Ditching Dobson: Choosing Conscious Christian Parenting (with Amy Hughes)

What if the goal isn’t to break a strong-willed child but to nurture that untamed will into something beautiful? That’s the question parenting coach Amy Hughes keeps asking—and it has taken her far beyond the “strong-willed child” playbook popularized by Dr. James Dobson. In this conversation Amy and Josh explore a gentler, truly Christian vision of authority, discipline, and discipleship—one that treats kids as whole people made in God’s image. How “conscious parenting” reframes discipline as connection first, correction second Why words like “good” or “bad” can warp a child’s sense of God and themselves The hidden damage of fear-based obedience inside church culture Practical ways to coach (not crush) a strong-willed kid Repairing relationships with older children through humble apologies Trusting God’s sovereignty over your child’s spiritual journey instead of micromanaging it Amy is a certified conscious-parenting coach who helps moms and dads move from control and coercion to curiosity and connection. Drawing on her faith and years of mentoring families, she equips parents to raise confident, compassionate kids and to enjoy the process along the way. Connect with Amy: Instagram: @simplelittleamy Website & coaching resources