

Pop Culture Parenting
Dr Billy Garvey, Nick McCormack
This podcast is about finding the sweetspot between the textbooks and real life when it comes to parenting. Dr Billy (a developmental pediatrician) and Nick (a developing parent) are a couple of dads having honest discussions about parenting day to day
We'll be using iconic TV and cinema scenes from the 80's & 90's to give context to Billy's parenting advice.
Please subscribe and tell us what parenting topics and movie scenes we should talk about next
We'll be using iconic TV and cinema scenes from the 80's & 90's to give context to Billy's parenting advice.
Please subscribe and tell us what parenting topics and movie scenes we should talk about next
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 20, 2025 • 1h 28min
Episode 119: How to play reflection
This playful discussion dives into the challenges of engaging with kids through play. The hosts examine the important role of educators and how play evolves from childhood to the teenage years. They identify key features of play and explore how adults can reclaim their playful spirit. Insights on co-parenting balance, the benefits of play therapy in processing trauma, and practical tips for neurodivergent parents are shared. Strategies for connecting with hesitant teens and staying present amid distractions round out this lively conversation.

11 snips
Oct 6, 2025 • 1h 3min
Episode 118: The Sound of Music & how to play
Discover how play shapes child development and emotional well-being. The hosts dive into why it can be tough for parents to engage in play, exploring barriers like energy and lost habits. Learn about child-led play techniques and the importance of mirroring emotions. They highlight imaginative play as a rehearsal for real-life challenges and discuss therapeutic applications. Plus, there's a fascinating link to The Sound of Music, showing how playful approaches can transform family dynamics. Practical tips for making playtime count are a must-listen!

23 snips
Sep 22, 2025 • 1h 18min
Episode 117: Dr Tina Payne Bryson & the science in action
In this engaging discussion, Dr. Tina Payne Bryson, a bestselling author and psychotherapist, dives into the intersection of science and parenting. She breaks down complex concepts like attachment theory, emphasizing the importance of the 'Four S's'—safe, seen, soothed, secure. Tina shares practical strategies for managing neurodiversity and co-regulation. Also, she discusses how to reframe discipline as a teaching tool, encouraging emotional growth in children. With insightful references to pop culture, including The Sopranos, she highlights the journey to earned secure attachment.

18 snips
Sep 8, 2025 • 1h 41min
Episode 116: Understanding adolescence reflection
Explore the intricate world of teenage identity and how activities like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can promote self-discovery. Dive into the challenges of parental communication and the importance of open dialogue to strengthen relationships. Discover unique insights into supporting neurodivergent teens while navigating societal pressures. Find practical strategies for managing emotional connections and enhancing resilience. Plus, enjoy a light-hearted discussion about survival strategies inspired by popular culture, inviting audience engagement throughout!

19 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 1h 8min
Episode 115:The Hunger Games & understanding adolescence
Exploring the turbulent journey of adolescence, the conversation delves into identity formation and the critical role of peer relationships. Listeners are treated to humorous anecdotes about parenting challenges, community support, and first-time experiences like a child’s first footy match. The impact of media on teen life is examined, with a focus on societal pressures reflected in popular stories. Practical strategies for parents are shared, emphasizing the balance between guidance and autonomy during these transformative years.

19 snips
Aug 11, 2025 • 1h 44min
Episode 114: Survival reflection
Dive into heartfelt stories of survival shared by listeners, offering raw reflections and practical tips for parenting amidst chaos. Enjoy humorous takes on bedtime battles and contrasting parenting styles that highlight the joy and frustration of raising children. Explore the emotional complexities of parenting neurodivergent kids and the importance of community support. The conversation encourages self-kindness, healing, and the significance of empathy in nurturing family dynamics, all woven into a tapestry of transformative personal growth.

15 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 1h 5min
Episode 113: Gladiator & survival
This discussion dives into the parenting struggles of feeling like a gladiator in the arena of life. It emphasizes the need for self-compassion and the importance of supporting children's mental health. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the joys and challenges of holiday parenting, alongside the philosophy of stoicism represented in 'Gladiator.' The conversation touches on father-son dynamics and the benefits of self-care for parents, creating a supportive community for shared experiences and insights.

75 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 1h 51min
Episode 112: Nurturing neurodiversity reflection (part 2)
Dive into the science of neurodiversity and its real-world applications for supporting kids. Exceptional educators share insights on helping neurodivergent students, while the conversation touches on Pathological Demand Avoidance and its challenges. Explore the importance of playfulness in parenting and effective communication strategies. Discover how to reframe harmful labels and the significance of creating supportive, inclusive environments for all children. Heartfelt stories and personal reflections enrich the discussion, promoting empathy and understanding.

42 snips
Jun 30, 2025 • 1h 51min
Episode 111: Nurturing neurodiversity reflection (part 1)
This discussion offers insights into the challenges faced by neurodivergent children and the importance of nurturing their unique identities. They explore the complexities of masking, rejection sensitive dysphoria, and emotional sensitivity. Personal anecdotes highlight the balance between medication and individuality. The conversation emphasizes supportive environments in both education and home, advocating for understanding and community acceptance. Heartfelt reflections from listeners further illuminate the journey of parenting neurodiverse kids, celebrating both struggles and victories.

44 snips
Jun 16, 2025 • 1h 16min
Episode 110: The Green Mile & nurturing neurodiversity
The discussion delves into the portrayal of neurodiversity in films like 'The Green Mile,' emphasizing the need for better understanding and support. Light-hearted anecdotes about grappling and parenting challenges add humor, while sleep struggles and bedtime routines provide relatable insights. Personal experiences reveal the complexities of raising neurodivergent children and the importance of inclusive education. Ultimately, the conversation advocates for nurturing unique abilities and emotional well-being in neurodiverse kids.


