Welcome to
Climbing Fish Parenting Podcast
Your Weekly Dose of Sanity
Deep-dive episodes on the biggest parenting challenges
Behavioral science made simple and actionable
For parents who’ve tried everything - and need something different
Your kid isn’t broken. Your parenting isn’t broken. Sometimes, we’re just asking our fish to climb trees.
If you're an exhausted parent who's tried everything and nothing has worked—this podcast is for you. You're carrying guilt about your parenting. Your child's behaviors don't respond to the typical strategies. The advice from books, friends, and even professionals just... doesn't fit.
Here's what I need you to know: You're not failing. You're just using the wrong map.
I'm Dr. Kristi, a psychologist and behavior analyst, and I help parents understand their child's unique wiring and use strategies that actually work. Whether your child has a diagnosis or you just know they're wired differently—whether it's ADHD, ASD, anxiety, sensory sensitivities, or they're just... not like the parenting books describe—this is for you.
No fluff. No shame. Just practical, evidence-based guidance from someone who gets it.
Each episode gives you real strategies for real challenges—meltdowns, school struggles, bedtime battles, and everything in between. This is where we stop asking fish to climb trees and start helping them swim.
You've Tried Everything (And Here's Why Nothing Worked)
"Everybody is a genius, but if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing it's stupid."
Your fish doesn't need to learn to climb. They just need the right environment to swim.
Stop Asking Your Fish to Climb Trees: Why Your "Difficult" Child Isn't Broken
"Everybody is a genius, but if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing it's stupid."
Your fish doesn't need to learn to climb. They just need the right environment to swim.
Finding a Voice: How AAC, PECS, and Sign Language Support Nonverbal Children with Autism
Imagine living for months or even years with no way to communicate your wants or needs. This is the reality for many nonverbal children with autism.
Parenting with Compassion: Navigating Anxiety and OCD in Children
It’s movie night, and the family is gathered on the couch, ready to enjoy a film together. But your child isn’t sitting with everyone else. Instead, they’re in the bathroom, washing their hands for what feels like the hundredth time…
The Importance of Social Skills in a Child’s Development
As parents, it can be heartbreaking to see your child struggle with friendships. You might see their unique qualities and wish others could appreciate them as you do. When a child faces difficulties with social interactions, it can lead to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression.
The Impact of Technology on ADHD: Understanding the Risks and Challenges
Today, technology and social media have become central to many of our daily routines. Research has highlighted the negative impact of excessive technology use, with these effects are especially concerning for those with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).