Summary

In this episode of Shameless Parenting, Roger and Niall dive into a variety of listener questions, exploring the evolution of parenting perspectives, the changing role of fathers, and the challenges of modern parenting. They discuss the impact of sleep deprivation, societal expectations, and the complexities of identity in fatherhood. The conversation also touches on the struggles of intimacy in relationships, the influence of social media, and the importance of seeking support during tough times. With humor and honesty, they navigate the ups and downs of parenting, offering insights and encouragement to fellow dads.

Takeaways

Parenting changes your priorities and outlook on life.

Sleep deprivation is a common struggle for parents.

The role of fathers in parenting is evolving.

Societal expectations can create pressure on fathers.

It's important to communicate openly with partners.

Taking time for self-care is essential for parents.

Children's identities are shaped by their unique experiences.

Social media poses challenges for modern parenting.

Seeking support is crucial for mental health.

Intimacy in relationships can be affected by parenting responsibilities.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Hiatus Reflection

02:28 The Evolution of Parenting Perspectives

05:27 Cultural Shifts in Fatherhood

08:27 Navigating Parenting Challenges

11:15 Discipline and Parenting Methods

13:43 Listener Confessions and Guilt

15:16 The Importance of Family Resemblance

15:29 I lied to my wife so I could sleep at a hotel instead of going to work

22:49 Social Media and Parenting Concerns

22:52 Help my kid doesn't look like me

32:46 Age Restrictions on Social Media

38:11 Parenting in the Digital Age

42:59 The Social Dynamics of Teenagers

44:38 Legislation and Social Media in Ireland

44:40 The Rise of AI and Parenting Concerns

48:40 Maybe I'm just not cut out to be a father..

55:25 Navigating Fatherhood Challenges

01:03:00 Intimacy and Relationships Post-Children

01:09:30 Irish ironmen

01:11:34 shameless parenting outro

Keywords

parenting, fatherhood, listener questions, modern parenting, social media, intimacy, support, identity, challenges, relationships

Welcome back to another episode of “Shameless Parenting,” where today, Ryan and Steph dive into the whirlwind world of traveling with toddlers. Broadcasting from Melbourne, they share their recent experiences and tips on managing short domestic trips with young kids.

In This Episode:

• Travel Tales: Hear about Ryan and Steph’s latest adventure to Melbourne with their two children under two, including the unexpected benefits of having a spare seat on the plane and the game-changing impact it had on their travel experience.

• Packing Dynamics: Steph opens up about the mental load of packing for the family and how division of labor in their household influences travel preparation.

• Listener Question: A listener writes in, humorously lamenting about her husband’s minimalist packing and disengagement during flights, seeking advice on how to make him share the mental load. Steph and Ryan discuss strategies to encourage more proactive participation from less involved partners.

• Best & Worst of Travel Gear: The duo shares their top picks for travel essentials, including a foldable travel pram and the indispensable iPad for entertaining toddlers. They also discuss the pitfalls of certain types of drink bottles that can cause unexpected surprises mid-flight.

• Melbourne vs Sydney: Delve into the perennial debate between these two great cities from the perspective of a family who knows them both well. Discover which city wins on coffee, fashion, nightlife, and more.

Key Takeaways:

• How having a well-designed travel pram can make navigating airports and cities easier.

• The importance of being prepared with entertainment for young children, including digital and non-digital options.

• Tips for handling the unexpected, from dealing with exploding drink bottles to ensuring all family members’ needs are considered during packing.

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• Instagram: @ShamelessParenting

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Share your own travel tales and tips with us, and let us know if you have any topics or questions you’d like us to cover in future episodes!

Welcome back to another episode of Shameless Parenting. This week, Ryan and Steph share their whirlwind of experiences, from uninvited attic dwellers to urgent hospital visits.

In This Episode:

• Possum Problems: Discover how a mysterious smell led to an unexpected guest in the attic and the chaos that ensued at home.
• Hospital Hurdles: Join Ryan and Steph as they detail their intense few days in the hospital with their youngest, Rory, who was battling RSV. They share personal insights, the reality of high-flow oxygen treatment, and tips for other parents navigating similar challenges.
• Listener Question: A listener struggles with cultural clashes and an overbearing mother-in-law. Ryan and Steph discuss boundaries, cultural sensitivity, and strategies for managing family dynamics.

Best and Worst of the Week:

• Best: The extraordinary dedication of nurses and medical staff who go above and beyond for their patients.
• Worst: The stress and discomfort of having to deal with serious medical issues unexpectedly, particularly when it involves your children.

Key Takeaways:

• Practical advice for dealing with wildlife in your home.
• Understanding RSV and its impact on infants, including how to recognize serious symptoms that require medical attention.
• How to manage invasive family help in a way that respects both cultural differences and personal boundaries.

Listener Support: The best way to support the show is to become a subscriber! Join the family and subscribe to Shameless Parenting to receive bonus episodes, merch drops, exclusive social events, and early access to our parenting product launches!👉 ⁠Subscribe Now⁠

Connect with Us:

• Instagram: ⁠@ShamelessParenting⁠
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