Parenting has never come with a manual—but today's parents are navigating challenges that previous generations could never have imagined.

In this episode of Rooted & Rising, Dr. Carmela Maxell explores the emotional, mental, and physical weight of raising children in an era of constant comparison, technology, social media, financial stress, and ever-changing expectations. From the pressure to be the "perfect parent" to balancing careers, relationships, and personal well-being, many parents are carrying far more than anyone realizes.

Together, we'll talk about parental guilt, burnout, overstimulation, the invisible mental load, and why so many parents feel like they're failing—even when they're doing their absolute best. Most importantly, we'll discuss why it's okay to ask for help, why breaking down doesn't make you a bad parent, and how giving yourself grace may be one of the greatest gifts you can give your children.

If you've ever questioned whether you're enough, felt overwhelmed by the demands of parenting, or simply needed someone to remind you that you're not alone, this conversation is for you.

Because strong parents don't never break down...

Strong parents learn how to get back up.

Have you ever picked up your phone to check one notification...only to realize an hour has disappeared?

In this episode of Rooted & Rising, Dr. Carmela Maxell explores the hidden psychology behind doomscrolling and why endless scrolling affects more than just your screen time—it can quietly influence your creativity, motivation, decision-making, and even your ability to pursue the life you truly want.

Together, we'll unpack concepts like the Zeigarnik Effect, decision fatigue, the psychology of infinite scrolling, and why watching productive people can trick our brains into feeling productive ourselves. More importantly, we'll discuss practical strategies to break the cycle, reclaim your attention, and start investing your time in building your own dreams instead of endlessly consuming someone else's.

If you've ever felt mentally exhausted after scrolling, struggled to focus on your own goals, or wondered where your creativity has gone, this conversation is for you.

It's time to stop doomscrolling your dreams...and start living them.

In this episode of Rooted & Rising, Dr. Maxell sits down with Joy Larkin, narcissistic abuse recovery coach and founder of Live Narc Free, for an honest conversation about narcissistic abuse, trauma bonds, emotional manipulation, healing, and reclaiming a sense of self.

Together, they explore the signs and patterns commonly associated with narcissistic abuse, including love bombing, gaslighting, triangulation, future faking, emotional dependency, and the challenges many survivors face when trying to leave unhealthy relationships. They also discuss recovery, self-worth, boundaries, and practical strategies for rebuilding a life after abuse.

Whether you've personally experienced narcissistic abuse, are supporting someone who has, or simply want to better understand these relationship dynamics, this conversation offers insight, education, and hope. Joy's work focuses on helping individuals overcome narcissistic abuse, rebuild self-esteem, and move forward with confidence and healing.

⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of emotional abuse, coercive control, trauma bonding, manipulation, stalking behaviors, and narcissistic abuse.

Learn more about Joy Larkin and her work:
🌐 Live Narc Free