Single-Parenting with Connection (NOT Perfection)

Parenting without control might sound radical. Or maybe you love the idea but can’t picture it holding up when your kid needs a blood draw or can't turn off the iPad. I'm diving into it this week with Vivek Patel of Meaningful Ideas, including how his Non-Coercive Collaborative Parenting (NCCP) approach applies when the parenting stakes feel high. In this episode, you'll hear: Vivek's answer to the question, "“Do you just let your kid run into the street?” How to prepare your kid for a blood draw or medical test they’re dreading. The secret to screen-time without the struggles. Why “how do I get my kid to brush their teeth?” is the wrong question. The five-second self-compassion practice you can do in the middle of the dishes. Why Vivek tells parents to “go FECK yourself” (it’s kinder than it sounds). RELATED EPISODES: 👉 12. Screens: The Mindset Shift That Changes Everything, with Ash Brandin ABOUT VIVEK Vivek Patel of Meaningful Ideas is the founder of Non-Coercive, Collaborative Parenting (NCCP). The ideas…

Is it true what they say? "Kids are resilient; they'll be fine!" We're diving into that very question in today's episode, plus three essential steps for supporting your child through challenging times. In this episode, you'll hear: What resilience actually is 2 key ingredients for building resilience Common myths and mistakes parents make when supporting kids through hard times 3 things you can do today to help you raise resilient kids (without "losing your cool" or crushing their spirit) NOTE: This episode is a replay from my popular guest webinar on this very topic, hosted by Fresh Starts Registry － a fabulous divorce support network full of resources for any stage of divorce. Related resources: ⭐️ Fresh Starts Registry: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/ ⭐️ Free resources from Dr. Gila: parentingwithconnection.com/freshstarts Related episodes: 🎙️ 2. Keeping Your Cool: Emotion Regulation for Parents 🎙️ 6. 2 Reasons You Can't "Calm" Your Way Out of the Hard Stuff 🎙️ 7. Why Kids "Lose It": What's Beneath…

Back-to-school season is here! And for parents of complex kids, the new notebooks and backpacks often come with a side of anxiety and angst. This week I'm joined by Scotti Weintraub, host of the Unlocking School Success podcast, to talk about tips for setting you and your kids setting up a thriving new year. You'll hear: The low-lift inventory that tells you more about last year than any report card (and why your kid is the best source) How to reach out to a new teacher so it lands as partnership, not a list of demands The tip that keeps you from firehosing the teacher on day one How to send that email even when part of you is scared of being "that parent" ...and more. RELATED EPISODES: 🎙️ 34. Supporting Your Neurodivergent Learner at School and at Home (with Dr. Emily King) 🎙️ 25. Strength-Based Parenting & Schooling for Gifted and Neurodivergent Kids (with Sam Young) ABOUT SCOTTI Scotti Weintraub, MA, founder of Reframe Parenting, is a parent coach, school navigator, problem-solver, and podcast host.…

An encore episode, just in time for back-to-school season! But first... 🌟 Get your free printable meltdown guide at parentingwithconnection.com/guide ********************* If you can't reach 'em, you can't teach 'em. That's true whether we're talking about math class or tying shoes. No one knows this more than Dr. Emily King, a school psychologist, child psychologist, and author of the upcoming book The Neurodivergent Learner. In this episode, we dig into why the system was never really designed for kids like yours, and what that means for you at home and at school. You'll hear... Why your kid struggles in traditional school systems What skill readiness actually looks like, and how to stop pushing at the wrong moment Why kids lose skills they already have, and when to worry vs. wait How to talk to your child's teacher in ways that actually move things forward Why academic achievement and "success" are not the same thing RESOURCES MENTIONED: 👉 The Neurodivergent Learner (available for pre-order) 👉 Learn with…

A fan favorite — back for the summer! But first... 🌟 Get your free printable meltdown guide at parentingwithconnection.com/guide Boundaries! Parents talk about this A LOT. But are we actually talking about the same thing? In this episode, Dr. Gila breaks down the three distinct concepts that get lumped together into the term "boundaries," and why getting clear on the difference isn't just semantic. In this episode: The difference between boundaries, limits, and expectations...and why it matters. The key ingredients for boundaries that work. How to increase cooperation without compromising connection. What to ask yourself when you're not sure whether to "hold a boundary." Related resources: ⭐️ Episode 7. Why Kids "Lose It": What's Beneath the Big Behaviors ⭐️ Episode 9. Power Struggles with Neurodivergent Kids: Beyond the Battles, with Dr. Danika Maddocks ＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿ CONNECT WITH DR. GILA 👉 Join the newsletter for practical parenting tips and a hefty dose of empathy, delivered straight to your inbox. 🔗…

A fan favorite — back for the summer! But first... 🌟 Get your free printable meltdown guide at parentingwithconnection.com/guide Parent burnout is real, and it’s not just about being tired. In this powerful conversation with Low-Demand Parenting author Amanda Diekman, we explore what parent burnout really means, and how to find your way back to yourself. If you’ve been running on empty or wondering how to keep going when you’re already at your limit, this one’s for you. Connect with Amanda Diekman: Amanda is a late diagnosed PDA autistic adult, parent coach, and author of the book Low Demand Parenting, published July 2023. Amanda runs a successful coaching practice for parents of neurodivergent children, offering a variety of online courses. She is the host of Low Demand Parenting podcast. She lives with her husband and three neurodivergent children in an intentional community in Durham, NC. WEBSITE: www.amandadiekman.com INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/lowdemandamanda/ FACEBOOK:…

A fan favorite — back for the summer! But first... 🌟 Get your free printable meltdown guide at parentingwithconnection.com/guide You’ve done the deep breathing and tried every self-regulation trick in the book...So why does single-parenting still feel so freaking hard?! In this episode, Dr. Gila shares two often overlooked pieces of the puzzle, and why a parent's self-regulation, while essential, isn’t the whole answer (especially when single-parenting a strong-willed or neurodivergent child!). Tune in to hear: • The limits of self-regulation (and why that’s not your fault) • How to find acceptance without giving up hope • The missing “kid piece” that changes everything Resources mentioned in this episode: 👉 Free guide: Tantrums and Meltdowns and Rages, Oh My! The Single Parent’s Guide to Understanding Challenging Behaviors. 👉 Episode 2: Keeping Your Cool: Emotion Regulation for Parents 👉 Episode 3: Parent burnout: Radical shifts to survive and thrive, with Amanda Diekman ＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿ CONNECT WITH DR. GILA 👉…

A fan favorite — back for the summer! But first... 🌟 Get your free printable meltdown guide at parentingwithconnection.com/guide Why does your kid push back so hard, even over simple stuff? And how can you break free of these battles so life doesn't feel like a trek through molasses? Power struggles may be the bane of your existence, but they're also a glimpse into your kid's brain. Join Dr. Gila and her guest, Dr. Danika Maddocks, an expert in parenting gifted and twice-exceptional (2e) kids, for a deep dive into this incredibly common (and incredibly frustrating!) parenting challenge. In this episode: What power struggles are actually telling you about your child’s needs (and their nervous system). Why gifted, 2e, and neurodivergent kids may push back harder and more often, even when they “know better.” The common piece of parenting advice that often backfires, and what to do instead. One small phrase that can defuse tension and model emotional flexibility. Related resources: ⭐️ From Dr. Danika Maddocks:…

A fan favorite — back for the summer! But first... 🌟 Get your free printable meltdown guide at parentingwithconnection.com/guide If the idea of “being playful” with your kid makes you want to crawl into a cave, this episode is for you. In this episode, Dr. Gila talks with Mia Wisinski from Playful Heart Parenting, who has a seemingly endless bucket of low-effort, high-connection ideas for sneaking silliness into the cracks of real-life parenting… even when you’re wiped. You'll hear: Why play feels so hard for so many of us adults (including me!). How to tap into even the tiniest spark of silliness when you're running on fumes. Why playfulness can actually save you time, energy, and headaches. Simple ideas you can try today...from your couch! And yes… there will be fart noises. Consider yourself warned. Related resources: ⭐️ FREE Play Break Bingo from Playful Heart Parenting About Mia and Playful Heart Parenting Mia is a theater educator, performer, songwriter, and more — but her favorite role by far is being…

A fan favorite — back for the summer! But first... 🌟 Get your free printable meltdown guide at parentingwithconnection.com/guide Snapping at your kids more than you’d like? Or do they keep "losing it," with tantrums and meltdowns that seem to come out of nowhere and leave you walking on eggshells? In this episode, Dr. Gila shares her signature framework for understanding emotion regulation. It’s a simple visual and a powerful tool for kids and adults alike. And it just might change how you see yourself and your child. ＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿ CONNECT WITH DR. GILA 👉 Join the newsletter for practical parenting tips and a hefty dose of empathy, delivered straight to your inbox. 🔗 Website: www.parentingwithconnection.com ✉️ E-mail: hello@drgilaparenting.com ＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿ ©️ 2026 Dr. Gila Parenting | All rights reserved DISCLAIMER: All episodes of Single-Parenting with Connection (NOT Perfection) are for educational and informational purposes only. Although Dr. Gila is a licensed psychologist and certified coach, this…

A fan favorite — back for the summer! But first... 🌟 Get your free printable meltdown guide at parentingwithconnection.com/guide When your child can't get started, loses everything, or shuts down, it's easy to blame attitude. But what looks like "lazy" or "defiant" behavior might actually be related to executive functioning. In this episode, executive functioning coach Carrie Bonnett and I break down the brain skills behind your child's struggles at school and at home, and what you can actually do about it. You'll hear: What is "executive functioning," and why is it so important? The language shift that changes how you - and your child! - interpret their difficulties Why your struggles as a parent might actually be an asset How to help your child build the skills they need to navigate daily life with more ease Where to start when everything feels like a battle RELATED RESOURCES: 👉 FREE from Carrie: Task Initiation Toolkit 👉 Episode 22: The Superpower Every Parent Has (And How to Use It for Good) ABOUT CARRIE…

A fan favorite — back for the summer! But first... 🌟 Get your free printable meltdown guide at parentingwithconnection.com/guide Can kids form secure attachments in single-parent families? Or are they..."screwed"? In this compassionate conversation, I chat with therapist, mediator, and award-winning author, Aurisha Smolarski, LMFT, to unpack attachment theory and resilience (without the jargon!), and how to help kids feel safe and seen, even when co-parenting is hard or non-existent. You’ll hear us explore: What secure attachment really looks like (beyond buzzwords). Whether a child needs two healthy parent relationships to thrive. The effects of missteps in parenting. How to validate your child’s experience without bad-mouthing the other parent. The connection-building moments that move the needle most. Resources mentioned in this episode: ⭐️ Dr. Gila's step-by-step guide to modeling the art of apology and repair with your kids. ⭐️ Aurisha's "What's Your Communication Style?" Quiz Connect with Aurisha…

A fan favorite (and with good reason!). But first... 🌟 Get your free printable meltdown guide at parentingwithconnection.com/guide Encore episode: Stressed about screen time? (Who isn't?!) What you're about to hear might surprise you...and make this topic feel a lot less scary. In this episode, I'm joined by Ash Brandin, EdS, aka TheGamerEducator and author of the bestselling book, "Power On: Managing Screen Time to Benefit the Whole Family," for an eye-opening conversation that may just change how you think about screens. You'll hear: Why screen-time conflicts feel so charged, and the mindset shifts that instantly lower the temperature. What most parents miss about their kids’ relationship with screens. Why common screen-time strategies can backfire, and what works better. Practical ways to build healthier tech skills without shame, fear, or power struggles. Resources: ⭐️ Power On: Managing Screen Time to Benefit the Whole Family, by Ash Brandin ⭐️ The Burnt Toast Guide to Division of Responsibility, by…

A fan favorite — back for the summer! Tantrums, and meltdowns, and rages...oh my! Big behaviors mean big stress for the whole family. If you’re tired of walking on eggshells, wondering when and why your kid is going to "lose it," this episode is for you. Dr. Gila breaks down what’s really happening beneath the surface when kids have big reactions, and how understanding those moments can transform the way you respond. You’ll walk away with a clearer picture of what your child’s behavior is trying to tell you, and what you can do to help when emotions run high. In this episode, we’ll explore: Why big feelings and big behaviors don't mean your child is a "bad kid" What’s happening inside your child when big behaviors erupt The simple mindset shifts that helps you stay grounded when things get hard Three important things to know about strong-willed kids Two things to work on so you can support your child, reduce big behavior episodes, and help them build the crucial skill of self-regulation. 👉 Download the free…

Different schedules, new settings, and a whole lot of "are we doing enough?" Summer has a way of turning up the volume on everything. In this solo episode, Dr. Gila shares her top five tips for minimizing meltdowns and maximizing connection this summer break. You'll hear... The mindset shift that makes summer feel manageable What connection actually looks like on a hard day The "should" that might be silently ruining your summer plans Why the shame spiral around screens is worth examining How to turn a rough summer moment into useful data Related resources: ⭐️ Free guide to understanding meltdowns: parentingwithconnection.com/guide ⭐️ Episode 31: Summer Planning with Neurodivergent Kids (with Debbie Reber) ⭐️ Episode 13: 10 Tips for the Winter Holidays and Break ⭐️ Episode 12: Screens: The Mindset Shift That Changes Everything, with Ash Brandin ＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿ ❤️ Enrollment is open for Coaching Circles! Only 3 spots per Circle. 👉 parentingwithconnection.com/circles ❤️ FREE guide: Tantrums, & Meltdowns, &…

If you can't reach 'em, you can't teach 'em. That's true whether we're talking about math class or tying shoes. No one knows this more than Dr. Emily King, a school psychologist, child psychologist, and author of the upcoming book The Neurodivergent Learner. In this episode, we dig into why the system was never really designed for kids like yours, and what that means for you at home and at school. You'll hear... Why your kid struggles in traditional school systems What skill readiness actually looks like, and how to stop pushing at the wrong moment Why kids lose skills they already have, and when to worry vs. wait How to talk to your child's teacher in ways that actually move things forward Why academic achievement and "success" are not the same thing RESOURCES MENTIONED: 👉 The Neurodivergent Learner (available for pre-order) 👉 Learn with Dr. Emily, on Substack (30-day free trial) RELATED EPISODES: 🎙️ 25. Strength-Based Parenting & Schooling for Gifted and Neurodivergent Kids (with Sam Young) 🎙️ 28.…

No solutions today. Just me, Dr. Gila, saying the quiet parts out loud. This episode is for anyone whose had a rough morning, or wondered how it's even possible to single-parent in our broken systems. Related resources: ⭐️ Feeling overwhelmed? Download Dr. Gila's short, guided meditation: parentingwithconnection.com/meditation ⭐️ Questions or need support? 👉 hello@drgilaparenting.com About Dr. Gila Dr. Gila (she/her) is a certified parenting coach, a psychologist and neuropsychologist, a speaker and educator, and the host of the "Single-Parenting with Connection (NOT Perfection)" podcast. But her most important role is as single mom to an incredibly awesome and beautifully neurodivergent tween. She specializes in supporting single parents, and parents of "strong-willed" or neurodivergent kids, with a focus on parenting with connection, not control or perfection. Her motto is: Even if you're on your own, you don't have to do it alone! ＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿ ❤️ Enrollment is open for Coaching Circles! Only 3 spots per…

"You love my brothers more than me!" These prickly thoughts are hard! They're hard for you to hear, hard for them to feel, and hard to know what to do. In this week's episode, Dr. Gila walks through how to handle this and similar situations in response to a listener whose daughter's recent meltdowns seem to be related to sibling jealousy. You'll hear... What's really going on when your child says something like this. The three key ingredients for supporting your child and yourself through these tough phases. Practical tips for how to respond in the moment without just arguing "No I don't!" Resources mentioned: ⭐️ Grab Dr. Gila's free guide on what's really underneath big behaviors: parentingwithconnection.com/guide ⭐️ Questions? Email Dr. Gila directly: hello@drgilaparenting.com About Dr. Gila Dr. Gila (she/her) is a certified parenting coach, a psychologist and neuropsychologist, a speaker and educator, and the host of the "Single-Parenting with Connection (NOT Perfection)" podcast. But her most important…

Summer is coming! And the pressure to plan it is already here. This week I'm talking with Debbie Reber, founder of Tilt Parenting, host of the Tilt Parenting Podcast, and author of Differently Wired, about setting ourselves and our neurodivergent kids up for success during the long summer break. You'll hear: The expectation trap most parents walk straight into every June Tips for navigating screen time during the summer Your secret weapon against summer meltdowns What to ask a camp before you sign anything ABOUT DEBBIE REBER Debbie Reber, MA, is a parenting activist, author of Differently Wired, and founder of Tilt Parenting, a top resource for families raising neurodivergent kids. Through her Full-Tilt Parenting podcast (10M+ downloads), bestselling books, and speaking, Debbie champions a strengths-based, inclusive approach to parenting. A three-time TEDx speaker and certified Positive Discipline trainer, her work has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, and on NewsNation. Debbie lives…

It's the situation every parent dreads: Your child or teen is hurting themselves. Or, worse yet, wants to kill themselves. What do you say? What do you do? And how do you not fall apart in the process? This episode is for parents in the thick of it...and for the ones who want to be ready before they get there. Licensed therapist and author Katie May joins Dr. Gila to talk about self-harm, suicidal thoughts, and high-risk behaviors in kids and teens: What's driving them, how to respond, and what parents can start doing now. In this episode: Why self-destructive behaviors aren't what they seem, and what they're actually communicating The one parenting skill Katie says could have prevented her own self-harm as a teen How to have the conversations you're dreading...and what not to say What to do when your child tells you they want to die RELATED RESOURCES: ⭐️ Get the first chapter free of You're on Fire, It's Fine: Effective Strategies for Parenting Teens with Self-Destructive Behaviors at…

Boundaries! Parents talk about this A LOT. But are we actually talking about the same thing? In this episode, Dr. Gila breaks down the three distinct concepts that get lumped together into the term "boundaries," and why getting clear on the difference isn't just semantic. In this episode: The difference between boundaries, limits, and expectations...and why it matters. The key ingredients for boundaries that work. How to increase cooperation without compromising connection. What to ask yourself when you're not sure whether to "hold a boundary." Related resources: ⭐️ Episode 7. Why Kids "Lose It": What's Beneath the Big Behaviors ⭐️ Episode 9. Power Struggles with Neurodivergent Kids: Beyond the Battles, with Dr. Danika Maddocks ＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿ ❤️ Enrollment is open for Coaching Circles! Only 3 spots per Circle. 👉 parentingwithconnection.com/circles ❤️ FREE guide: Tantrums, & Meltdowns, & Rages...Oh My! The single parent's guide to understanding challenging behaviors ＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿ CONNECT WITH DR. GILA 👉 Join the…

When your child can't get started, loses everything, or shuts down, it's easy to blame attitude. But what looks like "lazy" or "defiant" behavior might actually be related to executive functioning. In this episode, executive functioning coach Carrie Bonnett and I break down the brain skills behind your child's struggles at school and at home, and what you can actually do about it. You'll hear: What is "executive functioning," and why is it so important? The language shift that changes how you - and your child! - interpret their difficulties Why your struggles as a parent might actually be an asset How to help your child build the skills they need to navigate daily life with more ease Where to start when everything feels like a battle RELATED RESOURCES: 👉 FREE from Carrie: Task Initiation Toolkit 👉 Episode 22: The Superpower Every Parent Has (And How to Use It for Good) ABOUT CARRIE BONNETT Carrie Bonnett is a veteran teacher, lifelong list-maker, and Executive Function coach based in Bend, Oregon. She works…

Cooking with kids and teens builds more than meals — it builds confidence, connection, and life skills that last. Katie Kimball, creator of Kids Cook Real Food and Teens Cook Real Food, joins Dr. Gila to talk about how cooking can be a gateway skill for kids of all ages and stages. You'll hear: Why cooking might be the most important life skill you can give your child How to get kids of any age genuinely excited about it Why cooking can be especially powerful for neurodivergent kids Tips for keeping the experience low-stress for everyone Whether you're just starting out or trying to re-engage an eye-rolling tween, there's something here for you. RELATED RESOURCES: 👉 Knife Skills for Kids 👉 Teens Cook Real Food ABOUT KATIE KIMBALL Katie Kimball of Raising Healthy Families helps change kids’ relationship to food, both through work in the kitchen and helping parents of picky eaters. She’s a former teacher, two-time TEDx speaker, writer, mom of 4 kids, and creator of the Kids Cook Real Food Course, Teens Cook…

If you give your child attention during or after a tantrum, are you rewarding the behavior and making things worse? When your child is upset and acting out, how do you offer comfort without unintentionally reinforcing the behavior? Those are the questions we’re unpacking in today’s episode. You'll hear why this advice is so common, what “working” actually means in parenting, and why the lens you use to interpret your child’s behavior changes how you respond. Related resources: ⭐️ [Episode 7] Why Kids "Lose It": What's Beneath the Big Behaviors ⭐️ [FREE guide] Tantrums, & Meltdowns, & Rages...Oh My! ＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿ ❤️ Enrollment is open for Coaching Circles! Only 3 spots per Circle. 👉 parentingwithconnection.com/circles ❤️ FREE guide: Tantrums, & Meltdowns, & Rages...Oh My! The single parent's guide to understanding challenging behaviors ＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿ CONNECT WITH DR. GILA 👉 Join the newsletter for practical parenting tips and a hefty dose of empathy, delivered straight to your inbox. 🔗 Website:…

It’s heartbreaking to watch your child struggle, whether at school or on the playground. Yet it's an all-too-common experience, especially for parents of bright and quirky kids. Today's guest shares my determination to change that! In this conversation with with Sam Young (aka “Mr. Sam”), founder of Young Scholars Academy, you'll hear about strength-based schooling, how to apply the principles at home in your parenting, and why this can be especially transformational for gifted, twice-exceptional, and neurodivergent kids. RELATED RESOURCES: 👉 Young Scholars Academy (use code "DRGILA10" for 10% off!) 👉 Free Summer Camp Open House for Young Scholars Academy ABOUT SAM YOUNG (aka "Mr. Sam") Sam Young, M.Ed., is the Head of School at Young Scholars Academy, a strength-based, virtual village that empowers gifted, twice-exceptional, and neurodivergent students to thrive! Sam is a two-time Fulbright Scholar, TEDx presenter, keynote speaker, and a neurodivergent person himself, who has committed his life to…

Ever wondered what in the world "mindfulness" actually looks like? Or how to squeeze it into your day when you barely have time to pee? This episode answers all of that...and more. In this conversation, I’m joined by Hunter Clarke-Fields (aka the "Mindful Mama") for a practical, no-fluff mini masterclass on mindfulness for busy parents. You'll hear: What mindfulness really is (and what it’s not) A realistic “minimum dose” of practice Tiny ways to weave mindfulness into chaotic days How mindfulness can help you through tantrums and meltdowns About Hunter: Hunter Clarke-Fields is the number 1 bestselling author of “Raising Good Humans” and “Raising Good Humans Every Day,” host of the Mindful Mama Podcast, global speaker, Mindfulness Meditation teacher and creator of the Mindful Parenting Course and Teacher Certification program. She has over 20 years of experience in meditation and yoga practices and has taught mindfulness to thousands worldwide. 👉 Website: https://www.mindfulmamamentor.com/ 👉 Podcast: Mindful…

If you’re a single parent juggling two adults’ worth of responsibilities, this episode is for you. In this conversation with Michelle Byrd of The Busy Vibrant Mom podcast, we talk about how to infuse productivity and joy into your day, and creating a rhythm that fits your family. ABOUT MICHELLE BYRD: Michelle Byrd is the host of a top ranked podcast for Christian working moms, The Busy Vibrant Mom. Michelle provides working moms with the tools they need so they can have more time in their day and their week to pour into their families. She specializes in offering productivity hacks, time blocking, organizational systems, purposeful parenting, and time management tools. ⭐️ Get Michelle's Productivity Planner & Time Blocking Basics ⭐️ Website: www.byrdmichelle.com ⭐️ Podcast: The Busy Vibrant Mom ⭐️ IG: @thebusyvibrantmom ＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿ ❤️ Enrollment is open for Coaching Circles! Only 3 spots per Circle. 👉 parentingwithconnection.com/circles ❤️ FREE guide: Tantrums, & Meltdowns, & Rages...Oh My! The single…

There's a superpower every parent has, whether you want it or not. (Though sometimes, it can feel more like kryptonite!) Tune into this episode to find out... ✔︎ What it is ✔︎ Why it's so powerful ✔︎ How to use it without being manipulative ✔︎ 3 specific ways to harness it for your and your child's good Resources mentioned: [Episode 2] Keeping Your Cool: Emotion Regulation for Parents [Workshop] Less Snapping, More Snuggling: Why Parents Lose It, and How to Finally Break the Cycle [Program] 💛 The Regulation Reset – a 12-week small-group program for single parents (enrollment ends February 14) ＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿ ❤️ Enrollment is open for Coaching Circles! Only 3 spots per Circle. 👉 parentingwithconnection.com/circles ❤️ FREE guide: Tantrums, & Meltdowns, & Rages...Oh My! The single parent's guide to understanding challenging behaviors ＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿ CONNECT WITH DR. GILA 👉 Join the newsletter for practical parenting tips and a hefty dose of empathy, delivered straight to your inbox. 🔗 Website:…

This bonus episode is a replay of my webinar, "Less Snapping, More Snuggling: Why Parents "Lose It"...and How to Finally Break the Cycle (For single parents (and anyone who needs one))." To watch the video of the replay, go to parentingwithconnection.com/webinar. In this special training, you'll hear: A common reason many single parents get stuck in the cycle of “snapping” at their kids, and then spiraling into shame. 3 Key ingredients for finally breaking that cycle. My signature framework that helps my clients - and their kids! - understand their nervous system’s response to stress. How this framework can help you finally be less reactive, and feel more capable of handling the tough moments in parenting (and life-ing) without “losing it” as often. You'll also hear about The Regulation Reset - my 12-week, small-group program for single parents (and anyone who feels like one). Enrollment is open through February 14. For more information, go to: 🔗 parentingwithconnection.com/reset ＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿ CONNECT WITH…

What happens when you know how you want to handle your kids' big feelings and behaviors, but your nervous system is stuck in fight-or-flight? In this episode, I’m joined by my client Sara, whose high-conflict divorce and custody battle left her struggling with the emotional and physical demands of life as a solo, working parent, and with supporting her kids through the emotional fallout. Sara shares her journey from parenting in survival mode and "walking on eggshells" with her kids, to feeling more empowered, confident, and capable of handling the realities of solo parenting. It's a candid, highly relatable story, with golden nuggets of insight and hope for parents navigating similar terrain. ＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿ ❤️ Enrollment is open for Coaching Circles! Only 3 spots per Circle. 👉 parentingwithconnection.com/circles ❤️ FREE guide: Tantrums, & Meltdowns, & Rages...Oh My! The single parent's guide to understanding challenging behaviors ＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿ CONNECT WITH DR. GILA 👉 Join the newsletter for practical parenting…

What do you do when “traditional” parenting and school strategies make things worse, and you're not sure what to do instead? In this episode, I talk with Eric, dad to an awesome, autistic kiddo with a PDA profile, about what backfired for his family...and what actually helped. You’ll hear: How even unintended pressure can escalate kids with sensitive nervous systems Why common behavior-based approaches can backfire. What actually helps when a child is in fight-or-flight. Why the most challenging, and most impactful, piece is managing your own reactivity as a parent. While we talk specifically about PDA, the insights in this episode apply to any child whose nervous system escalates under pressure, and any parent who feels like their instincts keep backfiring. ＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿ ❤️ Enrollment is open for Coaching Circles! Only 3 spots per Circle. 👉 parentingwithconnection.com/circles ❤️ FREE guide: Tantrums, & Meltdowns, & Rages...Oh My! The single parent's guide to understanding challenging behaviors ＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿＿…

How do you balance your child's need for connection with your own need for space, especially when there's no adult to "tag in"? That's just one of the questions we explore in this conversation with Ali Miller, a Single Mom by Choice and an expert in Nonviolent Communication (NVC). In this episode, you'll hear: ✔︎ The three essential principles of NVC, and how they apply to parenting. ✔︎ An open, vulnerable conversation about the challenges of parenting solo, including guilt, blame, resentment, and the power of self-compassion. ✔︎ Real-time coaching around one of Ali's ongoing challenges: Supporting her daughter's need for connection without entirely sacrificing her own needs. 👉 If snapping and shame spirals are a challenge for you too, my free webinar on Feb. 4 is designed with you in mind. Click here to learn more. ABOUT ALI MILLER, MA Ali Miller is a Single Mom by Choice, or, as she likes to call it, Sole Mom by Design. She's also an expert in Nonviolent Communication (NVC), a Couples Communication Coach,…

What’s it really like to grow up in a single-parent home shaped by grief...and deep, enduring connection? In this special episode, I’m joined by copywriting coach Marisa Corcoran and her mom, Rita Fratto — a real-life “Gilmore Girls” duo whose story offers a powerful glimpse into widowhood, single parenting, and the long-term impact on children as they grow into adulthood. This is an honest, inspiring - and fun! - conversation about life's unexpected lessons, community, resilience, chosen fam...

In the words of Julie Andrews: 🎶 Let’s start at the very beginning. A very good place to start… Tune in to hear Dr. Gila’s take on the first step to creating a more peaceful home, with less snapping, more snuggling, and the joy and ease you crave. She explains why parent self-regulation is such a powerful place to focus, especially for single parents in the thick of it. Related resources: ⭐️ [Episode 2] Keeping Your Cool: Emotion Regulation for Parents ⭐️ [Episode 6] 2 Reasons You Can't...

In this solo episode, I share five truths I come back to again and again in my parenting and my coaching, especially with single parents who are carrying a lot and quietly wondering if they’re enough. These are the truths I invite you to hold onto as we head into 2026, or whenever you need a grounding moment to exhale and re-center. And if that feels hard right now, I’m happy to hold them for you. 👉 Follow the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please share with your single-parent frie...

This week's episode is a special gift to help you through the winter holiday season, or any other stressful season of your life. Somatic psychotherapist, and my dear friend, Meg Tobin, LMHC, guides us through a tapping (EFT) tutorial and practice to soothe your nervous system, including modifications and suggestions to fit your unique needs. If you’re brand new to tapping, this episode is a gentle, no-pressure introduction. If you’ve tried it before and thought, “Yeah… not for me,...

Winter break can bring joy, pressure, and a whole lot of overwhelm, especially for single parents. This episode shares 10 realistic tips to help you navigate the holiday season with less stress and more connection. It focuses on why this time of year can feel harder, how to anticipate challenges before they spiral, and what actually helps when routines, emotions, and expectations collide. You’ll hear: How to set yourself and your child up for successWays to reduce power struggles and sensory ...

Stressed about screen time? (Who isn't?!) What you're about to hear might surprise you...and make this topic feel a lot less scary. In this episode, I'm joined by Ash Brandin, EdS, aka TheGamerEducator and author of the bestselling book, "Power On: Managing Screen Time to Benefit the Whole Family," for an eye-opening conversation that may just change how you think about screens. You'll hear: Why screen-time conflicts feel so charged, and the mindset shifts that instantly low...

If the idea of “being playful” with your kid makes you want to crawl into a cave, this episode is for you. Today, I’m talking with Mia Wisinski from Playful Heart Parenting, who has a seemingly endless bucket of low-effort, high-connection ideas for sneaking silliness into the cracks of real-life parenting… even when you’re wiped. In this episode: Why play feels so hard for so many of us adults (including me!).How to tap into even the tiniest spark of silliness when you're running on fu...

Have you had "start gratitude practice" on your to-do list for years, or get eye rolls every time you try it with your kid? You're not alone, my friend! In this solo episode, I dig into why gratitude can be powerful, why it sometimes backfires, and what to do instead, especially for single parents raising spirited or neurodivergent kids. You’ll hear: ✅ When and how gratitude practices help “train your brain” (and the key ingredient for success). ⚠️ Common pitfalls (think: to...

Why does your kid push back so hard, even over simple stuff? And how can you break free of these battles so life doesn't feel like a trek through molasses? Power struggles may be the bane of your existence, but they're also a glimpse into your kid's brain. Join me, Dr. Gila, and my guest, Dr. Danika Maddocks, an expert in parenting gifted and twice-exceptional (2e) kids, for a deep dive into this incredibly common (and incredibly frustrating!) parenting challenge. In this episode:...

If you’ve ever been scared by your child's aggressive behaviors, or hopeless that things will ever change, this episode is for you. Join me for a chat with Tosha Schore about: The 3 things every parent needs to understand about aggression in kids What aggression is really telling youHow to interrupt the shame-and-secrecy cycleA first step to help you feel less stuck and more connectedResources: ⭐️ Listen: Five Simple Tools to Meet Your Everyday Parenting Challenges, by ...

Tantrums, and meltdowns, and rages...oh my! Big behaviors mean big stress for the whole family. If you’re tired of walking on eggshells, wondering when and why your kid is going to "lose it," this episode is for you. Dr. Gila breaks down what’s really happening beneath the surface when kids have big reactions, and how understanding those moments can transform the way you respond. You’ll walk away with a clearer picture of what your child’s behavior is trying to tell you, and what you ca...

You’ve done the deep breathing and tried every self-regulation trick in the book...So why does single-parenting still feel so freaking hard?! In this episode, Dr. Gila shares two often overlooked pieces of the puzzle, and why a parent's self-regulation, while essential, isn’t the whole answer (especially when single-parenting a strong-willed or neurodivergent child!). Tune in to hear: • The limits of self-regulation (and why that’s not your fault) • How to find acceptance without giving up ...

Can kids form secure attachments in single-parent families? Or are they..."screwed"? In this compassionate conversation, I chat with therapist, mediator, and award-winning author, Aurisha Smolarski, LMFT, to answer the quiet fear that nearly every single parent has. We unpack attachment theory and resilience (without the jargon!), and how to help kids feel safe and seen, even when co-parenting is hard or non-existent. You’ll hear us explore: What secure attachment really looks lik...

Co-parenting with a high-conflict ex is exhausting, especially when you still have to coordinate about your kids. In this conversation, I’m joined by therapist and divorce coach Jill Kaufman, creator of Thriving Through Divorce and author of I’m Getting Divorced, Now What?. We talk about practical ways to lower the drama, protect your peace, and keep the focus on your child — starting with a simple, powerful framework for communication that actually moves things forward. Connect with Jill Kau...

Parent burnout is real, and it’s not just about being tired. In this powerful conversation with Low-Demand Parenting author Amanda Diekman, we explore what parent burnout really means, and how to find your way back to yourself. If you’ve been running on empty or wondering how to keep going when you’re already at your limit, this one’s for you. Connect with Amanda Diekman: Amanda is a late diagnosed PDA autistic adult, parent coach, and author of the book Low Demand Parenting, published July 2...

Snapping at your kids more than you’d like? Or do they keep "losing it," with tantrums and meltdowns that seem to come out of nowhere and leave you walking on eggshells? In this episode, I share my signature framework for understanding emotion regulation (for both you and your child). It’s a simple visual and a powerful tool for kids and adults alike. And it just might change how you see yourself and your child. For your free guide to understanding tantrums and meltdowns, go to ww...

Welcome to your shame-free corner of the podcast world: A space for single parents (or anyone who feels like one) to feel seen and supported as you navigate this beautifully bumpy journey. Whether you're raising a strong-willed, spirited, or neurodivergent kid, or you're simply craving validation, guidance, and community, you're in the right place. In this premiere episode of the podcast: Discover what this podcast is (compassionate, science-backed support) and isn’t (control-based pare...

Welcome to Single-Parenting with Connection (NOT Perfection): The podcast for single parents (and anyone who feels like one). 👉 Divorced, widowed, solo by choice, partnered but doing it all yourself, or somewhere in between? You’re in the right place. 👉 Parenting a strong-willed, spirited, or neurodivergent kid? I’ve got you. I’m your host, Dr. Gila (rhymes with tequila). I'm a single mom myself, a certified parenting coach, psychologist and neuropsychologist, and speaker and educator. And...