
Parenting Great Kids with Dr. Meg Meeker
Parents today face the challenge of guiding their children through a world that feels increasingly complex. Dr. Meg Meeker, known as America's Mom and a leading authority on parenting, teens, and children's health, provides practical insights to simplify the parenting journey. As a trusted pediatrician, mother, and bestselling author, Dr. Meeker engages with top experts and real parents to discuss current issues, answer important parenting questions, and offer actionable advice. Her podcast delivers simple, effective solutions, offering hope and encouragement to every parent
Latest episodes

Jun 24, 2025 • 34min
Ep. 281: Keeping Kids Safe in the Age of AI
Dr. Meg Meeker welcomes Leslie Tyler, Director of Parent Education at Pinwheel and a champion for Children’s Digital Wellness, to unpack the risks and opportunities AI brings into our children’s lives.
In this episode, we explore:
Why children are early adopters of AI—and what parents need to know.
The double-edged sword of AI as both a learning tool and a potential digital crutch.
Key risks for kids using AI, from misinformation to emotional dependence.
The role of parents in guiding safe AI usage and encouraging critical thinking.
Pinwheel GPT and other tools designed with kids’ safety in mind.
🎉 Join Our New Parenting Community — FREE! Get access to webinars, mini-courses, exclusive content, a private forum to connect with other parents, and so much more. Start parenting with more confidence and real support: 👉 meekerparenting.com
Our Guest:
Leslie Tyler is the Director of Parent Education at Pinwheel and a leading voice in children’s digital wellness. A mom of two teens and an expert in ed-tech and online safety, she collaborates with researchers at the Digital Wellness Lab at Boston Children’s Hospital to help parents raise tech-smart kids in a screen-heavy world.
Sponsored by:
Hungryroot – 40% off + a free item in every box at hungryroot.com/drmeg (code DRMEG)
KiwiCo – $15 off your Summer Adventure Series at kiwico.com/DRMEG
Summer Bridge Workbooks with IXL – Keep your kids learning and loving it this summer at summerbrains.com/DRMEG.
Rula connects you with licensed therapists for as little as $15/session using insurance—visit rula.com/drmeg to get started.
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Jun 17, 2025 • 37min
Ep. 280: Let Go to Lead Better: How Biblical Wisdom Can Ease Parenting Anxiety
Is your parenting stress spilling over into your child's life? You're not alone—and you're not powerless. In this episode, Mark Gerson, author of God Was Right, shares how biblical wisdom—paired with modern psychology—can radically shift the way we understand independence, fear, and success in parenting.
We cover:
The connection between parental stress and children's anxiety
How ancient stories like Isaac’s birth and Joseph’s rise can transform your parenting style
The myth of “stranger danger” and how it fuels fear-based parenting
Why celebrating your child's independence can relieve your stress
How trusting God’s plan reduces anxiety and promotes joyful parenting
Mark helps us reframe stress, fear, and control through a lens of faith, confidence, and wisdom—so we can raise kids who thrive, not just survive.
🎉 Join Our New Parenting Community — FREE! Get access to webinars, mini-courses, exclusive content, a private forum to connect with other parents, and so much more. Start parenting with more confidence and real support: 👉 meekerparenting.com
Our Guest:
Mark Gerson is a graduate of Williams College and Yale Law School, and the author of several books on intellectual history, education, and biblical wisdom, including God Was Right: How Modern Social Science Proves the Torah Is True. His writing has appeared in The Wall Street Journal, The New Republic, Commentary, and USA Today, covering topics from Frank Sinatra to the story of Jonah. He lives in New York City with his wife, Rabbi Erica Gerson, and their four children.
Sponsored by:
Hungryroot – 40% off + a free item in every box at hungryroot.com/drmeg (code DRMEG)
Acorns – Start investing with spare change: acorns.com/drmeg
Acorns Early – Teach your kids about money: acornsearly.com/drmeg
WHO SMARTED? – A podcast that makes kids laugh while they learn. Search “WHO SMARTED?” wherever you get your podcasts.
KiwiCo – $15 off your Summer Adventure Series at kiwico.com/DRMEG
Børn Shoes – Crafted for all-day support, top-quality style, and made to move with you. Get 15% off plus free shipping with code DRMEG at BornShoes.com – comfort never looked so good.
Summer Bridge Workbooks with IXL – Keep your kids learning and loving it this summer at summerbrains.com/DRMEG.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jun 15, 2025 • 33min
Ep. 279: "Dad, I’ve Got This”: Raising Independent Kids
In this special Father’s Day episode, Dr. Meg Meeker talks with Rob Finlay, author of Hey Dad, Everything You Should Have Learned About Life but Didn’t. They dive into how parents—especially dads—can raise kids who are prepared for real-world responsibilities.
In this episode:
The life skills every teen needs before leaving home
Why failure builds independence and confidence
Communication, budgeting, and decision-making in everyday life
The crucial role fathers play in raising self-sufficient kids
Timestamps:
00:00 – Father’s Day message
00:32 – Meet Rob Finlay
01:30 – Why young adults feel unprepared
03:12 – Life skills your kids really need
07:45 – Letting them fail
12:10 – How to talk to adults
17:23 – Financial literacy basics
23:38 – Building independence through responsibility
29:15 – Support vs. overparenting
33:42 – Final thoughts
Resources:
Rob Finlay’s book → Simon & Schuster
Try Dr. Meg's PGK community for free → https://meekerparenting.com/
About Our Guest
Rob Finlay is a USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author, entrepreneur, speaker, and father of four. He has built and sold multiple companies, with deep experience in commercial real estate, finance, and leadership. His latest book, Hey Dad: Everything You Should’ve Learned About Life (But Didn’t) (released April 29, 2025), offers practical life-skills guidance for young adults—covering topics like budgeting, job hunting, home maintenance, and communication—with real-world insights and expert interviews. You can learn more about Rob, his work, and his books at his official website: robfinlay.com
Sponsors:
DeepCozy – 15% off at deepcozy.com with code DRMEGAmazfit Active 2 – 10% off at amazfit.com/DRMEGHungryroot – 40% off plus a free item at hungryroot.com/drmeg with code DRMEGAcorns – Start saving at acorns.com/drmegAcorns Early – Teach kids about money at acornsearly.com/drmegHeat Holders® – 15% off at heatholders.com with code DRMEGEquip Health – Virtual eating disorder care at equip.health.com/drmeg
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Jun 6, 2025 • 36min
Ep.278: She Was the Perfect Student—And Secretly Depressed
What happens when a high-achieving, all-American girl is silently battling depression? In this powerful episode, Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with Allie Marie Smith, life coach, speaker, and author of Social Media Reset, to explore how the pressure to be perfect—and the influence of social media—nearly led her to end her life.
Allie shares her story of growing up in Silicon Valley, struggling with hidden sadness from a young age, and reaching a breaking point as a teen. She opens up about the moment that changed everything near the Golden Gate Bridge, her journey back to mental health through faith, and how stepping away from social media helped her reclaim her joy.
As summer begins and screen time skyrockets, this episode offers an honest and hopeful conversation about the emotional impact of social media on kids and teens—and how families can move toward healing, connection, and purpose.
In This Episode:
Allie’s story of hidden depression behind straight A’s and smiles
How social media deepened her struggle—and what changed when she unplugged
The myth of “they look fine”—and how to see beneath the surface
How faith and mental health support saved her life
The dangers of unchecked social media: from self-harm to trafficking
What parents need to understand about screen time this summer
How Allie’s nonprofit Wonderfully Made is helping the next generation reclaim joy and identity
Join Our New Parenting Community — FREE! Get access to webinars, mini-courses, exclusive content, a private forum to connect with other parents, and so much more. Start parenting with more confidence and real support: meekerparenting.com
About Allie Marie Smith
Allie Marie Smith is the author of Social Media Reset: A 30-Day Guided Journey to Unplug, Reconnect with God, and Reclaim Your Joy and founder of Wonderfully Made, a faith-based nonprofit equipping girls and women with resources for mental health, identity, and purpose. Her mission is to help young people break free from the pressure of perfection and discover their God-given worth.
Sponsored by:
Hungryroot – 40% off + a free item in every box at hungryroot.com/drmeg (code DRMEG)
Acorns – Start investing with spare change: acorns.com/drmeg
Sponsored by Rula — Therapy should be affordable and covered by insurance. Rula connects you with licensed therapists based on your needs—and works with over 100 insurance plans. Get started at rula.com/drmeg.
Acorns Early – Teach your kids about money: acornsearly.com/drmeg
WHO SMARTED? – A podcast that makes kids laugh while they learn. Search “WHO SMARTED?” wherever you get your podcasts.
KiwiCo – $15 off your Summer Adventure Series at kiwico.com/DRMEG
Børn Shoes – Crafted for all-day support, top-quality style, and made to move with you. Get 15% off plus free shipping with code DRMEG at BornShoes.com – comfort never looked so good.
Summer Bridge Workbooks with IXL – Keep your kids learning and loving it this summer at summerbrains.com/DRMEG.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

May 28, 2025 • 32min
Ep. 277: Shame-Free Parenting: Embracing Good Enough with Craig Knippenberg
Do you feel like you're falling short as a parent? Dr. Meg Meeker, pediatrician and parenting expert, sits down with child and family therapist Craig Knippenberg to unpack why “good enough” is more than enough in today’s complex parenting landscape.
Craig is the author of Shame-Free Parenting: Building Resiliency in Times of Hardship, Guns, and Social Media, and together, he and Dr. Meg explore how parents can stop chasing perfection and start parenting with compassion, consistency, and courage.
You’ll hear:
Why perfectionism creates disconnection—and what to do instead
How to distinguish healthy guilt from harmful shame
The overlooked role of temperament and trauma in parenting struggles
Tools for single parents, and why support networks matter more than ever
The healing power of small, intentional family rituals
🎉 Join Our New Parenting Community — FREE!
Get access to webinars, mini-courses, exclusive content, a private forum to connect with other parents, and so much more. Start parenting with more confidence and real support: 👉 meekerparenting.com
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 – Introduction: The landscape of modern parenting
00:34 – Meet Craig Knippenberg: Therapist & author on shame-free parenting
01:24 – What does it mean to parent without shame?
01:41 – How parenting stress has evolved through history
05:12 – Why kindness toward ourselves as parents matters
06:30 – The personal impact of Columbine and working in trauma
13:40 – Temperament: The missing piece in parenting challenges
19:36 – How inconsistency creates confusion and behavioral issues
20:37 – Adjusting expectations and embracing flexibility
21:04 – The quiet power of being consistent
21:51 – Shame vs. accountability: What’s the difference?
22:44 – Understanding how guilt can be helpful—but shame is toxic
25:38 – Why middle school is a tough phase—and how to stay connected
29:02 – Tools and encouragement for single parents
31:33 – Simple, powerful family rituals that create safety
34:33 – Final thoughts and helpful resources
About Craig Knippenberg
Craig Knippenberg is a licensed child and family therapist specializing in trauma, adolescent development, and parenting dynamics. His book Shame-Free Parenting is a compassionate guide to building emotionally safe homes amid modern challenges.
Sponsored by:
Hungryroot – 40% off + a free item in every box at hungryroot.com/drmeg (code DRMEG)
Acorns – Start investing with spare change: acorns.com/drmeg
Acorns Early – Teach your kids about money: acornsearly.com/drmeg
WHO SMARTED? – A podcast that makes kids laugh while they learn. Search “WHO SMARTED?” wherever you get your podcasts.
KiwiCo – $15 off your Summer Adventure Series at kiwico.com/DRMEG
Børn Shoes – Crafted for all-day support, top-quality style, and made to move with you. Get 15% off plus free shipping with code DRMEG at BornShoes.com – comfort never looked so good.
Summer Bridge Workbooks with IXL – Keep your kids learning and loving it this summer at summerbrains.com/DRMEG.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

May 19, 2025 • 38min
Ep. 276: Breaking Free from Substance Abuse – A Parent’s Journey to Recovery
What happens when a parent, once strong and accomplished, finds themselves trapped in addiction? In this compelling episode of the Parenting Great Kids podcast, Dr. Meg Meeker speaks with Nick Padlo, founder of Sophros Recovery in Tampa. A former combat veteran and addiction survivor, Nick shares how his journey through military service and personal struggle led him to create a treatment center focused on holistic healing for individuals facing both substance use and co-occurring mental health challenges.
Together, they explore:
Why traditional recovery approaches sometimes fall short
How mindfulness and comprehensive care can change lives
What busy parents need to know about recognizing addiction
How recovery is possible—even while navigating the pressures of parenting
In this episode, you’ll learn:
The emotional toll of addiction on parents and families
The neuroscience behind substance use and mental health
Why community, structure, and internal healing are key to lasting sobriety
Practical steps for seeking help and beginning the recovery journey
Nick Padlo is the founder of Sophros Recovery, a Tampa-based treatment center offering holistic care for substance abuse and co-occurring mental health disorders. A former U.S. Army combat veteran and successful executive, Nick’s personal recovery story shaped his mission to help others find sustainable healing. His work emphasizes mindfulness, evidence-based therapies, and a deep understanding of the unique needs of veterans and high-performing individuals seeking recovery.
Sophros Recovery → https://sophrosrecoverytampa.com
Join our new parenting community for free and explore coaching options with Dr. Meg Meeker → meekerparenting.com
Episode Timestamps
00:00 – Introduction: The Hidden Struggles of Parenting
00:40 – Meet Nick Padlo: From military leadership to recovery advocate 01:53 – Nick’s personal journey through trauma, addiction, and recovery 05:40 – Alcohol and emotional suppression: Understanding the trap 08:26 – The neuroscience of addiction and the mind-body connection 10:20 – Self-care as a foundation for recovery
14:07 – Identifying the signs of substance use in parents
15:35 – Overcoming stigma and asking for help
18:05 – Understanding the stages of change in recovery
18:32 – Motivation, mindfulness, and internal transformation
19:58 – Alcohol’s ripple effects on families and children
20:39 – Effective recovery tools: Meditation, therapy, and support
26:00 – The power of community and connection in healing
28:23 – Navigating daily life while maintaining sobriety
33:38 – Nick’s reflections and hope for parents in recovery
36:28 – Final thoughts from Dr. Meg and Nick Padlo
Sponsored by:
Hungryroot – 40% off + a free item in every box at hungryroot.com/drmeg (code DRMEG)
Acorns – Start investing with spare change: acorns.com/drmeg
Acorns Early – Teach your kids about money: acornsearly.com/drmeg
WHO SMARTED? – A podcast that makes kids laugh while they learn. Search “WHO SMARTED?” wherever you get your podcasts.
KiwiCo – $15 off your Summer Adventure Series at kiwico.com/DRMEG
Børn Shoes – crafted for all-day support, top-quality style, and made to move with you. Get 15% off plus free shipping with code DRMEG at BornShoes.com – comfort never looked so good.
Keep your kids learning and loving it this summer—check out Summer Bridge Workbooks with IXL at summerbrains.com/DRMEG.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

May 6, 2025 • 38min
Ep. 275: Understanding and Combating Toxic Productivity in Parenting with Israa Nasir
Do you feel like you're constantly running on empty trying to be the “perfect” parent? In this powerful episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with Israa Nasir, licensed psychotherapist and author of Toxic Productivity: Reclaim Your Time and Emotional Energy in a World That Always Demands More, to unpack how the pressure to always “do more” is impacting parents and their children.
Israa shares how toxic productivity is driven by perfectionism, fear of inadequacy, and cultural expectations—and how it leads to chronic stress, emotional overwhelm, and strained family dynamics. Together, she and Dr. Meg explore practical ways to break the cycle of overfunctioning and reclaim peace and presence at home.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
What toxic productivity looks like in real-life parenting
How fear and societal expectations fuel burnout
The long-term emotional effects on both parents and kids
How to set flexible boundaries and prioritize well-being
Simple tools like micro-breaks, reprioritization, and self-worth reframing
Empowering advice for single moms carrying it all
About Israa Nasir
Israa Nasir is a NYC-based psychotherapist, speaker, and mental health educator. She helps high-achieving individuals overcome perfectionism, burnout, and emotional dysregulation. Her new book Toxic Productivity is a compassionate guide to reclaiming mental space and joy in a hustle-obsessed culture.
Episode Breakdown
00:00 – Introduction to Toxic Productivity00:50 – What is Toxic Productivity?02:05 – How It Impacts Parents and Children04:31 – Parenting Rooted in Fear08:40 – Breaking the Cycle of Overachieving12:07 – Reprioritizing and Setting Boundaries26:26 – Separating Self-Worth from Productivity32:16 – Advice for Single Moms Navigating Overload36:34 – Final Reflections and Empowering Takeaways
Resources & Links
Toxic Productivity by Israa Nasir → Toxic Productivity — Israa Nasir
Learn more about Israa Nasir → Israa Nasir
Expert parenting coaching with Dr. Meg Meeker → https://meekerparenting.com
Sponsored by:
Amazfit Active 2 – 10% off AI coaching at amazfit.com/DRMEG
Hungryroot – 40% off + a free item in every box at hungryroot.com/drmeg (code DRMEG)
Acorns – Start investing with spare change: acorns.com/drmeg
Heat Holders® – 15% off cozy winter wear at heatholders.com (code DRMEG)
Acorns Early – Teach your kids about money: acornsearly.com/drmeg
WHO SMARTED? – A podcast that makes kids laugh while they learn. Search “WHO SMARTED?” wherever you get your podcasts.
KiwiCo – $15 off your Summer Adventure Series at kiwico.com/DRMEG
Børn Shoes – crafted for all-day support, top-quality style, and made to move with you. Get 15% off plus free shipping with code DRMEG at BornShoes.com – comfort never looked so good.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Apr 30, 2025 • 35min
Ep. 274: What Parenting Really Takes: Insight from a Disabled Mom’s Journey
What does it mean to parent when the world isn't built for you? Jessica Slice, author of Unfit Parent: A Disabled Mother Challenges an Inaccessible World, joins Dr. Meg Meeker to share her powerful story of raising a child with a disability. Jessica discusses the myths around "perfect parenting," the societal barriers disabled parents face, and how true connection matters far more than physical perfection.
In this episode, we discuss:
Jessica’s journey to disability – and motherhood – and how she reclaimed her narrative.
The unique challenges and joys of parenting with a disability.
The critical role of community support and adaptive problem-solving.
How unrealistic societal standards impact all parents, not just disabled ones.
The importance of teaching children about disability with honesty and compassion.
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 – Introduction: The unique challenges of parenting 00:21 – Meet Jessica Slice: Advocate, author, and mother 01:34 – Jessica's personal journey into disability and motherhood 03:12 – Parenting with a disability: Challenges and strengths 04:31 – Adopting and raising a newborn as a disabled parent 08:34 – How community and creative problem-solving make parenting possible 16:08 – Facing (and fighting) accessibility barriers in everyday life 24:04 – Why community support matters more than perfection 26:25 – Teaching kids empathy and understanding about disability 28:51 – Final reflections and words of encouragement
Our Guest:
Jessica Slice is a disabled author, speaker, and essayist whose upcoming memoir Unfit Parent has been shortlisted for the J. Anthony Lukas Prize. She’s the co-author of several books, including Dateable and We Belong (with the late Judy Heumann), and her writing has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Glamour, and more. A sought-after podcast guest, Jessica holds degrees from Davidson College and Columbia University and lives in Toronto with her family.
Resources & Links: Learn more about Jessica Slice’s book Unfit Parent → https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jessica-Slice/author/B0D96Q4KB5
Work with Dr. Meg Meeker → https://meekerparenting.com/
Our Sponsors
Amazfit Active 2 – 10% off AI coaching at amazfit.com/DRMEG
Hungryroot – 40% off + a free item in every box at hungryroot.com/drmeg (code DRMEG)
Acorns – Start investing with spare change: acorns.com/drmeg
Heat Holders® – 15% off cozy winter wear at heatholders.com (code DRMEG)
Acorns Early – Teach your kids about money: acornsearly.com/drmeg
WHO SMARTED? – A podcast that makes kids laugh while they learn. Search “WHO SMARTED?” wherever you get your podcasts.
KiwiCo – $15 off your Summer Adventure Series at kiwico.com/DRMEG
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Apr 21, 2025 • 40min
Ep. 273: Navigating College Admissions: Expert Advice for Parents
What’s the real key to college admissions success? It might not be what you think. In this empowering episode of Parenting Great Kids, Dr. Meg Meeker is joined by Dr. Pamela Ellis, also known as The Education Doctor. With experience guiding over 30,000 families and helping students earn an average of $75,000 in scholarships, Dr. Ellis shares invaluable insights that every parent needs to hear.In this episode, you'll learn:
Why finding the right college fit matters more than just getting into a "top" school.
How to debunk common college admissions myths and focus on what truly works.
The crucial role parents play—without micromanaging.
Tips for empowering your teen to lead their own admissions journey with confidence.
How gratitude practices can support emotional health during the stressful admissions process.
Whether you're just beginning to think about college or already knee-deep in applications, this episode offers actionable strategies and deep wisdom to help you and your child navigate the college admissions process with purpose and peace of mind.Episode Breakdown:00:00 – Introduction: Why college admissions is stressful for families00:21 – Meet Dr. Pamela Ellis: The Education Doctor’s approach to college planning01:34 – Common myths about admissions and scholarships04:22 – How to find the “right college fit” for your teen11:13 – The role of parents: guiding without controlling17:19 – Helping teens take ownership of the process22:01 – Gratitude practices and their impact on students26:06 – When college isn’t the obvious next step28:21 – Building confidence through applications34:16 – Supportive parenting strategies that work38:55 – Final thoughts and next steps for familiesAbout Dr. Pamela EllisDr. Pamela Ellis, MBA, Ph.D., is the founder of Compass Education Strategies and author of What to Know Before They Go. Known nationally as The Education Doctor, she helps families navigate college admissions with a focus on holistic student success—academically, socially, financially, vocationally, and culturally.Resources & Links:Learn more about Dr. Pamela Ellis and her work → https://compasscollegeadvisory.com/ 👉 Book a coaching session with Dr. Meg Meeker → https://meekerparenting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Apr 14, 2025 • 39min
Ep. 272: Cracking the Code of Teen Anxiety: What Every Parent Needs to Know
What’s driving the surge in teen anxiety—and how can parents help kids take back control of their mental health?In this episode, Dr. Meg Meeker is joined by Dr. Jodi Aman, a seasoned psychotherapist, author, and educator with nearly 30 years of experience helping teens and families break free from the grip of anxiety. Together, they explore the real reasons behind today’s teen mental health crisis—from social media to dopamine addiction—and offer practical, compassionate solutions for parents.You’ll learn:
Why smartphones, social isolation, and societal pressures are creating a perfect storm for anxiety
How comparison culture fuels low self-worth and perfectionism
What dopamine does to the developing brain—and why kids feel overwhelmed
Why validating your child’s emotions matters more than “fixing” them
How to help teens understand, manage, and even overcome anxiety
When to seek professional help, and what to look for in a therapist
Need expert help applying these strategies in your home? Book a private coaching session with Dr. Meg Meeker: https://meekerparenting.com/coaching/Episode Breakdown00:00 – Welcome and introduction to the teen anxiety crisis 00:27 – Meet Dr. Jodi Aman and her work with teens and parents 01:00 – What’s causing anxiety to skyrocket in Gen Z 04:45 – How social media and dopamine shape the anxious brain 10:59 – Parental roles: validation, support, and what not to do 15:55 – Helping teens understand and manage anxiety 22:09 – The hidden effects of isolation and cultural pressure 28:08 – Tools for families: The Compass Curriculum and more 30:51 – When to seek professional help and signs to watch for 37:53 – Final encouragement and takeaways for parentsAbout Dr. Jodi AmanDr. Jodi Aman is a licensed therapist, author, and creator of the COMPASS Curriculum, a mental wellness program for teens. With nearly 30 years of experience, she’s worked with families in over 14 countries, focusing on anxiety, trauma, and emotional resilience. A graduate of Columbia University and Simmons University (DSW), Jodi blends neuroscience, Narrative Therapy, and global insight to help Gen Z understand themselves, build confidence, and navigate the pressures of modern life.Resources & LinksExplore Dr. Jodi Aman’s work: https://jodiaman.com Learn about the Compass Curriculum: https://jodiaman.com/compassLoved this episode?Subscribe, leave a review, and share with a friend. Your support helps more parents discover tools to raise resilient, emotionally healthy kids.Our SponsorsDeepCozy – 15% off sinus relief at deepcozy.com (code DRMEG)Amazfit Active 2 – 10% off AI coaching at amazfit.com/DRMEGHungryroot – 40% off + a free item in every box at hungryroot.com/drmeg (code DRMEG)Acorns – Start investing with spare change: acorns.com/drmegHeat Holders® – 15% off cozy winter wear at heatholders.com (code DRMEG)Acorns Early – Teach your kids about money: acornsearly.com/drmegEquip Health – Virtual eating disorder support at equip.health.com/drmegWHO SMARTED? – A podcast that makes kids laugh while they learn. Search “WHO SMARTED?” wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.