For years it has been touted that if you want well-adjusted children you should prioritize family dinners. This ritual gives children a sense of stability, connection, and nourishment. Let's be real. Not all our memories at the dinner table are moments of connection and flourishing. In this episode we hear from Nathan on a story from the family dinner table.

Uncovering Childhood Struggles and Family Dynamics with Nathan Key Join Elle, Kristen, and Dennis on the Phoenix Effect podcast as they interview Nathan Key, a training and development professional from Maine. Nathan shares a poignant story of his childhood, revealing the challenges he faced growing up with a strong-willed mother and an emotionally distant father. Through his narrative, listeners gain insight into family dynamics, personal autonomy, and resilience. This episode delves into Nathan's journey of standing up for himself, the emotional impact of rigid household rules, and the enduring struggle for personal freedom within a family setting. 00:00 Introduction to the Phoenix Effect Podcast 00:34 Meet Nathan Key: Life in Maine 01:49 Father's Day Weekend: The Real Story 04:23 Nathan's Story: A Family Dinner 08:02 Processing the Story: Emotions and Reflections 12:40 Exploring Family Dynamics 34:14 Conclusion and Listener InvitationTo learn more about Elle you can visit: https://www.courageousstepscounseling.com you can find her on social media at: therapy with_elle on instagram and tik tok To learn more about Kristin you can visit: https://www.kristinboscaljon.com #parenting #familydinner