When teens feel overwhelmed by big emotions, their behavior can become confusing—and sometimes frightening—for parents. In this episode, we’re joined by therapist Katie May to unpack what’s really happening beneath high-risk behaviors like self-harm, emotional shutdown, and reactivity. Together, we explore how these behaviors often serve as coping strategies, not attention-seeking, and why understanding the “why” behind them is key to helping your teen.

We also break down the difference between self-harm and suicidality, the role of validation in building trust, and practical ways parents can respond without making things worse. If you’ve ever felt unsure how to support your struggling teen, this conversation will give you clarity, language, and a path forward.

About Katie
Katie K. May is a licensed therapist, author, speaker, and group practice owner. She founded Creative Healing, a multi-location teen support center in the Philadelphia area, and wrote the #1 Amazon best-seller You’re On Fire, It’s Fine. With lived experience as a teen who turned to self-harm, Katie is one of only 11 Linehan ("Lynn-uh-hayn") Board Certified DBT Clinicians in Pennsylvania, the gold standard treatment for self-harm and suicidal behaviors. She equips parents and clinicians with practical, trauma-informed tools to decode behavior as survival and create lasting change.

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

Paying for college has become increasingly complex, and for many families, the financial decisions involved can feel overwhelming. In this episode, Sam and Melissa are joined by financial planner Kimberly Weihbrecht to break down how FAFSA, financial aid packages, and student loans actually work–and why costs can vary so widely from one school to another.

They also explore upcoming changes to student loan policies in 2026, the risks of parent borrowing, and practical strategies for navigating the process, including how to appeal for financial aid and advocate for your family. This conversation offers clarity, reassurance, and actionable steps for parents facing one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives.

About Kimberly

Kimberly Weihbrecht, CCFS®, CSLP®, is a financial planner at Fearless Finance, where she helps clients gain confidence and clarity around their financial lives. Kim works with individuals and families on cash flow management, debt and savings strategies, retirement planning, specializing in college financial planning, including guidance on FAFSA and financial aid decisions, and student loan management.

Connect with Kimberly: https://fearlessfinance.com/

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

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Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Sam and Melissa sit down with career coach, Jessica Roffe, to talk about what career readiness really looks like for teens and young adults today. With over a decade of experience helping students navigate uncertainty, Jessica shares a refreshing perspective: teens don’t need to have it all figured out. They need to start with self-awareness, curiosity, and real-world exploration.

Together, they unpack how parents can support their teens without adding pressure, why depth of experience matters more than doing “all the things,” and how simple steps like conversations, networking, and trying new opportunities can build confidence over time. This episode is full of practical, reassuring advice for any parent guiding their teen through the early stages of figuring out their future.

About Jessica
Jessica Roffe has spent over 12 years helping students and young adults turn uncertainty into career confidence. 

She is the Founder of Career Beginnings LLC, where she supports students and young professionals through personalized coaching and practical workshops focused on career readiness– including internships and job searches, resumes and LinkedIn, networking, interviewing, and building a strong personal brand.

In addition to running Career Beginnings, Jessica works full time at the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business, where she advises and teaches students and has earned a Distinguished Teaching Award for instructional excellence. She is a Certified Career Services Provider through the National Career Development Association and holds a master’s degree in Higher & Postsecondary Education from Columbia University’s Teachers College.

Additional Resources

OneStopCareer. https://www.careeronestop.org/

O*Net https://www.onetonline.org/ 

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

 In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Sam and Melissa talk with therapist Katharine Petzold about how a couple’s relationship shapes a child’s emotional wellbeing. Through relatable (and often funny) moments, they explore why parents react the way they do, introducing the “wounded child,” “adaptive child,” and “wise adult.” The conversation emphasizes that it’s not about perfection, but repair—modeling healthy connection after conflict. You’ll leave with simple, practical insights to strengthen your relationships and create a more emotionally secure home, plus a fun musical bonus at the end. 

About Katharine

Katharine Petzold is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW-C) with 9 years of experience, specializing in relationship and couples therapy. She is a Certified Relational Life (RLT) Therapist and Facilitator of RLT’s Relationship Bootcamp, leading biannual intensive workshops that build connection, accountability, and emotional intimacy for individuals, couples, and the mental health professionals who work with them. Katharine’s compassionate, skills-based approach is grounded in relational and neurobiological insights. By night, she is also a singer-songwriter (Kat Parsons) and has recently recorded new songs about parenting.

Learn more about the Relationship Bootcamp

Find out about the Emotional Fitness Studio

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

Working parents face some of the highest rates of stress and burnout globally.

In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Sam and Melissa talk with Dr. Rosina McAlpine about how workplaces can become truly family-friendly–and why burnout prevention matters

You’ll learn:

• Why working parents are at higher risk of burnout
• What psychosocial safety means in the workplace
• The five steps to building a family-friendly organization
• Why prevention beats crisis response
• How being “self-full” benefits everyone

If you’re balancing parenting and career, or leading an organization that employs working parents, this conversation is essential.

About Dr. Rosina McAlpine

Dr. Rosina an internationally recognized expert on parenting, managing work and family life, working parents, researcher, and media contributor.  Dr. Rosina is the founder of Win Win Parenting, a research-based program that is delivered in small, medium and large organisations and workplaces for all levels of government to inspire and resource working parents with strategies to better navigate day-to-day parenting challenges, support their mental health, manage work-life balance, reduce stress, and prevent burnout.  Dr. Rosina can offer a unique perspective –she has been featured on TV, print and radio media platforms – highlights include: the New York Post, The Today Show, with a regular spot on ABC Radio, and has spoken at corporate events globally. 

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

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Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

Spring break season is here…and with it comes family travel.

In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Sam and Melissa explore how to manage family vacation expectations so you don’t come home needing another vacation

You’ll learn:

• Why vacations don’t change personalities
• How to clarify the purpose of your trip
• How to travel with teens realistically
• Why buffer days matter
• How to handle sibling conflict on vacation
• Why money doesn’t guarantee fun

Travel doesn’t erase family dynamics. But it can create shared experiences that matter.

Listen now and share with a parent planning spring break.

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

Follow:
Sam – Instagram & Facebook
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Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

Money is one of the biggest sources of stress in families — and one of the least discussed topics.

In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Sam and Melissa sit down with Lori Atwood, founder of Fearless Finance, to explore how parents can model calm, confident financial behavior and teach teens real-world money skills

You’ll learn:

➡️How your emotional response to money shapes your child’s money story

➡️Why every family needs both an “oops” fund and an emergency fund

➡️When to start allowance (and why not to tie it to chores)

➡️How to introduce debit cards and banking in high school

➡️Why teens need small financial mistakes now

➡️How to explain investing and compounding before college

Financial literacy is about more than dollars. It’s about resilience, values, and long-term thinking.

Listen now and share with a parent who wants to raise financially capable teens.

Ready to learn more? Mention "Shrink Wrapped" when you contact Fearless Finance to get $50 off your first meeting

About Lori

Lori Atwood is the founder and CEO of Fearless Finance and a CFP® professional.  Lori created Fearless Finance to make expert, fiduciary, hourly financial planning accessible to everyone with no sales, no minimums, and no judgement. Lori’s been in finance for over 25 years starting in investment banking, asset management and private equity before starting Fearless Finance in 2016.

Connect with Lori and Fearless Finance
Instagram: Fearless Finance
Facebook: Fearless Finance

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

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Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this episode, Sam and Melissa welcome Dr. Susan Zink, board-certified psychiatrist and founder of Elemental Integrative Psychiatry, to explore how perimenopause impacts mood, anxiety, sleep, cognition, and overall functioning.

They discuss:

• What perimenopause is and how long it lasts
 • Why estrogen and progesterone affect mood and sleep
 • How perimenopause can mimic or worsen ADHD
 • The role of sleep apnea and insomnia
 • Lifestyle strategies and cognitive behavioral therapy for sleep
 • The evolving research around hormone replacement therapy
If you’ve noticed increased anxiety, irritability, brain fog, or sleep disruption in midlife, this episode offers clarity and hope.

You don’t have to white-knuckle your way through it.

About Dr. Zink

 Dr. Zink is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with more than 16 years of experience and the founder of EleMental Integrative Psychiatry in Linwood, NJ. She specializes in helping women navigate anxiety, depression, insomnia, and hormonal mood changes related to pregnancy, postpartum, and perimenopause so they can feel like themselves again. As a mother of three daughters, she brings both professional expertise and personal understanding to the emotional complexity of these life stages. 

Connect with Dr. Zink: Instagram

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

Follow:
Sam – Instagram & Facebook
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Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

What happens when your child’s personality is nothing like yours?

