The Art of Raising Humans

Parenting Legacy
  • 4.9 (82)
  • Parenting
  • Weekly

Kyle and Sara Wester are Licensed Professional Counselors and parents of three who have spent more than two decades helping children, teens, and families build stronger relationships. Through the Art of Raising Humans podcast, they share practical, brain-based guidance to help parents lead with confidence, strengthen connection, and navigate hard moments with more calm. Their hope is to equip parents with the tools and encouragement to raise healthy, resilient humans while building relationships that last a lifetime.

  1. 3d ago ·  Video

    How to Raise Body-Confident Kids with Dr. Whitney Casares (Episode 336)

    You want your child to feel good in their body. But what if you’re still struggling with how you feel about yours?   The way we talk about food, movement, and our own appearance can shape how our children see themselves. That can feel like a lot of pressure—but you don’t have to feel perfectly confident in your body to help your child.   In this episode of The Art of Raising Humans, we talk with pediatrician and mom of two Dr. Whitney Casares, author of Raising Body-Confident Kids, about supporting positive body image in children and teens. We explore food, movement, social media, and the messages kids hear at home. We also share our own experiences, including Kyle’s memories of being teased about his weight and Sara’s conversations with her daughter about body image.   Together, we explore: How to guide food choices without labeling foods “good” or “bad.”What kids hear when we criticize our own bodies.How to make movement about enjoyment and connection.Ways to navigate social media and appearance pressures as kids grow.How to compliment your child while helping them recognize their worth beyond their looks.  If you’re raising children or teens and wondering how to approach these conversations, this episode offers practical ideas and room to be a parent who’s still learning, too. Listen for small shifts you can begin making in your family’s everyday conversations.   Connect with Dr. Whitney Casares: Modern Mommy DocRaising Body-Confident Kids: Books and Resources  Books discussed: Raising Body-Confident Kids: A Balanced Approach to Breaking the Cycle of Body Shame and Diet CultureMy One-of-a-Kind Body: The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Me  View the full podcast transcript at:  https://www.artofraisinghumans.com/how-to-raise-body-confident-kids-with-dr-whitney-casares   Visit our website and social media channels for more valuable content for your parenting journey.   Resource Website:  https://www.artofraisinghumans.com Video Courses:  https://art-of-raising-humans.newzenler.com/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/artofraisinghumans Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/artofraisinghumans Podcast Website:  https://www.theartofraisinghumans.com Book List: https://www.artofraisinghumans.com/booklist   The Art of Raising Humans podcast should not be considered or used as counseling but for educational purposes only.

  2. Nov 2 ·  Video

    What Is Screen Time Teaching Your Child? With Daniel Tiger Creator Angela Santomero (Episode 235)

    You want to feel good about what your child watches. But with so many shows and videos available, how do you know which ones are worth their time?   In Episode 235, Kyle and Sara Wester welcome Emmy Award winner Angela Santomero, creator of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood and co-creator of Blue’s Clues, for a hopeful conversation about choosing screen time with intention. Angela shares how thoughtfully created shows can help children understand feelings, practice solving problems, and build empathy. Kyle and Sara also reflect on how watching alongside their children gave them new language and ideas for parenting.   In this episode, you’ll hear about: What to look for when choosing shows for preschoolers and elementary childrenHow stories and songs can help children navigate anger, disappointment, and separationWhy watching together and talking afterward can extend the learningWhat Daniel Tiger can teach parents about understanding a child’s perspectiveSimple ways to nurture imagination, creativity, and connection beyond the screen  Angela also shares the story of her friendship with Fred Rogers, discusses the return of Super Why through new comic book adventures, and introduces Princess Penelope’s Purse of Preposterous Things. Through her Princess Penelope show and children’s books, Angela invites children to practice kindness and creative problem solving through imaginative adventures.   If you’ve wondered whether your child’s screen time could offer something meaningful, this conversation gives you a thoughtful place to begin. A familiar character, a memorable song, or a shared story can become something you draw on together in everyday parenting moments.   About our guest Angela Santomero is an Emmy Award winner, author, and creator of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood and Super Why! She also co-created Blue’s Clues. Her work includes creating Dee & Friends in Oz and Charlie’s Colorforms City and co-creating Hello, Jack! The Kindness Show.   Her latest projects include Super Why’s Comic Book Adventures and Princess Penelope’s Purse of Preposterous Things, which includes a video series and children’s books published by Loyola Press. With a master’s degree in child developmental psychology, Angela creates stories that invite young children to think, participate, and learn through play.   Connect with Angela and explore her work Angela’s website: https://www.angelasclues.com/Angela on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelasclues/Explore the Princess Penelope books and show: https://princesspenelope.com/   Angela’s newest children’s books Bunny Lala’s Big Song: https://www.amazon.com/dp/082946056XPirate Argh’s Treasure Hunt https://www.amazon.com/dp/0829460586  View the full podcast transcript at:  https://www.artofraisinghumans.com/what-is-screen-time-teaching-your-child-with-daniel-tiger-creator-angela-santomero   Visit our website and social media channels for more valuable content for your parenting journey.   Resource Website:  https://www.artofraisinghumans.com Video Courses:  https://art-of-raising-humans.newzenler.com/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/artofraisinghumans Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/artofraisinghumans Podcast Website:  https://www.theartofraisinghumans.com Book List: https://www.artofraisinghumans.com/booklist   The Art of Raising Humans podcast should not be considered or used as counseling but for educational purposes only.

  3. Oct 26 ·  Video

    How to Handle Disrespect Without Losing Your Cool (Episode 234)

    Your child rolls their eyes, snaps “Whatever,” or says, “You’re so annoying.” You feel yourself getting angry. You want to address it, but how do you respond without yelling, arguing, or letting hurtful behavior slide?   In this episode of Art of Raising Humans, Kyle and Sara Wester share practical ways to handle disrespect, hold clear limits, and help children and teens express frustration without attacking others.   We explore why these moments trigger parents so deeply, how to distinguish disagreement from hurtful behavior, and what children need to learn beyond “Don’t talk to me that way.” You’ll hear a familiar conflict over putting away a phone and examples of what to say during the moment and afterward.   You’ll learn: How to respond to eye rolls, backtalk, and insults with clear expectations.How to acknowledge your child’s feelings while keeping the limit.What your own response teaches your child about respect.How to practice better communication and meaningful repair outside the conflict.One shift to try: When you think, “My child is being disrespectful,” ask, “What did they do, and what do I want to help them practice instead?”   We can take their feelings seriously and take their behavior seriously. These moments give us opportunities to teach children how to disagree, handle disappointment, and take responsibility for their impact.   Want support putting this into practice in your family? Learn more about Parent Coaching with Art of Raising Humans.   Know a parent who would find this conversation helpful? Share this episode with them.   View the full podcast transcript at:  https://www.artofraisinghumans.com/how-to-handle-disrespect-without-losing-your-cool   Visit our website and social media channels for more valuable content for your parenting journey.   Resource Website:  https://www.artofraisinghumans.com Video Courses:  https://art-of-raising-humans.newzenler.com/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/artofraisinghumans Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/artofraisinghumans Podcast Website:  https://www.theartofraisinghumans.com Book List: https://www.artofraisinghumans.com/booklist   The Art of Raising Humans podcast should not be considered or used as counseling but for educational purposes only.

  4. Oct 19 ·  Video

    Understanding Anger: How It Can Help Your Family Connect (Episode 233)

    When someone in your family gets angry, does it feel normal, uncomfortable, or like something you need to fix?   What if understanding that anger could help you feel closer?   Kyle and Sara Wester grew up with very different messages about anger. For Kyle, it was an everyday expression. For Sara, it was something to put away quickly. In this honest, sometimes funny conversation, they share how they’ve learned to understand each other and make room for anger without letting it run their family.   Together, they explore: Why you and your partner may see anger so differentlyWhen anger points to hurt or fear, and when it helps us recognize something that needs to changeHow to talk about anger with curiosity and take responsibility for how you express itWhat we want children to learn about feeling angry and speaking up without hurting others  Feeling angry doesn’t mean something is wrong with you or your child. Getting curious about that feeling can lead to conversations your family needs.   Start a conversation of your own: Find our free Parenting Together worksheet in the Resources section at artofraisinghumans.com.   View the full podcast transcript at:  https://www.artofraisinghumans.com/understanding-anger-how-it-can-help-your-family-connect   Visit our website and social media channels for more valuable content for your parenting journey.   Resource Website:  https://www.artofraisinghumans.com Video Courses:  https://art-of-raising-humans.newzenler.com/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/artofraisinghumans Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/artofraisinghumans Podcast Website:  https://www.theartofraisinghumans.com Book List: https://www.artofraisinghumans.com/booklist   The Art of Raising Humans podcast should not be considered or used as counseling but for educational purposes only.

  5. Oct 12 ·  Video

    Free Range Parenting: What It Gets Right, What It Misses, and What Kids Actually Need (Episode 232)

    Are kids being overprotected, or are some being given more freedom than they’re ready to handle? You want your child to become confident and capable, but knowing when to step back and when to stay close isn’t always simple.   In Episode 232 of Art of Raising Humans, parent coaches and licensed professional counselors Kyle and Sara Wester explore free range parenting, a topic drawing attention in the news. They discuss what it gets right about independence, play, and responsibility, where it raises concerns, and what parents can learn from the conversation.   Through honest stories from their own parenting, Kyle and Sara consider how to give children meaningful opportunities to grow while staying involved and connected. They also examine how fear, exhaustion, and avoiding another argument can influence when we say yes or no.   In this episode, you’ll learn: What free range parenting means and why parents interpret it differentlyHow manageable challenges help kids build confidence and practice problem solving, judgment, and responsibilityWhy readiness for independence involves more than age or doing something successfully onceHow to tell when a child needs more preparation, supervision, or support before taking the next stepHow to recognize when anxiety, exhaustion, or avoiding conflict is influencing your decisionsFour practical steps for considering your child’s next opportunity for independenceWays to offer children and teens more freedom while maintaining clear limits and connection  Free range parenting raises worthwhile questions about what children need to grow. This conversation explores both its strengths and its limitations, helping you consider the freedom, support, and protection your child needs without asking you to adopt a parenting label.   A question to take with you: What is the next responsible freedom my child is ready to practice, and what support would help it go well?   Have thoughts about free range parenting? We’d love to hear from you. Email Kyle at kyle@artofraisinghumans.com.   For free parenting resources and information about Parent Coaching, visit artofraisinghumans.com.   View the full podcast transcript at:  https://www.artofraisinghumans.com/free-range-parenting-what-it-gets-right-what-it-misses-and-what-kids-actually-need   Visit our website and social media channels for more valuable content for your parenting journey.   Resource Website:  https://www.artofraisinghumans.com Video Courses:  https://art-of-raising-humans.newzenler.com/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/artofraisinghumans Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/artofraisinghumans Podcast Website:  https://www.theartofraisinghumans.com Book List: https://www.artofraisinghumans.com/booklist   The Art of Raising Humans podcast should not be considered or used as counseling but for educational purposes only.

  6. Oct 5 ·  Video

    How to Say No Without a Power Struggle: The “Yes, And” Approach (Episode 231)

    Most parents know the question is coming: “Can I go to my friend’s house?” “Can I stay out later?” “Can I get a phone?” And sometimes, before we have even thought it through, the answer comes out: no.   Of course, kids need parents who protect them, guide them, and hold healthy boundaries. But saying no does not have to mean shutting every door. In this episode, Kyle and Sara introduce a simple shift: looking for a real “yes, and…”   “Yes, you can, and here is what needs to be true for that to work.”   This is not about giving in, saying yes to everything, or turning every request into a negotiation. It is about helping your child grow in freedom, responsibility, and good decision-making while you remain a calm, confident leader.   In this episode, you’ll learn: Why an automatic “no” can create more power struggles and distanceHow to help kids feel heard without becoming permissiveWhat a real “yes, and” can sound like with phones, friends, activities, money, and independenceHow to know when the answer should be “not yet” or a clear noCommon mistakes that make boundaries feel confusing or unfair  Your child does not need unlimited freedom. They need a parent who can help them grow into it, one wise decision at a time.   If you and your partner often land on opposite sides of these decisions, download our free Parenting Together Workbook to help you get on the same page: https://www.artofraisinghumans.com/together.   View the full podcast transcript at:  https://www.artofraisinghumans.com/how-to-say-no-without-a-power-struggle-the-yes-and-approach   Visit our website and social media channels for more valuable content for your parenting journey.   Resource Website:  https://www.artofraisinghumans.com Video Courses:  https://art-of-raising-humans.newzenler.com/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/artofraisinghumans Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/artofraisinghumans Podcast Website:  https://www.theartofraisinghumans.com Book List: https://www.artofraisinghumans.com/booklist   The Art of Raising Humans podcast should not be considered or used as counseling but for educational purposes only.

