Raising Happy Teens

Is your teen hanging with the "wrong crowd"? This week, I discuss the tricky topic of negative friendships in the teen years. I’ll talk about why teens gravitate towards certain friends, and how to navigate the situation without pushing them further away.  Learn how to: Communicate effectively without criticizing or lecturing. Set clear expectations and consequences. Become a safe space for your teen and their friends. Find alternative influences and leadership opportunities. Get support for yourself as you navigate this challenging phase. -- Join my free parent group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apply to work with me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on Instagram

Summer is upon us, and you know what that means? More downtime for your teenager… and possibly a lot more screen time than you'd like. In this episode, I will share some strategies to help your teen ditch the phone and have a fun and balanced summer break. Topics include: The Summer Wheel: How to use this tool to help your teenager find balance in their daily schedule The 7 Essentials of a Well-Rounded Summer A fresh perspective on managing screen time How to help your teenager understand the meaning of time well spent and be more intentional with their time -- Join my free parent group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apply to work with me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on Instagram

In this episode, I’m joined by Mileva Repaski, co-founder of the Phone Free Schools Movement.  Mileva shares her personal story and how she, Sabine Polack, and Kim Whitman have banded together to ensure a better future for our children. The movement’s mission is to provide youth the freedom to excel academically and develop socially without the distractions, pressures, and harms of phones and social media during the school day. Topics discussed include:  The negative impacts of constant connection, including anxiety, loneliness, and academic setbacks. What it means to be a Phone-Free School and practical steps for successful implementation. The benefits of removing phones from the school environment for students and teachers. Parent concerns about student safety and emergency communication. Stories from schools that have transformed their learning environment by going phone-free. How YOU can get involved - parents, teachers, and students alike. Resources: Phone Free Schools Movement Website Get involved Instagram Facebook "The Anxious Generation" by Jonathan Haigt -- Join my free parent group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apply to work with me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on Instagram

Feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and disconnected from your kids? You're not alone. Many moms experience mom burnout, a state of intense exhaustion and disengagement related to parenting. In this episode, I share my personal experience with burnout and discuss how to spot it and what to do about it.  Topics discussed include: Understanding Mom Burnout: what it is, why it happens, and how it can impact your well-being. Recognizing the Signs: Common symptoms of mom burnout, from emotional depletion to questioning your parenting abilities. Strategies for Recovery: Healthy coping mechanisms to overcome burnout, rebuild your well-being, and rediscover the joy of motherhood. This episode is for you if: You're constantly drained and emotionally depleted. Finding joy in motherhood feels like a struggle. You question your ability as a parent. You experience "mom rage" or intense frustration. You're disconnected from your partner or social circle. You rely on unhealthy coping mechanisms like overdrinking, overeating, and doom-scrolling. Mentioned in this episode: Episode 16: Parental Burnout: Causes, Signs, & Solutions -- Join my free parent group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apply to work with me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on Instagram

Is your teen struggling with anxiety? In this episode, we continue our exploration of Jonathan Haidt's "The Anxious Generation," diving deep into the impact of the "great rewiring" of childhood on BOTH BOYS AND GIRLS. Focus areas: Social Media's Impact on Girls: Learn how social media use can be particularly harmful to girls' mental health and self-esteem. Boys & Disengagement: Discover the unique challenges boys face, including disconnection from the real world and the rise of online gaming and pornography. Solutions for Parents, Schools & Governments: We wrap up the series with actionable solutions to help teens thrive. Learn how to: Foster healthy real-world experiences Set healthy boundaries for screen time and phones Help your teen develop purpose and direction This episode is for YOU if: You're a parent concerned about your teen's anxiety or social media use. You want to understand the challenges facing boys today. You're looking for practical solutions to support your teen's mental well-being. -- Join my free parent group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apply to work with me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on Instagram

We are the first generation of parents raising kids in the age of smartphones.  As such, there is very little guidance around finding a healthy balance of screen time and non screen time activities.  At the same time, we’re seeing a concerning rise in mental health issues in our teenagers.  Coincidence?  Research is saying no. In this episode, I discuss the connection between increased anxiety in teens and the rise of smartphones using the book “The Anxious Generation" by Jonathan Haidt.   Key Points Discussed: The correlation between the introduction of smartphones and a rise in teen anxiety, depression, self-harm, and suicide. Play-based childhood (active, social interaction) being replaced by phone-based childhoods (disembodied, asynchronous communication). How Phones hinder the development of social and emotional skills. The opportunity cost of a phone-based childhood (social deprivation, sleep deprivation, attention fragmentation). Jonathan Haidt's proposed solution: "Building a ladder from childhood to adulthood" - a gradual introduction of responsibilities and independence. This is the first of two episodes on the topic, so stay tuned for Part 2! -- Join my free parent group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apply to work with me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on Instagram

In this episode, I dive into the common hurdles parents face when raising teenage boys. I'll also offer actionable strategies to build a strong foundation of trust and understanding with your son. Topics discussed include:  Common challenges: From emotional withdrawal to risky behaviors, we'll discuss what to expect and why they act the way they do. Building trust: How to lay a solid foundation of trust and understanding with your son. Communication hacks: 4 proven tips to get your teen boy to actually talk to you! You'll also learn: Why clear limits and consequences are essential. How to avoid punishment and focus on positive reinforcement. The best ways to connect with your son, even when he seems distant. Remember, your teen son still needs you! This episode will equip you with the tools to navigate this crucial stage and build a strong and supportive relationship. Mentioned in this episode: 53. Why is My Teen So Angry -- Join my free parent group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apply to work with me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on Instagram

A little over a year ago, I dropped an episode tackling the do's and don'ts of parenting a teenager, and guess what? I'm back for round two! Now, I'm not exactly the type to stick to every rule, but I do appreciate a solid guideline or two. That's precisely what I'm serving up in this latest installment. Join me as I unpack 7 essential do's and 7 must-avoid don'ts when it comes to navigating the teenage years. From the art of embracing boredom to celebrating individual quirks, I'm covering it all. Now, you know me—I'm all about shaking things up and questioning norms. So, fair warning: this advice might not be conventional, but it's definitely worth a listen. Tune in, filter it through your own values, and let's challenge the status quo together. Mentioned in this episode: 62. The Do's and Don'ts of Parenting a Teenager 64. Adulting 101: Life Skills Every Teenager Should Learn We're All Weird: The Rise of Tribes and the End of Normal - Seth Godin -- Join my free parent group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apply to work with me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on Instagram

Raise your hand if you remember your first love. We all do! Because it's all so exciting and new and also so incredibly crushing at the same time. Now you have a teenager ready to do the same... gasp! But fear not! I am here to help you through it. In this episode, we'll explore the 6 stages of teen love (crush, connection, "official," settling in, crumbling, breakup) and give you tips to navigate them all. Learn how to: Spot the signs your teen is interested in someone Be a safe space for them to talk about their feelings Foster healthy communication & boundaries Identify red flags in unhealthy relationships Support your teen through breakups (they'll happen!) This episode is perfect for parents who want to: Understand their teen's dating life Help their teen build healthy relationships Be a supportive rock during love's ups and downs Mentioned in this episode: Episode 24. Tips for Teen Dating Teenage Love - Slick Rick -- Join my free parent group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apply to work with me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on Instagram

Doing something that goes against the grain can feel scary, especially when it comes to parenting. What will they think? What if it's a mistake? What if this all blows up in my face? All of these thoughts have gone through my head as I've made parenting decisions along the way. Decisions like pulling them from public school, finding a program that better suited their needs, and trying alternative approaches to mental health care. I found something different because the old way of doing things wasn't working. And I wanted something better for my family. I'm starting to see more parents challenging the norm and I'm here for it! The wave of a new paradigm in parenting is rising, and that's what this week's podcast episode is all about. Topics discussed include: The Old Rulebook's Toll: The cost of hidden feelings, disconnection, a fear of failure, and a focus on punishment over understanding. The New Rules of Connection: The impact of open communication, building trust, and prioritizing mental well-being.  Self-Doubt & Isolation: Strategies to overcome fears, trust your gut, and have the courage to do things differently. If you're wanting something different and better for your teen, this episode is for you. -- Join my free parent group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apply to work with me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on Instagram

In this podcast episode, I discuss type A and type B personality types and the challenges that type A parents face when raising a teenager. I'll explain the characteristics of type A and type B personalities and share my experience of transitioning from type B to type A. I'll also provide tips for type A parents who have a type B teen and offer advice on how to be a more laid-back parent. Get ready to learn about: How your drive to achieve can impact your teen 5 common struggles, from pushing your teen too hard to letting emotions take over How personality clashes can arise between high-achieving parents and laid-back teens Tips for managing stress, focusing on the bigger picture, and letting go of control Ways Type A parents can become more like Type B parents So, if you're a Type A parent (or suspect you might be!), this episode is for you! -- Join my free parent group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apply to work with me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on Instagram

In this episode, I invited Marriage Coach, Michelle Purta on to discuss the challenges of raising teenagers while maintaining a happy and healthy marriage. We talk about the importance of effective communication and conflict resolution so that you can remain connected as a couple.  Topics discussed include: Effective communication and conflict resolution strategies How prioritizing your marriage and creating a shared family vision can strengthen your relationship Why understanding and compassion are key in navigating differing parenting styles Why taking care of yourself is crucial for maintaining a healthy marriage and family dynamic Where to find Michelle: Website The Marriage and Motherhood Podcast Instagram -- ⁠⁠Join my free parent group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apply to work with me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on Instagram

Raising a teenager can be tough for so many reasons. We question every decision, wondering if that fight over curfew or the forgotten permission slip somehow means we're failing them.   But here's the secret many parents don't realize: raising a teenager isn't just about shaping them, it's about shaping you. All of the challenges are opportunities for growth, giving you the chance to become an even better person. In this episode, I share personal stories as well as a few client stories. You'll learn: Why your teenager's struggles can be a mirror to your own unresolved issues How your past shapes your parenting (and not always in helpful ways) 5 actionable steps to turn things around and become a more confident parent This episode is for you if: You feel triggered by your teenager's behavior You suspect your own childhood experiences are impacting your parenting You're ready to heal old wounds and become a better person -- ⁠⁠Join my free parent group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apply to work with me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on Instagram

In this episode, we're diving deep into the world of parent groups and why they're absolutely essential for anyone raising a teenager. You'll learn: Why raising a teen can feel so isolating (and what to do about it) 9 ways parent groups can benefit YOU How to overcome common hesitations about joining a group This episode is for you if: You feel alone and isolated while raising a teenager You're looking for support and encouragement from other parents going through the same thing You're tired of feeling like you're constantly questioning your parenting decisions You want to feel more confident and effective when parenting your teenager -- Mentioned in this episode: The Art of Non-Reactive Parenting Masterclass Episode 100: Teen Loneliness & Parental Isolation -- ⁠⁠Join my free parent group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apply to work with me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on Instagram

Is your teenager's slamming door echoing in your soul? Are meltdowns (theirs or yours) becoming a regular feature in your home? You might be a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), and parenting a teenager can feel like walking a tightrope blindfolded. In this episode, I’ll shed light on the unique challenges and hidden gifts of HSP parents navigating the teenage years. Topics discussed include: How your empathy allows you to truly understand your teen's emotional rollercoaster. Strategies to manage your own overwhelm when your teen's emotions are running high. How to set healthy boundaries that keep you grounded without pushing your teen away. This episode is for you if: You suspect you're an HSP and your teen's drama feels extra intense. You struggle to manage your own emotions amidst your teen's angst. You crave practical tools to create a calmer, more connected relationship with your teen. Not sure if you're a HSP? Take this free online quiz. Mentioned in this episode: Supporting a Highly Sensitive Teen Free masterclass for parents of teens called The Art of Non-Reactive Parenting.  If you’d like calmer communication and a better connection with your teenager, this class is for you.  ⁠WATCH HERE -- ⁠⁠Join my free parent group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apply to work with me⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on Instagram

Is your house a warzone of bickering siblings? You're not alone! This episode dives into the five main types of sibling dynamics and explores why conflict between siblings is actually a good thing. Topics discussed include: *Common causes of sibling rivalry *How to effectively resolve conflicts, including 7 steps to guide you through the process. *How to reduce future fighting and create a more peaceful home environment for everyone. -- Mentioned in this episode: Free masterclass for parents of teens, The Art of Non-Reactive Parenting.  If you’d like calmer communication and a better connection with your teenager, this class is for you.  WATCH HERE -- ⁠Join my free parent group⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Apply to work with me⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on Instagram

In this episode, I’m having a conversation with my friend and former client, Michelle Gauthier about why so many moms are feeling overwhelmed and dissatisfied with life. This is something I've struggled with as have many of my clients. It's easy to just accept this way of life, but surprisingly just as simple to do something about it. If you're a working mom, this episode is for you! Topics discussed: * Why so many moms are feeling overwhelmed and dissatisfied with life * Where the drive to do more comes from * The importance of asking for help and outsourcing tasks * How being more relaxed and present in your life translates to a better relationship with your teen -- Michelle is a professional life coach who helps busy, overwhelmed women create a more calm and intentional life. She is also the host of the Overwhelmed Working Woman podcast. www.michellegauthier.com Overwhelmed Working Woman podcast Instagram -- ⁠Join my free parent group⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Apply to work with me⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Follow me on Instagram

This episode offers a simple yet powerful framework for navigating this unpredictable phase of parenting: the 3 E's of Parenting a Teenager. Topics discussed include: How your emotional state impacts your interactions with your teen. Learn practical tips for managing your energy and staying present. Letting go of preconceived notions and allowing your teen to explore their own identity. Discover how releasing expectations can lead to a more peaceful and connected relationship. Building trust and understanding through active listening, empathy, and authentic communication. Explore ways to connect with your teen on a deeper level. This episode will help you: Simplify your approach to parenting a teenager. Reduce stress and frustration in your relationship with your teen. Build a stronger, more trusting connection with your teen. Episode mentioned: Letting Go of Expectations: The Key for Better Parenting for Teenagers -- ⁠Join my free parent group⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Apply to work with me⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Follow me on Instagram

Strict?  Me?  Never!  That’s what you may be thinking.  But strictness is a spectrum.  And sometimes parents can teeter into harmful righty without even realizing it.   In this episode, I explore why some parents lean towards strictness, signs that you might be overly strict, and the effects it can have on your teenager. Key Points Covered: Differentiating between authoritative and authoritarian parenting styles, and the spectrum within. Recognizing behaviors like zero tolerance for mistakes, excessive rules, and lack of room for discussion or natural consequences. Exploring why parents might be stricter regarding grades and romantic relationships, and the underlying motivations. How strict parenting can make teens feel inadequate, voiceless, and stressed, impacting their self-esteem and emotional well-being. Examining reasons like the need for control, cultural influences, emotional instability, and lack of positive parenting skills. Practical steps you can take to ease up on strictness, including self-reflection, embracing changing relationships, and seeking support. Article used in this episode -- ⁠Join my free parent group⁠ ⁠Apply to work with me⁠ ⁠Follow me on Instagram

So often, as parents, our dissatisfaction with our own life negatively impacts our ability to effectively parent our teen. When we feel happy in our own life, it not only makes us better parents but also better people. One of the most effective tools I’ve found in improving my quality of life is manifestation. Manifestation is often perceived as mystical or far-fetched, but it's actually a practical process of setting clear goals and aligning your thoughts and actions with those goals. In this episode, I’ll dive into the concept of manifestation, breaking down its components and sharing personal experiences to illustrate its effectiveness. Topics in this episode include: My personal experience incorporating manifestation practices into my life and the results I have created along the way Practical techniques such as goal setting using the five "F's," visualization, and affirmations The importance of taking inspired action and staying open to possibilities Simple steps you can take now to start manifesting positive change in your life -- Apply to work with me Join my free group for parents