The Whinypaluza Podcast

What if the second half of your life could hold the deepest love of all?

In this heartfelt episode, host Rebecca Greene speaks with her childhood friend, Shana James, who happens to be a powerhouse relationship coach with decades of wisdom.

From perimenopause and disconnection to dating with real intention, we dive deep into how to create love that works—whether you’re married, single, or somewhere in between. If you’re longing for more intimacy, clearer communication, or just want to know you’re not alone…this episode is a must-listen.

Key Takeaways:

 ➔ Shana believes midlife isn’t a love crisis—it’s a love opportunity, when we’re finally self-aware enough to go deeper.

 ➔ Perimenopause can shake our confidence and intimacy, but open communication can turn struggle into closeness.

 ➔ If you’re not feeling connected in your relationship, try replacing criticism with vulnerable truth—what you’re really longing for.

 ➔ Dating over 40 doesn’t have to be miserable—Shana shares how compassion and curiosity changed everything for her.

 ➔ Even with chaos and to-do lists, moms deserve joy, connection, and a love life that feels fulfilling.

Shana Quotes Worth Repeating:

➔ “Sometimes we’re butterflies… with fangs.”

➔ “Our bodies don’t open when we feel misunderstood. Communication is foreplay.”

➔ “You’re not asking for too much. You’re asking for what your heart needs.”

Want more Shana?

➔ Website: shanajamescoaching.com

➔ Free book: shanajamescoaching.com/free

➔ Quiz: shanajamescoaching.com/quiz

➔ Email: shana@shanajamescoaching.com

Let’s keep connecting:

➔ Website: https://whinypaluza.com/

➔ Facebook: Whinypaluza Mom Group

➔ Subscribe, rate, and leave a review to help us grow!

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What happens when your teenager becomes the voice of calm, compassion, and clarity — and you find yourself learning from her?

In this special family episode of the Whinypaluza Podcast, Rebecca is joined by her husband, Seth, and their wise-beyond-her-years daughter, Ella. Together, they explore Ella’s new blog series, Teenage Tuesdays, and reflect on the first three powerful columns she’s written. From honoring emotions to learning how others want to be treated, Ella shares her experiences and hard-won insights from high school life — and Rebecca gets to experience every mother’s dream: hearing her daughter echo the very values she’s spent years teaching.
✅ 5 Key Takeaways:➡ Emotional validation is a must. Teens need permission to feel deeply — and space to share it.
     🗣️ “You can’t pour from an empty cup… and you also can’t minimize your feelings.” – Ella Greene

➡ Go beyond the Golden Rule. The Platinum Rule encourages empathy: treat people how they want to be treated.
     🗣️ “It’s not about what would make me feel better — it’s about what would make them feel better.” – Ella Greene

➡ Self-love attracts the right people. Teens who build confidence from the inside out build better connections.
➡ Done is better than perfect. Ella encourages teens to start now, refine later, and release the pressure to be perfect.
➡ Celebrate effort, not just results. When we focus on how hard we tried, success becomes self-defined.
📥 Catch up on Teenage Tuesdays:
👉 Read https://www.whinypaluza.com/2025/07/08/we-can-make-it-through/
📧 Send your teen questions to Ella:
She’s answering reader questions in next week’s column!

📬 DM Rebecca on Instagram or Facebook
👩‍👧‍👦 Join the Whinypaluza Moms Facebook Group – a free, supportive community for parents
📲https://www.instagram.com/whinypaluza_mom/?hl=enFB  https://www.facebook.com/whinypaluzaparenting
🌟 Support the show!
✔️ Rate & review the Whinypaluza Podcast
✔️ Subscribe and share with friends

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What if everything you thought you knew about raising neurodivergent children was actually making things harder for both you and your child?

Neurodivergent board-certified music therapist and mother of three autistic children, Samantha Foote, shares why traditional parenting approaches fail neurodivergent kids and how positive discipline transforms family dynamics.

Drawing from both clinical expertise and lived experience, she busts autism myths, reveals the power of curiosity over punishment, and shows parents how to support their children’s unique needs rather than trying to “fix” them.

Key Takeaways

➤ Be curious, not furious about challenging behaviors.
➤ Autistic children want friends but need social skills support.
➤ Create sensory spaces for each child’s specific needs.

➤ Music therapy builds new neural pathways in the brain.
➤ Get formal diagnosis for resources and self-understanding.

Notable Quotes
“Be curious, not furious. Kids don’t want to get in trouble. They don’t want to make you mad. They’re just living their life, trying to get through the day.”

“They’re not broken. They don’t need fixed. Just get curious about what support they need, and then give them that support as best you can.”

How to Reach Samantha Foote
Website: everybrainisdifferent.com
Find Board-Certified Music Therapists: cbmt.org
Platform: Every Brain is Different – offering a neurodivergent parenting community, consultations, and the Ultimate Guide to Parenting Your Neurodivergent Child

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How do you navigate the bittersweet emotions of watching your child graduate while learning to parent in new ways as they become adults?
In this heartfelt episode of Whinypaluza Wednesday, Rebecca Greene welcomes listeners with her family for an intimate discussion about major life transitions. The episode features daughter Ella discussing her new “Teenage Tuesday” blog column and the Platinum Rule – treating others how they want to be treated, rather than how you want to be treated.
Rebecca shares her deeply personal reflections on motherhood and graduation as her son Max transitions to college. She explores the emotional complexity of celebrating achievements while grieving the end of one parenting phase and beginning another. The conversation covers practical advice, including legal documents for 18-year-olds, managing college stress, and learning to “let go” without completely letting go.
The Greene family demonstrates real-life parenting dynamics, showing how every stage brings new challenges and how parenting evolves rather than ends. Rebecca emphasizes that showing up consistently matters more than being perfect.
Key Takeaways
➤ The Platinum Rule goes beyond the Golden Rule – Treat others how they want to be treated, which requires genuine understanding and respect for individual preferences.

➤ Parenting transitions are about new ways of holding, not letting go – As children become adults, the relationship evolves, but the connection remains strong.

➤ Every child gets a different version of you. Parents grow and learn with each child and phase, meaning younger siblings benefit from lessons learned.

➤ Success isn’t just about academics – Character, kindness, and how children treat others are equally important measures, often revealed through teacher comments about behavior.

➤ Showing up consistently matters more than being perfect – Parents need to be present and engaged, modeling how to handle being human rather than being flawless.
Quotes from the Episode
“The platinum rule is that you should treat everyone how they want to be treated, instead of treat everyone how you want to be treated.” – Ella Greene
“It’s not about being perfect. It’s about showing up, and it’s about just doing it every day and parenting every day… I just showing up makes me a good parent.” – Rebecca Greene
For more insights from Rebecca Greene and to read Ella’s “Teenage Tuesday” columns, visit: https://whinypaluza.com/

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What if the biggest real estate you own isn’t your house, but the space between your two ears?

Get ready to transform your mindset and manifest the life you truly desire!

In this powerful episode, Rebecca sits down with manifestation and mindset coach Suzan Peltekian, who made the bold transition from successful real estate agent to helping others unlock their unlimited potential. Suzan shares her life-changing philosophy, “the biggest real estate everyone owns is the one between their two ears,” and reveals practical strategies for parents to break generational patterns while raising conscious children. From vision boards to the power of “I AM” statements, this conversation is packed with actionable wisdom that will have you rewriting your story and stepping into your divine power as a parent and human being.

5 Key Takeaways
➤ Start manifesting by putting pen to paper and writing down 100 things you want from the moment you wake up to when you sleep – include how you want to feel, where you want to live, and what legacy you want to leave.

➤ Use the “Be-Do-Have” model instead of waiting to have something before you can be it. Focus on who you’re being first, because we don’t get what we want; we get who we’re being.

➤ Write and speak your vision in present tense using “I AM” statements, as these are the most powerful two words in English, and whatever follows them, you become.

➤ Practice gratitude as one of the highest vibrational frequencies available – when you’re in gratitude, you cannot simultaneously be in complaint, a bad attitude, or problem-focused thinking.

➤ Remember that as parents, you’re generational pattern breakers – your children learn from your beingness, not from what you tell them, so model the energy and mindset you want them to embody.

Guest Quotes
“We don’t get what we want. We get who we’re being.”

“It doesn’t take time to manifest. It takes alignment.”

Connect with Suzan Peltekian
Ready to supercharge your mindset and manifest your dream life?
Visit Suzan at https://superchargewithsuzan.com/ to learn more about her programs, including the Mind Gym (daily mindset training) and Manifest Mondays. 

Follow her on Instagram @superchargewithsuzan for weekly manifestation tips and join her free Facebook group for live Q&A sessions every Monday and Friday!

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How can we truly believe we’re “always enough” while acknowledging we’re “never done” growing – especially as mothers who constantly feel inadequate?
In this transformative episode of Whinypaluza, host Rebecca Greene sits down with licensed professional counselor and bestselling author Erica Bonham to explore the powerful concept behind her book title “Always Enough, Never Done.” Erica, a certified EMDR clinician, trainer, and ketamine-assisted psychotherapist, specializes in serving the LGBTQ community, abuse recovery, and trauma related to social and racial injustice.

The conversation delves into nervous system regulation, the challenges of perfectionism in parenting, and how we can break cycles of shame-bound beliefs while supporting our children’s sense of self-worth. Erica shares her expertise on EMDR therapy and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy and offers invaluable guidance for parents supporting LGBTQ children.

This episode is packed with wisdom about healing trauma, understanding our inherent worthiness, and creating a more inclusive world for our families.
5 Key Takeaways

➤ The Paradox of Worthiness: You are “always and already enough, lovable, worthy and inextricably connected to every other living thing on this planet” AND you’re in a constant state of growth and evolution – both truths can coexist without contradiction.

➤ Trauma Lives in the Body: Knowledge alone isn’t enough to heal trauma because it’s stored in the nervous system, not the frontal lobes. This is why body-based approaches like EMDR and somatic practices are essential for lasting change.

➤ Model Self-Compassion for Your Children: The best gift we can give our children is to deconstruct our own shame-bound beliefs first. Children see through our words to our actions and energy – we must genuinely believe in our own worthiness.
➤ Create Space for Difficult Conversations: Whether discussing LGBTQ issues, race, or other sensitive topics, approach them with curiosity, acknowledge your learning process, and focus on creating a world where everyone feels safe and valued.
➤ Healing is Both Individual and Collective: Personal nervous system regulation and trauma healing directly impact how we show up in relationships and communities, creating a ripple effect that contributes to collective healing.
Memorable Quotes from Erica
“Trauma doesn’t give a shit what we know. Your vagus nerve connects the brain stem to the gut – it doesn’t connect to the frontal lobes. So we can know all kinds of things, but when we’re activated, all of that goes right out the window.”
“If you wouldn’t say what you’re saying to yourself to your daughter, if you wouldn’t want that for your child – and if somebody showed up for your kid the way you show up for yourself, you’d be like ‘get away from my kid, you’re dangerous’ – then maybe we need to shift that.”
How to Reach Erica Bonham
Website: https://www.avoscounseling.com/ (for signed book copies and coaching packages)
Book: “Always Enough, Never Done” (available on Amazon or signed copies via website) Instagram: @avoscounseling
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/avoscounseling/
TikTok: @ericabonhamsomaticcoach 

YouTube: @ejbonham1207

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What if the secret to happiness isn’t found in perfection, but in celebrating yourself and finding joy in everyday moments?

In this special birthday episode, Rebecca Greene shares her reflections as she turns 49, offering 10 life lessons she’s learned about joy, parenting, and relationships.

Rebecca and Seth discuss practical wisdom about celebrating yourself, being a “tour guide” rather than a controller in parenting, and finding small joys throughout each day. This heartfelt episode combines personal storytelling with actionable advice for parents and anyone looking to live more joyfully.

Key Takeaways

➤ Celebrate Yourself: Don’t just celebrate everyone else – make your birthday special, be proud of your age, and teach your family how to celebrate you too.

➤ Find Small Joys All Day Long: Get excited about your coffee, your walk, reading a book, or watching TV with your spouse – happiness comes from appreciating everyday moments.

➤ Be the Tour Guide, Not the Controller: Your role as a parent isn’t to control your kids, but to facilitate and guide them as needed, especially as they grow older and become more independent.

➤ Connection Over Correction: Before jumping to criticism, ask yourself if what you’re about to say will bring you closer to your loved one or push them further away.

➤ Just Show Up: Your kids and spouse don’t need you to be perfect – they just want you to be present and show up when it matters.

Memorable Quotes
“I just want to enjoy every day. Book the freaking trip… my favorite memories are our traveling memories.”

“Your kid doesn’t want you to be perfect, and your husband doesn’t want you to be perfect. They want you to show up.”

Special Announcement
Teenager Tuesdays with Ella Greene – Their 16-year-old daughter Ella is launching a weekly column sharing “Eight Lessons from High School” and other teen perspectives. Check it out at whinypaluza.com!

Connect with Whinypaluza

• Website: https://www.whinypaluza.com/
• Join the free Whinypaluza Mom Group on Facebook
• Subscribe and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform
• Watch on YouTube

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What do you do when you’re overwhelmed, exhausted, and on the verge of a mommy meltdown—but the world keeps spinning anyway?

In this honest and relatable episode, Rebecca Green opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of June: from the chaos of end-of-school activities to the pressure of parenting milestones and the ever-present mental load of motherhood. Joined by her husband, Seth, they talk candidly about what leads to “mommy meltdowns,” how to cope with them in real-time, and—most importantly—how to recover with grace. If you’re a mom who’s ever cried in your car or yelled out of sheer exhaustion, this one’s for you.

🖋Key Takeaways:
You’re not alone – Even strong moms have breaking points.
Check the root, not the trigger – Meltdowns are rarely about just one thing.
Compassion over perfection – Grace matters more than a spotless kitchen.
Reset, don’t ruminate – Apologize, refocus, and move forward.
Small wins matter – Celebrate yourself throughout the day.

💬 Great Quote:
“I don’t want to take my stress out on anyone, including myself. Seth doesn’t deserve it. My kids don’t deserve it.” – Rebecca Greene

📣 Call to Action
→ Visit Whinypaluza.com for Rebecca’s free resources and blog.
→ Subscribe, like, and share this episode to help more moms bring their dreams to life.

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Are Your Teen’s Digital Habits Fueling Their Anxiety?

In this eye-opening episode of Whinypaluza, host Rebecca Greene speaks with licensed therapist Donna Moss about the rising epidemic of teen anxiety in today’s digital world. With 30 years of experience helping adolescents navigate life’s challenges, Donna provides invaluable insights into creating balance and supporting mental health in an increasingly complex world for young people.

Key Takeaways

→ Establishing a daily structure is essential for teens’ mental health – having consistent routines, hobbies, and adequate sleep helps combat anxiety by providing stability and purpose.

→ The combination of ubiquitous smartphones (starting around 2010-2011) and fear-based parenting has created what psychologist Jonathan Haidt calls “the anxious generation” – teens who spend more time on devices and less time in real-world social interactions.

→ Parents need to find the middle ground between being too controlling and too detached. They should listen more than they speak and create boundaries around technology use, allowing space for growth and independence.

→ Physical well-being significantly impacts mental health – ensure teens are getting enough sleep, eating properly, exercising regularly, and visiting their doctor for check-ups (medical issues can sometimes manifest as anxiety or depression).

→ Teens engage in black-and-white thinking well into their twenties – help them recognize this pattern and guide them toward seeing nuance and “gray areas” in situations that trigger anxiety.

Quotes from Donna Moss

“You need to have a plan, a schedule, a hobby, a thing every single day. Otherwise, you lose your motivation. If you avoid everything, then you don’t learn anything, you don’t grow.”

“Always be curious, not judgmental. Tell them, ‘You could tell me anything. It’s not gonna shock me, it’s okay. I’m not gonna tattle tale,’ and you gotta build that trust.”

Connect with Donna Moss

Website:
donnacmoss.com

Continuing education: Donna offers a two-hour course on her website that provides credits for social workers and mental health professionals in New York Therapy services: Currently accepting new clients in New York and Vermont

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What would happen if you got crystal clear on what you really want—then wrote it down and studied it every day? Could you manifest your dream life…and partner?

In this heartfelt and humorous episode, Rebecca and Seth dive deep into the power of manifestation. From Rebecca’s very specific “husband wishlist” to their shared vision for health, family, and financial abundance, the couple explores how clarity, consistency, and specificity fuel real-life results. Inspired by an interview with manifestation coach Suzan Peltekian (airing July 11, 2025), Rebecca shares her “vision homework” and encourages listeners to take intentional steps toward creating the life they want. Whether it’s a career shift, a dream car, or building a thriving family life, this episode is your loving push to journal it out, speak it into being, and manifest with purpose.
🖋 Key Takeaways
📝 Write it down! Clarity plus consistency equals manifestation.
 🌱 Your vision must be specific—“a nice car” won’t cut it.
📚 Use the power of daily review to rewire your mindset.
💡 Reflect on your core values before setting your goals.
💪 Revise your goals monthly and make them actionable.
💬 Great Quote
“I didn’t just manifest Seth—I studied my list every night like I was prepping for a test. And he showed up, checkmarks and all.”
📣 Call to Action
→ Visit Whinypaluza.com for Rebecca’s free resources and blog.
→ Subscribe, like, and share this episode to help more moms bring their dreams to life.

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