Raising a “Spicy One” with Calm, Kind, and Firm Love

Some kids arrive on the scene with opinions, volume, and a presence you can feel from two rooms away. They’re spirited, persistent, justice-seeking, wildly creative—and yes, sometimes wildly defiant. If that’s your child (or… you 🙋‍♀️), today’s episode with parenting coach and author Mary Van Geffen will feel like a deep exhale.

Mary’s new book, Parenting a Spicy One, is part memoir, part coaching manual. Together we talk about reimagining what it means to be a “good mom,” how to lead strong-willed kids without power struggles, and why repair—not perfection—builds true connection.