The Intentional Table

PODCAST · kids

The Intentional Table

Feeding kids isn’t just about what’s on the plate - it’s about raising them to feel confident, capable, and at peace with food and their bodies.The Intentional Table Podcast is here to help you break the cycles of guilt, shame,  and mealtime stress so you can raise kids who eat well and feel good about it.Hosted by Nicole Cruz, a registered dietitian and mom of three who has coached thousands of parents, this podcast gives you the tools, structure, and mindset shifts to create a positive, empowered eating environment at home.With guidance, compassion, and strategies that really work, you’ll feel more confident and less stressed while supporting your kids through 'picky' eating, 'overeating', struggles with sweets, and everything in between.

  1. 37

    Why Your Kid Won't Eat Vegetables (and what you can do!)

    You put broccoli on their plate and they won't touch it.You try again. And again. And still nothing.But what if you just don't have the right strategy yet?In this episode, we talk about:Why more exposure alone isn't always the answer - and what else you needTons of ideas for preparing, serving, and encouraging your child to try veggies without pressureTaste tests as a low-pressure, even fun way to build curiosity without expectationsWhat to do when you feel like you're already standing on your head serving it 22 different waysWhy it's normal to be frustrated - and how to make sure that's not accidentally turning into pressure at the tableIf you've ever felt like you've tried everything and your kid still won't touch a vegetable, this episode will give you a few new things to try - and permission to keep going without needing to control the outcome.Resources Mentioned:✅ Give Your Kid a Knife with Heather StallerWant to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  2. 36

    You Can't Think Your Way Out of Food Struggles with Stefanie Michele

    You've read books. You've listened to podcasts. You follow experts on social media. And you understand, logically, why you shouldn't comment on what your kid puts on their plate or how much they eat. And then dinner happens, and something comes out of your mouth anyway.Or you know how bad you feel when you eat too much, but you find yourself in the kitchen at 10pm doing the exact thing you swore you were done doing.It's not because you don't know better. It's because knowing and feeling safe are two completely different things.Stefanie Michele is a coach, writer, and nervous system educator who recovered from decades of binge-restrict cycles and now helps people understand the deeper forces driving their food struggles and why they can't just logic their way out of them.In this episode, we talk about:Why you can understand something completely and still not be able to do it - and what's actually going on in your brain when that happensHow diet culture and wellness culture keep your nervous system in a low-level state of threat, even when you're not consciously aware of itWhy binge eating keeps happening even when you hate how it feelsHow your own dysregulation shows up at the dinner table and drives the reactions you can't seem to stopSimple, body-based tools to bring yourself down a notch in the moment - before you say the thing you don't want to sayIf you've ever felt like you know exactly what you should do and still can't do it - around food, with your child, or basically anything in life - this episode will finally bring some clarity and help you see why it's not willpower, and there's nothing wrong with you.Connect more with Stefani Michele:✅ Podcast: Full But Not Finished✅ Instagram: @iamstephaniemichele✅ YouTube: Stephanie Michele✅ Website: iamstephaniemichele.comWant to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  3. 35

    When Other Kids Tell Your Child A Food Is Bad

    You're being intentional. You're thinking about the language you use, how you talk about food at the table, what you allow and don't allow. And then your kid comes home and tells you that Joey said french fries are bad for you. Or you're standing right there when another little kid announces that pepperoni is bad. And you probably want to jump in and "fix" it.You're trying so hard to change the messaging and give your child a healthy relationship with food.But this is the culture we're raising our kids in. There are always going to be peers, family members, coaches, and teachers who say things about food that go against the way you're trying to support your child. We can't build a bubble. But we can build a foundation and help our kids start to think critically about the messages they're hearing instead of just absorbing them.In this episode, we talk about:The different reasons kids say certain foods are bad, from diet culture messaging to allergies to cultural and religious food practicesWhat to say in the moment when you're right there and another kid makes a commentHow to have the conversation with your younger child (preschool and early elementary) when they bring it homeHow to go deeper with older elementary kids in a way that builds critical thinking skillsThe most powerful question you can ask your child to help them make decisions around foodIf you want your child to have a healthy relationship with food and want to know how to best support them given the culture we live in - this episode is for you!Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  4. 34

    Give Your Kid a Knife with Heather Staller

    Have you heard that you should have your kid help in the kitchen? Probably that it will help expose them to new foods, feel more comfortable with different foods, create independence. But maybe it also feels like a big chore. And when it comes to actually getting them there, it feels like a lot. The mess, the patience it takes, the kid who stirs once and disappears.I get it! But what if it's actually not THAT big of a deal. Heather Staller is a trained chef, culinary school graduate, and the creator of Happy Kids Kitchen. She's spent years teaching kids of all ages to cook - in classrooms, in recreational cooking schools, in preschools - and her message to parents is simple: you don't need a recipe, a plan, or even a fully willing child. You just need one minute.In this episode, we talk about:Why one minute in the kitchen genuinely counts - and how it adds up more than you'd expectThe single most important skill to teach your kid firstWhy spreading is one of the most underrated kitchen skills - like spreading butter, peanut butter, jellyHow to involve a kid who has zero interest in helpingWhere to start if you're not much of a cook yourselfHow getting kids comfortable in the kitchen helps with more than just nutritionIf you've ever wanted your child to be more capable and confident, in the kitchen and beyond, this episode will show you where to start.RESOURCES MENTIONED: ✅ Smoothie Download: The Smoothie Lab✅ Blog Post: Teaching Knife Skills to Toddlers and Kids (Safety and Basics)✅ Cookbook: Kid Kitchen ✅ Instagram: @happykidskitchen Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  5. 33

    When the Joy Goes Out of Eating, Nutrition Suffers

    Here's what I want you to consider: How does food actually feel in your home right now?Does it feel joyful, playful, connected? Or does it feel pressured, stressful, controlled?Because here's the truth that Ellyn Satter taught us: When the joy goes out of eating, nutrition suffers.When eating feels stressful or controlled, kids eat less variety. They're less curious about food. They resist more. And all those strategies that you're implementing don't work nearly as well - or they backfire completely.But when the environment feels good - when there's more joy, ease, and connection - everything shifts. Kids are more likely to try new foods, listen to their body cues, stay at the table, and actually eat a greater variety.The environment isn't just one more strategy. It's the foundation. It's the thing you come back to when anything feels off. It's your thermostat for whether you're moving in the right direction.In this episode, I break down:Why the environment around food is the foundation that colors everything elseHow to create joy AND structure (not one or the other)Real examples of how shifting the environment helps kids regardless of their eating patterns or the behaviors you're seeingWhy focusing on connection instead of food actually leads to better nutritionSmall, doable things you can try tonight to bring more joy to your tableIf mealtimes feel tense, if your child is eating out of balance, if you're worried about nutrition, if you're not sure what else to do... this episode will help you see what might be missing.RESOURCES MENTIONED:✅ Free Guide: Make Meals Fun ✅ Episode 28 (on distractions): Is It Bad to Let My Kid Eat in Front of a Screen?Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  6. 32

    When 'Healthy Eating' Becomes Disordered Eating

    We all want our kids to eat well, make "good" choices with food, and care about their health.So when they start choosing salads over pizza, or asking about ingredients, or saying they want to eat healthier - it can feel like a win.But what if those "healthy choices" aren't actually about health at all?What if they're early warning signs of something more concerning - something that's easy to miss because it looks so positive on the surface?The truth is... disordered eating in kids doesn't usually start with dramatic restriction or obvious weight loss. It starts with things that get praised. Things that seem responsible. Things that look like discipline or being health-conscious.And we're seeing these behaviors show up earlier and earlier, not just in teenagers, but in elementary-aged kids.In this episode, I'm sharing what disordered eating usually looks like, why it's so easy to miss, and what signs are worth paying attention to... because the earlier we notice, the better the outcome.I also share my own story with disordered eating and why this work is so personal to me.We talk about:How eating disorders and disordered eating are showing up in younger kids nowThe early signs that often get disguised as "healthy choices" or disciplineChanges in eating behavior, anxiety around food, body image concerns, and exercise patterns to watch forWhy an eating disorder doesn't look like not eatingHow the way we talk about food at home can either plant seeds for protection or chip away at trustWhat to do if you're noticing patterns that feel concerningThis is not about creating fear or walking on eggshells. It's about knowing what to watch for so we can support our kids early - and so we can be intentional about the messages we're sending about food and bodies at home.If you just want to be more aware of what these behaviors can look like, or if you're already wondering if something might be off, this episode is for you.Foundational Episodes Referenced:It's Not a Food Free-for-AllAll Food is Not EqualWhat the Heck is a Relationship with Food?Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  7. 31

    Is It Bad to Let My Kid Eat in Front of a Screen?

    "Is it okay to let my kid watch a show while they eat?""Should we be stricter about no screens at meals?""Am I creating bad habits if they eat in front of an iPad?"I get this question all the time... And the answer isn't a simple yes or no.The real question isn't whether screens are good or bad. It's: How is this impacting my child's connection to food, their body, and their overall experience with eating?Because here's the thing: not all distraction is the same. And sometimes, a little distraction is actually exactly what your child needs.In this episode, I break down:The distraction spectrum: from hyper-stimulation (scrolling) to fully mindful eating (and why neither extreme is the goal)When distraction disconnects kids from their hunger and fullness cuesWhen distraction actually helps kids stay regulated enough to eatHow to tell if screens at meals are supporting your child or working against themWhy sometimes the goal isn't more presence - it's less pressureThe difference between distraction that zones kids out vs. distraction that takes the spotlight off foodIf mealtimes feel tense, if your kid won't stay at the table, or if you're just wondering whether you need to ban screens entirely - this episode will help you think about it differently.Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  8. 30

