Raising Me

Talking to your kids about drugs—it’s one of the hardest conversations a parent can face. This week on Raising Me, we’re breaking down the barriers and building trust. Rob Rogers from Kennebec Behavioral Health shares age-specific strategies to help parents connect—from toddlers to teens. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Doomscrolling — the endless cycle of scrolling through bad news, frightening headlines and viral disasters — isn’t just a problem for adults. Kids and teens are getting caught in the same digital trap, and experts say it’s taking a toll on their mental health. In this episode, Adrienne speaks with Dr. Doug Fagan, a licensed psychologist and an Ambassador of the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Center of Excellence on Social Media and Youth Mental Health. Fagan has spent years researching how social media and digital habits affect young people’s emotional well-being. In this episode, he explains why doomscrolling is so addictive, how it can impact sleep and mood, and what parents can do to help their children break free from it. The conversation dives into strategies for parents to approach the issue with curiosity and empathy, rather than judgment. Fagan emphasizes meeting kids where they are and modeling healthier digital habits. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With the start of the school year just around the corner, a new episode of the Raising Me podcast dives into a topic many parents are curious about—but may be hesitant to explore: homeschooling. In this week’s episode, host Adrienne Stein sits down with Brooke Thompson, a homeschooling expert and mother of six, who shares her personal journey and professional insights as the President of HAVEN Homeschool Collective and the Vice-President of Maine Home Education Alliance. The conversation covers the basics of homeschooling—how it works, why some families choose it, and where to even begin if you're considering the path yourself. Thompson shares the joys, challenges, and misconceptions of homeschooling, offering guidance for parents who may be simply curious, overwhelmed, or just looking to better understand the growing number of families who take education into their own hands. Whether you're seriously considering homeschooling, mildly curious, or just want to know what it’s really like behind the scenes, this episode provides valuable perspective and practical advice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode focuses on how to navigate the transition from parenting a child to supporting a young adult; with advice on setting healthy boundaries, adapting to possible changes in communication, and shifting your role from hands-on manager to compassionate mentor. Whether your young adult is thriving in their independence or still finding their way, the conversation offers relatable insight and expert advice for parents of adult children. Joanne Grant, Chief Growth Officer at Sweetser, joins the episode to share her professional experience in behavioral health — and her personal journey as a mother. She opens up about the moment it all hit her: standing in a grocery store, realizing her daughter had truly moved out and moved on. From coping with an empty nest to learning how to support your child without overstepping, Grant offers practical, heartfelt guidance that many parents will relate to. This episode is a must-listen for anyone wondering how to stay connected to their adult children while still giving them the space to grow. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're looking back at a previous episode this week - about the rising price of college and some creative ways your family can afford higher education if that's in your child's life plan. Have you checked the price of college lately?! It can be eye-opening – if not downright scary. Parents looking for guidance on navigating college costs can find expert advice in the latest episode - learn expert advice on savings strategies, financial aid options, scholarship pro-tips and common pitfalls to avoid. Whether your child is currently looking at schools, or you have many years until then – this episode covers key topics like when to start saving (and no, it’s never too late), how much to set aside, and ways students and extended family can help too. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Teen dating has always been complicated, but in today’s world of instant communication, social media, and constant availability, the pressures—and risks— can be greater than ever. As we look ahead to Valentine’s Day this week, host Adrienne Stein speaks with Caroline Bochtler-Labrie, a longtime high school health teacher and Maine’s 2023 High School Health Teacher of the Year. With years of experience guiding teens through relationships, breakups, and social pressures, she shares insights for parents trying to navigate this ever-changing landscape. The conversation covers everything from setting boundaries and recognizing red flags to the influence of social media on modern relationships. Bochtler-Labrie highlights the dangers of jealousy disguised as care, the pressure of "Instagram-perfect" relationships, and how parents can help their teens develop healthy expectations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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

Did you know that kids can lose up to two months of learning over the summer? It’s called the Summer Slide—and it’s more common than you might think. But don’t worry, fighting it doesn’t mean turning your home into a classroom. In this episode, Adrienne Stein talks with Dr. Melinda Butler, chair of the Department of Literacy, Language and Culture at the University of Southern Maine and assistant professor of literacy education. Dr. Butler breaks down what summer learning loss looks like, why it matters, and how you can help your kids stay sharp over break—without any stress (or flashcards!). From fun reading routines to easy ways to sneak in math and keep curious minds engaged, this episode is packed with simple, practical tips for every parent. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When is the right time to give your child a cellphone — and how do you know they’re truly ready? It’s one of the most common and complicated questions parents face. In this episode, we’re joined by Joanne Grant, Chief Growth Officer at Sweetser, a Maine-based nonprofit providing mental and behavioral health support to children and families. Joanne brings a wealth of experience to this conversation, offering practical advice to help parents weigh the pros and cons of introducing a phone into their child’s life. From assessing maturity and responsibility, to dealing with peer pressure and social media exposure, we break down the key factors parents should consider — including safety, screen time, and emotional readiness. We also explore: · Why age 12–13 is a common starting point — but not a hard rule · The benefits of starting with a basic phone before transitioning to a smartphone · The role phones play in safety, independence and mental health · Tools and strategies for monitoring use and building trust If you’re wrestling with this decision — or already navigating phone rules with your child — this episode offers thoughtful, real-world guidance to help you make the best choice for your family. Raising Me is sponsored in part by MaineHealth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When your child begins therapy, it can be difficult to know where you fit in. Should you be in the room? Stay on the sidelines? What’s too much—or not enough? In this episode of Raising Me, host Adrienne Stein speaks with Jacki Charity, director of outpatient and substance use disorder services at Kennebec Behavioral Health. Charity explains how parents and caregivers can play a supportive role in their child’s therapy—whether they’re just starting out or deep into the healing process. Whether you’re parenting a young child, a teen or somewhere in between, learn practical advice for navigating this journey together. Raising Me is sponsored in part by MaineHealth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you’ve ever stepped on a LEGO barefoot or lost a permission slip in a sea of clutter, this episode of Raising Me is your guide to bringing order to what can be the mess of parenting. Professional Organizer Stephanie Treantos of Lemonaid Solutions shares how she went from a self-described “hot mess” to helping families simplify, declutter, and create systems that actually work to stay organized. Treantos offers real-life solutions for parents overwhelmed by toys, laundry, or endless paperwork. She also emphasizes that organizing is a learned skill, and with intention and effort, even some of the most unorganized among us can bring order – and peace – to their home. Raising Me is sponsored in part by MaineHealth. Lemonaid Solutions Blog: https://lemonaidsolutions.com/blog Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week’s episode of parenting podcast Raising Me explores one of the most essential — and often elusive — aspects of family life: sleep. Dr. Allyson Coffin breaks down how sleep impacts everything from mental clarity to parenting patience and offers practical advice for improving sleep quality for both adults and children. Dr. Coffin explains why falling asleep within 10 minutes of hitting the pillow is a sign of a healthy sleep cycle, and that even a single nighttime wake-up lasting less than 30 minutes is generally not cause for concern. What matters most, the expert notes, is not just time in bed but the quality of rest. A full 10 hours in bed can still result in a bad night’s sleep if the environment and habits aren’t right. The episode emphasizes the importance of creating a restful sleep environment for both parents and children, as well as guidance on proper sleep posture. Dr. Coffin also warns that even a single night of poor sleep can significantly reduce brain function. She also has pro-tips on naps and explains why a small cup of coffee right before a nap can be the key to waking up rested and ready to go. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In honor of April being National Financial Literacy Month, we're revisiting an episode from last year - Money Mindset: Allowance Answers. In this episode, Adrienne speaks with financial expert Mary Dyer about figuring out allowance for your kids. From how much should it be to what chores they should earn allowance for, plus, what our guest says is the *most important thing* when it comes to allowance. They discuss how much should kids earn, what should they earn money for and what should just be considered household chores, and what about those little purchases that seem like no big deal at the store, when should you float them some cash. These are all questions we can face every day as parents as we try to set our kids up for financial success. You may remember Mary Dyer from our previous "Money Mindset" episode. Mary is the Financial Education Program Manager at the Finance Authority of Maine, also known as FAME. She’s also navigated these same challenges with her own kids, too. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, the conversation centers on the power of reading and how to nurture a lifelong love for it in children — whether they’re reluctant readers, struggling to keep up, or avid bookworms in search of their next great story. Melinda “Mindy” Butler, chair of the Department of Literacy, Language and Culture at the University of Southern Maine and assistant professor of literacy education shares her expertise. Butler offers insight into why reading is essential—whether children are flipping pages or listening—and how parents can support their kids in discovering the joy of books. She also introduces a new phrase to the vocabulary: the “homerun book,” a term that might just change how you think about reading success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether you're snapping quick shots on your phone or investing in a professional photo session, getting great pictures of your family is a timeless goal — and this week's Raising Me conversation is all about making that easier. A professional photographer walks us through the simple things you can do to get that perfect shot at home or with a pro. While the idea of regular professional family portraits sounds appealing, it often falls to the wayside — sometimes for years. The reasons? Everything from choosing the right time and place to coordinating outfits and ensuring everyone cooperates. It can all feel like a lot. To help simplify the process, professional photographer Kate Michaud joins the conversation. Michaud, who specializes in weddings and family portraits, brings passion and experience to the art of memory-making. She shares her top tips for capturing the perfect shot — whether you're in the backyard with a smartphone or planning a full professional session — and offers advice on how to take the anxiety out of the experience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week’s episode of Raising Me dives into an often-overlooked yet crucial part of the body—the vagus nerve. Dr. Allyson Coffin, a chiropractor in Yarmouth, discussed the nerve’s impact on overall well-being. The vagus nerve, which connects the brain to the rest of the body, plays a key role in stress management, digestion, and mood regulation. Adrienne and Dr. Coffin explore how this specific nerve effects conditions such as anxiety, sleep disturbances, and digestive issues. Dr. Coffin shares simple, natural strategies to support vagus nerve function, offering insights for both children and adults. The conversation aimed to provide listeners with practical ways to enhance their well-being through better nervous system health. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you find yourself or your kids locked in an endless social media scroll? A new study shows just how addictive these videos can be and the consequences around it. In this episode of Raising Me, Dr. Jeffery Barkin joins host Adrienne Stein to discuss the rising concern of Short Video Addiction, also known as SVA, and how it’s shaping young minds. Dr. Barkin explained why these videos are so addictive, citing dopamine-driven feedback loops that keep users hooked for hours. Dr. Barkin also shared practical strategies to help kids develop healthier tech habits. As platforms like TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Instagram Reels dominate screen time, experts are uncovering the effects these quick-hit videos have on attention spans, emotional regulation, and even brain structure. According to a recent study, kids and teens who consume excessive short-form content show increased brain activity in areas linked to impulse control and emotional processing—raising concerns about long-term effects. For parents wondering if their child’s scrolling habits are just a phase or a growing concern, this episode provides valuable insights and actionable steps. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sleep. It can feel so elusive at nearly all stages of parenting. In this revisted episode of Raising Me, Adrienne explores the importance of sleep and how to get better quality of sleep for your whole family with guest Dr. Kristy Perkowski, DO. From the middle of the night little visitor who wants to cuddle into your bed, to teens who have trouble putting away their phones to catch enough z’s, pediatrician Dr. Perkowski provides practical and simple solutions for your family. About the guest: Dr Kristy Perkowski, DO, is a pediatrician with the Dr. Harry E Davis Pediatric Center in Portland, Maine. It is her goal to be an approachable, empathetic pediatrician who uses current recommendations and science to care for the children in the community. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you checked the price of college lately?! It can be eye-opening – if not downright scary. Parents looking for guidance on navigating college costs can find expert advice in the latest episode - learn expert advice on savings strategies, financial aid options, scholarship pro-tips and common pitfalls to avoid. Whether your child is currently looking at schools, or you have many years until then – this episode covers key topics like when to start saving (and no, it’s never too late), how much to set aside, and ways students and extended family can help too. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Blended families come in many forms - and while they can be both rewarding and complex - there is no one-size-fits-all approach to making them work. Whether co-parenting with an ex, stepping into a stepparent role, or helping children adjust to new siblings, these family structures often require patience, communication and mutual respect. Shannan King with the G.E.A.R. Parent Network walks us through the unique dynamics and strategies to ensure smooth blending of families and ensure children feel safe, loved, and supported through the process. Blended families extend beyond remarriage. They may include grandparents, aunts, uncles, or even close friends stepping in to help raise a child. As family dynamics evolve, understanding how to foster love and stability becomes essential. Setting clear expectations and open communication are key factors in ensuring a smooth transition. Parents and caregivers must engage in honest conversations—not only with their new partners but also with their children—to establish boundaries and create a sense of security. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices