Team Crew Podcast: Exploring The Art of Balancing Life, Love, and Parenting
Crystal Shadwell & Mathew McNeeley
26 episodes
5 months ago
In a world where technology is everywhere, how do we raise kids who use it wisely — without fear, guilt, or power struggles? In this episode, Crystal and Mathew sit down with education researcher and mom Jessica Rizk to explore how parents can build stronger connections with their kids through technology, not despite it. They dive into surprising research about screen time, discuss how to spot healthy vs. harmful tech habits, and share practical ways to foster curiosity, critical thinking, an...
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In a world where technology is everywhere, how do we raise kids who use it wisely — without fear, guilt, or power struggles? In this episode, Crystal and Mathew sit down with education researcher and mom Jessica Rizk to explore how parents can build stronger connections with their kids through technology, not despite it. They dive into surprising research about screen time, discuss how to spot healthy vs. harmful tech habits, and share practical ways to foster curiosity, critical thinking, an...
In a world where technology is everywhere, how do we raise kids who use it wisely — without fear, guilt, or power struggles? In this episode, Crystal and Mathew sit down with education researcher and mom Jessica Rizk to explore how parents can build stronger connections with their kids through technology, not despite it. They dive into surprising research about screen time, discuss how to spot healthy vs. harmful tech habits, and share practical ways to foster curiosity, critical thinking, an...
Ever wonder why you feel lit up by some things—and drained by others? Or why your partner takes six months to decide on a car while you knew in five minutes? In this eye-opening episode, Crystal and Mathew explore Human Design with guide Brandi Healy (https://www.instagram.com/modernredhead). From parenting their manifesting generator toddler, Cole, to navigating the push-and-pull energy of their marriage, this conversation blends science, spirituality, and real-life stories to unpack ...
What happens when two parents hit pause on the chaos and reflect on their relationship? From a beachside gazebo in St. Lucia, Mathew and Crystal dive into their most honest relationship check-in yet. They talk about the their communication blind spots, and how stress shows up in sneaky (and spiky) ways. There’s laughter, vulnerability, and a few confessions. You’ll hear about emotional labor, travel anxiety, what they learned in therapy, and why booking one day a month together mi...
In this episode, we sit down with Jenna and Kerrie, hosts of How Motherhood Changed Me (@howmotherhoodchangedme), to explore the concept of matrescence—a transformational shift as profound as adolescence, yet rarely named or understood. From hilarious car seat revelations to raw truths about identity loss, hormones, and judgment, this conversation dives deep into the unexpected emotional rewiring that happens when you become a mother. We talk about the myths of “bouncing back,” how motherhood...
Is today’s education system smothering curiosity instead of fostering it? In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Wendy, a veteran educator and tutor (and Mathew's mom), to discuss why so many students lose their natural love for learning—and how parents can reclaim it. Wendy shares powerful insights from decades of experience, breaking down how the traditional school model prioritizes structure over curiosity, leaving many kids disengaged and uninspired. But all hope is not lost!...
We all know that having kids changes everything about your relationship with your partner—but have you ever stopped to consider how your relationship is shaping your child’s future? In this eye-opening episode, we flip the script on parenting and relationships, exploring how prioritizing your partnership isn’t just good for you—it’s crucial for your child’s emotional security and long-term well-being. From bedtime battles and hidden resentment to fun dates and clearing emotional cobwebs, we s...
Is parenting today harder than it was 40 years ago? My mom, Donna Shadwell, joins us to kick off Season 2 with an honest, hilarious, and sometimes brutally real conversation about motherhood—then and now. From why she never planned to have kids (until she did) to the social pressures, mental load, and overwhelming expectations of modern moms, we compare notes across generations. She shares why she wouldn’t have kids if she were 29 today, how parenting has changed (for better and worse), and w...
And that’s a wrap! Here brings the end of season 1 of the Team Crew Podcast!As we finish up Season 1, we're taking a short break to recharge and bring you an even more exciting Season 2! There’s lots more to look forward to. From heartwarming conversations with our moms (who have all the stories!) to deep dives into parenting, relationships, and everything in between, we're making sure there's something for everyone.📣 Join the Dialogue! We want to hear your stories and questions. Share y...
In this special episode of the Team Crew Podcast, we revisit some of the most impactful moments from our guest interviews. From self-care and mindfulness with Alicia Grigaitis to reconnecting when life kills the mood with Heather Craig, these clips offer insights on parenting, collaboration, and overcoming life’s challenges. Tune in to hear highlights from inspiring guests like Marsha Vanwynsberghe, Carly Ottaway, the Hon. Jenna Sudds, Erinn Yakabuski, and more.📣 Join the Dialogue! We want to...
In this episode, we dive deep into a conversation that many couples shy away from—intimacy and sex in long-term relationships. Joined by seasoned sex therapist Heather Craig, we explore the complexities of maintaining a healthy sexual connection through life changes, parenting, and busy schedules. Heather shares valuable insights on breaking down barriers to intimacy, why scheduling sex isn’t as unromantic as it sounds, and how to reframe pleasure beyond the typical “good stuff.” Whether you’...
This week, it's a short one as Mathew and Crystal take a much-needed break to reflect on their journey so far. Even as they pause this week, they still take a few moments to revisit past episodes and acknowledge the importance of rest. This "non-episode" serves as a reminder to pause, reflect, and embrace the messy, real moments of life.See ya next week!📣 Join the Dialogue! We want to hear your stories and questions. Share your experiences with us as we navigate the ups and downs of parenthoo...
Burnout is more common than we’d like to admit. Join us as we dive deep into the shifting mindset that changed everything for our guest, Erinn Yakabuski, a leadership coach and wellness advocate (https://www.erinnyakabuski.com/about). We explore the critical question: Have we been getting it all wrong when it comes to productivity? Erinn shares her personal journey through burnout, the powerful connection between work and rest, and practical tips on how to slow down without sacrificing succes...
In this episode of The Team Crew Podcast, Mathew and Crystal get real about the struggles of juggling full-time careers, parenting their energetic almost three-year-old, pursuing personal interests, and maintaining their relationship. It may seem like they’ve got it all figured out, but they reveal the truth about dropped balls, daily chaos, and the overwhelming stress that comes with trying to manage it all. From rushed weekday mornings to the pressures of balancing work, family, and persona...
In this special highlight episode of the Team Crew Podcast, we revisit some of our most insightful and inspiring moments. From parenting challenges to navigating friendships, tech, and relationships, this episode serves up a mix of humor, reflection, and heart as we explore how to bring the best of ourselves to every aspect of life. Perfect for those looking for a little inspiration as the season shifts!📣 Join the Dialogue! We want to hear your stories and questions. Share your experiences wi...
In this episode, we sit down with the Honourable Jenna Sudds, M.P., Canadian Minister of Family, Children, and Social Development, to explore the intricate balance between her public service and her role as a mother of three teenage daughters. Jenna shares her journey into government, highlighting how her experiences as a parent have shaped her approach to policy-making. We delve into the real-world impact of government programs that she is championing like the Canada Child Benefit and ...
Are you a parent grappling with the hopes and dreams you have for your child while navigating the complexities of modern parenting? In this episode, join us as we delve into the balance of trying to raise a resilient, empathetic, and curious child amidst the pressures of today's world. Listen in as we share our personal reflections on the traits we hope to pass on to our son, Cole, and the ones we hope he avoids! This episode isn't just about parenting tips—it's a candid exploratio...
In this episode, we chat with Carly Ottaway, founder of marketing agency, Web of Words, who shares her journey from being a career-driven copywriter to leading a thriving marketing agency, all while navigating the complexities of family life. Carly opens up about the challenges and rewards of working alongside her spouse, the essential role of collaboration in her business growth, and the profound identity shift that comes with becoming a parent. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a parent,...
We celebrate Crystal's birthday (her 10th anniversary of her 29th birthday!) with a mix of light-hearted fun and deep introspection. Join us as Crystal shares her journey over the past year, reflecting on personal growth, learning from setbacks, and the continuous quest for self-improvement. Through rapid-fire birthday questions, we uncover her favourite memories and traditions, revealing the joy she finds in family, friends, and food.Crystal opens up about the humbling experience of not bein...
In this episode, we delve into the too-often transient nature of adult friendships and explore why maintaining these connections can be so challenging yet profoundly important. Drawing from personal stories and the long-term Harvard study on adult development, we discuss how career, family, and geography shape our relationships. We share the joys and bittersweet moments of reconnecting with old friends and the crucial role that social connections play in our happiness and longevity. Joi...
Today, we’re diving into a personal story close to our hearts—the tale of how we met and became “Team Crew.” Join us as we take a nostalgic trip back to 2016/2017, sharing the quirky and unexpected journey that led to our first date and beyond.Whether you’re in a relationship, looking for one, or simply enjoy a good love story, this episode is a testament to the magic that can happen when you least expect it. Tune in to hear about the shirts that symbolize our journey and the lessons we’ve le...
Team Crew Podcast: Exploring The Art of Balancing Life, Love, and Parenting
In a world where technology is everywhere, how do we raise kids who use it wisely — without fear, guilt, or power struggles? In this episode, Crystal and Mathew sit down with education researcher and mom Jessica Rizk to explore how parents can build stronger connections with their kids through technology, not despite it. They dive into surprising research about screen time, discuss how to spot healthy vs. harmful tech habits, and share practical ways to foster curiosity, critical thinking, an...
