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Raising Kind Minds

Kathryn Lovewell and Liz Walker

Raising Kind Minds asks: What sort of voice will your child grow up with?

Because every word they say to themselves begins with what they hear from others.

Hosted by Kathryn Lovewell and Liz Walker of Kind Mind Academy, this podcast helps parents, carers, and educators shape the inner voices of the next generation and strengthen their own along the way. When we nurture a child’s inner voice to be kind, we equip them with the skills to navigate and cope with friendship fires, playground dramas, teenage storms, exam pressures, social media influence, and all the challenges of modern life with confidence and calm.

Each episode blends expert insights, real‑life stories, and practical mindfulness and self‑compassion tools to help adults learn and model healthy self‑talk, soothe their inner critic, and guide children to do the same. Grounded in evidence‑based methods from Mindful Self‑Compassion, positive psychology, and neuroscience, Raising Kind Minds is your invitation to think kinder, feel stronger, and raise children who are happy in their own skin.


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  • 54 episodes
  • a few times a week
  • Avg 38 min
  • English

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  • Monday · 30 min

    #18.1 | Graham Allcott - How to Say NO to Kids (Without Guilt) with Graham Allcot

    THE INTERVIEW Parenting rarely goes exactly to plan, but finding the beauty in the unexpected is where the magic happens. We sit down with the author of Kind to explore what raising a child with a unique chromosomal disorder has taught him about true connection. We unpack why the ultimate goal for children is not independence, but interdependence, and how to set firm boundaries while meeting resistance with deep empathy. Discover honest insights on 50/50 co-parenting, navigating medical complexities, and why looking after your own mindset shifts you from scarcity to abundance. Learn why clear is always kind, how to offer a loving no, and why our main job might simply be protecting the inherent kindness children are already born with. Key Takeaways Self-kindness rewires the brain from scarcity to abundance, allowing you to give more freely to others. True success in raising children is fostering interdependence rather than fierce independence. Children thrive on clarity, making firm but empathetic boundaries a profound act of kindness. When offering a firm no, establish the rule clearly but meet the disappointment with genuine empathy. Children are inherently kind; a parent's role is to be a secure, present base that protects that nature. Quotes "When you look after yourself, what you do is you rewire your brain away from scarcity and towards abundance." "The highest form is not actually independence. It's interdependence." "You establish the boundary and then you meet it with empathy." "We all have stuff to teach as well as stuff to learn. We all have stuff to give as well as stuff that we need." "Perhaps our job isn't so much to teach kindness as to protect it." Chapters Meeting a Vessel for Kindness Why Self-Kindness Rewires the Brain The Myth of Independence Welcome to Holland: Shifting Expectations Clear is Kind: Setting Boundaries Saying No with Empathy Navigating 50/50 Co-Parenting Protecting Inherent Kindness Raising Kind Minds is the podcast for parents, carers and educators who want their children to grow up with a kind inner voice. Hosted by Kathryn Lovewell and Liz Walker of Kind Mind Academy. RaisingKindMindsPodcast.com #InnerCritic #SelfCompassion #Parenting TAKE THE SELF-KINDNESS QUIZ https://kindmindacademy.com/kq-rkm HOW TO CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST https://www.grahamallcott.com/ Rev up for the week - https://www.grahamallcott.com/signup https://uk.linkedin.com/in/grahamallcott HOW TO CONNECT WITH YOUR HOSTS https://RaisingKindMindsPodcast.com https://KindMindAcademy.com https://TheBoosterWay.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/KathrynLovewell https://www.linkedin.com/in/LizWalker8 CONNECT WITH RKM ON SOCIALS https://www.facebook.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.instagram.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.youtube.com/@raisingkindmindspodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@RaisingKindMindsPodcast HOST BIOS Kathryn Lovewell is the founder of Kind Mind Academy, an award-winning international speaker and best-selling author specialising in Self-Compassion. A Senior Certified Mindful Self-Compassion Teacher and creator of The Booster Way®, she has spent over a decade helping adults, families, and educators transform self-criticism into confidence and self-trust. Kathryn blends science, storytelling, and humour to make personal growth relatable, and accessible. She’s real, she’s been there, and she’s passionate about helping people stop beating themselves up and start living happier, kinder lives. Grounded, heartfelt, and a little mischievous, Kathryn believes laughter and compassion are equally powerful medicine. Liz Walker is the co-founder of Kind Mind Academy and co-host of Raising Kind Minds. Known for her warmth, humour, and emotional intelligence, Liz brings genuine humanity to every conversation. With decades of experience in business, personal development and client care, she pairs practical wisdom with deep compassion. Liz doesn’t do hype; she believes real change begins with honesty, kindness, and a good laugh at ourselves now and then. She is passionate about helping people feel seen, safe, and supported as they learn to lead their lives with more self-belief and joy. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

  • Friday · 14 min

    #17.3 | From Crusher to Booster: A Gentle Meditation to Make Peace with Your Inner Critic

    THE MEDITATION Give your mind a moment to rest and discover a softer way to speak to yourself. Today's guided meditation offers a gentle space to pause, breathe, and meet your inner critic with unexpected compassion. We often try to fight the harsh voice inside - the one we might call the "Crusher" - but this practice invites you to simply set it down. Guided by Kathryn Lovewell, you will explore how to welcome a kinder, more supportive "Booster" voice without forcing anything. Whether you are taking a quick break from a busy day or winding down, this short practice is an invitation to take small, baby steps toward kindness and self-compassion. You only need to be here, exactly as you are, and let the quiet moments do the heavy lifting. KEY TAKEAWAYS The critical inner voice is often just trying to offer protection in its own clumsy way. Nurturing self-compassion does not require immediate, drastic changes to your mindset. Taking small, gentle baby steps is more than enough to begin shifting how you speak to yourself. Acknowledging negative thoughts without judgement can reduce their overwhelming power and help you set them aside. Showing kindness to yourself naturally travels into how you speak to the people and little ones around you. BEST MOMENTS "The critical voice inside us isn't the enemy. In its own clumsy way, it's trying to keep us safe." "Your heart doesn't need to open fully today. You only need to let the kind words rest close by." "However sharp its words, it may have been trying to protect you all along." "Kindness has a way of travelling. Into how we speak to the people around us. And to the little ones who are always listening." "It doesn't force its way in. It simply waits. And in its own time the ground softens. And lets it through." HOW KIND IS YOUR INNER VOICE? TAKE THE KINDNESS QUIZ kindmindacademy.com/kq-rkm LINK TO THE INTERVIEW Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3mcBY5BHg6y0NvcGH7YgGi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/17-1-dr-cynthia-phelps-what-your-children-learn-from/id6783327960?i=1000799295430 YouTube Podcasts: https://youtu.be/tMRL8_aQEV0 LINK TO THE CONVERSATION Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3px9NR7brf7UqiRbksNkPK Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/17-2-the-one-question-that-cures-burnout-debrief-on/id6783327960?i=1000799710504 Youtube: https://youtu.be/fa06DnyMvco HOW TO CONNECT WITH YOUR HOSTS https://RaisingKindMindsPodcast.com https://KindMindAcademy.com https://TheBoosterWay.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/KathrynLovewell https://www.linkedin.com/in/LizWalker8 CONNECT WITH RKM ON SOCIALS https://www.facebook.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.instagram.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.youtube.com/@RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@RaisingKindMindsPodcast HOST BIOS Kathryn Lovewell is the founder of Kind Mind Academy, an award-winning international speaker and best-selling author specialising in Self-Compassion. A Senior Certified Mindful Self-Compassion Teacher and creator of The Booster Way®, she has spent over a decade helping adults, families, and educators transform self-criticism into confidence and self-trust. Kathryn blends science, storytelling, and humour to make personal growth relatable, and accessible. She’s real, she’s been there, and she’s passionate about helping people stop beating themselves up and start living happier, kinder lives. Grounded, heartfelt, and a little mischievous, Kathryn believes laughter and compassion are equally powerful medicine. Liz Walker is the co-founder of Kind Mind Academy and co-host of Raising Kind Minds. Known for her warmth, humour, and emotional intelligence, Liz brings genuine humanity to every conversation. With decades of experience in business, personal development and client care, she pairs practical wisdom with deep compassion. Liz doesn’t do hype; she believes real change begins with honesty, kindness, and a good laugh at ourselves now and then. She is passionate about helping people feel seen, safe, and supported as they learn to lead their lives with more self-belief and joy. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

