Podcasts about tweens

Robert Finlay, author of Hey Dad, shares essential strategies on how parents can equip teens with crucial adulting skills, covering money management, networking, handling emergencies, and building independence.Full Show NotesDo your teens sometimes shock you with questions you assumed they already knew the answer to? Maybe they call in the middle of the night wondering how to fill gas in their car or whether they can use the mysterious "green gas." These “Hey Dad” (or "Hey Mom") calls are more than just amusing anecdotes—they highlight a gap we're all trying to fill as parents: how do we ensure our teenagers really understand the requirements of adulting before they leave the nest?Most parents worry whether they have properly prepared their kids for adulthood, for those surprising (and inevitable!) real-world circumstances. But with teens constantly occupied by schoolwork, sports, friends, and the digital world, how can we efficiently—and effectively—pass along the essential skills needed to confidently step into adulthood?Our guest this week, Rob Finlay, found himself pondering the same question after repeated "Hey Dad" calls from his four kids. Inspired by these moments—and a particularly memorable call from his daughter asking about gas options—Rob set out to gather the necessary knowledge teens needed. After collecting advice and insight from over 30 experts ranging from finance executives to medical specialists and seasoned first responders, Rob compiled Hey Dad: Everything You Should Have Learned About Life But Didn't, a hands-on guide to navigating early adulthood.In our conversation, Rob shares practical tips and hilarious stories to help parents bridge life-skill gaps with their teens. We discuss how to approach money management, prepare kids for career uncertainties, teach networking fundamentals and handle emergencies without panic, and ultimately shift those seemingly trivial late-night phone calls into moments that reflect growth and independence.The Power (and Peril) of Teen MoneyMany parents know the frustration of seeing their teen disregard financial advice, only to later scramble when reality hits. Rob stresses that simply "lecturing" teens about finances rarely sticks—instead, he recommends leveraging conversations about actual real-world consequences. Rob illustrates how introducing basic concepts with compelling scenarios can make money feel relevant to teens. Whether exploring the benefits of good credit scores or the hidden costs of overdrafts, making finances meaningful prepares teens better than abstract and dry instructions ever could.Rob also discusses the power of "compounding" beyond just a financial context, underscoring how even small, consistent actions build substantial results over time—not just in savings, but also in relationships, networking, and personal habits.Networking for Young AdultsEver heard your teen wishfully mention becoming a digital influencer or shrug off job opportunities because it doesn't align with their unclear plan for the future? Rob emphasizes the reality that connections matter profoundly when seeking employment opportunities. He encourages parents to expose teens to situations outside their peer groups and comfort zones—from attending family business dinners to encouraging brief informational interviews with professionals in fields of interest.Rob reminds us that teens are more respected and supported by adults than they realize. Teaching teens to leverage LinkedIn or encouraging them to reach out for career advice fosters self-confidence, creates diverse connections, and transforms the job market from a daunting challenge to a network-driven opportunity."Real World" Readiness and Handling EmergenciesEvery parent dreads the thought that their teen will one day encounter an emergency situation. But as Rob shares, there are essential skills every young adult should know, from handling first-aid emergencies all the way through troubleshooting car issues when stranded late at night.Incorporating expert insights from professional first responders, Rob advises parents on walking teens through emergency preparedness so they can remain calm and in control when it matters the most. After all, adulting skills also go beyond financial independence—they mean knowing how to stay calm when things inevitably don't go as planned.Embracing the JourneyAbove all, Rob emphasizes preparing teens not just for immediate independence but for flexible, resilient, lifelong growth. He illustrates how important it is for teens to accept uncertainty and potential failure not as setbacks, but as essential parts of the journey. By modeling and teaching these attitudes, Rob believes we can elevate those unforgettable phone calls from anxious dependency into mature, genuine moments of bonding and learning.In The Episode…Rob's insights offer practical solutions to parents seeking to empower their teens for real-world readiness. In addition to these core topics, we explore:Why it's essential to let teens fail (and why failure can be productive)How to help teens realize the real benefits behind college decisionsWays to shift from "giving answers" to mastering the art of guiding teens resourcefullyHow adulting skill-building can extend even to occupying oneself on a quiet night at homeRob Finlay's practical wisdom and instructive energy make this episode indispensable listening for every parent who wants to transform their teen's uncertainty into confident independence. The next time your teen calls around midnight, you'll not only know how to handle the call—you'll welcome the growth behind it. Tune in for more, and don't forget to subscribe!

Michelle Mitchell and Dani Vee chat about her new book TWEENS. They talk about this time being the most rapid period of development for a child, the difference between concrete and formal thinkers and how we can improve our connections with our tweens. They also chat about screen time, building positive relationships, mental illness and how we're all just trying our best to be the positive adults our kids need Michelle Mitchell is a bestselling author and speaker, sought after for her compassionate and grounded advice for parenting tweens and teens. LISTEN NOW!

As summer approaches, we thought it would be a great idea to revisit our episode on skincare. Remember to wear your sunscreen!! As social media trends continue to shape beauty routines, many parents are left wondering how much of the viral skincare advice flooding TikTok and Instagram is beneficial for their teens and tweens. With products promising “perfect” skin, it's easy for young people to get carried away in the excitement—but experts urge caution. Often, less is more. Adrienne speaks with Holly Morris, a board-certified physician assistant with more than 15 years of experience in dermatology and medical aesthetics, shares her expert advice on the viral trends and how tweens and teens can best take care of their skin. She also shares the products she recommends for kids struggling with acne, and what parents can use to help take care of their own skin, including dark spots and fine lines. As social media continues to influence beauty standards, Morris encourages parents to help their teens develop a realistic understanding of skincare. For parents looking to develop good skincare routines for their teens, Morris's advice is clear: keep it simple, stay consistent, and always consult a professional if needed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Description:Remember when summer felt easy? When a trip to the beach, a sticky ice cream cone, or a backyard sprinkler could make your kid's whole day?Yeah. That changes.In this episode of the Peaceful Home Podcast, we're getting honest about the heartbreak and whiplash of parenting tweens and teens through summer. You'll hear stories that will make you nod (and maybe cry), a breakdown of what's really going on in your child's brain and body, and why their pulling away isn't a rejection—it's part of their growth.If your kid suddenly wants nothing to do with your plans… if you're grieving the summers you thought you'd have… or if you feel like you're quietly disappearing while still holding everything together—this episode is for you.We talk about:Why your tween suddenly doesn't want to do any of the fun stuff you plannedWhat brain science tells us about this awkward, tender seasonThe grief of still doing everything and feeling invisibleWhy this stage feels so personal (even though it's not)How to shift the pressure and reimagine connectionThis episode is permission to stop chasing perfect summers—and start honoring the real one you're in.Because your child is still becoming.And so are you.Next week? We talk about what does work—how to build real connection this summer without losing your mind, your money, or your sense of self.Ready to dive in and don't want to wait for next weeks tips, join us inside Living CALM, the ultimate parenting resource to help you have more calm, connection and peace in your parenting journey with your 4th grader and beyond! ✨Join Living CALM Here! The best thing you can do for yourself and your kids is effectively regulate your nervous system. And a great place to start >> to wire the brain for gratitude. Research tells us that gratitude increases happiness and a peaceful mindset. Make the shift and watch how things in your life start to change. Sign up today! www.pamgodbois.com/gratitude

Community Educator Nathan LaChine and Therapist Karina StarkHart discuss their collaborative workbook, 'Internet Safety with Olivia and Friends,' which aims to educate preteens and their parents about online safety. They highlight the importance of proactive conversations, mutual learning, and building a relationship with your child rooted in support.    

Community Educator Nathan LaChine and Therapist Karina StarkHart discuss their collaborative workbook, 'Internet Safety with Olivia and Friends,' which aims to educate preteens and their parents about online safety. They highlight the importance of proactive conversations, mutual learning, and building a relationship with your child rooted in support.  

Send us a textDo you ever wonder why you get so reactive about what your tween or teen says or does? One minute, something they say doesn't bother you, and the next, you feel like you're about to lose it? What's going on with that?In today's episode, I'm joined by Shelly Robinson, a certified conscious parenting coach, the founder of Raising Yourself, and the creator of the Connected Kid Toolkit. Shelly is passionate about helping parents break generational cycles and build emotionally connected homes. With over half a million parents around the world engaging with her work, Shelly is transforming families one step at a time.Her work has been featured on platforms such as MindValley, GoZen, Raised Good, and Good News LA. Shelly has a wealth of wisdom to share, so I'm excited for you to hear her insights. You can find her resources at shellyrobinson.com.In This Episode, We Discuss:Shelly's personal story and what led her to become a conscious parenting coach and the founder of Raising Yourself.The concept of reparenting—what it really means and why it's such a vital process for today's parents.A three-prong approach to parenting that helps parents do deep inner work while raising their children and healing generational wounds.The importance of emotional regulation—why it starts with the parent, not the child, and how we can practice it in everyday situations.Where to find Shelly:Website: shellyrobinson.com.The Connected Kid Toolkit: https://www.shellyrobinson.com/parenting-tools/connected-kid-toolkit/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raising_yourself/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/raisingyourself/Support the showCheck out our Moms of Tweens and Teens Membership and Website HEREFind more encouragement, wisdom, and resources: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/momsoftweensandteens/ Join our Community HERE. Find awesome resources HERE. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momsoftweensandteens/ Sheryl also has an Inner Circle weekly Parenting Program with a community of like-minded moms, personal coaching, and tons of resources to equip and support you to love well, navigate the challenges and meet your tween and teen's unique needs during these pivotal years. Get on the waitlist to get all the details and to be the first to know when it opens! https://momsoftweensandteens.lpages.co/waiting-list-for-membership/

Christine Miles, author of What Is It Costing You Not to Listen?, teaches us how transformational listening can deepen connections with teenagers by hearing what's unsaid, asking the right questions, and creating life-changing conversations.Full Show NotesWe all think of ourselves as pretty good listeners, right? But consider this: 96% of us claim good listening skills, yet only 2% have ever had formal training in how to listen. As parents, teachers, or mentors of teenagers, we spend so much energy worrying about what we say in conversations—we want to give advice, teach life lessons, and help teens make the right decisions. But the truth is, we often completely overlook the real key to meaningful communication: our ability to listen deeply.Most of our listening approaches barely scratch the surface and simply skim the basic facts of a situation. However, teens rarely communicate straight to the heart of what's truly bothering them. A surface complaint or confrontation can disguise deeper emotional struggles. How can we move beyond mundane conversation and create more meaningful connections with the young people in our lives?Our guest Christine Miles, author of What Is It Costing You Not to Listen?, is a renowned listening expert and speaker, who has spent her life empowering people to tap into what she calls “transformational listening.” Christine's groundbreaking work has led her to teach listening workshops nationwide, helping families, educators, and corporate teams unlock deeper understanding, resolve problems, and build authentic connections through the power of listening better.In this thoughtful and eye-opening episode, Christine shares powerful insights from her personal story and her professional expertise to demonstrate exactly why listening is so crucial, and how developing listening skills will profoundly affect all aspects of our relationships with teens.Why Teens Need Transformational ListeningChristine introduces the idea of transformational listening, which goes beyond empathy and allows us to truly hear not only the words teens speak but also their underlying and often unspoken feelings. Transformational listening helps us understand each teenager's unique experience. Christine explains how listening provides teens a safe space to truly open up by guiding them to reveal parts of their story they may not even be aware of themselves.One major reason parents and teens experience poor communication is because teens rarely start at the beginning when they share their story. According to Christine, we usually get dropped right in the middle of a teenager's internal narrative, causing misunderstanding or confusion. Parents often mistakenly assume that teens don't want to talk or be open. Christine teaches us how to navigate conversations strategically to capture the whole story and not just surface details.How to Stop Getting in Your Own WayMost of us unconsciously interfere with our own listening ability, making typical mistakes like asking too many questions or imposing assumptions onto teens' stories. Christine helps us recognize and prevent these conversational pitfalls by sharing simple but incredibly effective techniques she calls the Listening Compass. We'll learn a small but powerful set of open-ended questions that invite teenagers to dive deeper without feeling interrogated or misunderstood.Christine also explains how to notice important non-verbal listening cues by paying attention to what teens aren't saying. Mastering this technique helps teens feel truly understood, even when they're struggling to articulate what's actually bothering them, allowing us to support or steer the conversation positively without forcing direct solutions on them prematurely.Discovering Your Teen's True StoryChristine emphasizes the incredible power of finding the "tipping point"—the moment in stories or conflicts when a decision or realization occurs and everything shifts. Often teenagers present us with a seemingly minor problem (like shoes or school struggles), but beneath the surface lies a complex mix of emotions or concerns teens don't even consciously realize. By engaging in transformational listening, parents can genuinely empower teens, helping them discover and navigate their emotional challenges and even reach deeper insight about their own decisions.Christine shares impactful stories and case examples, illustrating how parents and mentors using these listening practices earned trust and ultimately became part of life-changing turning points simply by listening in a new way.Taking Listening to Real LifeThe beauty of Christine's approach is that the tools she teaches can be practiced right away, leading to rapid and transformative results in relationships with teenagers. Christine shares moving real-life examples—not just from parenting, but from workplaces and friendships—where transformational listening has allowed meaningful conversations to flourish, deeper trust to build, and healthier emotional decision-making to happen.Christine explains why feelings do matter, even when societal messages often teach us to keep emotions separate from work or challenging situations. Her insights expand our emotional intelligence, improving not just our teen relationships but demonstrating how attentive listening benefits nearly every aspect of our public and private lives.In this powerful conversation, Christine provides clear steps and tools to start implementing transformational listening immediately, teaching us how to revolutionize the ways we communicate with and understand teens.In the Episode, we also discussWhy focusing on your response interferes with listening effectivelyHow emotional intelligence can matter more for teen success than academic gradesWhy saying “Don't get mad, but…” almost always backfiresHow listening skills can vastly improve communication in workplaces and schools as well as at homeIf you want to strengthen your connection with the teens in your life and genuinely help guide them towards growth and emotional maturity, don't miss this groundbreaking episode! And don't forget to subscribe for more insightful guests and inspiring strategies every week.

Independence, risk-taking, and peer pressure. Welcome to the teenage years with food allergies! Managing food allergies during the teen years poses new challenges. Tweens and teens are gaining independence, navigating social pressures, and taking more responsibility for their health. But this is also the stage where risky behavior peaks, and the risk for severe allergic reactions is highest. That's why clear communication and trust matter more than ever. In this episode of our Food Allergy Stages Series, Dr. Travis Miller joins Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta to unpack how food allergy management changes from ages 12 to 18. We talk about empowering teens through shared decision-making, building trust between parents and teens, and developing essential life skills like label reading, restaurant communication, and self-advocacy. We also dive into difficult topics like bullying, alcohol, and mental health. Finally, we address why emotional support is just as important as carrying an epinephrine auto-injector. What we cover in our episode about managing food allergies in teens: Why trust matters. Teens are more likely to follow allergy routines when they feel heard and involved. Empowering independence. From grocery shopping to reading labels, this is the age to start turning over the reins. Talking about risky behavior. Alcohol and dating can put teens with food allergies at higher risk. Bullying and boundaries. Learn how to spot signs of bullying and who can help your teen feel safe and supported. Mental health and identity. Food allergies can affect confidence. We share ways to support emotional wellness and self-esteem. Episode 5 in our “Food Allergies: Ages & Stages” series  Across six episodes, we explore how food allergies show up and shift through different phases of life, from introducing solids in infancy to navigating school and adapting in adulthood. We're here with evidence-based info, expert insights, and lived experience to guide you through it all. Episode 110: Early Allergen Introduction Episode 111: Food Allergy Basics for Newly Diagnosed Families Episode 112: Managing Food Allergies in Babies and Toddlers Episode 113: Managing Food Allergies in School-Age Children Thanks to Genentech and Aquestive for sponsoring this episode. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

In this episode of the Joyful Courage Podcast, I invite you to reflect with me on how our beliefs about our children can shape their behavior and our relationship with them. I revisit some key themes from past episodes and dive deeper into why it's so important to look inward. When we take the time to examine our own belief systems, we open the door to creating a more positive and empowering environment for our teens and tweens. I talk about the value of self-awareness, curiosity, and our own ongoing growth as parents. You'll hear practical ways to approach everyday parenting challenges—ways that come from seeing our kids as capable and resilient human beings. My hope is that this episode encourages you to explore your beliefs, shift your perspective, and find new ways to connect more meaningfully with your children. For more info and show notes, go to https://www.besproutable.com/podcasts/eps-480-power-of-examining-beliefs-we-hold-about-our-teens-and-tweens/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

AMDG. In a continuation of last week's episode, Lisa Popcak shares her advice for new homeschooling families, including what aspects of education matter most and what worked in her own family. “I had promised her… you will be 100% fine,” Lisa recalled. “And sure enough, she got recruited by her college… and got almost a full ride to be a pre-med student.”     Lisa reflects on her children leaving the home for college, navigating hard seasons in the home, liturgical living, and so much more.     Kolbecast episodes mentioned & relevant:  261 Flow & Connection through Learning, the first part of our conversation with Lisa Popcak  255 Family Life as Liturgy with Dr. Greg Popcak  131 It's All about Relationship with Danielle Bean  62 Due Diligence with Darren Jones of the Homeschool Legal Defense Association (HSLDA)  105 Not Just for Special Occasions  Related links:   CatholicHOM (Households on Mission)  CatholicCounselors.com  More2Life Radio & podcasts  Books by Dr. Greg & Lisa Popcak  Momfidence podcast  BeDADitudes podcast  Hold On to Your Kids: Why Parents Need to Matter More than Peers by Gordon Neufeld & Gabor Maté  Books by the Popcaks mentioned in this conversation:  Discovering God Together: The Catholic Guide to Raising Faithful Kids  Parenting Kids with Grace (birth to age 10)  Parenting Your Teens and Tweens with Grace  Once upon a Lifetime Podcast  Have questions or suggestions for future episodes or a story of your own experience that you'd like to share? We'd love to hear from you! Send your thoughts to podcast@kolbe.org and be a part of the Kolbecast odyssey.   We'd be grateful for your feedback! Please share your thoughts with us via this Kolbecast survey!  The Kolbecast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and most podcast apps. By leaving a rating and review in your podcast app of choice, you can help the Kolbecast reach more listeners. The Kolbecast is also on Kolbe's YouTube channel (audio only with subtitles).  Using the filters on our website, you can sort through the episodes to find just what you're looking for. However you listen, spread the word about the Kolbecast! 

Is your middle schooler or high schooler dealing with a so-called “friend” who's just… mean? You're not alone. Tweens and teens often struggle with toxic friendships, and it's tough for parents to know when to step in—and how. In this episode, Dr. Lisa & Reena help a parent navigate one of the most common challenges of adolescence: friendship drama. Learn how to coach your child through unhealthy peer dynamics, when to give advice (and when to hold back), and how to help teens build healthy, supportive relationships. ________________ “Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Parenting” is the essential podcast for parents seeking expert guidance, tested strategies, and psychological insights on raising kids, especially tweens and teens. Join renowned clinical psychologist Dr. Lisa Damour and former journalist and mom of two Reena Ninan as they explore real-life parenting challenges.  Looking to learn more about how to boost kids' resilience, build their confidence, or support their emotional well-being? Dr. Lisa and Reena have got you covered! Together they address listener questions about stress, anxiety, social media concerns, school pressures, and challenges in peer relationships. Each episode provides practical advice and science-backed solutions to help parents raise resilient, confident, and emotionally healthy kids. Tune in every week for the latest topics in parenting, child psychology, and family wellness. Get answers to your most pressing parenting questions. New episodes drop every Tuesday.  Check out our Ask Lisa Podcast Playlists. Binge specific topics like Raising Sons, Staying Connected to Your Teen: https://www.youtube.com/@asklisapodcast/playlists ________________ Episode Keywords: teen friendships, toxic friends, mean girl behavior, middle school drama, emotional resilience, parenting advice, peer pressure, social skills for teens, teen mental health Show Keywords: ask lisa podcast, dr lisa damour, reena ninan, psychology, parenting, podcast, teens, tweens, parenting teens, parenting tweens, teen parenting, tween parenting, parenting tips, parenting advice, positive parenting, parenting podcast, teen behavior, tween challenges, raising tweens, raising teens, parenting hacks, parenting help, family dynamics, kids podcast, mental health, teen mental health, attachment styles, emotional intelligence

Are you a grandparent navigating the tumultuous journey of raising tweens and teens in today's ever-evolving world? Do you feel the pressures of shaping young minds while contending with the modern challenges of social media and peer influence? Are you eager to empower your grandchildren with tools of resilience and independence? The task of providing guidance amidst this whirlwind can feel overwhelming, like steering a ship through an unexpected storm.I'm Laura Brazan, your host, who, much like you, found herself on this path unexpectedly, raising my two grandchildren while confronting the dynamics of modern youth culture. With insights from vibrant discussions with education experts like Barbara Mojica, who brings decades of experience to the table, this podcast is designed to equip you with the wisdom needed to raise confident, self-assured young adults.Welcome to 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity.' Here, we delve into authentic stories and expert advice, offering practical strategies to battle peer pressure and foster independence in our grandchildren. We'll discuss the importance of open communication, role-playing, and critical thinking to build strong self-esteem and individuality. Join us as we explore ways to ensure your grandchildren not only survive but thrive, all while providing a supportive community for you.Visit Barbara Ann's website for TONS of information including her online course, blog, books and more!Take this journey with us as we reSend us a textVisit our homepage link to be informed and stay updated on our Pliot Program partnership with EggMed, an international health and mental wellness software design company. Owner, Broker, and Realtor at Team Eureka with National Parks Realty Forbes Global Properties—Sandi Hall is a beacon of trust and insight for both local and international clients. With a Graduate REALTOR® Institute designation and a feature in Forbes, underscore her commitment to excellence.Visit WelcomeHomeMontana.com today or call (406) 471-0749 and experience the difference an expert like Sandi can bring to your journey home. Do you ever feel like you can never do enough? If this is you, you've got to listen to this fun self-care tip from Jeanette Yates!Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined. Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences. We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grgLiked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden Love the show? Leave a review and let us know! CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook

Anxiety in our teens and tweens is far too commonplace. Understanding how it happens and being able to spot the signs and symptoms is extremely important for parents.Parents often mistake anxiety symptoms for typical teen misbehavior. If you treat your teen's anxiety as something to be "disciplined" out of them, you will make their anxiety, your relationship, and their behavior so much worse.  Today's episode is the first in a series on teen anxiety so I'm starting with how it manifests and what to look for in your teen. Following episodes will include information about getting a proper diagnoses, treatment options for teen anxiety, how to manage their anxious behavior, and more. Show Notes for other resources and sourcesTranscriptFind our FREE Parenting Guides Here"I just wanted to let you know that I'm so thankful for your podcast! ...I'm so happy I discovered it!" Speaking of Teens Listener^If you feel the same way, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps people know the show is worth their time to listen. Tap here, to go to Apple podcasts, and scroll down until you see the STARS to tap on the last star, then tap on “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about the show. If you're listening in Spotify, you can also rate the show by going to the main episode page and tap the 3 dots to the right of the follow button, tap rate show and tap the 5th star!Thank you in advance for helping me help more parents!I drop new episodes every Tuesday and Friday so please tap Follow on the main episode page, so they'll be ready for you in your app.You can reach out to me with ideas for the show or guest suggestions here. Thanks so much for listening!Check out PARENT CAMP - a cohort-based, 10-week experience that includes a virtual course, in-depth exercises and tools, and weekly live meetings with Ann, where you will learn how to strengthen your relationship and decrease the conflict with your teens and tweens (while improving their behavior.)Connect with us on Facebook or Instagram Read Speaking of Teens weekly articles on Substack Join our Facebook Group for Free Support for Parents and others who care for Teens (and get easy access to all the parenting guides above!)See My Recommended Books For Both You And Your Teen

Is your middle schooler or high schooler dealing with a so-called “friend” who's just… mean? You're not alone. Tweens and teens often struggle with toxic friendships, and it's tough for parents to know when to step in—and how. In this episode, Dr. Lisa & Reena help a parent navigate one of the most common challenges of adolescence: friendship drama. Learn how to coach your child through unhealthy peer dynamics, when to give advice (and when to hold back), and how to help teens build healthy, supportive relationships. ________________ “Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Parenting” is the essential podcast for parents seeking expert guidance, tested strategies, and psychological insights on raising kids, especially tweens and teens. Join renowned clinical psychologist Dr. Lisa Damour and former journalist and mom of two Reena Ninan as they explore real-life parenting challenges.  Looking to learn more about how to boost kids' resilience, build their confidence, or support their emotional well-being? Dr. Lisa and Reena have got you covered! Together they address listener questions about stress, anxiety, social media concerns, school pressures, and challenges in peer relationships. Each episode provides practical advice and science-backed solutions to help parents raise resilient, confident, and emotionally healthy kids. Tune in every week for the latest topics in parenting, child psychology, and family wellness. Get answers to your most pressing parenting questions. New episodes drop every Tuesday.  Check out our Ask Lisa Podcast Playlists. Binge specific topics like Raising Sons, Staying Connected to Your Teen: https://www.youtube.com/@asklisapodcast/playlists ________________ Episode Keywords: teen friendships, toxic friends, mean girl behavior, middle school drama, emotional resilience, parenting advice, peer pressure, social skills for teens, teen mental health Show Keywords: ask lisa podcast, dr lisa damour, reena ninan, psychology, parenting, podcast, teens, tweens, parenting teens, parenting tweens, teen parenting, tween parenting, parenting tips, parenting advice, positive parenting, parenting podcast, teen behavior, tween challenges, raising tweens, raising teens, parenting hacks, parenting help, family dynamics, kids podcast, mental health, teen mental health, attachment styles, emotional intelligence

Is there anyone who's on the other side of middle school who loved it and wishes they could go back? It's just hard, and one of the toughest aspects can be navigating friendships, especially with girls.  Jessica Speer, award-winning author of several interactive books about middle school, joins us for this important conversation!   #podmatchjessicaspeer.comBFF or NRF  Jessica's bookMiddle School: Safety Goggles Advised

Richard Orbé-Austin, author of Your Child's Greatness, discusses imposter syndrome, perfectionism, boundaries, and how parents can empower teens to build true resilience and self-confidence.Full Show NotesAs parents, we want the best for our teenagers. We hope they'll be successful academically, thrive socially, and embrace the opportunities ahead. But lurking beneath the surface for many adolescents—and adults—is the pervasive doubt called imposter syndrome: the haunting fear of being revealed as a fraud, not belonging, or never being good enough. Surprisingly common, imposter syndrome can emerge quietly and lead our teens toward patterns of perfectionism, people-pleasing, anxiety, and even deeper stress.But how can parents recognize the signs of imposter feelings in their kids? And more importantly, how do we help teens develop the resilience, confidence, and realistic self-image that protect them against its harmful effects?To unravel these questions, we're joined by Dr. Richard Orbé-Austin, psychologist and co-author of Your Child's Greatness. An expert on imposter syndrome, Richard understands how these subtle feelings of doubt can sometimes quietly shape a person's identity, often beginning at a young age. He provides practical, down-to-earth strategies parents can use to nurture healthier mindsets in teens, helping them genuinely own their strengths while managing the anxieties involved in growth and change.Understanding Teen Imposter SyndromeRichard first helps us understand exactly what imposter syndrome means. Though not an official mental health disorder, "Imposter Syndrome" describes the chronic feeling that your success is undeserved or accidental, despite evidence to the contrary. As Richard explains, it often surfaces in perfectionist individuals who strive for an elusive, unrealistically perfect "ideal self" and become critical of their actual self. It's common among high-achievers, causing them to attribute their success to luck or external factors instead of their own abilities.In our discussion, he describes three common roles teens pick up early on—the "smart one," the "hardworking one," and the "survivor"—and how over-identifying with any one role can contribute to imposter feelings. He helps parents recognize subtle symptoms of these thoughts, like negative labeling, comparing themselves unfairly to others, and anxious attempts to predict future failure.Breaking Boundaries for True Self-WorthOne critical contributor to imposter syndrome, according to Richard, is a family environment lacking clear, healthy boundaries. Teenagers who grow up believing their sole purpose is pleasing their parents, coaches, or teachers often develop intense feelings of inadequacy, as they never feel truly good enough. They're likely to overwork, avoid conflict, and suppress their own emotional experiences.Richard emphasizes the importance of empowering teenagers with strong personal boundaries. We discuss how parents can foster open dialogues with their kids about emotional and interpersonal boundaries, especially in competitive environments like youth sports, debate, or other activities. By teaching teens to stand up for themselves and express their needs, parents help them build independence, resilience, and authentic self-esteem.Tackling Perfectionism Through Growth MindsetsPerfectionism and imposter syndrome go hand-in-hand, as teens may see mistakes and failures as signs of inadequacy rather than natural parts of learning and growth. Richard shares meaningful ways to help adolescents redefine success and embrace the process of incremental improvement.We explore strategies for shifting teens from a rigid, achievement-focused perspective to a more flexible, growth-oriented one. For instance, Richard describes how reframing poor grades or performance anxiety as opportunities to learn, not signals of failure, can reduce teens' fear of taking healthy risks. He also discusses how parents' language around mistakes, success, and failure profoundly shapes their kids' attitudes toward personal growth.Parent Imposter Syndrome—Yours Counts Too!Interestingly, Richard notes that imposter syndrome doesn't stop with teens. Many parents also struggle with their own "idealized" parenting role and feelings of inadequacy around parenting decisions, mistakes, or imperfection. Parents who struggle with their own imposter thoughts can unintentionally pass down that sense of self-doubt to their children.Throughout our conversation, Richard provides affirming reassurance for parents facing these challenges. He stresses that no parent is perfect, that mistakes are inevitable, and that a willingness to form deeper self-awareness and gentler inner dialogue helps parents model genuine confidence for their teens. Being open about our own experiences with imposter syndrome and showing teens we too have growing to do can create healthier mindsets within the whole family.In the Episode….This impactful conversation with Richard is full of thoughtful, practical tips parents can put into practice immediately. On top of the topics discussed above, we also cover:Signs your teen is developing performance anxietyWays to challenge automatic negative thoughts ("ANTs")Differences between ideal and actual selves—and why they matterHow social anxiety or school bullying can fuel imposter syndromeStrategies to reduce people-pleasing tendencies and conflict avoidance If you'd like to learn more from Richard, check out his book, Your Child's Greatness, available now from major booksellers and independent bookstores. Thanks for listening! Don't forget to share and subscribe, and we'll see you next week.

Diet culture loves to tell parents exactly how to and how not to feed their kids. What happens often is well-intentioned parents abandon their parenting style(s) and find themselves swinging on a pendulum between permissive feeding practices and urging their kids to “take 3 more bites, or no dessert”! In this latest podcast episode, Anna and I explain how feeding is parenting, how diet-culture creates misalignment, and simple shifts you can make to create calm mealtimes.Takeaways* Consistency is key: Kids do well when the support and boundaries they experience at bedtime and homework time are also part of mealtimes.* Authoritative feeding vs. short order cooking — Learn how you can shift away from short order cooking. * Learning doesn't happen all at once- Gradually give tweens and teens planning, prepping, and packing instead of handing over all the responsibilities all at once. * Notice the mismatch — If your food rules feel more harsh, or you find you've abandoned any structure, that may be a clue to experiment with a small shift toward a more supportive parenting style. Resources & Links* Take the Frenzy Out of Feeding – Our 12-module membership that walks you through stress-free family feeding step-by-step.* Instagram – DM us your questions: @sunnysideupnutritionists* Email the show: hello@sunnysideupnutrition.comFull TranscriptElizabeth:Welcome to Sunny Side Up Nutrition a podcast created by three moms striving to bring you evidence-based information to help support you and the children in your life. Your hosts are Anna Lutz and me Elizabeth Davenport, both registered dietitians, and Anna Mackay, a dietitian-to-be and certified personal trainer. Anna Lutz co-owns Lutz, Alexander & Associates Nutrition Therapy in Raleigh, North Carolina, and I co-own Pinney Davenport Nutrition in the D.C. metro area. Anna Mackay is in the process of completing her dietetic internship. Just a note that this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Thanks for being here.Elizabeth: Hi, Anna. It's so exciting to be here again recording our now third episode back into podcasting.Anna:Yeah.Elizabeth: So, today we are going to talk about what we mean when we say feeding is parenting. It's easy to think of mealtime struggles as separate from how we parent, but the truth is they're very interconnected. Diet culture often pulls us out of alignment with the kind of parents we want to be, so today Anna and I are going to chat about how to identify what's working, what's not, and what small shifts you can make to reduce the stress around feeding as parenting.Anna: Absolutely—that was great!Anna:One of the things we say a lot is feeding is parenting. So let's unpack that, because listeners may be thinking, what in the world are you talking about? We can also share examples of how diet culture interferes in parenting.Anna:In the introduction you said it so well: the messages parents get about how to feed children can push us to feed in a way that's completely different from the style of parenting we use for everything else. Someone who's normally supportive and structured—bedtime, homework, learning new skills—might suddenly feed in an authoritarian way because diet culture is very good/bad, right/wrong. That misalignment creates anxiety.Elizabeth:Yes! The parent might wonder, Wait, this isn't what I believe—why am I doing this around food? And all the online feeding advice may not align with how they actually parent, so they're left questioning whether they're doing a good job. It's a lot to navigate.Anna:Exactly. For example, telling a child, “You must eat all your broccoli before dessert.” That's an authoritarian rule. Yet in other areas this same parent may be collaborative and supportive—like helping a shy child ease into a birthday party instead of forcing them inside. If we step back and apply that supportive style to food, we'd offer the broccoli, let the child decide to smell it, taste it, or not, and trust that over time they'll learn to eat it without the hammer coming down.Elizabeth:Makes total sense. Listeners, send us questions if anything feels unclear! Another place diet culture collides with parenting is the pressure to give tweens and teens full responsibility for their food—packing lunches, making dinner—without any structure. Kids are still growing and busy; they need scaffolding.Tweens, Teens, and ScaffoldingAnna:Feeding oneself is a developmental task. We want kids to leave home able to feed themselves well, but we can't yank away all support in fifth or sixth grade. Instead we build autonomy gradually:* Elementary: You plate the snack, or give two choices.* Middle school: They prepare the snack; you nudge balance (“grab a fruit with that granola bar”).* High school: They pack their own food, but you ask, “What's your plan for snack before soccer?” and check that they actually have one.Elizabeth: And every child develops at their own pace. Some high-school seniors still benefit from a packed lunch. I make my senior's lunch because her schedule is packed. She sees what I pack, makes her own lunches on weekends, and will be fine in college.Anna: Exactly. Bottom line: “no lunch” isn't an option. If the parent truly can't help in the morning, brainstorm a Plan B—school lunch, or pre-packed foods like Uncrustables, chips, fruit, yogurt—so a balanced meal is always there.Short-Order Cooking & Parenting StylesElizabeth: Another common pitfall is short-order cooking—making a separate meal when a child refuses dinner.Anna: Right. That's permissive feeding. The child misses exposure to new foods and struggles later at a friend's house or the college dining hall.Anna:Think of the parenting-style continuum:* Authoritarian: “Clean your plate or no dessert.”* Permissive: “Fine, I'll make mac & cheese instead.”* Authoritative (goal): Structure and flexibility—serve one family meal with at least one familiar food, no pressure to clean plates.Ask yourself: Where am I now? What small step nudges me toward authoritative? Maybe you stop short-order cooking by ensuring a preferred side dish is on the table; over time you can phase that backup out.Elizabeth: And sometimes you will make the alternate meal—life happens—just aim for the overall pattern to support skill-building.Wrapping UpAnna: Notice any misalignment between your overall parenting style and feeding approach, then take one small step toward alignment. We'd love your questions—DM us on Instagram, comment on Substack, or email hello@sunnysideupnutrition.com.Elizabeth: Thanks for listening, and until next time!Anna: Bye.Anna: Thank you for listening. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate it and write us a review wherever you listen. Go to Sunny Side Up Nutrition Podcast in your podcast app and scroll down to the stars. Also, we'd love for you to join our 12-module membership Take the Frenzy Out of Feeding. Visit sunnysideupnutrition.com and look for the Membership tab to join today. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit snutrition.substack.com

Dr. Sheilagh Maguiness joins host Dr. Bracho-Sanchez to discuss the latest skincare craze among tweens and teens. She provides tips for safe skincare routines, products that should be avoided, choosing the right sunscreen, and common allergens in popular skincare products. For resources go to healthychildren.org/podcast. 

Is your tween's skincare routine doing more harm than good? With the tween skincare market projected to hit $9.5 billion by 2026, the rapid rise of skincare for kids has raised concerns about safety, misinformation, and social media influence.Welcome to Skin to It, the podcast where dermatologist Dr. Sandy Skotnicki and beauty enthusiast Marlo Sutton break down everything you need to know about healthy skin. In this episode, we deep dive into the essentials of safe skincare for tweens. From the best skincare routine for tweens to understanding the risks of certain ingredients, this discussion helps parents navigate an industry increasingly targeting younger consumers.What You'll Learn in This Episode:Understanding Tween Skin- Why tween skin is more delicate and requires age-appropriate care- The risks of active ingredients like retinol, AHAs, and Vitamin C for young skin- How to build a simple, safe, and effective skincare routine- The best cleanser for tweens, best face wash for tweens, and best moisturizer for tweensNavigating the Tween Skincare Market- How the growing skincare for tweens industry impacts product development- Why natural skincare for tweens and non-toxic skincare for tweens are gaining popularity- How to identify safe skincare ingredients and avoid unnecessary products- The importance of sunscreen for tweens and daily protection from UV exposureSocial Media and Skincare Trends- The role of TikTok skincare trends, skincare influencers, and skinfluencers- How viral beauty trends impact tween skincare habits- Strategies for helping kids critically evaluate online skincare adviceFostering Healthy Skin HabitsTeaching kids the value of consistency over excessive productsHow to manage acne in tweens without disrupting the skin barrierThe risks of using adult skincare products on younger, more sensitive skinExpert Advice from Dr. Skotnicki- Understanding skincare industry trends and their impact on young consumers- The growing conversation around global legislative changes for child skincare products- Why Sweden has banned certain active ingredients for children under 15- The potential implications of California's proposed ban on retinol and AHAs for kidsMany parents wonder, is hyaluronic acid safe for tweens? What are the real risks of overloading young skin with skincare products? This episode provides the facts you need to make informed decisions about your child's skincare Every Thursday on Skin to It, dermatologist Dr. Sandy Skotnicki and beauty enthusiast Marlo Sutton guide you through the maze of skincare, cutting through the noise to help you achieve your healthiest skin. Subscribe to ensure you never miss out on our skincare wisdom!Love our podcast? Tell us what you love about the show to help others discover it too, by sharing your review.Skin to It is a skincare podcast brought to you by Bioderma.For more information about Skin to It, visit skintoitpodcast.com.Follow us on social media at Dr. Sandy Skotnicki and Marlo Sutton.

Ethan Kross, author of Shift: Managing Your Emotions So They Don't Manage You, explains how teens and parents can become adept at emotional regulation, manage upsetting feelings effectively, and develop healthier responses to life's challenges.Full Show NotesEmotional regulation—the ability to manage and shift our feelings—has huge implications for everyone, especially teenagers. It's a life skill that might just make the difference between thriving or struggling in adulthood. Teens understandably grapple with heightened emotions and can sometimes feel controlled by them rather than the other way around. But what if we could teach them how to manage their emotions and build resilience early on?The effects of emotional dysregulation can be major: kids who struggle with this skill are more likely to face substance abuse, school dropout, and even criminal behavior as they grow older. Meanwhile, teens who are skilled at managing their emotional states tend to excel academically, professionally, and have healthier relationships overall. The good news is that emotion regulation is a learnable and teachable skill, with far-reaching positive effects if mastered during adolescence.In this episode, we're joined once again by Ethan Kross, award-winning professor, renowned researcher, and author of the new book Shift: Managing Your Emotions So They Don't Manage You. Ethan has dedicated his career to unpacking the mystery of our emotional worlds, blending cutting-edge research with practical, actionable insights. As both a scientist and a parent of a teen himself, Ethan understands deeply how crucial it is to arm our kids (and ourselves!) with simple yet powerful emotional regulation strategies.In our conversation, Ethan shares eye-opening findings, common misconceptions, and accessible, effective tools for parents who want to raise emotionally intelligent and resilient teenagers.Why Emotional Regulation Matters for TeensEmotion impacts every aspect of a teen's daily life—friendships, schoolwork, athletics, and family relationships. Despite its importance, emotional skills are often overlooked, leaving kids unequipped to manage powerful feelings. Ethan reveals eye-opening research, from classic experiments to recent ground-breaking studies, that clearly connect teens' successes and setbacks later in life to how well they can manage their emotional states.Ethan emphasizes that there are no "bad" emotions—anger, sadness, anxiety all serve valuable evolutionary purposes. Rather than suppressing these feelings, Ethan offers strategies to help teens learn to tune into their emotions without becoming overwhelmed by them. He also tackles the "myth of universal approach," noting that always facing or always avoiding tough feelings isn't the right solution—teens must learn flexibility instead.Teaching Teens Practical Ways to Shift Their EmotionsSo how can parents and educators tangibly equip teens with emotional regulation skills? Ethan shares practical interventions from research that really work. For example, understanding how our surroundings influence our emotional states empowers teens to strategically modify their spaces to feel less anxious or stressed. Ethan discusses how teens can make small changes, like placing items or images in their environment that effectively boost their mood and sense of calm.He also explains broader methods, like the proven WOOP framework (Wish, Outcome, Obstacle, and Plan). WOOP is essentially an easy-to-use reference for teens (and adults) when emotions inevitably flare up. Ethan breaks down how parents can talk teens through this process, helping them clearly define how they want to act during difficult times—rather than becoming reactive or impulsive.Subtle (and Powerful) Ways to Help TeensSometimes offering too much direct help can backfire, causing teens to feel disempowered or defensive. Ethan reveals research that shows invisible support—the kind teens don't realize you're giving—can play a huge role in helping them build regulation skills. He's sharing small shifts, like subtly introducing conversations around emotional techniques or quietly removing stressors in the family routine, that greatly improve teens' emotional balance and confidence.We also dive deep into how teens can use sensory influences like music and smells to modify their emotions deliberately, and the importance of shifting self-talk—from a self-focused, blaming style to one that feels more empathetic and empowering.In the Episode...Ethan's extensive knowledge and relatable advice offer invaluable guidance for parents hoping to raise emotionally resilient kids. In addition to the topics above, we also discuss:How to help teens view intense emotions as temporary and manageableThe specific connection between pronouns and processing breakupsWhy avoidance can sometimes be a surprisingly helpful strategyHow shifting language perspective (like using your own name when talking to yourself) can rapidly lower distressDon't miss this enlightening conversation with Ethan Kross, where science meets practical parenting strategies. Check out his latest book Shift: Managing Your Emotions So They Don't Manage You and explore more at ethankross.com. Thanks for listening—make sure you share and subscribe!

What do the teens of 2025 really need to grow and thrive? How is being a teen NOW different from “back in the day”? In this heartful and eye-opening episode of the Heartful Parent Podcast, I have the pleasure of sitting down with education leader and founder of Many Roads, Will Kirsop, for a thought-provoking conversation all about teens and tweens.  Will shares why traditional academics often fall short in teaching essential life skills like empathy, active listening, and resilience—and how these very skills are key to helping our kids navigate an increasingly complex world. From the pressures of social media to the uncertainty of AI and job markets, today's teens are facing challenges that most of us never had to. Will and I also dig into the importance of self-compassion as a foundation for resilience and growth. He offers tangible strategies for parents who want to support their teens with intention and purpose. Even if your kiddos are not *quite* teens yet, there are nuggets of wisdom for all parents in this episode. Listen and share! Reach out for support too, whether it's support for your teen or support for yourself--you are not meant to do this alone! Resources: manyroads.co Follow Christy @theheartfulparent | Join the Heartful Parent Academy with code PODCAST

Mike Matheny, author of The Dad Coach, reveals how parents and coaches can teach character through youth sports, handle competitive pressures, and create a positive athletic environment.Full Show NotesYouth sports can be a minefield for parents and kids alike. With intense competition and mounting pressure to excel, it's easy to lose sight of what truly matters—the development of character traits that will set our teens up for lifelong success. So how do parents, coaches, and mentors ensure their teen athletes reap the full benefits of sports without becoming overwhelmed?This week, Mike Matheny joins us to share clear, impactful wisdom on harnessing youth sports as a tool for shaping teens into better people. Mike is a former MLB catcher, a four-time MLB gold glove winner, and has managed both the St. Louis Cardinals and Kansas City Royals. Mike is also a New York Times bestselling author known for his acclaimed book The Matheny Manifesto and now returns with his latest work, The Dad Coach, a practical guide for parents and coaches of young athletes.In this episode, we're exploring Mike's powerful insights on cultivating character through sports, adopting the right competitive mindset, and creating practices that engage and inspire young athletes. Mike reveals how sports, approached thoughtfully, can significantly improve teens' confidence, resilience, work ethic, and interpersonal skills.Competitive Edges: Building Inner StrengthMike views sports as a rich training ground for building crucial character traits, which he identifies as "Competitive Edges." These include grit, discipline, growth mindset, optimism, selflessness, and composure under pressure. He explains these edges not only help kids become better athletes but prepare them to thrive in academics, careers, and relationships. Mike emphasizes that these traits are controllable factors anyone can develop, regardless of natural talent.We discuss how parents and coaches can intentionally incorporate these Competitive Edges into daily interactions with teens. Mike outlines how to talk with teens about handling setbacks, sustaining focus, and showing up consistently with a positive, selfless attitude. He argues the most transformative sports experiences aren't defined by trophies or titles, but by the internal growth that sustained effort naturally creates.Planning Impactful Youth PracticesMike deeply believes every practice should empower kids and reinforce positive values—not just drill technical skills. He shares practical tips for planning engaging practices, including how to structure sessions to maximize learning, fuel enthusiasm, and build fundamental skills. Mike argues youth practices should prioritize constant involvement, curiosity, and teamwork to keep players invested and excited about the game.He explains the importance of explicitly incorporating character lessons into each practice. By setting aside a small amount of time to discuss values like humility, perseverance, or empathy, coaches can drive home powerful lessons that resonate throughout players' lives. Mike strongly advocates for a clear, shared culture within every youth team, shaped by coaches, parents, and player input.Navigating Pressure from ParentsMany coaches and parent-volunteers face the tricky issue of intense parental pressure. Mike provides guidance on handling rising expectations, parental demands, and the so-called "hovering" parents whose behaviors can discourage athletes or affect team dynamics. He emphasizes open but upfront communication about roles and expectations to set healthy boundaries. Mike also talks us through practical strategies parents can use at home—like regular backyard games, casual conversations, and unconditional support—which make a huge, positive difference.Mike's thoughtful, practical advice will empower anyone involved in youth sports to make athletics a more rewarding, character-building experience for teens—and themselves!In the Episode:Mike offers invaluable guidance on transforming sports into a platform for growth and character development. We also discuss:How to help teens develop true passions, not just follow trendsThe balance between multi-sport play and focusing on a single sportKeys to handling internal team conflict and fostering cooperationA fresh approach to pre-game motivation that builds lasting confidenceMike's inspiration behind donating all proceeds from The Dad Coach to a unique sporting initiative in the Dominican RepublicTo learn more about Mike Matheny's inspiring coaching approach, pick up a copy of The Dad Coach wherever books are sold. Thanks for listening! Don't forget to share and subscribe, and we'll see you next week.

Disney with Teens Find us on Youtube - please like and subscribe!  Looking to plan a Disney World or Disneyland vacation? Let Joe do all the hard work for you, helping you get the best discount, at no cost to you as your travel agent. Get started by e-mailing josephcheung@travelmation.net today!  Episode Description We continue our Walt Disney World by age series with those pesky adolescents, tweens and teens! We discuss where to stay and what to do as usual but also chat a bit about what it looks like to have more independent human beings with you at Walt Disney World - what can you consider letting your more independent children do? How do you keep them connected to the magic? All that and more! What do you do with teens and tweens at Walt Disney World? Let us know by e-mailing disneydeciphered AT gmail DOT com, messaging us on social media, or leaving a comment on our Youtube page. You can also follow us on Instagram! Episode Notes (all timestamps are approximate) 2:32 - Where to stay 7:03 - What to eat 11:41 - Do it for the gram 12:49 - Rides! 15:43 - Teen independence 20:36 - Lightning lane strategy 22:01 - Non ride stuff and tips for tweens and tweens 26:42 - Disney dos and don'ts If we've helped you to plan your trip and you'd like to thank us we'd appreciate you considering a one time donation. Or if you'd like to receive bonus content, check out our Patreon page and our special subscriber only content! You can also support the show by buying tickets (if they're the best deal, of course) using our Undercover Tourist link or signing up for Mouse Dining through our link. If you like what you hear, please share and subscribe! Find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, TuneIn, PlayerFM, iHeartRadio, or Google Podcasts (please leave a positive review if you're enjoying the show), like our Facebook page, or follow us on Bluesky and Instagram! Connect with Leslie @TripsWithTykes on social media and Joe @asthejoeflies.  

Send us a textDid you know that the ages between 6 and 12 are often referred to as ‘the forgotten years'? In reality, these years are some of the most crucial in shaping our kids' mental health and development. In this episode, I'm thrilled to welcome Dr. Sheryl Ziegler back to the show to share insights from her upcoming book, The Crucial Years: The Essential Guide to Mental Health and Modern Puberty in Middle Childhood.Dr. Ziegler is a seasoned clinical psychologist, play therapist, podcast host, and author with over 20 years of experience. She has appeared as a mental health expert on major platforms, including The Today Show, The Doctors, and CNN, offering invaluable guidance to parents everywhere.In today's conversation, we dive deep into the overlooked but essential years of middle childhood, exploring why these years between 6 and 12 are so foundational for kids' mental health. We also discuss the impact of early puberty, modern challenges, and the growing pressures kids face in today's digital world. Dr. Ziegler shares practical advice for parents on how to support their child's mental health, resilience, and self-esteem during this transformative time.Where to find Dr. Sheryl Ziegler:Website: https://drsherylziegler.com/Her book - The Crucial Years: The Essential Guide to Mental Health and Modern Puberty in Middle Childhood (Ages 6-12): https://amzn.to/4iADtVMSupport the showCheck out our Moms of Tweens and Teens Membership and Website HEREFind more encouragement, wisdom, and resources: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/momsoftweensandteens/ Join our Community HERE. Find awesome resources HERE. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momsoftweensandteens/ Sheryl also has an Inner Circle weekly Parenting Program with a community of like-minded moms, personal coaching, and tons of resources to equip and support you to love well, navigate the challenges and meet your tween and teen's unique needs during these pivotal years. Get on the waitlist to get all the details and to be the first to know when it opens! https://momsoftweensandteens.lpages.co/waiting-list-for-membership/

Nicole Karlis, author of Your Brain on Altruism, discusses the neuroscience behind altruism, revealing how acts of kindness impact teen brains, mental health, resilience, and lasting happiness.Full Show NotesAs parents, we hope our teenagers grow up to be kind, caring, and community-oriented adults. We encourage them to volunteer, assist neighbors, or participate in community service projects, hoping it'll build character and strengthen empathy. But did you know there's actual science linking altruism to improved well-being, reduced stress, and even better health? What if building compassion wasn't just a nice extra—but a powerful tool for coping with stress, fostering mental health, and developing meaningful relationships?Many teens face abundant pressures: academic expectations, college applications, social anxieties, and now the unprecedented rise of loneliness and technology overload. With these challenges mounting, could altruism offer a unique and surprisingly effective antidote—not just helping teens survive but thrive in today's world?In this week's insightful conversation, we're joined by Nicole Karlis, health and science journalist and author of Your Brain on Altruism: The Power of Connection and Community During Times of Crisis. Nicole spent nearly a decade exploring the science behind altruism, kindness, and community connection. She specializes in translating compelling neuroscience into practical lessons we can apply right at home with our teens.Nicole reveals the neuroscience underpinning the benefits of altruism, describing how selfless actions activate brain regions responsible for stress relief, emotional regulation, and meaningful fulfillment. By cultivating altruistic behaviors, Nicole argues, teens can overcome feelings of isolation and connect meaningfully with their communities—even during a loneliness epidemic.In our conversation, Nicole sheds light on why altruism is so powerful and how parents can harness and revive this instinct in their teens to create their own "culture of caring."The Neuroscience of AltruismIt turns out our brains are wired to benefit from kindness. Nicole outlines research showing that acts of generosity, kindness, and compassion trigger neural pathways linked to reward and decreased stress. Teens who practice altruism report feeling more deeply connected to others and their community, experiencing higher executive functioning, and enjoying mental health benefits.Creating regular acts of kindness, Nicole explains, can physically change the structure of teen brains due to neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to reorganize and strengthen beneficial pathways. Over time, practicing altruism can become habitual—ultimately shaping teens into compassionate adults who experience less stress and improved overall health.This powerful link raises the important question: how can parents best encourage altruism, especially today when teens are so busy and pressure-laden?Cultivating Kindness Without CrisisEver notice how, after a crisis, communities come together in uniquely powerful ways? Nicole describes this phenomenon—called bounded solidarity—in regions recovering from natural disasters where neighbors join forces to help one another through difficult times. But eventually the solidarity fades. Nicole wondered if communities could maintain this spirit without needing a tragic catalyst.In the episode, Nicole shares inspiring stories from teens who joined together after devastating wildfires. Remarkably, their initial impulse turned into a long-term community service nonprofit that raised spirits and built lasting bonds for everyone involved. She reveals that challenges and crises aren't necessary prerequisites. Families and communities can foster sustained altruism—cultivating solidarity simply through commitment and deliberate intention.Nicole offers practical methods families can use to cultivate caring cultures, from volunteering vacations to meaningful weekend rituals. She explains why clustering multiple kindness actions on special days—rather than making kindness a daily chore—helps compassion become a joyful, healthy habit.Why Intent Matters MostTeenagers often feel pressure to volunteer to pad college applications—checking off boxes without truly feeling connected to their service activities. But Nicole emphasizes the critical role intention plays: altruism is dramatically more beneficial if teens authentically embrace their volunteering choices.When teens genuinely want to make a difference, altruism deepens their empathy, nurtures authentic relationships, and provides real mental health benefits. Finding activities that align with your teen's natural interests enables them to genuinely experience joy and authentic connection while doing good. Nicole highlights examples, from playing bingo at senior homes to fun volunteer projects during family trips, that deeply resonate with teenagers and leave lifelong positive impacts.In the Episode…Nicole shares eye-opening insights about kindness, altruism, and their remarkable effects on teenagers. On top of the above, we discuss:How kindness helps teens counter lonelinessTechniques for fostering kindness in kids and teensDecoding the bodily impacts of isolation and lonelinessThe power of awe when witnessing acts of altruismHow volunteering boosts teens' confidence, connections, and resumesThis meaningful conversation with Nicole Karlis will forever shift how you view compassion—revealing how cultivating altruism in teenagers profoundly strengthens their brains, supports emotional resilience, and helps them thrive throughout adolescence and beyond.If you enjoyed this episode, you can find more from Nicole at Salon.com or connect with her on Instagram @NicoleKarlis. Thanks for listening! Don't forget to share, subscribe, and tune in next week for more critical teen parenting insights.

Jessica Slice, author of Unfit Parent, shares her profound insights and experiences on disability and parenting, breaking down stereotypes, addressing ableism, and showing what disabled parents can teach us all about resilience, adaptability, and embracing life's challenges.Full Show NotesIn our conversations around parenting, we often have a narrow definition of what abilities and physical capacities are required to be a “good” parent. From movies and advertisements portraying mothers and fathers effortlessly multitasking and holding toddlers on their hip, to parenting talks describing the chaos of carpool lines and daily errands, the portrait of parenting we encounter every day seems to leave out those with disabilities or physical limitations. As a parent, what do you do when your experiences don't match up with these cultural representations? How can each of us benefit from broadening our understanding of what it truly means to be an effective caregiver?In today's insightful episode, we're joined by writer and disability advocate Jessica Slice, author of Unfit Parent: A Disabled Mother Challenges an Inaccessible World. Jessica became disabled at age 28 and has experienced firsthand how our cultural perceptions about motherhood often exclude people with disabilities. Through her writing and advocacy, she passionately argues that disabled parents have powerful insights to offer all parents, and she exposes the ableism and biases in parenting culture. Jessica's eye-opening perspectives invite us to consider how embracing a broader definition of parenting can benefit everyone.What Disabled Parents Can Teach All of UsEarly in our conversation, Jessica describes how attending a typical parenting talk left her feeling like an imposter because none of the descriptions matched her own parenting reality. In writing openly about her experience, Jessica discovered a community of disabled parents who shared similar feelings. But what began as a revealing essay soon transformed into a broader mission: to show how disabled parents actually contribute unique abilities and insights to parenting.Jessica points out how disabled people grow adept at solving practical day-to-day problems surrounding movement, food, rest, and more. Such problem-solving skills translate directly into caring for a newborn, making disabled parents often surprisingly adept at navigating early parenthood. Moreover, disabled parents have already learned powerful lessons in letting go of expectations, embracing uncertainty, and adapting to changing circumstances—qualities that deeply serve all parents as they navigate the complexities of raising children.Ableism and Our Culture of Fear Around DisabilityJessica thoughtfully unpacks ableism: the deep-seated, often unconscious biases and fears that lead society to view disability through a lens of pity or disdain. She explores how ableism shapes everything from medical care to reproductive rights—and even the way parenting itself is structured and evaluated.One of the episode's most fascinating discussions focuses on Jessica's research around early transitions into parenthood for non-disabled families versus disabled families. Remarkably, Jessica discovered that disabled parents tend to adjust far more easily and report fewer incidences of postpartum depression—despite often facing greater physical health challenges. She explains how our cultural fear of disability makes this early period harder for non-disabled parents: society conditions us to dread having bodies that are weak, fragile, or dependent on others. Disabled parents, meanwhile, have already accepted and adapted to these realities, making the transition less shocking and chaotic.Overcoming Barriers in Parenting SystemsThroughout our interview, Jessica candidly describes how social systems and institutions—from reproductive health practices to the foster care system—are often ill-equipped for disabled people. She discusses the enormous challenges and fears disabled parents face when navigating the foster adoption process, including inaccessible mandatory classes and intense scrutiny about physical fitness to parent. Despite these obstacles, Jessica demonstrates the incredible resourcefulness and creativity that disabled parents show in developing customized solutions for caring for their families.Jessica's story about becoming a parent through fostering and surrogacy illustrates poignantly both the systemic barriers disabled people face and their impressive capacity to advocate for themselves, adapt, and thrive. She insists that disabled parents' lives are not tragedies to be pitied; instead, they exemplify adaptability, patience, and the courage to embrace life's unpredictability.In the Episode…Beyond these deeply insightful conversations, our discussion with Jessica covers much more, including:How Jessica's disability shifted her perspective from striving and achievement to genuine contentmentThe critical importance of accessible and inclusive sexual education for disabled teensThe ongoing practice of invention and creativity disabled parents rely on to accomplish everyday caregiving tasksThe connection between productivity, capitalism, and society's attitudes toward disability and human worthJessica challenges and expands our cultural notion of what it truly means to be a capable, loving, and effective parent. Her journey offers invaluable lessons, not only for the disabled community, but for parents everywhere. Join us for an illuminating conversation you won't want to miss—and don't forget to subscribe to Talking to Teens!

The history of the Holocaust is difficult to learn, difficult to grasp, and difficult to teach. But – to prevent it from happening again – it is history that demands our examination! Join Linda Lacour Hobar, author of The Mystery of History, for a pensive look at the Holocaust and what teens and tweens should know about it. Part 1 of this two-part podcast touched on Hitler's evil ideology and politics (please don't miss that important background!) Part 2, this podcast, will cover the horrendous repercussions of Hitler's ideas, as well as the bravery of those who stood against it. Let us learn what NOT to repeat in history! (This podcast may not be appropriate for young or sensitive students.)

Buckle up. In this episode, we get real about what it's like to raise kids between the ages of 10 to 18 in a world that looks nothing like the one we grew up in. From the emotional rollercoaster of middle school years to navigating social media, anxiety, and the constant pressure to be “on,” we break down the mental load parents are carrying—and what actually helps. Spoiler: It's not control, and it's definitely not panic.Join us as we unpack what long-leash parenting really looks like, why emotional regulation (yours and theirs) is key, and how to create that solid, secure attachment your kids need—without micromanaging them into dysfunction. Whether you're dealing with defiance, withdrawal, or just trying to keep your cool through the chaos, this episode will leave you feeling seen, supported, and maybe even a little more sane. Episode Highlights:[0:03] - Why parenting tweens and teens feels harder than ever. [1:43] - Understanding adolescent brain development and modern challenges. [4:35] - Colette shares her anxious “blue dot” tracking phase and why it's so relatable. [6:13] - The “long leash, large corral” approach to parenting. [10:29] - Replacing lectures with Socratic conversations to foster trust and independence. [13:49] - Colette's unforgettable car ride convo and why staying calm matters. [16:50] - How to view misbehavior as a lack of skills—not a reason to punish. [17:33] - Why regulating your emotions is the parenting superpower. [19:50] - The horse whisperer metaphor that'll change how you parent forever. [24:32] - Parenting the “Polaroid” child: Navigating confusing or unclear behavior. [26:35] - Laura's Life360 obsession and the new realities of teen safety. [30:18] - Why social kids might actually fare better than isolated ones. [33:41] - The dangerous rise of incel ideology and digital radicalization. [34:50] - The case for no phones in schools and delayed access to social media. [36:13] - Rejection in the age of Instagram: why it hits harder now. [38:59] - Talking to your teen about the long game and giving them vision. [40:50] - The crushing pressure of college admissions and why it's unsustainable. [41:41] - Final takeaways: connection over control, collaboration over lecturing. [44:32] - Letting go: Adolescence as labor and the importance of separation. [44:57] - One last reminder: regulate your emotions and help them learn to do the same. Resources:

In today's Healthy Parenting Handbook episode, I'm going to take 5 different arguments against kids doing chores and learning life skills and counter them with facts, stories, research, and a big ol' dose of common sense.These are real arguments I hear from both well-meaning parents AND keyboard warriors on social media, plus one from a well-established expert I heard on a podcast that I simply do not agree with!If you've ever had to listen to someone say it's cruelty to make your kids clean a bathroom or have felt yourself that maybe kids are busy enough - maybe life skills aren't important to learn now - this one's for you.Resources I Mention for Chores and Life SkillsReserve your spot in our 2025 Life Skills Now Summer CampPurchase access to Life Skills Now Season One from 2022, Season Two from 2023, or Season 3 from 20243 Reasons Giving Kids Responsibility is a GiftJoin us for free #LifeSkillsNow camp this summer! Register at https://www.kidscookrealfood.com/lifeskills4! Kitchen Stewardship Kids Cook Real Food follow Katie on Instagram or Facebook Subscribe to the newsletter to get weekly updates YouTube shorts channel for HPH Find the Healthy Parenting Handbook at kidscookrealfood.com/podcast Affiliate links used here. Thanks for supporting the Healthy Parenting Handbook!

Today Dr. Kelly Jameson joins me to help us understand the many dynamics of teen friendships. Although this episode mainly applies to girl moms there is advice for the boy mom in this episode as well! Kelly is a trained systems therapist who practices narrative therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. Through her many years of listening to families and teens, she has learned how to navigate the difficult years of teen and tween friendships and how to help parents coach their kids. Here is some of what we cover: The rise of “friend hoarding” and large group dynamics in 2025 What qualifies as “mean girl” behavior—and why it's all about power dynamics Coaching sons to stay out of the drama—and why that matters How moms are becoming more enmeshed in their kid's friendships and the damage that causes The 3 types of friendships every kid should understand Connect with Dr. Kelly Jameson:  Website:  Kelly Jameson - Therapy. Speaking. Consulting. Facebook: Kelly Jameson, PhD | Facebook Instagram:  Kelly Jameson, PhD (@drkellyjameson) Links Mentioned:   Queen Bees and Wannabes: by Rosalind Wiseman  Related Episodes: Back-to-School and Tech Toolkit  :: Dr. Kelly Jameson [Ep 422] Helping Our Kids Foster Friendships :: David Thomas and Sissy Goff [Ep 338] Important Topics to Cover with Tweens and Teens about Manners, Technology and Friendship :: Lee Cordon [Ep 408] Featured Sponsors:  Thrive Market: Ready to make the switch? Go to ThriveMarket.com/dma for thirty percent off your first order, plus a FREE sixty dollar gift!  The Chosen: Last Supper–The people welcome Jesus as king and expect a revolution. Threatened, the leaders will go to any length to ensure this Passover meal is Jesus' last. You can get your tickets now at TheChosenLastSupper.com Thrive Causemetics: Try your new trusty favorites with an exclusive set for our listeners. New customers can get the Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara and a mini-sized Brilliant Eye Brightener at a special set price with free shipping. Or save more with 20% off your first order at thrivecausemetics.com/DMA.  Honeylove: Treat yourself to the most comfortable shapewear on earth and save 20% Off sitewide at honeylove.com/DMA  Find links to this week's sponsors and unique promo codes at dontmomalone.com/sponsors. 

Sara and Morton Sherman, authors of Resonant Minds, reveal how parents can use music intentionally to build stronger connections with teens, navigate emotions, and support adolescent development.Full Show NotesIn a fast-paced world flooded by digital distractions, it's sometimes difficult for parents to understand how to connect more closely with their teens. We might even wonder: Is music helping or distracting teens? They have their headphones on non-stop, but what music are they listening to, and why does it mean so much to them? Music is consistently present throughout teen culture, providing emotional refuge, identity reinforcement, and sometimes, a channel to express thoughts that might otherwise remain unspoken. But as parents, educators, and caregivers, how can we intentionally use music as a communication tool to foster emotional growth, mindfulness, and stronger family connections?In this week's conversation, we explore how music isn't just entertainment or background noise—it's a powerful gateway to teen emotions and a key to deeper family relationships when used mindfully and intentionally.Our guests this week, Sara Leila Sherman and Morton Sherman, authors of the new book Resonant Minds: The Transformative Power of Music, One Note at a Time, help parents explore ways to better understand and support their teens through music. Sara is a classical musician, educator, and founder of the children's concert series Mozart for Munchkins and the Little Mozart Foundation, while Morton is an esteemed educational leader renowned for visionary contributions in teaching and leadership. They're here to offer insight into the rich possibilities music provides for building emotional awareness, mindfulness, and family connections.How Music Shapes Emotions and MindsetSara and Mort explain that teenagers spend up to four hours a day on average listening to music—but not always intentionally or thoughtfully. Music, they explain, is always working subtly to influence our emotions. Intentionally choosing music can help teens shift their emotional state, whether they want to reduce stress, lift their mood, or even find calm and concentration. Sara reveals how a simple piece of music can help teens reach a calmer mindset or even create safe emotional exploration.Sara shares practical tips on how parents can help teens become more purposeful listeners. Asking teens to select songs as a mood-boosting family activity, for example, can create an emotional dialogue and a stronger familial bond. But this practice takes patience and openness—forcing teens to turn off their music or forbidding certain genres won't work and can backfire quickly. The real key, the Shermans explain, is to let music serve as a platform for conversations, connections, and ultimately self-discovery.Using Music for Mindfulness and Family HarmonySara highlights examples from her workshops, where music paired with mindful practices helps students handle anxiety or self-consciousness during challenging moments. Simple exercises, like breathing along with the rhythm of a carefully-selected piece of music, can significantly relieve tension. Additionally, choosing family music traditions or routines—like designating a specific artist or playlist to accompany certain tasks like homework, chores, or winding down—can set helpful rhythms for the entire family's daily routine.Mort emphasizes that music isn't just about individual wellbeing, but also about building community and understanding. He suggests that instead of shutting down teens' interests or dismissing music they appreciate but parents might find unsettling, we can choose to engage in it as an educational and bonding opportunity. Redirecting potentially negative influences requires a careful conversational approach, built on trust, respect, and dialogue. By showing respectful curiosity about their music choices, we not only acknowledge their emerging independence, we also reinforce healthy decision-making skills.Cultivating Positive Musical HabitsThe Shermans encourage parents and teens alike to develop “mindful musical habits” to promote emotional regulation and balance. Sara explains how picking anchoring pieces of music—those we connect strongly with and that reliably help us feel grounded—can become positive habits in both teens' and parents' daily landscapes. Mort adds the importance of experimenting and discovering what works best for each individual family member, reminding parents that music choice is deeply personal, and what works for one may not resonate for all. Mutual respect in listening develops lifelong learning, understanding, and family closeness.Mort also suggests playful, simple family activities, like guessing songs by tapping rhythms, sharing musical memories from each generation, or collectively creating family playlists, can extend bonding experiences. These intentional rituals turn fleeting family moments into treasured memories, layered with musical meaning that resonates far beyond adolescence.In the Episode…Whether your teen is an aspiring musician or just glued to their Spotify account, the Shermans provide practical, actionable ideas to make music a more intentional part of family life. Other topics covered include:How music can support teens who struggle socially or academicallyUsing musical earworms positively in your teen's daily routineWhy parents shouldn't outright ban controversial music but engage through listening and dialogueEmerging technologies and AI-generated personalized music—and how it impacts teens' musical consumptionTo learn more about Resonant Minds and find the Sherman's recommended playlist, visit resonantminds.com. You can also directly experience Sara's interactive musical sessions at Mozart for Munchkins events if you're located in New York City. Thanks so much for tuning in this week—share, subscribe, and stay tuned for more fascinating conversations next week!

In this episode of the Parenting Reset Show, Tess Connolly, LCSW interviews Sabrina Yavil, a former beauty industry executive turned entrepreneur, who shares her journey of creating Grime, a clean personal care brand for preteens and teens. Sabrina discusses the challenges of finding safe and effective products for her three boys, the battles over bath time, and her motivation to develop a solution that meets the needs of kids while ensuring their safety. The conversation highlights the importance of self-care, the complexities of product ingredients, and the journey of entrepreneurship in the beauty industry. In this conversation, Tess Connolly and Sabrina Yavil discuss the challenges of parenting, particularly around hygiene and self-care for children. They explore innovative products designed to simplify these routines, the importance of fostering independence in kids, and the impact of early hygiene habits on self-esteem. Sabrina shares her journey in developing clean beauty products and emphasizes the significance of ingredient awareness for children's health. The discussion also touches on family dynamics, gratitude, and personal growth.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sabrina Yavil and Grime 07:40 Sabrina's Journey in the Beauty Industry 12:07 The Challenge of Finding Safe Products for Kids 18:14 Navigating Bath Time Battles with Kids 21:31 Creating Grime: A Solution for Preteens and Teens 25:09 Innovative Hair Care Solutions 26:44 Navigating Parent-Child Hygiene Habits 28:57 empowering Independence in Self-Care 30:51 The Importance of Early Hygiene 32:20 Creating a Cool and Inviting Bathroom Environment 33:39 Product Development Journey 37:55 Gratitude and Family Dynamics  38:14 Ingredient Awareness and Safety 44:51 Reflection on Family and Personal Growth   Find out more here

The Holocaust is difficult to remember, difficult to grasp, and difficult to teach. But – to prevent it from happening again – it is history that demands our examination! Join Linda Lacour Hobar, author of The Mystery of History, for a pensive look at the Holocaust and what teens and tweens should know about it. Part 1 of this two-part podcast will touch on Hitler's evil ideology and politics.  Don't miss Part 2 which will cover the horrendous repercussions of Hitler's ideas, as well as the bravery of those who stood against it. Let us learn what NOT to repeat in history! (This podcast may not be appropriate for young or sensitive students.)

The Tweens & Teens are learning how to identify themselves and the question is... Are the parents listening and do they want to understand?Press PlayDISCLOSURE: IN THIS EPISODE, I AM DISCUSSING GENDER, AND THE DETAILS OF IT. IF THIS IS NOT SOMETHING YOU WERE PREPARED TO EXPLAIN TO YOUR KID PLEASE DO NOT Play.#gender #parentingFollow us on Chan & Pods channelSubscribe to the show on YT and on your podcast apphttps://cozy-womb-shop.creator-spring.comTikTok: @chanbepoddinInstagram @TheczywmbpodcastX @theczywmbpod#parentinginabetterwaySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/cozy-womb/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

William Stixrud and Ned Johnson, authors of The Seven Principles for Raising a Self-driven Child, share how parents can build connection, support autonomy, set healthy expectations, and create more joy and calm in family life.Full Show NotesAs our children grow into teenagers, parents often find themselves uncertain about how deeply to intervene. We know our kids need our involvement and guidance, but teenagers also crave autonomy and independence. Teens often appear distant and difficult, getting frustrated when we try to help solve their problems, yet feeling hurt when we don't show enough interest. Add stress about school, extracurriculars, and the future into the mix, and family life can quickly spiral into frequent conflict, anxiety, and disconnection.How can we give our teenagers the steady presence they need without micromanaging or inadvertently amplifying their stress? What does being a relaxed, positive, and supportive parent actually look like in daily practice? How can we inspire our teens to be driven, motivated, and self-directed without resorting to threats, bribes, or constant reminders?Today's guests, William Stixrud and Ned Johnson, offer compassionate, practical solutions from their new book, The Seven Principles for Raising a Self-driven Child. Bill is a clinical neuropsychologist, and Ned is the founder of Prep Matters. After two bestselling books on parenting and educational motivation, their latest interactive workbook provides powerful exercises and reflective prompts to help parents foster resilience, autonomy, and joy in their families. Together, Bill and Ned show how parents can become calm, confident leaders who empower teens rather than push or control them.Building a Calm and Confident Parental PresenceBill and Ned share why being a calm, non-anxious presence is one of the most powerful ways to support our teens. Rather than reflecting back our children's stress or adding to it with our own worries, they recommend setting the goal of becoming less emotionally reactive. Bill and Ned offer practical strategies, including meditation and cognitive practices, to train ourselves out of fear-based interactions. This calm approach reinforces teens' belief that they can handle life's ups and downs without parents needing to intervene constantly.Healthy Expectations vs. Anxiety-Driven PressureHow high should parents set their expectations? Bill and Ned dive deep into how expectations can provide either healthy motivation or become harmful sources of anxiety. They remind parents that expressing gentle confidence—that our teens are capable if they work at something—is far healthier and more motivating than demanding perfect outcomes. Bill and Ned reveal thoughtful ways to assess and realign your family's expectations around what truly matters to you and your teen.Using Joy and Humor to ConnectIt's easy for family life with teens to center solely around problems to solve—grades, chores, social relationships—leaving everyone exhausted and joyless. In this episode, Ned and Bill emphasize why prioritizing joyful family rituals like Friday movie nights, outings, or humor-filled interactions are so essential. By carving out time simply to enjoy and laugh together, you communicate that your child's presence is valued and loved unconditionally, no matter the stressors you face.Helping Teens Discover Their Own PathMany teens feel overwhelmed by other people's expectations—parents, teachers, coaches—and lose sight of what they truly want or care about. Bill and Ned offer profound insights into how to ask non-threatening, reflective questions about what teens genuinely love and value. Learning to help your teens identify their intrinsic motivators rather than external pressures is vital to building lifelong skills and confidence.In this Episode, we also discussTalking to teens about their core valuesThe surprising importance of "passionate pastimes"Addressing perfectionism and self-criticismStrategies to parent anxiety-prone or avoidant teensIf you're looking for proven approaches to calm anxiety around parenting teens and foster self-driven motivation, you won't want to miss Bill and Ned's tested wisdom. Their thoughtful, compassionate insights help every parent gracefully navigate the teenage years. Listen now, and make sure to subscribe and share!

Hey! This is the 260th episode. This week we talk Arcade Games, Tweens of the Stone Age, and A Flock of Foul Fowl!! Reach out: notgoodwithmatt@gmail.com

A few months ago, I had my friend and colleague Cathy Adams on the show to talk about her book Restoring Our Girls and raising daughters to be emotionally healthy in a complicated world. I knew then that I wanted to have a similar conversation for a future episode, but this time, focusing on boys, specifically about why many teen boys are struggling right now and what we, as parents, can do to support them. I also knew exactly who I wanted to bring on the show to talk about this — Dr. John Duffy. Through his private practice, bestselling books, and media appearances on CNN, NPR, and the Today Show, John has helped thousands of parents navigate the complex world of raising teens in today's world. And he's really got a pulse on the complex inner lives of today's teen boys.   In this conversation, we talk about the unique mental health challenges boys are facing today, from increased isolation and anxiety to the messages they are getting from society that are leading to self-doubt and emotional struggles. We also discussed how the pandemic intensified these issues and why paying attention to the media they are consuming is key to connecting with them. John also shared how neurodivergent boys may experience these challenges differently and shared practical strategies for fostering emotional resilience and self-worth.   About my guest Dr. John Duffy is a Chicago-based clinical psychologist, best-selling author, keynote speaker and national media expert. He has been in private practice for 25 years, specializing in work with adolescents, young adults and their parents. Dr. Duffy has written three best-selling books intended to provide parents with the tools to help their teens and young adults thrive in this persistent age of anxiety. For more than a decade, Dr. Duffy has also spoken to thousands of parents internationally through PTA's, Fortune 500 corporate programs, and other parenting networks. Dr. Duffy has written and contributed to articles for CNN, the Washington Post, The New York Times, Your Teen, Time and countless other media outlets. On television, he has been a regular contributing expert on NewsNation and Steve Harvey, and has shared his expertise through frequent appearances on CNN, the Today show, the Morning Blend, and hundreds of appearances on local and regional outlets. On radio, Dr. Duffy is a regularly appearing expert on WGN, WLS and NPR.He shares his current articles on his Substack titled On Parenting and Life.   Things you'll learn Why boys are facing a growing mental health crisis, with increasing isolation, lack of hope, and behavioral challenges How the pandemic intensified boys' disconnection, highlighting a significant gender divide in mental health How societal narratives around masculinity contribute to self-loathing and emotional struggles in boys How parents can foster connection by engaging with their sons' interests and understanding their media influences Why looking beyond surface behaviors helps parents support boys' emotional well-being and sense of identity   Resources Dr. John Duffy's website Rescuing Our Sons: 8 Solutions to Our Crisis of Disaffected Teen Boys by Dr. John Duffy Parenting the New Teen in the Age of Anxiety: A Complete Guide to Your Child's Stressed, Depressed, Expanded, Amazing Adolescence by Dr. John Duffy The Available Parent: Expert Advice for Raising Successful Teens and Tweens by Dr. John Duffy Dr. John Duffy on Facebook Dr. John Duffy on Instagram Dr. John Duffy's Substack, On Parenting & Life Parenting the New Teen with Dr. John Duffy (Tilt Parenting Podcast) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Doug Bolton, author of Untethered, reveals why teenage misbehavior is a skill issue rather than a motivation problem—and explains how adults can teach teens emotional regulation, stress management, and accountability.Full Show NotesWe've all been there; after yet another homework battle, missed curfew, or bitter argument, we throw our hands up in frustration and wonder why can't our teen just behave? Typically we've been taught to see teens' "problem behaviors"—breaking rules, fighting us on homework, zoning out—is all a motivation issue. We've internalized the idea that teens “act out” because they're lazy, they don't care enough, or they're defiantly choosing not to listen. As a result, parents often respond by escalating punishments, removing privileges, or lecturing until everyone is angry or shut down.But what if we've got this all wrong? What if we're mislabeling stress behaviors and skill deficits as "bad motivation"? Shifting from a motivation-based view to seeing teen misbehavior as a lack of emotional regulation skills can be truly transformational for families. It turns out that when teens aren't meeting expectations, they're usually struggling because they haven't developed crucial skills yet, like moving easily from something they want to do (TikTok, gaming) towards something they don't (homework, chores). Instead of punishing teens, parents can address the root cause: helping them build essential, lifelong skills.To guide us in rethinking teen discipline, we're joined by Doug Bolton, psychologist, longtime principal, therapist, and author of Untethered: Creating Connected Families, Schools, and Communities to Raise a Resilient Generation. Doug spent over two decades as principal at Northshore Academy, a school designed specifically for emotionally and behaviorally struggling teens. He's observed firsthand how approaching misbehavior as a stress and skills problem, rather than a motivation issue, transforms kid's lives and relationships.In this episode, Doug explains why punishments and incentives typically fail with teenagers—and how we can shift to skill-building and connection instead. We'll learn how teens' brains work differently around stress and decision-making (hint: they're not fully mature until age 30!) and why we can't expect instant adult-level reasoning from them constantly. Doug gives us step-by-step guidance on how to respond effectively when teens are stressed, emotional, and reactive.Why Emotions, Not Motivation, Drive Behavior:Have you ever noticed how some days your teen can easily breeze through their homework, while other days they struggle intensely? Doug explains that this is one of the telltale signs of emotional and stress behavior. Teens' emotional regulation skills are still developing, and their ability to smoothly manage stressors fluctuates based on context and daily circumstances. Their struggles come from the normal teenage brain being a "work in progress," not from laziness or defiance.Doug illustrates how quickly adults escalate to punishments when they feel out of control, unintentionally reinforcing shame and fear. Instead, he shows how we can help teens practice emotional regulation strategies like breaks, walks, or even a few minutes playing video games or listening to music, to bring their brains back into calmer, rational territory.Effective Discipline: Teaching Skills, Not Enforcing PunishmentInstead of punishments that create resentment and anger, Doug emphasizes the importance of accountability. But this accountability isn't about suffering detention or grounding—it's about responsibility and making amends. He explains how parents can coach teens through thoughtful conversations about repairing harm done, being responsible, and explaining what happened. Teens are capable of mature reflection, empathy and restitution if we guide them, rather than shame them.Doug also speaks powerfully about the mistakes adults make when it comes to teen status and stress. How younger teens or "less successful" students experience enormous stress from being at the bottom of the peer or family-status ladder, and why we must watch carefully that we aren't subtly reinforcing these harmful hierarchies at home. Treating all kids fairly and helping each teen find purpose and status in their unique talents deeply reduces unhealthy stress.Helping Teens Find Their Purpose Through Service and ConnectionSometimes the teens labeled "troubled" or 'hard-to-reach" are actually those most capable of empathy and service. Doug shares moving stories of teens who were acting out or at risk, yet discovered purpose and meaning through helping younger students or mentoring peers through similar struggles (such as substance abuse recovery). Often the kids who've encountered the biggest hurdles have profound insights to share, if we provide opportunities for them to give.Doug explains how shifting these teens from being the only recipients of support (or discipline) to being providers and mentors themselves can radically change their trajectory, healing emotional wounds and boosting their sense of self-worth.In the Episode…There's a wealth of wisdom Doug shares beyond these topics! In our conversation, Doug and I also cover:Practical emotional regulation strategies for parents and teensHow to identify "stress behaviors" and address underlying stressorsWhy punishments work against connection (and what to do instead!)What parents can learn from couples' "bids for connection"Why teens who struggle most can often give the greatest giftsThis episode takes a closer look at what truly sparks teenage acting out behaviors—and how we as parents and educators can respond thoughtfully and effectively. Doug's approach reframes teen discipline from a power struggle toward understanding, connection, and mutual learning. If you're looking for realistic strategies to reduce confrontations and transform your relationship with your teen, be sure to tune in.Doug Bolton is author of Untethered: Creating Connected Families, Schools, and Communities to Raise a Resilient Generation. Check him out online at drdougbolton.com or FPSchicago.com to learn more. Thanks for listening, and don't forget to share this episode and subscribe to Talking to Teens—we'll see you next week!

Sara Billiet from the Kewanee Public Library joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss events at the Kewanee Public Library in April. The Kewanee Public Library is buzzing with activities this April. "Coding for Tweens," postponed due to weather, is rescheduled for April 9th at 3:30 PM. Meanwhile, residents can look forward to a lively block party offering a bounce house, face painting, and engaging activities aimed at uniting the community in joy and camaraderie. Adding to the excitement, the Cinema at the Carnegie is presenting the enchanting musical "Wicked," with its first screening on April 10th at 2 PM, followed by another on April 29th at 10:30 AM. Get ready for a month filled with fun, creativity, and connection! For more information, visit https://kewaneelibrary.org/.

Elizabeth Husserl, author of The Power of Enough, joins us to discuss how parents can teach their teens a healthy relationship with money, how to use financial decisions to meet deeper needs, and how families can start meaningful conversations around money.Sponsored by Equip: Eating disorder treatment that works—delivered at home. Visit equip.health/talking for more information, and a free consultation.Full Show NotesMoney can feel like a taboo topic—even within our own households. While we'd love our teens to grow up feeling confident and secure financially, it can seem challenging to teach them how to approach money effectively—let alone joyfully. Many young people enter adulthood without a clear sense of how to balance their financial resources with their deeper needs and desires. How can parents foster a healthier, happier, and more meaningful relationship between their teenagers and money?In this episode, we're diving into how to redefine and transform your family's relationship with money, shifting from scarcity to joy. Joining us on this journey is Elizabeth Husserl, the co-founder of Peak 360 Wealth Management and author of the new book The Power Of Enough: Finding Joy in Your Relationship with Money. Elizabeth combines expertise as a financial advisor with insights gained through her study of transpersonal and somatic psychology, teaching families how to view money and wealth in deeper, more fulfilling ways.In our conversation, Elizabeth explains how to help teens understand that wealth goes far beyond having money in the bank. She argues that a healthy relationship with money is about intentionally and creatively meeting our deeper human needs. Elizabeth shares her strategies and exercises developed from psychology and personal experience, guiding parents in teaching teens to manage financial resources thoughtfully and in alignment with their unique sense of fulfillment.Redefining Wealth & ScarcityElizabeth emphasizes the distinction between money and wealth. While money is simply a tool, wealth relates to our overall state of well-being. She describes how many people carry stories of scarcity handed down from previous generations—traumas, hardships, and struggles—despite those conditions no longer matching their everyday experience.By helping teenagers examine their personal and family money stories, parents can free their children from generational anxiety around money and encourage mindful, empowered financial experiences. Elizabeth outlines how we can become "anthropologists" of our money behaviors, identifying patterns and stories without judgment, and then choosing consciously how to move forward.The Wealth Mandala and Teaching Needs-Based DecisionsOne of Elizabeth's key tools—the Wealth Mandala—is a powerful exercise for teens and adults alike. Elizabeth shows us how to use this exercise to explore our core human needs such as connection, belonging, creativity, and safety. By mapping out areas where we feel fulfilled (or lacking), families learn to consciously channel their resources—financial and otherwise—to address what truly matters.Anxiety about money often comes from not truly understanding our needs. Elizabeth provides clear and concrete examples of how parents can guide their teenagers in understanding and articulating their deeper needs—beyond fleeting desires for material possessions—and learning to fulfill these needs in fulfilling, sustainable, and financially mindful ways.Having Honest Family Money ConversationsTalking directly with your children about family finances and money values can be intimidating. Elizabeth offers practical strategies and scripts, like the Target store exercise she implemented with her own daughter, demonstrating how to let teens make empowered spending decisions through a thoughtful dialogue.By responding without judgment or shaming, parents can teach teens to pause and critically evaluate their financial choices. Teens ultimately learn agency over their decisions and how to effectively balance immediate material desires against long-term financial health and satisfaction.In the Episode…Elizabeth's holistic and compassionate approach to money and wealth shows us how we can help teenagers develop a meaningful relationship to their resources. Our conversation also covers:How to change from a finite to an infinite view of workWhy having a 'conversation' with money can change your family dynamicSimple tools for teaching teens financial decision-making skillsHow somatic psychology can guide spending for greater life fulfillmentIf you're looking to shift your family's dialogue about money from tension and confusion toward joy and deep satisfaction, Elizabeth Husserl provides profound insights and accessible strategies. Be sure to check out her book, The Power Of Enough: Finding Joy in Your Relationship with Money, and find resources, guides, and more tools on her website elizabethhusserl.com.Thanks for listening! Don't forget to share, subscribe, and we'll see you next week.Sponsored by Equip: Eating disorder treatment that works—delivered at home. Visit equip.health/talking for more information, and a free consultation.

This interview provides insights into the tween consumer market from YPulse's MaryLeigh Bliss. Learn about their tech habits, social media use (YouTube, TikTok, Fortnite), parental influence, and key trends shaping this generation. Discover how to effectively reach 8- to 12-year-olds with digital products, gaming, and diverse content.

Sex ed in schools isn't cutting it, and studies show that kids are turning to porn for answers. In this episode, Traci Thomas of The Stacks podcast joins us to suggest books that help tweens and teens navigate the complicated world of sex and relationships. We'll cover fiction and nonfiction — plus a few picks to help spice up the sex lives of parents! … Recent episodes about sex ed • #220 The Staircase • #221 How to Now (Accidentally) Raise a Rapist … Episode resources • More about Traci • Full list of books mentioned in this episode … Episode sponsors (using our links supports the show!) • Alloy: $20 off your 1st order at alloy.com/LONGEST • Hungryroot: 40% off 1st box + free item in every box for life at hungryroot.com/LONGSHORT with code LONGSHORT • Quince: free shipping + 365-day returns at quince.com/LONGSHORT … Join LST+ for community and access to You Know What, another show in the Longest Shortest universe! Follow us on Instagram Website: longestshortesttime.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Happy Wednesday! Today on the podcast, we chat with Erin from UNE! Erin is an occupational therapist whose students come volunteer and lead activities in our Tweens program each spring! Thanks, for joining us Erin! Also in this episode, Jeff shares his Mount Rushmore of flowers, Noel reviews his weekend activities and we play a round of STRIVEia all about the Spring! No new ingredients this week, but make sure you tune in next week to see what Chef Ryan cooks up! If you enjoy listening to the STRIVECast – please like, comment, share, or leave us a reaction! Who knows, you could even be the next listener of the week! Happy Listening!!

Caroline Fleck, author of Validation, explains how to make teens feel deeply understood and supported, highlighting powerful validation tools, avoiding common parenting pitfalls, and uncovering practical strategies to improve teen communication and trust.Sponsored by Equip: Eating disorder treatment that works—delivered at home. Visit equip.health/talking for more information, and a free consultation.Full Show NotesWe often hear that parenting teenagers is one of the hardest yet most rewarding experiences. Is your teen withdrawing, shutting down, or resisting connection? Does it feel like no matter what you say, you're met with silence, frustration, or emotion-driven outbursts? If communication in your household feels increasingly difficult, you're not alone—parents everywhere are struggling to maintain open, positive relationships with their teenagers. What we may not realize is that our well-meaning responses often discourage teens from fully sharing their experiences, pushing them to close themselves off at precisely the time we hope they'll open up.That's where validation comes in—not vague praise or mere agreement, but true validation that meets teens where they are and makes them feel genuinely seen and understood. It's a powerful technique drawn from psychotherapy, designed specifically to reach even the most resistant individuals. Learning validation can transform your interactions with your teenager, making your communication not just easier and more frequent, but deeper, warmer, and more meaningful.In today's episode, we're joined by validation expert Dr. Caroline Fleck, author of Validation. Caroline is a practicing therapist and expert in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), the clinical approach that developed these powerful validation techniques to treat the most challenging clients. She shares why validation was such a groundbreaking discovery in psychology—and why every parent can use it to create profound transformations at home.In our engaging conversation, Caroline introduces the dynamic and practical levels of validation, offering a "validation ladder" technique to help parents authentically relate to their teens' experiences. We discuss common pitfalls, explore why certain ways of communicating with younger children become ineffective—or even counterproductive—as they grow into adolescence, and clarify how validation can be the bridge that adapts along with your teen.Why Validation Matters for TeensValidation isn't just about making teens feel momentarily better—it has tangible, scientifically-backed effects on their emotional health, behavior, and trust. Caroline introduces powerful research that shows teens who anticipate genuine, validating conversations from their parents are likely to be more forthcoming with important details about their lives. Validation communicates that teens' emotions, thoughts, and experiences make sense and are meaningful, which is critical at a developmental stage when acceptance and belonging become extremely important.To illustrate, Caroline shares insightful experiences from her own clinical practice working directly with teenagers. She demonstrates how stepping into teens' worlds in a validating way builds powerful trust and leads to greater openness—even in teens known for being especially guarded. Surprisingly, this doesn't require heavy conversations—in fact, often doing your nails or chatting about a favorite comic can be the launching pad for deeper trust and connection.The Validation LadderCaroline breaks down her validation framework into different levels—what she refers to as the "validation ladder." From simple attention (being mindfully present) at the lowest rung, to logical understanding at mid-level, and finally to a powerful empathy level where parents disclose and relate emotionally, each rung offers progressively deeper validation.But Caroline also warns of risks at each stage. For instance, while empathy and disclosure can powerfully connect, too much disclosure or missing the emotional mark can create disconnection. Validation is subtle, with decreasing margin for error as you climb higher on Caroline's ladder—but it has undeniable, life-changing power when you get it right.Finding the Balance with TeensTeens are paradoxical. On one hand, they want to be understood as unique individuals; on the other, feeling "normal" and accepted by peers is paramount. Caroline walks us through how parents can walk that fine line—validating the emotional intensity of first-time teen experiences while still helping teens see their responses as understandable and normal.One of Caroline's favorite tips? The "Caroline Qualifier," a strategic technique that allows parents to validate the uniqueness of a teen's experience without alienating them or trivializing what they are going through. We discuss practical examples of how to implement this while navigating first breakups and intense friendships.Why "Doing Something" MattersSometimes, simply acknowledging feelings verbally isn't enough. Caroline explains how taking concrete actions can become our most powerful validation tool—clearly communicating to the teen, “I hear you, I value what you're going through, and it's important enough that I'm going to do something about it.” But how do parents decide when to act? Caroline gives critical perspective on when this is helpful, and importantly, when taking action can actually backfire.She offers practical strategies parents can use to show concretely—without becoming controlling or invalidating—that a teen's feelings and needs matter enough for concrete steps to be taken.Powerful Strategies Explored in This Episode:How self-disclosure transforms your teen's trust in youProposing and its Jedi mind-trick impact on communicationFinding the "golden snitch" to reinforce positive behaviorsWhen NOT to validate: handling emotional outbursts constructivelyHow seemingly small invalidating comments can become lasting negative self-talkWant to learn simple—but powerful—validation skills that transform your relationship with your teen? Listen to today's episode with Caroline Fleck for expert validation tools, clear guidance on common parenting pitfalls, and real-world strategies you can use today to forge deeper understanding with your teen. Don't forget to subscribe and share Talking to Teens with friends and family who have teens in their lives!Sponsored by Equip: Eating disorder treatment that works—delivered at home. Visit equip.health/talking for more information, and a free consultation.

Send Lauren a text! In this episode, I explore the link between smartphone use and anxiety in tweens and teens. I'll introduce the term "problematic smartphone use," explain what it looks like, how to recognize if your child is struggling with it, and share practical (as well as creative) strategies to help them set healthier boundaries with their phone.✨ What's Bringing Me More ZenTune in after the break to discover what recently brought me more zen. I was the lucky winner of a contest at a local salon and day spa! I'll tell you about the fabulous services I won and one in particular which I will definitely be returning for! Even if you're not local, I guarantee this service is offered in your area too ☺️If you're local to Fairfield County or Litchfield County, CT, check out the fabulous salons, DPZ on Main in Danbury or DPZ North in Litchfield: https://thedpz.com/

Kathleen deLaski, author of Who Needs College Anymore?, joins us to discuss the evolving necessity of college education in light of new career pathways, rising tuition costs, and the changing job market influenced by technology and skills-based hiring.Sponsored by Equip: Eating disorder treatment that works—delivered at home. Visit equip.health/talking for more information, and a free consultation.Full Show NotesIn the rapidly changing landscape of education and employment, parents are left questioning the value of a college degree for their teenagers. With soaring tuition fees and an evolving job market that increasingly values skills and experience over formal education, it's no wonder many are rethinking the traditional path. As artificial intelligence and automation continue to reshape industries, the future of college education becomes even more uncertain.To unpack these transformative trends, we're joined this week by Kathleen deLaski, the founder and board chair of the Education Design Lab. Kathleen, a senior advisor at Harvard's Project on Workforce and a professor at George Mason University, recently authored Who Needs College Anymore?, offering a fresh perspective on the traditional college track. Through her work and personal experiences, Kathleen shines a light on how parents can navigate and advise their teens in this shifting educational paradigm.The Evolution of 'Higher Education'The script for achieving the American Dream, once dominated by the pursuit of a college degree, is being rewritten. Kathleen shares insights into how more than half of high school graduates venture towards college, yet less than 40% achieve a bachelor's degree. She delves into the inflated expectations for degrees in the job market and highlights the blurring lines between traditional blue- and white-collar roles—changes driven by technological advancements.Beyond the College DegreeKathleen explores the burgeoning pathways that don't involve college, acknowledging the roles apprenticeships and industry certifications can play. She argues for a mindset shift, urging educational institutions to offer hands-on experience outside conventional classroom settings. The traditional college experience might still benefit some, but for others, Kathleen advocates exploring micro-pathways that offer direct routes into the workforce.Addressing the Last MileOne of the significant hurdles for college graduates is the "last mile," or the transition from education to employment—a common pitfall Kathleen identifies as a gap colleges must address. She emphasizes the importance of obtaining career-related experiences and the proactive role colleges and students should undertake to ensure job readiness. As artificial intelligence becomes a staple in recruitment, standing out requires fostering real-world skills and networks.In the Episode...Throughout our conversation, Kathleen offers thoughtful insights into these pressing questions:How can parents support teens' interests while considering modern educational pathways?What role do certifications and digital skills wallets play in validating competencies without degrees?How can we facilitate skills-based hiring to redefine job readiness?Kathleen deLaski's perspective is invaluable for any parent navigating their teen's educational choices amidst rapid changes in higher education. Her work urges us to reconsider our approach to student success, encouraging dialogue and action to adapt to the future of learning. For those interested in learning more about Kathleen's thought-provoking work, visit whoneedscollegeanymore.org, where resources and discussion guides are available. Don't forget to check out her book for a comprehensive understanding of how degrees might lose their gravity in the coming years. Stay tuned and subscribe for a deeper dive into the education of tomorrow.Sponsored by Equip: Eating disorder treatment that works—delivered at home. Visit equip.health/talking for more information, and a free consultation.

The Fat Mascara family is part of the show this week! Jess & Jenn share listener voicemails discussing Sephora birthday parties and tweens wearing makeup. We also talk about proposed legislation in California to ban the sale of “anti-aging skincare” to children. Plus, why is the FDA insisting that sunscreens in America should be tested on animals? We'll discuss that, as well as Jess's recent adventure with Fraxel, eyeliners for your (dark) chocolate brown years, and two delightful lip treats.Episode recap: fatmascara.com/blog/ep-567Products mentioned in this episode: shopmy.us/collections/1321546Sponsor links & discount codes: fatmascara.com/sponsorsPrivate Facebook Group: Fat Mascara Raising a WandTikTok & Instagram: @fatmascara, @jenn_edit, @jessicamatlin + contributors @garrettmunce, @missjuleeSubmit a "Raise A Wand" product recommendation: text us or leave a voicemail at 646-481-8182 or email info@fatmascara.com Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/fatmascara. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A problem with disrespect from a child always goes back to a dysfunction in the parent-child relationship.   Summary When our sweet children enter the teen years and adolescence is upon them, something happens that tends to cause parents stress and dismay - back talk and disrespect.  Some of this is immaturity on the part of the child and some is simply lack of training in relationships.  It is our job as parents to teach our children how to express their feelings, disagree, and even debate while maintaining an attitude of respect towards us and therefore, other people in their lives.  The family is the training ground for life!  In this podcast we will give you some perspective on the struggles teens have, tell you what NOT to do and explain the Three C's of responding to a mouthy teen.  Listen in!   Key Takeaways A disrespectful child is, simply put, someone no one wants to be around. But the good news is that parents can change this!  We can help our child become someone we not just love, but like.   Yelling, punishing, taking things personally, and debating with your teen does not work.  Avoid these reactions.  Tweens and teens need us to guide them on acceptable ways of speaking to others.  This will help them be successful in many areas of life.  CONTROL YOURSELF - If you are triggered by your teen and fly off the handle, ask yourself why and get your emotional life in order.  CONSEQUENCES - It is our responsibility to help them see what happens when they don't control their tongue.  The world's consequences will be much harder than ours!  COACH - We need to point our teens towards adulthood so they can see we are not treating them as a child, we are teaching them how to be an adult.  Couple Discussion Questions Are we happy with the way that our children speak to us?  Can we identify areas of difficulty with them?  What would be a quick, acceptable consequence for our child's disrespect?  Which one of us would be best to talk to them about this?  How can we coach our child to do better?    Links: Link to Cana90 https://messyfamilyproject.org/programs/cana90/ Link to Beloved Event https://arrayofhope.regfox.com/beloved  

Sharon Saline, Psy.D., helps parents understand the biopsychology of adolescent development and use practical, strength-based approaches that foster cooperation with resistant, oppositional tweens & teens and help them develop self-esteem and resilience. Teens with ADHD: More Resources Free Download: Transform Your Teen's Apathy Into Engagement Self-Test: Could Your Child Have Oppositional Defiant Disorder? Read: You Can't Change Your Defiant Teenager… Read: “Take a Sabbatical from Teaching and Judging” Access the video and slides for podcast episode #543 here: https://www.additudemag.com/webinar/teen-behavior-adhd-adolescent-parenting-help/ Thank you for listening to ADDitude's ADHD Experts podcast. Please consider subscribing to the magazine (additu.de/subscribe) to support our mission of providing ADHD education and support.