

Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Raising Tweens & Teens
Dr. Lisa Damour/Reena Ninan
Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Raising Tweens & Teens is the essential podcast for parents seeking expert guidance, tested strategies, and psychological insights on raising kids, especially tweens and teens. Join renowned clinical psychologist Dr. Lisa Damour and former journalist and mom of two Reena Ninan as they explore real-life parenting challenges. Looking to learn more about how to boost kids’ resilience, build their confidence, or support their emotional well-being? Dr. Lisa and Reena have got you covered! Together they address listener questions about stress, anxiety, social media concerns, school pressures, and challenges in peer relationships. Each episode provides practical advice and science-backed solutions to help parents raise resilient, confident, and emotionally healthy kids.Tune in every week for the latest topics in parenting, child psychology, and family wellness. Get answers to your most pressing parenting questions. New episodes drop every Tuesday.Keywords: ask lisa podcast, dr. lisa damour, reena ninan, psychology, parenting, podcast, teens, tweens, parenting teens, parenting tweens, teen parenting, tween parenting, parenting tips, parenting advice, positive parenting, parenting podcast, teen behavior, tween challenges, raising tweens, raising teens, parenting hacks, parenting help, family dynamics, kids podcast, mental health, teen mental health, attachment styles, emotional intelligence
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 22, 2025 • 32min
216: How Do We Get Kids to Stop Fat Shaming?
Are your kids participating in or experiencing fat shaming at school or online?
Dr. Lisa and Reena dive deep into the disturbing trend of weight-based bullying among teens. Discover why friends are targeting each other, how social media normalizes harmful body-shaming behaviors, and learn critical strategies that parents can use to support their children. This episode provides essential guidance for navigating body image conversations and protecting teens' mental health. Whether your child might be a victim, bystander, or unknowingly participating in these harmful dynamics, this podcast offers compassionate, actionable advice for families.
We want to hear from you! Have you witnessed fat shaming among teens, and how have you addressed it?
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Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Raising Tweens & Teens is the essential podcast for parents seeking expert guidance, tested strategies, and psychological insights on raising kids, especially tweens and teens. Join renowned clinical psychologist Dr. Lisa Damour and former journalist and mom of two Reena Ninan as they explore real-life parenting challenges. Looking to learn more about how to boost kids’ resilience, build their confidence, or support their emotional well-being? Dr. Lisa and Reena have got you covered! Together they address listener questions about stress, anxiety, social media concerns, school pressures, and challenges in peer relationships. Each episode provides practical advice and science-backed solutions to help parents raise resilient, confident, and emotionally healthy kids. Tune in every week for the latest topics in parenting, child psychology, and family wellness. Get answers to your most pressing parenting questions. New episodes drop every Tuesday.
Check out our Ask Lisa Podcast Playlists. Binge specific topics like Raising Sons, Staying Connected to Your Teen: https://www.youtube.com/@asklisapodcast/playlists
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Episode Keywords: body shaming, fat shaming, bullying, social media, weight, tiktok, adolescence, body image, teen insecurities, weight-based victimization, adolescent psychology
Show Keywords: ask lisa podcast, dr lisa damour, reena ninan, psychology, parenting, podcast, teens, tweens, parenting teens, parenting tweens, teen parenting, tween parenting, parenting tips, parenting advice, positive parenting, parenting podcast, teen behavior, tween challenges, raising tweens, raising teens, parenting hacks, parenting help, family dynamics, kids podcast, mental health, teen mental health, attachment styles, emotional intelligence

Apr 15, 2025 • 31min
215: Is It Possible to Talk About Feelings Too Much?
A deep look at when emotional talk helps and when it becomes harmful rumination. Practical ways to reroute spiraling conversations and offer nonverbal coping options. Signs that persistent overanalysis may point to anxiety or OCD tendencies. Strategies to get teens to open up and to support them without needing every detail.

Apr 8, 2025 • 30min
214: Should I Let My Son Spend All His Free Time Playing Video Games?
Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Raising Tweens & Teens is the essential podcast for parents seeking expert guidance, tested strategies, and psychological insights on raising kids, especially tweens and teens. Join renowned clinical psychologist Dr. Lisa Damour and former journalist and mom of two Reena Ninan as they explore real-life parenting challenges. Looking to learn more about how to boost kids’ resilience, build their confidence, or support their emotional well-being? Dr. Lisa and Reena have got you covered! Together they address listener questions about stress, anxiety, social media concerns, school pressures, and challenges in peer relationships. Each episode provides practical advice and science-backed solutions to help parents raise resilient, confident, and emotionally healthy kids. Tune in every week for the latest topics in parenting, child psychology, and family wellness. Get answers to your most pressing parenting questions. New episodes drop every Tuesday.
Check out our Ask Lisa Podcast Playlist.
Binge specific topics like Raising Sons, Staying Connected to Your Teen:
https://www.youtube.com/@asklisapodcast/playlists
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Are video games interfering with your child's social life, or could they be a secret weapon for connection and skill-building? In this episode, Dr. Lisa challenges parents' assumptions about gaming, revealing surprising benefits like spatial skill development and peer socialization while also addressing the critical importance of balancing screen time with real-world interactions. If your child is a gaming enthusiast or you're concerned about screen time, this episode provides nuanced, research-backed guidance for navigating the digital entertainment landscape.
We want to hear from you! What's your biggest challenge with your child's video game habits?
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Episode Keywords: video games, socialization, family activities, sports, balance, technology, youth culture
Show Keywords: ask lisa podcast, dr lisa damour, reena ninan, psychology, parenting, podcast, teens, tweens, parenting teens, parenting tweens, teen parenting, tween parenting, parenting tips, parenting advice, positive parenting, parenting podcast, teen behavior, tween challenges, raising tweens, raising teens, parenting hacks, parenting help, family dynamics, kids podcast, mental health, teen mental health, attachment styles, emotional intelligence

Apr 1, 2025 • 31min
213: Lessons from Netflix's "Adolescence"
This discussion dives into the emotional complexities faced by adolescent boys, particularly in light of societal pressures around masculinity. It highlights a specific case of a 13-year-old grappling with a serious accusation and the impact on familial relationships. The importance of emotional expression is emphasized while navigating middle school challenges and financial literacy. Engaging in fulfilling activities, especially in sports, is noted as vital for identity formation. The conversation also addresses breaking cycles of emotional trauma and the importance of navigating parenting in a digital age.

Mar 25, 2025 • 31min
212: ENCORE: Will Social Media Harm My Kid?
Parents are increasingly concerned about social media's impact on their kids. The hosts discuss when to introduce platforms to tweens and teens. They emphasize setting healthy boundaries and the importance of parental guidance. The conversation explores body image issues, social interactions, and the risks of cyberbullying. Strategies for managing screen time and promoting real-life connections are highlighted. Balancing safety with the fear of social isolation is crucial as families navigate the digital world together.

Mar 18, 2025 • 36min
211: How Do I Parent with an Ex Who Doesn't Share My Values?
Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Raising Tweens & Teens is the essential podcast for parents seeking expert guidance, tested strategies, and psychological insights on raising kids, especially tweens and teens. Join renowned clinical psychologist Dr. Lisa Damour and former journalist and mom of two Reena Ninan as they explore real-life parenting challenges. Looking to learn more about how to boost kids’ resilience, build their confidence, or support their emotional well-being? Dr. Lisa and Reena have got you covered! Together they address listener questions about stress, anxiety, social media concerns, school pressures, and challenges in peer relationships. Each episode provides practical advice and science-backed solutions to help parents raise resilient, confident, and emotionally healthy kids. Tune in every week for the latest topics in parenting, child psychology, and family wellness. Get answers to your most pressing parenting questions. New episodes drop every Tuesday.
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Struggling to co-parent with an ex who has completely different values? In this episode, Dr. Lisa offers compassionate, practical strategies to set boundaries, support your child's love for both parents, and address challenging situations without creating additional conflict. Together Dr. Lisa and Reena explore how children experience parental disagreements and discuss age-appropriate approaches for handling differences. Whether you're divorced, separated, or in a challenging co-parenting relationship, this episode offers hope and actionable advice for keeping your child's best interests at the center of family life.
We want to hear from you! How have you resolved a challenging co-parenting moment?
Follow and subscribe to our YouTube channel where you can see all our latest video episodes: https://youtube.com/@asklisapodcast
And follow us on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn @AskLisaPodcast, @Lisa.Damour, @ReenaNinan.
Checkout Dr. Lisa’s website for more resources: https://www.drlisadamour.com/
Ask Lisa is produced by: https://www.goodtroubleproductions.com
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Episode Keywords: co-parenting, divorce, parenting values, parental conflict, child development, child psychology
Show Keywords: ask lisa podcast, dr lisa damour, reena ninan, psychology, parenting, podcast, teens, tweens, parenting teens, parenting tweens, teen parenting, tween parenting, parenting tips, parenting advice, positive parenting, parenting podcast, teen behavior, tween challenges, raising tweens, raising teens, parenting hacks, parenting help, family dynamics, kids podcast, mental health, teen mental health, attachment styles, emotional intelligence

5 snips
Mar 11, 2025 • 34min
210: Dealing with Disappointing College Admissions. What Helps?
High school seniors face an emotional rollercoaster during college admissions, with pressures and disappointments weighing heavily. The discussion emphasizes the importance of empathy while navigating setbacks. Parents learn how to support their children through these challenges, highlighting strategies for maintaining emotional well-being. The conversation also touches on alternative paths and the need for meaningful dialogue between parents and teens. Resilience is key as they explore what truly matters beyond prestigious college acceptance.

Mar 4, 2025 • 40min
209: The Science of Managing Emotions with Author Ethan Kross
Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Raising Tweens & Teens is the essential podcast for parents seeking expert guidance, tested strategies, and psychological insights on raising kids, especially tweens and teens. Join renowned clinical psychologist Dr. Lisa Damour and former journalist and mom of two Reena Ninan as they explore real-life parenting challenges. Looking to learn more about how to boost kids’ resilience, build their confidence, or support their emotional well-being? Dr. Lisa and Reena have got you covered! Together they address listener questions about stress, anxiety, social media concerns, school pressures, and challenges in peer relationships. Each episode provides practical advice and science-backed solutions to help parents raise resilient, confident, and emotionally healthy kids. Tune in every week for the latest topics in parenting, child psychology, and family wellness. Get answers to your most pressing parenting questions. New episodes drop every Tuesday.
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Dr. Lisa and Reena are joined by psychologist Dr. Ethan Kross, author of the book "Shift: Managing Your Emotions - So They Don't Manage You," to discuss practical, science-backed strategies to help parents and children alike navigate the ups and downs of emotional life.
Kross shares fascinating insights from his research on the power of "emotional shifters" - concrete tools we can use to turn the volume up or down on our feelings. Parents will learn how to leverage sensory experiences, mental time travel, and even music to help their kids (and themselves) regain control when emotions run high. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom that just might transform how your family manages life's inevitable emotional curveballs.
Find Dr. Ethan’s book here: https://www.ethankross.com/books/shift
Follow and subscribe to our YouTube channel where you can see all our latest video episodes: https://youtube.com/@asklisapodcast
And follow us on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn @AskLisaPodcast, @Lisa.Damour, @ReenaNinan.
Checkout Dr. Lisa’s website for more resources: https://www.drlisadamour.com/
Ask Lisa is produced by: https://www.goodtroubleproductions.com
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Episode Keywords: dr ethan kross, shift, emotional management, emotion regulation, parenting emotions, managing feelings, emotional control
Show Keywords: ask lisa podcast, dr lisa damour, reena ninan, psychology, parenting, podcast, teens, tweens, parenting teens, parenting tweens, teen parenting, tween parenting, parenting tips, parenting advice, positive parenting, parenting podcast, teen behavior, tween challenges, raising tweens, raising teens, parenting hacks, parenting help, family dynamics, kids podcast, mental health, teen mental health, attachment styles, emotional intelligence

Feb 25, 2025 • 28min
208: What Should I Do When Other Parents Host Wild Parties?
Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Raising Tweens & Teens is the essential podcast for parents seeking expert guidance, tested strategies, and psychological insights on raising kids, especially tweens and teens. Join renowned clinical psychologist Dr. Lisa Damour and former journalist and mom of two Reena Ninan as they explore real-life parenting challenges. Looking to learn more about how to boost kids’ resilience, build their confidence, or support their emotional well-being? Dr. Lisa and Reena have got you covered! Together they address listener questions about stress, anxiety, social media concerns, school pressures, and challenges in peer relationships. Each episode provides practical advice and science-backed solutions to help parents raise resilient, confident, and emotionally healthy kids. Tune in every week for the latest topics in parenting, child psychology, and family wellness. Get answers to your most pressing parenting questions. New episodes drop every Tuesday.
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Your teen wants to go to a party—but what if there’s drinking? And what if the cops show up? In this episode, Lisa and Reena take on the tough realities of teenage parties, underage drinking, and how parents can navigate these high-stakes situations. Should you call the host parents? What happens if the police arrive? Could your teen get arrested? Lisa shares how to have open, judgment-free conversations so your child feels safe coming to you—no matter what. Plus, practical strategies to help teens think ahead, make smart choices, and handle peer pressure in the moment.
Don’t miss this essential conversation that every parent of a tween or teen needs to hear.
Follow and subscribe to our YouTube channel where you can see all our latest video episodes: https://youtube.com/@asklisapodcast
And follow us on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn @AskLisaPodcast, @Lisa.Damour, @ReenaNinan.
Checkout Dr. Lisa’s website for more resources: https://www.drlisadamour.com/
Ask Lisa is produced by: https://www.goodtroubleproductions.com
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Episode Keywords: teen parties, underage drinking, parenting teens, teen safety, parent liability, hot cognition, cold cognition, teen relationships, school involvement, party rules, peer pressure, social hosting laws
Show Keywords: ask lisa podcast, dr lisa damour, reena ninan, psychology, parenting, podcast, teens, tweens, parenting teens, parenting tweens, teen parenting, tween parenting, parenting tips, parenting advice, positive parenting, parenting podcast, teen behavior, tween challenges, raising tweens, raising teens, parenting hacks, parenting help, family dynamics, kids podcast, mental health, teen mental health, attachment styles, emotional intelligence

Feb 18, 2025 • 30min
207: What's the Best Way for My Teen to Handle a Mean "Friend"?
Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Raising Tweens & Teens is the essential podcast for parents seeking expert guidance, tested strategies, and psychological insights on raising kids, especially tweens and teens. Join renowned clinical psychologist Dr. Lisa Damour and former journalist and mom of two Reena Ninan as they explore real-life parenting challenges. Looking to learn more about how to boost kids’ resilience, build their confidence, or support their emotional well-being? Dr. Lisa and Reena have got you covered! Together they address listener questions about stress, anxiety, social media concerns, school pressures, and challenges in peer relationships. Each episode provides practical advice and science-backed solutions to help parents raise resilient, confident, and emotionally healthy kids. Tune in every week for the latest topics in parenting, child psychology, and family wellness. Get answers to your most pressing parenting questions. New episodes drop every Tuesday.
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Is your child struggling with a difficult friendship? Middle school social dynamics can be tricky, and knowing how to guide your child without making things worse is a real challenge. In this episode, Dr. Lisa Damour and Reena Ninan tackle a parent's question about a daughter facing repeated unkindness from a friend.
Lisa shares practical, research-backed strategies to help kids navigate these situations and offers crucial advice for parents on how to give advice kids will actually listen to.
If your child has ever come home from school upset about a friend, this episode is a must-listen.
Olweus’s Bullying Prevention Program: https://clemsonolweus.org/
“Bullying at School” by Dan Olweus: https://www.amazon.com/Bullying-School-What-Know-Can/dp/0631192417
Follow and subscribe to our YouTube channel where you can see all our latest video episodes: https://youtube.com/@asklisapodcast
And follow us on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn @AskLisaPodcast, @Lisa.Damour, @ReenaNinan.
Checkout Dr. Lisa’s website for more resources: https://www.drlisadamour.com/
Ask Lisa is produced by: https://www.goodtroubleproductions.com
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Episode Keywords: tween friendships, middle school drama, bullying, social skills, mean girls, teen conflict, friendship struggles, mean friends, social dynamics, conflict resolution, childhood development, friendship issues, emotional support
Show Keywords: ask lisa podcast, dr lisa damour, reena ninan, psychology, parenting, podcast, teens, tweens, parenting teens, parenting tweens, teen parenting, tween parenting, parenting tips, parenting advice, positive parenting, parenting podcast, teen behavior, tween challenges, raising tweens, raising teens, parenting hacks, parenting help, family dynamics, kids podcast, mental health, teen mental health, attachment styles, emotional intelligence


