School Of Awesome Sauce With Greg Denning

Do you ever wonder why you're not happy, even when life looks good on the outside?You’re raising kids, checking off your to-do list, maybe even living in your dream house—but something still feels… off. Like you’re just going through the motions. If that’s you, this episode is exactly what you need.In this honest and actionable conversation, we share 7 specific strategies we use as a couple and family to intentionally practice happiness—no matter how hard, stressful, or chaotic life gets.These aren’t fluffy mindset hacks. These are real-life tools we use daily to overcome burnout, shift our emotional state, and reconnect with purpose.We cover how to:Use mundane tasks like washing dishes as emotional recoveryConnect daily habits to your long-term goals for deeper meaningRecognize signs you're emotionally depleted—and what to do nextBuild “micro-doses” of joy and excitement into your calendarUse movement and analog tasks to boost your mood naturallyAlign your marriage so you're not living as "roommates"Create a

Are you constantly feeling overwhelmed, irritated, or like you’re just going through the motions of family life?Do you wish you could feel more joy, peace, and connection—but don’t know how to actually get there in the midst of chores, tantrums, and to-do lists?In this episode, we share how to actually enjoy family life—even when it’s hard, boring, or chaotic. We explore how being present—truly present—can radically transform your parenting and your emotional state. You’ll learn how to stop “trying” to be calm or patient... and instead become calm and patient from the inside out—so you can raise happier, more resilient kids who feel safe, seen, and emotionally supported every day.We unpack how your emotional baseline affects your family culture, why pretending to be peaceful isn’t enough, and how small daily habits like mindfulness, gratitude, and intentional action can raise your emotional thermostat.You’ll also discover how to remove hidden emotional blocks and process negative feelings—so you can genuinely

Are the men in your home grumpy, disconnected, or hard to reach emotionally? Do you ever feel like there's a quiet tension simmering under the surface of your marriage?In this raw and honest conversation, we dive into how unmet sexual needs (and/or porn usage) —and a lack of emotional and physical connection—are contributing to frustration, moodiness, and even disconnection in marriage and family life.You might be surprised to learn that it’s not just men who are feeling sexually frustrated—many women are too. And when this deep need for connection is unmet, it seeps into every area of life: parenting, partnership, communication, and even personal confidence.We explore how porn, masturbation, stress, and lack of emotional intimacy are silently sabotaging marriages—and how to rebuild connection, fulfillment, and joy through intentional effort and honest conversations.This episode is for couples who want more than just “getting by.” It’s for those who want thriving, deeply connected, emotionally intelligent mar

Are you tired of feeling stuck in the same frustrating patterns of family conflict?Do small arguments keep escalating, leaving you drained, defeated, or disconnected?In this empowering episode, we break down exactly how to step out of the Family Drama Triangle—the toxic cycle of victim, villain, and rescuer that silently sabotages your parenting, partnership, and peace.We share the 3 surprisingly simple steps that will help you break free from reactive patterns and create more calm, connection, and cooperation in your home—starting today.

Are you struggling with how to handle conflicts and tough behavior with your kids?Do consequences often feel harsh or ineffective, leaving your family stressed instead of connected?In this episode, we dive deep into using natural consequences as a powerful tool for conflict resolution in your family. Instead of punishments or power struggles, discover how fun yet impactful consequences can teach kids respect, empathy, and responsibility — all while strengthening your family bonds.Raising seven kids ourselves, we know how challenging sibling rivalry and hurtful words can be. We share real-life strategies that help kids own their mistakes, learn from them, and choose kindness next time — without resentment or fear.If you want to create a peaceful home where your children develop emotional intelligence and self-control, this episode is packed with practical, easy-to-implement ideas that truly work.Whether your kids are toddlers or teens, these natural consequence techniques will empower you to turn conflict into

Are you and your spouse constantly disagreeing about HOW to best parent your children?Are you wondering if one (or both) of your parenting styles is hurting your child’s emotional growth?And if so, what do you do about it, especially when you disagree so adamantly?In this episode, we unpack the subtle but powerful effects that parenting styles have on children’s development—especially when it comes to raising resilient, well-adjusted kids. Many parents unknowingly adopt habits that hold their families back from true emotional health and connection.Parenting is a daily practice of small choices, and understanding which styles promote emotional intelligence, confidence, and independence can transform your family life.Join us as we share the key things we NEVER do as parents of 7 children, and how those ‘never-dos’ have shaped a positive, loving family culture where kids learn to thrive.You’ll hear practical advice on:How authoritative parenting builds self-worthWhy harsh or inconsistent discipline backfiresThe

Do your kids struggle with tantrums, power struggles, or emotional meltdowns—and you’re not sure how to stop the cycle without yelling or harsh discipline?After posting on Instagram about how we raised our 7 kids without yelling, punishments, or power struggles, we received so much interest and questions from parents wanting to know—is it really possible?Yes, it is—and in this episode, we share exactly how we did it.Raising emotionally healthy, well-adjusted kids starts with creating a strong foundation of love, trust, and connection. In this conversation, we unpack the specific things we never do as parents, and why avoiding them has helped our children become confident, competent, and emotionally resilient.From mockery and sarcasm to yelling, punishments, and ignoring big feelings—these parenting pitfalls actually increase misbehavior, power struggles, and emotional shutdown.We also share personal stories—including a controversial ocean swim encounter—that demonstrate how pushing limits (safely and intentio

Feeling torn between your big dreams and the tiny humans in your care?Do you ever wonder if you’ll ever have the time, energy, or space to pursue the big dreams in your heart — while you're still night nursing, co-sleeping, and managing tantrums between business tasks?You're not alone.In this episode, Rachel gets real about what it takes to be an ambitious mom in the baby and toddler years — and why the real secret isn't doing it all right now... but doing what matters most and learning to trust the process.You'll hear:- Why it’s okay (and wise) to pause or rearrange your dreams — not abandon them- The long-term power of building a secure foundation for your child first- Gentle strategies for night weaning and moving beyond co-sleeping- What Rachel would go back and say to herself as a young mom with a business and babies- Small ways to nurture your goals in this season without burning outThis is your permission slip to stop striving, lean into the season you're in, and trust that your dre

Do your kids constantly bicker, tattle, or compete for attention? Are you tired of breaking up fights and wondering if sibling rivalry is just normal?In this episode, we dive deep into how we've navigated sibling dynamics while raising seven kids—without letting rivalry and resentment take over our home.We share the simple but powerful habits that have helped us create a strong family culture where our kids actually like each other and feel secure in their individual roles.You’ll learn why sibling rivalry isn’t just about the kids—it’s a symptom of deeper family patterns and culture.We’ll show you what to shift as the parent to foster cooperation instead of competition, and how to create an emotionally safe environment where kids don’t have to fight to be seen, heard, or valued.Whether you're raising two kids or twelve, this episode will equip you with practical tools and mindset shifts that can transform your home from chaotic to connected.If you're ready to stop the fighting and start building s

Have you ever worried about whether your parenting methods are building real emotional connection—or unintentionally causing harm?We received a thoughtful question from a listener who shared a heartbreaking personal story: while her mom intended to foster attachment, her methods—like forced "holding time"—ended up destroying trust and psychological safety instead.In this episode, we dive deep into what we do and do not mean when we talk about attachment, emotional safety, and parenting strategies.Attachment parenting is about honoring a child’s free will—not demanding submission. True psychological safety is built through respect, patience, and emotional connection—not control or coercion.We'll clarify why even good parenting philosophies can be twisted if they aren't grounded in emotional intelligence and healthy boundaries.And we’ll share practical ways you can foster true psychological safety in your home while supporting your child’s natural emotional development.If you want to raise res

