Well, hello anxiety with Dr Jodi Richardson

Dr Jodi Richardson is joined by cyber safety expert Susan McLean for a powerful and eye-opening conversation about the realities of raising kids in a digital world. From the illusion of online anonymity to the very real risks of sextortion, Susan shares what every parent needs to understand about how children are navigating life online - and why being “safe at home” doesn’t always mean being safe on the internet. With over three decades of experience, including her time as a former Victoria Police officer in the Sex Crimes and Child Abuse Investigation Unit, Susan brings practical, no-nonsense advice to help families stay informed, aware and proactive. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why kids behave differently online—and the truth about digital footprints What sextortion is, how it happens, and why teen boys are increasingly being targeted The legal realities around sharing explicit images Why “one conversation” isn’t enough when it comes to online safety How to create ongoing, everyday conversations that actually protect your child This is an essential listen for any parent wanting to better understand the risks—and how to support their kids with confidence, clarity and care. Resources & Links:Find Susan McLean’s book Growing Up Digital: Helping Your Kids and Teens Navigate Life Online via her website:Cyber Safety Solutions – https://www.cybersafetysolutions.com.au Also available at major retailers including Amazon and Booktopia.   Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson: https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Jodi Richardson is joined by family therapist, educator and author Lisa Taylor for a deeply honest and eye-opening conversation about parenting, anxiety, and the hidden patterns shaping our family lives. After more than 25 years working with families, Lisa shares one powerful truth: it’s not about learning more parenting strategies… it’s about understanding ourselves first. Together, Jodi and Lisa explore how parenting can stir our deepest fears, why our reactions often come from our own childhood “heart prints,” and how shifting from control to connection can transform our relationships with our kids. In this episode, you’ll discover: Why parenting triggers anxiety and big emotional reactions What “heart prints” are—and how they shape your responses The difference between reacting to your child vs responding to them Why behaviour always equals a need How curiosity, courage and connection can change everything The three core emotional needs we all share: to feel seen, heard and loved PLUS, Lisa shares practical ways to pause in the moment, create more emotional “bandwidth,” and move away from the pressure of perfect parenting. This is a powerful reminder that we’re not just raising children—we’re growing ourselves too. 🔗 Connect with Lisa Taylor Website: https://strengtheningfamiliesaustralia.com.au Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisataylor.ou Facebook & LinkedIn: Lisa Taylor   Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson: https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this rich and honest Part 2 conversation, Jodi and Dr Kat pick up where they left off, diving even deeper into the tools and strategies that help us recover, recharge, and truly thrive — both at work and at home. In this episode, you'll learn: Why connection and community are non-negotiable ingredients for recovery - and how to "stack" activities for an additive effect How to identify your personal non-negotiables across the week (not just the day) so you can feel like you again The three components of burnout that go beyond exhaustion - and why so many high-achieving women are quietly experiencing all three Why women are often carrying a second and even third shift - and what the data says about when people are logging on to work The gender differences in how we're triggered by our environment and why tidying the Tupperware drawer isn't just procrastination - it's nervous system regulation A simple two-column exercise to audit your job demands vs. your job resources How to say no gracefully at work - with Dr Kat's go-to script for managing up without burning bridges What good work really means, and why Dr Kat believes work can be the solution to the mental health crisis, not just the problem Dr Kat also shares more about her brand new book, Good Work: Transform Your Work from the Inside Out - a must-read for anyone who works (so, all of us!). Available on Amazon or through your local bookshop. Learn more about Dr Kat Page OR Buy her book 'Good Work' at: www.drkatpage.com Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson: https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feeling overwhelmed at work? You’re not alone - and it might not be a “you” problem. In this episode of Well, Hello Anxiety, Dr Jodi Richardson is joined by organisational psychologist Dr Kat Page, author of Good Work, to explore how our workplaces can shape our mental health - for better or worse. Together they unpack why anxiety and stress at work are often a natural response to demanding environments, not a personal weakness. From constant interruptions and heavy workloads to a lack of control or recovery time, Dr Kat explains how modern work can keep our nervous systems stuck in “stress mode.” But there is hope. In Part 1 of this conversation, you’ll learn:• Why anxiety at work is often a normal biological response, not a failure• How high demands and low control can lead to burnout and job strain• The powerful concept of “punctuating your day” with small pauses to reset your nervous system• Why the way you spend your time after work can make a huge difference to your recovery If you’ve ever felt stretched between work, family, and life admin - this episode will help you understand what’s really going on and give you practical ways to support your wellbeing. 🎧 Plus: This is Part 1 of a two-part conversation with Dr Kat Page... stay tuned for Part 2 next week. Connect with Dr Kat Page: https://www.drkatpage.com/ Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson:https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Parenting can be one of the most meaningful – and most challenging – roles we’ll ever have. But what if the key to raising emotionally healthy children isn’t about fixing our kids… but about understanding ourselves?In this powerful conversation, Dr Jodi Richardson sits down with world-renowned clinical psychologist and bestselling author Dr Shefali, often described as Oprah Winfrey’s favourite parenting expert and the pioneer of the Conscious Parenting movement.Dr Shefali shares how traditional parenting models rooted in control, fear, and perfectionism can unintentionally disconnect us from our children – and how a conscious parenting approach can transform not only our relationships with our kids, but also our relationship with ourselves.Together, Jodi and Dr Shefali explore:Why parenting is not a talent but a skill we cultivateHow our children can become mirrors for our own healingThe hidden pressure parents place on themselves to be “perfect”Why awareness and presence are the first steps to conscious parentingHow to repair after conflict and strengthen connectionWhy the most important work of parenting is actually raising our own inner childIf you’ve ever felt guilt, overwhelm, or the pressure to get parenting “right”, this episode is a powerful reminder that perfection isn’t the goal – growth and awareness are.Dr Shefali will also be visiting Australia for two special live events where she’ll dive deeper into conscious parenting and how it can transform families for generations.Learn more about Dr Shefali and her work:https://www.drshefali.com/Tickets for Dr Shefali’s Australian events:https://www.ticketmaster.com.au/dr-shefali-tickets/artist/3755409   If this conversation resonates with you, share it with another parent who might need the encouragement today. Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson:https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this heartwarming and deeply practical follow-up episode, host Dr. Jodi Richardson continues her insightful conversation with Dr. Jessica Borelli, clinical psychologist, professor, and parenting researcher. Together, they explore how letting go, stepping back, and allowing our kids to make mistakes can actually build their confidence, resilience, and sense of self. Jessica shares fascinating research and real-life stories about reflective functioning (or mentalising)—understanding what’s behind your child’s behaviour - and how stress, sensitivity, and our own anxieties can influence the way we parent.Plus, Dr. Jodi opens up about her own “helping instinct” as a mum and what she’s learning about presence, trust, and connection. Whether you’re raising little ones or teens, this episode will leave you feeling supported, inspired, and more confident in your parenting journey. 🎧 Listen now and don’t miss Part 1 of this rich two-part conversation if you haven’t already! Learn more about Dr. Jessica Borelli’s work, research, and books at www.jessicaborelli.comVisit www.drjodirichardson.com for resources, speaking events, and wellbeing tools.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this two-part conversation, host Dr. Jodi Richardson sits down with Dr. Jessica Borelli, clinical psychologist, researcher, and author of Nature Meets Nurture, to explore what it truly means to be present as a parent.Jessica shares touching stories — including a heartfelt reflection on her grandmother — and the science behind her powerful approach, Relational Savoring, which helps parents feel more confident and connected to their children. Together, Jodi and Jessica discuss how even five minutes of intentional connection can make a lasting difference, how to ease parenting guilt, and why cherishing the smallest moments may be the antidote to anxiety.Whether you’re parenting toddlers, teens, or grown kids, this episode is a reminder that connection doesn’t take perfection — just presence.✨ Part 2 of this conversation drops next week!   Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson: https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you holding back from putting yourself out there in business because of fear, anxiety, or self-doubt? In this episode, Dr. Jodi Richardson sits down with award-winning personal branding photographer and business mentor Fi Mims to explore the invisible barriers that keep women from showing up authentically in their businesses. Fiona shares her insights from working with countless women navigating the challenges of visibility - from posting that first photo to sharing opinions confidently online. Together, they discuss: Why "Who am I to take up this space?" holds so many women back How to show up authentically without comparing yourself to others Practical ways to ease into visibility that feel right for you Why your purpose needs to be greater than your fear The power of taking imperfect action and building confidence through practice How to stand out in an AI-driven world by staying authentic The importance of surrounding yourself with the right community Whether you're just starting your business journey, considering a career shift, or already deep in the work of building your brand, this conversation offers both practical strategies and heartfelt encouragement to help you move forward - even when anxiety shows up. Connect with Fi Mims:  Instagram & LinkedIn: @fimims  Website:  https://fimims.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this powerful continuation, Dr. Jodi Richardson and conflict resolution expert Dr. Ashleigh Moreland tackle the conversations we all dread but desperately need to have. Dr. Moreland breaks down her game-changing "Observe, Think, Feel, Need, Request" framework for navigating workplace tensions—from addressing poor performance to calling out passive-aggressive behaviour. Learn why most of us get these conversations wrong and how to create the psychological safety needed for real change. Key Topics Covered: How to stop people-pleasing and over-apologising (and why women especially struggle with this) The surprising truth about when NOT to have a difficult conversation Navigating unsolicited family advice about parenting, career moves, and life choices Face-to-face vs. text: choosing the right medium for tough talks Managing your emotional reactions in the moment Recognising when it's time to walk away from toxic relationships Dr. Moreland shares real-world scenarios and actionable strategies you can use immediately, whether you're dealing with a difficult colleague, setting boundaries with family, or finally having that conversation you've been avoiding. Resources Mentioned: Dr. Ashleigh Moreland's website: www.ashleighmoreland.com Connect on Instagram: @drashleighmoreland See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if your body could tell you everything you need to know about your anxiety — if only you knew how to listen? In this powerful first part of their conversation, Dr. Jodi Richardson sits down with neurophysiologist and trauma-informed therapist Dr. Ashleigh Moreland to unpack what it really means to feel safe in your body again. They talk about the difference between the mind and the brain, why anxiety so often shows up as physical symptoms, and how early life experiences can shape the way we respond to stress. Ashleigh shares her own story of parenting through anxiety, explains how somatic awareness helps us come back to the present moment, and reveals why “fixing the wiring” matters more than constantly “putting out fires.” If you’ve ever been told “there’s nothing wrong with you” when your body says otherwise, this conversation will make you feel seen, understood, and full of hope. Resources mentioned by Dr Ashleigh Moreland: https://www.re-mind.institute/linktree See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Learning can be tough for any child—but for kids with dyslexia, ADHD, autism, dyscalculia, or dysgraphia, school can feel especially overwhelming. Add anxiety to the mix, and both children and parents can feel lost about where to turn. In this heartwarming and practical conversation, Dr Jodi Richardson sits down with Emily Fogg, founder of Wise Owl Education and a passionate teacher with over 15 years’ experience supporting neurodiverse students. Emily shares how she’s helping families navigate the education system, advocate for their children, and rebuild confidence and joy in learning. Together, Jodi and Emily explore:💡 What common learning differences really mean (and what they don’t)💡 How anxiety often shows up alongside learning challenges💡 Practical steps for parents who suspect their child may need extra support💡 Why mental health must come before grades—and how confidence can transform learning If you’re a parent, teacher, or carer of a child who learns differently—or you simply want to understand more about how we can make education more inclusive—this episode is a must-listen. Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson: https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if the barrier to better mental health isn't knowledge - it's actually doing something about it? Most of us know meditation and gratitude are good for us, but how many of us actually practice them daily? In this honest conversation, Dr. Jodi Richardson speaks with Cooper Chapman about the gap between knowing what helps and actually taking action. Cooper shares his personal journey from professional surfer to mental health advocate, shaped by early losses to suicide and his father's struggles with depression in an era of "toughen up" masculinity. The conversation explores a deceptively simple question: Can we give just 1% of our day - 14 minute - to mental health? And more importantly, what would that actually look like in practice? Key insights from this episode: Why meditation isn't about being "good" at it - it's about showing up The water bottle metaphor: understanding why your mind feels so busy when you first sit down How to watch thoughts float by instead of getting swept away by them The difference between responding and reacting in challenging moments Five core values that support mental health: responsibility, gratitude, empathy, mindfulness, and kindness Why connecting with nature and our senses matters more than we realize Dr. Jodi shares a powerful personal story about empathy in a Woolworths checkout line that reminds us how regulation and mindfulness show up in everyday moments. The conversation also touches on eco-anxiety in young people, the importance of male mental health, and why making mental health "cool" matters. This episode is for you if: You've tried meditation and felt like you were "doing it wrong" You know what helps but struggle with consistency You're looking for practical, science-backed approaches that don't require hours of your day You want to understand how to be more present in daily life A refreshingly honest discussion about mental health that moves beyond awareness into actionable practices anyone can start today. Resources mentioned: Shiva Rasa (YouTube/Spotify) for breathwork and meditation The 1% framework: 10 minutes meditation + 4 minutes gratitude Join Cooper's community: DM @thegoodhumanfactory on Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In part two of this essential conversation, host Dr. Jodi Richardson continues her discussion with Dr. Lexi Frydenberg about supporting children and teens struggling with anxiety.Dr. Frydenberg shares practical, real-world examples of how parents can shift from focusing on challenging behaviours to catching their kids doing things right - from messy kitchens to difficult playdates. She explains the power of specific, timely feedback and why connection matters more than correction.This episode tackles the questions parents are really asking: What do you do when your teenager won't talk to you? When should you seek professional help? What's the difference between seeing a GP, pediatrician, psychologist, or psychiatrist? And the big one - when is medication appropriate for childhood anxiety?Dr. Frydenberg offers reassuring, evidence-based guidance on navigating the mental health system in Australia, including Medicare-rebated options, online therapy alternatives like the BRAVE program, and innovative approaches including music and art therapy. She also addresses the stigma around medication, explaining when it might be needed to "break the circuit" and help children engage with therapy.Throughout the conversation, both parents share their own vulnerable moments—from caravan confrontations to modelling repair - reminding us that "good enough" parenting is exactly that: good enough.Resources mentioned: The Strength Switch by Dr. Lea Waters, Headspace, ReachOut, BRAVE program, Raising Children's Network, Royal Children's Hospital, Beyond BlueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Dr Jodi Richardson welcomes Dr Lexi Frydenberg, a pediatrician with over 20 years of clinical experience working with children and families at a large pediatric hospital in Melbourne and the Victorian Children's Clinic.Dr Frydenberg shares what she's seeing in the clinic and how anxiety in children has changed, particularly post-COVID. She explains how anxiety often shows up in ways parents might not expect - through behavioral challenges, tummy aches, headaches, and school refusal - rather than children simply saying "I'm anxious."In this conversation, they discuss:How young children are now presenting with anxiety (younger than the traditional tween years)The three main ways anxiety presents in children: somatic symptoms, articulated worries, and behavioral challengesWhy it's important not to rush to label children with diagnosesThe concept of anticipatory anxiety and how labels can become self-fulfilling propheciesPractical first steps for parents: recognition, education, and having conversations at the right timeThe power of "catching them being good" and focusing on strengths over challenging behaviorsCo-regulation: how parents need to regulate themselves first before helping their childThe fine line between helicopter/lawnmower parenting and teaching resilienceGraded exposure with practical examples (like food-related anxiety)Why celebrating small wins matters more than achieving the end goalDr Frydenberg emphasizes that anxiety is a normal, protective response we all experience, but offers clear guidance on when it's gone too far and practical strategies families can use while waiting for professional support.This is Part 1 of a two-part conversation. Join us next week for Part 2, where Dr Frydenberg discusses the roles of different practitioners, when medication might be helpful, and what to do when teens refuse to talk.Resources mentioned: https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/anxiety/ https://mentalhealth.melbournechildrens.com/media/kiuftzzo/mhs_childhood-anxiety_guide_e-single.pdf  Raising Children’s Network: https://raisingchildren.net.au/  Anxiety and fears in children (0-8 years) Generalised anxiety in children (3-8 years) Anxiety: the stepladder approach (3-18 years) Raising Healthy Minds AppBeyond BlueReach OutThe BRAVE ProgramShow less 54Sheet1See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Australia, 1 in 10 families are navigating life with food allergies - and the anxiety that comes with keeping children safe can be overwhelming. In this essential conversation, Dr. Jodi Richardson welcomes Tamara Hubbard, founder of the Food Allergy Counselor and author of May Contain Anxiety: Managing the Overwhelm of Parenting Children with Food Allergies.Tamara is pioneering mental health support in food allergy care, helping families find what she calls the "just right balance" between anxiety and quality of life. As both a therapist specialising in food allergies and a parent who walks this path herself, she brings unique insight into the daily challenges families face - from label reading and school lunches to managing the fear of anaphylaxis.In this episode, you'll discover:Why anxiety is a natural part of food allergy management (and when it becomes overwhelming)The powerful "what if to if-then" strategy for managing worried thoughtsHow to determine what's safe, safe enough, and not safe for your childWhy avoidance can extend beyond what's medically necessaryThe importance of having your healthcare team answer key safety questionsHow families can live full, rich lives despite food allergy diagnosesWhether you're newly navigating a food allergy diagnosis, supporting someone who is, or simply want to understand what these families experience daily, this conversation offers hope, practical strategies, and validation for the very real challenges of keeping children safe while helping them thrive.Book Release: May Contain Anxiety is available now in North America in hardcover, paperback, e-book, and audiobook formats. Australian print editions are expected in early 2025, with digital versions available now.Connect with Tamara: Visit foodalergycounselor.com for resources, articles, and therapeutic worksheets, or follow @foodallergycounselor on social media.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.