Growing Hearts Podcast

In this heartwarming and laughter-filled episode, Ponch sits down with two sisters, Lucia "Cia" and Anica, to explore the beautiful (and sometimes chaotic!) reality of growing up in a family of four daughters. Together, they reflect on the shared memories, road trips, dinner table conversations, and life lessons that shaped them.  From pillow forts and Macca's breakfasts to intentional parenting and the power of saying “I'm sorry,” this episode dives deep into how family culture, communication, and individual respect laid the foundation for strong sibling bonds and personal growth.   Whether you're a parent, sibling, or just someone reflecting on your own upbringing, this episode will remind you that the little moments—when approached with love, presence, and intention—are what ultimately form the strongest family ties.    Discussion Points:   How everyday moments like family meals, road trips, and kitchen time can become lasting sources of connection and joy.  Exploring how a home filled with four sisters stayed grounded through open dialogue, mutual support, and intentional parenting.  The normal ups and downs of sibling life, and how choosing to say sorry and forgive quickly helps preserve relationships.  Why it matters when children, especially teen, feel their opinions and feelings are genuinely considered—whether it's choosing a house or navigating social situations.  How doing chores, being relied on, and helping one another builds a sense of ownership and unity within the family.  Celebrating the beauty of unique personalities and different career paths—all nurtured under one roof without comparisons or competition.    Join the Conversation  We'd love to hear from you!  What are some of your favorite childhood memories with your siblings or family? Have you experienced moments when your parents (or you as a parent) made space for dialogue and understanding? How do you encourage individuality while keeping family unity strong? 

In this episode of the Growing Hearts Podcast, we delve into the challenges and opportunities of nurturing faith during the teenage years. Our special guest, Seb James, shares his personal journey and insights from his extensive experience working with teenagers. Seb, a journalist and director of the Nairana Study Centre, discusses the importance of faith, the role of parents and mentors, and how to support teenagers in their spiritual and personal growth.    Discussion Points:  Challenges Teenagers Face Today:  Identity and the need for unconditional love.  Influence of social media, technology, and peer pressure.  Helping young people understand their true identity and worth as children of God.  Role of Parents and Mentors:  Building loving and trusting relationships with teenagers.  Setting boundaries and providing guidance.  Importance of fathers spending quality time with their sons.  Support Systems for Teenagers:  Seb shares the activities and intentional programs offered at Nairana Study Centre, including:  Optimal Work Sessions   Study time   Community Service trips and Local service initiatives   Openness at the Study Centre  Seb acknowledges that some parents may have concerns or questions—and that's a good thing:  “It is okay to have worries and doubts—it is a very natural thing. We want parents to be very concerned; they need to know what we are doing.”  To foster this trust, Nairana organises regular events to engage with parents:  “That's why in these places we have a lot of days or activities where we get parents to come and we try to explain what we are trying to do. For example, at the end of every school term, we have a night where we explain what Opus Dei is (…)”  For families of all backgrounds:  “We believe also, if you are non-Christian or Catholic, that these activities will help your son grow in virtue, become a man of character.”  He warmly invites parents to engage in person:  “If you have doubts or concerns, please come and visit us. I'm very happy to sit and talk.”    Resources Mentioned  Nairana Study Centre  Mirrabooka Study Centre   Optimal Work    Join the Conversation  We'd love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Share your experiences and insights on nurturing faith during the teenage years. How have you supported your teenagers in their spiritual and personal growth? What challenges have you faced, and what strategies have worked for you? Join the conversation on our social media channels or leave a comment on our website.    You can:   Follow us on Instagram @growingheartspodcast   Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website   Discover our schools by visiting: pared.edu.au/openday   Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes  

In this special May episode of the Growing Hearts Podcast, Ponch Sahagun is joined by mum, mentor, and Tangara alumni Tamara El-Rahi for a heartfelt conversation on motherhood. From the unexpected shifts that come with becoming a mum, to the quiet strength and inspiration we can draw from Our Lady, this episode dives deep into the emotional, spiritual, and practical realities of raising children today. Honest, funny, and moving—this conversation is an uplifting companion for mothers navigating the highs and lows of daily life. Video Mentioned: Watch the video about the Wedding Feast at Cana referenced in this episode. Event: A MOTHER'S HEART - A Day of Reflection for Women Join the Conversation  We'd love to hear how motherhood has changed you, what role your faith plays in your daily parenting, or what part of this episode resonated most. 

