If you’ve ever felt the tension between wanting to do things “right” as a parent, and just wanting to stay close to your kids- this one’s for you. In this Helping of Happiness podcast episode, I’m joined by Chris and Jesse Koerner from How’d You Do It podcast for a thoughtful, real-life conversation about parenting with intention.

We talk about learning to hold our plans loosely (especially when kids aren’t making the choices we’d like them to), understanding what truly motivates our kids as individuals, and creating meaningful connection through things like travel and everyday moments. We also touch on the challenges of raising kids in a digital world and why open, ongoing communication matters so much. Let’s get into it!

Listen below or in your favorite podcast app!

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Show Notes:

I’m sitting down with Chris and Jesse Koerner from the “How’d You Do It?” podcast, and we’re talking about what it really looks like to parent with intention- without holding so tightly to rules and expectations that we lose connection along the way.

We get into the real stuff: how to stay flexible when life (and kids) don’t follow the plan, how to figure out what actually motivates each of your kids (because what works for one might totally flop for another), and why family travel has been such a meaningful way for them to build connection.

We also talk honestly about raising kids in a digital world, learning from our mistakes (because there will be plenty), and why open, ongoing communication matters more than getting everything “right.”

It’s a thoughtful, encouraging conversation that will remind you: you don’t have to parent perfectly to raise kids who feel deeply loved and secure.

Links mentioned in the episode:

For $50 OFF Troomi Wireless cell phone, use code: HAPPY
find Chris & Jessie’s Podcast: “How’d You Do It” in your favorite podcast app: apple & Spotify

VidAngel - 30 day free trial with code: HELPING

Takeaways

You can parent with intention and leave room for flexibility
Many parents regret being too strict with their children
What motivates one child might not work for another- and that’s okay!
Mistakes are part of the process (for us and for our kids!)
Family travel can create connection in really meaningful ways
Giving kids a voice builds trust and buy in over time
As kids grow, respecting their independence becomes more important (this can be a tough one!)
Parenting isn’t one size fits all (even within the same family)
Love, safety, and connection matter more than getting everything “right”
There are no guarantees in parenting- just a lot of learning along the way