Parenting Great Kids with Dr. Meg Meeker

In this powerful and eye-opening episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker speaks with Ray Alex Williams, a man who transitioned to living as a trans woman—and later de-transitioned. His story offers rare, firsthand insight into what happens when someone believes gender transition is the answer, only to discover it isn't.As more parents navigate complex conversations with their children around gender identity, this interview is a must-listen. Ray dives deep into how childhood influences, exposure to pornography, the allure of a new identity, and cultural pressures led him toward transition—and why faith ultimately led him back.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeThe emotional toll that transitioning takes.How pornography and culture distort gender identity.Why not every child needs immediate affirmation.How silence from parents can send the wrong message.The role of faith in finding identity and healing.About Our GuestRay Alex Williams is a writer, speaker, and advocate who shares his personal journey of gender transition, de-transition, and spiritual transformation. With deep candor, Ray speaks about the psychological, cultural, and spiritual factors that influenced his identity—and how his return to faith helped him find peace. His story offers rare insight for parents, pastors, and professionals navigating today’s conversations around gender and truth.👉 Learn more about Ray and read his writings at Ray Alex Williams | Substack.🎧 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.

From finding joy in small, everyday moments to leveraging technology as a tool for inspiration, this episode offers practical advice for overwhelmed parents and emphasizes how awe can be a protective emotional anchor in today’s chaotic world. Whether it's watching clouds, taking in art, or sharing a heartfelt show like Carl the Collector, you’ll walk away with actionable tips and renewed inspiration to reconnect with your child through the lens of wonder.About Our Guest: Deborah Farmer KrisDeborah Farmer Kris is a parenting journalist, education columnist, and child development expert with a deep passion for helping families rediscover joy and connection. She is a columnist for PBS KIDS for Parents and the founder of Parenthood365, where she offers practical resources to help parents navigate the beautiful (and messy) moments of everyday life. Deborah is also an educational consultant and frequent speaker on how to cultivate awe, resilience, and curiosity in children. Resources:Raising Awe-Seekers: How the Science of Wonder Helps Our Kids Thrive (Free Spirit Parenting™) – Paperback, May 27, 2025 👉 https://amzn.to/4ozm1EHAs Heard on PGKCheck out other books we've talked about on the podcast. https://amzn.to/46IsRjD Disclaimer: 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 todayFrom finding joy in small, everyday moments to leveraging technology as a tool for inspiration, this episode offers practical advice for overwhelmed parents and emphasizes how awe can be a protective emotional anchor in today’s chaotic world. Whether it's watching clouds, taking in art, or sharing a heartfelt show like Carl the Collector, you’ll walk away with actionable tips and renewed inspiration to reconnect with your child through the lens of wonder.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 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 this powerful episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with journalist and author Leland Vittert, who shares his compelling journey growing up on the autism spectrum. From enduring bullying to discovering his voice through writing, Leland opens up about the key role his father played in his development and how perseverance and unconditional support changed the trajectory of his life.Leland’s memoir, Born Lucky, chronicles his experience navigating the world with neurodiversity, the impact of an autism diagnosis, and the emotional highs and lows of childhood. This episode is a message of hope for parents raising neurodiverse children, reminding us that persistence, trust, and love truly matter.Key Themes:The emotional and social challenges of growing up autisticThe long-term effects of bullyingWhy early diagnosis and support matterThe powerful role of a present and engaged parentLearning social skills and resilience in real life📘 Learn more about Leland Vittert’s book Born Lucky: https://amzn.to/42Ae4X8Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.📢 Join the Ask Dr. Meg Parenting Portal for exclusive content, expert-led courses, and tools to help you parent with confidence.Sign up here for the free webinar: Protecting Your Kids from Pornography, Part 2:What You Can Do.