Cynthia and Josie sit down for an honest, feel-good conversation about parenting, growth, and figuring it all out as they go. They share stories about big kid emotions, favourite mantras, and lessons from the past year; plus why empathy, reflection, and soaking up time with loved ones matter more than ever. It’s real, relatable, and full of heart.

Takeaways

• Cynthia's son expressed a profound realization about time and relationships.
• Listening to children during moments of distress can lead to meaningful conversations.
• Mantras can serve as guiding principles in life.
• Confusion does not equate to being lost or behind in life.
• Reflecting on the past year can reveal unexpected accomplishments.
• Teaching children about empathy and giving is crucial.
• Conversations about difficult topics can strengthen parent-child relationships.
• Personal growth often comes from navigating grief and loss.
• Finding joy in everyday moments is essential for happiness.
• The importance of self-awareness in managing ambitions and expectations.

Questions To Ask Yourself:

1. If this past year was a movie, what was the genre and what was the basic synopsis?

2. What moments in 2025 made me feel most alive?

3. Where did I grow the most?

4. How did I really spend my time and energy?

5. Who shaped this year with me?

6. If I had to name the one thing I’m most proud of this year, what would it be and why?

7. On a scale of 1-10...how would I honestly rate my happiness or sense of contentment this year and what influenced that number most?

8. What surprised me the most this year?

9. As I look toward the year ahead, what would be the highest, wisest use of my talents and attention?

In this episode, we sit down with W5’s Avery Haines to talk about her powerful investigation into a global online network of men who secretly drug, assault, and film their own partners and then share that abuse with others. Avery walks us through how she infiltrated this hidden world, what she uncovered, and the shocking truth about predators operating in plain sight.

Links:

W5

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