Conversations with Kristi

In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, Kristi sits down with child safety consultant, author, and educator Nicole Talarico to explore what it really takes to create cultures of safety for children - not just policies, but everyday practice, mindset, and leadership.

Kristi and Nicole discuss why child safety cannot be treated as a compliance checklist, and instead must be embedded into culture, relationships, and daily decision-making across education and care settings.

They unpack the uncomfortable truth that harm does not happen because people don’t care - but often because systems become complacent, reactive, or...

In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, Kristi sits down with Adam from the Family Advocacy and Child Abuse Alliance to explore one of the most difficult but important topics we face as a society - child abuse prevention, awareness, and advocacy.

Kristi and Adam discuss the realities of child abuse, the warning signs that are often missed, and the critical role that education and awareness play in protecting children. This conversation sheds light on how abuse can occur in ways many people don’t expect, and why it’s essential for adults to feel confident recognising and...

In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, Kristi sits down with neurodevelopment specialist and educator Dr. Christine Payard to explore something many parents and teachers have never been taught - how early physical development shapes the way children learn.

Dr. Christine explains how the body and brain work together during the earliest years of life, and how movements such as rolling, crawling, balancing, and reflex responses play a foundational role

In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, Kristi is joined by Damian Porter, also known as The How Not To Die Guy, for a powerful, practical conversation about situational awareness, self-protection, bravery, and what it really means to prepare for unsafe situations.

With a background in the New Zealand Army, including Special Forces, policing in Western Australia, and over 15 years as a firefighter, Damian brings lived experience from high-risk environments - but what stands out most is his grounded, teachable approach to helping everyday people stay safer.

This is not a fear-based conversation.
It’s...

In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, Kristi is joined by Michelle Mitchell, parenting expert, author, and educator, for a practical, encouraging conversation about connection, boundaries, and raising resilient teenagers.

With decades of experience equipping families to stay connected through the messy emotional years, Michelle brings grounded insights that help parents move beyond fear and frustration and into thoughtful, values-based parenting.

This is not a perfection-based conversation.
It’s a connection-based one.

Kristi and Michelle explore why control isn’t the goal, why “parenting is just hard” is a myth, and how building...

In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, Kristi is joined by Jocelyn Brewer - psychologist, former high school teacher, and founder of Digital Nutrition - for a wide-ranging, deeply thoughtful conversation about technology, parenting, wellbeing, and what it truly means to stay human in a digital world.

With over 20 years of experience working at the intersection of psychology, education, and technology, Jocelyn brings clarity, compassion, and a refreshingly non-shaming perspective to one of the most complex challenges facing families today: how to live well with technology rather than be consumed by it.

Kristi and Jocelyn ex...

In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, Kristi is joined by Brooke McIntosh - speaker, endurance runner, and founder of the Just One More movement - for a raw, powerful conversation about mental health, courage, healing, and the ripple effect of choosing to speak when silence feels safer.

Brooke shares the deeply personal story behind her decision to run 14,000 kilometres around Australia - a journey born from suicidal ideation, unspoken trauma, and a life-changing car accident that forced her to confront the reality that she was not okay, despite appearing strong on the outside.

Together, Kr...

In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, Kristi sits down with Dr. Justin Coulson to explore a topic that feels increasingly urgent for parents today: raising boys. Together, they dive into why so many young men are struggling to find their footing and what it actually takes to raise a generation that is resilient, purposeful, and grounded.

Dr. Coulson shares his own "failure to launch" story-from failing school to a decade-long radio career before finding his true calling in psychology-and explains why the path to adulthood isn't a race. They unpack the "Hope Theory," the dangers of "va...

In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, Kristi is joined by Kimberly King - author, educator, and founder of Tough Topics Mom - for a candid and deeply informative discussion on child safety, prevention, and fostering open communication with children.

Kimberly shares her personal journey that led her to advocate for body safety, including a formative experience with her son that resurfaced memories from her own childhood. She reflects on the importance of early conversations about consent, boundaries, and safe adults, and how these conversations can empower children to recognize and respond to unsafe situations.

T...

In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, Kristi is joined by Monique Christidis - registered nurse, child health nurse of 30+ years, and founder of BaaBaa Baby - for a grounded, compassionate conversation about infant development, sleep, regulation, and the foundational role of connection from birth.

Monique brings a wealth of clinical expertise alongside deep empathy for parents navigating the often overwhelming early years. Together, Kristi and Monique explore how babies communicate through behaviour, why crying is not manipulation but communication, and how understanding brain development can radically shift the way parents respond to sleep, distress, and big em...

In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, Kristi is joined by Neil Milton - founder of The Table Talk Project, advocate, and survivor - for a powerful and deeply human conversation about connection, prevention, and the role safe relationships play in protecting children and strengthening families.

Neil shares his lived experience of growing up without a voice at home, the long-term impact of childhood sexual abuse, and how unaddressed trauma shaped his relationships, sense of safety, and ability to ask for help. He reflects on how becoming a parent - and later recognising his own experiences as a...

In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, Kristi is joined by Sharon Collon - ADHD educator, coach, speaker, and founder of The Functional Family - for an honest and practical conversation about neurodiversity, online safety, learning differences, and what actually helps families thrive.

Sharon is also host of the ADHD Families Podcast, where she supports parents navigating life with ADHD and other neurodivergent profiles. Having supported tens of thousands of families, Sharon’s work focuses on turning overwhelming information into clear, doable strategies.

Together, Kristi and Sharon unpack what parents are truly crying out for - no...

In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, Kristi is joined by Rosalia Rivera - founder of Consent Parenting, consent educator, and survivor advocate - for a deeply important conversation about prevention, healing, and the responsibility adults hold in protecting children.

Rosalia shares her lived experience of childhood sexual abuse and how becoming a parent resurfaced memories she didn’t yet have language for. Together, Kristi and Rosalia explore why so many parents avoid child safety conversations - whether through fear, overwhelm, or the belief that “this doesn’t happen in our family” - and how both avoidance and over...

In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, Kristi speaks with Andrew Goss about the lifelong impact of childhood abuse - and the role silence, minimisation, and adult neutrality play in allowing harm to continue.

Andrew shares his lived experience of family violence, sexual abuse (including female offending), and the repeated moments where warning signs were visible - but not acted upon. Together, Kristi and Andrew explore why children often try to communicate harm through behaviour, how grooming operates across different contexts, and why asking questions early can interrupt abuse before it escalates.

This is not...

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The conversation delves into the alarming risks that young people face regarding sexual violence, emphasizing the lack of awareness among parents about these issues. It highlights the prevalence of unwanted sexual encounters and the disturbing trend of children perpetrating sexual violence against their peers.

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The conversation explores the challenges faced by the digital generation as they navigate technology independently. It emphasises the importance of introducing technology in a safe manner, akin to teaching children to swim, where they gradually gain skills and independence.

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In this episode of "Conversations with Kristi," Kristi discusses the alarming rise in online child exploitation with Ben Gillenwater, an IT and cybersecurity expert. They explore the challenges parents face in protecting their children from digital dangers, emphasising the importance of education and proactive parenting. Ben shares his personal journey of becoming the "family IT guy" and offers insights into managing children's online presence safely.

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In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, we delve into the profound impact of trauma on identity, particularly for women as Jessica Ella shares her profound journey of healing from childhood sexual abuse.

Jess discusses her unique approach to trauma recovery, emphasising the importance of understanding complex trauma and its impact on identity. She recounts her personal experiences of abuse, the challenges of navigating family dynamics, and the power of disclosure. The conversation highlights the flaws in the justice system and the necessity of support systems for survivors. Ultimately, Jessica's message is one of em...

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In this special episode of Conversations with Kristi, Kristi McVee and Cheyenne Carter discuss the critical issues surrounding child safety in early childhood education. They explore Chey's journey in the field, the impact of COVID on childcare quality, and the importance of transparency and communication between parents and childcare providers.

The conversation delves into the dynamics of grooming and abuse, the psychological aspects of offenders, and the need for better training and support for educators. Parents are encouraged to be vigilant and proactive in ensuring their children's safety, while also understanding the systemic challenges...

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In this heartfelt conversation, Kristi McVee and Jeanie Dean discuss Jeanie's journey from being a survivor of childhood sexual abuse to becoming an advocate for child safeguarding. They explore the challenges of coping with trauma, the impact of addiction, and the importance of supportive relationships. Jeanie shares her experiences working with sex offenders and in child protection, emphasising the need to see the person behind the behaviour. The conversation also touches on parenting through trauma and the struggle to break cycles of abuse, ultimately highlighting the journey of self-discovery and healing. In this conversation, Jeanie...

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In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, Kerri Sloper shares her journey as a survivor of childhood sexual abuse and her mission to empower children and parents through her children's books. Kerri discusses the healing power of music and writing, the importance of speaking out, and the role of parents in preventing abuse. She emphasises the need for open communication about good and bad touching and how her books serve as tools for healing and understanding. The conversation highlights the significance of breaking the cycle of abuse and fostering a safe environment for children.

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In this episode of Conversations with Kristi we catch up with Susan Dunlop, Susan discusses her journey through self-development, the challenges of family dynamics, and her understanding of avoidance in personal growth. She reflects on her childhood experiences and the conscious choices she has made to improve her relationships and emotional well-being.

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In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, I speak with Diane Tarantini, a body safety educator and author, about the critical importance of conversations surrounding child safety and trauma. We discuss Diane's personal journey as a survivor of childhood abuse, the significance of body safety education, and the alarming statistics regarding child sexual abuse. The conversation emphasises the need for open discussions about difficult topics, the impact of pornography on youth, and the role of therapy in healing. Diane shares valuable tips for parents on how to create safe spaces for their children to talk ab...

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In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, we catch up with Nikki Butler to discuss the importance of teaching protective behaviours to children and instilling a sense of hope for parents who may feel they have missed opportunities in their children's upbringing. She discusses the significance of recognising non-verbal cues and behaviours that indicate harm, and encourages parents to forgive themselves for past mistakes, highlighting that it is never too late to start making positive changes in their parenting approach.

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In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, we catch up with Colleen Murphy to discuss the importance of teaching children to trust their bodies and recognise their own signals, especially in environments where they may feel uncertain. Colleen discusses the role of adults in fostering this trust and provides practical strategies for empowering children to navigate their feelings and experiences.

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In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, Andy and Kristi delve into the emotional dynamics of parenting, particularly focusing on how parents react to situations involving their children, emphasising the importance of remaining calm and understanding the underlying fears that often drive parental anger. They discuss strategies for effective communication and the need for support in navigating challenging conversations with children.

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This episode of Conversations with Kristi delves into the sensitive topic of child-on-child sexual abuse, highlighting the experiences of individuals involved in the ABAR project. It emphasises the misconceptions surrounding children's behaviour in such situations and the importance of recognising the seriousness of these incidents rather than dismissing them as mere experimentation or curiosity.

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In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, Danielle Cheeseman shares her profound fears and anxieties about motherhood, particularly her concerns about raising daughters. She reflects on her own experiences and the challenges she anticipates in preventing her children from facing similar struggles.

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In this episode of "Conversations with Kristi", Anna Sonoda discusses the grooming process that can occur with children and emphasises the critical role that adults play in recognising and interrupting this harmful behaviour. She highlights the importance of legal consequences and the need for adults to be vigilant in protecting children from potential harm.

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Every adult can interrupt the grooming process. Grooming often starts off appearing sweet. Grooming involves pulling children away from normal activities. Adults must be vigilant in recognizing grooming behaviors. Legal consequences are necessary for protecting children...

CONTENT WARNING - discussion about offender behaviours and methodology 

In this episode, Kristi interviews phD candidate, criminologist and psychologist Kelly Jackson. 

Kelly and Kristi discuss the research around offender behaviours and methodologies used in the commission of child sexual abuse and the many ways offenders groom children. 

This interesting conversation explains in detail the grooming process, the types of behaviours offenders use in order to find victims, the research that proves that stops offenders from abusing kids and how parents can actually protect their children from abuse. 

This is a must list...

CONTENT WARNING - language warning, discussing grooming, child sexual abuse, long term abuse and sexual assault

In this episode, Kristi talks with Mel James, lived experience child sexual abuse survivor and advocate for First Nations women enduring systems abuse. 

Mel talks about her personal experience with grooming and child sexual abuse, by a person in authority, who used their position of power in the community to get close to her and her family to abuse her. Mel's abuse lasted more than 10 years and was witnessed by other adults who could have protected her. 

Th...

CONTENT WARNING - language warning, discussions around child sexual abuse, domestic violence of First Nations peoples

In this episode, Kristi talks with proud Palawa woman Rachel Dunn, about the impacts of domestic violence and child sexual abuse on First Nations families and the difficulties in calling-out these tragedies in culture and family. 

Rachel shares her story and her experience in calling out abuse within her family unit, as well as trying to advocate and protect other First Nations children and women, against the prejudice and beliefs that perpetuate and prolong harm and trauma within community. 

CONTENT WARNING - language warning, discussions about domestic violence and trauma

In this episode, Kristi speaks with Kate Fylan who has over 20 years experience with a Diploma in Social Worker, a qualified Counsellor and Play Therapist, primarily working within in the domestic violence, childhood sexual abuse and harmful sexualised behaviours spaces and portfolios.

Kate offers an interesting viewpoint around gendered based parenting, coercive control, domestic violence, how to have conversations with your kids around these topics and repair your relationships with your children when we make mistakes. 

This is a great conversation for p...

CONTENT WARNING - Talk of child sexual abuse, intra-familial abuse, control and manipulation

In this episode, Kristi speaks with Deb Aldrick, Author, Survivor Advocate and Lived Experience Speaker about intra-familial abuse or child sexual abuse within the family group. 

Deb wrote the book, 'Circling the Wagons' about the different ways in which families hide and protect abusers with control and manipulation and how it effects survivors. 

This episode breaks down the effect and impacts of child sexual abuse and why the lack of protection and belief within our families often creates greater trauma th...

In this episode, Kristi talks with psychologist, counsellor and social worker Franchesca Isla, principal of Evergreen Therapeutic Services talking about trauma and it's impact on domestic violence both from the side of victims and perpetrators of violence. 

Franchesca talks about her experiences working with men seeking help for their behaviours and how trauma shows up in our behaviours and how it effects our beliefs and it can prevent us in seeking help.

This episode highlights the need to seek help when our behaviours cause harm to ourselves and others and how we can do that. 

Content Warning - talk around child sexual abuse 

In this episode, Kristi talks about child sexual abuse and child safety with survivor, child safety advocate and parent, John Cardamone. 

John shares his own survivor story of child sexual abuse at 6 years old where his perpetrator threatened him and his family to keep it a secret. John's story highlights the importance of body safety education, believing kids and being an approachable parent. 

This podcast episode underlines the 3 important steps of protecting kids and how EVERY parent can keep their kids safe. 

Connect and...

Content Warning - discussions about domestic and family violence, suicide and self-harm

In this episode, Kristi talks with Shannon Miller, a disability and family violence practice leader from the Centre Against Violence, gender-based violence advocate and father about the lack of visibility for children and young people in the conversations around domestic and family violence and gendered based violence. 

During this episode, Kristi and Shannon discuss the lack of consideration of the impacts of family violence on children and young people, the lack of support of children as their own victim in family violence as w...

In this episode, Kristi speaks with veteran Protective Behaviours educator Holly-ann Martin about teaching body safety education to children living with a disability or where english isn't their first language. 

Holly-ann shares a wealth of knowledge on how to simplify the body safety messages to ensure our most vulnerable children understand their body safety rights and education. 

This is a fantastic podcast episode in which even Kristi learnt some valuable and life saving lessons. Be sure to share this episode with your friends and family so that we can all ensure our children, especially those ch...

CONTENT WARNING - Talk about sexual abuse, child sexual abuse and the death of a perpetrator.

In this episode, Kristi talks with author, youth activist, sexual abuse survivor, sexual assault group facilitator and coach, Renee Simpson. 

Renee is the author of the book 'I want to go home' - a book which explores and shares about her trip across the world on a sailing boat, where she sailed through storms, nearly starved from a lack of food and her journey recovering from child sexual abuse and rape.

Renee now facilitates sexual assault support grou...

In this episode, Kristi talks about sleepovers and school camps from her experience as a detective and police officer, as well as a parent. 

There is a lot of pressure on parents from many sources about sleepovers, so it is important that we take the time to consider all risk factors of where your child may be sleeping overnight. 

Kristi breaks down her latest blogs and goes through some of the risk factors, sharing stories that have made her reconsider her stance on both school camps and sleepovers. 

Check out both blogs via www...