The Parent Teacher Conference

By Raising learners one critical conversation at a time.

We know you're busy, and we know you want the best for your kids. But, with so much conflicting advice out there, who can you trust?

We are two moms, academics, and educators with over 20 years of com... more

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FAQs about The Parent Teacher Conference:

How many episodes does The Parent Teacher Conference have?

The podcast currently has 10 episodes available.

The Parent Teacher Conference episodes:

August 24, 2026 Ep. 10 Protect Human Learning: A Conference with Anthony Carabache of OECTA.
This episode explores the growing role of AI and Ed-Tech in education, with a sharp focus on safety, ethics, privacy, and what it means to preserve human-centered learning. Stephanie and Kristy are joined by Anthony Carabache of OECTA (Ontario English Catholic Teachers Association) who brings classroom experience, union leadership, policy work, and years of hands-on testing of AI tools into the discussion. Together, we unpack how AI is being marketed to teachers, why the phrase “tool” may be misleading, and why schools should slow down long enough to ask what problem technology is actually solving.
Key Topics
* The ongoing tension between progress and safety as tech integration inundates the school system.
* An exploration of the concept of AI as a “tool”.
* Reflections about how cognitive offloading and frictionless learning will impact students.
Resources
Article 1: “Educators, If You’re Going to Run into the Arms of A.I., Do it with Eyes Wide Open” (June 2024) LinkedIn Article
Article 2: “Friction: Where Learning Happens” (November 2025) LinkedIn Article
United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theptconference.substack.com
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1h 9min
August 05, 2026 Ep. 9 Phone-Free Schools: A Conference with Angie Clark & Margot Denommé of RAADD.
In this episode of The Parent-Teacher Conference, we sit down to explore the intersection of children’s rights, legal protection, and proactive advocacy. We are joined by Margot Denommé, a former Crown Attorney and founder of RAADD (Raising Awareness About Digital Dangers), and Angie Clark, Executive Director of Canada’s Phone-Free Schools Movement.
This conference explores practical strategies, legislative updates, and the importance of collective action to ensure a safer online environment for our youth
Key Topics:
The importance of preventative approaches over reactive measures for online harms.
The impact of digital platforms on children’s self-esteem, mental health, and legal safety.
The differences between bell-to-bell and classroom-only phone policies in schools.
Legislation and international policies addressing addictive design and CSAM.
Myth-busting common misconceptions about social media harms.
Resources:
RAAD (Raising Awareness About Digital Dangers)
Phone-Free Schools Movement Canada
the Family Smart-Phone Guide
PFSM Administrator Toolkit

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theptconference.substack.com
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1h 10min
July 25, 2026 Ep. 8 Raising Boys: Insights from Jonathon Reed of Next Gen Men
On this week’s episode we explore the complex landscape of raising boys today, emphasizing the importance of meaningful conversations, mentorship, and understanding the digital influences shaping young men. We discuss strategies to foster emotional well-being, positive identity, and safe online behavior.
*Get the Episode Guide here
Key Topics:
The societal narratives and societal risks facing boys today, including vulnerability and mental health challenges.
The impact of social media, the manosphere, and online influencers on boys’ perceptions of masculinity.
The importance of entry points, curiosity, and relational approaches in engaging boys effectively.
How mentorship and positive influence can counteract harmful online rhetoric.
The critical role of education around relationships, consent, and online safety.
Practical ways to create safe digital spaces and foster healthy identity development.
The necessity of including boys' voices in conversations about their well-being and future.
Timestamps:
(00:00) - Welcome and episode overview: The importance of ongoing dialogue about raising boys
(02:23) - Introducing Jonathan Reed from Next Gen Men & their approach
(05:40) - Examining societal narratives around boyhood and masculinity
(08:45) - Digital influences and polarization in masculinity
(12:47) - Stories illustrating online rhetoric's impact on boys’ mental health
(16:08) - The role of influencers and the need for nuanced engagement
(20:11) - Exploring what manhood means to boys and how to inspire authentic identity
(24:24) - Strategies for mentorship and influence through positive role models
(31:05) - Building resilience and safety online through curiosity and education
(43:22) - Addressing online risks like sexting, privacy, and exploitation
(55:48) - Conversations about porn, sexuality, and healthy relationships
(63:42) - The importance of including youth voices in policy and digital safety conversations
(70:58) - Reflection on the influence of peers and social media evolution
Resources & Links:
Next Gen Men
NGM Discord Server
About Jonathon
Global Alliance-Financial Sextortion
Effects of Pornography on Youth
Algorithms and Misogynistic Content
Technology-Facilitated Sexual Violence Resources (TFSV)
Systems of Care Framework
Further Reading:
https://www.nextgenmen.ca/library/category/Books
This episode emphasizes the vital role of curiosity, safe spaces, and meaningful relationships in supporting boys to become confident, compassionate young men in today’s digital world.
Never Miss a Conference:
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Follow us on Instagram: @parentteacherpod
Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theptconferencepod

