Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam

Teen ignoring you mid-sentence, tuning out your reminders, or answering your whole speech with “What?” Here’s the surprise. It’s rarely disrespect, and it’s rarely about you. In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, I explain why teens tune parents out, why lectures backfire, and what helps your teen start listening again. Most of us respond to the blank stare by saying it again, louder and longer. And the more we repeat, the less they hear. Your teen isn’t tuning you out because they don’t love you. Something is making it hard for them to listen, and once you know what it is, you can change it. This is the final episode of my series, 7 Teen Behaviors Parents Punish That Are Actually Signs of Healthy Development. In this episode you’ll learn: The three real reasons your teen won’t listen (and why none of them is disrespect) How the developing teen brain handles stacked instructions, and why stress makes it worse Why lectures trigger self-protection in the first few seconds The 30-second rule for getting your one point across Why fewer requests make each one carry more weight How to get your teen to listen by asking one simple question first The goal isn’t to get your teen to hear every word. It’s to be the person they can hear when it counts. 👉 Shorter talks will help with the dishes. But the real fear is the day it’s not about dishes anymore. It’s a party, a car, a friend you don’t trust, and you need them to hear you. Whether they do comes down to something you build long before that moment. Inside the Parenting Teens Academy, I show you how to build it step by step, and I answer your questions every day. See how it works Chapters: 00:00 Before we start 01:03 Why your teen won’t listen 03:11 Why repeating and punishing backfire 03:57 Tuning out is healthy development 04:24 Reason 1: Overload 05:08 Reason 2: Self-defense against lectures 06:15 Reason 3: Feeling unheard 07:33 The one question to ask instead 08:06 Keep it short: the 30-second rule 09:03 Ask less 09:49 Listen first, then talk 10:30 When old habits come back 11:20 Be the voice they hear when it counts THE SERIES This episode is part of the series 7 Teen Behaviors Parents Punish That Are Actually Signs of Healthy Development. Episode 269: Attitude Episode 271: Refusing to do chores Episode 273: Arguing about everything Episode 275: Acting entitled Episode 277: Making risky and bad choices Episode 280: Keeping secrets Episode 308: Not listening (you’re here) Connect with Dr. Cam Caswell: Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @drcamcaswell YouTube: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Parenting Teens Academy 🎧 Enjoying the show? Leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the support they need. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss a new episode. About the show: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. What’s one request you’re willing to let go of this week?

Middle schooler won't listen, won't cooperate, or won't get out of bed without a fight? Here's the surprise. That same kid is often engaged, funny, and working hard in a great teacher's classroom. In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, veteran middle school teacher Sean Kane shares what great teachers know about getting middle schoolers to cooperate, and how you can use it at home. Most of us treat the middle school years like bad weather. We keep our heads down and wait for it to pass. Sean thinks that's the biggest missed opportunity we have. After 14 years in the classroom, time as a dean of students, and raising three sons, he's seen that middle schoolers don't change because of more criticism or bigger consequences. They change when they start to feel capable. In this episode you'll learn: 1. Why your middle schooler seems like a different person, and what's going on underneath 2. How comparison and constant correction feed a deficit mindset 3. Why middle schoolers need more praise, not less 4. How to stack small wins (and why a 71% clean room is progress) 5. Why reflective questions work better than lectures 6. How to step back so your teen learns "I can figure this out"   👉 Want your middle schooler to cooperate without the daily battles? Parenting Teens Academy gives you a step-by-step plan to rebuild connection and strengthen your influence, plus you can ask me questions directly every day. Join here: https://www.skool.com/parenting-teens-academy/about   Chapters: 00:00 Why middle school is the most misunderstood age 01:12 Why Sean Kane chose to teach middle school 04:34 Puberty and the emotional side of middle school 07:18 How comparison creates a deficit mindset 10:37 What great teachers know about middle schoolers 13:33 How small wins build self-efficacy 16:07 Why praise matters more in middle school, not less 18:24 Why parents struggle to let go of punishment 21:50 Why boundaries only work with trust 24:23 Why success is the best consequence 27:04 How reflection builds self-awareness 30:07 How to stop overfunctioning for your teen 33:06 Responding to emotional and behavior struggles 36:37 How to build collaboration with your middle schooler 40:19 Why teens need to feel seen 43:12 The power of authentic connection 47:30 From punishment to relationship-based discipline 50:32 Where to find Sean Kane Resources mentioned: Dr. Shefali Tsabary's work on conscious parenting Autopilot, Sean's upcoming course: growthmindsetparenting.com Connect with Sean Kane: Website and newsletter: growthmindsetparenting.com Instagram: @growthmindsetparenting TikTok: @growthmindsetparenting Connect with Dr. Cam Caswell: Website: www.askdrcam.com Instagram: @drcamcaswell YouTube: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam 🎧 Enjoying the show? Leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the support they need. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss a new episode. About the show: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. What's one thing your middle schooler did right this week?

When a teen gets defiant or starts with the back talk, most of us push harder. More rules, louder voice, fewer explanations. And the harder we push, the further they pull away or shut down completely. 👉 Want to stay in charge without the yelling? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents trade shouting for calm, earn their teen's respect, and go from walking on eggshells to enjoying their teen again. Try it free for 7 days at askdrcam.com/academy José Rolón, known as NYC Gay Dad, raised his son and twin daughters as a single dad for ten years. He's the first LGBTQ dad on the cover of Parents Latina and co-host of the Love Take Two podcast. In this episode, he shares how he stays strict and fair without the yelling.   IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL LEARN HOW TO: Find the one setting where a teen who won't talk finally opens up Understand the real reason your disrespectful teen goes from 0 to 100 Know what to say instead of "because I said so" when defiance hits Use the one thing that earns your teen's respect faster than stricter rules   RESOURCES MENTIONED José Rolón: @NYCGayDad Love Take Two podcast   CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell    ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode. Thanks for listening. See you next week! Dr. Cam

"I'm only trying to help, but every question makes my teen go quieter." When your teen won't talk, what looks like defiance may be a sign they don't feel heard. The harder we push, fix, or force connection, the further they often pull away or shut down. 👉 Want your teen to open up to you again? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn what to say when their teen shuts down, trade guessing for calm, and go from walking on eggshells to enjoying their teen again. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Rachel Martin, Chief Operating Officer of the Born This Way Foundation, co-founded by Lady Gaga and her mother, Cynthia Bissett Germanotta. Rachel shares what teens need to feel safe opening up, and how to change the conversation starting today. If your teen's silence comes with signs of hopelessness or talk of self-harm, reach out to a mental health professional right away. In the US, call or text 988 anytime.   IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL LEARN Why your teen shuts down when you try to help The one thing missing when a packed schedule still feels lonely What to do instead of forcing connection when screen time spikes How talks about mental health can weaken or rebuild trust   EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why teens go quiet, with Rachel Martin 02:03 Inside the Born This Way Foundation 04:41 The social connection challenge for teens 06:23 Why every teen's social life looks different 08:57 What third spaces are and why teens need them 11:34 Low-pressure places where teens connect 14:36 When cost gets in the way 15:29 How unsafe environments affect teens 22:50 Building connection at home 26:34 Why teens need a trusted adult 28:57 How to talk openly about mental health 30:20 Making it a two-way relationship 31:50 Key takeaway: community and curiosity 32:31 How to connect with Rachel and the foundation   RESOURCES MENTIONED Be There Certificate Born This Way Foundation Kindness in Community Fund Ryan Bartel Foundation Lambert House Jack.org Hopelab   CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy   ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode. Thanks for listening. See you next week! Dr. Cam

Is your teen hiding things from you? It can feel like the tighter we hold on, the faster they pull away. Strict rules, phone bans, and grounding can seem like the safest way to protect our teens. But often they just teach teens to hide things better. 👉 Want to stay close without the power struggles? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to loosen control without losing their footing, keep their teen talking, and become the safe place their teen keeps coming back to. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Zara Kadir, a child, adolescent, and family psychotherapist, parenting coach, and mom of two. Zara explains why teens don't dislike us, they dislike having an agenda pushed into every interaction. We talk about why taking the phone often backfires, what to say instead of an automatic "no," and how to respond to mistakes so your teen keeps telling you the truth. Your job isn't to stop your teen from making mistakes. It's to be the person they call when they do. Teens need a safe home base, a place they can explore from and always come back to.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why teens hide things from their parents, and what works better than more rules What to say instead of an automatic "no" Why taking the phone away often backfires, and how to work together instead How to respond to mistakes so your teen keeps telling you the truth How to rebuild trust if you've been leaning on control   EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Meet Zara Kadir 02:47 What parents get wrong about teens 05:01 Why overprotecting teens backfires 07:02 How to change course as a parent 09:39 Parenting in the digital age 12:18 Supporting your teen's identity and exploration 15:24 Handling teen behavior without overreacting 18:09 How the teen brain makes decisions 20:09 Supporting teens through mistakes 22:09 Creating a safe space to explore 23:10 Balancing freedom and connection 24:22 Owning your parenting mistakes 25:00 The power of a thoughtful response 26:19 Understanding teen brain development 27:23 Teaching respect and empathy online 28:09 How to start changing your relationship 29:08 Getting into your teen's interests 30:09 Why the relationship comes first 31:04 Collaborative parenting and dialogue 32:00 Resources and final tips   RESOURCES MENTIONED Zara's courses on awkward conversations (puberty, periods, porn, and more): use code CAM for 20% off   CONNECT WITH ZARA KADIR Instagram: @thetherapyshed   CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy   ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Have you ever blamed your teen's eye rolls, impulsive choices, or big reactions on their "underdeveloped brain"? The teen brain keeps developing into the mid-20s, but that doesn't mean teens can't make good decisions. In fact, adolescence is one of the most important times for them to practice. 👉 Want discipline that teaches instead of backfires? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to set limits without punishment, stay calm when their teen messes up, and raise a teen who comes to them instead of hiding. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with psychotherapist and bestselling author Dr. Tina Payne Bryson, co-author with Dr. Dan Siegel of The Whole-Brain Child and No-Drama Discipline. We talk about what brain science can teach us about raising teens, why punishment can lead teens to hide their mistakes instead of learning from them, and why connection is the foundation for discipline, trust, and independence. If you want to understand what's happening inside your teen's brain and respond in ways that help them grow, this episode gives you practical, science-backed strategies.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN What teen brain development means for decision-making, empathy, impulse control, and responsibility Why punishment and fear can lead teens to hide mistakes instead of learning from them How to give your teen safe chances to practice decision-making and build independence Why connection and secure attachment are the foundation for trust and better behavior The four S's of secure attachment: safe, seen, soothed, and secure   EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 What brain science teaches us about teens 01:10 Parenting teens with understanding and empathy 02:43 How brain development affects teen behavior 04:09 Myths about brain maturity and responsibility 08:48 The prefrontal cortex in teens 11:59 Why practice builds skills 16:22 How to scaffold and support your teen 22:45 Mistakes and repair as learning 32:48 Building trust and secure attachment 44:55 Why relationship matters more than rules   RESOURCES MENTIONED The Whole-Brain Child by Dr. Tina Payne Bryson and Dr. Dan Siegel No-Drama Discipline by Dr. Tina Payne Bryson and Dr. Dan Siegel The Power of Showing Up by Dr. Tina Payne Bryson and Dr. Dan Siegel The Way of Play by Dr. Tina Payne Bryson and Georgie Wisen-Vincent The Four S's of Secure Attachment: Safe, Seen, Soothed, Secure   CONNECT WITH DR. TINA PAYNE BRYSON Website: TinaBryson.com Instagram: @tinapaynebryson   CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy   ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Does it feel like you're talking to a wall? You ask, remind, repeat, and still nothing. It's easy to decide your teen is being defiant. But often, something else is going on. 👉 Tired of repeating yourself? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to get through without nagging, stay calm instead of reactive, and get their teen talking and listening again. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Dr. R.J. Ledet, a psychiatrist trained in pediatrics, adult psychiatry, and child and adolescent psychiatry, a Navy veteran, and co-founder of The 15 White Coats. We talk about why teens tune us out, how our stress shortens our fuse, and why so much of the disrespect we dislike starts with what teens hear at home. The fix isn't stricter rules. It's pausing before we react, building responsibility step by step, and getting curious about how our teen thinks, not how we think they should.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why your teen isn't ignoring you on purpose The simple pause that keeps you from reacting and lecturing Why modeling teaches more than lectures, and where disrespect comes from How asking your teen to define "respect" helps your expectations land How to build responsibility step by step instead of all at once   EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 The challenges of parenting teens today 02:10 Meet Dr. R.J. Ledet 03:51 Common mistakes parents make with teens 06:00 Why self-awareness matters in parenting 08:06 Parenting under stress 10:01 The developmental stages of kids and teens 12:09 How your own upbringing shapes your parenting 14:01 Modeling and communication at home 16:02 Social media and screens 18:12 Building trust and connection with teens 19:58 Taking responsibility and caring for yourself 22:04 The power of pausing 24:00 Managing expectations and responsibility 26:01 Love, respect, and understanding 27:59 From control to connection 29:56 Final thoughts and key takeaways   CONNECT WITH DR. R.J. LEDET Instagram: @DrRussellLedet Organization: The 15 White Coats   CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy   ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Stop Overparenting: What Your Teen Actually Needs to Thrive | John Fogle Are you constantly worrying about your teen's grades, screen time, choices, or attitude? It's easy to get caught up in the small stuff when you're trying to set your teen up for success. But some of the things parents work hardest to control may actually get in the way of the skills teens need most. In this episode, Dr. Cam sits down with parenting researcher, data analyst, and author John Fogle to explore what really matters when raising teens. Together, they discuss why overprotecting teens can increase anxiety, how age-appropriate independence builds resilience, and why a strong parent-teen relationship is more protective than constant rules and monitoring. If you're exhausted from trying to keep your teen on the "right" path, this episode will help you step back from fear-based parenting and focus on raising a capable, confident adult who knows they can always come to you when things go wrong. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE Why focusing too much on grades, screens, and minor behavior can distract from what your teen actually needs How overprotecting and controlling teens can unintentionally increase anxiety and reduce resilience Why age-appropriate freedom, risk, and mistakes are essential for developing confidence and problem-solving skills How to become the parent your teen trusts enough to call when they're in trouble 🎧❤️ ENJOYING THE SHOW? Don't keep it to yourself! Share your favorite episode and leave a rating and review to help other parents find the support they need. Your feedback helps me create even more episodes filled with practical tips for you and your family! Thanks so much for your support! 🙏💫 🔔 Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE so you never miss another solution-packed episode! 🙌 RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Punishment Free Parenting by John Fogle Whole Parent Membership Platform: myparentlab.com Whole Parent Academy: wholeparentacademy.com Whole Parent Podcast The Danish Way of Parenting by Jessica Joelle Alexander CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: John Fogle Website: wholeparentacademy.com Membership: myparentlab.com Instagram: @WholeParent Facebook: @WholeParent TikTok: @WholeParent YouTube: Whole Parent Podcast: Whole Parent Podcast CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST: Dr. Cam Caswell Website: askdrcam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell TikTok: @the.teen.translator YouTube: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Facebook: @DrCamCaswell EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction: Rethinking Parenting Priorities 00:27 Meet John Fogle: Parenting Researcher and Author 01:20 Why We Overfocus on Small Stuff 02:20 The Role of Grades in Teen Anxiety 03:09 Success and Happiness Beyond Academic Achievements 04:04 The Myth of Boundaries and Rules 05:03 What Really Matters in Teen Development 05:59 Parents' Goals for Their Kids at Different Ages 06:29 Parenting for the Long Term 07:29 The Value of Diverse Experiences 09:14 The Power of Relationships and Communication 11:28 Parenting Beyond Control: The Ecosystem of Support 13:54 The Impact of Societal Changes on Teen Mental Health 16:44 Historical Lessons: The Great Leap Forward and Sparrows 18:34 The Cost of Overprotection and Control 20:47 Building Trust and Resilience in Teens 23:31 The Reality of Teen Screen Use and Digital Skills 26:57 The Decline of Autonomy and Its Effects 29:36 The Power of Parental Relationship and Support 33:26 Teen Behavior: Normal Developmental Challenges 36:27 The Importance of Community and Support Networks 38:15 Parenting as a Long-Term Investment 40:10 Simple, Effective Parenting Strategies 42:49 Listening to Teens and Building Trust 44:58 The Value of Risk and Resilience 48:49 Real-Life Examples of Risk and Growth 50:31 Final Words of Wisdom for Parents ABOUT THE SHOW The Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Podcast is your go-to resource for navigating the challenges of raising teenagers. Hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach, this podcast offers practical parenting strategies, expert advice, and real-world insights to help you build a stronger relationship with your teen and support their emotional growth. Whether you're struggling with teenage behavior or looking to improve communication, each episode provides actionable tips to make parenting teens easier and more rewarding. Perfect for both new and seasoned parents, this podcast helps you build the confidence to handle teen challenges and thrive together. #theteentranslator #drcamcaswell #parentingteenswithdrcam #TeenResilience #Overparenting

Are you constantly battling your teen over their phone? With worries about screen time, social media, and teen mental health everywhere, taking the phone away can feel like the only way to protect them. But what if the phone isn't the root of the problem? 👉 Tired of fighting about phones? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to set phone limits without the daily battles, stay calm when their teen pushes back, and get their teen talking to them again. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, a school psychologist, therapist, nervous system regulation expert, and author of The Dysregulated Kid. We talk about why teens turn to their phones to escape uncomfortable feelings, why restricting screen time alone doesn't teach healthy coping skills, and how calm, clear boundaries and connection help teens build emotional resilience. If phones have become a constant source of conflict in your home, this episode gives you a different approach, one that focuses on what's driving the behavior, not just the screen.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why your teen's phone use may be a sign of stress and dysregulation, not the real problem How your own calm shapes the way your teen responds to boundaries and conflict Why connection and clear boundaries work better than surveillance and constant restrictions The Love Pause, a three-second habit that stops phone fights before they start Practical ways to help your teen build healthier coping skills than scrolling EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why phones feel like the enemy 02:01 How teens use phones to cope, and the risks 04:06 How phones affect sleep and emotional health 07:10 Passive scrolling and emotional dysregulation 09:53 Rising mental health struggles and what dysregulation looks like 15:00 Setting phone boundaries that work 19:59 Why teens need space and independence 25:11 Why surveillance backfires, and how to build trust 30:01 Teaching teens to handle technology and online predators 35:12 Why your calm matters most 39:58 The Love Pause and other calming strategies 42:03 How to connect with Dr. Roseann   RESOURCES MENTIONED The Dysregulated Kid: A Practical Playbook by Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge Regulation First Parenting The CALMS System The Love Pause   CONNECT WITH DR. ROSEANN CAPANNA-HODGE Website: DrRoseann.com Program: Regulation First Parenting   CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy   ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Why does your teen trigger you so fast? One eye roll, one tone, and suddenly you're reacting in ways you swore you never would. It's easy to focus on changing your teen's behavior. But many of us carry wounds from our own childhood that shape how we respond to conflict, criticism, and connection with our teens. 👉 Want to stay calm when your teen pushes your buttons? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to respond instead of react, repair after hard moments, and build the secure relationship they wish they'd had. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Eli Harwood, a licensed therapist, attachment expert, and bestselling author known as Attachment Nerd. We talk about how generational trauma repeats itself in families, why secure attachment doesn't require perfect parenting, and how balancing softness with sturdiness helps teens grow into confident, independent adults. The good news: you don't have to get it right every time. You have to be willing to repair. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How wounds from your own childhood show up when your teen triggers you Why secure attachment comes from softness and sturdiness, not perfection Why you only need to get it right some of the time How to repair after you lose it, and why the U-turn matters How to stop repeating generational patterns, and where to find support EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 What attachment means for parents of teens 02:58 Why we have to deal with our own stuff 06:05 Letting go of shame in parenting 08:58 When parents lean on teens for their emotional needs 12:00 Hearing feedback from your teen 14:59 How defensiveness hurts the relationship 17:57 Building trust with your teen 22:09 How to respond instead of react 24:37 Why teens need both structure and nurture 26:56 Keeping trust and connection strong 29:12 Understanding teen development 32:22 Embracing the messiness of adolescence 34:51 Why parents need community 37:12 Finding support and healing 39:11 The power of connection and attachment RESOURCES MENTIONED How to Deal with Your Sh*t So Your Kids Don't Have To by Eli Harwood Securely Attached by Eli Harwood Attachment Nerd Secure Parent Program CONNECT WITH ELI HARWOOD Website: AttachmentNerd.com Instagram: @AttachmentNerd Facebook: @AttachmentNerd YouTube: Attachment Nerd CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Do conversations with your teen often turn into arguments, silence, or frustration? Many of us try to help by giving advice, solving problems, or closely managing our teen's life. But those well-meant efforts can push teens away. 👉 Ready to stop the power struggles? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to step back without checking out, listen instead of lecture, and become the person their teen wants to come to. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with JoAnn Crohn, a certified parent coach, bestselling author, and host of the No Guilt Mom podcast. We talk about why overparenting is often driven by fear, how curiosity builds more connection than control, and why your own happiness as a parent matters more than you might think. If you're ready to stop the power struggles and build a relationship where your teen wants to come to you, this episode is full of practical strategies and eye-opening insights.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How overparenting and anxiety can push your teen away Why curiosity builds trust faster than lectures How to validate your teen's feelings without trying to fix every problem Simple ways to encourage independence while strengthening your relationship Why your own happiness plays a bigger role than you think   EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 The parent-teen dynamic 02:54 Why your happiness matters 06:00 Handling pressure and expectations as a parent 08:52 How overparenting backfires 12:00 Managing emotions and validating your teen 15:01 Social media in teen life 22:48 Bullying and social media 24:30 A parent's role in digital safety 26:39 Why teens need connection in a digital age 29:57 Building trust and communication with teens 32:43 Observing vs. instructing 36:38 Encouraging independence and curiosity 41:49 Handling relationship misunderstandings   RESOURCES MENTIONED The Best Mom Is a Happy Mom by JoAnn Crohn No Guilt Mom Podcast   CONNECT WITH JOANN CROHN Website: NoGuiltMom.com Instagram: @NoGuiltMom Podcast: No Guilt Mom   CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy   ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Parenting Anxious Teens: How to Build Confidence Instead of Fear | Dana Colthart Does your teen avoid challenges, shut down under pressure, or constantly seek reassurance? It can be hard to know whether they're simply nervous or struggling with anxiety—and many of the ways parents naturally try to help can actually make anxiety worse. In this episode, Dr. Cam sits down with licensed clinical social worker Dana Colthart, who specializes in treating OCD, anxiety, panic disorders, and eating disorders, to discuss practical strategies for supporting anxious teens. Together, they explain why avoidance strengthens anxiety, how parents can validate their teen's fears without reinforcing them, and what it really takes to build resilience and confidence. If you're tired of watching your teen struggle and wondering how to help without making things worse, this episode offers expert guidance and actionable tools.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE How to recognize when your teen's anxiety has become avoidance—and why that matters Why reassurance and accommodation often make teen anxiety worse instead of better How to validate your teen's fears while helping them build confidence through discomfort Simple parenting strategies that support resilience without increasing anxiety   🎧❤️ ENJOYING THE SHOW? Don't keep it to yourself! Share your favorite episode and leave a rating and review to help other parents find the support they need. Your feedback helps me create even more episodes filled with practical tips for you and your family! Thanks so much for your support! 🙏💫 🔔 Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE so you never miss another solution-packed episode! 🙌   RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Cognitive Diffusion Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)   CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Dana Colthart Website: https://www.danacolthart.com Practice: Clear Light Therapy New Jersey   CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST: Dr. Cam Caswell Website: askdrcam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell TikTok: @the.teen.translator YouTube: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Facebook: @DrCamCaswell   EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Understanding Teen Anxiety and Avoidance 02:54 The Role of Diagnosis in Treatment 05:42 Identifying and Addressing Avoidance Behaviors 08:36 Mistakes Parents Make in Supporting Anxious Teens 11:20 The Importance of Communication and Support 14:18 Navigating Self-Defeating Thoughts 17:02 The Power of Diffusion Techniques 20:02 Building Patience and Understanding 22:46 Managing Urgency and Expectations 25:32 Creating a Safe Space for Recovery 28:30 The Role of Parental Support in Treatment 31:23 Final Thoughts and Resources   ABOUT THE SHOW The Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Podcast is your go-to resource for navigating the challenges of raising teenagers. Hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach, this podcast offers practical parenting strategies, expert advice, and real-world insights to help you build a stronger relationship with your teen and support their emotional growth. Whether you're struggling with teenage behavior or looking to improve communication, each episode provides actionable tips to make parenting teens easier and more rewarding. Perfect for both new and seasoned parents, this podcast helps you build the confidence to handle teen challenges and thrive together. #theteentranslator #drcamcaswell #parentingteenswithdrcam #TeenAnxiety #MentalHealth

Talking to your teen about sex is one of the conversations we dread most. But avoiding it can leave teens turning to friends, social media, or porn for answers. So how do you have an honest conversation without making everyone want to disappear? 👉 Want your teen to come to you with the hard questions? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn what to say in awkward moments, stay calm when the topic gets uncomfortable, and become the person their teen trusts with the big stuff. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Amy Lang, M.A., a sexuality educator, parent educator, and author of Sex Talks with Tweens. Amy shares how to swap fear and awkwardness for confidence and connection, and how to talk about consent, porn, LGBTQ+ support, body autonomy, and sexual health in ways teens can hear. Whether you're wondering when to start these conversations or how to recover after saying the wrong thing, this episode will help you build trust and prepare your teen for healthy relationships and safer choices.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why preparing your teen for healthy relationships works better than trying to prevent sex How to talk about consent, porn, birth control, and healthy sexuality without shame Why short, frequent talks work better than one big talk How to recover when you say the wrong thing How supporting LGBTQ+ teens and creating a judgment-free home builds safety and trust   EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why talking about sex feels so awkward 03:01 Why your values matter in sex education 06:00 Preparing teens for healthy relationships 08:54 What teens already know, and what they don't 11:56 Sexuality and identity exploration 14:57 Talking about pleasure and consent 17:36 Supporting LGBTQ+ teens 20:25 Building trust and connection with your teen 23:27 Keeping the conversation open 24:12 What to do when it gets awkward 27:40 Healthy relationships and consent 30:26 Preparing teens for real-life situations 34:38 How porn affects teens 38:20 Consent and relationship red flags 43:32 Supporting neurodivergent families 47:29 Resources for parents and teens   RESOURCES MENTIONED Sex Talks with Tweens by Amy Lang Amaze.org Body Drama by Michele Slee Raising Teens Who Talk to You (Happily Family)   CONNECT WITH AMY LANG Website: BirdsAndBeesAndKids.com Instagram: @birdsbeeskids Facebook: @birdsandbeeskids YouTube: @birdsbeeskids Podcast: Just Say This!   CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy   ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Does it feel like you're always competing with your teen's phone for their attention? Many of us worry that endless scrolling is replacing curiosity, conversation, and family time. But what if getting your teen off their phone isn't about taking it away? What if it's about giving them something better to move toward? 👉 Want your teen to choose time with you over another hour of scrolling? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to set screen limits without the battles, connect through their teen's interests, and get their teen talking to them again. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Ty Allan Jackson, an award-winning children's book author, literacy advocate, and youth motivational speaker. We talk about why phones aren't the real enemy, how to set screen time boundaries without constant conflict, and simple ways to make teens want to spend more time with you. Ty believes there's no kid who doesn't love to read. There are only kids who haven't found the right book yet. And the same goes for connection.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How to reduce screen time without constant power struggles Why connection works better than trying to control phone use How to spark curiosity and reading by building on what your teen already loves Why asking your teen to teach you something builds confidence and conversation Simple ways to set tech boundaries while strengthening your relationship   EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why screens are crowding out curiosity 02:54 How reading changed Ty's life 05:50 Building connection beyond screens 09:00 How to find the right book for your teen 11:49 Why relationships open up communication 14:55 Setting screen time boundaries 18:02 Connecting through your teen's interests 21:00 Why joy matters: being a playful parent   RESOURCES MENTIONED Ty Allan Jackson's books   CONNECT WITH TY ALLAN JACKSON Website: TyAllanJackson.com Instagram: @TyAllanJackson X: @TyAllanJackson Facebook: Ty Allan Jackson   CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy   ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Co-parenting is hard enough when both parents are on the same team. When your co-parent is narcissistic, or turns every parenting decision into a competition, it can leave you exhausted, second-guessing yourself, and worried about your kids. 👉 Feeling like you're holding the whole thing together? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, you'll find calm ways to handle the hard moments, steady support, and a community of parents who get it, so your home can be the safe place your teen needs. Try it free for 7 days (www.skool.com/parenting-teens-academy.) In this episode, I sit down with clinical psychologist Dr. Kibby McMahon, CEO of KulaMind and an expert in personality disorders. We talk about why narcissistic co-parents thrive on power struggles, how to stop getting pulled into the drama, and how to protect your kids while keeping your own peace. If you're tired of defending yourself, feeling manipulated, or wondering how to give your kids stability despite a difficult co-parent, this episode gives you practical tools and some much-needed reassurance. If you or your kids are ever unsafe, contact local emergency services or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How to recognize narcissistic co-parenting behaviors and avoid endless power struggles How the Gray Rock technique helps you respond without escalating conflict How to set boundaries and communicate when collaboration feels impossible How to protect your kids from unhealthy dynamics and help them build resilience   EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Co-parenting with a narcissist 01:10 Meet Dr. Kibby McMahon 02:50 What narcissism is 05:21 Why narcissistic dynamics become a competition 09:14 How to stop getting pulled into the fight 10:50 The Gray Rock technique explained 15:05 Using collaborative communication 18:17 Handling different parenting styles 20:56 Helping kids navigate two households 23:02 Making requests that work 25:34 Can kids develop narcissistic traits? 28:35 Avoiding the counter-reaction trap 30:42 Final advice for parents 32:16 Resources and closing thoughts   RESOURCES MENTIONED Gray Rock communication technique   CONNECT WITH DR. KIBBY MCMAHON Website: KulaMind.com Instagram: @dr.kibby Podcast: A Little Help for Our Friends   CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell    ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Grief in teens rarely looks the way we expect. Instead of tears and open conversations, it often shows up as irritability, withdrawal, risk-taking, or emotional distance. That can leave us wondering whether our teen is grieving at all, or how to help if they are, especially when we're grieving too. 👉 Trying to hold your teen up while you're running on empty? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, you'll find steady support from me, a community of parents who get it, and calm ways to stay close to your teen through the hardest seasons. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with grief expert and Master Certified Life Coach Krista St. Germain, host of The Widowed Mom Podcast, who knows loss firsthand. We talk about what grief looks like in teens, why some common ways of helping can backfire, how loss affects the brain and body, and how to support your teen while you're carrying your own grief. Whether your teen is grieving a death, a lost friendship, a major life change, or the losses that come with growing up, this conversation will help you support them with more confidence and compassion. If your teen's grief comes with signs of hopelessness or talk of self-harm, reach out to a mental health professional right away. In the US, call or text 988 anytime.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why grief in teens often looks like typical teen behavior, and the hidden signs to watch for The Dual Process Model of Grief, and why the five stages of grief are outdated What to say, and what to avoid saying, to a grieving teen How to support your teen while you're grieving too How showing your own emotions helps your teen build resilience   EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 What grief looks like in teens 02:57 Krista's personal story of loss 05:51 Outdated beliefs about grief 08:53 The Dual Process Model of Grief 12:04 When parents are grieving too 15:00 Recognizing grief in teenagers 17:53 Why grieving together matters 18:41 Handling your own emotions as a parent 20:00 Supporting grieving kids 22:31 Helping kids feel capable through grief 24:41 Believing in your teen's resilience 26:49 Trusting the process of growth 30:42 Finding meaning in hardship   RESOURCES MENTIONED Dual Process Model of Grief (Stroebe & Schut) Post-traumatic growth research The Widowed Mom Podcast   CONNECT WITH KRISTA ST. GERMAIN Website: CoachingWithKrista.com Podcast: The Widowed Mom Podcast Instagram: @lifecoachkrista YouTube: Krista St-Germain Facebook: Coaching with Krista   CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy   ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Is your teen struggling with ADHD or anxiety, or with being a teenager? More teens than ever are being diagnosed with ADHD, anxiety, depression, and autism. In this episode, child and adolescent psychiatrist Dr. Sami Timimi joins me to talk about when a diagnosis helps and when it gets in the way. 👉 Want to know when to worry and when to breathe? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to respond to their teen with calm and clarity, fight less about grades, phones, and attitude, and get their teen talking to them again. Try it free for 7 days As parents, we're trying to figure out which mood swings, outbursts, and worries are part of growing up and which ones signal something more serious. Dr. Timimi, author of Searching for Normal, explains why treating everyday teen struggles as disorders can chip away at resilience and confidence. He also shares why a strong relationship with your teen often does more than trying to fix them. If you're wondering whether therapy, medication, or a diagnosis is the right next step, this conversation will help you think it through with a clear head. This episode isn't a replacement for professional care. If you're worried about your teen's safety, reach out to a doctor or mental health professional right away. In the US, call or text 988 anytime.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How to tell normal teen behavior from a serious mental health concern Why moodiness, worry, and defiance are often part of healthy development The hidden risks of over-diagnosing ADHD, anxiety, and depression in teens How clinical labels can shape the way teens see themselves How to build a resilient teen without overprotecting or over-controlling EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 The rise in teen mental health diagnoses 05:41 Are we over-diagnosing normal teen behavior? 11:04 Building resilience instead of fixing teens 16:25 Why modern parenting runs on fear 21:56 How clinical labels shape teen identity   RESOURCES MENTIONED Searching for Normal by Dr. Sami Timimi As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.   CONNECT WITH DR. SAMI TIMIMI Website: samitimimi.co.uk Instagram: @dr_samitimimi   CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell TikTok: @the.teen.translator Facebook: @DrCamCaswell   ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

If your teenager suddenly seems distant, emotional, or wants nothing to do with you, you’re not failing as a parent — and you’re definitely not alone. In this eye-opening episode of the Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Podcast, Dr. Cam Caswell sits down with Aliyah Singh, Hannah Ticajo, and Caitlin Severin from CultivaTeen Roots to unpack the real reason teens push parents away — and why it’s actually a normal part of adolescent development. Together, they explore the science behind parenting teens, emotional safety, communication, self-regulation, and healthy family relationships. You’ll learn why controlling behavior often damages connection, how social media impacts parenting expectations, and why the key to raising confident, independent teens is shifting from managing them to supporting them. This conversation is packed with practical parenting strategies to help parents reduce conflict, strengthen trust, improve communication with teenagers, and rediscover joy in the teen years. If you’re exhausted by constant power struggles, worried about losing connection with your child, or wondering how to support your teen without pushing them further away, this episode will give you hope, clarity, and actionable tools you can start using immediately.   WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE Why teens naturally pull away from parents during adolescence — and what it actually means for your relationship How emotional safety and nervous system regulation improve communication with teenagers The parenting shift that helps teens become more independent, responsible, and emotionally resilient Practical ways to build stronger family relationships without control, pressure, or constant conflict   5 KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR PARENTS OF TEENS 1. Connection Grows Through Presence, Not Pressure Spending calm, low-pressure time together helps teens feel emotionally safe and more willing to connect naturally. 2. Teens Need Support More Than Control Shifting from “manager” to “consultant” helps teenagers build confidence, independence, and problem-solving skills. 3. Regulated Parents Create Safer Relationships Parents who practice self-regulation model emotional safety and help reduce tension and conflict at home. 4. Reflective Listening Builds Trust Teens open up more when parents listen without interrogating, fixing, or immediately offering advice. 5. The Teen Years Shape Long-Term Family Relationships How parents respond during adolescence strongly impacts future adult relationships with their children.   🎧❤️ ENJOYING THE SHOW? Don’t keep it to yourself! Share your favorite episode and leave a rating and review to help other parents find the support they need. Your feedback helps us create even more episodes filled with practical parenting strategies and encouragement for families raising teens. Thanks so much for your support! 🙏💫 🔔 Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE so you never miss another solution-packed episode!   RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Listeners can use the code CONNECT to get 20% off of our foundational online course, Making AdoleSense.   CONNECT WITH OUR GUESTS Aliyah Singh, Hannah Ticajo & Caitlin Severin — Cultivate Teen Roots Website: Cultivate Teen Roots Instagram: @CultivateTeenRoots   CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST Dr. Cam Caswell Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell TikTok: @the.teen.translator YouTube: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Facebook: @DrCamCaswell   EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Joyful Parenting 02:59 Understanding the Challenges of Parenting Teens 05:50 Reframing Connection with Teens 08:42 Shifting from Control to Support 11:21 The Importance of Emotional Safety 14:29 Finding Joy in the Teen Years 17:07 The Role of Curiosity in Parenting 19:56 Navigating Insecurities and Building Trust 22:58 Creating a Safe Space for Communication 25:45 Letting Go of Control and Embracing Change 28:40 Finding Community and Support 31:40 Conclusion and Resources   ABOUT THE SHOW The Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Podcast is your go-to resource for navigating the challenges of raising teenagers. Hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach, this podcast offers practical parenting strategies, expert advice, and real-world insights to help you build stronger family relationships and support your teen’s emotional growth. Whether you’re struggling with communication, teenage behavior, emotional outbursts, or parenting stress, each episode provides actionable tools to help parenting teens feel more connected, calm, and rewarding. #theteentranslator #drcamcaswell #parentingteenswithdrcam #ParentingTeens #FamilyRelationships

How do you raise a confident, resilient, successful teen? Sheinelle Jones interviewed the moms behind some of the most extraordinary people of our time, including Lady Gaga, Serena and Venus Williams, Steph Curry, and the Jonas Brothers, to find out. 👉 Wondering if you're doing this right? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents trade second-guessing for confidence, stay present without losing their cool, and build the kind of relationship their teen comes back to as an adult. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Sheinelle Jones, co-host of Today with Jenna & Sheinelle and author of Through Mom's Eyes: Simple Wisdom From Mothers Who Raised Extraordinary Humans. Here's what stood out: it's not about perfect parenting, strict rules, or doing everything "right." It's about presence, trust, and knowing what matters most in the moments that feel hardest. We talk about what these moms did differently, the biggest regrets they shared (especially around screen time), and why your teen not appreciating you right now doesn't mean you're failing. If you've ever wondered, "Am I doing this right?" this episode will bring you clarity, perspective, and a whole lot of relief.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN The surprising traits that moms of highly successful people share Why presence matters more than perfection, and what that looks like with teens today The biggest parenting regrets, and how to course-correct now Why your teen's lack of appreciation is normal, and what it says about your relationship What it means to fight for your joy, even in hard seasons   EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why parents question themselves more than ever 02:51 What moms of extraordinary people did differently 05:48 The power of presence and community 08:58 Letting go of perfect parenting 11:58 Fighting for your joy and building resilience 14:52 Raising teens in a digital age, and screen time regrets 17:51 What motherhood teaches us   RESOURCES MENTIONED Through Mom's Eyes: Simple Wisdom From Mothers Who Raised Extraordinary Humans by Sheinelle Jones As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.   CONNECT WITH SHEINELLE JONES Show: Today with Jenna & Sheinelle Profile: NBC Insider Instagram: @sheinelle_o   CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy   ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

If your teen is hiding things or not telling you the full truth, it can feel like you're losing them. And our instinct is to tighten the rules, ask more questions, and stay on top of everything. But here's the part most parents aren't told. Teen secrecy usually isn't about rebellion or disrespect. It's about development. 👉 Want to be the one your teen comes to when it matters most? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, you'll learn my COLLABORATE Method, so you can make honesty feel safe, stay calm when the truth is hard to hear, and keep your teen talking to you. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I break down why teens keep secrets, what's going on in their brain, and why common reactions like punishment, pressure, and constant checking often make things worse. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why teen secrecy doesn't always mean what you think it means The response that often makes teens hide even more What parents miss when they focus only on getting the truth How to become the person your teen comes to when it matters most EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why teen secrecy feels so scary 04:30 What's going on in your teen's brain 09:00 Why punishment backfires 13:30 How to make honesty feel safer 18:00 Shifting from control to connection THE SERIES This episode is part of the series 7 Teen Behaviors Parents Punish That Are Actually Signs of Healthy Development. Episode 269: Attitude Episode 271: Refusing to do chores Episode 273: Arguing about everything Episode 275: Acting entitled Episode 277: Making risky and bad choices CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical tools to reduce conflict, build connection, and help your teen grow into a capable, confident adult. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

What would you do if your teen told you a classmate was making threats? Most of us freeze, unsure whether to panic, dismiss it, or act. 👉 Connection is one of the strongest protections a teen has. Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn how to stay close, notice when something's off, and become the person their teen turns to when life gets hard. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Nicole Hockley, co-founder of Sandy Hook Promise, who lost her six-year-old son Dylan in the 2012 Sandy Hook shooting. We talk about one of the most important skills a parent can build: knowing when something is wrong with your teen before it becomes a crisis. Nicole has spent more than a decade studying the warning signs that come before school violence and teen crisis. A crisis rarely comes out of nowhere. The signs are usually quiet, easy to explain away, and easy to miss.   IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL LEARN The difference between subtle and overt warning signs, and why the subtle ones are more dangerous Why telling your teen "you're overreacting" can make things worse The most powerful protective factor against teen crisis (hint: it's not monitoring) What to do when a peer reports something concerning about your child How to secure lethal means at home, and why this one step saves lives A tiered response plan that helps you stay calm and act at every level of concern   A WORD FROM NICOLE "I would much rather be embarrassed by being wrong than be horrified by being right."   IF YOU OR YOUR TEEN IS IN CRISIS 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988 Crisis Text Line: text HOME to 741741 Emergency: call 911 Reaching out for help is never an overreaction.   EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 How Sandy Hook changed school safety 00:29 Nicole Hockley's story and her son Dylan 01:24 How Sandy Hook Promise prevents violence 04:22 Warning signs of violence and struggle 07:22 When to act on escalating behavior 08:38 Building trust and open communication with teens 11:04 Responding to concerns about potential harm 12:29 Common mistakes parents make 16:21 What to do if your teen shows threatening behavior 20:38 A parent's role in prevention and safety 25:16 Key takeaway: relationships over control 26:52 How to be a trusted adult for your teen   RESOURCES MENTIONED Sandy Hook Promise's UnTargeting initiative and latest report with Children and Screens   CONNECT WITH NICOLE HOCKLEY AND SANDY HOOK PROMISE Website: SandyHookPromise.org Instagram: @sandyhookpromise Facebook: @SandyHookPromise X: @sandyhook TikTok: @sandyhookpromise YouTube: Sandy Hook Promise   CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy   ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

If consequences used to work… and now they just lead to more attitude, shutdowns, or the same fights on repeat—this episode will explain why. If you’re parenting a teen and struggling with defiance, power struggles, or constant pushback… you’re not alone. Because it’s not that your teen suddenly stopped caring. It’s that their brain has changed—and the tools that worked before don’t work the same way anymore. In this episode, Dr. Cam sits down with Charle Peck, LCSW, M.Ed., an international keynote speaker, clinical therapist, and former educator who specializes in helping people stay calm and effective under pressure. Charle works with parents, educators, and professionals to transform high-stress situations into opportunities for growth using practical, science-backed strategies. Together, they unpack what’s really going on when consequences backfire—and the simple shift that can completely change how your teen responds. What you’ll learn in this episode: 👉 Why teens push back harder the more you try to control them 👉 What your teen actually needs in high-conflict moments 👉 The hidden reason your reactions may be escalating things 👉 A powerful question that instantly lowers defensiveness 👉 What to do instead of consequences to get better behavior If you’re tired of power struggles, walking on eggshells, or feeling like nothing is working anymore… this episode will give you a whole new way to understand—and respond to—your teen. Because your teen isn’t broken. They’re developing. And they need a different approach.   🎧 Enjoying the show? Follow and leave a quick review so more parents can find the support they need. Connect with Charle Peck: 🌐 Website: https://www.thrivingeducator.org/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/charlepeck 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlepeck 🐦 X: https://twitter.com/CharlePeck   🎁 Resource Mentioned: Rapid Resets: https://www.charlepeck.com/pl/2148694979 Connect with your host, Dr. Cam: 🌐 Website: www.askdrcam.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcamcaswell

Are you constantly worried your teen is making bad choices, and feel like consequences are the only way to teach them a lesson? You're not alone, and you're not wrong to care. But what if the very thing we do to prevent bad decisions is making them worse? 👉 Want to stop policing and start guiding? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, you'll learn my COLLABORATE Method, so you can stay calm when your teen messes up, guide better choices without power struggles, and raise a teen who thinks for themselves. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, we dig into one of the biggest parenting traps: punishing the behavior instead of teaching the skills behind it. When your teen makes a risky, impulsive, or frustrating choice, it's easy to assume they're careless, defiant, or just not thinking. But something deeper is going on, and once you see it, how you respond starts to shift. This isn't about letting your teen get away with it, and it's not about lowering your standards. It's about giving your teen what they need in those moments, so they learn to make better decisions without you hovering, nagging, or stepping in. Because the goal isn't to control their choices forever. It's to raise a teen who can think for themselves when you're not there. This episode is for you if you've ever: Replayed a bad decision your teen made and wondered, "What were they thinking?" Felt stuck between being too strict and too lenient Worried that giving more freedom will lead to worse choices WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why teens make choices that don't make sense to you but make perfect sense to them The hidden reason punishment often leads to more lying, hiding, and disconnection What your teen needs in the moment of a bad decision (hint: it's not a lecture) How to help your teen build real decision-making skills without constant power struggles A simple mindset shift that changes how you respond right away THE SERIES This episode is part of the series 7 Teen Behaviors Parents Punish That Are Actually Signs of Healthy Development. Episode 269: Attitude Episode 271: Refusing to do chores Episode 273: Arguing about everything Episode 275: Acting entitled Coming next, Episode 280: Why teens keep secrets, and how to make honesty feel safer CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, real-life scripts, and expert insight to help you build a stronger relationship with your teen, without yelling, nagging, or walking on eggshells. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Teaching your teen to drive can feel terrifying. And if your teen is nervous behind the wheel, or keeps putting off getting their license, you're not alone. Many teens today feel anxious about driving, and the way we approach practice can either build their confidence or make the anxiety worse. 👉 Want to stay calm in the passenger seat and everywhere else? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to coach instead of criticize, keep their cool in stressful moments, and raise a teen who trusts them. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Nigel Tunnacliffe, CEO and co-founder of Coastline Academy, the largest driving school in the US, which has helped more than 250,000 teens learn to drive. Nigel shares what professional instructors know about building confidence in nervous teen drivers, and why well-meaning parents sometimes make it harder without realizing it. When we shift from critic to coach, teens learn faster, feel more confident, and build safer habits. This conversation will help you turn practice drives into confidence builders instead of power struggles.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why many teens today are delaying their driver's license How parent anxiety can make teen driving anxiety worse The biggest mistake parents make when teaching teens to drive How professional instructors build confidence in anxious teen drivers How to tell when your teen is ready to drive on their own How to make practice drives calmer and more productive for both of you   EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why teaching teens to drive feels so stressful 00:53 Why many teens are delaying their license 03:41 Helping anxious teen drivers build confidence 05:23 Encouraging teens without creating resistance 07:09 Managing your own anxiety during practice drives 09:56 Creating a calm learning environment 12:34 Celebrating small driving wins 15:25 Teaching through observation and empathy 19:02 Signs your teen is ready for more responsibility 21:29 Building safe driving habits 24:11 Helping teens feel confident behind the wheel 27:32 Setting boundaries for new drivers 29:19 Practical tips for safe practice drives   CONNECT WITH NIGEL TUNNACLIFFE AND COASTLINE ACADEMY Website: CoastlineAcademy.com Instagram: @coastlineacademy Facebook: @coastlineacademy   CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy   ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Is your teen acting entitled, ungrateful, or selfish, no matter how much you do for them? You're not alone, and it may not mean what you think. 👉 Want to raise a grateful teen without the guilt trips? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, you'll learn my COLLABORATE Method, so you can build responsibility and gratitude without shame, stay calm when your teen seems ungrateful, and keep your relationship strong. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I explain why teen entitlement is often a normal part of growing up. It's rooted in brain changes, identity formation, and intense self-focus, not bad character. And I share how to respond in a way that builds character, not resentment. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why lectures and guilt trips about gratitude backfire The psychology behind self-centered teen behavior How to teach gratitude without shame or comparison Practical ways to build empathy, responsibility, and perspective EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why teens seem so entitled 01:46 Understanding self-focus in teens 04:27 The role of gratitude in development 08:34 Building perspective through experience 12:08 Teaching gratitude as a skill 13:33 Rethinking how we respond 14:58 Wrap-up and what's next THE SERIES This episode is part of the series 7 Teen Behaviors Parents Punish That Are Actually Signs of Healthy Development. Episode 269: Attitude Episode 271: Refusing to do chores Episode 273: Arguing about everything Coming next, Episode 277: Why teens make risky and bad choices, and how changing your approach can improve their decision-making CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam blends brain science, practical tools, and real-life scripts so you can parent smarter, not harder. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Teen boys shutting down can feel like rejection, but it’s usually self-protection. If your teen son won’t talk, gives one-word answers, or avoids conversations completely, this episode will help you understand what’s going on—and what actually works. Dr. Cam Caswell (adolescent psychologist + certified parenting coach) and licensed professional counselor Jarrod Hoffman break down teen communication, emotional withdrawal, and trust-building strategies that help parents reconnect with teen boys. You’ll learn how to stop the lecture cycle, use reflective listening, and create emotional safety so your teenage son opens up again. What You’ll Learn: Why teen boys shut down emotionally during puberty (and why it’s not rejection) The #1 communication mistake parents make that pushes teen boys further away How to use reflection instead of rapid-fire questions to build trust The “10-Minute Play Rule” that strengthens parent-teen connection What to say when your teen goes silent (without panicking or lecturing) Why teens already know what they “should” be doing—and why more advice backfires How to build trust with your teenage son so he talks to you again Connect with Jarrod Hoffman: Website: jarrodhoffman.com Newsletter: Jarrod’s Monthly Newsletter Blog: jarrodhoffman.com/blog LinkedIn: Jarrod Hoffman Connect with Dr. Cam Caswell: Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell YouTube: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam (search “Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam”) Enjoying the show? Share your favorite episode and leave a rating and review so other parents can find the support they need. Hit SUBSCRIBE so you never miss a solution-packed episode. About the show: The Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Podcast is your go-to resource for navigating the challenges of raising teenagers. Hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach, each episode delivers practical parenting tools, expert insights, and real-world strategies to help you improve communication, reduce power struggles, and build a stronger relationship with your teen. #theteentranslator #drcamcaswell #parentingteenswithdrcam #teencommunication #parentingteenboys  

Does your teen talk back or turn every conversation into a debate? You're not alone. In this episode, I flip the script on what talking back means. What if your teen's arguing isn't disrespect but development? Those debates can be signs of growing critical thinking, identity, and moral reasoning. 👉 Tired of every disagreement turning into a power struggle? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, you'll learn my COLLABORATE Method, so you can stay in charge without escalating, handle pushback with calm, and get your teen talking to you instead of fighting you. Try it free for 7 days You'll learn why shutting down arguments with "because I said so" often creates more power struggles, not fewer. And you'll learn how to turn daily battles into chances to build confidence, connection, and real-life skills. If you're tired of feeling like the bad guy every time your teen pushes back, this episode will help you respond with clarity and calm, without giving up your authority. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why teen arguing is often a sign of healthy brain development, not defiance The hidden cost of "because I said so" parenting How to separate disagreement from disrespect The difference between debatable topics and non-negotiable boundaries Phrases that keep conversations open without giving up authority How healthy arguing helps teens resist peer pressure and advocate for themselves EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Behaviors that are signs of healthy development 01:18 Why arguing feels so frustrating 03:56 Arguing as executive function development 06:36 Teaching respectful disagreement 09:51 Debatable vs. non-negotiable topics 12:09 The COLLABORATE Method™ THE SERIES This episode is part of the series 7 Teen Behaviors Parents Punish That Are Actually Signs of Healthy Development. Episode 269: Attitude Episode 271: Refusing to do chores Coming next, Episode 275: Why teens act selfish and entitled CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Fighting with your teen about screens doesn’t mean you’re failing. It usually means you’re focusing on the wrong thing. In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, I’m joined by Stephen Balkam, Founder and CEO of the Family Online Safety Institute, who brings 30 years of experience helping families navigate online safety without fear or power struggles. We break down why traditional screen time rules backfire, why screen use matters more than minutes, and how parents can stay influential in a world where teens are using AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude for school, problem-solving, and decision-making. If you want to protect your teen online without losing trust or connection, this episode will help you rethink your approach. What You’ll Learn The biggest screen time mistake parents make (and what works better) Why quality of screen use matters more than quantity How the “co-pilot” approach keeps you involved without controlling Why involving teens in rule-setting increases follow-through What parents need to know about AI and critical thinking Simple boundaries that protect both safety and connection Resources Mentioned Family Online Safety Institute: https://www.fosi.org Seven Steps to Good Digital Parenting Digital Parenting Contract Template FOSI YouTube Channel AI tools discussed: ChatGPT, Claude Apps referenced: Pokémon Go, nature and star identification apps About the Guest Stephen Balkam is the Founder and CEO of the Family Online Safety Institute, a nonprofit working with major tech companies to make the online world safer for kids and families. He has been at the forefront of online safety for three decades and has witnessed the evolution from the early web to social media to today’s AI age. About the Show Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam helps parents stay calm, connected, and confident while navigating the challenges of raising teens. Hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. 👉 Learn more and access free resources at AskDrCam.com 📱 For daily parenting tools, follow @DrCamCaswell on Instagram

Teenager won't do chores? If you've asked your teen to help around the house and they reacted like you just requested a kidney, welcome. Here's the thing. The chore battle usually isn't about the chore. It's about what happens after you ask. The stalling. The eye rolls. The "in a minute." The sudden, deep commitment to scrolling. And you repeating yourself until your voice hits a pitch only dogs can hear. 👉 Tired of being the household nag? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, you'll learn my COLLABORATE Method, so you can get help around the house without the standoffs, stop repeating yourself, and raise a teen who pitches in. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I explain why teens resist chores, what's going on in the teen brain, and why the usual fixes (punishment, consequences, rewards, bribes, threats, and lectures) often backfire in the long run. It looks like a lazy teenager. It's usually a skill gap. You'll learn the simple shift that turns chores from a power struggle into cooperation, so you can get your teen to help without nagging, begging, or doing it all yourself. Plus the one mistake that teaches teens to avoid chores, and you, even more. If chores have turned into a nightly standoff in your house, this episode will change how you see it and what you do next. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why "clean your room" feels impossible to the teen brain, even when they want to do it How executive functioning affects your teen's ability to start and finish chores Why punishment and consequences make chore resistance worse over time How to break big chores into small steps your teen can manage The mindset shift that motivates teens to help without constant reminders How to build responsibility without damaging your relationship EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Is my teenager lazy? Why teens ignore chores 00:45 The nagging cycle every parent knows 02:57 Why punishing teens over chores backfires 03:49 Executive functioning in teens: the skill gap 06:30 Why "clean your room" feels like 97 tasks 07:46 Why chores have zero payoff for teens 09:05 Chores are a favor, so say thank you 10:05 Give your teen ownership 11:03 Chores that only affect them 12:11 Why a thank you beats any reward 14:03 Match chores to what your teen enjoys 16:57 Next up: why teens argue about everything THE SERIES This episode is part of the series 7 Teen Behaviors Parents Punish That Are Actually Signs of Healthy Development. Episode 269: Attitude Coming next, Episode 273: Why teens argue about everything CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam helps parents of teenagers handle everyday struggles with less conflict and more connection. Host Dr. Cam Caswell is an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach who translates teen brain science into practical parenting strategies you can use tonight. Each episode tackles real challenges like teen attitude, arguing, chores, motivation, screen time, school stress, anxiety, and communication, so you can build a stronger relationship with your teen and raise a confident, responsible young adult. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

A lot of us see the hours, hear the headphones, and picture the worst. Strangers. Predators. Secret chats. And the big one: "Is my kid addicted to this?" 👉 Want to set screen limits without the eye rolls and blowups? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to talk about tech without a fight, set limits their teen respects, and get their teen talking to them again. Try it free for 7 days So in this episode, I brought in someone who knows what's happening behind the scenes at Roblox. Tami Bhaumik is Vice President of Civility and Partnerships at Roblox. This conversation will either calm your nervous system or at least hand you a real plan.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN The one thing most parents misunderstand about Roblox, and why it matters for safety A major safety feature rolling out that could change how teens connect with others online The screen time question parents obsess over, and what signals a real problem Why "play with your teen" isn't cheesy advice, and how it leads to better conversations and more honesty How to set limits that don't trigger eye rolls, blowups, or shutdowns   EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 What Roblox is, and why parents misread it 05:41 The safety features you need to know 11:47 The parenting move that changes everything 16:49 Screen time: what's normal and what's not 22:38 How to work with your teen on safety 28:18 Tools, next steps, and where to start   RESOURCES MENTIONED Roblox Safety Center: parental controls, safety guides, video tutorials, and wellbeing resources for families   CONNECT WITH TAMI BHAUMIK Vice President of Civility and Partnerships, Roblox LinkedIn: Tami Bhaumik   CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy   ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you science-backed insights and real-life parenting tools, so you can stop second-guessing yourself and lead with more calm, clarity, and connection. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Eye rolls. Heavy sighs. That sharp, snarky tone that flips your nervous system in half a second. If your teen's "nasty attitude" instantly makes you think disrespect, defiance, or this needs to stop now, this episode will change how you see it. 👉 Want to stop the tone without starting a war? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, you'll learn my COLLABORATE Method, so you can stay calm when the attitude hits, hold boundaries without power struggles, and build respect that lasts. Try it free for 7 days This episode kicks off a new series on teen behaviors parents punish, even though they're often signs of healthy development. And we're starting with the one that triggers parents fastest: attitude. Here's the truth most of us were never told. What feels like disrespect in the moment is often your teen's nervous system in overload, paired with a brain that's wired for emotion but still learning regulation. When we shut it down with consequences or lectures, we don't teach respect. We teach defense. And that's where the power struggles, shutdowns, and distance begin. Every time your teen gets mouthy, snappy, or sarcastic, we have a choice. One response builds walls. The other builds trust. In this episode, I walk you through that choice and how to respond in a way that works, even when your teen isn't at their best. This episode is for you if you've ever wondered: Why does my teen get snarky over the smallest things? Am I accidentally making the attitude worse? How do I stop the tone without starting a war? WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why teen attitude usually has less to do with disrespect and more to do with brain development The hidden reason even well-meant questions can trigger snark and shutdown The parenting response that escalates attitude, and why most of us default to it The moment-by-moment choice that decides whether your teen opens up or closes off THE SERIES This episode kicks off the series 7 Teen Behaviors Parents Punish That Are Actually Signs of Healthy Development. Coming next, Episode 271: Why "not doing chores" is rarely about laziness, and how nagging trains teens to avoid responsibility CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is your go-to podcast for understanding teen behavior and responding in ways that build connection, not conflict. Hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, adolescent psychologist, parenting coach, and "The Teen Translator," each episode delivers science-backed insight and real-life parenting tools you can use. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Is your teen confiding in ChatGPT instead of you? Generative AI is now part of almost every corner of teen life, and it happened so fast that many of us feel a step behind. Are teens using AI to learn, to cheat, or something in between? Are they turning to it for emotional support? And what should we worry about versus react to out of fear? 👉 Want to be the one your teen turns to first? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to talk about tech and AI without lectures, stay calm when something worries them, and become the person their teen trusts with the hard stuff. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Alanna Powers-O'Brien, Research and Program Specialist at the Family Online Safety Institute and co-author of the national report Generative AI in Uncertain Times: How Teens Are Navigating a New Digital Frontier. We talk about what teens told researchers directly, what surprised even the experts, and why most parents are focused on the wrong risks. You'll hear why many teens don't want to cheat, why 42% use AI to talk through their emotions, and what teens wish parents understood before reacting.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How teens use ChatGPT and other AI tools for school, learning, and everyday problems Why many teens are confused about what counts as cheating with AI Why teens turn to AI for emotional support, and what it does and doesn't replace Teens' top concern about AI, and why it's not what most parents assume What teens wish parents understood before reacting   EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Teens and generative AI explained 01:03 Inside the research on teen AI use 02:40 How teens use ChatGPT and other AI tools 05:22 AI and cheating 08:22 The gray areas parents should understand 10:13 Teens' fears about losing critical thinking skills 12:05 AI and the future job market 12:59 Why teens talk to AI about their feelings 15:59 Why AI feels human to teens 17:16 Data privacy and safety concerns 18:40 Why AI is so appealing to teens 20:52 AI dependency and social connection 24:16 Accessibility and emotional support 25:54 What teens wish parents knew 27:56 Practical advice for parents   RESOURCES MENTIONED Generative AI in Uncertain Times: How Teens Are Navigating a New Digital Frontier Family Online Safety Institute   CONNECT WITH ALANNA POWERS-O'BRIEN Organization: Family Online Safety Institute Website: FOSI.org   CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy   ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Struggling with your teen's late nights, groggy mornings, and endless battles over bedtime? You're not alone, and you're not imagining it. 👉 Want bedtime without the battle and mornings without the struggle? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to set routines without nagging, stay calm at bedtime, and raise a teen who takes charge of their own mornings. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with certified Ayurvedic practitioner Nidhi Pandya to talk about why traditional sleep rules often fail with teenagers. We talk about how the teen body clock shifts during adolescence, why stress can disrupt sleep as much as screens, and why Ayurveda sees the hours before 2 AM as especially restorative. Nidhi shares practical tools rooted in Ayurvedic wisdom that help reduce resistance, build connection, and help teens ease into a better sleep schedule, without nagging, yelling, or forcing bedtime. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why your teen's late nights are biological, not just behavioral, and how to work with their changing body clock Why screens aren't the only sleep disruptor, and what else may be keeping your teen up How to create calming evening rituals that ease stress and strengthen connection The surprising morning strategy that builds responsibility, and why you need to stop being the household alarm clock EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why teens struggle with sleep 02:53 How the teen body clock shifts 05:39 Creating a sleep-friendly room 08:40 Negotiating bedtime with your teen 11:28 Natural tools for better sleep 14:18 Building trust and cooperation 17:16 Morning routines and responsibility 20:03 How parents influence teen sleep 22:55 Practical tips for better sleep 26:00 Creating a calm home RESOURCES MENTIONED Inner Climate Framework, Nidhi's rhythm-based Ayurvedic approach for families Whoop, a tracker for sleep, stress, and recovery Resonance breathing: nasal breathing with longer exhales Legs Up the Wall pose (Viparita Karani) Chamomile tea, magnesium balm, and lavender essential oil The NYT Crossword as a parent-teen connection activity CONNECT WITH NIDHI PANDYA Website: NidhiPandya.com Instagram: @my_ayurvedic_life CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Is your teen's bathroom counter starting to look like a Sephora exploded? You're not imagining it. The teen skincare craze is real, and TikTok is fueling it. But here's what most parents don't realize: many trendy products, harsh ingredients, and 10-step routines can damage teen skin. 👉 Want to guide your teen's choices without a power struggle? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to talk about trends, spending, and self-image without lectures, and become the voice their teen listens to over TikTok. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, sponsored by Bright Girl Skincare, I sit down with Dr. Angela Casey, a double board-certified dermatologist, skin cancer surgeon, mom of three, and founder of Bright Girl. She breaks down what teens need, what they don't, and how to steer them away from harmful trends and toward lifelong skin health. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why 6 to 8 step "SkinTok" routines backfire The 3 products teens need: cleanse, moisturize, protect Which ingredients to avoid, like harsh acids, scrubs, and retinols Why sun protection in the teen years matters for adult skin health How to talk to your teen about toning down the trends without a power struggle GET 15% OFF BRIGHT GIRL SKINCARE My teen is obsessed with Bright Girl, and she finally stopped raiding my bathroom counter. Dr. Casey set up a discount for our community. Shop with 15% off or use code DRCAM EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why teen skincare is suddenly out of control 04:52 The real dangers behind TikTok skincare 10:19 The three-step routine every teen needs 17:44 How early sun exposure leads to adult skin cancer 26:02 What to avoid: acids, beads, scrubs, and retinols 34:11 How to talk to your teen about skincare without lecturing 40:08 Why Bright Girl Skincare was created for teens RESOURCES MENTIONED Bright Girl Skincare (15% off) American Academy of Dermatology: sunscreen safety Differin (adapalene), an over-the-counter acne treatment Over-the-counter acne support: benzoyl peroxide washes and witch hazel toners CONNECT WITH DR. ANGELA CASEY Website: BrightGirl.com Instagram: @brightgirlbeauty TikTok: @brightgirlbeauty Facebook: @brightgirlbeauty LinkedIn: Dr. Angela Casey CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is your go-to guide for raising today's teens with more connection, confidence, and calm. Every episode brings expert insight and real-world strategies to help families thrive, not just survive, the teen years. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

If homework has turned into an exhausting nightly standoff, this episode is for you. Teens with ADHD aren't stubborn or unmotivated. They're stuck, thanks to executive functioning challenges like getting started, time blindness, working memory, and overwhelm. 👉 Tired of the nightly homework standoff? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn what to say when their teen is stuck, stay calm instead of pushing harder, and protect the relationship while the homework gets done. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with neurodivergent therapist Holly Blanc Moses. We talk about how shame and the gap between expectations and capacity make starting feel impossible, and we share brain-based, neurodiversity-affirming tools that turn standoffs into small wins, like time timers, body doubling, breaking tasks down, and solving problems together. You'll walk away with practical scripts and strategies that help your teen start and finish homework with more confidence and less conflict, while protecting your relationship. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why "stubborn" and "lazy" are the wrong story 5 neuroscience-backed strategies that end homework battles The 2-minute trick that helps ADHD teens get started on anything How to tell if your approach is adding stress your teen doesn't need EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why homework feels impossible: executive functioning 101 12:29 The expectation-capacity gap, and how to close it 24:37 Motivation vs. task analysis: mapping the first step 36:05 From shame to support: words that lower defenses 37:01 Co-regulation and trust: teaching when your teen is stressed 41:42 Tools that work: time timers, body doubling, and collaboration RESOURCES MENTIONED Time Timer Flown (body doubling platform) The 135 School Accommodations for Autistic & ADHD Students (50% off) CONNECT WITH HOLLY BLANC MOSES Website: HollyBlancMoses.com Practice (Raleigh, NC): Crossvine Counseling Instagram: @hollyblancmoses Facebook: @hollyblancmoses Facebook group for parents: Wired Differently YouTube: @autismadhdtvwithholly LinkedIn: Holly Blanc Moses CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

"I love my teen, but I don't like them right now." If you've ever thought that, you're far from the only one. When your teen is defiant, distant, or disconnected, love can feel hard to find. 👉 Want to enjoy your teen again? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to stop the yelling cycle, repair after hard moments, and move from constant conflict to calm, connected conversations. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with pediatric psychologist Dr. Ann-Louise Lockhart, author of Love the Teen You Have. She explains why the teen brain can seem as irrational as a toddler's, and shares practical, brain-based ways to rebuild connection without losing your authority or your sanity. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why your teen can seem irrational, and what brain science says about it How to stop the yelling and nagging cycle The difference between conditional and unconditional love in parenting Simple, curious conversations that rebuild trust How to repair your relationship, even when your teen won't talk EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 When parenting a teen gets hard 03:03 What's going on in the teen brain 05:54 Connection over control 08:51 Conditional vs. unconditional love 11:41 How your parenting style affects your relationship 14:35 Repairing your relationship with your teen 17:30 Why humility matters in parenting 20:30 Breaking the cycle of miscommunication 23:16 The power of apology and accountability 26:08 Creating a supportive home for your teen 28:59 Final thoughts RESOURCES MENTIONED Love the Teen You Have by Dr. Ann-Louise Lockhart Love the Teen You Have workbook CONNECT WITH DR. ANN-LOUISE LOCKHART Website: ANewDaySA.com Instagram: @dr.annlouise.lockhart YouTube: @dralockhart CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Why do I get so angry at my teenager? If your teen's backtalk or eye roll hits you harder than it should, and you've caught yourself thinking, "Why do I lose it over something so small?" this episode is for you. 👉 Tired of losing it over the small stuff? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to catch their triggers before they explode, repair after hard moments, and bring more calm into their home. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Shelly Robinson, certified conscious parenting coach and founder of Raising Yourself. We talk about why our teens' behavior can stir up our deepest wounds, and how healing our own past can change our relationship with them. Shelly shares her own path from reactive parenting and yelling matches to calm, emotionally intelligent conversations with her now 15-year-old son. You'll learn the link between your inner teen and your actual teen, how to spot triggers before they explode, and how to break cycles of shame, guilt, and control. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How unresolved childhood wounds fuel conflict with your teen, and why recognizing your inner teen is the first step to calmer parenting How to repair after conflict, including Shelly's "No-But Apology Formula" How to notice the body cues of a trigger, like a racing heart or a rush of heat, before they take over The self-compassion shift that changes how you talk with your teen EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why your teen triggers you 02:45 Shelly's path to conscious parenting 05:46 Why inner child work matters 08:43 Recognizing your emotional triggers 11:31 Handling teen behavior without reacting 14:31 The cycle of self-criticism 17:27 Reparenting yourself 20:10 Finding your voice 23:12 Building healthy communication RESOURCES MENTIONED Raising Yourself by Shelly Robinson Rewire: Your Neurotoolkit for Everyday Life CONNECT WITH SHELLY ROBINSON Website: ShellyRobinson.com Instagram: @raisingyourself Facebook: @raisingyourself TikTok: @raisingyourself CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

When parenting a teenager turns into a battleground between parents, everyone suffers, including your teen. One parent becomes the "tough one," the other becomes the "soft one," and teens quickly learn how to play the gap. 👉 Tired of being the bad cop, or the pushover? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to stay calm when they disagree, find common ground on the big decisions, and present a united front without pretending to agree on everything. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with couples therapist Dr. Tracy Dalgleish. We talk about why parents so often end up on opposite sides during the teen years, how tension between parents can get redirected onto the teen (known as family triangulation), and how to support each other even when you disagree. The good news: most parents share the same core values, even when their approaches look completely different. You don't need identical parenting styles. You need shared values, room for different ways of expressing them, and the skill of repair. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why teen conflict often divides parents, and how to stop it How family triangulation quietly hurts your whole family How to stay connected to your partner when your parenting styles clash How to repair after conflict and rebuild trust with your partner How to handle resentment, shame spirals, and pressure from extended family EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why parents end up on opposite sides 02:51 How parenting styles affect your relationship 05:59 Handling conflict and communication 08:53 Why self-reflection matters 11:49 Building a stronger partnership 14:22 Empathy for your partner's approach 17:16 Shame and taking responsibility 20:25 Aligning on shared values 23:10 Managing old patterns 25:21 How to disagree well 29:20 Playing to each other's strengths 30:19 Dealing with outside pressure 33:37 Why affirmation matters 37:45 Modeling self-reflection and self-care 42:02 Focusing on what you can control RESOURCES MENTIONED You, Your Husband and His Mother by Dr. Tracy Dalgleish Dear Dr. Tracy podcast CONNECT WITH DR. TRACY DALGLEISH Website: DrTracyD.com Instagram: @DrTracyD CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Is your teenager melting down after school, snapping at you, or shutting down completely? You're not alone, and it may not be bad behavior. 👉 Want calmer evenings and fewer blowups? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to stay steady when their teen explodes, spot the signs before a meltdown, and become the safe place their teen comes back to. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Jim Costello, creator of the Costello Method, to talk about why teen emotional explosions are often a nervous system in overload, not disrespect. We talk about why "sit still and listen" can make things worse, how to become a safe place instead of a trigger, and five body-based tactics you can use right away to calm your teen and lower the stress in your home. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why your teen's after-school meltdown can be a sign of overload, not bad manners How movement and co-regulation make calmer conversations possible Simple pressure and grounding techniques to use in high-stress moments How to spot early signs, like fidgeting or posture changes, before a blowup happens EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why teens melt down 03:56 How teen regulation develops 07:53 Understanding emotional dysregulation 13:54 Tools for co-regulation 18:39 Parent-teen dynamics in hard moments 24:15 Building movement routines together 30:31 Seeing behavior as dysregulation 43:13 Key takeaways for parents RESOURCES MENTIONED The Brain Follows by Dr. Jim Costello The Costello Method, focused on developmental plasticity and primitive reflex integration CONNECT WITH DR. JIM COSTELLO Website: DrJimCostello.com Instagram: @dr.jimcostello CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

If your teen feels distant, defiant, or shuts you out, you're not alone, and there's hope. 👉 Want to reach a teen who shuts you out? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to guide instead of control, start fresh after hard days, and build the kind of trust that keeps their teen coming back. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with foster and adoptive dad Peter Mutabazi, founder of the Now I Am Known Foundation. A survivor of childhood abuse and homelessness in Uganda, Peter has since fostered 47 children. He explains why teens can be easier to parent than younger kids, and how shifting from control to mentorship changes everything. You'll get practical, trauma-informed tools to lower conflict, rebuild trust, and guide your teen without power struggles, whether you're facing defiance, craving deeper connection, or simply want to understand your teen better. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How a foster dad of 47 connects with teens using mentorship instead of control Why your teen's acting out isn't about you, and the "three-person approach" that sees hormones, trauma, and normal development Why starting fresh every day builds trust How celebrating small wins and one-on-one time build confidence in defiant or withdrawn teens EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why parenting teens feels so hard 01:20 Peter's journey from Uganda 06:50 The power of being seen and known 09:55 Inside the foster care system 12:09 Building trust with foster teens 13:35 Mentor vs. parent: a new approach 17:41 Understanding teen trauma and behavior 20:21 Why you shouldn't project your past onto your teen 23:50 Celebrating small wins 28:14 Finding time and patience in a busy house 29:57 Using social media to change the story 35:01 Finding joy in parenting 38:38 Key takeaways for parents RESOURCES MENTIONED Now I Am Known Foundation Trauma-informed parenting strategies Foster care system and licensing information CONNECT WITH PETER MUTABAZI Website: Now I Am Known Instagram: @fosterdadflipper Facebook: Foster Dad Flipper TikTok: @FosterDadFlipper YouTube: Now I Am Known CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Does your teen skip deodorant, brush off every reminder, and not even seem to notice the smell? You're not imagining it, and there's a reason. Many teens can't smell their own body odor, which is why the daily reminders often go nowhere. 👉 Tired of nagging about deodorant and everything else? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to build habits without the battles, talk about awkward topics without shame, and raise a teen who takes ownership. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Carly Broderick, founder of Myles Personal Care, a gender-inclusive hygiene brand made for teens and tweens. Carly shares how parenting through puberty inspired her to create practical solutions for families. We talk about why teens resist basic hygiene, from puberty's "hurricane effect" to product sensitivities and even rebellion, and Carly shares her simple SSB routine that turns daily fights into lasting habits. Whether your teen is entering puberty or in the thick of it, this episode will help you replace nagging and shaming with routines that help your teen feel confident in their own skin. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How to get your teen to wear deodorant without daily reminders Why teens often don't notice their own body odor Why nagging and shaming backfire when it comes to teen hygiene Carly's SSB routine that makes hygiene habits stick How to frame hygiene as confidence and maturity, not just compliance EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why teens resist hygiene 02:41 Creating inclusive personal care products 05:34 Why the right deodorant matters 08:36 Masculinity, femininity, and personal care 11:30 Building healthy hygiene routines 14:18 Social pressure and body odor awareness 17:05 Helping teens own their personal care 19:51 Simplifying shower routines 22:40 Final thoughts and practical tips RESOURCES MENTIONED Myles Personal Care on Amazon: use code DRCAMFAN20 for 20% off As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. CONNECT WITH CARLY BRODERICK Website: Hey-Miles.com Instagram: @heymilesbrand TikTok: @heymilesbrand Facebook: @hey.miles.teen LinkedIn: Carly Broderick CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Finding out your teen has seen porn can bring up fear, anger, or even shame. But here's the truth: most teens will come across porn at some point, and how you respond matters far more than whether it happens. 👉 Want your teen to come to you instead of hiding? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn what to say in awkward moments, stay calm when they find something upsetting, and become the person their teen trusts with the hard stuff. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Greta Eskridge, author of It's Time to Talk to Your Kids About Porn. Greta shares how her own family's healing led to her work, and why shaming or punishing kids backfires and pushes them toward secrecy and guilt. Teen curiosity about sex is natural. The problem is porn's fake, harmful picture of intimacy, and that's where we come in. The goal is to make it us against the porn, not us against our kid. This conversation gives you the words, the questions, and the confidence to get there. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why shaming your teen about porn often increases secrecy and risky behavior How to use the "Check Your Face" method to stay calm when you first find out The questions to ask, for your teen's safety, without turning it into an interrogation How to shift from being your teen's adversary to their teammate How to repair the relationship if you've already reacted in a way you regret EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why we need to talk about porn and teens 01:04 Greta's story: from personal pain to advocacy 02:13 How common porn is in youth culture 03:26 Why teens are naturally curious 04:47 Parents' fears when they discover porn 07:00 The overreaction cycle and its consequences 09:31 Why shame doesn't work 12:55 First steps when you discover porn use 16:18 Building connection and open dialogue 18:49 Understanding the impact of porn 21:59 Keeping the conversation going 24:24 Creating a safe space to talk 27:13 The reality behind porn 28:28 Preparing for hard conversations 31:22 Repairing the relationship 33:33 Empathy in parenting 36:13 Shifting how you see the challenge 38:18 Building open communication with teens RESOURCES MENTIONED It's Time to Talk to Your Kids About Porn by Greta Eskridge Adventuring Together by Greta Eskridge 100 Days of Adventure by Greta Eskridge CONNECT WITH GRETA ESKRIDGE Website: GretaEskridge.com Instagram: @greta.eskridge Podcast: The Greta Eskridge Podcast CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Are you stuck in an emotional Groundhog Day with your teen, where the same arguments, defiance, and standoffs keep repeating? You're not alone. 👉 Tired of having the same fight on repeat? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to stay calm in the heat of the moment, influence their teen without trying to control them, and repair after hard conversations. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with therapist and bestselling author Kati Morton to talk about why punishment-based parenting so often fails with teenagers, and how to break these frustrating cycles. Kati explains that adolescence is about seeking independence, not rebellion. When we try to control teens with consequences, we often fuel the very behaviors we want to stop. Instead, she shares how to shift from control to influence, using curiosity and connection to build lasting respect and trust. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why punishing your teen often makes behavior worse, not better The shift from control to influence, and why it works What to say when your teen breaks a rule, so you don't react in the heat of the moment How to use "wise mind" to stay calm during conflict Simple ways to spark honest conversations without forcing them EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Stuck in the same fight with your teen 03:01 The illusion of control in parenting 05:56 Independence and communication with teens 08:46 Why honesty and vulnerability matter 11:44 Empathy for what teens are going through 14:50 When teens take risks 20:11 What's behind risky behavior 21:27 Why punishment doesn't work 23:49 Curiosity over judgment 25:16 Understanding teen behavior 27:09 Building trust and influence 29:21 How to talk so teens listen 31:38 Repairing after mistakes 38:40 The power of curiosity RESOURCES MENTIONED Why Do I Keep Doing This? by Kati Morton Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): emotion mind vs. wise mind Skinner box research on punishment Parts work therapy for understanding emotional responses CONNECT WITH KATI MORTON Website: KatiMorton.com Instagram: @katimorton YouTube: Kati Morton TikTok: @katimorton Facebook: Kati Morton CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Do you feel like you're constantly walking on eggshells with your teen, afraid that one wrong word will set off an argument? You're not alone. 👉 Tired of tiptoeing in your own home? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to set boundaries that hold, stay calm when their teen gets disrespectful, and feel confident at home again. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Jenny Hwang, a clinical psychologist and parent coach with more than 20 years of experience helping families through conflict. Dr. Hwang explains why traditional boundaries often backfire with teens, why so many parents end up feeling walked over, and how to set limits in a way that works. If you're ready to step out of the exhausting cycle of battles and create a calmer, more respectful home, this episode is for you. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why most parents misunderstand what boundaries are The difference between rules that control and boundaries that empower How to handle disrespectful talk without losing your cool Why your teen's push for independence isn't rebellion, it's healthy development EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Understanding boundaries with teens 04:27 What boundaries really are 08:01 When parents and teens overstep 12:17 Handling emotional triggers 17:37 Why mutual respect matters 21:39 Learning to say no 25:45 The challenge of control 30:34 The power of presence and attention 35:08 Social media and parenting 38:43 Key takeaways: setting boundaries that work CONNECT WITH DR. JENNY HWANG Instagram: @ProjectParentCoach YouTube: @ProjectParentCoach CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

If you've ever ended the day thinking, "Ugh, I was way too impatient. I didn't handle that well. I need to do better," you're not alone. Parenting teens has a way of making even the most loving parents feel like they're always falling short. 👉 Tired of feeling like you're getting it all wrong? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents trade second-guessing for confidence, learn to notice what's going right, and get support from parents who get it. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with counselor Erin Morrison, creator of The Conscious Mom and author of Three Minutes for Mom. Erin explains why our brains focus on the negative, how to stop taking our teen's behavior so personally, and what it means to be "doing enough." She also shares a simple 3-minute daily practice to help you reconnect with yourself and your teen. If you're constantly hard on yourself, overwhelmed by parenting pressure, or tired of feeling like you're not enough, this episode is your reset. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why your teen's boundary-pushing can be a good sign A 3-minute daily practice that helps you feel like a good parent again How to shift from constant self-criticism to quiet confidence How to stop taking your teen's behavior personally What you're getting right, even when it doesn't feel like it EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why parenting teens feels so hard 03:05 Reframing how we see parenting 05:42 Noticing your parenting wins 08:46 Why you need to recognize yourself 11:24 Responding vs. reacting 14:25 How you see yourself shapes how you parent 17:28 Building a positive relationship with your teen 20:25 Practical steps for self-care 23:19 Finding balance 26:36 Grounding in what's true 29:09 Tiny shifts, big changes 32:35 Balancing the work and fun of parenting 35:40 Understanding teen development 37:59 Letting go to stay connected 46:20 Ownership and independence RESOURCES MENTIONED Three Minutes for Mom by Erin Morrison "Catch Them Being Kind" 5-Day Challenge The "Friend Perspective" and "It's Not Personal, It's Developmental" reminders CONNECT WITH ERIN MORRISON Website: TheConsciousMom.com Instagram: @itsthe.consciousmom CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Ever wish you had a pause button, for your teen or for yourself? When you're caught in a meltdown, shutdown, or power struggle, it's easy to react and regret it later. 👉 Want fewer blowups to manage in the first place? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to spot the warning signs early, stay calm when emotions run high, and bring peace back to their home. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Jennie Phillips, a coach, fitness pro, mom of four, and author of Yellow Light Moments. Jennie shares her simple 3-step method, Yield, Listen, Move, to help families slow down and reset before emotions explode. If your family is running on exhaustion and conflict, a few intentional minutes can change a lot. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN A 3-step pause that stops teen blowups before they start How to create a shared emotional language with your teen, like "caterpillar" or "question quota" Why your teen's "laziness" might be healthy self-regulation How guilt about self-care can hurt your parenting EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why parents and teens need a pause 01:09 What Yellow Light Moments are 06:38 How to stop a teen meltdown before it starts 12:27 Why pausing prevents blowups 20:24 Training yourself to yield 25:44 What changes when you pause 29:37 Modeling calm for your teen 33:56 Final thoughts and action steps RESOURCES MENTIONED Yellow Light Moments by Jennie Phillips Yellow Light Moments Toolbox for Teens As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. CONNECT WITH JENNIE PHILLIPS Website: JenniePhillipsCoaching.com Instagram: @jenniephillipscoaching CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Worried your teen might fall into the wrong hands online? You're not being overprotective. You're being smart. 👉 Want your teen to come to you when something feels off online? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to talk about online safety without lectures, stay calm when they find something worrying, and build the trust that keeps teens safe. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Nate Lewis, founder of The Innocent, a nonprofit working to protect kids from trafficking, exploitation, and abuse in the US. A former law enforcement officer with more than 20 years of global anti-trafficking experience, Nate shares real-world ways to protect your teen without shutting them down or locking everything down. We talk about how grooming works, why emotionally vulnerable teens are at greater risk, and the subtle online red flags parents often miss. Most of all, we talk about building the kind of connection that keeps your teen safe. Because the best safety tool isn't an app. It's trust. If you're worried about your teen's safety online, report online exploitation to the CyberTipline at CyberTipline.org or 1-800-843-5678. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN The #1 predictor of whether a predator can gain access to your teen How grooming works, and the red flags parents often miss Why controlling devices can backfire, and what to do instead How to talk to your teen about safety without triggering defensiveness The role of male mentors and modeling in reducing vulnerability EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 The real risks of online predators 02:55 Nate's story and why he does this work 05:48 How grooming works 08:45 Building trust and communication with teens 11:31 Staying safe on social media 14:35 Which teens are more vulnerable 17:18 Helping teens resist manipulation 20:09 The parent's role in prevention 23:04 Modeling healthy relationships 25:55 Talking about consent 28:54 Supporting teens after trauma 31:56 Creating a community response 34:44 Why education and awareness matter CONNECT WITH NATE LEWIS AND THE INNOCENT Website: TheInnocent.org Instagram: @theinnocent.usa TikTok: @theinnocent.usa CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Constantly clashing with your teen? Here's the good news: conflict isn't the problem. It's how we handle it. 👉 Want disagreements that build your teen up instead of blowing up? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to stay calm in the heat of an argument, solve problems together, and raise a teen who can disagree respectfully. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Bob Bordone, a negotiation and conflict resolution expert who taught at Harvard Law School and author of Conflict Resilience. Bob shares how the same strategies used to resolve high-stakes disputes can turn power struggles and blowups into productive conversations that build trust and teach teens lifelong skills. Avoiding conflict might feel easier in the moment, but it weakens your connection over time. Bob explains how to use everyday disagreements to teach problem-solving, perspective-taking, and resilience. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why avoiding conflict with your teen may hurt more than help How naming emotions, known as "affective labeling," calms heated arguments How to stop power struggles and spark better problem-solving Why teens who know how to argue well are more resilient and confident EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why conflict can be good for parents and teens 05:48 Why we avoid conflict 11:35 Turning conflict into collaboration 15:41 Communication strategies that work 20:37 Technology and boundaries 28:03 Building trust with your teen 35:37 Becoming conflict resilient RESOURCES MENTIONED Conflict Resilience by Bob Bordone Matthew Lieberman's research on affective labeling (UCLA) Dr. Judson Brewer on the "Bigger Better Offer" Family idea: read Conflict Resilience together as a family book club As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. CONNECT WITH BOB BORDONE Website: BobBordone.com Instagram: @bobbybordone X: @bobbordone Facebook: Bob Bordone LinkedIn: Robert Bordone YouTube: Bob Bordone CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Is college right for your teen? If your teen seems unmotivated, disconnected from school, or uninterested in college, you're not alone, and it doesn't mean they're lazy or doomed. They may just be tired of chasing someone else's version of success. 👉 Want to motivate your teen without grades, guilt, or fear? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to support their teen's path without power struggles, ease the pressure, and stay close while their teen figures out their future. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Hannah Maruyama, founder of Degree Free, who helps families explore real-world career paths beyond the traditional college route. We talk about why college isn't the right fit for every teen, what employers value now, and how to help your teen build a future that fits them, without unnecessary debt, pressure, or burnout. Most teens only know a handful of jobs, the ones they can see. Hannah shares how to open their eyes to what's out there, and how to test a path before spending tens of thousands of dollars on it. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why pushing college as the only option backfires for many teens 5 paths that don't require a degree: getting a job, an apprenticeship or on-the-job training, a license or certification, building or buying a business, and learning a skill The 4 factors to weigh when choosing a path: income, schedule, location, and work environment A simple way to test whether a degree is truly required: apply for real jobs in the field first How to motivate your teen without grades, guilt, or fear EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Rethinking success beyond college 01:28 Hannah's path from college to career freedom 04:15 The pressure to go to college 05:48 How college became the default 10:10 Student loans and their impact 12:50 Who really benefits from college? 15:39 Job requirements: degrees vs. skills 21:19 How the job market is shifting away from degrees 26:10 Preparing teens for an uncertain job market 32:44 The future of professional credentials 34:24 Rethinking education and career paths 36:36 Planning a career strategically 39:04 Why your teen's individual needs matter 42:25 Helping your teen choose a path 49:36 Empowering parents and teens 52:13 Alternative paths to success RESOURCES MENTIONED Degree Free: custom career roadmaps for teens and parents 5 Pathways to Great Work (video) CONNECT WITH HANNAH MARUYAMA Website: DegreeFree.com Instagram: @degreefree YouTube: @DegreeFree TikTok: @degreefree CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Found out your teen is smoking or vaping weed, or worried they might be? Before you react, here's something most parents don't know: peer pressure usually isn't the main reason. 👉 Want your teen to talk to you honestly about weed? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to have hard conversations without lectures, stay calm when they find something worrying, and build the trust that keeps teens safer. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Jessica Willoughby and Dr. Stacey Hust from Washington State University's Media Adolescent Cannabis (MAC) Lab. Drawing on their research, they explain how marketing, social media, and misleading packaging, not just friends, shape how teens think about cannabis. If you've ever felt unsure how to talk to your teen about weed, you're not alone. This episode gives you the insight and language to have honest conversations without losing the connection. If you're worried about your teen's substance use, the SAMHSA National Helpline is free, confidential, and open 24/7 at 1-800-662-4357. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why peer pressure isn't the main reason teens use weed today How marketing, packaging, and what teens think "everyone" is doing shape their choices What THC gummies, vapes, and "natural" branding do to how teens see weed How cannabis affects the developing teen brain Harm reduction strategies that help when prevention isn't enough EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why teens are using cannabis 03:06 How cannabis affects the teen brain 07:30 How to talk to your teen about weed 12:15 Harm reduction strategies for parents 19:53 How marketing drives teen cannabis use 25:17 The problem with edibles 30:29 Tough calls for parents 32:28 Starting the conversation early RESOURCES MENTIONED WSU Media Adolescent Cannabis (MAC) Lab SAMHSA National Helpline NIDA: Cannabis CDC: Cannabis and Teens Teens, Sex and Media Effects by Stacey Hust, Jessica Fitts Willoughby, and Rebecca Ortiz CONNECT WITH DR. STACEY HUST LinkedIn: Stacey Hust Bluesky: @staceyhust.bsky.social CONNECT WITH DR. JESSICA WILLOUGHBY LinkedIn: Jessica Fitts Willoughby Bluesky: @jwilloughby.bsky.social CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Do you end most days feeling like you're not doing enough? Mom guilt doesn't disappear when kids become teens. For many of us, it gets louder. 👉 Tired of carrying the guilt alone? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, you'll find a judgment-free community of parents who get it, steady support from me, and a calmer way to parent from your own values. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with writer and professor Nancy Reddy, author of The Good Mother Myth, to talk about the crushing weight of unrealistic parenting expectations. We explore how outdated ideas about being a "good mom" fuel guilt and stress, the difference between helpful guilt and harmful shame, and how to let go of perfectionism as your teen grows more independent. Nancy also shares why asking for help, and letting your teen see you do it, is one of the best lessons you can teach. If you're tired of feeling like you're not enough, this episode is both a sigh of relief and a gentle wake-up call. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How outdated "good mom" myths create guilt for modern parents The difference between guilt, which can spark change, and shame, which keeps you stuck The truth about your role in your teen's happiness How to use a quick values check when guilt creeps in Why building a "friend family" and asking for help makes you a better parent EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 The pressure to be a perfect mom 03:12 Shifting into parenting teens 06:05 Understanding mom guilt 09:01 The myth of the perfect mother 12:03 Guilt vs. accountability 14:48 Letting go of guilt and trusting your teen 18:11 Sharing the load with co-parents and community 21:22 Where mom guilt starts 24:38 Building your "friend family" 26:10 When guilt helps, and when it doesn't 30:09 Why asking for help matters 33:11 Modeling vulnerability for your kids 38:34 Using your values to quiet guilt RESOURCES MENTIONED The Good Mother Myth by Nancy Reddy Write More, Be Less Careful, Nancy's newsletter Work Like a Mother by Lara Bazelon Unfit Parent by Jessica Slice Erica Boothby's research on "the liking gap" Margaret Mead's anthropological research As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. CONNECT WITH NANCY REDDY Website: NancyReddy.com Instagram: @nancy.o.reddy Newsletter: Write More, Be Less Careful CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Are you stuck in constant battles with your teen, no matter how many consequences you hand out? You're not alone. 👉 Tired of battles that consequences don't fix? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to set limits without yelling, stay calm when their teen pushes back, and follow through without power struggles. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with psychologist and TEDx speaker Dr. Paul Sunseri, author of Gentle Parenting Reimagined. With more than 40 years of experience, Dr. Sunseri shares how to stay calm, set firm boundaries, and change the dynamic with a strong-willed or defiant teen, without yelling or giving in. Teen defiance is often about the relationship, not just the behavior. When we shift from trying to fix the kid to changing how we respond, things start to move. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN What to do when consequences no longer work with your teen How to set boundaries without yelling or power struggles The difference between gentle parenting and permissive parenting How to tie privileges, like screen time, to daily responsibilities and follow through Why staying the course through resistance builds resilience in your teen EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Understanding defiance in teens 05:13 How parent and teen behavior affect each other 10:05 Common mistakes parents make 18:10 Handling big emotions 28:03 Managing household responsibilities 30:36 The autonomy dilemma 32:26 How to talk so teens listen 34:20 Flexibility and boundaries 36:12 Motivation and homework 39:00 Why teens resist homework 42:31 Balancing privileges and responsibilities 45:41 Negotiating homework and screen time 48:56 Setting homework expectations 51:17 Building better habits 54:36 Setting realistic parenting goals 57:38 Why limits and expectations matter 01:01:29 Building resilience through challenges 01:05:33 Parenting across generations RESOURCES MENTIONED Gentle Parenting: When to Lean Out Instead of Leaning In (Psychology Today) "Consequences Don't Work With My Kid" (Psychology Today) Gentle Parenting Deserves Another Chance (Today's Parent) CONNECT WITH DR. PAUL SUNSERI Website: myIFFT.org Instagram: @dr_paul_challengingkids YouTube: Dr. Paul Sunseri CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

When your teen falls in love for the first time, or goes through their first heartbreak, it can be emotional for everyone. You want to protect them and guide them, and maybe even stop them from getting hurt. But if we're not careful, our good intentions can push them away. 👉 Want your teen to come to you about dating instead of hiding it? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn what to say when they're worried about a relationship, how to support their teen through heartbreak, and how to keep the conversation open. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with journalist, professor, and mom Lisa A. Phillips, author of First Love: Guiding Teens Through Relationships and Heartbreak. Lisa shares how to talk to your teen about dating, heartbreak, and red-flag relationships without causing shutdown or secrecy. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why teens hide their relationships, and how to keep the conversation open How to support your teen through their first heartbreak without minimizing their pain What to say when you're worried about who your teen is dating Why asking what "dating" means to your teen matters, since it might just mean texting How sharing your own relationship experiences can help your teen make better choices EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Teen relationships today 02:57 Parents' biggest fears about teen dating 06:03 Why validating your teen's feelings matters 09:09 Setting boundaries when your teen wants to date 11:55 When a relationship takes over 14:50 Building self-worth beyond romance 17:56 What to do when you don't like who they're dating 24:22 Having hard conversations with your teen 27:33 How parents influence teen relationships 30:19 Handling conflict in teen relationships 33:19 Helping your teen through a breakup 36:59 Reflecting and growing after heartbreak 40:19 How first loves shape future relationships RESOURCES MENTIONED First Love: Guiding Teens Through Relationships and Heartbreak by Lisa A. Phillips CONNECT WITH LISA A. PHILLIPS Website: LisaAmyPhillips.com Instagram: @lisaamyphillips18 Facebook: Lisa A. Phillips LinkedIn: Lisa A. Phillips CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

If setting boundaries with your teen feels like trying to nail Jell-O to a wall, you're not alone. And if you've ever asked yourself, "Am I being too strict? Too lenient?" this episode is your answer. 👉 Not sure if you're too strict or too lenient? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn which rules to hold firm on, which to let go of, and how to keep the relationship strong while doing it. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with social scientist Matilda Gosling, author of Teenagers: The Evidence Base, to talk about what the research says about setting boundaries that work. Matilda brings both the data and the empathy, helping parents understand where to draw the line, when to back off, and how to protect their teen while preparing them for the real world. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why boundaries help teens feel safe, not smothered How to focus on the rules that matter, like health, safety, and well-being, and let go of the small battles Why explaining the "why" works better than dictating Why respecting your teen's privacy builds openness, and snooping leads to secrets How to set your own boundaries as a parent without feeling guilty EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Understanding boundaries with teens 02:59 Why independence matters 05:48 Boundaries vs. rules 09:04 Negotiating boundaries with your teen 12:02 Common mistakes parents make 15:02 The problem with "safetyism" 18:08 Respecting your teen's privacy 20:56 Which boundaries matter most 23:46 Setting your own boundaries as a parent 27:06 Why modeling matters 29:57 Handling big emotional reactions 32:49 Final thoughts on boundaries RESOURCES MENTIONED Matilda Gosling's Substack: sign up for a free PDF Q&A on teen mental health Teenagers: The Evidence Base by Matilda Gosling The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. CONNECT WITH MATILDA GOSLING Substack: matildagosling.substack.com Instagram: @matilda.gosling X: @matildagosling LinkedIn: Matilda Gosling CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

If you're feeling frustrated, scared, or unsure how to help your teen without pushing them away, this episode offers real hope from parents who've been there. 👉 Want the kind of support these moms found? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, you'll get a community of parents who get it, guidance from me, and a calmer way to reconnect with your teen. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with three moms, Heather, Lara, and Maria, who open up about raising teens through self-harm, emotional regulation struggles, vaping, and academic burnout. They share what life looked like before they found support, and what changed when they stopped trying to control their teens and started focusing on connection. If your teen is struggling with self-harm or thoughts of suicide, reach out to a mental health professional right away. In the US, call or text 988 anytime. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How to reconnect with your teen when communication has broken down Why letting go of control can strengthen your relationship How choosing one parenting value helps you respond with more consistency Why natural consequences and listening without fixing build trust What a supportive parent community can do for your confidence and peace of mind CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Don't like your teen's friends? You're not alone, and it's not as simple as "good" or "bad" peer pressure. Before you forbid a friendship, here's what the research shows: banning friends often backfires. There's a better way to guide your teen, without pushing them away. 👉 Feel like you're losing your teen to their friends? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to stay close without competing, talk about friends without starting a fight, and stay the voice their teen trusts. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with peer influence expert Dr. Brett Laursen, a psychology professor at Florida Atlantic University whose research has tracked teen friendships across multiple countries for decades. He shares how friendships shape teen behavior, often for the better, and how parents can stay influential without being controlling. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN What to do, and not do, when you don't like your teen's friends How to help your teen find better friends by building on their interests Why peer pressure isn't always bad, and can push teens toward good choices How middle school shifts teens from adults to peers, and how parenting needs to shift too How online and real-world friendships affect vulnerable teens differently EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 How peer pressure works for teens 03:01 The good and bad sides of peer influence 05:46 When you're worried about your teen's friends 08:53 How middle school shifts teens toward peers 12:12 Why positive friendships matter 15:10 When to step in with friendships 18:12 Helping teens who struggle to make friends 21:08 Online friendships and influence 23:54 Building trust and communication with teens 27:01 Letting your teen see you as a real person 29:55 Final thoughts on peer influence CONNECT WITH DR. BRETT LAURSEN Website: Laursen Lab at Florida Atlantic University CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

When you lose a child, everything changes. In this episode, Kristen Schindler shares her journey through the loss of her 21-year-old son, Gavin, to suicide, and how she has found her way toward healing, hope, and purpose. If you or someone you love is struggling, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or text HOME to 741741 for the Crisis Text Line. If you've lost someone to suicide, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and The Compassionate Friends offer support for grieving families. 👉 If you're parenting your other kids through grief or worry, you don't have to do it alone. Parenting Teens Academy offers a judgment-free community of parents and steady support from me. Try it free for 7 days Kristen opens up about grieving while still parenting her other children, how undiagnosed physical and mental health issues played a hidden role in her son's struggles, and what has helped her heal. Her story is a reminder that love alone can't shield our kids from life's hardest battles, that loss is never a measure of a parent's love, and that healing, while messy, is possible. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why suicide loss is never a measure of how much a parent loved or tried How undiagnosed physical health issues can affect mental health Why "grief masking" hurts more than it helps, and how to let yourself grieve How to support your other children while you're grieving How new family traditions can honor a loved one and help a family heal EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Kristen's story of loss 03:02 How loss changes a family 06:04 Understanding mental health struggles 08:58 The role of faith in healing 11:59 Why grief and healing are so complex 15:00 Lessons learned from loss 18:14 Why open communication matters 21:04 Finding joy in the middle of grief 23:59 Supporting parents facing loss 32:06 Living with grief 34:55 How addiction affects families 37:04 Finding purpose in pain 39:54 Why community and support matter 43:14 Turning grief into empathy 48:00 Honoring loved ones through kindness 52:39 Lessons for grieving parents RESOURCES MENTIONED 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988 American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: support for loss survivors The Compassionate Friends: support for bereaved parents Free Space for Grace Workbook from Kristen Schindler Gavin's Celebration of Life tribute (on YouTube) CONNECT WITH KRISTEN SCHINDLER Website: KristenLeeSchindler.com Instagram: @all.the.things.kls Facebook: Kristen Schindler LinkedIn: Kristen Schindler YouTube: @kristenschindler9786e CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Ever feel like your kids are growing up in totally different households, even though they share the same last name and dinner table? Your oldest follows all the rules, your middle child avoids conflict like it's a full-time job, and your youngest is total chaos with a side of charm. 👉 Tired of refereeing? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to stay out of the middle without ignoring the fights, handle "that's not fair!" with confidence, and build a calmer connection with each child. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Kelly Jameson, a therapist, speaker, and expert on birth order psychology and sibling dynamics. We talk about what's behind your kids' clashing personalities, what to do when sibling fights erupt, and what fairness looks like when every child is different. If you've ever second-guessed how you parent each child, you're not imagining things, and this episode will help. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How birth order shapes your teen's personality and behavior Why sibling rivalry is often a fight for your attention, not bad behavior How to handle sibling fights without picking sides Why fair parenting means meeting each child where they are, not treating them the same Why older siblings shouldn't be made to parent younger ones How rituals and one-on-one time ease tension and build sibling bonds EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 How birth order shapes your kids 06:11 Sibling rivalry and the fight for attention 08:47 What fair parenting means 12:38 When to step into sibling fights 18:05 Supporting siblings through hard times 20:39 How sibling relationships change in the teen years 24:49 Handling sibling conflict 29:36 Birth order and personality 32:35 Parenting your oldest, middle, and youngest 39:45 Key takeaways for parents CONNECT WITH DR. KELLY JAMESON Website: DrKellyJameson.com Instagram: @drkellyjameson CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Is your teen addicted to their phone? Tired of fighting over screen time? This episode is for you. 👉 Tired of fighting over screens? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to set screen limits without the daily battles, stay calm through the meltdowns, and help their teen find life beyond the phone. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with digital wellness expert Nicole Rawson, founder of Screen Time Clinic, to talk about one of today's biggest parenting challenges: teen screen addiction. Nicole shares why traditional limits often don't work, how to spot the warning signs early, and what a real screen reset looks like. Hint: it's not just unplugging the Wi-Fi. If you're ready to break the cycle, reconnect with your teen, and bring peace back to your home, don't miss this conversation. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How heavy screen use affects your teen's brain and behavior Why some teens are more sensitive to screens than others The signs that screen use has become addiction, including withdrawal Why Nicole recommends a full screen break over moderation for addicted teens How to do a screen reset with your teen instead of against them, with structure and better ways to fill the time EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why parents worry about screen time 03:04 How screen time affects teens 05:53 Why some teens are more sensitive to screens 08:54 How a digital detox works 12:00 Handling your teen's resistance 15:02 Signs of screen addiction 18:12 Healthy ways teens can cope 26:54 How screens affect the whole family 31:10 When screen use becomes addiction 36:49 Building healthy structure for teens 41:54 The parent's role in a screen reset RESOURCES MENTIONED Reset Your Child's Brain by Dr. Victoria Dunckley Screen Time Clinic Free Digital Detox Newsletter and Guide As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. CONNECT WITH NICOLE RAWSON Website: ScreenTimeClinic.com Instagram: @screentimeclinic CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Is your teen gaming for hours, melting down when you say "time's up," and turning every limit into a fight? You're not alone. 👉 Tired of gaming meltdowns and screen time standoffs? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to set gaming limits without the battles, stay calm through the meltdowns, and help their teen build a life beyond the screen. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Cam Adair, founder of Game Quitters. As a teen, Cam played video games up to 16 hours a day. Now he helps families around the world find a healthier balance. He shares how to tell when gaming has crossed the line, how to talk with your teen about it, and practical ways to set limits together instead of fighting over them. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How to tell the difference between healthy gaming and gaming disorder, as defined by the World Health Organization Why your teen's school, friendships, and family life matter more than hours played How to talk about gaming without a power struggle, and why it helps to talk away from the screen Why learning about your teen's games helps you set realistic limits How giving your teen time to decompress after gaming can prevent meltdowns EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Understanding gaming addiction 03:01 The spectrum of gaming behavior 06:00 Healthy vs. problematic gaming 08:58 Finding balance with gaming 11:59 How to talk to your teen about gaming 15:05 Handling power struggles 18:08 Building family values around gaming 21:09 Setting gaming limits together 24:09 Setting up healthy gaming habits 26:45 Moving from gaming to other activities 30:00 Handling meltdowns over gaming limits 33:03 Encouraging interests beyond gaming 36:00 Modeling healthy tech use 38:51 Resources and final thoughts RESOURCES MENTIONED Game Quitters: support for parents and teens dealing with gaming issues Cam Adair's TEDx Talk CONNECT WITH CAM ADAIR Instagram: @GameQuitters YouTube: Game Quitters X: @GameQuitters Facebook: Game Quitters LinkedIn: Cam Adair CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Think GPA and test scores are the golden ticket to a top college? At the most competitive schools, nearly every applicant has strong grades. What sets a student apart is their story. 👉 Want to support your teen through college season without becoming the hovering parent? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to guide instead of take over, ease the pressure, and stay close through one of the most stressful years. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with college admissions coach Dyllen Nellis, founder of NextGen Admit, who was accepted to every school she applied to, including Stanford. Dyllen explains why authentic storytelling beats a perfect resume, how to help your teen find the core values behind their story, and how to support them without writing it for them. Admissions officers can spot a forced story fast. The essays that stand out aren't the most impressive. They're the most honest. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why grades and test scores alone won't make your teen stand out at a top school How to help your teen find their story and the core values behind it Why every college essay needs a theme, and how to find it How passion projects help teens stand out, and why it's fine to start small How to support your teen without hovering or taking over What to do when your teen isn't motivated, or doesn't want a top school at all EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why grades aren't enough 02:51 How to help your teen find their story 05:58 When teens don't know what they're passionate about 08:58 What if your teen only loves gaming or TikTok? 13:05 Helping without doing it for them 13:47 How to help your teen stand out 16:06 Why it's fine to start small 17:57 How involved should parents be? 20:41 How to support a driven teen 22:12 College essay mistakes parents make 26:15 When your teen isn't motivated 29:20 Your teen doesn't need a top school to succeed 31:41 What Dyllen's parents did right 34:47 How to find Dyllen and her free masterclass RESOURCES MENTIONED Free Masterclass: The Top School Admissions Formula NextGen Admit Girls Who Code CONNECT WITH DYLLEN NELLIS Website: NextGenAdmit.com Instagram: @nextgenadmit TikTok: @nextgenadmit YouTube: Dyllen Nellis LinkedIn: Dyllen Nellis CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Is your teen struggling in school, but you keep hitting roadblocks trying to get them support? The IEP process can feel overwhelming, and for Black and minority families, there are often extra barriers. 👉 Tired of fighting the school alone? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, you'll get support from me and other parents who've been there, learn what to say when you hit roadblocks, and help your teen learn to speak up for themselves. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Maria Davis-Pierre, a licensed mental health counselor, autism advocate, and founder of Autism in Black. As a mom who has been through the IEP process more times than I can count, I know how hard it is. Maria shares her own family's journey through the special education system, the hidden biases that keep many Black and minority children from getting the right support, and practical ways to advocate with confidence. We also talk about one of the most important parts of the process for teens: helping them take part in their own IEP, so they learn to advocate for themselves. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN The signs your teen may need learning support, starting with sudden changes in behavior Your rights under IDEA, and why knowing them gives you leverage Why Black and minority students are often labeled behavior problems instead of getting support How to involve your teen in their IEP so they learn to advocate for themselves Discreet accommodations that help without putting your teen in the spotlight How to use your teen's interests to make learning click EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why the IEP process feels so overwhelming 00:57 Maria's story and how Autism in Black began 02:49 The school biases parents may not see 05:16 Why minority parents have to advocate differently 06:49 The first step when you think your teen needs help 09:04 Know your rights under IDEA 11:31 Signs your teen may have a learning difficulty 14:39 Overcoming the stigma of getting an IEP 16:22 When your teen resists accommodations 17:23 Accommodations that keep teens out of the spotlight 18:46 Why your teen should be in their IEP meetings 20:14 Why support at school needs to be normalized 23:52 Using your teen's interests to help them learn 27:16 Building the right accommodations into the IEP 28:48 Give yourself and your teen grace RESOURCES MENTIONED Autism in Black Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) CONNECT WITH MARIA DAVIS-PIERRE Website: AutismInBlack.org Instagram: @autisminblack CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Does motivating your teen to do anything productive feel like a daily struggle? What if your teen isn't unmotivated at all, just motivated by different things than you are? 👉 Want to motivate your teen without nagging? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to hold high standards with high support, talk so teens listen, and repair fast when things go sideways. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Dr. David Yeager, a psychology professor at the University of Texas at Austin and author of 10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People. A former middle school teacher, Dr. Yeager has spent his career researching what to say, and what not to say, to motivate young people. He explains why the teen brain isn't "broken," why teens crave status and respect, and how the mentor mindset, high standards paired with high support, helps teens take ownership instead of just complying. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why the teen brain isn't incompetent, and what it's wired to care about Why nagging backfires, based on what happens in the teen brain The mentor mindset: how to hold high standards while giving high support How small changes in your words, like "Have you thought about..." instead of "You should," boost motivation How to connect what you ask to what your teen values How "do-overs" repair communication when things go wrong EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why motivating teens feels so hard 00:46 Dr. Yeager's path from teacher to researcher 02:02 Old motivation advice that doesn't work 03:41 Is this generation really different? 04:51 Why teens crave status and respect 07:42 The teen brain isn't broken 11:28 How teens learn to regulate emotions 14:18 Teens are motivated, just not by what we want 17:56 What "respect" means to teens vs. parents 20:12 Why nagging doesn't work 22:45 The mentor mindset: high standards, high support 25:48 Mentoring vs. micromanaging 29:08 Assuming the best about your teen 30:21 How to motivate your teen to do homework 32:37 Three takeaways: tone, values, and do-overs 36:25 Dr. Yeager's book and research RESOURCES MENTIONED 10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People by Dr. David Yeager CONNECT WITH DR. DAVID YEAGER Website: DavidYeager.com X: @DavidYeager CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Is your teen overwhelmed by the news, or do conversations about current events turn into arguments at your house? In a world full of bias, hot takes, and nonstop headlines, it's hard for any of us to separate fact from opinion. 👉 Want to keep talking with your teen, even when you disagree? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to listen without lecturing, stay calm when conversations get heated, and keep the door open on hard topics. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Carl Azuz, the longtime anchor of CNN 10 and creator of The World from A to Z, a nonpartisan news show for students. Carl shares how to help teens separate fact from opinion, spot bias, and form their own views, plus how to handle it when your teen's opinions are the opposite of yours. We also talk about teens who feel anxious or scared by the news, and why showing them the people working on solutions can ease that fear. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How to help your teen separate fact from opinion and spot bias Why multiple credible sources matter, and a simple way to compare news outlets How to talk with your teen when you disagree about politics How to help a teen who feels anxious or scared by the news Why looking for the helpers, and the solutions, eases news anxiety Why you have more influence on your teen than you might think EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Meet Carl Azuz, former CNN 10 anchor 02:49 How to cover the news without taking sides 05:03 How to teach teens to think for themselves 09:00 How to spot bias in the news 13:30 Why trust in the media is so low 15:09 When your teen disagrees with your politics 18:57 Modeling respectful disagreement 21:11 Helping teens with news anxiety 24:55 Turning worry into action 25:52 Comparing how different outlets cover the news 27:42 Why teens need good news too 30:14 Building perspective and gratitude 32:42 Where to watch The World from A to Z RESOURCES MENTIONED The World from A to Z CONNECT WITH CARL AZUZ Website: The World from A to Z YouTube: @theworldatoz X: @CarlAzuzCNN CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Your teen gets great grades, works hard, and looks like they have it all together. So why do they feel like they're never good enough? Many high-achieving teens are quietly battling self-doubt, perfectionism, and burnout. 👉 Want to support your high achiever without adding pressure? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to encourage without pushing, let their teen rest without guilt, and help them believe they're enough as they are. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Jason Phillips, LCSW, a licensed therapist who specializes in high achievers, burnout, and imposter syndrome. Jason shares why praise can backfire with perfectionist teens, why rest matters as much as achievement, and what to say when your teen keeps putting themselves down. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why high-achieving teens often feel like they're never good enough Why constant praise can backfire, and why making room for failure helps Why rest matters as much as achievement, and how packed schedules lead to burnout Jason's LOVE approach for when your teen puts themselves down Why asking your teen for advice builds real confidence Why your own boundaries and identity matter for your teen EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Self-doubt in high-achieving teens 05:09 Why failure helps teens grow 10:38 Balancing achievement, rest, and mental health 15:06 Building confidence and self-worth 20:11 How parents' pressure affects teens 25:34 When parent involvement goes too far 30:20 Modeling healthy habits for your teen 35:39 Helping teens see the good in themselves RESOURCES MENTIONED Free Steps to Confidence guide Peace and Prosperity Podcast CONNECT WITH JASON PHILLIPS Website: JasonLPhillips.com Instagram: @JPhillipsMSW Podcast: Peace and Prosperity CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Did your teen just come out, and you're not sure how to feel? Whether you're surprised, scared, grieving the future you pictured, or simply unsure what to say, you're not alone, and those feelings don't make you a bad parent. 👉 Want to be the safe place your teen needs? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, you'll find a judgment-free community, room for your own questions and feelings, and guidance to stay close to your teen through every stage. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Heather Hester, founder of Chrysalis Mama, host of the podcast Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen, and mom of two LGBTQ+ kids. Raised in a conservative Christian home, Heather shares what happened the night her son came out at 16, how she worked through her own fears and grief, and how to support your teen without unintentionally causing harm. Your feelings are real and valid. The key is working through them with friends, a counselor, or other parents, not with your teen. That way, home stays the safe place your teen needs while you find your footing. If your teen is struggling or in crisis, The Trevor Project offers free, confidential support 24/7 for LGBTQ+ young people. Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How to process your own feelings, and why to do it with friends or professionals, not your teen How to grieve the expectations you had without putting them on your teen Why your teen is often already sure of who they are when they come out The #1 question never to ask your LGBTQ+ teen, and what to ask instead Whether social media is "influencing" your teen, or helping them find community How to handle pronoun or name mistakes without making them a big deal EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Raising an LGBTQ+ teen 02:59 Heather's story of acceptance 05:58 What happens when your teen comes out 09:05 Why unconditional love matters most 12:02 Common parent worries and misconceptions 15:03 Is social media influencing my teen's identity? 17:51 Making home a safe space 21:03 Building resilience and acceptance 22:54 Why you need to do your own learning 25:04 Seeing your whole child, not just their identity 28:50 Grieving the expectations you had 30:32 Understanding fluid identities 33:14 Letting go of social norms 36:01 Letting your teen be authentic 39:12 Letting go of control 42:17 Helping your teen build resilience RESOURCES MENTIONED Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen podcast PFLAG The Trevor Project GLAAD CONNECT WITH HEATHER HESTER Website: ChrysalisMama.com Instagram: @chrysalismama TikTok: @chrysalismama Podcast: Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

In this powerful episode, Dr. Cam and Jamie Edelbrock explore the challenges of parenting teens, from managing anxiety and depression to overcoming parental guilt. Jamie shares her personal journey of advocating for her child, building trust, and embracing the power of connection over control. Discover practical strategies for balancing guidance with independence, prioritizing your own well-being, and creating a safe space for your teen to be their authentic self. This is the essential conversation every parent of a teenager needs to hear!   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE How to navigate your teen’s mental health struggles – Tips on addressing anxiety, depression, and the importance of support systems. The importance of building trust and communication – How to foster an open and trusting relationship with your teen. How to balance control and independence – Why letting go and empowering your teen is crucial for their emotional growth. The significance of self-care for parents – How focusing on your own well-being helps you better support your teen. Creating a safe space for your teen to be their authentic self – The power of authenticity in building a healthier relationship with your child.   5 KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR PARENTS OF TEENS Mental health challenges are not anyone's fault – Recognize that mental health struggles affect teens across all backgrounds, and it's essential not to blame yourself or your child. Parenting is about balance – Sometimes saying "yes" more often helps create a foundation of trust, making the necessary “no’s” more respected. Self-care is non-negotiable for parents – Taking care of your own mental health equips you to better support your teen. Empower your teen with autonomy – Give your teen the space to make decisions and take ownership of their actions, fostering independence. Worrying less about the future helps you enjoy the present – Instead of constantly stressing about your teen’s future, focus on building a positive, supportive relationship in the present moment.   ENJOYING THE SHOW? Don’t keep it to yourself! Share your favorite episode and leave a rating and review to help other parents find the support they need. Your feedback helps me create even more episodes filled with practical tips for you and your family!    RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline If you're in crisis or need support, call or text 988 for confidential help. Available 24/7. Psychology Today Therapy Directory: www.psychologytoday.com/ Search for licensed mental health professionals, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists near you. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): www.nami.org/ NAMI provides a range of resources for mental health services and local support groups. Jamie's Books: Tangled Up: A heartfelt exploration of mental health struggles and the path to healing, designed to inspire families to stay connected during difficult times. Be the Sparkle: A guide for parents, offering practical strategies to help children feel empowered and spark their own resilience. The Adventure of Little Selfie: A children’s book that encourages self-love and mindfulness in young readers.   EPISODE CHAPTERS:  00:00 Introduction to Mental Health Advocacy for Parents 02:58 Personal Experiences with Teen Anxiety and Depression 05:59 Navigating Parental Guilt and Finding Support in Parenting 09:04 Building Trust and Effective Communication with Teens 11:51 Why Letting Go Is Crucial for Parenting Teenagers 15:00 Finding Joy and Fulfillment in Parenting Teens 18:02 Balancing Teen Freedom with Parental Responsibility 21:04 The Impact of Worry on Parent-Teen Relationships 24:00 Encouraging Authenticity and Self-Expression in Your Child 26:49 Trusting the Parenting Process and Letting Go of Perfection 30:49 Building Strong, Supportive Relationships with Your Teen 36:44 The Importance of Parental Self-Care for Mental Health 42:41 Empowering Your Teen Through Autonomy and Independence 48:56 The Power of Connection Over Control in Parenting Teens 55:57 Embracing Imperfection in Parenting Teenagers   CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Jamie Edelbrock Website: www.jamieedelbrock.com Instagram: @tangledupbook Twitter: @TangledUpBook   CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST: Dr. Cam Caswell Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell TikTok: @the.teen.translator YouTube: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Facebook: @DrCamCaswell   FULL TRANSCRIPT   Dr. Cam (00:02.259): Welcome back, parents. Today, I’m excited to speak with an amazing author, mental health advocate, and a dear friend of mine, Jamie Edelbrock. Jamie was my very first podcast guest back in 2019, pre-pandemic. We were both stepping into new chapters of our lives, feeling scared but ready to take the leap. Since then, Jamie, you’ve become a powerhouse advocate for children's mental health. You’ve published three award-winning children's books: Tangled Up, Be the Sparkle, and You and Me, The Adventure of Little Selfie. And on top of that, you’ve been raising your three teen daughters. So, let’s get started. What have you been up to? It’s been forever. Jamie Edelbrock (00:43.342): It’s been a ride. We lived overseas in Indonesia for several years. My kids grew up there, and that’s affected their mental health in ways I’ve learned so much from. I’ve become a strong advocate for mental health, focusing on anxiety, depression, LGBTQ issues, and autism. One of my kids was diagnosed with autism and ADHD, and now I’m working to become an RBT, doing one-on-one work with kids and families in ABA therapy. It’s been an adventure. Dr. Cam (01:50.053): The one thing I love about you, Jamie, is that whenever you face a challenge, you don’t just ask, "How do I survive this?" You think, "How can I become an advocate for this?" You embrace it, learn from it, and then help others. That’s so inspiring. Jamie Edelbrock (02:04.65): Yes. Dr. Cam (02:18.843): It’s amazing. You keep getting new challenges, and you handle them with such grace. How has your advocacy evolved over time? Jamie Edelbrock (02:31.725): Something I wanted to talk about today is a story I haven’t shared much. It’s about my daughter and her struggles with anxiety, depression, and suicide. She gave me permission to talk about it. She went through a very tough time in Indonesia, and as parents, we thought, "Why would they be depressed? Why would they be anxious?" But I’ve learned that anxiety and depression don’t discriminate. It doesn’t matter where you come from or what kind of life you lead—it can affect anyone. Dr. Cam (03:12.809): It’s so true. Jamie Edelbrock (03:37.718): We ended up leaving Jakarta early to get her the help she needed because the right mental health resources weren’t available there. I didn’t get to see my oldest graduate high school, and there were a lot of sacrifices. But the most important thing was getting her the help she needed. Dr. Cam (03:51.806): I’m glad you were able to get her the support she needed. Jamie Edelbrock (04:07.102): When we returned to the States, my daughter’s depression deepened. She ended up in the hospital, and she had to stay away from us for a while to get the help she needed. There’s nothing that prepares you for hearing your child say, "I want to die," or having them say, "She has to stay here and you can’t come get her." That experience was incredibly difficult, but it’s something every parent should know about—how to cope with that as a family. Dr. Cam (04:45.343): That’s so hard to imagine. Jamie Edelbrock (05:01.482): And it’s something I want to talk about because, as we’ve seen, anxiety and depression don’t discriminate. There’s no way to predict it. No matter how great your child’s life is, it can still happen. We’ve also dealt with suicide loss. My oldest lost a friend to suicide in 2020, and she ended up saving her best friend’s life from suicide in 2024. These experiences, though tragic, have deeply impacted us, but they’ve also shown me how crucial mental health advocacy is. Nothing prepares you for the weight of it when it’s your own child. Dr. Cam (05:44.549)  You spend your life advocating for mental health, focused on your children's mental health, yet you're not able to escape it. Parents feel guilty, shameful, like they're failing. But you're evidence that no matter what you do, We can't always avoid it. So what did you go through processing it as a mom? Jamie Edelbrock (06:22.614)  Automatically I thought, I'm doing something wrong. I know all the tips, tools, tricks. She has a good life. We have this set up for her to succeed. I'm doing something wrong. Then I started going back, mom guilt. Maybe I shouldn't have yelled, or done this. That's not the case. I think the first thing besides getting her immediate professional help was getting myself help and professional help and realizing that it's not my fault. I've learned that through therapy. It can be environmental, but it's usually brain chemicals. It runs in our family. While thinking, "what did I do wrong?" I talked to my aunt and learned it runs deep. That was an important key. It's not my fault. Getting her help says you're doing something right. We halted our world, got her what she needed, and got the help I needed. Then I started researching, knowing it's literally her brain chemicals. It's literally how her body and brain are working and something isn't right there. So realizing it's not our fault. We made changes in our lifestyle to help her and us. Dr. Cam (08:42.815)  My heart goes out to you. Parents start parenting from fear. They want to prevent their child from going through something, or they don't want anything to happen on their watch. They become hyper-vigilant, constantly asking, "are you okay?" Kids s

In this episode, Dr. Cam is joined by parenting coaches Kyle and Sarah Wester to explore the challenges of co-parenting and the conflicts that arise from differing parenting styles. They dive into the importance of communication, understanding, and personal accountability, offering real-world strategies for resolving conflicts and strengthening family dynamics. The Westers share personal experiences on how external voices can facilitate change and how intentional conversations can lead to a more connected and harmonious parenting approach.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE The hidden reason parenting conflicts escalate—and how to stop it Why your past shapes your parenting style (without you realizing it) The single most powerful shift that improves co-parenting communication How to stop blaming each other and start working as a team The surprising way external perspectives can transform your parenting approach   5 KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR PARENTS OF TEENS Parenting conflicts often stem from unconscious beliefs and past experiences Open and honest communication is crucial to resolving disagreements Setting shared parenting goals creates a more unified approach Kids often feel responsible for their parents’ conflicts—without realizing it Taking personal accountability leads to positive change in family dynamics     🎧❤️ ENJOYING THE SHOW? Help other parents find the support they need! 🚀 Share your favorite episode, leave a rating and review, and let me know what topics you’d love to hear next. Your feedback fuels more practical, insightful episodes just for you! 🙌 🔔 Hit Follow so you never miss a solution-packed episode!   RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE FREE WORKBOOK: Parenting Together: artofraisinghumans.com/together    EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Navigating Parenting Conflicts 04:37 Understanding Parenting Styles and Backgrounds 10:44 The Importance of Openness in Communication 16:02 The Role of External Voices in Parenting 18:43 Setting Goals for Parenting 23:20 Taking Accountability in Parenting 24:50 The Role of Encouragement in Parenting 27:00 Understanding Parental Roles and Expectations 29:40 Modeling Behavior: The Impact on Children 31:12 Navigating Conflicts and Differences in Parenting 33:41 The Importance of Open Communication 35:20 Taking Responsibility for Parenting Styles 36:38 Empowering Parents to Change 39:20 Overcoming Blame in Parenting 41:25 The Power of Personal Accountability 43:28 Embracing Change and Growth in Parenting   CONNECT WITH THE GUESTS: The Westers Website: Artofraisinghumans.com Facebook: @artofraisinghumans Instagram: @artofraisinghumans YouTube: @artofraisinghumans   CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST: Dr. Cam Caswell Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell YouTube: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Facebook: @DrCamCaswell TikTok: @the.teen.translator   FULL TRANSCRIPT Dr. Cam (00:01) Hey, welcome back, parents. I'm looking forward to today's conversation because we're tackling a common challenge—getting on the same page as your spouse or co-parent. I talk to so many couples who have completely different approaches to discipline and communication, which, as you can imagine, creates resentment, frustration, and conflict—not just between the parents, but for their kids too. Today, I'm excited to introduce my guests, Kyle and Sarah Wester. They are licensed professional counselors, parenting coaches, and the founders of Art of Raising Humans, a podcast dedicated to parenting. They also have three preteens and teens, so they don’t just teach it—they live it. Welcome, Kyle and Sarah! Kyle and Sarah Wester (00:52) Thank you so much for having us! Dr. Cam (00:59) We love your dynamic. Tell us a little about how you got started with your podcast and The Art of Raising Humans. Kyle and Sarah Wester (01:07) Well, it really started with Sarah. She has an incredible way of helping kids and parents, and I was the one working with families daily in private practice here in Tulsa, Oklahoma. When I’d hit a wall with a parent, I’d come home, ask Sarah for advice, and she’d offer these brilliant insights. I’d take her suggestions back to my clients, and they’d say, "That was amazing! How did you come up with that?" Eventually, I started getting invited to speak at churches, schools, and events. I wanted Sarah to be part of it, but every time we tried speaking together, it was tricky—we kept stepping on each other’s words. That’s when I had the idea to start a podcast. We decided to record in our master closet, thinking, "Why not? Let's figure this out." Sarah Wester (02:03) It was a challenge at first because Kyle is so much more extroverted than I am, but we both have years of experience working with families in different ways. Our goal was to share our knowledge and support families in building stronger, more connected relationships. We also noticed that parenting conflicts were damaging relationships between couples. Parents were approaching situations differently, which makes sense because they’re different people. But instead of seeing these differences as opportunities to grow, they became sources of tension. We even struggled with this in our own parenting—questioning each other’s choices and feeling frustrated. Dr. Cam (03:08) Wait, you don’t have it all figured out perfectly? Kyle and Sarah Wester (03:24) Not at all! And it’s tough for kids too. No child wants their parents fighting over them. But so often, kids in therapy feel like they’re the problem because their parents are constantly arguing about how to handle them. Dr. Cam (04:13) I see that all the time—kids feeling responsible for their parents' conflicts. Opposites may attract, but when parents have opposite approaches to parenting, it doesn’t go well for anyone. I often feel like I’m doing marriage counseling rather than parent coaching! Kyle and Sarah Wester (04:19) Exactly. Every parent brings their own personality, upbringing, and automatic parenting habits into the mix—many of which are deeply ingrained from childhood. Often, parents don’t even realize how much of their parenting is on autopilot until conflict arises. This can create confusion for kids. They learn which parent will say yes and which will say no, which can lead to frustration and inconsistency. The household tension builds, and by the time kids are teens, patterns are already set. Teenagers are smart—they learn the "dance." They know how each parent will react and adjust accordingly. Parents often feel manipulated, but really, their kids are just figuring out the system. If they know Mom is more lenient about certain things, they go to her instead of Dad. It’s not manipulation—it’s intelligence. The challenge is that parents don’t always recognize these patterns until they’re deeply ingrained. The key is learning how to work together as a team, rather than feeling like you’re on opposing sides. Dr. Cam (05:45) Absolutely. So what are the most common parenting conflicts you see when it comes to raising teens together? Kyle And Sara Wester (05:59) Man, I wish I could have addressed this 10 years ago, but now we're dealing with it. The dance steps are so established among the couple and the family that it's hard to learn new ones. I don't think it's impossible, but one of the biggest challenges is that their brains have literally been wired to perceive the other person in the marriage or the child in a certain way. It's like those dance steps are just on autopilot. As soon as the conflict starts, it's like the music happens, and we immediately fall into those steps. Dr. Cam (06:30) Yeah, and then complain about it. "They always do this!" What I find is that each parent is determined to convince the other that they're right, rather than figuring out: What do I do that works well? What do you do that works well? And—most importantly—what works best with our teenager? Because that matters more than our parenting styles. We're coming in with different backgrounds and beliefs, fighting over this, fighting with our teens. We assume they're manipulating us because they're smart. But they can't manipulate us if we don't let them, FYI. So what's the first step? What do we do? Like, I'm right. How do I convince him that he needs to change? Kyle And Sara Wester (07:16) The first step is openness. If one of you is completely unbending, you've already hit a wall. Kyle uses this analogy a lot: open hand vs. closed hand. If I come in with a closed fist—believing there's no chance the other person is bringing value, that they're completely wrong, that my teenager is the one who needs to change—that's only going to lead to conflict. You have to come in with an open hand. What are they bringing to the table? What do I need to hear? What do I need to understand? I love this example because Sarah is not a yeller. But I definitely can be. In my home, yelling was completely normal. It was how we communicated. To me, not yelling felt like weakness. If you really care about something, you raise your voice. At first, Sarah was caught off guard by this. She didn’t expect it in our home. But what really helped shift me—this may not happen with everyone, so it’s not a magic wand—was that Sarah approached me with an open hand. She tried to understand that for me, raising my voice wasn’t about being aggressive or mean—it was a sign that I cared. Just like yelling for a sports team, right? Me yelling at the ref means I care about my team. It sounds silly, but that’s how I saw it. Dr. Cam (08:28) Weird. Kyle And Sara Wester (08:51) Yeah! But Sarah was able to say, "Okay, I can see that. I understand that’s how you think. But is there another way you could express that passion without yelling?" That opened my mind. I went from a closed fist to an open hand. I started to realize that my words had power—even when I didn’t raise my voice. In fact, my ki

In this episode, Dr. Cam Caswell and Lindsay Cormack discuss the challenges of engaging teens in political discussions, the decline of civics education, and the importance of fostering critical thinking and open dialogue. Lindsay, author of How to Raise a Citizen, shares her insights on how parents can guide their children through the complexities of political discourse and media literacy. They emphasize the importance of parents modeling engagement, curiosity, and empowering their teens to become informed, responsible citizens in today's fast-paced media environment.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE How to effectively engage your teen in political discussions and build open dialogue. Why civics education has declined and how parents can fill the gap in teaching their teens about politics and civic responsibility. The importance of critical thinking in the digital age and how parents can help their teens navigate information overload. How media algorithms impact teens’ political views and how parents can help their teens see beyond echo chambers. Practical tips for encouraging curiosity and helping teens develop a deeper understanding of political issues.   5 KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR PARENTS OF TEENS Engage in Political Conversations Early: Starting conversations with your teen about politics is essential for fostering critical thinking and helping them understand complex issues. Civics Education is Crucial: Civics education has been declining in schools, but parents have the power to teach their teens about the importance of voting and civic participation. Help Your Teen Navigate Information: Teens are bombarded with information on social media and news. By encouraging critical thinking, you can help them evaluate sources and form informed opinions. Model Political Engagement: It’s essential for parents to model curiosity and engagement in political issues. Your teen will learn by watching how you approach important topics. Practice Listening in Political Discussions: Active listening is a key component of meaningful political conversations. It’s important to not just talk but also to listen and understand your teen’s perspective   🎧❤️ ENJOYING THE SHOW? Don’t keep it to yourself! Share your favorite episode and leave a rating and review to help other parents find the support they need. Your feedback helps me create even more episodes filled with practical tips for you and your family! Thanks so much for your support! 🙏💫 🔔 Remember to hit Follow so you never miss another solution-packed episode! 🙌   RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Lindsay Cormack's book: How to Raise a Citizen How to Raise a Citizen: A Parent’s Guide to Teaching Political Engagement   EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Navigating Political Conversations with Teens 02:29 The Decline of Civics Education in Schools 04:32 The Importance of Open Political Discussions 06:31 Building Critical Thinking Skills in Teens 10:08 The Role of Media Algorithms in Political Views 12:49 Encouraging Curiosity and Open Dialogue with Teens 15:54 Essential Knowledge for Young Citizens 18:14 Fostering Critical Thinking and Listening Skills in Teens 21:21 How Parents Can Empower Teens to Engage in Politics   CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Lindsay Cormack Website: www.howtoraiseacitizen.com Facebook: @lindsey.cormack Instagram: @howtoraiseacitizen LinkedIn: Lindsay Cormack X: @DCInbox   CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST: Dr. Cam Caswell Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell TikTok: @the.teen.translator YouTube: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Facebook: @DrCamCaswell   FULL TRANSCRIPT Dr. Cam (00:01) Have you ever tried talking politics with your teen only for it to spiral into a heated argument or leave you wondering where in the world are they even getting these ideas? It's frustrating when their opinions feel so different from your own and you may worry that they are heading down the wrong path. But no matter how hard you try to tuck reason into them, nothing seems to get through. This sounds familiar, you're not alone, and we are going to talk about that I have Lindsay Cormack, an associate professor of political science with me today. And Lindsay specializes in helping teens think critically and engage thoughtfully with the world around them. She's even written the book on it, How to Raise a Citizen. Lindsay is here to share practical strategies to turn those tricky political conversations into meaningful and even peaceful discussions. Welcome, Lindsay. Lindsey Cormack (00:50) Thank you so much for having me. I'm looking forward to talking with you. Dr. Cam (00:53) Yeah, I'm happy to have you here. So tell us first of all, I love the backstory. What got you interested in talking politics, particularly with our kids? Lindsey Cormack (01:02) Well, I've been a college professor for 10 years and I work at a school that primarily serves engineering students called Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, New Jersey. We do plenty of other things, but that's our general population. And so I have these students who are so bright and they're so good at doing school and they go on to like really great careers. But something that I've found as someone who teaches political science is that they come in really not knowing very much. They don't really understand how the government is set up. They don't know what their own powers are in it. And this is something where at first I thought like, you maybe that's just particular to engineering students. But, you know, after a decade of looking at that and talking with other people and doing research on, you know, how much our 18 year olds actually know, I've come to realize like it is a nationwide problem. We graduate most of our high school students without a rudimentary understanding of the government system that they're in. And so this became a project for me because I don't want college kids to feel not powerful. I don't want them to feel jaded already. I don't want them to feel turned off by a system because I know that say what you will about US democracy. It's one of the best decision-making frameworks that's ever existed in the history of the world. And our children will do better if they understand that system. So that's what got me inspired and involved to do it. I didn't know when I set out that this was going to be a parenting book. I thought this might be a book that was like, here's how some states do it, here's how other states do it. But in the course of researching it, I realized no state is doing it that well. And if we want to change things, we're really going to have to start in another level, and that's going to be in the home. Dr. Cam (02:24) Why do you think that kids aren't as informed now about, or have they ever been informed about how the government works? Lindsey Cormack (02:39) So it's a really hard question. It's not like there was this golden era of time where everyone was all conversant on how government ins and out were. That's not real. But it was the case that we did have more civics instruction time in our schools, and that has been decreasing over my lifetime, your lifetime, my mom's lifetime, and so it's been going down from the 1940s onwards. And so we are at this place now where if you look at test scores of eighth graders on their sort of like civic readiness, they are the exact same now as they were in 1998. And so the people who are in charge of parenting today are, you know, no smarter, no better. But I think a lot of us are all really frustrated and it's like, okay, well, if we haven't made any gains in how we're teaching you, we probably need to do something else because we see these same sort of results time after time where the adults in the room now, we can say we're going to prioritize this in a different way. So it is, it is the lowest that of all the classroom things, it is the one that gets the least amount of curricular time. And part of that trade off is STEM. Part of that is sort of this idea that we're going to be pushing other things into a day. And so it's not like there was a golden era, but we know that it's down versus the past and we were seeing the results in our indicators. Dr. Cam (03:33) Well, I'm wondering too, because the world obviously is very polarized right now when it comes to politics. And I know my daughter was talking about it she was taking a government class and she was so excited about talking. And my daughter is one of these kids that have been watching the news since she was like little. I don't even watch the news as much as she does, but she loves it. So she was so excited to go in and talk about it. And they would not talk about the current election going on right now because it was too politically divisive. And, you know, I think that right there is a signal of are we focusing on the wrong thing? Lindsey Cormack (04:32) Okay, so that is like something I hear all over the country is, and you know, and I kind of have a lot of thoughts on why that is the case, but here's the thing. We only get like four or five elections with our kids until they become voting eligible citizens themselves. And so we really only get like four or five windows of training opportunities. And if we say like, you can't talk about this, we can't learn about this, we can't think about this, then we're really sort of hampering their ability to do this when they're older. And we see this, we see this in sort of the data on like who's registered to vote, who turns out to vote, who sort of knows things. Everyone's playing catch up from the time they're like 20 to 60, and then they have 20 years where they're like in their like, you know, really powerful political place, and it probably shouldn't be like that. But I understand why schools have been hard sites to do this work in. I mean, part of it is to blame with ourselves. When we were doing the research for this book, we interviewed teachers in nea

Does your teen's every mood feel like your job to fix? Or do you find yourself walking on eggshells, worried anything you say will set them off? Helping teens handle big emotions is one of the hardest parts of parenting, especially when we're running on empty ourselves. 👉 Tired of tiptoeing around your teen's moods? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to stay steady through big emotions, validate without giving in, and stop carrying every feeling for their teen. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Jenny Woo, a Harvard-trained educator, emotional intelligence researcher, and founder of Mind Brain Emotion. Dr. Woo explains why today's young people are in an "emotional recession," why there's no such thing as a bad emotion, and why validating your teen's feelings builds resilience instead of weakness. Her biggest message: doing less has more impact. When we stop rushing to fix and let teens work through some discomfort, they learn they can handle hard things. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why "emotions are data," and how naming feelings precisely helps Why validating your teen's feelings isn't coddling, and what dismissing them does How to model calm when you're stressed and exhausted Why your teen unloads on you, and how to stop carrying their feelings for them How letting teens face small failures builds resilience and empathy How "phubbing," or phone snubbing, affects your connection EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why teens need emotional intelligence 01:15 Dr. Woo's path into emotional intelligence 03:24 What emotional intelligence is 06:17 The emotional recession in today's teens 08:47 Why teens are struggling more now 12:10 Phubbing: how our phones affect our teens 14:43 Getting comfortable with discomfort 18:25 Modeling calm when you're stressed 21:56 Walking on eggshells: why teens find parents annoying 25:28 Letting your teen be upset 26:46 Why you're your teen's emotional dumpster 27:43 Letting go of the need to fix 29:56 Why doing less is doing more 31:46 How teens build empathy 35:15 Is validating feelings coddling? 40:20 How resentment builds, and how validation helps 42:38 One big takeaway for parents RESOURCES MENTIONED Mind Brain Emotion: free tools and resources 52 Essential Conversations card deck by Dr. Jenny Woo 52 Essential Coping Skills card deck by Dr. Jenny Woo CONNECT WITH DR. JENNY WOO Website: MindBrainEmotion.com Instagram: @mindbrainparenting Facebook: @mindbrainparenting YouTube: @mindbrainemotion X: @mindbrainparent CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Is your teen full of self-doubt, constantly comparing themselves to others, or brushing off every compliment you give them? Low self-esteem can show up in so many ways, and it's hard to watch. 👉 Want your teen to believe in themselves? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to encourage without nagging, stay kind when they're frustrated, and become the steady voice their teen hears in their own head. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Kristi Simons, a former teacher turned teen life coach and host of the Confident Teen Podcast. We talk about what's wearing down teens' confidence today, why the way we talk to our teens becomes the way they talk to themselves, and why resilience matters even more than confidence. The voice your teen hears in their head is often the voice they hear at home. When most of what they hear is correction and "you should," they start to believe they're never enough. Kindness and belief, repeated again and again, can become their new inner voice. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why your words become your teen's inner voice How to build confidence without creating a big ego Why letting teens feel hard emotions builds confidence What to do when your compliments don't land Why resilience matters more than confidence How reminding teens of what they've already overcome builds belief in themselves EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Building teen confidence 01:02 Kristi's path from teacher to teen life coach 03:30 What's wearing down teens' confidence 05:06 Building confidence without a big ego 09:34 How criticism becomes your teen's inner voice 14:02 Why pushing down emotions hurts confidence 18:43 Reminding teens what they've already overcome 21:11 When your compliments don't land 24:07 Why resilience matters more than confidence 26:51 Why kindness builds self-worth 28:23 Repair, and being kind to yourself 31:42 You're not failing as a parent 33:11 A simple tool for frustrating moments RESOURCES MENTIONED Teen Audit with Kristi Simons Confident Teen Podcast The Empowerment Dynamic CONNECT WITH KRISTI SIMONS Website: KristiSimonsCoaching.com Instagram: @confidentteenteacher Podcast: Confident Teen Podcast CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Does every morning, homework session, and reminder still depend on you? Raising a teen with ADHD, autism, or another neurodivergent brain can feel like you're carrying it all. What if the way forward isn't more pushing, but helping your teen take charge? 👉 Want a teen who can handle more on their own? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to collaborate instead of control, build their teen's ownership, and step back without dropping the ball. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Elaine Taylor-Klaus, a master certified coach, co-founder of ImpactParents, and mom of three neurodivergent kids, who was diagnosed with ADHD herself in her 40s. We talk about why ADHD diagnoses are rising, why Elaine sees the ADHD brain as a strength, how to think about medication, and how a coach approach helps teens take ownership of their own lives. Her guiding idea: want things for your teen more than you want things from them. When teens help solve their own problems, they start owning the solutions. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How to help your teen with ADHD take ownership and become more independent Why Elaine sees the ADHD brain as a strength, not just a deficit Why ADHD diagnoses are rising, and what's changed in how we understand it How to think about medication as a tool, not a crutch How collaborative problem-solving can end morning battles Why meeting your teen where they are works better than the world's expectations EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Supporting neurodivergent teens 01:29 Elaine's story as a mom of complex kids 04:19 How views of ADHD and autism have changed 07:17 Why ADHD diagnoses are rising 10:10 Is it ADHD, or is the world too distracting? 12:02 ADHD as a strength 12:57 Rethinking ADHD medication 15:46 Specialists in a generalist's world 18:51 Why we're all a little neurodiverse 20:34 Helping teens not feel broken at school 21:30 The coach approach to parenting 26:24 Want things for them, not from them 27:57 The weather report trick for mornings 29:08 Share the agenda until it's theirs 30:06 One key takeaway RESOURCES MENTIONED ImpactParents: coaching, classes, and free resources for parents of complex kids Parenting with Impact podcast CONNECT WITH ELAINE TAYLOR-KLAUS Website: ImpactParents.com Instagram: @ImpactParents Facebook: @ImpactParents X: @ElaineTKlaus Podcast: Parenting with Impact CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Is your daughter coming home hurt, left out, or caught in friendship drama? It's one of the hardest things to watch, and every instinct tells us to jump in and fix it. 👉 Want to help your daughter through friendship drama without taking over? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn what to say when their teen comes home hurt, how to support without rescuing, and how to stay the safe place she comes back to. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Fiona Ghiglione, an assistant professor, research psychologist, and founder of Mothering Girls. We talk about why girl friendships get so hard in middle school, how to tell normal conflict from toxic behavior, and what to do, step by step, when your daughter comes home upset. Dr. Fiona's advice for parents: don't join the storm. When we stay calm and listen without taking sides, our daughters learn to handle friendship struggles with confidence, and keep coming to us. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why friendships get so hard in middle school, and what's driving more meanness between girls The "seasons" of friendships, and how to tell normal conflict from toxic behavior What to do, step by step, when your daughter comes home upset Quick comebacks and exit strategies for mean behavior Why widening her circle of friends protects her self-esteem What to do if your daughter is the one being mean EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why girl friendships are so hard 01:02 How Mothering Girls began 03:50 Why fear makes the teen years harder 05:05 Why friendships get harder in middle school 06:56 Where meanness between girls comes from 07:54 The seasons of friendships 10:19 Why bullying comes from a need to belong 11:26 What to do when friends turn on your daughter 14:51 Helping your daughter not blame herself 17:07 Should you try to make your daughter more likable? 18:14 Focusing on connection, not popularity 20:16 Step by step: when your daughter comes home upset 22:12 Why you shouldn't take sides 24:25 What if your daughter is the mean one? 26:45 Helping girls calm big emotions 27:39 Don't join the storm RESOURCES MENTIONED Free download: 10 Mindful Practices for Preteens Dr. Fiona's friendship journal for girls €20 off your first mentoring session: email [email protected] CONNECT WITH DR. FIONA GHIGLIONE Website: MotheringGirls.com Instagram: @motheringgirls LinkedIn: Dr. Fiona Ghiglione CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

From the time they're little, girls get messages that their looks matter most, that they should be nice, not angry, and that taking up space is too much. Those small messages add up, and they can quietly chip away at a girl's confidence. 👉 Want to raise a daughter who knows her worth? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn how to talk about body image, clothes, and confidence without shame, and how to raise kids who speak up for themselves. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with clinical psychologist Dr. Jo-Ann Finkelstein, author of Sexism and Sensibility: Raising Empowered, Resilient Girls in the Modern World. We talk about what to say when your daughter says she's ugly, how to handle clothing choices without shame or control, why girls need room to be angry, and how to raise sons who recognize gender bias too. Her message for parents: it's not our daughters who need fixing. It's the culture. And when we talk about it openly at home, our girls are far less likely to blame themselves. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How everyday messages about girls shape their confidence What to say when your daughter says she's ugly How to talk about clothing choices without shame or control Why girls need room to express anger and strong opinions How to teach your daughter to speak up, ask for what she wants, and take up space How to raise sons who recognize and challenge gender bias EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 How gender bias affects girls 06:05 Clothing, crop tops, and raising girls in a biased world 14:10 Helping girls see their value beyond looks 19:07 Building confidence and self-advocacy 22:11 Letting girls express anger 25:00 Teaching girls to take up space 28:25 Spotting everyday sexism 32:49 When speaking up gets pushback 37:11 Raising sons who get it 42:24 Key takeaways for parents RESOURCES MENTIONED Sexism and Sensibility: Raising Empowered, Resilient Girls in the Modern World by Dr. Jo-Ann Finkelstein The Feminist Parent, Dr. Finkelstein's Substack newsletter CONNECT WITH DR. JO-ANN FINKELSTEIN Website: JoAnnFinkelstein.com Newsletter: The Feminist Parent Instagram: @joannfinkelstein.phd LinkedIn: Jo-Ann Finkelstein CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Has your teen ever exploded over something so small it left you wondering, "Is my child a monster?" If big reactions, yelling, or hurtful words have become part of life at your house, you're not alone, and you're not a bad parent. 👉 Tired of blowups that leave everyone hurting? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to stay calm in the moment, repair afterward without lectures, and rebuild the connection that makes blowups less frequent. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Leslie Cohen-Rubury, a licensed clinical social worker with 39 years of experience, an intensively trained DBT therapist, and host of the podcast Is My Child a Monster? Leslie shares DBT skills parents can use before, during, and after a blowup, including how to validate, how to keep from getting pulled in, and how to repair once everyone is calm. Her answer to every parent who asks if their child is a monster: no. Your child may simply be misunderstood. If your teen is self-harming or in crisis, reach out to a mental health professional right away. In the US, call or text 988 anytime. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why your teen's big reactions aren't as irrational as they seem Emotion mind vs. wise mind, and why no one can problem-solve in the heat of the moment How validation de-escalates, and what to do when it backfires How to respond when your teen yells or swears at you How to repair after a blowup without blame or lectures Why connection between conflicts prevents future blowups EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Is my child a monster? 02:08 What "monster" behavior looks like 04:06 Where intense emotions come from 08:50 Why yelling slows things down 09:16 Observe and describe: a DBT skill for parents 11:57 Emotion mind vs. wise mind 14:00 In the moment: whose problem is this? 17:15 How validation de-escalates 20:01 When your teen yells or swears at you 22:37 Why new skills take time 24:32 What to do after a blowup 26:50 Repair: starting with yourself 30:25 Fixing the relationship, not the teen 36:09 Planting seeds and connecting in other ways 39:42 One key takeaway RESOURCES MENTIONED Is My Child a Monster? podcast with Leslie Cohen-Rubury Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills: emotion mind, wise mind, validation, and opposite action CONNECT WITH LESLIE COHEN-RUBURY Instagram: @lesliecohenrubury Facebook: @lesliecohenrubury YouTube: @lesliecohenrubury TikTok: @lesliecohenrubury Podcast: Is My Child a Monster? CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Does your teen get in your face, follow you around yelling, or take their anger out on the walls? If you've started walking on eggshells to avoid setting them off, you're not alone, and there's a way to bring the temperature down. 👉 Feel like you're walking on eggshells around your teen's anger? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to stay calm when things heat up, step out of power struggles, and catch blowups before they turn destructive. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Hesha Abrams, an attorney and mediator who has resolved high-stakes disputes for companies like Google, Amazon, and Pepsi, and author of Holding the Calm: The Secret to Resolving Conflict and Defusing Tension. Hesha says parenting is the hardest job she's ever had, and she shares simple, practical techniques that work with teens just as well as with executives. Her big idea: almost every conflict is about power. You don't calm an angry teen by out-yelling them. You calm things down by holding your own calm, giving away power in small ways, and catching tension early. If you or anyone in your home is in physical danger, step away and call 911. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why almost every conflict with your teen is about power, and how to give some away without giving in Simple phrases that calm things down, like "Can we have a do-over?" and "Excuse me?" How to catch tension early, before it turns into yelling or destruction What to do when your teen gets in your face or follows you to keep yelling How to redirect a teen who kicks walls or breaks things Why validation works like WD-40 in every hard conversation EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why parenting is the hardest job 03:35 Why every conflict is about power 06:04 Give yourself grace 06:39 How to hold the calm when things go badly 09:29 The do-over 10:13 Giving away power in small ways 13:20 Staying calm isn't giving in 19:48 Is staying calm a sign of weakness? 22:54 Why arguing is a sign of respect 26:40 Not taking it personally 28:44 When your teen gets in your face 33:30 Focusing on what you can change 37:52 When your teen kicks walls or breaks things 42:17 Give yourself grace and keep trying RESOURCES MENTIONED Holding the Calm: The Secret to Resolving Conflict and Defusing Tension by Hesha Abrams CONNECT WITH HESHA ABRAMS Website: HoldingTheCalm.com Instagram: @holdingthecalmbook Facebook: @HeshaAbramsHoldingTheCalm CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Parenting teens can be emotionally and mentally exhausting. Between their moods, school stress, and trying to say the right thing, many of us end up running on empty, and wondering how we got here. 👉 Running on empty? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, you'll find support from me and parents who get it, simple tools to stop carrying everything alone, and a calmer way to show up for your teen. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with leadership coach Heather Chauvin, author of Dying to Be a Good Mother, mom of three boys, and a former social worker who became a mother at 18. After years of overachieving and burnout, a stage four cancer diagnosis forced her to rethink everything. Heather shares how taking care of yourself makes you a better parent, and a simple exercise to use when you don't know where to start. Her message: taking care of yourself isn't selfish. It's what gives you the capacity to stay calm, curious, and present when your teen needs you most. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why overwhelm is a symptom, not a way of life Why perfectionism is a coping strategy, not a personality trait Heather's energetic time management: a simple brain dump and "wouldn't it be nice if" exercise How to shift from trying to control your teen to being curious Why respecting yourself teaches your teen to respect you How to remember who you are beyond being "Mom" EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why parenting teens feels so exhausting 01:08 Heather's story 06:11 Who you are beyond being a parent 10:39 Busy as a badge of honor, and Heather's wake-up call 17:03 Shifting the focus back to yourself 17:28 From control to curiosity 19:23 Where to start when you're completely overwhelmed 20:53 Energetic time management: the brain dump 25:28 Modeling self-care for your teen 26:00 Parenting as personal growth 30:17 Self-respect and connection RESOURCES MENTIONED Dying to Be a Good Mother by Heather Chauvin Emotionally Uncomfortable podcast with Heather Chauvin CONNECT WITH HEATHER CHAUVIN Website: HeatherChauvin.com Instagram: @HeatherChauvin_ YouTube: Heather Chauvin Podcast: Emotionally Uncomfortable CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Want to support your teen's mental health but don't know where to start? You don't need hours or a big plan. A few minutes a day can make a real difference. 👉 Want simple ways to support your teen's mental health every day? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn what to say when their teen is struggling, how to stay calm through anxious moments, and how to build the kind of connection that protects their teen's well-being. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Mark Fussell, founder of Take Two Minutes, a platform that brings the science of positive psychology into quick daily habits. It started with a dad texting his struggling high schooler a positive message every day at lunch. Mark shares simple tools you can use right away, including grounding, breathing, and gratitude exercises that help teens manage anxiety and bounce back faster from hard days. Calming tools work best when they're practiced before your teen needs them. In the middle of panic, the brain can't learn something new. A few minutes a day builds habits your teen can reach for when it counts. If your teen is struggling or in crisis, reach out to a mental health professional right away. In the US, call or text 988 anytime. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN The 5-4-3-2-1 grounding exercise, and how to make it work How a "gratitude challenge" helps teens who can't think of anything to be grateful for The "three good things" bedtime exercise, and why it has lasting effects How to get a skeptical teen to try breathing exercises Why practicing calming tools ahead of time matters What to consider before taking away your anxious teen's phone EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Supporting your teen's mental health 04:02 Tools for managing emotions and anxiety 08:58 How gratitude rewires the brain 10:57 Calming tools for anxious moments 12:32 The 5-4-3-2-1 grounding exercise 14:42 Getting teens on board with breathing 19:09 Why to practice calming tools ahead of time 20:01 Taking the phone from an anxious teen 22:39 The three good things exercise 26:03 Why our brains focus on the negative 29:25 Positive psychology isn't fake happiness RESOURCES MENTIONED Take Two Minutes: use code DRCAM for 20% off CONNECT WITH MARK FUSSELL Website: Take2Minutes.org Instagram: @take2min Facebook: @take2min YouTube: @take2min CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

The thought of your teen making a life-altering mistake because of alcohol is terrifying. Whether they're not driving yet or already have their license, the conversations you have now can make a real difference. 👉 Want your teen to call you instead of hiding it? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn how to talk about drinking without lectures, stay calm when they find out something worrying, and build the trust that keeps teens safer. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Stacey D. Stewart, CEO of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), to talk about underage drinking and impaired driving, and the role parents play in keeping teens safe. Stacey shares why parents are still the most influential adults in a teen's life, how to start these conversations early, and why making a safe-ride plan ahead of time works better than hoping your teen will think clearly in the moment. If you're worried about your teen's alcohol or substance use, the SAMHSA National Helpline is free, confidential, and open 24/7 at 1-800-662-4357. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How to start the conversation about drinking as early as elementary or middle school Why both strict and hands-off approaches tend to backfire, and what works better What to do when you find out your teen has been drinking How to make a safe-ride plan together before your teen goes out Why mixing alcohol and cannabis is a growing risk, and why driving high isn't safe How your own drinking habits shape your teen's choices EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why preventing teen drinking matters 03:39 The gap between what teens know and what they do 06:34 Starting the conversation early 11:31 When you find out your teen has been drinking 18:39 Making a safe-ride plan together 26:27 Modeling healthy habits and addressing mental health RESOURCES MENTIONED MADD's Power of Parents handbook SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357 CONNECT WITH MADD Website: MADD.org Instagram: @MADDNational TikTok: @MADDNational X: @MADDOnline Facebook: MADD YouTube: MADD CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Does every conversation with your strong-willed teen feel like a tug-of-war? If rewards, punishments, and lectures haven't worked, you're not alone, and there's a different way in. 👉 Want a strong-willed teen who works with you instead of against you? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to trade power struggles for cooperation, stay calm when their teen pushes back, and bring out what their teen does best. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Kirk Martin, founder of Celebrate Calm and host of the Calm Parenting Podcast. Kirk's own strong-willed son "came out of the womb with boxing gloves on," and everything changed when Kirk stopped trying to change his son and started changing himself. Since then, he's shown nearly a million parents how to stop the yelling, defiance, and power struggles, with practical scripts delivered with humor and compassion. You can't put fire in a teen's belly. What works is connection, affirming what they already do well, and finding a mission and a mentor that bring out their gifts. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why connection comes before motivation with strong-willed teens Why changing your approach works better than trying to change your teen How bonding over their interests, and letting them teach you, builds trust Why affirming the small things they do well matters more than you think How to give your teen chances to use their natural gifts outside the home Why mentors outside the family can reach your teen when you can't EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Motivating strong-willed teenagers 01:22 Kirk's story: how changing himself changed his son 03:12 Why changing yourself helps your teen 06:25 How to build a strong connection with your teen 09:44 Why your teen needs to be heard 12:55 Playing the long game 17:21 Why you can't put fire in their belly 20:37 Releasing your teen to be who they are 21:13 Affirming what your teen does well 25:37 Helping your teen shine outside the home 30:51 Mentors who can reach your teen 37:15 How social media affects teens RESOURCES MENTIONED Calm Parenting Podcast with Kirk Martin CONNECT WITH KIRK MARTIN Website: CelebrateCalm.com Instagram: @calmparentingpodcast Facebook: @CelebrateCalm Podcast: Calm Parenting Podcast CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Tired of fighting with your tween about homework, grades, and phones? Middle school is a big jump, and many kids who breezed through elementary school suddenly start to struggle. The good news is that more nagging isn't the answer. 👉 Tired of the homework battles? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to step back without checking out, build their teen's ownership, and stop nagging about grades. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with JoAnn Schauf, a former school counselor known as the Parent Whisperer, founder of Your Tween and You, and author of Loving the Alien: How to Parent Your Tween. JoAnn shares how to help your middle schooler build motivation, study habits, and real ownership of their schoolwork, without constant battles. One of her best tips: stop checking the grade portal. Instead, sit down once a week, maybe with a treat, and let your tween open it and walk you through the story behind the grades. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How to make a phone plan with your tween instead of fighting about it Why your tween should set their own grade goals Why grades often drop in middle school, and how to keep your tween from giving up Why to stop checking the grade portal, and what to do instead How to turn mistakes and failed tests into learning How to build on your tween's strengths and learning style EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Getting your tween ready for school 00:58 JoAnn's story as a school counselor 02:15 Why phones cause so many school battles 05:22 How to make a tech plan together 11:58 Letting your tween set their own grade goals 15:14 Why middle school feels so much harder 17:17 How to build motivation without nagging 20:49 Why you should stop checking the grade portal 22:56 Giving your tween ownership 26:10 Why failing in middle school is a gift 28:27 Learning through your tween's strengths 32:50 Why your tone matters 34:07 Three takeaways for parents RESOURCES MENTIONED Loving the Alien: How to Parent Your Tween by JoAnn Schauf CONNECT WITH JOANN SCHAUF Website: YourTweenandYou.com Instagram: @YourTweenandYou YouTube: Your Tween and You Facebook: @YourTweenandYou LinkedIn: JoAnn Schauf CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Parenting an 18-year-old is a whole new game. Your teen wants full independence, and you're not sure they're ready. As a parent, I know how hard it is to loosen your grip while your teen is ready to run. 👉 Want to let go without losing your kid? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to step back with confidence, talk about expectations without a fight, and stay close as their teen becomes an adult. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Joanna Lilley, a therapeutic consultant who works only with young adults. She helps teens and families through big transitions, from gap years to launching into adulthood to getting unstuck when things fall apart. Together, we talk about how to parent an 18-year-old with the right mix of support and freedom. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How to gradually teach the skills your teen needs for adulthood How to create chances for your teen to practice independence How to talk openly about expectations once your teen turns 18 How to let go and trust your teen to figure things out RESOURCES MENTIONED Success Is Subjective Podcast with Joanna Lilley CONNECT WITH JOANNA LILLEY Website: LilleyConsulting.com YouTube: @LilleyConsulting Facebook: @LilleyConsultingLLC Podcast: Success Is Subjective CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

We all want our kids to grow up confident and capable, to make good choices and chase their dreams. But we also worry they'll make big mistakes, or get hurt. So how do you hold on and let go at the same time? 👉 Want to give your teen more freedom without losing your connection? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to let go a little at a time, stay calm when their teen makes choices they wouldn't, and keep the relationship strong for the long haul. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with author, speaker, and creator of the Moms of Bigs community, Esther Joy Goetz. A self-described potato chip-eating, NFL-loving mom of four "grownish and flownish" kids, Esther brings help, humor, and hope to parents trying to give their big kids roots of love and wings of freedom.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How to give your teen room to become their own person Why the long-term relationship matters more than winning today's battle How to connect with your teen with no strings attached How modeling respect helps your teen feel seen, heard, and valued   EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Meet Esther Joy Goetz and Moms of Bigs 05:34 Balancing nurturing and letting go 09:03 The fear of letting go and losing control 13:06 Creating a safe space and setting healthy boundaries 23:12 Being the bad guy and building trust 28:41 Key takeaways and action steps   CONNECT WITH ESTHER JOY GOETZ Instagram: @momsofbigs Facebook: @momsofbigs   CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy   ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Can't get your teen son to shower or wash his face? Is your daughter spending her allowance on serums her skin doesn't need? Teen hygiene can turn the bathroom into a battleground, and the skincare advice online makes it even more confusing. 👉 Tired of nagging about showers and skincare? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to build habits without the battles, talk about awkward topics without shame, and raise a teen who takes ownership of their own care. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Sheilagh Maguiness, a double board-certified pediatric dermatologist, mom of two tween boys, and co-founder of Stryke Club, a personal care brand made for boys. She has served as President of the Society for Pediatric Dermatology, and she breaks teen skincare down into simple, doable steps. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why teens struggle with hygiene, and how to help without nagging The simple 3-step skincare routine every teen boy needs How to keep teen girls' skincare simple and gentle, and which products to skip Which acne treatments help, including pimple patches EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Meet Dr. Sheilagh Maguiness 02:53 Why teens struggle with hygiene 08:21 How skincare differs for boys and girls 14:41 A simple skincare routine for boys 25:21 Why pimple patches help 29:47 Taking the stigma out of skincare for teens DERMATOLOGIST-RECOMMENDED BASICS FOR TEENS Cetaphil Face Wash: gentle, fragrance-free cleanser Neutrogena Fragrance Free Daily Facial Moisturizer: fragrance-free, non-comedogenic Sunscreen: SPF 30 or higher Stryke Club Wipe Out: cleansing wipes Stryke Club skincare for teens GENTLE EXTRAS THAT WON'T HARM SENSITIVE TEEN SKIN CeraVe Hyaluronic Acid Serum Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray: hypochlorous acid spray FOR ACNE Differin Acne Treatment Gel: adapalene gel Neutrogena Rapid Clear Stubborn Acne Spot: benzoyl peroxide spot treatment CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser: gentle hydrating cleanser Mighty Patch: hydrocolloid pimple patches As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. CONNECT WITH DR. SHEILAGH MAGUINESS Instagram: @dr.sheilagh.m TikTok: @drsheilagh CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

How do you help a teen who gives up the moment things get hard? In a world of social media highlight reels, many teens think struggle means something is wrong with them. 👉 Want a teen who keeps going when things get hard? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn what to say after a setback, how to stop rescuing without abandoning, and how to build the kind of confidence that lasts. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with youth motivational speaker and teen coach Jesse LeBeau. His underdog story has inspired more than a million teens through his speaking events, books, and programs. Jesse is also one of the world's top basketball trick artists, which landed him in commercials with Kobe Bryant, a movie with Kevin Durant, and a day of being hand-fed cheeseburgers by Heidi Klum. He shares how to help teens face failure, push through struggle, and believe in themselves. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN What Jesse's underdog story can teach a teen who's struggling How social media shapes the way teens see themselves How to prepare your teen for failure and hard times EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Jesse LeBeau's underdog story 09:06 How social media affects teen confidence 13:46 How to build teen resilience after failure CONNECT WITH JESSE LEBEAU Website: The Attitude Advantage Instagram: @jesselebeau YouTube: Jesse LeBeau CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Want to protect your teen from toxic diet culture and social media pressure? About 1 in 5 kids and teens show signs of disordered eating. A psychologist and eating disorder specialist shares how to help your teen build a healthier relationship with food and their body. If you're worried your teen may have an eating disorder, talk with your pediatrician, or contact the ANAD Helpline at 1-888-375-7767 (US) for support. Project HEAL also offers free clinical assessments. 👉 Want your teen to feel at home in their body? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn how to talk about food and bodies without causing harm, quiet the messages telling their teen they're not enough, and stay close through the hard moments. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Kelli Rugless, a licensed psychologist, certified eating disorder specialist, and Chief Clinical Officer at Project HEAL, a nonprofit working to make eating disorder care available to everyone. She also owns Flourish Psychology, a group practice specializing in eating disorders and body image. If your teen compares themselves to influencers, talks about dieting, or seems unhappy with their body, this conversation helps you push back on diet culture at home. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How diet culture and social media shape your teen's body image How to foster a healthy relationship with food at home Why promoting a positive body image matters How your connection with your teen can protect them RESOURCES MENTIONED ANAD Helpline: 1-888-375-7767 Project HEAL: free clinical assessments CONNECT WITH DR. KELLI RUGLESS Instagram: @dr.kellirugless YouTube: Flourish Psychology LinkedIn: Dr. Kelli Rugless CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Could your teen's youth group be a cult? Many teens find comfort and purpose in faith and community. But some groups cross the line into control, isolation, and shame, and it can happen slowly enough that families don't see it until a teen is deeply involved. 👉 Want to be the person your teen turns to when something feels wrong? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to keep hard conversations open, listen without judgment, and build the kind of trust that protects their teen from people who don't have their best interests at heart. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with Sarah Bruno-Patrey, who grew up in a youth religious program she now describes as a cult. She shares how it pulled her in, how it affected her, and her path to healing. We talk about the red flags of an unhealthy group, and how parents can help protect their teens. This isn't about faith itself. It's about recognizing when any group starts using control, fear, or isolation to hold onto a teen. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How a youth program can cross the line into a cult The red flags of an unhealthy, controlling group Signs your teen may be struggling with religious trauma How to support your teen, whatever your family's beliefs How open conversation and trusted mentors help teens make their own choices CONNECT WITH SARAH BRUNO-PATREY TikTok: @thatsilkymama CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Tired of fighting about screen time, curfews, and every other hot-button issue? What if you could set clear expectations without the yelling and power struggles? 👉 Want boundaries that hold without the battles? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to set limits calmly, follow through without yelling, and earn their teen's cooperation instead of just compliance. Try it free for 7 days In this episode, I sit down with parenting coach Tia Slightham, a teacher, bestselling author, and mom who has worked with kids and families for nearly two decades. Tia shares strategies from her Parenting With Purpose Method to help you set boundaries your teen will respect, and build the kind of connection that makes cooperation easier. Her big idea: set boundaries in advance, involve your teen in the process, and focus on what's driving the behavior instead of reaching for punishment. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN Why setting boundaries in advance, with your teen's input, prevents power struggles How Tia's Behavior Needs Roadmap helps you find the need behind your teen's behavior How to set phone boundaries without a daily fight How showing real interest in your teen's world builds trust Why it's never too late to repair your relationship EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Why parenting is a skill you can learn 03:15 Understanding the root causes of behavior 07:39 Setting boundaries with mutual respect 10:46 The Behavior Needs Roadmap 14:21 Setting boundaries around phones 27:20 Connecting through your teen's interests 31:37 Building trust through small conversations 34:07 Preventing power struggles with trust and boundaries 37:40 It's never too late to make a change CONNECT WITH TIA SLIGHTHAM Website: TiaSlightham.com Instagram: @tiaparentingcoach CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. ⭐ If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show. 🔔 Follow the show so you never miss an episode.

Is your teen's emotional meltdown leaving you feeling overwhelmed and powerless? You're not alone—73% of parents face this challenge. But what if you could learn how to de-escalate these situations and strengthen your bond with your teen? In this episode, I’m joined by Karleen Savage, a former hostage negotiator and conflict resolution expert. Karleen now helps parents like you master the art of diffusing teen meltdowns and creating calm, cooperative interactions. She shares proven strategies to navigate your teen's intense emotions with confidence, build trust, and create a positive environment that helps your teen thrive.   4 KEY TAKEWAYS FOR PARENTS: Learn how to de-escalate conflicts by understanding your teen's perspective and avoiding assumptions. Use open-ended questions and active listening to connect with your teen’s needs and emotions. Build a stronger relationship with your teen by showing empathy, owning up to mistakes, and fostering trust. Discover how parents can handle challenging moments with confidence, creating a respectful and supportive relationship.   ENJOYING THE SHOW? Help others discover this episode by leaving a rating and review! Your feedback means the world to me and allows us to bring even more valuable insights to parents like you. Don’t forget to hit subscribe so you never miss an episode. Thanks so much for your support! 🙏💫    RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE FREE digital download of Karleen’s book, The Confident Teen Blueprint Connect with Karleen: Facebook: @KarleenSavage Instagram: @KarleenSavage LinkedIn: Karleen Savage   Connect with Dr. Cam: Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell TikTok: @the.teen.translator YouTube: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Facebook: @DrCamCaswell   ABOUT THE SHOW The Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Podcast is your essential guide to navigating the complexities of adolescence with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist, the podcast provides practical strategies and expert insights to help you build a stronger relationship with your teen and support their emotional development. Whether you're an experienced parent or just starting your journey with teens, this podcast is packed with valuable information to help you thrive.   #TeenParenting #TeenConflictResolution #ParentingTips #TeenEmotions #ParentingTeenagers #DeescalatingTeenAnger #ParentingExpert #FamilyDynamics #TeenMeltdowns #ConflictManagement

In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, we’re joined by Ali Flynn, the founder of Hang In There Mama. Ali shares invaluable insights on how moms can find peace and joy in their motherhood journey while overcoming feelings of guilt. If you're a mom feeling overwhelmed or guilty, this episode is a must-listen!   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE How to overcome mom guilt and unrealistic expectations Why self-care and self-love are crucial for moms raising teens Practical tips for finding moments of quiet and decompressing as a busy mom How to let go of excessive worrying and trust your teen’s abilities   5 KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR PARENTS OF TEENS Moms often feel alone and not good enough, but remember, you're not alone—many other moms are navigating the same struggles. Guilt in motherhood stems from societal expectations of perfection, but it’s time to let go of comparing yourself to others. Prioritize self-care and self-love to feel fulfilled and be a positive role model for your children. Simple self-care activities, like deep breathing or taking a walk, can help you decompress and recharge. Let go of excessive worrying about your teen’s choices and trust in their ability to grow and learn independently.   🎧❤️ ENJOYING THE SHOW? Don’t keep it to yourself! Share your favorite episode and leave a rating and review to help other parents find the support they need. Your feedback helps me create even more episodes filled with practical tips for you and your family! Thanks so much for your support! 🙏💫 🔔 Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE so you never miss another solution-packed episode! 🙌   RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Hang in There, Mama 6-WEEK GRATITUDE JOURNAL for MOMS RAISING TWEENS, TEENS, and YOUNG ADULTS!   EPISODE CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Finding Peace and Joy in Motherhood 04:34 - Overcoming Mom Guilt and Unrealistic Expectations 08:15 - The Importance of Self-Care and Self-Love 12:26 - Practical Tips for Prioritizing Self-Care 26:29 - Letting Go of Excessive Worrying   CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Ali Flynn Website: Hang in There Mama Instagram: @hang.in.there.mama Facebook: @hangintheremama   CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST: Dr. Cam Caswell Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell TikTok: @the.teen.translator YouTube: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Facebook: @DrCamCaswell   FULL TRANSCRIPT Dr. Cam (00:00): Hey parents, ever feel completely drained like there's nothing left in the tank for you or your kids, but the idea of me time triggers guilt? You're not alone. A whopping 80 % of moms wrestle with this, but what if we could ditch the guilt and find peace and joy in motherhood? That's exactly what we're tackling today. I'm joined by Ali Flynn, the mastermind behind Hang In There Mama. Ali understands the unique challenges of raising teens. We're going to get into real actionable tips to help you ditch the guilt and carve out moments to recharge even with your crazy schedule. Because guess what? A happy, healthy you means a happier, healthier family. Allie, welcome to the show. Ali Flynn (00:41.198): Thank you so much. It's such an honor to be on with you. Dr. Cam (00:44.017): First I want to hear what inspired you to launch Hang in there, Mama. Ali Flynn (00:51.15): Honestly, it really came down to I wanted to share with people all of the encouragement and inspiration that I really wanted to hear myself, that I wasn't hearing all the time. I felt really alone at times in my motherhood journey. I felt really lost. I felt not good enough. I didn't sometimes know what I was doing, but I felt like we're in this perfection mode of being a mom and how do I actually offer that honesty up to people. And I just wanted moms to know that you are not the only one, you are not alone in this. We are all sort of struggling along this journey at times. And you know, you don't have to feel lost within it. Dr. Cam (01:35.665): Yeah, I think it's so important and I love that you're putting out there that support because you're absolutely right. And I think especially when our kids get into the teen years, we feel the most isolated because I think there's this belief that we should have it figured out by now. So we're afraid to ask for help, but raising teens is not raising kids. It's a whole new skill set. And so asking for help, I think realizing other people are struggling with it gives us permission to ask for help. Are you finding that? Ali Flynn (02:10.286): Exactly, exactly. And I feel like you're spot on with that in the sense of a lot of moms when they enter the teen years with their kids, they completely hibernate, they retreat, they stop sharing, they stop talking. Oftentimes, you know, it's that tween years of entering the middle school time where you're not at the elementary school anymore, you're not at the bus stop, you're not at the birthday parties. So you lose some of the engagement unless you have sort of created a sort of a basis of friends and a network that you can rely on. But then if you don't have that, you sort of feel alone, but you also don't feel comfortable sharing everything and being honest. And then you have sort of part two, which is as our teens grow up you want to give them their privacy, right? When they're little and they're not reaching milestones, you can sort of share that information. But now you have teenagers and what are parents going to maybe share with their teen and then it gets throughout the school. And so it just becomes this vicious cycle at times. So sort of knowing that other people are going through it and really believing that allows you to be more transparent and get the support you need. Dr. Cam (03:13.649): Absolutely. It’s a fine line because you do want whatever your team tells you and whatever's going with your team to be confidential between you and your team, but how do you get help that way? So how do you find a safe network of people that you can trust with that information that can give you that insight back that's not going to feel like you're betraying your teenager? Like it is, it's this whole complicated thing. What's interesting when you're describing what moms do, particularly, and we're particularly talking about moms, because I think we burden a lot of the guilt, which I'm still confused why we get more guilt, but I think that's just mom, women in general, like to take on guilt. But it's interesting the way you were describing what moms do is exactly how we describe what our teens are doing, where we're like hibernating and we're hiding, and it's that same sense of just protection. So. Ali Flynn (04:17.74): Exactly. Dr. Cam (04:18.673): Now we're going and saying, hey, you're not alone. That doesn't relieve our guilt and it doesn't make our lives less crazy so that we can take care of ourselves. So let's talk about first the guilt. Where does this guilt come from? Ali Flynn (04:34.926): I truly believe it comes from everything that we are being fed through society. We as moms are being fed that we have to be perfect. We have to have everything aligned. We have to know at all moments, every single day, 365 days a year, what we are doing and know with complete trust that we are doing the right thing. And it's just unrealistic. It's an unrealistic expectation on women, on mothers. It's an unrealistic expectation for our children to think that we're perfect. So I think it becomes this trap of we are fed this through what we read, what we see on TV, what we see in movies. So how do you get out of it? Right. And then you go down that path and that rabbit hole of comparing yourself to other moms, comparing yourself to what you see on social media as you're scrolling. And it just, it's such an unhealthy concept that we have to get out of. And I think the only way to get out of it is by really being open and honest with each other as moms and, you know, letting go of some of that protective barrier and saying like, this is what I'm going through or am I the only one? And see sort of what happens and sort of create that village for yourself of moms who are willing to be transparent. Dr. Cam (06:02.225): I think a lot of parents think that what they're going through is completely unique. And yet I'm sure you hear this too, but in what I do, I hear the same concerns and complaints and worries over and over and over again. And so because they are common struggles that we have at this stage because of the stage and because of just what you said is this view of what that's supposed to look like. And I think, I always talk about we're concerned about the impact of comparison and social media on our kids. And I keep seeing that. I think it has more negative impact on us as parents on our expectations down to our kids. Because I have parents all the time tell me, well, everyone else has a, no, they don't. They do not have it figured out. But then we put down those expectations and expect our kids to be a certain way which then changes how we parent because we don't have the ability to be as compassionate because we're more fearful. Do you see that as well? Ali Flynn (07:04.558): Right. You know, and I see we're comparing ourselves in so many ways, just like our teens are doing, right? So moms are comparing what we look like to how we're behaving, to what vacations are we going on? How are we incorporating fun into our kids' worlds, right? But we're forgetting that this is just a presence. This is not reality. This is what people put out there isn't truth all the time, right? So why are we sucking down that trap that we don't want our kids to go down, right? So it's sort of like we need to get our self together and recognize this so we can model it for our own kids. Dr. Cam (07:39.409): I think the other thing that we juggle is this, you know, this good enough mom, which I think there's this falsehood that that just means we kind of just give up in a way. Like we're just going to, this is

In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, we’re diving into the exciting world of the all-new Digital SAT and how it’s changing the college admissions process. Dr. Shaan Patel, founder of Prep Expert and a Shark Tank success story, joins us to break down everything parents need to know about the new SAT, scholarships, and how standardized tests can still be an advantage—even at test-optional colleges. With over 20 years of experience in SAT prep and helping over 100,000 students succeed, Dr. Patel offers priceless insights to empower both teens and parents on the road to college success.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE Why the Digital SAT is a game-changer and how to prepare for it The importance of standardized tests in 2024 college admissions and scholarships How taking the SAT or ACT boosts college acceptance rates and scholarship opportunities Why motivation is key in test preparation and how to keep your teen on track How to widen your teen’s college options and increase their chances of merit-based financial aid   5 KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR PARENTS OF TEENS The new Digital SAT offers significant changes that students need to understand in order to succeed. Test scores matter—taking the SAT or ACT can increase your teen’s chances of receiving merit-based scholarships and getting into top colleges. Over $7 billion in merit scholarships are available annually, and many require standardized test scores for consideration. The growing importance of SAT and ACT scores at top universities highlights the need for careful test prep. Helping your teen identify their motivation is essential for boosting their test prep success and keeping them focused on their goals.   🎧❤️ ENJOYING THE SHOW? Don’t keep it to yourself! Share your favorite episode and leave a rating and review to help other parents find the support they need. Your feedback helps me create even more episodes filled with practical tips for you and your family! Thanks so much for your support! 🙏💫 🔔 Remember to hit Follow so you never miss another solution-packed episode! 🙌   RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Download the Prep Expert Digital SAT "Mini" Playbook   EPISODE CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to the New Digital SAT and Dr. Shaan Patel 03:38 The Importance of Taking the SAT or ACT 06:12 The Resurgence of Standardized Testing Requirements 09:17 Preparing for the Digital SAT: Tips and Strategies 14:08 Understanding the Adaptive Nature of the Digital SAT 23:02 The Importance of the PSAT and National Merit Scholarships 25:17 The Role of Test-Taking Strategies in SAT and ACT Success 29:00 Motivating Students to Study for Standardized Tests 32:20 Broadening College Applications for Merit-Based Financial Aid   CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Dr. Shaan Patel Website: www.prepexpert.com Facebook: @PrepExpert Instagram: @prep_expert LinkedIn: Prep Expert Twitter: @Prep_Expert YouTube: @PrepExpert   CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST: Dr. Cam Caswell Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell TikTok: @the.teen.translator YouTube: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Facebook: @DrCamCaswell   ABOUT THE SHOW The Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Podcast is your go-to resource for navigating the challenges of raising teenagers. Hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach, this podcast offers practical parenting strategies, expert advice, and real-world insights to help you build a stronger relationship with your teen and support their emotional growth. Whether you’re struggling with teenage behavior or looking to improve communication, each episode provides actionable tips to make parenting teens easier and more rewarding. Perfect for both new and seasoned parents, this podcast helps you build the confidence to handle teen challenges and thrive together. #theteentranslator #drcamcaswell #parentingteenswithdrcam #SATPrep #TeenMotivation

In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, Dr. Cam Caswell is joined by Dr. Ann-Louise Lockhart, a seasoned pediatric psychologist and parent coach specializing in supporting parents of highly sensitive teens. Dr. Lockhart, also a mother of teens herself, brings invaluable insights into the unique challenges faced by sensitive teens—such as emotional regulation, peer relationships, academic pressures, and self-esteem.    WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE How to identify and understand your highly sensitive teen’s unique emotional needs The power of co-regulation: lending your calm to help your teen stay grounded Why building a safe space for emotional expression is key to a strong parent-teen connection Practical strategies to handle meltdowns, test anxiety, and emotional overwhelm in sensitive teens   5 KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR PARENTS OF TEENS Highly sensitive teens are deeply in tune with their surroundings, requiring a heightened level of understanding from parents. Co-regulation is crucial—parents must model calm and self-awareness to help their teens cope with emotions. Creating a safe emotional space for teens allows them to express themselves without fear of judgment. Changing your mindset: See your teen’s sensitivity as a strength, not a weakness. Validate and empathize with your teen’s feelings, joining them in their struggles rather than dismissing them.   🎧❤️ ENJOYING THE SHOW? Don’t keep it to yourself! Share your favorite episode and leave a rating and review to help other parents find the support they need. Your feedback helps me create even more episodes filled with practical tips for you and your family! Thanks so much for your support! 🙏💫 🔔 Remember to hit Follow so you never miss another solution-packed episode! 🙌   RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Dr. Lockhart’s Parenting Your Highly Sensitive Child course – 50% Off Coupon Code: SENSITIVE-CAM (Expires: 6/30/24)   EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 - Introduction to Highly Sensitive Teens 06:01 - Understanding Highly Sensitive Teens 09:23 - Co-Regulation: Lending Calm to Highly Sensitive Teens 13:55 - Building Resilience in Highly Sensitive Teens 20:08 - Regulating Emotions and Problem Solving 24:01 - The Role of Parents in Improving the Relationship with Highly Sensitive Teens 29:13 - Understanding the Challenges and Diagnoses of Highly Sensitive Teens   CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Dr. Ann-Louise Lockhart Website: www.drannlouiselockhart.com Instagram: @drannlouiselockhart   CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST: Dr. Cam Caswell Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell TikTok: @the.teen.translator YouTube: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Facebook: @DrCamCaswell   ABOUT THE SHOW The Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Podcast is your go-to resource for navigating the challenges of raising teenagers. Hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach, this podcast offers practical parenting strategies, expert advice, and real-world insights to help you build a stronger relationship with your teen and support their emotional growth. Whether you’re struggling with teenage behavior or looking to improve communication, each episode provides actionable tips to make parenting teens easier and more rewarding. Perfect for both new and seasoned parents, this podcast helps you build the confidence to handle teen challenges and thrive together. #theteentranslator #drcamcaswell #parentingteenswithdrcam #highlysensitive #parentingstrategies

Raising teens who can handle setbacks, stay confident, and push through challenges isn’t easy. In this episode, Dr. Cam sits down with Chad Metcalf, former Navy SEAL, entrepreneur, and author, to share powerful, real-world strategies for helping teens develop grit, confidence, and resilience. Chad knows what it takes to stay mentally tough—and he’s here to help parents pass those lessons on to their kids. From handling failure the right way to fostering a strong growth mindset, this episode is packed with practical, no-fluff advice that will empower you to raise a teen who can take on life’s toughest challenges.   WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE The #1 mistake parents make when trying to build their teen’s confidence How to help your teen turn failure into fuel for success Why letting kids struggle (the right way) is key to mental toughness How to model resilience—even when you feel like giving up   5 KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR PARENTS OF TEENS Resilience starts with failure. Let your teen struggle, but provide guardrails to help them learn from it. Competence builds confidence. Encourage skill-building activities that help teens discover their strengths. Your reaction to failure matters. Recognize and celebrate effort and persistence, not just results. Model mental toughness. Show your teen how to push through challenges with resilience and determination. Teach smart goal-setting. The urgent-important matrix can help teens manage priorities and stress.   🎧❤️ ENJOYING THE SHOW? Help other parents by sharing your favorite episode and leaving a rating & review! Your feedback helps us bring more expert-backed strategies to families like yours. Thank you for your support! 🙏💫 🔔 Hit SUBSCRIBE so you never miss another solution-packed episode! 🙌   RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE 5x Your Productivity   EPISODE CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction: Building Resilience in Teens 02:55 The Importance of Allowing Kids to Fail and Learn 06:03 Modeling Resilience: The Role of Parents 10:00 Discovering Strengths Through Skill-Based Pursuits 14:24 Supportive Responses to Failure: Building Resilience 23:42 The Failure Hack: Embracing Failure as a Learning Opportunity 28:13 Acton Academy: Encouraging Self-Discovery and Mastery-Based Learning 36:31 The Urgent-Important Matrix: Prioritizing Tasks and Goals   CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Chad Metcalf Instagram: @chad__metcalf Facebook: @chadmetcalf251 LinkedIn: @chadmetcalf251   CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST: Dr. Cam Caswell Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell TikTok: @the.teen.translator YouTube: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Facebook: @DrCamCaswell   ABOUT THE SHOW The Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Podcast is your go-to resource for tackling the real-life struggles of raising teenagers. Hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach, this podcast delivers practical strategies, expert insights, and real-world advice to help you strengthen your relationship with your teen and support their emotional well-being. If you're navigating teen attitudes, anxiety, or confidence struggles, this show gives you the tools to parent with more ease and impact. #ParentingTeens #RaisingResilientKids

Are you feeling helpless as your teen struggles with anxiety, mood swings, and impulsivity? If you’re looking for solutions but don’t know where to start, this episode is for you. Today, we’re joined by Dianne Kosto, founder of SYMMETRY Neuro-Pathway Training and author of From Trauma to Triumph: One Mom’s Mission with Neurofeedback. Dianne will unpack how brain-based strategies like neurofeedback can help teens tackle mental health challenges linked to nervous system dysregulation, including anxiety and impulsivity.   5 KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR PARENTS OF TEENS Neurofeedback as a tool for managing anxiety and impulsivity: Learn how neurofeedback helps teach the brain to produce healthier patterns. The impact of brainwave dysregulation on teen behavior: Understand how imbalances in brainwave activity lead to mood swings, anxiety, and impulsivity. Neurofeedback as a non-invasive and accessible solution: Discover how teens can benefit from this technique, even remotely. Brain-based strategies for holistic mental wellness: Understand the power of holistic methods like neurofeedback to promote long-term mental health. How to foster self-regulation and resilience in your teen: Learn how you can support your teen’s growth and confidence through neurofeedback.   🎧❤️ ENJOYING THE SHOW? Don’t keep it to yourself! Share your favorite episode and leave a rating and review to help other parents find the support they need. Your feedback helps me create even more episodes filled with practical tips for you and your family! Thanks so much for your support! 🙏💫 🔔 Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE so you never miss another solution-packed episode! 🙌   RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE 10% discount on neurofeedback services when you mention Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam   EPISODE CHAPTERS: 00:00 – Intro and Overview 03:15 – Dianne’s Story and the Origins of SYMMETRY Neuro-Pathway Training 10:45 – The Science of Neurofeedback for Anxiety and Impulsivity 18:30 – How Neurofeedback Can Be Done Remotely 24:00 – The Future of Neurofeedback and Mental Health 32:00 – Final Thoughts and Resources   CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Dianne Kosto Website: SYMMETRY Neuro-Pathway Training Instagram: @symmetry_neuro Facebook: @SYMMETRYNeuroPathwayTraining LinkedIn: Dianne Kosto YouTube: SYMMETRY Neuro-Pathway Training Channel   CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST: Dr. Cam Caswell Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell TikTok: @the.teen.translator YouTube: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Facebook: @DrCamCaswell ABOUT THE SHOW The Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Podcast is your go-to resource for navigating the challenges of raising teenagers. Hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach, this podcast offers practical parenting strategies, expert advice, and real-world insights to help you build a stronger relationship with your teen and support their emotional growth. Whether you’re struggling with teenage behavior or looking to improve communication, each episode provides actionable tips to make parenting teens easier and more rewarding. Perfect for both new and seasoned parents, this podcast helps you build the confidence to handle teen challenges and thrive together. #theteentranslator #drcamcaswell #parentingteenswithdrcam #NeurofeedbackForTeens #MentalHealthStrategies

In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, we dive deep into the challenges that working moms face in balancing personal goals with raising teenagers. Dr. Cam is joined by Heidi Schalk, a business strategy coach, author, and speaker who specializes in empowering women to achieve their goals while maintaining family life. Heidi shares her inspiring journey as a single mom, entrepreneur, and podcaster, and she offers powerful insights on creating a team environment within the family, building mutual trust with your teens, and handling the pressures of both parenting and pursuing your dreams. If you're a mom feeling overwhelmed by the demands of raising teens while juggling your own aspirations, you're not alone. With 60% of working moms feeling guilty about time spent with their children, this episode is packed with practical strategies to help you build stronger connections with your teen while also honoring your personal goals.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE How to create family goals and foster a team mentality within your household Simple and fun ways to support your teen's mindset and development The key to building communication and trust with your teen How to balance being a present parent while pursuing your personal dreams   5 KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR PARENTS OF TEENS Creating family goals helps develop a team atmosphere, making everyone in the household feel involved and valued. Supporting your teen’s mindset in simple, fun ways can lead to greater emotional growth and connection. Building trust with your teen starts with communication and vulnerability — they need to know they can trust you to open up. Work-life grace, not balance, is the more realistic approach for managing parenting and personal goals. Asking for help and creating a support system is crucial for both personal and family success.   🎧❤️ ENJOYING THE SHOW? Don't keep it to yourself! Share your favorite episode and leave a rating and review to help other parents find the support they need. Your feedback helps me create even more episodes filled with practical tips for you and your family! Thanks so much for your support! 🙏💫 🔔 Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE so you never miss another solution-packed episode!   RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Podcast: Be She Podcast   CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Heidi Schalk Website: https://www.heidischalk.com Instagram: @heidischalk Facebook: @Heidi Schalk LinkedIn: @Heidi Schalk YouTube: Heidi Schalk   CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST: Dr. Cam Caswell Website: askdrcam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell TikTok: @the.teen.translator YouTube: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Facebook: @DrCamCaswell   ABOUT THE SHOW The Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Podcast is your go-to resource for navigating the challenges of raising teenagers. Hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach, this podcast offers practical parenting strategies, expert advice, and real-world insights to help you build a stronger relationship with your teen and support their emotional growth. Whether you’re struggling with teenage behavior or looking to improve communication, each episode provides actionable tips to make parenting teens easier and more rewarding. Perfect for both new and seasoned parents, this podcast helps you build the confidence to handle teen challenges and thrive together. #theteentranslator #drcamcaswell #parentingteenswithdrcam

Parenting is tough enough without the weight of unhealthy generational patterns. In this episode, we're joined by Cari Fund, an expert in breaking the cycle of toxic parenting. Cari shares powerful insights on how harmful parenting habits can be passed down, often unknowingly, and how to take the steps needed to break free. If you’ve ever felt trapped in negative patterns that affect your relationship with your teen, this episode is for you. Cari’s approach is not just about improving the parent-child relationship—it’s also about personal transformation. Tune in to learn how to create a healthier, happier family dynamic.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE How to identify toxic parenting patterns passed down through generations Key strategies for breaking the cycle of toxic parenting The importance of self-awareness and healing in parenting Why setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care is vital for effective parenting How to communicate with your teen in ways that nurture a healthier relationship   5 KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR PARENTS OF TEENS Toxic parenting patterns can be broken—self-awareness and healing are the first steps. Prioritizing self-care and setting boundaries is essential for preventing burnout and becoming the parent you want to be. Vulnerable, open communication builds stronger connections with your teen. Teach your teen about resilience, self-worth, and the importance of grace. Progress is more important than perfection—embrace the process of healing and growth.   🎧❤️ ENJOYING THE SHOW? If this episode resonated with you, please share it with others who might benefit! Leave a rating and review to help more parents find the support they need. Your feedback helps me create even more episodes filled with practical advice for you and your family. Thanks so much for your support! 🙏💫 🔔 Don't forget to hit Follow so you never miss an episode packed with valuable solutions! 🙌   RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Cari Fund’s FREE Guide on Toxic Parenting Traits - Learn more about toxic parenting and how to begin the journey of healing.   CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Cari Fund: Website: Cari.Fund Instagram: @Cari.Fund   CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST: Dr. Cam Caswell Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell TikTok: @the.teen.translator YouTube: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Facebook: @DrCamCaswell   ABOUT THE SHOW The Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Podcast is your go-to resource for navigating the challenges of raising teenagers. Hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach, this podcast offers practical parenting strategies, expert advice, and real-world insights to help you build a stronger relationship with your teen and support their emotional growth. Whether you’re struggling with teenage behavior or looking to improve communication, each episode provides actionable tips to make parenting teens easier and more rewarding. Perfect for both new and seasoned parents, this podcast helps you build the confidence to handle teen challenges and thrive together.   #theteentranslator #drcamcaswell #parentingteenswithdrcam

Are you struggling to connect with your teen? It might feel like your efforts to build trust and communication are falling short. In this episode, Dr. Cam is joined by Kristen Duke, a trusted mentor who specializes in helping parents navigate the challenges of raising teens. Kristen shares valuable insights into common pitfalls parents face in their relationships with teens and provides practical strategies for building trust, fostering open communication, and strengthening the parent-teen bond.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE How to foster trust with your teen and rebuild a stronger connection Key mistakes to avoid when trying to communicate with your teenager Why focusing on your growth, rather than your teen's behavior, is the key to earning their trust Simple, actionable steps to improve your relationship with your teen today   5 KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR PARENTS OF TEENS Focus on building trust by connecting with your teen on a deeper level. Understand the importance of controlling your reactions to strengthen the parent-teen bond. Recognize your blind spots and how they affect your ability to connect with your teen. Communication strategies that promote openness, vulnerability, and mutual respect. Practical ways to nurture the relationship while still maintaining healthy boundaries.   🎧❤️ ENJOYING THE SHOW? Don’t keep it to yourself! Share your favorite episode and leave a rating and review to help other parents find the support they need. Your feedback helps me create even more episodes filled with practical tips for you and your family! Thanks so much for your support! 🙏💫 🔔 Remember to hit Subscribe so you never miss another solution-packed episode! 🙌   RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE FREE Guide: Connection Playbook with 10 intentional ways to connect with your teen   CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Kristen Duke Website: KristenDuke.com Instagram: @kristendukechats   CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST: Dr. Cam Caswell Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell  Parenting Teens Academy: https://www.skool.com/parenting-teens-academy   ABOUT THE SHOW The Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Podcast is your go-to resource for navigating the challenges of raising teenagers. Hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach, this podcast offers practical parenting strategies, expert advice, and real-world insights to help you build a stronger relationship with your teen and support their emotional growth. Whether you’re struggling with teenage behavior or looking to improve communication, each episode provides actionable tips to make parenting teens easier and more rewarding. Perfect for both new and seasoned parents, this podcast helps you build the confidence to handle teen challenges and thrive together. #theteentranslator #drcamcaswell #parentingteenswithdrcam

In today’s high-pressure world, teens are expected to excel in academics, extracurriculars, and beyond. Parents, driven by love and fear, often take on their children’s stress in an attempt to ensure their success. But what if this well-intentioned involvement is actually doing more harm than good? In this episode, Dr. Cam welcomes bestselling author and renowned speaker Julie Lythcott-Haims to explore the dangers of overparenting and how parents can foster independence and resilience in their teens. Julie, former dean of freshmen at Stanford University, shares insights from her acclaimed book, How to Raise an Adult, and her viral TED Talk with over 7 million views. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE How overparenting hinders teens' independence and problem-solving skills The key differences between supporting and controlling your child Why failure is an essential part of a teen’s growth (and how to let them experience it) Practical steps to shift from overparenting to empowering your teen   5 KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR PARENTS OF TEENS Overparenting stunts development. When parents do too much, teens miss out on learning essential life skills. Fear and societal pressure drive overparenting. Many parents micromanage out of anxiety about their child’s future rather than their immediate needs. Failure is crucial for growth. Allowing teens to struggle helps them build confidence and resilience. Parents must regulate their own fears. Managing personal insecurities helps create a healthier parenting approach. Balance support with autonomy. Providing guidance while letting teens make their own decisions fosters true independence.   🎧❤️ ENJOYING THE SHOW? Don’t keep it to yourself! Share your favorite episode and leave a rating and review to help other parents find the support they need. Your feedback helps me create even more episodes filled with practical tips for you and your family! Thanks so much for your support! 🙏💫   🔔 Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE so you never miss another solution-packed episode! 🙌   RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Julie Lythcott-Haims Ted Talk: How to Successful Raise Kids--With Over-Parenting Julie’s Parent Resource Recommendations   CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Julie Lythcott-Haims Website: julielythcotthaims.com Instagram: @jlythcotthaims Facebook: @jlythcotthaims Twitter: @jlythcotthaims LinkedIn: Julie Lythcott-Haims   CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST: Dr. Cam Caswell Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy: https://www.skool.com/parenting-teens-academy ABOUT THE SHOW The Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Podcast is your go-to resource for navigating the challenges of raising teenagers. Hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach, this podcast offers practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insights to help you build a stronger relationship with your teen and support their emotional growth. Whether you’re struggling with teenage behavior or looking to improve communication, each episode provides actionable tips to make parenting teens easier and more rewarding. Perfect for both new and seasoned parents, this podcast helps you build the confidence to handle teen challenges and thrive together. #theteentranslator #drcamcaswell #parentingteenswithdrcam

In this crucial episode, Dr. Jessica Rabon, a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in pediatric psychology, joins Dr. Cam to discuss an incredibly important topic: spotting teen suicide risk. With suicide being the leading cause of death for youth ages 10-24 in the U.S., this episode will help parents recognize warning signs, have open conversations with their teens, and understand how to provide critical support. If you're a parent worried about your teen's mental health, this episode is a must-listen.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE How to identify warning signs of teen suicide and differentiate them from normal teenage behavior The importance of having a direct and compassionate conversation with your teen about suicide Effective crisis management techniques when your teen is at risk Practical steps to support your suicidal child and where to find the help they need   5 KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR PARENTS OF TEENS Spotting Warning Signs: Learn the behaviors and shifts that signal a potential suicide risk in teens. Understanding Suicidal Ideation: Understand the difference between passive and active suicidal thoughts, and when to seek help. How to Talk About Suicide: Discover the best ways to approach your teen and ask about suicide without judgment. Responding to a Plan: Know what to do when your teen has a suicide plan—stay calm, stay with them, and seek immediate support. Building Trust: Learn how to maintain a trusting relationship, so your teen feels safe reaching out when they’re struggling.   🎧❤️ ENJOYING THE SHOW? Don’t keep it to yourself! Share your favorite episode and leave a rating and review to help other parents find the support they need. Your feedback helps me create even more episodes filled with practical tips for you and your family! Thanks so much for your support! 🙏💫 🔔 Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE so you never miss another solution-packed episode! 🙌   RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Psych Talk Podcast Welcome to Group Therapy Podcast   CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Dr. Jessica Rabon Website: JessicaRabonPhD.com Instagram: @JessicaLeighPhD Facebook: Jessica Leigh PhD YouTube: Jessica Leigh PhD TikTok: @JessicaLeighPhD   CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST: Dr. Cam Caswell Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy: https://www.skool.com/parenting-teens-academy   ABOUT THE SHOW The Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Podcast is your go-to resource for navigating the challenges of raising teenagers. Hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach, this podcast offers practical parenting strategies, expert advice, and real-world insights to help you build a stronger relationship with your teen and support their emotional growth. Whether you’re struggling with teenage behavior or looking to improve communication, each episode provides actionable tips to make parenting teens easier and more rewarding. Perfect for both new and seasoned parents, this podcast helps you build the confidence to handle teen challenges and thrive together. #theteentranslator #drcamcaswell #parentingteenswithdrcam

In today’s episode, we dive deep into Teen OCD with Natasha Daniels, an experienced anxiety and OCD therapist who has been helping families navigate these challenges for over two decades. Natasha is also the creator of AT Parenting Survival and the host of the AT Parenting Survival Podcast. With both her clinical expertise and personal experience raising three kids with OCD, Natasha offers invaluable insights on supporting teens with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. If you're a parent wondering how to spot OCD in your teen, what steps to take, or how to avoid common pitfalls, this episode is a must-listen.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE How to Spot OCD in Your Teen – The common signs and how OCD can look different in adolescents. OCD Myths Busted – Natasha tackles common misconceptions about teen OCD and its impact on their lives. The Worst Things Parents Can Do for Their Teen's OCD – Learn about parental responses that can unintentionally strengthen OCD behaviors. Effective Strategies to Support Teens with OCD – What to do instead, including practical advice for early intervention.   5 KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR PARENTS OF TEENS Recognizing OCD Symptoms in Teens OCD in teens often shows up in subtle ways, like appearing distracted or engaging in repetitive behaviors such as hand-washing or checking things multiple times. Look for signs of intrusive thoughts or anxiety-driven actions that persist despite logical explanations. When typical curiosity or behavior becomes obsessive or interferes with daily functioning, it might be a sign of OCD. How to Approach OCD Without Shaming or Enabling Parents often unknowingly make mistakes like rationalizing OCD behaviors or giving in to compulsions. Instead, avoid shaming or minimizing their struggles. Acknowledge the OCD without reinforcing the compulsions. Approach your teen with empathy, understanding that their actions are driven by anxiety, not willful behavior. The Power of Psychoeducation for Teens One of the best ways to help your teen manage OCD is by educating them about the disorder. Help them understand that their obsessive thoughts are not a reflection of who they are, but a part of a brain glitch that gets stuck. Normalizing their experiences makes them feel less isolated and better equipped to fight back against the disorder. The Importance of ERP Therapy for Teens with OCD Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy is the gold-standard treatment for OCD, and it's essential for teens struggling with this condition. ERP helps your teen confront their fears by gradually exposing them to their anxiety triggers without allowing them to perform their compulsions. Working with an OCD-trained therapist who specializes in ERP is crucial for success. The Role of Parents in Fighting OCD Together As a parent, it's vital to separate your teen from their OCD. Frame it as a battle you're both facing together. Support your teen by creating a plan of action to address OCD behaviors and stick to it, even when it's tough. Show them they are not alone in this struggle and that you’re in it as a team—this can be one of the most powerful tools in overcoming OCD.   🎧❤️ ENJOYING THE SHOW? Don’t keep it to yourself! Share your favorite episode and leave a rating and review to help other parents find the support they need. Your feedback helps me create even more episodes filled with practical tips for you and your family! Thanks so much for your support! 🙏💫 🔔 Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE so you never miss another solution-packed episode! 🙌   RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Free online course for teens on understanding OCD   EPISODE CHAPTERS: [00:00] Introduction to Natasha Daniels [05:00] Understanding Teen OCD [10:00] What to Do and What Not to Do as a Parent [20:00] How ERP Therapy Can Help Teens [30:00] Key Takeaways and Closing Thoughts   CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Natasha Daniels Website: AT Parenting Survival Instagram: @atparentingsurvival YouTube: @Natasha Daniels OCD Therapist   CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST: Dr. Cam Caswell Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy: https://www.skool.com/parenting-teens-academy   ABOUT THE SHOW The Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Podcast is your go-to resource for navigating the challenges of raising teenagers. Hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach, this podcast offers practical parenting strategies, expert advice, and real-world insights to help you build a stronger relationship with your teen and support their emotional growth. Whether you’re struggling with teenage behavior or looking to improve communication, each episode provides actionable tips to make parenting teens easier and more rewarding. Perfect for both new and seasoned parents, this podcast helps you build the confidence to handle teen challenges and thrive together. #theteentranslator #drcamcaswell #parentingteenswithdrcam

Ever wonder why your once bright and enthusiastic child now seems overwhelmed, stressed, and constantly down on themselves? You're not alone. Research shows that nearly 80% of teens struggle with negative self-talk, and it affects their confidence, academic performance, and overall well-being. In this episode, we chat with school psychologist and teen coach Natalie Borrell, the founder of Life Success for Teens, who shares powerful strategies to help your teen silence their inner critic and thrive with confidence. Tune in to learn how to break the cycle of negativity and cultivate a growth mindset for success.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE How to identify the signs of a critical inner voice in your teenager Practical tools and techniques for challenging negative thoughts The importance of self-compassion and building lasting confidence Why teens need to hear support from more than just their parents   5 KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR PARENTS OF TEENS Negative self-talk can easily turn into negative beliefs, affecting your teen’s confidence and success. Silencing your teen's inner critic is possible by taking action and addressing the root of the issue. Sometimes, your teen needs to hear encouragement from a new voice—a mentor, coach, or trusted adult. Self-compassion is crucial to breaking the cycle of negativity and building a healthy mindset. Time management and confidence are closely linked; addressing both helps teens thrive.   🎧❤️ ENJOYING THE SHOW? Don’t keep it to yourself! Share your favorite episode and leave a rating and review to help other parents find the support they need. Your feedback helps me create even more episodes filled with practical tips for you and your family! Thanks so much for your support! 🙏💫 🔔 Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE so you never miss another solution-packed episode! 🙌   RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE • Life Success for Teens - Masterclass: 5 Step Strategy to Transform Your Teen CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Natalie Borrell Website: LifeSuccessForTeens.com Instagram: @LifeSuccessForTeens   CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST: Dr. Cam Caswell Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell Parenting Teens Academy: https://www.skool.com/parenting-teens-academy ABOUT THE SHOW The Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Podcast is your go-to resource for navigating the challenges of raising teenagers. Hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach, this podcast offers practical parenting strategies, expert advice, and real-world insights to help you build a stronger relationship with your teen and support their emotional growth. Whether you’re struggling with teenage behavior or looking to improve communication, each episode provides actionable tips to make parenting teens easier and more rewarding. Perfect for both new and seasoned parents, this podcast helps you build the confidence to handle teen challenges and thrive together. #theteentranslator #drcamcaswell #parentingteenswithdrcam

Are you struggling to raise a teen who can cope with life's challenges? In this transformative episode, Dr. Caroline Leaf, a clinical neuroscientist, bestselling author, and expert in mental health and resilience, shares invaluable insights into how to build emotional resilience in teens. Dr. Leaf is the host of the popular podcast Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess and the author of 18 books, including Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess and How to Help Your Child Clean Up Their Mental Mess. She’s dedicated her career to understanding the mind-body connection and empowering families to nurture emotional wellness. In this conversation, Dr. Leaf introduces a practical, science-based process that helps teens (and their parents) overcome obstacles with strength, clarity, and hope.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE How the mind-body connection shapes our resilience and why it’s unlimited. The Neurocycle process Dr. Leaf developed to help build emotional resilience. Why resilience isn’t a limited resource—and how to tap into it effectively. The importance of modeling resilience for your teens instead of "fixing" them.   5 KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR PARENTS OF TEENS Model Resilience for Your Teen Dr. Caroline Leaf emphasizes that teens are more likely to follow your example than your words. Show them how you handle challenges with resilience, so they can learn from your actions. Use the Neurocycle to Reorganize Experiences The Neurocycle method can help your teen process their emotions and experiences. Dr. Leaf shares how parents can guide teens to recognize the "signals" of their experiences, dig into them, and reframe their thoughts. Avoid Pathologizing Your Teen’s Struggles Instead of labeling your teen’s emotional struggles as mental health problems, focus on helping them reframe their experiences as opportunities for growth. This helps them see challenges as normal parts of life, rather than something to be "fixed." Create a Safety Net for Your Teen Dr. Leaf recommends "safety net parenting," where you support your teen through their failures, instead of trying to prevent them from making mistakes. This allows your teen to learn resilience and face adversity without fear of judgment. Embrace the Power of Neuroplasticity Help your teen understand that their brains are capable of change. Dr. Leaf shares how the Neurocycle, used consistently over time, can rewire negative thought patterns, leading to long-term emotional growth and resilience.   🎧❤️ ENJOYING THE SHOW? Don’t keep it to yourself! Share your favorite episode and leave a rating and review to help other parents find the support they need. Your feedback helps me create even more episodes filled with practical tips for you and your family! Thanks so much for your support! 🙏💫 🔔 Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE so you never miss another solution-packed episode! 🙌   RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Neurocycle App (20% off with code NEUROCYCLE20) Book: Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess Book: How to Help Your Child Clean Up their Mental Mess Book:Think, Learn, Succeed Podcast: Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess   EPISODE CHAPTERS: [00:00] – Introduction to Dr. Caroline Leaf’s Approach to Mental Health [03:15] – Resilience: Beyond What You’ve Been Told [06:45] – Why Building Resilience in Teens Requires a New Approach [10:30] – Modeling Resilience as a Parent [14:00] – The Power of Neuroplasticity in Teen Brain Development [18:30] – Overcoming Trauma: A New Way of Thinking [22:00] – How Parents Can Use the NeuroCycle to Build Resilience [26:15] – The Science of Emotional Healing: 3 Steps to Rewire Your Teen’s Brain [30:00] – How Long Does It Take to Build Resilience in Teens? [33:45] – The Importance of Taking Action: Changing the Way You Respond [37:30] – Toxic Positivity vs. Healthy Emotional Support for Teens [41:00] – Do You Want to Change? How to Make Lasting Emotional Change [45:00] – Conclusion: Building Resilience and Navigating Parenting Challenges   CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Dr. Caroline Leaf Website: DrLeaf.com Instagram: @DrCarolineLeaf YouTube: Dr. Caroline Leaf Facebook: @drleaf   CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST: Dr. Cam Caswell Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell  YouTube: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam   ABOUT THE SHOW The Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Podcast is your go-to resource for navigating the challenges of raising teenagers. Hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach, this podcast offers practical parenting strategies, expert advice, and real-world insights to help you build a stronger relationship with your teen and support their emotional growth. Whether you’re struggling with teenage behavior or looking to improve communication, each episode provides actionable tips to make parenting teens easier and more rewarding. Perfect for both new and seasoned parents, this podcast helps you build the confidence to handle teen challenges and thrive together. #theteentranslator #drcamcaswell #parentingteenswithdrcam

Wondering how to get your teen help for substance abuse? About 2 million US teens ages 12 to 17 have a substance use disorder, according to SAMHSA. An interventionist and family systems coach shares when to step in and how to get your teen the help they need. 👉 Want to feel steady and prepared if your teen is in trouble? Parenting Teens Academy helps you stay calm, stay connected, and know your next step when it matters most. Join us here: https://www.skool.com/parenting-teens-academy/about In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, I'm joined by Dr. Louise, a family systems coach, interventionist, and leader in behavioral health and addiction treatment. She shares practical steps to help parents step in and support a teen who is struggling with drugs or alcohol. What you'll learn: 1. How to tell when your teen's substance use needs outside help 2. What an intervention is, and when it makes sense 3. How the whole family plays a role in a teen's recovery 4. How to find the right treatment and support for your teen If you're worried about your teen's alcohol or drug use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 (US). It's free, confidential, and available 24/7.   Connect with Dr. Cam Caswell: Website: https://www.askdrcam.com Instagram: @drcamcaswell Parenting Teens Academy: https://www.skool.com/parenting-teens-academy   🎧 Know a parent who needs this? Share this episode with them. 🔔 Subscribe so you never miss a new episode.   About the show: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. If your teen's drinking or drug use is getting worse, or you're not sure when to step in, this conversation helps you know what to do next. Topics include teen substance abuse help, intervention for teens, teen addiction treatment, family recovery, and getting help for your teen.   #parentingteens #teensubstanceabuse #addictionrecovery  

Wondering how to get your teenager to respect you? If your teen ignores your requests, answers with sarcasm, or rolls their eyes when you talk, this episode shows you how to build respect that goes both ways. 👉 Want respect from your teen without a power struggle? Parenting Teens Academy helps you keep your authority and your connection at the same time. Join us here: https://www.skool.com/parenting-teens-academy/about If you're at a loss when it comes to your teen's rude behavior, this episode is for you. In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, I'm joined by Brooke Romney, bestselling author of 52 Modern Manners for Today's Teens, Volumes 1 and 2. Brooke shares how to build mutual respect and keep your authority while strengthening your connection with your teen. What you'll learn: 1. Why teens act rude, and how to respond without starting a power struggle 2. How to teach manners and respect that last into adulthood 3. How to keep your authority while staying connected 52 Modern Manners for Today's Teens by Brooke Romney: https://amzn.to/4hvEWPW (affiliate link) Connect with Brooke Romney: Instagram: @brookeromneywrites Connect with Dr. Cam Caswell: Website: https://www.askdrcam.com Instagram: @drcamcaswell 🎧 Know a parent who needs this? Share this episode with them. 🔔 Subscribe so you never miss a new episode. About the show: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. If your teen is rude, sarcastic, or disrespectful, or you want to raise a teen with good manners, this conversation gives you practical ways to build respect both ways. Topics include how to get your teenager to respect you, how to raise a respectful teenager, disrespectful teen, teen attitude, teaching teens manners, and eye rolling teenager. #parentingteens #respectfulteen #teenmanners  

Wondering about the signs of OCD in teens? If your teen repeats behaviors like excessive hand washing or struggles with intrusive thoughts they can't shake, this episode helps you understand what you're seeing and how to help.   👉 Want to help your teen break free from the worry loop? Parenting Teens Academy helps you support them with confidence instead of walking on eggshells. Join us here: https://www.skool.com/parenting-teens-academy/about   Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) affects around 1 to 2 in 100 children and teens, and it often shows up in ways parents don't expect. In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, I'm joined by Kimberley Quinlin, a therapist with extensive training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure and response prevention (ERP) for OCD and related disorders. She helps us recognize the signs of OCD in our teens, and shares how to support them.   What you'll learn: 1. The early signs of OCD in teens, from repeated behaviors to intrusive thoughts 2. How OCD differs from related conditions, like hair pulling 3. How ERP therapy helps teens with OCD 4. How to support your teen without accidentally feeding the OCD   Connect with Dr. Cam Caswell: Website: https://www.askdrcam.com Instagram: @drcamcaswell   🎧 Know a parent who needs this? Share this episode with them. 🔔 Subscribe so you never miss a new episode.   About the show: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen.   If you've noticed repeated rituals, constant worry, or intrusive thoughts in your teen, this conversation helps you understand what you're seeing and how to help. Topics include signs of OCD in teens, teen OCD, intrusive thoughts, ERP therapy, and OCD-related disorders. #parentingteens #teenOCD #intrusivethoughts

Why are teens so sleepy? About 7 in 10 high school students don't get enough sleep on school nights, according to the CDC. A sleep specialist explains what's going on with your teen's body clock and how to help them get the rest they need.   👉 Want a teen who wakes up rested instead of dragging through the day? Parenting Teens Academy helps you build sleep routines your teen will stick with, without nightly fights. Join us here: https://www.skool.com/parenting-teens-academy/about Too little sleep affects more than grades. It takes a toll on your teen's mood, physical health, and mental health too. In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, I'm joined by Dr. Angela Holliday-Bell, a board-certified physician and certified clinical sleep specialist. She shares practical strategies to help teens get the rest they need.   What you'll learn: 1. Why teens' body clocks shift later, and what that means for bedtime 2. How lack of sleep affects your teen's grades, mood, and health 3. How to handle phones and screens at night 4. Practical strategies to help your teen get more rest   Connect with Dr. Cam Caswell: Website: https://www.askdrcam.com Instagram: @drcamcaswell   🎧 Know a parent who needs this? Share this episode with them. 🔔 Subscribe so you never miss a new episode. About the show: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. If your teen stays up too late, can't wake up in the morning, or is always tired, this conversation gives you practical ways to improve their sleep. Topics include why are teens so sleepy, teenager always tired, how to help your teen get more sleep, sleep deprivation in teens, screens and sleep, and healthy sleep habits. #parentingteens #teensleep #sleephealth

Worried about how to pay for college? The Education Doctor, Dr. Pamela Ellis, shares how to help your teen win scholarships, find the right-fit college, and apply with confidence, without breaking the bank. 👉 Want to guide your teen through college decisions without the stress and arguments? Parenting Teens Academy helps you support their future while keeping your relationship strong. Join us here: https://www.skool.com/parenting-teens-academy/about In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, I'm joined by Dr. Pamela Ellis, MBA, PhD, known as The Education Doctor. Dr. Ellis has helped more than 1,000 families through the college process. She reports a 95% admission rate to top-choice colleges and an average of $75,000 in scholarships for the families she works with. What you'll learn: 1. How to pay for college without breaking the bank 2. How to find and win scholarships 3. How to find the right-fit college for your teen 4. How to make the application process less overwhelming Connect with Dr. Cam Caswell: Website: https://www.askdrcam.com Instagram: @drcamcaswell 🎧 Know a parent who needs this? Share this episode with them. 🔔 Subscribe so you never miss a new episode. About the show: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. If college costs keep you up at night, or you're not sure where to start with applications, this conversation gives you a clear plan. Topics include how to pay for college, how to get college scholarships, college admissions tips, right-fit colleges, and financial aid. #parentingteens #payingforcollege #collegescholarships

Want to build your teenager's confidence without rescuing them every time things get hard? This episode shows you when to step in, when to step back, and how self-worth grows from doing hard things. 👉 Want a teen who tries hard things instead of giving up? Parenting Teens Academy helps you build their confidence by knowing when to step in and when to let them grow. Join us here: https://www.skool.com/parenting-teens-academy/about How do you help your teen build confidence in a world that seems designed to chip away at it? And when do you step in, and when do you let them figure it out on their own? In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, I'm joined by Phinnah Chichi, a family coach with more than a decade of experience strengthening parent-child relationships. She shares how to support your teen's self-worth while giving them room to face life's challenges themselves, because confidence grows from doing hard things, not from being protected from them. What you'll learn: 1. Why rescuing your teen can chip away at their confidence 2. How to support your teen while letting them face challenges on their own 3. How to build self-worth that holds up in a world that keeps testing it Connect with Phinnah Chichi: Instagram: @phinnahchichi   Connect with Dr. Cam Caswell: Website: https://www.askdrcam.com Instagram: @drcamcaswell   🎧 Know a parent who needs this? Share this episode with them. 🔔 Subscribe so you never miss a new episode. About the show: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. If your teen lacks confidence, gives up easily, or struggles with self-worth, this conversation gives you practical ways to help them believe in themselves. Topics include how to build teenager confidence, confident teenager, teen self-worth, overprotective parenting, and letting teens fail. #parentingteens #confidentteens #teenselfworth

Feeling overwhelmed parenting a teen? School stress, social drama, and screen time battles can feel like a whirlwind that never lets up. This episode shows you how to cope with your own overwhelm and help your teen through theirs. 👉 Want to feel calmer and more in control, even on the hard days? Parenting Teens Academy helps you take care of yourself so you can show up steady for your teen. Join us here: https://www.skool.com/parenting-teens-academy/about Parenting a teen can feel like a nonstop stream of emotions, responsibilities, and expectations. And while we're feeling overwhelmed, our teens often are too. In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, I'm joined by Sheryl Gould, founder of Moms of Tweens and Teens, an international community for parents. Sheryl shares practical ways to handle your own overwhelm and help your teen through theirs. What you'll learn: 1. Why parenting a teen can feel so overwhelming 2. How to manage your own stress so you can show up calm 3. How to help your teen handle school stress and social drama 4. Simple ways to approach screen time without a fight Connect with Sheryl Gould and Moms of Tweens and Teens: Website: https://momsoftweensandteens.com/ Connect with Dr. Cam Caswell: Website: https://www.askdrcam.com Instagram: @drcamcaswell   🎧 Know a parent who needs this? Share this episode with them. 🔔 Subscribe so you never miss a new episode.   About the show: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. If you feel stretched thin, exhausted, or like you're failing at everything, this conversation helps you take a breath and find a calmer way forward, for you and your teen. Topics include overwhelmed parenting a teen, parent burnout, overwhelmed mom, parenting stress, teen stress, and how to cope with parenting a teenager. #parentingteens #parentburnout #momsoftweensandteens

Worried about failure to launch? If your teen or young adult isn't ready to make decisions, manage emotions, or handle life on their own, this episode shows you how to build the skills they need to launch. 👉 Want a young adult who's ready to stand on their own? Parenting Teens Academy helps you build their independence now, so launching feels exciting instead of scary. Join us here: https://www.skool.com/parenting-teens-academy/about We all want our teens to thrive on their own. But many of us worry they won't learn to make wise decisions, manage their emotions, or reach the maturity they need to survive in the wild by themselves. In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, I'm joined by Kim Muench, a certified Conscious Parenting Coach and founder of Real Life Parent Guide. Kim works with parents of emerging adults, ages 18 to 25, and is the author of Becoming Me While Raising You: A Mother's Journey to Her Self. She shares how to build independence and resilience in your teen so they're ready to launch. What you'll learn: 1. The skills teens need before they leave home 2. How to help your teen make wise decisions on their own 3. How to build the emotional resilience they'll need in the real world 4. How your own growth as a parent shapes your teen's launch Connect with Kim Muench: Website: https://www.reallifeparentguide.com/ Instagram: @kimmuenchparentcoach Connect with Dr. Cam Caswell: Website: https://www.askdrcam.com Instagram: @drcamcaswell 🎧 Know a parent who needs this? Share this episode with them. 🔔 Subscribe so you never miss a new episode. About the show: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. If you're worried your teen isn't ready for college, a job, or life on their own, this conversation gives you practical ways to prepare them. Topics include failure to launch, young adult won't leave home, preparing teens for adulthood, life skills for teens, emerging adults, and conscious parenting. #parentingteens #failuretolaunch #emergingadults

If you're worried your teen may have an eating disorder, talk with your pediatrician, or contact the ANAD Helpline at 1-888-375-7767 (US) for support. Teen eating disorder prevention starts at home. If you're worried about your teen's eating habits or how they feel about their body, this episode shows you the early warning signs and how to help your teen build a healthy relationship with food. 👉 Want to protect your teen's relationship with food and their body? Parenting Teens Academy helps you know what to say, what to skip, and how to notice early when something's off. Join us here: https://www.skool.com/parenting-teens-academy/about Social pressure and media messages can shape how teens see themselves, and parents are often the first to notice when something changes. In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, I'm joined by Dr. Morgan Francis, a licensed professional counselor and founder of Scottsdale Premier Counseling. Dr. Francis specializes in treating body image concerns and eating disorders, and she shares how parents can promote a healthy body image and self-acceptance in their teens. What you'll learn: 1. How social pressure and media shape your teen's body image 2. The early warning signs of disordered eating 3. What to say, and what not to say, about food and bodies 4. How to help your teen build self-acceptance and a healthy relationship with food Connect with Dr. Morgan Francis and Scottsdale Premier Counseling: Website: https://www.scottsdalepremiercounseling.com/  Connect with Dr. Cam Caswell: Website: https://www.askdrcam.com Instagram: @drcamcaswell 🎧 Know a parent who needs this? Share this episode with them. 🔔 Subscribe so you never miss a new episode. About the show: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. If you've noticed changes in your teen's eating, how they talk about their body, or how they feel about themselves, this conversation helps you know what to look for and how to support them. Topics include teen eating disorder prevention, signs of an eating disorder in teens, eating disorders in teens, teen body image, disordered eating, and how to talk to your teen about food. #parentingteens #eatingdisorderawareness #bodyimage

Looking for natural ways to ease your teen's ADHD symptoms? If your teen struggles with focus, impulsivity, time management, friendships, or self-esteem, a holistic health and nutrition practitioner shares how food and daily habits can help your teen do well at school and at home. 👉 Want your teen with ADHD to feel more in control and less frustrated? Parenting Teens Academy helps you support their strengths and ease the daily battles. Join us here: https://www.skool.com/parenting-teens-academy/about In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, I'm joined by Dana Kay, a board-certified holistic health and nutrition practitioner, two-time international bestselling author, and founder of the ADHD Thrive Institute. Dana shares natural approaches to easing ADHD symptoms and helping teens succeed in their personal and academic lives. What you'll learn: 1. How ADHD shows up in teens, from focus and impulsivity to self-esteem 2. How nutrition and daily habits can affect ADHD symptoms 3. Natural strategies to help your teen focus and manage their time 4. How to help your teen do well at school and in their relationships Natural approaches can work alongside other ADHD treatment, but they aren't a replacement. Talk with your teen's doctor before making changes, especially to medication. Connect with Dr. Cam Caswell: Website: https://www.askdrcam.com Instagram: @drcamcaswell 🎧 Know a parent who needs this? Share this episode with them. 🔔 Subscribe so you never miss a new episode. About the show: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. If your teen with ADHD struggles to focus, manage time, or feel good about themselves, this conversation shares natural ways to help. Topics include natural ways to ease your teen's ADHD symptoms, ADHD diet for teens, food and ADHD, ADHD in teens, focus and impulsivity, and holistic ADHD support. #parentingteens #ADHD #ADHDteens

Looking for natural ways to ease your teen's stress? If your teen's moods swing from smiles to storming off over the smallest things, a master herbalist shares her favorite botanical remedies for calming stress and anxiety. 👉 Want a calmer teen and a calmer home? Parenting Teens Academy gives you everyday tools to ease the stress and stay steady when emotions run high. Join us here: https://www.skool.com/parenting-teens-academy/about One minute they're all smiles, and the next, they're storming off. If you're not sure how to help your teen handle these intense feelings, this episode is for you. In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, I'm joined by master herbalist Sara Chana, who has spent more than 30 years helping teens find a calmer, more centered state. You may know her from her book Moodtopia or her TV appearances. She shares some of her top botanical remedies for stress and anxiety. What you'll learn: 1. Why teens' moods and stress levels can swing so quickly 2. Sara Chana's favorite herbal remedies for stress and anxiety 3. How botanical remedies can support a calmer state of mind 4. Simple, natural ways to help your teen feel more centered Herbal remedies aren't right for everyone and can interact with medications. Check with your teen's doctor before trying anything new. Connect with Dr. Cam Caswell: Website: https://www.askdrcam.com Instagram: @drcamcaswell 🎧 Know a parent who needs this? Share this episode with them. 🔔 Subscribe so you never miss a new episode. About the show: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. If your teen is stressed, anxious, or riding an emotional rollercoaster, this conversation shares natural ways to help them feel calmer. Topics include natural remedies for teen stress, natural remedies for teen anxiety, herbal remedies, teen mood swings, and Moodtopia. #parentingteens #teenstress #naturalremedies

How do you prepare your teen for a future full of jobs that don't exist yet? Preparing teens for the future means more than grades and a resume. This episode shows you how to help your teen build the skills and mindset to succeed, whatever comes next. 👉 Want a teen who's ready for whatever the future throws at them? Parenting Teens Academy helps you build the skills and confidence that last long after graduation. Join us here: https://www.skool.com/parenting-teens-academy/about Sponsored by Pearson's Connections Academy Many of the jobs our teens will hold someday haven't been invented yet. So how do we prepare them for a future we can't see? In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, I'm joined by Dr. Lorna Bryant, head of career education at Pearson's Connections Academy. She shares how to prepare teens for success in a fast-changing world, without piling on more pressure. What you'll learn: 1. How to ease the pressure to succeed and redefine what success means 2. How to balance preparing for the future with your teen's needs right now 3. How to help your teen build skills and find opportunities 4. How younger generations see work, careers, and well-being differently 5. Why exploring different interests, and even changing paths, helps teens find their passion Connect with Dr. Cam Caswell: Website: https://www.askdrcam.com Instagram: @drcamcaswell 🎧 Know a parent who needs this? Share this episode with them. 🔔 Subscribe so you never miss a new episode. About the show: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. If you're worried about your teen's future, feeling pressure about college and careers, or not sure how to prepare them for a changing world, this conversation helps you focus on what matters. Topics include preparing teens for the future, career success for teens, jobs of the future, redefining success, and finding your passion. #parentingteens #futureofwork #careerreadiness

Stuck in a standoff with a stubborn teenager? When their mind is made up and nothing you say gets through, this episode shows you why teens dig in and how to change a stubborn mind. 👉 Want your teen to hear you out instead of digging in? Parenting Teens Academy helps you get through to your teen without the standoffs. Join us here: https://www.skool.com/parenting-teens-academy/about Their mind is made up, and nothing you say seems to change it. Sound familiar? In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, I'm joined by bestselling author Michael McQueen, an expert on how people change their minds. He explains why teens dig in, the mistakes parents make when trying to persuade them, and what works instead. What you'll learn: 1. Why teens dig in, and the persuasion mistakes most parents make 2. How empathy and curiosity open a closed mind 3. How to negotiate, set boundaries, and problem-solve together 4. Why honesty and a little vulnerability earn more respect than authority alone 5. The simple side-by-side approach that gets teens talking Connect with Michael McQueen: Website: https://michaelmcqueen.net/ Connect with Dr. Cam Caswell: Website: https://www.askdrcam.com Instagram: @drcamcaswell 🎧 Know a parent who needs this? Share this episode with them. 🔔 Subscribe so you never miss a new episode. About the show: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. If your teenager is stubborn, won't listen to reason, or shuts down every time you disagree, this conversation gives you practical ways to get through to them. Topics include stubborn teenager, how to persuade a teenager, how to get through to your teen, negotiating with teenagers, and parent-teen communication. #parentingteens #stubbornteen #parentteencommunication

Is your teen being radicalized online? Extremist groups are targeting kids as young as 11 on the platforms teens use most, often through gaming images and memes. A clinical psychologist shares how to protect your teen and keep the conversation open. 👉 Want your teen to come to you instead of the internet for answers? Parenting Teens Academy helps you have the hard conversations that keep teens grounded. Join us here: https://www.skool.com/parenting-teens-academy/about In this episode, Dr. Emily Bashaw, a clinical psychologist and expert on radicalization, discusses the alarming trend of extremist groups targeting teenagers on social media platforms. She explains the concept of addictive ideologies and how vulnerable individuals can be influenced by propaganda and tribal beliefs. Dr. Bashaw emphasizes the importance of building resilience and critical thinking skills in teenagers to protect them from extremist influences. She also highlights the role of parents in fostering open communication and engaging in difficult conversations with their teens.  The conversation concludes with a reminder to humanize others and promote acceptance while demanding personal growth.   KEY TAKEAWAYS Teenagers are vulnerable to extremist influences on social media platforms, and parents need to be proactive in safeguarding their children. Building resilience and critical thinking skills in teenagers can help protect them from falling prey to extremist ideologies. Engaging in open and non-confrontational conversations with teenagers can help them develop a broader perspective and resist extremist messages. Humanizing others and promoting acceptance are essential in countering extremist beliefs and fostering empathy.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:03 Addictive Ideologies and Radicalization 04:07 The Influence of Social Media and Online Behavior 05:24 Impact on Teenagers 09:31 Signs of Targeting and Messages 10:42 Preventing Extremist Influences 13:48 Engaging in Difficult Conversations 15:05 Understanding Extremist Recruitment Tactics 18:36 Promoting Agency and Critical Thinking 20:45 Acceptance and Demanding More 25:49 Humanizing Others and Building Resilience 29:34 Engaging with Teens 31:46 Conclusion Resources Mentioned in This Episode Addictive Ideologies: Finding Meaning in Agency When Politics Fail You. Dr. Bashah’s FREE worksheets for parents. FREE Guide: Dr. Cam’s 10 Pro Tips for Raising Teens   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

Want to get your teenager to open up? If you ask how their day was and get one word or a closed door, this episode shows you how to build conversations your teen wants to have. 👉 Want your teen talking to you again? Parenting Teens Academy helps you turn one-word answers into real conversations and stay close through the teen years. Join us here: https://www.skool.com/parenting-teens-academy/about Does talking to your teen feel like talking to a wall? Teens are going through huge physical and emotional changes while figuring out who they are, and that can make it hard for them to open up, even about things that matter. In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, I'm joined by Ruth Klein, author of Conscious Connection and founder of the nonprofit Universal Mom. Ruth shares strategies for breaking through communication breakdowns and building trust so your teen feels safe opening up. What you'll learn: 1. Why communication breaks down during the teen years 2. How to create conversations your teen wants to have 3. How to reconnect when your teen has shut you out Connect with Ruth Klein: Website: https://universalmom.org/about-universal-mom/ Connect with Dr. Cam Caswell: Website: https://www.askdrcam.com Instagram: @drcamcaswell 🎧 Know a parent who needs this? Share this episode with them. 🔔 Subscribe so you never miss a new episode. About the show: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. If your teenager won't talk to you, gives one-word answers, or shuts down every conversation, this episode gives you practical ways to open the door again. Topics include how to get your teenager to open up, my son won't talk to me, teen won't talk to me, parent-teen communication, and how to connect with your teen. #parentingteens #parentteencommunication #teenagers

Are you an immigrant parent raising a teen in a very different world from the one you grew up in? This episode shows you how to bridge the culture gap, honor your heritage, and stay close to your teen. 👉 Want to stay connected to your teen across two cultures? Parenting Teens Academy helps you honor where you come from while meeting your teen where they are. Join us here: https://www.skool.com/parenting-teens-academy/about Many immigrant parents feel caught between the traditions and expectations they were raised with and the culture their teens are growing up in. That gap can lead to misunderstandings, communication breakdowns, and pain that gets passed down from one generation to the next. In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, I'm joined by somatic and mental fitness coach Amy Yip. Amy helps us recognize and heal intergenerational wounds, and find a way to honor our heritage while understanding the world our teens live in. What you'll learn: 1. Why cultural differences can create a gap between immigrant parents and their teens 2. How intergenerational trauma can show up in family relationships 3. How to honor your heritage while adapting to your teen's world 4. Body-based tools to notice and begin healing old wounds Connect with Dr. Cam Caswell: Website: https://www.askdrcam.com Instagram: @drcamcaswell 🎧 Know a parent who needs this? Share this episode with them. 🔔 Subscribe so you never miss a new episode. About the show: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. If you're an immigrant parent, raising a teen between two cultures, or struggling to connect across generations, this conversation helps you bridge the gap. Topics include immigrant parents and teens, raising teens in two cultures, intergenerational trauma, cultural differences in parenting, children of immigrants, and generational healing. #parentingteens #immigrantparents #generationalhealing

If you're worried about your teen's substance use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 (US). It's free, confidential, and available 24/7. Want to prevent teen addiction before it starts? Whether you're worried about technology, substances, or other behaviors, this episode shows you the early signs and the proactive steps that help protect your teen. 👉 Want to lower your teen's risk before there's a problem? Parenting Teens Academy helps you build the connection and habits that protect teens from addiction. Join us here: https://www.skool.com/parenting-teens-academy/about Worried your teen could be headed toward addiction? The good news is there's a lot parents can do before a problem starts. In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, I'm joined by child and adolescent psychiatrist Dr. Gayani DeSilva, author of A Psychiatrist's Guide: Stop Teen Addiction Before It Starts and A Psychiatrist's Guide: Helping Parents Reach Their Depressed Tween. She shares proactive steps parents can take to help protect their teens. What you'll learn: 1. The early signs of addiction, whether it's tech, substances, or behaviors 2. Why some teens are more vulnerable than others 3. Proactive steps that help protect your teen 4. How to talk with your teen about substances and screens Resources Mentioned in This Episode A Psychiatrist's Guide: Stop Teen Addiction Before It Starts A Psychiatrist's Guide: Helping Parents Reach Their Depressed Tween Connect with Dr. Gayani DeSilva: Website: https://lagunafamily.com/gayani-desilva-md/ Connect with Dr. Cam Caswell: Website: https://www.askdrcam.com Instagram: @drcamcaswell 🎧 Know a parent who needs this? Share this episode with them. 🔔 Subscribe so you never miss a new episode. About the show: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. If you're worried about your teen and drugs, alcohol, vaping, or screens, this conversation gives you practical ways to lower their risk. Topics include prevent teen addiction, teen addiction prevention, teen substance use, signs of addiction in teens, teen vaping, and screen addiction.

Want to stop arguing with your teen? So many fights, hurt feelings, and slammed doors start with simple miscommunication. I share a few tips to prevent misunderstandings before they turn into another argument. 👉 Want fewer fights and more real conversations with your teen? Parenting Teens Academy helps you get through to your teen without the blowups. Join us here: https://www.skool.com/parenting-teens-academy/about What you'll learn: 1. Why miscommunication sparks so many fights with teens 2. How to spot a misunderstanding before it turns into an argument 3. Simple ways to make sure you and your teen are on the same page 4. How to repair things when a conversation goes sideways Connect with Dr. Cam Caswell: Website: https://www.askdrcam.com Instagram: @drcamcaswell 🎧 Know a parent who needs this? Share this episode with them. 🔔 Subscribe so you never miss a new episode. About the show: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen. If every conversation with your teen seems to end in a fight, this episode helps you get to the root of the problem. Topics include how to stop arguing with your teen, miscommunication with teens, parent-teen communication, fewer fights, and how to talk to your teen. #parentingteens #teencommunication #parentingtips

In this episode, my daughter Alexa has agreed to join me to talk about the school year. She had a week to mourn not being able to go back physically (aka complain and sulk freely) and now we need to address her concerns and come up with a plan. We're going to do it in real-time so you can watch us. Not sure how it'll go, but here it goes...   Connect with Dr. Cam www.askdrcam.com | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter | YouTube | iTunes If you found this episode helpful, please LIKE, FOLLOW, REVIEW & SHARE. Thanks :)

How do you motivate an unmotivated teen? Many parents are struggling with this dilemma now that our kids are all learning from home. We've tried bribing, threatening, nagging, yelling...nothing seems to work. Today I pull some insights from Daniel Pink's book "Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us" and show you how to apply them to our teens.  Connect with Dr. Cam www.askdrcam.com | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter | YouTube | iTunes If you found this episode helpful, please LIKE, FOLLOW, REVIEW & SHARE. Thanks :)

As I wait for the results of the presidential election to come in, I realize there are two big lessons we can learn about this experience to help us with parenting teens: The power of the vote and the power of recognition. Both are quite effective ways to build our teen's motivation and self-worth. Connect with Dr. Cam www.askdrcam.com | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter | YouTube | iTunes If you found this episode helpful, please LIKE, FOLLOW, REVIEW & SHARE. Thanks :) 

In this episode, we turn the spotlight on a critical issue that demands our attention: Teen suicide. The latest stats are a stark wake-up call, revealing that it's the second leading cause of death among adolescents aged 10 to 24 in the United States. This underscores the urgent need for effective prevention and support. Joining us is Suzie Bartel, the visionary founder of the Ryan Bartel Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to providing proactive programs for teens and parents. Suzie enlightens us about the two vital factors that make a real difference in raising happy and resilient teens. Together, we're on a mission to prevent other families from enduring the pain associated with teen suicide.     The 'Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam' Podcast: Your Guide to Navigating Adolescence Without Losing Your Mind. Hosted by Cameron (Dr. Cam) Caswell, an acclaimed adolescent psychologist with 20+ years of experience in empowering parents and nurturing teen development. In every episode she is joined by a guest expert to help parents overcome the challenges and celebrate the joys of raising teens.   Resources Mentioned in This Episode The FORT: A community space where teens  Article: Acceptance Is a Gift That Gives Back FREE Guide: Dr. Cam’s 10 Pro Tips for Raising Teens   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

😤 Struggling to motivate your teenager to focus on what really matters? If so, this episode is a must-listen! 🎙️ Join me as I chat with Jason Cole, a seasoned author and a respected name in the sports world. With eight books under his belt, including the intriguing "Shut up Your Kid Is Not That Great" and firsthand experience raising two teen boys of his own, Jason's here to offer a candid take on how our well-intentioned parenting strategies can inadvertently smother our kids and hinder their essential skill development. 🚀 Don't miss this enlightening discussion! Tune in to discover better ways to support your teens and help them thrive. 🌟 #TeenParenting #MotivationMatters #TheTeenTranslator   Resources Mentioned in This Episode Shut up Your Kid Is Not That Great FREE Guide: Dr. Cam’s 10 Pro Tips for Raising Teens   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

🌟 Got a bright teen struggling in school? You're not alone! Many students have untapped potential, and it's frustrating for us parents to watch. 🚀 That's why we've brought in Sam Young, aka Mr. Sam, founder of Young Scholars Academy (@YSAENRICHMENT). Sam's on a mission to support twice-exceptional, differently-wired, and gifted students to thrive through strength-based education and a nurturing community. 💪 Join us as Sam shares how to help teens discover, nurture, and lead with their unique strengths and talents.   #TeenEducation #UnlockingPotential #StrengthsBasedLearning #teentranslator #drcam #ParentingTeens #TeenStrengths #GiftedStudents #TwiceExceptional     Resources Mentioned in This Episode Creating A Strength-Based Task Management System Joseph Renzulli - What is Giftedness? Howard Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences FREE Guide: Dr. Cam’s 10 Pro Tips for Raising Teens   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

In this episode we're unpacking a topic that's not just timely; it's absolutely essential: How to Raise an Antiracist. In an era where issues of race and social justice dominate headlines, it's crucial that we equip our teens with the knowledge and tools to be active participants in the fight against racism.  Joining me are the co-authors of the The Antiracist Heart: A Self-Compassion and Activism Handbook. Roxy Manning a clinical psychologist and certified Center for Nonviolent Communication (CNVC) trainer and Sarah Peyton a Certified Trainer of Nonviolent Communication and neuroscience educator. Together they will shed light on how we can guide our teens to become not just non-racist, but antiracist advocates who actively work towards a fair and inclusive world.   Resources Mentioned in This Episode How to Have Antiracist Conversations: Embracing Our Full Humanity to Challenge White Supremacy. The Antiracist Heart: A Self-Compassion and Activism Handbook Your Resonant Self book series Fierce Compassion Podcast: Embodying NonViolence in the Classroom with Mike Tinoco.  FREE Guide: Dr. Cam’s 10 Pro Tips for Raising Teens   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

In this episode we're diving into a crucial topic that's impacting teens across America. We're witnessing a concerning rise in anxiety, depression, and tragically, record-high rates of youth suicide. But what's really troubling is the relentless stigma that keeps so many teens from opening up about their struggles and seeking help. Dr. Cam talks with two fantastic guests today: Erin Gallagher, the Executive Director of This Is My Brave (@thisismybrave), and Beth Murphy, the founder of Principle Pictures. These incredible women are part of the team behind the eye-opening documentary, "Our Turn to Talk." (https://www.ourturntotalk.com/) This film follows several brave teens on their journey to shatter the mental health stigma by sharing their own stories – raw and unfiltered.    Resources Mentioned in This Episode Watch Our Turn to Talk Documentary on YouTube Our Turn to Talk This is My Brave Teen Mental Health Month info and resource:  Jay Walkers for Suicide Prevention Awareness  FREE Guide: Dr. Cam’s 10 Pro Tips for Raising Teens   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe fro

We talk a lot on this show about how critical it is to maintain a strong relationship with our teenagers to nurture their mental, emotional, and social well-being. It is also a protective factor against anxiety, depression, drug use, and so much more. But knowing it and doing it are very different things. Many parents tell me that they want to connect with their teens, but their teens don’t want anything to do with them. So what do we do? Today I’m joined by Meghan Leahy, a renowned parent coach and parenting columnist at the Washington Post. Meghan specializes in helping caregivers build and strengthen connections with their children, even when it feels incredibly hard.     Resources Mentioned in This Episode Meghan Leahy’s parenting column in the Washington Post FREE Guide: Dr. Cam’s 10 Pro Tips for Raising Teens Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

In this episode we dive into a concerning trend: teen school refusal. Following the pandemic, school avoidance cases have doubled, escalating into a crisis that affects families across the nation. If you're worried that your teen’s increasing absences will impact their academic performance, social development, and mental well-being, you’re in the right place. Joining us is an esteemed expert, Dr. Jennifer Bienstock. As a licensed psychologist and Director of Clinical Training at the Center for Anxiety & Behavioral Change in Rockville, MD, Dr. Bienstock is here to explain this concerning issue, and how parents can best support teenagers struggling with school avoidance.   Resources Mentioned in This Episode FREE Guide: Dr. Cam’s 10 Pro Tips for Raising Teens   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

If you are worried or fed up with your teen’s digital addiction, this episode is for you. We are all painfully aware of the impact that excessive screen time and constant connectivity has on our teen’s mental health, focus, and resiliency. However, we also know that technology is tightly woven into every aspect of our lives and has transformed the way we live, work, learn, and connect. Our job as parents is to find the balance between embracing the benefits of technology and safeguarding our children’s mental and emotional well-being. Not an easy line to walk! In this episode, Dr. Cam is joined by school principal Dr. Michael Gaskell to discuss how we can help our teens navigate through the digital noise and reverse its impact on their wellness, focus, and resilience.  Dr. Gaskell has written several articles on the topic of digital disruption and its effects on students. He has also discussed the importance of supporting teachers in dealing with the disruptions caused by technology and how administrators can help them in this regard. He currently writes a monthly column in ASCD Smartbrief, presents at national conferences, and has published three books: Radical Principals, Leading Schools Through Trauma, and Microstrategy Magic.    Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

To the horror of parents worldwide, human trafficking is a growing problem. According to the latest stats, 400,000 minors are trafficked annually. Those at most risk are adolescent girls who are craving attention or have low self-esteem. In this episode we talk about how to keep our daughters safe. Dr. Cam is joined by Dr. John DeGarmo, the founder and director of The Foster Care Institute. As foster parents, he and his wife have had over 60 children come through their home. He is also an international consultant to schools, legal firms, and foster care agencies and the author of several books, including The Little Book of Foster Care Wisdom. Dr. John has appeared on Good Morning, America, CNN, NBC, and FOX.  He and his wife have received many awards, including the Good Morning America Ultimate Hero Award. Dr. John tells us parents what we need to know about human trafficking and keeping our kids safe.    Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

Do you dread your teen’s emotional outbursts? Is it difficult to calm them down once they get riled up? Do you want to end the exhausting fights and power struggles? Then this episode is for you. In this episode, Dr. Cam is joined by Lawyer-Turned-Peacemaker, Douglas E. Noll. Doug is the co-founder of Prison of Peace, author of several books including De-Escalate: How to Calm an Angry Person in 90 Seconds or Less, and the creator of the Noll Affect Labeling System. He currently trains inmates in maximum-security prisons to be peacemakers and mediators.  Douglas is going to teach us how to use his method with our teenagers so we can have some peace at home once and for all.    Resources Mentioned in This Episode FREE eBOOK: How to Listen Others Into Existence  FREE Guide: Dr. Cam’s 10 Pro Tips for Raising Teens   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

Although there is still a lot that we need to learn, societal understanding and awareness of nonbinary identities is improving. Nonbinary often experience a gender identity that falls outside of the male/female binary and may choose to use gender-neutral pronouns such as "they/them" instead of he/him or she/her. Teens who identify as nonbinary may experiment with different gender expressions, including clothing, hairstyles, and accessories, to find what aligns with their authentic selves. Research suggests that nonbinary teens may face higher rates of mental health challenges compared to cisgender (non-transgender) peers, including increased levels of anxiety, depression, self-harm, and suicidality. This has been attributed to high rates of societal discrimination, misgendering, exclusion, bullying, and a lack of supportive resources. Many nonbinary teens find solace and support within LGBTQ+ communities, online platforms, and youth organizations. They often engage in activism, advocating for their rights, gender equality, and inclusion in various aspects of society. In this episode, Dr. Cam talks with one of these brave advocates, Ivy, a college student and artist who also happens to identify as nonbinary. Ivy shares their story, explains what it’s like to try to be their authentic self in a world that’s not always accepting, and provides some insight into how we can best support our own children who may not identify with a traditional label.   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

Over the past decade, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of teenagers coming out as transgender. To skeptical parents, this is often perceived as a concerning trend fueled by social media and easily influenced teenage brains. To gender identity experts, it is attributed to increased awareness and understanding of gender diversity and the growing platforms that enable teens to find resources, support, and connections with others who have similar experiences. Regardless of what you believe, if your teen is questioning their identity, how you respond as a parent can have an enormous impact on their long-term mental health and well-being. In this episode, Dr. Cam is joined by Dr. Ronnie Gladden, an international speaker, actor, and tenured college professor who speaks regularly about identity, diversity, and inclusion for K-12 schools, universities, and nonprofits. They are also the author of White Girl Within: Letters of Self-Discovery Between a Transgender and Transracial Black Man and His Inner Female. Dr. Ronnie helps us navigate some of the complexities of gender identity and provides guidance on how to best support teens who identify as transgender. Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe

Teen’s are infamous for their risky behavior and questionable choices. It actually reflects healthy brain development (believe it or not). But when it comes to behavior that has serious repercussions like substance use, fighting, shoplifting, and truancy, we need to step in. Our instinct is to lay down the law and pile on the restrictions. But more often than not, that strategy backfires in the long run. So what do we do to keep our kids safe?  In this episode, Dr. Cam is joined by Bobby Huntley, the Superintendent and Pastor of Test of Faith Ministries in Virginia Beach. He served in the Virginia Beach City Public Schools for 19 years as a Security Assistant, In School Suspension Coordinator and Dean of Students / Work Adjustment Teacher. He was also the Director of The Gentlemen's Club, an after school mentoring program for boys. Bobby provides guidance for addressing risky teen behavior in a way that keeps them safe AND builds trust, connection, and respect.   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it with a friend.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast right here on YouTube!

Is your teen’s self-esteem in the dumps? Do your attempts to build up their confidence often land flat? If so, this episode is for you. In this episode, Dr. Cam is joined by Dr. Shainna, a mental health counselor and the author of The Self-Love Workbook for Teens. Dr. Shainna is passionate about destigmatizing mental health counseling and helping individuals worldwide recognize the importance of fostering mental wellness. She has been featured on ABC, CBS, NPR, the Washington Post, to name a few. Dr. Shainna teaches us some strategies for cultivating our children’s self-worth.   Resources Mentioned in This Episode The Mental Wellness Practice podcast   The Self Love Workbook for Teens The Self Love Workbook  Dr. Cam’s Top 10 Secrets for Raising Teens   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

Does the amount of time your teenager spends on their phone, playing video games, or scrolling through Tik Tok drive you mad? Do they go ballistic when you try to pry them away or even hint at doing something different? Then this episode is for you. In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Amanda Giordano, Associate Professor of Counseling at the University of Georgia and author of A Clinical Guide to Treating Behavioral Addictions and Addictions Counseling: A Practical Approach. Dr. Giordano is a prolific scholar in the field of addictions counseling and currently has authored 58 journal articles and book chapters. In addition, Dr. Giordano frequently presents on topics related to behavioral addictions both domestically and internationally.  Dr. Giordano tells us what parents need to know about adolescent behavioral addiction and provides tips on how to address it. Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

If your teen gets easily overwhelmed or freezes when they need to make a decision, this episode is for you. In this episode I’m joined by Dr. Juliana Negreiros and Dr. Katherine Martinez, psychologists and co-authors of Your anxious mind: A teen’s guide to anxiety and panic and Getting uncomfortable with uncertainty for Teens. We’re going to discuss how we can help our teens learn to manage their anxiety and stress through coping, problem-solving, and focusing on where they want to go.      3 Big Takeaways: Understanding that uncertainty takes the central stage of a teen’s life is key to helping them make room for and cope with it.  Teens need validation before we start problem-solving.  When our kids understand their passions, being brave and facing their fears becomes a lot easier Effective parenting starts with the end: we need to take the time to understand where we want our kids to end up so we can know where to begin.  Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

Are you tired of being the warden of homework, screen time, and sleep? Would you like to spend less time nagging and more time enjoying your teen? Then this episode is for you. In this episode, I’m joined by The Parenting Mentor, Sue Groner. Sue is the author of Parenting with Sanity and Joy, 101 Simple Strategies, the host of The Parenting Mentor Sessions Podcast, and is a certified Positive Discipline parent educator. She is also a frequent guest expert on ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox to name a few, and provides advice for many national publications and websites such as The Wall Street Journal, Parents, Real Simple, Today.com, HuffPost, and Katie Couric Media.  Sue provides us with some tips for guiding our teens without losing our own sanity.   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

If you are one of the many parents who are laser-focused on setting your teen up for future success by prioritizing their grades and building up their resume in order to get into the right college so they can get a good job, you may want to take a moment to listen to today’s episode. In this episode I’m joined by Deepali Vyas, the founder and CEO of Fearless+. Deepali spent 22 years as an executive recruiter and leadership consultant, reviewing over 100,000 resumes, filling 40,000 executive jobs, and conducting C-Suite leadership assessments. Now, she is helping the next generation prepare for their future careers. Deepali and I talk about: The diminishing ROI of college and how parents can prepare their kids for the workforce How to build Soft Skills over the summer (and during the school year)  Why grit is the most overlooked ingredient in the recipe for success — and how your teen can demonstrate resilience during the interview process. Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, I’m joined by father and filmmaker Olivier Bernier. Olivier and his wife Hilde created the award-winning documentary, “Forget Me Not: Inclusion in the Classroom,” which follows their journey as their son Emilio with down syndrome prepares to start school. The film aims to break down the social and systemic barriers that routinely segregate and hide children with intellectual disabilities from society. Olivier shares his story and provides guidance on how we can address the inequities in the education system for our own children.    3 Big Takeaways: Children with disabilities are being systematically segregated. Classrooms should mirror the society we want to live in and we all have a part to play. Everyone benefits from inclusive education- both neurotypical children and children with challenges.   Resources Mentioned in This Episode Watch the Film: Forget Me Not: Inclusion in the Classroom Resources about Classroom Inclusion Dr. Cam’s Top 10 Secrets for Raising Teens   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

If you want your teen to thrive within our current hypercompetitive culture and uncertain landscape, this episode is for you.    In this episode  I’m joined by Cindy Muchnick, Educational Consultant and author of The Parent Compass: Navigating Your Teen's Wellness and Academic Journey in Today's Competitive World, which Katie Couric selected as one of the top 11 fall parenting reads.  Cindy shows us how we can best support our teens without having to frantically tutor, manage, and helicopter them.   7 points to the Parent Compass Intact relationships Living a life with purpose Being confident and secure in one's capabilities Attending a "right fit" college Having a zest for exploration and developing insatiable curiosity Being able to self-advocate Embracing new challenges and the mistakes/failures/faltering that come along the way. Resources Mentioned in This Episode Buy the Parent Compass on Amazon Dr. Cam’s Top 10 Secrets for Raising Teens   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

This is my 3rd anniversary episode with Jamie Edelbrock. Jamie was my very first podcast guest back in 2019. Pre-Pandemic! We were both just starting a new chapter in our life story and scared!  Since then, Jamie has become a prolific advocate for children's mental health. She’s published two award-winning children’s books: Tangled Up and Be the Sparkle, which shine a positive, hopeful light on mental health and therapy. She’s also raising 3 teen girls of her own. Jamie and I talk about what she’s been up to, lessons learned, and 9 powerful ways parents can Be the Sparkle for their teenagers. Be calm Believe them  Ask if and how you can help them  Leave them alone if they want to be left alone  Do not take their words personally  Validate their feelings  Have patience  Listen to connect with them  Talk to a professional if needed    Resources Mentioned in This Episode Buy Tangled Up Buy Be the Sparkle Dr. Cam’s Top 10 Secrets for Raising Teens   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

If you want to prepare your teen to be successful in their careers or whatever they decide to do in the future, this episode is for you.  In this episode I’m joined by Michael Trezza, the Founder and CEO of Giant Leaps Learning, an online after-school enrichment program. Michael and his team help kids master the skills they’ll need become great leaders not just in the future, but right now.   Michael talks to us about the foundational routines and behaviors he believes are essential for setting our teens up to thrive.   Resources Mentioned in This Episode Learn more about Gian Leaps Learning Dr. Cam’s Top 10 Secrets for Raising Teens   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

Do your teen’s erratic mood swings and emotional outbursts make you feel like you’re on a never-ending rollercoaster ride? Then this episode is for you. The challenge of dealing with teen emotions is difficult for parents and teens alike. Parents feel like they’re walking on eggshells unsure of what will set their teen off or what to do about it when they do. Teen’s feel overwhelmed by growing demands around school, grades, performance, and behavior and the expectation that they should be able to handle it all and still be pleasant to be around. Although it may seem like a lose-lose situation at times, there are things we can do to change the dynamic. In this episode, I’m joined by Gina Nelson a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the creator of the 10-step method to Combating Teen Anxiety.   Gina teaches us how to help our teens manage their big emotions and have conversations about tough topics in a way that makes them feel safe and calm.   Resources Mentioned in This Episode Combating Teen Anxiety free mini course Combating Teen Anxiety Teen-Parent Journal on pre-order at Amazon  Dr. Cam’s Top 10 Secrets for Raising Teens   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

Are you baffled about why your teen is so anxious? Do you want to know how to help them? If so, this episode is for you. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 32% of teens suffered from an anxiety disorder in the last year compared to just 19% of adults, and the numbers keep growing.  What’s going on?! In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Loretta Breuning, author of many personal development books, including Habits of a Happy Brain: Retrain Your Brain to Boost Your Serotonin, Dopamine, Oxytocin and Endorphin Levels. She is also the Founder of the Inner Mammal Institute which helps thousands of people make peace with their inner mammal. Dr. Breuning teaches us how anxiety shows up in the brain and how we can use that information to help our teens (and ourselves) manage anxiety more effectively.   Resources Mentioned in This Episode Books by Dr. Loretta BreuningHabits of a Happy Brain: Retrain Your Brain to Boost Your Serotonin, Dopamine, Oxytocin, and Endorphin Levels Status Games Tame Your Anxiety: Rewiring Your Brain for Happiness The Science of Positivity Inner Mammal Institute Video Series Dr. Cam’s Top 10 Secrets for Raising Teens   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

If your teenager has low self-confidence or is anxious about being picked on, this episode is for you. 7 in 10 girls believe that they are not good enough or don’t measure up in some way, including their looks, performance in school, and friendships.  Boys struggle with self-esteem almost as much. When teens feel bad about themselves, they may try to avoid normal daily activities like going to school, or often engage in unhealthy activities like cutting, bullying, disordered eating, and even losing themselves in video games.  What can we do? In this episode, I’m joined by Clinical Psychologist, Kate Lund, who has worked with major hospitals, schools, and hundreds of parents. Her international bestselling book Bounce is the ultimate guide to helping children build resilience and thrive in all areas of life.     Kate and I discuss: How to help your teens build resilience Common mistakes parents make trying to build their teen’s confidence The #1 thing parents can do to build their child’s self-esteem   Resources Mentioned in This Episode Kate Lund’s Website Bounce Help Your Child Build Resilience and Thrive in School, Sports and Life The Seven Pillars of a Resilient Child parenting course Dr. Cam’s Top 10 Secrets for Raising Teens   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

If you’re worried your teen may be sending or receiving inappropriate snapchats, texts, and DMs, this episode is for you. According to the CDC sexting can damage a teen’s self-image, is linked to cyberbullying, increases rates of depression and other mental health issues, and may even result in felony charges. Yet, this activity has become somewhat normalized even expected among teens. Nearly 15% have sent an explicit or suggestive image or message, and one out of four teens have received one.  In this episode, I’m joined by Christy Keating, founder and CEO of The Heartful Parent, to discuss how to talk to our teens about consent, and what to do if we discover they’ve been sexting.    Resources Mentioned in This Episode The Heartful Parent website Parenting Outside the B.O.C.S. tip sheet Dr. Cam’s Top 10 Secrets for Raising Teens   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

If you have a plus-sized teen struggling with their body image or not feeling accepted, this episode is for you. Thanks to media, advertisers, and the ever-growing weight-loss industry, we live in a society that believes the thinner the better. This has led to an increase in eating disorders for both women and men, which has the highest mortality rate of any mental illness. To counter this dangerous trend, many are trying to reignite the body positive movement that was first launched in the 60’s. The goal is to shift the focus from thin as the image of “health” to the acceptance and celebration of all sizes and weights. But we still have a long way to go! In this episode I’m joined by Pam Luk, the founder of Ember & Ace, an athletic wear brand exclusively for plus size kids (PSKs).  Pam and I discuss: The impact of today’s thin culture on our kids How to help children of all shapes and sizes develop a positive body image How to support and advocate for our children   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it with a friend.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast right here on YouTube!

If you know or suspect your teen is using drugs or want to prevent them, this episode is for you. More than half of teens surveyed said they have experimented with substances such as alcohol, marijuana, vaping, and prescription drugs. Some are able to stop easily, some are not, some have no interest in even trying.  In this episode I’m joined by KL Wells, the Founder of Voices InCourage, to help parents navigate teen drug use and addiction. In this episode we cover: What parents can do if they suspect or know their child is using. How to protect your teen from addiction.   Resources Mentioned in This Episode Voices InCourage website  Dr. Cam’s Top 10 Secrets for Raising Teens   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it with a friend.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast right here on YouTube!

The American Academy of Pediatrics recently declared adolescent mental health a national emergency, as rates of depression, anxiety, self-harm and suicidal thoughts continue to skyrocket. The pandemic brought this serious issue to the forefront, but this uptick started years before COVID arrived on the scene.   Sadly, and too often, the parents of these teens are the last to learn about their child's mental health struggles—and often too late to take action. In this episode, I’m joined by Elliot Kallen, the Co-Founder and President of A Brighter Day, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing suicide by helping teens manage their depression and stress. Elliot is going to teach us what warning signs to look for and what we can do to protect our teens from the number one preventable cause of death.   Key Takeaways Warning signs: drastic change in behavior patterns (sleep habits, eating, socializing)  Redefine what failure means to remove implicit stress What we want for our child may not align with who they are and what they need. What parents can do: Listen! Cell phones create a highlight reel of everyone else’s life. Makes it seem like everyone else has a better life than they do. They feel like a victim Make dinner a cell phone free environment - for EVERYONE -- and talk. Ask questions: What are their favorite classes and why? Favorite activity and why? To make room for all the things we pack into our child’s life to ensure they succeed is often at the expense of the most important thing - time to build a connection with us. You can’t depend on the schools to care for your child’s mental health. They don’t have the training or the bandwidth. You need to take it into your own hands.   Resources Mentioned in This Episode Text "BRIGHTER" to 741741 for 24/7 mental health support Parent Survival Toolkit and a Teen Survival Toolkit Dr. Cam’s Top 10 Secrets for Raising Teens   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it with a friend.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast right here on YouTube!

If you’re uncomfortable or unsure about how to talk to your teen daughter about periods, sex, or personal hygiene this episode is for you. Today I’m joined by Dr. Jennifer Lincoln, a board-certified OB-GYN who is passionate about helping girls, women, and those assigned female at birth understand their bodies and feel empowered to advocate for themselves. Dr. Lincoln is going to help us tackle “the talk” and other tough health conversations with our teens. Resources Mentioned in This Episode Let's Talk About Down There: An OBGYN Answers All Your Burning Questions Without Making You Feel Embarrassed for Asking Dr. Jen’s YouTube playlist for parents Girlology Dr. Cam’s Top 10 Secrets for Raising Teens   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

If your teen is a target of bullying, the instigator, or even a witness to bullying, this episode is for you. One out of every five students report being bullied based on their physical appearance, race/ethnicity, gender, disability, religion, or sexual orientation. In other words, prejudice. The bullying behavior can range from verbal and physical assault to casual, yet hurtful comments. In all cases, it has a negative impact on the mental health of everyone involved: the bullied, the bully, and the bystander.  We know from research that ignoring the behavior or trying to stop it, only makes it worse because it doesn’t address why the behavior exists. So, what do we do instead? That’s what we’re going to talk about in this episode. Today I’m joined by Deanna Singh, founder of the Flying Elephant, who is on a mission to empower marginalized communities.     Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it with a friend.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast right here on YouTube!

If your teen is involved in sports, this episode is for you. We encourage our children to get involved in sports for many reasons: have fun, meet friends, get exercise, and learn valuable skills like teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Unfortunately, there is also an epidemic of abuse as well—not just at the Olympic and college level, but in our middle and high schools too. In this episode Dr. Amy Saltzman shares tips on how to spot and stop our own children from being abused and what we can do to create a safety net of prevention, healing, and protection to end this epidemic.  Key Takeaways Overt emotional abuse involves yelling and screaming and is easy to detect. Covert emotional abuse is subtle and often extremely hard to detect. Often looks like generosity at first with love bombs (special treatment, praise, gifts, and friendship). Builds trust.   The four primary patterns that covert emotionally abusive coaches weave together to create the web of covert emotional abuse: tangling feelings of specialness and fear, controlling the environment, isolating victims, and distorting the truth.  If child resists going to practice, get curious.  To keep our children safe, we must not only dismantle the spider’s web (the abuser), but also create a safety net of prevention, healing, and protection. Enacting policies that protect children on a national level is crucial to ending the epidemic of abuse and beginning cycles of healing.  If coach is abusive, report them. May also consider pulling child from team.   Resources Mentioned in This Episode Dr. Saltzman’s article See It. Stop It. Heal It:  Ending Cycles of Abuse in Sports and Society Spot a Spider videos Dr. Cam’s Top 10 Secrets for Raising Teens: www.askdrcam.com/parentingtips   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

This week, in recognition of pride month, we’re talking about how to better understand and support our non-binary and transgender children.  Although the LGBTQ+ community has gained more acceptance and support over the years, statistics show that most remain closeted in fear of discrimination. They are also at far more serious risk for depression, suicide, and victimization. My goal is to answer questions, clear up misconceptions, and put some fears to rest so we can show up for our children the way they need us to. In this episode I’m joined by my nephew, Matthias, to talk about gender identity, what it means to be non-binary, and how to best support our children as they transition. Matt is also an LGBTQ+ Tik Tok advocate at www.tiktok.com/@matthiaussy.    Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

This week, in recognition of pride month, we’re talking about how to better understand and support our non-binary and transgender children.  Although the LGBTQ+ community has gained more acceptance and support over the years, statistics show that most remain closeted in fear of discrimination. They are also at far more serious risk for depression, suicide, and victimization. My goal is to answer questions, clear up misconceptions, and put some fears to rest so we can show up for our children the way they need us to. In this episode I’m joined by Camden and his dad David to talk about the transgender experience, coming out, and how to best support our LGBTQ+ children.   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

If you’re worried about what your teen is doing online, concerned they’ll fall prey to predators, and can’t seem to get through to them how dangerous the internet can be, this episode is for you. I’m joined by Safety and Security Influencer Cathy Pedrayes to share tips for keeping our teens safe online.    Resources Mentioned in This Episode Get Cathy’s free ebook: The Mom Friend Guide to Everyday Safety and Security Dr. Cam’s Top 10 Secrets for Raising Teens: www.askdrcam.com/parentingtips   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

If you’re frustrated because your teen refuses to talk to you, wants little to do with you or the rest of family, or snaps at you when you provide guidance, this episode is for you. I’m joined by former middle school teacher turned coach Elise Knox. She shares tips on how to connect with our teens with her three steps to listening without judgment.  Key Takeaways If we haven't healed our past traumas or relationship issues, we project that onto our kids.  Be aware of your face, body language, and energy. They pick up on that. If you shut them down and judge them enough times, they will stop coming to you. CBA of listeningClarity:  What do they need from you? Advice or empathy. Breathe: Open your body language, open your mind, and calm your nervous system, so that you can be that open space for them to come and share Accept: Understand that they're learning how to process things in different ways. If you’re shocked by what they say or don’t’ know what to say, ask, “tell me more.” This puts the ball back in their court and gives you time to compose yourself to process whatever they've said. Beware of futurecasting, which is thinking if they’re doing this now, they’ll always do it. They're never going to get a job. They’re never going to talk to me again. Parenting teens can feel isolating. See outside support and help. You’re not alone.   Resources Mentioned in This Episode Elise’s free communication guide: https://www.eliseknox.com/communication  Dr. Cam’s Top 10 Secrets for Raising Teens: www.askdrcam.com/parentingtips   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others would appreciate the guidance and encouragement, please take a quick moment to rate and review. Reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

In this episode, I answer the following parent question: Nothing we do makes our daughter happy. Why can’t she just accept a comment, advice, suggestion without complaining and pushing back? How can I make her listen and accept what she is being told without an argument?    Key Takeaways Allow them to voice their opinions without retribution.  Rather than getting mad that they are resistant, get curious and find out why.  Model what it looks like to listen, by listening to them first.     Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to my podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please take a moment to rate and review.  This helps parents like you find the show. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.

In this episode, I provide tips for  addressing teen anger. This is in response to the following parent questions:  What is the best way to diffuse a teen who is in the middle of a temper flare-up?  How should a parent respond in the moment of frustration (both on the part of the parent and teen)?   Key Takeaways Your teen’s emotions/meltdowns are a response to their brain’s fire alarm alerting them that they are not safe and need to protect themselves. Understand the situation from their perspective. Why are they upset? Proactively decide how you are going to response in a way that brings the temperature down and clears the smoke. Find ways to prevent the need for blow ups and teach them strategies to express emotions more effectively and respectively.  Next time your teen’s fire alarm goes off, respond calmly and focus on what they need to feel safe.   Have a Question for Dr. Cam? Submit it via email. Send me a message on Facebook or Instagram.   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please take a moment to rate and review.  This helps parents like you find the show. Review on iTunes.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.   Schedule a FREE consult with Dr. Cam Want to know how Dr. Cam can help your family thrive? Grab a time at www.calldrcam.com.

In this episode, I’m joined by Jeff Otis, the founder of the personal leadership platform, Project OTY. Jeff is going to clue us in to why teens may resist taking accountability, how to encourage them to take more accountability, and how to help them uncover a sense of purpose and own their future.   Key Takeaways The three O’s: Own your time, own your education, and own your organization We need to acknowledge that we've got a generation of young adults growing up in a world that none of us have experienced. The speed at which information is coming at them is off the charts. It's becoming more difficult to take ownership and make decisions when it feels like the future is fuzzy and unsure. Help them build their roadmap to create their purpose. Shift the focus to what they want their world to look like five years from today. Define success. Create a visual representation of what success looks like. If you can see it, you start to believe it, and then you start taking those steps to achieve it.   One of the challenges we see in education is that it is very career focused. I think we're doing a disservice to young adults and teens by talking about picturing the rest of their life. That feels overwhelming.  Change doesn’t happen overnight, be a little bit patient. You're in the middle of what's happening and often you can get caught up reacting to what's happening. When it becomes frustrating, this is an opportunity to pause for a moment, step back and look at why it's happening. When we start to unpeel, we see the uncertainty and fears that need to be addressed.  There are four stages to learningUnconscious incompetence: You don't know what you don't know Conscious incompetence: You realize you don't know what you need to know. Conscious competence: You know what to do, but you still must think about it for a little bit. Unconscious competence: Everything's on a reflex.  Start exploring opportunities that are in alignment with your child’s unique strengths. Introduce them to different solutions and help them acknowledge and understand what their unique strengths are and how to leverage then today to move themselves forward. We encourage young adults to reach out to 10 people that they trust to be honest with them, and ask them, “How would you describe my unique strength?” What strengths above all others seem to come effortlessly for me? This does a few thingsIt’s an immediate confidence boost for the young adult.  They'll see strengths they may not have recognized in themselves.  They're developing a list of strengths they can leverage going forward.   New strengths are going to develop as we experience new things, but at every given point a young adult needs to be aware of what strengths they can leverage right now.  Accountability starts with young adults identifying their unique strengths and how they can leverage them. When they can imagine a future they are passionate to go build, they will start getting out of bed a lot earlier on their own.   “As a parent, it's vitally important to be aware that your child is a unique individual.”   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.   Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, YouTube, Google, Spotify. You can also subscribe from the podcast app on your mobile device or listen LIVE in my Private Facebook Group.   Leave an iTunes Review Ratings and reviews from my listeners are extremely valuable and greatly appreciated. They help this podcast rank higher on iTunes, which exposes the show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave a review on iTunes.

Episode Summary In this episode, I’m joined by sleep physician and youth psychiatrist Dr. Cara Ooi. Dr. Ooi is going to clue us in to why the teen years are a perfect storm for insomnia, the most common mistakes parents make when trying to get their teen’s sleep back on track and the three things we can do instead.     Key Takeaways The teen years create the perfect storm for insomnia. There is a natural delay in their body clock, which makes it difficult for them to fall asleep; they aren’t coping well with stress, which makes it challenging to unwind at night; they spend a lot of time hanging out on their beds, which creates an association with an awake alert state. Common mistake #1: Insisting teens get to bed too early. Their bodies aren't ready for sleep until 12 or one. If their bedtime is before that, they end up spending 2-3 hours in bed not sleeping. This can snowball into more anxiety and frustration and strengthens a negative association with their bed, which makes it even more difficult to sleep.  Common mistake #2: Don’t start by taking screens away. This creates conflict right before bed, which disrupts sleep more than the screens do. It also erodes connection, which means they’ll dig their heels in more. Common mistake #3: Trying to convince them by telling them the benefits of sleep. This tends to be counterproductive Tips to reset your teen’s sleep: Delay their bedtime to better match up with when they are actually sleepy, to retrain their association with their bed to being in calm, sleepy state and good sleep. Create a cozy nook. A place that is separate from their bed but provides the same comfort and privacy. This can be a fun project to do together.  Create a sleep kit to put next to their bed so they don’t default to staring at their phone if they wake up. Can include notebook and pen, book or magazine, coloring book. Minimize the amount of light in the room as much as possible. The darker the better. Meet your teen where they’re at. Find a reason to get better sleep that is important to them. For example, if they love video games, better sleep can improve their reaction time.   If you want to reset their sleep schedule, make small incremental changes to give their body the opportunity to adjust.   Resources Mentioned in This Episode Learn more about Dr. Ooi on her website and snag her free resources: The Parent’s Jumpstart Guide to Help Your Teen Sleep Better and I'm Exhausted but I Can't Sleep Webinar Tune into her podcast series: Find the Eight You can also connect with Dr. Ooi on Instagram + Tik Tok @decodeinsomnia I’d love to hear from you too! Send me a message on Facebook or Instagram.   Thanks for Listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it with a friend.   Subscribe to the Podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast right here on YouTube!

Disrespect, backtalk, and lying are just a few of the problematic teen behaviors many parents are trying to deal with. What do you do when you’ve tried everything, and nothing seems to work? That’s what we’re going to tackle in today’s episode. I’m joined by Kimball Lewis, the CEO of EmpoweringParents.com (@ParentingAdvice). In addition to his leadership and management roles, he contributes as an editor, a homeschooling expert, and a parent coach. Kimball is frequently interviewed by CBS News in Tampa Bay, Florida, for his expert parenting advice FREE STUFF! Dr. Cam’s Top 10 Secrets for Raising Teens: www.askdrcam.com/parentingtips Coupon code CAM10 good for $10 off the first month's subscription of The Total Transformation Online Package.   If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

Navigating divorce and stepparenting is challenging for everyone involved, but statistics show it’s particularly difficult for teen-aged children. Fortunately, there are things we can do to ease the transition and even thrive. Today I’m joined by authors of @ourhappydivorce Nikki DeBartolo and Ben Heldfond. Although their marriage has been over for nearly a decade, Nikki and Ben have learned how to create a happy life with each other and their new families. They are sharing their story in hopes of empowering and inspiring people to think differently about divorce, co-parenting, step-parenting, and what it means to put kids first. FREE STUFF! Dr. Cam’s Top 10 Secrets for Raising Teens: www.askdrcam.com/parentingtips If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

Is your teen’s fear of being around a lot of people, getting called on in class, or having to talk to someone new making it feel impossible to go to school or out in public? Are you worried that they are becoming too isolated but don’t know how to help? Then this episode is for you. I’m joined by Mark Metry, a 24-year-old mental health advocate, Forbes featured TEDx keynote speaker, host of the Social Anxiety Society podcast, and author of "Screw Being Shy.” Mark’s Kick Social Anxiety program helps people break free from anxiety by rewiring their brain, and today he’s going to give us some tips on how to best support our socially anxious teens. FREE STUFF! Dr. Cam’s Top 10 Secrets for Raising Teens: www.askdrcam.com/parentingtips If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

Did you know that almost half of our kids have been exposed to sexting by the time they were 14 and that number continues to grow? As a mom of a 15-year-old daughter that scares me. That’s why I’ve invited Sean Clifford, CEO and Founder of Canopy to join me today. A father of 4 young children, Sean founded Canopy in 2019 to protect children from pornography and help families take advantage of what’s good about the Internet without the bad. In this episode, Sean is teaching us how to help our teens navigate technology safely. FREE STUFF! Dr. Cam’s Top 10 Secrets for Raising Teens: www.askdrcam.com/parentingtips   If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

If your teen is miserable and making everyone around them miserable and you don’t know how to break them out of it, this episode is for you. Today I’m joined by Chris DT Gordon (@chrisdt.gordon.5), an international speaker, teacher, and survivor of the flesh-eating bacteria necrotizing fasciitis. After his recovery, this teacher from Minnesota chose to rise above his circumstances to help others. He created The Attitude of Gratitude (TAG), which helps people overcome their own “personal bacteria,” increase their positivity and resilience, and improve the lives of those around them. Chris strives to share TAG with young adults all over the world so they can achieve greatness on their own terms. FREE STUFF! Dr. Cam’s Top 10 Secrets for Raising Teens: www.askdrcam.com/parentingtips   If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

If you have an overachieving, stressed out teen who is crumbling under the weight of their own high expectations and self-inflicted pressure, this episode is for you. Today I’m joined by Teen Takeoff Coach Donovan Dreyer, who specializes in preparing highly driven teens to accomplish their lofty life goals. Through his organization Get Ready Coaching, Donovan helps overachieving students get clarity on what they truly want and minimize their constant need to be perfect at EVERYTHING. FREE STUFF! Talking to teens about their lofty goals: https://www.getreadycoaching.com Dr. Cam’s Top 10 Secrets for Raising Teens: www.askdrcam.com/parentingtips If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

I’ve been inviting several experts on recently to talk about Teen Anxiety. It’s something I see a lot in my practice, and the statistics support the growing problem. According to Pew Research three-in-ten teens say they feel tense or nervous about their day every or almost every day. Seven-in-ten say anxiety and depression is a major problem among people their age in the community where they live. And the #1 cause of teen anxiety according to teens is pressure to get good grades. Today I’m joined by Parent and Teen Coach, Dana Baker-Williams. Dana specializes in ADHD and Anxiety, which are often linked. Today Dana is going to provide us with some tips for helping us help our teens manage their stress and some strategies for fostering self-confidence and independence - the antidotes of anxiety. FREE STUFF! Mental Health Resources for Teens & Their Families: https://drcam.ck.page/mental-health-resources 8 Coping Skills to Mitigate Anxiety: https://www.parentinginreallife.org/anxiety   If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

Did you know that one out of three kids between the ages of 13 and 18 will find themselves in an abusive relationship this year? That statistic is terrifying to us parents, which is why I’ve invited Nenia Corcoran (@neniacorcoranauthor) to teach us what we need to know about Teen Dating Violence. Nenia combines her own experiences as a sexual assault survivor with her decade of training as a police officer to empower and educate young adults on toxic relationships, dating violence and consent. She also writes young adult fiction novels focused on raising awareness surrounding difficult topics teens often struggle to deal with. Today Nenia is going to provide us some tips and insight to help us protect our teens from dating violence and empower them to recognize abusive relationships and break free. FREE STUFF! Mental Health Resources for Teens & Their Families: https://drcam.ck.page/mental-health-resources If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

If your teen is stressed out trying to do it all but struggling to stay focused and motivated, this episode is for you. I’m joined by Oie Dobier, the founder of Project Who Am I (@projWhoAmI), is a mom of 2 teenagers and a nature loving, bubble tea fanatic. Her mission in life is to help people pay attention to their true self so they can intentionally fill their day with things that leverage their natural talents AND things that align to what’s important to their life. In this episode, Oie tells us how to prevent our perfectionist teens from falling into the “Stay Busy” trap and help them find their true passion, purpose, and focus. FREE STUFF! From Oie: Downloadable Career Ideas Guide: www.projectwhoami.com/career From Dr. Cam. 10 Secrets to Raising Teens: https://www.askdrcam.com/parentingtips If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

If you or your teen experiences days filled with anxiety and overwhelm, this episode is for you. I’m joined by George Kalantzis (@Theartoftoughtransitions), author of NOWHERE TO GO, combat veteran, coach, and dad. He empowers people to overcome the toughest days of their lives. Outside of coaching and writing, you can find him hiking and eating ice cream with his daughter. Today, George is going to help us better understand how anxiety works and teach us some ways to get over our overwhelm under.

If your teen is struggling with poor body image, body dysmorphia, or an eating disorder, this episode is for you. I’m joined by Jillian Walsh, the founder, Clinical Director and Nova Scotia Team Lead at Change Creates Change Eating Disorder Care (@changecreateschange). Jillian is both a Registered Dietitian and a Registered Psychotherapist. For the past 8 years, she has been helping children and adolescents living with eating disorders and supporting parents through their children’s eating disorder recovery. Today, Jillian is going to tell us how to detect if our child has an eating disorder and how to model a positive body image and relationship with food for our teens FREE STUFF! From Jillian: Webinar for parents who are worried that their child may have an eating disorder. November 9th at 7 pm EST. Register at: https://landing.changecreateschange.com/webinar From Dr. Cam. 10 Secrets to Raising Teens: https://www.askdrcam.com/parentingtips If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

If you’re struggling with your teen’s behavior and nothing seems to work, this episode is for you. I’m joined by Adele Spraggon, an award-winning author, a thought leader, international speaker and trainer. She has been awarded the 2020, Woman of Inspiration Award, and in 2021, she was recognized as the Top Behavioural Expert of the Year. Her book Shift: 4 Steps to Personal Empowerment has won three awards and is sweeping the globe, transforming how people are setting and achieving their goals with her repatterning technique. Today, Adele is going to teach us how to impact our teen’s behaviors (and our own) by upgrading the underlying brain patterns. FREE STUFF! From Adele. Get a copy of her book @ www.shift4steps.com  (just pay shipping). From Dr. Cam. 10 Secrets to Raising Teens: https://www.askdrcam.com/parentingtips If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

If your teen seems out of control and you’re worried about their risky behavior and questionable choices, this episode is for you. I’m joined by Michael Unbroken, author of the best-selling book Think Unbroken. Michael is a coach, mentor, and educator for adult survivors of child abuse. Michael also hosts The Michael Unbroken podcast, teaches at Think Unbroken Academy and is on a mission to end generational trauma. Today, Michael is going to give us a peak into the mind of a troubled teen and teach us how to connect with them in a way that helps them thrive. FREE STUFF! From Michael Unbroken. PDF copy of Think Unbroken: Understanding and Overcoming Childhood Trauma. From Dr. Cam. 10 Secrets to Raising Teens: https://www.askdrcam.com/parentingtips If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

Want to teach your teen how to speak up and advocate for themselves in a responsible way? Then this episode is for you. I’m joined by Adrienne Waller, the owner of Worldwide Educator, an education consulting company focused on empowering educators to own their instructional genius while activating students. For the past 15 years, Adrienne has been working with educators across the US and the world, including Qatar, China, and she’s currently an Assistant Principal in the Cayman Islands. Today, Adrienne is going to share with us how help our teens build self-advocacy skills. FREE STUFF! From today’s guest. Talking to teens: https://mailchi.mp/4f4d364bb201/conversations-with-teens From Dr. Cam. 10 Secrets to Raising Teens: https://www.askdrcam.com/parentingtips If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

If you’re feeling disconnected with your teen this episode is for you. I’m talking Melanie Prather Studer the author of COLLEGE BOUND The Ultimate List of Conversions to Help Your Teen Through High School and the blog Parenting High Schoolers where she shares real world ideas and solutions for raising teens in today’s world. Today, Melanie is going to share with us how to create a stronger connection with our teens – even when it feels like they’re pulling away. FREE STUFF! From today’s guest: “Control What You Can" Printable. https://www.parentinghighschoolers.com/opt-in/podcast From Dr. Cam: 10 Secrets to Raising Teens. https://www.askdrcam.com/parentingtips If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

If you fear appearing weak and vulnerable in front of people—especially your kids—this episode is for you. Today I’m talking with Fatima Oliver (@fatima.oliver.79656), wife, mother, and author of the newly released book "The Prescription is in the Dirt" As a Transformational Coach & Speaker, Fatima’s mission is to help people heal from childhood trauma, heartbreak, abuse, and horrible decision-making using her "Baby Step" approach. Today, Fatima is going to share with us the power of vulnerability and how it can make us stronger parents. FREE STUFF! Dr. Cam’s 10 Secrets to Raising Teens: www.askdrcam.com/parentingtips   If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

In this episode…If your teen is struggling in school or unmotivated to even try, this episode is for you. Today I’m talking with Dr. Norrine Russell (@drnorrinerussell) the founder of Russell Coaching. Dr. Russell’s passion for providing support to frustrated students and weary parents is fueled by her own experience of raising two neurologically atypical children with diagnosis of autism, mood disorders, ADHD, giftedness, and learning differences. Dr. Russell knows firsthand the exhaustion parents face as they seek solutions for their out-of-the-box children. In today’s episode Dr. Russell is going to give us some tips on how to best support and encourage our teens. FREE STUFF! Listeners who mention this facebook live segment will receive 20% off the first three months of student coaching with Dr. Russell. Dr. Cam’s Top 10 Tips for Parenting Teens: www.askdrcam.com/parentingtips If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

If your teen’s video game obsession is driving you mad, this episode is for you! Today I’m talking with Michael Chang, CEO and Founder @VGCDAcademy and author of the international best-selling book "Video Games Demystified: The Trifecta of Creators, Athletes, and Ecosystem in a Thriving Industry." As a former marketing leader at Electronic Arts and RockYou, Michael has managed video games generating over $250 million. His company, VGCD Academy, teaches young people the science and business of video games. Michael is going to teach us how to leverage the love of gaming to inspire teens to become leaders, entrepreneurs, scientists, mathematicians, artists, and more. FREE STUFF! The first 25 parents who visit Michael’s website (https://www.vgcd.academy/contact-us/) will get a FREE PDF version of his book. Dr. Cam’s Top 10 Tips for Parenting Teens: www.askdrcam.com/parentingtips   If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

If your teen is struggling to cope and you’re struggling to help them, this episode is for you. Today I’m talking to Johnny Crowder (@johnnyxcrowder), Founder & CEO of Cope Notes, about how to combat compassion fatigue and connect with your teen more deeply. Johnny is a 28-year-old suicide/abuse survivor, TEDx speaker, touring musician, and founder of Cope Notes, a text-based mental health platform that provides daily support to users in nearly 100 countries around the world. Armed with 10 years of clinical treatment, a psychology degree from UCF, and a decade of peer support and public advocacy through NAMI, Johnny’s firsthand experience with mental illness equips him to provide insight into the pains of hardship with authenticity and wit. FREE STUFF! • Use coupon code TEEN10 for 10% off any Cope Notes gift subscription for your teen • Dr. Cam’s Top 10 Tips for Parenting Teens: www.askdrcam.com/parentingtips   If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

If you find parenting more frustrating than fun, this episode is for you. Today I’m talking with Joey Mascio, Teen Life Coach at Firmly Founded (@joey.firmlyfoundedcoaching) about how to improve your relationship with your teen without changing them and how find more joy together. Joey is a certified life coach who helps teens and young adults stop letting stress, procrastination, and self-doubt suck all the fun out of being successful. He is a former middle school teacher who spent four years in the on campus suspension room where he started coaching teens. He also has professional training in performance, improv, and comedy. FREE STUFF! 30-day free trial of the Firmly Founded Teen, a coaching membership designed just for teens @ www.firmlyfounded.com/teen Top 10 Tips for Parenting Teens: www.askdrcam.com/parentingtips If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

If you’re struggling to connect with your teen, you’ll want to listen to this episode. Today Raquel and I are talking about the three keys to connecting with your teen: communication, compassion, and listening. Raquel is the Founder of RAQVISION, Creator of Raq The Boat Show, Personal Brand Strategist, Mental Health Advocate and Youth Advocate. FREE STUFF! Top 10 Tips for Parenting Teens: www.askdrcam.com/parentingtips If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

Today I’m talking with Norman W. Holden, the Author of Do Better! How One Father Gained Wisdom from Texting His Teen Daughter. Norm is not a therapist, licensed professional or counselor. He describes himself as a down-to earth everyday man, husband, and father of two, who has earned his hard-knocks degree in parenting. Norm and I are talking about: How to use texting to connect with your teen. How dads can strengthen their relationship with their daughters. How to help teens navigate technology safely.   FREE STUFF! From Dr. Cam: Top 10 Tips for Parenting Teens: www.askdrcam.com/parentingtips If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!

Today I’m talking with Joy Marchese (@positivedisciplineUK), a global educational consultant, author, keynote speaker, parent coach, and emotional architect. For 25 years Joy has worked with thousands of children, parents, teachers, and professionals to help foster a happy and flourishing environment in the home, in schools, and in the workplace. Joy is the Founder of Positive Discipline UK and co-author of Positive Discipline for Today’s Busy (& Overwhelmed) Parent. She runs a successful global educational consultancy and coaching practice and develops SEL courses and products to teach social-emotional skills in homes, schools, and multiple organizations throughout the world. Joy and I are talking about: How to talk so your teens will listen The importance of Connection BEFORE Correction How to be kind AND firm at the same time   FREE STUFF! From Joy: How not to lose your SH*T with your kids https://www.joymarchese.com/get-the-guide From Dr. Cam: Top 10 Tips for Parenting Teens: www.askdrcam.com/parentingtips   If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

Today I’m talking with bestselling author and executive coach Dr. Lois Frankel. The name Dr. Lois Frankel has become practically synonymous with empowering women in the workplace. She is the author of the bestselling business bible for women, Nice Girls Don't Get the Corner Office, and other books in the "nice girls" series. Lois is a pioneer in the field of executive coaching and a sought-after international keynote speaker. She has now turned toward helping parents to raise self-confident daughters and is working on a book on the topic. An avid photographer, Lois sells her work at her website www.loisfrankelphotography.com and gives the proceeds to a nonprofit she started that helps working women who live at the poverty level when they encounter medical challenges. Dr. Frankel and I are talking about: The key challenges facing parents raising girls today. Best practices for addressing those challenges. How to be a better role model for your daughter.

Today I’m talking with parent coach Patricia Wilkinson (@authorpatriciawilkinson) Patricia is a mom of two kids who had "challenges" they now use as strengths in successful relationships and careers. Founder of Brain Stages Parenting, coauthor of Brain Stages: How to Raise Smart, Confident Kids and Have Fun Doing It, veteran teacher, and science nerd, Trish shares kid-tested, research-supported tips to raise successful humans in our complicated world. Patricia and I are talking about how to problem solve WITH your teen to get buy in when an issue needs to be addressed. FREE STUFF! Free mini course: Enjoy Your Kids Through Problem Solving (use with coupon code: 2021BESTYEARYET) Dr. Cam’s Top 10 Tips for Parenting Teens: www.askdrcam.com/parentingtips   If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

Today I’m talking with Dr. Tamara Soles, Child Psychologist and Parent Coach. Dr. Tamara is a psychologist, parent coach, and founder of The Secure Child Center for Families and Children She’s also the mom of twins who present everyday opportunities to live what she’s practiced with families for over 15 years- that harnessing the power of connection helps children thrive! Dr. Tamara is the creator of the online parenting course, No More Power Struggles which opens its doors again soon. Currently, you can hear Dr. Tamara on her podcast- This Hour has 50 minutes. Dr. Tamara and I are talking about… Why punishment/reward system doesn’t work and what to do instead How to encourage problem-solving and allowing the space for mistakes The importance of living by a set of defined values   FREE STUFF! 5 Hacks to Reset your Kid's Nervous System: https://drtamarasoles.com/hacks 7 Secrets to Motivating Teens: www.askdrcam.com/motivateteens If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

In this episode, Dr. Cam talks with intuitive life coach Murielle Fellous. Murielle was raised in France and now resides in Las Vegas where she raised three kids as a single mom. For years she coached people on relationships but bouncing back from depression when her kids became teenagers and started acting out was so painful that she redirected her focus. She is now helping single moms with teens to overcome their challenges and prevent the spiraling down into negative emotions, anxiety and/or depression.   Murielle and Dr. Cam talk about: How single moms can parent with more ease and less anxiety Regulating emotions with tapping How to lean into our power as a single mom   FREE STUFF! EFT Anchoring Points: https://www.coparentingwiththeuniverse.com/eft.html 7 Secrets to Motivating Teens at www.askdrcam.com/motivateteens   If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

Today I’m talking with Todd Nesloney (@toddnesloney), award-winning teacher, principal, and author of numerous books including Kids Deserve It!, Stories From Webb, Sparks in the Dark, and his newest book When Kids Lead. Todd is the Director of Culture and Strategic Leadership for the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA). He hosts the podcast #TellYourStory and has created two online courses about building Campus & Classroom Culture. Todd has been working his entire career to help grow students into leaders and world-changers. Todd and I are talking about: How parents can nurture their teen’s leadership skills What teens need most from us to succeed FREE STUFF! Grab my free guide “7 Secrets to Motivating Teens” at www.askdrcam.com/motivateteens If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

Today I’m talking with THE MOST Freaking amazing life coach for parents of teens Ben Pugh. He told me to say that, but I agree he’s pretty awesome. Ben is a former teenage knucklehead who accidentally lit his school bus on fire. All the adults in his life told him he ruined his life. He went on to become a teacher, turn around high school principal for 5 years, a foster parent for 10 years, and is now changing the lives of parents and teens all over as the go-to life coach for parents of teens. Ben and I are talking about: The role of shame and fear in parenting and how to overcome it. The magic of leading by example and how to do it. FREE STUFF! Grab my free guide “7 Secrets to Motivating Teens” at www.askdrcam.com/motivateteens If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

In this episode, Dr. Cam talks with Dr. Ian Chen (@chenmedimo), an adolescent medicine expert and researcher.  Dr. Chen’s research combines psychology, medicine, neuroscience and mathematical modelling together in order to understand the development of the adolescent brain and to help young people become more resilient. He continues to research brain maturation using EEG and brain imaging techniques as part of the research and development at the new mental health institution that he is heading, Chen Medimo Corp. Dr. Chen and Dr. Cam talk about: What brain imaging technologies show us about brain maturation The difference between mental health and mental performance  The impact of technology on the developing brain and its social ramifications. How to use this information to build resilience and detect warning signs.  FREE STUFF! Dr. Chen is offering a promotion to listeners on his website www.chenmedimo.org. Use promo code: CMCDRCAM Grab my free guide “7 Secrets to Motivating Teens” at www.askdrcam.com/motivateteens If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

In this episode, Dr. Cam talks with Jesse Giunta Rafeh, international best-selling author of Life Launch: A Roadmap to an Extraordinary Adulthood. Jesse is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and certified success coach. She opened her private practice 15 years ago at age 26 working primarily young adults. Giunta is also a TEDx speaker. Her book, Life Launch, is a 360-degree guide to transitioning successfully into adulthood. It includes profound yet practical strategies for coping with anxiety and depression, creating an ideal career, and sustaining healthy relationships. Jesse and Dr. Cam about: How to be strategic about the timing of conversations. How to speak logically and succinctly. How to make it a negotiation not an ultimatum. FREE STUFF! Jesse Giunta Rafeh will offer free copies of her book Life Launch to the first 10 people who visit her website - https://www.jesse-giunta-rafeh.com/contact   Grab my free guide “7 Secrets to Motivating Teens” at www.askdrcam.com/motivateteens If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

Today I’m talking with Susan Borison, the founder and editor of Your Teen Media (@YourTeen) Susan went to law school to prepare herself for negotiating with five teenagers. In the process, she needed to bolster her skills, so she founded Your Teen Media. In the past 14 years, YTM has helped countless parents also searching for the tools and advice to be the best parent they can be. Susan and I are talking about: How to find joy with your teenagers  How to develop more compassion for yourself How to learn what's worth the fight and what's worth turning a blind eye FREE STUFF! Grab my free guide “7 Secrets to Motivating Teens” at www.askdrcam.com/motivateteens If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

Today I’m talking with author and leader in school reform, Dr. Megan Sweet (@Your3Eyes). Dr. Sweet has almost 30 years of experience as a classroom teacher and school administer and for the past 15 years has been a leader in system-wide school reform. Her book is “An Education Guide for Using Your 3 Eyes.” Dr. Sweet is also the cohost of the education-based podcast The Awakening Educator, which covers topics such as equity, trauma-informed approaches to instruction, school lunch programs, and more.  Dr. Sweet and I are talking about: How to address our worry about academics and grades How to help our teens process the constant changes How to help our teens thrive in the changing school environment FREE STUFF! Grab my free guide “7 Secrets to Motivating Teens” at www.askdrcam.com/motivateteens If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

In this epsidode, Dr. Cam talks with Parenting Life Coach Deborah Ann Davis (@mommeetupforconfidentgirls) Deborah is also an author, certified personal trainer, teacher, and mother. Her job is to help you recognize what you’re doing right as a parent, and then add supplemental strategies. Here books, “How To Keep Your Daughter From Slamming the Door” and “How To Get Your Happy On,” are available everywhere.  Deborah and Dr. Cam talk about: How the teenage brain differs from an adult brain.  Why your teenage kids make the bad choices they do, and why we made bad choices when we were their age. How to deal with The Inevitables and The Non-Negotiables when parenting a teenage brain. FREE STUFF! Get a free digital copy of “How To Get Your Happy On” at www.DeborahAnnDavis.com Grab my free guide “7 Secrets to Motivating Teens” at www.askdrcam.com/motivateteens If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

In this epsidoe, Dr. Cam talks with Wendy Weinberger, President & Co-founder of Illuminos Academic Coaching & Tutoring (@IlluminosCoaching) Illuminos is a passion project born from Wendy’s experiences growing up with numerous family members with ADHD. When a child close to her received the same diagnosis, she not only worked hard to help him overcome the many challenges but decided to bring her cousin Evan’s academic coaching business to the DC area to help students in her community with similar struggles.   Wendy and Dr. Cam talk about: How to help our teens prepare for the school year What executive functioning skills teens need to succeed How to help them establish healthy habits with minimal power struggles. FREE STUFF! Grab my free guide “7 Secrets to Motivating Teens” at www.askdrcam.com/motivateteens. If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

Today I’m talking with Jake Rubin, Co-Founder of MamaZen  Jake Y. Rubin, M.A, is a Board-Certified Hypnotherapist, a former university professor of psychology, and a recognized expert in hypnosis and hypnotherapy with degrees in Psychology from UCLA and the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University. He is also the co-founder of the #1 Mindful Parenting app, MamaZen which he created to empower moms all over the world to be CALMER, HAPPIER & HEALTHIER and raise happier kids! Jake and I are talking about: The importance of staying mindful and calm as a parent. How to use hypnotherapy to stay mindful and calm. How to use hypnotherapy to calm our teens.   FREE STUFF! 30 days of free access to the MamaZen app (@mamazenapp). Grab my free guide “7 Secrets to Motivating Teens” at www.askdrcam.com/motivateteens.   If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!

Today I’m talking with Personal Transformation Coach and author of the “Calling All Heroes” series, Christian de la Huerta. With 30 years of experience, Christian is a sought-after spiritual teacher and leading voice in the breathwork community. He has traveled the world offering inspiring and transformational retreats combining psychological and spiritual teachings with lasting and life-changing effects. An award-winning, critically acclaimed author, he has spoken at numerous universities and conferences and on the TEDx stage. His new book, Awakening the Soul of Power, was described by multiple Grammy Award–winner Gloria Estefan as “a balm for the soul of anyone searching for truth and answers to life’s difficult questions.” Christian and I are talking about: The difference between egoic power (control) and soulful power (guidance). How we can use our power to connect with our teens and avoid power struggles. How to use our power to communicate more effectively with our teens    FREE STUFF! Get a free guided meditation, power practices, and a chapter from Christian’s book at https://soulfulpower.com/. Grab my free guide “7 Secrets to Motivating Teens” at askdrcam.com/motivateteens.   If you found this episode valuable, please take a quick moment to comment and share. This helps other parents like you find the show. Thank you!!