Are you using “attachment parenting” — or accidentally doing permissive parenting?
In this eye-opening conversation, Greg & Rachel Denning break down what true attachment parenting is (and isn’t). They share the skills, mindsets, and tools that helped them eliminate tantrums for 16 years and prevent teen rebellion—without yelling, shaming, or rigid control.
You’ll learn why parenting is a specific, learnable skill, how to build secure attachment from baby to teen, and where popular advice (cry-it-out, forced “holding time,” over-scheduling, letting kids lead everything) quietly damages trust. You’ll also get a clear blueprint for connection with boundaries so kids feel safe, seen, and guided—and you feel calm, confident, and effective.
Bottom line: Attachment is earned, not forced. Respect your child’s free will, meet real needs (sleep, food, attention), co-regulate big emotions, and set firm, sensible boundaries. That’s the evergreen approach that works in every generation.
Key Takeaways
✅ Parenting is a skill—unrelated to how good you are at business, sports, or leadership.
✅ Attachment ≠ permissive. It’s connection + boundaries and kind + firm.
✅ Attachment is earned, not forced. No cry-it-out or “holding until defeat.”
✅ Respect free will while providing age-appropriate structure and safety.
✅ Co-regulation first (your calm is contagious), then teach self-regulation.
✅ Meet basics (sleep, nutrition, attention) before behavior battles.
✅ Measure success by long-term trust and adult outcomes—not short-term compliance.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Attachment Parenting
00:43 Clarifying Misunderstandings in Parenting
02:04 The Importance of Parenting Skills
03:09 Defining Success in Parenting
04:39 Understanding Attachment Parenting
05:23 The Dangers of Misapplied Parenting Techniques
06:56 The Impact of Adoption on Attachment
08:25 The Consequences of Control in Parenting
11:28 The Role of Freedom in Child Development
13:48 The Misconception of Holding Time
16:10 The Impact of Sleep Training on Children
17:59 Respecting Free Will in Parenting
20:39 The Concept of Holding Time
24:22 Understanding Boundaries and Safety
28:24 Preparing Children for Adulthood
31:24 The Lifelong Mentor-Mentee Relationship
33:01 Building a Legacy of Good Parenting
Memorable Quotes
🗣 “Parenting is a skill—and a very specific one you can learn.”
🗣 “Attachment is earned, not forced.”
🗣 “Be kind and firm: connection with boundaries.”
🗣 “Children push to find the boundary—when they find it, they feel safe.”
🗣 “Your calm co-regulates their storm.”
RESOURCES:
Let us help you in your extraordinary family life journey.
How We Raised 7 Well-Adjusted Kids - Without Yelling, Tantrums, Punishments or Power Struggles (+ get THE CHECKLIST: Things We Do Every Day to Raise Well-Adjusted Kids)
Rachel’s Must-Read Booklist for Well-Read Moms
Follow us on Instagram: @worldschoolfamily or @greg.denning
Don’t miss out on the Extraordinary Parent Mentoring Method class!
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Do you ever feel like you’re doing “all the right things” but not seeing real results?
In this episode, Greg & Rachel Denning challenge the sacred cows of school, pharma, and religion—not to burn it all down, but to help you keep what serves your family and release what doesn’t. You’ll learn how to shift from transactional box-checking to transformational growth, so your kids develop inner authority, critical thinking, and personal responsibility.
Big idea: You can honor helpful traditions and raise kids who can question wisely, choose higher standards, and own their outcomes—in education, health, spirituality, and life.
What we cover:
• Why outsourcing your child’s education, spirituality, or health stalls growth
• How to “keep the good” in institutions while ditching deadweight rules
• The path from conformity to character—raising autodidacts who learn for life
• Practical habits that create palpable progress in mind, body, spirit, and family culture
Key Takeaways
✅ Transactional → Transformational: Results > routines.
✅ Inner Authority: Teach kids to think, not just comply.
✅ Keep & Elevate: Honor useful rules; raise the standard at home.
✅ Autodidact Mindset: Light the fire, don’t fill the bucket.
✅ Measure Progress: If outcomes don’t improve, change the method.
Chapters
00:00 Challenging Sacred Cows
02:32 The Importance of Questioning Traditions
04:58 Individual Authority and Personal Growth
07:22 Outsourcing Education and Spirituality
10:29 Transformational vs. Transactional Experiences
13:05 The Role of Institutions in Personal Development
15:25 The Quest for Holistic Progress
18:27 Facing Fears and Embracing Truth
21:28 The Labyrinth of Personal Growth
28:40 Facing Fears and Doubts
29:32 The Nature of True Education
30:51 The Challenge of Conformity
32:22 Resisting Authority Thoughtfully
33:41 The Importance of Imagination
35:03 Faith at the Edge of the Abyss
36:18 Questioning Conventional Wisdom
38:01 Learning from Others' Experiences
40:41 Walking the Labyrinth of Faith
41:48 Understanding Meta Truths
44:10 The Concept of the Fringe
46:44 Navigating the Lower and Upper Fringe
49:03 Living Beyond Conformity
50:31 Transformational Living Beyond the Basics
Memorable Quotes
🗣 “You can’t outsource growth—nobody can do your pushups for you.”
🗣 “If there’s no palpable progress, the method must change.”
🗣 “Keep what’s good in tradition—raise the standard on everything else.”
🗣 “Education isn’t filling a bucket; it’s lighting a fire.”
RESOURCES:
Let us help you in your extraordinary family life journey.
How We Raised 7 Well-Adjusted Kids - Without Yelling, Tantrums, Punishments or Power Struggles (+ get THE CHECKLIST: Things We Do Every Day to Raise Well-Adjusted Kids)
Rachel’s Must-Read Booklist for Well-Read Moms
Follow us on Instagram: @worldschoolfamily or @greg.denning
Don’t miss out on the Extraordinary Parent Mentoring Method class!
Get Rachel's Family Systems & Charts
Get Rachel’s Extraordinary Family Life Planner
JOIN GREG'S 90-DAY HEALTH & FITNESS CHALLENGE!
Gather with us at the World School Family (Beach & Farm) Resort in Portugal
Are you a driven mom who wants to be present—but you’re drowning in overwhelm and “control mode”?
This conversation shows you how to get crystal-clear on your family vision, build secure attachment/connection, and set firm, kind boundaries so kids become self-directed—without you turning into the “mean, controlling parent.”
In this candid episode, Greg and Rachel break down the yin–yang of parenting—high standards + healthy surrender—so you can lead your family without micromanaging. You’ll learn time-chunking, strategic disengagement, and simple charts & systems (starting with the morning routine) that create calm, predictable days. We also unpack why quality and quantity time (especially in key developmental years) is the foundation of trust, attachment, and influence.
If you’ve ever thought, “I’ve tried everything,” this is your roadmap to clarity, consistency, and connection—without burnout.
Key Takeaways
✅ Vision first: You can’t hit a target you don’t have—define your family vision and align daily “micro-visions.”
✅ Attachment over control: Connection creates cooperation; control breeds rebellion or resentment.
✅ Quality and quantity time: Presence (especially ages 0–6, and up to 25) builds trust and influence.
✅ Boundaries you honor: Time-chunking + strategic disengagement protect work and family time.
✅ Systems over stress: Start with a morning routine chart; train, then let kids choose how within clear boundaries.
✅ Lead without micromanaging: Be playful + firm on non-negotiables; give freedom on details.
✅ The obstacle is the way: Overwhelm signals where to build skills and systems next.
Memorable Quotes
🗣 “You can’t hit a target you don’t have—or one you can’t see.”
