Calm Connection Parenting | Neurodivergent, Meltdowns, Emotional Regulation, DMDD, Tantrums, SPD, Defiance, Angry Behaviors

Jami Kirkbride LPC, Parenting Coach for Emotional Dysregulation and Executive Functioning

Ranked in the top 3% of podcasts globally! Tired of walking on eggshells… dreading the next meltdown? Exhausted by big emotions. defiance, and disobediance? Wondering why “traditional" parenting advice backfires with your strong-willed child?   I’m glad you’re here. This podcast helps you understand what’s behind your child's behavior, so you can respond with calm, stop second-guessing yourself, and build real connection with your neurodivergent or uniquely wired child.    Hi, I’m Jami… a mom of seven, professional counselor turned parenting coach, speaker, and author. And yes, even with training, I found myself stuck in the same cycle so many parents live in: meltdown… reaction… guilt… repeat. I was doing all the things that were “supposed” to work… but they didn’t.    Everything changed when I stopped treating behavior like the problem and started looking underneath it. When I learned to understand my child’s unique wiring (personality, sensory processing, executive functioning, and emotional needs), I finally had a roadmap. I didn’t need more tips… I needed clarity and a plan. And that clarity changed things.    If you’re ready to ditch the overwhelm and stop parenting in survival mode, you’re in the right place. We’ll talk meltdowns, emotional dysregulation, defiance, ADHD, DMDD, anxiety, and more… along with practical steps that help your family move from chaos to calm… one episode at a time.    So grab your coffee, find your quiet spot (if you have one), and let’s jump in.    Start here: Take the FREE Emotional Forecast Quiz at CalmConnectionParenting.org and find your next best step.

  1. Why Your Child Overreacts and Takes Everything Personally (Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria and Emotional Dysregulation in Kids) with Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge

    6H AGO

    Why Your Child Overreacts and Takes Everything Personally (Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria and Emotional Dysregulation in Kids) with Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge

    Why your child takes everything personally. Learn how emotional dysregulation and rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD) impact kids with ADHD, DMDD, or mood disorders—and what you can do to help.  Why does your child take everything so personally, overreact to small things, or melt down over what seems like minor situations? If you’re parenting a child with emotional dysregulation, ADHD, or intense emotional reactions, this episode may unlock a powerful missing piece. In this episode of the Calm Connection Parenting Podcast, we’re diving into Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD)—a lesser-known but incredibly important factor behind big emotional reactions in kids. You’ll hear from Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, a leading expert in emotional and behavioral dysregulation, as she explains why some children experience intense reactions to perceived criticism or rejection—and what parents can do to support them. When you understand what’s really happening beneath the behavior, everything begins to shift—from frustration and confusion… to clarity, calm, and connection. ✨ In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why emotional dysregulation and meltdowns aren’t bad behavior—but signals of nervous system overload • What Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) is and why it’s so common in kids with ADHD • How to recognize when your child is reacting to perceived rejection vs. actual events • A simple but powerful shift in how you respond that can reduce conflict and build connection This episode is part of our Summit Spotlight series, leading up to: ✨ Calm in the Chaos: Real Tools for Raising Emotionally Intense or Neurodivergent Children 🎉 Registration is now OPEN If you’re ready to better understand your child’s big emotions and learn strategies that actually work… 👉 Save your spot here! Calm Connection Parenting Summit 2026 If this episode resonated with you, come join us inside the Calm Connection Parenting Facebook group where we’re continuing the conversation and supporting each other along the way. Send a text and share your thoughts! Take Your Next Step:  Emotional Forecast QuizVisit CalmConnectionParenting.org to become an insider and receive weekly news. Find information about the coaching program (and scholarships), free parenting resources, and how we can connect.*Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Please consult a qualified professional for individual support. Happy and Joyful Children by Free Music • Happy Children Background Music / Joyful U... Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/free-... Music promoted by Audio Library • Happy and Joyful Children – Free Music (No... –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/  Just Believe

    22 min
  2. Why Your Child’s Meltdowns Aren’t Bad Behavior- Emotional Dysregulation in Kids Explained with Kirk Martin

    6D AGO

    Why Your Child’s Meltdowns Aren’t Bad Behavior- Emotional Dysregulation in Kids Explained with Kirk Martin

    Why your child’s meltdowns aren’t bad behavior. For kids with emotional dysregulation, DMDD, or ADHD, these moments are opportunities—not problems.  For many children, especially those with emotional dysregulation, ADHD, or strong-willed personalities, meltdowns aren’t bad behavior… they’re a signal. In this episode of the Calm Connection Parenting Podcast, I’m joined by Kirk Martin, founder of Celebrate Calm, to reframe how we see meltdowns and show how these challenging moments can become opportunities for connection, teaching, and growth. When we shift how we respond, we can begin to reduce power struggles and help our kids learn how to handle frustration and big emotions. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why meltdowns and emotional dysregulation are not bad behavior • How to respond in the moment without escalating the situation • Simple ways to help your child feel safe, seen, and in control • How to turn everyday struggles into opportunities for connection and growth This episode is part of our Summit Spotlight series, leading up to the upcoming parenting summit... ✨ Calm in the Chaos: Real Tools for Raising Emotionally Intense or Neurodivergent Children Join us inside the Calm Connection Parenting Facebook group to connect with other parents, get support, and be the first to hear when registration opens. If you’re raising a child with big emotions, frequent meltdowns, or challenging behaviors, this episode will give you a powerful new perspective—and practical tools you can start using right away. Send a text and share your thoughts! Take Your Next Step:  Emotional Forecast QuizVisit CalmConnectionParenting.org to become an insider and receive weekly news. Find information about the coaching program (and scholarships), free parenting resources, and how we can connect.*Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Please consult a qualified professional for individual support. Happy and Joyful Children by Free Music • Happy Children Background Music / Joyful U... Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/free-... Music promoted by Audio Library • Happy and Joyful Children – Free Music (No... –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/  Just Believe

    31 min
  3. 79. Why Your Child Struggles with Tasks, Motivation, and Follow-Through --Executive Function Explained with Leslie Josel

    MAR 24

    79. Why Your Child Struggles with Tasks, Motivation, and Follow-Through --Executive Function Explained with Leslie Josel

    Why does your child struggle with tasks, focus, and follow-through? For kids with ADHD, DMDD, SPD, PDA, and executive function challenges, it’s not laziness—it’s how their brain works. In this episode of the Calm Connection Parenting Podcast, I’m joined by Leslie Josel, award-winning ADHD student and parenting coach, to break down what executive function really is and why it impacts your child’s ability to manage time, complete tasks, regulate emotions, and stay motivated. When we understand what’s happening beneath the surface, we can move from daily frustration to practical, supportive strategies that actually work. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why executive function challenges make tasks, transitions, and follow-through difficult • How ADHD and executive dysfunction impact motivation, time management, and emotional regulation • Why what looks like “laziness” is often overwhelm and difficulty sustaining effort • Simple ways to support your child with more cooperation and less conflict This episode is part of our Summit Spotlight series, featuring expert insights from the Calm Connection Parenting Summit as we lead up to an exciting upcoming event designed for parents raising emotionally intense and uniquely wired kids. If you’re parenting a child who struggles with focus, organization, motivation, or big emotions, this conversation will give you clarity, tools, and hope. Become an insider and get information on the upcoming summit when you visit CalmConnectionParenting.org. Join the Calm Connection Parenting Facebook Group to hear the details! Send a text and share your thoughts! Take Your Next Step:  Emotional Forecast QuizVisit CalmConnectionParenting.org to become an insider and receive weekly news. Find information about the coaching program (and scholarships), free parenting resources, and how we can connect.*Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Please consult a qualified professional for individual support. Happy and Joyful Children by Free Music • Happy Children Background Music / Joyful U... Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/free-... Music promoted by Audio Library • Happy and Joyful Children – Free Music (No... –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/  Just Believe

    36 min
  4. 78. Sensory Processing and Meltdowns in Kids – Understanding the Out-of-Sync Child with Carol Kranowitz

    MAR 18

    78. Sensory Processing and Meltdowns in Kids – Understanding the Out-of-Sync Child with Carol Kranowitz

    Why does your child have such big meltdowns and emotional reactions? For kids with sensory processing challenges, ADHD, DMDD, or emotional dysregulation, behavior may be a signal—not defiance. In this episode of the Calm Connection Parenting Podcast, I’m joined by Carol Stock Kranowitz, best-selling author of The Out-of-Sync Child, to explore how sensory processing differences impact your child’s behavior, emotions, and daily life. When we begin to understand what’s happening beneath the surface, we can shift from frustration to clarity… and respond in ways that create more calm and connection. In this episode, you’ll learn: • How sensory processing issues can trigger meltdowns and emotional dysregulation • Why behavior is often a form of communication, not defiance • What it means to view your child through “sensory spectacles” • Simple ways to support your child during overwhelming moments This episode is part of our Summit Spotlight series, featuring expert insights from the Calm Connection Parenting Summit as we walk the road toward something exciting coming soon for parents raising emotionally intense and uniquely wired kids. If you’re parenting a child with big emotions, sensory challenges, or frequent meltdowns, this conversation will give you a new lens… and real hope. Be sure to join the Calm Connection Parenting Facebook Group to hear about the upcoming event! You won't want to miss this!   Send a text and share your thoughts! Take Your Next Step:  Emotional Forecast QuizVisit CalmConnectionParenting.org to become an insider and receive weekly news. Find information about the coaching program (and scholarships), free parenting resources, and how we can connect.*Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Please consult a qualified professional for individual support. Happy and Joyful Children by Free Music • Happy Children Background Music / Joyful U... Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/free-... Music promoted by Audio Library • Happy and Joyful Children – Free Music (No... –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/  Just Believe

    41 min
  5. 77. Why Some Kids Have Big Emotions and Challenging Behaviors: A Fresh Look at Emotional Dysregulation with Penny Williams

    MAR 11

    77. Why Some Kids Have Big Emotions and Challenging Behaviors: A Fresh Look at Emotional Dysregulation with Penny Williams

    Why do some children experience emotional dysregulation, explosive meltdowns, and challenging behaviors that seem bigger than the situation? In this episode of the Calm Connection Parenting Podcast, I’m joined by parenting expert Penny Williams, host of the Beautifully Complex Podcast with more than 5 million downloads, to talk about why some kids have bigger emotions and behaviors than others. Parents raising children with ADHD, DMDD, sensory processing challenges, or other neurodivergent differences often find that traditional discipline strategies don’t work the way they expect. What looks like defiance may actually be a child struggling with emotional regulation and nervous system overwhelm. In this episode we discuss:  • Why some kids experience emotional dysregulation and meltdowns  • Ways we may need to adjust our expectations of our child   • Why traditional discipline strategies can escalate emotionally intense kids  • How understanding your child’s wiring can help you respond with calm and connection Over the next few weeks, I’ll also be sharing insights from experts who help parents navigate meltdowns, emotional dysregulation, executive function challenges, and nervous system regulation. And something exciting is coming soon for parents raising emotionally intense and uniquely wired children… so make sure you’re part of the Calm Connection Parenting Facebook group so you don’t miss what’s ahead. Send a text and share your thoughts! Take Your Next Step:  Emotional Forecast QuizVisit CalmConnectionParenting.org to become an insider and receive weekly news. Find information about the coaching program (and scholarships), free parenting resources, and how we can connect.*Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Please consult a qualified professional for individual support. Happy and Joyful Children by Free Music • Happy Children Background Music / Joyful U... Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/free-... Music promoted by Audio Library • Happy and Joyful Children – Free Music (No... –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/  Just Believe

    35 min
  6. 76. How Do I Choose the Right Support or Parent Coaching for ADHD and Emotional Dysregulation? What You Need to Know

    MAR 5

    76. How Do I Choose the Right Support or Parent Coaching for ADHD and Emotional Dysregulation? What You Need to Know

    If you’re parenting a child with ADHD, DMDD, emotional dysregulation, or intense meltdowns and wondering whether parent coaching or parenting support could help your family, this episode will help you discern the right next step.  Parenting a neurodivergent or emotionally intense child often requires more than generic parenting advice. But not all parent education, coaching programs, or support groups are designed for executive functioning challenges, emotional regulation delays, or meltdown cycles. In this episode, you’ll learn: • The signs your family may need coaching instead of just more information  • Common mistakes parents make when choosing parenting support  • The difference between counseling and parent coaching  • What to look for in a program that understands ADHD, DMDD, and emotional dysregulation If you feel stuck in cycles of shame, second-guessing, or ineffective strategies, this conversation will help you move toward clarity, confidence, and calm connection. Because the right support doesn’t add pressure — it brings direction. Send a text and share your thoughts! Take Your Next Step:  Emotional Forecast QuizVisit CalmConnectionParenting.org to become an insider and receive weekly news. Find information about the coaching program (and scholarships), free parenting resources, and how we can connect.*Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Please consult a qualified professional for individual support. Happy and Joyful Children by Free Music • Happy Children Background Music / Joyful U... Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/free-... Music promoted by Audio Library • Happy and Joyful Children – Free Music (No... –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/  Just Believe

    24 min
  7. 75. How Do I Help My Emotionally Intense Child Build Emotional Regulation Skills? Three Easy Ways to Start Today

    MAR 3

    75. How Do I Help My Emotionally Intense Child Build Emotional Regulation Skills? Three Easy Ways to Start Today

    If you’re parenting a child with ADHD, DMDD, emotional dysregulation, or intense meltdowns and wondering how to actually build emotional regulation skills… this episode will give you hope and a practical starting point. Emotional regulation is not just maturity. It’s a skill. And skills can be taught, practiced, and strengthened over time — even in neurodivergent kids who struggle with executive functioning and impulse control. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why correcting behavior during meltdowns does not build regulation  • How ADHD, DMDD, and executive function delays impact emotional maturity  • Three brain-based ways to teach regulation skills during calm moments  • How parent co-regulation and predictability reduce emotional threat If your child reacts younger than their age, struggles with big emotions, or seems stuck in meltdown cycles, this conversation will help you shift from correction to skill-building — and move toward calmer, more confident parenting. Send a text and share your thoughts! Take Your Next Step:  Emotional Forecast QuizVisit CalmConnectionParenting.org to become an insider and receive weekly news. Find information about the coaching program (and scholarships), free parenting resources, and how we can connect.*Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Please consult a qualified professional for individual support. Happy and Joyful Children by Free Music • Happy Children Background Music / Joyful U... Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/free-... Music promoted by Audio Library • Happy and Joyful Children – Free Music (No... –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/  Just Believe

    16 min
  8. 74. When You’ve Tried Everything for Your Emotionally Dysregulated Child and It Still Isn’t Enough- Maggie Diemer

    FEB 26

    74. When You’ve Tried Everything for Your Emotionally Dysregulated Child and It Still Isn’t Enough- Maggie Diemer

    Have you ever felt like you’ve tried every therapy, every strategy, and every parenting tool for your child with emotional dysregulation… and it still isn’t enough? Parenting a child with emotional dysregulation, ADHD, or DMDD can feel exhausting when treatment options fall through, waiting lists are long, and support systems don’t understand your child’s challenging behaviors. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why emotional dysregulation can create isolation and parenting stress  • How repeated disappointments affect parental confidence  • When to push, pivot, or pause during intense meltdowns  • Why your steady presence matters more than any single intervention In this powerful conversation, Maggie Diemer shares her journey raising a child with DMDD and navigating closed doors, residential treatment decisions, and the emotional toll it takes on parents. If you’re searching for help with emotional dysregulation, intense behaviors, or wondering what to do when therapy isn’t working, this episode will bring clarity, validation, and hope. Send a text and share your thoughts! Take Your Next Step:  Emotional Forecast QuizVisit CalmConnectionParenting.org to become an insider and receive weekly news. Find information about the coaching program (and scholarships), free parenting resources, and how we can connect.*Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Please consult a qualified professional for individual support. Happy and Joyful Children by Free Music • Happy Children Background Music / Joyful U... Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Free Download / Stream: https://www.audiolibrary.com.co/free-... Music promoted by Audio Library • Happy and Joyful Children – Free Music (No... –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/  Just Believe

    31 min

Trailer

4.9
out of 5
52 Ratings

About

Ranked in the top 3% of podcasts globally! Tired of walking on eggshells… dreading the next meltdown? Exhausted by big emotions. defiance, and disobediance? Wondering why “traditional" parenting advice backfires with your strong-willed child?   I’m glad you’re here. This podcast helps you understand what’s behind your child's behavior, so you can respond with calm, stop second-guessing yourself, and build real connection with your neurodivergent or uniquely wired child.    Hi, I’m Jami… a mom of seven, professional counselor turned parenting coach, speaker, and author. And yes, even with training, I found myself stuck in the same cycle so many parents live in: meltdown… reaction… guilt… repeat. I was doing all the things that were “supposed” to work… but they didn’t.    Everything changed when I stopped treating behavior like the problem and started looking underneath it. When I learned to understand my child’s unique wiring (personality, sensory processing, executive functioning, and emotional needs), I finally had a roadmap. I didn’t need more tips… I needed clarity and a plan. And that clarity changed things.    If you’re ready to ditch the overwhelm and stop parenting in survival mode, you’re in the right place. We’ll talk meltdowns, emotional dysregulation, defiance, ADHD, DMDD, anxiety, and more… along with practical steps that help your family move from chaos to calm… one episode at a time.    So grab your coffee, find your quiet spot (if you have one), and let’s jump in.    Start here: Take the FREE Emotional Forecast Quiz at CalmConnectionParenting.org and find your next best step.

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