Parenting Great Kids with Dr. Meg Meeker

• Ep. 266: Teen Dating: What I Wish I Knew | Reflections from Adulthood

  💡 What do adults wish they had known about teen dating? How can parents guide their teens to make healthier relationship choices? In this episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with team member Alexie, who reflects on 20 years of dating experiences—starting at just 15. She shares insights on relationship challenges, emotional struggles, and regrets, highlighting the impact of parental guidance and the importance of open conversations in shaping healthier dating decisions. 🎙️ In This Episode, You’ll Learn: ✅ Why early dating experiences shape long-term relationship patterns ✅ How self-confidence and emotional awareness impact dating choices ✅ The role of social media in modern teen relationships ✅ How parents can set healthy boundaries without alienating their teens ✅ What every teen should hear before they start dating 💡 Want expert guidance from Dr. Meg? Click here to book a coaching session and get personalized parenting advice! 📢 Subscribe & Leave a Review! If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, rate, and review so more parents can learn how to help their teens navigate dating with confidence! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Ep. 265: Navigating Teen Dating: Rules, Expectations, and Communication (Part 1)

  With Valentine’s Day just behind us, many parents are reflecting on teen dating—when it should start, what rules to set, and how to guide their kids through relationships. In this Ask Dr. Meg episode of the Parenting Great Kids podcast, Dr. Meg Meeker answers the most common questions from parents, covering everything from the right age to start dating to setting healthy boundaries and expectations. She emphasizes the importance of open communication, encouraging parents to involve their teens in setting dating guidelines. Dr. Meeker also shares why she advises against high school dating due to its emotional impact and potential for heartbreak, advocating instead for strong friendships. Additionally, she highlights practical strategies for helping teens make informed choices, such as role-playing real-life scenarios and setting non-negotiable character traits for future partners. This episode is part one of a two-part series on teen dating. In part two, we’ll hear from a young adult who reflects on what she wishes she had known about dating as a teenager. Don't forget to enable notifications on your podcast app so you don't miss part two.   Want to work directly with Dr. Meg? Click here to book a personalized coaching session and get expert guidance on navigating your child’s journey through teen dating! Key Moments 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:18 Why Discuss Dating? 02:12 Should Kids Date in High School? 02:29 The Impact of Breakups 03:25 Mistakes and Risks in High School Dating 04:34 Friendships vs. Dating 05:36 Understanding Dating Expectations 06:10 The Pressures of Dating 17:49 Setting Boundaries and Rules 21:54 Setting Curfews and Boundaries 22:47 Discussing Dating Rules with Your Spouse 23:26 The Dangers of Underage Drinking 25:22 Role-Playing Dating Scenarios 30:02 Handling a Problematic Boyfriend 34:27 Building Trust and Setting Expectations 37:28 Staying Involved in Your Child's Private World 40:52 Concluding Thoughts and Professional Help Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Ep. 264: Authenticity and Boundaries: Building Stronger Families and Personal Growth

  “Authenticity isn’t about staying the same—it’s about being true to yourself across life’s many roles.” In this episode, media personality Jeanne Sparrow shares how she has embraced authenticity throughout her career and personal life, offering practical lessons for maintaining genuine connections. From interviewing iconic figures to navigating personal relationships, Jeanne reveals how to balance shifting roles while remaining true to yourself. This episode is packed with actionable advice for parents and professionals, highlighting the importance of setting boundaries, listening generously, and building authentic connections that foster trust and growth. Ready to take the next step in your parenting journey? Connect 1:1 with Dr. Meg for personalized coaching tailored to your family’s needs. Time-Stamped Highlights: 00:00 Understanding Authenticity Across Life’s Roles 00:43 Career Lessons and Staying Genuine 05:19 Parental Expectations and Authenticity 08:07 The Importance of Setting Boundaries 08:40 Practical Exercises for Living Authentically 24:47 Communication Tips for Parents and Professionals 33:36 Conclusion and Coaching Resources Key Discussion Topics: What Authenticity Really Means: Jeanne discusses how authenticity involves adapting to life’s different roles without losing your core self. Setting Boundaries That Work: Learn how to define personal limits and recognize when external pressures require realignment. Communication That Builds Stronger Relationships: Jeanne’s “listen generously” method offers powerful techniques for connecting with both children and colleagues. Practical Exercises for Self-Discovery: Discover exercises from Jeanne’s book that help you reflect on daily actions and uncover your authentic self. Whether you’re a parent looking to improve communication with your children or a professional navigating workplace dynamics, this episode is your guide to living authentically and fostering stronger connections. About Our Guest: Jeanne Sparrow Jeanne Sparrow is an award-winning communicator with a distinguished career in television, radio, and public speaking. She currently hosts a weekly radio show on Chicago’s V103 and the Fearless Authenticity podcast on the iHeart Podcast Network. Her upcoming book, Fearless Authenticity: Lead Better, Sell More, and Speak Sensationally, is available for pre-order (link in the show notes). Jeanne’s expertise in guiding others to embrace their authentic selves has made her a sought-after speaker and mentor. Our Sponsors: Clear Airways, Clear Mind — Find gentle, effective relief from sinus discomfort with DeepCozy. Get 15% off all products at deepcozy.com with promo code DRMEG. Track, Train, and Transform — The Amazfit Active 2 smartwatch blends sleek design, advanced tracking, and AI-driven coaching. Get 10% off at www.amazfit.com/DRMEG. Hungryroot is your personal shopper and nutritionist combined, making healthy eating easy and stress-free. Get 40% off your first box, plus enjoy a free item in every box for life! Visit Hungryroot.com/drmeg and use code DRMEG to claim this exclusive offer. Investing Made Simple — Acorns makes it easy to start investing with just spare change. Join over 13 million customers who’ve given their money a chance to grow. Get started at acorns.com/drmeg. Stay warm this season with Heat Holders®—from thermal socks to cozy hats, gloves, and layers, they’ve got you covered. Get 15% off at heatholders.com with code “DRMEG” and free shipping on orders over $25! Family-Centered Recovery — Equip Health offers virtual eating disorder treatment that empowers families to heal together. Visit equiphealth.com/drmeg to learn more. Smart Money Habits Start Here — Acorns Early helps kids learn the value of money with a debit card, chores tracker, and interactive lessons. Get your first month free at acornsearly.com/drmeg. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Ep. 263: From Dry January to Sober Living: Is It Time to Make Sobriety Permanent?

  In this episode, we delve into the journey of sobriety with Chris Janssen, MA, BCC, author of Grace Yourself: How to Show Up for the Sober Life You Want. Chris shares her inspiring story, from recognizing her own drinking problem to the pivotal moment that led her to seek help. She provides valuable insights into understanding addiction, managing family and social dynamics, and the importance of building a supportive community. Listeners will also gain practical advice on navigating difficult family conversations about alcohol use and preventing substance use in their children. This episode offers empowering strategies for individuals and families striving for a healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle. Whether you’re reflecting on your own relationship with alcohol or seeking ways to support loved ones, this conversation delivers inspiration and actionable tips for embracing a sober, balanced life. Visit us online for access to free resources and book your coaching session with Dr. Meg. About Chris Janssen Chris Janssen, MA, BCC, is a bestselling author, award-winning speaker, and board-certified coach with a master’s in counseling psychology. Specializing in high performers, she helps clients achieve sustainable results by combining her expertise in the psychology of success with their skills. Chris trained as a Results Coach with Tony Robbins and has been recognized as one of Brainz Magazine's Global Top 500 Influential Leaders. Key Moments: 00:00 Introduction to Dry January and Sober Living 00:34 Meet Chris Janssen: Author and Sober Living Advocate 01:08 Recognizing Problem Drinking 02:41 Chris Janssen's Personal Journey 04:24 The Turning Point and Seeking Help 06:05 Understanding Addiction and Recovery 08:53 Navigating Family and Social Dynamics 22:30 Talking to Kids About Drinking 31:42 Preparing Kids for College 33:36 Conclusion and Resources Our Sponsors: Stay warm this season with Heat Holders®—from thermal socks to cozy hats, gloves, and layers, they’ve got you covered. Get 15% off at heatholders.com with code “DRMEG” and free shipping on orders over $25! Hungryroot is your personal shopper and nutritionist combined, making healthy eating easy and stress-free. Get 40% off your first box, plus enjoy a free item in every box for life! Visit Hungryroot.com/drmeg and use code DRMEG to claim this exclusive offer. Breathe easier, live better with AirDoctor! Head to airdoctorpro.com, use promo code DRMEG, and you’ll receive UP TO $300 off air purifiers!                                      Clear hormonal & cystic acne with no side effects with Phyla Biotics. Enter code DRMEEKER at checkout and start your journey to healthier skin. Build a better you, one brick at a time with Field of Greens. No extracts, no lab-made stuff, just whole, organic fruits and vegetables. Visit fieldofgreens.com and use promo code DRMEG for free rush shipping and 15% off your first order. Start saving and investing for your future with Acorns—visit acorns.com/drmeg or download the app today! Wild Interest, where the magic happens when kids run the show. Find it wherever you get your podcasts. It’s wild! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Ep. 262 Exploring Adoption and Identity with Julie Ryan McGue

  In this episode of Parenting Great Kids with Dr. Meg Meeker, Dr. Meg is joined by Julie Ryan McGue—an award-winning writer, domestic adoptee, and identical twin—to dive deep into the complexities of adoption and identity. Julie opens up about her journey of growing up as an adoptee, the emotional impact of being part of a closed adoption, and her search for birth relatives to uncover critical medical history. Listeners will gain valuable insights as Julie discusses: The emotional and psychological challenges of being part of a closed adoption. The importance of open communication between adoptive parents and children. How adoptees can navigate their unique struggles with belonging and self-identity. The role of support groups in fostering community and understanding. Julie also shares her perspective on the generational and emotional struggles often tied to adoption, highlighting how openness and honesty can help adopted children cultivate a positive sense of self. This episode offers invaluable takeaways for adoptive parents, adoptees, and anyone eager to better understand the dynamics of adoption. Tune in now to hear Julie’s remarkable story and thoughtful advice! About Our Guest: Julie Ryan McGue Julie Ryan McGue is an American writer, domestic adoptee, and identical twin. Her award-winning memoir, Twice a Daughter: A Search for Identity, Family, and Belonging, was released in May 2021 and chronicles her journey to uncover her birth relatives. Through her writing, Julie explores the intricate themes of identity, family, and belonging, providing hope and inspiration for adoptees and adoptive families alike. Key Moments: 00:00 Introduction to Parenting Great Kids 00:26 Guest Introduction: Julie Ryan McHugh 01:03 Early Life and Adoption Experience 02:25 Navigating Identity and Belonging 04:09 Challenges of Closed Adoption 06:38 Support Groups and Shared Experiences 08:43 Complex Family Dynamics 16:31 Cultural Identity and Adoption 21:27 Personal Journey and Health Issues 34:05 Advice for Adoptive Parents 35:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Our Sponsors: Stay warm this season with Heat Holders®—from thermal socks to cozy hats, gloves, and layers, they’ve got you covered. Get 15% off at heatholders.com with code “DRMEG” and free shipping on orders over $25! Hungryroot is your personal shopper and nutritionist combined, making healthy eating easy and stress-free. Get 40% off your first box, plus enjoy a free item in every box for life! Visit Hungryroot.com/drmeg and use code DRMEG to claim this exclusive offer. Breathe easier, live better with AirDoctor! Head to airdoctorpro.com, use promo code DRMEG, and you’ll receive UP TO $300 off air purifiers!                                      Clear hormonal & cystic acne with no side effects with Phyla Biotics. Enter code DRMEEKER at checkout and start your journey to healthier skin. Build a better you, one brick at a time with Field of Greens. No extracts, no lab-made stuff, just whole, organic fruits and vegetables. Visit fieldofgreens.com and use promo code DRMEG for free rush shipping and 15% off your first order. Start saving and investing for your future with Acorns—visit acorns.com/drmeg or download the app today! Wild Interest, where the magic happens when kids run the show. Find it wherever you get your podcasts. It’s wild! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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