    Eating Whatever You Want Isn't Intuitive Eating with Katy Harvey

    Are you familiar with Intuitive Eating? Maybe you take that approach with food yourself... or maybe you've heard of it.But when you think about actually doing it, you think: If I let myself eat whatever I want, I'd never stop. I'd only eat junk. I'd never touch a vegetable.Totally get it! When we think about intuitive eating, we often think - just eat whatever you want. But that's not really what it is.In this episode, I'm talking with non-diet dietitian Katy Harvey about what intuitive eating actually is, how to start rebuilding trust with your body, and why doing this work for yourself is one of the most powerful things you can do for your kids.Katy shares her journey from working in eating disorder treatment to helping women step off the diet roller coaster before it becomes something more serious. And she's breaking down all the misconceptions.In this conversation, we talk about:What non-diet nutrition actually means (and what to do instead of dieting)The real framework behind intuitive eating (because it's not just the hunger-fullness diet)How to tell if you're eating enough in the first place - because restriction might be driving the behaviors you think are "out of control"Why you can't keep certain foods in the house (and how to start neutralizing them)The specific challenges parents face with intuitive eating - and practical strategies that actually workIf you've ever thought "I want my kids to have food freedom, but I don't know if I can trust myself with food," this episode will show you there's a path forward - for you and for them.Mentioned in this episode:FB Group: Intuitive Eating Made EasyIG: Follow HERE! @katyharvey.rdTikTok: Follow HERE! @katyharvey.rd For more info: katyharvey.netWant to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  9. 29

    My Kid Wants a Snack Every 30 Minutes - What Should I Do?

    You're in the kitchen getting snacks. Again. For the third time in an hour. Or you're staring at the dinner table watching your kid ask for seconds after already eating more than you did. Or maybe you're wondering if your child will ever eat a vegetable that isn't a carrot.If any of this sounds familiar, you're not alone. These are three of the most common questions I get from parents, and I'm guessing at least one of them has crossed your mind too.In this episode, I'm breaking down exactly what to do when:Your kid wants a snack every 30 minutes (and you feel like you live in the kitchen)Your kid will only eat one vegetable - or none at allYour kid always wants seconds and seems like they never have a stopping pointHere's what I want you to know: all of these behaviors are normal. But that doesn't mean we just let it go. There are practical, doable things you can do to support your child - without pressure, without stress, and without being in the kitchen 24/7.If you're ready for straight-to-the-point answers that you can actually use today, this episode is for you.Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  10. 28

    Parenting Without Diet Culture with Oona Hanson

    As parents, we're constantly bombarded with conflicting messages about food: avoid ultra-processed foods, watch out for seed oils, limit sugar, push the vegetables. And underneath all of it is this fear - that if we don't control what our kids eat, something bad will happen.In this episode, I'm talking with parent coach and educator Oona Hanson about what it really means to parent without diet culture - and why letting go of food rules and weight concerns is one of the most powerful things we can do for our kids' health.Oona shares her journey from high school teacher to parent coach after helping her own child recover from an eating disorder. And she's not holding back on the hard truths: kids as young as six are showing up in treatment for anorexia, our focus on "healthy eating" is making kids sicker, and the restrictive messages we're sending are often the exact thing driving the behaviors we're trying to prevent.In this conversation, we talk about:What diet culture actually is (and what it's not)The early warning signs of disordered eating in elementary-aged kids that parents often missWhy kids need to gain significant weight during puberty - and what happens when we try to prevent itHow to respond when your child asks "why is my belly sticking out?" without making it worseThe truth about weight and health that challenges everything we've been taughtWhy restriction and control around food almost always backfireIf you know that you want to parent without diet culture and show your child there's another way to think about food and bodies, then this episode is for you!Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  11. 27

    What to Do When Someone Else Gives Your Kid "Treats"

    You know when you're at the soccer game, the birthday party, or picking up from school, and you see your kid walking toward you with a bag full of candy, chips, a sugary drink... And you think to yourself: Really? Again? Another treat?The amount of food handouts from friends, family, teachers, teammates... can feel endless.And when it's not what you had planned, or what you would necessarily choose, you're left trying to figure out how to handle it without making it into a big deal - or maybe you even react because you really don't want them to eat it, or it's about to be dinner time.In this episode, I'm walking through:How to think about these 'extra' snacks and sweets so that you can respond in an effective and helpful wayWhat to say and what not to say in these moments so that snacks and sweets don't become the 'forbidden fruit'A simple, judgment-free framework for navigating the snack bag moment in a way that keeps food neutral and your child feeling trustedWhether your kid is doesn't want to tell you when they get candy or snacks, or you've just been letting them have the whole bag and hoping for the best, this episode will give you a calmer, more confident way to handle it.Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  12. 26

    Is your kid an intuitive eater?

    Your child is capable of listening to their body, eating a variety of foods, and not being obsessed with sweets.Yes, even if they seem to have "no off switch" around food. Even if they're extremely "picky". Even if it feels like they've always been this way.The truth is: kids are born intuitive eaters. They instinctively know how to listen to their hunger and fullness cues, seek out the nutrients they need, and stop when they've had enough. Just like a newborn cries for milk and pulls away when full.But something can get in the way of, or compete with, that natural ability.In this episode, I'm breaking down:Why kids are naturally intuitive eaters (and what that actually means)The three types of interference that disrupt your child's natural eating instincts - internal, circumstantial, and feeding dynamicsReal client stories of kids who seemed "broken" around food but completely transformed when the interference was removedHow to do a quick inventory to figure out what might be getting in the way for YOUR childWhen you understand that your child is capable - they just need the right support and environment - everything changes. You can remove what's in the way and support them to be an intuitive eater.It is never too late to make these shifts. Your child is capable, resilient, and wants to do well with food. They just need you to create the right environment.Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  13. 25

    A Third Way to Feed Your Kids: Beyond Pressure and Permissiveness

    We all want the same things for our kids: to eat well, get the nutrition they need, and have a healthy relationship with food.But how do we actually make that happen?Most parents find themselves on one of two paths, or often bouncing back and forth because neither one feels quite right.You might be trying to help your child eat well by encouraging bites, limiting sweets, or teaching them about "healthy foods." But it's creating tension at meals and you worry you could be passing down negative messages about food.Or maybe you've gone in the opposite direction - because you don't want to make food be a 'thing'. But you worry that you're not supporting your child and helping them get what they need.Here's what I want you to know: there's a third path. One where you get to be the parent and the guide, creating structure and support around food - while still giving your child real freedom and autonomy within that structure.In this episode, I'm walking through:The three different paths parents take when it comes to feeding their kidsWhat each path actually creates - for your child's eating, their relationship with food, and your stress level at homeWhy that third path (the empowered eating environment) will change your meals, your home, and your child's relationship with food long-term.When you understand these different approaches and where you might be stuck, you can finally move toward a way of feeding your family that feels good - and sets your child up for a lifetime of trusting themselves with food.Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  14. 24

    Are You Working Against Your Child's Eating Personality?

    We're going to cut through all the conflicting advice and show you how you can help your child eat well without using pressure or bribes... or getting into power struggles or creating bigger food issues.You've heard the advice: "My kids have to at least try it.""Don't keep it in the house if you don't want them to eat it.""If they don't eat their dinner, no dessert."But when you try these strategies, they either backfire completely - or they seem to work in the moment but you know something doesn't feel right.Here's what most feeding advice gets wrong: it assumes all kids will respond the same way to the same approach. But your strong-willed child, your sensory-sensitive child, your people-pleaser... They'll all react differently.In this episode, we're diving into how your child's personality and natural preferences with food interact with your feeding approach - and why conventional advice often backfires.In this episode, I'm breaking down:The three layers that interact at the table: personality, natural  tendencies with food, and feeding dynamicsReal examples of how the same feeding concern (picky eating, sweets obsession, overeating) can have completely different root causes depending on your childWhy conventional approaches create either rebellion, anxiety, or compliance - but not a healthy relationship with foodWhat we do instead: creating a complete supportive environment where your child can develop their own healthy relationship with foodWhen we understand how these layers interact, we can stop blaming ourselves when advice doesn't work. We can stop thinking our kid is just difficult. And we can start seeing them clearly and responding to what they actually need.Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  15. 23

    The One Thing That Undermines Everything Else You're Doing

    If you're listening to this podcast, you're investing time and energy into changing how you feed your kids. And of course... you want to see it work.That's exactly what we need to talk about today, because this approach will change how your child eats, and you have to stop caring whether it does.In this episode, we're diving into one of the hardest parts of this work: detachment. Detaching from the outcome of what and how your child actually eats. Because when we focus too much on whether they're eating "right" or whether the approach is "working," it backfires.In this episode, I'm breaking down:Why watching too closely for results undermines the approach (and how kids pick up on our energy even when we think we're hiding it)What detachment actually looks like in practice - and what it doesn't meanWhy your child is on their own timeline and we have to trust the processHow this work is layered in its impact and it's not just about what your child is eatingThe bigger picture and it's effects on your child's physical, mental, and emotional healthWhen we can detach from the outcome, it's not only helpful for our kids and their behaviors with food, but it's also freeing.Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  16. 22

    Why Division of Responsibility Isn't Working (And What's Actually Missing)

    Are you familiar with the Division of Responsibility (DOR)?Maybe you've read ALL the Ellyn Satter books. You're trying follow DOR to a tee - you're doing your job and letting your child do their job with food... and it feels like something's still missing.Or maybe DOR is brand new to you or you've heard it mentioned somewhere in your parenting journey.Either way, you're going to love this episode.In this episode, I'm breaking down:What Division of Responsibility is and the research that backs it upWhy DOR can feel rigid, controlling, or impossible to maintain - and that's not your faultWhat DOR is actually missing and why you need moreHow you can use this approach as an overarching approach with other tools and strategiesIf you've been wondering why the framework that's supposed to reduce stress is actually creating more, or why it's just not working, this episode is for you.Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  17. 21

    3 Beliefs You Need to Raise Balanced Eaters During Diet Season

    Diet culture is loudest in January. And it's so easy to feel like we should be doing more, or trying to eat 'better', or do something to change the way we look... when we're inundated with this message EVERYWHERE!In this episode, I'm breaking down three foundational beliefs that will transform how you approach food in your family, and help you hold onto what's important to you when the rest of the world is screaming lose weight, detox, it's time for a new you.We can talk all about tools and strategies (and we do) but what really drives how we navigate food and how our kids end up thinking, feeling, and interacting with it - is deeper than that. These are the three core beliefs we want to adopt as we move into the new year:1. We're Feeding for the Future2. Kids Need Support, Not Control3. Health Is Bigger Than Food, Weight, and ExerciseYour beliefs drive your behavior. Tools and strategies won't work if you're operating from fear or urgency.Reflection: Which belief do you need to focus on right now?Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  18. 20

    7 Lessons I've Learned About Feeding Kids This Year

    As the year comes to a close, many parents naturally start reflecting... what felt good, what felt heavy, and what do they want to change moving into the new year - new systems and routines, projects to work on, changes with the kids...In this episode, I'm breaking down seven lessons or themes that stood out most from recent conversations with parents. We're talking about what actually made the biggest changes with food and how one parent said "Our whole life has changed."You’ll hear why big change rarely comes from one “right” decision, why the overall feel of food in your home matters more than any single moment, and why support, reflection, and community play such a big role in helping families move forward.And spoiler alert: Your child doesn't need to be fixed!As you head into the new year, it’s an invitation to pause and ask:How does food feel right now and how do I want it to feel moving forward?Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  19. 19

    When You're Judged for How You Feed Your Kids

    The holidays often bring more than just parties and sweets... they bring more people, more opinions, and a lot more eyes on how we’re parenting - especially around food.For many parents, this time of year amplifies feelings of judgment around food: comments from grandparents, side-eyes from relatives, comparisons to cousins, or even the internal pressure we place on ourselves when our child eats differently than others.In this episode, we’re talking about why feeding kids can feel so charged during the holidays, how diet culture and family dynamics play a role, and what it really means to feel confident in your approach - even when others don’t understand it.We’ll explore how this work can feel countercultural, why judgment can bring up frustration, anger, sadness, or self-doubt, and how to stay grounded when you’re trying to protect your child’s relationship with food.You’ll learn:Why judgment around food feels especially intense during the holidaysWhy this approach to feeding kids can feel uncomfortable - and why that doesn’t mean it’s wrongHow your own experiences with food growing up can get activated in these momentsThe importance of getting clear on your values and approach with foodPractical, non-confrontational ways to set boundaries or redirect commentsIf you’ve ever left a holiday gathering feeling upset, defensive, or questioning yourself as a parent, this episode is here to remind you: you know what’s best for your family. And you don’t need anyone else’s approval for how you parent around food.Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  20. 18

    Is Letting Kids Eat Whatever They Want During the Holidays Diet Culture in Disguise?

    The holidays are full of sweets, parties, and what some might describe as chaos. It can be an overwhelming time of year, especially for parents, as we try to buy and wrap gifts, attend all the festivities, travel, have family visits... and still maintain our normal parental responsibilities.And while navigating it all, the diet culture messaging is arguably at a high this time of year. From the “be good now so you can indulge later” messaging to cheat days and guilt-free marketing, diet culture subtly (and not-so-subtly) can creep in to how we handling food with our kids.In this episode we're going to identify if and when this mindset is creeping in and how it might influence the way we handle meals and snacks with our kids.You’ll learn:Why some parents feel relaxed while others feel stressed around holiday food - and how diet culture might be influencing both.The difference between a temporary “holiday free pass” and true ease with food.How kids respond to structure - or lack of it - around food during the holidays.Practical ways to maintain a sense of intentionality without pressure, guilt, or the need to “fix it later.”Stories from parents, like Marie, showing how mindset shifts can help kids feel safe and confident around sweets and other foods.If you want to enjoy the holidays without tension, guilt, or stress, while supporting your kids in developing a healthy relationship with food, this episode is for you.Resources & Links Mentioned:Making Sense of Sweets programPrevious episode: Food Is Not a Free-for-All (Episode 3)Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  21. 17

    The Truth About Bedtime Snacks (And Whether You Should Do One)

    Do you ever wonder whether your child really needs a bedtime snack?Is it ruining dinner?Could skipping it mean they won’t sleep because they’re hungry?And honestly… who wants to be back in the kitchen again at 7:30 pm?In today’s episode of The Intentional Table, we’re breaking down:The real pros and cons of offering a bedtime snackWhen it’s helpful—and when it might not beHow to use an evening snack without sabotaging dinner or dragging out bedtime--> And I’m sharing exactly how I handle bedtime snacks in my own familyIf you’re wondering whether Nourish Together might be the support your family needs, send me a DM @nicolecruzrd so we can chat about it!I can't wait to hear from you 💛Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  22. 16

    Navigating the Holidays: Family Comments, 'Picky' Eating, and Too Many Sweets

    First... If you want to raise your child to eat a variety, listen to their body and eat the amount they need, not obsess about or sneak sugar and sweets... and you want to get a step-by-step plan for exactly how to apply these feeding strategies for your family...Our next cohort for Nourish Together is starting in January, and when you join right now, you'll also get holiday support all through December ❤️DM me on Instagram @nicolecruzrd, and let me know that you're interested. We still have a few spots open!The holidays can bring joy, magic… and a lot of food stress.Between endless cookies and sweets, unpredictable schedules, big family gatherings, and well-meaning relatives who love to comment on your child’s eating, it’s no wonder parents feel overwhelmed this time of year.In this episode of The Intentional Table, I’m answering the most common questions parents have about navigating food, gatherings, sweets, structure, and family pressure during the holiday season.If you’ve ever wondered whether you should bring backup food to a holiday meal, how to respond when someone tells your child to “just try a bite,” or how to keep any sense of structure when it feels like a season of endless snacks and grazing... this is for you!You’ll learn practical strategies and scripts you can start using right away so you can support your child, stay grounded, and create a season that feels calmer and more connected around food.You’ll hear:What to do when your child refuses most holiday foodsHow to handle pressure from relatives (like “finish your plate”)Ways to let your child enjoy holiday sweets without feeling like it's spiraling or that you have to be the food policeHow to keep predictable structure when schedules and routines get messyHow to reduce your own stress and pressure so meals feel easier for everyoneBy the end of this episode, you’ll feel more confident navigating holiday meals, sweets, and family dynamics - and you’ll have simple tools to help your child feel safe, supported, and flexible with food.Let's have this season be a time of connection, trust, and joyful moments together ❤️Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  23. 15

    Raise a Balanced Eater: The Pieces You're Missing

    First... If you want to raise your child to eat a variety, listen to their body and eat the amount they need, not obsess about or sneak sugar and sweets... and you want to get a step-by-step plan for exactly how to apply these feeding strategies for your family...Our next cohort for Nourish Together is starting in January, and when you join right now, you'll also get holiday support all through December ❤️DM me on Instagram @nicolecruzrd, and let me know that you're interested. We still have a few spots open!In this episode, you're going to hear the step-by-step process to raise your child to eat in a balanced way and get the nutrition they need... without creating guilt or shame. We're breaking it all down so you understand the core principles you need to apply to create an Empowered Eating Environment - and how we often miss pieces that leave us feeling like it's not 'working'.If this resonates, I'm also sharing how you can get more support inside Nourish Together for our next 8 week group program. It will help you lay the foundations to best support your child to eat well and have a healthy relationship with food while reducing stress and chaos for everyone.Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  24. 14

    When Your Child's Eating Triggers You

    Before you dive in! If you're looking for more...The next round of NOURISH TOGETHER is opening soon >>> Join the WAITLIST to learn more 🩵Do you find yourself reacting... sometimes even before you realize it... when your child takes another bite of pizza, skips their vegetables, or reaches for a sweet?You’re not alone. Most parents struggle with what or how their child is eating, and it often triggers strong emotions tied to our own childhood experiences, cultural beliefs, and fears about what our kids “should” eat.In this episode of The Intentional Table, we dive into why those gut reactions happen, how subtle and obvious reactions can shape your child’s relationship with food, and, most importantly, what to do insteadYou’ll learn practical strategies so you can respond from a place of calm and trust your child, stay grounded, and help them build a healthy relationship with food.You’ll hear:Why tension and reactivity can backfire, even when you mean wellHow your subtle cues (tone, body language, “side eyes”) communicate pressureWhy shame doesn’t work - and how it impacts your child’s eating and self-trustHow to pause, shift focus, and reset during challenging momentsGrounding techniques and mantras to help you feel calm and present at the tableWhy detaching from the outcome is key to building trust and long-term healthy habitsBy the end of this episode, you’ll have tools to reduce mealtime tension, respond rather than react, and support your child in developing curiosity, confidence, and flexibility with food.Because their relationship with food - and yours - deserves peace and connection.Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  25. 13

    How to Encourage Your Child With Food... without pressure or bribes

    Have you ever said something like, “Good job eating your broccoli!” or “Just two more bites and then you can have dessert”?It probably felt supportive, encouraging, or like you were helping your child eat well.But what if those well-meaning bribes, praise, and rewards are actually making mealtimes harder and disconnecting your child from their own body cues?In this episode of The Intentional Table, we’re looking at why praise and rewards seem like they work in the moment, but often backfire in the long run. You’ll learn how these approaches can create pressure (even when they feel positive), increase a child’s fixation on dessert or certain foods, and shift eating into something they do for approval instead of for hunger, curiosity, and satisfaction.Most importantly, we’ll talk about what to do instead - so your child can eat with confidence, connection, and internal motivation over time.You’ll hear:How praise and rewards can turn eating into a performanceWhy this can disconnect kids from hunger, fullness, and satisfactionThe subtle ways pressure shows up, even when we don’t think we’re pressuringWhy dessert and “finish your food” become power strugglesWhat to say instead of “good job” (simple, neutral language you can use today)How to support exploration without pushing or motivatingWhat actually helps kids become confident, curious eaters in the long-termBy the end, you’ll know how to encourage your child with food without pressure... so meals feel calmer, more connected, and more enjoyable for everyone. And no, you don’t have to be perfect. Awareness creates change.Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  26. 12

    The 5 Biggest Sugar Myths (and What They’re Doing to Our Kids)

    We’ve all heard it: “Sugar is toxic.” “It’s addictive.” “It makes kids hyper.”It’s no wonder parents feel confused and worried when it comes to sweets.But what if the problem isn’t sugar itself… it’s the fear surrounding it?In this episode of The Intentional Table, I’m busting five of the most common myths about sugar… and showing you how that fear and restriction can actually fuel the very imbalance we’re trying to avoid.You’ll learn what the research really says, how to create a calm, predictable environment around sweets, and what actually helps kids develop a healthy, balanced relationship with them over time.You’ll hear:Why “sugar addiction” isn’t what most people think (and what’s really driving the feeling of being out of control)The truth about claims that sugar is “toxic” or “poison”Why kids seem to go wild around sweets - and what’s actually happeningHow restriction fuels obsession, and what to do insteadWhat your real job is when it comes to helping your child navigate sugar (hint: it’s not teaching them to fear it)By the end, you’ll understand why sugar isn’t the enemy — fear is, and how to help your child build a peaceful, trusting relationship with sweets that lasts a lifetime.If you’re wondering where to start, grab my FREE guide- My Kid Has a Sweet ToothWant to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  27. 11

    Too Much Sugar Isn't the Issue

    When it feels like candy is everywhere this time of year—trunk-or-treats, class parties, after-practice bags—it can start to feel overwhelming. You might be okay with your child having some candy, but when it’s constant, it’s hard to know how to handle it without going overboard or setting up food battles.In this episode of The Intentional Table, I’m sharing exactly how to navigate Halloween candy so your child can enjoy it - without guilt, shame, sneaking, or power struggles.We’ll talk about what to avoid saying or doing, what to do instead, and how to handle all that candy after Halloween night in a way that builds trust, not tension.You’ll hear:What not to do on Halloween night (and why it matters more than you think)How to talk about candy without guilt, judgment, or restrictionWhy letting kids have more access actually helps them eat in balanceWhat to do with all the candy afterward (and what to skip)How to handle special situations, like allergiesBy the end, you’ll have a clear plan to make Halloween candy fun again - for you and your kids - and to help your child enjoy it without it being an obsession or preoccupation.Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  28. 10

    My Kid Only Wants to Eat 'Junk' (and what you can do about it)

    If it feels like all your child wants to eat are snacks, sweets, or packaged foods - and no matter what you do, they refuse vegetables or other foods you think they need…You’re not alone, and there's nothing wrong with your child. In fact, this is completely normal.But that doesn’t mean you have to give up... or resort to forcing them to eat veggies (or cut out “junk” altogether). Often, what’s happening is a combination of natural tendencies, learned behaviors, and the environment around food - all things you can influence.In this episode, we break down why your child may be gravitating toward certain foods, how your words and actions around food influence them, and what you can do differently to help them explore, enjoy, and actually want to eat other foods.You’ll learn:Why kids tend to want more processed snacks and sweetsHow you label foods can make kids want them even more... or make them not want things like veggies and proteinPractical strategies you can apply to help your child eat a more balanced diet on their ownIf you’ve ever wondered:“Why does my child only want snacks or sweets?”“How can I help them eat 'better' or make 'better choices'?"“Do I just need to get rid of 'junk' altogether?”…then this episode is for you.You’ll walk away with a clear framework for shifting the environment, your mindset, and your approach so your child can eat in a balanced way while feeling safe, confident, and trusted around food.Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  29. 9

    Why Your Feeding Strategies Aren't Working (and How to Fix It)

    If you’ve tried all the things... read the books, followed the advice on social media, tried recommendations from your pediatrician or best friend - yet mealtimes still feel tense or unpredictable, or you're concerned about what or how your child's eating...You’re not necessarily doing it wrong - you’re likely just missing a few key pieces.In this episode, we're bringing everything together to show you why the feeding strategies you’ve been trying might not be working - and what’s missing to make them click.You’ll learn about the three essential elements every child needs for a healthy, confident relationship with food and how they come together to create an empowered eating environment so your child can eat well and feel good about food.If you’ve ever wondered:“Why won't my child try anything new?”“Why do sweets feel so out of control?”“What boundaries do I hold without creating power struggles?”…then this episode is for you.You’ll walk away with a clear picture of what makes feeding work and how to build the environment your child needs to eat in a balanced way without creating guilt or shame.Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  30. 8

    What's Really Behind Power Struggles with Food

    Does your child eat in a way that feels out of balance?Maybe they don't want to try anything new and stick to the same few safe foods.Or they would eat and eat and eat if you let them. Or maybe they seem obsessed with sweets - like that's all they want.Chances are - they're eating reactively.It's not on purpose. They're not trying to be difficult. Reactive eating is often subconscious and literally, a reaction. But it can create a lot of power struggles and stress around food.So today we're diving into what that actually means, why it happens, and what kids really need to be able to eat a variety, listen to their body cues, and eat the amount they need.And the best part is - this isn't JUST about feeding our kids to eat in a balanced way now. It truly lays the foundation for lifelong healthy habits and behaviors with food. Because remember: we're feeding for the future!Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  31. 7

    All food is not equal

    When you’re raising kids, it feels natural to want to teach them about “healthy" or "better" choices or to guide them with categories like sometimes foods, growing foods, or good vs. bad foods.While those labels are well-intentioned, they can create worry, guilt, or even rebellion around food... and that disrupts our kids’ ability to trust themselves and eat in balance.In this episode of The Intentional Table, I’m breaking down the concept of neutrality when it comes to food. I’ll share how our words shape the way kids see food and themselves, why judgment backfires, and what to do instead.You’ll hear:Why kids are especially vulnerable to black-and-white food labelsThe real consequences of calling foods “good” or “bad” (fear, guilt, rebellion, restriction)A personal story about my son in kindergarten and how a “pizza is unhealthy” lesson created unnecessary stressThe kinds of language that create judgment (and why it doesn’t work)Practical ways to talk about food neutrally - using food names, groups, and qualities instead of arbitrary categoriesThe three key areas where neutrality matters most in everyday lifeBy the end of this conversation, you’ll see how shifting your language builds trust, reduces food anxiety, and lays the foundation for your child to enjoy a variety of foods without shame or fear.Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  32. 6

    It's not a food free-for-all

    What does it really mean to give kids structure with food… without controlling them?In this episode of The Intentional Table Podcast, we’re unpacking one of the biggest misconceptions parents have about feeding kids: if you remove pressure and 'getting' them to eat a certain way, it’s a free-for-all.But the truth is, kids thrive when they feel both supported and like they have autonomy and control... and that comes from structure, not pressure.We’ll talk about what structure actually looks like (hint: it’s not a rigid meal schedule), why it’s so important for kids to have comfort and trust with food, and how parents can provide leadership without slipping into control. You’ll also hear how the right kind of boundaries benefit you as a parent, bringing more ease and predictability to meals.By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clearer picture of how to create a framework that works for your family, builds your child’s confidence with food, and makes mealtimes feel more peaceful.What you’ll hear in this episode:Why “no control” doesn’t mean “no structure”The difference between supporting and controlling kids with foodReal-life examples of how kids act without structure (and why it’s normal)What structure actually looks likeHow flexibility and responsiveness fit into the bigger pictureWhy unlimited choices can create anxiety and overwhelm instead of freedomHow structure builds safety, trust, and comfort with food... and makes mealtimes easier for the whole familyWant to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  33. 5

    What the heck is a relationship with food?

    What does it really mean to have a healthy relationship with food?In this second episode of The Intentional Table Podcast, we’re digging deeper into what’s truly at the root of how kids (and adults) eat. While it’s easy to focus on what’s on the plate or how our kids behave at mealtimes, what really drives those choices is their relationship with food... the thoughts, feelings, and beliefs they’re building every day.We’ll explore why this foundation matters more than the broccoli or the cookies, how it shapes both eating habits and self-esteem, and what you can start shifting now to help your child feel calm, capable, and confident around food for the long term.What you'll hear in this episode:Why eating behaviors are really just symptoms of a deeper relationship with foodHow pressure, guilt, and rigid rules can backfire (even when we mean well)Why it's not ACTUALLY about 'picky' eating or 'over' eatingThe triangle model that explains how feelings, behaviors, and food choices connectA powerful understanding of how our relationships with people mimic our relationship with foodReal-life stories from parents who saw their kids’ eating shift when they focused on the relationship firstWhat a healthy food relationship actually looks like... and why it matters more than their bites of broccoli or how many cupcakes they ateWant to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  34. 4

    Flipping the Script on Healthy Eating

    What does it really mean to raise a healthy eater?In this first episode of The Intentional Table Podcast, we’re diving into a new way of thinking about food and nutrition. Instead of obsessing over grams of protein, cutting out sugar, or following rigid rules, we’ll explore why 'healthy' eating isn't just about nutrition - and how a healthy relationship with food is the foundation that allows kids to thrive... and parents to feel more at ease too.What you'll hear in the episode:Why nutrition is only part of the picture (and the other factors that matter just as much)The deeper influences behind what and how we eatWhat it looks like when a child has a positive, shame-free relationship with foodCommon patterns that can signal your child might need a different approachHow shifting your approach can ease stress at the table and foster more joy in your homeWant to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

  35. 3

    Welcome to the Intentional Table

    Welcome to The Intentional Table, the podcast that helps parents raise kids who eat well and feel good about food. In this trailer, you’ll get a sneak peek of what’s to come — practical tools, mindset shifts, and compassionate strategies to guide your family. Together, we’ll break the cycles of food guilt and control so your child can grow up with a positive, empowered relationship with food. Subscribe now so you don’t miss the first full episodes!” Want to connect? Send us a text!CONNECT with Nicole:- Instagram: @nicolecruzRD- Book a FREE Eating Alignment Call with Nicole to learn more about our approach and how we can work together: Eating Alignment CallSUBSCRIBE & REVIEW:If you loved this episode, it would mean so much for you to follow, subscribe, share, or leave a review.Your support helps us reach more conscious and loving parents who need these insight!Thank you for tuning in and see you next week!

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Feeding kids isn’t just about what’s on the plate - it’s about raising them to feel confident, capable, and at peace with food and their bodies.The Intentional Table Podcast is here to help you break the cycles of guilt, shame,  and mealtime stress so you can raise kids who eat well and feel good about it.Hosted by Nicole Cruz, a registered dietitian and mom of three who has coached thousands of parents, this podcast gives you the tools, structure, and mindset shifts to create a positive, empowered eating environment at home.With guidance, compassion, and strategies that really work, you’ll feel more confident and less stressed while supporting your kids through 'picky' eating, 'overeating', struggles with sweets, and everything in between.

HOSTED BY

Nicole Cruz, MS, RDN

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