Parent Confidence Lab

Hans Kullberg & Cristina Bernardo
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Parenting

The Parent Confidence Lab is a podcast hosted by Hans Kullberg and Cristina Bernardo of Avocado Health. We feature leaders across healthcare, public health, and advocacy who are improving outcomes for parents, children, and families. Through real conversations, we explore what’s working, what’s not, and how we can better support parents at scale.

Episodes

  1. 1d ago

    How Dr. Leena Khanzode Is Helping Parents Recognize Mental Health Early, Break Stigma, and Raise Emotionally Resilient Kids

    Episode Summary:Supporting children's mental health has never been more important, or more challenging. In this episode of Parent Confidence Lab, Hans and Cristina welcome Dr. Leena Khanzode, a board-certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist, founder of Silicon Valley Psychiatry, founder and Executive Director of the Taarika Foundation, and Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor at Stanford University School of Medicine, to discuss how parents can recognize mental health concerns early and confidently support their children's emotional well-being. Drawing from both her professional expertise and deeply personal experience growing up with parents affected by bipolar disorder, Dr. Khanzode shares why early identification and intervention can dramatically improve a child's quality of life. She explains how anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic are affecting children at increasingly younger ages, and why education and awareness are essential for parents. The conversation also explores practical strategies for recognizing early warning signs, reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness, navigating smartphones and social media, setting healthy technology boundaries, understanding the opportunities and limitations of AI in mental healthcare, and helping children build confidence and healthy body image. Throughout the episode, Dr. Khanzode reminds parents that mental health deserves the same attention and compassion as physical health—and that informed, supportive parents are one of the greatest protective factors a child can have. What You'll LearnWhy early intervention can significantly improve children's mental health outcomesCommon warning signs of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorderHow parents can recognize when behavioral changes require professional supportWhy education helps families reduce the stigma surrounding mental illnessThe lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children's emotional developmentPractical ways to support children experiencing anxiety and depressionHealthy strategies for managing smartphones, social media, and screen timeWhy creating family technology boundaries benefits children's mental healthThe benefits and limitations of AI tools for mental health supportHow parents can foster healthy body image, confidence, and emotional resilience About Dr. Leena KhanzodeDr. Leena Khanzode is a board-certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist and the Founder of Silicon Valley Psychiatry. She is also the Founder and Executive Director of the Taarika Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and providing education and early intervention resources for children, adolescents, parents, educators, and communities. In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Khanzode serves as an Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and Child Development at Stanford University School of Medicine. Through her work in clinical care, education, nonprofit leadership, and public advocacy, she is committed to helping families build resilience and improve lifelong mental wellness. Connect with Dr. Leena KhanzodeLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/leena-khanzode-5249891b4Taarika Foundation: taarika.foundationSilicon Valley Psychiatry: siliconvalleypsychiatry.comMindful, Beautiful & Thriving PodcastStanford University Faculty Profile Listen & SubscribeApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon MusicYouTubeiHeart RadioCaptivate Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health, your parenting partner in your pocket. Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up here: https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/

  2. Jul 28

    How Melanie Reynolds Is Advancing Pediatric Palliative Care, Supporting Healthcare Providers, and Helping Parents Become Stronger Advocates for Their Children

    Episode Summary:Supporting a child through a serious illness is one of the greatest challenges any parent can face. In this episode of Parent Confidence Lab, Hans and Cristina welcome Melanie Reynolds, MS, APRN, NPD-BC, CPNP-AC/PC, a pediatric palliative care nurse practitioner, healthcare educator, and advanced practice leader at Children's Hospital Los Angeles, for an inspiring conversation about compassionate care, parent advocacy, and building stronger healthcare partnerships. Drawing from her years of experience in pediatric intensive care, cardiac intensive care, pain management, and pediatric palliative care, Melanie shares the personal experience that inspired her career and explains how palliative care focuses on improving quality of life—not simply end-of-life care. Through powerful patient stories, she illustrates how thoughtful pain management, creative problem-solving, and family-centered care can help children spend meaningful time with the people they love. The conversation also explores the emotional realities of caring for critically ill children, how becoming a mother changed Melanie's perspective as a clinician, and why supporting healthcare providers is essential to delivering better patient outcomes. Melanie discusses her work developing Children's Hospital Los Angeles' Advanced Practice Provider Fellowship, mentoring future nurse practitioners and physician associates, and creating psychologically safe environments that reduce burnout and improve patient care. For parents, Melanie offers practical guidance on trusting their instincts, communicating openly with medical teams, advocating confidently for their children, and embracing the moments that matter most, even during life's most difficult seasons. What You'll LearnWhat pediatric palliative care really means beyond end-of-life careWhy effective pain management can dramatically improve a child's quality of lifeHow one young patient's experience inspired Melanie's career in pediatric palliative careWhy parents are the most valuable members of their child's healthcare teamHow sharing your observations helps providers make better clinical decisionsThe importance of trusting your instincts when something feels wrongHow collaboration between families and healthcare providers improves patient outcomesWhat healthcare organizations can do to support providers and reduce burnoutWhy psychological safety and mentorship are essential for developing future healthcare leadersSimple mindfulness techniques, including the "Awe Walk," for managing stress and building resilienceHow becoming a parent transformed Melanie's approach to caring for children and families About Melanie ReynoldsMelanie Reynolds, MS, APRN, NPD-BC, CPNP-AC/PC, is a pediatric palliative care nurse practitioner and healthcare leader at Children's Hospital Los Angeles. She serves as the APP Fellowship Director and Senior Advanced Practice Professional Development Specialist, where she leads programs that support education, professional development, and provider well-being for advanced practice clinicians. Passionate about compassionate pediatric care, mentorship, and family-centered healthcare, Melanie is dedicated to helping children, families, and healthcare providers thrive together. Connect with Melanie ReynoldsLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melaniewreynolds Listen & SubscribeApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon MusicYouTubeiHeart RadioCaptivate Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health, your parenting partner in your pocket. Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox. Sign up here: https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/

    How Melanie Reynolds Is Advancing Pediatric Palliative Care, Supporting Healthcare Providers, and Helping Parents Become Stronger Advocates for Their Children

  3. Jul 21

    How Dr. Steven Abelowitz Is Helping Parents Build Trust, Navigate Modern Healthcare, and Raise Healthier Children

    Episode Summary:Making informed healthcare decisions for children has never been more challenging. Between online information, changing medical recommendations, and the growing role of technology, parents often find themselves searching for trusted guidance. In this episode of Parent Confidence Lab, Hans and Cristina welcome Dr. Steven Abelowitz, board-certified pediatrician, physician executive, healthcare entrepreneur, founder and Medical Director of Ocean Pediatrics, and father of three, to discuss how parents can confidently navigate today's pediatric healthcare landscape while building lifelong partnerships with their child's physician. Drawing from nearly three decades of clinical experience, Dr. Abelowitz explains why continuity of care and strong relationships between pediatricians and families lead to better health outcomes. He shares practical advice on preparing for medical appointments, asking better questions, evaluating healthcare information online, making informed decisions about vaccinations, recognizing early signs of anxiety and depression, and balancing children's use of technology and social media. The conversation also explores the opportunities and challenges artificial intelligence brings to healthcare, why physician-led care remains essential despite technological advances, and how parents can create a positive home environment that fosters resilience, confidence, and emotional well-being. Reflecting on both his medical career and his own parenting journey, Dr. Abelowitz reminds parents that learning, adapting, and trusting the right resources are key to raising healthy, thriving children. What You'll LearnWhy finding a trusted pediatrician creates better long-term health outcomesHow parents can prepare for pediatric visits and ask more meaningful questionsWhy collaboration between physicians and parents improves medical decision-makingPractical ways to identify reliable medical information and avoid misinformationWhat parents should know about vaccines and evidence-based healthcare decisionsHealthy approaches to managing children's screen time and social media useHow pediatricians recognize early signs of anxiety, depression, and behavioral health concernsThe benefits and limitations of artificial intelligence in pediatric healthcareParenting strategies for handling tantrums, emotional regulation, and difficult momentsWhy creating a positive, trusting family environment helps children build lifelong confidence and resilience About Dr. Steven AbelowitzDr. Steven Abelowitz, MD, FAAP, is a board-certified pediatrician, physician executive, and founder and Medical Director of Ocean Pediatrics in Orange County, California. With nearly 30 years of experience, he is passionate about providing relationship-based pediatric care and helping families make informed healthcare decisions. Dr. Abelowitz previously founded Coastal Kids Medical Group, one of Southern California's largest independent pediatric organizations, and currently serves as an Adjunct Professor at the USC Keck School of Medicine. As a husband and father of three, he combines decades of clinical expertise with firsthand parenting experience to help children and families thrive. Connect with Dr. Steven AbelowitzLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/steven-abelowitz-md-faap-a5b0b01bOcean Pediatrics: ocean-pediatrics.com Listen & SubscribeApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon MusicYouTubeiHeart RadioCaptivate Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health, your parenting partner in your pocket. Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox. Sign up here: https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/

    How Dr. Steven Abelowitz Is Helping Parents Build Trust, Navigate Modern Healthcare, and Raise Healthier Children

  4. Jul 14

    How Dr. Zaid Fadul Is Empowering Parents to Advocate for Their Children with Better Healthcare, AI, and Confidence

    Episode Summary:Navigating today's healthcare system can feel overwhelming for parents, especially when they're trying to make the best decisions for their children. In this episode of Parent Confidence Lab, Hans and Cristina welcome Dr. Zaid Fadul, a Harvard-trained physician, healthcare innovator, CEO of Bespoke Concierge MD, and proud father of four, to discuss how parents can become stronger advocates for their children's health while embracing new technologies like artificial intelligence. Drawing from his experience in family medicine, addiction medicine, concierge healthcare, and military service as a U.S. Air Force Reserve flight surgeon, Dr. Fadul explains why healthcare works best when physicians and parents become collaborative partners. He shares practical advice on improving health literacy, asking better questions during medical appointments, using AI responsibly to understand diagnoses, and trusting parental instincts when something feels wrong. The conversation also dives into parenting itself—from raising emotionally resilient children and navigating technology addiction to balancing discipline with compassion. Dr. Fadul offers honest reflections on fatherhood, longevity, apologizing to your children, and why forgiving yourself as a parent is just as important as being patient with your kids. What You'll LearnWhy parents are their child's most important healthcare advocateHow trusting your instincts can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomesThe importance of health literacy in making informed medical decisionsHow AI can help parents understand medical information without replacing physiciansBest practices for using AI safely and responsibly for healthcare questionsWhy collaboration between doctors and parents leads to better careHow to recognize the root causes behind childhood and teenage addictionsPractical parenting strategies for discipline, communication, and emotional resilienceWhy apologizing to your children builds trust and healthy relationshipsHow self-compassion helps parents become more confident over time About Dr. Zaid FadulDr. Zaid Fadul is a dual board-certified physician in Family Medicine and Addiction Medicine, a Harvard-trained healthcare leader, and CEO of Bespoke Concierge MD. He also serves as a Flight Surgeon with the U.S. Air Force Reserve and is passionate about simplifying healthcare through education, technology, and patient empowerment. As a husband and father of four, Dr. Fadul combines clinical expertise with real-world parenting experience to help families become more informed, confident advocates for their children's health. Connect with Dr. Zaid FadulLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drfadulYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drzaidfadulBecome a Patient: shop.bespokeconciergemd.comInstagram: instagram.com/drzaidfadulTikTok: tiktok.com/@drzaidfadulmdBespoke Concierge MD: bespokeconciergemd.com Listen & SubscribeApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon MusicYouTubeiHeart RadioCaptivate Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health, your parenting partner in your pocket. Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox. Sign up here: https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/

