Shows
What Fresh Hell: Laughing in the Face of Motherhood | Parenting Tips From Funny MomsFresh Take: Danielle Bettmann on Positive DisciplineAmy and Margaret talk with parenting coach Danielle Bettmann, host of the Failing Motherhood podcast. Danielle specializes in helping parents of strong-willed and neurodivergent kids implement positive discipline—a proven, research-based approach that’s both kind and firm.
Danielle breaks down:
What “positive discipline” really means (and what it’s not)
Why traditional approaches like time-outs, yelling, and sticker charts backfire with sensitive or strong-willed children
How to mirror your child’s emotions and validate without giving in
How to co-parent with consistency, even when you and your partner are on diffe...
2025-07-1139 min
Failing Motherhood200. My #1 Mantra + Mindset ShiftHappy 5th Anniversary of Failing Motherhood!Welcome to the LAST episode, #200.If there's one thing I will be known for, let it be this mindset shift. And in this episode, I don't just explain it, but I share a clip from a coaching call where we apply it in real time to a common frustration.IN THIS EPISODE I SHARED:How to recognize when you're having "first thoughts"Creative ways to problem solve struggles with cleaning up their own thingsHow to take your power back + no longer feel...
2025-05-2021 min
Failing Motherhood197. 3 of 3: Therapy, Marriage Counseling, 1:1 Coaching + Virtual Parenting Programs/MembershipsWelcome back!This is the 3rd of 3 episodes breaking down the vast array of parenting resources we have at our fingertips. Today we’re talking: personal therapy, marriage counseling, one-off or 1:1 parenting coaching, and virtual parenting programs / memberships.For each, I break down the family that resource is BEST for, the benefits it provides, the unique Pros and Cons of utilizing that support vs. another, and ultimately, for some, the way they fall short. IN THIS EPISODE I SHARED:What a therapist will never tell youWhy 1:1 coaching actually tak...
2025-04-2938 min
Failing Motherhood196. 2 of 3: OT, PCIT, Play Therapy + Seeing a PsychologistWelcome back!This is the 2nd of 3 episodes breaking down the vast array of parenting resources we have at our fingertips. Today we’re talking: Occupational Therapy, Parent Child Interaction Therapy, Child Therapy (play therapy) and seeing a Psychologist.For each, I break down the family that resource is BEST for, the benefits it provides, the unique Pros and Cons of utilizing that support vs. another, and ultimately for some, the way they fall short. IN THIS EPISODE I SHARED:When play therapy would most benefit your childWhy PCI...
2025-04-2241 min
Failing Motherhood195. 1 of 3: Parenting Content, Books, Courses + ClassesWelcome to my VERSUS series!This is the 1st of 3 episodes breaking down the vast array of parenting resources we have at our fingertips. Today we’re talking: parenting content, parenting courses & books, and in-person parenting classes.For each, I break down the family that resource is BEST for, the benefits it provides, the unique Pros and Cons of utilizing that support vs. another, and ultimately for some, the way they fall short. IN THIS EPISODE I SHARED:Why it’s extra hard to implement strategies from a bookT...
2025-04-1539 min
Failing Motherhood194. Setting Boundaries without Pressure + PanicWhat does it even look like to set + hold good boundaries?Boundaries can feel like an illusive mystery. Our preconceived notions of what we should be doing can create really rigid metrics for succeeding or failing, when in all actuality, there’s often no right or wrong!Today’s discussion includes validating the intention to “find the line”, why boundaries isn’t a binary but rather a spectrum, and the mindset reframes needed to be more effective and successful while still allowing for exceptions to the rule. IN THIS EPISODE I SHARED:
2025-04-0818 min
Failing Motherhood193. Accidentally Inviting the Outcomes You're Trying to AvoidWell that backfired!When we parent out of fear, our short-sighted reactions can add fuel to the fire. This can create unintended consequences, like MORE helplessness, MORE sibling resentment, and MORE attention-seeking.In this episode, I cover where this starts, two extremely common examples, and what to do instead.IN THIS EPISODE I SHARED:The Boomerang Effect: What you push away, comes back full forceA parallel to the movie- Monsters, Inc.The "Veruca Salt" mentality we're all afraid ofDON'T MISS:How the best...
2025-04-0120 min
Failing Motherhood191. Silly over SeriousDoes it ever feel like your strong-willed child SNAPS and turns into someone else entirely? Like an alter ego took over?You’re now walking on eggshells trying to diffuse a bomb before it explodes. There are two wires, which one do you cut?Choose SILLY over SERIOUS. IN THIS EPISODE I SHARED:A situation in college you’d have handled in a similar wayThe ramifications of doubling down on seriousnessWays to inform your mindset that boost your patience and compassionDON'T MISS:Several examp...
2025-03-1833 min
Failing Motherhood189. Intentionally IndulgeWhat do bad mornings, clingy birthday parties, fighting playdates and candy on the way home from school all have in common?Instead of doubling down to invite the meltdown or giving in to avoid it… there’s a better way!These are all situations where you, as the parent, can intentionally indulge. Tune in to learn how. IN THIS EPISODE I SHARED:Ways to shift from being reactive to proactive, getting one step ahead of your childWhy “intentionally indulging” works so wellHow to compromise to get mor...