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theptconference.substack.com
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1h 2min
June 22, 2026 Ep. 7 Staff Room Chitchats: Talking AI Literacy & a Social Media Ban.
In this episode, Kristy and Stephanie explore Canada's recent national AI strategy, focusing on its impact on education, privacy, and responsible AI use. They delve into the challenges and opportunities AI presents for children, educators, and parents, while envisioning a future grounded in human-centered values and ethical considerations.
Main Topics Covered:
Overview of Canada's AI for All Strategy: core values, pillars, and legislative nuances.
How AI literacy is being integrated into K-12 education and what it should encompass.
The risks of social media and digital spaces and the importance of regulation.
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction: The importance of ongoing dialogue about AI in schools
02:16 - Canada's AI Strategy: Trust, opportunity, and sovereignty in focus
03:12 - Privacy safeguards for children and online safety measures
05:17 - Clarifying AI literacy: what it means for educators and students
06:36 - The existential questions: How AI challenges our understanding of language and humanity
08:48 - Values-driven AI adoption: Human-centered principles in education
11:06 - The unpredictability of AI's future and preparing students for an evolving landscape
12:47 - Stakeholder involvement: Avoiding top-down mandates in AI policy
15:58 - The role of early education and developmental considerations
21:28 - Digital literacy's current state and the influence of social media
24:42 - The impact of AI on self-expression and social-emotional development
25:06 - The Safe Social Media Act: Protecting youth from online harms
30:49 - Building trusting relationships to support children online
33:47 - The power of hope and collective action in shaping AI's future in education
References:
Canada’s AI Strategy
https://ised-isde.canada.ca/site/ised/en/canadas-national-artificial-intelligence-strategy-ai-all
Article: Canada Needs a National AI Literacy Strategy
https://theconversation.com/canada-needs-a-national-ai-literacy-strategy-to-help-students-navigate-ai-257513
AI literacy in K-12: a systematic literature review
Casal-Otero, L., Catala, A., Fernández-Morante, C. et al. AI literacy in K-12: a systematic literature review. IJ STEM Ed 10, 29 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40594-023-00418-7

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theptconference.substack.com
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38min
May 19, 2026 Ep. 6 Reframing Failure & Reigniting Curiosity: A Conference with Dr. Iya Whiteley.
Episode Summary
In this episode, Stephanie and Kristy chat with Dr. Iya Whiteley, a scientific innovator, space medic, and mother. Dr. Whiteley shares her framework for re-humanizing learning, one mindful of attention, vulnerability, and the infinite potential that already resides within us all. Click play and explore the profound potential within children and adults, emphasizing the importance of intuition, curiosity, and presence in learning. The discussion bridges childhood development, education reform, and human potential, highlighting how nurturing innate gifts can transform our approach to teaching and life. Whether you're an educator seeking to inspire or a parent eager to reconnect with your child's innate wisdom, this episode offers a transformative perspective and practical tools to thrive in an age of rapid change.
KEY TOPICS
The concept of children as spiritual teachers and innate wisdom
The importance of attention, presence, and curiosity in learning
How experiential and intuitive knowledge shape human development
The limitations of AI in understanding context and attention
Environment and relational dynamics in education
Reframing failure as a method of exploration and growth
The role of attention and vulnerability in resilience
Designing education systems that foster inquiry and creativity
How mindfulness and presence influence performance and motivation
Practical strategies for nurturing innate talents and curiosity
TIMESTAMPS
03:51 - The intuitive process in martial arts and dance, and its unconscious nature
07:23 - Designing pilot cockpits to optimize human attention and decision-making
09:47 - Connecting sports, engineering, and psychological performance
11:02 - Experiential learning and the role of teaching styles in engagement
14:25 - The power of allowing children to invent their methods
15:48 - The need for adaptive, curiosity-driven education amidst rapid technological changes
16:23 - The limitations of AI in understanding learner context and emotional nuance
19:29 - Creating environments that support unfiltered inquiry
24:35 - Environment shaping prior to problem-solving, reducing fear of failure 25:33 - Nature of curiosity and inquiry during early exploration
33:50 - Mentoring and co-teaching as methods for internalizing knowledge
37:19 - Reimagining education with AI and inquiry questions instead of answers
42:47 - Communicating through intuition and attentiveness in parenting
54:23 - Embracing failure as a pathway to success and creativity
Resources and Links
Born Knowing: How Children Awaken the Sacred in Everyday Parenting
Center for Space Medicine - University College London
Cosmic Baby Academy
Never Miss a Conference:
Subscribe to our substack: https://theptconference.substack.com/
Follow us on Instagram: @parentteacherpod
Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theptconferencepod

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theptconference.substack.com
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56min
April 27, 2026 Ep. 5 Protecting Our Children
Protecting Our Children: A Conversation with Sara Austin
In this episode, Stephanie and Kristy delve into the critical issues surrounding children's safety, digital rights, and systemic barriers to human potential, featuring expert insights from Sara Austin, a renowned child rights advocate and CEO of Children First Canada. We explore how collective action and policy reform can shape a safer and more empowering future for children.
Main Topics Covered:
The systemic decline in Canada’s child wellbeing
Key threats facing children today, including and especially online harms
The importance of online safety legislation and corporate accountability
Practical strategies for parents and educators to safeguard children
The role of sport and extracurricular activities in healthy development and the need for systemic reform
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction and episode overview
02:06 - The global and national state of children's rights in Canada
04:35 - Current focus: online safety and upcoming legislation
07:00 - Threats to child safety in Canada, including climate and online harms
10:02 - Online safety risks like trafficking and cyberbullying
15:15 - Advocacy for an Online Safety Act and global comparisons
22:09 - The proliferation of AI toys and early exposure risks
27:26 - Policy inertia and the urgent need for legislation
30:38 - What parents and schools can do now to push for change
31:41 - The right to digital privacy and AI regulation
36:55 - Transforming sport and preventing abuse in Canadian athletics
45:05 - Final call: parent empowerment and advocacy
Resources & Links:
Children First Canada
Countdown for Kids - Online Safety Petition
Raising Canada Report 2026
Global Kids’ Rights Index
Ontario School Board Policies on Digital Devices
Future of Sport in Canada Commission Final Report Transforming Sport in Canada: Time for Action - Canada.ca
Banning children under 16 from social media platforms widely supported by parents and most Canadians:

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theptconference.substack.com
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47min
March 25, 2026 Ep.4 Human Potential & A System Under Stress
In this episode, Stephanie and Kristy explore the critical factors influencing human potential within our schools. They delve into how trust, environment, and mindset shape a child's capacity to thrive and grow.
Key Topics
The definition of human potential: trust, harmony, and creative expression
Trust dynamics between parents and schools, and the current systemic challenges
Environmental conditions affecting safety, violence, and mental health in schools
The impact of large class sizes, resource gaps, and systemic pressures on child development
The shift from collective to individualistic goals in education over decades
The role of growth mindset and resilience in overcoming failure and setbacks
< Timestamps >
00:00 - Introduction to human potential and its significance in education
01:32 - How schools influence children’s innate potential
02:43 - Spheres of influence and the impact of environment on development
05:05 - Trust between parents and schools: current state and challenges
07:06 - System breakdowns: governance, violence, and safety concerns
10:00 - Environment's role in shaping outcomes; the concept of adaptability
11:40 - Structural overview of Ontario's education system
13:01 - Systemic issues: violence, unmet needs, and systemic strain
16:10 - Legal responsibilities and the importance of safe spaces
19:11 - The legal doctrine "in loco parentis" and its implications
21:57 - Violence as communication of unmet needs
23:39 - Supports needed: smaller class sizes, mental health resources, and staff
26:21 - Shifting goals in education: from collective to individual success
27:15 - Students' career aspirations driven by individual gain and societal influence
33:10 - Carol Dweck’s growth vs. fixed mindset — fostering resilience
35:12 - Words of encouragement fostering a growth mindset in children
37:17 - Personal examples of growth mindset in sports and life
39:34 - The importance of love, relationships, and environment in nurturing potential
44:33 - Extracurriculars as models for exploration and joy in learning
47:14 - Summary: positive conditions and hope for transforming education
References:
Gabor Maté — The Myth of Normal
OECTA Violence Report: https://www.catholicteachers.ca/OECTA/media/pdfs/News/2026/Violence-Survey-Report_Feb-2026.pdf
The Mindset: The New Psychology for Success by Carol Dweck
Join the Conference
Instagram: @parentteacherpod
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theptconferencepod

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theptconference.substack.com
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49min
March 10, 2026 Ep. 3 AI and the Developing Brain.
Episode Summary
In this episode, we explore how childhood brain development intersects with artificial intelligence, touch on the importance of relational learning and language, and discuss the potential risks and opportunities AI presents for young minds. Join us as Dr. Robert DeSantis, a neurologist and educator, shares deep insights from neuroscience and his medical practice, offering guidance for parents, educators, and professionals.
Dr. De Santis is a U of T and Stanford trained Neurologist. He completed his medical school at Western University and then his subspecialty, training in neurology at the University of Toronto, where he was chief resident. He is currently completing advanced training with a fellowship at Stanford in neurohospitalist medicine. His past research includes deep dives into epilepsy and genetic syndromes, and his current research is focused on the effects of pregnancy in the maternal brain. In addition to his day-to-day medical training on the neurology wards and lecturing at both U of T and Stanford, he is currently pursuing a master's in health education at the University of Ottawa.
Key Topics
How the child's brain develops from birth to adolescence
The crucial role of relational learning and language in shaping a child's worldview and emotional health
The impact of early screen time and digital devices on language and social-emotional development
The potential hazards of AI, including misinformation, bias, and influence on impulse control during adolescence
The addictive qualities of social media and digital platforms, and strategies for healthy boundaries
How AI can both hinder and support emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and trust in healthcare and education
The importance of balancing technological tools with in-person interactions and experiential learning
Trust and objectivity in AI—medical and educational implications of reliance on algorithms
Recommendations for parents and teachers: mindful integration of AI, fostering real social connection, and cultivating intuition and empathy
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction to child's brain development stages
02:37 - How the child's brain differs from an adult's: gray matter, white matter, and neural wiring
04:56 - The significance of adolescence in impulse control and reward systems
07:03 - Why understanding brain development helps us interpret children's behaviors and emotions
08:19 - The influence of early experiences, cause and effect, and language on child understanding
09:16 - The role of human connection in early brain wiring and language development
10:12 - Language as a tool for cognitive and social growth across cultures
11:50 - Impact of limited social interactions and early screen time on language and social skills
14:10 - The importance of multiple aspects of language: verbal, non-verbal, tonal, and emotional cues
15:21 - Parental instinct and observing developmental milestones; effects of early screen exposure
16:47 - How AI may affect stages of brain development and social-emotional learning
18:06 - Risks of AI in adolescence: impulsivity, cheating, and superficial learning

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1h 12min
February 23, 2026 Ep. 2 AI Chatbots: What Parents Need to Know.
In this episode Kristy and Stephanie delve into the complex and concerning world of companion AI, particularly its implications for children and adolescents. The conversation takes a serious turn as they address the potential risks associated with these technologies, including emotional manipulation, social isolation, and exposure to harmful content. The hosts share real-life cases that illustrate the dangers of companion AI, including instances of grooming, self-harm, and suicide. They stress the necessity for parents to understand the technology their children are interacting with and to foster environments where open communication is encouraged. The episode concludes with a call to action for parents to educate themselves about AI, establish boundaries, and prioritize human connections to mitigate the risks posed by these digital companions.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to Companion AI
01:50 Understanding the Risks of Companion AI
05:18 Defining Companion AI vs. Generative AI
10:12 The Emotional Impact of Companion AI
18:27 The Role of Parents in AI Awareness
32:46 Exploring Real-World Risks of Companion AI
39:35 The Emotional Manipulation of AI
40:10 Establishing Boundaries for Children
41:34 Real-Life Cases of AI Dangers
49:21 The Escalation of Risks with AI
56:03 The Erosion of Resiliency in Youth
01:08:41 Finding Hope and Solutions for Parents
Resources:
5 C’s of Media Use for School Aged Children (AAP)
https://downloads.aap.org/AAP/PDF/CoE_5Cs_School_Aged_Children.pdf?_gl=1*wwqasx*_ga*NjY1OTI4NDk4LjE3Njg2MTE5MzA.*_ga_FD9D3XZVQQ*czE3Njg2MTE5MjkkbzEkZzEkdDE3Njg2MTE5OTUkajU4JGwwJGgw
Connect Safely.org (Parents guide to social media & digital Wellness)https://connectsafely.org/parents-guide-to-social-media-and-digital-wellness/
Common Sense Media AI Risk Assessment:
https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/featured-content/files/csm-ai-risk-assessment-mental-health-11142025.pdf
AI advisory report:
https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/research/report/talk-trust-and-trade-offs_2025_web.pdf
Stanford Report:
https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2025/08/ai-companions-chatbots-teens-young-people-risks-dangers-study
Social Media Victims Law Center:
https://socialmediavictims.org/chatgpt-lawsuits/
References:
https://www.reuters.com/investigates/special-report/meta-ai-chatbot-guidelines/
https://hbr.org/data-visuals/2025/04/top-10-gen-al-use-cases

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theptconference.substack.com
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54min
February 09, 2026 Ep. 1 AI in the Classroom: A Parent's Guide
Navigating AI in Education: Insights for Parents and Educators
In this episode, Kristy and Stephanie explore the rapidly evolving role of AI in schools, its potential benefits, risks, and the importance of maintaining human connection and relational learning. They share practical guidance, resources, and questions to help you think critically about AI's place in your child's educational journey.
Timestamps:
(00:17) – Introduction to the podcast and hosts’ backgrounds
(06:58) – What is AI and how is it used in schools?
(10:10) – Concerns about AI replacing relational learning
(13:32) – The social and emotional impacts of AI on connection
(17:12) – The role of grades and performance in AI reliance
(18:57) – Summarizing the lack of regulation and privacy risks
(35:28) – Opportunities and guidance for AI in education from Common Sense Media
(37:08) – Critical questions for evaluating AI tools
(38:21) – Next episodes preview on companion AI and brain development
Resources:
AI and Our Kids - Common Sense Media
https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/featured-content/final-ai-and-our-kids-final-for-web.pdf
References:
PEW Research Study: https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2025/01/15/about-a-quarter-of-us-teens-have-used-chatgpt-for-schoolwork-double-the-share-in-2023/
KPMG Study: https://kpmg.com/ca/en/home/media/press-releases/2024/10/students-using-gen-ai-say-they-are-not-learning-as-much.html
Harvard Graduate School of Education: https://www.gse.harvard.edu/ideas/usable-knowledge/24/09/students-are-using-ai-already-heres-what-they-think-adults-should-know
Canadian Teacher’s Federation: AI in Public Education https://www.ctf-fce.ca/take-action/ai-in-public-education/
Ontario Framework for AI: https://www.ontario.ca/page/ontarios-trustworthy-artificial-intelligence-ai-framework
Additional Notes: This is the first in a series investigating AI and education—stay tuned for deeper dives into companion AI and expert insights into the developing brain.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theptconference.substack.com
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40min

FAQs about The Parent Teacher Conference:

How many episodes does The Parent Teacher Conference have?

The podcast currently has 10 episodes available.