Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Teenagers w/ Dr. Melanie McNally

In this conversation, Nina and Dr. Melanie McNally discuss the complexities of adolescence, focusing on emotional regulation, the impact of childhood experiences, and the importance of fostering independence in teens. They explore how early communication about emotions can shape a child's ability to cope as they grow, and provide practical advice for parents on how to support their children through these critical developmental stages. In this conversation, Dr. Melanie McNally discusses the challenges of parenting teens, focusing on the balance between granting independence and maintaining boundaries. She emphasizes the importance of logical consequences, scaffolding, and emotional awareness in helping teens navigate social pressures and develop resilience. The discussion also highlights the significance of open communication and creating a safe space for teens to express their feelings, especially regarding peer influence and emotional health. 00:00: Navigating Troubled Teen Years 02:02: Understanding Adolescent Psychology 04:24: The Impact of Childhood on Teen Emotions 09:29: Building Emotional Awareness in Children 16:55: Fostering Independence and Critical Thinking in Teens 22:25: Navigating Teen Independence and Boundaries 28:56: Coping with Social Pressures and Expectations 33:19: Understanding Emotional Contagion and Peer Influence 38:51: Processing Emotions and Building Resilience Dr. Melanie McNally is a licensed clinical psychologist and brain coach who helps people maximize their potential so they get the most out of life. From adolescents struggling with motivation to executives seeking direction, she helps people feel less overwhelmed, figure out their next steps, and reach meaningful goals. Dr. Melanie has worked in the field of psychology since 2005 and has written two books, The Emotionally Intelligent Teen and Helping Your Unmotivated Teen. Recognized nationally for her expertise, Dr. Melanie has been invited to the White House to discuss the paramount importance of teen mental health. She's appeared in The Huffington Post, Parents Magazine, Business Insider, Fast Company, and more. Episode Sponsor: Visit activeskinrepair.com  to learn more about Active Skin Repair and to get 20% off your order, use code: MAMAKNOWS New customers can enjoy this special offer of only $1.99 a meal. Go to everyplate.com/podcast and use code mamaknows199 to get started. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Nina and Caroline delve into the complexities of people pleasing, exploring its roots in childhood trauma and its impact on identity and self-esteem. They discuss how people pleasing manifests in various areas of life, including work and family, and the importance of setting boundaries. Caroline shares practical steps for overcoming people pleasing tendencies, emphasizing self-love and emotional regulation. The discussion also highlights the significance of parenting in shaping children's emotional health and the journey towards finding one's true self. 00:00: Understanding People Pleasing 03:50: The Roots of People Pleasing 10:08: Manifestations of People Pleasing 14:10: Impact of Childhood on People Pleasing 22:47: People Pleasing and Identity Crisis 29:04: Overcoming People Pleasing 36:30: Finding Your True Self Caroline is a German-born international psychologist, trauma expert, and devoted single mom, currently based in Amsterdam. Known for her warm, authentic approach and deep commitment to mental health awareness, Caroline has become a trusted guide for celebrities, athletes, coaches, and individuals from all walks of life. Her own healing journey fuels her passion, making her work deeply relatable, authentic and impactful. Caroline has dedicated her life to helping others navigate their healing paths. She’s the creator of a transformative trauma healing program Phoenix—rooted in her personal experiences—that has already helped countless people around the world break free from pain and step into their true selves. As the host of her own inspiring podcast (the Caroline Middelsdorf podcast). Caroline travels the globe, sitting down with experts, thought leaders, and public figures to share real, raw stories that remind us all: we each have a story worth telling. Her mission? To help 1 million people heal and create a ripple effect of awareness, compassion, and growth. Caroline leads with heart and soul, offering a guiding light for those who feel stuck in the dark. Her work is more than a profession—it’s a calling to make healing accessible, authentic, and to bring back connection, kindness, and care into the world. Above all, she strives to bring people closer together, reminding them that