Parenting On Empty

What does it really mean to teach your kids to tell the truth? In this episode of Parenting on Empty, we dive into one of the most challenging—and important—aspects of parenting: honesty. From little white lies to deeper breaches of trust, every parent faces the moment when their child isn’t fully truthful. So how do you respond in a way that builds character instead of fear? Drawing on insights f...

Is public school the best option for every child? In this episode of Parenting on Empty, David and Tamara talk honestly about their decision to homeschool their high schooler—and why education doesn’t have to be a one-size-fits-all approach. From public school struggles to discovering flexible homeschool and charter school options, they share what worked, what didn’t, and how parents can confident...

Parenting doesn’t stop when your body does. In this episode of Parenting on Empty, David and Tamara McGinnis talk honestly about what it looks like to parent while dealing with physical pain, chronic issues, and emotional fatigue. From bad knees to burnout, they explore how to stay connected with your kids when you don’t have 100% to give. They share practical ways to: • Communicate your limitatio...

What if the goal of parenting isn’t just getting through the day—but raising capable, compassionate adults? In this episode of Parenting on Empty, we sit down with friends Brian and Renee to explore a powerful parenting philosophy: raising adults, not children. From balancing freedom and control to teaching responsibility, communication, and empathy, this conversation dives deep into what it reall...

Welcome to Parenting on Empty! If you’re trying to raise confident, independent kids without damaging your relationship along the way, this episode is for you. In this episode, we dive into how to teach children independence at every stage of life—from total dependence at birth to full independence as young adults. We talk about the challenges parents face when letting go, how to avoid being overl...

In this episode of Parenting on Empty, we dive into how to find energy as a parent, even when daily routines, discipline, and life feel overwhelming. We talk honestly about parenting burnout, emotional exhaustion, and practical ways to recharge—both with your kids and on your own. From physical connection and creativity to alone time and self-care, this episode is packed with relatable insights an...

If you’ve ever felt discouraged when things didn’t go as planned—or wondered if all the effort was even worth it—this conversation will challenge and encourage you. ✨ Key takeaway: You’re not investing in the event… you’re investing in your family. 🎯 What You’ll Learn: • Why “the happiest place on earth” can still feel stressful • How unrealistic expectations can ruin meaningful experiences • Th...

Are you putting too much pressure on making every moment perfect as a parent? In this episode, we dive into a powerful mindset shift: building for the memory, not the moment. So often, parents feel discouraged when experiences don’t go as planned—when kids complain, argue, or seem uninterested. But what if those same “failed” moments are actually becoming some of your children’s most cherished mem...

In this episode of Parenting on Empty, we continue our mini-series on emotions by diving into one of the most common challenges parents face—frustration. Through personal stories, parenting experiences, and practical insight, this episode explores why frustration happens, how unrealistic expectations can fuel it, and how both parents and children can learn healthier ways to respond. From building...

Do parents spend enough time with their kids? Should parents feel guilty when work, responsibilities, or life gets in the way? In this episode of Parenting on Empty, we explore the complicated role guilt plays in parenting. Is guilt always negative, or can it sometimes be a healthy motivator that helps us grow as parents? We discuss the difference between true guilt and false guilt, how social med...

Every child has a unique personality, and every parent brings their own attitudes and expectations into the parenting relationship. In this episode of Parenting on Empty, we explore how different personalities between parents and children can shape family dynamics, communication styles, and expectations at home. We discuss how parents sometimes try to guide children toward activities or traits tha...

Every child has a unique personality, and every parent brings their own attitudes and expectations into the parenting relationship. In this episode of Parenting on Empty, we explore how different personalities between parents and children can shape family dynamics, communication styles, and expectations at home. We discuss how parents sometimes try to guide children toward activities or traits tha...

In this episode, we sit down with longtime friend and tech professional Steve Galen to take a deep dive into the evolving relationship between technology and parenting. From the early days of Walkmans to the rise of personal devices, smartphones, social media, and apps like Snapchat, we explore how these digital shifts impact children, family dynamics, communication, safety, and character developm...

In Episode 11 of Parenting on Empty, we explore parental attitudes—the beliefs, assumptions, and emotional patterns that shape how we show up for our kids every day. From the pressures parents feel to “get it right,” to the subtle ways our own upbringing influences our responses, this episode helps caregivers understand why they parent the way they do—and how small mindset shifts can transform fam...

Parenting teenagers can feel like an emotional roller coaster—one minute they’re sweet and funny, the next they’re distant, overwhelmed, or pushing every boundary in sight. In Episode 10 of Parenting on Empty, we unpack what’s really happening in the teen brain, why so many families feel disconnected, and how exhausted parents can still shape strong, grounded, emotionally healthy young adults. Thi...

What if you viewed your children as heroes in the making—not perfect, not flawless, but growing into the best version of who they are meant to be? In Episode 9 of Parenting on Empty, we explore how parents can shape a child’s confidence, character, and purpose by intentionally speaking life into them, recognizing their strengths, and guiding them through challenges with honesty and love. This epis...

Struggling with kids who fight nonstop, siblings who know exactly how to push each other’s buttons, or constant bickering that drains your energy? In Episode 8 of Parenting on Empty, we break down why siblings fight, what’s really going on beneath the arguments, and how parents can guide kids toward respect, teamwork, and emotional maturity—even when you’re running on empty. Whether you’re dealing...

In Episode 7 of Parenting on Empty, we take a deep dive into one of the most common modern parenting challenges: overscheduled kids. From soccer practices to piano lessons, youth groups, theater clubs, and endless social invitations, today’s kids have more options—and expectations—than ever. Many parents feel pressured by peers, schools, coaches, and even their own children to keep piling on more...

In this episode of Parenting on Empty, we dive into how technology impacts our kids, our homes, and our ability to stay connected as a family. From screen time and smartphones to cyberbullying, online safety, and the loss of face-to-face communication, we explore the real challenges modern parents face. We share stories from our own family, discuss healthy boundaries, and offer practical ways to k...

In this episode of Parenting on Empty, we explore the real truth behind family vacations: they’re supposed to be relaxing… so why do they feel so exhausting? We discuss practical ways to plan kid-friendly trips, engage children at museums and historical sites, manage long travel days, and create meaningful memories—without burning out. From road-trip hacks to navigating Disneyland, this episode is...

In Episode 4 of Parenting on Empty, we dive deep into the unique challenges older parents face when their peers have already reached the empty-nest stage. Through a candid conversation with an empty-nester couple, we explore how relationships shift, how expectations differ, and what it takes to maintain healthy, respectful friendships when kids and quiet houses collide.

In this episode of Parenting on Empty, we explore the pros and cons of being “set in your ways” as an older parent. From treasure-box disasters to navigating teen independence, we talk about how stability can be a strength—but flexibility might save your relationship with your kids.

Episode 2 dives into one of the biggest challenges parents face: preserving the health of your marriage while raising kids. We talk about communication habits, scheduling intentional time together, setting boundaries with children, navigating nighttime fears (“Mom, can I sleep in your bed?”), and making decisions as a team—even when you disagree. Whether you’re running on fumes or just want a stro...

In this episode of Parenting on Empty , we talk openly about what it feels like to parent when your emotional tank is on “E.” From anxiety and overwhelm to those moments when you just can’t give your best — we dive into the hard stuff with honesty, laughter, and hope. If you’ve ever felt drained, guilty, or stretched too thin, this episode is for you.