StrollerCoaster: A Parenting Podcast
61 episodes - English - Latest episode: 10 months ago - ★★★★★ - 165 ratingsDoes everyone you know give you different parenting advice? Are you overwhelmed trying to find the most credible sources for innovative parenting tips? Let us do that! StrollerCoaster is a podcast for parents that allows you to sit down with childhood development experts and parents from around the world who are answering your biggest parenting questions and providing solutions you can actually use. Created by Munchkin Inc. (The Most Loved Baby Lifestyle Brand in the World) and hosted by CNN and NBC news anchor Lynn Smith, we cover topics from social emotional learning, to feeding your kids, to understanding your own parenting experiences, and so much more.
Plus, we even have a podcast for kids! StrollerCoaster StoryTime is a short-form podcast with a modern take on your favorite children's stories. It's full of surprises, cool sound effects and unexpected twists and turns, and you can find these episodes right here in the StrollerCoaster feed.
So, whether you’re a parent to be, or a parent of three, hop on board the StrollerCoaster, because raising little humans can be quite a ride.
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Episodes
How I Changed As A Parent: Season 3
June 19, 2023 07:00 - 24 minutesWhat a season! True to our name StrollerCoaster has ridden the ups and downs of parenting with laughter, candor, and always—with our best face forward. Enjoy this season finale as we look back at the mind-blowing science of playing outside, handling big emotions gracefully, the physiological experience of kindness, reading to learn as opposed to just learning to read, how-to raise confident kids, how to navigate what’s “not fair!” and how each of these empowering themes played out in real lif...
BONUS For Kids! The Wolf Who Cried Ice Cream
June 05, 2023 07:00 - 6 minutesOnce upon a time there was a parrot, a snail, a duck, and a wolf! They were all great friends, but the wolf really liked to play tricks on the rest of the gang. Tricks can be funny, but they can also be misleading. Find out what happens when this wolf cries "ice cream!" and ends up learning a very valuable lesson on the importance of honesty. Grab YOUR ice cream, sit back, and relax, as our 9-year old director leads a cast of amazing improv actors in our one-of-a-kind version of the classic c...
Turning the Page: The New Way to Raise a Reader
May 22, 2023 07:00 - 23 minutesWe know reading is so important to a child’s life, from the stories we tell them as infants to teaching them how to read themselves. But how does reading work inside a child's brain and what effect does it have on brain development? We talk to Dr. David Pearson, a reading expert with 40 years of experience, and take a science-driven deep dive into reading to demystify how it works. Then we hear a story from Emily Varod about the power that books had to help her kids overcome the challenges th...
Physical Activity Is Even More Important than You Think!
May 08, 2023 18:14 - 21 minutes“Time to go out and play!” It’s something we as parents tell our children when we need a break and they need some exercise. But as we learn in this episode, the benefits go MUCH deeper than that. We’ll sit down with Angela Hanscom, an occupational therapist who noticed a startling trend in her young patients and came up with some solutions that can make a huge difference in every child’s life. Then we hear a story from Ramsey Hootman about how her son’s connection with the outdoors actually ...
BONUS For Kids! Rock Soup
May 01, 2023 07:00 - 5 minutesOlivia loves to cook with her grandma, especially her delicious mac and cheese. But, today Grandma is making Rock Soup! What ingredients do you need for this rockin' dish? Well you'll just have to listen to find out! Our 9-year old director leads his cast of amazing improv actors as they perform a one-of-a-kind version of the classic children's story 'Stone Soup'. It's full of musical surprises, cool sound effects and unexpected twists and turns! It's "story time" like you've never heard it b...
Let’s Make it Easier to Travel with Kids!
April 24, 2023 07:00 - 24 minutesThe Travel Episode! From going to the grocery store to flying with your toddler, we get into what it’s like to take your kids from point A to Point B. Traveling with your family can be a beautiful and enriching experience… or an absolute disaster. To help us make the best choices, we talk to Jessica Averett, a world traveler and creator of Bring the Kids, a website dedicated to family travel. Jessica has journeyed to over 40 countries with her family of 5 and has a ton of great tips and trick...
What to Say When Your Kid Says, “It’s not Fair!”
April 10, 2023 07:00 - 20 minutes“It’s Not Fair!” If that’s a phrase that makes you cringe, you’ve got to hear today’s episode. It will change everything. First, Lynn talks with Dr. Jessica Sommerville - a developmental psychologist who has lots of experience with fairness. Then we’ll hear a story from Katie Cloyd - a mom of three whose take on fairness will really make you think! And finally, a relaxing time out to transport you to the Amazon Rainforest for a moment of calm. Enjoy!
Chew With Your Mouth Closed! (Why Manners Matter)
March 27, 2023 07:00 - 22 minutesIs it too early to teach manners when kids are just learning to ask for what they want? Is there a point where it’s too late to teach manners and the habits are already ingrained? And WHY do manners matter? Today Lynn talks with Zack Bush, best-selling children's book author, father of three, and co-writer of The Little Book of Good Manners. Then we’ll hear from writer, director, producer, and parent Laura Mullin, whose work on manners with her daughter resulted in triumph, relief, and a dee...
Let’s Talk About Parent Loneliness…Finally!
March 13, 2023 07:00 - 28 minutesHow can you feel lonely when you have your baby with you all the time? It’s not only possible, it’s common. People just don’t talk about it, but we will! And don’t worry, we’re not going to tell you to just go and find a playgroup. We go much deeper than that for an incredibly satisfying conversation with expert Dr. Juli Fraga, and then we laugh and nod in understanding as we hear brilliant storyteller and mom, Nell Frizzell, tell us about her loneliness journey. There may even be a Sylvester...
How to Raise Confident Kids
February 27, 2023 08:00 - 23 minutesIf you ask any parent out there, raising confident kids is a number one priority, but when you think about it, it’s really hard to quantify how to give confidence to children. Is it about encouragement? Independence? Striking a balance between the two? It’s complicated but don’t worry, we have answers for you. Today we sit down with parent, TED speaker and Harvard Business Review contributor Suzanne Brown about the little things we can do to instill confidence in our kids. Then we hear an ama...
Help! I’m Not Bonding With My Child...Or am I?
February 13, 2023 08:00 - 20 minutesWhat does it even mean to bond with your child? What do you do if you can tell it’s not happening? Lynn bonds (see what we did there?) with nationally recognized experts Dr. Gabrielle Mauren and Dr. Michelle Wiersgalla through their conversation on building relationships with our kids. Then we learn even more when we hear from mom Jen Malia who went from a strained relationship with her son to a meaningful connection. Lastly, we’ll whisk you away for a relaxing time out!
BONUS For Kids! The Turtle and the Rabbit
February 06, 2023 08:00 - 6 minutesThe Rabbit is feeling pretty confident that he can beat the turtle in a race... UNLESS he were to get distracted by his phone right in the middle of the race! Our 9-year old director leads his cast of amazing improv actors as they perform a one-of-a-kind version of the classic children's story 'The Tortoise & The Hare'. It's full of musical surprises, cool sound effects and unexpected twists and turns! It's "story time" like you've never heard it before! Perfect for kids! And parents too!
Yes, We Should Be Teaching Our Kids Kindness!
January 30, 2023 08:00 - 23 minutesIn our selfie culture, it’s crucial that we teach our kids to care about each other and to connect with other people. How do we do that, and how can kids become empowered with assertive kindness and not be pushovers? Are people just born kind, or do we learn it? Lynn explores all of this and more by speaking with Leon Logothetis - TV host, speaker and author, best known for his series “The Kindness Diaries” (now streaming on Discovery Plus.) Then, we hear a powerful story from Cassandra Ridde...
This One's For The Dads!
January 16, 2023 08:00 - 22 minutesThere’s tons of mom blogs and websites for moms, but what’s happening in Fatherhood? What have been the hardest changes (besides diapers)? What didn’t Dads expect? First, Lynn hears the latest from Brian Anderson, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Fathering Together, and his community of dads. Then, we hear a funny, real, and heartwarming story from Glen Henry, founder of Beleaf In Fatherhood, on how his world turned upside down when he became a stay-at-home Dad. Make sure to stay until th...
Tantrums! Big Solutions for Big Emotions
January 02, 2023 08:00 - 26 minutesThere you are being your fabulous parenting self when your child suddenly gets furious. Or frustrated. Or surprisingly quiet. What are they feeling and why? Is there a way to quickly decode and translate so they feel understood and we feel sane? Turns out, there are several techniques you can try! First, Lynn talks with child development expert and education journalist, Deborah Farmer Kris to learn ways to better help you AND your child understand their emotions. Then we hear from psychologis...
The Magic and Madness of the Holidays
December 12, 2022 08:00 - 20 minutesAre the holidays stressing you out more than a trip to the store with 3 toddlers? In just 20 minutes, we'll take you away from the madness and into the magic. In this special holiday episode of StrollerCoaster we're gifting you tips from Rosemarie Truglio, a childhood development specialist at Sesame Workshop, on how to talk to your kids about the true meaning of the season without breaking the bank. Then you'll hear from journalist Vanessa McGrady about the time her daughter asked that dread...
Teaching Our Kids to Love the Earth : The Julian Lennon Episode
November 29, 2022 08:00 - 26 minutesWelcome to Season 3! From climate change to extreme weather, how do we talk to our kids about important issues that seem scary to us as parents? Julian Lennon - humanitarian, philanthropist, musician and children’s book author, sits down with Lynn to talk about his work to make the planet a better place. He shares an incredible story about the connection he has to his father, John Lennon, and offers some great insights into how we can inspire curiosity and responsibility for the planet in our...
StrollerCoaster Returns! Season 3 Trailer
November 14, 2022 08:00 - 56 secondsStrollerCoaster is back for another landmark season, bringing you new interviews with cutting edge experts and inspiring stories from real parents across the country! Our host Lynn Smith investigates your burning parenting questions with empathy, laughs, and a ton of heart. The wild ride of parenting continues in Season 3 of StrollerCoaster. Brought to you by Munchkin, the most loved baby brand in the world.
How I Changed As A Parent
April 04, 2022 07:00 - 27 minutesWe’ve gotten so many fresh ideas about parenting from making this very podcast, we couldn’t help but burst about it. Today Lynn and Justin share their real-life stories about what they’ve tried at home and how things turned out. The suspense!
StrollerMail + Special Guest Jasmine Roth!
March 28, 2022 07:00 - 21 minutesLynn and Justin open up the StrollerMail bag to hear from you! It’s a great conversation with stories, laughs and real advice all for the StrollerCoaster community. Plus author, home designer and HGTV superstar Jasmine Roth joins us with some great tips to make your home more reflective of YOU. More from Special Guest, Jasmine Roth: https://www.jasmine-roth.com/
How Do I Stop Yelling?
March 21, 2022 07:00 - 37 minutesEver yelled at your kid? Raised your voice? Felt terrible about it after? You are not alone. The question is: Can we avoid yelling in the first place? The answer is yes. Lynn will talk with national award-winning educator Dr. Chae, and then we’ll hear a profound story from Best-Selling author Rachel Macy Stafford about why - and how - she stopped yelling quickly and for good. We’ll have a StrollerMail after-party, and then wrap it up with a relaxing time out for you. More from Expert, Dr. Ch...
All In The Family: The Siblings Episode
March 14, 2022 07:00 - 26 minutesWhen you have a second child, are you giving your kids a lifelong best friend or instant rival? In this episode, we get into all the benefits and issues that can arise between siblings. We sit down with Dr. Siggie Cohen to talk about her work exploring the relationships between siblings as well as her life at home as the parent of three boys. Then we’ll hear a story from Deborah Goldstein about how her relationship with her sister changed over the years. More from Expert, Dr. Siggie Cohen: h...
Can We Get A Dog? The Pets Episode
March 07, 2022 08:00 - 32 minutes"Can we get a dog? Can we get a dog? Can we get a dog?” It’s a chant that many parents hear, but how important is having a pet to your child’s life? We talk to Dr. Marc Bekoff, who shares what you need to know as you prepare the family for a new pet. Then we hear a story from Jo Simmons, who adopted a therapy dog that completely changed her son Ben’s life. Plus, a special giveaway! More from Expert, Marc Bekoff: https://marcbekoff.com/ More from Dogs for Good, from Parent of the Day Jo Simmo...
I Can't Stand How My Spouse Parents
February 21, 2022 08:00 - 42 minutesYou can’t know how your spouse is going to parent until you’re parents. Surprise! Today we get to the heart of the matter. Lynn talks with best-selling author and founder of Positive Parenting Solutions Amy McCready. We’ll hear from Kate Stahl whose work on her marriage is having fantastic results on the whole family. Then Lynn talks with one and only fitness motivator Shaun T, and we’ll wrap it all up with a relaxing time out for you. More from Expert, Amy McCready: https://amymccready.com/...
Raising a Resilient Kid
February 14, 2022 08:00 - 33 minutesWhen you get down, do you bounce back? Resilience is a crucial skill for life! So what can we parents do to raise resilient kids? First Lynn has a riveting convo with Christina Hillsberg, a former CIA Intelligence Analyst and author of “License to Parent: How My Career as a Spy Helped Me Raise Resourceful, Self-Sufficient Kids”. Then we’ll hear from Jacqueline Chen about her son whose resilience motivates everyone around him. Next up, Lynn has an incredible conversation with Ginger Zee, best ...
Pal VS Parent
February 07, 2022 08:00 - 32 minutesIs it healthy to be a parent to your children as well as their best friend? Is it even possible? It seems like modern parenting attempts to straddle this line but what are the facts behind the fad? We talk to Dr. Nicole Beurkens, a clinical psychologist, nutritionist, and special education teacher, about finding the right dynamic between parent and child. Then we hear the story of Aaronica Cole, a mother of three who firmly believes that being friends with your kids is the best way to parent....
How Do We Talk to Our Kids About Money?
January 31, 2022 08:00 - 26 minutesWhen kids want something in the store should you buy it for them? Do you give them an allowance? Why? On this episode Lynn talks with mother of two, financial planner, and author of “Beyond Piggy Banks and Lemonade Stands: How To Teach Young Kids About Finance”, Liz Frazier Peck, so we can figure out how and when we should talk to our kids about money. We’ll also hear the incredible story of how mom Sharita Humphrey broke the cycle of financial struggle for her children when she went from hom...
A Look At Bullying
January 24, 2022 08:00 - 38 minutesBullying is an issue that so many of us grapple with but not enough of us understand. In this episode, we're going to change that. Today, Lynn talks with journalist and author Melinda Wenner Moyer to learn about some of the science behind bullying. We also have an amazing story from author Carrie Goldman about how her daughter’s encounter with bullying became a rallying point for people all around the world. Then we’ll hear from you in our StrollerMail segment and bring it home with a calming...
Season 2 Trailer
January 17, 2022 08:00 - 1 minuteAfter ranking in the top 2% of Apple Podcasts for Kids & Family in our debut season…we’re back for Season 2! That means even more insightful interviews with parenting experts and inspiring stories from parents just like you. Leading the way is StrollerCoaster’s brand new host, news anchor for CNN and NBC, Lynn Smith! Plus exciting celebrity guests who share incredible stories about how they balance their lifestyle with being a parent. Strap yourself in for another ride, Season 2 of StrollerCo...
Mailbag Time. Putting A’s to Your Q’s
August 30, 2021 07:00 - 19 minutesNo StrollerCoaster season would be complete without our very own mailbag. What questions did you curious listeners have for us? How did our incredible experts and parenting stories change Faith’s and Justin’s lives? Faith and Justin reveal their OWN Parenting Confessions, and of course a time out for YOU!
10. Mailbag Time. Putting A’s to Your Q’s
August 30, 2021 07:00 - 19 minutesNo StrollerCoaster season would be complete without our very own mailbag. What questions did you curious listeners have for us? How did our incredible experts and parenting stories change Faith’s and Justin’s lives? Faith and Justin reveal their OWN Parenting Confessions, and of course a time out for YOU!
9. Must-Hear Moments!
August 16, 2021 07:00 - 26 minutesOur hosts share their favorite smart and surprising parenting moments - all wrapped up in one episode! With eye-opening info from experts and great take-aways on topics like: screen addiction, surviving the “parenting mental load,” connecting with our kids, and more. It’s a can’t-miss 26 1/2 minutes!
Must-Hear Moments!
August 16, 2021 07:00 - 26 minutesOur hosts share their favorite smart and surprising parenting moments - all wrapped up in one episode! With eye-opening info from experts and great take-aways on topics like: screen addiction, surviving the “parenting mental load,” connecting with our kids, and more. It’s a can’t-miss 26 1/2 minutes!
