The Fathering Project Podcast

How do we help our kids stay safe without making them fearful of the world? In this episode, Dr James Brown speaks with former police officer, child safety expert and online safety specialist Kristi McVee about the practical things parents can do to help protect their children – both online and offline. Drawing on 10 years as a specialist child interviewer and Detective Senior Constable, Kristi shares what parents need to know about body safety, consent, boundaries, grooming and the risks children can encounter online. They also explore why child safety isn't about having one big conversation. It’s about building trust, keeping communication open and making sure our kids know they can always come to us when something doesn’t feel right. In this episode: Starting age-appropriate conversations about body safety and consent Understanding grooming behaviours and warning signs Navigating online safety and digital risks Creating a relationship where children feel safe to speak up Why parents don’t need to have all the perfect words A practical and important conversation for parents and carers about helping children feel safe, confident and supported.

Fresh from being named 2026 Australian Father of the Year, Matt “Matty J” Johnson joins Dr James Brown for a raw, funny and honest chat about life as a dad of three. Matt opens up about the highs and challenges of fatherhood, the memories he hopes his daughters will carry with them, what they’ve taught him, and the kind of role model he wants to be. He also reflects on Two Doting Dads, the community he’s built with co-host Ash Wicks, and why creating space for dads to talk honestly about parenting — including the messy and difficult parts — matters. A warm and relatable conversation about modern fatherhood, showing up and accepting that none of us gets it right all the time.

What actually happens when you become a dad — and realise you have absolutely no idea what you’re doing? To kick off Season 3 of The Fathering Project Podcast , Dr James Brown sits down with screenwriter, author and first-time dad Zachary Perez for an honest conversation about the early days of fatherhood: the identity shift, the expectations, the uncertainty, the funny moments and the things no one really prepares you for. Zachary is the author of Becoming Dad , a candid account of his first 100 days as a father, written in real time as he navigated life with a new baby. Together, James and Zachary unpack the gap between the dad you imagine you’ll be and the reality once your baby arrives — and why figuring it out as you go might actually be the point. They talk about: How becoming a dad can change your sense of identity Expectations vs reality in those first few months The pressure dads can feel to know what they’re doing Friendship, loneliness and finding your tribe as a new dad Asking for help — and why dads need support too Taking what you learnt from your own upbringing while deciding what you want to do differently Why being a good dad isn’t about having all the answers Whether you’re expecting your first child, deep in the newborn haze or a few years down the track, this episode is a reminder that there’s no perfect way to become a dad. You learn. You adapt. You keep showing up. Listen to Season 3 of The Fathering Project Podcast.

How do fathers help guide boys into adulthood in today’s complex world? CEO of The Fathering Project Káti Gapaillard speaks with Dr Arne Rubinstein, Founder and CEO of the Rites of Passage Institute, and Australian Father of the Year 2025 about why boys need connected fathers, clear boundaries, and meaningful rites of passage to grow into strong, grounded men.

In this special episode to celebrate International Women’s Day on Sunday March 8th, Káti Gapaillard sits down with educator and bestselling author Michelle Mitchell to explore a topic many dads quietly struggle with — puberty and periods. While puberty is a normal and healthy part of growing up, it can still feel awkward or off-limits for fathers. Many assume it’s a conversation best left to mums. But when dads show up with calm, confidence and respect, they can become a powerful source of reassurance and safety during this stage of their daughter’s life. Michelle Mitchell — widely known as “the teenage expert” — brings more than 20 years of experience supporting families through the tween and teen years. In this conversation, she shares practical strategies to help fathers break the taboo, strengthen trust, and build a lasting connection with their daughters.

We're excited to welcome former ABC Broadcaster Geoff Hutchison to the podcast. Geoff joins us to talk about the personal journey behind his new book How Not to Become a Grumpy Old Bugger . He shares a powerful conversation with his father that changed everything, and what he hopes men will take away from the book. An honest and open conversation about masculinity, fatherhood, relationship and living an optimistic life as we age. A great conversation that will get you thinking. Thinking of Christmas gifts? Go purchase the book for your local bookstore.

In this episode, Lael Stone joins us to discuss how parents can nurture emotional intelligence in their kids – even if they’re still learning those skills themselves. Lael has worked with families for over 20 years as a birth educator, post-natal trauma counsellor, and parenting educator. She's worked with thousands of families – from newborns through to the teen years – and spent over five years in secondary schools working with teens around sexuality, wellbeing and relationships. Lael is also the creator of Woodline Primary School, a groundbreaking school centred on emotional wellbeing. Her bestselling first book Raising Resilient and Compassionate Children has helped transform how parents connect with their kids, and her upcoming second book Own Your Story will be released in July 2025.

John Pearce, known to many as one of the Purple Wiggles, has spent years entertaining and educating children through song and movement. But today, we're diving into his most personal role yet - fatherhood! In this episode we talk about what it’s been like adjusting to life with an infant, balancing a demanding touring schedule, and the moments that have surprised, challenged, and changed him along the way. If you've just become a dad, on the journey to becoming one, or thinking about fatherhood – have a listen! The Wiggles are going on their National Tour starting in November 2025! If you have a little Wiggles fan, don't miss out on securing your tickets – new shows have been added in most states: https://thewiggles.com/live

In this episode we sit down with former Brumbies and Wallabies star Ben Alexander. We'll be diving into Ben’s journey, from life on the rugby field to life after footy – and how becoming a father to three daughters has reshaped his perspective on success, balance, and what it really means to be a role model. We’ll also hear about the powerful work he’s doing now through his 'Running for Resilience' initiative, helping to raise awareness for mental health and suicide prevention. Learn more about Running for Resilience at: https://www.runningforresilience.com/

In this episode, Káti Gapaillard sits down with singer, performer, and proud Gamilaraay man Mitch Tambo – one of Australia’s most distinctive First Nations voices and a powerful force for cultural pride and self-expression. With ten consecutive Top 10 singles on the Australian iTunes Worldwide charts and a global following, Mitch has made an impact far beyond the stage. But today, the spotlight is on fatherhood. Mitch opens up about raising four daughters in a blended family, what inspired his new children’s book I AM ME , and how he’s helping the next generation embrace their identity with confidence and pride. This is a warm, honest conversation about parenting with purpose, staying true to yourself, and the beauty of encouraging children to do the same.

In this episode we explore how parents can create a rich learning environment at home, the surprising power of play, how to manage screen time, and the key to balancing it all without feeling overwhelmed. Dr. Alistair Bryce-Clegg is an internationally recognised author, early years consultant, and speaker, known for his innovative, child-centered approach to learning. His books, including Best Practice in the Early Years , have become essential reading for parents and educators alike ­– and has transformed how parents and educators approach early learning! If you’ve ever wondered how to turn everyday moments into powerful learning experiences for your child, this episode is for you.

In this episode we are joined by Prof. Andrew Whitehouse from CliniKids at The Kids Research Institute who has been a guiding light for parents navigating the complexities of autism, and in this episode we dive into one of the most important aspects of that journey – communication. Whether your child has just been diagnosed or you’re looking for new ways to connect, this conversation will provide understanding, support, and practical strategies. About Andrew: He is the Deputy Research Director at The Kids Research Institute Australia, where he also leads CliniKids – a national network, embedding clinical trials into everyday care for children with neurodevelopmental differences. He has published over 300 scientific papers, attracted more than $80 million in research funding, and presents the international video series 60 Second Science . He is a Eureka Prize winner, a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences, was named Western Australian of the Year in 2023 and, in 2024 was inducted as a Fellow to the International Society for Autism Research!

In this episode Káti Gapaillard sits down with AFL Premiership player and father Zach Tuohy for a heartfelt conversation that goes beyond the footy field. From becoming a dad at 23 while building an elite sporting career, to navigating his mental health and parenting far from home, Zach shares openly about the challenges and joys of fatherhood. He reflects on how his Irish heritage shaped his values, how he and his partner parent as a team, and what he hopes other dads take from his journey. This is an honest, reflective chat about identity, vulnerability, and showing up for your kids. Zach also shares about his book The Irish Experiment, if you haven't already, grab yourself a copy: https://www.simonandschuster.com.au/books/The-Irish-Experiment/Zach-Tuohy/9781923022096 If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to hit subscribe on your preferred podcast app so we can continue to bring you legendary guests like Zach!

We are excited to be joined by Youth Advocate and Educator Daniel Principe. Having presented to tens of thousands of young people in every Australian state and territory, Daniel is no stranger to the complex challenges presented in a teen boy’s world today. Daniel’s work is about giving young men the tools to critically think about identity, masculinity, and the media messages they’re bombarded with. In this episode we unpack what is currently going in in a teen boy's world today, how social media is shaping their world and the messages they're hearing and masculinity. An episode not to miss, packed with incredible insights. Learn more about Daniel here: https://www.danielprincipe.com.au/

The tween years (roughly ages 8–12) are a critical time for brain development, emotional growth, and identity formation. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Steve Kassem, a neuroscientist specialising in brain development, to explore what’s happening inside the tween brain and how parents can navigate this pivotal stage. From understanding mood swings to fostering independence while maintaining strong connections, Dr. Kassem shares the science behind tween behaviour and offers practical strategies to support your child’s emotional, social and cognitive growth before they enter the teenage years. Tune in for insights that will help you build a deeper bond with your tween and set the foundation for a positive adolescence!

In this episode, we dive into a crucial and timely topic – gender equity and masculinity in the workplace. We explore how workplaces can foster environments that challenge traditional notions of masculinity, while also promoting gender equity in a way that includes men as part of the solution, not just the conversation. Our guest Ludo Gabriele is a thought leader and consultant, based in New York, who helps organisations connect men to gender equity, effectively. His work centres on engaging men in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, while addressing the common disconnects that can arise between men and these initiatives. An interesting discussion which will have you re-framing the way you think about masculinity, especially in the workplace and society as a whole. Learn more about Ludo here: https://www.ludogabriele.com/about Access more resources like this on The Fathering Channel: https://thefatheringproject.org/fathering-channel/

In this episode, we're joined by Gen Muir from Connected Parenting. We discuss parenting in the modern world and supporting your children’s big feelings and emotions. The episode is packed with actionable tips and strategies to help you manage your child’s big emotions and challenging behaviour without feeling like you’re ‘losing control’. This episode will explore: The current landscape of parenting in 2024 How fathering has evolved and their role in supporting their child's emotions and behaviour Top three tips for dads to help them navigate their child's big feelings Strategies to stay united on discipline and emotional support for their kids Learn more about Gen and her work here: https://www.connectedparenting.com.au/ Visit The Fathering Channel to access more parenting resources: https://thefatheringproject.org/fathering-channel/

In this episode, we explore a critical yet often overlooked phase of parenting: the 5-10 year window. While the first five years are widely recognised as foundational for a child’s development, many parents may not realise that the 5-10 years are just as crucial. This period paves the way for smoother teen years and sets the stage for successful adulthood. We’re joined by Dr. Norman Swan, who will discuss insights from his new book So You Want to Know What's Good for your Kids? , where he highlights the importance of these formative years and shares practical advice for guiding your children through this key stage of growth. Don't miss this valuable conversation about how to navigate and make the most of this pivotal time in your child's life. Purchase Norman's book here: https://www.hachette.com.au/dr-norman-swan/so-you-want-to-know-whats-good-for-your-kids-the-ultimate-parenting-guide-on-what-matters-from-birth-to-ten-by-one-of-australias-most-trusted-doctors Access more practical tips and advice on The Fathering Channel: https://thefatheringproject.org/fathering-channel/ As a not-for-profit, The Fathering Project relies on the generosity of our followers and audience to continue our mission of supporting children and families across Australia, so no child goes without an engaged and positive father or father figure. If you liked this episode we encourage you to make a tax-deductible donation: https://thefatheringproject.org/donate/

One of our most commonly asked about topics is how parents can keep their kids safe online. The digital world is constantly changing, and navigating it as a parent can often be challenging. We want the best for our children, and their online safety must be a top priority. In this episode we are joined by the e-Safety Commissioner to chat all things digital safety. We will discuss the digital footprint and why it’s important for children to understand the concept, what potential risks parents should be aware of, as well as tips to keeping our kids safe online.

We are thrilled to welcome back our friend and renowned Australian best-selling author, activist and psychologist, Steve Biddulph. If you're someone who experiences anxiety, or have had anxious feelings and not entirely sure how to address them, we encourage you to listen to this episode. Steve talks us through what he refers to as our "Wild Creature Mind", and how we can leverage it and use it to our advantage when experiencing anxiety. Steve also shares some strategies for adults and children, and how he has used them in his day to day life to help him overcome anxious feelings. Wild Creature Mind is also the name of his new book which is due to be released on August 22nd. You can pre-order it from: https://www.panmacmillan.com.au/9781761560781/