We often hear about social media’s impact on body image, but what can we learn from someone who’s lived it firsthand, developing a serious exercise and eating disorder?

Dr. Delaney Ruston sits down with Isabelle, a teen who bravely shares her journey from body dysmorphia to a severe eating disorder, struggles made worse by the constant stream of triggering content on platforms like TikTok.

Isabelle opens up about how social media shaped her self-perception and how therapy, hospitalization, and strong family support helped her begin to heal.

With candid insights from Isabelle and her parents, this episode explores the real risks of social media use and sets the stage for a follow-up conversation with a leading eating disorder expert.

This episode is intended for adult and teen audiences but please note it includes discussion of eating disorders, body image, and related experiences, so please listen with care.

If you or someone you love is affected by any of the issues we talk about today, you’ll find a list of support resources below.

Resources:

National Alliance for Eating Disorders (“The Alliance”)

• Website: allianceforeatingdisorders.com

• Free helpline: 866‑662‑1235 (Mon–Fri, 9am–7pm ET)

• Offers: Personalized support and referrals. Also operates https://www.findEDhelp.com, a free directory of eating disorder treatment centers and providers.

National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA)

• Website: nationaleatingdisorders.org

• Offers: Free screening tools, treatment locators, support group listings, and educational materials.

Crisis Text Line

• Website: crisistextline.org

• Text “HOME” to 741‑741 to chat with a trained crisis counselor, or use the live chat at the website

• Offers: 24/7 mental health support, resources, and crisis intervention.

The Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ Youth)

• Website: thetrevorproject.org

• Text “START” to 678‑678 to connect with a crisis counselor

• Offers: 24/7 crisis support, online chat, and mental health resources tailored to LGBTQ+ youth.

Time Codes:

00:00 Introduction to Parenting in the Screen Age

00:19 The Impact of Media on Teen Body Image

00:46 Influencers and the Promotion of Eating Disorders

02:21 Isabel's Journey with an Eating Disorder

03:26 The Role of Social Media in Isabel's Struggle

05:11 Family Perspectives on Isabel's Experience

11:48 The Turning Point: Seeking Treatment

12:55 Life After Treatment: Recovery and Reflections

17:08 Advice for Parents and Teens

20:40 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes

Struggling to get on the same page with your co-parent about screen time rules? Worried that enforcing boundaries might harm your relationship with your teen?

In this episode, Delaney talks with renowned family psychologist and author Dr. Laura Kastner about the tricky — but crucial — process of setting and upholding screen time rules. Together, they explore a practical roadmap built around The Four Cs: Calm, Confidence, Co-Parent Unity, and Collaboration.

Packed with relatable examples and expert-backed strategies, this conversation will help you navigate resistance and hold boundaries that support your child’s emotional development and well-being.

Featured Expert

Laura Kastner, PhD

Books

Getting To Calm, by Laura Kastner, PhD

Wise Minded Parenting, by Laura Kastner, PhD

Time Code

00:00 Understanding the Core Issue: Fear and Relationships

00:27 Introduction to Parenting in the Screen Age

00:45 Challenges of Setting Screen Time Boundaries

01:10 Real-Life Examples of Unpopular Rules

02:31 Interview with Dr. Laura Kasner: The Four Cs

02:58 Applying the Four Cs to Real Scenarios

04:45 Staying Calm and Confident

06:23 Co-Parenting and Collaboration

08:39 Handling Teen Reactions and Family Meetings

12:18 Polarization and Parental Unity

20:03 Concluding Thoughts and Resources

How risky are the high volumes blasting through the earpods that poke into our kids’ ears? What about our adult ears?

In this episode, Dr. Delaney Ruston explores the fascinating world of hearing health and the risks associated with exposure to loud noises, especially through headphones and earphones.

Delaney is joined by Dr. Robert Jackler, MD, a researcher and neurotologist from Stanford, who discusses the mechanics of hearing loss, the dangers of excessive noise exposure, and practical steps to protect hearing.

The show provides numerous productive ways for parents and youth to engage in conversations about all the loud sounds streaming into their ears, whether from platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, or from online content and video games. It is intended for adult and youth audiences.

Featured Expert

Dr. Robert Jackler, MD

Additional Links

Mimi Hearing Test App

Time code

00:00 Introduction

01:49 The Impact of Loud Music on Hearing

02:19 Expert Insights: Dr. Robert Jacker on Hearing Health

03:32 Understanding Sound Levels and Hearing Loss

06:38 Protecting Your Hearing: Practical Tips

09:33 Smartphone Solutions for Hearing Safety

15:54 Encouraging Regular Hearing Tests

18:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts