Todd and Cathy emphasized the importance of supporting children through their challenges, the need for parents to understand their children’s perspectives, and the significance of civic engagement, particularly voting. They also discussed the importance of critical thinking, questioning authority, and engaging with adults, while expressing concern about the current political climate and the need for honesty and transparency. Lastly, they shared their experiences and perspectives on leadership, the importance of creating spaces for real conversations, and the need for people to listen more and understand the potential impact of political changes on their lives.

For the full show notes, visit zenparentingradio.com.

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(00:09:30) ZPR Moment- “I Don’t Know”

(00:21:14) Civil engagement

(00:43:31) Talking to women **

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AI Summary

Supporting Children and Civic Engagement
Todd emphasized the importance of supporting children through their challenges, suggesting that this support should start early in their lives. He also discussed the need for parents to understand their children’s perspectives and not impose their own expectations. Todd further highlighted the significance of civic engagement, particularly voting, and expressed concern about the complacency of younger generations. He acknowledged that the current time is different from his own youth, but still believes that young people should be more engaged in the voting process.

Voting, Women’s Rights, and Change
Todd discussed the importance of voting and the impact of recent election cycles on the direction of the country. He expressed his concern about the erosion of women’s rights and the need for change. Todd also shared his personal experience of being a woman and working with women, emphasizing the importance of reproductive freedom and overall health. He encouraged others to register to vote and participate in the democratic process, despite differing opinions.

Embracing Uncertainty and Honest Parenting
Todd expressed his concern about the current political climate and the need for honesty and transparency. He emphasized the importance of valuing uncertainty and not pretending to have all the answers. Todd also discussed the concept of “Zen parenting,” which involves being honest with children about not knowing everything and encouraging them to find their own solutions. He highlighted the power of saying “I don’t know” as a way to promote self-discovery and decision-making in children.

Embracing Uncertainty in Parenting
Todd discusses the importance of acknowledging that one does not have all the answers, especially when it comes to parenting and understanding children’s perspectives. He emphasizes staying curious, demonstrating humility, and giving children the freedom to find their own path instead of imposing one’s own expectations. Todd plays clips from movies to illustrate his point about not pretending to know everything. The overall message is to be open-minded, avoid assumptions, and embrace the uncertainty of not having all the answers when it comes to raising children.

Encouraging Critical Thinking and Engagement
Todd discussed the importance of critical thinking and allowing children to form their own opinions, rather than imposing one’s own beliefs. He emphasized the need for children to learn to trust themselves and process information from various sources. Todd also touched on the topic of civil engagement, using the example of the upcoming election. He suggested that parents should engage their children in discussions about current issues, such as gun control, in a child-appropriate manner. Todd stressed the importance of finding common ground and understanding different viewpoints, rather than resorting to binary thinking.

Critical Thinking and Respectful Dignity
Todd discussed the importance of critical thinking and questioning authority, emphasizing that it doesn’t mean disrespecting elders or going against the grain. He highlighted the difference between respect and dignity, stating that everyone deserves dignity regardless of their actions. Todd also shared a conversation with a college girl who found Bible studies grounding, and he stressed the need to keep an open mind about different beliefs. He referenced George Carlin’s views on questioning authority and the importance of teaching children to do so. Todd also mentioned the need for parents to teach their children to question everything they read and hear, not just to respect authority figures.

Engaging Adults and Civic Responsibility
Todd emphasized the importance of engaging with adults and respecting their opinions, particularly in discussions about politics and civic responsibility. He shared a quote from psychologist Rick Weisbord, highlighting that being an engaged citizen is a moral responsibility that affects not just oneself, but others in the community and country. Todd also discussed the mental health benefits of civic engagement for children, as it provides them with a sense of purpose and belonging. He encouraged parents to have open conversations with their children about the importance of staying engaged and to listen to their children’s perspectives.

Changing Job Market and Voting Choices
Todd discussed the changing job market and its impact on young men, particularly those in blue-collar jobs. He noted that there are fewer job opportunities for men in certain sectors, such as manufacturing, which has been largely automated. Todd also highlighted the shift towards jobs in the service sector, such as teaching and nursing, which some men may not view as “manly” jobs. He shared his experience of engaging in a conversation with three men at a football game, where he learned that two blue-collar workers were not planning to vote, and the college-educated man was voting for Trump. Todd expressed his desire to encourage people to question their assumptions and research their voting choices more thoroughly.

Todd’s Leadership and Election Insights
Todd shared his experiences and perspectives on leadership, particularly in relation to the recent US presidential election. He emphasized the importance of treating others with respect and dignity, and the need for equal opportunities for all. Todd also discussed his interactions with blue-collar individuals, highlighting their differing perspectives on the election. He expressed his frustration with the narcissistic behavior of some individuals, particularly former President Trump, and the challenges of engaging in meaningful conversations with them. Todd also shared a personal anecdote about a young man who appreciated his conversation, despite the group’s departure to catch a bus.

Fostering Real Conversations and Voting
Todd discussed the importance of creating spaces for real conversations, particularly among men, and how these conversations can lead to personal growth and connection. He shared his experience of bringing his children with him to vote, emphasizing the value of civic engagement and the need to familiarize children with the voting process. Todd also encouraged men to consider the impact of their voting decisions on women, acknowledging that women are often fearful of the potential consequences of certain political outcomes.

Addressing Urgency and Holding Power Accountable
Todd expressed his concern about the lack of urgency and seriousness towards the potential changes in society, particularly for women, if a certain political candidate were to win the election. He emphasized the need for people to listen more and understand the potential impact of these changes on their lives. Todd also highlighted the importance of holding people in power accountable for their actions, regardless of their position. He encouraged everyone to engage in conversations about these issues and to participate in the democratic process, not just during elections but also in local decision-making processes.

Community of Love and Upcoming Events
Todd discussed the community of love, Teams, which provides support to its members and organizes Zoom calls. He mentioned an upcoming Zen talk with Chase Light, an organization created by students in Hinsdale High School to discuss mental health and offer support. Todd also talked about the Nami Walk and the upcoming Zcon event on January 24th and 25th. He expressed pride in the students who created Chase Light and encouraged others to join the community. Lastly, he thanked Jeremy Kraft for his support as a sponsor for the past 788 podcasts.

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