Reflective Parenting Podcast – Détails, épisodes et analyse

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This episode will change how you see conflict.

We’re talking about the proven communication patterns that destroy connection and how to replace them with healthier ones.

You’ll learn:

• the Four Horsemen (with real examples)
• how the demand–withdraw cycle keeps couples stuck
• the shocking research: negative conflict literally slows wound healing
• how your nervous system shapes your reactions (before your thoughts do)
• 3 simple questions from Jefferson Fisher that can change the next conversation

This is not about fixing the last fight.

This is about changing the next one.

If you shut down, explode, or get stuck repeating the same arguments this episode is for you.

Read our full blog post about this topic (it has all the research I mentioned in this episode):

https://curiousneuron.com/2025/11/09/the-science-of-healthy-conflict-patterns-in-couples/

Get the book The Next Conversation here

Don't miss this podcast episode to help you out with conflict:

https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/reflective-parenting-by-curious-neuron/id1440533170?i=1000735018841

Support the show

Start your journey to becoming emotionally aware:

Step 1: Join our Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/reflectiveparentingpodcast

or visit our website to know which books I will be covering during the next months:

https://curiousneuron.com/podcast/

Step 2: Get your FREE emotional awareness training for parents and kids below (comes with a poster, workbook and video):

https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4iEbFRZ5QQ&t=12s

Step 3: Join our course for $99, The Emotionally Aware Parent or join the next 8 week group cohort (starting in September 2026)

https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/

Or email me info@curiousneuron.com to book emotional training sessions for your organization. 

Send us Fan Mail

If you’ve ever wondered why you become a different version of yourself during conflict… this episode is going to change the way you see those moments forever.

I’m sitting down with psychologists and authors Rachel Samson and Dr. Jessie Stern to unpack the science beneath conflict: your attachment history, your temperament, your nervous system sensitivity, and how all of this shapes the way you argue, withdraw, pursue, or shut down.

This episode is not about “how to argue better.”
It’s about understanding why you show up the way you do in the first place.

You’ll learn why some of us chase repair desperately…
why others shut down to survive the moment…
and why conflict can feel like it happens faster than your ability to think.

We also talk about emotional flooding and the moment when your nervous system takes over the conversation before your communication skills even get a chance.

And if you are a parent, you will hear how this shows up not only with your partner but also with your child and what you can do starting today to interrupt the cycle.

You will walk away from this episode with clarity, hope, and self compassion because conflict is not just about skills.
It is about state.

Get their new book on Amazon here.

Follow Rachel on Instagram

Follow Dr. Jessie on Instagram

Read our new blog post: The Science Behind How you Show up in Arguments here

Support the show

Start your journey to becoming emotionally aware:

Step 1: Join our Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/reflectiveparentingpodcast

or visit our website to know which books I will be covering during the next months:

https://curiousneuron.com/podcast/

Step 2: Get your FREE emotional awareness training for parents and kids below (comes with a poster, workbook and video):

https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4iEbFRZ5QQ&t=12s

Step 3: Join our course for $99, The Emotionally Aware Parent or join the next 8 week group cohort (starting in September 2026)

https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/

Or email me info@curiousneuron.com to book emotional training sessions for your organization. 

Send us Fan Mail

I am going to be taking a short break. 

Meanwhile, enjoy this replay of one of my favourite episodes with Dr. Mona Delahooke. If you have a young child that has tantrums or that acts out in ways you don't know how to support, this episode will help you understand how to support your child in these challenging moments. 

Learn more from Dr. Delahooke below:

https://monadelahooke.com/

Support the show

Start your journey to becoming emotionally aware:

Step 1: Join our Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/reflectiveparentingpodcast

or visit our website to know which books I will be covering during the next months:

https://curiousneuron.com/podcast/

Step 2: Get your FREE emotional awareness training for parents and kids below (comes with a poster, workbook and video):

https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4iEbFRZ5QQ&t=12s

Step 3: Join our course for $99, The Emotionally Aware Parent or join the next 8 week group cohort (starting in September 2026)

https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/

Or email me info@curiousneuron.com to book emotional training sessions for your organization. 

Send us Fan Mail

Ever wondered why your toddler's tantrums seem uncontrollable or why your teenager is always sulking? Is it a sign of underlying distress, or a normal part of growing up? These questions and more are answered in this episode where we welcome developmental psychologist, Dr. Amanda Sheffield Morris. She helps us unlock the mysteries of emotional regulation in children, emphasizing the crucial role it plays in their overall health and well-being. We also delve into the intricacies of the parent-child relationship, discussing how it changes as your child progresses through different stages of life. And to top it all off, Dr. Morris shares some practical nuggets from her new book, "Raising a Resilient Child."

But it's not just about the kids. Parents, we're in this too! Our inner world affects our outer reactions, especially when it comes to managing our child's emotions. How we regulate our own emotions can significantly impact our children's emotional development. We're not perfect – and we're not expected to be – but understanding our emotional triggers can help us respond more effectively to our children's needs. In this episode, we also navigate the tumultuous waters of emotions like anger, sadness, worry, and anxiety. We provide tips on how parents can set routines and rituals that support emotional regulation and offer insights into the importance of patience and understanding, especially during the early stages of your child's life.

Towards the end of our discussion, we dive deeper into the world of emotional well-being in parenting. Dr. Morris introduces the concept of "shark music" – the scripts and patterns we have in our minds when it comes to parenting – and how this affects our interactions with our children.

Amanda's Book is out now! Raising a Resilient Child in a World of Adversity: Effective Parenting for Every Family
Amazon US
Amazon Canada

Publications:
Parents’ adverse childhood experiences and current relationships with their young children

Parent and Peer Emotion Responsivity Styles: An Extension of Gottman’s Emotion Socialization Parenting Typologies

Support the show

Start your journey to becoming emotionally aware:

Step 1: Join our Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/reflectiveparentingpodcast

or visit our website to know which books I will be covering during the next months:

https://curiousneuron.com/podcast/

Step 2: Get your FREE emotional awareness training for parents and kids below (comes with a poster, workbook and video):

https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4iEbFRZ5QQ&t=12s

Step 3: Join our course for $99, The Emotionally Aware Parent or join the next 8 week group cohort (starting in September 2026)

https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/

Or email me info@curiousneuron.com to book emotional training sessions for your organization. 

Send us Fan Mail

From my personal encounters with teaching empathy to my six and eight-year-old to sparking young minds' curiosity for neuroscience, this episode has a lot to offer. I'll share how a Nintendo dispute became a perfect opportunity to teach my kids the power of perspective taking in arguments and the crucial role of empathy in conflict resolution. It's a lesson that goes beyond parenthood – it's fundamentally about understanding and communicating with each other. 

The importance of parental mental health is often underappreciated, and that's what we'll be delving into in the later half of our episode. As a community, we ought to acknowledge the emotional and mental toll parenting can take and work together to provide the support needed. I encourage you to help us understand better what parents need to maintain their mental and emotional wellbeing by providing your input. Let's wrap up the week with a meaningful discussion about empathy, perspective, and mental health. Here's to a positive end to the week and a wonderful week ahead!

Please take 3-5 min to fill in this form on parental well-being. I am going to use it to apply for a research grant to study the impact of Curious Neuron!
https://forms.gle/ZwPUiDTjoPxjXd5d6

Support the show

Start your journey to becoming emotionally aware:

Step 1: Join our Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/reflectiveparentingpodcast

or visit our website to know which books I will be covering during the next months:

https://curiousneuron.com/podcast/

Step 2: Get your FREE emotional awareness training for parents and kids below (comes with a poster, workbook and video):

https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4iEbFRZ5QQ&t=12s

Step 3: Join our course for $99, The Emotionally Aware Parent or join the next 8 week group cohort (starting in September 2026)

https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/

Or email me info@curiousneuron.com to book emotional training sessions for your organization. 

Send us Fan Mail

Many parents with neurodivergent children have told me that parenting advice they read early helps them support their child. With the help of renowned neuropsychologist Dr. Julie Scorah, explore the unique challenges often faced by neurodivergent children. 

We'll talk about the need to plan ahead to prevent stress, the significance of responding over reacting, and the importance of teaching your child coping skills in their calm moments. We'll also touch upon proactive strategies like relaxation techniques and utilizing sensory breaks and social stories. With Dr. Scorah's expertise and our collective experiences, we aim to navigate you through these troubled waters with patience and understanding.

In this final section, we'll explore the impact of neurodiversity on children's social skills and behavior. We'll underline the importance of teaching neurodivergent children alternative means of communication, which can lead to a marked improvement in their behavior over time. Moreover, we'll discuss the societal pressure on children to be social and share some strategies to support their social development in a manageable and beneficial way.  So, join us on this enlightening journey and let's learn together.

Support the show

Start your journey to becoming emotionally aware:

Step 1: Join our Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/reflectiveparentingpodcast

or visit our website to know which books I will be covering during the next months:

https://curiousneuron.com/podcast/

Step 2: Get your FREE emotional awareness training for parents and kids below (comes with a poster, workbook and video):

https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4iEbFRZ5QQ&t=12s

Step 3: Join our course for $99, The Emotionally Aware Parent or join the next 8 week group cohort (starting in September 2026)

https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/

Or email me info@curiousneuron.com to book emotional training sessions for your organization. 

Send us Fan Mail

Today, we unravel the profound effects of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and the potential consequences of parental burnout and stress. It's time to break intergenerational cycles for the well-being of future generations. I'll be sharing the latest eye-opening research and statistics.

Neglect, abuse, divorce, parental incarceration, these adversities can lead to chronic illness and mental health issues later in life. It's crucial to scrutinize the negative impacts of spanking and shaming while cultivating a positive home environment. Remember, our children's well-being starts with us.

Lastly, we'll dive into the essence of reflection and how it contributes to nurturing parental well-being.

30-days of reflection prompts for parents:
https://curiousneuronacademy.mykajabi.com/pl/2148017427

Parental well-being survey (3-5 min to answer):
https://forms.gle/yeek2YdJxjmAW62K8

FREE e-book about kids emotions:
https://wondergrade.myflodesk.com/tih3dfrtwr

Sources: 

https://vetoviolence.cdc.gov/apps/aces-infographic/

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/2516103220967937

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8205446/

Support the show

Start your journey to becoming emotionally aware:

Step 1: Join our Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/reflectiveparentingpodcast

or visit our website to know which books I will be covering during the next months:

https://curiousneuron.com/podcast/

Step 2: Get your FREE emotional awareness training for parents and kids below (comes with a poster, workbook and video):

https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4iEbFRZ5QQ&t=12s

Step 3: Join our course for $99, The Emotionally Aware Parent or join the next 8 week group cohort (starting in September 2026)

https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/

Or email me info@curiousneuron.com to book emotional training sessions for your organization. 

Send us Fan Mail

Ever felt like you're drowning in the deep end of parenthood, with the overwhelming demands of child-rearing overshadowing your own needs? I've got you! This week, I chatted with Dr. Morgan Cutlip. She sheds light on the delicate balance of meeting the needs of your family while honoring your own. We take a frank and honest look at the emotional milieu of motherhood, unpacking expectations, and the importance of self-care, all while discussing Dr. Cutlip's riveting new book "Love Your Kids Without Losing Yourself."

We offer insights on overcoming defensiveness, different worldviews, and role expectations to help navigate the mental load of parenting with your partner. Join us!

About our guest:
Dr. Morgan Cutlip, PhD in Psychology and highly sought-after relationship expert, knows what it feels like to lose yourself in motherhood, and she’s determined to help mothers navigate it better.

Her book:  Love Your Kids Without Losing Yourself
Canada Amazon
US Amazon

Dr. Cutlip's Instagram Page @drmorgancutlip

Her website:
https://drmorgancutlip.com/

Support the show

Start your journey to becoming emotionally aware:

Step 1: Join our Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/reflectiveparentingpodcast

or visit our website to know which books I will be covering during the next months:

https://curiousneuron.com/podcast/

Step 2: Get your FREE emotional awareness training for parents and kids below (comes with a poster, workbook and video):

https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4iEbFRZ5QQ&t=12s

Step 3: Join our course for $99, The Emotionally Aware Parent or join the next 8 week group cohort (starting in September 2026)

https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/

Or email me info@curiousneuron.com to book emotional training sessions for your organization. 

