Ever wonder why having all the parenting knowledge in the world still doesn't make those daily power struggles any easier? Hi, I'm Natalie McCabe. I'm here with Suzie Forbes, a pediatric occupational therapist with 30 years of experience, mental health clinician, and parenting coach who's also a mom of two kids with big emotions. In this episode, we're talking about transforming daily parenting struggles into opportunities for meaningful connection, specifically addressing why professional knowledge doesn't always translate to smooth parenting. Here's what we cover:

• Why even experienced professionals struggle with imposter syndrome in parenting (and how Suzie's 30 years of expertise didn't prevent her morning sock battles)
• The surprising shift from "perfection to presence" that changed everything for one overwhelmed OT mom
• The Lighthouse Method: How to identify your core parenting values and use them to navigate any behavioral challenge
• The 16-sock morning battle that transformed into a treasured connection ritual with one simple mindset shift
• Why "letting them win" isn't actually losing—and how redefining your goals changes your entire family dynamic
• The deeper truth about children's behavior: How her daughter's sock sensitivity was really a bid for connection and control

This isn't about perfect parenting or complex strategies. It's the secret every overwhelmed mom needs: discovering your core values that guide you back to connection.

💬 Connect with Suzie: https://linktr.ee/forbes.suzie.otmamacoach Join our FREE, non-Facebook community where expert parent coaches and moms just like you share real strategies that work. Just head to nataliemccabe.com and click the Community tab. Want personalized help identifying your family's lighthouse and ending those daily power struggles? Book a FREE coaching call at nataliemccabe.com.

Does your child's inner voice say "I can't do this" or "I'm not good enough"?

Ever wonder if those automatic "good job" responses are actually helping build the confidence you want for your child?

Hi, I'm Natalie McCabe. In this episode, we're talking about specific praise, why generic compliments fall flat and how to give feedback that actually builds lasting confidence and resilience. I'm sharing the eye-opening classroom story that changed everything I knew about kids and self-talk, plus the exact formula for praise that transforms your child's internal voice.

Here's what we cover:

• The shocking discovery: Why half the kids couldn't name a single strength about themselves
• The difference between "empty calorie" praise and praise that nourishes confidence
• How to become a "strengths detective" and identify your child's unique gifts
• The simple 3-part formula for giving strength-based specific praise
• How to use praise to build resilience during challenging moment
• Why your voice becomes their internal voice (and how to make it count)

This isn't about perfect parenting or praising everything your child does. It's about recognizing the unique constellation of strengths your child already has and helping them see those gifts in themselves. Less generic "good jobs." More meaningful recognition. Real confidence building.

Ready to help your child develop that inner voice that says "I can handle this"?

Join our FREE, non-Facebook community and grab the strengths survey to identify your child's unique gifts. Just head to nataliemccabe.com and click the Community tab.

📞 Want personalized help building your child's confidence? Let's figure it out together. Book a FREE coaching call at nataliemccabe.com.

Is bedtime a nightly struggle filled with chaos, tears, and never-ending negotiations?

Ever wonder if it’s even possible to end the day with peace, connection, and sleep that actually restores everyone?

Hi, I’m Natalie McCabe. In this episode, we’re talking about bedtime—why it can be so tough and how to create a bedtime routine that really works for your family. I’m sharing simple shifts and doable strategies that can turn bedtime from a battle into a bonding moment.

Here’s what we cover:

• Why kids resist bedtime (it’s not just about being “overtired”)

• The three essential ingredients of a successful bedtime routine

• How to transition from chaos to calm without a power struggle

• What to do when your child keeps calling for “one more thing”

• How to stay consistent even on hard nights (without losing your cool)

This isn’t about being perfect or having a Pinterest-worthy nighttime schedule. It’s about creating a predictable rhythm that helps your child feel safe, seen, and ready for rest. Less drama. More snuggles. Real connection.

Ready to make bedtime something you both look forward to?

Join our FREE, non-Facebook community and connect with real moms and parenting coaches who get it. Just head to nataliemccabe.com and click the Community tab. 📞 Feeling stuck at bedtime? Let’s figure it out together. Book a FREE coaching call at nataliemccabe.com.