Today we’d like to introduce you to Merri Guggisberg.
Hi Merri, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Absolutely. My journey into parent coaching began with a deep understanding of what so many parents feel but rarely say out loud: that quiet fear of either doing too much-or not enough-for our kids. So many parents I meet want to raise emotionally healthy children who know they can come to them with anything, but they’re navigating this in a world full of noise, pressure, and distraction-especially around technology.
I’ve always been drawn to supporting families. As a mom of two, I often found myself wondering, “Am I doing this right?” Even with a strong support network, I still wished for more guidance-something practical, honest, and grounded in care. That desire to feel less alone and more confident as a parent is what planted the seed for the work I do now.
Over the years, I’ve had the honor of speaking to hundreds of parents, educators, and professionals on topics that really matter-like caring for our family’s emotional well-being, building digital wellbeing in a tech-saturated world, and putting strength into action through the Values In Action Character Strengths. Parents are often moved by the message and say, “Yes, this is what I’ve been needing.” But then they ask the most important question: “How do I really apply this at home, in the middle of everyday life?”
That’s where my coaching comes in. I walk alongside parents, offering practical tools and heart-centered support through one-on-one sessions, group coaching, and community workshops. My work is rooted in the belief that kids don’t come with instructions – but that support is available. My mission is to make sure parents know they’re not alone and that meaningful, connected parenting is possible.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road-but it’s been a meaningful one. Like parenting itself, this work requires a lot of perseverance. There are moments when the impact is clear and deeply rewarding, and there are others when you’re planting seeds and trusting they’ll grow over time.
One of the biggest challenges has been balancing the heart-centered nature of this work with the realities of running a mission-driven business. There’s a lot of behind-the-scenes work that people don’t always see-creating resources, building relationships, staying grounded while navigating the many demands that come with speaking, coaching, and supporting families.
But I’ve learned to celebrate the small stuff-every breakthrough a parent has, every “that really helped” moment, every child who feels more understood at home. That’s what keeps me going. I also credit an incredible support network—both personally and professionally. I wouldn’t be here without the people who’ve encouraged me, collaborated with me, and reminded me why this work matters.
The road hasn’t been easy, but it’s been filled with purpose. And that makes all the difference.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
At MKG Parent Coach, I help parents and caregivers build stronger, more connected relationships with their children-especially during the messy, stressful, and uncertain moments of parenting. I specialize in working with families navigating everyday challenges like screen time struggles, emotional outbursts, peer pressure, and the ongoing worry: “Am I doing enough? Am I doing this right?”
What sets MKG apart is that everything I do is grounded in mindfulness, kindness, and gratitude. These aren’t just buzzwords-they’re guiding values that shape every conversation, coaching session, and workshop I offer. I believe parenting isn’t about being perfect-it’s about showing up with presence, responding with care, and finding gratitude even in the hard moments.
Through one-on-one coaching, group support, and community events, I walk hand-in-hand with parents-not just inspiring them but giving them tools they can use right away. My signature PAUSE Process helps parents be more Present, Attentive, and Understanding with their kids, while expanding Support networks and Exploring real-life solutions. It’s a practical, heart-centered approach that gives families a way forward when they feel stuck or overwhelmed.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud that MKG Parent Coach is a place where people feel seen, supported, and not judged. Families consistently tell me they leave feeling calmer, clearer, and more connected-not only to their kids, but to themselves.
I want your readers to know: parenting is hard, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, educator, or someone who cares deeply about kids, support is available-and I’m here to help you create a more mindful, kind, and connected home.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Honestly? It’s the simple things. Being outside in nature, going on long walks with our dog, reading a good book, or spending time around the table with my family-those are the moments that fill me up. I love when we’re just playing a board game, laughing, and no one’s rushing off anywhere.
I think those slower, more connected moments feel really grounding-especially in a world that moves so fast. They remind me to breathe, to be present, and to be grateful. That’s what makes me happy-time to just be with the people I love, without pressure or performance. Just real connection.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://mkgparentcoach.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mkgparentcoach/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mkgparentcoach
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/merriguggisberg/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mkgparentcoach
