Well, hello anxiety with Dr Jodi Richardson

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.auSee 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_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQSee 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_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQSee 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_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQSee 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.

In this powerful episode Dr. Jodi Richardson sits down with Ruby Riethmuller — Deputy Commissioner of Lived Experience at the NSW Mental Health Commission and founder of Womn-Kind. Ruby opens up about her personal journey with anxiety, from being a teenager in regional Australia searching for answers, to becoming a national leader and advocate for youth mental health. Together, Jodi and Ruby explore the challenges young people face today — from social pressures and climate anxiety to the burden of worrying about friends — and the practical ways families can support their wellbeing at home. Ruby also shares how Womn-Kind is reshaping mental health support through workshops, mentoring, and an innovative app designed to meet young people where they are. This is a conversation about resilience, the power of lived experience, and reframing anxiety’s “weaknesses” as strengths that can fuel connection, empathy, and leadership. Connect with me: https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQ  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, Dr. Jodi Richardson continues her deep dive with internationally acclaimed scientist and author Dr. Stacy Sims—a global leader in women’s exercise physiology and nutrition. This episode unpacks the science every woman needs to know about: Protein: how much we really need, why the RDA is outdated, and how hitting the right targets changes everything from muscle to mood. Creatine: the most researched supplement in the world and a game-changer for women’s energy, brain health, and resilience against anxiety and depression. Saunas & Cold Plunges: why women respond differently than men, the ideal temperatures for maximum benefit, and how to safely integrate heat and cold into your routine for better health, mood, and longevity. If you’ve ever wondered how to fuel, train, and recover in ways that actually support women’s unique physiology - this conversation will inspire you to rethink your approach and take charge of your long-term wellbeing. Connect with me: https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.