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

On this episode of theWhere Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks with Jenny Perez, entrepreneur, mother and founder of Unplugged an organization whose mission is to raise awareness about the impact of smartphones and social media on children.

Perez shares her insights on how constant device use can affect physical health, emotional well-being, and family communication, while also contributing to challenges such as bullying and social isolation. Drawing from both research and lived experience, Perez discusses the benefits of delaying smartphone access until at least age 14 and emphasizes the importance of consent and independence in young...

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Annie Brock and Heather Hundley—seasoned educators and co-authors of the newly revised The Growth Mindset Coach.

The conversation explores how this simple yet transformative approach can reshape parenting, teaching, and the way children see themselves.

They reveal practical ways parents can nurture growth at home: celebrating effort over outcomes, modelling curiosity, encouraging independence, and turning mistakes into learning opportunities.

The conversation also dives into some of the most pressing challenges families face today, from managing device use and na...

Adolescence is often described as turbulent—but in the digital age, the waves are higher and the currents stronger.

In this week’s Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks with bestselling author, mental health advocate, journalist and mother of five, Rachel Kelly (The Gift of Teenagers: Connect More, Worry Less) about the forces shaping today’s teens: hormonal changes, relentless screen time, and the pressures of a hyper-connected world.

The discussion examines the tightrope parents walk—encouraging independence while enforcing discipline—and doesn’t shy away from pressing issues like bullying, consent, and online relat...

Estrangement between parents and adult children is more common than many realize — affecting an estimated 26% of adults aged 18 to 40. In this episode of theWhere Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino talks with Catherine Hickem, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, psychotherapist, founder of Parenting Adult Children, author and mom, about why these painful breakups happen and how to repair them.

Hickem emphasizes the importance of discipline and self-awareness in fostering healthy connections, while also addressing the emotional and mental health implications of estrangement.

The conversation unpackes the critical role of consent in relationships and the impact of bu...

Balancing the needs of aging parents while supporting young adult children is no easy task—and for millions in the sandwich generation, it’s a daily reality.

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino dives into the realities of the sandwich generation—those balancing the care of aging parents while supporting young adult children with guest Dr. Shirley Davis.

A seasoned HR leader, global workforce expert, best selling author, podcaster, entrepreneur, CEO of SDS Global Enterprises and mom of one, Davis is also part of the sandwich generation. She shares hard-e...

First love can feel all-consuming—especially for teens navigating overwhelming emotions, identity, and digital pressure all at once.

In this episode of Where Parents Talk, host Lianne Castelino sits down with acclaimed journalist, professor, and author Lisa A. Phillips, whose book "First Love: Guiding Teens Through Relationships and Heartbreak" explores the emotional rollercoaster of teen romance.

The conversation unpacks the deep impact of first love and heartbreak on adolescent mental health—and how today’s always-connected world is shaping those experiences in new, often challenging ways.

What role should parents play?

How do...

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Ted Dintersmith, education disruptor, former venture capitalist, and author of Aftermath: The Math You Wish You Took. The discussion explores the gap between traditional math education and the real-world skills students actually need to succeed.

Dintersmith distills the status quo by emphasizing the importance of creativity, critical thinking, and practical application. The conversation also delves into broader parenting concerns—including emotional and mental health, social media usage, bullying, and the importance of consent—showing how these complex issues connect back to how kids lear...

In today’s episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino delves into the findings of educational experts Jenny Anderson and Rebecca Winthrop, authors of 'The Disengaged Teen.' They share their insights on the various modes of learning—Passenger, Achiever, Resistor, and Explorer—and how understanding these can empower parents to better support their children. Through a blend of qualitative and quantitative research, the authors share the importance of fostering an environment where curiosity thrives and students regain their independence in learning.

Anderson and Winthrop explore actionable tips for parents to help their teens naviga...

The tween and teen years can feel like emotional whiplash — one minute you're managing mood swings, the next you're untangling tech rules or talking boundaries.

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino interview Bailey Gaddis — certified parenting coach, doula, hypnotherapist, and mom of two — to help bring calm, confidence, and customization to the parenting journey.

The discussion unpacks how to:

Parenting today often feels like navigating a storm without a map. In this powerful episode, Where Parents Talk host Lianne Castelino speaks with award-winning journalist and author Melinda Wenner Moyer about her latest book, "Hello Cruel World: Science-Based Strategies for Raising Terrific Kids in Terrifying Times."

Together, they explore how parents can help their children thrive amid today’s most pressing challenges—from climate anxiety and social media pressures to hormonal shifts and mental health struggles.

You’ll learn:

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks with author, columnist, and mother of two Pam Lobley about planning a slow summer and teh benefits of embracing boredom.

Lobley, a former actres and comedian discusses the pressure parents feel to keep their kids constantly busy—and what happens when we stop.

She shares her personal story of parental burnout and the bold decision to give her children an “unstructured summer”—what she dubbed a “summer of rot.” What began as a break from overscheduling turned into a transformative experience for her family.<...

What does it mean to be an engaged father today? In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino explores the evolving role of dads in raising emotionally grounded boys amidst toxic masculinity, social media, and shifting family dynamics, with guest Drew Soleyn.

A leadership coach, speaker, Director of Dad Central Ontario and founder of Connected Dads, Soleyn unpacks the real challenges fathers face, from managing hormonal changes and digital distractions to fostering independence and navigating peer pressure. Soleyn, a father of five emphasizes why emotional well-being, healthy communication, and modelling consent are key...

Making the leap from high school to university is a major life shift—for both students and parents.

This transition can be a daunting experience particularly considering the myriad challenges posed by increased independence, academic pressures, and social dynamics.

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks with Dr. Michael De Robertis, Professor Emeritus, York University who spent more than 35 years teaching astrophysics and astronomy.

The discussion explores the key differences between high school and university, highlighting the importance of time management, discipline, and effective communication.

Ta...

Feeding challenges aren’t just for toddlers—many parents find themselves facing a new kind of mealtime stress when their kids become tweens and teens. In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino is joined by Dena Kelly, a licensed counsellor, board-certified behaviour analyst, and paediatric feeding therapist, who specializes in helping families navigate the emotional and physical toll of picky eating in older children.

Kelly shares evidence-based strategies for tackling picky eating, while unpacking how adolescence, hormonal shifts, social pressures, and parental communication all play a role in shaping a child’s relati...

How can parents raise strong, confident daughters in a world still shaped by sexism?

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks with Dr. Jo-Ann Finkelstein, clinical psychologist, award-winning author, and mother of two, about how to support girls' self-esteem, mental health, and identity development in today’s social climate.

The conversation explores how sexism subtly influences girls’ daily lives—from screen time to social media. Learn practical parenting strategies to help girls build confidence, emotional strength, and a healthy sense of self-worth.

Takeaways:

Are we overlooking what the brain is really telling us about ADHD, autism, and behaviour in kids? In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Dr. Robert Melillo, a pioneer in childhood brain development who unpacks the science behind neurodevelopmental disorders—and challenges common assumptions.

Drawing on over 30 years of experience, Dr. Melillo explains how many of these challenges stem from functional brain imbalances rather than genetic factors. He shares non-medication-based strategies and early intervention insights that can help parents support their child’s development and emotional well-being.

A fath...

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 coex...

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 medi...

In this episode of Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Dr. Tasneem Sajwani, a family physician with expertise in obesity medicine and mom.

They discuss the newly released Canadian Pediatric Obesity Clinical Practice Guidelines, which recognize obesity as a complex, chronic disease influenced by genetic, psychological, social, and environmental factors.

The episode covers how these guidelines aim to improve care through individualized, evidence-based approaches and highlights the role of communication, consent, and mental health in managing pediatric obesity.

Takeaways:

Paediatric obesity is a chronic and multifactorial disease that...

The leap from adolescence to adulthood is tricky — and too often, young people find themselves unprepared for the real world. In this episode of theWhere Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino welcomes Rob Finlay — entrepreneur, author of Hey Dad: Everything You Should Have Learned About Life and Didn’t, and father of four — to discuss what it really takes to raise resilient, capable young adults today.

Finlay pulls back the curtain on his own parenting journey, sharing lessons learned, missteps made, and the pivotal skills kids aren't being taught — from handling emergencies and managing finances to navigating relationsh...

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks with Dr. David Yeager, a renowned developmental psychologist, author, and father of four, about the science behind motivating tweens, teens, and young adults.

A former grade school teacher and current Professor of Psychology at the University of Texas at Austin, Dr. Yeager challenges common misconceptions about adolescent behaviour. He explains why shifting our mindset—from seeing teens as problems to recognizing their potential—is essential for effective parenting and teaching.

As co-founder of the Texas Behavioural Science and Policy Institute, Dr. Yeager draw...

In a world where parenting collides daily with cultural shifts, political tensions, uncertainty and a relentless stream of information, overwhelm is increasingly a common emotion. How can parents stay grounded—and help their children do the same?

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino and Arron Neal —a communications expert, cultural strategist, columnist and mom of two— explore strategies for how today’s parents can thoughtfully navigate the pressures of raising kids in an increasingly noisy world.

From screen time and social media to misinformation, identity, and consent, Arron shares strategi...

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino explores the alarming statistics surrounding hearing impairment in Canada, particularly among children, with Peter Stelmacovich, an audiologist and hearing loss patient.

Stelmacovich, who is part of HearCanada's Mississauga clinic, shares his lived experience with the profound implications hearing loss can have including: language acquisition and academic success.

He emphasizes the importance of early detection and intervention.

The conversation explores the role of technology, including hearing aids and cochlear implants, in enhancing communication and independence for children facing these challenges.

...

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino explores the profound impact of outdoor play with journalist and author, Linda Akeson McGurk.

The discussion delves into the Scandinavian philosophy of "friluftsliv," or open air living, and its benefits for children and families alike.

McGurk, an advocate for nature connection, and mother of two, shares how embracing the great outdoors can enhance physical, mental, and emotional health, while fostering resilience and independence in children.

The Swedish-American journalist references the alarming trends of indoor childhood activities and the resulting consequences on...

High-achieving parenting often comes with the weight of expectations, not just from society but also from within ourselves. In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino delves into how these pressures can impact both our emotional health and our children's well-being with her guest, Kate Kripke.

A licensed clinical social, maternal and maternal wellness expert, Kripke shares strategies on how to foster emotional resilience in our kids while navigating the challenges of modern parenting, including the influence of social media and device usage.

The discussion explores the intricate connections between how...

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino discusses the complexities of family relationships amidst addiction and mental health challenges/

Guest Janice Johnson Dowd, a licensed master social worker and author, shares her personal journey of recovery and the profound impact of addiction on her family dynamics.

From her childhood experiences in an alcoholic household to her own struggles with alcoholism, Janice provides an insightful perspective on the choices that shape our lives and the importance of communication in healing. She discusses the pivotal moments that led her to seek help...

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...

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 m...

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...

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...

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...

What’s trending in the world of teens and their sex lives? This episode dives into the pressing concerns around adolescent sexual health, focusing on the alarming decline in condom usage and the rise of sexually transmitted infections among young people in Canada.

Where Parents Talk podcast host Lianne Castelino speaks to Dr. Sarah Flicker, a professor at York University, who discusses how hormonal changes, device usage, and social media influence teenagers’ understanding of relationships and consent.

As the pandemic disrupted vital sex education, many youth missed critical opportunities to learn about their physical and emot...

Navigating the turbulent waters of your child's 20s can be challenging, especially as they face significant uncertainty in their lives. In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Dr. Meg Jay, a developmental clinical psychologist, author, speaker and mom.

Dr. Jay emphasizes the importance of understanding this decade as a critical period for mental health and emotional well-being. With societal milestones shifting later in life, parents must adapt their expectations and focus on fostering independence and resilience in their young adults.

This episode dives into key trends affecting today's 20...

Loneliness among young people has reached epidemic levels, with significant implications for their mental health and well-being.

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Milena Batanova, Director of Research and Evaluation at Making Caring Common at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Batanova sheds light on the disconnect between parents and teens regarding emotional support and the overwhelming achievement pressure that exacerbates feelings of isolation. Drawing on recent surveys, she reveals that many adolescents prefer confiding in friends rather than their parents, citing a lack of understanding and empathy from...

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Dr. Paul Sunseri, a child and family clinical psychologist, researcher, author and father of four.

Dr. Sunseri's latest book is called Gentle Parenting Reimagined, which offers a transformative approach to parenting, especially for those struggling with challenging behaviours in their children.

He discusses how traditional gentle parenting techniques often fall short when dealing with oppositional or defiant kids. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the emotional states of children and suggests a shift from engaging during moments of dysregulation to allowing...

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Dr. David Rosmarin, clinical psychologist, Associate Professor at Harvard Medical School, founder of the Center for Anxiety, author and father of six .

Anxiety is not an enemy to be eliminated but rather a natural part of life that can be embraced and harnessed for growth, according to Dr. Rosemarin, who distills the alarming rise of anxiety in society, particularly among youth, and challenges the unrealistic expectation of living an anxiety-free life.

He shares insights from his own experiences during the pandemic...

In this week's episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Shari Leid, a life and friendship coach who shares her transformative journey from a successful law career to becoming an author and reinvention coach.

Central to her philosophy is the belief that resilience, identity, and belonging are critical themes in parenting, especially in today's rapidly changing world.

Drawing from her own experiences, including overcoming breast cancer and navigating motherhood, Leid emphasizes the importance of viewing obstacles as opportunities for growth. She advocates for parents to model resilience for their children...

This week on the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Hunter Clarke-Fields, mindfulness mentor, bestselling author of Raising Good Humans, speaker and mother of two.

What does it take to raise kind, confident, and resilient children in today’s fast-paced world? Clarke-Fields dives into the power of mindfulness in parenting, sharing actionable tips to break the cycle of reactive parenting and build deeper, more meaningful connections with your kids.

Whether you’re seeking tools to manage stress, foster emotional intelligence, or simply create a more peaceful home environment, learn how to approach pare...

This week on the Where Parents Talk Podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks with Jacqueline Rourke, an award-winning journalist, podcaster, and mother of three who is also an expert in parental alienation. 

Rourke shares her personal experience with parental alienation, outlining the behaviours and impacts it has on both parents and children. 

She discusses the mental and physical toll it took on her and the strategies she used to eventually reconnect with her children. 

The conversation also includes suggestions for parents who are dealing with alienation, the importance of public awareness, and the need for...

This week on the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino interviews Margo Machol Bisnow, an author and speaker with a background in the US government and nonprofit sector. 

Bisnow discusses her book, 'Raising an Entrepreneur,' which features 99 stories from diverse families whose children have achieved entrepreneurial success. She emphasizes the importance of parents supporting their children's passions, embracing failure as a learning opportunity, and creating conditions that foster entrepreneurial thinking. 

The conversation touches on Bisnow's personal experiences with her own entrepreneur children, the changing job market, and specific parenting methods that encourage independence an...