The Parent Pod

Why is “sorry” so hard for some adults?And what does it mean for kids when repair never comes?In this episode, I unpack what’s really happening when a parent doesn’t apologise, and why the absence of “sorry” can be so much heavier on children than we realise.We explore:why kids notice when repair doesn’t happenhow children often internalise blame when apologies are missingwhat actually helps a child feel safe and validatedYou will feel empowered to trust your instincts, use the right words in hard moments, and support your child’s emotional safety.If this resonated, Raising RAD Kids goes deeper into repair, regulation, and raising kids who feel safe in themselves.https://books.by/rachel-russell

Content note: This episode includes a brief mention of suicide. Please listen with care.What if your child’s behaviour isn’t something to fix — but something to understand?In this episode, I’m joined by Cameron Allen, neuroscience technologist, founder of Neuro Progeny and co-founder of Sensorium Neuro Wellness. Cameron has spent nearly two decades studying how the brain and nervous system shape behaviour, including 11 years working directly with children and adolescents in therapeutic settings.One insight changed everything for him: all behaviour is adaptive.We talk about what that actually means for parents and carers, and why behaviour is best understood as communication from the nervous system rather than defiance, manipulation or poor parenting.In this conversation, we explore:Why behaviour makes sense when you understand the nervous systemWhat kids’ stress responses are really asking forWhy willpower and “trying harder” don’t build resilienceHow stress lives in the body, not just the mindPractical ways to help the nervous system handle stress differentlyCameron shares how simple, real-world practices — alongside tools like heart rate variability biofeedback and virtual reality — can support regulation and resilience without adding more to already full lives.If you’ve ever felt confused, triggered or stuck around your child’s behaviour, this episode offers a grounded, science-based lens that brings clarity, compassion and a clear way forward.To learn more about Cameron’s work, programs and neuroscience-based tools, you can find him at:https://www.immersive.neuroprogeny.com/You can also follow Cameron on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/neuro_cameron/If this episode helped, share it with another parent who needs a calmer, clearer lens on behaviour.Stay rad

Do you ever feel triggered by your kids and then feel ashamed about how you reacted? You’re not alone.In this episode, parenting educator and author Rachel Russell explores why parenting can feel so triggering, what’s actually happening in your nervous system, and how exhaustion, old patterns and constant demands play a role.You’ll learn how to recognise triggers without shame, understand why small moments create big reactions, and walk away with practical tools you can use today to regulate yourself and repair after tough moments.This episode is for parents who want to stop yelling, feel calmer, and build stronger, safer relationships with their kids.To purchase Raising R.A.D. Kids or to leave a review, please head over to:https://books.by/rachel-russellhttps://bit.ly/RaisingRADKidshttps://inhousebookstore.com.au/collections/new-releases/products/raising-rad-kids

In this episode, we explore what emotional readiness for school really looks like and why it’s built over time, not rushed or forced. We talk about co-regulation, interdependence, waiting and turn-taking, boundaries, and separation, with practical, long-term ways parents can support their children’s nervous systems before and after school begins.This is a gentle, realistic conversation for anyone supporting a child to feel safe enough to step into school, and to keep growing once they’re there.To purchase a copy of Raising R.A.D. Kids, head to: https://books.by/rachel-russellStay rad

Starting school is a significant milestone! There is so muchto learn! And it brings big emotions for both kids and parents.  In this episode, Rachel talks about (from a teacher's perspective) the real challenges of beginning school and what children truly need to feel able and confident during those first few weeks. This episode is for parents who want to help their child feelprepared and confident without the pressure to get everything right. You will finish the episode with a calm and realistic perspective on how to support children as they transition into school life.Stay rad

Oxytocin is the kingpin of brain chemistry and hormones.It helps dial down stress, reduces feelings of anxiety and overwhelm, and creates the internal conditions for calm, safety, and regulation. When oxytocin is flowing, it becomes the gateway to deeper connection, love, and a sense of belonging.In this episode, Rachel explores what oxytocin actually is, why it matters so much for emotional regulation and connection, how parents can intentionally cultivate it at home, and how we can empower children to activate their own oxytocin — even when connection with others isn’t immediately available.If you’d like to go deeper into the neuroscience of regulation, autonomy, and daring, Raising R.A.D. Kids is available here:https://amzn.asia/d/52r3PxJ Stay rad.

If your kids seem to be falling apart after Christmas, with more meltdowns, more tears, and bigger reactions, you are not imagining it, and you are not doing anything wrong.In this episode, I talk about why kids often struggle once the Christmas build-up is over. Using a nervous system lens, I explain what is really going on underneath post-Christmas meltdowns, why behaviour can worsen when things slow down, and why emotional release is a sign of safety, not failure.This episode is for parents who expected things to feel easier after Christmas and are instead feeling confused, tired, or questioning themselves. We look at what kids’ nervous systems have been holding, why it all comes out now, and how connection and co-regulation help children settle again.If the days after Christmas feel harder than you expected, this one is for you.Stay rad

In this heartfelt episode, I chat with Leila Kubesch, an award-winning educator, researcher, and founder of Parents 2 Partners, about what it truly takes to blend families with care, compassion, and connection.Leila shares stories from her decades of experience supporting parents across cultures, and offers powerful insights into how we can raise emotionally secure kids—no matter what our family structure looks like.We talk about:💛 How to blend families while honoring each child’s emotional reality🏡 Why a sense of belonging must come before behavior correction🧠 Replacing shame-based habits with connection-based strategies🛠️ Practical tools from classrooms and real homes that truly workWhether you're navigating a new family dynamic or simply seeking to parent with more intention, this episode is filled with wisdom, warmth, and aha moments.https://www.parents2partners.org/

In this inspiring episode of The Parent Pod, Rachel is joined by best-selling author, speaker, and content photographer Coral Emerson. Coral shares her journey of being diagnosed with ADHD later in life, living with a neurological condition, and rising above life’s challenges to create a life of purpose, creativity, and joy.Drawing from her book Open the Door to a New You, Coral offers heartfelt insights into resilience, self-acceptance, and finding strength in adversity. Her story is a powerful reminder for parents—and anyone navigating hard times—that hope and transformation are always possible.AmazonAUS: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0B4HTXP5DPaperbackAmazonAUS: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/0645504505Facebook: Coral Emerson @coralemersonauthorhttps://www.facebook.com/coralemersonauthorInstagram: Coral Emerson @coral.emersonhttps://www.instagram.com/coral.emerson/Website: https://www.coralemerson.com.au

In this episode of The Parent Pod, I’m joined by Leisa Robertson, whose journey is as honest as it is powerful. Together, we explore what it really means to let goof expectations—of ourselves, our children, and the parenting playbook we thought we were supposed to follow.This conversation dives deep into the messy, meaningful moments that shape us—not just as parents, but as people. From questioning “the usual way” to navigatingneurodivergence and identity, this is a story about courage, connection, and rewriting the rules in a way that actually works.Leisa speaks from the heart and her wisdom will not only inspire but help.

In today’s episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Kerry Morrison—an Aboriginal social worker, coach, parent, and founder of Empowerment2Be, based on Noongar Boodja in WA’s South West. With over 15 years’ experience across disability, education and trauma recovery, Kerry brings a deeply grounded, culturally safe, and strengths-based approach to her work with families of neurodivergent and disabled children.Through NDIS-funded services, therapy-informed coaching, and practical, real-world strategies, Kerry helps families feel seen, supported, and equipped. She also hosts free Walk and Talk sessions in the community—because when parents and carers feel connected, kids are better able to thrive.In this episode, we explore:Kerry’s story and what led her to create Empowerment2BeHow to recognise and celebrate your child’s unique gifts—even if they don’t fit the mainstream mouldWhat to hold onto when your child doesn’t fit into traditional systemsThe kinds of supports and alternative pathways that are available to familiesPractical strategies to build identity, confidence and emotional safety at homeWhy parents don’t need to have all the answers—and how to guide instead of “fix”Ways to explore future possibilities with your child without overwhelmWhether your child is neurodivergent, disabled, or just forging their own path, this conversation is full of insight, honesty, and hope. Empowerment2BeFollow Kerry’s work and find out more about her Walk and Talk sessions at empowerment2be.comStay rad

In this episode of The Parent Pod, Rachel is joined by public speaker, educator, clinical hypnotherapist, and life coach Dani Hewton. With over 25 years of experience, Dani specialises in stress and pain reduction using a unique blend of science, psychology, energy healing, and holistic tools.Dani shares her powerful personal journey of transformation—from chronic pain and financial hardship to a life of wellbeing and abundance—and how this inspired the creation of Next Gen Wellness. Together, they explore the rising rates of anxiety in tweens and teens, what it actually looks like, and how biological wiring during these years affects the way young people experience stress.This conversation dives into what parents can do when nothing seems to help, why autonomy is such a powerful protective factor, and how to nurture it in ways that still feel safe and connected. Dani’s insights are grounded, practical, and full of hope for families navigating the complex emotional world of adolescence.Parent Podders can download Dani’s Great Sleep Guide and access to sleep better hypnotherapy recording for free here https://forms.gle/nitHEV65Pxn9g8iDAwww.nextgen-wellness.com.au <http://www.nextgen-wellness.com.au>https://www.facebook.com/nextgenwellnessauhttps://www.instagram.com/danihewton/

In this episode of The Parent Pod, Rachel is joined by energy healer, coach, and Reiki Master Janene Shanahan for a powerful conversation about the unseen forces that shape our parenting and family life. With training in NLP, Timeline Techniques, and Hypnosis, Janene brings a deep, holistic perspective to the way we relate, regulate, and connect with our children.Together, they explore Janene’s unique journey into energy work and what drew her to this healing path. For those unfamiliar with concepts like energy, frequency, and vibration in family life, Janene offers clear, grounded explanations that make these ideas both accessible and practical. She shares insights into how energy healing can support both parents and children—especially when they're feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, or out of sync.The conversation delves into the power of unconscious patterns, and how understanding and shifting our own internal responses can transform the way we show up as parents. Janene also offers practical ways to clear energy after challenging moments, and reframes self-regulation as an energetic act of love—something we gift our children every time we tend to our own wellbeing.This episode is a beautiful blend of science, intuition, and deep care for the emotional world of families. Whether you're curious about energy work or simply seeking new ways to connect and regulate, you’ll find plenty of insight and inspiration here.Contact for Janene:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064937445382

In this episode of The Parent Pod, Rachel chats with naturopath and nutritionist Jacqueline Stenhouse from The Healthy Alternative. With a calm, grounded approach and a passion for practical wellness, Jacqueline shares simple, doable ways families can support their health through food, daily habits, and a low-tox lifestyle.We explore:What “clean eating” really means for busy parentsEasy routines that bring calm and nourishment to your homeGo-to meals and prep tips for healthy family eatingSmall but powerful changes beyond the kitchen—like sleep and screen-time habitsEncouragement for parents feeling stuck or overwhelmedWhether you're starting fresh or looking to fine-tune your family's wellbeing, this episode offers inspiration and doable steps for a healthier home.

In this powerful episode, Rachel sits down with Mitch Tambo – singer, songwriter, author, and one of Australia’s most distinctive First Nations entertainers – to explore fatherhood, culture, creativity, and healing.Hailed as “the new voice of a generation,” Mitch has earned 14 consecutive Top 10 singles on the Australian iTunes Worldwide chart and performed at major national events including the Australian Open, T20, NRL Indigenous All Stars, and Fire Fight Australia. In 2024, he topped the charts with The Best and his album Tambo Jamz Vol. 1, and in 2025, he was celebrated for his stunning duet and solo versions of My Island Home.Now a father in a blended family, Mitch brings everything he’s learned—and continues to learn—into his role as a parent, artist, and advocate. Together, we explore:How fatherhood has deepened Mitch’s sense of purpose and legacyThe power of culture, language, and storytelling to shape identityWhy intergenerational healing matters more than everWhat drives Mitch forward in his creative and personal journeyHis message for parents raising children in today’s worldThis episode is a heartfelt reminder of the strength in sharing stories, embracing identity, and leading with spirit.

In this episode of The Parent Pod, Rachel is joinedby Professor Narelle Lemon—internationally recognised researcher, educator, and coach—who invites us to rethink self-care as the foundation for wellbeing in all aspects of life.As Lead of the Wellbeing and Education Research Community at Edith Cowan University and Director of Explore & Create Co, Narelle brings a rich blend of experience from education, the arts, leadership, and positive psychology. She shares how self-care can be a daily, intentional practice thatgrounds us—even amid parenting chaos.With mountain biking, mindful rituals, and a green tea inhand, Narelle walks her talk—offering a grounded, inspiring look at how we can all flourish a little more, one moment at a time. Find Narelle: www.exploreandcreateco.comwww.shespeakswellbeing.comwww.wellbeingcitizenscientist.comAs @rellypops on Instagram

In this soulful episode of The Parent Pod, we’re joined by holistic psychologist and consciousness mentor Daniella Princi. Daniella shares her powerful journey from traditional psychology to a more integrated, spiritual approach—blending evidence-based science with somatic wisdom, energy work, and ritual.Together, we explore how mothers can reconnect with their inner truth, navigate the tension between purpose and parenting without guilt, and rediscover who they are beyond the roles they play. Daniella offers gentle, practical strategies for self-care, aligning with your values, and beginning the journey back to yourself—because when mums heal and grow, families do too.

Strap in, friends — this one’s real, raw, and full of heart!Bec Shepherd joins us today to share her powerful story of parenting three children — including a foster daughter, a daughter with ASD and ADHD, and a son with Down syndrome.With humour, grit, and so much strength, Bec opens up about:Life as a mum navigating multiple diagnosesThe rollercoaster of receiving and processing earlydiagnosesLessons in advocacy, self-education, and working with theNDISHow she stays grounded and looks after herselfThe joy, chaos, and deep connection found in parentingdifferently-wired kidsIf you’re parenting outside the box or just want a betterunderstanding of life with disability, this one’s for you.Stay rad

Today on The Parent Pod, we're joined by the inspiring Tara Swann.Tara is an Emotional Empowerment Coach, author, and proud mama of three. In 2023, she released three powerful books, each focused on helping individuals break free from fear and self-doubt, step into their true power, and lead from their higher self.Her work is deeply rooted in her personal journey—overcoming chronic anxiety through emotional release and self-discovery. Now, she’s on a mission to help others do the same.You can connect with Tara on Instagram @itstaraswann, visit her website at taraswann.com, or explore her upcoming group program for women at taraswann.com/hometoher.

In this episode, Rachel takes a dive into the real reasons behind tantrums—from what's happening in a child’s brain and nervous system to the powerful role of emotions like shame and embarrassment. Grounded in psychology and neuroscience, Rachel explores why kids lose it and how parents can respond with calm, connection, and confidence. Learn practical, research-backed strategies to support emotional regulation and reduce meltdowns—without shame or punishment.Resources Dr. Dan Siegel, The Whole-Brain ChildDr. Bruce Perry, What Happened to You?Mona Delahooke, Brain-Body ParentingIf you are interested in reaching out to Rachel for Emotion Coaching: https://linktr.ee/quitefranklycoaching#coregulation #parenting #brain #neuroscience #love #connection