Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam

• Breaking Up with “Good Mom” Guilt: Redefining Success in the Teen Years

  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 Together, they explore how outdated beliefs about “good” parenting are fueling unnecessary guilt and stress—especially for moms of teens.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 WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE How outdated “good mom” myths create toxic guilt for modern parents.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

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• Parenting a Defiant Teen: How to Set Limits When Consequences Don't Work

  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  

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• Supporting Your Teen Through Love, Heartbreak, and All the Feels

  When your teen falls in love for the first time—or goes through their first heartbreak—it can be emotional for everyone. You want to protect them, guide them, and maybe even stop them from getting hurt. But if you're not careful, your good intentions can push them away. In this episode, I’m joined by journalist, professor, and fellow mom Lisa A. Phillips, author of First Love: Guiding Teens Through Relationships and Heartbreak. Lisa shares powerful insight from her personal and professional journey helping teens—and parents—navigate the emotional rollercoaster of young love. If you’re wondering how to talk to your teen about dating, heartbreak, or those “red flag” relationships without causing shutdown or secrecy, this conversation is a must-listen.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE Why teens hide their relationships—and how to keep the conversation open How to support your teen through their first heartbreak without minimizing their pain What to say when you’re worried about who your teen is dating How sharing your relationship experiences can actually help your teen make better choices   5 KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR PARENTS OF TEENS Validation builds trust: When your teen opens up about a relationship, resist the urge to fix it. Just listen first. Judgment shuts teens down: Even one negative comment can drive their dating life underground. Ask, don’t assume: “Dating” might just mean texting or walking to class together—so ask what it means to them. Help them reflect, not rebel: Instead of telling them who not to date, ask how that person makes them feel. Model real-life lessons: You don’t have to be perfect—just honest. Your own dating history can be a powerful teaching tool.   🎧❤️ 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 First Love: Guiding Teens Through Relationships and Heartbreak by Lisa A. Phillips 🛒 Use Discount Code: RLFANDF30 for 30% off 🔗 Buy the book here   CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Lisa A. Phillips Website: lisaamyphillips.com Instagram: @lisaamyphillips18 Facebook: lisa.a.phillips.73 LinkedIn: lisa-a-phillips-978a78124   CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST: Dr. Cam Caswell Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell YouTube: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam TikTok: @the.teen.translator Facebook: @DrCamCaswell   EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 Navigating Teen Relationships: A New Era 02:57 Understanding Parental Fears in Teen Dating 06:03 The Importance of Validating Teen Emotions 09:09 Setting Boundaries: When Teens Want to Date 11:55 Over-Enmeshment: Balancing Relationships and Independence 14:50 Building Self-Worth Beyond Romantic Attention 17:56 Handling Unfavorable Partners: A Delicate Approach 24:22 Navigating Difficult Conversations with Teens 27:33 Understanding Teen Relationships and Parental Influence 30:19 Conflict Resolution in Teen Relationships 33:19 Coping with Breakups: Supporting Teens in Pain 36:59 The Importance of Reflection and Growth 40:19 First Loves: Shaping Future Relationships   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. #parentingteens #teenrelationships

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• Setting Boundaries Your Teen Will Actually Respect

  If setting boundaries with your teen feels like trying to nail Jell-O to a wall—you’re not alone. In this episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, I sit down with Matilda Gosling, social scientist and author of Teenagers: The Evidence Base, to break down the science behind boundary-setting that actually works. No more power struggles. No more guessing games. Just real, research-backed strategies to help you protect your teen and prepare them for the real world. Matilda brings both the data and the empathy, helping parents understand where to draw the line, when to back off, and how to keep the relationship strong while doing it. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Am I being too strict? Too lenient?”—this episode is your answer. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE Why boundaries help teens feel safe, not smothered How to focus on the rules that really matter (and ditch the ones that don’t) The difference between control and influence—and why one actually works How to set your own boundaries without feeling guilty or selfish 5 KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR PARENTS OF TEENS Prioritize the big stuff: Health, safety, and emotional well-being come first. Let go of the small battles. Your boundaries matter too: You’re allowed to have limits—and your teen needs to see them. Respect their privacy: Snooping leads to secrets. Trust builds openness. Explain, don’t dictate: When teens understand the why, they’re more likely to follow through. Mistakes are part of the process: Boundaries aren’t about perfection—they’re about growth. 🎧❤️ 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 Matilda Gosling's Substack (Sign up to get a free PDF Q&A on teen mental health!) Book: Teenagers: The Evidence Base by Matilda Gosling Book: The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt   CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Matilda Gosling Website: matildagosling.substack.com Instagram: @matilda.gosling LinkedIn: Matilda Gosling X/Twitter: @matildagosling   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 Boundaries 02:59 The Importance of Independence 05:48 Defining Boundaries vs. Rules 09:04 Negotiating Boundaries with Teens 12:02 Common Mistakes Parents Make 15:02 The Role of Safetyism 18:08 Respecting Teen Privacy 20:56 Identifying Important Boundaries 23:46 Setting Parental Boundaries 27:06 The Importance of Modeling Behavior 29:57 Navigating Emotional Responses 32:49 Final Thoughts on 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 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 #parentingteenswithdrcam #teenboundaries #parentingteens

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• Real Talk: 3 Moms Share What Finally Worked to Reconnect with Their Teens

  In this powerful and heartfelt episode, Dr. Cam sits down with three courageous moms—Heather, Lara, and Maria—who open up about the emotional rollercoaster of raising teens through tough issues like self-harm, emotional regulation struggles, vaping, and academic burnout. These women, all members of Dr. Cam’s Inner Circle, share what it was like before they found support, and how everything changed when they stopped trying to control their teens and started learning how to truly connect. If you’re feeling frustrated, scared, or unsure how to help your teen without pushing them away, this episode offers real hope and practical guidance from parents who’ve been there.   WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE How to reconnect with your teen when communication has broken down Why letting go of control can strengthen your relationship with your teenager The impact of emotional regulation challenges on teen behavior—and how to respond What a supportive parenting community can do for your confidence and peace of mind   5 KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR PARENTS OF TEENS Letting go of control builds trust and makes space for connection with your teen Choosing one parenting value helps guide consistent, intentional responses Allowing natural consequences helps teens learn from experience without constant lecturing Empathetic listening without jumping in to fix builds emotional safety Having a parenting support group offers relief, encouragement, and real-life strategies   🎧❤️ 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 Dr. Cam's Inner Circle - A weekly support group for parents of teenagers where they can share challenges, learn strategies, and receive guidance from Dr. Cam and other parents. Join us at: https://www.askdrcam.com/innercircle   CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST: Dr. Cam Caswell Website: AskDrCam.com Instagram: @DrCamCaswell TikTok: @the.teen.translator YouTube: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Facebook: @DrCamCaswell   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 #drcam #parentingteensupport #reconnectwithyourteen

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