What happens when the parenting strategies we grew up with stop working?

In this episode of Curious AF Podcast, Luke sits down with parenting coach Sue Donnellan to unpack why yelling, punishment, and control often backfire — and what actually works instead. Sue shares her journey from “reformed yeller” to intentional leader in the home, drawing on psychology, behavioural science, and real-world parenting experience.

Together, they explore how proactive, leadership-based parenting builds confident, resilient kids, why relationship matters more than obedience, and how parents can raise independent children in a world full of distraction.

This conversation is for parents who feel stuck in power struggles, overwhelmed by modern parenting, or ready to lead their families with clarity, calm, and intention.

Key Takeaways: 

• Why yelling is not just ineffective but damaging to a child’s nervous system
• How leadership principles from business apply directly to parenting
• The power of parenting proactively instead of reacting in the moment
• How to build trust so your kids tell you everything, without fear
• Why resilience doesn’t come from neglect, but from responsibility and purpose
• Teaching balance and independence in a world of screens and distractions
• Navigating blended families by focusing on culture, not control

Guest Bio: 

Sue Donnellan is a parent coach, author, entrepreneur, wife, and mum of four, including triplets. Through her work at Ask Mom Parenting, Sue helps parents break free from yelling, power struggles, and burnout, and replace chaos with calm, clarity, and connection. Her leadership-based approach is rooted in Montessori principles, focusing on responsibility, contribution, and independence from toddlers through teens. Blending psychology, behavioural science, and real-world parenting experience, Sue equips families with practical tools to prevent problems rather than react to them. For over 20 years, her proven system has helped parents rebuild trust, reset family dynamics, and create homes where every member feels respected and valued.

Connect with Sue:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/askmomparenting/
Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@askmomparenting571

ABOUT CURIOUS AF PODCAST

Curious AF is a podcast for people who want more out of life than just ticking boxes. Hosted by Luke Biermann, entrepreneur, father of three, and relentless explorer of human potential, the show dives deep into the conversations that matter.

From endurance sports and entrepreneurship to psychedelics, parenting, spirituality, and self-discovery, Curious AF explores how we can live with greater purpose, connection, and fulfilment.

Expect raw, unfiltered stories and thoughtful insights from people who are redefining success, breaking cycles, and choosing to live with intention.

For further information, contact:
General Inquiries: hello@curiousaf.com.au
Instagram: @curiousaf.podcast