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The Neuroscience of Motherhood and Connection with Kate Kripke

Author
Michelle Kenney, M. Ed
Published
Tue 27 May 2025
Episode Link
https://redcircle.com/shows/7b705795-7e51-4417-aefb-94769f0af239/episodes/72606f49-e8ab-40fe-8322-8d2a77a0666a

Do you find yourself constantly striving for perfection in your parenting? Does the idea of not having all the answers or losing control fill you with anxiety? If you're a high-achieving parent who wants deep connection but finds yourself stuck in a "fix-it" or "control" mindset, this episode is for you.


Today, I have a truly insightful conversation with Kate Kripke, a licensed clinical social worker and perinatal mental health counselor. We dive into the neuroscience behind why many high-achieving women, like us, approach motherhood with a desire for control and achievement, and why that very approach can hinder the deep connection we crave. We discuss how our own need to feel in control stems from a fundamental need for safety.


Kate and I explore the critical difference between control and influence, emphasizing that true positive influence comes from a place of inner steadiness and emotional regulation, not external demands. This episode is a powerful invitation to release the "shoulds" of parenting and lean into grace, presence, and heart-centered connection.


In This Episode

πŸ‘‰ Understanding the brain's role in mothering

πŸ‘‰ How to differentiate control from influence

πŸ‘‰ How to address fear-based parenting

πŸ‘‰ Releasing the need to "fix it"

πŸ‘‰ Embracing the discomfort of not knowing

πŸ‘‰ Prioritizing inner steadiness for connection

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πŸ“² Follow Kate on Instagram @katekripke


πŸ”— Interested in group or 1:1 Coaching? Book a Discovery Call today.


πŸ’Œ Enjoy today’s episode? Please share it with a fellow parent or leave a rating and a review.


πŸ“– Check out my book UNPUNISHED!


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Interested in learning how to balance parenting and technology? Join my Plugged in Parenting seminar on April 29-30: https://peaceandparentingla.com/event-understanding-kids-technology

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