Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam

Parenting Teens Got You Stressed? šļø Dr. CamāThe Teen TranslatorāHas Answers! Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is the go-to podcast for parents who are ready to get real about raising teenagers. Hosted by Dr. Cam Caswellāadolescent psychologist, certified parenting coach, and mom of a teenāthis podcast is all about honest conversations that dive deep into the challenges parents face and providing actionable solutions that actually work. Dr. Cam doesnāt just talk theoriesāshe shares real-life insights and strategies based on over a decade of experience and the struggles she faces as a mom herself. Every episode offers practical, science-backed solutions to help you understand your teen, improve communication, and build a stronger relationship. Whether youāre dealing with mood swings, defiance, anxiety, or social media issues, youāll find easy-to-apply advice that makes a difference. No interviews hereājust authentic conversations that get to the heart of what parents are really dealing with. With a mix of expert tips and Dr. Camās own relatable stories, youāll walk away with the tools you need to tackle even the toughest teen challenges with confidence. #Parenting #ParentingTips #ParentingAdvice #ParentingLife #ParentingSupport #TeenParenting #Teenagers #RaisingTeens #ParentingTeens #TeenBehavior #TeenCommunication #TeenMotivation #TeenDevelopment #AdolescentDevelopment #ParentTeenConnection #TeenMentalHealth #DrCam #TheTeenTranslator
Parenting Teens Got You Stressed? šļø Dr. CamāThe Teen TranslatorāHas Answers! Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is the go-to podcast for parents who are ready to get real about raising teenagers. Hosted by Dr. Cam Caswellāadolescent psychologist, certified parenting coach, and mom of a teenāthis podcast is all about honest conversations that dive deep into the challenges parents face and providing actionable solutions that actually work. Dr. Cam doesnāt just talk theoriesāshe shares real-life insights and strategies based on over a decade of experience and the struggles she faces as a mom herself. Every episode offers practical, science-backed solutions to help you understand your teen, improve communication, and build a stronger relationship. Whether youāre dealing with mood swings, defiance, anxiety, or social media issues, youāll find easy-to-apply advice that makes a difference. No interviews hereājust authentic conversations that get to the heart of what parents are really dealing with. With a mix of expert tips and Dr. Camās own relatable stories, youāll walk away with the tools you need to tackle even the toughest teen challenges with confidence. #Parenting #ParentingTips #ParentingAdvice #ParentingLife #ParentingSupport #TeenParenting #Teenagers #RaisingTeens #ParentingTeens #TeenBehavior #TeenCommunication #TeenMotivation #TeenDevelopment #AdolescentDevelopment #ParentTeenConnection #TeenMentalHealth #DrCam #TheTeenTranslator
Episodes
Episodes



Sep 29, 2026
Sep 29, 2026
38 min
When a teen gets defiant or starts with the back talk, most of us push harder. More rules, louder voice, fewer explanations. And the harder we push, the further they pull away or shut down completely.
š Want to stay in charge without the yelling? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents trade shouting for calm, earn their teen's respect, and go from walking on eggshells to enjoying their teen again. Try it free for 7 days at askdrcam.com/academy
José Rolón, known as NYC Gay Dad, raised his son and twin daughters as a single dad for ten years. He's the first LGBTQ dad on the cover of Parents Latina and co-host of the Love Take Two podcast. In this episode, he shares how he stays strict and fair without the yelling.
Ā
IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL LEARN HOW TO:
Find the one setting where a teen who won't talk finally opens up
Understand the real reason your disrespectful teen goes from 0 to 100
Know what to say instead of "because I said so" when defiance hits
Use the one thing that earns your teen's respect faster than stricter rules
Ā
RESOURCES MENTIONED
José Rolón: @NYCGayDad
Love Take Two podcast
Ā
CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL
Website: AskDrCam.com
Instagram: @DrCamCaswellĀ
Ā
ABOUT THE SHOW
Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen.
ā If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show.
š Follow the show so you never miss an episode.
Thanks for listening. See you next week!
Dr. Cam
Sep 29, 2026
38 min



Sep 22, 2026
Sep 22, 2026
34 min
"I'm only trying to help, but every question makes my teen go quieter."
When your teen won't talk, what looks like defiance may be a sign they don't feel heard. The harder we push, fix, or force connection, the further they often pull away or shut down.
š Want your teen to open up to you again? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn what to say when their teen shuts down, trade guessing for calm, and go from walking on eggshells to enjoying their teen again. Try it free for 7 days
In this episode, I sit down with Rachel Martin, Chief Operating Officer of the Born This Way Foundation, co-founded by Lady Gaga and her mother, Cynthia Bissett Germanotta. Rachel shares what teens need to feel safe opening up, and how to change the conversation starting today.
If your teen's silence comes with signs of hopelessness or talk of self-harm, reach out to a mental health professional right away. In the US, call or text 988 anytime.
Ā
IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL LEARN
Why your teen shuts down when you try to help
The one thing missing when a packed schedule still feels lonely
What to do instead of forcing connection when screen time spikes
How talks about mental health can weaken or rebuild trust
Ā
EPISODE CHAPTERS
00:00 Why teens go quiet, with Rachel Martin
02:03 Inside the Born This Way Foundation
04:41 The social connection challenge for teens
06:23 Why every teen's social life looks different
08:57 What third spaces are and why teens need them
11:34 Low-pressure places where teens connect
14:36 When cost gets in the way
15:29 How unsafe environments affect teens
22:50 Building connection at home
26:34 Why teens need a trusted adult
28:57 How to talk openly about mental health
30:20 Making it a two-way relationship
31:50 Key takeaway: community and curiosity
32:31 How to connect with Rachel and the foundation
Ā
RESOURCES MENTIONED
Be There Certificate
Born This Way Foundation
Kindness in Community Fund
Ryan Bartel Foundation
Lambert House
Jack.org
Hopelab
Ā
CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL
Website: AskDrCam.com
Instagram: @DrCamCaswell
Parenting Teens Academy
Ā
ABOUT THE SHOW
Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen.
ā If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show.
š Follow the show so you never miss an episode.
Thanks for listening. See you next week!
Dr. Cam
Sep 22, 2026
34 min



Sep 15, 2026
Sep 15, 2026
33 min
Is your teen hiding things from you? It can feel like the tighter we hold on, the faster they pull away. Strict rules, phone bans, and grounding can seem like the safest way to protect our teens. But often they just teach teens to hide things better.
š Want to stay close without the power struggles? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to loosen control without losing their footing, keep their teen talking, and become the safe place their teen keeps coming back to. Try it free for 7 days
In this episode, I sit down with Zara Kadir, a child, adolescent, and family psychotherapist, parenting coach, and mom of two. Zara explains why teens don't dislike us, they dislike having an agenda pushed into every interaction. We talk about why taking the phone often backfires, what to say instead of an automatic "no," and how to respond to mistakes so your teen keeps telling you the truth.
Your job isn't to stop your teen from making mistakes. It's to be the person they call when they do. Teens need a safe home base, a place they can explore from and always come back to.
Ā
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
Why teens hide things from their parents, and what works better than more rules
What to say instead of an automatic "no"
Why taking the phone away often backfires, and how to work together instead
How to respond to mistakes so your teen keeps telling you the truth
How to rebuild trust if you've been leaning on control
Ā
EPISODE CHAPTERS
00:00 Meet Zara Kadir
02:47 What parents get wrong about teens
05:01 Why overprotecting teens backfires
07:02 How to change course as a parent
09:39 Parenting in the digital age
12:18 Supporting your teen's identity and exploration
15:24 Handling teen behavior without overreacting
18:09 How the teen brain makes decisions
20:09 Supporting teens through mistakes
22:09 Creating a safe space to explore
23:10 Balancing freedom and connection
24:22 Owning your parenting mistakes
25:00 The power of a thoughtful response
26:19 Understanding teen brain development
27:23 Teaching respect and empathy online
28:09 How to start changing your relationship
29:08 Getting into your teen's interests
30:09 Why the relationship comes first
31:04 Collaborative parenting and dialogue
32:00 Resources and final tips
Ā
RESOURCES MENTIONED
Zara's courses on awkward conversations (puberty, periods, porn, and more): use code CAM for 20% off
Ā
CONNECT WITH ZARA KADIR
Instagram: @thetherapyshed
Ā
CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL
Website: AskDrCam.com
Instagram: @DrCamCaswell
Parenting Teens Academy
Ā
ABOUT THE SHOW
Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen.
ā If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show.
š Follow the show so you never miss an episode.
Sep 15, 2026
33 min



Sep 8, 2026
Sep 8, 2026
59 min
Have you ever blamed your teen's eye rolls, impulsive choices, or big reactions on their "underdeveloped brain"? The teen brain keeps developing into the mid-20s, but that doesn't mean teens can't make good decisions. In fact, adolescence is one of the most important times for them to practice.
š Want discipline that teaches instead of backfires? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to set limits without punishment, stay calm when their teen messes up, and raise a teen who comes to them instead of hiding. Try it free for 7 days
In this episode, I sit down with psychotherapist and bestselling author Dr. Tina Payne Bryson, co-author with Dr. Dan Siegel of The Whole-Brain Child and No-Drama Discipline. We talk about what brain science can teach us about raising teens, why punishment can lead teens to hide their mistakes instead of learning from them, and why connection is the foundation for discipline, trust, and independence.
If you want to understand what's happening inside your teen's brain and respond in ways that help them grow, this episode gives you practical, science-backed strategies.
Ā
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
What teen brain development means for decision-making, empathy, impulse control, and responsibility
Why punishment and fear can lead teens to hide mistakes instead of learning from them
How to give your teen safe chances to practice decision-making and build independence
Why connection and secure attachment are the foundation for trust and better behavior
The four S's of secure attachment: safe, seen, soothed, and secure
Ā
EPISODE CHAPTERS
00:00 What brain science teaches us about teens
01:10 Parenting teens with understanding and empathy
02:43 How brain development affects teen behavior
04:09 Myths about brain maturity and responsibility
08:48 The prefrontal cortex in teens
11:59 Why practice builds skills
16:22 How to scaffold and support your teen
22:45 Mistakes and repair as learning
32:48 Building trust and secure attachment
44:55 Why relationship matters more than rules
Ā
RESOURCES MENTIONED
The Whole-Brain Child by Dr. Tina Payne Bryson and Dr. Dan Siegel
No-Drama Discipline by Dr. Tina Payne Bryson and Dr. Dan Siegel
The Power of Showing Up by Dr. Tina Payne Bryson and Dr. Dan Siegel
The Way of Play by Dr. Tina Payne Bryson and Georgie Wisen-Vincent
The Four S's of Secure Attachment: Safe, Seen, Soothed, Secure
Ā
CONNECT WITH DR. TINA PAYNE BRYSON
Website: TinaBryson.com
Instagram: @tinapaynebryson
Ā
CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL
Website: AskDrCam.com
Instagram: @DrCamCaswell
Parenting Teens Academy
Ā
ABOUT THE SHOW
Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen.
ā If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show.
š Follow the show so you never miss an episode.
Sep 8, 2026
59 min



Sep 1, 2026
Sep 1, 2026
39 min
Does it feel like you're talking to a wall? You ask, remind, repeat, and still nothing. It's easy to decide your teen is being defiant. But often, something else is going on.
š Tired of repeating yourself? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to get through without nagging, stay calm instead of reactive, and get their teen talking and listening again. Try it free for 7 days
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. R.J. Ledet, a psychiatrist trained in pediatrics, adult psychiatry, and child and adolescent psychiatry, a Navy veteran, and co-founder of The 15 White Coats. We talk about why teens tune us out, how our stress shortens our fuse, and why so much of the disrespect we dislike starts with what teens hear at home.
The fix isn't stricter rules. It's pausing before we react, building responsibility step by step, and getting curious about how our teen thinks, not how we think they should.
Ā
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
Why your teen isn't ignoring you on purpose
The simple pause that keeps you from reacting and lecturing
Why modeling teaches more than lectures, and where disrespect comes from
How asking your teen to define "respect" helps your expectations land
How to build responsibility step by step instead of all at once
Ā
EPISODE CHAPTERS
00:00 The challenges of parenting teens today
02:10 Meet Dr. R.J. Ledet
03:51 Common mistakes parents make with teens
06:00 Why self-awareness matters in parenting
08:06 Parenting under stress
10:01 The developmental stages of kids and teens
12:09 How your own upbringing shapes your parenting
14:01 Modeling and communication at home
16:02 Social media and screens
18:12 Building trust and connection with teens
19:58 Taking responsibility and caring for yourself
22:04 The power of pausing
24:00 Managing expectations and responsibility
26:01 Love, respect, and understanding
27:59 From control to connection
29:56 Final thoughts and key takeaways
Ā
CONNECT WITH DR. R.J. LEDET
Instagram: @DrRussellLedet
Organization: The 15 White Coats
Ā
CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL
Website: AskDrCam.com
Instagram: @DrCamCaswell
Parenting Teens Academy
Ā
ABOUT THE SHOW
Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen.
ā If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show.
š Follow the show so you never miss an episode.
Sep 1, 2026
39 min



Aug 18, 2026
Aug 18, 2026
52 min
Stop Overparenting: What Your Teen Actually Needs to Thrive | John Fogle
Are you constantly worrying about your teen's grades, screen time, choices, or attitude? It's easy to get caught up in the small stuff when you're trying to set your teen up for success. But some of the things parents work hardest to control may actually get in the way of the skills teens need most.
In this episode, Dr. Cam sits down with parenting researcher, data analyst, and author John Fogle to explore what really matters when raising teens. Together, they discuss why overprotecting teens can increase anxiety, how age-appropriate independence builds resilience, and why a strong parent-teen relationship is more protective than constant rules and monitoring. If you're exhausted from trying to keep your teen on the "right" path, this episode will help you step back from fear-based parenting and focus on raising a capable, confident adult who knows they can always come to you when things go wrong.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE
Why focusing too much on grades, screens, and minor behavior can distract from what your teen actually needs
How overprotecting and controlling teens can unintentionally increase anxiety and reduce resilience
Why age-appropriate freedom, risk, and mistakes are essential for developing confidence and problem-solving skills
How to become the parent your teen trusts enough to call when they're in trouble
š§ā¤ļø 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! šš«
š Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE so you never miss another solution-packed episode! š
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
Punishment Free Parenting by John Fogle
Whole Parent Membership Platform: myparentlab.com
Whole Parent Academy: wholeparentacademy.com
Whole Parent Podcast
The Danish Way of Parenting by Jessica Joelle Alexander
CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: John Fogle
Website: wholeparentacademy.com
Membership: myparentlab.com
Instagram: @WholeParent
Facebook: @WholeParent
TikTok: @WholeParent
YouTube: Whole Parent
Podcast: Whole Parent Podcast
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 Introduction: Rethinking Parenting Priorities
00:27 Meet John Fogle: Parenting Researcher and Author
01:20 Why We Overfocus on Small Stuff
02:20 The Role of Grades in Teen Anxiety
03:09 Success and Happiness Beyond Academic Achievements
04:04 The Myth of Boundaries and Rules
05:03 What Really Matters in Teen Development
05:59 Parents' Goals for Their Kids at Different Ages
06:29 Parenting for the Long Term
07:29 The Value of Diverse Experiences
09:14 The Power of Relationships and Communication
11:28 Parenting Beyond Control: The Ecosystem of Support
13:54 The Impact of Societal Changes on Teen Mental Health
16:44 Historical Lessons: The Great Leap Forward and Sparrows
18:34 The Cost of Overprotection and Control
20:47 Building Trust and Resilience in Teens
23:31 The Reality of Teen Screen Use and Digital Skills
26:57 The Decline of Autonomy and Its Effects
29:36 The Power of Parental Relationship and Support
33:26 Teen Behavior: Normal Developmental Challenges
36:27 The Importance of Community and Support Networks
38:15 Parenting as a Long-Term Investment
40:10 Simple, Effective Parenting Strategies
42:49 Listening to Teens and Building Trust
44:58 The Value of Risk and Resilience
48:49 Real-Life Examples of Risk and Growth
50:31 Final Words of Wisdom for Parents
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 #TeenResilience #Overparenting
Aug 18, 2026
52 min



Aug 11, 2026
Aug 11, 2026
42 min
Are you constantly battling your teen over their phone? With worries about screen time, social media, and teen mental health everywhere, taking the phone away can feel like the only way to protect them. But what if the phone isn't the root of the problem?
š Tired of fighting about phones? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to set phone limits without the daily battles, stay calm when their teen pushes back, and get their teen talking to them again. Try it free for 7 days
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, a school psychologist, therapist, nervous system regulation expert, and author of The Dysregulated Kid. We talk about why teens turn to their phones to escape uncomfortable feelings, why restricting screen time alone doesn't teach healthy coping skills, and how calm, clear boundaries and connection help teens build emotional resilience.
If phones have become a constant source of conflict in your home, this episode gives you a different approach, one that focuses on what's driving the behavior, not just the screen.
Ā
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
Why your teen's phone use may be a sign of stress and dysregulation, not the real problem
How your own calm shapes the way your teen responds to boundaries and conflict
Why connection and clear boundaries work better than surveillance and constant restrictions
The Love Pause, a three-second habit that stops phone fights before they start
Practical ways to help your teen build healthier coping skills than scrolling
EPISODE CHAPTERS
00:00 Why phones feel like the enemy
02:01 How teens use phones to cope, and the risks
04:06 How phones affect sleep and emotional health
07:10 Passive scrolling and emotional dysregulation
09:53 Rising mental health struggles and what dysregulation looks like
15:00 Setting phone boundaries that work
19:59 Why teens need space and independence
25:11 Why surveillance backfires, and how to build trust
30:01 Teaching teens to handle technology and online predators
35:12 Why your calm matters most
39:58 The Love Pause and other calming strategies
42:03 How to connect with Dr. Roseann
Ā
RESOURCES MENTIONED
The Dysregulated Kid: A Practical Playbook by Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge
Regulation First Parenting
The CALMS System
The Love Pause
Ā
CONNECT WITH DR. ROSEANN CAPANNA-HODGE
Website: DrRoseann.com
Program: Regulation First Parenting
Ā
CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL
Website: AskDrCam.com
Instagram: @DrCamCaswell
Parenting Teens Academy
Ā
ABOUT THE SHOW
Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen.
ā If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show.
š Follow the show so you never miss an episode.
Aug 11, 2026
42 min



Aug 3, 2026
Aug 3, 2026
45 min
Why does your teen trigger you so fast? One eye roll, one tone, and suddenly you're reacting in ways you swore you never would. It's easy to focus on changing your teen's behavior. But many of us carry wounds from our own childhood that shape how we respond to conflict, criticism, and connection with our teens.
š Want to stay calm when your teen pushes your buttons? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to respond instead of react, repair after hard moments, and build the secure relationship they wish they'd had. Try it free for 7 days
In this episode, I sit down with Eli Harwood, a licensed therapist, attachment expert, and bestselling author known as Attachment Nerd. We talk about how generational trauma repeats itself in families, why secure attachment doesn't require perfect parenting, and how balancing softness with sturdiness helps teens grow into confident, independent adults.
The good news: you don't have to get it right every time. You have to be willing to repair.
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
How wounds from your own childhood show up when your teen triggers you
Why secure attachment comes from softness and sturdiness, not perfection
Why you only need to get it right some of the time
How to repair after you lose it, and why the U-turn matters
How to stop repeating generational patterns, and where to find support
EPISODE CHAPTERS
00:00 What attachment means for parents of teens
02:58 Why we have to deal with our own stuff
06:05 Letting go of shame in parenting
08:58 When parents lean on teens for their emotional needs
12:00 Hearing feedback from your teen
14:59 How defensiveness hurts the relationship
17:57 Building trust with your teen
22:09 How to respond instead of react
24:37 Why teens need both structure and nurture
26:56 Keeping trust and connection strong
29:12 Understanding teen development
32:22 Embracing the messiness of adolescence
34:51 Why parents need community
37:12 Finding support and healing
39:11 The power of connection and attachment
RESOURCES MENTIONED
How to Deal with Your Sh*t So Your Kids Don't Have To by Eli Harwood
Securely Attached by Eli Harwood
Attachment Nerd Secure Parent Program
CONNECT WITH ELI HARWOOD
Website: AttachmentNerd.com
Instagram: @AttachmentNerd
Facebook: @AttachmentNerd
YouTube: Attachment Nerd
CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL
Website: AskDrCam.com
Instagram: @DrCamCaswell
Parenting Teens Academy
ABOUT THE SHOW
Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen.
ā If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show.
š Follow the show so you never miss an episode.
Aug 3, 2026
45 min



Jul 21, 2026
Jul 21, 2026
43 min
Do conversations with your teen often turn into arguments, silence, or frustration? Many of us try to help by giving advice, solving problems, or closely managing our teen's life. But those well-meant efforts can push teens away.
š Ready to stop the power struggles? Inside Parenting Teens Academy, parents learn to step back without checking out, listen instead of lecture, and become the person their teen wants to come to. Try it free for 7 days
In this episode, I sit down with JoAnn Crohn, a certified parent coach, bestselling author, and host of the No Guilt Mom podcast. We talk about why overparenting is often driven by fear, how curiosity builds more connection than control, and why your own happiness as a parent matters more than you might think.
If you're ready to stop the power struggles and build a relationship where your teen wants to come to you, this episode is full of practical strategies and eye-opening insights.
Ā
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
How overparenting and anxiety can push your teen away
Why curiosity builds trust faster than lectures
How to validate your teen's feelings without trying to fix every problem
Simple ways to encourage independence while strengthening your relationship
Why your own happiness plays a bigger role than you think
Ā
EPISODE CHAPTERS
00:00 The parent-teen dynamic
02:54 Why your happiness matters
06:00 Handling pressure and expectations as a parent
08:52 How overparenting backfires
12:00 Managing emotions and validating your teen
15:01 Social media in teen life
22:48 Bullying and social media
24:30 A parent's role in digital safety
26:39 Why teens need connection in a digital age
29:57 Building trust and communication with teens
32:43 Observing vs. instructing
36:38 Encouraging independence and curiosity
41:49 Handling relationship misunderstandings
Ā
RESOURCES MENTIONED
The Best Mom Is a Happy Mom by JoAnn Crohn
No Guilt Mom Podcast
Ā
CONNECT WITH JOANN CROHN
Website: NoGuiltMom.com
Instagram: @NoGuiltMom
Podcast: No Guilt Mom
Ā
CONNECT WITH DR. CAM CASWELL
Website: AskDrCam.com
Instagram: @DrCamCaswell
Parenting Teens Academy
Ā
ABOUT THE SHOW
Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam is hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach. Each episode gives you practical strategies, expert advice, and real-world insight to build a stronger relationship with your teen.
ā If this episode helped, share it with a parent who needs it and leave a rating and review. It helps other parents find the show.
š Follow the show so you never miss an episode.
Jul 21, 2026
43 min



Jul 14, 2026
Jul 14, 2026
37 min
Parenting Anxious Teens: How to Build Confidence Instead of Fear | Dana Colthart
Does your teen avoid challenges, shut down under pressure, or constantly seek reassurance? It can be hard to know whether they're simply nervous or struggling with anxietyāand many of the ways parents naturally try to help can actually make anxiety worse.
In this episode, Dr. Cam sits down with licensed clinical social worker Dana Colthart, who specializes in treating OCD, anxiety, panic disorders, and eating disorders, to discuss practical strategies for supporting anxious teens. Together, they explain why avoidance strengthens anxiety, how parents can validate their teen's fears without reinforcing them, and what it really takes to build resilience and confidence. If you're tired of watching your teen struggle and wondering how to help without making things worse, this episode offers expert guidance and actionable tools.
Ā
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE
How to recognize when your teen's anxiety has become avoidanceāand why that matters
Why reassurance and accommodation often make teen anxiety worse instead of better
How to validate your teen's fears while helping them build confidence through discomfort
Simple parenting strategies that support resilience without increasing anxiety
Ā
š§ā¤ļø 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! šš«
š Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE so you never miss another solution-packed episode! š
Ā
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Cognitive Diffusion
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
Ā
CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Dana Colthart
Website: https://www.danacolthart.com
Practice: Clear Light Therapy New Jersey
Ā
CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST: Dr. Cam Caswell
Website: askdrcam.com
Instagram: @DrCamCaswell
TikTok: @the.teen.translator
YouTube: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam
Facebook: @DrCamCaswell
Ā
EPISODE CHAPTERS
00:00 Understanding Teen Anxiety and Avoidance
02:54 The Role of Diagnosis in Treatment
05:42 Identifying and Addressing Avoidance Behaviors
08:36 Mistakes Parents Make in Supporting Anxious Teens
11:20 The Importance of Communication and Support
14:18 Navigating Self-Defeating Thoughts
17:02 The Power of Diffusion Techniques
20:02 Building Patience and Understanding
22:46 Managing Urgency and Expectations
25:32 Creating a Safe Space for Recovery
28:30 The Role of Parental Support in Treatment
31:23 Final Thoughts and Resources
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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.
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Jul 14, 2026
37 min










