Robot Unicorn

Nurtured First

Join me, Jess VanderWier, a registered psychotherapist, mom of three, and founder of Nurtured First, along with my husband Scott, as we dive deep into the stories of our friends, favourite celebrities, and influential figures.

In each episode, we skip the small talk and dive into vulnerable and honest conversations about topics like cycle breaking, trauma, race, mental health, parenting, sex, religion, postpartum, healing, and loss.

We are glad you are here.

PS: The name Robot Unicorn comes from our daughter. When we asked her what we should name the podcast, she confidently came up with this name because she loves robots, and she loves unicorns, so why not? There was something about the playfulness of the name, the confidence in her voice, and the fact that it represents that you can love two things at once that just felt right.

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121 episodes
Updated Today

Episodes121

Newest first

Today · 19 min
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!
July 27 · 28 min
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!
July 20 · 22 min
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!
July 13 · 54 min
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!
July 6 · 14 min
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!
June 29 · 26 min
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!
June 22 · 22 min
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!
June 15 · 36 min
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!
June 8 · 25 min
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!
June 1 · 31 min
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!
May 25 · 36 min
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!
May 18 · 32 min
Why Kids Struggle to Sleep (And How To Help Them)
In this episode, we break down the most common reasons children struggle with sleep and share gentle, effective ways to help them rest better. You’ll learn what’s normal, what may be disrupting your child’s sleep, and how to create healthier sleep habits without harsh sleep-training methods or leaving your child to cry alone. If you’re tired, overwhelmed, and searching for realistic sleep support that actually feels good as a parent, this conversation is for you. Want to learn more about supporting your child with sleep? Podcast Episode: “You Really Want To Talk About Sleep Training!?" Nurtured First Blog: https://nurturedfirst.com/blog/ Nurtured First Course: Solving Bedtime Battles 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!
May 11 · 30 min
How To Be Firm Without Yelling
In this solo episode of Robot Unicorn, Jess tackles a common parenting struggle: How to find a middle ground between being passive and resorting to yelling. Tune in to gain practical insights that will empower you to break negative cycles and lead your children with respect and calm authority. Learn more about our Parenting Little Kids course 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!
May 4 · 1 hr 6 min
Getting Honest About New Motherhood With Libby Ward
Jess sits down with guest Libby Ward to discuss her highly anticipated new book, Honest Motherhood. Themes covered include: Raising a sensitive baby, learning how to be a parent after a traumatic childhood, postpartum anxiety, and more. Tune in for an incredibly raw, validating conversation that will help you drop the heavy facade of the 'perfect mom' and learn how to find yourself. Want to hear more from Libby? Connect on Instagram Connect on TikTok Connect on Facebook Order her new book: Honest Motherhood: On Losing My Mind and Finding Myself 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!
April 27 · 22 min
Why “Stranger Danger” Doesn’t Protect Kids (Part 3)
CW: Abuse, child sexual abuse, grooming In this final episode of our 3-part series on child sexual abuse, Jess and Scott dive into practical steps parents can take to protect their kids. Listeners will walk away with valuable tools, including easy conversational games to play with children and tips for recognizing behavioural red flags. 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!
April 20 · 37 min
The Truth About How Child Abuse Stays Hidden (Part 2)
CW: Abuse, child sexual abuse, grooming In Part 2 of this critical series on child sexual abuse, hosts Jess and Scott delve into the dark realities of child abuse and the manipulative process of grooming. Jess and Scott debunk dangerous myths while providing parents with practical red flags to look out for. Tune in to empower yourself with the vital knowledge needed to protect your children and identify unsafe environments before they escalate. If you want to learn more about how to proactively teach your child about body safety and consent to reduce their risk of abuse, check out these other episodes: How Can I Protect My Kids From Sexual Abuse? How To Teach Kids About Body Safety and Consent: Tricky People, Secrets, and Safety Plans 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!
April 13 · 24 min
What Parents Need To Know About Grooming: Protecting Kids (Part 1)
CW: Abuse, child sexual abuse, grooming In this heavy but crucial episode of Robot Unicorn, hosts Jess and Scott tackle the difficult reality of childhood sexual abuse and the grooming process. We break down why abusers are overwhelmingly people the child already knows and trusts, completely dismantling the outdated 'stranger danger' myth. Listeners will gain vital insights into how abusers manipulate power dynamics and learn actionable ways to use body safety education as a powerful shield. Join us for an empowering conversation designed to help you recognize red flags and proactively protect the children in your life. If you want to learn more about how to proactively teach your child about body safety and consent to reduce their risk of abuse, check out these other episodes: How Can I Protect My Kids From Sexual Abuse? How To Teach Kids About Body Safety and Consent: Tricky People, Secrets, and Safety Plans 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!
April 6 · 45 min
Stop Letting the Scale Dictate Your Worth With Dr. Rachel Goldman
In this insightful episode of Robot Unicorn, Jess sits down with clinical psychologist Dr. Rachel Goldman, author of 'When Life Happens.' They explore the empowering concept of body neutrality and discuss why the cultural pressure of toxic body positivity might actually be holding us back. Dr. Rachel unpacks the complexities surrounding GLP-1 medications, the rising impact of social media on orthorexia, and practical CBT tools for reframing our most anxious thoughts. Listeners will walk away with actionable strategies for embracing their bodies' functions, challenging negative self-talk, and modelling a healthy body image for their children. Tune in to discover why it is perfectly okay not to love your body every single day! Want to hear more from Dr. Rachel? Connect on Instagram https://www.drrachelnyc.com/ Order her new book: When Life Happens 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!
March 30 · 35 min
Brain Stuckness: Reducing Power Struggles & Building Flexibility (Part 2)
This week, Jess and Scott talk about how to reduce power struggles and brain stuckness. You'll gain crucial insights into why toddlers can't self-regulate, how 'radical honesty' diffuses tension, and why over-explaining rules can actually invite more defiance. Tune in to learn how to speak your child's language through play and become a more confident, trusted leader in your home. Check out these Robot Unicorn episodes for more on the impact of screens, social media and gaming on our kids: How To Create Healthy Screentime Habits with Dr. Michael Robb (12/15/2025) The Impact Of Social Media, Gaming And Smartphones On Kids (6/9/2025) 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!
March 23 · 39 min
Brain Stuckness: Why Kids Struggle With Flexibility (Part 1)
In this episode of Robot Unicorn, Jess and Scott are joined by a very special guest—their 5-year-old daughter—who shares a story about her brain getting stuck on making a paper kite. The hosts dive into the fascinating concept of "brain stuckness," explaining why young children often fixate on a single idea and struggle with flexible thinking. Listeners will gain crucial insights into the "five-to-seven shift" in brain development, helping parents distinguish between intentional defiance and simple neurological stuckness. Discover why traditional logic often fails with kids and how understanding impulse control can help you parent with more empathy and grace. Tune in to transform your approach to toddler meltdowns and stubborn behaviour! 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!