Healthy Teen Life

In this episode, I'm joined by Monica Crnogorac a Certified Life & Wellness Coach who helps teens manage anxiety and overwhelm that interferes with their daily lives. We unpack what anxiety really looks like in teens—especially the kind that hides behind perfectionism, procrastination, or “I’m fine.” We talk through how to spot the signs (even the ones you can’t see), common myths parents believe, and what you can do to help yo...

In this episode, I sit down with Ross Szabo—mental health advocate, author, and Wellness Director at Geffen Academy at UCLA—to explore how vital it is that we rethink our approach to mental health. We discuss the difference between emotions and mental health disorders, why using the right mental health vocabulary matters, and what families can do to normalize mental health the way we do physical health. If you've ever wondered whet...

Teens often hear what to eat, but you rarely are taught the nuances of how to make your own smart choices. (at least not in a way that's healthy, realistic and reasonable). In this episode, we break down nutrition labels in a no-pressure, non-diety way—so you can stop guessing and start fueling yourself with confidence.

You’ll learn:

• What food labels actually tell you (and what’s just marketing fluff)
• The 3 things to check bef...

Most of us struggle with body image inside our head. As a teen or college student, most people probably aren't aware of how much thought and energy goes into body image because it's not something you want to share or admit -- until it starts to take over. If you're feeling like your body is a problem to be fixed, this episode cuts through the noise of toxic body culture and gives you practical tools to make peace with your physical...

This episode is for any teen or young adult who has the food police running loose in their head or find thoughts about food are occupying too much mind space. It's time to stop feeling guilty about every bite! In this episode, we break down why your relationship with food is so complicated (spoiler: it's not your fault) and give you practical ways to make peace with eating. You'll learn how to recognize harmful food rules, quiet th...

Feeling anxious, low-energy, or just not like yourself lately? It’s not all in your head—and it’s not something you have to just deal with. In this episode, we unpack what’s really going on in your body and how an unhealthy metabolism could be causing anxiety, depression, brain fog, low energy, or other physical and mental health struggles… and the one major solution to start fixing it, now. Discover how one major solution can tran...

Ever wondered why traditional mental health treatments often fall short? Despite therapy sessions and prescriptions, are you or a loved one still struggling with anxiety or depression? Well, the answer might be on your plate, not just in your therapist's office.

In this eye-opening episode, Leslie sits down with Dr. Matthew Bernstein, clinical psychiatrist for over 20-y...

Why do teens and college students stress eat during exam time; crave and binge on sweets after scrolling TikTok; or while feeling anxiety from social drama? This episode breaks down the science of how your nervous system contributes to emotional eating, explaining why willpower has nothing to do with stopping it. Discover practical "neurohacks" to recognize when anxiety is triggering your cravings and learn simple techniques to reg...

You know you should exercise for your health, you want to start something, anything, yet you're struggling to find your "jam". Or you're exercising but it seems like a struggle to do and stay consistent.

In this episode Leslie challenges conventional fitness narratives and dives into rethinking movement—not as a punishment or obligation, but as a personal journey that inspires joy and longevity. Discover your unique "movement perso...

In a world that pushes perfectionism and self-criticism, what if the real secret to resilience was being your own best friend? In this episode, on Self-Compassion, we explore personal struggles with self-doubt and reveal how the science-backed practice of self-compassion can transform your relationship with yourself. Featuring insights from Dr. Kristin Neff's research, this episode offers teens and young adults simple, actionable s...

In this powerful episode we delve into the transformative power of three inherent virtues every human possesses: uniqueness, equality, and infinite value.

Listen to discover how understanding these virtues can transform how teens and young adults navigate the complexities of life, from social media pressures to college anxieties, dating and friendship challenges, and major life decisions. Learn practical techniques for internalizin...

In this eye-opening episode, we break down how social media's filtered reality impacts teen and young adult body image. Learn to spot editing techniques, understand the psychology behind comparison, and discover practical action steps to help manage screen time and protect your self-image while still enjoying social platforms. Featuring three actionable steps to build a healthier relationship with your feed and your body. Essential...

Getting in the kitchen could be the key to healthier eating, greater confidence, and real-world independence for teens and young adults in college or living on their own. In this episode, Leslie is joined by Lynn Fredericks, founder and CEO of Family Cook Products and the Teen Battle Chef program—a hands-on experience that teaches cooking skills for teens while fostering teamwork, leadership, and healthy nutrition choices. Learn ho...

Ever realize you haven't eaten all day but don't actually feel hungry? It can have you wondering if something is wrong. In this revealing episode, we explore why so many young people are losing touch with their natural hunger cues—from jam-packed schedules to the subtle influence of social media's "perfect eating" posts.

Discover why your body's "...

Are you often hungry despite your efforts to eat "right"? Are you constantly thinking about food, you've told yourself not to eat...only to find yourself eating? In this episode, we explore how restrictive eating patterns might be sabotaging your relationship with food and leaving you perpetually hungry. Whether it's skipping meals, eliminating food groups, or obsessively counting calories, these behaviors can trigger your body's s...

Ever wonder why you're eating when you're not hungry? Do you sometimes feel like it just takes over before you know it? Do you want effective solutions to override the cravings or stop mindless eating?

This episode, the second of a 4-part miniseries on hunger and eating, delves into the often overlooked topic of emotional eating, discussing its true nature, psychological drivers, and ways to identify its triggers. From the confusio...

First in a four-part series on building a healthier relationship with hunger and food, this introductory episode answers questions for teens and young adults navigating confusing messages about food, eating, and body image. You'll understand why it's so easy to confuse physical and emotional hunger; learn the five surprising physical hunger signs you might be missing daily; and practical questions to ...

It's Eating Disorder Awareness Week! Are you concerned about your eating habits or body image? Do you know the warning signs of an eating disorder? What about in a friend? Or if your a parent, what about signs in your teen or young adult? In this crucial episode, we dive deep into the realities of eating disorders, which affect people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. Learn why eating disorders are among the de...

In this episode of the Healthy Teen Life Podcast, Leslie brings you a fresh perspective on motivation with Dr. Jodi Amman. This was a deep discussion on the underlying drivers of motivation and the common barriers teens face when struggling to find it. With over 28 years of clinical practice, Dr. Amman offers invaluable insights and actionable advice to help teens and young adults foster a motivating mindset.

Teens and young adults...