🗣 “Quality time isn’t enough—your kids need quality and quantity.”
🗣 “Connection creates cooperation; control creates resentment.”
🗣 “Set boundaries—and honor them. That’s how kids learn to trust you.”
🗣 “The obstacle is the way. Skill up where you feel overwhelmed.”
🗣 “Hold high standards; give freedom in the details.”
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Extraordinary Family Life
00:23 Vision and Clarity in Parenting
04:13 Facing Obstacles in Family Life
06:36 Quality vs. Quantity in Parenting
08:56 Setting Boundaries as a Parent
11:56 Strategic Time Management for Family Engagement
13:00 Navigating Chaos with Calmness
15:14 The Dangers of Control in Parenting
18:30 The Irony of Control and Surrender
19:58 Self-Awareness as a Catalyst for Change
22:48 Learning Parenting as a Skill
24:10 Balancing Control and Freedom
26:25 Establishing Boundaries with Flexibility
29:56 Teaching Independence through Routines
34:20 Introduction to Extraordinary Family Life
RESOURCES:
Let us help you in your extraordinary family life journey.
How We Raised 7 Well-Adjusted Kids - Without Yelling, Tantrums, Punishments or Power Struggles (+ get THE CHECKLIST: Things We Do Every Day to Raise Well-Adjusted Kids)
Rachel’s Must-Read Booklist for Well-Read Moms
Follow us on Instagram: @worldschoolfamily or @greg.denning
Don’t miss out on the Extraordinary Parent Mentoring Method class!
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Are you tired of hearing about “gentle parenting” — but still want to raise kind, confident, and emotionally intelligent kids?
In this powerful episode, Greg and Rachel Denning unpack The Truth About Gentle Parenting — what works, what backfires, and what extraordinary parents are using instead.
They reveal how gentle parenting often gets misapplied as permissive parenting, leaving parents exhausted, burned out, and unsure how to hold boundaries without becoming authoritarian. The Dennings share a better, more effective approach — one that blends empathy and structure, kindness and firmness, compassion and clarity.
They explain how to develop your parenting intuition, create emotional safety without losing authority, and respond to misbehavior without yelling, punishing, or shaming. You’ll learn how to raise respectful, resilient kids while staying calm, confident, and connected — even in the toughest parenting moments.
Key Takeaways
✅ True “gentle” parenting means connection with boundaries, not permissiveness.
✅ Kids feel safest when parents are both kind and firm.
✅ Respect doesn’t mean letting your child lead — it means guiding with love and clarity.
✅ Emotional awareness + structure = long-term cooperation and trust.
✅ You can’t pour from an empty cup — process your own triggers to parent authentically.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Extraordinary Parenting
12:20 The Nuances of Gentle Parenting
30:41 Pros and Cons of Gentle Parenting
41:02 Navigating Disappointment in Parenting
47:01 The Importance of Setting Expectations
50:10 Balancing Empathy and Boundaries
56:13 Authenticity in Parenting
01:04:20 The Shift Towards Hybrid Parenting
01:17:55 The Path to Effective Parenting
Memorable Quotes
🗣 “You can’t spoil a baby—but you can fail to build trust.”
🗣 “Be kind but firm. Gentle doesn’t mean weak.”
🗣 “Children will push to find the boundaries. When they find them, they feel safe.”
🗣 “Emotions are contagious—if you’re calm, they’ll learn calm.”
🗣 “Parenting isn’t about being perfect. It’s about having the tools and the intuition.”
If you’re ready to stop oscillating between being too soft or too strict — and instead raise emotionally intelligent kids who respect and trust you — this episode will help you find the balance between empathy and authority that extraordinary parents master.
RESOURCES:
Let us help you in your extraordinary family life journey.
How We Raised 7 Well-Adjusted Kids - Without Yelling, Tantrums, Punishments or Power Struggles (+ get THE CHECKLIST: Things We Do Every Day to Raise Well-Adjusted Kids)
Rachel’s Must-Read Booklist for Well-Read Moms
Follow us on Instagram: @worldschoolfamily or @greg.denning
Don’t miss out on the Extraordinary Parent Mentoring Method class!
Get Rachel's Family Systems & Charts
Get Rachel’s Extraordinary Family Life Planner
JOIN GREG'S 90-DAY HEALTH & FITNESS CHALLENGE!
Gather with us at the World School Family (Beach & Farm) Resort in Portugal
Do you want your kids to love learning—and become independent, capable adults who can handle life?
Most parents want extraordinary results but stick to ordinary systems. In this video, Greg & Rachel explain why comfortable, convenient methods don’t produce extraordinary results and why true education is lighting a fire, not filling a bucket. You’ll see how to expand beyond the home with worldschooling and real-world experiences, use modern tools for a world-class education, and reclaim both influence and joy in your family culture.
Key Takeaways
✅ Method determines outcome—change methods to change results.
✅ Worldschooling turns lessons into experiences kids never forget.
✅ Raise independent thinkers through self-directed learning.
✅ Time with your kids = influence (quantity and quality).
✅ Use AI/online platforms to access the best teachers on earth.
✅ Save “academic rigor” for the right season—after love of learning ignites.
Chapters
00:00 Welcome to Extraordinary Family Life
01:06 The Importance of Intentional Living
02:32 Extraordinary Education Through World Schooling
05:02 The Limitations of Public Schooling
06:41 The Need for Self-Directed Learning
08:04 Experiential Learning and Travel
09:42 The Impact of Environment on Learning
11:30 Navigating Social Experiences for Kids
11:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
15:41 The Transformative Power of Modern Education
19:47 Leveraging Online Resources for Homeschooling
22:12 Balancing Personal Time and Homeschooling
25:16 Quality Time vs. Quantity Time in Education
26:44 Redefining Social Skills Beyond School
27:25 Overcoming Personal Limitations as a Parent
28:06 Embracing the Journey of Homeschooling
30:13 The Importance of Following Interests in Learning
Memorable Quotes
🗣 “Comfortable, convenient methods don’t produce extraordinary results.”
🗣 “Education is not the filling of a bucket, but the lighting of a fire.”
🗣 “If you want different results, change your method.”
🗣 “You can’t outsource character or curiosity.”
RESOURCES:
Let us help you in your extraordinary family life journey.
How We Raised 7 Well-Adjusted Kids - Without Yelling, Tantrums, Punishments or Power Struggles (+ get THE CHECKLIST: Things We Do Every Day to Raise Well-Adjusted Kids)
Rachel’s Must-Read Booklist for Well-Read Moms
Follow us on Instagram: @worldschoolfamily or @greg.denning
Don’t miss out on the Extraordinary Parent Mentoring Method class!
Get Rachel's Family Systems & Charts
Get Rachel’s Extraordinary Family Life Planner
JOIN GREG'S 90-DAY HEALTH & FITNESS CHALLENGE!
Does “launching” your teen mean kicking them out at 18?
If your child only becomes capable when you separate, something’s broken. In this video, Greg & Rachel Denning expose why “move out at 18” is a modern psyop that weakens families and robs teens of real independence. You’ll learn how to build capability before 18—so your young adult is confident, competent, and contributing while still benefiting from mentorship, connection, and family legacy.
Key Takeaways
✅ Failure to launch is a parenting-skill problem, not an age problem.
✅ By mid-teens, kids should be capable, confident, and contributing at home.
✅ Comfort & convenience sabotage growth—skills and systems build it.
✅ Teach life skills early: cooking, cleaning, finances, self-management.
✅ Mentor through 16–25: support big decisions, deepen character, build skills.
✅ Generational families win: keep wisdom, wealth, and warmth under one roof.
✅ If independence only follows separation, change the method—not the goal.
Chapters
00:00 Epic Adventures and Homecomings
03:02 Rethinking the 18-Year-Old Move-Out Myth
06:06 The Impact of Cultural Norms on Independence
08:43 Parenting Skills and the Failure to Launch
11:54 The Role of Education in Young Adulthood
14:41 Cultural Perspectives on Family Dynamics
17:44 The Dangers of Social Media Influence
20:31 Reframing Independence and Parenting Strategies
27:42 Empowering Children with Life Skills
34:52 The Importance of Parenting Techniques
44:43 Building a Family Legacy and Financial Stability
Memorable Quotes
🗣 “If your kids only become capable when you kick them out—you’ve already failed.”
🗣 “Comfort and convenience don’t create capable kids.”
🗣 “We’re unconsciously sabotaging our own success as parents.”
🗣 “Change the method—not the goal.”
Want help implementing this? Our Extraordinary Parent Mentoring Method gives you the exact skills, systems, and scripts to end entitlement, grow contribution, and build a thriving, intergenerational family culture.
RESOURCES:
Let us help you in your extraordinary family life journey.
How We Raised 7 Well-Adjusted Kids - Without Yelling, Tantrums, Punishments or Power Struggles (+ get THE CHECKLIST: Things We Do Every Day to Raise Well-Adjusted Kids)
Rachel’s Must-Read Booklist for Well-Read Moms
Follow us on Instagram: @worldschoolfamily or @greg.denning
Don’t miss out on the Extraordinary Parent Mentoring Method class!
Get Rachel's Family Systems & Charts
Get Rachel’s Extraordinary Family Life Planner
JOIN GREG'S 90-DAY HEALTH & FITNESS CHALLENGE!
Gather with us at the World School Family (Beach & Farm) Resort in Portugal
Are you torn between protecting your kids’ mental health and preparing them for real-world stress?
Most parents feel this tension—and many swing too far toward pressure or protection.
In this video, Greg & Rachel share a better path: don’t inflict pressure—be the anchor while your kids face it. You’ll learn how to build grit through trust, identity, and modeling, so challenge actually strengthens your bond instead of breaking it.
What we cover:
Identity over willpower: why saying “I’m not a smoker” beats “I’m trying to quit.”
Anchor, don’t apply pressure: your job is safety + modeling, not manufactured hardship.
Results don’t lie: how your life becomes the proof your kids can’t ignore.
Trust first, then stretch: push to the “next rock,” then keep your promise and carry them.
Adjust your strategy: when you “get punched in the face,” learn, adapt, iterate.
Do hard things yourself: kids spot hypocrisy—lead from the front.
Make discomfort enjoyable: turn tough conversations, workouts, and cold plunges into shared wins.
Big Idea: Grit grows in connection. When kids know you’ll both challenge and carry them, they lean in, try again, and adopt a new identity that sustains lifelong habits.
Key Takeaways
✅ Be the anchor, not the pressure. Safety + example > force.
✅ Model hard things. If you don’t, they won’t.
✅ Identity drives habits. Become the family who does the hard, good things.
✅ Keep promises. Stretch to the “next rock,” then carry—that’s how trust is built.
✅ Iterate, don’t implode. When it’s not working, change your approach, not your ideals.
Chapters
00:00 New Beginnings and Reflections
03:18 Goal Setting and Identity Transformation
03:31 Preparing Kids for Life's Challenges
05:02 The Balance of Comfort and Growth
05:30 Building Resilience Through Experience
08:44 Adapting to Life's Punches
09:59 The Journey of Parenting and Education
12:19 Embracing Failure in Business and Parenting
13:59 The Importance of Adaptability and Learning
17:21 Influence Through Results and Personal Example
19:32 Living an Extraordinary Life as a Family
22:34 Teaching Resilience Through Real-Life Challenges
24:58 Iterative Learning and Effective Communication
28:39 The Power of Persistence in Parenting
Memorable Quotes
🗣 “Be the anchor—don’t be the pressure.”
🗣 “Results don’t lie. Pass the silent film test.”
🗣 “Identity changes behavior more than willpower.”
🗣 “Stretch, then carry. That’s how trust grows.”
Want help implementing this at home? Our new parenting course gives you the step-by-step systems to build trust, invite buy-in, and raise resilient kids—without yelling, punishment, or power struggles. Join the Extraordinary Parent Mentoring Method class here.
RESOURCES:
Let us help you in your extraordinary family life journey.
How We Raised 7 Well-Adjusted Kids - Without Yelling, Tantrums, Punishments or Power Struggles (+ get THE CHECKLIST: Things We Do Every Day to Raise Well-Adjusted Kids)
Rachel’s Must-Read Booklist for Well-Read Moms
Follow us on Instagram: @worldschoolfamily or @greg.denning
Don’t miss out on the Extraordinary Parent Mentoring Method class!
Get Rachel's Family Systems & Charts
Get Rachel’s Extraordinary Family Life Planner
JOIN GREG'S 90-DAY HEALTH & FITNESS CHALLENGE!
Gather with us at the World School Family (Beach & Farm) Resort in Portugal
Are you afraid to give something up—even if you know it’s holding your family back?What if the “sacrifice” you’re resisting is the exact bridge to the life you actually want?
In this powerful conversation, Greg and Rachel answer a listener’s question inspired by James Allen: “He who would attain highly must sacrifice greatly.” They share the real sacrifices they made to build an extraordinary family life—from walking away from comfort and conformity to investing tens of thousands into personal growth, ditching entertainment for education, and choosing experiences and character over stuff. You’ll learn how to overcome the fear of loss, handle others’ opinions, and trade short-term ease for long-term joy, health, and purpose.
Big idea: It’s hard to call it a “sacrifice” when what you get back is better than what you gave up. Bottom line: The most important investment you’ll ever make is in yourself—and then in your spouse and kids.
Key Takeaways:
✅ Comfort is costly—trade it for purpose, health, and momentum.
✅ Invest in yourself first, then your spouse and kids.
✅ Entertainment steals growth; education multiplies it.
✅ Ditch “peacock pageantry”—results beat credentials.
✅ Own your outcomes—no blame, no excuses.
✅ Failure ≠ final—it’s fertilizer for your future.
Chapters
00:00 Daily Sacrifices for a Better Life
23:14 Intentional Living and Personal Responsibility
28:39 The Rewards of Sacrifice
31:27 EFL YouTube Outro Full Updated.mp4
Memorable Quotes
🗣 “It’s hard to call it a sacrifice when the return is better than what you gave up.”
🗣 “Most people are entertaining themselves to death—and taking their families with them.”
🗣 “Results are the only real qualification.”
🗣 “Only little people get upset over little things.”
🗣 “Failure is fertilizer—use it.”
RESOURCES:
Let us help you in your extraordinary family life journey.
How We Raised 7 Well-Adjusted Kids - Without Yelling, Tantrums, Punishments or Power Struggles (+ get THE CHECKLIST: Things We Do Every Day to Raise Well-Adjusted Kids)
Rachel’s Must-Read Booklist for Well-Read Moms
Follow us on Instagram: @worldschoolfamily or @greg.denning
Don’t miss out on the Extraordinary Parent Mentoring Method class!
Get Rachel's Family Systems & Charts
Get Rachel’s Extraordinary Family Life Planner
JOIN GREG'S 90-DAY HEALTH & FITNESS CHALLENGE!
Are your kids’ fights setting off your emotions—and the whole house?Most parents try to “fix” kids’ behavior to feel better. In this video, Greg & Rachel flip the script: change your emotional state first, and your family dynamics follow. You’ll learn how to stop masking (“trying to stay calm”) and start being emotionally authentic—so you model regulation your kids can actually imitate.
We unpack practical tools to raise your family’s emotional thermostat—even on low-sleep, low-food days: breathing exercises, light movement, gratitude micro-meditations, future journaling, and morning routines that shift your biochemistry fast. You’ll discover why sleep and nutrition are foundational, how to process triggers and “memorized emotions,” and how to radiate steadiness kids naturally copy.
Big idea: Nothing gets better until you do. When you upgrade your inner state, parenting gets easier, marriage gets warmer, and home feels safe again. This is how you cultivate a family culture of peace, courage, and joy—without pretending or suppressing.
Try this today (1-minute reset): Stand tall, inhale 4, hold 4, exhale 6 (x6 rounds). Add one gratitude sentence and smile on purpose. Notice the shift—then go connect.
Key Takeaways
✅ Nothing gets better until you do — when you raise your state, your family follows.
✅ Kids imitate without regulation — they copy your energy, good or bad.
✅ Trying to “stay calm” is masking — practice authentic emotional expression.
✅ Sleep & food drive mood — protect your physiology to parent better.
✅ Quick resets work — breathing, movement, posture, and gratitude change your state fast.
✅ Every family has an emotional thermostat — set yours higher on purpose.
✅ Mentor, don’t micromanage — see misbehavior as a cry for help and coach skills.
Memorable Quote:
🗣️ “Nothing gets better until I do.”
🗣️ “Kids imitate without regulation—set the state you want repeated.”
🗣️ “Trying to be calm isn’t calm. Authentic peace is felt, not faked.”
Chapters
00:00 Navigating Emotional States in Parenting
01:10 The Impact of Emotions on Family Dynamics
02:28 Understanding Emotional Responses and Reactions
03:54 The Role of Self-Care in Emotional Well-Being
05:29 Practicing Emotional Authenticity
06:51 Strategies for Changing Emotional States
08:21 The Ripple Effect of Parental Emotions
10:44 Emotional Literacy and Family Dynamics
12:21 The Emotional Thermostat of the Family
16:24 Understanding the Emotional Thermostat
20:58 Practical Strategies for Emotional Regulation
24:11 The Role of Parenting in Emotional Development
27:37 Seeing Children's Behaviors as Cries for Help
RESOURCES:
Let us help you in your extraordinary family life journey.
How We Raised 7 Well-Adjusted Kids - Without Yelling, Tantrums, Punishments or Power Struggles (+ get THE CHECKLIST: Things We Do Every Day to Raise Well-Adjusted Kids)
Rachel’s Must-Read Booklist for Well-Read Moms
Follow us on Instagram: @worldschoolfamily or @greg.denning
Don’t miss out on the Extraordinary Parent Mentoring Method class!
Get Rachel's Family Systems & Charts
Get Rachel’s Extraordinary Family Life Planner
JOIN GREG'S 90-DAY HEALTH & FITNESS CHALLENGE!
Gather with us at the World School Family (Beach & Farm) Resort in Portugal
Do you feel good in your own home?
Does your family culture feel like a safe, joyful refuge—or more like constant conflict and stress?
Most parents spend 90% of their time fixing problems instead of preventing them. But what if the secret to a thriving home is in the things you never do?
In this video, Greg and Rachel Denning—parents of 7 and family coaches—reveal the small but powerful “never-do’s” that transformed their parenting and family culture. From eliminating sarcasm and insults, to saying no to video games, TV, and constant notifications, these intentional choices create a home environment where kids feel secure, confident, and deeply attached.
They share why attachment—not punishment—prevents misbehavior, how harshness backfires, and why saying “no” to outside noise means saying “yes” to family connection.
Raising kids is already hard enough. But by eliminating just a few destructive habits, you can dramatically reduce sibling rivalry, power struggles, and emotional distance in your home.
👉 Tune in to discover the things we NEVER do as parents that helped us raise 7 happy, respectful, and resilient kids—and learn how you can create a family culture your children (and others!) love to be part of.
Key Takeaways
✅ Eliminating sarcasm & insults builds trust and confidence.
✅ Harshness and yelling create distance instead of respect.
✅ Strong attachment prevents misbehavior better than punishment.
✅ No video games, TV, or junk food = more energy, focus, and peace.
✅ Saying “no” to distractions means saying “yes” to family.
Memorable Quotes
🗣️ “If you don’t want to trade lives with someone, don’t take their advice.”
🗣️ “We never say mean or hurtful things to our children—ever.”
🗣️ “Harshness creates distance and fragility, which causes misbehavior.”
🗣️ “Eliminate the baby dragons before they grow into monsters.”
🗣️ “Other families send their kids to live with us because they love our family culture.”
Chapters
00:00 The Importance of Small Changes in Family Dynamics
01:09 Creating a Positive Family Culture
03:05 The Impact of Sarcasm and Teasing
05:43 Building Strong Attachments Through Love
07:30 The Dangers of Harsh Parenting
10:19 The Role of Technology in Family Interactions
16:21 Intentional Living and Productivity
17:36 The Impact of Video Games on Success
18:18 Media Consumption: Radio and TV
19:45 The Power of Saying No
21:03 Healthy Lifestyle Choices
21:56 Communication and Emotional Authenticity
23:32 Addressing Problems Early
25:51 Creating a Positive Family Culture
RESOURCES:
Let us help you in your extraordinary family life journey.
How We Raised 7 Well-Adjusted Kids - Without Yelling, Tantrums, Punishments or Power Struggles (+ get THE CHECKLIST: Things We Do Every Day to Raise Well-Adjusted Kids)
Rachel’s Must-Read Booklist for Well-Read Moms
Follow us on Instagram: @worldschoolfamily or @greg.denning
Don’t miss out on the Extraordinary Parent Mentoring Method class!
Get Rachel's Family Systems & Charts
Get Rachel’s Extraordinary Family Life Planner
JOIN GREG'S 90-DAY HEALTH & FITNESS CHALLENGE!
Are you settling for a “make it work” marriage when you could build an extraordinary one?
Most couples drift into survival mode—roommates, not lovers—because they’ve never seen an amazing marriage modeled… and no one taught them the skills. In this episode, Greg & Rachel Denning share how to raise your marriage standard, resolve conflict fast (the “anatomy of an argument”), and build a shared vision that turns everyday life into marital bliss—without pretending problems don’t exist.
Big idea: If you’re not deliberately working on your marriage, you’re automatically working on your divorce.You’ll learn how to stop the same old fights, praise small efforts to reinforce positive change, schedule what matters (yes, intimacy!), and use the compound effect to transform your relationship. Whether things are tough or “fine,” these tools help you move from okay → incredible so your kids grow up with healthy models of love.
What you’ll learn
Raise the standard: Why “make it work” is too low a target—and how high expectations create more happiness.
Anatomy of an argument: Resolve conflicts quickly (not fake fixes) and stop weaponizing old grievances.
Shared vision: Practical steps to get on the same page even if personalities and goals differ.
Reinforce progress: Praise small attempts (date night invites, thoughtful gestures) so they happen more often.
Schedule what matters: How planning creates space for connection & intimacy—instead of constant friction.
Compound effect: The habits you invest in today build your legacy tomorrow.
Key Takeaways
✅ If you aren’t intentionally improving your marriage, you’re unintentionally degrading it.
✅ High standards produce higher joy and better outcomes.
✅ Conflict ≠ contention—you can disagree respectfully and resolve fast.
✅ Model love for your kids by prioritizing the relationship at home.
✅ Small, consistent actions compound into an extraordinary marriage.
Chapters
00:00 The Importance of Marriage
02:56 From Mediocre to Extraordinary
05:53 Setting High Expectations for Marriage
08:25 Conflict Resolution in Marriage
11:51 Self-Sabotage in Relationships
16:43 Creating Mental Space for Intimacy
18:16 The Importance of Retreats for Couples
18:49 Investing in Marriage: The Compounding Effect
20:28 Breaking Generational Patterns in Relationships
22:17 Creating a Shared Vision for the Future
22:44 Raising the Standard in Marriage
24:36 The Role of Coaching in Relationship Growth
27:04 The Value of Investing in Your Marriage
Memorable Quotes
🗣 “If you’re not deliberately working on your marriage, you’re automatically working on your divorce.”
🗣 “In marriage, we get what we tolerate—so raise the standard.”
🗣 “Conflict isn’t fighting; it’s the path to real resolution.”
🗣 “Praise small efforts. That’s how you get more of them.”
🗣 “Extraordinary isn’t accidental—it’s intentional and consistent.”
RESOURCES:
Let us help you in your extraordinary family life journey.
How We Raised 7 Well-Adjusted Kids - Without Yelling, Tantrums, Punishments or Power Struggles (+ get THE CHECKLIST: Things We Do Every Day to Raise Well-Adjusted Kids)
Rachel’s Must-Read Booklist for Well-Read Moms
Follow us on Instagram: @worldschoolfamily or @greg.denning
Don’t miss out on the Extraordinary Parent Mentoring Method class!
Get Rachel's Family Systems & Charts
Get Rachel’s Extraordinary Family Life Planner
JOIN GREG'S 90-DAY HEALTH & FITNESS CHALLENGE!
Gather with us at the World School Family (Beach & Farm) Resort in Portugal
Is the “nuclear family” actually traditional—or even healthy—for your kids and marriage?
In this conversation, Greg & Rachel challenge a BIG cultural myth: the nuclear family (mom + dad + kids, all on their own) isn’t historically normal—and it’s often unhealthy and lonely in today’s hyper-digital world. Instead, they unpack what families did for most of human history—intergenerational, community-based, “tribal” living—and how ordinary parents can start moving that direction without selling everything or going off-grid.
You’ll learn how to question handed-down narratives, re-design work, school, and home life, and flip the ratio so your family spends more time together than apart—building skills, wealth, and resilience as a team.
Highlights you'll hear:
Why isolation (9–5 + separate schools + separate lives) isn’t “traditional”—it’s recent.
How multigenerational & community living builds real support, mental health, and generational wealth.
Simple first steps: shared meals, home projects, family business ideas, skill-building, and flexible work.
The future of family in the age of AI: double down on what only humans do—connection, empathy, creativity.
A practical reframe: “What would have to be true for us to live, learn, and work together more?”
If you’re tired of doing family alone, this episode shows a realistic path toward tribe-style living—whether you’re in a city apartment, suburban neighborhood, or a budding homestead. You don’t need to move tomorrow; you just need to start asking better questions today.
Key Takeaways
✅ The nuclear family is modern, not “traditional.”
✅ Community > isolation for happiness, mental health, and stability.
✅ Shared work/learning = faster maturity, marketable skills, and generational wealth.
✅ Design life on purpose: meals together, family projects, aligned work/school choices.
✅ AI future = be more human: build in-person connection and a supportive tribe.
Chapters
00:00 Questioning Conventional Family Norms
02:53 The Evolution of Family Structures
05:48 The Importance of Community and Connection
08:28 Exploring Unconventional Lifestyles
11:23 Redefining Family Dynamics
14:01 The Future of Family Life
16:35 Creating a Supportive Family Environment
19:48 Building Generational Wealth Together
22:30 Embracing Change and New Possibilities
25:12 Living Life on Your Own Terms
28:18 The Role of Technology in Family Life
31:06 Designing Your Ideal Family Life
Memorable Quotes
🗣 “Question all the narratives—especially the ones that keep your family apart.”
🗣 “The nuclear family isn’t ancient; community living is.”
🗣 “Flip the ratio: more time together, less time apart.”
🗣 “In an AI world, double down on what’s human—connection and creation.”
RESOURCES:
Let us help you in your extraordinary family life journey.
How We Raised 7 Well-Adjusted Kids - Without Yelling, Tantrums, Punishments or Power Struggles (+ get THE CHECKLIST: Things We Do Every Day to Raise Well-Adjusted Kids)
Rachel’s Must-Read Booklist for Well-Read Moms
Follow us on Instagram: @worldschoolfamily or @greg.denning
Don’t miss out on the Extraordinary Parent Mentoring Method class!
Get Rachel's Family Systems & Charts
Get Rachel’s Extraordinary Family Life Planner
JOIN GREG'S 90-DAY HEALTH & FITNESS CHALLENGE!
Do you feel like parenting is one constant power struggle?
The truth is, your kids don’t need more control—they need more independence. In this episode, Greg and Rachel Denning share their proven “fortress framework” for raising confident kids: strong family boundaries on the outside, with freedom to choose inside.
This approach gives children the chance to practice decision-making, learn from natural consequences, and grow into responsible, respectful adults—without constant nagging, yelling, or punishments.
👉 In this episode, you’ll discover:
Why independence in children leads to long-term happiness and cooperation.
The difference between authoritative vs. authoritarian parenting.
How to meet physiological needs first (sleep, protein, stable blood sugar) to prevent meltdowns.
Why teaching the “why” creates respect and lasting change.
How to stop the tug-of-war and end daily battles around meals, bedtime, and routines.
Bottom line: Parenting doesn’t have to be this hard. When you create freedom within boundaries, your kids naturally choose responsibility, respect, and joy.
Key Takeaways
✅ Control the environment, not the child—freedom thrives inside safe boundaries.
✅ Independence in children grows through daily decision-making practice.
✅ Natural consequences are better teachers than punishments.
✅ Meet basic needs first—most misbehavior starts with hunger or fatigue.
✅ Teach the why—understanding builds respect and self-control.
✅ Stop tug-of-wars: kids resist less when you stop pushing.
✅ Let kids make small mistakes early to avoid big mistakes later.
✅ Respect is mutual: kids rise to the level of respect they’re given.
✅ Authoritative parenting = firm rules, warm guidance, steady teaching.
✅ The natural state of kids is happiness when independence is respected.
Memorable Quotes
🗣️ “Independence in children is built one choice at a time.”
🗣️ “Control the fortress, not the child—that’s where growth happens.”
🗣️ “Your child’s natural state is happiness—when needs are met and freedom is respected.”
🗣️ “Natural consequences do the teaching better than punishments ever could.”
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Parenting Challenges
01:05 Understanding Nuances in Parenting
03:02 The Importance of Control vs. Freedom
06:23 Creating a Safe Environment for Independence
08:16 Teaching Decision-Making Skills
10:09 Learning Through Experience
13:26 Respecting Autonomy in Parenting
15:52 Understanding Authority in Parenting
18:26 The Importance of Mutual Respect
20:12 Identifying the Natural State of Children
21:11 The Role of Environment in Child Well-being
21:45 Creating a Fortress of Safety
24:19 Rethinking Meal Times and Food Control
25:51 The Impact of Control on Family Dynamics
RESOURCES:
Let us help you in your extraordinary family life journey.
How We Raised 7 Well-Adjusted Kids - Without Yelling, Tantrums, Punishments or Power Struggles (+ get THE CHECKLIST: Things We Do Every Day to Raise Well-Adjusted Kids)
Rachel’s Must-Read Booklist for Well-Read Moms
Follow us on Instagram: @worldschoolfamily or @greg.denning
Don’t miss out on the Extraordinary Parent Mentoring Method class!
Get Rachel's Family Systems & Charts
Get Rachel’s Extraordinary Family Life Planner
JOIN GREG'S 90-DAY HEALTH & FITNESS CHALLENGE!
Are you exhausted from trying to do all the right things—but still feel like your family life isn’t extraordinary?
You’re not alone.
Many parents work tirelessly to manage schedules, teach principles, read parenting books, pray, practice gratitude, and still feel burnt out, disconnected, and frustrated.
In this episode, Greg and Rachel Denning unpack a heartfelt question from a listener who has been “doing it all” since 2020—yet still feels stuck. Together, they reveal why doing more isn’t the solution and why misaligned priorities, half-hearted effort, and misplaced energy may be keeping you from the extraordinary life you crave.
👉 You’ll learn:
Why trying is not the same as doing (and why results don’t come from effort alone).
The secret to shifting from dread and obligation to joy and fulfillment in daily family life.
How to know when your priorities are out of alignment—even when you think you’re focused on the right things.
Why gratitude, surrender, and modeling are the most powerful ways to influence your family.
The “two-sided coin” of success: working hard while also letting go and allowing flow.
This conversation will challenge you to stop tolerating mediocrity, celebrate your progress, and focus with intention on the things that truly matter most—your health, your marriage, your joy, and your family.
✨ If you’ve been wondering, “Why am I still not living the extraordinary family life I want?”—this episode will give you clarity and courage to finally change.
Key Takeaways
✅ Trying ≠ Doing. Real change only comes when you follow through consistently.
✅ Model first: your kids and spouse will follow your example more than your words.
✅ Gratitude & surrender shift your energy and attract more of what you want.
✅ Your priorities are the proof—if you dread “good” things, something’s off.
✅ Success is holistic: you can’t win at work but lose at home and call it extraordinary.
✅ Do less, but better—focus on the few things that bring real results and joy.
Memorable Quotes
🗣️ “The brain’s like a garden—it doesn’t care what you plant.”
🗣️ “Trying isn’t doing. Results only come from doing.”
🗣️ “If you want your kids to change, you must model the change first.”
🗣️ “Your priorities are out of alignment if you dread the very things that should bring you joy.”
🗣️ “Gratitude and letting go bring more of the good things you want into your life.”
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Holistic Success
03:38 The Struggle for Balance in Life
06:31 The Importance of Prioritizing Relationships
09:30 The Role of Modeling in Family Dynamics
12:08 Navigating Challenges in Parenting
15:09 The Complexity of Emotional Needs
17:54 The Power of Gratitude and Positive Focus
21:05 Recognizing Progress and Direction
23:55 Celebrating Small Wins
26:32 The Journey Towards Extraordinary Family Life
41:32 Prioritizing Pleasure in Relationships
46:54 The Importance of Personal Health and Ownership
53:50 Leading by Example: The Power of Personal Change
59:43 Finding Joy in the Journey
01:06:40 The Balance of Doing and Allowing
01:16:05 Clarity and Intuition in Action
RESOURCES:
Let us help you in your extraordinary family life journey.
How We Raised 7 Well-Adjusted Kids - Without Yelling, Tantrums, Punishments or Power Struggles (+ get THE CHECKLIST: Things We Do Every Day to Raise Well-Adjusted Kids)
Rachel’s Must-Read Booklist for Well-Read Moms
Follow us on Instagram: @worldschoolfamily or @greg.denning
Don’t miss out on the Extraordinary Parent Mentoring Method class!
Get Rachel's Family Systems & Charts
Get Rachel’s Extraordinary Family Life Planner
JOIN GREG'S 90-DAY HEALTH & FITNESS CHALLENGE!
Do you ever feel so overwhelmed by a big goal that you back away and settle for “safe”?
Here’s the truth: in order to succeed, you have to fail more. And you’ll have problems either way—so why not live an awesome life? In this episode, Rachel & Greg break down the mindset and method they’ve used for 23+ years to make bold decisions, face fear, and move forward even when it’s scary.
You’ll learn how to:
Flip fear from a stop sign into a signal you’re on the right path
Use the “exchange rate” test to decide if a dream is worth the price
Shrink overwhelm with step-by-step moves (exposure in bite-sized reps)
See how obstacles transform you into the person who can live your dream
Adopt the mantra: “I’ll either find a way—or I’ll make one.”
Bottom line: your fears aren’t facts. When you face them strategically, the “impossible” becomes doable—and your life expands.
Key Takeaways
✅ Overwhelm means growth is near, not that you should quit.
✅ Problems are guaranteed; choose the ones that lead to an extraordinary life.
✅ Exposure beats avoidance: tiny reps dissolve massive fears.
✅ Decide by “exchange rate”: is the cost (work/problems) worth the outcome?
✅ Identity shift: obstacles forge the person who can hold the life you want.
Chapters
00:00 Embracing the Sun: A Controversial Perspective
01:09 The Catalyst for Extraordinary Living
02:26 Overcoming Overwhelm: The Decision to Act
04:17 Facing Challenges: The Path to Growth
06:10 The Irony of Fear: Choosing a Boring Life
08:39 Transforming Fear into Opportunity
11:18 Breaking Through Barriers: The Edge of Comfort
13:45 Processing Fear: A Journey of Growth
15:29 The Power of Facing Fears
20:41 The Importance of Awareness in Overcoming Fear
24:05 Living Beyond Limits: The Flea Analogy
Memorable Quotes
🗣 “In order to succeed, you have to fail more.”
🗣 “Either way you have problems—so why not live an awesome life?”
🗣 “That ‘overwhelm’ is often the doorway—not a dead end.”
🗣 “I’ll either find a way or I’ll make one.”
🗣 “Obstacles transform you into the person who can live the dream.”
🗣 “Why would anyone choose to live a boring life?”
RESOURCES:
Let us help you in your extraordinary family life journey.
How We Raised 7 Well-Adjusted Kids - Without Yelling, Tantrums, Punishments or Power Struggles (+ get THE CHECKLIST: Things We Do Every Day to Raise Well-Adjusted Kids)
Rachel’s Must-Read Booklist for Well-Read Moms
Follow us on Instagram: @worldschoolfamily or @greg.denning
Don’t miss out on the Extraordinary Parent Mentoring Method class!
Get Rachel's Family Systems & Charts
Get Rachel’s Extraordinary Family Life Planner
JOIN GREG'S 90-DAY HEALTH & FITNESS CHALLENGE!
Why are so many teens today collapsing under ordinary challenges?
Things seem hard because we are soft. After decades of comfort, convenience, and ease, too many kids haven’t been forged by healthy discomfort—so everyday life feels overwhelming.
In this episode, Greg and Rachel Denning reveal why today’s teens are unprepared to launch—and how parents can strategically build resilience, grit, and holistic toughness without becoming harsh or hard-hearted.
Key Takeaways:
✅ Use micro doses of discomfort—workouts, cold showers, chores, social reps—to build daily resilience
✅ Plan macro doses of challenge—travel, service, treks, adventures—to forge lasting grit
✅ Avoid raising “squishy kids” who collapse under stress, rejection, or discomfort
✅ Teach kids emotional strength and sensitivity without raising entitled adults
✅ Prepare your children to handle setbacks, stress, and even crisis with courage
Bottom line: If you don’t add challenge, the world will—and it won’t be gentle. Parents must be deliberate about raising strong, well-rounded kids who are ready to launch into adulthood with confidence.
✨ Memorable Quotes
🗣 “Things seem hard because we are soft.”
🗣 “We can’t just be helpless little babies that can’t do anything.”
🗣 “Do insanely difficult things so the hard things of life feel like no big deal.”
🗣 “Our kids don’t need Disneyland—they need Kilimanjaro.”
🗣 “The only way to earn toughness is to do hard things.”
🗣 “If you don’t strategically add challenge, life will—and it won’t be gentle.”
Chapters:
00:00 The Importance of Grit in Parenting
02:40 Generational Cycles and Their Impact
05:15 The Crisis of Modern Youth
08:13 Resilience and Emotional Intelligence
10:53 The Comfort Crisis: A Modern Dilemma
13:26 Building Grit Through Experience
16:11 The Role of Family in Developing Strength
19:16 Micro and Macro Dosing Hardship
21:48 The Value of Challenging Experiences
24:32 The Dangers of Overprotection
27:35 Holistic Development in Families
30:11 Creating a Supportive Community
32:47 The Role of Perspective in Parenting
35:55 Navigating Modern Challenges
38:35 The Importance of Real Experiences
41:21 The Impact of Virtual Reality on Youth
43:50 Choosing Discomfort for Growth
46:48 The Power of Shared Experiences
49:32 Strategic Parenting for Resilience
52:14 Building a Legacy of Strength
🎉 It’s not too late to join!
Fall 2025 Habits for a Successful Life Online Class for Teens → Learn More Here
Help your teen build life skills, confidence, and discipline.
RESOURCES:
Let us help you in your extraordinary family life journey.
How We Raised 7 Well-Adjusted Kids - Without Yelling, Tantrums, Punishments or Power Struggles (+ get THE CHECKLIST: Things We Do Every Day to Raise Well-Adjusted Kids)
Rachel’s Must-Read Booklist for Well-Read Moms
Follow us on Instagram: @worldschoolfamily or @greg.denning
Don’t miss out on the Extraordinary Parent Mentoring Method class!
Get Rachel's Family Systems & Charts
Get Rachel’s Extraordinary Family Life Planner
JOIN GREG'S 90-DAY HEALTH & FITNESS CHALLENGE!
Do you ever tell yourself you’re just being “content” or “grateful”—when in reality you’re actually settling for less than the life you truly want?
In this powerful episode, Greg & Rachel Denning pull back the curtain on how false contentment quietly keeps parents stuck in unhappy routines—and why so many families end up living what they call an unhappy dream.
You’ll discover why true happiness doesn’t come from removing desire, but from pursuing your best desires—and how embracing what we call “divine discontent” is the real catalyst for growth, joy, and lasting fulfillment.
Instead of numbing out with distractions or convincing yourself you “should just be grateful,” you’ll learn how to:
- Raise your standards and stop tolerating mediocrity in your health, marriage, parenting, and personal growth
- Recognize the difference between gratitude and complacency—and why confusing the two keeps you stuck
- Do the inner work first so you can become the kind of parent and leader your kids want to follow
- Pursue challenges instead of avoiding them so you build the strength and confidence you need to thrive
-Create a family life you don’t need to escape from—one filled with meaning, adventure, and joy
If you’re ready to stop settling, face what’s really holding you back, and design a life you genuinely love, this episode is your wake-up call.
Key Takeaways
✅ True happiness comes from pursuit, not from removing desire.
✅ Divine discontent is healthy—stop tolerating what harms your life.
✅ You teach who you are: do the inner work first, every day.
✅ Swap “survive the day” for strategic focus + strategic disengagement.
✅ Choose challenge over comfort to stay mentally and emotionally healthy.
✅ Progress across six domains (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, social, financial).
✅ If you don’t like the outcome, raise your standards—then match them with action.
✅ Use the power-tool approach (coaching, systems) to collapse time and results.
✨ Memorable Quotes
🗣 “True happiness does not come from removing desire. True happiness comes from pursuing your best desires.”
🗣 “Find more happiness by refusing to be content with circumstances you don’t like.”
🗣 “If you don’t live the message, you suck as the messenger.”
🗣 “The chief cause of failure is trading what you want most for what you want now.”
🗣 “You get what you tolerate—so stop tolerating it.”
⏱️ Chapters
00:00 Why “Contentment” Keeps Families Stuck
01:59 Divine Discontent: The Key to Growth
05:19 True Happiness Comes From Pursuit
07:47 Productivity & Strategic Rest
09:07 Balancing Goals Without Burnout
12:04 Why Coaching Collapses Time
16:29 Sacrifice & Ownership in Parenting
18:35 Start With What You DON’T Want
21:48 Taking Full Responsibility
23:44 Choosing Challenge Over Comfort
25:29 The Cost of Complacency
26:57 How to Create the Life You Really Want
RESOURCES:
Let us help you in your extraordinary family life journey.
How We Raised 7 Well-Adjusted Kids - Without Yelling, Tantrums, Punishments or Power Struggles (+ get THE CHECKLIST: Things We Do Every Day to Raise Well-Adjusted Kids)
Rachel’s Must-Read Booklist for Well-Read Moms
Follow us on Instagram: @worldschoolfamily or @greg.denning
Don’t miss out on the Extraordinary Parent Mentoring Method class!
Get Rachel's Family Systems & Charts
JOIN GREG'S 90-DAY HEALTH & FITNESS CHALLENGE!
Gather with us at the World School Family (Beach & Farm) Resort in Portugal
Do you feel like your spouse won’t change—no matter what you try?Have you been tolerating non-improvement and calling it “keeping the peace”?
In this episode, Greg & Rachel Denning share a practical blueprint for creating real change in marriage—without nagging, power struggles, or giving ultimatums. You’ll learn how to earn influence (instead of demanding it), build psychological safety so growth is possible, and use pattern interrupts to break the same old fights.
They unpack why couples stall out—no shared vision, unresolved wounds, holes in the relationship “bucket,” and mixed signals that make one spouse armor up. You’ll get specific tools to create safety, raise standards, and stop tolerating non-improvement—so your marriage actually gets better month by month.
What we cover:
- Why “it’s okay to be wounded—but not to stay wounded.”
- How to earn your spouse’s attention & respect (and keep it).
- Pattern interrupts that disarm conflict and reset connection.
- The Bucket Test: plug the leaks killing motivation & desire.
- Strategic praise (what to amplify so it multiplies).
- The Shared Vision your marriage needs to stay motivated.
- When one spouse levels up—and what to do if the other resists.
- Tough talks done right: letters, timing, tone, and follow-through.
Bottom line: In life, you get what you tolerate. Don’t accept non-improvement. Use these tools to create safety, raise the standard, and build a marriage where both partners keep growing.
📌 Key Takeaways
✅ Influence is earned, not demanded—become the person your spouse wants to follow.
✅ Safety first: no one grows while armored—reduce criticism, increase sincere praise.
✅ Pattern interrupts break the drama triangle and open space for change.
✅ Shared vision fuels motivation; without it, marriages drift.
✅ Stop tolerating non-improvement—lovingly raise the standard and keep it.
Memorable Quotes
🗣 “Do not accept non-improvement. In life, you get what you tolerate.”
🗣 “It’s **okay to be wounded—**it’s not okay to stay wounded.”
🗣 “Earn the right to be heard; influence follows respect.”
🗣 “Our most difficult conversations led to our biggest positive changes.”
🗣 “Whatever you’re doing isn’t working? Do the opposite—create a pattern interrupt.”
Chapters:
02:24 Creating a Safe Space for Your Spouse to Improve
04:39 Using Pattern Interrupters to Break Negative Cycles
07:49 The Power of Reciprocity in Influencing Your Spouse
11:23 The Importance of Self-Improvement in Helping Your Spouse
17:04 The Power of Daily Affection and Verbal Expressions of Love
18:27 The Significance of a Shared Vision
22:45 The Role of Difficult Conversations in Positive Change
27:43 Embracing Difficult Conversations for Personal Growth
RESOURCES:
Let us help you in your extraordinary family life journey.
How We Raised 7 Well-Adjusted Kids - Without Yelling, Tantrums, Punishments or Power Struggles (+ get THE CHECKLIST: Things We Do Every Day to Raise Well-Adjusted Kids)
Rachel’s Must-Read Booklist for Well-Read Moms
Follow us on Instagram: @worldschoolfamily or @greg.denning
Don’t miss out on the Extraordinary Parent Mentoring Method class!
Get Rachel's Family Systems & Charts
Join the Do More With Less Stress Workshop Series for busy moms
Join Greg’s 7-Day Challenge
JOIN GREG'S 90-DAY HEALTH & FITNESS CHALLENGE!
Gather with us at the World School Family (Beach & Farm) Resort in Portugal
Read our reviews here: https://podcast.extraordinaryfamilylife.com/reviews/
Are you worried about your kids rebelling as teenagers?
Do you ever wonder if your parenting style today is planting the seeds of future rebellion—or resilience?
In this episode, Greg and Rachel Denning tackle the controversial connection between “restaurant parenting” and teenage rebellion. They share why forcing your children to “behave perfectly” in public often backfires, and how double standards in parenting create resentment and distance that can last for decades.
Instead, they reveal a better way: building congruence, fostering autonomy, and meeting your child’s deepest needs for love, certainty, identity, and adventure. When you allow children to “act their age,” explain the why behind rules, and respect their growing independence, you prevent destructive rebellion and instead raise courageous, confident adults.
This powerful conversation explores:
Why unmet needs lead to rebellion (and how to meet them early)
The difference between healthy vs. unhealthy rebellion
How giving your kids autonomy strengthens respect and influence
Why congruence between public and private parenting matters most
How to prevent resentment from turning into long-term rebellion
The secret to keeping influence with your kids as they grow into teens and adults
If you want to raise teens who respect you, trust you, and stay connected—without power struggles, yelling, or forced obedience— this episode will shift the way you see rebellion forever.
📌 Key Takeaways
✅ Teenage rebellion often begins with unmet needs for love, acceptance, and autonomy.
✅ Consistency and congruence between public and private parenting builds trust.
✅ Healthy rebellion (risk-taking, questioning rules) prepares kids for adulthood.
✅ Influence with your teens is earned by respect—not forced obedience.
✅ Parenting long-term means thinking about the adults you want to raise, not just the behavior you want today.
🎙 Memorable Quotes
🗣 “If you ever try to make it a power struggle, even if you win—you lose.”
🗣 “The time to think about teenage rebellion is when your baby is born.”
🗣 “Resentment always comes from a need that’s not being met.”
🗣 “You don’t prevent rebellion by controlling kids—you prevent it by giving them autonomy.”
🗣 “Never stop earning your children’s respect. Be a respectable person.”
🎉 Enrollment is now open for our Fall 2025
Habits for a Successful Life Online Class for Teens → Learn More Here
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Parenting Challenges
04:05 Understanding Teenage Rebellion
07:17 The Concept of Restaurant Parenting
11:08 Building Healthy Relationships with Teens
16:10 Creating a Healthy Environment for Choices
18:21 The Importance of Earning Respect
19:58 Understanding Teenage Rebellion
22:32 Healthy vs. Unhealthy Rebellion
25:19 Teaching Critical Thinking and Rule-Breaking
31:18 Questioning Parenting Norms
RESOURCES:
Let us help you in your extraordinary family life journey.
How We Raised 7 Well-Adjusted Kids - Without Yelling, Tantrums, Punishments or Power Struggles (+ get THE CHECKLIST: Things We Do Every Day to Raise Well-Adjusted Kids)
Rachel’s Must-Read Booklist for Well-Read Moms
Follow us on Instagram: @worldschoolfamily or @greg.denning
Don’t miss out on the Extraordinary Parent Mentoring Method class!
Get Rachel's Family Systems & Charts
Join the Do More With Less Stress Workshop Series for busy moms
Join Greg’s 7-Day Challenge
JOIN GREG'S 90-DAY HEALTH & FITNESS CHALLENGE!
Gather with us at the World School Family (Beach & Farm) Resort in Portugal
Read our reviews here: https://podcast.extraordinaryfamilylife.com/reviews/
Are you worried about how porn might be impacting your teen—or afraid to even bring up the conversation?
Studies show that up to 90% of boys and young men are consuming porn, often starting as young as eight years old. And the truth is, it’s not harmless. Porn rewires the brain, damages real-life relationships, distorts healthy sexuality, and fuels depression, anxiety, and disconnection.
In this episode, Greg and Rachel Denning break down the science, psychology, and social impact of porn use—and why parents must step up with courage, clarity, and compassion.
We’ll explore:
🚫 Why porn alters the brain’s dopamine baseline and destroys joy in real life
🧠 The biological and psychological effects on teen mental health
❤️ How to talk openly about sex, attraction, and healthy intimacy (without shame)
📱 The role of smartphones, sneaky behavior, and the need for parental accountability
🔑 Practical strategies to protect your kids AND help them build self-control, grit, and resilience
Porn isn’t going away. But with the right knowledge, conversations, and boundaries, you can prepare your teens to choose a healthier, more fulfilling path for their future relationships and happiness.
Key Takeaways:
✅ Healthy sexuality is good—pornography is destructive.
✅ Dopamine overload from porn creates depression, anxiety, and sexual dysfunction.
✅ Teens need open, shame-free conversations about sex and attraction.
✅ Parental restrictions alone aren’t enough—kids need guidance and modeling.
✅ Sneaky behavior is more dangerous than simple exposure.
✅ Internal motivation and self-mastery protect kids when parents aren’t around.
Memorable Quotes:
🗣️ “Good kids still struggle with porn—it doesn’t make them bad, but it is destructive.”
🗣️ “Sneaky, slimy behavior is always more dangerous than exposure itself.”
🗣️ “If you don’t teach your kids, society will—and you won’t like the results.”
🗣️ “Healthy sexuality is normal. Porn is not.”
🗣️ “Resentment comes from control. Resilience comes from teaching.”
📌 Chapters:
00:00 The Impact of Pornography on Society
12:07 Understanding the Biological and Psychological Effects
23:52 Navigating Conversations About Sexuality with Children
29:29 Strategies for Guiding Children in the Digital Age
31:36 Educating Ourselves and Our Children
33:16 Tools for Managing Screen Time
36:53 Creating Practice Zones for Self-Control
39:11 Encouraging Self-Reflection and Accountability
41:19 The Importance of Meaningful Engagement
44:23 Modeling Healthy Tech Use
46:32 Navigating Struggles with Compassion
48:18 Understanding Shame and Accountability
52:18 Developing Internal Guidance Systems
56:11 Extreme Measures for Self-Discipline
🎉 Enrollment is now open for our Fall 2025
Habits for a Successful Life Online Class for Teens → Learn More Here
Formidable Family Man Podcast episode mentioned on this topic: #90 Stopping Porn for Good: Rewiring the Addicted Brain with Dr. Trish Leigh https://youtu.be/ybRopd24arI
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