Conflict after divorce is one of the hardest challenges to navigate—especially when you’re co-parenting with a difficult ex. I know firsthand how overwhelming it can feel to avoid conflict on the outside, only to create even more of it inside yourself. That’s why in this episode of Co-Parenting with Confidence, I’m breaking down what conflict really is, the hidden patterns that keep us stuck, and the third option we often miss when we feel trapped between speaking up or staying silent.

I share insights from Jason Gattis’ book Getting to Zero along with my own journey of learning to self-regulate, set boundaries, and choose authentic responses instead of falling into people-pleasing or avoidance. By understanding your “relational blueprint” and recognizing your coping style, you can begin to transform conflict into an opportunity for growth—for yourself, and for your kids.

Takeaways:

• Why conflict is normal—and not something to fear.
• Four common coping styles and how they show up.
• The “third choice” that stops self-betrayal.
• Practical ways to decide which conflicts are worth engaging in.

If you’re ready to stop feeling powerless and start showing up with confidence, reach out—I’d love to support you. https://calendly.com/coachwithmikki/co-parent-breakthrough-call

Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with anyone who might need a fresh perspective on co-parenting!

For more information go to my website here: https://mikkigardner.com/podcast/

© 2021 - 2025 Mikki Gardner Coaching

Today we continue our look back at some of the most popular episodes of Co-Parenting with Confidence.

In this encore episode, I share one of my favorite truths: your feelings don’t come from your ex, your circumstances, or the outside world—they come from your thoughts. When I discovered this, it completely shifted how I showed up as a mom and co-parent. Understanding that I’m not at the mercy of anyone else has been both liberating and empowering, and I want the same freedom for you.

I’ll walk you through how our thoughts create our feelings, how those feelings drive our actions, and how awareness is the key to taking back control. You’ll also learn a simple but powerful tool—four questions from Byron Katie—that can help you reframe the painful thoughts that keep you stuck.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, frustrated, or hopeless in your co-parenting journey, this episode will give you the mindset shifts you need to reclaim your peace and confidence.

Takeaways:

• Your feelings come from your thoughts, not external circumstances.
• You always have the power to choose how you think and feel.
• Awareness creates freedom and choice.
• A simple 4-question tool can help shift painful thought patterns.

If you’re ready to stop feeling powerless and start showing up with confidence, reach out—I’d love to support you. https://calendly.com/coachwithmikki/co-parent-breakthrough-call

Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with anyone who might need a fresh perspective on co-parenting!

For more information go to my website here: https://mikkigardner.com/podcast/

© 2021 - 2025 Mikki Gardner Coaching

In this encore of episode #2, Mikki explores the emotional challenges faced by co-parents and emphasizes the importance of understanding the origins of our feelings. She discusses how our thoughts shape our emotions and actions, empowering listeners to take control of their emotional responses. Mikki introduces tools such as Byron Katie's four questions to help individuals reframe their thoughts and create positive change in their co-parenting relationships.

What You’ll Learn:

• Understanding that feelings stem from our thoughts, not external circumstances.
• We have the power to change our thoughts and, consequently, our feelings.
• Being aware of our thought patterns is crucial for emotional well-being.
• We cannot change others, but we can change our reactions to them.
• The importance of questioning our thoughts to gain clarity and control.
• Byron Katie's four questions can help reframe painful thoughts.
• Living on autopilot leads to feeling like a victim of circumstances.
• Choosing intentional thoughts can lead to positive actions and outcomes.
• Self-awareness is the first step towards empowerment in co-parenting.
• Old thinking patterns will not yield new results; change is necessary for growth.

If this resonates ... you’re not alone. And you don’t have to figure it out on your own. If you’re ready to build a foundation that can’t be shaken — reach out. Let’s talk. https://calendly.com/coachwithmikki/co-parent-breakthrough-call

Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with anyone who might need a fresh perspective on co-parenting!

For more information go to my website here: https://mikkigardner.com/podcast/

© 2021 - 2025 Mikki Gardner Coaching

Today we start our look back at some of the most popular episodes of Co-Parenting with Confidence.

In this encore of episode #1, Mikki introduces her journey as a life coach and co-parent, sharing her personal experiences and insights on navigating the challenges of divorce and co-parenting. She emphasizes the importance of mindset, self-awareness, and emotional regulation in becoming a confident co-parent. The episode outlines key pillars of co-parenting, including the power of belief, recognizing choices, and being present with the co-parent in front of you.

What You’ll Learn:

• Co-parenting requires confidence and intentionality.
• Divorced families can be whole and complete.
• Our beliefs shape our feelings and actions.
• We have the power to choose how we respond.
• Good co-parenting involves seeing the current reality, not past expectations.
• Self-regulation is key to effective parenting.
• We can be a stable influence for our children.
• Creating space allows for better decision-making.
• Emotional awareness is crucial in co-parenting.
• This podcast aims to provide actionable tools for co-parents.

If this resonates ... you’re not alone. And you don’t have to figure it out on your own. If you’re ready to build a foundation that can’t be shaken — reach out. Let’s talk. https://calendly.com/coachwithmikki/co-parent-breakthrough-call

Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with anyone who might need a fresh perspective on co-parenting!

For more information go to my website here: https://mikkigardner.com/podcast/

© 2021 - 2025 Mikki Gardner Coaching

Just a quick message to let you know that I'm taking a short summer break. My son and I are embarking on a new journey and I need to step back from the podcast temporarily.

BUT over the next few weeks, we'll be releasing encores of my most popular episodes. Be sure to tune in for episodes you may have missed OR for a refresher on the challenges of co-parenting.

Email me: [email protected]

DM me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikkigardner/

Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with anyone who might need a fresh perspective on co-parenting!

For more information go to my website here: https://mikkigardner.com/podcast/

© 2021 - 2025 Mikki Gardner Coaching

If stress has left you overwhelmed, disconnected, and unsure of your next step — this episode is for you.

We unpack why so many women feel stuck in survival mode and how real, lasting change doesn’t come from controlling others or chasing the next quick fix — it comes from coming home to yourself.

You’ll learn how your nervous system holds the key to building true inner capacity, helping you rewire your reality, and how breath, stillness, and emotional processing are potent tools for reclaiming peace and power.

This is an invitation to stop outsourcing your energy, anchor into your knowing, and finally make space for what you deeply want.

In this episode:

• What stress really is (and why it’s not your fault)
• How to stop wasting energy trying to change other people
• Why nervous system regulation is the foundation for clarity and confidence
• How breath and presence help dissolve anxiety and open access to your inner wisdom
• The power of curiosity and allowing space for your emotions

If this resonates ... you’re not alone. And you don’t have to figure it out on your own. If you’re ready to build a foundation that can’t be shaken — reach out. Let’s talk. https://calendly.com/coachwithmikki/co-parent-breakthrough-call

Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with anyone who might need a fresh perspective on co-parenting!

For more information go to my website here: https://mikkigardner.com/podcast/

© 2021 - 2025 Mikki Gardner Coaching

This episode is for the woman who is doing it all — the one who looks like she's thriving on the outside but feels like she's drowning on the inside. You tell yourself you don’t have time for therapy, coaching, movement, or rest. You’ve become so used to tending to everyone else’s needs that you’ve forgotten what it feels like to choose yourself. But here’s the truth: life won’t slow down until you do. 

In this episode, we look at the turning point — the decision to stop arguing for your limitations and start reparenting yourself with the love, boundaries, and truth you’ve always needed. This is the moment you stop waiting and start choosing something better.

If you are sick of your own excuses and want someone to walk you through another option, let’s talk. Grab a spot on my calendar so we can discuss what is happening for you and create a roadmap to liberation. https://calendly.com/coachwithmikki/co-parent-breakthrough-call

Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with anyone who might need a fresh perspective on co-parenting!

For more information go to my website here: https://mikkigardner.com/podcast/

© 2021 - 2025 Mikki Gardner Coaching

After divorce, we’re often so focused on survival — holding everything together for our kids, managing co-parenting, and keeping up appearances — that we forget we’re allowed to change. In this episode, I share a personal story about the worst haircut of my life — how it became a symbol of my lowest point, and why I avoided cutting my hair for 10 years. What started as a simple act of self-care became a wound I carried far longer than I realized. Until now.

This is a conversation about shedding outdated identities, releasing the fear of becoming someone new, and learning to choose yourself again. Whether you're newly divorced or years into this journey, this episode will remind you: healing gives you permission to evolve.

I am always here to help you get clarity on the next step in your life, whether that is making a big relationship change, shifting your parenting, or determining what support you need. Use this link to book a Breakthrough Call with me to create your roadmap to your next steps. https://calendly.com/coachwithmikki/co-parent-breakthrough-call

Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with anyone who might need a fresh perspective on co-parenting!

For more information go to my website here: https://mikkigardner.com/podcast/

© 2021 - 2025 Mikki Gardner Coaching

Infidelity can leave deep wounds — but it doesn’t have to define your future or your parenting. In this episode, we explore what it really takes to move forward after betrayal, not just for yourself, but for the well-being of your children.

We’ll talk about why slowing down is the first courageous step — giving yourself space to feel, process, and begin the inner healing work. You’ll learn your greatest tool for reclaiming peace, breaking reactive patterns, and building a more grounded co-parenting dynamic.

Because healing isn’t about pretending the past didn’t happen; it’s about making sure the past doesn’t dictate your future. 

I am always here to help you get clarity on the next step in your life, whether that is making a big relationship change, shifting your parenting, or determining what support you need. Use this link to book a Breakthrough Call with me to create your roadmap to your next steps.

Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with anyone who might need a fresh perspective on co-parenting!

For more information go to my website here: https://mikkigardner.com/podcast/

© 2021 - 2025 Mikki Gardner Coaching

In this episode, we explore how tuning into your inner wisdom and core values can be your greatest guide in parenting and co-parenting — especially during times of conflict or stress. When emotions run high, it’s easy to react rather than respond. But by reconnecting with your deeper sense of self and what truly matters, you can parent from a place of clarity, confidence, and calm.

We’ll discuss practical ways to cultivate self-trust, regulate your nervous system, and make decisions that align with your values, even in challenging situations. Whether you’re co-parenting after divorce or navigating everyday parenting struggles, this episode will help you stay grounded and lead with intention.

Key takeaways to help you stay grounded and intentional:

• Your Inner Wisdom is Your Greatest Guide – The answers are already within you. Pause and ask, What kind of parent do I want to be in this moment?
• Regulation Before Reaction – A dysregulated nervous system leads to reactive parenting. Breathe, ground yourself, and respond from clarity instead of stress.
• Values Over Ego – Parenting challenges can trigger fear or the need to "win." Shift your focus to love, patience, and wisdom rather than control.
• Detach from Drama, Focus on What You Can Control – You can’t change your co-parent’s behavior, but you can control your own energy and responses.
• Emotional Independence is Key – Your child thrives when you model emotional stability. Their well-being is shaped by your regulation, not external circumstances.
• Decision-Making from Integrity – When making parenting choices, ask: * Does this align with my core values? * Will this serve my child’s emotional well-being in the long run?
• Repair Over Perfection – You won’t always get it right, and that’s okay. Model repair by taking responsibility, apologizing if needed, and reconnecting with love.

Parenting is not about getting it perfect — it’s about showing up with intention, emotional steadiness, and trust in yourself.

Which of these resonates with you the most?

I am always here to help you get clarity on the next step in your life, whether that is making a big relationship change, shifting your parenting, or determining what support you need. Use this link to book a Breakthrough Call with me to create your roadmap to your next steps. https://calendly.com/coachwithmikki/co-parent-breakthrough-call

Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with anyone who might need a fresh perspective on co-parenting!

For more information go to my website here: https://mikkigardner.com/podcast/

© 2021 - 2025 Mikki Gardner Coaching