Emotions With Ease

Tools That Help Parents And Kids Move Through Big Behaviors And Emotions With Ease So They Can Feel Calm, Confident And Connected.

Episode 42: Fun, Burnout and Balance for Moms (An Interview with Megan Caldwell) 05/05/2026

Episode 41 Game Film Parenting: Fix Meltdowns at the Root 04/28/2026

Episode 40: Turn Parenting Mistakes Into Calmer Wins 04/21/2026

Episode 39: What to do After a Child Meltdown 04/14/2026

Episode 38: Why Moms Yell- The Nervous System Explained 04/07/2026

Episode 37: Helping Kids Through Grief and Big Feelings 03/31/2026

Episode 36: Why Moms Feel Alone in Parenting (And What Helps) 03/24/2026

Episode 35: What Does a School Counselor Do for Students? 03/17/2026

Episode 34: When You Hear Your Parent’s Voice Come Out of Your Mouth 03/10/2026

Episode 33: Meredith Miller on Raising Kids Who Love Scripture (Without Forcing It) 03/03/2026

Episode 32: The Village- Why Moms Need Real Community 02/24/2026

Episode 31: What I’d Tell a Mom in the Middle of a Meltdown (From a Mom of Six) 02/17/2026

Episode 30: What to Say When You’re Stuck in the Same Fight 02/10/2026

Episode 29: After-School Meltdowns - How to Help Kids Regulate From Pickup to Dinner time 02/03/2026

Episode 29: After-School Meltdowns - How to Help Kids Regulate From Pickup to Dinner time If weeknights feel like one long meltdown—from the car ride home to bedtime—you’re not alone. In this episode of Emotions with Ease, emotional wellness coach Jami Glenn sits down with Kristin Harrington, occupational therapist and mom of two, to talk through practical, body-based tools to help kids regulate after school—without shame, power struggles, or unrealistic expectations. 👉 New here? Grab my ⏱ Timestamps 0:00 – Welcome + why after-school regulation matters 3:00 – Why kids fall apart after school 6:30 – What to do right at pickup (car tools that help) 10:45 – Sensory buckets explained (overflowing vs. empty) 14:30 – Movement ideas to release after-school energy 18:30 – Indoor movement when you can’t get outside 22:30 – Dinner time strategies (choices + connection) 26:30 – Nighttime tools to calm the nervous system 29:30 – Kristin’s personal regulation tool + wrap-up 🧠 What You’ll Learn Why kids often unravel after school (even on “good” days) How to support regulation in the car, at home, and at bedtime What a “sensory bucket” is and why it matters Why movement before calm activities is key How connection helps the nervous system settle 🚗 Right-After-School Tools (Car + Pickup) Have something ready before pickup (snack, fidget) Music (sing or sit quietly—both count) High / Low / Buffalo game (parent joins in) Respect personality: some kids need to talk, others need silence 🧺 At-Home Regulation: What to Ask Yourself Is my child’s sensory bucket overflowing or empty? Do they need movement or quiet connection? Have they eaten yet? (Chewy snacks help many kids regulate.) 🏃‍♂️ Movement Ideas That Actually Help Outside (when possible): Playground time Ball play (catch, soccer, basketball) Bikes, scooters, chalk, barefoot time Inside: Jumping, crawling, rolling in a blanket Nugget couch play Obstacle courses Heavy work (pushing, pulling, carrying) ✨ Tip: Add structure (“10 jumps” vs. “go play”) to avoid overstimulation. 🍽 Dinner Time Support Offer choices (“With me or alone?”) Let kids help when possible Create a calm space if they need distance Sit together when you can—connection regulates 🌙 Nighttime Tools to Calm the Body Deep pressure (hugs, squeezes, pillow sandwich) Rocking or gentle movement Sensory bins, Play-Doh, coloring Stretching, yoga, calming music Consistent routine (same order every night) 💛 A Gentle Reminder After-school meltdowns aren’t bad behavior. They’re a nervous system asking for support. Small, proactive tools—used consistently—can change the entire rhythm of your evenings. 🎧 Want Support? If you’re listening and thinking, “I want help applying this in my home,” you can book a using the link in the show notes. We’ll talk it through and see what feels supportive for your family. I’m rooting for you. /episode/index/show/570d2ae8-dd26-4bba-a139-b0c5efd66a38/id/39791920

Episode 28: Why Logic Doesn't Work During Meltdowns (and what to do instead) 01/27/2026

Episode 28: Why Logic Doesn't Work During Meltdowns (and what to do instead) If you’ve ever tried to explain your way out of a meltdown and watched it get worse… this episode is for you. In this episode of Emotions with Ease, emotional wellness coach Jami Glenn explains why logic doesn’t land during meltdowns, what’s actually happening in your child’s brain and body, and how to bring calm back online using one simple tool, one tip, and one script you can use right away. 👉 New here? Grab my . ⏱ Timestamps 0:00 – Welcome + what this episode covers 2:30 – Why explaining makes meltdowns worse 5:45 – What’s happening in the brain during a meltdown 9:20 – Why logic can’t land when Wise Owl is offline 12:30 – The “Soothe First, Talk Later” tool 16:30 – Fewer words, more calm (the biggest shift for parents) 20:45 – Scripts to use during meltdowns 25:10 – Common mistakes (no shame) 27:30 – Encouragement + next steps 🧠 What You’ll Learn Why meltdowns are body-first, not behavior-first What happens when the Watchdog brain takes over Why logic and lectures don’t work during dysregulation How calm opens the door for learning What to say instead of explaining or arguing 🧰 One Tool: Soothe First, Talk Later When emotions are high: Soothe the body (breathe, soften, lower your voice) Connect (“I’m right here.”) Talk later — once calm returns You can’t teach a skill to a brain in survival mode. 💡 One Tip to Remember Shorten your words. Lengthen your presence. If your child is losing it: Talk less Stay close Let your calm do the work Your regulated body becomes the calm their brain borrows. 🗣 One Script to Try “We’ll talk when your Wise Owl is back. I’m here.” Other options: “Let’s help your body first.” “Your brain needs a break to get calm.” 💛 Encouragement Your child isn’t giving you a hard time — their brain is having a hard time. Regulation isn’t permissive. It’s what makes learning possible. Calm first. Teaching later. 🎧 Want Support? If you want help applying this in your home, you can book a using the link in the show notes. We’ll talk it through and see what feels supportive for your family. I’m rooting for you. 💛 /episode/index/show/570d2ae8-dd26-4bba-a139-b0c5efd66a38/id/39791900