2025-03-0421 min
Failing Motherhood187. 7 Ways to Beat the Bedtime BluesMost strong-willed kids struggle with sleep, so if bedtime feels like neverending pulling teeth at your house, join the club!While I'm always going to advocate for nuance and individualization, confidence comes from having a diverse set of tools in your backpocket, so this episode is here to help you have a few more "tricks" up your sleeve.Here's to a shorter bedtime routine for the kids and more time for revenge bedtime procrastination for the adults! :)IN THIS EPISODE I SHARED:Why you might need to...
2025-02-1827 min
Failing Motherhood185. Going Beyond Good IntentionsCan you imagine setting a New Years resolution, watching healthy living content and going to a class where they teach you why you should exercise and expecting to lose weight without ever working out?NO! We know getting stronger requires taking action.In the same way, working on your parenting requires implementation, not just intentions.IN THIS EPISODE I SHARED:Ways immersive learning experiences transform parenting skillsWhy it's impossible to grow stronger while "malnourished" and what to do about itThe role of structured support in achieving parenting goals
2025-02-0421 min
Failing Motherhood182. 5 Top Tips for Making Weekends Easier on EveryoneIf all your weekend plans seem held hostage by your strong-willed child’s mood, you’re not alone.In this episode, I name the extra challenges you face on the weekend and specific strategies to tackle them for good, unlocking actual freedom and possibilities to be spontaneous or just enjoy each other and relax! IN THIS EPISODE I SHARED:Why what we think we want isn’t what we actually wantTwo goals to go into every weekend withHow to stop power struggles before they startDON'T MISS:Powerfu...
2025-01-1426 min
Failing Motherhood180. It's OK to Walk Away + What to Do When You Can'tWe all dread it - the inevitable meltdown of EPIC proportions. It’s survival mode, and no one is immune.In this episode, I share why I disagree with typical advice (and even Dr. Becky) on how to manage these meltdowns/outbursts, why it’s OK to walk away, and what to do when you can’t. IN THIS EPISODE I SHARED:An analogy to help illustrate your responsibilityWhy staying WITH your child might actually backfireHow to “leave” the room without physically leavingDON'T MISS:Mantras to adopt that...
2024-12-1726 min
Failing Motherhood179. 7 Steps to a Successful Holiday with a Strong-Willed ChildThe holiday season is upon us filled with changes, anticipation, late nights, unfamiliar meals, sweets, high emotions, extra tasks and stress.Your strong-willed child will understandably have an even harder time navigating all of this unpredictability, triggers, and lack of routine.Tune in to hear my 7 steps to a more successful holiday season for the whole family! IN THIS EPISODE I SHARED:What to say NO to and whyCritical mindset shifts that allow you to prevent rather than reactHow to manage the inevitable jealousy and lack of etiquette/appreciation
2024-12-1024 min
Failing Motherhood177. How to Tag In/Out with your Partner with Dignity + CompassionNo couple goes into parenting as a perfectly united front. Every parent runs out of steam, hits a wall, and loses it from time to time. Good parents ask good questions like “How can I help my partner when things are going off the rails without stepping on their toes?”Before you hop in the car and start parenting extra challenging behaviors in front of extended family this holiday season, have this important conversation with your partner to set you both up for much more success. IN THIS EPISODE I SHARED:The...
2024-11-2622 min
How To Get Your Toddler To Sleep In A Big Kid BedToddler Meltdowns, Tantrums, BIG Emotions | Interview with Danielle BettmannToday is a special episode. I will be discussing toddler meltdowns, tantrums, and the BIG EMOTIONS young kids experience with parenting coach, Danielle Bettmann, from Parenting Wholeheartedly.Danielle is a parenting coach who helps the parents of strong-willed children like their kids again. 💗 She is the founder of PARENTING WHOLEHEARTEDLY and has a podcast called FAILING MOTHERHOOD, full of great parenting tips and relatable stories.So if you deal with big emotions from your child at all times of day, not just bedtime, listen to this episode.
2024-11-1945 min
Failing Motherhood176. The Antidote for Shame + GuiltThere is something ALL parenting books are missing. You cannot fake it. There is no substitute. It is transformational.…and it’s the critical antidote to guilt + shame.If you’ve tried EVERYTHING under the sun- this might be the reason why you’ve stayed stuck. And it’s more needed than ever before. IN THIS EPISODE I SHARED:What my daughter’s violin teacher did that changed the game for me as a parentThe real reason why my coaching wasn’t helping familiesWhy a healthy sense of skepticism is w...
2024-11-1921 min
Failing Motherhood175. NO REGRETSOne of my kids just received a diagnosis. It was 10 years in the making because school was not seeing any of the symptoms we saw at home until now.In light of this milestone for our family, I’m sharing a personal reflection of my own parenting. As parenting is often filled with confusion, overwhelm, guilt and regret… here are things I do NOT regret.IN THIS EPISODE I SHARED:A vulnerable audit of my own parentingWhat to do if your child is too young to be diagnosed with ADHD but...
2024-11-1208 min
Failing MotherhoodVOTEElection day in the US is in 21 days (Tuesday, November 5th). Early voting has already began! As parents, our kids are counting on us. Every vote counts, especially in the smallest races and ballot initiatives, shaping the world our kids grow up in.I do not expect you to agree with everything (or anything) I share here today and that's okay. I just want you to vote!IN THIS EPISODE I SHARED:Things you can't know about your family's futureA memory I'm afraid to admitConcepts that are allowed to...
2024-10-1515 min
Failing Motherhood169. The Problem with ObedienceWhen other kids at the park instantly listen to their parents, it can make even the most well-intentioned parent feel self-conscious (and a little jealous).Isn’t that the goal? A child who listens without hesitation?Let’s talk about it.IN THIS EPISODE I SHARED:The longterm ramifications of putting obedience on a pedestalWhat to focus on and aim for insteadA question to ask yourself to reflect on your approachDON'T MISS:The limiting factor that makes all of this extra challenging with strong-willed kids!
2024-10-0116 min
Failing Motherhood167. "Hold the Football": A Behavior Modification ToolIn today's quick episode, I break down a key facet to behavior modification I've been supporting a lot of clients with lately! It’s not a surefire guarantee toward cupcakes, rainbows and butterflies - but it is necessary shift in your communication that doesn’t contribute to a crash and burn affect.IN THIS EPISODE I SHARED:2 Examples of effective behavior modification outside of parentingWhat the "Hold the Football" Tool is and why it's criticalHow to apply this tool when a sibling is being pestered in the carDON'T MISS...
2024-09-1712 min
Failing Motherhood165. After School Restraint CollapseIt's that time of year, when your strong-willed child keeps it together all day at school then lets it all fall apart with you the second they get in the car.I packed this episode full of perspective, mindset shifts, tangible strategies and preventative measures to equip you with the "game face" you need to tackle this transition.IN THIS EPISODE I SHARED:How to meet them where they're at while still setting boundariesWhy saying "Stop." "Don't" or "Calm down" won't work and what will insteadQuestions to ask instead of "how was...
2024-09-0321 min
Moms Overcoming Overwhelm | Decluttering Tips, Declutter, Systems, Routines for Moms, Home Organization150 // Decluttering the Unrealistic Expectations of Motherhood - with Danielle Bettmann from Parenting WholeheartedlyImagine this scene: You’re shopping in Target with one child pulling on your leg and the other grabbing random items off the shelves, wailing, “PLEEEEASE Mommy can I have this?” An elderly woman in the same aisle smiles at you and says, “You’re going to miss this, dear! The days are long but the years are short!”
Or imagine that you buy a parenting book about a discipline approach that your sister-in-law raves about, but when you try it at home it just makes you feel uneasy. But it’s all you’re seeing on your Instagram a...
2024-08-2934 minMoms Overcoming Overwhelm | Decluttering Tips, Declutter, Systems, Routines for Moms, Home Organization150 // Decluttering the Unrealistic Expectations of Motherhood - with Danielle Bettmann from Parenting WholeheartedlyImagine this scene: You’re shopping in Target with one child pulling on your leg and the other grabbing random items off the shelves, wailing, “PLEEEEASE Mommy can I have this?” An elderly woman in the same aisle smiles at you and says, “You’re going to miss this, dear! The days are long but the years are short!”
Or imagine that you buy a parenting book about a discipline approach that your sister-in-law raves about, but when you try it at home it just makes you feel uneasy. But it’s all you’re seeing on your Instagram a...
2024-08-2934 min
Failing Motherhood164. Surviving Until or Without Qualifying for a Diagnosis [Danielle on Moms Talk Autism]A special gift for you this week, courtesy of our friends at Moms Talk Autism. Not only did they join me for last week’s episode, but they interviewed me on their show and were kind enough to share it with our audience so I could share it here.My work specializes in helping families who are struggling with Neurodivergent traits in their child but don’t have a diagnosis yet or whose child does not meet the criteria for a specific diagnosis.In this episode of Moms Talk Autism, I share what trai...
2024-08-2757 min
Moms Talk Autism PodcastFailing Motherhood w/ Danielle BettmannFellow podcaster and Parenting Coach, Danielle Bettmann, is our guest in this week’s episode. Danielle helps parents of strong-willed children meet their kids’ deepest core needs, improve behavior, and find new levels of patience. As a mom of two, Danielle is passionate about eliminating shame from parents’ vocabulary, solving power struggles, and transitioning from school to home and back again. Danielle specializes in helping families who are struggling but don’t have a diagnosis yet or whose child does not meet the criteria for a specific diagnosis. We loved chatting with Danielle and hope this conversation is a helpful...
2024-08-1957 min
Failing Motherhood162. They Don't Hate YOU, They Hate...Have you ever been told, "I HATE YOU" by your child? Or even worse "You're not coming to my birthday party!"Parents of strong-willed kids (esp. mom) can become the scapegoat for the anger they harbor, and it can lead to parents hearing things like “You don’t love me”.This often causes a spiral into permissiveness to avoid conflict, anxiety, and/or a lot of self-doubt as a parent.Spoiler Alert: They don’t hate you. They hate feeling crazy and all alone with their BIG emotions. And we do too.
2024-08-1316 min
Failing Motherhood160. Cherish Every Moment . . . OR NOT.Parents are inundated with messages from complete strangers on the Internet and in person reiterating "You're going to miss this!" "It goes SO fast!" "The mess can wait!"The problem is... sometimes the mess can't wait, you might NOT miss this stage, or there's so much more to look forward to!Let's stop forcing undue pressure on parents and instead, consider the hope and gratitude in a more longterm approach.IN THIS EPISODE I SHARED:A viral post and a well-written rebuttal The lies I believed and what I b...
2024-06-1825 min
Failing Motherhood157. They know better than this!You're 100% right. They do know better. These are smart kids we're talking about here, nothing gets past them!So, if that's true, why are they still hitting, pushing, screaming, or whathaveyou? Explaining the rules for the 1,456th time isn't going to solve anything.What will? Tune in with curiosity.IN THIS EPISODE, I SHARE...The truth behind two incredibly common misconceptionsThe painful sting of regret that's oh, too familiarHow it feels when the tables have turnedDON'T MISS:Why it's problematic to tell your ch...
