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
Nov 12, 2025 • 23min
How to Turn Mad Toddlers, Teens & In Between Into Resilient Kids #535
Kids getting mad is a natural part of parenting. Learn how to handle tantrums with calmness and patience, while teaching toddlers important skills. Discover strategies to help older siblings adapt to new babies, and turn chores into fun challenges. Understand the difference between anxiety and defiance in teens, and how to set predictable limits. Explore the importance of protecting kids online and building trust through honest conversations. Responsibility can spark positive change in your child's behavior!
Nov 9, 2025 • 24min
Triggered By Kids’ Noises & Messes, Sibling Fights, Backtalk, Dawdling? #534
This enlightening discussion dives into the triggers parents face, such as tantrums and sibling squabbles. Strategies for managing messes and noise without overreacting are shared, encouraging a shift in perspective. The host emphasizes breaking negative generational patterns and prioritizing connection over rigid agendas. Tips for handling kids' dawdling and reframing disorder as creativity are introduced, with a focus on transforming irritation into bonding opportunities. It's all about fostering a calmer, more understanding parenting approach.
Nov 5, 2025 • 25min
When Kids Reflexively Say No, Reject Your Ideas, Food & Faith #533
Navigating the constant "No" from kids can be challenging! Discover why children seek autonomy and how to encourage their decision-making. Learn effective strategies for discussing food and faith without defensiveness. Find out how to plant ideas instead of lecturing and promote healthy eating habits. Kirk shares tools to manage strong-willed behavior and set boundaries while allowing kids to take ownership. Plus, consider letting children reflect on the topics to foster understanding and reduce conflicts!
Nov 2, 2025 • 21min
Should You Celebrate Your Child Infuriating You (& Lying About It)? #532
Navigate the tricky waters of childhood misbehavior with a fresh perspective. Turning moments of lying into teaching opportunities can build honesty skills. Learn to celebrate impulsive decisions while guiding kids on reflection and negotiation. By remaining calm and engaged, parents can turn missteps into valuable life lessons. Discover practical steps like role-playing and allowing kids to resolve disputes for a comprehensive approach to parenting challenges. Embrace the journey of growth and learning in your family!
Nov 1, 2025 • 7min
Quick Tips for Dads Ep. 5: Navigating the Landmine of Kids & Sports
Explore the challenges of raising sporty kids who may not share your enthusiasm or sports skills. Discover how to coach your child without straining your relationship and learn practical rules to curb sideline yelling. Get effective strategies for handling emotional meltdowns after losses and find out what to say at games for positive reinforcement. With actionable tips and relatable stories, this podcast offers valuable insights for navigating the complexities of youth sports parenting.
11 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.
