Clinical social worker, psychoanalyst and parent guidance expert Erica Komisar joins Dr. Meeker to discuss the alarming mental health crisis in America today. How have we come to the place where teenage boys walk into schools and shoot people? How did that evolve? What are the contributing factors to mental health issues in kids today? What are the responsibilities of parents, and what are some common mistakes that parents make regarding the mental health of their children? The physical, emotional, hormonal and societal challenges that kids are facing today can be overwhelming. But there are things that a parent can do to help ensure a secure foundation for their children. Erica Komisar explains how parents can help their children better cope with loss, rejection, and disappointment – feelings that often lead to anxiety, depression and other deeper mental health issues. Additionally, Dr. Meg and Erica discuss the all-important topic of how we as parents must not be blind to our own mental health, and how we must stop using our kids as a dumping ground for our own issues. This episode is a must-listen!Find out more about Erica Komisar and check out her books at www.ericakomisar.comFROM THE PRODUCERThanks for listening to Episode #172, Mental Health in Kids, and for helping Dr. Meg’s parenting revolution reach more than SEVEN MILLION downloads! Please subscribe, rate and leave a review for us on iTunes! Get Social with Dr. Meg on Facebook & Instagram @MegMeekerMD Check out Dr. Meg’s parenting resources and tools! www.meekerparenting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kids and nutrition – this may sound like an oxymoron! With the astounding number of food options available today, especially all of the processed items cloaked in clever and colorful packaging, designed to entice children of all ages, how can parents be sure their children are getting the proper nutrition that they need? A critical part of health and development, better nutrition is related to stronger immune systems, lower risk of non-communicable diseases, and longevity. Healthy children learn better, and kids with adequate nutrition are more productive in school, and at play. Some topics covered in this episode include: ·   Vitamin D: Is this supplement suggested for breast-fed babies? Formula-fed babies?·   Which supplements/minerals are most needed, and at what age should kids begin taking them?·   Which mineral specifically helps with anxiety, and is a good source of relaxation for children?·   What is a common misunderstanding when it comes to giving children milk? ·   Handling the picky eater who doesn’t want to eat healthy foods·   Cooking healthy meals doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming! Learn how to simplify.·   Why family connection during meals is vitally important to the formation of children·   Substitute healthy snacks for processed ones (which are full of chemicals and actually harm our children)·   How setting a good precedent for kids in terms of healthy eating begins with parents FROM THE PRODUCERThanks for listening to Episode #171, Nutrition & Kids: What You Don’t Want to Overlook, and for helping Dr. Meg’s parenting revolution reach more than SEVEN MILLION downloads! Please subscribe, rate and leave a review for us on iTunes! Get Social with Dr. Meg on Facebook & Instagram @MegMeekerMD Check out Dr. Meg’s parenting resources and tools! www.meekerparenting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

DR. MEG WITH GUEST DAVID THOMAS (Part 1)Boys need to be coached in the hard work of building emotional muscles. For many boys, the muscles are simply weak or underdeveloped. But weak muscles can get stronger with work. Building emotional muscles is some of the most important, yet most neglected, work in a boy’s journey to manhood. Impacting his everyday life as a son, brother, student, athlete, and friend, these muscles will define who he will become as a husband, father, friend and coworker. Guest David Thomas shares in simple yet profound detail how boys can develop the 3 R’s (Recognize, Regulate & Repair) -- Much like a car’s dashboard, they can pay attention to emotional signals that come along, and how the proper response can keep them from facing further damage down the road. BREAK DR. MEG WITH GUEST DAVID THOMAS (Part 2)Helping boys find their way to the full experience of being human and being fully masculine is what guest David Thomas is aiming for in all his work. Dr. Meg and David Thomas continue their candid conversation, discussing topics such as:·   What is the value of allowing your son to feel discomfort?·   Do violent video games have an effect on the emotions and actions of a boy?·   How does technology affect boys?·   The connection between “healthy risk” and why boys seem to be less passionate about masculine things than in the past generations Follow David Thomas on Facebook and Instagram @raisingboysandgirls and find his latest parenting resources at raisingboysandgirls.com. FROM THE PRODUCERThanks for listening to Episode #170, Raising Emotionally Strong Boys, and for helping Dr. Meg’s parenting revolution reach more than SEVEN MILLION downloads! Please subscribe, rate and leave a review for us on iTunes! Get Social with Dr. Meg on Facebook & Instagram @MegMeekerMDCheck out Dr. Meg’s parenting resources and tools! www.meekerparenting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

DESCRIPTIONAn expert on autism by life experience - having a husband as well as two grown sons with autism – and by doing decades of personal research, Jennifer Wynn Stoll joins Dr. Meeker to discuss the effects and challenges of autism, as well as Asperger’s (an autism spectrum syndrome). DR. MEG WITH GUEST JENNIFER WYNN STOLL (Part 1)Guest Jennifer Wynn Stoll explains what it was like to find out - after getting married – that her husband had autism, and how this affected her marriage. After her two sons were born, they too were diagnosed with autism at an early age. Not wanting them to be ostracized, but rather experience a full, natural life, Jennifer set out to research and advocate for her family members. BREAK DR. MEG WITH GUEST JENNIFER WYNN STOLL (Part 2)This insightful conversation between Dr. Meeker and guest Jennifer Wynn Stoll continues, discussing the challenges of autism and how to better understand and connect with those who have this diagnosis. Jennifer Wynn Stoll suggests the following resources for further information:·   The ADHD Autism Connection: A Step Toward More Accurate Diagnosis & Effective Treatment (Diane M. Kennedy)·   Ten Things Every Child with Autism Wishes You Knew (by Ellen Notbohm)·   Alone Together - Making an Asperger Marriage Work (by Katrina Bentley)·   Living Someone with Asperger’s Syndrome - Understanding & Connecting with Your Partner (by Cindy N. Ariel)·   22 Things A Woman Must Know If She Loves A Man With Asperger’s Syndrome (by Rudy Simone) Contact Jennifer at jwstoll64@gmail.com FROM THE PRODUCERThanks for listening to Episode #169, Living with Autism, and for helping Dr. Meg’s parenting revolution reach more than SEVEN MILLION downloads! Please subscribe, rate and leave a review for us on iTunes! Get Social with Dr. Meg on Facebook & Instagram @MegMeekerMDCheck out Dr. Meg’s parenting resources and tools! www.meekerparenting.com Check out the new Strong Fathers Strong Daughters Masterclass. An online course for every dad out there who wants to raise a strong, healthy and happy daughter. When you preorder you’ll get 30% off and get your in time for Father’s Day! Go to meekerparenting.com for more information. www.meekerparenting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

DR. MEG WITH GUEST ALLIE MARIE SMITH (Part 1)The everyday pressures and struggles that girls and young women face, and the feeling of not measuring up, can be overwhelming. Your daughter may be left wondering: “Is this all there is? A constant striving for self-acceptance and human approval? Or was I made for something more?” Allie Marie Smith has walked the familiar road of self-doubt and depression, both as a teenager and as a young woman, and she vulnerably shares details of her journey. Now free from symptoms of mental illness, and thriving in life, Allie’s passion is to help other young women and girls know the depth of their value, giving them hope to know that they too can overcome the struggles that they are going through. BREAK DR. MEG WITH GUEST ALLIE MARIE SMITH (Part 2)Allie Marie Smith explains how mental health is like an onion, with many layers to it, including physiological, hormonal, spiritual, circumstantial – many factors that influence our mental health. She shares how vital it is that our home environments be ones that are open to discussing any subject, any emotion, any struggle; and how parents and kids alike need to be educated about mental health, just as they are about physical health. Moms and Dads, find out what to look for in regards to symptoms of depression, and be equipped with intentional questions that you can ask your daughter in order to take a deeper look into her thoughts, feelings and mental health. FROM THE PRODUCERThanks for listening to Episode #168, Wonderfully Made, and for helping Dr. Meg’s parenting revolution reach more than SEVEN MILLION downloads! Please subscribe, rate and leave a review for us on iTunes! Get Social with Dr. Meg on Facebook & Instagram @MegMeekerMDCheck out Dr. Meg’s parenting resources and tools! www.meekerparenting.com  Check out the new Strong Fathers Strong Daughters Masterclass. An online course for every dad out there who wants to raise a strong, healthy and happy daughter. When you preorder you’ll get 30% off and get your in time for Father’s Day! Go to meekerparenting.com for more information. www.meekerparenting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

DR. MEG WITH GUEST RICHARD CAPRIOLA (Part 1)Many times, mental health and substance abuse go hand in hand. Guest Richard Capriola explains how parents are often surprised when they find out the extent of either (or both) diagnosis in their teen. They missed the warning signs because nobody told them what to look for. Richard wrote his book, “The Addicted Child: A Parent’s Guide to Adolescent Substance Abuse” in an effort to help parents know what warning signs to look for, which assessments may be needed, what the options are for treatment, and to hopefully make parents feel more confident and less afraid of the topic of adolescent substance abuse, should they need to confront it. In this episode, Richard discusses whether some personalities are more prone to addictive behavior in children as they get older, or if every child is at risk. He sheds light on the different warning signs parents need to be looking for, as well as how to effectively deal with their teen’s behavior during substance abuse treatment, without the fear of driving them away. BREAK DR. MEG WITH GUEST MAX LUCADO (Part 2)Richard Capriola and Dr. Meg continue their conversation about adolescent substance abuse, discussing which substances are most commonly being used among teens today, including a very alarming rise in vaping. Also discussed is how the COVID-19 pandemic affected adolescents – while the pandemic drove down adolescent substance abuse, it caused a dramatic increase in mental health issues among teenagers, including depression, anxiety and fear. Richard also talks about the effect of marijuana on teenagers, now that this substance has been legalized in many states. FROM THE PRODUCERThanks for listening to Episode #167, Adolescent Substance Abuse, and for helping Dr. Meg’s parenting revolution reach more than SEVEN MILLION downloads! Please subscribe, rate and leave a review for us on iTunes!Get Social with Dr. Meg on Facebook & Instagram @MegMeekerMDCheck out Dr. Meg’s parenting resources and tools! www.meekerparenting.com Check out the new Strong Fathers Strong Daughters Masterclass. An online course for every dad out there who wants to raise a strong, healthy and happy daughter. When you preorder you’ll get 30% off and get your in time for Father’s Day! Go to meekerparenting.com for more information. www.meekerparenting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

DR. MEG WITH GUEST MAX LUCADO (Part 1)John 3:16 is one of the most familiar passages in the Bible - a verse that many may be able to recite by memory - but have you taken the time to truly ponder its great significance? In this episode, best-selling author Max Lucado joins Dr. Meg to discuss the powerful and timeless truths found within this beloved scripture. A self-described “open book”, Max willingly shares from his own personal experiences, as he addresses John 3:16 truths such as: ·   God’s “whoever” policy·   God’s “whenever” policy·   The invitation of John 3:16 easily seen throughout the world·   God is a God of love and justice·   The question many of us ask: Can God forgive someone like me?·   Hell: Not for those who struggle and stumble, but for those who rebel and succeed In this thought-provoking and passionate discussion, Max describes the all-encompassing, all-inviting promise that God extends to every individual person on earth through John 3:16. BREAK DR. MEG WITH GUEST MAX LUCADO (Part 2)Max Lucado and Dr. Meg continue their conversation, discussing the beautiful invitation and promise of God found in John 3:16. FROM THE PRODUCERThanks for listening to Episode #166: 3:16 The Numbers of Hope, and for helping Dr. Meg’s parenting revolution reach more than SEVEN MILLION downloads! Subscribe, rate and leave a review for us on iTunes! Get Social with Dr. Meg on Facebook & Instagram @MegMeekerMD Check out Dr. Meg’s parenting resources and tools! www.meekerparenting.com Check out the new Strong Fathers Strong Daughters Masterclass. An online course for every dad out there who wants to raise a strong, healthy and happy daughter. When you preorder you’ll get 30% off and get your in time for Father’s Day! Go to meekerparenting.com for more information. www.meekerparenting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

DR. MEG & GUEST MELANIE HEMPE (Part 1) Join Dr. Meg and Melanie Hempe BSN as they discuss the ultra-important topic of kids and screen-time. Melanie is the founder and president of ScreenStrong, an organization empowering parents to help their children gain the benefits of screen media without the toxic consequences of overuse that threatens healthy mental and physical development. From that first feeling in your gut that something isn’t right to more obvious screen-related problems… join thousands of families who have benefited from ScreenStrong’s programs and no nonsense solutions. Say goodbye to the days of exhausting screen conflicts by learning to reset your screen habits, reclaim your kids, and reconnect your family! (BREAK) DR. MEG & GUEST MELANIE HEMPE (Part 2) Join Dr. Meg and Melanie Hempe BSN as they discuss the ultra-important topic of kids and screen-time. Melanie is the founder and president of ScreenStrong, an organization empowering parents to help their children gain the benefits of screen media without the toxic consequences of overuse that threatens healthy mental and physical development. From that first feeling in your gut that something isn’t right to more obvious screen-related problems… join thousands of families who have benefited from ScreenStrong’s programs and no nonsense solutions. Say goodbye to the days of exhausting screen conflicts by learning to reset your screen habits, reclaim your kids, and reconnect your family! FROM THE PRODUCER Thank you for listening to Episode #165: Toxic Screen Time, and for helping Dr. Meg’s parenting revolution reach more than SIX MILLION downloads! Subscribe, rate and leave a review for us on iTunes! Get Social with Dr. Meg on Facebook and Instagram @MegMeekerMD Dr. Meg’s helpful parenting resources and tools are available at www.meekerparenting.com Check out the new Strong Fathers Strong Daughters Masterclass. An online course for every dad out there who wants to raise a strong, healthy and happy daughter. When you preorder you’ll get 30% off and get your in time for Father’s Day! Go to meekerparenting.com for more information.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

DR. MEG and GUEST DR. JOHN DELONY (PART 1)Dr. Meg sits down with Dr. John Delony to discuss his new book, “Own Your Past, Change Your Future.” This book is about stories we have believed about ourselves for years. Stories we’re born into, stories that others tell us, stories we tell ourselves, and stories that have actually happened. These stories have informed everything about our lives and impact us physically, mentally, and relationally. Dr. Delony explains how the stories are both the problem and the solution, while pointing out that we’re never too old to start over again; and we’re never too young to get started. It’s not too late to put down your burdens, and change the direction of your life story! Leave your past where it belongs, and get on the path to healing, and living a full, whole and well life.BREAKDR. MEG and GUEST DR. JOHN DELONY (PART 2)Dr. Meg sits down with Dr. John Delony to discuss his new book, “Own Your Past, Change Your Future.” This book is about stories we have believed about ourselves for years. Stories we’re born into, stories that others tell us, stories we tell ourselves, and stories that have actually happened. These stories have informed everything about our lives and impact us physically, mentally, and relationally. Dr. Delony explains how the stories are both the problem and the solution, while pointing out that we’re never too old to start over again; and we’re never too young to get started. It’s not too late to put down your burdens, and change the direction of your life story! Leave your past where it belongs, and get on the path to healing, and living a full, whole and well life.FROM THE PRODUCER Thanks for listening to Episode 164, Own Your Past, Change Your Future, and for helping Dr. Meg’s parenting revolution reach more than SIX MILLION downloads! Subscribe, rate, and leave a review for us on iTunes!Get Social with Dr. Meg on Facebook or Instagram @MegMeekerMDCheck out the new Strong Fathers Strong Daughters Masterclass. An online course for every dad out there who wants to raise a strong, healthy and happy daughter. This masterclass will be available for pre-order on Thursday, May 5. That’s this Thursday! Mark it in your calendar! And if you’d like to be updated when it’s released then simply visit meekerparenting.com and you can sign up to be included. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

DR. MEG & ROLAND WARREN (Part 1)  Roland shares his own story, as a son of a teenage mom, raised with three other siblings in a home without a father present. Out of this upbringing, a passion was planted in his heart, in regards to the impact of the absence of a father in a home. An absence that not only affects the children, but also the single moms left to parent on their own. If you are a single or divorced mother of a boy, you will want to listen in as Roland speaks out of his own personal experience, giving a powerful perspective of what your growing son might say, if he had the emotional maturity and ability to share what’s going on in his heart and mind. DR. MEG & ROLAND WARREN (Part 2)The conversation continues with Roland Warren offering further guidance and wisdom to moms who want to raise their sons in a way that will help them make and keep their commitments, while breaking destructive father-patterns to become better men of character and action.  FROM THE PRODUCERThanks for listening to Episode #163, “Raising Sons of Promise” and for helping Dr. Meg’s parenting revolution reach more than SIX MILLION downloads! Subscribe, rate, and leave a review for us on iTunes! Get Social with Dr. Meg on Facebook & Instagram @MegMeekerMD Take the free Parenting Style Quiz atwww.meekerparenting.com/quizCheck out Dr. Meg’s parenting resources and tools at www.meekerparenting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices