Imperfect Heroes: Insights Into Parenting

DJ Stutz
  • 5.0 (26)
  • PARENTING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Discover the joy in parenting with The Imperfect Heroes Podcast! DJ Stutz, an Early Childhood Specialist with over 20 years of teaching expertise, brings you insightful episodes to navigate the rewarding yet challenging journey of raising children. Join DJ and her guests as they share knowledge and experiences, offering valuable insights to empower you with confidence and peace. Become the imperfect hero, fostering independence, productivity, and happiness in your children's lives. Tune in for practical parenting tips and stories that resonate with your unique journey!

  1. Building Faith at Home: Practical Tips for Parents of Little Ones with Nancy Boyer

    MAY 5

    Building Faith at Home: Practical Tips for Parents of Little Ones with Nancy Boyer

    Send us a text Join DJ Stutz for the Season 5 finale of Imperfect Heroes: Insights into Parenting! Her guest, Nancy Boyer, is a mom of five and budding author, who shares how faith anchors her parenting. Nancy discusses losing both her parents during her teens, leaning on daily scripture, prayer, and community, and teaching kids to serve others. She highlights how their family’s faith’s impacts her children’s lives—perfect for parents of young kids wanting to nurture family values! With 200 episodes, this podcast covers countless topics to support your parenting journey. Go ahead and binge this summer to find the help you need! DJ invites your ideas for future episodes. She’s on a summer hiatus but she’ll be back in August with more wisdom. Follow the podcast for summer parenting tips! Time Stamps 4:56 Nancy opens up about losing her parents as a teen and how it shaped her faith.11:22 DJ and Nancy chat about building faith rituals with kids from a young age.21:40 They dive into how faith communities offer support and fun activities for kids.29:20 Nancy and DJ explore kids’ natural connection to faith and why their insights matter. Connect with Us! DJ Stutz - Podcast: https://www.imperfectheroespodcast.com/ Coaching and Resources Website:https://www.imperfectheroes.net/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheImperfectHeroes Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imperfect_heroes/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOpphCRklDJiFXdS76U0LSQ Rumble: https://rumble.com/v449rko DJ Stutz Calendar Link: https://bookme.name/Imperfectheroespodcast ONE ON ONE COACHING Link: https://www.littleheartsacademyusa.com/courses/one-on-one-coaching-bundle Find DJ’s Books “Roman is Bigger,” “Roman is a Bigger Brother,” “Oscar’s True Friends” on Amazon, Kindle, Barnes&Noble, and Walmart. Find Nancy’s Books https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Nancy+Boyer&i=stripbooks&crid=2Y1OYIVMHKB9&sprefix=nancy+boyer%2Cstripbooks%2C152&ref=nb_sb_noss_1 Support the show Support the show. If you like what you hear, we would appreciate your support. Every little bit helps. https://www.buzzsprout.com/1779847/support

    42 min
  2. Meltdowns to Milestones, Celebrate 200 Episodes of Imperfect Heroes

    APR 28

    Meltdowns to Milestones, Celebrate 200 Episodes of Imperfect Heroes

    Send us a text Join DJ Stutz for her landmark 200th episode of Imperfect Heroes: Insights Into Parenting as she looks back at sterling moments and topics for parents and caregivers of kids (birth to age 8). Relive a moving father-son story on emotional regulation, with tips to validate feelings and build trust. Turn challenges like thumb-sucking into bonding opportunities using teamwork strategies. Tame sibling rivalry with practical advice to foster compromise and kindness. Discover why meltdowns are DJ’s favorite with mindset shifts, learning to strengthen relationships, and teach calm-down tools. Boost friendships with tips to help kids choose kind pals. Hear listener comments and heartfelt reviews.  Explore episodes at ImperfectHeroesPodcast.com topics like potty training, adoption, learning disabilities, and more. Join the free Parent Perspectives workshop or book coaching at ImperfectHeroes.net. Got questions? Email us at DJStutz@ImperfectHeroes.net—we’ve got you! TIMESTAMPS 5:36  DJ shares how a father connected with his new son with skin to skin contact followed by years of being there for his son created a strong bond that keeps the two connected. 9:45  Looking back at a past episode, DJ shares a comment made by past guest Dr. Ted Bennion on understanding that challenges are your kids’ and parents are there to guide and support. 13:39  DJ shares strategies for helping children manage through sibling rivalry 19:55  DJ shares how to make a mental shift about managing meltdowns and how that helps to reduce their frequency and length. For more information on the Imperfect Heroes podcast, visit: https://www.imperfectheroespodcast.com/ DJ Stutz - Podcast: https://www.imperfectheroespodcast.com/ Coaching and Resources Website: https://www.imperfectheroes.net/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheImperfectHeroes Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imperfect_heroes/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOpphCRklDJiFXdS76U0LSQ Rumble: https://rumble.com/v449rko Text:  720-989-6475 DJ Stutz Calendar Link: https://bookme.name/Imperfectheroespodcast ONE ON ONE COACHING Link: https://www.littleheartsacademyusa.com/courses/one-on-one-coaching-bundle Find DJ’s Books “Roman is Bigger,” “Roman is a Bigger Brother,” and “Oscar’s True Friends” on Amazon, Kindle, Barnes&Noble, and Walmart. Support the show Support the show. If you like what you hear, we would appreciate your support. Every little bit helps. https://www.buzzsprout.com/1779847/support

    35 min
  3. Tailoring Education: School Choices for Your Child’s Needs with Shiloh Stutz

    APR 21

    Tailoring Education: School Choices for Your Child’s Needs with Shiloh Stutz

    Send us a text Follow one family’s journey as they seek the perfect educational fit for their kids. DJ chats with her son, Shiloh Stutz, a Northern California hospital administrator and dad to Roman and Niko. Shiloh shares how he and his wife, a city engineer, chose a small, values-driven Christian preschool for Roman, sparking his academic success. This led to a dual immersion school and later a private Christian school. Niko followed suit, thriving in academics and sports. Shiloh dishes on balancing parental guidance with fostering independence, offering practical tips for parents of young kids. Fans of DJ’s books Roman is Bigger and Roman is a Bigger Brother will love hearing about the actual Roman and Niko! Tune in for faith-based, family-focused advice to help your children excel. Perfect for parents navigating their kids’ educational needs! Listen now for inspiring, kid-friendly insights! Don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe to Imperfect Heroes so you never miss a new episode Time Stamps 2:41  ​​DJ Stutz and Shiloh Stutz discuss the journey of choosing the right education path for their children, starting with daycare and preschool. 9:53  Shiloh discusses how he and his wife met with the teacher and when they realized how their son’s academic and social needs were not being met. 15:34  DJ and Shiloh discuss doing the research to identify educational options in your area. 36:08  Shiloh shares the difference between being a  present parent, involved in your child’s activities and a helicopter parent. Connect with Us! DJ Stutz - DJ Stutz -Podcast: https://www.imperfectheroespodcast.com/ Website:https://www.imperfectheroes.net/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheImperfectHeroes Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imperfect_heroes/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOpphCRklDJiFXdS76U0LSQ Rumble: https://rumble.com/v449rko DJ Stutz Calendar Link: https://bookme.name/Imperfectheroespodcast ONE ON ONE COACHING Link: https://www.littleheartsacademyusa.com/courses/one-on-one-coaching-bundle Find DJ’s Book “Roman is Bigger” on Amazon, Kindle, Barnes & Noble, and Walmart. Support the show Support the show. If you like what you hear, we would appreciate your support. Every little bit helps. https://www.buzzsprout.com/1779847/support

    40 min
  4. Easing Parental Anxiety for Happier Kids with Lenora Edwards

    APR 14

    Easing Parental Anxiety for Happier Kids with Lenora Edwards

    Send us a text Hey, wonderful parents! This episode of Imperfect Heroes welcomes back our favorite guest, Lenora Edwards, ASHA Board Certified Speech Language Pathologist from Better Speech, for another engaging chat with DJ Stutz. They’re diving into a topic every parent of young kids will relate to: how our anxieties affect our little ones. This episode is brimming with insights you’ll want to hear! Lenora, a cherished recurring guest, explains how parents’ stress can shape kids’ confidence and growth. DJ shares a personal story about her mom’s fainting spells, showing how constant worry can influence children’s emotions. Together, they offer practical tips like fostering curiosity, building trust, and encouraging independent learning to help your kids grow resilient and strong. Join DJ and Lenora for warm, relatable advice to uplift your family! Plus, check out DJ’s newest children’s books, Roman is a Bigger Brother and Oscar’s True Friends, great for teaching kids about diversity and emotional regulation. Listen now for parenting gems! #ParentingTips #KidsWellbeing #ImperfectHeroes Time Stamps 2:37 Lenora Edwards and DJ Stutz discuss how adults can pick up on each other's anxieties, even without realizing it. 14:40 Lenora Edwards explains how the environment, including technology, can contribute to anxiety in children and adults. 25:18 DJ shares an experience in helping a child work through breaking a boundary in a way that helps him consider options instead of pushing buttons and making things worse. 28:28 Lenora shares how reframing a challenge can calm both parent and child. Connect with Us! DJ Stutz -Podcast: https://www.imperfectheroespodcast.com/ Website:https://www.imperfectheroes.net/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheImperfectHeroes Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imperfect_heroes/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOpphCRklDJiFXdS76U0LSQ Rumble: https://rumble.com/v449rko DJ Stutz Calendar Link: https://bookme.name/Imperfectheroespodcast ONE ON ONE COACHING Link: https://www.littleheartsacademyusa.com/courses/one-on-one-coaching-bundle Find DJ’s Book “Roman is Bigger” on Amazon, Kindle, Barnes & Noble, and Walmart. Contact Lenora Edwards Website: https://www.betterspeech.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterspeech/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourbetterspeech/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/BetterSpeechVideo LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/better-speech/mycompany/ Support the show Support the show. If you like what you hear, we would appreciate your support. Every little bit helps. https://www.buzzsprout.com/1779847/support

    37 min
  5. Little Actions, Big Impact: Guiding Kids to Understand Others with Carrie Lingenfelter

    APR 7

    Little Actions, Big Impact: Guiding Kids to Understand Others with Carrie Lingenfelter

    Send us a text In this warm and welcoming episode, host DJ Stutz sits down with Carrie Lingenfelter, a former teacher, speech therapist, and conscious parenting champion. They chat about the joy of really getting to know our kids and building those precious connections. Parents of little ones, this one’s for you—full of gentle ideas and engaging tips to help your family grow together! Carrie opens up about understanding our kids’ unique strengths and struggles, sharing the sweet idea of "empathic" children and how our own vibes affect their world. They explore finding that cozy balance between letting kids feel big emotions and guiding them toward self-care—perfect for those tricky toddler moments or preschool ups and downs. DJ offers inventive tricks like using timers and teamwork to smooth out behavior bumps, making parenting feel a little lighter. Both shine a light on empathy, kindness, and how grandparents can be such a blessing in today’s parenting journey. With Carrie’s heart for raising sensitive, gifted kiddos and DJ’s down-to-earth wisdom, this episode is a gem for parents who want to keep it real. Listen in for simple ways to nurture emotional wellness, creativity, and closeness—raising little changemakers, one loving family at a time! Time Stamps 4:06 – DJ and Carrie chat about gifted kids and the wide neurodiversity spectrum—great for parents celebrating their child’s unique shine! 11:03 – DJ shares a quick trick to help kids take responsibility and fix mistakes—perfect for raising problem-solvers! 20:48 – DJ and Carrie share why teaching kids empathy matters—essential tips for nurturing kind toddlers! 29:47 – DJ and Carrie explore avoiding overly strict or lax styles—ideal for finding your parenting groove! Connect with Us! DJ Stutz - Podcast: https://www.imperfectheroespodcast.com/ Coaching and Resources Website: https://www.imperfectheroes.net/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheImperfectHeroes Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imperfect_heroes/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOpphCRklDJiFXdS76U0LSQ Rumble: https://rumble.com/v449rko DJ Stutz Calendar Link: https://bookme.name/Imperfectheroespodcast ONE ON ONE COACHING Link: https://www.littleheartsacademyusa.com/courses/one-on-one-coaching-bundle Find DJ’s Books “Roman is Bigger,” “Roman is a Bigger Brother,” and “Oscar’s True Friends” on Amazon, Kindle, Barnes&Noble, Bookshop.org, and Walmart. Contact Carrie Lingenfelter Website: https://hearttoheartlife.com/ Email: https://hearttoheartlife.com/contact-heart-to-heart-life/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hearttoheartparentspodcast Instagram: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrie-lingenfelter-50518648/ Support the show Support the show. If you like what you hear, we would appreciate your support. Every little bit helps. https://www.buzzsprout.com/1779847/support

    42 min
  6. Chores for Little Champs: Secrets to Confident Kids

    MAR 31

    Chores for Little Champs: Secrets to Confident Kids

    Send us a text Join DJ Stutz on Imperfect Heroes as she dives into raising independent kids—kicking helicopter and lawnmower parenting to the curb! Tired of over-scheduled, over-indulged little ones who can’t solve a problem? DJ’s here for you. She dishes on how hovering tanks work ethic (business owners are spilling the beans!), and shares simple ways to get your toddlers and preschoolers rocking chores like pros. Imagine modeling hustle, setting clear rules, and letting them face consequences—no more swooping in, mamas! From age-appropriate tasks to real talk on grit, DJ’s tips are pure gold for parents of young children. Research backs her up too: early independence boosts self-esteem, amps up school success, sharpens social-emotional skills, and even slashes anxiety and meltdowns. Want kids who thrive, not just survive? Tune in for practical parenting hacks that build confidence and resilience in your little ones—because raising self-reliant kids starts today!" TIMESTAMPS [1:41]  DJ Stutz breaks down how helicopter and lawnmower parenting leave our little ones over-scheduled, over-indulged, and missing grit—must-know stuff for parents craving resilient, happy kids! [4:26] DJ spills the tea on getting toddlers and preschoolers in on household action—think tiny helpers building independence and confidence while tackling tasks with you. Parenting win! [23:20] DJ dives into how teaching young children they can get stuff done—and love it—sets them up for a fuller, happier life. Say goodbye to helplessness, hello to thriving kiddos! [26:04] DJ drops research gold—early independence boosts self-esteem, school success, and social skills while cutting anxiety. Essential listening for parents raising strong, self-reliant little ones! For more information on the Imperfect Heroes podcast, visit: https://www.imperfectheroespodcast.com/ DJ Stutz - Podcast: https://www.imperfectheroespodcast.com/ Coaching and Resources Website:https://www.imperfectheroes.net/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheImperfectHeroes Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imperfect_heroes/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOpphCRklDJiFXdS76U0LSQ Rumble: https://rumble.com/v449rko DJ Stutz Calendar Link: https://bookme.name/Imperfectheroespodcast ONE ON ONE COACHING Link: https://www.littleheartsacademyusa.com/courses/one-on-one-coaching-bundle Find DJ’s Books “Roman is Bigger,” “Roman is a Bigger Brother,” and “Oscar’s True Friends” on Amazon, Kindle, Barnes&Noble, and Walmart. Support the show Support the show. If you like what you hear, we would appreciate your support. Every little bit helps. https://www.buzzsprout.com/1779847/support

    35 min
  7. Parenting with the End in Mind: Raising Kids Who Think Ahead with Chaya Garcia

    MAR 24

    Parenting with the End in Mind: Raising Kids Who Think Ahead with Chaya Garcia

    Send us a text Tune into this awesome podcast episode where DJ Stutz chats with relationship pro Chaya Garcia about boosting your kids’ executive functioning—aka their ability to plan ahead and make smart choices. They dish on why modeling behavior is key, how to turn failures into learning wins, and why kids need to express emotions confidently. Chaya shares tips on building strong relationships (hint: actions beat words!), while DJ offers family-tested tricks for guiding kids through conflicts and picking character-driven friends. Grab your favorite beverage and listen for practical, fun advice on raising resilient, empathetic little decision-makers—perfect for parents of toddlers, preschool and early elementary kiddos! Don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe to Imperfect Heroes so you never miss an episode! Time Stamps 4:24 – DJ Stutz and Chaya Garcia break down executive functioning—how kids learn to think ahead and make thoughtful decisions. 10:00 – DJ and Chaya discuss resilience and why the biggest failure is never trying. Learn how to help kids embrace challenges. 19:21 – Encouragement matters! DJ and Chaya share how reminding kids of past wins builds confidence and perseverance. 28:20 – DJ and Chaya explore conflict resolution—teaching kids to handle disagreements while keeping friendships strong. Connect with Us! DJ Stutz - Podcast: https://www.imperfectheroespodcast.com/ Coaching and Resources Website: https://www.imperfectheroes.net/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheImperfectHeroes Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imperfect_heroes/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOpphCRklDJiFXdS76U0LSQ Rumble: https://rumble.com/v449rko DJ Stutz Calendar Link: https://bookme.name/Imperfectheroespodcast ONE ON ONE COACHING Link: https://www.littleheartsacademyusa.com/courses/one-on-one-coaching-bundle Find DJ’s Books “Roman is Bigger,” “Roman is a Bigger Brother,” and “Oscar’s True Friends” on Amazon, Kindle, Barnes&Noble, Bookshop.org, and Walmart. Contact Chaya Garcia Website: https://marriedin2025.com/ Email: chaya@chayasarah.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicloveexpert/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/epicloveexpert/ YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@EpicLoveExpert  Support the show Support the show. If you like what you hear, we would appreciate your support. Every little bit helps. https://www.buzzsprout.com/1779847/support

    44 min
  8. Building Your Village: How Volunteers Transform Autism Parenting with Jennifer Celeste Briggs

    MAR 17

    Building Your Village: How Volunteers Transform Autism Parenting with Jennifer Celeste Briggs

    Send us a text In this episode, DJ chats with Jennifer Celeste Briggs, author of Watching Sarah Rise, about her heartfelt journey raising her daughter Sarah, diagnosed with autism at four and a half. Jennifer, a Pittsburgh mom with a BA from Swarthmore College, shares how she turned challenges into triumphs using the Son-Rise Program—a loving, child-centered approach she dubbed "Sarah-Rise." Trained at the Autism Treatment Center of America, she built a volunteer network to spark Sarah’s social skills, speech, and eye contact through therapeutic play. Jennifer dives into the power of embracing your child’s interests, training volunteers like a pro, and leaning on community support. Her tips? Stay present and open-minded! Check out her book and resources on her website or at bookstores for inspiration. Perfect for parents of young kids navigating autism or other neurodiversities,, this episode is packed with hope, practical advice, and a reminder you’re not alone on this journey! Don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe to Imperfect Heroes so you never miss an episode! Time Stamps 3:36 – Jennifer shares why she trained at the Autism Treatment Center for a Son-Rise Program—hope for autism parents! 5:32 – Jennifer talks tapping community volunteers—a must for your kiddo’s village! 8:53 – Jennifer explains training volunteers to join Sarah’s play, boosting her interests—pure gold for connection! 25:53 – DJ says journal your kid’s triggers and wins—key for understanding your little one! Connect with Us! DJ Stutz - Podcast: https://www.imperfectheroespodcast.com/ Coaching and Resources Website:https://www.imperfectheroes.net/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheImperfectHeroes Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imperfect_heroes/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOpphCRklDJiFXdS76U0LSQ Rumble: https://rumble.com/v449rko DJ Stutz Calendar Link: https://bookme.name/Imperfectheroespodcast ONE ON ONE COACHING Link: https://www.littleheartsacademyusa.com/courses/one-on-one-coaching-bundle Find DJ’s Books “Roman is Bigger,” “Roman is a Bigger Brother,” and “Oscar’s True Friends” on Amazon, Kindle, Barnes&Noble, Bookshop.org, and Walmart. Contact Jennifer Celeste Briggs Website: https://www.watchingsarahrise.com/bio/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifercelestebriggsauthor/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jenniferbriggsauthor Support the show Support the show. If you like what you hear, we would appreciate your support. Every little bit helps. https://www.buzzsprout.com/1779847/support

    38 min
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Discover the joy in parenting with The Imperfect Heroes Podcast! DJ Stutz, an Early Childhood Specialist with over 20 years of teaching expertise, brings you insightful episodes to navigate the rewarding yet challenging journey of raising children. Join DJ and her guests as they share knowledge and experiences, offering valuable insights to empower you with confidence and peace. Become the imperfect hero, fostering independence, productivity, and happiness in your children's lives. Tune in for practical parenting tips and stories that resonate with your unique journey!

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