Parents' Guide to

A Slight Change of Plans

Podcast Mental Health & Wellness Pushkin Average run time: 30 minutes
A Slight Change of Plans written on a yellow Post-It.

Common Sense Media Review

Robert Yaniz Jr. By Robert Yaniz Jr. , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 13+

Inspiring tales of resilience; some heavier topics.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 13+?

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What's It About?

A SLIGHT CHANGE OF PLANS tells an inspiring story of resilience each episode. Episode subjects and guests span a wide range. From a Black jazz musician who took on the KKK, to a cancer researcher who finds himself diagnosed with the disease, to a mother's recounting the journey of her child coming out as transgender. Cognitive scientist Maya Shankar uses her expertise to guide thoughtful interviews with each guest, giving the show a heartwarming journalistic feel. Each episode is unique, diverse, and inclusive, offering a deeper insight into how perseverant we are as humans and how although life may not go as planned, we find our strength and happiness on the path we're given. The show purports to be about "who we are and who we become in the face of a big change," and its focus on real people and real issues reflects that mission statement.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

While it may be aimed at adults, A Slight Change of Plans presents powerfully detailed accounts of a variety of harrowing experiences that are sure to be inspiring for tweens and teens. Stories of courage, resilience, and perseverance will likely be relatable for teens and can help model how our struggles and obstacles can also become our strength and motivation.

Host Maya Shankar guides the guests through even the most difficult topics with compassion and empathy, allowing them to be vulnerable and modeling active listening. In doing so, she uncovers messages of hope, strength, and grace, sure to inspire all listeners.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how A Slight Change of Plans focuses on a diverse array of stories, with the common underlying theme of perseverance. How does hearing several very different accounts of resilience help to give a broader perspective of how we can find our own version of happiness?

  • A Slight Change of Plans follows people who have gone through big changes and emerged stronger for it. What's a big change you went through in your life, and how were you able to push through it? What lessons did you learn from that experience?

  • Many of the guests on A Slight Change of Plans discuss the importance of self-love and self-worth in combating loneliness. What are some things you can do to practice self-love and self-compassion?

  • Host Maya Shankar leads conversations and listens to her guests with compassion and empathy. Why are these important character strengths when practicing active listening? How can this help the person you're talking to feel comfortable being vulnerable and sharing their experiences?

Podcast Details

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