Small Talk Podcast Transistor (https://transistor.fm) https://feeds.transistor.fm/kids-in-the-middle-podcast Leah Rando-Poller founded Kids In The Middle to help families navigate separation, school transitions, and shared parenting challenges. Her approach combines compassion with structure, ensuring that children feel supported and parents have practical tools to guide them through change. With more than three decades of experience as a teacher and school leader, Leah understands both how schools operate and how children respond emotionally to change. This background allows her to design effective handover models and support strategies that truly benefit students, families, and schools. © 2026 Leah Rando-Poller 20f491be-b8bc-5e08-904d-ac1d1b4fd6fb yes en Sat, 03 Oct 2026 09:39:25 +0800 Sat, 03 Oct 2026 09:40:14 +0800 https://www.kidsinthemiddle.au https://img.transistorcdn.com/5wnCVSFSmI52gAa4iVfOmj32GId0vqyiCcqOLiDr58M/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:1400/h:1400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS82YWFk/OTkyZmQzY2ZjNTdk/ZTIwNzhiNDNjMDE1/ODU0NS5wbmc.jpg Small Talk Podcast https://www.kidsinthemiddle.au episodic Leah Rando-Poller Leah Rando-Poller founded Kids In The Middle to help families navigate separation, school transitions, and shared parenting challenges. Her approach combines compassion with structure, ensuring that children feel supported and parents have practical tools to guide them through change. With more than three decades of experience as a teacher and school leader, Leah understands both how schools operate and how children respond emotionally to change. This background allows her to design effective handover models and support strategies that truly benefit students, families, and schools. Leah Rando-Poller founded Kids In The Middle to help families navigate separation, school transitions, and shared parenting challenges. Leah Rando-Poller No No Ep.14 Small Talk Podcast (Solo Series - You had a life before me) 14 14 Ep.14 Small Talk Podcast (Solo Series - You had a life before me) full 5026ac0f-63ce-47e6-b74d-9408dd6e501f https://share.transistor.fm/s/ecb424e7 Episode 14 — Wait… You Had a Life Before Me?
There comes a moment when children make an astonishing discovery: their parents
existed before they did. There are photos to prove it. You had friends. You went out.
You travelled. You had favourite music. You may even have been cool. And yes…that
really was your hair.
In this Small Talk Solo, Leah takes a funny and nostalgic look at what happens when
children discover the person behind Mum or Dad. Prepare for questions about old
clothes, ancient technology and the deeply offensive discovery that you were born in the
1900s.
But underneath the laughs is something rather lovely. Old photographs and family
stories give children the chance to know us as people — not only as parents. So drag
out the photo albums, tell them some stories and let them laugh at the fashion. Because
one day their children will be looking at their old photos asking exactly the same
question: “You actually wore THAT?”

]]> Episode 14 — Wait… You Had a Life Before Me?
There comes a moment when children make an astonishing discovery: their parents
existed before they did. There are photos to prove it. You had friends. You went out.
You travelled. You had favourite music. You may even have been cool. And yes…that
really was your hair.
In this Small Talk Solo, Leah takes a funny and nostalgic look at what happens when
children discover the person behind Mum or Dad. Prepare for questions about old
clothes, ancient technology and the deeply offensive discovery that you were born in the
1900s.
But underneath the laughs is something rather lovely. Old photographs and family
stories give children the chance to know us as people — not only as parents. So drag
out the photo albums, tell them some stories and let them laugh at the fashion. Because
one day their children will be looking at their old photos asking exactly the same
question: “You actually wore THAT?”

]]> Sat, 03 Oct 2026 09:39:25 +0800 Leah Rando-Poller Leah Rando-Poller 417 Episode 14 — Wait… You Had a Life Before Me?
There comes a moment when children make an astonishing discovery: their parents
existed before they did. There are photos to prove it. You had friends. You went out.
You travelled. You had favourite music. You may even have been cool. And yes…that
really was your hair.
In this Small Talk Solo, Leah takes a funny and nostalgic look at what happens when
children discover the person behind Mum or Dad. Prepare for questions about old
clothes, ancient technology and the deeply offensive discovery that you were born in the
1900s.
But underneath the laughs is something rather lovely. Old photographs and family
stories give children the chance to know us as people — not only as parents. So drag
out the photo albums, tell them some stories and let them laugh at the fashion. Because
one day their children will be looking at their old photos asking exactly the same
question: “You actually wore THAT?”

]]> No Ep.13 Small Talk Podcast (Solo Series - Bedtime) 13 13 Ep.13 Small Talk Podcast (Solo Series - Bedtime) full cd0812b5-ad65-4a9d-b822-15939120554e https://share.transistor.fm/s/961bedd3 Episode 13 — Why Do Children Always Want to Talk at Bedtime? You’ve had all afternoon. Dinner has happened. The dishes are done. Teeth are
brushed. The lights go off…and suddenly your child needs to talk. Not tomorrow. Not after breakfast. Now. In this Small Talk Solo, Leah looks at the strange phenomenon of bedtime becoming the moment children suddenly remember everything they’ve been meaning to tell you. Friendship problems, school worries, big questions, random thoughts — and occasionally something involving sharks, the dog or a question you couldn’t possibly have prepared for.
Yes, sometimes they’re stalling. But sometimes bedtime is simply when the world becomes quiet enough for the important stuff to come out. A warm and funny reminder that children don’t always talk when it’s convenient for us. Sometimes they talk when it finally feels right for them.

]]> Episode 13 — Why Do Children Always Want to Talk at Bedtime? You’ve had all afternoon. Dinner has happened. The dishes are done. Teeth are
brushed. The lights go off…and suddenly your child needs to talk. Not tomorrow. Not after breakfast. Now. In this Small Talk Solo, Leah looks at the strange phenomenon of bedtime becoming the moment children suddenly remember everything they’ve been meaning to tell you. Friendship problems, school worries, big questions, random thoughts — and occasionally something involving sharks, the dog or a question you couldn’t possibly have prepared for.
Yes, sometimes they’re stalling. But sometimes bedtime is simply when the world becomes quiet enough for the important stuff to come out. A warm and funny reminder that children don’t always talk when it’s convenient for us. Sometimes they talk when it finally feels right for them.

]]> Thu, 24 Sep 2026 17:29:38 +0800 Leah Rando-Poller Leah Rando-Poller 425 Episode 13 — Why Do Children Always Want to Talk at Bedtime? You’ve had all afternoon. Dinner has happened. The dishes are done. Teeth are
brushed. The lights go off…and suddenly your child needs to talk. Not tomorrow. Not after breakfast. Now. In this Small Talk Solo, Leah looks at the strange phenomenon of bedtime becoming the moment children suddenly remember everything they’ve been meaning to tell you. Friendship problems, school worries, big questions, random thoughts — and occasionally something involving sharks, the dog or a question you couldn’t possibly have prepared for.
Yes, sometimes they’re stalling. But sometimes bedtime is simply when the world becomes quiet enough for the important stuff to come out. A warm and funny reminder that children don’t always talk when it’s convenient for us. Sometimes they talk when it finally feels right for them.

]]> No Ep.12 Small Talk Podcast (Solo Series - Voice to Text) 12 12 Ep.12 Small Talk Podcast (Solo Series - Voice to Text) full ffa7eac0-f803-4bbf-b7ae-014057837185 https://share.transistor.fm/s/0d10f577 Episode 12 — Kids & Voice-to-Text: What Did You Just Send?
Remember when sending a text meant actually typing? Apparently, we’ve moved on.
Now we talk to our phones, trust them completely and press send — sometimes without
checking what they actually heard. What could possibly go wrong? Quite a lot, as it
turns out.
In this Small Talk Solo, Leah takes a funny look at kids, voice-to-text, voice messages,
background noise, autocorrect and those messages that make absolutely no sense
whatsoever. And then there’s the ultimate horror: sending it to the wrong person.
A light-hearted look at communicating in a world where our phones are
listening…although clearly not always very carefully. There’s one simple rule worth
remembering: before you press send — LOOK.

]]> Episode 12 — Kids & Voice-to-Text: What Did You Just Send?
Remember when sending a text meant actually typing? Apparently, we’ve moved on.
Now we talk to our phones, trust them completely and press send — sometimes without
checking what they actually heard. What could possibly go wrong? Quite a lot, as it
turns out.
In this Small Talk Solo, Leah takes a funny look at kids, voice-to-text, voice messages,
background noise, autocorrect and those messages that make absolutely no sense
whatsoever. And then there’s the ultimate horror: sending it to the wrong person.
A light-hearted look at communicating in a world where our phones are
listening…although clearly not always very carefully. There’s one simple rule worth
remembering: before you press send — LOOK.

]]> Fri, 18 Sep 2026 04:38:38 +0800 Leah Rando-Poller Leah Rando-Poller 386 Episode 12 — Kids & Voice-to-Text: What Did You Just Send?
Remember when sending a text meant actually typing? Apparently, we’ve moved on.
Now we talk to our phones, trust them completely and press send — sometimes without
checking what they actually heard. What could possibly go wrong? Quite a lot, as it
turns out.
In this Small Talk Solo, Leah takes a funny look at kids, voice-to-text, voice messages,
background noise, autocorrect and those messages that make absolutely no sense
whatsoever. And then there’s the ultimate horror: sending it to the wrong person.
A light-hearted look at communicating in a world where our phones are
listening…although clearly not always very carefully. There’s one simple rule worth
remembering: before you press send — LOOK.

]]> No Ep.11 Small Talk Podcast (Solo Series - But Mum Let's Me) 11 11 Ep.11 Small Talk Podcast (Solo Series - But Mum Let's Me) full a7a847a0-a6f2-4108-baf6-e421d916cb2d https://share.transistor.fm/s/88c083ce Episode 11  — But Mum Lets Me!
Five little words capable of stopping a parent in their tracks: “But Mum lets me!” Or
Dad. Or Grandma. Or apparently every other parent on the planet.
In this Small Talk Solo, Leah looks at what happens when children discover that
different homes have different rules — and become surprisingly skilled at pointing this
out. Bedtimes, screens, food and routines aren’t always going to be exactly the same
everywhere. And maybe they don’t need to be.
With plenty of humour and a reminder not to fall into the comparison trap, this episode is
about being comfortable with the rules in your own home without turning parenting into
a competition. Because sometimes the best response to “But Mum lets me…” really is:
“That’s okay. Things can be different here.”

]]> Episode 11  — But Mum Lets Me!
Five little words capable of stopping a parent in their tracks: “But Mum lets me!” Or
Dad. Or Grandma. Or apparently every other parent on the planet.
In this Small Talk Solo, Leah looks at what happens when children discover that
different homes have different rules — and become surprisingly skilled at pointing this
out. Bedtimes, screens, food and routines aren’t always going to be exactly the same
everywhere. And maybe they don’t need to be.
With plenty of humour and a reminder not to fall into the comparison trap, this episode is
about being comfortable with the rules in your own home without turning parenting into
a competition. Because sometimes the best response to “But Mum lets me…” really is:
“That’s okay. Things can be different here.”

]]> Fri, 11 Sep 2026 08:56:57 +0800 Leah Rando-Poller Leah Rando-Poller 364 Episode 11  — But Mum Lets Me!
Five little words capable of stopping a parent in their tracks: “But Mum lets me!” Or
Dad. Or Grandma. Or apparently every other parent on the planet.
In this Small Talk Solo, Leah looks at what happens when children discover that
different homes have different rules — and become surprisingly skilled at pointing this
out. Bedtimes, screens, food and routines aren’t always going to be exactly the same
everywhere. And maybe they don’t need to be.
With plenty of humour and a reminder not to fall into the comparison trap, this episode is
about being comfortable with the rules in your own home without turning parenting into
a competition. Because sometimes the best response to “But Mum lets me…” really is:
“That’s okay. Things can be different here.”

]]> No Ep.10 Small Talk Podcast (Solo Series - Where did the clothes go ?) 10 10 Ep.10 Small Talk Podcast (Solo Series - Where did the clothes go ?) full b3158d49-bca1-476e-9acf-525db88985b8 https://share.transistor.fm/s/76664892 Episode 10 — Clothes: Where Did They All Go?
School jumpers disappear. Socks vanish without explanation. The good clothes migrate
to the other house and somehow never quite find their way home. Then clothes you’ve
never bought start appearing in your laundry. Welcome to the travelling wardrobe of
separated family life.
In this Small Talk Solo, Leah takes a humorous look at what happens when children,
clothes and two households collide. Because children have enough to remember
without becoming wardrobe managers as well. Who bought the jumper? Which house
owns the shorts? Where are the school socks?
Sometimes it’s worth sorting out, and sometimes…it’s just a T-shirt. A relatable
reminder that children should be free to move between the people they love without
worrying about which house owns what’s currently on their back.

]]> Episode 10 — Clothes: Where Did They All Go?
School jumpers disappear. Socks vanish without explanation. The good clothes migrate
to the other house and somehow never quite find their way home. Then clothes you’ve
never bought start appearing in your laundry. Welcome to the travelling wardrobe of
separated family life.
In this Small Talk Solo, Leah takes a humorous look at what happens when children,
clothes and two households collide. Because children have enough to remember
without becoming wardrobe managers as well. Who bought the jumper? Which house
owns the shorts? Where are the school socks?
Sometimes it’s worth sorting out, and sometimes…it’s just a T-shirt. A relatable
reminder that children should be free to move between the people they love without
worrying about which house owns what’s currently on their back.

]]> Fri, 11 Sep 2026 08:56:43 +0800 Leah Rando-Poller Leah Rando-Poller 318 Episode 10 — Clothes: Where Did They All Go?
School jumpers disappear. Socks vanish without explanation. The good clothes migrate
to the other house and somehow never quite find their way home. Then clothes you’ve
never bought start appearing in your laundry. Welcome to the travelling wardrobe of
separated family life.
In this Small Talk Solo, Leah takes a humorous look at what happens when children,
clothes and two households collide. Because children have enough to remember
without becoming wardrobe managers as well. Who bought the jumper? Which house
owns the shorts? Where are the school socks?
Sometimes it’s worth sorting out, and sometimes…it’s just a T-shirt. A relatable
reminder that children should be free to move between the people they love without
worrying about which house owns what’s currently on their back.

]]> No Ep.9 Small Talk Podcast (Solo Series - Missing Shoes) 9 9 Ep.9 Small Talk Podcast (Solo Series - Missing Shoes) full 7e889e5c-40d7-4141-9d16-eeb4c4d53238 https://share.transistor.fm/s/167ada7b Episode 9 — Where on Earth Are Your School Shoes?
It’s a school morning. Everyone needs to leave. The bags are packed, lunch is sorted,
and then comes the question capable of bringing the entire operation to a halt: “Where
are your school shoes?”

Suddenly everyone is searching. Bedrooms, cupboards, under beds, behind doors, in
the car — because apparently school shoes have the ability to disappear overnight. And
when children move between homes, there’s always one more possibility: “I think
they’re at Mum’s.” Or Dad’s. Excellent.
In this Small Talk Solo, Leah takes a funny look at the morning chaos of missing shoes
and the extra layer that comes with children moving between households. Because
sometimes things will get left behind, and children don’t need an adult argument
attached to every missing item. Find another pair if you can, solve the immediate
problem, and remember: sometimes the shoes are just shoes.

]]> Episode 9 — Where on Earth Are Your School Shoes?
It’s a school morning. Everyone needs to leave. The bags are packed, lunch is sorted,
and then comes the question capable of bringing the entire operation to a halt: “Where
are your school shoes?”

Suddenly everyone is searching. Bedrooms, cupboards, under beds, behind doors, in
the car — because apparently school shoes have the ability to disappear overnight. And
when children move between homes, there’s always one more possibility: “I think
they’re at Mum’s.” Or Dad’s. Excellent.
In this Small Talk Solo, Leah takes a funny look at the morning chaos of missing shoes
and the extra layer that comes with children moving between households. Because
sometimes things will get left behind, and children don’t need an adult argument
attached to every missing item. Find another pair if you can, solve the immediate
problem, and remember: sometimes the shoes are just shoes.

]]> Thu, 10 Sep 2026 11:26:13 +0800 Leah Rando-Poller Leah Rando-Poller 376 Episode 9 — Where on Earth Are Your School Shoes?
It’s a school morning. Everyone needs to leave. The bags are packed, lunch is sorted,
and then comes the question capable of bringing the entire operation to a halt: “Where
are your school shoes?”

Suddenly everyone is searching. Bedrooms, cupboards, under beds, behind doors, in
the car — because apparently school shoes have the ability to disappear overnight. And
when children move between homes, there’s always one more possibility: “I think
they’re at Mum’s.” Or Dad’s. Excellent.
In this Small Talk Solo, Leah takes a funny look at the morning chaos of missing shoes
and the extra layer that comes with children moving between households. Because
sometimes things will get left behind, and children don’t need an adult argument
attached to every missing item. Find another pair if you can, solve the immediate
problem, and remember: sometimes the shoes are just shoes.

]]> No Ep.8 Small Talk Podcast (Solo Series - Tupperware) 8 8 Ep.8 Small Talk Podcast (Solo Series - Tupperware) full fc45469f-9cc6-4d21-925b-e292f8fa5907 https://share.transistor.fm/s/bd7ea41c Episode 8 — The Great Tupperware Custody Battle
Where does all the Tupperware go? You pack the lunch, send off the container…and
somehow it disappears into the mysterious world between school, backpacks and two
homes. Meanwhile, random containers you’ve never seen before start turning up in your
cupboard.
In the first Small Talk Solo, Leah tackles one of separated family life’s lesser-known
challenges: the travelling Tupperware collection. It’s funny because it’s true, but there’s
a simple message underneath it. Children shouldn’t have to become couriers,
messengers or keepers of the household inventory.
Sometimes a missing container is annoying. Sometimes it’s one of the good ones,
which admittedly hurts a little more. But sometimes…it’s just Tupperware. A light-
hearted look at keeping the little things little — and the kids out of the middle

]]> Episode 8 — The Great Tupperware Custody Battle
Where does all the Tupperware go? You pack the lunch, send off the container…and
somehow it disappears into the mysterious world between school, backpacks and two
homes. Meanwhile, random containers you’ve never seen before start turning up in your
cupboard.
In the first Small Talk Solo, Leah tackles one of separated family life’s lesser-known
challenges: the travelling Tupperware collection. It’s funny because it’s true, but there’s
a simple message underneath it. Children shouldn’t have to become couriers,
messengers or keepers of the household inventory.
Sometimes a missing container is annoying. Sometimes it’s one of the good ones,
which admittedly hurts a little more. But sometimes…it’s just Tupperware. A light-
hearted look at keeping the little things little — and the kids out of the middle

]]> Thu, 10 Sep 2026 11:25:55 +0800 Leah Rando-Poller Leah Rando-Poller 377 Episode 8 — The Great Tupperware Custody Battle
Where does all the Tupperware go? You pack the lunch, send off the container…and
somehow it disappears into the mysterious world between school, backpacks and two
homes. Meanwhile, random containers you’ve never seen before start turning up in your
cupboard.
In the first Small Talk Solo, Leah tackles one of separated family life’s lesser-known
challenges: the travelling Tupperware collection. It’s funny because it’s true, but there’s
a simple message underneath it. Children shouldn’t have to become couriers,
messengers or keepers of the household inventory.
Sometimes a missing container is annoying. Sometimes it’s one of the good ones,
which admittedly hurts a little more. But sometimes…it’s just Tupperware. A light-
hearted look at keeping the little things little — and the kids out of the middle

]]> No Ep.7 Small Talk Podcast (Carrina Hampton) 7 7 Ep.7 Small Talk Podcast (Carrina Hampton) full f4966af0-d420-429d-864a-4ea1e97f2828 https://share.transistor.fm/s/072fed11 Families can be complicated. Separation can be complicated. Add blended families, co-parenting, big emotions and children trying to make sense of it all… and there’s plenty to talk about!

In this episode of Small Talk, an extension of Kids In The Middle™, I’m joined by Carrina Hampton, an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Clinical Family Therapist with more than 20 years’ experience working with children, parents, couples and families.

We chat about separated and blended family life, communication and conflict, what happens when cooperative co-parenting simply isn’t possible, and an important question — what might a child’s behaviour actually be trying to tell us?

At Kids In The Middle™, the focus is on keeping children at the centre of our thinking, without placing them in the middle of adult issues.

Real families, real challenges and practical conversations that help us look at things a little differently.

Small Talk – Practical Conversations That Put Children First.

 Kids In The Middle™: www.kidsinthemiddle.au Small Talk Podcast: www.kidsinthemiddle.au

]]> Families can be complicated. Separation can be complicated. Add blended families, co-parenting, big emotions and children trying to make sense of it all… and there’s plenty to talk about!

In this episode of Small Talk, an extension of Kids In The Middle™, I’m joined by Carrina Hampton, an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Clinical Family Therapist with more than 20 years’ experience working with children, parents, couples and families.

We chat about separated and blended family life, communication and conflict, what happens when cooperative co-parenting simply isn’t possible, and an important question — what might a child’s behaviour actually be trying to tell us?

At Kids In The Middle™, the focus is on keeping children at the centre of our thinking, without placing them in the middle of adult issues.

Real families, real challenges and practical conversations that help us look at things a little differently.

Small Talk – Practical Conversations That Put Children First.

 Kids In The Middle™: www.kidsinthemiddle.au Small Talk Podcast: www.kidsinthemiddle.au

]]> Mon, 10 Aug 2026 17:10:11 +0800 Leah Rando-Poller Leah Rando-Poller 2327 Families can be complicated. Separation can be complicated. Add blended families, co-parenting, big emotions and children trying to make sense of it all… and there’s plenty to talk about!

In this episode of Small Talk, an extension of Kids In The Middle™, I’m joined by Carrina Hampton, an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Clinical Family Therapist with more than 20 years’ experience working with children, parents, couples and families.

We chat about separated and blended family life, communication and conflict, what happens when cooperative co-parenting simply isn’t possible, and an important question — what might a child’s behaviour actually be trying to tell us?

At Kids In The Middle™, the focus is on keeping children at the centre of our thinking, without placing them in the middle of adult issues.

Real families, real challenges and practical conversations that help us look at things a little differently.

Small Talk – Practical Conversations That Put Children First.

 Kids In The Middle™: www.kidsinthemiddle.au Small Talk Podcast: www.kidsinthemiddle.au

]]> No Ep.6 Small Talk Podcast (Tiffany Staples) 6 6 Ep.6 Small Talk Podcast (Tiffany Staples) full e1900e8c-8bc6-41fa-b5dc-3a88e0531203 https://share.transistor.fm/s/bde49dec Schools are so much more than a place to learn reading, writing and maths. They’re where children celebrate their wins, navigate friendships, carry big emotions… and sometimes quietly cope with the challenges of family separation.

In this episode of Small Talk, Leah chats with experienced school principal Tiffany Staples about what really happens behind the school gates. From awkward school car park handovers and communication between parents to helping children feel safe, settled and ready to learn, Tiffany shares practical insights drawn from years of working alongside families.

You’ll hear what schools wish parents knew, the behaviours staff notice, the simple things that make a child’s day easier, and how adults can work together—even when they’re no longer together.

It’s an honest, relaxed conversation filled with real stories, practical tips and plenty of reassurance for parents, educators and professionals supporting children through family change.

If you’ve ever wondered what schools see, what children need most, or how to make school a positive place during separation, this episode is for you.

Because when home and schoolwork together, children don’t just cope—they have the best chance to flourish.

Listen now, and don’t forget to explore our other Small Talk episodes and practical resources at www.kidsinthemiddle.au or wherever you get your podcasts.

]]> Schools are so much more than a place to learn reading, writing and maths. They’re where children celebrate their wins, navigate friendships, carry big emotions… and sometimes quietly cope with the challenges of family separation.

In this episode of Small Talk, Leah chats with experienced school principal Tiffany Staples about what really happens behind the school gates. From awkward school car park handovers and communication between parents to helping children feel safe, settled and ready to learn, Tiffany shares practical insights drawn from years of working alongside families.

You’ll hear what schools wish parents knew, the behaviours staff notice, the simple things that make a child’s day easier, and how adults can work together—even when they’re no longer together.

It’s an honest, relaxed conversation filled with real stories, practical tips and plenty of reassurance for parents, educators and professionals supporting children through family change.

If you’ve ever wondered what schools see, what children need most, or how to make school a positive place during separation, this episode is for you.

Because when home and schoolwork together, children don’t just cope—they have the best chance to flourish.

Listen now, and don’t forget to explore our other Small Talk episodes and practical resources at www.kidsinthemiddle.au or wherever you get your podcasts.

]]> Sat, 18 Jul 2026 14:25:50 +0800 Leah Rando-Poller Leah Rando-Poller 1809 Schools are so much more than a place to learn reading, writing and maths. They’re where children celebrate their wins, navigate friendships, carry big emotions… and sometimes quietly cope with the challenges of family separation.

In this episode of Small Talk, Leah chats with experienced school principal Tiffany Staples about what really happens behind the school gates. From awkward school car park handovers and communication between parents to helping children feel safe, settled and ready to learn, Tiffany shares practical insights drawn from years of working alongside families.

You’ll hear what schools wish parents knew, the behaviours staff notice, the simple things that make a child’s day easier, and how adults can work together—even when they’re no longer together.

It’s an honest, relaxed conversation filled with real stories, practical tips and plenty of reassurance for parents, educators and professionals supporting children through family change.

If you’ve ever wondered what schools see, what children need most, or how to make school a positive place during separation, this episode is for you.

Because when home and schoolwork together, children don’t just cope—they have the best chance to flourish.

Listen now, and don’t forget to explore our other Small Talk episodes and practical resources at www.kidsinthemiddle.au or wherever you get your podcasts.

]]> No Ep.5 Small Talk Podcast (Alyssa Bradbury) 5 5 Ep.5 Small Talk Podcast (Alyssa Bradbury) full b550b529-3b3e-44b6-a111-63662eefadbb https://share.transistor.fm/s/f1ec8822 What can a 16-year-old teach us about confidence, leadership, resilience and making a difference?

Quite a lot, as it turns out.


In this episode, Leah sits down with Alyssa Bradbury, a remarkable young country woman who is already making a positive impact through sport, youth leadership and mentoring younger athletes. Growing up in the Southwest region of Western Australia, Alyssa shares what country life has taught her about community, resilience, hard work and the importance of giving things a go.

Together, they explore how sport can build confidence, lifelong friendships and mental wellbeing, while also talking honestly about the pressures young people can face. Alyssa reflects on coaching younger children, supporting other girls in sport, stepping into leadership roles and why it’s so important that young people feel heard, valued and encouraged to use their voice.

This is a genuine, uplifting conversation filled with warmth, humour and practical insights for parents, grandparents, teachers, coaches and anyone who wants to better understand and support the next generation. It’s a reminder that leadership doesn’t come with an age requirement, and sometimes the youngest voices offer the greatest wisdom.

Enjoyed this episode? Explore more conversations, resources and previous episodes at www.kidsinthemiddle.au, and follow Small Talk on your favourite podcast platform so you never miss an episode.

]]> What can a 16-year-old teach us about confidence, leadership, resilience and making a difference?

Quite a lot, as it turns out.


In this episode, Leah sits down with Alyssa Bradbury, a remarkable young country woman who is already making a positive impact through sport, youth leadership and mentoring younger athletes. Growing up in the Southwest region of Western Australia, Alyssa shares what country life has taught her about community, resilience, hard work and the importance of giving things a go.

Together, they explore how sport can build confidence, lifelong friendships and mental wellbeing, while also talking honestly about the pressures young people can face. Alyssa reflects on coaching younger children, supporting other girls in sport, stepping into leadership roles and why it’s so important that young people feel heard, valued and encouraged to use their voice.

This is a genuine, uplifting conversation filled with warmth, humour and practical insights for parents, grandparents, teachers, coaches and anyone who wants to better understand and support the next generation. It’s a reminder that leadership doesn’t come with an age requirement, and sometimes the youngest voices offer the greatest wisdom.

Enjoyed this episode? Explore more conversations, resources and previous episodes at www.kidsinthemiddle.au, and follow Small Talk on your favourite podcast platform so you never miss an episode.

]]> Wed, 15 Jul 2026 09:54:52 +0800 Leah Rando-Poller Leah Rando-Poller 2092 What can a 16-year-old teach us about confidence, leadership, resilience and making a difference?

Quite a lot, as it turns out.


In this episode, Leah sits down with Alyssa Bradbury, a remarkable young country woman who is already making a positive impact through sport, youth leadership and mentoring younger athletes. Growing up in the Southwest region of Western Australia, Alyssa shares what country life has taught her about community, resilience, hard work and the importance of giving things a go.

Together, they explore how sport can build confidence, lifelong friendships and mental wellbeing, while also talking honestly about the pressures young people can face. Alyssa reflects on coaching younger children, supporting other girls in sport, stepping into leadership roles and why it’s so important that young people feel heard, valued and encouraged to use their voice.

This is a genuine, uplifting conversation filled with warmth, humour and practical insights for parents, grandparents, teachers, coaches and anyone who wants to better understand and support the next generation. It’s a reminder that leadership doesn’t come with an age requirement, and sometimes the youngest voices offer the greatest wisdom.

Enjoyed this episode? Explore more conversations, resources and previous episodes at www.kidsinthemiddle.au, and follow Small Talk on your favourite podcast platform so you never miss an episode.

]]> No Ep.4 Small Talk Podcast (School Handovers) 4 4 Ep.4 Small Talk Podcast (School Handovers) full 554265f1-7094-4484-b6a6-b5c356db7522 https://share.transistor.fm/s/197122d8 School handovers happen every day, but have you ever stopped to think about what children experience during those few minutes in the school carpark?

In this episode of Small Talk, Leah shares stories and insights from nearly 30 years working in schools and her experience as a parent, step-parent and a Child Consultant. Together, we'll explore why calm, child-focused handovers matter, what children notice that adults often miss, and how small changes can make a big difference to a child's day.

Whether you're a parent, grandparent, carer, teacher or family professional, this episode is full of practical ideas to help children feel safer, more settled and ready to learn.

This podcast is general in nature and does not replace professional advice.

About Kids In The Middle Australia

Kids In The Middle Australia is dedicated to helping children thrive through family separation and life's many transitions. By working alongside parents, schools, workplaces and family professionals, Leah helps keep children's voices and needs at the centre of decision-making.


Learn more at www.kidsinthemiddle.au, and if you enjoyed this episode, please follow, share and join us for the next conversation on Small Talk.


 

]]> School handovers happen every day, but have you ever stopped to think about what children experience during those few minutes in the school carpark?

In this episode of Small Talk, Leah shares stories and insights from nearly 30 years working in schools and her experience as a parent, step-parent and a Child Consultant. Together, we'll explore why calm, child-focused handovers matter, what children notice that adults often miss, and how small changes can make a big difference to a child's day.

Whether you're a parent, grandparent, carer, teacher or family professional, this episode is full of practical ideas to help children feel safer, more settled and ready to learn.

This podcast is general in nature and does not replace professional advice.

About Kids In The Middle Australia

Kids In The Middle Australia is dedicated to helping children thrive through family separation and life's many transitions. By working alongside parents, schools, workplaces and family professionals, Leah helps keep children's voices and needs at the centre of decision-making.


Learn more at www.kidsinthemiddle.au, and if you enjoyed this episode, please follow, share and join us for the next conversation on Small Talk.


 

]]> Mon, 29 Jun 2026 17:06:17 +0800 Leah Rando-Poller Leah Rando-Poller 890 School handovers happen every day, but have you ever stopped to think about what children experience during those few minutes in the school carpark?

In this episode of Small Talk, Leah shares stories and insights from nearly 30 years working in schools and her experience as a parent, step-parent and a Child Consultant. Together, we'll explore why calm, child-focused handovers matter, what children notice that adults often miss, and how small changes can make a big difference to a child's day.

Whether you're a parent, grandparent, carer, teacher or family professional, this episode is full of practical ideas to help children feel safer, more settled and ready to learn.

This podcast is general in nature and does not replace professional advice.

About Kids In The Middle Australia

Kids In The Middle Australia is dedicated to helping children thrive through family separation and life's many transitions. By working alongside parents, schools, workplaces and family professionals, Leah helps keep children's voices and needs at the centre of decision-making.


Learn more at www.kidsinthemiddle.au, and if you enjoyed this episode, please follow, share and join us for the next conversation on Small Talk.


 

]]> No Ep.3 Small Talk Podcast - If children had a microphone 3 3 Ep.3 Small Talk Podcast - If children had a microphone full c436fdea-e52c-4500-b5cb-faa5dc8ecd2f https://share.transistor.fm/s/1fab5bb5 On this episode, we explore the everyday challenges, opportunities and conversations that shape childhood, family relationships and community connections. Because the smallest conversations can have the biggest impacts. Thank you for joining me and if you enjoy the podcast, please like, share and follow

]]> On this episode, we explore the everyday challenges, opportunities and conversations that shape childhood, family relationships and community connections. Because the smallest conversations can have the biggest impacts. Thank you for joining me and if you enjoy the podcast, please like, share and follow

]]> Fri, 12 Jun 2026 23:58:46 +0800 Leah Rando-Poller Leah Rando-Poller 694 On this episode, we explore the everyday challenges, opportunities and conversations that shape childhood, family relationships and community connections. Because the smallest conversations can have the biggest impacts. Thank you for joining me and if you enjoy the podcast, please like, share and follow

]]> No Ep.2 Small Talk Podcast - What is a Child Consultant ? 2 2 Ep.2 Small Talk Podcast - What is a Child Consultant ? full e872ba5e-dcdd-4bbe-9344-bfd367c18dca https://share.transistor.fm/s/0e7904f9 On this episode of the Small Talk Podcast, Leah take us behind the scenes of what is a child consultant and the importance of the role they play in supporting families understand the children's point of view in times of crisis and in times of need.
For more information - make sure to go to www.kidsinthemiddle.au 

]]> On this episode of the Small Talk Podcast, Leah take us behind the scenes of what is a child consultant and the importance of the role they play in supporting families understand the children's point of view in times of crisis and in times of need.
For more information - make sure to go to www.kidsinthemiddle.au 

]]> Wed, 10 Jun 2026 19:06:49 +0800 Leah Rando-Poller Leah Rando-Poller 701 On this episode of the Small Talk Podcast, Leah take us behind the scenes of what is a child consultant and the importance of the role they play in supporting families understand the children's point of view in times of crisis and in times of need.
For more information - make sure to go to www.kidsinthemiddle.au 

]]> No Ep.1 Small Talk Podcast 1 1 Ep.1 Small Talk Podcast full 23cf063e-8f77-4f70-8edf-3d9e76cb91b6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/c391ff8e In this episode, Leah shares her unique proposition and how life experience combined with professional experience has helped her shaped the solution-based approach to helping families going through a tough stage of life. 

]]> In this episode, Leah shares her unique proposition and how life experience combined with professional experience has helped her shaped the solution-based approach to helping families going through a tough stage of life. 

]]> Thu, 04 Jun 2026 14:46:36 +0800 Leah Rando-Poller Leah Rando-Poller 483 In this episode, Leah shares her unique proposition and how life experience combined with professional experience has helped her shaped the solution-based approach to helping families going through a tough stage of life. 

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