In this powerful Part 1 conversation on Well, Hello Anxiety, Dr Jodi Richardson is joined by Melbourne-based guest Dara Simkin—founder of Culture Hero, co-author of Full Stack Human: The Mindset Upgrade You Need to Stay Human in a World Ruled by Technology, and Australia’s leading play-at-work specialist.

Together, they unpack why so many of us feel overwhelmed, anxious, and “frazzled” in 2026—even when life on paper looks fine. Dara explores how our nervous system, shaped for survival in a very different world, is now constantly reacting to modern-day stressors like financial pressure, global uncertainty, and nonstop information overload.

At the heart of this conversation is a surprising antidote: play. Dara explains why play isn’t something we “earn” after work, but a vital biological and emotional reset that helps regulate the nervous system, reduce cortisol-driven stress states, and bring us back into connection, presence, and adaptability. She also introduces the idea of “intelligent optimism,” “strategic hope,” and why curiosity and small, playful moments can shift how we experience daily life.

Jodi and Dara also explore the tension between growth and fear, the subconscious drivers behind anxiety and achievement, and why we often mistake survival patterns for personality traits.

This episode also introduces Dara’s work in organisations through Culture Hero and her research-backed approach to play, belonging, and adaptability.

Dara Simkin is a Melbourne-based consultant, speaker, and author, originally from the US, and brings a deeply human, practical lens to navigating modern anxiety and change.

📘 Learn more about Full Stack Human: https://fullstackhumanbook.com

Part 2 continues next week, where Dara shares practical, real-life ways to integrate play into everyday routines to help calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety.

Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson:

https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQ

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, host Dr Jodi Richardson continues unpacking the realities of online safety with cyber safety expert Susan McLean.

From the alarming reality of online grooming to the simple but crucial “4 F’s” framework — flattery, favouritism, forbidden fruit and fear — Susan breaks down exactly how predators operate, and how parents can recognise the warning signs early.

This episode dives into:

• Why grooming can happen in as little as days
• How to actively (and appropriately) monitor your child’s online world
• The truth about platforms like Roblox
• Why digital gift cards and in-game currency are a major red flag
• The growing concern around tracking in teen relationships and coercive control
• How to start age-appropriate conversations that actually stick

Susan shares practical, no-nonsense advice to help parents stay informed, involved and empowered — because when it comes to online safety, doing nothing is not an option.

Learn more + connect:

• Susan McLean: https://www.cybersafetysolutions.com.au
• Book: Growing Up Digital (available via Amazon & Booktopia)
• Google | Snapchat | Meta

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Jodi Richardson is joined by cyber safety expert Susan McLean for a powerful and eye-opening conversation about the realities of raising kids in a digital world.

From the illusion of online anonymity to the very real risks of sextortion, Susan shares what every parent needs to understand about how children are navigating life online - and why being “safe at home” doesn’t always mean being safe on the internet.

With over three decades of experience, including her time as a former Victoria Police officer in the Sex Crimes and Child Abuse Investigation Unit, Susan brings practical, no-nonsense advice to help families stay informed, aware and proactive.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why kids behave differently online—and the truth about digital footprints
• What sextortion is, how it happens, and why teen boys are increasingly being targeted
• The legal realities around sharing explicit images
• Why “one conversation” isn’t enough when it comes to online safety
• How to create ongoing, everyday conversations that actually protect your child

This is an essential listen for any parent wanting to better understand the risks—and how to support their kids with confidence, clarity and care.

Resources & Links:
Find Susan McLean’s book Growing Up Digital: Helping Your Kids and Teens Navigate Life Online via her website:
Cyber Safety Solutions – https://www.cybersafetysolutions.com.au

Also available at major retailers including Amazon and Booktopia.

Connect with Dr Jodi Richardson:

https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQ

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.