Today on the podcast, I am interviewing Tracey Yokas, the author of Bloodlines: A Memoir of Harm and Healing. She shares her experience navigating a teen mental health crisis with her daughter, including the struggles they faced and the lessons she learned that helped them both cope and heal. We'll discuss: Tracey's firsthand account of navigating her daughter's mental health journey. How prioritizing your own well-being can positively impact your child's recovery. The impact of family...

In this special holiday edition, I'm diving into the do’s and don’ts of parenting teenagers during the holiday season. From navigating family gatherings to managing expectations around traditions, gifts, and screen time, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you reduce conflict and increase joy in your home. Here’s what you’ll learn: ✔️ How to avoid power struggles over holiday traditions and events. ✔️ Why flexibility with dress codes and social interactions matters. ✔️ The...

Ever felt like you're caught between a rock and a hard place, juggling the needs of your aging parents and your growing kids? Welcome to the sandwich generation! 🥪 In this episode, I’m discussing the unique challenges of this life stage.  Topics covered: The Sandwich Generation, Explained: What it is and why it's more common than ever. The Emotional Toll: How caring for both ends of the spectrum can impact your mental and emotional well-being. Practical Tips: Strategies for managing...

In this conversation, special guest Suzanne Hanna and I discuss the challenges faced by teenage girls, particularly regarding anxiety and coping mechanisms.  Suzanne shares her extensive background in education and her transition to life coaching, focusing on affective liminal psychology to help girls navigate their emotions.  We discuss the impact of societal pressures, and the importance of healthy coping strategies.  In this conversation, Suzanne shares her transformative journey of...

In this episode, I’ll discuss a common issue many of my clients face: managing different parenting styles when co-parenting a teenager.  Whether you’re divorced, separated, or in a relationship where you and your partner have conflicting views on discipline and rules, it can feel like a constant struggle to stay on the same page. I’ll share 8 practical tips to help you navigate these challenges and foster a more positive and consistent parenting approach, even when co-parenting with...

In this special bonus episode, I’ll guide you through a soothing loving-kindness meditation to help you process emotions and find peace, especially during challenging times. This practice can help reduce stress and anxiety and promote overall well-being. Whether you're navigating the aftermath of a major event or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, this meditation offers a powerful tool to cultivate compassion and self-love.

Are you a people-pleaser parent? Do you constantly say "yes" to your teen's requests, even when it drains your energy and time?  In this episode, I’m discussing people-pleasing and its impact on your teen and on yourself. I’ll explore the root causes of people-pleasing, the negative effects on your relationship with your teen, and practical strategies to break free from this pattern and create a more fulfilling and harmonious family life. Key Takeaways: Learn the common traits and root...

In this episode, I sit down with Duygu Balan, a psychotherapist and author specializing in intergenerational trauma, attachment wounding, and working with young people. Duygu offers invaluable insights into the unique challenges faced by today's teens, including rising anxiety levels, the impact of social media, and the complexities of navigating family dynamics.  We explore the concept of intergenerational trauma and how it can manifest in our relationships, as well as the importance of...

Today’s episode delves into a common teenage behavior: lying. As parents, understanding why teens lie and how to respond effectively is crucial.  I’ll explore the underlying reasons behind teen dishonesty, including seeking independence, immature brain development, and avoiding conflict. Plus, I’ll provide practical strategies to foster open communication, build trust, and address issues without resorting to harsh punishments. Key topics include: Common reasons teenagers lie and what...

In this episode, I’m diving into the topic of teenage anxiety and exploring the top eight things that teens worry about the most.  From school and grades to mental health and relationships, I’ll share the underlying reasons behind these concerns and offer practical strategies for parents to support their teens. Key Takeaways: Understanding Teen Worries: Learn about the anxieties teens often face, including academic pressure, social acceptance, body image issues, and future uncertainty. ...

Are you feeling overwhelmed by your teenager's intense emotions? Struggling to cope with frequent tantrums and emotional outbursts? In this episode, I discuss the common pitfalls parents make when dealing with teen emotions and provide practical strategies for navigating these ups and downs. Learn how to: Understand the underlying reasons behind teen emotional outbursts. Recognize the impact of trauma on your responses. Support your teen through difficult times with effective...

It's one thing to accept your queer teen, and quite another to be a true ally. Queer teens need to know that you not only support them but that you will actively advocate for them. But it's not easy to know how if you don't have experience with this. This is why I invited Jennifer Boudrye, a queer allyship facilitator, to the podcast to discuss the importance of allyship in supporting LGBTQ+ youth. Jennifer emphasizes the need for compassion, awareness, respect, and empathy (C.A.R.E) in...

Are you a parent of a college freshman? Join me as I discuss the top seven challenges faced by new college students.  I offer practical solutions to help them feel more successful and thrive.  From emotional struggles like anxiety and homesickness to social challenges like roommate conflicts and isolation, this episode provides valuable insights and support for parents and their teenage children during this significant transition. Key Topics: Emotional challenges: Understanding and...

In this episode I’m talking to my friend and fellow parent coach, Darlynn Childress, about her experience transitioning her youngest child to college and embracing her newfound "roomier nest."  Darlynn shares her personal story and offers insights on how to prepare for this significant phase in parenting and navigate the challenges and joys of having an empty nest.  Whether your teenager is about to embark on their college journey or you're years away from this transition, this episode...

Feeling disconnected from your teenage daughter? Wondering why she's suddenly distant or lashing out? One day she's your best friend and the next day she's shutting you out? In this episode, I'll share 10 strategies to act as a guide as you raise your teenage daughter. Having coached dozens of teen girls as well as raising two teen girls myself, I know a thing or two about what works, and what doesn’t. Topics discussed include: The underlying reasons for her mood swings, social...

In this episode, I’m discussing one of the most pressing issues facing parents today: managing teen phone use and social media and provide you with a practical guide for navigating this challenging terrain. Whether you’re considering new phone rules or managing existing habits, this episode will provide you with the strategies and insights you need to maintain a healthy, communicative relationship with your teen. In this episode, I cover: The Evolution of Teen Phone Use: How...

In this encore episode, I discuss the challenges that come with transitions and strategies to support your teen when things get overwhelming. The start of a new school year brings lots of newness. New schools, grades, teachers, sports, and possibly even social circles. Even if these things are expected and even welcomed, it can be a stressful time for both of you. So if you and/or your teen are feeling overwhelmed, you're not alone! Fear not! I'm here to help. Tune in this week to learn how...

Are you tired of the endless screen time battles with your teenager? This week I’m joined by screen time expert, Emily Cherkin, who shares practical advice and strategies to help you navigate the digital world with your kids.  This episode is packed with actionable tips and expert insights to empower you to reclaim your family's time and attention. Discover practical tips and strategies to help you: Understand the impact of screen time on child development Build strong relationships...

It’s me, hi, I’m the problem, it’s me! Are you tired of feeling like you're constantly battling with your teen? It might be time to look in the mirror. In this episode, I discuss the idea that sometimes, the problem isn't just your teen.  Inspired by Taylor Swift's "Anti-Hero," we explore the importance of self-reflection in parenting. You’ll learn how to identify potential areas where you can improve as a parent, from adjusting your expectations to changing your reactive behaviors. I’ll...

Are you worried your teen isn't "on track"? Feeling overwhelmed by societal pressures and expectations? You're not alone. In this episode, I talk about the challenges parents face when their teen doesn't fit the mold. From academic struggles to social pressures, I'll share practical advice and real-life stories to help you learn how to let go of unrealistic timelines, support your teen's unique journey, and build a stronger connection. Topics discussed include: How societal pressures and...

Join me for a conversation about personal style and parenting with image consultant Kendra Porter.  In this episode, we discuss how to rediscover your sense of style while guiding your teen towards expressing their individuality. Other topics include: Kendra's journey from personal style struggles to becoming a successful image consultant. The meaning behind Kendra's motto, "Honor Your Style, Honor You," and how it applies to both parents and teens. The power of clothing as a form of...

In this episode, I’m joined by Jo Figueras, a spiritual medium and intuitive practices mentor, to talk about how parents can develop their intuition.  We discuss the importance of trusting your gut feeling and distinguishing intuition from fear. Jo also explains how numerology can help you better understand yourself and your teen.  Topics discussed include: What intuition is and how it differs from fear The importance of inner work for parents How numerology can be a tool for...

On this episode, I'm joined by Katie K. May, author of the bestselling book, You're on Fire, It's Fine. Katie shares her personal journey as a "troubled teen" and her subsequent career as a therapist specializing in teens with self-destructive behaviors.  She offers invaluable insights into parents' challenges when their teen is struggling, emphasizing the importance of understanding and validating their teen’s experience. Topics discussed in this episode: How to create a supportive...

Ever scroll through social media and see those perfect pictures of moms and their kids? Maybe their kid just aced a test, or they're on some amazing vacation, or even just look like they're having a blast together.  And you get that SINKING feeling in your gut? You wonder what the heck you’re doing wrong and why your life isn’t as “perfect” as theirs seems to be. We've all been there. That feeling that you just don’t measure up. Mom guilt, it's a real thing and something all of my clients...