Episodes
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Hello, and welcome back to The Parent Doctor Podcast. I'm your host, Dr. Marissa Caudill. Please rate and follow this podcast to help spread this resource, and be sure to visit theparentdoctor.com to sign up for my newsletter or join the monthly book club, both are FREE!
Interested in working with me directly? Sign up for my monthly Office Hours call here.
In this episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Mona Sodhi, an obesity medicine specialist in Scottsdale, Arizona. Dr. Sodhi is at the forefront of obesity medicine, helping patients move beyond outdated diet-and-exercise narratives to embrace a more holistic approach to health.
Together, we explore a topic many parents worry about: how to foster a healthy relationship with food in our kids. Dr. Sodhi explains how childhood experiences, emotions, and even the way we talk about food shape lifelong habits. She highlights the importance of modeling positive self-talk and shifting the focus away from weight and dieting, instead emphasizing strength, energy, and mindful eating.
We also discuss the impact of sleep, stress, and movement—often overlooked but crucial to overall health. Dr. Sodhi shares simple, practical ways parents can support their children in developing lifelong healthy habits.
Of course, we talk about GLP-1 medications—their benefits, potential risks, and how they fit into a well-rounded approach to well-being. While these medications can be helpful, they’re not a quick fix.
If you’ve ever struggled with how to talk to your kids about food in a way that promotes balance and confidence, this episode is a must.
If you’d like to reach out to Dr. Mona, you can contact her via email at [email protected], or connect with her on social media: Instagram, LinkedIn and her Website.
Thanks for tuning in!
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Hello, and welcome back to The Parent Doctor Podcast. I'm your host, Dr. Marissa Caudill. Please rate and follow this podcast to help spread this resource, and be sure to visit theparentdoctor.com to sign up for my newsletter or join the monthly book club, both are FREE!
Interested in working with me directly? Sign up for my monthly Office Hours call here.
In this episode, I’m sharing one of the most personal stories of my life—a story about my father, his struggles, and how they’ve shaped the person and parent I am today.
My father’s journey was filled with challenges, from a traumatic childhood and undiagnosed dyslexia to battles with alcoholism that deeply affected our family. For years, our relationship was strained and unresolved. But in December 2023, during a Tony Robbins event, I experienced a profound spiritual awakening through a Ho’oponopono blessing—a practice of forgiveness and love.
What happened next was nothing short of life-changing: the discovery that my father passed away on the same day I sent those words of forgiveness into the universe. In that moment, I felt the interconnectedness of our lives in a way I had never understood before.
This experience strengthened my commitment to helping parents reflect on their own stories and break the cycles of trauma that often ripple through generations. I believe it’s never too late to heal, forgive, and create deeper, more connected relationships with our children.
I hope this story inspires you as much as it has transformed me.
Thanks for tuning in!
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Missing episodes?
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Hello, and welcome back to The Parent Doctor Podcast. I'm your host, Dr. Marissa Caudill. Please rate and follow this podcast to help spread this resource, and be sure to visit theparentdoctor.com to sign up for my newsletter or join the monthly book club, both are FREE!
Interested in working with me directly? Sign up for my monthly Office Hours call here.
In this episode, I’m thrilled to introduce my dear friend, Dr. Jennyfer Uzor, the founder and CEO of Allegra Family Pediatrics in Coconut Creek, Florida. Jennyfer’s journey is so inspiring—she left corporate medicine to build a pediatric practice that truly reflects her passion for healing. Her clinic is warm, beautiful, and accessible, designed to bring back the kind of care that families deserve.
Together, we explore a topic that every parent of tweens and teens needs to understand: mental health screenings during pediatric visits. As pediatricians and child psychiatrists, Jennyfer and I know how critical it is to identify mental health concerns early. We talk about the tools used (like the PHQ-9) to screen for depression and how these screenings are conducted with sensitivity and care.
Jennyfer shares her thoughtful approach to helping kids and families navigate tough situations, including what happens if a child screens positive for suicidal thoughts. I also offer my perspective on how larger healthcare systems sometimes fall short, leading to experiences that can feel impersonal or overwhelming. Together, we unpack how parents can ask the right questions to ensure their child’s care is handled thoughtfully.
This episode is about empowering you to advocate for your child’s mental health, knowing that screening is a powerful tool for early intervention.
Click HERE! to see copies of the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (CSSRS).
If you’d like to reach out to Dr. Jennyfer, you can contact her via email at [email protected], or connect with her on social media: Instagram and her Website
Thanks for tuning in!
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Hello, and welcome back to The Parent Doctor Podcast. I'm your host, Dr. Marissa Caudill. Please rate and follow this podcast to help spread this resource, and be sure to visit theparentdoctor.com to sign up for my newsletter or join the monthly book club, both are FREE!
Interested in working with me directly? Sign up for my monthly Office Hours call here.
In this episode, I sit down with Alex Chan, an entrepreneur, biohacker, and proud girl dad to a 10-year-old daughter conceived through IVF. Alex shares his journey from a 20-year corporate career to co-founding Alstro Ventures, a real estate investment firm, and the Human Wellness Center, which focuses on stem cell therapy and optimizing longevity.
We dive into Alex and his wife Jenny’s four-year struggle with infertility, the emotional challenges of IVF, and how that experience transformed his approach to parenting. Alex reflects on the importance of being intentional as a father, teaching confidence, fostering creativity, and prioritizing quality time.
Alex also shares how biohacking and health optimization have reshaped his life, giving him the energy to keep up with his daughter and focus on building generational wealth while balancing his career and family.
Whether you’re navigating fertility challenges, looking to connect more deeply with your kids, or curious about building wealth and health, Alex’s journey will leave you inspired.
If you’d like to reach out to Alex, you can contact him via email at [email protected], or connect with him on social media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itsalexchan
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsalexchan/ https://www.instagram.com/humanwellnesscenters/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsalexchan/
Website: https://alstroventures.com/ & https://humanwellnesscenters.com/
Thanks for tuning in!
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Hello, and welcome back to The Parent Doctor Podcast. I'm your host, Dr. Marissa Caudill. Please rate and follow this podcast to help spread this resource, and be sure to visit theparentdoctor.com to sign up for my newsletter or join the monthly book club, both are FREE!
Interested in working with me directly? Sign up for my monthly Office Hours call here.
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Theresa Rose Bajt, PhD a clinical psychologist and mom of two from Missouri, to talk about the ups and downs of parenting through life’s unexpected challenges. Dr. Bajt’s story is truly inspiring—she became a widow nine years ago and continued to parent with incredible strength, successfully launching her two sons into adulthood.
We dive into her fascinating research on Career Salience and First-Time Moms, where she explored how first-time mothers decide whether to stay in the workforce. Her findings reveal how emotional harmony often outweighs financial factors in these choices, offering valuable insights into family dynamics.
Dr. Bajt and I also discuss the biggest shifts in parenting since the 1990s, particularly the influence of technology and social media. She shares practical tips for fostering connection, such as creating device-free spaces and modeling intentional behaviors.
We touch on timeless lessons from Harry Harlow’s famous monkey experiments, emphasizing the need for both physical care and emotional security in parenting. Dr. Bajt also offers strategies for teaching kids resilience, building social skills, and prioritizing your own well-being as a parent.
If you’re looking for actionable advice and encouragement to navigate parenting with strength and grace, this episode is for you.
If you’d like to reach out to Jamie, you can contact her via email at [email protected], or connect with her on social media: LinkedIn and her Website.
Thanks for tuning in!
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Hello, and welcome back to The Parent Doctor Podcast. I'm your host, Dr. Marissa Caudill. Please rate and follow this podcast to help spread this resource, and be sure to visit theparentdoctor.com to sign up for my newsletter or join the monthly book club, both are FREE!
Interested in working with me directly? Sign up for my monthly Office Hours call here.
In this episode of The Parent Doctor Podcast, I’m joined by registered dietitian Jessica Siegel, MPH, RD, to discuss the transformative power of family meals and how to incorporate the Mediterranean diet into your family’s lifestyle.
Together, we explore the incredible health, social, and emotional benefits of shared meals—from improved nutrition and mental health to better relationships and communication. Jessica offers practical tips for picky eaters, emphasizing the importance of patience, exposure, and modeling healthy habits.
Did you know it can take up to 10 tries for kids to accept a new food? We talk about how to encourage exploration without pressure or frustration.
The Mediterranean diet serves as a flexible and sustainable framework for healthy eating, featuring plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats like extra virgin olive oil. Jessica shares easy strategies to incorporate these foods into your routine, from homemade salad dressings to simple meatless meals, and highlights the joy of involving kids in meal prep.
We also discuss how family meals create lasting connections, foster a positive relationship with food, and set the stage for lifelong healthy habits. Whether you’re navigating a busy schedule or looking for ways to make mealtime more meaningful, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration.
Tune in for a fresh perspective on parenting, feeding, and fostering connection—one meal at a time!
If you'd like to reach out to Jessica, you can contact her at [email protected], or connect with her on social media: Instagram, and her Website
Thanks for tuning in!
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Hello, and welcome back to The Parent Doctor Podcast. I'm your host, Dr. Marissa Caudill. Please rate and follow this podcast to help spread this resource, and be sure to visit theparentdoctor.com to sign up for my newsletter or join the monthly book club.If you’d like to work more closely with me in a small group coaching setting, please consider joining the Empowered Parent Inner Circle. The next cohort will be starting December, 2024, you can get on the waitlist here.
In this episode, we dive into the essential questions parents should consider when selecting a therapist or psychiatrist for their child. Jamie Given LMFT, owner of Given Guidance Family Counseling in La Crescenta, CA, and I discuss how parents can best screen a therapy provider to find one who will connect with their child, especially those who may be initially resistant to therapy. We also explore questions like: How does the therapist build rapport with children? and What can parents expect in those first sessions?
Additionally, we tackle the often-overlooked topic of how parents should be involved in their child's therapeutic journey. Jamie shares her practice's approach of starting with a parent session and keeping lines of communication open throughout, while also respecting confidentiality. We discuss when and how family involvement enhances therapy, as well as the complexities of confidentiality, especially when issues like substance use or trauma arise.
Jamie LMFT, also offers insights on how to manage insurance and reimbursement for therapy, as well as the importance of being proactive when seeking mental health support for your child. We talk about therapy intensity—whether once a week or more frequent sessions yield better results—and how to support a child in truly benefiting from their sessions.
Whether you're already navigating therapy for your child or considering it for the first time, this episode is full of practical advice to help you find the best fit for your family.
Tune in for a rich, informative conversation about making therapy a positive, empowering experience for your child and family. And for new parents, check out Jamie's program for navigating new parenthood at PreparingRelationships.com
If you’d like to reach out to Jamie, you can contact her via email at [email protected], or connect with her on social media: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and her Website
Thanks for tuning in!
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Hello, and welcome back to The Parent Doctor Podcast. I'm your host, Dr. Marissa Caudill. Please rate and follow this podcast to help spread this resource, and be sure to visit theparentdoctor.com to sign up for my newsletter or join the monthly book club, both are FREE!
Interested in working with me directly? Sign up for my monthly Office Hours call here.
In this episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Irena Smith—an accomplished author, mom of three, former Stanford lecturer, admissions officer, and private college admissions coach. I recently had Irena join my October book club to discuss Never Enough by Jennifer Breheny Wallace, which dives into toxic achievement culture, especially in “super zip” communities like Palo Alto, where high expectations and ambition can sometimes harm our kids.
Irena and I explore the college admissions process and how it’s become even more competitive in 2024. Reflecting on her experience at Stanford, where the acceptance rate has dropped from 12.5% to around 3% over the past 20 years, we discuss the pressures families face and why so many feel that getting into an elite school is crucial.
Irena shares insights from her memoir, The Golden Ticket: a life in college admissions essays, highlighting the impact of these pressures on teens who often feel crushed by expectations. For a deeper dive into the world of college admissions, be sure to check out Irena's book on Amazon: The Golden Ticket: A Life in College Admissions Essays.
Together, we explore how parents can help kids build a strong sense of self-worth early on, so they can face life’s challenges with resilience and a true sense of identity beyond grades or college acceptance. We also dive into the ways parental anxiety can shape kids’ ambitions and well-being, often unintentionally. Irena and I offer guidance on how to support children in embracing their natural strengths, pursuing their passions, and finding fulfillment. True success isn’t about getting into a particular school—it’s about helping our kids lead balanced, meaningful lives.
Join us for this enlightening conversation as we challenge conventional narratives around achievement and explore a healthier, more sustainable approach to raising resilient, self-assured kids.For more insights from Irena, be sure to follow her on Instagram at @irena.smith and check out her Substack for more valuable content at collegecurmudgeon.substack.com.
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Hello, and welcome back to The Parent Doctor Podcast. I'm your host, Dr. Marissa Caudill. Please rate and follow this podcast to help spread this resource, and be sure to visit theparentdoctor.com to sign up for my newsletter or join the monthly book club, both are FREE!
Interested in working with me directly? Sign up for my monthly Office Hours call here.
In this episode, I’m excited to introduce my new friend, Kerry Hew. Kerry is a father of three boys, and we met at a recent Speakers Institute event. He’s here to share his intentional approach to parenting, focusing on raising his sons to be confident communicators and preparing them for adulthood.
Kerry talks about a unique exercise he created with his boys to help build their communication skills. He had them record short, two-minute videos each day, working on public speaking and storytelling. Through consistent practice, they not only became more confident, but they also opened up about their daily lives, leading to deeper conversations that wouldn’t have happened otherwise.
This simple practice evolved into a 30-day course called "Raise the Rizz," which Kerry designed to help parents and kids strengthen their bond while developing important communication skills. Originally aimed at dads and sons, it’s now adapted for any parent-child combination. The course includes fun, practical exercises that build charisma and storytelling abilities in a low-pressure, engaging way.
Kerry and I also discuss the importance of communication in today’s digital world, where kids often spend more time on their phones than in face-to-face interactions. He shares how this exercise transformed his relationship with his sons, and how any parent can do something similar at home to build stronger connections.
If you’re looking for ways to help your child grow into a confident communicator while strengthening your relationship, this episode is full of practical advice and inspiration from Kerry’s experience.
You can connect with Kerry on his social media platforms:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerryhew/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kerry.hew/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kerry.hew/
X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/kerryhew/
And check out his website for more resources: https://www.raisetherizz.com.
I can’t wait for you to hear it!
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Hello, and welcome back to The Parent Doctor Podcast. I'm your host, Dr. Marissa Caudill. Please rate and follow this podcast to help spread this resource, and be sure to visit theparentdoctor.com to sign up for my newsletter or join the monthly book club, both are FREE!
Interested in working with me directly? Sign up for my monthly Office Hours call here.
In this bonus episode of The Parent Doctor Podcast, we tackle a critical topic: preparing ourselves and our children for their first smartphones. Drawing insights from my October 2024 webinar, we explore how smartphones, introduced almost two decades ago, have revolutionized our world and created unique challenges for parenting.
From the mental health impacts of social media to the importance of setting clear boundaries around screen time, this episode is packed with practical advice for empowering kids to use technology as a tool rather than being controlled by it. I also share strategies for having tough conversations about online safety, privacy, and the risks associated with apps, games, and social media.
Additionally, learn about my Empowered Parent Inner Circle (EPIC) program, a transformative six-week small-group coaching experience designed for parents of kids ages 5 and up. In this close-knit experience, you’ll be working side by side with other committed parents to define your family’s values, build stronger connections with your kids, and navigate modern parenting challenges with confidence. It’s an amazingly supportive community and we have a lot of fun!
Tune in to discover how to guide your kids through the smartphone journey with intention, compassion, and clarity. Let’s help our children thrive in a digital world while strengthening family bonds.
Interested in learning more about the EPIC program? Our next cohort starts December 4, 2024. Head over to epic.theparentdoctor.com for more details. If you’re catching up with this after that date, please get on the waitlist to be notified of the next open enrollment.
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Hello, and welcome back to The Parent Doctor Podcast. I'm your host, Dr. Marissa Caudill. Please rate and follow this podcast to help spread this resource, and be sure to visit theparentdoctor.com to sign up for my newsletter or join the monthly book club, both are FREE!
Interested in working with me directly? Sign up for my monthly Office Hours call here.
In this episode of The Parent Doctor, I sit down with Rudy Smith, an educator with over 30 years of experience, to dive into his personal journey through divorce, career transitions, and fatherhood. Rudy opens up about the emotional challenges of going through a divorce after 25 years of marriage while raising three children, including a 13-year-old daughter. He shares how he navigated that painful time and how co-parenting has evolved for him and his ex-wife.
Rudy also talks about the impact his high-pressure career had on his family and the pivotal moment when he decided to step away from his long-standing career in education to pursue a new path as a health entrepreneur. We explore how listening to his inner voice helped him make that life-altering decision, even though it was scary, and how it ultimately led him to a more present and fulfilling relationship with his children.
Throughout our conversation, Rudy reflects on the spiritual practices that have guided him through these transitions and how they’ve allowed him to find peace and resilience in the face of adversity. His story is a powerful reminder of the importance of staying true to ourselves, especially when it comes to balancing career and family life.
This episode touches on themes of authenticity, spirituality, and the deep impact our emotional well-being has on our children. I’m inspired by Rudy’s journey, and I think you’ll find his story both relatable and uplifting. Join us for an honest conversation about parenting, personal growth, and the courage it takes to create a life in alignment with who we really are.
If you'd like to reach out to Rudy, you can contact him at [email protected] or visit his website at http://blissfive.com.
