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

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

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

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

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

Find more of Maribou Kids @mariboukids

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