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Cat & Nat Unfiltered

What ACTUALLY Makes a College Right for Your Kid

Ever wonder how Canadian universities stay so budget-friendly while American schools make you broke just to look at a campus? Or why community matters more than your GPA when picking the perfect college? This episode is a hilarious deep dive into the real stuff that shapes your kid’s future — from studying with tutors who actually get results to building a community so your teen doesn’t feel like they’re drowning in academic isolation.

Join us as we unpack everything from the secret power of IEPs to how the right campus vibe can make or break your kid’s happiness (because who knew community was a core ingredient to success?). We break down why sports, clubs, and a sense of belonging might be the most underrated college prep tools out there — way better than obsessing over the "best" program. Plus, get the insider scoop on how to navigate roommate rules, avoid the BO disasters, and keep your sanity when your baby heads off to university.

This episode isn’t just for parents stressing over tuition and college choices — it’s for anyone who’s ever wondered if the perfect school exists or just wants to laugh at how hilariously complicated teen independence can be. If you believe that your kid’s happiness might just be the best investment, listen up


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  • 26. Youth Hockey Is Basically Gossip Girl on Ice- Part 2

    22:32||Season 15, Ep. 26
    This isn’t just about sports it’s about life lessons, confidence, and rethinking what winning really means. If you’re raising kids, or just want to laugh at how parents lose their minds over stuff that’s supposed to be fun, this episode is your new MVP.And hey, if you ever thought youth coaching was a nightmare, wait until you hear our wild, totally genius idea: live feedback panels for every game, judged by real pros, and delivered directly to parents and kids. Yep, we're talking about turning sports into a reality TV show parental drama included.Whether you’re in the game already or just here for the laughs, this episode will leave you wondering if we’re all just trying to be the best… at parenting. Or at least, not embarrassing ourselves on the sidelines.Perfect for parents, coaches, or anyone who’s ever thought winning isn’t everything—it's about how you play the game (and what you teach your kids along the way).Get ready to laugh, learn, and maybe even chill out a little because your kid isn’t just the best. They’re perfect just the way they are.Why this works: We hook listeners with the relatable chaos of sports parenting, then give hilarious but insightful takes on entitlement, confidence, and what truly makes a kid successful making everyone nod, smile, and hit replay. This episode is perfect for parents tired of the drama, sports fans who love a good laugh, and anyone who wants a smarter, cooler approach to raising resilient kids.
  • 25. Youth Hockey Is Basically Gossip Girl on Ice

    31:24||Season 15, Ep. 25
    Ever wonder what happens when youth hockey turns into the real-life version of "Gossip Girl"? Spoiler alert: parents sleeping with coaches, secret affairs, and grandma throwing sticks with the precision of a stand-up comic. If you've ever questioned the sanity of youth sports, buckle up, because this episode is your front-row seat to the chaos—and trust us, it's juicier than a soap opera binge.We dive headfirst into the scandalous world of team secrets: coaches hooking up with moms, moms flashing boobs on the ice, and the undercover rules players and parents pretend not to break. Plus, you'll discover how hockey tournaments are basically adult reality TV—minus the cameras where chaos reigns, and everyone’s fighting over ice time, hookups, and reputation. Oh, and did we mention grandma’s throwing sticks? Yeah, it gets THAT wild.From behind-the-scenes secrets of birthday skates that aren't so innocent, to the cutthroat parental politics that make "Game of Thrones" look tame—this episode lays bare the messy, hilarious truth about youth sports. Think it's just about tiny skaters? Nope. It's about power, secrets, and the hilarious lengths some will go to for a shot at glory (or just a good hookup).If you’ve ever survived a soccer game or watched from the bleachers while the drama unfolds, this episode is your ultimate guilty pleasure.
  • 24. Botox, Lasers and The Honest Truth- Skin Regime

    27:32||Season 15, Ep. 24
    Have you ever looked in the mirror and wished for a magic wand to get that perfect, glowing skin? In this episode, we're diving into the world of skincare secrets that actually work. From the latest laser treatments like PicoSure to the real deal on Botox — we’re sharing what’s worth your time and what’s just hype.Join us as we chat about our own skincare adventures, including the gooey facials and laser treatments we've tried. We’ll break down those fancy terms like Morpheus8 and exosomes in a way that makes sense, and yes, we’ll even talk about Rogaine for hair growth (because who knew hair thinning was a thing?).We’re getting real about what treatments make a difference, why Botox might be your skin’s new best friend, and the surprising skincare tips the pros swear by. Plus, we’ll share what’s worth doing at home and what’s just a waste of money.Whether you’re a skincare enthusiast or a skeptic, this episode is for you. We promise to keep it fun, informative, and free of the usual BS. So, if you’re ready to learn and laugh along the way, hit play and let’s make your skin the star of the show.*P.S. No skincare products or lasers were harmed in the making of this episode.*
  • 23. Interviewing Haley Jackman: How Tiktok Ruined my University Experience

    36:16||Season 15, Ep. 23
    Most teens think university is where you magically become a fully formed adult.Haley Jackman learned it’s more like being dropped into a jungle — with a ring light and a comment section watching your every move.At 19, the Canadian influencer arrived on Western’s campus with a growing platform and an unfiltered voice. What followed? Viral headlines, social fallout, brand deals that funded Golden Gooses — and the hard realization that adulthood doesn’t come with instructions.In this episode, Haley opens up about:What happens when you post your real-time confessions onlineThe social cost of being “known” on campusWhy normal isn’t always the goalThe glitter and grit of influencer lifeAnd why walking away from college can be just as brave as sticking it outWe talk about identity, criticism, independence, and the quiet power of choosing solitude over cliques. Haley shares how social media became both her shield and her sword — and why she’s now building something even bigger from her unfiltered truth.If you’re a teen carving your own path, a parent trying to understand social media culture, or someone who’s ever felt behind in the “grown-up” race, this episode is for you.Because sometimes the bravest thing you can do… is admit you don’t have all the answers.For more on Haley check out @haleymjackman
  • 22. The Truth About Workout Sets, Matching Leggings & Why Lululemon Is Dead to Us

    33:42||Season 15, Ep. 22
    Are we all stuck in a Lululemon time warp… or did the gym turn into a matching-set cult overnight?This week, Cat & Nat talk “cool girl workout uniform” and ask the question no one wants to say out loud: are we dressing to sweat… or to audition for Instagram?From shiny ponytails and half-bra sets to the silent pressure of looking 27 forever, we’re breaking down how gym culture quietly became a fashion show — and why some of us are still clinging to leggings from 2014 like they’re a personality trait.We get into:• The rise and fall of “it brands” (yes, we said it).• Why matching sets feel like a personality test.• The subtle panic of realizing you might have aged out of “cool.”• How to dress for your actual body and life — not a 23-year-old influencer’s feed.• Why confidence hits harder than any $180 sports bra ever will.If you’ve ever stood in front of your closet thinking, “Am I trying to be trendy… or do I just want to feel good?” this episode is your permission slip to choose happy.No fashion rules. No influencer math. Just real talk about getting dressed, getting older, and getting comfortable owning both.Because the real flex? Wearing what you love and not caring who disagrees.
  • 21. The Day You Realize You’re Not in Control Anymore

    36:11||Season 15, Ep. 21
    Ready to feel seen? This episode hits hard on the chaos, tears, and tiny victories of parenting adults and how it’s basically a never-ending soap opera. If you're racing the clock, wondering when the hell it gets easier, grab a drink or maybe two because you're not alone in this wild ride.We dive into the real-life breakdown of watching your kids grow up, the trauma of them leaving the nest, and the secret desire to hit pause on the entire process. You’ll discover why all the “kids grow up so fast” advice is a total lie, and how the biggest surprises come when you least expect them like realizing that adulting is just giant emotional rollercoaster with no seat belts. Also, get this the truth about favorite cities, the highs and lows of university fears, and why retirement homes might be the only peace left in this madness.Our candid chats cover everything from obsessively planning their college escape routes, to that gut-twisting moment when you see their tiny hands turn into big decisions. You'll learn how to survive kids’ crises, keep your sanity, and what really happens when your role shifts from protector to spectator.This episode is perfect if you’re tired of pretending you have it all together, or just want to laugh through the tears. Spoiler: It’s a hot mess for everyone, and that’s totally okay. Because, let’s be honest if you’re still breathing, you’re winning the parenting game.Ready to embrace the chaos and maybe even laugh about it? Hit play and let’s normalize the fact that none of us actually know what we’re doing. Trust us, you're going to want a front-row seat for this one.
  • 20. Parenting Unfiltered: Social Media Consumption Has to Be Taught

    31:51||Season 15, Ep. 20
    Is the digital world quietly reshaping our kids’ mental health? TikTok and Instagram aren’t just apps, they’re where our kids compare, perform, and define themselves. The way they consume content can impact anxiety, self-worth, sleep, and overall well-being. As parents, we need to understand how to guide our kids without shaming them. If social media literacy isn’t being taught at home, it’s will be taught by the algorithm.This podcast is presented by The Common Parent. The all-in-one parenting resource you need to for your teens & tweens. We've uncovered every parenting issue, so you don't have too.Are you a parent that is struggling understanding the online world, setting healthy screen-time limits, or navigating harmful online content? Purchase screen sense for $24.99 & unlock Cat & Nat’s ultimate guide to parenting in the digital age. Go to https://www.thecommonparent.com/screen-sense-complete-guideFollow @thecommonparent on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecommonparent/
  • 19. Questions Married People Miss

    30:57||Season 15, Ep. 19
    On this episode, we dive into the unspoken battles of parenting styles, those subtle power struggles that can cause massive rifts plus the untold toll of sports obsession and how communities or the lack of them shape your sanity. Imagine trying to parent while simultaneously keeping your marriage from turning into a hockey rink or a battle over school choices you’ll see exactly how these little stuffers become giants. You'll discover how men’s primal reactions to hurt trigger kind of a “protector or selfish” debate, and how moms instinctively give up their needs to show love, often without even thinking. We also explore what happens when couples face different visions of the future like kids and their big life decisions and why most don’t really talk about these conflicts until it’s too late. This isn’t just a vent session it's a masterclass in understanding the silent struggles, massive sacrifices, and emotional gymnastics that turn “normal” families into overbooked, overwhelmed, secretly exhausted warriors. Or, more simply: why parenting isn’t just about the kids it’s about surviving the chaos while keeping your sanity. Perfect for anyone in a relationship, grappling with parenting disagreements, or just wondering why your life feels like a sitcom, this episode will leave you nodding, laughing, and maybe even feeling a little less alone. Because when it comes down to it, we’re all just trying to get through the day without losing our minds or our partners.