Parenting is the hardest job we’ll ever do. And parenting a sensitive child who’s struggling can feel like an endless emotional marathon.
But what if raising your sensitive kid with big emotions could actually feel GOOD? Enter Raised Resilient with Dr. Hilary — the parenting podcast I wish I’d had as a first-time mama!
This podcast exists to support you as you parent your highly sensitive child — start at the beginning, or search below for the episode that’s most relevant for you right now!
Welcome to Raised Resilient with Dr. Hilary — empowering support for parents of sensitive kids with big emotions.

Featured
Why Gentle Parenting Isn’t Working for Your Sensitive Child
(& 3 Shifts to Help You Parent More Effectively!)
Gentle parenting is often imagined as staying calm, speaking softly, and always keeping our cool—but that version of it just doesn’t work for highly sensitive kids. In fact, if you’ve ever tried to white-knuckle your way through frustration, you know it doesn’t help.

Featured
Rethinking Child Therapy: 5 Reasons Why It May Not Be the Best Approach for Sensitive Kids
Have you ever considered therapy for your sensitive child, hoping it might be the key to managing their meltdowns and learning to regulate their big emotions? If so, this episode offers 5 compelling reasons to reconsider this intervention — from a play therapist & parenting specialist.

Featured
“You’re the Worst Mommy Ever!”: Navigating Children’s Mad Feelings
Anger is one of the trickiest emotions we deal with as parents. When our kids are angry – especially *at* us – it can be SO tough to stay calm and regulated and to respond in a way that feels good!
Parenting Reflections: Surviving a 5-Week Break with My Highly Sensitive Kids: Tips, Tricks, and Moments That Got Us Through
Winter break can feel like a lot when your sensitive kids are home for weeks on end, especially if snow days add even more time to the mix. In this podcast episode, I’m sharing my real-life experience with our five-week break thanks to year-round school. From cozy moments to screen time challenges and creative ways to stay grounded, this is all about making long breaks feel manageable—and maybe even enjoyable—for both you and your kids.
121. How to Handle Power Struggles with Your Sensitive Child (Without Getting Pulled Into the Tug-of-War!)
Power struggles with highly sensitive kids can leave you feeling stuck and overwhelmed—but they don’t have to. In this podcast episode, we’ll explore why these struggles happen, what’s driving your child’s need for control, and how to shift the dynamic. Instead of battling for control, learn how to use these moments to build trust, connection, and cooperation. You’ll walk away with actionable tips to navigate power struggles with confidence and help your child feel truly supported.
Parenting Reflections: My Highly Sensitive Son Refused Soccer on Friday—Here’s How I Took a Step Back (& What I Learned About Connection)
In this podcast episode, I share a real-life story of the moment my son, who had been excited about going to soccer practice, suddenly refused to participate. It threw me off, but it also gave me the opportunity to step back, reflect, and think about how I could best support him through his change of heart. If you’ve ever faced a situation where your child changes their mind at the last minute, especially after expressing enthusiasm, this episode will help you navigate those moments with understanding and patience.
120. Ditch “New Year, New You” Resolutions: 3 Simple Practices to Transform Your Parenting (& Life) Starting Today
Tired of the pressure to create life-changing New Year’s resolutions that leave you feeling burned out? In this podcast episode, we’re rethinking the “New Year, New You” mindset and focusing on practices that truly support your well-being and parenting journey. Discover how to shift away from grand, unsustainable goals and embrace simple, gratitude-filled habits that encourage self-care and abundant living—all without the guilt or overwhelm. Let’s start the year with intention and ease, transforming both your parenting and your life.
119. When Strangers, Family, or Friends Give Unsolicited Advice About How You’re Parenting Your Highly Sensitive Child: The #1 Mindset Shift You Need & How to Respond Confidently
Navigating unsolicited advice about how you’re parenting your highly sensitive child can be one of the most triggering challenges, especially during the holidays when family, friends, or even strangers feel the need to chime in. In this podcast episode, we dive into how to handle these moments with confidence and grace. Learn a powerful mindset shift that will help you stay grounded, plus practical tips for responding calmly when others question your parenting choices or comment on your child’s behaviors.