Are you struggling with constant meltdowns, defiance, rebellion, or other 'bad' behavior from your child—whether they’re 3 or 23?Do you feel disconnected from them and like they won't listen, share, confide, or trust you?Here’s the truth: “bad” behavior is almost never the real issue. It’s a signal—a symptom of something deeper going on beneath the surface… usually a broken or weakened emotional connection with you, their parent.In this episode, we dive into the root cause of most behavioral challenges—and it’s not what most parents think. Whether you’re dealing with a sassy teen, a withdrawn preteen or tween, or a tantrum-prone toddler, the answer isn’t more discipline. It’s more connection.We unpack what emotional disconnection looks like in everyday parenting—and how to rebuild the bond in ways that transform your child’s behavior from the inside out. You’ll learn practical ways to:Rebuild emotional safety, even after years of strainAvoid the common parenting habits that sabotage connectionCrea

Are you overwhelmed by your child’s clinginess, emotional meltdowns, tantrums, or constant need for attention?Do you want to be a calm, connected parent—but feel touched out, maxed out, and unsure how to respond without creating 'bad habits' in your children?In this episode, we respond to a heartfelt question from a listener who asked: “How do I support my children when they’re being emotionally needy—but I’m running on empty myself? My husband says I'm forming bad habits in my kids and wearing myself out.”She’s a devoted mom trying to show up with love—but when her child is falling apart, crying, throwing tantrums, or needing constant reassurance, she feels like she’s emotionally drowning. Her natural response is to set more boundaries for her children to protect herself from burnout -- but is the best approach when YOU are the person who's the adult?If you’ve ever felt stuck between your own limits and your child’s emotional needs, this conversation is for you.We explore how attachment paren

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the idea of providing an exceptional education for your children? Do you want to foster a love of learning while preparing them for a future filled with curiosity and independence?In this second part of a two-part episode, we address a question from a listener—a successful businesswoman and mom of four—who is struggling to balance her career, homeschooling aspirations, and being the most present mom she can be. She’s driven and accomplished, but overwhelmed, seeking a way to provide her children with an extraordinary education while maintaining her own well-being and their social development.In this episode, we dive deep into the key principles that must be a part of your educational approach if you want your kids to experience a truly extraordinary education. We discuss the power of self-directed learning and how it can unlock your children's potential to take charge of their own educational journey.Education is not just about textbooks and tests—it's about developing a

Are you struggling to balance your business/career while being a present mom at the same time? (We had multiple technical issues with this episode. Please forgive the sudden ending).Achieving work-life balance as a mompreneur can feel impossible, but the small decisions you make every day can either help you manage overwhelm or contribute to burnout.In this episode, we dive deep into how to create a work-life balance without sacrificing your well-being, ambitions, or the time you spend with your children. We discuss the challenges of being both a businesswoman and a present mom and explore how to find a delicate balance between family life and career goals.A listener co-owns a real estate brokerage with her husband, feels conflicted about slowing down to be a better mom. She feels the pressure to create something extraordinary in both her career and personal life, wanting to provide her kids with a quality education, social experiences, and a well-rounded upbringing. She worries about burnout, being pulled in

Are you struggling with finding the balance between 'guiding' your kids' choices and empowering them with real (but frightening) agency? In this episode, we answer a listener’s thoughtful question about how to support their kids in developing individual agency while still fostering a strong, supportive parental attachment and safe environment that protects from real risk without being overly controlling and 'helicoptering'.This listener wonders if their parenting approach might be leaning more toward “managed choices” rather than allowing their children the space to make truly independent decisions. We explore the critical difference between agency and managed choices, which approach works best for which ages/maturity levels, and why it’s so important for children to experience true agency as early as possible. We also discuss how parents can equip their kids with the skills and confidence they need to make their own decisions—without feeling controlled. This candid discussion provides ins

Are you struggling with how to handle your child's tough emotions or challenging behaviors?Did you know that it's the small, everyday habits that are sabotaging your family's happiness and contributing to misbehavior?In this episode, we dive into the things we NEVER do as parents of 7 children to ensure a positive, nurturing family culture that helps our children grow into well-adjusted, confident, and emotionally resilient individuals.Raising kids is no easy task, but cultivating a loving and supportive environment where they can develop emotional maturity and healthy coping mechanisms is key. In this candid discussion, we reveal the strategies that have worked for our family to promote resilience and prevent common pitfalls like mocking, sarcasm, and unresolved anger.We discuss the importance of honesty and emotional authenticity, the value of constructive feedback, and how to address small issues before they grow into bigger problems. From avoiding the pitfalls of negative language to fostering open commun

Does having children or being married make you more unhappy than single or childless individuals? Many people (rightly) say 'Yes'! That's why more and more people are choosing to remain single, to avoid long-term commitments, and to vow to never have children at all. Because it IS hard and often makes you 'unhappy'.But what if happiness is not the point of life? What if the challenges of marriage and parenting aren't something to avoid, but the very things that make life meaningful? In this episode, we dive into a conversation inspired by a Facebook post that sparked a debate on whether the struggles of raising children and maintaining a marriage are worth it. The Dennings explore the idea that, far from being reasons to quit, these challenges are paths to personal growth, fulfillment, and a more rewarding, meaningful (even if sometimes unhappy), life.They also challenge the modern trend of avoiding discomfort for the sake of comfort and convenience, instead suggesting that leaning int

Are you feeling confused, frustrated, or angry about the noise of politics and social media? Constantly caught between opposing views, trying to figure out what’s true? In this episode, we explore the idea that true change begins with YOU. Instead of getting caught up in the endless political cycle, we focus on self development and taking control of your own life.As the world seems more divided than ever, the only way forward is to navigate through the chaos with a balanced perspective—just like walking the labyrinth of life. In this thought-provoking conversation, we dive into why you can’t just settle on one side of the issue and call it truth. Truth is dynamic—it’s about developing all parts of yourself and understanding both sides. It’s about evolving, continuing the journey, and embracing the complexity of life.From the importance of family to the role of personal health and relationships in creating a strong foundation for societal change, we challenge the notion of trying to fix the world before fixing

"What are some practical steps to change our emotional state? How do we change the energy that we radiate? You guys emphasize that it’s a choice, we can choose... but why does that feel so difficult and strange? How do you do it so that it is genuine and not a mask?"In this episode, Greg and Rachel explore the powerful impact of emotional awareness and emotional intelligence on family life -- especially on your ability to parent well. They dive into these thoughtful questions, explaining why emotional shifts can feel challenging and how to make those changes feel authentic.The Dennings break down how cultivating emotional awareness helps us recognize the root causes of our feelings, fostering healthier relationships and stronger family dynamics with our children. They share practical strategies like practicing gratitude, becoming aware of our thoughts, and using physical actions (such as exercise) to shift our emotional states.By the end of this episode, you’ll gain practical, actionable tools to be

In this powerful episode, we delve into the concept of EXTREME Gratitude — a mindset that can shift the way we experience life's challenges and blessings. Join us as we reflect on the fragility of life and howtragedy can serve as a stark reminder to cherish every precious moment with our children. From personal stories of heartache and near-loss to practical advice for cultivating a deeper sense of appreciation, this episode encourages parents to embrace gratitude over frustration. Learn how you can correct your child's behavior with love, not irritation, and how focusing on what truly matters can transform the way you parent. This sobering, yet hopeful message will inspire you to embrace life with greater intention and show your children how much they are truly cherished.More videos on challenging situations that caused us to focus on what truly matters:RESOURCES:Let us help you in your extraordinary family life journey:JOIN GREG'S ⁠90-DAY HEALTH & FITNESS CHALLENGE⁠! Get Rachel's⁠⁠⁠Family Systems &