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Episodes

Magical Thinking: Challenging the If Onlies....

This one's super short - a quick one on challenging magical thinking - the belief that singular changes can solve all problems. Tina encourages parents to guide their children through the realities of transitioning, ensuring they address all aspects of their well-being. Join us for a thoughtful discussion on balancing dreams with reality, and the importance of holistic support for our kids. As always, thanks for listening!

Sep 17, 20243 min

Navigating Boundaries as Parents of Gender-Expansive Kids

Today I'm exploring the complex and crucial concept of boundaries within the context of parenting a child exploring their gender identity. In this episode, we discuss the internal journey parents go through, including reassessing perceptions of gender and managing personal feelings, while maintaining support for their child. We emphasize the importance of keeping certain struggles private to focus on their child's well-being. We also address the delicate balance between showing pride and...

Sep 10, 20248 min

Following Your True North Star: Parenting Without Preconceptions

Welcome to another episode of North Star Parenting! I'm your host, Tina Neal, and today, I'm talking about a key part of North Star Parenting: getting out of our own way. Often, as parents, we find ourselves trying to shield our children from the challenges that scarred us, projecting our fears and dreams onto them. This episode explores the importance of dismantling these preconceived notions and truly seeing our children for who they are. We'll talk about how to clear the mental cl...

Sep 03, 20246 min

Media & Our Minds: How Repetition Feels Real

Welcome back to North Star Parenting! I'm your host, Tina Neal, and today's episode tackles a deeply concerning and timely issue: the impact of media misinformation on parents of transgender and gender-expansive children. With the prevalence of anti-trans rhetoric and misleading information in our culture, parents face a constant barrage of talking points that can undermine their confidence and decision-making. By understanding the biases in mainstream media and arming ourselves with acc...

Aug 28, 202411 min

Parents' Biggest Fear: Suicide

In this heartwarming episode of North Star Parenting, host Tina Neal addresses one of the most pressing fears for parents of gender expansive youth: the risk of suicide. This episode does not go into explicit detail around suicide, but more broadly discusses the risks and role parental support plays in reducing those risks. Join us as we navigate these difficult waters and affirm the incredible strength and love that families bring to their children's lives. And I'll put the main message...

Jun 01, 20247 minEp. 6

Find Your People! The Power of Other Parents

Today, we're diving into the unique and deeply important topic of community for parents of gender expansive youth. No matter how supportive your environment might be, there's nothing quite like connecting with other parents who understand the specific journey you're on. We'll explore the power of shared experiences, the importance of support networks, and why fostering these connections can make a world of difference for you and your child.

May 25, 20247 minEp. 5

Your North Star: Of Course It's More Complicated Than That!

Supporting Your Gender-Expansive Child: "The first things parents need to do when a child starts exploring gender in any capacity is really look inward." In this episode, Tina looks at how parents can reach "neutral" in approaching gender, and why this is important. (Spoiler: It's so your North Star's light can shine clearly through!)

May 18, 20247 minEp. 4

Understanding Your North Star

Learn the core idea of our North Star—ensuring your child is happy and healthy in mind, body, and soul.

Apr 14, 20245 min

Guiding Your Gender Expansive Child with the North Star Method

Welcome back to North Star Parenting! If you're navigating your child's unique journey with gender, this is the place for guidance without the noise. We discussed embracing your child's exploration—whether they transition, identify as non-binary, or circle back to where they started. Here, we're not about prescribing paths but providing support. It's all about centering your child's happiness and health, helping you process information through the lens of what's best ...

Apr 14, 20245 minEp. 1