In this heartfelt and thought-provoking episode, hosts Scott and Jess explore the complex relationship between food, parenting, and childhood development. Inspired by a viral social media post about body image and food messaging, they explore how parents can foster healthy relationships with food by focusing on family rituals, mindful eating, and meaningful connection rather than restriction. Jess and Scott share personal experiences, including their own family dinner traditions and weekend donut rituals. They reveal how food struggles often point to unmet relational needs and offer practical ways to approach these challenges with empathy and understanding. Some important topics discussed in the episode include: Food as Connection: Discover how food issues often reflect underlying relationship dynamics. Positive Memories: Learn how to create meaningful rituals that build healthy associations with food. Mindful Eating: Equip your children with tools to develop a balanced and intuitive approach to eating. This episode offers valuable insights for parents looking to nurture a happy, healthy attitude toward food in their families. If you want to hear more from Jess and Scott about food and eating, listen to “Is It Healthy Eating, Or Is It Trauma? Unpacking Scott’s Relationship With Food”.  Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Learn more about The Body Safety Toolkit here! Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First

In this episode, Jess and Scott answer a listener's question about sharing the mental load of parenting. Jess talks about times when she felt like she carried most of the mental load and how Scott and her now split the work of parenting. They discuss the challenges of balancing roles, especially when one parent feels like the default decision-maker, educator, and emotional support. Key takeaways for listeners include: How to approach conversations about mental load in a way that strengthens your partnership. Strategies to encourage reluctant partners to engage more fully in the parenting journey. Ideas for setting boundaries and creating shared responsibilities so neither parent feels solely responsible. Whether you feel overwhelmed as the default parent or want to be a more engaged partner, this episode offers practical wisdom for creating a united parenting team. Don't miss Jess and Scott's candid discussion of their own parenting journey and struggles! During the episode, Jess mentions an episode with Josh, a skeptical dad. You can listen to his episode here. Want more support on your parenting journey? Check out our incredible blog full of articles & advice here.  Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Learn more about The Body Safety Toolkit here! Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First

In this laughter-filled episode, Scott and Jess dive into the delicate balance of teasing and playfulness with kids. They discuss how to be playful without going too far, share hilarious stories about their family's creative characters like "Sean" the hand puppet, and provide practical tips for connecting with children through humour. Some important topics discussed in the episode include: Recognizing how a child's understanding of humour develops with age Respecting boundaries around teasing Using playfulness as a tool to connect with kids and diffuse tense situations Listeners will gain valuable strategies for bringing more fun and laughter into their parenting while avoiding potentially hurtful teasing. Do you want to be a more playful parent but aren’t sure where to start? The Playful Parent Toolkit is full of easy games and playful tools to do with your kids. Learn more about The Playful Parent Toolkit here. Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Learn more about The Body Safety Toolkit here! Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First

In this episode, Jess and Scott dive into the challenges of parenting multiple children and giving each child the love and attention they need. Inspired by a viral social media post, they explore topics like balancing attention between babies and older kids, feelings of guilt and defensiveness as parents, and how children crave connection at all ages. They provide helpful tips for recognizing children's bids for quality time, healing past parenting missteps, and finding small moments to connect amidst the chaos of family life. This heartfelt discussion offers both validation and practical tips for parents in the thick of raising multiple kids. Check out the Instagram post Jess reads here.  Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Learn more about The Body Safety Toolkit here! Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First

CW: Sexual abuse, grooming, sex-related topics After hearing news about a case of sexual abuse in their community, Jess and Scott are sitting down and answering listener questions about how to talk to kids about body safety and consent in a way that won’t scare kids and will protect them. They provide practical advice for parents on how to have age-appropriate conversations about consent, private parts, and safe/unsafe touches without instilling fear. Some of the specific topics they address include: At what age you should start having these conversations The power of using anatomically correct terms with children How and why you should create a "safe team" of trusted adults for your children Jess’ opinion on sleepovers and unsupervised playtime This episode equips parents with essential tools to empower and safeguard their children while preserving their innocence. Learn more about supporting kids with body safety, big feelings, and so much more from our Nurtured First blog. If you want more resources to teach your child about body safety and consent, check out The Body Safety Toolkit! Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First

In this powerful episode, Scott and Jess are joined by Samir Mourani to have an open and vulnerable conversation about men's mental health. They discuss their personal experiences with anxiety, depression, and emotional breakdowns, sharing how they've worked to overcome societal pressures that discourage men from expressing emotions. A few important topics covered in the episode include: The importance of having close male friendships where you can be vulnerable How bottling up emotions often leads to them coming out as anger later Ways to model healthy masculinity and emotional expression for children The healing power of therapy, medication, and having a supportive partner Finding hope even in the darkest moments of mental health struggles This raw and honest discussion aims to reduce the stigma around men's mental health and encourage listeners to seek help if they're struggling. This conversation is an uplifting reminder that no one is alone in these challenges. Hear more from Samir on Instagram. Listen to Samir’s Ted Talk “Redefining My Masculinity” here.  Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Learn more about The Body Safety Toolkit here! Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First

In this fun and casual Q&A episode, Jess and Scott answer listener questions and give you a peek behind the curtain of their lives and relationship. Discover Scott's favourite quality about Jess, hear about their most rewarding parenting moments and learn how they handle disagreements. They share vulnerable insights about managing social anxiety as public figures and discuss mindset shifts that help them appreciate the challenges of parenting. With plenty of laughs and a few deep moments, this episode offers a chance to get to know Jess and Scott on a more personal level. You'll come away with practical parenting tips and a renewed appreciation for savouring the small moments with your kids. Listen to Jess on Samir’s podcast “Gent’s Talk” here.  Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First  using the code ROBOTUNICORN. Learn more about The Body Safety Toolkit here! We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First

Jess and Scott discuss the delicate balance between nurturing children's friendships and maintaining strong parent-child bonds. They discuss the concept of peer orientation, share personal experiences, and offer practical advice for parents navigating their children's social worlds. Key insights include: 1. The importance of modelling healthy relationships at home 2. How to recognize signs of unhealthy peer orientation 3. Strategies for prioritizing family time while supporting friendships Whether you're concerned about your child's social life or simply want to foster positive relationships, this episode provides valuable guidance for parents with kids of all ages. Don't miss this thoughtful discussion on one of parenting's most crucial topics! Want to help your child feel confident navigating friendship struggles and build safe and trusted friendships? Check out our new Nurtured First toolkit: The Friendship Toolkit. Don’t forget to use code ROBOTUNICORN at checkout for 10% off! Get 10% OFF all parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Learn more about The Body Safety Toolkit here! Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First

In this solo episode, Jess shares her reflections on a recent conversation she had. The conversation was about whether or not children should hear the word “no” and how parents who follow “this new wave of gentle parenting” are no longer the leaders in their homes. In the episode, Jess shares her thoughts on this view and tackles a common misconception about gentle parenting - that it's too permissive and doesn't allow for setting boundaries. She explains the crucial differences between permissive, authoritarian, and authoritative parenting styles, emphasizing that effective discipline combines warmth with firm boundaries. Jess shares her expert knowledge and advice on: Why it's important and loving to say "no" to children How to be a calm leader for kids during challenging moments How setting boundaries helps kids learn to navigate disappointment How setting boundaries teaches kids to question authority appropriately With relatable examples and research-backed information, this episode provides valuable guidance for parents seeking to strike the right balance between empathy and structure. Jess mentions an episode with her friend Josh, and you can listen to that episode here. If you want to learn more about the different parenting styles Jess talks about in the episode, check out this blog post.  You’ll also find the research Jess refers to referenced at the end of the blog. Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Learn more about The Body Safety Toolkit here! Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First

In this solo episode, Jess answers a listener's question. She explores how to become curious about and respond to children’s challenging behaviours like hitting. She breaks down four key reasons why children may hit and provides practical strategies for addressing each root cause. In the episode, Jess covers: How to get curious about why your child is hitting (or engaging in other challenging behaviours) Proactive ways to meet children's needs before hitting occurs How to respond to the big feelings that come after you’ve set a boundary around hitting Recognizing that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to hitting Packed with real-life examples and actionable tips, this episode gives parents powerful tools to move beyond basic consequences and truly support their child's growth and development. It is a must-listen for any parent struggling with hitting or other challenging behaviours. In the episode, Jess mentions her Parenting Little Kids course. You can learn more about the course here, and use the code ROBOTUNICORN for 10% off any Nurtured First parenting course or printable toolkit! [https://nurturedfirst.com/courses/] We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Learn more about The Body Safety Toolkit here! Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First

In this episode, Jess and Scott sit down with their good friend Josh to discuss the changes he’s made in his parenting style over the last six years. Josh candidly shares his experience raising his highly sensitive son. He talks about how a more traditional approach to discipline wasn’t working and his original skepticism around gentle parenting. This episode is packed with insights for fathers (and parents in general) who might be struggling to find effective ways to discipline without resorting to punitive methods. Listeners will hear about: Josh’s initial resistance to “gentle parenting” and his transition into authoritative parenting. The challenges of raising a highly sensitive child and learning how to support their emotional development. How gentle parenting isn’t permissive but focuses on teaching emotional regulation and healthy boundaries. The emotional shift Josh experienced when he realized his traditional approaches weren’t working, and how his openness to change improved his relationship with his son. Practical tips for parents who feel unsure about how to manage big emotions and meltdowns. In the episode, Josh mentions a podcast episode that changed his parenting journey. Listen to Jess on the Gent’s Talk podcast here.  Josh also mentions he owns his own landscaping business. You can find his info here. Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Learn more about The Body Safety Toolkit here! Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin  Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First

In this important episode, Jess and Scott dive deep into the root cause of challenging behaviours in both children and adults: separation. Jess explains how our core need for closeness drives many of our reactions, from clingy children to angry adults. Jess shares some eye-opening insights on: Why behaviours like clinging, whining, and crying happen Why kids are so angry all the time Why common parenting strategies make behaviour worse How separation emotions manifest as frantic pursuit, anger, and eventually apathy Why "attention-seeking" behaviours are actually attempts to reconnect The importance of allowing children (and ourselves) to feel sadness and shed tears Real-life examples of helping children through separation struggles Listeners will gain a new perspective on behaviours they may have labelled as "defiance" or "acting out" and learn practical strategies for rebuilding closeness and connection. Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. Do you have a question you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email to podcast@robotunicorn.net and let us know. We’d love to hear from you! Learn more about The Body Safety Toolkit here! Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First

In this insightful episode, clinical psychologist Dr. Tanya Cotler joins Jess and Scott to explore the complexities of intergenerational trauma and cycle-breaking in parenting. Dr. Cotler shares her expertise on how childhood experiences shape our parenting, the importance of curiosity and compassion in understanding our triggers, and practical ways to build self-awareness and cope with parenting challenges. Listeners will gain valuable insights on: How our bodies hold onto past traumas and how they can resurface in parenting The concept of "repair mapping" to reflect on difficult parenting moments Finding a balance between productivity and mindful pauses as a parent Reframing children's challenging behaviours as opportunities for growth This deep and honest conversation offers both professional wisdom and personal examples to help parents navigate their own healing journeys while raising emotionally healthy children. It is a must-listen for anyone looking to break generational cycles and create more connected relationships with their kids. Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. Learn more about The Body Safety Toolkit here! Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First

In this revealing episode, Jess and Scott dive deep into why a messy house is a major trigger for Jess. They explore how their different upbringings shaped their attitudes towards cleanliness, with Jess craving order while Scott is more relaxed about clutter. Jess opens up about feeling overwhelmed by visual chaos and struggling to be present with her kids when the house is messy. They share practical strategies they've found helpful, like setting boundaries around eating spaces and getting rid of excess toys. Listeners will gain insight into managing their own triggers around household mess, communicating needs to partners, and finding a balance between cleanliness and embracing the chaos of family life. Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. Learn more about The Body Safety Toolkit here! Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin  Artwork by Wallflower Studio  Production by Nurtured First 

In this controversial episode, Jess and Scott dive into the heated debate around sending kids to daycare. They explore the "mommy wars" between stay-at-home and working parents - unpacking the guilt, judgement, and insecurities on both sides. Jess offers a nuanced perspective, explaining how quality childcare providers can be an important part of a family’s "village” and how a strong parent-child attachment can be built whether a child is in childcare or at home. Listeners will gain insights on: How to preserve attachment even when using childcare. The importance of finding caregivers who truly connect with your child. Ways to stay connected and present during the time you do have together. This balanced discussion aims to ease parents' guilt and encourage more compassion, reminding us we're all just trying to do our best for our kids. Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. Learn more about The Body Safety Toolkit here! Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First

In this eye-opening episode, Jess delves deep into the concept of "strong-willed children" and challenges common assumptions about defiant behaviour. Listeners will gain fresh insights on: Why the "strong-willed" label can be problematic and miss underlying needs. How sensitivity, power dynamics, and leadership struggles contribute to defiance. Practical strategies for addressing stubborn behaviour through curiosity and connection. Ways to provide healthy control and meet children's needs for autonomy. The importance of consistent, empathetic leadership as a parent. Whether you have a so-called "strong-willed child" or simply want to better understand challenging behaviour, this episode offers a compassionate new perspective and actionable tips to transform your relationship with your child. Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. Learn more about The Body Safety Toolkit here! Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First

In this episode, Jess and Scott dive deep into the challenges of infant and toddler sleep and parenting through sleep deprivation. Jess opens up about her struggles as a new mom trying to follow rigid sleep training rules and how she eventually found a more attuned, connection-based approach. In the episode, Jess and Scott discuss: The pitfalls of strictly following sleep training methods without considering your child's unique needs. How postpartum anxiety can fuel obsession over sleep schedules. Mindset shifts that can help parents cope better with nighttime wakings. Why attunement and trusting your parental instincts is so important. Listeners will gain valuable insights on finding a balance between sleep strategies and responding to their child's needs, as well as practical tips for staying calm during those long nights. This raw and honest conversation is a must-listen for any parent struggling with sleep issues. Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. Learn more about The Body Safety Toolkit here! Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First

One of the most common questions Scott and Jess get about Robot Unicorn is: “Was your communication always this good? How did you learn to be less defensive and stop fighting in your relationship?” In this episode, Scott and Jess dive into their journey from high school sweethearts to happily married parents. They share valuable insights on: - How to move past defensiveness and truly listen to your partner - The importance of anticipating each other's needs - Why validating feelings isn't enough - you need to get curious - How to have difficult conversations without accusations or blame - Building a foundation of safety and trust in your relationship Listeners will gain practical tips for improving communication with their partner, even during challenging seasons of life. Scott and Jess's honest, unscripted conversation offers a relatable look at the work required to build a strong relationship. Whether you're newlyweds or long-time partners, this episode has the wisdom to help take your communication to the next level. Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. Learn more about The Body Safety Toolkit here! Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin  Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First

This episode was so incredible that it was hard to choose a title. Other possible titles for this episode included: “How To Heal Your Trauma While Parenting” “Mothering When You Have A Difficult Relationship With Your Mother.” “Breaking Cycles Of People Pleasing And Finding Your Authentic Self.” In this episode of Robot Unicorn, Jess and Scott welcome special guest Libby Ward, founder of Diary of an Honest Mom. Libby opens up about her journey of setting boundaries with her parents, healing from childhood trauma, and finding her authentic self as a mother. The conversation dives deep into the challenges of cycle-breaking parenting, dealing with family judgment when setting boundaries, and learning to regulate emotions as an adult. Listeners will gain valuable insights on: • How to set boundaries with family members, even when it's difficult. • The importance of accountability and repair in healing relationships. • Strategies for regulating emotions and breaking generational cycles. • Finding your authentic self after years of people-pleasing. This raw, honest discussion offers hope and practical advice for anyone working to heal from past trauma and create a healthier family dynamic. It is a must-listen episode for parents seeking to break cycles and nurture stronger relationships. Hear more from Libby on Instagram!  Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. Learn more about The Body Safety Toolkit here! Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First

In this episode, Jess and Scott discuss a recent incident in which their child told them that she doesn’t feel like they spend enough time with her. Jess unpacks her feelings of guilt around being a working mom, and Scott helps her understand the deeper reasons behind this guilt. They explore the struggles of dividing time and attention between sick kids and their other children who still crave connection. Jess opens up about her fears, as a parenting expert, of not being a good enough parent herself and the challenges of transitioning from being a stay-at-home mom to working outside the home more. Through the conversation, they realize the importance of validating their children's feelings while also helping them build resilience in handling disappointment. Jess and Scott provide an honest look at the guilt many parents face and share insights on navigating these complex emotions. Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. Learn more about The Body Safety Toolkit here! Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin  Artwork by Wallflower Studio  Production by Nurtured First