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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#8.1 | Sue Atkins - Navigating the Digital Jungle: Practical Screen Time Boundaries
Sunday, August 30, 2026 • Duration 01:00:04
THE INTERVIEW
Screens seem to take over family life so easily, leaving many of us wondering how to keep our children safe without constant battles over devices. In this episode, parenting expert and author Sue Atkins joins us to share warm, practical strategies for raising confident, resilient children in a tech-driven world.
Rather than banning devices, Sue champions a mindful approach centered on balance, protection, and proactive boundaries. We discuss the impact of early screen access, the importance of privacy settings, and how to help children move from the fear of missing out (FOMO) to the joy of missing out (JOMO). Sue offers practical tools, like her "together at the table" initiative and the "press pause button," designed to help families stay connected, protect a child's inner voice, and build real-world self-esteem. Tune in for encouraging insights to help your family thrive both online and offline.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Balance Over Banning: Technology itself isn't the enemy; the goal is using tech consciously without letting it replace human interaction, bonding, or family connection.
Pro-Tech, Pro-Protect: Reframe restrictive "parental controls" as collaborative "privacy settings" to keep children safe without creating a combative dynamic.
Embrace JOMO (Joy of Missing Out): Help children swap online validation for real-world activities like sports, arts, or family time to build genuine self-esteem.
Delay Smartphones & Auto-Play: Turn off auto-play feature to avoid accidental over-exposure, and delay giving children internet-enabled smartphones as long as possible.
Nurture the Inner Voice: Use gentle conversation starters, shared meals, and side-by-side chats to help children build critical thinking and a kind internal compass.
QUOTES
"How do we help our children thrive in a digital world without fear, conflict or constant battles over devices?"
"I'm very pro-tech, but I'm very much pro-protect the children."
"It's about understanding and using it mindfully... Use tech consciously, don't use it as an electric babysitter."
"It's not about bashing each other over the head... Be your child's parent, not their friend, and put boundaries around it."
"Your voice today becomes their voice tomorrow."
Chapter Timestamps
00:00:00 - Introduction to Sue Atkins & Digital Parenting Challenges
00:03:42 - Early Screen Access & The Impact on Early Development
00:08:15 - Connection, Attachment & Avoiding the "Electric Babysitter"
00:12:39 - Smartphones vs. Brick Phones: Why Delaying Internet Access Matters
00:19:34 - Moving from FOMO to JOMO: Handling Peer Pressure & Group Chats
00:25:28 - Privacy Settings over Parental Controls: Framing Safety Collaboratively
00:33:49 - Talking Openly About Online Dangers & Critical Thinking
00:44:09 - Protecting Your Child's Inner Voice & Building True Self-Esteem
00:52:00 - Reclaiming Connection: Together at the Table & Device Dens
TAKE THE SELF-TALK QUIZ
https://bit.ly/RKMSelfTalk
HOW TO CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST
https://navigatingthedigitaljungle.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sueatkins
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/
#7.3: Returning to Love: A Guided Meditation with Lovely Liz
Episode 7
Thursday, August 27, 2026 • Duration 17:08
THE MEDITATION
In this episode, Kathryn introduces a soothing guided meditation led by Liz, inspired by insights from parenting expert Wendy O'Leary. Grounded in the realization that much of daily parenting anxiety the worry, striving, and fear of getting things wrong stems from a deep place of care, this practice offers a gentle reset.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Uncovering Love Beneath Fear: Parenting anxieties, fear of failure, and worry about a child's struggles are often misdirected expressions of deep love.
Proactive Grounding: Recalling feelings of warmth and gratitude for your child early in the day makes it easier to respond with patience when stressful moments inevitably arise.
Releasing the Need to Fix: Stepping out of "problem-solving mode" during meditation helps soften physical tension, lower anxiety, and ease the pressure of striving for perfection.
Mutual Growth: Difficult parenting moments are a natural part of development; both parents and children are continually learning and discovering the world together.
Savoring the Small Details: Dwelling on simple, joyful sensory memories—a child's smile, giggle, or soft hand—serves as an immediate anchor for self-compassion and calm.
BEST MOMENTS
"So much of our parenting comes from fear... and underneath all of that fear is something much warmer: love."
"There's nowhere else you need to be, nothing you need to solve, nothing you need to fix—simply this moment."
"You get to love this wonderfully unique little person exactly as they are.”
"Parenting is hard sometimes. Children are learning and growing, finding their way in the world—and so are we."
"The love we feel for our children is always there, even when we can't reach it in the moment."
TAKE THE SELF-TALK QUIZ
https://bit.ly/RKMSelfTalk
LINK TO THE INTERVIEW
Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/5XFuo8QFk1E7UMlapBC1g8?si=92430a2ae6234466
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/7-1-wendy-oleary-self-compassion-vs-self-esteem-what/id6783327960?i=1000785357116
LINK TO THE CONVERSATION
Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/0syrecd9o84TxEGNbABBq4
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/7-2-how-self-compassion-changes-your-parenting-debrief/id6783327960?i=1000785843600
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/
#7.2 | How Self-Compassion Changes Your Parenting - Debrief on Wendy O’Leary
Tuesday, August 25, 2026 • Duration 43:55
THE CONVERSATION
Ever feel like your inner critic takes over the moment parenting gets tough? We sit down in the lounge to debrief our insightful conversation with educator and author Wendy O’Leary. Together, we unpack how self-compassion isn't just a nice idea - it's an essential, daily practice for both adults and young minds. From practical grounding techniques like "seat and feet" to soothing emotional tools like "feeling rocks" and the power of saying "of course," this warm, honest chat explores how showing kindness to yourself directly shapes the voice your child carries within. Discover how early intervention, playful connection, and gentle self-talk can help your family ride life's biggest waves with resilience, warmth, and joy.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Your Voice Today Becomes Their Inner Voice: Children absorb the messages and emotional tone modelled by the adults around them.
Self-Compassion is a Daily Practice: Showing kindness during difficult moments creates internal capacity to handle life’s bigger challenges.
Grounding Restores Calm: Simple physical cues, such as "seat and feet" or a hand on the heart, help regulate the nervous system during stress.
Make Invisible Feelings Tangible: Tools like "feeling rocks" and compassionate holders help children identify and soothe hard emotions safely.
Connection Over Perfection: Playful activities like crafting or driving create natural, pressure-free spaces for curious conversations.
QUOTES
"The earlier we introduced them, the more naturally they'll become part of who they are."
"Learning to relate to ourselves in a kind and compassionate way, especially when things are difficult."
"When we do go out of our comfort zone... learning is hard."
"When we're kind to ourselves, we're more likely to be open to that experience of joy."
"With self-compassion, you can ride bigger waves."
EPISODE CHAPTERS
00:00 – Welcome to the Lounge
02:07 – The Power of Living, Breathing Practice
06:47 – Feeling Rocks & The Self-Compassion Blanket
10:49 – Taming the Inner Critic
18:54 – Practical Grounding: Seat & Feet
24:33 – Riding the Big Waves of Life
33:04 – The Magic of "Of Course, Sweetheart"
36:30 – Connection Through Play & Curiosity
40:33 – Closing Reflections
TAKE THE SELF-TALK QUIZ
https://bit.ly/RKMSelfTalk
LINK TO THE INTERVIEW
Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/5XFuo8QFk1E7UMlapBC1g8
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/6-1-wendy-oleary-self-compassion-vs-self-esteem-what/id6783327960?i=1000785357116
YouTube Podcasts:
https://youtu.be/GEwik5UNt4I
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/
#7.1 | Wendy O’Leary - Self-Compassion vs. Self-Esteem: What Children Really Need
Episode 7
Sunday, August 23, 2026 • Duration 54:23
THE INTERVIEW
Ever wondered what happens when we stop trying to fix every meltdown and simply help our children ride the wave instead? In part one of this warm conversation, educator and author Wendy O’Leary joins Kathryn Lovewell and Liz Walker to consider why self-compassion might be the most vital protective factor we can offer young minds. Moving beyond traditional self-esteem, Wendy shares how shifting away from achievement-based praise creates space for authentic growth and emotional resilience. From simple gestures like placing a hand on the heart to comforting self-talk, discover practical ways to model self-kindness at home, even when parenting feels completely overwhelming. If you want to help your child replace their inner critic with a supportive best friend, this episode offers a gentle, transformative starting point.
Self-Compassion Beats Self-Esteem: Self-esteem relies on external success or being better than others, whereas self-compassion grounds children in shared humanity.
Crucial Early Skill: Introducing self-kindness in preschool years prevents self-critical habits from hardening as children grow.
Mistakes Drive Growth: Approaching errors with warmth allows children to learn clearly rather than hiding out of fear.
Parental Co-Regulation: Pausing to settle your own nervous system first enables more compassionate responses to tantrums.
Simple Embodied Tools: Phrases like "Of course, honey" and placing a hand on the heart quickly soothe difficult emotions.
"Part of being happy is being able to handle the hard stuff."
"If we could give children those tools earlier, the benefit is just enormous."
"Self-compassion is dependent on common humanity: all humans struggle sometimes."
"We are being kind to ourselves with self-compassion simply because we're suffering."
“Our voice becomes their inner voice.”
00:00 – Why Children Need Self-Compassion First
02:00 – Early Signs: Spotting Frustration in Young Kids
10:11 – The Three Pillars: Mindfulness, Humanity & Kindness
19:55 – Self-Compassion vs. Self-Esteem Explained
31:27 – Practical Daily Tools for Parents and Caregivers
43:33 – Looking Ahead to Part Two
TAKE THE SELF-TALK QUIZ
https://bit.ly/RKMSelfTalk
HOW TO CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST
https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-oleary-76299b22/
https://www.instagram.com/wendy_oleary_mindfulmatters/
FIND WENDY’S BOOK HERE
https://link.amazon/B0dsTPiMz
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/
Key TakeawaysQuotesChapter Timestamps
#6.3: Tending to Yourself: A Guided Meditation with Kathryn Lovewell
Episode 6
Thursday, August 20, 2026 • Duration 18:28
THE MEDITATION
In this episode, Lovely Liz and meditation guide Kathryn lead a tender, heart-centered practice focused on self-compassion and gentleness. Inspired by guest Wendy O'Leary, the episode breaks down a three-part framework for compassionate self-talk combining common humanity, mindful naming of pain, and affection.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Physical Touch Soothes the Nervous System: Placing one or both hands over your heart offers a physical signal of warmth, safety, and self-care to your body.
Validating Your Struggle: Recognising that feeling overwhelmed or making mistakes doesn't mean you are failing; it simply means you are human.
Reflecting Love Inward: The deep affection and joy felt when visualizing a loved child can be intentionally turned inward to heal your own inner child.
Modeling for the Next Generation: The internal dialogue children develop as they grow up begins with the words they hear from caregivers - including the words caregivers say to themselves.
QUOTES
"At the heart of everything, being kind and gentle to yourself as you would be to someone you love is the key."
"We know that this kind of gentle, loving touch begins to soothe your nervous system. It signals: I am here, and I can tend to myself."
"You are not failing; you are simply being human."
"You do not have to have it all worked out before you can be kind to yourself."
"The voice a child grows up with begins with what they hear from you. It begins with what you say to yourself."