they are never alone in their struggles Episode Sponsors: Get started at factormeals.com/mamaknows50off and use code mamaknows50off to get 50% off plus FREE shipping on your first box. Visit activeskinrepair.com  to learn more about Active Skin Repair and to get  20% off your order, use code: MAMAKNOWS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Nina and Dr. Morgan Cutlips delve into the complexities of the mental load in relationships, particularly focusing on the emotional labor involved in parenting and household responsibilities. They explore how the mental load affects attraction and communication between partners, the importance of recognizing and sharing responsibilities, and strategies to navigate resentment and achieve a fair balance in relationships. In this conversation, Morgan and Nina explore the complexities of household responsibilities and the mental load that often falls disproportionately on women. They discuss the importance of communication, appreciation, and the need for couples to navigate their roles in a partnership effectively. Morgan shares practical strategies for making invisible tasks visible and framing conversations about the mental load in a way that fosters understanding and collaboration. The discussion also touches on how the mental load can impact intimacy and connection within relationships, emphasizing the need for appreciation and teamwork. 00:00: Understanding the Mental Load 12:10: The Emotional Labor of Parenting 23:46: Navigating Resentment and Fairness in Relationships 24:29: Navigating Household Responsibilities 26:10: The Piling On of Precedence 28:31: Making the Invisible Visible 32:31: Communicating the Mental Load 36:24: Framing Difficult Conversations 40:25: The Impact of Mental Load on Intimacy Dr. Morgan Cutlip, PhD in Psychology and highly sought after relationship expert, knows what it feels like to lose yourself in motherhood, and she’s determined to help mothers navigate it better. Throughout her career, she has helped hundreds of thousands of people worldwide learn how to form and maintain healthy relationships. Dr. Morgan has been a featured relationship expert with Good Morning America, Teen Vogue, The New York Times, Women’s Health Magazine, MOPS International, Loveology, and Flo, the #1 app in health and fitness. Her new book, A Better Share, is available now! Episode Sponsor: Visit activeskinrepair.com  to learn more about Active Skin Repair and to get 20% off your order, use code: MAMAKNOWS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This conversation delves into the pressing issue of school violence and gun safety, particularly from the perspective of parents. Nina shares her emotional journey as a mother concerned about her child's safety in school, while Rep. Deb Andraca discusses her personal experiences and legislative efforts aimed at reducing gun violence. They explore the importance of responsible gun ownership, the need for preventive measures, and the role of community engagement in advocating for safer schools. The discussion emphasizes the significance of understanding statistics, recognizing warning signs, and promoting a culture of gun safety to protect children and communities. 00:00: The Impact of School Violence on Families 02:01: Personal Experiences with School Safety 04:43: Gun Ownership and Responsibility 06:13: Statistics on School Violence and Gun Safety 09:14: Identifying Warning Signs for Prevention 12:09: The Need for Legislative Change 15:34: Resources for Moms to Get Involved 18:15: Promoting Gun Safety in Homes 21:21: Advocating for School Safety Policies 26:14: The Importance of Community Engagement Rep. Deb Andraca is honored to serve as the representative for Wisconsin’s 23rd Assembly District, a role they have proudly held since making history in 2020. In the Wisconsin State Assembly, Deb serves on several key committees, including the Joint Committee on Finance, Education, and Forestry, Parks, and Outdoor Recreation. Their dedication and leadership have earned them numerous accolades, such as the Legislator of the Year Award from both the American College of Physicians Wisconsin Chapter and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), as well as the Champion of Commerce Award from the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association Chamber of Commerce. They have also been recognized as a Conservation Champion by the Wisconsin League of Conservation Voters and received the Building Wisconsin Award from the Associate Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin. Professionally, Deb brings a wealth of experience in education, communications, and policy. They have served as a substitute teacher and a former summer school math teacher at Bruce Guadalupe Community School, as well as a substitute teacher in the Whitefish Bay School District. Their background also includes work as a communications director and lobbyist at the Environmental Law and Policy Center of the Midwest, vice president at FleishmanHillard International Communications, and executive assistant at the Solar Energy Industries Association. Episode Sponsor: Visit activeskinrepair.com  to learn more about Active Skin Repair and to get 20% off your order, use code: MAMAKNOWS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Nina and Caroline delve into the significance of self-care, particularly for mothers, and how it often gets misconstrued. They discuss the challenges of maternal mental health, the guilt that comes with prioritizing personal needs, and the importance of redefining self-care beyond traditional notions. Caroline emphasizes the need for systemic support for mothers while also encouraging them to embrace their worthiness and prioritize their well-being. The discussion highlights the journey of motherhood, the societal pressures faced, and the importance of community support in navigating these challenges. In this conversation, Caroline and Nina explore the complexities of guilt in motherhood, distinguishing between helpful and unhelpful guilt. They discuss the importance of self-care, emphasizing that it is not just about indulgence but also about making choices that support long-term well-being. The conversation highlights the need to let go of perfection in parenting and the significance of surrounding oneself with supportive influences to foster a healthier mindset. 00:00: The Importance of Self-Care 05:59: Navigating Guilt in Motherhood 11:49: The Role of Community and Support 17:53: Embracing Personal Worthiness 24:14: The Importance of Self-Care for Moms 32:44: Self-Care: A Holistic Approach Dr. Caroline Dickens is a San Francisco-based licensed clinical psychologist specializing in perinatal, reproductive, and maternal mental health. She is co-founder of the Palmetto Psychology Clinic, which specializes in treating mental health concerns uniquely impacting women across the lifespan. She loves supporting expecting and postpartum parents in navigating the anxiety, guilt, relationship challenges, and complex feelings that come with this transition. She is especially passionate about helping new moms let go of what they think they “should” be doing and clarify what they really want out of their own motherhood. Outside of the therapy room, she loves to support a wider audience of moms through her social media and as co-host of The Moms Are Alright podcast. As mom to a sweet and spicy 2 year old boy who is expecting her second baby this summer, she is also walking the journey right alongside the moms she supports. Carolyn has a mental health skills course for expecting & postpartum moms called Becoming Mom. Check out her therapy practice here: Palmetto Psychology Clinic Episode sponsor: New customers can enjoy this special offer of only $1.99 a meal. Go to everyplate.com/podcast and use code mamaknows199 to get started. Visit activeskinrepair.com  to learn more about Active Skin Repair and to get  20% off your order, use code: MAMAKNOWS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Nina and Lee discuss the importance of financial literacy for children and how families can create a culture of value creation at home. They explore the Dinner Table method, which emphasizes teaching kids about money through practical experiences and collaborative discussions. The conversation highlights common mistakes parents make in money education, the significance of healthy struggles, and practical steps families can take to instill responsible money habits in their children. In this conversation, the focus is on empowering children to become self-reliant and financially competent through practical experiences and responsibilities. The discussion emphasizes the importance of allowing children to earn money through chores and 'brain gigs', fostering a sense of value and responsibility. The concept of holistic value creation within families is explored, highlighting the balance between financial education and emotional well-being. The conversation also addresses the significance of early financial education and the role of parents in guiding their children through healthy struggles, ultimately leading to stronger family dynamics and values. 00:00: Family Meetings and Financial Literacy Goals 05:47: Teaching Kids About Money: The Dinner Table Method 11:58: Building a Value Creation Culture at Home 18:11: Collaborative Conversations About Saving and Spending 23:32: Empowering Self-Reliance in Children 28:33: Understanding Value: Brain Gigs 34:42: The Importance of Early Financial Education Lee Benson is the CEO of Dinner Table, a revolutionary platform helping families teach their kids financial literacy, value creation, and personal responsibility. Under his leadership, Dinner Table has grown into a thriving, community-driven learning system, empowering parents to instill real-world financial skills in their children through guided discussions, interactive tools, and hands-on experiences. Lee has played a pivotal role in refining Dinner Table’s offerings, transitioning from a banking app to a dynamic education platform that prioritizes engagement and real-world application. By strengthening the community, optimizing content delivery, and enhancing parent-led mentorship, he has helped thousands of families integrate financial education into everyday life. His focus remains on making financial literacy accessible, practical, and transformative for the next generation. Find Lee at: @dinnertablefamily https://dinnertable.com/ Episode Sponsor: Visit activeskinrepair.com  to learn more about Active Skin Repair and to get  20% off your order, use code: MAMAKNOWS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Nina, Jennifer, and Emmalee explore the complexities of emotional energy, expectations in relationships, and the concept of radical acceptance. They discuss how deeply feeling individuals navigate their emotions and the impact of their partner's feelings on their own emotional state. The discussion delves into anxiety, the dynamics of partnership, and the importance of self-care and emotional management. They emphasize the need to differentiate between what we need and what we want in emotional support, ultimately advocating for self-awareness and self-care as foundational to healthy relationships. In this conversation, Jennifer Chaiken and Emmalee Bierly discuss the profound impact of childhood experiences on emotional management and self-trust. They explore the challenges of parenting in survival mode, the concept of radical acceptance versus taking action, and the complexities of adult friendships. The discussion highlights the importance of recognizing emotions, navigating control in relationships, and the natural evolution of friendships over time. They emphasize the need for open communication and the significance of emotional intelligence in fostering healthy connections. 00:00: The Power of Emotional Energy 03:01: Navigating Expectations in Relationships 06:13: Understanding Radical Acceptance 08:52: The Spiral of Anxiety and Emotional Responses 12:05: The Dynamics of Partnership and Emotional Support 14:59: Self-Care and Emotional Management 17:57: The Need vs. Want in Emotional Support 24:40: Childhood Influences on Emotional Management 27:10: Survival Mode in Parenting 28:47: Radical Acceptance vs. Action 31:09: Navigating Control in Relationships 35:12: The Complexity of Adult Friendships 40:24: Grieving Friendships and Social Dynamics Emmalee Bierly & Jennifer Chaiken are both Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists, co-owners of The Therapy Group, a collective of warm, authentic therapists, and co-hosts of the ShrinkChicks Podcast! They believe in being down to earth, authentic, and transparent, which are values they bring both to their practice as well as their podcast! Their mission is to make therapy more relatable and accessible, working to break down that clinical wall. Connect with Emmalee and Jennifer: The Therapy Group: www.thetherapygroup.com (Emmalee and Jen's co-owned private practice that has warm, down-to-earth, therapists accepting new clients nationwide) ShrinkChicks Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shrinkchicks/id1483261668 (Emmalee and Jen's weekly podcast where they discuss therapy and therapeutic topics in a relatable, accessible way) Instagram pages: @shrinkchicks and @thetherapygrp Episode Sponsor Active Skin Repair, a skin health company helping people heal with natural / non-toxic, medical grade grade ingredients. Visit activeskinrepair.com  to learn more about Active Skin Repair and to get 20% off your order, use code: MAMAKNOWS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Nina and Becky discuss the complexities of yelling as a parenting strategy, exploring its roots in personal experiences and childhood conditioning. They delve into the psychological mechanisms behind why yelling seems effective, the challenges of breaking the cycle of learned behaviors, and the importance of self-regulation for parents. The discussion highlights the emotional turmoil that can arise during extreme meltdowns and offers practical strategies for parents to manage their own responses while supporting their children. In this conversation, Nina and Becky Jennings explore the complexities of parenting, particularly focusing on the impact of yelling and the importance of emotional regulation. They discuss different types of yelling, the psychological effects on children, and strategies for parents to unlearn yelling behaviors. The conversation emphasizes the significance of repairing relationships after conflicts and how to communicate effectively with children. Becky shares practical tips for parents to visualize their responses and practice skills in calm moments, fostering a supportive environment for both parents and children. 