123: The Art Of New Parenthood
Podcast Guest: Joni Parthemer
March 10th, 2025
Listen to the Show:
In this Episode
In this episode of Stronger Marriage Connection, Dr. Liz Hale and Dr. Dave Schramm talk with Joni Parthemer, an expert in childbirth education and Director of the Bringing Baby Home program at the Gottman Institute. They discuss the challenges new parents face, how relationship dynamics shift after childbirth, and practical tools to maintain a strong partnership. Joni shares the science behind relationship satisfaction, emotional attunement, and co-parenting strategies that help couples navigate early parenthood successfully. This conversation also highlights the importance of postpartum support, grandparent involvement, and how families can create a shared legacy. Packed with expert insights and actionable tips, this episode is a must-listen for expecting and new parents!
“The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the Utah Marriage Commission.”
Time Markers
00:00 - Introduction to Joni Parthemer and her expertise
02:19 - The research behind Bringing Baby Home
06:22 - The three key ingredients for strong relationships
10:25 - Surprising research findings on postpartum mood and parenting
14:05 - Why Bringing Baby Home workshops make a difference
15:00 - Essential tips for expecting and new parents
20:34 - The NURSE acronym for postpartum well-being
24:06 - How to emotionally connect with your newborn
27:05 - The evolving role of grandparents in parenting
30:08 - Finding the right balance as supportive grandparents
33:51 - The key to a stronger marriage connection
36:17 - Where to find Bringing Baby Home workshops and resources
38:18 - Final takeaway: A strong relationship is the best gift for your child
Insights
Joni’s
A child's well-being is deeply influenced by the health of their family environment. The best gift parents can give their children is a strong, healthy relationship—whether married, divorced, or co-parenting. Parents serve as role models for future relationships, shaping how their children connect with others. By maintaining friendship, managing conflict with respect, and creating shared meaning through family rituals, couples can build a supportive and nurturing "family fish tank" that fosters lasting emotional security.
Liz’s
The CPR approach—Consistency, Predictability, and Responsiveness—is not just valuable for parenting but also strengthens all relationships, including marriage and friendship. By being reliable, steady, and attentive, we create trust and connection in our most important relationships.
Dave’s
Education is key to growth. With so many resources available today, we have endless opportunities to learn and improve as partners, parents, and individuals.
About Joni:
Joni Parthemer holds a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction/Learning Styles degree and is both a Master Trainer and Education Director for the Bringing Baby Home Program. She also holds certification as a Childbirth Educator and International Childbirth Association Approved Trainer.
Joni is a faculty member at Simkin Center for Allied Birth Professions at Bastyr University as well as a Specialist in the Birth and Family Education Department at Swedish Medical Center in Seattle.
Joni serves as an educator, trainer and consultant for a variety of educational and organizational programs. She serves families and those who support them with engaging authenticity and wit. She is an award-wining, internationally recognized speaker and facilitator who infuses her decades of experience with her charismatic and energetic style.
Joni has developed, published, and implemented, a variety of training materials for educators interested in providing support and growth programs for families and communities. She is married and the mother of two children.
Joni's Resources
https://jptrainsandspeaks.com/
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