Episode 27: The Wise Owl Brain and Your Child: Tools for Calmer Days and Fewer Power Struggles 01/20/2026

Episode 26: January Reset for Moms- Regulating Before Reacting 01/13/2026

Episode 25: What Actually Helps Kids Move Through Big Emotions (According to a Real Kid) 01/05/2026

Episode 24: A Simple Family Gratitude Practice That Actually Works (And Why We’re Bringing It Back in 2026) 12/29/2025

Episode 24: A Simple Family Gratitude Practice That Actually Works (And Why We’re Bringing It Back in 2026) As the new year approaches, many families start asking the same questions: What do we want more of? What do we want less of? And how do we actually make that happen without adding one more thing to our already-full plates? In today’s short and practical episode, Jami shares one simple gratitude practice her family is intentionally adding back into their emotional wellness toolbox in 2026—and why this version of gratitude actually works. (And no, this is not the “be thankful and stop crying” kind of gratitude. We don’t do emotional bypassing around here.) You’ll hear how to build gratitude into your existing family rhythms, why it helps calm the nervous system, and how it supports emotional regulation, connection, and healthier brain patterns—for kids and parents. Resources Mentioned: ⏱️ Episode Timestamps & Highlights 0:09 – Why this conversation matters right now Looking ahead to the new year: what to add, what to take away, and why small rhythms matter more than big resolutions. 2:15 – The gratitude myth (and what gratitude is not) Why gratitude sometimes gets a bad rap—and how “just focus on the good” can actually backfire. 4:05 – The family gratitude practice we used (and loved) A simple, three-minute journaling rhythm plugged into bedtime—no pressure, no forcing, no homework vibes. 7:10 – Why modeling matters more than making it mandatory How this practice was “caught, not taught,” and why that made all the difference. 10:45 – What happened when life got hard Why the practice fell away during a tough season—and why we’re intentionally bringing it back. 13:30 – The science behind gratitude (the parts that actually matter) How gratitude: calms the nervous system lowers stress hormones increases emotional regulation interrupts negativity bias 18:40 – Gratitude and emotional language How this practice builds emotional awareness, vocabulary, and quicker regulation in hard moments. 22:15 – Teaching kids “both/and” thinking Why gratitude helps kids hold mixed emotions without black-and-white thinking. 25:40 – Gratitude strengthens connection How shared gratitude increases bonding, safety, and predictable moments of connection. 28:00 – The two questions every family can ask for the new year You don’t need a full planning system—just one clear question and one doable rhythm. 🧠 Key Takeaways Gratitude is a skill, not a personality trait You don’t need more time—just a better rhythm Gratitude works best when it’s optional, modeled, and low-pressure It helps calm the nervous system without dismissing hard emotions Small, consistent practices create long-term emotional resilience 🌱 A Simple Question to Try This Week Ask yourself (or your family): What do we want more of in 2026? What’s one small rhythm that could support that? And on the flip side: What do we want less of? What needs to come off the calendar—or out of our language—to make space? 💛 Want More Support Like This? If conversations like this resonate with you, you’ll love the Same Page Parenting Workshop—where we help families get aligned, clear, and calm using practical tools and shared language. 👉 Stay tuned for the next workshop date 👉 Or email me at and tell me: what you’re adding to your year or what you’re ready to let go of I’d love to hear from you. /episode/index/show/570d2ae8-dd26-4bba-a139-b0c5efd66a38/id/39544475

Episode 23: Emotional Regulation Tools for Kids (When You’re Stuck Inside) 12/22/2025

