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Latest Episodes:

What is “Tonic” Masculinity? – Episode# 777 Aug 13, 2024

Show notes

Cathy and Todd discuss the new language around healthy masculinity, inspired by Vice Presidential nominee Tim Walz, and they explore how men can embrace traditional masculine traits while also valuing and expressing compassion and kindness. They talk about the small happy things—those small, happy moments that not only boost our mood but also improve our overall perspective. They also discuss strategies for supporting men, women, boys and girls when it comes to mental wellness, emphasizing the importance of a balanced approach.

Normalizing Anxiety- Episode #776 Aug 06, 2024

Show notes

Cathy and Todd talk about anxiety and why it’s a completely normal part of life. They explain how anxiety isn’t just a response to stress but a built-in part of our survival system. Using the movie Inside Out 2, they show how anxiety, like the other emotions in the film, helps us navigate uncertainty and stay safe. They also offer practical tips for managing anxiety and discuss how accepting and understanding it can lead to greater adaptability and resilience.

Life Trajectories- Episode #775 Jul 30, 2024

Show notes

Cathy and Todd discuss life trajectories, emphasizing that success isn't confined to a single right path, way, class, major, or job. They highlight the importance of children trusting their instincts and their own knowledge as they go through life. They also explore how resilience and adaptability are developed through every setback, and how we can help our children feel supported and trusted as they navigate their experiences.

Balancing Cognitive Labor- Episode #774 Jul 23, 2024

Show notes

Cathy and Todd discuss cognitive labor, which is the mental effort and worry of anticipating needs, considering options, making decisions, and tracking progress in the home and with kids. They explore how it's connected to emotional and invisible labor and stress the importance of ongoing discussions to reduce resentment and ensure everyone feels seen and understood.

Balancing Presence, Thought, and Action in Parenting- Episode #773 Jul 16, 2024

Show notes

Todd and Cathy emphasize the importance of being present, thinking critically, and doing in parenting, and discussed the concept of human archetypes and the need to focus on the present moment. They also shared personal anecdotes about balancing 'being', 'doing', and 'thinking', and discussed the challenges of societal expectations and the importance of living authentically. Lastly, they addressed underlying issues in relationships, the importance of taking action, and the need to process emotions healthily.

The Pressure to Conform- Episode #772 Jul 09, 2024

Show notes

Cathy & Todd discuss why our kids feel pressure to conform, focusing on when it’s developmentally appropriate and when it may be cause for concern. They also discuss how adults feel the same pressure to conform, emphasizing why relating to our kids, rather than judging them, is more impactful for their learning and for maintaining our connection.

Difficult Conversations- Episode #771 Jul 02, 2024

Show notes

Todd and Cathy discuss the importance and value of difficult conversations in partnership and parenting, emphasizing the two extremes: complete avoidance or overbearing insistence on discussing things. They explore how to find a middle ground—being approachable and open, but also willing to set boundaries and agree to expectations. This approach allows for a home environment where real conversations are encouraged and practiced, and where everyone feels heard and comfortable sharing.

Novelty & Ordinary- Episode #770 Jun 25, 2024

Show notes

Todd and Cathy discuss what brings us joy when we are young versus what brings us joy when we are older. They also discuss agreements that can be made within a relationship to keep communication open and healthy. They share why it’s important to appreciate who we are and where we are now, rather than trying to return to a certain time, body, or mindset that may not align with who we have become.

Who is in the Brat Pack?- Episode #769 Jun 18, 2024

Show notes

Todd and Cathy discuss who's in the inner circle of the Brat Pack and who is Brat Pack adjacent based on their memories from the 80s and their experience with Andrew McCarthy’s Brat Pack Documentary. They discuss how growth and self-awareness play significant roles in the documentary, and why some individuals evolve faster than others. They also touch on Inside Out 2 and address a listener question about shifting generational cycles.

Women Unfolding- Episode #768 Jun 11, 2024

Show notes

Cathy and Todd discuss how women are socialized to become smaller and more restricted, and then begin to unwind and unfold this process once they become aware of what's happening. Cathy provides an overview of this in her Substack titled 'Women Unfolding,' explaining why this is the image she sees in her mind when she works with women. Todd shares his version of men unfolding, and they discuss songs that have parentheses in the title and debate whether or not those parentheses are necessary.

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