Parenting Great Kids with Dr. Meg Meeker

What happens when a parent, once strong and accomplished, finds themselves trapped in addiction? In this compelling episode of the Parenting Great Kids podcast, Dr. Meg Meeker speaks with Nick Padlo, founder of Sophros Recovery in Tampa. A former combat veteran and addiction survivor, Nick shares how his journey through military service and personal struggle led him to create a treatment center focused on holistic healing for individuals facing both substance use and co-occurring mental health challenges. Together, they explore: Why traditional recovery approaches sometimes fall short How mindfulness and comprehensive care can change lives What busy parents need to know about recognizing addiction How recovery is possible—even while navigating the pressures of parenting In this episode, you’ll learn: The emotional toll of addiction on parents and families The neuroscience behind substance use and mental health Why community, structure, and internal healing are key to lasting sobriety Practical steps for seeking help and beginning the recovery journey Nick Padlo is the founder of Sophros Recovery, a Tampa-based treatment center offering holistic care for substance abuse and co-occurring mental health disorders. A former U.S. Army combat veteran and successful executive, Nick’s personal recovery story shaped his mission to help others find sustainable healing. His work emphasizes mindfulness, evidence-based therapies, and a deep understanding of the unique needs of veterans and high-performing individuals seeking recovery. Sophros Recovery → https://sophrosrecoverytampa.com Join our new parenting community for free and explore coaching options with Dr. Meg Meeker → meekerparenting.com Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction: The Hidden Struggles of Parenting 00:40 – Meet Nick Padlo: From military leadership to recovery advocate 01:53 – Nick’s personal journey through trauma, addiction, and recovery 05:40 – Alcohol and emotional suppression: Understanding the trap 08:26 – The neuroscience of addiction and the mind-body connection 10:20 – Self-care as a foundation for recovery 14:07 – Identifying the signs of substance use in parents 15:35 – Overcoming stigma and asking for help 18:05 – Understanding the stages of change in recovery 18:32 – Motivation, mindfulness, and internal transformation 19:58 – Alcohol’s ripple effects on families and children 20:39 – Effective recovery tools: Meditation, therapy, and support 26:00 – The power of community and connection in healing 28:23 – Navigating daily life while maintaining sobriety 33:38 – Nick’s reflections and hope for parents in recovery 36:28 – Final thoughts from Dr. Meg and Nick Padlo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you feel like you're constantly running on empty trying to be the “perfect” parent? In this powerful episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with Israa Nasir, licensed psychotherapist and author of Toxic Productivity: Reclaim Your Time and Emotional Energy in a World That Always Demands More, to unpack how the pressure to always “do more” is impacting parents and their children. Israa shares how toxic productivity is driven by perfectionism, fear of inadequacy, and cultural expectations—and how it leads to chronic stress, emotional overwhelm, and strained family dynamics. Together, she and Dr. Meg explore practical ways to break the cycle of overfunctioning and reclaim peace and presence at home. In this episode, you’ll learn: What toxic productivity looks like in real-life parenting How fear and societal expectations fuel burnout The long-term emotional effects on both parents and kids How to set flexible boundaries and prioritize well-being Simple tools like micro-breaks, reprioritization, and self-worth reframing Empowering advice for single moms carrying it all About Israa Nasir Israa Nasir is a NYC-based psychotherapist, speaker, and mental health educator. She helps high-achieving individuals overcome perfectionism, burnout, and emotional dysregulation. Her new book Toxic Productivity is a compassionate guide to reclaiming mental space and joy in a hustle-obsessed culture. Episode Breakdown 00:00 – Introduction to Toxic Productivity00:50 – What is Toxic Productivity?02:05 – How It Impacts Parents and Children04:31 – Parenting Rooted in Fear08:40 – Breaking the Cycle of Overachieving12:07 – Reprioritizing and Setting Boundaries26:26 – Separating Self-Worth from Productivity32:16 – Advice for Single Moms Navigating Overload36:34 – Final Reflections and Empowering Takeaways Resources & Links Toxic Productivity by Israa Nasir → Toxic Productivity — Israa Nasir Learn more about Israa Nasir → Israa Nasir Expert parenting coaching with Dr. Meg