Parenting for Thought

Claiming Your Space: Invisible Labor and Your Home

Professional organizer George Tanner joins Emry to unpack what clutter really represents—and how organizing your home is deeply entwined with gender, parenting, neurodivergence, and societal pressure. From dishwasher arguments to invisible labor, this episode is a heart-opening reminder that reclaiming your space is reclaiming your power. Learn more or work with George: www.simplifybygeorge.com [https://www.simplifybygeorge.com/] Follow her on Instagram: @simplifybygeorge Connect with Emry and explore parenting resources: www.emrykettle.com Follow along at @emrykettle.coach

Music: Not Just a Playlist, but Coping Strategies and Healing

What even is music therapy—and why does it matter to parents? In this heart-filled episode, Emry sits down with music psychotherapist Al Hoberman to explore how music supports connection, regulation, and resilience in everyday life. From singing in the bath to powering through surgery with Idina Menzel on loop, they unpack how music lives in our bones, our memories, and our relationships. Whether you’re raising kids, healing your nervous system, or just trying to survive the day—this episode offers both soulful insight and practical tools. 03:05 – What is music therapy? 07:20 – Music as our first language 10:20 – Emry’s cancer and music story 16:10 – How music held every emotion 21:00 – Songs from childhood as connection 26:20 – Helping kids transition with music 29:45 – Music as regulation for parents Find out more about Al Hoberman: https://www.soundbalancetherapy.com/ [https://www.soundbalancetherapy.com/] Learn more about working with Emry Kettle: https://www.emrykettle.com/ [https://www.emrykettle.com/]

Letting Go to Show Up: Identity, Self-Care & Parenting with Kristin Schmoke

Welcome back to Parenting for Thought! In this episode, we chat with Kristin Schmoke, a seasoned teacher and parent coach with over 25 years of experience. Kristen discusses her diverse teaching background, the concept of parent fragility, and the importance of self-care in parenting. We explore the impact of regional and cultural differences on parenting styles and dive into the challenges parents face in letting go of old identities to foster better relationships with their children. Join us for an enlightening conversation packed with laughter, insights, and practical tips for becoming the best parent you can be!   00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:41 Kristin's Background and Experience 02:51 Regional Parenting Differences 06:03 Parent Fragility and Coaching Challenges 08:19 Generational Growth and Identity 20:26 Discipline vs. Punishment 21:56 The Importance of Self-Care for Parents 32:47 Systemic Challenges in Parenting 35:08 Conclusion and Contact Information   Find Kristin here www.kristinschmoke.com [http://www.kristinschmoke.com] www.instagram.com/kristin.schmoke.parenting [http://www.instagram.com/kristin.schmoke.parenting]   Find Emry here www.emrykettle.com [http://www.emrykettle.com] www.instagram/emrykettle.coach [http://www.instagram/emrykettle.coach]

Mastering Empathic Dialogue with Raffi Bilek

Join us on Parenting for Thought with host Emry Kettle as we dive into calm and effective communication strategies with marriage counselor and author Raffi Bilek. In this episode, Raffi discusses key principles from his book 'The Couple's Communication Handbook,' emphasizing the value of taking breaks, empathic dialogue, and separating exploration from resolution in discussions. Perfect for parents, couples, and anyone looking to improve their relationships. Tune in for practical advice and real-life examples! 00:00 The Importance of Timing in Communication 01:38 Effective Communication in Relationships 02:56 Handling Emotional Spikes in Parenting 05:36 The Myth of Never Going to Bed Angry 12:22 Empathic Dialogue: A Framework for Better Communication 19:09 Applying Communication Strategies Beyond Marriage 24:59 Balancing Emotions and Taking Breaks 32:57 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways Find Raffi’s book here https://www.thecommunicationbook.com/ [https://www.thecommunicationbook.com/] Connect with Emry here www.emrykettle.com [http://www.emrykettle.com] www.instagram.com/emrykettle.coach [http://www.instagram.com/emrykettle.coach]

Navigating Childcare: Tips, Tricks, and Communication Hacks with Larissa Hazell

Today's guest on Parenting for Thought is Larissa, a childcare navigator, shares invaluable insights on choosing the right childcare options—be it a nanny, babysitter, or nursery. Larissa emphasizes the vital role of communication between parents and childcare providers to ensure the best care for children.    Tune in to learn practical advice on managing expectations, discussing key issues like food and behavior, and understanding the importance of aligning values. Larissa also talks about her book, 'Questions to Ask Prospective Child Care Settings and Child Minders,' packed with over 140 questions to help parents make informed decisions. Whether you're a seasoned parent or just starting this journey, this episode is a must-watch!   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Childcare as a Third Parent 00:40 Meet Larissa: The Childcare Navigator 02:55 Finding the Right Childcare: Tips and Advice 04:48 The Value of In-Home Childcare 10:39 Balancing Childcare and Personal Values 23:14 Behavior Management and Childcare 29:20 The Importance of Communication 35:15 Resources for Parents   Connect with Larissa here: https://www.thechildcarenavigator.com [https://www.thechildcarenavigator.com]   Get Larissa’s book here: https://thechildcarenavigator.com/product-details/product/ultimateguide [https://thechildcarenavigator.com/product-details/product/ultimateguide]   Connect with Emry here: https://www.emrykettle.com [https://www.emrykettle.com] https://www.instagram.com/emrykettle.coach/ [https://www.instagram.com/emrykettle.coach/]