Episode Subtitle: “Emotions, TED Talks & Teddies: Louise Mansell’s Mission to Build Brave Kids”   In this episode of Building Resilient Kids, host Tim Curtis is joined by Dr Louise Mansell, a clinical psychologist and founder of Tedology. Originally from the UK and now based in Perth, Louise brings a wealth of experience working with vulnerable children in care systems and mainstream settings. Louise shares insights into her personal upbringing, how her mother’s anxiety shaped her sense of responsibility and empathy, and what inspired her journey into psychology. She discusses the need for a whole-system approach to child development, the importance of working with schools and families, and how trauma-informed, compassionate care can change the course of a young life. The heart of the episode is Louise’s innovative creation: TED (Teddy for Emotional Development) – a science-based, sensory teddy bear that helps children regulate emotions, build resilience, and develop emotional literacy through play. From weighted limbs and textured paws to guided voice prompts based on proven psychological tools like CBT and DDP, TED is a cuddly co-regulator for kids. Louise reflects on parenting, teaching, and the daily challenge of applying psychology at home, candidly admitting her own occasional “screen bans” as a mother. Her honesty and evidence-based practice make this a must-listen for educators, parents, and anyone committed to raising emotionally resilient kids.   Highlights Louise’s early family life and how helping her mum manage anxiety set the foundations for her career Her work in the UK’s social enterprise sector, supporting children in the care system The biopsychosocial ecological model simplified for everyday parenting and teaching The development of TED: a sensory, talking teddy designed to build emotional skills and resilience Why kids need to feel seen, heard, and held in mind—and how a teddy bear can help Practical strategies for teachers to emotionally coach children without needing all the answers The power of emotional literacy and expression as central to long-term resilience The science behind TED’s features (fidget-friendly paws, crinkle ears, soothing voice prompts) Louise’s commitment to play-based learning and co-design with children Honest parenting moments: “If I shout about screen bans, it doesn’t count.”   Learn More Dr Louise Mansell's work:https://www.minimindshealth.com.au/louise-mansell Tedology (TED - Teddy for Emotional Development):https://tedology.com.au The ACEs Study (Adverse Childhood Experiences) – CDC Resource Tina Payne Bryson’s "Whole Brain Child" approach (Refer to books by Siegel & Bryson) Theraplay & DDP (Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy) – therapeutic models that Louise references as cornerstones in her clinical approach. https://ddpnetwork.org Quote of the Episode “Resilience isn’t about just coping. It’s about being brave enough to express yourself—and knowing someone will listen.” – Dr Louise Mansell  

Joy, Diagnosis and the Village: Annie Hicks on Building Resilience in Kids with Disabilities In this deeply personal episode of Building Resilient Kids, host Tim Curtis speaks with his amazing cousin, Annie Hicks—a dedicated mother of three and a fundraising professional in the education sector—about what it means to raise resilient children, including two living with disabilities: Calvin (Sotos Syndrome and ADHD) and Lily (Down Syndrome). Annie opens up about the surprises and challenges of receiving a diagnosis, the evolving needs of her children, and how she and her husband Michael have navigated parenthood with intentionality, balance, and love. With candour and warmth, Annie discusses the power of community, the importance of self-care, and the need to be selectively selfish to model resilience for her kids. From managing emotional regulation through sensory tools, companion animals, and trampoline resets, to redesigning family expectations and slowing down to meet her children where they’re at, Annie offers practical wisdom for parents, carers, and educators alike. Also in this episode: The concept of wellbeing hubs and navigators in schools Parenting withopen communication and emotional availability The transformative role ofcanine and equine therapy Her superhero alter ego,‘Modulux’, imagined with the help of ChatGPT Insights from the blended family experience with Layla, her stepdaughter The critical role ofpositive self-talk and modelling resilience Annie’s heartfelt stories and honest reflections will resonate with anyone striving to raise strong, self-aware, and joyful kids; regardless of ability.   Resources & Further Reading: Annie Hicks on LinkedIn:com/in/anne-marie-hicks-8b55a284 Sotos Syndrome(Medline Plus): https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/sotos-syndrome/ Down Syndrome Overview(Wikipedia): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Down_syndrome Carly Findlay – Author and Disability Advocate:https://carlyfindlay.com.au/ The Book:Growing Up Disabled in Australia, edited by Carly Findlay Hannah Diviney – Writer, Speaker & Advocate:https://hannahdiviney.com/ Guide Dogs WA – Companion Dog Program:https://www.guidedogswa.com.au/ Amaroo Equine Therapy (Belinda Muiser):https://www.amarooequine.com.au

Episode Sub-title: Breathe, Climb, Adapt: Marty Doolan on Nature’s Role in Raising Strong Kids Episode Show Notes In this episode of the Building Resilient Kids podcast, host Tim Curtis speaks with Marty Doolan — a NSW Fire and Rescue firefighter, outdoor educator, father of two, and lifelong adventurer. Marty shares reflections from years spent guiding young people in the wild and responding to emergencies on the front line. His insights draw from two high-stakes domains — firefighting and outdoor education — and reveal what these worlds can teach us about how kids build emotional strength, courage, and problem-solving skills. This is a wide-ranging conversation on nature, parenting, discomfort, and self-regulation — with practical wisdom for parents, teachers, and coaches helping kids find their inner footing. Key Themes and Takeaways Growing up in the bush and how early immersion in nature shaped Marty’s identity and career Why outdoor education is less about physical strength and more about mindset, courage, and emotion The link between perceived risk, real growth, and meaningful challenge in controlled environments What firefighting taught Marty about pressure, calmness, and presence under stress Regulating emotions through breath, routine, and team support How parents can let kids struggle safely without rescuing them too quickly The importance of modelling vulnerability, reflection, and honest emotion Peer influence in outdoor programs: how leadership, encouragement, and language shape group dynamics Making space for curiosity, play, and growth without expectation or pressure More About Marty Marty Doolan is a full-time firefighter with NSW Fire and Rescue, and a part-time outdoor educator. He spent years guiding in the Blue Mountains and taught outdoor leadership to young adults before transitioning into emergency services. Now a father of two young children, Marty continues to apply his knowledge of risk, resilience, and human performance to both professional and family life. He brings an open, self-aware, and experience-driven perspective to the conversation around how kids grow stronger through challenge. Resources NSW Fire and Rescuehttps://www.fire.nsw.gov.au Outward Bound Australia (example of programs similar to those discussed)https://www.outwardbound.org.au The Resilience Shield – Model referenced throughout the episodehttps://resilienceshield.com Nature Play Australia – Encouraging unstructured outdoor playhttps://www.natureplay.org.au Project Rockit – Building peer support and leadership in youthhttps://www.projectrockit.com.au Breathwork Australia – Understanding breath as a regulation toolhttps://www.breathworkaustralia.com.au

Episode Sub-title: “Effort Over Results: Rick Pedley-Smith on Mentoring Boys and Building Self-Respect” Episode Show Notes: In this energising and deeply personal episode of the Building Resilient Kids podcast, host Tim Curtis speaks with Rick Pedley-Smith, physical education teacher, father of two boys, and co-creator of the pioneering Rite of Passage Program at a Western Sydney School. Rick shares his journey from martial arts and running to almost three decades of teaching, and why he and his wife model “effort over results” as a family philosophy. He explains how the Rite of Passage Program came about, the lessons learned from mentoring disengaged boys, and why self-respect is a far better goal than self-esteem. Rick also reflects on the importance of role models outside the family, the dangers of social media, and why controlled adversity — from running and poetry performance to abseiling and 24-hour hikes — is crucial for building resilience in young men. In a special moment at the end of the episode, Rick’s own sons join the conversation to share what resilience means to them in their own words, bringing the episode’s message full circle. Key Themes & Takeaways: Why “effort over results” is a guiding principle for Rick’s family and his students How the Rite of Passage Program creates controlled adversity to help boys develop self-respect and confidence The role of mentors outside the family and their impact on reducing risk factors How physical, emotional, and cognitive stressors work together to develop resilience Why self-respect buffers boys from comparison and social-media pressures better than self-esteem Real-world examples of boys transforming through the program — from poetry performances to canyoning Rick’s own vulnerability and role modelling: “If I’m not willing to do it, why should they?” A heartfelt reflection from Rick’s sons on what resilience means to them More About Rick: Rick Pedley-Smith is a long-time physical education teacher based in northwest Sydney, an avid runner and jiu-jitsu enthusiast, and father of two boys. Together with Wade Fairclough and other educators, he co-founded the Rite of Passage Program, an initiative that supports disengaged male students by blending physical challenges, mentoring, and emotional learning to help them discover their values, virtues, and self-respect. Resources: Rick Pedley-Smith on LinkedIn– Learn more about Rick’s background and work Teacher Magazine: Mentoring Disengaged Male Students– Article featuring Rick’s program Education HQ: Rite of Passage Program– Coverage of the program Rick co-created Parkrun Australia– Free community-based 5km runs mentioned in the episode Resilience Shield– The resilience model underpinning Tim’s conversations with Rick “If” by Rudyard Kipling– The poem used in the program to teach values and virtues “The Laughing Heart” by Charles Bukowski– Another poem embraced by boys in the program Big Brother Big Sister Australia– Mentoring programs for youth, complementing the ideas Rick discusses Steve Willis (“Commando Steve”)– The role model referenced by Rick in the program  

Episode Sub-title: Weathering the Seasons: Charlie Cay on Grit, Gratitude, and Growing Strong Kids   In this episode, host Tim Curtis talks with Charlie Cay, farmer, father, and proud steward of both land and legacy. Charlie shares the highs and heartbreaks of family life on the land — from the harsh realities of drought and flood to the quiet wins of raising resilient, well-rounded kids in a remote rural part of Australia. With humour and honesty, Charlie reflects on the lessons learned from nature, work, and family, and how they’ve shaped his approach to parenting, leadership, and inner strength. This episode is a reminder that resilience is forged in rhythm — through seasons of hardship, community connection, and the day-to-day work of showing up for those we love. Key Themes & Takeaways: Growing up on a remote station and choosing to return to the land with a young family Teaching kids resilience through work, responsibility, and being part of something bigger than themselves Lessons from hardship: droughts, floods, and what they teach about emotional endurance and adaptability The importance of letting kids struggle — and why challenge builds character Charlie’s reflections on gratitude, storytelling, and holding on to perspective when things get hard Why creating space for connection — around the fire, in the ute, or over breakfast — builds strong family foundations The link between nature, patience, and identity, and how it influences the way his family grows together   Learn more at: resilienceshield.com/kids   Resources: RFDS Outback Mental Health – Mental health and resilience support for remote Australians Rural Aid – Support services for farmers and their families: www.countrykids.ruralaid.org.au Bush Kids – Free early intervention health services for children in rural Queensland: www.bushkids.org.au The Resilience Shield – The resilience model referenced in the episode ABC’s “Back Roads” Series – Stories of Australian rural communities (for context and inspiration) Boys to the Bush: https://boystothebush.org.au      

Episode Sub-title: “How our kids can perform better from the Beam to the Boardroom" In this episode of the Building Resilient Kids podcast, Tim Curtis speaks with Rachel Vickery, former international gymnast turned high-performance consultant to elite athletes, special forces units, and corporate leaders across the globe. Rachel brings her deep experience from gymnastics and years working behind the scenes with Olympic teams, the NBA, Premier League, World Rugby, and even Australia’s special operations, to share insights into how we can raise emotionally and physiologically resilient kids. This is a deep dive into the mechanics of pressure, breath, mindset, and how adults, whether parents, educators, or coaches, can build safe, supportive environments for kids to thrive in.   Key Themes & Takeaways: The critical role of breath mechanics in identifying and managing stress in children How stress manifests differently in boys vs girls, and how to spot the signs of overload Why nasal breathing, posture, and even mouth shape matter for long-term health and performance The downside of early sports specialisation—and the upside of “white space” and unstructured time Coaching under pressure: how language, cues, and framing can build (or break) resilience The physiology of fear and how to reframe high-stakes moments with kids What elite athletes and elite kids have in common: identity, allostatic load, and emotional regulation The magic of teaching children curiosity over outcome—and how that shift boosts both confidence and performance   Learn more at: resilienceshield.com/kids   Resources & Further Reading Rachel Vickery Official Website: https://rachelvickery.comRachel’s work in breathing, pressure performance, and resilience consulting. The Unforgiving60 Podcast: Rachel Vickery” Where Rachel first joined Ben and Tim to explore high-performance and personal evolution. “Growing Up in Lycra” – Seminar Series.  An exploration of the physiological and emotional challenges of early elite sport environments (referenced in the podcast). Breath Mechanics Resources: Buteyko Institute – Education on functional breathing techniques James Nestor – “Breath” – Bestselling book on the science of breathing Understanding Allostatic Load Harvard Health: The toll of chronic stress ScienceDirect: Allostatic load and stress physiology Youth Sport & Long-Term Development Models Australian Sports Commission – Physical Literacy Framework NSCA Long-Term Athletic Development Position Statement  

Episode Sub Title: “Persistence, Parenting & Purpose: Rob Redenbach on Raising Resilient Kids”   In this reflective and moving conversation, host Tim Curtis sits down with keynote speaker, author, and resilience educator Rob Redenbach. Rob shares stories from his rich and diverse background—from martial arts and military security to fatherhood and now grandfatherhood—and how those experiences shaped the way he raised his three children, all now thriving young adults. With humour, humility and insight, Rob explores what it really means to earn a child’s respect, why persistence is the most powerful parenting tool he knows, and the value of slowing down to savour the “magic” in everyday moments. He also reflects on generational change, lessons from failure, and how even our weaknesses can become gifts to our kids. Key themes and takeaways: The power of persistence as a foundational tool for building resilience Parenting three very different children—tailoring your response to each How failure and setback build deeper strength Emotional moments and reflections from his daughter’s recent wedding The role of reading, exercise and structure in offsetting screen time and distraction Grandparenting: showing up slower, softer, and full of love The value of attention to detail and why basics matter in resilience “If it matters to them, it should matter to you”—Rob’s golden rule for parents Encouragement for caregivers to persist, even in uncertainty or doubt 👉 Learn more at: resilienceshield.com/kids (Even) More About Rob Rob Redenbach has delivered resilience and communication training in more than 20 countries and worked with everyone from corporate leaders to Nelson Mandela’s protection team. With a background that spans martial arts, private security, and law, Rob now mentors others in public speaking and adaptability—and has earned the title “professional student of life.” Find out more about Rob’s work at redenbach.com. Resources: Rob Redenbach’s Website– Keynotes, workshops, and books About Time (Film)– The film Rob references on time, gratitude, and living deliberately Resilience Shield Model– The six-layer framework underpinning Rob and Tim’s conversation Angela Duckworth’s Grit– Insights on perseverance and passion Carol Dweck’s Growth Mindset– Research into how beliefs about ability shape motivation Marcus Aurelius Quotes– Stoic wisdom Rob draws on, including “Death stands at your elbow” Anterior Mid-Cingulate Cortex– Neuroscience behind persistence and willpower Building Resilient Kids Book– Co-written by host Tim Curtis  

Episode Sub Title: “The Undercurrent: Steph Pinto’s Superpower for Building Resilient, Emotionally Strong Kids”   In this thoughtful and practical episode, host Tim Curtis speaks with Steph Pinto, emotional intelligence expert, mum of two, and champion for raising emotionally strong and self-aware kids. Steph opens up about her own journey with anxiety, what she’s learned as a parent in a neurodiverse household (ADHD in the mix), and how emotional intelligence can help kids and adults alike manage big feelings, build resilience, and strengthen relationships. Key themes and takeaways: How Steph’s childhood and anxiety experiences shaped her passion for emotional intelligence Why emotional self-awareness and regulation are at the heart of resilience The power of modelling — what parents do matters more than what they say Parenting neurodiverse kids with patience, curiosity, and empathy Letting go of “resilience as stoicism” and embracing vulnerability Why co-regulation, presence, and small actions (like breathing or EFT tapping) make a difference Practical tools: seeing the iceberg beneath behaviours, using “get curious not furious” This episode is a powerful reminder that resilience grows through connection, self-compassion, and emotional honesty. 👉 Learn more at: resilienceshield.com/kids   (Even) More About Steph: Steph Pinto is an emotional intelligence coach, accredited anxiety therapist for kids and teens (Cool Kids program), and an advocate for building emotionally healthy families. She draws from personal experience as a parent of a neurodiverse child, as well as professional expertise in emotional regulation and resilience tools.   Resources: Cool Kids Program – Macquarie University— Evidence-based anxiety program for children and teens Peter Stapleton – The Science of Tapping— Leading researcher on EFT tapping and its benefits for anxiety, stress, and emotional regulation Tapping Solution (general EFT info)— Resource hub on how to get started with EFT Raising Children Network – Emotional Intelligence— Trusted Australian parenting resource on building emotional intelligence ADDitude Magazine – Parenting ADHD— Articles and tools for parents raising kids with ADHD org— A resource for supporting neurodivergent children (ADHD, learning differences) The Stoic Parent (Modern Stoicism)— Articles on resilience, authenticity, and emotional strength in parenting    

Episode Sub Title: ““STEM Mum, Big Heart: Jaz Diab’s Lessons in Resilience” In this inspiring and open-hearted episode, host Tim Curtis speaks with Jasmin (Jaz) Diab, nuclear scientist, STEM nerd (self confessed!), and mum of a remarkable five-year-old with achondroplasia, Zoe and little baby boy Remy. Jaz shares her experiences parenting a child with achondroplasia (a form of dwarfism), the lessons she’s learned about resilience, and how curiosity, honesty, and community have helped her navigate challenges.   Key themes and takeaways: How Jaz uses curiosity and science to advocate for Zoe and break down barriers The importance of building community, both locally and through the short-statured network Jaz’s parenting style: honest, open communication and letting go of perfection Helping kids develop self-awareness, confidence, and problem-solving skills Why self-kindness and reframing have been crucial for Jaz’s own resilience as a parent The power of role-modelling language, patience, and co-regulation in tough moments This episode shines a light on embracing difference, building strong villages around kids, and supporting them to thrive on their own terms. 👉 Learn more at: resilienceshield.com/kids (Even) More About Jaz:  Jasmin draws upon 22 years of service as an Australian Army engineer officer with a focus on security and safety in high risk environments. Jasmin is a nuclear engineer with an extensive knowledge and experience in the Australian nuclear and national security landscape and loves a good complex challenge   Resources: Women in Nuclear (WiN) Australia — A network supporting women in nuclear science and technology; Jasmin is likely engaged with groups like this. Special Operations Engineer Regiment (SOER) — Australian Army’s dedicated combat engineer unit supporting Special Operations Command. Little People of Australia — National support network for people of short stature and their families. Growing Stronger: Achondroplasia Resource (Johns Hopkins Medicine) — Detailed medical overview of achondroplasia. Short Statured People of Australia Facebook Group — Community space (private group; request to join). Welcome to Holland – by Emily Perl Kingsley — Full text of the poem.    

Episode Sub Title: "Perfectionism, Parenting & Lollipops: Susannah Kindred’s Guide to Being Good Enough" In this heartfelt and insightful conversation, host Tim Curtis welcomes Susannah Kindred, clinical psychologist, performance coach, and mum of three, to the Building Resilient Kids podcast. Together, they explore what it really looks like to juggle professional expertise and the raw realities of parenting — and how being a psychologist doesn’t mean you have all the answers at home! Key themes and takeaways: Susannah’s life as a clinical psychologist, mindset coach, and mum to a 6.5, 3.5, and 1.5-year-old — and why she describes parenting as “a dance” rather than perfect harmony. The challenges of perfectionism in kids, and how to gently support children to try, fail, and build resilience (including a touching story of tennis, tears, and a well-timed lollipop).  Why “good enough parenting” beats striving for perfection — inspired by research on healthy attachment and resilience. Susannah’s reflections on temperament, personality, and how to nurture resilience whether kids are introverted, extroverted, or somewhere in between. The balancing act of rewards and motivation: when a lollipop is okay, and where to draw the line. This episode is filled with practical, real-world insights on parenting with compassion, curiosity, and courage — without needing to wear a “psychology hat” at all times. 👉 Learn more about Susannah and her work at: kindredthriving.com   (Even) More About Susannah: Susannah Kindred is a performance and mindset coach, trained clinical psychologist, and founder of KINDRED Thriving. She helps leaders, professionals, parents, elite athletes, and performing artists develop the mental and emotional skills to navigate challenges and excel with courage, curiosity, and compassion. In her private practice, she has supported countless adolescents and parents, and as a mum of three young kids, she’s passionate about equipping people with the tools to navigate life with resilience and purpose.   Resources: Susannah's website: https://kindredthriving.com/ About Wise Mind on DBT: https://dbtselfhelp.com/wise-mind/ On 'Good Enough Parenting': D.W. Winnicott introduced the concept of "good enough parenting," suggesting that parents don't need to be perfect to raise healthy, well-adjusted children. Instead, they should aim to be "good enough," meaning they adequately meet their child's basic physical and emotional needs, providing a secure base for development while also allowing for age-appropriate independence and frustration tolerance.  

In this introductory episode of the Building Resilient Kids podcast, host Tim Curtis shares the motivation behind launching the podcast and outlines what listeners can expect from the series. It will provide you the 'Who', 'What' and 'Why'. Tim is a co-author of the bestselling book The Resilience Shield and author of Building Resilient Kids. He gives the context for his passion on resilience which was initially shaped by his military experiences; his being a resilience nerd.... and his accompanying deep interest in human growth and performance through adversity. Key themes covered: Why resilience matters for kids  The vital role of parents, carers, educators, coaches, and the wider community in fostering resilience An introduction to the Resilience Shield model and its applicability to building resilient kids: BRK POD- SERIES PREVIEW: You will meet the experts behind Tim's interviews in the book Building Resilient Kids; discovering not only their professional insights but also find out a bit about them on a deeply personal level including their personal strategies (and even their “resilience superpowers”).   References: www.resilienceshield.com   Buy the Book 'Building Resilient Kids': Click here