Robot Unicorn

Nurtured First
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Robot Unicorn

Join me, Jess VanderWier, a registered psychotherapist, mom of three, and founder of Nurtured First, along with my husband Scott, as we dive deep into the stories of our friends, favourite celebrities, and influential figures. In each episode, we skip the small talk and dive into vulnerable and honest conversations about topics like cycle breaking, trauma, race, mental health, parenting, sex, religion, postpartum, healing, and loss. We are glad you are here. PS: The name Robot Unicorn comes from our daughter. When we asked her what we should name the podcast, she confidently came up with this name because she loves robots, and she loves unicorns, so why not? There was something about the playfulness of the name, the confidence in her voice, and the fact that it represents that you can love two things at once that just felt right.

  1. 3 DAYS AGO

    Is It Ok To Tease Your Kids?

    In this laughter-filled episode, Scott and Jess dive into the delicate balance of teasing and playfulness with kids. They discuss how to be playful without going too far, share hilarious stories about their family's creative characters like "Sean" the hand puppet, and provide practical tips for connecting with children through humour. Some important topics discussed in the episode include: * Recognizing how a child's understanding of humour develops with age * Respecting boundaries around teasing * Using playfulness as a tool to connect with kids and diffuse tense situations Listeners will gain valuable strategies for bringing more fun and laughter into their parenting while avoiding potentially hurtful teasing. Do you want to be a more playful parent but aren't sure where to start? The Playful Parent Toolkit is full of easy games and playful tools to do with your kids. Learn more about The Playful Parent Toolkit here. [https://nurturedfirst.com/printables/the-playful-parent-toolkit/] Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First [https://nurturedfirst.com/courses/] using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We'd love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Learn more about The Body Safety Toolkit here! [https://nurturedfirst.com/printables/the-body-safety-toolkit/] Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin [https://thepodcabin.com/] Artwork by Wallflower Studio [https://www.wallflowerstudio.co/] Production by Nurtured First [https://nurturedfirst.com/]

    39 min

  2. 4 NOV

    Do Parents Really Love All Their Kids The Same?

    In this episode, Jess and Scott dive into the challenges of parenting multiple children and giving each child the love and attention they need. Inspired by a viral social media post, they explore topics like balancing attention between babies and older kids, feelings of guilt and defensiveness as parents, and how children crave connection at all ages. They provide helpful tips for recognizing children's bids for quality time, healing past parenting missteps, and finding small moments to connect amidst the chaos of family life. This heartfelt discussion offers both validation and practical tips for parents in the thick of raising multiple kids. Check out the Instagram post Jess reads here.  [https://www.instagram.com/p/DAUd6GDgGRB/?img_index=3] Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First [https://nurturedfirst.com/courses/] using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We'd love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Learn more about The Body Safety Toolkit here! [https://nurturedfirst.com/printables/the-body-safety-toolkit/] Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin [https://thepodcabin.com/] Artwork by Wallflower Studio [https://www.wallflowerstudio.co/] Production by Nurtured First [https://nurturedfirst.com/]

    23 min

  3. 28 OCT

    How Can I Protect My Kids From Sexual Abuse?

    CW: Sexual abuse, grooming, sex-related topics After hearing news about a case of sexual abuse in their community, Jess and Scott are sitting down and answering listener questions about how to talk to kids about body safety and consent in a way that won't scare kids and will protect them. They provide practical advice for parents on how to have age-appropriate conversations about consent, private parts, and safe/unsafe touches without instilling fear. Some of the specific topics they address include: * At what age you should start having these conversations * The power of using anatomically correct terms with children * How and why you should create a "safe team" of trusted adults for your children * Jess' opinion on sleepovers and unsupervised playtime This episode equips parents with essential tools to empower and safeguard their children while preserving their innocence. Learn more about supporting kids with body safety, big feelings, and so much more from our Nurtured First blog [https://nurturedfirst.com/blog/]. If you want more resources to teach your child about body safety and consent, check out The Body Safety Toolkit! [https://nurturedfirst.com/printables/the-body-safety-toolkit/] Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First [https://nurturedfirst.com/courses/] using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We'd love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin [https://thepodcabin.com/] Artwork by Wallflower Studio [https://www.wallflowerstudio.co/] Production by Nurtured First [https://nurturedfirst.com/]

    44 min

  4. 21 OCT

    The #1 Reason Men Are Silently Struggling With Mental Health with Samir Mourani

    In this powerful episode, Scott and Jess are joined by Samir Mourani to have an open and vulnerable conversation about men's mental health. They discuss their personal experiences with anxiety, depression, and emotional breakdowns, sharing how they've worked to overcome societal pressures that discourage men from expressing emotions. A few important topics covered in the episode include: * The importance of having close male friendships where you can be vulnerable * How bottling up emotions often leads to them coming out as anger later * Ways to model healthy masculinity and emotional expression for children * The healing power of therapy, medication, and having a supportive partner * Finding hope even in the darkest moments of mental health struggles This raw and honest discussion aims to reduce the stigma around men's mental health and encourage listeners to seek help if they're struggling. This conversation is an uplifting reminder that no one is alone in these challenges. Hear more from Samir on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/samirmourani/]. Listen to Samir's Ted Talk "Redefining My Masculinity" here.  [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0tQSvX6lLZk] Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First [https://nurturedfirst.com/courses/] using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We'd love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Learn more about The Body Safety Toolkit here! [https://nurturedfirst.com/printables/the-body-safety-toolkit/] Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin [https://thepodcabin.com/] Artwork by Wallflower Studio [https://www.wallflowerstudio.co/] Production by Nurtured First [https://nurturedfirst.com/]

    1h 2m

  5. 14 OCT

    Q&A: Jess And Scott Get Real About Anxiety, Disagreements, And Personal Struggles

    In this fun and casual Q&A episode, Jess and Scott answer listener questions and give you a peek behind the curtain of their lives and relationship. Discover Scott's favourite quality about Jess, hear about their most rewarding parenting moments and learn how they handle disagreements. They share vulnerable insights about managing social anxiety as public figures and discuss mindset shifts that help them appreciate the challenges of parenting. With plenty of laughs and a few deep moments, this episode offers a chance to get to know Jess and Scott on a more personal level. You'll come away with practical parenting tips and a renewed appreciation for savouring the small moments with your kids. Listen to Jess on Samir's podcast "Gent's Talk" here. [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/your-past-experience-will-shape-your-parenting-approach/id1660149891?i=1000651810269]  Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First [https://nurturedfirst.com/courses/]  using the code ROBOTUNICORN. Learn more about The Body Safety Toolkit here! [https://nurturedfirst.com/printables/the-body-safety-toolkit/] We'd love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin [https://thepodcabin.com/] Artwork by Wallflower Studio [https://www.wallflowerstudio.co/] Production by Nurtured First [https://nurturedfirst.com/]

    38 min

  6. 7 OCT

    How Much Do Friendships Matter For Our Kids?

    Jess and Scott discuss the delicate balance between nurturing children's friendships and maintaining strong parent-child bonds. They discuss the concept of peer orientation, share personal experiences, and offer practical advice for parents navigating their children's social worlds. Key insights include: 1. The importance of modelling healthy relationships at home 2. How to recognize signs of unhealthy peer orientation 3. Strategies for prioritizing family time while supporting friendships Whether you're concerned about your child's social life or simply want to foster positive relationships, this episode provides valuable guidance for parents with kids of all ages. Don't miss this thoughtful discussion on one of parenting's most crucial topics! Want to help your child feel confident navigating friendship struggles and build safe and trusted friendships? Check out our new Nurtured First toolkit: The Friendship Toolkit [https://nurturedfirst.com/printables/the-friendship-toolkit/]. Don't forget to use code ROBOTUNICORN at checkout for 10% off! Get 10% OFF all parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First [https://nurturedfirst.com/courses/] using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We'd love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Learn more about The Body Safety Toolkit here! [https://nurturedfirst.com/printables/the-body-safety-toolkit/] Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin [https://thepodcabin.com/]] Artwork by Wallflower Studio [https://www.wallflowerstudio.co/] Production by Nurtured First [https://nurturedfirst.com/]

    33 min

  7. 30 SEPT

    Is It Ok To Say 'No' To Your Kids?

    In this solo episode, Jess shares her reflections on a recent conversation she had. The conversation was about whether or not children should hear the word "no" and how parents who follow "this new wave of gentle parenting" are no longer the leaders in their homes. In the episode, Jess shares her thoughts on this view and tackles a common misconception about gentle parenting - that it's too permissive and doesn't allow for setting boundaries. She explains the crucial differences between permissive, authoritarian, and authoritative parenting styles, emphasizing that effective discipline combines warmth with firm boundaries. Jess shares her expert knowledge and advice on: * Why it's important and loving to say "no" to children * How to be a calm leader for kids during challenging moments * How setting boundaries helps kids learn to navigate disappointment * How setting boundaries teaches kids to question authority appropriately With relatable examples and research-backed information, this episode provides valuable guidance for parents seeking to strike the right balance between empathy and structure. Jess mentions an episode with her friend Josh, and you can listen to that episode here. [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/as-a-skeptic-husband-i-couldnt-see-the-value-in/id1740816838?i=1000669677881] If you want to learn more about the different parenting styles Jess talks about in the episode, check out this blog post [https://nurturedfirst.com/which-parenting-style-is-the-best/].  You'll also find the research Jess refers to referenced at the end of the blog. Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First [https://nurturedfirst.com/courses/] using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We'd love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Learn more about The Body Safety Toolkit here! [https://nurturedfirst.com/printables/the-body-safety-toolkit/] Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin [https://thepodcabin.com/] Artwork by Wallflower Studio [https://www.wallflowerstudio.co/] Production by Nurtured First [https://nurturedfirst.com/]

    26 min

  8. 23 SEPT

    What Do I Do When My Child Hits?

    In this solo episode, Jess answers a listener's question. She explores how to become curious about and respond to children's challenging behaviours like hitting. She breaks down four key reasons why children may hit and provides practical strategies for addressing each root cause. In the episode, Jess covers: * How to get curious about why your child is hitting (or engaging in other challenging behaviours) * Proactive ways to meet children's needs before hitting occurs * How to respond to the big feelings that come after you've set a boundary around hitting * Recognizing that there's no one-size-fits-all approach to hitting Packed with real-life examples and actionable tips, this episode gives parents powerful tools to move beyond basic consequences and truly support their child's growth and development. It is a must-listen for any parent struggling with hitting or other challenging behaviours. In the episode, Jess mentions her Parenting Little Kids course. You can learn more about the course here [https://nurturedfirst.com/courses/parenting-little-kids/], and use the code ROBOTUNICORN for 10% off any Nurtured First [https://nurturedfirst.com/] parenting course or printable toolkit! [https://nurturedfirst.com/courses/] We'd love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Learn more about The Body Safety Toolkit here! [https://nurturedfirst.com/printables/the-body-safety-toolkit/] Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin [https://thepodcabin.com/] Artwork by Wallflower Studio [https://www.wallflowerstudio.co/] Production by Nurtured First [https://nurturedfirst.com/]

    30 min
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About

Join me, Jess VanderWier, a registered psychotherapist, mom of three, and founder of Nurtured First, along with my husband Scott, as we dive deep into the stories of our friends, favourite celebrities, and influential figures. In each episode, we skip the small talk and dive into vulnerable and honest conversations about topics like cycle breaking, trauma, race, mental health, parenting, sex, religion, postpartum, healing, and loss. We are glad you are here. PS: The name Robot Unicorn comes from our daughter. When we asked her what we should name the podcast, she confidently came up with this name because she loves robots, and she loves unicorns, so why not? There was something about the playfulness of the name, the confidence in her voice, and the fact that it represents that you can love two things at once that just felt right.

Information

  • Creator
    Nurtured First
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    31
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Robot Unicorn
  • Show Website
    Robot Unicorn

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