This week is a brief solo episode from Dr. John Duffy, who wanted to take a minute to talk about the fragility of young life in today's world. It has never been more important for parents to understand that they were essentially "never a teenager" in today's world, that their world is full of perils that are very different from what we experienced growing up, and how leading with empathy is perhaps the best thing we can do for them.

Today we are talking about how crucial it is that you say the words. And they don't come easy to everyone. But find a way to focus on what matters. Your kid's well-being and maybe their life depends on it (pardon the occasional audio crackles - we think they might be exclamation points from the Universe).

Today, we are weighing in on some fantastic listener questions! How do we know the difference between normal vs more serious anxiety issues/problems associated with the new school year? And how do we keep from overreacting to the former in a way that might turn them into the latter? How do we stay in touch with our college kids without being annoying? Is it ok to tell your kids about the article in Newsweek about the boy who lost his sight because he only ate junk food? How do I get my son to share with me what's going on in school - from general things to what's going on socially? Here's our two cents!

Today on the podcast, Julie and special guest, Ilene, are talking about their road trip to see Julie's mom do stand-up for the first time at 86 years of age. It's never too late to reinvent yourself or try something new!

On today's podcast we offer our thoughts and advice for the best new school year.

Wish we didn't have to talk about this, but...

Today we are talking about the sustainable fashion event imagined, created and beautifully executed by 17-year-old Grace, and how uplifting and inspiring the evening was.

Today we are talking about how gut-wrenchingly accurate HBO's Euphoria might be.

Today we are talking about how we are resetting, refreshing, and redesigning our relationship.

Today we are breaking down a few topics inspired by Julie's recent high school reunion. With a special shoutout to two of our favorite "cheerleaders."