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Podcast Episode 354: Your House is Not a Democracy: Finding the Sweet Spot Between Collaboration and Boundaries (Part 2)

Do you ever feel like the second you try to enforce a rule, you’re suddenly the villain in your own home? You say no, and the negotiation begins. You try to hold your ground, but the guilt creeps in—or the whining wears you down. If you’re exhausted from constantly repeating yourself, wondering why your kids push back every time, you’re not alone. In part two of our series on collaborative parenting, we’re diving into the real-life challenge of how to set boundaries with kids—without turning into a dictator or a doormat.

Here’s the thing: boundaries are essential, but enforcing them doesn’t mean you have to be the bad guy. In this episode, we’re sharing practical strategies that actually work—like using “when/then” statements instead of constant reminders (spoiler: your kids will finally listen), how to handle your own emotional triggers when things escalate, and why humor might just be your secret parenting weapon. Plus, we walk through a step-by-step method to repair the relationship when you’ve yelled or overreacted (because yep, we’ve all been there).

If you’ve ever questioned whether your boundaries are too harsh—or too soft—or struggled with what to say in the moment, this episode will give you the tools and confidence you need. You’ll learn how to set clear expectations without guilt, shift responsibilities to your kids (yes, really!), and model emotional intelligence through meaningful apologies.

So before the next power struggle begins, give this episode a listen. You’ll walk away knowing exactly how to set boundaries with kids that stick—without losing your cool, your connection, or your mind.

In this episode of the No Guilt Mom podcast you’ll learn:

  • How to use “when/then” statements to reduce nagging and increase cooperation.
  • Why “in our family” phrases can backfire—and what to say instead.
  • The difference between a boundary and a power struggle (and how to tell the difference).
  • A step-by-step framework for apologizing to your kids in a way that teaches emotional intelligence.
  • Why humor is an underrated superpower for diffusing conflict with strong-willed kids.

Resources We Shared In This Episode

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Read the transcripts HERE

Support the podcast by visiting our ah-maz-ing sponsors HERE!

#parentingpodcast #parentingtips #selfcare #mentalload #kids #teenager #toddler #preschooler #baby  #boundaries, #parenting, #authoritativeparenting, #parentingtechniques  

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Brie Tucker

COO/ Podcast Producer at No Guilt Mom
Brie Tucker has over 20 years of experience coaching parents with a background in early childhood and special needs. She holds a B.S. in Psychology from the University of Central Missouri and is certified in Positive Discipline as well as a Happiest Baby Educator.

She’s a divorced mom to two teenagers.

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