Helping Families Be Happy

Love in Action: Implementing the Two-Minute Secret for a Happy Marriage with Heidi Poelman

The Two Minute Secret To Staying in Love, 12/08/2023

 

On today's episode of the "Helping Families Be Happy" podcast, host Christopher Robbins, co-founder of Familius Publishing, husband, father of nine, author, fisherman, backpacker, and aspirational musician based in the Central Valley of California, talks to Heidi Poelman. Heidi is an author of books such as "Women in Science Who Changed the World.” She holds degrees in communication from Brigham Young University and Wake Forest University, and has dedicated her time to writing, serving with a non-profit in Africa, and managing vacation rentals.

 

Episode Highlights:

• 02:00: Christopher introduces Heidi's book, "The Two-Minute Secret for Staying in Love," and discusses the honeymoon stage in relationships. Heidi elaborates on the initial chemistry in relationships, mentioning that researchers suggest this phase lasts about two years.
• 03:24: Christopher addresses the challenges in marriages and divorces, leading to a discussion on researcher John Gottman's insights. Heidi talks about bids for attention and their significance in predicting the success of a relationship.
• 06:02: Heidi introduces the concept of a "space between" in relationships, where actions either create connections or remove them.
• 7:20: Heidi outlines three areas for intentional skills and habits for building strong relationships: thoughts, words, and deeds. She emphasizes the power of positive thoughts about one's spouse, providing an example of giving the benefit of the doubt in thoughts.
• 8:50: Heidi discusses the impact of words in relationships, emphasizing the need for positivity. Christopher and Heidi explore the importance of balancing necessary dialogues with positive affirmations in words.
• 10:05: Christopher and Heidi discuss the positive impact of kind thoughts leading to kind words and actions. They emphasize the ease and effectiveness of expressing affection through simple acts like sending a text.
• 12:11: Christopher connects the concept of the two-minute secret to building a strong foundation in a relationship over time through repeated, conscious efforts.
• 13:38: Heidi highlights the importance of validation, quick forgiveness, and timely apologies in managing conflicts. She shares a personal experience of using the technique of summarizing each other's perspectives during an argument to enhance understanding and problem-solving.
• 14:51: Christopher and Heidi discuss the misconception of trying to "win" in a relationship and emphasize the importance of prioritizing the relationship over individual victories.
• 16:19: Heidi talks about not sweating the small stuff in relationships and shares the importance of finding humour in minor inconveniences. She suggests embracing imperfections, laughing about them, and creating a culture of kindness and service.
• 18:17: Heidi suggests asking your partner, "How do you feel loved?" as a powerful way to understand their unique needs and preferences.

 

Key Points:

1. Two-Minute secret for staying in love concept involves small, intentional actions in thoughts, words, and deeds, emphasizing the importance of conscious effort in relationships.
2. Acknowledging and engaging with your partner's attempts to connect can contribute to a healthier relationship.
3. Focusing on positive thoughts about your partner, using kind words, and performing thoughtful actions are foundational elements for maintaining a strong and lasting connection.

 

Tweetable Quotes:

• "In marriage, if you win, you lose. We shouldn't be trying to make our point to prove why we're right. We should be saying I'm going to let the relationship win." - Heidi Pullman
• "A powerful thing we can do is ask our spouse, 'How do you feel loved?' Having a culture of asking questions and seeking to understand each other is pretty powerful." - Heidi Pullman
• "Conscious, repeated effort over time makes a difference. It's not meant to say that being in love is easy, but that conscious effort over time can create a positive impact." - Heidi Pullman

 

Resources Mentioned:

• https://www.heidipoelman.com/

Books as Mirrors and Windows: The Power of Positive Representation with Christal Manders

On today's episode, host Dr. Carla Marie Manley, a clinical psychologist and author from Sonoma County, California, talks to Christal Manders a librarian and reading intervention specialist. Christal discusses how libraries and books offer exposure to new ideas, lifestyles, and the essence of a fulfilling life. She says Books are lauded for their role in broadening perspectives and fostering growth, compassion, and curiosity.

Episode Highlights:

• 01:10 Christal believes her identity is shaped by her supportive network of family and friends, which helps her be her best self.
• 03:46 Christal shares her fondness for nonfiction, drawing insights from historical accounts to improve current living and understanding.
• 04:49 Christal emphasizes the importance of seeing oneself in books from an early age, using texts as a mirror for self and others.
• 05:20 Christal describes her approach to finding the right book for someone, considering their interests and reading non-verbal cues like body language. She explains how she observes children's body language to understand their emotions and needs, choosing books that can support or uplift them.
• 07:43 Christal further elaborates on the importance of educators being attuned to their students' non-verbal communication to shape their day positively.
• 08:24 Christal discusses transitioning from classroom teaching to focusing on her role as a reading intervention specialist during the pandemic. She expresses her passion for getting kids excited about reading and seeing their potential through literature.
• 09:28 Carla queries about the impact of Christal's work on the family system of which Christal emphasizes the collaborative triangle of education, involving the educator, student, and family, and the importance of open communication in this dynamic.
• 11:20 Carla celebrates the potential for transformative experiences through reading and inquiries about Christal's book selection process for the library and classrooms.
• 12:09 Christal believes in the power of knowledge to combat fear and promote a better world through positive representation of different life experiences. She encourages continued reading and exploration for both children and adults.

 

Key Points:

1. Christal emphasizes that libraries play a crucial role in exposing individuals to new ideas and lifestyles, which can lead to personal growth, compassion, and curiosity.
2. As a reading intervention specialist, Christal focuses on igniting a passion for reading in children.
3. Christal underscores the importance of a collaborative educational triangle consisting of educators, students, and families, facilitating open communication and combined efforts towards educational goals.