TAKE THE SELF-TALK QUIZ
https://bit.ly/RKMSelfTalk
LINK TO THE INTERVIEW
Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/5LHWMpDu2IwxrLZhSJiGcU?si=2787d82abdde4ad8
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/6-1-wendy-oleary-self-compassion-vs-self-esteem-what/id6783327960?i=1000783707891
LINK TO THE CONVERSATION
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/713CvNmvSxNdGVxBcLKoBh?si=eabf76753305413a
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/6-2-how-self-compassion-changes-your-parenting-debrief/id6783327960?i=1000784183215
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/
#6.2 | How Self-Compassion Changes Your Parenting - Debrief on Wendy O’Leary
Episode 6
Tuesday, August 18, 2026 • Duration 39:23
THE CONVERSATION
Ever feel like your inner critic takes over the moment parenting gets tough? We sit down in the lounge to debrief our insightful conversation with educator and author Wendy O’Leary. Together, we unpack how self-compassion isn't just a nice idea—it's an essential, daily practice for both adults and young minds. From practical grounding techniques like "seat and feet" to soothing emotional tools like "feeling rocks" and the power of saying "of course," this warm, honest chat explores how showing kindness to yourself directly shapes the voice your child carries within. Discover how early intervention, playful connection, and gentle self-talk can help your family ride life's biggest waves with resilience, warmth, and joy.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Your Voice Today Becomes Their Inner Voice: Children absorb the messages and emotional tone modelled by the adults around them.
Self-Compassion is a Daily Practice: Showing kindness during difficult moments creates internal capacity to handle life’s bigger challenges.
Grounding Restores Calm: Simple physical cues, such as "seat and feet" or a hand on the heart, help regulate the nervous system during stress.
Make Invisible Feelings Tangible: Tools like "feeling rocks" and compassionate holders help children identify and soothe hard emotions safely.
Connection Over Perfection: Playful activities like crafting or driving create natural, pressure-free spaces for curious conversations.
BEST MOMENTS
"The earlier we introduced them, the more naturally they'll become part of who they are."
"Learning to relate to ourselves in a kind and compassionate way, especially when things are difficult."
"When we do go out of our comfort zone... learning is hard."
"When we're kind to ourselves, we're more likely to be open to that experience of joy."
"With self-compassion, you can ride bigger waves."
CHAPTERS
00:00 – Welcome to the Lounge
02:07 – The Power of Living, Breathing Practice
06:47 – Feeling Rocks & The Self-Compassion Blanket
10:49 – Taming the Inner Critic
18:54 – Practical Grounding: Seat & Feet
24:33 – Riding the Big Waves of Life
33:04 – The Magic of "Of Course, Sweetheart"
36:30 – Connection Through Play & Curiosity
40:33 – Closing Reflections
TAKE THE SELF-TALK QUIZ
https://bit.ly/RKMSelfTalk
LINK TO THE INTERVIEW
Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/5LHWMpDu2IwxrLZhSJiGcU?si=2787d82abdde4ad8
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/6-1-wendy-oleary-self-compassion-vs-self-esteem-what/id6783327960?i=1000783707891
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/
#6.1 | Wendy O’Leary - Self-Compassion vs. Self-Esteem: What Children Really Need
Sunday, August 16, 2026 • Duration 48:54
THE INTERVIEW
Ever wondered what happens when we stop trying to fix every meltdown and simply help our children ride the wave instead? In part one of this warm conversation, educator and author Wendy O’Leary joins Kathryn Lovewell and Liz Walker to consider why self-compassion might be the most vital protective factor we can offer young minds. Moving beyond traditional self-esteem, Wendy shares how shifting away from achievement-based praise creates space for authentic growth and emotional resilience. From simple gestures like placing a hand on the heart to comforting self-talk, discover practical ways to model self-kindness at home, even when parenting feels completely overwhelming. If you want to help your child replace their inner critic with a supportive best friend, this episode offers a gentle, transformative starting point.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Self-Compassion Beats Self-Esteem: Self-esteem relies on external success or being better than others, whereas self-compassion grounds children in shared humanity.
Crucial Early Skill: Introducing self-kindness in preschool years prevents self-critical habits from hardening as children grow.
Mistakes Drive Growth: Approaching errors with warmth allows children to learn clearly rather than hiding out of fear.
