Your School Journey is a podcast bringing school-related topics into focus for parents. Together, we’ll demystify what’s happening in education and provide practical advice for supporting your child’s growth.
Your School Journey is an initiative of Emmanuel College as part of our commitment to partner with parents in shaping the learning and growth of young people.
#20 - When is the right time to give your child a smartphone?
In this episode of Your School Journey, Emmanuel College Principal Dan Brown sits down with Jessica Mendoza-Roth, co-founder and Chair of Wait Mate, to explore one of the increasingly difficult decisions facing parents: when is the right time to give your child a smartphone?
Drawing on her work with families and schools across Australia, Jessica shares how Wait Mate is helping parents overcome the pressure of “everyone else has one” by giving families the opportunity to delay smartphones together. They discuss why belonging and connection are so important for young people, and how strength in numbers can make it easier for parents to say “not yet” without their child feeling left behind.
The conversation explores the impact smartphones can have on childhood, from sleep, focus and wellbeing to the opportunity for young people to build friendships, resilience and independence in the real world. Jessica also unpacks practical alternatives to smartphones, the importance of allowing children to develop problem-solving skills, and the role schools and families can play in creating a culture where delaying becomes the norm.
This is a thoughtful and practical conversation for parents and educators navigating technology and childhood, offering a different perspective on what it means to keep young people connected while giving them the time and space to grow, build real-world relationships and experience childhood beyond the screen.
6 Sept 2026
#19 - Supporting the move to Adulthood
In this episode of Your School Journey, guest host and Year 12 student Ivy sits down with Jess Dyson (Redefined Coaching) to explore the move from school into adulthood and how young people and their families can navigate this important stage of life.
Drawing on her experience as a social worker, therapist and mental health coach, Jess shares insights into why leaving school can bring excitement, uncertainty and even a sense of loss. Together, they discuss the pressure young people can feel to have their future figured out, the changing nature of friendships and routines, and why it is okay not to know exactly what comes next.
The conversation explores how young people can build resilience, recognise and manage difficult thoughts and emotions, and develop the confidence to take greater responsibility for their own lives. Jess also discusses the changing role of parents, including the importance of stepping back, allowing young people to make their own decisions and sometimes fail, while remaining a safe and supportive presence when they need it.
This is a thoughtful and practical conversation for young people and parents approaching the end of the school journey, offering reassurance that adulthood doesn't require having everything figured out, but rather the confidence, support and resilience to navigate whatever comes next.
12 Jul 2026
#18 - Helping Children Feel Seen, Heard and Valued
In this episode of Your School Journey, Mal Galer sits down with Jess Robertson (Journey Together) to explore one of the most important needs in every child’s life: feeling seen, heard and valued.
Drawing on her work supporting children and families, Jess shares insights into the power of connection, belonging and emotional safety in a child’s development. Together, they discuss how strong relationships help children build confidence, resilience and a healthy sense of identity, both at home and at school.
The conversation explores practical ways parents can strengthen connection with their children through everyday interactions, meaningful conversations and intentional presence. Jess also unpacks the challenges many families face in a busy world and offers simple strategies to help children feel understood, supported and genuinely known.
This is a thoughtful and encouraging conversation for parents and educators who want to create environments where children can thrive, knowing they are valued not simply for what they achieve, but for who they are.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Spotify
5.0 / 5
8 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 9 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
4
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
32
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Guest appearances
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