It’s Not Your Fault

In this episode of It's Not Your Fault Podcast, Brandon Jones unpacks what's really behind a teen's "whatever": the eye rolls, the shrugs, the walls that go up the moment you ask what's wrong. For parents, it can feel like indifference, but it's often something much deeper. What does "whatever" actually mean, and how can parents respond in a way that opens the door instead of closing it further?

On this episode of It's Not Your Fault Podcast, host Brandon Jones explores the connection between gambling culture and teen mental health. Learn how this growing trend is influencing young people, the warning signs families should recognize, and how parents and caregivers can have supportive conversations that encourage healthy decision-making. #ItsNotYourFaultPodcast #TeenMentalHealth #YouthMentalHealth #ParentingTeens ------------------------------------------------ This show is part of the ShelettaMakesMeLaugh.com podcasting network, a group of shows that celebrate Black culture and creativity. Find MORE entertaining and enlightening podcasts hosted by Black folks for Black folks at shelettamakesmelaugh.com

In this episode of It's Not Your Fault Podcast, Brandon Jones explores social prescribing, an innovative approach used in the UK that connects families, counselors, and local communities to meaningful activities that help teens build confidence, relationships, and a sense of belonging. Could this model be part of the future of teen mental health in the U.S.?

What happens when you discover your teen is gambling online? On this episode of It's Not Your Fault Podcast, Brandon Jones discusses how digital gambling culture, influencers, and online platforms are influencing teens today. Learn the warning signs, how to start the conversation, and what parents can do to support their teens in making healthy choices.

Brandon Jones, tackles the tough conversation how to talk to your child when tragedy hits close to home.

In this episode of Its Not Your Fault Podcast, host Brandon Jones talks about Coded Predator Language, Online Grooming, and How Parents Can Protect Kids.  #mentalhealth #parenting #Protectkids #itsnotyourfaultpodcast

Host Brandon Jones provides strategies and tips to guide you on how to talk to your teen about trauma. 

In this episode of It's Not Your Fault, host Brandon Jones tackles the myths about teen mental health. 

Brandon Jones sits down with Sienna Lee, Minnesota’s first Youth Poet Laureate, to talk about poetry, healing through art, identity, and using your voice to inspire change.  

In this episode of It’s Not Your Fault Podcast, host Brandon Jones talks about how parents and caregivers can help teens manage anger in healthy ways. Learn how to recognize emotional triggers, improve communication, and support teens through frustration, stress, and overwhelming emotions.

In this episode of It’s Not Your Fault Podcast, host Brandon Jones unpacks why so many teens feel anxious about money and the fear of being broke.

In this episode of It’s Not Your Fault Podcast, host Brandon Jones explores how teens can maintain strong mental health while navigating dating. 

In this episode of It’s Not Your Fault Podcast, host Brandon Jones addresses what to do when your teen is in an active mental health crisis.

In this episode of It’s Not Your Fault Podcast, host Brandon Jones breaks down common mistakes people make when trying to support teens—and what not to do when it comes to mental health. Learn how to better show up, avoid harmful patterns, and create safe, supportive spaces for teens to be heard and understood.

In this episode of It’s Not Your Fault Podcast, host Brandon Jones explores how pets can support teen mental health.  

In this episode of It’s Not Your Fault Podcast, host Brandon Jones dives into an important conversation—what happens when teen boys start opening up about mental health.

In this episode of It’s Not Your Fault Podcast, host Brandon Jones sits down with Kristin Lofgren, a School-Based Behavioral Health Consultant with the Minnesota Department of Human Services, to discuss the importance of mental health support and accessible resources. They dive into the MN Warmline—what it is, how it works, and how it provides free, confidential peer support for individuals who just need someone to talk to. This conversation highlights the power of connection, early support, and breaking the stigma around mental health. Resources Mentioned: Learn more: https://mn.gov/dhs/mental-wellness/ Minnesota Warmline phone number: 651-288-0400 Minnesota Warmline text number: Text “Support” to 85511 Chat online: mentalhealthmn.org

Instagram has introduced new Teen Safety Alerts designed to help protect young users online. In this episode of It’s Not Your Fault Podcast, host Brandon Jones breaks down what these alerts mean, how they work, and what parents and teens should know to stay safe on social media.

In this episode of It’s Not Your Fault with Brandon Jones, we break down the growing trend of text therapy in schools. What is it really? What isn’t it?

On this episode of It’s Not Your Fault: A Teen Mental Health Podcast, host Brandon Jones dives into the powerful connection between sleep and teen mental health. 

In this episode of It’s Not Your Fault Podcast, host Brandon Jones breaks down the recent move by Meta, TikTok, and Snap Inc. to be evaluated and graded on how well they protect teens online. What does this actually mean? #TeenSafety #SocialMediaNews #ItsNotYourFaultPodcast

In this episode of It’s Not Your Fault Podcast, host Brandon Jones explores the role of support animals in supporting teen mental health. From emotional comfort to building routine and connection, Brandon talks about why animals can be powerful companions during tough seasons.   

Host Brandon Jones discusses how AI can support teens’ mental health—without replacing human connection, care, or professional help.

On It’s Not Your Fault, host Brandon Jones explores why kids need “swim lessons” for the digital ocean. 

On It’s Not Your Fault, host Brandon Jones reflects on MLK’s dream and what it means for parenting today.

On this episode of It’s Not Your Fault, Brandon Jones discusses how ICE activity affects families and the mental health of children, highlighting fear, trauma, and the need for emotional support.

On this episode of It’s Not Your Fault, Brandon Jones explores how achievement culture is putting unhealthy pressure on teens—and the impact it has on their mental health. 

Host Brandon Jones explores Bigorexia—the hidden body image struggle affecting many teens. Learn how parents and caregivers can spot the signs, offer support, and promote healthy confidence. #Bigorexia #TeenHealth #ParentingTips #MentalHealth #ItsNotYourFaultPodcast

On this episode of It’s Not Your Fault, host Brandon Jones explains what chill rooms in schools are, why they’re being used, and what parents and caregivers should know. Brandon shares practical insight to help families understand how these spaces can support student regulation, behavior, and emotional well-being.

On this episode of the It’s Not Your Fault Podcast, host Brandon Jones breaks down how parents and caregivers can better support teens growing up in a world of early smartphone use. He shares simple ways to guide healthy habits, build trust, and stay connected while helping teens navigate the digital world safely and confidently.

On this episode of the It’s Not Your Fault Podcast, host Brandon Jones breaks down why structure, guidance, and real engagement are still essential for raising socially strong and emotionally grounded teens.    

On this episode of the It’s Not Your Fault Podcast, host Brandon Jones breaks down why parents must pay close attention to the everyday habits and behaviors of their children.

Brandon Jones talks about why the holidays can feel overwhelming for kids and shares simple solutions that help them feel heard, supported, and grounded during the season.

Brandon Jones breaks down why real growth comes from apprenticeship, not just advice. In this episode of It’s Not Your Fault Podcast, discover how hands-on experience builds mastery and confidence.

On this episode of the Its Not Your Fault Podcast, Host Brandon Jones talks about Raising Black Boys in a Time of Crisis — the real challenges, the emotional weight, and the tools families need to protect, support, and empower Black boys to thrive in today’s world.

On this episode of Its Not Your Fault Podcast, host Brandon Jones discusses how to support the mental and emotional health of LGBTQ+ youth. Learn practical ways to create safe spaces, build understanding, and promote healing.

On this episode of the It’s Not Your Fault Podcast, host Brandon Jones explores why it’s hard for boys to open up about their mental health.   #ItsNotYourFaultPodcast #BrandonJones #MentalHealthMatters  #EmotionalHealth #MentalHealth

On this episode of the It’s Not Your Fault Podcast, host Brandon Jones dives into the rising anxiety among Gen Z and how it’s shaping their daily lives. He shares practical ways parents, caregivers, and mentors can offer support, build trust, and help young people navigate a world that often feels overwhelming. #ItsNotYourFaultPodcast #BrandonJones #GenZ #MentalHealth #AnxietyAwareness #ParentSupport #YouthMentalHealth #Caregivers #EmotionalWellness

On this episode of It’s Not Your Fault Podcast, host Brandon Jones sits down with a Proof Alliance volunteer to shed light on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). #ItsNotYourFaultPodcast #BrandonJones #FASD #ProofAlliance #MentalHealthAwareness

On this episode of It’s Not Your Fault Podcast, host Brandon Jones breaks down the impact of screen time on today’s teens. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or youth worker, this conversation offers practical insights and tools to help guide teens toward healthier screen use. #ItsNotYourFaultPodcast #ParentingTips #TeenMentalHealth #ScreenTime #YouthWorkers

On It’s Not Your Fault, host Brandon Jones explores how young people often turn to AI for answers before reaching out to parents, teachers, or caregivers. This episode looks at what happens when that advice is harmful, the risks it creates, and how we can guide the next generation to safer, smarter choices online.

On this episode of It’s Not Your Fault, host Brandon Jones breaks down what real, lasting motivation looks like for today’s teens. Brandon shares practical tools and honest conversations that help teens not just get inspired but stay inspired. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or teen yourself, this episode offers strategies to build resilience, boost confidence, and create motivation that actually sticks.

On this episode of "It’s Not Your Fault," host Brandon Jones explores how caregivers and educators can support and uplift teens. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or mentor, this conversation offers practical tools and inspiration to help the young people in your life thrive.

In this episode of It’s Not Your Fault, host Brandon Jones breaks down how to have honest, age-appropriate conversations with young people after tragedy.  He shares practical ways to listen, respond, and create safe spaces for kids to express their feelings without fear or shame. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or mentor, this episode will equip you with tools to support young people through some of life’s hardest moments, only on It's Not Your Fault Podcast. 

In this episode of It’s Not Your Fault Podcast, host Brandon Jones sits down with the CDC to talk about the FreeMind campaign, a new initiative aimed at breaking down stigma and opening up real conversations around mental health. Together, they explore why FreeMind matters, how it’s helping communities, and what resources are available for anyone struggling or supporting loved ones. Learn more and access resources at cdc.gov/freemind .

In this episode of It’s Not Your Fault Podcast, host Brandon Jones tackles the unique challenges of parenting and supporting teens with Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD). Brandon shares practical strategies for building trust, reducing conflict, and fostering emotional safety, while also addressing common misconceptions about RAD. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or therapist, you’ll walk away with tools you can use right away to better connect with the adolescents in your life.

The CDC has launched a new mental health campaign aimed at supporting kids and teens, but what does it mean for the parents, guardians, and caregivers in their lives? In this episode of It's Not Your Fault Podcast, host Brandon Jones breaks down a few of the campaign’s key messages and shares practical ways adults and caregivers can put these insights into action.

In this episode of It’s Not Your Fault, Host Brandon Jones unpacks why poverty isn’t the main reason people struggle with mental health. Tune in as he delves deeper into this topic, only on It's Not Your Fault Podcast.

On It’s Not Your Fault Podcast, host Brandon Jones dives into the emotional weight of family estrangement and how it impacts adolescents. In this episode, Brandon offers insight and guidance for everyone. Whether you're a teenager, a caregiver, or someone who works with young people, this conversation is essential.

Brandon Jones shows you how caregivers can support young people who embrace the hustle culture on the latest episode of his teen mental health podcast.