Bite Your Tongue: The Podcast

Today we speak with Karen Denison Clark as she courageously recounts her journey from being a young tennis star victimized by her coach, to becoming a fearless advocate against sexual abuse. Her narrative, shared through powerful media outlets, including The New York Times, serves not only as a beacon of hope for survivors but also as a call to action for creating environments where victims feel safe to voice their experiences.By establishing a foundation of trust and openness, parents can create a safe space for their children to express their feelings and experiences, should they choose to do so.  Highlights:Why it is not too late to talk to your adult children nowThe impact of repressed memories and the journey to recovery Encouraging open communication about uncomfortable topics Tips for parents on initiating conversations with adult children Advocating for awareness and change regarding sexual abuse policies The importance of believing survivors and nurturing their voices Fostering a supportive environment for future generationsThe surprising rules at Colleges and Universities that still allow relationships between coaches, professors and other people in positions of leadership with students.  Read Karen's OP-ED here. Huge thank you to Connie Gorant Fisher, our audio engineer.Send your ideas for episodes and guests to biteyourtonguepodcast@gmail.com. Also remember to follow us on Facebook and Instagram. And once again, with just a donation of $5 you can help us keep going!  Visit our website at biteyourtonguepodcast.com and select SUPPORT US.  You can buy a "virtual" cup of coffee. Support the show  The site and podcast do not contain any medical/health information or advice. The medical/health information is for general information and educational purposes only and is not suitable for professional device. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OF OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THE SITE OR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. 

Are you missing the signs?  Do you really know how your adult child feels and are you ready to begin to mend a fractured relationship?   In this episode, we sit down with Sally Harris, to explore the nuances of maintaining strong, healthy relationships with adult children. From navigating differing values to addressing estrangement, Sally shares practical advice and strategies for parents striving to build deeper connections while respecting boundaries.Here are some of the things we discuss:Recognizing the Parent-Child Dynamic Prioritizing Self-CareMastering Effective CommunicationOffering Support Without Judgment Embracing Differing ValuesFocusing on Your RoleHuge thank you to Connie Gorant Fisher, our audio engineer.Send your ideas for episodes and guests to biteyourtonguepodcast@gmail.com.Also remember to follow us on Facebook and Instagram. And once again, with just a donation of $5 you can help us keep going!  Visit our website at biteyourtonguepodcast.com and select SUPPORT US.  You can buy a "virtual" cup of coffee and support our work!Support the show  The site and podcast do not contain any medical/health information or advice. The medical/health information is for general information and educational purposes only and is not suitable for professional device. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OF OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THE SITE OR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. 

In this episode, we explore the joys and challenges of visits with adult children, whether during the holidays or throughout the year. Our guests,  Pamela Heckelman, a certified Empty Nest coach, and Rabbi Schlomo Slotkin a seasoned relationship counselor, share their expertise on building stronger, more fulfilling connections with adult children.How can parents create a welcoming home environment while prioritizing their own emotional well-being? They offer invaluable tips on balancing self-care with the temporary chaos of family gatherings. We discuss the surprising reappearance of teenage behaviors and provide strategies for handling these moments with grace and patience.As the family gathering time approaches, managing expectations is more critical than ever. We delve into the art of flexibility, open communication, and adapting traditions to reduce stress and foster joy. Together, we explore how parents can find fulfillment in simple, meaningful moments while letting go of unnecessary pressures to truly enjoy the holiday spirit.We talk about the importance of respecting adult children’s autonomy and maintaining a united front with your partner. By setting healthy boundaries and practicing non-judgmental communication, parents can nurture relationships that thrive beyond holiday visits. Join us for this insightful conversation, packed with practical tools to enrich your family gatherings and strengthen relationships with your adult children.Also a free book download from Pamela: Your Kids are Grown: Now What?Huge thank you to Connie Gorant Fisher, our audio engineer.Also remember to follow us on Facebook and Instagram. And once again, with just a donation of $5 you can help us keep going!  Visit our website at biteyourtonguepodcast.com and select SUPPORT US.  You can buy a "virtual" cup of coffee and support our work!Support the show  The site and podcast do not contain any medical/health information or advice. The medical/health information is for general information and educational purposes only and is not suitable for professional device. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OF OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THE SITE OR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. 

Today we discuss the circle of life and explore the emotional and delicate balance of caregiving.  For most of us we will be caregivers to our spouse, parents or even our children. And at some point, our own children will be our caregivers.  We are lucky to have two guests.  The first is Dana Eble, who has  been involved in Alzheimer’s disease philanthropy for more than a decade, which led her to being one of the first employees at Alzheimer’s Caregivers Network in 2021. Dana works to educate and equip caregivers with the knowledge and resources they need to excel in their roles while avoiding burnout.Joining Dana is Jessica Smith. Dana shares her own story of her mother being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease the age of 61.  She remembers wanting to hide. She felt shame and fear as her family’s world and daily realities changed. You'll discover how mindfulness became Jessica's anchor in managing her responsibilities and learn about the essential resource, "Navigating Alzheimer's Disease: A Map for Caregivers," available as a free PDF for anyone on a similar path.We dive into the tough conversations that many of us avoid, yet are necessary when dealing with dementia—like preparing for end-of-life discussions and challenging the often grim societal perceptions around the disease. Thank you to Connie Gorant Fisher, our audio engineer.Remember to follow us on Facebook and Instagram.   Visit our website at biteyourtonguepodcast.com and select SUPPORT US.  You can buy a "virtual" cup of coffee for only $5. Support the showSupport the show  The site and podcast do not contain any medical/health information or advice. The medical/health information is for general information and educational purposes only and is not suitable for professional device. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OF OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THE SITE OR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. 

Prepare to gain invaluable insights into the intricate dynamics of family relationships as we chat with Rachel Haack, a seasoned mental health clinician, mother, and daughter-in-law. We discuss everything from daughter-in-law issues, being a good mother-in-law, grandparent and we even have a poll our guest is going to share about what bugs young adults the most about us - and vise-versa!Rachel opens up about her early conflicts with her mother-in-law, offering vital lessons on empathy, understanding different perspectives, and the power of effective communication in mending strained family ties. We also discuss the high expectations often placed on mothers and the need for them to adapt as their children grow into independent adults. Rachel’s journey provides a blueprint for navigating and healing complex familial relationships, even when they start off on the wrong foot.We explore grand parenting and  identify common pitfalls such as criticism, discipline, and favoritism, emphasizing the importance of offering advice only when asked and keeping a balanced perspective on grandchildren’s strengths. Rachel shares strategies for initiating open dialogues and handling silent treatment, as well as the importance of self-soothing and emotional regulation. We examine the balance parents need to strike between maintaining their sense of self while being open to feedback from their children. This episode is packed with practical advice on addressing past conflicts, avoiding common communication pitfalls like stonewalling and passive aggressiveness, and nurturing healthier parent-child relationships in an age where social media influences are ever-present. Huge thank you to Connie Gorant Fisher, our audio engineer.Send ideas to biteyourtonguepodcast@gmail.com.Also remember to follow us on Facebook and Instagram. And once again, with just a donation of $5 you can help us keep going!  Visit our website at biteyourtonguepodcast.com and select SUPPORT US.  You can buy a "virtual" cup of coffee for $5 and it will make a huge difference.Support the show  The site and podcast do not contain any medical/health information or advice. The medical/health information is for general information and educational purposes only and is not suitable for professional device. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OF OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THE SITE OR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. 

How do we transform our parenting roles as our children become young adults?Today we speak with Julie Lythcott-Hames, former Stanford University dean and bestselling author of "How to Raise an Adult" and "Your Turn." Joined by guest co-host Erica Gardner-Gray, we unravel the complexities of modern parenting, addressing societal pressures and the myth of effortless achievement.As a parent herself, Lythcott-Haims acknowledges that parenting young adults is a continuous learning process. Despite her credentials and expertise, she humbly admits that she is still figuring things out and undoing patterns in her own journey. She encourages listeners not to interpret her words as criticism but rather as lessons learned from her own experiences. We examine the long-term effects of over-involvement on millennials and Gen Z. From helicopter parenting to the financial and emotional implications of extended adolescence, we tackle the difficult dynamics that parents face today. Strategies are offered for navigating this terrain, highlighting the importance of finding a delicate balance between supporting and enabling, and the necessity of preparing young adults to fend for themselves in an increasingly complex world.We discuss practical steps for supporting young adults, emphasizing the value of allowing them to learn from their challenges and lead their own lives.  Huge thank you to Connie Gorant Fisher, our audio engineer.Send your ideas for episodes and guests to biteyourtonguepodcast@gmail.com.Also remember to follow us on Facebook and Instagram. And once again, with just a donation of $5 you can help us keep going!  Visit our website at biteyourtonguepodcast.com and select SUPPORT US.  You can buy a "virtual" cup of coffee and support our work!Support the show  The site and podcast do not contain any medical/health information or advice. The medical/health information is for general information and educational purposes only and is not suitable for professional device. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OF OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THE SITE OR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. 

Should you be involved in your adult child's dating life?  Listen and find out.Discover the art of balancing parental involvement in your adult children's dating lives as we bring you insights from the esteemed matchmaker, Rachel Greenwald. Our conversation takes a deep dive into the ever-evolving dating landscape, where technology and social media have turned dating into a skill that requires finesse and caution. Hear how the priorities of marriage and career are shifting among young adults, as highlighted by a compelling New York Times article.The pandemic has left an indelible mark on dating behaviors, encouraging a shift towards meaningful connections over superficial interactions. We explore how family dynamics play a pivotal role in shaping romantic relationships and the importance of having open, constructive conversations about your child's partner choices. From the influence of family backgrounds to the art of effective communication, this episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone navigating the complex world of modern dating. Huge thank you to Connie Gorant Fisher, our audio engineer.Send your ideas for episodes and guests to biteyourtonguepodcast@gmail.com.Also remember to follow us on Facebook and Instagram. And once again, with just a donation of $5 you can help us keep going!  Visit our website at biteyourtonguepodcast.com and select SUPPORT US.  You can buy a "virtual" cup of coffee and support our work!Support the show  The site and podcast do not contain any medical/health information or advice. The medical/health information is for general information and educational purposes only and is not suitable for professional device. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OF OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THE SITE OR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. 

