketable Skills05:35 Encouraging Entrepreneurship in Teens10:21 Parental Guidance and Support14:36 Teaching Kids About Money18:21 Motivating Kids with Incentives19:28 Million Dollar Decisions Formula21:10 Teaching Kids Decision-Making Skills24:02 Encouraging Kids to Embrace Failure29:08 Financial Education for Kids35:11 Conclusion and ResourcesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.