The Play Base

Frances Fishman

Welcome to The Play Date - a podcast where heart meets science, play meets purpose, and conversations build connection. I’m your host, Frances Fishman, Board Certified Behavior Analyst, educator, mom of three, and founder of The Play Base. Each week, we invite you to pull up a chair and join us for real conversations with experts, parents, therapists, and educators who are passionate about helping children thrive. From mental health to ABA, from the classroom to the therapy room—we’re here to learn, laugh, and grow together. Whether you're a parent, professional, or just someone who cares deeply about kids, this podcast is your invitation to explore, understand, and support the beautiful complexity of childhood. So grab your coffee... and let’s have a play date.

  1. 4d ago

    Ep. 43 - It Takes a Village: Motherhood, Mental Health & the Power of Connection with Nicole Kaplan

    What happens when we spend so much time caring for everyone else that we forget to care for ourselves? In this deeply personal and inspiring episode of The Play Base Podcast, Frances sits down with Nicole Kaplan, founder of Mom Dates Collective and host of the Life's a Mom Podcast, for an honest conversation about motherhood, postpartum mental health, identity, friendship, and the extraordinary power of community. Nicole shares the story behind Mom Dates Collective, a South Florida community that has brought together approximately 10,000 mothers through meaningful experiences, friendships, and opportunities to reconnect with themselves beyond their roles as caregivers. But behind this incredible community is a deeply personal story. Nicole vulnerably opens up about her experiences with postpartum depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and the overwhelming isolation she felt after becoming a mother. She shares how the unwavering support of her sister-in-law helped her recognize that she was struggling, seek professional help, and begin healing. That experience became the foundation for something much bigger: creating the village she wished she had when she needed it most. Frances and Nicole explore how motherhood transforms our identities, challenges our relationships, and often brings unresolved experiences from our own childhoods to the surface. They discuss the pressure mothers place on themselves to do everything, the shame that can come with asking for help, and why supporting a mother is one of the most meaningful ways we can support an entire family. Nicole also opens up about her experiences with borderline personality disorder, OCD, and ADHD, and how therapy, self-awareness, and personal growth have helped her better understand herself and her relationships. Together, Frances and Nicole reflect on the importance of breaking generational patterns, recognizing our own emotional triggers, and creating environments where women feel safe enough to be vulnerable, imperfect, and authentically themselves. Frances shares her own experiences navigating motherhood, entrepreneurship, perfectionism, and the belief that she should be able to do everything on her own. Their conversation is a beautiful reminder that asking for help is not a weakness, motherhood was never meant to be experienced alone, and caring for ourselves is an essential part of caring for our children. At the heart of this episode is a message that extends far beyond motherhood: When we feel seen, supported, and connected, we create the conditions for ourselves and the people we love to thrive. In this episode: Nicole's journey through postpartum depression, anxiety, and intrusive thoughtsHow one person's compassion and persistence can change a lifeThe creation of Mom Dates Collective and the importance of building a villageWhy motherhood can feel isolating, even in a connected worldMom guilt, identity, and rediscovering ourselves beyond motherhoodThe connection between caregiver well-being, attachment, and children's developmentBreaking generational patterns and recognizing our own emotional triggersNicole's experiences with BPD, OCD, ADHD, and the importance of therapyPerfectionism, self-judgment, and learning to ask for helpTurning personal pain into purpose and creating meaningful change for othersLearn More About Nicole Kaplan Nicole Kaplan is the founder of Mom Dates Collective, a growing community connecting mothers throughout South Florida through events, experiences, friendships, and shared support. She is also the host of the Life's a Mom Podcast, where she continues conversations about the realities of motherhood. Through her work and willingness to share her own experiences, Nicole is helping mothers feel less alone and reminding women that their needs, identities, and well-being matter. Connect with Nicole: Instagram: @momdates_collective Podcast: @lifes_a_mom Connect with The Play Base 🌐 Website: www.us.theplaybase.com 📸 Instagram: @theplaybase 🎥 YouTube: @theplaybase Subscribe to The Play Base Podcast for meaningful conversations about child development, parenting, relationships, nervous system regulation, mental health, and the power of human connection. Listener note: This episode includes discussions of postpartum depression, suicidal thoughts, and intrusive thoughts involving harm to children. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, professional support is available. In the U.S., call or text 988 for immediate crisis support. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  2. Oct 27

    Ep. 42 - Beyond the Symptoms: Homeopathy, Whole-Person Healing & the Power of Listening to Your Body with Wally