Episode 23: Emotional Regulation Tools for Kids (When You’re Stuck Inside) Christmas break is magical… and also a lot. Cold weather, packed schedules, sibling conflict, and nowhere to burn off energy can turn emotions big fast. In this short, cozy episode of Emotions with Ease, I’m joined by a very special guest — our daughter— to share real, kid-approved tools for emotional regulation when going outside isn’t an option. These are simple, practical strategies we actually use in our home to help kids move through big feelings and return to calm — without yelling, screens as the only solution, or pretending emotions don’t exist. Resources Mentioned: from Counselor Keri ⏱️ Episode Timestamps & Highlights 2:00 – Why Going Outside Helps Regulate Emotions Movement matters — but what happens when you’re stuck inside? 4:00 – Tool #1: The ABC Grounding Game Naming things you can see from A to Z to calm anxiety and refocus the brain. 6:30 – Tool #2: The Mindful Minute (5-4-3-2-1 Senses) Using the five senses to come back to the present moment. 9:00 – Tool #3: Deep Belly Breathing + Cuddling Co-regulation, connection, and calming the Watchdog brain. 12:00 – Tool #4: Dance It Out Why blasting music (yes, even Adele) helps release emotional energy. 14:30 – Bonus Idea: “The Floor Is Lava” Creative movement that gets wiggles out without leaving the house. 16:00 – Encouragement for Parents You don’t need perfect days — you just need tools. 🧰 Emotional Regulation Tools Shared in This Episode 🧠 ABC Grounding Game Name something you see starting with A, then B, then C… Helps shift the brain out of anxiety and back into the present moment 👀 Mindful Minute (5-4-3-2-1) 5 things you see 4 things you hear 3 things you smell 2 things you touch 1 thing you taste 💛 Deep Belly Breathing + Cuddling with a Co-Regulator (aka- parent) Hand on heart or belly Slow breaths from the diaphragm Co-regulation calms the amygdala (aka the Watchdog brain) 🎶 Dance Breaks Crank up Siri Choose one song per person Big movement helps release emotional energy fast 🛋️ Creative Movement Indoors Pillows on the floor “The Floor Is Lava” Jumping, balancing, laughing = regulation 🌱 Key Takeaways for Parents Emotional regulation doesn’t stop during winter — it just needs creativity Body movement is one of the fastest ways to calm big emotions Co-regulation (your calm helping their calm) matters deeply You don’t need more discipline — you need more tools Kids can learn to name and use tools when they’re taught in calm moments 💬 A Gentle Reminder Big emotions don’t mean you’re doing something wrong. They mean your child’s nervous system needs support. And the good news? You already have what you need — tools, connection, and presence. If this episode was helpful: Share it with another parent navigating Christmas break Save it for the next rainy or freezing day Try one tool this week — that’s enough And if you want more tools like these, head to my for workshops, courses, and family-friendly emotional wellness resources. Rooting for you — and wishing you a cozy, regulated holiday season. 🎄💛 /episode/index/show/570d2ae8-dd26-4bba-a139-b0c5efd66a38/id/39491775

Episode 22 Spiritual Formation for Families (Without the Guilt): Helping Kids Grow in Faith During the Christmas Chaos 12/15/2025

Episode 22 Spiritual Formation for Families (Without the Guilt): Helping Kids Grow in Faith During the Christmas Chaos Christmas is supposed to be meaningful… But sometimes it just feels loud, fast, and one school party away from tears (yours or theirs). In this episode of Emotions with Ease, I’m joined by my dear friend, mentor, and spiritual formation expert Jennifer Freeman to talk about what spiritual formation for families actually looks like in real life—beyond church attendance, Bible reading plans, or adding one more thing to your plate. We talk about integration over perfection, how emotional wellness and faith overlap, and simple, practical ways to help kids experience God as safe, present, and trustworthy—even in seasons of anxiety, grief, and overwhelm. If you’ve ever wondered: Am I doing enough spiritually for my kids? Why doesn’t “just pray about it” seem to help my anxious child? How do I model faith when I feel spiritually dry myself? You’re in the right place. Pull up a chair. 💛 Meet My Guest: Jennifer Freeman Jennifer Freeman is a spiritual mentor, speaker, and longtime leader in Christian formation. She served for 25 years as Director of Christian Formation at College of the Ozarks and is the creator of Rooted Families, a beautifully practical resource designed to help children and caregivers grow together in faith from infancy through college. She brings wisdom, calm, and a whole lot of grace to this conversation—and yes, she once tried to teach me how to cook (we’ll just say… eggs were involved 🥚). Timestamps & Highlights 00:02 – Why Christmas feels meaningful and overwhelming 05:19 – What spiritual formation really is (hint: it’s shaping, not cramming information) 08:38 – Why faith works best when it’s integrated into daily life 12:10 – “You can’t give your kids what you don’t have yourself” 15:33 – Using nature, bedtime, and daily rhythms to point kids back to God 19:38 – Advent, waiting, and helping kids learn patience without lectures 25:22 – Emotional wellness + faith: why big feelings belong with God 31:55 – Bible journaling, art, and body-based ways kids can experience faith 33:27 – When “just pray and memorize a verse” isn’t enough 47:37 – For parents who feel spiritually dry: start with silence (just 3 minutes) 55:40 – Jennifer’s go-to anxiety regulation tool (body + belief together) 58:00 – How to access Rooted Families resources (they’re free!) Key Takeaways for Parents Spiritual formation isn’t an add-on. It’s meant to be woven into everyday life. Kids are shaped more by what they love than what they’re told to believe. Faith needs to be strong and flexible enough to hold questions, doubt, and change. Emotional wellness and spiritual formation are deeply connected. When kids struggle with anxiety or worry, giving them only prayer and memorization can unintentionally create shame. God is not a vending machine—and kids need help understanding His character, not just His rules. Silence (even a few minutes) is one of the most powerful spiritual practices we overlook. Practical Tools You Can Try This Week ✔ Name emotions + bring them to God (nothing is off-limits in prayer) ✔ Use concrete images kids understand: light, bread, nature, waiting ✔ Invite faith conversations with questions, not lectures ✔ Try body-based tools: drawing, painting, movement, sorting objects ✔ Practice micro-silence: in the car, shower, before bed, or while sipping coffee ✔ At bedtime, thank God out loud for your kids—it builds safety and trust Resources Mentioned Rooted Families: Jennifer Freeman: by John Mark Comer (family devotional) by Dan Siegel by Robyn Gobbel If this episode gave you a deep breath, a new perspective, or even just permission to stop striving—share it with a friend who needs the same reminder. ✨ And if you’re craving more practical tools AND my favorite parenting book list, be sure to snag it You don’t need to do this perfectly. You just need roots deep enough to grow. 🌱 /episode/index/show/570d2ae8-dd26-4bba-a139-b0c5efd66a38/id/39398175

Episode 21: How to Find Mom Community: Building Real Friendships & Support in Motherhood 12/08/2025

Episode 21: How to Find Mom Community: Building Real Friendships & Support in Motherhood Motherhood can feel so isolating… even when you technically “have friends.” In this episode of Emotions with Ease, I sit down with my friend Christina Carpenter—coach, conference host, community-builder, and all-around connector of women—to talk about what real, life-giving mom community actually looks like (and how to find it without adding more guilt to your plate). We talk about: Why some friendships still feel lonely How to define what you want from community What to do if your “well feels dry” and you’re starting from empty How to show up for struggling friends in ways that actually help The power of being seen, validated, and invited in We also chat about Bloom & Blossom’s Evergreen Retreat (where I’ll be speaking! 🙋‍♀️), book club, crunchy Christmas events, and super practical ways to get yourself in the room with other moms—even if you’re exhausted, introverted, or brand new. This episode is your gentle nudge: you’re not meant to do this alone. 🌱 Key Takeaways Community is emotional regulation. We aren’t meant to process motherhood, grief, overwhelm, and decisions alone. Being seen and validated is deeply regulating. You get to define what community looks like for you. A monthly book club, one deep friend, a small group, retreat weekends—there’s no “right” version. Managing expectations protects your friendships. Be honest about your capacity. Be clear about how often you can talk, meet, or text back—and give the same grace to others. Love languages work for friendships too. Some friends need words, some need quality time, some need gifts or acts of service. Use that lens to support them when they’re struggling. You may need to dig the well before you’re thirsty. Investing in community when things are “fine” means you have relational equity when life hits hard. If you can’t find your people in an existing space… you might be the one to create it. A simple book club, park meetup, or small group can grow into something beautiful. 🔔 Take One Brave Step Toward Community If your heart is whispering, “I’m lonely” or “I want that,” this is your invitation: 1️⃣ Join Christina’s Community Find her on Facebook & Instagram: Authentic Joy in the Journey Bloom and Blossom Conference / Bloom & Blossom community group Look for book club announcements and local gatherings. 2️⃣ Grab Your Ticket to the Evergreen Retreat Want a whole weekend to breathe, reset, and connect with other moms? Christina’s Evergreen Retreat (Bloom & Blossom Conference) is coming up—and I’ll be speaking there! 👉 Go to and look for the Evergreen Retreat to grab your ticket. 3️⃣ Share This Episode With a Mom Friend If someone came to mind while you were reading this, send her the episode and simply say: “Hey, I’d love to be more intentional about community with you.” You’re not behind. You’re not too late. You are worthy of support, friendship, and a community that says, “I see you.” 💛 /episode/index/show/570d2ae8-dd26-4bba-a139-b0c5efd66a38/id/39318575

Episode 20: Create Family Values to Keep the Peace at Home 12/01/2025

Episode 20: Create Family Values to Keep the Peace at Home If you’re tired of feeling out of sync—different expectations, different discipline styles, different priorities—this is your moment. Join us for the , our last workshop of the year. ✨ Grab the free for calm mornings and confident kids! Come hang out with me on Instagram for more tools like this! Ever look up and think, “How did we get here?” That, my friend, is called missional drift—and every family experiences it when life gets busy, schedules get wild, and you’re parenting on autopilot. In today’s episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of how Justin and I create our Family Values Method—the exact process we use every year during our end-of-year reflection getaway (yes, two nerds and a hotel room… but make it meaningful). I’ll walk you through:✔️ Why every family needs clearly defined values✔️ How values keep your home grounded during chaos✔️ Our 7 Glenn Family Values (and the daily moments that shaped them)✔️ How these values guide discipline, decisions, and sibling dynamics✔️ How to create your own list in a way that’s simple, fun, and actually works And if you’ve been feeling a little out of sync with your co-parent lately, this episode is your warm nudge toward clarity, connection, and (finally) getting on the same page. ⏱️ Timestamps & Episode Highlights 0:00 – Why We Started an End-of-Year Planning Tradition Renting a hotel room, ditching the distractions, and creating a marriage/family game plan. 1:54 – The Method Behind Our Same Page Parenting Workshop How our yearly reflection routine turned into a workshop we now teach to other parents. 3:12 – Why Families Need Values Just Like Businesses Do Understanding family culture; avoiding missional drift; how daily decisions shape long-term direction. 5:40 – What “Missional Drift” Really Means The small, everyday misalignments that pull families off track—and how values bring you back. 7:05 – How We Ask the Big “Culture Questions” What do we want our home to feel like? What do we want our kids’ friends to say about being in our home? 9:00 – Our 7 Glenn Family Values (Deep Dive + Real-Life Examples) Clear Is Kind (thanks, Brené Brown) Eat the Frog (hello, Mark Twain + math homework) Life or Death (the power of our words) Open Hands (flexibility + generosity) Lead With Gratitude (especially at dinnertime) Same Team (the phrase we use constantly) Make Your Circle Bigger (kindness, inclusion, and raising good humans) 20:17 – How These Values Shape Daily Decisions From chores to friendships to tone of voice—values become the go-to coaching tool. 23:05 – Why These Values Haven’t Changed (Even Though They Could) Reevaluating yearly; keeping them meaningful rather than decorative. 26:10 – What It Looks Like to Create Your Own Family Values Getting granular, choosing values that matter, and including every family member. 28:55 – Want Help Creating Your Family Values? Join the Same Page Parenting Workshop A quick overview of what you’ll walk away with in just two hours. 🌱 Key Takeaways Every family has a culture—values just make it intentional. Without clear values, families drift toward habits, stress responses, and default patterns. Values keep the “train on the tracks.” They guide daily decisions, relationship repairs, discipline strategies, and the tone of your home. Kids rise to the values they help create. When children participate in choosing the values, they take ownership of them. Your values don’t have to be fancy—they just have to be real. “Eat the Frog” and “Same Team” are two of ours, and they work beautifully. Reviewing values yearly helps prevent misalignment. Life changes, kids grow, and your values can grow with your family. 💛 Ready to Get on the Same Page With Your Co-Parent? If you’re tired of feeling out of sync—different expectations, different discipline styles, different priorities—this is your moment. Join us for the , our last workshop of the year. What you’ll get in two hours: A clear list of family values unique to your home A simple yearly planning method (the one Justin and I swear by) Alignment in discipline, expectations, communication, and routines Practical tools you can use immediately A sense of calm, clarity, and “we’re actually doing this together” 👉 Snag your seat here (insert link) Two hours. Two seats (you + your co-parent). $60 total. Clarity + connection = totally worth it. /episode/index/show/570d2ae8-dd26-4bba-a139-b0c5efd66a38/id/39217240

