In Episode 241, "The Art (and Benefits) of Listening to Your Teenager," we dive deep into one of the most crucial, yet challenging, skills for parents: truly listening. You’ll learn about the two types of listening that can make or break your connection with your teen and get a practical guide on the dos and don’ts to use when they open up. Whether you're struggling to understand their world or just want to build a stronger relationship, this episode is packed with tips to transform how you...

From Christmas gifts to college applications, choosing friends, picking classes, applying for jobs, finding roommates, how to respond to a text, and even what to wear on any given Tuesday—life is full of decisions that can feel overwhelming. Add in the mental drain of decision fatigue, and it’s no wonder our teens (and even we) feel worn out by lunch! But what if regret over decisions could be a teachable moment for your teens? Imagine the confidence they could build in making choices that...

  Ever find yourself staring at your teen, wondering why they keep making choices that seem baffling? They may look like adults, but they're not acting like one. They struggle with impulse control, long-term planning, and prioritizing wisdom over their friend’s opinion. In this episode, I’m diving into the science behind those head-scratching decisions and how you, as a parent, can stop spinning your wheels and start supporting them in the most helpful ways possible. We’ll break down why...

We’ve all heard the word "objectify" in the context of sexualizing women, reducing them to something that exists to gratify others. But this same concept shows up in parenting more often than we realize. When we label our teens, we’re unconsciously treating them as objects—means to an end for our own validation, appearance, or pride. In this sister episode to #144 episode, I explore how labeling our teens strips them of their individuality, dreams, and struggles, and how this egocentric...

In this episode, we dive deep into one of the most common struggles parents face—tying their self-worth to their teen's choices and behaviors. It’s easy to feel like a "good" parent when things are going smoothly, but what happens when your teen starts acting out or making decisions you don't agree with? Does that make you a failure? Join me as we explore how to detach your self-esteem from your teen’s actions and focus on your own emotional well-being. By letting go of the need to control...

Why won’t your teen confide in you, give you a straight answer, or do anything more than grunt or nod? I know it can feel frustrating when you’re trying to connect, and it just isn’t happening. Short answer: They don’t want to.   Long answer: They have a really good reason that's unique to them but not unique for human psychology. In this episode, I’m diving into the logical and predicatable ‘why’ behind your teen’s silence. From their perspective to common roadblocks we may unknowingly...

If you’ve been asking yourself, “Why won’t my teen just go to bed?”—trust me, you’re not alone! The nightly struggle over bedtime is real for so many parents. But here’s the thing: it’s not just about stubbornness or screen time. In this episode, we’ll explore why teens naturally want to stay up late and what you can do to help them wind down and get the rest they need (without turning bedtime into a war zone). In this episode, you’ll learn: The biological reasons why teens’ bodies are...

Ever wonder what sets the most successful teens apart? It’s not luck or perfect behavior—it’s the way their parents show up! In this episode, I’ll share four key things that parents of thriving teens do consistently to build strong, healthy relationships and help their teens grow into confident, resilient adults. The best part? You can start implementing these strategies today, no matter where you’re at in your parenting journey! In this episode, you’ll learn: How to create quality...

Feeling like your teen "hates" you? You're not alone. One of the most frequently Googled questions by parents is: Why does my teenager hate me? From eye rolls to harsh words, lies, and disrespect, it can seem like your teen is constantly at odds with you—and even their siblings. But why do teens sometimes act so mean, and how can parents respond in a way that fosters love, respect, and kindness? In today’s episode, we break down the reasons behind your teen's behavior and provide actionable...

Today we delve into a difficult yet essential topic: Why do teens cut? Self-harm can be a frightening and confusing issue for parents, but understanding the underlying reasons is key to offering the most helpful support. This episode will explore the emotional and psychological triggers that lead teens to cut, shedding light on the often hidden pain behind their actions. In this episode you’ll learn: A  better understanding of their reasons and how it makes sense to them. (It’s not to...

In this episode of Pivot Parenting, we tackle a tough but crucial question: Why do teens do drugs? You might think there are countless reasons, but it all boils down to one clear core reason. By understanding this reason, you'll gain clarity on your teen's behavior and learn how to better address substance use with empathy and effectiveness. Join me as I reveal powerful parenting techniques to support your teen without pushing them away, offering the tools you need to build a stronger...

In this episode, I'm diving into the five common misunderstandings about trust that can trap parents and harm their relationships with their teens. Trust is a big issue, especially when teens engage in risky behaviors like lying, sneaking out, using substances, and other reckless actions. But what if we’re looking at trust all wrong? Here’s what we’ll cover: Why teens break our trust: Understanding the reasons behind lies, sneaking, and other unwanted behaviors. What trust really is (and...

In this high-value episode of Pivot Parenting, we explore the concept of "Pick Me" parenting and its impact on your relationship with your teen. Are you unknowingly seeking your teen's approval by trying to be the "cool parent" or competing for their attention? While it might seem like a way to connect, this approach can lead to common parenting pitfalls and undermine your authority. Join host, Heather Frazier as she uncovers the signs of "Pick Me" parenting and offers practical strategies...

In this episode of Pivot Parenting, we tackle the pervasive "always right" parenting trap. Are you finding yourself interrupting, being impatient, and insisting on things being done your way? Do you feel judged while also judging others, struggle to understand your teen, or face challenges with authentic engagement from your kids and spouse? The need to always "be right" can disrupt your happiness and hinder your ability to connect with your kids and partner. It’s a common issue, yet many...

Divorce is a common pain point for many parents. It can feel like your life is out of your control, your kids are suffering, and everything is turned upside down. Divorce expert, Karin Nelson and I will discuss  the guilt portion of that today. Whether you're divorced, in the process, or are happily married, you'll get valuable info from the conversation. We cover being unable to protect your kids from harmful parents, blaming yourself for their suffering, if you made the right decision,...

You’d think they’re kept top secret… but nobody is gatekeeping the ways parents of teens sabotage connection without ever knowing it. In today's episode of Pivot Parenting, I outline the three most effective parenting tips for improving family relationships. We’ll overcome regret, discuss how to build connection with your teen, and find parenting peace. You’ve never met parenting solutions more effective and simple to implement before. The often unseen mistakes parents make that we’ll discuss...

Julia is worn out from meeting the emotional and physical needs of her kids and even her husband. She feels lonely and sad because her husband is so unavailable and parents in such a "black and white" manner, that there is little room for understanding and connection. Parenting her teen and dealing with a spouse who isn't showing up how she needs is taking a toll. Listen in as she's coached to discover what's holding her back from having the parenting relationship she wants- it's not what you...

Paul and his wife have 3 kids. Their middle child is playing too much Fortnite and it's not going well... Tech is a huge issue for most parents, and with good reason. You've got a teen brain that loves the high which games provide and parents who want their kids to see the wisdom in playing less, while feeling good about it all.  In this episode we discuss how parents that want their teens to like them are disempowering themselves and not helping their teen as well as they could. Paul needs...

Kat is experiencing a very common parenting struggle: She wants to keep her daughter happy.  And so she apologizes when she's not done anything wrong, does more than she wants to to keep the house running, and generally walks on eggshells to manage a 13 yr olds emotions. As you can imagine, she isn't very successful at this, because we've all been in her shoes.  "Fix it" energy feels like the solution to a grumpy teen but is often fuel to the fire. Listen in as we discover what the real...

In today's Pivot Parenting episode I coach Madeleine. She has two daughters that fight and she just wants it to stop. We all get this- and we are often times in the same trap that she's in. Listen to learn how she can find the peace of mind she wants even though nothing has worked to stop them from arguing. There is more that can be done than either joining in the argument or withdrawing altogether.  To learn more about parenting and get your copy of, How I Fixed My Teen, visit me at...

This episode of Pivot Parenting is dedicated to that parent who is second guessing all of their life decisions: Marriage, career, having all the kids, giving their whole life to something and someone all for nothing.  Having teens who act like they don't care, a partner who never appreciates us, a career that isn't what we'd thought, and a list of to-do's that breeds overnight with no help in site can drive anyone to wishing for another path.... many, many decisions ago.  If you're in the...

All talk (or complain) and nothing changes. We might get louder, we might be more miserable and frustrated, but the teens are still teening and the parents are still parenting... as the months pass but the unbearable moments we want to avoid are just on repeat.  WHY!? It can be maddening when you don't understand the reason behind the chaos. Listen in, because I'm going to make sense of the madness and then explain what actually fixes the issue so that when you see something that needs...

Mental health is on the forefront of most parents brains. Anxiety being a frontrunner. Did you know that negative self-talk plays into anxiety and other mental health struggles? Listen in as Monica and I discuss: 1- What role self-awareness plays in managing anxiety, and how to help teens develop this skill. 2- Common negative self-talk patterns among teens and how these patterns contribute to their anxiety. 3- What strategies are recommended for parents to help their teens become more...

We all want the instant solution, "magic wand" kind of get-what-I-want-quick resolution. Parents try to come at this in so many directions... perhaps you've tried a few? Coulda, woulda, shoulda: "If I had known", "if I had said that differently", "if they hadn't been dating that person", "if their dad wouldn't have lost his temper... THEN we wouldn't be here." That's the "magic wand" we missed out on perspective.  Be everywhere, know everything, do all the things right: This one feels ultra...