Ever walk away from a moment with your kids wondering, “Was I too hard on them?” or “Should I have been more gentle?”
You’re not alone.
In today’s episode, Kristen gets honest about one of the hardest parts of motherhood — finding the balance between being calm and compassionate and setting firm, loving boundaries.
Because somewhere along the way, “discipline” started to sound like “punishment.” But real discipline? It’s teaching — not controlling. It’s coaching our kids toward safety, respect, and emotional intelligence.
Kristen shares how she’s learned to be both gentle and firm — and how small shifts in language, tone, and mindset can transform the way we respond to our kids’ big emotions. You’ll walk away with practical examples, powerful reframes, and the permission to release the guilt that says you have to get it perfect.
Because the goal isn’t perfection — it’s presence.
And when your child knows they’re both loved and led, that’s where trust grows.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- Why being gentle and firm aren’t opposites — they’re a partnership
- How to teach boundaries without shaming your child
- Simple language swaps that validate feelings and reinforce respect
- Why emotional pain deserves the same compassion as physical pain
- What to do when you lose your cool — and how to repair with confidence
Sound Bites:
“Discipline isn’t punishment — it’s teaching.”
“Your child’s feelings aren’t the problem. Their behavior is just how those feelings show up.”
“Gentle says, ‘I see you.’ Firm says, ‘I’ve got you.’ Together, they say, ‘You’re safe with me.’”
“You’re not screwing up your kids when you lose your patience — you’re modeling what it looks like to repair.”
If this episode made you feel seen or heard, leave a quick review! Reviews help more moms find the show and reminds them they’re not alone in this journey.
Let's Connect:
Instagram: @kristenpomper
Kristen Pomper is a corporate sales leader, performance coach, wife, and mom of two passionate about helping working moms thrive without burnout. After experiencing burnout and losing herself in motherhood, Kristen became obsessed with creating a life where you don’t have to choose between family, career, and self-care. She helps ambitious women prioritize themselves, set boundaries, and build a life that truly feels good — all while staying present and joyful in motherhood. Kristen’s mission is simple: you can have it all, without guilt.
Related Topics: gentle parenting, firm parenting, emotional regulation for kids, boundaries with love, discipline without punishment, motherhood mindset, working mom podcast, parenting with confidence, calm parenting, emotional safety, connection before correction