Full-Tilt Parenting: Strategies, Insights, and Connection for Parents Raising Neurodivergent Children

Today we’re diving into the world of empaths and highly sensitive people—what it means to be one, what makes it complicated, and why it’s also such a gift. My guest, psychiatrist, author, and empath Dr. Judith Orloff, shares her own journey as a highly sensitive child and how it shaped her work as a psychiatrist. We talk about the science behind sensitivity, how to recognize a highly sensitive child, and why self-care and co-regulation are so critical for both parents and kids. Judith also touches on bullying, sensory overload, and the strategies empaths can use to thrive—and she introduces her beautiful new children’s book, The Highly Sensitive Rabbit, created to help kids understand and embrace their sensitivity.   About Judith Orloff, MD Judith Orloff, MD, is a psychiatrist who serves on the UCLA Psychiatric Clinical Faculty and an empath. She is a New York Times bestselling author whose most recent books are The Genius of Empathy (2024) and The Empath’s Survival Guide (2017). Specializing in treating highly sensitive people in her private practice, she also offers Empathy Training Programs to organizations. She has spoken at the American Psychiatric Association, Google, Fortune’s Powerful Women’s Summit, and TEDx. She has appeared on The Today Show, CNN, PBS, and NPR. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, O, The Oprah Magazine, USA Today, Teen Vogue, and Scientific American. Things you'll learn from this episode How Dr. Orloff blends traditional psychiatric expertise with her lived experience as an empath Why empaths and highly sensitive individuals often struggle with sensory overload and emotional stress from others How co-regulation between parents and children supports emotional health and resilience Why parents need to advocate for highly sensitive kids in schools, especially in the face of bullying How recognizing the gifts of empathy—like deep connection to nature and beauty—helps children embrace who they are Why self-empathy and intentional self-care practices are essential for empaths to thrive Resources mentioned Dr. Judith Orloff’s website The Highly Sensitive Rabbit by Dr. Judith Orloff The Empath's Survival Guide: Life Strategies for Sensitive People by Dr. Judith Orloff Thriving as an Empath by Dr. Judith Orloff Dr. Judith Orloff on Facebook Dr. Judith Orloff on X Dr. Judith Orloff on LinkedIn Dr. Judith Orloff on YouTube Dr. Judith Orloff on Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Devorah Heitner, a digital media and technology expert and the author of "Screenwise" talks about how parents can mentor their kids to develop a healthy relationship with screens (phones, online games, and more). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today I’m talking with writer and memoirist Nefertiti Austin about her journey parenting a neurodivergent child and the many realizations that come with it, which she writes about in her new book, She’s Just Spirited: Parenting a Neurodivergent Child and the Diagnosis That Changes Everything, continues that deeply honest exploration, this time through the lens of raising a differently wired child. In our conversation, Nefertiti shares the challenges and gifts of navigating labels, the role of educators in her family’s story, and the ways adoption has shaped her parenting experience. We also talk about what it means to adapt as parents—to let go of old visions and dream new dreams that embrace our children’s unique paths.   About Nefertiti Austin Nefertiti Austin is a writer and memoirist. She wrote about the erasure of diverse voices in motherhood in the critically acclaimed Motherhood So White: A Memoir of Race, Gender and Parenting in America (2019) and her work has appeared in the New York Times, Washington Post, Huffington Post, The Nation, Romper, Parents Magazine, and many other publications. She was the subject of an article on race and adoption in The Atlantic and appeared on numerous shows, podcasts, and radio programs, including The Today Show and multiple NPR outlets. Her newest book is She’s Just Spirited: Parenting a Neurodivergent Child and the Diagnosis That Changes Everything (2025). Nefertiti is the proud adoptive mother of two children and lives in Los Angeles. Things you'll learn from this episode  How Nefertiti’s parenting journey began through adoption and was reshaped by raising a neurodivergent child Why using positive terms like “spirited” instead of negative labels protects children’s sense of self, especially for children of color How adoption adds unique layers of complexity to parenting neurodivergent kids and challenges assumptions about nurture Why seeking assessments requires patience, persistence, and deep understanding from both parents and educators How parents can move toward acceptance by dreaming new dreams for their children while navigating overwhelm and trial and error Why bridging the gap between parents and educators is key to creating supportive environments for neurodivergent kids Resources mentioned Nefertiti Austin’s website She’s Just Spirited: Parenting a Neurodivergent Child and the Diagnosis That Changes Everything by Nefertiti Austin Motherhood So White: A Memoir of Race, Gender and Parenting in America by Nefertiti Austin Nefertiti on Instagram Nefertiti on Facebook Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Becca Wertheim, a second-grade teacher at an inclusion school in North Carolina, talks about her experience as a teacher meeting the individual educational needs of a group of students with diverse learning styles, and her insight for parents who are looking for better support and communication with the teachers in their children’s lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today we’re talking about dyslexia—what it is, what it isn’t, and how parents can best support their children after a diagnosis. My guest is Rebecca Bush, a Certified Academic Language Therapist, Licensed Dyslexia Therapist, and founder of Lead Changes, a private practice that supports children with dyslexia, as well as the author of the new book Dyslexia and Your Newly Diagnosed Child, a compassionate, step-by-step guide for families just beginning this journey. In our conversation, Rebecca shares the myths and misconceptions parents often encounter, and the critical importance of early intervention. We talk about the early signs to look for, how language and advocacy shape outcomes, and the support systems that can make all the difference. Rebecca also offers practical, reassuring advice for parents navigating the emotional and practical realities of raising a child with dyslexia. About Rebecca Bush Rebecca Bush is a Certified Academic Language Therapist, a Licensed Dyslexia Therapist, and the founder of Lead Changes, a private practice that supports children with dyslexia and the families who love them. With nearly 20 years of experience in education, including roles as a classroom teacher, literacy leader, and founding director, Rebecca brings a rare blend of deep expertise and grounded empathy to every conversation. Rebecca specializes in helping parents navigate the emotional and practical journey after a dyslexia diagnosis, offering evidence-based strategies, advocacy tools, and encouragement that’s both real and reassuring. She’s also the author of Dyslexia and Your Newly Diagnosed Child, a compassionate, step-by-step guide for families just beginning the path. Beyond her work in literacy, Rebecca is trained in equine-assisted services and believes deeply in the power of movement, connection, and trust-building as tools for emotional resilience. She’s known for keeping things honest, hopeful, and jargon-free, because parenting doesn’t come with a manual, but it should come with support. Things you'll learn from this episode How Rebecca’s work as a dyslexia therapist helps parents understand the complexities of language acquisition in reading and writing Why early intervention and structured literacy approaches like Orton-Gillingham are critical for supporting children with dyslexia How parents often grapple with feelings of overwhelm and guilt, especially given the genetic component of dyslexia Why community, advocacy, and resources like Dyslexia and Your Newly Diagnosed Child are invaluable for families on this journey How dyslexia can overlap with other learning differences such as dysgraphia and dyscalculia Why understanding how the brain processes language is key to effectively addressing dyslexia Resources mentioned Rebecca’s website, Lead Changes Dyslexia and Your Newly Diagnosed Child: Parenting Essentials, Tips and Strategies to Help Your Child by Rebecca Bush Free Trust Your Parent Gut Quiz Rebecca on Instagram Orton-Gillingham Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

My guest for this episode, Dr Jody Carrington, a clinical psychologist, speaker, and author based in Alberta, Canada, has spent most of her career working with children and families who have experienced trauma, and has learned that kids can only be as okay as the adults in their lives are okay. The result of her insights is the wonderful book Kids These Days: A Game Plan for (Re)Connecting With Those We Teach, Lead & Love. Jody offers powerfully grounded insights and strategies for parents, caregivers, and teachers to connect with and show up for our kids and each other. Things You'll Learn from This Episode: Why it’s so important that kids have meaningful connections with adults in their lives, including (and perhaps especially) teachers The importance of showing emotional regulation to kids (and why emotional regulation can’t be learned without dysregulation) What is a “light up moment” How labels are often relied upon in schools to provide context but miss the actual story Jody’s answer to the question: “Is it ever