Shaping Our World

Chris Tompkins
  • 4.7 (13)
  • PARENTING
  • UPDATED SEMIMONTHLY
Shaping Our World

You’re a parent or maybe you work with young people in your job - but either way, you have a desire to inspire the young people in your life. Hi, my name is Chris Tompkins, a 20 plus years veteran of youth development. Both on the front lines and leading the youth development organization, Muskoka Woods. I’m also a dad. Shaping Our World is a podcast that invites you into a conversation that will leave you more confident in inspiring and understanding the young people in your life.

  1. 5D AGO

    Raising Humble Thinkers in a Loud World with Dr. Tenelle Porter

    In this episode of Shaping Our World, host Chris Tompkins sits down with Dr. Tenelle Porter, a developmental psychologist and leading expert on intellectual humility. With humour and heart, Tenelle unpacks how embracing what we don’t know can help teens thrive in today’s complex, digital world. From growing curiosity to navigating disagreement, the conversation offers insight for parents, educators, and mentors who want to raise resilient, reflective young people. Tune in to explore how humility isn’t weakness—it’s a strength that shapes better relationships, stronger communities, and a deeper understanding of ourselves and others.

    38 min

  2. MAY 29

    More Than a Feeling: Why Self-Compassion Matters for Today’s Youth

    In this episode of Shaping Our World, Dr. Karen Bluth joins host Chris Tompkins to explore how self-compassion can transform the lives of teens. A leading researcher and author, Dr. Bluth unpacks practical tools for managing anxiety, overcoming self-criticism, and navigating the challenges of adolescence. With heartfelt stories and research-backed insights, this episode offers encouragement and strategies for parents, educators, and anyone passionate about supporting young people on their journey to emotional well-being.

    40 min

  3. MAY 15

    From Struggle to Small Bits of Happiness: A Teen-Led Movement for Everyday Joy

    In this episode of Shaping Our World, Chris Tompkins is joined by teenage sisters Mercedes and Anastasia Korngut, co-founders of Small Bits of Happiness. Tune in to hear how their journey—from struggling with happiness to building a thriving business and podcast—empowers teens to build joyful habits, foster deeper connections with parents, and find meaning in everyday moments. Discover practical “happiness hacks” and inspiring insights that will resonate with youth, parents, and educators alike.

    48 min

  4. MAY 1

    Protecting Our Kids Online and Beyond with Sofia Friesen

    Sofia Friesen returns to Shaping Our World for a powerful second conversation about protecting youth from human trafficking in Canada. As Canadian Programs Director at Ally Global Foundation, Sofia shares the latest on their groundbreaking Prevention Project and offers real-world tools to keep kids safe online. With practical red flags to watch for and hopeful stories of change, this episode is an urgent yet empowering resource for parents and caregivers.

    53 min

  5. APR 17

    Understanding and Supporting Kids’ Mental Health with Dr. Robin Baweja

    Chris Tompkins welcomes Dr. Robin Baweja — pediatrician, author, and founder of Dear Mommy — for a meaningful conversation on children’s mental health. Drawing from her medical background and personal experience as a parent, Dr. Baweja shares how to recognize early signs of anxiety, depression, and emotional struggles in kids, along with tips for building resilience. They explore the impact of the pandemic, the importance of emotional literacy, and how parents and caregivers can support children at every stage of development.

    48 min

  6. APR 1

    Breaking Barriers: Lessons in Inclusion, Independence and Purpose

    In this episode of Shaping Our World, host Chris Tompkins sits down with Fiona Goy and Poppy Go, two remarkable mothers who have dedicated their lives to advocating for children with exceptionalities. Fiona and Poppy share their personal journeys of raising sons on the autism spectrum, the life-changing decisions they made to support their development, and how sports, summer camps, and employment opportunities have empowered their children to thrive. Their inspiring stories offer encouragement, practical wisdom, and a powerful message about inclusion, resilience, and the limitless potential within every young person.

    39 min

  7. MAR 13

    Inspiring Young Minds Through Storytelling with Sara Furlong

    In this episode of Shaping Our World, host Chris Tompkins welcomes acclaimed author and creative director, Sara Furlong. With nearly 20 years of experience creating engaging content for kids and tweens, Sara shares insights on fostering empathy and understanding through literature. We dive into her award-winning book, Every Brain is Beautiful, which introduces neurodiversity to children, and explore her latest project, Storyay, a revolutionary approach to literacy. Join us for an inspiring conversation on storytelling, inclusivity, and how we can better support the young minds shaping our world.

    40 min

  8. FEB 27

    Money Smarts for the Next Generation: A Conversation with Angelique de Montbrun

    Season 5 of Shaping Our World kicks off with an insightful conversation featuring Angelique de Montbrun, CEO of Mydoh, a money management app designed to empower kids and teens with real-world financial skills. Angelique shares her expertise on fostering financial literacy from an early age, the impact of digital tools on money management, and how parents can help their children build healthy financial habits. Whether you’re a parent navigating conversations about money or a young person eager to take control of your finances, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

    44 min
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Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

4.7
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

You’re a parent or maybe you work with young people in your job - but either way, you have a desire to inspire the young people in your life. Hi, my name is Chris Tompkins, a 20 plus years veteran of youth development. Both on the front lines and leading the youth development organization, Muskoka Woods. I’m also a dad. Shaping Our World is a podcast that invites you into a conversation that will leave you more confident in inspiring and understanding the young people in your life.

Information

  • Creator
    Chris Tompkins
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2025
  • Episodes
    81
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Muskoka Woods
  • Show Website
    Shaping Our World

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