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