Other Peoples Parenting

Schuyler Hurwitz and Karen Quinn
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Parenting

'Other People's Parenting' is hosted by mother daughter duo Karen Quinn (New York Times best selling author of The Ivy Chronicles , founder of early childhood education companies Habit Coach and Testing Mom) and Schuyler Hurwitz (amateur parent). They read contemporary, classic, and controversial parenting books and give you the gist with a sense of humor, so you can implement the methods or just be able to discuss them at school functions.

  1. 5d ago

    Oreo Gate: When a Cookie in a Lunch Box Becomes a Parenting Debate

    “Oreo Gate” is the latest social media debate centered around a seemingly simple question. Should parents put Oreos in their kids’ lunchboxes if one child in the class isn’t allowed to have them? It’s one thing if we’re talking food allergies – this would be a clear safety issue. Most schools have legitimate policies around allergens, and those rules exist to protect children. But asking families to avoid packing a beloved food like an Oreo simply because another child isn’t permitted to eat one is a different story. Parents argue that children will inevitably encounter other kids eating different foods, and that learning to navigate those differences is part of growing up. Others feel that minimizing situations where a child feels excluded is a reasonable act of kindness and consideration, particularly when it comes to young children who just want a yummy treat. In this episode of “Other People’s Parenting,” we explore some of the questions brought up by the Oreo Gate posts. These include: · Should parents shield their children from envy, even when the target of envy is a simple Oreo cookie? · Building resilience – Is it reasonable for parents to demand that the community conforms to their child or should they teach their child to conform to the community? · When you ban a food, will that backfire, making a child want it even more? Does forbidding “unhealthy” treats lead to eating disorders? · How do we teach kids to eat healthy foods without labeling foods as good or bad? · How do you get a young child to follow your house rules when they aren’t at home? · Is a Mom Group Chat the best place to resolve conflicts between our kids and families? · Should young children be responsible when they share their Oreo with a child who isn’t allowed to have Oreos? · When is it right to get the school involved in a conflict between parents in a classroom? · Will the name “Michelle” soon be synonymous with “Karen”? · When will Michelle give up and give Ava an Oreo for God’s sake! This tension is what has made “Oreo Gate” so fun to follow online: Where does reasonable accommodation end and parental responsibility begin? This debate isn’t really about Oreos. It’s about how much responsibility a community should take for managing children’s feelings, differences, and experiences and whether the answer should be handled by individual families, schools, or some combination of the two. Takeaways: In this episode, we delve into the controversy surrounding a mother's reaction to her child's exposure to Oreos, highlighting the complexities of parenting in a social media age.We explore how parental control over children's diets can lead to social isolation and the importance of teaching children resilience in the face of peer pressure.The discussion emphasizes the necessity for parents to communicate openly with their children, ensuring that they feel safe expressing their desires and frustrations.We also address the potential psychological effects on children when parents impose strict dietary restrictions, which can foster feelings of entitlement and anxiety about food choices. Links referenced in this episode: testingmom.comhabitcoach.comtiktok.cominstagram.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Habit CoachTesting MomOreoTikTok