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Hello, and welcome back to The Parent Doctor Podcast. I'm your host, Dr. Marissa Caudill. Please rate and follow this podcast to help spread this resource, and be sure to visit theparentdoctor.com to sign up for my newsletter or join the monthly book club, both are FREE!
Interested in working with me directly? Sign up for my monthly Office Hours call here.
In this episode of The Parent Doctor Podcast, I sit down with Nitin Agarwal, a life transformation coach and single dad to a 10-year-old daughter. Nitin shares his powerful journey, from growing up in India and facing intense academic competition, to moving frequently as a child, which helped him build resilience and adaptability.
Nitin talks openly about his experiences as a single father, the challenges he’s faced, and the joy of raising his daughter on his own. He shares how they’ve created a strong bond through daily routines like cooking together and keeping communication open. Nitin also highlights the importance of maintaining a positive mindset when navigating life’s hurdles, especially as a parent.
As a coach, Nitin explains how letting go of limiting beliefs can lead to personal growth and transformation. He offers practical advice on how anyone can shift their mindset to achieve the life they want, and his insights are especially valuable for single parents looking to create a supportive and nurturing environment for their children.
Whether you're a parent, a single parent, or simply looking for inspiration, Nitin’s story will remind you that with the right mindset, you can overcome any challenge. If you’d like to reach out to Nitin, you can email him at [email protected] or connect with him on Facebook.
Thanks for listening, and be sure to tune in next time!
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Hello, and welcome back to The Parent Doctor Podcast. I'm your host, Dr. Marissa Caudill. Please rate and follow this podcast to help spread this resource, and be sure to visit theparentdoctor.com to sign up for my newsletter or join the monthly book club, both are FREE!
Interested in working with me directly? Sign up for my monthly Office Hours call here.
In this video, I give tips to make the most of the "Golden years" - ages 5-12 - with our kids.
Get ready to step into a powerhouse community of parents who get it—who are right there with you, facing the same highs, lows, and heart-thumping moments of parenting! 🌟 These webinars? They’re just the sneak peek! The EPIC coaching program goes so much deeper, helping you unlock the true potential of both you and your child.
Imagine spending two transformative months with expert guidance, powerful tools, and personalized support! You’ll join forces with other committed parents and, together, become the family role model and leader you’ve always wanted to be. 🎉
In EPIC, you’ll have exclusive access to:
***1:1 and small group coaching where we tackle real-life challenges
***Lifetime access to my 8-week parenting course, packed with strategies you can revisit anytime (take a look at the Week 8 workbook below to see what’s waiting for you!)
***Direct access to me for 6 months in the private EPIC parents Whatsapp group
***Free access to Office Hours recordings for 6 months
Cost is $2497, but bring a friend and you both get $500 off with coupon code "FRIEND".
The next cohort launches right after Thanksgiving, and spots will go fast! Don’t miss your chance to be part of this empowering community. If this sounds good to you, go to https://www.theparentdoctor.com/epicwaitlist to join the waitlist and secure your spot!
If you'd like to schedule a call with me to learn how I can help you, please go to booking.theparentdoctor.com/30.
Thanks!
💕
Dr. Marissa
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Hello, and welcome back to The Parent Doctor Podcast. I'm your host, Dr. Marissa Caudill. Please rate and follow this podcast to help spread this resource, and be sure to visit theparentdoctor.com to sign up for my newsletter or join the monthly book club, both are FREE!
Interested in working with me directly? Sign up for my monthly Office Hours call here.
In this episode of The Parent Doctor podcast, I’m excited to welcome my friend Rachel, a serial entrepreneur and mother, to share her incredible journey of personal growth and parenting. Rachel has a unique story, having raised children at two very different stages of her life—first in her 20s and now again with her 7-year-old son. She offers deep insights into the challenges she faced as a young mom, navigating an unplanned pregnancy, divorce, and rediscovering herself along the way.
Rachel opens up about how she balanced college, a career, and motherhood after becoming pregnant at 20, and how that shaped her journey as a mother. She reflects on the importance of taking accountability for her actions and healing from her own childhood trauma, which led to a transformative shift in her relationship with her two adult daughters. By embracing vulnerability and personal responsibility, Rachel was able to rebuild a stronger, more fulfilling connection with her kids.
We also talk about our shared experience attending a public speaking intensive through the Speakers Institute. We both signed up for the event on a whim, but it ended up being a profound experience of growth for both of us, teaching us how to connect emotionally with others and tell our stories in an impactful way.
Rachel also shares her passion for self-improvement, which is evident in her career as the owner of Renuvole Body Solutions, a spa in Orange County, California. She introduces her latest venture, "No Tox Healer," which focuses on non-invasive, natural beauty treatments that are paired with inner healing. Her philosophy emphasizes that true beauty starts from within, and aligning the inner self with the outer appearance is the key to looking and feeling your best.
This episode is filled with heartfelt reflections on parenting, healing generational trauma, and stepping into personal accountability to create a better future for ourselves and our children. I hope you enjoy it!
Be sure to check out Rachel's website at renouvelebody.com for more on her work and services! If you'd like to contact Rachel directly, you can reach her at [email protected].
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Hello, and welcome back to The Parent Doctor Podcast. I'm your host, Dr. Marissa Caudill. Please rate and follow this podcast to help spread this resource, and be sure to visit theparentdoctor.com to sign up for my newsletter or join the monthly book club, both are FREE!
Interested in working with me directly? Sign up for my monthly Office Hours call here.
In this episode, I share the personal story behind "The Parent Doctor" and my mission to help parents become more than just "good enough." As a double board-certified adult and child psychiatrist, and a mom of two, I reflect on my own upbringing, the challenges my parents faced, and the generational patterns I’ve seen in over 17 years of clinical practice.
I open up about how my family history — including my father’s struggle with alcoholism and my grandparents’ experiences growing up during the Great Depression — has shaped my understanding of the cycles that can impact families for generations. Through my work as "The Parent Doctor," I aim to empower parents to break these cycles and build stronger, healthier relationships with their children.
I also talk about the research of psychologist Diana Baumrind, explaining how a parenting style that’s both firm and loving leads to the best outcomes for kids. I believe that by setting boundaries and providing structure, while also showing warmth and support, we can help our children develop emotional regulation, social skills, and resilience — and reduce the risk of problems like substance abuse later in life.
I’m deeply committed to supporting families in crisis, which is why 20% of "The Parent Doctor" profits go to organizations helping single mothers and families living in poverty. I want to help parents reflect on their own parenting, break harmful generational patterns, and strive for better-than-good-enough parenting.
If you're ready to be a cycle breaker and build deeper connections with your kids, this episode is for you! Tune in for insights, inspiration, and my own personal journey.
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Hello, and welcome back to The Parent Doctor Podcast. I'm your host, Dr. Marissa Caudill. Please rate and follow this podcast to help spread this resource, and be sure to visit theparentdoctor.com to sign up for my newsletter or join the monthly book club, both are FREE!
Interested in working with me directly? Sign up for my monthly Office Hours call here.
In this episode of The Parent Doctor Podcast, I’m excited to welcome Dr. Amy Mezulis, a clinical psychologist and co-founder of Joon, a telehealth practice dedicated to supporting teens through their mental health challenges (https://www.joon.com/therapist/amy-mezulis). Dr. Mezulis shares her journey from academia to launching Joon and talks about her passion for helping teens and their families navigate the current mental health crisis.
We dive into her recently published workbook for teens, designed to help them manage depression in a more engaging and accessible way. I love how this workbook invites teens to take ownership of their mental health instead of following rigid, clinical approaches. We discuss the importance of meeting teens where they are—whether that means starting with small behavioral changes or addressing the issues that matter most to them, like friendships or trauma, before tackling things like sleep routines or schoolwork.
We also explore how telehealth can be a game-changer for teens, offering them a more private, comfortable space to open up. Without the stress of in-person therapy or awkward car rides with parents, teens can engage in therapy on their own terms, often leading to better outcomes.
Dr. Mezulis shares some great insights on how therapists, teens, and parents can work together using a step-by-step approach—kind of like a “training plan”—to help teens build small, sustainable habits that lead to bigger changes. We talk about the challenges of getting parents on board with this approach, especially when academic or social pressures create a sense of urgency.
We also touch on how important it is for parents to understand that small progress is still progress. Meeting your child where they are isn’t about coddling them—it’s about loving and supporting them. Dr. Mezulis also gives us a closer look at Joon and how their telehealth platform is making a difference for teens and therapists alike across several states.
If you want to learn how to better support your teen’s mental health in today’s world, this episode is packed with practical tips and valuable insights! Please also check out her practice website at https://mezulispsychology.com/
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Hello, and welcome back to The Parent Doctor Podcast. I'm your host, Dr. Marissa Caudill. Please rate and follow this podcast to help spread this resource, and be sure to visit theparentdoctor.com to sign up for my newsletter or join the monthly book club, both are FREE!
Interested in working with me directly? Sign up for my monthly Office Hours call here.
In this episode of The Parent Doctor Podcast, I’m joined by fellow child psychiatrist Dr. Shivana Naidoo for a deep dive into Abigail Schreier’s book Bad Therapy. We have a lively discussion about the book’s controversial stance on mental health professionals and its take on the current crisis facing kids’ mental health.
Dr. Naidoo and I start by addressing the title, Bad Therapy, which we both feel unfairly blames therapists for the mental health struggles of today’s youth. Blaming doesn’t help anyone or lead to real solutions. We talk about our own experiences working on the front lines during the COVID-19 lockdown and how challenging it was to balance providing care with the expectations of advocating for larger systemic changes.
We also dive into how important it is for parents to carefully vet the professionals caring for their kids. Finding the right therapist is like choosing a surgeon—you need someone experienced and equipped to handle your child’s specific needs. Unfortunately, kids from lower-income families often get stuck with less experienced therapists, which can affect the care they receive.
Another key point we explore is the issue of diagnostic labels. Dr. Naidoo and I both see how kids can latch onto labels like ADHD or anxiety and use them as an identity or an excuse. While diagnoses can be helpful in guiding treatment, they shouldn’t define a child’s entire experience. Firm but loving parenting plays a crucial role in helping kids build resilience and learn to face challenges.
We also share our concerns about the impact of social media and excessive phone use on children’s mental health. Both of us agree that phones and social media are shaping kids’ identities in negative ways—shortening attention spans and increasing anxiety. Setting boundaries and having open conversations about online safety is more important than ever.
Finally, we touch on the role of medications in treatment. While meds can be useful, we both emphasize that they should never be the first or only option. Addressing a child’s broader environment—sleep, nutrition, social support—is critical before turning to medication.
This was such an engaging conversation, and I hope you find it as insightful as we did. Join us as we discuss the complexities of mental healthcare, parenting, and how modern challenges like social media are affecting our kids.
If you want to reach out to Dr. Shivana Naidoo, you can visit www.DoBetterMD.com or email [email protected]
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Hello, and welcome back to The Parent Doctor Podcast. I'm your host, Dr. Marissa Caudill. Please rate and follow this podcast to help spread this resource, and be sure to visit theparentdoctor.com to sign up for my newsletter or join the monthly book club, both are FREE!
Interested in working with me directly? Sign up for my monthly Office Hours call here.
In this episode of The Parent Doctor Podcast, I'm thrilled to welcome my friend Alex Crowell all the way from Australia. Alex is a midwife in private practice at New Life Midwifery and the owner of La Loba Herbalism. She is a mom of two, and host of the Your Birth, Your Way podcast . In today's episode, Alex shares her inspiring journey into midwifery. Like most people, her path to doing the work that is most aligned with her soul's purpose was not linear. Originally a journalism graduate, Alex discovered her passion for midwifery after reading about the politics of birth and experiencing traditional medicalized births for her two kids, which were not ideal. This new knowledge unlocked a passion in her to get trained as a midwife and led her to work unpaid for 18 months in a private practice so she could serve women outside the mainstream system, offering personalized, continuous, compassionate care to the women she serves.
We also dive into Alex’s experience as a homeschooling mom. When her eldest daughter struggled in the traditional school system, Alex trusted her instincts and made the brave decision to pull her daughter out of school. Over 18 months of independent schooling, Alex created an environment where her daughter could learn in a way that truly aligned with her needs. This experience ultimately helped her daughter return to school more confident and self-aware. Alex applied this same approach with her younger daughter, supporting her through her own unique educational journey.
In our conversation, Alex and I reflect on the importance of trusting your gut as a parent and recognizing that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to raising kids. We both talk about how our early paths were shaped by external expectations, but we eventually found our way to work that truly resonates with our deeper passions and purposes. We also discuss the challenges of balancing work and motherhood, with Alex sharing her experiences of setting boundaries while being on call for births and trying to stay present for her children.
This episode is a heartfelt exploration of following your soul’s purpose, trusting your instincts as a parent, and embracing flexibility in both parenting and life. I hope you’ll tune in to hear Alex’s inspiring story and our thoughtful reflections on balancing work, family, and personal fulfillment.
Be sure to follow Alex on Instagram at @la.loba.herbalism and @newlife_midwifery.
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Hello, and welcome back to The Parent Doctor Podcast. I'm your host, Dr. Marissa Caudill. Please rate and follow this podcast to help spread this resource, and be sure to visit theparentdoctor.com to sign up for my newsletter or join the monthly book club, both are FREE!
Interested in working with me directly? Sign up for my monthly Office Hours call here.
I’m thrilled to kick off Season 2 with an incredible conversation with my friend Candice Pueschel. Candice is a mom to four young girls -- all under the age of 6! She is a wife, a lawyer, a real estate investor, and an overall badass human living in the New Jersey suburbs of NYC. Together, we dive deep into the ups and downs of parenting, from the joys of raising kids to the unexpected challenges that come with it.
Candice shares her personal journey, including the emotional experience of discovering that her oldest daughter had developmental delays. She opens up about the self-blame and uncertainty she faced, and how she learned to trust her instincts and seek early intervention. We discuss the importance of finding support and community during those tough times, and how that helped her navigate the complexities of parenting.
We also explore what self-care truly means—beyond the spa days and manicures—and how it’s about finding what genuinely nurtures your soul. For Candice, that includes meditation, journaling, and therapy. We talk about the importance of taking care of ourselves so that we can show up as the best version of ourselves for our families. Candice emphasizes the value of delegating responsibilities and letting go of the need to do it all, something that has been crucial for her mental well-being.
This episode is a heartfelt exploration of the realities of parenting, the importance of self-development, and the ongoing work of becoming the best version of ourselves for the sake of our families. Whether you’re new to parenting or have been on this journey for years, I hope you find this conversation as insightful and encouraging as I did.
If you’d like to get in touch with Candice, you can reach her at [email protected].
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Welcome back to another episode! If you'd like to receive my weekly newsletter, please sign up here. And you can also sign up for my free monthly book club here. I'll be talking about how to raise kids who aren't spoiled this Wednesday, July 17 at 12 PM PST, presenting Ron Lieder's excellent book "The Opposite of Spoiled".
In this final episode of season one of the Parent Doctor Podcast, Dr. Marissa Caudill reflects on the common mental health issues children face that she discussed earlier in the season. She then goes on to highlight a significant shift in her healing approach over recent years. Traditionally, medical training, particularly in mental health, focuses on diagnosing and labeling problems. This practice is driven by the healthcare system, where a diagnosis is essential for insurance billing. Consequently, doctors often feel compelled to find a diagnosis to ensure payment, even if it means overlooking deeper, underlying issues.
This system is especially problematic for children. When children display symptoms like behavioral issues or anxiety, there are often underlying reasons, but the current system prioritizes assigning a diagnosis and prescribing medication rather than exploring familial and environmental factors that may contribute to a child's symptoms.
Dr. Caudill provides examples to illustrate her point. She has treated children of undocumented immigrants who live under constant fear of deportation, leading to immense stress. Such situations might be mislabeled as anxiety disorders when the real issue is the family's precarious situation. Similarly, children who have lost a parent experience profound grief, which might be incorrectly diagnosed as depression. In these cases, addressing the family's emotional dynamics and providing appropriate therapy can be more beneficial than merely prescribing medication.
A key insight Dr. Caudill shares is the importance of recognizing that our true selves are separate from our bodies and minds. Despite physical changes over time, our core identity remains constant. Our true self existed before we were born and will remain after our bodies die. Our true self can never be "ill".
Mental illnesses stems from an overactive "downstairs brain"—the part of our brain responsible for survival instincts (amygdala and limbic system). This overactivity can and often does dominate our thoughts and behaviors, leading to various mental health issues.
To manage this, we need to learn ways to shift control to our "upstairs brain" (prefrontal cortex) or, ideally, even beyond that, to the awareness of our true self. Practicing mindfulness and connecting with our true selves can help us recognize and manage the signals from our downstairs brain.
Dr. Caudill emphasizes four pillars of empowered parenting, achieved by connecting with our true selves, which provides a source of infinite patience and endless love:
Defining Direction: Leading families with clear values and goals, involving children in this process to help them form their identities. Helping our kids connect with their true selves will help them so much throughout their lives.
Emotion Regulation: Demonstrating control over our emotions to set an example for our children. By connecting to our true self, we tap into a resource of infinite patience and love.
Practicing Gratitude: Regularly recognizing and sharing our abundance, which fosters a sense of security and happiness. In doing so, we further embrace our safe true self, and disengage from the survival brain.
Embracing Failure: Failure is fertilizer for growth. When we are sure of our true self, we don't have to be afraid of failure.
These principles help parents and children manage stress and reduce the risk of mental illness. Dr. Caudill invites parents to engage in future episodes by sharing their challenges and experiences. Recordings for season two will resume in August. If you’d like to join me on an episode, please email [email protected].
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