Helping Families Be Happy Familius

In this enriching episode, Christopher Robbins dives into a captivating discussion with Brad Berger, the ingenious mind behind countless family games. They traverse the realm of game creation and its profound impact on forming personal connections, enhancing family bonding, and fostering discoveries through play. This exploration uncovers the essence of games as tools for learning, engagement, and understanding within the dynamics of family and relationships. 
Episode Highlights:
- **00:00:09** - Christopher Robbins introduces the podcast, setting the stage for an exploration into the significance of games in family bonding and relationships. Robbins, a father of nine and a figure of diverse interests, shares his vision of bringing insightful content on love, family, and life. His introduction lays a foundation for an engaging dialogue that promises to unravel the layers of creating meaningful connections through games. 
- **00:01:10** - Brad Berger is introduced, offering a glimpse into his lifelong fascination with games and their developmental potential. This segment highlights Berger's journey from inventing games in childhood to using them as tools for education and social bonding. The narrative delves into how Berger's passion for games is not just about entertainment but about fostering personal discovery and connections among people, irrespective of their geographical locations. 
- **00:01:54** - A warm exchange signals the start of the conversation, with Brad sharing his extensive experience in game creation. Through laughs and anecdotes, Brad reflects on how his unique approach to everyday conversations turning them into games reveals much about his creativity and passion for engaging people. This interaction not only opens up Brad's world of game invention but also sets a lighthearted and curious tone for the discussion. 
- **00:03:01** to **00:03:37** - Brad discusses the sheer volume of games he has created, emphasizing his dedication and innovative approach to game design. He shares insights into his creative process, showcasing how constant experimentation and feedback have been crucial in refining his ideas. This portion offers listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the mind of a prolific game creator, highlighting both his creative prowess and the impact of his games on fostering connection. 
- **00:04:05** - The discussion transitions into what games reveal about people, from competitiveness to creative tendencies. Brad's classification of players into quadrants based on their competitive nature provides a framework for understanding diverse personalities. This segment enriches the conversation by bringing to light the nuanced ways games can serve as mirrors to our behaviors and inclinations. 
- **00:07:01** to **00:07:36** - Brad's observations on how people's competitive spirits evolve with age lend depth to the dialogue, revealing the transformative power of play across different life stages. This reflection on changing dynamics adds a layer of complexity to understanding how games can be adapted to suit varying age groups and competitiveness levels. 
- **00:08:31** - The narrative explores the fundamental allure of games, touching upon the inherent human love for play, competition, and the journey of the game itself. Brad's insights into why games captivate us beyond mere winning unravel the emotional and psychological dimensions of gaming, making this segment pivotal in understanding games’ universal appeal. 
- **00:10:04** - With a focus on crafting engaging games, Brad shares his methodology, revealing the diversity in game categories and the thoughtful consideration behind each creation. This detailed breakdown not only sheds light on Brad's creative process but also offers potential game designers valuable insights into crafting compelling gaming experiences. 
- **00:14:01** - The conversation takes a practical turn, with Brad suggesting games suitable for road trips, illustrating h

In this heartwarming episode of *Helping Families Be Happy*, Christopher Robbins engages in a profound conversationwith Tal Iyer, exploring the multifaceted role of fatherhood, the impact of authoritative parenting, and the art of creating deepconnections with children. Iyer, known for his significant achievements across various spheres, delves into his personaljourney of embracing 'dad mode,' sharing insights from his book, "Dad Mode: 25 Ways to Connect With Your Children."Through stories of personal growth, the necessity of intellectual humility, and the power of stories, Robbins and Iyer unfolda guide for fathers striving for meaningful relationships with their offspring.**Episode Highlights:**- **00:00:09:** The episode kicks off with Christopher Robbins warmly welcoming listeners and introducing thepodcastâ€TMs mission to explore family, love, and relationships. Robbins introduces Tal Iyer, highlighting his diversebackground from athletics to international business, and sets the stage for a discussion on the essence of 'dad mode.'- **00:01:08:** Tal Iyer corrects the pronunciation of his spouse's name, setting a humorous and light-hearted tone for theepisode. This moment not only breaks the ice but also humanizes the conversation, inviting listeners into a more intimatedialogue about family and fatherhood.- **00:02:21:** Iyer shares his enchantment with the Swiss Alps, drawing a vivid picture of his idyllic family life, which servesas a foundation for the podcast's exploration of the art and effort involved in creating meaningful connections with children.- **00:03:03:** The concept of 'dad mode' is introduced by Iyer as an art of focused effort toward building a warm emotionalconnection with children. This insight emphasizes the episode's core message: effective fatherhood transcends perfectionto embrace presence and effort.- **00:04:19:** Iyer discusses the applicability of 'dad mode' across various stages of a child's life, highlighting its relevancenot only for young children but also for maintaining connections with adult offspring. This part of the conversation brings tolight the universality of paternal love and the ongoing nature of fatherhood.- **00:05:53:** The discussion shifts to authoritative parenting, where Iyer shares insights into balancing supportivenesswith demands. This approach, as described by Iyer, encapsulates the essence of effective parenting, where expectations arecoupled with empathy and encouragement.- **00:07:52:** A practical conversation ensues on managing screen time, a contemporary parental challenge. Iyer shares hisstrategies, blending authoritative parenting with practical tools like a bamboo box for phones. This segment is particularlyrelatable for listeners grappling with similar issues.- **00:10:52:** Robbins shares his experience with technology and parenting, emphasizing the value of delayed gratificationin the digital age. This reflection prompts a broader conversation on setting expectations and norms within the familystructure.- **00:12:27:** Iyer champions the power of observation in parenting, inspiring fathers to engage in the reflective practice ofnoticing and appreciating the unique characteristics and interests of their children.- **00:16:19:** Intellectual humility in parenting is explored. Iyer makes a compelling case for acknowledging fallibility anddemonstrating growth, reshaping the narrative around parental authority and mutual respect.- **00:19:02:** The episode delves into creating family vision and mission statements, a process that strengthens familialbonds and clarifies collective values and aspirations.**Key Takeaways:**
Show Notes By Barevalue- 'Dad mode' is more about presence, effort, and consistent engagement with children than aiming for paternal perfection. -The balance of supportiveness and demands encapsulates effective authoritative parenting, fostering resilience and growthin children.- Intellectual humility and the ability to admit when o

Episode Summary 
In this heartfelt episode of the Helping Families Be Happy podcast, host Christopher Robbins converses with author Abigail Calkin, exploring the nuanced world of military families, love, relationships, and the challenges of PTSD. Abigail shares her journey as a military spouse and discusses her book, *The Soul of My Soldier*. The discussion also delves into the importance of understanding and supporting veterans with PTSD, and the therapeutic power of writing and poetry in healing and coping with the aftermath of military service. 
Episode Highlights 
- **00:00:10 - Introduction**: Christopher Robbins introduces the podcast, focusing on the complex dynamics of family, love, and relationships. He outlines the episode's objective of understanding and supporting military families through the lens of Abigail Calkin's experiences and literary work. 
- **00:01:14 - Abigail Calkin's Background**: Robbins details Abigail Calkin's achievements and publications, highlighting her literary contributions that span poetry, fiction, non-fiction, and analyses of behavioral psychology. Calkin's diverse work reflects a deep exploration of human emotion, relationships, and the psychological impacts of military life. 
- **00:02:32 - Welcome to Abigail Calkin**: Robbins warmly welcomes Abigail Calkin to the podcast. This introduction sets the stage for an intimate and profound discussion about military life, love, and the power of writing. 
- **00:02:45 - Building a Life in Alaska**: Calkin shares her intriguing journey to Alaska, where she and her family built a life, highlighting her hands-on approach and the significance of community and environment in her writing and personal growth. 
- **00:03:20 - Inspiration behind *The Soul of My Soldier***: Calkin discusses the emotional triggers and inspirations for writing her book, rooted in her experiences and observations as a military spouse, particularly during her husband's deployment to Desert Storm. 
- **00:06:30 - A Reading from *The Soul of My Soldier***: Abigail reads a poignant excerpt from her book, conveying the profound emotional and psychological scars left by war, not only on the soldiers but also on their families. 
- **00:09:17 - Understanding Veterans and PTSD**: Calkin provides insight into living with and supporting veterans with PTSD. She emphasizes patience, understanding, and the importance of communication, sharing personal anecdotes to illuminate the challenges and strategies for coping. 
- **00:11:28 - Audience Engagement and Reception**: Robbins and Calkin discuss the diverse reactions to *The Soul of My Soldier* from military and civilian readers alike, highlighting the book's impact and the varied perspectives on military service and its aftermath. 
- **00:16:22 - Honoring and Supporting Veterans**: Calkin articulates thoughtful and meaningful ways to honor, support, and understand veterans. She reflects on both personal gestures and broader societal acknowledgments that contribute to recognizing and appreciating veterans' sacrifices. 
- **00:20:25 - Closing Remarks and Contact Information**: The episode concludes with Robbins thanking Calkin for her insights and contributions. Calkin shares her contact information, inviting listeners to explore her work further. 
Key Takeaways 
- The emotional and psychological challenges faced by military families, particularly those dealing with PTSD, require patience, understanding, and open communication. 
- Writing and poetry can serve as powerful therapeutic tools for expressing and coping with the complexities of military life and its impacts on soldiers and their families. 
- Honoring and supporting veterans involves both personal gestures of kindness and societal efforts to recognize and appreciate their sacrifices and service. 
Show Notes By Barevalue
Tweetable Quotes 
- *"Understanding and supporting our veterans with PTSD requires patience, compassion, and the willingness to listen." - Abi

In this heartfelt episode of Helping Families Be Happy, host Adina Oberman, a devoted mother and children's book enthusiast, invites Dr. Cynthia Weill, a renowned art historian and Director of the Center for Children"s Literature at Bank Street College, to dive deep into the significance of children"s literature in early education. Together, they explore the transformative power of books in nurturing young minds, the invaluable resources offered by Bank Street College, and Dr. Weill's personal journey in the realm of children's literature. 
Episode Highlights
**00:00:10 - Introduction**  
Adina Oberman introduces the podcast and its alignment with Famis habits, welcoming Dr. Cynthia Wilde to discuss her extensive work in children's literature. Adina shares her background and excitement about discussing early childhood and literature, setting the stage for a conversation centered around educational practices, children's books, and their impact on families and educators. 
**00:01:39 - Dr. Cynthia Weill Joins the Conversation**  
Dr. Weill expresses her gratitude for being part of the podcast and sets a warm and engaging tone for the discussion that follows. 
**00:01:43 - Bank Street's Contribution to Early Childhood and Literature**  
Dr. Weill provides an in-depth overview of Bank Street College's history, its educational philosophy influenced by Lucy Sprague Mitchell and John Dewey, and the institution's comprehensive approach to child-centered, experiential learning. The conversation sheds light on Bank Street's transformative role in the world of early childhood education and its innovative contributions, including the development of the Bank Street Writer's Lab. 
**00:02:17 - The Evolution of Children"s Literature**  
Expanding on the history of children's literature, Dr. Weill discusses the pioneering work of Lucy Sprague Mitchell in promoting books that reflect the "here and now" of a child"s world. This segment offers listeners insight into how children's literature has evolved over the years, emphasizing Bank Street's historical impact on this transformation. 
**00:05:16 - Bank Street"s Best Book Lists and Awards**  
Dr. Weill delves into the criteria and process behind the Bank Street Children's Book Committee's selection of the best children's books, highlighting the importance of these resources for educators and families. She underscores the value of curated lists in guiding book selection, thereby enriching the educational experience for children. 
**00:06:43 - Advocacy and Diversity in Children"s Literature**  
The conversation turns to Dr. Weill's advocacy for quality children's literature, including efforts to curate a comprehensive list of exceptional Spanish-language and bilingual books. This segment emphasizes the need for diversity and representation in children"s books and Bank Street"s role in promoting these values within the publishing industry. 
**00:07:55 - Using Bank Street Resources**  
Adina asks for advice on leveraging Bank Street's assets to discover quality children"s books. Dr. Weill introduces the newly created database, highlighting its utility in helping families and educators find books on specific topics, illustrating how Bank Street's resources can simplify the search for impactful children's literature. 
**00:10:29 - Importance of Advocacy in Children's Publishing**  
Dr. Weill discusses the influence of Bank Street's advocacy on publishers' decisions to produce and recognize high-quality children"s literature. This part of the conversation provides an inside look at how recognition and awards can motivate publishers to prioritize significant works for children. 
**00:19:05 - Dr. Cynthia Weill's Personal Journey**  
Show Notes By Barevalue
 
Dr. Wilde shares her journey from a Spanish teacher to an artist collaborating with Oaxacan artisans to create bilingual children's books. This segment offers a unique perspective on integrating cultural art and educati

In this episode of the Helping Families Be Happy podcast, host Christopher Robbins, an author, husband, and father of nine, engages in a heartfelt conversation with Heather Hester, founder of Chrysalis Mama and advocate for LGBTQIA+ adolescents. They delve into the complexities and beauties of parenting LGBTQ+ teens, drawing from personal experiences and Heather's recent book, "Parenting with Pride." This discussion offers valuable insights into embracing and supporting LGBTQIA+ children with understanding, love, and empowerment. 
Episode Highlights:
- **00:00:09**: Christopher Robbins introduces the podcast and its mission to explore family, love, and relationships. He shares his background as a co-founder of Famis Publishing and a father of nine, emphasizing the podcast's commitment to providing real-life insights into nurturing family dynamics and supportive environments for all family members, including LGBTQIA+ teens. 
- **00:01:17**: Heather Hester is introduced as today’s guest. She talks about her role as the founder of Chrysalis Mama and her efforts to support parents and allies of LGBTQIA+ adolescents through education and empowerment. Heather shares her anticipation for the release of her first book, "Parenting with Pride," which aims to guide parents in embracing, empowering, and loving their LGBTQ+ teens. 
- **00:02:23**: Heather expresses her gratitude for being a part of the podcast and delves into the origins of her podcast, "Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen." She discusses the importance of sharing personal experiences and hosting guests with diverse expertise to support and educate parents navigating their journey with LGBTQ+ adolescents. 
- **00:04:29**: The conversation shifts to the core message of Heather's book. They discuss the challenges parents might face when their child comes out as LGBTQ+ and the significance of approaching these challenges with love, understanding, and a willingness to learn and unlearn biases. 
- **00:05:20**: Heather emphasizes simplicity in dealing with complex emotions and scenarios that arise when a child comes out. She encourages parents to see their child for who they are, reassure them of their unconditional love, and engage in self-reflection and learning to support their child effectively. 
- **00:06:16**: The discussion underlines the universal needs of children to be seen, heard, and loved. Christopher and Heather talk about the power of genuine curiosity and open communication in strengthening the parent-child relationship, especially when navigating the child's journey of self-discovery and expression. 
- **00:08:04**: Love as a verb is highlighted, with a focus on demonstrating love through actions and behaviors. This part of the discussion serves as a reminder that showing love and support plays a crucial role in modeling healthy relationships and emotional well-being for children. 
- **00:09:03**: Heather and Christopher explore the positive impacts of embracing and supporting LGBTQ+ children on family dynamics. They share personal stories that illustrate the strength and closeness that can result from navigating these experiences with compassion and understanding. 
- **00:09:55**: Educational resources and strategies for unlearning bias are discussed. Heather provides recommendations for organizations and resources that offer valuable information and support for families and communities striving to better understand and embrace LGBTQIA+ individuals. 
- **00:12:29**: Heather shares her hopes for readers of her book. She wishes for them to recognize the inherent capability within themselves to love their children unconditionally, become strong allies, and find freedom from fear through education and open-heartedness. 
- **00:14:14**: Closing thoughts emphasize the enduring and evolving journey of acceptance and love within families. 
Show Notes By Barevalue
Heather shares updates on her family and the positive outcomes of embracing the

On today's episode of the "Helping Families Be Happy" podcast, host Christopher Robbins, co-founder of Familius Publishing, husband, father of nine, author, fisherman, backpacker, and aspirational musician based in the Central Valley of California, talks to author and illustrator Liz Swenson. Liz has written two survival guides for parents: "You Got This, Mama: From boobs to Blowouts, a Survival Guide for New Mothers" and "Raising Tiny Humans: From Potty Training to Prejudice, The Survival Guide for the Wild Toddler Years." The discussion focuses on raising toddlers and includes valuable insights into teaching children about dehumanizing language, separating behavior from the person, and fostering executive function skills.
 
Episode Highlights:
01:30: Christopher extends Valentine's Day wishes and delves into the evolution of Liz's books, "You Got This, Mama" and "Raising Tiny Humans," laying the foundation for the discussion.
03:04: The focus shifts to a critical aspect of parenting toddlers: teaching them about dehumanizing language and its subtle yet impactful nuances.
05:07: Liz emphasizes the significance of distinguishing between a child's behavior and their core identity, encouraging a healthy understanding of hurtful actions.
06:29: Exploring the concept of "hurt people hurting people," Liz sheds light on how understanding this dynamic can help address negative behaviors in toddlers.
08:00: The conversation turns to the development of executive function skills in toddlers, with Liz underlining the importance of explicit teaching in this area.
09:49: Liz discusses the necessity for parents to undergo mental shifts, specifically reframing tantrums as expressions of significant emotions rather than mere misbehavior.
11:42: The podcast delves into the crucial topic of prioritizing parental well-being and self-care, acknowledging the challenges of navigating parenthood.
13:50: Liz shares valuable insights gained from her journey of writing books and raising toddlers, offering a glimpse into the lessons learned along the way.
16:51: Liz share practical tips for "levelling up" parenting emerge, emphasizing the importance of taking intentional breaks and being mindful of language choices.
 
Key Points:
The conversation highlights the importance of nurturing executive function skills in toddlers through explicit teaching, breaking down tasks, and promoting resilience, contributing to overall cognitive and emotional development.
Recognizing the challenges of parenting, the discussion underscores the significance of parents prioritizing their well-being, taking intentional breaks, and practicing patience to create a supportive environment for both them and their toddlers.
By reframing tantrums as expressions of significant emotions rather than mere misbehavior, parents can navigate challenges with patience and empathy.
 
Tweetable Quotes:
"Teaching toddlers isn't just about ABCs; it's about nurturing their executive function skills, breaking tasks into steps, and fostering resilience." - Liz Swenson
"Parenting is a journey of self-discovery. Prioritize your well-being, take breaks, and grow alongside your child for a more fulfilling experience." - Christopher Robbins
"Words matter. Reframing language to separate behavior from identity helps create a positive environment where toddlers learn empathy and understanding." - Liz Swenson
 
Resources Mentioned
Helping Families Be Happy Podcast Apple
https://lizswenson.org/
Podcast Editing