Collett Smart wraps up the year with one of her most honest episodes yet. After taking time away from the podcast, she's back to share what really happened during her break – and it's not the polished story you might expect.

In this vulnerable ep, Collett opens up about the reality of juggling her work as a psychologist, caring for elderly family members, and keeping her marriage strong after three decades together. She's refreshingly honest about not getting everything right and the importance of hitting pause when life demands it. For parents trying to balance caring for teens whilst managing their own challenges, Collett's candid reflections will resonate.

This episode isn't just about Collett's personal journey – it's about the power of community and the impact your stories have had on families across Australia. Collett shares heartfelt feedback from listeners and how your questions and experiences have shaped the podcast into something truly meaningful.

But here's the exciting bit: Collett reveals what's coming in 2026. The new season kicks off in the first quarter with impressive guests, insightful mini-episodes, and answers to your burning questions about raising teenagers. She's calling on parents, educators, and caregivers to keep sharing their stories because this podcast thrives on the wisdom of the village raising teens together.

It's a genuine conversation about nurturing responsible, happy young adults whilst looking after yourself in the process.

Have a great end of the year Raising Teens Family!

 

 

Click here to contact Collett or ask her a question or Click here to contact the Raising Teens team.

Collett is a psychologist, qualified teacher, speaker, and internationally published author, with 25 years' experience working in private and public schools, as well as in private practice.

Visit Raising Teens for more resources, click here for Collett's books, or join the discussion on Facebook.

Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.

Collett Smart wraps up the year with one of her most honest episodes yet. After taking time away from the podcast, she's back to share what really happened during her break &ndash; and it's not the polished story you might expect.
In this vulnerable ep, Collett opens up about the reality of juggling her work as a psychologist, caring for elderly family members, and keeping her marriage strong after three decades together. She's refreshingly honest about not getting everything right and the importance of hitting pause when life demands it. For parents trying to balance caring for teens whilst managing their own challenges, Collett's candid reflections will resonate.
This episode isn't just about Collett's personal journey &ndash; it's about the power of community and the impact your stories have had on families across Australia. Collett shares heartfelt feedback from listeners and how your questions and experiences have shaped the podcast into something truly meaningful.
But here's the exciting bit: Collett reveals what's coming in 2026. The new season kicks off in the first quarter with impressive guests, insightful mini-episodes, and answers to your burning questions about raising teenagers. She's calling on parents, educators, and caregivers to keep sharing their stories because this podcast thrives on the wisdom of the village raising teens together.
It's a genuine conversation about nurturing responsible, happy young adults whilst looking after yourself in the process. Have a great end of the year Raising Teens Family!
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Click&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@raisingteenagers.com.au">here</a> to contact Collett or ask her a question or Click <a href="https://hope1032.com.au/show/raising-teens/">here</a> to contact the Raising Teens team.
<hr>
Collett is a psychologist, qualified teacher, speaker, and internationally published author, with 25 years' experience working in private and public schools, as well as in private practice.
Visit <a href="http://raisingteens.au/">Raising Teens</a> for more resources, click <a href="https://collettsmart.com/resources/">here</a> for Collett's books, or join the discussion on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/collettsmart/">Facebook</a>.
Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hopepodcasts.com.au/" aria-label="Link hopepodcasts.com.au">hopepodcasts.com.au</a>. And send the team a message via&nbsp;<a href="https://hope1032.com.au/listen/#apps" aria-label="Link Hope 103.2&rsquo;s app">Hope 103.2&rsquo;s app</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Hope103.2" aria-label="Link Facebook">Facebook</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/sydneyshope1032/" aria-label="Link Instagram">Instagram</a>.

When it comes to raising little ones, we often feel as though we have a small village around us – in morning play groups, meeting other parents at tots’ birthday parties, or on the sides of sports fields. It can feel like we have it (mostly) under control. Until our child gradually emerges into their teen years and so much changes! It is a unique time for both you and your child.

Sometimes, everything you thought you knew goes out the window and you’re struggling to keep up. You look around and the village seems to have diminished. Raising Teens will be part of your support system – your village! There will be something here for everyone who cares for teens. Most importantly, this is your resource, so we want to hear from you – your challenges, your suggestions – you are part of this community.

For more information, expert advice or to ask Collett a question, visit raisingteens.au.

The information provided on this podcast is for general educational purposes only and does not take into account your personal situation. It is not a substitute for professional advice. We recommend you seek a medical or healthcare professional if you are seeking advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via the Hope website, Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. 

When it comes to raising little ones, we often feel as though we have a small village around us – in morning play groups, meeting other parents at tots’ birthday parties, or on the sides of sports fields. It can feel like we have it (mostly) under control. Until our child gradually emerges into their teen years and so much changes! It is a unique time for both you and your child.
Sometimes, everything you thought you knew goes out the window and you’re struggling to keep up. You look around and the village seems to have diminished. Raising Teens will be part of your support system – your village! There will be something here for everyone who cares for teens. Most importantly, this is your resource, so we want to hear from you – your challenges, your suggestions – you are part of this community.
For more information, expert advice or to ask Collett a question, visit <a href="https://www.raisingteenagers.com.au/" data-auth="VerificationFailed" data-linkindex="0">raisingteens.au</a>.
The information provided on this podcast is for general educational purposes only and does not take into account your personal situation. It is not a substitute for professional advice. We recommend you seek a medical or healthcare professional if you are seeking advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at <a href="http://www.hopepodcasts.com.au/">hopepodcasts.com.au</a>. And send the team a message via the <a href="https://hope1032.com.au/listen/podcasts/">Hope website</a>, <a href="https://hope1032.com.au/listen/#apps">Hope 103.2’s app</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Hope103.2">Facebook</a> or <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sydneyshope1032/">Instagram</a>.

Raising Teens with Collett Smart

When it comes to raising little ones, we often feel as though we have a small village around us – in morning play groups, meeting other parents at tots’ birthday parties, or on the sides of sports fields. It can feel like we have it (mostly) under control. Until our child gradually emerges into their teen years and so much changes! It is a unique time for both you and your child.

Sometimes, everything you thought you knew goes out the window and you’re struggling to keep up. You look around and the village seems to have diminished. Raising Teens will be part of your support system – your village! There will be something here for everyone who cares for teens. Most importantly, this is your resource, so we want to hear from you – your challenges, your suggestions – you are part of this community.

For more information, expert advice or to ask Collett a question, visit raisingteens.au.

The information provided on this podcast is for general educational purposes only and does not take into account your personal situation. It is not a substitute for professional advice. We recommend you seek a medical or healthcare professional if you are seeking advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. 

When it comes to raising little ones, we often feel as though we have a small village around us – in morning play groups, meeting other parents at tots’ birthday parties, or on the sides of sports fields. It can feel like we have it (mostly) under control. Until our child gradually emerges into their teen years and so much changes! It is a unique time for both you and your child.
Sometimes, everything you thought you knew goes out the window and you’re struggling to keep up. You look around and the village seems to have diminished. Raising Teens will be part of your support system – your village! There will be something here for everyone who cares for teens. Most importantly, this is your resource, so we want to hear from you – your challenges, your suggestions – you are part of this community.
For more information, expert advice or to ask Collett a question, visit <a href="https://www.raisingteenagers.com.au/" data-auth="VerificationFailed" data-linkindex="0">raisingteens.au</a>.
The information provided on this podcast is for general educational purposes only and does not take into account your personal situation. It is not a substitute for professional advice. We recommend you seek a medical or healthcare professional if you are seeking advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at <a href="http://www.hopepodcasts.com.au/">hopepodcasts.com.au</a>. And send the team a message via <a href="https://hope1032.com.au/listen/#apps">Hope 103.2’s app</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Hope103.2">Facebook</a> or <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sydneyshope1032/">Instagram</a>.

Why This Psychologist Had to Hit Pause (And What It Taught Her)

Key Points:
Understanding legal responsibilities is crucial when teens commence driving alone.
Assessing a teen driver's experience and confidence helps gauge their readiness.
Safety must be a priority, especially when younger siblings are passengers.
The approach to driving should be gradual, with trust-building measures.
Continuous communication about safe practices reinforces learning and responsibility.

Notable Quotes:
"Letting our teens drive their younger siblings is another huge step."
"It's crucial to look at the legal side of things with our children, with our teens."
"Does your teen understand that they're not just a taxi for their sibling?"
"I think it's okay to consider easing into this whole new arrangement."

Resources:
Follow Collett Smart on Instagram and Facebook.
Learn more on Collett Smart’s website: www.collettsmart.com

 

Click here to contact Collett or ask her a question or Click here to contact the Raising Teens team.

Collett is a psychologist, qualified teacher, speaker, and internationally published author, with 25 years' experience working in private and public schools, as well as in private practice.

Visit Raising Teens for more resources, click here for Collett's books, or join the discussion on Facebook.

Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.

Key Points:
<ul>
<li>Understanding legal responsibilities is crucial when teens commence driving alone.</li>
<li>Assessing a teen driver's experience and confidence helps gauge their readiness.</li>
<li>Safety must be a priority, especially when younger siblings are passengers.</li>
<li>The approach to driving should be gradual, with trust-building measures.</li>
<li>Continuous communication about safe practices reinforces learning and responsibility.</li>
</ul>
Notable Quotes:
<ul>
<li>"Letting our teens drive their younger siblings is another huge step."</li>
<li>"It's crucial to look at the legal side of things with our children, with our teens."</li>
<li>"Does your teen understand that they're not just a taxi for their sibling?"</li>
<li>"I think it's okay to consider easing into this whole new arrangement."</li>
</ul>
Resources:
<ul>
<li>Follow Collett Smart on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/collettsmart/">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/collettsmart/">Facebook</a>.</li>
<li>Learn more on Collett Smart&rsquo;s website: <a href="https://www.collettsmart.com">www.collettsmart.com</a></li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
Click&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@raisingteenagers.com.au">here</a> to contact Collett or ask her a question or Click <a href="https://hope1032.com.au/show/raising-teens/">here</a> to contact the Raising Teens team.
<hr>
Collett is a psychologist, qualified teacher, speaker, and internationally published author, with 25 years' experience working in private and public schools, as well as in private practice.
Visit <a href="http://raisingteens.au/">Raising Teens</a> for more resources, click <a href="https://collettsmart.com/resources/">here</a> for Collett's books, or join the discussion on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/collettsmart/">Facebook</a>.
Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hopepodcasts.com.au/" aria-label="Link hopepodcasts.com.au">hopepodcasts.com.au</a>. And send the team a message via&nbsp;<a href="https://hope1032.com.au/listen/#apps" aria-label="Link Hope 103.2&rsquo;s app">Hope 103.2&rsquo;s app</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Hope103.2" aria-label="Link Facebook">Facebook</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/sydneyshope1032/" aria-label="Link Instagram">Instagram</a>.

Teen Drivers & Precious Cargo: When Siblings Are on Board

WIN Dr Arne’s book!! Click here to enter!



Dr. Arne Rubinstein is a leading expert on rites of passage and adolescent development. As the founder of the Rites of Passage Institute, Dr. Rubinstein is devoted to creating transformational experiences for teenagers and communities. With over 30 years of experience, including a decade and a half as an emergency medicine doctor, he has a profound understanding of human development and the challenges young people face today. Dr. Rubinstein is also the author of "The Making of Men" and has significantly contributed to the field by working with schools globally and supporting over 500,000 people through his programs.

Key Takeaways:
A rite of passage is a guided process essential for successfully transitioning youth from childhood to adulthood, offering community support and shared wisdom.
Unstructured "rites of passage," such as schoolies, often involve risk and lack meaningful guidance, leading to potentially harmful outcomes.
Structured programs emphasise storytelling, challenge, vision creation, and recognition of unique gifts as critical components, providing a healthier and more profound transition experience.
Both teenagers and their communities, including parents and elders, benefit from engagement in rites of passage, promoting stronger, more supportive relationships.
Rites of passage are not limited to adolescence; they are valuable throughout life for managing transitions like leaving home, marriage, and aging.

Notable Quotes:
"I am convinced that every one of our children is going to go through a rite of passage. The question is, will that be a healthy rite of passage?"
"When we are creating rites of passage for our young people, we need to take into account that every child is different, and every child is born with their own unique gifts and talents."
"Instead of having elders in the community who are actually doing it for the benefit of the young ones, when they're doing it as a way of sort of staying on top of them, that's when it goes wrong."
"One thing, if we could teach girls to listen to their inner voice, that would really be impactful and important for those girls."
"Bringing out their gifts and their spirit. That's what rites of passage are about."

Resources:
Rites of Passage Institute
Dr. Arne Rubinstein's book: The Making of Men
Online Rites of Passage Leadership Training via the Rites of Passage Institute

 

Click here to contact Collett or ask her a question or Click here to contact the Raising Teens team.

Collett is a psychologist, qualified teacher, speaker, and internationally published author, with 25 years' experience working in private and public schools, as well as in private practice.

Visit Raising Teens for more resources, click here for Collett's books, or join the discussion on Facebook.

Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.

<a href="https://hope1032.com.au/win/win-1-of-5-copies-of-the-making-of-men-by-dr-arne-rubinstein/">WIN Dr Arne&rsquo;s book!!&nbsp;Click here to enter!</a> 
Dr. Arne Rubinstein is a leading expert on rites of passage and adolescent development. As the founder of the Rites of Passage Institute, Dr. Rubinstein is devoted to creating transformational experiences for teenagers and communities. With over 30 years of experience, including a decade and a half as an emergency medicine doctor, he has a profound understanding of human development and the challenges young people face today. Dr. Rubinstein is also the author of "The Making of Men" and has significantly contributed to the field by working with schools globally and supporting over 500,000 people through his programs.
Key Takeaways:
<ul>
<li>A rite of passage is a guided process essential for successfully transitioning youth from childhood to adulthood, offering community support and shared wisdom.</li>
<li>Unstructured "rites of passage," such as schoolies, often involve risk and lack meaningful guidance, leading to potentially harmful outcomes.</li>
<li>Structured programs emphasise storytelling, challenge, vision creation, and recognition of unique gifts as critical components, providing a healthier and more profound transition experience.</li>
<li>Both teenagers and their communities, including parents and elders, benefit from engagement in rites of passage, promoting stronger, more supportive relationships.</li>
<li>Rites of passage are not limited to adolescence; they are valuable throughout life for managing transitions like leaving home, marriage, and aging.</li>
</ul>
Notable Quotes:
<ol>
<li>"I am convinced that every one of our children is going to go through a rite of passage. The question is, will that be a healthy rite of passage?"</li>
<li>"When we are creating rites of passage for our young people, we need to take into account that every child is different, and every child is born with their own unique gifts and talents."</li>
<li>"Instead of having elders in the community who are actually doing it for the benefit of the young ones, when they're doing it as a way of sort of staying on top of them, that's when it goes wrong."</li>
<li>"One thing, if we could teach girls to listen to their inner voice, that would really be impactful and important for those girls."</li>
<li>"Bringing out their gifts and their spirit. That's what rites of passage are about."</li>
</ol>
Resources:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://ritesofpassageinstitute.org/">Rites of Passage Institute</a></li>
<li>Dr. Arne Rubinstein's book: <a href="https://ritesofpassageinstitute.org/product/the-making-of-men">The Making of Men</a></li>
<li>Online Rites of Passage Leadership Training via the Rites of Passage Institute</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
Click&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@raisingteenagers.com.au">here</a> to contact Collett or ask her a question or Click <a href="https://hope1032.com.au/show/raising-teens/">here</a> to contact the Raising Teens team.
<hr>
Collett is a psychologist, qualified teacher, speaker, and internationally published author, with 25 years' experience working in private and public schools, as well as in private practice.
Visit <a href="http://raisingteens.au/">Raising Teens</a> for more resources, click <a href="https://collettsmart.com/resources/">here</a> for Collett's books, or join the discussion on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/collettsmart/">Facebook</a>.
Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hopepodcasts.com.au/" aria-label="Link hopepodcasts.com.au">hopepodcasts.com.au</a>. And send the team a message via&nbsp;<a href="https://hope1032.com.au/listen/#apps" aria-label="Link Hope 103.2&rsquo;s app">Hope 103.2&rsquo;s app</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Hope103.2" aria-label="Link Facebook">Facebook</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/sydneyshope1032/" aria-label="Link Instagram">Instagram</a>.

Rites of Passage: Why Boys Need Humbling & Girls Empowerment - Dr. Arne Rubinstein

Key Points:
Encouraging teens to consider counseling should be a gentle process that respects their need for control and privacy.
Parents should emphasise the confidentiality of counseling, reassuring teens that professionals will maintain their privacy while sharing critical concerns.
Involving teens in the decision-making process, such as choosing a counselor, can increase their sense of ownership and reduce resistance.
Building a supportive home environment and maintaining open communication can lay the foundation for teens to feel comfortable seeking external help.
Parents should also seek support for themselves to strengthen their ability to provide effective guidance and emotional stability for their teens.

Notable Quotes:
"A no to counseling doesn't mean a child is rejecting help. It's not a sign that things are hopeless."
"Our teens need to feel part of the choices and part of the decisions."
"Everyone needs to talk to someone from time to time, adults included."
"Focus on your relationship with your teenager first. Feeling safe and respected and heard at home lays such a good foundation."
"Even if your teen isn't ready for counseling, you can still seek support as a parent."

Resources:
Follow Collett Smart on Instagram and Facebook.
Learn more on Collett Smart’s website: www.collettsmart.com

 

Click here to contact Collett or ask her a question or Click here to contact the Raising Teens team.

Collett is a psychologist, qualified teacher, speaker, and internationally published author, with 25 years' experience working in private and public schools, as well as in private practice.

Visit Raising Teens for more resources, click here for Collett's books, or join the discussion on Facebook.

Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.

Key Points:
<ul>
<li>Encouraging teens to consider counseling should be a gentle process that respects their need for control and privacy.</li>
<li>Parents should emphasise the confidentiality of counseling, reassuring teens that professionals will maintain their privacy while sharing critical concerns.</li>
<li>Involving teens in the decision-making process, such as choosing a counselor, can increase their sense of ownership and reduce resistance.</li>
<li>Building a supportive home environment and maintaining open communication can lay the foundation for teens to feel comfortable seeking external help.</li>
<li>Parents should also seek support for themselves to strengthen their ability to provide effective guidance and emotional stability for their teens.</li>
</ul>
Notable Quotes:
<ul>
<li>"A no to counseling doesn't mean a child is rejecting help. It's not a sign that things are hopeless."</li>
<li>"Our teens need to feel part of the choices and part of the decisions."</li>
<li>"Everyone needs to talk to someone from time to time, adults included."</li>
<li>"Focus on your relationship with your teenager first. Feeling safe and respected and heard at home lays such a good foundation."</li>
<li>"Even if your teen isn't ready for counseling, you can still seek support as a parent."</li>
</ul>
Resources:
<ul>
<li>Follow Collett Smart on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/collettsmart/">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/collettsmart/">Facebook</a>.</li>
<li>Learn more on Collett Smart&rsquo;s website: <a href="https://www.collettsmart.com">www.collettsmart.com</a></li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
Click&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@raisingteenagers.com.au">here</a> to contact Collett or ask her a question or Click <a href="https://hope1032.com.au/show/raising-teens/">here</a> to contact the Raising Teens team.
<hr>
Collett is a psychologist, qualified teacher, speaker, and internationally published author, with 25 years' experience working in private and public schools, as well as in private practice.
Visit <a href="http://raisingteens.au/">Raising Teens</a> for more resources, click <a href="https://collettsmart.com/resources/">here</a> for Collett's books, or join the discussion on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/collettsmart/">Facebook</a>.
Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hopepodcasts.com.au/" aria-label="Link hopepodcasts.com.au">hopepodcasts.com.au</a>. And send the team a message via&nbsp;<a href="https://hope1032.com.au/listen/#apps" aria-label="Link Hope 103.2&rsquo;s app">Hope 103.2&rsquo;s app</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Hope103.2" aria-label="Link Facebook">Facebook</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/sydneyshope1032/" aria-label="Link Instagram">Instagram</a>.

Why This Psychologist Had to Hit Pause (And What It Taught Her)

Raising Teens with Collett Smart

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