“I’m fine.” “Nothing.” “It’s all good.” If those are the only answers you’re getting from your teen, this episode is for you. Brandon Jones draws on his own parenting journey with a 13-year-old and an 11-year-old to talk about why teens shut down and why their silence doesn’t mean they have nothing to say. He explains why today’s young people expect mutual respect, and he admits the times his own approach was part of the problem. Then he shares three strategies to build a stronger emotional connection: create opportunities instead of interrogations, stop assuming they want you to fix everything, and validate before you correct. There’s also one simple question you can ask: “Do you want me to just listen, or do you want my help?” #ItsNotYourFault #TeenMentalHealth #ParentingTeens #EmotionalConnection #RaisingTeens #MentalHealthMatters #ParentingTips #YouthMentalHealth #BrandonJones #ShelettaMakesMeLaugh
13 Oct 2026
Build the Village: Turning Data Into Everyday Protection - Episode 4
The latest CDC Youth Risk Behavior Survey shows youth mental health has improved, but only slightly. Brandon Jones closes out his four-part series by digging into why: more resources, less stigma, and young people openly talking about depression and anxiety like never before. He also looks at how AI is becoming a source of comfort and connection for teens and adults alike. Then he shares his core idea: teen well-being doesn’t come from one perfect parent; it grows through pathways and networks of connected adults. Brandon gives four questions to ask the young people around you, plus practical ways parents, caregivers and youth workers can help them make healthier, safer choices.
6 Oct 2026
Ask, Listen, Stay: Responding to Teen Distress - Episode 3
The headlines say teen mental health is improving, but is it? In part three of his four part series, Brandon Jones digs into the CDC's latest Youth Risk Behavior Survey findings. The data shows real progress, but persistent sadness among teens hasn't moved, and ninth graders are struggling most. Brandon explains what that could mean for kids who spent their elementary years in the pandemic. He gives parents, caregivers, and youth workers three simple ways to open the door: name what you notice, express care, and invite honesty. You don't need perfect words. You need to notice, ask, listen, stay, and connect. If you or a young person in your life is struggling, call or text 988 anytime. #ItsNotYourFault #BrandonJones #TeenMentalHealth #Parenting #YouthMentalHealth #988 #ShelettaMakesMeLaugh
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Spotify
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 20 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
28
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
32
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Questions about It’s Not Your Fault
Who hosts It’s Not Your Fault?
Brandon Jones host the show. Published by Sheletta Makes Me Laugh.
How often do new episodes come out?
The show publishes weekly, based on its RSS feed.
Does It’s Not Your Fault take guests?
The show does not typically feature guests, based on episode analyses.
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