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Between Parents

This podcast is a dialog about challenges and opportunities parents face as they raise kids, enjoy marriage, and live a purpose-filled life. These honest conversations give parents fodder so they can talk to each other, be encouraged, and recognize they aren't raising kids alone.
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Now displaying: 2017
Dec 26, 2017

Are you stressed about where your kids will go to school?
Do you often find yourself in conversations (debates?) about public or private schools? Do you ever feel guilty that you do or don’t homeschool?

On today’s podcast Billy and Joy suggest a framework for evaluating your options. You MAY hate what they say, but you might also find it helpful. In any case, have a listen!

Talk about this:

Rate your emotions around the schooling topic. Do you or your spouse feel the need to dial it back?

How do you think you can stay open-handed around the process?

As you consider your options, run the options through the Product/Process/Fit grid. 

Also remember…

Between Parents is now on SPOTIFY!!! Yup… So if you’re recommending this podcast to someone who may not be using more typical podcast platforms, send them over to Spotify!! Of course you can still find us on Apple podcasts, SoundCloud, Tune-In (use this platform from Alexa – so cool!), Overcast, and Stitcher. If for some reason you can’t find us on a different platform, please let us know and we’ll chase it down!

Between Parents is on “The Socials” too!

Of course we are on Facebook. If you like the page you’ll receive more consistent updates and be able to share episodes with others. Connect with us @BetweenParentsPodcast

You can chat back with us on Twitter @between_parents or on Instagram @betweenparents

FINALLY – leave us a review on Apple Podcasts (formerly know as iTunes). This is a SUPER helpful way for increasing our reach and helping others find us. #sharingiscaring ; )

Thanks for listening!

 

Dec 19, 2017

Have you ever noticed how quickly kids disconnect their desire for freedom with their ability to be responsible? In today’s podcast Billy and Joy offer some tips for making sure there’s a link between what a child wants and their ability to assume responsibility.

“Freedom makes a huge requirement of every human being. With freedom comes responsibility. For the person who is unwilling to grow up, the person who does not want to carry his own weight, this is a frightening prospect.” ― Eleanor Roosevelt

Talk about this:

  1. What do you tend to do... grant freedoms too easily (potentially without maturity to handle them) or withhold freedoms too long (causing frustration and arrested development)?
  2. What signs of maturity need to be in place to justify our kids ASKS these days?
  3. Are these conversations/negotiations happening in a healthy way? If not, how might they?

Also remember…

Between Parents is now on SPOTIFY!!! Yup… So if you’re recommending this podcast to someone who may not be using more typical podcast platforms, send them over to Spotify!! Of course you can still find us on Apple podcasts, SoundCloud, Tune-In (use this platform from Alexa – so cool!), Overcast, and Stitcher. If for some reason you can’t find us on a different platform, please let us know and we’ll chase it down!

Between Parents is on “The Socials” too!

Of course we are on Facebook. If you like the page you’ll receive more consistent updates and be able to share episodes with others. Connect with us @BetweenParentsPodcast

You can chat back with us on Twitter @between_parents or on Instagram @betweenparents

FINALLY – leave us a review on Apple Podcasts (formerly know as iTunes). This is a SUPER helpful way for increasing our reach and helping others find us. #sharingiscaring ; )

Thanks for listening!

 

Dec 12, 2017

How do you teach your kids to delay gratification? How do you articulate why waiting for something is better than having it immediately? What’s your plan for equipping your children for dealing with a lifetime of temptation?

In this episode Billy and Joy review approaches to these questions and encourage you to keep taming the appetites that can control old and young alike! 

Talk about this:

What is my kids’ unique “temptation profile” these days? What tempts them most?

What is their ability to say NO these days? Am I dialed in on if I am asking too much or too little of my child based on his/her age and development?

How open do I think my kids are to talking to me about what tempts them? What can I do to normalize this conversation?

What can I do in this season to help them build up the muscle to fight temptation?

Related Links:

Marshmallow test author interview here.

A look at how US kids compare to kids in Cameron here

Also remember… 

Between Parents is now on SPOTIFY!!! Yup… So if you’re recommending this podcast to someone who may not be using more typical podcast platforms, send them over to Spotify!! Of course you can still find us on Apple podcasts, SoundCloud, Tune-In (use this platform from Alexa – so cool!), Overcast, and Stitcher. If for some reason you can’t find us on a different platform, please let us know and we’ll chase it down!

Between Parents is on “The Socials” too!

Of course we are on Facebook. If you like the page you’ll receive more consistent updates and be able to share episodes with others. Connect with us @BetweenParentsPodcast

You can chat back with us on Twitter @between_parents or on Instagram @betweenparents

Dec 5, 2017

When our kids are little, it’s easy to understand how attitudes and dispositions are “just a phase.” But somewhere between 10-14 there’s a shift and we recognize that a “phase” may actually be a more permanent feature. In today’s episode Billy and Joy discuss settling up with our kid’s flaws and adjusting our approach to the kids we have, not to the kids we dreamed about!

Talk about this:

Are there any areas where we need to acknowledge that our kids "phase" is something closer to part of their hard wiring?

What can you do to prepare to parent your "imperfect" kids with the right balance of acceptance and coaching?

How often do I work under the subliminal pressure that my kid (or kids) must be perfect? Where does that come from? How can I find a healthier stance?

Also remember…

We are on Facebook! If you like the page you’ll receive more consistent updates and be able to share episodes with others. Connect with us @BetweenParentsPodcast

Have you left a review on Apple Podcasts (formerly know as iTunes)? This is SUPER helpful in helping others find our show. Along with Apple Podcasts, Overcast, and Stitcher, and TuneIn (the fun way to listen if you are using Amazon’s Alexa), Between Parents is now on SoundCloud! You can chat back with us on Twitter @between_parents or on Instagram @betweenparents

Thanks for listening and sharing this podcast with your friends!

Nov 28, 2017

Bored much? Tapped out of ideas for family fun?

Well, THIS episode will solve that problem! Check out 101 things your family can do together. Some are aspirational and will take focused attention (#72) while others are easy to accomplish any day of the week (#28, 33, or 83).

Here's the list for easy reference.

1

Have a Photo scavenger hunt - (Example here)

2

Moms - Let your daughter do your hair or makeup

3

Play hide and seek

4

Memorize the lyrics to a song that you can all sing together

5

Have a pet and let the kids name it.

6

Shoot baskets in crazy ways

7

Use every single Lego in the house to build something

8

Rearrange the furniture for movie night

9

Let the kids cook dinner (and tell them you love it!)

10

Make friends with the neighbors and bake them treats!

11

Plan secret missions and execute them together (donut drops, balloons)

12

Go fruit pickin' together (strawberries, blueberries, apples) then make dessert!

13

Have coloring book nights

14

Conduct entire conversations using nothing but GIFs for an entire day (bonus for a week)

15

Have "team day" where everyone dresses head-to-toe in the team colors

16

Let the kids show you how to get somewhere... (airport, school, grocery store)

17

Deconstruct an electronic device and figure out how it works.

18

Sleep outside

19

Cook over a fire (s'mores count, but try hotdogs too!)

20

Explore your hometown and let different family members pick the places to go.

21

Let the kids pump the gas (or wash the car windows)

22

Make sure everyone knows how to sew buttons on their shirts!

23

Keep a list/jar/book of blessings

24

Let your kids plan an entire day when you travel

25

Draw pictures on each others hands

26

Use nicknames as often as possible

27

Go to a midnight showing of a favorite movie franchise

28

Have a burping contest

29

Find a way to help some friends anonymously (rake a yard, wash their car...)

30

Illustrate a book IN the book ... make your own illustrations

31

Edit a family video together

32

Dog sit (or HORSE sit for bonus points)

33

Dance party! (duh...)

34

Create a chalk/white board for inspirational/encouraging sayings (here's ours)

35

Speak with an accent for an entire meal

36

Bring cookies to your local fire or police station

37

Let your kid run your workouts!

38

Pray at meals where the kids lead

39

Create family collections (bugs, tickets, spoons, etc.)

40

Geocache!!! (This is a GPS scavenger hunt - link here)

41

Ride a train or subway for no purpose except to ride!

42

Watch Singing in the Rain -- then SING in the rain ASAP!

43

Listen to a podcast together and talk about it.

44

Have a running joke.

45

Find a public place where you can spray paint together (legally!) - go crazy

46

Do the target challenge -- to find the MOST interesting thing for under $3 -

47

Stay for movie credits and look for a specific, random name. We look for "Carl.”

48

Make your own bread, pizza, and ice cream at least once.

49

Watch Elf once a year and quote every favorite line together every single time.

50

Plant something from seed and watch it grow. Bonus points for a mystery seed!

51

Save a baby tooth and show your older kids how it dissolves in soda.

52

Build at least one piece of furniture for your home.

53

Put lights up outside.

54

Hike a local trail.

55

Serve a meal in the form of a face.

56

Host a guest from a foreign country.

57

Start a water balloon fight on the last day of school.

58

Save the wishbone from that roasted chicken, dry it, and then make a wish!

59

Have a TV show you watch together as a family.

60

Buy a canvas and paint something - hang it in the house.

61

Serve dinner by candlelight monthly.

62

Once a year work a puzzle together.

63

Jump into a pool/lake/ocean with your clothes on!

64

Wear a costume out in public when it's NOT Halloween.

65

Tell a story a fun about the grandparents at dinner.

66

Surprise each other with balloons.

67

Put a note with a favorite treat into each other's lunch.

68

Celebrate a random holiday (Flag Day, Earth Day - for us Guy Fawkes w/ bon fire - MLK jr day with photo scavenger hunt) with customized family traditions

69

Go doorbell ditching (to friendlies!)

70

Have a whipped cream fight (preferably with another family!)

71

Sponsor a child thru compassion international (and write letters!)

72

Visit all 50 states

73

Decorate each other's doors to celebrate personal victories!

74

Each breakfast for dinner on a regular basis

75

Listen to an audio book on a long drive

76

Have a secret handshake

77

Race popsicle sticks down the gutters on a rainy (no lightening) day.

78

Create family award night during "award season" (Jan - March) - and customize your own awards for things like "best performance in an awkward situation" or "best spill..."

79

Go to a local high school event - play, sporting event, concert BEFORE your kids are old enough to actually attend said school

80

Take 10 year old trips

81

Invite the neighborhood over for a potluck (everyone brings a dish) -- set up on the driveway if necessary!

82

Read a book out loud together. Take turns reading chapters for older kids or picture books for younger kids

83

Spend an evening playing the Wikipedia game (link here)- also see EP# 10

84

Plan your own 5K and make t-shirts

85

Have "classic movie nights" with the parents showing kids their favorite flick.

86

Let the kids introduce the parents to their favorite video game.

87

Read about a different culture then visit a restaurant that serves that food.

88

Have a family pedicure night - complete with foot soaking!

89

Explore a new part of town on a rented bike

90

Do a regular family service project in your community

91

Plan a board/card game night

92

Allow the kids to plan and serve the grown ups with a menu they design - and serve - and be sure to light the candles!

93

Bake AND decorate sugar cookies WITH sprinkles

94

Have a non-device day and just see what you can do with boredom!

95

Wash the car together and end with a water fight!!!

96

Invite the neighborhood out for a competitive game of kick the can.

97

Spend a day on the beach building sand castles and then celebrate when the waves crash them in!

98

Produce a family and/or neighborhood talent show.

99

Have every person print out a favorite picture from the previous year and make a collage on canvas or wood.

100

Play "punch bug" - slugging OR tapping each other when you see a VW beetle

101

BONUS - make a habit of taking family jump shots together - tag w/betweenparents

 

Also remember…

We are on Facebook! If you like the page you’ll receive more consistent updates and be able to share episodes with others. Connect with us @BetweenParentsPodcast

Have you left a review on Apple Podcasts (formerly know as iTunes)? This is SUPER helpful in helping others find our show. Along with Apple Podcasts, Overcast, and Stitcher, and TuneIn (the fun way to listen if you are using Amazon’s Alexa), Between Parents is now on SoundCloud! You can chat back with us on Twitter @between_parents or on Instagram @betweenparents

Thanks for listening and sharing this podcast with your friends!

Nov 21, 2017

Do you ever feel like your calendar is the boss of you? Do you ever wonder how you became so over-committed? In this week’s podcast Billy & Joy discuss one family’s process and discovery of knowing when to quit.

Links:

Knowing When to Quit – article here

LA really is a doughnut heaven! - check out this article or google for yourself ; ) 

Talk about this:

What do we want outside family activity to provide? What can't it provide (that WE should be responsible for)?

What are we willing to give (the cost) to get the benefit (the value)?

Will (or DO) our kids know the benefit? Can they verbalize it to us currently?

What will we do if we need to edit our plan?

Also remember…

We are on Facebook! If you like the page you’ll receive more consistent updates and be able to share episodes with others. Connect with us @BetweenParentsPodcast

Have you left a review on Apple Podcasts (formerly know as iTunes)? This is SUPER helpful in helping others find our show. Along with Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Stitcher, and TuneIn (the fun way to listen if you are using Amazon’s Alexa), Between Parents is now on SoundCloud AND Google Play! You can chat back with us on Twitter @between_parents or on Instagram @betweenparents .

Thanks for listening and sharing this podcast with your friends!

Nov 14, 2017

When you live in close proximity to someone, particularly a spouse, eventually that person will annoy you. What do you do with this irritation? Is it avoidable? Is there a way to short-circuit the process and not be so easily frustrated? Billy & Joy serve up some ideas in this episode, so have a listen!

Talk about this:

Today's question is REALLY high on the vulnerability scale - Perhaps it's good for an awkward date night (episode #11) - but this question is WORTH the awkwardness...three ground rules:
Ask sincerely
Listen without being defensive
If necessary, close by apologizing

Ready? Here you go… ask your spouse, “When are you most likely to you feel that I am annoyed by you?”

Also remember…

We are on Facebook! If you like the page you’ll receive more consistent updates and be able to share episodes with others. Connect with us @BetweenParentsPodcast

Have you left a review on Apple Podcasts (formerly know as iTunes)? This is SUPER helpful in helping others find our show. Along with Apple Podcasts, Overcast, and Stitcher, and TuneIn (the fun way to listen if you are using Amazon’s Alexa), Between Parents is now on SoundCloud! You can chat back with us on Twitter @between_parents or on Instagram @betweenparents

Thanks for listening and sharing this podcast with your friends!

Nov 7, 2017

Imagine a teacher, coach, or neighbor describing your parenting profile, what terms would they use? Are they positive or negative descriptions? In this episode Billy and Joy review ten parenting profiles – five negative and five positive. Think of them as coins with a distinct flip side! However, when if comes to parenting, YOU get to pick what side your coin lands on. What do you choose? Are you…

The Complaining Parent or The Uplifting Parent?
The Panic Parent or The Measured Parent?
The Competitive Parent or The Celebratory Parent?
The Gossip Parent or The Quiet Parent?
The Chaos Parent or the Calm Parent?

Lots of things to talk about here! Take a listen.

Talk about this:

Which type of parent are you most likely to become? Don't just answer for yourself -- ask your spouse/friend what type they think you're most likely to become?

How are those negative responses working for you really? What could be improved should you respond differently?

What are the triggers for your reaction?

How can you build in new, positive responses?

Related-ish note

The German word for taking joy in the trouble of others is Schadenfreude

Also remember…

We are on Facebook! If you like the page you’ll receive more consistent updates and be able to share episodes with others. Connect with us @BetweenParentsPodcast

Have you left a review on Apple Podcasts (formerly know as iTunes)? This is SUPER helpful in helping others find our show. Along with Apple Podcasts, Overcast, and Stitcher, and TuneIn (the fun way to listen if you are using Amazon’s Alexa), Between Parents is now on SoundCloud! You can chat back with us on Twitter @between_parents or on Instagram @betweenparents

Thanks for listening and sharing this podcast with your friends!

Oct 31, 2017

What does a parent do? This is a simple question, but can you boil the answer down to something clear and compelling? In today’s episode Billy and Joy kick around one classic word picture that’s timeless and encouraging for families even today.

Talk about this:

How do you define coaching in the context of your family... what kind of coach are you?

When is it most difficult for you to show up as a coach? (when you wake up? walk down the road? etc.)

Also remember…

We are on Facebook! If you like the page you’ll receive more consistent updates and be able to share episodes with others. Connect with us @BetweenParentsPodcast

Have you left a review on Apple Podcasts (formerly know as iTunes)? This is SUPER helpful in helping others find our show. Along with Apple Podcasts, Overcast, and Stitcher, Between Parents is now on TuneIn (the fun way to listen if you are using Amazon’s Alexa). You can chat back with us on Twitter @between_parents or on Instagram @betweenparents

Thanks for listening and sharing this podcast with your friends!

Oct 24, 2017

Why is it so hard to get home from the office? What keeps us from racing home? In today’s episode Billy and Joy talk about some of the factors standing in our way and offer some reminders of things we can do differently.

Talk about this:

Do you REALLY believe your presence at home makes a difference?

Do you feel the urgency of waning days?

What are your unique factors in your particular season?

Related Links:

Pew Research Fathers Day Facts

Forbes Article -25 Biggest regrets 

Bronnie Ware – Top Five Regrets of the Dying 

Harvard Business Review – Long hours backfire for people and companies

Also remember…

We are on Facebook! If you like the page you’ll receive more consistent updates and be able to share episodes with others. Connect with us @BetweenParentsPodcast

Have you left a review on Apple Podcasts (formerly know as iTunes)? This is SUPER helpful in helping others find our show. Along with Apple Podcasts, Overcast, and Stitcher, Between Parents is now on TuneIn (the fun way to listen if you are using Amazon’s Alexa). You can chat back with us on Twitter @between_parents or on Instagram @betweenparents

Thanks for listening and sharing this podcast with your friends!

Oct 17, 2017

Your kids are growing up fast. How does that make you feel? Are you excited? Do you dread the loss of the little years? In this episode Billy and Joy kick around some mental frameworks to help parents cope with loss and celebrate every childhood season.

Talk about this:

What leads me to try to hang on childhood in my kids?

What should I be looking forward to that I might be missing?

What are my goals for my kids when they are 15 years? 20 years? 25 years? (And what am I doing that will lead us there?)

Also remember…
We are on Facebook! If you like the page you’ll receive more consistent updates and be able to share episodes with others. Connect with us @BetweenParentsPodcast

Have you left a review on Apple Podcasts (formerly know as iTunes)? This is SUPER helpful in helping others find our show. Along with Apple Podcasts, Overcast, and Stitcher, Between Parents is now on TuneIn (the fun way to listen if you are using Amazon’s Alexa). You can chat back with us on Twitter @between_parents or on Instagram @betweenparents

Thanks for listening and sharing this podcast with your friends!

 

Oct 10, 2017

Extra-marital affairs can be ruinous to marriage, family, and self-esteem and yet they are familiar parts many storylines. Is it possible to stop them from happening in the first place? In today’s episode Billy and Joy talk about factors that erode our relationship and what we should focus on to keep our marriage strong.

Talk about this:

How much do we talk about our temptations as a couple? How much do we talk about what concerns us? How can we be better?

In what areas might I/we be "eroding?"

Is there any practice or mindset that might leave us more exposed to having affairs?

Related links:

The Art of Manliness podcast #179 The Science of Cheating is excellent although NSFW due to topic. (here)

Pornography and broken relationships in Psychology Today (here)

Guardrails – Message 3 Forever Yours (here)

Also remember…
We are on Facebook! If you like the page you’ll receive more consistent updates and be able to share episodes with others. Connect with us @BetweenParentsPodcast

Have you left a review on Apple Podcasts (formerly know as iTunes)? This is SUPER helpful in helping others find our show. Along with Apple Podcasts, Overcast, and Stitcher, Between Parents is now on TuneIn (the fun way to listen if you are using Amazon’s Alexa). You can chat back with us on Twitter @between_parents or on Instagram @betweenparents

Thanks for listening and sharing this podcast with your friends!

Oct 3, 2017

“Believe it or not, you will survive toddler hood.” People may tell you this, but some days it’s hard to believe. In this episode, Billy & Joy go through 20 practical tips for making the most of these very fast (and exhausting) years.

Here are the headlines:

  1. Know the difference between asking questions versus making statements
  2. When you DO give choices (and you should) make sure you are happy with the options
  3. Pick your battles (especially over food, clothes, toys)
  4. Follow up on threats & promises
  5. Customize your discipline
  6. Value the time at the dinner table
  7. Figure out when you (the parent) are getting a break
  8. Get outside
  9. No electronics in the car, at the dinner table, or restaurant
  10. Practice emotions
  11. Have your core value statements in place
  12. Ask more questions than you answer
  13. Have a thick skin
  14. Pay attention fast
  15. Build in extra time
  16. Practice manners
  17. Use your words - keep them positive
  18. Remember to play
  19. Stay calm
  20. Pay attention to your marriage

Talk about this:

1 Which of these practices do we feel like we're doing well? Where can we improve?

2 What would YOU add to the list?

3 - If you have a toddler, whom are you leaning into for wisdom or community? What system do you have to connect with them?

Also remember…
We are on Facebook! If you like the page you’ll receive more consistent updates and be able to share episodes with others. Connect with us @BetweenParentsPodcast

Have you left a review on Apple Podcasts (formerly know as iTunes)? This is SUPER helpful in helping others find our show. Along with Apple Podcasts, Overcast, and Stitcher, Between Parents is now on TuneIn (the fun way to listen if you are using Amazon’s Alexa). You can chat back with us on Twitter @between_parents or on Instagram @betweenparents

Thanks for listening and sharing this podcast with your friends!

Sep 26, 2017

Don’t think about elephants!

But what do you think about the moment you read the sentence? Yup… elephants!

The mind can’t process negatives so saying, “don’t” doesn’t help. Yet as parents telling our kids “don’t” do something is standard practice. Is it possible to give a more positive vision? Billy and Joy offer some practical ideas in today’s podcast.

Talk about this:

In what categories of my parenting do I seem to default to the defensive?

What are the "better visions" for my kids in the areas where they struggle?

What changes in time, schedule, and venues for discussion will help us grab this vision better?

Also remember…
We are on Facebook! If you like the page you’ll receive more consistent updates and be able to share episodes with others. Connect with us @BetweenParentsPodcast

Have you left a review on Apple Podcasts (formerly know as iTunes)? This is SUPER helpful in helping others find our show. Along with Apple Podcasts, Overcast, and Stitcher, Between Parents is now on TuneIn (the fun way to listen if you are using Amazon’s Alexa). You can chat back with us on Twitter @between_parents or on Instagram @betweenparents

 

Thanks for listening and sharing this podcast with your friends!

Sep 19, 2017

Have you ever looked at your spouse cross-eyed and wondered, “Why are you like that?” only to meet their family and then understand? In this episode Billy and Joy talk about how our family of origin impacts our marriage and why we need to get this connections out in the open. They discuss triggers and how to build empathy through understanding our background.

Talk about this:

  1. How do you think your/my childhood home influences our home and marriage... for better or worse? What seems to be a specific tension for us?
  2. What tendencies are responses TOWARD upbringing? What tendencies are responses AWAY from upbringing?
  3. What is the healthiest way forward for use to address these tensions?
  4. What are some good prompts, agreements, or reminders we can use to short-cut the impact of the negative habits?

Also remember…
We are on Facebook! If you like the page you’ll receive more consistent updates and be able to share episodes with others. Connect with us @BetweenParentsPodcast

Have you left a review on Apple Podcasts (formerly know as iTunes)? This is SUPER helpful in helping others find our show. Along with Apple Podcasts, Overcast, and Stitcher, Between Parents is now on TuneIn (the fun way to listen if you are using Amazon’s Alexa). You can chat back with us on Twitter @between_parents or on Instagram @betweenparents

 

Thanks for listening and sharing this podcast with your friends!

Sep 12, 2017

Are you engaged or recently married? Do you know someone who is? Or have you been married for a while and forget all of the helpful newlywed tips? Take a listen as Joy & Billy review 21 quick bits of advice for how to get marriage off to a great start!

Spoiler… here’s the list!

  1. Go to bed at the same time
  2. No device in the bedroom
  3. Do unpleasant tasks together
  4. Hang out a lot together. (Aim for inefficiency)
  5. Create shorthand triggers
  6. Nest together
  7. Practice your faith together
  8. Prioritize community
  9. Serve together
  10. Observe the 10-to-10 rule
  11. Think about “being kind” rather than “being nice”
  12. Avoid major cash outlays in the first year
  13. Also avoid major new time commitments
  14. Have a plan with the in-laws
  15. Give yourselves time to grow – pace yourself
  16. Commit to NO conversations in your head!
  17. But don’t say EVERYthing!
  18. Don’t lose yourself
  19. Date your spouse
  20. Sneakaway with your spouse
  21. Assume good intentions

Talk about this:

If you're a newlywed or engaged, review the ENTIRE list with your spouse/fiance and talk about which areas might be challenges for you.

If you've been married for a while talk to your spouse about which of these YOU find most challenging.

Also remember…
We are on Facebook! If you like the page you’ll receive more consistent updates and be able to share episodes with others. Connect with us @BetweenParentsPodcast

Have you left a review on Apple Podcasts (formerly know as iTunes)? This is SUPER helpful in helping others find our show. Along with Apple Podcasts, Overcast, and Stitcher, Between Parents is now on TuneIn (the fun way to listen if you are using Amazon’s Alexa). You can chat back with us on Twitter @between_parents or on Instagram @betweenparents

 

Thanks for listening and sharing this podcast with your friends!

Sep 5, 2017

Do you know the most important part your kid’s education process? In this week’s podcast Billy & Joy discuss Seth Godin's opinion that the best education focuses on just two things. Listen in and decide if you agree!

Seth Godin quote

“ Sooner or later parents have to take responsibility for putting their kids into a system that is indebting them and teaching them to be cogs in an economy that doesn’t want cogs anymore. Parents get to decide. I’m a huge fan of public school … But from 3 to 10 those kids are getting homeschooled, and they’re either getting homeschooled watching the Flintstones or they’re getting homeschooled in learning something useful. And I think we need to teach kids two things: one, how to lead, and two, how to solve interesting problems.

There are plenty of countries on earth where people are willing to be obedient and work harder for less money than us. So we cannot out-obedience the competition. Therefore we have to out lead or out solve the other people … who want whatever is scarce. The way you teach your kid to solve interesting problems is to give them interesting problems to solve. And then, don’t criticize them when they fail. Kids aren’t stupid. If they get in trouble every time they try to solve an interesting problem, they’ll just go back to getting an A by memorizing what’s in the textbook …

We don’t need to have them spend a lot of time getting good grades so they can get into a famous college, because famous colleges don’t work anymore. Famous colleges don’t work anymore. The point is, is there an entity that will have trouble living without you when you seek to earn a living? Because if there is, you’ll be able to make a living. If on the other hand you’re waiting in the placement office for someone to pick you, you will be persistently undervalued. “

Talk about this:

What are practical ways we can get our kids to practice leadership?

What are my tendencies that might undermine their leadership process?

What are interesting problem solving skills we can give our kids this week?

What are my tendencies that might undermine their problem-solving process?

Related Links:

Bats and turbines – read at your peril here

The Seth Godin conversation was originally found on the Tim Ferriss Podcast here

Also remember…
We are on Facebook! If you like the page you’ll receive more consistent updates and be able to share episodes with others. Connect with us @BetweenParentsPodcast

Have you left a review on Apple Podcasts (formerly know as iTunes)? This is SUPER helpful in helping others find our show. Along with Apple Podcasts, Overcast, and Stitcher, Between Parents is now on TuneIn (the fun way to listen if you are using Amazon’s Alexa). You can chat back with us on Twitter @between_parents or on Instagram @betweenparents

 

Thanks for listening and sharing this podcast with your friends!

Aug 29, 2017

What if you had to summarize your life story in a few brief statements – what would you say? Consider the headlines of your life; milestones that rise to the level of being noted. What if you were to reverse engineer your life, how you raise your kids and the way you treat your marriage based on the milestones you want to hit? In today’s episode, Billy and Joy talk through four things to consider for your family's story.

Talk about this:

First - think about your story - how do you describe the milestones of your life? What do your sentences sound like?

NOW - talk to your spouse/friend/small group about the aspirational sentences you want your spouse/kid to say about your life.

Think about the categories about how you spent your time, attention, and resources.

Also remember…
We are on Facebook! If you like the page you’ll receive more consistent updates and be able to share episodes with others. Connect with us @BetweenParentsPodcast

Have you left a review on Apple Podcasts (formerly know as iTunes)? This is SUPER helpful in helping others find our show. Along with Apple Podcasts, Overcast, and Stitcher, Between Parents is now on TuneIn (the fun way to listen if you are using Amazon’s Alexa). You can chat back with us on Twitter @between_parents or on Instagram @betweenparents

Aug 22, 2017

No one likes to be picked at…but criticism is especially deadly in marriage. In this episode Billy & Joy challenge you to try and see your critical habits in the mirror and to consider the impact they have on your marriage.

Talk about this:

What critique hurts more than others?

What critiques feel like personal preferences?

What criticisms are good advice, but delivered poorly?

What topic/issue is most important to you?

How does your wiring impact the way you communicate?

Also remember…
We are on Facebook! If you like the page you’ll receive more consistent updates and be able to share episodes with others. Connect with us @BetweenParentsPodcast

Have you left a review on Apple Podcasts (formerly know as iTunes)? This is SUPER helpful in helping others find our show. Along with Apple Podcasts, Overcast, and Stitcher, Between Parents is now on TuneIn (the fun way to listen if you are using Amazon’s Alexa). You can chat back with us on Twitter @between_parents or on Instagram @betweenparents

Thanks for listening and sharing this podcast with your friends.

 

Aug 15, 2017

The world is a crazy place!

Like every generation before, today’s parents have to process difficult news with their kids. But where do we start? What do we say? How can we explain events we don’t fully understand?

In today’s podcast, Billy and Joy talk about principles parents should consider as they process current events with their kids. How do we lead our family well - and wisely - when we are emotionally charged ourselves?

Talk about this:

Are there any "general rules" we violate?

How well do we process current events as a family? How can we improve?

WHAT seems like it needs processing these days?

Also remember…
We are on Facebook! If you like the page you’ll receive more consistent updates and be able to share episodes with others. Connect with us @BetweenParentsPodcast

Have you left a review on Apple Podcasts (formerly know as iTunes)? This is SUPER helpful in helping others find our show. Along with Apple Podcasts, Overcast, and Stitcher, Between Parents is now on TuneIn (the fun way to listen if you are using Amazon’s Alexa). You can chat back with us on Twitter @between_parents or on Instagram @betweenparents

Thanks for listening and sharing this podcast with your friends!

 

Aug 8, 2017

Parents are often nervous about talking to their kids about sex. While this is natural, we need to shake off these nerves and jump into the discussion. But where do you begin? In this podcast Billy and Joy give some practical ideas of when to start and what to cover.

Talk about this:

For each of your kids ask, "What are our family priorities in terms of TIMING - CONTEXT - and CONTENT of what we want our kids to know about sex?"

Who are some people we can talk to and ask about their process of guiding their kids through this conversation?

Also remember…
We are on Facebook! If you like the page you’ll receive more consistent updates and be able to share episodes with others. Connect with us @BetweenParentsPodcast

Have you left a review on Apple Podcasts (formerly know as iTunes)? This is SUPER helpful in helping others find our show. Along with Apple Podcasts, Overcast, and Stitcher, Between Parents is now on TuneIn (the fun way to listen if you are using Amazon’s Alexa). You can chat back with us on Twitter @between_parents or on Instagram @betweenparents

Thanks for listening and remember to share this podcast with your friends!

Aug 1, 2017

Whether we acknowledge it or not, sex is more than just a physical act. In today’s episode, Billy and Joy discuss nine intimacy principles that impact every relationship and then they tee up a list of questions that should open the flow of communication. Take a listen and, more importantly, have a chat!

