The PAWsitive Choices Podcast
The PAWsitive Choices Podcast helps parents, educators, and anyone interested in relationships learn how to support children in making positive choices, solving problems, and managing emotions. Host Lindsey Kealey, a social and emotional learning specialist, shares brain-based strategies and neuroscience insights to promote resilience and strengthen connections. Each episode offers practical advice for parenting and teaching, with new episodes every Tuesday.
Episodes
Transform Meltdowns into Connection: Connect, Calm, and Collaborate
Have you ever sat with a child in the middle of a massive meltdown over something small and thought, “How on earth do I pull them out of this storm?” Today, we're breaking down the 3 Cs of emotional regulation to help you navigate those tough moments.In this episode of the PAWsitive Choices Podcast, we explore the incredible power of empathy and how to truly show up for kids when their brains
Q-TIP: Why Their Behavior Isn't About You (And How to Protect Your Peace)
Are you exhausted by your child's public meltdowns, your teenager's attitude, or your partner's sudden bad moods? What if I told you that their behavior has absolutely nothing to do with you?In this episode of the PAWsitive Choices Podcast, we're exploring the brain science and psychology behind why we get so triggered by other people's overflow. We are learning how to Q-T
You Aren't Failing, Your Brain is Just Full (The Pom-Pom Jar)
Are you beating yourself up for dropping your New Year's resolutions? Are you losing your patience over tiny things and feeling guilty about it? It’s not because you're failing—it’s because your brain is at capacity.In this episode, we are talking about self-compassion, cognitive capacity, and how to give yourself (and your kids) grace when the demands of your environment exceed what you
The Heart of Resilience: Trauma-Responsive Lessons from Paper Tigers with Jim Sporleder
Resilience is not just a buzzword; it is a life-changing practice rooted in the power of human connection. In 2015, the documentary Paper Tigers changed the conversation about education and childhood trauma forever, and today, those lessons are more vital than ever.📺 Watch the full video version on YouTube! In this special episode of the PAWsitive Choices Podcast, I am joined by Jim Sporleder—the
The Power of Love: How to Truly Hear What Your Child is Telling You with Dr. Hokehe Eko
Happy Holidays, everyone! 🎄 This conversation with Dr. Eko is the perfect reminder to lead with love and focus on connection during this busy time of year.📺 Watch the full video version on YouTube! https://youtu.be/HWxqiUnuHmkHow do we truly hear what a child is trying to tell us? In this episode of the PAWsitive Choices Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Hokehe Eko—a board-certified pediatrician, ADHD/Au
PAWsitive Choices Update: Our Journey of Loss, Leukemia, and Resilience — Introducing The Brain it On! Podcast
In this deeply personal and long-awaited episode, we offer an update on our lives since our last regular PAWsitive Choices content. We share our journey navigating two profound family challenges that began almost simultaneously last year: my mother-in-law, Julie, was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer, and just three months later, my husband and co-host, Thomas, was diagnosed with leukemia.
Embracing Joy and Uncertainty: How to Lean Into Gratitude When Experiencing Joy Feels Vulnerable
When was the last time you felt a deep sense of joy? Perhaps you were hugging a loved one, watching your child play, or walking outside on a beautiful day. While joy can give birth to beauty, meaning, and happiness, joy can also remind us of the uncertainty and fragility of our lives. In this episode we explore how leaning into gratitude helps us embrace both joy and uncertainty. We'll find t
Clear Is Kind: How to Effectively Ask for What You Need
Asking for what we need is essential to cultivating healthy relationships. The problem is, we don't always know how to identify our needs and ask for them in ways that are effective. In this episode, we'll explore how you can be clear about your expectations and desires while also being kind and responsive to those around you. You can learn more about asking for what you need in Dr. Joh
Reality Checking Our Stories: How to Identify Unhelpful Thoughts and Shift to Healthier Patterns of Thinking
Have you ever found yourself imagining the worst case scenario? Have you jumped to conclusions about what someone thinks of your choices before asking them? These common thoughts, known as cognitive distortions, can contribute to the stories we make up about what's happening in our lives. In this episode we'll explore how you can identify unhelpful thoughts and shift to healthier pattern
We’re All Rough Drafts: How Our Assumption of Others’ Intent Influences Our Capacity for Connection and Our Quality of Life
In Bob Goff's book, Everybody Always, he says, "We're all rough drafts of the people we're still becoming." This simple, yet profound idea is foundational to way we view ourselves and others. In this episode we review the work of Tina Payne Bryson, Ross Greene, Becky Kennedy, Bob Goff, and Brené Brown to answer the question, "Are people doing the best they can?"
How Are You Empathizing? Understanding the Role of Cognitive and Affective Empathy in Maintaining Healthy Relationships
Compassion is vitally important to our relationships, but what should we do when caring for others takes a toll on our wellbeing? In this episode, we'll explore the difference between cognitive and affective empathy and ways you can care for others while maintaining healthy boundaries. You can learn more about empathy in Brené Brown's Atlas of the Heart book and find more information on
Becoming a Compassionate Coach: How to Treat Ourselves and Others With Kindness When We Make Mistakes
The content of this episode is available in video form via The PAWsitive Choices YouTube Channel. Check out our channel to watch the video recording of the podcast and subscribe so you never miss a video! In this episode, we'll explore ways you can become a more compassionate coach for yourself and others when mistakes are made. We'll learn what the science says about self-compassion an
Building the Courage to Learn New Things: How to Approach Stressful Transitions in New Seasons
The content of this episode is available in video form via The PAWsitive Choices YouTube Channel. Check out our channel to watch the video recording of the podcast and subscribe so you never miss a video! In this episode, we'll explore ways to build the courage to learn new things. Whether you're starting a new school year, a new job, or a new relationship, change can feel daunting. We&
Pediatrician and Brain Health Coach Dr. Hokehe Eko Talks About ADHD, Trauma & Ways to Love Your Brain
The content of this episode is available in video form via The PAWsitive Choices YouTube Channel. Check out our channel to watch the video recording of the podcast and subscribe so you never miss a video! In this episode we explore ADHD, trauma, and ways to love your brain with Dr. Hokehe Eko. Dr. Eko is a board certified pediatrician, the host of Brain Power TV, and the founder of Kits of Hope.
Choosing Curiosity Over Perfectionism- How to Approach Performance Tasks as Opportunities to Learn
The content of this episode is available in video form via The PAWsitive Choices YouTube Channel. Check out our channel to watch the video recording of the podcast and subscribe so you never miss a video! “What will people think?” When it comes to tasks like taking a test, playing a sporting game, and giving a speech, these four words often get in the way of learning. This common question can als
Reframing Stress- How to Rethink Stressful Events to Cultivate Calm
The content of this episode is available in video form via The PAWsitive Choices YouTube Channel. Click here to watch the video on our YouTube Channel and subscribe so you never miss a video! Do you experience anxiety with public speaking? Do you want to help a child who's worried about taking a test or performing well in a sporting event? In this episode we cover ways you can reinterpret bo
Reinterpreting Pain- How to Help Your Brain Cope With Discomfort
In this episode we explore the role that pain plays in the healing process. We learn what the science says about ways people interpret pain and discuss practical things you can do to help your brain cope with discomfort. Check out this calming breaths video for kids in English and Spanish! You can learn more about the glitter brain and other calming strategies in this video. Our newest book, Bear
Embracing Emotions- How to Hold Space for All Feelings and Withhold Judgments
In this episode we explore the importance of embracing all feelings and withholding judgments. We learn what the science says about how you feel about your feelings, also know as "meta-emotions." Finally, we go over practical tips to develop a healthy relationship with your feelings so children can do the same and develop emotional intelligence. To learn more about the science of meta-e
The Power of Gratitude
In this episode we explore the many health benefits of practicing gratitude. We learn what the science says about being thankful and give three tips to help you integrate gratitude practices into your daily life. To learn more about the science of gratitude, check out this article by Harvard Health Publishing and read about what experts at USC have discovered about gratitude's impact on the b
It's Quitting Time- Why We Overwork and How to Set Boundaries With Our Time
In this episode we explore why many of us feel as though we have too much to do and not enough time to do it. We also discuss strategies to help you prioritize your time and establish boundaries at your work. To learn more about ways to reclaim your time, check out this TED Talk by Harvard Business School professor, Dr. Ashley Whillans. Our newest book, Bear's ABC Book, is now available on A
Taco Tuesdays & Family Walks- How to Prioritize Connection & Why It’s Vital to Your Health
In this episode we explore how to integrate positive social connection into our daily lives. We explore the benefits of connection and risks of disconnection and give you tips to make connecting with your family a priority. Click here or visit https://www.pawsitivechoices.com/letstalk for a free connection activity for the whole family! You can watch our Let's Talk video and Connection Routi
We're in This Together- Expanding Our Understanding of Self-Regulation
In this episode we explore how to expand our understanding of emotional self-regulation to strengthen relationships and promote healthy coping skills across the lifespan. You can watch our healthy choices Youtube video and check out our other freebies. Links to all of our resources can be found at https://www.pawsitivechoices.com/links.To learn more about interpersonal neurobiology and the work of
Turn Towards Each Other- How to Honor the Need for Space While Maintaining Connection
In this episode we explore how we can honor one another's need for space while maintaining a sense of connection. To learn more about the power of turning towards instead of away from others, check out Dr. John Gottman's research. Our newest book, Bear's ABC Book, is now available on Amazon! You can find our other Amazon book, Pug Solves a Problem, here. Follow PAWsitive Choices on
Phones, Masks & The Need for Connection- How Connecting With Kids Is Needed Now More Than Ever
In this episode we explore how phones and facial masks are related to the need for connection and ways you can connect with children in the pandemic and beyond. Our newest book, Pug Solves a Problem, is now available on Amazon! You can find it here. Follow PAWsitive Choices on Instagram and Facebook or join our mailing list to stay up to date on our new books and other upcoming events. You can wat
The Power of Social Stories Part 2: Egocentrism & Empathy
We continue our conversation about using social stories to teach children valuable life lessons and build social skills. In this episode, we discuss the role of egocentrism in childhood and explore ways to help children build empathy in light child development research. Our newest book, Pug Solves a Problem, is now available on Amazon! You can find it here. Follow PAWsitive Choices on Instagram a
The Power of Social Stories Part 1: Create Curiosity
In this episode we explore how you can use social stories to teach children lessons and build social skills. We discuss how social stories can create curiosity, engagement, and an intrinsic motivation for learning. Our newest book, Pug Solves a Problem, will be available for purchase on Amazon on 4/28/21! Follow PAWsitive Choices on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date on the new book and ot
Problem Solving in Adulthood Part 2: Using Common Language
In this episode we continue our series about productive problem solving in adulthood. I'm joined with Thomas Kealey, my husband, as we explore how establishing a common language is essential to problem solving and strengthening relationships. We also share how this information has transformed our marriage over the years. The Glitter Brain Frame is a helpful tool we reference to communicate wh
Problem Solving in Adulthood Part 1: Curiosity and Generosity
In this episode we begin a new series about productive problem solving in adulthood. In this first episode of our new adulthood series, we explore the importance of curiosity and generosity when trying to understand where other adults are coming from when there’s a problem at hand. Listen to episode #3 of The PAWsitive Choices Podcast to learn more about the 3 Cs of positive connection. Tips for P
How to Productively Solve Problems With Children
In this episode we explore how you can take a productive approach, rather than a punitive approach, to solving problems with children. You can purchase the Problem-Solving Reflection digital download on our website for only $4.99 or practice the tips that are shared throughout the episode. Problem-Solving Reflection digital download: https://www.pawsitivechoices.com/store/positive-self-talk-activi
The Power of Positive Self-Talk
In this episode we explore ways to build shame resilience through practicing positive self-talk. You can purchase the positive self-talk digital activity cards on our website for only $4.99! Link to activity: https://www.pawsitivechoices.com/store/positive-self-talk-activity-cards-digital-download Follow PAWsitive Choices on Instagram and Facebook so you can take our poll to help make our next ep
Shame, Guilt, and Empathy
In this episode we continue to our conversation about discipline by exploring how shame, guilt, and empathy impact how we parent and teach. Be sure to listen to the end of the episode to learn tips you can implement today. Also, follow PAWsitive Choices on Instagram and Facebook so you can take our poll to help make our next episode more applicable to you! Below are links to the resources mentione
Defining Effective Discipline and Exploring Parenting Styles
In this episode we unpack the definition of discipline and explore different parenting styles and how these affect our children's lifelong wellness. Be sure to listen to the end of the episode to learn two tips you can implement today to help you develop a discipline philosophy and be intentional about how you parent and teach. Also, follow PAWsitive Choices on Instagram and/or Facebook so yo
How to Build Positive Relationships Through Collaboration & Executive Function Skills
In this episode we continue to unpack the 3 C's to building positive relationships and focus on the third C (collaborate). We explore how practicing collaboration strategies helps children strengthen their executive function skills, allowing them to think critically, control impulses, and solve problems. Be sure to listen to the end of the episode to learn the 3 tips you can implement today t
How to Build Positive Relationships Through Calming Practices & Emotional Intelligence
In this episode we continue to unpack the 3 C's to building positive relationships and focus on the second C (calm). We explore how practicing calming strategies helps children and adults connect and build emotional intelligence. Be sure to listen to the end of the episode to learn the 4 tips you can implement today to help you children feel calm and thrive. Also, follow PAWsitive Choices on
How to Build Positive Relationships Through Connection
In this episode we unpack the three C's to building positive relationships and focus on the first C (connection). We explore why using research-based strategies to strengthen relationships is important and how you can approach any situation in a way that helps both children and adults feel like they are on the same team. Be sure to listen through the end of the episode to learn the three spec
What Is PAWsitive Choices and Why Is Social and Emotional Learning Essential?
In this episode we describe why we created PAWsitive Choices, who we are, and the key ingredients to helping children and adults thrive socially and emotionally. To learn more about PAWsitive Choices, visit pawsitivechoices.com, follow us on social media, and check out the PAWsitive Choices YouTube channel. For questions and topics you'd like us to cover, email info@pawsitivechoices.com.
The PAWsitive Choices Podcast Trailer
Tune in every Tuesday for new episodes of The PAWsitive Choices Podcast!
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