Raising Us: A Parenting Podcast

This is the first episode of Raising Us, a new podcast from A Kids Co. about the questions our kids are already asking...and how we answer them. What do kids learn when they hear “fat” used like an insult? And what do we say when they turn that word on themselves? In this episode, we talk about how to name fatphobia, challenge it, and model true body respect at any size. Back-to-school season often brings comments about weight, growth, and how bodies “should” look. For parents of tweens and teens, it’s a critical time to talk about body image, confidence, and how kids feel in their own skin. Model and body activist Tess Holliday shares what it was like growing up in the South, taking up space, and parenting through shame. Later, author and journalist Virginia Sole-Smith offers practical ways to push back on harmful beauty standards and make space for more honest conversations at home. Whether you're unpacking what you grew up hearing or just trying to find the right words, this conversation is a place to begin. Raising Us is hosted by Elise Hu, an award-winning journalist and mom of three, known for her warm, candid approach to tough conversations. Each week, she breaks down big questions families are facing, with help from expert voices and real-life stories. Key Takeaways:“Fat is just another way to have a body.” Reclaiming the word fat helps kids build respect, not shame.“Perfection isn’t the goal. Showing up is.” Modeling body acceptance starts with honesty.“If we don’t talk about fatphobia, kids will believe the dominant story.” Silence reinforces bias. Conversation builds empathy.

Award-winning journalist Elise Hu (TED Talks Daily, Forever35) hosts Raising Us, a parenting podcast for grownups raising Big-Question Kids. From puberty and identity to tech and body image, each episode gives you tools to spark real conversations with the kids in your life. Created by A Kids Co. (a family media company) the show blends expert-backed insights with real, lived experiences featuring trusted doctors, educators and purpose-driven public figures sharing age-appropriate advice so you don’t have to wing the hard stuff.

Parenting isn’t just about raising kids, it’s about raising ourselves, too. From “kids are resilient” to “toughen up,” journalist and mom of three Elise Hu unpacks the cultural scripts families pass down and reframes them with reporting, expert voices, and real-life stories. Every episode of Raising Us comes with a free conversation kit to spark connection around your dinner table, on the drive to school, or before bedtime.New episodes begin September 9. Follow now so you don’t miss the first conversation: body image, confidence, and the messages our kids carry for life.

Harold Hughes, author of A Kids Book About Blockchain, talks about fostering curiosity and conceptual discussion of an evolving technology called blockchain.A Kids Book About Blockchain (view book)Full Book Description:This book helps foster curiosity and conceptual discussion of an evolving technology called blockchain. Through big and small ideas about practical uses for it, a clear eye to the future, and with the author and his expertise guiding the reader each step of the way, learn how blockchain has the power to bring positive change now.About the Author:Harold Hughes (he/him) is a first-generation American who was raised in a Jamaican household. As a startup founder and dad to Carter and Camryn, he lives the importance of work-life prioritization, not balance. Harold and his wife, Tiffany, are raising their kids in Austin, Texas. He is co-leading Black@ to foster community and bring more Black people into the Web3 space.

Rachel Burger, author of A Kids Book About School, talks about what school is, why we go, and why it’s so important!A Kids Book About School (view book)Full Book Description:What does going to school mean for you? A lot of people will think of history, science, or PE class. But did you know school can teach you so much more? Like how to connect with other people, communicate well, problem-solve, and discover the things you love the most. School is a journey, and this author (and teacher) is here to encourage you along the way!About the Author:Rachel Burger (she/her) is an English teacher and writer. She enjoys listening to podcasts, painting, and seeing friends. When she is not writing or teaching, she is likely spending time with her husband, 2 sons, and their dogs. 

AJ Thomas, author of A Kids Book About Teams, and daughter Ava Thomas talk about how teams are everywhere, and you’ll be a part of so many throughout your life!A Kids Book About Teams (view book)Courage Takes Flight (view book)Full Book Description:A team is any group of people who have a shared passion or goal, and do you want to know something fun? Teams are EVERYWHERE. You’re probably a part of more teams than you realize! You’ll belong to lots of different teams throughout your life, so open this book to learn what makes a team most successful, and how you can best work with others to achieve awesome things!About the Author:AJ Thomas (she/her) is a writer and speaker who believes that with a special group of people, and a combination of curiosity, courage, connection, and kindness, great things can happen!

Maeve Clinton, author of A Kids Book About Chemotherapy, talks about something that can be a scary thing to talk about—take a breath, play the episode, open the book, and bravely start that conversation.A Kids Book About Chemotherapy (view book)Full Book Description:Chemotherapy is a treatment for cancer, and talking about cancer and illness can be hard sometimes. But this author is here to encourage you to ask big questions and guide you through what your person might experience while going through chemotherapy. You’re so brave, and you’ve got this!About the Author:Maeve Clinton (she/her) is a licensed social worker and children's therapist. Her mom was diagnosed with ovarian cancer when Maeve was 5 years old. Maeve’s hope is that you’ll talk with your kids, give them the opportunity to ask big and scary questions, and that you’ll share how you’re feeling, too.

Kali Thorne Ladd, author of A Kids Book About Hope, talks about an irreplaceable, never-ending thing which exists in and around all of us.A Kids Book About Hope (view book)Full Book Description:What does it mean to have hope? Hope is trusting that good things are possible, no matter the circumstances. It’s also something we all have inside and can give to those around us. Hope is a powerful choice we can make to bring about change, healing, and light to the world we all share.About the Author:Kali Thorne Ladd (she/her) is a social entrepreneur, passionate about the neuroscience of love and belonging as a driving force for education transformation and human flourishing. Kali was the founding Executive Director of KairosPDX, a school and nonprofit organization anchored in the rehumanization of children in education. She is currently CEO of the Children’s Institute.

Dr. Heather Chow, author of A Kids Book About Puberty, talks about how every person experiences these changes in their own way, and the more we talk about them, the less scary they seem.A Kids Book About Puberty (view book)Full Book Description:OK, let’s say this word together: puberty. That wasn’t so bad, right? Puberty is a completely normal part of growing up, but it can feel really weird to talk about—for grownups and kids. Every person experiences these changes in their own way, and the more we talk about them, the less scary they seem.About the Author:Dr. Heather Chow (she/her) is living her kindergarten dream as a pediatrician. She loves building trusting relationships with her patients and their parents in order to help them navigate the physical and emotional complexities of growing up, especially when it comes to issues that often seem difficult to talk about.

Neha Shulka, author of A Kids Book About Sleep, talks about AI and its powerful potential.A Kids Book About AI (view book)Full Book Description:Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a powerful technology that’s transforming our world today. We can run from it, or we can understand it and use it to reimagine a more innovative and inclusive future. This author introduces the topic for kids and grownups, providing an entry point to make better sense of the power and possibilities of AI.About the Author:Neha Shukla (she/her) is 18 years old and an inventor, social entrepreneur, activist, and AI ethicist at the World Economic Forum. Her work developing tech for social good is recognized in the New York Times, Forbes, Harper’s Bazaar, Bloomberg, and commended by President Biden and the British Royal Family.

Katie Pitts, author of A Kids Book About Sleep, talks about an amazing thing which helps us be the best version of ourselves.A Kids Book About Sleep (view book)Full Book Description:You may not know it yet, but sleep is awesome! Every living thing needs sleep: you, your grownup, your teacher, EVERYONE. Why? Sleep is when our brains and bodies rest and get stronger. Getting good sleep is how we stay healthy and are able to do all our favorite things. And here’s something extra special: sleep helps us be the best versions of ourselves with each new day. About the Author:Katie Pitts (she/her) is the well-rested founder and CEO of Sleep Wise Consulting. After her newborn son showed her the effects of sleeplessness firsthand, Katie’s life mission became to educate, inform, and inspire people of all ages to experience the life-changing results of a good night’s sleep.*If you want to be on a future episode of A Kids Book About: The Podcast or if you have a question you’d like us to consider, have a grownup email us at listen@akidsco.com and we’ll send you the details. 

Yonina Schnall Lermer, author of A Kids Book About Perseverance, talks about reframing something you “can’t do” into something you “can’t do”...yet.A Kids Book About Perseverance (view book)Full Book Description:What if you found out there was a tiny word that could change your frustrations into opportunities? When we tell ourselves, “I can’t do this,” we give up. But when we say, “I can’t do this…yet,” we’re opening ourselves to the possibility of growing through challenges, also called perseverance. Join this author in practicing perseverance, adding “yet” to your vocabulary, and learning the value of continued effort toward the things you love, even when it gets hard.About the Author:Yonina Schnall Lermer (she/her) is a licensed New York state teacher with a masters in elementary education. Yonina has taught almost every grade level and subject in elementary and middle school, and served as a literacy curriculum coordinator, teacher mentor, and summer camp head. She coaches parents to become advocates for their kids and is passionate about helping others “fail forward.”*If you want to be on a future episode of A Kids Book About: The Podcast or if you have a question you’d like us to consider, have a grownup email us at listen@akidsco.com and we’ll send you the details. 

Shahd Alasaly, author of A Kids Book About Humanitarianism, talks about how anyone can be a humanitarian, and you can start today!A Kids Book About Humanitarianism (view book)Full Book Description:“Humanitarian” is a BIG word that really just means being a kind, compassionate person who has empathy for others. Does that sound like you? Learn what it means to be a humanitarian and how you can help your community today using the gifts and talents that make you special. Small acts of kindness go a long way!About the Author:Shahd Alasaly is a mother, entrepreneur, and social researcher. Her dedication to community-building and humanitarian work is inspired by her passion for spreading love and empathy in all aspects of life. Her vision for a brighter future continues to motivate her. *If you want to be on a future episode of A Kids Book About: The Podcast or if you have a question you’d like us to consider, have a grownup email us at listen@akidsco.com and we’ll send you the details. 

Jackson Cooper, author of A Kids Book About Kindness, talks about how kindness is for everyone, and everyone can show kindness, every day!A Kids Book About Kindness (view book)Full Book Description:Do you know what kindness is, really? Do you think being kind to someone means that you’re weak? Do you think you can't be kind to yourself? Here's a little secret…sharing kindness is one of the coolest things you can do! You're never too old, or too young, or too busy to be kind. Anyone can be kind to others, and to themselves, every day!About the Author:Jackson Cooper (he/him) is an arts leader and writer based in Seattle, Washington. He has 15+ years of experience working in the arts, producing over 100 live classical music concerts, theater performances, film retrospectives, and chamber music presentations. He holds an MFA from Seattle University. *If you want to be on a future episode of A Kids Book About: The Podcast or if you have a question you’d like us to consider, have a grownup email us at listen@akidsco.com and we’ll send you the details. 

Greg Davidson and Michael Wieder, co-authors of A Little Book About Trust, A Little Book About Home, and A Little Book About Love, talks about how sometimes even the littlest things can make a big difference in someone else's life to make them feel loved, to make them feel a sense of home, and to grow your trust with that other person or with yourself. A Little Book About Trust (view book)A Little Book About Home (view book)A Little Book About Love (view book)Full Book Description:For such a little word, trust means something pretty big! Trust is feeling safe, protected, and strong. And it’s something we can share and grow every day through what we do and say.Home can be a place, a feeling, a person, wherever you feel safe and strong. And the coolest part is where our home is and who makes us feel at home only grows as we do!We know a few things about love we’d like to share! Love is all around us, each and every day. And love is so big that it never, ever runs out.About the Authors:Greg Davidson (he/him) and Michael Wieder (he/him) are the co-founders of Lalo, and each have 2 little ones. They’re committed to supporting families and changing the way parents shop for their kids. Jenny Zych (she/her) is an illustrator living in upstate New York with her husband and 2 dogs. She loves making delightful images for all to enjoy.*If you want to be on a future episode of A Kids Book About: The Podcast or if you have a question you’d like us to consider, have a grownup email us at listen@akidsco.com and we’ll send you the details. 

Travis Chen, author of A Kids Book About First-Generation Immigrants, talks about how, when you’re a first-generation immigrant, a lot of things feel different from what you know. A Kids Book About First-Generation Immigrants (view book)Full Book Description:A new place to live, a new school, new foods, new smells, new noises—when you’re a first-generation immigrant, a lot of things feel different from what you know. This author immigrated to a new country with his family when he was a kid. He has been there, understands, and wants you to know that all the experiences that make you who you are…are amazing!About the Author:Travis Chen (he/him) is a Gen Z, Taiwanese American first-generation immigrant who was 3 years old when his family moved to the United States to pursue the American dream. Born in Taipei, Taiwan, and raised in Arcadia, California, Travis is recognized across the world as a tech entrepreneur and champion for mental health, and has been named to the LinkedIn Top Voice program and Forbes “30 Under 30” list.*If you want to be on a future episode of A Kids Book About: The Podcast or if you have a question you’d like us to consider, have a grownup email us at listen@akidsco.com and we’ll send you the details. 

Hi, listeners! It’s Matthew, your host. Our latest season of A Kids Book About: the Podcast begins next week, on Monday, January 29th. If you’re already subscribed to the podcast, you don’t need to do a thing. This season features episodes on kindness, perseverance, hope, love, and trust. We center conversations around humanitarianism, AI, being a first-generation immigrant, and chemotherapy.And that’s just the beginning. So tell your friends. Tell your classmates. Tell your family. Tell your trusted adults. Listen together, wherever. We can’t wait to share our stories, experiences, knowledge, and support with all of you very, very soon. In the meantime, visit akidsco.com to check out the books that are inspiring these conversations, as well as the authors whose voices and lived experiences are centered throughout these books and these podcast episodes. Bye for now!

Evelyn Yang, author of A Kids Book About Sexual Abuse, talks about speaking up in any situation that makes you feel uncomfortable. This is a rebroadcast of an episode that originally aired on April 19, 2021.A Kids Book About Sexual Abuse (view book)Full Book Description:Some of the most difficult things to talk about are also the most important. Sexual abuse happens more often than people realize but most kids don’t learn about it until after it happens. This book will help give them the language to understand what sexual abuse is and start the conversation around owning their bodies and trusting their instincts.About the Author:Evelyn Yang is a mom to two boys and an advocate for families. She is passionate about justice, neurodiversity, and food. Her platform and advocacy work have been an unexpected blessing after her husband ran for President. She still actively works on overcoming her own fears in order to use her experiences to help other people.*If you want to be on a future episode of A Kids Book About: The Podcast or if you have a question you’d like us to consider, have a grownup email us at listen@akidspodcastabout.com and we’ll send you the details. 

Ashley Simpo, author of A Kids Book About Divorce, talks about how children are never at fault when people get a divorce.This is a rebroadcast of an episode that originally aired on March 8, 2021.A Kids Book About Divorce (view book)Full Book Description:When divorce happens, it happens to everyone in the family and kids are left with a lot of questions. This is a tough conversation to have, and some of the answers can hurt. This book is meant to help start an honest discussion with kids about what to expect when parents go their separate ways - written by a parent who has been there. About the Author:Ashley Simpo is a writer, mother, and wellness advocate, writing about motherhood and civic issues through the lens of race, culture and politics. She lives in New York City where she co-parents her son Orion and leads conversations with and about mothers and children.*If you want to be on a future episode of A Kids Book About: The Podcast or if you have a question you’d like us to consider, have a grownup email us at listen@akidspodcastabout.com and we’ll send you the details.

Jordan Thierry, author of A Kids Book About Systemic Racism, talks about how systemic racism limited how he saw himself represented in film and career opportunities.This is a rebroadcast of an episode that originally aired on March 1, 2021.A Kids Book About Systemic Racism (view book)Full Book Description:Systemic racism is incredibly difficult to understand—even for grownups! This book was made to help kids understand what systemic racism is and how it’s built into laws, schools, stories, and other institutions in a way that collectively makes life much harder for people of color.About The Author:Jordan Thierry is a documentary filmmaker, activist, and storyteller. He has worked for over a decade to highlight the stories of people of color and working to undo the ongoing legacy of systemic racism in the U.S.A.*If you want to be on a future episode of A Kids Book About: The Podcast or if you have a question you’d like us to consider, have a grownup email us at listen@akidspodcastabout.com and we’ll send you the details.