Robot Unicorn

Sex and Intimacy After Kids With Dr. Sara Nasserzadeh

Jess joins psychosexual therapist Dr. Sara for an honest conversation about sex, intimacy, and why connection after children involves far more than desire alone. Discover low-pressure ways to reconnect and hear why Dr. Sara's emergent love model emphasizes intentional connection over constant fireworks. Whether you're caring for a newborn or parenting older children, this episode offers a compassionate alternative to the pressure to return to your pre-baby relationship. Want to hear more from Dr. Sara Nasserzadeh? www.Sara-Nasserzadeh.com Join her online community Follow on Instagram Listen to her TED Talk Check out her new book, Love By Design Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First Head to nurturedfirst.com/bodysafety to learn more about our Body Safety & Consent course!

School Refusal, Anxiety, And Separation Struggles (REVISIT)

This week, we are revisiting a previously aired episode. When your child refuses to go to school, what's really behind the struggle—and how can you help without dismissing their feelings or removing every challenge? Jess and Scott explore the overlapping roots of school refusal, from separation anxiety and post-pandemic disruptions to bullying, friendship difficulties, learning needs, and parental anxiety. They also discuss how sleep, screen-time boundaries, and overscheduled evenings can make school mornings harder. You’ll get tools to understand, support, and nurture your child through these challenging times. This episode was originally released on March 17, 2025. If you are looking for more resources to support your child through school refusal, anxiety and separation struggles, we can help: Separations & Goodbyes Course – If your child struggles with separation anxiety—whether at school drop-off, with a babysitter, or at bedtime—this course provides the tools and support to make goodbyes easier. The School Toolkit – Whether your child is starting a new school, facing challenges at school, or you simply want to help them feel more confident, this toolkit is designed to support them every step of the way. The Friendship Toolkit – From making new friends to handling friendship ups and downs, this toolkit helps kids navigate social challenges with confidence. The Worry Toolkit – If your child has big worries—about school or anything else—this toolkit offers practical strategies to help them manage anxiety and feel more at ease. Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First Head to nurturedfirst.com/bodysafety to learn more about our Body Safety & Consent course!

How To Handle Big After-School Meltdowns (REVISIT)

This week, we are revisiting a previously aired episode. Why is your child perfect at school, only to completely fall apart the moment they get home? This episode dives deep into the common but misunderstood phenomenon of 'After-School Restraint Collapse.' Jess and Scott will help you understand that these explosions are a sign that your child feels safest with you, and give you practical strategies—from co-regulation to creating a 'soft landing'—to help your child decompress and turn these challenging moments into opportunities for connection. This episode was originally released on September 22, 2025. Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First Head to nurturedfirst.com/bodysafety to learn more about our Body Safety & Consent course!

Are You Raising A Spicy Nugget? with Loryn Brantz

In this episode, Jess sits down with Emmy award-winning author, artist, and director Loryn Brantz to discuss her brand new children's book, "I Am a Spicy Nugget." They dive deep into the magic of playful parenting, sharing practical and hilarious ways to use humour and imagination to defuse toddler tantrums. Tune in to learn why we all become "spicy nuggets" sometimes, how to combat "garbage thoughts," and why shifting your parenting mindset can completely transform your home's dynamic. To hear more from Loryn and check out her books, including her brand new children’s book, “I Am a Spicy Nugget,”, click here. Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First Head to nurturedfirst.com/bodysafety to learn more about our Body Safety & Consent course!

Why Do ADHD Kids Daydream?

In this episode, Jess dives deep into the often misunderstood world of inattentive ADHD, focusing closely on why these individuals are so frequently labelled as 'daydreamers.' We explore the hidden hyperactivity that happens entirely within the mind, which can lead to dissociation, anxiety, and overwhelm. Tune in to discover how to harness the power of the wandering mind and better support the daydreamers in your life. Want to learn more tools for supporting your child with ADHD? Check out our course, Parenting Your Child with ADHD, here. Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First Head to nurturedfirst.com/bodysafety to learn more about our Body Safety & Consent course!

Friendship Truths All Kids Need To Know

Drawing on her experience as a school therapist, Jess shares essential 'friendship truths’ that parents can teach their kids quickly and easily to help them have a great year at school. Want to learn more about supporting your kids and tweens through friendship struggles? For kids ages 3-8, check out our Friendship Toolkit here. For kids 8+, check out our Puberty Toolkit here. Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First Head to nurturedfirst.com/bodysafety to learn more about our Body Safety & Consent course!

How To Talk To Kids About Tricky Things

Jess tackles the age-old parenting struggle: What do you do when your child shuts down during tricky conversations? Listeners will walk away with five practical tools for tough conversations with their kids and tweens. Tune in to transform awkward chats into confidence-building moments! Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First Head to nurturedfirst.com/bodysafety to learn more about our Body Safety & Consent course!

The ADHD Experience No One Talks About: Sensitivity, Emotions & More with Dr. Sasha Hamdani

Join Jess as she sits down with board-certified psychiatrist and ADHD expert Dr. Sasha Hamdani to unpack the realities of Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) and emotional dysregulation. Dr. Hamdani sheds light on why so many women are diagnosed with ADHD later in life and how to navigate the complex diagnostic process. Whether you are parenting a sensitive child or learning to embrace your own emotional depth, this episode offers vital insights and practical strategies. Tune in to reframe what it means to be 'too sensitive' and discover how to harness it as your greatest strength! Hear more from Dr. Sasha Hamdani on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube (@thepsychdoctormd) Pre-Order her new book ‘Too Sensitive’ here. Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First Head to nurturedfirst.com/bodysafety to learn more about our Body Safety & Consent course!

The Truth About Risky Play

Discover the crucial differences between healthy risk and hazardous environments, and learn why allowing your kids to take calculated risks can actually decrease their long-term anxiety. Jess shares practical tips for coaching children through tricky physical situations rather than hovering. Tune in to find out why a scraped knee might just be a sign of a thriving, adventurous child! Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First Head to nurturedfirst.com/bodysafety to learn more about our Body Safety & Consent course!

How To Stay Calm During Tantrums

Jess dives into the very real and exhausting challenge of staying calm during your child's tantrums. We explore the unspoken truth about parental burnout, especially for parents whose nervous systems are triggered by yelling due to their own childhood trauma. Tune in to gain actionable strategies that will help you regulate your own emotions, reconnect with your toddler, and realize that you are absolutely not alone in the chaos of parenting! Want to hear more? Check out these episodes Jess mentions during this discussion: Self-Care For Burnt-Out Parents with Dr. Pooja Lakshmin How Can I Reduce My Anger and Annoyance As A Highly Sensitive Parent? Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First Head to nurturedfirst.com/bodysafety to learn more about our Body Safety & Consent course!

Understanding Toddler Tantrums

Jess dives deep to help you understand the true causes behind toddler and preschooler tantrums. She explains the brain science behind tantrums, and breaks down the four main reasons they happen. Listeners will gain an invaluable age-by-age guide to normal developmental behaviours. You'll learn how setting consistent boundaries, addressing sensory needs, and managing your own emotional regulation can drastically shift the tone of your home. Want to hear more about being the calm, confident leader your child needs? Listen to How To Be The Leader Your Child Needs here. Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First Head to nurturedfirst.com/bodysafety to learn more about our Body Safety & Consent course!

How To Potty Train Without Panic

In this episode of Robot Unicorn, Jess tackles the often overwhelming topic of potty training. She explores why traditional methods, like the popular three-day approach, often fail and cause unnecessary stress for both parents and kids, and offers a mindset shift from potty training to potty learning. Jess helps you recognize the true signs of readiness and also breaks down how to tailor your approach based on your child's unique temperament—whether they are adaptable, sensitive, or strong-willed. Are you ready to shift from potty training to potty learning? Click here to check out our new course, Panic-Free Potty Training. Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First Head to nurturedfirst.com/bodysafety to learn more about our Body Safety & Consent course!

Impulse Control: What Every Parent Needs To Know (REVISIT)

This week, we are revisiting a previously aired episode. Jess and Scott dive deep into the science of impulse control in children, explaining why little ones struggle to control their impulses and how parents can effectively support this critical developmental process. They explore brain development across different age groups—from toddlers who are "completely run by impulses" to teens experiencing a rush of emotions while their logical brain struggles to catch up. Listeners will gain practical, science-backed approaches to help navigate impulsive behaviours, understand the "why" behind children's actions, and learn how to balance setting boundaries with maintaining the warm connection that makes children most teachable. This episode was originally released on June 2, 2025. Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First Head to nurturedfirst.com/bodysafety to learn more about our Body Safety & Consent course!

• Chapters

The Secret To Independent Play

In this short but packed episode, Jess dives into practical strategies to encourage independent play in children. She explains how foundational parent-child connection, combined with techniques like 'invitations to play' and creating a 'yes space', can naturally invite deep curiosity. Whether you are working from home this summer or just trying to reduce toy-related decision fatigue, tune in to discover how simple open-ended toys and a little bit of modelling can completely transform your family's daily routine! For more on how to be a playful parent, check out these episodes: How To Use Playfulness As A Powerful Parenting Tool How To Become A Playful Parent Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First Head to nurturedfirst.com/bodysafety to learn more about our Body Safety & Consent course!

4 Reasons Your Child Doesn’t Listen

Jess tackles one of the most common parenting questions: 'Why won't my child listen?' She breaks down the four main reasons kids struggle to follow directions and provides practical strategies and actionable advice on connecting before directing and holding firm boundaries. Tune in to discover how to reframe your child's behaviour and create a more cooperative, peaceful dynamic in your home. Want to hear more about being the trusted leader your child needs? Listen to How To Be The Leader Your Child Needs here. Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First Head to nurturedfirst.com/bodysafety to learn more about our Body Safety & Consent course!

How To Get Kids To Open Up

You ask how their day was and all you get is a shrug and "fine." The more questions you pile on, the more they shut down. In this episode, Jess shares the reflective-listening skills she uses to help anyone open up, along with the specific questions, rituals, and quiet moments of connection that actually get kids talking. You'll walk away knowing why interrogation backfires and exactly what to do instead. YOU'LL LEARN Why "How was your day?" almost always gets you a one-word answer The specific, detailed questions that get kids talking, and why they work better than open-ended ones How to use reflective listening, a core therapist skill, to help your child feel heard Why piling on more questions makes kids shut down, and can even lead to lying How to use connection and quiet moments, like car rides, to open the door to conversation How to build family rituals that make sharing feel safe and normal Get 10% OFF all parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First with code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email at podcast@robotunicorn.net or connect with us on Instagram. Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First DISCLAIMER The content provided is for educational and supportive purposes only. This is not a substitute for medical or therapeutic diagnosis or treatment. Views expressed by guests are theirs. If your child is at risk of harm or you need personalized guidance, please seek a qualified professional. #ParentingTips #GettingKidsToTalk #ConnectedParenting Head to nurturedfirst.com/bodysafety to learn more about our Body Safety & Consent course!

Self-Care for Burnt-Out Parents with Dr. Pooja Lakshmin

Jess sits down with psychiatrist and self-care expert Dr. Pooja Lakshmin. They explore how self-care isn't about bubble baths or spa days, but rather about setting boundaries, exercising compassion, and stepping out of the chronic fight-or-flight mode of parenting. Listeners will gain practical insights to help them with burnout. Want to hear more from Dr. Pooja? Connect on Instagram Sign up for her newsletter Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First Head to nurturedfirst.com/bodysafety to learn more about our Body Safety & Consent course!

The Truth About Shy Kids

In this episode of Robot Unicorn, Jess dives deep into the often misunderstood topic of supporting shy children. Listeners will learn the three main reasons children exhibit shyness and walk away with practical, compassionate strategies, such as the "step-back" method and role-playing, to help their slow-to-warm child navigate social situations. Whether you are raising a sensitive child or were a shy kid yourself, this episode offers the empowering insights and warm validation you need! Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First Head to nurturedfirst.com/bodysafety to learn more about our Body Safety & Consent course!

3 Reasons Your Child Misbehaves At School

In this episode, Jess explains the three most common reasons why kids struggle with behaviour at school. She shares common reasons kids act out at school, even when things are going well at home, and gives practical solutions to help parents and educators support children! Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First Head to nurturedfirst.com/bodysafety to learn more about our Body Safety & Consent course!

6 Things About ADHD Parents Need To Know

Today, Jess dives deep into a highly requested topic: Understanding and supporting the ADHD brain. Drawing from her clinical experience with neurodivergent children, she breaks down six crucial insights. If you want to understand the 'why' behind your child's behaviour and learn how to foster an environment where they can truly thrive, you won't want to miss this solo episode! Check out these episodes for more on supporting cognitive flexibility: Brain Stuckness: Why Kids Struggle With Flexibility (Part 1) Brain Stuckness: Reducing Power Struggles & Building Flexibility (Part 2) If you have a child with ADHD or you suspect your child may have ADHD, and you want to learn more about how you can support them, check out our new course: Parenting Your Child with ADHD. Get 10% OFF parenting courses and kids' printable activities at Nurtured First using the code ROBOTUNICORN. We’d love to hear from you! Have questions you want us to answer on Robot Unicorn? Send us an email: podcast@robotunicorn.net. Credits: Editing by The Pod Cabin Artwork by Wallflower Studio Production by Nurtured First Head to nurturedfirst.com/bodysafety to learn more about our Body Safety & Consent course!