Raising the Next Gen Podcast

In this episode of Raising the Next Gen, I sit down with Alanna Negri, a dream maker, education advisor, and regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant, to explore how parents and teens can navigate the often overwhelming journey of post-secondary education. Alanna shares wisdom from 25 years of experience helping students discover their passions, bridge the gap between parental expectations and pe...

In Season Two, I share life lately, from supporting my daughter’s transition to high school to caring for my aging parents, and doing it while finding new ways to balance “full days” versus “busy days.” Through my reflections, I explore how shifting mindset and priorities can transform overwhelm into gratitude and connection. You’ll also get a preview of new guest episodes and I'd love for you to...

In this episode of Raising the Next Gen, Sonia Dong speaks with Dr. Jennifer Noble (aka Dr. Jen), a clinical psychologist specializing in teens and mixed race identity. Dr. Jen shares valuable insights from her work with adolescents and parents and the complexities of identity, belonging, and independence during the tween and teen years. Dr. Jen explains how mixed race teens often face additional...

Licensed marriage and family therapist Souraya Matar joins host Sonia Dong in this episode of Raising the Next Gen. Souraya opens up about the challenges of early motherhood, seeking out postpartum support, and how becoming a certified parenting coach helped her shift from reactive to conscious parenting. Together, they explore the power of self-awareness, breaking generational cycles, and creatin...

In this episode of Raising the Next Gen, host Sonia Dong is joined by Natasha Agha—speech pathologist, private practice mentor, and mom of two—for a candid conversation about navigating separation, co-parenting, and burnout. Natasha shares how she transitioned from juggling multiple businesses and parenting on autopilot to creating space for self-reflection, presence, and clarity. Together, they e...

In this episode of Raising the Next Gen, Sonia Dong chats with Amy Aravantinos. Amy is a single mom, fitness coach, and founder of Body by Blondi and she opens up about the real-life challenges and growth that come with big transitions. Amy tells us about moving homes and schools with her 8-year-old daughter, and how she supported her through anxiety, overwhelm, and change. We dive into practical...

What if chores weren’t just a necessary evil—but a hidden opportunity to connect with your kids, take time back, and curb the clicks? As summer routines kick in, I explore how simple shifts—like blasting a family playlist while cleaning or trying new recipes together—can turn chores into something a little more fun. Chores can teach important life skills like independence, responsibility, and team...

In this heartfelt and honest conversation, I’m joined by teacher and author Natalie Boccia—mom of three kids spanning a decade, cancer survivor, and champion for healing through storytelling. We talk about what it’s like to parent across two generations under one roof while navigating perimenopause, personal growth, and the ever-changing needs of her family. Together, we explore the evolving natur...

How do we raise kids who are curious, confident, and capable when it comes to money? In this episode of Raising the Next Gen, I sit down with Justin Chung, host of the MoneyDad Podcast, to explore how parents can do away with a scarcity mindset and embrace an abundance mindset with their kids. We talk about age-appropriate ways to talk to kid about money and how parents can model a healthy relatio...

Yollanda Zhang joins Sonia in this episode of Raising the Next Gen, where we discuss generational patterns and how we're healing from them, the importance of self-care and mindfulness for parents, and more. As mother, Ontario-certified teacher, and entrepreneur, Yollanda brings both professional expertise and lived experience to her work. Join us for a real and raw conversation where we discuss ou...

In this solo episode of Raising the Next Gen, we go back to 2011—before I became a mom and was inspired by the Tiger Mom philosophy made famous by Amy Chua’s Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother. As an expectant parent and fellow Asian woman, I resonated deeply with the ideas of Tiger Parenting and thought that this was the path for me. Now, 14 years later, I realize that becoming a parent unraveled ma...

In this episode of Raising the Next Gen, we step inside the playroom with Maimoona Batool to explore how play therapy can be a powerful tool for helping children and teens navigate big feelings, trauma, and life transitions. Maimoona shares what led her to focus on play therapy and how it promotes emotional regulation, healing, and connection between kids and their caregivers. We unpack the signs...

What is attachment parenting, and why does it matter—especially now, as our kids grow into teens and tweens? In this powerful and insightful episode of Raising the Next Gen, we explore the deep connection between parenting styles, attachment theory, and youth mental health. Joining me is Janany Jayanthikumar, a compassionate and experienced clinical social worker and educator, who brings clarity a...

In this episode of Raising the Next Gen, I speak with Dr. Julia Sen, the "Possibility Psychologist™," about breaking the stereotype that the teen and tween years must be a difficult stage in parenting. A major theme in this episode is the idea of being a “pattern breaker” or a “generational cycle changer.” Many of us were raised with discipline methods rooted in shame, compliance, and external val...

Screen time battles? Online safety worries? You're not alone! In this episode, learn practical tips for managing kids' tech use with safety, creativity, and balance.  Resources:  Paul Davis Nature Canada: Screen Time vs Green Time --- Did you like this episode? Remember to leave a review and hit that follow button so you never miss an episode!

This was going to be a book podcast...and this is why it evolved into something else. In this short introductory episode, I talk about why I decided to create a podcast by sharing a story about piano practice, a hard look at my own behaviour and making sure my daughter and I didn't go to bed mad at each other. --- Did you like this episode? Remember to leave a review and hit that follow button so...

Welcome to Raising the Next Gen, a podcast for parents of teens and tweens. I'm Sonia Dong, your host and a mom navigating the twists and turns of modern parenting. Each episode offers practical tips to help kids build resilience, explore their talents, and define success. With insights from experts, fellow parents, and my own experiences, we'll strive to make parenting easier, foster joy, and str...