The Marriage & Motherhood Podcast: Navigating Co-Parenting & Boundaries

In this episode of the Marriage and Motherhood Podcast, I am joined by Mikki Gardner to discuss the complex world of co-parenting. Mikki is a certified life and conscious parenting coach, host of the Co-Parenting with Confidence Podcast, and author of The People Pleaser’s Guide to Co-Parenting Well. With her background in navigating life post-divorce and helping moms transition through the emotional and practical difficulties of co-parenting, Mikki shares invaluable insights on managing these complex relationships.

Understanding Co-Parenting and Its Challenges

Co-parenting is a subject that many listeners may not have direct experience in but, as Mikki explains, the principles often apply to all types of parenting, including married couples.

She defines co-parenting as parenting with anyone that you don’t agree with 100 percent of the time. So, across the board, this is everyone.

Mikki emphasizes the significance of being grounded and maintaining peace, even when faced with disagreements. She explains how being intentional and aware contributes immensely to effective co-parenting.

The Importance of Self-Awareness in Parenting

 Being intentional first requires working on your own self-awareness.

This self-awareness helps in avoiding reactivity—a common issue among parents. Recognizing the difference between a reaction and an intentional response can help maintain harmony in both co-parenting and other relationships.

Setting and Maintaining Boundaries

Setting boundaries is another critical point discussed. Boundaries aren’t about controlling others; they’re about what you will do in response to their actions.

Communicating clearly what your boundaries are and upholding them without trying to control the other party.

Protecting Your Peace

Mikki shared her 4 step process in protecting your peace:

1. Awareness: Recognizing one’s emotions and triggers.
2. Agency: Understanding the choices available—accept, change, or leave.
3. Aligned Action: Taking actions that align with one's values and desired outcomes.
4. Accountability: Ensuring that one has the support needed to stay on track.

By following these steps, parents can better navigate conflicts and ensure healthier relationships.

Aligning Actions with Intentions

Aligning actions with intentions creates a more peaceful co-parenting relationship. If this is challenging to you, we recommend working with mediators or seeking external support, like coaches or therapists, when necessary.

Connect with Mikki Gardner:
- Website: www.mikkigardner.com

- Instagram: @mikkigardner
- Podcast: Co-Parenting with Confidence