too late” with older kids who may have experienced trauma or have really tricky conduct Why and how our real power comes from connecting and supporting each other Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Debbie Reber and Zach Morris answer a listener's question about how parents can support their kids' search for meaning and connection while navigating their own struggles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today we’re diving into the ways our own trauma can shape how we show up as parents, and how we can begin to break those inherited cycles with Dr. Robyn Koslowitz, a clinical child psychologist, trauma treatment expert, and author of Post-Traumatic Parenting: Break the Cycle, Become the Parent You Always Wanted to Be. In our conversation, Robyn shares insights from her book, including the concept of “secret ACEs,” the “trauma app” that can override our instincts, and the different subtypes of post-traumatic parenting. We also talk about how to recognize our triggers, the importance of self-care, and the role of the inner child in this work. Robyn’s approach blends research, clinical wisdom, and lived experience, and she offers practical hacks for navigating the challenges of parenting when trauma is part of our story. About Dr. Robyn Koslowitz Dr. Robyn Koslowitz is a clinical child psychologist, trauma treatment expert, and author of Post-Traumatic Parenting: Break the Cycle, Become the Parent You Always Wanted to Be. As the founder of the Post-Traumatic Parenting model, Dr. Koslowitz helps parents break free from inherited patterns and become the parents their children—and their inner child—need. Her core message is simple yet profound: Your inner child can’t raise a child, but raising your real-world child can heal your inner child. Dr. Koslowitz combines research-backed tools, clinical insights, and lived experience to help parents transform trauma into growth. As she says, Adulting is hard. Adulting is especially hard if you never childed.And parenting? That’s adulting on steroids. Her “trauma app” metaphor has reached thousands, empowering parents to recognize and rewrite the patterns that no longer serve them—or their children.   Things you'll learn from this episode How trauma can shape parenting by acting as a mirror, map, and motivator for healing Why hidden or “secret” ACEs accumulate and impact the way parents show up with their children How children often reveal a parent’s triggers, creating opportunities for growth and repair Why post-traumatic parenting can manifest in patterns like paralysis, perfectionism, or disengagement How healing begins with befriending our instincts and using the AIM method of acceptance, integration, and meaning-making Why self-care and play are essential tools for connection, regulation, and attunement in parenting Resources mentioned Dr. Robyn Koslowitz’s website Post-Traumatic Parenting: Break the Cycle, Become the Parent You Always Wanted to Be by Dr. Robyn Koslowitz Post-Traumatic Parenting Podcast Dr. Robyn Koslowitz on Instagram Dr. Robyn Koslowitz on LinkedIn Dr. Robyn Koslowitz on Threads Dr. Robyn Koslowitz’s YouTube channel Erik Erikson Georgie Wisen-Vincent on Unlocking Our Kids’ Emotional Balance and Resilience with The Way of Play (Tilt Parenting podcast) The Way of Play: Using Little Moments of Big Connection to Raise Kind and Confident Kids by Tina Payne Bryson and Georgie Wisen-Vincent Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’re the parent of a differently wired kid with a diagnosed learning disability, you likely have had experience with Individualized Education Plans, otherwise known as IEPs. And if this is you, my hunch is you have some feelings about IEPs and the whole process — the stresses, the unknowns, the fact that it might feel like you have to understand a completely different language just to get the services and supports your child needs and deserves in schools. Occupational therapist Beth Liesenfeld, the woman behind a company, podcast, and resource called The IEP Lab, joins us to answer your questions around how parents can better prepare for an IEP meeting, what makes a good IEP, and how we can go about making changes on an IEP if we realize the accommodations aren’t being effective or if a school isn’t following through in the way the IEP outlines. Beth Liesenfeld, MOT, OTR/L is an occupational therapist passionate about providing “insider” information of the school’s process and culture to parents in order to increase collaboration between parents and school staff! Her company, The IEP Lab, provides online workshops and courses as well as produces The Parent IEP Lab Podcast.  Things You'll Learn from This Episode: What parents actually need to know before they go into an IEP meeting The criteria for designing an effective and supportive IEP The intention behind the goals written into any IEP, and how to create goals that lead to hoped-for outcomes What parents can do if their children’s school doesn’t follow through on the accommodations provided in their child’s IEP How to include accommodations for students who are struggling with school refusal and therefore may not be meeting attendance requirements What the IDEA says about seeking an IEP for twice-exceptional children who may be performing “adequately” but aren’t reaching their potential Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode I’m talking with Julie Green, author of the memoir Motherness, a powerful exploration of generational autism, parenthood, and radical acceptance. Julie, who was late-diagnosed herself and is raising an autistic child, takes us inside her journey of self-discovery and diagnosis, and we talk about the emotional complexities of coming to understand our own neurodivergence while parenting neurodivergent kids. We explore the healing power of writing, the importance of storytelling and compassion, and the challenges many families like ours face along the way. Julie’s memoir is a testament to these shared experiences, and this conversation is a deeply honest look at what it means to parent—and to live—with radical acceptance. About Julie Green Julie Green is the author of Motherness, a memoir about generational autism, parenthood, and radical acceptance, released by ECW Press in September 2025. Her writing has appeared in the Washington Post, HuffPost, Parents, The Globe and Mail, Chatelaine, Today’s Parent, and more. She has been featured on CTV, BBC Radio, Global News, Sirius XM, and other media outlets, and was a finalist for the CBC Nonfiction Prize in 2024. Through her platform The Autistic Mom, Julie shares her lived experience as a late-diagnosed autistic woman raising an autistic child. Things you'll learn from this episode  How Julie’s decade-long journey to understanding her neurodivergence was shaped by limited representation for autistic women Why writing became an essential tool for Julie to process her experiences and emotions How receiving a formal diagnosis brought relief and clarity to her life story Why Julie’s memoir Motherness shines a light on the complexities of parenting an autistic child while navigating her own identity How practicing self-compassion and protecting her child’s privacy are central to Julie’s storytelling Why community, connection, and embracing one’s identity remain vital for neurodivergent individuals and families Resources mentioned Motherness virtual book launch on September 23 (free registration via EventBrite) Julie Green’s website Motherness: A Memoir of Generational Autism, Parenthood, and Radical Acceptance by Julie Green Julie’s Substack, The Autistic Mom The Electricity of Every Living Thing: A Woman’s Walk in the Wild to Find Her Way Home by Katherine May Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times by Katherine May Katherine May and the Electricity of Every Living Thing (Tilt Parenting podcast) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Amanda Morin of Understood joins Debbie for a special back-to-school episode to help families prepare for easing into the coming school year with as much confidence and serenity as possible. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I’m thrilled to share this conversation with Dr. Stephen Porges and Karen Onderko about the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), a therapeutic approach grounded in Stephen’s groundbreaking polyvagal theory. Stephen, a Distinguished University Scientist and originator of the polyvagal theory, has spent decades helping us understand how our nervous system shapes behavior, connection, and healing. Karen, who was instrumental in bringing SSP from the lab into clinical practice, has been a tireless advocate for expanding access to polyvagal-informed care around the world. In this episode, we dive into the origins of SSP, the science behind it, and what makes it such a powerful tool for supporting emotional regulation—especially for people navigating trauma and neurodivergence. Stephen and Karen share stories from real-life applications of the protocol, explain how co-regulation plays a central role, and highlight the many ways SSP can foster connection and resilience. Whether you’re new to polyvagal theory or already familiar, this is a hopeful and inspiring conversation about what’s possible when we work with the nervous system to support healing. About Dr. Stephen W. Porges Dr. Stephen W. Porges is the originator of the Polyvagal Theory, a theory that emphasizes the importance of physiological state in the expression of behavioral, mental, and health problems. He is the creator of a music-based intervention, the Safe and Sound Protocol ™. In collaboration with Anthony Gorry, he co-created a Sonocea® Enhanced acoustic technology, engineered to support homeostatic functions and embedded in the Rest and Restore Protocol™. With Karen Onderko, Deb Dana, and Randall Redfield, he is a cofounder of the Polyvagal Institute. He has authored several books, including the Polyvagal Perspectives: Interventions, Practices, and Strategies (2024). He has coauthored Safe and Sound: A Polyvagal Approach for Connection, Change, and Healing (2025) with Karen Onderko. About Karen Onderko Karen Onderko is a passionate advocate for advancing the understanding and application of polyvagal principles to improve care, connection, and acceptance among people. She played an important role in bringing SSP from the laboratory to the clinical world, conducting the initial testing, developing the training, and supporting the SSP provider community.  Together with Dr. Porges, she has written a book about SSP titled Safe and Sound: A Polyvagal Approach to Connection, Change and Healing. Regularly witnessing the transformative power of a polyvagal-informed approach, she is eager to support the promotion of education and access to PVT for people in diverse communities throughout the world. Karen is a founding board member of the Polyvagal Institute.​ Things you'll learn from this episode  How the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) draws on polyvagal theory to support nervous system regulation Why melodic voices and filtered music can help calm the body and mind How SSP offers a non-invasive, evidence-based option for individuals dealing with trauma and anxiety Why co-regulation is a key part of making SSP therapy effective How real-life case studies show powerful transformations when SSP is used, often alongside other therapies Why the ultimate goal of SSP is creating greater flexibility in the nervous system’s response to stress Resources mentioned Dr. Stephen Porges’ website Polyvagal Institute Karen Onderko (at PVI) Safe and Sound: A Polyvagal Approach for Connection, Change, and Healing by Stephen Porges, PhD and Karen Onderko Polyvagal Theory: Current Status, Clinical Applications, and Future Directions Randall Redfield (at PVI) Doreen Hunt (at Unyte) Safe and Sound Protocol (at Unyte) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Author, youth advocate, and co-founder of PEN (Parent Education Network) Dewey Rosetti talks about her new book, "Bright Kids Who Struggle in School" and teaching from a strengths-based approach. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today we’re diving into a topic that doesn’t get nearly enough attention in parenting spaces—neurodiversity-affirming nutrition. My guest is Naureen Hunani, a Montreal-based family nutritionist, pediatric dietitian, and mom of two who brings both professional expertise and lived experience to this work. Naureen is passionate about helping families create a positive, shame-free relationship with food, using a non-diet, weight-inclusive approach that focuses as much on the feeding environment and language around food as on what’s on the plate. In our conversation, Naureen shares her personal journey and her model of neurodiversity-affirming care, which is rooted in inclusion, acceptance, and trauma-informed practices. We talk about the unique challenges neurodivergent children can face around feeding, how societal pressures can complicate the picture, and why trusting our children’s needs is such a powerful step. Naureen also debunks common myths and offers practical ways to support our kids—and ourselves—through a more compassionate, individualized approach to eating. About Naureen Hunani Naureen Hunani is a Montreal-based family nutritionist, pediatric dietitian, and proud mom of two incredible children. As both a professional and a parent, she understands firsthand the challenges of feeding kids and is passionate about offering practical, easy-to-follow nutrition and feeding guidance that builds parents’ confidence rather than triggering panic, guilt, or shame. With a deep belief that early experiences with food and the feeding environment shape lifelong eating habits, Naureen is dedicated to helping children and adults cultivate a positive relationship with food and their bodies. She takes a non-diet, weight-inclusive approach to nutrition and health, focusing not only on the food itself but also on attitudes toward food, the eating environment, and the language we use around it. She encourages investing time in meal preparation and involving children in every step—from grocery shopping to cooking. A member of l’Ordre Professionnel des Diététistes du Québec, Naureen continually expands her expertise through seminars, workshops, and advanced courses. She also takes pride in mentoring and training other professionals in the field. When she’s not working, Naureen enjoys spending time with friends and family, listening to audiobooks, and exploring nature on long walks. Things you'll learn from this episode How Naureen’s personal parenting experiences shaped her neurodiversity-affirming approach to nutrition Why neurodivergent children often face hidden or misunderstood feeding challenges How acceptance, community, and unlearning societal pressures can support healthier family food dynamics Why respecting each child’s unique relationship with food is critical to avoiding harm and confusion How neurodiversity-affirming, anti-oppressive care benefits all children, not just those with diagnoses Why trusting children’s communication about their needs is essential for building positive food relationships   Resources mentioned Naureen Hunani’s website RDs for Neurodiversity A Conversation with Zoe Bisbing About ARFID and Neurodivergence (Full-Tilt Parenting) Zoë Bisbing’s website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fitness instructor, ADHD counselor, and author Gabriel Villarreal talks about how exercise is "medicine" for kids with ADHD, autism, and more, and how to get kids motivated to exercise. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this Parent Lean In episode, Debbie is joined by parent coach Margaret Webb to answer a listener's question about a challenge so many parents face—when your child seems to hold it together at school, only to fall apart at home. We get into what might be going on under the surface, including masking, the toll it takes, and how things like routines, 504 plans, and even spoon theory can help. We also explore ways to support smoother transitions from school to home and share ideas for helping your child conserve and replenish their energy throughout the day. In this special Parent Lean In episode, I’m talking with Margaret Webb about a question I hear often—how can we support our neurodivergent kids in connecting with neurotypical peers, especially when social skills don’t quite align? We unpack one listener’s situation with her sweet, social autistic son and talk about managing our own worries as parents, scaffolding playdates so they feel more successful, and finding the right playmate fit. It’s all about creating safe, supportive opportunities for connection—without putting too much pressure on anyone involved.   Things You'll Learn from This Episode:  Why understanding the unique challenges faced by parents of neurodivergent kids is essential for developing flexible, responsive parenting strategies How tools like 504 plans and consistent routines can support smoother transitions and reduce stress for neurodivergent children Why introducing concepts like spoon theory and early conversations about neurodiversity helps children better understand and advocate for their needs How recognizing and supporting your child’s masking behaviors can lead to greater emotional safety and authenticity Why identifying flow activities and creating simple transition rituals can help children regulate and recharge throughout the day How encouraging experimentation in parenting and promoting self-advocacy in kids fosters resilience and long-term independence Resources Mentioned: Dr. Mona Delahooke on the Power of Brain Body Parenting (Tilt Parenting podcast) Autum Romano on the Safe & Sound Protocol (Tilt Parenting podcast) Safe and Sound Protocol Autism Level Up The Autistic Burnout Workbook: Your Guide to Your Personal Recovery Plan by Dr. Megan Anna Neff Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this conversation, I talk with child behavior and adoption expert Bryan Post about how trauma, stress, and fear can shape the way our kids behave—and how we respond as parents. Bryan shares powerful insights about what’s really going on beneath the surface when kids are acting out, especially in families with adopted or foster children. We dive into the difference between parenting from love versus fear, how oxytocin plays a role in connection and regulation, and what it takes to break out of reactive cycles and create a more peaceful, nurturing home.  About Bryan Post Bryan Post is a leading expert in child behavior, adoption trauma, and love-based parenting. A former foster child himself, Bryan has dedicated over two decades to helping families heal through connection, compassion, and regulation. He is the founder of Fear to Love, LLC, Bondify.ai, the Post Institute for Family-Centered Therapy, and the nonprofit Leaf Wraparound. His pioneering “Fear to Love Method” and the “Stress Model” empower parents to respond to challenging behaviors with understanding rather than fear or punishment. Bryan’s approach blends neuroscience with timeless spiritual principles, particularly the teachings of Jesus, to address trauma and attachment disruptions in children. He has authored several influential books, including From Fear to Love, The Great Behavior Breakdown, and Parenting Softly, and co-authored the bestseller Beyond Consequences, Logic, and Control. Through media appearances, live seminars, online trainings, and digital platforms, Bryan has impacted thousands of adoptive, foster, and biological families worldwide. His AI-powered parenting app, Bondify.ai, offers real-time, trauma-informed support, making expert guidance accessible to parents everywhere. Bryan’s central message is simple yet transformative: all behavior is communication, and true healing begins with love. Learn more at www.feartolove.com and www.bondify.ai. Things you'll learn from this episode  Why understanding trauma gives parents the insight needed to respond to behavior with empathy rather than punishment How stress and fear often drive challenging behaviors, especially in neurodivergent children Why love and emotional safety are essential ingredients for healing and building strong parent-child relationships How self-regulation and simple tools like breathing help parents stay grounded and co-regulate more effectively Why unexpressed grief in children can surface as disruptive behavior and needs compassionate attention How connection, oxytocin, and community support create the foundation for lasting change—even if you're starting late in the game Resources mentioned Bryan Post’s Fear to Love website Bryan’s YouTube Channel Bryan on LinkedIn Bryan on Instagram Fear to Love on Facebook The Emotional Brain: The Mysterious Underpinnings of Emotional Life by Joseph Ledoux Dr. Herbert Benson / Benson-Henry Institute Tiffany Field / The Touch Institute ACES (Adverse Childhood Experiences) Affect Regulation and the Origin of the Self by Allan Schore Self-Reg: How to Help Your Child (and You) Break the Stress Cycle and Successfully Engage with Life by Dr. Stuart Shanker Dr. Stuart Shanker on the Brain Science Behind Self-Regulation & the Impact of Stress (Tilt Parenting podcast) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Parent coach, Washington Post columnist, and author of "Parenting Outside the Lines" Meghan Leahy talks about embracing imperfection and vulnerability in our parenting lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, I’m joined by clinical psychologist Dr. Emily Kline for a deep dive into motivational interviewing—an approach to communication that helps parents move from fixing and convincing to connecting and collaborating. We talk about how to have hard conversations (think: hygiene, responsibility, and independence) in a way that respects our kids’ autonomy and actually opens the door to change. Emily brings nearly 20 years of experience working with families, has taught at Boston University and Harvard Medical School, and is the author of The School of Hard Talks. She shares practical, compassionate insights that any parent navigating the teen and young adult years will find incredibly useful. About Dr. Emily Kline Dr. Emily Kline is a clinical psychologist with nearly 20 years of experience working with individuals and families in community mental health settings. She has held faculty positions at Boston University and Harvard Medical School and led research studies focused on early course psychosis, adolescent and young adult mental health, and parent-focused interventions. Dr. Kline is the author of The School of Hard Talks: How to Have Real Conversations with Your (Almost Grown) Kids and the creator of The School of Hard Talks Online. She has published dozens of articles appearing in a range of peer-reviewed scholarly journals, textbooks, and popular magazines, and she has spoken with audiences all over the world about mental health and communication. Dr. Kline completed her bachelor’s degree at Haverford College, her master’s and doctoral degrees at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, and her clinical and post-doctoral training at Harvard Medical School. She lives in Boston with her family. Things you'll learn from this episode Why motivational interviewing is a powerful communication tool that can improve family dynamics How fostering a sense of control in children leads to more thoughtful and responsible decision-making Why validating a child’s feelings and using reflections helps deepen understanding and connection How open-ended questions encourage more meaningful conversations and reveal what’s beneath the surface Why advice lands better when it’s offered after establishing trust, empathy, and true understanding How practicing these skills in low-stakes moments builds confidence for navigating harder conversations Resources mentioned  Dr. Emily Kline’s website Free e-course on motivational interviewing The School of Hard Talks: How to Have Real Conversations with Your (Almost Grown) Kids by Emily Kline, PhD The Self-Driven Child with Dr. William Stixrud and Ned Johnson (Full-Tilt Parenting) Dr. William Miller / Motivational Interviewing Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers Dr. Stephen Rollnick Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Licensed family therapist and international consultant on high sensitivity Alane Freund explains what high sensitivity is, how it shows up in children, teens, and adults, and gives her insights on how parents can help a highly sensitive child flourish. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices