Growing Hearts Podcast

Family life isn't built on grand gestures - it's shaped by the small, ordinary moments we repeat every day.  In this episode, we are joined by Elizabeth Leyden, mentor at Tangara School for Girls, wife, mum of two and former lawyer, to explore how simple family habits and routines become the foundation for lasting relationships, joyful homes and a living faith.  Together they discuss why family dinners matter, how couples can create their own family culture, the importance of investing in marriage, and practical ways to make faith a natural part of everyday life. Elizabeth also shares how understanding each child's temperament, spending intentional one-on-one time, and embracing ordinary moments can have an extraordinary impact on family life.  Whether you're raising toddlers, navigating busy family schedules, or simply looking for ways to be more intentional at home, this conversation offers practical encouragement to start small, stay consistent, and focus on what truly matters.  Discussion Points: Creating your family's unique style: building traditions and values together as a couple instead of simply copying your own upbringing.  Making faith part of everyday life: practical ways to integrate prayer, church visits and conversations about God into daily family routines.  Investing in marriage first: why a strong, united marriage provides the foundation for raising children with confidence and consistency.  Helping children grow through responsibility and service: encouraging children to contribute at home, notice others' needs and develop a generous outlook.  The importance of family rest and togetherness, rediscovering joy through shared meals, outdoor adventures, games and quality time without distractions.  Starting small and staying consistent: simple, achievable habits that help families build lasting routines without striving for perfection.  Join the Conversation  What routines or traditions have helped your family grow closer?  We'd love to hear from you. Share your thoughts, favorite family traditions, or practical habits that have made a difference in your home.  Connect with us on social media or send us your questions and suggestions for future episodes. Your stories may inspire other families on their own journey of growing hearts.  If you enjoyed this episode, please follow Growing Hearts, leave a review, and share it with someone who might find encouragement in today's conversation.  References:  Online Postgraduate Studies in Marriage, Education and Family  Parenting For Character, 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  

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