In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Sam and Melissa sit down with psychiatrist Dr. Brian J. Dixon to explore how temperament differences shape family dynamics.
We unpack:
➡️The difference between introversion and extroversion
➡️Why personality mismatches can trigger parental worry
➡️How development changes personality expression over time
➡️The role of social media in amplifying personality extremes
➡️When to seek consultation — and when to relax

If you’ve ever wondered whether your teen’s behavior reflects a deeper issue or simply who they are, this episode provides clarity, reassurance, and practical insight.

Because different doesn’t mean broken. And you don’t have to navigate it alone.

Dr. Brian J. Dixon is an award winning psychiatrist and author who believes that an examined life is a life worth living.  He is owner of Texas based Mindful, a direct pay psychiatry practice and Simply Psych, providing business coaching to the nation's bravest mental health clinicians.

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

Follow:
Sam – Instagram & Facebook
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Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Sam and Melissa sit down with child and adolescent psychiatrist Dr. Afshan Sultana to talk about teen depression–how it shows up, how it’s different from normal teenage mood swings, and what parents can do when they’re concerned. 

They break down the emotional, behavioral, and academic signs to watch for, how to talk to your teen without minimizing their feelings, and when it’s time to seek professional help. This is an honest, compassionate conversation designed to give parents clarity and confidence during a difficult season. 

For more expert support and practical tools on teen mental health and communication, parents are also invited to join the free Teen Savvy Parent Summit, happening, Feb 15 and 16, 2026, where specialists share guidance to help you better understand and support your teen. Register for free at: teensavvycoaching.com/summit

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

Follow:
Sam – Instagram & Facebook
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Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

Step-parenting and blended families come with unique emotional challenges for both adults and kids.

In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Sam and Melissa talk with Richard Ramos, founder of Parents on a Mission and author of The Art of Step-Parenting, about why connection must come before correction in blended families. They explore discipline, loyalty conflicts, and the importance of adult emotional maturity when supporting kids through family change.

This conversation offers grounded, compassionate guidance for parents navigating step-parenting, co-parenting, or complex family dynamics.

Resources Mentioned
The Art of Step-Parenting by Richard Ramos
Parents on a Mission
RichardRRamos.com

Get Richard’s free resource: 3 Tools to Navigate Disrespect, Eye Rolls, and Back Talk

Richard Ramos equips parents and community leaders with tools to rebuild trust, strengthen families, and mentor the next generation with confidence. Through Parents on a Mission, he helps communities create safer, stronger futures by empowering parents to lead with clarity, consistency, and care. 

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

Follow:
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Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Sam and Melissa are joined by therapist and author Sophia Vale Galano for a practical, compassionate conversation about supporting teens with anxiety. Sophia shares key insights from her book Calming Teenage Anxiety, including how parents can shift from fixing to curiosity, recognize when anxiety becomes more than everyday stress, and avoid unintentionally rescuing or reinforcing anxious patterns. This episode offers clear guidance, realistic reassurance, and actionable takeaways for parents navigating teen anxiety with greater confidence and connection. 

About Sophia
Sophia Vale Galano is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a private therapy practice in Los Angeles, California. She has worked with teens and their families for over a decade and is the author of Calming Teenage Anxiety: A Parent’s Guide to Helping Your Teenager Cope with Worry.

Want more conversations like this one? The Teen Savvy Parent Summit brings together top experts to help you navigate teen anxiety, mental health, and real-life parenting challenges with confidence. Register for the free online summit today!

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

Follow:
Sam – Instagram & Facebook
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Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

Talking about bodies, boundaries, and relationships can feel uncomfortable for many parents — but silence often does more harm than good.

In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Sam and Melissa are joined by therapist, educator, and author Dr. Tina Schermer Sellers for an honest conversation about how shame develops, why it impacts connection, and how parents can create safer, healthier conversations with their kids.

This episode offers reassurance, practical guidance, and a reminder that parents don’t need to have it all figured out — just a willingness to stay in the conversation.

Learn more about Dr. Tina: https://www.drtinashameless.com/

Dr. Tina Schermer Sellers, PhD, LMFT, CST-S is a therapist, educator, and author with nearly 30 years of experience in relational and sexual health. She is the author of Sex, God & the Conservative Church and Shameless Parenting, and the founder of the Northwest Institute on Intimacy and Inanna Rising. Her work centers on healing shame, strengthening relationships, and advancing compassionate, justice-informed care. 

Resources mentioned:

• Not Under My Roof, a book mentioned in the episode
• Shameless Parenting by Dr. Tina Schermer Sellers
• Sex, God, and the Conservative Church

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

Are teens being over-diagnosed? In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Sam and Melissa talk with researcher and educator Dr. Will Dobud about teen mental health beyond labels. They explore the difference between distress and disorder, how diagnoses can shape identity, and why resilience grows through experience—not quick fixes.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

"You Aren't in The DSM": https://asteriskmag.com/issues/12-books/you-arent-in-the-dsm

Parenting Shrink Wrapped Episode 15: The Power of Play

About Will

Dr. Will Dobud is a social worker, researcher, and educator who works with adolescents and families internationally. His research focuses on improving therapy outcomes for teens and promoting safe, ethical practices. He is an award-winning researcher recognized for excellence in research, teaching, and crime prevention.

www.kidsthesedaysbook.com

A special invite from Will: “If people purchase Kids These Days, they can email me and I can add them to a password protected section of the website which has our parenting resources booklet that I used for my adolescent programs we ran in Australia.” 

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

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Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

Parenting comes with an invisible mental load that many caregivers carry without even realizing it. In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Sam and Melissa are joined by therapist and mindfulness facilitator Kristin Whiting-Davis to explore the emotional weight of caregiving, unconscious “shoulds,” and the tendency for parents to over-function. They discuss why parenting can feel so exhausting, how constant vigilance impacts stress and well-being, and how small moments of mindfulness can help parents slow down, respond instead of react, and reset with compassion. This conversation offers reassurance and practical perspective for parents raising teens who want to care deeply without losing themselves in the process.

About Kristin

Kristin Whiting-Davis, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW, is a therapist, mindfulness facilitator, and founder of KWD Wellness, a virtual therapy and training practice serving caregivers and helping professionals across DC, Maryland, and Virginia. With more than twenty years of experience, she supports people who give deeply—parents, therapists, healthcare providers, and others who often feel the weight of being everything to everyone. Before moving full time into her current roles, Kristin worked across child welfare, community mental health, schools, a children’s hospital, and behavioral health management. She’s also a parent of two sons and a pet mom to three beloved animals. Her work blends trauma-informed care, mindfulness, and somatic awareness to help others find steadiness and sustainable wellbeing.

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

Follow:
Sam – Instagram & Facebook
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Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

Teen parties can bring up a lot of anxiety for parents—especially around safety, substances, and peer pressure. In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Sam and Melissa talk about how to navigate teenage parties with clarity instead of fear. They explore how to set clear expectations, understand your teen’s risk profile, manage parental anxiety, and balance safety with autonomy. 

This conversation offers practical frameworks and real-world guidance to help parents say yes when appropriate, set boundaries with confidence, and maintain trust as teens learn to make their own decisions.

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

Follow:
Sam – Instagram & Facebook
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Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

The holidays come with a lot of pressure…especially when you’re parenting teens. In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Sam and Melissa talk about the idea of the “good enough” holiday and why letting go of perfection can actually lead to more connection, less stress, and better outcomes for your family.

From navigating changing traditions and teen pushback to setting boundaries with extended family and releasing unrealistic expectations, this conversation offers practical, compassionate guidance for parents who want the holidays to feel meaningful—even when they don’t look perfect.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or worried you’re “doing it wrong,” this episode is your permission slip to simplify and focus on what really matters.

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

Follow:
Sam – Instagram & Facebook
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Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this episode, Sam and Melissa unpack one of the most common parenting challenges: setting boundaries with other parents. From playdates and birthday parties to sleepovers, tech rules, and teen hangouts, every stage brings new situations that test your comfort level and your values.

Sam shares personal stories and practical strategies for saying “no” kindly, navigating awkward moments, and using the word “and” to hold firm boundaries while still supporting your child’s social life. Melissa highlights how people-pleasing patterns from our own childhoods can make boundary-setting feel harder than it should.

You’ll learn how to:

• Set clear, values-based boundaries
• Decline invitations without guilt or over-explaining
• Talk with your kids about limits with empathy and clarity
• Handle tricky parent-to-parent dynamics at any age

This episode will help you approach boundaries with confidence — and model healthy decision-making for your kids.

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

Follow:
Sam – Instagram & Facebook
Melissa – Facebook

Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Melissa flips the script and interviews Sam about what parent coaching actually is, how it differs from therapy, and why it can be such a game-changer for families. Sam shares her journey from teacher to clinician to parent coach, the most common challenges parents bring her, and why understanding the teen brain is the key to calmer, more effective parenting. 

