Parenting teenagers today comes with unique challenges—from social media pressures to nonstop screen time. In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino sits down with Rachel Kelly, bestselling author of The Gift of Teenagers: Connect More, Worry Less, mental health advocate, journalist, and mother of five.
Explore how hormonal changes, online influences, and modern pressures affect teenage mental health, emotional growth, and relationships. Learn practical strategies for balancing independence with guidance and having calm, meaningful conversations with your teen.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
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Techniques for managing teen mood swings and emotional shifts
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The effects of cyberbullying and online pressures on mental health
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How to teach consent and foster healthy relationships in a digital world
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Strategies for building trust and improving communication with your adolescent
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Why focusing on your teen’s strengths strengthens your parent–teen bond
RACHEL KELLY
Mental health writer
Keynote speaker
Journalist
Best selling author of 5 books
Author, The Gift of Teenagers: Connect More, Worry Less.
Mother of five
“Believe in yourself. The very best thing you can do for your teenagers is to be aligned and true to your values. From that place you’ll have a great connection — and may even enjoy them as a gift.”