184. What Every Teen and Parent Needs to Know About Online Safety and Sexual Predators

Have you ever wondered whether the person messaging you online is actually who they say they are? In this episode, Leslie sits down with Dr. Bronwen Carroll, a pediatric emergency medicine physician at Boston Medical Center, to have the conversation that most adults are not having with teens but absolutely should be. Dr. Carroll breaks down the real risks of sexting, explains what sextortion is and how fast it can escalate, and walks through the exact grooming behaviors predators use both online and in person so you know what to watch for. Whether you are active on social media, gaming platforms, or just starting to navigate online relationships, this episode gives you practical tools to recognize warning signs early, understand your rights, and know what to do if you ever find yourself in a situation that feels wrong. You are not alone, and you are not to blame. Knowledge is the most powerful protection you have. Parents: Dr. Carroll also speaks directly to you in this episode about why these conversations need to happen earlier than most parents think, how to start them even when the topic feels awkward, and how building what she calls "conversational scaffolding" with your teen creates a safe opening for them to come to you when things get hard. What is sextortion and why is the FBI issuing increased warnings about it specifically targeting teens? What are the most predictable grooming behaviors predators use online and in person that teens should be able to recognize immediately? Why is sexting risky even when the person receiving the image feels completely trustworthy? What does "conversational scaffolding" mean and why does starting these talks early make all the difference? What are the warning signs of in-person grooming by someone a teen already knows and trusts? What should a teen do right now if they are being threatened or targeted online? Connect with Bronwen: Website: https://www.bronwencarrollmd.com/ Instagram at @bronwencarrollmd Connect with Leslie: Parents: Schedule a free Clarity Call with Leslie here to help your teen or young adult resolve weight and unhealthy eating habits, while improving body image and self-esteem.   Grab Leslie's free guide: 5 Ways to Help Your Teen Eat Better Without Making Things Worse Website: leslierosecoaching.com Instagram: instagram.com/leslierosecoaching Facebook: facebook.com/leslierosecoaching Disclaimer