She also breaks down her signature tools—like rolling with resistance and parenting from your highest values—and explains how coaching helps parents strengthen connection while reducing conflict at home. Whether you're in crisis or simply want things to feel smoother with your teen, this episode offers clarity, hope, and practical strategies you can use right away.

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

Follow:
Sam – Instagram & Facebook
Melissa – Facebook

Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this one-year anniversary episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Melissa and Sam look back on the wild, wonderful journey of launching a parenting podcast with zero experience and a whole lot of heart. From favorite guest moments to personal growth, ADHD insights, holiday stress tips, and navigating parenting through chronic illness, this episode is equal parts honest, funny, and deeply relatable. If you're a parent craving practical tools, real-life stories, and expert guidance on raising teens and navigating family challenges, this reflective celebration episode is packed with wisdom you can use today.

Listen, subscribe, and keep learning alongside us as we help you parent with confidence, connection, and compassion.

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

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This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

 In this episode, Sam and Melissa sit down with clinical psychologist Dr. Eryn Kruger to demystify psychoeducational testing—what it is, why it matters, and how it can reveal the real reasons behind a child’s struggles at home or school. Dr. Kruger explains how testing goes far beyond “taking a test,” offering insight into a child’s learning style, processing speed, executive functioning, attention, and emotional health. Together, they unpack why bright kids can still fall apart at home, why ADHD can be tricky to diagnose, and how the right evaluation can shape treatment, school supports, and a child’s self-understanding. If you’ve ever wondered whether your child needs testing—or what testing even looks like—this conversation pulls back the curtain in a supportive, practical way. 

About Dr. Kruger

Eryn Kruger is a clinical psychologist at Annapolis Child and Family Therapy Center. She works with children, teens, and families, helping them build coping skills and resilience. Eryn also conducts developmental, psychological, and educational assessments to support each child’s unique needs. 

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

Teen substance use looks very different today. Sam and Dr. Melissa talk with clinician Allison Scarinzi about vaping, cannabis, synthetics, early conversations, red flags, and how to stay your teen’s safe person. This episode blends practical tools with compassionate guidance for parents navigating curiosity, peer pressure, and risk.

About Allison
Allison Scarinzi, LCSW-C, is the founder of Lotus Psychotherapy in Annapolis. She specializes in trauma-informed care, mental health crisis intervention, and adolescent substance use. She works closely with families and providers to support whole-person care.

Find out more about Lotus Psychotherapy

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

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This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

 Speech pathologist Ana Curtin joins Sam and Dr. Melissa to uncover how early oral habits—like thumb-sucking, pacifiers, and tongue ties—can impact airway development, sleep, focus, and emotional health well into the teen years. 

About Ana

 Ana Curtin is a speech-language pathologist and founder of S.P.E.A.K., LLC, a highly specialized practice serving children with mild to complex speech and feeding needs since 2002. She’s known for her collaborative, team-based approach and advanced training that supports whole-child care. 

Connect with Ana: S.P.E.A.K., LLC

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

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This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

 Pediatrician Dr. Rebecca Vickers joins Sam Straub and Dr. Melissa Wellner to discuss how functional medicine is transforming pediatric care. From gut health and food sensitivities to chronic inflammation, anxiety, and attention issues, Dr. Vickers explains why so many kids are getting sicker — and how parents can help uncover the root causes behind their child’s symptoms. Learn practical tips on improving kids’ health through nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes that support long-term wellness. 

Dr. Rebecca Vickers is a board-certified pediatrician with training at Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York City and Johns Hopkins Hospital. She’s been practicing primary care pediatrics since 1995 and leads Arundel Pediatrics in Annapolis, Maryland. Blending conventional and functional medicine, Dr. Vickers focuses on finding the root causes behind children’s health issues to help families achieve lasting wellness. 

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

If your teen dreads school, struggles to keep up, or feels unseen in a traditional classroom, this episode will open your eyes to what’s possible. Sam and Melissa sit down with Rebecca Luhm and Tonya Gardner from Fusion Academy in Columbia, Maryland—a one-to-one learning environment that helps students succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. They discuss how Fusion supports neurodiverse learners, students managing anxiety or chronic illness, and high-achievers who need flexibility to pursue their passions. You’ll hear inspiring stories of transformation and learn how personalized education can restore your teen’s confidence and love of learning. 

💻Connect with Fusion Academy

🌐Follow Fusion Academy

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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

From pumpkin costumes and family trick-or-treating to teen parties and candy negotiations, Halloween looks different at every stage of parenting. 

In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Dr. Melissa Wellner and Sam Straub share funny memories, honest confessions (including Sam’s strong feelings about chocolate), and practical advice for navigating Halloween as your kids grow up. They talk about the chaos of toddler meltdowns, the bittersweet shift when tweens want independence, and how to set healthy limits around candy without losing your mind. 

Whether you love Halloween or dread it, this conversation will help you enjoy the season and keep perspective through every spooky stage of parenthood. 

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this powerful episode, Sam and Melissa talk with Dr. Courtney Glickman, founder of The Collective Healing Center in Annapolis, MD, about how parents can recognize, respond to, and support children who have experienced sexual trauma—or any deeply distressing event.

Dr. Glickman explains how trauma shows up differently in kids, why disclosure can be so difficult, and how parents can help their children heal through connection, consistency, and compassion. She also breaks down “top-down” vs. “bottom-up” approaches to therapy, the importance of co-regulation, and why healing is not linear but ongoing.

Dr. Courtney Glickman is a trauma-informed therapist and founder of The Collective Healing Center in Annapolis, MD, specializing in play, expressive arts, and nature-based therapies for children, teens, and adults. 

Resources Mentioned

• The Collective Healing Center: collectivehealingcenter.com
• Child Trauma Stress Network: nctsn.org
• RAINN:  (Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network)
• Center for Nature-Informed Therapy: natureinformedtherapy.com
• National Sexual Violence Resource Center 
• The Child Help Hotline

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

 Parenting coach Sam Straub and Dr. Melissa Wellner talk with counselor and life coach Maria Winters about raising bicultural kids. Maria shares her journey from Venezuela to the U.S., the cultural mix in her family, and what it’s like to raise children with two languages and traditions. They explore the joys and challenges of bicultural parenting, from building empathy and flexibility to helping kids navigate identity, language, and family expectations. 

About Maria

Maria is passionate about helping others prioritize emotional wellness. She is a licensed mental health therapist in Maryland with over 20 years of experience supporting adults and teens. She’s a trained life coach, published author, podcast host, and creator of The Emotional Fitness Studio in Annapolis, MD. As founder of The Coaching Therapist, LLC, Maria’s mission is to share practical tools through workshops and training. She is originally from Venezuela and is fully bilingual in English and Spanish. 

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

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Follow:
Sam – Instagram & Facebook
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Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

Grief touches every family, yet many of us feel unsure how to guide ourselves—or our kids—through it. In this heartfelt conversation, Sam and Melissa talk with grief specialist Marna Brickman, LCSW-C, about the many forms grief can take, how it shows up in children and adults, and ways to honor loss while staying connected as a family. Marna shares how parents can:

• Normalize grief in kids of all ages
• Model healthy emotional expression
• Create rituals of remembrance
• Find meaning and support during hard times

Her message is simple but powerful: whatever you’re feeling, it’s normal.

Marna Brickman, LCSW-C, is co-owner of Guiding Therapy in Annapolis, Maryland. She specializes in grief counseling, women’s wellness, health-related transitions, and couples therapy. Known for her warm and grounding presence, Marna helps individuals and families move through loss with compassion and clarity.

Resources

• Guiding Therapy
• Grief.com David Kessler’s grief resources and support groups
• Tender Hearts grief support community

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

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Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Sam and Melissa unpack the sting of parenting judgment—both giving it and receiving it. Melissa shares a real-life Dunkin’ Donuts story involving a five-year-old, a pair of scissors, and an impromptu 80s rocker haircut that sparked an unhelpful comment from a stranger.

Together, Sam and Melissa explore why parents judge each other, how comparison is hardwired into our brains, and the damage it can do to our sense of community. They offer practical ways to shift from judgment to curiosity and compassion—reminding us that every parent is doing their best and that parenting was never meant to be done alone.

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

Follow:
Sam – Instagram & Facebook
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Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Sam and Melissa welcome Sam’s sister, Kate Peltz—an experienced college admissions counselor and former director of college counseling at Concord Academy. Kate shares what parents often don’t realize about the college application process, from the emotional rollercoaster seniors face to the hidden pressures parents bring to the table.

