Imagine a world where children are put at the centre of conversations during separations and divorces. Imagine the financial savings and improved mental health for everyone involved. This is what happens when we prioritise children’s mental health.

Link here
https://services.coparentingcompanion.au/about

Separation and divorce impact children's brain development, classified as one of the adverse childhood experiences (ACES).

Link here:

https://acestoohigh.com/got-your-ace-score/

However, the impact can be minimized by handling the process in a prepared way with guidance. Many people accept it as a fact that half of all marriages end in divorce, but this applies only to first marriages. Those who wed multiple times face a far higher rate of divorce. In fact, 67% of second marriages end, and 73% of third marriages are dissolved. Having a co-parenting companion is beneficial for every family navigating these statistics.

Tiffany Rochester has two decades of experience supporting separated parents in collaborative co-parenting, I know that separation does not have to be a barrier to creating and sustaining a healthy co-parenting relationship – because I’ve repeatedly guided co-parents to minimise stress and maximise freedom effectively, so you can co-parent with relaxed confidence, focused on enjoying your children and building your new life.

"Too many times, I had parents say to me, I wish I’d met you right at the start. I could have saved so much time and money. We wouldn’t be here now.”

Key Steps to Putting Children First:

Choose Supportive Professionals: Find lawyers and mediators focused on minimal damage and collaborative processes. Winning an argument should not be the goal—minimising harm is.

Early Intervention: Seek support early from experts in child and brain development to navigate turbulent times, ensuring the best long-term outcomes for everyone involved.

Transparent Communication: Children need simple, honest communication about the changes. Plan the initial conversation thoughtfully, considering the first 8 weeks post-separation. Keep it simple and answer only the questions they ask.

Avoid Parental Alienation: Ensure that your actions and words do not alienate the other parent. Encourage a healthy relationship with both parents, maintaining transparency and accountability.

Stories of Great Co-Parenting:

Witnessing collaborative and amicable co-parenting efforts is deeply inspiring. Parents who own their contributions to the relationship breakdown and strive for a cooperative future provide an invaluable legacy of resilience and love for their children.

There is little "winning" in separation and divorce—only minimising harm and fostering a positive legacy. Parents can create a nurturing, supportive environment across two homes by focusing on what's best for the children.

#CoParenting #ChildMentalHealth #DivorceSupport #ParentingAcrossTwoHomes #TiffanyRochester #FamilyWellness #HealthyDivorce #ParentingAdvice

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Have you ever noticed that mental health wards rarely have flowers compared to other wards like those in cancer and children's hospitals? "Glasshouse," a novel by Anne Buist and Graeme Simsion, aims to transform mental health in Australia by highlighting the challenges within mental health services, the experiences of mental health workers, and the patients they strive to help and heal.

The authors take us inside the Menzies Mental Health Service, breaking the silence about the realities of being a mental health worker and raising the conversation about what Australia needs to disrupt and transform mental health prevention and treatment.

I found "Glasshouse" at the airport and finished it when I landed in San Francisco; I couldn't put it down. As Anne and Graeme say, people in glass houses should not throw stones.

Listen to Anne and Graeme discuss their new book, written together. I was able to snag them for an hour while they were on the Great Australian Bookshop Tour, visiting 400 bookshops over four months.

To create an opportunity for change, one must walk in the shoes of all those they are writing about. We discuss their upcoming sequel, introducing their characters to neuroscience, early life experiences, and technology.

We'll know mental health treatment has been transformed when all mental health hospitals and wards are part of architecturally designed buildings filled with paintings and flowers. In these spaces, people are treated as humans undergoing multi-generational experiences. If there is a place where flowers are needed, this is it.

Anne Buist is the Chair of Women’s Mental Health at the University of Melbourne, based at Austin Health, with over 30 years of clinical and research experience in perinatal psychiatry, including directing mother-baby units for much of this time. She co-authored "Glasshouse," a series set in a mental health facility, with Graeme Simsion.

Graeme Simsion is the author of "The Rosie Project" series, which has sold over six million copies in forty-two languages.
https://annebuist.com/
https://graemesimsion.com/home/

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We are at a critical point and coming together is essential. If you feel helpless and struggling with what to do to keep your kids safe online, know you are not alone—many people are suffering in silence- there are many simple things we can do to empower ourselves today to protect our children's mental health and learning how to help your children be seen by us more than screens is one of them. Join us by participating in creating a safer digital future for all of us and, most importantly, our children.

There is an urgent need for a collective effort to reshape how society, tech companies, parents, educators, clinicians, and policymakers prioritise and protect our youngest users in the digital age and ensure that children are SEEN by healthy adults more than screens.

Melanie Pilling has worked in the media for 23 years - first as a journalist writing stories across crime, politics, entertainment and lifestyle to run a major metro newsroom managing over 100 reporters. For the last five years as Deputy Editor of The Courier-Mail and Sunday Mail, I have focussed on our digital transformation resulting in The Courier-Mail becoming the No.1 news subscription website in Queensland


Here's something you can do to empower yourself and to join us:

Please attend the forum "BEING SEEN": Empowering People with Tools to Protect and Promote Children's Mental Health and Safer Digital Lives.

Please mark your calendars and save the date: August 8th, Brisbane,
Stay tuned for more details!
Please register for tickets here: the only cost is your time.

https://console.humanitix.com/console/my-events/6652b21f5d02aa06b8bce5b1

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Welcome to "Self-Care in the Age of Neuroscience and AI," a thought-provoking podcast episode that delves into the innovative ways neuroscience and artificial intelligence are transforming how we approach self-care. Join us as we explore insights and perspectives from students and faculty of the QUT CSB111 class, where we examine the intersection of cutting-edge science and personal well-being.

In our fast-paced world, self-care is no longer just about traditional practices like meditation or exercise. This podcast episode explores how the latest advancements in neuroscience and AI are revolutionizing our understanding and practice of self-care.

1. The Neuroscience of Self-Care:
We'll discuss how neuroscience provides new insights into the brain's role in self-care. How does understanding neural pathways and brain plasticity help us develop more effective self-care routines? From managing stress to enhancing mental health, we'll explore how knowledge of the brain can lead to better self-care practices.

2. AI-Powered Personalization:
Artificial intelligence is enabling a new level of personalized self-care. We'll examine how AI can analyse individual data to recommend tailored self-care strategies. Imagine apps that track your mood, sleep patterns, and physical activity, then suggest specific actions to enhance your well-being based on this data. We'll explore the potential and the challenges of such AI-driven solutions.

3. Ethical and Privacy Concerns:
With the rise of AI in self-care, ethical and privacy issues are paramount. How do we ensure that personal data used by AI is protected? What are the ethical considerations in allowing machines to make recommendations for our mental and physical health? We'll delve into these critical questions with insights from experts in the field.

4. Student and Faculty Perspectives:
Students and faculty from the QUT CSB111 class bring a unique perspective to the discussion. We'll hear about their experiences and thoughts on integrating neuroscience and AI in self-care. What new tools and techniques are being developed in the academic world? How are they applying these innovations in their own lives?

5. Future Trends and Innovations:
What does the future hold for self-care in the age of neuroscience and AI? We'll explore emerging trends and potential breakthroughs that could redefine how we take care of ourselves. The possibilities are exciting and vast, from neurofeedback devices to AI-driven mental health support.

Join us as we navigate the fascinating intersection of cutting-edge science and personal well-being. "Self-Care in the Age of Neuroscience and AI" promises to be a rich source of knowledge and inspiration for anyone interested in the future of self-care. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a science lover, or simply looking to enhance your self-care routine, this podcast offers valuable insights and practical advice to help you thrive in the modern world.

Special Acknowledgements to
First year student at QUT Mackenzie Park for participating in the conversation.
Faculty Ev Miroshnichenko and Pharmacy Discipline Lead Dr Andrew Hale for contributing their ideas to the podcast.

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"Empowering women through financial independence is not just about money—it's about choice, freedom, and reshaping our world for generations to come."

Listen to Dr. Nora Koslowski and Ellen Sullivan are the visionary co-founders of EVEN, an innovative startup dedicated to empowering women by accelerating their economic potential. Drawing on their extensive backgrounds in workforce development, business education, and online learning, Nora and Ellen have created a platform that addresses women's unique challenges in the workforce.

Founding EVEN: A Mission to Balance the Scales EVEN was born from Nora and Ellen's realisation that despite the advances in professional education and career opportunities, women still face significant hurdles due to uneven caring responsibilities, financial burdens, and health decisions. This led them to leverage their combined decades of experience at Melbourne Business School and other educational initiatives to create a tailored solution for women.

Dr. Nora Koslowski: With a robust academic foundation in psychology and management, Nora has educated thousands across multiple countries. Her role as Melbourne Business School’s inaugural Chief Learning Innovation Officer and her personal experiences as a mother have given her deep insights into the needs and challenges of professional women. Ellen Sullivan: A trailblazer in business education, Ellen has developed first-of-their-kind learning platforms and programs, significantly impacting over 15,000 learners globally. Her creative and innovative approach comes from a rich design background and her work with top-tier clients like Google and ANZ Bank.

EVEN's Strategic Approach Under the leadership of Nora and Ellen, EVEN seeks to provide women with flexible and impactful professional development opportunities that do not force them to choose between career growth and personal life. Their approach includes forming strategic partnerships with businesses to address skill gaps, strengthen leadership pipelines, and adapt to the rapid pace of global change.

Join the movement with EVEN, where women's success is not just a possibility but a guaranteed outcome. All while balancing personal commitments and professional growth, Nora and Ellen's journey with EVEN is not just about making a difference—it’s about creating a new equilibrium where everyone wins.

Learn more:

https://www.even-careers.com/about

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I am so excited to interview Cat Bohannon about her New York Times bestseller book Eve, How The Female Body Drove 200 Million Years of Human Evolution.

It is recognised as Foyle's Non-Fiction Book of the Year 2023 and is a groundbreaking exploration into the female side of human biology and history, long overlooked by scientific inquiry. Delving into provocative questions—such as the roles wet nurses have played in the development of civilizations, the inherent strength of women, the evolutionary benefits of sexism, and the complex relationship between motherhood and biology—Bohannon offers a comprehensive review of female biological development over the past 200 million years.

In Eve, Bohannon uses her incisive intelligence and engaging narrative style to challenge and expand our understanding of human history. She provides a crucial reevaluation that shifts focus away from male-centric studies, presenting compelling evidence on topics ranging from how modern C-sections are impacting the evolutionary shape of women’s pelvises to the unexpected biochemical kinship between pus and breast milk. Her research not only revises but also enriches our understanding of why Homo sapiens have thrived, influencing everything from tool use and urban development to language.

This book has been celebrated as a critical and urgent amendment to our historical narrative, earning accolades such as being longlisted for Blackwell's Non-Fiction Book of the Year 2023, and named a best book by The Guardian, Telegraph, and Prospect in 2023. Eve promises to transform your perspective on evolution and the pivotal role of the female body in the success of our species.

https://www.catbohannon.com/
https://www.penguin.com.au/books/eve-9781529156171

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At the heart of Ubuntu lies a deeply moving philosophy from Africa, one that weaves the very fabric of our shared humanity into a single, vibrant tapestry. This philosophy teaches us a simple, yet profound truth: "I am because we are."

It's a reminder that none of us exists in isolation. Our lives, our successes, and our challenges are deeply interconnected with those of others around us. Ubuntu invites us to look beyond our individual selves and recognize that our collective well-being is fundamentally linked to the happiness and health of our community.

KELLIE HACKNEY, Author, Chapter called INTERWOVEN Shared Stories, Shared Humanity

FAMILY SERVICES LEADER, The Canopy. The Canopy is a non-profit organisation that provides multiple services for families, children and the community, including managing a number of community centres and halls. The Canopy operates its administration from Cameron Park Community Centre but services extend throughout the Lake Macquarie and Newcastle regions.

https://thecanopy.org.au/

Kellie Hackney's life is a profound narrative of resilience and hope. She writes “As I close my eyes and think of ubuntu—I am because of who we are—I envisage a beautiful woven tapestry. A work in progress, a reflection of our journeys and a witness to the journeys we share together”

Overcoming early adversity, including addiction and mental health struggles, she transformed her pain through connection, belonging, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge and light. Her recovery, supported by loved ones and professionals, exemplifies the power of healing and the beauty of rewriting one's story amidst life's challenges.

This principle doesn't just highlight our interconnectedness; it also underscores the immense power of belief in change and the magic of new beginnings. Ubuntu suggests that when we acknowledge our shared humanity and act with compassion and empathy towards others, we unlock the potential for profound transformation—not just within ourselves, but within our communities and the world at large.

Embracing Ubuntu means embracing the belief that change is possible and that a different, more hopeful outcome awaits us all. It teaches us that through unity, support, and mutual understanding, we can overcome obstacles and move beyond our current limitations. This belief in the power of collective action and shared purpose is what fuels new beginnings and drives us towards a brighter, more inclusive future.

In essence, Ubuntu is a call to action—a call to stand together, to believe in our collective power to effect change, and to embark on the journey of new beginnings with open hearts and minds. It's a reminder that in the grand tapestry of life, each thread is vital, each contribution matters, and together, we can weave a story of hope, resilience, and enduring humanity.

"Sacred Promise: An Anthology," curated by Dr. Tererai Trent and endorsed by Elizabeth Gilbert unites diverse voices sharing personal stories and commitments to themselves, exploring life's essence, challenges, and the pursuit of purpose. This anthology, praised for empowering women to aim higher, is an invitation to reflect on the promises we make to ourselves, urging readers towards self-discovery, empowerment, and collective change.
https://www.amazon.com/Sacred-Promise-Dr-Tererai-Trent-ebook/dp/B0B54ZSJRF
https://thecanopy.org.au/

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"When I ask 16-21 year olds what they wish their parents had known about social media, they say, number one, don’t give us phones and social media too young."

- Children's Commissioner for England, Rachel De Souza

As the first smartphone generation hits adulthood, they are reflecting on their lost wonder years, a precious period of their lives they can never get back. Too many of them regret a childhood wasted on screens and they wish their parents had set firmer boundaries.

Let's not repeat the mistake with the next generation.

Delay smartphones, delay social media, join the Heads Up Alliance family and secure for your younger children the gift of a full childhood.

eSafety Commissioner

Children's Commissioner for England

We dive into the heart of the HeadsUp Alliance, co-founded by Dany Elachi a burgeoning movement among Australian families committed to rethinking the role of technology in their children's lives. With the digital age advancing rapidly, these families have chosen a path less traveled, delaying the introduction of social media and smartphones to their children's daily routines.

Join us as we explore the philosophy and motivations behind the HeadsUp Alliance.

Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply interested in the intersection of technology and child development, this episode offers valuable insights into a community that's choosing to press pause on the digital rush, prioritizing real-world experiences and connections for the next generation.

Tune in to learn how the HeadsUp Alliance is making waves in Australia and potentially setting a new standard for children's digital consumption worldwide.

https://www.facebook.com/TheHeadsUpAlliance/

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