 

Tweetable Quotes:

• "A book is a mirror and window rolled into one, reflecting who we are and revealing the endless possibilities of who we can become." - Christal
• "Nonfiction isn't just facts; it's a treasure trove of historical insights that help us navigate the present and envision a better future.”- Christal
• "Libraries aren't just about books; they're gateways to new worlds, offering a tapestry of ideas that can broaden minds and enrich lives." - Christal

Resources Mentioned

• Helping Families Be Happy Podcast Apple
• https://www.instagram.com/just.add.glitter/
• Podcast Editing

 

The Power of Pause: Mindfulness and Gratitude with Rachel Garahan

On today's episode of the "Helping Families Be Happy" podcast, host Christopher Robbins, co-founder of Familius Publishing, husband, father of nine, author, fisherman, backpacker, and aspirational musician based in the Central Valley of California, talks to Rachel Grahan about mindfulness for the new Year.

Rachel is an author and personal growth facilitator and through her brand, Rachel provides unique self-discovery tools, offering guided journals, meditations, online courses, and in-person workshops. Her approach helps individuals find clarity and inner answers. Rachel is also the author of "Nine Months of Wonder," a guide for expectant mothers.

 

Episode Highlights:

• 02:00 Rachel simplifies mindfulness as an "observant pause", emphasizing waking up to the present moment to fully appreciate it. She talks about her brand, tools for self-awareness, and mentions her free email course called "attuned".
• 03:03 Rachel dives deeper into self-awareness, discussing the significance of recognizing feelings, judgments, and emotions. She highlights the importance of understanding the underlying message of every emotion.
• 04:33 Mindfulness is about pausing to reflect on experiences and emotions to derive learnings from them, says Christopher. He emphasizes that it's about understanding what can be learned from current experiences.
• 05:09 Rachel introduces her four guiding words: Pause, Listen, Act, Become and describes how pausing allows for listening and understanding, leading to informed actions and eventually becoming a truer version of oneself.
• 06:23 Rachel asks reflective questions about addressing feelings of resentment and disappointment, urging one to understand their roots and find ways to feel better. She also talks about different emotions like frustration, annoyance, happiness, and excitement as pieces of information that guide our actions.
• 08:00 Christopher reflects on the broader context on a conflict in the car where his one daughter reacts strongly, and he reprimands her and asks Rachel for advice on how he could have better connected and responded in the situation.
• 09:35 Rachel touches on the influence of our upbringing and the need to reassess whether certain beliefs still hold true in the present day.
• 10:50 Christopher discusses the connection between mindfulness and gratitude, asking Rachel for her perspective on how the two concepts relate to each other.
• 11:28 Rachel reflects on her early 20s when she was more focused on the negatives and the things she didn't have and talks about the framework she created to identify which parts of her life needed improvement for her to be happier.
• 12:54 Rachel emphasizes the importance of being mindful of the present and finding gratitude in current moments. She shares personal examples of things she's grateful for, from pomegranate season to a new shampoo she loves.
• 14:19 Rachel describes the guided questions in her journal that help identify what her soul is craving and elaborates on how the journal informs her of areas in her life that need attention.
• 15:45 In the current societal context, with prevailing negativity, Christopher emphasizes the importance of practicing gratitude daily. He believes that gratitude can make a positive impact not only on an individual but also on the family, society, and the world.
• 16:13 Rachel introduces the tagline of "vessel," emphasizing the concept of a gratitude journal to "fill your own cup." She also stresses the importance of individuals recognizing and appreciating the abundance in their lives without waiting for external events or circumstances.
• 17:16 Rachel discusses her books: "Beauty Collected" which offers a means to connect with children through mindfulness, and "Nine Months of Wonder" centred around mindfulness during pregnancy.
• 18:05 Rachel suggests that even a single moment of pause and deep breath during the day can lead to a significant increase in awareness.

 

Key Points:

1. Rachel promotes mindfulness as an "observant pause" and provides tools for self-discovery.
2. The discussion highlights the link between mindfulness and gratitude, with Rachel introducing her gratitude journal, "vessel."
3. Rachel's books emphasize mindfulness with children and during pregnancy, underscoring the power of momentary awareness.

 

Tweetable Quotes

• "Mindfulness is simply an 'observant pause', waking up to fully appreciate the present." - Rachel
• "Gratitude is about recognizing the abundance in our lives without waiting for external events." - Rachel
• "Pause, Listen, Act, Become - four guiding words to lead us to our true selves." - Rachel
• "Even a single moment of pause can be a quantum leap in awareness." – Rachel

Resources Mentioned

• Helping Families Be Happy Podcast Apple
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelgarahan/
• Podcast Editing

Pen and Paper Therapy: Finding Healing Through Journaling with Mary Potter Kenyon

On this episode of the "Helping Families be Happy Podcast," host, Christopher Robbins husband and father of nine, residing in the Central Valley of California talks to Mary Potter Kenyon. She holds a BA in psychology from the University of Northern Iowa and is a therapeutic art coach and certified grief counselor trained under renowned grief expert David Kessler. Mary is also an author of six books, including "Expressive Writing for Healing," "Refined by Fire," and "Called to Be Creative." She conducts workshops on creativity, finding hope and healing in grief, and expressive writing.

