My kids listen to their mother, who is famously easy to get along with. They live in dread of not meeting her expectations. The slightest expression of sad disappointment from her is enough to cause them exquisite anguish. She's amazing.
I'm sure YOU back her up though when she has to discipline them, right? That's an important part of discipline. Parents need to agree and not fight about the discipline in front of their kids (who are masters at manipulation--smile). Sounds like you have a treasure therer.