
Peace and Parenting: How to Parent without Punishments
Are you sick of parenting with the ideas of yelling and shame and looking for something that feels better, is different, but still has a sense of boundaries and limits?Welcome to Peace and Parenting! Michelle is a former teacher, counselor, certified parenting coach, mom of two teens, recovering yeller, and perfectionist who parents without using punishments altogether. And guess what? It works! On this show, you’ll learn the how behind having kids who are entirely UNPUNISHED but who are also successful, kind, loving, and know how to follow directions. Twice a week, Michelle shares her insights and expertise on connective parenting through solo episodes and interviews with experts and other struggling parents. If you have exhausted all other options and don't know what to do next, this could be the parenting strategy you've been searching for.
Latest episodes

Jan 23, 2025 • 17min
How to Show Unconditional Love—Even in the Tough Times
How do you show unconditional love in challenging moments? Are your children feeling truly loved, especially during their toughest times?Today, I share the profound difference between loving your children and making them feel unconditionally loved. It's easy to express love in the fun, cuddly moments, but how do we convey that same love when things get tough? I hope this episode provides you with valuable insights and practical approaches to ensure your children feel deeply and unconditionally loved, even in the hardest moments.In This Episode:Unconditional love in challenging parenting momentsAwareness during parent-child interactionsImportance of self-regulation for parentsAddressing fear and pain in relationshipsModeling positive behavior for children========🔗 Interested in group or 1:1 Coaching? Book a Discovery Call today.💌 Enjoy today’s episode? Please share it with a fellow parent or leave a rating and a review.📖 Check out my book UNPUNISHED!Follow Peace and Parenting:YouTube: @peaceandparentinglaInstagram: @peaceandparentingFacebook: @peaceandparentinglaPeace and Parenting Facebook GroupInterested in learning how to balance parenting and technology? Join my Plugged in Parenting seminar on April 29-30: https://peaceandparentingla.com/event-understanding-kids-technologyOur Sponsors:* Check out Blueland: https://blueland.com/peace* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code PEACE for a great deal: https://happymammoth.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jan 21, 2025 • 18min
Case Study: How Do I Stop Yelling at My Kids?
Does your child's behavior trigger unexpected reactions in you? Join me as I sit down with Taylor, a mom navigating the intense emotions that parenting can invoke.In this heartfelt episode, Taylor opens up about her struggles with a short temper and impatience, emotions she hardly experiences in other areas of her life. Together, we explore the underlying causes of these reactions, linking them back to her own childhood experiences and unmet needs. We explore practical strategies for self-regulation, understanding our triggers, and the power of sincere, straightforward apologies. I hope this raw and honest conversation helps you foster a more connected and peaceful parenting approach.In This Episode:Breaking the cycle of impatience and yellingImportance of self-awareness in parentingApologies: meaningful and untethered responsibilityRecognizing and reacting to physical triggersImportance of self-care for effective parentingPractical mindfulness techniques to stay calm========🔗 Interested in group or 1:1 Coaching? Book a Discovery Call today.💌 Enjoy today’s episode? Please share it with a fellow parent or leave a rating and a review.📖 Check out my book UNPUNISHED!Follow Peace and Parenting:YouTube: @peaceandparentinglaInstagram: @peaceandparentingFacebook: @peaceandparentinglaPeace and Parenting Facebook GroupInterested in learning how to balance parenting and technology? Join my Plugged in Parenting seminar on April 29-30: https://peaceandparentingla.com/event-understanding-kids-technologyOur Sponsors:* Check out Blueland: https://blueland.com/peace* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code PEACE for a great deal: https://happymammoth.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jan 16, 2025 • 23min
Four Parenting Lessons I Wish I Learned Sooner
Have you found yourself at a loss, struggling with punishments, rewards, and teachable moments that just don’t seem to work? In today’s episode, we explore the profound shifts we can make to foster deeper connections with our children—changes I wish I had known from the start.Today, I open up about my personal journey of parenting missteps and revelations. From realizing the dark side of punishments and rewards to learning the value of modeling over lecturing, I'll share with you the four significant changes I would make if I could turn back time. In This Episode:Shunning punishments and consequencesAbandoning the reward systemMoving away from constant teachable momentsEmbracing joy over productivity========🔗 Interested in group or 1:1 Coaching? Book a Discovery Call today.💌 Enjoy today’s episode? Please share it with a fellow parent or leave a rating and a review.📖 Check out my book UNPUNISHED!Follow Peace and Parenting:YouTube: @peaceandparentinglaInstagram: @peaceandparentingFacebook: @peaceandparentinglaPeace and Parenting Facebook GroupInterested in learning how to balance parenting and technology? Join my Plugged in Parenting seminar on April 29-30: https://peaceandparentingla.com/event-understanding-kids-technologyOur Sponsors:* Check out Blueland: https://blueland.com/peace* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code PEACE for a great deal: https://happymammoth.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jan 14, 2025 • 18min
Parenting Mistakes You Might Be Making with Your Anxious Teen: Insights from a Teen Anxiety Coach
What if your teen's 'rude' behavior is actually a cry for help? Could anxiety be hiding behind their tough exterior? In today's episode, we dive deep into the world of teen anxiety with my special guest Monica Crnogorac, a certified teen anxiety coach. We unearth misconceptions about teen anxiety, discuss how parents often misinterpret their teen’s actions, and explore concrete methods to support your anxious teen without adding to their stress.With her unique blend of personal and professional experience, Monica sheds light on the common issues teens face today, from academic pressures to social relationships. We delve into the significant role parents play in modeling healthy coping mechanisms and how small shifts in our approach can have a monumental impact on our teen’s mental health.Every parent of a teen will find valuable insights in this episode. Monica’s practical tips on how to navigate the often tumultuous teen years with empathy and understanding are a game-changer. In This Episode:Identifying anxiety beyond 'just a phase'Understanding the genetic link to parental anxietyRecognizing internalized anxiety in high achieversDeciphering teen behavior as stress responsesStrategies to validate and support anxious teens========🔗 Check out Monica’s podcast, Parenting Anxious Teens or follow her on Instagram @__consciouscoach 🔗 Interested in group or 1:1 Coaching? Book a Discovery Call today.💌 Enjoy today’s episode? Please share it with a fellow parent or leave a rating and a review.📖 Check out my book UNPUNISHED!Follow Peace and Parenting:YouTube: @peaceandparentinglaInstagram: @peaceandparentingFacebook: @peaceandparentinglaPeace and Parenting Facebook GroupInterested in learning how to balance parenting and technology? Join my Plugged in Parenting seminar on April 29-30: https://peaceandparentingla.com/event-understanding-kids-technologyOur Sponsors:* Check out Blueland: https://blueland.com/peace* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code PEACE for a great deal: https://happymammoth.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jan 9, 2025 • 16min
Why Strong-Willed Kids Say No… and How to Turn It Into a Yes
Discover the fascinating psyche of strong-willed children and learn how their defiance often stems from a powerful sense of self. Explore the importance of connection over control and the benefits of low-demand parenting. Get insights on giving real choices and using empathy to navigate power struggles. Shift your perspective from punishment to strategies based on mutual respect, allowing both parents and children to thrive together.

Jan 7, 2025 • 18min
Case Study: How We React to Tantrums [Re-Release]
Today, I speak with Danielle, one of my students in the Connected Parent Mastermind group. We discussed the significance of connection and how providing our children with emotional support during intense moments can positively impact future interactions. During our conversation, Danielle shared a story about an incident that occurred while she was camping with her son. Her son had a tantrum and even pointed a fake gun at her. However, what surprised her was how both of them handled the situation.This episode originally aired August 2023========🔗 Join my new Connected Parent Mastermind designed for parents who want to strengthen their connection with their children, experience more love, and reduce frustration. Space is limited, so be sure to sign up now if you're interested.🔗 Interested in group or 1:1 Coaching? Book a Discovery Call today.💌 Enjoy today’s episode? Please share it with a fellow parent or leave a rating and a review.📖 Check out my book UNPUNISHED!Follow Peace and Parenting:YouTube: @peaceandparentinglaInstagram: @peaceandparentingFacebook: @peaceandparentinglaPeace and Parenting Facebook GroupInterested in learning how to balance parenting and technology? Join my Plugged in Parenting seminar on April 29-30: https://peaceandparentingla.com/event-understanding-kids-technologyOur Sponsors:* Check out Blueland: https://blueland.com/peace* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code PEACE for a great deal: https://happymammoth.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jan 2, 2025 • 21min
How Letting Go of Control Can Improve Your Child’s Behavior
What happens when the desire for order and control in our lives clashes with the free-spirited nature of our children? Today, I delve into the challenges of overcoming control freak tendencies in parenting and finding a harmonious balance that respects both our needs and those of our children.I'll share my personal journey from being a self-confessed control freak to a more mindful and connected parent. My need for a tidy environment, calm atmosphere, and perfect order often clashed with my kids' natural messiness and spirited behaviors. And this took a toll on my relationship with them and pushed me to reevaluate my parenting style.In this Episode:Balancing order with your child's autonomyOvercoming control tendencies in parentingImpact of perfectionism on the parent-child relationshipAllowing children to own their academic journeyImportance of connection over punishment========🔗 Interested in group or 1:1 Coaching? Book a Discovery Call today.💌 Enjoy today’s episode? Please share it with a fellow parent or leave a rating and a review.📖 Check out my book UNPUNISHED!Follow Peace and Parenting:YouTube: @peaceandparentinglaInstagram: @peaceandparentingFacebook: @peaceandparentinglaPeace and Parenting Facebook GroupInterested in learning how to balance parenting and technology? Join my Plugged in Parenting seminar on April 29-30: https://peaceandparentingla.com/event-understanding-kids-technologyOur Sponsors:* Check out Blueland: https://blueland.com/peace* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code PEACE for a great deal: https://happymammoth.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dec 31, 2024 • 25min
Case Study: How Do You Stop Aggressive Behavior Without Punishments?
Explore the complex world of childhood aggression and discover how it often represents unmet needs rather than a child's nature. Hear heartfelt stories from parents grappling with their son's aggression and learn the importance of empathy and connection. This discussion emphasizes shifting perspectives on discipline, advocating for supportive rather than punitive measures. Practical strategies are shared to model positive behavior and manage emotional challenges while highlighting the role of persistence in transforming parenting approaches.

Dec 26, 2024 • 14min
Are Your Relatives Ruining Your Parenting Efforts?
What should you do when Grandma threatens to punish your kids during family gatherings? How can we balance the need for extended family connections with our desire to parent consciously? In today’s episode, I explore the delicate art of navigating family dynamics during the holidays—or at any time—while staying true to our ideals of connected parenting.I’ll discuss how to handle well-meaning grandparents who bribe with cookies and how to manage our own expectations about family members' behavior. I assure you that one inconsistent influence won’t harm your children if the primary relationship is strong and secure. So, let's talk about the importance of flexibility, setting boundaries, and how sometimes, letting go of control can lead to deeper connections.In this Episode:The impact of relatives on our childrenDifferences in parenting styles within familiesThe importance of one stable, secure relationshipBalancing flexibility with setting boundariesManaging expectations of extended family members========🔗 Join my 30-Day Challenge and dive into a transformative journeytailored for parents like you!🔗 Interested in group or 1:1 Coaching? Book a Discovery Call today.💌 Enjoy today’s episode? Please share it with a fellow parent or leave a rating and a review.📖 Check out my book UNPUNISHED!Follow Peace and Parenting:YouTube: @peaceandparentinglaInstagram: @peaceandparentingFacebook: @peaceandparentinglaPeace and Parenting Facebook GroupInterested in learning how to balance parenting and technology? Join my Plugged in Parenting seminar on April 29-30: https://peaceandparentingla.com/event-understanding-kids-technologyOur Sponsors:* Check out Blueland: https://blueland.com/peace* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code PEACE for a great deal: https://happymammoth.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dec 24, 2024 • 19min
Case Study: How Empathy Revolutionized My Approach to Parenting Teenagers
What makes empathy a powerful tool in setting limits with your kids? What if letting go of control could transform family dynamics? In today's conversation with Raley, a mother of three teens, she shares her remarkable journey from a disconnected, tumultuous household to one filled with empathy and connection.Raley opens up about her struggles with conventional parenting methods based on consequences and control. Together, we unravel how her transition to connective parenting, guided by our Peace and Parenting community, has significantly improved her family’s relationships and overall harmony. We discuss practical techniques for promoting responsibility, fostering empathy, and cheering on the small yet profound victories that bring familial peace.In this Episode:Transforming family dynamics with connective parentingEliminating threats and bribes from parent tacticsEncouraging responsibility and independence in childrenFostering genuine connection through empathy and playThe enlightening journey from control to understandingReal-life benefits and challenges of this parenting approach========🔗 Interested in group or 1:1 Coaching? Book a Discovery Call today.💌 Enjoy today’s episode? Please share it with a fellow parent or leave a rating and a review.📖 Check out my book UNPUNISHED!Follow Peace and Parenting:YouTube: @peaceandparentinglaInstagram: @peaceandparentingFacebook: @peaceandparentinglaPeace and Parenting Facebook GroupInterested in learning how to balance parenting and technology? Join my Plugged in Parenting seminar on April 29-30: https://peaceandparentingla.com/event-understanding-kids-technologyOur Sponsors:* Check out Blueland: https://blueland.com/peace* Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code PEACE for a great deal: https://happymammoth.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy