41. Raising a Highly Sensitive Child: The Neuroscience of Big Feelings with Dr. Aoife Durcan

41. Raising a Highly Sensitive Child: The Neuroscience of Big Feelings with Dr. Aoife Durcan

Raising highly sensitive children: the neuroscience of big feelings, co-regulation, and supporting sensitive kids. In this episode of More Than Milestones, I am joined by Dr. Aoife Durcan, chartered counseling psychologist, author of Your Highly Sensitive Child, and founder of Highly Sensitive Psychologist, to explore what it really means to raise a highly sensitive child. Roughly 30% of children are born with a finely tuned nervous system that processes the world more deeply, feels emotions more intensely, and is more attuned to subtle changes in their environment. Drawing on both her clinical work and her experience parenting three highly sensitive boys, Dr. Durcan breaks down the neuroscience behind sensory processing sensitivity and offers compassionate, practical guidance for parents who feel like their child experiences everything more. Together, we talk about why some babies are so hard to soothe and what that means for postpartum mental health, the difference between high sensitivity and neurodivergence, and why co-regulation matters so much for these kids. We also get into emotional dysregulation, the "window of tolerance," holding boundaries without breaking connection, and how supporting a sensitive child early builds confident, self-assured adults. If you are a highly sensitive parent, raising a deeply feeling child, or simply trying to understand the big emotions in your home, this conversation will leave you feeling seen, validated, and equipped. In this episode, we cover: * What sensory processing sensitivity actually is, from a neuroscience perspective * Why roughly 30% of kids are born highly sensitive * How high sensitivity shows up in babies and what it means for postpartum mental health * The difference between high sensitivity and neurodivergence (and why the distinction matters) * Why co-regulation is so important for a highly sensitive child * Understanding the "window of tolerance" and emotional dysregulation * How to become a "sensory detective" for your child and yourself * Setting and holding boundaries without harming connection * Why supporting sensitive kids early builds confident, resilient adults * Neuroplasticity, repair, and why it is never too late to change your approach * The number one thing every parent of a sensitive child should know Sensitivity is not a weakness to fix. It is a trait to understand and nurture. When we lean in, co-regulate, and help our children feel seen, we raise kids who grow into adults who feel assured in exactly who they are. Chapters / Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome & introducing Dr. Aoife Durcan 00:34 – Aoife's background and her own highly sensitive boys 01:33 – The neuroscience: what high sensitivity actually is 04:52 – Sensing subtle shifts in tone (KC & Aoife's real-life examples) 07:14 – High sensitivity vs. neurodivergence: is there a difference? 08:57 – Just how common is it? (the 30% figure) 09:40 – What parents notice, including in babies 12:31 – Postpartum mental health and hard-to-soothe babies 14:28 – Why co-regulation matters so much 18:02 – When siblings feel the same thing differently 19:12 – Beyond the physical: the relationship is everything 22:10 – Emotional dysregulation and the "bucket" that overflows 23:40 – The window of tolerance & becoming a "sensory detective" 28:12 – "The only kid who won't leave my lap" and why support pays off 30:05 – Repair, neuroplasticity, and hope for parents 31:58 – Holding boundaries without breaking connection 36:03 – You don't have to say the perfect thing 37:27 – The number one thing every parent should know 39:26 – Where to find Dr. Durcan and her book Connect with Dr. Aoife Durcan:  📖 Book: Your Highly Sensitive Child https://www.amazon.com/Your-Highly-Sensitive-Child-overwhelming/dp/1804581585 [https://www.amazon.com/Your-Highly-Sensitive-Child-overwhelming/dp/1804581585] 📱 Instagram: @highlysensitivepsychologist 💻 Website: https://www.instituteofhighsensitivity.com/ [https://www.instituteofhighsensitivity.com/]  Connect with KC and Milestones & Motherhood:  💻 Website & Blog: https://www.milestonesandmotherhood.com/ [https://www.milestonesandmotherhood.com/] 📱 Follow KC: @milestones.and.motherhood 🎧 Follow the podcast: @more.than.milestones.pod 📬 Subscribe to the newsletter: https://idyllic-hat-942.myflodesk.com/fwefz61097 [https://idyllic-hat-942.myflodesk.com/fwefz61097] 🛒 Shop KC's favorites: https://links.milestonesandmotherhood.com/amazon/amazonstorefrontmm [https://links.milestonesandmotherhood.com/amazon/amazonstorefrontmm] 🔥 Go deeper with KC on Substack — More Than Milestones: Unfiltered is my subscription channel where I release 2 exclusive bonus episodes every month. Even more raw, unfiltered motherhood conversations you will not hear anywhere else. https://substack.com/@morethanmilestones [https://substack.com/@morethanmilestones] 🤝 Sponsor or guest inquiries? Contact us at podcast@milestonesandmotherhood.com Love this episode? It would mean so much if you:  ⭐ Rate and review the podcast  🎧 Follow or subscribe so you do not miss an episode  📲 Share this episode with a friend who is navigating the same questions LMNT: Get a free 8-count Sample Pack of LMNT’s most popular drink mix flavors with any purchase at http://drinklmnt.com/MILESTONE [http://drinklmnt.com/MILESTONE]. Find your favorite LMNT flavor, or share with a friend.

