Parenting Great Kids with Dr. Meg Meeker

Are your parenting methods helping or hindering your child’s development?In this episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker, pediatrician and bestselling author, breaks down the four key parenting styles—authoritative, authoritarian, permissive, and neglectful—and how each one affects your child’s emotional and behavioral growth.You’ll learn how to identify your default parenting style, what might be influencing it (including your own upbringing), and how to shift toward a more effective and loving approach. Dr. Meeker also tackles common parenting challenges like setting boundaries, dealing with whining, and balancing warmth with discipline.Whether you’re a first-time parent or raising teens, this episode offers a practical roadmap for becoming a more intentional, confident parent.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:The psychology behind different parenting stylesWhy authoritative parenting leads to emotionally resilient, responsible kidsThe risks of authoritarian, permissive, and neglectful stylesHow your own childhood shapes your parentingHow to set clear boundaries without being harshReal-life scenarios + listener Q&A with Dr. MeekerThe unique role of fathers in shaping secure children👉 Join the Ask Dr. Meg Parenting PortalConnect with like-minded parents on a mission to raise spiritually strong, emotionally healthy kids.Timestamps for Easy Navigation:00:00 – Introduction: Why Parenting Style Matters00:37 – Discovering Your Default Parenting Approach03:34 – The Four Parenting Styles Defined04:32 – What Makes Authoritative Parenting So Effective07:57 – The Downside of Authoritarian Parenting10:32 – The Dangers of Permissive Parenting13:01 – Understanding Neglectful Parenting14:18 – Helicopter Parenting: Where It Fits14:57 – How Your Upbringing Shapes Your Parenting18:54 – Time to Reflect: What’s Working, What’s Not19:52 – Comparing Authoritarian vs. Authoritative26:02 – What Permissive Parenting Looks Like26:42 – Teaching Kids Self-Discipline27:15 – Authoritative vs. Permissive: The Line Between27:55 – Risks of Uninvolved Parenting29:38 – Helping Your Child Build Confidence30:01 – Pitfalls of Authoritarian Homes30:43 – Blending Styles and Evolving as a Parent34:12 – What is “Parenting Preload”?36:24 – Strategies for Whining and Setting Boundaries45:31 – Why Fathers Are Critical to Child Development47:22 – Join the Parenting Great Kids CommunitySponsors: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.

Can faith and perseverance really transform a life from survival to success?In this inspiring episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker welcomes Angela “Stikks” Adams—a single mom turned successful model and founder of the Christian Models Association. Angela opens up about her incredible story of overcoming hardship, staying grounded in her Christian faith, and choosing purpose over popularity.From battling poverty to breaking into the modeling industry without compromising her values, Angela shares the real-life lessons and God-centered strategies that helped her rise above. She also explains how parents can pass on "God-confidence" instead of self-confidence to help their children walk in truth and strength.If you're a single mom, a parent trying to raise faith-filled kids, or someone searching for hope during hard times, this episode will speak directly to your heart.👉 Join the Ask Dr. Meg Parenting Portal Connect with like-minded parents on a mission to raise spiritually strong, emotionally healthy kids.In This Episode:The raw challenges of single motherhood and starting over with nothingHow faith can reshape your identity and futureThe hidden dangers of seeking validation from the worldBuilding "God-confidence" in your childrenCreating a God-honoring career in a values-challenging industryPractical encouragement for moms navigating loneliness, exhaustion, and uncertaintyWhy purpose and obedience matter more than popularity and applauseAbout Angela "Stikks" AdamsAngela is a professional model, speaker, and founder of the Christian Models Association, an organization dedicated to helping aspiring models walk in their faith while pursuing careers in fashion and entertainment. Her passion is to guide others, especially single mothers, into their God-given potential through authenticity, discipline, and spiritual alignment.Episode Highlights:00:00 – Struggling to find an apartment as a single mom 01:02 – Parenting in a world that pressures compromise 01:46 – Pursuing God-given dreams despite hardships 02:44 – Single motherhood and trusting God through adversity 10:30 – Moving across the country to rebuild a life 15:55 – Finding work and divine encouragement 17:36 – The importance of real, face-to-face interactions 17:48 – Entering the modeling world with strong values 18:03 – Avoiding spiritual and professional traps 18:50 – Staying true to God’s purpose 21:42 – Teaching children faith-based confidence 22:47 – Launching the Christian Models Association 24:05 – Why "God-confidence" outlasts self-confidence 29:28 – Powerful encouragement for single mothers 34:30 – What it means to model with purposeSponsors: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.

