
Help! I Have A Teenager
Being a teenager has changed. A lot. There’s TikTok, vaping, d*ck pics, there are Snap maps, selfies and filters...and it's all a potential battlefield for parents where the stakes feel impossibly high. So welcome to some real parenting talk. As both clinicians and parents, Dr. Ginni Mansberg and clinical psychologist Jo Lamble know first-hand how challenging it can be to raise adolescents. This is why they're bringing their common-sense expertise to Mamamia’s Help! I Have A Teenager. Every week Dr. Ginni and Jo will be answering your questions, and you can submit them at podcast@mamamia.com.au
Latest episodes

Oct 5, 2023 • 18min
Why You Need To Stop Tracking Your Teen
Are you using an app to keep tabs on your teenager’s whereabouts? This episode we unpack why Ginni and Jo don’t think tracking your child’s location is the best approach for their safety. And, as our kids grow older, their bodies naturally go through changes. But what should you do if you notice signs of your teen developing an unhealthy relationship with food? We offer advice to a parent who’s worried their child is overeating. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous form here Got a question? We’re listening! Call the pod phone on 02 8999 9386 or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au CREDITS: Hosts: Dr Ginni Mansberg & Jo Lamble Find a copy of The New Teen Age here: https://www.booktopia.com.au/the-new-teen-age-ginni-mansberg/book/9781922351258.html Producer: Tahli Blackman Audio Production: Thom Lion Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sep 28, 2023 • 13min
Hacks To Get Your Lazy Teen Out Of Bed
Is your teenager acting a bit down? Staying in bed all day and not really hanging out with friends? Well, it could be signs of depression, or maybe it's just a phase. We'll help you figure out what's what. Plus, Ginni and Jo chat about a parent's dilemma when it comes to charging their teens rent. Is there a right time to drop that on them? THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous form here Got a question? We’re listening! Call the pod phone on 02 8999 9386 or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au CREDITS: Hosts: Dr Ginni Mansberg & Jo Lamble Find a copy of The New Teen Age here: https://www.booktopia.com.au/the-new-teen-age-ginni-mansberg/book/9781922351258.html Producer: Tahli Blackman Audio Production: Thom Lion Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sep 21, 2023 • 16min
‘Final Exams Are Coming Up & My Teen Is A Mess’
The podcast discusses strategies for managing stress during final exams, offers advice on creating a supportive environment for studying, and explores the pressure teenagers face to excel academically. They also address the use of Chat GPT for assignments and the issue of lying among teenagers, highlighting the importance of addressing the root causes behind these behaviors.

Sep 14, 2023 • 15min
TikTok Isn’t As Bad As You Think
Are you worried about your teen using TikTok? Yes, there's some not-so-great stuff on there, but it’s no different to Instagram or Snapchat. Ginni and Jo have some thoughts that might put your mind at ease about TikTok and some tips to make sure your teen is using the app safely. Plus, when your teen breaks a promise, do you let them off? Ginni and Jo have some advice for a mum whose kid didn't quite stick to their word. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous form here Got a question? We’re listening! Call the pod phone on 02 8999 9386 or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au CREDITS: Hosts: Dr Ginni Mansberg & Jo Lamble Find a copy of The New Teen Age here: https://www.booktopia.com.au/the-new-teen-age-ginni-mansberg/book/9781922351258.html Producer: Tahli Blackman Audio Production: Thom Lion Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sep 7, 2023 • 14min
Surviving Driving Lessons With Your Cocky Teen
What's more dangerous: a teenager who's anxious about driving or one who's overly confident behind the wheel? This week, Ginni and Jo are sharing their wisdom for parents of learners as they unpack the road rage, the risky behaviour and advise how to deflate the ego. And, if your kid's going through some serious growing pains, be sure to consult a trusted doctor. Ginni and Jo debunk some sketchy health advice a mum received, so you can be sure your child is getting the right care. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous form here Got a question? We’re listening! Call the pod phone on 02 8999 9386 or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au CREDITS: Hosts: Dr Ginni Mansberg & Jo Lamble Find a copy of The New Teen Age here: https://www.booktopia.com.au/the-new-teen-age-ginni-mansberg/book/9781922351258.html Producer: Tahli Blackman Audio Production: Thom Lion Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aug 31, 2023 • 12min
Parenting Hack: Being Bored Is Actually Good For Kids
Discover why boredom is good for kids and how it can unlock creativity. Learn about addressing the issue of not wearing a helmet while bike riding and the importance of parents ensuring their children's safety. Explore the benefits of allowing kids to experience boredom, fostering creativity and problem-solving skills. Find out strategies to encourage boredom for kids, such as dinner time conversations and giving them time to let their minds run free.

Aug 24, 2023 • 14min
Our Advice… Ban The Energy Drinks Now
When the school lunches aren’t made, it’s tempting to hand your teen some cash for the canteen or ‘tuck shop.’ But be warned… they might just be buying unhealthy energy drinks. In this episode, Ginni and Jo discuss why this energy drink craze is more dangerous than you think. Plus, what would you do if you caught your 12 year old smoking? We give advice on how to best approach this with your teen. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous form here Got a question? We’re listening! Call the pod phone on 02 8999 9386 or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au CREDITS: Hosts: Dr Ginni Mansberg & Jo Lamble Find a copy of The New Teen Age here: https://www.booktopia.com.au/the-new-teen-age-ginni-mansberg/book/9781922351258.html Producer: Tahli Blackman Audio Production: Thom Lion Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aug 17, 2023 • 15min
How To Host An 18th Without P*ssing Everyone Off
Turning 18 is a huge milestone for our teens, and with it comes the classic 18th birthday party. But parties can be tricky when some friends aren't of the legal drinking age. Ginni and Jo offer advice to a parent wanting to keep things in check at their daughter's event, with tips to ensure rules are respected and underage drinking is avoided. Plus, we dive into some advice for a parent who has a confession to make about their teen…they find their son incredibly irritating! THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous form here Got a question? We’re listening! Call the pod phone on 02 8999 9386 or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au CREDITS: Hosts: Dr Ginni Mansberg & Jo Lamble Find a copy of The New Teen Age here: https://www.booktopia.com.au/the-new-teen-age-ginni-mansberg/book/9781922351258.html Producer: Tahli Blackman Audio Production: Tegan Sadler Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Just by reading our articles or listening to our podcasts, you’re helping to fund girls in schools in some of the most disadvantaged countries in the world - through our partnership with Room to Read. We’re currently funding 300 girls in school every day and we aim to get to 1,000. Find out more on mamamia.com.au Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aug 10, 2023 • 14min
Prepping Your Teen For Their First Job Interview
Subscribe to Mamamia Job interviews can really rattle our nerves, whether we're teens or all grown up – that's just how it goes. This week, Ginni and Jo, who both support a firm handshake, delve into ways you can get your child all set for their first-ever job interview. Plus, Ginni and Jo lay down some cold hard facts for a parent who doesn’t believe that their child has ADHD and is against medicating them. They suggest strategies to cope with hyperactivity and impulsiveness. THE END BITS Listen to Things You Didn't Learn In School: Yes, There Are Secrets To Nailing A Job Interview GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous form here Got a question? We’re listening! Call the pod phone on 02 8999 9386 or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au CREDITS: Hosts: Dr Ginni Mansberg & Jo Lamble Find a copy of The New Teen Age here: https://www.booktopia.com.au/the-new-teen-age-ginni-mansberg/book/9781922351258.html Producer: Tahli Blackman Audio Production: Thom Lion Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aug 3, 2023 • 14min
So....You Just Found Out Your Teen Is Having Sex
As parents, sometimes we stumble upon things in our teens' rooms that we really wish we hadn't seen. Well, this week, Ginni and Jo hear from a mum who found a box of condoms in her daughter's room and wants to initiate…THE SEX TALK! Plus, Jo opens up about her experiences as a "low talker" and offers valuable advice to a worried parent who believes their daughter’s quietness is a toxic trait. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous form here Got a question? We’re listening! Call the pod phone on 02 8999 9386 or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au CREDITS: Hosts: Dr Ginni Mansberg & Jo Lamble Find a copy of The New Teen Age here: https://www.booktopia.com.au/the-new-teen-age-ginni-mansberg/book/9781922351258.html Producer: Tahli Blackman Audio Production: Tegan Sadler Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Just by reading our articles or listening to our podcasts, you’re helping to fund girls in schools in some of the most disadvantaged countries in the world - through our partnership with Room to Read. We’re currently funding 300 girls in school every day and we aim to get to 1,000. Find out more on mamamia.com.au Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.