Supporting Creativity, Underdogs and Big Dreams with Gordon Korman
Shaping Our World
What can nearly five decades of writing for young people teach us about creativity, belonging and growing up? In this episode, host Chris Tompkins talks with beloved Canadian author Gordon Korman, whose 100+ books have reached millions of readers around the world. Gordon shares how a Grade 7 assignment launched his writing career, why he’s drawn to underdogs and outsiders, and why great stories continue to resonate with kids despite an ever-changing world. He also offers thoughtful advice for parents on encouraging young people’s passions: provide support, give them room to explore and...
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Helping Kids Navigate Conflict with Kathleen Hilchey
Shaping Our World
In this episode of Shaping Our World, Chris Tompkins sits down with conflict specialist, mediator and educator Kathleen Hilchey to explore how adults can help young people navigate conflict and bullying. Kathleen shares practical strategies for managing big emotions, knowing when to step in and helping kids develop their own conflict-resolution skills. She introduces her memorable "Kleenex box and toolbox" approach and explains why young people need opportunities to work through conflict rather than simply avoid it. It’s a practical conversation about helping kids build resilience,...
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Shaping Our World Replay: Leading by Example with Charles Roberts
Shaping Our World
Finding a summer job isn't easy this year. But that doesn't mean young people have to put their growth on hold. With one of the toughest summer job markets in years, many teens are missing out on opportunities to build confidence, responsibility and real-world skills. That's why we're revisiting one of our favourite conversations from the Shaping Our World archives. In this episode, Charles Roberts, CEO of LiveDifferent, shares why qualities like resilience, initiative, leadership and compassion aren't developed only through a paycheque. They're built whenever young people choose to serve...
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The Resilience Advantage with David Thomas
Shaping Our World
How do we raise kids who can navigate anxiety, pressure, and an increasingly complex world with confidence? In this episode, Chris Tompkins sits down with licensed therapist, bestselling author, and parenting expert David Thomas to explore what today’s kids need most. David shares practical strategies for building emotional resilience, helping children express their feelings, managing technology and comparison, and knowing when to seek extra support. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, educator, coach, or youth worker, this conversation is packed with encouraging, actionable insights to...
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Peter Katz on Storytelling, Belonging and What Matters Most
Shaping Our World
In this episode of Shaping Our World, Chris Tompkins sits down with Juno-nominated musician, keynote speaker and facilitator, Peter Katz. Peter shares how music, storytelling, summer camp and meaningful relationships shaped his life and work with young people. Together, they explore why being seen, heard and valued matters so much, especially for youth navigating challenge, change and identity. Peter offers practical insight for parents and leaders on building trust, inviting better conversations and celebrating the moments that matter most. His stories remind us that small acts of...
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Hannah Dannecker on Gen Z, Work and Growing Up
Shaping Our World
In this episode, Chris Tompkins talks with Hannah Dannecker about helping young people understand who they are before deciding what they want to do. Hannah shares how early career exploration can shape confidence, purpose and future choices, and why adults play an important role in exposing youth to different paths. She also unpacks common misconceptions about Gen Z in the workplace, including their need for trust, mentorship, flexibility and growth. With insight from her work as an author, speaker and former Muskoka Woods staff member, Hannah offers practical ways to support young people...
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Mohawk Olympian Waneek Horn-Miller on Leadership, Courage and Shaping the Next Generation
Shaping Our World
Before she became an Olympian and one of Canada’s leading voices in sport and reconciliation, Waneek Horn-Miller survived a near-fatal incident during the Oka Crisis as a teenager. In this episode, Waneek shares how sport helped shape her resilience, identity and leadership. She reflects on the influence of her family, the importance of cultural connection, and why access to sport can be life changing for young people. From overcoming barriers to advocating for future generations, Waneek offers powerful insights on courage, community and using your gifts to create change. This conversation...
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Character, Courage and the Stories That Shape Us with Karise Hutchinson
Shaping Our World
In this episode of Shaping Our World, Chris Tompkins sits down with leadership professor and Illuminaire Institute founder Karise Hutchinson to explore what it means to raise wise, resilient, young leaders in a world full of noise and uncertainty. Karise shares how character, courage and curiosity shape healthy leadership, both at home and in the workplace. Together, they discuss the impact of stories, social media, AI, family influence and intergenerational relationships on young people today. This thoughtful conversation offers practical insight for parents, educators and mentors who want to...
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Helping Families Rest Well with Alanna McGinn
Shaping Our World
Did you get your eight hours last night? In this episode of Shaping Our World, Chris Tompkins talks with sleep expert Alanna McGinn about why sleep matters for the whole family. Alanna shares practical insight for parents, caregivers and youth leaders on teen sleep rhythms, stress, anxiety, technology and the daily habits that help young people rest well. From family sleep meetings to tech boundaries and morning routines, this conversation offers clear, supportive ways to help youth build healthier sleep patterns and grow with confidence.
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Andini Makosinski on Invention, Failure and Following Creative Ideas
Shaping Our World
In this episode of the Shaping Our World podcast, Chris Tompkins speaks with inventor, writer and speaker Andini Makosinski about how creativity grows through curiosity, empathy and persistence. She shares the story behind the Hollow Flashlight and reflects on how failure can become helpful information for learning. Andini also encourages parents and leaders to create space for imagination so young people can grow confidence and begin shaping their world with purpose.
info_outlineAnxiety is a natural part of growing up—but knowing when it becomes a problem can be tough. In this episode, clinical psychologist Dr. Regine Galanti shares practical tools and compassionate insights for helping kids and teens navigate anxiety. From bedtime worries to school stress, Dr. Galanti unpacks evidence-based strategies for parents and caregivers. Tune in for a hopeful conversation that empowers families to foster resilience, confidence, and emotional growth in the young people they love.