Parenting Reflections: The Holidays Aren’t Going as Planned—A Behind-The-Scenes Look at How I’m Handling It (& Why It’s Okay to Struggle When Everything Looks Perfect for Everyone Else)
The holiday season can be magical, but it’s not always picture-perfect—especially when parenting highly sensitive kids through unexpected challenges. In this podcast episode, I’m sharing a glimpse into my family’s holiday season so far, from navigating sickness to missing annual traditions. It’s been a whirlwind, but I’m finding ways to embrace the chaos and savor the small moments of joy. If this season feels overwhelming for you too, let’s talk about giving ourselves grace and finding calm amidst the mess.
118. 3 Tips for Smoother Holiday Gatherings with Your Highly Sensitive Child (Even When Meltdowns Happen)
Holiday gatherings can be magical, but for highly sensitive kids, they can also bring overwhelming emotions—whether it’s nervousness about socializing or excitement that turns into overstimulation. If your child struggles with meltdowns during holiday outings, this podcast episode offers simple, effective strategies to help. Learn how to prepare your child beforehand, support them through big feelings, and create a calmer, more enjoyable experience for everyone.
Parenting Reflections: Tanya’s Transformation: How a Single Mom of 3 Ended the Meltdowns & Healed Her Relationship with Her Highly Sensitive 10-Year-Old (Plus – Hear From Her Daughter, Too!)
In this podcast episode, hear the powerful story of a single mom and her highly sensitive daughter who transformed their relationship through the Chaos to Connection program. Once stuck in a cycle of meltdowns and disconnection, this mom rebuilt trust and created a peaceful, connected home for her three daughters. With both mother and daughter sharing their experiences, this heartfelt conversation offers hope and inspiration for parents navigating similar struggles. Don’t miss this uplifting story of resilience and connection!
117. The Real Reason You’re So Exhausted: Unpacking the Invisible Mental Load of the Holidays as a Parent to a Sensitive Child (& 3 Tips to Make This Season Feel Lighter!)
The holiday season is magical, but it can also be overwhelming when you’re the one behind the scenes making it all happen. In this podcast episode, we’ll talk about the invisible mental load parents carry during this time and explore 3 practical ways to lighten it. Learn how to stay present, enjoy the magic with your family, and make the season joyful for everyone—including yourself. P.S. – don’t forget our Black Friday special! Listen to the end for a way to get an extra month of live support in the Chaos to Connection program!
116. What to Do When Your Sensitive Kid Refuses to Say “Thank You”: 5 Tips for Building Real Gratitude (Without Forcing It & Causing a Meltdown!)
When your child struggles to say "thank you," it can feel frustrating and even a little embarrassing—but there’s more to it than meets the eye. In this podcast episode, we dive into why gratitude can feel overwhelming for highly sensitive kids and how these moments might be triggering for you as a parent. Listen for 5 simple strategies (plus - a Black Friday Special and a NEW GUIDE!) to help your child express thanks while fostering emotional safety for them and confidence for you.
Parenting Reflections: How I Messed Up with My Oldest This Week (& How My Mistake Can Help You Avoid Getting Stuck in the Disconnection Cycle with Your Sensitive Child!)
In this podcast episode, I share a raw and personal story from my morning that didn’t go quite as planned. I lost my cool with my oldest son, and I admit I didn’t follow the advice I teach every day. I open up about what went through my mind in the moment, how I shifted my mindset, and found a way to repair and move forward. If you’ve ever felt like you didn’t handle a parenting moment the way you wanted to, this episode will reassure you that growth comes from imperfection—and every moment is a chance to reconnect.
115. “My Child is a Sore Loser!”: 3 Strategies to Help Your Sensitive Child When They Can’t Handle Losing
Helping a highly sensitive child handle losing can be a challenge, but it’s also a chance to teach valuable life skills. In this podcast episode, we explore why losing feels extra hard for sensitive kids and how you can guide them through those big emotions. With 3 practical strategies, you’ll learn how to support your child in building resilience, managing frustration, and growing into a confident and gracious competitor. Whether it’s a game night meltdown or a tough sports match, these tips will help you turn losing into a positive learning experience.
Parenting Reflections: 5 Things I’m Doing Right Now to Avoid Overwhelm, Support My Mental Health & Show Up as the Parent I Want to Be
When the world feels chaotic and overwhelming, it can be tough to stay grounded, especially as a parent. In this week’s podcast episode, I’m sharing 5 go-to strategies that help me manage stress, take care of my mental health, and stay present for my family. From keeping my focus close to home to setting healthy limits with social media, these simple yet powerful tips can help you navigate challenging times with resilience and calm.
114. When Things Feel Stressful, Make Your World Smaller: Why Raising Resilient Kids Today Will Make a Better Tomorrow
In this podcast episode, I explore the incredible impact raising resilient kids can have on our world, especially during times of stress and uncertainty. Building resilience in our children isn’t just about helping them handle their own emotions; it’s about shaping future generations that can meet challenges with strength and compassion. We’ll cover 3 essential reasons why resilience is more important now than ever, and how we, as parents, can empower our kids to face a complex world with confidence and emotional wisdom.
Parenting Reflections: Breaking the Disconnection Cycle: Hannah’s Story of Complete Transformation That Made Parenting ‘Wonderful’ Again
In this podcast episode, I sit down with Hannah, a mom of two who has completed the Chaos to Connection program and saw a complete shift in her approach to parenting her highly sensitive child. Hannah shares how things went from feeling disconnected and chaotic to truly joyful and connected with her four-year-old, thanks to the program. Tune in to hear how this journey helped her family break free from old cycles and find peace in their day-to-day moments.
113. "My Sensitive Kid is Rude to Strangers!" -- How to Guide Your Child Through Public Encounters Without Tears, Screaming, or Embarrassment
In this podcast episode, we’re tackling those awkward moments when your highly sensitive child reacts strongly to friendly strangers. If you've ever felt embarrassed or uncertain when your child blurts out “no!” or “I don’t want to smile!” to a well-meaning person in public, you're not alone. Join me as I explore why these interactions can feel overwhelming for sensitive kids, what’s really behind those big reactions, and practical ways to help them feel safer and more at ease in busy settings. Let’s turn these tricky moments into confidence-builders for you and your child!
Parenting Reflections: My Sensitive Child Hit, Spit, and Called Me Names -- Here's Exactly How I Handled It to Build Lasting Emotional Resilience
We've all experienced those hectic days when it feels impossible to carve out quality time with our little ones. In this podcast episode, I reflect on a challenging day with my 3.5-year-old daughter, who had a significant meltdown after spending much of the day apart from me. As she let her emotions spill out, I tapped into my years of parenting wisdom and therapy insights to respond calmly instead of getting overwhelmed. Join me as I share this proud parenting moment and explore the power of simply being present to help our sensitive children process their feelings.
112. 5 Ways You Might Be Shaming Your Sensitive Child Without Meaning to (& What to Do Instead!)
In this podcast episode, we’re tackling the subtle ways shame can creep into our interactions with sensitive kids—and how, as parents, we can shift to more supportive approaches. Even with the best intentions, certain phrases and reactions can make our kids feel misunderstood or invalidated. I’ll share 5 common habits that might unintentionally cause shame and offer simple, effective swaps to create a more validating and safe space for your child to express their big feelings.
Parenting Reflections: How I Use "Micro Connections" to Keep My Sensitive Kid Feeling Secure (Without Hours of Play)
Feeling like you need to spend hours with your child just to keep them feeling connected and secure? In this podcast episode, I’m sharing a simple but powerful approach called "micro connections" that can help fill your highly sensitive child's emotional cup without taking up all your time. These small moments of connection throughout the day can make a huge impact—and I'll share some personal wins to show just how it works!
111. When the “Calm-Down Corner” Isn’t Enough: How Overusing Coping Skills Can Fall Short for Highly Sensitive Kids (& What Can Help Instead!)
Coping skills don’t always work the way we expect for highly sensitive kids, and it can be frustrating when they’re still overwhelmed despite trying everything. In this podcast episode, I’ll dive into why that happens and what parents might be doing wrong without even realizing it. You’ll discover why simply using coping skills to escape emotions isn’t enough and learn how to guide your child through their big feelings in a way that helps them grow, not just avoid the discomfort.