2024-05-2822 min
Failing Motherhood155. 5 Lessons in 5 years of EntrepreneurshipFailing Motherhood is 4 years old and Wholeheartedly is 5! We’re taking this opportunity to reflect on the last two years and the lessons I’ve learned - some easily, some the hard way.Entrepreneurship is such a similar journey to parenting - you don’t know what you’re getting into exactly, it’s much harder than anticipated, it requires a lot of self-work and growth, and it’s riddled with self-doubt and imposter syndrome. You have to take it one day at a time and make new decisions with every piece of new information.Take the...
2024-05-1434 min
Failing Motherhood153. 2 Mistakes Well-Intentioned Parents MakeThis week we’re taking parenting tips from Hello Fresh!In ways you may not have realized, being a parent is sort of like working in customer service. In our case, the customer isn’t always right, but the way we handle conflict may invite our child to ask for our manager! :)Your goal as a parent is to build credibility and trust in your “brand” rather than bad reviews! As I reveal the two mistakes well-intentioned parents make, you'll be invited to reflect on your default reaction and formulate a balanced response instead.
2024-04-3028 min
Failing Motherhood152. GLOW UP: Feel Better In Your Body Without Changing ItFor the past 6 months I’ve had the opportunity to work on my relationship with my body- no procedures, no weight loss, no supplements, just selecting and being more mindful of how I’m dressing myself and how it makes me feel.In today’s episode I break down what kicked off the journey, the milestones along the way, and the absolute game-changer that sealed the deal!This episode is for you if you know your appearance has taken a back seat to your kids, and more self-love is on your list this season....
2024-04-2329 min
Weaning It: A podcast for toddler nursing moms6. Is My Nursing Toddler Strong-Willed? With Danielle BettmannStrong-willed children have a deeply rooted need to feel connected and in control.
In the toddler breastfeeding relationship, this can create a recipe for burnout as you try to meet your child's demands for milk. Learning strategies that can help you stay connected while also keeping loving boundaries is key to finding a balance in the relationship.
Danielle Bettmann is a Positive-Discipline certified parenting coach who empowers parents to crack the code of their strong-willed child's personality, meet their deepest core needs to improve their behavior, and find new...
2024-04-181h 02
Failing Motherhood147. The 3 Types of Parents of Strong-Willed KidsWhich one are you? Which one is your partner?Not only does the second half of your parenting life begin when you understand you're parenting a strong-willed child, but your self awareness sky rockets when you realize you're a Worrying Warrior.Your next step is to evaluate whether you're parenting with a "Just tell me what to do" parent or an "It is what it is" parent.In this episode, I break down each of these three parenting approaches, the motives behind their actions, and wedge of divide that grows between parents that f...
2024-03-1927 minHow To Get Your Toddler To Sleep In A Big Kid BedHow to handle toddler meltdowns, tantrums and other BIG emotions - with Parent Coach, Danielle BettmannToday is a special episode. I will be discussing toddler meltdowns, tantrums, and the BIG EMOTIONS young kids experience with parenting coach, Danielle Bettmann, from Parenting Wholeheartedly.Danielle is a parenting coach who helps the parents of strong-willed children like their kids again. 💗 She is the founder of PARENTING WHOLEHEARTEDLY and has a podcast of her own called FAILING MOTHERHOOD, full of great parenting tips and relatable stories.So if you deal with big emotions from your child at all times of day, not just bedtime, listen to this epi...
2024-03-1245 min
Failing Motherhood145. Don't Insist on an ApologySay you're sorry. "I'M SORRY! GAAHHH!!" they ROAR from the other room. Lessons were learned, right? Often when parenting strong-willed kids, the messages we're trying to send, the skills we're trying to model and the lessons we're trying to teach get lost at sea in a battle of control and BIG emotions.Instead of checking the box to make ourselves feel better, I'm breaking down why I don't insist my kids apologize and what we do instead.IN THIS EPISODE, I SHARED...Why especially strong-willed k...
2024-03-0519 min
Failing Motherhood143. How TO (and NOT to) Use Timers with Strong-Willed KidsHave you found using timers at your house to be HIT or MISS?Either it helps tremendously or meltdowns ensue? What gives?I'm breaking it all down on today's episode- both the DO's and DON'T's so you understand exactly what's needed to make your use of timers as effective as possible.Not only do I share key insight into reducing whining, clinging, and complaining, but visual timers are your friend, and it's all about semantics so your child sees the "what's in it for me" factor!IN THIS E...
2024-02-2021 min
Failing Motherhood140. Challenging Common Fears When Raising Strong-Willed KidsWhat if it's not what you think it is? Two weeks ago I listed the 11 most common fears/challenges experienced by parents of strong-willed kids. In this episode I address each one.The work is in NOT letting these fears take hold of the way you parent, but rather gain awareness and understanding while you get to the bottom of what's really going on.Listen to that episode first, then circle back here for the freedom to zoom out and let some fears go entirely.IN THIS EPISODE, I SHARED...
2024-01-3023 min
Failing Motherhood138. The 11 Most Common Fears/Challenges of Parenting a Strong-Willed ChildHard, frustrating, exhausting - is an understatement. Your lived experience as a parent of a strong-willed child is one many can't understand, including yourself sometimes!There are very real dynamics, fears, and perceptions that make showing up moment to moment extremely difficult, and it's impossible to solve for them without being able to name them first. This episode is going to give words for what you haven't yet had words to describe.IN THIS EPISODE, I SHARED...Proof you're not the only one late night Googling and stressing ab...