Parental Co-Regulation: Pausing to settle your own nervous system first enables more compassionate responses to tantrums.
Simple Embodied Tools: Phrases like "Of course, honey" and placing a hand on the heart quickly soothe difficult emotions.
Quotes
"Part of being happy is being able to handle the hard stuff."
"If we could give children those tools earlier, the benefit is just enormous."
"Self-compassion is dependent on common humanity: all humans struggle sometimes."
"We are being kind to ourselves with self-compassion simply because we're suffering."
Chapter Timestamps
00:00 – Why Children Need Self-Compassion First
02:00 – Early Signs: Spotting Frustration in Young Kids
10:11 – The Three Pillars: Mindfulness, Humanity & Kindness
19:55 – Self-Compassion vs. Self-Esteem Explained
31:27 – Practical Daily Tools for Parents and Caregivers
43:33 – Looking Ahead to Part Two
TAKE THE SELF-TALK QUIZ
https://bit.ly/RKMSelfTalk
HOW TO CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST
https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-oleary-76299b22/
https://www.instagram.com/wendy_oleary_mindfulmatters/
FIND WENDY’S BOOK HERE
https://link.amazon/B0dsTPiMz
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/
#5.3 | The Power of the In-Breath: A Guided Meditation with Kathryn Lovewell
Episode 5
Thursday, August 13, 2026 • Duration 16:50
THE MEDITATION
In this soothing practice episode, Liz introduces a gentle guided meditation led by Kathryn, inspired by Mindful Self-Compassion co-founder Dr. Christopher Germer. Centered around the fundamental act of the in-breath, the very first action we take upon entering this world, this practice invites listeners to reframe receiving nourishment as an essential act of self-care rather than a selfish luxury.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Your First Act Was Receiving: The very first breath you took at birth was an in-breath, celebrated by everyone around you as a profound reminder that receiving is inherent to life.
Nourishing Yourself Isn't Selfish: Society often conditions us to believe that giving to others is more important than receiving, but taking in energy and self-care is a vital necessity.
The Breath Does Not Judge: Your breath flows naturally without asking whether you've earned it or deserve it; you are free to accept it unconditionally.
BEST MOMENTS
"The very first breath any of us ever took was an in-breath... and it was celebrated."
"Somewhere along the way, many of us learned that breathing in for ourselves, taking in, receiving, nourishing ourselves was somehow less important than what we give out."
"Your breath does not ask whether you have earned it. It simply flows."
TAKE THE SELF-TALK QUIZ
https://bit.ly/RKMSelfTalk
LINK TO THE INTERVIEW
Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/1SAEVD66AD4j2gg6Ni9bUr?si=e2d010b265074db0
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/5-1-dr-christopher-germer-overcoming-shame-and/id6783327960?i=1000781301570
LINK TO THE CONVERSATION
Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/5Bb7f8Ks4aBzg1Gbt8xObo?si=975791ee05db4672
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/5-2-inhaling-for-yourself-the-power-of-self/id6783327960?i=1000782830184
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/
#5.2 | Inhaling for Yourself: The Power of Self-Compassion - Debrief on Dr Christopher Germer
Tuesday, August 11, 2026 • Duration 33:08
THE CONVERSATION
Ever wonder if the way you speak to yourself is becoming the inner voice your children adopt? In this warm and reflective conversation, Kathryn Lovewell and Liz Walker unpack key insights from their discussion with Dr. Chris Germer, co-developer of Mindful Self-Compassion. Exploring the contrast between tender and fierce self-compassion, they share personal stories about reframing self-criticism and setting healthier boundaries. Discover how children internalise shame as young as two and a half, why taking a single in-breath for yourself can transform your day, and how modelling self-kindness creates a supportive environment for the whole family.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The Power of the In-Breath: Taking a breath for yourself is just as vital as giving outward to others.
Fierce vs. Tender Compassion: Self-compassion includes soothing comfort as well as strong, protective boundaries.
Early Shame Internalisation: Children can absorb negative self-talk and experience shame as young as age two and a half.
Modelling Self-Talk: Children learn how to respond to mistakes by observing how adults handle their own stumbles.
Practicing Self-Friendliness: Developing an encouraging inner voice is an ongoing skill that can be built at any age.
BEST MOMENTS
"The moment that we're born, everyone in the room celebrates the fact that we take the first breath in for ourselves."
"The way we talk to ourselves will impact our physiology, impact our internal chemistry, impact the way we feel."
"When we feel guilt, we attack our behaviour... But when we feel shame, we attack ourselves."
"Children can experience, get the full experience of shame by the age of two and a half."
"Self-compassion isn't something we have to earn. It's something we can practice one small moment at a time."
EPISODE CHAPTERS
00:00 Welcome to Raising Kind Minds
01:30 The Golden Gem: Inhaling for Yourself
07:43 Fierce vs. Tender Self-Compassion
12:14 Understanding Shame and Young Children
18:34 Modelling "Booster" over "Crusher"
21:35 Guilt vs. Shame: A Vital Distinction
25:34 Learning to Love Yourself Up
31:08 Final Reflections & Guided Practice
TAKE THE SELF-TALK QUIZ
https://bit.ly/RKMSelfTalk
LINK TO THE INTERVIEW
Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/1SAEVD66AD4j2gg6Ni9bUr
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/5-1-dr-christopher-germer-overcoming-shame-and/id6783327960?i=1000781301570
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/
#5.1 | Dr Christopher Germer - Overcoming Shame and Building Self-Compassion
Sunday, August 9, 2026 • Duration 01:14:47
THE INTERVIEW
Ever wondered how your self-talk quietly shapes the inner voice of the children around you? In this heartwarming conversation, clinical psychologist Dr Chris Germer joins us to unpack the origins of shame and why self-compassion is the ultimate antidote. From developmental phases in early childhood to his own decades-long battle with public speaking anxiety, Chris shares how loving yourself through moments of struggle can completely transform your life. We explore practical ways caregivers can move away from perfectionism, embrace being a "compassionate mess", and introduce gentle micro-practices into busy family routines. Tune in for a reassuring guide to building emotional resilience and treating yourself with genuine warmth.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Shame Begins Early: Children start experiencing self-conscious shame around two and a half years old as they form beliefs about what others think of them.
Three Pillars of Self-Compassion: True self-compassion requires non-judgmental mindfulness, common humanity, and active self-kindness working together.
Modeling for Children: Caregivers teach self-compassion best by embodying it and modeling gentle, compassionate responses when making everyday mistakes.
Fierce and Tender Sides: Self-compassion isn't weak; it includes tough, protective grit as well as gentle comfort and soothing.
Breathing for Yourself: A simple in-breath can serve as a compassionate reminder that your own emotional needs matter as much as everyone else's.
BEST MOMENTS
"When we feel guilt, we attack our behavior. Whereas when we feel shame, we attack ourselves."
"The best way to teach self-compassion is to be compassionate."
"I didn't know I could love myself."
"We practice not to feel better, but simply because we feel bad."
"We practice not to improve ourselves or not to perfect ourselves, but to perfect our love."
CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS
00:00 – What is Shame?
05:47 – Embarrassment vs Shame
08:21 – Unpacking the Inner Critic
12:36 – When Shame Develops in Childhood
18:53 – The Three Pillars of Self-Compassion
24:33 – How Caregivers Model Compassion
31:06 – Dr Chris Germer’s Personal Journey
41:01 – The Two Paradoxes of MSC Practice
48:02 – Debunking Myths Around Self-Compassion
57:09 – In for Me, Out for You: A Simple Practice
01:04:37 – Embracing Being a Compassionate Mess
TAKE THE SELF-TALK QUIZ
https://bit.ly/RKMSelfTalk
HOW TO CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST
https://www.instagram.com/christophergermerphd/
https://www.youtube.com/@christophergermerphd
https://chrisgermer.com/
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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