Growing Hearts Podcast

What does it really mean to live a generous life—and why does it matter for our happiness? 

In this episode, we speak with Michael Mendieta, Chief Advancement Officer at the Pared Foundation and father of six, about how generosity, faith, and stepping out of our comfort zones are deeply connected to purpose and fulfilment. Drawing from his personal journey, work in philanthropy, and family life, Michael shares how a "giving spirit" isn't just about money - it's about how we live, love, and show up daily. From finding God in ordinary moments to building a culture of generosity at home, this conversation offers practical insights for families navigating busy, modern life. 

Discussion points:

Living generously, especially beyond comfort, leads to deeper fulfilment by aligning daily life with purpose and faith. 

Faith becomes real when it is lived in ordinary moments, where small intentional actions shape a meaningful relationship with God. 


The family is the primary place where generosity is learned through everyday acts like patience, presence, and sharing. 


Creating space for hospitality and shared time with others strengthens connection, joy, and a sense of belonging in busy modern life. 


True generosity is sustained by balance, where intentional rest allows individuals and families to keep giving without burnout. 


Join the Conversation 

What does generosity look like in your family right now? 


What's one small way you can step out of your comfort zone this week? 


How can you create more space for meaningful connection at home? 


When was the last time you invited someone into your everyday life? 


We'd love to hear from you—share your thoughts, stories, or family practices as we continue growing together. 

You can:  

Follow us on Instagram @growingheartspodcast  


Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website  


Discover our schools by visiting: pared.edu.au/openday  


Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes

The university years bring new freedoms, new friendships, and often new challenges to living the faith. In this episode, Denis Setiyo shares practical insights on navigating faith during this important stage of life, from dealing with peer pressure and setbacks to building a personal relationship with God. Together, we explore how parents can continue to support their children through these transitions with prayer, example, and trust.
Discussion Points
Common faith challenges faced by university students
Why faith grows through both understanding and practice
Navigating peer pressure, independence, and personal responsibility
How parents can support young adults without trying to control them
The power of prayer and example in family life
Helping young people find their way back when they feel they've drifted from their faith
The role of spiritual direction, confession, and trusted mentors
Why vulnerability is often the first step towards growth
Sharing faith authentically in a university environment
Join the Conversation
What has helped your child stay connected to their faith during times of transition?
You can:  

Follow us on Instagram @growingheartspodcast  


Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website  


Discover our schools by visiting: pared.edu.au/openday  


Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes

What happens when children begin to spread their wings — moving from primary school to high school, into university, and eventually the workforce? How can parents support growing independence while helping young people stay grounded in their faith? 

In this episode of Growing Hearts, we speak with Denis Setiyo — healthcare professional, mentor, and old boy of Redfield College — about navigating life's major transitions and the role parents play in helping young people grow through seasons of change. Together we unpack some challenges young people face during these transitions, including growing responsibility, time management, freedom, and character growth. 

Denis shares practical habits that have helped him — fitness, faith, and family — and reflects on what can provide stability during seasons of growth and uncertainty. This episode offers practical wisdom for supporting young people as they navigate new stages of life, grow in responsibility, and take meaningful steps into adulthood with purpose and confidence. 

Key Topics Discussed: 

Parents' role in supporting independence through life transitions

The importance of trust and healthy dialogue

Letting children grow through responsibility

Living faith through changing seasons

Navigating the transition to university life



Join the Conversation 

Growing up involves increasing independence, responsibility, and confidence, while still feeling supported and connected at home. This episode invites us to reflect on how we can accompany young people through these transitions and help them build resilience, character, and faith in everyday life.
You can:  

Follow us on Instagram @growingheartspodcast  


Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website  


Discover our schools by visiting: pared.edu.au/openday  


Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes

In this episode of Growing Hearts, Fr. Paul and Fr. Phil explore the deep connection between a child's relationship with their parents and their understanding of God. They discuss the weight of expectations—how children internalise them, how they shape their sense of self-worth, and how parents can navigate them in a healthy way. 

At the heart of the conversation is the theme of hope, inspired by last year's Jubilee message: A Hope That Does Not Disappoint. The discussion dives into false hopes, the dangers of misplaced expectations, and the true foundation of hope—God's grace. 

 
You can:  

Follow us on Instagram @growingheartspodcast  

Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website  

Discover our schools by visiting: pared.edu.au/openday  

Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes

What if our limitations weren't something to fight—but something to receive?
In this episode, we are joined by psychologist and mother of five, Katherine McFarlane, to explore the reality of coming up against our limits in life and in parenting. Together, we unpack how these moments—of impatience, exhaustion, and vulnerability—can become opportunities for growth, deeper relationships, and greater reliance on God.
With practical wisdom and honest insights, this conversation invites parents to see their limitations not as failures, but as part of the path to love.
Key Topics Discussed:
Reframing limitations as "skills not yet learned"
The connection between our weaknesses and our gifts
Why asking for help is essential in family life
The role of faith and stillness (Martha & Mary) in daily parenting
Recognising physical and emotional limits
Supporting each other as spouses and modelling this for children
Letting go of perfection and embracing the mess of family life
Join the Conversation 

You can:  

Follow us on Instagram @growingheartspodcast  


Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website  


Discover our schools by visiting: pared.edu.au/openday  


Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE/FOLLOW so you don't miss out on any of our future episodes