How do you parent with connection and consequences without losing your mind? In this episode, I talk with licensed marriage and family therapist Matthew Maynard about emotionally strategic parenting: a framework that helps modern parents move from chaos to calm with confidence. From managing meltdowns to building real accountability, Matthew shares practical tools for raising emotionally resilient kids while preserving your authority.
🧠 Why empathy alone isn’t enough
🏗️ How to create structure without power struggles
🛑 The problem with sticker charts and threats
💬 Three game-changing questions to ask your child

Feeling overwhelmed or craving more intentional parenting? This conversation offers simple, powerful shifts to help you reset your approach and protect your peace.

Who is Matthew Maynard?
Matthew Maynard is a licensed marriage and family therapist and the creator of Emotionally Strategic Parenting, a framework that blends family systems therapy with practical tools to help parents build connection, character, and confidence at home.

Connect with Matthew and learn more:
https://www.westportctcounseling.com/
https://emotionallystrategic.com/

Grab a copy of his book Honey We F*cked Up The Kids: https://tinyurl.com/Honey-We-F-Up-The-Kids

Find more of Maribou Kids @mariboukids

Episode highlights:
(2:30) How parenting changed his therapy work
(5:13) The mismatch between vision and reality
(7:03) Enmeshment and modern parenting mistakes
(10:57) Why are consequences not punishment
(14:10) Using principles over problems
(17:42) Teaching perseverance and consideration
(20:24) Dial-up, patience, and modern kids
(23:13) Building real rapport without being a friend
(25:47) The three essential reflective questions
(29:00) Avoiding power struggles with strategic leverage
(33:42) Why your marriage should come first
(37:01) The bathroom test of family hierarchy
(39:54) A parenting flop he would redo
(43:38) Favorite dad-approved parenting products
(46:22) Product fails: stroller attachments and cupholders

How do you create a home that reflects your style while still being functional for kids? In this episode, I sit down with interior decorator Becky Nielson Filipski to talk about designing spaces that are beautiful, livable, and family-friendly. From practical tips to mindset shifts, Becky shares her go-to advice for parents who want a home that works for everyone under the roof.
🎨 Design must-dos for families
🚫 What to avoid when decorating with kids in mind
🌈 Do you really need color for a kid-friendly space?
💡 How to work with a designer as a parent

Whether you're planning a full refresh or just dreaming about your ideal home, this conversation is full of inspiration you can actually use.

Who is Becky Nielson Filipski?
Becky is the founder of Becky Nielsen Interiors is a full service interior design firm with offices in Nashville, Tennessee and Los Angeles, California. Prior to forming her eponymous firm, Becky worked in New York City as a designer until moving to Los Angeles, where she held the senior position at Mark D. Sikes Interiors.

Connect with Becky and learn more:
Web: https://www.beckynielseninteriors.com/
IG: @beckynielseninteriors

Episode highlights:
(1:31) Meet Becky & why child-friendly design matters
(4:22) Has parenting changed how she designs?
(6:14) Must-haves for designing family homes
(9:23) Top design advice for parents with young kids
(13:00) What not to do when decorating with kids
(14:38) DIY tips for parents on a budget
(20:10) Trends that don’t always work (open concept, we’re looking at you)
(23:35) Including kids’ personalities in their spaces
(28:44) Best advice when working with a designer
(31:43) Becky’s parenting flop & what she’d do differently
(39:38) Becky’s in-the-thick-of-it advice: just breathe
(44:27) Becky’s favorite infant product: Baby Brezza
(47:15) New love: the Duna stroller
(53:38) Product fail: The stiff baby carrier