Parenting with Impact

40 Episodes
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By: Elaine Taylor-Klaus and Diane Dempster

The Parenting with Impact Podcast with Elaine Taylor-Klaus and Diane Dempster, co-creators of ImpactParents.com, inspires parents and professionals guiding complex kids, teens and young adults all over the world to become capable, independent adults. ImpactParents.com is an online community, award-winning blog, and direct service provider for parents and professionals. Elaine and Diane are certified professional coaches with their own lived experience raising children with complex challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, gender identity issues, and more. Drawing from both personal and professional experience, they teach and inspire parents and professionals to raise and empower complex kids...

EP213: Life After 18: Unique Paths for Neurodivergent Young Adults
Last Wednesday at 10:00 AM

Not every young adult follows a path from point A to point B after high school, and that might be the key to growth. In this episode, we will explore how parents can support complex kids during one of life’s most uncertain transitions. From building trust to stepping back at the right time, this conversation challenges traditional ideas of success and opens the door to something more meaningful. 


What to expect in this episode:

Why traditional post-high school paths don’t work for everyoneThe power of strengths-based reflection and active listeningReasons failure is a...


EP212: Beyond the Label: How to Help Your Child Flourish Using Brain Science
04/30/2025

What if the way we view our kids could literally shape their brains? In this eye-opening conversation, Sue Langley blends neuroscience, psychology, and personal stories to explore how strengths-based parenting can shift everything. Whether you're feeling stuck or simply curious, this episode invites you to rethink what’s possible for your child and for yourself.


 What to expect in this episode:

Why every brain is “neurodiverse” and why that mattersHow the brain rewires itself through thoughts, emotions, and habitsThe dangers of over-identifying with labels and how to move beyond themHow to use strengths-based parenti...


EP211: From Chaos to Calm: Building Sleep Routines for Sensory-Sensitive Kids
04/23/2025

You’ve tried the white noise, the cozy bedtime stories, even the perfectly timed evening routine. And still, sleep feels like a nightly mystery. If you relate to this, then this episode is for you! Dial in as we explore the subtle but powerful shifts that can make a real difference for complex kids who struggle to fall and stay asleep with sleep specialist Hilliary Giglio. Don’t miss this conversation, which just might offer the clarity and hope you’ve been looking for.

 What to expect in this episode:

Why “bedtime routine” means something d...


EP210: Why Smart Kids Struggle in School and What Executive Function Has to Do With It
04/16/2025

Uncover the critical intersection of executive function and educational success. This enlightening discussion reveals why some of the smartest kids face unexpected challenges in school and how understanding these hidden barriers can transform their academic journey. Tune in for unique insights and expert strategies to support your child's learning process.

What to expect in this episode:

Understanding the impact of executive function challenges on school successThe importance of emotional regulation and frustration tolerance in academic environmentsStrategies for identifying and addressing specific executive function issuesThe role of parental involvement in managing and accommodating...


EP209: Peaceful Parenting Secrets: How to Build Trust and Raise Confident Kids Without Control
04/09/2025

What happens when you stop trying to control your kids and start truly collaborating with them? In this episode, we sit down with Sarah Rosensweet to explore fresh perspectives on raising complex kids. Sarah shares stories, strategies, and insights that can challenge how you think about parenting. Tune in and see how changing your approach can transform not just your relationship with your children, but the way you see yourself as a parent.

What to expect in this episode:

The essential difference between controlling your child and collaborating with themHow to handle...


EP208: Unlocking Teen Potential: Resilience, Innovation & Hope in a Complex World
04/02/2025

Elaine sits down with leadership expert Ed Gerety to discuss the intersection of leadership and parenting teens. Drawing on decades of experience working with youth, Ed shares actionable strategies for fostering open communication, focusing on effort over outcomes, and helping teens develop independence. If you’re looking for practical tools and fresh perspectives on raising resilient, capable teens, don’t miss this conversation.

What to expect in this episode:

How to build trust and deeper connections with your teens Why it's crucial to acknowledge your teen's hard work even when they don't achie...


