Uncharted Parenting

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.

In this deeply moving episode of Uncharted Parenting, we speak with Wayne Holdsworth, who courageously shares the heartbreaking story of losing his 17-year-old son, Mac, to suicide in October 2023 after falling victim to an online sexual extortion scam. Wayne opens up about the warning signs, the emotional toll, and the urgent need to raise awareness of the hidden dangers our children face on social media. This powerful conversation is a call for parents to stay connected, informed and vigilant in the digital age.
The topics covered in this episode can be quite confronting, so below are some links to some amazing support services that are extremely helpful: 
Kids Helpline - https://kidshelpline.com.au/
Smacktalk - https://smacktalk.com.au/ 
Mission Australia - https://www.missionaustralia.com.au/
 

In this episode of Uncharted Parenting, we’re joined by Michelle Mitchell—author, educator and parenting advocate—for a powerful conversation on building resilience in our kids.
In a world that often feels uncertain and overwhelming, how do we equip our children to bounce back, adapt and thrive? Michelle unpacks practical strategies, shares stories from her own work and explores what resilience really looks like in today’s world.
Tune in for insight, encouragement and tools you can use right now.
 
Michelle is a best-selling author on a global scale, click the link below to purchase some of Michelle's award-winning books:
https://michellemitchell.org/shop/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21199180995&gbraid=0AAAAACgNOuOmgFngRQYJ8UFSbeCtR3l7H&gclid=CjwKCAjwiezABhBZEiwAEbTPGOT9bEP1GgduMpDs4AvUTFOHnIWv1Sfr8fhZkOh7rXUIUnxStcCO7xoCXS4QAvD_BwE
 
Michelle is also a Key-Note speaker at 'The Raising Resilient Kids Conference'. For more information about the conference, please head to the link below:
https://michellemitchell.org/resilient-kids-conference/?srsltid=AfmBOooGjEOUx-7xdqcbTGZ1JieEjvqXXApoPT9RiVER9TYl5ejQ4KjQ 

In this episode of Uncharted Parenting, we explore why many parents see offering their young person a controlled sip of alcohol as a safe—even responsible—way to introduce drinking. But could this well-intentioned gesture be doing more harm than good?
We’re joined by Dr Andrew Scholefield to unpack the research on parental supply, the impact of alcohol on a young person's brain development and how early exposure can shape a young person’s relationship with alcohol. Join us as we navigate the blurry line between harm minimisation and unintended encouragement.
 
For more access to some amazing resources for parent's please head to the below link:
https://www.encounteryouth.com.au/parent-resources/ 
 
If you would like to book a 'Parent Seminar' for your local School or Community, please reach out to us here:
https://www.encounteryouth.com.au/enquiry-form/ 

In this episode of Uncharted Parenting, we sit down with mum of three, Kristin Nicolson, for a raw and insightful conversation about navigating her son’s desire to attend Schoolies Festival™. Kristin shares her unique experience, the challenges she faced, and how her family approached this milestone with trust and open communication. Her story may differ from many, but it offers valuable lessons in letting go, supporting independence and embracing the unknown.

In this episode of Uncharted Parenting, we sit down with parenting expert Lael Stone for an engaging chat about the power of role models and representation in shaping young minds. After all, how can kids aspire to something they've never seen? We also explore how we, as parents and guardians, can become the safe space our young people need.
 
If you want to hear more from Lael Stone, head to her website here:
https://laelstone.com.au/ 
 
Lael's co-authored book alongside Marion Rose PhD 'Raising Resilient and Compassionate Children' is a must-read for any parent wanting to get to know themselves and their children better. You can purchase it by clicking on the below link:
https://laelstone.com.au/books/ 
 
 

In this episode of Uncharted Parenting, we go behind the scenes to explore the origins of Encounter Youth and uncover what really happens at Schoolies Festival™? We speak directly with Encounter Youth CEO Nigel Knowles about the safety measures in place, and we separate myth from reality. Whether you're a concerned parent or simply curious, this episode offers a fresh perspective on Schoolies—and it may not be what you're expecting.

In this episode of Uncharted Parenting, we unpack the fears and misconceptions surrounding Schoolies Festival™. We chat with a parent who was firmly against it, delve into what really happens at the event and explore how to approach the conversation.
Whether you're leaning towards a hard “no” or simply looking for ways to keep your young person safe, this episode offers practical insights to help you make a confident, informed decision.

In this episode on Uncharted Parenting, we invite you to join us for an insightful and down-to-earth conversation with Dr Justin Coulson as we unpack the highs and lows of parenting.
From approaching difficult conversations about those typical taboo topics to fostering deep connections with your kids, this episode is packed with practical wisdom, real talk and lightbulb moments to hang on to.
If you're navigating teenage turbulence right now, Dr Justin Coulson shares expert advice to help you parent with confidence, empathy, and resilience. Don't miss it!
 
Want to hear more from Dr Justin Coulson head to his website here:
https://happyfamilies.com.au/
 
You can also listen to daily episodes of The Happy Families Podcast on all of your favourite Podcast streaming platforms, including Spotify here:
https://open.spotify.com/show/7k6anX7WAJUfvesEjdpuR1?si=7f1abb085e7a48eb