  • November 4 · 28 min

    #17.2 | The One Question That Cures Burnout - Debrief on Dr Cynthia Phelps

    THE CONVERSATION What do you need right now? It sounds like the simplest question in the world, yet it might be the hardest one to answer. We’re constantly looking out for our children, partners, and colleagues, running on empty while ignoring our most basic human needs. Exploring the profound insights of mindful self-compassion from Dr Cynthia Phelps, we unpack why stepping away from the daily rush to just grab a glass of water can be a radical act of self-care. We dive deep into the messy reality of parenting, uncovering what truly lies beneath loud, brash toddler tantrums and teenage frustrations. By softening our judgements and becoming a safe haven for ourselves, we build the resilience needed to support the ones we love. Grab a cup of tea, take a breath, and discover how to finally become your own inner ally. KEY TAKEAWAYS Discovering personal unmet needs often starts by addressing basic physical requirements, like simply drinking a glass of water. Loud, hard emotions in children are frequently just a protective armour hiding softer, vulnerable feelings underneath. Building self-compassion empowers us to stay grounded and rooted when faced with challenging behaviours from others. Seemingly insignificant comments or tiny traumas can create deep internal wounds that linger for years. Offering ourselves grace for parenting blunders allows us to quickly repair mistakes and model resilience. Quotes "It's like learning to be my own best friend, knowing that I've got my own back." "We take action. It's not just, oh, there, there, which might be sympathy... Compassion is, let me actually, I am moved to take action." "Underneath that hard is that softer, the underbelly that is often hidden that is really hurting." "They will make meaning out of what they make meaning. You know, if they get chosen for the swim team or not, what will that mean?" "We cannot put our children in cotton wool and try and consider every challenge and upset that they could navigate." CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - The Hardest Simple Question 02:15 - Discovering the Inner Ally 06:30 - Running on Empty and Basic Needs 11:45 - Lifting the Hood on Hard Emotions 18:20 - Navigating Tiny Traumas 24:10 - The Magic of Self-Compassion TAKE THE SELF-KINDNESS QUIZ kindmindacademy.com/kq-rkm LINK TO THE INTERVIEW Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3mcBY5BHg6y0NvcGH7YgGi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/17-1-dr-cynthia-phelps-what-your-children-learn-from/id6783327960?i=1000799295430 YouTube Podcasts: https://youtu.be/tMRL8_aQEV0 HOW TO GET YOUR COPY OF ‘LOVING THE ME I SEE’ https://kindmindacademy.com/RKM-LTMIS HOW TO CONNECT WITH YOUR HOSTS https://RaisingKindMindsPodcast.com https://KindMindAcademy.com https://TheBoosterWay.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/KathrynLovewell https://www.linkedin.com/in/LizWalker8 CONNECT WITH RKM ON SOCIALS https://www.facebook.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.instagram.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.youtube.com/@raisingkindmindspodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@RaisingKindMindsPodcast HOST BIOS Kathryn Lovewell is the founder of Kind Mind Academy, an award-winning international speaker and best-selling author specialising in Self-Compassion. A Senior Certified Mindful Self-Compassion Teacher and creator of The Booster Way®, she has spent over a decade helping adults, families, and educators transform self-criticism into confidence and self-trust. Kathryn blends science, storytelling, and humour to make personal growth relatable, and accessible. She’s real, she’s been there, and she’s passionate about helping people stop beating themselves up and start living happier, kinder lives. Grounded, heartfelt, and a little mischievous, Kathryn believes laughter and compassion are equally powerful medicine. Liz Walker is the co-founder of Kind Mind Academy and co-host of Raising Kind Minds. Known for her warmth, humour, and emotional intelligence, Liz brings genuine humanity to every conversation. With decades of experience in business, personal development and client care, she pairs practical wisdom with deep compassion. Liz doesn’t do hype; she believes real change begins with honesty, kindness, and a good laugh at ourselves now and then. She is passionate about helping people feel seen, safe, and supported as they learn to lead their lives with more self-belief and joy. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

  • November 2 · 1 hr

    #17.1 | Dr Cynthia Phelps - What Your Children Learn From How You Talk to Yourself

    THE INTERVIEW What did you say to yourself the last time you made a mistake in front of your child? If your inner critic is harsh, critical or downright mean, you’re far from alone. Dr Cynthia Phelps joins Kathryn Lovewell and Liz Walker to talk about where that inner critic comes from, why it’s trying to keep you safe in all the wrong ways, and how you can gently teach it a kinder way to speak. Cynthia spent more than 20 years building technology to help people learn, heal and change. Then a hard time in her own life showed her just how harsh her own inner voice had become. Finding self-compassion changed the way she speaks to herself, and she now helps others do the same through her company, Inner Ally. You’ll hear how children pick up the way we talk to ourselves, how to quieten negative self-talk with kind words your inner critic won’t argue with, and a simple breathing practice for when everything feels too much. Key Takeaways Your inner critic is trying to protect you. It wants to keep you safe, especially around other people, but the way it goes about it hurts. Self-talk is caught, not taught. Children pick up how we speak to ourselves. Cynthia caught her harsh inner voice from hearing her mum put herself down. Soften the words until they feel right. If “I am worthy” feels false, try “May I be worthy”, or “May I give myself permission to feel worthy in this moment”. Calm your body first. Put a hand on your chest and take three slow breaths out to settle yourself before you try anything else. Kindness can be fierce too. Sometimes it’s a cuddle and a rest, and sometimes it’s the kind push to get up and get going. It can stop with you. The way we talk to ourselves can run in families, and anyone can be the one who changes it. Quotes “The inner critic is really wonderful because it wants the best for us, it wants to keep us safe, but its methods are terrible.” “There you are again, trying to keep me safe. Thank you.” “When we suffer on the inside, that spreads out through our whole lives and to the people we love.” “Awareness is the door that opens everything.” “The only negative side effect in the beginning is that it’s going to feel weird and awkward. And we can do weird and awkward.” Raising Kind Minds is the podcast for parents, carers and educators who want their children to grow up with a kind inner voice. Hosted by Kathryn Lovewell and Liz Walker of Kind Mind Academy.RaisingKindMindsPodcast.com #InnerCritic #SelfCompassion #Parenting Chapter names, in transcript order Your inner voice when you make a mistake How Cynthia found self-compassion Does everyone have an inner voice? How children pick up the way we talk to ourselves What is the inner critic? Why is it so mean? The ways we numb the pain Making friends with your inner critic Softening the words: “May I be worthy” Is self-compassion letting yourself off the hook? When to get extra help A quick breathing practice to calm your body Can it run in families? Where to find Cynthia Chapters 00:00 – Welcome to Raising Kind Minds 01:30 – Dr Cynthia's Journey: Neuroscience, Crisis & Recovery 04:15 – What Is the Inner Voice and Does Everyone Have One? 08:50 – Cultural Messages, Family Lines, and Childhood Models 12:30 – Understanding the Inner Critic: Protection vs Bullying 17:10 – The Impact of Childhood Trauma (ACEs) on Self-Talk 21:40 – Numbing Pain vs Healthy Emotional Management 25:15 – Training the Brain: How to Soften Critical Language 30:00 – Fierce vs Nurturing Compassion: Setting Boundaries 34:20 – Quick Somatic Reset: A 3-Breath Technique to Calm Down 38:50 – Breaking the Lineage: Interrupting Emotional Inheritance 42:10 – How to Connect with Dr Cynthia Phelps TAKE THE SELF-KINDNESS QUIZ http://kindmindacademy.com/kq-rkm HOW TO CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthialynnphelps/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/InnerAllies/ HOW TO CONNECT WITH YOUR HOSTS https://RaisingKindMindsPodcast.com https://KindMindAcademy.com https://TheBoosterWay.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/KathrynLovewell https://www.linkedin.com/in/LizWalker8 CONNECT WITH RKM ON SOCIALS https://www.facebook.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.instagram.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.youtube.com/@raisingkindmindspodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@RaisingKindMindsPodcast HOST BIOS Kathryn Lovewell is the founder of Kind Mind Academy, an award-winning international speaker and best-selling author specialising in Self-Compassion. A Senior Certified Mindful Self-Compassion Teacher and creator of The Booster Way®, she has spent over a decade helping adults, families, and educators transform self-criticism into confidence and self-trust. Kathryn blends science, storytelling, and humour to make personal growth relatable, and accessible. She’s real, she’s been there, and she’s passionate about helping people stop beating themselves up and start living happier, kinder lives. Grounded, heartfelt, and a little mischievous, Kathryn believes laughter and compassion are equally powerful medicine. Liz Walker is the co-founder of Kind Mind Academy and co-host of Raising Kind Minds. Known for her warmth, humour, and emotional intelligence, Liz brings genuine humanity to every conversation. With decades of experience in business, personal development and client care, she pairs practical wisdom with deep compassion. Liz doesn’t do hype; she believes real change begins with honesty, kindness, and a good laugh at ourselves now and then. She is passionate about helping people feel seen, safe, and supported as they learn to lead their lives with more self-belief and joy. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

  • October 30 · 21 min

    #16.3 | A Guided Meditation for Parents Who Feel They’re Not Doing Enough

    THE MEDITATION Ever been in the room with your child while your mind is three rooms ahead? In this guided meditation, Kathryn Lovewell welcomes you in and Lovely Liz takes you through a gentle practice of coming home to yourself. It’s inspired by this week’s interview with Aysha Jamall, who reminded us that the greatest gift you can give your child is your loving, connected presence. And that starts with finding it in yourself. You don’t need to have heard the interview to join in. Find somewhere comfortable, sitting or lying down. Liz invites you to notice where you’re held and supported, rest a hand on your heart, and soften the voice that says you should be doing more. Then you bring to mind someone you love and notice what it feels like to turn towards them, calm and steady. You are not failing. You are human. And you are doing your best. KEY TAKEAWAYS Presence Starts Within: Offering a connected presence to your children requires first taking time to pause, arrive, and connect with yourself. Self-Compassion in Parenting: Acknowledging that parenting is challenging helps soften self-criticism and release unrealistic expectations of perfection. Physical Anchoring: Simple physical practices - such as placing a hand over your heart or dropping your shoulders - help ground the mind and ease stored tension. Reframing Self-Doubt: The persistent inner voice pushing you to do more often stems from a deep desire to care for your family, rather than actual failure. Modelling Grounded Calm: Cultivating a steady inner environment enables you to offer a steady, warm, and attentive presence to the people you love most. BEST MOMENTS "The greatest gift you can give your child is your loving connected presence." "Before we can offer this presence to the children in our lives, we have to find it in ourselves first." "You don't need to be anywhere else... You're allowed to simply be here." "You are not failing. You are human, and you're doing your best." "A kind inner voice begins with the one you use towards yourself." HOW KIND IS YOUR INNER VOICE? TAKE THE KINDNESS QUIZ kindmindacademy.com/kq-rkm LINK TO THE INTERVIEW Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6kioKtWxmJaQeU2T2vZut2 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/16-1-aysha-jamall-stop-raising-spectators-how-your/id6783327960?i=1000798085757 Youtube: https://youtu.be/h41K9fiRP3E LINK TO THE CONVERSATION Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0N2tD29Hwz4i7iLOjDxUFl Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/16-2-the-banana-boat-theory-of-parenting/id6783327960?i=1000798441151 Youtube: https://studio.youtube.com/video/RNsY6f4h-Xs/edit HOW TO CONNECT WITH YOUR HOSTS https://RaisingKindMindsPodcast.com https://KindMindAcademy.com https://TheBoosterWay.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/KathrynLovewell https://www.linkedin.com/in/LizWalker8 CONNECT WITH RKM ON SOCIALS https://www.facebook.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.instagram.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.youtube.com/@RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@RaisingKindMindsPodcast HOST BIOS Kathryn Lovewell is the founder of Kind Mind Academy, an award-winning international speaker and best-selling author specialising in Self-Compassion. A Senior Certified Mindful Self-Compassion Teacher and creator of The Booster Way®, she has spent over a decade helping adults, families, and educators transform self-criticism into confidence and self-trust. Kathryn blends science, storytelling, and humour to make personal growth relatable, and accessible. She’s real, she’s been there, and she’s passionate about helping people stop beating themselves up and start living happier, kinder lives. Grounded, heartfelt, and a little mischievous, Kathryn believes laughter and compassion are equally powerful medicine. Liz Walker is the co-founder of Kind Mind Academy and co-host of Raising Kind Minds. Known for her warmth, humour, and emotional intelligence, Liz brings genuine humanity to every conversation. With decades of experience in business, personal development and client care, she pairs practical wisdom with deep compassion. Liz doesn’t do hype; she believes real change begins with honesty, kindness, and a good laugh at ourselves now and then. She is passionate about helping people feel seen, safe, and supported as they learn to lead their lives with more self-belief and joy. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

  • October 28 · 30 min

    #16.2 | The ‘Banana Boat’ Theory of Parenting Explained - Debrief on Aysha Jamall

    THE CONVERSATION Parenting can often feel like clinging to a runaway banana boat — exhilarating, terrifying, and completely out of control. We explore what it really means to show up with a calm, non-anxious presence for our children in the middle of everyday stress and chaos. We tackle the loud inner critic in our heads, unpack the heavy burden of parental guilt, and reject the unrealistic myth of the perfect parent. By prioritizing self-compassion and genuine connection over polished perfection, we can create a kinder environment for both ourselves and our families. Join us as we reflect on the power of modelling self-care, staying grounded in the present moment, and remembering that small, intentional moments are what truly matter. KEY TAKEAWAYS Modeling Matters: Children absorb how parents respond to life rather than focusing solely on spoken advice or rules. Non-Anxious Presence: Offering a steady, calm presence is one of the most effective ways to reassure and support a child. Taming the Inner Critic: Recognizing self-critical thought patterns helps reduce parental anxiety and prevents judgment from driving family choices. Rejecting Perfectionism: Unrealistic expectations around parenting create unnecessary stress, making self-compassion essential during difficult moments. Intentional Connection: Carving out dedicated, present time with children fosters stronger relationships and lasting emotional support. Quotes "You can't stop the waves, but you can learn how to surf." "To be human is to err." "Your voice today becomes their voice tomorrow." "Quality time, being fully present... that's where connection happens." "Small moments matter. Here's to raising kind minds, starting with your own." CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Welcome to Raising Kind Minds 01:23 – The Reality of Global Parenting Challenges 03:15 – The Banana Boat Metaphor 05:40 – Confronting the Inner Critic 08:10 – Presence, Grandparenting, and Second Chances 11:05 – Overcoming Guilt & Finding Self-Compassion 14:30 – Closing Thoughts & Community Quiz TAKE THE SELF-KINDNESS QUIZ kindmindacademy.com/kq-rkm LINK TO THE INTERVIEW Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6kioKtWxmJaQeU2T2vZut2 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/16-1-aysha-jamall-stop-raising-spectators-how-your/id6783327960?i=1000798085757 YouTube Podcasts: https://youtu.be/h41K9fiRP3E HOW TO GET YOUR COPY OF ‘LOVING THE ME I SEE’ https://kindmindacademy.com/RKM-LTMIS HOW TO CONNECT WITH YOUR HOSTS https://RaisingKindMindsPodcast.com https://KindMindAcademy.com https://TheBoosterWay.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/KathrynLovewell https://www.linkedin.com/in/LizWalker8 CONNECT WITH RKM ON SOCIALS https://www.facebook.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.instagram.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.youtube.com/@raisingkindmindspodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@RaisingKindMindsPodcast HOST BIOS Kathryn Lovewell is the founder of Kind Mind Academy, an award-winning international speaker and best-selling author specialising in Self-Compassion. A Senior Certified Mindful Self-Compassion Teacher and creator of The Booster Way®, she has spent over a decade helping adults, families, and educators transform self-criticism into confidence and self-trust. Kathryn blends science, storytelling, and humour to make personal growth relatable, and accessible. She’s real, she’s been there, and she’s passionate about helping people stop beating themselves up and start living happier, kinder lives. Grounded, heartfelt, and a little mischievous, Kathryn believes laughter and compassion are equally powerful medicine. Liz Walker is the co-founder of Kind Mind Academy and co-host of Raising Kind Minds. Known for her warmth, humour, and emotional intelligence, Liz brings genuine humanity to every conversation. With decades of experience in business, personal development and client care, she pairs practical wisdom with deep compassion. Liz doesn’t do hype; she believes real change begins with honesty, kindness, and a good laugh at ourselves now and then. She is passionate about helping people feel seen, safe, and supported as they learn to lead their lives with more self-belief and joy. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

  • October 26 · 51 min

    #16.1 | Aysha Jamall - Stop Raising Spectators: How Your Behaviour Shapes Your Child’s Inner Voice

    THE INTERVIEW Children aren’t just listening to what we tell them - they are constantly absorbing how we speak to ourselves, manage stress, and show up when life gets overwhelming. Psychotherapist and inclusion pioneer Aysha Jamall shares profound reflections on moving families from isolation to connection and performance to presence. Drawing on over 25 years of supporting vulnerable children, Aysha explores how children internalise parental energy and why offering a non-anxious presence is the ultimate gift. From navigating the heavy inner voice of self-doubt to finding self-compassion across life's banana-boat moments, this conversation offers gentle wisdom on raising children who act rather than merely watch. Key Takeaways Children Learn Through Absorption: Kids copy what they witness daily - from conflict resolution to self-talk - shaping whether they view themselves as active participants or passive spectators. The Gift of Non-Anxious Presence: Regulating personal anxiety is the most powerful tool for helping children feel grounded and secure in uncertain environments. Grandparenting as a Second Chance: Easing parental fear and releasing perfectionism allows for deeper, richer emotional connection and genuine presence. Self-Compassion Reshapes the Inner Voice: Quieting the harsh inner critic starts with accepting that human error is natural and doing the best with available knowledge. Shifting Focus to Strengths: Over-fixating on academic struggle or perceived flaws dims a child's natural abilities; celebrating strengths restores innate confidence. Quotes "I see a difference in the way I approach my grandchildren... it's almost like a second chance to life." "There is no gift more valuable than a non-anxious presence by a parent." "The result of anger is submission... all that is being absorbed and the child learns to be a spectator." "Let them know that it's okay to fall. Let them know that it's okay to rise up again and then fall again." "Unless they become kinder to themselves, how can they give that kindness to their children?" Chapters 00:00 – Welcome to Raising Kind Minds 01:45 – The Relished Role of Being a Grandmother 03:40 – Navigating the Harsh Voice of Mom Guilt 07:15 – The Emotional Landscape of Raising Kids in Karachi 10:40 – Actors vs. Spectators: What Are Our Kids Witnessing? 14:50 – What Happens to a Misunderstood Child's Inner Voice? 19:10 – The Power of a Non-Anxious Presence 23:15 – Embracing Self-Compassion When Parenting Gets Tough 26:50 – A Gentle Message for Every Parent TAKE THE SELF-KINDNESS QUIZ kindmindacademy.com/kq-rkm HOW TO CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST https://www.facebook.com/centreofinclusivecare/ https://cicarepk.com/ https://www.instagram.com/cicarepk/?hl=en HOW TO CONNECT WITH YOUR HOSTS https://RaisingKindMindsPodcast.com https://KindMindAcademy.com https://TheBoosterWay.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/KathrynLovewell https://www.linkedin.com/in/LizWalker8 CONNECT WITH RKM ON SOCIALS https://www.facebook.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.instagram.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.youtube.com/@raisingkindmindspodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@RaisingKindMindsPodcast HOST BIOS Kathryn Lovewell is the founder of Kind Mind Academy, an award-winning international speaker and best-selling author specialising in Self-Compassion. A Senior Certified Mindful Self-Compassion Teacher and creator of The Booster Way®, she has spent over a decade helping adults, families, and educators transform self-criticism into confidence and self-trust. Kathryn blends science, storytelling, and humour to make personal growth relatable, and accessible. She’s real, she’s been there, and she’s passionate about helping people stop beating themselves up and start living happier, kinder lives. Grounded, heartfelt, and a little mischievous, Kathryn believes laughter and compassion are equally powerful medicine. Liz Walker is the co-founder of Kind Mind Academy and co-host of Raising Kind Minds. Known for her warmth, humour, and emotional intelligence, Liz brings genuine humanity to every conversation. With decades of experience in business, personal development and client care, she pairs practical wisdom with deep compassion. Liz doesn’t do hype; she believes real change begins with honesty, kindness, and a good laugh at ourselves now and then. She is passionate about helping people feel seen, safe, and supported as they learn to lead their lives with more self-belief and joy. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

  • October 22 · 17 min

    #15.3 | Speak to Yourself Like Someone You Love: A Guided Meditation

    THE MEDITATION When did you last speak to yourself as gently as you speak to your child? In this short guided meditation, Lovely Liz welcomes you in and Kathryn Lovewell takes you through a few quiet minutes, just for you. It’s inspired by this week’s interview with Mindful Self-Compassion teacher Victoria Brattini, who reminded us that your brain hears what you say to yourself. You don’t need to have heard that episode first. Find somewhere comfortable where you won’t be disturbed. Kathryn invites you to rest a hand somewhere that feels comforting, soften the voice in your head and picture yourself beside moving water. Water doesn’t fight to stay the same shape. It still shapes the world, drop by drop. Drop by drop, breath by breath, you can keep coming back to yourself. KEY TAKEAWAYS Your Brain Listens to Your Inner Voice: The internal tone you use directly impacts your nervous system and emotional well-being. Self-Compassion Is an Ongoing Practice: Rather than a fixed trait, self-compassion is built "drop by drop" through regular, gentle gestures. Physical Touch Anchors Safety: Simple physical actions - like resting a hand on your cheek, over your heart, or holding your own hands - deliver immediate comfort and warmth to the body. Embrace the Fluid Nature of Life: Much like water adjusting to its surroundings without fighting, self-compassion helps us soften and adapt through life's shifting seasons. You Always Belong to Yourself: Returning repeatedly to your breath and a kind voice serves as a grounding reminder that you are your own safe place. BEST MOMENTS "The brain hears what we say to ourselves." "Self-compassion isn't a 'nice to have' concept - it is a practice, drop by drop." "Water does not fight to stay the same shape. It moves, it softens, it adjusts." "Ah, my friend, I'm here. You're safe in this moment. Let yourself rest here for a while." "These little reminders that you belong to yourself." HOW KIND IS YOUR INNER VOICE? TAKE THE KINDNESS QUIZ kindmindacademy.com/kq-rkm LINK TO THE INTERVIEW Spotify: Apple Podcasts: Youtube: LINK TO THE CONVERSATION Spotify: Apple Podcasts: Youtube: HOW TO CONNECT WITH YOUR HOSTS https://RaisingKindMindsPodcast.com https://KindMindAcademy.com https://TheBoosterWay.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/KathrynLovewell https://www.linkedin.com/in/LizWalker8 CONNECT WITH RKM ON SOCIALS https://www.facebook.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.instagram.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.youtube.com/@RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@RaisingKindMindsPodcast HOST BIOS Kathryn Lovewell is the founder of Kind Mind Academy, an award-winning international speaker and best-selling author specialising in Self-Compassion. A Senior Certified Mindful Self-Compassion Teacher and creator of The Booster Way®, she has spent over a decade helping adults, families, and educators transform self-criticism into confidence and self-trust. Kathryn blends science, storytelling, and humour to make personal growth relatable, and accessible. She’s real, she’s been there, and she’s passionate about helping people stop beating themselves up and start living happier, kinder lives. Grounded, heartfelt, and a little mischievous, Kathryn believes laughter and compassion are equally powerful medicine. Liz Walker is the co-founder of Kind Mind Academy and co-host of Raising Kind Minds. Known for her warmth, humour, and emotional intelligence, Liz brings genuine humanity to every conversation. With decades of experience in business, personal development and client care, she pairs practical wisdom with deep compassion. Liz doesn’t do hype; she believes real change begins with honesty, kindness, and a good laugh at ourselves now and then. She is passionate about helping people feel seen, safe, and supported as they learn to lead their lives with more self-belief and joy. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

  • October 20 · 35 min

    #15.2 | Why Traditional Parenting Strategies Stop Working (Do THIS Instead) - Debrief on Victoria Brattini

    THE CONVERSATION What does your child hear in their head when life gets hard? Kathryn Lovewell and Liz Walker look back on their conversation with Victoria Brattini. She is a certified Mindful Self-Compassion teacher, a home educator and the founder of Laguna Meditation. They talk about why being kind to yourself isn’t self-indulgent. It’s what keeps you steady. A hand on your heart or a soft, warm tone of voice calls on the same instinct that calms a crying baby, and it works on grown-ups too. From kitchen meltdowns to listening without jumping in to correct, this is a reassuring reminder that you don’t have to get it right. You just have to meet the moment kindly and begin again. Because your voice today becomes their voice tomorrow. KEY TAKEAWAYS Mindful self-compassion provides a practical structure that gives us permission to be fully human and meet our inner critic with tenderness. Simple self-soothing touch and soft vocalisations activate the parasympathetic nervous system, releasing calming oxytocin and serotonin. Children learn emotional regulation primarily through the compassionate behavior and self-care modelled by adults around them. True resilience comes not from preventing change, but from softening our relationship to life's inevitable shifts and challenges. Compassionate listening without judgment creates a foundation of trust, allowing children to feel safe and fully heard. Quotes "So when we're compassionate, we know that we're suffering... and we're motivated to do something about it." "Mindful self-compassion... gave me permission to be fully human." "These are little things, but they're actually superpowers." "We're not changing our lives; we're changing our relationship to our lives." "Water is soft too, and water can be very powerful." CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Intro: The Inner Voice We Pass On 03:08 – What Mindful Self-Compassion Offers Beyond Meditation 07:31 – Modelling Kindness Across Generations 11:08 – The Science of Soothing Touch and Soft Vocalisations 24:33 – Navigating Messy Parenting Moments with Self-Compassion 39:00 – Compassionate Listening and Supporting the Middle Child 48:09 – Permission to Be Human and Savoring the Chaos 58:02 – Refreshed Takeaways for Raising Kind Minds TAKE THE SELF-KINDNESS QUIZ kindmindacademy.com/kq-rkm LINK TO THE INTERVIEW Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/20fzJ9o8JeHeSgOYfrSJbI Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/15-1-victoria-brattini-3-physical-tricks-to-instantly/id6783327960?i=1000796981401 YouTube Podcasts: https://youtu.be/77b-Be2uUSs HOW TO GET YOUR COPY OF ‘LOVING THE ME I SEE’ https://kindmindacademy.com/RKM-LTMIS HOW TO CONNECT WITH YOUR HOSTS https://RaisingKindMindsPodcast.com https://KindMindAcademy.com https://TheBoosterWay.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/KathrynLovewell https://www.linkedin.com/in/LizWalker8 CONNECT WITH RKM ON SOCIALS https://www.facebook.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.instagram.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.youtube.com/@raisingkindmindspodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@RaisingKindMindsPodcast HOST BIOS Kathryn Lovewell is the founder of Kind Mind Academy, an award-winning international speaker and best-selling author specialising in Self-Compassion. A Senior Certified Mindful Self-Compassion Teacher and creator of The Booster Way®, she has spent over a decade helping adults, families, and educators transform self-criticism into confidence and self-trust. Kathryn blends science, storytelling, and humour to make personal growth relatable, and accessible. She’s real, she’s been there, and she’s passionate about helping people stop beating themselves up and start living happier, kinder lives. Grounded, heartfelt, and a little mischievous, Kathryn believes laughter and compassion are equally powerful medicine. Liz Walker is the co-founder of Kind Mind Academy and co-host of Raising Kind Minds. Known for her warmth, humour, and emotional intelligence, Liz brings genuine humanity to every conversation. With decades of experience in business, personal development and client care, she pairs practical wisdom with deep compassion. Liz doesn’t do hype; she believes real change begins with honesty, kindness, and a good laugh at ourselves now and then. She is passionate about helping people feel seen, safe, and supported as they learn to lead their lives with more self-belief and joy. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

  • October 18 · 1 hr

    #15.1 | Victoria Brattini - 3 Physical Tricks to INSTANTLY Calm Your Nervous System

    THE INTERVIEW What does your child say to themselves when things don’t go their way? Victoria Brattini joins Kathryn Lovewell and Liz Walker for a warm, honest conversation about why being kind to yourself isn’t self-indulgent. Victoria is a certified Mindful Self-Compassion teacher and a mum and grandmother, and she has been meditating for more than 40 years. She shares small things you can do every day to calm yourself when it all gets too much: a gentle touch, a soft voice, just being there. When you feel safer, home feels safer too. And when your children watch you have a hard moment, be kind to yourself and start again, they learn how to do it too. Because your voice today becomes their voice tomorrow. Key Takeaways Self-compassion provides a structured framework that grants permission to be fully human and softens the inner critic. Soothing touch, soft vocalisations, and warmth activate the mammalian caregiving system to calm stress. Children absorb emotional regulation and self-kindness far more through modeled behavior than direct instruction. True resilience comes from shifting our relationship to life's changes rather than trying to prevent change. Compassionate listening without correcting creates a foundation of trust where children feel genuinely heard. Quotes "Compassion is actually a verb. So when we're compassionate, we know that we're suffering... and we're motivated to do something about it." "The act of just stopping and saying, wow, this is really hard... and can I be kind to myself?" "These are little things, but they're actually superpowers... they help us shift out of our stress system and into our mammalian caregiving system." "We're not changing our lives, we're changing our relationship to our lives." "We have a superpower in kindness and care. And just doing that for ourselves lays a foundation for our children." Chapters 02:12 - Welcome Victoria Brattini 03:08 - The Difference Between Meditation and Self-Compassion 11:08 - The Science of Soothing Touch and Nervous System Regulation 19:22 - Bringing Self-Compassion into Everyday Family Life 24:30 - Applying Self-Compassion in Messy Parenting Moments 32:42 - How to Keep Going When You Feel Like You're Failing 38:50 - The Power of Compassionate Listening 45:00 - Navigating the Real Challenges of Raising a Family 53:00 - Where to Connect with Victoria Brattini 58:02 - Wrapping Up with Kathryn and Liz TAKE THE SELF-KINDNESS QUIZ kindmindacademy.com/kq-rkm HOW TO CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST https://www.lagunameditation.com/about https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-brattini-308b9645/ https://www.instagram.com/lagunameditation/ HOW TO CONNECT WITH YOUR HOSTS https://RaisingKindMindsPodcast.com https://KindMindAcademy.com https://TheBoosterWay.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/KathrynLovewell https://www.linkedin.com/in/LizWalker8 CONNECT WITH RKM ON SOCIALS https://www.facebook.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.instagram.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.youtube.com/@raisingkindmindspodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@RaisingKindMindsPodcast HOST BIOS Kathryn Lovewell is the founder of Kind Mind Academy, an award-winning international speaker and best-selling author specialising in Self-Compassion. A Senior Certified Mindful Self-Compassion Teacher and creator of The Booster Way®, she has spent over a decade helping adults, families, and educators transform self-criticism into confidence and self-trust. Kathryn blends science, storytelling, and humour to make personal growth relatable, and accessible. She’s real, she’s been there, and she’s passionate about helping people stop beating themselves up and start living happier, kinder lives. Grounded, heartfelt, and a little mischievous, Kathryn believes laughter and compassion are equally powerful medicine. Liz Walker is the co-founder of Kind Mind Academy and co-host of Raising Kind Minds. Known for her warmth, humour, and emotional intelligence, Liz brings genuine humanity to every conversation. With decades of experience in business, personal development and client care, she pairs practical wisdom with deep compassion. Liz doesn’t do hype; she believes real change begins with honesty, kindness, and a good laugh at ourselves now and then. She is passionate about helping people feel seen, safe, and supported as they learn to lead their lives with more self-belief and joy. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

  • October 15 · 18 min

    #14.3 | Set Your Worries Down: A Gentle Meditation for Parents

    THE MEDITATION When did you last put down everything you’re carrying, even for a moment? In this 16-minute guided meditation, Lovely Liz takes you through what Amy Smythe, The Worry Wizard, calls an exhale moment. It’s the moment you finally set down something you’ve been carrying for far too long. You don’t need to have heard this week’s interview with Amy first. Find somewhere comfortable, sitting or lying down. Liz invites you to notice where your worries sit in your body and offer those places a little warmth. Then you picture yourself beside a strong old tree and set your worries down beneath it, one by one. The earth can hold them for a while. Nothing you set down there is wasted. You don’t have to carry everything. And you don’t have to carry it alone. KEY TAKEAWAYS Embrace the Exhale Moment: Extending your exhale creates physical and emotional room to release accumulated stress and tension. Visualise Unburdening: Giving worries a physical shape or weight makes it easier to practice setting them down beside a grounding symbol, such as an ancient tree. Nothing Set Down Is Wasted: Re-framing set-aside worries as "compost" reminds us that difficult emotions and burdens can nourish future growth rather than remain heavy loads. Offer Yourself Warm Affirmations: Meeting your internal landscape with compassionate phrases like "Hello, lovely" and "You are doing enough" helps soften overthinking and self-criticism. Your Well-Being Matters: Caring for yourself does not take away from those you love; taking time to rest enhances your ability to care for your family. BEST MOMENTS "An exhale moment - that moment when we finally set down something we've been carrying inside, perhaps for far too long." "You don't need to work anything out right now... Simply noticing: I'm carrying quite a lot." "What you set down slowly becomes compost - something rich, something that will nourish the earth. Nothing you set down here is wasted." "Hello, lovely... You're doing enough. You don't have to have all the answers." "You matter in this family too. Your wellbeing matters, your worries matter, and making space to care for yourself is not taking anything away from the people you love." HOW KIND IS YOUR INNER VOICE? TAKE THE KINDNESS QUIZ kindmindacademy.com/kq-rkm LINK TO THE INTERVIEW Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/47T3B6kt6rmrx2gsijD2SV Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/14-1-amy-smythe-your-child-is-carrying-a-worry-they/id6783327960?i=1000795829089 YouTube: https://youtu.be/ZtafcTi3qHE LINK TO THE CONVERSATION Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1N0vTrdbuHmKyCsjyDYUe7 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/14-2-the-invisible-timer-every-parent-is-running/id6783327960?i=1000796219579 YouTube: https://youtu.be/qlV3rNdo7KI HOW TO CONNECT WITH YOUR HOSTS https://RaisingKindMindsPodcast.com https://KindMindAcademy.com https://TheBoosterWay.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/KathrynLovewell https://www.linkedin.com/in/LizWalker8 CONNECT WITH RKM ON SOCIALS https://www.facebook.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.instagram.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.youtube.com/@RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@RaisingKindMindsPodcast HOST BIOS Kathryn Lovewell is the founder of Kind Mind Academy, an award-winning international speaker and best-selling author specialising in Self-Compassion. A Senior Certified Mindful Self-Compassion Teacher and creator of The Booster Way®, she has spent over a decade helping adults, families, and educators transform self-criticism into confidence and self-trust. Kathryn blends science, storytelling, and humour to make personal growth relatable, and accessible. She’s real, she’s been there, and she’s passionate about helping people stop beating themselves up and start living happier, kinder lives. Grounded, heartfelt, and a little mischievous, Kathryn believes laughter and compassion are equally powerful medicine. Liz Walker is the co-founder of Kind Mind Academy and co-host of Raising Kind Minds. Known for her warmth, humour, and emotional intelligence, Liz brings genuine humanity to every conversation. With decades of experience in business, personal development and client care, she pairs practical wisdom with deep compassion. Liz doesn’t do hype; she believes real change begins with honesty, kindness, and a good laugh at ourselves now and then. She is passionate about helping people feel seen, safe, and supported as they learn to lead their lives with more self-belief and joy. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

  • October 13 · 45 min

    #14.2 | The Invisible Timer Every Parent Is Running - Debrief on Amy Smythe

    THE CONVERSATION Do you feel like you’re constantly rushing your child towards the next milestone, only to miss the magic happening right in front of you? This week, Liz and Kathryn sit down for a warm, open-hearted reflection on their recent chat with Amy Smythe. Together, they explore the quiet power of presence, why our nervous system’s energy speaks before we say a word, and how to shrink the “giant ear” that tunes into criticism. From accepting that life isn't a finish line to holding space for "happy-sad" moments, this conversation is an invitation to slow down, drop the self-judgment, and bring a little more kindness into your daily parenting. KEY TAKEAWAYS Energy Precedes Language: Children tune into a parent's nervous system and presence long before words are spoken. Life Isn't a Finish Line: True connection happens when parents stop focusing purely on future goals and choose to savor the present moment. Hold Space for Mixed Feelings: Emotional complexity, like feeling "happy-sad," is entirely natural and worth honoring. Shrink the Critical Ear: Playful visuals can help ease anxiety and allow kids to absorb comforting, positive words. Practice Compassionate Listening: Pausing before jumping in allows children space to feel seen and heard. Quotes "Life is not a finish line... let each moment be enough." "What is the energy I'm exuding and how that will influence a child?" "To strengthen the child, we need to strengthen and support the grownups." "Our job is to be the one that is steady like a tree." "Can we be curious in such a manner that we ask questions, not tell them the answers?" CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Introduction to the Conversation 01:29 - The Power of Loving Connected Presence 08:04 - Supporting Grown-ups to Support Children 15:25 - The Giant Ear & Easing Self-Criticism 20:08 - Understanding "Happy-Sad" & Mixed Emotions 24:36 - Rethinking the Finish Line Analogy 31:54 - Compassionate Listening & The Invisible Timer 40:19 - Weekly Action Takeaways & Wrap-up TAKE THE SELF-KINDNESS QUIZ kindmindacademy.com/kq-rkm LINK TO THE INTERVIEW Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/47T3B6kt6rmrx2gsijD2SV Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/14-1-amy-smythe-your-child-is-carrying-a-worry-they/id6783327960?i=1000795829089 YouTube Podcasts: https://youtu.be/ZtafcTi3qHE HOW TO GET YOUR COPY OF ‘LOVING THE ME I SEE’ https://kindmindacademy.com/RKM-LTMIS HOW TO CONNECT WITH YOUR HOSTS https://RaisingKindMindsPodcast.com https://KindMindAcademy.com https://TheBoosterWay.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/KathrynLovewell https://www.linkedin.com/in/LizWalker8 CONNECT WITH RKM ON SOCIALS https://www.facebook.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.instagram.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.youtube.com/@raisingkindmindspodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@RaisingKindMindsPodcast HOST BIOS Kathryn Lovewell is the founder of Kind Mind Academy, an award-winning international speaker and best-selling author specialising in Self-Compassion. A Senior Certified Mindful Self-Compassion Teacher and creator of The Booster Way®, she has spent over a decade helping adults, families, and educators transform self-criticism into confidence and self-trust. Kathryn blends science, storytelling, and humour to make personal growth relatable, and accessible. She’s real, she’s been there, and she’s passionate about helping people stop beating themselves up and start living happier, kinder lives. Grounded, heartfelt, and a little mischievous, Kathryn believes laughter and compassion are equally powerful medicine. Liz Walker is the co-founder of Kind Mind Academy and co-host of Raising Kind Minds. Known for her warmth, humour, and emotional intelligence, Liz brings genuine humanity to every conversation. With decades of experience in business, personal development and client care, she pairs practical wisdom with deep compassion. Liz doesn’t do hype; she believes real change begins with honesty, kindness, and a good laugh at ourselves now and then. She is passionate about helping people feel seen, safe, and supported as they learn to lead their lives with more self-belief and joy. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

  • October 11 · 1 hr 6 min

    #14.1 | Amy Smythe - Your Child Is Carrying a Worry They Can’t Tell You

    THE INTERVIEW Children carry so much inside long before they find the words to speak. In this comforting conversation with Amy Smythe, accredited psychotherapist and founder of The Worry Wizard, Kathryn and Liz explore how small, everyday moments of connection can ease a child's invisible burdens. Discover why emotional availability matters far more than perfection, how gentle curiosity opens up communication, and how simple tools like storytelling can help children feel safe, seen, and supported through life's everyday struggles. Key Takeaways Presence over Perfection: Children thrive when adults are emotionally available rather than trying to be perfect parents. The Value of "Exhale Moments": Creating tiny moments of safety at home allows children to set down heavy emotional loads. Focus on Connection: Quiet, consistent gestures of care—like a plate with a biscuit—often matter more than demanding immediate conversation. Curiosity Replaces Judgment: Approaching a child's anxiety with gentle curiosity helps them explore feelings without fear. Power of Metaphor: Storytelling and creative play offer safe ways for children to process difficult emotions. Quotes "It's as though they physically set something down, something that they've been carrying for a very long time." "Children don't need perfect parents. What they need is a parent who's emotionally available to them." "Children feel things long before they speak things." "If you can ignite a child's curiosity, in your imagination anything is possible." "Worries are very serious, but looking after them doesn't have to be." Chapters 02:20 – The Origin of The Worry Wizard 03:30 – Creating "Exhale Moments" at Home 08:24 – Emotionally Available vs. Perfect Parenting 14:15 – Reaching Children Beyond Language 21:10 – It’s Okay to Be Sad: Welcoming All Feelings 34:58 – Everyday Micro-Moments of Connection 42:08 – Supporting the Whole Family Unit 59:30 – How Storytelling Helps Children Heal TAKE THE SELF-KINDNESS QUIZ kindmindacademy.com/kq-rkm HOW TO CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST https://www.theworrywizard.com/home https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-worry-wizard-limited https://www.instagram.com/theworrywizard/ HOW TO CONNECT WITH YOUR HOSTS https://RaisingKindMindsPodcast.com https://KindMindAcademy.com https://TheBoosterWay.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/KathrynLovewell https://www.linkedin.com/in/LizWalker8 CONNECT WITH RKM ON SOCIALS https://www.facebook.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.instagram.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.youtube.com/@raisingkindmindspodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@RaisingKindMindsPodcast HOST BIOS Kathryn Lovewell is the founder of Kind Mind Academy, an award-winning international speaker and best-selling author specialising in Self-Compassion. A Senior Certified Mindful Self-Compassion Teacher and creator of The Booster Way®, she has spent over a decade helping adults, families, and educators transform self-criticism into confidence and self-trust. Kathryn blends science, storytelling, and humour to make personal growth relatable, and accessible. She’s real, she’s been there, and she’s passionate about helping people stop beating themselves up and start living happier, kinder lives. Grounded, heartfelt, and a little mischievous, Kathryn believes laughter and compassion are equally powerful medicine. Liz Walker is the co-founder of Kind Mind Academy and co-host of Raising Kind Minds. Known for her warmth, humour, and emotional intelligence, Liz brings genuine humanity to every conversation. With decades of experience in business, personal development and client care, she pairs practical wisdom with deep compassion. Liz doesn’t do hype; she believes real change begins with honesty, kindness, and a good laugh at ourselves now and then. She is passionate about helping people feel seen, safe, and supported as they learn to lead their lives with more self-belief and joy. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

  • October 8 · 18 min

    #13.3 | Stay Steady When Life Gets Hard: A Gentle Grounding Meditation

    In this meditation practice episode, Lovely Liz introduces a calming session led by Kathryn, inspired by recent guest Viv Grant. Viv is a former head teacher, author, artist, and executive coach who has navigated life's demanding terrain with remarkable openness and grace. Drawing from Viv's insights on standing in the "tragic gap"- the space between current hardships and what remains possible - this episode offers listeners a chance to find stillness and uncover waiting inner wisdom. KEY TAKEAWAYS Embrace the "Tragic Gap": Viv Grant discusses standing in the "tragic gap". This is defined as the space between what is hard right now and what might still be possible. Stillness reveals inner wisdom: By allowing ourselves to be still enough, we can access a quiet inner wisdom that is always waiting. Find strength through deep roots: Trees stay rooted through storms because their roots run deep. We can remain connected and steady during uncertain times by reconnecting with our own roots. Welcome worries without judgment: When faced with a worry or weight, you do not need to solve it or push it away. You can gently invite it closer and simply acknowledge it. Prioritize your true needs: It is important to ask what you truly need right now. This means letting go of what is expected of you or what is on your list. BEST MOMENTS "Viv spoke to us about what it means to stay rooted when life becomes difficult." "To notice how a tree stays rooted, not because life is always calm, but because its roots run deep." "Begin by feeling wherever you are sitting or lying, feel the contact between your body and the surface beneath you, the ground receiving you." "Not what is expected of you, not what's on the list, but this version of you, here in this moment, what do you truly need?" "You are precious. You are stardust. There is magic inside of you." TAKE THE SELF-TALK QUIZ kindmindacademy.com/kq-rkm LINK TO THE INTERVIEW Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1TyQYgrKKFWdtSnVgnQxbA Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/13-1-viv-grant-leading-through-crisis-without-losing/id6783327960?i=1000793152253 Youtube: https://youtu.be/FGfCQZZFvFM LINK TO THE CONVERSATION Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/40ScKP2yYav48nwTnlnKvi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/13-2-overcoming-negative-self-talk-and-the-be-strong/id6783327960?i=1000793534819 Youtube: https://youtu.be/xFiHw0sdA2g HOW TO CONNECT WITH YOUR HOSTS https://RaisingKindMindsPodcast.com https://KindMindAcademy.com https://TheBoosterWay.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/KathrynLovewell https://www.linkedin.com/in/LizWalker8 CONNECT WITH RKM ON SOCIALS https://www.facebook.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.instagram.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.youtube.com/@RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@RaisingKindMindsPodcast HOST BIOS Kathryn Lovewell is the founder of Kind Mind Academy, an award-winning international speaker and best-selling author specialising in Self-Compassion. A Senior Certified Mindful Self-Compassion Teacher and creator of The Booster Way®, she has spent over a decade helping adults, families, and educators transform self-criticism into confidence and self-trust. Kathryn blends science, storytelling, and humour to make personal growth relatable, and accessible. She’s real, she’s been there, and she’s passionate about helping people stop beating themselves up and start living happier, kinder lives. Grounded, heartfelt, and a little mischievous, Kathryn believes laughter and compassion are equally powerful medicine. Liz Walker is the co-founder of Kind Mind Academy and co-host of Raising Kind Minds. Known for her warmth, humour, and emotional intelligence, Liz brings genuine humanity to every conversation. With decades of experience in business, personal development and client care, she pairs practical wisdom with deep compassion. Liz doesn’t do hype; she believes real change begins with honesty, kindness, and a good laugh at ourselves now and then. She is passionate about helping people feel seen, safe, and supported as they learn to lead their lives with more self-belief and joy. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

  • October 6 · 32 min

    #13.2 | Overcoming Negative Self-Talk and the ‘Be Strong’ Mask - Debrief on Viv Grant

    THE CONVERSATION Have you ever wondered how a single comment from decades ago can still quietly dictate how you feel about yourself today? In this warm, reflective lounge chat, Liz Walker and Kathryn Lovewell unpack their recent World Teachers Day interview with education leader Viv Grant. Diving deep into the lingering weight of childhood labels and the pressure of holding it all together, they explore how internalised self-criticism shapes both parenting and teaching. Featuring the relatable "fizzy bottle" analogy of emotional pressure, this conversation serves as a gentle reminder to pause, check in with yourself, and embrace self-compassion when life gets overwhelming. KEY TAKEAWAYS Labels Can Become Lifetime Beliefs: Negative comments or systemic labels received in youth can linger as an active inner critic decades later. The "Be Strong" Trap: Masking stress to hold everything together often leads to evening burnout and quiet internal criticism. The Fizzy Bottle Principle: Unexpressed daily micro-stressors accumulate until emotional pressure either explodes or leaks onto loved ones. Presence Over Perfection: Being genuinely present with children—even when energy is low—is more impactful than delivering perfection. The Core Self-Compassion Question: Regularly asking "What do I need right now?" provides a vital pause to restore emotional balance. Quotes "Behind every classroom door is a human being carrying their own story, their own challenges and their own inner voice." "When belief systems are planted in a young person, a child's brain, they can last a lifetime." "Your presence, even if you're functioning at a two out of ten, is enough." "Permission, permission, permission to recognize that inner voice... might be running the show." "Vulnerability is strength, especially in a family environment." CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Welcome to the Lounge 01:44 – The Inner Teenager & Careers Advice 06:23 – Systemic Labels & Failing Schools 12:04 – The "Be Strong" Mask & Teacher Pressure 18:07 – The Fizzy Bottle Analogy 24:00 – Presence Over Perfection 25:51 – Asking "What Do I Need Right Now?" 30:07 – Closing Reflections TAKE THE SELF-KINDNESS QUIZ kindmindacademy.com/kq-rkm GET YOUR COPY OF ‘EVERY TEACHER MATTERS’ https://offers.kindmindacademy.com/etm-offer-rkm LINK TO THE INTERVIEW Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1TyQYgrKKFWdtSnVgnQxbA Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/13-1-viv-grant-leading-through-crisis-without-losing/id6783327960?i=1000793152253 YouTube Podcasts: https://youtu.be/FGfCQZZFvFM HOW TO GET YOUR COPY OF ‘LOVING THE ME I SEE’ https://kindmindacademy.com/RKM-LTMIS HOW TO CONNECT WITH YOUR HOSTS https://RaisingKindMindsPodcast.com https://KindMindAcademy.com https://TheBoosterWay.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/KathrynLovewell https://www.linkedin.com/in/LizWalker8 CONNECT WITH RKM ON SOCIALS https://www.facebook.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.instagram.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.youtube.com/@raisingkindmindspodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@RaisingKindMindsPodcast HOST BIOS Kathryn Lovewell is the founder of Kind Mind Academy, an award-winning international speaker and best-selling author specialising in Self-Compassion. A Senior Certified Mindful Self-Compassion Teacher and creator of The Booster Way®, she has spent over a decade helping adults, families, and educators transform self-criticism into confidence and self-trust. Kathryn blends science, storytelling, and humour to make personal growth relatable, and accessible. She’s real, she’s been there, and she’s passionate about helping people stop beating themselves up and start living happier, kinder lives. Grounded, heartfelt, and a little mischievous, Kathryn believes laughter and compassion are equally powerful medicine. Liz Walker is the co-founder of Kind Mind Academy and co-host of Raising Kind Minds. Known for her warmth, humour, and emotional intelligence, Liz brings genuine humanity to every conversation. With decades of experience in business, personal development and client care, she pairs practical wisdom with deep compassion. Liz doesn’t do hype; she believes real change begins with honesty, kindness, and a good laugh at ourselves now and then. She is passionate about helping people feel seen, safe, and supported as they learn to lead their lives with more self-belief and joy. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

  • October 4 · 1 hr 6 min

    #13.1 | Viv Grant - Leading Through Crisis Without Losing Yourself

    GET YOUR COPY OF 'EVERY TEACHER MATTERS': https://offers.kindmindacademy.com/etm-offer-rkm THE INTERVIEW When life demands everything at once, stepping into leadership can feel like carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders. Viv Grant knows that feeling all too well - from taking on a challenging school turnaround at 31 while pregnant to navigating a life-altering health diagnosis. In this episode, Viv Grant candidly reflects on how early words shaped her inner critic, what happens when the "be strong" persona finally breaks down, and how intuitive art and self-compassion opened a path toward true healing. This is an inviting exploration into pausing, honoring emotional needs, and learning to lead from a place of deep authenticity. Whether balancing family, career, or personal hurdles, this conversation provides a gentle reminder that vulnerability is not a weakness, but a superpower. Key Takeaways Unconscious Labels: Systemic pressure and criticism often get internalised, turning external labels into an internal standard of self-judgment. The "Be Strong" Trap: Relying continuously on a protective, hardened persona leads to emotional suppression and eventual burnout. Power of the Pause: Stepping back to ask "What do I really need right now?" is an essential act of self-preservation, not selfishness. Vulnerability as Strength: Dropping the mask allows for genuine connection, better leadership, and healthier family relationships. Intuitive Expression: Creative outlets like art can bypass rational logic to process deep-seated emotions and support healing. Quotes "It would be, you're not good enough. You're going to have to work really hard to prove to others that you're capable." "I didn't know there was another way of actually being in relationship with myself." "I remember coming back from hospital... and thinking, thinking is not going to get me through this." "Self-care is not a selfish act. Asking ourselves what we need, it's an act of kindness." "Vulnerability can be a super strength, it can be a superpower, because we let people in when we let our guard down." Chapters 00:00 – Celebrating World Teachers Day 02:15 – Leading a School Turnaround at 31 05:51 – The Weight of Systemic Pressure 08:19 – Confronting the Childhood Inner Critic 14:08 – Standing in the Tragic Gap 23:44 – The Turning Point: Dismantling "Be Strong" 34:00 – Finding Healing Through Intuitive Art 48:08 – What Do You Really Need Right Now? TAKE THE KINDNESS QUIZ: kindmindacademy.com/kq-rkm HOW TO CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST https://www.integritycoaching.co.uk https://www.linkedin.com/in/integritycoaching/ https://www.integritycoaching.co.uk/the-book/ https://www.amazon.co.uk/Learning-Walk-Dark-Viv-Grant/dp/1036907864/ HOW TO CONNECT WITH YOUR HOSTS https://RaisingKindMindsPodcast.com https://KindMindAcademy.com https://TheBoosterWay.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/KathrynLovewell https://www.linkedin.com/in/LizWalker8 CONNECT WITH RKM ON SOCIALS https://www.facebook.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.instagram.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.youtube.com/@raisingkindmindspodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@RaisingKindMindsPodcast HOST BIOS Kathryn Lovewell is the founder of Kind Mind Academy, an award-winning international speaker and best-selling author specialising in Self-Compassion. A Senior Certified Mindful Self-Compassion Teacher and creator of The Booster Way®, she has spent over a decade helping adults, families, and educators transform self-criticism into confidence and self-trust. Kathryn blends science, storytelling, and humour to make personal growth relatable, and accessible. She’s real, she’s been there, and she’s passionate about helping people stop beating themselves up and start living happier, kinder lives. Grounded, heartfelt, and a little mischievous, Kathryn believes laughter and compassion are equally powerful medicine. Liz Walker is the co-founder of Kind Mind Academy and co-host of Raising Kind Minds. Known for her warmth, humour, and emotional intelligence, Liz brings genuine humanity to every conversation. With decades of experience in business, personal development and client care, she pairs practical wisdom with deep compassion. Liz doesn’t do hype; she believes real change begins with honesty, kindness, and a good laugh at ourselves now and then. She is passionate about helping people feel seen, safe, and supported as they learn to lead their lives with more self-belief and joy. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

  • #12
    October 1 · 19 min

    #12.3 | Am I Enough?: A Guided Meditation for Parents

    In this episode, Kathryn Lovewell introduces a gentle guided meditation practice led by Lovely Liz, inspired by an insightful conversation with psychologist Gozde Pelivan. The practice centers on nurturing the person at the very heart of the family: you. By turning inward without judgment, acknowledging the quiet struggles of parenting, and practicing physical and verbal self-kindness, parents learn to reshape their homes' emotional climate. KEY TAKEAWAYS You set the emotional climate: How you speak to yourself, treat your body, and honour your emotional needs creates the invisible atmosphere your children grow up inside. Acknowledge hardship without judgment: Simply naming a struggle and telling yourself "this is hard" opens the door to meeting difficult emotions with kindness instead of frustration. Parenting is a shared human experience: Feeling overwhelmed, tired, or doubtful is universal; remembering other parents feel the same way helps dissolve isolation. Aim for 'whole enough' rather than perfect: Families are teams that thrive not on conflict-free perfection, but on members who show up, repair disconnects, and nurture their own wholeness. Self-compassion is foundational: Giving yourself the same grace, warmth, and validation that you naturally offer to those you love is essential for sustaining family well-being. BEST MOMENTS "How we speak to ourselves, how we treat and care for ourselves... become the emotional atmosphere that every child in our care grows up receiving." "When we can see what we're feeling, we can begin to meet it with kindness." "Parenting may be the most common experience in human history, and one of the loneliest to live through." "Teams do not need one person to carry everything. They need everyone to be as whole as they can be—which starts with you." "The most powerful thing we can do for our children might have nothing to do with our children." TAKE THE SELF-TALK QUIZ https://kindmindacademy.com/RKM-SelfTalkQuiz LINK TO THE INTERVIEW Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1aJgGDF4YvduRjbAaCYjNi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/12-1-gozde-pehlivan-why-trying-to-be-the-perfect/id6783327960?i=1000791924243 Youtube: https://youtu.be/C6QyGGVB1To LINK TO THE CONVERSATION Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4H9mcM6XUZvQKoUmmTRBjE Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/12-2-co-parenting-burnout-and-the-myth-of/id6783327960?i=1000792275496 Youtube: https://youtu.be/8mtxKIDAJl0 HOW TO CONNECT WITH YOUR HOSTS https://RaisingKindMindsPodcast.com https://KindMindAcademy.com https://TheBoosterWay.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/KathrynLovewell https://www.linkedin.com/in/LizWalker8 CONNECT WITH RKM ON SOCIALS https://www.facebook.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.instagram.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.youtube.com/@RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@RaisingKindMindsPodcast HOST BIOS Kathryn Lovewell is the founder of Kind Mind Academy, an award-winning international speaker and best-selling author specialising in Self-Compassion. A Senior Certified Mindful Self-Compassion Teacher and creator of The Booster Way®, she has spent over a decade helping adults, families, and educators transform self-criticism into confidence and self-trust. Kathryn blends science, storytelling, and humour to make personal growth relatable, and accessible. She’s real, she’s been there, and she’s passionate about helping people stop beating themselves up and start living happier, kinder lives. Grounded, heartfelt, and a little mischievous, Kathryn believes laughter and compassion are equally powerful medicine. Liz Walker is the co-founder of Kind Mind Academy and co-host of Raising Kind Minds. Known for her warmth, humour, and emotional intelligence, Liz brings genuine humanity to every conversation. With decades of experience in business, personal development and client care, she pairs practical wisdom with deep compassion. Liz doesn’t do hype; she believes real change begins with honesty, kindness, and a good laugh at ourselves now and then. She is passionate about helping people feel seen, safe, and supported as they learn to lead their lives with more self-belief and joy. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

  • September 29 · 36 min

    #12.2 | Co-Parenting, Burnout, and the Myth of the 'Super Parent' - Debrief on Gozde Pehlivan

    THE CONVERSATION Do you feel the crushing pressure to get everything right as a parent? In this heartfelt conversation, we explore what it really means to create an emotionally safe home - and why letting go of perfectionism is the greatest gift we can give our children. From navigating the silent rulebooks passed down through generations to managing co-parenting dynamics and fatigue, we discuss how tiredness often hides the love that’s still very much present. By learning to treat ourselves with greater kindness and turning up the volume on our compassionate inner voice, we show up as calmer, more emotionally available parents. It’s time to drop the expectations, burn the rulebook, and give ourselves the breathing space we deserve. KEY TAKEAWAYS Emotional Availability Over Perfection: Children do not require flawless parents; they thrive when caregivers are self-regulated, present, and emotionally safe. The Importance of the 'Third Parent': The co-parenting unit functions as its own entity, requiring conscious inner work to maintain harmony and prioritize children during transitions. Flexibility Beats Rigidity: Unspoken family "rulebooks" create rigid perfectionism, whereas approaching parenting with curiosity and flexibility reduces inner criticism. Fatigue Can Hide Affection: Exhaustion and sleep deprivation often mask underlying love and connection in relationships, making intentional self-care essential. Self-Compassion Is a Responsibility: Tending to your own emotional needs first creates the necessary space to model calmness and kindness for your children. QUOTES "Our children don't need us to be perfect. They need us to be emotionally available." "Unless we are feeling emotionally safe, unless we are feeling regulated, it's going to be very difficult to model that to a child." "Imperfect families are actually the norm." "Tiredness can hide love and affection... love hasn't gone anywhere, it's just in hiding because of the fatigue." "When we learn to treat ourselves with greater kindness, everybody benefits." CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Welcome to Raising Kind Minds 01:42 – Creating an Emotionally Safe Home 03:20 – Understanding the 'Third Parent' Dynamic 07:10 – Burning the Unspoken Parent Rulebook 10:02 – Rigidity, Perfectionism, and Inner Criticism 16:37 – Practising Self-Compassion Without Guilt 22:40 – Fierce Love and Navigating Parental Overwhelm 28:56 – Reconnecting When Fatigue Hides Love 32:38 – Closing Thoughts & Next Steps TAKE THE SELF-TALK QUIZ https://kindmindacademy.com/RKM-SelfTalkQuiz LINK TO THE INTERVIEW Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1aJgGDF4YvduRjbAaCYjNi Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/12-1-gozde-pehlivan-why-trying-to-be-the-perfect/id6783327960?i=1000791924243 YouTube Podcasts: https://youtu.be/C6QyGGVB1To HOW TO GET YOUR COPY OF ‘LOVING THE ME I SEE’ https://kindmindacademy.com/RKM-LTMIS HOW TO CONNECT WITH YOUR HOSTS https://RaisingKindMindsPodcast.com https://KindMindAcademy.com https://TheBoosterWay.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/KathrynLovewell https://www.linkedin.com/in/LizWalker8 CONNECT WITH RKM ON SOCIALS https://www.facebook.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.instagram.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.youtube.com/@raisingkindmindspodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@RaisingKindMindsPodcast HOST BIOS Kathryn Lovewell is the founder of Kind Mind Academy, an award-winning international speaker and best-selling author specialising in Self-Compassion. A Senior Certified Mindful Self-Compassion Teacher and creator of The Booster Way®, she has spent over a decade helping adults, families, and educators transform self-criticism into confidence and self-trust. Kathryn blends science, storytelling, and humour to make personal growth relatable, and accessible. She’s real, she’s been there, and she’s passionate about helping people stop beating themselves up and start living happier, kinder lives. Grounded, heartfelt, and a little mischievous, Kathryn believes laughter and compassion are equally powerful medicine. Liz Walker is the co-founder of Kind Mind Academy and co-host of Raising Kind Minds. Known for her warmth, humour, and emotional intelligence, Liz brings genuine humanity to every conversation. With decades of experience in business, personal development and client care, she pairs practical wisdom with deep compassion. Liz doesn’t do hype; she believes real change begins with honesty, kindness, and a good laugh at ourselves now and then. She is passionate about helping people feel seen, safe, and supported as they learn to lead their lives with more self-belief and joy. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

  • September 27 · 1 hr 7 min

    #12.1 | Gozde Pehlivan - Why Trying to Be the Perfect Parent Is Exhausting You

    THE INTERVIEW When did we start believing that being a good parent meant being a perfect one? Parenting has a sneaky way of bringing out our harshest inner critics, leaving us exhausted and convinced we are somehow falling short. In this episode of Raising Kind Minds, hosts Liz Walker and Kathryn Lovewell sit down with psychologist and Mindful Self-Compassion teacher Gözde Pehlivan. Together, they explore why children do not need flawless parents - they need adults who can pause, regulate, and extend the same kindness to themselves that they so freely offer to their little ones. From dismantling the "good mother" myth and navigating parental burnout to understanding the dynamic of the couple relationship as a "third parent," this conversation offers a gentle, liberating reminder: caring for yourself is the very best way to support the children you love. Key Takeaways Perfection is a myth: Striving for flawless parenting leads to exhaustion and anxiety, whereas emotional availability and calmness create true safety for children. Children are emotion radars: Kids continuously pick up on subtle non-verbal cues, tone of voice, and underlying relationship dynamics between caregivers. Self-compassion is essential: Taking even a few seconds to pause, place a hand over the heart, and acknowledge difficulty helps regulate the nervous system. The couple dynamic acts as a third parent: The quality of the relationship between caregivers profoundly influences a child's sense of security. Modeling repair over perfection: Showing how to admit mistakes, apologize, and reconnect teaches children invaluable life skills and resilience. Quotes "What if one of the greatest gifts we can give our children isn't a new strategy, a better routine, or even more parenting knowledge?" "We try very hard to be the perfect parents, but perfection is a myth." "Children, they're like emotion radars for me. They just sense everything." "Not perfect, but calm. Not perfect, but regulated. Not perfect, but emotionally available." "Because your voice today becomes their voice tomorrow." Chapters 00:00 – What If Self-Kindness Is the Greatest Gift? 02:35 – How Children Sense Parent Dynamics 06:06 – Unpacking Perfectionism & Self-Criticism 18:45 – Dismantling the "Good Mother" Expectations 27:18 – Simple Ways to Regulate Your Nervous System 31:34 – Making Space for "Me Time" and "Us Time" 46:20 – Navigating Conflict and Disagreement Healthy 52:26 – Supporting Children Through Separation & Co-Parenting 57:42 – The Couple Relationship as the "Third Parent" 01:03:51 – Final Thoughts: Raising Kind Minds Starts with You TAKE THE SELF-TALK QUIZ https://kindmindacademy.com/RKM-SelfTalkQuiz HOW TO CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST https://www.linkedin.com/in/gozde-pehlivan-1650393/ HOW TO CONNECT WITH YOUR HOSTS https://RaisingKindMindsPodcast.com https://KindMindAcademy.com https://TheBoosterWay.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/KathrynLovewell https://www.linkedin.com/in/LizWalker8 CONNECT WITH RKM ON SOCIALS https://www.facebook.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.instagram.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.youtube.com/@raisingkindmindspodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@RaisingKindMindsPodcast HOST BIOS Kathryn Lovewell is the founder of Kind Mind Academy, an award-winning international speaker and best-selling author specialising in Self-Compassion. A Senior Certified Mindful Self-Compassion Teacher and creator of The Booster Way®, she has spent over a decade helping adults, families, and educators transform self-criticism into confidence and self-trust. Kathryn blends science, storytelling, and humour to make personal growth relatable, and accessible. She’s real, she’s been there, and she’s passionate about helping people stop beating themselves up and start living happier, kinder lives. Grounded, heartfelt, and a little mischievous, Kathryn believes laughter and compassion are equally powerful medicine. Liz Walker is the co-founder of Kind Mind Academy and co-host of Raising Kind Minds. Known for her warmth, humour, and emotional intelligence, Liz brings genuine humanity to every conversation. With decades of experience in business, personal development and client care, she pairs practical wisdom with deep compassion. Liz doesn’t do hype; she believes real change begins with honesty, kindness, and a good laugh at ourselves now and then. She is passionate about helping people feel seen, safe, and supported as they learn to lead their lives with more self-belief and joy. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

  • #11
    September 24 · 16 min

    #11.3: Finding the Glimmers: A Guided Meditation for Self-Compassion

    In this practice episode, Liz Walker introduces a gentle guided meditation led by Kathryn Lovewell. Inspired by the interview with guest Haley Cameron, who has dedicated over two decades to holding space for vulnerable children and educators, this practice invites listeners to step away from daily demands, slow down, and offer themselves compassion. KEY TAKEAWAYS Pausing is an Act of Care: Choosing to stop and be still amidst a busy schedule is a powerful step toward self-kindness and emotional recovery. Acknowledge Without Fixing: You can notice and validate your fatigue, worries, and heavy responsibilities without needing to solve or change them in the moment. Seek Out "Glimmers": Glimmers are micro-moments of light, safety, or warmth such as the sound of water, laughter, or the feeling of sunlight—that remain present even during heavy times. Use Physical Self-Soothing: Simple physical gestures, like placing a hand over your heart or holding your own hands, act as tangible expressions of care from you to yourself. Honor Your Humanity: Beneath every role you play—parent, teacher, carer, or friend—you are a human who experiences fatigue and deserves gentleness. BEST MOMENTS "Haley invited us to look for the glimmers—not the big things, not the fixed things, the small moments of light that are always there, even when things are heavy." "Take a moment to notice that you are here... and this, in itself, is an act of care." "There is nothing to fix. I wonder, can you open to the possibility of simply acknowledging this, very gently..." "This is heavy. I'm doing my best. May I be kind to myself in this heaviness." "Underneath all of it, you are fully human... a human who feels tired sometimes, a human who has their own pain, a human who carries a lot." TAKE THE SELF-TALK QUIZ https://kindmindacademy.com/RKM-SelfTalkQuiz LINK TO THE INTERVIEW Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1xYuMkDszrHBB5kyWUCaoa?si=b7034d1fb25748b2 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/11-1-hayley-cameron-protecting-children-comes-at-a/id6783327960?i=1000790846168 Youtube: https://youtu.be/shZnVyjrgak?si=crn1K03hvuZhfd7Z LINK TO THE CONVERSATION Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5wSCAoJqANmLoPkQnkg3JW?si=e1ed8449d88a4d0d Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/11-2-safeguarding-with-heart-why-caring-starts-with/id6783327960?i=1000791250805 Youtube: https://youtu.be/3Fs66RXLm3E?si=dQStuIunycGpylJp HOW TO CONNECT WITH YOUR HOSTS https://RaisingKindMindsPodcast.com https://KindMindAcademy.com https://TheBoosterWay.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/KathrynLovewell https://www.linkedin.com/in/LizWalker8 CONNECT WITH RKM ON SOCIALS https://www.facebook.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.instagram.com/RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.youtube.com/@RaisingKindMindsPodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@RaisingKindMindsPodcast HOST BIOS Kathryn Lovewell is the founder of Kind Mind Academy, an award-winning international speaker and best-selling author specialising in Self-Compassion. A Senior Certified Mindful Self-Compassion Teacher and creator of The Booster Way®, she has spent over a decade helping adults, families, and educators transform self-criticism into confidence and self-trust. Kathryn blends science, storytelling, and humour to make personal growth relatable, and accessible. She’s real, she’s been there, and she’s passionate about helping people stop beating themselves up and start living happier, kinder lives. Grounded, heartfelt, and a little mischievous, Kathryn believes laughter and compassion are equally powerful medicine. Liz Walker is the co-founder of Kind Mind Academy and co-host of Raising Kind Minds. Known for her warmth, humour, and emotional intelligence, Liz brings genuine humanity to every conversation. With decades of experience in business, personal development and client care, she pairs practical wisdom with deep compassion. Liz doesn’t do hype; she believes real change begins with honesty, kindness, and a good laugh at ourselves now and then. She is passionate about helping people feel seen, safe, and supported as they learn to lead their lives with more self-belief and joy. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

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