Helping Families Be Happy Familius

In today's episode, host Adina Oberman welcomes Melissa Taylor, founder of Imagination Soup, former teacher, and a passionate advocate for reading among children. Together, they delve into strategies for encouraging young readers, especially those hesitant or reluctant to pick up a book. Their conversation also explores the role of technology in reading, summer reading tips, and how to make reading an enjoyable and integral part of family life. 
Episode Highlights: 
00:00:09: Adina Oberman introduces the podcast, its alignment with Fami's habits of "Read Together and Learn Together", and her guest Melissa Taylor. Adina's background as a mom, former teacher, and creator of Big Books for Little Hands sets the stage for a rich discussion on children's literature and engaging young readers. 
00:01:18: Melissa Taylor shares her journey from a preschool teacher to the founder of Imagination Soup, highlighting her passion for connecting parents, teachers, and children with enriching reading materials. This segment illuminates Melissa's extensive experience and dedication to inspiring a love of reading in children. 
00:02:55: The conversation pivots to strategies for encouraging reluctant readers, emphasizing the importance of linking reading material to children's interests, such as sports or other hobbies. Melissa underscores the value of patience, personalization, and persistence in fostering a child's love for reading. 
00:03:58: Melissa and Adina discuss the challenge of competing with screens for children's attention and the potential of diverse materials, including magazines and graphic novels, to engage young readers effectively. This part of the episode offers practical advice for expanding beyond traditional books to captivate young audiences. 
00:04:45: Tips for maintaining reading momentum during summer are shared, focusing on the significance of choice and ownership in what children read. Melissa suggests approaches like book picnics and pairing books with related activities to make summer reading more appealing. 
00:06:21: The conversation underscores the crucial role of setting up children for successful reading experiences through strategies like the five finger test and simplifying the book selection process. Melissa's insights demonstrate how proactive support can enrich children's reading journey. 
00:07:14: Melissa and Adina highlight the importance of incorporating reading into daily routines, suggesting innovative approaches such as reading during meals to create dedicated time for books amidst busy schedules. 
00:08:04: They explore the potential of nonfiction books to retain interest among children who may not be drawn to traditional narratives. This segment acknowledges the broad spectrum of reading materials that can captivate young minds. 
00:10:45: The role of technology in supporting reading is examined, with a focus on eBooks and audiobooks as valuable resources for interactive and engaging reading experiences. Melissa recommends leveraging digital tools to enhance accessibility and engagement in reading. 
00:13:18: Adina and Melissa discuss the educational power of audiobooks, highlighting their ability to build vocabulary, comprehension skills, and a love for storytelling through listening. 
00:15:09: The significance of perseverance in finding the right reading strategies and materials for each child is emphasized, with Melissa sharing her belief in the value of experimentation and flexibility in cultivating a reader's mindset. 
00:17:06: Melissa shares personal anecdotes to illustrate the enduring relevance of picture books and the joy of rediscovering them as children grow. This segment serves as a reminder of the timeless appeal and educational value of picture books in developing literacy. 
Show Notes By Barevalue
 
00:20:46: The episode concludes with Melissa providing her contact information and inviting listeners to explore more resources on Imagination Soup, encouraging contin

In this inspiring episode of the Helping Families Be Happy podcast, host Christopher Robbins sits down with Louise Webster, author and founder of BeyondtheSchoolRun.com, to explore revolutionary approaches for mothers to utilize their skills and talents while their children are at school. The conversation delves deep into the potential for parents to maintain their professional growth and personal fulfillment during the parenting years, highlighting the importance of flow, autonomy, and purpose in achieving a balanced life. 
Episode Highlights: 
00:00:10 - Christopher Robbins introduces the podcast's focus on family, love, relationships, and the day's guest, Louise Webster, discussing her mission with Beyondtheschoolrun.com and her book, "A New Way For Mothers." Robbins ties the discussion back to the Famis habits' theme of learning together, establishing the episode's purpose to explore how mothers can integrate their professional and personal growth during their children's school hours. 
00:01:23 - Louise Webster expresses gratitude for the platform to share her work and book, setting the stage for a comprehensive exploration of Beyond the School Run's goals, her inspiration for its creation, and the impact it aims to have on mothers looking for fulfillment beyond traditional parenting roles. 
00:01:43 - Webster details the inception of Beyond the School Run, its mission to empower mothers personally and professionally, and her motivation stemmed from personal experience and the observed need for a supportive community for mothers in transition periods. This initiates the discussion on the movement towards flexible, meaningful work aligned with parenting responsibilities. 
00:04:33 - The conversation shifts towards the evolving landscape of work opportunities for mothers and parents at home, highlighting the shift in corporate attitudes toward remote work and flexible schedules. Webster underscores the untapped value in the parent workforce, emphasizing efficiency, responsibility, and the unique perspectives parents bring to the professional world. 
00:07:48 - Christopher Robbins links the discussion to the broader theme of autonomy, mastery, and purpose in unlocking personal motivation, touching on societal shifts towards accommodating and valuing the parenting role alongside professional aspirations. 
00:08:43 - The focus turns to practical advice for parents looking to rediscover or redefine their professional interests and talents during the limited hours when their children are in school. Webster offers strategies for self-exploration, staying present, and testing new paths, illustrating the process of aligning personal growth with parenting. 
00:12:27 - Webster shares insights on the diverse skill sets and professions of individuals within the Beyond the School Run community, highlighting the emergence of new business models and career paths catalyzed by parenting experiences. This segment showcases real-world examples of mothers transitioning into fulfilling careers by harnessing their experiences and skills developed through parenting. 
00:16:48 - The concept of "the genius of the and" is introduced, celebrating the ability to fulfill parenting roles while pursuing personal dreams and professional goals. This key moment underscores the episode's message of empowering parents to embrace both family life and personal aspirations without compromise. 
00:18:22 - As the episode nears its conclusion, Webster encourages parents facing the transition of their children back to school to take proactive steps towards their own personal and professional development. She emphasizes the importance of vocalizing and acting on their desires as a pathway to fulfillment and empowerment. 
00:20:17 - Louise Webster shares where listeners can find more information about Beyond the School Run, including her book, "A New Way For Mothers," her platform's growing community, and the resources available to support parents in thei

In this engaging episode of Helping Families Be Happy, host Adina Oberman taps into the wisdom of writer and memoirist Pam Lobley to tackle the challenges of modern family schedules and the lost art of free play. Pam shares insights from her own experiences of letting her children enjoy a summer free of scheduled activities, diving into the benefits and hurdles of unstructured playtime. The episode serves as a reminder of the value of simplicity in our fast-paced world, emphasizing the importance of fostering creativity and imagination in children through the power of play.
Episode Highlights:
00:09: Adina Oberman warmly introduces the podcast, sharing her multifaceted role as a mom, former preschool teacher, and a member of the Famis marketing team, as well as her enthusiasm for children's literature through her project, big books for little hands. She welcomes Pam Lobley, a renowned writer recognized for her columns in major publications and her memoir focused on the joys of unstructured play for over-scheduled children.
01:40: Pam expresses her excitement about joining the podcast and delves into the backstory of her book "Why Can't We Just Play?" She illuminates the overwhelming nature of modern parenting, where the pressure to enroll children in numerous activities can overshadow the simple pleasures of childhood.
02:49: Through a heartfelt recount of a night that changed her perspective, Pam describes her realization that her children craved unstructured play. This epiphany led to a transformative summer where her family embraced the freedom of play without the confines of a packed schedule, exploring the resulting benefits and challenges.
04:11: The conversation shifts to the critical difference between structured and unstructured play, with Adina and Pam discussing the invaluable role of free time in fostering children's creativity, decision-making, and self-exploration, contrasting this with the often achievement-focused nature of scheduled activities.
05:34: Pam offers practical advice for parents struggling to incorporate free play into their daily routines. She emphasizes the importance of setting clear boundaries around screen time and creating opportunities for children to engage in self-directed play, advocating for parental involvement without directing the play itself.
07:32: Highlighting the educational aspect of play, Pam underscores how unstructured playtime can teach children crucial life skills such as empathy, self-awareness, and moral judgment through natural interactions rather than adult instruction.
09:36: Reflecting on the modern parenting dilemma of balancing technology use with active play, Adina discusses the common scenario of parents being physically present but mentally distracted by devices. Pam stresses the importance of being fully engaged and setting an example of prioritizing real-world interactions over screen time.
11:31: Pam shares strategies for managing screen time, including establishing specific rules around its use based on weather and time of day. She advocates for consistency in enforcing these rules and believes that, over time, children come to appreciate and prefer the freedom and joy that comes with less screen dependence.
14:13: Offering further advice, Pam highlights the importance of community and spousal support in facilitating unstructured play, suggesting that parents connect with like-minded families and work together with their partners to create a supportive environment for their children's free play.
19:28: As the episode concludes, Pam provides listeners with ways to connect with her online and reiterates the significant value of embracing the freedom of summer to foster happy, well-rounded children.
Key Takeaways:
- Structured activities, while beneficial, need to be balanced with ample time for unstructured play, which is critical for children's creativity, emotional growth, and physical well-being.
Show Notes By Barevalue
 
