Parenting Beyond Meltdowns is ranked in the Top 3% of podcasts globally!  Have you ever found yourself stuck in the same cycle — your child melts down, you react, and afterward you think, “Why did I do that again?” If so, this episode will speak straight to your heart. We’re diving into a powerful concept called the Hero, Victim, and Villain lens and how it can completely change the way you approach parenting your strong-willed or neurodivergent child. When meltdowns happen, it’s easy to slip into old patterns: feeling powerless (the Victim), trying to control (the Villain), or losing hope altogether. But what if you could step into a new story one where you become the Hero? In this episode, you’ll learn how to: Recognize when you’re parenting from fear, shame, or frustration Understand how emotional regulation helps you respond instead of react Rebuild peace and connection with your child, even during the hardest moments Partner with the Holy Spirit to take your thoughts captive and renew your mind We’ll walk through real-life examples like handling defiant behavior, PDA-style refusals, or emotional meltdowns common in kids with ADHD, Autism (ASD), or ODD  in a way that protects your peace and builds lasting connection. Because here’s the truth: you can’t always control the chaos, but you can anchor yourself in calm.You can create emotional safety for both you and your child no matter how strong-willed, neurodivergent, or overwhelmed you both feel in the moment. Mama, this isn’t about perfection. It’s about choosing peace, walking in grace, and remembering that with God’s help… you can be the calm in your child’s storm. Listen now to learn: The difference between reacting in fear and responding in faith How to identify whether you’re in the Hero, Victim, or Villain role What emotional regulation looks like in real-life parenting moments How to rebuild trust and connection with your child when things go wrong Faith Anchor: “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” Galatians 5:22–23    Challenge of the Week:  This week, I want to challenge you to notice which story you’re living from when things get hard. When your strong-willed or neurodivergent child has a meltdown, pause for a moment and ask yourself: “Am I showing up as the Victim, the Villain, or the Hero?” “What thought is driving my reaction right now?” Then, take a deep breath and pray: “Father, help me take this thought captive. Help me see my child — and myself — the way You do.” Your only goal is awareness.You don’t have to get it perfect — just start noticing. Because every time you pause, reflect, and invite God into the moment, you’re strengthening your emotional regulation and creating space for deeper connection with your child.   Links & Resources: Join Insiders List:https://amandacalfee.com/page/insider-list Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/amandacalfee/ Email: amandacalfeecoaching@gmail.com Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredmamas Megan Fate Marshman Quote    

Parenting Beyond Meltdowns is Ranked in the Top 3% of Podcasts Worldwide!  Do you ever feel like you’re living in constant reaction mode just trying to survive one meltdown, defiant moment, or emotional storm after another? In this episode, we’re diving into The Creation Cycle — the #1 tool that will help you renew your mind, regulate your emotions, and rebuild connection with your strong-willed or neurodivergent child (ASD, ADHD,ODD, PDA, Autism). You’ll learn how your thoughts, feelings, and actions work together and how shifting your thoughts can change the atmosphere of your entire home. This simple, faith-based framework will help you take your thoughts captive, calm the chaos, and parent with confidence and compassion even when big emotions rise. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: What the Creation Cycle is and how it helps you partner with God to renew your mind The difference between un-captured/un-renewed (false self) and renewed (true self) thoughts How to identify the patterns keeping you stuck in survival mode How to process emotions with grace so you can respond from love, not reactivity Real-life examples of what this looks like for moms of strong-willed, defiant, or neurodivergent kids Faith Anchor “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind…” — Romans 12:2“Take every thought captive to make it obedient to Christ.” — 2 Corinthians 10:5 Encouragement for the Week You don’t have to keep reacting from fear or frustration.You can renew your mind, regulate your emotions, and rebuild connection one faith-filled thought at a time. Challenge of the Week: This week, I want you to: Do a Thought Download. Get every thought out of your head and onto paper. Pick one thought or emotion that feels the most charged. Run it through your Creation Cycle. Then ask yourself: “What do I want to believe on purpose?” Write that new thought down every day and practice it until it becomes the truth you live from. Thought: What am I thinking? Feeling: What emotion does that thought create in me? Action: What do I do when I feel that way? Result: What does that action create in my life—internally and externally? Links & Resources Join Insiders List:https://amandacalfee.com/page/insider-list Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/amandacalfee/ Email: amandacalfeecoaching@gmail.com Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredmamas  

Parenting Beyond Meltdowns is Ranked in the Top 3% of Podcasts Worldwide!  Mama, what if your actions could tell you everything you need to know about your thoughts, your feelings, and even your true identity in Messiah? In today’s episode, we’re talking about the choices we make—the ones that keep us stuck and the ones that move us forward—so you can step fully into being the mama the Father created you to be. In This Episode This week, we’re exploring the action part of the Creation Cycle—how your daily choices flow directly from your thoughts, emotions, and identity in Christ. You’ll learn: What buffering looks like (and how it keeps you stuck in survival mode). How to recognize when you’re living from your false self (old man) instead of your true self (new man). Why emotional regulation matters when raising a strong-willed or neurodivergent child (ADHD, ASD, ODD, PDA). What it means to take faith-filled action—even when it feels uncomfortable. How to let the Father renew your mind so your actions reflect who He says you are. Faith Anchor “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”— Romans 12:2 Taking action in faith isn’t about striving harder—it’s about surrendering deeper. When we act from our renewed identity, our choices begin to reflect love, patience, and connection instead of fear, frustration, or control. Key Takeaways Buffering (scrolling, snacking, overworking, etc.) is how we often avoid emotions—but awareness helps us face what’s really going on. True Self vs. False Self: Your true self lives from love, grace, and abundance; your false self reacts from fear, lack, and self-protection. Faith-Filled Action: Growth happens when we take imperfect action—when we show up with courage even in the middle of hard moments. Emotional Regulation: You can’t control your child’s behavior, but you can control how you respond. This is what rebuilds connection and peace at home. Challenge of the Week Identify one area of your life where you’ve been buffering or numbing out—maybe through social media, food, or busyness. This week, instead of avoiding the emotion, pause and allow it.Then take one small action that aligns with your true self—something that moves you closer to peace, presence, and connection with your child. Ask yourself: “Am I acting from fear, or am I acting from love?” Every time you choose love, you’re becoming more of who the Father created you to be. Favorite Quote from This Episode “Your child doesn’t have to change for you to reclaim your peace. When you regulate your emotions and act from your true identity, you become the calm in your child’s storm.” Listen & Connect If this episode encouraged you, share it with another mama who’s walking through the storms of parenting a strong-willed or neurodivergent child. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts—it helps other moms find Parenting Beyond Meltdowns and reminds them they’re not alone.   Links & Resources Join Insiders List:https://amandacalfee.com/page/insider-list Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/amandacalfee/ Email: amandacalfeecoaching@gmail.com Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredmamas  

Parenting Beyond Meltdowns is ranked in the Top 3% of podcasts globally! If you have a child strong-willed or neurodivergent child with ADHD, Autism, ODD, PDA you are in the right place!Mama, have you ever felt like you’re carrying emotional weight that never seems to go away? Like no matter how much you pray or think positive thoughts, it still sits heavy in your chest? In this episode, we’ll talk about how to process your emotions all the way through, so they stop living rent-free in your body—and you can finally breathe again. In This Episode Over the last few episodes, we’ve talked about becoming aware of what you’re feeling and allowing emotions without judgment.Today, we take the next step—learning how to process those emotions so they stop living rent-free in your body and start making space for peace, healing, and deeper connection with your child. You’ll learn: Why emotions are simply energy in motion—and how to let them pass through. What it practically looks like to sit with an emotion instead of resisting it. How trapped emotions can keep us feeling heavy and stagnant. Practical ways to process emotions through movement, writing, and connection. How releasing your emotions brings more peace to your home and your heart. Faith Anchor: God Created Us with Emotions The Bible shows again and again that feelings aren’t something to hide or be ashamed of—they are part of how God designed us to connect with Him and others. Verses Showing It’s Okay to Have Feelings & Emotions John 11:35 – “Jesus wept.”→ Even Jesus, the Son of God, expressed deep sorrow and grief. Psalm 42:11 (NIV) – “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.”→ David honestly shared his sadness while still turning toward hope. Ecclesiastes 3:4 (NIV) – “A time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance.”→ The Word affirms that all emotions—joy and sorrow alike—have their place. Mark 14:33–34 (NIV) – “He took Peter, James and John along with him, and he began to be deeply distressed and troubled. ‘My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death,’ he said to them. ‘Stay here and keep watch.’”→ Jesus openly expressed anguish in the Garden of Gethsemane. Psalm 34:18 (NIV) – “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”→ The Father draws near to us in our most painful emotions. Romans 12:15 (NIV) – “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.”→ Emotions are part of our shared human experience, and the Father calls us to honor them together. When we process our emotions with the Father instead of pushing them away, He transforms what once felt heavy into something holy. The same emotions that once buried us can become the soil where healing grows. Recap Emotions aren’t meant to stay trapped inside. They’re like clouds passing over the sun or waves rolling through the ocean—they move when we let them. When we process emotions instead of carrying them like a backpack full of rocks, we create space for more peace, connection, and joy. Challenge of the Week When you notice an emotion this week: Pause and describe it—what does it feel like in your body? If it had a color, shape, or texture, what would it be? Choose one physical action to help release it: a walk, a cry, dancing, or a hug. Invite the Father into that moment—ask Him what He’s teaching you and thank Him for helping you release it. Join the Anchored Mama Insiders List Want more encouragement like this? Join my Insiders List for faith-filled reminders, emotional regulation tips, and practical tools to help you stay anchored in who God says you are. Insiders List: https://amandacalfee.com/page/insider-list Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/amandacalfee/ Email: amandacalfeecoaching@gmail.com Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredmamas    

