Parenting Anxious Teens | Parenting Teens, Managing Teen Anxiety, Parenting Strategies

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67 | Bonus Episode: Free Parenting Audio Event with Monica Virga Alborno for Support and Strategies During the Holidays

2025-10-0320:05

Hi Parents! In this bonus episode, I’m excited to share a special opportunity with you. Monica Virga Alborno is hosting a FREE Intentional Living for Families Summit from Oct. 6th-9th, bringing together a variety of experts who share practical tools, strategies, and encouragement to help parents feel more supported during the holiday season. This audio event is designed to give you insights and strategies you can use at home right away, while also helping you feel less overwhelmed during this busy time of year. If you’d like lifetime access to the sessions, you can upgrade with the All-Access Pass and as a listener of Parenting Anxious Teens, you’ll receive $5 off when you use the code MONICA at checkout. 👉🏻 Register for the free event here. 👉🏻 Upgrade with the All-Access Pass and use code MONICA for $5 off. This is a wonderful way to connect with expert voices, discover new strategies, and feel more supported as a parent this holiday season. More About Monica Virga Alborno: Featured in Forbes, Glamour, Business Insider, and Parents, Monica Virga Alborno is a former Fortune 500 energy engineering executive turned entrepreneur. She is the founder of Wanderwild Family Retreats, the only established retreat company in the Americas welcoming children and WandHERwild, a podcast and digital community for the modern mother. Originally from New Jersey and now based in Norway, she has lived on four continents, visited more than 80 countries, and is raising two globally rooted children. Her work is fueled by a passion for experiential learning, holistic self-development, and building communities that empower families. Big hugs, Monica Crnogorac Next Steps Book a Free Discovery Call Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program Connect With Me on Instagram

66 | Breaking the Cycle of Trauma to Support Your Anxious Teen with Dr. Robyn Koslowitz

2025-09-3048:40

Hi Parents! If you’ve ever felt like your child’s anxiety is triggering your own old wounds, this episode will give you tools and hope for breaking the cycle. I’m joined by Dr. Robyn Koslowitz, psychologist, trauma expert, and author of Post-Traumatic Parenting: Break the Cycle, Become the Parent You Always Wanted to Be. Dr. Koslowitz is the founder of the Post-Traumatic Parenting model, which helps parents heal their inner child while raising their real-world child with resilience and compassion. In our conversation, Dr. Koslowitz shares her powerful “trauma app” metaphor, explains why trauma so often impacts our parenting, and walks us through the 5 subtypes of Post-Traumatic Parenting. We also talk about her R2 Parenting framework - Responsive and Responsible - and how it compares to other parenting styles. If your teen struggles with anxiety, you’ll hear how their struggles might bring up your own trauma, and most importantly, what you can do to respond without passing that pain along. More About Dr. Robyn Koslowitz: Dr. Robyn Koslowitz is a psychologist and trauma expert who helps parents recognize how their own childhood experiences influence their parenting today. Through her Post-Traumatic Parenting model, she guides parents to break free from inherited patterns, heal their inner child, and raise resilient, emotionally secure kids. Her work combines clinical expertise with compassionate insight, offering parents both understanding and actionable tools. This episode is filled with powerful insights and practical tools for parents of anxious teens. Dr. Koslowitz reminds us that while our inner child can’t raise a child, the very act of parenting our real-world children can become part of our own healing journey. Big hugs, Monica Crnogorac Next Steps Book a Free Discovery Call Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program Connect With Me on Instagram

65 | How to Help Your Perfectionist Teen Overcome Procrastination and Build Confidence with Becky Funk

2025-09-2331:06

Hi Parents! If your teen crumbles when it’s time to make a decision, second-guesses everything they do, or constantly worries about making the wrong choice, then this episode is for you. In this conversation, I’m joined by Becky, a Certified Master Life Coach and the creator of the Stand Strong System. Becky helps anxious teens go from reactive to resilient, and she’s here to unpack the connection between perfectionism and decision-making anxiety. We talk about why some teens struggle to make even small decisions, what perfectionism actually looks like, and the mistakes parents often make when trying to help. Becky also shares simple, powerful ways you can support your teen without taking over or walking on eggshells, even in those high-stress moments. More about Becky: Becky is a Certified Master Life Coach, former high school teacher, and mom with lived experience navigating anxiety. She’s the creator of the Stand Strong System - a holistic approach that helps anxious teens build resilience and teaches their parents how to truly support them. Her work is grounded in empathy, real-life tools, and a deep understanding of what teens and parents are really going through. Get your free resource here and tune in - this episode is full of practical advice, relatable stories, and mindset shifts that can really make a difference! Big hugs, Monica Crnogorac Next Steps Book a Free Discovery Call Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program Connect With Me on Instagram

64 | Understanding Panic vs. Anxiety Attacks in Teens with Dr. Amy Kranzler

2025-09-1627:21

Hi Parents! If your teen has ever had a panic attack or if you're not sure how to tell the difference between panic and anxiety, then this episode will help you better understand what they might be going through and how you can support them. This week, I’m joined by Dr. Amy Kranzler, licensed clinical psychologist and Chief Clinical Officer at Handspring Health, where she works with teens experiencing anxiety, depression, and emotional dysregulation. In our conversation, Amy breaks down the key differences between panic attacks and anxiety attacks and explains what panic disorder really is. You’ll learn how to respond if your teen is in the middle of a panic attack, what to avoid in those moments, and how to support teens who live in fear of having another one. We also talk about what evidence-based treatment for panic disorder looks like, and how parents play a vital role in that process. More About Dr. Amy Kranzler: Dr. Kranzler previously ran the adult DBT program at Montefiore Medical Center and was the Associate Director of the CBT Training Program. Amy brings a wealth of clinical experience and a passion for helping young people feel safe, seen, and supported in their mental health journey. If you’ve ever felt unsure how to support your teen through panic or the pressure to be perfect, this conversation will give you clarity, confidence, and practical tools you can start using right away. Big hugs, Monica Crnogorac Next Steps Book a Free Discovery Call Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program Connect With Me on Instagram

63 | How to Parent an Anxious Teen When You Struggle With Anxiety Featuring Dr. Jeanne Retief

2025-09-0932:59

Hi Parents! What happens when you’re the anxious one but you’re also the parent? In today’s episode, I’m joined by Dr. Jeanne Retief, trauma survivor, panic disorder warrior, and founder of FIGGI Beauty, to talk about the raw, unfiltered reality of parenting when you’re still learning how to feel safe in your own body. Jeanne opens up about the breaking point that made her reevaluate everything, and how she’s learning to heal not just for her child, but with her child. More About Jeanne: Dr. Jeanne Retief is a former international human rights expert turned mental wellness advocate, and the founder of FIGGI Beauty - a brand built on the belief that beauty and healing can coexist. After years of working in high-stakes legal environments, Jeanne was diagnosed with panic disorder, prompting her to reimagine not just her career, but her relationship with herself. Today, she combines her lived experience, academic insight, and soulful honesty to support others navigating anxiety, trauma, and parenthood. Jeanne is passionate about redefining what strength looks like - especially for women who’ve spent years holding it all together - and uses her platform to champion nervous system care, emotional safety, and truth-telling as tools for growth. We explore how anxiety shows up in the body, what it looks like to parent through panic, and why self-regulation isn’t about perfection, but about presence. Jeanne also shares how she began to break inherited emotional patterns and what it really means to model safety when your nervous system is still dysregulated. This is an episode for every parent who’s ever felt like they’re “too much” or “not enough.” Jeanne reminds us that healing is messy, parenting is vulnerable, and that sometimes the bravest thing you can do is just stay present. Big hugs, Monica Crnogorac Next Steps Book a Free Discovery Call Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program Connect With Me on Instagram

62 | How to Raise Emotionally Secure Teens by Meeting These 5 Core Needs with Nellie Harden

2025-09-0245:19

Hi Parents! How do we raise emotionally grounded, self-aware teens in a world full of noise, pressure, and distractions? This week’s guest, Nellie Harden, believes it starts by understanding the real needs your teen has, and showing up in ways that build worth, safety, and connection. Nellie is a mom of four, a trauma survivor, and founder of The 6570 Family Project - a movement focused on helping parents step into leadership during their teen’s most formative years. With a background in biology and psychology, she brings a refreshing blend of science, life experience, and heart to the conversation. In this episode, we explore the 5 core needs every teen has, how to recognize when those needs are going unmet, and what you can do starting today to become a steadier, more intentional presence in your child’s life. More About Nellie: Nellie Harden is a family life and leadership coach who guides parents through the often-challenging middle ground between childhood and adulthood. She empowers them to lead with purpose, so they can raise teens who are confident, resilient, and emotionally secure. Her work is rooted in the belief that every child is worthy, and that parents have the power to shape that belief by how they lead. If you're parenting an anxious or emotionally sensitive teen, this conversation will help you shift from managing chaos to creating connection. P.S. If you loved hearing from Nellie and want to dive deeper into her work, you can find her resources and everything about The 6570 Family Project right here. Big hugs, Monica Crnogorac Next Steps Book a Free Discovery Call Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program Connect With Me on Instagram

61 | Is My Teen Too Young to Be in a Relationship?

2025-08-2617:40

Hi Parents! Is your teen too young to be in a relationship? If teen dating triggers a mix of panic, protectiveness, and uncertainty, just know this is one of the most common fears parents face. For parents of anxious teens, this stage can bring a lot of fear and uncertainty. You might wonder if your child is emotionally ready, if they’ll get hurt, or if their self-esteem is tied too closely to someone else’s opinion. You might even have a family boundary like no dating until 16, but still worry how to enforce that without pushing your teen away. In this solo episode, I’m diving into one of the most common questions I hear: How do I know if my teen is ready for a relationship - and how do I talk to them about it without sounding like I’m panicking? We’ll explore what dating looks like for teens today, the average age they start exploring relationships, and how anxiety, both your teen’s and your own, can shape the conversation. I’ll walk you through how to create an open dialogue about dating, without losing your boundaries, your values, or your connection with your teen. Whether your teen is already dating or you’re just starting to think ahead, this episode is filled with clear guidance and supportive reminders to help you navigate this sensitive season with compassion and confidence. Big hugs, Monica Crnogorac Next Steps Book a Free Discovery Call Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program Connect With Me on Instagram

60 | Why College Planning Starts in 9th Grade with Lindsay Tanne

2025-08-1932:32

Hi Parents! What if preparing your teen for college didn’t have to be overwhelming or anxiety-inducing? In this episode, I’m joined by Lindsay Tanne, founder and CEO of LogicPrep, to unpack the college admissions process in a way that feels supportive and intentional. Lindsay brings a fresh, honest perspective to the world of college prep. She explains how parents can guide their teens without micromanaging, what really matters when choosing a school, and how to avoid common myths that lead to unnecessary stress. We also explore how parents can foster independence, reduce anxiety, and approach this season with more curiosity and less pressure. More About Lindsay: Lindsay Tanne launched LogicPrep over a decade ago while a student at Harvard. Today, her company is a global college admissions consultancy offering test preparation, academic support, and strategic guidance through every step of the college journey. With a team of over 50 advisors, coaches, and tutors, LogicPrep has helped thousands of families pursue higher education with less stress and more clarity. Lindsay’s mission is simple but powerful: to help students succeed in ways that reflect who they are, and to help parents stay connected along the way. Tune in to hear how you can support your teen’s journey to college with less pressure, more purpose, and a whole lot more peace. Big hugs, Monica Crnogorac Next Steps Book a Free Discovery Call Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program Connect With Me on Instagram

59 | Teen Suicide Prevention: How Parents Can Spot the Signs and Support Their Struggling Teen with Elliot Kallen

2025-08-1241:55

Hi Parents! What if the biggest warning sign your teen is struggling is silence? In today’s episode, I’m joined by Elliot Kallen, President of A Brighter Day, a nonprofit organization founded in memory of his son Jake, who tragically died by suicide at 19 years old. Elliot shares the heart-wrenching story behind A Brighter Day and how it has since grown into a powerful support system for teens and families navigating stress, depression and suicidal thoughts. More About Elliot: Elliot Kallen is the President and Co-Founder of A Brighter Day, a nonprofit dedicated to preventing teen suicide by providing free mental health toolkits, school-based events, and resources for both teens and parents. Since launching in 2015, the organization now reaches between 5,000 and 10,000 families each month. Elliot’s mission began with unimaginable loss. Jake never shared the pain he was carrying, until his final letter. That letter changed everything for Elliot and his family, exposing the silent battles many teens face and the urgent need for better conversations and accessible mental health support. What started as a personal tragedy has since become a national movement offering education, connection, and hope. In our conversation, Elliot opens up about what parents need to know - the signs that often go unnoticed, what to say when you’re worried, and why it’s so important to normalize mental health discussions at home. He offers practical tools, compassionate insight, and real hope for any parent who feels lost or unsure of how to help. Whether your teen has opened up about their struggles or tends to keep things in, this episode is a must-listen. You’ll walk away with powerful takeaways and actionable next steps - and most importantly, the reminder that you’re not alone in this. Big hugs, Monica Crnogorac Next Steps Book a Free Discovery Call Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program Connect With Me on Instagram

58 | How to Talk to Your Teen Daughter About What She’s Wearing Without Shame or Conflict

2025-08-0514:24

Hi Parents! Have you ever looked at your teen daughter’s outfit and thought, “Is that really what you’re wearing?” Maybe it’s a crop top, short shorts, or something that makes you pause and wonder how to respond without starting a full-blown argument before 8 a.m. Clothing choices can bring up a lot of big feelings, for both you and your teen. You want her to feel confident, body positive, and self-expressed but you also want her to understand what’s appropriate for school, family gatherings, or the world outside your home. And somewhere in the middle, your own anxiety gets triggered, often by your past, your fears, and the very real pressure to get it “right.” In this solo episode, I’m unpacking the layers behind these clothing conflicts. We’ll talk about why your teen might be dressing the way she is, how to respond without shame or shutdown, and what’s actually helpful when your instinct is to lay down the law. You’ll hear about the messaging girls receive around fashion, how peer pressure and limited options shape their wardrobe, and why setting boundaries doesn’t have to mean controlling your daughter’s self-expression. Big hugs, Monica Crnogorac Next Steps Book a Free Discovery Call Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program Connect With Me on Instagram

57 | The #1 Study Habit Teens Need to Reduce School Stress with Jessyka Coulter

2025-07-2929:37

Hi Parents! What if the secret to helping your anxious teen feel more confident at school wasn’t pushing harder or doing more, but teaching them how to study in a way that works for them? In today’s episode, I’m joined by Jessyka Coulter, CEO and Founder of Ace Cookie Tutoring and the creator of The NERDY Method. Jessyka shares how intentional study skills can transform a teen’s mindset, build confidence, and reduce academic anxiety. We explore why so many teens don't love to learn, what actually gets in their way, and how study habits rooted in strategy and support can shift everything. More about Jessyka: She’s a passionate educator and teen study skills coach who teaches teens how to study smarter, not harder, so they can learn to love learning again. Her work is all about equipping students with the tools they need to thrive and helping parents feel more supported along the way. Plus, we talk about Jessyka’s upcoming event, Learn It! Open Your Teen’s Mind and Feed It, a free back-to-school series launching August 4th. With over 30 expert interviews (including mine!) and practical tools on everything from study strategies to emotional regulation, it’s the perfect resource to start the school year with clarity and support. Big hugs, Monica Crnogorac Next Steps Book a Free Discovery Call Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program Connect With Me on Instagram

56 | From Anxiety to Confidence: The Power of Fitness for Teens with Neil Sheppard

2025-07-2241:40

Hi Parents! What if helping your anxious teen build confidence had less to do with what you say, and more to do with how they move their body? In today’s episode, I’m joined by Neil Sheppard, founder of the Inner Athlete system, to explore the powerful connection between movement and mental health. Neil shares how strength training, structure, and intentional physical activity can help teens manage anxiety, build emotional resilience, and reconnect with their sense of self. More About Neil: Neil Sheppard is a performance coach, the founder of the Inner Athlete system, and owner of Dynamic Sport Group in Oakville, Ontario. With a strong foundation in youth development, physical literacy, and strength and conditioning, Neil helps teens and athletes develop confidence, resilience, and a sense of emotional well-being through movement. His approach was born from personal experience - after years of high-level sport and physical labor, Neil faced multiple injuries and a loss of athletic identity. Stuck in the in-between of not injured enough for therapy, but not strong enough to train, he began rebuilding both physically and emotionally. That process laid the groundwork for the Inner Athlete system, which bridges the gap between rehab and performance. Today, Neil helps young people tap into the power of their bodies as a path to self-trust, mental strength, and long-term growth. We’ll dive into why movement can be such a powerful tool for self-regulation, how it boosts self-trust, and why progress is the mindset teens need most right now. Whether your teen is an athlete or just trying to feel more comfortable in their own skin, this conversation offers a fresh, practical lens on what it really takes to feel strong, physically and emotionally. Big hugs, Monica Crnogorac Next Steps Book a Free Discovery Call Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program Connect With Me on Instagram

55 | What Every Parent Needs to Know About Teen Anxiety with Monica Crnogorac

2025-07-1547:44

Hi Parents! This week, I’m switching things up and sharing a special conversation where I was the guest instead of the host. I recently joined Beth Hillman on her podcast, Parenting Post-Wilderness, to talk about one of the most important topics for parents today, teen anxiety. We covered what it looks like, how it often hides in plain sight, and what parents can do to better support their anxious teen, especially during the school year when demands are high and confidence can run low. In this episode, we explore the emotional experience of anxiety from a teen’s perspective, how parents can respond with empathy rather than fear, and why creating emotional safety is more powerful than trying to fix the problem. I also share a bit of my own story and why I’m so passionate about helping teens build resilience, self-trust, and coping tools that actually stick. Beth creates such a welcoming space for real, heartfelt conversations, and I’m honored to have joined her show. I hope this episode leaves you feeling more equipped, more grounded, and more connected to your teen, no matter where they are on their mental health journey. Tune in to listen, and if you find it helpful, pass it along to a fellow parent who needs it too. Big hugs, Monica Crnogorac Next Steps Book a Free Discovery Call Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program Connect With Me on Instagram

54 | How Parents Can Quiet the Inner Critic, Reclaim Confidence and Model Self-Love with Sue Erhart

2025-07-0853:56

Hi Parents! Have you ever noticed how the most critical voice in your life might be your own? That internal dialogue that questions every parenting decision, especially when your teen is struggling with anxiety can be exhausting. In today’s episode, I’m joined by Sue Erhart, author of Lose Your Critic for Good for a powerful conversation on what it really takes to quiet that inner voice and reconnect with your calm, confident center. Sue shares her deeply personal journey from a high-powered corporate career to becoming a guide for others seeking peace and purpose. We explore how perfectionism and pressure create disconnection, why conventional self-help tools often miss the mark, and how small shifts in awareness can lead to lasting change, without needing to burn everything down and start over. More about Sue: Sue Erhart spent decades as a corporate executive and attorney, operating in high-stakes environments where success was measured by external achievements. But behind the scenes, she was grappling with a harsh inner critic that left her feeling stuck, depleted, and out of alignment. After a personal transformation, Sue created a platform that blends grounded wisdom with spiritual insight to help others reclaim their power and inner clarity. Her book offers a step-by-step method to break free from the grip of self-judgment and step into a more aligned, fulfilling way of living. Now, she’s on a mission to help others, especially those who've spent years doing things “the hard way” - find a more compassionate path to joy, confidence, and inner freedom. If you're ready to let go of the mental noise and start parenting - and living - from a place of truth and trust, you won’t want to miss this episode. Big hugs, Monica Crnogorac Next Steps Book a Free Discovery Call Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program Connect With Me on Instagram

53 | Preparing Your Teen for Post-Secondary: A Summer Game Plan for Parents in Canada and the U.S.

2025-07-0116:35

Hi Parents! Are you wondering how to help your teen start thinking about college or university without the pressure? For many anxious teens, thinking about life after high school can bring more stress than clarity. The unknowns around applications, decisions, and deadlines can feel overwhelming - and let’s be honest, it can be overwhelming for you too. But summer offers a unique opportunity to begin the conversation in a calmer, more intentional way. In this solo episode, I’m walking you through how to gently open the door to your teen’s post-secondary future. We’ll talk about how to make the most of campus tours, how to start future-focused conversations without pushing them into panic mode, and why your role as a guide, not the decision-maker, is so important. You’ll hear a quick story from my own campus visit with my parents, and why so many teens tell me later that they wish they had done more of them. We’ll also go over what to say after a tour, how to help your teen compare schools in a practical way, and what application timelines look like for both Canadian and American parents. By the end of this episode, you’ll walk away with a summer game plan that helps reduce anxiety, create clarity, and support your teen in taking confident next steps, one conversation at a time. Big hugs, Monica Crnogorac Next Steps Book a Free Discovery Call Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program Connect With Me on Instagram

52 | The 5 Rights of Parenting & Why Self-Care Is a Superpower for Raising Anxious Teens with Holly Swenson

2025-06-2437:41

What if supporting your anxious teen didn’t mean constantly doing more - but instead, meant becoming more present, intentional, and self-aware in the moments that matter? In this episode, I’m joined by Holly Swenson - wellness blogger, registered nurse, and author of Stop, Drop, Grow, & Glow - to explore how conscious parenting, grounded in self-care and deep inner work, can reshape how we show up for our teens. More About Holly: Holly Swenson is a best-selling, award-winning author, and mom of four. Through her book Stop, Drop, Grow, & Glow, Holly offers a refreshing take on modern parenting - one rooted in mindfulness, purpose, and self-compassion. With her unique background as a nurse and mother, she empowers parents to slow down, shift their mindset, and lead from their values instead of stress or guilt. Holly’s “5 Rights of Parenting” invites parents to tune in to themselves, approach challenges with clarity, and create deeper, more authentic connections with their children. If you’ve ever questioned how to care for your teen without losing yourself in the process, this conversation is your permission slip to pause, reflect, and thrive alongside your child. Parenting can be hard - but it doesn’t have to feel like a constant struggle. Big hugs, Monica Crnogorac Next Steps Book a Free Discovery Call Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program Connect With Me on Instagram

51 | No School, No Structure, More Anxiety? How to Help Your Teen Thrive This Summer

2025-06-1718:25

Hi Parents! Are you worried about summer break feeling stressful? For parents of anxious teens, the end of the school year can bring more tension than relief. With no routine, more screen time, and long days filled with “what now?” moments, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the pressure to keep your teen busy, happy, and mentally well. Add in your own work schedule and responsibilities, and suddenly summer starts to feel less like a break and more like a juggling act. In this solo episode, I’m talking about what really happens when anxious teens lose the structure of school - and what you can do to help them feel more secure and supported during these unstructured months. You’ll hear why screens become such a tempting escape, how to gently build in a sense of purpose and routine without making it feel like summer school, and how to invite your teen into planning their days so they feel empowered, not controlled. I’ll also share a fun strategy I personally use with my friends - creating a shared summer list on a Google Doc. It’s a simple but powerful way to keep everyone connected and looking forward to things without the pressure of over-scheduling. We’ll also explore how to carve out space for your teen to help around the house - not every day, but enough to give them a sense of contribution and accountability. And if you’ve ever felt like you’re the entertainment committee 24/7, I’ve got thoughts on how to shift that dynamic too, so boredom doesn’t always fall back on you. This episode is filled with easy, doable strategies for creating a summer that feels a little more intentional, a little less chaotic, and a whole lot more connected. So if you’re already bracing yourself for the summer juggle, this one’s for you. Big hugs, Monica Crnogorac Next Steps Book a Free Discovery Call Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program Connect With Me on Instagram

50 | Good vs. Bad Video Games: How to Help Teen Boys Build Healthy Habits with Screen Time

2025-06-1001:00:16

Hi Parents! Do screen time battles leave you feeling frustrated, drained, or like you're constantly walking on eggshells around your teen? In today's digital world, navigating boundaries around video games, phones, and other screens can feel like a daily power struggle - especially when anxiety is in the mix. In this episode, I’m joined by Scott Novis, a former Disney executive, tech entrepreneur, and father of three who’s spent years helping families create healthier digital habits. Together, we dive into how to set screen time boundaries without the daily meltdowns - and how to foster more connection and cooperation in the process. More about Scott: Scott Novis is a serial entrepreneur, author, and former Vice President at The Walt Disney Company with a background in engineering and game development. He’s the founder of GameTruck, the first-ever mobile video game party company, which has now served over 10 million guests across the U.S. Scott is also a passionate advocate for helping families find balance in a tech-driven world. Through his speaking, writing, and innovation, he helps parents and kids build more connected, intentional relationships with technology - without the yelling, nagging, or shutdowns. Scott shares practical strategies that help teens transition off screens without explosions, explains what’s really happening in their brains when they lose themselves in a game, and how to avoid the all-too-common trap of punishments that backfire. We also explore how anxiety can show up around screen time and how parents can recognize when their teen is using screens to self-soothe - or avoid something deeper. You’ll walk away from this episode with tools to create smoother routines, reduce conflict, and better understand your teen’s emotional needs when it comes to digital spaces. Scott's insights will help you shift from feeling powerless to empowered, and from reactive to proactive in your parenting. Big hugs, Monica Crnogorac Next Steps Book a Free Discovery Call Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program Connect With Me on Instagram

49 | Healing Your Triggers to Support Your Teen’s Mental Health with Shelly Robinson

2025-06-0339:33

Hi Parents! What if the key to helping your anxious teen wasn’t just about them - but started with you? In this episode, we’re exploring the powerful connection between emotional wounds and how they impact parenting, especially when raising teens who struggle with anxiety. I’m joined by Shelly Robinson - certified trauma-informed parent coach, founder of Raising Yourself, and mom of two teens. Shelly specializes in helping parents reconnect with themselves so they can show up more calmly and intentionally in their parenting. Her work invites parents to move beyond reaction and into meaningful, heart-centered connection with their kids. More About Shelly: Shelly Robinson is a conscious parenting coach, the founder of Raising Yourself, and the creator of the Connected Kid Toolkit. She helps parents break generational cycles and build emotionally connected homes, with a global community of more than half a million parents engaging with her work. Through her warm, insight-driven approach, Shelly empowers caregivers to heal unresolved childhood wounds and raise their children with greater clarity, compassion, and presence. Her insights have been featured on MindValley, GoZen, Raised Good, and Good News LA, and her work continues to support families in creating grounded, healing-centered homes. Together, we unpack how your triggers are actually invitations, clues that point toward unhealed parts of yourself. Shelly breaks down how self-awareness and self-compassion can change how you connect with your teen, especially when they’re overwhelmed, shut down, or angry. We also dive into what it means to normalize tough emotions, navigate conflict without projecting, and show up as a calmer, more grounded version of yourself. By the end of this conversation, you’ll feel seen, supported, and empowered with actionable tools to parent from a place of awareness, not anxiety. Because when you heal - you create space for your teen to heal, too. Big hugs, Monica Crnogorac Next Steps Book a Free Discovery Call Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program Connect With Me on Instagram

48 | Should I Let My Teen Drink Alcohol Under My Supervision?

2025-05-2718:28

Hi Parents! Have you ever wondered if letting your teen have a drink at home might teach them to be more responsible with alcohol? It’s a question many parents ask themselves - especially when they’re trying to balance trust, safety, and the reality that teens are exposed to alcohol earlier than ever. In today’s episode, I’m diving into one of the most common (and complicated) parenting dilemmas: should I let my teen drink underage, especially if it’s under my supervision? I’ll walk you through the latest research, debunk some of the myths about “safe drinking environments,” and give you a deeper understanding of how alcohol impacts your teen’s developing brain and emotional well-being. We’ll also explore the connection between underage drinking and anxiety, and why some teens use alcohol to manage their emotions or mask inner struggles. If you’ve ever worried that your teen might be using substances to cope - or you’re just not sure how to even start this conversation - this episode is for you. I’ll share practical, real-world strategies for how to approach the topic of alcohol with your teen in a way that builds trust, encourages healthy decision-making, and opens the door to honest communication. We’ll also talk about the long-term risks of early alcohol use, why supervised drinking isn’t always protective, and how to model boundaries that still allow for connection. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clearer sense of how alcohol affects the anxious teen brain, why setting limits matters more than you think, and how to guide your teen with confidence - without creating fear or disconnect. Big hugs, Monica Crnogorac Next Steps Book a Free Discovery Call Visit My Website for More Information on My 8-Week Program Connect With Me on Instagram

#box-pro-ellipsis-17595316770726{-webkit-line-clamp:2;}Parenting Anxious Teens | Parenting Teens, Managing Teen Anxiety, Parenting Strategies

Parenting Anxious Teens | Parenting Teens, Managing Teen Anxiety, Parenting Strategies