Help! I Have A Teenager
A podcast for parents navigating the challenges of raising teenagers in the modern world. Hosted by Dr. Ginni Mansberg and clinical psychologist Jo Lamble, it addresses topics like TikTok, vaping, and social media. Each week, they answer listener questions with common-sense expertise. The podcast is produced by Mamamia Podcasts.
Episodes
Cathrine Mahoney On The Teen Years And The Parenting 'Lasts' You Don't See Coming
On today’s episode, writer, comedian and host of Mamamia's 456 Club podcast, Cathrine Mahoney joins us to share her unfiltered experience of parenting a teenager. With her trademark humour, Cathrine Mahoney offers hilarious reality checks about what's coming in the teenage years from endless food bills to impossible-to-wake mornings, and the unexpected melancholy of the parenting moments you
Parents Anonymous: The Butt-Dial That Ended A Mothers' Group
Welcome to a brand new podcast from This Glorious Mess called Parents Anonymous. Part Church Confessional, part Game Show, this is where you share your deepest, darkest parenting confessions to get that guilt off your chest. We'll score each confession, and here at parents anonymous, the worst parenting moment wins the most points. To kick things off, we have three juicy secrets: a butt dial gone
Parents Anonymous: Killing Off Santa
Is it a confession or deep respect to a parent who kills off Santa, The Tooth Fairy AND The Easter Bunny in just one conversation. We're leaning towards respect. Plus a mother who made the mistake of trying to enjoy herself at the beach with toddlers. You can share your best worst parenting stories by leaving us a voice note, email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au or for super shame super
Little Love Stories: A Love Letter To My Body Post Mastectomy
Kris O’Neill has a love letter to two girls who she misses terribly, her breasts. After being diagnosed with breast cancer almost two years ago, Kris made the choice to go flat. A complex journey wrapped up in fear, celebration and survival. Kris is now on a mission to change the perceptions of mastectomy. Talking to anyone who has gone flat or foob, or supporting someone who has, to help fi
Parents Anonymous: The Macgyver Adult Diaper
In this weeks Parents Anonymous we got quite a shock when a super embarrassing toilet dilemma was revealed to be the secret shame of our very own Stacey Hicks! However, we're quite impressed at her ingenuity. Brace for shock and wow Please share your shameful secrets by leaving us a voice note, email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au or for super shame super anonymous you can pop them in this form. P
Parents Anonymous: My Baby's Head Is Also A Plate
On this episode, we uncover how a mystery rash is actually tied to last night’s dinner, a parent who’s taking "work from home" to a whole new level, and meet a mum who’s embracing sleep deprivation—for a surprising new reason. You can share your best worst parenting stories by leaving us a voice note, email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au or for super shame super anonymous y
Parents Anonymous: When You Fail At Year 2 Math
Is gaslighting a toddler ever okay? We are divided on this episode of Parents Anonymous - which might just be our most outrageous yet. From failed homework to divorce celebration we are dishing out our judgement-free judgement on your biggest parenting confessions and sharing ours as well. Please share your shameful secrets by leaving us a voice note, email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au or for super sh
Parents Anonymous: Baby Proof… And Also Adult Proof
Today's Parents Anonymous dives into another three deliciously embarrassing confessions: a baby locked in the car sparks a lasting daycare shame, one parent confesses to dodging one-on-one time with their child, and childproofing materials prove smarter than the adults trying to navigate them. You can share your best worst parenting stories by leaving us a voice note, email us at tgm@mamamia.com.a
This Glorious Mess - The Ambulance That Didn’t Need To Be Called
On this weeks episode of Parents Anonymous, a gushy Facebook post has a parent questioning their entire existence. Bribery is ALWAYS in the parenting toolkit. Plus a PA theme has started to emerge with parents ringing the emergency services, possibly wasting their time. Much to unpack. Please share your shameful secrets by leaving us a voice note, email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au or for
This Glorious Mess: The Cupcake Fraud
A parent keeps a close eye on the gifts coming into the house—it might feel like extra admin, but it's undeniably clever. Speaking of clever, one mum has cracked the code for those insufferable "home-baked treats" requests at school fetes. And, in an impressive feat, a couple transforms into wizard-like time lords to carve out more alone time. You can share your best worst parenting stories
Little Love Stories: The Power And Beauty Of A Birth Right
Introducing This Glorious Mess' series "Little Love Stories". In this episode we delve into an important love letter to identity, culture, and belonging. Natasha Lucas has found her place in world through deep connection with her Aboriginal heritage. In a country where only 3.8% of the population identifies as Aboriginal, Natasha’s journey is one of discovering pride, strength, and sis
Little Love Stories: If I Could Call My Best Friend Cal Wilson
Have you ever felt that instant spark of friendship with someone new? That’s exactly what happened when comedian Damian Callinan met Cal Wilson in the early 2000s. In this episode of Little Love Stories, we remember the vibrant Kiwi comedian, Cal Wilson, who passed away nearly a year ago. Damian reflects on their friendship, their collaborations on shows like Skit House, and the honour of be
Little Love Stories: Only Saying Yes To The Joy
Before you become “Mum” or “Dad,” you're just you—with a first name, a spontaneous social life, and the freedom to pursue your career ambitions with no limits, even if that means sometimes working 20-hour days. That was the life of today's guest, Bec Bignell, before she became a parent. Bec pushed herself to give 100% to both her career and her role as a parent, but e
Little Love Stories: Three Daughters, One Bond
Parenthood is life-changing, but for today’s guest, Anna Water-Massey, it came with both joy and deep loss. At 30, Anna became a mother to Cleo, and a year later, she lost her own mother to cancer. Despite the heartbreak, Anna shares the incredible bond she’s built with Cleo—a connection that continues to grow, especially now that Cleo has become a mother herself to baby Indigo.
Little Love Stories: Libby Trickett’s Hardest Day Wasn’t In The Pool
What comes to mind when you hear 'strong'? Maybe muscles or physical strength? But, what about mental strength and resilience? You may know Olympian Libby Trickett as Libby Lenton. She became a house hold name in the early 2000s swimming for Australia. Libby wasn’t prepared for a different type of strength she would need once she’d retire from swimming. Like many new parents, Lib
Little Love Stories: Two Siblings, One Kidney & The Ultimate Act of Sisterhood
The bond between sisters is a unique mix of fierce loyalty and the ability to argue over just about anything. But when someone you love is in danger, that bond becomes unwavering. In this episode of Little Love Stories, we explore the extraordinary bond between sisters Grace and Lil O'Connell. When Lil fell critically ill with meningococcal disease on Christmas Day 2017, her life was on the line.
10 Simple Hacks To Get Your Time Back
A few weeks ago, on our parenting podcast This glorious Mess, we dove into the topic of end-of-year overwhelm, and so many listeners shared they were feeling the exact same way! With endless to-do lists, days that feel too short, and barely a moment to breathe, finding time for yourself can feel impossible. That’s why we’ve put together some simple, practical hacks to help you reclaim
Holiday Gift Guide: Kids & Teens
Struggling to shop for the little kids or ever-changing teens in your life? We’ve done the hard work for you. From must-haves for toddlers to trending gifts for TikTok-obsessed teens, this episode breaks it all down to make your shopping stress-free. LINKS TO EVERYTHING MENTIONED: Watch us on Youtube KIDS Boujee: Mason Pearson Pocket Bristle & Nylon Hairbrush $196 Honeysticks
Mum Guilt Can Get In The Bin
Mum guilt—it's something most of us have heard about. But what about Dad guilt? Does it exist? Annaliese and Tegan take a deep dive into their own experiences with Mum guilt, exploring where it stems from. To get the Dad perspective, they brought back resident dad Thom Lion to share whether dads feel the same weight of guilt. Plus, a few of Mamamia's own dads shared their honest take... The result
Do You Have End Of Year Overwhelm?
Is everyone tired? It's getting to that time of year where everything starts to get a bit hard. It may be the last week of November but it feels like the year has been dragging and the silly season can bring out some season overwhelm. On this episode of parenting podcast This Glorious Mess, Annaliese and Tegan turn to Lauren Thornborough, co-founder of The Village—a network designed to empower and
Is Your Relationship In The Room-Mate Phase
Your kids might be a bit older, and you’re back in the routine of life—work, kids, chores—but how’s your relationship? Has it started to feel more like you’re roommates than partners? Before you know it, you might find yourselves in the "roommate phase." In this episode of This Glorious Mess, we explore the telltale signs of this phase and share tips on how to reconnect. We're also joined by a da
Introducing... Little Love Stories
Welcome to a brand new podcast from This Glorious Mess called Little Love Stories. Little Love Stories is an open-hearted conversation with someone who has love and gratitude to share, whether it's about a person, an object, or an event. In this first episode, This Glorious Mess co-host Annaliese Todd shares the love story she wrote to herself. No one plans on becoming a single parent, but through
Introducing...This Glorious Mess
We need to talk about sleep. Not your kids sleep - YOUR sleep. Introducing This Glorious Mess the parenting podcast that's just had a major glowup. In this very special sleep episode hosts Tegan Natoli and Annaliese Todd share how the mental load impacts their sleep, and discuss how a "sleep divorce" could be the key to a good nights rest. Annaliese speaks to a sleep expert, leading to her full me
What We’ve Learned Since The Start Of This Podcast
We know teenagers are going through a lot, but they often don’t open up to us about it. After reading an article about what it’s like to be a teenager in 2024, we have some insight for any confused parents. Plus, seeing your kids fight can be really tough. So, what do you do when they both come to you to complain? And, how can you help them build a positive relationship with each other? And finall
“Infidelity Ended My Marriage: Should I Tell My Teen?”
Parenting groups want to hold off on giving teens phones to protect them from disturbing online content. But does this risk making them feel left out? Ginni and Jo tackle the big conversation about teens and screens. Plus, parents separate for all sorts of reasons, but how do you talk to your kids about it when infidelity is involved? We discuss the best way to handle this tough topic. THE END BIT
The Signs Your Teen Could Have An Anxiety Disorder
Our teens get anxious about a lot of things; their body image, to school stress and fitting in socially. But how can you tell if it’s regular worry or something more serious like an anxiety disorder? We discuss. Plus, creating family traditions is so important for connection. So, Ginni and Jo share what they do in their families, and other ideas you might want to try out. THE END BITS Subscribe t
How To Help Your Teen Stop Worrying About Cozzie Livs
As parents, we often fret over how much time our kids spend on social media or with friends, but they have bigger worries. Ginni and Jo discuss the differences in worries between teenagers and parents, and how we can bridge that gap in understanding. And, is your teen mumbling? We give advice on how to help teens communicate better when they want to be heard. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia Li
Unpopular Opinion: Parenting Teens Is Tougher Than Newborns
The sleepless nights, the expensive feeding, the mess... Just when you thought you were done with those years, your child becomes a teenager. This episode we discuss all the things that surprised us about becoming parents of teens and why we found those to be the hardest years. Plus, what happens when your teen starts to distance themselves? Ginni and Jo share their insights and tips on fostering
BONUS: How To Have The Difficult Conversations That Keep Your Kids Safe
A heads up: This episode discusses child sexual abuse and may be better to listen to with headphones if little ears are around. As parents, we know that conversations with our kids, regardless of age, can sometimes go in one ear and out the other. But sometimes, there is a conversation so important that we must make sure it sticks. In this special episode, Tegan Natoli, host of 'This Glorious Mess
What You Probably Don’t Realise About Your Teens Brain
As our teens start looking more like adults, should we expect them to start acting like adults too? Ginni and Jo dive into teenage brain development and share tips for handling moments when emotions take over. And, when it comes time for a family vacations should you make your teens join even if they're not keen? Our host's opinions are a little bit controversial this time around. THE END BITS Su
What To Do (And Not Do) When Your Teen Won’t Go To School
Are you noticing your teen becoming more hesitant about going to school lately? The growing number of school refusals is becoming alarming. Luckily, we've got some tips to help encourage them to attend. Plus, a dilemma involving a teenage girl who doesn't enjoy staying at her dad's house. But does she legally have to go? We discuss. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia Listen: ‘Hits Different, Pop
Why Your Teen Smells Like Goat, According To A Doctor
Have you ever stepped into your teen's room and caught a whiff of cheese, wax, or even a hint of goat? You're not alone! Ginni delves into the science behind why teens, especially boys, have a unique scent. Plus, we share our top tips for introducing your kids to a new partner in a way that takes the pressure off and makes it a smooth experience. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia Listen: ‘Hits D
The Psychology Of Mum Guilt & How To Fight It
We hear all the time how parents are being struck by 'mum guilt' but what's the psychology behind it? Clinical Psychologist Jo Lamble breaks it down and gives her tips on how we can manage it. Plus, when your teenager starts neglecting their friends after getting into a relationship, should you intervene? Or is that overstepping? We discuss. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia Want something els
‘Hits Different, Pop Off, Rizz’: Why Is My Teen Speaking Another Language?
Feeling lost in your teenager's slang-filled conversations? You're not the only one. So, we've enlisted our very own Gen Z to explain them, so you can finally understand what your teenager is saying. And, if your teen still isn't keen on fruits and vegetables, Ginni and Jo discuss ways to help them get over their anxieties so they can start getting the nutrients they need. THE END BITS Subscribe
Does Your Teen Genuinely Need A Mental Health Day?
When do mental health days start to feel too frequent? Ginni and Jo are all for giving teens a break from school now and then, but how can we tell if they genuinely need it? We discuss. Also, have you heard about the free events for teenagers during Youth Week? Our hosts share tips on how parents can encourage teens to join in on positive activities without feeling embarrassed. THE END BITS Subsc
Your Teen’s Growing Up; It’s Time To Rediscover Yourself
As parents, we often lose touch with ourselves while focusing on our kids. Then, as they grow up and move out, finding our purpose and identity again can be a challenge. Ginni and Jo share tips on rediscovering yourself as your teens gain independence. Also, we have advice on navigating interactions with the parents of your child’s friends that you may not see eye to eye with. THE END BITS Subscr
How To Stop Your Teen From Sneaking Out
Finding used tissues and bottles of lube in your teen’s room? Masturbation is a normal part of adolescence, so naturally, your teenager is probably exploring it. But we parents shouldn't be left with the mess, so we advise on how to address it. And, if your teen is pushing boundaries constantly, just ignoring them won't help. We help you find you the guide rails to put in place and what your next
Teens & Politics: What Happens When You Don’t Agree
Teenagers today often have different political views to us, it’s a generational thing. But when these differences strain our relationship with our kids, it’s important to have some skills up your sleeve to find a mutual understanding and respect. In this episode, Ginni and Jo advise a teenager facing this dilemma at home. And, if you’re stuck for dinner table conversation starters with your kids,
The Safety Talk To Have With Your Teen Before Their First Festival
If your teenager is a fan of Taylor Swift, (a Swiftie) we think it might be time to embrace the craze! This episode Ginni and Jo dive into how to make the most of the Eras Tour hype. Whether you’re going, have already been or couldn’t snag tickets - turns out it can become a huge bonding experience between you and your teen. And, before your child heads off to their first festival or concert witho
No, It’s Not Selfish To Make Yourself A Priority
We’re celebrating our 100th episode of Help! I Have A Teenager! As we mark this occasion, it’s a good opportunity to remember that we parents need some TLC too, just like our teens. So what can you do to self-care? Plus, Dr Ginni chimes in with some helpful advice on managing bedwetting in teens. There are actually a bunch of practical tricks to help them break that habit. THE END BITS Subscribe
How To Talk To Your Teen About Their Sexuality
Do you remember going to school as a teenager and feeling the pressure of Valentine’s Day, stressing that no one would want to be your Valentine? Kids today feel that same pressure, so in this episode we share our tips on how to help them. Plus, how do you best support your teen if they’re questioning their sexuality? Our hosts have advice on how you can handle that conversation with care and crea
‘My Partner & I Have Polar Opposite Parenting Styles’
What’s your parenting style—authoritarian, permissive, a mix of both or none of the above? Finding that sweet spot is a challenge, especially when you’re co-parenting teens with different approaches. Our experts have some advice on striking the right balance for your kids. And, we’re all noticing a heightened anxiety in today’s teens, which in some cases is leading to panic attacks. So what brings
My Teen Got A Tattoo Without Permission. Now What?
Our teenagers will make choices they might later regret, like… getting a tattoo. And for some parents, seeing their child come home with ink is their worst nightmare. Our resident parenting expert and Clinical Psychologist Jo Lamble has been there and shares how she wishes she would’ve reacted to help you. Plus, tracking technology has levelled up again—now you can even keep tabs on your teen’s dr
Why Your Teens Gaming Isn’t All Bad
Most teenagers are into gaming, it’s a way to escape, be creative and talk online with their friends. And while being cooped up in a dark room isn’t good for them, we explain why gaming actually can have benefits. And, should we be coaching our teenage girls to dress more conservatively in the era of crop tops and mini skirts? Jo says there’s a way to voice your concerns without sounding like an o
Texting, Trolling & Tweens: A Guide To You Child's First Phone
Holly Wainwright joins our very own clinical psychologist, Jo Lamble, for a special crossover episode of Help! I Have A Tweenager. In this episode, they tackle a common dilemma: what to do when your tween asks for a phone? And how young is too young? Jo shares insights on keeping a positive attitude about phones and recognising when your child might be ready for one. Plus, they explore the world
BONUS: All The Ways We Travelled With Kids
It's the Summer holidays and a lot of parents are travelling right now, so we've put together an episode full of tips and tricks for travelling with your family. Hosts Leigh Campbell and Tegan Natoli from This Glorious Mess, our sister parenting podcast that discusses all the disasters and delights of parenting, also share their favourite travel stories to get you inspired for your next trip. Plus
Breakups Suck. Here’s How To Help Your Teen Through Them
When your teenager’s heart is hurting, it’s tough to know the right words or actions so this episode Ginni and Jo reveal what your teen needs from you during this lousy time. And, when you need to show your kids that certain actions won’t cut it, how do you do it without making one of them the poster child for bad behaviour? We give our advice. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Got
BONUS: The 6 Best Ways To Connect With Your Teen
Are you slowly feeling your teenager slip away? Maybe they’re barely ever home or would rather spend time with friends over family. It’s normal… but there are ways to keep your bond going and in this episode Ginni and Jo share their tops and tricks. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Got a question? We're listening! Send us a voice memo at podcast@mamamia.com.au or call the podcast p
BONUS: Tips For A Successful First Job Interview
Job interviews can rattle our nerves, whether we’re teens or all grown up – that’s just how it goes. This week, Ginni and Jo, who both support a firm handshake, delve into ways you can get your child all set for their first-ever job interview. Plus, Ginni and Jo lay down some cold hard facts for a parent who doesn’t believe that their child has ADHD and is against medicating them. They suggest str
BONUS: Hacks To Get Your Teen Off Of Their Phone
Does your teen trust you? And if not, how can you regain that trust? That’s the dilemma Ginni and Jo are discussing this week after getting a question from a listener who says her son won’t tell her things as he thinks they’ll be used against him. Plus, we hear from a parent who has a list of rules around phone use for their teen, but wants to know if they’re appropriate for a 16 year old. THE END
Our Guide To The ‘We Can’t Afford It’ Chat With Your Teens
Were you shocked by your teenager’s extravagant Christmas wishlist this year? Our kids expect a lot and sometimes we simply can’t afford it. This episode we share our tips on how to talk to teens about the value of money especially around the holiday. And, how should you react when you get a late-night SOS text from your teen who’s at a sleepover? Ginni and Jo unpack sleepover anxiety and why some
Is My Child Depressed Or Just Avoiding Chores?
Wondering if your teen might have a secret Instagram account? Maybe they've got a PG-rated decoy for family members (it’s actually a thing). Jo explains why your child feels the need to hide their social media activity and how to speak to them about it. And, how do you know if your teen's really depressed or just manipulating you to skip chores and responsibilities? We’ve got tips on how to spot t
My Teenager Is A Bully & I’m The Target
As parents, we sometimes feel deflated by our teenagers—it’s normal, but how do we teach them empathy? We dive into a question from a mum who’s feeling like the punchline of her teenager’s jokes, with dad not offering much help. And, reintegrating a child into school after an ADHD diagnosis is tough. What steps can parents take? Ginni and Jo share some helpful ideas. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mam
Why Is My Teen Having A Temper Tantrum?
Remember those days when you had to help your toddler calm down during a tantrum? Turns out, that doesn’t magically disappear as they become teenagers. This episode Ginni and Jo share advice for a parent looking to help their teen manage their rage. And as kids grow up, hugging mum can become kind of embarrassing. But if there’s a total lack of affection, how do you turn things around? We have tip
The Signs Your Teen May Be Self-Harming
On today’s show, Ginni and Jo talk through the signs of self-harming and how to figure out if your teen might be intentionally hurting themselves. And, we all remember how tough being a teenager is, but dealing with the fact that your child might be getting bullied at school? That’s a whole different challenge. Our hosts share some advice for a parent who’s feeling lost about where to start to hel
Acne, Anxiety & The Problem With Your Teens Getting No Sleep
Acne; it’s persistent, sore and not to mention a confidence killer for so many of our teenagers. Ginni answers all your questions including possible treatments. Plus, our experts answer a question from an exhausted parent who is up all night with their teenager who “can’t” (or doesn’t want to) go to sleep. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Got a question? Call the podcast phone on 0
'My Kids Always Choose Their Dad Over Me'
Does your teenager get overly anxious when they’re put under pressure? Jo reveals why telling your child just to “do their best” might actually be adding to their fear of failure. And let's be real, no parent enjoys having to beg for affection from their teenager. If you're feeling under-appreciated or suspect that your kids favour their other parent over you, we give advice on how you can turn th
How To Help Your Teen Process Disturbing Images On Their Socials
How can we shield our kids from distressing war images flooding our social media? Jo discusses some psychological strategies to help our teens process disturbing content. Plus, Ginni's got some advice for a dad whose 15-year-old daughter wants to visit the GP on her own. And, yes there are ways to support your teen without actually being in the room. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH
Easing Your Tweens Worries About High School
What do you do when your teenager starts to hate school, heavily influenced by their older siblings? Ginni and Jo share some advice on dealing with your tween's preconceived ideas of high school. And, how do you know if your teen has an unhealthy relationship with food? We share some signs to keep an eye on. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous f
The Real Reason Our Gen Z Teens Are So Lonely
Gen Z are the loneliest generation, research has found. But how can we help our teenagers when they’re finding it hard to connect with people their age? Ginni and Jo offer their advice. Plus, the controversial rapper Kanye “Ye” West has said some outrageous things, and yet, teenagers are still obsessed with him. Is this such a big deal? We unpack. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: S
Why You Need To Stop Tracking Your Teen
Are you using an app to keep tabs on your teenager’s whereabouts? This episode we unpack why Ginni and Jo don’t think tracking your child’s location is the best approach for their safety. And, as our kids grow older, their bodies naturally go through changes. But what should you do if you notice signs of your teen developing an unhealthy relationship with food? We offer advice to a parent who’s wo
Hacks To Get Your Lazy Teen Out Of Bed
Is your teenager acting a bit down? Staying in bed all day and not really hanging out with friends? Well, it could be signs of depression, or maybe it's just a phase. We'll help you figure out what's what. Plus, Ginni and Jo chat about a parent's dilemma when it comes to charging their teens rent. Is there a right time to drop that on them? THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a
‘Final Exams Are Coming Up & My Teen Is A Mess’
Is your teenager in the midst of studying for their final exams? We know how stressful that time can be, but we have some tips for how to ease your child’s anxieties. Plus, is using Chat GPT for an assignment smart or dishonest? Ginni and Jo offer advice to a parent who has caught their son in a web of lies. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous f
TikTok Isn’t As Bad As You Think
Are you worried about your teen using TikTok? Yes, there's some not-so-great stuff on there, but it’s no different to Instagram or Snapchat. Ginni and Jo have some thoughts that might put your mind at ease about TikTok and some tips to make sure your teen is using the app safely. Plus, when your teen breaks a promise, do you let them off? Ginni and Jo have some advice for a mum whose kid didn't qu
Surviving Driving Lessons With Your Cocky Teen
What's more dangerous: a teenager who's anxious about driving or one who's overly confident behind the wheel? This week, Ginni and Jo are sharing their wisdom for parents of learners as they unpack the road rage, the risky behaviour and advise how to deflate the ego. And, if your kid's going through some serious growing pains, be sure to consult a trusted doctor. Ginni and Jo debunk some sketchy h
Parenting Hack: Being Bored Is Actually Good For Kids
Ever feel like your teenagers’ constant complaints of boredom shatter your plans for a peaceful day at home? Well, groundbreaking research has just spilled the beans – being bored isn’t all that bad. This week, Ginni and Jo explain why boredom is a gateway to unlocking creativity and discovering fulfilment. And, if your older kid's still giving you the helmet cold shoulder when hopping on their bi
Our Advice… Ban The Energy Drinks Now
When the school lunches aren’t made, it’s tempting to hand your teen some cash for the canteen or ‘tuck shop.’ But be warned… they might just be buying unhealthy energy drinks. In this episode, Ginni and Jo discuss why this energy drink craze is more dangerous than you think. Plus, what would you do if you caught your 12 year old smoking? We give advice on how to best approach this with your teen.
How To Host An 18th Without P*ssing Everyone Off
Turning 18 is a huge milestone for our teens, and with it comes the classic 18th birthday party. But parties can be tricky when some friends aren't of the legal drinking age. Ginni and Jo offer advice to a parent wanting to keep things in check at their daughter's event, with tips to ensure rules are respected and underage drinking is avoided. Plus, we dive into some advice for a parent who has a
Prepping Your Teen For Their First Job Interview
Subscribe to Mamamia Job interviews can really rattle our nerves, whether we're teens or all grown up – that's just how it goes. This week, Ginni and Jo, who both support a firm handshake, delve into ways you can get your child all set for their first-ever job interview. Plus, Ginni and Jo lay down some cold hard facts for a parent who doesn’t believe that their child has ADHD and is against medic
So....You Just Found Out Your Teen Is Having Sex
As parents, sometimes we stumble upon things in our teens' rooms that we really wish we hadn't seen. Well, this week, Ginni and Jo hear from a mum who found a box of condoms in her daughter's room and wants to initiate…THE SEX TALK! Plus, Jo opens up about her experiences as a "low talker" and offers valuable advice to a worried parent who believes their daughter’s quietness is a toxic trait. THE
‘Am I Getting Too Involved In My Teens’ Love Life?’
Do you get along with your teen’s significant other? This week, Ginni and Jo hear from a mum who feels she is overstepping with her (for lack of a better word) daughter-in-law. Plus, we give advice to a parent regarding the best time to start talking to their teen about saving their hard-earned minimum wages. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous
Yes, There’s Such A Thing As Being Overprotective
As parents we need to protect our kids, but when do our actions enter overprotective territory? This week, Ginni and Jo hear from a 16-year-old who is getting FOMO because her mum's favourite answer is "no". Plus, we hear from a very sweet dad who wants to reconnect with his son, who is going through an “anywhere but home” phase. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question v
How To Successfully Co-parent With Your Ex
Having trouble scheduling time for your kids to stay at both parents' houses? Navigating the ins and outs of split families can be tough. Ginni and Jo share their tips on how to make it work. Plus, we answer a question from a parent who is eager to blend their new family. Ginni draws from her own experience of blending two families and offers some relatable advice. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamam
‘I Hated School. Is It Hypocritical To Make My Teen Go?’
High school can be a total nightmare for our teens. But if they're practically begging to leave school, how can we be their voice of reason? Ginni and Jo have been in the same boat with their own kids, and they've got advice to share. Oh, and thanks to the Covid lockdowns, kids think they can be on their devices whenever they like. We hear from a parent who is looking to give their kids a reality
My Child’s Extracurriculars Are Sending Me Broke!
The cost of living crisis is hitting hard and unfortunately that means most of us are having to make tough decisions about what is and isn’t affordable for our families moving forward. This week Ginni and Jo have advice on how to talk to your kids about cutting back the extracurricular activities. Plus, they’ve tips on dealing with angry outbursts and what to say when other parents chime in with t
What To Say If Your Teen Asks If You’ve Done Drugs
There’s some questions you hope your teen will never ask. But when they do, how should you answer? Is honesty the best policy? This week Ginni and Jo explain exactly what to do when they ask you about drugs. Plus, we hear from a parent who is worried that their child is a “doormat” who is letting their peers walk all over them. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via
'Am I Just Controlling? Or Is My Child’s Behaviour Unacceptable?'
As our kids grow into teens they’re bound to test their limits. It’s normal! But how far do we let them go before we draw the line? This week Ginni and Jo hear from a parent who thinks their teen may have pushed their boundaries too far. Plus, we give advice to a parent who is concerned that their child is too shy to talk to other adults, including their own grandparents. THE END BITS Subscribe t
'My Teen Has Shut Me Out. What Do I Do?'
As parents we know our kids won’t always have the same views as us, but what if their opinions really don’t sit right with you? Even border on offensive and misogynistic? This week Ginni and Jo hear from a listener whose son is starting to show signs of being an Andrew Tate follower. Plus, we hear from a parent who’s struggling to connect with their passive-aggressive teen. THE END BITS Subscribe
Everything You Need To Know About Creatine
Have you heard of creatine before? It's the supplement widely used in sport that many teens are starting to use, but is it actually safe? Plus, what happens if your teen starts hanging out with a 'bad crowd'. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia GET IN TOUCH: Submit a question via our new anonymous form here Got a question? We’re listening! Call the pod phone on 02 8999 9386 or email us at podcast@m
Is It Possible For Your Teen To Take Risks, Safely?
"Both my teens have told me they want to be a bit less sensible and start taking some risks (eg getting drunk, trying vaping, sky-diving etc). How can I help them explore these urges without their health and safety being compromised?" This is the dilemma a listener emailed us about this week, and Ginni and Jo have some sage advice for nurturing your teen's risk taking behaviour, while keeping them
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