Globally Thriving Families

Clare O'Byrne

Globally Thriving Families offers practical support and thoughtful conversations for parents navigating international life.  Exploring child development and parenting through the unique lens of cross cultural living, and helping the whole family thrive wherever your adventures take you. 

  1. 12/07/2025

    Thriving Through the Festive Overwhelm

    Send us a text Managing Holiday Stress and Overstimulation for International Families In this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, host Clare O'Byrne, a parent coach and occupational therapist, discusses the mental load, pressure, and overstimulation that the holiday season can bring, especially for internationally parenting families. Clare offers insights on how to handle the chaos, prioritize self-care, and create low-pressure, memorable moments that foster connection and joy. She also introduces actionable micro habits to help families thrive during the holiday season. 00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families 01:00 Holiday Season Challenges for International Parents 02:06 Managing Mental Load and Social Expectations 03:45 Sensory Overstimulation and Pressure 06:50 Creating Core Memories and Micro Moments 08:50 Practical Tips for a Balanced Holiday Season 11:05 Final Thoughts and Encouragement 12:21 Connect and Learn More Resources mentioned in the episode:  Thriving Through the Winter Holidays and the Heavy Work Suggestions:  https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lDcIxpX-0ip7JAqkI8vMW_gygLvnpuGu/view?usp=sharing   Connect with Clare: clare@globallythriving.com Get the Free 5 Minute Parenting Reset for Busy Globally Mobile Families: Website: https://www.globallythriving.com Connect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thriving Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting

    13 min
  2. 11/18/2025

    Not Every Sibling Conflict Is an Emergency

    Send us a text Navigating sibling conflict: when doing less is more.  In this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, host Clare O'Byrne, addresses the common parenting challenge of sibling conflict. Clare provides insights into why sibling bickering is hard for parents to tolerate and how it impacts our emotional regulation. She offers practical strategies for managing sibling rivalry and conflict by distinguishing between different types of conflicts, emphasizing the importance of allowing children space to develop essential social skills. Clare also discusses how parents can stay calm and use grounding techniques to support their children's emotional development. The episode includes advice on how to co-regulate with children, the significance of post-conflict repair and reconnection, and offers resources for further support. 00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families Podcast 01:03 The Reality of Sibling Relationships 02:16 Understanding the Root Causes of Sibling Conflicts 04:21 Defining Sibling Rivalry and Conflict 06:10 The Importance of Conflict in Child Development 08:20 Parental Strategies for Managing Sibling Conflicts 12:28 Repairing and Reconnecting After Conflicts 15:33 Conclusion and Further Support Resources mentioned in the episode: Guide to Sibling Dynamics: Rivalry, Conflict, Aggression or Abuse.  https://www.unh.edu/saara/sites/default/files/media/2025-10/classification-of-sibling-dynamics-handout.pdf Connect with Clare: clare@globallythriving.com Get the Free 5 Minute Parenting Reset for Busy Globally Mobile Families: Website: https://www.globallythriving.com Connect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thriving Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting

    16 min
  3. 10/27/2025

    Why Is It So Hard To Keep Your Cool With Your Kids?

    Send us a text How your body, your past and your current reality collide in tough parenting moments. In this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, host Clare O'Byrne, a parent coach and occupational therapist, delves into the challenges of 'staying calm' as a parent, particularly in high-stress moments triggered by a child's big emotions. Clare explains the neurobiological factors at play, including the activation of the amygdala, stress hormones, and mirror neurons, which make staying calm difficult despite knowing effective strategies. She also explores how past childhood experiences and the unique stressors of parenting in an international context can affect emotional regulation. Clare emphasizes the importance of awareness, self-compassion, and co-regulation—being present and connected with your child, rather than solely focusing on staying calm—as crucial steps in managing these challenging situations. This episode offers valuable insights and practical advice for parents seeking to support their children's emotional well-being and navigate their own reactions. 00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families 01:02 Understanding Parental Stress and Child Emotions 02:54 The Neurobiology of Stress Responses 06:02 Impact of Past Experiences on Parenting 08:58 Challenges of International Parenting 15:21 The Importance of Co-Regulation 18:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Connect with Clare: clare@globallythriving.com Get the Free 5 Minute Parenting Reset for Busy Globally Mobile Families: Website: https://www.globallythriving.com Connect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thriving Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting

    19 min
  4. 10/13/2025

    When Things Calm Down...I'll Take Care of Myself

    Send us a text Thriving in Chaos: Micro Habits for Parents and Caregivers In this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, host Clare O'Byrne, a  parent coach and occupational therapist, explores the concept of thriving amidst the chaos of daily life, especially for parents and caregivers raising children internationally. She delves into the dynamic nature of thriving, emphasizing that it's not about perfection but about feeling alive and learning. Clare discusses the importance of understanding the brain-body connection, particularly through the lens of our eight senses, including proprioception, vestibular, and interoception. She offers practical micro habits to help individuals feel more grounded and connected, despite the hectic nature of life. This episode is a guide to building resilience and nurturing oneself through small, manageable actions. 00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families 01:02 The Myth of Perfect Timing for Thriving 02:14 Defining Thriving and Its Challenges 10:59 Understanding the Brain-Body Connection 18:15 Practical Tips for Sensory Regulation 24:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts References mentioned in the episode:  A Socially Embedded Model of Thriving at Work. Gretchen Spreitzer et al, Oct 2005, Organization Science, Vol 16.  Connect with Clare: clare@globallythriving.com Get the Free 5 Minute Parenting Reset for Busy Globally Mobile Families: Website: https://www.globallythriving.com Connect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thriving Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting

    26 min
  5. 09/29/2025

    Beyond Parenting Styles & What Really Shapes How We Raise Our Kids

    Send us a text A flexible lens for parents that considers the child, the caregiver, the context, and core values to guide your parenting.  In this episode of Globally Thriving Families, host Clare O'Byrne emphasizes the importance of moving beyond popular parenting styles by understanding the unique needs of each child, the parent's background, the context of upbringing, and core family values. She introduces a simplified framework using the Four Cs—Child, Caregiver, Context, and Core Values—to guide parents in their daily interactions. Clare also explores foundational studies on parenting approaches and how to navigate the nuances of raising children, particularly in globally mobile and neurodivergent families. 00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families 01:06 Podcast Schedule  01:46 Understanding Popular Parenting Styles 03:02 Beyond Parenting Styles: The Nuances 04:12 Historical Perspectives on Parenting Approaches 05:51 Modern Parenting Styles and Their Implications 08:06 The Need for Nuanced Parenting 14:41 The Four Cs: A New Parenting Framework 17:11 Implementing the Four Cs in Your Parenting 18:24 Conclusion and next steps Resources mentioned in this episode:  The Conscious Parent. Dr. Shefali Tsabary. The Gentle Parenting Book. Sarah Ockwell-Smith. Brain-Body Parenting. Dr. Mona Delahooke. Connect with Clare: clare@globallythriving.com Get the Free 5 Minute Parenting Reset for Busy Globally Mobile Families: Website: https://www.globallythriving.com Connect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thriving Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting

    19 min
  6. 09/15/2025

    New Country, New Life? The Emotional Impact of Big Transitions

    Send us a text How to support our kids (and ourselves) to navigate international moves with Mika Izekor. In this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, Clare talks with Mika Izekor, a cultural intelligence consultant and adult third culture kid. Clare and Mika dive deep into the emotional impacts of big transitions, strategies for fostering resilience, and the importance of maintaining connections to one's cultural roots. Mika shares her personal journey and professional insights, offering practical advice for parents to support their children through relocations. The discussion touches on the value of compassion, authenticity, and the power of shared experiences in helping kids adapt to new environments. 00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families Podcast 01:07 Meet Mika Izekor: Cultural Intelligence Consultant 02:25 Mika's Journey: From Makeup to Coaching 04:35 Understanding Cultural Intelligence 08:06 The Emotional Impact of Relocation on Families 12:56 Navigating Relocation: Practical and Emotional Challenges 21:07 The Role of Parents in Supporting Children Through Transitions 29:50 Parental Stress and Child's Reevaluation 30:16 Navigating New School and Cultural Differences 31:20 Overinflating Positives of Relocation 32:58 Addressing Children's Fears and Concerns 38:28 Balancing Parental Uncertainty and Support 42:00 Building Resilience in Children 45:46 Practical Strategies for Supporting Children 50:04 Understanding Cultural Impact on Parenting 56:08 Conclusion and Workshop Information Resources mentioned in this episode:  Third Culture Kids: The Experience of Growing Up Among Worlds. David C. Pollock & Ruth E. Van Reken. Connect with Mika: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mika-holborow  Website: www.inelementcoaching.com  Instagram: in.element.coaching  Connect with Clare: clare@globallythriving.com Get the Free 5 Minute Parenting Reset for Busy Globally Mobile Families: Website: https://www.globallythriving.com Connect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thriving Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting

    58 min
  7. 09/01/2025

    It's Time To Let Go of Parenting Perfection: Why Good Enough is What Kids Really Need

    Send us a text Letting Go of Perfection: Embracing Good Enough Parenting In this episode of the Globally Thriving Families Podcast, host Clare O'Byrne addresses the pressure parents, especially those raising children internationally, feel to create perfect experiences for their kids. She unpacks the sources of this pressure, including guilt, fear of missing out, and social media comparisons. Clare introduces the concept of 'good enough parenting,' backed by scientific research from experts like Dr. Dan Siegel and Dr. Tina Payne Bryson. She explains the four S's (safe, seen, soothed, secure) that children need to develop a secure attachment, emphasizing that perfection is not required. Clare encourages parents to reflect on their own experiences and to focus on showing up for their children in everyday moments. 00:00 Introduction to Globally Thriving Families 01:11 The Pressure of Perfect Parenting 03:48 Understanding the Source of Parenting Pressure 06:51 The Science of 'Good Enough' Parenting 11:50 Practical Tips for Showing Up 14:01 Reflecting on Your Parenting Journey 15:27 Conclusion and Next Steps Resources mentioned in this episode: The Power of Showing Up: how parental pressure shapes who our kids become and how their brains gets wired. Dr. Dan Siegel and Dr. Tina Payne Bryson Connect with Clare: clare@globallythriving.com Get the Free 5 Minute Parenting Reset for Busy Globally Mobile Families: Website: https://www.globallythriving.com Connect with Clare on Instagram: http://instagram.com/globally_thriving Book a free 20 minute call with Clare: https://tidycal.com/globallythriving/20-minute-meeting

    16 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Globally Thriving Families offers practical support and thoughtful conversations for parents navigating international life.  Exploring child development and parenting through the unique lens of cross cultural living, and helping the whole family thrive wherever your adventures take you.