In this episode, we welcome Matt Unicomb to share his powerful conversion story. From growing up in a secular household to discovering the Catholic faith, Matt takes us through the pivotal moments that led him to embrace Christianity. Through intellectual exploration, deep personal reflection, and the influence of his wife, family, and mentors, Matt's journey is one of humility, truth-seeking, and transformation.  Resources Mentioned:  Ross Douthat's article: A Guide to Finding Faith  St. John Paul II: Veritatis Splendour    Connect with Matt:  Podcast: Human Ecology    You can:   Follow us on Instagram @growingheartspodcast   Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website   Discover our schools by visiting: pared.edu.au/openday   Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes    

In this episode of Growing Hearts, Fr. Paul and Fr. Phil explore the deep connection between a child's relationship with their parents and their understanding of God. They discuss the weight of expectations—how children internalise them, how they shape their sense of self-worth, and how parents can navigate them in a healthy way.  At te heart of the conversation is the theme of hope, inspired by the Jubilee Year's message: A Hope That Does Not Disappoint. The discussion dives into false hopes, the dangers of misplaced expectations, and the true foundation of hope—God's grace.    You can:   Follow us on Instagram @growingheartspodcast   Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website   Discover our schools by visiting: pared.edu.au/openday   Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes    

In this episode, Father Paul and Father Phil dive into a profound and often misunderstood topic—the heart. Drawing from Pope Francis' letter Dilexit nos, they explore what it truly means to have a heart, why it's central to our faith, and how we can help form the hearts of our children. With humour, personal stories, and deep theological insights, our chaplains discuss how the heart is more than just emotions—it's the place where we encounter God.   You can:   Follow us on Instagram @growingheartspodcast   Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website   Discover our schools by visiting: pared.edu.au/openday   Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes    

In this episode, Father Phil Elias, Chaplain of Redfield College, is joined by Father Paul Muller from Tangara. Together, they dive into the season of Lent, exploring its meaning and how we can prepare our hearts for a deeper encounter with Jesus.  They discuss common ideas like give up or offering up things for Lent and how this seasons isn't just about sacrifice but about drawing closer to God. Through personal anecdotes—including Father Paul's love for tennis—they highlight the importance of keeping our focus on Christ, much like keeping an eye on the ball in sports.  Join them as they unpack practical ways to approach fasting, almsgiving, and prayer with joy, ensuring that our Lenten journey leads us to a true transformation of heart.   Other Resources:  Podcast Crash Course Catholicism: Lent and Easter  You can:   Follow us on Instagram @growingheartspodcast   Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website   Discover our schools by visiting: pared.edu.au/openday   Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes  

In this episode, we welcome Dr Andy Mullins to explore the profound meaning of Baptism and its impact on our lives as Christians. Dr Mullins shares his insights on why Baptism is the foundation of our faith journey, the responsibilities it entails for parents, and how we can foster a deeper appreciation of this sacrament in our families. Whether you're a new parent preparing for your child's Baptism or seeking to rekindle your own understanding, this conversation will inspire you to embrace this divine calling with renewed faith and purpose.  Book: Parenting For Faith by Andrew Mullins    You can:   Follow us on Instagram @growingheartspodcast   Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website   Discover our schools by visiting: pared.edu.au/openday   Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes    

As we begin a new year, many of us take time to reflect on what lies ahead. How can we live this year with intention, deepen our faith, and embrace the opportunities God places before us? In this episode, we welcome Jessica Doherty, a wife, mother of six, primary school teacher, and host of the Universal Sisterhood podcast. Jessica shares her personal journey, insights on setting realistic and meaningful goals, and the power of inviting God into our everyday lives. This episode is all about embracing the new year with faith, setting small but meaningful goals, and trusting that God is walking with us every step of the way. Let's thrive in 2025 together!   Word of the year generator: http://www.wordoftheyear.me/ Listen to Jess's Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/universal-sisterhood-podcast/id1387840896 Follow Jess on Instagram: @universalsisterhood_   You can:  Follow us on Instagram @growingheartspodcast  Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website  Discover our schools by visiting: pared.edu.au/openday 

In this episode of Growing Hearts, Claire and John Wall join us to share their experiences, favorite traditions, and insights on keeping Christ at the center of Christmas while managing the busyness of family life with young children. They offer practical tips for blending Catholic traditions with family celebrations, emphasizing ways to encourage generosity, kindness, and a spirit of gratitude throughout the holiday season.  We'd love to hear your Christmas traditions! How do you keep your celebrations Christ-centered? Do you have unique ways of helping your family focus on the true meaning of the season? Share with us on social media with #GrowingHeartsPodcast or send us a message!  Recommended book: God has Made a Bethlehem   You can:   Follow us on Instagram @growingheartspodcast   Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website   Discover our schools by visiting: pared.edu.au/openday   Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes      

In today's episode, we dive into Advent—a season of hope, preparation, and anticipation as we await Christmas. We'll uncover the deeper meaning behind Advent traditions, explore ways to bring them into family life, and discuss how Advent serves as a reminder of the joy and peace that Christ brings. Our guests, Fr. Felix and Fr. Anthony, provide insights on how this season can transform our hearts and help us focus on what truly matters during the holidays.  We'd love to hear how your family celebrates Advent! Do you have any special traditions or ways of preparing your hearts for Christmas? Share your stories, ideas, or questions with us on social media or in the comments. Let's inspire one another with creative ways to keep the focus on the true meaning of this season!    You can:   Follow us on Instagram @growingheartspodcast   Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website   Discover our schools by visiting: pared.edu.au/openday   Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes     

In today's episode, we dive into the powerful theme of service and generosity, exploring what it truly means to go beyond ourselves and why this selflessness is crucial for young people. Joined by Bernie James, a dedicated teacher, community service leader, husband, and father, and Seb Burfitt, a tax advisor, father, and husband, we discuss how encouraging kids to step out of their comfort zones to serve others fosters gratitude, empathy, and a stronger sense of community. It's all about leading by example—starting with us!    The importance of service in today's self-oriented world  Teaching kids the value of stepping out of their comfort zones  Cultivating gratitude and a sense of community through giving  Practical ideas for parents to engage kids in acts of service    You can:   Follow us on Instagram @growingheartspodcast   Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website   Discover our schools by visiting: pared.edu.au/openday   Remember to hit FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes    

In this episode, we address a question many parents face: how to explain the death of a loved one to their children in a way that reflects our Catholic faith. We'll explore the meaning of death, the hope of eternal life, and how parents can offer comforting, faith-filled answers to difficult questions. Join us as we discuss how to turn this sensitive topic into a teaching moment about the love of God, the promise of heaven, and the connection we still share with those who have passed away.    Exploring heaven as a place of no pain, only love, and how children can look forward to being reunited with family.  The reality of purgatory, heaven, and the communion of saints, and how we remain connected with those who have passed.  Practical ways families can honor their loved ones on the Feast of All Souls.  Encouraging children to pray for their deceased family members and understand that they are still spiritually connected.  You can:   Follow us on Instagram @growingheartspodcast   Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website   Discover our schools by visiting: pared.edu.au/openday   Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes    

