Mindful Mama | Inspiration To Thrive Not Just Survive

In this episode of the Mindful Mama Podcast, I talk with Katie Kimball about how chores can quietly build children’s competence, confidence, and independence. Katie shares practical strategies for engaging kids of all ages, creating chore systems that actually work, and introducing responsibility in ways that feel collaborative rather than controlling. Whether you’re parenting elementary-aged kids or teens, this conversation is full of actionable tips for helping kids take ownership, develop life skills, and thrive. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why chores matter more than convenience and can foster mindfulness How to make chores collaborative, not a power struggle Age-appropriate strategies for kids and teens Ways to shift from nagging to systems that support independence One small, compassionate step parents can take this week ABOUT HUNTER CLARKE-FIELDS: Hunter Clarke-Fields is the host Mindful Parenting Podcast (Top 0.5% podcast ), global speaker, number

Parenting can leave intimacy feeling impossible—but it doesn’t have to. In this episode, Hunter Clarke-Fields talks with Dr. Rebecca Eudy, sex therapist and author of Parents in Love, about navigating desire, connection, and pleasure in long-term relationships. You’ll discover: • Why desire differences are normal—and not a sign something is wrong • How parenting affects intimacy and touch • Practical ways to nurture responsive desire without pressure • How attachment patterns influence emotional and physical closeness • The power of micro moments to keep connection alive If you’ve ever felt “touched out” or disconnected from your partner, this episode gives research-backed, realistic strategies to rediscover desire, cultivate connection, and bring intimacy back into your relationship. ABOUT HUNTER CLARKE-FIELDS: Hunter Clarke-Fields is the host Mindful Parenting Podcast (Top 0.5% podcast ), global speaker, number 1 bestselling author of “Raising Good Humans” and “Raising Good Humans

This episode is an invitation to keep the support going. Hunter Clarke-Fields and Dr. Chris Willard explore why mindfulness is so hard to sustain on your own—and how practicing together can make it feel possible again. The Mindful Middle is a three-week live group coaching space to slow down, stay present, and receive support in the middle of real life. Support isn’t a luxury in the middle—it’s how we stay whole. Find out more at https://www.mindfulmamamentor.com/middle\ ABOUT HUNTER CLARKE-FIELDS: Hunter Clarke-Fields is the host Mindful Parenting Podcast (Top 0.5% podcast ), global speaker, number 1 bestselling author of “Raising Good Humans” and “Raising Good Humans Every Day,” Mindfulness Meditation teacher and creator of the Mindful Parenting Course and Teacher Training. Find more podcasts, Hunter’s books, blog posts, free resources, and more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MindfulMamaMentor.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Discover your Unique-To-You Podcast Playlist at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠mindfulmamamentor.com/quiz/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ We love t

Caring for kids, aging parents, and work—often all at once—can leave caregivers exhausted, overwhelmed, and silently burning out. In this episode of the Mindful Mama Podcast, Hunter Clarke-Fields and clinical psychologist Dr. Christopher Willard explore the unique emotional and nervous-system challenges of the sandwich generation. You’ll learn why caregiver burnout isn’t a personal failure, how chronic stress impacts patience and joy, and what actually helps when life feels nonstop. Why the sandwich generation experiences chronic emotional overload The biology behind caregiver burnout and constant stress Why “work–life balance” doesn’t work—and what does Simple mindfulness tools you can use in real life How to set boundaries without guilt Why repair matters more than perfection in caregiving relationships This compassionate conversation offers relief, validation, and practical support for parents and caregivers stretched in every direction. Plus: Learn about The Mi

In this episode of the Mindful Mama Podcast, Hunter Clarke-Fields talks with Sharon Salzberg, meditation pioneer, bestselling author, and co-founder of the Insight Meditation Society, about practicing mindfulness and lovingkindness in today’s fast-paced, hyperconnected world. Sharon shares why so many of us feel disconnected and overwhelmed — even when we’re not alone — and how lovingkindness can gently restore a sense of connection, resilience, and belonging. They also explore Sharon’s new children’s book, Kind Karl, and how parents can model compassion and emotional acceptance for their kids without adding more to their already-full plates. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why distraction leaves us feeling fragmented and disconnected How lovingkindness supports emotional resilience and mental health The difference between everyday stress and deeper overwhelm How to practice compassion when you feel depleted or shut down Ways parents can model kindness without “doing more”

Pregnancy can be full of excitement—but also deep anxiety, fear, and trauma. In this episode, Hunter Clarke-Fields talks with Alexia Leachman, founder of Fearless Birthing and creator of the Head Trash Clearance method, about reproductive anxiety, tocophobia, and maternal mental health. You’ll learn: • What reproductive anxiety is and how it differs from general anxiety or tokophobia • How past trauma and emotional patterns affect pregnancy and motherhood • Practical steps for healing birth trauma and anxiety • The role of self-compassion and emotional clearance in long-term mental health • How community and support can empower women on their journey If pregnancy fears or maternal anxiety feel overwhelming, this episode provides research-backed insights, tools, and hope to move from fear to freedom. ABOUT HUNTER CLARKE-FIELDS: Hunter Clarke-Fields is the host Mindful Parenting Podcast (Top 0.5% podcast ), global speaker, number 1 bestselling author of “Raising Good Humans” and “Raisin

Why don’t kids listen—and how can we get more cooperation without yelling, threats, or bribes? In this solo episode, Hunter Clarke-Fields breaks down the real reasons kids tune us out and what you can do to transform the dynamic with connection, boundaries, and play. You’ll learn: • Why yelling shuts down your child’s “learning brain” • The communication habits that accidentally create resistance • How to set calm, confident boundaries without harshness • Why consistency builds trust—and better listening • The surprising power of play to ease power struggles • Simple, research-backed tools you can use this week Hunter shares real-life examples, neuroscience insights, and practical scripts you can use right away to create more cooperation and ease in your home. If you're tired of repeating yourself, feeling ignored, or slipping into yelling, this episode will give you the clarity—and compassion—you need to shift the dynamic. Listen now to bring more calm, connection, and confidence to y

Eli Harwood, licensed therapist, creator of Attachment Nerd, and author of Securely Attached and Raising Securely Attached Kids, joins Hunter Clarke-Fields to explore the crucial role of attachment in parenting. In this conversation, they discuss how early relational patterns shape children’s development, the four main attachment styles, and practical strategies for fostering secure connections with kids. Eli also highlights the importance of self-compassion, repairing disconnection, and leveraging community support to nurture emotionally resilient families. Parents will leave with actionable insights to strengthen connection, support emotional well-being, and cultivate secure attachment in everyday life. ABOUT HUNTER CLARKE-FIELDS: Hunter Clarke-Fields is the host Mindful Parenting Podcast (Top 0.5% podcast ), global speaker, number 1 bestselling author of “Raising Good Humans” and “Raising Good Humans Every Day,” Mindfulness Meditation teacher and creator of the Mindful Parenting Course and Teac

We’re closing out 2025 with the most-loved, most transformative episodes of The Mindful Mama Podcast! In this special “Best Of” compilation, host Hunter Clarke-Fields revisits five unforgettable conversations that inspired parents everywhere to bring more calm, compassion, and connection into family life. From helping anxious kids to navigating sibling rivalry and supporting our own nervous systems—these highlights capture the wisdom, humor, and heart of the year’s best moments. Whether you’re a longtime listener or new to mindful parenting, this episode will leave you grounded, hopeful, and ready for the year ahead. ABOUT HUNTER CLARKE-FIELDS: Hunter Clarke-Fields is the host Mindful Parenting Podcast (Top 0.5% podcast ), global speaker, number 1 bestselling author of “Raising Good Humans” and “Raising Good Humans Every Day,” Mindfulness Meditation teacher and creator of the Mindful Parenting Course and Teacher Training. Find more podcasts, Hunter’s books, blog posts, free resources, and more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠

Is your child oppositional? The problem may not be in your child, but in your relationship. Dr. Gabor Maté returns to the Mindful Parenting Podcast to talk about the problem of “peer orientation” and how it creates a competition between adult intentions and peers. Discussion about the natural parental hierarchy, how to take “back” our kids and promote healthy attachment with adults.  ABOUT HUNTER CLARKE-FIELDS: Hunter Clarke-Fields is the host Mindful Parenting Podcast (Top 0.5% podcast ), global speaker, number 1 bestselling author of “Raising Good Humans” and “Raising Good Humans Every Day,” Mindfulness Meditation teacher and creator of the Mindful Parenting Course and Teacher Training. Find more podcasts, Hunter’s books, blog posts, free resources, and more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MindfulMamaMentor.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Discover your Unique-To-You Podcast Playlist at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠mindfulmamamentor.com/quiz/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes f

Feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or stuck in cycles of yelling and guilt? You’re not alone—and there is another way. In this short mini episode, Hunter Clarke-Fields invites you to Mindful Parenting Live, a free, four-day online series happening January 5–8. You’ll learn practical, mindfulness-based tools to help you parent with more calm, connection, and confidence—even in the middle of tantrums, defiance, and daily chaos. Hunter also shares a real-life story from a mom who transformed her parenting experience by making small, mindful shifts—and how calm stopped feeling like a fantasy and started feeling possible.

Seth Perler, executive function coach, speaker, and advocate for neurodiverse learners, joins Hunter Clarke-Fields to discuss the challenges and opportunities of parenting neurodiverse children. They explore common myths about executive function, the differences between neurodiverse and neurotypical kids, and how curiosity, empathy, and mindful parenting can make a real difference. Seth shares practical strategies for supporting children’s growth, managing homework and routines, and creating environments where kids can thrive despite challenges. ABOUT HUNTER CLARKE-FIELDS: Hunter Clarke-Fields is the host Mindful Parenting Podcast (Top 0.5% podcast ), global speaker, number 1 bestselling author of “Raising Good Humans” and “Raising Good Humans Every Day,” Mindfulness Meditation teacher and creator of the Mindful Parenting Course and Teacher Training. Find more podcasts, Hunter’s books, blog posts, free resources, and more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MindfulMamaMentor.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Discover your Unique-To-You Podcast

Dr. Judy Y. Chu, educator and author of When Boys Become Boys, joins Hunter Clarke-Fields to explore how boys develop emotionally, socially, and relationally in a culture that often limits their expression. In this conversation, they discuss how societal expectations shape boys’ identities, the importance of relationships in their lives, and the ways boys can be supported to maintain empathy, emotional intelligence, and authentic connection. Dr. Chu shares research-based insights on fostering healthy resistance to rigid gender norms, nurturing emotional depth, and reimagining masculinity in ways that honor vulnerability, resilience, and caring relationships. ABOUT HUNTER CLARKE-FIELDS: Hunter Clarke-Fields is the host Mindful Parenting Podcast (Top 0.5% podcast ), global speaker, number 1 bestselling author of “Raising Good Humans” and “Raising Good Humans Every Day,” Mindfulness Meditation teacher and creator of the Mindful Parenting Course and Teacher Training. Find more podcasts, Hunter’s books,

Dr. Cara Natterson, pediatrician, bestselling author, and founder of Less Awkward, joins Hunter Clarke-Fields to discuss how parents can guide boys through puberty with confidence, compassion, and clarity. They explore how to maintain connection when boys start to withdraw, talk openly about body changes, consent, and online influences, and recognize early signs of emotional struggle. Dr. Natterson shares practical strategies for replacing awkwardness with understanding and fostering safe, supportive conversations that help boys thrive during these transformative years. ABOUT HUNTER CLARKE-FIELDS: Hunter Clarke-Fields is the host Mindful Parenting Podcast (Top 0.5% podcast ), global speaker, number 1 bestselling author of “Raising Good Humans” and “Raising Good Humans Every Day,” Mindfulness Meditation teacher and creator of the Mindful Parenting Course and Teacher Training. Find more podcasts, Hunter’s books, blog posts, free resources, and more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MindfulMamaMentor.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Discover you

Author and media critic Joanna Schroeder, co-author of Talk To Your Boys, joins Hunter to explore how we can raise emotionally aware and connected young men in a world that tells them to “man up.” They talk about emotional literacy, having tough conversations about sex, consent, and substances, and how to respond when boys are angry or shut down. Joanna shares insights on helping boys manage big feelings, stay engaged in school, and build emotional strength through connection and empathy. ABOUT HUNTER CLARKE-FIELDS: Hunter Clarke-Fields is the host Mindful Parenting Podcast (Top 0.5% podcast ), global speaker, number 1 bestselling author of “Raising Good Humans” and “Raising Good Humans Every Day,” Mindfulness Meditation teacher and creator of the Mindful Parenting Course and Teacher Training. Find more podcasts, Hunter’s books, blog posts, free resources, and more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MindfulMamaMentor.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Discover your Unique-To-You Podcast Playlist at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠mindfulmamamentor.com/quiz/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ We love

Mindful parenting is about presence, not perfection. In this episode, Hunter Clarke-Fields shares practical do’s and don’ts for staying calm through big emotions, setting respectful boundaries, and caring for yourself while fostering your child’s independence. Highlights: • Stay grounded and model emotional regulation • Set clear, respectful boundaries • Support kids’ independence—and your own growth ABOUT HUNTER CLARKE-FIELDS: Hunter Clarke-Fields is the host Mindful Parenting Podcast (Top 0.5% podcast ), global speaker, number 1 bestselling author of “Raising Good Humans” and “Raising Good Humans Every Day,” Mindfulness Meditation teacher and creator of the Mindful Parenting Course and Teacher Training. Find more podcasts, Hunter’s books, blog posts, free resources, and more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MindfulMamaMentor.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Discover your Unique-To-You Podcast Playlist at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠mindfulmamamentor.com/quiz/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special

Screens are everywhere—but how do we manage them without constant battles? In this episode of the Mindful Mama Podcast, Hunter explores how parents can approach screen time with balance and mindfulness, creating healthier family dynamics and less conflict. You’ll learn: Why a neutral view of screens helps reduce power struggles How to balance your child’s needs with your own Practical routines that make screen time smoother The importance of modeling healthy tech habits How to shift from restriction to collaboration with your kids ABOUT HUNTER CLARKE-FIELDS: Hunter Clarke-Fields is the host Mindful Parenting Podcast (Top 0.5% podcast ), global speaker, number 1 bestselling author of “Raising Good Humans” and “Raising Good Humans Every Day,” Mindfulness Meditation teacher and creator of the Mindful Parenting Course and Teacher Training. Find more podcasts, Hunter’s books, blog posts, free resources, and more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MindfulMamaMentor.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Discover your Uniqu

Discover how simple breathing practices can calm anxiety and boost overall well-being. Hunter Clarke-Fields talks with world-renowned breathing expert Patrick McKeown about: His journey from chronic asthma to breathing mastery Why nasal breathing and balanced CO₂ levels matter Practical exercises to reduce stress—for adults and kids Tune in for science-backed tips you can use today to breathe easier and feel more grounded. ABOUT HUNTER CLARKE-FIELDS: Hunter Clarke-Fields is the host Mindful Parenting Podcast (Top 0.5% podcast ), global speaker, number 1 bestselling author of “Raising Good Humans” and “Raising Good Humans Every Day,” Mindfulness Meditation teacher and creator of the Mindful Parenting Course and Teacher Training. Find more podcasts, Hunter’s books, blog posts, free resources, and more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MindfulMamaMentor.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Discover your Unique-To-You Podcast Playlist at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠mindfulmamamentor.com/quiz/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ We love the sponsors that make this show possible! Yo

Parenting isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. In this episode, Dr. Allyson Bates and Dr. Krystal Pong open up about their own journeys into mindful parenting and what they’ve learned along the way. You’ll hear: How self-compassion shifts the parenting journey Practical mindfulness strategies for everyday life Why gratitude is essential for parents Tools for emotional regulation when challenges arise How to navigate difficult moments and use them for growth Insights on strengthening family dynamics through mindfulness This conversation is full of wisdom and gentle encouragement for parents who want to bring more calm, compassion, and resilience into their families. ABOUT HUNTER CLARKE-FIELDS: Hunter Clarke-Fields is the host Mindful Parenting Podcast (Top 0.5% podcast ), global speaker, number 1 bestselling author of “Raising Good Humans” and “Raising Good Humans Every Day,” Mindfulness Meditation teacher and creator of the Mindful Parenting Course and Teacher Training. Find more

Are youth sports helping our kids thrive—or pushing them too hard? In this episode of the Mindful Mama Podcast, Hunter talks with Chris Bjork about how youth sports are changing—and what that means for our kids. Together, they explore the pressures kids face in competitive sports, what parents can do to protect their well-being, and how we can bring balance back into their lives. What you’ll hear in this episode: The emotional and physical toll of competitive sports on children Why unstructured free play is just as important as organized sports How parents can make mindful, informed choices about their child’s activities The warning signs of burnout—and how to prevent it Why kids benefit from exploring many activities before specializing in one sport A new perspective on youth sports: focusing on joy, growth, and connection over pressure and competition ABOUT HUNTER CLARKE-FIELDS: Hunter Clarke-Fields is the host Mindful Parenting Podcast (Top 0.5% podcast ),