Send us Fan Mail

Wondering why your two-year-old is not keen on sharing toys with their playmates? I have a reel that is about to hit 4 MILLION views...and it's about sharing. Many people don't agree with my post so today's episode is all about understanding child development and sharing - a concept that genuinely blossoms around the age of four.  Let's unravel the misconceptions and shed light on the research behind this fascinating aspect of child growth.

Developing pro-social behavior in children is an art. And the canvas - relationships! Yes, kids are more likely to share with people they're familiar with. But how can we, as parents and educators, encourage these skills? Let's get practical as we discuss everything from how to inspire your child to pass on their balloon to their best bud, to sharing a yummy cookie with grandma. We explore the importance of patience, understanding, and excellent guidance in nurturing these essential life skills.

Play, the universal language of children, is our secret weapon. We dive into how play can teach children about sharing, mine vs. yours, patience, and even conflict resolution. The episode wraps up with some love for our wonderful listeners, emphasizing how much we appreciate your ratings and reviews. We hope to continue delivering insightful episodes and wish you a beautiful week ahead! Don't miss out on this enlightening journey into the world of child development and sharing.

Get free weekly activity packs that teach your kids about emotions HERE

Sources:

 https://www.instagram.com/reel/CxdAEjzOVua/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Mine or Yours? Development of Sharing in Toddlers in Relation to Ownership Understanding HERE

The development of recipient-dependent sharing behavior and sharing expectations in preschool children HERE

Support the show

Start your journey to becoming emotionally aware:

Step 1: Join our Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/reflectiveparentingpodcast

or visit our website to know which books I will be covering during the next months:

https://curiousneuron.com/podcast/

Step 2: Get your FREE emotional awareness training for parents and kids below (comes with a poster, workbook and video):

https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4iEbFRZ5QQ&t=12s

Step 3: Join our course for $99, The Emotionally Aware Parent or join the next 8 week group cohort (starting in September 2026)

https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/

Or email me info@curiousneuron.com to book emotional training sessions for your organization. 

Send us Fan Mail

Growing up, I was no stranger to criticism. Now, as an adult, I can't help but notice its lingering effects on my self-esteem, my internal narrative, and my motivation. For better or worse, that criticism has shaped me. In this episode, we explore how a critical environment can influence marriages and parenting. We unpack the early warning signs that criticism could signal in marriages, and draw parallels with our relationships with our children.

Moving into the second half, we shift our focus to communication with our children. The weight of criticism is heavy on their growing shoulders. It can knock their self-esteem down, and shape their inner voice, sometimes in damaging ways. It's a balance we have to strike - maintaining firmness without sacrificing warmth and sensitivity. Listen in as we delve into the power and potential of language. We discuss how our words can inspire our children, rather than criticize them, and how we can foster their growth, instead of stifling it. This episode is not just about the impact of criticism; it's a conversation about resilience, nurturing positive relationships, and the immeasurable power we hold as parents.

FREE weekly activities teaching kids about emotions:
https://www.wondergrade.com/printables

Curious Neuron Podcast Episode about negotiation:
https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/curious-neuron/id1440533170?i=1000618304723

Sources:
Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ by Daniel Goleman HERE

Parental behavioural control in adolescence: How does it affect self-esteem and self-criticism? HERE

How to Make Repair Attempts So Your Partner Feels Loved HERE

Parents’ Use of Praise and Criticism in a Sample of Young Children Seeking Mental Health Services HERE

Family Emotional Processes and Adolescents' Adjustment HERE

Support the show

Start your journey to becoming emotionally aware:

Step 1: Join our Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/reflectiveparentingpodcast

or visit our website to know which books I will be covering during the next months:

https://curiousneuron.com/podcast/

Step 2: Get your FREE emotional awareness training for parents and kids below (comes with a poster, workbook and video):

https://tremendous-hustler-7333.kit.com/84371dc0b2

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4iEbFRZ5QQ&t=12s

Step 3: Join our course for $99, The Emotionally Aware Parent or join the next 8 week group cohort (starting in September 2026)

https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/

Or email me info@curiousneuron.com to book emotional training sessions for your organization.