Edge of the Nest: Recent Episodes

Cassie Wilcox & Erica Scheifflee

This is a podcast hosted by two pediatric therapists who are dedicated to the continual growth of ourselves and others (e.g., significant others, children, clients, friends, family members). Here we talk about our own personal and professional experiences as it relates to physical and emotional wellness, optimal child development, and personal growth as a lifelong journey. Our discussions are vulnerable, authentic, practical, and illustrate the importance of community. *Stay connected!* Reach out to us at edgeofthenest@gmail.com to: (1) Subscribe to our email list, (2) Ask questions, and (3) Share requests for future episodes.

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Does your child struggle with handwriting? What about writing composition in general? Writing is a highly integrative process with many factors to consider. Challenges with writing skills can be confusing and complicated, leaving a child and/or family with no clear direction to take other than to “try harder” or opt-out of traditional writing practices altogether. But what if we could pinpoint the unique needs of a child to help their writing skills flourish?

In this episode, Teresa Nair joins Cassie and Erica for the final episode in our 6-part series. In less than an hour, you’ll learn about the many layers of writing skills and what we can do to support our children who struggle. Join us to and learn about:

  • The elements of writing skills:
    • Communication
      • Social-emotional components that are embedded
    • Regulatory
    • Executive Function
      • Bilateral integration
      • Working memory
      • Sequencing
    • Mechanical components
      • Fine motor
      • Visual motor
      • Hand-eye coordination
      • Postural/core factors
      • Bilateral motor coordination
    • …just to name a few!
  • Considerations and/or intervention approaches to reduce writing struggling, including but not limited to:
    • Asking “what does this assignment really need?”
    • Vision therapy/Developmental Optometry
    • Sensory Integration Therapy
    • Phonological Awareness intervention
    • Executive Function coaching
    • Quick tips and tricks that you can start with today

*Resources*

  • Wieder, S & Wachs, H (2012) .Visual/Spatial Portals to Thinking, Feeling and Movement: Advancing Competencies and Emotional Development in Children with Learning and Autism Spectrum Disorders. https://a.co/d/efBmZ5R
  • Home of DIRFloorTime®: Radio Shows. https://www.icdl.com/parents/webradio/visual-spacial-processing-and-thinking

*Contact Teresa*

  • Title: Education Advisor and Speaker
  • Email: teresa@reel2e.org
  • Social: LinkedIn Profile

*Erica’s NEW website***

  • https://feedingconsciousrelationships.com/

**Music credits****

Uppbeat (free for Creators!); https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/clear-sky; License code: GQGN7ICA9D8IDOUT

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“My child HATES school.”

“It’s like pulling teeth to get my child to school.”

“I literally can’t get my kid to go to school.”

If you’re facing school refusal issues in your home, you’re not alone. As the educational landscape simultaneously shifts and stagnates in the United States, increasing numbers of children struggle to engage in school and learning. What do we do about it? Listen to this episode to find out!

In this 5th episode of our 6-part series, Erica and Cassie once again join Teresa Nair to collectively unpack the foundational considerations for school refusal. This was only the beginning of the conversation! Listen to this episode to find out:

  • What is school refusal? What does it look like?
  • What is educational trauma?
  • How to address school refusal:
    • Early identifiers (e.g., “yellow flags”)
    • Becoming an investigator to address the root causes of school refusal
    • Acknowledging the developmental hierarchy that influences one’s ability to participate in school/academic activities
  • How to address the underlying factors (including but not limited to):
    • “Bottom-up” support to build resilience and adaptivity
    • Communicating with school staff in a productive and effective way. Being your child’s best advocate for their learning
    • Getting the support YOU need as a parent as you navigate this difficult experience
    • Empowering school staff to understand what YOUR child’s behavior communicates and what they’re really asking for
    • Helping parents and educators:
      • Align expectations
      • Not take the child’s behavior personally
      • Remain curious and maintain open communication for compassionate and collaborative problem-solving

We hope you join us as we discuss the normalization of non-traditional pathways and breaking free of a binary perspective on education for the sake of every child’s wellbeing.

And don’t forget to join us next month for our final episode in this 6-part series where we will unpack Writing Skills!

*Resources*

  • Pyramid of Potential: https://maximumpotential.org.uk/the-developmental-pyramid/

*Contact Teresa*

  • Title: Education Advisor and Speaker
  • Email: teresa@reel2e.org
  • Social: LinkedIn Profile

*Erica’s NEW website***

  • https://feedingconsciousrelationships.com/

**Music credits****

Uppbeat (free for Creators!); https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/clear-sky; License code: GQGN7ICA9D8IDOUT

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We’re circling back to a hot topic—Executive Function. This multi-layered set of skills is impacted by many building blocks of development, and challenges can present in a myriad of ways. As a continuation of our six-part series with Teresa Nair, in this episode you will hear about:

  • Descriptions of Executive Function from multiple perspectives
  • Nature and nurture contributions
  • The integrative and developmental pathways of executive function which includes:
    • Physical/sensory
    • Emotional
    • Experiential
    • Relational
  • How do challenges with executive function show up in daily life? Children, teens, or people in general may exhibit difficulties with:
    • Perspective-taking
    • “Compliance”
    • Emotional dysregulation
    • Disorganization
    • Inflexible thinking
    • Difficulty delaying gratification
    • “Bossy” behavior
    • And more!
  • What do parents do if they think their child has challenges with executive function?
    • First, know yourself as the parent. Then consider initial steps…
      • Start with research OR
      • Start looking for professional support by…
        • Talking with your pediatrician or another trusted professional you have a relationship with.
        • Asking your community, your friends. You’re not alone in this!
    • Be open to new ways of thinking such as:
      • “How do we connect the skills of where our child shines (e.g., video games) to the skills we desire our children to develop (e.g., cleaning their room)?
      • Identify areas where our kids are struggling and name it was a skill they have not mastered yet rather than a fault of theirs.

*Resources*

  • Dr. Ross Green’s “Kids to Well If They Can”
    • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jvzQQDfAL-Q
  • Related Episode from Edge of the Nest: “Praxis”
    • https://www.buzzsprout.com/1905380/episodes/12118331
  • Related Episode: “Understanding Executive Function (Praxis Part 2):
    • https://www.buzzsprout.com/1905380/12118331
  • Triune Brain Model:
    • https://self-reg.ca/the-triune-brain/
  • Pomodora Method:
    • https://www.todoist.com/productivity-methods/pomodoro-technique
    • https://www.asundergrad.pitt.edu/study-lab/study-skills-tools-resources/pomodoro-technique

*Contact Us***

  • Cassie Wilcox (www.thewishingwellot.com)
  • Erica Scheifflee (https://feedingconsciousrelationships.com/)
  • Teresa Nair (Title: Education Advisor and Speaker ; Email: teresa@reel2e.org ; Social: LinkedIn Profile )

**Music credits****

Uppbeat (free for Creators!); https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/clear-sky; License code: GQGN7ICA9D8IDOUT

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PDA is a concept still in its infancy in the United States. Otherwise known as Pathological Demand Avoidance, this behavior profile is often associated with autism and pervasively impacts a person’s ability to participate in meaningful everyday activities. The physiological experience becomes a powerful barrier—even in activities that a person wants to do. It’s not that a person won’t participate, it’s that they can’t. So how do we address PDA, and how do we make sure we are helping kids grow and develop all while honoring their “persistent demand for autonomy?” Join Erica, Cassie, and Teresa as we discuss:

  • How does PDA put a magnifying glass on what humanity overall needs?
  • The importance of asking ourselves why someone would have a pervasive or magnified need for autonomy.
  • How do we respond to the withdrawal, oppositional, or eruptive behaviors that a child exhibits as a “demand avoidant” reaction?
  • How do we begin communicating differently and foster “thrival”—not just survival— for PDA individuals?
  • The power of the “flow state.”

Next month we will cover the 4th episode in this 6-part series: Executive Function.

*Resources*

  • Kristy Forbes: https://www.kristyforbes.com.au/
  • Casey Ehrlich At Peace Parents: https://bio.site/atpeaceparents?
  • Related Episode from Edge of the Nest: “Compassionate Command” https://www.buzzsprout.com/1905380/episodes/11353565
  • Related Episode from Edge of the Nest: “Praxis” https://www.buzzsprout.com/1905380/episodes/12118331

*Contact Teresa*

  • Title: Education Advisor and Speaker
  • Email: teresa@reel2e.org
  • Social: LinkedIn Profile

*Erica’s NEW website***

  • https://feedingconsciousrelationships.com/

**Music credits****

Uppbeat (free for Creators!); https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/clear-sky; License code: GQGN7ICA9D8IDOUT

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Have you ever experienced anxiety? What about someone you know and love? Statistically speaking, very few people will live their entire life WITHOUT being touched by anxiety in some way. For such a small word, the topic is MASSIVE. And we're left with so many questions. Like...why do some people experience so much anxiety that it negatively impacts their lives? Is it something we must live with forever? Is it just our genetics? What can be done besides “talk therapy” and medication?

In this episode, we will begin to unpack the underlying factors that lead to anxiety which helps us understand what steps to take when we are experiencing dis-ease. Join Erica, Cassie, and Teresa and learn about:

  • What does anxiety look like across ages and individuals?
  • What is anxiety trying to signal to us?
  • Whole-person approaches that are available to us BEYOND medication or cognitive-behavioral therapy which includes:
    • Relational
    • Communication
    • Sensory
    • Gut, Diet
    • We are only scratching the surface in this episode!
  • And finally…how does SOME anxiety actually serve us?

It's time to take your power back. Anxiety does not have to rule you, your child, or your family. After all, “the opposite of anxiety is not calm—it’s trust” (Uniquely Human) and anxiety is the perceptual loss of the sense of security. You can find your way back to wholeness. We hope you will join us.

And don’t forget to check out next month’s episode where the three of us will discuss Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA).

*Resources*

  • Breaking Free of Child Anxiety and OCD: A Scientifically Proven Program for Parents by Eli R. Lebowitz (2021).
  • Uniquely Human by Barry Prizant: https://barryprizant.com/uniquely-human/
  • “Balance and Mental Health” blog post by Cassie Wilcox: https://www.thewishingwellot.com/blog/balance-and-mental-health
  • Related Training: “Balancing Behavior with Relational Attunement” by Erica Scheifflee. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hrKHk6Ok4J0
  • Related Episode from Edge of the Nest: “Compassionate Command” https://www.buzzsprout.com/1905380/episodes/11353565
  • Related Episode from Edge of the Nest: “Praxis” https://www.buzzsprout.com/1905380/episodes/12118331

*Contact Teresa*

  • teresa@reel2e.org

*Erica’s NEW website***

  • https://feedingconsciousrelationships.com/

**Music credits****

Uppbeat (free for Creators!); https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/clear-sky; License code: GQGN7ICA9D8IDOUT

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To kick off Season 4 of Edge of the Nest, Erica and Cassie are bringing back a popular guest—Teresa Nair. Thanks to our listeners who loved the "Neurodivergence and Twice Exceptionality" (Season 3; #31) episode, we’ve asked Teresa to join us for several thoughtfully chosen topics that hit close to home for many families—whether they have neurotypical OR neurodivergent children.

In this episode, our mini roundtable discussion is on Self-Regulation. We will discuss:

  • The umbrella term of Self-Regulation and what it all entails.
  • The developmental aspects of self-regulation: Understanding how we transition from co-regulation to self-regulation and the general time frames in which we see these play out in childhood.
  • The hierarchical aspects of self-regulation:
    • Beginning with body awareness
    • Building into emotional identification/self-knowing
    • Connecting our internal experience to the current situation (contextual meaning)
    • Creating an “adaptive response” to set us up for success
  • A Parent’s Guide to supporting regulation in your child:
    • What NOT to do
    • Becoming an interpreter of behaviors
    • The process of joint problem-solving
    • How taking care of ourselves as adults/parents leads to more regulated children
    • Becoming the safe place for our children to practice and home in on their self-regulation skills.

Join us for our next episode where the three of us will discuss Anxiety.

*Resources*

  • Dr. Stuart Shanker
    • https://self-reg.ca/
    • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hOlV_kNYAYA
    • https://shop.self-reg.ca/products/reframed-self-reg-for-a-just-society
  • Debbie Steinberg Kunz of Bright and Quirky
    • https://brightandquirky.com/about/
  • Debbie Reber of TiLT Parenting
    • https://tiltparenting.com/about/
    • Differently Wired: A Parent’s Guide… (https://tiltparenting.com/differently-wired-book-2/)
  • The Yes Brain: How to Cultivate Courage, Curiosity, and Resilience in Your Child by Dan Siegel, M.D., and Tina Payne Bryson, Ph.D. (https://drdansiegel.com/book/the-yes-brain/)

*Contact Teresa*

  • teresa@reel2e.org

*Music credits***

Uppbeat (free for Creators!); https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/clear-sky; License code: GQGN7ICA9D8IDOUT

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We're about to kick off our fourth season here at Edge of the Nest, and we're doing things a little differently this time around. For Season 4, we are bringing back Teresa Nair to have mini roundtable talks around:

  1. Self-Regulation
  2. Anxiety
  3. PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance)
  4. Executive Function
  5. School Refusal
  6. Writing Skills

And if you have any additional topic requests, we would love for you to email us! Some of our favorite past episodes have been inspired by listener requests. You can email at edgeofthenest@gmail.com.

Join us next month as we kick-off Self-Regulation as the first episode in this series.

*Music credits***

Uppbeat (free for Creators!); https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/clear-sky; License code: GQGN7ICA9D8IDOUT

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Did you know that “rough and tumble play” is associated with greater motor, cognitive, and emotional development in children? But it goes way beyond play wrestling!

