Where Parents Talk: Evidence-based Expert Advice on Raising Kids Today

Lianne Castelino

The Where Parents Talk podcast empowers parents to navigate the challenges of raising kids, teens, and young adults today with science-backed insights, evidence, and the lived experiences of parenting thought leaders. Every Saturday, host, award-winning journalist and mom, Lianne Castelino, distills parenting hot topics with her guests, including: managing hormonal changes, fostering healthy communication, and promoting emotional, mental, and physical health and well-being of kids. Get proven tips and expert advice on addressing device usage and managing social media to the latest evidence on bullying, consent, and relationships, to help instil discipline, encourage independence, and build resilience in children. Discover trusted advice, delivered with empathy and optimism, to support your parenting journey and help your family thrive.

  1. Rethinking Gifted Education: The Role of AI, Mastery, and Life Skills

    10月4日

    Rethinking Gifted Education: The Role of AI, Mastery, and Life Skills

    In this episode of Where Parents Talk, host Lianne Castelino speaks with Pamela Hobart — philosopher coach, writer, mother of four, and gifted education advocate. Hobart shares her journey from academia to coaching, and now to her work at GT School, where AI-driven mastery learning meets life skills education for high-ability students. Drawing on her background in philosophy and coaching, Hobart explains how she helps people transform “overthinking” into wisdom and action — a process just as vital for adults facing career crossroads as it is for children navigating school. She reveals why traditional education systems often fail gifted learners, leaving them either underchallenged or burdened with “educational baggage,” and why enrichment activities like dissecting sharks or busywork projects don’t truly meet their needs. Hobart also discusses GT School, a model blending AI-powered mastery learning with life skills workshops and human guidance. Instead of measuring success by seat time or average grades, GT School prioritizes academic acceleration, emotional resilience, and practical skills such as financial literacy, teamwork, and project management. Students not only advance faster academically but also learn to embrace failure, build confidence, and develop a love of learning. Hobart unpacks common misconceptions about gifted learners, the role of AI in education, and why guides — drawn from diverse backgrounds beyond traditional teaching — are central to creating environments where children thrive. Key Takeaways: The limits of traditional educationTurning overthinking into wisdomGifted ≠ enrichmentThe role of AI in learningLife skills matter This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience. You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health. Links referenced in this episode: whereparentstalk.com

    35 分鐘
  2. Unlocking Teen Potential: Self-Regulation as a Superpower

    9月27日

    Unlocking Teen Potential: Self-Regulation as a Superpower

    Self-regulation is a superpower that can transform a teen’s emotional, social, and academic life. In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to psychologist and first-time author Dr. Cathy Wu. The former college professor and mom dives into why mastering self-regulation is essential for today’s youth—and how parents can help. From navigating technology and social pressures to fostering healthy habits and meaningful communication, Dr. Wu shares practical strategies for empowering teens to thrive. The conversation also explores insights from her new book, The Self-Regulation Handbook for Teens and Young Adults, and discover how to guide your teen toward confidence, resilience, and success. Takeaways: Self-regulation is a crucial skill for teens, impacting their emotional, social, academic, and physical development. Dr. Wu's book offers tools for teens aged 15 to 21 to navigate challenges and improve self-awareness. Parents should model healthy technology use to foster better self-regulation in their teens. Conversations about emotional well-being should be casual and led by curiosity, not judgment. Understanding the trauma-informed approach is essential for supporting teens in today's challenging environment. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) provide practical techniques for managing stress and emotions. Links referenced in this episode: whereparents talk.com This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience. You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health. Links referenced in this episode: whereparentstalk.com

    30 分鐘
  3. The Hidden Risks of Sports Betting and Gambling Ads on Youth

    9月20日

    The Hidden Risks of Sports Betting and Gambling Ads on Youth

    In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks with Dr. Shawn Kelly, pediatrician, adolescent addictions specialist, and father of two. Dr. Kelly shares why he co-authored a Canadian Medical Association Journal editorial on gambling advertising, the moment his own young son confused sports stats with betting terms, and why he sees this issue as a “Wild West” for youth health. The discussion unpacks: How repeated exposure to betting ads normalizes gambling for kidsWhy adolescent brain development makes teens especially vulnerableWarning signs parents should watch forPractical steps families can take to build media literacy and resilienceWhat policy and regulatory changes could help protect youth Takeaways: The normalization of gambling advertising can significantly alter youth perceptions of sports, making gambling seem like an integral part of enjoyment rather than a risky behaviour. Parents should actively engage in conversations with their kids about gambling, promoting media literacy to counteract the overwhelming influence of pervasive betting ads. There is a concerning rise in gambling-related issues among youth, leading to increased mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression, underlining the urgency for parental awareness. The developmental vulnerabilities of adolescents, including hormonal changes and brain maturation, make them particularly susceptible to risky behaviors like gambling. Schools and sports organizations have a critical role in educating youth about the risks of gambling and should integrate this topic into their existing substance use prevention programs. Effective regulation of gambling advertising is essential; restricting ads during youth-targeted broadcasts could significantly protect young audiences from harmful influences. Links referenced in this episode: whereparents talk.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Canadian Medical Association Journal Canadian Society of Addiction Medicine bet365 Alcohol Gaming Commission of Ontario This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience. You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.

    34 分鐘
  4. How Poor Posture Affects Kids: Screen Time, Stress, and Solutions for Parents

    9月6日

    How Poor Posture Affects Kids: Screen Time, Stress, and Solutions for Parents

    In this episode of Where Parents Talk, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Dr. Brett Hill—chiropractor, entrepreneur, and father of four teenagers—to uncover the surprising connection between posture, overall health, and parenting. Dr. Hill explains why posture is more than just “sitting up straight.” From screen time to stress management, posture plays a critical role in our children’s brain development, emotional regulation, and confidence—and it impacts parents, too. He shares practical strategies to help families improve posture at home, including easy daily check-ins, movement-based screen time rules, and small habits that make a big difference over time. Whether you’re worried about your teen’s hours hunched over a device, or you’ve caught yourself slouching through a busy day, this conversation will give you tools to boost energy, reduce stress, and model healthy habits for your kids. Tune in and learn how posture can be a simple yet powerful key to raising healthier, more confident children—while improving your own well-being as a parent. Takeaways: Understanding the profound impact of posture on our mental, emotional, and physical health is crucial, especially for parents navigating their children's developmental changes. As device usage increases, particularly among youth, it is essential to educate them about the long-term consequences of poor posture linked to social media and gaming habits. Communication about posture should extend beyond simple reminders; it must incorporate discussions about consent and independence in managing screen time effectively. Bullying related to physical appearance can be mitigated by fostering confidence through good posture, which positively influences self-esteem and emotional health. Implementing regular posture checks and movement breaks can significantly enhance mental clarity and energy levels, reducing stress and improving overall well-being. Parents should model healthy posture habits, as children often emulate adult behaviours, creating a supportive environment for both physical and emotional health. Links referenced in this episode: yourpostureprogram.comwhereparentstalk.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Experience Life Chiropractic your postureprogram.com This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience. You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.

    33 分鐘
  5. Unplugged and Unfiltered: Delaying Smartphones for Kids

    8月30日

    Unplugged and Unfiltered: Delaying Smartphones for Kids

    On this episode of theWhere Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks with Jenny Perez, entrepreneur, mother and founder of Unplugged an organization whose mission is to raise awareness about the impact of smartphones and social media on children. Perez shares her insights on how constant device use can affect physical health, emotional well-being, and family communication, while also contributing to challenges such as bullying and social isolation. Drawing from both research and lived experience, Perez discusses the benefits of delaying smartphone access until at least age 14 and emphasizes the importance of consent and independence in young people’s digital lives. The conversation explores the realities of raising children in a hyper-connected world and examines practical strategies that parents can use to foster healthier relationships with technology. The rise of smartphones and social media has profoundly impacted the emotional and mental health of our youth, highlighting the need for proactive parenting approaches. The importance of delaying smartphone access for children until they are developmentally ready, ideally around the age of 14. Incorporating a community-driven approach can empower parents to take a stand against the normalization of device usage among young children. The comparison of social media to tobacco illustrates the potential dangers of device exposure on child development and independence. The significance of communication between parents and children regarding consent and their online interactions. Parents are encouraged to seek knowledge and resources to better understand the implications of technology on their children’s physical and emotional health. Links referenced in this episode: whereparentstalk.comunpluggedcanada.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Unplugged Canada Wait Until 8 Brooke Shannon This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience. You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.

    36 分鐘
  6. Instilling Growth Mindset in Kids: Parenting Strategies, AI Tools and Expert Insights

    8月23日

    Instilling Growth Mindset in Kids: Parenting Strategies, AI Tools and Expert Insights

    In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Annie Brock and Heather Hundley—seasoned educators and co-authors of the newly revised The Growth Mindset Coach. The conversation explores how this simple yet transformative approach can reshape parenting, teaching, and the way children see themselves. They reveal practical ways parents can nurture growth at home: celebrating effort over outcomes, modelling curiosity, encouraging independence, and turning mistakes into learning opportunities. The conversation also dives into some of the most pressing challenges families face today, from managing device use and navigating social media to talking with tweens and teens about consent, healthy relationships, and emotional well-being. Brock and Hundley highlight how a growth mindset doesn’t just build resilience in kids—it strengthens family bonds, reduces bullying, and equips children with the confidence to face adolescence and beyond with clarity and hope. Takeaways: Open, honest communication helps parents guide their children through the hormonal and emotional changes of adolescence with consistency and care.Encouraging independence means teaching kids to manage devices responsibly and approach consent and relationships with respect.Fostering a growth mindset can reduce bullying, strengthen resilience, and support the emotional and mental well-being of tweens and teens.Parents who model healthy lifestyle habits provide a powerful foundation for their children’s overall well-being during challenging developmental years.Healthy use of technology requires parents to guide children in responsible social media use and help them recognize misinformation.Celebrating effort, progress, and small wins boosts children’s confidence, motivation, and love of learning. Links referenced in this episode: whereparents talk.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Carol Dweck Duolingo Khan Academy Minecraft This podcast is for parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers to learn proven strategies and trusted tips on raising kids, teens and young adults based on science, evidenced and lived experience. You’ll learn the latest on topics like managing bullying, consent, fostering healthy relationships, and the interconnectedness of mental, emotional and physical health.

    35 分鐘

簡介

The Where Parents Talk podcast empowers parents to navigate the challenges of raising kids, teens, and young adults today with science-backed insights, evidence, and the lived experiences of parenting thought leaders. Every Saturday, host, award-winning journalist and mom, Lianne Castelino, distills parenting hot topics with her guests, including: managing hormonal changes, fostering healthy communication, and promoting emotional, mental, and physical health and well-being of kids. Get proven tips and expert advice on addressing device usage and managing social media to the latest evidence on bullying, consent, and relationships, to help instil discipline, encourage independence, and build resilience in children. Discover trusted advice, delivered with empathy and optimism, to support your parenting journey and help your family thrive.