The Parenting Shift That Changed Everything

In this episode, Leslie speaks with parent coach, writer, and speaker Margot Magowan about how Nonviolent Communication (NVC) transformed her relationship with her children—and especially helped her family through a painful mental health crisis involving her oldest daughter. After years of therapies, hospitalizations, medications, and conflict, Margot says the breakthrough came when she and her husband learned how to truly listen with presence, curiosity, and compassion. She explains how NVC helped her shift away from trying to control or “fix” behavior and instead understand the feelings and needs beneath it. The conversation explores practical parenting challenges that many families face—from school struggles and emotional outbursts to rules, conflict, and communication—and how changing the way we respond to children can create more trust, safety, and emotional connection. Margot also discusses the difference between “power-over” and “power-with” parenting, why so many parents feel overwhelmed today, and how emotional regulation begins with the adults in the room. It’s an honest and compassionate conversation about parenting, connection, and learning how to listen in a whole new way. Margot's website is Listen2ConnectCoach.com and her handles on Instagram are @Listen2ConnectCoach and @reelgirlreviews.