Let’s be honest—talking to our kids about sex, puberty and where babies come from can bring up more anxiety for us than them. In this episode, Dr. Jodi Richardson is joined by educator, author, and parenting expert Michelle Mitchell to guide parents through these tricky conversations with compassion, clarity, and confidence.

Drawing from decades of experience and her brand new book, Where Do Babies Come From? And Other Questions 8 to 12 Year Olds Ask, Michelle shares:

• Why early and age-appropriate conversations are crucial

• How to use humour and honesty to create a safe space

• What to do when you feel awkward or anxious as a parent

• Why giving kids the right words gives them the power to speak up

• The difference between replacing vs. reinforcing your role as the trusted adult

You’ll also hear hilarious real-life questions from kids, how to flip common fears parents hold, and why giving your child a book should never be a substitute for a conversation.

Whether you’ve had “the talk” or are dreading it, this episode will equip you with tools, language, and courage to start and sustain open dialogue with your kids.

📚 Michelle’s Books:

• Where Do Babies Come From? And Other Questions 8 to 12 Year Olds Ask

• A Guy’s Guide to Puberty

• A Girl’s Guide to Puberty

🛒 Where to purchase

• Children’s Books: michellemitchell.org

• Parenting Books: Available at all major retailers including Amazon and Booktopia

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After workplace trauma left her with PTSD and chronic fatigue, former high school teacher Amanda Battle found herself unable to work, physically depleted, and emotionally shut down. But one unexpected invitation—to a free diving retreat—set in motion a powerful journey of recovery and reconnection.

In this deeply moving conversation, Dr. Jodi Richardson and Amanda explore:

🌊 The science and soul of “blue therapy” and why the ocean is so calming for an anxious mind
🫁 How freediving helped Amanda reclaim her breath, strength, and sense of self
📷 The birth of Women of Water, Amanda’s stunning ocean-based photo project and coffee table book
🌀 The power of embodiment, community, and saying “yes” when everything inside you says “no”

Now a surf coach and underwater photographer, Amanda has not only transformed her own life—she’s helping hundreds of other women connect with healing, identity, and calm through the water.

Follow Amanda:
📷 @oceans.of.love.photography
📘 Women of Water available at: womenofwater.com.au

Connect with me:

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Have you ever thought about your relationship with alcohol - not because of a problem, but out of curiosity or concern for your mental wellbeing? In this episode, Jodi sits down with sobriety coach, entrepreneur, and former ESPN anchor James Swanwick to talk about the surprising and powerful links between alcohol, anxiety, sleep, and overall health. James shares his personal story of quitting alcohol after a moment of reflection in a hotel mirror and how that decision changed his entire life.

Together, they explore:

• The neuroscience of alcohol and anxiety

• Why drinking to relax often backfires

• Social pressure, identity, and the myth of "just one glass"

• How to rethink your relationship with alcohol without shame

• Why giving it up might be the greatest gift you give yourself

Whether you're sober-curious, taking a break for Dry July, or just ready for more clarity and less anxiety, this episode will inspire and empower you to choose differently.

📘 James’ book Clear is available wherever books are sold, including Amazon.
🌐 Learn more about James and his coaching programs at alcoholfreelifestyle.com

Connect with me:

https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQ

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.