Over‑Optimisation and the Pressure to Do Life Right

Over‑Optimisation and the Pressure to Do Life Right

Optimisation promises better wellbeing, but at what cost? In this episode of Thrive with St. John's, we explore how the pressure to constantly improve can subtly increase stress for teenagers, even when it’s wrapped in “healthy” habits. We unpack the risks of over‑optimisation, from comparison and rigidity to burnout and self‑doubt, and why more isn’t always better. You’ll hear practical ways parents can help teens critically engage with wellbeing content online, rather than feeling ruled by it. We also discuss how to create boundaries, structure, and routines that offer support without stretching young people further, leaving room for flexibility, rest, and enoughness. 📍 Learn more about us Thrive is brought to you by leading independent school St. John's School [https://www.stjohnsleatherhead.co.uk/] in Surrey, UK, for pupils aged 11 to 18. 📧 Contact us: thrive@stjohns.surrey.sch.uk

Raising Kids in the Age of AI: What Every Parent Needs to Know with Nicki Watts | The Thrive Podcast

Is AI a tool, a threat, or something in between? The Thrive Podcast is back, and this episode might just change how you think about the technology shaping young people’s lives. Vanessa Sokal (Mental Health Lead) and Dr. Liz Pritchett (Assistant Head, Pastoral Care and EDI) sit down with Nicki Watts, founder of AI Youth, to explore the world of AI and what it really means for young people today. From unlocking creativity and new ways of learning to navigating hidden safeguarding risks, this conversation is a great starting point for parents. Learn More about Nicki: AI Youth [https://aiyouth.co.uk/] Nicki Watts | LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicki-watts/] Media Mentioned: Everyday Sexism by Laura Bates The Safe AI For Children Alliance [https://www.safeaiforchildren.org/] Me, Myself & AI: Chatbot research | Internet Matters [https://www.internetmatters.org/hub/research/me-myself-and-ai-chatbot-research/] 📍 Learn more about us Thrive is brought to you by a leading independent school in Surrey, UK, for pupils aged 11 to 18. 📧 Contact us: thrive@stjohns.surrey.sch.uk

Ambition Rewritten: 5 Reasons Gen Z is Redefining Success

Welcome to a fresh episode of the Thrive Podcast from St John’s School! Join Vanessa Sokal (Mental Health Lead) as she explores why ambition looks and feels different for Gen Z and why that matters for parents. Understand how Gen-Z is redefining what it means to dream big. Vanessa journeys through the history of ambition, uncovers what matters most to Gen-Z, and reveals practical ways parents can inspire and nurture ambition that feels both meaningful and safe. Tune in for thought-provoking stories, actionable tips, and a new perspective on helping the next generation thrive! For reference: Gen Alpha: 2013 - 2024 (2 - 13) Gen Z: 1997 – 2012 (14 – 29) Millennials: 1981 – 1996 (30 – 45) Gen X: 1965 – 1980 (46 – 61) Boomers II: 1955 – 1964 (62 – 71) Boomers I: 1946 – 1954 (72 – 80) Media Mentioned: Psychological Safety Episode ⁠Here!⁠ [https://open.spotify.com/episode/1o4uzXEYekk2OeIzTxAVGH?si=f3gF4U7FQhKuUtd6B9NFuQ] 📍 Learn more about us Thrive is brought to you by a leading independent school in Surrey, UK, for pupils aged 11 to 18. 📧 Contact us: thrive@stjohns.surrey.sch.uk Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Home | St John's School Leatherhead⁠⁠⁠ [https://www.stjohnsleatherhead.co.uk/]

Raising Teens in Psychologically Safe Environments with Hannah Sherbersky

Welcome to a new episode of the Thrive Podcast from St John’s School! Join Vanessa Sokal (Mental Health Lead) and Dr. Liz Pritchett (Assistant Head, Pastoral Care & EDI) as they dive into the crucial topic of psychological safety with expert guest Hannah Sherbersky. Hannah is a family and systemic psychotherapist, educator, and passionate advocate for relational approaches to mental health and wellbeing. She currently serves as Director of the Systemic Portfolio and Deputy Director of Postgraduate Taught Programmes at the University of Exeter. Together, they blend psychological theory with real-world experience, offering parents and carers practical insights into what psychological safety looks like in family life, why it matters, and how to build it at home. Tune in for actionable advice and inspiring perspectives you can use right away! 🔗 Find Hannah Sherbersky: * Website: https://hannahsherbersky.co.uk/ [https://hannahsherbersky.co.uk/] 📍 Learn more about usT hrive is brought to you by a leading independent school in Surrey, UK, for pupils aged 11 to 18. 📧 Contact us: thrive@stjohns.surrey.sch.uk Website: ⁠⁠Home | St John's School Leatherhead⁠⁠ [https://www.stjohnsleatherhead.co.uk/]

7 Science-Backed Ways to Boost Teen Energy This Winter

Join Vanessa Sokal, Mental Health Lead at St. John’s School, as she dives into why winter can zap teens’ energy and motivation—and what really works to turn things around. With insights from psychology and research, Vanessa shares creative, actionable tools for parents to help teens stay engaged and energised, even on the gloomiest days. 📍 Learn more about us Thrive is brought to you by a leading independent school in Surrey, UK, for pupils aged 11 to 18. 📧 Contact us: thrive@stjohns.surrey.sch.uk Website: ⁠ [https://www.stjohnsleatherhead.co.uk/]Home | St John's School Leatherhead [https://www.stjohnsleatherhead.co.uk/]