Robot Unicorn

In this insightful episode, clinical psychologist Dr. Tanya Cotler joins Jess and Scott to explore the complexities of intergenerational trauma and cycle-breaking in parenting. Dr. Cotler shares her expertise on how childhood experiences shape our parenting, the importance of curiosity and compassion in understanding our triggers, and practical ways to build self-awareness and cope with parenting challenges.

Listeners will gain valuable insights on:

• How our bodies hold onto past traumas and how they can resurface in parenting
• The concept of "repair mapping" to reflect on difficult parenting moments
• Finding a balance between productivity and mindful pauses as a parent
• Reframing children's challenging behaviours as opportunities for growth

This deep and honest conversation offers both professional wisdom and personal examples to help parents navigate their own healing journeys while raising emotionally healthy children. It is a must-listen for anyone looking to break generational cycles and create more connected relationships with their kids.

Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.

Credits:

Editing by The Pod Cabin

Artwork by Wallflower Studio

Production by Nurtured First

In this revealing episode, Jess and Scott dive deep into why a messy house is a major trigger for Jess. They explore how their different upbringings shaped their attitudes towards cleanliness, with Jess craving order while Scott is more relaxed about clutter.

Jess opens up about feeling overwhelmed by visual chaos and struggling to be present with her kids when the house is messy. They share practical strategies they've found helpful, like setting boundaries around eating spaces and getting rid of excess toys.

Listeners will gain insight into managing their own triggers around household mess, communicating needs to partners, and finding a balance between cleanliness and embracing the chaos of family life.

Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.

Credits:

Editing by The Pod Cabin 

Artwork by Wallflower Studio 

Production by Nurtured First 

In this controversial episode, Jess and Scott dive into the heated debate around sending kids to daycare. They explore the "mommy wars" between stay-at-home and working parents - unpacking the guilt, judgement, and insecurities on both sides.

Jess offers a nuanced perspective, explaining how quality childcare providers can be an important part of a family’s "village” and how a strong parent-child attachment can be built whether a child is in childcare or at home.

Listeners will gain insights on:

• How to preserve attachment even when using childcare.
• The importance of finding caregivers who truly connect with your child.
• Ways to stay connected and present during the time you do have together.

This balanced discussion aims to ease parents' guilt and encourage more compassion, reminding us we're all just trying to do our best for our kids.

Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.

Credits:

Editing by The Pod Cabin

Artwork by Wallflower Studio

Production by Nurtured First

In this eye-opening episode, Jess delves deep into the concept of "strong-willed children" and challenges common assumptions about defiant behaviour.

Listeners will gain fresh insights on:

• Why the "strong-willed" label can be problematic and miss underlying needs.
• How sensitivity, power dynamics, and leadership struggles contribute to defiance.
• Practical strategies for addressing stubborn behaviour through curiosity and connection.
• Ways to provide healthy control and meet children's needs for autonomy.
• The importance of consistent, empathetic leadership as a parent.

Whether you have a so-called "strong-willed child" or simply want to better understand challenging behaviour, this episode offers a compassionate new perspective and actionable tips to transform your relationship with your child.

Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.

Credits:

Editing by The Pod Cabin

Artwork by Wallflower Studio

Production by Nurtured First

In this episode, Jess and Scott dive deep into the challenges of infant and toddler sleep and parenting through sleep deprivation. Jess opens up about her struggles as a new mom trying to follow rigid sleep training rules and how she eventually found a more attuned, connection-based approach.

In the episode, Jess and Scott discuss:

• The pitfalls of strictly following sleep training methods without considering your child's unique needs.
• How postpartum anxiety can fuel obsession over sleep schedules.
• Mindset shifts that can help parents cope better with nighttime wakings.
• Why attunement and trusting your parental instincts is so important.

Listeners will gain valuable insights on finding a balance between sleep strategies and responding to their child's needs, as well as practical tips for staying calm during those long nights. This raw and honest conversation is a must-listen for any parent struggling with sleep issues.

Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.

Credits:

Editing by The Pod Cabin

Artwork by Wallflower Studio

Production by Nurtured First

One of the most common questions Scott and Jess get about Robot Unicorn is: “Was your communication always this good? How did you learn to be less defensive and stop fighting in your relationship?”

In this episode, Scott and Jess dive into their journey from high school sweethearts to happily married parents. They share valuable insights on:

- How to move past defensiveness and truly listen to your partner

- The importance of anticipating each other's needs

- Why validating feelings isn't enough - you need to get curious

- How to have difficult conversations without accusations or blame

- Building a foundation of safety and trust in your relationship

Listeners will gain practical tips for improving communication with their partner, even during challenging seasons of life. Scott and Jess's honest, unscripted conversation offers a relatable look at the work required to build a strong relationship. Whether you're newlyweds or long-time partners, this episode has the wisdom to help take your communication to the next level.

Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.

Credits:

Editing by The Pod Cabin 

Artwork by Wallflower Studio

Production by Nurtured First

This episode was so incredible that it was hard to choose a title. Other possible titles for this episode included:

“How To Heal Your Trauma While Parenting”

“Mothering When You Have A Difficult Relationship With Your Mother.”

“Breaking Cycles Of People Pleasing And Finding Your Authentic Self.”

In this episode of Robot Unicorn, Jess and Scott welcome special guest Libby Ward, founder of Diary of an Honest Mom. Libby opens up about her journey of setting boundaries with her parents, healing from childhood trauma, and finding her authentic self as a mother.

The conversation dives deep into the challenges of cycle-breaking parenting, dealing with family judgment when setting boundaries, and learning to regulate emotions as an adult.

Listeners will gain valuable insights on:

• How to set boundaries with family members, even when it's difficult.

• The importance of accountability and repair in healing relationships.

• Strategies for regulating emotions and breaking generational cycles.

• Finding your authentic self after years of people-pleasing.

This raw, honest discussion offers hope and practical advice for anyone working to heal from past trauma and create a healthier family dynamic. It is a must-listen episode for parents seeking to break cycles and nurture stronger relationships.

Hear more from Libby on Instagram! 

Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.

Credits:

Editing by The Pod Cabin

Artwork by Wallflower Studio

Production by Nurtured First

In this episode, Jess and Scott discuss a recent incident in which their child told them that she doesn’t feel like they spend enough time with her. Jess unpacks her feelings of guilt around being a working mom, and Scott helps her understand the deeper reasons behind this guilt.

They explore the struggles of dividing time and attention between sick kids and their other children who still crave connection. Jess opens up about her fears, as a parenting expert, of not being a good enough parent herself and the challenges of transitioning from being a stay-at-home mom to working outside the home more.

Through the conversation, they realize the importance of validating their children's feelings while also helping them build resilience in handling disappointment. Jess and Scott provide an honest look at the guilt many parents face and share insights on navigating these complex emotions.

Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.

Credits:

Editing by The Pod Cabin 

Artwork by Wallflower Studio 

Production by Nurtured First 

Scott recently had a situation where he lost his cool with his toddler. In this episode, Jess and Scott unpack what happened and how he could do things differently next time by setting himself up for success as a highly sensitive person.

They discuss what it means to be highly sensitive, from noticing subtle textures and needing things a certain way to being more emotionally attuned. Scott shares his own challenges staying calm as a highly sensitive parent, especially when his sensory cup is full.

Jess offers practical tips for coping as a highly sensitive parent, like taking sensory breaks, setting boundaries, and having compassion for your unique needs. She emphasizes that there’s nothing wrong with being a sensitive person, and learning to work with your sensitivity (or your partner's or child’s sensitivity) comes with many beautiful gifts.

Through a thoughtful and, at times, humorous discussion, Scott and Jess model how partners can talk through triggering parenting moments to problem-solve together.

Listeners will gain insights into the highly sensitive parent experience and leave with new strategies to try.

Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.

Credits:

Editing by The Pod Cabin

Artwork by Wallflower Studio

Production by Nurtured First

CW: Self-Harm, Mental Health Jess sits down with Sarah Landry from The Birds Papaya to discuss the challenges of authentically sharing your mental health struggles online. Sarah opens up about her experience with PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder) and the courage it takes to be vulnerable about the messy, uncomfortable parts of life.

They explore the delicate balance of modelling a range of emotions to your children while ensuring they don't feel responsible for fixing a parent's struggles. This episode is a must-listen for anyone struggling with their mental health and wanting to raise empathetic kids who understand that it's okay not to be okay.

Hear more from Sarah on Instagram! 

Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.

Credits:

Editing by The Pod Cabin 

Artwork by Wallflower Studio

Production by Nurtured First

CW: Sexual abuse, grooming, sex-related topics

In this powerful episode, Jess and Scott discuss the importance of teaching body safety to kids of all ages.

Jess has been educating parents about these topics for over a decade, and in this episode, she answers Scott’s questions about why it’s so important for parents and kids to understand body safety and consent.

Jess explains how to help children tune into their "uh oh feeling" when something doesn't feel right and how to know the difference between trusted and "tricky" people. She provides concrete examples of what parents should teach and model, from babies to school-age children, to decrease children's vulnerability and help them feel confident in their bodies and relationships.

While the topic is serious, Jess reassures listeners that these ongoing conversations can be done in a calm, playful way that empowers rather than scares kids.

If you want more resources to teach your child about body safety and consent, check out The Body Safety Toolkit!

Learn more about supporting kids with body safety, big feelings, and so much more from our Nurtured First blog.

Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.

Credits:

Editing by The Pod Cabin

Artwork by Wallflower Studio

Production by Nurtured First

Today, we dive deep into the trenches of motherhood with special guests Emily Baldoni and Satya Twena, the dynamic duo behind the brand We Are Amma [www.weareamma.com]. These powerhouse women get real about the challenges of parenting in a society that often leaves mothers feeling unseen, undervalued, and utterly exhausted.

From the isolating postpartum period to the daily grind of juggling work and family life, Emily and Satya share their personal stories of struggle and triumph. They discuss the importance of building a support system, even if it means creating your own "village" from scratch.

But let's be real: sometimes, in the midst of the chaos, a simple text back from a friend can make all the difference. Jess and Scott share their own experiences navigating the unequal spotlight of parenting in the public eye.

Together, they tackle the tough questions: How do we break free from the suffocating expectations of modern motherhood? What does it mean to prioritize self-care when you're knee-deep in diapers and sleep deprivation? And why is it so hard to ask for help?

This episode is a rallying cry for parents everywhere who are tired of feeling like they have to do it all alone. It's a reminder that we're all in this together, even when it feels like we're worlds apart. There’s SO MUCH goodness in this episode! Can’t wait for you to dive in!

Hear more from Emily and Satya on Instagram, and check out We Are Amma , a team of mamas dedicated to empowering and nurturing mamas at every stage.

Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.

Credits:

Editing by The Pod Cabin 

Artwork by Wallflower Studio 

Production by Nurtured First 

Is there ever a time when it’s ok to punish your kids?!

Scott gets curious with Jess in this important episode on punishment.

Scott and Jess unpack different forms of punishment, such as spanking, timeouts, and taking things away, and discuss the research on how these impact a child's behaviour and emotional development.

Jess explains the research behind these common forms of punishment and how you can effectively discipline instead.

Throughout the conversation, Jess and Scott share personal examples from raising their own kids and discuss how to discipline in a way that teaches valuable life skills.

Listeners will gain insights into child brain development, the power of the parent-child connection, and a framework for using respectful, reasonable consequences that help kids learn.

This episode is a must-listen for any parent!

Want to learn more about the research behind these types of punishments? Check out this Nurtured First blog post. 

Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.

Credits:

Editing by The Pod Cabin

Artwork by Wallflower Studio

Production by Nurtured First 

In this fascinating discussion, Jess sits down with world-renowned sexologist Shan Boodram for a discussion about all things sex, shame, and self-discovery. Shan shares her personal journey from curious kid to professional sex educator, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs she's faced along the way.

Together, Jess and Shan dive deep into the reasons why talking about sex can be so uncomfortable, exploring the societal conditioning and messages that contribute to feelings of shame and awkwardness around intimacy. They also tackle the importance of comprehensive, age-appropriate sex education and the impact it can have on reducing stigma and promoting healthy relationships.

For parents tuning in, Shan offers valuable insights on how to approach sex education with children, emphasizing the power of open, honest communication. She and Jess also delve into the challenges of balancing motherhood and sexuality, providing tips for postpartum parents looking to rediscover their sexual selves and rekindle the spark in their relationships.

Throughout the episode, Shan and Jess share personal anecdotes and vulnerabilities, creating a safe space for listeners to reflect on their own experiences and beliefs about sex. They ultimately challenge us to examine our internalized messages and encourage us to create a new, shame-free narrative around intimacy for ourselves and future generations.

Whether you're a parent, a partner, or simply someone looking to cultivate a healthier relationship with sex and intimacy, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that will leave you feeling empowered, informed, and a little bit more comfortable talking about sex.

Credits:

Editing by The Pod Cabin

Artwork by Wallflower Studio

Production by Nurtured First

Jess shares her personal journey, starting with being a high school student with a passion for helping people, her education in child development, and how she eventually became an online parenting educator.

After being on social media for over six years, Jess has noticed some troubling themes in the online parent education space. Jess and Scott discuss the pervasiveness of misinformation and fear-mongering in online parenting advice and share tips for identifying credible, trustworthy guidance.

Jess and Scott emphasize the importance of building a strong attachment with your child through simple, everyday acts of love and attunement and reassure listeners that parenting isn’t as complicated as it seems to be online.

Credits:

Editing by The Pod Cabin

Artwork by Wallflower Studio

Production by Nurtured First

Who else loves the Twilight movies? Jess and Scott watched the movies together when they were dating, and today, they talk with one of their favourite actresses from this series, Ashley Greene! In this raw and revealing episode, Ashley opens up about her journey to motherhood and the importance of reparenting yourself first.

She openly talks about the challenges of postpartum, like the pressure to get your baby to sleep through the night. Jess and Ashley dive deep into the internal work she did to regulate her emotions and break negative cycles before having her daughter. Ashley also gets candid about the challenges of balancing a thriving career with being a present mother and learning to let go of perfectionism.

Ashley and Jess also talk about women’s health, periods, and how to raise daughters to feel no shame about their bodies. At the end of the episode, Scott and Jess talk about raising their daughters and how Scott can talk to their girls about periods!

Hear more from Ashley Greene on Instagram, and check out Hummingway, her company focused on education about reproductive and hormonal health.

Send us an email at [email protected] to share how you’ve started teaching your kids about periods!

Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.

Credits:

Editing by The Pod Cabin

Artwork by Wallflower Studio

Production by Nurtured First

In this raw, unfiltered episode, Jess and Scott dive into the complex topic of pushing kids to do hard things. They explore the fine line between encouraging children to reach their potential vs. pushing them past their limits. Jess vulnerably shares how her own painful childhood experiences make it challenging for her to watch her daughter being pushed.

Together, they unpack the key ingredients kids need to build true resilience. This honest, nuanced conversation will make you reflect deeply on how your own past shapes your parenting and what really matters when helping kids tolerate frustration. If you’ve ever struggled to find the right balance with your child, this episode is for you.

Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.

Credits:

Editing by The Pod Cabin

Artwork by Wallflower Studio

Production by Nurtured First

CW: Miscarriage, Pregnancy Loss, Stillbirth, Alcoholism

In this heartfelt episode, you’ll hear singer-songwriter Christina Perri open up in a profound way. Christina talks to us about her journey from being a sensitive, deeply feeling child to an unexpected superstar. She shares how her deep emotions and sensory processing difficulties made her feel misunderstood and how she found solace in songwriting from a young age.

Christina takes us behind the scenes of her sudden rise to fame with the hit song "Jar of Hearts" and how she navigated the challenges that came with fame at an early age. She also discusses the incredible impact of her song "A Thousand Years," and Jess shares a surprising story about this song with Christina.

In this vulnerable and honest conversation, Christina shares her experience with pregnancy loss, including the stillbirth of her daughter Rosie. She discusses her advocacy work to expand prenatal testing to prevent pregnancy loss and the importance of talking openly about grief and keeping Rosie's memory alive.

Christina also shares how motherhood has shaped her current focus on healing, authenticity, and vulnerability in her music and public persona. She emphasizes the power of connection and shared experiences, especially among mothers, in overcoming difficult times.

Throughout the episode, we explore themes of sensitivity, creativity, grief, advocacy, and the importance of being vulnerable and true to yourself. This moving conversation offers a rare glimpse into the heart and mind of a talented artist and the experiences that have shaped her life and music.

Hear more from Christina Perri on Instagram! 

Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.

Credits:

Editing by The Pod Cabin

Artwork by Wallflower Studio

Production by Nurtured First

In this episode, we dive deep into our personal histories with food, body image, and the societal pressures that have shaped our relationships with eating. Scott shares his surprising journey to a healthy, intuitive approach to food despite growing up without positive role models, while Jess opens up about her struggles with diet culture, food rules, and the pressure to "bounce back" after having three children.

Through our candid conversation, we explore the impact of childhood trauma on Scott's relationship with food and how cooking became a source of escape, control, and comfort for him from a young age. We discuss the role of hypervigilance in Scott's eating habits and how his ability to listen to his body's hunger and fullness cues has contributed to his healthy attitude towards food.

Jess, on the other hand, shares her experiences with restrictive eating, body image issues, and the societal expectations placed on women's bodies, especially after pregnancy. We examine the gender differences in body standards and the unfair scrutiny women face compared to the acceptance of the "dad bod."

As parents to three young daughters, we also discuss how to create a positive body image in children. We share our approach to exposing our children to diverse cuisines, the importance of family meals, and our goal of raising intuitive eaters who trust their bodies and enjoy food without guilt.

Throughout the episode, we offer insights and strategies for overcoming food rules, finding balance through moderation, and learning to trust one's body. We also highlight the power of food to connect us to each other and to different cultures, sharing our own experiences of exploring the world through meals.

This thought-provoking and relatable episode is a must-listen for anyone who has ever struggled with their relationship with food or body image and for parents looking to raise children with healthy, intuitive eating habits.

Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids’ printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.

Credits:

Editing by The Pod Cabin

Artwork by Wallflower Studio

Production by Nurtured First

In this raw and insightful episode, we sit down with our close friend Tryphena for a deep dive into the realities of parenting, friendship, and personal growth. Tryphena is Jess’s dear friend, a former educator, a mom of 2, as well as an Indian woman married to a French Canadian man. She opens up about the challenges of raising her neurodivergent son.

Jess and Tryphena also explore the power of healing their inner voice. They discuss how your inner critic might be the voice of a caregiver or parent.

Through her experiences, Tryphena shares the importance of reparenting oneself and healing childhood wounds, especially when faced with triggering situations as a parent. She discusses her journey of cultural identity, from assimilation to embracing her heritage, and how she supports her biracial children in developing a healthy sense of self.

Throughout the conversation, the theme of vulnerability and authenticity in friendships emerges, and we reflect on what makes our friendship with Tryphena so special—the ability to have deep, real conversations without judgement.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the messy but rewarding journey of parenting, self-discovery, and personal growth. Tryphena's story is one of resilience, adaptation, and the power of embracing one's true self, offering inspiration and comfort to exhausted parents everywhere.

Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN.

Credits:

Editing by The Pod Cabin

Artwork by Wallflower Studio

Production by Nurtured First