Resources from the Episode

• Backyard College Counseling 
• Fiske Guide to Colleges
• Guide to Colleges for Students with Learning Differences (16th ed.)
• Colleges That Change Lives
• The Price You Pay for College
• Never Enough

About Kate
Kate Peltz is a seasoned college admissions professional and former director of college counseling at Concord Academy. Now leading her own student-centered practice, she helps teens navigate applications and find the right path forward. 

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

Follow:
Sam – Instagram & Facebook
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Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

Childcare is one of the biggest challenges modern parents face—whether it’s during a crisis like COVID, while juggling work schedules, or simply trying to carve out time for your own sanity. In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Sam and Melissa dive into the real-life stories, lessons, and tough decisions that come with hiring, trusting, and sometimes saying goodbye to babysitters, nannies, and other caregivers.

From Melissa’s experience of holding on tight to a full-time nanny during the pandemic, to Sam’s stories of both beloved babysitters and less-than-ideal care, this conversation highlights the mix of gratitude, guilt, and growth that comes with letting others care for your kids.

You’ll hear:

• How to balance the emotional and financial decisions around childcare
• The unique dynamics when family members or relatives step in
• Green flags (like communication, punctuality, and respect for your household rules) that signal you’ve found a great fit
• Red flags that may mean it’s time to set firmer boundaries—or move on
• Why being upfront about your expectations makes life easier for everyone
• How to talk to your kids when a sitter or nanny leaves
• Signs your child might be ready to stay home alone—and how to “test drive” independence safely

Sam and Melissa also share candid stories of babysitting wins and fails—from sledding in blizzards to awkward oversharing—and dig into the tricky mix of trust, boundaries, and gut instinct that every parent navigates.

If you’ve ever debated whether it’s okay to hire a sitter just so you can exercise, struggled to decide when your tween can be home alone, or felt guilty about needing help at all—you’re not alone. This episode is packed with both practical tips and reassurance that trusting your gut and being clear about your needs makes all the difference.

Parenting is hard. Finding the right support doesn’t have to be impossible.

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

Follow:
Sam – Instagram & Facebook
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Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Melissa and Sam welcome Christa Welch, LCSW-C, founder of The Betty Center in Annapolis, MD. Krista shares the inspiring story behind naming the center after her mother, “OG Betty,” and how it has grown into a supportive hub for women, families, and the community.

Together, they dive into practical parenting wisdom—including how to check your motivation as a parent, shift your language around chores and responsibilities, and help kids build agency, confidence, and resilience. Krista also opens up about her own experiences with divorce, co-parenting, and raising kids while staying grounded in values.

If you’ve ever wondered how to separate your needs from your child’s, or how small shifts in parenting language can create big changes, this conversation is packed with insight and encouragement.

About Christa

Christa Welch is the founder of The Betty Center, a therapy practice and women’s hub in Annapolis, MD, created in honor of her late mother, Bettianne—the “original Betty.” The center offers mental health therapy, support groups, workshops, and professional consultations to support women and families through every stage of life. Christa earned her Master’s in Social Work at 47 and brings wisdom from both her education and life’s challenges—including divorce, breast cancer (twice), and parenting. Through it all, she leans on resilience, humor, and hope, and is most proud to be mom to Isabel (22) and Tilghman (18). 

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

Follow:
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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

 Back-to-school tips for elementary kids go beyond pencils and backpacks. Sam and Melissa talk with child therapist Jennifer Ruef about what kids—and parents—really face from kindergarten to 5th grade, academically, socially, and emotionally. 

In this episode:

• The emotional rollercoaster of sending a child to kindergarten
• Why 3rd grade marks such a big academic and social leap
• How perfectionism and homework battles show up in 1st–4th grade
• The unique mix of confidence and vulnerability in 5th grade

This episode wraps up our Nature of the Beast back-to-school series. If you missed earlier episodes, check out: College Edition with Dr. Kelly Wilcox, High School Edition, and Middle School Edition with Mary Foard

About Jennifer
Jennifer is an educator and child therapist who specializes in anxiety and OCD. With 15+ years as a school counselor and pupil personnel worker, she now supports kids and parents through her new practice, KidWise Counseling

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

Follow:
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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

Middle school—the years of awkwardness, growth spurts, eye rolls, and endless energy. In this Nature of the Beast series episode, Sam and Melissa sit down with Mary Foard, a veteran middle school counselor and mom of twins, to unpack what parents really need to know about sixth, seventh, and eighth graders.

From the emotional rollercoasters of seventh grade to the reclusive “indoor cat” phase of eighth grade, Mary shares candid stories and practical strategies for navigating these wild years with connection, humor, and grace.

You’ll learn:

• Why middle schoolers don’t have to agree with your rules for them to follow them
• How to support abstract thinking and independence without over-rescuing
• The importance of touch points—like family dinners and car conversations—even when kids roll their eyes
• How to stay grounded when social drama and sarcasm start swirling
• Why it’s okay (and healthy) to let kids struggle a little

If you’re raising a middle schooler—or about to—this episode is full of wisdom, reassurance, and a reminder that, as Mary puts it, “It will work out.”

👉 Listen in and find your footing for these unforgettable years.

About Mary

Mary Foard is entering her 14th year as a middle school counselor at an independent school outside of Annapolis, MD and has worked in private practice with adolescents and their families. Prior to that, she was a middle school teacher for 10 years. Mary holds a Masters in Clinical Psychology and a Masters in Teaching. She’s an expert in all things middle school. 

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrap, Melissa and Sam dive into the unique challenges, milestones, and surprises that come with each year of high school. From wide-eyed freshmen still running to class, to confident (and sometimes cocky) seniors navigating “lasts” and life after graduation, Sam walks us through the highs, lows, and everything in between.

We explore:

• Seniors – riding the wave of early-year leadership before “senioritis” hits, juggling college applications, and facing the bittersweet reality of final seasons, dances, and games.
• Juniors – under intense academic and extracurricular pressure, balancing standardized tests, varsity sports, jobs, and the social changes that come with driving and more independence.
• Sophomores – the “present” grade, enjoying newfound confidence, trying new activities, and avoiding the frantic energy of freshmen and the stress of upperclassmen.
• Freshmen – anxious, awkward, and figuring out high school’s unspoken rules while still depending on parents for rides (and maybe still sprinting to lunch).

This conversation is part of our Nature of the Beast back-to-school series. Be sure to check out: College Edition with Kelly Wilcox and stay tuned for the upcoming episodes with the Middle School & Elementary editions for insights tailored to those transitions.

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

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Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

College drop-off isn’t the end of parenting—it’s just the beginning of a new phase. In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Kelly Wilcox, Dean of Student Success at Haverford College, to talk about what parents can expect as their teen transitions to college. From the emotional rollercoaster of move-in day to mid-semester meltdowns, we explore how to support your student without overstepping.

We cover:

• What the “invisible fifth class” really is
• How to foster independence and resilience
• What to do when they want to transfer two weeks in
• How parenting evolves sophomore year and beyond

Whether your teen is heading off for the first time or still finding their way, this episode is full of real talk and reassuring perspective.

🎧 Listen now and share with a fellow college parent!

Resources

• Learn more about Dr. Wilcox
• Read this related blog post: Parenting with College Kids

About Kelly 

In her role as the Dean of Student Success at Haverford College, Kelly strives to foster advising relationships that feel accessible, welcoming, personalized, and meaningful. As an undergraduate she studied Political Science and International Relations at Swarthmore College, with a focus on East Asian Studies. She completed her Master's in Psychological Services at the University of Pennsylvania, as well as her Doctorate in Higher Education Administration.  She is also a certified Life Coach, ADHD Coach and Health Coach.

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this powerful conversation, Sam and Melissa welcome Dr. Katie Lawliss—a licensed psychologist specializing in chronic illness and ADHD, who also lives with cystic fibrosis. Katie shares her personal journey from childhood diagnosis to becoming a health psychologist, revealing how chronic illness shaped her identity and sparked her passion for normalizing mental health care in this community. Together, they explore the unique challenges parents face when their bodies don’t cooperate: navigating fatigue and “brain fog,” coping with the unpredictability of flare-ups, and maintaining presence and connection with their children.

About Katie
Dr. Katie Lawliss is a clinical psychologist specializing in chronic illness, trauma, and ADHD. As both a therapist and a person living with a chronic illness, she brings personal insight and professional expertise to the challenges of navigating caregiving while managing health. Katie is passionate about helping others feel seen, supported, and empowered to create meaningful lives even when things feel uncertain or hard.

Resources

• Episode 25 – Shots, Swabs & Stress: Helping Kids Cope with Medical Anxiety with Dr. Missy Hendricks
   Listen on Parenting Shrink Wrapped
• Connect with Dr. Katie Lawliss
  Website: www.drkatielawliss.com

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

We’ve all had moments where a messy room or a missed assignment feels like the end of the world—and we explode. But is it really about that sock on the floor... or something deeper?

In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Sam and Melissa explore the moments when we, as parents, “flip our lids” over something small—only to realize it was connected to big fears, old baggage, or past patterns. Sam shares her powerful Sky Mind metaphor as a way to get grounded and stay present, even in the chaos.

🎙 What you’ll hear:

• Why we lose it over the little things—and what’s really going on beneath the surface
• How past regret and future fear hijack our nervous system
• A simple but powerful metaphor: Sky Mind vs. Storm Mind
• Eckhart Tolle’s three states of intentional action: acceptance, enjoyment, and enthusiasm
• How to pause and reconnect before reacting
• Why asking “What does this moment need from me?” can change everything

💡 Resources:

• 🎧 Episode 14: The Power of Mindful Parenting
• 🎧 Episode 29: Trauma Doesn't Have to Define Your Parenting
• 🎧 Episode 30: Trauma Is Real, Healing Is Possible: Understanding ACEs and Resilience with Laura Reagan
• 📘 A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle → Buy on Amazon

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This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

Is your kid constantly in motion? Refuses to wear socks? Melts down over tags in their shirts? You’re not alone—and you’re not imagining it.

In this eye-opening episode, Sam and Melissa sit down with occupational therapist and mom of three, Samantha Hyali, owner of Children at Play in Annapolis, to pull back the curtain on what occupational therapy actually is—and why more parents should know about it.

Whether you’ve heard the term OT tossed around but never understood it, or you’re deep in the parenting trenches trying to help your sensory-sensitive child thrive, this conversation is packed with aha moments, real-world examples, and strategies for supporting your child’s nervous system from the inside out.

What You’ll Learn:

• What “occupational therapy” really means (spoiler: it’s not about jobs)
• Signs your child might benefit from OT—and how to tell the difference between “can’t” vs “won’t”
• Why core strength matters more than you think for focus and behavior
• How OT helps kids with sensory sensitivities (like clothing textures or noise)
• The magic of “just-right” challenges—and how play becomes the pathway to regulation
• What therapy looks like for toddlers vs preteens and teens (yes, even your 14-year-old can benefit!)
• How OT supports both kids and parents—because parent coaching is part of the process too

Resources:

• Episode 19 – Raising Kids on the Autism Spectrum with Dr. Taylor Day
• Children at Play, Annapolis on Facebook
• Follow Samantha Hyali on Instagram @childrenatplayannapolis
• Learn more about free consultations and services at Children at Play

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This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In Part 2 of our ADHD series, Sam Straub, LCPC, and Dr. Melissa Wellner, MD, dive deeper into the lived experience of parenting—and being—a kid with ADHD. This episode moves beyond the textbook and into real family dynamics: the misunderstandings, the emotional toll, the parenting pitfalls, and the opportunities for growth (yes, even when there’s an ice cream bowl in the sink. Again.).

If you’ve ever been tempted to call your kid “lazy,” wonder why reward charts don’t work, or question whether you’re failing as a parent because things feel so hard—this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why “lazy” is the most damaging (and inaccurate) label we give ADHD kids
• The connection between ADHD, anxiety, and depression—and what often gets missed
• How to use structure without relying on complicated reward systems
• Why weekends off ADHD meds may not be working for your family
• Executive function delays—and how to support them without nagging
• What ADHD kids really want their adults to understand
• The importance of celebrating effort, not just achievement
• And how raising a child with ADHD might just be sculpting you, too

Resources & Mentions:

• ADHD Part 1: Superpowers, Symptoms, and the Stuff Nobody Talks About

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This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this insightful episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, hosts Sam Straub and Melissa Wellner dig into the many dimensions of ADHD—busting myths, exploring emotional highs and lows, and celebrating the often-overlooked strengths that come with it.

They unpack what ADHD really looks like (spoiler alert: it’s not just about being “distracted”), highlight the emotional rollercoaster that many families experience, and share practical ways parents can better support their children—and themselves—through it all.

Whether you're parenting a child with ADHD, navigating your own symptoms, or just trying to understand the condition more deeply, this episode is full of honest, heart-centered insight.

Takeaways:

• ADHD is a spectrum that involves more than just inattention—emotional dysregulation and time blindness are often at play.
• The term “ADHD” can be misleading; many kids can focus—but only on what grabs their interest.
• ADHD brains are wired for creativity, humor, and out-of-the-box problem solving—these are real strengths, not just quirks.
• Empathy and tailored strategies are essential for parents to support children (and themselves) living with ADHD.

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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this powerful episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Sam and Melissa sit down with Laura Reagan—somatically oriented trauma therapist, founder of the Trauma Therapist Network, and host of the widely acclaimed podcast Therapy Chat (over 8 million downloads!).

Together, they explore how trauma shows up in childhood and parenthood, how it hides in plain sight in the form of chronic stress responses, and why healing is not only possible—but essential.

Whether you’re a parent, a professional, or a human who’s ever had a hard thing happen (so… all of us), this conversation offers compassion, education, and hope.

About Laura
Laura Reagan, LCSW-C is an integrative and somatically oriented trauma therapist based in the greater Baltimore area. She is the owner of a trauma-focused group psychotherapy practice called The Baltimore Annapolis Center for Integrative Healing which serves teens and adults. Laura is also the host of a top-rated podcast, Therapy Chat, which has more than 8 million downloads, and its sister show, Trauma Chat. She founded Trauma Therapist Network, a website platform for learning about trauma and finding a trauma therapist, in 2021. As a trauma survivor, Laura is passionate about spreading the message that trauma is real, healing is possible and help is available. 

Resources
Laura's podcasts and all the resources of Trauma Therapist Network are found at: http://www.traumatherapistnetwork.com/.

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This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrap, Sam Straub and Dr. Melissa Wellner engage with Kristen Keuleman, a licensed professional counselor specializing in trauma therapy, particularly EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). They explore the nature of trauma, its impact on parenting, and how EMDR can help individuals process traumatic memories. Kristen shares her journey into counseling, the mechanisms of EMDR, and its effectiveness in treating both adults and children. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding trauma beyond just significant life events and highlights the therapeutic process of EMDR in fostering healing and resilience.

About Kristen

Kristen Keuleman is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor working in private practice in Annapolis.  Kristen has experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, low self-esteem, adjustment to life transitions, parenting issues and other family-related concerns. Kristen approaches working with clients from a Strengths-Based perspective, fostering client’s natural ability to heal themselves. In this effort, she integrates a variety of evidence-based practices including Cognitive Behavioral therapy & Acceptance and Commitment therapy. Kristen is also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) to help clients process and heal from trauma in order to thrive.  As a midlife career changer and lifelong learner, Kristen believes it’s never too late to grow and transform.  

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This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this heart-opening episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Dr. Melissa Wellner and Sam Straub sit down with two thoughtful dads, Charles Parmele and Bryan Levy, for a conversation that’s equal parts real talk and reflection. Together, they dig into what it means to be a father in today’s world—from the pressure to “have it all together” to the power of being vulnerable.

The discussion goes deep into topics like equitable parenting, emotional health, and the need for strong dad-to-dad support systems. You'll hear about the importance of open communication, navigating grief as a parent, and how redefining masculinity can lead to more meaningful relationships and healthier families.

Whether you're a dad, parenting alongside one, or just curious about the changing landscape of modern fatherhood, this episode offers rich insight and a reminder that connection and authenticity are key.

About Chip and Bryan

Chip heads up a blended family, raising 4 children in total. As a pediatrician he's also had the privilege of caring for thousands of families, in the process seeing what tends to work. Bryan has 3 children, one of whom was a special-needs child, one of whom was adopted. Together we have navigated many of family life’s biggest adventures: birth, death, marriage, divorce, special needs children, tornadoes, and boating in hurricanes to name a few. We've learned a thing or two along the way, and later this year we'll roll out our new podcast, GOOD HOOLIGANS, to help real parents with our insights and humor.

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This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

Feeling crispy-fried by May? You’re not alone. In this short and real-talk episode, Sam and Melissa break down why everyone’s burnt out—from teachers to teens to you—and how to make it to summer without losing your mind.

We cover:

• End-of-year burnout (it’s not just “senioritis”)
• Helping teens through finals without melting down
• Low-lift summer ideas (Alphabet Summer, anyone?)
• How to avoid the screen-time vortex
• Why it’s okay to phone it in (really)

Set the bar low, pour the cereal, and join us for a dose of perspective and permission to do less.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

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This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this eye-opening episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Dr. Melissa Wellner and Sam Straub welcome psychiatrist Dr. Milena Smith to talk about the emotional and mental health impacts of hormonal changes—from the postpartum period to perimenopause and beyond. Dr. Smith, an expert in reproductive psychiatry, breaks down how hormonal transitions can trigger mood and anxiety symptoms, what signs to watch for, and how to get help that actually works.

They discuss the realities of postpartum depression (including in dads!), why perimenopause can feel like an emotional rollercoaster, and how medications like SSRIs help increase neuroplasticity and create space for healing. With practical tips, personal stories, and science-backed insight, this episode is a must-listen for any parent navigating—or anticipating—a hormonally charged life phase.

About Milena

Dr. Smith attended medical school at UCSF, then completed her psychiatry residency at The Johns Hopkins Hospital, where she remains a part-time Instructor. Dr. Smith specializes in reproductive psychiatry, treating women with mood and anxiety disorders at times of hormonal change such as during and after pregnancy, premenstrually and through perimenopause. 

Connect with Milena

Website: https://milenasmithmd.clientsecure.me/

Resources mentioned in the episode

Postpartum Support International 
womensmentalhealth.org 

The Menopause Society

Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts: Book rec from Dr. Smith

What No One Tells You: A Guide to Your Emotions from Pregnancy to Motherhood: Book rec from Dr. Smith

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This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

Why does your usually sweet kid turn into a full-blown meltdown in the doctor’s office? In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Melissa and Sam talk with pediatric health psychologist Dr. Missy Hendricks about how to help kids manage anxiety around medical visits—from vaccines and blood draws to chronic illness and everyday checkups.

Dr. Missy shares her expertise on how to prepare kids for tough medical moments, the power of validation and honesty, and how to build coping skills that can serve them not just in the clinic—but in life. She also explains how to support older kids living with long-term health conditions, and why helping them feel seen often leads to better self-care and resilience.

Whether you're navigating your toddler’s first shots or supporting a teen through chronic illness, this episode is packed with practical tools, deep insight, and a whole lot of heart.

About Missy

Dr. Hendricks is a pediatric health psychologist with over 20-years of specialized experience, and she is owner of Cornerstone Health & Wellness, which is a private practice in AA county that offers specialized behavioral and health psychology services for individuals and families who face medical conditions, health concerns, or injury. Before transitioning to private practice, Dr. Hendricks spent 10-years at the Kennedy Krieger Institute and Johns Hopkins School of Medicine where she was the director of interdisciplinary clinic development and consultation-liaison psychology services to medical subspecialties, and was heavily involved in interdisciplinary care, research, and the the  training of future pediatric health psychologists.

Connect with Missy

Website: www.cstonehealth.com

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This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this deeply personal episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Melissa and Sam explore what it means to parent your own children while still navigating the lifelong role of being someone’s child. From generational expectations and emotional triggers to unresolved childhood wounds and the pressure to “do it better,” this conversation sheds light on the complex web of relationships many of us are trying to untangle in midlife.

Sam shares a moving story about her evolving relationship with her late mother—and how an unexpected visit to a psychic offered her peace, perspective, and even a little healing. Melissa opens up about the academic pressure she felt growing up and how it shaped her own parenting philosophy today. Together, they reflect on how old dynamics resurface when you're in the thick of raising kids—and why making space to process your own story can help you show up more fully for theirs.

Whether you're juggling parenting, caretaking, or simply trying to break old cycles, this episode will leave you feeling seen.

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This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

What if sports weren’t just about winning—but about raising resilient, self-aware, and confident kids? In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Melissa and Sam sit down with Courtney Parfitt, founder of Thrive Gym in Annapolis, to explore how youth sports can become powerful spaces for growth, failure, leadership, and self-discovery.

Courtney shares how parents and coaches can support—not sabotage—the athlete experience, and why things like emotional regulation, goal alignment, and even silence from the sidelines matter more than medals. Whether your child is a toddler in tumbling or a teen in competitive athletics, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating the delicate balance between support and pressure in sports parenting.

About Courtney

Courtney Parfitt is the owner of Thrive Gym, a company that operates children's activity centers offering gymnastics, tumbling, ninja, team sports, and camps to families in the Greater Annapolis community. Courtney has grown her business with the mission of teaching  'Life Lessons Through Sport'. She strives to provide everyone who interacts with her business - customer, employee, and student alike - with a space where they can connect, belong and be inspired. Courtney lives in Arnold, MD and has two children. In her spare time you can find her running, reading and hanging out with friends. 

Connect with Courtney

Website: www.thrivegym.org

Instagram: @thrivegymmd

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This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, Dr. Melissa Wellner and co-host Sam Straub tackle three of the most common and harmful myths they hear from parents about kids and mental health. From the idea that “teens are just moody” to the belief that “my kid would tell me if something was wrong,” Melissa and Sam break down why these myths persist—and what parents can do instead.

They also take on one of the biggest fears in child psychiatry: the myth that medication will change a child’s personality. Through clinical insight, personal experience, and compassion, this episode offers a clear-eyed, practical approach to supporting your child’s mental health at any age.

If you’ve ever second-guessed whether your child is truly okay, this conversation will help you feel informed, empowered, and less alone.

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This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Melissa and Sam are joined by Maria Alessandri—mom of five, natural horsemanship coach, and founder of the Horse and People Project. Maria shares how training rescue horses taught her profound lessons about parenting, presence, boundaries, and communication.

From teenage pushback to tattoo negotiations, Maria reveals how showing up with intention and releasing pressure can transform the way we connect with our kids. Through powerful stories—both in the horse ring and at home—she reminds us that what we bring to a relationship, energetically and emotionally, matters more than what we say.

Whether you’re feeling unheard, struggling with boundaries, or just craving a more connected way to parent, this episode is full of wisdom (and a few laughs) to guide you back to what matters most: the relationship.

About Maria

With over 20 years of experience in corporate project management, Maria combines her business expertise with a deep passion for personal growth. As a mom of five, Maria has a unique perspective on balancing family, career, and personal development. A knowledgeable horse enthusiast, Maria founded the Horse and People Project, an initiative that partners horses with individuals to foster self-awareness and personal development, especially with regards to parenting. Her work is rooted in self-help principles, empowering others to find clarity and growth through connection with horses.

Connect with Maria

Website: https://www.horseandpeopleproject.com/

Instagram: @horseandpeopleproject

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064009806562

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

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This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Dr. Melissa Wellner and co-host Sam Straub sit down with special guest Vanessa Kellner, a registered play therapist and founder of Wholesome Healing in Severna Park, Maryland. Together, they explore the true nature of play therapy—how it offers children a language beyond words to process deep emotions and experiences. Vanessa breaks down how play therapy works, why it’s far more than “just play,” and shares fascinating insights on how children express anxiety, trauma, and healing through toys, art, and imaginative worlds. 

Whether you're a curious parent or a professional working with kids, this episode offers a warm, eye-opening look at how play becomes a powerful path to connection and transformation.

About Vanessa

Vanessa Kellner is a licensed clinical counselor and the owner of Wholesome Healing, a private practice specializing in Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT), located in Severna Park, MD. She is an author, play therapist and play therapist supervisor, credentialed as a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor (RPT-S) through the Association for Play Therapy (APT), and certified as a Child-Centered Play Therapist (CCPT) through the University of North Texas Center for Play Therapy (UNT) and a Child-Centered Play Therapist Supervisor (CCPT-S) through the National Institute of Relationship Enhancement (NIRE). Vanessa was honored to receive the 2024 Play Therapist of the Year Award from the MD/DC Association for Play Therapy branch.

Connect with Vanessa

Website: https://www.wholesomehealingforall.com/

Facebook: Wholesome Healing

Instagram: @wholesomehealingmd

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This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

An autism diagnosis can feel overwhelming for families—but what if there was a better way to navigate it? In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Sam and Melissa sit down with Dr. Taylor Day (Dr. Tay), a licensed psychologist specializing in neuroaffirming care for autistic kids and their families.

Dr. Tay shares her personal journey of growing up with a younger brother on the spectrum, how that shaped her approach to autism care, and why she created her whole-family model to support not just autistic children, but their parents and siblings as well. They also discuss early signs of autism, common misconceptions, concerns about ABA therapy, and how to create affirming environments for neurodivergent kids.

If you’re a parent, teacher, or caregiver looking for a more compassionate, informed approach to autism support, this episode is packed with expert insights and practical strategies.

About Taylor

Dr. Taylor Day is a licensed psychologist specializing in neuroaffirming care for autistic children and their families, including very early diagnosis and early intervention. She has a Ph.D. in clinical psychology and is the CEO and founder of Dr. Tay Concierge Clinical Care. Her practice integrates The Whole Family Approach, a process she created utilizing evidence-informed principles after seeing a gap in autism care. Her passion for child psychology and her focus on autism is in many ways tied to her own personal experience growing up with a brother who was diagnosed at 23 months of age.

