Leadership Parenting

Send us a textPunishment might stop misbehavior in the moment, but it doesn't help kids learn better choices—and it often chips away at connection. In this episode, we'll look at a simple formula to help you find the right way of teaching and correcting that works for your family. You'll also learn three research-backed strategies that offer a better path than punishment or permissiveness: encouraging positive behavior, setting kids up for success, and seeing behavior as communication. These tools make discipline less of a struggle and more of a guide, leading to cooperation, growth, and stronger relationships.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Send us a textIf you feel like motherhood is wearing you down, you aren't imagining it. Research shows moms' mental health has been steadily declining over the past several years—and I know how heavy that can feel in real life. Sleepless nights, constant worry, the endless mental load, and that quiet question in the back of your mind: Am I enough?But here's the part I don't want you to miss—there's hope. Science also shows there are protective factors that buffer us against stress, protect our mental health, and actually help us thrive in motherhood. And the best part? They're simple, doable practices you can start weaving into your day without adding more pressure.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Send us a textMotherhood often comes with a silent struggle that few dare name: the overwhelming feeling of depletion that can leave you feeling like a shadow of yourself. Even when we love our children fiercely, the constant giving without replenishment leads many mothers to a state of burnout that affects every aspect of life.This powerful episode delves into why so many mothers feel worn down and what to do about it. We explore the science behind maternal depletion – how your emotional, mental and physical energy can be drained faster than it's replenished, especially under the weight of modern parenting expectations. You'll discover that these feelings aren't signs of failure but natural responses to unsustainable demands. Whether you're in the depths of burnout or simply feeling the first signs of depletion, this episode provides the validation, permission, and practical tools to begin your journey back to wholeness. Remember: this is your life too, and you deserve to experience it fully, not just survive it.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Send us a textEver found yourself reacting to your children in ways you immediately regret? The space between trigger and response might be the most powerful parenting tool you've never fully utilized.Stress, frustration, and overwhelm aren't personal failings—they're biological responses deeply wired into our nervous systems. When faced with the constant demands of parenting, our bodies interpret these challenges as threats, activating our fight-or-flight response and temporarily shutting down our capacity for rational thought. But what if just three seconds could change everything?This episode reveals how a simple pause can completely transform your stress response. Through mindful breathing, physical grounding techniques, and practices like Emotional Freedom Technique (tapping), you can create vital space between feeling triggered and choosing your response. These micro-moments of awareness aren't just coping mechanisms—they're rewiring your brain, strengthening neural pathways that lead to more intentional parenting aligned with your deepest values.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Send us a textNavigating life's hardships comes with the added challenge of deciding what to share with others. Whether you're facing job loss, health concerns, or family difficulties, questions from others can feel intrusive and overwhelming. In this episode, I introduce a powerful framework called The Four Levels of Response, designed to help you know exactly what to say—and what not to say—depending on who's asking. At the heart of this episode is a powerful four-layer framework that puts you back in control of your narrative. You'll discover how to create different levels of response for various people in your life—from your innermost circle to casual acquaintances. This isn't about being secretive or deceptive; it's about being intentional with your truth and protecting your emotional energy. This episode offers a transformative approach to handling these sensitive conversations with confidence and grace.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Send us a textIn this episode of The Leadership Parenting Podcast, we're talking about the most powerful shift you can make as a mom: choosing love over fear. You'll learn how your nervous system toggles between threat mode and calm mode, why your body can't tell the difference between real danger and everyday parenting stress, and how to use practical tools to reset your system in seconds. With real-life examples, stories from moms just like you, and two simple tools—the Safety Reset and the Love Question—you'll discover how to bring grounded energy into your home. This isn't about being perfectly in love with your life all the time. It's about finding your way back to love again and again, and showing your kids what resilience really looks like.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Send us a textEver feel like happiness keeps slipping through your fingers as a mom? You're not broken – you're just chasing the wrong thing.The happiness trap is all too familiar. You've orchestrated a smooth morning, everyone's fed and out the door on time, and for a brief moment, you feel that elusive sense of contentment. Then your phone buzzes – school nurse, fever, pickup needed – and just like that, your carefully orchestrated day crumbles. That fragile happiness dissolves instantly, leaving you wondering what you're doing wrong.Here's the truth rarely discussed: happiness was never designed to be permanent. It's a weather pattern, not a constant climate. When we chase happiness as our primary goal in motherhood, we're essentially trying to control the weather – an exercise in futility that leaves us feeling like failures when the inevitable storms roll in.What sustains us through motherhood isn't happiness but resilience – the ability to find profound meaning amid difficulty, to breathe underwater, to discover we can hold grief and gratitude simultaneously. Resilience recognizes that you're doing sacred work in unremarkable moments – shaping neural pathways in developing brains and creating relationship templates your children will use for life.This episode introduces five practical ways to build genuine resilience: reframing your daily rhythm around energy rather than achievement, strategically creating moments of lightness, developing a meaning-making practice, building your support ecosystem, and practicing emotional granularity.Remember, motherhood is a love project, not a happiness project. Real, transformative love is far more complex and resilient than happiness could ever be. Your children don't need you to be happy all the time – they need you to show up and love deeply, even when it's hard. That's the gift of resilience, and that's what makes motherhood not just bearable, but profound.Subscribe now to continue exploring the skills that build confidence and joy for both you and your children.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Send us a textWhat if your child's difficult behavior isn't disrespect, but a reflection of their developing brain? In this episode, we  explore how our internal lens—shaped by past experiences, emotions, and expectations—can distort how we interpret our children's actions. You'll learn how to shift from reactivity to resilience using neuroscience, emotional self-awareness, and developmentally-aligned thinking. Discover how to parent with more clarity, curiosity, and compassion—and teach your child the same.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Send us a textAll-or-nothing thinking is a common mental pattern in children that can be frustrating for parents who want to help their kids gain perspective and stay emotionally grounded. We explore what's happening beneath the surface when kids think in extremes, and how we can gently support more balanced and resilient thinking.• Children's brains are still developing, especially in the prefrontal cortex responsible for complex thought and emotional regulation• Binary thinking (black and white, all good or all bad) is a normal developmental stage, not a flaw to be fixed• The emotional centers of a child's brain develop before their reasoning centers, explaining many extreme reactions• Identifying when your child is stuck in all-or-nothing thinking is the first step to helping them• Validate emotions without reinforcing extreme statements - say "losing feels frustrating" instead of "you don't always lose"• Model continuum thinking by verbalizing your own balanced thoughts out loud• Use language that adds nuance like "sometimes" and "a part of me feels..."• Praise effort, courage, and learning rather than just outcomes to build a growth mindset• Recognize that moving from all-or-nothing to nuanced thinking is a developmental journey*Did you know? I'm currently opening a few one-to-one coaching spots for moms who are ready to go deeper and get personalized support as they build their own resilience. If that sounds like something you're craving, just head to LeeGerman.com and click on one-to-one coaching. We'll set up a free call to talk about where you are, where you want to be, and whether coaching is the right next step for you.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Send us a textBack-to-school season is officially here—which means earlier mornings, longer to-do lists, and a lot of big feelings. If you're feeling a little sad, scattered, or guilty about how summer went (or didn't go), you're not alone. In this heartfelt and humor-filled episode, I'm unpacking what makes this transition so emotionally messy and sharing simple, actionable steps to help your child—and yourself—adjust with more grace and less chaos. Whether you're clinging to summer or counting the minutes until the school bell rings, this episode is for you.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Send us a textDo you know what one of the most pervasive challenges of modern motherhood is? Guilt. This seemingly logical approach is actually dangerous to our well-being and our parenting. In this episode, you'll learn the crucial difference between helpful guilt and unhelpful guilt, and we explore a practical framework for recognizing guilt, assessing whether it serves you, and learning how to respond with wisdom instead of reactivity. This episode offers both emergency tools for overwhelming moments and lasting strategies for breaking free from the guilt cycle that steals your peace and presence. Take a listen- I think you'll walk away knowing that you don't have to feel guilty to be a good mom—If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Send us a textDo you find yourself caught in the exhausting cycle of "perfect or disaster" thinking? One missed bedtime routine becomes evidence you're a terrible mom. One imperfect day means you're failing at everything. This all-or-nothing mindset isn't just draining—it's keeping you from seeing the progress you're actually making and modeling rigid thinking for your children. In this episode, discover the science behind why our brains default to extremes, learn five practical strategies to embrace the beautiful gray areas of life, and find out how to teach your kids that growth happens in the middle ground between perfect and catastrophic. It's time to trade the exhausting pursuit of perfection for the peace of "good enough"—and watch both you and your family thrive.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Motherhood can be all-consuming—and in the process of caring for everyone else, many women lose sight of who they are. In this powerful episode, we explore how reconnecting with your core values can become your inner compass, helping you feel more grounded, confident, and alive in the life you're already living. You'll discover practical ways to excavate your deepest values, integrate them into your rhythms and routines, and parent from a place of alignment rather than exhaustion. This episode is a heart-opening guide for every mom ready to move from surviving to thriving—by leading from her truth.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Ever feel like you're about to completely lose it as a mom? You're not alone, and you're not broken. In this episode, we dive deep into what emotional overwhelm really looks like for mothers and why traditional advice like "just take deep breaths" doesn't work when you're already in meltdown mode. I'll walk you through the science behind why we get so triggered, share my proven SAFE framework for emotional regulation, and give you emergency tools you can use the very next time you feel that volcano rising inside. This isn't about becoming a perfect, zen mother—it's about having real strategies that work in real moments with real kids who are having real meltdowns.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Far from being just a buzzword, self-awareness is the first step to feeling more grounded, making calmer choices, and modeling emotional regulation for your kids. You'll learn why it matters, how it shows up in your daily life, and simple, actionable steps to start practicing today—even in the middle of chaos. If you've ever felt reactive, disconnected, or overwhelmed, this episode will help you reconnect with yourself and lead your family with greater intention and compassion.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Big changes—like moving, starting a new job, or shifting family plans—can feel overwhelming for kids, especially when they had no say in the decision. In this episode of Leadership Parenting, we dive into a powerful listener question: “What do I do when my kids are upset about a move we decided to make?” If you've ever had to make a necessary decision your child didn't like, you're not alone. This episode will walk you through how to stay strong in your leadership role and emotionally connected to your child. You'll learn the key tools that help kids cope, how to validate their big feelings without backpedaling, and how to foster resilience—even when your decision brings discomfort.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

That constant inner dialogue running through your mind all day? It's shaping your entire parenting experience more than any external circumstance ever could. In this episode, we dive deep into the world of self-talk—exploring how to recognize when your inner voice has become your harshest critic and how to gently transform it into your most compassionate ally. You'll learn the 5 most common types of negative self-talk that keep parents stuck, discover a simple 3-question framework to evaluate and reframe unhelpful thoughts, and see real examples of transforming criticism into kindness. This isn't about toxic positivity—it's about speaking to yourself with the same grace you'd offer your children, because the way you treat yourself becomes the model for how they learn to treat themselves. When you change your inner voice, you change everything.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Have you ever felt that quiet ache of disconnection from your child? Like you're speaking two different languages, or like nothing you do is really landing?In this episode, we're diving into three simple but powerful tools every parent has: Time, Talk, and Touch.These aren't just nice ideas—they're practical ways to soothe stress, strengthen connection, and help your child feel truly seen and safe.If you've been longing to reconnect or just want a fresh way to show up for your child—this episode is for you. Let's get into it.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

As we wrap up our focus on Mental Health Awareness Month, I want to turn our attention to something foundational—something that often gets missed in mental health conversations, but is absolutely essential to our emotional well-being: the nervous system.The more I work with women and mothers, the more I see how understanding and caring for the nervous system changes everything. It shifts how we experience stress, how we respond to our children, and how we show up in the world. So today, we're going to take a deep dive into why your nervous system needs a break—and how you can begin to give it the care it deserves.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Today, we're diving into the invisible but exhausting reality of the mental load—the constant thinking, planning, and remembering that so many moms carry daily. You'll learn what the mental load really is, why it feels so heavy, and how to begin lightening it through six practical, mindset-shifting steps. From redefining your household standards to sharing responsibilities more effectively and reclaiming your recovery time, this episode offers a powerful reset for any mom who feels like she's always on. You don't have to carry it all—and this is your starting point for feeling lighter, clearer, and more at peace.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Today, I want to shine a light on something really important: the everyday things we do—often without realizing—that slowly chip away at our mental well-being.I'm not talking about the big, obvious stressors. I'm talking about the subtle patterns and habits that feel normal but may actually be keeping us stuck in survival mode. We're going to walk through 10 things you might not know are hurting your mental health—and what you can do instead to begin feeling better, more connected, and more in charge of your emotional life. Let's dive in.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Today, we're looking at the often painful experience of self-consciousness—those moments when we feel overly aware of how we're coming across, disconnected from ourselves, and caught in comparison. We'll walk through five powerful, compassionate steps to help you drop self-consciousness and reconnect with your deep, unchanging wholeness. This is a reminder that you are already enough— and you can come home to that truth anytime. Let's figure out how to stop feeling self conscious!If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stressed? In this episode of the Leadership Parenting Podcast, We look at a simple but powerful practice every mom needs: Centering. Learn how to reconnect with yourself in just a few minutes a day and create a deep sense of inner calm, even in the busiest moments of motherhood. I walk you through the 3-step centering process that helps you ground your body, quiet your mind, and build lasting resilience. Whether you're standing in line at the grocery store or facing a tough parenting moment, this practice can bring you home to yourself—and help you show up with more peace, presence, and strength.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

In this episode,  we're exploring a fundamental truth: your worth isn't something you earn, and it doesn't diminish when life becomes challenging. If you've ever asked yourself, "What's wrong with me?" and felt overwhelmed by self-doubt, this episode is for you. We'll delve into three practical steps to help you reconnect with your inner strength and remember that you are not broken.​If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

As moms, we tend to push through exhaustion, ignore discomfort, and treat our bodies like they're supposed to just keep up. But real, lasting resilience begins with learning how to listen in. This isn't about doing more—it's about doing differently. So if you're feeling tired, stretched thin, or just craving a better relationship with your body, this episode is for you.”If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

When we put feelings into words, we're actually creating neural pathways that connect the limbic system (our emotional center) with the prefrontal cortex (our logical thinking center). The science behind this is fascinating- and you need to know it so you can teach your kids how to name their emotions and learn how to manage them so they can never be afraid of having big feelings again.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Motherhood is a journey that requires endless perseverance, and sometimes, it feels like we're running on empty. In this episode, we're diving into the power of grit—that blend of passion and persistence that helps moms keep going, even when parenting feels overwhelming. You'll discover why grit matters, how it shapes your parenting experience, and simple ways to cultivate it so you can stay grounded, resilient, and connected to what matters most.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

You've probably heard of growth mindset—maybe in the context of school or education—but today we're going to bring it home. We're going to talk about what it looks like in motherhood, why it's so important for us as parents, and how to start cultivating it in real, practical ways.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

As parents, we're tasked with helping our kids manage technology in a world that is constantly pulling them toward screens. In today's episode, we're looking at how screen time impacts our kids, why structured guidelines matter, and how we can work with technology—rather than letting it take over—so our kids can thrive in both the digital and the real world.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

In this episode, we're diving into why certain parenting moments trigger intense emotional reactions and how to break free from automatic responses. You'll learn how past experiences shape your triggers, why they are clues rather than failures, and how to work with them instead of feeling stuck in guilt. We'll introduce the D.I.G. method to uncover the root of your triggers and the A.I.M. framework to help you stay calm and respond with intention in the moment. If you're ready to understand your reactions, regulate your emotions, and parent with more confidence and connection, this episode is for you.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Do you find yourself constantly second-guessing your parenting decisions—big and small? Laying awake at night replaying conversations, wondering if you got it right? In this episode, we're diving into why self-doubt shows up, how it steals your confidence, and, most importantly, how to break free from the cycle of overthinking so you can start trusting yourself as a mom. You already have the wisdom you need—let's turn down the volume on self-doubt and hear it more clearly. Because when you trust yourself, you parent with more confidence, connection, and peace.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Love is at the heart of every strong relationship—but are we expressing it in a way that truly connects? Often, we assume that what makes us feel loved will do the same for others, but the truth is, everyone experiences love differently. In this episode, we're exploring love languages and how understanding them can transform the way we connect with our children, partners, and even ourselves. We'll break down the five love languages, dive into the science of connection, and share real-life examples of how small shifts in the way we express love can make a big difference. Whether you're parenting, in a relationship, or simply wanting to strengthen your bonds with the people in your life, this episode is packed with practical insights.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

This month, we've been talking all about love—the kind that shapes our families, deepens our connections, and strengthens our bonds. And since we're stepping into Valentine's Day, today we're turning our focus to one of the most foundational relationships in our lives- our marriages.No matter where you are—whether your marriage feels strong or a little strained right now—This episode aims to be real, encouraging, and most of all, doable. Because the truth is, a thriving marriage isn't built on grand gestures or dramatic changes—it's built in the small, intentional choices we make every day. So today, we're diving into what it actually takes to keep a marriage alive, how small moments of connection make a big impact, and how you can start strengthening your relationship right now, in the middle of your busy, messy, real life.  If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

With Valentine's week here, love is in the air—but the deepest, most lasting love is the one we build with our children every day. In this episode, we're exploring how everyday moments of connection shape your child's emotional well-being, strengthen attachment, and build the foundation for their future relationships. From the first time your baby grasps your finger to the moments your teenager seeks comfort after a tough day, these interactions are more than just sweet memories—they're essential for secure attachment and healthy development. We'll dive into the science behind connection, including the power of “serve and return” interactions, and discuss practical ways to strengthen bonds with your child—even in the midst of busy schedules and distractions. Join me as we unpack the simple but profound ways you can create lasting emotional security for your children and why, at the heart of parenting, connection is the key to raising confident, resilient kids. If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

If you've ever cringed at the phrase ‘love yourself' or felt resistance to the idea of self-compassion, you're not alone—today, we're breaking down why this happens, what self-love really means, and how to start treating yourself with the same kindness you give everyone else. We explore why so many moms struggle to include themselves in the love and care they so freely give to others, and why self-compassion isn't just a nice idea—it's a practice that can change the way you show up for yourself and your family.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

In this episode, we're diving into the heart of why so many moms feel like they're failing and uncovering the truth about your worth. You'll learn how to reconnect with your essential self—the unshakable core of who you are—and discover practical tools to quiet your inner critic, embrace self-compassion, and let go of the impossible standards you've been carrying. If you've ever felt overwhelmed, doubted yourself, or wondered if you're enough, this episode will remind you that you already are.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Motherhood is full of love and joy, but let's be honest—it can also feel heavy and overwhelming at times. If you've ever felt stretched too thin or unsure how to handle all the stress that comes your way, you're not alone. In this episode, we're creating a space to talk about those hard moments and how to cope with them in ways that feel manageable and kind to yourself. We'll explore practical, gentle ways to take care of yourself, ease your mind, and find your calm in the chaos. Because no matter how heavy things feel, learning to cope can help you better deal with stress in your life.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

How do we handle those intense moments with our kids when their behavior is way outside of what we find acceptable?Maybe it's a meltdown, name-calling, or your child flat-out ignoring you. In these moments, it's natural to want the behavior to stop. Our instincts kick in, and we want to teach, train, or maybe even hand out a consequence right away. But today, we're going to talk about something powerful we can do before all that—validate our child's feelings.I know this can feel hard, especially when emotions are high. But when we take the time to see things through our child's eyes, something incredible happens. We connect with them on a deeper level, and that connection opens the door to learning, growth, and even better behavior.In this episode, we'll explore why validation matters, how it can help us hold on to our kids even as we set boundaries, and how it serves our ultimate goal: raising emotionally healthy and resilient kids.So grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let's talk about what it means to validate your kids—and why it's one of the greatest tools in your parenting toolkit. If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

In this episode of Leadership Parenting, we explore a refreshing approach to goal setting that prioritizes what truly matters to YOU. Instead of overwhelming resolutions or rigid plans, we focus on intentional, process-driven goals that align with your unique needs, values, and circumstances. You'll learn how to reflect on the past year, identify areas of growth, and create sustainable habits for your Body, Heart, and Relationships. This episode offers practical steps, insightful questions, and an encouraging perspective to help you design a resilient, joyful year without the pressure to do it all. Whether you're a busy mom or simply seeking clarity for the year ahead, this episode is here to inspire and guide you.

Another year has flown by, and it's the perfect time to pause, reflect, and honor the journey we've all taken—both the wins and the challenges. In this episode, we're diving into how to close out the year with intention, celebrate our efforts (not just accomplishments), and set a foundation of growth and gratitude for ourselves and our families as we enter the new year.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Today, we're diving into a challenge so many of us face as parents during the holidays: keeping our kids—and ourselves—grounded in values amidst the whirlwind of wish lists, big feelings, and high expectations. The holiday season often amplifies emotions, from the excitement of giving and receiving to the inevitable moments of disappointment or overwhelm. In this episode, we'll explore why kids are naturally drawn to materialism during this time and how we can gently guide them toward gratitude and connection. We'll share practical strategies for preparing kids to give and receive gifts gracefully, fostering resilience in the face of unmet expectations, and navigating those tricky moments with empathy and understanding. Just as importantly, we'll focus on you—how to manage your own stress, let go of perfection, and stay centered when the holidays don't go exactly as planned. This is a conversation about finding balance, embracing imperfection, and creating a season filled with meaning for your family.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Do you feel like you're doing it alone during the holidays, or maybe even feel like you fight more during what is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year? Well, you're not alone. The holidays often bring stress that weighs heavily on our closest relationships. But we're here today to get ahead of that. There are actually some things you can do to stay connected to your partner so you can approach the holidays as a team. In this episode, you'll get some great ideas for staying close even amidst the chaos. If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

The holidays are coming and it's time to prepare your game plan. This Encore episode will help you focus on what to say yes to and what to let go of this holiday season so you can create space for joy, connection, and a season that truly aligns with your values. We're looking at our holiday to-do lists, all of the expectations, the things that are present that kind of overwhelm us and cause us to feel that stress. So, if you listened to this episode already last year, I want to invite you to listen again. The more we're familiar with these ideas, the more we will feel permission to design the holidays to meet OUR goals.  And if this is your first time, I think you're going to really enjoy the freedom that I'm suggesting you get to have in how you want your holidays to look. I've created a little cheat sheet that you can get in the show notes and maybe put on your fridge. It walks through the steps of lowering your stress and reclaiming your power during this time of year. You can get that on my website LeighGermann.com under episode 71. Happy Holidays!If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

