In this heartwarming episode of the Fresh Start Family Show, Wendy sits down with Noor El-Ansary, the inspiring author of "The Kindness Book." Growing up in an immigrant household with gentle parenting at its core, Noor's journey is a testament to the incredible impact of unconditional kindness. Wendy and Noor dive into how these early experiences shaped Noor into a thriving adult, offering hope and actionable advice for parents aiming to raise confident, well-adjusted kids.



Noor opens up about her path of self-discovery, revealing how her background in Montessori education deepened her understanding of the powerful parenting techniques passed down by her mom and grandmother. She passionately shares why it's crucial to teach children they are worthy of love simply for who they are, not what they achieve. Noor also provides practical tips on building confidence, honoring kids' emotions, and fostering a healthy relationship with failure and rest. This episode is a beautiful reminder that gentle parenting doesn't just grow amazing kids—it cultivates resilient, emotionally intelligent adults. Tune in for a conversation full of wisdom, warmth, and inspiration!



For links & more info about everything discussed in this episode, head to www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/254 [http://www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/254].



Grab our signature Firm & Kind Parenting Blueprint [https://freshstartfamilyonline.com/firmandkind]just in time for the holidays.



And don't forget to check us out on YouTube! http://www.youtube.com/@wendysnyder-freshstartfamily



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Why Unconditional Kindness in Parenting is Key: Lessons from a Thriving, Gentle-Parented Gen Z-er with Noor El-Ensary

In this deeply affirming episode of The Fresh Start Family Show, hosts Wendy and Terry Snyder sit down with Amanda and Dr. David Erickson of Flourishing Homes and Families to explore how gentle parenting aligns with the gospel. Drawing from their own transformative journeys and insights from their latest book, the Ericksons redefine "gentle parenting" as a courageous, Christ-centered approach rooted in empathy, connection, and firm boundaries. They offer a powerful reframe, challenging traditional perceptions of discipline by demonstrating how respect and trust reflect the teachings of Jesus in everyday family interactions.



This episode is a heartfelt invitation to parents to trust their moral compass and lean into connection over control. Through practical strategies and biblical wisdom, Amanda and Dr. David encourage families to embrace parenting as an act of faith and vulnerability. With grace and empathy at the core, they offer hope for creating compassionate, healthy family dynamics that honor both the humanity of the child and the radical love of Christ.



For links & more info about everything discussed in this episode, head to www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/253 [http://www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/253].



Grab our signature Firm & Kind Parenting Blueprint [https://freshstartfamilyonline.com/firmandkind]just in time for the holidays.



And don't forget to check us out on YouTube! http://www.youtube.com/@wendysnyder-freshstartfamily



Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [https://megaphone.fm/adchoices]

Is Gentle Parenting Aligned with the Gospel? A Critical Assessment with Dr. David and Amanda Erickson

In this thought-provoking episode of the Fresh Start Family Show, Wendy Snyder sits down with Titania Jordan, a trailblazer in the field of child online safety and the Chief Parent Officer of Bark Technologies. Together, they tackle the tough yet vital topic of how “Disappointing Your Kid Can Save Their Life.” With honesty, warmth, and a shared commitment to empowering parents, Wendy and Titania explore the complexities of raising kids in an increasingly tech-saturated world.



This conversation pulls no punches as it dives into the challenges of safeguarding children in the digital age. Titania shares her personal experiences and offers insights into the life-changing tools and solutions developed by Bark Technologies to help parents protect their children online. Wendy and Titania unpack the real-world consequences of unmonitored screen time, including its impact on mental and physical health, while offering practical, compassionate strategies for navigating these modern challenges. Above all, this episode is a call to action for parents to lead with courage, connection, and clarity, creating a safer digital future for their kids.



For links & more info about everything discussed in this episode, head to www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/252 [http://www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/252]. And be sure to check us out on YouTube [http://www.youtube.com/@wendysnyder-freshstartfamily]!



Grab our signature Firm & Kind Parenting Blueprint [https://freshstartfamilyonline.com/firmandkind]just in time for the holidays.



Check out all of the kid safe devices we love and current discounts - including Bark! - at https://freshstartfamilyonline.com/kidsafephones









Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [https://megaphone.fm/adchoices]

How Disappointing Your Kid Can Save Their Life

Welcome to a deeply meaningful episode of the Fresh Start Family Show, where Wendy Snyder invites us to explore the heart of parenting during the holidays—a time often filled with both joy and unique challenges. Together, we’ll dive into the art of creating connection and calm amidst the hustle and bustle, as Wendy shares powerful tools to regulate your nervous system and navigate the complexities of family gatherings, social pressures, and parenting in the spotlight. This conversation is a gentle reminder that you are capable of cultivating harmony, even during the busiest of seasons.



In this special "Say This, Not That: Holiday Edition," Wendy unpacks practical, actionable strategies to transform moments of stress into opportunities for growth and connection. From addressing feelings of overwhelm or judgment to rewiring those inner dialogues that so often drive our reactions, this episode equips you with empowering language and a mindset shift that will help you show up with grace, courage, and compassion. Whether it’s learning to pause, practicing kindness toward yourself, or leaning into authentic connection with your kids, this episode is an invitation to approach the holidays with a full heart, renewed resilience, and a clear intention to build a season filled with love and joy.



For links & more info about everything discussed in this episode, head to www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/251 [http://www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/250]. And be sure to check us out on YouTube [http://www.youtube.com/@wendysnyder-freshstartfamily]!



Special thanks to our sponsor of the month, Tonies! Use code FRESHSTART15 for 15% off orders $99+ at Tonies [https://tonies.sjv.io/xLE51k] – good through 12/06/24, limit one use per customer.

Check out all of their screen-free goodness HERE [https://tonies.sjv.io/xLE51k]!



AND, don't forget to enter for a chance to win a FREE Toniebox! Enter the contest HERE [https://www.instagram.com/p/DCF8D_pvchM/]!



Be sure to take advantage of our GIANT Small Business Saturday Sale on The Foundations Course! For a limited time, you can grab it for just $97...that's 80% off!! Use the code SMALLBUSINESS at checkout 11/27-12/1.



Grab our signature Firm & Kind Parenting Blueprint [https://freshstartfamilyonline.com/firmandkind]just in time for the holidays.





Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [https://megaphone.fm/adchoices]

Say This, Not That: 5 Tips for Holiday Season Bliss

In this exciting episode of the Fresh Start Family Show, Wendy Snyder teams up with the insightful Dr. Tracy Dalgleish to dig into a topic close to every parent’s heart: keeping romance alive and building a partnership that strengthens the whole family. Wendy and Dr. Tracy dive deep into the powerful impact a thriving relationship can have on parenting—especially when raising spirited, strong-willed kids. Together, they expose the everyday traps that can turn partners into roommates and share real-life tips for sparking that connection back to life.



This conversation is packed with aha moments, offering couples fresh ways to bring more intention into their relationships. Wendy and Dr. Tracy tackle the art of everyday rituals, why setting digital boundaries can save relationships, and how to communicate in a way that nurtures rather than drains. With Dr. Tracy’s unique blend of research-based expertise and personal parenting experience, they break down small but powerful changes that lead to deep, lasting connection, helping parents show up as a team not only for each other but for their kids, too. Get ready to feel inspired and empowered to make simple shifts that can reshape your relationship and family life for the better!



For links & more info about everything discussed in this episode, head to www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/249 [http://www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/250]. And be sure to check us out on YouTube [http://www.youtube.com/@wendysnyder-freshstartfamily]!



Special thanks to our sponsor of the month, Tonies! Use code FRESHSTART15 for 15% off orders $99+ at Tonies [https://tonies.sjv.io/xLE51k] – good through 12/06/24, limit one use per customer.

Check out all of their screen-free goodness HERE [https://tonies.sjv.io/xLE51k]!



AND, don't forget to enter for a chance to win a FREE Toniebox! Enter the contest HERE [https://www.instagram.com/p/DCF8D_pvchM/]!



Grab our signature Firm & Kind Parenting Blueprint [https://freshstartfamilyonline.com/firmandkind]just in time for the holidays.





Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [https://megaphone.fm/adchoices]

Reclaim Your Romance: Strengthen Your Partnership (& Your Parenting!) with Dr. Tracy Dalgleish

Tune in to this refreshingly real episode of the Fresh Start Family Show, where Wendy Snyder unpacks the rollercoaster of emotions parents often face when their kids start acting up. Just in time for the holiday hustle, Wendy digs into how holiday schedules, family gatherings, and heightened expectations can make even the calmest parents feel on edge. Wendy’s unique approach shines as she explains how our nervous systems, shaped by our own childhoods, can lead us to react (sometimes a little too strongly) when our kids test limits.



Get ready for an eye-opening chat about moving from reactive to responsive parenting! Wendy shares why understanding—and even healing—our nervous systems can be the key to compassionate discipline and lasting connection with our kids. Say goodbye to stress-fueled parenting and discover practical tools for a more peaceful, connected holiday season with the family.



For links & more info about everything discussed in this episode, head to www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/249 [http://www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/249]. And be sure to check us out on YouTube [http://www.youtube.com/@wendysnyder-freshstartfamily]!



Special thanks to our sponsor of the month, Tonies! Use code FRESHSTART15 for 15% off orders $99+ at Tonies [https://tonies.sjv.io/xLE51k] – good through 12/06/24, limit one use per customer.

Check out all of their screen-free goodness HERE [https://tonies.sjv.io/xLE51k]!



AND, don't forget to enter for a chance to win a FREE Toniebox! Enter the contest HERE [https://www.instagram.com/p/DCF8D_pvchM/]!



Grab our signature Firm & Kind Parenting Blueprint [https://freshstartfamilyonline.com/firmandkind]just in time for the holidays.



Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [https://megaphone.fm/adchoices]

 Why Your Nervous System Feels so Rattled When Your Kids Misbehave

In this dynamic episode of the Fresh Start Family Show, Wendy Snyder is joined once again by Drew Vernon from Tonies for an eye-opening conversation about helping kids develop the ability to entertain themselves—without relying on screens. With screen time becoming the norm in today’s digital world, many families are searching for healthier, more creative ways to engage their children. Wendy kicks off the discussion by sharing a thought-provoking observation from a recent trip to Disneyland, where she noticed the increasing use of screens by kids, sparking a deep dive into how we can redirect that trend.



Together, Wendy and Drew explore practical strategies to encourage screen-free play that fosters creativity, independence, and imagination. They share tips on setting boundaries, being a role model for mindful technology use, and introducing self-directed play options like Tonies that empower kids to take charge of their own fun. The conversation also touches on the power of nature in childhood development, while highlighting how Tonies is expanding its range with educational content for older children. Whether through home use, libraries, or school programs, this episode is packed with actionable insights for parents and educators looking to raise screen-free, creative kids!



For links & more info about everything discussed in this episode, head to www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/248 [http://www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/248].



﻿﻿And don't forget to check us out on YouTube! http://www.youtube.com/@wendysnyder-freshstartfamily



You can grab Wendy's signature Firm & Kind Parenting Blueprint at www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/firmandkind [https://cms.megaphone.fm/organizations/102d798c-a022-11ee-ad7c-ef8463f46be5/podcasts/7dddd5c2-1244-11eb-8a53-ab581ce68b31/episodes/babb2cb4-7484-11ef-bfa2-5fd355cc0f20/www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/firmandkind].



Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [https://megaphone.fm/adchoices]

5 Ways to Build Up Your Child's Ability to Entertain Themselves Screen-Free with Drew Vernon

In this heartfelt episode of the Fresh Start Family Show, Wendy Snyder sits down with Dr. Natali Edmonds from Dementia Careblazers to dive deep into the realities of caregiver stress, especially in the demanding world of dementia care. Wendy opens the discussion by drawing powerful connections between the challenges of caring for young children and elderly loved ones with dementia, highlighting the emotional roller coasters that both journeys often share.

Dr. Edmonds offers profound wisdom on managing the unique stressors of caregiving, emphasizing the critical need for self-compassion and the well-being of the caregiver as much as the care recipient. She tackles the common misconception that a caregiver’s role is to always keep their loved ones happy, urging instead for a focus on emotional resilience and thought management. 

This conversation is filled with practical, actionable strategies that can transform how we approach caregiving—from learning to be our own best friend to finding strength in the most challenging moments. Whether you’re new to caregiving or deep in the trenches, this episode is a beacon of hope and guidance.



For links & more info about everything discussed in this episode, head to www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/247 [http://www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/247].



﻿And don't forget to check us out on YouTube! http://www.youtube.com/@wendysnyder-freshstartfamily



You can grab Wendy's signature Firm & Kind Parenting Blueprint at www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/firmandkind [https://cms.megaphone.fm/organizations/102d798c-a022-11ee-ad7c-ef8463f46be5/podcasts/7dddd5c2-1244-11eb-8a53-ab581ce68b31/episodes/babb2cb4-7484-11ef-bfa2-5fd355cc0f20/www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/firmandkind].



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Caregiver Stress and How to Manage it with Dr. Natali Edmonds

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5 Ways to Nurture Allyship and Inclusion in Our Kids with Dr. Traci Baxley

In this compelling episode, we sit down with Tim Whitaker, founder of The New Evangelicals, to dig deep into navigating faith, resisting toxic teachings, and advocating for marginalized communities within the Christian church. Tim shares his personal journey from growing up in a conservative evangelical household to becoming a leader in the movement for a more compassionate, inclusive faith. Together, we explore how to maintain integrity and authenticity in a faith that can often feel contradictory, especially within the landscape of modern evangelicalism.



From the polarizing effect of politics within the church to the urgent need for social justice and LGBTQ inclusion, Tim’s story and insights are timely and powerful. This episode isn’t just a conversation—it's an invitation to reflect on your own faith journey, question toxic teachings, and advocate for a more loving, inclusive community. Wendy and Terry offer their own personal reflections, making this episode a rich resource for families seeking to align their parenting and faith with compassion, integrity, and justice.



If you’ve ever found yourself wrestling with questions of faith or striving to create a more inclusive, just world for your children, this episode is for you.



For links & more info about everything discussed in this episode, head to www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/245 [http://www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/245]. 



And don't forget to check us out on YouTube! http://www.youtube.com/@wendysnyder-freshstartfamily



You can grab Wendy's signature Firm & Kind Parenting Blueprint at www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/firmandkind [https://cms.megaphone.fm/organizations/102d798c-a022-11ee-ad7c-ef8463f46be5/podcasts/7dddd5c2-1244-11eb-8a53-ab581ce68b31/episodes/babb2cb4-7484-11ef-bfa2-5fd355cc0f20/www.freshstartfamilyonline.com/firmandkind].



Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [https://megaphone.fm/adchoices]

How to Resist Toxic Teachings & Hypocrisy as a Family of Faith with Tim Whitaker

A podcast about parenting, family & relationships, the Fresh Start Family Show is hosted by husband and wife team Terry and Wendy Snyder, who interview inspiring experts that tackle a range of topics that bring reality, hope, and a path to more peace in the home and world. Expand your heart, learn new tools, strengthen your family.



