Uncharted Parenting

Season 2 is here 🎙️✨
Uncharted Parenting is back!From tricky topics to real-life parenting moments, we’re going there… together.
New episodes. Same honest conversations. Streaming on all your favourite platforms!

In this episode of Uncharted Parenting, we sit down with Mark McGill, CEO of Variety SA, to explore the heart behind one of South Australia’s most impactful children’s charities. Mark shares his journey to leading Variety, the stories that have stayed with him over the years, and the incredible legacy the organisation has built in celebrating 50 years of supporting children and families.
Together, we unpack what drives Variety’s mission, the challenges and triumphs along the way, and what lies ahead as they continue to create opportunities for kids to thrive. This is a conversation filled with heart, hope, and inspiration for every parent and carer.
Find out more about Variety the Children's Charity here: https://www.variety.org.au/ 

In this episode of Uncharted Parenting, we sit down with Steph Kriewaldt, Principal of Lobethal Lutheran School, to talk about the challenges and opportunities of raising children in today’s tech-driven world. Steph shares insights from the Tech Smart Initiative she recently attended at St Ignatius College, alongside leaders like Wayne Holdsworth and Premier Peter Malinauskas, and reflects on what those conversations mean for families and schools alike.
Steph shares her journey from working in the Tech sector to now becoming an Educational Leader, and offers practical ways parents and educators can work together to help kids thrive online and offline.
We also share details about our upcoming event, Parenting in a Digital Age, happening Thursday 14th August at Cornerstone College — an unmissable night for parents wanting to feel confident, informed, and connected in the ever-changing digital landscape.

In this episode of Uncharted Parenting, we sit down with Jana Gomes, an experienced sexuality educator with a background in psychology, sexology, and sexual health—who specialises in consent education, respectful relationships, coercive control and gender equality. Drawing on real-world examples from her workshops with young people in the youth justice system to sessions with AFL and NRL athletes—Jana shares how consent training can spark meaningful change across communities 
This conversation goes far beyond “the talk.” This episode equips you with the confidence, language, and practical skills to build a home culture rooted in consent, respect, and safety.
Jana reminds us that consent isn’t just about sex—it’s about every interaction we model and nurture.
We also highlight trusted Australian resources to support families and young people:
Kids Helpline – free, confidential counselling for young people up to age 25.
1800RESPECT – Australia’s national sexual, domestic and family violence counselling line.
Shine SA – South Australia’s sexual violence support organisation offering counselling and education.
 

In this episode of Uncharted Parenting, we’re joined by renowned psychologist and parenting expert Dr Vanessa Lapointe to explore a powerful reframe: what if boundaries weren’t walls to keep our kids out, but doors that invite them in?
Together, we unpack how parents can set firm but compassionate boundaries while nurturing connection—especially in those tricky moments when it feels lost or hard to find. Dr Lapointe shares practical wisdom on how to rebuild bridges, stay grounded in your role, and meet your young person with empathy, even when they push back.
If you’ve ever questioned how to hold the line without shutting your child out, this conversation is for you.

In this episode of Uncharted Parenting, we’re joined by Mimi Crowe, the Acting Commissioner for Children and Young People in South Australia, to explore what safety really means to today’s teenagers. Drawing on the findings of the 2024 Teenagers and Safety Report, Mimi shares the voices of young people themselves — their fears, their needs, and the support they’re calling for from the adults around them.
We move beyond the physical measures of safety — locks, lights, and curfews — to uncover the deeper layers of emotional and psychological safety that matter most to young people. From the value of being listened to without judgement, to the importance of consistent adult presence and community connection, this conversation challenges us to think differently about how we protect and empower our young people.
If you’re a parent, caregiver or educator looking to better understand the world young people are navigating, this episode offers practical insights and fresh perspective grounded in the lived experience of young South Australians.
📄 Read the full Teenagers and Safety Report here:Teenagers and Safety Report (PDF)

In this episode of Uncharted Parenting, we dive into the fascinating—and sometimes frustrating—world of risk-taking. Why do young people push boundaries, chase thrills and seem to throw caution to the wind? Encounter Youth’s Senior Educator, Sondra Walker, joins us to explore the powerful changes in the adolescent brain that drive these behaviours.
We unpack the science behind why risk feels rewarding to teens, how social influences shape their decisions, and what’s actually normal when it comes to pushing limits. Sondra also shares practical insights on how parents can respond with calm, curiosity and connection, rather than control or fear.
If you’ve ever scratched your head at your young person’s choices, this episode offers a fresh perspective—grounded in neuroscience and compassion.

In this episode of Uncharted Parenting, we’re joined by Encounter Youth's Education & Analytics Coordinator Zoe O’Donovan to unpack the often misunderstood approach of harm minimisation. While sensational headlines and scare tactics often dominate the conversation, Zoe offers a refreshing, evidence-based perspective grounded in compassion and realism.
Together, we explore why harm minimisation isn’t about encouraging risky behaviour—it’s about meeting young people where they’re at, equipping them with accurate information, and empowering parents to have open, judgement-free conversations. From drug education and alcohol use to navigating trust and boundaries, this episode is a must-listen for any parent wanting to stay connected and informed, without falling into fear.
If you want to find out more about Encounter Youth's, harm minimisation approach to Alcohol & Other Drug education, head to our website:
https://www.encounteryouth.com.au/alcohol-drug-education/
 

In this episode of Uncharted Parenting, we sit down with motivational speaker and cyber safety expert Jonny Shannon to unpack the realities of raising kids in a world dominated by screens, social media and 24/7 connectivity. Navigating your child’s digital world can feel like walking through a minefield—one wrong step and things can go sideways fast.
Drawing on years of experience speaking in schools across Australia and New Zealand, Jonny shares eye-opening stories and practical tips for tackling the toughest online challenges. From managing screen time and gaming addiction to dealing with cyberbullying, this conversation will equip you with the tools you need to parent with confidence in the digital age.
Want to know more about Jonny and the work he does, check it out here 👇 https://www.jonnyshannon.com/cybersafety.

In this powerful episode of Uncharted Parenting, we sit down with mental health advocate, Founder and Director of Mindful Aus, Matt Runnalls to unpack the stigma surrounding mental health and the impact of talking openly about it.
Matt shares his personal journey to mental health resilience and wellness, highlighting the importance of honest conversations in building connection and fostering real change. Whether you're a parent, carer or educator, this episode offers insight and encouragement for creating a culture of support.
 
If your interested in Matt's book 'Nobody Can Save Me' click the link below:
https://mattrunnalls.com.au/product/ncsm/ 
 
Want to find out more about Mindful Aus and the work that Matt and his team do every day, hit the following link to find out more:
https://www.mindfullaus.org/ 
 
If you or someone you know needs support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, Beyond Blue at beyondblue.org.au, or Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800.