Parenting Without Power Struggles

In this episode, Susan reflects on Derek Thompson’s article The Death of Partying in the USA to explore a troubling trend: the steady decline of in-person socializing, especially among young people. Susan highlights the mental health risks this poses—not just for adults, but for children growing up in screen-based, solitary environments. Susan gently encourages families to prioritize connection in an increasingly disconnected world. https://pages.susanstiffelman.com/kids-thrive-connection-podcast

In this episode, Susan explores the unique needs and strengths of highly sensitive children. Susan explains that high sensitivity is a temperament trait—not a flaw—characterized by deep empathy, acute perception, and strong emotional responses. Acknowledging that parenting a sensitive child can be both exhausting and rewarding, Susan emphasizes the importance of providing a calm, steady presence to help these children feel safe and supported. https://pages.susanstiffelman.com/sensitive-kids-podcast

In this episode, encourages parents to shift from reactive discipline to compassionate problem-solving by asking a simple but powerful question: “Why does this behavior make sense?” Susan illustrates how understanding the root causes of a child’s actions can lead to more effective, connection-based responses. https://pages.susanstiffelman.com/podcasts-why-behavior-makes-sense

In this episode, Susan explors the roots of parental reactivity—those moments when we snap, yell, or shut down—and why they have less to do with our children’s behavior and more to do with our own unmet needs, past experiences, and nervous system responses. Recognizing our triggers with compassion can open the door to healing, not just for ourselves but for our relationships with our kids. Susan invites listeners to shift from shame to self-awareness—and take the first steps toward more connected, mindful parenting. https://pages.susanstiffelman.com/keeping-your-cool-podcast-2

In this episode, Susan tackles a common parenting challenge: how to stay calm in the heat of conflict. Drawing on attachment theory, neuroscience, and mindfulness, Susan introduces two powerful tools—shrinking the moment and using a mental anchor word—to help parents regulate their own emotions and respond more constructively when their children resist limits. She invites listeners to a free webinar for more in-depth strategies on keeping your cool during parenting storms. https://pages.susanstiffelman.com/keeping-cool-podcast

In this insightful episode, Susan is joined by Tracy Gillett of Raised Good for an honest conversation about parenting through meltdowns—those intense emotional storms that can shake both children and caregivers. They explore what’s really happening in a child’s brain during a meltdown, why these moments are developmentally normal, and how parents can show up with compassion rather than control. They also discuss the power of repair, the myth of perfect parenting, and how to trust your instincts even when they run counter to mainstream advice. https://pages.susanstiffelman.com/tracy-gillett-podcast

In this episode, I explore one of the most challenging aspects of parenting: children’s emotional meltdowns. But meltdowns are not signs of bad behavior—they're nervous system overloads signaling distress. I unpack the neuroscience behind these moments, the difference between tantrums and meltdowns, and why staying calm is more effective than trying to reason. You'll learn why emotional expression, especially crying, is essential for healthy development, and how your own regulation is key to supporting your child. https://pages.susanstiffelman.com/meltdowns-podcast

In this episode, Susan and Lenore Skenazy discussed the importance of childhood independence, free play, and responsibility, emphasizing the need to reduce anxiety in children by allowing them to take risks and make their own decisions. They explored the impact of cultural messaging and media on parenting practices, suggesting ways to promote resilience and social skills through programs like free play and after-school activities. Their conversation also touched on the challenges of screen time, the benefits of self-care for parents, and the value of allowing children to contribute to family life and experience real-world interactions. https://pages.susanstiffelman.com/lenore-skenazy-podcast

In this episode, Susan welcomes Dr. Delaney Ruston, a physician, filmmaker, and creator of the Screenagers documentary series. In this powerful conversation, they talk about how to parent with compassion and confidence in the digital age. Delaney emphasizes the importance of the "safety first" approach: creating a home environment where children feel safe disclosing difficult online experiences without fear of punishment. Susan and Delaney stress the power of presence, connection, and emotional safety as the bedrock of digital-era parenting. https://pages.susanstiffelman.com/delaney-ruston-podcast

Anxiety in children isn’t something to eliminate—it’s something to understand. In this episode, we explore how anxiety shows up in the body and why it’s actually a signal, not a flaw. You’ll walk away with a new lens on your child’s anxious moments—and a sense of what real support can look like. https://pages.susanstiffelman.com/anxiety-podcast-2