In this episode, Susan explores one of the most powerful truths about parenting: that the most important thing we can do for our children is to work on ourselves. Drawing inspiration from Dr. Gabor Maté’s insight and her training in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Susan explains how our emotional state, unresolved wounds, and inner “parts” profoundly shape our children’s sense of safety and connection. She shares simple, compassionate ways to notice when we’re triggered, name the parts that get activated, and return to our calm, wise “Captain” self. https://go.susanstiffelman.com/parenting-as-healing-podcast

In this episode, Susan emphasizes the importance of emotional connection between parents and children, even amid the busyness of daily life. She reassures parents that deep closeness doesn’t require elaborate outings or large chunks of time, but can be nurtured through small, intentional practices like sharing a genuine smile, creating five-minute rituals, repairing after moments of tension, and entering a child’s world by showing interest in what they love. She encourages cultivating these small habits of connection to not only strengthens a child’s sense of being seen and valued, but also to nourish parents, filling both with greater closeness, joy, and resilience. https://pages.susanstiffelman.com/nurturing-closeness-podcast

In this episode, Susan explores the important difference between threats and boundaries in parenting. Susan illustrates the contrast between threats and boundaries using real-life examples—such as homework, chores, and screen time. She highlights how shifting from reactive threats to steady boundaries strengthens trust and cooperation while giving children the security and clarity they need. https://pages.susanstiffelman.com/threats-boundaries-podcast