In this transformative episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker welcomes psychotherapist and parenting coach Todd Sarner to unpack powerful, research-backed parenting strategies that prioritize connection and attachment over behavior control. Sarner challenges the traditional "behavior-first" models and instead encourages a relational, attachment-first parenting style that fosters emotional regulation, trust, and long-term resilience in children.

From exploring the root causes of conflict to rethinking discipline through the lens of unmet needs, this episode provides practical tools, mindset shifts, and actionable advice for parents navigating the complexities of raising emotionally healthy children in today's world. Todd also teases key insights from his upcoming book, The Calm and Connected Parent, making this a must-listen for any caregiver wanting to parent with purpose, empathy, and strength.

About Our Guest

Todd Sarner, MFT, is a psychotherapist and parenting coach who has spent over 20 years helping parents turn daily struggles into lasting connection and cooperation at home. He is the founder of Transformative Parenting and the author of the forthcoming book The Calm & Connected Parent: An Attachment-First Guide to Raising Resilient Kids in the Age of Screens and AI (November 2025). Blending attachment science with practical psychology, Todd offers clear, compassionate tools that move beyond theory into real-world strategies parents can use in heated moments. He specializes in working with high-achieving, thoughtful parents who often feel like they’re doing everything “right” but still experience conflict, disconnection, or digital-age pressures. Through his coaching, teaching, and writing, Todd empowers families to help their children thrive emotionally while creating more calm and connection at home.

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Disclosure: This episode is sponsored by Todd Sarner and Transformative Parenting. We received compensation for this interview. All opinions expressed are our own.

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Ep. 300 Unlocking Connection and Calm in Parenting: The Attachment-First Approach