Shaping Our World – Details, episodes & analysis

Join host Chris Tompkins as he sits down with renowned child development expert Ellen Galinsky. Ellen, president of Families and Work Institute and acclaimed author, brings a wealth of insights on youth development. Known for her groundbreaking book, Mind in the Making, Ellen’s latest release, The Breakthrough Years, dives into the complexities of adolescence with a fresh perspective. Her expertise in executive functioning, skill-building, and adolescent growth makes this episode a must-listen for anyone invested in understanding today’s youth. This engaging conversation offers both practical advice and inspiration for parents, educators, and leaders. 

In this episode of Shaping Our World, host Chris Tompkins speaks with Dave Krocker, head of Rosseau Lake College. They explore the importance of outdoor experiential learning and its impact on youth development. Dave shares his passion for immersive nature experiences and how his school integrates these principles into education. The conversation covers key educational trends, like the rise of AI, and the importance of teaching ethical responsibility. Together, they offer practical advice for educators and parents, highlighting the vital role of balance, soft skills, and character development in shaping today’s youth.

Join host Chris Tompkins as he delves into the world of youth development with Brad Griffin, Senior Director of Content and Research at the Fuller Youth Institute. With a rich background in spirituality, Christian faith, and youth ministry, Brad shares invaluable insights for parents and caregivers. Whether you're from a faith-based background or not, this episode offers thoughtful perspectives on raising confident, well-rounded kids in today's culture. Discover practical tips and inspiring advice to better understand and support the young people in your life. Tune in for an engaging and enlightening conversation!

Welcome to the latest episode of the Shaping Our World podcast! Today, we're diving into a topic that's close to many of our hearts: therapy and counselling for young people. Host Chris Tompkins is joined by Marianne Deeks, a seasoned registered psychotherapist with a wealth of experience.

Marianne sheds light on the counselling process, helping us understand how to choose the right therapist and what to expect along the way. With 26 years of experience, including working extensively with adolescents and families, Marianne offers invaluable insights into creating safe spaces for young people to share and grow. Tune in as we explore the importance of therapy in navigating life's challenges and empowering our youth to thrive.

In this episode of Shaping Our World, join certified parenting coach, author, podcaster and speaker Robbin McManne as she shares invaluable insights for parents and caregivers. With a focus on fostering connection and joy in parenting, Robbin delves into the core of conscious parenting, guiding listeners through understanding their emotions and frustrations while nurturing their children's self-worth.

Drawing from her expertise in supporting parents globally, Robbin addresses common challenges in modern parenting and offers empowering strategies for navigating them. Discover how to gracefully navigate conflicts with your kids and cultivate cooperation without compromising your own identity. Tune in for a transformative discussion that promises to enrich your parenting journey.

Should your child take a “gap year” between high school and university? The latest episode of the Shaping Our World podcast may help to answer that question as we sit down with Michelle Dittmer, educator, youth advocate and founder of the Canadian Gap Year Association (CanGap). With her extensive background in teaching and youth development, Michelle champions the power of the gap year experience. She passionately believes in the innate potential of young people and advocates for creating spaces where their voices are heard and valued. Tune in as Michelle shares insights on the benefits of taking a gap year between high school and post-secondary education. From fostering innovative thinking to addressing mental health and career education, discover how gap years can positively shape the journey of our youth.

In this episode of Shaping Our World, host Chris Tompkins has a heartfelt conversation with Brady Leavold, retired professional hockey player turned beacon of hope. Brady's journey is a testament to resilience and the power of redemption. From the highs of signing with the Tampa Bay Lightning to the depths of addiction and despair, Brady's story is one of transformation. 

Discover how Brady's rediscovery of his love for the game sparked a journey of healing and purpose. Through his Puck Support Network and podcast, Hockey 2 Hell and Back, Brady is on a mission to support fellow athletes and anyone grappling with mental health and addiction challenges.

Tune in for practical insights on supporting young people navigating mental health, understanding the unique pressures athletes face, and how childhood trauma shapes our futures. Brady's story will inspire you to believe in the possibility of second chances and the capacity for change.

In this heartening episode of Shaping Our World, we welcome the remarkable Dan Scott, a beacon of insight and guidance for parents navigating the challenges of raising children and teens. As Executive Director of Life Stage Content Strategies at Orange — a team of leaders, educators, researchers, counsellors, writers, editors, artists, and musicians, all committed to supporting churches and families as they nurture the faith and future of the next generation — Dan brings a wealth of wisdom to the table. Tune in as Dan shares empowering strategies for parents aiming to foster their kids' faith journey in a tailored and authentic manner. From addressing common struggles kids face to embracing the transformative power of art and creativity, Dan's insights are as inspiring as they are practical. For parents seeking to cultivate a resilient and spiritually vibrant next generation, this episode is an absolute must-listen!

Get ready to empower your kids for success in the digital age! In this episode of Shaping Our World, we're joined by the dynamic Stacey Ross Cohen, an expert in personal branding and marketing. Drawing from her wealth of experience and her latest book, Brand Up: The Ultimate Playbook for College & Career Success, Stacey shares invaluable insights on cultivating a strong personal brand for our children and teens. From navigating social media to standing out in a competitive world, Stacey offers practical tips, engaging exercises, and powerful tools to help our kids shine online. As a seasoned professional and sought-after speaker, Stacey knows what it takes to make a lasting impression. Tune in and let's guide our kids to put their best foot forward and thrive in today's interconnected world!

Join us for today's episode of Shaping Our World as we delve into the realms of mental wellness with the esteemed Dr. Norman Rosenthal. Renowned psychiatrist and bestselling author, Dr. Rosenthal enlightens us on Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) — a term he coined more than 40 years ago — and the transformative power of light therapy. With over 20 years of groundbreaking research at the National Institute of Mental Health, his insights are invaluable. From overcoming adversity to fostering creativity in our children, Dr. Rosenthal offers profound guidance for parents navigating the complexities of raising resilient kids. Tune in for an enlightening conversation on health, happiness, and nurturing the unique spirit of our youth.