- Parents play a crucia

In this enlightening episode of the Helping Families Be Happy podcast, host Adina Oberman is joined by Emily Liebel, an enthusiastic advocate for combining children's literature with outdoor adventures to create enriching experiences for families. As they delve into the concept of micro-adventuring. They share practical tips on making outdoor activities both accessible and educational, leveraging local landscapes to spark creativity and learning. Their conversation underscores the importance of incorporating reading into family routines, especially in connection to exploring the natural world.
 Episode Highlights:
- **00:00:09** - Adina Oberman introduces the podcast, emphasizing its focus on family, love, relationships, and the unique blend of reading and outdoor activities to enrich family life. Adina highlights her background and passion for children's literature and introduces guest Emily Liebel, who shares her insights on using books to enhance outdoor adventures.
- **00:01:21** - Emily rejoins the podcast to delve deeper into the concept of micro adventuring, explaining its origins and how it can be tailored to fit any family's lifestyle. This part of the conversation offers families a new perspective on adventure, making it simple, accessible, and a source of joy and discovery close to home.
- **00:02:23** - The similarity between micro adventuring and the concept of "staycation" is discussed, reflecting on how the pandemic inspired families to find adventure close to home. Emily and Adina talk about the simplicity of micro adventures and how they can make everyday surroundings exciting and new for both adults and children.
- **00:03:20** - Emily shares her approach to inclusive planning for micro adventures, incorporating her children's interests to ensure every family member is engaged and involved. This segment stresses the importance of including children in the planning process, enhancing their investment in the activities and their outcomes.
- **00:04:27** - The conversation reveals how micro adventuring also serves as an educational tool, making each outing a hands-on learning experience through simple observations and explorations of local environments. Emily's practice of involving her children in planning helps tailor each adventure to their interests, fostering a deeper connection to the natural world.
- **00:05:49** - Emily recounts her family's experiences during the pandemic, utilizing nature preserves for micro adventuring as a means to engage her children with the environment in distinctive, educational ways, including observing wildlife and crafting homemade binoculars.
- **00:07:40** - Literacy and outdoor play are intertwined as Emily discusses using books like "Thankful Animals Thankful Me" and "A Tree for Me" from Famis to inspire and inform their outdoor adventures. This segment highlights how literature can deepen children's experiences and connections with nature through guided exploration and observation.
- **00:09:49** - Effective teaching methods that parallel outdoor micro adventuring experiences with classroom strategies are compared, celebrating the organic, powerful learning moments that arise when children engage deeply with both literature and nature.
- **00:10:56** - Emily offers practical advice and tips for families looking to embark on micro adventures, specifically during the summertime. She emphasizes the importance of simplicity, preparation, and making adventures accessible, regardless of a family's location or resources.
- **00:12:09** - Detailing a specific summer micro adventure, Emily describes how her family biked the Jordan River Trail, highlighting the value of exploring local areas and the joy found in simple, planned activities that focus on exploration and spending time together.
- **00:17:55** - Emily shares how inclusive library and Famis books integrate with the concept of micro adventuring, reinforcing the habits of happy families learn together, read t

In this heartfelt episode of "Helping Families Be Happy," host Christopher Robbins, co-founder of Familiars Publishing, engages with Lisa Sugarman, a noted author, nationally syndicated columnist, and mental health advocate. They delve into improving relationships and understanding when a loved one comes out as LGBTQ+. Through Lisa's professional and personal insights, the episode illuminates the complexities of family, love, and acceptance within the context of LGBTQ+ experiences. 
Episode Highlights
- **00:00:09:** Christopher Robbins introduces the podcast theme, focusing on family, love, and relationships, and introduces Lisa Sugarman as the guest. He outlines her extensive background as an author, mental health advocate, and her involvement with the Trevor Project, underscoring her commitment to supporting LGBTQ+ youth. 
- **00:01:18:** Lisa's contributions to mental health awareness and LGBTQ+ advocacy are highlighted, including her writing and her role in supporting individuals facing suicide risk. Their discussion promises to explore navigating family and friend relationships within the LGBTQ+ context. 
- **00:02:11:** Lisa expresses her excitement about the conversation, setting a positive and engaging tone for the discussion. This moment further establishes the rapport and mutual respect between the host and guest, encouraging open dialogue. 
- **00:02:16:** The conversation shifts to the Trevor Project, with Lisa explaining its significance as a crisis support hotline for LGBTQ+ youth. She articulates the kinds of support provided, emphasizing the project's vital role in offering a lifeline to at-risk youth. 
- **00:03:07:** The discussion takes a deeper dive into the necessity of supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, with a particular focus on 'holding space' for those coming out. Lisa clarifies the concept of 'holding space' as a non-judgmental, supportive practice that acknowledges and validates personal experiences. 
- **00:05:09:** Lisa shares a poignant analogy to underline the importance of simply being present and listening when supporting someone who's grieving or revealing a significant part of their identity. 
- **00:05:22:** The role of genuine listening and asking open-ended questions when engaging with LGBTQ+ individuals is explored. This approach fosters a safe environment for personal revelations and strengthens support systems. 
- **00:06:31:** Lisa details how the Trevor Project approaches calls from individuals expressing suicidal thoughts, focusing on de-escalation and empowering callers to seek supportive resources. This segment underscores the critical nature of immediate and empathetic response to mental health crises. 
- **00:08:43:** Avoiding assumptions and the importance of understanding individual stories without prejudice are discussed. Emphasizing the necessity of keeping personal biases in check to support effectively. 
- **00:09:21:** Strategies for respectfully addressing and acknowledging people's preferred pronouns and identities are shared, underscoring the value of personal recognition and respect in supporting LGBTQ+ individuals. 
- **00:10:25:** Lisa reflects on her personal experiences with coming out stories within her family, emphasizing the transformative power of listening and accepting. 
- **00:12:19:** The significance of language and correct pronoun usage is highlighted as essential for validating and respecting individuals’ identities, fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance. 
- **00:13:47:** A broader discussion on privilege and advocacy for the underrepresented encapsulates the episode's theme Show Notes By Barevalue
of empathy and action. Lisa encourages leveraging privilege to uplift and support marginalized communities. 
- **00:16:08:** The conversation concludes with an emphasis on love and respect for all individuals, regardless of their background or identity, reflecting on the potential for a more inclusive and compassionate world. 
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In this heartwarming episode of the Helping Families Be Happy podcast, host Adina Oberman engages in an insightful and deeply personal conversation with Christopher Robbins, a devoted father of nine and the founder and CEO of Familius. Through their dialogue, they explore the multifaceted experiences of fatherhood, from the pivotal moments that define one's journey as a parent to the broader impacts of fatherhood on personal and professional growth. Christopher shares his unique perspectives on nurturing family relationships, maintaining work-life balance, and cultivating a household centered around love, learning, and laughter. 
Episode Highlights: 
- **00:00:10:** Adina warmly introduces the podcast, setting the stage for a discussion that delves into the complexities and joys of family life. She briefly outlines her background and her passion for connecting families with impactful literature, segueing into Christopher Robbins' rich history as a father, publisher, and advocate for family happiness. 
- **00:01:19:** Christopher recounts his journey from launching an arts magazine in Utah to becoming the CEO of Gibb Smith, highlighting his successes in the publishing industry alongside his growth as a father. This segment illuminates how his personal and professional lives intertwine, shaping his mission to support families through literature. 
- **00:02:57 -“ 00:03:35:** A lighthearted exchange reveals Christopher's nervous excitement about being on the other side of the mic, setting the tone for a candid and engaging conversation. His humility and openness pave the way for deeper discussions on fatherhood. 
- **00:03:35:** Christopher shares a transformative moment upon the birth of his first child, encapsulating the profound sense of responsibility and love that defines fatherhood. This anecdote serves as a powerful introduction to the theme of fatherhood as a journey of continuous learning and adaptation. 
- **00:05:10 -“ 00:06:43:** The discussion shifts to the meaningful shifts that occur once children enter one's life, focusing on the sacrifices and changes in priorities that parenting entails. Christopher's personal anecdotes provide tangible examples of how fatherhood necessitates a reevaluation of one's passions, interests, and daily routines. 
- **00:07:25 -“ 00:08:07:** Adina and Christopher discuss the challenges today's fathers face, comparing and contrasting them with those of past generations. The conversation highlights the impact of technology, societal expectations, and the changing landscape of parenthood. 
- **00:08:07 -“ 00:12:02:** Addressing the importance of mentorship and the role of fathers in model resilience, the discussion delves into strategies for navigating fatherhood amidst modern challenges. Christopher emphasizes the value of being present, the role of discipline balanced with understanding, and the long-term impact of imparting wisdom through action and example. 
- **00:13:32 -“ 00:14:22:** Light-hearted moments intersperse the conversation, underscoring the joy and humor that accompany the trials of parenting. Adina and Christopher share personal experiences that illustrate the unpredictable and rewarding nature of raising children. 
- **00:14:22:** Christopher offers sage advice to parents, stressing the significance of prioritizing family over career, sharing meals together as a way to foster communication, and setting aside quality time to strengthen family bonds. His reflections on nurturing relationships within the family unit are invaluable for anyone navigating the complexities of parenthood. 
- **00:22:28 -“ 00:26:20:** The episode concludes with Christopher's reflections on his upbringing and the mentors who shaped his approach to fatherhood. He advocates for the positive influence men can have in their communities and within their families, emphasizing the lasting impact of mentorship and engaged parenting. 
 
Show Notes By Barevalue
Key Takeaways: