Dr Kathy Weston's Get a Grip! Parenting Podcast

What does it really mean to feel that we matter? In this interview, leadership researcher Dr Zach Mercurio explores why feeling seen, heard and valued is central to wellbeing, resilience and performance. Drawing on research and real-world examples, Dr Mercurio shows how mattering is built through everyday interactions, explains why purpose grows from feeling significant to others, and discusses how small, intentional actions like noticing, affirming strengths and repairing relationships can make a profound difference. He offers practical, evidence-informed insights for leaders, educators and parents who want to create environments where people know they are valued and needed.

Professor Julia Davidson and Dr Ruby Farr chat to us about their new book, Pathways into and out of Youth Cybercrime, which is due for publication this month. Drawing on large-scale surveys, expert interviews and conversations with convicted cybercriminals, their research examines the human and technical drivers behind online offending, highlighting key risk factors. Surprisingly, almost 50% of the 8000 young people they surveyed had engaged in some form of cybercrime! Our Researchers of the Month talk us through their research and offer practical strategies that parents and educators can use to help guide young people toward safe, ethical engagement online.

In this interview, we chat with Dr Anna Morrison CBE, founder and director of Amazing Apprenticeships. Anna is a leading voice in the education and skills sector, with over 25 years’ experience championing apprenticeships, widening opportunity and shaping vocational pathways for young people. Anna debunks numerous common misconceptions about apprenticeships, broadens our understanding of the diverse opportunities available, and highlights how the sector has transformed in recent years. She explores what apprenticeships look like today, who they’re for, how young people can apply, and what schools and families can do to support informed, confident decision-making. This conversation offers practical insights for parents, carers and educators, and shines a light on the expanding possibilities apprenticeships provide for learners of all ages.

How can schools and parents make menstrual education inclusive, open and stigma-free? In this interview, Dr Maria Tomlinson and community engagement specialist Mariam Pasha share insights from their collaboration with Irise International to create faith-informed menstrual health resources with Muslim communities. Together, they discuss why it’s vital to normalise conversations about menstruation, involve boys in lessons and ensure access to period products in schools.

Join Dr Kathy Weston in an in-depth conversation with Melinda Tankard Reist, author, advocate and co-founder of Collective Shout, as they explore the impact of the sexualisation and objectification of women and girls in media, advertising and online platforms. Melinda shares her journey from journalist to activist, revealing how structural misogyny and the normalisation of pornography shape young people’s attitudes, behaviours and relationships. From the TikTok-to-OnlyFans pipeline to global campaigns against violent misogynistic content, Melinda highlights both the risks facing young people and the small but powerful steps educators and parents can take to create a safer, more equitable world. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in protecting children, challenging harmful cultural narratives, and empowering the next generation to demand respect and equality.Please note that this interview contains adult themes and is not suitable for younger ears.