    Oreo Gate: When a Cookie in a Lunch Box Becomes a Parenting Debate

  2. Aug 19

    'More Than Happy': Insights from Amish Parenting

    More Than Happy: The Wisdom of Amish Parenting, by Serena Miller and Paul Stutzman How to Get Amish Level Obedience Without the Bonnets! This week on the “Other People’s Parenting” podcast, we are looking at parents who don’t need parental control apps because they don’t even have electricity! Yes, we are delving into the book “More Than Happy: The Wisdom of Amish Parenting,” by Serena Miller and Paul Stutzman. Miller is the author of several “clean Amish romance novels,” and Stutzman was born into an Amish family and later became a Mennonite, which is the less strict version of being Amish. In this episode, we explore some of the more unique practices of Amish parenting, such as their emphasis on community, family, discipline, and other day-to-day practices and cultural influences that make Amish children so mature and well-adjusted. Some of the questions we explore include: · Why are Amish children so well behaved? · How do Amish parents discipline their children? Do the Amish spank their kids? · How do the Amish get their children to help with chores without complaining? · How do the Amish build such a strong work ethic in their kids? · How do Amish children entertain themselves without television, video games, cell phones or screens? · Does limiting technology make Amish children happier? · Why do Amish children stop going to school after 8th grade? · Why do Amish families drive buggies and live off the grid? · Is the Amish faith imposed on Amish kids or do they have a choice? · What is Rumspringa and how does it help Amish teens decide whether to officially join the church? · What is the average size of an Amish family? · Do Amish wives have jobs? In discussing what it is like to bring up children in Amish homes, we reflect on how their culture and practices are applicable to modern parenting, urging parents to consider how elements of Amish wisdom can enhance their own family practices. Takeaways: The podcast episode thoroughly explores the principles of Amish parenting, emphasizing community, faith, and shared responsibilities that create a nurturing environment for children.Listeners gain insights into the unique practices of Amish families, including their approach to discipline, which focuses on teaching respect and responsibility rather than punitive measures.The discussion highlights the importance of selflessness in Amish culture, where children are taught that the needs of the family and community take precedence over individual desires.Rumspringa is introduced as a significant rite of passage for Amish teenagers, allowing them to experience the outside world before making a lifelong commitment to their community and faith. Companies mentioned in this episode: Habit CoachTesting MomMore Than HappySerena MillerAmish Helping Fund

    'More Than Happy': Insights from Amish Parenting

  3. Aug 12

    Crib Sheet (Featuring Jersey Banks of The Urban Cowboy)

    In this week’s episode, we are joined by Jersey Banks, who is the co-founder of The Urban Cowboy Hotels and Lodge, and mother to a 6-year-old daughter. Here, we discuss Emily Oster’s book, “Crib Sheet.” Emily Oster is an economics professor at the University of Chicago who spends her life looking at research studies and data, evaluating the quality of information and conclusions in studies. In her parenting books, she tells us which parenting studies we can rely on and which are flawed. In “Crib Sheet,” Oster looks at questions parents face in the first three years of parenting:  Should I bathe my baby immediately after birth?  Should I circumcise my newborn son?  Should I let the hospital give my newborn routine blood and hearing tests?  Should I room in with my baby in the hospital?  What do I do if my baby loses weight in the first few days?  What does it mean if my baby has jaundice?  How do I swaddle my baby? And why swaddle?  My baby has colic. What do I do?  What symptoms can I expect after giving birth? Vaginal tearing? Bleeding? A floppy stomach? Serious complications after giving birth to look for?  When can I exercise after giving birth?  When can I have sex after giving birth?  How to handle postnatal blues or depression?  Is it better to breastfeed? Is it okay to bottle-feeding my newborn?  What is nipple confusion?  Can I eat fish after giving birth? Can I drink coffee while nursing?  What is the safest way for me to set up my baby’s crib?  Is co-sleeping with my baby safe?  Which vaccines are safe for me to give my baby?  Should I work or should I be a stay-at-home mom?  Is day care safe for my baby? Is having a nanny better than daycare?  Should I sleep train my child? What does the data say?  How do I introduce solid foods to my baby?  What do I do if my child isn’t reaching their milestones? Are developmental delays treatable?  Can I allow my toddler to watch television or to play games on screens?  When will my child start to talk? If my baby isn’t talking, when do I worry?  How should I potty train my toddler?  How should I discipline my toddler?  How do I choose a pre-school or nursery school program?  What is the best way to space out my children? This being an Emily Oster's book, she examines each of these aspects of parenting through the lens of empirical research and statistical analysis. We highlight the necessity of discerning credible studies from flawed ones, and Oster provides parents with the tools to make informed decisions regarding child raising choices. Our discussion touches upon the critical topics mentioned, emphasizing the importance of making evidence-based parenting choices. We also talk about our personal experiences as mothers. Ultimately, this episode is interested in how data-driven insights can empower mothers and fathers to navigate the complexities of raising children in today's world. Takeaways: The podcast highlights the importance of Emily Oster's research in dispelling common misconceptions about parenting practices.Listeners are encouraged to approach parenting decisions based on data rather than societal pressures or anecdotal evidence.The episode emphasizes that parental choices regarding work versus stay-at-home parenting should be tailored to individual family needs.It is noted that children's developmental progress and well-being are significantly influenced by the quality of childcare arrangements they receive. Companies mentioned in this episode: Habit CoachTesting MomUrban Cowboy LodgeEmily OsterClif Bars

    Crib Sheet (Featuring Jersey Banks of The Urban Cowboy)

  4. Aug 5

    'Yesteryear': A Journey Through Parenting and Identity

    Think your morning routine is chaotic? At least you aren’t churning butter in 1855. Let’s talk Yesteryear. This week’s episode dives into a book that has been dominating our book clubs, social media feeds, and group chats. We are talking about Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke. This is a fictional story that critiques contemporary parenting dynamics through the lens of a trad-wife influencer who grapples with her curated online persona and the reality of her unhappy existence. Does this remind you of anyone or anything…Hannah Neeleman of Ballerina Farm perhaps? In Yesteryear, we meet Natalie, a glamorous, high-profile influencer who runs Yesteryear Ranch. On the outside, she is the ultimate tradwife — she bakes sourdough from scratch, wears gorgeous vintage dresses, has a beautiful family, and claims she is quite literally perfect at being alive. As modern moms, we all know that behind every perfectly carefully edited, aesthetic grid post, there is a chaotic reality. In this book, the line between performance and reality doesn't just blur—it fractures. The story takes us back and forth between Natalies modern, expertly selected and presented online life and a mysterious, grueling 1855 pioneer timeline, building up incredible psychological suspense that asks a massive question: What happens to a mother when the pressure to maintain a perfect illusion completely takes over? Whether you love scrolling through lifestyle influencers for inspiration, or you find yourself longing for a simpler life, this book holds up a fascinating, dark mirror to modern motherhood. Join us as we consider the societal pressures on women within the context of traditional and modern roles and discuss Natalie’s eventual unraveling as she confronts the absurdities of her lifestyle choices. So, grab your coffee or a glass of wine and let's talk about Yesteryear. Takeaways: This episode dives into the complexities of parenting as portrayed in the fictional narrative of Yesteryear.The discussion emphasizes the impact of societal expectations on women's roles in both contemporary and historical contexts.An exploration of mental health themes is evident, highlighting the struggles of the protagonist amidst societal pressures.The contrasting lifestyles of traditional and modern parenting are examined, raising questions about personal fulfillment and societal norms. Links referenced in this episode: TestingMom.comBallerinaFarm.comKissingMom.comHabitCoach.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Habit CoachBallerina FarmYesteryear RanchRuby FrankieTesting Mom

    'Yesteryear': A Journey Through Parenting and Identity

  5. Jul 29

    Do You Want to Be a Tradwife? The Agony and Ecstasy of Total Dependency

    On this episode of 'Other People's Parenting' hosted by mother daughter duo Karen Quinn (New York Times best selling author of The Ivy Chronicles , founder of Habit Coach and Testing Mom) and Schuyler Hurwitz (amateur parent) we wanted to discuss Trad Wives before we review New York Times bestseller, “Yesteryear” (coming next week) by Caro Claire Burke. Yesteryear is about Natalie Heller Mills, a mother of 5 who lives on Yesteryear Ranch in Idaho. She is a tradwife influencer with a huge social media following of people who love her and think she represents the ideal of American motherhood, and people who hate her, and think she’s everything that’s wrong with women today. What is a tradwife? She is someone who follows traditional values and traditional living. She avoids modern appliances, devotes herself to childrearing, homemaking, and self-sufficiency. She aims to live off the land, making clothing, baking bread and food from scratch. The tradwife is a popular Tik Tok trend now, led by social influencers such as Nara Smith and Hannah Neeleman of Ballerina Farms. These Tik Tok stars are in fact breadwinners and working women, which is the opposite of who they purport themselves to be. It appears that Natalie, the heroine of Yesteryear, is modeled after these real-life influencers. Ultimately, we cover an article about Belle Burden’s memoir “Strangers,” another New York Times bestseller, about a high-society stay-at-home mom whose marriage collapses after her husband’s affair. This book is an important discussion point in the tradwife movement because it exposes the dangers of turning financial control over to your partner, showing that even great wealth cannot protect a woman who checks out of understanding her family’s financial situation. This book serves as a stark financial warning for women ceding control to their husbands. Articles discussed include: My Day with the Trad Wife Queen and What it Taught Me The Woman Who Taught Me to Be a Tradwife – Over Bible Study, Donuts, and Group Tea, I learned the Rules of Submission My Goal With this Prenup is to Avoid What Happened to Belle – Women See Belle Burden’s Strangers as the New Marriage Manuel The Unglamorous Truth About the Average Tradwife – Most Stay-at-home Wives Simply Can’t Afford Childcare In this episode, we delve into the complex phenomenon of tradwives and their implications in contemporary parenting dynamics.We explore the multifaceted lives of women like Hannah Neelman, who embody both traditional roles and entrepreneurial spirit.The discussion highlights the contradictions faced by tradwives, as they navigate societal expectations and personal aspirations.We emphasize the importance of financial literacy for women, especially those in traditional marriage roles, to ensure their independence and security. Links referenced in this episode: ballerinafarmlife.comhabitcoach.comtestingmom.comnewyorktimes.comthecut.comtheatlantic.comhulu.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Habit CoachTesting MomBallerina FarmJetBlueTimes of LondonBravoThe McBeesTaylor SheridanNew York TimesThe AtlanticNew York MagazineThe CutBell Burden

    Do You Want to Be a Tradwife? The Agony and Ecstasy of Total Dependency

  6. Jul 22

    The Ferber Method - Is It Really Just Cry It Out?

    On this episode of 'Other People's Parenting' hosted by mother daughter duo Karen Quinn (New York Times best selling author of The Ivy Chronicles , founder of Habit Coach and Testing Mom) and Schuyler Hurwitz (amateur parent), we were inspired to read “Solve Your Child’s Sleep Problems,” by Richard Ferber, M.D., after so many other books we’ve read came out against “sleep training” children. In other books, Dr. Ferber’s sleep training is known reductively as the “cry it out method.” Books like “Being There,” “Good Inside” and “The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read,” all criticize sleep training. So, we decided to read Ferber’s book and see what all the fuss was about. In this edition, Dr. Ferber updated his message to correct widespread misconceptions regarding his methods. He says his goal has always been to help parents understand how sleep works, determine the causes of their children’s sleep problems, and choose the sleep treatment that fits their own philosophy of child rearing. He says that many people have misunderstood his work and incorrectly described it. He states that leaving a child in a crib to cry for long periods of time until they fall asleep is not a method he approves of. In this episode, we cover the misconceptions surrounding Dr. Ferber’s method, along with methods for undoing troublesome sleep associations babies must unlearn before they can soothe themselves to sleep. He demonstrates the “Progressive-Waiting” sleep- training to help children to give up old bad habits and put themselves to sleep without fuss. Karen and Schuyler have both used this method to great success! In this episode, we reflect on balancing your child’s sleep needs with the wellbeing of parents and discuss how this particular book is more of an encyclopedia to be referred to as sleep problems come up from infancy through adolescence. We believe that there are benefits to implementing a structured sleep training approach and dispel the myth that there are negative outcomes for children who go through the Ferber Method of sleep training. Takeaways: The podcast emphasizes the importance of understanding and applying Dr. Ferber's sleep training methods, which are often misrepresented.Listeners are informed that the Ferber Method is not solely about letting children cry it out, but rather about fostering independent sleep skills.The hosts share personal experiences illustrating the challenges of sleep training and the emotional toll it can take on parents and children alike.The episode highlights the necessity of a consistent sleep routine for children, which is crucial for their development and well-being.The discussion touches on common misconceptions about sleep training and the psychological implications of well-rested parents on child-rearing.Listeners are encouraged to explore the nuances of sleep issues and recognize that each child's needs may vary significantly. Links referenced in this episode: testingmom.comstudyisland.commobymax.combrainpop.comscholastic.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Habit CoachTesting MomDr. FerberTheorist StudiosTestingMom.comStudy IslandMoby MaxBrain PopScholastic

    The Ferber Method - Is It Really Just Cry It Out?

  7. Jul 15

    Our Top Ten Parenting Books of 2026

    On this episode of 'Other People's Parenting' hosted by mother daughter duo Karen Quinn (New York Times best selling author of The Ivy Chronicles , founder of Habit Coach and Testing Mom) and Schuyler Hurwitz (amateur parent) - we discuss notable parenting books, as we endeavor to provide our listeners with an overview and insightful analysis of the literature that shapes contemporary parenting practices. As we embark on this engaging exploration, we delve into a recap of our favorite books from the previous season, organized from ten to one allowing for a structured and coherent examination of each. We aim to highlight the good points and key messages conveyed, while also reflecting upon the personal anecdotes and insights that have emerged from our own experiences as mothers in the realm of parenting. We strive to foster a meaningful dialogue that encourages our listeners to engage with this literature and apply its teachings in their own parenting journeys. We hope that this episode not only serves as an informative resource but also inspires a deeper understanding of the complexities and nuances inherent in the art of parenting! The episode presents a thorough exploration of parenting literature, as conveyed by hosts Schuyler Hurwitz and her mother, Karen Quinn, in their podcast 'Other People's Parenting.' The hosts reflect on notable parenting books reviewed in the previous season, showcasing their insights and experiences with each text. A significant theme that emerges is the detrimental influence of diet culture on children's self-perception, as articulated in Virginia Soul Smith's 'Fat Talk: Parenting in the Age of Diet Culture.' This book prompts a critical examination of societal attitudes towards weight and their implications for child development, urging parents to foster healthier relationships with food and body image. They engage with the arguments presented in 'The Anxious Generation,' which posits that overexposure to screens contributes to heightened anxiety among youth. This discussion is enriched by empirical evidence that highlights the need for parents to navigate technology's pervasive presence in their children's lives thoughtfully. As the episode progresses, the hosts thoughtfully recap their favorite books from the prior season, structured in reverse order to captivate both new and returning listeners. Takeaways: This episode offers a comprehensive recap of our favorite parenting books from Season One, highlighting key insights and lessons learned.We discuss the significant impact of technology and societal pressures on modern parenting, emphasizing the importance of emotional well-being for children.The value of understanding diverse parenting approaches from around the world is explored, revealing different cultural attitudes towards child-rearing.We emphasize the necessity of fostering a growth mindset in children, encouraging perseverance and resilience in the face of challenges. Links referenced in this episode: testingmom.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Habit CoachTesting Mom

