Legit Parenting
by Craig Knippenberg, LCSW, M.Div.
Craig Knippenberg, expert, and best-selling author, shares strategies for actual (imperfect) parents to build resilient kids and families with good-enough parenting so that you can have less stress and find joy in your kids and family. Discover how your child’s brain works, their social and emotional needs and learn to implement the right parenting techniques that work for you and your family, and finally ditch the parenting guilt and stress. For 35 years, Craig has been supporting parents, kids, and families as a mental health professional and raising his own resilient family. He shares his years of experience with listeners. You’ll learn how to identify a child’s strengths and build confidence and overcome challenges that today’s families experience. Craig’s approach to parenting is clear, concise, and actionable. You’ll learn how to set limits on technology without a fight, how to talk to your child so they listen, how to solve parenting differences with your partner, how to hand
Episodes
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Live from the Guiding Bright Minds Resource Fair
Send us Fan Mail We're live from the Guiding Bright Minds Resource Fair to talk about what families actually need when they’re raising neurodivergent kids and feeling stretched thin. We share how community-based support gets built, why “good enough” consistency works, and how trauma-informed care...
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Is my child well when the culture Is loud-Part 3 of the Series
Send us Fan Mail Your kid’s phone is not just a tool. It is a behavior-shaping machine built to hold attention, harvest data, and keep the scroll going long past “just a few minutes.” We take a clear-eyed look at how today’s culture collides with child and teen brain development, and why so many...
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How To Use Stories To Build Closer Families
Send us Fan Mail A 10-second post can go viral and still vanish from your memory. A well-told story can stick for decades and it can shape the way your child sees themselves. We sit down with professional storyteller and Moth host Corey Rosen to talk about how family storytelling builds…
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Things of Beauty Olympic Edition 2026
Send us Fan Mail What if the moments that make us cry at sports aren’t about the scoreboard at all, but about who we become when the clock is still running? We dive into a week of winter sports that felt like a lifetime: the stark courage of a legend risking one more run, a young skier laying…
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From Olympic Awe To Everyday Parenting Lessons
Send us Fan Mail We contrast the emotional highs of the Winter Olympics with the realities of youth sports in America and lay out a saner, joy-first path for families. From Norway’s fun-centered playbook to U.S. pressure, costs, and injuries, we share stories that restore perspective and…
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Reading The Signs: Is My Child Well? Part 2
Send us Fan Mail Ever wish there were a clearer line between typical teen chaos and true cause for concern? We dive into the messy middle with a brain-based roadmap parents can actually use, breaking down how impulse control, temperament, and empathy shape risk long before a crisis knocks on the...
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How is my child? Is my child Okay? Part 1
Send us Fan Mail Part 1 of a series where we ask, Is My Child Okay? We look at whether kids are actually okay by pairing brain development with today’s digital environment. Though progress markers offer hope we level with you about risk, influence, and what “normal” really looks like in today's...
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Best of Things of Beauty: What We Almost Miss: Three Stories of Noticing Beauty
Send us Fan Mail What if the smallest pause could change the story you tell about your life? n this episode, Craig shares three powerful moments where beauty emerged from unexpected places: spontaneous phone calls to celebrate struggling students, a tattered 9/11 flag that united the world at the...
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Things of Beauty: The Ripple of a Child's Kindness: How Riley's Gentle Ways Continue to Shake the World
Send us Fan Mail The Ripple of a Child's Kindness: How Riley's Gentle Ways Continue to Shake the World In this deeply moving episode, Craig sits down with Ziggy and Megan Gutensberger, founders of Riley's Ark, to share the profound story of their daughter Riley - a 12-year-old girl whose gentle...
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Rediscovering Childhood: Playing Pretend with Jeff and Andy Crocker
Send us Fan Mail Remember when your imagination had no limits? When a cardboard box became a spaceship and a backyard was an unexplored jungle? As we grow up, that magical part of our brain often takes a backseat to our logical, organized prefrontal cortex—but what if reconnecting with play could...
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Things of Beauty Make Me Cry. A Collection
Send us Fan Mail In a World of Noise, Beauty Still Speaks "The universe provides us lures to beauty... if we pause long enough to notice." When was the last time something moved you to tears? Not from sadness, but from experiencing the pure, unexpected beauty we are surrounded by? Raised in...
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The Birds, the Bees, and the AI Chatbots
Send us Fan Mail The modern digital world has influenced childhood in ways we could have never imagined. The days are gone when our biggest parental worry is a skinned knee or missed curfew. Today, our kids navigate a virtual world filled with sophisticated predators, AI-powered deception, and...