Episode 19: Will vs Skill: The Parenting Mindset Shift That Changes Everything 11/24/2025

Episode 19: Will vs Skill: The Parenting Mindset Shift That Changes Everything Will vs Skill: The Parenting Mindset Shift That Changes Everything And if worry is a frequent guest at your house, don’t forget to grab my . It’s 10 days of quick, practical tools to help your whole family live with more ease and less anxiety—straight to your inbox. Episode Introduction Ever catch yourself thinking, “My kid is just being lazy / rude / defiant”… and then immediately feel your chest tighten and your tone get sharp? In this episode of Emotions with Ease, I’m unpacking one of my all-time favorite parenting mindset shifts: Will vs Skill. It’s a simple question that can totally change how you see your child’s behavior and how you respond to it: Is this a will issue (they won’t)… or a skill issue (they can’t yet)? I’ll walk you through real-life examples (homework battles, sass, messes, and even kid-sized lying), and show you how shifting from “They won’t” to “They don’t know how… yet” gives you clear next steps, more compassion, and way less shame—for both of you. ⏱️ Timestamps & Highlights 0:02 – Welcome & Why This Mindset Shift Matters Introduction to the Will vs Skill concept How Jami first learned it at a TBRI conference as a school counselor The moment she thought, “Oh… this changes everything” 1:18 – Will vs Skill: What Are We Talking About? The difference between: Will issue → won’t do it Skill issue → can’t yet do it Why this is both a mindset shift and a paradigm shift for parents How this tool can disrupt cycles of anger, frustration, and power struggles 2:38 – When We Assume It’s “Will”: Where We Get Stuck Common parent thoughts: “She’s just being lazy.” “He’s so disrespectful.” “She’s doing this just to annoy me.” How our bodies react: Tight chest Sharper tone “Battle of control” spiral Why “They’re just lazy/defiant” leaves you with no helpful next step 3:51 – The Shift: What If It’s Actually a Skill Issue? Reframing: “They can’t yet” instead of “They won’t” Possible missing skills: Self-regulation Motivation Organization Communication Empathy Why skill issues always offer a next step (teach, model, practice) 5:25 – The Bike-Riding Analogy You’d never say, “My kid just doesn’t want to balance.” You’d notice: they need help, guidance, and practice Applying that same compassion to emotional and behavioral skills 6:40 – Real-Life Example #1: The 12-Year-Old Who Won’t Do Homework Will lens: “He’s lazy.” “He doesn’t care about school.” “He’s unmotivated.” Next step = grounding, screens removed, lots of control + lectures Skill lens: Maybe it’s organization (tornado backpack, no systems) Maybe it’s time management (no plan for time after practice) Maybe it’s confusion (he actually needs a tutor) How assuming “skill” opens up better questions and more helpful support 8:54 – Real-Life Example #2: The 8-Year-Old With Attitude Directive: “Hey babe, it’s time to feed the dog.” Response: eye roll, “You feed the dog.” Will lens: “She’s rude. She’s disrespectful.” → no real next step Skill lens: She might be missing the skill of expressing disagreement respectfully She may be overwhelmed with too many directives at once Practical coaching script: “I’d like your tone to match my tone.” Giving her exact words to use instead (“Mom, can you give me one thing at a time?”) 12:49 – Real-Life Example #3: “My Kid Never Cleans Up Unless I Nag” Parent story: “I always have to tell him five times.” Will lens: He’s lazy. He doesn’t care. Skill lens: Missing executive functioning skills (sequencing, planning) Missing time awareness Needs help with transitions (e.g., 60-second warnings before cleanup) How to scaffold and build these skills instead of just nagging 14:43 – You Won’t Nail It Every Time (And That’s Okay) Sometimes you’ll guess the wrong skill—no big deal You adjust, try another angle, and keep problem-solving Parenting as a puzzle without the picture on the box Bringing your kid into the conversation: “I know you’re not lazy. I see you on the soccer field.” “What skill do you think might be missing here?” 16:45 – Why This Removes Shame (and Why That Matters) Labeling kids as “lazy” or “defiant” creates shame, not motivation Shame sits at the lowest emotional frequency and shuts kids down Seeing behavior as a skill gap turns it into: A problem we solve together A chance to build confidence and competence 17:53 – Brain Science Moment: Wise Owl Brain & Regulation When kids are dysregulated (angry, overwhelmed, shut down), their Wise Owl brain (prefrontal cortex) goes offline In those moments, they literally cannot access their best skills Order of operations: Regulate first (co-regulate with them) Teach the skill later once they’re calm 19:12 – Real-Life Example #4: The “Tiny Lie” and the Redo Jami’s story of her child adding details to a story that didn’t happen The fork in the road: “She’s a liar” (will) → shame spiral + power struggle “This is a skill issue” → opportunity to practice truth-telling The powerful tool of a redo: Offering a do-over Re-enacting the conversation Celebrating: “You are a truth-teller.” 23:52 – Weekly Tool: Your New Go-To Question When frustration hits, ask: 👉 “Is this a will issue or a skill issue?” Then assume skill so you can: Find a clear next step Teach, model, and practice with your child Remove shame from the equation Reminder: wait until their Wise Owl brain is back online before teaching 25:25 – Wrap-Up & Encouragement Will vs Skill helps you: Parent with more ease Lead with grace and compassion Still hold your family values This tool works at any age and in any season of parenting 🔑 Key Takeaways “Will vs Skill” is a game-changing parenting lens. When you assume skill instead of will, you get clarity, compassion, and next steps. If it’s a skill issue, there is always a next step. You can teach, model, practice, scaffold, and support. If you treat it as a will issue, you often end up with shame and power struggles. Labels like “lazy,” “rude,” and “defiant” shut kids (and parents) down. Big behavior usually points to a missing skill, not a broken character. Think: organization, time management, emotional regulation, communication, empathy, executive functioning. Regulate first, teach later. A dysregulated brain can’t access its best skills. Help them calm, then coach. Redos are powerful. They let kids practice the skill you actually want—without the shame storm. Assuming skill protects your relationship. It keeps you and your child on the same team, solving a problem together. 📣 Strong CTA (Call to Action) If this episode helped you exhale and think, “Okay, I can do this differently,” would you: 👉 Share it with one parenting friend who’s stuck in the “they just won’t listen” loop? 👉 Screenshot and tag me on Instagram @sacredgroundcoaching with your favorite takeaway? Keywords: will vs skill, parenting mindset shift, child behavior, kids big emotions, emotional regulation for kids, TBRI, positive parenting tools /episode/index/show/570d2ae8-dd26-4bba-a139-b0c5efd66a38/id/39045735

Episode 18: Divorce and Therapy 11/17/2025

Episode 18: Divorce and Therapy When Divorce Hits Home: How to Support Your Kids (with Therapist Lindsey Racz, LPC) ✨ Grab the free for calm mornings and confident kids! Come hang out with me on Instagram for more tools like this. Episode Introduction Divorce is one of those topics that can stir big feelings for both the grown-ups and the kiddos. And if you’re in the thick of it, you already know — it can feel like trying to parent while your insides are on fire. In this episode of Emotions with Ease, I sat down with one of my favorite humans: Lindsey Racz, Licensed Professional Counselor, supervisor, women’s mental health expert, co-owner of Truth & Counsel, and mom of four. Lindsey brings a rare mix of wisdom, warmth, brain science, and “here’s what to actually DO” advice. We talk:✔️ How to help kids feel secure during divorce✔️ What emotionally sturdy parenting looks like✔️ The four S’s kids need (and how to give them)✔️ When to get extra support✔️ How to know if you need to do some emotional work✔️ Why self-compassion is a brain-changing superpower✔️ And the rituals, routines, and practical tools every parent can use If you’re navigating a hard season or love someone who is — this episode is packed with validation, hope, and tools you can use today. ⏱️ Timestamp Breakdown & Highlights 0:15 – Welcome + Meet Lindsey Race Why you’re going to love her (hint: this woman knows her stuff). Lindsey’s background in psychology, nutrition, CBT through Oxford, epigenetics & neurobiology. 3:18 – What Kids Actually Need During Divorce The “TDC”: tough, direct conversations Why honest, safe conversations matter The four S’s from attachment theory: Seen, Soothed, Safe, Secure 4:33 – How to Show Kids You’re Still Their Safe Place Why words matter less than your presence Nonverbal communication that builds safety The power of age-appropriate vulnerability 6:10 – What Emotionally Sturdy Parenting Looks Like Why doing your emotional work matters Lindsey shares her personal divorce story as both a kid and adult Therapy, social support, movement, nutrition, and “crying in the bathtub” moments 8:19 – Red Flags That You’re Not the Sturdy Parent Right Now Bad-mouthing the co-parent Quick anger, agitation, or “micro-cumulative” explosions Depression signs that often get missed The quiet internal voice saying, “I’m not okay” 11:24 – How to Keep Kids Grounded Between Two Homes Don’t put scheduling on kids (ever). Why communication should always be parent-to-parent, never kid-to-parent. Personality differences in kids + how moves affect them The magic of simple, consistent routines (like “ice cream + Uno” nights) 16:47 – What If I Need a Moderator? Who to call Where to start Why professionals and advocates are key 18:00 – For the Parent Feeling Guilt or Shame The sticky nature of shame The tool Lindsey believes matters most: self-compassion Why perfection is impossible (and not even good for your kids) 20:44 – The Brain Science Behind Self-Compassion How self-talk rewires your brain What the research says The example of the “mom ball-drop moment” Caroline Leaf’s “little dead trees” concept 28:29 – Lindsey’s Personal Answer: What Emotion She’s Getting Stuck In Emotional parenting: when your mood rides your kids’ moods The messy beauty of raising teens The three-word mantra she leans on: Good Enough Parenting 31:15 – Where to Find Lindsey + Her Team TruthandCounsel.com @truthandcounsel on IG & Facebook 🌱 Key Takeaways 1. Kids don’t need perfect — they need presence. Your tone, body language, and consistency speak louder than any “right words.” 2. Handle the communication (your kids shouldn’t). They didn’t choose this situation, so removing the emotional burden is crucial. 3. Traditions anchor kids in uncertain seasons. It doesn’t have to be fancy. Consistency > Pinterest-worthy. 4. If you can’t not speak negatively about the co-parent, it’s time for deeper work. No shame — just data for your emotional dashboard. 5. Your emotional health directly impacts your kids’ emotional safety. Therapy, rest, movement, nourishment, connection… they matter. 6. Self-compassion isn’t fluffy — it’s neuroscience. It literally rewires your brain and softens shame. 7. “Good Enough Parenting” is the goal. Not perfection. Not 100%. Not superhuman. Just good enough, most of the time, with repair when needed 🎧 CTA: Listen & Share + Grab the Divorce Conversation Guide If this episode supported you, please:✨ Subscribe✨ Leave a quick review✨ Share it with a friend or teacher who needs these tools Resources Mentioned- the brain benefits of journaling SEO Keywords: supporting kids through divorce, co-parenting tips, emotional safety for kids, how to help kids during divorce, divorce and kids emotions, coping with divorce as a parent, emotional wellness for families /episode/index/show/570d2ae8-dd26-4bba-a139-b0c5efd66a38/id/39045715

Episode 17: Parenting AFTER the "We're getting a divorce" talk 11/10/2025

Episode 17: Parenting AFTER the "We're getting a divorce" talk If this episode hit home — whether you’re navigating divorce, grief, or another hard family transition — you don’t have to do it solo. 👉 Book your free Discovery Call at (top right corner → Schedule a Free Call). We’ll craft language and scripts that feel calm, clear, and true for your unique situation. And while you’re there, grab your free — 10 days of practical tools to help kids (and parents) move through worry and big emotions with ease. If the timing’s right, check out the upcoming Wonder Over Worry Workshop — a 3-night experience where parents and kids learn my top 3 tools for calming worry through curiosity and connection. 🎙 Episode Introduction So, you’ve had the talk. You told your kids about the divorce, you breathed a giant sigh of relief… and now you’re wondering, “Okay, what comes next?” This week on Emotions with Ease, we’re diving into Part Two of our divorce series — what to do after the conversation. Because the truth is, telling your kids is just the beginning. In this episode, I’ll walk you through how to: Stay emotionally grounded while your kids are wobbling, Avoid the “two-team trap,” and Recognize when kids circle back to big feelings months (or years) later. Even if divorce isn’t part of your story, these tools work for any hard family season — grief, big moves, job loss, new schools. Let’s get you calm, clear, and confident again. 🌱 Key Takeaways 💛 Regulated parents raise regulated kids. Feel your feelings — just make sure they belong to you, not your child. 🧠 Resource yourself. Counselor, coach, friend, or journal — whatever helps you refill your emotional tank so you can keep showing up steady. 🤫 Don’t trash-talk the other parent. It only confuses and divides kids. Silence or neutrality is the real flex. 🤝 Stay on the same team. The marriage ended; the parenting didn’t. Your relationship changed shape, not purpose. 🔄 Development is a spiral, not a line. When kids revisit the divorce later, it’s not regression — it’s healthy re-processing. ✨ Name what’s yours and model what helps. “I’m sad, so I’m going to journal and take a walk.” That’s emotional literacy in action. 🧩 Practical Tools from This Episode The Regulation Script: “I’m feeling a wave of sadness. That’s my emotion, and I can handle it.” Maslow Moment: Before any tough talk or revisit, check: Is anyone hungry, tired, or thirsty? The Pitch Rule: When you really want to swing at that verbal pitch about your ex — don’t. Breathe, walk away, vent elsewhere. The Spiral Visual: Draw a spiral arrow up and to the right on a sticky note. Keep it handy as a reminder that looping back is still moving forward. /episode/index/show/570d2ae8-dd26-4bba-a139-b0c5efd66a38/id/39031485

Episode 16: How to talk to kids about divorce 11/03/2025

Episode 16: How to talk to kids about divorce If you’re facing a big conversation — divorce, loss, or any “life just shifted” moment — you don’t have to do it alone. 👉 Book your free discovery call at (top right corner — Schedule a Free Call). I’ll help you craft words that feel true, calm, and confident for your unique situation. And while you’re at it, grab my — 10 days of short, practical tools to help kids (and parents) move through worry with ease. 🎙 Introduction Let’s be real — telling your kids you’re getting a divorce feels like one of the heaviest, most heart-wrenching things a parent could ever do. You want to say the right thing, but your brain keeps going, “What even is the right thing?” In this week’s episode of Emotions with Ease, I’m walking you through exactly how to have that first hard conversation — what to say, when to say it, and how to keep your kids feeling safe, seen, and steady. Even if divorce isn’t your story, this episode is still worth the listen — because the same tools apply to any hard conversation with your kiddo (think: death, moving, school changes, or big transitions). 🌱 Key Takeaways ✨ Clear is Kind. Kids can handle the truth when it’s spoken calmly and clearly. Vague = scary. 🧠 Maslow First. Don’t have big talks when someone’s hangry, tired, or dehydrated. Meet basic needs before emotional ones. 💬 Say What’s Changing—and What’s Staying. Kids need anchors like, “You’ll still see both of us,” or, “Your bedtime routine won’t change.” 👂 Keep It Short. The first talk isn’t the whole talk. Let them process and circle back later. ❤️ Reassure, Reassure, Reassure. Say, “This is a grown-up problem. It’s not your fault.” Then say it again. 🤝 If You Can, Tell Them Together. Unity between parents (even just for 10 minutes) gives kids stability. 🧩 Practical Tools Mentioned Maslow Check: Is anyone hungry, tired, or thirsty? If yes, postpone. Script Prompts by Age: Littles, elementary, tweens/teens — plug and play from the episode. Follow-Up Plan: Check in that night, 2–3 days later, and again after a week. Anchor List: Write down 2–3 things changing, and 2–3 things that stay the same. /episode/index/show/570d2ae8-dd26-4bba-a139-b0c5efd66a38/id/39031490

Episode 15: When Kids Avoid Because of Fear- How to Build a Bravery Ladder (with age-by-age examples) 10/27/2025

Episode 14: How to Help Your Child Calm Worry at Bedtime (Without Losing Your Mind) 10/20/2025

Episode 14: How to Help Your Child Calm Worry at Bedtime (Without Losing Your Mind) How to Help Your Child Calm Worry at Bedtime (Without Losing Your Mind) ✨ Grab the free for calm mornings and confident kids! Come hang out with me on Instagram for more tools like this If you’ve ever tucked your child into bed, turned off the lights, and heard: “Hey, Mom…” you already know what’s coming next. The worry brain — or what I call the Watchdog Brain — loves to show up at bedtime. And suddenly, your peaceful evening turns into a two-hour spiral of what-ifs and but what abouts. In this episode of the Emotions with Ease Podcast, I’m sharing exactly what to do when bedtime becomes a worry fest. You’ll learn simple, science-backed tools that help calm your child’s body and brain so everyone can finally rest. 🌙 Step One: Create a Nighttime Routine A predictable routine cues your child’s nervous system that it’s time to rest. Dinner, shower, snack, teeth, prayers — whatever rhythm fits your family, try to keep it consistent. Even if life feels chaotic, ask yourself: “What’s one small thing we can do every night that says, ‘It’s bedtime’?” That one step helps their body feel safe and ready for sleep. 📵 Step Two: Limit Screens Before Bed Blue light and fast-paced content keep the brain alert. Experts recommend no screens for two hours before bedtime — but even 30 minutes helps. When the whole family goes screen-free, everyone’s nervous system gets the message: it’s time to slow down. 🍎 Step Three: Focus on the Roots, Not the Fruit Using my Apple Tree metaphor — the fruit represents your child’s behaviors or worries. The roots are what’s happening underneath: their sense of safety, their body cues, and their emotions. Don’t jump into fixing the worry story (“You’ll do fine on your test!”). Start by helping their body feel safe and grounded first. 🪷 Step Four: Calm the Body Through the Senses The nervous system speaks in five languages — sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell. Help your child discover what feels calming for them: A weighted blanket or cozy comforter Nightlight or soft hallway glow White noise or a fan A stuffed animal or favorite pillow Ask, “What helps your body feel safe at night?” and build from there. 🌬️ Step Five: Try Body-Based Calm-Down Tools Here are three of my go-to tools that work wonders at bedtime: 1. The Mindful Minute (5-4-3-2-1) Have your child name five things they see, four they can touch, three they can smell, two they can hear, and one they can taste (a sip of water works!). It grounds them in the present moment. 2. Progressive Muscle Relaxation Play a game: “Freeze like ice… now melt!” Have them squeeze their muscles tight for five seconds, then release. It teaches tension release through play. 3. Belly Breathing with a Stuffy Have your child place a stuffed animal on their belly. As they inhale through their nose, tell them, “Make your stuffy rise to the ceiling.” As they exhale, the stuffy lowers. Simple, visual, and calming. 💭 Step Six: Help Them Externalize Their Worries When worries stay trapped in the brain, they grow louder. Try one of these ideas to help your child get the worries out: The “Hold My Worries” Ritual – Have them pretend to hand you their worries, and tell them you’ll hold them until morning. A Worry Journal – Let older kids write or draw their worries before bed. The Mini Shredder Trick – Have them draw their worry on a Post-it and “shred” it. Watching it disappear can be surprisingly powerful! These small rituals teach kids that worries can be seen, named, and released. 💤 Step Seven: Use Sleep Stories or Calming Audio Try calming bedtime stories on apps like Calm or Headspace, or the YouTube gem Sleepy Paws. The soft rhythm and voice help slow heart rate and bring safety to the nervous system — no screens, just sound. 🌿 Final Thoughts Helping your child calm worry at bedtime starts with safety, not logic. Build consistency through routine, calm the body before the brain, and use playful rituals that create distance from the “worry voice.” You don’t need to fix your child’s worry — you just need to show up with presence, patience, and a few good tools. /episode/index/show/570d2ae8-dd26-4bba-a139-b0c5efd66a38/id/39031500

Episode 13: Parenting with Anxiety- How Couples Can Stay Regulated and Connected 10/13/2025

Emotions With Ease

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