 

Episode Highlights

• 01:56: Mary started journaling after her first husband passed away in March 2012 and has filled over 20 journals since then.
• 02:31: Christopher expresses curiosity about the significance of journaling, especially for those who may have started journaling as children with entries like "Dear Diary." He asks Mary to share the science behind journaling, its importance for personal development, and ways to develop the habit.
• 02:43: Mary reminisces about having a little diary with a lock and key when she was 12 but mentions that she got rid of it as she grew up.
• 02:58: Mary mentions the concept of expressive writing for healing, which is not about passing something down but rather a tool for personal healing.
• 04:42: The discussion highlights the therapeutic benefits of journaling and how it has been found to be effective in numerous studies and scenarios, making it a valuable tool for individuals facing a range of challenges and emotions.
• 06:05: Mary addresses common hurdles that people face when starting a journaling practice and she advices on how to begin and what to write about.
• 08:59: Journaling might not be a daily practice for everyone. It's okay to journal on weekends, once a week, or even less frequently, as long as it fits into your routine and serves as a beneficial outlet for your thoughts and emotions.
• 10:45: Christopher discusses the various journaling methods he has tried, from hardcover lined journals to leather-bound art paper journals to simple composition notebooks.
• 11:41: Christopher and Mary discusses whether using technology for journaling is a good or bad thing and explores the convenience and potential drawbacks of digital journaling apps.
• 13:19: Some people may prefer typing due to comfort or practical reasons, such as arthritis or illegible handwriting. Mary acknowledges that digital journaling can be a valid and accessible option.
• 15:02: Mary discusses the therapeutic and reflective benefits of journaling, even during periods of joy and contentment in life. 
• 17:22: Mary discusses the value of reading and preserving personal journals for future generations.
• 18:06: Mary shares her own experience of reading her mother's letters from the 1960s, which offer a glimpse into her mother's life as a mother raising ten children. She highlights how journals and letters can reveal a person's growth, struggles, and the different facets of their life beyond their roles as parents.
• 19:36: Mary and encourages listeners to consider starting their own journaling practice in the coming year, emphasizing that journaling is a low-cost and accessible way to document their experiences and emotions.

3 Key Points

1. Mary encourages the idea that journaling should be a freeing and expressive practice that suits your unique style and preferences. The key is to make it a personal space where you can process your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without worrying about judgment or rules.
2. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to journaling. It's about finding the time and style that work best for you and making it a meaningful and consistent practice in your life.
3. Mary and Christopher underscores the therapeutic and historical significance of journaling as a tool for personal growth and self-reflection.

Tweetable Quotes

• “Journaling is not a new practice it is historical documents that often exist because people kept journals or diaries. It's a way of preserving history.” – Mary
• “There are no rules in journaling. You don't have to worry about neat handwriting, perfect spelling, or adhering to specific guidelines. It's a personal space for your thoughts and feelings, and it's okay if it's messy.” – Mary
• Journaling can help individuals process their thoughts and emotions, whether they are going through difficult times or experiencing moments of gratitude and growth.” - Mary

Resources Mentioned

• Helping Families Be Happy Podcast Apple
• Podcast Editing

Breaking the ’New Year, New You’ Cycle: Body Positivity Wisdom with Emily Lauren Dick

On today's episode of the "Helping Families Be Happy" podcast, host Christopher Robbins, co-founder of Familius Publishing, husband, father of nine, author, fisherman, backpacker, and aspirational musician based in the Central Valley of California, talks to Emily Lauren Dick to discuss about body positivity for the new year.

 

Emily is a dynamic creative marketer and author of "Body Positive: A Guide to Loving Your Body." An ardent speaker and activist, Emily is deeply passionate about body image, women's issues, and dismantling shame. She's an advocate for ethical marketing and empowers individuals to fully embrace their authentic selves. Her insightful work has graced platforms like Glamour, Today's Parent, and Scary Mommy.

 

Episode Highlights

• 01:25 Christopher opens the discussion with Emily on her extensive work in the field of body positivity, especially as we enter a new year. They touch upon the common trend of setting physical goals like losing weight, seeking health and strength, and asks for her recommendation on the topic and ponders on the reasons behind society's obsession with physical goals.
• 01:50 Emily discusses the importance of shifting from the "new year, new you" mentality to focusing on a happy, balanced life. Highlights the significance of joyful movement and a balanced diet that's both enjoyable and nourishing.
• 02:28 Emily introduces the concept of "fat phobia" prevalent in society and defines "fat phobic" as the fear, hatred, or discrimination against fat bodies.
• 03:34 Emily recognizes that not everyone has the privilege of being in good health due to various reasons, including illnesses that might be out of one's control.
• 04:12 Christopher expands the query by seeking insight into the media's intentions and tactics regarding the portrayal and perception of body images.
• 06:16 Emily emphasis on the importance of brands not only promoting body inclusivity but also ensuring that their products cater to diverse body types. She notes that while Aerie showcases diverse body types in marketing, they do not have a vast size range in their products.
• 07:06 Christopher asks Emily for her recommendation to focus on positive ideas and practices concerning body image and awareness for the upcoming year.
• 08:59 Emily recommends engaging with communities that offer support, reading inspirational books, and consuming media (movies, podcasts) that have a positive impact on one's mental well-being.
• 09:42 Christopher notes the phrase "comparison is often the thief of happiness." He acknowledges the challenge that media and advertising present, as they often promote comparison between individuals.
• 10:20 Emily recommends comparing oneself only to previous versions of oneself to gauge personal progress. She says we are not the same as we were in the past, and it's essential to recognize our growth.
• 10:45 Emily suggests practical techniques, like starting a gratitude list, to help individuals reflect on their progress and accomplishments.

