Episodios

  • 23. What Makes Sibling Relationships So Important?

    23. What Makes Sibling Relationships So Important?
    Jun 2 2025
    In this heartwarming and laughter-filled episode, Ponch sits down with two sisters, Lucia "Cia" and Anica, to explore the beautiful (and sometimes chaotic!) reality of growing up in a family of four daughters. Together, they reflect on the shared memories, road trips, dinner table conversations, and life lessons that shaped them. From pillow forts and Macca’s breakfasts to intentional parenting and the power of saying “I’m sorry,” this episode dives deep into how family culture, communication, and individual respect laid the foundation for strong sibling bonds and personal growth. Whether you’re a parent, sibling, or just someone reflecting on your own upbringing, this episode will remind you that the little moments—when approached with love, presence, and intention—are what ultimately form the strongest family ties. Discussion Points: How everyday moments like family meals, road trips, and kitchen time can become lasting sources of connection and joy. Exploring how a home filled with four sisters stayed grounded through open dialogue, mutual support, and intentional parenting. The normal ups and downs of sibling life, and how choosing to say sorry and forgive quickly helps preserve relationships. Why it matters when children, especially teen, feel their opinions and feelings are genuinely considered—whether it’s choosing a house or navigating social situations. How doing chores, being relied on, and helping one another builds a sense of ownership and unity within the family. Celebrating the beauty of unique personalities and different career paths—all nurtured under one roof without comparisons or competition. Join the Conversation We’d love to hear from you! What are some of your favorite childhood memories with your siblings or family? Have you experienced moments when your parents (or you as a parent) made space for dialogue and understanding? How do you encourage individuality while keeping family unity strong? 🎧 Share your thoughts with us on social media or send us a message—we might feature your story in a future episode! 💬 Message us on Instagram @growingheartspodcast  📩 Or send us an email at paredacademy@pared.edu.au 👩‍👧‍👦 Know a parent who needs to hear this? Share the episode! You can:  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 
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    40 m
  • 22. How Can We Help Teenagers Find Their Identity in Christ?

    22. How Can We Help Teenagers Find Their Identity in Christ?
    May 14 2025
    In this episode of the Growing Hearts Podcast, we delve into the challenges and opportunities of nurturing faith during the teenage years. Our special guest, Seb James, shares his personal journey and insights from his extensive experience working with teenagers. Seb, a journalist and director of the Nairana Study Centre, discusses the importance of faith, the role of parents and mentors, and how to support teenagers in their spiritual and personal growth. Discussion Points: Challenges Teenagers Face Today: Identity and the need for unconditional love. Influence of social media, technology, and peer pressure. Helping young people understand their true identity and worth as children of God. Role of Parents and Mentors: Building loving and trusting relationships with teenagers. Setting boundaries and providing guidance. Importance of fathers spending quality time with their sons. Support Systems for Teenagers: Seb shares the activities and intentional programs offered at Nairana Study Centre, including: Optimal Work Sessions Study time Community Service trips and Local service initiatives Openness at the Study Centre Seb acknowledges that some parents may have concerns or questions—and that's a good thing: “It is okay to have worries and doubts—it is a very natural thing. We want parents to be very concerned; they need to know what we are doing.” To foster this trust, Nairana organises regular events to engage with parents: “That’s why in these places we have a lot of days or activities where we get parents to come and we try to explain what we are trying to do. For example, at the end of every school term, we have a night where we explain what Opus Dei is (…)” For families of all backgrounds: “We believe also, if you are non-Christian or Catholic, that these activities will help your son grow in virtue, become a man of character.” He warmly invites parents to engage in person: “If you have doubts or concerns, please come and visit us. I’m very happy to sit and talk.” Resources Mentioned Nairana Study Centre Mirrabooka Study Centre Optimal Work Join the Conversation We'd love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Share your experiences and insights on nurturing faith during the teenage years. How have you supported your teenagers in their spiritual and personal growth? What challenges have you faced, and what strategies have worked for you? Join the conversation on our social media channels or leave a comment on our website. 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 
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    46 m
  • 21. What Strengthens a Mother's Heart?

    21. What Strengthens a Mother's Heart?
    May 5 2025
    In this special May episode of the Growing Hearts Podcast, Ponch Sahagun is joined by mum, mentor, and Tangara alumni Tamara El-Rahi for a heartfelt conversation on motherhood. From the unexpected shifts that come with becoming a mum, to the quiet strength and inspiration we can draw from Our Lady, this episode dives deep into the emotional, spiritual, and practical realities of raising children today. Honest, funny, and moving—this conversation is an uplifting companion for mothers navigating the highs and lows of daily life. Video Mentioned: Watch the video about the Wedding Feast at Cana referenced in this episode. Event: A MOTHER’S HEART - A Day of Reflection for Women Join the Conversation We’d love to hear how motherhood has changed you, what role your faith plays in your daily parenting, or what part of this episode resonated most. 💬 Message us on Instagram @GrowingHeartsPodcast 👩‍👧‍👦 Know a mum who needs to hear this? Share the episode! 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 
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    36 m
  • 20. What’s It Like to Discover Catholicism for the First Time?

    20. What’s It Like to Discover Catholicism for the First Time?
    Apr 21 2025
    In this episode, we welcome Matt Unicomb to share his powerful conversion story. From growing up in a secular household to discovering the Catholic faith, Matt takes us through the pivotal moments that led him to embrace Christianity. Through intellectual exploration, deep personal reflection, and the influence of his wife, family, and mentors, Matt's journey is one of humility, truth-seeking, and transformation. Resources Mentioned: Ross Douthat’s article: A Guide to Finding Faith St. John Paul II: Veritatis Splendour Connect with Matt: Podcast: Human Ecology 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 
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    31 m
  • 19. Fr. Paul & Fr Phil: What Do You Hope For?

    19. Fr. Paul & Fr Phil: What Do You Hope For?
    Apr 7 2025

    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 te heart of the conversation is the theme of hope, inspired by the Jubilee Year’s 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 

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    24 m
  • 18. Fr. Paul & Fr. Phil: What’s in the Core of Your Heart?

    18. Fr. Paul & Fr. Phil: What’s in the Core of Your Heart?
    Mar 24 2025
    In this episode, Father Paul and Father Phil dive into a profound and often misunderstood topic—the heart. Drawing from Pope Francis' letter Dilexit nos, they explore what it truly means to have a heart, why it’s central to our faith, and how we can help form the hearts of our children. With humour, personal stories, and deep theological insights, our chaplains discuss how the heart is more than just emotions—it’s the place where we encounter God. 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 
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    29 m
  • 17. Fr. Paul & Fr. Phil: What's the Deal With Lent?

    17. Fr. Paul & Fr. Phil: What's the Deal With Lent?
    Mar 10 2025
    In this episode, Father Phil Elias, Chaplain of Redfield College, is joined by Father Paul Muller from Tangara. Together, they dive into the season of Lent, exploring its meaning and how we can prepare our hearts for a deeper encounter with Jesus. They discuss common ideas like give up or offering up things for Lent and how this seasons isn’t just about sacrifice but about drawing closer to God. Through personal anecdotes—including Father Paul’s love for tennis—they highlight the importance of keeping our focus on Christ, much like keeping an eye on the ball in sports. Join them as they unpack practical ways to approach fasting, almsgiving, and prayer with joy, ensuring that our Lenten journey leads us to a true transformation of heart. Other Resources: Podcast Crash Course Catholicism: Lent and Easter 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 
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    23 m
  • 16. Why is Baptism More Than Just a Tradition?

    16. Why is Baptism More Than Just a Tradition?
    Feb 24 2025
    In this episode, we welcome Dr Andy Mullins to explore the profound meaning of Baptism and its impact on our lives as Christians. Dr Mullins shares his insights on why Baptism is the foundation of our faith journey, the responsibilities it entails for parents, and how we can foster a deeper appreciation of this sacrament in our families. Whether you're a new parent preparing for your child's Baptism or seeking to rekindle your own understanding, this conversation will inspire you to embrace this divine calling with renewed faith and purpose. Book: Parenting For Faith by Andrew Mullins 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 
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    23 m
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