Conversations with Kristi

Kristi McVee
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  • PARENTING

Welcome to Conversations with Kristi! 🎙️ Hosted by Kristi McVee, this podcast is your go-to resource for keeping parents informed and kids safe in today’s ever-changing world. Each episode, Kristi brings expert insights, real-world advice, and meaningful discussions on topics like child abuse prevention, online safety, child development, parenting tips, and much more. Whether you're navigating the challenges of parenting or simply looking for ways to protect and empower your kids, Conversations with Kristi has you covered. Tune in to stay ahead of the curve and ensure your child's safety and well-being. 👉 Subscribe now for new episodes and stay informed! #ConversationsWithKristi #ParentingTips #KidsSafety #CAPEAU #ParentingAdvice #ChildSafety #KristiMcVee

  1. EP 59 Why Connection Comes Before Protection with Neil Milton

    MAR 4

    EP 59 Why Connection Comes Before Protection with Neil Milton

    In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, Kristi is joined by Neil Milton - founder of The Table Talk Project, advocate, and survivor - for a powerful and deeply human conversation about connection, prevention, and the role safe relationships play in protecting children and strengthening families. Neil shares his lived experience of growing up without a voice at home, the long-term impact of childhood sexual abuse, and how unaddressed trauma shaped his relationships, sense of safety, and ability to ask for help. He reflects on how becoming a parent - and later recognising his own experiences as abuse - became a catalyst for creating spaces where children are heard, believed, and supported. Together, Kristi and Neil explore how everyday disconnection within families can increase vulnerability to harm, why children often communicate distress through behaviour rather than words, and how something as simple - and intentional - as sharing a meal can create profound protective factors. This episode unpacks how grooming can occur in plain sight, the dangers of “busy” culture, and why having a designated space for conversation matters. It also explores the ripple effects of connection - from improved mental health and resilience, to early disclosure of harm and strengthened family bonds. This is not about perfection.It’s about presence, prevention, and creating environments where nothing is off the table. Content Warning This episode includes discussion of: childhood sexual abuse grooming behaviours trauma and mental health challenges suicide and suicidal ideation family violence and relational harm Some listeners may find this content confronting. Please listen with care and pause or step away if needed. Support resources are listed below. Key Themes Covered How disconnection within families increases vulnerability to harm Why children often communicate distress through behaviour The lifelong impact of growing up without a safe voice How grooming can occur in everyday environments The protective power of connection and consistent presence Why “busy” culture can unintentionally silence children The role of shared meals in building trust and safety Supporting disclosure through calm, trauma-informed responses How prevention starts with small, consistent moments of connection Why safe relationships are a cornerstone of child protection Why This Conversation Matters Child sexual abuse and emotional harm thrive in silence, secrecy, and disconnection. Many parents and carers deeply care about protecting children but feel overwhelmed, unsure, or stretched thin. This episode reminds us that prevention does not require perfection, expertise, or constant vigilance - it requires presence, listening, and relationship. By creating regular opportunities for connection and normalising conversation, adults can interrupt grooming, support disclosure, and ensure children know they are not alone. Prevention is possible - and it begins with being heard. About The Table Talk Project The Table Talk Project is a family-centred initiative designed to help households create intentional spaces for connection through shared meals and guided conversations. By encouraging families to come together regularly and engage in meaningful dialogue, the project supports emotional wellbeing, strengthens relationships, and creates protective environments where children feel safe to speak. 🔗 Learn more about The Table Talk Project:👉Website: https://thetabletalkproject.org/ 👉Back at The Table Web App: https://thetabletalkproject.org/at-the-table/ 👉Latest Blog Post: https://thetabletalkproject.org/category/the-table-talk-news/ 👉Book our services: https://thetabletalkproject.org/speaking-engagements-and-presentations/ Practical Support & Resources If this episode has raised questions about how to build safer, more connected environments for children and families, Kristi has created practical, trauma-informed resources to support parents and carers. 🔗 Explore education and tools:👉 www.kristimcvee.com Resources include: conversation guides for families body safety and consent education tools support for calm, protective conversations without fear or overwhelm Support Services (Australia) If you or someone you love needs support, help is available: Lifeline - 13 11 14 | lifeline.org.au 1800RESPECT (sexual assault, domestic & family violence) - 1800 737 732 | 1800respect.org.au Kids Helpline (ages 5-25) - 1800 55 1800 | kidshelpline.com.au If you are in immediate danger, please contact emergency services.

    54 min
  2. Ep 58 Supporting our neurodivergent families with Sharon Collon

    FEB 18

    Ep 58 Supporting our neurodivergent families with Sharon Collon

    In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, Kristi is joined by Sharon Collon - ADHD educator, coach, speaker, and founder of The Functional Family - for an honest and practical conversation about neurodiversity, online safety, learning differences, and what actually helps families thrive. Sharon is also host of the ADHD Families Podcast, where she supports parents navigating life with ADHD and other neurodivergent profiles. Having supported tens of thousands of families, Sharon’s work focuses on turning overwhelming information into clear, doable strategies. Together, Kristi and Sharon unpack what parents are truly crying out for - not more theory, not more labels - but practical tools that make everyday life easier. This episode weaves together neurodiversity, digital safety, emotional regulation, learning styles, rejection sensitivity, impulsivity, and body safety education - highlighting how prevention and support must be adapted for how children actually process the world. This is not a conversation about fear.It’s about understanding how your child’s brain works - and meeting them there. What This Episode Explores 1. The Reality of an ADHD Diagnosis Sharon shares her own journey of receiving her son’s diagnosis - including the overwhelm of being handed outdated information and left to figure it out alone. She explains why families don’t need more generic ADHD content online - they need: Clear, practical strategies Real-world application Emotional validation Support that reduces shame, not increases it 2. Processing Modalities: Why Talking Isn’t Always Enough Sharon explains that children process information in different ways, including: Conceptual (needing to understand why) Auditory Visual Verbal processing Emotional Intuitive Tactile (hands-on learners) When parents rely only on talking, many children simply don’t absorb the message - especially neurodivergent children. This becomes particularly important when teaching: Body safety Consent Online safety Social boundaries Risk awareness Kristi shares how role play - not just verbal instruction - helped her daughter internalise body safety rules. Sharon reinforces the importance of repetition and experiential learning over lecture-style conversations. 3. Online Safety, Gaming & Neurodivergence Kristi and Sharon have a grounded conversation about what’s actually happening in online spaces — especially for neurodivergent kids. They explore: Impulsivity and posting without thinking Dopamine-driven reward pathways How predators exploit attention and validation Difficulty reading social cues Why online interactions can feel safer than playground dynamics The very real impact of Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD) Sharon strongly encourages parents to understand RSD - explaining that for many children with ADHD, rejection can feel like physical pain. Rather than banning technology outright, Sharon recommends: Curiosity over confrontation Coaching conversations (not interrogation) Moving gaming into shared spaces Researching games before approving them Using tools like Common Sense Media to review age-appropriateness Understanding that shame shuts down learning This episode reframes tech supervision as relationship-based guidance - not surveillance. 4. Social Skills & Emotional Safety Sharon explains that social skills are not intuitive for everyone - and many adults would benefit from explicit social skills training. They discuss: Why some children miss subtle social cues Why gaming environments can feel predictable and therefore safer The need for explicit teaching rather than assumption The importance of consent-based connection (including hugs) Regulation before conversation Kristi highlights something powerful: sometimes children - and adults - need a hug before they can process words. Key Themes Covered ADHD and late diagnosis Practical strategies over theory Processing modalities and learning differences Role play vs verbal instruction Repetition and retention Body safety education Online grooming risks Impulsivity and dopamine reward systems Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD) Social skills development Curiosity-based parenting Regulation before correction Consent in everyday parenting moments Why This Conversation Matters Many parents feel: Overwhelmed Behind Outpaced by technology Unsure how to adapt for neurodivergent children This episode reminds us: Children don’t need perfect parents.They need informed, regulated adults who are willing to adjust their approach. When we understand how a child processes information, we can teach safety, boundaries, and skills in ways that actually stick. Prevention doesn’t start with fear.It starts with connection, repetition, and knowing your child’s brain. About Sharon Collon Sharon Collon is an ADHD educator, family coach, speaker, and founder of The Functional Family. She supports parents to move from confusion and overwhelm to clarity and confidence through evidence-informed, practical strategies. She is also the host of the ADHD Families Podcast, where she explores neurodiversity, regulation, parenting tools, and family wellbeing. Her work focuses on helping families: Understand ADHD beyond stereotypes Develop regulation skills Strengthen communication Build practical systems at home Support emotional and social development Create Your Family’s ADHD Roadmap – FREE Coaching WeekOne clear, tailored plan for your familyhttps://www.thefunctionalfamily.com/roadmap The ADHD Family Questhttps://www.thefunctionalfamily.com/questwaitlist The ADHD Families Podcasthttps://www.thefunctionalfamily.com/podcast Practical Support & Resources If this episode has raised questions about neurodiversity, safety education, or regulation, Kristi provides trauma-informed education and tools for families. 🔗 Explore resources:👉 www.kristimcvee.com Resources include: Body safety education Consent and protective behaviours tools Trauma-informed parenting guidance Support for calm disclosure conversations Support Services (Australia) If you or someone in your family needs support: Lifeline – 13 11 14 | lifeline.org.au Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 | beyondblue.org.au Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800 | kidshelpline.com.au 1800RESPECT – 1800 737 732 | 1800respect.org.au If you are in immediate danger, contact emergency services.

    1h 12m
  3. Ep 57 The Ripple Effect of Abuse with Rosalia Rivera

    FEB 4

    Ep 57 The Ripple Effect of Abuse with Rosalia Rivera

    In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, Kristi is joined by Rosalia Rivera - founder of Consent Parenting, consent educator, and survivor advocate - for a deeply important conversation about prevention, healing, and the responsibility adults hold in protecting children. Rosalia shares her lived experience of childhood sexual abuse and how becoming a parent resurfaced memories she didn’t yet have language for. Together, Kristi and Rosalia explore why so many parents avoid child safety conversations - whether through fear, overwhelm, or the belief that “this doesn’t happen in our family” - and how both avoidance and overprotection can leave children vulnerable. This episode unpacks how grooming operates in plain sight, why children communicate harm through behaviour, and how trauma-informed, age-appropriate conversations can dramatically reduce risk. It’s a hopeful, empowering discussion that centres education as a form of freedom - not fear. This is not about paranoia. It’s about prevention, connection, and courage. ⚠️ Content Warning This episode includes discussion of: childhood sexual abuse family and domestic violence grooming behaviours trauma responses online and peer-to-peer sexual harm Some listeners may find this content confronting. Please listen with care and pause or step away if needed. Support resources are listed below. Key Themes Covered Why “not my child” thinking places children at risk How unhealed adult trauma can impact prevention efforts Grooming behaviours in family, community, and online settings Why children often communicate harm through behaviour The importance of trauma-informed education for parents How consent, boundaries, and body safety protect all children Why silence and discomfort benefit offenders The long-term impacts of abuse when children are not believed How prevention protects children and prevents future offending Why normalising these conversations creates safer communities Why This Conversation Matters Child sexual abuse thrives in silence, stigma, and discomfort. Many parents avoid these conversations - not because they don’t care, but because they feel overwhelmed, triggered, or unsure where to start. This episode reminds us that education doesn’t create harm - it reduces it. By noticing behaviour, asking questions, and having ongoing, age-appropriate conversations, adults can interrupt grooming, support disclosure, and create environments where children feel safe to speak. Prevention is possible - and it starts at home. Practical Support & Resources If this episode has raised questions about how to start protective, trauma-informed conversations with children, Kristi has created practical tools to support parents and carers. 🔗 Explore resources and education: 👉 www.kristimcvee.com  Resources include: conversation guides for parents body safety education tools support for having calm, protective conversations without fear or overwhelm You can also explore Rosalia Rivera’s work at: 👉 www.consentparenting.com  Support Services (Australia) If you or someone you love needs support, help is available: Lifeline - 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au 1800RESPECT (sexual assault, domestic & family violence) - 1800 737 732 or 1800respect.org.au Kids Helpline (ages 5–25) - 1800 55 1800 or kidshelpline.com.au If you are in immediate danger, please contact emergency services.

    53 min
  4. Ep 56 When adults stay silent, kids pay the price with Andrew Goss

    JAN 21

    Ep 56 When adults stay silent, kids pay the price with Andrew Goss

    In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, Kristi speaks with Andrew Goss about the lifelong impact of childhood abuse - and the role silence, minimisation, and adult neutrality play in allowing harm to continue. Andrew shares his lived experience of family violence, sexual abuse (including female offending), and the repeated moments where warning signs were visible - but not acted upon. Together, Kristi and Andrew explore why children often try to communicate harm through behaviour, how grooming operates across different contexts, and why asking questions early can interrupt abuse before it escalates. This is not a sensational conversation. It’s a necessary one. ⚠️ Content Warning This episode includes discussion of: childhood sexual abuse family and domestic violence grooming behaviours trauma responses Some listeners may find this content confronting. Please listen with care and step away if needed. Support resources are listed below. Key Themes Covered Why silence and “staying neutral” is not harmless How children communicate harm through behaviour Grooming behaviours across male and female offending Why adults often dismiss or minimise warning signs The long-term impact of not being believed How early intervention can change outcomes Advocacy, boundaries, and choosing how to help safely Why This Conversation Matters Most abuse doesn’t continue because no one notices. It continues because adults feel uncomfortable asking questions - or assume someone else will act. This episode invites parents, carers, and professionals to reflect on the small moments where intervention matters, and how noticing, listening, and responding early can disrupt harm. Practical Support & Resources If this episode has raised questions about how to start calm, age-appropriate safety conversations with children, Kristi has created practical tools to support parents and carers. 🔗 Explore resources and education: 👉 www.kristimcvee.com  Resources include: conversation guides for parents body safety education tools support for having protective conversations without fear or overwhelm Support Services (Australia) If you or someone you love needs support, help is available: Lifeline – 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au 1800RESPECT (sexual assault, domestic & family violence) – 1800 737 732 or 1800respect.org.au Kids Helpline (for young people aged 5–25) – 1800 55 1800 or kidshelpline.com.au If you are in immediate danger, please contact emergency services.

    52 min
  5. S3 Ep14 - Parental Awareness on Child Safety with Vanessa Hamilton

    JAN 7

    S3 Ep14 - Parental Awareness on Child Safety with Vanessa Hamilton

    Episode Summary: The conversation delves into the alarming risks that young people face regarding sexual violence, emphasizing the lack of awareness among parents about these issues. It highlights the prevalence of unwanted sexual encounters and the disturbing trend of children perpetrating sexual violence against their peers. Key Takeaways: Parents often underestimate the risks of sexual violence. There are high rates of unwanted sexual encounters among youth. Children can be both victims and perpetrators of sexual violence. Awareness is crucial for prevention and protection. Education on sexual violence should start early. Open conversations about consent are necessary. Support systems for victims need to be strengthened. Community involvement is essential in addressing these issues. Resources for parents should be more accessible. Schools play a vital role in educating children about these risks. Episode Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction to the Conversation on Sexual Education04:23 - Understanding Parental Challenges in Discussing Sex07:11 - The Importance of Early Conversations10:15 - Navigating Teachable Moments13:22 - Age-Appropriate Discussions and Their Impact16:26 - Counteracting Negative Influences19:25 - Promoting Positive Sexual Relationships22:31 - Empowering Parents to Start Conversations25:23 - Utilising Resources for Effective Communication28:24 - Conclusion and Encouragement for Parents31:45 - Introduction to Child Safety Education

    33 min
  6. S3 Ep13 - Navigating the Digital Landscape with Trent Ray

    12/17/2025

    S3 Ep13 - Navigating the Digital Landscape with Trent Ray

    Episode Summary: The conversation explores the challenges faced by the digital generation as they navigate technology independently. It emphasises the importance of introducing technology in a safe manner, akin to teaching children to swim, where they gradually gain skills and independence. Key Takeaways: The digital generation faces unique challenges in technology. Children are often left to navigate technology on their own. Introducing technology should be done safely, similar to swimming lessons. Using apps and platforms can help develop skills in a controlled environment. Gradual exposure to technology fosters independence in children. Safety measures, like floaties in swimming, are essential in tech introduction. Monitoring children while they learn technology is crucial. As children grow, they can handle more complex tech tasks. Skills development in technology is a gradual process. Technology education should evolve with the child's age and abilities. Episode Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction to Cyber Safety02:23 - Understanding the Dangers of Online Gaming05:17 - Navigating Parental Guidance and Restrictions08:19 - Empowering Conversations with Children11:46 - The Importance of Early Cyber Safety Education15:34 - Building Trust and Open Communication20:23 - Introducing Technology Safely21:53 - Resources for Parents on Technology23:46 - Establishing Family Rules for Online Safety25:56 - Understanding App Classifications27:48 - Reflecting on Childhood and Social Media29:19 - Tips for Managing Screen Time31:49 - Transitioning from Screen Time to Offline Activities34:39 - Empowering Healthy Digital Consumption37:12 - Introduction to Child Safety Education

    38 min
  7. S3 Ep12 - The Rise of AI Deepfakes and Child Exploitation with Ben Gillenwater

    12/03/2025

    S3 Ep12 - The Rise of AI Deepfakes and Child Exploitation with Ben Gillenwater

    EPISODE SUMMARY: In this episode of "Conversations with Kristi," Kristi discusses the alarming rise in online child exploitation with Ben Gillenwater, an IT and cybersecurity expert. They explore the challenges parents face in protecting their children from digital dangers, emphasising the importance of education and proactive parenting. Ben shares his personal journey of becoming the "family IT guy" and offers insights into managing children's online presence safely. KEY TAKEAWAYS: The alarming rise in online child exploitation cases, with significant increases in AI deepfakes. The importance of proactive parenting in managing children's online presence. Ben Gillenwater's journey from IT expert to family IT advisor. The role of education in empowering parents and children against digital threats. The impact of social media and online platforms on children's mental health. Strategies for setting boundaries and expectations for children's device usage. The significance of leading by example in digital habits. The challenges of balancing parental control with children's privacy. The need for open communication between parents and children about online risks. The benefits of community and educational resources in supporting digital safety. CHAPTERS: 00:00:00 Introduction and Background 00:06:00 The Rise of Online Exploitation 00:12:00 Ben's Journey to Family IT 00:18:00 Parenting Challenges in the Digital Age 00:24:00 Proactive Parenting Strategies 00:30:00 The Role of Education in Digital Safety 00:36:00 Managing Children's Online Presence 00:42:00 Balancing Control and Privacy 00:48:00 Community and Educational Resources 00:54:00 Final Thoughts and Takeaways   For additional resources and support services, please head to my website at https://www.cape-au.com/free-resources  You can also watch the full video version of this episode on my YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/8dg5zBwZKhs  To learn more and connect with Ben, head over to his LinkedIn page at https://www.linkedin.com/in/bgilly/ or connect with him on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/family_it_guy

    1h 8m
  8. S3 Ep11 - The Impact of Trauma on Identity with Jessica Ella

    11/19/2025

    S3 Ep11 - The Impact of Trauma on Identity with Jessica Ella

    Summary: In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, we delve into the profound impact of trauma on identity, particularly for women as Jessica Ella shares her profound journey of healing from childhood sexual abuse. Jess discusses her unique approach to trauma recovery, emphasising the importance of understanding complex trauma and its impact on identity. She recounts her personal experiences of abuse, the challenges of navigating family dynamics, and the power of disclosure. The conversation highlights the flaws in the justice system and the necessity of support systems for survivors. Ultimately, Jessica's message is one of empowerment and hope, encouraging others to reclaim their power and heal from their past. Takeaways: Jessica Ella's journey into healing began from her own trauma. She developed a unique method to help others heal from trauma. Complex trauma can significantly affect one's identity and self-worth. The act of abuse is often less traumatic than the secrecy surrounding it. Disclosure is a powerful tool for survivors to reclaim their narrative. Family dynamics play a crucial role in the experience of abuse. Support systems are essential for healing and recovery. The justice system often fails to protect victims of familial abuse. Survivors can choose how to respond to their abusers. Healing is possible, and it requires a commitment to self-discovery. Healing is a continuous journey that requires daily commitment. Children often mirror the behaviors of their parents, triggering unresolved issues. Seeking justice can be a complex and emotional process. Empowerment comes from healing and helping others. Trauma can be understood as an open memory that needs closure. Creating safe spaces for children to express their feelings is crucial. Parents must address their own trauma to effectively support their children. It's important to communicate openly with children about difficult topics. Healing from trauma is possible and does not define a person's future. Resources and education are vital for both parents and children. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction to Jessica Ella's Journey 03:09 - Healing Through Trauma: Jessica's Methodology 07:08 - Understanding Complex Trauma and Identity 10:24 - Jessica's Personal Story of Abuse 13:59 - The Impact of Abuse on Mental Health 17:38 - The Power of Healing and Self-Discovery 22:08 - The Dynamics of Power in Abuse 24:23 - The Role of Family in Trauma 27:46 - Recognising Red Flags in Abusive Relationships 29:51 - The Challenges of Family Court and Child Support 31:07 - Trust Issues with the Justice System 32:12 - The Complexity of Child Disclosure 34:08 - Factors Influencing Child Recantation 35:51 - The Confusion of Love and Abuse 37:21 - The Child's Need for Parental Love 40:08 - The Impact of Parental Abuse on Self-Love 42:15 - The Betrayal of Trust in Family Dynamics 44:06 - Navigating the Justice System 47:37 - Finding Empowerment Beyond Trauma 51:53 - Understanding Trauma and Healing Methods 55:54 - Understanding Trauma and Memory Processing 01:00:59 - Navigating Difficult Conversations with Children 01:05:19 - Healing from Complex Trauma 01:09:34 - Supporting Children After Trauma Disclosure 01:12:19 - Resources for Parents and Caregivers 01:16:07 - Introduction to Child Safety Education For additional resources and support services, please head to my website at https://www.cape-au.com/free-resources  You can also watch the full video version of this episode on my YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/zl2VFsIw8qA To learn more and connect with Jess please head to her Instagram @iamjessicaella and you can grab a copy of the book "Secret or Surprise" at https://www.secretorsurprise.com.au

    1h 17m
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About

Welcome to Conversations with Kristi! 🎙️ Hosted by Kristi McVee, this podcast is your go-to resource for keeping parents informed and kids safe in today’s ever-changing world. Each episode, Kristi brings expert insights, real-world advice, and meaningful discussions on topics like child abuse prevention, online safety, child development, parenting tips, and much more. Whether you're navigating the challenges of parenting or simply looking for ways to protect and empower your kids, Conversations with Kristi has you covered. Tune in to stay ahead of the curve and ensure your child's safety and well-being. 👉 Subscribe now for new episodes and stay informed! #ConversationsWithKristi #ParentingTips #KidsSafety #CAPEAU #ParentingAdvice #ChildSafety #KristiMcVee

Information

  • Creator
    Kristi McVee
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    58
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Child Abuse Prevention and Education Australia
  • Show Website
    Conversations with Kristi

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