Unlock the secrets to fostering resilient and independent adult children with Dr. Charles Fay, co-founder and CEO of Love and Logic. We promise you'll gain actionable insights into shifting your parental role from caretaker to supportive guide, helping your children thrive as self-reliant individuals. Dr. Fay uncovers the pitfalls of parental guilt and codependency, offering practical strategies to empower your adult children to take charge of their own lives.Ever wondered how to offer advice without taking over? Dr. Fay enlightens us on presenting choices without overwhelming, allowing your children to make informed decisions and grow from their mistakes. We explore the importance of effective communication, the power of empathy, and why sometimes saying less can mean more. Through engaging role-plays and real-life examples, discover the fine line between helping and enabling, ensuring your children develop the critical thinking and resilience necessary for adulthood.Finally, learn how to set boundaries that foster mutual respect and independence. Dr. Fay shares his personal experiences and wisdom from his upcoming book on Raising Mentally Strong Kids.  This episode is packed with profound advice on maintaining a balanced household where both parents and adult children can flourish. Join us for a thought-provoking journey into the heart of parenting adult children with love and logic. A big thank you to Connie Gorant Fisher, our audio engineer, for making this episode possible. We love hearing from you! Share your thoughts with us at biteyourtongue@gmail.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.Support Our Podcast:You can support our podcast with a donation as small as $5, the equivalent of buying us a “virtual” cup of coffee. Consider joining our squad with an annual membership starting at just $5 per month. Support the show  The site and podcast do not contain any medical/health information or advice. The medical/health information is for general information and educational purposes only and is not suitable for professional device. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OF OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THE SITE OR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. 

Ever wondered how to better support your millennial children without overstepping? Tess Brigham, renowned as the "millennial therapist," joins us to share her unique journey from the glitz of Hollywood to the fulfilling world of psychotherapy. Discover her expert insights into fostering independence in young adults by encouraging them to solve their own problems, rather than simply handing them solutions. Tess's approach is all about guiding questions that empower young people to navigate their own challenges confidently.Tess helps us unearth the pressures millennials face today, from social media comparisons to the looming "30 under 30" lists. We discuss the anxiety that accompanies unmet milestones and the fear of future failure, drawing intriguing parallels to the concerns faced by people in their sixties. Learn how to build trust in oneself through life transitions and the essential role parents play in this process, all while avoiding the trap of enabling. Tess sheds light on the evolving attitudes toward mental health among younger generations and the impact of technology on their work-life boundaries.Get ready for practical, heartfelt advice on how to provide emotional support to your adult children. Tess emphasizes the power of supportive texts and acknowledging efforts in boosting confidence and happiness. We tackle the complexities of work-life balance, especially in a world where constant connectivity blurs the lines between professional and personal life. Gain valuable strategies for setting boundaries, achieving financial independence, and embracing generational differences in career expectations. A big thank you to Connie Gorant Fisher, our audio engineer, for making this episode possible. We love hearing from you! Share your thoughts with us at biteyourtongue@gmail.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.Support Our Podcast:You can support our podcast with a donation as small as $5, the equivalent of buying us a “virtual” cup of coffee. Consider joining our squad with an annual membership starting at just $5 per month. Support the show  The site and podcast do not contain any medical/health information or advice. The medical/health information is for general information and educational purposes only and is not suitable for professional device. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OF OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THE SITE OR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. 

Would you like to unlock the secrets to building deeper, more rewarding relationships with your adult children? Join us in this BONUS episode rewind for a compelling conversation with Dr. Ruth Nemzoff, author of "Don't Bite Your Tongue: How to Foster Rewarding Relationships with Your Adult Family." Ruth shares her invaluable insights on transitioning from a central role in your children's lives to finding a new way to connect as they gain independence. We explore the delicate balance of offering advice without alienating your adult children and the nuances of maintaining a loving and supportive relationship through thoughtful and timely communication.We tackle the practicalities and emotional challenges of redefining relationships when adult children return home or continue living at home. Learn essential strategies for setting clear expectations, negotiating roles, and offering the right kind of support. We delve into real-life scenarios to provide actionable advice on balancing household responsibilities, encouraging independence, and fostering mutual respect. Gain a deeper understanding of evolving social norms around intergenerational living and the importance of self-awareness in navigating these new dynamics.Finally, we venture into the realm of communication and boundaries, offering insights on how to navigate relationships with in-laws and manage family dynamics. Discover the power of open communication, humor, and positivity in diffusing tension and enhancing connections. Ruth's wisdom reminds us that while relationships are inherently imperfect, thoughtful communication and a willingness to understand different family cultures can transform friction into closeness. Tune in for personal anecdotes, practical advice, and a heartfelt discussion on maintaining harmony and intimacy within your family.Support the show  The site and podcast do not contain any medical/health information or advice. The medical/health information is for general information and educational purposes only and is not suitable for professional device. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OF OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THE SITE OR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.