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My Mother's Final Wish: Love, Legacy, and Gooey Butter Cake
Send us Fan Mail Craig shares the deeply personal story of his 98-year-old mother's final days and the powerful lessons her passing taught him about the true essence of parenting legacy. Through tender moments of feeding his mother her favorite St. Louis treats and witnessing what remained in her...
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The Path to Can-Do Learning: Supporting Neurodiverse Children Through Academic Challenges
Send us Fan Mail When children struggle academically, the path forward can feel overwhelming for parents. This episode delves deep into the world of neuroexceptional students – those with learning disabilities, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and other learning differences – with education...
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Freedom or Fear: Raising Resilient Kids in an Era of Mistrust
Send us Fan Mail Trust has transformed for today's teenagers, with location sharing apps becoming a prerequisite for dating and relationship privacy increasingly sacrificed in the name of security. • Location tracking apps like Life360 and Find My iPhone are now considered the first step in teen...
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Navigating the Teacher-Parent Partnership in an Era of Educational Stress
Send us Fan Mail Teachers are experiencing unprecedented levels of stress with mental health at a 50-year low and only 42% feeling their job is worth it, yet they continue showing up for students despite declining academic achievement nationwide. • America's Education Report Card shows most 4th…
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Games That Connect: Building Relationships Through Play
Send us Fan Mail Games create powerful connections with children and teens, allowing them to open up about emotions in ways direct conversation often can't achieve. They offer a natural setting for learning crucial life skills while having fun. • Board games, card games, and active games all...
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Danish parents don't have a magic formula for happiness - they have something better. And it's not what you think!
Send us Fan Mail Danish families are consistently ranked as the happiest in the world, but is it their parenting philosophy or something else? We unpack the reality behind Danish parenting success and discover what American parents can actually learn from the Danish way, even without the safety...
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Mom's Playbook: Life Lessons That Last a Lifetime (Part 2)
Send us Fan Mail In this touching two-part series, Craig shares the impactful and profound life lessons he has learned from his 98 year old mom. Craig shares a heart felt tribute that reflects on the small yet meaningful moments that shaped his childhood and the wisdom his mother imparted on him...
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Mom's Playbook: Life Lessons That Last a Lifetime (Part 1)
Send us Fan Mail In this touching two-part series, Craig shares the impactful and profound life lessons he has learned from his 98 year old mom. Craig shares a heart felt tribute that reflects on the small yet meaningful moments that shaped his childhood and the wisdom his mother imparted on him...
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Parenting Under Stress: Balancing Expectations and Independence. The College Admission Dilemma
Send us Fan Mail When it comes to college admissions, we challenge the conventional wisdom that prestigious universities are the golden ticket to success and happiness. Reflecting on scandals like Rick Singer's deceitful manipulation of the system, we examine the intense pressure and ethical...
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Navigating the College Transition: Parenting, Independence, and Embracing Change
Send us Fan Mail Have you ever felt a pang of anxiety as your teenager prepares to transition into college life? You're not alone. This episode of Legit Parenting takes you on a heartfelt journey through the emotional rollercoaster parents experience as their children step into independence. We...
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Empowering Childhood: Fostering Independence and Resilience with Dr. Camilo Ortiz
Send us Fan Mail Discover the transformative power of independence in childhood as we sit down with Dr. Camilo Ortiz, a leading expert in clinical psychology. Dr. Ortiz shares his innovative independence therapy, which is revolutionizing the way we address child anxiety by integrating meaningful,...
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The Vital Role of Community in Neurodivergent Success
Send us Fan Mail Our special guest, Mary Judy, brings her vast experience as an advocate for neurodiverse families to the table. Mary Judy shares her compelling journey and the challenges her son faced despite his academic success. She discusses the importance of creating individualized support...
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Understanding Core Values for Stronger Family Bonds with Karleen Savage
Send us Fan Mail We're thrilled to have Karleen Savage author of The Confident Teen Blueprint, and a veteran in parenting and conflict resolution, share her wisdom on establishing core principles like unconditional love, respect, and consistency. Karleen emphasizes the importance of parents...
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Mastering Modern Parenting: Brain Science, Learning Challenges with Dr. Robin McEvoy
Send us Fan Mail What if understanding your child's brain could transform your parenting approach? Join us in this episode of Legit Parenting as seasoned child and family therapist Craig Knippenberg, LCSW, M.Div and special guest Dr. Robin McEvoy, a developmental neuropsychologist, joins us to…
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Autism, girls, and the risks we don’t see with Lila Kimel, Ph.D.
Send us Fan Mail We explore how autism shows up in girls, why masking hides risk, and how explicit teaching around consent, pacing, and online safety can prevent harm. Lila Kopelioff Kimel, Ph.D. shares clinical and lived insight on assessment, advocacy, and building real-world skills. • girls’...
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Rylie's legacy. Acts of Random Kindness. Purpose through pain
Send us Fan Mail Join us for an emotionally moving episode of Legit Parenting as we welcome Meghann and Ziggy Guentensberger, the heartfelt founders of Rylie's ARK. Meghann and Ziggy recount joyful memories of their daughter Rylie and the tragic accident that forever changed their lives. Together...
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Navigating Modern Challenges in Parenting and Education: Empathy, Social Media, and Cell Phones in the news
Send us Fan Mail Social media isn't just a pastime for teenagers—it's a battleground for social ranking and self-worth. We reflect on old-school methods of social comparison and how they have been drastically amplified online, influencing youth mental health. We explore the contentious issue of...
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Parenting Strategies and Hope for Children Impacted by Trauma
Send us Fan Mail When you're at the end of your rope with parenting challenges that seem insurmountable, finding a beacon of hope is crucial. This episode of Legit Parenting welcomes the remarkable Gina He-man, who lights the way for parents grappling with the complexities of raising children...
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Navigating the Challenges of Parenting Teens in the Age of Experimentation and Cannabis
Send us Fan Mail In a world where the reality-altering temptation of substances beckons, we're peeling back the layers on teen experimentation and its cultural influences. We tackle the hard questions – like how to manage when you discover your teen may be vaping or using marijuana – with a focus...
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Charting the Course Through Parental Burnout
Send us Fan Mail Navigating modern parenting, Dr. Andrea Mata, Ph.D joins our crew, sharing her knowledge from the front lines of clinical child psychology and tips from her new book The No. 2 Parenting Book: Practical Tips for the Pooped Out Parent. Dr. Mata guides us through strategies to ward...
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Fourth Season: Parenting in the News. Reflections on Responsibility and Resilience in Parenting
Send us Fan Mail As your ever-curious host Craig Knippenberg, begins season 4 with stories, news and discussions that matter to you as a modern parent. We're going to unpack the potential game-changer that is New York's proposed legislation on safeguarding our kids' digital playground, and why…
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Unraveling the Impact of Parental Substance Use on Family Dynamics with Steve Carleton LCSW, CAS | Founder @ Growth Effect
Send us Fan Mail Navigating the choppy waters of parental substance use, we're joined by Steve Carleton LCSW, CAS | Founder @ Growth Effect. Steve is a seasoned addiction specialist, who helps us unpack the effects this has on the family dynamic. As we shed light on the stark realities and…
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Raising Resilient Kids: Wisdom on Nurturing Strength and Overcoming Adversity with Dr. Robert Brooks
Send us Fan Mail Discover the foundations of strength in our children as Dr. Robert Brooks, a distinguished psychologist and author, joins us to share his invaluable wisdom on resilience. This episode is an enlightening journey into the key elements that contribute to raising individuals who can...
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A Guide to Crucial Conversations
Send us Fan Mail We share heartfelt stories and practical advice for those tricky family discussions, grounding our guidance in real-life experiences.
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Navigating the Realities of Modern Parenting: From Social Media Struggles to Embracing 'Good Enough' Practices
Send us Fan Mail Discover the unvarnished realities of parenting as , Craig Knippenberg slices through the gloss of social media. We tackle the evolving landscape of teen habits, from vaping's decline to the ramifications of a cell phone ban in a high school that's revolutionizing student...
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Craig Knippenberg reads from his new book:Shame-Free Parenting . Building Resiliency in Ties of Hardship, Guns, and Social Media
Send us Fan Mail Feeling the weight of parenting pressures? You're not alone. Join us as child and family therapist Craig Knippenberg, LCSW, M.Div and co-host Sydney Moreau unpack the life-changing approach of Shame-Free Parenting. With a blend of wisdom from my nearly forty years in practice and...
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Navigating the Storm: Adolescent Mental Health in the Age of Social Media
Send us Fan Mail When the golden hues of fall sweep through Colorado, my thoughts often drift to the cozy warmth of a hoodie – a simple pleasure overshadowed by the profound struggles faced by today's adolescents. Sydney joins Craig Knippenberg, LCSW, M.Div in a heart-to-heart on the mental…
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Oh Barbie : Unraveling Gender Roles: An Analysis of Society and Media Influence
Send us Fan Mail A riveting discussion as we scrutinize and dissect traditional gender roles and the impact of media on our perceptions of beauty, using popular culture and film as our roadmap. We are also thrilled to share insights from my new book, Shame-Free Parenting – a manual that's...
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A Closer Look at Mental Health and Parenting in The News
Send us Fan Mail Today we discuss significant initiatives like Safe to Tell, which has seen a rise in calls, indicating a growing willingness among teens to reach for help. We also delve into the labyrinth of gun laws, assessing their effectiveness in curbing violence. Our conversation takes a...
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Understanding and Addressing OCD and Eating Disorders in Children and Teens with Dr. Elysia Sotiriou
Send us Fan Mail Welcome to another thought-provoking episode of Legit Parenting! We promise an enlightening journey as we navigate the often misunderstood territory of OCD in children and teens, alongside our distinguished guest, Dr. Elysia Sotiriou. Renowned for her expertise in dealing with…
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Activism as an Antidote for Climate Change Anxiety in Youth
Send us Fan Mail Is your child battling with climate change anxiety? Ponder upon this as we set out to explore this pressing issue with our highly esteemed guest, Aleeza Lampert, MA, LPC Drawing on her extensive expertise, Aleeza uncovers the deep-rooted impacts of climate anxiety on today’s…
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Parenting in the News: Gratitude, Digital Dangers, and Teen Violence
Send us Fan Mail Do you feel the pressure of parenting in this digital age? We dive headfirst into the trenches of parenting, discussing how gratitude practices can foster resilience and mental wellbeing in families. The transformative power of gratitude is immense; it can alleviate depression,...
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Unraveling the Intricate Connection of Trauma and ADHD in Youths
Send us Fan Mail Ever wondered how trauma could look like ADHD symptoms? Craig Knippenberg had the pleasure of inviting Dr. Ana Dodson to shed light on this fascinating yet disturbing connection. Anna's research has opened new realms of understanding between trauma and ADHD, with her survey…
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In the News: Understanding the Impact of Social Media on Youth Mental Health and Gun Violence
Send us Fan Mail Does the surge in teen anxiety and depression alarm you as a parent? We're betting it does. It’s a pressing concern, and one we're addressing head-on in this episode. We're looking at some important news revealing how social media, particularly TikTok, is contributing to…
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How to talk to your teen with special guest, author Elizabeth Bennet
Send us Fan Mail Join Craig and special guest, Elizabeth Bennet, author of Courageous Conversations as they discuss key concepts for connection with teens. About Elizabeth Bennett: As an award winning principal with over 35 years of teaching, administration and coaching experience, I offer a…
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Emotional Care through the grief cycle for parents, caregivers of children with disabilities, what to expect and how to nurture self-confidence and fortitude
Send us Fan Mail Join Craig Knippenberg, and special guest Henrietta Pazos, PsyD as they discuss the parental grief cycle with children who have disabilities. Henrietta Pazos, PsyD, specializes in testing for ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Developmental Disabilities, and Gifted Identification. She also...
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How parents can support the siblings of Neuro-exceptional children
Send us Fan Mail Join Craig Knippenberg, LCSW, M.Div, and special guest, Stephanie Scheer, ACES Director of Research and Innovation and Marry Ann Alinas, VP Clinical and Community Outreach at ACES. About ACES: Dedicated to improving the lives of those impacted by autism or other developmental...
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Craig Knippenberg, LCSW, M.Div with Special Guest Roxanne Bradley
Send us Fan Mail Join Craig Knippenberg with special guest, Roxanne Bradley an educational advocate as she helps listeners navigate the complex world of the educational system. About Roxanne Bradley, a certified special education advocate, Roxanne helps parents navigate the educational system to...
About this show
Craig Knippenberg, expert, and best-selling author, shares strategies for actual (imperfect) parents to build resilient kids and families with good-enough parenting so that you can have less stress and find joy in your kids and family. Discover how your child’s brain works, their social and emotional needs and learn to implement the right parenting techniques that work for you and your family, and finally ditch the parenting guilt and stress. For 35 years, Craig has been supporting parents, kids, and families as a mental health professional and raising his own resilient family. He shares his years of experience with listeners. You’ll learn how to identify a child’s strengths and build confidence and overcome challenges that today’s families experience. Craig’s approach to parenting is clear, concise, and actionable. You’ll learn how to set limits on technology without a fight, how to talk to your child so they listen, how to solve parenting differences with your partner, how to hand
Hosted by
Craig Knippenberg, LCSW, M.Div.