Conversations with Kristi

By Kristi McVee

Welcome to Conversations with Kristi! 🎙️

Hosted by Kristi McVee, this podcast is your go-to resource for keeping parents informed and kids safe in today’s ever-changing world. Each episode, Kristi b... more

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FAQs about Conversations with Kristi:

How many episodes does Conversations with Kristi have?

The podcast currently has 57 episodes available.

Conversations with Kristi episodes:

June 23, 2025S3 Ep7 - Navigating Trauma: A Journey of Healing with Diane Tarantini
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, I speak with Diane Tarantini, a body safety educator and author, about the critical importance of conversations surrounding child safety and trauma. We discuss Diane's personal journey as a survivor of childhood abuse, the significance of body safety education, and the alarming statistics regarding child sexual abuse. The conversation emphasises the need for open discussions about difficult topics, the impact of pornography on youth, and the role of therapy in healing. Diane shares valuable tips for parents on how to create safe spaces for their children to talk about their experiences and feelings, highlighting the importance of consistent communication and education in preventing abuse.
Key Takeaways:
Every conversation about child safety is vital.
Survivors often hide their trauma until they can't anymore.
Body safety education is crucial for children.
Conversations about difficult topics should start early.
Statistics show a high prevalence of child sexual abuse.
Peer-to-peer abuse is a growing concern.
Education on consent and safe touch is essential.
The impact of pornography on youth is significant.
Therapy can be a powerful tool for healing.
Writing can help survivors process their experiences.
Episode Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction and Connection Across Borders
02:09 - Diane's Journey: From Survivor to Educator
06:22 - The Importance of Open Conversations
06:58 - Statistics and Disclosure of Childhood Trauma
10:40 - Understanding Peer-to-Peer Abuse
14:24 - The Role of Pornography in Child Abuse
18:29 - The Impact of Unsupervised Internet Access
22:55 - Consequences of Misguided Sexual Education
27:20 - Navigating Parenting in a Complex World
27:49 - Understanding Body Safety and Consent
30:03 - The Dynamics of Grooming and Peer-to-Peer Abuse
32:54 - The Impact of Family Dynamics on Abuse
35:56 - The Role of Parents in Recognising Abuse
38:54 - The Complexity of Emotional and Physical Abuse
41:48 - The Journey to Therapy and Healing
46:02 - The Role of Trauma in Parenting
50:35 - Exploring EMDR Therapy for Trauma Recovery
56:11 - Healing from Trauma: The Power of Memory Work
59:36 - Understanding Complex Trauma and Its Effects
01:02:03 - Empowering Children: Body Safety Education
01:06:05 - Fostering Open Conversations with Kids
01:12:17 - Navigating Difficult Topics: Communication Strategies
01:15:33 - The Journey of Writing and Sharing Stories
For additional resources and support services, please head to my website at https://www.cape-au.com/free-resources
You can also watch the full video version of this episode on my YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/MboNI4FsHAY
To learn more and connect with Diane please head to https://dianetarantini.com/ and follow her on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/diane-tarantini-b883938a
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1h 23min
June 09, 2025S3 Ep6 - Hope and Forgiveness in Parenting with Nikki Butler
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, we catch up with Nikki Butler to discuss the importance of teaching protective behaviours to children and instilling a sense of hope for parents who may feel they have missed opportunities in their children's upbringing. She discusses the significance of recognising non-verbal cues and behaviours that indicate harm, and encourages parents to forgive themselves for past mistakes, highlighting that it is never too late to start making positive changes in their parenting approach.
Key Takeaways:
It's never too late to start teaching protective behaviours.
Parents should forgive themselves for past parenting mistakes.
Recognising nonverbal cues is crucial in understanding children.
There are ways to work with young people effectively.
Hope is an essential element in parenting.
Teaching kids about safety is a continuous journey.
Understanding a child's language of harm is important.
Parents can always improve their skills and knowledge.
It's vital to address missed opportunities in parenting.
Support and resources are available for parents.
Episode Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction to Child Protection and Safety
02:40 - Nikki Butler's Journey in Child Safety
07:39 - Working with Young Mothers and Their Challenges
11:08 - Navigating Teenage Years: Parenting Challenges
16:45 - Understanding Teen Development and Identity
30:56 - Building Communication and Connection with Teens
37:21 - The Importance of Communication in Parenting
39:36 - Understanding Teen Emotions and Self-Expression
45:36 - Navigating Risky Behaviours in Adolescents
50:16 - Recognising Changes in Teen Behaviour
57:33 - Building Connections with Teen Friends
01:01:34 -The Power of Vulnerability and Sharing Experiences
01:08:37 - Introduction to Child Safety Education
For additional resources and support services, please head to my website at https://www.cape-au.com/free-resources
You can also watch the full video version of this episode on my YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/6FiPVbiu4sI
To learn more and connect with Nikki please head to www.nikkibutler.com.au and follow her on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikki-butler-577132149/
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1h 5min
May 26, 2025S3 Ep5 - Empowering Children: The My Body Tells the Truth Program with Colleen Murphy
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, we catch up with Colleen Murphy to discuss the importance of teaching children to trust their bodies and recognise their own signals, especially in environments where they may feel uncertain. Colleen discusses the role of adults in fostering this trust and provides practical strategies for empowering children to navigate their feelings and experiences.
Key Takeaways:
Trusting your body is essential for children.
Children can rely on their bodies even in uncertain environments.
Body signals are truthful indicators of feelings.
Empowerment comes from understanding one's own body.
Adults play a crucial role in teaching body trust.
Resilience is built through body awareness.
Practical strategies can help children trust their bodies.
Encouraging open conversations about feelings is vital.
Children need guidance to navigate their experiences.
Creating a supportive environment fosters body trust.
Episode Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction to Colleen Murphy and Her Journey
07:53 - From Hairdresser to Victim Advocate
12:54 - The My Body Tells the Truth Program
16:54 - Understanding Disclosures from Children
21:15 - The Impact of First Responders on Abuse Awareness
23:35 - The Cycle of Abuse and Its Long-Term Effects
28:50 - Supporting Families of Abuse Survivors
33:23 - Empowering Children Through Education
34:58 - Understanding Consent and Coercion
37:35 - Empowering Children to Speak Up
41:21 - Questioning Authority and Building Confidence
44:17 - The Importance of Parental Guidance
47:39 - Navigating Sleepovers and Safety
51:16 - The Role of Community in Parenting
54:10 - Empowering Children Through Education
57:53 - Validation and Communication in Parenting
01:03:57 - Introduction to Child Safety Education

For additional resources and support services, please head to my website at https://www.cape-au.com/free-resources
You can also watch the full video version of this episode on my YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/fZJUcbJkXjg
To learn more about Colleen and her mission, head to her LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-murphy-17416a182/
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1h 2min
May 12, 2025S3 Ep4 - The Fear Behind Parental Anger with Andy Briercliffe
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, Andy and Kristi delve into the emotional dynamics of parenting, particularly focusing on how parents react to situations involving their children, emphasising the importance of remaining calm and understanding the underlying fears that often drive parental anger. They discuss strategies for effective communication and the need for support in navigating challenging conversations with children.
Key Takeaways:
There are people who are there to help you.
Remain calm, don't freak out in tough situations.
Most anger stems from fear for children's safety.
Disappointment can arise from unmet expectations.
Conversations about difficult topics can be challenging.
Instant reactions often lead to exaggerated responses.
Understanding emotional triggers is key to effective communication.
Parents should strive for calmness in crises.
Fear can drive parental anger and reactions.
Support systems are crucial for parents.
Episode Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Online Harms and Child Safety
04:21 Understanding Online Harms and Their Complexity
07:03 The Role of Algorithms in Child Safety
09:24 The Debate on Social Media Regulations
12:04 Challenges in Enforcing Age Restrictions
14:51 The Need for Comprehensive Education on Online Safety
17:22 Navigating the Legal Landscape of Online Content
20:03 The Nuances of CSAM and CSEM Terminology
23:09 Navigating Consent in Adult Content
25:11 The Challenges of Law Enforcement and AI
27:38 The Role of Education in Online Safety
32:42 Understanding Sextortion and Grooming
37:58 The Importance of Open Communication
39:39 Addressing Broader Online Risks
41:41 The Responsibility of Social Media Platforms
44:31 Navigating Online Safety and Parental Responsibility
47:34 The Role of Education in Digital Safety
48:41 Resources for Parents and Guardians
51:52 Understanding Misinformation and Influences
54:59 The Landscape of Trust and Safety in Technology
01:05:07 Introduction to Child Safety Education
For additional resources and support services, please head to my website at https://www.cape-au.com/free-resources
You can also watch the full video version of this episode on my YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/3hcCp_Nq2Ug
To access the Global Child Safety List that Andy speaks about in his interview, please go to - Global List - Online Child Safety.xlsx - Google Sheets or follow Andy on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-briercliffe-760621191/
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1h 7min
April 28, 2025S3 Ep3 - Understanding Child-on-Child Sexual Abuse with Lauren B
Episode Summary:
This episode of Conversations with Kristi delves into the sensitive topic of child-on-child sexual abuse, highlighting the experiences of individuals involved in the ABAR project. It emphasises the misconceptions surrounding children's behaviour in such situations and the importance of recognising the seriousness of these incidents rather than dismissing them as mere experimentation or curiosity.
Key Takeaways:
The ABAR project focuses on child-on-child sexual abuse.
Personal experiences can shape memories and perceptions of abuse.
Misconceptions about children's behaviour can be harmful.
Child-on-child sexual abuse is often underreported and misunderstood.
It's crucial to recognise the seriousness of such incidents.
Psychological support is vital for survivors of abuse.
Awareness and education are key in addressing these issues.
Children's experiences should not be trivialised or dismissed.
The impact of abuse can vary based on frequency and context.
Conversations about child abuse need to be more open and honest.
Episode Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Child Abuse Prevention
03:27 Lauren's Journey as a Survivor
05:52 The Importance of Trauma-Informed Care
07:17 Navigating the Disclosure Process
10:53 The Impact of Dismissive Language
12:39 Understanding Child-on-Child Abuse
17:32 The Complexity of Child-on-Child Abuse
24:14 The Need for Better Terminology
26:20 The Role of Education in Prevention
30:05 Understanding Victim Behaviour and Support
33:03 Finding Purpose Through Helping Others
35:47 Parental Guidance on Child Safety
41:07 Improving Police Response to Victims
47:33 The Need for Support Services in Reporting Abuse
49:34 Balancing Healing and Advocacy
51:57 Introduction to Child Safety Education
For additional resources and support services, please head to my website at https://www.cape-au.com/free-resources
You can also watch the full video version of this episode on my YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SjvH4Rc4aT0
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53min
April 14, 2025S3 Ep2 - Confronting Motherhood: A Journey of Fear with Danielle Cheeseman
Summary:
In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, Danielle Cheeseman shares her profound fears and anxieties about motherhood, particularly her concerns about raising daughters. She reflects on her own experiences and the challenges she anticipates in preventing her children from facing similar struggles.
Key Takeaways:
Danielle felt terrified about becoming a mother.
She worried about her children experiencing her past traumas.
Her fears were heightened by the thought of raising a daughter.
She believed that the risks of trauma were still present regardless of gender.
Danielle's reflections highlight the emotional challenges of parenting.
The conversation emphasises the importance of resilience in motherhood.
Personal experiences shape our fears as parents.
Danielle's insights reveal the complexities of family dynamics.
She expresses a desire to protect her children from pain.
The discussion underscores the need for open conversations about mental health.
Episode Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Child Abuse Prevention
03:57 Parenting Fears and Protective Measures
05:21 The Impact of Recent Events
07:05 The Complexity of Trust and Abuse
09:02 Navigating Relationships with Abusers
11:13 The Role of Family in Disclosure
12:33 The Challenge of Believability
15:19 Healing Through Discovery
16:46 Support Systems After Disclosure
18:02 The Importance of Therapy
19:53 Preparing for Parenthood
22:29 Teaching Children About Body Safety
25:33 Navigating Childhood Trauma and Protective Instincts
27:22 Recognising Red Flags and Setting Boundaries
30:47 The Importance of Trusting Your Instincts
32:19 Educating Parents on Child Safety
36:07 The Dangers of Sharing Children's Images Online
38:38 Implementing Changes for Family Safety
41:19 Empowering Children Through Autonomy
43:52 The Importance of Open Conversations About Abuse
49:39 Introduction to Child Safety Education
For additional resources and support services, please head to my website at https://www.cape-au.com/free-resources
You can also watch the full video version of this episode on my YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/ncx4a4odqpg
To learn more about Danielle you can find her details on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-cheeseman-15b3b89a/
...more
51min
March 31, 2025S3 Ep1 - Understanding Grooming: A Call to Action with Anna Sonoda.
Summary:
In this episode of "Conversations with Kristi", Anna Sonoda discusses the grooming process that can occur with children and emphasises the critical role that adults play in recognising and interrupting this harmful behaviour. She highlights the importance of legal consequences and the need for adults to be vigilant in protecting children from potential harm.
Key Takeaways:
Every adult can interrupt the grooming process. Grooming often starts off appearing sweet. Grooming involves pulling children away from normal activities. Adults must be vigilant in recognizing grooming behaviors. Legal consequences are necessary for protecting children. Extended family may not always act in the child's best interest. Creating space between a child and their support system is a red flag. Opportunities to break rules can be a grooming tactic. Awareness of grooming is crucial for all adults. We must be the cornerstone of support for children.
Podcast Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Conversations with Kristi
03:26 Anna Sonoda's Journey into Social Work
07:20 Understanding Grooming and Its Impact
10:16 The Four Steps of Grooming
15:51 Recognising Patterns in Grooming Behaviour
21:12 The Importance of Access and Space
26:06 Establishing Family Protocols for Safety
29:34 Understanding the Prevalence of Child Abuse
30:40 The Importance of Open Conversations
33:57 Empowering Parents and Caregivers
37:09 Recognising Grooming Behaviours
40:24 Building Trust and Open Communication
45:09 Addressing Child Sexual Abuse as a Public Health Issue
48:39 Resources for Survivors and Prevention Strategies
51:13 Introduction to Child Safety Education
For additional resources and support services, please head to my website at https://www.cape-au.com/free-resources
You can also watch the full video version of this episode on my YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/qBVVrNlK804
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53min
December 18, 2024 S2 Ep20 Breaking down offender behaviours with Kelly Jackson
CONTENT WARNING - discussion about offender behaviours and methodology
In this episode, Kristi interviews phD candidate, criminologist and psychologist Kelly Jackson.
Kelly and Kristi discuss the research around offender behaviours and methodologies used in the commission of child sexual abuse and the many ways offenders groom children.

This interesting conversation explains in detail the grooming process, the types of behaviours offenders use in order to find victims, the research that proves that stops offenders from abusing kids and how parents can actually protect their children from abuse.
This is a must listen episode for anyone who loves to dive deep into the psychology of offenders.
Connect with Kelly via her LinkedIn here: linkedin.com/in/kelly-jackson-b49a57150
If any part of the show causes distress, please seek support and help from either the following services or from your own family doctor/psychologist or counsellor.
Lifeline - 131114
Beyond Blue - 1300 224 636
Service Assisting Male Survivors of Sexual Assault (SAMSSA) - (02) 6287 3935
1800 Respect - 1800 737 732
For more information or resources please visit the CAPE-AU website at www.cape-au.com.

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1h 14min
December 04, 2024 S2 Ep19 Let down and abandoned with Mel James
CONTENT WARNING - language warning, discussing grooming, child sexual abuse, long term abuse and sexual assault
In this episode, Kristi talks with Mel James, lived experience child sexual abuse survivor and advocate for First Nations women enduring systems abuse.

Mel talks about her personal experience with grooming and child sexual abuse, by a person in authority, who used their position of power in the community to get close to her and her family to abuse her. Mel's abuse lasted more than 10 years and was witnessed by other adults who could have protected her.
This is an in-depth conversation about the complex nature of grooming and abuse, and how it can leave lifelong impacts for children along with raising concerns about the conduct and beliefs of supposed 'safe' adults and their lack of action and advocacy for children when it's their job to do so.
To follow or connect with Mel James on TikTok www.tiktok.com/uniqueteam2024 or LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/mel-j-67b5a520a
If any part of the show causes distress, please seek support and help from either the following services or from your own family doctor/psychologist or counsellor.
Lifeline - 131114
Beyond Blue - 1300 224 636
Service Assisting Male Survivors of Sexual Assault (SAMSSA) - (02) 6287 3935
1800 Respect - 1800 737 732
For more information or resources please visit the CAPE-AU website at www.cape-au.com.
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1h 16min
November 20, 2024 S2 Ep18 Protecting our First Nations families with Rachel Dunn
CONTENT WARNING - language warning, discussions around child sexual abuse, domestic violence of First Nations peoples
In this episode, Kristi talks with proud Palawa woman Rachel Dunn, about the impacts of domestic violence and child sexual abuse on First Nations families and the difficulties in calling-out these tragedies in culture and family.
Rachel shares her story and her experience in calling out abuse within her family unit, as well as trying to advocate and protect other First Nations children and women, against the prejudice and beliefs that perpetuate and prolong harm and trauma within community.
Connect with Rachel via her LinkedIn here: www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-dunn-7a6060229
If any part of the show causes distress, please seek support and help from either the following services or from your own family doctor/psychologist or counsellor.
Lifeline - 131114
13Yarn - 13 92 76. or www.13yarn.org.au
Beyond Blue - 1300 224 636
Service Assisting Male Survivors of Sexual Assault (SAMSSA) - (02) 6287 3935
1800 Respect - 1800 737 732
For more information or resources please visit the CAPE-AU website at www.cape-au.com.
...more
1h 4min

FAQs about Conversations with Kristi:

How many episodes does Conversations with Kristi have?

The podcast currently has 57 episodes available.