EP207: Rebuilding Trust with Teens: Cleaning the Slate Conversations
03/26/2025

Rebuilding trust within a family is no small feat, especially when past hurts linger. In this episode, Elaine and Diane tackle the complexities of mending relationships and navigating emotional barriers. They share practical insights and a transformative strategy -- cleaning-the-slate conversations -- to guide families in clearing old wounds and creating space for growth and connection.


What to expect in this episode:

How to acknowledge and address lingering resentments that hinder communicationThe “clean the slate” approach to resetting relationships and moving forwardStrategies for creating alignment and building trust with children of all...


EP206: Neurodiversity is not a Character Flaw: How to be a Brain Friend
03/19/2025

What happens when a seasoned corporate leader finds herself rethinking everything she thought she knew about neurodiversity? Join us as Kristen Pressner shares how unexpected insights reshaped her perspective at home and at work, changing the way she approaches challenges, relationships, and what it really means to thrive.

What to expect in this episode:

How neurodiversity manifests differently in each personThe concept of being a “brain friend” and how it fosters understanding and productivityPractical tips for supporting neurodivergent family members and colleaguesThe benefits of seeing the strengths in diverse brain functionsWays to integrate more incl...


EP205: Parenting Beyond Media Stereotypes & Perfection with Bridgett Brown
03/12/2025

Discover how embracing imperfection and redefining beauty can transform self-image and strengthen family bonds. Bridgett Brown, founder of the Beyond Beauty Project, shares her personal journey and offers fresh insights into representation, self-trust, and self-acceptance. Together, we’ll explore how we can empower parents and children to build confidence, resilience, and a healthier relationship with their bodies and minds! This is an inspiring conversation. Tune in now and find out how you can support yourself and your kids on this journey.



What to expect in this episode:

How so...


EP205: Parenting Beyond Media Stereotypes & Perfection with Bridgett Brown
03/12/2025

Discover how embracing imperfection and redefining beauty can transform self-image and strengthen family bonds. Bridgett Brown, founder of the Beyond Beauty Project, shares her personal journey and offers fresh insights into representation, self-trust, and self-acceptance. Together, we’ll explore how we can empower parents and children to build confidence, resilience, and a healthier relationship with their bodies and minds! This is an inspiring conversation. Tune in now and find out how you can support yourself and your kids on this journey.



What to expect in this episode:

How so...


EP204: Practical Nutrition Tips For Neurodiverse Kids: Expert Advice with Kelly Dorfman
03/05/2025

Could food be the missing piece in your child's development? Learn the answer in this episode with nutrition expert Kelly Dorfman, M.S., who explores the hidden connection between diet and neurodiversity. Listen until the end for practical strategies to support your neurodiverse child through targeted nutrition!


What to expect in this episode:

The relationship between brain chemistry and nutrition for neurodiverse kidsHow to identify and address potential dietary irritantsThe role of essential nutrients in supporting cognitive function and learningPractical ways to reduce the “toxic load” on the brain and enhance lear...


EP203: The Power of Good Enough: Progress Over Perfection
02/26/2025

What if perfectionism is actually holding you back? In this episode, Elaine and Diane discuss how to shift your focus from impossible standards to steady improvement. Learn why striving for “perfect” often backfires and how you can find more freedom and growth by choosing progress instead.


Here's what to expect in this episode:

The different forms of perfectionismImportance of a growth mindset vs. a fixed mindset in parentingStrategies for helping kids overcome the fear of failureHow parents’ own perfectionist tendencies can influence their children’s behaviorBenefits of celebrating progress and small victorie...


EP202: ADHD Can Help You Succeed in Unexpected Ways with Ari Tuckman, Psy.D.
02/19/2025

If you're living with ADHD or love someone who is, you know it's more than just forgetting keys. This episode dives deep into the emotional realities of ADHD with Ari Tuckman, Psy.D., exploring self-acceptance, family dynamics, and the power of community. Get ready for a conversation that finally "gets it." Listen now!


Here's what to expect in this episode:

A deep dive into the emotional landscape of ADHDPractical strategies for managing ADHD in daily lifeThe significance of community support and connection for individuals and families affected by ADHDGuidance for individuals...


EP201: Meet Fawn: A Tool for Nurturing Emotional Growth in ND Kids
02/12/2025

Parenting in today’s world can feel more complex than ever, especially for those raising neurodivergent kids. In this episode, we engage in an inspiring conversation with Peter Fitzpatrick, the co-founder of Fawn Friends, to explore innovative ways parents can cultivate emotional trust, safety, and intelligence in their children. Tune into this episode to discover fresh perspectives on enhancing your child’s emotional and social development.



Here is what to expect in this episode

How technology can create safe spaces for children to express themselvesThe role of emotional trust and how...


EP200: Reduce Family Stress by Taking Aim
02/05/2025

We're celebrating 200 episodes of the Parenting with Impact podcast with a deep dive into what it really takes to create lasting change. In this special episode, we explore the first step of our proven Impact Model: Take Aim. Learn how to cut through the noise and pinpoint the one area you want to focus on to achieve actionable change. Tune in now to reduce stress, increase family harmony, and start seeing real progress!


Here's what to expect in this episode:

Why “taking aim” is essential for managing complex parenting challengesHow to dist...


EP199: Relatable Social Skills for Kids with ADHD with Ryan Wexelblatt
01/29/2025

Raising kids with ADHD can be a journey filled with unique challenges and incredible growth opportunities. In this episode, we dive into a dynamic and insightful conversation with Ryan Wexelblatt, widely known as the ADHD Dude. We’ll uncover powerful strategies to help parents guide their children with ADHD toward greater independence and resilience. From cultivating a growth mindset to tackling social and executive function hurdles, this episode equips parents with practical tools to empower their kids to flourish.


Don’t miss this episode with Ryan Wexelblatt and discover effective ways to support your chil...


EP198: ADHD & Sleep pt 2: Getting Kids In & Out of Bed
01/22/2025

Bedtime battles for younger kids, sleep schedules for older kids, and morning chaos for everyone are some challenging transitions for parents and kids alike! In this episode of Parenting with Impact, Elaine Taylor-Klaus and Diane Dempster return to tackle sleep challenges in part two of their discussion. They explore how parents can apply the coach approach to foster collaboration, problem-solving, and resilience during these tricky times. From addressing executive function challenges to experimenting with creative wake-up solutions, this episode is packed with practical insights to help families transition smoothly in (and out) of sleep routines.


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EP197: School Advocacy: What Parents Need to Know with Alyson Young
01/15/2025

Navigating the school system can be overwhelming for parents of children with learning differences. In this episode, Elaine Taylor-Klaus sits down with Alyson Young who shares key information about what parents need to understand to advocate for kids with learning challenges. Tune in to learn how to unlock your child's potential and navigate school support systems and IEPs like a pro!

Here is what to expect on this week’s show:

A clear breakdown of remediation, accommodation, and modificationWhy children with learning differences often slip through the cracksHow to see a diagnosis as...


EP196: Why Sleep Is SO Hard for Neurospicy People (& what to DO about it)
01/08/2025

Are you someone with neurodiversity who’s struggling with sleep? Join us as we dive into the unique challenges of sleep for neurodiverse individuals and explore why it’s often a struggle for families. From uncovering the deeper reasons behind sleep difficulties to sharing actionable tips for building healthier habits, this episode is packed with insights. Tune in to discover how to transform your nights and wake up ready to take on the day!



Here is what to expect on this week’s show:

Why sleep is often a challenge for families with n...


Episode 195: Highlight Reel: Impactful Moments & Guidance from 2024
#195
01/01/2025

Have you ever thought about that word: Parenting?Parenting is actually about us, not about our kids. Sure, part of the job of parenting is 'child-rearing,' or 'raising kids,' or whatever you want to call it. With one of my kids, I used to say that it is "my privilege to supervise her while she raises herself." But really -- parenting is not about them. It's about WHO we're BEING while we are doing the work of loving them and guiding them. Our journey is to be with them on their journey -- and that can get complicated...


Episode 194: Inspiring Stories: Celebrating Parent Successes
#194
12/25/2024

Listen to this Parenting With Impact episode with Elaine and Diane as they highlight their Impact Parent success stories. In this special episode of Parenting with Impact, you will hear clips from inspiring success stories from our very own Impact Parents.  These clips and stories are the best from this year.  You can find link to the full episodes below.  Related Links:Success! Curiosity & the Coach-Approach Transformed the Tone of Her Home:  https://youtu.be/CcHgigVXwFkSuccess! A Mother’s Journey From Shame to Acceptance:  https://youtu.be/nXuBh5n8DEg?si=V9xAbko0eE8G-UTESuccess! “Dad’s Fun, But I Can Talk to M...


Episode 193: A Psychiatrist's Perspective on ADHD & Autism
#193
12/18/2024

Dr. Brandi Bolling is a triple-board-certified psychiatrist and pediatrician specializing in ADHD and autism spectrum disorders. With nearly a decade of experience and approximately 20,000 patients seen, she empowers mothers and educators to support children with ADHD through her concierge practice, speaking engagements, and annual ADHD summit. Dr. Brandi earned a neuroscience degree from Vanderbilt University, an MD from Meharry Medical College, and completed her triple board residency at Indiana University School of Medicine. Passionate about mental health awareness, she engages audiences via media, panels, keynotes, and her weekly Facebook livestream, *Focus on It Friday*. Listen to this Parenting With Impact e...


Episode 192: Navigating Big Emotions with ADHD (Ours & Theirs!)
#192
12/11/2024

One of the trickiest aspects of parenting with ADHD is that, very often, the best parenting strategies -- the ones that help our kids the most -- require calm, well-regulated parents. And that’s not always easy to accomplish when parents have their own big emotions. In this conversation, we’ll identify at least 2 of the 10 main differences in an ADHD brain that create more intense negative emotions (in kids and adults), and get guidance on 2 essential components to manage those challenges. We’ll talk about why ADHD brains feel their feelings so intensely, and how we can manage our own em...


Episode 191: From Undiagnosed ADHD to Dope Black Dad
#191
12/04/2024

To say that this conversation is inspirational and heartfelt, thoughtful and emotional, and fundamentally captures all that this summit intends to convey to our listeners -- well, that’s an understatement. This conversation with Marvyn Harrison offers a fresh perspective on what it means to be an adult diagnosed with ADHD, what it means to be a black man diagnosed with and treated for ADHD, what it means to be a father with ADHD, a partner, an entrepreneur, a thought-leader. You get the picture. This conversation is a meta conversation about ADHD. And while it will appeal to everyone, it’s li...


Episode 190: Social Growth & Emotional Intelligence in Children (Part 2)
#190
11/27/2024

Listen to this Parenting With Impact episode with Elaine and Diane as they discuss emotional intelligence and social dynamics.Here is what to expect on this week’s show:Elaine and Diane explain understanding one's own emotions and being empathetic towards others are key components of emotional intelligence.Building a supportive environment within the family involves prioritizing relationships and self-care, Elaine and Diane note.Elaine and Diane acknowledge that social skills develop over time and require patience. By meeting children where they are and guiding them towards healthier interactions, parents can empower them to navigate social dynamics effectively.  Related Links:What...


Ep 189: Eliminating Shame to Be 'Unapologetically ADHD'
#189
11/20/2024

Since 2010, Nikki Kinzer and Pete Wright have been the co-hosts of the award-winning podcast, Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast, speaking to adults with ADHD all over the globe. Over 29 seasons—and more than 600 episodes—Nikki and Pete continue to offer support and strategies for adults living with ADHD. And now they decided to write their first book, Unapologetically ADHD. Listen to this Parenting With Impact episode with Nikki Kinzer and Pete Wright about becoming ‘Unapologetically ADHD’.Here is what to expect on this week’s show:Nikki and Pete advocate for fostering a safe and supportive environment by engaging in curiosity-d...


Ep 188: Executive Function through the Lens of Social Thinking
#188
11/13/2024

What does it mean to break down information in order to build up social competencies? And how does that relate to people with compelling social anxiety? In this discussion with the founder of Social Thinking, Michelle Garcia Winner, we explore the relationship between "being social" and social cognition (ie. social thinking). We touch on four areas of executive function that can foster our ability to learn how to take action on social dynamics that we want to do and are important to us. Get a better understanding of social dynamics and how to help your kids navigate them. Michelle Garcia W...


Ep 187: The Power of Emotional Intelligence in Parenting
#187
11/06/2024

Parenting With ImpListen to this Parenting With Impact episode with Elaine and Diane as they discuss Emotional Intelligence. Here is what to expect on this week’s show:Elaine and Diane explain children learn by example, so showing them how to express emotions in a healthy and constructive way can have a lasting impact.Elaine and Diane suggest helping your children develop healthy coping mechanisms for dealing with difficult emotions, such as deep breathing exercises.Elaine highlights that children on the spectrum may encounter challenges in interpreting social cues; stressing the need for custom strategies to help developing these skills. Rela...


Ep 186: Parenting & Hope: Helping Kids Navigate an Uncertain Future
#187
10/30/2024

Dr. Andreas Krafft holds a doctorate in Management Sciences from the University of St. Gallen, specializing in Organizational Psychology, Culture, and Development. With academic expertise in Social, Work, and Health Psychology, as well as Positive Psychology from the University of Zßrich, he serves as an associate researcher and lecturer at St. Gallen and teaches at universities in Zßrich, Lisbon, and Berlin. He is co-president of swissfuture, a board member of SWIPPA and DACH-PP, and leads the International Research Network of the Hope-Barometer, with multiple publications on hope. Listen to this Parenting With Impact episode with Dr. Andreas Krafft abo...


Ep 185: The 3A's: A Framework for Parenting Complex Kids
#185
10/23/2024

Listen to this Parenting With Impact episode with Elaine and Diane as they discuss the three A’s: Awareness, Acknowledgment, and Action. Here is what to expect on this week’s show:Elaine and Diane emphasize the importance of approaching challenges with an open mind and a willingness to experiment."Commit to calm before you take action;" By cultivating a sense of calm and mindfulness, parents can make more deliberate and effective decisions in response to their children's behaviors.Elaine and Diane highlight the value of involving children in the decision-making process and seeking their feedback. Related Links:Welcome to Parent...


Ep 184: Why Your Child May Struggle with Following Directions (hint: PDA?)
#184
10/16/2024

In the world of childhood ADHD, you may have heard of Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD), and you might even have some opinions about it, too. It often travels with untreated ADHD. But as the medical community begins to understand the overlap between ADHD and Autism, we want to invite you to learn more about a presentation of Autism called PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance). To be honest, there’s some controversy about this diagnosis, because it exists in the UK and Australia, but not officially in the US. So, let’s focus instead on the reality of what’s going on when a...


Ep 183: Complex Kids are Gifted (& Other Secrets about Their Brains)
#183
10/09/2024

Dr. Robert Melillo is a leading expert in developmental neurological conditions such as ADHD, autism, OCD, tics, dyslexia, anxiety, and depression in both children and adults. With extensive knowledge of brain function, he has perfected a noninvasive, multi-modal method to significantly improve and correct many neurological disorders. His expertise in functional neuroanatomy and neurophysiology is unparalleled, backed by 30 years as a clinician, professor, brain researcher, and bestselling author. His book Disconnected Kids, soon to release its 3rd edition, is a cornerstone in its genre, translated into 16 languages. Co-founder of Brain Balance Achievement Centers and developer of the Melillo MethodÂŽ, he a...


Ep 182: Using Novelty to Hack Your Child's ADHD
#182
10/02/2024

Whether you’re talking about ADHD, Autism, or 2e, developing neurodivergent brains in kids require adults to understand what it takes to get activated. The ADHD brain, for example, is understimulated. It doesn’t respond to rewards the same way as neurotypical brains. And it has a complicated relationship with motivation. So how can you help kids with ADHD (and other kinds of neurodiversity) to get essential stuff done? One key motivational tool is novelty. Join us to understand better why ADHD brains thrive on novelty, how novelty and motivation are tied together, and how you as a parent or a pr...


Ep 181: Why Focus on Parents? Complex Kids Need Our Guidance
#182
09/25/2024

Parent focus in parenting is an increasingly important topic in today's complex, globalized society. Elaine and Diane bring unique perspectives to this discussion, rooted in their experiences and beliefs. Elaine emphasizes the crucial role of self-care for parents, likening it to the necessity of putting on one’s oxygen mask first. She believes that addressing parents' own emotional struggles and needs is essential for them to effectively support their children, arguing that traditional methods often overlook this aspect. Diane, on the other hand, focuses on empowering parents to take control of their thoughts and actions without self-blame. She highlights the si...


Ep 180: Helping Kids Manage Grief, Loss & Disappointment
#180
09/18/2024

Lynne Hughes lost both her parents by the age of 12. She recognized the lack of resources available to her as a grieving child, and into adult life realized child bereavement resources were still nonexistent. So, she took her love for summer camp and founded Comfort Zone Camp, the first-ever national 501(c)3 bereavement camp for grieving children and families. Since its inception in 1998, CZC has helped over 24,000 grieving children.  Listen to this Parenting With Impact episode with Lynne Hughes about managing grief.  Here is what to expect on this week’s show:Lynne highlights the importance of preparing children to handle common...


Ep 179: Procrastination: Getting Started AND Getting Finished!
#179
09/11/2024

You’ve got to understand procrastination in order to overcome it. So in this conversation, we'll explore why kids tend to stall on tasks, from unrealistic goals to unclear plans. And we’ll also look at how a child’s procrastination often leads parents to react in ways that may not actually help the situation. If you want to minimize procrastination, join us for a conversation that explores how to leverage your kids’ strengths and prime their brain for action. Uncover the "why" behind goals, ignite motivation and follow-through, and walk away with practical strategies to tackle procrastination common in so many...


Ep. 178: Parents: Are You Making Your Kids Your Job?
#178
09/04/2024

Parenting is a balancing act of love, care, and self-preservation. Elaine and Diane dive deep into the challenges and rewards of finding that sweet spot between raising your kids and nurturing your own identity. How do you maintain this delicate balance in your own life?Listen to this Parenting With Impact episode with Elaine and Diane as they discuss finding your balance.Here is what to expect on this week’s show:Elaine emphasized the significance of defining individual measures of success as a parent instead of adhering to societal standards.Diane highlighted the necessity of intentional self-care practices beyond th...


Ep 177: No Time for Judgment: Talking to Teens About Pornography
#177
08/28/2024

Listen to this Parenting With Impact episode with Monika Roots about talking to your teen about pornography.  How to Talk to Your Complex Kids [and Other Important Relationships]Strained communication can create a hot mess of misunderstanding and conflict -- whether it's with your kids or any significant relationship in your life. In this FREE guide, you'll discover your role in communication dynamics and 10 simple but effective ways to help you build more trust and calm in your communication with your complex kids -- and any relationship.  https://impactparents.pages.ontraport.net/communication-tools?utm_campaign=Podcast&utm_source=episode&utm_medi...


Ep 176: Adult Material Online: Risks & Prevention for Children & Pre-Teens
#176
08/21/2024

Listen to this Parenting With Impact episode with John Paul Simon about risks and prevention for children watching adult material online. How to Talk to Your Complex Kids [and Other Important Relationships] Strained communication can create a hot mess of misunderstanding and conflict -- whether it's with your kids or any significant relationship in your life. In this FREE guide, you'll discover your role in communication dynamics and 10 simple but effective ways to help you build more trust and calm in your communication with your complex kids -- and any relationship. https://impactparents.pages.ontraport.net/communication-tools?utm_campaign=Podcast&utm...


Ep 175: Research Results: Porn Exposure in Pre-Teens & Teens
08/14/2024

Listen to this Parenting With Impact episode with Dr. Supreet Mann about potential psychological and emotional impacts of exposure to pornographic material on children and teens.  How to Talk to Your Complex Kids [and Other Important Relationships]Strained communication can create a hot mess of misunderstanding and conflict -- whether it's with your kids or any significant relationship in your life. In this FREE guide, you'll discover your role in communication dynamics and 10 simple but effective ways to help you build more trust and calm in your communication with your complex kids -- and any relationship. https://impactparents.pages.ontraport.net...