In this episode, we dive deep into the concept of freedom and its importance in shaping our lives, our children's lives, and their faith journeys. Freedom is often portrayed as the ability to do whatever we want, but true freedom is about making the best choices, using our freedom for good, and navigating the limits and responsibilities that come with it. As children grow into teenagers, they begin to make their own choices, and as parents, we must guide them toward understanding the true essence of freedom. Our guest helps us explore how freedom is tied to compassion, respect for others, and living our faith authentically.   ·     Freedom isn't just the ability to choose anything—it's about choosing what's right and good. How do we teach our children to navigate between good and bad choices, and how can they use their freedom for positive impact? ·      How can parents allow their children to make their own choices while providing enough space for them to take risks? Why is it important to show confidence and trust in their abilities, especially for teenagers? ·    What role does freedom play in living out our faith? How can parents create an environment where faith is joyful and freely chosen, rather than forced, allowing children to make their own decisions in regards to cultivating their faith?   Link Recommendations: Freedom: Raising your children to make meaningful choices   You can:  Follow us on Instagram @growingheartspodcast  Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website  Discover our schools by visiting: pared.edu.au/openday  Remember to hit FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes 

In this episode, Clare Horsfall shares how stories and books can be powerful tools in helping children develop virtues, values, and an understanding of the world beyond themselves. We explore how books help children process emotions, build imagination, and introduce them to beauty, truth, and goodness. This episode is packed with actionable tips for instilling a love of reading and nurturing character through stories. How books help children process emotions and relate to characters' challenges. Why stories are essential for building imagination and fostering a sense of wonder. Practical tips for selecting the right books for different ages and interests. Balancing religious texts with other genres to promote holistic development. How family reading habits can shape a child's values, hope, and sense of compassion.   Recommendations: -  Year 3-5 Reading List - The Little House Series - Children's bible Golden Books - Catholic book store: Cardinal Newman Bookshop   You can:  Follow us on Instagram @growingheartspodcast  Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website  Discover our schools by visiting: pared.edu.au/openday   Remember to hit FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes.  

In this episode, we dive deep into the core of personal identity and how faith can be the bedrock of self-worth, purpose, and authenticity. Join us as Caitlin West shares insights on building an identity rooted in being daughters and sons of God. We explore how parents can model unconditional love and support their children in cultivating a strong personal identity, especially during pivotal life transitions, like leaving school and entering adulthood. Find Caitlin's Podcast and Youtube Channel here! The foundational elements of a strong personal identity rooted in faith. How parents can model unconditional love and create a safe space for their children to grow. The importance of a personal relationship with God for a secure identity. Navigating transitions like finishing school while remaining true to who you are in faith. You can: Follow us on Instagram @growingheartspodcast  Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website  Discover our schools by visiting: pared.edu.au/openday  Remember to hit FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes. 

In this episode, we delve into the heart of the Catholic faith—the Eucharist. For Catholics, the Eucharist is a profound and central mystery, yet it can be challenging to understand its depth and significance. We'll start with the basics, using real-life stories and questions to explore the beauty and miracle of the Eucharist. Join us as we uncover why the Eucharist holds such an essential place in a Catholic's daily life.   The Golden Box (Tabernacle): Exploring why Catholics kneel before the tabernacle and what it signifies. The Real Presence of Jesus: Understanding how and why Jesus chose to remain with us in the form of the Eucharist. How the Eucharist Nourishes Our Lives: Examining the spiritual nourishment the Eucharist provides. Helping Children Understand Eucharistic Reverence: How parents can teach their children the importance of reverence toward the Eucharist. Practical Tips for Fostering a Love for the Eucharist in Your Children: Strategies to increase and sustain your children's love and devotion to the Eucharist.   You can:  Follow us on Instagram @growingheartspodcast  Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website  Discover our schools by visiting: pared.edu.au/openday  Remember to hit FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes 

In this episode, we explore practical ways for parents to integrate faith into their family's daily life. We discuss leading by example, creating a joyful and authentic faith environment, and allowing children the freedom to explore their relationship with God. Our guests share insights from their own journeys and how they've managed to weave faith into the fabric of their family life, highlighting the role of affection, storytelling, and meaningful routines in nurturing a child's faith.  Practical ways to instill faith to your children, such as teaching prayers, sharing faith stories, and encouraging a personal connection with God. Balancing Freedom and Responsibility: Encouraging children to make faith-related choices on their own, helping them develop a personal and responsible relationship with God.  The importance of living out faith authentically, using affection and love to mirror God's love, and incorporating faith into daily family routines.   The guest emphasizes the value of creating faith-based routines like family prayer, meals together, and discussing daily experiences in the light of faith. You can: Follow us on Instagram @growingheartspodcast   Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website   Discover our schools by visiting: pared.edu.au/openday   Remember to hit FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes!        

In this episode, we are joined by Chehade Richa, a father, mentor, and teacher. Together, we delve into how parental reactions influence children's emotional development and worldview. We discuss the significance of consistency and authenticity in parenting to prevent fostering a 'two-faced' nature in kids. Discover how building trust and open communication, along with virtues like charity and patience, can create a nurturing environment for your children.   Parental Reactions as a crucial factor in shaping children's emotional development and worldview.  The importance of being truly present, investing time, and sharing personal stories to build trust.  Integrating virtues, such as charity, patience, and forgiveness into parenting practices to nurture character and resilience in children, balancing love and expectations.     You can:   Follow us on Instagram @growingheartspodcast   Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website   Discover our schools by visiting: pared.edu.au/openday   Remember to hit FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes!        

This episode discusses how families can maintain a positive outlook and see life as an adventure, even in the face of challenges and suffering in the world:  The Chaplains explore how the Catholic faith can help families navigate these issues, drawing on biblical stories and the example of Jesus Christ.  They discuss the importance of trusting in God, embracing the adventure of freedom, and recognizing both the beauty and the suffering in the world.  Suggestions for parents to help their children see life positively, such as reading stories or cultural activities, that instill hope and goodness.  You can:  Follow us on Instagram @thegrowingheartspodcast Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website Discover our schools by visiting: pared.edu.au/openday  Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes!

In this episode, Fr Paul & Fr Phil discuss how we can relate to God as a loving Father and find ways to talk to Him and develop a personal friendship. You can hear examples and anecdotes about: humans' innate desire for a Father, how to begin a relationship with God, starting with knowing ourselves the importance of self-acceptance within our relationship with God, using everyday moments to teach children how to talk to God, the importance of persevering with learning the language of prayer.   You can: Follow us on Instagram @thegrowingheartspodcast Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website Discover our schools by visiting: pared.edu.au/openday  Remember to click SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes!

In this episode, we dive deep into what kids need most from their parents, emphasizing the importance of understanding reality and the imperfect love we receive. We discuss how parents can instil faith, beauty, and hope in their children, and how to be a living example of joy and faith. Learn practical tips on teaching young kids to pray, create family traditions, and broaden your teenagers' horizons. Discover the profound impact of showing children that life can be awesome.   Fr Phil and Fr Paul will explore with us:  The importance of giving children experiences of beauty to open their perspectives.  How to promote a Living Faith: with naturalness and freedom.  How to help children understand that God is alive, and we can talk to Him through simple prayers.   The importance of knowing that suffering is a reality that can exist alongside hope.  The importance of expanding teenagers' horizons and the meaning of self-giving.  You can:   Follow us on Instagram @thegrowingheartspodcast   Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website   Discover our schools by visiting: pared.edu.au/openday   Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes  

Fr Phil and Fr Paul are school Chaplains for Tangara School for Girls and Redfield College.  In this first episode of the Growing Hearts Podcast, Fr Phil and Fr Paul join us to discuss what lies in store for families starting out on their family's faith adventure. Whether they're primary-school age or teenagers, our guests explore:  Natural and enriching ways to nurture and pass on the Catholic faith within your family The importance of integrating family prayers into your daily routines and how these rituals can strengthen your family's spiritual bond How to respect your children's freedom so that faith can grow freely and authentically  You can:  Follow us on Instagram @thegrowingheartspodcast Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website Discover our schools by visiting: pared.edu.au/openday  Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes!