Where Parents Talk: Evidence-based Expert Advice on Raising Kids Today

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Dr. Will Dobud, an award-winning researcher and social worker. Dr. Dobud sheds light on the alarming rise in youth anxiety and depression, suggesting that perhaps the real issue lies not within the kids themselves, but in the systems surrounding them. The discussion explores the importance of communication and independence in fostering resilience, while also addressing the delicate balance between discipline and allowing kids to experience struggle. With the prevalence of bullying and the pressures of social media, Dr. Dobud emphasizes the need for parents to understand consent in relationships and to support their children’s mental health without inadvertently labelling them. The conversation unpacks these pressing issues and sheds light on how we can better navigate the challenges of parenting in today’s digital age, ensuring our kids grow into healthy, confident adults.Takeaways: Understanding youth mental health requires recognizing that labeling does not equate to improvement in outcomes. Amidst rising anxiety and depression, social connection is the crucial element we must address. Parents should treat their children like crew members on a ship, fostering independence and responsibility. A child's emotional health can thrive when adults provide a secure base without constant interference. The impact of social media on youth mental health is complex and warrants more nuanced understanding. We must focus on engagement rather than pathologizing youth in order to improve their mental health outcomes. Links referenced in this episode:whereparents talk.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: Kids these Days Gabor Mate Dr. Gordon Neufeld Martin Seligman Ellen Beat Hansen Sand Cedar DSMV FDA Orange County Disney World This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience.You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.Links referenced in this episode:whereparentstalk.com

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to child and adolescent psychiatrist Dr. Sami Timimi, psychiatrist and author of Searching for Normal. The conversation examines the current approach to diagnosing mental health conditions in young people. Drawing on extensive clinical experience, Dr. Timimi questions the growing tendency to interpret behavioural patterns—such as inattention or restlessness—as indicators of fixed psychiatric disorders. He outlines how diagnostic labels, including ADHD, may influence a child’s developing identity and can shape long-term expectations about their abilities and well-being.The conversation explores the broader social environment contributing to rising diagnosis rates. Factors such as social media exposure, academic pressure, and performance-driven school cultures have shifted how families, educators, and clinicians interpret children’s emotions and behaviors. Dr. Timimi explains how these influences may lead to the pathologizing of challenges that, in many cases, fall within the range of typical development.He also discusses alternative approaches to supporting young people, emphasizing relational and contextual assessment rather than reliance on diagnostic categories. Dr. Timimi encourages parents to engage with professionals who consider family dynamics, developmental stages, and environmental stressors when evaluating a child’s concerns.Takeaways: Understanding mental health diagnoses in children requires a shift away from viewing behaviors as disorders. The rise in psychiatric medication among young people raises concerns about long-term effectiveness and side effects. It's crucial for parents to maintain open communication with their children and resist the urge to pathologize normal struggles. Navigating adolescence involves hormonal changes and device usage, impacting both emotional and mental health significantly. Social media can amplify feelings of inadequacy, making it essential to teach resilience and independence in children. Bullying and peer relationships are pivotal in shaping the mental health landscape of today's youth. Links referenced in this episode:whereparents talk.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: National Health Service NHS

How can parents teach kids to think critically, tell truth from falsehood, and navigate an online world filled with AI-generated content and misinformation?In this episode of Where Parents Talk, host Lianne Castelino speaks with Matthew Johnson, Director of Education at MediaSmarts, about practical ways parents can build digital media literacy at home.Discover how to talk to your kids about honesty, praise effort over results, and foster open communication in a digital age where AI, deepfakes, and disinformation are shaping childhood experiences.Johnson shares practical strategies for parents to engage in ongoing conversations with their kids about their media consumption, ensuring that they feel comfortable discussing any issues that arise. He also provides actionable techniques for discerning credible information, such as using curated sources and leveraging technology effectively. As families navigate this rapidly changing landscape, fostering critical thinking and emotional intelligence will be key to ensuring that children thrive both online and offline.Takeaways: The importance of effective communication with your children about their media usage cannot be overstated—fostering open dialogue is key. Understanding the rapidly evolving nature of AI and its implications on academic honesty is crucial for today's parents and teens. Teaching kids about consent and relationships in the digital age helps them navigate the complexities of social media interactions safely. Promoting discipline in device usage and encouraging kids to focus on effort rather than just outcomes can significantly affect their emotional health. Parents should actively engage with their children's media lives, creating an environment where discussing experiences with digital content is normalized. A healthy balance between skepticism and trust in information sources is essential for developing critical thinking skills in young adults. Links referenced in this episode:whereparentstalk.comtineye.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: MediaSmarts This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience.You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.

In this episode of theWhere Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Michael Chiasson — speaker, musician, writer, and author of Things We Wish Our Parents Knew. Drawing on 20+ years of speaking to youth across North America, Chiasson shares lessons from thousands of anonymous letters written by teens about what they wish their parents understood.Discover what today’s young people are truly trying to say — about love, loneliness, expectations, and the need to be seen and heard. Learn how to build emotional safety, encourage open communication, and nurture deeper connection with your tween, teen, or young adult.Takeaways: Navigating the complexities of parenting today requires acknowledging the significant hormonal changes teens undergo, impacting their emotional health and communication. Understanding device usage and its impact on emotional health is crucial for fostering independence and healthy relationships among young people. Creating open lines of communication is key to combating bullying and ensuring teens feel safe discussing consent and relationships with their parents. Parents must recognize that social media plays a substantial role in their children's lives, influencing their mental health and self-esteem. Discipline should be balanced with empathy, allowing space for teens to express their feelings and fostering an environment of trust and understanding. Encouraging teens to share their thoughts anonymously can yield insights into their emotional struggles, helping parents guide them through challenging times. Links referenced in this episode:whereparentstalk.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: Things We Wish Our Parents Knew This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience.You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Rebecca Faye Smith Galli — columnist, resilience expert, advocate, and bestselling author — about what it truly means to live with resilience in the face of unimaginable loss and change.A mother of four (including two children with special needs) and a grandmother, Smith Galli’s journey has been marked by profound challenges — from losing her brother at a young age, to raising children with epilepsy and autism, to becoming paralyzed just days after a divorce. Through it all, she’s discovered practical wisdom and hope that continue to inspire parents and caregivers around the world.Together, the conversation unpacks the real meaning of resilience — how to face adversity with honesty, accept what cannot be changed, and still find ways to live fully and joyfully. Smith Galli shares her strategies for staying “possibility-driven,” teaching children about emotional awareness, and nurturing family connection amid uncertainty.Key themes:Defining resilience through lived experienceParenting children with special needsCoping with grief, loss, and unexpected changeFinding hope through journaling, mindfulness, and daily intentionModelling resilience and emotional honesty for kidsTakeaways: Hormonal changes during adolescence can significantly affect communication and discipline in young adults. Social media usage has created new avenues for bullying, impacting emotional and mental health among teens. Establishing independence is crucial for teens, but it's equally important to foster open communication with them. The integration of physical health and emotional well-being is vital for resilience in facing life's challenges. Understanding consent and relationships is essential for teaching teens about healthy interactions in a digital age. Parents should embrace the concept of resilience, encouraging their children to adapt and thrive despite life's adversities. Links referenced in this episode:whereparentstalk.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: Pathfinders for Autism This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience.You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.

Did you know that your child’s stomach aches might have more to do with their mind than their meals?In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast host Lianne Castelino speaks with Dr. Ali Navidi, licensed clinical psychologist and CEO of GI Psychology, about the link between the gut and the brain — and what every parent should know.Dr. Navidi explains how gut–brain disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome IBS, functional abdominal pain, and dyspepsia can begin in early childhood, how anxiety and stress can fuel digestive symptoms, and why clinical hypnosis and CBT are proven tools to help kids heal.Learn when to seek help, how to support your child’s emotional and physical well-being, and why building safety and routine can make all the difference.Takeaways: Understanding the connection between gut health and emotional well-being is crucial for children and teens, as hormonal changes and anxiety can exacerbate GI disorders. Parents should be proactive in maintaining routines for their children, as consistency can foster independence and discipline, while avoiding the pitfalls of anxiety-driven behaviour. Open communication about feelings and body awareness is essential in helping children articulate their emotional health, particularly in relation to physical symptoms they may experience. Effective treatments for gut-brain interaction disorders include cognitive behavioural therapy and clinical hypnosis, which empower kids to manage their symptoms and improve their mental health. Links referenced in this episode:whereparentstalk.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: GI Psychology This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience.You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.

What should parents really be telling their kids before they leave the nest? In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to writer and mom of three, Joanne McHugh, creator of the newsletter Things Your Mom Should Have Told You.McHugh how parents can help their young adults navigate love, work, money, and life’s inevitable messiness — without lecturing or sugarcoating.She shares how her own daughters inspired her mission to offer honest, heartfelt, and practical wisdom to 20-somethings finding their footing in today’s complicated world.Key topics:Why “happy talk” can backfire when preparing kids for adulthoodHow sharing your own struggles builds stronger relationshipsTalking about dating and finances without sounding like a sermonNavigating hustle culture and burnoutHelping young adults normalize the messiness of their 20sThis podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience.You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.Links referenced in this episode:whereparentstalk.com

In this episode of Where Parents Talk, host Lianne Castelino speaks with Pamela Hobart — philosopher coach, writer, mother of four, and gifted education advocate. Hobart shares her journey from academia to coaching, and now to her work at GT School, where AI-driven mastery learning meets life skills education for high-ability students.Drawing on her background in philosophy and coaching, Hobart explains how she helps people transform “overthinking” into wisdom and action — a process just as vital for adults facing career crossroads as it is for children navigating school. She reveals why traditional education systems often fail gifted learners, leaving them either underchallenged or burdened with “educational baggage,” and why enrichment activities like dissecting sharks or busywork projects don’t truly meet their needs.Hobart also discusses GT School, a model blending AI-powered mastery learning with life skills workshops and human guidance. Instead of measuring success by seat time or average grades, GT School prioritizes academic acceleration, emotional resilience, and practical skills such as financial literacy, teamwork, and project management. Students not only advance faster academically but also learn to embrace failure, build confidence, and develop a love of learning.Hobart unpacks common misconceptions about gifted learners, the role of AI in education, and why guides — drawn from diverse backgrounds beyond traditional teaching — are central to creating environments where children thrive. Key Takeaways:The limits of traditional educationTurning overthinking into wisdomGifted ≠ enrichmentThe role of AI in learningLife skills matterThis podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience.You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.Links referenced in this episode:whereparentstalk.com

Self-regulation is a superpower that can transform a teen’s emotional, social, and academic life. In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to psychologist and first-time author Dr. Cathy Wu. The former college professor and mom dives into why mastering self-regulation is essential for today’s youth—and how parents can help. From navigating technology and social pressures to fostering healthy habits and meaningful communication, Dr. Wu shares practical strategies for empowering teens to thrive. The conversation also explores insights from her new book, The Self-Regulation Handbook for Teens and Young Adults, and discover how to guide your teen toward confidence, resilience, and success.Takeaways: Self-regulation is a crucial skill for teens, impacting their emotional, social, academic, and physical development. Dr. Wu's book offers tools for teens aged 15 to 21 to navigate challenges and improve self-awareness. Parents should model healthy technology use to foster better self-regulation in their teens. Conversations about emotional well-being should be casual and led by curiosity, not judgment. Understanding the trauma-informed approach is essential for supporting teens in today's challenging environment. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) provide practical techniques for managing stress and emotions. Links referenced in this episode:whereparents talk.comThis podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience.You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.Links referenced in this episode:whereparentstalk.com

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks with Dr. Shawn Kelly, pediatrician, adolescent addictions specialist, and father of two. Dr. Kelly shares why he co-authored a Canadian Medical Association Journal editorial on gambling advertising, the moment his own young son confused sports stats with betting terms, and why he sees this issue as a “Wild West” for youth health.The discussion unpacks:How repeated exposure to betting ads normalizes gambling for kidsWhy adolescent brain development makes teens especially vulnerableWarning signs parents should watch forPractical steps families can take to build media literacy and resilienceWhat policy and regulatory changes could help protect youthTakeaways: The normalization of gambling advertising can significantly alter youth perceptions of sports, making gambling seem like an integral part of enjoyment rather than a risky behaviour. Parents should actively engage in conversations with their kids about gambling, promoting media literacy to counteract the overwhelming influence of pervasive betting ads. There is a concerning rise in gambling-related issues among youth, leading to increased mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression, underlining the urgency for parental awareness. The developmental vulnerabilities of adolescents, including hormonal changes and brain maturation, make them particularly susceptible to risky behaviors like gambling. Schools and sports organizations have a critical role in educating youth about the risks of gambling and should integrate this topic into their existing substance use prevention programs. Effective regulation of gambling advertising is essential; restricting ads during youth-targeted broadcasts could significantly protect young audiences from harmful influences. Links referenced in this episode:whereparents talk.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: Canadian Medical Association Journal Canadian Society of Addiction Medicine bet365 Alcohol Gaming Commission of Ontario This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience.You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.

When children leave home, parents often face a powerful mix of emotions—grief, pride, uncertainty, and even freedom. In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, licensed therapist, TEDx speaker, author, and mom Molly Carroll joins host Lianne Castelino to explore the realities of the empty nest.From the emotional challenges of letting go, to redefining identity and rediscovering purpose, Carroll shares insights, strategies, and stories that help parents navigate this life transition with compassion and confidence. Whether you’re preparing for your child to leave, in the midst of an empty nest, or supporting someone through it, this conversation offers guidance and hope for embracing the next chapter of parenting.Key Takeaways:What empty nest syndrome really means and why it impacts parents differentlyCommon emotions parents experience when children leave home—grief, pride, anxiety, and freedomHow to let go without losing your sense of self as a parentPractical strategies to cope with empty nest transitions and nurture your own well-beingWhy redefining your identity is an essential part of life after kids leave homeWays to strengthen your marriage, friendships, and personal growth in this new stageLinks referenced in this episode:whereparentstalk.com

In this episode of Where Parents Talk, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Dr. Brett Hill—chiropractor, entrepreneur, and father of four teenagers—to uncover the surprising connection between posture, overall health, and parenting.Dr. Hill explains why posture is more than just “sitting up straight.” From screen time to stress management, posture plays a critical role in our children’s brain development, emotional regulation, and confidence—and it impacts parents, too. He shares practical strategies to help families improve posture at home, including easy daily check-ins, movement-based screen time rules, and small habits that make a big difference over time.Whether you’re worried about your teen’s hours hunched over a device, or you’ve caught yourself slouching through a busy day, this conversation will give you tools to boost energy, reduce stress, and model healthy habits for your kids.Tune in and learn how posture can be a simple yet powerful key to raising healthier, more confident children—while improving your own well-being as a parent.Takeaways: Understanding the profound impact of posture on our mental, emotional, and physical health is crucial, especially for parents navigating their children's developmental changes. As device usage increases, particularly among youth, it is essential to educate them about the long-term consequences of poor posture linked to social media and gaming habits. Communication about posture should extend beyond simple reminders; it must incorporate discussions about consent and independence in managing screen time effectively. Bullying related to physical appearance can be mitigated by fostering confidence through good posture, which positively influences self-esteem and emotional health. Implementing regular posture checks and movement breaks can significantly enhance mental clarity and energy levels, reducing stress and improving overall well-being. Parents should model healthy posture habits, as children often emulate adult behaviours, creating a supportive environment for both physical and emotional health. Links referenced in this episode:yourpostureprogram.comwhereparentstalk.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: Experience Life Chiropractic your postureprogram.com This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience.You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.

On this episode of theWhere Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks with Jenny Perez, entrepreneur, mother and founder of Unplugged an organization whose mission is to raise awareness about the impact of smartphones and social media on children.Perez shares her insights on how constant device use can affect physical health, emotional well-being, and family communication, while also contributing to challenges such as bullying and social isolation. Drawing from both research and lived experience, Perez discusses the benefits of delaying smartphone access until at least age 14 and emphasizes the importance of consent and independence in young people’s digital lives.The conversation explores the realities of raising children in a hyper-connected world and examines practical strategies that parents can use to foster healthier relationships with technology.The rise of smartphones and social media has profoundly impacted the emotional and mental health of our youth, highlighting the need for proactive parenting approaches. The importance of delaying smartphone access for children until they are developmentally ready, ideally around the age of 14. Incorporating a community-driven approach can empower parents to take a stand against the normalization of device usage among young children. The comparison of social media to tobacco illustrates the potential dangers of device exposure on child development and independence. The significance of communication between parents and children regarding consent and their online interactions. Parents are encouraged to seek knowledge and resources to better understand the implications of technology on their children’s physical and emotional health. Links referenced in this episode:whereparentstalk.comunpluggedcanada.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: Unplugged Canada Wait Until 8 Brooke Shannon This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience.You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Annie Brock and Heather Hundley—seasoned educators and co-authors of the newly revised The Growth Mindset Coach.The conversation explores how this simple yet transformative approach can reshape parenting, teaching, and the way children see themselves. They reveal practical ways parents can nurture growth at home: celebrating effort over outcomes, modelling curiosity, encouraging independence, and turning mistakes into learning opportunities.The conversation also dives into some of the most pressing challenges families face today, from managing device use and navigating social media to talking with tweens and teens about consent, healthy relationships, and emotional well-being. Brock and Hundley highlight how a growth mindset doesn’t just build resilience in kids—it strengthens family bonds, reduces bullying, and equips children with the confidence to face adolescence and beyond with clarity and hope.Takeaways:Open, honest communication helps parents guide their children through the hormonal and emotional changes of adolescence with consistency and care.Encouraging independence means teaching kids to manage devices responsibly and approach consent and relationships with respect.Fostering a growth mindset can reduce bullying, strengthen resilience, and support the emotional and mental well-being of tweens and teens.Parents who model healthy lifestyle habits provide a powerful foundation for their children’s overall well-being during challenging developmental years.Healthy use of technology requires parents to guide children in responsible social media use and help them recognize misinformation.Celebrating effort, progress, and small wins boosts children’s confidence, motivation, and love of learning.Links referenced in this episode:whereparents talk.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: Carol Dweck Duolingo Khan Academy Minecraft This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience.You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.

Adolescence is often described as turbulent—but in the digital age, the waves are higher and the currents stronger. In this week’s Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks with bestselling author, mental health advocate, journalist and mother of five, Rachel Kelly (The Gift of Teenagers: Connect More, Worry Less) about the forces shaping today’s teens: hormonal changes, relentless screen time, and the pressures of a hyper-connected world.The discussion examines the tightrope parents walk—encouraging independence while enforcing discipline—and doesn’t shy away from pressing issues like bullying, consent, and online relationships. Kelly offers a candid, hopeful message: these years can be a crucible for growth, not just for teenagers, but for the parents raising them.Takeaways:Key Takeaways:Understand how hormonal changes shape your teen’s emotions and behavior.Communicate calmly while respecting your teen’s growing independence.Stay informed about your teen’s online life to address risks like cyberbullying.Teach consent and healthy relationships to build emotional and physical awareness.Focus on strengths to strengthen your parent–teen bond during challenging times.Remember: the teenage brain is still developing—lead with empathy and patience.Links referenced in this episode:whereparentstalk.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: King's College London This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience.You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.

Estrangement between parents and adult children is more common than many realize — affecting an estimated 26% of adults aged 18 to 40. In this episode of theWhere Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino talks with Catherine Hickem, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, psychotherapist, founder of Parenting Adult Children, author and mom, about why these painful breakups happen and how to repair them.Hickem emphasizes the importance of discipline and self-awareness in fostering healthy connections, while also addressing the emotional and mental health implications of estrangement. The conversation unpackes the critical role of consent in relationships and the impact of bullying in these dynamics, encouraging parents to be proactive in their approach to rebuilding trust and understanding with their children. Discover how modern pressures — from social media and device use to mental health challenges — can widen the communication gap, and what parents can do to rebuild trust, respect, and connection.Key takeaways:Why parent–adult child estrangement is on the riseHow hormonal changes and social media can impact family relationshipsThe role of self-awareness and healthy discipline in reconnectionAddressing consent, respect, and past hurts such as bullyingPractical strategies to bridge the generational divideHow to move forward with empathy, patience, and hopeLinks referenced in this episode:whereparentstalk.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: Parenting Adult Children Today This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience.You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.

Balancing the needs of aging parents while supporting young adult children is no easy task—and for millions in the sandwich generation, it’s a daily reality.In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino dives into the realities of the sandwich generation—those balancing the care of aging parents while supporting young adult children with guest Dr. Shirley Davis.A seasoned HR leader, global workforce expert, best selling author, podcaster, entrepreneur, CEO of SDS Global Enterprises and mom of one, Davis is also part of the sandwich generation. She shares hard-earned wisdom on navigating hormonal shifts, protecting emotional well-being, and mastering the subtleties of communication.The conversation explores how technology, device dependency, and social media can blur boundaries, challenge consent, and strain family dynamics. Dr. Davis also offers practical strategies for fostering independence, addressing bullying, and creating healthy, respectful relationships across generations.Takeaways: Navigating the complexities of the sandwich generation requires open communication and understanding among family members. Emotional health is paramount for caregivers; self-care practices like exercise and relaxation ensure well-being amidst responsibilities. Balancing device usage and social media can empower teens to communicate effectively while maintaining their independence and emotional health. Setting boundaries is crucial for caregivers, as it fosters a respectful dynamic with aging parents while allowing for personal space and discipline. This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience.You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.Links referenced in this episode:whereparentstalk.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: SDS Global Enterprises

First love can feel all-consuming—especially for teens navigating overwhelming emotions, identity, and digital pressure all at once.In this episode of Where Parents Talk, host Lianne Castelino sits down with acclaimed journalist, professor, and author Lisa A. Phillips, whose book "First Love: Guiding Teens Through Relationships and Heartbreak" explores the emotional rollercoaster of teen romance.The conversation unpacks the deep impact of first love and heartbreak on adolescent mental health—and how today’s always-connected world is shaping those experiences in new, often challenging ways.What role should parents play?How do social media and smartphones complicate modern relationships?How can we help teens build resilience while respecting their growing independence?From the importance of consent and healthy communication to navigating online drama and emotional overwhelm, this episode offers practical, compassionate strategies for parents—and timely insights for anyone supporting a teen.Key Takeaways:First love is intense—and real. Fuelled by hormonal shifts, adolescent emotions are heightened, making early romantic experiences feel deeply powerful and, at times, overwhelming.Open communication is essential. Parents who foster a safe, non-judgmental space for honest conversations can help teens better navigate the highs and lows of young relationships.Validation builds trust. Dismissing teen relationships as “just a phase” can damage emotional connection. Acknowledging their feelings shows respect and reinforces emotional well-being.Social media reshapes relationships. From texting to TikTok, digital platforms influence how teens express love, face rejection, and seek validation—often intensifying emotional challenges.Companies mentioned in this episode: New York Times Cosmopolitan Psychology Today State University New York Making Caring Common This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience.You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.Links referenced in this episode:whereparentstalk.com

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Ted Dintersmith, education disruptor, former venture capitalist, and author of Aftermath: The Math You Wish You Took. The discussion explores the gap between traditional math education and the real-world skills students actually need to succeed.Dintersmith distills the status quo by emphasizing the importance of creativity, critical thinking, and practical application. The conversation also delves into broader parenting concerns—including emotional and mental health, social media usage, bullying, and the importance of consent—showing how these complex issues connect back to how kids learn and grow.The discussion shares insights on how to help children build a healthier, more empowered relationship with math—and life.Takeaways: Understanding the disconnect between traditional math education and real-world applications is crucial for parents. Parents should embrace a broader view of math, encouraging creativity and real-life relevance over rote memorization. The conversation around math education needs to shift from grades to fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Incorporating math discussions into everyday life can help children develop a healthier relationship with the subject. The rise of AI in education highlights the need for students to understand concepts rather than just procedures. Parents can play a vital role in their child's learning by making math fun and engaging, rather than a chore. This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience.You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.Links referenced in this episode:whereparentstalk.com

In today’s episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino delves into the findings of educational experts Jenny Anderson and Rebecca Winthrop, authors of 'The Disengaged Teen.' They share their insights on the various modes of learning—Passenger, Achiever, Resistor, and Explorer—and how understanding these can empower parents to better support their children. Through a blend of qualitative and quantitative research, the authors share the importance of fostering an environment where curiosity thrives and students regain their independence in learning. Anderson and Winthrop explore actionable tips for parents to help their teens navigate the complexities of school life, from addressing emotional health to fostering better communication and discipline. What you'll learn: Why the disengagement of teens from school becomes pronounced during their transition into middle school How parents can play a pivotal role in their children's educational engagement Understanding the different modes of learning—Passenger, Achiever, Resistor, and ExplorerWhy promoting emotional health in teens involves encouraging curiosity and resilience Extracurricular activities can serve as vital outlets for teens Why the importance of consent and healthy relationships is increasingly relevant for teensLinks referenced in this episode:whereparentstalk.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: New York Times Quartz Time the Atlantic Brookings Institute Georgetown University Transcend Education This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience.You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.