What does a safe relationship really look like — at home, at school, or while dating? In this powerful episode, Leslie talks with Sabrina Osso, founder of Osso Safe and survivor-advocate, about why respect must be the foundation of every relationship and how teens can recognize warning signs before things escalate. This conversation covers: The difference between discipline vs. abuse Why home safety impacts confidence, mental health, and future relationships Early red flags in teen and college dating (control, isolation, humiliation, love-bombing) How emotional abuse can hide behind “jokes,” jealousy, or pressure Why teens deserve voice, choice, and safety — before things get out of hand Practical ways teens can protect themselves and seek support This episode empowers teens and young adults to trust their instincts, recognize unsafe dynamics early, and understand what real respect looks like. Sabrina also shares the Osso Safe certification, how it's more effective in bringing peace to the home and practical, actionable steps for teens and parents on prevention, safety strategies, and breaking cycles of violence.   Sabrina and OssoSafe: Website: https://www.ossosafe.com/ Home Safe Home, For You and Me Written by Sabrina Osso and Illustrated by Aiwaz Jilani http://amazon.com/dp/B0BHLBWMXQ   TEDx Talk…https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zyAhN_xwCxs&feature=youtu.be   Follow the show: Hit follow, leave a comment or a review -- your voice matters. Parents: For support with teen self-esteem and food+body issues, schedule a free Clarity Call with Leslie here.   Disclaimer  

Loneliness is a big challenge teens face today — and it’s far more common (and more normal) than most teens recognize. In this episode, Leslie talks with licensed psychologist and author Dr. Kathy Wu about why so many teens feel disconnected, what loneliness does to the teen brain, and how it affects self-confidence, motivation, and mental health.   What you'll hear: How the brain’s reward system and stress response make loneliness worse The link between belonging, self-talk, self-compassion, and connection What to do when you want to reach out… but fear rejection How to make friendships in small, real-life steps Why loneliness can show up even when you're surrounded by people Practical ways to reconnect, build confidence, and reshape your social habits This episode gives relatable insights + actionable steps teens can use today to break the loneliness cycle and feel more connected again. Book: Self-Regulation Handbook for Teens and Young Adults by Dr. Kathy Wu   Like this episode? Hit follow and leave a review -- your voice matters!   Parents: Schedule a free Clarity Call with Leslie here to help your teen/young adult build self-esteem while resolving body image, unhealthy eating and and weight concerns.  Grab a copy of my FREE Parent Guide: 20 Ways to Help Increase Confidence in Your Teen  

On the outside, some teens can look like they “have it all together” but on the inside, they're carrying something much heavier behind the scenes: hidden depression. In this powerful conversation, Dr. Margaret Rutherford—clinical psychologist and author of Perfectly Hidden Depression—breaks down why some teens suppress emotions, strive to seem perfect, and quietly carry stress, pressure, or loneliness without telling anyone. This is an important listen for any teen who feels overwhelmed by trying to “be perfect,” uphold family expectations, manage cultural  or social media pressures  -- and for any parent trying to understand what might be going on beneath the surface.  You'll learn how hidden depression develops, why perfectionism fuels emotional numbness, and how teens can begin opening up even when it feels impossible or “too risky.”  For more on Dr. Rutherford and her work: drmargaretrutherford.com   Like this episode? Leave us a comment or review -- your feedback is important to us.   Parents: Schedule a free Clarity Call with me here to help your teen/YA resolve weight & unhealthy eating habits, while improving body image and self-esteem.   Disclaimer

This episode breaks down mindful eating in a way teens and young adults can use in their everyday lives — and during the holidays when stress, emotions, and food are everywhere. Dr. Michelle May joins Leslie to explain why typical “outside-in” rules (counting, restricting, avoiding “bad” foods) actually fuel guilt, cravings, and feeling out of control, and what to do instead. You’ll learn:• How to use the Mindful Eating Cycle (the six decisions behind every eating moment)• The difference between being in control vs. in charge• Why teens lose trust in their hunger cues — and how to rebuild it• How emotional triggers, boredom, stress, and scarcity sneak into our eating• What balanced eating really looks like during holidays, school, sports, and real life. This conversation helps you ditch the guilt, tune into your body, and make eating decisions that actually feel good.   Get the first chapter of Dr. May's book here:  https://amihungry.com/programs/mindful-eating-for-students/ Simply fill out the box on the right side of the webpage to download chapter 1.   Like this episode? Take a second to click 'Follow' so you're updated on each new episode. If you have a question, compliment or topic request for a future episode, let us know! Drop us a note in the comments.   Parents: If you'd like more help with mindful eating, food-body relationship support and how to help your teen -- Schedule a free Clarity Call with Leslie here.  

Dr. Angela Casey, double-boarded dermatologist and creator of Bright Girl, breaks down straightforward, science-backed skincare for tweens and teens. Learn why a pH-balanced cleanser, good moisturizer, and mineral sunscreen are the foundation, which trendy ingredients to avoid, and how sleep, diet, and stress affect acne and skin health. This episode includes easy morning/night routines, acne prevention tips, plus an exclusive Bright Girl listener offer (use code HTL15 at brightgirl.com for 15% off). For more on Dr Angela Casey and Bright Girl skincare: Website: www.brightgirl.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-casey-md/ Instagram: @brightgirlbeauty and @angelacaseymd TikTok: @brightgirlbeauty   Like this episode? Take a second to click follow and leave a review -- your support makes a big difference in reaching more listeners seeking support like you. Disclaimer      

If you've ever struggled with math you've probably had thoughts that you're dumb, not good at it, or will never "get it". Too many students struggle and give up when they begin to fall behind or miss out on a section that leaves a gap in the building blocks of math. And sometimes parents believe their student isn't trying hard enough or isn't as smart as the other kids. In today's episode Beth Bowen joins Coach Leslie to bust those beliefs and talk about why math is often a mental block for students. Learn how to think in a fresh new way that opens the door to not only learning but becoming fully confident with math -- Going from "this sucks" to "I've got this!" in a short amount of time. Beth has taught in public schools, homeschool co-ops, and one-on-one tutoring settings for over 20 years. Specializing in helping teens and young adults who believe they are "bad at math", she rebuilds their foundation and helps them overcome math anxiety to find real success in Middle School, High School and placement tests like the Accuplacer and ACT.   Ekster discount code link: https://www.ekster.com/LESLIE01046 For more on Beth Bowen and her tutoring: https://www.mathmentortutoring.com Facebook Group: Math Mentor Tutoring Community  LinkedIn   Like this episode? Take a second to click follow and leave a review -- your support makes a big difference in reaching more listeners seeking support like you. Parents: Schedule a free Clarity Call with Leslie here to help your teen/YA resolve weight & unhealthy eating habits, while improving body image and self-esteem.   Grab a copy of my FREE Parent Guide: 20 Ways to Help Increase Confidence in Your Teen

Vaping is everywhere — and it can feel like it’s the cool thing to do. But what’s actually happening in your brain and body when you vape? In this episode, respiratory therapist and certified tobacco educator Jessica Stewart breaks down why vaping is so addictive, how it affects teen mood, focus, and stress, and what to do if you want to quit but don’t know where to start. No shame. No scare tactics. Just real talk about what’s going on and how to take back control. The episode also covers practical quitting steps — counseling, nicotine replacement options, mindset work — plus how to talk about it, start conversations early, and support teens who want help. Jessica, a respiratory therapist, certified tobacco educator, a certified life coach and host of a podcast: The Teen Years Toolkit For Moms Connect with Jessica: @jessicastewartcoaching www.coachwithjessica.ca Like this episode? Take a second to click follow and leave a review -- your support makes a big difference in reaching more listeners seeking support like you.   Parents: Schedule a free Clarity Call with me here to help your teen/YA resolve weight & unhealthy eating habits, while improving body image and self-esteem.   Grab a copy of my FREE Parent Guide: 20 Ways to Help Increase Confidence in Your Teen   Disclaimer

Most people think of personal branding as an adult or career-focused exercise but the reality is that doing the work in your teens years is the most ideal time. In this episode Suzanne Tulien, a Brand Clarity Catalyst, joins Leslie to share what a personal brand is, how it's relevant for teens, and why teens need it more than ever. Find out how you as a teen or college student can tap into your personal values and attributes to develop your own authentic identity. The result builds confidence, clarity and sense of self that serves as a guiding light in your life -- above all the external noise from society that so often creates distraction and dissatisfaction. For more on Suzanne and personal brand clarity coaching:  BrandAscension.com YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0Xr8GUiQsriW9BYIhQuQ0g/   Ekster discount code link: https://www.ekster.com/LESLIE01046 Like this episode? Take a second to click follow and leave a review -- your support makes a big difference in reaching more listeners seeking support like you.   Parents: Schedule a free Clarity Call with me here to help your teen/YA resolve weight & unhealthy eating habits, while improving body image and self-esteem. Grab a copy of my FREE Parent Guide: 20 Ways to Help Increase Confidence in Your Teen

Leveraging proven key principles of achievement and paths to success Barry Garapedian expertly guides young people to meet their highest potentials in all aspects of life. Listen in as Barry shares a practical playbook for high school and college students to build confidence, develop high-performance habits, and focus on high-leverage activities that move them toward their goals. This episode covers achievable routines (win the morning), goal-setting with 90-day plans, habit formation strategies, networking techniques that are easy and fun, ‘lightning strikes,’ and ways parents can support growth without over-helping. Get ready to learn small daily habits, time-audit tactics, and actionable mindset shifts—to create momentum, resilience, and measurable progress toward college and career dreams. Like this episode? Take a second to click follow and leave a review -- your support makes a big difference in reaching more listeners seeking support like you. Ekster discount code link: https://www.ekster.com/LESLIE01046 For more on Barry: https://www.mag7consultants.com/ To get your copy of Winning the Game of Life: on Audible or physical copy   Parents: Schedule a free Clarity Call with me here to help your teen/YA resolve weight & unhealthy eating habits, while improving body image and self-esteem.   Grab a copy of my FREE Parent Guide: 20 Ways to Help Increase Confidence in Your Teen

Feeling anxious, stuck, or overwhelmed by your goals? Wanting to improve on a skill or feel more confident in yourself? You’re not alone. In this episode, we dive into the power of visualization—a simple, proven way to train your brain for success. You’ll learn how imagining your goals (the right way) can help you feel more confident, motivated, and focused—whether you’re preparing for a big exam, a game, or just trying to believe in yourself a little more. Coach Leslie shares why visualization works, how athletes and students use it to crush their goals, and simple steps to try it yourself—no fancy equipment or self-help jargon required. Like this episode? Take a second to click follow and leave a review -- your support makes a big difference in reaching more listeners seeking support like you. Parents: Schedule a free Clarity Call with me here to help your teen/YA resolve weight & unhealthy eating habits, while improving body image and self-esteem. Grab a copy of my FREE Parent Guide: 20 Ways to Help Increase Confidence in Your Teen

Feeling drained, unmotivated, or just over it — even though you love your sport? You might be dealing with athletic burnout. In this episode, we talk about what burnout really is (and why it happens to even the best athletes), the signs your body and mind are giving you, and how to recharge without losing your edge. You’ll learn: How to recognize early signs of burnout before they take over What top athletes do to reset and refocus Easy ways to rebuild energy and motivation — even during busy sports seasons How to tell the difference between needing a break and needing a change Whether you’re training for a championship, college tryouts, or just want your love for the game back — this one’s for you. Tune in to learn how to take care of your body, protect your mindset, and get that fire back — stronger than before. Like this episode? Take a second to click follow and leave a review -- your support makes a big difference in reaching more listeners seeking support like you. Parents: Schedule a free Clarity Call with me here to help your teen/YA resolve weight & unhealthy eating habits, while improving body image and self-esteem.   Grab a copy of my FREE Parent Guide: 20 Ways to Help Increase Confidence in Your Teen   Disclaimer

If you've tried a calorie "cut" or are considering a diet, the result can often lead you moody, lightheaded, low on energy, hungry, and either giving up or giving in. Which is why prioritizing the quality and balance of foods, listening to hunger and fullness cues, and making gradual changes generate better results than focusing on diets, number of calories, restriction or elimination of food groups. Learn the foundational lessons that rebuild body awareness, and make lasting, sustainable changes that support energy, mood, fitness, and body composition—without deprivation. Like this episode? Take a second to click follow and leave a review -- your support makes a big difference in reaching more listeners seeking support like you. Parents:  Schedule a free Clarity Call with me here to help your teen/YA resolve weight & unhealthy eating habits, while improving body image and self-esteem. Grab a copy of my FREE Parent Guide: 20 Ways to Help Increase Confidence in Your Teen   Disclaimer

Bullying is more common than many of us realize—and its impact on teens can be seriously life-changing. Dru Alhborg of the Bullying Recovery Resource Center in Colorado joins me to share the essential steps to combating and overcoming bullying for yourself, a loved one or a friend. Find out the true definition of bullying, how to spot the warning signs, when to step in, how to be an 'Upstander' or support someone being bulled, and when moving schools may be necessary. This episode equips parents and teens with the tools you need to prevent, address, and heal from bullying.   Dru Ahlborg Dru is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Bullying Recovery Resource Center (BRRC). BRRC is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing the resources, education and advocacy needed to defend bullied children, help rebuild lives and stop bullying. Dru came to her work at BRRC after her oldest child was relentlessly bullied in middle-school and her family was at a loss with the lack of resources for parents and families who are in the midst of bullying. Since 2017, Dru and her team have assisted over 600 families in Colorado and beyond, assuring that their voices are heard and they have the support they need as they work through the traumas of bullying. Like this episode? Take a second to click Follow and leave a review -- your support makes a big difference in helping the Healthy Teen Life podcast reaching more listeners seeking support like you.   Parents: Grab a copy of my FREE Parent Guide: 20 Ways to Help Increase Confidence in Your Teen Schedule a free Clarity Call with Leslie here to help your teen/YA resolve weight & unhealthy eating habits, while improving body image and self-esteem Disclaimer

Discover the five most common focus killers teenagers struggle with plus simple and easy to implement solutions that actually work. It starts with understanding how and why your teen brain gets distracted and scattered. Then learn simple, easy to implement techniques that work with your brain rather than against it. The result will be greater focus, attention and retention – without the struggle, stress or overwhelm you’re feeling now. Perfect for teens feeling scattered or overwhelmed, and parents who want to understand what’s really interfering with focus time. Like this episode? Take a second to click follow and leave a review -- your support makes a big difference in reaching more listeners seeking support like you. Ekster discount code link: https://www.ekster.com/LESLIE01046 Parents: Schedule a free Clarity Call with me here to help your teen or college student improve body image and self-confidence, so they can make healthy choices with food and in life. Grab a copy of my FREE Parent Guide: 20 Ways to Help Increase Confidence in Your Teen   Disclaimer

Teen anxiety has been on the rise—and what teens eat can add fuel to the fire. The right foods can calm anxious minds, improve focus, and even boost confidence. In this episode, you’ll learn science-backed nutrition hacks and uncover the hidden food culprits that make stress worse—plus practical swaps that bring relief. Teens and parents will walk away with actionable “eat this, not that” tips and a guided strategy for lasting calm. Listen now to turn everyday meals into a powerful tool for mental wellbeing. Like this episode? Take a second to click follow and leave a review -- your support makes a big difference in reaching more listeners seeking support like you. Parents: For support resolving your teen's weight & unhealthy eating habits, while improving body image and self-esteem, schedule a free Clarity Call with me here    Disclaimer

Diet culture, weight stigma, and fat-phobia all contribute to our perceptions of ideal body image and promote endless comparisons. In this candid episode, Gabrielle Katz talks with me about the influence of societal ideals and media messages on shaping all our relationships with our bodies, and it’s inescapable pressure on teens. Plus, why chasing thinness isn’t the path to true health, and how it can harm teens emotionally, physically, and socially. Discover actionable steps for boosting body image, using clothing as self-expression, navigating social media, and fostering supportive family communication. This episode offers practical advice for both teens and parents, for building lasting self-esteem and confidence. Like this episode? Take a second to click follow and leave a review -- your support makes a big difference in reaching more listeners seeking support like you. For More on Gabrielle Katz and Coastal Collaborative Care:  https://coastalcollaborativecare.com/ Parents: Grab a copy of my FREE Parent Guide: 20 Ways to Help Increase Confidence in Your Teen Schedule a free Clarity Call with me here to help your teen/YA resolve weight & unhealthy eating habits, while improving body image and self-esteem.   Disclaimer

Getting into the sync of school routines can be a challenge and have lingering effects throughout the day. Which is where six simple habits can help you feel more focused, energized, and calm for school...without a lot of effort.  It starts with the basics—and builds sustainable routines that support brain function, focus, mood, and overall well-being. Listen in for how to build your own personal routine that leads to academic success and well-being -- throughout the day. Like this episode? Take a second to click follow so you don't miss an episode. Parents: schedule a free Clarity Call with me here to help your teen/young adult build greater self-esteem while building healthy habits and body image that lasts. FREEBIE: Grab a copy of my Parent Guide: 20 Ways to Help Increase Confidence in Your Teen

Growing up comes with new responsibilities, more stress and sometimes, a feeling of less happiness. Often because there's one important element that has declined or been lost completely -- play. In this episode, we explore the surprising benefits of play for teens and young adults, backed by research. From lowering stress and boosting serotonin to sparking creativity and connection, play is more than “just fun”—it’s essential. I’ll share simple, age-appropriate ways you can sneak play back into your day without feeling silly or childish -- while reaping significant benefits. Freshman Formula: for first year, college freshmen. Five essential life skills the most successful college student use to thrive at college -- learned in 5 quick, easy days.  Parents: schedule a free Clarity Call with me here to help your teen/YA resolve weight & unhealthy eating habits, while improving body image and self-esteem. Help us out: Take a second to click follow and leave a review -- your support makes a big difference in reaching more listeners seeking support like you.

Family meals aren’t just about eating together—they act as a powerful protective factor for your teen’s mental health, resilience, and overall well-being. In this episode, we explore why eating together is one of the most powerful tools for connection. You’ll learn the compelling science behind family meals, practical tips to fit them into busy schedules, and simple strategies to make conversations at the table more positive and meaningful. If you’ve ever struggled with silence, distractions, or mealtime stress, this episode will give you fresh ideas to turn dinner into a time your teen actually enjoys. Freshman Formula: for first year, college freshmen. Five essential life skills the most successful college student use to thrive at college -- learned in 5 quick, easy days.  Help us out: Take a second to click follow and leave a review -- your support makes a big difference in reaching more listeners seeking support like you. Parents: schedule a free Clarity Call with me here to help your teen/YA resolve weight & unhealthy eating habits, while improving body image and self-esteem.

Tired? Moody? Craving junk food? Teen sleep needs are different, and your habits might be sabotaging your moods, health and school mornings. Discover why teens naturally stay up later (it's biology, not rebellion!), what's sabotaging your sleep, and easy hacks you can start using tonight. Perfect for teens and college students (and their parents) looking for sleep tips and school success. Get the truth about weekend sleep-ins, blue light, teen circadian rhythm, and how to reset for better results. Freshman Formula: Learn the essential life skills the most successful college students use to not just survive but to thrive and live the college life of their dreams. Get the Freshman Formula -- a 5-day mini-course for high school college-bound students, 1st year college students, transfer students, or returning students looking to make more positive changes. 5 essential skills in 5 days for a better college life. Exclusive podcast coupon code in episode. Help us out: Take a second to follow and leave a review -- your support makes a big difference in reaching more listeners seeking support like you. Parents: schedule a free Clarity Call with me here to help your teen/YA resolve unhealthy eating and body image issues, while improving self-esteem.