40. The Power of Play: How Inclusive Spaces Shape Childhood and Belonging with G Cody QJ Goldberg

Inclusive playgrounds, accessibility, and why play matters for everyone. In this episode of More Than Milestones, I am joined by Cody Goldberg, co-founder and Chief Play Officer of Harper's Playground, to explore the power of inclusive playgrounds and why accessible play spaces are about so much more than play. Inspired by his daughter Harper's experience navigating the world with a rare genetic disability, Cody shares how a simple moment at a local playground sparked a movement to transform communities through radically inclusive design. Together, we discuss the difference between ADA compliance and true accessibility, the importance of designing spaces that foster belonging, and how thoughtful play environments can benefit people of all ages and abilities. This conversation challenges us to think beyond ramps and regulations and consider what it really means to create communities where everyone feels welcome, connected, and included. If you are passionate about accessibility, disability inclusion, child development, community connection, or creating spaces where all people can thrive, this episode is for you. In this episode, we cover: • The story behind Harper's Playground and how one family's experience sparked a global movement • Why accessible playgrounds are about belonging, not just compliance • The difference between ADA compliant and truly inclusive design • How playgrounds impact child development, social skills, and emotional growth • Why play is a fundamental human need across the lifespan • The hidden barriers that exist in many public spaces • How nature, community, and thoughtful design create better play experiences • The connection between inclusive spaces and reducing social isolation • What makes a playground physically, socially, and emotionally inviting • Practical steps for advocating for an inclusive playground in your own community • The future of accessibility and inclusive public spaces Inclusive design is not about creating separate spaces for people with disabilities. It is about building communities where everyone belongs. When we design for connection, accessibility, and play, we create environments that benefit all of us. Connect with G Cody QJ Goldberg and Harper’s Playground: 💻 Website: https://www.harpersplayground.org/ [https://www.harpersplayground.org/]  📱 Harper’s Playground: https://www.instagram.com/harpersplayground/ [https://www.instagram.com/harpersplayground/]  🔗LinkedIn: G Cody QJ Goldberg Connect with KC and Milestones & Motherhood: 💻 Website & Blog:  https://www.milestonesandmotherhood.com/ [https://www.milestonesandmotherhood.com/] 📱 Follow KC for daily motor milestone tips and parenting support:  https://www.instagram.com/milestones.and.motherhood/ [https://www.instagram.com/milestones.and.motherhood/] 🎧 Follow podcast updates and new episode drops:  https://www.instagram.com/more.than.milestones/ [https://www.instagram.com/more.than.milestones/] 📬 Join the email list for milestone tips and podcast updates  https://idyllic-hat-942.myflodesk.com/fwefz61097 [https://idyllic-hat-942.myflodesk.com/fwefz61097] 🛒 Shop KC’s favorite mom and baby finds:  https://links.milestonesandmotherhood.com/amazon/amazonstorefrontmm [https://links.milestonesandmotherhood.com/amazon/amazonstorefrontmm] 🔥Go deeper with KC on Substack More Than Milestones: Unfiltered is my subscription channel where I release 2 exclusive bonus episodes every month. Even more raw, unfiltered motherhood conversations you will not hear anywhere else. https://substack.com/@morethanmilestones [https://substack.com/@morethanmilestones] 🤝 Sponsor or guest inquiries?  Contact us at podcast@milestonesandmotherhood.com [podcast@milestonesandmotherhood.com] Love this episode? It would mean so much if you: ⭐ Rate and review the podcast 🎧 Follow or subscribe so you do not miss an episode 📲 Share this episode with a friend who is navigating the same questions

39. The Hormone Revolution: What Women Were Never Taught About Their Bodies with Mariah Berendt

PMS, painful periods, and how to support your body through nutrition In this episode of More Than Milestones, I am joined by Mariah Berendt, a holistic nutritionist and menstrual cycle educator, to unpack the truth about hormone health, PMS, and why so many women feel “off” for years without real answers. We talk about how common symptoms like painful periods, mood swings, fatigue, and cravings are often normalized, but are not actually something you have to live with. From the myths of cycle syncing to the foundations of true hormone support, this conversation offers a more realistic and sustainable approach. If you have ever felt like your body is working against you, this episode will help you understand why and what you can do about it. In this episode, we cover: * Why many period symptoms are common but not normal * The truth about hormonal birth control and what we still do not know * Cycle syncing and where it can be misleading * Why your cycle is not as simple as four phases * The connection between blood sugar, stress, sleep, and hormones * How modern life impacts your cycle more than you think * The six foundations of holistic menstrual health * Why doing more is not the answer * A simple place to start that most women overlook You do not need a complicated plan or perfect routine. Supporting your hormones starts with small, consistent changes in how you eat, sleep, and care for your body. LMNT: Get a free 8-count Sample Pack of LMNT’s most popular drink mix flavors with any purchase at http://drinklmnt.com/MILESTONE [http://drinklmnt.com/MILESTONE]. Find your favorite LMNT flavor, or share with a friend.  Connect with Mariah: 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nourishyourcycle/ [https://www.instagram.com/nourishyourcycle/]  🍴 Big Girl Breakfast: https://www.nourishyourcycle.com/big-girl-breakfast [https://www.nourishyourcycle.com/big-girl-breakfast]  Connect with KC and Milestones & Motherhood: 💻 Website & Blog:  https://www.milestonesandmotherhood.com/ [https://www.milestonesandmotherhood.com/] 📱 Follow KC for daily motor milestone tips and parenting support:  https://www.instagram.com/milestones.and.motherhood/ [https://www.instagram.com/milestones.and.motherhood/] 🎧 Follow podcast updates and new episode drops:  https://www.instagram.com/more.than.milestones/ [https://www.instagram.com/more.than.milestones/] 📬 Join the email list for milestone tips and podcast updates  https://idyllic-hat-942.myflodesk.com/fwefz61097 [https://idyllic-hat-942.myflodesk.com/fwefz61097] 🛒 Shop KC’s favorite mom and baby finds:  https://links.milestonesandmotherhood.com/amazon/amazonstorefrontmm [https://links.milestonesandmotherhood.com/amazon/amazonstorefrontmm] 🤝 Sponsor or guest inquiries?  Contact us at podcast@milestonesandmotherhood.com [podcast@milestonesandmotherhood.com] 🔥Go deeper with KC on Substack More Than Milestones: Unfiltered is my subscription channel where I release 2 exclusive bonus episodes every month. Even more raw, unfiltered motherhood conversations you will not hear anywhere else. https://substack.com/@morethanmilestones [https://substack.com/@morethanmilestones] Love this episode? It would mean so much if you: ⭐ Rate and review the podcast 🎧 Follow or subscribe so you do not miss an episode 📲 Share this episode with a friend who is navigating the same questions

38. Financial Literacy for Parents: Budgeting, Investing, and Raising Money-Smart Kids with Hannah Rein

In this episode of More Than Milestones, I’m sitting down with Hannah Rein, CPA, mom of three, and co-founder of Financially Engaged, to talk about financial literacy in a way that actually feels doable for real life. Because the truth is, most of us were never taught this. We break down the foundational pieces of personal finance, including budgeting, investing, debt payoff, and long-term financial planning, and how to approach it all without overwhelm or shame. Hannah shares simple ways to create a system that works for your life, not against it, and how to start building financial confidence step by step. We also talk about the real-life side of money. How to navigate finances with your partner, how to start having more open conversations, and how to model financial literacy for your kids in ways that feel natural and age-appropriate. One of my favorite parts of this conversation is when Hannah shares her “When We Die” folder. It completely shifted how I think about organizing our finances and planning for the unexpected, especially as a parent. In this episode, we cover: - How to create a realistic budget that you can actually stick to - Where to start with investing, including 401k, IRA, and index funds - High-yield savings accounts vs traditional savings accounts - How to build and prioritize your emergency fund - The snowball vs avalanche method for paying off debt - What accounts to consider for your kids, including 529, UGMA, and custodial IRA - How to have honest and productive money conversations as a couple - Simple ways to start teaching kids about money early on - What a monthly financial reset can look like - How to organize your finances with a “When We Die” folder If you’ve ever felt like you’re behind, confused, or just not sure where to start with your finances, this episode is for you. My hope is that you walk away feeling more clear, confident, and supported in taking your next step. Connect with Hannah: 💻 Website: https://financiallyengaged.com/ [https://financiallyengaged.com/] 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/financiallyengaged/ [https://www.instagram.com/financiallyengaged/] Connect with KC and Milestones & Motherhood: 💻 Website & Blog: https://www.milestonesandmotherhood.com/ [https://www.milestonesandmotherhood.com/] 📱 Follow KC for daily motor milestone tips and parenting support: https://www.instagram.com/milestones.and.motherhood/ [https://www.instagram.com/milestones.and.motherhood/] 🎧 Follow podcast updates and new episode drops:  https://www.instagram.com/more.than.milestones/ [https://www.instagram.com/more.than.milestones/] 📬 Join the email list for milestone tips and podcast updates  https://idyllic-hat-942.myflodesk.com/fwefz61097 [https://idyllic-hat-942.myflodesk.com/fwefz61097] 🛒 Shop KC’s favorite mom and baby finds:  https://links.milestonesandmotherhood.com/amazon/amazonstorefrontmm [https://links.milestonesandmotherhood.com/amazon/amazonstorefrontmm] 🤝 Sponsor or guest inquiries? Contact us at podcast@milestonesandmotherhood.com [podcast@milestonesandmotherhood.com] 🔥Go deeper with KC on Substack More Than Milestones: Unfiltered is my subscription channel where I release 2 exclusive bonus episodes every month. Even more raw, unfiltered motherhood conversations you will not hear anywhere else. https://substack.com/@morethanmilestones [https://substack.com/@morethanmilestones] Love this episode? It would mean so much if you: ⭐ Rate and review the podcast 🎧 Follow or subscribe so you do not miss an episode 📲 Share this episode with a friend who is navigating the same questions

37. Low-Tox Living Without the Overwhelm: Simple Swaps, Safer Cleaning and Real-Life Wellness Habits

Non-toxic living is everywhere right now, but for most moms it does not feel empowering. It feels overwhelming. In this episode of More Than Milestones, I am joined by wellness educator Samantha Gutierrez to break down what low-tox living actually looks like in real life and how to approach it without fear, perfection, or falling into endless research rabbit holes. We talk about how to make simple, high-impact swaps in your home, how to think critically about products and marketing, and how to support your body’s natural detox systems with small, sustainable habits. If you have ever felt like you are not doing enough or you do not know where to start, this episode will help you take a deep breath and move forward with confidence. In this episode, we talk through: * Why non-toxic living can feel overwhelming & how to simplify it * How to make healthier swaps without throwing everything out * What to prioritize first, including food, skincare, or cleaning products * The truth about common household cleaners and disinfectants * What quats (quaternary ammonium compounds) are and why they matter * A breakdown of hypochlorous acid and safer disinfecting options * How to navigate conflicting research * Practical daily habits to support your body’s natural detox systems * Circadian rhythm, sunlight, and simple wellness routines * Glucose balance basics including meal order, walks, and easy metabolism habits * Real-life meal prep and nutrition tips for busy moms Links & resources mentioned: * Curativa Bay: https://www.curativabay.com/?rfsn=9019208.736ac22 [https://www.curativabay.com/?rfsn=9019208.736ac22] (CODE: HABITS) * EcoloxTech: https://ecoloxtech.com/samanthagutierrez [https://ecoloxtech.com/samanthagutierrez] (CODE: SAMANTHA10) * Switch Natural App: https://gmm.one/5188d7a0-d51f-4838-bead-74bf87042643 [https://gmm.one/5188d7a0-d51f-4838-bead-74bf87042643] * Force of Nature: https://partners.forceofnatureclean.com/milestonesandmotherhood [https://partners.forceofnatureclean.com/milestonesandmotherhood]  (CODE: MILESTONES for 40% OFF bundles) * LMNT: http://drinklmnt.com/MILESTONE [http://drinklmnt.com/MILESTONE] Get a free 8-count Sample Pack of LMNT’s most popular drink mix flavors with any purchase.  Some of these links are affiliate links, which just means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only ever share products we actually use and love. Connect with Samantha: 📲 Instagram & TikTok: @sam_healinghabits  Connect with KC: 💻 Website:  https://www.milestonesandmotherhood.com/ [https://www.milestonesandmotherhood.com/] 📲 KC's Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/milestones.and.motherhood/ [https://www.instagram.com/milestones.and.motherhood/] 🎧 More Than Milestones Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/more.than.milestones [https://www.instagram.com/more.than.milestones/] 🛒 Shop KC’s favorite finds:  https://links.milestonesandmotherhood.com/amazon/amazonstorefrontmm [https://links.milestonesandmotherhood.com/amazon/amazonstorefrontmm] 🤝 Sponsor or guest inquiries? podcast@milestonesandmotherhood.com [podcast@milestonesandmotherhood.com] 🔥Subscribe to More Than Milestones: Unfiltered on Substack for 2 exclusive bonus episodes every month: https://substack.com/@morethanmilestones [https://substack.com/@morethanmilestones]