In this deeply reflective episode of The Spark Changemakers Podcast, Nikki Giant is joined by Gary Lougher, founder of 2nd Ascent Coaching and the creator of Heroic Kids - a storytelling-based mentorship program helping children and their families reconnect with emotional intelligence, resilience, and their true nature.

From his own corporate burnout, to his journey into working with children and families, Gary shares his profound insights into trauma, evolutionary mismatch, toxic culture, and the importance of rewilding our souls. The conversation explores how children can become leaders of a new world - not by fitting into broken systems, but by reclaiming ancient wisdom, self-compassion, and connection with nature.

Together, Nikki and Gary unpack:

• Why listening is one of the most vital — and neglected — human skills
• How Heroic Kids supports children and parents to grow side-by-side
• The power of storytelling and nature-based learning in healing trauma
• Why emotional regulation is the foundation of leadership
• How we can raise a generation of conscious changemakers

This is a call to all mentors, parents, and educators to slow down, reawaken to what matters most, and walk alongside our young people as they step into their power.

Connect with Gary and learn more:

🔗Visit the 2nd Ascent website

📣Learn more about Heroic Kids

🌱Get a copy of Gary's book, Rewilding Your Soul

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