Zen Parenting is a weekly podcast discussion between a spiritual and emotional mom (Cathy Cassani Adams) and a logical and practical dad (Todd Adams). Every episode is a reminder to wake up to our lives; to be ever more mindful, self-aware, and compassionate in how we parent and how we treat ourselves and others.
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Leave Things Better Than We Found Them- Episode # 812
26:53
26:53
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26:53We talk about our oddly soothing obsession with rug-cleaning and lawn care TikToks—and what they reveal about care, restoration, and using your energy to make things better. We also get into the difference between seeking positive vs. negative attention, and why people sometimes act out when what they really want is to be seen and to belong. From A…
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Cathy and Todd talk about the collective anxiety so many of us are carrying right now, whether it’s our daily responsibilities or the heaviness of what we’re witnessing on a national or global scale. They discuss Cathy’s three personal guideposts—integrity, humility, and compassion—how these words help her navigate parenting, conflict, relationship…
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The Unseen Work of Regulating Others- Episode # 810
39:53
39:53
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39:53Cathy and Todd talk about the double standard of managing other people’s emotions—how it’s both expected and criticized—and why this kind of emotional regulation is often misunderstood and overlooked. They also discuss menopause and why emotions can shift or intensify, and how learning what’s really going on can help the whole family better underst…
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Strong Enough to Connect: Masculinity, Humility, and Responsibility Episode# 809
56:20
56:20
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56:20Todd and Cathy discuss a recent episode of survivor, Cathy’s frustration at Todd’s double parking, as well as humility, masculinity, responsibility, and emotional support in relationships. Some Ways to Support Us Order Restoring our Girls Join Team Zen Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Growing Our Girls discussion about Restoring Our Girls Fatherhood Fu…
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Raising Kids Who Enjoy Learning- Episode# 808
46:18
46:18
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46:18Todd and Cathy discussed the importance of raising kids who enjoy learning, emphasizing the need for a play-based learning environment and the importance of not overburdening children with academic tasks too early. They also highlighted the challenges faced by educators, including pressure from parents and curriculum requirements, and advocated for…
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Todd and Cathy discussed their personal experiences and a Netflix miniseries called “Adolescence,”, focusing on issues such as gender dynamics, male rage, and online influences on young men. They explored the manosphere, its impact on society, and the importance of addressing digital sexism and male supremacy, while also examining family dynamics a…
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Not Tuning Out—Just Engaging Differently Episode #806
51:33
51:33
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51:33Todd and Cathy shared strategies for staying informed without burning out from the world, and the need for personal well-being for continued engagement and making a difference. Some Ways to Support Us Order Restoring our Girls Join Team Zen Sign up for Cathy’s Substack Links shared in this episode: For the full show notes, visit zenparentingradio.c…
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We discuss Women’s History Month, emphasizing the importance of understanding women’s experiences and challenges in society. They explore various aspects of women’s safety, cultural norms, and the need for men to engage with and support women’s issues. We also highlight the significance of nurturing relationships, adaptability, and women’s role in …
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Todd and Cathy discussed the importance of critical thinking, the avoidance of thought terminating cliches, and the need for clear roles and expectations within their team. They also expressed concerns about the current state of the administration and its impact on society, and highlighted the importance of adapting to changing cultural norms and s…
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This Is So Awkward, Modern Puberty Explained- Episode #803
55:42
55:42
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55:42Todd and Cathy talk with Cara Natterson MD and Vanessa Kroll Bennett, authors of This Is So Awkward, Modern Puberty Explained. We share experiences and motivations for focusing on puberty and sex education. They also discussed the differences between traditional and progressive education systems, the influence of pornography on societal attitudes t…
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How an Open Mind Strengthens Our Relationships- Episode #802
1:04:14
1:04:14
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1:04:14Todd and Cathy reminisced about the evolution of telephones and shared their experiences with prank calls and shared phone lines. They also discussed the importance of open-mindedness, empathy, and understanding in human interactions, emphasizing the need to trust oneself and not rely solely on personal experiences or opinions. The conversation con…
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Flood the Zone: Staying Calm When Things Get Loud- Episode #801
1:01:36
1:01:36
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1:01:36Todd and Cathy discussed the concept of "flooding the zone" in family dynamics and personal peace of mind, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking, discernment, and effective communication. They explored various strategies to manage the effects of flooding the zone, including being clear about core values, prioritizing and filtering informa…
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Todd and Cathy discussed highlights from their recent Zen Parenting Conference, including various topics such as generational slang, societal challenges for boys and girls, and the importance of open communication with children. They reflected on the conference's success, emphasizing the interactive nature of the event, the impact of guest speakers…
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5 Things to be Optimistic About- Episode # 799
54:10
54:10
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54:10Todd and Cathy discussed the importance of optimism, perseverance, and emotional intelligence in personal and professional development, using examples from their experiences and current events. They also highlighted the impact of independent filmmakers and digital platforms on the entertainment industry, and expressed optimism about the growing und…
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The Nuance of “Let Them” The Importance and Pitfalls of Self-Help- Episode #798
56:35
56:35
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56:35Todd and Cathy discuss Mel Robbins book “Let Them”, the importance of nuance in self-help concepts. They also touched on the importance of trust and communication in relationships, and the concept of "letting go" in personal relationships. Lastly, they shared their thoughts on various TV shows and movies, and emphasized the importance of self-aware…
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10 Quotes to Change Your Life- Episode#797
51:20
51:20
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51:20Todd and Cathy discussed Cathy's most recent Substack which were 10 quotes that impacted Cathy. The conversation covered a range of subjects including the balance between joy and sadness, the value of kindness and compassion, and the significance of critical thinking and role modeling in conversations.…
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Todd and Cathy discussed various TV shows, movies, and practices to improve mental and emotional well-being, including gratitude lists, morning pages, and yogic adjustments. They also emphasized the importance of prioritization, effective task management, and creating playlists for personal enjoyment and staying connected with others. Lastly, they …
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Elf, The Movie- A Holiday Deep Dive Episode #795
52:05
52:05
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52:05Todd and Cathy discussed the movie "Elf," covering its production, casting, and memorable scenes. They explored the film's themes, characters, and cultural significance, while also playing a trivia game and sharing personal reflections on the Christmas spirit.By Todd and Cathy Adams
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Todd & Cathy discussed the release of Cathy’s book "Restoring Our Girls," which focuses on challenges faced by teenage girls. Todd shared insights on making P, B, & J's, parenting, particularly maintaining connections with his daughters as they mature and become more independent.By Todd and Cathy Adams
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Do Your Teens Wait Until Night To Open Up- Episode #793
51:37
51:37
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51:37Cathy & Todd discussed the release of Cathy's fifth book, the importance of allowing oneself and one's children to express their true selves, and the challenges of parenting. They also shared personal stories about their daughters and the reasons behind children unloading their emotions at night. Lastly, they emphasized the importance of emotional …
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Teens Helping Teens Navigate Mental Health- A Conversation with the Founders of Chase Light- Episode #792
59:14
59:14
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59:14This week’s podcast features a chat with three high school seniors from Hinsdale Central, just outside of Chicago. Zara, Rami, and Molly have started Chase Light, a group focused on breaking down the stigma around mental health and offering support to their peers.By Todd and Cathy Adams
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Adapt- Parenting Through The Lens Of Spiral Dynamics- Episode #791
41:36
41:36
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41:36Cathy & Todd discussed the concept of Spiral Dynamics, a theory about human evolution and societal development, and its application in parenting and relationships. They emphasized the importance of balance, flexibility, and empathy in understanding different stages of development and maintaining a strong value system. They also touched on the inter…
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Helping our Kids Feel Less Alone- Episode # 790
37:25
37:25
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37:25Todd and Cathy emphasized the importance of understanding and connecting with daughters, using Cathy's upcoming book on parenting girls as a guide. They shared personal experiences and strategies for maintaining strong relationships with children, highlighting the need for physical presence, understanding, and adapting communication styles. They al…
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Todd and Cathy bring calm in the context of an upcoming election. They discussed the importance of self-compassion, its three components, and the concept of mindfulness, emphasizing that self-compassion is not about letting oneself off the hook, but rather about treating oneself with kindness and understanding.…
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The Election is One Week From Today- Episode #788
53:33
53:33
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53:33Todd and Cathy discuss cell phone use in schools, and the challenges of navigating through difficult situations such as elderly care and relationship dynamics. They also highlighted the importance of effective communication, teamwork, and self-care in dealing with such situations. Lastly, they discussed the top 10 common obstacles families face whe…
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