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Parenting and Family Wellbeing Expert Dr. Rosina McAlpine Interviewed on Parenting Shrink Wrapped What if the struggle to “balance it all” is not something you are failing at, but rather something the system was never designed to support? In this powerful episode of Parenting Shrink Wrapped, parenting expert Dr. Rosina McAlpine shares a deeply relatable and research-backed perspective on the realities of modern parenting. From the moment she became a mother, she realized that even highly capable professionals can feel completely unprepared for the demands of raising a child, especially while managing a career. The Reality of Parenting Today This conversation goes beyond surface-level advice. It reveals why traditional workplace wellbeing programs often miss the mark for working parents. The expectation to “work like you do not have a family and parent like you do not work” is simply unsustainable. As parents, we often feel torn between our responsibilities at home and our commitments at work. This tension can lead to stress and burnout. But what if we could shift our perspective? What if we could find a way to integrate our roles instead of feeling like we must choose one over the other? Practical Insights for Families Listeners will gain practical insights into what truly supports families. Dr. Rosina shares simple but effective strategies that can make a big difference. She emphasizes the importance of community and introduces a refreshing reframe from “self-care” to being “selfful.” Being “selfful” means recognizing our needs and taking proactive steps to meet them. It’s about filling our own cups so we can better support our families. This shift in mindset can lead to a more balanced and fulfilling life. Building Family-Friendly Workplaces The discussion also introduces a clear five-step framework for organizations to become genuinely family-friendly. This framework encourages a shift from reactive support to meaningful prevention. When workplaces prioritize family needs, everyone benefits. Employees feel valued and supported, which leads to increased loyalty and productivity. It’s a win-win situation. The Emotional Impact of Support What stands out most is the emotional impact of feeling seen, valued, and supported. Parents want to feel acknowledged in their struggles. When they do, everything changes—from wellbeing to workplace loyalty. If you are a parent navigating daily pressures, or a leader wanting to build a healthier, more supportive culture, this episode offers both validation and practical direction. Conclusion: Embracing the Journey of Parenting Parenting is a journey filled with ups and downs. It’s essential to remember that we are not alone in this experience. By seeking support and embracing community, we can navigate the challenges together. Let’s empower ourselves and each other with practica l, research-based strategies. Together, we can create a nurturing environment for our children to thrive. If you want to dive deeper into this conversation, check out the full episode here.

Parenting and Family Wellbeingexpert Dr Rosina McAlpine interviewed on ABC Radio Are firstborns natural leaders, middle children overlooked, and youngest siblings the carefree charmers? In this lively radio interview, Dr Rosina McAlpine family and wellbeing expert unpacks the truth behind one of the most talked-about family dynamics. Drawing on real listener stories, including a middle child who feels the weight of family responsibility, Dr McAlpine offers a refreshing perspective. Rather than reinforcing stereotypes, she reveals how middle children often become skilled relationship builders and peacemakers, holding families together in ways that go unnoticed. But it is not just about birth order. The conversation dives deeper into how parenting style, personality differences and family culture all play a crucial role in shaping who we become. From sibling rivalry to large family dynamics and even the myths surrounding only children, this interview challenges long-held assumptions. You will also hear surprising insights into how children in bigger families may develop empathy earlier, while only children can thrive with the right social opportunities. If you have ever wondered why you or your siblings turned out the way you did, this engaging discussion offers both validation and a new way of thinking about family roles. Curious to learn where you fit in? This is one interview you will not want to miss.

Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine interviewed on ABC Radio No parent or grandparent enjoys seeing a child upset, but what if those moments of disappointment are exactly what help them thrive? In a recent radio chat , Dr Rosina McAlpine, widely known as Dr Rosina McAlpine family and wellbeing expert, shares why failure isn’t something to avoid but something to embrace. From missed goals to tough exam results, setbacks are more than just hard moments, they are powerful opportunities to build resilience, persistence and problem-solving skills. As Dr McAlpine explains, kids don’t develop these abilities when everything goes right. It’s in the struggles that real growth happens. So what should parents do when emotions run high? Instead of rushing to fix things, the key is to pause, regulate your own response and lead with empathy. A simple “I can see that’s really tough” can go further than any quick solution. From there, guiding children to reflect and problem-solve helps them build confidence and independence. The conversation also tackles a common trap: doing too much for kids. Whether it’s school projects or life challenges, striking a balance between support and independence is crucial. By “scaffolding” rather than solving, parents empower kids to learn and succeed on their own. Curious about how to turn everyday setbacks into lifelong strengths? This insightful interview is packed with practical wisdom every parent and grandparent can use.

Parenting and Wellbeing expert Dr Rosina McAlpine interviewed on Single Parenting Reset Show What is really going on when your tween or teen snaps, shuts down, lashes out, or melts down over something that seems small? For many parents, these moments can feel confusing, exhausting, and deeply personal. But often, what looks like defiance or overreaction is actually a child struggling to understand, express, and manage big emotions. In this insightful episode of The Single Parenting Reset Show, host Therese 'Tess' Connolly speaks with Dr Rosina McAlpine, parenting and family wellbeing expert and founder of Win Win Parenting, about how parents can help tweens and teens build emotional intelligence, strengthen resilience, and manage emotions in healthier ways. Emotional intelligence is more than “calming down” Emotional intelligence is often misunderstood as simply teaching children to calm down or behave better. But emotional intelligence is much broader than that. As Dr Rosina explains in the episode, emotional intelligence is the ability to: recognise and understand your own emotions regulate and manage emotional responses recognise emotions in others respond with empathy build healthy, respectful relationships These are not just “nice to have” life skills. They are essential skills that shape how children communicate, cope with stress, manage relationships, and move through life. Research consistently links emotional intelligence with stronger mental health, healthier relationships, improved school and work performance, better physical wellbeing, and greater life satisfaction. Why emotional intelligence matters in the tween and teen years The tween and teen years are a time of enormous emotional, social, and neurological development. Young people are navigating friendship dynamics, growing independence, academic pressure, identity development, and increased exposure to social media and digital influences, all while their brains are still developing the skills needed for emotional regulation and impulse control. This means emotional reactions can often feel bigger, faster, and harder for young people to manage. What can look like moodiness, irritability, defiance, or withdrawal is often a sign that a young person needs more support in understanding what they are feeling and how to respond. This episode helps parents reframe challenging behaviour, not as something to punish, but as something to understand, support, and teach through. Emotional regulation is a skill, not a personality trait One of the most important messages in this conversation is that emotional regulation is not something children simply “have” or “don’t have.” It is a skill, and like any skill, it must be taught, practised, and modelled over time. Dr Rosina shares practical strategies parents can use to help children: notice what they are feeling name their emotions with more clarity pause before reacting understand what triggered the emotion choose more helpful responses over time This is not about perfection. It is about helping children build awareness and emotional capability one small step at a time. The role of parents in shaping emotional intelligence Parents play a critical role in helping children develop emotional intelligence, not by fixing every emotional moment, but by modelling calm, self-awareness, and emotional safety. In the episode, Dr Rosina shares simple ways parents can support emotional growth at home, including: modelling emotional regulation in everyday moments helping children name and normalise emotions creating space for feelings without escalating conflict teaching empathy and perspective-taking supporting children to problem-solve rather than react looking for the “win-win” in emotionally charged situations This practical approach helps reduce power struggles, strengthen trust, and build more respectful parent-child relationships over time. The impact of screens, gaming, and social media on mood The conversation also explores the growing influence of screens, gaming, and social media on tween and teen emotional wellbeing. From overstimulation and emotional reactivity to comparison, sleep disruption, and reduced face-to-face connection, digital habits can significantly affect how young people feel, think, and respond. Dr Rosina offers practical, balanced guidance for helping families navigate technology in a way that supports emotional wellbeing rather than undermines it. A practical conversation for parents of tweens and teens If your tween or teen struggles with emotional outbursts, irritability, shutdowns, or conflict, this episode offers practical and reassuring guidance to help you better understand what is happening beneath the behaviour. Rather than focusing only on stopping the behaviour, this conversation helps parents understand how to build the emotional skills that sit underneath it. It is a thoughtful and practical discussion filled with simple strategies parents can begin using straight away. Listen now to discover how helping your child notice what they are feeling, before trying to fix the behaviour, can be one of the most powerful parenting shifts you make.

Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine interviewed on ABC Radio Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing how children learn, think and interact with the world but are we ready for it? In this insightful radio interview, Dr Rosina McAlpine family and wellbeing expert unpacks the real impact of AI on young minds and what parents can do to stay ahead. From smartphones and social media to the rise of AI “super geniuses in your pocket”, the conversation explores how technology is reshaping childhood and not always for the better. With growing concerns around anxiety, reduced problem solving skills and over reliance on instant answers, Dr Rosina highlights why developing resilience, communication and critical thinking has never been more important. But it is not all doom and gloom. There are powerful ways AI can support learning when used wisely. Think step by step guidance, deeper understanding and even parents relearning maths alongside their kids. The key lies in setting boundaries and encouraging children to struggle, think and apply knowledge rather than outsourcing it completely. There is also a refreshing reminder of the value of real world experiences. From theatre workshops to baking with grandparents, these hands on moments build life skills no algorithm can replace. Curious about how to strike the right balance in your home? This is a conversation every parent and grandparent should hear.

Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine interviewed on ABC Radio What if everything we thought about parenting missed the bigger picture? In this thought-provoking radio interview, Dr Rosina McAlpine family and wellbeing expert challenges the way we prepare children for the future—and her insights may surprise you. Speaking ahead of her keynote in the United States, Dr Rosina shifts the focus from traditional parenting approaches—discipline, rewards, and punishment—to something far more impactful: life skills. She paints a compelling “helicopter view” of what raising a child should involve—helping them navigate emotions, relationships, resilience, and real-world challenges. Drawing on decades of experience, she highlights a concerning trend: rising levels of anxiety, depression, bullying, and disengagement among children. Despite academic focus, something isn’t adding up. Are we neglecting the “whole child” in pursuit of grades? The conversation also dives into the age-old debate of nature versus nurture. While genetics play a role, Dr Rosina makes a strong case that skills like empathy, leadership, and emotional regulation can - and should- be taught. Perhaps most compelling is her call for “teacher-family partnerships” - a collaborative model where parents, educators, and communities align to support children with consistent messages and shared values. This interview is a must-listen for anyone invested in raising confident, capable kids in a complex world.

Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine interviewed on ABC Radio Grandparents are playing a bigger role in family life than ever before. With rising living costs and both parents often working, many families are relying on grandparents for support, care, and connection. But as this role grows, so do the complexities. In this engaging conversation, parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine explores the evolving dynamics between parents and grandparents, and why navigating these relationships is not always straightforward. The discussion highlights a tension many families will recognise. Some grandparents are eager to be deeply involved, while others are ready to enjoy their independence after years of raising children. At the same time, parents want support but may also have specific expectations around routines, discipline, and lifestyle choices. This can create misunderstandings unless there is open and respectful communication. What makes this conversation particularly compelling is its focus on practical, real-world solutions. From setting boundaries gradually, to finding shared ground on parenting approaches, to recognising each other’s stage of life and capacity, the insights are both relatable and actionable. The conversation also beautifully captures what grandparents uniquely offer, unconditional love, family traditions, cultural connection, and a sense of history that shapes a child’s identity. If you are navigating the balance between support, boundaries, and connection in your family, this is a conversation worth listening to in full.

Parenting expert Dr rosina McAlpine interviewed on Masterful Parenting What if the stress you feel as a parent is not a personal failing, but a systems problem that can be solved? In this insightful conversation from the  Masterful Parenting Podcast, Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine unpacks the real pressures facing working parents today, and why so many are feeling stretched, exhausted, and unsupported. Drawing on global research and over a decade of experience working with organisations, she highlights a powerful truth: working parents are one of the most at-risk groups for burnout, yet they are often the least supported. This is not just a parenting issue. It is a workplace, economic, and societal issue. The discussion explores practical, real-world strategies that actually work for busy families. From simple routines that reduce morning chaos, to building a “village” of support, the conversation is full of relatable examples and immediately usable ideas. It also reveals what organisations can do differently, from gathering the right data to creating genuinely family-friendly cultures that empower employees rather than penalise them. Perhaps most importantly, this episode offers reassurance. Parents are not alone, and they are not failing. With the right support, both at home and at work, families can thrive. If you are a parent feeling the pressure, or a leader wanting to better support your team, this is a conversation worth listening to.

Parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine interviewed on ABC Radio Blended families are becoming increasingly common, yet many parents feel unprepared for the emotional and practical challenges that come with bringing two families together. With rising rates of separation, divorce, and re-partnering, more children are growing up in stepfamilies and blended households. While popular culture often paints a picture of seamless harmony, the reality is usually more complex. In this podcast episode, parenting expert Dr Rosina McAlpine explores what really happens when families blend and why patience, understanding, and thoughtful communication are essential. Many people remember the television show The Brady Bunch , where two families seemed to merge effortlessly into one happy household. While that image is comforting, real families often face a very different experience as they navigate new relationships, different parenting styles, and shifting family roles. One of the key messages discussed in the conversation is the importance of taking things slowly. Just because adults feel ready to form a new relationship does not mean children will adapt immediately. Children may still be adjusting to separation, new living arrangements, or emotional changes, so introducing a new partner or stepfamily needs to be done gently and with care. Dr Rosina also shares practical guidance for step-parents. Rather than stepping straight into a disciplinary role, it is often more helpful for step-parents to first focus on building trust and connection. Simple moments such as attending a sports game, sharing an activity, or showing genuine interest in a child’s day can help establish a foundation of respect and relationship before authority is introduced. Another important theme is fairness. Differences in parenting styles and expectations can quickly create tension between siblings and step-siblings if they are not discussed openly. Children’s perception of fairness matters deeply, and families benefit when adults talk through expectations before problems arise. The conversation also highlights the powerful role grandparents can play. In times of family change, grandparents can offer stability, warmth, and a safe space where children feel supported without judgement. If you are part of a blended family, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about how families can navigate these transitions successfully, this podcast offers practical insights and reassuring guidance. Listen to the full conversation to discover simple strategies that can help blended families grow stronger together.

Persistent or extreme childhood and adult mental illnesses and other behavioural disorders are often treated with medications. However, many parents are concerned about the side effects and the negative impact on their children in the long term. I recently came across the work of Professor Julia Rucklidge  from the University of Canterbury in New Zealand who is a clinical psychologist and researcher who has been working for over a decade on the positive impact that nutrition can have on decreasing and preventing mental illness in children. After watching her  TEDx talk  is entitled: “ The surprisingly dramatic role of nutrition in mental health” , I wanted to know more about her research and share it with my Win Win Parenting community. In her research, Prof Rucklidge reports incredible success stories of bringing adults and children with mental health issues back to good health simply by giving them the right combination and therapeutic doses of micronutrients as part of their diet. Join Dr Rosina , entertaining and educational parenting expert to learn: What mental illness is and its increasing prevalence Conventional medical treatments and their effectiveness The surprising and dramatic effectiveness  of nutrition in preventing and improving mental health illness The role of micronutrients in preventing mental health issues Learn more about Professor Julia Rucklidge and her research on her webpage at the University of Canterbury, New Zealand. You can contact her about the supplements at julia.rucklidge@canterbury.ac.nz For help raising well-rounded and capable kids from toddlers to teens, get great tips, resources and support using Dr Rosina’s practical parenting approach .

Interview audio courtesy of 2GB We've all heard of the terms "mummy's boy" and "daddy's girl" and usually it comes with negative connotations. Well not anymore! A new UK study by the Marriage Foundation (August 2018) reveals that children who are close to their parents have better mental health outcomes and stronger social skills. In this short audio clip Ben Fordham, radio host on 2GB interviews parenting expert, Dr Rosina McAlpine, CEO of Win Win Parenting.  You'll learn why having a close relationship with your kids is important and tips for how to achieve it!

Are you a "softie" when it comes to raising your children or are you "tougher" on your kids? While every parent or carer wants the best for their children, parents and carers may not always agree on the "best" way or the "right" way to parent. Some parents prefer to take a firmer or disciplinarian approach to raising their children, others may prefer a gentler collaborative parenting approach. These differences can result in conflict between parents and confuse children.  If you’d like to know how to manage different approaches to parenting with your parenting partner then this interview on ABC Brisbane "Afternoons with Katherine Feeney" is for you. Parenting expert, Dr Rosina McAlpine, creator of the Win Win Parenting program shares: A range of different approaches to parenting and their impact on children. The challenges parent’s face when they're not on the same page. How to overcome conflict when there are different approaches to raising children. It's just 15 mins! Enjoy!