Parenting strong-willed kids can be exhausting—but it doesn’t have to be a constant battle. In this episode, Dr. Meg is joined by Kirk Martin, founder of Celebrate Calm and host of the Calm Parenting Podcast, to talk about how to handle big emotions—starting with your own. From defusing power struggles to managing anxiety and sibling fights, Kirk shares practical, often humorous strategies to help you stay calm, confident, and connected to your kids.You Will Learn:Why your calm is more important than your child’s behaviorHow to avoid power struggles with strong-willed kidsSimple ways to lower anxiety in your homeThe difference between teaching and controllingCreative solutions for homework, sibling fights, and moreHow humor and self-reflection can shift the parenting dynamicJoin the PGK Community!Looking for more support? Join our Parenting Great Kids community  where you'll find exclusive content from Dr. Meg, parenting resources, expert interviews, and a community of parents just like you. 👉 Learn more & sign up hereAbout Our Guest:Kirk Martin is the founder of Celebrate Calm, a behavior training resource that has helped over 500,000 parents and teachers worldwide. He is also the host of the Calm Parenting Podcast. Known for his practical strategies and relatable humor, Kirk teaches families how to stop yelling, defuse defiance, and build stronger connections with their kids. Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction: Parenting strong-willed kids00:27 – Meet Kirk Martin01:37 – Why parental self-control matters most02:50 – Strategies for managing defiance06:42 – Creative homework solutions09:48 – Handling sibling fights without yelling14:16 – Reducing parental stress17:47 – From controlling to teaching18:52 – Dealing with tween attitude21:00 – Understanding and easing anxiety in kids27:35 – How humor builds connection                                                    32:02 – Encouraging honest communication34:32 – Final thoughts and resourcesOur Sponsors:Hungryroot – 40% off plus a free item in every box with code DRMEGFam Gabs – Spark real conversations with your kids. Use code DRMEGPOD for 10% offK12-powered schools – Tuition-free, accredited online public education for K–12Thrive Causemetics – Clean, vegan beauty that gives back. Get 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.

Can today’s teens still achieve financial freedom in a world of soaring inflation, student debt, and housing costs? In this episode, Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with Rachel Rodgers, entrepreneur and author of Future Millionaires, to uncover actionable strategies for helping young people become financially independent.From building marketable skills to encouraging entrepreneurship and resilience, Rachel shares powerful tools that empower teens to take control of their financial futures.In this episode, we discuss:Why the traditional American Dream is harder to reach—and what to do about itHow to help your child recognize their natural skills and turn them into incomeThe “Million Dollar Decisions” formula and why it mattersWhy teaching kids to embrace failure can lead to lasting successSmart, age-appropriate ways to introduce kids to investing and money management🎉 Join the Parenting Great Kids Community, where you'll find support from like-minded parents who are committed to raising emotionally healthy, spiritually strong, and digitally safe kids.About Rachel RodgersRachel Rodgers is a business coach, lawyer, and bestselling author of We Should All Be Millionaires. Her latest book, Future Millionaires, offers a blueprint for teaching teens how to build wealth, develop decision-making skills, and create lasting independence. She’s the founder of Hello Seven, a company that helps women and people of color grow their businesses and transform their financial futures.Our Sponsors:Hungryroot – 40% off plus a free item in every box with code DRMEGFam Gabs – Spark real conversations with your kids. Use code DRMEGPOD for 10% offK12-powered schools – Tuition-free, accredited online public education for K–12Thrive Causemetics – Clean, vegan beauty that gives back. Get 10% off your first orderEpisode Breakdown:  00:00 Introduction: Financial Challenges for Young Adults00:56 The American Dream and Its Challenges01:37 Strategies for Financial Independence03:52 The Importance of Marketable Skills05:35 Encouraging Entrepreneurship in Teens10:21 Parental Guidance and Support14:36 Teaching Kids About Money18:21 Motivating Kids with Incentives19:28 Million Dollar Decisions Formula21:10 Teaching Kids Decision-Making Skills24:02 Encouraging Kids to Embrace Failure29:08 Financial Education for Kids35:11 Conclusion and ResourcesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Do your kids shut down when you try to talk? In this episode, Dr. Meg Meeker is joined by licensed therapist Beliza Perez, the creator of FAM Gabs, for a sponsored conversation on how to build emotional closeness through simple, intentional questions.You’ll learn why some kids stop sharing, how to avoid parent-child communication traps, and what to do instead. Beliza shares therapy-based tools—including non-verbal techniques and calming rituals—that help parents raise emotionally safe and connected kids.In This Episode:Conversation hacks that unlock emotional connectionThe #1 reason kids stop opening up—and how to reverse itWhy "quality time" doesn't have to mean more timeHow to create low-pressure, trust-building momentsTools like finger mazes and prompt cards that actually workThis episode includes a sponsored segment in collaboration with FAM Gabs.🎉 Join the Parenting Great Kids Community, where you'll find support from like-minded parents who are committed to raising emotionally healthy, spiritually strong, and digitally safe kids.Join today at meekerparenting.com/community⏱️ Episode Breakdown:00:00 – Welcome to Parenting Great Kids00:31 – What kids are stressed about (but not saying)01:10 – Meet Beliza Perez, therapist and creator of FAM Gabs01:35 – How FAM Gabs helps spark real conversations02:56 – Top conversation starters that work03:51 – Parental reactions: Hesitation and surprise05:24 – Creating safety through open-ended questions07:01 – The therapy roots of FAM Gabs09:10 – Using tools like FAM Gabs in real-life families15:06 – Common issues in child and teen therapy16:32 – Navigating personality differences in families16:45 – Why communication is key to healing18:26 – The creative journey behind the questions18:58 – How to ask questions that build trust20:37 – What nonverbal cues reveal about your child22:27 – Why short, mindful moments matter more24:28 – What’s next for FAM Gabs27:33 – Using finger mazes for anxiety relief28:57 – Where to get FAM Gabs29:26 – Final takeaways from Dr. Meg and BelizaBeliza Perez is a licensed therapist and the founder of FAM Gabs, a family conversation card deck that empowers parents to build stronger emotional bonds with their kids. Her clinical work and creative tools center on healing through connection.Resources & Links:Get your own FAM Gabs → https://www.famgabs.com Work with Dr. Meg → https://meekerparenting.comOur SponsorsHungryroot – 40% off plus a free item in every box at hungryroot.com/drmeg with code DRMEGFam Gabs – Spark real conversations with your kids using this therapist-designed card deck. Search Fam Gabs on Amazon and use code DRMEGPOD for 10% offK12-powered schools – Tuition-free, accredited online public education for K–12 at K12.com/DRMEGThrive Causemetics – Clean, vegan beauty that gives back. Get 10% off your first order at ThriveCausemetics.com/DRMEGSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When 12-year-old Harrison Haynes met a 19-year-old “mentor” in an online game, it felt like a friendship—until it turned into manipulation and abuse.In this powerful episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker talks with Harrison about his firsthand experience with online grooming, how his mental health struggles played a role, and the steps his parents took to intervene and help him heal. Now, Harrison is turning his pain into purpose—advocating for digital safety and youth protection.In this episode, you’ll learn:How online grooming begins and escalatesThe emotional vulnerabilities predators targetHow Harrison’s parents recognized the signs and took actionWhat legal and emotional challenges followedDigital safety tips every parent needs today🎉Join the Parenting Great Kids Community, where you'll find support from like-minded parents who are committed to raising emotionally healthy, spiritually strong, and digitally safe kids. Join today at meekerparenting.com/communityEpisode Breakdown00:00 – Introduction to Harrison’s Story00:35 – Early signs of emotional struggles01:25 – The online “friendship” begins03:06 – How grooming unfolded05:25 – Mental health and manipulation08:49 – The turning point12:34 – Breaking free and getting help16:37 – Parental involvement and intervention18:54 – Reporting and law enforcement18:59 – Family reactions and emotions19:32 – Reflecting on warning signs20:53 – Legal frustrations and realities22:02 – Coping, therapy, and healing23:44 – Advice for today’s digital parents26:42 – Harrison’s advocacy and youth empowerment29:16 – Living life without a smartphone31:20 – 5 practical tech safety strategies35:04 – Community support and personal growthAbout Harrison HaynesHarrison Hayes was just 12 years old when he was groomed by a stranger he met through online gaming. Today, he’s a leading voice in digital safety advocacy—raising awareness about the hidden dangers of social media, gaming, and texting. Through his work with survivor-led organizations like The Wired Human Youth Coalition and his independent project, Digitally Intentional, Harrison empowers families and youth to think critically and live intentionally in the digital age.He believes online safety isn’t just about restriction—it’s about awareness, intentionality, and action.👉 Learn more about Harrison’s work at digitallyintentional.orgOur SponsorsHungryroot – 40% off plus a free item in every box at hungryroot.com/drmeg with code DRMEGRula – Licensed therapy for as little as $15 per session with insurance. Visit rula.com/drmeg to get startedK12-powered schools – Tuition-free, accredited online public education for K–12 at K12.com/DRMEGFam Gabs – Spark real conversations with your kids using this therapist-designed card deck. Search Fam Gabs on Amazon and use code DRMEGPOD for 10% offThrive Causemetics – Clean, vegan beauty that gives back. Get 10% off your first order at ThriveCausemetics.com/DRMEGSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

July has been all about parenting in the digital age, and today we take a hard look at the dark side of school devices, emojis, and disappearing apps—with Titania Jordan, Chief Parenting Officer at Bark Technologies and a nationally recognized expert in online safety.In this episode, Dr. Meg Meeker dives into the hidden vulnerabilities that come with your child’s screen time—from unfiltered school-issued devices to the coded emoji language kids use to hide online behavior.This conversation goes beyond app limits—it's about understanding how tech is shaping your child’s emotional, social, and mental world, and how to stay one step ahead as a parent.📣Join the Parenting Great Kids CommunityWant real support from parents who get it? Inside our private community, you’ll find expert advice, honest conversations, and practical tools to help you grow as a parent. Try it free—because great parenting shouldn’t happen alone.Episode Breakdown:00:00 – Introduction: Digital parenting in today’s tech-driven world 00:12 – The dangers of Snapchat and social media 00:43 – Meet Titania Jordan: Chief Parenting Officer at Bark Technologies 01:42 – Tech overload after the holidays: How to reset your home 02:36 – How to set and stick to healthy screen time limits 05:05 – The darker side of social platforms: Predators, mental health, and more 09:39 – Titania’s personal experiences raising a digital native 11:44 – Why school-issued devices aren’t always safe 16:54 – The hidden meanings behind emojis and text codes 18:40 – How Bark Technologies helps families monitor and protect kids onlineAbout Titania JordanTitania Jordan is the Chief Parenting Officer at Bark Technologies and co-author of Parental Control: A Parent’s Guide to Keeping Kids Safe Online. As a nationally recognized tech safety expert, she’s been featured on CNN, TODAY, and Good Morning America, and works tirelessly to make digital spaces safer for kids and families.Resources & Links:Learn more about Bark Technologies: https://www.bark.usRead Parental Control by Titania Jordan: Parental Control | Titania JordanParenting coaching and resources from Dr. Meg Meeker: https://meekerparenting.comSponsored by:Hungryroot – 40% off plus a free item in every box at hungryroot.com/drmeg with code DRMEG Rula – Licensed therapy for as little as $15 per session with insurance. Visit rula.com/drmeg to get started K12-powered schools – Tuition-free, accredited online public education for K–12 at K12.com/DRMEG Fam Gabs – Spark real conversations with your kids using this therapist-designed card deck. Search Fam Gabs on Amazon and use code DRMEGPOD for 10% off Thrive Causemetics – Clean, vegan beauty that gives back. Get 10% off your first order at ThriveCausemetics.com/DRMEGSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Is your response to your teen’s emotions helping—or hurting—the situation? In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with Sheri Gazitt, teen life coach and founder of Teen Wise, to explore how parents unintentionally contribute to the emotional “drama” of adolescence—and what to do instead.Together, they unpack the real reasons teens act out, how parents can shift from reacting to responding, and why connection—not control—is the foundation of a healthy parent-teen relationship.In this episode, we cover:Are you reacting or responding? How to tell the differenceWhy emotional regulation starts with you, not your teenThe impact of post-COVID loneliness on teen behaviorFriendship drama and social conflict—why it’s normal and how to guide without rescuingHow to talk about social media without making your teen defensiveRebuilding trust after big blow-ups or boundary-crossingSmall daily practices to ease tension and build emotional safetyAbout Sheri GazittSheri Gazitt is a certified teen life coach, parenting educator, and founder of Teen Wise, an organization dedicated to empowering teens and supporting parents through the challenges of adolescence. With a background in psychology and counseling, Sheri specializes in emotional resilience, social confidence, and helping families navigate the often turbulent teen years with compassion and clarity. She also hosts workshops and speaks nationally on teen mental health, friendship dynamics, and parent-teen communication.Resources & Links:Learn more about Sheri Gazitt and Teen Wise → https://www.teenwiseseattle.comCoaching and parenting tools with Dr. Meg Meeker → https://meekerparenting.comJoin Dr. Meg’s community → https://linktr.ee/meekerparentingSponsored by:Hungryroot – 40% off + a free item in every box at hungryroot.com/drmeg (code DRMEG)Rula – Licensed therapy for as little as $15/session with insurance. Visit rula.com/drmeg to get startedK12-powered schools – Tuition-free, accredited online public education for K–12 at K12.com/DRMEGFam Gabs – Spark real conversations with your kids using this therapist-designed card deck. Search famgabs on Amazon and use code DRMEGPOD for 10% offThrive Causemetics – Clean, vegan beauty that gives back. Get 10% off your first order at ThriveCausemetics.com/DRMEGSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Meg Meeker welcomes Leslie Tyler, Director of Parent Education at Pinwheel and a champion for Children’s Digital Wellness, to unpack the risks and opportunities AI brings into our children’s lives. In this episode, we explore: Why children are early adopters of AI—and what parents need to know. The double-edged sword of AI as both a learning tool and a potential digital crutch. Key risks for kids using AI, from misinformation to emotional dependence. The role of parents in guiding safe AI usage and encouraging critical thinking. Pinwheel GPT and other tools designed with kids’ safety in mind. 🎉 Join Our New Parenting Community — FREE! Get access to webinars, mini-courses, exclusive content, a private forum to connect with other parents, and so much more. Start parenting with more confidence and real support: 👉⁠ ⁠meekerparenting.com⁠ Our Guest: Leslie Tyler is the Director of Parent Education at Pinwheel and a leading voice in children’s digital wellness. A mom of two teens and an expert in ed-tech and online safety, she collaborates with researchers at the Digital Wellness Lab at Boston Children’s Hospital to help parents raise tech-smart kids in a screen-heavy world. Sponsored by: Hungryroot – 40% off + a free item in every box at⁠ ⁠hungryroot.com/drmeg⁠⁠ (code DRMEG) KiwiCo – $15 off your Summer Adventure Series at⁠ ⁠kiwico.com/DRMEG⁠⁠ Summer Bridge Workbooks with IXL – Keep your kids learning and loving it this summer at⁠ ⁠summerbrains.com/DRMEG⁠⁠. Rula connects you with licensed therapists for as little as $15/session using insurance—visit rula.com/drmeg to get started. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Is your parenting stress spilling over into your child's life? You're not alone—and you're not powerless. In this episode, Mark Gerson, author of God Was Right, shares how biblical wisdom—paired with modern psychology—can radically shift the way we understand independence, fear, and success in parenting. We cover: The connection between parental stress and children's anxiety How ancient stories like Isaac’s birth and Joseph’s rise can transform your parenting style The myth of “stranger danger” and how it fuels fear-based parenting Why celebrating your child's independence can relieve your stress How trusting God’s plan reduces anxiety and promotes joyful parenting Mark helps us reframe stress, fear, and control through a lens of faith, confidence, and wisdom—so we can raise kids who thrive, not just survive. 🎉 Join Our New Parenting Community — FREE! Get access to webinars, mini-courses, exclusive content, a private forum to connect with other parents, and so much more. Start parenting with more confidence and real support: 👉 ⁠meekerparenting.com Our Guest: Mark Gerson is a graduate of Williams College and Yale Law School, and the author of several books on intellectual history, education, and biblical wisdom, including God Was Right: How Modern Social Science Proves the Torah Is True. His writing has appeared in The Wall Street Journal, The New Republic, Commentary, and USA Today, covering topics from Frank Sinatra to the story of Jonah. He lives in New York City with his wife, Rabbi Erica Gerson, and their four children. Sponsored by: Hungryroot – 40% off + a free item in every box at ⁠hungryroot.com/drmeg⁠ (code DRMEG) Acorns – Start investing with spare change: ⁠acorns.com/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. Summer Bridge Workbooks with IXL – Keep your kids learning and loving it this summer at ⁠summerbrains.com/DRMEG⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.