Join Erica and Cassie to hear about all things rough and tumble. We will cover:

  • What are the benefits of rough and tumble play?
  • What constitutes rough and tumble play?
  • What if I don’t want to or can’t wrestle with my kids?
  • How do I keep myself and my child safe during rough and tumble play?

*Resources*

  • The Art of Roughhousing: Good Old-Fashioned Horseplay and Why Every Kid Needs It by Anthony T. DeBenedet, M.D. and Lawrence J. Cohen, PhD (2011).
  • Smith, P. K., & StGeorge, J. M. (2022). Play fighting (rough-and-tumble play) in children: developmental and evolutionary perspectives. International Journal of Play, 12(1), 113–126. https://doi.org/10.1080/21594937.2022.2152185
  • Pellis, S. M., & Pellis, V. C. (2007). Rough-and-Tumble Play and the Development of the Social Brain. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 16(2), 95-98. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-8721.2007.00483.x
  • Carlson, F.M. (2011). Rough Play: One of the Most Challenging Behaviors. https://www.bgnelson.com/workshops/BBGG_Canada/BigBody&ActivePlay.pdf

*Music credits***

Uppbeat (free for Creators!); https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/clear-sky; License code: GQGN7ICA9D8IDOUT

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Does your child struggle in school? Maybe academics are the challenge. Perhaps their difficulties are more related to the social or emotional aspects of school. Does your child have a diagnosis such as dyslexia, ADHD, autism, dysgraphia, etc? Do sensory processing challenges impact your child’s success? If any of these ring true, this episode is here to empower YOU.

Join Erica and Cassie as we chat with our special guest, Teresa Nair. Teresa helps families navigate the complex journey of neurodiversity—including but not limited to those who are twice exceptional. You’ll hear about Teresa’s path from Silicon Valley to public and private education. In this jam-packed episode, we discuss:

  • What is 2e (twice exceptional)? How do we know if our child is 2e?
  • The power of utilizing a strength-based paradigm to support neurodivergent education and shifting away from focusing only on one’s deficits.
  • The gifts that come with being neurodivergent. The important role neurodivergent people play in making sure our societal “tribe” thrives.
  • Addressing the question, “What happens when the ‘traditional ways’ of child-rearing and educating are not working?” Teresa provides insight to help us stop “the continuation of struggle” and instead become curious, ask questions, find community, and explore different opportunities.

If your family faces challenges with education, you don’t have to accept your current reality if it doesn’t feel right. There are options, and this episode serves as a stepping stone onto your new path.

*Resources*

  • https://www.reel2e.org/
  • Books by Dr. Thomas Armstrong: https://www.institute4learning.com/book-table/
  • ADHD 2.0 by Dr. Hallowell and Dr. Ratey: https://drhallowell.com/read/books-by-ned/
  • Ross Green’s work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jvzQQDfAL-Q
  • Uniquely Human by Barry Prizant: https://barryprizant.com/uniquely-human/

*Contact Teresa*

  • Teresa@reel2e.org

*Music credits***

Uppbeat (free for Creators!); https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/clear-sky; License code: GQGN7ICA9D8IDOUT

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Picky eating is a HUGE challenge that many parents face. Whether your child eats 5 or 20 foods, if mealtime is a source of stress in your household, this episode is for you. Join Erica and Cassie as they discuss:

  • The power in APPROACHING food and asking “How Can I” support child-food interactions.
  • Why starting with eating is NOT usually the best choice.
  • The nuances of the child-food relationship.
  • The many root causes of picky eating:
    • Sensory
    • Motor
    • Psycho-social-emotional
    • Nutrient deficiencies
  • Practical tips for you to try at home with your child.

*Resources*

Romeo Eats (YouTube Channel for kids): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4wo2ym_a8bNaN3R8jofHaw

Lori Overland: https://talktools.com/products/feeding-book

Dr. Kay Toomey: https://sosapproachtofeeding.com/start-here-parents/

Ellyn Satter: https://www.ellynsatterinstitute.org/

*Music credits***

Uppbeat (free for Creators!); https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/clear-sky; License code: GQGN7ICA9D8IDOUT

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Have you ever thought, “I’m doing all of the right things, so why am I still [insert your life obstacle here]?”

In the self-development world, we’ve been told we have the power to change our lives. That we just need to get out of our own way. That once we know better, we will do better. But what if you’ve committed yourself to the changes and still are experiencing:

  • Immense stress
  • Chronic illness
  • Emotional dysregulation
  • Relationship issues with your spouse, child, parent, etc
  • Low self-worth, self-esteem, self-confidence
  • Weight gain/loss concerns
  • Money troubles
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Work performance issues
  • Need we go on?!?!

In this episode, our special guest, Shannon Curran, introduces us to the field of Energy Psychology and the power of repatterning the subconscious mind to help us achieve our health and life goals. In this conversation, you’ll learn:

  • What is the subconscious and how is it developed?
  • How the subconscious affects the perceptions and experiences of everyday reality.
    • SPOILER ALERT: We operate from our subconscious 90% of the time. YES, 90%!!!
  • How Energy Psychology supports profound shifts in your biology.
  • How to spot your own limiting beliefs.
  • The types of Energy Psychology that may benefit you. This may include:
    • Psych-K
    • EMDR
    • Body Code
    • Emotion Code
    • Subliminal Tapes
    • There are others!

The self-development world is right. You DO have the power to change, let go, or move through what is not serving you. But if negative subconscious programs are at play, no amount of talk therapy, meditation, or healing foods will fully clear the path to your optimal state of wellbeing. We hope you give this episode a listen. And please reach out to either Shannon or Erica/Cassie at edgeofthenest@gmail.com if you have questions!

*Get in Touch with Shannon*

  • https://shannoncurran.com/
  • https://www.facebook.com/groups/healwithouttherapy
  • https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085422160738

*More Resources***

  • The Biology of Belief: Unleashing the Power of Consciousness, Matter, and Miracles by Bruce Lipton.
  • Karen A. Bowen’s work: https://karenabowen.com/
  • More on Psych-K. These are in-depth videos!
    • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q3-SyZUQv4A
    • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3m7k7JauLTI
  • Parenting from the Inside Out by Dan Siegel and Mary Hartzell

**Music credits****

Uppbeat (free for Creators!); https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/clear-sky; License code: GQGN7ICA9D8IDOUT

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For any parent who becomes confused or overwhelmed by your child’s behavior at times—this episode is for you. As relational developmental therapists, we do not set out to “fix” behavior but rather help parents and other caregivers to understand a child’s behavior and respond in a way that supports balance, growth, and harmony in the future. Join Erica for this solo episode as she describes the “tools” for relationally resetting your child’s nervous system and mitigate the most challenging behaviors.

*Music credits***

Uppbeat (free for Creators!); https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/clear-sky; License code: GQGN7ICA9D8IDOUT

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How do you respond to life’s obstacles? Do you often feel a state of FLOW or RESISTANCE in your life?

In this brief episode, Erica and Cassie begin to “plant the seed” for reflection upon the thoughts and actions you take to either facilitate or block ease in the day-to-day. It’s perfectly normal to feel things such as worry, frustration, or overwhelm as we navigate life’s twists and turns. In fact, it’s that emotional activation that serves as a signal or catalyst for growth and change. And don’t think for a second that this process is reserved for only the Big Life Events. In fact, by practicing reflection with the most mundane “obstacles,” you can foster a stronger sense of agency and better communication with self and others, ultimately leading to more flow, ease, and joy.

*Resources*

  • Gabor Mate
    • https://drgabormate.com/
    • Podcast episode: How to Understand and Heal Your Trauma. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-1Ukfaf7co

*Music credits***

Uppbeat (free for Creators!); https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/clear-sky; License code: GQGN7ICA9D8IDOUT

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Have you ever thought about what drives INNATE development? How do we begin to learn to move? To use our eyes in a meaningful way? How does the infant begin to lay foundations for future executive function?

The answer = Primitive Reflexes!

Join Cassie and Erica to learn more about reflex integration as a therapeutic modality to help children and adults address challenges related to motor skills, self-regulation, executive function, visual skills, and more. You’ll learn why Cassie doesn’t like the term “retained reflex” and how these innate movement patterns influence the way we move, think, and feel.

*Music credits***

Uppbeat (free for Creators!); https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/clear-sky; License code: GQGN7ICA9D8IDOUT

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In this special episode, Erica & husband, Jeremy Scheifflee, join forces to share content from their program Feeding Conscious Relationships. Although the content is geared toward romantic partnerships, the concepts can be applied to any intimate, meaningful relationship.

“It takes a lot of personal responsibility to make a relationship work."

Listen to hear about how Jeremy and Erica transformed their marriage of blame, frustration, and misunderstanding to a relationship of ultimate respect, appreciation, and peace. And of course since they’re human, they still slip up here and then. After all, EVERY relationship experiences rupture—it’s whether you’re willing to take responsibility and perspective to repair that matters.

Join us to hear about tools and tactics to turn OFF the anger/resentment and allow yourself to CHOOSE LOVE. Learn how to take back personal and relational power.

*Resources*

Feeding Conscious Relationships (community led by Erica & Jeremy)

  • https://feedingconsciousrelationships.com/
  • Facebook Group: “Feeding Conscious Relationships”
  • Ask for an in-person or a virtual event!! Email at feedingconsciousrelationships@gmail.com

Karen A. Bowen:

  • Bowen, Karen A. (2018) One Conscious Choice: The Power To Transform Your Life, Relationships, and Make a Difference in the World. https://www.amazon.com/One-Conscious-Choice-Karen-Bowen/dp/0964934396
  • https://karenabowen.com/
  • One Conscious Choice Podcast

Terry Real:

  • https://terryreal.com/
  • Books:
    • Us: Getting Past You and Me to Build a More Loving Relationship
    • The New Rules of Marriage: What You Need to Know to Make Love Work
    • How Can I Get Through to You?: Reconnecting Men and Women
    • I Don’t Want to Talk About: Overcoming the Secret Legacy of Male Depression
  • Relationship Online Courses: https://terryreal.com/relationship-online-courses/
  • You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/@realterryreal

“Parts Work”/Internal Family Systems Model

  • https://ifs-institute.com/resources/articles/internal-family-systems-model-outline
  • Holms, Tom (2011). Parts Work: An Illustrated Guide to Your Inner Life

Parenting Books that focus on “Self Work”

  • Siegel, D. and Hartzell, M (2013). Parenting from the Inside Out: How a Deeper Self-Understanding Can Help You Raise Children Who Thrive.
  • Perry, P (2019). The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read (and Your Children Will Be Glad That You Did).

*Music credits***

Uppbeat (free for Creators!); https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/clear-sky; License code: GQGN7ICA9D8IDOUT

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It’s January 2024! Perhaps you’re thinking about the months & year to come. Maybe your hopes & dreams are at the top of mind. Likely none of those aspirations include getting sick moreoften. In fact, getting sick might get in the way of what you want to experience and accomplish this year. For these reasons, it feels like the perfect time to bring you this “Navigating Illness Naturally” episode.

In this episode, Cassie dives into:

  • Why it’s beneficial to get sick (occasionally).
  • How acute illness such as getting a cold or flu can actually serve us.
  • Natural strategies that we can use to bolster our body to fight off illness more quickly & with more comfort.

Resources

  • Benefits of getting sick
    • Sinsheimer, S., ND (2015). It’s Good to Get Sick! https://deserthealthnews.com/story/its-good-to-get-sick/
    • Brown, S. (2019). Why it's Good to Get Sick (and You Should...at Least Once a Year!). https://www.bonafideprovisions.com/blogs/blog/why-its-healthy-to-get-sick
    • Jacobs, L (2021). The Benefits of Getting Sick. https://atchiro.com/2021/01/04/benefits-of-getting-sick/
  • Epsom salt baths
    • Dr Group, CD (2018). Epsom Salt: 10 Benefits for the Bath and Other Uses. https://explore.globalhealing.com/epsom-salt/
    • Healthline (2023). The What, Why, and How of Epsom Salt Baths. https://www.healthline.com/health/epsom-salt-bath
  • Colloidal Silver: https://sovereignsilver.com/
  • Nebulizing treatments
    • Barski, et al (2020). Isotonic Saline Nebulization and Lung Function in Children With Mild Respiratory Ailments. Physiological Research 69(Suppl 1): S131–S137. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8604049/
    • Dr. Jockers. Nebulizing Hydrogen Peroxide for Respiratory Health. https://drjockers.com/nebulizing/?fbclid=IwAR0wXeYBPwZ6OmBdHIDetKR4TzbVm8LjD9rumnGOWk-_Hdh14qPtHiQlg28
    • Amirav, I (2017). Hypertonic Saline for Inhalation. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29235745/
  • Salt Therapy; Halotherapy
    • Lazarescu, et al (2014). Surveys on therapeutic effects of “halotherapy chamber with artificial salt-mine environment” on patients with certain chronic allergenic respiratory pathologies and infectious-inflammatory pathologies. Journal of Medicine and Life 7(Spec Iss 2): 83–87. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4391365/
    • Reynolds, G (2020). Natural Relief From Cold & Flu Symptoms with Salt Therapy. https://circleofhealthlongmont.com/blog/natural-relief-from-cold-flu-symptoms-with-salt-therapy
  • Essential oils;Symphony of the Cells™: https://www.symphonyofthecells.com/

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In this special episode, Natalie Benoit, co-owner of Inspiration Wellness Center, joins us for a BIG talk on taking our health and power back. Join us to hear about Natalie’s own health journey. Natalie shares about having a stroke at 15 years old, experiencing constant migraines, and being diagnosed with bipolar, depression, anxiety, and a neurological disorder. And that’s just to name a few! By age 31 when having her first child, Natalie discovered the path to optimal health and ALL of her ailments had disappeared. How did she do this? A major avenue was FOOD AS MEDICINE.

Natalie shares about the “miracles” she has witnessed working with clients facing everything from cancer to MS, ADHD, diabetes, and various other psychiatric and autoimmune disorders. Miracle? Or the power of food to allow our body to heal?

If you or a loved one is experiencing ANY issues with physical, emotional, or mental health, this episode is for YOU.

During this extended episode, Natalie covers:

  • The top things to AVOID in your diet:
    • Processed foods, faux foods including artificial dyes, flavors. Preservatives.
    • White sugar, corn syrup, HFCS, artificial sweeteners
    • Vegetable oils, partially hydrogenated oils, canola oils
    • Wheat: whether organic or not
    • Pasteurized diary: whether organic or not
  • The top things to ADD in your diet:
    • Produce, produce, produce! Including fruit – no “fruit fear” here!
    • Fermented foods and beverages
    • Bone broth
  • The power of zeolite
  • And so much more!

We admit there’s a lot of information here. We invite you to hold onto what resonates and let the rest go for now. Pick a starting point. Select one baby step. And then another…and another. Because after all, as Natalie says, “baby steps render huge results.”

*Contact Natalie*

  • Websites:
    • http://www.milwaukeereiki.massageplanet.com/index.php
    • https://www.meetup.com/inspiration-wellness-center/
  • Social media:
    • Facebook: “Natalie Benoit Wellness” AND “Natalie Kridler Benoit”
    • Linked In: Natalie Benoit Wellness

*Resources***

  • The Omnivore’s Dilemma: A Natural History of Four Meals by Michael Pollan
  • Food Rules: An Eater’s Manual by Michael Pollan
  • Healing Childhood Ear Infections: Prevention, Home Care, and Alternative Treatment by Michael A. Schmidt, Ph.D.
  • Patient Heal Thyself: A Remarkable Health Program Combining Ancient Wisdom with Groundbreaking Clinical Research by Jordan Rubin

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The holiday season is fast approaching. For many, it is something to look forward to. A season filled with gatherings with those we hold dear. A time for celebration.

For others, these words are cringe-worthy. We’ve experienced relational rupture and thus have stored memories. We feel unfulfilled and disconnected. And now we anxiously anticipate what’s ahead as we gather with the people we have hurt and/or have hurt us.

The first step in HAVING different is THINKING differently. Listen in as Erica offers two important relational tips to support a new way of being that is sure to serve you well during the holidays and beyond.

*Resources*

  1. https://terryreal.com

  2. https://karenabowen.com/

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KID FIGHTS: Is it possible to diffuse the situation and build skills for harmony in the future and support emotional intelligence? YES, YES, and YES!

Join Erica and Cassie to learn more about the rupture and repair process for the developing brain. We’ll cover topics such as:

  • Sharing
  • Teasing and bullying
  • Perspective-taking
  • Social negotiation

Solid social skills aren’t only important for relationships. They are associated with:

  • Better academic performance
  • Overall life success
  • Better health and wellness
  • Can positively shape future generations.

We hope you join us! Questions? Email us at edgeofthenest@gmail.com!

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Relationship Fact #1:
Breakdowns between people are inevitable! No one is immune to these experiences. Yes, even “relationship experts” cannot hide from this truth.

Relationship Fact #2:
It’s what we do after the rupture that counts the most!

Join Cassie and Erica as we share about the experience we had with miscommunication, confusion, and frustration within one another. In this episode you’ll hear the details about:

  • The circumstances that led to the rupture.
  • The hurts we felt.
  • The personal responsibility we had to own.
  • The foundations of our relationship that led to the MOST SUCCESSFUL repair of our lives.

We share this vulnerable story to serve as a blueprint for all healthy relationships. Because whether you have a spouse, partner, child, friend, co-worker, etc the truth is you WILL have breakdowns from time to time. AND if you’re willing to commit to repair, those ruptures can actually make your bond stronger. So what do you have to lose? Take a listen and choose growth!

Mentioned Resources

  • Parenting From the Inside Out by by Daniel J. Siegel, M.D., and Mary Hartzell, M.Ed.; https://drdansiegel.com/book/parenting-from-the-inside-out/
  • The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read (and Your Children Will Be Glad That You Did) by Philippa Perry; https://www.amazon.com/Book-Wish-Your-Parents-Children-ebook/dp/B07GRBB9WQ

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The Back-to-School season is almost here, and along with it will come…stress. Transitions tax our systems physically and emotionally—whether the change is welcomed or not. Now is the time to prepare your and your children’s bodies to hopefully smooth out the bumps as we all get back into the school routine. And preparation can be EASY! We promise! Listen to this “Quick Thoughts” episode to learn about one single hack for building stress resilience and preparing for the kids to return to school.

Mineral Resources

1. The Mineral Fix: How to Optimize Your Mineral Intake for Energy, Longevity, Immunity, Sleep and More (2021) by James DiNicolantonio.
https://www.amazon.com/Mineral-Fix-Optimize-Longevity-Immunity/dp/B08XXZX695

2. Info from Dr. Elisa Song, a holistic pediatrician:
https://healthykidshappykids.com/2020/04/04/pediatricians-pandemic-immune-support-plan/
https://healthykidshappykids.com/2016/09/07/back-to-school-back-to-stress/

3. Hormones in Harmony Podcast:

177 The BIGGEST Cause of Mineral Imbalances (Which Affects Us All)

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/177-the-biggest-cause-of-mineral-imbalances/id1449574387?i=1000620409049

178 How to BOOST Your Mineral Levels Naturally!

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/178-how-to-boost-your-mineral-levels-naturally/id1449574387?i=1000621332408

4. Balanced Bites Podcast: The Benefits of Bone Broth
https://blog.balancedbites.com/podcast-episode-221bone-broth-with-dr-kellyann-petrucci/

*Mentioned Links*

2022 Episode: “Back to School – Setting Up for Success”: https://www.edgeofthenestpodcast.com/1905380/11207443

Redmond Real Salt: https://redmond.life/collections/real-salt

ConcenTrace Minerals: https://www.traceminerals.com/collections/liquid-and-functional-minerals

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The Mineral Fix: How to Optimize Your Mineral Intake for Energy, Longevity, Immunity, Sleep and More

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Have you ever felt mystified by your child's or significant other's behavior? Do you experience communication breakdowns or misunderstandings despite countless efforts to harmonize? If so, Human Design could offer a new path!

Human Design offers an "operator's manual" for your unique self to thrive and to discover who you are authentically. It helps you understand why you do what you do and how you were meant to show up in this world. Even more, Human Design offers you tools and guidance in how to respond when things aren't feeling quite right in life.

Human Design is not just a framework for us to understand ourselves better but also to support better family dynamics. It helps us deepen our understanding of those we love and live with. It guides us in facilitating efficient and empathetic communication with our children, significant others, parents, friends...or really anyone we are in relationship with.

In this episode our guest, Amanda Dacio of Red Dragonfly Healing, introduces Human Design and helps us understand how this framework can powerfully shift our relationship to self and others.

Connect with Amanda of Red Dragonfly Healing!Website: www.RedDragonflyHealing.com
Instagram: @reddragonflyhealing
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reddragonflyhealing

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If you thought acupuncture was only about needles, then this episode is for you!

We’re debunking acupuncture myths left and right.

In this episode, you’ll learn more about how:

  • Acupuncture is not only for adults; it’s for CHILDREN too!
  • Acupuncture is only ONE tool in the toolbox. You’ll hear more about what Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has to offer. As a healthcare model more than 2,500 years old, TCM’s arsenal and wisdom runs deep and helps us get to the root cause and truly heal.
  • Acupuncture and TCM can help with a LONG list of concerns and ailments such as:
    • Pain: either acute or chronic
    • Headaches
    • Fatigue
    • Brain fog
    • Sleep issues
    • Picky eating
    • Bowel/bladder issues
    • Digestive problems
    • Emotional dysregulation
    • Anxiety
    • Depression
    • Fertility difficulties
    • Skin issues such as rashes or acne
    • Acute illness – Yes, acupuncture can get you better faster!
    • The list keeps going…

We hope you join us and learn more about how acupuncture and TCM improve your whole family’s quality of life and help you or your child HEAL and THRIVE!

*Find out more about Caitria Thiele*

Clinic Name: Connected Healing

Website: https://www.connectedhealingllc.com/

Facebook (“Connected Healing”): https://www.facebook.com/connectedhealingCT

Instagram: Caitria Thiele, L.Ac. (@connectedhealingcaitria)

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Are you thriving as a mom? Is your life aligned with your human rights and needs?

Our mainstream culture has a pretty dismal narrative about what motherhood is: It’s hard, exhausting and you feel guilty or worried all of the time. On top of that, we are rewarded for self-sacrificing! It’s no wonder mothers are prone to mental health challenges and chronic physical ailments. And you know what? Maternal health affects kids’ future outcomes even more than paternal health! So it’s time to reclaim balance—not only for ourselves but our children.

In this episode, you’ll hear about the power of RECEIVING and how you can re-align the give-and-take in your own life. You’ll hear about:

  • What we can receive.
  • Why we may not receive as much as we want/need.
  • How we can elicit change and return to our basic human design.

Resources & References

Dying to be a Good Mother by Heather Chauvin
https://heatherchauvin.com/book-order

“Taking the Martyr Out of Motherhood” by Megan Margulies (Mar 17, 2022)
https://www.oprahdaily.com/life/health/a39463045/motherhood-with-chronic-illness/

“Parenting-Related Stressors and Self-Reported Mental Health of Mothers with Young Children” in the American Journal of Public Healthhttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1913090/

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Are you concerned about your child’s attention skills or ability to follow directions? Does your child seem to lose or forget things easily? What about emotional or social challenges that impact everyday experiences? If any of these apply, then this episode might be for you!

Join Erica and Cassie as we continue this two-part series on “praxis.” This time we’re focusing on executive function—skills that are critical for independent living and adulthood. In this episode, we will unpack:

  • What are executive function skills?
  • When and how do executive function skills develop?
  • When is it time to seek a professional about our concerns?
  • Tips and strategies for supporting executive function for your child (or student).

Did you miss “Part 1” of this praxis series?
Listen now: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1905380/12118331

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Okay everyone, we are interrupting our regular programming to share some exciting news!!

Erica and Cassie are combining forces yet again…We’re joining together along with our friend and mental health expert—Jordan Olsen—to bring a LIVE discussion about parenting from a heart-centered, evidence-based approach. This live professional discussion will guide its listeners onto a path of supporting emotional wellness and resilience for not only children but parents alike.

Read on for the full description of this multi-disciplinary discussion:

On one hand, “parenting” could be merely defined as the process of the day-to-day actions and responsibilities one carries out to raise a child. But is that really all we want out of such a critical role in shaping the human race? If we are willing, parenting can also be a lifelong journey. One that allows us to learn more about ourselves, heal our own wounds, and understand the impact we have on the future lives of our children, their children, and humanity at large. What if we chose to parent on and with purpose?

In this multi-disciplinary discussion, you will begin to learn concepts, values, and tools that parents can use to surpass outdated belief systems and instill values that raise the next generation with confidence, competence, and compassion. So, what does it mean to parent with PURPOSE?

  • Prepare the child for the path. Instill resilience and self-confidence so that your child can move through and grow from any of life’s obstacles.
  • Understand, listen, and attune to your child. This one is not always easy, especially if we did not receive this in our own childhood—but there’s still hope!
  • Regulate alongside our child and help them develop their own regulation skills.
  • Play with our children and find our own sense of play. It’s way more than just fun and games; it’s critical to optimal development and mental/emotional wellness.
  • Open our minds to expand our perceptions of “me,” “you”, and “us” and gain a wider perspective of how we relate and communicate.
  • Facilitate Safety from a physical, emotional, and relational sense. It sets the tone for all experiences for both child and adult alike.
  • Expand beyond habits, limitations, and hard-wired beliefs. Let love and compassion lead the way. Not only will you have a healthier, emotionally well, and happy child; you just might find a deeper, more fulfilling life experience for yourself.

We hope that you join us as we unpack the “how’s” and “why’s” to parenting with intention and identify your unique path to whole-family health and wellness.

*Presenters***

Cassie Wilcox, MS, OTR/L, CMHIMP

https://www.thewishingwellot.com/

Erica Scheifflee, MS, CCC-SLP

http://achieveabilitywi.com

https://feedingconsciousrelationships.com/

Jordan Olsen, LCSW, PMH-C

https://www.rootsworktherapy.com/

*Time & Place***

  • Sunday, March 19 1:00-3:30pm Central Standard Time
  • Virtual—Anywhere you are!
  • Get more information and order tickets here: http://jordan-olsen-mental-health.square.site/

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Most people have never heard of the word “praxis,” and yet it permeates our everyday lives—for both children and adults. For many people, praxis skills come easily and naturally which is why we never really talk about it. However, for many other people—especially those with sensory processing difficulties—a breakdown in praxis can lead to challenges with:

  • Social interactions and success with peers
  • Rigid thinking
  • Emotional dysregulation (meltdowns, tantrums, anxiety, “shut down”, etc)
  • Academic learning challenges
  • Difficulties learning self-care skills (getting dressed, brushing teeth, etc)
  • Challenges learning a new sport
  • The list goes on!

Join us to learn:

  • What is praxis?
  • What role does it play in development?
  • What can we do when there are breakdowns in praxis?

Next month, we will go into a more specific set of skills that develop from praxis…EXECUTIVE FUNCTION!

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Despite their popularity, New Year’s Resolutions often end with little success. As humans, one of our core desires is to learn and grow to deepen our sense of self and meaning in life. But if so many of us are “failing” in achieving our goals, then it might be time to reimagine how we go about growth and change. What if January 1st is not the best time to take physical action but rather to go deep within and take emotional, intellectual, or spiritual action? Maybe now is the time to do our quiet “winter work” and the SPRING is when we take actionable steps! We might not only be more successful in achieving our goals, but we may actually fulfill our deepest desired experiences and feelings. Listen now to this “Quick Thoughts” episode to learn more.

Resources

Caprino, K. (2019). The Top 3 Reasons New Year’s Resolutions Fail and How Yours Can Succeed. www.forbes.com

Oscarsson, M., Carlbring, P., Andersson, G., & Rozental, A. (2020). A large-scale experiment on New Year’s resolutions: Approach-oriented goals are more successful than avoidance-oriented goals. Public Library of Science (PLOS) One; doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0234097

Schwantes, M. (Jan 8, 2022). Studies Show 91 Percent of Us Won't Achieve Our New Year's Resolutions. How to Be the 9 Percent That Do: Four strategies that the 9 percent of successful goal-achievers do consistently well. www.inc.com

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Let’s face it. We’re all human and we all have our “moments.” We break down. We rupture our relationships. We experience low bandwidth and react rather than respond. And it can get ugly!

When these breakdowns happen, how we do move through them and learn from them? What do we do next? The answers…

  • ACCEPT and ACKNOWLEDGE you are having a hard moment.
  • Seek out COMMUNITY for being seen, felt, and understood AND to help expand your perception and perspective.
  • STEP AWAY. Take time.
  • Take care of your NERVOUS SYSTEM.
  • REPAIR
  • CONNECT with your HIGHER SELF—the person we want to be; the person we’re capable of being.

Join Erica and Cassie to hear more about these action steps and how they can play out in your own life. After all, more than likely, your “ugly moment” will come eventually, so what would it feel like to be prepared this time? 

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In this “Quick Thoughts” episode, Erica shares a vulnerable personal story. One that reveals how sometimes—despite our best intentions to proactively self-nourish—breakdowns happen, and the proverbial “cup” runs over.  

Reflect with us as Erica unlocks wisdom through curiosity to explore questions such as:

  • “How do I transform obstacles into learning opportunities?”
  • “How do I grow even in my discomfort?”
  • “How do I move forward with grace AND personal responsibility?”

Journey with Erica through a difficult, imperfect, HUMAN moment…something we all experience yet most of us would rather ignore and wait to pass quietly—yet unprocessed.

What is there to gain through vulnerable connection, reflection, and admission?!? Listen now to find out!

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Dear human who wishes to feel healthy, happy, fulfilled, and alive…YOU DON’T HAVE TO DO THIS ALONE.

Self-development and self-nourishment are things we do FOR ourselves, BUT that doesn’t mean we have to do it BY ourselves.

As young children, we needed the guidance of caregivers to help us grow, learn, and survive. We may be all grown up now, but we never stop benefiting from a loving, caring guide to help us THRIVE. The best part?: Now that we’re adults, we can CHOOSE who guides and mentors us.

This is where life coaching comes in:

  • Thought life coaching was only for those “failing at life”?
  • Or only for the rich and famous?
  • Think again!

Life coaching is an opportunity to have a relationship with someone who can help you answer your toughest questions and overcome your most difficult barriers that block you from feeling the most alive and well that you possibly can.

Join us to hear from OUR OWN LIFE COACH—Monica Gill—to hear about:

  • What life coaching is.
  • Who life coaching is for.
  • And personal testimonials from both Erica and Cassie about how life coaching has impacted the quality of our own lives.

You don’t have to be in crisis to benefit from life coaching. You just need a desire to live your most authentic, aligned life.

*More about Monica Gill*

https://www.monicagill.com/about.html

Email Erica or Cassie for more information!

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At this time of year, the SQUIRRELS can be our TEACHERS! They’re busy gathering and preparing for winter. What if we did the same thing to help us THRIVE—not just survive—this holiday and winter season?

Although the “fall harvest” almost exclusively refers to the gathering of food, we can also think of this time of year as an opportunity to collect other things that nourish us. 

In this “Quick Thoughts” episode, we’re getting right down to practicalities. You’ll hear about strategies, tools, and habits that we are using to support our physical and emotional wellbeing. Whether its Traditional Chinese Medicine, breathwork, or whiteboards that resonate with you, this episode might just inspire a “non-negotiable” approach to helping you feel ALIVE and WELL into the busy HOLIDAY season.

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Parenting with “compassionate command” leads to more independent and secure children AND more emotionally well parents. Maybe COMPASSION comes more easily for you while COMMAND is your partner’s comfort zone. How does the way you were parented impact where you fall on the “compassion-command spectrum” and WHY DOES IT MATTER?

In this episode, Erica and Cassie discuss what it means to drive the metaphorical “ship” for your family with confidence, love, and collaboration. Many examples are given to illustrate what it looks like when either compassion or command is out of balance and how we return to alignment. 

Do you have an example, question, or parenting struggle related to this topic? WE INVITE YOU TO EMAIL US! “Part Two” of this conversation will be all about supporting you - the listener. We will unpack the possible reasons for parent-child relationship breakdowns and discuss steps for moving forward. Rest assured, we are ALL on this parenting journey…an ongoing experience of self-discovery and growth. This is your opportunity to join in tandem with Erica and Cassie to achieve optimal wellbeing for yourself and your family. 

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It’s pep talk time! And this isn’t just for the kids going back to school…it’s for the parents too (maybe even more so)!

In this “back to school episode”, we will:

  • Cover the science behind our stress response to transitions as a form of change
  • Explore new ways of thinking about transitions as multi-faceted processes
  • Explore how to set ourselves up for success through intention-setting and managing expectations of ourselves and our kids
  • Discuss common barriers, pitfalls, or “bottlenecks” and offer supportive strategies

If you are ready to take on the new school year with your family in ways that support greater flow and ease, be sure to tune in. Oh, and if YOU have a personal struggle with the school year transition that was NOT covered, we are ready to unpack it with you! E-mail us at edgeofthenest@gmail.com.

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Let’s face it…human behavior can be confusing, exhausting, and downright frustrating at times. Whether we’re talking about young children or even adults, when someone behaves in a way that is unexpected, inconvenient, or uncomfortable, our natural reaction is to want to stop or “fix” it. However, if we react in this way, we might miss an important opportunity to understand that person on a deeper level and/or to help the individual begin to understand themselves better. If we can take a curious and open-minded approach to addressing challenging behaviors, we can enhance emotional intelligence, attunement and connection, and improve harmony within our relationships. Even more, we can deepen our understanding about ourselves and learn our own desires, needs, and triggers. Leaning into the discomfort may take more time and energy initially, but in the long run, we can experience greater peace, joy, productivity, success, and wellbeing.

Join Erica and Cassie on this episode to understand how to look at difficult behavior from a solution-focused, emotionally resilient lens. The discussion applies to behavior across the lifespan; examples include those of toddlers, pre-teens/teens, and even adults. You’ll walk away with tips, tools, and resources that can help you RESPOND rather than REACT when your child—or spouse, friend, family member for that matter!—is melting down, acting out, or shutting you out.

Resources

Uniquely Human by Barry M. Prizant: https://barryprizant.com/uniquely-human/

Books by Tina Payne Bryson (https://www.tinabryson.com/#home-page) and Dr. Dan Siegel (https://drdansiegel.com/). Books include but are not limited to:

  • The Yes Brain: How to Cultivate Courage, Curiosity, and Resilience in Your Child
  • No Drama Discipline: The Whole-Brain Way to Calm the Chaos and Nurture Your Child’s Developing Mind
  • Parenting from the Inside Out: How a Deeper Self-Understanding Can Help You Raise Children Who Thrive

“Kids do well if they can, not if they wanna” by Dr. Ross Greene. See the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jvzQQDfAL-Q

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Do you know how POWERFUL curiosity really is?!?! We’re serious here. Curiosity has the power to CHANGE YOUR LIFE and help you step into the driver’s seat of your health and wellbeing. When we implement curiosity into our daily lives, we can:

  • Influence how our genes are expressed
  • Find solutions to our chronic ailments that conventional doctors have dismissed or have no answers for
  • Remain calm and grounded during even the toughest parenting situations
  • Resolve recurring problems in our lives or relationships to finally experience peace
  • Feel the sense of empowerment we have over our own lives and confident in how we can best support our children

Join us for this episode where Cassie and Erica talk about how curiosity supports a “growth mindset” rather than a “fixed mindset” and how this has impacted their own lives. From thyroid health, to eye function, to parenting struggles, we’ve continued to ask the questions and ponder the “why” all in the name of empowerment and wellbeing. Keep listening as we begin to ponder ways to harness more curiosity in your own life.

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To honor the summer solstice, we're offering a bonus episode so you can up-level your health journey this summer!

Essential oils offer a plethora of opportunities to support our physical and emotional wellbeing. They can do everything from:
- Keep you cool on a hot summer day
- Help your baby with teething pain
- Keep your teenager calm for an exam or "big game"
- Reduce your allostatic load from traditional cleaning chemicals
- Keep the mosquitos away
- AND SO MUCH MORE!!

In this episode, we join our special guest, Lindsay Williamson, to discuss the basics of essential oils including how to use and important safety standards.

Keep listening to hear the myriad ways that essential oils can be used to help us take our power back to live our best lives, AND model this for our children. Who knows...maybe essential oils will become your "first line of defense" in your whole-living tool box.

More about Lindsay Williamson*
Root to Raise - www.roottoraise.com
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M.A.D.E. for This. - Community + Education Mama Group - Starts late June

More about essential oils*
https://www.roottoraise.com/post/simple-swaps-essential-oils

Music credits

Uppbeat (free for Creators!); https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/clear-sky; License code: GQGN7ICA9D8IDOUT

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This is PART TWO of a two-part series. If you haven’t heard PART ONE, check it out here: 

https://www.edgeofthenestpodcast.com/1905380/10487085-e2-part-1-embodying-wholeness

In this episode, Erica and Cassie review the fundamental “pillars of wholeness:”

  • Relationships
  • Experiences
  • Nutrition
  • Allostatic load: the “rain barrel”
  • State of our nervous system

You’ll learn WHAT you can do when one or more of these pillars is out of alignment. Listen to find out how these strategies (AND MANY MORE) can help you live your best life and raise happy, healthy children:

  • Shared joy
  • YES time
  • The “crowding out” method
  • Opening detoxification pathways
  • Identifying your “guardrails"
  • Setting boundaries for your own nervous system

Resources

  • The High 5 Habit: Take Control of Your Life with One Simple Habit by Mel Robbins.

    Music credits

Uppbeat (free for Creators!); https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/clear-sky; License code: GQGN7ICA9D8IDOUT

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BONUS Mother’s Day Episode!

Parenting is the most important leadership role. It has a butterfly effect on the whole world. Mothers specifically are doing so much and doing the best they can. But we can always choose to grow. What if we could change the future of our society by looking within ourselves?

In this episode, Cassie and Erica talk about how self-judgement and perfectionism block our creativity, authenticity, and flow. They discuss the impact it has on physical and emotional wellbeing—not only for the individual but their children and an entire future generation as well. Learn how to identify and move through self-doubt or “paralysis by analysis” and begin to harness a “good enough” mindset.

Resources

  1. The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual path to Higher Creativity. By Julia Cameron (2002).

  2. Judgement Detox: Release the Beliefs that Hold You Back from Living a Better Life. By Gabrielle Bernstein (2018).

  3. You Can Heal Your Life. By Louise Hay (1984).

Music credits

Uppbeat (free for Creators!); https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/clear-sky; License code: GQGN7ICA9D8IDOUT

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Life is a playground for us to experience with all its ebbs and flows. We were born for this—the easy and the uncomfortable. It’s what makes life worth living.

This is PART ONE of a two-part series. Erica and Cassie discuss the “pillars of wholeness” – the elements that—when in alignment—lead to a healthy body, a resilient mind, and an experience of ultimate fulfillment.

If any of these pillars is out of alignment, we will experience DIS-EASE either in our physical body or emotional health:
- Relationships
- Experiences
- Nutrition
- Allostatic load: the “rain barrel”
- State of our nervous system

Listen to found out WHAT may be out of alignment in your life. Then tune into PART TWO to find out HOW to return to wholeness.
________________________________________________________________________________________

Resources

  • When the Body Says No: Exploring the Stress-Disease Connection by Gabor Mate.
  • The High 5 Habit: Take Control of Your Life with One Simple Habit by Mel Robbins.
  • Kristin Neff's work: https://self-compassion.org/
    _______________________________________________________________________________________

Music credits

Uppbeat (free for Creators!); https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/clear-sky; License code: GQGN7ICA9D8IDOUT

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Are you ready to grow and get uncomfortable all while maintaining your sense of "home" and security? Find your growth edge with us here at the Edge of the Nest! In this premiere episode, Cassie and Erica share the WHY's behind the podcast and what it truly means to live life "on the edge" in the name of self-growth, optimal physical and emotional development of our children, and leaving this world better than we found it.

Music credit: “Clear Sky” from Uppbeat (free for Creators!); https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/clear-sky; License code: GQGN7ICA9D8IDOUT

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An official holiday announcement introducing Edge of the Nest, a podcast dedicated to supporting both self-growth and the growth of others through compassionate, vulnerable attunement.  

In this holiday teaser, you will meet the podcast hostesses, Cassie Wilcox and Erica Scheifflee.  Combined, they offer nearly 80 years of life experience and 35 years of professional experience unraveling the journey of coming closer to our unique selves and enjoying the ride.  More to come in early 2022.   

With the holidays right around the corner, they’ve asked themselves, and invite you to reflect along with them: 

“How do we create the holiday experience we want to bring into our lives?” 

For more information, to submit questions and ideas for content, or to join their mailing list, visit:  edgeofthenest@gmail.com

You can learn more about Cassie by visiting: https://www.thewishingwellot.com

You can learn more about Erica by visiting: http://www.achieveabilitywi.com

Enjoy and we will connect with you in 2022!

Music credits: "Clear Sky" from Uppbeat (free for Creators!); https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/clear-sky; License code: GQGN7ICA9D8IDOUT