Healthy Parenting Handbook with Katie Kimball

If having a strong family and raising kids who know how to serve others is important - or necessary - to you, my guest today will inspire, encourage, and challenge you to reach those goals!He prefers the word "invite" over "challenge," so I'm curious to hear what you think! :)I was beyond honored to sit down with Fr. Leo Patalinghug, "the cooking priest," to talk about family dinners, sharing responsibilities in the home, building memories around food, and how he's serving many communities at once with his new food truck project.You'll hear:Why being a priest and a chef are basically the same callingFr. Leo's strong thoughts about family dinners and a strict boundary he encourages parents to set about dinner conversationThe science behind the necessity of gathering together around foodWhat Fr. Leo says to adults who don't know how to cook and the impersonal tragedy of processed/delivered foodA priest's prescription for date nights to keep the marriage strong (and be a good example for the children)The Plating Grace and Grub food truck and how many communities and needs it serves (plus, YUM, I'm drooling over the menu!)Some pointed words about media consumption, how we digest the words we're told, and what we really need a revival of in AmericaFr. Leo's family experience with food saving relationshipsThere's a reason Fr. Leo is an internationally renowned speaker and a TV host—he's so great to listen to and has a LOT to say. Take notes!I'm also so jazzed that he is quoted in my upcoming book on picky eating, coming in fall 2026!Resources We Mention for Building Strong FamiliesFather Leo's book Saving the FamilyFamily dinner rituals to promote mental and physical healthThe importance of family dinners10 ways to make veggies more appealing to kidsMore about connected parenting with Jennifer KolariTo support Father Leo's food truck ministry, head over hereCheck out his podcast and booksFollow Father Leo on Instagram and FacebookCheck out the cookbook FOR kids, BY kids at kidscookrealfood.com/chefjr.  Kitchen Stewardship Kids Cook Real Food follow Katie on Instagram or Facebook Subscribe to the newsletter to get weekly updates YouTube shorts channel for HPH Find the Healthy Parenting Handbook at kidscookrealfood.com/podcast Affiliate links used here. Thanks for supporting the Healthy Parenting Handbook!

We need to connect with our family members to help them learn and grow beyond meltdowns, and Dr. Bryson will help us do that in the most effective, brain-based way.There is a reason for the meltdowns, and she’ll help us find the root cause today!Strap on your science geek hat and get ready for a class in neuroscience for parents 101. I could listen to Tina teach all day, and I hope you can grab a piece of paper and take notes to help your own brain retain all this info. But even if you can’t, listen and try out some strategies with your own family – practice makes progress!!Tina’s books are amazing, and after you listen I know you’ll want to get some from your local library or bookstore. If you prefer Amazon, here are some links to The Whole-Brain Child, No-Drama Discipline, Bottom Line for Baby, The Power of Showing Up, and her newest book, The Way of Play: Using Little Moments of Big Connection to Raise Calm and Confident Kids.They include “refrigerator sheets” with a quick summary of key points for the whole book for folks like me who love to have something visible in my way as a reminder. We’re working on having those for the Healthy Parenting Handbook! Make sure you’re on our email list so you can get them for all the episodes soon. More Resources for Calming Tantrums in Your FamilyMore on the different parts of your brain and how they work togetherIs sensory processing disorder behind your child’s behavior challenges?5 reasons why toddlers have tantrumsMaster your stress with your breathDr. Tina Bryson’s website for moreConnect with Dr. Bryson on social media: Facebook, Instagram, XCheck out the cookbook FOR kids, BY kids at kidscookrealfood.com/chefjr.  Kitchen Stewardship Kids Cook Real Food follow Katie on Instagram or Facebook Subscribe to the newsletter to get weekly updates YouTube shorts channel for HPH Find the Healthy Parenting Handbook at kidscookrealfood.com/podcast Affiliate links used here. Thanks for supporting the Healthy Parenting Handbook!

My youngest got his first concussion at age 3.After this interview, I’m wondering if another child of mine has some post-concussion symptoms that we never realized had to do with a knock on the head!This interview is for parents of contact sport athletes FOR SURE but also anyone who wants to strengthen their family’s brain health.What’s brain health? It’s the development of your kids’ brains, the avoidance of cognitive decline as we age (yes please!), and everyone’s mental health.Here’s a little peek at what you’ll learn:Why a brain after a concussion is a bit like a sprained ankleHow many patients are surprised that their daily symptoms end up being connected to an unresolved concussion in their past!What modern conventional medicine gets wrong about concussions (spoiler: not much right at all!)The worst possible thing to do (and the second worst) for concussion recoveryA shocking fact about the CT scan you’ll get in the ER after a concussionConnections from brain health to mental healthA GOLDEN 30-second process you need to put your kids through at the beginning of every contact sport season (I’m going to start telling everyone this!)How to make any exercise (and even cooking with kids!) into a brain exerciseYour science geek brain and your practical brain will be so happy to learn all this information! With kids, it feels like it’s not a matter of IF your family will experience a concussion, but WHEN. Be ready with knowledge, and start to build your family’s brain health NOW, because like Dr. Zimmerman says: “The stronger you go into something, the better you’ll be coming out of it.”Resources We Mention for Building Strong, Healthy BrainsGet Dr. Spencer’s book Brain Reset at Amazon or Bookshop.orgVisit his website hereConcussions are on the rise, but it’s not why you thinkThe Best Way to Heal from a Concussion: How to Start Recovery Immediately After a Bump on the Head!One great supplement for brain health is Rosita Extra Virgin Cod Liver Oil. Brain science can make you a better parent!Find Dr. Spencer online: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTubeCheck out the cookbook FOR kids, BY kids at kidscookrealfood.com/chefjr.  Kitchen Stewardship Kids Cook Real Food follow Katie on Instagram or Facebook Subscribe to the newsletter to get weekly updates YouTube shorts channel for HPH Find the Healthy Parenting Handbook at kidscookrealfood.com/podcast Affiliate links used here. Thanks for supporting the Healthy Parenting Handbook!

I always thought menopause was something “older” women dealt with. You know, once the kids are gone and you’ve got gray hair and bifocals.But then... I hit 40.And weird stuff started happening.Was it perimenopause? Hormones? Stress? Just a fluke? Honestly, I didn’t know. I wasn’t even sure how to know—because no one really talks about this stuff in detail. This week on the Healthy Parenting Handbook podcast, I got to sit down with Jenn Pike, a brilliant practitioner with a background in exercise science and a passion for helping women understand their bodies, hormones, and how to feel strong again—especially in our 40s and 50s. Here’s a sneak peek at what we covered:The real definition of perimenopauseWhy your workouts might stop “working” and how to adapt after 40Unexpected early signs of hormone shifts What kind of exercise actually helps your hormones... and what might be hurting themHow to start small and build sustainable health habits during this transitionWhy skipping breakfast is the worst idea for womenWhat to eat, when to eat, and how often to fuel your body the right wayIf you’re in your late 30s or 40s and you’ve been wondering, “What is happening to me?”... this is the conversation you didn’t know you needed.Resources We Mention for Perimenopause SymptomsCheck out Jenn's Synced fitness membership program! Get 10% off with code KATIE10.Hormone Health Is Not Just about FertilityWomen Metabolize and Build Strength Differently Than MenHealthy Sleep Routines for the Whole FamilySome favorite helps for sleep: Magnesium Lotion Shop lotion; Earthley Good Night LotionCheck out Jenn’s books: The Simplicity Project, The Simplicity Body, and The Simplicity Kitchen.Find Jenn at her website or on her podcast, The Simplicity Sessions.Follow on socials: Facebook, Instagram, YouTubeCheck out the cookbook FOR kids, BY kids at kidscookrealfood.com/chefjr.  Kitchen Stewardship Kids Cook Real Food follow Katie on Instagram or Facebook Subscribe to the newsletter to get weekly updates YouTube shorts channel for HPH Find the Healthy Parenting Handbook at kidscookrealfood.com/podcast Affiliate links used here. Thanks for supporting the Healthy Parenting Handbook!

I’ll be honest: I’ve never had a consistent bedtime routine.I teach kids to cook real food, I help families get healthier... and yet when it comes to sleep? Total kryptonite. That’s why I knew I needed to bring in a real expert—someone who doesn’t just say, “You should get more sleep,” but actually shows us how.Dr. Whitney Roban is a clinical psychologist turned sleep consultant who works with families, schools, and even corporations to teach the why and the how of better sleep. And friends, her tips are not only practical but wildly doable, even if your current sleep situation feels like a disaster.She breaks down:how to figure out your (and your child’s) ideal amount of sleepthe real reason your teen can’t fall asleep before 11 p.m.what you should (and shouldn’t) do right before bedthe surprisingly simple “test” to know how sleep deprived you arehow to rewire your habits without overhauling your entire lifewhat’s sabotaging your melatonin (hint: it’s probably in your hand right now)how sleep deprivation hurts more than just your moodand why it’s never too late to start respecting sleep in your householdThis conversation was such a conviction for me and maybe it will be for you, too.You’ll hear me admit my own struggles with sleep, the late-night screen time I know I shouldn’t do, and the tiny changes I’m working on. (I even share a little “mom guilt” about bedtime routines and my husband... can you relate?)So if you’ve been meaning to “get better sleep” but have no idea where to start - or you’re just tired of being tired - this episode is your permission slip to pause and reset.Let’s solve our sleep one baby step at a time!Resources We Mentioned for Healthy SleepDr. Whitney’s websiteDr. Whitey’s books that teach kids the importance of sleepInterview with Christine Hansen about sleep for parentsThe secret to healing sleep5 weird tools to improve your sleep8 strategies to improve sleep qualityBlue light glasses I loveFinding a non-toxic mattressFollow Dr. Roban on X, Facebook, Instagram Kitchen Stewardship Kids Cook Real Food follow Katie on Instagram or Facebook Subscribe to the newsletter to get weekly updates YouTube shorts channel for HPH Find the Healthy Parenting Handbook at kidscookrealfood.com/podcast Affiliate links used here. Thanks for supporting the Healthy Parenting Handbook!

Let’s be honest, teaching kids about money can feel intimidating.This episode is packed with practical strategies and empowering encouragement.Here’s what you’ll take away from our conversation:Why budgeting is essential for teensHow emotional language can help kids process money stressOne simple phrase that opens the door to healthier financial habitsHow to model smart financial decisions—even when you make mistakesA free tool that empowers teens to track their money in just one hourYou don’t have to be a financial whiz, you just need to be willing to have the conversation.Resources We Mentioned for Money Management for TeensOne Hour Budget for Teens (Use code LIFESKILLS for $19!)10 side hustles for teens freebie15 financial skills for teens freebieGet Crystal's booksThe Time-Saving Mom: Azon, BookshopLove-Centered Parenting: Azon, BookshopMoney-Making Mom: Azon, BookshopSay Goodbye to Survival Mode: AzonThe Money Saving Mom's Budget: Azon, Bookshop21 Days to a More Disciplined Life: AzonCheck out the cookbook FOR kids, BY kids at kidscookrealfood.com/chefjr.  Kitchen Stewardship Kids Cook Real Food follow Katie on Instagram or Facebook Subscribe to the newsletter to get weekly updates YouTube shorts channel for HPH Find the Healthy Parenting Handbook at kidscookrealfood.com/podcast Affiliate links used here. Thanks for supporting the Healthy Parenting Handbook!

"I don't like fish."How many of us have a child, spouse, or self who says that?My guest today says that's off course - no one can accurately say they "don't like" "fish" - and I love her reasons!Whether you love fish or haven't learned to love it yet, this non-fishy interview all about the fish of the sea is a winner:Have you ever gotten to know your fisherman? Watch my surprise as I do for the first time...How to find the best fish for the biggest health benefitsWhy some fish are harder to cook well (and deliciously) than othersWhat to look for in a store or restaurant to make sure you're getting sustainable, healthy fishWhy ocean stewardship is of primary importance for fishermen and their familiesFind well-fished seafood with all the omega-3s at Sena Sea Seafood!Resources We Mention for Sourcing Sustainable FishGet Sena Sea Seafood on their websiteFind the best natural mineral sunscreen that's safe for the oceans!Follow Sena on Instagram When you sign up for Sena's email list, you'll get a free cookbook to expand your fish repertoire Check out the cookbook FOR kids, BY kids at kidscookrealfood.com/chefjr.  Kitchen Stewardship Kids Cook Real Food follow Katie on Instagram or Facebook Subscribe to the newsletter to get weekly updates YouTube shorts channel for HPH Find the Healthy Parenting Handbook at kidscookrealfood.com/podcast Affiliate links used here. Thanks for supporting the Healthy Parenting Handbook!

My oldest struggled with eczema from time to time, but when our house presented us with a toxic mold issue, he really flared up.It was the worst we’d ever seen, and after 3 weeks of completely ditching gluten, dairy, and sugar (by his own choice and motivation), nothing had changed. It was heartbreaking!I can only imagine how tough it is for parents of toddlers with eczema who can’t even communicate their pain.My guest today digs DEEP into eczema and all the potential root causes, the importance of testing, and the wide variety of pathways to healing individual children might need.She says a lot of parents do research and get really really close to the answer their kids needs…and then get stuck. That’s where she comes in.Here is just a tiny preview of what we’ll touch on:“Parasites overgrow in the body when there is a toxic burden!”“Bowel movements are the primary elimination pathway in the body.”“If kids are not having a bowel movement daily, figure out WHY that’s happening!”“Mold impacts the way the brain functions and communicates with the GI tract.”“Elimination depends on pooping, liver function, kidney function.”“If kids have skin issues, it’s typically a sign that there’s a liver stagnation issue - like the body is pulling the emergency brake.”If your little darlings are struggling with eczema or other skin issues, or you know someone who needs this podcast, don’t hesitate to hit play or pass it on!Resources We Mentioned for Eczema in KidsDeidre's book: Toxic Infertility: Detoxification Solutions to Improve Natural Fertility: Amazon, BookshopGet to the root of eczemaHealing inflammation from the inside outFind Deidre onlineWork with her for pediatric GI healing and skin healthFollow her on social media: Instagram, Facebook, (her other Instagram focusing on infertility)Check out the cookbook FOR kids, BY kids at kidscookrealfood.com/chefjr.  Kitchen Stewardship Kids Cook Real Food follow Katie on Instagram or Facebook Subscribe to the newsletter to get weekly updates YouTube shorts channel for HPH Find the Healthy Parenting Handbook at kidscookrealfood.com/podcast Affiliate links used here. Thanks for supporting the Healthy Parenting Handbook!

ADHD is not just an attention disorder; it's an executive functioning disorder.The myths abound!If you’ve always thought of kids with ADHD as those who struggle in school, think again.If you expect ADHD kids to have trouble focusing, wrong again.If you think kids with ADHD are destined to struggle more throughout life, Mike McLeod is here to tell you that ADHD is not a limitation, just a different path.The ADHD brain is truly different from neurotypical brains, although some truths apply to both groups, like:Children learn best through play and unstructured time.Outdoor play is vital for developing real-world skills.Boredom is essential for self-regulation and creativity.Cooking teaches kids self-sufficiency and life skills.Unstructured time is crucial for children's development.Parents should set high expectations for their children.Removing screens can reveal hidden talents in kids.Parents need to place more importance on chores & balancing structure and freedom.Parents of kids with or without ADHD need the information in this episode, but especially stuff like this:Screen time can exacerbate ADHD symptoms, but it does not cause ADHD.The ADHD brain struggles with self-regulation and motivation for NON-preferred tasks.Varied experiences are vital for skill development.Executive functions are crucial for success in life.I love Mike’s energy and expertise, like sitting at the feet of a master. What an honor to work with him both for this podcast and as a #LifeSkillsNow Season 4 camp leader! Resources We Mentioned for ADHD MythsInterviews I've done on ADHD: Does ADHD always mean medication? and Practical Solutions for ADHDCheck out four free life skills workshops now!Find Mike online: GrowNOW ADHDInstagram, FacebookCheck out the cookbook FOR kids, BY kids at kidscookrealfood.com/chefjr.  Kitchen Stewardship Kids Cook Real Food follow Katie on Instagram or Facebook Subscribe to the newsletter to get weekly updates YouTube shorts channel for HPH Find the Healthy Parenting Handbook at kidscookrealfood.com/podcast Affiliate links used here. Thanks for supporting the Healthy Parenting Handbook!

Emily’s stories are going to get your head nodding in empathy and connection - we’ve all been there with the kid who just will NOT put their shoes on, brush their teeth, or do as we ask!If you’ve ever felt the guilt after exploding all over your kids, those little beings you LOVE so much, you need this interview.We talk all about emotional regulation, how moms need to work on their own big emotions so that they can better help their kids, and how to raise emotionally healthy families. Today, we touch on:Motherhood is no joke! It’s way harder than it looks from the outside, especially when your own emotions get involved.In the heat of a meltdown, kids aren’t being “bad,” they’re stuck in their emotional brain, not their thinking brain.There’s no perfect time to work on emotional growth. Start where you are.Getting support isn’t weakness, it’s wisdom.Kids learn emotional regulation by watching us. Imperfect parenting still teaches powerful lessons when we’re honest and intentional.Raising critical thinkers and independent problem-solvers starts with slowing down, naming emotions, and solving problems with our kids.Resources We Mention for Emotional RegulationThe Whole-Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne BrysonThe kitchen is a good place to build social emotional skillsThe Explosive Child by Ross GreenFind Emily onlineFollow her on social media: Instagram, FacebookListen to her podcastEmily's free masterclass on Emotional Regulation for Neurodivergent KidsGet four free life skills classes now!Check out the cookbook FOR kids, BY kids at kidscookrealfood.com/chefjr.  Kitchen Stewardship Kids Cook Real Food follow Katie on Instagram or Facebook Subscribe to the newsletter to get weekly updates YouTube shorts channel for HPH Find the Healthy Parenting Handbook at kidscookrealfood.com/podcast Affiliate links used here. Thanks for supporting the Healthy Parenting Handbook!