Parents of the Year

Are we raising a generation ready for life's challenges—or shielding them too much? Get ready for a lighthearted but real discussion on parenting, childhood resilience, and fostering independence! In this Parents of the Year episode, Caroline shares a news article to explore why today’s parents may not be teaching essential life skills. Through stories from Japan, where deers attack and young kids learn to navigate on their own, to tales of North American parenting, Andrew and Caroline examine what happens when today’s parents overstep in their kids’ lives—going from simple overprotection to raising kids who can struggle with self-sufficiency, emotional regulation, and even good, old-fashioned problem-solving. And, most importantly, why a little struggle might just be the best teacher.    Read the article HEREEnjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline welcome Kimberly Grustas, founder of Good For You Girls, to discuss how parents can navigate the whirlwind of puberty with their kids (starting well before puberty actually starts). Together, they explore the critical role of hormones, how to recognize early signs of puberty, and tips for dads and moms alike to build strong connections during this pivotal time in their children's lives. Kimberly also shares the importance of embracing puberty as a superpower. Don’t miss out on this important episode to help make puberty a positive journey! About KimKim Grustas is the Founder and Owner of Good For You Girls Natural Skin Care – inspiring moms to protect what’s most precious – our girls. For more than 15 years, Kim has been instrumental in the growth of some of the country’s largest nutrition and supplement companies as a graphic designer, creative consultant and marketing adviser. Kim has lived and breathed the natural products industry, for more than 15 years. Most recently, she’s owned and operated an advertising and design agency in Connecticut, working exclusively with companies, which have made a commitment to natural products and services. Get in Touch with KimWebsite: https://www.goodforyougirls.com/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/goodforyougirls IG: https://www.instagram.com/goodforyougirls/Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

In this wild and offbeat episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew, Caroline, and their daughter, Maya dive headfirst into the unpredictable world of parenting. This episode goes all over the place from the art of being an annoyingly loving parent to a deeper conversation about what skills parents should have before taking the plunge. Ever thought about having to train a chicken before becoming a parent? The family hilariously debates whether basic life skills (like lawn maintenance) and the ability to train a chicken should be mandatory for future parents. Join them to get a glimpse of the chaos, humour, and realness of their family life, all while offering some unexpectedly insightful parenting lessons along the way.Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline dive into the all-too-common struggle of over-parenting. From parents attending university orientations to learn how to "manage" their adult children, to navigating the fine line between guiding and helicoptering, they explore how to foster real independence. Along the way, they share practical tips, personal stories, and laugh-out-loud moments—like accidentally turning a child’s work into mom’s handiwork. Tune in to this candid conversation on letting go, supporting from the sidelines, and helping kids build their own lives. Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

Today on Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline chat with environmental health advocate and best-selling author, David Steinman, to discuss the hidden chemical toxins lurking in everyday products. David, author of Raising Healthy Kids: How to Protect Your Children from the Hidden Chemical Toxins in Our Everyday Lives, shares startling findings from tests on major brands that reveal alarming levels of chemical toxins and pesticides in products such as bubble baths, cereal, cleaning products, snack food, and beauty products.Tune in to learn:Ø  The severe consequences of chemical toxins on pregnant women, babies, and children.Ø  Practical advice on how to protect your family from harmful substances.Ø  Affordable and safe alternatives to commonly used toxic products.David’s mission to raise awareness about environmental dangers is crucial for every parent striving to create a safe and healthy home environment. Don't miss this vital conversation that could significantly impact your family's health and well-being.Get in touch with David:http://www.healthylivingmagazine.us https://davidwilliamsteinman.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-steinman-345ba775/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/bydavidsteinman Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/davidwsteinman Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidsteinman_author/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DavidSteinman2012 Book: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1510774394/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline chat about the challenges of fostering cooperation and independence in kids without turning every request into a battle. From navigating the chaos of messy bedrooms to managing shared spaces, they share real-life stories and practical tips on getting kids to contribute around the house—without the constant nagging. Tune in for a candid conversation about family dynamics, cooperation, and maybe even a little chocolate! Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline welcome special guest Sofia Fortin, founder of The Happy Vee Project, to discuss the complexities of maintaining intimacy after having kids. Sofia, a certified sex coach, and educator, shares her expertise on helping couples reignite their connection amidst the chaos of parenting.Discover:The four key domains affecting post-baby libidoPractical strategies to overcome low libido and mismatched sex drives.The importance of nervous system support and how to manage stress for better intimacy.Techniques like the 3-Minute Game to enhance communication and consent between partners.Tips for scheduling "naked, sexy fun time" to create a pressure-free, intimate environment.Whether you're struggling with exhaustion, stress, or just looking for ways to reconnect with your partner, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice to keep the spark alive in your relationship. Don't miss this candid and informative discussion that promises to transform your intimate life.About SofiaSofia Ashley is the founder of the Happy Vagina Project. She is a certified sex coach and educator with over 10 years of experience teaching adults, teens and tots about sex and she is your totally TMI buddy who has been giving sex advice since high school. She is a mom and stepmom living in a neurospicy household and a blended family just trying to keep her libido alive in this busy world while parenting three kiddos.  ResourcesBest book recommend: Come as You Are by Emily NagoskiSex After Kids Libido Roadmap Assessment - https://sunny-maker-5947.ck.page/d84232e48b Light Your Fire Five Day Challenge - https://sunny-maker-5947.ck.page/9dbc63f7daGet in touch:www.thehappyvaginaproject.com or Instagram@thehappyvprojectEnjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

