No Thanks, Santa: How to Handle Unwanted Gifts and Set Boundaries

In this conversation, Whitney Goodman speaks to two callers and answers their questions. Question 1 addresses the complexities of navigating difficult family relationships, sharing how we feel with our family, and accepting parents. Question 2 is about gifts from estranged grandparents and the nuances of handling gifts. Join The Family Cyclebreakers Club, here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Whitney Goodman explores the complexities of gift-giving and receiving during the holiday season. She discusses the emotional weight of gifts, the pressures of navigating family dynamics, and the impact of estrangement on these interactions. Whitney provides actionable tips for setting boundaries and understanding the deeper meanings behind gifts, especially in dysfunctional family settings. The conversation highlights the importance of communication and self-awareness in managing expectations and emotions around gift-giving. Join The Family Cyclebreakers Club, here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Whitney Goodman addresses the complexities of family estrangement during the holiday season. She discusses the emotional challenges faced by individuals who are estranged from their families, particularly during a time that emphasizes togetherness. Whitney provides insights on coping strategies, the importance of setting boundaries, and the need for self-acceptance. She also emphasizes that individuals are not defined by their family dynamics. Join Whitney and other family cyclebreakers this month at Calling Home: https://callinghome.co/topics/families-and-the-holiday-season Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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Have you ever found yourself dreading the holidays because of family dynamics? In this episode, Whitney discusses dysfunctional family relationships during the holidays, the expectations we carry, and how to approach these situations in healthier ways. You will learn how to accept your family, set boundaries, and actually enjoy your holiday. We recommend listening to this before Thanksgiving dinner with your family. Our New December topic at Calling Home is Holidays and Family Relationships. You can join The Family Cyclebreakers Club here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Whitney answers two caller questions. Caller 1 is dealing with cultural pressures to care for her gaining parents. Caller 2 has parents who are politicians with beliefs that differ from her own. You can join the Family Cyclebreakers Club at Calling Home here. To learn more about Whitney and her work, visit her website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Balancing the needs of in-laws, parents, and your new family can be challenging, especially when merging families with different backgrounds and expectations. In this episode, Whitney discusses why open communication, clear boundaries, and empathy are key to maintaining balance. I Takeaways Balancing the needs of in-laws, parents, and your new family requires open communication and clear boundaries. Prioritize your immediate family while considering the needs of your extended family. Compromise and individual relationships with in-laws and parents can help navigate conflicts. Consider setting boundaries or distancing yourself in cases of abuse or harm Timeline 03:58: Negotiating Contrasting Dynamics and Tensions 06:18: Standing Up to Traditions and Family Norms 08:20: The Importance of Open Communication and Clear Boundaries 11:04: Deciding the Role of Your Extended Family 16:26: Seeking Professional Support and Setting Boundaries Connect You can join the Family Cyclebreakers Club at Calling Home here. To learn more about Whitney and her work, visit her website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Whitney speaks with two callers. She explores the complexities of parent-child relationships, emotional neglect, parentification, and the challenges of navigating relationships with disabled parents. She discusses the emotional struggles faced by children of abusive parents, the responsibilities of parents to protect their children, and the nuanced perspectives of both victims and perpetrators within family systems. Additionally, Whitney addresses the impact of family businesses on emotional connections and the anxiety that can arise from financial responsibilities placed on children. You can join the Family Cyclebreakers Club at Calling Home here. To learn more about Whitney and her work, visit her website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the wake of this election, many Americans wonder: Can I continue to have a relationship with family members who disagree with me politically? In this episode, Whitney walks you through her own journey in a large family with different political beliefs and provides you with a series of questions to explore. This episode will help you decide what is the right decision for you in your unique situation. You can join Whitney for weekly groups and content at Calling Home. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Whitney answers two caller questions. One is about enmeshed in-laws and the other is an adult who is trying to re-parent themselves. She discusses the profound effects of critical parenting on self-perception and self-love. She emphasizes that while individuals can work towards healing and self-acceptance, they may never fully replicate the unconditional love and support that their parents should have provided. Whitney encourages listeners to acknowledge their experiences and the impact of childhood trauma while also recognizing the importance of self-compassion and understanding in their healing journey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices