Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam

PODCAST SHOW NOTES FORMAT Are you stuck in what feels like an emotional Groundhog Day with your teen—where the same arguments, defiance, and standoffs keep repeating? You’re not alone. In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, I sit down with therapist and bestselling author Kati Morton to uncover why punishment-based parenting fails with teenagers and how to finally break these frustrating cycles. Kati explains that adolescence is about independence-seeking, not rebellion—and when parents try to control teens with consequences, they often fuel the very behaviors they want to stop. Instead, she offers science-backed strategies that shift the focus from control to influence, using curiosity and connection to build lasting respect and trust. From handling risky teen behaviors to creating space for authentic conversations, this episode gives you practical tools and a fresh perspective. If you’re tired of repeating the same exhausting battles, this conversation will help you hit reset and start building a calmer, more connected relationship with your teen. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE Why punishing your teen often makes behavior worse, not better The game-changing shift from control to influence How to stay calm and use “wise mind” during heated conflicts Simple ways to spark honest conversations without forcing it 🎧❤️ 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 Kati Morton’s upcoming book: Why Do I Keep Doing This? (Releases December 9) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Emotion Mind vs. Wise Mind Skinner Box research on punishment effectiveness Parts work therapy for emotional responses CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Kati Morton 🌐 Website 📘 Facebook 📸 Instagram ▶️ YouTube 🎵 TikTok 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 Breaking the Emotional Groundhog Day Cycle 03:01 Understanding the Illusion of Control in Parenting 05:56 Navigating Independence and Communication with Teens 08:46 The Importance of Honesty and Vulnerability 11:44 Empathy and Understanding in Parenting Teens 14:50 Addressing Risky Behaviors in Teens 20:11 Understanding Risky Behaviors in Teens 21:27 The Ineffectiveness of Punishment 23:49 Curiosity Over Judgment 25:16 The Importance of Understanding Teen Behavior 27:09 Building Trust and Influence 29:21 The Role of Communication in Parenting 31:38 Repairing Relationships After Mistakes 38:40 The Power of Curiosity in Parenting 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 #parentingteens #teenbehavior

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. In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, I sit down with Dr. Jenny Hwang, a clinical psychologist and parent coach with more than 20 years of experience helping families navigate emotional chaos and conflict. Dr. Hwang reveals why traditional “boundaries” backfire with teens, the surprising truth about why parents end up feeling walked over, and how to set limits in a way that actually works. Her grounded, no-nonsense approach is a game-changer for parents who are tired of power struggles and ready for peace. If you’re ready to stop the exhausting cycle of battles and create a calmer, more respectful home, this episode is for you.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE Why most parents misunderstand what boundaries actually are The difference between rules that control vs. boundaries that empower How to handle disrespectful communication without losing your cool Why your teen’s push for independence isn’t rebellion—it’s healthy development 🎧❤️ 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! 🙌   CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Dr. Jenny Hwang Instagram: @ProjectParentCoach YouTube: @ProjectParentCoach   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 Boundaries with Teens 04:27 – Defining Boundaries: What Parents Need to Know 08:01 – Overstepping Boundaries: The Parent-Teen Dynamic 12:17 – Navigating Emotional Triggers and Responses 17:37 – The Importance of Mutual Respect 21:39 – Learning to Say No: Establishing Limits 25:45 – The Challenge of Control in Parenting 30:34 – The Power of Presence and Attention 35:08 – Social Media and Parenting: A New Frontier 38:43 – Key Takeaways: Empowering Parents to Set Boundaries   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 #teenboundaries #parentingteens

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 we’re constantly falling short. But what if you could quiet that inner critic—even just a little—and start noticing what’s actually going right? In this heartfelt episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, counselor and author Erin Morrison—creator of @itsTheConsciousMom and author of Three Minutes for Mom—offers science-backed insight and deeply reassuring advice for parents who feel like they’re failing. We dive into why our brains focus on the negative, how to stop taking our teen’s behavior so personally, and what it really means to be “doing enough.” Erin also shares a simple 3-minute daily mindset practice that can help you reconnect with yourself—and your teen. If you’re constantly hard on yourself, overwhelmed by parenting pressure, or just tired of feeling like you’re not enough… this episode is your reset. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE Why your teen's boundary-pushing is actually a good thing The secret to feeling like a “good parent” again (in just 3 minutes a day) How to shift your mindset from constant criticism to quiet confidence What you’re getting right—even if it doesn’t feel like it 🎧❤️ 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 Three Minutes for Mom by Erin Morrison (Simon & Schuster) “Catch Them Being Kind” 5-Day Challenge The “Friend Perspective” & “It’s Not Personal, It’s Developmental” reminders CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Erin Morrison Website: https://theconsciousmom.com Instagram: @itsthe.consciousmom 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 The Struggles of Parenting Teens 03:05 Reframing Our Perspective on Parenting 05:42 Recognizing Wins in Parenting 08:46 The Importance of Self-Recognition 11:24 Responding vs. Reacting to Our Teens 14:25 The Impact of Parental Self-Perception 17:28 Building Positive Relationships with Teens 20:25 Practical Steps for Self-Care 23:19 Finding Balance in Parenting 26:36 Grounding in Parental Truth 29:09 Tiny Shifts for Big Changes 32:35 Balancing Business and Pleasure in Parenting 35:40 Understanding Developmental Stages 37:59 Letting Go for Connection 46:20 Ownership and Independence in Parenting 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 #consciousparenting #parentingfailnomore

Ever wish you had a pause button—for your teen or yourself? When you’re caught in a meltdown, shutdown, or power struggle, it’s easy to spiral into reactivity and regret. In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, Jennie Phillips—coach, fitness pro, mom of four, and author of Yellow Light Moments—introduces a science-backed framework that empowers families to slow down and reset before emotions explode. Jennie shares her 3-step “Yellow Light Moment” method (Yield-Listen-Move), giving parents the language, tools, and mindset shifts needed to manage teen stress, model emotional regulation, and create a calmer home. If your family is running on exhaustion and conflict, this episode will help you pump the brakes—with just a few intentional minutes that can shift everything.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE A 3-step process to prevent teen blowups before they start How to create shared emotional language with your teen (like “caterpillar” or “question quota”) Why your teen’s “laziness” might actually be healthy self-regulation How guilt around self-care is secretly sabotaging your parenting   🎧❤️ 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! 🙏💫 🔔 Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE so you never miss another solution-packed episode! 🙌   RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Yellow Light Moments Book YLM Toolbox for Teens   CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Jennie Phillips Website: www.jenniephillipscoaching.com Instagram: @jenniephillipscoaching Facebook: Jennie Phillips Coaching LinkedIn: Jennie Phillips   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 The Need for a Pause 01:09 Introducing Yellow Light Moments 06:38 Understanding the Concept of Yellow Light Moments 12:27 The Importance of Pausing 20:24 Training Ourselves to Yield 25:44 Benefits of Taking a Pause 29:37 Modeling for Our Teens 33:56 Final Thoughts and Action Items   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. #theteentranslator #drcamcaswell #parentingteenswithdrcam #teenmeltdowns #parentburnout

Worried your teen might fall into the wrong hands online? You’re not being overprotective—you’re being smart. In this powerful episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, I’m joined by Nate Lewis, founder of The Innocent, a nonprofit on a mission to protect kids from trafficking, exploitation, and abuse right here in the U.S. A former law enforcement officer with 20+ years of global experience in anti-trafficking operations, Nate shares expert-backed, real-world strategies for protecting your teen—without shutting them down or locking everything down. If you’ve ever felt helpless watching your teen scroll through social media or worried about who’s DMing them behind the scenes, this episode gives you clarity and next steps. We dig into the grooming process, why emotionally vulnerable teens are at greater risk, and what subtle online red flags parents often miss. But most importantly, we talk about how to build the kind of connection that keeps your teen safe. Because the best safety tool isn’t an app—it’s trust. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE The #1 predictor of whether a predator can gain access to your teen 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 🎧❤️ 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! 🙌   CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Nate Lewis Website: theinnocent.org Instagram: @theinnocent.usa LinkedIn: Nate Lewis TikTok: @theinnocent.usa 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 the Risks of Online Predators 02:55 Nate Lewis’s Journey and Motivation 05:48 The Psychology of Grooming and Exploitation 08:45 Building Trust and Communication with Teens 11:31 Navigating Social Media Safely 14:35 Identifying Vulnerabilities in Teens 17:18 Empowering Teens Against Manipulation 20:09 The Role of Parents in Prevention 23:04 Modeling Healthy Relationships 25:55 Addressing the Issue of Consent 28:54 Supporting Teens After Trauma 31:56 Creating a Community Response 34:44 The Importance of Education and Awareness   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 #onlinepredators #teensafety

Constantly clashing with your teen? It’s not the conflict—it’s how you handle it. But here’s the good news: conflict isn’t the problem—it’s how you handle it. Harvard Law negotiation expert Bob Bordone reveals how the same conflict resolution strategies used by world leaders can transform your parent-teen relationship. 🎧 In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, you’ll learn how to move from power struggles and emotional blowups to productive conversations that build trust, strengthen your bond, and teach teens lifelong skills. Avoiding conflict might feel easier in the moment—but it actually weakens your connection over time. Bob explains how to use everyday disagreements as opportunities to teach problem-solving, perspective-taking, and emotional resilience.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE Why avoiding conflict with your teen may hurt more than help The science of “affective labeling” to calm heated arguments How to stop power struggles and spark better problem-solving Why teens who know how to argue are more resilient and confident 🎧❤️ ENJOYING THE SHOW? Don’t keep it to yourself! 👉 Share your favorite episode 👉 Leave a rating and review 👉 SUBSCRIBE so you never miss another solution-packed episode! Your feedback helps other parents find the support they need—and helps me create even more practical tips for real-life parenting. 🙏💫   RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Book: Conflict Resilience by Bob Bordone Research: Matt Lieberman (UCLA) on Affective Labeling Judd Brewer’s “Bigger Better Offer” (BBO) on Motivation Website: bobBordone.com Family Activity: Try reading Conflict Resilience as a family book club to practice conflict resolution skills together!   CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Bob Bordone Website: bobbordone.com Instagram: @bobbybordone Facebook: facebook.com/bordone LinkedIn: Robert Bordone X: @bobbordone YouTube: Bob Bordone   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 – The Power of Conflict in Parenting 05:48 – Understanding Conflict Avoidance 11:35 – Reframing Conflict as Collaboration 15:41 – Effective Communication Strategies 20:37 – Navigating Technology and Boundaries 28:03 – Building Trust in Parent-Teen Relationships 35:37 – The Journey of Conflict Resolution   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 #teenconflict #conflictresolution #parentingteens #teennegotiation #teentips #bobbordone #parentingstrategies #podcastforparents

Does your teen seem unmotivated, disconnected from school, or uninterested in college? You're not alone—and it doesn’t mean they’re lazy or doomed. In this powerful episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, I’m joined by Hannah Maruyama, founder of Degree Free, who’s helping parents rethink success and explore real-world alternatives to the traditional college path. If you're tired of power struggles, student loan fear, and outdated definitions of “making it,” this conversation will give you practical tools and a fresh perspective to help your teen find their way—without unnecessary debt, pressure, or burnout. Hannah breaks down why the college industrial complex is crumbling, how to spot smarter options, and how to support your teen in creating a future that fits them.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE Why pushing college as the only option is backfiring on many teens How to motivate your teen without using grades, guilt, or fear What the job market actually values (hint: it’s not always a degree) 5 alternative paths your teen can take to succeed without student loans 🎧❤️ 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! 🙏💫 🔔 Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE so you never miss another solution-packed episode! 🙌   RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Degree Free Website 5 Pathways to Great Work (YouTube Episode)   CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Hannah Maruyama 🌐 Website: degreefree.com 📸 Instagram: @degreefree 🎥 YouTube: @DegreeFree 🎵 TikTok: @degreefree   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 Rethinking Success: The Outdated College Path 01:28 Hannah's Journey: From College to Career Freedom 04:15 The Pressure to Conform: College as the Only Option 10:10 The Financial Burden: Student Loans and Their Impact 21:19 Changing Job Market: The Shift Away from Degrees 36:36 Strategic Career Planning 42:25 Navigating Career Choices 52:13 Alternative Pathways to Success   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. #degreefree #parentingteenswithdrcam

Think your teen is using weed because of peer pressure? Think again. In this powerful episode, Dr. Cam sits down with Dr. Jessica Willoughby and Dr. Stacey Hust from the WSU Media Adolescent Cannabis (MAC) Lab to unpack the real reasons behind rising teen cannabis use—and what parents can actually do about it. Backed by groundbreaking research, this episode explores how savvy marketing, social media influence, and misleading packaging—not just peer dynamics—are shaping teen decisions. If you've ever felt unsure about how to talk to your teen about weed, you're not alone. This episode gives you the insights, tools, and language to have real, meaningful conversations without losing the connection. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE Why peer pressure is notthe main reason teens are using weed today How marketing, packaging, and perceived norms shape your teen’s choices What THC-labeled gummies and “natural” branding are really doing to teen perception Harm reduction strategies that actually work when prevention isn’t enough    🎧❤️ ENJOYING THE SHOW? If this episode gave you clarity, confidence, or just made you feel a little more understood, hit that ⭐️ and leave a review! Your feedback helps more parents find support and lets me keep delivering real-talk episodes that make a difference. 🔔 Make sure to hit SUBSCRIBE so you never miss an episode.   RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE WSU MAC Lab SAMHSA National Helpline NIDA—Cannabis CDC—Cannabis and Teens Teens, Sex and Media Effects: Understanding Media's Influence on Adolescent Sexuality, Sexual Health, and Advocacy CONNECT WITH OUR GUESTS Dr. Stacey Hust Email: sjhust@wsu.edu LinkedIn: Stacey Hust BlueSky: staceyhust@bsky.social Dr. Jessica Willoughby Email: jessica.willoughby@wsu.edu LinkedIn: Jessica Fitts Willoughby BlueSky: @jwilloughby.bsky.social    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 Cannabis Use 03:06 The Impact of Cannabis on the Adolescent Brain 07:30 Navigating Conversations with Teens 12:15 Harm Reduction Strategies for Parents 19:53 The Role of Marketing in Teen Cannabis Use 25:17 Addressing the Challenges of Edibles 30:29 Ethical Dilemmas in Parenting and Cannabis 32:28 Starting Early: Conversations About Cannabis   ABOUT THE SHOW Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is your go-to podcast for real-world parenting strategies backed by psychology, neuroscience, and a whole lot of empathy. Hosted by adolescent psychologist Dr. Cam Caswell, each episode delivers practical tips and honest conversations that help you better understand your teen—and yourself. Whether you're facing eye rolls or emotional breakdowns, this show is here to help you parent smarter, not harder. #theteentranslator #teenweeduse #parentingteenswithdrcam

In this must-listen episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, adolescent psychologist and parenting coach Dr. Cam Caswell sits down with writer and professor Nancy Reddy, author of The Good Mother Myth, to unpack the crushing weight of unrealistic parenting expectations. Together, they explore how outdated beliefs about “good” parenting are fueling unnecessary guilt and stress—especially for moms of teens. You’ll learn the difference between helpful guilt and harmful shame, how to let go of perfectionism, and how to reframe your role as your teen grows more independent. Nancy also shares the liberating truth about asking for help and why showing vulnerability is one of the best lessons you can teach your teen. This episode is both a sigh of relief and a wake-up call. If you're tired of feeling like you're not doing enough, listen in. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE How outdated “good mom” myths create toxic guilt for modern parents. The truth about your role in your teen’s happiness (and why it’s not what you think) Why modeling imperfection and asking for help makes you a better parent Practical tips to release shame, reclaim calm, and parent from your values 5 KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR PARENTS OF TEENS Guilt ≠ Shame: Guilt can spark change, but shame keeps you stuck in self-blame Use a values check when guilt creeps in—what matters to your family, not to others Build a “friend family” of supportive adults to share the emotional and logistical load Ask for help—and watch how it gives your teen permission to do the same Focus on the relationship, not your performance. You’re a parent, not a perfectionist   🎧❤️ 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 The Good Mother Myth by Nancy Reddy Write More, Be Less Careful Newsletter Work Like a Mother by Laura Bazelon Unfit Parent by Jessica Slice Research by Erica Boothby on “the liking gap” Anthropological research by Margaret Mead   CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Nancy Reddy Website: nancyreddy.com Instagram: @nancy.o.reddy Newsletter: Write More, Be Less Careful 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 The Pressure of Perfection in Motherhood 03:12 Navigating the Transition to Parenting Teens 06:05 Understanding and Overcoming Mom Guilt 09:01 The Myth of the Perfect Mother 12:03 Distinguishing Guilt from Accountability 14:48 Letting Go of Guilt and Embracing Trust 18:11 The Role of Community and Co-Parenting 21:22 Navigating New Motherhood and Guilt 24:38 The Role of Community in Parenting 26:10 Understanding Guilt in Parenting 30:09 The Importance of Asking for Help 33:11 Modeling Vulnerability for Our Children 38:34 Defining Values to Combat Guilt   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 #momguilt #parentingteens #mentalhealthformoms #parentinghelp

Are you stuck in constant battles with your teen—no matter how many consequences you hand out? You're not alone. In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, I sit down with renowned psychologist and TEDx speaker Dr. Paul Sunseri, author of Gentle Parenting Reimagined. With over 40 years of experience, Dr. Sunseri offers parents a powerful shift: how to stay calm, set firm boundaries, and transform behavior—without yelling or giving in. If you’ve got a strong-willed or defiant teen, this episode will be a game-changer.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE What to do when consequences no longer work with your teen How to set effective boundaries without yelling or power struggles The difference between gentle parenting and permissiveness How to tie privileges (like screen time) to responsibility   5 KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR PARENTS OF TEENS Shift from “Fixing the Kid” to Changing the Dynamic: Teen defiance is often about the relationship, not just behavior. Focus on how you respond. Speak Calmly and Clearly: Avoid emotional reactions. Use matter-of-fact requests to maintain authority without fueling conflict. Use Privileges Strategically: Tie screen time and other privileges to daily responsibilities—then follow through consistently. Expect Resistance, But Stay the Course: Change won’t happen overnight. Stay patient and consistent even when it’s tough. Believe in Their Ability to Grow: Set high (yet compassionate) expectations. Let them fail and learn—it’s how resilience is built.   🎧❤️ 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! 🙏💫 🔔 SUBSCRIBE so you never miss another solution-packed episode! 🙌   RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE 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 OUR GUEST: Dr. Paul Sunseri Website: myIFFT.org Instagram: @dr_paul_challengingkids YouTube: Dr. Paul Sunseri   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 Defiance in Teens 05:13 The Bi-Directional Influence of Behavior 10:05 Common Mistakes Parents Make 18:10 Navigating Emotional Regulation 28:03 Strategies for Managing Household Responsibilities 30:36 The Autonomy Dilemma in Parenting 32:26 Effective Communication Strategies with Teens 34:20 Flexibility and Boundaries in Parenting 36:12 Motivation and Homework Challenges 39:00 Understanding Teen Resistance to Homework 42:31 Balancing Privileges and Responsibilities 45:41 Negotiating Homework and Screen Time 48:56 Navigating Homework Expectations 51:17 Establishing Behavioral Habits 54:36 Setting Realistic Parenting Goals 57:38 The Importance of Limits and Expectations 01:01:29 Building Resilience Through Challenges 01:05:33 Parenting Across Generations   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 #parentingdefiantteens