3 Key Points

1. Emily discusses how some products marketed under the pretence of promoting health can be harmful. Emphasizes the importance of promoting inclusivity and reducing societal pressures to fit a certain body type.
2. Emily encourages people to pursue both physical and non-physical activities that they are passionate about. She suggests engaging in activities that are enjoyable and make one feel good, emphasizing "joyful movement.
3. The conversation addresses the media's role in promoting thin ideals and inducing comparisons.

Tweetable Quotes

• “The promotion of thin ideals continues because it's a successful strategy.” - Emily
• "Shift from the 'new year, new you' mentality to focusing on a happy, balanced life." - Emily Lauren Dick
• "Joyful movement and a balanced diet are key to loving your body." - Emily Lauren Dick
• "Comparison is often the thief of happiness." - Christopher Robbins
• "Compare only to previous versions of oneself to recognize personal growth." - Emily Lauren Dick

Resources Mentioned

• Helping Families be Happy Podcast Apple
• Emily Lauren Dick
• Podcast Editing

Setting New Year’s Goals: A Guide for Overworked Moms with Denise Marek

On today's episode of the "Helping Families Be Happy" podcast, host Christopher Robbins, co-founder of Familius Publishing, husband, father of nine, author, fisherman, backpacker, and aspirational musician based in the Central Valley of California, talks to Denise Marek about managing goals and expectations for the New Year, especially tailored for the ever-busy, overworked mothers. 

 

Denise is internationally recognized worry management expert. Creator of the "Calm Methodology," Denise imparts strategies globally to combat stress and worry. She's penned the book "Calm for Moms Worry Less in Four Simple Steps" and runs an online program titled "Calm Online". Residing in Ontario, Canada, Denise is a mother to two and a grandmother to four.

 

Episode Highlights:

• 02:12 Denise emphasizes the importance of reflecting on the past year, listing down successes, challenges, and stressors. Advocates for jotting down everything without filtering.
• 03:02 Denise describes the first step in goal setting as identifying the problem one wishes to address or solve in the upcoming year. She introduces the concept of "mining the gold" which means digging deep to find one's true goals amidst doubts and frustrations.
• 03:37 Denise discusses two types of goals: those that free us from problems or challenges, and those that pull us towards something desirable.
• 04:20 Denise distinguishes between goals that move one away from problems versus goals that move one towards specific aspirations. She points out the weight loss industry as a prevalent example and how many set weight loss goals during New Year's.
• 05:22 Christopher introduces the topic of setting realistic and achievable goals and emphasises the challenges faced when enthusiasm meets setbacks, leading many to abandon their goals. He seeks guidance on setting goals that are both realistic and achievable.
• 07:05 Denise addresses the misconception of being "too late" to pursue certain goals, sharing her own experience of going back to college. She references a book called "The Gift of Fear" by Gavin de Becker, drawing an analogy between circus elephants' training and human self-limiting beliefs.
• 08:23 Denise emphasizes the importance of challenging the self-fulfilling prophecy of "I can't" and encourages revisiting past unachieved goals and trying again.
• 09:50 Denise shares four questions to navigate around self-imposed roadblocks, aimed at transforming a negative mindset to a solution-driven one.
• 10:41 Christopher brings up two memorable quotes that have influenced his perspective on determination and taking action and underscores the importance of determination in achieving our goals. He enquiries about methods to reduce stress, especially considering the challenges of the upcoming year.
• 12:08 Denise mentions the correlation between physical disorganization and mental disorganization. She suggests a principle: "I'm only going to keep what I need, use, or love." She discusses the common worries that hinder decluttering. People often hesitate because of the "I might need it someday" thought.
• 13:45 Instead of pondering on "what if I need it someday," Denise recommends asking "when is the last time I actually used it?" Experts believe if you haven't used an item in 12-18 months, it's likely not essential.
• 15:17 Christopher discusses the importance of accountability in reaching goals and asks for guidance on how to maintain self-accountability and reach one's objectives.
• 17:09 Denise stresses the importance of careful selection when choosing accountability partners and for those without immediate support systems, Denise suggests looking into apps, Facebook groups, and other communities of like-minded individuals to find support and encouragement.
• 18:51 Christopher reflects on the significance of acknowledging small achievements and milestones during the journey towards reaching a larger goal. Encourages focusing on small wins for motivation.
• 19:46 Denise emphasizes the significance of celebrating small victories. Encourages self-recognition and taking before-and-after photos to visualize progress. She advises on creating a structured plan for organization.
• 20:05 Denise suggests aligning celebrations with self-care and proposes the idea of getting a massage as a reward instead of indulging in alcohol, explaining that even small amounts of alcohol can affect sleep and overall well-being the following day.

 

Key Points:

1. Denise advises on the significance of reflecting on past successes, challenges, and stressors. Writing everything down candidly is beneficial.
2. Denise introduces two categories of goals: those that help individuals escape challenges and those that draw them towards something desirable.
3. Christopher and Denise discuss the crucial role of accountability in achieving goals and the significance of acknowledging and celebrating small achievements.

 

Tweetable Quotes

• "Reflecting on the past year is crucial; jot down every success, challenge, and stressor without filtering." - Denise Marek
• "In goal setting, 'mine the gold': dig deep to find true goals amidst doubts and frustrations." - Denise Marek
• "Don't be hindered by the 'I might need it someday' mindset. If you haven't used it in 12-18 months, it's likely not essential." - Denise Marek

 

Resources Mentioned

• Helping Families Be Happy Podcast Apple
• https://www.denisemarek.com/
• Podcast Editing

Familius Family: A Sneak Peek into 2024 with the Helping Families Be Happy Podcast Team

In this episode of the "Helping Families Be Happy Podcast," host Ashley Marie Mireles-Guerrero introduces the Familius team and provides listeners with exciting insights into what to expect in 2024 from both the podcast and the Familius publishing company. The episode features various team members, including Christina from the accounting department, Carlos, the in-house designer and administrator, Brooke, the editorial director, Shae, the blog editor, and the marketing team represented by Adina, Erica, and McKay. Together in this special end-of-the-year episode they share a bit about traditions. Tune in to learn more about the Familius team and their plans for the future.

Episode Highlights:

• 01:41: A favorite episode is highlighted, featuring Devin Mevis, an educator and artist, titled "Adding Creativity to Your Daily Routine." The episode focused on how families can integrate creativity into their daily lives.
• 02:04: The concept of "process art" is discussed, which encourages children to engage in art without specific instructions, instead exploring and creating with available materials.
• 03:24: Emily Liebel's concept of "Micro Adventures" is highlighted. These are simple, nature-based activities with a specific goal, often prepared by reading related literature and involving games or projects.
• 04:46: Another favorite episode discussed is "From Summer Freedom to School Screens," focusing on the increasing integration of screens and technology in education. The episode addressed the challenges and opportunities this shift presents for parents and children.
• 07:26: Paul Mandelstein's book, "World's Best Dad During and After Divorce," is mentioned, emphasizing its focus on helping fathers navigate post-divorce parenting.
• 08:39: A behind-the-scenes moment is shared about the process of finding illustrators for two upcoming books, "Call Your Mother" and "Robots Don't Make You Go to Bed” and the conversation shifts to the podcast's affiliation with a book publishing company.
• 10:50: Another book, "How Does Our Food Grow?" is discussed. It's a collaborative effort with the UN Organization Kitchen Connection, aimed at educating children about fruits, vegetables, and gardening.
• 11:56: A memorable moment from the book's launch in New York is shared. The impact of the book on young readers, particularly two girls who read it at the event, is highlighted, emphasizing the book's influence in fostering a mindful attitude towards our planet.
• 12:41: The podcast transitions to discussing holiday traditions. A favorite holiday tradition involving leaving out cookies and eggnog for Santa is shared, along with a unique twist of mixing eggnog with chocolate milk.
• 15:31: A tradition of celebrating Christmas on Christmas Eve is shared, which is common in Hispanic or Mexican cultures. Tamales are highlighted as a favorite holiday food, along with enjoying "Die Hard" as a Christmas movie.
• 18:32: A family tradition involving multicultural food nights leading up to Christmas is shared. The speaker's family, with roots in the United Kingdom, Spain, Korea, and India, celebrates each culture through special meals and activities.
• 21:32: The conversation shifts to New Year's superstitions and traditions and a tradition of wearing certain colors on New Year's for different wishes, such as wealth or health, is shared.
• 23:56: A unique New Year's tradition of a polar plunge in the family pool at midnight is described. This test of courage also includes a reward of $10 for the person who can stay in the freezing water the longest, ensuring they don't start the new year with an empty wallet.
• 25:06: A tradition involving cheers with sparkling cider on New Year's Eve is discussed, emphasizing the importance of this ritual for good luck in the coming year.
• 29:22: The discussion continues with a playful comment on considering macarons as a meal and a Girl Scout troop leader shares her New Year's resolution to get certified for overnight camping to fulfil her troop's wish for a camping trip.
• 31:44: The conversation shifts to upcoming books for 2024. Speakers share their excitement for various titles, including "100 Words for Little Utahns," and another book about spicy food.
• 34:10: A picture book titled "The Blue Canoe" is highlighted which explores the relationship between a mother and daughter, with the mother expecting a new baby, and uses metaphorical visual storytelling to convey the mother's love.
• 35:25: Another upcoming book, "Nine Months of Wonder," a guided journal for expecting mothers, is discussed. The journal focuses on the mother's experiences during pregnancy, capturing hopes, dreams, and the support system around her.
• 37:42: "Raising Tiny Humans" is mentioned as an anticipated book, especially for parents of toddlers, offering fun and practical advice.
• 39:17: The book "Three Kings Day" is brought up, notable for being one of the first books to be released in English and Spanish simultaneously by the publisher.
• 40:09: The discussion shifts to ways of giving back to communities outside the traditional holiday season. Suggestions include donating books to libraries or organizations, participating in small acts of service, and contributing to literacy initiatives like the Imagination Library.
• 44:06: The importance of involving children in charitable activities is emphasized. Speakers encourage finding meaningful ways to give time and resources, and to involve children in these activities, such as packing bags for food pantries or resources for people in need.
• 45:48: The conversation shifts to recognizing team members for their exceptional work. Shoutouts are given to various team members for their contributions, including McKay for starting a YouTube Kids channel and being innovative in social media.
• 47:08: Ashley is acknowledged for her role as the backbone of the company, being a knowledgeable marketing leader, and for her familiarity with many platforms, authors, and writing her own books.
• 49:47: Ashley expresses gratitude for the accolades and gives a shoutout to Christina for quickly learning and efficiently handling an outdated accounting system.
• 50:58: Brooke, the editorial director, is commended for her crucial role in the book creation process, starting from the initial scripts, highlighting the long process some books undergo before publication. Recognition is also given to Shae for her excellent work with the blog and newsletter, and to Carlos for his responsiveness in providing needed files to the marketing team.

3 Key Points:

1. The podcast featured episodes emphasizing creativity in family routines, like "Adding Creativity to Your Daily Routine" by Devin Mevis, focusing on process art for children. Another episode, "From Summer Freedom to School Screens," discussed the integration of screens in education, exploring the balance between technology and learning.
2. The podcast highlighted various family traditions, including multicultural food nights, celebrating Christmas Eve, and unique New Year's customs like a polar plunge. Personal New Year's resolutions shared by the speakers included enhancing culinary skills, being less controlling, and exploring new cuisines.
3. Speakers shared their excitement for upcoming books like "The Blue Canoe" and "Nine Months of Wonder." The segment concluded with team members expressing gratitude and appreciation for each other's contributions, particularly acknowledging Ashley for her versatile role in the company and successfully managing numerous responsibilities.

Tweetable Quotes:

• "Process art encourages kids to explore and create without specific instructions, unlocking their creativity in everyday life."
• "Micro Adventures: Simple, nature-based activities with a specific goal, enhancing family bonding and connecting with nature."
• "The Blue Canoe: A picture book that beautifully explores the relationship changes between a mother and daughter when expecting a new baby, using metaphorical storytelling."
• "Giving back isn't just for the holiday season. Small acts like donating books or volunteering time can make a big difference in your community year-round."

Resources Mentioned

• Helping Families Be Happy Podcast Apple
• Podcast Editing

Literary Liberties: Balancing Freedom to Read and Parental Concerns with Sarah Smith

On today's episode of the "Helping Families Be Happy" podcast, host Christopher Robbins, co-founder of Familius Publishing, husband, father of nine, author, fisherman, backpacker, and aspirational musician based in the Central Valley of California, talks to Sarah Smith; a distinguished district librarian from California's Central Valley about books and the current book banning trend within the United States. 

 

Having served as a high school librarian and English teacher, Sarah's passion now extends to professionally reviewing manga and graphic novels for esteemed publications like Booklist and School Library Journal. she has penned articles for California English and Diamond Bookshelf, enhancing our understanding of the written word. Her voice has enriched podcasts such as School Librarians United and The Literacy Advocate, and her expertise has been showcased at conferences hosted by the American Library Association and the School Library Journal Summit.

 

Episode Highlights:

• 01:58 Christopher opens the dialogue with a reflection on the current state of book banning and censorship in the United States, emphasizing its unprecedented scale and acknowledges the need to balance the protection of our right to read with parental concerns over potentially objectionable content.
• 02:34 Statistics reveal a significant rise in challenged titles in libraries, with a shift towards collective challenges on multiple books rather than individual titles.
• 04:22 Sarah describes the issue of book banning as a significant element in a wider cultural conflict, particularly as a means to challenge public education. She notes that the pandemic, by bringing school into the home, gave some parents a closer look at educational content, which has spurred a pushback against certain materials.
• 05:27 Sarah reveals a startling statistic from a recent study showing that a majority of the book challenges can be traced back to a relatively small number of individuals, suggesting the influence of a vocal minority rather than a widespread movement.
• 07:38 Christopher seeks Sarah’s insight on how parents can address concerns about content their children are exposed to in school libraries.
• 09:06 Sarah touches on regional differences in content appropriateness, particularly within California's diverse political landscape. She discusses the challenges librarians face in ensuring age-appropriate content and the reliance on various tools and resources to assist in book selection.
• 10:49 The goal of reconsiderations process is to approach concerns objectively and fairly, without succumbing to emotional or biased judgments, says Sarah.
• 11:56 Christopher clarifies the objective criteria in place for parents to submit concerns about content and the inclusive review process involving various community members.
• 13:19 Christopher discusses the variability of policies across districts and states, and the importance for parents to be informed about their school’s specific policies.
• 13:35 Sarah advises parents to check school board policies on their school's website, typically found under the instruction section, to understand the policy regarding book challenges.
• 14:26 Sarah emphasizes the importance of civility when parents address concerns with schools, suggesting that a polite approach is more effective.
• 16:34 Sarah introduces the idea of parents discussing content limitations directly with libraries, potentially preventing the need for book removals. She shares a personal anecdote about respecting a parent's request to restrict specific genres for their child and notes that this is a right parents have.
• 18:51 Christopher also discusses cultural literacy, encouraging exposure to a broad range of literature, music, and film to enrich children’s understanding of the human experience.
• 20:10 On constitutional aspect, Christopher questions how current cultural conflicts and legislation align with the freedom of speech and the freedom to read as guaranteed by the First Amendment.
• 21:27 Sara mentions guidance issued by the California District Attorney in June, reminding schools of their obligation to follow due process when considering the removal of books, underlining potential consequences for failing to do so.
• 22:46 Christopher inquiries about historical precedents for comic censorship, leading to a discussion on the Comics Code Authority established in response to accusations that comics were contributing to juvenile delinquency.
• 23:40 Sara explains the self-regulatory measures of the comics industry to avoid Congressional censorship and how the 1980s saw a shift with publishers choosing to ignore the Comics Code to produce content for mature audiences.
• 25:54 Sarah stresses the diligence that goes into selecting books for libraries, pointing out that professional reviews are a resource for librarians and can be a tool for parents as well. She mentions that professional reviews are available for parents to check if a book is age-appropriate and suggests that these resources can also guide parental choices.
• 28:16 Christopher discusses the importance of trade publications in the library collection development process and their availability on platforms like Amazon.

 

Key Points: 

1. Christopher and Sarah explore the concerning trend of book banning in the U.S., discussing the need to find a balance between protecting the freedom to read and addressing parental concerns over certain educational content.
2. Sarah offers insights on the book selection process in libraries, emphasizing the role of professional reviews and trade publications to ensure age-appropriateness, and suggests that direct communication between parents and libraries can pre-emptively address content concerns.
3. The conversation also addresses the constitutional implications of book banning, historical censorship in comics, and the importance of cultural literacy, underscoring the significance of due process and civility in the discourse around library content and book challenges.

 

Tweetable Quotes:

• "Unprecedented scale of book banning in the U.S. calls for a balance between our right to read and addressing parental content concerns." - Christopher Robbins
• "A vocal minority, not a widespread movement, often drives the rise in book challenges." - Sarah Smith
• "Civility and direct communication with libraries can address content concerns more effectively than book removals." - Sarah Smith
• "Cultural literacy is enriched by exposure to a broad range of literature, music, and film." - Christopher Robbins

 

Resources Mentioned

• Helping Families Be Happy Podcast Apple
• https://www.graphiclibrary.org/about-me.html
• Podcast Editing

The Thankful Heart: Exploring Gratitude with Richard Eyre

On today's episode of the "Helping Families Be Happy" podcast, host Adina Oberman will discuss the topic of "Attitude of Gratitude" with Richard Eyre, who is one-half of the renowned author duo, Richard and Linda Eyre.

 

With a writing career spanning four decades, the Eyers are New York Times #1 best-selling authors who have appeared on major national talk shows, including Oprah and Today. Their books, which emphasize family and relationships, have been translated into multiple languages and have garnered them opportunities to lecture in over fifty countries.

 

Episode Highlights

• 02:31: Richard mentions his experience writing for well-known publishers such as Simon and Schuster, Random House, McGraw Hill, Penguin, and Golden Books. He expresses personal dissatisfaction with the bureaucracy of some major publishers.
• 03:17: Richard expresses a desire for a publishing partner rather than just a publisher due to the inconsistent treatment they received based on the success of their books.
• 04:20: Richard provides a brief history of the book on gratitude, mentioning its original title as "The Thankful Heart" and describing it as a comprehensive exploration of the philosophy of gratitude.
• 04:51: Around 30 years ago, Richard's family started sending Thanksgiving cards instead of Christmas cards. Richard would write a poem about gratitude to be included in these cards.
• 05:44: Richard introduces a book called "Thankful Heart" which later was condensed into a gratitude journal called "Daily Thanks." The "Daily Thanks" gratitude journal has a section for each month, starting in November and each month has a different theme or focus for gratitude.
• 06:12: Richard shares a quote from the book which emphasizes that gratitude is essentially a form of happiness that we can control.
• 08:18: Richard speaks about the evolving nature of gratitude, and how the journal has different perspectives for each month. He shares his personal experience with the journal and describes how January in the journal is about becoming more aware of one's senses and writing about new sensations each day.
• 10:13: Richard stresses the importance of self-care, especially for mothers who tend to neglect their own well-being while taking care of others. He shares a personal anecdote about advising a stressed woman with young children to keep a gratitude journal.
• 12:16: Richard discusses the challenges of staying positive during tough times and the importance of gratitude in shedding a positive light on life. He emphasizes that even amidst challenging days, finding just one thing to be grateful for can shift the perspective to a more positive one.
• 13:21: Richard discusses the different approaches people take to gratitude journaling, mentioning that many choose to practice it at night, reflecting on their day. He shares the perspective of those who practice it in the morning to set a positive tone for the day.
• 14:59: Adina agrees with Richard's points, highlighting the challenge of finding a starting point and carving out time for gratitude in one's daily routine.
• 15:43: Richard talks about his experience of transitioning from sending Christmas cards to sending Thanksgiving cards and emphasizes the innate ability of children to express gratitude and how they can teach adults to be more appreciative.
• 17:09: Richard reflects on the beauty of late autumn in Park City, UT and shares a poem from the Gratitude Journal for the month of November. The poem beautifully captures the essence of gratitude and reflection during the autumn season, leading up to Thanksgiving.
• 18:25: Adina speaks about the importance of being mindful and grateful amidst daily responsibilities and highlights the idea of sharing and how it affects perspective.
• 20:13: Richard links gratitude to Christmas and explains a family tradition: giving gifts on Christmas Eve focuses on gratitude, while Christmas morning is about receiving from Santa Claus.
• 21:57: Christmas can be used as an opportunity to teach gratitude. Richard recounts how his family used to write thank-you letters to Santa Claus the day after Christmas.
• 22:42: Richard stresses the importance of gratitude. Suggests sitting down with children before gift-giving occasions to teach them the value of being grateful to make both the gift giver and the receiver feel happy.
• 24:43: Adina narrates an incident where they donated toys to an empty donation box, which was a special moment of realization and gratification for both the adults and the kids in her family.
• 25:24: Richard discusses the profound connection between gratitude and generosity, emphasizing that the two are inseparably linked and explores the contrast between gratitude and an entitlement attitude highlighting how developing gratitude in children naturally leads to developing generosity.

 

Key Points:

1. Richard Eyre emphasizes the "Attitude of Gratitude" through practices like sending Thanksgiving cards and gratitude journaling.
2. Richard believes gratitude is a controllable form of happiness and stresses its importance for well-being.
3. Richard highlights the connection between gratitude and generosity and suggests ways to nurture these values in children.

 

Tweetable Quotes

• "Gratitude is essentially a form of happiness that we can control." - Richard Eyre
• "Even amidst challenging days, finding just one thing to be grateful for can shift the perspective to a more positive one." - Richard Eyre
• "The profound connection between gratitude and generosity shows that developing gratitude in children naturally leads to developing generosity." - Richard Eyre
• "Amidst daily responsibilities, it's crucial to be mindful and grateful; it affects our entire perspective on life." - Adina Oberman

 

Resources Mentioned

• Helping Families Be Happy Podcast Apple
• https://valuesparenting.com/
• Podcast Editing

 

Capturing Canine Joy: Holiday Photography Tips with Diana Lundin

Diana Lundin and Pets, 10/25/2023

 

On today's episode of the "Helping Families Be Happy" podcast, host Adina Oberman, talks to Diana Lundin discussing holiday photography with your pets. Diana, who transitioned from a career as a TV producer, reporter, and website editor, rediscovered her passion for photography, particularly in the pet genre. She is the author of the popular gift book "Dog vs. Ice Cream," capturing the humorous expressions of over 400 dogs indulging in ice cream. Starting in 2014, Diana initiated ice cream socials for dogs, a delightful trend that gained traction in Los Angeles. Beyond conventional pet photos, Diana showcases her composite art talents on "The Secret World of Pets" website, where she places pets in imaginative, fantastical worlds.

 

Episode Highlights

• 02:32: Diana shares that it's not too difficult to include a dog in a family photo with a professional photographer. She emphasizes the importance of speed and timing, using noise to get the dog's attention, and making sure the family also focuses on the camera.
• 03:41: Diana mentions potential distractions and how to overcome them, including using a person behind the photographer to get the dog's attention. She also talks about the advantage of phone cameras with progression features to find the perfect frame in a sequence of shots.
• 04:30: Adina queries about the use of treats or props for photo sessions, mentioning her own food-motivated dog. She also discusses the importance of patience when photographing pets.
• 05:35: Diana describes her collection of various hunting calls like those of wild boar, rabbits, and owls. She demonstrates how she uses squeakers near her camera to grab the pet's attention briefly. If noise or toys don't work, she then resorts to using treats.
• 06:52: Diana mentions peanut butter as a fun treat to get amusing facial expressions from dogs, especially the "ice cream look".
• 07:58: Adina appreciates Diana's approach to understanding both the pet and the family during a photoshoot and discuss about holiday accessories and props for pets.
• 09:18: Adina and Diana showcase various holiday-themed props including reindeer ears, an elf hat, and a Hanukkah bow tie. Diana talks about the props she uses, including a red Buffalo and the importance of making sure pets are comfortable with the props.
• 11:03: Diana talks about collaborating with a then-upcoming ice cream truck for humans during the dog ice cream socials. She also describes the exciting atmosphere during the event, with people inviting their friends to join the fun at the pet store.
• 12:06: Diana talks about starting dog ice cream socials in her yard in 2014. She mentions a viral video about a dog named Cooper at McDonald's which inspired her. Diana finds it equally entertaining when dogs dislike the ice cream. Their expressions are human-like, showcasing a range of emotions.
• 14:23: Dogs' reactions to the ice cream vary from loving it to hating it, making for a comedic experience, says Diana. Owners enjoy seeing their pets in such a unique scenario, especially captured in professional photographs.
• 15:01: Diana talks about her aim to create dramatic photos that help in dog adoption. She expresses her passion to serve animal welfare and looks for collaborative projects.
• 17:21: Adina praises Diana's efforts in blending her passion for photography with her love for animals to serve a greater cause. Adina asks about recent highlights since her book "Dogs vs. Ice Cream".
• 19:26: Diana shares her experience of photographing dog and cat toys, creating still life with them, and the creative satisfaction it brought her. Diana also talks about dog toys that she photographs and mentions feedback from her mentor about color schemes.
• 20:33: Diana talks about her role as a judge in an international pet photography competition and expresses how much she learned from judging the competition and her gratitude for the experience.
• 21:58: Diana elaborates on the demanding process of critiquing and mentions that there were 2200 entries, each receiving two pieces of critique from the judges. She shares her approach to critiquing – offering a compliment, followed by constructive feedback, and then another compliment.
• 22:26: Adina points out the underappreciated intricacies of pet photography and compares the challenges of photographing pets to inanimate objects like fruit. She touches on the intricacies and challenges of pet photography, highlighting the difference between photographing animals vs. still objects.

3 Key Points

1. Diana stresses the importance of speed, timing, and using various distractions like noises, squeakers, and treats to capture the pet's attention. She also uses props to enhance photos and emphasizes ensuring the comfort of the pets while using them.
2. Diana initiated dog ice cream socials in 2014, inspired by a viral video. The events, where dogs react to ice cream, offer a mix of humorous and human-like expressions captured in professional photographs, adding a comedic touch to her portfolio.
3. Beyond just photography, Diana's passion also aligns with animal welfare. She aims to create dramatic photos to aid dog adoption and has also been involved in judging international pet photography competitions, offering constructive feedback to participants.

 

Tweetable Quotes

• "It's not too difficult to include a dog in a family photo with a professional photographer." - Diana Lundin
• "Dogs' reactions to the ice cream vary from loving it to hating it, making for a comedic experience." - Diana Lundin
• "Diana's aim is to create dramatic photos that help in dog adoption, blending her passion for photography with love for animals to serve a greater cause."
• "The underappreciated intricacies of pet photography highlight the difference between photographing animals vs. still objects." - Adina Oberman

 

Resources Mentioned

• Helping Families Be Happy Podcast Apple
• https://www.dianalundin.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/dlundin/
• Podcast Editing