Parenting Paused
233 episodes - English - Latest episode: 12 days ago - ★★★★★ - 19 ratingsParenting Paused presses PAUSE on those shame inducing parenting failures. It presses PLAY on your inner wisdom and the ability to be the parent you want to be. Join Leslie Potter, mother and founder of Purejoy Parenting, as she shares her personal experiences as well as works with other moms and dads in real time to show you the step-by-step process to turn your parenting around.
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Episodes
Ep. 230 Can you Trust Yourself?
July 02, 2024 15:41 - 5 minutes - 8.85 MBThis week let’s dive into one of my favorite topics. I always aimed to create an environment where my daughter could trust herself. But that became challenging when I wanted her to trust my experience, too. Like many of you, I have a lot of life experience, but making it the only truth made it hard for her to have her own experiences. Growing up with a bit of a disturbing childhood made it hard for me to trust my instincts in parenting. I wanted to do things differently and give...
Ep. 229 Summer is Almost Here!
May 28, 2024 18:22 - 5 minutes - 8.18 MBAs summer approaches, I can't help but feel nostalgic for the free, open summers of my childhood in Mississippi. 🌞 Back then, we'd hang out, ride our bikes, and our parents trusted us to be okay. Nowadays, times are different - with cell phones and constant tracking, there's a lot more structure and perhaps less freedom for kids. This summer, I'm challenging myself (and you!) to relax the structure a bit. Let's find time for unstructured play, for creativity to blossom from boredom, just l...
Ep. 228 Shaming and Blaming
May 21, 2024 18:40 - 6 minutes - 8.78 MBIn this week's episode of Parenting Paused, I found myself reflecting on the different approaches to parenting I've seen and experienced. I noticed a backlash against gentle and conscious parenting, as if kindness to children prevents them from behaving appropriately. I believe these perceptions stem from the ways we were parented ourselves. I chose a different path, one that felt kinder and more respectful of my daughter's individuality. I believe it's our job to guide our children in und...
Ep. 227 Overprotecting Your Child
May 07, 2024 00:00 - 5 minutes - 8.47 MBThis week on Parenting Paused I dive deep into the topic of overprotection. It's a parenting trait that's close to my heart and one I see many struggling with. Of course, you want your children to be safe, but are you shielding them too much? Are you preventing them from experiencing their feelings and thoughts, both good and bad, to avoid discomfort? I share my journey of learning to sit with my discomfort and supporting my child to navigate their own experiences. Remember, it's not about...
Ep. 226 I Need you To
April 23, 2024 03:11 - 5 minutes - 9.12 MBReflecting on our role as parents, we often express our needs to our children without realizing the pressure we put on them. This week, try flipping the script: instead of projecting your needs onto them. Ask your kids what they need. Understanding their needs can shift your relationships with them, reduce stress, and promote their own love and care for themselves. #Parenting #UnderstandingNeeds #HealthyRelationships
Ep. 225 What Happened to Your Mojo?
April 15, 2024 23:47 - 5 minutes - 8.78 MBOn this episode of our Parenting Pause podcast, I share my experiences and wisdom about losing my mojo! I dig deep into the challenges of parenting, the unrealistic expectations we often have, and the importance of treating ourselves with kindness. Remember, you are not expected to be a supernatural parent, but a human one who sometimes loses your mojo. Listen in for insights on maintaining your self-love and care as a parent. #ParentingPausePodcast #SelfCare #ParentingRealities
Ep. 224 The Root of Behavior
April 09, 2024 19:08 - 6 minutes - 10.6 MBJoin me on my latest episode of Parenting Paused where I dive deep into understanding your children's behavior. I encourage you to question common advice and seek to understand the root causes of behaviors such as hitting. The goal? To parent from your internal wisdom, not just expert advice. Don't miss out on this insightful episode! #ParentingPaused #UnderstandingBehavior #ParentingWisdom
Ep. 223 My Kid Always......
April 01, 2024 14:48 - 5 minutes - 7.24 MBDiscover the ever-changing nature of your children in this week's ParentingPause podcast. I delve into the challenges of getting 'stuck' in one perspective and how to broaden your vision to embrace all sides of your children's behavior. Just as spring brings constant change, so do your children. Tune in to explore how to navigate these changes and avoid black and white thinking.
Ep. 222 If Only...
March 26, 2024 01:30 - 6 minutes - 8.23 MBDiscover the profound preciousness in every moment of your parenting journey. Even when reality differs from our expectations or when challenges arise, remember that each experience has a unique, inherent value. It's not always about getting it 'right' or making things 'better'. Sometimes, it's about sitting in the present, acknowledging the full spectrum of human experience, and opening our hearts to find the beauty in the complex dance of parenting.
Ep. 221 Seeing Through Judgement
March 18, 2024 14:09 - 7 minutes - 10.4 MBThis week on Parenting Paused I'm delving deeper into the function of my judgments and how they serve me. What I discovered is that judgments often occur in the blink of an eye. After observing myself, I noticed that my judgments are like questioners, leading me back to myself. They can cover over the deeper wisdom I carry, especially as a parent. Instead of creating a whole story around a judgment, I suggest taking it inside, offering it kindness, and asking it a question. Then see if t...
Ep. 220 Do you Really Want Honesty?
March 11, 2024 14:00 - 6 minutes - 8.51 MBLet's talk about honesty in parenting. We often strive to teach our children to be honest, but how do we react when their honesty conflicts with our comfort? This week in the Parenting Paused Podcast I explore how your reactions might inadvertently teach your children to tell white lies to keep you comfortable. Tune in as we reflect on the importance of truly hearing your children's honest expressions and consider where you might be slipping into little white lies of your own. Join u...
Ep. 219 It's All About ME
March 04, 2024 15:48 - 6 minutes - 8.92 MBDiscover the intricate dynamics of parenting with my latest Parenting Paused podcast episode. I take you on a deep dive into how your reactions often say more about you than your children. Uncover the truth about how your responses to your children's behavior can be a mirror reflecting your own unresolved issues. This episode is all about learning to draw a line between what emotions belong to you and what belongs to your children. By doing this, you not only create healthier boundaries ...
Ep. 218 Moving from Worry to Wonder http://tinyurl.com/delightparenting
February 26, 2024 18:42 - 6 minutes - 9.12 MBExcited to share our latest episode of 'Parenting Pause' where I dive deep into the topic of moving from worry to wonder. I don't know about you but when my daughter was young I found myself consumed with worry about her future. Over time what I discovered was that I wasn't worried about her, I was feeling discomfort with where she was in her journey. It was a big aha moment when I discovered that I could shift my mindset to one of "wonder" instead of "worry". Tune in to discover how you...
Ep. 217 How is Your Foundation?
February 19, 2024 13:30 - 5 minutes - 8.17 MBImagine yourself supporting your children in building their internal house, and just like any house, it's crucial to have a stable foundation. But here's the thing - to support them in building a stable house your internal foundation is equally important. This week on Parenting Paused I share my personal journey of discovering that my own foundation was shaky, and how that affected my parenting. I learned that instead of focusing solely on supporting my daughter in creating a strong founda...
Ep. 216 How Do You Interpret Behavior?
February 12, 2024 14:00 - 6 minutes - 9.02 MBLet's dive into some thought-provoking ways to view our children. In this episode, you'll be challenged to explore the power of interpretations and conclusions in your parenting journey. Your experiences shapes your perspectives, and it's crucial to recognize how your conditioning and beliefs influence the way you interpret your child's behavior. I found it challenging to be present without jumping to conclusions and to truly listen to my daughter's feelings and expressions. Remember...
Ep. 215 What is Missing?
February 05, 2024 15:10 - 6 minutes - 9.53 MBIn this week's podcast episode, we explore the concept of believing something is missing in the present moment. As parents, it's easy to get caught up in wanting things to be different, constantly seeking what we believe is missing. But what if we took a step back and realized that everything we need is already here, in this very moment? Join me as we dive into the practice of letting go of expectations and finding joy in the now.
Ep. 214 It's Not Your Fault
January 29, 2024 14:38 - 6 minutes - 9.15 MBAre you feeling discomfort in your parenting journey? It's natural to want things to go well and to feel comfortable, but I found avoiding discomfort as a method for parenting led to a disconnect between my aspirations as a mom and my actual methods. Parenting involves both challenge and support, and it's important to embrace all experiences, not just the comfortable ones. In this week's episode of Parenting Paused, I guide you in exploring the topic of discomfort and how your own prog...
Ep. 213 Neediness Sucks
January 22, 2024 15:07 - 6 minutes - 8.81 MBThis week, I dive into a topic that you might relate to: NEEDINESS! I share my personal experience and insights on how to navigate this rather challenging aspect of parenting. My emphasis is on understanding and honoring your needs and how they are perceived by your child. Tune in to discover my unique approach and learn practical strategies for embracing and loving your needs.
Ep. 212 Coming Along Side Your Child to Self-Regulate
January 14, 2024 21:33 - 7 minutes - 9.98 MBAre you struggling with limiting your children's computer use? Here's a Purejoy take on the matter. Rather than being the enforcer of limits, how about empowering your child to discover their own boundaries? As a parent, I realized that my own experience of being constantly limited as a child led to resistance and a lack of self-awareness. Deciding to break that cycle with my own child, instead of imposing restrictions, I focused on supporting her self-regulation and helping her understand...
Ep. 211 Change is Always Happening
January 07, 2024 16:19 - 6 minutes - 8.37 MBHappy New Year, lovies! Does the New Year prompt personal reflections and inquiry? Today, put aside your resolutions and look to what is true now. Pause with me to wonder: Who are you in this beautiful moment? What magic is unfolding in your child's journey? What changes have you noticed in your parenting journey? How is it to honor the present moment and step into the future from a place of awareness? Join the conversation on this week's episode of Parenting Paused. Listen here.
Ep. 210 Caring vs Taking Care
January 02, 2024 16:17 - 6 minutes - 9.05 MBI found in my parenting journey that there's a delicate balance between caring for our children and unintentionally taking over. What might this balance look like? As a mama, I find my love knows no bounds. Even though, when my daughter was young, I wanted to shield her from pain, guide her through challenges, and see her thrive I found it challenging to separate out my desires from hers. I discovered that caring involved offering support, encouragement, and coming along side her when she ...
Ep.209 Influence vs Power Over
December 27, 2023 19:00 - 7 minutes - 10.1 MBFinding the sweet spot between power and influence is the dance of parenthood. It's about knowing when to step in and hold our personal boundary and when to step back, supporting our children in taking the space to explore, learn, and develop their own sense of self. Let's celebrate the power of awareness and influence—a force that lasts long after the rules are laid down. Here's to fostering connections, and guiding our children not just to follow our lead but with a love that shapes thei...
Ep. 208 Gift Giving and Receiving
December 17, 2023 14:12 - 6 minutes - 8.98 MBAs the holiday season approaches, I find myself reflecting on the beautiful dance between giving and receiving. This time of year isn't just about the twinkling lights and festive decorations; it's a celebration of the connections we share and the love we have to offer. There's something incredibly heartwarming about selecting that perfect gift, wrapping it with care, and witnessing the joy it brings to someone's face. Whether it's a thoughtful gesture, a homemade treat, or a simple act of...
Ep. 207 I'm so Disappointed
December 10, 2023 15:39 - 6 minutes - 8.51 MBDisappointment has been on my mind lately, and I imagine you can relate. There are some really great things that come along with parenting and yet it also has its share of disappointments. I often found myself wrestling with the weight of expectations. It's not easy admitting that the source of disappointment isn't external, rather it comes from within – from the expectations I set on myself as a mother and therefore for my child to fulfill those expectations so I felt good about myself. ...
Ep. 206 Playing Tag
December 03, 2023 16:22 - 8 minutes - 11.7 MBTag, You're it!Do you recall those words? The exhilarating start of the game tag! Everyone dashes, laughter echoing, as the chase begins. Let the adventure commence! The art of zigzagging, ducking, and weaving through the playground. Mastering the moves to avoid being tagged is an art form! The anticipation and anxiety! Spotting that safe base, your heart races as you make a beeline for it, dodging pursuers along the way. Finally you reach the safe base, pure bliss! The moment of vic...
Ep. 205 Preparing to go Home for the Holiday
November 27, 2023 15:39 - 6 minutes - 9.36 MBHey lovies! The holiday season is upon us, and that means family gatherings. Ever found yourself at odds with more traditional family values while consciously parenting? I've been there. I used to get defensive about my parenting style, convinced it was the only right way. But here's the shift – realizing it's okay to have different values. When heading to family events, I'd prep my daughter on their expectations, like manners, which were a big deal for them. Instead of fighting against ...
Ep. 204 Gratitude
November 20, 2023 15:05 - 6 minutes - 8.61 MBHey amazing parents! Leslie Potter here with a heartfelt pause for gratitude on this Thanksgiving week. Whether you're a regular listener or joining us for the first time, THANK YOU for being part of the Parenting Paused community. Parenting is a wild ride, and kudos to all of you for taking a less traditional path! This week, let's dive into the transformative power of GRATITUDE. I used to struggle with gratitude – it felt forced. But I realized it's a practice, a conscious choice to fi...
Ep. 203 Pressure, Pressure, Pressure
November 13, 2023 14:31 - 6 minutes - 8.81 MBIf you've been with me, you know we're all about embracing a different way to parent – one that honors each child's unique spirit. This week, let's dive into PRESSURE. Where does it come from? Have you ever felt the weight of external expectations making you question your parenting choices? I sure have! In the quest for conscious parenting, I realized much of the pressure was linked to external influences. Ever been there? It can be overwhelming! But here's the twist – what if the ke...
Ep. 202 Exploring the Energetics of Parenting
November 06, 2023 14:22 - 6 minutes - 9.46 MBHey there, Purejoy Parents! How do you find ways to navigate your own emotional triggers when your child's intense feelings strike a chord within you? In this week's podcast, dive deep into the world of childhood emotions and their powerful energetic impact. Discover how to unravel the intricacies of emotional attunement and how it shapes our little ones' behaviors. Let's explore how understanding and managing these energetic charges can nurture a stronger bond with our kids. Tune in n...
Ep. 201 Projecting into the Future
October 29, 2023 12:58 - 7 minutes - 9.64 MBParenting is a journey filled with love, learning, and sometimes apprehension about the future. What do you notice in your parenting and energetics when you find yourself worrying about the future rather than parenting from the reality of right now? Do you parent the child in front of you or an invented future version of them? As you reflect back on the unexpected and sometimes difficult experiences you've had in the past, you'll see that you met the challenge as it happened. Here's to...
Ep. 200 Is Your Kid Behind?
October 22, 2023 21:01 - 6 minutes - 8.61 MBThis week let's talk about something that's been on my mind lately - the idea of children being "behind." It's easy to get caught up in the comparison game, especially in today's fast-paced world. You see other kids hitting milestones, excelling in various areas, and you sometimes wonder if your own child is "keeping up." But here's the thing - every child is on their own path. They bloom at their own pace, like beautiful flowers in a garden. Some may walk early, while others take their ...
Ep. 199 Looking at Your Expectations
October 16, 2023 13:16 - 7 minutes - 10.8 MBParenting is a journey of love, growth, and discovery. It's a constant learning process, and one lesson that's been on my mind lately is being mindful of our own expectations when it comes to our children. It's only natural to have dreams and hopes for our kids. We want them to thrive, to find their own happiness, and to lead fulfilling lives. However, it's important to pause and reflect on whether these hopes align with our child's true desires. It's essential that we give them the spac...
Ep. 198 Do you Need to Be in Control?
October 08, 2023 14:06 - 7 minutes - 10.5 MBFinding the right level of self-control in parenting is like being the captain of a ship, guiding it through both calm waters and occasional storms. It's important to create a safe and nurturing environment internally which supports growth and independence outside. On this week's podcast you will discover how the feeling of powerlessness leads to over-compensating, giving you the illusion of control, and how to relax back and open to a greater knowing.
Ep. 197 Releasing Regret
September 30, 2023 19:05 - 7 minutes - 9.94 MBParenthood is an incredible rollercoaster ride, filled with highs and lows that shape us into the parents we are today. One aspect we all encounter on this journey is regret. It's okay to admit that there are moments we wish we could redo or regret decisions we'd make differently. Let's not shy away from regret, but rather, face it head-on with compassion, exploration and an open heart. Could you discover both the benefits and drawbacks that come along with each regret? Discover how to R...
Ep. 196 Parenting Strategies
September 24, 2023 16:15 - 7 minutes - 10.9 MBDo you ever feel like you're trying to control your kids' behavior with strategies you learned from others, just to attain peace within yourself? Have you ever wondered if there's a better way to handle those moments of discomfort? In this episode, we'll explore these questions and more. Explore how to shift your focus from external control to inner peace through the foundational tool at Purejoy called "The SafeSeat". Discover how recognizing your internal disturbance leads to a more h...
Ep. 195 Relaxing into the Moment in Front of You
September 18, 2023 14:10 - 6 minutes - 9.29 MBAre you struggling to find moments of relaxation in the chaos of parenthood? Do you constantly feel the need to keep up with the never-ending to-do list? Do you ever wonder if you're truly present with your kids, or are you always chasing the next task? This week on Parenting Paused, let's dive deep into the art of relaxation and being present. Are external voices and expectations drowning out your authentic parenting journey? Join us as we explore slowing down, embracing the mom...
Ep. 194 Taking it Personally
September 10, 2023 20:07 - 6 minutes - 9.09 MBAs a mom who's been on this wild parenting journey for 23 years now, I know the struggles and challenges we face in raising our kids. But here's the thing: I've realized that much of my early parenting was influenced by deep-seated conditioning and personal stories I carried with me. In this week's episode of "Parenting Pause," I'm delving into the profound concept of consciousness and conditioning. How often have we taken things personally, only to realize that these reactions stem from ...
Ep. 193 The Root Cause of Behaviour
September 04, 2023 09:00 - 6 minutes - 9.09 MBLet's talk about those tricky behaviors our little ones might exhibit. Instead of labeling them as "acting out" or just normal behavior, it's time to see them for what they truly are: symptoms. Think about it this way - when we focus solely on solving the symptom itself, we often forget to dig deeper and address the root cause behind it. It can be tempting to tame their negative actions because society tells us good behavior is everything... but let me tell you a secret. Every hit or...
Ep. 192 Validation and What it Looks Like
August 28, 2023 12:03 - 6 minutes - 8.78 MBYour beautiful fairytale story begins every morning when the sun rises. You fill your basket up with all of the parenting techniques and knowledge you know. Then, set off into the day to parent gently and offer all the love and kindness you possess. An uncomfortable moment comes up for your child and you think, yes, the perfect time to pull out my validation technique. You've heard it works so well for other parents, you have SO much hope. Instead the situation turns into "The Big Bad Wo...
Ep. 191 No Mistakes
August 20, 2023 13:16 - 5 minutes - 8.13 MBDo you notice yourself being "judgy" when you perceive that you or your child makes a mistake? You are not alone! What is a mistake anyway? The definition of a mistake is as follows: An action or judgment that is misguided or wrong. Is it wrong in your eyes or when listening in do you notice someone else's voice? On this week's Parenting Paused Podcast discover a different approach to inquire within to explore is it really a mistake?
Ep. 190 Reimagining Parenting
August 14, 2023 14:21 - 6 minutes - 8.23 MBAs a mother I've often found myself imagining not so perfect outcomes about my child's future when I'm confronted with uncomfortable situations. My child refuses to do homework and BAM my brain immediately starts cranking out thoughts about myself as a parent and the horrible outcomes of a stubborn child who won't focus on their education. Pretty soon I've imagined them on the side of a dark alley, homeless, jobless and I'm accepting the reward for "Worst Mother". The thoughts swirl and ...
Ep. 189 Dealing with Disappointment
August 07, 2023 13:34 - 6 minutes - 9.12 MBDo you remember a time when your child came to you expressing disappointment? They didn’t make the team, someone made fun of them, or they got a D on their latest project? What came up for you? Did a “playlist” of strategies come up to make them feel OK? As the"music" played did you spring into action to banish those feelings for yourself and your child? On this week's Parenting Paused Podcast learn how to exchange your Go To "playlist" with one that offers a pause, a breath a...
Ep. 188 Working with Disrespect
July 30, 2023 13:20 - 8 minutes - 11.4 MBIt may seem like the goal in parenting is for your kids to behave perfectly 100% of the time. Instead of focusing on your kids behavior, have you considered what your part is in the dynamic? For example, you ask your teen to take the trash out and they say, "no" with an eye roll. Conventional parenting says: "kids should show respect by doing what they are told". What do you tell yourself about your parenting when your kiddo tells you "no" or you perceive them acting "disrespectfully"?...
Ep. 187 Parenting Your Teen 2
July 24, 2023 13:51 - 7 minutes - 10.1 MBIf you google the most common words to describe teens, you'll find a list of words: Risk Takers, Rebellious, Immature What list of words do you use to describe how it feels to parent a teen? Powerless, Afraid, Worried. In Purejoy Parenting, you start right here... how are you feeling? Because often, how you perceive your teen begins with your emotions and conditioned beliefs. If feeling powerless you may compensate by using a "power-over parenting style instead of choosing to conne...
Ep. 186 Parenting Your Teen
July 17, 2023 12:01 - 7 minutes - 10 MBParenting a teen can feel 🔥INTENSE!🔥 Have you heard the adage: "Little Kids, little problems. Big Kids, big problems?" Years ago, I created a Parent Coach model for parents of At-Risk Teens. As you can imagine, their behavior was viewed as provocative! And of course, the parents of these teens whole-heartedly wanted their kids to be successful and avoid suffering. Partnering with a few brave parents, we explored a different approach that became the crux of the Purejoy view. With kindne...
Ep. 185 How do you Treat Yourself?
July 10, 2023 12:03 - 7 minutes - 9.93 MBIn Purejoy, our view is: Thoughts and feelings drive behavior. When you perceive your child as acting out behaviorally, what happens to you emotionally? Do you immediately judge your child? Take a pause and look a little deeper... What are your thoughts? What do you tell yourself about how your parenting when your child acts out? In this week's Parenting Paused Podcast, explore your internal landscape when you are emotionally triggered. Discover how your thoughts and feelings, if...
What is Conscious Parenting?
July 04, 2023 15:47 - 7 minutes - 10.6 MBDiscovering conscious parenting is a journey of self-awareness and compassion. It's not about being perfect all the time, but rather being conscious of what's going on inside of you and supporting your child in doing the same. Listen in to explore the possibilities of conscious parenting. Becoming more aware of your actions and reactions, supports creating a more loving and understanding home for yourself and your children.
Ep. 183 Are you a Rescuer?
June 26, 2023 12:53 - 6 minutes - 9.56 MBParents are superheroes! While you may not wear a mask and a silly costume like in comic books, you play an incredibly important role in your children’s lives and make significant sacrifices to ensure their well-being and happiness. You may go to great lengths to keep your children safe and secure. We do it all, but do we have to? Do you bolt to the rescue when your child is struggling with a problem, relationship or task? How do you see your child at that moment? Do you see ...
Ep. 182 Worried about the Future
June 19, 2023 11:47 - 8 minutes - 11.1 MBI often found myself worrying about my child’s future and if the decisions I was making were the “right” ones. The “ifs” sometimes seemed to take over! If they are on screens too long, will they fry their brains? If they eat too many sweets, will they get cavities? If they push against my boundaries, does that make me a bad parent? Sound familiar to you? Constantly focusing on the future and projecting beliefs into it can be exhausting. In this week’s Parenting Paused Podcast di...
Ep. 181 Do you Expect Your Child to Have Your Values?
June 12, 2023 13:53 - 6 minutes - 9.53 MBDo you experience a sense of accomplishment when your child behaves in a way that aligns with the values you've instilled in them? And how do you feel if they don't share the same beliefs as you do? It's natural for parents to judge their child's actions as good or bad based on whether they align with their own values. However, it's important to consider where those beliefs and expectations come from. Do you hear an external voice when judging your child's actions? Take a moment to...