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Parenting Shrink Wrapped
Parenting Shrink Wrapped is your all-access pass to the wild and wonderful journey of raising kids! Hosted by Dr. Melissa Wellner, a double board-certified psychiatrist and child and adolescent psychiatrist, and Samantha Straub, a licensed therapist, educator, and parenting coach, this dynamic duo brings a perfect mix of professional expertise and mom humor. With five kids between them—and thousands more they’ve supported in their professional roles—they’re here to share practical strategies and real-life stories that will help you navigate everything from tantrums to teen drama. Whether you're handling sleepless nights or the chaos of carpool, you'll find relatable advice and a good laugh along the way. Strap in, because parenting is a ride, and we're here to make it a little smoother!
Parenting Shrink Wrapped
How to Talk to Kids About Depression: A Parent’s Guide to Emotional Language
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In this episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, Sam and Melissa sit down with Kendall Concini, author of Cloudy Day Chronicles, to explore what it looks like to parent while navigating your own depression. Through a simple “cloud” metaphor, Kendall shares how she helps her young children understand emotional struggles without fear or confusion—giving them language, reassurance, and clarity.
This conversation highlights the power of emotional honesty in parenting, showing that kids don’t need perfection. They need understanding. From building emotional intelligence to reducing anxiety, this episode offers practical, compassionate insight for any parent navigating hard days.
About Kendall
Kendall’s greatest adventure began not on the page, but at home, as a mother. Alma and Max aren’t just characters, they’re her children and wildest inspirations. They even helped co-write some of the funniest (according to them) one-liners in her pages. Alongside her husband, Matt, Kendall fills their days with laughter, curiosity, and the right amount of weirdness. Their dog, Kiaora, prefers quiet days on the couch with a blanket and a good book. When they’re not exploring together, the family can be found where the wild things are.
Learn more about Kendall and her book.
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Work with Us:
Sam – Teen Savvy Coaching
Melissa – Annapolis Psychiatry
Free Parenting Resource: Learn the L.O.V.E.D. framework for handling tricky convos.
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This podcast is educational in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental-health care.