Talk about this:

  1. What eternal factors seem to affect our sex life the most … (schedule, low energy, distractions are a few suggestions)? What are some ideas to manage them?
  2. What from our past (individually or together) seems to affects our sex life the most? What are ideas to deal with them in a healthy way?
  3. What impact does body image plays into our sex life?
  4. With 10 being “best ever” and 1 being “very poor,” how would you rate our communication about the feelings / thoughts regarding our sex life? What are some ways that we can communicate better?
  5. What are some things you enjoy most about our sex life? What could I do to help you enjoy it more?
  6. Is there something you desire sexually that I can help fulfill?
  7. Are there moments you are uncomfortable sexually? If so, what can I do to help?
  8. What boundaries do we or should we have in place to protect our intimacy?
  9. What role do you think that our natural wirings (either as male, female, or simply individuals) play into our sexual desires or habits?
  10. How well does our sex life fit into your expectations? Are there things we need to do differently to better manage our expectations? If so, what are they? 

Also remember…
We are on Facebook! If you like the page you’ll receive more consistent updates and be able to share episodes with others. Connect with us @BetweenParentsPodcast

Have you left a review on Apple Podcasts (formerly know as iTunes)? This is SUPER helpful in helping others find our show. Along with Apple Podcasts, Overcast, and Stitcher, Between Parents is now on TuneIn (the fun way to listen if you are using Amazon’s Alexa). You can chat back with us on Twitter @between_parents or on Instagram @betweenparents

Thanks for listening and sharing this podcast with your friends!

Jul 25, 2017

Writer Stephen Covey said, "The enemy of the 'best' is often the 'good.'" This is certainly true in marriage as couples often lose what’s best while they do what’s good. In this episode Billy and Joy discuss how marriages often develop ruts and how couples can make changes to keep relationships fresh. 

Talk about this:

What are your ruts?
What do you miss?
What do you wish you did more of / less of?
What is your plan to jump out of ruts?

Related(ish) Links:

Table Talk Conversation Starters - here

Also remember…
We are on Facebook! If you like the page you’ll receive more consistent updates and be able to share episodes with others. Connect with us @BetweenParentsPodcast

Have you left a review on Apple Podcasts (formerly know as iTunes)? This is SUPER helpful in helping others find our show. Along with Apple Podcasts, Overcast, and Stitcher, Between Parents is now on TuneIn (the fun way to listen if you are using Amazon’s Alexa). You can chat back with us on Twitter @between_parents or on Instagram @betweenparents

Thanks for listening and sharing this podcast with your friends!

Jul 18, 2017

Our words are powerful, particularly as we use them with our kids. In this episode, Billy & Joy talk through a strategy of how to use words well and how to avoid common pitfalls in our families. They talk about the danger in making comparison statements and how to make statements that will be memorable (in a good way!)

Talk about this:

In light of where your kids are CURRENTLY... what message do they need most from you?

What are some creative ways to deliver that message?

What (if any) unintended messages are you most at risk of sending? How do you prevent them?

Related link:

Elizabeth Smart TED talk is here.

Also remember…
We are on Facebook! If you like AND follow the page you’ll receive more consistent updates and be able to share episodes with others. Connect with us @BetweenParentsPodcast

Have you left a review on Apple Podcasts (formerly know as iTunes)? This is SUPER helpful in helping others find our show. Along with Apple Podcasts, Overcast, and Stitcher, Between Parents is now on TuneIn (the fun way to listen if you are using Amazon’s Alexa). You can chat back with us on Twitter @between_parents or on Instagram @betweenparents

Thanks for listening and sharing this podcast with your friends!

Jul 4, 2017

Did you pick up the dry cleaning? Have you walked the dog? Did you pay the bill? Every day we ask our spouse a list of questions, but most of them don’t impact our relationship. On this episode, Billy and Joy talk about one question that has the ability to improve EVERY relationship.

Take a listen and ask your spouse this simple, impactful question!

Talk about this:

What are your least favorite family chores/activities?
What chores feel tedious?

How well do we notice when our spouse needs help?

AND FINALLY….

How can I help?

Also remember…
We are on Facebook! If you like the page you’ll receive more consistent updates and be able to share episodes with others. Connect with us @BetweenParentsPodcast

Have you left a review on Apple Podcasts (formerly know as iTunes)? This is SUPER helpful in helping others find our show. Along with Apple Podcasts, Overcast, and Stitcher, Between Parents is now on TuneIn (the fun way to listen if you are using Amazon’s Alexa). You can chat back with us on Twitter @between_parents or on Instagram @betweenparents

 

Thanks for listening and sharing this podcast with your friends!

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