Raising Us: A Parenting Podcast

Artificial Intelligence is everywhere — from ChatGPT to TikTok algorithms, AI is transforming childhood, parenting, and everything about how we live today.Creator and co-host of podcast Life With Machines Baratunde Thurston chats with Elise Hu about the ways we can help kids and ourselves navigate this new technology with curiosity and care. Learn how kids are engaging with AI today, and why adults and grownups need to learn alongside kids rather than just supervise them. By approaching an understanding with humility and setting practical and healthy boundaries with AI, parents can confidently help navigate using AI as a tool, instead of something to stay away from.Key takeaways for parents:Compare how kids of different ages use tech, and tailor your guidance to their stage.Ask your child how information moves among friends, and practice checking before sharing.Point out where AI shows up in daily life, and invite the child in your life's perspective on it.Admit what you don’t know, and show curiosity so kids learn alongside you.Break down AI as a tool, a platform, or a concept, so kids can see its different roles.⏱️ Timestamps:Keep the conversation going at home with our FREE Conversation Kit companion guide: https://delivery.shopifyapps.com/-/227992a4494016f2/b694b2dbd557aa6eFollow Baratunde Thurston on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/baratunde/New episodes every Tuesday:YouTube: https://swap.fm/l/P8iCjNFnIWI7kTmU0vmkApple: https://swap.fm/l/kCnCRNdWkpuYYbyzyE77Spotify: https://swap.fm/l/SOQe4gSHh3vVIwPGFDetOr wherever you get your podcasts.🔗 START HERE📌 Get free weekly conversation kits: https://akidsco.com/pages/raising-us📌 Browse A Kids Co. books that pair with episodes: https://akidsco.com📌 Follow Elise Hu: https://www.instagram.com/elisewhoABOUT THE SHOWRaising Us | Parenting Podcast for Kids, Tweens, & Conscious CaregiversAward-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.Follow on:YouTube: https://swap.fm/l/P8iCjNFnIWI7kTmU0vmkApple: https://swap.fm/l/kCnCRNdWkpuYYbyzyE77Spotify: https://swap.fm/l/SOQe4gSHh3vVIwPGFDetOr wherever you listen to your podcasts.If you like parenting podcasts like Good Inside with Dr. Becky, The Longest Shortest Time, Raising Good Humans or Ask Lisa, this podcast is for you.Topics Covered on Raising Us:Parenting kids and tweensMental health for kidsTalking to kids about racism, identity, and inclusionScreen time and social mediaPuberty, anxiety, and big feelingsBuilding emotional intelligence in familiesConscious and values-driven parentingElise Hu parenting podcastA Kids Co. podcast series Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What does it really mean to raise kids who see every brain as worthy of belonging? In this episode, Elise Hu talks with actress, director, and author Lake Bell about her daughter’s journey with epilepsy and how that shaped her own understanding of neurodiversity. Later, ADHD advocate and creator of How to ADHD Jessica McCabe shares practical ways parents can explain neurodivergence, involve kids in their own care, and shift the conversation from “fixing” to thriving. From ADHD to epilepsy to dyslexia, we explore how to talk about brain differences in ways that build empathy and confidence at home. Key Takeaways: Validate your child’s experience, even when others may dismiss itTalk openly about your own brain differences to reduce shameInvolve kids in decisions about their own treatment and supportNormalize differences as part of the human condition, not something to “fix” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Puberty can feel awkward, confusing, and even scary for kids (and parents!). Pediatrician and bestselling author Dr. Cara Natterson shares how to turn those hard moments into honest, supportive conversations that help kids feel confident about their changing bodies. Puberty today starts earlier and lasts longer. From growth spurts and acne to mood swings and silence, kids need language that reduces shame and builds trust. Parents can provide it, even when it feels uncomfortable. With the right words and presence, parents can make it a time of learning, resilience, and connection.  Key takeaways for parents:Talk about body changes, periods, erections, and hormones early, and keep talking.Explain the science behind mood swings so tweens and teens know it’s normal.Use everyday moments (car rides, dinner, bedtime) to open conversations.Teach correct anatomical terms to reduce shame and improve safety.Model openness, humor, and persistence. Puberty is a marathon, not a sprint. 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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How do you talk to your kids about the political violence that’s unfolded this week, and over the past couple of years? And how much do you say? In this mini episode, we share a part of a conversation between Elise Hu and educator and author Sharon McMahon to help families talk about political differences with compassion, even when emotions run high. The full conversation about how to talk to your kids about democracy arrives later this season. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.