Parenting Teenagers Untangled for Fearless Parents: I help you fear less and wonder more

Recent episodes

1. How to Be a Calm Parent to Teens using Boundaries with Diane Sorensen

   Jul 29, 2026

   Ask Rachel anything Are you tired of yelling at your teen – and hating yourself afterwards? In this episode of Teenagers Untangled, I talked with parenting and relationship coach Diane Sorensen about how to stay calm with teens, stop power struggles, and set healthy boundaries without becoming a pushover. If you’re dealing with eye-rolling, “disrespectful” attitudes, shouting matches, and constant tension at home, this conversation will help you: Understand why you get so triggered by your teen’s behavior Shift from controlling behavior to nurturing real connection Use simple emotional regulation tools to pause before you explode Tell the difference between calm parenting and permissive parenting Create healthy boundaries that reduce resentment and build trust Repair after you’ve shouted and show your teen that change is possible We talk about creating boundaries, unpack practical strategies like the PARR method (Pause, Acknowledge, Respond, Reflect), how to reframe “disrespect” as information, and why owning your triggers is the fastest way to transform your relationship with your teen. If you’ve ever thought, “I promised I wouldn’t parent like this, but I don’t know how to stop,” this episode is for you. Diane Sorensen Support the show Please hit the follow button if you like the podcast, and share it with anyone who might benefit. You can review us on Apple podcasts by going to the show page, scrolling down to the bottom where you can click on a star then you can leave your message. Please don't hesitate to seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping. There's no shame in reaching out for support. When you look after yourself your entire family benefits. Find all the tips from the episdoe on Substack: My email My website has a blog, searchable episodes, and ways to contact me Instagram Facebook You can reach Susie at www.amindful-life.co.uk

2. Blended Families: How to Connect With a Child Who Doesn't Accept You

   Jul 22, 2026

   Ask Rachel anything If you’ve ever fallen in love with someone who already has children, or tried to blend two families and thought, “Why is this so hard? What’s wrong with me?” – this episode is for you. You are not broken, and you are definitely not alone. I was joined by Masha Rusanov , coach, writer, and author of Repatterned . Together we unpack: Why step‑parenting can feel so emotionally different from parenting your biological children How to prioritise connection before correction with bonus kids The idea of “ natural parenting ” – why step‑parents shouldn’t be the main disciplinarians What healthy co‑parenting and emotional regulation look like when there are exes, new partners, and multiple households in the mix Practical, everyday strategies to reduce conflict and build trust over time Click here for all of the tips from the episode Whether you’re a step‑parent, a biological parent in a blended family, or you co‑parent across different homes, this conversation will help you feel seen, supported, and better equipped for the long game. Masha Rusanov Support the show Please hit the follow button if you like the podcast, and share it with anyone who might benefit. You can review us on Apple podcasts by going to the show page, scrolling down to the bottom where you can click on a star then you can leave your message. Please don't hesitate to seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping. There's no shame in reaching out for support. When you look after yourself your entire family benefits. Find all the tips from the episdoe on Substack: My email My website has a blog, searchable episodes, and ways to contact me Instagram Facebook You can reach Susie at www.amindful-life.co.uk

3. Parenting Myths That Make Mothers Miserable

   Jul 15, 2026

   Ask Rachel anything Are women naturally good at being mothers or is that a cultural myth? It matters because if we believe women are naturally good at it then they deserve no kudos for the work they do and when we do struggle it lays the blame firmly at our feet, rather than the society we live in. In this episode, I was joined by historian and postnatal practitioner Alex Bollen, author of Motherdom, to unpack the “good mother” myths shaping our culture—and our guilt. We challenge the idea that care is “natural,” reveal how shaky science and social media fuel certainty and shame, and show why there’s no single right way to raise teens. You’ll learn practical tools to lower pressure at home: the weekly myth check, the “misery test” for your to‑do list, stress reframes that build resilience, and village-building strategies that widen support for you and your child. Step away from perfection, toward curiosity and community—and parent your teen with more calm, confidence, and kindness. Read the episode write-up here Support the show Please hit the follow button if you like the podcast, and share it with anyone who might benefit. You can review us on Apple podcasts by going to the show page, scrolling down to the bottom where you can click on a star then you can leave your message. Please don't hesitate to seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping. There's no shame in reaching out for support. When you look after yourself your entire family benefits. Find all the tips from the episdoe on Substack: My email My website has a blog, searchable episodes, and ways to contact me Instagram Facebook You can reach Susie at www.amindful-life.co.uk

4. The vital parenting shift: becoming a mentor to your teen

   Jul 8, 2026

   Ask Rachel anything Welcome to a special mini-series from Teenagers Untangled — seven simple, practical "parenting seeds" to plant over a week, preparing for when your child moves into secondary school or returns from summer. These are gentle shifts, not rules to perfect: They're designed to help you focus on what really matters, and reduce your stress. They'll help you to move from fixing problems to mentoring your child, build emotional safety at home, and give your teen the confidence to make good choices. These are the big picture things I wish I had known much earlier in the teen years. If you'd like an early release of this information and daily email reminders as the series unfolds, and more support, join me on Substack Seven seeds: Changing gears: be explicit about the shift in your parenting from monitoring to mentoring. Make home safe and predictable: create routines and anchors so home feels stable amid constant change. Catch them doing good: notice and praise strengths to build a positive identity and reduce fear of mistakes. Listen until they feel understood (LUFU): use super silence and active listening; summarise and ask before offering advice. Model what you want to see: especially with technology: demonstrate the habits you want your teen to adopt. Be curious about yourself: notice triggers, respond with curiosity not criticism, and model emotional regulation. Talk to your kids before others do: proactively discuss vaping , pornography, nudes , drugs , alcohol and groomers. Role-play responses so they’re prepared before they come under pressure. Support the show Please hit the follow button if you like the podcast, and share it with anyone who might benefit. You can review us on Apple podcasts by going to the show page, scrolling down to the bottom where you can click on a star then you can leave your message. Please don't hesitate to seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping. There's no shame in reaching out for support. When you look after yourself your entire family benefits. Find all the tips from the episdoe on Substack: My email My website has a blog, searchable episodes, and ways to contact me Instagram Facebook You can reach Susie at www.amindful-life.co.uk

5. Parenting Teens Top Tips Announcement + Vintage Reading Festival Advice

   Jul 1, 2026

   Ask Rachel anything Announcing my summer top tips series where I give you a short episode of tips organised around themes to help you focus on what you and your tween or teen needs to prepare you for the new school year. Make sure you’re following the show to ensure you don’t miss any and if you want to get them early and have the tips delivered weekly directly to you just click here Send me the free newsletter and enter our email address. You’ll get them straight to your mailbox. The tips start next week, in the meantime here’s a rerun of the Reading Festival episode because I’ve had so much amazing feedback on it: Music festivals are a rite of passage for many teens. Whilst some love the music, the lack of restriction and opportunities to mingle in a way that they could have only dreamt of during Covid, others decide to give them a miss or go and positively hate the experience. I was never a festival kid growing up. I didn't have the money, or the opportunity. As an adult, I've found them to be joyous events, but will always refuse to stay the night. My girls have now both been to one of the key UK festivals, Reading, so I thought you might be interested to hear more about what to expect if your kids are keen to go, how best to plan ahead, and what the key issues turned out to be. Support the show Please hit the follow button if you like the podcast, and share it with anyone who might benefit. You can review us on Apple podcasts by going to the show page, scrolling down to the bottom where you can click on a star then you can leave your message. Please don't hesitate to seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping. There's no shame in reaching out for support. When you look after yourself your entire family benefits. Find all the tips from the episdoe on Substack: My email My website has a blog, searchable episodes, and ways to contact me Instagram Facebook You can reach Susie at www.amindful-life.co.uk

6. The talk about money most parents leave until too late

   Jun 24, 2026

   Ask Rachel anything Seven in ten teenagers say they're very or extremely interested in investing. Not just curious, genuinely, actively interested. The problem is that most of us parents didn't become aware of investing until we were young adults or older, and half of parents say they wish they'd started sooner. That's a regret a lot of us are carrying around quietly, and without realising it, some of us are passing that same late start on to our kids. Teenagers today aren't waiting. They're already getting an education, just not necessarily the right one. They're watching creators on TikTok and YouTube who make it sound like picking the right crypto coin at the right moment is basically a personality trait. They're seeing posts about teens who turned a hundred pounds into ten thousand, and almost nothing about the ones who lost everything trying. It's exciting, it's fast, and it's completely untethered from the basics that actually build long-term wealth. That's why I invited Sonia Beardsmore, mum, former professional, institutional trader, and author of the book Raise a Mini Investor to talk to us about how we can discuss investing with our kids, how to start them young, and what a difference the deep financial literacy they can build while they're young and curious could really make in the long term. Sonia Beardsmore Previous episode about pocket money Support the show Please hit the follow button if you like the podcast, and share it with anyone who might benefit. You can review us on Apple podcasts by going to the show page, scrolling down to the bottom where you can click on a star then you can leave your message. Please don't hesitate to seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping. There's no shame in reaching out for support. When you look after yourself your entire family benefits. Find all the tips from the episdoe on Substack: My email My website has a blog, searchable episodes, and ways to contact me Instagram Facebook You can reach Susie at www.amindful-life.co.uk

7. School Stress and Exams: The Secret to Parents Helping Teens and Tweens Thrive

   Jun 17, 2026

   Ask Rachel anything Exam stress — are your teen’s exams quietly overwhelming them (and you)? In this episode of Teenagers Untangled I spoke with Katherine Radice, author of The Parent’s Guide to Exam Stress, to explore: * Why teens withdraw and how parental questions can shut down conversations about school * What makes exams uniquely stressful (risk, public outcomes, long timelines) * How parents can build calm, constructive conversations and listen so teens feel safe to share * Practical strategies: establishing effective work habits, rewarding effort vs. outcomes, scaffolding responsibility, and iterative trial-and-review methods for study * Handling struggles: when to improve school support vs. when to build strengths outside school (hobbies, status, resilience) * The “burden of praise” and how to praise in ways that empower rather than create anxiety * Managing parental anxiety: how to consult teens, stay reflective, and help them learn to cope with uncertainty and setbacks Why it’s vital to listen: Exams affect more than grades — they shape teens’ confidence, relationships, and long-term coping skills. This episode gives us evidence-based, compassionate tools to support teens without becoming the “revision police,” reduce household stress, and help young people develop resilience that lasts beyond exam results. Contact Katharine: https://katharineradice.co.uk/ Top tips from this episode: https://open.substack.com/pub/teenagersuntangled/p/the-biggest-cause-of-stress-for-teens?r=2u24i0&utm_medium=ios Support the show Please hit the follow button if you like the podcast, and share it with anyone who might benefit. You can review us on Apple podcasts by going to the show page, scrolling down to the bottom where you can click on a star then you can leave your message. Please don't hesitate to seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping. There's no shame in reaching out for support. When you look after yourself your entire family benefits. Find all the tips from the episdoe on Substack: My email My website has a blog, searchable episodes, and ways to contact me Instagram Facebook You can reach Susie at www.amindful-life.co.uk

8. The Life Skill Parents Forget to Teach: Engaging in Society

   Jun 10, 2026

   Ask Rachel anything Who's teaching our teens how to be good citizens; someone who feels a part of society and enagages meaningfully in creating a world we all want to live in rather than someone who just buys stuff? In this episode I talked with Lindsey Cormick, political scientist and author of How to Raise a Citizen, about why we parents must see it as our job to raise capable, engaged citizens. With civics instruction waning in schools, Lindsey shares actionable strategies to turn everyday moments into lessons about government, community impact, and problem-solving. We discuss how to engage disinterested teens, navigate polarizing topics calmly, model curiosity over certainty, and making local politics tangible for the younger amongst us. The great thing about Lindsey's message is we don't need to know all about politics to get our kids involved, we just need to be prepared to discuss whats happening around us. Perfect for parents who want to boost critical thinking, civic responsibility, and respectful dialogue at home. Resources and printable prompts available at teenagersuntangled.subtack.com. Lindsey Cormack: https://howtoraiseacitizen.com/ https://constitutioncenter.org/ Support the show Please hit the follow button if you like the podcast, and share it with anyone who might benefit. You can review us on Apple podcasts by going to the show page, scrolling down to the bottom where you can click on a star then you can leave your message. Please don't hesitate to seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping. There's no shame in reaching out for support. When you look after yourself your entire family benefits. Find all the tips from the episdoe on Substack: My email My website has a blog, searchable episodes, and ways to contact me Instagram Facebook You can reach Susie at www.amindful-life.co.uk

9. What's a Good Parent? A Bonus Episode in Which I Ask My Own Teenager

   Jun 8, 2026

   Ask Rachel anything In this bonus episode Amelia and I discussed how hard it is to get parenting right, focusing on the misconceptions of gentle parenting and the importance of setting high expectations with support. The full listen to the full episode and read all of my thoughts on it by clicking here. It doesn't cost you anything, it's just a better place for me to store it. We thought it would be really useful for you to hear us talking so that you can get ideas for how you can open up your own conversations at home. Amelia emphasizes the need for clear communication, boundaries, and understanding the root causes of a child's behavior. The conversation highlighted the significance of maintaining a healthy relationship, avoiding emotional responses, and fostering independence. Amelia suggests using reminders and sit-down conversations to address issues without punishment. Amelia also stressed the importance of addressing mental health concerns and being open to feedback to improve parenting skills. Support the show Please hit the follow button if you like the podcast, and share it with anyone who might benefit. You can review us on Apple podcasts by going to the show page, scrolling down to the bottom where you can click on a star then you can leave your message. Please don't hesitate to seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping. There's no shame in reaching out for support. When you look after yourself your entire family benefits. Find all the tips from the episdoe on Substack: My email My website has a blog, searchable episodes, and ways to contact me Instagram Facebook You can reach Susie at www.amindful-life.co.uk

10. What Teens Are Trying to Tell Us: The Crisis of Connection and Masculinity

    Jun 3, 2026

    Ask Rachel anything What are we really telling boys about how to be a man? And why do so many teens seem to be struggling with how to be in the world, from masculinity to friendship, and mental health? In this conversation with Professor Niobe Way (NYU developmental psychologist, author of Deep Secrets and Rebels with a Cause ), we dug into 40 years of research with adolescents. Her work is extraordinary because she has done something deceptively simple and radically powerful: She listened to teenagers carefully, over time, and took what they said seriously. What emerges is a completely different story about boys, friendship, and mental health than the one most of us have absorbed from culture, headlines, and even psychology textbooks. Professor Niobe Way Prof Niobe Way: LinkedIn My early episode in which I referenced Niobe's work Ideas covered in this episode Support the show Please hit the follow button if you like the podcast, and share it with anyone who might benefit. You can review us on Apple podcasts by going to the show page, scrolling down to the bottom where you can click on a star then you can leave your message. Please don't hesitate to seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping. There's no shame in reaching out for support. When you look after yourself your entire family benefits. Find all the tips from the episdoe on Substack: My email My website has a blog, searchable episodes, and ways to contact me Instagram Facebook You can reach Susie at www.amindful-life.co.uk

11. The Hidden Problem of Teen Gambling — and What Parents Can Do

    Jun 1, 2026

    Ask Rachel anything There's been an alarming rise of teen gambling, according to Commonsense Media , with half of 16-17-year-old boys reporting gambling in the past year; surpassing alcohol, nicotine, and marijuana use. Commonsense media says 'we're at a pivotal moment for boys' well-being. We can either let gambling become normalized during a critical period of their development, or we can act now—with education, safeguards, and real accountability.' In this episode Dr. Chung highlights the role of gaming, particularly loot boxes and mystery boxes, in priming teen brains for gambling. She emphasizes the ease of access through mobile devices and the influence of social media and celebrity endorsements. For my full notes on the episode click this link Dr. Chung advises parents to set boundaries, engage in media literacy discussions and stay curious. She also stresses the importance of recognizing signs of addiction, such as secretive behavior and mood shifts, and the need for companies to be more accountable in protecting minors. Support the show Please hit the follow button if you like the podcast, and share it with anyone who might benefit. You can review us on Apple podcasts by going to the show page, scrolling down to the bottom where you can click on a star then you can leave your message. Please don't hesitate to seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping. There's no shame in reaching out for support. When you look after yourself your entire family benefits. Find all the tips from the episdoe on Substack: My email My website has a blog, searchable episodes, and ways to contact me Instagram Facebook You can reach Susie at www.amindful-life.co.uk

12. Parenting Thriving Teens using Science

    May 20, 2026

    Ask Rachel anything If you’ve ever looked at your teen glued to a screen, living on junk food, or melting down over “nothing” and thought, What am I doing wrong? — this episode will change how you see everything. In today’s fast-paced, often overwhelming world, understanding how to foster resilience, well-being, and cognitive development is key to raising thriving children Today's guest, Dr Katy Granville-Chapman, author of Growing Minds: The Science of Raising Thriving Teens”, gives us the evidence-based information we parents need to support our children's brain health. She explains: How big tech and junk food companies are hijacking your teen’s dopamine system Why your child actually wants to do well (and what keeps derailing them) Simple, science-backed ways to: Get buy-in on screen limits (without endless battles) Use identity-based habits so teens choose healthy behavior themselves Teach emotional regulation as a skill, not a personality trait Check your teen’s “body budget” (sleep, movement, food, connection) before assuming there’s a crisis Why kindness and contribution are secret superpowers for teen resilience And the one message every guilty, overwhelmed parent needs to hear: it’s never too late, and you’re doing better than you think. Listen now and learn how to move from nagging and panic… to mentoring your teen so they can truly flourish. Find the top tips here DISCOUNT CODE ON PRE-ORDERS OF KATY'S NEW BOOK: Click this link and use the code UNTANGLED25 Katy Granville-Chapman: Support the show Please hit the follow button if you like the podcast, and share it with anyone who might benefit. You can review us on Apple podcasts by going to the show page, scrolling down to the bottom where you can click on a star then you can leave your message. Please don't hesitate to seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping. There's no shame in reaching out for support. When you look after yourself your entire family benefits. Find all the tips from the episdoe on Substack: My email My website has a blog, searchable episodes, and ways to contact me Instagram Facebook You can reach Susie at www.amindful-life.co.uk

13. Prepare for the Inevitable: The Guide to Grief for Parents of Tweens and Teens

    May 13, 2026

    Ask Rachel anything Parenting tweens and teens is challenging enough, but when someone in the family becomes seriously ill or dies, it can feel overwhelmingly difficult. In all honesty, we Westerners are terrible at talking about death, often avoiding it, so when it comes to talking with teenagers about the subject most of us don't feel equipped. Many who have suffered a loss, or are suffering a serious illness will tell you that friends often fall away just at the time when they are most valued, because they're embarrassed or uncomfortable about the situation. In this episode we draw on research, personal experience - and some incredible listener feedback - to discuss how to deal with a serious illness or death when you're raising a teen. We pass on some amazing tips that have made all the difference, and also some awful 'what not to do's'. The episode is dedicated to the wonderful mum, Sophie Baker and her loving husband and boys, who did an amazing job in very difficult circumstances. Get the ToolKit Top Tips from this episode here BOOKS: When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi The Bright Hour by Nina Riggs You Can Stop Humming Now by Daniela Lamas Being Mortal by Atul Gawande Smoke gets in your Eyes by Caitlin Doughty The Choice by Edith Eger Support for kids and young people who are bereaved: https://winstonswish.org/ https://hospiceofnorthidaho.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Supporting-a-Teen-When-Someone-is-Seriously-Ill.pdf https://www.hospiscare.co.uk/how-we-help/advice-support/children-and-young-people/how-to-talk-about-death-with-children-and-teenagers/ https://thegoodgriefproject.co.uk/ https://yourteenmag.com/health/teenager-mental-health/how-to-talk-about-death https://whatsyourgrief.com/helping-a-teenager-deal-with-grief-2/ https://elunanetwork.org/resources/talking-to-teens-and-children-about-illness-and-death https://www.strong4life.com/en/emotional-wellness/emotional-expression/talking-to-kids-and-teens-about-death https://www.todaysparent.com/family/talking-about-death-with-kids/ https://www.winstonswish.org/support-a-grieving-teenager/ https://www.childbereavementuk.org/information-understanding-grieving-teenagers https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/two-takes-depression/201612/the-dos-and-donts-talking-child-about-death?amp https://audioboom.com/posts/6858679-talking-to-young-people-about-death-and-dying Support the show Please hit the follow button if you like the podcast, and share it with anyone who might benefit. You can review us on Apple podcasts by going to the show page, scrolling down to the bottom where you can click on a star then you can leave your message. Please don't hesitate to seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping. There's no shame in reaching out for support. When you look after yourself your entire family benefits. Find all the tips from the episdoe on Substack: My email My website has a blog, searchable episodes, and ways to contact me Instagram Facebook You can reach Susie at www.amindful-life.co.uk

14. The Vital Skill Parents Can Teach Teens and Tweens: Critical Thinking

    May 6, 2026

    Ask Rachel anything Click here for my blog post and summary of the core skills Our teenagers are growing up in a world saturated with information, outrage, and algorithms designed to keep them scrolling. As parents, it can feel overwhelming: How do we help our kids navigate AI, social media, fake news, and online manipulation—without either over-controlling them or throwing up our hands? In this episode, I talk to Dr Maree Davies, senior lecturer at the University of Auckland and author of Teaching Critical Thinking to Teenagers: How kids can be street smart about AI, algorithms, fake news and social media . Her work is all about making critical thinking accessible to all teenagers, not just the academically gifted. And crucially, she shows how these skills can actually reduce anxiety by giving teens a sense of control over the flood of information they face every day. We explore: What critical thinking really is (beyond the academic buzzword) and why the tween and early teen years (11–15) are such a powerful window for learning it How cognitive bias , schemas, and teenage brain development affect the way young people react to information—especially on social media Marie’s Street Smarts model for teaching critical thinking at home and in school, starting from a teen’s own story and perspective How to talk to teens about algorithms, AI, fake news, and influencers in a way that feels respectful, engaging, and non-preachy The role of relationships, respect, and status in adolescent life—and how we can use these realities to open up richer conversations Why modelling our own struggles (with phones, news, time management, etc.) is far more powerful than lecturing Practical question types and conversation prompts that help teens move from emotional reactions to thoughtful, reasoned views This is one of my favourite recent conversations and I’d love as many people as possible to hear it. These skills matter because our teenagers are being shaped—every day—by forces they often don’t fully understand. Critical thinking isn’t about turning them into cynics; it’s about giving them tools, language, and confidence to question, to evaluate, and, when necessary, to change their minds. It’s also about strengthening our own connection with them, so that they feel heard, respected, and equipped to take their place in the world as thoughtful, compassionate adults. Support the show Please hit the follow button if you like the podcast, and share it with anyone who might benefit. You can review us on Apple podcasts by going to the show page, scrolling down to the bottom where you can click on a star then you can leave your message. Please don't hesitate to seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping. There's no shame in reaching out for support. When you look after yourself your entire family benefits. Find all the tips from the episdoe on Substack: My email My website has a blog, searchable episodes, and ways to contact me Instagram Facebook You can reach Susie at www.amindful-life.co.uk

15. Parenting in High-Conflict Homes: Protecting Your Kids When Your Partner Won’t Change

    Apr 29, 2026

    Ask Rachel anything “My husband is highly critical of the teenagers, gets angry over little things and yells, so I’m having to make up for his behavior, and I often avoid involving him in parenting decisions." This message came into my Substack. It was a plaintiff request for support and a plea to know how others deal with the problem. When I posted it (with her permission), a flood of parents said, “This is my life too.” If you're dealing with high conflict in your home, whether with your teens or your partner, then this is the episode for you. Conflict navigation specialist, mediator, and divorce coach Masha Rusanov helps us to unpack what really sits behind high‑conflict dynamics at home—especially when one parent is emotionally dysregulated, highly critical, or reactive. She says: 'We don’t choose our conflicts. We repeat them. Until we change the pattern." Link to my write-up on the topic In our conversation we explore: Why we repeat the same painful conflict patterns (and how to start changing them) Masha’s simple but powerful Exhale–Explore–Engage framework you can use in the heat of the moment Practical scripts and tools (EAR and BIFF) for navigating a high‑conflict partner How to protect your children emotionally, set boundaries, and avoid parentifying them Ways to talk to your kids honestly about what’s happening—without overburdening them If you’ve ever found yourself “making up” for a partner’s behaviour, or trying to keep things calm so your teens feel safe, this conversation is for you. Masha Rusanov Repatterned Book REMINDER: Please don't stay in a situation that is potentially dangerous. This is the national domestic abuse helpline for the UK, but you will likely have one in your country if you're listening somewhere else. Spotting the signs Is your partner jealous and possessive? Is he charming one minute and abusive the next? Does he tell you what to wear, where to go, who to see? Does he constantly put you down? Does he play mind games and make you doubt your judgment? Does he control your money, or make sure you are dependent on him for everyday things? Does he pressure you to have sex when you don’t want to? Are you starting to walk on eggshells to avoid making him angry? Does he control your access to medicine, devices or care that you need? Does he monitor or track your movements or messages? Does he use anger and intimidation to frighten and control you? Support the show Please hit the follow button if you like the podcast, and share it with anyone who might benefit. You can review us on Apple podcasts by going to the show page, scrolling down to the bottom where you can click on a star then you can leave your message. Please don't hesitate to seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping. There's no shame in reaching out for support. When you look after yourself your entire family benefits. Find all the tips from the episdoe on Substack: My email My website has a blog, searchable episodes, and ways to contact me Instagram Facebook You can reach Susie at www.amindful-life.co.uk

16. The Manosphere for Parents of Teens: Signs Your Son Is Being Influenced (and How to Respond)

    Apr 22, 2026

    Ask Rachel anything “Is my son secretly being taught to hate women?” If you’ve ever heard your boy casually repeat a line from Andrew Tate… seen him disappear into his room with his phone… or wondered what on earth he’s absorbing on TikTok and YouTube, this episode is for you. The manosphere is grooming boys to believe women are the enemy—and most parents don’t even realise it’s happening. In this conversation, I’m joined by teacher and author of Unmasking the Manosphere, Matt Pinkett to unpack how these ideas hook our sons, how they show up at home and in school, and—most importantly—how you can respond without shutting your boy down or pushing him further into that world. Toolkit: Ch ecklist of How to Talk to Your Boys Matt Pinkett Conflict resolution skills Looksmaxxing Original Manosphere episode Talking to your teen about pornography The expert on talking about pornography Support the show Please hit the follow button if you like the podcast, and share it with anyone who might benefit. You can review us on Apple podcasts by going to the show page, scrolling down to the bottom where you can click on a star then you can leave your message. Please don't hesitate to seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping. There's no shame in reaching out for support. When you look after yourself your entire family benefits. Find all the tips from the episdoe on Substack: My email My website has a blog, searchable episodes, and ways to contact me Instagram Facebook You can reach Susie at www.amindful-life.co.uk

17. ‘Lazy’ to Motivated: Parenting Revision, Homework & Exams. Hear a Teen On What Really Helps

    Apr 15, 2026

    Ask Rachel anything It's exam season and so important to keep a steady ship with all of the stress in the house. I thought it would be a great time to interrupt my youngest, Amelia, for an honest chat about what she sees as both good and bad strategies for supporting teenagers through exams, and homework; particularly those with dyslexia and ADHD. We wanted to give parents hope, an honest insight into how bumpy the road can become, and how long it can take to figure out what the best way of supporting your teen will be. Over the past six months at her new college, Amelia has really found her feet and feels motivated to work very hard. This is helped enormously by feeling she matters to friends, loving the college she is at, and receiving proper ADHD support and intervention. She shares her previous struggles with homework and motivation, attributing it to a lack of emphasis on academics and being placed in less academically focused classes, but also made clear how important it is to take time to understand underlying issues rather than assuming laziness. Amelia advises against nagging, focusing on long-term goals, and providing structure without micromanaging. Listen to the end to hear Amelia's important, very spontaneous, message for all parents listening to this podcast. As usual, my girls prefer not to be on camera, so this is an audio-only episode. Read my thoughts about our discussion here Get the toolkit tips here OTHER EPISODES: Helping kids with exam nerves Tips for parenting through the pressure of exams Trust your kids Boys who’re apathetic about study and exams Why school exam systems need to change How anxiety works and what we can do Support the show Please hit the follow button if you like the podcast, and share it with anyone who might benefit. You can review us on Apple podcasts by going to the show page, scrolling down to the bottom where you can click on a star then you can leave your message. Please don't hesitate to seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping. There's no shame in reaching out for support. When you look after yourself your entire family benefits. Find all the tips from the episdoe on Substack: My email My website has a blog, searchable episodes, and ways to contact me Instagram Facebook You can reach Susie at www.amindful-life.co.uk

18. Parenting teens for connection not perfection

    Apr 8, 2026

    Ask Rachel anything So many parents of teens quietly worry that they’re “failing” — not doing enough, not staying calm enough, not getting the outcomes they hoped for. This episode is an invitation to step off that perfectionist treadmill. Instead of parenting for perfect grades, perfect behavior, or perfect choices, we explore how to parent for connection: building daily rituals of togetherness, modeling honest self-care, and using compassionate self-talk so your teen can develop a kinder inner voice too. You’ll hear practical ways to show your child they’re loved for who they are, not what they achieve, and how that shift can transform the atmosphere in your home. Click here for a list of ways to connect that make all the difference Contact Ronnie Vehemente: Mood Advisor Ronnie is the founder of The Family Room www.familyroomla.com, a unique psychotherapy practice, focused on the challenges of parenting, marriage & family life. Ronnie has 30 years of experience counseling children, teens, new mothers, parents, couples and families. She graduated from Columbia University School of Social work. Ronnie is an advisor to Mood.org, bringing her deep understanding of teen psychology. The mission of Mood is to put free, fast, and effective mental health tools in the hands of EVERY tween and teen—building skills and resilience through content they want to engage with. Support the show Please hit the follow button if you like the podcast, and share it with anyone who might benefit. You can review us on Apple podcasts by going to the show page, scrolling down to the bottom where you can click on a star then you can leave your message. Please don't hesitate to seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping. There's no shame in reaching out for support. When you look after yourself your entire family benefits. Find all the tips from the episdoe on Substack: My email My website has a blog, searchable episodes, and ways to contact me Instagram Facebook You can reach Susie at www.amindful-life.co.uk

19. Parenting Teens Through Love & Heartbreak: What we do wrong and what helps

    Apr 1, 2026

    Ask Rachel anything When parenting teens through their first experience of love and attraction it can bring up a lot of feelings we thought we'd neatly packed away; the intensity of that first crush, the humiliation of not being chosen, the heartbreak that felt like it would swallow us whole. As a parent trying to support our kids through it can be tricky because our teens’ first love stories can collide with our own unfinished ones. In this episode of Teenagers Untangled, I’m joined by professor Lisa Phillips, author of First Love: Guiding Teens Through Relationships and Heartbreak . We explore the complex world of teen behavior surrounding first love and heartbreak. Understanding how our teens express their feelings and the challenges they face can really help us to communicate with them. We talk about: Why parents often feel a spike in distress when their teen starts dating How crushes, “situationships” and breakups affect the developing teenage brain The difference between healthy intensity and unhealthy enmeshment How to support both boys and girls in talking about their feelings, not just their “results” What it means to parent in a world of social media, online porn, nonchalance and loneliness How to show up for LGBTQ+ and questioning teens when their identities don’t fit the “straight story” Why consent can’t be a tick‑box talk, and how to navigate the grey areas with our kids What healthy support after a breakup actually looks and sounds like If your child is anywhere on the spectrum from secret crush to serious relationship, this conversation will help you understand what’s happening beneath the surface. My hope is that it gives you language, courage and compassion to walk alongside them, rather than dismissing it as “just drama” or trying to shut it all down. Because for our teens, first love isn’t practice. It’s real, it’s formative, and it leaves a lasting imprint. How we respond now can teach them not only how to survive their first heartbreak, but how to love and be loved for the rest of their lives. Previous interview with my own daughter, Phoebe Tips from this show Contact Lisa Phillips: lisaamyphillips@gmail.com Lisa A. Phillips, author of the new book, First Love: Guiding Teens through Relationships and Heartbreak, has written about relationships, mental health, and teens for the New York Times, the Washington Post, Longreads, Psychology Today, Cosmopolitan, Salon, and other outlets. She teaches journalism and the popular “Love and Heartbreak” seminar at the State University of New York at New Paltz. Support the show Please hit the follow button if you like the podcast, and share it with anyone who might benefit. You can review us on Apple podcasts by going to the show page, scrolling down to the bottom where you can click on a star then you can leave your message. Please don't hesitate to seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping. There's no shame in reaching out for support. When you look after yourself your entire family benefits. Find all the tips from the episdoe on Substack: My email My website has a blog, searchable episodes, and ways to contact me Instagram Facebook You can reach Susie at www.amindful-life.co.uk

20. Parenting teens through failure and on to university

    Mar 25, 2026

    Ask Rachel anything A listener parenting a teen son wrote to say both of them felt pretty stunned when he was rejected from the university he'd set his heart on. She asked for the best way to help our teenagers cope with this sort of disappointment. I thought it was a great question and a good opportunity to also look at how we parents can best navigate when our teen has worked for years toward a dream - a top university place, exam results, a team, a part - and it doesn’t happen. The disappointment can feel earth‑shattering for them and gut‑wrenching for you. In this episode I talk with Dr Dominique Thompson, award‑winning GP and young people’s mental health expert, about how to support teenagers through big disappointments such as university rejection, exam failure, and missed opportunities – without rescuing them or minimising their feelings. We explore: What teens are actually grieving when things go wrong – including the loss of an imagined future How to validate their emotions while gently stopping catastrophic thinking The difference between building resilience and teaching kids to suppress their feelings Why today’s culture of perfectionism and “being the best” is driving anxiety, burnout and fear of failure How to help teens separate self‑worth from grades, offers and achievements Practical ways to prepare teens for university life , academic stress and independence When dropping out isn’t the only option – how to press pause , get help and return stronger What to do if your teen feels “left behind” while friends move on to university or big opportunities How parents can be a “safe harbour” : supportive, boundaried, and not adding their own disappointment to their teen’s load If you’re a parent wondering how to respond when your child says, “I’ve failed you,” or “There’s no point trying,” this conversation will give you concrete language, mindset shifts and step‑by‑step strategies to help them cope, reframe, and find a new path forward. Dr Dominique Thompson: is a multi-award winning former GP, young people's mental health expert, TEDx speaker, author and educator, with over two decades of NHS clinical experience. She is author of The Student Wellbeing Series for young people, and co-author of How to Grow a Grown Up (PenguinRandomHouse) for parents. dominique.thompson@me.com www.buzzconsulting.co.uk https://www.instagram.com/drdomthompson/ https://www.facebook.com/drdomthompson/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominique-thompson/ Support the show Please hit the follow button if you like the podcast, and share it with anyone who might benefit. You can review us on Apple podcasts by going to the show page, scrolling down to the bottom where you can click on a star then you can leave your message. Please don't hesitate to seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping. There's no shame in reaching out for support. When you look after yourself your entire family benefits. Find all the tips from the episdoe on Substack: My email My website has a blog, searchable episodes, and ways to contact me Instagram Facebook You can reach Susie at www.amindful-life.co.uk