Scrambled: The Children‘s Mental Health Podcast

Episode 129 - 'Perfectionism and the Sneaky Anxiety We Praise'

In this episode, Chad and Nikki take a closer look at perfectionism in kids and why a trait so often praised by adults can actually be a hidden sign of anxiety. They explore the difference between healthy striving and unhealthy perfectionism, the subtle warning signs parents may miss, and how the pressure to always “get it right” can impact a child’s mental health. Finally, tips for how to help kids build confidence, resilience, and self-worth that isn’t tied to achievement are shared.

Episode 128 - 'The Power of 10 Minutes'

In a world that tells parents they need more time, more resources, and more perfect moments, Nikki and Chad  explore the surprising power of just 10 intentional minutes. In this episode, they discuss how small moments of connection, attention, and repair can have a lasting impact on childhood mental health, strengthen relationships, and help kids feel seen, safe, and supported—even on the busiest days.

Episode 127 - 'How Small Changes in Wording and Tone Can Make a Big Difference'

There is more to communication than words. In this episode, Chad and Nikki talk about how small changes in what we say and how we say it can make a big difference to our kids.

Episode 126 - 'What Therapists Wish Parents & Teachers Knew'

Kids aren’t usually trying to be difficult—they’re usually struggling. In this episode, Nikki and Chad talk about what therapists wish parents and teachers understood about behavior, meltdowns, consequences, anxiety, and why collaboration beats blame every time.

Episode 125 - 'Discipline Without Guilt & Shame'

In this episode, Chad and Nikki  explore how to discipline children without relying on guilt or shame. We break down why those approaches don’t work long-term and share practical ways to set boundaries, teach skills, and repair after tough moments.

Episode 124 - 'Who's Who in Mental Health'

Nikki and Chad break down the many types of mental health professionals and what each role actually does. From therapists and counselors to psychologists, psychiatrists, and social workers, we explore the differences in training, approach, and scope of practice—especially when it comes to therapy, diagnosis, and medication. Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or helping someone else navigate the system, this episode aims to demystify who’s who in mental health so you can find the right kind of help with more confidence.

Episode 123 - 'Depression Spectrum'

In episode 123 of Scrambled, Chad and Nikki explore a key idea: Depression isn’t just one thing, it’s a spectrum. They break down the different types of depressive disorders, how they vary in intensity and duration, and why context (like life stage, seasons, or health) matters. The goal is to simplify a complex topic, reduce stigmas, and help listeners better understand what depression can really look like.

Episode 122 - 'Get Moving'

Nikki and Chad explore how exercise and everyday movement can help manage anxiety and support emotional wellbeing for kids, families, and adults

Episode 121 - 'Anxiety Raising Anxiety'

Parents can have anxiety too. In this episode, Chad and Nikki unpack how parental anxiety shows up in family life and share concrete, research-informed strategies to help you manage it, so your child’s emotional wellbeing can thrive.

Episode 120 - 'Bedtime/Sleep Issues'

In their 120th episode of Scrambled, Nikki and Chad have a general conversation about some of the challenges parents may face at bedtime as well as the importance of healthy sleep to overall wellbeing.