In this episode of Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys!, Kathy sits down with Dr. Will Dobud—researcher, educator, outdoor therapist, and co-author of Kids These Days: Understanding and Supporting Youth Mental Health. Together, they explore the complex realities facing boys and young men today, from the challenges of the education system to the importance of play, risk-taking, and authentic connection. Will shares his refreshing perspective on treating young people as “crew, not passengers,” and offers insights for parents who want to support their sons’ confidence and sense of worth, even when schools and systems feel slow to change.This conversation is filled with wisdom, storytelling, and practical advice for parents, educators, and anyone who cares about the next generation of boys.**********Feeling motivated? Here's a short, powerful coaching experience to help you tune in, connect, and understand your son—one tiny step at a time.Join my free 1:1 Tiny Challenge™: 3 Days to a Stronger Connection With Your Son✨ In just 3 days, you’ll take one small step each day to understand, connect, and affirm your son—no overwhelm, no pressure, just powerful parenting in action.Here’s how it works: ✔️ I’ll send you one simple action + reflection each day ✔️ You’ll message me back with your experience ✔️ I’ll support you personally with insights, encouragement, and next steps👉 Ready to get started? You can just send me a note at [email protected] and say “I’m in!” and I’ll take care of the rest.**********Guest BioDr. Will Dobud is an award-winning researcher, educator, and outdoor therapist whose work has been recognized internationally for excellence in research, teaching, and even crime prevention. He is a Senior Lecturer in Social Work at Charles Sturt University in Australia and an invited speaker who delivers workshops for therapists and families around the globe. Will’s research focuses on improving therapy outcomes for teenagers and promoting safe, ethical practices, especially through wilderness and adventure-based approaches.He is also the co-author, alongside Dr. Nevin J. Harper, of Kids These Days: Understanding and Supporting Youth Mental Health—a book that reframes how we see young people, reminding us of the critical role of relationships, play, and exploration in fostering resilience and well-being.Topics CoveredWhy youth mental health is best understood as a “wicked problem”Rethinking compulsory schooling and helping boys who are struggling in educationHow disconnection, over-labeling, and over-diagnosing are affecting young peopleThe importance of rough-and-tumble play for resilience and growth“Crew, not passengers”: reframing how we see young people’s role in their own livesPractical advice for parents: creating home as a safe place where boys feel heard, valued, and confidentThe power of modeling: why teens need adults worth imitatingLinks 📖 Kids These Days: Understanding and Supporting Youth Mental Health (Available September 30)www.willdobud.com

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