00:00: The Yelling Journey: A Personal Reflection 05:01: Understanding the Mechanism of Yelling 10:09: The Challenge of Breaking Patterns 15:09: Navigating Extreme Meltdowns 20:00: Regulating Ourselves as Parents 25:54: Understanding Yelling: Types and Effects 39:03: Unlearning Yelling: Strategies for Parents 47:03: The Importance of Repairing Relationships 53:02: Connecting with Becky: Resources and Community Becky Jennings, is the mom of 3 boys: 2 of which she has the privilege of raising and 1 who she lost in labor and delivery - her son Jackson was the catalyst to her entire healing journey and why she is here today. She is a mom to an ADHD child, parent coach, founder of ResponseABLE Parenting, where she helps parents understand their triggers so they can go from reacting to the chaos of parenting to responding with aligned intention. She lives in Los Angeles, loves cooking but hates meal planning, loves reading but mostly listens on Audible, she is both a pragmatist and very woo woo, driven by her passion to connect with others and to support her children in ways she could have only dreamed of as a kid. Episode Sponsor: Eat smart with Factor. Get started at factormeals.com/factorpodcast and use code FACTORPODCAST to get 50% off your first box plus free shipping on your first box! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Nina and Caitlin Schollmeier discuss the complexities of the postpartum period, focusing on the challenges of identity shifts, mental health awareness, and the importance of building support systems for new mothers. Caitlin shares her experiences as a nurse midwife and offers practical advice for navigating the transition into motherhood, emphasizing the need for self-care and community support. 00:00: Introduction to Postpartum Challenges 05:00: Navigating Identity Shifts in Motherhood 14:02: Mental Health Awareness in Postpartum 21:00: Building Support Systems and Resources 25:03: Practical Tips for New Mothers Caitlyn Schollmeier is a registered labor & delivery nurse, childbirth educator and certified birth doula with more than a decade of experience in maternal care. She is devoted to the health and wellbeing of parents and their babies, having served more than 500 families over the past 10 years, with deep expertise in early childhood development, pregnancy, labor, birth, postpartum and women’s health. Caitlyn earned a B.A. in Human Development and pursued three years of graduate-level midwifery study, yet considers herself a lifelong student and advocate of pregnancy support and child development. You can find her on TikTok: themodernmidwife  Episode Sponsor Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @lumedeodorant and get 15% off with promo code MAMAKNOWS at Lumedeodorant.com! #lumepod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Nina and Cassidy introduce a new segment called 'Tea with Moms,' where they discuss relatable topics and share personal experiences. They dive into pop culture gossip, explore friendship dynamics, and tackle listener-submitted dilemmas about relationships, in-laws, and marriage. The conversation emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries, validating feelings, and maintaining connections in various relationships. The hosts aim to create a supportive environment for listeners, encouraging open discussions about the challenges of motherhood and relationships. 00:00: Introduction and Tech Mishaps 03:01: Tea with Moms: New Segment Introduction 06:07: Pop Culture Segment: Current Events and Gossip 09:06: Am I the Asshole? Friendship Breakups 14:04: In-Law Dynamics and Family Relationships 21:48: Navigating Annoyances in Marriage 27:06: Trust Issues: Friendships and Boundaries 35:56: We will be back! Episode Sponsors: Factor Meals  Eat smart with Factor. Get started at factormeals.com/mamaknows50off and use code mamaknows50off to get 50% off your first box plus free shipping.  Branch Basics Make this year the year you say goodbye to toxic products! Right now, our listeners get 15% off the Premium Starter Kit by using code MAMAKNOWS at BranchBasics.com. Make 2025 your cleanest, healthiest year yet with Branch Basics! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices