The Ultimate Challenge of Building Agency with Derek McCormack

In this episode, Derek McCormack joins host Patrick Beggs to share his insight into the ultimate challenge of building agency in selves and others, through Parenthood. Derek is director at the Raising Children Network and has a different take on parenting experts - that there are none. Emphasising that parenting is an evolving practice of guiding behaviour, providing emotional support, and managing daily care.

The conversation explores how societal shifts, like the attention economy and climate anxiety, have made the role more challenging, yet the fundamental principles of raising children remain unchanged.

Derek offers insight into how the Raising Children Network delivers research-backed, actionable guides to parents in a world where misinformation can spread rapidly. He shares personal reflections on raising his blended family and the delicate balance of care and independence as children grow. As well as how his parenting journey coincides with his professional journey with the Raising Children Network.

Looking forward, Derek paints a picture of a future where parenting support focuses more on children’s emotional well-being and expands to provide guidance for parents who are also caring for aging family members, reinforcing the importance of a community-centered approach to family life.