Advertise on podcast: Well, hello anxiety with Dr Jodi Richardson

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_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQ See 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 Blue See 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 54Sheet1 See 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.

In this episode, Dr. Jodi Richardson sits down with social worker Jessica Homicki to explore anxiety in primary school-aged children and its impact on families. Jessica, who leads Uniting's School Attendance Support Program in Southern Melbourne, brings over ten years of experience working with families affected by trauma and disadvantage.Together, they discuss:How anxiety presents differently in children aged 5-12The connection between early childhood experiences, attachment, and anxietyWhy avoidance becomes such a significant part of the anxiety picturePractical strategies for parents who are struggling with school refusal or "school can't"The importance of self-care for parents and why putting on your own oxygen mask first isn't selfishGaps in mental health services for primary-aged childrenThe Stop, Pause, Play framework for responding to your child's distressSmall, achievable steps for managing bedtime anxiety and sleep routinesJessica also shares valuable insights about the Window of Tolerance and provides guidance on accessing support through parenting programs like Tuning Into Kids, Bringing Up Great Kids, and Circle of Security. This conversation is essential listening for any parent navigating childhood anxiety, particularly in the wake of COVID-19's lasting impact on our children's emotional wellbeing.Links Mentioned:- Circle of Securityhttps://www.circleofsecurityinternational.com/pages/what-is-the-circle-of-security#- Tuning in to Kids and Teenshttps://tuningintokids.org.au/what-is-tuning-in-to-kids/our-programs/- Bringing up Great Kids and Parenting Adolescentshttp://bringingupgreatkids.org/en/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When was the last time you truly played? Not exercised, not scrolled - but actually played like a child? In this energising conversation, Dr. Jodi Richardson sits down with Dale Sidebottom, co-founder of the School of Play and TEDx speaker, to explore why play isn't just for kids - it's a powerful tool for reducing stress, anxiety, and building connection in our adult lives.Dale shares his journey from classroom teacher to global play advocate, presenting in over 25 countries and working with everyone from London schoolchildren to the Royal family of Saudi Arabia. You'll discover:Why being present through play is one of the most effective ways to combat anxietySimple, free games you can play tonight with family, friends, or colleagues.How just 10 minutes of intentional play can boost happiness by 40% and reduce stress by 20%The science behind "play-based mindfulness" and why boredom is actually good for creativityPractical strategies for building play into your daily routine - even when life feels overwhelmingWhether you're a stressed parent, overwhelmed professional, or simply someone who's forgotten how to have fun, this episode offers a refreshing reminder that play isn't frivolous- it's essential. Dale's infectious energy and practical insights will inspire you to put down your phone, pick up some dice, and reconnect with the joy that's been waiting for you all along.Resources mentioned:365 Days of Play bookSchool of Play app (free activities available)Dale's TEDx talk on rediscovering playConnect with Dale Sidebottom on Instagram: @dalesidebottomVisit: schoolofplay.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this heartfelt and honest conversation, Dr. Jodi Richardson sits down with accredited mental health social worker and couples/family therapist Marie Vakakis to discuss a challenge every parent faces: how do we support our children when we're struggling ourselves? Marie shares practical strategies for parents who are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or burnt out. From the importance of self-compassion to finding the right words to communicate with your family, this episode offers permission to be human while still showing up for those we love. Key topics include: Why self-compassion is the essential first step when you're struggling How to stop masking your emotions and start naming them (without oversharing) Simple phrases you can use to set boundaries and communicate your needs The hidden cost of the "I'm fine" response Why showing vulnerability actually builds connection with your children Practical tips for starting small when you've never talked about emotions before Marie also shares insights about the dangerous fantasy of needing a "break" so badly that minor injury seems appealing—and what this really signals about our need for rest and support. Whether you're navigating a difficult season or simply feeling the weight of daily life, this conversation offers both validation and practical tools for moving forward with more openness and less guilt. Guest Bio: Marie Vakakis is an accredited mental health social worker and couples and family therapist. She runs The Therapy Hub in Footscray, Melbourne, and hosts two podcasts: "This Complex Life" and "Inside Social Work." See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this powerful two-part conversation, Dr. Jodi Richardson sits down with Gus Worland, co-founder of Gotcha4Life and mental health advocate, to discuss the urgent need for open conversations about suicide prevention and mental fitness in Australia.After losing his dear friend and mentor to suicide, Gus dedicated his life to reducing Australian suicide deaths to zero. In this episode, he shares the shocking statistics—someone attempts to take their life every eight minutes in Australia—and explains why we must move from "man up and shut up" to "human up and speak up."Gus discusses:The importance of building your "village" before you need itWhy we need to make mental health about prevention, not just crisisHow one vulnerable conversation on breakfast radio sparked a movementPractical ways parents can create space for honest conversations with their kidsWhy saying "I don't know" can be the most powerful thing a parent doesThe free Gotcha4Life mental fitness app and how it helps build emotional muscleThis conversation is filled with hope, practical advice, and a reminder that asking for help is the bravest thing you can do. Whether you're struggling yourself or want to be there for someone who is, this episode offers actionable steps to create genuine connections and save lives.Resources mentioned:Lifeline: 13 11 14Gotcha4Life Mental Fitness App (free download, no signup required)Gus Worland's TEDx talk (now available in 12 languages)Content warning: This episode discusses suicide. Please take care when listening.Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson:https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this powerful two-part conversation, Dr. Jodi Richardson sits down with Gus Worland, co-founder of Gotcha4Life and mental health advocate, to discuss the urgent need for open conversations about suicide prevention and mental fitness in Australia. After losing his dear friend and mentor to suicide, Gus dedicated his life to reducing Australian suicide deaths to zero. In this episode, he shares the shocking statistics—someone attempts to take their life every eight minutes in Australia—and explains why we must move from "man up and shut up" to "human up and speak up." Gus discusses: The importance of building your "village" before you need it Why we need to make mental health about prevention, not just crisis How one vulnerable conversation on breakfast radio sparked a movement Practical ways parents can create space for honest conversations with their kids Why saying "I don't know" can be the most powerful thing a parent does The free Gotcha4Life mental fitness app and how it helps build emotional muscle This conversation is filled with hope, practical advice, and a reminder that asking for help is the bravest thing you can do. Whether you're struggling yourself or want to be there for someone who is, this episode offers actionable steps to create genuine connections and save lives. Resources mentioned: Lifeline: 13 11 14 Gotcha4Life Mental Fitness App (free download, no signup required) Gus Worland's TEDx talk (now available in 12 languages) Content warning: This episode discusses suicide. Please take care when listening. Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson: https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Dr. Jodi Richardson welcomes back Sarah Rusbatch for her third appearance on the podcast—a conversation that has truly been life-changing for Jodi's own alcohol-free journey. Sarah, a specialist in gray area drinking and menopause coach based in Perth, Western Australia, shares her expertise on supporting midlife women through some of life's biggest transitions. From understanding gray area drinking (for those who don't identify as alcoholics but notice alcohol taking more than it's giving) to navigating perimenopause and healthy aging, Sarah offers practical, compassionate guidance rooted in science. Key topics discussed: What gray area drinking is and why midlife women are most affected Sarah's personal transformation from gray area drinker to marathon runner The powerful quote: "Be patient when becoming a version of yourself you've never met before" Why women become more insulin resistant after 40 and what to do about it Simple "hacks" for better sleep, including morning sunlight exposure without sunglasses The shocking truth about liquid sugar and children's health ratings How to approach change through "tiny experiments" rather than overwhelming overhauls The importance of understanding the "why" behind healthy choices Sarah discusses her programs including 30-day alcohol-free challenges and her Thrive After 40 program, which focuses on nutrition, movement, sleep, and overall wellbeing for midlife women—all delivered with compassion and community support. Whether you're curious about your relationship with alcohol, struggling with midlife changes, or simply want to feel vibrant and excited about aging, this conversation offers hope, practical strategies, and the reminder that it's never too late to become the healthiest version of yourself. Find Sarah: SarahRusbatch.com | Instagram: @sarahrusbatch This episode is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson: https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this deeply moving episode, Dr. Jodi Richardson speaks with author and health journalist Casey Beros about the realities of becoming a caregiver for aging or terminally ill loved ones. Casey shares her personal journey of uprooting her young family to care for her father through his terminal mesothelioma diagnosis, offering both heartfelt storytelling and practical guidance. Casey opens up about the challenges of navigating Australia's healthcare system, the myth of the "sandwich generation," and why burnout is an inevitable risk for carers who don't prioritise respite. She discusses the importance of self-compassion, the power of dark humour during difficult times, and why showing up with integrity matters—even when relationships are complicated. Her book, Next of Kin, has been called "The Barefoot Investor for care" and provides essential guidance for the more than three million Australians currently in caring roles. Whether you're caring for aging parents, a sick child, or a partner needing support, this conversation offers validation, hope, and actionable advice. Key topics include: Recognising yourself as a caregiver (you might already be one) Navigating healthcare systems and becoming a better advocate The critical importance of respite care Finding moments of joy and humor in dark times Honouring your loved ones in meaningful, unconventional ways Resources mentioned: Violet (violet.org.au) - government-funded support for carers This episode is essential listening for anyone in a caring role or preparing for the inevitable season when they will be. Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson: https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQ   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Dr. Jodi Richardson in this insightful conversation with parenting educator and author Maggie Dent as they explore the complexities of raising teenagers in today's world. Maggie, known as the "Queen of Common Sense," shares her expertise on adolescent brain development, explaining the pruning process, heightened emotions, and why teens behave the way they do. In this episode, you'll discover: What's really happening in your teenager's developing brain Why forgetfulness and big emotions are completely normal The importance of being a "lighthouse figure" in a teen's life How to communicate with your teen using the three C's: calmness, curiosity, and compassion Practical strategies for supporting teens through anxiety, stress, and life's challenges Warning signs to watch for and when to seek additional support Maggie shares wisdom from her latest (and final) book, "Help Me Help My Teen," which includes insights from teens around the world. This conversation will help you understand that while parenting a teenager is hard, being a teenager today is harder than ever before—and there are meaningful ways you can show up for them. Whether you're parenting tweens, teens, or supporting young people in your life, this episode offers compassionate, evidence-based guidance for navigating these transformative years. Connect with me: https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQ   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feeling anxious about artificial intelligence? You're not alone. AI anxiety is actually defined in scientific literature as "feelings of apprehension or fear stemming from the accelerated development of AI technologies." In this episode, Dr Jodi Richardson speaks with Leanne Shelton, founder and CEO of Human Edge AI and author of "AI Human Fusion," about why AI is causing widespread anxiety and what we can actually do about it. Leanne shares her own journey from being a copywriter worried about AI replacing her job to becoming a leading voice for human-centered AI adoption. Together, they discuss: Why treating AI like a junior assistant (not a god-like being) changes everything The importance of training AI tools rather than letting them train us How to use ChatGPT and other AI tools without losing your critical thinking skills Why keeping human connection and authenticity matters more than ever Practical prompting strategies that actually work The real risks of over-relying on AI (and how to avoid them) Whether you're AI-curious, AI-anxious, or already using these tools daily, this conversation offers a balanced, human-first perspective on navigating this technological shift without losing yourself in the process. Find Leanne: LinkedIn: Leanne Shelton | Website: humanedge.ai Connect with me: https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQ   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.