8. Can We Get Some Sleep?
August 02, 2021 07:00 - 39 minutesWe’re talking sleep for the whole family. Including YOU. This episode is solution-based and inspiring! We’ll talk with the awesome and down-to-earth Dr. Craig Canapari, author, and Director of the Yale Pediatric Sleep Center. We’ll also hear from super sleep guru Tonja B., who you will SO relate to: She went from sleep deprived, to professional sleep guide! And of course a peaceful time out - for you!
Can We Get Some Sleep?
August 02, 2021 07:00 - 39 minutesWe’re talking sleep for the whole family. Including YOU. This episode is solution-based and inspiring! We’ll talk with the awesome and down-to-earth Dr. Craig Canapari, author, and Director of the Yale Pediatric Sleep Center. We’ll also hear from super sleep guru Tonja B., who you will SO relate to: She went from sleep deprived, to professional sleep guide! And of course a peaceful time out - for you!
BONUS For Kids! The Not-So-Old Woman Who Lived in A Shoe
July 19, 2021 14:12 - 7 minutes'There was an Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe, who had so many kids she didn't know what to do'... but honestly she wasn't THAT old when you think about it and she and her kids have PLENTY to do. Our 9-year old director and his cast of amazing improv actors perform their version of the classic nursery rhyme that’s full of surprises, sound effects, twists and turns and a shoe on the move! It's "story time" like you've never heard it before! Perfect for kids! And parents too!
7. Listen To Me
July 05, 2021 07:00 - 37 minutesListening. It sounds easy but it's actually quite complicated. Today, Faith will explore the topic with Joanna Faber & Julie King, the authors of ‘How to Talk So Little Kids Will Listen: A Survival Guide to Life with Children Ages 2-7’. These moms and educators have spent their entire LIVES figuring out strategies to talk and listen to kids more effectively. Then, Kevin Del Aguila of Frozen on Broadway joins the show to discuss what it takes to get an audience of children to actually listen a...
Listen To Me
July 05, 2021 07:00 - 37 minutesListening. It sounds easy but it's actually quite complicated. Today, Faith will explore the topic with Joanna Faber & Julie King, the authors of ‘How to Talk So Little Kids Will Listen: A Survival Guide to Life with Children Ages 2-7’. These moms and educators have spent their entire LIVES figuring out strategies to talk and listen to kids more effectively. Then, Kevin Del Aguila of Frozen on Broadway joins the show to discuss what it takes to get an audience of children to actually listen a...
Bonus Episode: StoryTime! Hansel & Gretel... & The Candy Wizard
June 28, 2021 07:00 - 10 minutesOh no! Hansel and Gretel are lost in the woods! Can they find their way back home? Join them on their journey filled with breadcrumb-loving birds, a chocolate lawnmower, and a magical Candy Wizard! Presented by our 9-year-old director and his cast of amazing improv actors, this version of Hansel & Gretel is full of surprises, interactive fun, original songs and unexpected twists and turns! It's "story time" like you've never heard it before! Perfect for kids! And parents too!
BONUS For Kids! Hansel & Gretel... & The Candy Wizard
June 28, 2021 07:00 - 10 minutesOh no! Hansel and Gretel are lost in the woods! Can they find their way back home? Join them on their journey filled with breadcrumb-loving birds, a chocolate lawnmower, and a magical Candy Wizard! Presented by our 9-year-old director and his cast of amazing improv actors, this version of Hansel & Gretel is full of surprises, interactive fun, original songs and unexpected twists and turns! It's "story time" like you've never heard it before! Perfect for kids! And parents too!
6. Work-Life Balance. What’s That?
June 21, 2021 07:00 - 34 minutesWhether you’re a working parent or stay-at-home, join us as Faith talks with Josh Levs, former NPR and CNN journalist and a leading expert on work-life balance, who opens our eyes (and ears) to why dads need balance. Get inspired by Marla Bautista, military wife, entrepreneur, and mom who reminds us that it’s never too late to create balance. And nod along to some parenting confessions.
Work-Life Balance. What’s That?
June 21, 2021 07:00 - 34 minutesWhether you’re a working parent or stay-at-home, join us as Faith talks with Josh Levs, former NPR and CNN journalist and a leading expert on work-life balance, who opens our eyes (and ears) to why dads need balance. Get inspired by Marla Bautista, military wife, entrepreneur, and mom who reminds us that it’s never too late to create balance. And nod along to some parenting confessions.
BONUS For Kids! Goldilocks, The Three Bears and Aunt Joanie
June 14, 2021 07:00 - 8 minutesGoldilocks just wants to visit her Aunt Joanie but she has the wrong address! So she ends up in the house of three friendly bears tasting everybody's favorite afternoon snack: porridge. Our 9-year old director leads his cast of amazing improv actors as they perform a one-of-a-kind version of the classic children's story. It's full of musical surprises, interactive fun, cool sound effects and unexpected twists and turns! It's "story time" like you've never heard it before! Perfect for kids! An...
Bonus Episode: StoryTime! Goldilocks, The Three Bears and Aunt Joanie
June 14, 2021 07:00 - 8 minutesGoldilocks just wants to visit her Aunt Joanie but she has the wrong address! So she ends up in the house of three friendly bears tasting everybody's favorite afternoon snack: porridge. Our 9-year old director leads his cast of amazing improv actors as they perform a one-of-a-kind version of the classic children's story. It's full of musical surprises, interactive fun, cool sound effects and unexpected twists and turns! It's "story time" like you've never heard it before! Perfect for kids! An...
5. Learning
June 07, 2021 07:00 - 25 minutesIn this episode we take a look at some of the unexpected ways that kids learn about the world. Faith talks to Lyn Huston, a teacher at a one-room schoolhouse in Duckwater, Nevada, about what it's like to teach a whole community of children in the same classroom. We also hear the inspiring story of how Rob Kenney, the creator of the popular YouTube channel "Dad, How Do I?", took the departure of his father and turned it into a tool to bring people heart, hope, and the knowledge to complete imp...
Learning
June 07, 2021 07:00 - 25 minutesIn this episode we take a look at some of the unexpected ways that kids learn about the world. Faith talks to Lyn Huston, a teacher at a one-room schoolhouse in Duckwater, Nevada, about what it's like to teach a whole community of children in the same classroom. We also hear the inspiring story of how Rob Kenney, the creator of the popular YouTube channel "Dad, How Do I?", took the departure of his father and turned it into a tool to bring people heart, hope, and the knowledge to complete imp...
BONUS For Kids! Little Red Riding Sneakers
May 31, 2021 07:00 - 9 minutesLittle Red Riding Hood has a brand new look with her very cool, very fresh sparkly SNEAKERS. This week on StoryTime we’ve got her exciting, never-before-heard adventure to grandma’s house. Our 9-year old director leads his cast of amazing improv actors as they perform their version of the classic children's story. It's full of wolfy surprises, interactive fun, cool sound effects and unexpected twists and turns! Perfect for kids! And parents too!
Bonus Episode: StoryTime! Little Red Riding Sneakers
May 31, 2021 07:00 - 9 minutesLittle Red Riding Hood has a brand new look with her very cool, very fresh sparkly SNEAKERS. This week on StoryTime we’ve got her exciting, never-before-heard adventure to grandma’s house. Our 9-year old director leads his cast of amazing improv actors as they perform their version of the classic children's story. It's full of wolfy surprises, interactive fun, cool sound effects and unexpected twists and turns! Perfect for kids! And parents too!
4. Food and Nutrition. More than just chicken nuggets.
May 24, 2021 07:00 - 30 minutesWhen you become a parent, food becomes a bigger part of life than ever before. On this episode: Faith talks to former editor of Epicurious.com, Tanya Steel, who partnered with Michelle Obama on The Healthy Lunchtime Challenge; we hear a compelling story from a mother about her daughter's life-threatening food allergy; and hilarious Parenting Confessions! PLUS! A chance to win super-fun Munchkin gifts!
Food and Nutrition. More than just chicken nuggets.
May 24, 2021 07:00 - 30 minutesWhen you become a parent, food becomes a bigger part of life than ever before. On this episode: Faith talks to former editor of Epicurious.com, Tanya Steel, who partnered with Michelle Obama on The Healthy Lunchtime Challenge; we hear a compelling story from a mother about her daughter's life-threatening food allergy; and hilarious Parenting Confessions! PLUS! A chance to win super-fun Munchkin gifts!