In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Ted Dintersmith, education disruptor, former venture capitalist, and author of Aftermath: The Math You Wish You Took. The discussion explores the gap between traditional math education and the real-world skills students actually need to succeed.

Dintersmith distills the status quo by emphasizing the importance of creativity, critical thinking, and practical application. The conversation also delves into broader parenting concerns—including emotional and mental health, social media usage, bullying, and the importance of consent—showing how these complex issues connect back to how kids learn and grow.

The discussion shares insights on how to help children build a healthier, more empowered relationship with math—and life.

Takeaways:

• Understanding the disconnect between traditional math education and real-world applications is crucial for parents.
• Parents should embrace a broader view of math, encouraging creativity and real-life relevance over rote memorization.
• The conversation around math education needs to shift from grades to fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Incorporating math discussions into everyday life can help children develop a healthier relationship with the subject.
• The rise of AI in education highlights the need for students to understand concepts rather than just procedures.
• Parents can play a vital role in their child's learning by making math fun and engaging, rather than a chore.

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.

Links referenced in this episode:

• whereparentstalk.com

In today’s episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino delves into the findings of educational experts Jenny Anderson and Rebecca Winthrop, authors of 'The Disengaged Teen.' They share their insights on the various modes of learning—Passenger, Achiever, Resistor, and Explorer—and how understanding these can empower parents to better support their children. Through a blend of qualitative and quantitative research, the authors share the importance of fostering an environment where curiosity thrives and students regain their independence in learning.

Anderson and Winthrop explore actionable tips for parents to help their teens navigate the complexities of school life, from addressing emotional health to fostering better communication and discipline.

What you'll learn:

• Why the disengagement of teens from school becomes pronounced during their transition into middle school
• How parents can play a pivotal role in their children's educational engagement
• Understanding the different modes of learning—Passenger, Achiever, Resistor, and Explorer
• Why promoting emotional health in teens involves encouraging curiosity and resilience
• Extracurricular activities can serve as vital outlets for teens
• Why the importance of consent and healthy relationships is increasingly relevant for teens

Links referenced in this episode:

• whereparentstalk.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• New York Times
• Quartz
• Time
• the Atlantic
• Brookings Institute
• Georgetown University
• Transcend Education

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.

The tween and teen years can feel like emotional whiplash — one minute you're managing mood swings, the next you're untangling tech rules or talking boundaries.

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino interview Bailey Gaddis — certified parenting coach, doula, hypnotherapist, and mom of two — to help bring calm, confidence, and customization to the parenting journey.

The discussion unpacks how to:

• Create parenting plans tailored to your child
• Support emotional growth through hormonal changes and screen time stress
• Foster independence, build trust, and open the lines of communication
• Handle bullying, teach consent, and nurture real-world relationships

Rooted in real life and backed by research, Gaddis discusses how parents can lead with flexibility, intention, and heart.

Links referenced in this episode:

• whereparentstalk.com

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.

Parenting today often feels like navigating a storm without a map. In this powerful episode, Where Parents Talk host Lianne Castelino speaks with award-winning journalist and author Melinda Wenner Moyer about her latest book, "Hello Cruel World: Science-Based Strategies for Raising Terrific Kids in Terrifying Times."

Together, they explore how parents can help their children thrive amid today’s most pressing challenges—from climate anxiety and social media pressures to hormonal shifts and mental health struggles.

You’ll learn:

• Why independence and healthy risk-taking matter
• How to turn everyday anxieties into opportunities for growth
• Practical, science-backed tools to build emotional resilience
• Communication strategies that really work with kids and teens

Takeaways:

• Effective parenting involves fostering open communication, allowing children to express their feelings freely without fear of judgment.
• Teaching kids to navigate social media responsibly can help them develop critical thinking and consent awareness in relationships.
• Building resilience in children means encouraging them to face challenges rather than shielding them from difficulties, promoting independence and self-discipline.
• The importance of emotional health cannot be overstated; parents should actively listen to their kids to nurture their mental well-being.
• Encouraging curiosity and empathy in children can combat bullying and social isolation, equipping them to build strong, healthy relationships.
• Active parenting is about instilling hope and agency in children, guiding them to take action on social issues while maintaining their emotional health.

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.

Links referenced in this episode:

• whereparentstalk.com

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks with author, columnist, and mother of two Pam Lobley about planning a slow summer and teh benefits of embracing boredom.

Lobley, a former actres and comedian discusses the pressure parents feel to keep their kids constantly busy—and what happens when we stop.

She shares her personal story of parental burnout and the bold decision to give her children an “unstructured summer”—what she dubbed a “summer of rot.” What began as a break from overscheduling turned into a transformative experience for her family.

Takeaways:

• The pressure of over-scheduling can negatively affect both children's and parents' mental health, leading to increased stress and anxiety.
• Empowering children with unstructured playtime fosters independence, creativity, and problem-solving skills that are essential for their emotional health.
• In the digital age, the influence of social media exacerbates the fear of missing out, making it crucial for parents to prioritize their children's well-being over societal expectations.
• Creating a schedule that allows for 'nothing' can help kids learn to fill their time creatively, reducing reliance on screens and adult-directed activities.
• Encouraging children to express their boredom can lead to unexpected opportunities for growth and self-discovery, which are vital for their overall development.
• Parents must remember that success is subjective; focusing on enjoying family life is just as important as academic or extracurricular achievements.

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.

Links referenced in this episode:

• whereparentstalk.com

What does it mean to be an engaged father today? In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino explores the evolving role of dads in raising emotionally grounded boys amidst toxic masculinity, social media, and shifting family dynamics, with guest Drew Soleyn.

A leadership coach, speaker, Director of Dad Central Ontario and founder of Connected Dads, Soleyn unpacks the real challenges fathers face, from managing hormonal changes and digital distractions to fostering independence and navigating peer pressure. Soleyn, a father of five emphasizes why emotional well-being, healthy communication, and modelling consent are key pillars of modern fatherhood.

Key Takeaways:

Why open communication is critical during hormonal shifts

How device use and social media affect boys' mental health

The impact of toxic masculinity—and how fathers can counter it

Strategies for setting boundaries, building resilience, and encouraging independence

The importance of modelling self-care and healthy relationshipsLinks referenced in this episode:

• Connected Dads
• Dad Central 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.

Links referenced in this episode:

• whereparentstalk.com

Making the leap from high school to university is a major life shift—for both students and parents.

This transition can be a daunting experience particularly considering the myriad challenges posed by increased independence, academic pressures, and social dynamics.

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks with Dr. Michael De Robertis, Professor Emeritus, York University who spent more than 35 years teaching astrophysics and astronomy.

The discussion explores the key differences between high school and university, highlighting the importance of time management, discipline, and effective communication.

Takeaways:

• Navigating the transition from high school to university involves significant independence, requiring students to manage their own time and responsibilities effectively.
• Parents can ease their child's transition to university by engaging in open communication about academic expectations and the importance of discipline in managing stress.
• Understanding the role of social media and device usage is crucial, as these can distract students from their studies and contribute to feelings of isolation or bullying.
• Encouraging emotional health and resilience through discussions about purpose and motivation can lead to better academic performance during challenging first terms at university.
• The benefits of physical presence in classrooms extend beyond academic learning; engaging with peers fosters relationships that can enhance the overall university experience.
• Establishing consent and communication boundaries is essential for students as they navigate new relationships during their university years, impacting their social interactions and personal growth.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• York University
• University of Toronto

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.

Links referenced in this episode:

• whereparentstalk.com

Feeding challenges aren’t just for toddlers—many parents find themselves facing a new kind of mealtime stress when their kids become tweens and teens. In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino is joined by Dena Kelly, a licensed counsellor, board-certified behaviour analyst, and paediatric feeding therapist, who specializes in helping families navigate the emotional and physical toll of picky eating in older children.

Kelly shares evidence-based strategies for tackling picky eating, while unpacking how adolescence, hormonal shifts, social pressures, and parental communication all play a role in shaping a child’s relationship with food.

From creating structured yet flexible mealtime routines to empowering kids with independence in the kitchen, this episode offers practical tools to reduce food-related anxiety and foster healthier eating habits—for both parents and kids.

What You’ll Learn:

How picky eating affects emotional well-being and social development in older children

Why adolescence and hormonal changes can trigger or intensify feeding issues

The role of social media and peer influence in shaping food preferences

Strategies to promote independence and reduce conflict during meals

When and why to seek professional help—even if your child seems to be coping

How to turn mealtimes into a source of connection rather than conflict

Links referenced in this episode:

• whereparentstalk.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Focused Approach

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.

How can parents raise strong, confident daughters in a world still shaped by sexism?

In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks with Dr. Jo-Ann Finkelstein, clinical psychologist, award-winning author, and mother of two, about how to support girls' self-esteem, mental health, and identity development in today’s social climate.

The conversation explores how sexism subtly influences girls’ daily lives—from screen time to social media. Learn practical parenting strategies to help girls build confidence, emotional strength, and a healthy sense of self-worth.

Takeaways:

• Understanding the impact of societal sexism on girls' self-esteem is crucial for parents today.
• Parents need to be mindful of implicit biases that influence how they communicate with daughters.
• Teaching girls about gender bias prepares them to navigate societal challenges effectively.
• Recognizing and addressing the emotional health of girls can help combat the pressures of perfectionism.
• Open communication about the realities of consent and relationships is vital for young girls.
• Empowering girls to assert themselves helps foster independence and resilience against bullying.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Psychology Today
• New York Times
• Atlantic
• Oprah Daily
• Harvard Business Review

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.

Links referenced in this episode:

• whereparentstalk.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Psychology Today
• New York Times
• Atlantic
• Oprah Daily
• Harvard Business Review
• EV magazine

Are we overlooking what the brain is really telling us about ADHD, autism, and behaviour in kids? In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Dr. Robert Melillo, a pioneer in childhood brain development who unpacks the science behind neurodevelopmental disorders—and challenges common assumptions.

Drawing on over 30 years of experience, Dr. Melillo explains how many of these challenges stem from functional brain imbalances rather than genetic factors. He shares non-medication-based strategies and early intervention insights that can help parents support their child’s development and emotional well-being.

A father of three, including a neurodiverse child, Dr. Melillo offers practical tools and renewed hope for families navigating neuro-developmental disorders.

Key Takeaways:

The sharp rise in childhood neuro-developmental disorders like ADHD and autism underscores the urgent need for deeper insight and more effective intervention strategies.

Dr. Melillo highlights how subtle brain imbalances—not just external behaviours—are often at the root of learning and behavioural challenges.

Addressing these issues requires more than medication; a holistic, brain-based approach can help uncover and treat underlying causes.

Recognizing delays in developmental milestones is crucial, as they may signal neurological imbalance and broader cognitive issues.

Hormonal shifts combined with increased screen exposure can significantly affect children's emotional well-being—calling for more intentional, tech-conscious parenting.

Equipping parents with science-backed tools fosters resilience and independence in children while helping them navigate bullying, peer pressure, and the digital world with confidence.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• The Melillo Method

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.

Links referenced in this episode:

• whereparentstalk.com