Marijuana and Teens: Facts, Myths & Conversations That Help

In this episode of The Parenting Pair Podcast, Dr. Suzanne Allen and Dr. Annalise Caron unpack the myths and realities around teens and marijuana. With cannabis now legal in many states, parents are left wondering what’s normal experimentation, what’s risky, and how to talk about it without shutting their teen down. Together, they explore: How marijuana affects the developing teen brain Why legalization and changing norms can give teens mixed messages The difference between occasional use and patterns that raise red flags How to have open, curious conversations that keep your teen talking Strategies for setting boundaries while maintaining trust and connection If you’ve ever worried about your teen and marijuana—or just want to be prepared for the conversation—this episode will give you clarity, language, and compassion to navigate it with confidence. Here are some highlights from this episode: 0:00 Parenting in the era of legal weed 1:14 Listener question: Teen thinks marijuana is safe 3:35 Risk-taking in adolescence 6:08 How marijuana affects the teen brain 10:08 Short-term vs. long-term risks 10:48 “Weed helps me” – tips for talking with your teen 14:30 Parent use vs. teen use 15:22 Why today’s marijuana is stronger 17:04 Edibles, vaping & hidden dangers 20:51 Delta-8 vs. Delta-9: what parents should know 24:15 Talking with other parents about marijuana 26:44 Heavy teen use & when to seek help 30:11 What now: Conversations & safety plans 32:13 Final advice for parents DISCLAIMER: The Parenting Pair Podcast is designed for informational and educational purposes only. Do not rely on the information presented in this podcast as as a substitute or replacement for professional -- psychological or medical -- advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have concerns about you or a family member's well being, please contact a licensed mental health professional or physician.