  7. Sep 28 ·  Video

    Your Child Isn’t Finished Yet: Why “Knowing Better” Isn’t Enough (Episode 230)

    Your child can know what to do—and still be unable to do it in a hard moment. When they struggle with something they managed yesterday, it is easy to assume they are being lazy, disrespectful, or simply choosing not to try. But what if there is more going on underneath the behavior?   In this episode, Kyle and Sara explore why a child who seemed capable yesterday may struggle today—and how parents can respond with curiosity, calm limits, and support instead of labels and shame.   This does not mean lowering expectations or letting behavior slide. Understanding what is underneath behavior helps us hold limits with more calm, stay curious instead of judgmental, and help our kids build the skills they still need.   In this episode, we discuss: Why “lazy,” “defiant,” and “disrespectful” labels miss the full storyWhy stress, hunger, exhaustion, and overwhelm can limit access to skillsHow to notice “can’t yet” beneath what looks like “won’t”How to hold limits without excusing behaviorHow to help your child grow instead of judging them against a finished brain  Follow Art of Raising Humans for practical, relationship-first parenting tools each week. For personal support, visit www.artofraisinghumans.com.   View the full podcast transcript at:  https://www.artofraisinghumans.com/your-child-isnt-finished-yet-why-knowing-better-isnt-enough   Visit our website and social media channels for more valuable content for your parenting journey.   Resource Website:  https://www.artofraisinghumans.com Video Courses:  https://art-of-raising-humans.newzenler.com/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/artofraisinghumans Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/artofraisinghumans Podcast Website:  https://www.theartofraisinghumans.com Book List: https://www.artofraisinghumans.com/booklist   The Art of Raising Humans podcast should not be considered or used as counseling but for educational purposes only.

  8. Sep 21 ·  Video

    When You and Your Spouse Parent Differently: How to Get on the Same Team (Episode 229)

    You love the same kids. You probably even want many of the same things for them. So why can you and your spouse look at the exact same parenting moment and see it completely differently?   In this episode of The Art of Raising Humans, Kyle and Sara share more of their own parenting story—including the beliefs they brought into parenting, the conflicts they didn’t expect, and the very different approaches they initially had to sleep, big emotions, discipline, connection, and their roles as parents.   They talk openly about how childhood experiences, personality, fear, expectations, and even professional training can shape the way we respond to our kids—and why getting on the same page doesn’t mean becoming the same parent.   You’ll hear how they moved from judging each other’s approach to building a shared vision for their family, while still making room for their individual strengths.   In this episode, you’ll learn: Why different parenting styles can create so much tension between couplesHow your own childhood can quietly influence the way you parentWhy shared long-term goals matter more than handling every situation identicallyHow to start moving toward a more connected, collaborative approach to parenting together  If parenting disagreements are creating tension in your marriage or leaving you wondering how you’ll ever get on the same page, this conversation will give you hope—and a different way to think about becoming a team.   Want help putting this into practice?   Download our free Parenting Together Workbook, created to help you and your spouse or co-parent talk through your different perspectives, uncover what’s shaping the way each of you parents, and begin building a more intentional, shared approach to raising your kids.   👉 Download the Parenting Together Workbook here: www.artofraisinghumans.com/parent-together-workbook   View the full podcast transcript at:  https://www.artofraisinghumans.com/when-you-and-your-spouse-parent-differently-how-to-get-on-the-same-team   Visit our website and social media channels for more valuable content for your parenting journey.   Resource Website:  https://www.artofraisinghumans.com Video Courses:  https://art-of-raising-humans.newzenler.com/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/artofraisinghumans Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/artofraisinghumans Podcast Website:  https://www.theartofraisinghumans.com Book List: https://www.artofraisinghumans.com/booklist   The Art of Raising Humans podcast should not be considered or used as counseling but for educational purposes only.

See All (236)

4.9
out of 5
82 Ratings

About

Kyle and Sara Wester are Licensed Professional Counselors and parents of three who have spent more than two decades helping children, teens, and families build stronger relationships. Through the Art of Raising Humans podcast, they share practical, brain-based guidance to help parents lead with confidence, strengthen connection, and navigate hard moments with more calm. Their hope is to equip parents with the tools and encouragement to raise healthy, resilient humans while building relationships that last a lifetime.

Information

  • Creator
    Parenting Legacy
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    236
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Art of Raising Humans
  • Show Website
    The Art of Raising Humans

You Might Also Like