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/drmegSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this compelling episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with Dr. Gertrude Lyons, TEDx speaker, parenting coach, and author of the upcoming book Rewrite the Mother Code: From Sacrifice to Stardust. Together, they explore how outdated beliefs around motherhood continue to shape women's emotional lives—and how to break free from them.They discuss how emotional suppression, lack of boundaries, and perfectionism are robbing mothers of joy. Dr. Lyons challenges moms to prioritize their emotional wellness, set healthy boundaries, and reclaim their identity so they can raise emotionally resilient kids.What You’ll Learn:Why self-sacrifice is not the gold standard of parentingHow generational parenting patterns shape today's mothersWhy self-care is essential—not selfishTools for rewriting the "mother code"How emotional intelligence starts with youThe link between maternal burnout and child developmentGuest: Dr. Gertrude Lyons – TEDx speaker, author, transformational coach Visit: drgertrudelyons.com 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   Ask Dr. Meg Community – Get direct access to live Q&As, exclusive content, and a tribe of intentional parents.👉 Home - Meeker ParentingSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What happens when the kids no longer need you 24/7?In this heartfelt episode of Parenting Great Kids with Dr. Meg Meeker, we dive deep into the emotional and identity-shifting journey that many mothers face when transitioning from full-time parenting into the next chapter of their lives.Dr. Meg sits down with Karen Johnson, a former educator, stay-at-home mom, and author of What Do I Want to Be When They Grow Up?. Together, they unpack what it means to grieve the end of hands-on motherhood while rediscovering purpose, passions, and personal identity.Whether your children are in high school, heading off to college, or already out of the house, this episode offers compassionate, real-world advice for embracing life beyond daily parenting.In this episode, we discuss:The silent identity crisis many moms face after full-time parentingWhy it’s okay to grieve while still feeling gratefulHow guilt and shame keep women stuck—and how to break freeThe power of strong friendships and finding your tribePractical steps to dream again and prioritize your own self-careReframing motherhood as a journey with many chapters—not a single roleJoin Us:🌐 Ask Dr. Meg Community – Get direct access to live Q&As, exclusive content, and a tribe of intentional parents.👉 Home - Meeker ParentingAbout Karen JohnsonKaren Johnson is a former teacher turned stay-at-home mom and now the author of What Do I Want to Be When They Grow Up?. Her work encourages mothers to reflect, reset, and reignite their sense of self as they move into a new phase of motherhood📬 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.

Are your parenting methods helping or hindering your child’s development?In this episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker, pediatrician and bestselling author, breaks down the four key parenting styles—authoritative, authoritarian, permissive, and neglectful—and how each one affects your child’s emotional and behavioral growth.You’ll learn how to identify your default parenting style, what might be influencing it (including your own upbringing), and how to shift toward a more effective and loving approach. Dr. Meeker also tackles common parenting challenges like setting boundaries, dealing with whining, and balancing warmth with discipline.Whether you’re a first-time parent or raising teens, this episode offers a practical roadmap for becoming a more intentional, confident parent.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:The psychology behind different parenting stylesWhy authoritative parenting leads to emotionally resilient, responsible kidsThe risks of authoritarian, permissive, and neglectful stylesHow your own childhood shapes your parentingHow to set clear boundaries without being harshReal-life scenarios + listener Q&A with Dr. MeekerThe unique role of fathers in shaping secure children👉 Join the Ask Dr. Meg Parenting PortalConnect with like-minded parents on a mission to raise spiritually strong, emotionally healthy kids.Timestamps for Easy Navigation:00:00 – Introduction: Why Parenting Style Matters00:37 – Discovering Your Default Parenting Approach03:34 – The Four Parenting Styles Defined04:32 – What Makes Authoritative Parenting So Effective07:57 – The Downside of Authoritarian Parenting10:32 – The Dangers of Permissive Parenting13:01 – Understanding Neglectful Parenting14:18 – Helicopter Parenting: Where It Fits14:57 – How Your Upbringing Shapes Your Parenting18:54 – Time to Reflect: What’s Working, What’s Not19:52 – Comparing Authoritarian vs. Authoritative26:02 – What Permissive Parenting Looks Like26:42 – Teaching Kids Self-Discipline27:15 – Authoritative vs. Permissive: The Line Between27:55 – Risks of Uninvolved Parenting29:38 – Helping Your Child Build Confidence30:01 – Pitfalls of Authoritarian Homes30:43 – Blending Styles and Evolving as a Parent34:12 – What is “Parenting Preload”?36:24 – Strategies for Whining and Setting Boundaries45:31 – Why Fathers Are Critical to Child Development47:22 – Join the Parenting Great Kids CommunitySponsors: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.

Parenting strong-willed kids can be exhausting—but it doesn’t have to be a constant battle. In this episode, Dr. Meg is joined by Kirk Martin, founder of Celebrate Calm and host of the Calm Parenting Podcast, to talk about how to handle big emotions—starting with your own. From defusing power struggles to managing anxiety and sibling fights, Kirk shares practical, often humorous strategies to help you stay calm, confident, and connected to your kids.You Will Learn:Why your calm is more important than your child’s behaviorHow to avoid power struggles with strong-willed kidsSimple ways to lower anxiety in your homeThe difference between teaching and controllingCreative solutions for homework, sibling fights, and moreHow humor and self-reflection can shift the parenting dynamicJoin the PGK Community!Looking for more support? Join our Parenting Great Kids community  where you'll find exclusive content from Dr. Meg, parenting resources, expert interviews, and a community of parents just like you. 👉 Learn more & sign up hereAbout Our Guest:Kirk Martin is the founder of Celebrate Calm, a behavior training resource that has helped over 500,000 parents and teachers worldwide. He is also the host of the Calm Parenting Podcast. Known for his practical strategies and relatable humor, Kirk teaches families how to stop yelling, defuse defiance, and build stronger connections with their kids. Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction: Parenting strong-willed kids00:27 – Meet Kirk Martin01:37 – Why parental self-control matters most02:50 – Strategies for managing defiance06:42 – Creative homework solutions09:48 – Handling sibling fights without yelling14:16 – Reducing parental stress17:47 – From controlling to teaching18:52 – Dealing with tween attitude21:00 – Understanding and easing anxiety in kids27:35 – How humor builds connection                                                    32:02 – Encouraging honest communication34:32 – Final thoughts and resourcesOur 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 orderSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Do your kids shut down when you try to talk? In this episode, Dr. Meg Meeker is joined by licensed therapist Beliza Perez, the creator of FAM Gabs, for a sponsored conversation on how to build emotional closeness through simple, intentional questions.You’ll learn why some kids stop sharing, how to avoid parent-child communication traps, and what to do instead. Beliza shares therapy-based tools—including non-verbal techniques and calming rituals—that help parents raise emotionally safe and connected kids.In This Episode:Conversation hacks that unlock emotional connectionThe #1 reason kids stop opening up—and how to reverse itWhy "quality time" doesn't have to mean more timeHow to create low-pressure, trust-building momentsTools like finger mazes and prompt cards that actually workThis episode includes a sponsored segment in collaboration with FAM Gabs.🎉 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.Join today at meekerparenting.com/community⏱️ Episode Breakdown:00:00 – Welcome to Parenting Great Kids00:31 – What kids are stressed about (but not saying)01:10 – Meet Beliza Perez, therapist and creator of FAM Gabs01:35 – How FAM Gabs helps spark real conversations02:56 – Top conversation starters that work03:51 – Parental reactions: Hesitation and surprise05:24 – Creating safety through open-ended questions07:01 – The therapy roots of FAM Gabs09:10 – Using tools like FAM Gabs in real-life families15:06 – Common issues in child and teen therapy16:32 – Navigating personality differences in families16:45 – Why communication is key to healing18:26 – The creative journey behind the questions18:58 – How to ask questions that build trust20:37 – What nonverbal cues reveal about your child22:27 – Why short, mindful moments matter more24:28 – What’s next for FAM Gabs27:33 – Using finger mazes for anxiety relief28:57 – Where to get FAM Gabs29:26 – Final takeaways from Dr. Meg and BelizaBeliza Perez is a licensed therapist and the founder of FAM Gabs, a family conversation card deck that empowers parents to build stronger emotional bonds with their kids. Her clinical work and creative tools center on healing through connection.Resources & Links:Get your own FAM Gabs → https://www.famgabs.com Work with Dr. Meg → https://meekerparenting.comOur SponsorsHungryroot – 40% off plus a free item in every box at hungryroot.com/drmeg with code DRMEGFam Gabs – Spark real conversations with your kids using this therapist-designed card deck. Search Fam Gabs on Amazon and use code DRMEGPOD for 10% offK12-powered schools – Tuition-free, accredited online public education for K–12 at K12.com/DRMEGThrive Causemetics – Clean, vegan beauty that gives back. Get 10% off your first order at ThriveCausemetics.com/DRMEGSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.