In this episode of The SpeakUp! Podcast, host Martie Bernicker welcomes Michael Blanche, Co-Founder and Chief Clinical Officer of Ethos Treatment, to discuss the crucial topic of teen substance use. Martie and Mike explore current trends in teen substance abuse, the influence of social media and peer pressure, and the importance of ongoing, open conversations between parents and teens. They offer practical advice for parents on how to approach these sensitive discussions, identify risk factors, and create a supportive environment for their children. With insights from over two decades of experience, Mike provides valuable strategies for parents to help their teens navigate the challenges of substance use and mental health.

Guest: Mike Blanche, LCSW, @ethostreatment, ethostreatment.com

Production credits
This episode is brought to you by our friends at the Uncommon Individual Foundation (UIF), a catalyst for change through mentoring. UIF’s ONTRACK Plus software is transforming the educational landscape for underserved students, by creating pathways to college credits and scholarships. Discover more at: uif.org

Website
Learn more at www.speakup.org

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Instagram: speakuporg
Facebook: speakup.pa
LinkedIn: speakuporg

In this episode of The SpeakUp! Podcast, Dr. Steve Treat, a seasoned therapist and former CEO of Council for Relationships, discusses how parents can shift from controlling to influencing their teenagers through stronger relationships. Engaged by Martie Bernicker, Executive Director of SpeakUp!, Dr. Treat emphasizes the power of genuine relationships built over time, advocating for parents to be present without interrupting, engage in open dialogue, and seek feedback on their parenting. He advises transitioning from a purely parental role to recognizing teenagers as peers, valuing their perspectives while maintaining boundaries. Even for those new to this approach, Dr. Treat provides practical tips, such as being available, incorporating playtime, and managing interaction intensity. The episode concludes with three actionable tips: recognizing normal teenage behavior, assessing reinforced behaviors, and mindful communication to foster healthier relationships. The overarching message underscores the importance of relationships and open dialogue in parenting teenagers.

Guest: Dr. Steve Treat

Production credits
This episode is brought to you by our friends at the Uncommon Individual Foundation (UIF), a catalyst for change through mentoring. UIF’s ONTRACK Plus software is transforming the educational landscape for underserved students, by creating pathways to college credits and scholarships. Discover more at: uif.org

Website
Learn more at www.speakup.org

Social
Instagram: speakuporg
Facebook: speakup.pa
LinkedIn: speakuporg

Production credits
This episode is brought to you by our friends at the Uncommon Individual Foundation (UIF), a catalyst for change through mentoring. UIF’s ONTRACK Plus software is transforming the educational landscape for underserved students, by creating pathways to college credits and scholarships. Discover more at: uif.org

Website
Learn more at www.speakup.org

Social
Instagram: speakuporg
Facebook: speakup.pa
LinkedIn: speakuporg

In this episode of The SpeakUp! Podcast, host Martie Bernicker welcomes Dr. Ken Ginsburg to discuss the pressing issue of teen stress. They explore the various stressors that teens face today, the biological mechanisms of stress, and how parents can effectively support their teens in managing stress. Dr. Ginsburg shares his expertise on adolescent resilience, providing valuable insights and practical strategies for parents. This episode aims to foster understanding and communication between parents and teens, helping to create a supportive environment where young people can thrive.

Guest: Dr. Ken Ginsburg, @parentandteen, parentandteen.com

Check out Ken’s latest book- “Congrats - You’re Having a Teen” on Amazon.com.

And Visit the Center for Parent Teen Communication’s website at parentandteen.com for more information and strategies and sign up for their weekly parenting e-newsletter.

Production credits
This episode is brought to you by our friends at the Uncommon Individual Foundation (UIF), a catalyst for change through mentoring. UIF’s ONTRACK Plus software is transforming the educational landscape for underserved students, by creating pathways to college credits and scholarships. Discover more at: uif.org

Website
Learn more at www.speakup.org

Social
Instagram: speakuporg
Facebook: speakup.pa
LinkedIn: speakuporg

In SpeakUp!’s inaugural podcast episode, Executive Director, Martie Bernicker, and Program Director, Erica Talley, interview Martie Gillin, the founder of SpeakUp!. Inspired by her son’s AIDS-related death in 1992, Martie Gillin started SpeakUp! to promote HIV/AIDS awareness, later evolving it into a platform for open dialogue among youth. Martie shares her shift from a traditional parenting mindset to encouraging youth to speak up, emphasizing the importance of discussing struggles openly. Reflecting on her experience as a mother of ten, she discusses the "5 Fs" she values: Faith, Family, Friends, Forgiveness, and Fun, and highlights the transformative power of honest communication. Martie also offers practical advice for parents on fostering open communication with their children, emphasizing creating a safe environment and being a consistent presence. This heartfelt episode delves into resilience, parenting, and the impact of speaking up.

Production credits
This episode is brought to you by our friends at the Uncommon Individual Foundation (UIF), a catalyst for change through mentoring. UIF’s ONTRACK Plus software is transforming the educational landscape for underserved students, by creating pathways to college credits and scholarships. Discover more at: uif.org

Website
Learn more at www.speakup.org

Social
Instagram: speakuporg
Facebook: speakup.pa
LinkedIn: speakuporg