Parent Problems Today Podcast

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Paul Arredondo explore one of the most common — and often misunderstood — parts of raising teens: pushback. They discuss why resistance and defiance are actually signs of growth, how parents can prepare for it, and what strategies help maintain calm and connection during challenging moments.

The conversation dives into developmental stages, communication tools, and the importance of creating a balanced family culture where boundaries and independence can coexist. Robert and Paul share insights on how parents can move from reacting to responding with intention, turning conflict into opportunities for growth and understanding.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Paul Arredondo unpack the misunderstood topic of conflict in parenting. They explore how many parents swing between avoiding conflict entirely or reacting with aggression—and how both responses can erode trust and connection. The conversation sheds light on how healthy conflict, when done intentionally, can actually build stronger relationships and teach kids emotional resilience.

Listeners will walk away with tools to identify their own conflict patterns, approach tough moments with confidence, and model assertive communication that encourages mutual respect. If you’ve ever felt stuck in power struggles or unsure how to navigate emotional blow-ups, this episode is your guide to moving forward.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Paul Arredondo explore the hidden struggles of parent isolation. They discuss why so many parents feel alone in their journey, how cultural and personal beliefs contribute to isolation, and the emotional toll it can take on families. The conversation highlights the importance of persistence when seeking support, the role of schools and counselors, and the power of community in creating resilience.

Listeners will walk away with practical steps to build connections, strengthen family dynamics, and create a more supportive environment for both parents and children. If you’ve ever felt like you’re carrying the weight of parenting on your own, this episode offers both validation and a roadmap toward connection.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Paul Arredondo take a deep look at the powerful emotions of guilt and shame that many parents carry. They explore how these feelings influence parenting styles, sometimes leading to overreaction, withdrawal, or repeating unhealthy patterns. The conversation highlights the difference between guilt and shame, the importance of accountability over blame, and how self-care plays a vital role in becoming a more effective and grounded parent.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Paul Arredondo explore what it means to practice open-minded parenting as teens transition into young adulthood. They discuss how parents can better understand their child’s perspective, encourage motivation, and navigate choices around careers, college, and life experiences.

Through thoughtful discussion, Robert and Paul highlight why curiosity, patience, and communication are essential tools for building independence and trust. They unpack the value of life experiences, the importance of supporting motivation (in whatever direction it points), and the power of the “And” conversation to balance guidance with freedom.

If you’re working to let go of old scripts, rethink traditional pathways, and embrace open-minded parenting that supports growth, this episode offers strategies to strengthen your relationship with your teen or young adult.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, hosts Robert Trout and Paul Arredondo dive into the complex topic of consequences in parenting. They unpack the difference between natural consequences—what happens organically as a result of actions—and contrived consequences, which are parent-created and often shaped by social norms or family values.

Robert and Paul explore why contrived consequences are frequently misunderstood and how they can either support or damage relationships with children if not used thoughtfully. Through real-life scenarios and insightful guidance, they help parents understand when and how to use each type of consequence effectively.

Listeners will gain tools to reflect on their parenting style, develop more purposeful discipline strategies, and learn how to foster accountability and learning without shame or disconnection. If you’re working to build stronger relationships and teach lasting lessons through discipline, this conversation will give you a helpful framework for navigating the balance between structure and empathy.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Paul Arredondo explore how transitions affect parenting, child development, and family life. Whether it’s a change in school, a move to a new home, a shift in family dynamics, or everyday changes like bedtime routines, transitions can deeply impact a child’s emotional and behavioral health.

The conversation breaks down the types of transitions families face and how these moments create opportunities for connection, growth, and resilience. Robert and Paul offer practical parenting strategies for supporting kids during change, including the importance of curiosity, consistent communication, and building a shared understanding of what’s happening.

Listeners will learn how to assess their child’s reactions, recognize signs of stress or confusion, and create a more stable and grounded home environment during uncertain times. The episode also highlights the importance of emotional support and mental health when guiding children through life’s changes.

If you’re a parent looking for ways to help your child navigate change with confidence and calm, this episode is filled with valuable insight.

Episode 44 – Assessment Before Consequences
In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Paul Arradondo unpack why assessing before applying consequences is essential for effective parenting. They explore how understanding your child’s unique needs, capacity, and willingness can transform discipline into an opportunity for growth. The discussion dives into the role of mental and behavioral health, the importance of self-reflection, and the value of gathering insights from your community. Learn how to approach consequences with intention, foster better communication, and build stronger relationships in your family.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Paul Arredondo introduce the HALT framework—Hungry, Angry, Lonely, and Tired—as a practical tool for understanding emotional triggers in children and families. They explore how meeting basic needs like nutrition, rest, and connection can transform parenting challenges into opportunities for growth. The conversation dives into co-regulation, routine-building, and the emotional fragility that arises when these needs go unmet. This episode offers clear, compassionate guidance for creating a more supportive and emotionally aware home environment.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, hosts Robert Trout and Paul Arredondo explore the reality that parenting—especially in the context of youth mental health—rarely follows a straight path. They challenge the idea of quick fixes and emphasize the need for thoughtful plans and backup plans when supporting tweens, teens, and young adults. From preparing for behavioral pushback to resourcing your parenting approach with community support, this conversation equips you with realistic strategies to navigate setbacks and sustain resilience.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Paul Arredondo dive into the all-too-common experience of parent burnout. From constant caregiving demands to emotional exhaustion, they unpack the signs, symptoms, and impact of burnout on both parents and children. You’ll hear real talk about the guilt around self-care, how to recognize when you’re running on empty, and why tending to your own mental health isn’t optional—it’s essential. This is a must-listen for any parent feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or just plain exhausted.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Paul Arredondo explore the often-overlooked importance of rites of passage in adolescent development. They unpack how these intentional transitions—whether formal or informal—help young people step into adulthood with clarity, confidence, and support. The conversation highlights the historical and cultural roots of rites of passage, the consequences of skipping them, and how modern parents can create meaningful, age-appropriate experiences that mark growth and responsibility. If you’re wondering how to better support your child’s transition into maturity, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Mary Zaunbrecher unpack the realities many parents face when their young adult children drop out of college or struggle to move forward in life. They explore common patterns behind “failure to launch,” such as over-scaffolding in high school and lack of life skills, and dive into how shame, anxiety, and surprise can shape both the parent and young adult experience. With empathy and insight, Robert and Mary share practical strategies for setting boundaries, staying curious, and fostering healthy communication—so families can navigate this difficult phase with more clarity and connection.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Mary Zaunbrecher unpack the difference between treatment fatigue and treatment resistance in adolescents. These are two distinct patterns that often get lumped together—and knowing which one you’re facing can make all the difference in how you respond.

They explore when it’s time to pause therapy, how to lean into alternative strategies, and why creating space for life experiences might be just as valuable as traditional treatment. With practical advice and a fresh perspective, this conversation helps parents recognize what their child—and family system—actually needs.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Paul Arredondo dive into the often misunderstood skill of de-escalation—what it really means, when it’s needed, and how to do it well. Whether your child is in full meltdown mode or just emotionally off-track, this episode offers grounded, practical strategies to help you meet them where they are.

They break down the importance of reflective listening, grounding yourself as a parent, recognizing dysregulation, and using co-regulation to guide your child back to calm. De-escalation isn’t a one-and-done—it’s a repeated, patient process rooted in connection, presence, and care.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Paul Arredondo explore one of the biggest challenges in modern parenting: translating knowledge into action. It’s one thing to understand mental and behavioral health concepts—it’s another to apply them effectively in your family.

They dive into how parents often get stuck in cycles of learning without implementing, leading to burnout and frustration. Through this honest conversation, Robert and Paul share how to break those cycles, develop individualized strategies, and build a strong, supportive team that creates space for growth and real change. Whether you’re just starting your parenting journey or deep in the thick of it, this episode offers practical insight into taking meaningful steps forward.

Many parents turn to behavior contracts, hoping they’ll create accountability and change. But do they really work? In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Paul Arredondo break down the common misconceptions around behavioral contracts and why they often fail.

They discuss the difference between concepts and action, why children don’t respond to written agreements, and how parents can focus on real, sustainable change instead. Instead of relying on contracts, the key is trust, consistency, and building strong family relationships.

Parenting is a long game, and sometimes, it feels like there’s no end to the challenges. In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Paul Arredondo dive into the concept of therapeutic fatigue—how both parents and children can feel emotionally drained by the ongoing work of growth and change.

They discuss why self-care isn’t selfish but necessary, how to recognize patterns in family dynamics, and why reinvesting in relationships is key to long-term healing. There’s no quick fix, but with patience and intention, families can create space for real change.

How do parents build meaningful, lasting relationships with their children? In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Mary Zaunbrecher explore the importance of rapport, quality time, and intentional conversations. They discuss how parents can move beyond logistical interactions to truly connect with their kids, even when life gets busy.

From recognizing your child’s unique needs to creating flexible family time, this episode offers practical strategies for fostering deeper bonds. Learn how small, consistent efforts can make a big impact on your relationship with your child.

How much privacy should kids have? In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Mary Zaunbrecher dive into the challenges of parenting tweens and teens in a digital age. They explore how to balance respect for privacy with the need to ensure safety—especially when it comes to friendships and technology use. The conversation highlights the role of trust, the impact of phones on family dynamics, and the importance of setting clear boundaries early on. Parents will gain insights on how to foster open communication and create a supportive environment where kids can learn responsibility while still feeling heard.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Paul Arredondo explore how parents can build sustainable, healthy structures within their family systems. They discuss the importance of setting clear expectations, following through with consequences, and making the system work effectively without constant parental intervention. By focusing on their own responses and reinforcing consistency, parents can create an environment where children learn responsibility and accountability. Tune in for practical strategies to reduce stress and foster long-term success in parenting.

In Episode 29 of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Mary Zaunbrecher explore the struggles within family systems and how parental mental health shapes the overall family dynamic. They discuss the concept of the “identified patient” and why it’s crucial to look beyond the child who appears to be struggling, focusing instead on the family as a whole. Through conversations on communication, boundary-setting, and self-awareness, they offer insights on creating a healthier, more supportive home environment.

In Episode 28 of Parent Problems Today, host Robert Trout and guest Paul Arredondo explore the complexities of tween dating and what it means for both kids and parents. They discuss the challenges parents face as their children begin navigating relationships, emphasizing the importance of open communication, understanding developmental readiness, and creating a safe space for conversations about dating and relationships. The discussion also highlights how cultural influences, family values, and early experiences shape a child’s perspective on dating.

In Episode 27 of Parent Problems Today, hosts Robert Trout and Paul Arredondo explore the complexities of healthy friendships for tweens, teens, and young adults. They discuss recognizing toxic relationships, the role of online friendships, and how parents can empower their children to navigate social dynamics with confidence. This episode highlights the importance of curiosity over judgment, open communication, and teaching discernment in friendships.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, hosts Robert Trout and Paul Arredondo explore the transformative power of mentorship in the lives of teenagers and young adults. They discuss how parents can identify opportunities to connect their children with mentors while also encouraging their kids to take on mentoring roles themselves. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding a child’s passions, the benefits of internships and jobs, and mentorship as a tool for both guidance and personal development.

In Episode 25 of Parent Problems Today, hosts Robert Trout and Mary Zaunbrecher tackle listener-submitted parenting challenges. From navigating trust and technology to managing the complexities of blended families and maintaining parental authority amidst grandparental influences, they provide actionable insights for modern parents. This episode emphasizes the importance of open communication, setting clear boundaries, and fostering accountability in family dynamics. Tune in for relatable advice and strategies to handle the universal yet unique challenges of parenting today.

In this engaging episode of Parent Problems Today, hosts Robert Trout and Paul Arredondo tackle real-life parenting challenges submitted by listeners. Covering topics like childhood anxiety, teenage friendships, bullying, and the emotional shifts of preadolescence, they provide practical advice and insights to help parents navigate these common struggles.

The discussion highlights the importance of understanding emotional needs, fostering emotional intelligence, and adapting parenting strategies to support healthy relationships and resilience in children. From addressing nighttime anxiety to creating safe spaces for open communication, this episode offers actionable solutions to empower parents in building stronger family dynamics.

In this deeply insightful episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout speaks with Todd Weatherly about his transformative journey as a father navigating his child’s transgender identity. Todd reflects on the initial shock of his child’s revelation, the importance of therapy, and the emotional challenges of understanding and supporting the transition. They discuss the complexities of parental acceptance, affirmation strategies, and the necessary personal growth for both parents and children in this process.

Todd shares his perspective on the importance of open communication, personal growth, and love in supporting a transgender child. The conversation also emphasizes the value of seeking reliable resources and community support, as well as understanding the impact of societal norms on family dynamics.

This episode offers practical advice and emotional insight for parents navigating similar journeys, highlighting the need for thoughtful, supportive, and informed approaches to gender identity and transition.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Mary Zaunbrecher dive into the often-misunderstood concept of intervention. They challenge the typical portrayal of intervention, exploring how it can be a gradual, strategic process rather than a dramatic family confrontation. The hosts emphasize the importance of recognizing behavioral patterns and implementing strategies to disrupt negative cycles, from simple actions like limiting screen time to more significant changes in living arrangements.

They discuss the spectrum of intervention strategies, the emotional responses that may arise, and the essential role of community support. Parents are encouraged to seek help when needed and to tailor intervention approaches to fit their unique family dynamics, framing intervention as a collaborative effort focused on fostering positive change.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout, Mary Zaunbrecher, and Paul Arredondo discuss the importance of building a strong, supportive community for parents facing the challenges of raising tweens, teens, and young adults. They explore various ways to find support, from social media and local groups to unconventional methods like yoga or meditation classes.

The conversation highlights the necessity of self-care for parents and the importance of skill development within support groups. The hosts also emphasize that it’s okay to outgrow support groups and encourage parents to seek connection, accountability, and understanding in order to navigate the ups and downs of parenting.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Paul Arredondo explore the power of authenticity in parenting, especially during the tween, teen, and young adult years. They discuss how parents can model emotional language to help children express their feelings, the differences between transparency and authenticity, and how to avoid the pitfalls of shame and blame in family dynamics.

The conversation also delves into the importance of collaborative communication and the role of parents as mentors in emotional regulation. With practical tips for building emotional vocabulary, creating safe spaces for dialogue, and teaching emotional regulation, this episode offers essential insights for fostering deeper connections with your children.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Mary Zaunbrecher dive into the challenges of managing meltdowns in children, tweens, teens, and young adults. They explore the wide range of behaviors that can signal a meltdown and provide practical tools for prevention, including the power of predictability, routines, and understanding triggers.

When meltdowns happen, staying calm and supportive is key—and this episode is packed with strategies for co-regulation, de-escalation, and effective behavior management. Learn how to tailor approaches to your child’s unique needs, while maintaining a steady and confident parenting presence.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Paul Arredondo dive into the powerful concept of co-regulation in parenting. They explore how parents can regulate their own emotions to effectively help their children do the same. With practical techniques like breathing exercises and physical relaxation methods, they share how parents can create a safe and calm environment for communication and connection.

The discussion also highlights how understanding family dynamics and modeling calm behavior can break negative patterns, fostering healthier relationships within the family.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Paul Arredondo break down the often-overwhelming topic of executive functioning and time management in children. They discuss the developmental differences that contribute to these challenges and share practical advice on building routines, improving communication, and fostering a supportive family environment.

From managing parental anxiety to introducing tools like calendars and weekly family meetings, this conversation offers actionable strategies to help your kids (and you!) navigate the complexities of time management with more confidence and less stress.

In Episode 16: Young Adults—Red Flags to Watch For of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Joanna Lilley explore the key warning signs for parents to monitor as their young adults gain independence. Covering changes in behavior, communication patterns, and lifestyle habits, they discuss how to identify potential mental health concerns without compromising the young adult’s need for autonomy. This episode offers insights on maintaining open communication, understanding individual development, and intervening early when red flags appear.

In this special episode of Parent Problems Today, Mary Zaunbrecher, Paul M. Arredondo, and Robert Trout dive deep into the unique challenges families face during the holiday season. The holidays should be magical, but they often bring stress, pressure, and emotional overload—for parents and kids alike.

We’re talking about how to handle shifting schedules, manage family expectations, and create meaningful moments without losing yourself in the chaos. From preparing kids for holiday changes to keeping traditions flexible and prioritizing self-care, this conversation is packed with practical tips to help your family thrive during this busy season.

In Episode 15: Gaming Part 2 of Parent Problems Today, hosts Robert Trout, Paul Arradondo, and Mary Zaunbrecher continue the conversation on navigating gaming’s role in family life. They dive into essential topics like parental involvement, gaming economics, educational opportunities, online safety, and understanding the difference between gaming addiction and lifestyle. This episode emphasizes the power of engagement, communication, and shared understanding between parents and kids in managing healthy gaming habits.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Paul Arredondo dive into the challenges and opportunities of online gaming for parents and kids alike. They explore how gaming impacts family dynamics, from time management to setting boundaries that work for everyone. The hosts also unpack the effects of game content on mental health and discuss both the positive and potentially risky social interactions gaming can bring. With a focus on fostering communication, building healthy gaming habits, and balancing family priorities, this episode offers valuable insights for parents navigating the digital gaming landscape.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Paul Arredondo dive into the fundamentals of trauma, unpacking how it impacts individuals and family systems alike. They explore trauma as both a physical and neurological experience, emphasizing how differently it can manifest from person to person. From hypervigilance to maladaptive behaviors, the hosts discuss common trauma responses and provide practical advice on supporting healing within families. Patience, curiosity, and a strong support system are key in navigating trauma’s ripple effects and fostering long-term resilience.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Paul Arredondo dive deeper into the complexities of sibling dynamics within families dealing with mental health challenges. They offer practical insights on how parents can support both the struggling child and their siblings. From creating individualized roles to fostering stronger bonds, the hosts provide a six-step framework to guide families through these difficult situations. Whether you’re dealing with tweens, teens, or young adults, this episode offers valuable strategies to help you nurture healthier relationships within the family.

In Episode 11 of Parent Problems Today, Robert Trout and Mary Zahnbrecher explore the concept of enmeshment in family relationships. They explain what enmeshment looks like, how it affects both parents and children, and why it’s important to recognize the difference between helping and over-involvement. Through real-life examples, they dive into how enmeshment can create emotional challenges and why setting healthy boundaries is crucial for family growth.

If you’re feeling stuck in your parenting role or want to better understand how to empower your children while still being supportive, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Parent Trainers Robert Trout and Paul M. Arredondo dive into the tricky topic of school refusal, breaking down what it looks like at different ages—from tweens to young adults. They explore the underlying reasons like anxiety and stress, and how these struggles can manifest in refusing to attend school. With practical tips, they show parents how to stay calm, create open conversations, and help their kids develop the resilience and problem-solving skills they need to overcome school refusal.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Parent Trainers Robert Trout and Paul M. Arredondo explore how a sibling’s mental health can impact the entire family. They dive into the importance of recognizing and addressing the needs of all siblings, not just the one struggling. Learn how to build strong relationships with each child, create a safe space for open conversation, and involve siblings in the support process. Robert and Paul share insights on developing individual roles for each sibling, avoiding an ‘us versus them’ dynamic, and fostering positive sibling relationships. Don’t miss this essential guide to navigating family dynamics and supporting every child in the family.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, Parent Trainers Robert Trout and Paul M. Arredondo dive into the essential concept of rupture and repair in parent-child relationships. They explore what happens when conflicts arise (rupture) and how to effectively address and resolve these issues (repair). Learn why self-reflection and recognizing your triggers are key to breaking generational patterns and improving communication with your child.

Robert and Paul discuss how executive functioning impacts parent-child dynamics and emphasize the importance of creating space for your child’s perspective. They offer practical steps to repair relationships, especially with teenagers: 1) Becoming a ‘we’ and working together, 2) Trying new communication strategies, and 3) Letting go of the outcome and embracing progress over perfection. Discover how initiating repair on less emotionally charged topics can set the stage for tackling bigger challenges. Tune in to learn how to foster a sense of belonging and connection through the power of repair.

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, hosts Robert Trout and Paul Arredondo explore the all-too-familiar pitfalls that can trip up even the most well-meaning parents. If you’ve ever felt like you’re just trying to keep your head above water while raising your kids, you’re not alone!

Robert and Paul dive into the reality that parenting strategies often take more than one try to yield results—so don’t give up after the first attempt! They share relatable stories about the importance of patience and consistency, reminding us that teaching our kids about accountability means we have to follow through on consequences, even when it’s tempting to let things slide.

Ever find yourself assuming you know what your child is thinking? The hosts highlight how critical it is to take a step back and understand your child’s perspective instead of jumping to conclusions. They also tackle the common trap of expecting quick fixes—spoiler alert: parenting is a journey, not a race!

Amid the chaos, Robert and Paul emphasize that self-care isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity. You can’t show up as the resilient, supportive parent your child needs if you’re running on empty. So, take a breather, grab a cup of coffee (or tea!), and remember: it’s okay to prioritize yourself!

In this episode of Parent Problems Today, hosts Robert Trout and Paul Arredondo tackle a topic that every parent can relate to: assessment. They share why taking a step back and truly understanding your child’s needs is essential before reacting to their behavior. Parenting isn’t just about managing day-to-day challenges; it’s about digging deeper to find out what’s really going on beneath the surface.

Robert and Paul encourage parents to practice self-assessment and self-regulation, reminding us that our responses can significantly impact our children. They discuss practical ways to swap out unhelpful behaviors for healthier ones, showing that it’s possible to create a nurturing environment that addresses the root causes of challenges.

Welcome to Parent Problems, the podcast where hosts Robert Trout and Paul delve into the complexities of parenting and explore transformative approaches to create positive changes in family dynamics. Through candid discussions, they focus on how parents can effectively address behavioral and mental health issues in their children by first recognizing and addressing their own patterns and contributions to the family environment.

In each episode, Robert and Paul emphasize the importance of self-assessment and self-care for parents. They advocate for a team approach, encouraging the involvement of life coaches, mentors, and various support programs to build a strong support network for both parents and children.

In this episode of “Parent Problems,” Robert Trout, Paul Arradondo, and Mary Zahnbreaker delve into the complex issue of parents being their children’s problems. They explore the dynamics of parental guilt, the impact of parents’ reactions on their children, and the importance of maintaining consistent boundaries.

In conclusion, the episode underscores that while parents might be contributing to their children’s problems, the solution lies in parents’ ability to regulate their own emotions, maintain consistent boundaries, and allow children to experience and learn from their own emotional experiences. This approach helps in developing a healthier family dynamic and fosters independence and resilience in children.