Raising Independent Kids in a Digital World with Psychotherapist Nicole Runyon | Episode 94

Raising healthy, resilient children has never felt more complex. From screens and ultra-processed food to rising anxiety and dependence, many parents feel like they are working against the modern world.

In this episode, I sit down with psychotherapist Nicole Runyon to unpack what is really driving these challenges. We explore child development, the impact of technology and nutrition, how to foster independence, and what it means to support your child without overprotecting or over-accommodating.

Nicole and I talk about:

• Why too much screen time disrupts development and emotional regulation
  • Why children need discomfort, boredom, and challenge to build resilience
  • How to hold boundaries while staying deeply connected to your child
  • Practical ways to foster independence at every stage of childhood
  • Why your child’s behaviour is often a reflection of your own unresolved patterns
  • Simple ways to strengthen connection, trust, and attachment in your family
  • How to teach kids to take responsibility instead of blaming others
  • Why parents need to step into leadership rather than trying to be their child’s friend

Nicole Runyon, LMSW, is a psychotherapist, parent coach, keynote speaker, and author of the bestselling book Free To Fly: The Secret To Fostering Independence In The Next Generation. Nicole is renowned for her expertise in child and adolescent mental health, backed by an extensive 22-year career in the field. Most importantly, she is the mother of two children.

Episode Links: 

• Follow Nicole on Instagram
• Connect with Nicole on LinkedIn
• Visit Nicole’s website
• Get a copy of Free to Fly

Come say hi to me on Instagram

Books to Thrive in Motherhood: Dive into The Motherhood Reset, Nourished Mama, and Mama Let It Go to overcome burnout and become a healthy, energized mom. 

Picky Eating Guide: Learn about common but lesser-known reasons kids are picky eaters and practical strategies to help children enjoy healthy foods.

Resources I Am Loving

   The Brain Health Movement – Whole Child Healing Roadmap is a science-backed courses that decode the root causes of your child's struggles. Get £200 off with code WILDANDWELL

   MamaZen App – Become a happier and calmer mom through cognitive hypnotherapy, CBT, and mindfulness. Use code 9c

Fertility & Beyond – Natural solutions for your fertility struggles

I would never recommend anything I don’t regularly use myself or trust completely. Some of the links are affiliate links, and others are special discount codes. Either way, all of these are products and resources I genuinely love and recommend.

Wild and Well is a podcast dedicated to holistic health for moms, postpartum recovery, and children’s wellness. We explore everything from functional health for women and gut health to pregnancy and postpartum wellness to nervous system regulation and motherhood burnout. Each episode offers practical tips for self-care for new moms, guidance on picky eating and parenting, and strategies to support your family’s natural kids’ health, so you can feel healthy, strong, and vital in motherhood.