Ep. 306: Emmanuel: When Parenting Feels Out of Control

Ep. 306: Emmanuel: When Parenting Feels Out of Control

Author: Dr. Meg Meeker December 24, 2025 Duration: 25:46
In this Christmas episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker invites parents to slow down and reflect on the deeper meaning of Emmanuel—God with us—during seasons when parenting feels uncertain, overwhelming, or out of control. Through reflections on Christmas traditions, gingerbread houses, and the sacred rhythms that shape family life, Dr. Meeker explores how simple rituals create belonging and emotional safety for children. These traditions are not about perfection—they’re about presence. Dr. Meeker also shares deeply personal experiences, including a medical mission trip to the Dominican Republic, where she came face-to-face with the limits of control and the ache parents feel when they can’t fix what’s in front of them. She parallels these moments with Mary’s story as the mother of Jesus—reminding parents that fear, uncertainty, and surrender have always been part of the parenting journey. This episode is a gentle but powerful reminder: uncertainty does not mean abandonment. Even when answers are unclear, Emmanuel is present—offering comfort, hope, and steadiness to parents and children alike. 🎄 A Simple Holiday Note If you’re still looking for a meaningful last-minute gift, the Ask Dr. Meg Community is open. You can try it free, or gift an annual membership with 10% off using code Holiday2025—a gift that supports families well beyond Christmas. 🤝 SponsorsRula makes quality mental healthcare accessible and affordable—matching you with licensed therapists who accept your insurance, often with appointments as soon as tomorrow. Get started at Rula.com/drmegBorn Shoes – 15% off full-price styles + free shipping with code DRMEG at BornShoes.comHungryroot – 40% off + free gift with code DRMEG 🎧 As Heard on PGK Check out other books we've talked about on the podcast. https://amzn.to/46IsRjD Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 📩 Subscribe to the Parenting Great Kids Newsletter: https://bit.ly/46G4Niw See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In a cultural moment that often overcomplicates the fundamental task of raising good people, Parenting Great Kids with Dr. Meg Meeker offers a return to grounded, compassionate wisdom. This isn't about theoretical perfection; it's a conversation rooted in decades of clinical practice and real-life experience. Dr. Meg Meeker, a practicing pediatrician and mother, draws from her unique perspective as both a medical doctor and a bestselling author to address the anxieties and questions modern parents face. Each episode feels like a thoughtful dialogue, whether she's speaking with a fellow expert on child development or unpacking a listener's concern. You'll hear discussions that span the practicalities of daily discipline to the deeper challenges of fostering resilience and character in kids and teens. The tone is consistently reassuring yet direct, cutting through the noise of conflicting advice to focus on what truly strengthens a family. Listening to this podcast provides more than just strategies; it offers a framework for building trust and connection through every age and stage. Dr. Meeker’s approach validates the difficulties while empowering parents with actionable insights, making the journey feel less lonely and more manageable. It’s a resource for anyone who wants to move beyond survival and actively nurture great kids.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Parenting Great Kids with Dr. Meg Meeker
Podcast Episodes
Ep. 247:  Parenting with Purpose: Nurturing Character in Kids [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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In this episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker discusses the importance of character development in children with Dr. Kathy Koch, founder and president of Celebrate Kids, Inc. They explore how character qualitie…
Ep. 244: Considering Homeschooling? What Every Parent Needs to Know [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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If you're feeling frustrated and disconnected from your child's education, despite your efforts to engage and support them, then you are not alone! Many parents find that traditional schooling systems often fail to provi…
Ep. 242: Gain the Dad Edge: Empowering Fatherhood with Larry Hagner [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:19
In this episode of 'Parenting Great Kids,' Dr. Meg Meeker welcomes back Larry Hagner, the creative force behind the Dad Edge podcast and author of 'The Spirit of Fatherhood.' Larry shares his journey of overcoming a tumu…
Ep. 241: Breaking Free from Mom Guilt, a Modern Motherhood Epidemic [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:53
Did you know that 95% of moms experience mom guilt regularly? In this episode, Dr. Meg delves into this pervasive issue with author Alli Worthington. Alli's extensive national survey on the challenges of motherhood has c…