
Hosted by CBS13 · EN

You love your kids… and you’re still exhausted. In this episode of Raising Me, Adrienne Stein talks with psychiatrist Dr. Jeffrey Barkin about parental burnout—what it is, how it shows up (irritability, numbness, resentment, brain fog), and why it’s so common right now. Dr. Barkin shares practical ways to reset your nervous system, ask for support, and reduce the mental load—so you can feel more like you again. Parental burnout is more than being tired — it’s chronic stress and overload that can impact mood, sleep, relationships, and the ability to feel present at home. Dr. Barkin explains that burnout can show up in different ways, including irritability, brain fog, resentment, or feeling constantly “on edge.” He also discusses how ongoing stress affects the nervous system and why parents may feel guilt or shame even when they’re doing their best. The episode includes practical steps parents can try right away — from quick in-the-moment resets to longer-term strategies for reducing the mental load, setting boundaries, and building a support plan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Parents often enter the new year feeling overwhelmed by clutter, unfinished projects, and all the holiday stuff that came in – not to mention just the mental load of keeping a household running. In this episode of Raising Me, host Adrienne Stein talks with Stephanie Treantos from Lemonaid Solutions about why homes can feel stressful or “heavy,” and how simple organizing systems can reduce tension for the whole family. Treantos explains why most homes rely on memory and effort — and how visual cues and clear routines can help everyone, including kids and partners, maintain order. The episode includes practical ideas for starting small in 2026, even with just a few minutes a day, and encouragement for parents who feel behind. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Between work, school schedules, and family commitments, many parents find themselves putting friendships on hold. But mental health experts say staying connected with friends isn’t just good for your social life — it’s vital for your wellbeing. Joanne Grant, Chief Growth Officer at Sweetser Behavioral Health, joins Adrienne Stein to talk about how adult friendships evolve through different stages of parenting — from sleepless nights with newborns to the empty nest years. She says maintaining friendships helps reduce stress, combat isolation, and even improve parenting outcomes. Grant also talks about some of the challenges parents face when it comes to finding friends after their kids are all grown up and suddenly, they’re trying to figure out who they are and what they like. For many adults, building new friendships can feel daunting. Grant recommends starting small — a quick text, a walk, or joining a local group centered around a shared hobby. Grant also points to social connection as a protective factor against anxiety and depression. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trying to survive holiday meals? You’re not alone. Registered dietitian Kara Kilmartin of Hannaford joins Raising Me to share simple strategies for reducing holiday mealtime stress. Kilmartin offers guidance on managing picky eaters, handling family pressure around food, navigating portion sizes, and helping kids enjoy treats without guilt. The episode provides practical tips to make holiday meals more relaxed, positive, and enjoyable for the whole family. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you feeling the pressure to keep up with picture-perfect parents online? From Instagram-perfect parties to constant “sharenting,” it’s easy to fall into the comparison trap. In this episode, Adrienne Stein talks with pediatrician and digital wellness expert Dr. Cori Cross about protecting your child’s digital footprint—and finding balance in a world that’s always online. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Raising Me, host Adrienne Stein sits down with Dr. Jeff Hutchinson, pediatrician and ambassador for the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Center of Excellence on Social Media and Youth Mental Health, to tackle one of the biggest challenges facing families today: cyberbullying. Dr. Hutchinson explains that while social media has become a permanent part of kids’ lives, parents must take a proactive role in monitoring it. He encourages parents to become educated users themselves — learning not only what their children are doing online but how to support them when problems arise. This episode explores how online harassment can lead to anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation, and what warning signs parents should look for — from subtle changes in mood to a sudden withdrawal from social activities. Dr. Hutchinson also offers practical, compassionate advice for approaching kids who may be struggling online. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Getting kids out the door with a healthy breakfast, packing lunches they’ll eat, and managing dinner after a long day can feel impossible. In this podcast episode of Raising Me, Hannaford’s registered dietician Kara Kilmartin shares practical tips to make family nutrition easier during the school year. From affordable grocery staples to kid-approved lunchbox ideas and after-school snacks that fuel—not just fill—Kara breaks down simple strategies any parent can use. Whether you’re battling picky eaters, or just trying to save time, this conversation may help take the stress out of mealtime. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From social media comparisons to academic and athletic expectations, today’s teens are facing unprecedented pressure—and it’s showing up in ways parents might not expect. In this episode, Grant helps to shine a light on the often-overlooked struggles of teen boys. While boys may not express anxiety and depression in the same way as girls, the impact can be just as serious. Grant explains how boys often shut down or act out when overwhelmed, with behaviors like physical altercations, risky driving, or emotional withdrawal masking deeper mental health concerns. The episode encourages parents to rethink traditional “tough guy” narratives and create space for vulnerability. Tips include engaging boys during activities, asking open-ended questions about their feelings, and offering nonjudgmental support. The goal: help boys understand that it’s okay to not be okay—and that talking about it is a sign of strength. Whether you're raising a son, a daughter, or simply want to better understand the pressures facing today’s teens, this series offers timely insight and actionable advice for families. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Talking to your kids about drugs—it’s one of the hardest conversations a parent can face. This week on Raising Me, we’re breaking down the barriers and building trust. Rob Rogers from Kennebec Behavioral Health shares age-specific strategies to help parents connect—from toddlers to teens. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices