We had the good fortune of connecting with Katherine Saltzberg and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Katherine, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
It was actually my late husband’s idea. He saw how passionate I was about sharing what helped us solve our parenting problems—problems that were only getting worse from the advice of well-intended and expensive experts. It was through his encouragement and belief that the process began. I am forever grateful to him.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
What sets me apart from others is that nearly all parents who follow the plan we’ve created together (no parent or child is cookie-cutter) and provide feedback so I can tweak it for the greatest effectiveness, get solutions to their kids’ behavior problems very quickly. I’m usually the one they reach out to after they’ve tried everything else: gentle parenting techniques, experts with many letters after their names, rewards, charts, threats, negotiating, bribing, yelling. They’ve tried it all to solve garden-variety issues such as tantrums, kids not staying in their rooms at bedtime, picky eating, sibling conflict, defiance, homework issues, and/or school behavior problems. And the number one daddy of them all—kids not listening. By the time parents come to me, they’re emotionally and often financially exhausted. My goal is not only to provide solutions for their parenting problems but also to help them learn how to solve these issues on their own by following basic, tried-and-true parenting principles.
How did I get to where I am business-wise? By listening to and learning from others. My friend and fellow coach Susan Eppley (Parent Coach Atlanta), helped me a lot with all aspects of my business. No, it wasn’t easy, but nothing worthwhile is. I overcame yesterday’s challenges the same way I overcome today’s: I pray, meditate, ask for help and support, and, most of all, remind myself that I am here to make a difference in the lives of parents who need and want my help. I’m always learning lessons and sometimes the same ones over and over again. 🙂 The lesson that stands out most of all for me is taking total responsibility for every aspect of my business.
I want the world to know about my brand: I’m committed to helping parents solve their parenting problems as quickly and effectively as possible, and in doing so, raise happier, well behaved. and more resilient children.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The best time ever?? Wow, that’s a lot of pressure. First, I’d want to know what they’re interested in, and we’d go from there. A week-long trip… hmm, depends on where they’re from, too. I won’t take a Floridian to Disneyland!
So, my best friend is here for a week, and I’m planning the best time ever. Gosh, I need to get out more—this isn’t helping, is it?
Here goes:
Monday: They arrive. We’re driving up PCH, rain or shine. We grab coffee from Alfred Coffee at the Country Mart, then head to the Malibu Pier early in the morning so they can see dolphins and pelicans diving for fish. After hanging out and catching up (lots to talk about), we go to Pita Bu across from the pier for fresh fish, kabobs, and side salads. They have to see the main Pier, the outdoor gym, and Venice Beach, of course. Since we’re on the westside, we’ll hit the Santa Monica stairs, then head to Trattoria Natalie on Pico.
Tuesday: Gotta see the Getty. We’ll grab a bite at the Garden Terrace, then take a scenic drive down Topanga Canyon.
Wednesday: We’ll hike Fryman Canyon and the Tree People, or maybe Runyon, and maybe spot some celebs. Then, we’ll take in the view from Mulholland, drive down Sunset, and stop by the Beverly Hills Hotel for a drink at the Polo Lounge. We’ll see the homes in Beverly Hills, stroll down Rodeo Drive, and check out Mann’s Chinese Theatre, the Walk of Fame, and all the characters—costumed and otherwise. A night drive down Sunset is a must, and if they’re into vegan food, we’ll go to Real Food Daily. If not, we’ll head to Ruth’s Chris, Mastro’s, or La Gondola, which is a personal favorite.
Thursday: The Observatory and Hollywood Bowl are non-negotiable. We’ll picnic at both places. We’ll pick up supplies at Sprouts, Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, or Erewhon—home of the world’s most expensive smoothie, where you might spot a celeb.
Friday: Off to Pasadena for Descanso Gardens and the Huntington Library. Later, we’ll visit LACMA and Downtown LA for Disney Hall and The Music Center, and maybe catch a symphony or a play at the Ahmanson.
Saturday: We’re hitting the zoo, Travel Town, and Pickwick Bowling for some fun in Burbank.
Sunday: On the way to the airport, we’ll have brunch in the marina and enjoy the boats. Hope you had a good time!
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Psychologist and parenting expert John Rosemond.
Website: https://www.parentingsolutionscoach.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parentingsolutionscoach/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-saltzberg-00578a4b/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/home.php
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@parentingsolutionscoach
Image Credits
Paul Smith Photography (headshot)