Episode 39: All About Puberty with Vanessa Kroll Bennett and Cara Natterson, MD

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Gynarchy Podcast, we talk with puberty educator Vanessa Kroll-Bennett and pediatrician and bestselling author Cara Natterson a, co-founders of Less Awkward, about the complex, evolving experience of puberty. We cover what puberty really is, why it’s starting earlier and lasting longer, and how parents can better support their kids through the physical, emotional, and social changes of these years.Vanessa and Cara share their journey into puberty education and explain why open, ongoing conversations—no matter how awkward—are essential. We discuss the science behind puberty, including hormonal changes, brain development, and the wide range of what is considered “typical.” They also break down common misconceptions, highlight differences in how boys and girls experience puberty, and offer practical, realistic guidance for parents navigating this stage alongside their children.Topics we cover in this episode:What puberty is and how it extends beyond physical changesWhy puberty is starting earlier and lasting longer than in previous generationsKey contributors to earlier puberty, including environmental factors, body composition, and stressHow chronic stress impacts kids’ development and hormone regulationWhat parents can realistically control—and why guilt isn’t helpfulPractical tips for supporting healthy habits: nutrition, movement, sleep, and balanceWhy failure and setbacks are essential for growth and resilienceEarly signs of puberty in girls and boysEmotional changes, including mood swings and shifting behaviorThe difference between puberty and adrenarche (body odor, acne, hair growth)Common but confusing changes like asymmetrical breast development and spontaneous erectionsTypical timelines for puberty and why variation is normalSigns that a first period may be approachingNormal vaginal discharge and why it’s important to talk about openlyWhen to seek medical care for delayed or irregular periodsThe impact of intense athletics and the female athlete triadWhy conversations about bodies and health need to be ongoingCommon myths about puberty—including the idea that it’s only about girlsSupporting boys through emotional development and challenging cultural normsReframing puberty as a meaningful, not just difficult, life stageTune in on Monday, May 18th, and subscribe to The Gynarchy Podcast to stay updated on future episodes.Connect with Cara Natterson & Vanessa Kroll-Bennett:Website: www.LessAwkward.comPodcast: This Is So AwkwardInstagram: @less.awkwardSupport the showThe Gynarchy Podcast is available now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other platforms. Follow Us for Updates:‌Bluesky: @thegynarchy Instagram: @thegynarchyTikTok: @thegynarchy YouTube: @thegynarchyNewsletter sign upWebsite: www.thegynarchypodcast.com‌Earn FREE CE/CME credit for listening to our episodes by joining the Learn at Pinnacle app:https://learnatpinnacle.com/education______Disclaimer: This podcast and related content are for informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute medical, financial, legal, psychological, or other professional advice. Views expressed are those of the hosts and guests, not their employers, and are not tailored to individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified professional before making decisions. By using this content, you agree the creators are not liable for any outcomes or damages resulting from reliance on it.Inclusivity statement:  The Gynarchy is cr...