The Gut–Brain Connection: Understanding GI Disorders in Kids & Teens
Did you know that your child’s stomach aches might have more to do with their mind than their meals?In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast host Lianne Castelino speaks with Dr. Ali Navidi, licensed clinical psychologist and CEO of GI Psychology, about the link between the gut and the brain — and what every parent should know.Dr. Navidi explains how gut–brain disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome IBS, functional abdominal pain, and dyspepsia can begin in early childhood, how anxiety and stress can fuel digestive symptoms, and why clinical hypnosis and CBT are proven tools to help kids heal.Learn when to seek help, how to support your child’s emotional and physical well-being, and why building safety and routine can make all the difference.Takeaways: Understanding the connection between gut health and emotional well-being is crucial for children and teens, as hormonal changes and anxiety can exacerbate GI disorders. Parents should be proactive in maintaining routines for their children, as consistency can foster independence and discipline, while avoiding the pitfalls of anxiety-driven behaviour. Open communication about feelings and body awareness is essential in helping children articulate their emotional health, particularly in relation to physical symptoms they may experience. Effective treatments for gut-brain interaction disorders include cognitive behavioural therapy and clinical hypnosis, which empower kids to manage their symptoms and improve their mental health. Links referenced in this episode:whereparentstalk.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: GI Psychology 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.
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The Real Talk: How to Prepare Your Young Adult for Life's Challenges
What should parents really be telling their kids before they leave the nest? In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to writer and mom of three, Joanne McHugh, creator of the newsletter Things Your Mom Should Have Told You.McHugh how parents can help their young adults navigate love, work, money, and life’s inevitable messiness — without lecturing or sugarcoating.She shares how her own daughters inspired her mission to offer honest, heartfelt, and practical wisdom to 20-somethings finding their footing in today’s complicated world.Key topics:Why “happy talk” can backfire when preparing kids for adulthoodHow sharing your own struggles builds stronger relationshipsTalking about dating and finances without sounding like a sermonNavigating hustle culture and burnoutHelping young adults normalize the messiness of their 20sThis 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
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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 matterThis 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
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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.comThis 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
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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 youthTakeaways: 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.comCompanies 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.
About Where Parents Talk: Evidence-based Expert Advice on Raising Kids Today
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.
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