Gentle Parenting: Spineless or Stronger Than You Think?

from Why, Dad? · host Paul Wandrey, Andrew Stolpestad

🧠 Topics Covered:What gentle parenting actually meansThe difference between permissive and respectfulWhy “being the adult” doesn’t mean being the bossHandling triggers without shameHow we model emotional regulationWhere we’ve gotten it wrong—and what we’ve learnedWhy connection gives your discipline more power🎯 This episode is for:Dads trying to be intentional but overwhelmedParents unsure about the “soft” stuffAnyone who’s yelled then regretted itFolks wondering if respectful parenting is too nice

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Jul 1, 2025

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What this episode covers

In this episode of Why, Dad?, Paul and Andrew unpack one of the most misunderstood parenting ideas out there: Gentle Parenting. They break down what it is, what it isn’t, and why so many dads (especially those who grew up with stricter models) find themselves confused by it. This is not a conversation about letting your kids walk all over you. It’s about holding boundaries and connection at the same time. With real-life moments, honest disagreements, and practical reflections, this episode challenges the idea that “respectful” means “permissive.” Whether you’re deep in toddler tantrums or just trying not to lose it after work, there’s something here for you.