Meeker → https://meekerparenting.com Sponsored by: Amazfit Active 2 – 10% off AI coaching at amazfit.com/DRMEG Hungryroot – 40% off + a free item in every box at hungryroot.com/drmeg (code DRMEG) Acorns – Start investing with spare change: acorns.com/drmeg Heat Holders® – 15% off cozy winter wear at heatholders.com (code DRMEG) Acorns Early – Teach your kids about money: acornsearly.com/drmeg WHO SMARTED? – A podcast that makes kids laugh while they learn. Search “WHO SMARTED?” wherever you get your podcasts. KiwiCo – $15 off your Summer Adventure Series at kiwico.com/DRMEG Børn Shoes – crafted for all-day support, top-quality style, and made to move with you. Get 15% off plus free shipping with code DRMEG at BornShoes.com – comfort never looked so good. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it mean to parent when the world isn't built for you? Jessica Slice, author of Unfit Parent: A Disabled Mother Challenges an Inaccessible World, joins Dr. Meg Meeker to share her powerful story of raising a child with a disability. Jessica discusses the myths around "perfect parenting," the societal barriers disabled parents face, and how true connection matters far more than physical perfection. In this episode, we discuss: Jessica’s journey to disability – and motherhood – and how she reclaimed her narrative. The unique challenges and joys of parenting with a disability. The critical role of community support and adaptive problem-solving. How unrealistic societal standards impact all parents, not just disabled ones. The importance of teaching children about disability with honesty and compassion. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 – Introduction: The unique challenges of parenting 00:21 – Meet Jessica Slice: Advocate, author, and mother 01:34 – Jessica's personal journey into disability and motherhood 03:12 – Parenting with a disability: Challenges and strengths 04:31 – Adopting and raising a newborn as a disabled parent 08:34 – How community and creative problem-solving make parenting possible 16:08 – Facing (and fighting) accessibility barriers in everyday life 24:04 – Why community support matters more than perfection 26:25 – Teaching kids empathy and understanding about disability 28:51 – Final reflections and words of encouragement Our Guest: Jessica Slice is a disabled author, speaker, and essayist whose upcoming memoir Unfit Parent has been shortlisted for the J. Anthony Lukas Prize. She’s the co-author of several books, including Dateable and We Belong (with the late Judy Heumann), and her writing has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Glamour, and more. A sought-after podcast guest, Jessica holds degrees from Davidson College and Columbia University and lives in Toronto with her family.  Resources & Links:  Learn more about Jessica Slice’s book Unfit Parent → https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jessica-Slice/author/B0D96Q4KB5  Work with Dr. Meg Meeker → https://meekerparenting.com/ Our Sponsors Amazfit Active 2 – 10% off AI coaching at amazfit.com/DRMEG Hungryroot – 40% off + a free item in every box at hungryroot.com/drmeg (code DRMEG) Acorns – Start investing with spare change: acorns.com/drmeg Heat Holders® – 15% off cozy winter wear at heatholders.com (code DRMEG) Acorns Early – Teach your kids about money: acornsearly.com/drmeg WHO SMARTED? – A podcast that makes kids laugh while they learn. Search “WHO SMARTED?” wherever you get your podcasts. KiwiCo – $15 off your Summer Adventure Series at kiwico.com/DRMEG Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What’s the real key to college admissions success? It might not be what you think. In this empowering episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker is joined by Dr. Pamela Ellis, also known as The Education Doctor. With experience guiding over 30,000 families and helping students earn an average of $75,000 in scholarships, Dr. Ellis shares invaluable insights that every parent needs to hear.In this episode, you'll learn: Why finding the right college fit matters more than just getting into a "top" school. How to debunk common college admissions myths and focus on what truly works. The crucial role parents play—without micromanaging. Tips for empowering your teen to lead their own admissions journey with confidence. How gratitude practices can support emotional health during the stressful admissions process. Whether you're just beginning to think about college or already knee-deep in applications, this episode offers actionable strategies and deep wisdom to help you and your child navigate the college admissions process with purpose and peace of mind.Episode Breakdown:00:00 – Introduction: Why college admissions is stressful for families00:21 – Meet Dr. Pamela Ellis: The Education Doctor’s approach to college planning01:34 – Common myths about admissions and scholarships04:22 – How to find the “right college fit” for your teen11:13 – The role of parents: guiding without controlling17:19 – Helping teens take ownership of the process22:01 – Gratitude practices and their impact on students26:06 – When college isn’t the obvious next step28:21 – Building confidence through applications34:16 – Supportive parenting strategies that work38:55 – Final thoughts and next steps for familiesAbout Dr. Pamela EllisDr. Pamela Ellis, MBA, Ph.D., is the founder of Compass Education Strategies and author of What to Know Before They Go. Known nationally as The Education Doctor, she helps families navigate college admissions with a focus on holistic student success—academically, socially, financially, vocationally, and culturally.Resources & Links:Learn more about Dr. Pamela Ellis and her work → https://compasscollegeadvisory.com/ 👉 Book a coaching session with Dr. Meg Meeker → https://meekerparenting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What’s driving the surge in teen anxiety—and how can parents help kids take back control of their mental health?In this episode, Dr. Meg Meeker is joined by Dr. Jodi Aman, a seasoned psychotherapist, author, and educator with nearly 30 years of experience helping teens and families break free from the grip of anxiety. Together, they explore the real reasons behind today’s teen mental health crisis—from social media to dopamine addiction—and offer practical, compassionate solutions for parents.You’ll learn: Why smartphones, social isolation, and societal pressures are creating a perfect storm for anxiety How comparison culture fuels low self-worth and perfectionism What dopamine does to the developing brain—and why kids feel overwhelmed Why validating your child’s emotions matters more than “fixing” them How to help teens understand, manage, and even overcome anxiety When to seek professional help, and what to look for in a therapist Need expert help applying these strategies in your home? Book a private coaching session with Dr. Meg Meeker: https://meekerparenting.com/coaching/Episode Breakdown00:00 – Welcome and introduction to the teen anxiety crisis 00:27 – Meet Dr. Jodi Aman and her work with teens and parents 01:00 – What’s causing anxiety to skyrocket in Gen Z 04:45 – How social media and dopamine shape the anxious brain 10:59 – Parental roles: validation, support, and what not to do 15:55 – Helping teens understand and manage anxiety 22:09 – The hidden effects of isolation and cultural pressure 28:08 – Tools for families: The Compass Curriculum and more 30:51 – When to seek professional help and signs to watch for 37:53 – Final encouragement and takeaways for parentsAbout Dr. Jodi AmanDr. Jodi Aman is a licensed therapist, author, and creator of the COMPASS Curriculum, a mental wellness program for teens. With nearly 30 years of experience, she’s worked with families in over 14 countries, focusing on anxiety, trauma, and emotional resilience. A graduate of Columbia University and Simmons University (DSW), Jodi blends neuroscience, Narrative Therapy, and global insight to help Gen Z understand themselves, build confidence, and navigate the pressures of modern life.Resources & LinksExplore Dr. Jodi Aman’s work: https://jodiaman.com Learn about the Compass Curriculum: https://jodiaman.com/compassLoved this episode?Subscribe, leave a review, and share with a friend. Your support helps more parents discover tools to raise resilient, emotionally healthy kids.Our SponsorsDeepCozy – 15% off sinus relief at deepcozy.com (code DRMEG)Amazfit Active 2 – 10% off AI coaching at amazfit.com/DRMEGHungryroot – 40% off + a free item in every box at hungryroot.com/drmeg (code DRMEG)Acorns – Start investing with spare change: acorns.com/drmegHeat Holders® – 15% off cozy winter wear at heatholders.com (code DRMEG)Acorns Early – Teach your kids about money: acornsearly.com/drmegEquip Health – Virtual eating disorder support at equip.health.com/drmegWHO SMARTED? – A podcast that makes kids laugh while they learn. Search “WHO SMARTED?” wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this insightful discussion, Connor Boyack, founder of the Libertas Institute and author of the Tuttle Twins series, shares his expertise on fostering independence in young minds. He highlights the power of storytelling in explaining complex subjects like economics and liberty to kids. The conversation dives into the Children's Entrepreneur Market, a platform for children to gain real-world business experience. Parents are encouraged to embrace different educational paths and hands-on learning strategies to develop confident, curious, and capable future leaders.

Can allowing teens to drink at home teach them responsible alcohol use? Dr. Claudia Black, a leading expert in teen substance abuse and addiction, reveals why this approach may actually encourage drinking outside the home.In this episode, we discuss: Why parental supervision doesn’t prevent teen drinking – It often normalizes alcohol use. The real reasons teens drink – Peer pressure, social acceptance, and stress. How parents influence teen drinking habits – Your behaviors set the tone. Teen substance abuse warning signs – Recognizing underlying trauma, like bullying or anxiety. Effective strategies for prevention – Setting clear boundaries and healthy family rituals. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 – Introduction: The debate on responsible teen drinking 00:21 – Meet Dr. Claudia Black: Expert insights on addiction and family dynamics 01:15 – What really drives teenage drinking? 02:12 – Peer pressure vs. parental influence: Which matters more? 11:28 – The hidden traumas behind substance use (bullying, loss, anxiety) 19:43 – How to talk to your teen about alcohol 24:04 – Recognizing warning signs and taking action 31:40 – Prevention, boundaries, and positive family ritualsAbout Dr. Claudia BlackDr. Claudia Black, Ph.D., is a pioneering addiction specialist, author, and speaker known for her groundbreaking work on family systems and substance abuse. As the Clinical Architect of the Claudia Black Center for Young Adults and a Senior Fellow at The Meadows Treatment Center, she has dedicated decades to helping individuals and families heal from addiction and trauma.Resources & Links: Learn more about Dr. Claudia Black → https://bit.ly/3DSI33p  👉 Book a coaching session with Dr. Meg Meeker today → https://bit.ly/41A4pQb  Our SponsorsDeepCozy – 15% off sinus relief at deepcozy.com with code DRMEGAmazfit Active 2 – 10% off AI-driven coaching at amazfit.com/DRMEGHungryroot – 40% off + a free item in every box for life at hungryroot.com/drmeg (code DRMEG)Acorns – Start investing with just your spare change. Download the Acorns app or visit acorns.com/drmeg to get started.Heat Holders® – 15% off cozy winter gear at heatholders.com (code DRMEG)Acorns Early lets parents pay allowances automatically. Ready to help your kids learn the value of money? Head to acornsearly.com/drmeg or download the Acorns Early app to get started.Equip Health – Virtual eating disorder treatment at equip.health.com/drmegLoved this episode? Subscribe, share, and leave a review. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Struggling with your child's sleep? In this episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with sleep expert Dana Obleman, founder of the Sleep Sense Program, to tackle common sleep challenges in babies, toddlers, and teens. They discuss: Why children wake up at night and how to help them sleep independently The four-month sleep regression and how to navigate it Strategies to reduce nighttime wake-ups in nine-month-olds Tips for healthy sleep habits in preschoolers and teenagers The impact of screen time, blue light, and melatonin on sleep quality Why a consistent bedtime routine is crucial for kids of all ages If you're looking for practical sleep solutions for your child, this episode is packed with expert advice to help your family get better rest. 👉 For more expert parenting advice, visit megmeekermd.com.Episode Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome to Parenting Great Kids00:31 – Understanding Infant Sleep Challenges02:34 – Solving Common Sleep Issues in Babies08:04 – Nighttime Wake-Ups & Sleep Strategies for Older Babies16:03 – Screen Time & Sleep Hygiene for Preschoolers23:33 – Teen Sleep Struggles & How to Fix Them28:43 – Why Sleep Matters for All Ages34:31 – Final ThoughtsSubscribe for more expert parenting tips!About Our Guest: Dana OblemanDana Obleman is the founder of the Sleep Sense Program, a trusted resource that has helped over 100,000 families worldwide establish healthy sleep habits for their children. Since 2003, she has provided practical, compassionate solutions through her step-by-step methods, empowering parents to teach independent sleep skills with confidence. A sought-after speaker and author, Dana is passionate about helping families navigate sleep challenges at every stage, from infant sleep regressions to teen sleep struggles.Our SponsorsDeepCozy – 15% off sinus relief at deepcozy.com with code DRMEGAmazfit Active 2 – 10% off AI-driven coaching at amazfit.com/DRMEGHungryroot – 40% off + a free item in every box for life at hungryroot.com/drmeg (code DRMEG)Acorns – Start investing with just your spare change. Download the Acorns app or visit acorns.com/drmeg to get started.Heat Holders® – 15% off cozy winter gear at heatholders.com (code DRMEG)Acorns Early lets parents pay allowances automatically. Ready to help your kids learn the value of money? Head to acornsearly.com/drmeg or download the Acorns Early app to get started.Equip Health – Virtual eating disorder treatment at equip.health.com/drmeg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with 15-year-old Elle Liemandt, the creator of Ask Elle, an AI-powered dating coach app designed for teens. They dive into the challenges of modern teen dating, exploring how social media platforms like Snapchat influence relationships and shape teen interactions. Elle shares insights on how her app helps teens rebuild essential social skills, handle rejection with confidence, and develop healthier dating habits.Dr. Meeker and Elle also discuss the crucial role parents play in guiding their teens through today’s evolving dating landscape. They highlight key strategies for fostering open parent-teen communication and staying informed about social media’s impact on relationships.This episode is essential listening for parents, educators, and anyone looking to understand the new rules of teen dating in the digital age.About Our GuestElle Liemandt is a driven 15-year-old high school student passionate about using technology and education to create positive change. As the creator of AI-powered platforms Datebot and Ask Elle (iOS), she helps teens navigate the complexities of dating and relationships with confidence and insight.Topics Covered in This Episode:✅ The reality of teen dating today✅ How Snapchat and other social platforms shape teen relationships✅ The biggest social pressures teens face in dating✅ Why rejection is a major issue for boys—and how to help✅ How the Ask Elle app supports teens in building confidence✅ The importance of parent-teen communication in dating discussions📌 Episode Timestamps:📌 00:00 – Introduction to the Episode📌 00:35 – Meet Elle Liemandt: Teen Dating Trailblazer📌 01:49 – The Reality of Teen Dating Today📌 02:41 – Snapchat and Teen Dating Dynamics📌 03:53 – The Impact of Social Media on Teen Relationships📌 06:17 – Elle's Viral TikTok and Teen Dating Trends📌 10:10 – Addressing Boys' Fear of Rejection📌 11:17 – How Ask Elle App Helps Teens Navigate Dating📌 17:21 – Encouraging Parent-Teen Communication📌 23:20 – The Future of Ask Elle and Social Media's Role📌 27:53 – Conclusion and Final ThoughtsOur Sponsors🌿 DeepCozy – 15% off sinus relief at deepcozy.com with code DRMEG⌚ Amazfit Active 2 – 10% off AI-driven coaching at amazfit.com/DRMEG🥗 Hungryroot – 40% off + a free item in every box for life at hungryroot.com/drmeg (code DRMEG)💰 Acorns – Start investing with just your spare change. Download the Acorns app or visit acorns.com/drmeg to get started.❄️ Heat Holders® – 15% off cozy winter gear at heatholders.com (code DRMEG)🏥 Equip Health – Virtual eating disorder treatment at equip.health.com/drmeg👉 For more expert parenting advice, visit megmeekermd.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with Joe Hashey to discuss balancing career ambitions with a thriving family life.Joe, a former educator turned fitness leader, shares his journey of recognizing work-family imbalance and the steps he took to correct it. After his father’s passing, he re-evaluated his family’s health and values, leading to The Strong Family Project—a structured approach to parenting that helps families:✅ Define core values ✅ Build consistent routines ✅ Strengthen family bonds through daily habitsDr. Meeker and Joe discuss the 7 Pillars of Personal Development, covering morning routines, family meetings, and strategies for co-parenting. They offer practical advice on child development, screen time boundaries, family traditions, and fostering resilience in kids.Episode Highlights: 📌 00:00 – Welcome & Intro to Joe Hashey 📌 01:42 – From Teaching to Fitness Industry 📌 02:34 – Struggles Balancing Work & Family 📌 03:29 – Pandemic’s Impact on Parenting 📌 06:12 – The Birth of The Strong Family Project 📌 07:26 – Defining Core Family Values 📌 10:08 – Parenting Challenges & Solutions 📌 16:09 – Managing Screen Time & Peer Influence 📌 20:50 – The 7 Pillars of The Strong Family Project 📌 26:30 – Co-Parenting Strategies 📌 29:28 – Personal Growth & Life Lessons 📌 32:23 – Final Thoughts & Key TakeawaysMeet Joe Hashey: Joe Hashey, M.Ed., is a former educator turned entrepreneur and family strategist. After earning his Master’s from Colgate University, he taught for eight years before founding a fitness company inspired by his father’s passing. Recognized as a Small Business Person of the Year in 2018, Joe later shifted focus to helping families build structure and strong relationships through The Strong Family Project.Our Sponsors: 🌿 DeepCozy – 15% off sinus relief at deepcozy.com with code DRMEG ⌚ Amazfit Active 2 – 10% off AI-driven coaching at amazfit.com/DRMEG 🥗 Hungryroot – 40% off + a free item in every box for life at hungryroot.com/drmeg (code DRMEG) 💰 Acorns – Start investing with just your spare change. Download the Acorns app or visit acorns.com/drmeg to get started. ❄️ Heat Holders® – 15% off cozy winter gear at heatholders.com (code DRMEG) 🏥 Equip Health – Virtual eating disorder treatment at equip.health.com/drmeg🔔 Subscribe & Follow for expert parenting strategies from Dr. Meg Meeker! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices