In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks with Pam Lobley—author, columnist, mother of two, and former actress and comedian—about parenting in an age of pressure, over-scheduling, and digital distractions.
Lobley shares her journey from feeling overwhelmed by the constant demands of modern parenting to making a bold decision: giving her children an entirely unstructured summer. No camps. No rigid plans. Just time to be bored, curious, and free.
What began as a simple pause from the chaos became what she refers to as a “summer of rot”—and ultimately transformed her family’s life.
The conversation explores how slowing down can lead to greater emotional well-being, stronger family bonds, and a more balanced approach to raising children today.
Key Takeaways:
Kids need unstructured time to grow emotionally and mentally
Doing less helps parents and children reduce stress and anxiety
Boredom can lead to self-discovery, problem-solving, and creativity
Prioritizing connection over perfection creates a healthier family dynamic
Success isn’t measured by a packed calendar—it’s found in joy, rest, and presence
PAM LOBLEY
Writer
Columnist
Copywriter
Author
Former actress
Former comedian
Mother of two
“I think seeing directly that my kids were not happy and when I looked more closely too at their behaviour, I was able to see there was a lot of pushback, There was a lot of whining. There was a lot of trouble getting out the door. There was a lot of just crankiness, non compliance. And I think it’s because they were just too stressed out. And I totally could see that now.”