What happens when a parent faces a life-threatening diagnosis while raising a young family? In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Marisa Peters—cancer survivor, mother, and founder of Be Seen—to explore how her journey through illness reshaped her approach to parenting, mental health, and personal growth.

Peters discusses navigating emotional turmoil, fostering connection in times of uncertainty, and raising resilient kids amidst adversity.

The conversation also dives into the role of communication, the importance of consent and awareness in relationships, and how discipline and vulnerability can coexist in the chaos of real life.

Takeaways:

• Navigating the complexities of parenting while facing health challenges requires a delicate balance of discipline and communication, especially when children are involved.
• Marisa Peters emphasizes the importance of understanding hormonal changes and emotional health during significant life transitions like illness and motherhood.
• Social media plays a crucial role in shaping our perception of independence and consent within relationships, particularly among young adults and teens.
• Experiencing adversity can lead to profound insights about ourselves and the power of advocating for our health amidst the chaos of family life.
• Building resilience in children through open discussions about health issues fosters emotional intelligence and can mitigate the impacts of bullying and stigma.
• Ultimately, prioritizing mental and physical health is essential for parents to effectively support their children during challenging times.

Links referenced in this episode:

• beseen.care
• whereparentstalk.com
• from carpools to chemo

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Be Seen
• Carl's Jr.
• Sara Bareilles
• The Chicks
• Rascal Flatts
• Lil Nas X

This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience.

You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.

Links referenced in this episode:

• whereparentstalk.com

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino is joined by Doug Bolton, clinical psychologist, educator, and author, for an in-depth conversation on the complex realities of parenting in today’s world.

Bolton sheds light on the rising rates of youth anxiety and stress—and how well-meaning parental behaviours can sometimes contribute to these challenges.

The discussion explores the critical role of emotional regulation, the value of community, and the importance of prioritizing connection over competition.

The conversation also examines the influence of digital culture, device use, and social media on youth relationships and the evolving understanding of consent.

Bolton offers insights to help parents navigate the delicate balance between discipline, open communication, and fostering independence—all in support of their children’s emotional and mental well-being.

Takeaways:

• The unprecedented levels of anxiety and depression in youth today can be partly attributed to the pressures of academic achievement and the competitive nature of modern schooling.
• Effective parenting requires a focus on emotional regulation and building connected relationships rather than relying on traditional incentives and punishments.
• Creating a sense of belonging within communities is crucial for children's mental health, serving as a buffer against stress and trauma.
• Parents must prioritize their own emotional health to model and encourage resilience and coping skills in their children.
• The impact of social media and device usage on children's mental health is significant, underscoring the need for open communication and understanding around consent and relationships.
• Encouraging independence in children is vital, but it should be balanced with the need for support and guidance to navigate the challenges of adolescence.

Links referenced in this episode:

• whereparents talk.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• North Shore Academy
• Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
• Baby Einstein
• Dan Pink
• Bruce Perry
• Stuart Shanker
• Ross Green
• Stuart Ablon
• Teresa Barker
• Susie Wise

This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience.

You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino explores the profound impact that grandparents and the elderly can have on the younger generation, with author, Isabel Tom.

Tom, draws from her own experiences growing up in a multi-generational home to illustrate how these connections foster resilience, empathy, and a deeper understanding of life's complexities in children.

The conversation examines the importance of communication and discipline in bridging generational gaps, while also tackling societal perceptions of aging and the emotional health benefits that come from nurturing these bonds.

With the rising numbers of seniors in our communities, the discussion unpacks how parents can actively facilitate meaningful interactions between their children and grandparents, ensuring that the wisdom and love of the elderly are cherished and appreciated.

The discussion uncovers the lessons learned from aging, the power of consent in relationships, and the essential role of independence in both physical and emotional health.

Links referenced in this episode:

• whereparentstalk.com
• valueofwrinkes.com

Understanding the impact of imposter syndrome on youth is crucial to navigate their developmental journey. In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, Lianne Castelino dives unpacks how early childhood experiences and family dynamics can foster feelings of inadequacy, leading children to question their abilities and worth with Dr. Richard Orbé-Austin.

A licensed psychologist, executive coach, speaker and author, sheds light on the intricate relationship between parenting styles and the prevalence of imposter syndrome.

Communication and discipline play pivotal roles in shaping a child's self-perception, especially in a world increasingly influenced by social media and academic pressures.

The discussion explores practical strategies to help children embrace their independence while fostering a healthy emotional and mental state, free from the shackles of self-doubt.

Takeaways:

• Imposter syndrome is not a mental health disorder but a prevalent phenomenon affecting 70% of people at some point in their lives.
• Understanding the impact of parental roles in childhood can help address imposter syndrome early on.
• The distinctions between low self-esteem and imposter syndrome are crucial for effective communication with our children.
• Toxic achievement culture and parenting styles can significantly influence the development of imposter syndrome in young adults.
• Encouraging independence in children while fostering healthy discipline can mitigate feelings of inadequacy.
• Promoting open communication about mental health can empower children to confront and overcome imposter syndrome.

This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience.

In this podcast, we explore the impact of hormonal changes, device usage, and social media on discipline, communication, and independence.

You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.

Links referenced in this episode:

• whereparentstalk.com

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino delves into the intricate balance of parenting while navigating the tumultuous landscape of mental health and public service, with Canada's Minister of Mental Health and Addictions.. The Honourable Ya'ara Saks, Associate Minister of Health, shares her personal insights and professional experiences.

She highlights the challenges parents face in fostering open dialogue with their children, especially in an era filled with social media noise and misinformation.

Saks reflects on her dual role as a public figure and a single mom to two teenage daughters, emphasizing the importance of creating safe spaces for conversations about mental health.

She reveals how her children often describe the world as a 'dumpster fire', prompting a deeper exploration of how parents can provide reassurance and understanding in these complex times. By focusing on building trust and open communication, Saks believes that parents can empower their children to express themselves and navigate their feelings more comfortably.

The discussion supports a greater understanding of the current mental health landscape, the resilience of youth, and the critical role parents play in supporting their children through these challenges.

Takeaways:

• Navigating parenting in today's noisy environment requires discipline and effective communication with our children.
• Understanding the impacts of social media on our children's mental and physical health is crucial for modern parenting.
• Building independence in our kids involves teaching boundaries and the importance of consent in relationships.
• Addressing bullying and fostering emotional health in our children must be prioritized in today's digital age.
• Parents need to engage with their children's worlds—both virtual and real—to support their mental health effectively.
• Investing in youth mental health services is essential for equipping young people with tools to navigate life's challenges.

This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience.

In this podcast, we explore the impact of hormonal changes, device usage, and social media on discipline, communication, and independence.

You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.

Links referenced in this episode:

• whereparentstalk.com

The tumultuous waters of parenting tweens and teens can often feel like trying to keep a ship afloat in a storm. In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, Lianne Castelino delves into the significance of mindfulness and intentional communication as crucial tools in fostering strong relationships with our adolescents --- with her guest Kristen Manieiri.

Maneiri, a conscious living coach, shares her insights on how hormonal changes during these years can lead to emotional upheaval, both for parents and children. We explore the delicate balance of maintaining independence while ensuring our kids feel supported in their emotional health, particularly in the face of bullying and the pressures of social media.

By emphasizing the importance of discipline and consent in relationships, we aim to equip parents with practical strategies for nurturing open communication and healthier dynamics in this challenging stage of development.

Takeaways:

• Mindfulness is key for parents to navigate their child's hormonal changes and emotional health, fostering better communication.
• Establishing rituals can enhance connections with tweens and teens during their journey to independence and self-discovery.
• The interplay of device usage and social media can affect mental health; parents should engage in these discussions with their children.
• Practicing consent in relationships is crucial, helping kids understand boundaries and respect in their interactions.
• Creating a supportive environment helps prevent bullying and promotes emotional and mental well-being among adolescents.
• Parents should model mindfulness to encourage their children to communicate openly about difficult topics, fostering trust.

This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience.

In this podcast, we explore the impact of hormonal changes, device usage, and social media on discipline, communication, and independence.

You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.

Links referenced in this episode:

• whereparentstalk.com
• kristenmanieri.com

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Dr. Jeannine Jannot, school psychologist, educator, academic coach and mother of three about the often negative impact of the achievement culture and how parents can support kids who may experience it. The subject is the focus of Dr. Jannot's first book, 'The Disintegrating Student: Struggling But Smart, Falling Apart, and How to Turn It Around'.

Navigating the complexities of parenting often requires a leadership mindset, especially in our digital age where device usage and social media play pivotal roles in our teens' lives.

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino delves into how parents can cultivate discipline and effective communication while addressing the emotional and physical health of their children with leadership consultant Valerie Cockrell.

Cockerell brings a wealth of experience from her roles in leadership and motherhood, offering insights on transferable skills that can enhance both parenting and professional environments.

She emphasizes the importance of consent in relationships and how to help our teens manage their device usage to safeguard their mental health.

This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience.

In this podcast, we explore the impact of hormonal changes, device usage, and social media on discipline, communication, and independence.

You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.

Links referenced in this episode:

• whereparentstalk.com

Takeaways:

• Understanding the impact of hormonal changes on teenagers is crucial for effective parenting and leadership.
• Setting clear expectations at home can significantly enhance communication and reduce misunderstandings with teens.
• Balancing device usage with physical and emotional health is essential for managing teen mental health effectively.
• Leadership skills practiced at home can translate into the workplace, fostering better team dynamics and communication.
• High screen time can negatively impact teen mental health, making it vital for parents to monitor and regulate usage.
• Promoting independence while teaching discipline is a delicate balancing act for parents navigating today's complex social media landscape.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Disney
• Disney Institute
• Disney Cruise Line
• Disneyland Paris
• Walt Disney World
• Epcot

This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience.

In this podcast, we explore the impact of hormonal changes, device usage, and social media on discipline, communication, and independence.

You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.

Links referenced in this episode:

• whereparentstalk.com

In this week's episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, Lianne Castelino speaks to Chantal Vallerand, Executive Director of Drug Free Kids Canada and mother of two teens about how to talk to kids about drug, alcohol and substance use, misuse and addiction.