Navigating Difficult Conversations in Your Relationship w/ Malina

In this conversation, Nina and psychologist Malina discuss the importance of having difficult conversations in relationships, the patterns that can lead to defensiveness and blame, and how to shift these dynamics towards understanding and effective communication. They explore the significance of awareness, the role of boundaries, and the potential benefits of written communication in navigating emotional discussions. Malina shares practical strategies for fostering a healthier dialogue between partners, emphasizing the need for vulnerability and teamwork. 00:00 Navigating Difficult Conversations in Relationships 02:13 Understanding Patterns and Personal Growth 04:53 Identifying Toxic Patterns in Relationships 06:30 Shifting Blame to Understanding 10:37 Effective Communication Strategies 12:37 Dealing with Defensiveness in Partners 16:38 Setting Boundaries for Healthy Conversations 20:38 Using Written Communication for Clarity Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Nina Caviggiola and Dr. Kara Natterson explore the complexities and awkwardness surrounding puberty discussions. They emphasize the importance of open communication between parents and children, addressing the emotional and physical changes that occur during puberty. Dr. Natterson shares insights on how to approach these conversations, the role of trusted adults, and the impact of social influences on children's understanding of their bodies. The discussion highlights the need for early education and normalization of these topics to foster a healthy understanding of puberty and sexuality. 05:01 Understanding Puberty: A Pediatrician's Perspective 09:54 The Role of Parents in Discussing Puberty 15:09 Normalizing Conversations About Bodies and Emotions 19:47 Setting Boundaries and Discussing Self-Exploration 24:48 The Importance of Early Conversations About Puberty 30:05 Empowering Kids Through Knowledge and Open Dialogue Cara Natterson, MD, is a pediatrician and New York Times bestselling author dedicated to demystifying the tween and teen years with science and humor. As the founder of Less Awkward and co-host of the This is So Awkward podcast, Cara empowers kids – and the adults who care about them – with essential knowledge about growing up. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Nina and Zara discuss the profound impact of labeling children, both positively and negatively. They explore how labels can limit a child's potential and the importance of fostering a growth mindset. The discussion also delves into the effects of parental venting, sibling comparisons, and gender labels, emphasizing the need for parents to advocate for their children and recognize the internalized effects of labels. Zara provides practical strategies for reframing conversations about children and highlights the importance of acknowledging both challenges and strengths in parenting. 04:32 Understanding Developmental Psychology in Labeling 06:30 The Fine Line of Complimenting Children 09:49 Venting and Its Effects on Parenting 16:27 Sibling Comparisons and Team Dynamics 23:10 The Impact of Child Comparisons 26:43 Understanding Gender Labels in Parenting 30:58 Reframing Shyness and Caution 38:24 Recognizing and Addressing Internalized Labels Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Nina Caviggiola and Alivia Hall explore the significance of understanding and processing emotions in the body. They discuss the importance of sitting with feelings, the challenges of emotional awareness, and the necessity of self-compassion. The dialogue also touches on how to navigate feelings of exclusion, the impact of core beliefs on emotional responses, and practical strategies for emotional regulation. Finally, they emphasize the importance of modeling emotional awareness for children, highlighting that parents must first regulate their own emotions to effectively teach their kids. Alivia Hall, LCSW, is a psychotherapist and the founder of LiteMinded, a boutique private practice based in New York City. Her work focuses on helping young adults in their 20s and 30s navigate the quiet struggles of modern adulthood—like anxiety, perfectionism, people-pleasing, and complex trauma. Through a relational and compassionate lens, she supports clients in untangling what’s weighing them down so they can feel more grounded, connected, and like themselves again.You can find her on Instagram at @litemindedtherapy, where she shares honest insights about mental health, relationships, and the emotional growing pains no one talks about. 00:00 Understanding Emotions in the Body 03:03 The Importance of Sitting with Feelings 06:04 Navigating Emotional Awareness 08:47 Judgment and Self-Compassion in Emotions 14:49 Healing Core Beliefs 18:01 Accessible Emotional Practices 21:06 Modeling Emotional Regulation for Kids Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Nina and Karley explore the complexities of gender roles, ambition, and the unique shame that women often experience. They discuss how societal expectations shape women's self-perception and the pressure they feel from both themselves and other women. The conversation also highlights the importance of supportive relationships and the empowerment that comes from vulnerability and acceptance of needing help. 03:06 The Impact of Shame on Women 06:01 Societal Expectations and Self-Perception 11:51 Empowerment Through Vulnerability 20:48 Stereotypes and Shame Among Women 23:35 Navigating Shame and Self-Perception 27:35 Social Media's Influence on Self-Comparison 29:43 Coping Mechanisms and Acceptance Karley Weinberg is a working mom of two, stepmom of one, and content creator with a background in Sociology, Public Health, and Law. She is passionate about mental health and uses her social media platform to put complicated and sometimes contradictory emotions into words. With a focus on self-esteem, trauma, and neurodivergence, Karley’s goal is to use humor and relatability to help others feel seen and slightly less alone.  Episode Sponsor: Get started at Factormeals.com/mamaknows50off and use code mamaknows50off to get 50% off plus FREE shipping on your first box. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Nina and Charlotte delve into the complexities of perfectionism, exploring its protective nature and how it often leads to procrastination. They discuss the impact of perfectionism on self-worth and inner dialogue, and provide practical steps for breaking the cycle of self-sabotage. The conversation also touches on parenting and how to nurture children without imposing perfectionist standards. 00:00: Understanding Perfectionism06:11: The Protective Nature of Perfectionism12:00: Procrastination and Perfectionism: A Vicious Cycle16:26: Breaking the Cycle: Practical Steps to Overcome Perfectionism24:50: Parenting and Perfectionism: Nurturing Without Pressure Charlotte Grimmel is a psychologist (MSc) and holistic business coach who works at the intersection of mindset, high-performance psychology, and strategy. She helps high-achieving entrepreneurs develop the internal clarity and capacity to grow the business they actually want—without relying on hype, hustle, or someone else’s playbook. Her work focuses on the mental models, emotional habits, and self-concepts that shape how we lead, make decisions, and show up in the world. Through her coaching practice and platform @themindfriend (195k+ followers), Charlotte turns deep psychological insight into practical tools for navigating visibility, leadership, and growth. Known for her direct yet compassionate approach, she helps people transform their relationship with their minds—rather than fighting against themselves. Episode Sponsor: Build the best summer ever with KiwiCo! Get $15 off on your Summer Adventure Series at kiwico.com/MAMKNOWS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Nina and Dr. Cindy explore the concept of boredom, particularly in the context of parenting. They discuss how societal pressures often lead parents to keep their children busy, which can hinder emotional development. Dr. Cindy emphasizes that boredom is an emotion that needs to be acknowledged and managed, rather than avoided. The discussion highlights the importance of allowing children to experience boredom as a means of fostering creativity and emotional regulation. They also provide practical strategies for parents to support their children in coping with boredom and understanding their emotions. In this conversation, Cindy and Nina explore the importance of scaffolding in learning and emotional reflection for children. They discuss how to manage boredom, the impact of technology on emotional regulation, and the significance of teaching coping skills. The dialogue emphasizes the need for parents to validate their children's feelings and revisit emotional experiences to foster better emotional intelligence and regulation. 00:00: The Challenge of Boredom05:01: Understanding Boredom as an Emotion10:02: Supporting Children Through Boredom15:01: Coping Mechanisms for Boredom20:11: Practical Strategies for Parents21:09: Understanding and Managing Boredom24:42: The Impact of Technology on Emotional Regulation27:28: Teaching Emotional Coping Skills30:43: Revisiting Emotions and Validating Feelings Dr. Cindy Hovington, a mom of three and Ph.D. in neuroscience, is the founder of Curious Neuron—an evidence-based platform dedicated to helping parents understand and regulate their emotions, so they can model healthy coping strategies for their children. She also hosts The Reflective Parenting Podcast, where she dives into the emotional challenges of parenthood with compassion and science-backed insights. Many of us grew up without learning how to manage stress or emotions effectively, and now, as parents, we face the difficult task of unlearning old patterns while trying to teach our kids something better. Curious Neuron bridges that gap, offering not just information about emotions, but real tools to build emotion regulation skills through its Reflective Parent Club. Start building your self-awareness today by grabbing one of our free resources! Episode Sponsor:Get started at factormeals.com/mamaknows50off and use code mamaknows50off to get 50 percent off plus FREE shipping on your first box. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Nina and Dr. Alexandra Solomon explore the nuanced differences between secrecy and privacy in relationships, emphasizing the importance of trust and communication. They discuss how technology has changed relationship dynamics, the impact of childhood experiences on adult behavior, and the necessity of understanding emotional needs in partnerships. The dialogue highlights the significance of approaching sensitive topics with curiosity rather than accusation, fostering a deeper connection between partners. In this conversation, Nina and Dr. Alexandra explore the complexities of vulnerability in relationships, the importance of understanding boundaries and privacy, and how healthy privacy can enhance intimacy. They discuss the significance of emotional safety and the need for couples to invest in connection and fun to maintain a strong relationship. The dialogue emphasizes self-awareness and the impact of past experiences on current relationships, providing insights into navigating challenges and fostering growth.00:00: Understanding Secrecy vs. Privacy in Relationships02:56: The Evolution of Relationship Dynamics06:00: The Impact of Technology on Trust08:56: Navigating Privacy and Secrecy11:55: Childhood Influences on Relationship Behavior15:11: Effective Communication in Relationships19:45: Navigating Vulnerability in Relationships24:43: Understanding Boundaries and Privacy28:31: The Role of Healthy Privacy in Intimacy35:55: Investing in Connection and Fun in RelationshipsAlexandra H. Solomon, PhD, is internationally recognized as one of today’s most trustedvoices in the world of relationships, and her framework of Relational Self-Awareness hasreached millions of people around the globe. A couple therapist, speaker, author, professor,podcast host, and media personality, Dr. Alexandra is passionate about translating cutting-edgeresearch and clinical wisdom into practical tools people can use to bring awareness, curiosity,and authenticity to their relationships. She is a clinician educator and a frequent contributor toacademic journals and research, and she translates her academic and therapeutic experience to the public through her popular and vibrant Instagram page, which has garnered over 200Kfollowers. She is an adjunct professor in the School of Education and Social Policy atNorthwestern University and is a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice. Her hitpodcast, Reimagining Love, has reached listeners across the globe and features high-profileguests from the worlds of therapy, academia, and pop culture. She is the award-winning authorof Taking Sexy Back: How to Own Your Sexuality and Create the Relationships YouWant, Loving Bravely: 20 Lessons of Self-Discovery to Help You Get the Love You Want,and Love Every Day: 365 Relational Self-Awareness Practices to Help Your Relationship Heal,Grow, and Thrive. You can visit her online at https://dralexandrasolomon.com/ and on Instagramat @dr.alexandra.solomon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Nina and Carrie delve into the complexities of catastrophic thinking and high functioning anxiety. Nina shares her personal experiences with catastrophic thoughts, particularly in her roles as a professional and a mother. Carrie, a therapist specializing in high functioning anxiety, explains the nature of this anxiety and how it manifests in seemingly successful individuals. They discuss the disconnect between external appearances and internal struggles, the mechanisms behind catastrophic thinking, and the roots of these thought patterns. The conversation also explores the differences between anticipatory anxiety and healthy preparation, providing insights into managing these feelings effectively. In this conversation, Nina and Carrie Howard delve into the complexities of catastrophic thinking, exploring its roots in fear and anxiety. They discuss how different individuals experience catastrophic thoughts in various situations and provide practical strategies for recognizing and managing these thoughts. The conversation emphasizes the importance of sitting with discomfort and uncertainty, as well as offering support to loved ones who may struggle with anxiety. Carrie shares valuable techniques for grounding oneself and fostering a sense of safety, ultimately encouraging listeners to cultivate self-awareness and compassion in their mental health journeys. 00:00: Understanding Catastrophic Thinking03:05: High Functioning Anxiety Explained06:03: The Disconnect Between Appearance and Reality08:34: Defining Catastrophic Thinking09:13: The Mechanism of Catastrophic Thinking11:37: The Roots of Catastrophic Thinking17:51: Anticipatory Anxiety vs. Catastrophic Thinking19:10: Healthy Preparation vs. Catastrophic Thinking20:50: Understanding Catastrophic Thinking23:56: Practical Strategies to Combat Catastrophizing30:06: Sitting with Discomfort and Uncertainty34:00: Supporting Others Through Catastrophic Thinking Carrie Howard is a licensed anxiety therapist, mental health educator, and content creator who specializes in high-functioning anxiety, overthinking, perfectionism, and people-pleasing. With over a decade of clinical experience—and a personal journey with anxiety herself—she helps women face their fears, build self-trust, and navigate life with more confidence and calm. Carrie’s work has been featured in outlets like Good Morning America, Shape, HuffPost, and Verywell Mind, and she’s known for blending professional insight with a deeply compassionate, relatable approach. Episode Sponsor: Get started at factormeals.com/mamaknows50off and use code mamaknows50off to get 50 percent off plus FREE shipping on your first box. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Nina and Emily explore the complexities of setting boundaries in relationships, particularly focusing on family dynamics and the emotional challenges that arise. They discuss the importance of recognizing draining relationships, the cultural influences that shape our boundary-setting behaviors, and practical steps to establish healthier interactions. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-awareness and the courage to prioritize one's own needs while navigating the guilt that often accompanies boundary setting. In this conversation, Nina and Emily delve into the complexities of setting boundaries, particularly in female friendships and family dynamics. They explore the feelings of guilt that often accompany boundary setting and provide strategies for effective communication. The discussion emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and the need to manage one's emotional responses after asserting boundaries. Emily shares practical scripts and techniques for navigating difficult conversations, highlighting the significance of understanding personal values and the impact of emotional maturity in relationships. 00:00: Understanding the Roots of Boundary Issues 02:48: The Importance of Boundary Setting in Relationships 05:58: Identifying Draining Relationships 08:59: Navigating Family Dynamics and Boundaries 12:06: Cultural Influences on Boundary Setting 15:01: Overcoming Guilt in Boundary Setting 18:03: Practical Steps for Setting Boundaries 21:01: Scripts for Boundary Setting in Real Life 22:38: Navigating Guilt in Boundary Setting 26:12: Effective Communication Strategies for Boundaries 29:34: Setting Boundaries with Family Dynamics 37:07: Calming the Nervous System After Setting Boundaries Emily Sanders received her Bachelor’s degree from Life Pacific College in counseling ministry, and received her Master’s of Science degree from Vanguard University of Southern California. Emily has been practicing for over 13 years, and knows from personal experience the courage it takes to walk on the road to healing and self-discovery; she works with compassion to support others on their path to restoration, empowerment, and fulfillment. You can find Emily at emilysanders.com or emily.sanders.therapy on Instagram In her free time Emily can usually be found outside running, hiking, or riding her bicycle along Pacific Coast Highway. She also enjoys browsing Pinterest for new dinner recipes, chatting with her girlfriends, and spending quality time with her family. Episode Sponsor: Build the best summer ever with KiwiCo! Get $15 off on your Summer Adventure Series at kiwico.com/mamaknows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices