In this episode of the Raising Teens mini series, I sit down with four teens to hear their perspectives on growing up today.

Joining me are two of my teens, Lily and Zac, along with Lily’s boyfriend Tyler and his twin brother Cjay. Together we talk about friendships, family life, school, learning differently, and what teenagers wish adults understood.

Like most conversations with teens, some answers are short and some are more thoughtful. Part way through the conversation Zac and Cjay decided bike riding sounded like a better plan, which honestly feels pretty on-brand for teenagers.

By the end of the conversation Lily and Tyler began opening up a little more, which was really lovely to hear. Sometimes teens just need a bit of time to warm up.

This episode offers a small glimpse into the teenage perspective and a reminder that listening — even when the answers are brief — is an important part of understanding them.

Content Warning:

This episode discusses suicide, grief, and teen mental health. Please take care while listening.

This episode of the Raising Teenagers mini series is a deeply important and heartfelt conversation about teen mental health.

I’m joined by my friend Rene, who shares her perspective after the heartbreaking loss of her son to suicide.

Together, we talk about the importance of awareness, open conversations, and supporting young people through the challenges they face. Rene also shares memories of who her son was, allowing us to honour his life while discussing a topic that is often difficult but incredibly important.

This episode is shared with the hope that honest conversations can help parents, caregivers, and communities better understand and support teenagers navigating their mental health.

Show Notes – Support Resources:

If this episode brings up difficult feelings, please know you’re not alone and help is available.

Australia

Lifeline – 13 11 14

24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention.

Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636

Support for anxiety, depression, and mental health concerns.

Kids Helpline (ages 5–25) – 1800 55 1800

Free, confidential counselling for young people.

Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467

24/7 counselling for people affected by suicide.

headspace – 1800 650 890

Mental health support for young people aged 12–25, including online and in-person services.

ReachOut Australia – reachout.com

Online mental health support, information, and tools for young people and parents.

SANE Australia – 1800 187 263

Support and information for people experiencing complex mental health issues and their families.

13YARN – 13 92 76

A national crisis support line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who want to yarn with someone who understands their culture.

Black Dog Institute – blackdoginstitute.org.au

Evidence-based resources about mental health, suicide prevention, and support for families and carers.

If you are in immediate danger, please call 000.

International listeners

If you’re outside Australia, please contact your local emergency number or visit 👉 findahelpline.com to find support in your country.

Reaching out for help is a sign of strength. You deserve care too.

The teen years are a wild, beautiful ride, full of growth, independence, and surprising moments of connection. In this episode, I reflect on what it’s like to raise teenagers, honour their individuality, and navigate the balance between guidance and giving them space. A heartfelt conversation about trust, connection, and the joys and challenges of this unique stage of family life.

This episode introduces a new focus on the teenage years, with more reflections to come.

In this episode, I share what a real day in my life looks like from slow mornings and school drop-offs to horses, housework, quiet nap times, and evenings together.

Just our everyday. Kids, chores, animals, and making it all work.

A gentle, honest look at this season of life, right in the middle of it.

Ever wondered what life is really like living on a property with horses while raising kids?

In this episode, I share the daily routines, the joys, the challenges, and everything that goes into this meaningful lifestyle.

From magical moments and life lessons to why it’s so rewarding, and why preparation is essential before getting your first horse.

This episode gives you an honest, heartfelt glimpse into our world.

Every child is different, and every stage brings its own lessons…

Raising children of different ages means juggling personalities, stages, and needs all at the same time. In this episode, I share what it’s like to meet each child where they are, honour their individual journeys, and let go of the idea that there’s only one “right” way to parent.

A heartfelt, reflective story about connection, individuality, and the everyday moments that make raising a large family so meaningful.

The default parent often holds the family together in ways that are rarely seen or spoken about.

In this episode, I reflect on what it means to be the default parent, the quiet exhaustion that comes with it, and how deeply underappreciated this role can feel. I share a gentle, honest look at why this work matters, even when it goes unnoticed, and why acknowledging it is so important , both for ourselves and for the families we care for.

A reflective episode for anyone doing the invisible work that keeps a family running.

Ever find yourself waiting for the next stage in life, thinking happiness is just around the corner?

In this episode, I share my reflections on learning to enjoy the now, especially as a parent.

From rushing through our days to longing for quiet nights, I explore how we often wish days away, only to realise weeks, months, and years slip by. I reflect on the lessons motherhood has taught me about noticing the little moments, finding joy in the everyday, and embracing the imperfect, beautiful life we’re living right now.

A short, heartwarming story about slowing down, being present, and discovering that happiness isn’t waiting in the future, it’s already here.