In this uplifting episode, clinical social workers Heather and Kristina explore the transformative power of joy in parenting. They dive into how joy differs from happiness—while happiness can be fleeting, joy is an internal choice that nurtures fulfillment, contentment, and resilience. Heather and Kristina share how joy can be found in the small, everyday moments—like a child’s first steps or a shared moment of laughter—and how we can cultivate it through intentional presence and mindfulness. They also reveal the profound benefits of joy, from improved health to stronger relationships and greater emotional resilience. With practical tips on creating joy-filled spaces, engaging in meaningful family activities, and fostering a gratitude practice, this episode offers a warm and inspiring roadmap for parents looking to embrace joy in the midst of parenting challenges. This conversation is a heartfelt reminder that joy is not only possible—it’s essential. Tune in and discover how to infuse our parenting journeys with more joy, connection, and resilience.

Gear Up! Adventures In Parenthood is recorded and edited by Dave Purnell and produced by Jen Plante Johnson for the ODC Network in Holland, Michigan.

The ODC Network is a non-profit organization that strives to advance outdoor education and conservation in West Michigan.

Since 2000, The ODC Network has served over a million people through hands-on, outdoor learning experiences and conserved thousands of acres of native habitat through restoration and preservation projects.

The ODC Network’s vision is building a better community by connecting people, land and nature. To learn more and get involved go to: www.odcnetwork.org.

In this episode, clinical social workers Kristina and Heather dive deep into why self-care isn't a luxury for parents—it's a necessity for all parents to avoid burnout. With warmth and insight, they unpack the myths around parental selflessness and explain how prioritizing our well-being is essential to being the best parents we can be. From rediscovering hobbies and incorporating movement into our day, to setting healthy boundaries and leaning on community support, they share practical, relatable strategies that make a real difference. The conversation also explores how the pandemic has reshaped parenting stress, the value of adult connection, and when to seek professional help. Whether a new parent or deep in the trenches, this episode offers encouragement, perspective, and tools to help us thrive—not just survive—in our parenting journey.

Gear Up! Adventures In Parenthood is recorded and edited by Dave Purnell and produced by Jen Plante Johnson for the ODC Network in Holland, Michigan.

The ODC Network is a non-profit organization that strives to advance outdoor education and conservation in West Michigan.

Since 2000, The ODC Network has served over a million people through hands-on, outdoor learning experiences and conserved thousands of acres of native habitat through restoration and preservation projects.

The ODC Network’s vision is building a better community by connecting people, land and nature. To learn more and get involved go to: www.odcnetwork.org.

In this episode, clinical social workers Kristina and Heather explore the dynamics of family-centered versus child-centered homes and why finding balance is key to a healthy family life. They explain how putting children at the center of the family can lead to anxiety, enmeshment, and unhealthy parent-child dynamics. Using the metaphor of the "family wheel," they illustrate how parents should be the hub, with children as the spokes, creating a stable foundation for everyone. The duo emphasizes the importance of keeping emotional “backpacks” separate for parents and children to avoid overloading kids with adult concerns. Kristina and Heather dive into the challenges of child-centric homes, from increased anxiety to marital strain, and offer practical advice for teaching kids resilience and emotional management. They also discuss the importance of maintaining clear boundaries, responsibilities, and healthy family roles. If you're looking to build stronger family bonds and raise emotionally resilient children, this episode is packed with insightful tips you won’t want to miss!

Gear Up! Adventures In Parenthood is recorded and edited by Dave Purnell and produced by Jen Plante Johnson for the ODC Network in Holland, Michigan.

The ODC Network is a non-profit organization that strives to advance outdoor education and conservation in West Michigan.

Since 2000, The ODC Network has served over a million people through hands-on, outdoor learning experiences and conserved thousands of acres of native habitat through restoration and preservation projects.

The ODC Network’s vision is building a better community by connecting people, land and nature. To learn more and get involved go to: www.odcnetwork.org.