The Building Resilient Kids Podcast

Building Resilient Kids
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Tim Curtis spent his first career in the elite SAS, but somehow, parenting remains his toughest mission yet. A self-confessed “average father” and not an expert in much related to kids, he’s on a quest to answer a question that parents, teachers, coaches, and pretty much every adult has asked him: ”How do we build resilience in kids?” From the bestselling co-author of The Resilience Shield and co-host of The Unforgiving60, this podcast dives into the science and stories behind resilience—minus the fluff. Tim brings in world-class experts, unpacks practical tools, and shares real-life insights to help the whole village (that’s you!) raise kids who can handle life’s curveballs. If you’ve ever wondered how to help your kids bounce back, stress less, and grow into kind, confident young adults—without the usual parenting clichés—this is the podcast for you. Buckle up, it’s time to Build Resilient Kids!

  1. 6d ago

    Ben Pronk – Former SAS Officer, Leadership Expert and Author of We Are All Going to Die

    "Our Kids Should Fight to Be Happy: Why Resilience May Be the Foundation of a Flourishing Life" In this thought-provoking episode of Building Resilient Kids, host Tim Curtis is joined by former Australian SAS officer, leadership expert, bestselling author and long-time friend Ben Pronk to explore one of life's biggest questions: What does it really mean for our kids to be happy? While many parents say they simply want their children to be happy, Ben challenges us to reconsider what happiness actually is and whether modern life has quietly led us astray. Drawing on philosophy, neuroscience, psychology and positive psychology, Ben argues that lasting happiness isn't found through comfort, achievement or material success. Instead, it emerges from a balance of pleasure and purpose, meaningful relationships, gratitude and the willingness to embrace struggle. Together, Tim and Ben unpack why resilience may not simply support happiness—it may be one of its essential foundations. They explore why today's children are growing up in a world of unprecedented comfort, comparison and digital distraction, yet increasing rates of anxiety, loneliness and poor wellbeing. The conversation also examines why failure is an essential teacher, why parents should resist removing every obstacle from a child's path, and how modelling gratitude, curiosity and presence shapes children's understanding of what a good life looks like. Blending ancient philosophy with practical parenting, this episode offers a refreshing reminder that our goal is not to raise children who avoid hardship—but children who develop the confidence, character and resilience to flourish because of it. Key Themes and Takeaways Why happiness is more than simply feeling good. The difference between pleasure and purpose—and why children need both. Why resilience may be the foundation of lasting happiness. The psychology behind why humans are surprisingly poor judges of what will make them happy. How comparison quietly steals joy, particularly in the age of social media. Why gratitude is one of the simplest habits for improving wellbeing. The importance of allowing children to experience challenge, setbacks and failure. Why meaningful relationships remain the strongest predictor of long-term wellbeing. How parents unintentionally model happiness every day through their own behaviours. What Aristotle, Stoicism, Epicureanism and modern neuroscience all agree about living a flourishing life. Why comfort should never become the ultimate parenting goal. How recognising life's finite nature can help us become more present with the people who matter most. More About Ben Ben Pronk is a former Australian Army officer who served for more than a decade in the Special Air Service Regiment (SAS), including operational deployments to East Timor, Iraq and Afghanistan. Following his military career, Ben co-founded Mettle Global, where he works with organisations around the world to develop resilient leaders, high-performing teams and adaptive cultures. Ben is the co-author (with Dr Dan Pronk and Tim Curtis) of The Resilience Shield, an evidence-based framework for building resilience across the mind, body, social and professional domains. His latest book, We Are All Going to Die, published by Pan Macmillan, explores one of humanity's oldest questions: how can we build a happier, richer and more meaningful life? Combining philosophy, neuroscience, psychology and humour, Ben offers practical insights into flourishing in an increasingly complex world. Through writing, keynote presentations and leadership development, Ben continues to help individuals and organisations rethink resilience, purpose and what it truly means to live well. Resources Ben Pronk — https://www.benpronk.com We Are All Going to Die — Ben Pronk (Pan Macmillan) The Resilience Shield — https://resilienceshield.com Building Resilient Kids — https://resilienceshield.com/kids The Harvard Study of Adult Development — Harvard University Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics (Eudaimonia) Meditations — Marcus Aurelius The Myth of Sisyphus — Albert Camus Quote of the Episode "Fight to be happy." Another Memorable Quote "Happiness is a balance of pleasure and purpose." One More Worth Remembering "I want struggle for my kids."

  2. Jul 10

    Daniel Principe – Youth Advocate, Educator and Author, Helping Young People Build Character, Healthy Relationships and Resilience

    "Character Before Culture: Daniel Principe on Raising Good Humans in a Noisy World"   In this thought-provoking episode of Building Resilient Kids, host Tim Curtis is joined by Daniel Principe—one of Australia's leading youth advocates, educator, author and speaker, whose work has reached hundreds of thousands of young people, parents and educators across the country. Daniel explores what it means to raise resilient children in an age dominated by social media, comparison, digital distraction and competing cultural influences. Rather than blaming young people, Daniel challenges adults to become more curious, more intentional and more connected. The conversation explores why character matters more than status, why resilience is "caught" as much as it is taught, and why meaningful relationships remain the greatest protective factor for children navigating an increasingly complex world. Daniel also shares insights from his work around respectful relationships and consent education, arguing that consent is only one part of a much bigger conversation about empathy, emotional regulation, communication and becoming a person of good character. Throughout the discussion, Daniel offers practical wisdom for parents, teachers and mentors who want to help young people develop courage, resilience and confidence without losing kindness, humility or curiosity. This episode is a powerful reminder that while the world facing today's children is changing rapidly, the fundamentals of raising good humans remain remarkably timeless. Key Themes and Takeaways Why curiosity is one of the most important qualities parents and leaders can develop. How resilience is often "caught" through role models before it is ever taught. The impact of digital culture, social media and constant comparison on young people's wellbeing. Why today's children need character formation as much as academic achievement. Helping young people move from knowing what's right to actually living it. Why boredom, struggle and discomfort remain essential ingredients for resilience. The importance of celebrating character rather than simply achievement. How healthy relationships underpin resilience, confidence and mental wellbeing. Why consent begins long before discussions about sex—it starts with respect, empathy and healthy communication. The role adults play in shaping culture, values and expectations for the next generation. Why boys—and girls—need adults who consistently model courage, kindness, humility and integrity. The importance of creating intentional family conversations and meaningful rites of passage. More About Daniel Daniel Principe is an Australian youth advocate, educator, author and international speaker who has spent more than a decade working with schools, sporting organisations, parents and communities to help young people thrive. His work focuses on character formation, respectful relationships, masculinity, digital culture, consent education and emotional wellbeing. Daniel is widely recognised for his practical, evidence-informed approach to engaging young people through curiosity rather than judgment, encouraging them to become thoughtful, resilient and compassionate adults. Through keynote presentations, workshops, writing and media appearances, Daniel continues to challenge cultural narratives while equipping families and educators with practical tools to raise young people of strong character in an increasingly complex world. Resources Daniel Principe — https://www.danielprincipe.com.au Consent Can’t Wait Campaign — https://resilienceshield.com Building Resilient Kids — https://resilienceshield.com/kids The Anxious Generation – Jonathan Haidt — https://www.anxiousgeneration.com The Center for Humane Technology — https://www.humanetech.com Common Sense Media — https://www.commonsensemedia.org (excellent guidance on digital wellbeing and technology for families) Quote of the Episode "You can't be judgmental and curious at the same time—pick one." Another Memorable Quote "Character matters more than status." One More Worth Remembering "Resilience is often caught before it is taught." (resilience is contagious)

  3. Jul 3

    Roy Newey – Entrepreneur, Author, Father of 2, Turning Dyslexia into a Superpower

    "Bullies, Business and Belief: Roy Newey on Finding Strength in Life's Biggest Setbacks"   Building Resilient Kids, host Tim Curtis sits down with Roy Newey... entrepreneur, business leader, author, father, and self-described "dyslexic who still can't read or write." Roy's story begins with spectacular academic failure. Leaving school without passing a single exam, few would have predicted he would one day build and sell multiple businesses, lead the economic regeneration of Liverpool, chair a bunch of companies, and become an author. Roy reflects on how dyslexia, once viewed as his greatest disadvantage, became his greatest competitive advantage. Unable to rely on written words, he developed extraordinary observational skills, emotional intelligence, memory and an ability to read people—qualities that shaped his success as a leader. The conversation also explores Roy's deeply personal children's novel, Timothy and the Triplets Three. Inspired by his own son's experiences with bullying, the story helps children realise they are not alone while reminding parents, teachers and carers of the profound influence adults have on a child's resilience. Throughout the episode, Roy shares heartfelt stories about humour, confidence, parenting, and why allowing children to experience manageable struggle is one of the greatest gifts adults can give. This episode is a powerful reminder that resilience isn't about avoiding hardship—it's about discovering the strengths that hardship can reveal. Key Themes and Takeaways How dyslexia became Roy's greatest professional advantage rather than his biggest limitation Why emotional intelligence often begins with careful observation rather than talking The hidden strengths many neurodivergent children develop The lasting impact bullying has on both victims and those who bully Why isolation is often the bully's greatest weapon—and connection is the antidote Using humour to diffuse conflict, build relationships and strengthen resilience The importance of helping children solve their own problems rather than rescuing them Why overprotecting children can unintentionally weaken confidence and resilience Encouraging children to embrace setbacks as opportunities for growth The value of mentors and timely words of encouragement throughout life Why resilience is often built one small challenge at a time—not through avoiding difficulty More About Roy Roy Newey is an entrepreneur, international business adviser, author and speaker who has spent more than three decades helping organisations and communities grow. Despite leaving school without passing a single exam due to dyslexia, Roy went on to build and sell multiple successful businesses, lead the economic regeneration of Liverpool, and chair more than 150 companies across the UK and internationally. Roy is also the author of Timothy and the Triplets Three, a children's novel inspired by his son's experience with bullying. Written to help young readers feel less alone, the book explores friendship, belonging, courage and resilience through humour and adventure. Roy's story is a powerful reminder that the labels placed on us as children need never define our future. Resources Roy Newey – https://www.bdadyslexia.org.uk Made By Dyslexia – https://www.madebydyslexia.org The Diana Award Anti-Bullying Programme – https://antibullyingpro.com The Resilience Shield – https://resilienceshield.com Building Resilient Kids – https://resilienceshield.com/kids Quote of the Episode "Being dyslexic became my superpower." Another memorable quote "Sometimes the greatest gift we can give our children is not rescuing them, but standing beside them while they work out the solution themselves."

  4. Mar 25

    Michelle Mitchell – Parenting Educator, Author, Mother of 2, Champion of Teen Connection and Resilience

    “Space, Trust and the Roundabout: Michelle Mitchell on What Teens Really Need from Us” In this insightful and deeply practical episode of Building Resilient Kids, host Tim Curtis speaks with Michelle Mitchell—parenting educator, bestselling author, and founder of the Resilient Kids Conference about what it really takes to support teenagers through one of the most complex stages of development. Drawing on decades of experience working with young people and families, Michelle shares a refreshing perspective on resilience, connection, and the evolving role of parents. From her early days working with at-risk youth to raising her own two sons, Michelle’s message is clear: resilience is not built in isolation—it is built in relationship. This episode challenges common parenting narratives and offers grounded, actionable insights into how we can stay connected to our kids while giving them the space they need to grow. Key Themes and Takeaways Resilience is not a solo effort: Kids don’t need to have all the skills—they need to know where to find them and who to trust The importance of community and connection as the foundation of resilience Why letting kids resolve conflict themselves builds stronger social and emotional capability Rethinking parenting labels like “helicopter” or “bulldozer” and instead focusing on principles over trends What teens aren’t telling parents: they don’t hate you—they need space to become themselves The power of trusting your instincts as a parent rather than interrogating for every detail Understanding the difference between bad behaviour and cognitive overload Why teenagers live in a near-constant state of dysregulation—and how that shapes their reactions The importance of staying steady, present, and available rather than forcing conversations The “roundabout” analogy: teens may appear to move away, but they often come back Why the car is one of the most powerful environments for connection and regulation The “Russian doll” concept: building multiple layers of support around a child Reframing resilience: not bouncing back, but adapting and reshaping through adversity The importance of helping kids develop their own coping strategies, not just adopting ours More About Michelle Michelle Mitchell is a leading Australian parenting educator, author, and speaker with over two decades of experience supporting young people and families. She began her career as a teacher before founding a youth-focused charity, working extensively with vulnerable and at-risk children. Michelle is widely known for her practical, no-nonsense approach to parenting teens and is the host of the Resilient Kids Conference, bringing together leading experts to support families navigating modern challenges. Resources Michelle Mitchell – Official Website Resilient Kids Conference Teens: What They Don’t Tell Their Parents Youth Excel (Michelle’s original charity work) Book: What Teenage Girls Don’t Tell Their Parents – Michelle Mitchell ******** Get in touch with Tim Curtis at kids@resilienceshield.com https://resilienceshield.com/kids/

  5. 11/13/2025

    Molly Benjamin- Money Smart Kids: Building Financial Resilience from Pocket Money to Property

    From piggy banks to pay gaps, Molly Benjamin shares practical ways to raise financially confident kids in a cashless, complex world.   Molly Benjamin is on a mission to make financial literacy accessible, practical, and empowering—especially for women and now, kids. After transforming her own “hot financial mess” into a thriving movement that’s educated 70,000+ Australian women, Molly is bringing the conversation to the next generation. As a spokesperson for Spriggy, she has deep insights into how kids earn, save, spend, and give—and how parents can raise resilient, financially confident children who are ready to thrive.   In This Episode Money Mindset Starts Young Molly explains how kids form their attitudes toward money by age seven—and how adult behaviours code that mindset. She shares why normalising conversations around spending, saving, and giving early matters, especially in a cashless society. “It’s not just what we say, it’s what we do around money. Kids are watching.” The Three Piggy Bank Rule Molly outlines her favourite financial framework for children—Spend, Save, Share—and explains how to use tools like Spriggy or Monopoly money to reinforce tangible learning about financial priorities and delayed gratification. Girls Out-Earning Boys? The FY25 Spriggy Kids Economy Report reveals that girls are earning $1.03 for every $1.00 boys earn—flipping the adult gender pay gap. What can this tell us about confidence, motivation, and resilience in young people? Money Mistakes Parents Make From over-rewarding chores to avoiding money conversations, Molly highlights the unconscious habits that may undermine a child’s financial resilience. “Money shouldn't be a taboo or secret. If they don’t learn it from us, they’re learning it somewhere else.” Financial Stress & The Future With house prices now 8–14 times the average wage, Molly discusses how we can prepare our kids for lifelong affordability pressures—through saving, investing, and open dialogue. “Even if you’ve never invested before, go on the journey with your child. Learn together.” Practical Tools to Build Confidence From setting savings goals to explaining superannuation and tax to teens, Molly shares strategies to raise informed, confident kids who won’t panic the first time they fail—or the first time they look at a budget.   Takeaways Financial resilience isn’t just about money—it’s about mindset. Teach saving before spending. Help kids delay gratification. Make chores part of life, not always tied to payment. Involve kids in financial conversations early and often. Model what you want to teach—especially around budgeting, insurance, super, and investing. Support teens to understand taxes, super, and compound interest when they get their first job.   Resources Mentioned Ladies Finance Club Spriggy Kids Economy Report Spriggy App Money Smart Tools (ASIC) Book:Raising Money Confident Kids (Molly Benjamin, 2025) Tool: “Super Detective” retirement checker See also research: Harvard, La Trobe, Spriggy, Stoicism, and Bobo Doll Experiments

  6. 10/30/2025

    Dr Louise Mansell – Clinical Psychologist, Innovator, Mum of Two Boys (and a Teddy Bear)

    Episode Subtitle: “Emotions, TED Talks & Teddies: Louise Mansell’s Mission to Build Brave Kids”   In this episode of Building Resilient Kids, host Tim Curtis is joined by Dr Louise Mansell, a clinical psychologist and founder of Tedology. Originally from the UK and now based in Perth, Louise brings a wealth of experience working with vulnerable children in care systems and mainstream settings. Louise shares insights into her personal upbringing, how her mother’s anxiety shaped her sense of responsibility and empathy, and what inspired her journey into psychology. She discusses the need for a whole-system approach to child development, the importance of working with schools and families, and how trauma-informed, compassionate care can change the course of a young life. The heart of the episode is Louise’s innovative creation: TED (Teddy for Emotional Development) – a science-based, sensory teddy bear that helps children regulate emotions, build resilience, and develop emotional literacy through play. From weighted limbs and textured paws to guided voice prompts based on proven psychological tools like CBT and DDP, TED is a cuddly co-regulator for kids. Louise reflects on parenting, teaching, and the daily challenge of applying psychology at home, candidly admitting her own occasional “screen bans” as a mother. Her honesty and evidence-based practice make this a must-listen for educators, parents, and anyone committed to raising emotionally resilient kids.   Highlights Louise’s early family life and how helping her mum manage anxiety set the foundations for her career Her work in the UK’s social enterprise sector, supporting children in the care system The biopsychosocial ecological model simplified for everyday parenting and teaching The development of TED: a sensory, talking teddy designed to build emotional skills and resilience Why kids need to feel seen, heard, and held in mind—and how a teddy bear can help Practical strategies for teachers to emotionally coach children without needing all the answers The power of emotional literacy and expression as central to long-term resilience The science behind TED’s features (fidget-friendly paws, crinkle ears, soothing voice prompts) Louise’s commitment to play-based learning and co-design with children Honest parenting moments: “If I shout about screen bans, it doesn’t count.”   Learn More Dr Louise Mansell's work: https://www.minimindshealth.com.au/louise-mansell Tedology (TED - Teddy for Emotional Development): https://tedology.com.au The ACEs Study (Adverse Childhood Experiences) – CDC Resource Tina Payne Bryson’s "Whole Brain Child" approach (Refer to books by Siegel & Bryson) Theraplay & DDP (Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy) – therapeutic models that Louise references as cornerstones in her clinical approach. https://ddpnetwork.org Quote of the Episode “Resilience isn’t about just coping. It’s about being brave enough to express yourself—and knowing someone will listen.” – Dr Louise Mansell

  7. 10/26/2025

    Anne- Marie (Curtis) Hicks – Fundraising Professional and Mum of 3, Parenting Children with Sotos Syndrome and Down Syndrome

    Joy, Diagnosis and the Village: Annie Hicks on Building Resilience in Kids with Disabilities In this deeply personal episode of Building Resilient Kids, host Tim Curtis speaks with his amazing cousin, Annie Hicks—a dedicated mother of three and a fundraising professional in the education sector—about what it means to raise resilient children, including two living with disabilities: Calvin (Sotos Syndrome and ADHD) and Lily (Down Syndrome). Annie opens up about the surprises and challenges of receiving a diagnosis, the evolving needs of her children, and how she and her husband Michael have navigated parenthood with intentionality, balance, and love. With candour and warmth, Annie discusses the power of community, the importance of self-care, and the need to be selectively selfish to model resilience for her kids. From managing emotional regulation through sensory tools, companion animals, and trampoline resets, to redesigning family expectations and slowing down to meet her children where they’re at, Annie offers practical wisdom for parents, carers, and educators alike. Also in this episode: The concept of wellbeing hubs and navigators in schools Parenting withopen communication and emotional availability The transformative role ofcanine and equine therapy Her superhero alter ego,‘Modulux’, imagined with the help of ChatGPT Insights from the blended family experience with Layla, her stepdaughter The critical role ofpositive self-talk and modelling resilience Annie’s heartfelt stories and honest reflections will resonate with anyone striving to raise strong, self-aware, and joyful kids; regardless of ability.   Resources & Further Reading: Annie Hicks on LinkedIn:com/in/anne-marie-hicks-8b55a284 Sotos Syndrome(Medline Plus): https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/sotos-syndrome/ Down Syndrome Overview(Wikipedia): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Down_syndrome Carly Findlay – Author and Disability Advocate:https://carlyfindlay.com.au/ The Book:Growing Up Disabled in Australia, edited by Carly Findlay Hannah Diviney – Writer, Speaker & Advocate:https://hannahdiviney.com/ Guide Dogs WA – Companion Dog Program:https://www.guidedogswa.com.au/ Amaroo Equine Therapy (Belinda Muiser):https://www.amarooequine.com.au

  8. 10/09/2025

    Marty Doolan – NSW Firefighter, Outdoor Educator, Father of 2, Shaping Resilience through Risk and Reflection

    Episode Sub-title: Breathe, Climb, Adapt: Marty Doolan on Nature’s Role in Raising Strong Kids Episode Show Notes In this episode of the Building Resilient Kids podcast, host Tim Curtis speaks with Marty Doolan — a NSW Fire and Rescue firefighter, outdoor educator, father of two, and lifelong adventurer. Marty shares reflections from years spent guiding young people in the wild and responding to emergencies on the front line. His insights draw from two high-stakes domains — firefighting and outdoor education — and reveal what these worlds can teach us about how kids build emotional strength, courage, and problem-solving skills. This is a wide-ranging conversation on nature, parenting, discomfort, and self-regulation — with practical wisdom for parents, teachers, and coaches helping kids find their inner footing. Key Themes and Takeaways Growing up in the bush and how early immersion in nature shaped Marty’s identity and career Why outdoor education is less about physical strength and more about mindset, courage, and emotion The link between perceived risk, real growth, and meaningful challenge in controlled environments What firefighting taught Marty about pressure, calmness, and presence under stress Regulating emotions through breath, routine, and team support How parents can let kids struggle safely without rescuing them too quickly The importance of modelling vulnerability, reflection, and honest emotion Peer influence in outdoor programs: how leadership, encouragement, and language shape group dynamics Making space for curiosity, play, and growth without expectation or pressure More About Marty Marty Doolan is a full-time firefighter with NSW Fire and Rescue, and a part-time outdoor educator. He spent years guiding in the Blue Mountains and taught outdoor leadership to young adults before transitioning into emergency services. Now a father of two young children, Marty continues to apply his knowledge of risk, resilience, and human performance to both professional and family life. He brings an open, self-aware, and experience-driven perspective to the conversation around how kids grow stronger through challenge. Resources NSW Fire and Rescue https://www.fire.nsw.gov.au Outward Bound Australia (example of programs similar to those discussed) https://www.outwardbound.org.au The Resilience Shield – Model referenced throughout the episode https://resilienceshield.com Nature Play Australia – Encouraging unstructured outdoor play https://www.natureplay.org.au Project Rockit – Building peer support and leadership in youth https://www.projectrockit.com.au Breathwork Australia – Understanding breath as a regulation tool https://www.breathworkaustralia.com.au

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About

Tim Curtis spent his first career in the elite SAS, but somehow, parenting remains his toughest mission yet. A self-confessed “average father” and not an expert in much related to kids, he’s on a quest to answer a question that parents, teachers, coaches, and pretty much every adult has asked him: ”How do we build resilience in kids?” From the bestselling co-author of The Resilience Shield and co-host of The Unforgiving60, this podcast dives into the science and stories behind resilience—minus the fluff. Tim brings in world-class experts, unpacks practical tools, and shares real-life insights to help the whole village (that’s you!) raise kids who can handle life’s curveballs. If you’ve ever wondered how to help your kids bounce back, stress less, and grow into kind, confident young adults—without the usual parenting clichés—this is the podcast for you. Buckle up, it’s time to Build Resilient Kids!

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