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.

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.

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 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 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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.