Growing Hearts Podcast

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:  

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Find out more about the Pared Foundation: visit our website  


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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

In this episode, we explore the transformative power of truth, honesty, and authenticity in family life and personal growth. Our guest, Sr Mariam, a Dominican Sister of Saint Cecilia and alumni at Tangara School for Girls in Sydney, shares her personal vocation story and her insights into how truth — lived with love — brings freedom, healing, and deeper relationships. 

The conversation reflects on the role of honesty in the home, the importance of authentic relationships between parents and children, and how living in truth shapes character and fosters holiness in everyday life. Sr Mariam explains how even difficult truths, when communicated with love, can become opportunities for growth and trust. 

Drawing from her experience in education and spiritual formation, she highlights the family as a privileged place where children learn sincerity, integrity, and self-gift. The discussion encourages parents to model authenticity, create spaces of trust, and guide children toward a deeper understanding of who they are and who they are called to be. 

 

Key Topics Discussed: 

1. The freedom of living in truth – paths towards healing relationships and a real grow in authenticity and holiness.  

2. Honesty in family life – the primary place where children learn sincerity, trust, and how to relate to others with authenticity. 

3. Forming character through virtue - living truthfully helps shape character, strengthen relationships, and develop personal integrity. 

4. Authenticity in relationships - genuine encounters — marked by openness and trust — create the conditions for growth and deeper connection. 

 
 

Join the Conversation 

Living in truth can sometimes feel challenging, yet it opens the door to freedom, trust, and deeper relationships. This episode invites us to reflect on how honesty shapes our family culture and how authenticity helps children grow in confidence and character. 

How do you create an environment of openness and trust at home?  


What does living authentically look like in your family life?  


In what ways do you model sincerity and integrity for your children? 


How can we communicate difficult truths with love? 


We'd love to hear your insights and experiences. Join the conversation and share how your family nurtures honesty, trust, and authentic relationships. 

 

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, Claire and John Wall join us to share their experiences, favorite traditions, and insights on keeping Christ at the center of Christmas while managing the busyness of family life with young children. They offer practical tips for blending Catholic traditions with family celebrations, emphasizing ways to encourage generosity, kindness, and a spirit of gratitude throughout the holiday season. 

We'd love to hear your Christmas traditions! How do you keep your celebrations Christ-centered? Do you have unique ways of helping your family focus on the true meaning of the season? Share with us on social media with #GrowingHeartsPodcast or send us a message! 

Recommended book:
God has Made a Bethlehem
 

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