Growing Together- Navigating the Rollercoaster of Adolescence Together with Dr. Kimberley Palmiotto

She pulls away. ..You try harder. She slams the door... You wonder if you're losing her. In Part 3 of this 4-part series on navigating middle school, Dr. Kimberley Palmiotto explores one of the hardest parts of parenting a tween girl: how to stay connected when she seems to want nothing to do with you. You’ll learn: *Why the push-pull dynamic is wired into her brain and not your fault *How to shift from control to connection, without losing boundaries *Tools to build emotional safety, even when your daughter is shut down *How to model repair after conflict and open the door to communication *The 3 C’s that transform your relationship: Calm, Curiosity, and Compassion Whether you’re dealing with eye rolls, slammed doors, or emotional shutdowns, this episode gives you language, mindset shifts, and repair tools to help you be the safe base she still needs, even when she acts like she doesn’t.

Middle school friendships aren’t just complicated, they feel critical to your daughter’s sense of identity, safety, and self-worth. In Part 2 of this 4-part series, Dr. Kim dives deep into what’s happening in your daughter’s outside world. She explores things like friendships, peer pressure, social status, and the rising tide of relational aggression. In this episode, you’ll learn: *Why belonging feels like survival to the tween brain *What “mean girl” behavior really signals and how to respond *How to support your daughter whether she’s being excluded or doing the excluding *The difference between popularity and true friendship (and how to help her know it too) *Tools to help her build empathy, boundaries, and confidence without losing herself This one is for every mom who has watched her daughter walk into changing middle school friendships and wondered, “What do I say? What do I do?” You’ll leave this episode with tools, reflection prompts, and connection strategies that help you be the safe, steady voice in her social world, even when things get messy.

Middle school is more than a milestone, it’s a deep, messy, and transformational chapter for your daughter… and for you. This first episode of Season 2 rolls out part 1 of a 4 part series on navigating Middle School for Moms of Girls. In this episode, Dr. Kimberley Palmiotto helps you understand what’s really going on inside your tween’s changing brain, body, and emotional world. From hypersensitive feelings to identity experimentation and peer comparison, this season can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to walk it alone. You’ll learn: * Why your daughter can’t always explain how she feels (and what to say instead) * How her brain development impacts emotional regulation and behavior * What it looks like to offer safety without shame * The 3 things she needs most from you in this phase (even if she can’t say them) Whether your daughter is moody, melting down, or changing before your eyes, this episode will help you respond with presence, compassion, and confidence.

In this episode, we talk about a parenting tool that is underestimated: tone of voice. As moms of tween and teen girls, how we say things often matters more than what we say. During adolescence, a girl’s brain is rewiring and more reactive to emotional cues—especially tone. Your voice becomes her inner voice, shaping how she sees herself and how she handles relationships in the future. Dr. Kim breaks down the science behind this sensitivity, shares practical tools to shift your tone toward calm and connection, and reveals how everyday moments of communication leave lasting emotional imprints. You’ll learn how to avoid the “tone traps” of sarcasm, correction, and dismissive language—and replace them with language that nurtures confidence, emotional safety, and resilience. If you’ve ever wondered why your daughter reacts so strongly even when you're not “yelling,” this episode is for you. Tune in to learn how to use your voice not as a weapon or a wedge—but as a bridge.

“I’m her mom, not her friend.” It’s a phrase many moms wear like armor—especially when emotions run high or boundaries are being tested. But what if there is more and this mindset isn't working as well as we think it is? In this episode, Dr. Palmiotto unpacks one of the most common parenting myths and offers a clear, compassionate look at the three foundational parenting styles: authoritarian, permissive, and authoritative. You’ll learn: ✨ Why your parenting style matters more than you think ✨ The emotional impact of each approach—especially on girls ✨ How the “mom vs. friend” belief can create disconnection (and what to do instead) ✨ What daughters actually need from us to grow into confident, emotionally grounded women Dr. Kim shares research-backed insights, relatable examples, and a refreshing perspective on how to be the kind of mother your daughter listens to, learns from, and leans on—even when things get hard. Whether you’ve been feeling unsure, stretched thin, or stuck in old patterns, this episode is your invitation to parent with more clarity, connection, and confidence. Find the printable resource "The Parenting Styles Cheat Sheet" at https://www.nurturinggirls.com/PodcastResources

If your go-to parenting tools are falling flat and your connection feels like it’s slipping through your fingers, this episode is here to meet you right in that tension. We’ll unpack why the old scripts—rewards, punishments, even heartfelt reasoning—stop working in the tween and teen years (hint: it’s not because you’re doing it wrong). You’ll learn what’s happening in her brain when she seems impossible to reach, how emotional safety shifts everything, and what to say in moments that usually spiral.

You’re trying to hold it together—but your daughter is spiraling, and honestly… so are you. In this episode, we’re getting real about what it means to hold space when your teen is overwhelmed—and your own emotions are bubbling just beneath the surface. We’ll talk about why these moments feel so hard (hint: your nervous system is doing exactly what it was designed to do), and how to bring calm, connection, and clarity back into the room—without needing the perfect words. I’ll walk you through the T.A.P. Method—a simple, grounding tool you can use to reconnect in those emotionally charged moments. Plus, I’ll share a powerful real-life example, and a free printable “fridge card” from my Connection Kit so you can practice this at home. You don’t have to be perfect—you just have to be present. Let’s take this one breath at a time.

Why do so many confident girls begin to shrink during adolescence? In this episode we dive into the emotional and developmental forces behind self-doubt and comparison — and how moms can help their daughters rebuild self-worth from the inside out. We’ll explore how it is related to the adolescent brain, the impact of social media and peer dynamics, and the quiet ways perfectionism creeps in. You’ll learn practical, research-backed strategies to interrupt the cycle of negative self-talk and nurture lasting confidence — without needing to “fix” your daughter. This episode is packed with insight, validation, and tools you can use today — including a free download, Say This, Not That: Reframing Self-Talk, designed to help moms and daughters shift harmful inner narratives into empowering ones. If your daughter is struggling to believe in herself — or if you’re wondering how to show up with more compassion and less pressure — this one’s for you.

In this episode, we explore one of the most powerful but often overlooked skills for tween and teen girls: Empathy. How do we help our daughters navigate friendships, conflicts, and social pressures with emotional intelligence rather than just reacting? In today’s fast-paced digital world, where snarky comebacks and digital communication dominates, it’s more important than ever to teach our girls how to balance kindness with confidence. We break down what the research says about empathy’s long-term benefits, from stronger friendships to future career success. Plus, you'll hear some practical tools for moms to help their daughters build emotional intelligence, navigate conflicts, and develop true connection with others. Whether your daughter struggles to see different perspectives or needs help handling mean girl drama, this episode is packed with insightful advice and actionable steps. Make sure to check out the free handout "7 ways to model empathy for your daughter" at https://www.nurturinggirls.com/PodcastResources (Episode 11)

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Gina Calderone, a physical therapist specializing in the mind-body connection, to explore how emotional stress manifests in our bodies—and how it’s unconsciously passed down through generations. We discuss the hidden impact of unspoken emotions, the weight of self-sacrifice, and why so many mothers hold stress in their shoulders while their daughters feel it in their gut. Dr. Calderone shares insights on how we can break these cycles, teach our daughters (and ourselves) to release stored tension, and embrace a new way of healing that acknowledges the deep connections between emotional and physical well-being. If you’ve ever wondered why your daughter’s anxiety or stomach pain seems so familiar—or why you feel burdened in ways you can’t explain—this episode will change the way you think about stress, health, and generational healing. Find the Resources or thie episode here: https://www.nurturinggirls.com/PodcastResources

As girls transition from elementary to middle school, their confidence often takes a hit and many times this is directly related to negative self-talk that starts to creep into their daily thoughts. In this episode, we dive into the science behind negative self-talk, why the teenage brain is wired to overanalyze, and how social pressures amplify self-criticism. Join us as we explore practical strategies to help teen girls recognize and reframe negative thoughts, develop self-compassion, and build resilience. For show notes and resources please visit: https://www.NurturingGirls.com/PodcastResources

Teen girls today are feeling immense pressure to have their lives figured out—leading to anxiety, loneliness, and even an existential crisis. In this episode of we explore why so many teen girls struggle with self-doubt, uncertainty about their future, and a deep sense of loneliness. Rather than focusing on a grand life purpose, the key to helping them is fostering connection, belonging, and a sense of being needed. We dive into research on existential loneliness, why teens feel isolated, and how small actions—like volunteering or engaging in their community—can help them feel valued and grounded. 🔹 Why traditional reassurance ("You have time to figure it out!") often backfires 🔹 The four categories of existential loneliness and how they impact your daughter 🔹 How volunteering provides immediate & social purpose to help feel less alone 🔹 Practical ways to support your teen without overwhelming her with "solutions" By shifting the focus from "figuring out the future" to "finding meaning in the present," we can help our daughters navigate adolescence with more confidence and resilience Find all the Printable Resources at: www.nurturinggirls.com/PodcastResources

In this powerful part 2 of my discussion with Dr. JoAnn Finkelstein, we do a deep dive into the hidden ways sexism impacts parenting, relationships, and the lives of teen girls. Topics include: *How society encourages competition between girls *How focusing too much on appearance can hurt their ability to think & perform *How girls are often taught to hide their anger, which prevents them from feeling confident and deserving. Dr. Finkelstein shares actionable strategies for moms to help their daughters embrace their full range of emotions, develop their voices of resistance, and thrive in a world that often demands they diminish themselves. This episode is a must-listen for parents eager to foster self-worth, resilience, and open dialogue with their daughters. For all the resources and references from this episode visit www.NurturingGirls.com/PodcastResources And find Dr. Finkelstein’s book and newsletter at www.joannfinkelstein.com

In this, part 1, thought-provoking episode of the I talk to Dr. Jo-Ann Finkelstein, psychologist and author of the new book, Sexism and Sensibility. Together, we explore the subtle yet pervasive ways sexism impacts girls and women, from "pink hockey stick stories" to the harmful effects of social media. Dr. Finkelstein shares her personal journey and professional insights on how societal expectations shape girls' self-esteem, body image, and sense of potential. She offers actionable strategies for parents to help their daughters critically navigate the underlying sexism we all encounter as women ( including with social media ) and embrace their authentic selves. This episode is packed with eye-opening perspectives and practical advice you don’t want to miss. There was so much information that I had to break it into 2 episodes so... Stay tuned for bonus episode - Part 2 of this conversation- releasing next week! Find Dr. Finkelstein and all her links on her Website: www.joannfinkelstein.com You can also find all the resources from this episode at: www.nurturinggirls.com/PodcastResources

Do you ever feel like your influence as a mom fades as your daughter grows into her tween and teen years? In this episode, we uncover the surprising truth: your presence is more impactful than you might think. From groundbreaking studies on risk-taking to practical strategies for navigating conflict, this episode dives into how moms uniquely shape their daughters’ brains, decision-making, and emotional health. We’ll explore: The fascinating science behind the research. Why your relationship with your daughter is key to reducing risky behavior. How to handle conflict with compassion and build trust through positive interactions. Whether you’re facing eye rolls or silent treatments, this episode is packed with insights and actionable tips to help you strengthen your bond and guide your daughter through adolescence. Tune in to learn how to turn everyday moments into opportunities for connection and growth. Don’t forget: Download the free handout from the show notes to reflect on your own teen years and deepen your understanding of your daughter! Find all the resources at: https://www.nurturinggirls.com/PodcastResources

In this episode, my daughter and I are joined by Dr. Brooke Jeffy, a board-certified dermatologist specializing in pediatric skincare and founder of the youth skincare brand, BTWN. Dr. Jeffy shares valuable insights into developing healthy skincare habits for tweens and teens, the importance of a simple skincare routine, and the risks of using inappropriate or excessive products at a young age. We address common skincare questions, debunk myths perpetuated by social media, and explore how parents can guide their daughters toward effective and safe skincare practices. Highlights include a discussion on the significance of sunscreen, managing skincare routines for different ages, and how to navigate the overwhelming world of skincare products marketed to young girls. Dr. Jeffy also provides actionable tips to help moms start meaningful conversations with their daughters about skincare while emphasizing the importance of educating them about credible information sources! If you are interested in the webinar referenced in the episode you can find the Turning Teen Skin School for T(w)eens webinar here: https://turning-teen-online-workshops.teachable.com/p/skin-school-safe-skin-care-for-t-w-eens You can find Dr. Jeffy on IG and TikTok @BrookeJeffyMD Her skincare line for tweens & teens is here: www.meetBTWN.com Find all the resources discussed in this episode here: https://www.nurturinggirls.com/PodcastResources

In this episode we explore the world of boundaries—what they are, why they matter, and how they shape the mother-daughter relationship during the teen years. Boundaries are essential for building trust, autonomy, and respect, but they can also be challenging to navigate as our daughters grow and seek independence. Boundaries aren’t just about rules—they’re about empowering your daughter to navigate relationships, challenges, and life with confidence and self-respect. Whether you’re struggling to maintain boundaries at home or looking for ways to prepare your teen for real-world situations, this episode has you covered. You can access all the free downloads and other resources here: : www.nurturinggirls.com/PodcastResources

In this episode we chat with Dr. Tara Rawana, a naturopathic doctor based in Ontario, Canada, dedicated to helping tweens and teens achieve optimal mental and physical health. Dr. Tara explains the importance of having conversations about puberty and periods with girls, as it helps them understand and appreciate their bodies better. She answers some questions from my girls and dispels common myths about periods as well as highlighting the need to recognize when something is wrong in their bodies. Dr. Tara dives into a variety of topics that can be uncomfortable and anxiety-provoking for girls (and their moms), making it less stressful and clarifying a few myths along the way. We also discusses the importance of empowering girls through puberty and helps shift the narrative around this pivotal life stage by helping young girls embrace their bodies with confidence and understanding. She created Empowered Tween, a program for moms and their daughters that talks about menstruation, how to foster an open dialogue about menstruation with children, and when to start this conversation. Find her Ebook “Puberty Simplified: How to Talk to Your Daughter About Her Period” at TaraRawana.com Learn more about her Mental Health Workshops for Students, Teachers & Parents at allaboutmentalempowerment.org

Welcome to the first episode of Growing Together, the podcast where Dr. Kimberley Palmiotto dives into the real, raw, and relatable journey of parenting tween and teen girls. In this heartfelt debut, Dr. Palmiotto shares her vision for Growing Together—a place for moms to gather wisdom, practical strategies, and expert insights. This episode sets the stage by exploring the importance of learning from parenting challenges, understanding our values, and managing emotional triggers that often show up in mother-daughter relationships. Dr. Palmiotto discusses how self-reflection and owning our “stuff” can help prevent generational patterns from interfering in our daughters' lives, creating a more supportive and trusting bond. Plus, she emphasizes the vital role of leading with emotional support, so your daughter can build resilience and navigate adolescence with confidence. LINKS: Find the Family Agenda and Core Values Worksheet downloads here: https://www.nurturinggirls.com/podcastresources