Top tips for parents and educators from Child Psychotherapist
"Don’t wait until everything is polished."
Today Ashley Costello, the creator of The Resilient Kid shares her story of parenting podcast.
► Tell us about you and your podcast
I’m Ashley Costello, a psychotherapist, Author, TEDx speaker, and founder of The Resilient Kid – a programme dedicated to helping children build emotional resilience. My background is in psychology, counselling, and hypnotherapy, and I work with kids, teens, and families on challenges like anxiety, anger, confidence, and navigating neurodiversity.
Our podcast – The Resilient Kid Podcast – is a heart-to-heart space for parents, teachers, therapists, and anyone raising or working with children. Each episode dives into real-life struggles, practical tools, and inspiring stories that help kids bounce back stronger. Whether it’s managing big emotions, understanding the brain, or navigating tricky friendships, we keep it grounded, warm, and full of hope.
Our listeners are parents who want more than just advice – they want real talk. They’re educators craving understanding, and professionals who care deeply about making a difference in young lives. It's a mix of laughter, learning, and the occasional “me too” moment that makes this podcast feel like part of their support village.
► Why & how did you start this podcast?
I started The Resilient Kid Podcast because I wanted to reach more people in a way that felt real, accessible, and personal. In my therapy room, I was hearing the same concerns over and over – parents feeling overwhelmed, kids struggling silently, and teachers feeling stuck. I knew these conversations needed to go beyond the therapy space. A podcast felt like the perfect way to do that.
I’ve always loved podcasts myself – especially ones that feel like you’re listening in on a conversation that’s just for you. The kind that leaves you feeling less alone, more hopeful, and armed with something useful. That’s the feeling I wanted to give our listeners.
We launched the podcast in June 2021 and I’ll be honest – the first episode took longer than I expected. From deciding on the format, getting the tech set up, to battling that “who am I to start a podcast?” voice – it probably took a good couple of months from idea to pressing record. But once it was out there, I knew we were doing the right thing.
My goal was never about big numbers – it was about connection. If one parent listened and felt seen, or one teacher took a new idea into their classroom, it was worth it.
► How'd you find the time and funding to do this podcast?
Finding the time for the podcast has been a bit of a juggle – especially with running The Resilient Kid, seeing therapy clients, delivering workshops, and being a mum. But the truth is, when something feels purposeful, you make space for it. I treat the podcast like I do my client work – it’s a non-negotiable commitment to the people I serve.
We aim to release an episode every week, though we’ve given ourselves permission to be flexible if life gets busy. Each episode takes a few hours from start to finish – planning, recording, editing, and getting it out there. I batch some of the work where I can, like outlining multiple episodes in one go or recording when the house is quiet!
As for funding – I’ve self-funded the podcast. Hosting, equipment, and occasional help with editing and graphics all come out of my own pocket or the business. It’s not a huge spend, but it adds up – I’d say roughly £30–£50 a month depending on what support I bring in. At the moment, it’s more a labour of love than a commercial venture, though it does support my wider mission and connects beautifully with the work I do.
I don’t have a huge team – just me and my VA Chantelle and a huge passion for giving parents, teachers, and therapists something real and useful to plug into.
► What do you gain from podcasting?
Podcasting has given me so much more than I expected. It’s created a sense of connection with people I might never meet in person – parents who message to say, “That episode was exactly what I needed,” or teachers who share it with their staffroom. It’s helped grow The Resilient Kid community and deepened the trust people have in the work we do.
At the moment, I don’t take sponsorship – not because I wouldn’t, but because my priority has been on creating value without pressure. That said, I’m open to working with aligned sponsors in the future – ones who genuinely support children’s mental health, education, or family life. I believe any partnership should feel like a natural extension of the podcast’s heart, not an interruption.
In terms of numbers, we’re growing steadily each month. I’d say we’re still in the early stages when it comes to big download figures, but the feedback and engagement from our listeners are incredibly strong. People don’t just listen – they take action, share it, and start conversations. That’s a huge win.
On a personal level, podcasting has sharpened my voice, strengthened my message, and stretched my creativity. It’s also helped me connect with other passionate professionals and parents, and opened up opportunities like speaking engagements and collaborative projects. It’s more than content – it’s a Village.
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► How does your podcasting process look like?
My podcasting process is a blend of planning, purpose, and a bit of organised chaos!
I record using a simple but solid setup – a USB microphone, my laptop, and recording software Descript. I host the podcast on Anchor/Spotify and YouTube, and my VA does most of the editing.
Guests are a real joy – I usually invite people I’ve connected with through my work as a therapist, speaker, or founder of The Resilient Kid. Some are parents or educators I deeply respect, others are professionals with incredible insights. Sometimes, guests come from listener suggestions or social media connections where I think, “Yes – that voice needs to be heard.”
Most interviews happen online, which makes it easier to connect with people from anywhere. While I love the idea of in-person recordings, Zoom lets me stay flexible and fit interviews into a busy schedule.
Each episode starts with a clear intention – what message or feeling do I want the listener to walk away with? I prepare a loose structure or questions, but I leave space for honest, flowing conversation.
► How do you market your show?
Most of our listeners find The Resilient Kid Podcast through word of mouth, social media, and being part of our wider Resilient Kid community. Instagram and Facebook are big drivers for us – I share clips, quotes, and reflections from each episode, which tend to get shared by parents, teachers, and therapists. It’s amazing how a single post can spark conversations and bring new listeners in.
We also promote episodes through our email newsletter, which goes out to families and professionals who are already engaged with our work. That’s been one of the most effective tools – because the audience is already connected to our message and values, they’re more likely to listen and share with others who would benefit.
In terms of where people listen, most come through Apple Podcasts and Spotify, with a smaller percentage tuning in via our website or links we share directly. I don’t have exact breakdowns yet, but I’m looking into using analytics tools to get a clearer picture going forward.
► What advice would you share with aspiring (new) podcasters?
My biggest piece of advice for new podcasters? Just start – even if it’s messy, imperfect, or recorded under a blanket in your wardrobe (been there!). Don’t wait until everything is polished. Your voice, your message, and your heart are more important than slick production in those early days.
One thing I learned quickly is that podcasting isn’t just about talking – it’s about listening. Listening to your audience, to what’s needed, and to what feels authentic to you. Don’t try to sound like everyone else. Let your style be yours – that’s what people will connect with.
Also, allow yourself to grow into it. My first few episodes were a bit clunky, but they were full of passion. Over time, I’ve found my rhythm, my voice, and what really resonates. It’s a journey, not a performance.
► Where can we learn more about you & your podcasts?
Website: www.theresilientkid.co.uk – Here you’ll find resources for parents, therapists, and schools, as well as access to our workshops and courses.
Podcast: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and most major platforms – just search The Resilient Kid Podcast.
Email: ashley@theresilientkid.co.uk – Always happy to connect, collaborate, or hear your feedback.
Instagram: @theresilientkid – Behind-the-scenes content, daily tips, and lots of encouragement.
Facebook: The Resilient Kid – A supportive space for parents, educators, and therapists.
Facebook Group: The Village
Resources & Extras: theresilientkid.membervault.co – Freebies, downloadable guides, and access to our latest materials.
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