UNrattled: A Podcast for Parents

It's easy to read a headline about a young person in trouble and wonder, What's wrong with kids today? But what happens when we ask a different question: Who was this child before the headline?

In this episode of UNrattled, Jessica and Venay are joined by Joshua Jones, Director of the HALO Program at USA Health, for a deeply personal conversation about childhood, community, and the adults who can change the trajectory of a young person's life.

Jessica, Venay, and Josh begin by looking back at the "little" versions of themselves—the experiences that shaped th...

What does it take to keep choosing one another through trauma, grief, medical uncertainty, and the demands of raising a family? In this candid conversation, Ronnie and Venus Thomas reflect on childhood experiences that shaped their parenting, the health scares and pregnancy losses that tested their marriage, and the years they spent simply trying to survive. They share how therapy, honest apologies, emotional safety, and intentional time together helped them reconnect—not as perfect parents or partners, but as two people committed to growing together.

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Season 4 is here, and we're kicking things off with a conversation about where we've been, what we've learned, and where we're headed next!

In this special season premiere, Venay and Jessica sit down to reflect on some of the most impactful moments from previous seasons of Unrattled, the conversations that stayed with them long after recording ended, and the lessons they've carried into their own lives as parents, educators, and advocates for children.

They also pull back the curtain on Season 4, sharing some of the topics they're most excited to explore, why these conversations matter...

"I'm bored." It's one of the most frustrating phrases parents hear—but what if boredom is actually a good thing?

In this episode, we unpack why boredom plays a critical role in building creativity, independence, and problem-solving skills in young children. We explore what independent play really looks like across different ages and why it's often harder for kids (and parents) than we expect.

We also dig into sibling dynamics—how having a built-in playmate can either support independent play or completely derail it. From constant conflict to over-reliance on one another, we'll talk about what...

Parent-teacher conferences can feel intimidating for many families—but they don't have to. In this special Cross Talk episode with our sister show Tiny Talks on Early Learning, we talk with Dr. Tricia Shelton and Paula Reese about how parents and educators can work together to better support children. Drawing from Dr. Shelton's new book, Partnering for Success: Strategies for Effective Parent-Teacher Conferences, the conversation offers practical tips for parents to feel more confident, heard, and empowered during school conversations—especially when navigating developmental differences or additional support needs.

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This episode explores how attachment styles show up in parenting and why certain child behaviors can feel especially triggering. We'll briefly define attachment styles, then focus on how a parent's own upbringing and experiences shape their reactions to things like defiance, clinginess, and big emotions. We'll unpack why these responses can feel automatic, touch on the brain science behind stress in parenting, and shift into practical insight—helping parents recognize their patterns, respond instead of react, and use connection and co-regulation to support their child. The goal is to normalize these experiences and offer simple, realistic ways to build st...

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In this final episode of Voices of Alabama Families, we look ahead—exploring the hopes, values, and changes families across Alabama want for the next generation. Through heartfelt reflections, contributors share a vision of a future where children feel safe, seen, and free to be who they are, while also emphasizing the importance of protecting what matters most—connection, community, and care.

At the same time, this episode does not shy away from what needs to change, from the role of education to the ways communities show up for...

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Some of the most important things children need to understand are also the hardest to explain. In this episode, Voices of Alabama Families explores how families across Alabama navigate conversations about difficult history—stories of segregation, integration, and racial injustice that are not just part of the past, but lived experiences that continue to shape how people see the world and raise their children today.

Through powerful personal reflections, listeners hear how these histories are carried across generations, influencing identity, protection, and the ways families approach hard conversations. Th...

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Raising children has never been something families were meant to do alone, and in communities across Alabama, it hasn't been. In this episode, Voices of Alabama Families explores what it truly means to "raise a child in a village"—through the neighbors, educators, family members, and community leaders who step in, fill gaps, and show up in ways both seen and unseen. Through powerful, real-life stories, listeners hear how care and responsibility are shared across households and generations, how support often extends far beyond the classroom into advocacy and everyday li...

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Long before children can explain what they believe, they are already learning what matters—through the patterns, relationships, and traditions that surround them every day. In this episode, Voices of Alabama Families explores how faith, family, and cultural values shape early learning across communities in Alabama. Through powerful personal stories, listeners hear how lessons are passed down not just through words, but through lived experiences—at the dinner table, in places of worship, through family traditions, and within the broader community. From the role of faith in creating belonging, to the...

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Long before children ever step into a classroom, they are already learning—through stories shared in everyday moments. Around kitchen tables, on front porches, and in passing conversations, children begin to understand who they are and where they belong. In this episode, Voices of Alabama Families explores storytelling not as something imagined, but as something lived—an essential part of how families pass down history, identity, and culture.

Through personal reflections, this episode reveals how stories—spoken and unspoken—shape the way children see themselves and the world. From the...

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What we inherit shapes how we raise our children.

In this opening episode of Voices of Alabama Families, we explore how history lives on through families, communities, and everyday experiences—and how those stories become a child's first lessons in identity, belonging, and resilience.

From the legacy of Africatown to childhood memories on Davis Avenue, from Birmingham to Montgomery, voices from across Alabama share how place, culture, and community shaped who they are—and how those influences continue to guide the children in their lives today.

Public libraries are more than shelves of books—they are community anchors. In this episode of UNrattled, we sit down with the team from Foley Public Library, to talk about the powerful role libraries play in supporting families, early learners, and lifelong curiosity. This conversation shines a light on the programs, partnerships, and everyday moments that make community libraries safe, welcoming spaces for connection, learning, and growth. You'll leave with a deeper appreciation and understanding for your local library—and practical ideas for using it as a resource for your whole family.

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Supporting children on the autism spectrum takes collaboration between families, educators, healthcare providers, and communities.

In this special crossover episode of Tiny Talks on Early Learning and UNrattled: A Podcast for Parents, we sit down with Michelle McDaniel, Director of the USA Regional Autism Network, to explore what autism support looks like across the places children live, learn, and grow.

Michelle shares insights on early signs of autism, why early identification matters, and practical strategies that help children thrive in both early learning environments and everyday family routines. We also discuss how families and educators...

In this episode of UNrattled, we explore how parents can help children set meaningful goals, develop perseverance, and build the resilience to stick with hard things—without pushing too hard or tying worth to achievement. Drawing on research about grit, executive function, motivation, and social-emotional development, we break down what goal-setting looks like at different ages and how parents can support healthy follow-through.

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Transitions—ending playtime, getting out the door, moving from one activity to the next—can feel like small moments to adults but huge emotional events for young children. In this episode, we unpack why transitions so often trigger meltdowns, especially for children under five. Through simple brain science, real-life examples, and practical strategies, we explore what's really happening beneath the tears and resistance—and how parents and early educators can support children through change with empathy, predictability, and connection. If you've ever wondered, "Why is this so hard?"—this conversation is for you.

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Parents today aren't just busy—we're exhausted. The days move fast, the mental load is constant, and even when everything gets done, it can still feel like you're behind.

In this honest and candid conversation, we unpack why time feels so scarce for families—not because parents are failing, but because the load is genuinely heavy. From invisible labor and decision fatigue to overcommitment and the myth of "balance," we explore what's really happening beneath the rush.

This episode isn't about perfect planners or productivity hacks. It's about recognizing the season you're in, identifying the anch...

Episode Description: Parenting comes with worries — but when anxiety sticks around, overthinking every decision and anticipating worst-case scenarios can take a real toll on you and your family. In this episode of UNrattled: A Podcast for Parents, we talk candidly about what it's like to parent when you have anxiety. We'll explore how anxiety shows up in everyday moments, how it can subtly influence parenting behaviors, and practical ways to cope so you can build confidence — not stress — into your family's daily life. You'll hear research-based tips on managing your own anxiety without passing it down to your kids, how to...

In Digging In: Cultivating Curiosity Through Gardening and Biodiversity, we explore how everyday experiences in nature—from planting a garden to discovering bugs in the soil—play a powerful role in children's learning and development. Designed for both parents and early childhood professionals, this episode highlights how hands-on outdoor experiences build curiosity, confidence, healthy habits, and environmental awareness, while offering practical, approachable ways adults can support safe exploration and meaningful connections to the natural world.

Key Takeaways for Listeners:

Gardening nurtures responsibility, patience, and healthy habits while sparking sensory-rich learning experiences.

Exposure to dive...

The holidays are supposed to be magical… but for many parents, they also come with pressure, comparison, guilt, and unrealistic expectations. In this honest and laugh-filled conversation, we unpack the stressors that make this season feel so heavy—gift-giving guilt, family obligations, overstimulated kids, and the myth of the "perfect holiday parent."

We explore why the holidays often trigger disappointment and burnout, how to set boundaries with grace, and why your kids don't need a picture-perfect season to feel loved. You'll hear real stories, practical strategies, and gentle reminders that your worth is not measured by matching paja...

When our kids are melting down, it can feel impossible to stay calm — but that's exactly when they need our calm the most. In this episode of Unrattled, we sit down with licensed therapist Lauren Poiroux-Harvey from The Sommer House in Mobile to explore the life-changing power of co-regulation — the process of calming our children by calming ourselves.

Lauren breaks down what co-regulation really means, why it's essential for healthy brain development, and how parents can begin practicing it (even when they feel completely tapped out). We get real about the hard moments — tantrums in public, multiple kids m...

Parenting doesn't come with a manual—or a guarantee that we'll always feel ready for what comes next. In this episode of UNrattled: A Podcast for Parents, we're talking about what it really means to "do it scared." Together, we'll unpack the courage it takes to act even when fear and self-doubt creep in—whether it's going back to school, starting therapy, changing jobs, or simply showing up differently at home.

Through personal stories and honest conversation, we explore how parents can stop waiting for perfect timing, learn to trust their own worth, and model bravery for thei...

What started as a well-intentioned shift toward empathy and connection has, for many families, turned into confusion, guilt, and unrealistic expectations. In this episode, clinical psychologist and author Dr. Emily Edlynn joins us to unpack the "gentle parenting" trend—and why it may be doing more harm than good. Drawing from her book Autonomy-Supportive Parenting, Dr. Edlynn explains how we can move beyond buzzwords and social media soundbites to embrace a research-backed approach that balances warmth, boundaries, and child independence. If you've ever felt unsure about how to stay kind and in charge as a parent, this episode is fo...

For many families, thinking about financial planning can feel like a luxury—especially when every dollar is already accounted for and daily survival takes center stage. In this episode, we take a realistic look at how small, intentional steps can lead to greater peace of mind, especially in tough economic times.

We're not talking spreadsheets or lectures—we're talking about mindset, habits, and legacy. Whether you're living paycheck to paycheck or trying to shift generational patterns, this episode will meet you where you are and offer supportive tools for planning your family's future… one step at a time.<...

In this foundational episode of UNrattled: A Podcast for Parents, we begin the conversation around neurodivergence—what it means, how it may present in young children, and when parents might start noticing signs. With expert insight from Dr. Abigail Baxter, a longtime GRECS partner and advocate for inclusive early education, we'll unpack the terminology, explore the diversity of neurodevelopmental differences, and help families understand what's typical, what's not, and when to seek support. This episode is designed for parents at the beginning of their journey, offering clarity, reassurance, and resources without overwhelming jargon or judgment. Whether you're wondering about yo...

Inclusion in early learning isn't just a practice—it's a mindset that shapes how every child is welcomed, supported, and celebrated. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Abigail Baxter and parent advocate, Anna Knight, to explore what true inclusion looks like in child care and early education settings. Together, they share practical strategies, candid experiences, and heartfelt reflections on how educators and families can work side by side to create classrooms where children with special needs thrive alongside their peers. Whether you're a teacher, administrator, or parent, this conversation will inspire you to see inclusion as both po...

Episode Description:

Parenting isn't about keeping the peace at all costs—it's about teaching, guiding, and sometimes saying "no" even when it's hard. In this episode, Lauren Poiroux Harvey joins us for a powerful conversation on setting boundaries with love, clarity, and confidence. We unpack why conflict with your child isn't something to fear or avoid—and how avoiding it may actually do more harm than good.

Get real-world insights on what it means to stay grounded when your child is pushing back, why "calm" doesn't mean "permissive," and how to build trust by holding cons...

Choosing child care is one of the most important—and often overwhelming—decisions families face. In this episode of UNrattled: A Podcast for Parents, we're joined by Victoria Bolton, a trusted GRECS colleague and coach for Alabama's Infant Toddler Network, to help make the process easier. We break down what quality care really looks like, what questions to ask, and how to find a child care program that fits your family's needs, values, and routine. Whether you're returning to work, expecting a new baby, or just starting your search, this conversation will give you confidence and clarity.

You know outdoor play is good for your kids. Fresh air, room to move, fewer meltdowns, more joy—it just works. But let's be real: getting your child outside every day isn't always easy. And the same goes for their early learning program.

In this episode of UNrattled, we dig into what's really getting in the way of outdoor play—at home and in child care settings. From unpredictable weather and safety worries to busy routines and differing expectations, we explore the common obstacles that stand between children and the outdoor time they need.

You'll hear...

We're back! In this casual kickoff to Season 3, Jessica, Venay, and our returning regular guest Joshua Jones catch up on summer adventures, share some honest "rattled moments," and talk about what it really feels like to settle into a new school year. Joshua reintroduces himself to listeners, opens up about life as a girl dad, and gives us a glimpse into what he's bringing to the podcast this season. It's light, real, and full of the kind of laughs and connection we all need as we dive into another year of parenting.

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Is screen time hurting or helping your child's development? It depends on how you use it. In this episode of UNrattled: A Podcast for Parents, we sit down with early childhood leaders from Alabama Public Television (APT) to explore how trusted media like PBS Kids programming can actually support healthy brain development, boost literacy, and encourage social-emotional growth.

Director of Early Childhood Education Tiffany Armstrong and her colleagues Pauline Lewis and Lisa Nunn break down how parents, caregivers, and educators can access free parenting resources that align with the latest research in child development. You'll learn how...

In this special episode of UNrattled, recorded live from the Gulf Coast Early Childhood Summer Symposium, we sit down with Dr. Craig Bailey—Director of Early Childhood at Yale's Center for Emotional Intelligence—to unpack one of the most powerful yet often overlooked tools in parenting and education: emotional intelligence.

Dr. Bailey introduces us to RULER, Yale's groundbreaking approach to social-emotional learning (SEL), which stands for Recognizing, Understanding, Labeling, Expressing, and Regulating emotions. Through storytelling, science, and humor, he helps us understand why SEL begins with the adults in children's lives and how we can't teach what we h...

Are today's kids missing out on one of the most important parts of childhood? In this powerful episode of UNrattled we are joined by Ryan Grady—educator, researcher, and founder of Childology—to explore why risky play is essential for raising confident, capable, and resilient children.

From scaling trees and chasing friends in the yard to balancing on logs and building forts, risky play allows children to test boundaries, solve problems, and build their executive functioning skills—all while having fun. But too often, adult fears about safety or liability shut these experiences down. This episode invites you to...

Transitions are part of everyday life—but for toddlers, even the smallest changes can feel overwhelming. Whether it's time to leave the park, start bedtime, or shift from one activity to the next, those moments often lead to big emotions and bigger meltdowns. In this special episode of UNrattled: A Podcast for Parents, we're digging into the heart of why transitions are so hard for young children—and what you can do to make them easier for everyone.

Host Jessica Stinson is joined by early childhood experts Victoria Bolton and Lennox Steele, who break down the science of t...

In this powerful and practical episode of UNrattled, we're diving deep into the urgent conversation every parent, caregiver, and educator needs to be having—how screen time and social media are impacting children's mental health.

Joined by Amanda Lightsey of the Children's Trust Fund of Alabama and Jeff Davis from Fowler Davis 4 Change, we explore their groundbreaking statewide initiative, Safe Screen, Sound Minds. This free, evidence-based program offers mental health resources for parents, youth mental health workshops, and digital wellness tools designed to create safer, smarter screen habits for kids.

Together, we unpack the real ef...

If you're parenting a child with ADHD—or suspect your child might have it—this episode is packed with expert guidance to help you navigate the challenges and celebrate the strengths of neurodivergent kids.

Our guest, Maggie Kellar, PMHNP, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in ADHD across the lifespan, returns to break down the emotional, social, and self-esteem struggles that kids with ADHD often face. We explore why children with ADHD experience big emotions, frequent meltdowns, and heightened frustration, and how parents can support emotional regulation and executive functioning at home.

Friendships can be t...

Parenting is already a tough job, but when your child has ADHD, it can feel like you're navigating an entirely different world. Maybe your child struggles to focus, bounces from one task to another, or experiences emotions that seem bigger than life. Perhaps a teacher has raised concerns, or you're constantly questioning whether their behavior is typical or if something more is happening.

In this two-part special of Unrattled, we're tackling childhood ADHD from all angles, starting with the fundamentals of what ADHD is, how it presents in kids, and what parents need to know about early...

Navigating parenthood often comes with a hefty price tag. From diapers to daycare and unexpected expenses, it can feel like you're constantly treading water financially. Many parents find themselves overwhelmed trying to balance the costs of raising children with other financial responsibilities. The pressure to provide while staying afloat can lead to stress and uncertainty about the future.

In this special episode of UNrattled, we sit down with Stephen Searcy and Amy Lassiter from First Horizon Bank to discuss practical financial first steps for parents. Whether you're expecting your first child or managing a growing family, this...

Parenting is one of the most rewarding journeys, but it can also feel overwhelming and isolating. How do we build the support systems we need? Where can we find trusted parenting resources? And how do we connect with other families who truly understand what we're going through?

In this episode of UNrattled, we sit down with Lynn Knighton, publisher of Eastern Shore Parents Magazine and Mobile Bay Parents Magazine, to talk about the power of parenting communities and why local resources are crucial for families. Lynn shares her personal story of launching these magazines, the...

The holidays are over, and as much as we love the extra family time, relaxed schedules, and late mornings, reality sets back in—it's time to re-establish routines. But transitioning back to structure can be challenging, both for parents and kids.

In this episode of UNrattled: A Podcast for Parents, hosts Austin Lee, Jessica Stinson, and Vinnie dive into the struggles of resetting routines, managing back-to-school anxiety, and adjusting parental expectations to avoid burnout. From bedtime battles and morning meltdowns to the guilt of not having everything "together," this candid conversation is filled with humor, relatable stories, an...