• 13 | 3 Emotional Regulation Secrets Every Mom Needs for Parenting Strong-Willed and Neurodivergent Kids Part 3
    Oct 16 2025

    Parenting Beyond Meltdowns is ranked in the Top 3% of podcasts globally!

    If you have a child strong-willed or neurodivergent child with ADHD, Autism, ODD, PDA you are in the right place! Mama, have you ever felt like you’re carrying emotional weight that never seems to go away? Like no matter how much you pray or think positive thoughts, it still sits heavy in your chest? In this episode, we’ll talk about how to process your emotions all the way through, so they stop living rent-free in your body—and you can finally breathe again.

    In This Episode

    Over the last few episodes, we’ve talked about becoming aware of what you’re feeling and allowing emotions without judgment. Today, we take the next step—learning how to process those emotions so they stop living rent-free in your body and start making space for peace, healing, and deeper connection with your child.

    You’ll learn:

    • Why emotions are simply energy in motion—and how to let them pass through.

    • What it practically looks like to sit with an emotion instead of resisting it.

    • How trapped emotions can keep us feeling heavy and stagnant.

    • Practical ways to process emotions through movement, writing, and connection.

    • How releasing your emotions brings more peace to your home and your heart.

    Faith Anchor: God Created Us with Emotions

    The Bible shows again and again that feelings aren’t something to hide or be ashamed of—they are part of how God designed us to connect with Him and others.

    Verses Showing It’s Okay to Have Feelings & Emotions

    • John 11:35 – “Jesus wept.” → Even Jesus, the Son of God, expressed deep sorrow and grief.

    • Psalm 42:11 (NIV) – “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.” → David honestly shared his sadness while still turning toward hope.

    • Ecclesiastes 3:4 (NIV) – “A time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance.” → The Word affirms that all emotions—joy and sorrow alike—have their place.

    • Mark 14:33–34 (NIV) – “He took Peter, James and John along with him, and he began to be deeply distressed and troubled. ‘My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death,’ he said to them. ‘Stay here and keep watch.’” → Jesus openly expressed anguish in the Garden of Gethsemane.

    • Psalm 34:18 (NIV) – “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” → The Father draws near to us in our most painful emotions.

    • Romans 12:15 (NIV) – “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” → Emotions are part of our shared human experience, and the Father calls us to honor them together.

    When we process our emotions with the Father instead of pushing them away, He transforms what once felt heavy into something holy. The same emotions that once buried us can become the soil where healing grows.

    Recap

    Emotions aren’t meant to stay trapped inside. They’re like clouds passing over the sun or waves rolling through the ocean—they move when we let them. When we process emotions instead of carrying them like a backpack full of rocks, we create space for more peace, connection, and joy.

    Challenge of the Week

    When you notice an emotion this week:

    1. Pause and describe it—what does it feel like in your body?

    2. If it had a color, shape, or texture, what would it be?

    3. Choose one physical action to help release it: a walk, a cry, dancing, or a hug.

    4. Invite the Father into that moment—ask Him what He’s teaching you and thank Him for helping you release it.

    Join the Anchored Mama Insiders List

    Want more encouragement like this? Join my Insiders List for faith-filled reminders, emotional regulation tips, and practical tools to help you stay anchored in who God says you are.

    Insiders List:

    https://amandacalfee.com/page/insider-list

    Instagram:

    https://www.instagram.com/amandacalfee/

    Email:

    amandacalfeecoaching@gmail.com

    Facebook Group:

    https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredmamas

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    15 min
  • 12 | 3 Emotional Regulation Secrets Ever Mom Needs for Parenting Strong-Willed and Neurodivergent Kids Part 2
    Oct 9 2025

    Ever feel like your emotions take over the moment your child melts down? You try to push them away, but they only come back stronger.

    In this episode, Amanda Calfee, Christian life coach and creator of The Anchored Mama Approach, teaches you how to allow emotions without being ruled by them so you can stay calm, connected, and confident—even when chaos hits.

    You’ll learn how: ✨ Your thoughts create your feelings (and how to recognize repeating thought patterns) ✨ Resisting emotions can actually make them stronger ✨ Allowing emotions opens the door to peace, connection, and freedom ✨ Jesus modeled the full range of human emotion—and invites you to do the same

    If you’ve ever felt hijacked by your feelings or disconnected from your strong-willed or neurodivergent child, this conversation will show you how to invite God into your emotional life and stop letting guilt or shame run the show.

    Bible Verses Mentioned
    1. John 11:35 – “Jesus wept.” → Used to show that even Jesus experienced and expressed emotion.

    2. Mark 14:33–34 – “He took Peter, James and John along with him, and he began to be deeply distressed and troubled. ‘My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death,’ he said to them.” → Used to illustrate that Jesus felt deep anguish and didn’t hide it.

    3. Psalm 62:8 – “Trust in Him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge.” → Emphasizes that God invites us to bring our emotions to Him rather than suppress them.

    Challenge of the Week — Allowing Emotions

    This week, when you feel a strong emotion rise up, practice allowing it instead of reacting or suppressing it.

    Steps to practice: 1️⃣ Pause and name what you’re feeling. 2️⃣ Take a deep breath and say, “It’s safe for me to feel this.” 3️⃣ Notice what happens when you stop fighting the emotion and simply let it exist.

    📝 Bonus Tip: Write a quick note each time you try this — you’ll start seeing how much lighter it feels when you stop resisting your emotions.

    Links & Resources

    Join Insiders List: https://amandacalfee.com/page/insider-list

    Instagram:

    https://www.instagram.com/amandacalfee/

    Email:

    amandacalfeecoaching@gmail.com

    Facebook Group:

    https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredmamas

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    8 min
  • 11 | 3 Emotional Regulation Secrets Every Mom Needs for Parenting Strong-Willed and Neurodivergent Kids Part 1
    Oct 2 2025

    Parenting Beyond Meltdowns is ranked in the Top 3% of podcasts globally!

    Does it ever feel like your child’s meltdowns hijack your whole mood? One moment you’re calm, the next you’re snapping, and then comes the guilt. You’re not alone, mama — and you’re not broken.

    In this first part of our two-episode series, we’re unpacking the first step to emotional resilience as a Christian mom: awareness. You’ll learn how to recognize the repetitive thoughts you carry and the emotions they create, so you can stop feeling overwhelmed and start walking in peace.

    This episode will help you:

    • Understand the link between your thoughts and emotions.
    • Learn why emotions aren’t the enemy but powerful messengers.
    • Begin noticing your inner dialogue without judgment.
    • Take on a simple 3-minute daily challenge to grow awareness.

    If you’re parenting a strong-willed or neurodivergent child — whether that’s ADHD, PDA, ODD, Autism, or ASD — this first step is crucial. Emotional regulation doesn’t begin with fixing your child’s behavior. It begins with understanding your own thought life and emotions.

    Challenge of the Week: Each day this week, set a timer for 3 minutes and ask yourself two questions:

    1. What am I thinking right now?
    2. What emotion is that thought creating?

    No judgment, just awareness. This is your first step toward peace, connection, and resilience in parenting.

    Links & Resources:

    Join Insiders List: https://amandacalfee.com/page/insider-list

    Instagram:

    https://www.instagram.com/amandacalfee/

    Email:

    amandacalfeecoaching@gmail.com

    Facebook Group:

    https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredmamas

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    9 min
  • 10 | Have a Defiant, Strong-Willed, or Neurodivergent Child? Taking Your Captive Thoughts = Calmer Meltdowns
    Sep 25 2025

    Parenting Beyond Meltdowns is ranked in the Top 3% of podcasts globally!

    Have you ever felt like your thoughts are hijacking your parenting leaving you overwhelmed, reactive, and stuck in survival mode?

    In this episode, we’re diving into three powerful anchors for your thought life that will help you take your thoughts captive, so you can show up calmer and more connected with your strong-willed or neurodivergent child (whether ADHD, ASD, ODD, or PDA).

    You’ll learn how your thoughts shape your feelings, your actions, and ultimately the atmosphere in your home. Instead of being run by fear, shame, or others’ opinions, you’ll discover practical tools to declutter your mind and anchor your thoughts in truth—so meltdowns no longer have the power to hijack your peace.

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

    • Why awareness of your thoughts is the first step to transformation.
    • How to use a “thought download” to declutter your mind and release negative loops.
    • Why other people’s opinions don’t define you—or your child.
    • Biblical encouragement on renewing your mind (Romans 12:2) and speaking life over your parenting.
    • A faith-rooted perspective on shifting from chaos to calm, even when meltdowns happen.

    Faith Anchor

    Romans 12:2 reminds us: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Mama, you don’t have to let your thoughts run wild—you can anchor them in truth and take back your peace.

    Episode Challenge

    This week, try a “thought download.” Write down every thought swirling in your mind about parenting, meltdowns, and your child. Then ask: Does this thought serve me and the relationship I want with my child? Release what doesn’t, and choose one life-giving thought to carry forward.

    Links & Resources

    Join Insiders List: https://amandacalfee.com/page/insider-list

    Instagram:

    https://www.instagram.com/amandacalfee/

    Email:

    amandacalfeecoaching@gmail.com

    Facebook Group:

    https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredmamas

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    13 min
  • 9 | What if First Time Obedience Creates Defiant Kids Who Meltdown Instead of Build Connection?
    Sep 18 2025

    Parenting Beyond Meltdowns is ranked in the Top 3% of podcasts globally!

    What comes to mind when you hear the word obedience? For many mamas, it feels tied to pressure, rules, and the belief that if our child doesn’t obey instantly, we must be failing. But what if that way of thinking is actually breaking connection with your strong-willed or neurodivergent child?

    In this episode, I’m rethinking obedience through a biblical lens — and exploring how connection, trust, and the Holy Spirit reshape the way we show up as moms, especially when raising kids with ASD, ADHD, ODD, or PDA.

    We’ll cover:

    • The traditional view of obedience — and why it often leaves kids feeling unseen or discouraged.
    • A deeper dive into Scripture and how relationship always comes before obedience.
    • The role of the Holy Spirit in guiding us away from fear-based parenting and toward love and trust.

    What you’ll walk away with:

    • A fresh perspective on obedience that prioritizes your child’s heart over fear and control.
    • Permission to meet your child at their developmental level — whether they’re strong-willed, neurodivergent, or both.
    • Practical and faith-filled encouragement to lean into the Holy Spirit’s whisper instead of the world’s pressure.

    Bible Verses Referenced:

    • Luke 22:39–45

    • Ephesians 6:1–4

    • Colossians 3:21

    Resources & Links:

    Join Insiders List: https://amandacalfee.com/page/insider-list

    Instagram:

    https://www.instagram.com/amandacalfee/

    Email:

    amandacalfeecoaching@gmail.com

    Facebook Group:

    https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredmamas

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    15 min
  • 8 | Strong-Willed or Something More? Why Regulation and Connection Matter More Than a Label
    Sep 11 2025

    Parenting Beyond Meltdowns is ranked in the Top 3% of podcasts globally!

    Mama, Is your child just strong-willed, or could something deeper be going on...

    In this episode, we’ll unpack the difference between a strong-willed child and a neurodivergent child, and why the distinction matters—but not in the way you might think.

    Because at the end of the day, your child’s identity isn’t found in a label. And yours isn’t defined by their meltdowns. 💜

    We’ll talk about:

    • The difference between strong-willed traits and neurodivergent challenges.
    • Why regulation and connection matter more than labels.
    • How to anchor yourself so you can show up with peace, regardless of diagnosis.

    Whether you’re navigating ADHD, ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder), PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance), ODD (Oppositional Defiant Disorder), or just a whole lot of strong-willed energy, this conversation will give you hope and perspective.

    Scriptures referenced:

    • Psalm 139:14 — “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”
    • Isaiah 43:1 says, “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.”

    Cleveland Clinic List Referenced:

    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/23154-neurodivergent

    Resources & Links:

    Join Insiders List: https://amandacalfee.com/page/insider-list

    Instagram:

    https://www.instagram.com/amandacalfee/

    Email:

    amandacalfeecoaching@gmail.com

    Facebook Group:

    https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredmamas

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    16 min
  • 7 | Not a Mistake: Why You’re the Exact Mom Your Strong-Willed or Neurodivergent Child Needs
    Sep 4 2025

    Parenting Beyond Meltdowns is ranked in the Top 3% of podcasts globally!

    Have you ever wondered if maybe God gave your strong-willed or neurodivergent child (ASD, ADHD, ODD, or PDA) the wrong mom? That you’re not enough, not equipped, or too overwhelmed to handle what they need?

    Mama, you’re not alone. I’ve been there—convinced I was failing, carrying guilt and shame, and believing the enemy’s lies. But here’s the truth: God doesn’t make mistakes. He didn’t just randomly place you in your child’s life. He chose you on purpose.

    In this episode, we’re diving into:

    • Why your identity as a mom is received, not earned.
    • How God equipped biblical figures like Moses, Gideon, David, Esther, Jeremiah, and the Disciples—and how He equips you too.
    • Practical steps to ask the Father to show you your God-given identity.
    • How to renew your mind daily so you can show up as the exact mom you want to be and your child needs.

    You’ll walk away with encouragement, scripture, and a fresh reminder that even in the hardest moments with your child that you are not failing, you are chosen.

    Key Scriptures Shared in This Episode

    • Exodus 4:10–12
    • Judges 6:15–16
    • Jeremiah 1:6–9
    • 1 Samuel 17:45
    • Esther 4:14
    • Acts 1:8
    • Ephesians 2:10
    • Psalm 139
    • Proverbs 18:21
    • Isaiah 43:1

    This Week’s Takeaway Spend 10 minutes with the Father and ask Him to show you your God-given identity as a mom. Write it down. Post it somewhere visible. Speak it daily. His truth, not the enemy’s lies, defines you.

    Resources & Links:

    Join Insiders List: https://amandacalfee.com/page/insider-list

    Instagram:

    https://www.instagram.com/amandacalfee/

    Email:

    amandacalfeecoaching@gmail.com

    Facebook Group:

    https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredmamas

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    10 min
  • 6 | Have Your Fears Become Reality? Why Moms of Strong-willed and Neurodivergent Need Kids Need Emotional Regulation
    Aug 28 2025

    Parenting Beyond Meltdowns is ranked in the Top 3% of podcasts globally! As a mama of an ASD, ADHD, ODD, or PDA child have you ever caught yourself speaking your fears out loud—only to watch them unfold in your child’s life? I’ve been there. In this episode, I’m sharing a personal story of how my own unregulated emotions and words began shaping mine and my child’s reality—and why regulating ourselves as moms matters so much.

    You’ll hear:

    • Why your fears don’t have to become your child’s identity

    • How a dysregulated nervous system in you can spark dysregulation in them

    • Why words have power—biblically, emotionally, and neurologically

    • Practical ways to regulate your emotions before you respond

    • How to replace fear with truth and speak life over your child

    This conversation is all about learning to pause, breathe, and anchor in God’s Word before reacting in fear—so you can parent with peace, confidence, and connection.

    Scripture References in this Episode:

    • Proverbs 18:21

    • James 3:5–6

    • 2 Timothy 1:7

    • Isaiah 41:10

    • 1 John 4:18

    • Psalm 34:4

    • Joshua 1:9

    • Isaiah 43:1

    • Jeremiah 29:11

    Mentioned in this episode: I also talk about how I personally use Young Living Essential Oils to help me regulate in the moment and create a calm environment for my home. Here is a wishlist that you can add individual items to a cart if you are interested https://tinyurl.com/ylamandacalfee

    If you have any questions at all please email me at amandacalfee@gmail.com

    Takeaway: Your fears don’t get the final word. God does. When you regulate yourself and choose to speak truth instead of fear, you create space for life, hope, and healing in your home.

    Resources & Links:

    Join Insiders List: https://amandacalfee.com/page/insider-list

    Instagram:

    https://www.instagram.com/amandacalfee/

    Email:

    amandacalfeecoaching@gmail.com

    Facebook Group:

    https://www.facebook.com/groups/anchoredmamas

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    12 min