2024-01-1623 min
Failing Motherhood136. Decluttering TOYS: A Guilt-Free Guide to LESSTis the season for under-stimulated kids, over-stimulated parents, an influx of gifts and stuff everywhere! If you have the urge to throw everything away right now, you’re not alone!If you’d love to have LESS at your house but feel guilty for getting rid of perfectly good (educational even!) toys, this episode is for you.Today I’m sharing the benefits of less toys for you and your kid(s), your goals to set out and attain, and I break down the steps to take to go through things one shelf at a ti...
2024-01-0248 min
Failing Motherhood132. How to Be the CALM to Your Strong-Willed Child's Storm: Moving Beyond Theories to Application with Omaya + AndrewParents to a 4-year-old strong-willed son and an almost 2 year-old daughter, Omaya + Andrew are here to share the biggest mindset shifts they internalized that made it possible for them to go from constantly splitting up their family to avoid setting off their strong-willed child to watching their sibling relationship thrive and taking both kids hiking as a solo parent! They reflected on what they've done well to parent together as true partners, processing the information in real time and tagging each other out in the moment. But most importantly, they hope by hearing t...
2023-11-281h 06
Failing Motherhood131. Best GIFTS for Strong-Willed Kids (unconventional, practical and long-lasting ideas that are still fun to open!)No matter the occasion, when buying a gift for the kid(s) in your life, you want to WOW them without breaking the bank or seeing your investments lying in the "toy graveyard" 2 months from now, taking up space or making a mess, never to be played with again. I GOT YOU!I've compiled a huge list of mostly unconventional items your strong-willed child will lose their mind for, and continue playing with for months or years to come! They're not super expensive, they're not super messy, they're not annoying, and they still retain th...
2023-11-2137 min
Seven Figure Builder ShowNavigating Parenting Your Strong-Willed Child with Danielle BettmannEver wonder how to foster better communication and connection with your strong-willed child? Parenting coach, Danielle Bettmann, joins our conversation today to share her expert insights. We're speaking about the joys and challenges of raising these passionate little humans, and Danielle brings with her a wealth of practical strategies and tools to help us navigate this parenting roller coaster.Facing the emotional ups and downs of strong-willed children can be daunting, but Danielle guides us through with practical tips and tools. We discuss how to use positive discipline strategies, from defusing emotional battles to creating effective communication...
2023-11-1436 min
Failing Motherhood129. BEST Books for Strong-Willed KidsThink of literally anything. There's a fantastic children's book on it!Books can be used to meet your strong-willed child's need for control through a power reversal role, as well as teach them important social-emotional life skills!I've compiled 29 of my very favorite books I highly recommend to my clients, and have categorized them by - Offers Control, BIG Emotions, Best for Toddlers and Skill Building.While they are linked to an Amazon wishlist below, feel free to reserve and rent them from your local library!//
2023-11-0730 min
Failing Motherhood127. The 3 D's of Lasting Change: Does Your Family Have What It Takes?It's HARD + SCARY to unlearn, re-learn, and teach new ways of being with your child as a united front with your partner, improve your child's behavior, and become more and more confident by the day (ESPECIALLY with strong-willed kids)!What sets the families apart that succeed in truly changing their lives for good?There's much more insight to be gleaned from the actual journey toward growth than from anything to do with the power struggle that happened at breakfast this morning.Today I'm breaking down the questions I ask to determine...
2023-10-2421 min
Failing Motherhood125. 11 Reasons Why Gentle Parenting Feels Impossible to ImplementGIVE YOURSELF A BREAK FOR GOODNESS SAKE!There are likely more than a handful of very legit reasons why doing this hard thing feels even harder for you right now. Are you aware of them enough to know how to overcome them?IN THIS EPISODE, I SHARED...Often underestimated, proven ways your progress has been held back Why some of the approaches you've been working so hard to implement aren't working at allHow learning more in some ways does more of a disservice than a benefitDON'T MISS:...
2023-10-1031 min
Peaceful WorldschoolingEpisode 45: Parenting the Strong-Willed Child with Danielle BettmannToday on the Peaceful Worldschooling Podcast, I have the privilege and honor of introducing you to DANIELLE BETTMANN.
Danielle is has her bachelor's in Child Development + Education from Birth-Grade 3 with teaching certification. She taught Head Start, Early Head Start and was a home visitor for Save the Children for a program called Early Steps to School Success. She was also an in-home childcare provider alongside a colleague for a little while before leading a large mom's group.
She's certified as a Positive Discipline parent educator and has been working directly with parents locally and virtually now for ...
2023-10-0356 min
Failing Motherhood123. Good Cop / Bad Cop: The Broken Record RelationshipThis episode goes out to every family that is trying to break the cycle and feels like it might break their marriage.There's a vicious cycle that plays itself out over and over like a broken record in these dynamics in ways that account for the inevitable stress on your relationship that is parenting a strong-willed child. Not only does this episode shed light on the unseen contributors and look at it in new ways, but it points out two proven ways to put an end to this dynamic between you for good.
2023-09-2630 min
Failing Motherhood122. Breakthroughs + International Travel with our Strong-Willed Child with James + VanessaParents to boys age 7 + 4, Vanessa + James, are here to be completely honest with you about how they've gone from regretting their decision to have kids, to enjoying international travel with them, tantrum-free. They ended up sharing a powerful story about a recent trip they took that drove home so much of the perspective that we need to be compassionate with our kids and their need to make sense of the world. But most importantly, you'll get to hear how they think, which is one of the most powerful impacts of working with a m...
2023-09-191h 09
Failing Motherhood120. Whining + Screaming: MAKE IT STOPIn nearly every coaching conversation this week this topic was brought up so it only made sense to talk about it here!I break down what's happening if your child is using this behavior often, how to get ahead of it and how to break free of it by putting it in a box!IN THIS EPISODE, I SHARED...The two likely elements at play when a child is whiningStrategies to eliminate the need for the behaviorHow to talk it out without escalationDON'T MISS:Why it's more...
2023-08-2918 min
Failing Motherhood118. Break the Cycle (Not the One You're Thinking Of)While you may be breaking generational cycles, today I'm going to open your eyes to a new cycle you might not even know you're perpetuating.I've been taking ferocious notes during a new favorite show and I've compiled the key takeaways for you here!IN THIS EPISODE, I SHARED...How you may be inadvertently encouraging your child's negative behavior (it's NOT by being permissive!)The messages behind attention-seeking and power-seeking behaviorsWays to break free of the vicious cycle and eliminate problem behaviors for goodDON'T MISS:How...
2023-08-1536 min
Failing Motherhood116. Is My Child Strong-Willed? Spirited? Highly Sensitive? Spicy? Deeply Feeling? ADHD? Who Knows?!Unfortunately, your child did not come home stamped from the hospital with the care instructions they need based on their particular temperament."Throwing spaghetti at the wall and seeing what sticks" likely feels more accurate! If you've been struggling with your child and traditional discipline approaches just aren't landing... you feel like there's something different about them than their siblings or friends, but it feels like you're nearly the only one who sees it... today's episode is going to finally make all of that make sense!IN THIS EPISODE, I...
2023-08-0132 min
Failing Motherhood114. Your Parenting "Report Card": How to Know if You're *Actually* Failing or NotThere are so many reasons to feel insecure, guilt, shame or fear as a parent. How do you know if you're doing okay or if you need to make a change?If your child’s behavior is not your report card, what is?In today's episode I share 3 questions to navigate that help you decide for yourself and your family what the right next step is for you. Many times it's simply letting an expectation go, forgetting about that unsolicited advice, and allowing other families to parent differently than you.Use these questions al...
2023-07-1832 min
Failing Motherhood112. How to STOP Walking on Eggshells with Jaclyn + RyanFrom 3 meltdowns/DAY to 2/WEEK! THAT'S A 90% DECREASE! Parents of 2 kids ages 3 + under, Jaclyn + Ryan, are SPILLING THE BEANS - sharing all sorts of insider secrets, insight and advice after graduating my program, Wholeheartedly CALM!I pick their brain, digging for what takeaways stuck with them, how their mindset shifted, and how different life is now, including NO LONGER walking on eggshells.IN THIS EPISODE, WE COVERED...The "Game-Changers" they attribute their success toWhat they thought it'd be like VS. What it wa...
2023-06-271h 09
Failing Motherhood111. Why are they SO ANGRY?!When your child's anger scares you, you often don't know where to turn next.Where are they learning this MEAN behavior? Do they need a therapist? Do they have ADHD? WHY are they SO angry?!You've explained "we don't hit" 1,000X, so when aggressive behavior continues past age 4... you have no patience for it (understandably). You end up walking on eggshells, trying to stay ahead of it, never knowing what might set them off next.IN THIS EPISODE, I SHARE...Why anger is so BIG in s...
2023-06-2019 min
MOMFITS2 E22 "How to Parent Strong-willed kids differently to cultivate cooperation without losing your mind!" Danielle Bettmann"The only person you should compare yourself to is the person you were yesterday."
3 takeaways:
1. AN IDENTITY SHIFT - Embracing the realization that they are a parent of a strong-willed child (a.k.a. a "Worrying Warrior") that deserves support.2. VALIDATION - That they're not crazy, parenting their child is HARD, they're not alone and there is hope!3. INSIGHT - A deeper understanding of the traits of a strong-willed child and the 5 misconceptions they might've unknowingly been ascribing to that's been holding them back from the home life and relationship...
2023-06-0950 min
Failing Motherhood109. 10 Things Parents of Strong-Willed Kids Are Afraid to AdmitShame lives in the darkness; in the silence - the things unsaid. Freedom is found in honesty, vulnerability, and a round of "me too!"Parents of strong-willed kids bear a heavy burden when parenting feels exhausting, relenting, challenging, frustrating, and defeating on a daily basis. Today I break down 10 things parents are afraid to admit, and why it's 100% okay for them to feel that way.IN THIS EPISODE, I SHARE...Things that feel so cringe to say out loud but are true nonethelessThe paradox felt between the guilt of overreacting a...
2023-06-0617 min
Failing Motherhood108. 10X Your Influence with this Paradigm Shift in your Parenting4 Steps. 1 Takeaway Message. Rewrite them + multiply the effectiveness of your parenting tenfold!NO Strong-Willed Child required.Worth sending to your partner!IN THIS EPISODE, I SHARE...How to flip your parenting from "typical" to "intentional"Insight into the message your child's receiving from youHow to zoom out and make sense of shifting your approach entirelyDON'T MISS:A new way of looking at the parenting you experienced as a child// CONNECT WITH DANIELLE //Website: parentingwholeheartedly.comIG...
2023-05-3124 min
TAKING THE HELM with Lynn McLaughlinEp 121: Danielle Bettmann | Parenting Strong-Willed Kids: Unlocking Your Child's Potential
Introducing the powerhouse parenting coach for parents of strong-willed kids, Danielle Bettmann! Danielle is a Positive Discipline - certified parent educator with years of experience as a teacher and home visitor with a degree in early childhood development from birth - age 8. She is also a mom to two daughters, wife of 13 years to her high-school sweetheart, and host of the well-loved podcast, Failing Motherhood. She empowers parents to crack the code of their strong-willed child's personality, meet their deepest core needs to improve their behavior, and find new levels of patience. Instead of inadvertently inviting defiance by using...
2023-05-2456 min
Failing Motherhood106. A Step-by-Step Guide to Feeling Like You're FailingDisclaimer: EVERYTHING IN THIS EPISODE IS SARCASM :)For a fun take on why some of the ways we think and act are ABSURD, I compiled 11 random ways to most definitely and without question feel like you're FAILING at parenting + motherhood.IN THIS EPISODE, I SHARE...Insight into ways you might be thinking you don't realizeHow to take the weight off your shoulders + find self-compassionNew awareness around how to shift into more helpful next stepsDON'T MISS:How to overthink everything + overload your brain :)// CONNECT...
2023-05-1615 min
Mama Work It PodcastParenting Strong-Willed Kids with Danielle BettmannGot strong-willed kids or just need some parenting tips? This episode’s for you.This week on the Mama Work It podcast, I interviewed Danielle Bettmann, Positive Discipline certified parent educator, podcast host, and a mom to two daughters. Danielle shares her experience and perspective on empowering parents to crack the code of their strong-willed child's personality and meet their deepest core needs to improve their behavior and your relationship.Here's what you’ll get out of today’s episode:How to determine if you are a parent of a strong-willed childWhat are the misconc...
2023-05-0332 min
Failing Motherhood104. When to Seek Help: What to Measure + How to Track ProgressEvery kid has meltdowns. Every parent yells. How do you know if you're on the right track? Especially when you feel like your child's behavior might be *normal*, it's hard to know when to reach out without feeling like you're overreacting. And if you've already done a lot of work on your parenting, how can you know when something needs to change?IN THIS EPISODE, I SHARE...When to come to conclusions (and when not to)Questions to ask yourself to gain perspectiveThe most important indicator to considerD...
2023-05-0216 min
Motherhood Mindset with Stephanie PletkaDo you have a strong-willed child who feels all the FEELS? 3 Ways to defuse the heightened emotion, to not walk on egg shells to create a happier family dynamic with Danielle BettmannDo you have a strong-willed child who feels strongly about all the FEELS? 3 Ways to defuse the heightened emotion, to not walk on egg shells to create a happier family dynamic with Danielle BettmannDo you have a child who fiercely believes in something?~ who feels the injustice in the world?~ who needs validation to be heard and seen before life can go on?We talk about:1. Positives and Negatives, pros and cons of this personality2. How to diffuse the heightened emotion.3. How to make them feel seen a...
2023-05-0126 min
Failing Motherhood102. What NOT to Say to your Strong-Willed ChildWe're not talking about the obvious things here, but the innocuous ones. The well-intentioned instincts or reactions that roll off your tongue when you're desperate for cooperation.Whether you're too kind, or too firm... after days and months of pushback, resistance, power struggles, or stand-offs... it's understandable you start to believe your child only listens when you yell.I invite you to question this belief by sharing insight into what DOES work instead.IN THIS EPISODE, I SHARE...Specific phrases that are ineffective for cultivating cooperationYour role as CEO of y...
2023-04-1820 min
She Can & She WillRaising a Strong-Willed Child with Danielle BettmannToday we discuss what makes strong-willed kids unique and how to parent them differently to create the relationship and home you dream of. Danielle Bettmann - Positive Discipline-certified Parenting Coach for Strong-willed kids, Host of the Failing Motherhood podcastPositive-Discipline certified parenting coach Danielle Bettmann empowers parents to crack the code of their strong-willed child's personality, meet their deepest core needs to improve their behavior, and find new levels of patience. An early childhood educator, certified teacher and home visitor, Danielle now equips parents from all over over Zoom! I...
2023-04-1323 minMoms Overcoming Overwhelm | Decluttering Tips, Declutter, Systems, Routines for Moms, Home Organization31 // Effectively Parenting Strong-Willed Kids When You’re Overwhelmed with Danielle Bettmann from WholeheartedlyStress, anxiety, and overwhelm definitely impact how we parent, and if you throw a strong-willed kiddo (or two) into the mix, then parenting becomes even more challenging.
Today’s guest is Danielle Bettmann. Danielle is a Positive-Discipline certified parenting mentor for families with strong-willed kids age 1-7 and host of the Failing Motherhood podcast. She guides parents to cultivate cooperation, extend their patience and prevent behavior proactively through a group coaching program called Wholeheartedly CALM. A teacher by trade and a coach by strengths, her passion is to be a translator between adult + child, helping parents crack th...
2023-04-0632 minMoms Overcoming Overwhelm | Decluttering Tips, Declutter, Systems, Routines for Moms, Home Organization31 // Effectively Parenting Strong-Willed Kids When You’re Overwhelmed with Danielle Bettmann from WholeheartedlyStress, anxiety, and overwhelm definitely impact how we parent, and if you throw a strong-willed kiddo (or two) into the mix, then parenting becomes even more challenging.
Today’s guest is Danielle Bettmann. Danielle is a Positive-Discipline certified parenting mentor for families with strong-willed kids age 1-7 and host of the Failing Motherhood podcast. She guides parents to cultivate cooperation, extend their patience and prevent behavior proactively through a group coaching program called Wholeheartedly CALM. A teacher by trade and a coach by strengths, her passion is to be a translator between adult + child, helping parents crack th...
2023-04-0632 min
Failing Motherhood100. 10 Lessons in 10 Years of ParentingCelebrate with us! It's the 100th episode of Failing Motherhood!As her oldest just turned 10, Danielle compiled 10 BIG universal lessons she wished she'd known sooner.Don't let it take you 10 years to learn them as well!Send this episode to a new or expecting mom - she'll be SO lucky!DON'T MISS:How comparative suffering is like working out with different weightsWhat truly makes the biggest difference in becoming a "Zen Mama Queen"Why love isn't enough to keep our kids around
2023-04-0457 min
Failing Motherhood[TRAINING MODULE from Wholeheartedly CALM]I don't have an episode for you today - you get a glimpse into my program!For the bad days / bad mornings / bad nights when things are just OFF...Here's an acronym to help you remember 3 ways you can hit RESET.When in doubt... BMW.B - BREATHEM - MUSICW - WATER// Resources referenced in the training //Free Meditation app - Insight TimerBreathwork podcast on Spotify...
2023-03-2821 min
The Marriage & Motherhood PodcastEp. 51 - Navigating Different Parenting Styles with Danielle BettmannLet us know how you enjoyed this episode!Parenting is hard enough, what if you have different parenting styles than your husband? That can make things feel exponentially harder when both of you feel like you're undoing what the other's trying to do. In this episode, I had the honor of chatting with Danielle Bettmann and we dive into: - What to do when you and your husband have different parenting styles - Ways to know you're a parent to a strong-willed child Positive-Discipline certified parenting coach, Danielle Bettmann...
2023-03-2140 min
Failing Motherhood98. 13 Daily Struggles when Parenting a Strong-Willed ChildStrong-willed kids come with a million positive attributes, like a HUGE heart, loving BIG and being super helpful (when they want to be).They can also be really hard to parent sometimes (understatement).I've compiled a list of 13 common struggles that come up on a daily basis for families parenting strong-willed kids. I guarantee you thought you were the only family to experience at least one of these things! #themoreyouknow IN THIS EPISODE, I SHARE...Trademark indicators of parenting a strong-willed child including "the...
2023-03-1426 min
Dreaming of Sleep: for moms of babies and toddlersEpisode 7: Conversation with Danielle Bettmann from Parenting WholeheartedlyPositive-Discipline certified parenting coach Danielle Bettmann empowers parents to crack the code of their strong-willed child's personality, meet their deepest core needs to improve their behavior, and find new levels of patience. Instead of inadvertently inviting defiance by using traditional tools or playing "whack-a-mole" with short-sighted reactions, families get on the same page and learn how to cultivate cooperation while being KIND + FIRM at the same time! Wholeheartedly CALM is her 11-week virtual group coaching program where defeated parents find validation and proven techniques to parent their 1-7-year-old kids with composure, connection, and confidence. It's specifically designed to...
2023-03-0131 min
Failing Motherhood96. The Cure for Mom GuiltMom guilt is a universal experience. What you do with it is what matters!Let's explore together the purpose of the guilt - why it's there, what it's trying to say, and how to manage it in a way that moves you forward.IN THIS EPISODE, I SHARE...10 examples of problems to solve at the root of your guiltHow to bring curiosity into your internal dialogueTwo ways to treat your guilt going forwardDON'T MISS:How your inner voice is like your strong-willed child!// CONNECT W...
2023-02-2824 min
Failing Motherhood94. The KEY to COOPERATION with a strong-willed childI've talked a lot about what DOESN'T work for strong-willed kids, and today we're talking all about what DOES!SKIP this episode if you do not have a strong-willed child. Not sure? I break it down at the beginning! IN THIS EPISODE, I SHARE...How you know FOR SURE if you're the parent of a strong-willed childWhy you haven't been able to implement the tips you've learned other placesThe METHOD to my MADNESS!DON'T MISS:Valuable insight we can learn from hostage negotiators!READ TH...
2023-02-1422 min
Failing Motherhood92. 10 Things I've Learned to be True about Parents of Strong-Willed KidsOver the last almost 4 years of working with hundreds of families, I've learned a thing or two about parents of strong-willed kids. (It takes one to know one!)Consider this episode a Buzzfeed quiz of sorts, and report back with your answer of how many of these qualities you exhibit out of 10! IN THIS EPISODE, I SHARE...Often overlooked insight that applies to both parent AND childThe permission and reassurance you might be looking forWhy it MAKES SENSE if you're feeling the way you're feelingDON'T MISS:#10!...
2023-01-3117 min
Failing Motherhood90. IT. GETS. BETTER.If you are IN IT right now, may this episode be your guiding light. This is your pep talk, inspiration, and roadmap for the next few years. Take this moment to zoom out, realize the worth of your work, and how much the compound interest of each decision in the short term reaps the rewards of a long-term payoff.IN THIS EPISODE, I SHARE...What's possible for you in just a few years as the parent of a strong-willed child (with this morning with mine as evidence!)How w...
2023-01-1718 min