    How Dr. Zaid Fadul Is Empowering Parents to Advocate for Their Children with Better Healthcare, AI, and Confidence

  5. Jun 30

    How Dr. Nora Dennis Is Transforming Youth Mental Health Through Nature, Community, and Holistic Healing

    Episode Summary:Mental health challenges among young people continue to rise, leaving many parents searching for approaches that go beyond traditional treatment. In this episode of Parent Confidence Lab, Hans and Cristina sit down with Dr. Nora Dennis, psychiatrist, addiction medicine physician, and founder of Jubilee Healing Farm, to explore a new model of healing rooted in nature, community, and human connection. Drawing from her experience leading behavioral health within the healthcare system, Dr. Dennis explains why she left conventional medicine to create a healing farm where movement, sunlight, sleep, meaningful relationships, and time outdoors are integrated into mental health care. She shares how loneliness, excessive screen time, disrupted routines, and social isolation have contributed to the growing youth mental health crisis—and why rebuilding connection is essential for lasting recovery. The conversation explores practical strategies parents can use to support their children, including creating healthy routines, encouraging outdoor play, reducing screen dependence, fostering gratitude, and finding meaningful ways to reconnect with teenagers. Dr. Dennis also discusses the science behind social connection, mirror neurons, forest bathing, and why healing happens best when people experience belonging within a supportive community. What You'll LearnWhy nature plays a powerful role in mental health and emotional healingHow excessive screen time contributes to anxiety, depression, and isolationWhy routines around sleep, meals, movement, and social connection improve mental wellnessThe importance of community and shared healing in recoveryHow loneliness impacts teenagers and emerging adultsWhy gratitude, wonder, and play strengthen emotional resilienceHow parents can reconnect with teens through shared activities instead of constant conversationThe science behind mirror neurons and face-to-face human connectionWhy movement and exercise can be as effective as medication for some forms of depressionHow holistic care addresses the whole person—not just symptoms About Nora DennisDr. Nora Dennis is a board-certified psychiatrist and addiction medicine physician with a background in maternal and child health. She is the founder of Jubilee Healing Farm, an innovative mental health clinic in North Carolina that combines evidence-based psychiatric care with nature, community, and holistic wellness practices. Through her work, Dr. Dennis is helping young adults and families discover new pathways toward resilience, healing, and human flourishing. Connect with Nora DennisWebsite: https://www.jubileehealingfarm.org/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nora-dennis/ Listen & SubscribeApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon MusicYouTubeiHeart RadioCaptivate Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health, your parenting partner in your pocket. Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox. Sign up here: https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/

    How Dr. Nora Dennis Is Transforming Youth Mental Health Through Nature, Community, and Holistic Healing

  6. Jun 24

    How Elizabeth Wilberg Is Helping Families Build Strong Foundations Through Compassion, Early Support, and Community Care

    Episode Summary: Parenting often requires balancing hope, resilience, and perseverance through both everyday challenges and life’s most difficult moments. Elizabeth Wilberg joins Hans and Cristina on the Parent Confidence Lab podcast to share her journey as a mother, nonprofit leader, and advocate for children and families. As Executive Director of Episcopal Community Services in San Diego, Elizabeth oversees programs that support early childhood education, children’s mental health, homelessness prevention, substance use recovery, and family stability. Elizabeth discusses how her own path to motherhood through adoption and IVF shaped her perspective on parenting, leadership, and community service. She explains why supporting children early in life can change the trajectory of entire families and how compassion, connection, and belonging are at the heart of effective family support programs. The conversation also explores grief, infertility, resilience, optimism, and the importance of showing up for people during life’s hardest seasons. What You’ll LearnWhy early childhood intervention can create lifelong positive outcomesHow strong family support helps children thriveThe role compassion plays in effective social servicesWhy optimism and an abundance mindset can strengthen resilienceHow adoption and IVF shaped Elizabeth’s parenting journeyThe importance of supporting parents alongside their childrenWhy showing up matters when loved ones are experiencing grief or lossHow Head Start programs help children develop academically and emotionallyThe value of inclusion, belonging, and community in child developmentWhy trusting your instincts is one of the most important parenting skills About Elizabeth WilbergElizabeth Wilberg is a nonprofit executive, writer, mother, and community advocate. She serves as Executive Director of Episcopal Community Services in San Diego, where she leads programs that support thousands of children, adults, and families each year. Through her work and writing, Elizabeth focuses on creating opportunities for families to build stability, resilience, and brighter futures. Connect with ElizabethLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/elizabethwilbergBlog: https://substack.com/@elizabethwilberg Listen & Subscribe Apple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon MusicYouTubeiHeart RadioCaptivate Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health, your parenting partner in your pocket. Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox. Sign up here: https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/

    How Elizabeth Wilberg Is Helping Families Build Strong Foundations Through Compassion, Early Support, and Community Care

  7. Jun 23

    How Dr. Andrea Gropman Is Transforming Rare Disease Research Through Patient Advocacy, Precision Medicine, and Neurologic Discovery

    Episode Summary Rare diseases often leave families searching for answers in a system that doesn’t always recognize what’s happening. On this episode of Parent Confidence Lab, Hans and Cristina sit down with Dr. Andrea Gropman, pediatric neurologist, researcher, and leader in neurometabolic medicine, to discuss how patient stories, family advocacy, and scientific innovation are changing the future of rare disease diagnosis and treatment. Drawing from more than two decades of research in urea cycle disorders and other rare metabolic conditions, Dr. Gropman explains how listening closely to families has led to groundbreaking discoveries, improved diagnostic approaches, and new therapies that are helping patients live not only longer, but better. She shares insights into genetic testing, personalized medicine, postpartum presentations of rare disorders, and why parents should trust their instincts when something feels wrong. This conversation is both an educational deep dive into rare disease medicine and a powerful reminder of the role parents play in driving medical progress. What You’ll LearnHow a single patient inspired Dr. Gropman’s career in rare disease researchWhat urea cycle disorders are and how they affect the brainWhy many rare disease symptoms are missed or misdiagnosedHow patient advocacy groups have accelerated treatment developmentThe role of MRI imaging in understanding rare neurologic disordersWhy some women previously considered “carriers” actually experience symptomsHow genetic testing and whole genome sequencing are transforming diagnosisWhy parent observations are often critical diagnostic dataThe challenges families face accessing rare disease treatments and testingHow personalized medicine and gene-editing therapies are changing the future of careWhy parents should continue advocating when they know something isn’t rightHow family stories often reveal what medical tests cannot About Dr. Andrea GropmanDr. Andrea Gropman is a pediatric neurologist, physician-scientist, and internationally recognized expert in neurometabolic and rare genetic disorders. She serves as Director of the Neurometabolic Translational Research Program and holds the Mark Tamer Endowed Chair for Pediatric Neurology at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Her research focuses on understanding how rare metabolic diseases affect the brain and developing innovative approaches to improve diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life for patients and families. For more than 20 years, Dr. Gropman has worked alongside patient advocacy organizations, researchers, and clinicians to advance therapies for rare diseases, including urea cycle disorders. Her work has helped redefine disease understanding, improve patient outcomes, and support the development of emerging precision medicine approaches. Connect with Dr. Andrea GropmanLinkedIn: Dr. Andrea Gropman Listen & Subscribe Apple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon MusicYouTubeiHeart RadioCaptivate Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health, your parenting partner in your pocket. Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox. Sign up here: https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/

    How Dr. Andrea Gropman Is Transforming Rare Disease Research Through Patient Advocacy, Precision Medicine, and Neurologic Discovery

  8. Jun 16

    How David Washington Is Using Nature, Connection, and Mental Health Education to Help Families Thrive

    Episode Summary Parenting can be overwhelming, especially when stress, anxiety, grief, and emotional challenges affect the entire family system. David Washington joins Hans and Cristina on the Parent Confidence Lab podcast to discuss how nature, connection, and nervous system regulation can support healthier relationships between parents and children. As a licensed clinical social worker and CEO and co-founder of The Planted Brain, David combines traditional mental health practices with horticultural therapy and trauma-informed care to help individuals and families heal. From the science behind nature's impact on the nervous system to the importance of parental regulation, attachment, and fatherhood mental health, David shares practical strategies parents can use to create stronger connections with themselves, their children, and their communities. The conversation also explores postpartum depression in both mothers and fathers, the role of neuroplasticity in changing behaviors, and how simple shared experiences can strengthen family bonds. What You'll LearnHow nature and horticulture can support emotional regulation and mental healthWhy nervous system safety is essential for healing and connectionThe role of polyvagal theory in understanding stress, anxiety, and traumaHow parents' emotional states influence their children's behaviorWhat mirror neurons teach us about connection and co-regulationWhy parental self-regulation is one of the greatest gifts you can give your childHow neuroplasticity helps parents create healthier behavioral patternsThe importance of attachment and connection in early childhood developmentWhy fathers can experience postpartum depression and emotional challengesPractical ways parents can connect with children through shared experiences and everyday activitiesHow nature-based activities can strengthen family relationships and emotional well-beingWhy prioritizing self-care helps parents better support their children About David WashingtonDavid Washington is a licensed clinical social worker, therapist, and the CEO and co-founder of The Planted Brain, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit mental health organization dedicated to increasing access to culturally responsive mental health services for historically marginalized and under-resourced communities. Through a unique combination of trauma-informed care, psychotherapy, horticultural therapy, and nature-based healing practices, David helps individuals and families build resilience, strengthen relationships, and improve emotional well-being. Connect with DavidHeadway: https://care.headway.co/providers/david-washingtonThe Planted Brain: theplantedbrain.org Listen & Subscribe Apple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon MusicYouTubeiHeart RadioCaptivate Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health, your parenting partner in your pocket. Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox. Sign up here: https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/

    How David Washington Is Using Nature, Connection, and Mental Health Education to Help Families Thrive

  9. Jun 15

    How Sara Sweat Is Helping Working Parents Set Boundaries Without Guilt and Protect Their Energy

    Episode SummaryBalancing work, parenting, and personal well-being can leave many parents feeling exhausted and stretched too thin. Sara Sweat joins Hans and Cristina on the Parent Confidence Lab podcast to discuss why healthy boundaries are essential for working parents and how they can be used to protect time, energy, and family connection. Drawing from her experience as a trauma-informed coach and founder of Monarch, Sara explains the difference between boundaries, expectations, standards, and rules while offering practical tools parents can use immediately. From managing emotional energy and handling tantrums to creating non-negotiable calendar priorities and communicating boundaries effectively, Sara shares actionable strategies that help parents avoid burnout while showing up as their best selves at home and at work. What You'll LearnWhat healthy boundaries actually are and why they are often misunderstoodThe difference between boundaries, expectations, standards, and rulesHow to protect your time, energy, and emotional well-being as a working parentWhy energy management matters more than time managementHow small daily habits can create meaningful emotional and mental depositsThe power of moving from "furious" to "curious" during parenting challengesWhy calendars should include personal and family priorities, not just work commitmentsHow short, repeatable phrases can help reinforce boundaries during stressful momentsThe role of rituals and visual cues in creating consistent family boundariesWhy self-care and boundary-setting allow parents to care for others more sustainably About Sara SweatSara Sweat is a trauma-informed coach, founder of Monarch, and advisor to Avocado Health. With a background spanning healthcare technology, leadership, and counseling, she helps individuals and organizations apply human psychology principles to improve resilience, performance, and well-being. Her work focuses on helping high achievers create sustainable success through healthy boundaries, emotional awareness, and intentional growth. Connect with SaraLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sara-sweatWebsite: monarchsup.com Listen & Subscribe Apple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon MusicYouTubeiHeart RadioCaptivate Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health, your parenting partner in your pocket. Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox. Sign up here: https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/

    How Sara Sweat Is Helping Working Parents Set Boundaries Without Guilt and Protect Their Energy

  10. May 27

    How Angie Weber Is Helping Parents Stay Calm, Connected, and Confident Through Life’s Toughest Moments

    Episode Summary Parenting can feel overwhelming, especially during stressful mornings, sibling fights, emotional meltdowns, and the constant pressure to “get it right.” Angie Weber joins Hans and Cristina on the Parent Confidence Lab podcast to share her CALM Approach to Parenting, a practical framework designed to help parents regulate emotions, communicate more effectively, and build stronger family connections. From emotional regulation and family meetings to co-parenting and divorce support, Angie offers honest, actionable advice for parents navigating the chaos of everyday family life. What You’ll Learn The four pillars of Angie’s CALM parenting frameworkWhy emotional regulation starts with the parent firstHow giving children choices reduces power strugglesThe difference between consequences and ultimatumsWhy family meetings can improve communication and reduce stressHow parents can recognize emotional triggers before reactingWhy giving yourself grace is essential in parentingHow co-parenting tools can strengthen family relationships after divorce About Angie Weber Angie Weber is a parent coach, speaker, CEO of The Parent Toolbox, and director of the Divorce Support Collective. Through her coaching programs, parenting tools, and educational resources, Angie helps parents build calmer homes, stronger emotional connections, and healthier communication habits with their children and partners. Connect with Angie LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/angieweberThe Parent Toolbox: theparenttoolbox.infoDivorce Support Collective Listen & Subscribe Apple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon MusicYouTubeiHeart RadioCaptivate Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health, your parenting partner in your pocket. Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox. Sign up here: https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/

    How Angie Weber Is Helping Parents Stay Calm, Connected, and Confident Through Life’s Toughest Moments

  11. May 14

    What Every New Parent Should Know with Pediatrician Alex Butler

    Episode SummaryMost parents leave pediatric appointments with unanswered questions, and most healthcare tech ignores that. Dr. Alex Butler, pediatric hospitalist at Boston Children’s Hospital and founder of Alcott, joins Hans and Cristina to talk about why families are left out of healthcare innovation and what we can do about it. If you’ve ever walked out of a doctor’s visit wishing you’d said more, this one’s for you. What You’ll LearnWhy parents are the most underutilized resource in pediatric careHow to make the most of a 15-minute doctor’s appointmentWhat AI tools like Alcott are doing to empower familiesHow to trust your gut, even when a doctor pushes backWhy social media sets unrealistic parenting expectations About Alex ButlerDr. Alex Butler is a pediatric hospitalist at Boston Children’s Hospital and founder of Alcott, a free tool that helps parents prepare for and get more out of every healthcare visit. Connect with AlexLinkedIn: Alex ButlerAlcott: alcottai.com Listen & SubscribeApple PodcastsSpotifyAmazon MusicYouTubeiHeart RadioCaptivate Parent Confidence Lab by Avocado Health, your parenting partner in your pocket. Enjoying the show? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly parenting insights, episode updates, and expert tips straight to your inbox. Sign up here: https://avo-little-more-confidence.beehiiv.com/

    What Every New Parent Should Know with Pediatrician Alex Butler
  • 11 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

The Parent Confidence Lab is a podcast hosted by Hans Kullberg and Cristina Bernardo of Avocado Health. We feature leaders across healthcare, public health, and advocacy who are improving outcomes for parents, children, and families. Through real conversations, we explore what’s working, what’s not, and how we can better support parents at scale.

Information

  • Creator
    Hans Kullberg & Cristina Bernardo
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    11
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Hans Kullberg & Cristina Bernardo
  • Show Website
    Parent Confidence Lab