One of the obstacles to gratitude is being too busy- and as moms- that is our universal problem. We are too busy to do the things for ourselves that we so desperately need. Which is why in today's episode, we combine two things that you need: a walk outside and some more gratitude goodness, put together in a walking meditation focused on gratitudeA walking meditation isn't necessarily about relaxing your body, although you might find that it happens naturally. It's about retraining your brain. You see, our minds have a natural instinct to focus on problems or what's missing. This meditation is designed to help you shift that focus. We're going to create and strengthen a new path in your mind—one that leads to gratitude, positivity, and hope. Think of it like walking a new trail through a forest. At first, the trail might feel overgrown and unfamiliar, but the more you walk it, the clearer and easier it becomes. And over time, your brain begins to automate that path, naturally choosing gratitude and optimism more often than negativity. So, what I hope you will do this week, is find time to go on a walk with me and practice putting your attention on things that help you-  making a stronger and clearer path for peace and appreciation in your brain—step by step.  If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Even though we often hear about the benefits of being grateful, Did you know that there are real obstacles that can stop us—and our kids—from fully experiencing it. Today, we'll unpack those obstacles and explore how to overcome them, so gratitude becomes more natural and fulfilling part of our daily lives. If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Today we're diving into one of the most challenging aspects of parenting: dealing with the moments when we lose our cool.We're going to talk about why we yell, what it means, and most importantly, how to handle it afterward. This episode is going to dig into the psychology behind yelling, its effects on both us and our kids, and strategies to keep those stressful moments from taking over. By the end of this episode, I hope you'll feel empowered to approach these challenges with a new perspective, practical tools, and maybe a little more self-compassion. If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Today, we're tackling one of the toughest challenges every parent faces: when our kids' behavior pushes us to our limits.Those moments can catch us off guard, and our first instinct might be to correct or even control the behavior. But what if we could approach these situations with a new perspective? Sometimes, frustration arises not just from what our kids are doing, but from our expectations of what they should be doing. In this episode, we're exploring how adjusting our expectations and expanding our "window of acceptability" can make it easier to respond calmly and parent the way we truly desire. If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Today, we're answering a question from a mom about how to talk with her kids and stay connected to them on a deeper level. We look at how to work with our own worries and fears, and use specific skills to help our kids feel secure enough to tell us what's on their minds. Whether you're navigating tough conversations or looking to improve your everyday interactions, I know these insights will help you feel more confident in connecting with your kidsIf you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Today, we dive into a topic every mom knows all too well: overwhelm. From the endless to-do lists to the emotional load we carry, feeling stretched too thin is a common experience. But how do we recognize when we're overwhelmed, and more importantly, what can we do about it? In today's episode  we explore the signs of overwhelm, the hidden contributors that creep into our lives, and practical steps to regain control. You don't have to do it all—let's talk about how you can lighten the load, delegate, and find your power again.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Have you heard that bedtime is one of the most important times of the day for kids? It's a prime opportunity for connection between parents and children.  Research shows that children are more likely to open up and share their thoughts and feelings when they're winding down, making bedtime a great moment for strengthening emotional bonds. However, as many of us know all too well, bedtime can also be one of the most challenging parts of the day for families.Between exhaustion, power struggles, and kids pushing boundaries, it can quickly turn into a stressful experience. In this episode,  we're going to explore how we can use a couple of small ideas to turn this tricky time into a time of connection that feels good to you.If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com

Do you ever wonder how to wrap your kids up tight with your love? I think this is the goal of every parent—to have our kids feel the security of our connection, not just in the big moments, but in the little everyday rhythms that fill their lives. We all want our children to feel safe, valued, and deeply loved. But how do we create that sense of security when life is so full of distractions and responsibilities?One of the most powerful ways to make that connection stick is through family rituals. Now, I'm not just talking about routines or schedules, but meaningful rituals that infuse heart into the ordinary moments of family life. These are the things that make your home feel like a place of warmth and belonging, the moments your kids will look back on and feel grounded by, no matter where life takes them.In today's episode, we're going to dive into how creating family rituals can be your secret superpower for leading your family with love and intention. If you'd like to get the show notes for this episode, head to: https://leighgermann.com