Join Andrew and Caroline for a hilarious and thought-provoking episode of Parents of the Year as they tackle parenting in today’s world inspired by an old-world lens. Join them as they deep dive into how modern parenting compares with ancient, hands-off approaches and challenge the overparenting trap many fall into today. Discover why boredom is a critical skill for kids, why tracking your kids might be doing more harm than good, and how letting children explore their independence builds resilience. This episode is a perfect mix of laughter, insights, and practical parenting tips that will leave you rethinking how you raise your kids.Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

Today on Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline discuss the raw and transformative journey of Rob Rohde, a single father of five daughters, as he navigates the challenges of parenthood, from overcoming the deep sense of failure to becoming an empowered, present dad. In this episode, Rob talks about the importance of truly connecting with your children, the hard lessons learned from trying to balance it all, and how to rise above the chaos to be the best parent you can be. Join us as we jump into the real stories behind fatherhood, the importance of quantity time, and the delicate balance of co-parenting after separation. About RobThe force behind The Business of Being Dad podcast, Rob Rohde is a single father coach and a leading voice in transformative fatherhood. With a robust background in pediatric healthcare spanning 25 years and an MS in Management and Leadership, Rob navigated profound personal challenges to become a trusted coach for single fathers.As the visionary behind the Single Father Mastery coaching program, Rob shares profound insights on fatherhood, leadership, and legacy. Join him on podcasts or shows as he draws from his transformative journey, offering a practical framework for single fathers to overcome challenges, gain clarity, and build life-changing relationships with their kids.Connect with Rob on LinkedInLearn more about Rob at robrohde.comListen to Rob on The Business of Being Dad podcastGet a customized plan to FAST TRACK your progress hereEnjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

Today on Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline jump into Part 2 of why over-focusing on children’s emotions might do more harm than good. From encouraging resilience through a coach-like approach to sharing personal stories of parenting challenges, they discuss practical strategies for helping kids navigate life’s ups and downs without being overwhelmed by their feelings. Tune in for another insightful conversation on fostering independence and emotional strength in your children.Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

Today on Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline explore how an overemphasis on children’s feelings might be doing more harm than good. While it’s crucial to acknowledge and respect our kids' feelings, constantly focusing on their emotional states can inadvertently lead to dependency and a lack of resilience. Join us as we unpack the potential pitfalls of emotion-centric parenting in part one of this series and discuss why stepping back and letting kids navigate their feelings independently might be the key to raising more capable, confident adults.Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

Is Parenting Bad for Your Health? The Surgeon General Thinks So—Do You?Parenting isn’t just tough—it’s exhausting, and the Surgeon General’s latest report confirms it’s taking a serious toll on our health. In this episode, we dive into the daily challenges parents face, from stress to sleep deprivation, and explore the simple yet powerful ways we can reclaim our well-being. Learn from our ancient ancestors Listen in to see what we can learn from early homo sapiens about finding ourselves and creating meaningful connections—even during the busiest times.PS Caroline is more of a break-dancing expert than Andrew... from experience.Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

This week on Parents on the Year, we recast another of Carline’s important Overpowering Emotions episodes focusing on managing back-to-school worries and equipping children for a smooth and confident transition. As the new school year approaches, it's natural for children to experience a mix of excitement and apprehension. Parents often face challenges in helping their kids navigate this time of change, which is why we're here to share practical strategies to overcome these challenges and empower children for success.Join Caroline as she explores effective ways to address the worries that creep in while nurturing a supportive environment that encourages open communication and emotional well-being. We'll build a toolkit of resilience for our children, so they embrace the new school year with excitement and enthusiasm.Ensure all children embark on this back-to-school journey with a strong foundation of support, love, and readiness to thrive.Don't forget to check out our comprehensive guides to optimize back-to-school success:Conquering back-to-school anxiety! https://bit.ly/conquerbacktoschoolanxietyBack-to-school success:  https://bit.ly/backtoschoolsuccess2024Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

Today on Parents of the Yea, Andrew and Caroline welcome special guest Stephanie Elliston to share her expertise on developing resilience, a crucial skill for both parents and children in today's ever-changing world.Discover practical strategies to build your resilience muscle, navigate through life's challenges, and foster a positive mindset. Stephanie breaks down the stages of resilience and provides actionable steps to help parents support their children through difficult transitions, from minor setbacks to significant life changes. Learn the importance of gratitude, self-awareness, and proactive planning in building resilience. This episode is packed with valuable insights and tools to help parents and their children thrive, even in the face of adversity.Whether you're dealing with everyday stressors or major life events, this episode offers guidance and inspiration to help you and your family become more resilient. Don't miss out on this essential conversation that can transform your approach to parenting and personal growth.Tune in to gain the knowledge and confidence needed to build a resilient, supportive, and loving family environment.About StephanieStephanie is a Certified Professional Coach and the owner of The Steady Elevation; pairing with businesses and individuals to elevate their potential. She is a self-awareness speaker, DISC practitioner, and core energy coach with intentions of increasing confidence towards the desired outcomes. She is trained to remove the blocks and influences that prevent people from reaching their highest elevation.Get in Touch!Website: www.thesteadyelevation.com Instagram: Stephanie Elliston, CPC (@thesteadyelevation) Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanieelliston/ Book A Call: https://thesteadyelevation.com/book-a-callEnjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

Get ready to kickstart the new school year with ease and confidence, parents! 📚✨ We’re bringing back one of our most popular episodes from Caroline’s Overpowering Emotions podcast, and trust us, it’s a gem! 💎In this episode, Caroline shares a treasure trove of tips and strategies to ensure a smooth back-to-school transition for your kids. From establishing solid routines to tackling back-to-school anxiety head-on, we’ve got everything you need to make this year’s transition a breeze. And check out these must-have resources:Critical routines your children need to develop: https://korupsychology.ca/essential-routines-for-success-and-well-being/Conquering back-to-school anxiety: https://bit.ly/conquerbacktoschoolanxietyBack-to-school success:  https://bit.ly/backtoschoolsuccess2024Tune in and get ready to conquer the new school year with a smile!   Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

In this engaging episode of the Parents of the Year podcast, join Andrew and Caroline with special guest Angela Smith as they explore how compassion, connection, and self-love can transform your journey as a parent.  Discover practical strategies for building emotional resilience in children, the importance of self-care for parents, and the profound impact of reading together as a family. Angela's approach emphasizes the power of compassion, mindfulness, and daily rituals in creating a nurturing and supportive environment for both parents and children.Don't miss out on the valuable tools and reflections to help you navigate the complexities of parenting with empathy and grace. Tune in to learn how small acts of kindness and connection can make a significant difference in your child's life and your own.About Angela SmithAt her core, Angela is a nurturer and a healer, and she brings those traits to her coaching and massage work and to the books that she writes - always with a focus on wellness and wanting to uplift and inspire others to live their best lives and to love themselves just that little bit more, adults and children.Angela has published six children's books and two motivational books for adults both available on Amazon and from her True Potential website.You can check out some reviews of her books here:Stepping into LoveI am Me Unique & FreeAnd, here is access to a calming meditation she recorded: https://youtu.be/wIOI1VZ-4k4Get in Touch!Website: www.truepotential.co.nzIG: https://www.instagram.com/angelamsmith.author/FB: https://www.facebook.com/angelamsmith.authorEnjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

Boredom-busting is back on the agenda, parents! 🥳 This week on Parents of the Year, we're replaying an episode that's just as relevant this summer. Ever heard your kids whine, "I'm bored!"? Well, we've got the perfect remedy for that! Boredom is not just a nuisance; it’s a golden opportunity for your kids to grow, develop, and discover new passions.  In this episode, we’ll show you how to turn those "blah" moments into bursts of creativity, resilience, and problem-solving adventures. From creating a boredom buster jar to setting up arts and crafts corners, we've got tons of fun ideas to keep those little minds engaged.Plus, we’ll discuss the tricky balance of screen time vs. real-world activities. Spoiler alert: It’s all about finding that sweet spot! 🍭So, if you’re ready to transform boredom into brilliance, tune in now, and let’s make this summer the most imaginative one yet!Be sure to also check out Caroline's article on Embracing Boredom: https://korupsychology.ca/embracing-boredom-helping-kids-manage-and-thrive/ Want more? Check out these additional resources:200 Activity Ideas for your Boredom Buster Jar: https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/boredom-buster/ 20 Experiences to Build Kids Resilience: https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/20-experiences-to-build-resilience/  Managing Screentime: https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/too-much-screen-time-tips-to-limit-and-manage-screen-time/ Bonus Back-to-School Resources: Check out Caroline's ultimate guides to:Conquering back-to-school anxiety! https://bit.ly/conquerbacktoschoolanxietyBack-to-school success:  https://bit.ly/backtoschoolsuccess2024Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

Get ready to conquer those summer fears and dive into new adventures with your kids with this summer replay! 🌞💪 This week on Parents of the Year, Andrew and Caroline are back with an episode that's just as relevant this summer as ever. Overcoming fears and embracing new challenges can be a bit scary for our little (and not-so-little) ones. But stepping out of their comfort zones is crucial for building the confidence and resilience they'll need when school starts back up and beyond. 📚🚀Join us as we share practical ideas and strategies to gently nudge your kids into exploring new experiences this summer. From trying new activities to facing their fears head-on, we’ve got tips that will help them grow and discover their full potential.Tune in and get inspired to create a summer filled with growth, discovery, and unforgettable memories. Let’s help our kids unlock their full potential and embark on an exciting journey of personal growth and self-discovery. 🌟✨Bonus: Check out Caroline's ultimate guide to Conquering Back-to-School Anxiety! (https://bit.ly/conquerbacktoschoolanxiety)Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

Summer’s back, and so is the pressure to keep our kids busy, busy, busy! 🏃‍♂️🏃‍♀️ Join Andrew and Caroline in this eye-opening episode of Parents of the Year, where we kick off our summer success series by tackling the age-old myth that more activities equal happier, more successful kids.Ever feel like you’re drowning in a sea of schedules and activities? You’re not alone! But guess what? There’s a better way. We’re here to help you shake off those worries and embrace the magic of unstructured play and downtime. 🌟Discover why overscheduling can do more harm than good and how letting kids just be kids can lead to priceless life lessons and pure summer joy. It’s time to challenge societal expectations, simplify our lives, and reconnect with the true essence of childhood. 🌞Get ready for a refreshing conversation that will have you rethinking how much you are keeping your kids busy. Let’s make this summer about laughter, memories, and genuine connection. Tune in, relax, and let your kids enjoy the freedom of being kids!And don’t forget to check out our SUMMER GUIDE packed with practical tips for a fantastic summer. (https://bit.ly/bestsummerever2024) AND looking for tips to get kids off screens? Check out this article: https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/too-much-screen-time-tips-to-limit-and-manage-screen-time/Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526

The sun is shining, temperatures are rising, and parents everywhere are wondering how to keep their sanity intact. Today on Parents of the Year, we re-address the ultimate summertime challenge: balancing structure and freedom! Join Andrew and Caroline as they discuss the dance of keeping your kids happy and engaged while maintaining a sense of routine. Discover why structure is crucial even during the lazy days of summer and how to sprinkle in spontaneity without losing your grip.  Plus, we highlight the magic of open communication and involving your kids in planning their summer days. Empower them with life skills like responsibility, time management, and compromise, all while having a blast!Don’t miss this 🎉 Summer Series Replay! 🎉If you're ready to master the art of summer parenting and make this the best summer ever, tune in! And don’t forget to check out our SUMMER GUIDE packed with practical tips for a fantastic summer. (https://bit.ly/bestsummerever2024)Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community! Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions! Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526