Connect with Taylor

Website: drtaylorday.com

Instagram: @the.dr.tay

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This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

Every new parent needs support—but what if we told you there's a whole profession dedicated to making birth and postpartum easier? In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Sam and Melissa sit down with Kimberly Marie Ferrol, pediatric sleep specialist, doula, and founder of Vela Haven, to talk about the vital role of doulas, sleep consultants, and postpartum care.

Kimberly shares why every family deserves a village, how doulas support parents beyond childbirth, and why sleep education is just as important as swaddles and pacifiers. She also dives into common misconceptions about doula work, the emotional challenges of new parenthood, and how postpartum support can make all the difference in preventing burnout, anxiety, and exhaustion.

If you’ve ever thought, I wish I had more help when my baby was born, or Why didn’t anyone prepare me for this?, this episode is for you.

About Kimberly

Kimberly Marie Ferrol is a Pediatric Sleep Specialist, Birth and Postpartum Doula, and the Founder of Vela Haven -Sleep Consulting & Maternal Services. She is also the author of My Pregnancy Haven, a pregnancy and postpartum interactive journal designed to support mothers through their journey. Passionate about education and family well-being, Kimberly founded the Academy of Pediatric Sleep Care to provide pediatric sleep training and resources for perinatal professionals. Through her work, she empowers families with the knowledge, confidence, and tools they need to navigate pregnancy, birth, and early parenthood with ease.

Connect with Kimberly

Website: www.velahaven.com

Instagram: @velahaven

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

Middle schoolers can test every parenting instinct, especially when their behavior at school doesn’t match the values you’ve worked so hard to teach them. In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Sam and Melissa respond to a listener’s concern about her 13-year-old son—who is smart, confident, and well-liked, but has been acting out and getting in trouble at school.

They dive into why middle schoolers struggle with impulse control, how brain development impacts decision-making, and why peer approval often overrides parental expectations. Sam and Melissa also discuss the "You Screwed Up" conversation framework, how to approach discipline with curiosity instead of shame, and why a single bad report doesn’t mean you’re raising a toxic kid.

If you’ve ever worried about your child's behavior or found yourself over-apologizing to teachers, this episode is for you.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

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This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

Divorce is never easy, but does it have to be a battle? In this episode, Dr. Melissa Wellner and Sam Straub sit down with family law attorney Val Anias to discuss how to navigate divorce in a way that minimizes conflict and prioritizes children’s well-being.

Val shares her expertise on co-parenting strategies, avoiding common legal pitfalls, and why putting kids first leads to better outcomes. She also introduces her collaborative divorce package, designed to help couples separate amicably—without spending a fortune on litigation.

If you're facing divorce or co-parenting challenges, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

About Val

Valerie E. Anias is owner and founder of A Team Family Law, LLC. Val brings compassion, understanding, and thoroughness to the table when taking on a case. She is passionate about assisting underrepresented individuals and advocates for her clients irrespective of their gender, race, sexual orientation, family status, etc. Whether the issue involves a child custody dispute, divorce, adoption, or creating your Estate Plan, Val’s approach provides her clients with top notch legal representation and ensures that her clients’ rights and voices are represented passionately and efficiently. 

Connect with Val

Website: www.ateamfamilylaw.com

IG: @ateamfamilylaw

Facebook: facebook.com/ateamfamilylaw

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/valerie-e-anias-esq-bb162a32/

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This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

When we think of play, we often think of children—but what if play is just as essential for adults? In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Melissa and Sam sit down with TJ Matton, a psychotherapist and coach specializing in developmental trauma and play for adults. They explore how play is a biological necessity, not just a pastime, and how reintroducing play into our lives can improve mental health, flexibility, and even parenting.

TJ also breaks down different play styles, why some adults struggle with play, and how trauma and societal expectations often lead us to abandon it. Plus, practical tips on how even the busiest parents can reconnect with play for a more joyful, balanced life.

About TJ

TJ Matton is a social worker, psychotherapist, and coach that specializes in developmental and relational trauma and how to integrate play back into adulthood. Play is a biological need across the lifespan that is chronically neglected in adulthood. TJ is helping adults integrate play into their mindfulness work and reclaim play because cause joy is awesome, important, and needed.

Connect with TJ

Website: theplayfulrevolution.com

IG: @theplayfulrevolution

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Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

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This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this episode, hosts Sam Straub and Dr. Melissa Wellner sit down with therapist and yoga teacher Ruth Milsten, LCSW-C, RYT, to explore the challenges and strengths of being a highly sensitive parent. Ruth shares insights on recognizing high sensitivity, understanding nervous system regulation, and using somatic therapy to move beyond overwhelm. Whether you're navigating overstimulation, parenting with past trauma, or simply seeking deeper self-understanding, this episode offers practical tools and empowering takeaways. Tune in for expert guidance, personal reflections, and strategies to parent with more calm, connection, and self-compassion.

About Ruth

Ruth Milsten, LCSW-C, RYT, is a licensed clinical social worker, registered yoga teacher, and somatic therapist specializing in working with highly sensitive individuals, particularly women and mothers. With extensive training in trauma-informed therapy, Imago relationship counseling, and polyvagal theory, Ruth helps clients understand and regulate their nervous systems to move beyond self-criticism and overwhelm. She integrates somatic movement, yoga, and sound healing in her practice, offering a holistic approach to mental wellness. Ruth sees clients at Perilla Wellness in Arnold, Maryland, and teaches workshops on somatic healing and self-regulation.

Connect with Ruth

Website: https://www.reclaimwellnesstherapy.com/

IG: @reclaimwellnesstherapy

Other resources mentioned in the episode:

Free HSP quiz by Dr. Elaine Aaron

The Highly Sensitive Parent-Dr. Elaine Aaron

Perilla Wellness, where Ruth practices

Annapolis Crystals

Deb Dana's nervous system info

Imago Relationship Therapy

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

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Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
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Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

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This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In a world filled with diet trends, wellness fads, and constant pressure around food and body image, how can we help our kids develop a healthy relationship with eating? In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Sam and Melissa sit down with registered dietitian nutritionist Jacqueline Stern to discuss intuitive eating, health at every size, and how parents can foster a positive food environment at home. Jacqueline shares insights on how to neutralize food, avoid harmful messaging, and support kids in listening to their own bodies. Whether you're concerned about diet culture, picky eating, or body image issues, this episode is packed with expert advice to help your family navigate it all.

About Jacquelyn

Jacquelyn Stern is a registered dietitian nutritionist who specializes in helping adults and children find peace with food and their bodies. She has over 30 years of experience helping people improve their health from a non-diet, intuitive eating lens. Her clients like how relatable and authentic she is and how this comes through in the one on one work they do together. Whether she is working with children or adults, she helps each person meet their goals with easy to follow suggestions and lots of compassion and care.

Connect with Jacquelyn

Instagram and Facbook: @annapolisnutrition

Website: www.annapolisnutrition.com

How to Raise an Intuitive Eater

Information on Division of Responsibility with Feeding

You know when your kid screws up in some way, and you're sure of the lesson you want them to learn from it....but you’re not sure how to say it in a way they’ll actually hear?  

Download Sam's free video guide that walks you through a simple, step-by-step process for handling these tough conversations called the L.O.V.E.D. framework.

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

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Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

Moving can be exciting, but it’s also a major transition that impacts the whole family—especially kids. In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Sam and Melissa share their personal experiences with recent moves—one planned, one unexpected—and dive into the emotional and logistical challenges families face during relocation. They discuss how children process big changes, common behavioral responses (like regression or resistance), and practical ways parents can support their kids before, during, and after a move. Whether your move is planned or sudden, this episode will help you create stability, manage stress, and guide your family through change with confidence.

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

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Sam – Instagram & Facebook
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Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

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This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this special pre-Valentine's Day episode, Melissa and Sam dive into the world of teen relationships, first love, and heartbreak. From deciphering modern dating lingo like “talking” to fostering open communication about healthy connections, this conversation is packed with insights for navigating these formative experiences. Melissa and Sam share personal stories, practical advice, and tips for creating a safe space where your teen feels comfortable discussing their relationships. Join us as we explore how to guide teens toward meaningful, safe, and fulfilling connections—just in time for Valentine’s Day!

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

Follow:
Sam – Instagram & Facebook
Melissa – Facebook

Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Dr. Melissa Wellner and Samantha Straub, parenting coach and therapist, tackle one of the most challenging aspects of parenting—effective discipline. They explore the key differences between discipline and punishment, emphasizing how discipline is about teaching and growth, while punishment often falls short in helping kids learn from their mistakes.

Melissa and Sam share practical frameworks for setting boundaries, including the importance of safety, values, skill-building, and maintaining a strong parent-child relationship. They also discuss how to let natural consequences play out and why this approach fosters resilience and responsibility in children. Whether you’re dealing with toddlers or teens, this episode offers compassionate, realistic strategies for managing discipline in a way that helps your child grow and thrive.

Tune in for tips on reinforcing positive behavior and setting rules that work for the unique needs of your family!

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

Follow:
Sam – Instagram & Facebook
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Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Dr. Melissa Wellner and Samantha Straub dive into an essential and often overwhelming topic for many parents: how to access mental health care for your child. Building on their previous discussion about anxiety, they explore the different layers of the mental health care system and explain the key differences between various professionals, including pediatricians, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, counselors, social workers, and psychologists.

Melissa and Sam offer practical advice on how to navigate finding the right therapist or prescriber, discussing factors such as insurance networks, cost differences, and whether to consider in-person or telehealth options. They also share insights into the importance of finding the right "fit" with a mental health professional and why it’s crucial for effective treatment.

Whether you’re searching for the right help for your child or simply want to understand the mental health landscape better, this episode provides compassionate, real-world strategies for getting the care your family needs.

Questions or Topic Requests? Comment on one of our posts or email parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Follow along with us:

Sam's Instagram
Melissa's FaceBook

Work with Us:

Teen Savvy Coaching, Sam's coaching business for parents of teens and tweens.
Website
Facebook
Instagram

Download Sam's free e-book: Beyond Nagging: Empowering Parents to Transform Teen Homework Headaches  https://mailchi.mp/teensavvycoaching/beyondnagginghomeworkhelp

Annapolis Psychiatry, Dr. Melissa's private practice:

Website
Facebook

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

Follow:
Sam – Instagram & Facebook
Melissa – Facebook

Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, hosts Dr. Melissa Wellner, a double board-certified psychiatrist, and Samantha Straub, a licensed clinical counselor and parenting coach, tackle the increasingly relevant topic of child and adolescent anxiety. With both professional insights and real-world experience, Melissa and Sam break down the nuances of anxiety, from understanding normal reactions to recognizing when it crosses into clinical territory.

They explore the rise in anxiety disorders, highlighting how societal changes, such as the introduction of smartphones and social media, have impacted today’s youth. The episode offers practical strategies for parents, discussing how to distinguish between common worries and signs that indicate a need for professional intervention. They also touch on how anxiety can manifest differently across age groups, along with tips on fostering resilience and managing anxious reactions within the family.

Listeners will walk away with valuable tools for supporting their children, from managing panic attacks to reducing parental accommodation of anxious behaviors. Join Melissa and Sam as they demystify anxiety in kids and provide compassionate guidance for navigating this common challenge in modern parenting.

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

Follow:
Sam – Instagram & Facebook
Melissa – Facebook

Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Sam and Melissa dive into the essential yet often overlooked topic of self-care for parents. Juggling work, family, and daily life can make it feel impossible to prioritize yourself, but Sam and Melissa break down why taking care of your own needs is crucial—not just for you, but for your kids too. They share their own self-care routines, from figure skating and swimming to simply taking a few quiet minutes outdoors, and explore how making small changes can lead to big impacts in overall well-being.

Whether you’re struggling to find time for yourself or looking for simple self-care ideas that fit into a busy schedule, this episode offers practical tips and mindset shifts to help you carve out moments for yourself without the guilt. Join the conversation on how self-care is not just a luxury, but a foundation for resilient and healthy parenting.

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

Follow:
Sam – Instagram & Facebook
Melissa – Facebook

Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

Nothing tries your patience or pulls on your heartstrings like being a parent!  In this episode, Dr. Melissa Wellner and Samantha Straub focus on the critical topic of distress management for both parents and children! They explore practical strategies to help parents navigate their own discomfort and support their children through challenging emotions. By sharing personal anecdotes and professional insights, they highlight the importance of teaching kids how to cope with stress, manage anxiety, and develop resilience in the face of life's inevitable difficulties!

The episode emphasizes the value of modeling healthy distress tolerance and providing children with the tools they need to handle tough situations. Whether it's through practicing public speaking, physical exercise, or simply sitting with uncomfortable feelings, Melissa and Sam offer actionable advice that can make a significant difference in a child's emotional development. Tune in to learn how to better equip your family for the ups and downs of life, and discover why managing distress is a key component of successful parenting!

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

Follow:
Sam – Instagram & Facebook
Melissa – Facebook

Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Sam and Melissa dive into one of the most common questions they hear: “How do I know if my child is ready for a phone?” They tackle this complex decision from multiple angles, covering everything from emotional maturity and social dynamics to practical concerns like device responsibility and parental controls.

With relatable stories and expert insights, Sam and Melissa explore how technology, social media, and peer pressure impact young adolescents today. They share practical advice for assessing your child’s readiness, setting healthy boundaries, and fostering open communication around technology use. Whether your child is begging for their first smartphone or you’re trying to manage their existing access, this episode is full of tips and considerations to help you make informed decisions for your family.

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

Follow:
Sam – Instagram & Facebook
Melissa – Facebook

Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

Today, Melissa and Sam explore the challenges and rewards of being a working parent. From managing career demands to fostering strong attachments with your children, they share relatable stories, practical advice, and thoughtful reflections on finding balance.

Sam also highlights lessons from her recent book chapter  on how parenting skills can enhance success in the workplace. Whether you work in or out of the home, this episode offers support and encouragement for navigating the complexities of modern parenting.

Resources mentioned:

"Nurturing Kids and Career: The Motherhood Advantage in Business Leadership", chapter 5 of We Lead: Building Connection, Community and Collaboration for Women in Business, Volume 2

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

Follow:
Sam – Instagram & Facebook
Melissa – Facebook

Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

What happens when the magic of childhood shifts and your kids stop believing in Santa, the Tooth Fairy, or the Easter Bunny? In this heartwarming and practical episode, Sam Straub and Melissa Wellner tackle the bittersweet moment when logic replaces wonder. They share personal stories, expert advice, and creative strategies for handling the transition with honesty, grace, and fun.

Discover how to bring older kids into the "magic-making club," keep holiday traditions alive, and navigate tricky conversations about belief—without spoiling the joy for younger siblings. Whether you're dreading this moment or already facing it, this episode offers tools to make the transition meaningful and keep the holidays magical for everyone.

Enjoyed the conversation? Subscribe and share Parenting Shrinkwrapped with a friend who could use some parenting wisdom and a dose of holiday spirit!

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

Follow:
Sam – Instagram & Facebook
Melissa – Facebook

Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this episode, Melissa and Sam dive into the complexities of holiday stress—from dry turkeys to unrealistic expectations. Together, they explore how to embrace the perfectly imperfect moments, find joy amidst the chaos, and let go of societal pressures for Hallmark-perfect celebrations. Hear relatable stories, laugh at honest confessions (like ordering double the gravy), and discover practical ways to focus on what truly matters: creating meaningful memories. Whether it’s navigating financial pressures, managing gift-giving, or balancing traditions, this episode offers heartfelt advice to help you and your family thrive during the holiday season.

Tune in for a fun, honest, and encouraging conversation about making the holidays enjoyable on your own terms. 🎄

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

Follow:
Sam – Instagram & Facebook
Melissa – Facebook

Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care. 

In this inaugural episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, hosts Dr. Melissa Wellner, a double board-certified psychiatrist and child and adolescent psychiatrist, and Samantha Straub, a licensed clinical counselor and parenting coach, dive into the foundational topic of parenting styles. With a lively mix of professional expertise and personal experience as mothers, they explore the three main parenting styles—authoritarian, permissive, and authoritative—and discuss their pros, cons, and long-term effects on children. Throughout the episode, they share practical tips and relatable anecdotes, emphasizing the challenges and complexities of finding the right balance in parenting.

Listeners are invited to join Melissa and Sam on this journey as they aim to provide support, humor, and realistic strategies for navigating parenthood. From understanding how stress influences parenting approaches to finding the "just right" authoritative style, this episode sets the stage for a podcast series that blends wisdom with the messiness of everyday life, all while offering compassionate conversations for parents striving to raise healthy, thriving children! 

Get expert support, fresh strategies, and a judgment-free parent community—so you can stop feeling stuck and start parenting your teen with more clarity, confidence, and connection.

Contact: parentingshrinkwrapped@gmail.com

Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to Parenting Shrink Wrapped for the latest episodes.

Follow:
Sam – Instagram & Facebook
Melissa – Facebook

Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry

Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.

Listen & Review: Follow on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care.