Calm Parenting Podcast
Kirk Martin
Have a strong-willed child who doesn't respond to consequences, argues like an attorney, and refuses to do things your way? Good! You're in the right place. Celebrate Calm Founder Kirk Martin has given over 1,000,000 parents and teachers around the world practical, life-changing strategies to stop power struggles, yelling, and defiance NOW. Based on work with 1,500 challenging kids (many with AD/HD, OCD, ODD, ASD, etc.) in his home, and years spent in classrooms, Kirk's approach is refreshingly practical, honest, and laugh-out-loud funny! Questions? Visit us at www.CelebrateCalm.com or email us directly at Casey@CelebrateCalm.com
Episodes
Mentioned books
8 snips
Oct 29, 2025 • 23min
3 Common Situations In Which You Can “Give In” & Still Be A Good Parent #531
Explore the delicate balance of parenting as Kirk discusses when it's okay to give in without compromising your principles. Discover three real-life scenarios where strategic flexibility can foster stronger relationships. Learn about the wisdom of letting go after weekend procrastination and how sometimes, giving a little mercy can maintain peace with teens. Kirk emphasizes being firm on critical rules while allowing leniency on minor issues, helping parents navigate those gray areas with confidence.
Oct 26, 2025 • 23min
7 Favorite Ideas For Sleep, Anxiety, Meltdowns, School, Homework & Impulsivity #530
Discover effective strategies for managing sleep struggles and anxiety in children of all ages. Learn how to implement creative morning routines to energize your kids for school. Find out how to help impulsive children thrive with practical classroom tools. Kirk shares the importance of validating intense emotions and suggests calming rituals that promote relaxation without eye contact. Tune in for insights on observing sensory cues to tailor homework and calming approaches.
8 snips
Oct 22, 2025 • 22min
When Kids Reject Your Help & Refuse To Listen to You #529
Navigating the challenges of parenting can be tough, especially when kids reject help. Discover why children often resist assistance and how parents can unintentionally escalate conflicts. Learn to give kids space, allowing them to find solutions on their own without feeling judged. Kirk shares personal anecdotes to illustrate the power of autonomy, emphasizing the importance of stepping back and affirming independence. Explore practical strategies to manage anxiety and foster responsibility within boundaries, helping kids thrive.
Oct 19, 2025 • 22min
Do You Need To Grieve The Child (& Childhood) You Didn’t Get? #528
Explore the world of strong-willed kids and the unique traits they exhibit, like brightness and a penchant for power struggles. Discover how a parent’s temperament can shape the dynamic and escalate conflicts. Learn why healing begins with acceptance and how embracing your child can also unlock your own personal growth. Kirk shares actionable strategies and heartfelt testimonials that highlight the transformative power of parenting. Finally, he emphasizes the importance of enjoying your children and seeking support in this challenging journey.
6 snips
Oct 17, 2025 • 7min
Quick Tips for Dads Ep. 4: Don't Ask Your Wife to be the Referee
Explore the complex dynamics of parental roles as one dad shares how his emotional struggles made his wife the referee in conflicts. He emphasizes the importance of self-control and de-escalation techniques, suggesting dads should communicate openly with their partners. By sitting down to problem-solve and using physical activities to diffuse tension, parents can shift the household atmosphere. Learn how breaking generational patterns and seeking support can enhance relationships and create a more harmonious family life.
Oct 15, 2025 • 24min
Face to Face With An Angry, Frustrated, Anxious Child #527
Explore the emotional landscape of dealing with angry and anxious children. Learn to recognize power struggles and shift your perspective from authority to connection. Discover techniques to validate a child's feelings and promote cooperation through humble interactions. Kirk shares personal experiences and practical strategies, like playing alongside your child and modeling vulnerability. Transform your parenting approach for long-term benefits in your relationship, building trust and lasting skills.
Oct 12, 2025 • 23min
Home Life Spiraling Out of Control? 7 Ways to Change Daily Battles ASAP #526
Feeling overwhelmed by your child's behavior? You're not alone! Discover practical steps to regain control at home. Learn how to slow down your family's pace and focus on raising responsible adults rather than perfect kids. Rebuild trust through connection and assume the best about your child's intentions. Equip them with tools for success and use specific praise to motivate. Commit to a few changes this week to transform daily battles into positive experiences!
Oct 8, 2025 • 25min
10 Ways to Internally Motivate Confident Kids & Prepare Them For Life Success #525
Discover how to ignite internal motivation in kids who resist school and focus on cultivating their confidence for future success. Explore unconventional learning paths and the importance of adapting study methods to fit unique styles. Learn the value of prioritizing strengths, embracing practical experiences over homework, and celebrating real-life skills. Kirk emphasizes building connections through mentorship and how real-world experiences can foster motivation and resilience.
13 snips
Oct 5, 2025 • 22min
School Is Not That Important (& What IS Important) #524
Many children dislike school, but that doesn't dictate their future success. Emphasizing that academic performance isn't the sole predictor of life achievement, the discussion explores how learning can take many forms. Kids may rebel against traditional schooling due to boredom or personal challenges, and taking nontraditional paths can foster resilience. Parents are encouraged to release control, allowing kids to pursue their passions, leading to stronger relationships and self-discovery. In the end, it's about cultivating natural talents rather than battling over grades.
15 snips
Oct 3, 2025 • 8min
Quick Tips for Dads Ep. 3: Discipline Without Drama
Discover how to transform discipline from punishment to teaching. Learn the importance of issuing enforceable consequences to build respect at home. Understand how promises can foster integrity and empower kids with impulse control through specific screen limits. Explore the benefits of setting short, clear consequences and teach delayed gratification by encouraging early screen turn-offs. This episode provides valuable insights for dads looking to create a calmer, more respectful family dynamic.
