Robot Unicorn

Jess welcomes clinical psychologist and friendship expert Dr. Miriam Kirmayer to explore friendship shame, loneliness, and the myth that meaningful friendships should happen effortlessly. Whether you're a busy parent or hoping to find your people in a new season of life, this conversation offers practical guidance and a reassuring reminder: it's never too late.

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In this solo Q&A, Jess wraps up the puberty mini-series with practical scripts for explaining erections, discussing periods and menstrual products, responding to teasing, navigating childhood crushes, and handling unsafe images. Listen for adaptable conversation starters that help make growing up something you can talk about together.

Check out these episodes for more on supporting your tweens through puberty: 

Talking To Kids About Puberty, Periods, and Sex (Part 1)

Talking To Kids About Puberty, Porn, And Social Media (Part 2)

The Tween Years: Peers, Embarrassment, And Belonging

U...

Voice cracks, growth spurts, wet dreams—boys deserve more than a quick, awkward puberty talk. In this episode, Jess shares practical ways to prepare your son for body changes, build hygiene habits, and keep conversations about erections, consent, and relationships open and shame-free. Listen for a compassionate reminder that you don't need perfect words to remain someone your son can turn to.

Exciting news! Our brand-new puberty course is available now. Become the askable parent your child wants to talk to, respond with confidence to tricky questions, understand the physical and emotional changes your ch...

“How does a baby get made?” If that question leaves you searching for words, Jess offers a calm, practical starting point in this episode. She walks through a reproduction script, explains why factual answers don't have to undermine childhood innocence, and shows how to build on conversations about anatomy, sperm, and eggs. Rather than aiming for one perfect sex talk, discover how smaller conversations can build trust and open the door to future questions about puberty, consent, and growing up.

Exciting news! Our brand-new puberty course is available now. Become the askable parent your chil...

Jess joins psychosexual therapist Dr. Sara for an honest conversation about sex, intimacy, and why connection after children involves far more than desire alone. Discover low-pressure ways to reconnect and hear why Dr. Sara's emergent love model emphasizes intentional connection over constant fireworks. Whether you're caring for a newborn or parenting older children, this episode offers a compassionate alternative to the pressure to return to your pre-baby relationship.

Want to hear more from Dr. Sara Nasserzadeh?

www.Sara-Nasserzadeh.com

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This week, we are revisiting a previously aired episode.

When your child refuses to go to school, what's really behind the struggle—and how can you help without dismissing their feelings or removing every challenge? Jess and Scott explore the overlapping roots of school refusal, from separation anxiety and post-pandemic disruptions to bullying, friendship difficulties, learning needs, and parental anxiety. They also discuss how sleep, screen-time boundaries, and overscheduled evenings can make school mornings harder. 

You’ll get tools to understand, support, and nurture your child through these challenging times...

This week, we are revisiting a previously aired episode. 

Why is your child perfect at school, only to completely fall apart the moment they get home? This episode dives deep into the common but misunderstood phenomenon of 'After-School Restraint Collapse.' Jess and Scott will help you understand that these explosions are a sign that your child feels safest with you, and give you practical strategies—from co-regulation to creating a 'soft landing'—to help your child decompress and turn these challenging moments into opportunities for connection.

This episode was o...

In this episode, Jess sits down with Emmy award-winning author, artist, and director Loryn Brantz to discuss her brand new children's book, "I Am a Spicy Nugget." They dive deep into the magic of playful parenting, sharing practical and hilarious ways to use humour and imagination to defuse toddler tantrums. Tune in to learn why we all become "spicy nuggets" sometimes, how to combat "garbage thoughts," and why shifting your parenting mindset can completely transform your home's dynamic.

To hear more from Loryn and check out her books, including her brand new children’s bo...

In this episode, Jess dives deep into the often misunderstood world of inattentive ADHD, focusing closely on why these individuals are so frequently labelled as 'daydreamers.' We explore the hidden hyperactivity that happens entirely within the mind, which can lead to dissociation, anxiety, and overwhelm. Tune in to discover how to harness the power of the wandering mind and better support the daydreamers in your life.

Want to learn more tools for supporting your child with ADHD? Check out our course, Parenting Your Child with ADHD, here. 

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Drawing on her experience as a school therapist, Jess shares essential 'friendship truths’ that parents can teach their kids quickly and easily to help them have a great year at school. 

Want to learn more about supporting your kids and tweens through friendship struggles? 

For kids ages 3-8, check out our Friendship Toolkit here. 

For kids 8+, check out our Puberty Toolkit here. 

Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.

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Jess tackles the age-old parenting struggle: What do you do when your child shuts down during tricky conversations? Listeners will walk away with five practical tools for tough conversations with their kids and tweens. Tune in to transform awkward chats into confidence-building moments!

Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First 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: [email protected]. 

Credits:

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Join Jess as she sits down with board-certified psychiatrist and ADHD expert Dr. Sasha Hamdani to unpack the realities of Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) and emotional dysregulation. Dr. Hamdani sheds light on why so many women are diagnosed with ADHD later in life and how to navigate the complex diagnostic process. Whether you are parenting a sensitive child or learning to embrace your own emotional depth, this episode offers vital insights and practical strategies. Tune in to reframe what it means to be 'too sensitive' and discover how to harness it as your greatest strength!

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Discover the crucial differences between healthy risk and hazardous environments, and learn why allowing your kids to take calculated risks can actually decrease their long-term anxiety. Jess shares practical tips for coaching children through tricky physical situations rather than hovering. Tune in to find out why a scraped knee might just be a sign of a thriving, adventurous child!

Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.

We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Ro...

Jess dives into the very real and exhausting challenge of staying calm during your child's tantrums. We explore the unspoken truth about parental burnout, especially for parents whose nervous systems are triggered by yelling due to their own childhood trauma. Tune in to gain actionable strategies that will help you regulate your own emotions, reconnect with your toddler, and realize that you are absolutely not alone in the chaos of parenting!

Want to hear more? Check out these episodes Jess mentions during this discussion: 

Self-Care For Burnt-Out Parents with Dr. Pooja Lakshmin

Jess dives deep to help you understand the true causes behind toddler and preschooler tantrums. She explains the brain science behind tantrums, and breaks down the four main reasons they happen. Listeners will gain an invaluable age-by-age guide to normal developmental behaviours. You'll learn how setting consistent boundaries, addressing sensory needs, and managing your own emotional regulation can drastically shift the tone of your home.

Want to hear more about being the calm, confident leader your child needs? Listen to How To Be The Leader Your Child Needs here. 

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In this episode of Robot Unicorn, Jess tackles the often overwhelming topic of potty training. She explores why traditional methods, like the popular three-day approach, often fail and cause unnecessary stress for both parents and kids, and offers a mindset shift from potty training to potty learning. Jess helps you recognize the true signs of readiness and also breaks down how to tailor your approach based on your child's unique temperament—whether they are adaptable, sensitive, or strong-willed. 

Are you ready to shift from potty training to potty learning? Click here to check out our...

This week, we are revisiting a previously aired episode.

Jess and Scott dive deep into the science of impulse control in children, explaining why little ones struggle to control their impulses and how parents can effectively support this critical developmental process. They explore brain development across different age groups—from toddlers who are "completely run by impulses" to teens experiencing a rush of emotions while their logical brain struggles to catch up. 

Listeners will gain practical, science-backed approaches to help navigate impulsive behaviours, understand the "why" behind children's actions, and...

In this short but packed episode, Jess dives into practical strategies to encourage independent play in children. She explains how foundational parent-child connection, combined with techniques like 'invitations to play' and creating a 'yes space', can naturally invite deep curiosity. Whether you are working from home this summer or just trying to reduce toy-related decision fatigue, tune in to discover how simple open-ended toys and a little bit of modelling can completely transform your family's daily routine!

For more on how to be a playful parent, check out these episodes: 

How To U...

Jess tackles one of the most common parenting questions: 'Why won't my child listen?'  She breaks down the four main reasons kids struggle to follow directions and provides practical strategies and actionable advice on connecting before directing and holding firm boundaries. Tune in to discover how to reframe your child's behaviour and create a more cooperative, peaceful dynamic in your home.

Want to hear more about being the trusted leader your child needs?

Listen to How To Be The Leader Your Child Needs here. 

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You ask how their day was and all you get is a shrug and "fine." The more questions you pile on, the more they shut down. In this episode, Jess shares the reflective-listening skills she uses to help anyone open up, along with the specific questions, rituals, and quiet moments of connection that actually get kids talking. You'll walk away knowing why interrogation backfires and exactly what to do instead.

YOU'LL LEARN

Jess sits down with psychiatrist and self-care expert Dr. Pooja Lakshmin. They explore how self-care isn't about bubble baths or spa days, but rather about setting boundaries, exercising compassion, and stepping out of the chronic fight-or-flight mode of parenting. Listeners will gain practical insights to help them with burnout. 

Want to hear more from Dr. Pooja?

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Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.

We’d l...

In this episode of Robot Unicorn, Jess dives deep into the often misunderstood topic of supporting shy children. Listeners will learn the three main reasons children exhibit shyness and walk away with practical, compassionate strategies, such as the "step-back" method and role-playing, to help their slow-to-warm child navigate social situations. Whether you are raising a sensitive child or were a shy kid yourself, this episode offers the empowering insights and warm validation you need!

Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.

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In this episode, Jess explains the three most common reasons why kids struggle with behaviour at school. She shares common reasons kids act out at school, even when things are going well at home, and gives practical solutions to help parents and educators support children! 

Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First 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: [email protected]. 

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Today, Jess dives deep into a highly requested topic: Understanding and supporting the ADHD brain. Drawing from her clinical experience with neurodivergent children, she breaks down six crucial insights. If you want to understand the 'why' behind your child's behaviour and learn how to foster an environment where they can truly thrive, you won't want to miss this solo episode!

Check out these episodes for more on supporting cognitive flexibility: 

Brain Stuckness: Why Kids Struggle With Flexibility (Part 1)

Brain Stuckness: Reducing Power Struggles & Building Flexibility (Part 2)

In this episode, we break down the most common reasons children struggle with sleep and share gentle, effective ways to help them rest better. You’ll learn what’s normal, what may be disrupting your child’s sleep, and how to create healthier sleep habits without harsh sleep-training methods or leaving your child to cry alone.

If you’re tired, overwhelmed, and searching for realistic sleep support that actually feels good as a parent, this conversation is for you.

Want to learn more about supporting your child with sleep? 

Podcast E...

In this solo episode of Robot Unicorn, Jess tackles a common parenting struggle: How to find a middle ground between being passive and resorting to yelling. Tune in to gain practical insights that will empower you to break negative cycles and lead your children with respect and calm authority.

Learn more about our Parenting Little Kids course here.

Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.

We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us...

Jess sits down with guest Libby Ward to discuss her highly anticipated new book, Honest Motherhood. Themes covered include: Raising a sensitive baby, learning how to be a parent after a traumatic childhood, postpartum anxiety, and more. Tune in for an incredibly raw, validating conversation that will help you drop the heavy facade of the 'perfect mom' and learn how to find yourself.

Want to hear more from Libby?

Connect on Instagram

Connect on TikTok

Connect on Facebook

Order her new book: Honest Motherhood: On Losing...

CW: Abuse, child sexual abuse, grooming

In this final episode of our 3-part series on child sexual abuse, Jess and Scott dive into practical steps parents can take to protect their kids. Listeners will walk away with valuable tools, including easy conversational games to play with children and tips for recognizing behavioural red flags.

Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.

We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Ro...

CW: Abuse, child sexual abuse, grooming

In Part 2 of this critical series on child sexual abuse, hosts Jess and Scott delve into the dark realities of child abuse and the manipulative process of grooming. Jess and Scott debunk dangerous myths while providing parents with practical red flags to look out for. Tune in to empower yourself with the vital knowledge needed to protect your children and identify unsafe environments before they escalate.

If you want to learn more about how to proactively teach your child about body safety and...

CW: Abuse, child sexual abuse, grooming

In this heavy but crucial episode of Robot Unicorn, hosts Jess and Scott tackle the difficult reality of childhood sexual abuse and the grooming process. We break down why abusers are overwhelmingly people the child already knows and trusts, completely dismantling the outdated 'stranger danger' myth. Listeners will gain vital insights into how abusers manipulate power dynamics and learn actionable ways to use body safety education as a powerful shield. Join us for an empowering conversation designed to help you recognize red flags and proactively protect the children...

In this insightful episode of Robot Unicorn, Jess sits down with clinical psychologist Dr. Rachel Goldman, author of 'When Life Happens.' They explore the empowering concept of body neutrality and discuss why the cultural pressure of toxic body positivity might actually be holding us back. Dr. Rachel unpacks the complexities surrounding GLP-1 medications, the rising impact of social media on orthorexia, and practical CBT tools for reframing our most anxious thoughts. Listeners will walk away with actionable strategies for embracing their bodies' functions, challenging negative self-talk, and modelling a healthy body image for their children. Tune in to...

This week, Jess and Scott talk about how to reduce power struggles and brain stuckness. You'll gain crucial insights into why toddlers can't self-regulate, how 'radical honesty' diffuses tension, and why over-explaining rules can actually invite more defiance. Tune in to learn how to speak your child's language through play and become a more confident, trusted leader in your home.

Check out these Robot Unicorn episodes for more on the impact of screens, social media and gaming on our kids: 

In this episode of Robot Unicorn, Jess and Scott are joined by a very special guest—their 5-year-old daughter—who shares a story about her brain getting stuck on making a paper kite. The hosts dive into the fascinating concept of "brain stuckness," explaining why young children often fixate on a single idea and struggle with flexible thinking. Listeners will gain crucial insights into the "five-to-seven shift" in brain development, helping parents distinguish between intentional defiance and simple neurological stuckness. Discover why traditional logic often fails with kids and how understanding impulse control can help you parent with more empa...

In Part 2 of our deep dive into allowances, Jess and Scott move from theory to practice, debating whether kids should receive an allowance at all. They explore the 'Spend, Save, Give' jar system and share personal strategies for teaching delayed gratification, including the controversial '24-hour rule' for impulse buys. They also discuss the importance of letting children make low-stakes financial mistakes now so they don't make big ones later. Finally, they address the privilege inherent in allowance and how to build financial literacy even if your budget is tight. Tune in to find out why Scott changed his...

Is giving your kids an allowance a 'ridiculous idea' or a powerful teaching tool? In this episode, Jess and Scott dive into the heated debate on allowances. Scott reveals a major 180-degree shift in his thinking, moving from a firm 'no' to seeing allowance as a crucial way to teach financial literacy. They discuss how to give kids money without raising them to be entitled, the complicated link between allowances and chores, and how their own upbringings have shaped their views. Tune in for Part 1 of a conversation that could change how your family talks about money.

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This week, we are revisiting a previously aired episode.

In this episode, we dive into one of the most vital, yet often overlooked, aspects of development and well-being: creativity. We explore the 'Creativity Crisis'—a documented decline in creative thinking since the 1990s—and discuss how parents can protect their children's innate imagination. We unpack the profound importance of unstructured play, not just for kids to process their world, but for adults to combat burnout. Listen for actionable strategies to foster creativity at home and find ways to rediscover your own sense of play.

This week, we are revisiting a previously aired episode.

Is sending your child to daycare wrong? Will it ruin your attachment? In this episode, Jess and Scott tackle the highly controversial 'Daycare Wars,' sharing a personal story of being shamed for their choices. They dive into the intense guilt and judgment surrounding the stay-at-home versus working parent debate. Listen for a nuanced conversation that moves beyond black-and-white thinking to explore the economic and mental health realities many families face, and learn practical ways to preserve a strong, loving attachment with your child, no...

This week, we are revisiting a previously aired episode.

When is it okay to punish your kids? This loaded question kicks off a deep dive into the difference between punishment and effective, long-term discipline. Jess and Scott challenge common parenting tactics like spanking, timeouts, and taking things away, explaining why these methods often fail and can even damage the parent-child relationship. Listeners will learn why a child's behaviour is a signal, not a fault, and discover powerful, connection-based alternatives. Move beyond the 'punishment cycle' and learn how to use modelling and logical consequences to...

In this episode, Jess and Scott tackle this delicate balance, exploring why so many parents fear their children's tears and avoid setting boundaries. They move beyond unhelpful labels to discuss the core of effective parenting: becoming the strong, confident leader your child needs. Listen to find the confidence to hold firm, embrace nuance, and learn why letting your child experience disappointment is one of the greatest gifts you can give them.

Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.

We’d love to...

In this episode, Jess and Scott dive deep into one of parenting's most common dilemmas. They explore how household tasks are crucial for building responsibility, essential life skills, and a sense of family teamwork. The conversation tackles the controversial topic of allowances, revealing why research suggests you should not pay your kids for daily chores. Tune in to learn how to foster intrinsic motivation and implement a chore system that works for your family without the constant nagging.

Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.