Raising a Resilient Generation Podcast

What does it take to balance the demands of leading a school while raising a family alone? In this inspiring episode of Raising a Resilient Generation , we speak with Headteacher Kiran Takhar about her journey of single parenting alongside her leadership role. Kiran shares honest insights into building resilience both at home and in school, navigating challenges, and fostering independence in chil...

In this episode, Chantel Brooks speaks with Matthew Popo , founder of Wethnk and youth engagement specialist, about the importance of listening to young people and building communities that support them. Matthew shares his journey working with young people across the UK and explains why many young people feel disengaged from school and society. Together they explore how schools, families and commu...

In this episode, Chantel Brooks speaks with Julian Hall , founder of Ultra Education CIC and a leading voice in entrepreneurship education. Julian shares his journey from becoming an entrepreneur at just 18 years old to building a national organisation helping young people develop entrepreneurial skills and confidence. The conversation explores how parents play a critical role in nurturing creativ...

In this episode, Chantel Brooks sits down with Janice Davis , COO of Eloquent Group, Parenting Coach and author, to discuss the realities of resilient parenting. Janice shares her personal journey as a single parent raising two children pursuing high-pressure passions in dance and football, while also building businesses and supporting others in their parenting journeys. This honest and encouragin...

In this powerful episode, Chantel Brooks speaks with Dr Gilroy Brown , a pioneering educator, leadership consultant and the first African Caribbean male primary school headteacher in Birmingham. With over 40 years of experience in education, Dr Brown shares the lessons he has learned from overcoming barriers, leading schools and mentoring future leaders. He introduces seven key steps to achieving...

In this episode, Chantel Brooks speaks with Dr Chanelle Dennis , Clinical Psychologist and co-founder of Melanin Moods CIC, about the importance of mental health and emotional resilience for young people. Dr Dennis shares practical strategies to help young people recognise emotional challenges, regulate their feelings and cope with pressures such as exams, expectations and social stress. The conve...

In this episode of Raising a Resilient Generation , Chantel Brooks speaks with Denise Myers , Founder of Evenfields and the Black Talent Awards, about resilience in career pathways and why young people must explore opportunities beyond traditional routes. Denise shares insights from over 20 years of experience championing diversity in employment and supporting young people into apprenticeships, wo...

Guest:  Renee Davis – Founder, Out the Box What happens when young people enter workplaces where they don’t see themselves represented? Renee Davis shares her lived experience and offers honest advice on  navigating challenging work environments, building confidence, and staying resilient . This episode is especially powerful for  young people preparing for employment , as well as parents and educ...

Guest:  Dr Gilroy Brown – First Black Headteacher in the West Midlands What does resilience look like when navigating systemic barriers in education? Dr Gilroy Brown shares his powerful journey — from a young Black man entering teaching to becoming the  first Black headteacher in the West Midlands . This episode explores  identity, perseverance, leadership, and overcoming obstacles , offering insp...

Guest:  Denise Myers – Evenfields & Black Talent Awards How can we encourage young people to aspire, explore, and stay resilient in their career journeys? Denise Myers challenges traditional thinking around success and shares how  exposure, encouragement, and belief  shape career confidence. This episode invites parents, educators, and mentors to rethink how we guide young people towards fulfi...

Guest:  Nicola Bailey – Director of SEND & Inclusion Description: Navigating SEND can feel overwhelming for families. In this episode, Nicola Bailey offers  clear, compassionate guidance  for parents who suspect their child may have additional needs but aren’t sure where to start. We discuss early signs, working collaboratively with schools, advocating effectively, and ensuring children receiv...

Guest:  Bishop Melvin Brooks – New Jerusalem Community Church How can we encourage young people to aspire, explore, and stay resilient in their career journeys? Denise Myers challenges traditional thinking around success and shares how  exposure, encouragement, and belief  shape career confidence. This episode invites parents, educators, and mentors to rethink how we guide young people towards ful...

Guest:  Antonio Henry – Founder, MADE Mentoring CIC Mentoring can change lives — when done well. Antonio Henry joins us to discuss how  intentional mentoring builds resilience, confidence, and self-belief in young people .He shares practical mentoring strategies, lessons for parents, and how trusted relationships can support young people through challenge, transition, and uncertainty. This episode...

Guest:  Sophia Haughton – Headteacher, Heartlands Academy (E‑ACT) How do schools genuinely engage parents — not just inform them? In this episode, we sit down with inner-city headteacher Sophia Haughton to explore  practical strategies for building strong parent–school partnerships . Sophia shares what has worked in her school community, how trust is built over time, and the impact parent engageme...