Parenting Beyond Meltdowns is ranked in the Top 3% of podcasts globally!  Ever feel like your emotions take over the moment your child melts down? You try to push them away, but they only come back stronger. In this episode, Amanda Calfee, Christian life coach and creator of The Anchored Mama Approach, teaches you how to allow emotions without being ruled by them so you can stay calm, connected, and confident—even when chaos hits. You’ll learn how:✨ Your thoughts create your feelings (and how to recognize repeating thought patterns)✨ Resisting emotions can actually make them stronger✨ Allowing emotions opens the door to peace, connection, and freedom✨ Jesus modeled the full range of human emotion—and invites you to do the same If you’ve ever felt hijacked by your feelings or disconnected from your strong-willed or neurodivergent child, this conversation will show you how to invite God into your emotional life and stop letting guilt or shame run the show. Bible Verses Mentioned John 11:35 – “Jesus wept.”→ Used to show that even Jesus experienced and expressed emotion. Mark 14:33–34 – “He took Peter, James and John along with him, and he began to be deeply distressed and troubled. ‘My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death,’ he said to them.”→ Used to illustrate that Jesus felt deep anguish and didn’t hide it. Psalm 62:8 – “Trust in Him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge.”→ Emphasizes that God invites us to bring our emotions to Him rather than suppress them. Challenge of the Week — Allowing Emotions This week, when you feel a strong emotion rise up, practice allowing it instead of reacting or suppressing it. Steps to practice:1️⃣ Pause and name what you’re feeling.2️⃣ Take a deep breath and say, “It’s safe for me to feel this.”3️⃣ Notice what happens when you stop fighting the emotion and simply let it exist. 📝 Bonus Tip: Write a quick note each time you try this — you’ll start seeing how much lighter it feels when you stop resisting your emotions. Links & Resources Join Insiders List:https://amandacalfee.com/page/insider-list Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/amandacalfee/ Email: amandacalfeecoaching@gmail.com Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredmamas

Parenting Beyond Meltdowns is ranked in the Top 3% of podcasts globally!  Does it ever feel like your child’s meltdowns hijack your whole mood? One moment you’re calm, the next you’re snapping, and then comes the guilt. You’re not alone, mama — and you’re not broken. In this first part of our two-episode series, we’re unpacking the first step to emotional resilience as a Christian mom: awareness. You’ll learn how to recognize the repetitive thoughts you carry and the emotions they create, so you can stop feeling overwhelmed and start walking in peace. This episode will help you: Understand the link between your thoughts and emotions. Learn why emotions aren’t the enemy but powerful messengers. Begin noticing your inner dialogue without judgment. Take on a simple 3-minute daily challenge to grow awareness. If you’re parenting a strong-willed or neurodivergent child — whether that’s ADHD, PDA, ODD, Autism, or ASD — this first step is crucial. Emotional regulation doesn’t begin with fixing your child’s behavior. It begins with understanding your own thought life and emotions. Challenge of the Week:Each day this week, set a timer for 3 minutes and ask yourself two questions: What am I thinking right now? What emotion is that thought creating? No judgment, just awareness. This is your first step toward peace, connection, and resilience in parenting.   Links & Resources: Join Insiders List:https://amandacalfee.com/page/insider-list Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/amandacalfee/ Email: amandacalfeecoaching@gmail.com   Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredmamas

Parenting Beyond Meltdowns is ranked in the Top 3% of podcasts globally!    Have you ever felt like your thoughts are hijacking your parenting leaving you overwhelmed, reactive, and stuck in survival mode? In this episode, we’re diving into three powerful anchors for your thought life that will help you take your thoughts captive, so you can show up calmer and more connected with your strong-willed or neurodivergent child (whether ADHD, ASD, ODD, or PDA). You’ll learn how your thoughts shape your feelings, your actions, and ultimately the atmosphere in your home. Instead of being run by fear, shame, or others’ opinions, you’ll discover practical tools to declutter your mind and anchor your thoughts in truth—so meltdowns no longer have the power to hijack your peace.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why awareness of your thoughts is the first step to transformation. How to use a “thought download” to declutter your mind and release negative loops. Why other people’s opinions don’t define you—or your child. Biblical encouragement on renewing your mind (Romans 12:2) and speaking life over your parenting. A faith-rooted perspective on shifting from chaos to calm, even when meltdowns happen.   Faith Anchor Romans 12:2 reminds us: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Mama, you don’t have to let your thoughts run wild—you can anchor them in truth and take back your peace.   Episode Challenge This week, try a “thought download.” Write down every thought swirling in your mind about parenting, meltdowns, and your child. Then ask: Does this thought serve me and the relationship I want with my child? Release what doesn’t, and choose one life-giving thought to carry forward.   Links & Resources Join Insiders List:https://amandacalfee.com/page/insider-list Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/amandacalfee/ Email: amandacalfeecoaching@gmail.com Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredmamas

Parenting Beyond Meltdowns is ranked in the Top 3% of podcasts globally!    What comes to mind when you hear the word obedience? For many mamas, it feels tied to pressure, rules, and the belief that if our child doesn’t obey instantly, we must be failing. But what if that way of thinking is actually breaking connection with your strong-willed or neurodivergent child? In this episode, I’m rethinking obedience through a biblical lens — and exploring how connection, trust, and the Holy Spirit reshape the way we show up as moms, especially when raising kids with ASD, ADHD, ODD, or PDA. We’ll cover: The traditional view of obedience — and why it often leaves kids feeling unseen or discouraged. A deeper dive into Scripture and how relationship always comes before obedience. The role of the Holy Spirit in guiding us away from fear-based parenting and toward love and trust.   What you’ll walk away with: A fresh perspective on obedience that prioritizes your child’s heart over fear and control. Permission to meet your child at their developmental level — whether they’re strong-willed, neurodivergent, or both. Practical and faith-filled encouragement to lean into the Holy Spirit’s whisper instead of the world’s pressure. Bible Verses Referenced: Luke 22:39–45  Ephesians 6:1–4 Colossians 3:21    Resources & Links: Join Insiders List:https://amandacalfee.com/page/insider-list Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/amandacalfee/ Email: amandacalfeecoaching@gmail.com Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredmamas

Parenting Beyond Meltdowns is ranked in the Top 3% of podcasts globally!  Mama, Is your child just strong-willed, or could something deeper be going on... In this episode, we’ll unpack the difference between a strong-willed child and a neurodivergent child, and why the distinction matters—but not in the way you might think. Because at the end of the day, your child’s identity isn’t found in a label. And yours isn’t defined by their meltdowns. 💜 We’ll talk about: The difference between strong-willed traits and neurodivergent challenges. Why regulation and connection matter more than labels. How to anchor yourself so you can show up with peace, regardless of diagnosis. Whether you’re navigating ADHD, ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder), PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance), ODD (Oppositional Defiant Disorder), or just a whole lot of strong-willed energy, this conversation will give you hope and perspective.   Scriptures referenced: Psalm 139:14 — “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” Isaiah 43:1 says, “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.” Cleveland Clinic List Referenced: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/23154-neurodivergent   Resources & Links: Join Insiders List:https://amandacalfee.com/page/insider-list Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/amandacalfee/ Email: amandacalfeecoaching@gmail.com Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredmamas    

Parenting Beyond Meltdowns is ranked in the Top 3% of podcasts globally!    Have you ever wondered if maybe God gave your strong-willed or neurodivergent child (ASD, ADHD, ODD, or PDA) the wrong mom? That you’re not enough, not equipped, or too overwhelmed to handle what they need? Mama, you’re not alone. I’ve been there—convinced I was failing, carrying guilt and shame, and believing the enemy’s lies. But here’s the truth: God doesn’t make mistakes. He didn’t just randomly place you in your child’s life. He chose you on purpose.   In this episode, we’re diving into: Why your identity as a mom is received, not earned. How God equipped biblical figures like Moses, Gideon, David, Esther, Jeremiah, and the Disciples—and how He equips you too. Practical steps to ask the Father to show you your God-given identity. How to renew your mind daily so you can show up as the exact mom you want to be and your child needs. You’ll walk away with encouragement, scripture, and a fresh reminder that even in the hardest moments with your child that you are not failing, you are chosen.   Key Scriptures Shared in This Episode Exodus 4:10–12 Judges 6:15–16 Jeremiah 1:6–9 1 Samuel 17:45 Esther 4:14 Acts 1:8 Ephesians 2:10 Psalm 139 Proverbs 18:21 Isaiah 43:1   This Week’s TakeawaySpend 10 minutes with the Father and ask Him to show you your God-given identity as a mom. Write it down. Post it somewhere visible. Speak it daily. His truth, not the enemy’s lies, defines you.   Resources & Links: Join Insiders List:https://amandacalfee.com/page/insider-list Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/amandacalfee/ Email: amandacalfeecoaching@gmail.com Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredmamas            

Parenting Beyond Meltdowns is ranked in the Top 3% of podcasts globally! As a mama of an ASD, ADHD, ODD, or PDA child have you ever caught yourself speaking your fears out loud—only to watch them unfold in your child’s life? I’ve been there. In this episode, I’m sharing a personal story of how my own unregulated emotions and words began shaping mine and my child’s reality—and why regulating ourselves as moms matters so much. You’ll hear: Why your fears don’t have to become your child’s identity How a dysregulated nervous system in you can spark dysregulation in them Why words have power—biblically, emotionally, and neurologically Practical ways to regulate your emotions before you respond How to replace fear with truth and speak life over your child This conversation is all about learning to pause, breathe, and anchor in God’s Word before reacting in fear—so you can parent with peace, confidence, and connection. Scripture References in this Episode: Proverbs 18:21 James 3:5–6 2 Timothy 1:7 Isaiah 41:10 1 John 4:18 Psalm 34:4 Joshua 1:9 Isaiah 43:1 Jeremiah 29:11 Mentioned in this episode:I also talk about how I personally use Young Living Essential Oils to help me regulate in the moment and create a calm environment for my home. Here is a wishlist that you can add individual items to a cart if you are interested https://tinyurl.com/ylamandacalfee  If you have any questions at all please email me at amandacalfee@gmail.com   Takeaway:Your fears don’t get the final word. God does. When you regulate yourself and choose to speak truth instead of fear, you create space for life, hope, and healing in your home.   Resources & Links: Join Insiders List:https://amandacalfee.com/page/insider-list Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/amandacalfee/ Email: amandacalfeecoaching@gmail.com Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredmamas    

Parenting Beyond Meltdowns is ranked in the Top 3% of podcasts globally!  When you’re raising a child with ADHD, Autism, ODD, or PDA, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn. So often, we run to books, podcasts, or parenting strategies before we turn to God. But what if true peace and wisdom are found first in His presence? In this episode of Parenting Beyond Meltdowns, we explore four simple but powerful ways to deepen your connection with God: Scripture, prayer, worship, and surrender. You’ll discover how these rhythms can help you tune out the noise, find clarity, and parent with more peace—even in the middle of meltdowns. Whether you’re navigating daily struggles, longing to hear God’s voice more clearly, or simply needing encouragement for the hard days, this conversation will help you build a nourishing rhythm with the Father that fits your life and your child’s unique needs.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why turning to God first brings greater peace than parenting strategies alone. Four practical ways to connect with Him in daily life: the Word, prayer, worship, and surrender. How to model dependence on God so your child learns to do the same. Small shifts that help replace distractions (like social media) with rhythms that bring you closer to Him. Encouragement to create your own rhythm with God instead of copying someone else’s quiet time routine.   Scripture References: Jeremiah 29:13 — “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” Hebrews 4:12 — “For the word of God is living and active…” Hebrews 13:15 — “Let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God…” Psalm 34:18 — “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”   Resources & Links: Join Insiders List:https://amandacalfee.com/page/insider-list Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/amandacalfee/ Email: amandacalfeecoaching@gmail.com Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredmamas                  

Parenting Beyond Meltdowns is ranked in the Top 3% of podcasts globally!  If you’ve tried being the “nice mom” and the “strict mom” and neither has worked, you’re not alone. I used to think connection came after compliance—that once my child listened, obeyed, or calmed down, then we could connect. But I’ve learned the hard way that connection isn’t the reward…it’s the foundation. And without it, everything else falls apart. In this episode, I’m sharing my own journey of realizing that my son’s defiance wasn’t actually defiance—it was dysregulation. He was communicating the only way he knew how, and I was unintentionally making it harder for him to feel safe. I’ll walk you through four powerful, connection-centered shifts that have helped me rebuild trust with my neurodivergent child: focusing on safety over first-time obedience, getting curious instead of furious, repairing when there’s a rupture, and being the calm in the chaos. If you’re in the thick of power struggles, meltdowns, and constant pushback, this conversation will give you a fresh lens to see your child’s behavior differently—and remind you that building attachment isn’t about “fixing” them. It’s about becoming the kind of parent they can trust with their whole heart, even on the messy days.   Resources & Links: Join Insiders List:https://amandacalfee.com/page/insider-list Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/amandacalfee/ Email: amandacalfeecoaching@gmail.com Facebook Group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredmamas  

Parenting Beyond Meltdowns is ranked in the Top 3% of podcasts globally!  If you’ve ever thought, “I’m a bad mom,” this episode is for you. I’m sharing why your child’s struggles don’t define you and how to break free from the shame and guilt that so many of us carry. I’ll give you practical ways to stand firm in your God given identity and remind you of the truth about who God says you are as a mom. Because you are not a bad mom—you are a growing mom. By the end of this episode, you’ll feel lighter, more confident, and equipped with simple steps to anchor yourself in truth on the hard days.   Resources & Links: Join Insiders List:https://amandacalfee.com/page/insider-list Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/amandacalfee/ Email: amandacalfeecoaching@gmail.com Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredmamas  

Parenting Beyond Meltdowns is ranked in the Top 3% of podcasts globally!  Have you ever felt like your child is the problem? Like if they would just listen, stop melting down, or follow directions, everything would finally be better? Mama, you’re not alone. Those thoughts don’t make you a bad mom—they make you human. In this episode, we’ll explore a gentle shift that can bring more peace into your home. I share how I began to notice the role my own emotions were playing in my child’s behavior, and how learning to regulate myself helped us both. You’ll walk away with 3 powerful questions that can help you pause, reflect, and find a calmer way forward when things get overwhelming. If you’re raising a strong-willed or neurodivergent child (whether ADHD, Autism, ODD, or PDA), this conversation will remind you that neither you nor your child are broken. You’ll find encouragement, hope, and a simple practice you can begin using today.   Resources & Links: Join Insiders List:https://amandacalfee.com/page/insider-list Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/amandacalfee/ Email: amandacalfeecoaching@gmail.com Facebook Group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredmamas

Welcome to the very first episode of Parenting Beyond Meltdowns! I’m so glad you’re here. In this episode, I’m sharing my story and what led me to start this podcast for Christian moms raising neurodivergent or strong-willed kids. I’ll take you back to my rock-bottom season as a mom and the powerful way God began to show me a new way forward—starting with me. If you’ve ever felt like you’re drowning in daily chaos, wondering if you’re failing your child or doing this all wrong, this episode is for you. My prayer is that you’ll leave this conversation feeling a little less alone and with a glimmer of hope that peace and connection are possible, even in the middle of the meltdowns. I’ll also share what you can expect from the podcast going forward and why I believe the way you show up to your child matters more than any parenting strategy. My heart is for you to begin seeing that the answer isn’t about “fixing” your child—it starts with how you anchor yourself. If you’re ready to parent from a place of peace instead of survival mode, make sure you’ve joined the Insiders List. You’ll get encouragement and practical tools delivered straight to your inbox to help you keep moving forward.    Resources & Links: Join Insiders List:https://amandacalfee.com/page/insider-list Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/amandacalfee/ Email: amandacalfeecoaching@gmail.com Facebook Group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredmamas Song Referenced in Episode:  Easy...By, Mercy Culture Worship https://youtu.be/WHNapsAboio?si=9TBLZpd3GGJvOkGX  

Mama, are you tired of meltdowns stealing the peace in your home? Welcome to  Parenting Beyond Meltdowns. I’m Amanda, a Christian life coach and mom of a strong-willed neurospicy teen. If you’ve tried everything... consequences, parenting books, crying out to the Father and still feel like you’re failing, you’re not alone. Inside this podcast, we’ll explore how faith, emotional regulation, and connection work together so you can parent from peace, even in the hardest moments. You don’t have to hold it all together here… This is a safe space to lay it all down. Welcome!