    What if we stopped looking at symptoms in isolation and started asking what the whole person might be experiencing? In this episode of The Play Base Podcast, Frances sits down with Wally, a board-certified homeopath, for a thought-provoking and deeply personal conversation about homeopathy, holistic health, the mind-body connection, and the importance of looking beyond what we see on the surface. Frances has always believed that behavior is complex. Our physical health, nervous systems, emotional experiences, environments, relationships, and personal histories all contribute to how we experience and respond to the world. That same curiosity led her to explore a different perspective on health and healing. Wally introduces listeners to the philosophy of classical homeopathy, explaining its history, foundational principles, and individualized approach to understanding symptoms. She shares why homeopathic practitioners seek to understand the whole person rather than focusing exclusively on a diagnosis. Together, Frances and Wally explore the relationship between physical discomfort and behavior, particularly in children who may struggle to recognize or communicate when something doesn't feel right. Frances reflects on her experiences navigating her own children's allergies, eczema, asthma, and recurring health concerns, and the challenges of advocating for answers when something feels unresolved. The conversation also becomes deeply personal as Wally shares the experiences that shaped her journey into homeopathy, including the loss of her brother to suicide, frightening health experiences with her newborn, multiple miscarriages, and the emotional challenges of motherhood. Through these experiences, Wally discovered a passion for listening deeply, observing without judgment, and approaching each person's story with compassion. Frances connects these ideas to The Play Base Method, where supporting a child begins with understanding who they are, what they have experienced, and what they may be communicating through their behavior. They also explore the importance of remaining curious while questioning what we think we know, recognizing that being open to different perspectives does not mean abandoning scientific evidence or necessary medical care. At the heart of this conversation is a powerful reminder: When we approach ourselves and others with curiosity instead of judgment, we create space for deeper understanding, connection, and growth. In this episode: What homeopathy is and how it differs from other complementary health approachesThe philosophy of looking beyond symptoms to understand the whole personThe connection between physical discomfort, emotional regulation, and behaviorWhy changes in a child's behavior may signal an underlying health concernNavigating childhood allergies, eczema, asthma, and chronic symptomsAdvocating for our children's health while making informed medical decisionsWally's personal journey through grief, motherhood, and pregnancy lossHow difficult life experiences can shape our purpose and compassionThe importance of listening without judgmentRemaining open-minded while respecting science and evidence-based careLearn More About Wally Wally is a board-certified homeopath who studied at the Academy of Homeopathy Education. Her personal experiences with family health challenges, grief, and motherhood inspired her to pursue classical homeopathy and support others through an individualized, whole-person approach. 🌐 Website: https://www.liveeasyhomeopathy.com/ 📸 Instagram: @wally.liveeasyhomeopathy Connect with The Play Base 🌐 Website: www.us.theplaybase.com 📸 Instagram: @theplaybase 🎥 YouTube: @theplaybase 🎙️ Subscribe to The Play Base Podcast for conversations that challenge traditional thinking about behavior, child development, relationships, neuroscience, nervous system regulation, parenting, and what it truly means to help people thrive. Because every child—and every person—deserves to be understood before they're expected to change. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  3. Oct 20

    Ep. 41 - You Don't Need Fixing: Finding Strength Through Self-Acceptance

    What if movement isn't about changing your body—but about coming home to yourself? In this deeply moving episode of The Play Base Podcast, Frances sits down with Brooke Bayliss, yoga and fitness instructor at Yoga Joint, for a conversation that goes far beyond exercise. What began as Frances sharing how Brooke's classes transformed her own life quickly unfolds into a powerful discussion about healing, body image, eating disorders, nervous system regulation, self-talk, resilience, motherhood, and the incredible connection between movement, mindset, and the human spirit. Brooke vulnerably shares her personal journey through body dysmorphia and an eating disorder, and how movement became not a way to punish her body—but a way to reconnect with it. Together, Frances and Brooke explore how the words we speak to ourselves shape our lives, why fitness can become a pathway back to self-trust, and how true strength is built from compassion rather than criticism. Throughout the episode, Frances reflects on the many parallels between Brooke's coaching style and The Play Base Method™—where growth isn't about fixing people, but helping them reconnect with who they already are. Whether you're a parent, educator, therapist, coach, or simply someone navigating your own relationship with your body and mind, this conversation is a reminder that healing often begins by learning to listen to yourself with kindness. In this episode, you'll learn about: Brooke's journey through body dysmorphia and eating disordersHow movement became a path toward healing rather than punishmentThe connection between physical movement, the nervous system, and emotional regulationWhy our inner dialogue often determines what we're capable ofThe power of coaching language and how words change performanceHow group energy influences motivation and resilienceMotherhood, body image, and learning to appreciate your body through every seasonWhy exercise should build strength—not self-criticismThe surprising parallels between fitness coaching and supporting children's developmentWhat it truly means to "come home to yourself"Memorable Quote "Nobody needs fixing. We all deserve the opportunity to become more of who we already are." About Brooke Bayliss Brooke Bayliss is a yoga and fitness instructor with Yoga Joint, where she teaches Hot Yoga and FIT classes centered on movement, mindfulness, and personal growth. With a background in Exercise Science and years of experience coaching individuals through movement, Brooke blends science, intuition, and authentic connection to create classes that challenge both the body and the mind. Having personally navigated body dysmorphia and an eating disorder, Brooke now teaches from a place of compassion, helping others reconnect with themselves through strength, breath, and self-awareness. Her coaching reminds students that movement is not about becoming someone different—it's about returning to who you've always been. Connect with Brooke: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brookebaylissYoga Joint: https://yogajoint.comConnect with The Play Base 🌐 Website: https://www.theplaybase.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theplaybase 🎙️ Subscribe to The Play Base Podcast for conversations that challenge traditional thinking about behavior, child development, relationships, neuroscience, nervous system regulation, parenting, and what it truly means to help people thrive. Because every child—and every person—deserves to be understood before they're expected to change. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  4. Sep 1

    Ep. 40 - Creativity, Possibility & Bringing a Child’s Imagination to Life with Scott of Budsies

    What happens when a child's imagination becomes something they can actually hold in their hands? In this episode of The Play Base Podcast, Frances sits down with Scott from Budsies, a company that turns children's original artwork into one-of-a-kind stuffed animals. Frances first discovered Budsies at a special needs program at the YMCA in Boca Raton, watching kids light up when they realized: "I made that." That moment stayed with her. Scott shares how he acquired and grew Budsies, which now includes Selfies (dolls from photos), Petsies (custom pet plushies), and Stuffed Animal Pros (characters and mascots for authors and businesses). The conversation goes beyond stuffed animals. Frances and Scott explore what creativity gives children: permission to imagine, experiment, fail, bend the rules, and turn what's only in their mind into something real. They discuss why failure matters to learning, letting kids be bad at something before they're good at it, and how creativity builds confidence and independence. Scott shares his own unconventional path—from nearly quitting school in fourth grade, to living in Spain and making documentaries, to a serious illness that redirected his life toward entrepreneurship. They also cover how Budsies supports children beyond creativity: kids with medical differences can see themselves in a doll with a port or limb difference, and grieving families can hold something tangible tied to a lost loved one or pet. Scott also describes how schools use Budsies for literacy—kids write an original character's story, then receive a stuffed version of it, becoming authors themselves. Frances and Scott close by discussing AI and creativity. Scott's philosophy: not anti-AI, but pro-human—using tech to clear away mundane work so people have more room to think, create, and connect. The core idea: creativity shows children they don't need permission to imagine something new—and that what they imagine might actually be possible. In this episode: Creativity, confidence, and learning Embracing failure instead of fearing it Turning artwork into tangible creations Storytelling and literacy Emotional meaning in stuffed animals Representation for kids with medical differences Entrepreneurship through acquisition AI as a tool for becoming more human The Budsies Pals sponsorship program Learn More: Budsies.com | education.budsies.com Budsies Pals lets you sponsor kids—including those served by hospitals and nonprofits—to experience this magic. Connect: www.us.theplaybase.com | IG/YouTube: @theplaybase See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Ep. 40 - Creativity, Possibility & Bringing a Child’s Imagination to Life with Scott of Budsies

  5. Aug 25

    Ep. 39 - The Healing Power of Play: Why Children Heal When They're Allowed to Simply Be with Dr. Edan Alcalay

    Play is often seen as just fun for kids—but what if it's actually one of the most powerful paths to healing? In this episode of The Play Base Podcast, host Frances Fishman talks with clinical psychologist and Certified Child-Centered Play Therapist Dr. Edan Alcalay about the science and heart behind play therapy. Drawing on over 20 years of clinical experience, Dr. Alcalay explains how child-centered play therapy strips away judgment and expectation, letting children's natural capacity to heal emerge on its own. Together, they explore why play is children's true language, how emotional safety underlies real growth, and why curiosity—not correction—is the key to understanding behavior. Frances also reflects on her background in ABA, comparing older compliance-focused methods to more compassionate, relationship-based approaches, and the two discuss what separates traditional play therapy from play-based ABA. Throughout, one idea stands out: kids can't truly heal while they're busy performing or masking to meet adult expectations. Healing starts when they feel safe enough to just be themselves. The episode ends with a simple challenge for every family: 8–10 minutes a day of uninterrupted, child-led play. No agenda, no teaching—just connection. A must-listen for parents, therapists, and educators alike. Connect with Dr. Edan Alcalay 🌐 www.bocaratonchild.com  Connect with The Play Base 🌐 Website: www.us.theplaybase.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theplaybase/ 🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theplaybase See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Ep. 39 - The Healing Power of Play: Why Children Heal When They're Allowed to Simply Be with Dr. Edan Alcalay

  6. Aug 18

    Ep. 38 - From Despair to Purpose: A Mother's Journey Through Autism, Hope & Healing with Jennifer Leonard

    IIn this deeply moving episode of The Play Base Podcast, Frances Fishman sits down with Behavioral Consultant Jennifer Leonard for one of the most personal conversations ever shared on the show. Jennifer's journey into Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) didn't begin in a classroom — it began as a mother searching for answers after her son was diagnosed with autism. Faced with uncertainty, cultural stigma, isolation, and a healthcare system that often left her feeling unheard, Jennifer navigated one of the darkest seasons of her life. What emerged from that pain was a calling: to become the advocate, educator, and source of hope she once desperately needed herself. Now a mother of five, a graduate student completing her master's degree, and a Behavioral Consultant supporting schools, teachers, families, and students, Jennifer shares how her lived experience shaped the compassionate professional she is today. Her story is one of resilience, healing, faith, and discovering purpose through life's greatest challenges. This episode explores: Jennifer's personal journey as a mother raising a child with autism The emotional impact of receiving an autism diagnosis without adequate support Cultural perspectives and stigma surrounding disability and neurodivergence Navigating grief, uncertainty, and learning to advocate for your child The transformative power of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) How lived experience creates extraordinary professionals Supporting families with compassion rather than judgment Jennifer's path from parent to Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) to Behavioral Consultant Creating meaningful change within schools and educational systems Building inclusive environments where every child can thrive Turning pain into purpose One of the most powerful moments comes as Jennifer vulnerably shares a season when she struggled to see a way forward, and the dream that changed everything — a vision of her son thriving as a teenager, reminding her that hope still existed. That moment became the catalyst for dedicating her life to ensuring other families never feel as alone as she once did. Frances reflects on how our deepest struggles often become the foundation for our greatest purpose, and the two discuss how meaningful change in education and healthcare begins not with more information, but with more humanity. They also explore why behavior is ultimately about understanding people rather than controlling them, and how compassion should stay at the center of every interaction. Jennifer leaves listeners with a simple, profound question: "How are you treating people?" Whether you're a parent, educator, therapist, healthcare professional, or someone navigating your own difficult season, this episode is a reminder that hope can emerge from heartbreak, and that our greatest purpose is often born from the moments we never thought we'd survive. Connect with The Play Base 🌐 Website: www.us.theplaybase.com 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/theplaybase 🎥 YouTube: youtube.com/@theplaybase See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Ep. 38 - From Despair to Purpose: A Mother's Journey Through Autism, Hope & Healing with Jennifer Leonard

  7. Jul 28

    Ep. 37 - Beyond Self-Defense: How Martial Arts Builds Confidence, Resilience & Character with Sensei Caio

    In this inspiring episode of The Play Base Podcast, Frances Fishman sits down with Sensei Caio—founder of True Kombat Training—to explore how martial arts can transform far more than physical ability. Together, they discuss the profound impact martial arts has on confidence, emotional regulation, resilience, discipline, and child development. Raised in a family of martial artists and a former professional MMA fighter, Sensei Caio shares his journey from training with his father at three years old to building a unique mobile martial arts program that brings individualized instruction directly into families’ homes, schools, and communities. Today, his team serves more than 150 children, including many autistic and neurodivergent learners, through an approach that combines movement, mentorship, play, and personal growth. Throughout the conversation, Frances and Sensei Caio dive into why martial arts is about much more than learning to fight. They discuss how children learn to navigate frustration, persevere through challenges, build emotional regulation, and develop lifelong confidence—skills that extend far beyond the mats. This episode explores: Why martial arts develops much more than self-defense The connection between movement, brain development, and emotional regulation Martial arts for autistic and neurodivergent children Building confidence through repetition, mastery, and perseverance Teaching children how to lose with resilience and grace The importance of discipline, respect, and healthy boundaries How martial arts strengthens focus, self-control, and executive functioning Creating individualized programs that meet children where they are Using play, imagination, and storytelling to teach complex skills The role of meditation and mindfulness in children’s development Why mentorship can change the trajectory of a child’s life Supporting parents while helping children build resilience at home Frances also shares how many of the strategies used in martial arts parallel principles from developmental psychology and behavior science—including priming, repetition, relationship-building, and learning through play. Together, they highlight how meaningful growth happens when children are given the opportunity to experience challenge in a supportive environment rather than being protected from it. Whether you’re a parent, educator, therapist, coach, or simply someone interested in helping children build confidence and resilience, this episode offers practical insights into how martial arts can become a powerful tool for lifelong development. One of the most memorable takeaways comes from Sensei Caio: “It is better to be a warrior in a garden than a gardener in a war.” A reminder that preparing children with confidence, discipline, compassion, and self-control is one of the greatest gifts we can give them. Connect with Sensei Caio & True Kombat Training 🥋 True Kombat Training 🌐 Website: https://truekombattraining.com 📱 Instagram: @truekombattraining or @urugaicaio Connect with The Play Base 🌐 Website: www.us.theplaybase.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theplaybase/ 🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theplaybase See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Ep. 37 - Beyond Self-Defense: How Martial Arts Builds Confidence, Resilience & Character with Sensei Caio

  8. Jul 21

    Ep. 36 - From Diagnosis to Empowerment: Finding Community, Purpose & Joy with Lauren Stewart

    In this heartfelt episode of The Play Base Podcast, Frances Fishman sits down with Lauren Stewart—founder of The Sweet Spectrum and Proud Autism Moms Club—to talk about parenting, neurodiversity, entrepreneurship, community, and the transformative power of understanding. Lauren shares her family's journey following her daughter's autism diagnosis, how it reshaped her perspective on motherhood, and how it ultimately inspired two purpose-driven businesses: one spreading joy through cookies and the other creating a supportive community for parents navigating similar experiences. Together, Frances and Lauren explore the emotional realities of receiving a diagnosis, why understanding a child's brain changes everything, and how support for parents is just as important as support for children. Lauren also opens up about her own late ADHD diagnosis, the relief that came with understanding herself, and how self-awareness transformed the way she parents, works, and lives. This episode explores: Lauren's journey as an autism mom and entrepreneur Why community is essential for parents raising neurodivergent children The inspiration behind The Sweet Spectrum and Proud Autism Moms Club What families experience after receiving an autism diagnosis Why a diagnosis doesn't change your child—it changes your understanding The importance of parent education and involvement in therapy Gestalt language processing and different forms of communication Late ADHD diagnosis in women and the power of self-understanding Emotional regulation, empathy, and nervous system support The realities of navigating therapy, insurance, and financial challenges Building inclusive communities where families feel seen, supported, and understood Finding beauty, joy, and connection in everyday moments Throughout the conversation, Frances and Lauren challenge common misconceptions about autism and ADHD, emphasizing that neurodiversity is not something to fear or "fix." Instead, they discuss how understanding differences creates opportunities for connection, self-acceptance, and meaningful support. Whether you're a parent, educator, therapist, clinician, or someone navigating your own neurodivergent journey, this episode is a reminder that you are not alone—and that compassion, curiosity, and community can change everything. Connect with Lauren Stewart 🍪 The Sweet Spectrum📱 Instagram: @thesweetspectrum 💙 Proud Autism Moms Club📱 Instagram: @proudautismmomsclub Connect with The Play Base 🌐 Website: www.us.theplaybase.com📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theplaybase/🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theplaybase See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Ep. 36 - From Diagnosis to Empowerment: Finding Community, Purpose & Joy with Lauren Stewart
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About

Welcome to The Play Date - a podcast where heart meets science, play meets purpose, and conversations build connection. I’m your host, Frances Fishman, Board Certified Behavior Analyst, educator, mom of three, and founder of The Play Base. Each week, we invite you to pull up a chair and join us for real conversations with experts, parents, therapists, and educators who are passionate about helping children thrive. From mental health to ABA, from the classroom to the therapy room—we’re here to learn, laugh, and grow together. Whether you're a parent, professional, or just someone who cares deeply about kids, this podcast is your invitation to explore, understand, and support the beautiful complexity of childhood. So grab your coffee... and let’s have a play date.

Information

  • Creator
    Frances Fishman
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    42
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Show Website
    The Play Base