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

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

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

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

Parent burnout is real, and it’s not just about being tired. In this powerful conversation with Low-Demand Parenting author Amanda Diekman, we explore what parent burnout really means, and how to find your way back to yourself. If you’ve been running on empty or wondering how to keep going when you’re already at your limit, this one’s for you. Click here to book a consult call with Dr. Gila. Click here to join Dr. Gila's Facebook community, Single-Parenting with Connection, not Perfectio...

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

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

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