Empowering Childhood Autonomy

In this wide-ranging and unforgettable episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, host Ginny Yurich sits down with the bold and brilliant Dr. Tom Cowan—physician, author, and longtime advocate for common sense parenting. Drawing from his new book Common Sense Child Rearing, Dr. Cowan urges parents to truly listen to their children, resist blind conformity, and reclaim their role as their child’s fiercest protector. From the story of a misunderstood 7-year-old boy to hard-hitting critiques of the education and medical systems, Cowan’s message is as emotionally gripping as it is mind-expanding.

Together, Ginny and Dr. Cowan explore controversial but vital topics—vaccines, ultrasounds, cancer screenings, the current education system, and the radical idea that children are often right about what they need. With wisdom from Waldorf schools, Nourishing Traditions, and Ivan Illich, this conversation will challenge what you think you know about raising healthy, resilient kids in today’s world. You may not agree with everything, but you’ll leave this episode thinking more critically, feeling more empowered, and most importantly—more committed to being on your child’s side, no matter what.

🔗 Featured Book – Common Sense Child Rearing

🔗 Dr. Cowan’s Books: https://www.drcowansgarden.com/collections/books

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