TRUE COLORS: 8 Hidden Superpowers for a Brand-New School Year 🌈💎

Season 4 is here! 🎉 And we’re starting with a radical idea: what if some of the things we’re quickest to label as “problems” in middle schoolers are actually unfinished strengths?

In this episode, Suzanne explores potentiality—the difference between what something is right now and what it still has the capacity to become.

Because an argumentative kid might be developing the persistence of an advocate. A hyper-observant kid may be building extraordinary social intelligence. An overexplainer might someday become a powerful communicator. And the kid who feels everything may not need less empathy—they may need help learning how to use that empathy without carrying everybody else’s emotions.

Through middle school sociology, developmental science, classroom stories, a nearly indestructible Asheville geode, Holes, a few cognitive distortions, and Lieutenant Steve’s absolutely unforgivable excavation of a practically brand-new queen-sized memory foam mattress 🐶😂, we uncover eight hidden superpowers:

​🧠 Discernment and knowing which battles matter​👀 Reading the social world​👂 Deep listening​🗣️ Communication, argument & advocacy​🧰 Resourcefulness: being competent, capable & connected​❤️ Empathy with healthy boundaries​⚖️ The justice detector​🌱 Knowing who you are without abandoning yourself to fit in​

This is not about pretending trauma is a gift or telling kids that everything happens for a reason. Trauma is not the superpower.

It’s about asking a much more useful question:

Now what?

What can we build with what’s already here? What skill might be hiding underneath a difficult behavior? What happens when adults stop confusing unfinished with incapable?

As a new school year begins, last year’s evidence does not get to write this year’s conclusion. Your middle schooler is still becoming—and there are entire parts of them they haven’t even met yet.

💎 Stop looking for bruised apples. Start looking for geodes.

And next week: Spotlight People—big egos, emotional gravity, manipulation, boundaries, and what happens when everybody else starts organizing themselves around one person’s spotlight.

Stop. Regulate. Listen.

And stay clever, little foxes. 🦊

[email protected]

msmarypoppins.com

https://www.facebook.com/share/1HxRVp9juV/?mibextid=wwXIfr

https://youtube.com/@middleschoolmarypoppinspodcast?si=lHbYdjE5OxnYxV_m

Topics: middle school • tweens • teens • parenting • back to school • adolescent development • emotional regulation • neurodivergence • empathy • anxiety • resilience • social intelligence • self-esteem • boundaries • advocacy • executive functioning • parenting teens • parenting tweens • teachers • educators

🏕️ In the final episode of our SEL Summer Camp series, we bring together everything we’ve explored about the middle school years: the developing adolescent brain, screens and environment, emotions, anxiety, anger, resilience, identity, and belonging.

This episode is about understanding the whole middle schooler.

😳 Behavior does not happen in isolation. It happens inside a developing brain, a body, a family, a peer group, a school, a culture, and a community. When we stop asking only, “How do I stop this behavior?” and start asking, “What is happening with this kid?” we begin to see children differently.

Along the way, I take you back to Camp Sycamore Hills and some of the people and stories that shaped the way I think about kids and community: the mysterious one-eared rabbit, Rich and his Great Pyrenees, the Art Barn, Tractor Girl, the legendary kitchen manager who called me “Astor,” and the Shero Award that still reminds me to look out for the underdog.

We also talk about the power of music and memory, including why hearing Des’ree’s “You Gotta Be” still takes me straight back to that campfire and reminds me of the kind of person I want to be.

If you are raising, teaching, counseling, coaching, or simply trying to understand a tween or young teen, this episode is a reminder that middle schoolers are not finished products. They are growing people who need room to practice, make mistakes, recover, and know they still belong.

Because healthy communities do more than manage behavior.

They help build people.

🍪A huge thank-you to Jessica Ragnio & founder Dr. Jason Kahn for spending so much of SEL Summer Camp with us!

💰Use code MARYPOPPINS for 15% off Mightier. Learn emotional regulation through video games. Suzanne does not make any profit from Mightier. Just collabbing! 😁

And remember:

🏕️There is always room for the underdog around our fire.

We’ve been saving you a seat.

Next episode: We’re exploring the surprising strengths and “secret superpowers” that can sometimes develop from growing up in a difficult or emotionally complex childhood—and how those survival adaptations can become powerful tools with insight and healing. After that, “Spotlight People” & Ego! 🍿

#MiddleSchoolMaryPoppins #MiddleSchoolParenting #ParentingTweens #SocialEmotionalLearning #EmotionalRegulation #MiddleSchool #AdolescentBrain #TweenParenting #Resilience #Belonging #ChildDevelopment #BehaviorIsCommunication #ConnectionBeforeCorrection #MentalHealth #ParentEducation

This is the website at www.msmarypoppins.com or email Suzanne:

Suzanne [email protected] for inquiries, listener questions, and just to say hello!

🍎Apple Listeners: The show’s ratings were hacked & dropped to  3.1 rating from 4.9. It is under investigation currently. If you could help out & provide a positive star rating, it would mean everything! So grateful! Best, Suz & Steve🐶
—————————————————-In this special Deep Dive episode, Suzanne is joined once again by therapist Jessica Ragnio, MSW, LICSW, for one of the most important conversations of the Summer Camp series. Together, they explore what is really happening beneath explosive behavior—and why anger is so often protecting something much more vulnerable. 💜

Using Hawaiian volcanoes 🌋, ocean currents 🌊, and stories from Suzanne’s years in the middle school classroom, this episode unpacks the science and psychology behind emotional regulation in a way that is practical, compassionate, and surprisingly hopeful.

🧠 In this episode, you’ll discover:
• Why anger is often a secondary emotion
 • What happens inside the brain during emotional reactivity
 • How the amygdala can hijack logical thinking
 • The power of co-regulation—and why connection comes before correction
 • How to recognize the body’s warning signs before an emotional eruption
 • Why regulation is not about suppressing feelings
 • How to help tweens build awareness instead of shame
 • Practical strategies parents, educators, and caregivers can use today

FREE ACTIVITY FROM MIGHTIER:

⛑️Anger Volcanoes: Strategies to help   Effectively Deal with Teen/Tween Anger: 

https://www.mightier.com/resources/7-effective-anger-management-activities-for-kids/

Along the way, Suzanne shares personal stories, educational insights, and a few adventures with Lieutenant Steve and the Coconut Kingdom 🐾🥥—because learning does not have to be boring.

Whether you are raising a tween, teaching one, counseling one, or trying to better understand your own emotional responses, this episode offers science, encouragement, practical tools, and plenty of hope. 🌈

Because, as always…

💜 People grow best when they know they belong.

🏕️ Special thanks to our Summer Camp sponsor, Mightier!

 Visit Mightier.com and use code MARYPOPPINS to save 15%. Suzanne does not receive payment for Mightier, as she loves the system!

🎙️ Hosted by Suzanne M. Swain, EdS LMSW

 🌂 The Middle School Mary Poppins Podcast

 ✨ Stop. Regulate. Listen.

🎧 A heartfelt thank-you to my incredible producer, Janine Stella of StellaMix. Your creativity, talent, and countless hours behind the scenes help transform these conversations into something truly special each week. Thank you for believing in this mission and helping bring The Middle School Mary Poppins Podcast to families around the world. 💜

SEO Topics

Middle school anxiety • Cognitive distortions • Parenting tweens • Tween mental health • Emotional regulation • School anxiety • Adolescent brain • Friendship drama • Self-esteem • Parenting middle schoolers • Social Emotional Learning (SEL) • Executive functioning • Neurodivergent children • Autism • ADHD • Anxiety in girls • Anxiety in boys • Parenting podcast • Teacher resources • Family mental health • Brain-based parenting • Cognitive behavioral strategies • Middle school behavior

Send Suzanne a Question or Comment:

Support the show

🍎Apple Listeners: The show’s ratings were hacked & dropped to  3.1 rating from 4.9. It is under investigation currently. If you could help out & provide a positive star rating, it would mean everything! So grateful! Best, Suz & Steve🐶
———————————-

🌱 Garden of Weedy Thoughts: Helping Middle Schoolers Bust Cognitive Distortions & Calm Anxiety

Why does your middle schooler suddenly believe everyone is judging them? Why can one awkward interaction at school turn into “Nobody likes me!”? And why do worries seem to grow so quickly during adolescence?

Welcome to the strange garden of the middle school brain.

In this week’s episode of Middle School Mary Poppins, Suzanne M. Swain, EdS, LMSW, is joined by Jessica Ragnio, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Director at Mightier, to explore one of the most important mental health concepts parents can teach their children: cognitive distortions—the thinking traps that make anxiety feel real, even when our thoughts aren’t telling us the whole story.

Using a whimsical garden metaphor, Suzanne explains why middle school isn’t just a grade level—it’s a culture. Together, Suzanne and Jessica discuss how anxiety quietly plants “sticky weeds” in our minds, why belonging becomes so important during adolescence, and how parents can help children recognize these unhelpful thought patterns before they take over the entire garden.

🌸 In This Episode You’ll Learn

🌷 What cognitive distortions are—and why they feel so believable.

🌼 Why anxiety often shows up as stomach aches, headaches, perfectionism, school avoidance, or irritability.

🌺 How girls and boys may experience anxiety differently during adolescence.

🌻 Why friendships, cliques, and social belonging feel so overwhelming in middle school.

🪻 How thoughts, emotions, and behaviors work together to shape our experiences.

🌹 Practical ways to help children challenge anxious thinking with curiosity instead of fear.

🌿 Why Stop. Regulate. Listen. is a brain-based strategy that helps kids regulate emotions before solving problems.

🌱 Free Family Activity

Continue today’s conversation with the Garden of Weedy Thoughts family activity from Mightier:

https://www.mightier.com/resources/weeds-badge-activities/

💜 Special Offer from Mightier

NOTE: Suzanne is NOT being paid by them. She simply loves what they do for  for and the research behind it. An evidence- based way to help your child build emotional regulation skills? They created a video game tablet where the game uses heart rate information to include that in the gameplay where regulation is taught by the video game itself! Self-sufficiency is good! My neighbor kiddo used it and his mother is thrilled! Affordable too! The best part about the company are the people!

Middle School Mary Poppins listeners receive 15% OFF Mightier with promo code:MARYPOPPINS

🎥 Watch on YouTube

Watch full podcast episodes, parenting shorts, bonus clips, and exclusive content on our YouTube channel:

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLE_8pZC17nLY&si=kiKjRO_sx9Uu-3l8

If you enjoy the show, I’d love for you to subscribe to our YouTube channel and turn on notifications so you never miss a new episode, short, or parenting tip. Every subscription helps us reach more families looking for practical, brain-based strategies for navigating the middle school years.

⭐ Thank You

A heartfelt thank you to our incredible community for your encouragement, thoughtful messages, and recent reviews. Because of your support, Middle School Mary Poppins is now approaching 675,000 downloads worldwide and has earned more than 6,100 five-star reviews on Spotify!

Every download, review, subscription, and recommendation helps another parent, educator, counselor, or caregiver discover tools that can truly make a difference in a child’s life.

If today’s episode encouraged you, one of the greatest ways you can support the podcast is by:

💜 Following the show on your favorite podcast platform.

⭐ Leaving a rating or written review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

🎥 Subscribing to our YouTube channel and sharing your favorite episodes.

📣 Sharing this episode with another parent, teacher, or caregiver who could use a little extra support.

Your kindness helps this community continue to grow, and I truly appreciate every single one of you.

Stay clever, little foxes. 🦊💜

SEO Topics

Middle school anxiety • Cognitive distortions • Parenting tweens • Tween mental health • Emotional regulation • School anxiety • Adolescent brain • Friendship drama • Self-esteem • Parenting middle schoolers • Social Emotional Learning (SEL) • Executive functioning • Neurodivergent children • Autism • ADHD • Anxiety in girls • Anxiety in boys • Parenting podcast • Teacher resources • Family mental health • Brain-based parenting • Cognitive behavioral strategies • Middle school behavior

Send Suzanne a Question or Comment:

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Why does your middle schooler seem happy, anxious, excited, embarrassed, frustrated, and overwhelmed—all before dinner?

In Week 3 of our whole family Socioemotional Learning (SEL) Summer Camp series, Suzanne M. Swain, EdS, LMSW, is joined by Jessica Ragnio, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Director at Mightier, to explore the fascinating world of adolescent emotions. Always a good hang with Jessica! 

Together, the duo discuss why emotions become more intense during the middle school years, how identity development, independence, social awareness, and puberty shape emotional experiences, and what neuroscience can teach us about the adolescent brain.

In this episode, you’ll discover:
🌊 Why middle school emotions can feel like an emotional hurricane

🧠 How the adolescent brain develops differently than the adult brain

💜 Why kids often experience multiple emotions at the same time

⚡ How emotional energy and emotional valence help us better understand feelings

🌡️ Why emotions show up in the body before children always have words for them

🎣 How families can build emotional awareness through conversation and play

You’ll also learn why social rejection can genuinely hurt, what cortisol has to do with emotional regulation, and how helping kids recognize body signals can strengthen lifelong emotional intelligence.

🎣 FREE FAMILY ACTIVITY: FISHING FOR FEELINGS

Download this week’s activity here:

https://www.mightier.com/resources/emotional-awareness-activities/

Fishing for Feelings helps families build emotional vocabulary, identify body signals, and create meaningful conversations about emotions in a fun and engaging way.

SPECIAL OFFER: Our friends at Mightier help children build emotional regulation skills through gameplay and biofeedback.

Use coupon code: MARYPOPPINS for 15% off.

Guest:
Jessica Ragnio, MSW, LICSW
Clinical Director, Mightier

Remember:

We don’t stop the waves. We learn how to ride them.

Stop. Regulate. Listen.

Stay clever, little foxes. 💜🦊

A very special thanks to StellaMix productions and Janine Stella for her incredible production work. Please go to stellamix.com for all of your podcasting needs.

SEO Topics

Middle school anxiety • Cognitive distortions • Parenting tweens • Tween mental health • Emotional regulation • School anxiety • Adolescent brain • Friendship drama • Self-esteem • Parenting middle schoolers • Social Emotional Learning (SEL) • Executive functioning • Neurodivergent children • Autism • ADHD • Anxiety in girls • Anxiety in boys • Parenting podcast • Teacher resources • Family mental health • Brain-based parenting • Cognitive behavioral strategies • Middle school behavior

Send Suzanne a Question or Comment:

Support the show

💜☂️ Are Screens Evil or Not? Chocolate Cake, Dopamine & the Middle School Brain | SEL Summer Camp Week 2

Why do kids seem glued to their phones? Why do texts, group chats, likes, and social media feel so important during middle school? And are screens really harming kids—or is the answer more complicated than that?

In Week 2 of our SEL Summer Camp collaboration with Mightier, Suzanne Swain, EdS, LMSW sits down with developmental scientist Jason Kahn, PhD, co-founder of Mightier, to explore what brain science actually tells us about technology, screen time, dopamine, emotional regulation, social media, friendships, and adolescent development.

Together, we discuss:
 🧠 The middle school brain and dopamine
 📱 Why social media feels so powerful
 🍰 The “Chocolate Cake Theory” of technology
 💬 Why kids see phones differently than adults
 ❤️ The importance of belonging during adolescence
 🎮 Healthy technology habits and screen balance
 🌱 Boredom, creativity, and imagination
 🏕️ Family conversations that reduce conflict and build connection

This episode helps parents, educators, counselors, and caregivers better understand how technology interacts with the developing adolescent brain—and how to guide middle schoolers toward healthier digital habits without shame, fear, or constant power struggles.

Special SEL Summer Camp Partner: Mightier
Mightier uses biofeedback-powered video games to help kids build emotional regulation skills in real time. Middle School Mary Poppins listeners receive 15% off with code MARYPOPPINS at Mightier.com.

📥 Download this week’s Summer Camp activity guide:
 msmarypoppins.com

📧 Questions or stories?
 [email protected]

SEO Topics

Middle school anxiety • Cognitive distortions • Parenting tweens • Tween mental health • Emotional regulation • School anxiety • Adolescent brain • Friendship drama • Self-esteem • Parenting middle schoolers • Social Emotional Learning (SEL) • Executive functioning • Neurodivergent children • Autism • ADHD • Anxiety in girls • Anxiety in boys • Parenting podcast • Teacher resources • Family mental health • Brain-based parenting • Cognitive behavioral strategies • Middle school behavior

Send Suzanne a Question or Comment:

Support the show

☀️ SEL Summer Camp is Here!

Pack your curiosity, grab your emotional toolkit, and join us for a one-of-a-kind summer adventure!

Middle School Mary Poppins is teaming up with Mightier for a special six-week SEL (Social Emotional Learning) Summer Camp designed specifically for middle school families.

Together, we’ll explore the fascinating world of emotions, friendships, technology, anxiety, anger, communication, and the developing adolescent brain through engaging conversations, family activities, brain science, and practical tools you can use right away.

Joining Suzanne throughout the series is Jason Kahn, PhD, Chief Science Officer at Mightier, who brings years of expertise in developmental psychology, emotional regulation, and helping kids build resilience through play.

Each week we’ll tackle a new topic:

🧠 Week 1: S2 EP 28 - SEL Summer Camp Week 1 - Adolescent Brains: A Powerful Engine, Sensitive Alarm, & Driver Still in Training
Understanding the middle school brain and why adolescents think, feel, and react differently than adults.

📚Camp Week 1 Download:
https://www.mightier.com/resources/5-steps-to-unstick-your-thinking-for-parents/

💜This article contains a list of strategies for parents & families that prompt them to stop and reflect in the moment of disagreement or miscommunication with their child. The strategies help families separate out their own emotions and perspective in order to better see their child's perspective. 

Future Camp Sessions & Topics:

📱 Week 2: Are Screens Evil or Not?
Technology, dopamine, gaming, and finding healthy family balance.

🌊 Week 3: Oceans of Emotion
Exploring feelings, emotional awareness, and the surprising ways emotions work together.

🌱 Week 4: Garden of Weedy Thoughts
Understanding anxiety, self-esteem, and those pesky cognitive distortions that can take over our thinking.

🌋 Week 5: Volcano of Anger
Learning what lives underneath anger and how to regulate big emotions before they erupt.

🤝 Week 6: Social Skills Lab
Building friendships, communication skills, empathy, and confidence through connection.

Throughout the summer, families will receive conversation starters, activities, reflection questions, and practical strategies that make Social Emotional Learning fun, meaningful, and accessible.

Why MSMP is Partnering with Mightier

At Middle School Mary Poppins, we believe emotional regulation isn’t something kids magically know how to do.

It’s a skill.

And skills require practice.

That’s why we’re excited to partner with Mightier, a program that helps children build emotional regulation skills through biofeedback-powered games that teach kids how to recognize what’s happening inside their bodies and practice calming strategies in real time.

💜 Special Offer for Middle School Mary Poppins Families

Receive 15% OFF Mightier with code: MARYPOPPINS

Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, teacher, counselor, therapist, or simply someone who loves a middle schooler, this series is for you.

So grab your camp gear, bring your curiosity, and join us as we spend six weeks exploring the most important classroom your child will ever have:

Their brain.

See you at camp!

☂️ Suzanne Swain, EdS, LMSW
 Middle School Mary Poppins

🦊 Stay clever, little foxes

🏆Shoutout to StellaMix Studios for making this possible! 🤗🔥💜

SEO Topics

Middle school anxiety • Cognitive distortions • Parenting tweens • Tween mental health • Emotional regulation • School anxiety • Adolescent brain • Friendship drama • Self-esteem • Parenting middle schoolers • Social Emotional Learning (SEL) • Executive functioning • Neurodivergent children • Autism • ADHD • Anxiety in girls • Anxiety in boys • Parenting podcast • Teacher resources • Family mental health • Brain-based parenting • Cognitive behavioral strategies • Middle school behavior

Send Suzanne a Question or Comment:

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Middle school can feel like a daily showdown… until you realize the kid isn’t always the problem. Sometimes the kid is the signal.

In this episode of The Middle School Mary Poppins Podcast, Suzanne Swain, EDS LMSW explores the moments that make adults throw their hands in the air and ask, “Seriously?!” — and why that reaction is understandable, but often aimed at the wrong target. When behavior goes sideways, we tend to place the full weight of the situation on a 12- or 13-year-old navigating hormones, identity development, social pressure, emotional overwhelm, and a brain that is still developing impulse control and executive functioning. That isn’t an excuse for harmful behavior… it’s a roadmap for understanding it.

Drawing from years of real middle school classroom management experience, Suzanne walks listeners through a systems-based approach to behavior that focuses on emotional safety, clear expectations, simple procedures, and consistent boundaries. You’ll hear why consistency matters more than intensity, why fewer rules often work better than dozens of threats, and how becoming “annoyingly predictable” can actually help kids feel safer and more regulated. The episode also explores metacognition — the adult skill of noticing what’s happening internally before reacting externally — and how our own regulation often shapes the emotional climate around children.

But structure alone is never enough. Kids also need connection. This episode unpacks the idea of “connection before correction” and why trust, co-regulation, and emotional repair are critical parts of accountability. Suzanne also discusses some of the hidden stressors affecting today’s tweens and teens, including chronic sleep deprivation, overstimulation, emotional exhaustion, and constant screen saturation.

Blending neuroscience, humor, emotional critical thinking, and real classroom insight, this conversation offers a more compassionate lens for understanding middle schoolers without removing accountability or structure.

💜 ND Friendly Listening Note: MSMP is designed with neurodivergent listeners in mind. Ads and interruptions are intentionally kept to a minimum and placed thoughtfully for continuity and emotional regulation support.

☂️ ENTER THE NEW CONTEST: head to the website and join the mailing list for a chance to win a 45 minute family session with Suzanne! 

💜☂️Visit msmarypoppins.com for resources, updates, and ways to support the show.

Produced by StellaMix Podcast Productions. Reach out to my high school buddy Janine for all of your podcast needs as she is the wizard you need!
 🌐 stellamix.com

🦊Stay clever, little foxes. You got this! 

Send Suzanne a Question or Comment:

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Internet Culture & Emotional Health: The Safety Dance

feat. Adam Brooks, Program Coordinator from BARK Technologies [email protected]

Special MSMP listener offer:
Use code POPPINS25 for $25 off any Bark phone model or watch (limit 2).  Learn more at: www.bark.us

Part 3 of our “Reimagining Screen Time” technology series focuses on one of the biggest modern parenting challenges of all: keeping kids safe online while still building trust, communication, and healthy independence.

Balancing screens with quality family time, creating intentional technology plans, and opening ongoing family discussions about devices and boundaries has become just as essential as having a family fire safety plan.

As an educational technologist and former middle school educator, Suzanne recently took a deep dive into researching modern family technology tools and discovered BARK Technologies. 

BARK has: more than 7 million users, strong professional reviews, extensive educational resources, and a kid & family-forward philosophy towatd devices and screen time.

BARK stood out as an innovative and highly acclained option for helping families navigate the digital world more safely together. 

What especially impressed Suzanne was Bark’s willingness to provide schools and educators with professional development and technology safety resources—even when schools are not purchasing products or services. That commitment to education, accessibility, and family discussion deserved a closer look.

So Suzanne invited Adam Brooks, Bark’s Program Coordinator and a former teacher himself, onto the podcast to discuss current research, internet culture, emotional health, and practical ways families can create healthier digital habits together.

Let’s face facts: middle schoolers are growing up in a digital environment that moves faster than most adults can realistically keep up with. Between social media pressure, group chats, cyberbullying, AI-generated content, online predators, and nonstop notifications, families are navigating challenges that simply did not exist a generation ago.

In this episode, Suzanne and Adam discuss:

Why middle school brains are especially vulnerable onlineThe emotional impact of social media and comparison cultureCyberbullying, online predators, and digital safetyHealthy monitoring vs. invasive parentingHow to build trust instead of constant power strugglesPractical tools families can begin using immediatelyCreating collaborative family technology plans that encourage communication and emotional safety

Bark Technologies offers monitoring tools, parental controls, screen time management, content filtering, and affordable kid-safe phones and watches designed to help families navigate technology in a healthier and more balanced way.

As always, Suzanne takes ethics very seriously. BARK Technologies did not pay for this review, testimonial, or discussion. This episode reflects Suzanne’s independent professional opinion after personally researching family technology options that are affordable, highly regarded, innovative, and capable of encouraging stronger communication and healthier family relationships around technology use.

🎉 Special MSMP listener offer:
Use code POPPINS25 for $25 off any Bark phone model or watch (limit 2).
Learn more at: www.bark.us
Questions about Bark’s services or educational partnerships can also be directed to Adam Brooks at [email protected]. He is excited to hear from you! Come back anytime! 

Send Suzanne a Question or Comment:

Support the show

Plain Talk: Dogs, Cats, & the Neurodivergent Brain (Unscripted & Unedited) 🐶💕🐱🥹

This episode is a different one, y’all!
No outline.
No “cheat sheet.”
No editing out the pauses or the “you knows.” 🤓🤫

Just a real “plain” conversation. I thought it would be fun to see what happens without my safe bullet points. 

💜 Give me about two minutes on this one—it settles in and gets really good. Besides, it’s all about FURRY FAMILY! 🤩 Animals are everything. Stepping out of your comfort zone can be a great experience. 

Middle school is a time when life feels unpredictable—friendships shift, social rules change by the hour, and for neurodivergent kids, sensory overload can turn an ordinary day into a storm.

So why do animals help so much?

In this off-the-cuff episode, we talk about dogs and cats not as “pets,” but as teammates—partners that help regulate a child’s nervous system in real, measurable ways.

We break down the neuroscience in plain language:
Petting an animal can lower cortisol, raise oxytocin, and help the brain feel safer. The limbic system begins to settle. The world feels different.

Then we get into what almost sounds unbelievable about dogs—their ability to detect emotional states through scent, track routines by “smelling time,” respond to subtle pressure changes, and hear what the rest of us miss.

If you’ve ever felt like your dog knew you were having a bad day before you did… you’re not imagining it.

And yes—we give cats their due.

Cats aren’t “less social.” They’re selectively social—wired for predictable, low-pressure connection. From the slow blink to their carefully chosen moments of closeness, we explore why cats can be exactly what an anxious brain needs.

You’ll also hear stories about Neville, a little “street council” energy, and the very real truth about loving animals—even knowing loss is part of the deal.

💬 Tell me: which animal has helped you (or your child) feel safe?

—

New here? Start with “Ridiculous Joy” to get a feel for the heart of the show.

Want to reach out?
Suzanne M. Swain, EdS, LMSW
📧 [email protected]
🌐 msmarypoppins.com

Produced by StellaMix Podcast Productions: https://stellamix.com/

Support the show:
If this episode helped your family or classroom, visit msmarypoppins.com and click Support the Show.

Your support keeps this podcast free, research-based, and centered on emotional health for kids—especially neurodivergent tweens and teens. 

Send Suzanne a Question or Comment:

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Screen time is not going anywhere, so instead of arguing about whether it is “good” or “bad,” let’s get specific about what it doing positively for our kids. My EDS is in Education Technology, bring it! 

This is episode two in our exploring screen time series, where we discuss how digital tools can be used in more intentional, supportive ways for kids and families. I found Mightier!  I think Mightier is doing something truly innovative, affordable, & educationally way ahead of the pack. So, I vetted it. Again and again. Nights of secretly evaluating on ridiculously high-level criteria. Had kids try it. 
And the Result? Legit👏🫶🏼

I sought THEM out. No paid testimonial. Just a shrewd educator seeking a diamond. Really thrilled to bring this solution to listeners.  There are kids out there that would be so benefited by what they do with biometrics. Brilliant.

WEBSITE: www.mightier.com
 COUPON CODE: MARYPOPPINS (15% OFF)

In this episode, I share a surprising tool I vetted myself: a set of video games that use heart-rate biofeedback to help kids practice emotional regulation while they play. If your child melts down quickly, struggles with anxiety, or gets stuck in frustration, this conversation offers a concrete way to think about intentional screen time and digital wellness at home. Please note: I am not being paid in any capacity for this interview. I simply am absolutely mesmerized by this software. Share the knowledge!

A VISIT FROM JESSICA RAGNIO FROM MIGHTIER:

Suzanne is joined by her first-ever guest, Jessica Ragnio, a clinical social worker, therapist, and mom of three who serves as Clinical Director at Mightier. She breaks down how the program grew out of research at Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, and why real-time practice matters more than simply talking about coping skills when a child is already flooded.

We dig into how the games respond to rising heart rate, what “red zone” and “blue zone” cues look like, and how kids are rewarded for bringing their bodies back down to calm.

We also cover what families tend to notice over time, including stronger emotional awareness, better frustration tolerance, and calmer recovery in school and friendships. For parents who want visibility, we talk through the companion app and the progress data it tracks, including cooldowns.

If you want to explore it yourself, head to www.mightier.com and use the code MARYPOPPINS for 15% off.

If this episode helps you rethink screen time, subscribe, share it with a parent friend, and leave a review so more families can find practical mental health tools.

Contact Suzanne M. Swain EdS LMSW: 

[email protected] 

Website: msmarypoppins.com

Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Productions

Special thanks to our producer, StellaMix podcast productions, another Palm Beach County School of the Arts collaboration. Need a podcast? Connect with Janine Stella ASAP: http://www.Stellamix.com

Send Suzanne a Question or Comment:

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Screens: the ultimate villain… or your kid’s emotional support sidekick? In this playful (and eye-opening) episode, Suzanne dives into the nightly showdown every parent knows too well—the “put the phone down” battle—and flips the script in a way you probably didn’t see coming.

What looks like defiance might actually be overwhelm. What feels like obsession might be regulation. From dopamine hits and digital comparison to cyberbullying and late-night scrolling, we unpack what’s really going on behind the screen—and why simply taking the phone away might be missing the bigger picture.

With relatable stories, a dash of humor (shoutout to Lieutenant Steve 🐾), and practical strategies you can actually use, this episode helps parents, educators, and caregivers move from power struggles to real connection. Because the goal isn’t to win the screen time war—it’s to understand the kid on the other side of it.

Tune in for a fresh perspective, a few “aha” moments, and maybe even a little peace at bedtime. 

————-

PRO BONO: Currently, MSMP does not profitize nor monetize as an effort to avoid bias & to help build trust with new listeners. (Too many commercials ruin messaging.) 

Trust is everything & worth earning first. MSMP will only support rigorously vetted advertisers that commit to bettering the lives & mental health of kids and their families - no fluff. Your time is valuable. ——————————-

Contact Suzanne M. Swain EdS LMSW: 

[email protected] 

Website: msmarypoppins.com

Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Productions

Special thanks to our producer, StellaMix podcast productions, another Palm Beach County School of the Arts collaboration. Need a podcast? Connect with Janine Stella ASAP: http://www.Stellamix.com

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You can be smart, creative, and deeply caring and still walk through life feeling like you’re getting “thrown to the curb.” That ache hits a lot of neurodivergent adults, especially when old childhood labels keep playing on loop: too sensitive, too emotional, too intense, too distracted, so much potential if you could just… I’m busting those cognitive distortions and telling a truer story about neurodiversity, ADHD, autism, giftedness, and what it’s like when your brain takes in more than the room expects. 

We start with a memory from childhood that’s equal parts funny and revealing: walking up to neighbors’ houses and asking if they had kids who wanted to be friends. Through that lens, we talk about why connection can become a core driver for neurodivergent people and why shame is often just misunderstood wiring. Then we get into brain science that matters, especially for parents and educators: the middle school brain renovation where the limbic system runs hot and the prefrontal cortex is still under construction. Add sensory sensitivity and emotional intensity, and the world can feel loud, fast, and harsh, even when you’re doing your best. 

From there we connect the dots to adulthood: executive functioning challenges, workplace expectations, the “inconsistent but brilliant” stereotype, and why “failure to launch” is often about planning, time management, stress regulation, and systems that weren’t built for neurodivergent minds. We also talk hyper empathy, reading body language, and the loneliness of being highly attuned. Most importantly, we practice reframes that are fair, specific, and actually usable and we translate that into how we can support neurodivergent kids without trying to fix them, by getting curious about their thinking steps and honoring their process. 

If this resonates, subscribe, share with someone raising or living as neurodivergent, and leave a review so more people can find language that replaces shame with clarity. What’s one label you’re ready to rewrite?

Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: [email protected] Website: msmarypoppins.com

Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Productions

Special thanks to our producer, StellaMix podcast productions, another Palm Beach County School of the Arts collaboration. Need a podcast? Connect with Janine Stella ASAP: http://www.Stellamix.com

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What I thought was a routine appointment turned into an 11-hour stretch in the ER—and then the words no one is ever ready to hear: stage four metastatic cervical cancer. I’m sharing this with a shaky voice but a steady purpose, because my best friend Tanya is fighting for her life, and right now, I’m one of her primary caregivers.

This has made me really think about what chosen family actually means when the crisis isn’t abstract. Tanya is my person—the friend who crossed countries, built a life from nothing, cared deeply for others, loved animals like family, and showed up for me through surgeries, pain, and all the messy parts of being human. Now she’s facing cancer that has spread to her bones, lungs, liver, and lymph nodes, and I’m trying to navigate pain management, treatment decisions, and the emotional whiplash that comes when someone you love can’t even sit up in a chair.

And I have to say the part people don’t always want to talk about: the cost. The reality of U.S. healthcare. Insurance questions, growing medical bills, and the impossible math of losing income while caregiving becomes a full-time job. If you’ve ever carried caregiver stress, unresolved grief, or that deep wound of losing someone too early, you’ll understand—this is raw, unfiltered, and straight from the heart.

If you can, please listen. Share this with someone who believes in showing up for others. Help Tanya in her fight by donating or spreading the word. Subscribe, leave a review, and tell me—what does showing up for your person look like in your life?

Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: [email protected] Website: msmarypoppins.com

Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Productions

Special thanks to our producer, StellaMix podcast productions, another Palm Beach County School of the Arts collaboration. Need a podcast? Connect with Janine Stella ASAP: http://www.Stellamix.com

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What if the behaviors we rush to fix are actually signals from a beautifully organized, differently wired brain? In this episode, we explore new neuroscience showing why attention differences, sensory intensity, and big emotions often appear together—and why that combination makes biological sense. Recent research suggests that thousands of small genetic variations shape overlapping pathways linked to ADHD, autism, and mood regulation, pointing to a more connected “systems view” of the brain.

We also look at how brain networks—like the default mode network and executive control system—affect imagination, focus, and the ability to shift between tasks. That’s why things like the “rabbit hole effect,” zoning out, or struggling to transition between activities happen so often for neurodivergent kids.

Instead of blame, we focus on understanding and practical strategies—visual timers, movement breaks, previews of what’s next, and sensory tools that help kids transition from inner focus to outward tasks. The takeaway: neurodivergent brains aren’t broken—they’re wired with unique strengths and challenges. When we reduce the friction, those strengths have room to shine.

Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: [email protected] Website: msmarypoppins.com

Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Productions

Special thanks to our producer, StellaMix podcast productions, another Palm Beach County School of the Arts collaboration. Need a podcast? Connect with Janine Stella ASAP: http://www.Stellamix.com

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Anger feels fast. Powerful. Loud. But what’s really underneath it?

In this special, kid-requested episode, Suzanne M. Swain, EDS, LMSW — child therapist, educational specialist, and veteran middle school teacher — talks directly to tweens and teens about anger in a world that feels a little… charged.

Why does anger rise so quickly? What’s actually happening in your brain when you react? And how can choosing calm make you stronger — not weaker?

Suzanne breaks down:

Why anger is often a “cover emotion” hiding fear, embarrassment, hurt, or feeling out of controlWhy you are not responsible for adult stressHow to stop reactivity before it takes overWhat it means to regulate instead of reactSimple, science-backed tools to reset your nervous system (hello, Lemonheads and the 90-second rule)

This episode is especially supportive for neurodivergent kids and sensitive hearts who feel overwhelmed by loud energy. Suzanne reminds listeners that peace isn’t flashy — it’s steady. And steady is powerful.

You don’t have to match someone else’s storm.
 You can be the anchor.

Perfect for middle schoolers, teens, and the grown-ups who love them.

Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: [email protected] Website: msmarypoppins.com

Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Productions

Special thanks to our producer, StellaMix podcast productions, another Palm Beach County School of the Art collaboration. Need a podcast? Stellamix.com

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Heroes aren’t always loud—and they don’t always wear capes.In this episode of Middle School Mary Poppins, Suzanne M. Swain explores what heroism really looks like in the real world: persistence, joy, empathy, and showing up as yourself—even when it’s hard.Inspired by the Winter Olympics, beloved pop-culture heroes, a surprising animal rescue, and the power of team culture, Suzanne reframes heroism for kids, parents, and educators—especially those supporting neurodivergent learners.This episode is a love letter to:quiet braverykids who feel differentteams that thrive on joy and belongingand the truth that you fall down nine times, but you get up tenYou’ll hear why joy is your greatest advantage to performance, why nothing is harder to stop than a team having a blast, and how everyday acts of courage can change classrooms, families, and lives.Whether you’re a parent, teacher, therapist, or a kid who’s still figuring it out—this one’s for you. Free, accessible, and made with care—always. Stay clever, little foxes. 🦊🤓🥰

Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: [email protected] Website: msmarypoppins.com

Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Productions

Special thanks to our producer, StellaMix podcast productions, another Palm Beach County School of the Art collaboration. Need a podcast? Stellamix.com

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Bullying in middle school isn’t always loud or obvious—and that’s what makes it so confusing and harmful. In this episode of Middle School Mary Poppins, child therapist and educational specialist Suzanne M. Swain, EDS, LMSW explores the subtle, strategic, and emotionally manipulative forms of bullying that often get overlooked by adults but deeply affect kids’ confidence and sense of safety.

You’ll learn how power, group dynamics, humor, and digital spaces fuel bullying, why neurodivergent kids are often targeted, and how calm, smart responses can disrupt the cycle without escalating conflict. This episode offers practical, compassionate tools for kids, families, and educators who want to recognize bullying, support kids effectively, and help them feel safe and understood.

Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: [email protected]

Website: msmarypoppins.com

Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Productions

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Ever wonder why your child completely melts down the second they walk through the door after school? In this episode, veteran middle school teacher and child therapist Suzanne M. Swain, EdS LMSW breaks down what’s really going on in neurodivergent brains—and why it’s not defiance, manipulation, or “bad behavior.” It’s exhaustion.

Suzanne connects the dots between ADHD, autism, sensory overload, food struggles, anxiety, and emotional regulation, all while explaining why routines feel calming (not rigid), why the safest parent often gets the biggest emotional release, and how the senses—especially smell and taste—play a powerful role in comfort and memory. With relatable stories, brain science you don’t need a degree to understand, and plenty of “ohhh… that makes sense” moments, this episode helps parents reframe meltdowns, reduce stress, and build more calm, predictable days at home.

If you’re parenting a neurodivergent child—or suspect you might be neurodivergent yourself—this one’s for you.

Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: [email protected]

Website: msmarypoppins.com

Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Productions

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In Part II of the Food for Mood series, Suzanne explores how the Inside Out socially-based emotions like anxiety, embarrassment, envy, boredom, & ultimately motivation quietly influence behavior, mood, and emotional regulation.  Kids, teens, and neurodivergent individuals all can benefit from knowing triggers in the body and ways to re-regulate through nutrition. 

Building on the foundation from Part One, this episode blends accessible brain science, school-based therapy experience, and practical, real-life strategies to explain how food, flavor, texture, and even scent can support emotional balance. Suzanne breaks down why anxiety and excitement share the same brain chemistry, how comfort foods and crunchy textures can calm or energize the nervous system, why boredom is often a signal for creativity rather than laziness, and how proper nourishment—not caffeine—fuels motivation. This educational episode focuses on nourishment over restriction, offering compassionate insight for parents, educators, and caregivers looking to better understand the connection between emotions, food, and behavior. For additional family and educational resources, visit msmaryoppins.com. 

Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: [email protected]

Website: msmarypoppins.com

Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Productions

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It’s a new year, so let’s talk about food and feelings—because they’re way more connected than we realize. In this episode, we break down how what you eat can either calm you down or completely throw you off, without diet rules or restriction.

This episode dives into the four core emotions—joy, sadness, anger, and fear—and how each one shows up in your body. From why joy just wants to be savored, to why sadness loves soup, why anger needs cooling foods, and why fear sometimes just needs you to eat something, we keep it real and practical.

This is an honest, compassionate conversation about emotional eating, stress, and learning how to support your nervous system instead of fighting it.

If you’ve ever eaten your feelings, felt overwhelmed, or wondered why certain foods make you feel better (or worse), this episode is for you. Grab a snack, get comfy, and let’s start the year a little more regulated—together.

Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: [email protected]

Website: msmarypoppins.com

Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Productions

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Happy holidays from Middle School Mary Poppins! In this heart-centered episode, Suzanne M. Swain, EdS, LMSW—your friendly neighborhood kid therapist—dives into a powerful holiday homophone: presents vs. presence. One is wrapped. The other is felt.

Suzanne explores why time, attention, and shared experiences often mean more to kids than expensive gifts—and how families can use the holiday season to build gratitude, empathy, and real connection. From low-cost, high-impact traditions (like handmade gifts, wishing stars, love-heart ornaments, and family service projects) to practical ways kids can give back, learn life skills, and feel genuinely valued, this episode is packed with meaningful ideas you can actually use.

You’ll also hear personal updates, including a shout-out from Lieutenant Steve and Suzanne’s very real (and very cool) journey into cyborg territory with a robot-assisted, 3D-printed knee replacement—happening the day this episode drops.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by holiday pressure, this episode is your reminder that kids want presence over presents—and that the simplest moments often become the most lasting memories.

Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: Suzanne Swain
Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production

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Sharing a little bit of holiday cheer with you by creating a poem about life in middle school during the holiday season. Hope you enjoy it and happy holidays andMerry Christmas to you all.

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Middle school can feel weird, overwhelming, awkward, emotional, and completely ridiculous sometimes… so maybe the answer is learning how to hold onto a little “Ridiculous Joy” to help us cope with the difficulty.

In this episode of The Middle School Mary Poppins Podcast, Suzanne M. Swain, EdS, LMSW introduces the heart behind the show and the mission driving these conversations: helping kids, families, and educators better understand each other through neuroscience, emotional critical thinking, humor, and honest dialogue about what it actually feels like to grow up in today’s world.

“Ridiculous Joy” is Suzanne’s favorite phrase, and will be the title of her upcoming parenting book. It is through finding silliness and ridiculous joy in life that we are able to build up these experiences to remind us that life is full of wonder and excitement if we’re just strong enough to get through the darker days.

Drawing from years of experience as a middle school teacher, school librarian, administrator, professor of Education, and licensed master social worker working directly with students and families, Suzanne explores the complicated emotional world middle schoolers live in every day. Kids today are constantly moving between different environments — school, home, social media, peer groups, extracurricular pressure, and adult expectations — often without the emotional tools to fully process all of it yet.

This episode explores why communication between kids and adults can break down so easily, how cognitive distortions shape the way we interpret situations, and why emotional regulation has become one of the most important life skills we can teach. Suzanne also introduces the idea that joy itself can become an act of resilience — especially for neurodivergent kids, anxious kids, overwhelmed kids, and the adults trying to support them.

Blending humor, brain science, real classroom stories, and heartfelt honesty, Ridiculous Joy: It’s a Beautiful Life sets the tone for the entire MSMP podcast experience: compassionate, practical, slightly chaotic, and deeply hopeful.

💜 ND Friendly Listening Note: MSMP is designed with neurodivergent listeners in mind. Ads and interruptions are intentionally kept to a minimum and placed thoughtfully for continuity and emotional regulation support.

☂️ Visit msmarypoppins.com for resources, updates, and ways to support the show.

Produced by StellaMix Podcast Productions
🌐 stellamix.com

Stay clever, little foxes!🦊

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Hey y’all & happy Thanksgiving, everyone! As we all know, this can be a stressful time of year for some individuals who may be struggling. I wanted to take a moment today to give you a list of some conversation, starters and questions that you could bring up at the dinner table that would help to encourage conversations to get to know the kids and each a lot better.Hope you enjoy the episode and all the best for a blessed Thanksgiving.- Suz

FYI: If you are in need of mental health services, please immediately contact the following contacts below:

#988

SAMHSA Helpine:1800 662 HELP

Findsupport.gov

Show Website:

www.msmarypoppins.com

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In this thoughtful and essential episode of Middle School Mary Poppins, Suzanne M. Swain, EDS, LMSW—Education Master & Specialist as well as working school-based Child Therapist introduces a new concept she believes every family, teacher, and community needs right now: Elementary Empathy-Based Learning (EEBL).

Suzanne dives into why today’s youngest learners—especially those who experienced early childhood during the pandemic—need intentional support in developing empathy, emotional awareness, and social connection. Through relatable stories, pop-culture references like Inside Out, and decades of school counseling experience, she shares how empathy builds safety, strengthens families, and helps kids understand themselves and others.

She explains how EEBL & empathy shows up in body language, storytelling, imagination, and even anxiety—and offers simple ways adults can nurture it through conversations, routines, respect, and everyday social skills. Suzanne also explores how middle schoolers can channel big emotions through creativity and art, turning anxious energy into meaningful self-expression.

This episode is a must-listen for parents, teachers, counselors, and anyone working with kids today. You’ll gain practical tools, deeper insight into child development, and a renewed appreciation for how empathy creates confident, connected, and capable kids.

Tune in to learn how empathy grows, why it matters, and how you can bring more of it into your home, classroom, or community—one intentional moment at a time!

Check out our website for more content & playlists. Steve pics too! Pass Suzanne a note in her locker - would love to hear from you! http://www.msmarypoppins.com

Contact Suzanne M. Swain, EDS LMSW
Email: [email protected]

Facebook: Suzanne Swain
Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production

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 In this episode, child therapist and master teacher Suzanne M. Swain, EDS LMSW, dives into a topic that makes many of us squirm—money management for neurodivergent kids. Whether your child has ADHD, autism, or another form of neurodiversity, Suzanne shares practical ways to help them build a healthy relationship with money, understand value, and learn how effort connects to reward. From creating chore charts and setting short- and long-term financial goals to exploring kid-friendly debit cards, Suzanne walks parents and educators through empowering strategies that teach independence, responsibility, and confidence around money. She also touches on Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, emotional regulation, and why framing money as a tool—not a stressor—can change a child’s mindset for life. 

Tune in to learn how neurodivergent brains view money differently, creative ways to make financial lessons fun and manageable, tools to help kids save, budget, and spend wisely, and how families can talk about money without anxiety. It’s time to make money make sense—for kids and adults alike. Listen now, and don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave us a 5-tar review. Let's help our little foxes thrive.

Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: Suzanne Swain
Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production

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In this heartfelt and necessary episode, Suzanne dives into the topic of masculinity and emotional safety, exploring how adolescent boys communicate, why they struggle to open up, and how we can help them feel seen and supported. With warmth and humor, she shares classroom stories, insights on nonverbal communication, and practical ways to nurture emotional intelligence in young men.

If you’ve ever wondered how to help the boys in your life express themselves and feel safe doing it, this episode offers a compassionate, eye-opening perspective.

Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: Suzanne Swain
Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production

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What do Abraham Lincoln, a dead bird, and the local Fire Department have in common? Believe it or not—Suzanne’s teaching career. 

In this episode, kid therapist and master teacher Suzanne M. Swain spills her epic teaching fails—the kind of stories you can only laugh at in hindsight. From leading a group of 10-year-olds astray in the U.S. Capitol, to accidentally becoming part of the Ford’s Theater tour (yes, involving projectile vomiting in the most historically inappropriate place), to clocking herself out cold during state testing and triggering a full-on firefighter rescue—Suzanne proves teaching is never boring. 

Between shredded-money envy at the U.S. Mint, the quirks of middle schoolers, and teachers who either scolded or cracked up at her disasters, Suzanne shows how the wildest fails can turn into the best stories. 

So buckle up, laugh along, and maybe even feel a little better about your own “oops” moments—because if Suzanne can survive them, so can you. 

Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: Suzanne Swain
Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production

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Welcome back to the chaos and charm of back-to-school season! In this episode, therapist and former middle school teacher Suzanne M. Swain (EDS, LMSW) dives into one of her most requested topics—ADHD. Suzanne flips the script on the usual narrative, showing why ADHD isn’t a deficit but a secret superpower packed with bravery, creativity, and genius.

From hilarious back-to-school night stories to clever tips on organization and coping strategies, she shares how students (and adults) with ADHD can thrive. You’ll also hear about the three types of ADHD she encounters in her practice, her concept of the “flitter” response to anxiety, and why acceptance and compassion therapy can turn challenges into teachable moments.

Oh, and did we mention she met Tupac (well, kind of) and discovered she might actually be part alien? Yeah, this episode’s got it all—insight, humor, and a little extraterrestrial twist.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or clever little fox navigating life with ADHD, this one’s for you. Tune in and get ready to see ADHD through a whole new lens!

Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: Suzanne Swain
Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production

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In this jam-packed, joy-filled episode, Suzanne Swain dives headfirst down the digital rabbit hole to share her lifelong love of tech—and how it’s changing the game for kids and families alike. From her first VGA monitor to today’s AI-powered tools, Suzanne walks listeners through fun, interactive ways to turn screen time into meaningful play and connection. She explores how to use AI to generate personalized coloring pages, DIY Pokémon cards, and even full-on board games. She explains how Trello can help kids (and parents) stay organized with fun, drag-and-drop checklists. Suzanne shares how virtual reality has transformed her therapy sessions, offering virtual vacations, roller coasters, and meditations in space. And don’t miss her tips on using apps like ChatGPT and Claude to write stories, emails, or even bedtime tales—plus why Google Drive is her brain’s second home. She even encourages families to create mood-based Spotify playlists together, build apps with Appy Pie, and make movies using AI. 

Whether you’re a parent hoping to reduce Roblox time, a teacher looking for creative tools, or just a curious fox ready to explore, this episode is a treasure trove of tech tips that promote creativity, emotional wellness, and family connection—all served up with Suzanne’s signature mix of heart and humor. 

Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: [email protected]
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Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production

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At 3:18 AM, Suzanne Swain found herself wide awake, anxious, and overwhelmed. In this heartfelt episode, she shares how a late-night rewatch of Labyrinth became the unexpected comfort she needed.

Blending nostalgia, humor, and reflection, Suzanne explores the film’s timeless message of resilience and imagination—offering listeners a gentle reminder that even on the hardest days, there’s always light ahead. 

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Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production

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 What’s the grandest thing you’ve ever done? Built a treehouse? Made a birthday cake from scratch? Raised a child… twice? In this heartwarming episode, Suzanne Swain (aka your favorite rural kid therapist) dives into the grand world of grandparents—from Rockettes at Radio City to blueberry summers in Alabama. 

With stories that range from Purple Hearts and polio to blueberry bushes and Jeopardy nights, Suzanne shines a light on the unsung heroes raising millions of children today. If you've got a “Glammy,” “TT,” or just good old “Grandma,” this episode’s for you. So grab a donut (sprinkles optional), give your grand a hug, and let’s celebrate the magic, moxie, and memories that only grandparents can bring. 

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Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production

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Welcome back, clever little foxes! Season 2 of The Middle School Mary Poppins Podcast is officially here, and Suzanne M. Swain—your go-to guide for all things educational, emotional, and real—is kicking things off with a deep dive into test anxiety. This episode is packed with practical tips, thoughtful encouragement, and just the right amount of sass to help students (and their grown-ups) face testing season with confidence.

Suzanne reflects on a whirlwind school year filled with everything from pre-K energy to fourth-grade insights, sharing what she's learned from her students and how we can all rethink the way we support mental health in schools. She introduces her shaggy sidekick, Lieutenant Steve, and previews the bite-sized, real-life topics coming this season—from neurodivergence to emotional intelligence to COVID kids.

Whether you're a parent, a teacher, or just someone who wants to understand how to better support the kiddos in your life, this season is all about doing the work together. So let’s boom, bounce, and breathe our way into a season full of learning, growing, and maybe even a little magic.

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Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production

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Normieville Middle School’s eighth graders have taken entrepreneurship to a whole new level—by launching a booming Blow Pop business that’s causing a stir. Suzanne Swain steps in to unravel the sticky situation, using her background in behavioral psychology and leadership to guide these young hustlers toward a smarter, more ethical approach. With the help of Dr. Daria Morgan and Nanny the beloved school mascot, Suzanne taps into wolf pack dynamics to teach teamwork, responsibility, and the power of thinking ahead.

In this engaging and unexpected journey, listeners will explore the fine line between leadership and chaos, ambition and accountability. Can these students turn their classroom scheme into a legitimate venture? And what happens when a group of rowdy 8th graders starts thinking like future CEOs? Tune in for a hilarious, insightful, and eye-opening take on middle school entrepreneurship and emotional intelligence.

Website: www.msmarypoppins.com

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Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production

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Ever thought about how traffic jams and middle school classrooms have more in common than you’d expect? In this episode, we dive deep into the power of perception—how it shapes our experiences, learning, emotions, and even society’s view of teachers. From navigating California freeways to the emotional chaos of adolescence, we explore why mental health and education must go hand in hand and why teachers are the unsung heroes battling burnout, low pay, and unrealistic expectations every day.

Through personal stories, humor, and thought-provoking insights, we’ll unpack why teachers are often seen as both superheroes and scapegoats and how shifting our perception can change the way we value education. Plus, we’ll discuss why teachers deserve the Dumbledore treatment rather than being forgotten like Bing Bong. Tune in and discover what’s really happening behind the classroom doors—this is a conversation that will challenge what you thought you knew.

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Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production

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In this heartfelt and thought-provoking episode, we explore the essence of spirituality—not through religion, but through the stories, characters, and moments that shape our understanding of kindness, bravery, and purpose. From the gentle wisdom of Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood to the powerful symbolism of The Lion King and Watership Down, we reflect on how childhood influences stay with us, guiding us toward living an honest and meaningful life.

Along the way, we dive into personal stories of loss, growth, and the unexpected teachers—whether human, animal, or animated—that have shaped a lifelong quest for understanding. With humor, nostalgia, and a deep appreciation for the small moments that make life meaningful, this episode invites you to step into the neighborhood of reflection and connection.

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Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production

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This year, we’re taking education to a whole new level—one playful idea at a time! From Lin-Manuel Miranda’s rap seminar bringing history to life, to eighth graders designing a better recess experience, this district meeting is packed with fresh ideas and fun initiatives. Dive into how Dungeons & Dragons campaigns are helping students build life skills, and how pop culture gems like Stranger Things are being used to connect learning styles with real-world applications.

We’re also celebrating community heroes and businesses that keep our district thriving, unveiling exciting plans for Imagineering Labs, and sharing quirky awards for staff who make magic happen every day. Whether it’s about sparking creativity, supporting mental health, or creating memorable learning experiences, this meeting proves that when schools and communities play nice, everyone wins. Let’s roll the dice and see what’s next!

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Step into the extraordinary world of Dr. James Akenson, the educator who redefines what it means to teach. Known as the "Mr. Rogers of Teacher Education," Dr. Akenson blends visual thinking, storytelling, and thematic teaching (like country music!) to create immersive learning experiences that inspire students and teachers alike. Suzanne, deeply inspired by a former professor, took learning to a new graphically organized level, embodying his innovative approach in her own journey as an educator.

From dismantling time-bound learning to championing the power of doodles and graphic organizers, Dr. Akenson is a master at turning complex ideas into relatable, unforgettable lessons. In this captivating episode, we explore his groundbreaking methods, his neurodivergent-friendly approach, and his passion for shaping middle school education into a creative, supportive environment. Along the way, we’ll uncover why flexibility, empathy, and a touch of humor are essential for the future of learning.

Whether you’re an educator, a lifelong learner, or simply curious about the untapped potential of teaching, this conversation is sure to ignite your imagination and leave you inspired.

Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: Suzanne Swain
Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production 

Send Suzanne a Question or Comment:

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Send Suzanne a Question or Comment

Send Suzanne a Question or Comment:

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Join "Principal" Suzanne in this lively and heartwarming episode as she kicks off the school year with a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and kindness. From shouting out local sponsors like "Pretty Fly for a Wi-Fi" and "Curl Up and Dye," to introducing a remarkable new student, Hesse, Suzanne explores the beauty of seeing potential in every child.

Hesse, a military kid with a love for dogs and a genius for inventing "glorts" (glamping forts), becomes a symbol of the untapped creativity and resilience in all of us. Suzanne dives deep into how we can rethink challenges like ADHD, turn hesitation into an ally, and spark new emotions that drive connection and growth.

With her signature humor and thoughtful storytelling, Suzanne encourages teachers, parents, and listeners to embrace moments of hesitation, throw marshmallows of kindness, and rediscover the joy of middle school through creativity and collaboration. Whether you're a teacher, a parent, or just someone looking for a little spark of inspiration, this episode is a masterclass in seeing the extraordinary in the everyday.

Key Takeaways:

The magic of "teacher profiling" to highlight student strengths.How to turn everyday moments into glitter bombs of positivity.Building emotional resilience through imagination and creativityWhy kindness and a bit of silliness can transform the culture of a school.

Grab your coffee, take a seat, and let’s dive into a tapestry of teaching, learning, and heartfelt inspiration.

Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.msmarypoppins.com
Facebook: Suzanne Swain
Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production 

Send Suzanne a Question or Comment:

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Send Suzanne a Question or Comment:

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In this heartwarming and thought-provoking episode, Suzanne explores the metaphor of the apple to uncover the often hidden struggles and strengths of both teachers and students. Just like an apple may appear perfect on the outside, but be bruised within, people carry unseen emotions and experiences beneath their surface. Drawing from her experiences as a professor of education and therapist, Suzanne shares a powerful story about connecting with a student through a simple apple experiment, revealing deep truths about mental health, resilience, and the impact teachers have on shaping young lives. As she reflects on the challenges educators face post-pandemic, Suzanne offers an inspiring reminder that, like apples, there's beauty and sweetness in everyone—sometimes we just need to look beneath the surface.


Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.msmarypoppins.com
Facebook: Suzanne Swain
Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production 

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Remember when Mary Poppins seemed like the ultimate fix for everything? As a teacher and therapist, I’ve spent years wishing we had her magic back in the classroom. I’m Suzanne M. Swain, EDS/MSSW, and I've lived between the worlds of therapy and education, teaching emotions, middle school, and everything in between.

In this episode, we’ll dive deep into the heart of teaching and how creativity, empathy, and a sprinkle of that "Mary Poppins" magic can revive education. Together, we’ll explore how teachers can reclaim their spark, bring joy back into learning, and foster real connection with students—because, as Dr. Rita Pierson said, "Kids don’t learn from people they don’t like."

Join me on this whimsical journey to rethink middle school, inspire creativity, and rediscover the joy of teaching. Let’s create a new version of education that nurtures both students and teachers, because, like Mary Poppins, we have the power to transform lives—one classroom at a time. Ready to play? Let’s rewrite the game together!


Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.msmarypoppins.com
Facebook: Suzanne Swain
Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production 

Send Suzanne a Question or Comment:

Support the show