    Our Top Ten Parenting Books of 2026

  8. Jul 1

    Kids Who Go No Contact - Navigating Stories of Estrangement

    On this episode of the podcast, 'Other People's Parenting. hosted by mother daughter duo Karen Quinn (New York Times best-selling author of The Ivy Chronicles, founder of Habit Coach and Testing Mom) and Schuyler Hurwitz (amateur parent) - we discuss the top 10 favorite parenting books reviewed in Season 1 of the ‘Other People’s Parenting’ podcast, and what we learned from each book. We also cover our 2 least favorite books of the season. Here they are: 1. Hunt, Gather, Parent, by Michaeleen Doucleff An American mother who grew up in an angry home and is struggling with raising her willful 3-year-old (Rosy) brings her Rosy with her as she lives and learns about parenting in Indigenous populations – the Maya in Yucatan, the Intuit in the Arctic Circle, the Hadzabe in Tanzania. 2. Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother, Amy Chua This was supposed to be a story of how Chinese parents are better at raising kids than Western ones. But instead, it’s about a bitter clash of cultures, a fleeting taste of glory, and how I was humbled by a 13-year-old. The author is a Yale law professor (Chinese) married to a Jewish Yale law professor.The book came out in 2011 and caused controversy. It’s written like a memoir, felt half serious, half tongue in cheek. She talks about raising her daughters under an authoritative (but also warm) parenting style she called Chinese Parenting or Tiger Parenting. 3. Testing for Kindergarten: Simple Strategies to Help Your Child Ace the Test For Public School Placement, Private School Admissions, Gifted Program Qualification, by Karen Quinn Book tells parents not to go crazy cramming for private school / Gifted admissions tests.Instead, understand the skills being tested are the same skills your child is supposed to master in the first 5 years. You can help them master these skills through everyday interactions and play. Book covers the 7 abilities kids need to score high on IQ and group ability (gifted) tests and how to instill them through daily life. Skills are – Language, Knowledge/comprehension, Memory, Math, Visual Spatial Reasoning, Thinking, Motor Skills + (bonus skills) attention, listening, processing speed. 4. Mindset, by Carol Dweck After decades of research, world-renowned Stanford University psychologist Carol S. Dweck, discovered a simple but groundbreaking idea: the power of mindset. In this book, she shows how success in school, work, sports, the arts, and almost every area of human endeavor can be dramatically influenced by how we think about our talents and abilities. People with a fixed mindset - those who believe that abilities are fixed - are less likely to flourish than those with a growth mindset - those who believe that abilities can be developed. 5. Good Inside, by Dr. Becky Kennedy This book says that current discipline models like time outs, stickers, rewards, punishment – are based on changing outside (observable) behavior rather than non-observable mental states that lead to the behavior. She believes in changing parenting mindset from consequences to connecting with the child, while still maintaining boundaries and parental authority. 6. Bringing Up Bebe, by Pamela Druckerman This was the first book we ever read. We learned how differently children are raised in France. The book offers helpful tips and insights in the French philosophy of child-rearing. It was fascinating. We thought many of their “ways” were worth adopting in America. 7. The Anxious Generation – How the Great Rewiring of Childhood is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness, by Jonathan Haidt This book traces the dramatic decline in youth mental health, linking smartphones and social media to rising rates of depression and anxiety while offering solutions to parents and society. 8. Smart But Scattered, Peg Dawson and Richard Guare For parents of kids age 4 – 13 who have difficulties with 1) getting started, 2) staying focused, 3) impulse-control, 4) emotional control, 5) managing time, 6) organization, 7) planning and prioritizing, 8) remembering things, 9) being flexible, 10) working towards a goal, 11) self-awareness (meta-cognition). 9. 5 Love Languages of Children – by Gary Chapman and Ross Campbell Every child has a primary language in which they understand their parent’s love best.This book teaches you how to recognize and speak your child’s main love language as well as the other 4 love languages you can use to help your child know he is loved so they can grow into a loving responsible adult. 10. a href="https://www.amazon.com/Fat-Talk-Parenting-Diet-Culture/dp/1250892503/ref=sr_1_1?crid=30KMPTOYN6ZUQ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.svG6vekpGxQ8nUEJTliObcPJCiHyVV3cImpSoWmBBEbOgxJ6zFcaYYZA2bNl7skF0rvfeO9Ys9dJkn52xaezdAxYEdetLxa2NUG_BiVHpafyq6qtQOfcyB2VLXWbm0eQUrkFRh7jwkqjNO-qheHM7Wm_pEO91mBt9UXh7BNwArwlxhI15M_LAK6XoX927efxV6VBk8uqq9Aat6QfY15_VxxOonXRD7iC1o7p9px80bw.kY8i-yo9ikDSVSJv6KfEIya71EgHcO_lgHyVVo4pZA8&dib_tag=se&keywords=fat+talk&qid=1784135856&sprefix=fat+%2Caps%2C161&sr=8-1"...

    Kids Who Go No Contact - Navigating Stories of Estrangement
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

'Other People's Parenting' is hosted by mother daughter duo Karen Quinn (New York Times best selling author of The Ivy Chronicles , founder of early childhood education companies Habit Coach and Testing Mom) and Schuyler Hurwitz (amateur parent). They read contemporary, classic, and controversial parenting books and give you the gist with a sense of humor, so you can implement the methods or just be able to discuss them at school functions.

Information

  • Creator
    Schuyler Hurwitz and Karen Quinn
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    32
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Schuyler Hurwitz and Karen Quinn
  • Show Website
    Other Peoples Parenting

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