Explore every episode of the podcast Banter: Real Talk. Real Life.
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ep.28 - Midlife, Marriage & Why All-Inclusive Holidays Hit Different at 51 | 11 May 2026 | 00:39:35 | |
Welcome back to Banter: Real Talk, Real Life, your weekly catch-up on midlife, relationships, motherhood, travel, health and all the chaos in between. This week Anu is back from Sicily… and reflecting on everything from all-inclusive holidays in your 50s to long-term marriage, contentment, menopause, family dynamics and the reality of grown-up children returning home. She shares: • why Palermo completely stole her heart • the truth about travelling as a couple in midlife • why “romance” looks different after 28 years of marriage • the hilarious reality of all-inclusive holidays at 51 • a very unexpected voice note involving menopause and a brand-new dildo • her emotional reflections after her son’s 19th birthday • the reality of parenting older teens and navigating their future • why travel still feels like freedom And perhaps most importantly, why sometimes happiness isn’t the goal anymore… contentment is. Because midlife isn’t always about big dramatic moments. Sometimes it’s just walking side by side through unfamiliar streets, sharing an alcohol-free beer, and feeling quietly happy. This Week’s Recommendations Books 📚 • The Favorites by Lane Fargo • Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid TV 📺 • Amandaland Recipe of the Week 🍜 Comforting Miso Soup Simple, nourishing, and perfect alongside last week’s sushi tray recipe. Ingredients • White miso paste • Dashi stock sachets • Silken tofu • Spring onions • Wakame seaweed • Soy sauce (optional) • Sesame oil (optional) Method 1. Prepare the dashi stock according to packet instructions. 2. Gently heat and add the silken tofu. 3. Stir in the miso paste until dissolved. 4. Add wakame seaweed and spring onions. 5. Finish with soy sauce or sesame oil if desired. 6. Serve warm. If you’ve ever felt exhausted by midlife, questioned what connection really looks like in a long marriage or simply needed reminding that contentment counts too, this episode is for you. Episode 28 is out now 🎧 | |||
| Ep.27 - Midlife Realities: Health, Anxiety & When Life Doesn't Go To Plan | 04 May 2026 | 00:26:42 | |
Welcome back to Banter: Real Talk, Real Life, your weekly catch-up on everything midlife, from relationships and motherhood to health, mindset and the realities we don’t always talk about. This week’s episode is a real one. Anu shares what it’s been like feeling under the weather and one unexpected (and slightly mortifying) midlife moment that so many women will quietly relate to. From there, it turns into a much bigger conversation about health, strength and how our priorities start to shift as we get older; from taking risks to protecting ourselves, physically and mentally. She also talks about: Because real life isn’t linear and sometimes it feels like things fall apart just as they start to come together. Banter Recommendations: • Book: The Bright Years by Sarah Damoff Recipe of the Week: Easy Sushi Tray Bake 🍣 Ingredients • 500g sushi rice To serve: Method
If you’ve ever felt like your body is changing, your mindset is shifting, or life just isn’t quite going to plan, this episode will feel like a conversation with a friend. Because sometimes it's not about having all the answers... it's about getting through it together! | |||
| Ep.26 - Why Women Need Women: Marriage, Divorce & Starting Again | 27 Apr 2026 | 00:42:33 | |
Welcome back to Banter: Real Talk, Real Life, your weekly catch up on midlife, relationships, motherhood and everything in between. This week, Anu is joined by Honor Marks for a really honest and refreshing conversation about marriage, divorce, female friendships and why women need time away for themselves. From leaving London for the south of France to building a completely new chapter, Honor shares how her “me-treats” and community for women are helping women rebuild confidence, find connection and start again. They talk about: If you’ve ever felt stuck, disconnected or like you’re figuring things out as you go, this episode will feel like a conversation with friends! Because sometimes the best chapter hasn’t happened yet. Honor's Recommendations: • TV: The Office (US Version) Corsican Beef Stew - bourguignon beef cooked over two days in tomato passata, white wine, cinnamon and bay leaves. Served with pasta. One Pot Chicken cooked with potatoes, white wine, cream and tarragon. Follow, rate, review, and share with a friend who’d love some real talk, real life. | |||
| Ep. 25 - Midlife, Motherhood, Marriage & Mushroom Tart | 20 Apr 2026 | 00:30:25 | |
Welcome back to Season 3 of Banter: Real Talk, Real Life - your weekly midlife catch-up on real life, relationships, motherhood and everything in between. This week, Anu shares reflections from her trip to Jaipur, India with her daughter, 30 years since meeting her husband in Barcelona and the emotional reality of parenting older children… including what happens when your teenage son at uni blocks you! Banter Recommendations: This week a focus on shows and movies suitable for pre-teens and teens due to being away with her daughter on holiday. TV: Scarpetta, starring Nicole Kidman on Prime Video Finding Her Edge, Netflix Amadeus, with Will Sharpe & Paul Bettaney on Sky and NOW Film: People We Meet on Vacation - an easy, fun view! Book: Heart the Lover by Lily King Banter Bites: Omo (vegetarian restaurant where all produce has been farm grown in Gurgaon, India) CAPHE (a Vietnamese restaurant owned by husband and wife in Gurgaon, India) Recipe of the Week: Easy Mushroom Tart A simple, delicious midweek recipe that feels a little bit special. Ingredients • Ready-made puff pastry • Mushrooms • Garlic • 1 onion • Salt + black pepper • Boursin cheese • Parmesan • Emmental cheese (or cheese of choice) • Truffle oil • 1 egg (for egg wash) Method 1. Fry garlic and onion. 2. Add the mushrooms, salt and pepper. 3. Lay out the ready-made puff pastry and lightly score the edges. 4. Brush the edges with egg wash. 5. Spread a generous layer of Boursin cheese over the pastry. 6. Once the mushrooms have cooled, add on top. 7. Sprinkle over Parmesan and a little extra Emmental (or your cheese of choice). 8. Bake at 180°C for around 20 minutes until golden. 9. Finish with a drizzle of truffle oil and serve with salad. If you’re navigating midlife, family life, relationship and trying to keep up with it all, this one will feel familiar. Please follow, rate, review and share with a friend who would love some real talk, real life. | |||
| Ep.24 - Instagram Buys, Life Admin & a Bit of Decorating | 23 Mar 2026 | 00:37:07 | |
This week on Banter: Real Talk, Real Life, Anu is back with the final episode of Season 2. It’s a mix of everyday life, honest reflections and a few slightly questionable decisions - from repainting the bedroom while her husband was away, to wondering why we all keep buying things on Instagram that never quite live up to expectations. She also shares a cultural reflection after attending a recent book launch and why sometimes things just don’t land in the way you expect them to. Alongside the lighter moments, the episode moves into a more practical conversation around what actually happens when someone dies - something many people are beginning to navigate at this stage of life. Anu talks through the basics: • Registering the death • Arranging the funeral • Locating the will • Applying for probate And why having even a simple understanding of the process can make a difficult time feel more manageable. If you’d like to get in touch regarding this, you can contact Anu at: 📩 anuja.wagner@mullenderlaw.com As always, the episode finishes with this week’s recommendations... 📺 Banter Recommendations TV • Vladimir (Netflix) • Last One Laughing UK (Prime Video) Film • Project Hail Mary starring Ryan Gosling 🍽️ Banter Bites Shiuli – Twickenham A lovely local Indian restaurant with generous portions and great quality food. Set menu from around £18–£22 for two or three courses. Perfect for sharing - a group of four ordered across the menu and shared everything. 📚 Book Recommendation All Fours by Miranda July A bold and unusual novel exploring reinvention, feeling stuck and choosing a different path. 🌮 Recipe of the Week The Double Wrap Chilli Melt Layer a wrap with guacamole, salsa, chilli, grated cheese and crushed tortilla chips. Top with a soft taco, fold into a parcel and fry until golden and crispy. Serve with extra guacamole and salsa. A mix of humour, honesty and real life conversations to close out Season 2. If you enjoy the podcast, please follow, rate and share with someone who might like it. For more, find Anu on Instagram @banter.pod | |||
| Ep. 23 - Mother’s Day, Menopause Chats & Why Sleep Might Be the Answer | 16 Mar 2026 | 00:34:53 | |
This week on Banter: Real Talk, Real Life, Anu records the episode on Mother’s Day and reflects on how her relationship with the day has changed over the years. When the children were younger, Mother’s Day often felt like a slightly forced celebration while still doing everything for everyone else. Now, with older children, it feels different - less about obligation and more about appreciation. Sometimes all we really need is a simple “thank you” or “you’re doing a good job.” Anu also talks about feeling a little off recently - those moments where motivation comes and goes, confidence dips and everything feels harder than it should. After listening to Mel Robbins and trying to connect the dots, she begins to wonder whether the real issue might be something far simpler: sleep. The episode also explores the joy of reconnecting with old friends and how, within minutes, the conversation inevitably turns to menopause - sleep struggles, energy shifts and mood changes. It’s a reminder that so many women are navigating the same changes at the same time, often with humour and honesty. As always, the episode finishes with this week’s Banter recommendations. 📺 TV Recommendations Love Story A series exploring the relationship between John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette and the intense media attention surrounding their lives. The show has sparked controversy with members of the Kennedy family questioning how certain figures have been portrayed. DTF St Louis A dark comedy crime series starring Jason Bateman and David Harbour. Funny, outrageous and highly entertaining with new episodes released weekly. 🍽️Banter Bites Tosa – Hammersmith A small Japanese gem serving beautifully prepared dishes in an intimate setting. Julie’s – Notting Hill A reminder about Julie’s “First Table” offer for early diners. Recipe of the Week Baked Rice with Spinach (optional, served with grilled chicken, kale and peppers) A comforting and simple dish perfect for midweek meals. Full recipe will be out Monday 16th March, this evening right here! This episode is a gentle reflection on motherhood, midlife changes and the small things - like sleep, friendship and appreciation - that can make a big difference. If you enjoy Banter: Real Talk, Real Life, please follow the show and leave a rating or review. It really helps more people discover the podcast. You can also find more recommendations, clips and recipes on Instagram @banter.pod | |||
| Ep.22 - Bras, Body Confidence & Women's Health with Jackie Upton | 09 Mar 2026 | 00:55:49 | |
This week on Banter: Real Talk, Real Life, Anu sits down with Jackie Upton, founder of Sheen Uncovered Lingerie Boutique and a passionate advocate for women’s health and body confidence. For more than 20 years Jackie has been helping women feel comfortable in their own bodies through expert bra fitting and honest conversations about breast health. Through her work she has supported women navigating pregnancy, post-surgery recovery, menopause and the everyday realities of changing bodies. In this thoughtful and refreshingly practical conversation, Jackie shares why the right fit is about so much more than lingerie. It is about confidence, education and understanding what actually works for your body. They talk about the importance of having open conversations in changing rooms, why so much misinformation still exists around bra fitting and breast health and how education and language around our bodies should start much earlier. Jackie also shares the challenges of running an independent retail business today, the importance of knowledgeable staff and why supporting local shops matters more than ever. Anu also introduced a Quick Fire Round where she asked Jackie to share her thoughts on brands such as Skims and Wonderbra! As always Anu finishes with a few Banter recommendations. This week, Jackie shared hers… 📚Book Recommendation - The Queen of Bloody Everything A beautifully written novel exploring the complex relationship between mothers and daughters, nostalgia and the different chapters of life. 🎬 Film Recommendations: Classic films such as Billy Elliot The Holiday 📺 TV Recommendations: Ted Lasso Bridgerton Emily in Paris Offspring - a fabulous Australian soap on Netflix 🍴Favourite Meal A comforting roast - perfect for bringing family and friends together. Think good old fashioned sides, red cabbage, celeriac and homemade gravy. ⸻ If you enjoy the podcast please follow the show and leave a rating or review. It really helps more people discover Banter. For more from this episode including behind the scenes clips, recipes and recommendations follow along on Instagram @banter.pod | |||
| Ep.21 - Self Doubt, Confidence & Rearranging Your Life Around What Actually Feels Good | 02 Mar 2026 | 00:30:30 | |
This week on Banter, Anu reflects on something deceptively simple but surprisingly powerful: self doubt. After a thoughtful dog walk and a conscious decision to rearrange her day around good weather and daylight, she began questioning the way we think about confidence. What if confidence isn’t a personality trait at all but a nervous system state? In this episode, she explores: • Why self doubt often shows up just before growth • The idea that “self doubt is fear in disguise” • Why fear tends to appear right before expansion • Rearranging your life around what regulates and restores you • Asking better questions when you feel stuck Instead of asking “Am I good enough?” Perhaps we should be asking: Have I seen daylight today? Have I moved my body? Is my nervous system calm? Sometimes the shift is physiological before it is psychological. As always, the episode ends with Banter Recommendations: 📺 TV Recommendations • Waiting for the Out (BBC iPlayer) - thoughtful and intelligent, following a philosophy teacher who teaches inmates whilst navigating OCD and personal challenges • The Walsh Sisters (BBC iPlayer) - adapted from Marian Keyes' book - sharp, funny and messy family dynamics with strong emotional themes • Bridgerton (Netflix) - 2nd part of the latest series, Episode 1 - pure escapism, joyful and indulgent 🍽️ Restaurant Recommendation • Ruth’s, Lower Richmond Road, Putney - a new neighbourhood-style bistro with a lovely menu, delicious cocktails and a standout lemon tart! The staff are incredibly friendly and it’s the kind of place you want to return to. 🍣 Listener Recommendation • Tomoe, Upper Richmond Road - a Japanese sushi gem kindly recommended by one of Banter’s lovely listeners. An absolute delight and very reasonably priced. 📚 Book Recommendation • The Names by Florence Knapp - a compelling sliding doors style novel exploring three different life trajectories shaped by what a child is named. Intriguing, reflective and deeply engaging. 🥗 Recipe of the Week Chicken Salad with Bagel Croutons Dressing is adapted and inspired by Baked by Melissa. Bagel Croutons • 1 seeded bagel, chopped into chunky squares • Olive oil • Maldon salt Mix together. Pop in the oven and roast until golden and crisp. For the Chicken • Ready-made chicken breast, sliced lengthways • Drizzle of olive oil • Paprika • Salt • Garlic powder • Dried parsley Mix together and pop in the already hot oven with the croutons. Salad Base • Chopped iceberg lettuce • Chopped red cabbage • Grated carrot • Avocado (or whatever you have in the fridge) Dressing (Inspired by Baked by Melissa) • 3–4 tbsp olive oil • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar • Juice of ½ lemon • 1 generous tbsp miso paste • 1 tbsp nutritional yeast • 1 tbsp honey • ½ tsp dried oregano • 1 large garlic clove, grated • Salt and pepper Shake really well. Toss everything together. Dress generously. Quick. Healthy. Really delicious. Perfect for lunch. If this episode resonated, follow the podcast so you never miss us on a Monday. Ratings and reviews genuinely help more people discover Banter and keep these conversations going. For more behind the scenes, the full recipe and weekly recommendations, head over to Instagram @banter.pod where Anu shares everything in real time. | |||
| Ep.20 - Middle Kids, Midlife Friendships & Learning to Slow Down | 23 Feb 2026 | 00:43:21 | |
In this week’s episode of Banter: Real Talk, Real Life, Anu reflects on something that felt unexpectedly luxurious - a quiet week off. With her daughter and husband away on a ski trip, Anu spends half term at home with just one child, discovering the beauty of slower days, one-to-one time and letting go of the pressure to do everything herself. From home improvements and outsourcing small jobs (hello TaskRabbit), to wandering London with her middle child - the quieter one. This episode is all about presence over perfection, and how midlife friendships are evolving beyond dinner and drinks into shared experiences and hobbies! In this episode: • Taking a proper week off and finding mental clarity • Delegating, home refreshes & releasing control • One-to-one time with your middle child (and why it matters) • Midlife friendships - craving more connection, less routine • Why presence beats grand gestures TV Recommendations: • Heated Rivalry: binge-worthy drama • Tehran: anxiously awaiting the next season! Banter Bites: • Rai - intimate dining, thoughtful menu, perfect for real conversations • Petersham Nurseries - dreamy cream teas and a beautiful London escape Book Recommendation: • Hymn to Life by Gisèle Pelicot - a powerful, dignified memoir exploring justice, survival and rebuilding identity after unimaginable betrayal 🍽️ Recipe of the Week Lime & Coriander Chicken with Smashed Sweet Potatoes, Black Beans & Homemade Slaw A comforting, flavour-packed meal that feels special but is easy enough for a weeknight. Chicken Marinade 2 tbsp olive oil Juice + zest of 1 lime 2 tbsp honey Paprika Cumin Salt & pepper Garlic powder 4 cloves garlic, crushed Mix everything together, add chicken thighs, and marinate for 15–20 minutes. Grill or roast until cooked through. Finish with fresh lime juice, lots of chopped coriander and pickled red onions. Roasted Sweet Potatoes & Black Bean Topping Sweet potatoes, cut lengthways Olive oil Roast until soft, then squash them down slightly and return to the oven to crisp. For the topping: Black beans (tinned or Merchant Gourmet pouch) Red onion, finely chopped Red pepper, finely chopped 1 clove garlic Paprika Salt & pepper Chilli flakes Sauté onion, pepper and garlic, add beans, season and warm through. Spoon over the sweet potatoes, top with grated cheese and fresh jalapeños. (These are delicious on their own with a simple salad too.) Homemade Slaw Cabbage, finely sliced Grated carrot Fresh parsley Dressing: Olive oil White wine vinegar 1 clove garlic 2 tsp honey Salt & pepper Mix dressing and pour over veg just before serving. A gentle reminder that it’s okay to slow down, ask for help and make space for what really matters. If this episode resonated - please follow, rate and share Banter: Real Talk, Real Life. It truly helps the podcast grow 🤍 | |||
| Ep.19 - Women’s Stories, Half-Term Chaos & A Cookery Class Reset | 16 Feb 2026 | 00:40:56 | |
February energy hits differently… and in this episode of Banter: Real Talk, Real Life, Anu reflects on lingering thoughts from her powerful interview with Laura Behnke, half-term chaos, expiring birthday vouchers and finding meaning in everyday moments. Plus her latest book, TV and music picks, and a comforting Chicken Nasi Goreng to finish. Real life. Real conversations. And just enough chaos to keep it interesting. ✨ Reflections After Laura Behnke Anu opens up about why their conversation stayed with her; from misogyny in the workplace and fertility journeys, to cancer survival and the quiet ways women learn not to speak up. A raw, honest look at shared female experiences, invisible grief and why these stories matter. 🌧️ February Energy, Half-Term & Voucher Panic Grey weather, half-term logistics and the classic scramble to use nearly expired birthday vouchers (including a Valentine’s booking fail). Anu shares why experiences beat “stuff,” plus highlights from a recent cookery class that boosted her confidence in the kitchen. Banter Recommendations 📚Book: The Wedding People - intelligent, funny and quietly uplifting 📺 TV: Bridgerton (latest season) for escapist indulgence Under Salt Marsh for something darker and moodier 🎶 Music: DJO (Joe Keery) - varied, soulful tracks worth a Spotify deep dive 🍳 Recipe of the Week: Chicken Nasi Goreng (Anu’s Adapted Version) Inspired by her cookery class and turned into a hearty, midweek family meal. Ingredients: • Cooked jasmine rice (ideally day-old) • Chicken breast or thighs, diced • Garlic, ginger, red chilli • Onion + spring onions • Mixed veg (carrots, peppers, peas, greens) • Dark soy sauce • Sweet soy (kecap manis if you have it) • Dash of fish sauce • Sesame oil + neutral oil • Lime wedge • Optional: fried egg + crispy shallots Method: 1. Lightly marinate chicken in soy + sesame oil, then fry until golden. Set aside. 2. In the same pan, stir-fry garlic, ginger, chilli and onion. 3. Add vegetables and cook until just tender. 4. Add rice, breaking up any clumps. 5. Stir in dark soy, sweet soy and fish sauce. Return chicken to the pan. 6. Finish with spring onions, a squeeze of lime and fresh herbs. Optional topping: fried egg + crispy shallots. Flexible, comforting and perfect for busy weeks. 💛 A reminder that every woman has a story and real life doesn’t come in neat chapters. If this episode resonated, please follow the podcast, leave a rating or review and share it with someone who might enjoy a little real-life banter. Thank you so much for listening. | |||
| Ep. 18 - From Super Bowls to Survival & Finding Your New Normal with Laura Behnke | 09 Feb 2026 | 01:23:45 | |
In this deeply honest episode of Banter: Real Talk, Real Life, Anu sits down with Laura Behnke - a US based former sports anchor, mum, wife, cancer survivor and all round incredible human. Laura shares her journey from covering Super Bowls, NBA Finals, and the American Women’s World Cup celebratory parade in New York City, to navigating the disadvantages of being a woman in a male-dominated industry. She opens up about finding love at 35, expecting her happily ever after… then facing grief, an IVF journey and ultimately stage three cancer. With courage and candour, Laura talks about adapting to a “new normal,” the importance of listening to your body and why breaking the taboo of talking about poop with your doctor could literally save your life. Together, Anu and Laura explore surrender, resilience and why real stories matter more than curated social media lives. It’s a powerful conversation about survival, identity and learning to work with your body, not against it - offering hope to anyone facing illness, recovery or major life change. In true Banter style, Laura also shares some of her favourite comfort picks: 📚 Book: The History of Love by Nicole Krauss - a beautiful story about all kinds of love
If this episode resonates, please follow, rate and share Banter: Real Talk, Real Life with someone who might need it 🤍 | |||
| Ep. 17 - Abu Dhabi, Adult Friendships & When Life Collides | 03 Feb 2026 | 00:27:02 | |
February is here and in this episode of Banter: Real Talk, Real Life, Anu reflects on letting go of January pressure and discovering that progress doesn’t always come from pushing harder. A family trip to Abu Dhabi brings rest, beautiful food and time with close friends but real life arrives too. Just after landing, Anu receives news that her son has been taken to hospital. From the shock of being far away, to a long day waiting for updates, to the relief when he’s able to go home, this episode gently explores how joy and worry often exist side by side. Anu talks about slowly allowing herself to enjoy the moment again, finding grounding through creativity, good food and the comfort of adult friendships, the kind that don’t need constant maintenance but show up when it matters. In this episode: Abu Dhabi: travel, food, creativity & staying present When life collides: holding joy and worry at the same time Adult friendships: calm, supportive & grounding Letting go of January pressure: progress without force Recommendations: • Book: The Correspondent by Virginia Evans • TV: Steal, starring Sophie Turner 🍽️ Recipe of the Week Caper Butter Sea Bass with Zesty Parmesan Macaroni & Cavolo Nero A simple but special dinner; fresh, comforting and easy. Ingredients (serves 4): • 4 sea bass fillets • Plain flour, for dusting • Butter • Capers • Macaroni • Lemon zest • Parmesan cheese • Fresh dill • Cavolo nero Method: Lightly dust the sea bass in flour and pan-fry skin-side down in butter until crisp. Remove from the pan, then add more butter and capers. Return the fish, season, and baste for another minute. Cook the macaroni, then finish with butter, lemon zest, fresh dill and Parmesan. Steam the cavolo nero and serve alongside. | |||
| Ep. 16 - Real Life, Real Habits & Small Wins | 26 Jan 2026 | 00:33:39 | |
Life feels noisy right now - advice everywhere, habits to fix, routines to perfect. In this episode of Banter: Real Talk, Real Life, Anu slows things down and shares what she’s actually taking from it all: small changes, honest updates and letting go of pressure. She checks in on life lately, shares a realistic update on decluttering (momentum over motivation, progress over perfection), reflects on how the body holds stress after a visit to the osteopath and gives a candid, non-polished update on quitting smoking. As always, there are plenty of Banter recommendations: Banter Bites: Holy Carrot, Notting Hill TV Recommendations: Heated Rivalry and Agatha Christie: Seven Dials Book Recommendation: Until August — first impressions 🍽️ Banter Recipe of the Week: Asian Sticky Chicken with Sesame Broccoli & Smashed Cucumber Salad Fresh, comforting, and perfect for busy weeks. Sticky Chicken Marinade • ¼ cup soy sauce • 3 tbsp honey • 2 tbsp brown sugar • 2 tbsp rice vinegar • 1½ tbsp ketchup • 1 tbsp sesame oil • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated • 3 garlic cloves, minced • 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional) • ½–1 tsp chilli flakes or sriracha (optional) Marinate chicken (thighs work best) for 30 minutes–12 hours. Cook hot and glaze at the end. Sesame Garlic Broccoli • 1 large head broccoli, florets • 1 tbsp neutral oil • 1–2 tsp toasted sesame oil • 2 garlic cloves, sliced • 1–2 tsp soy sauce Sauté garlic briefly, add broccoli, splash of water, steam, then finish with sesame oil. Smashed Cucumber Salad • 2 large cucumbers • 1 tsp salt • 1½ tbsp rice vinegar • 1 tbsp light soy sauce • 1–2 tsp sugar or honey • 1 tsp sesame oil • 1 small garlic clove, grated • Chilli crisp or flakes (optional) Salt cucumbers 10 minutes, drain, toss with dressing, rest briefly before serving. A reminder that small wins count in habits, health and headspace. If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate and review the podcast. And share it with someone who might need a little real-life encouragement 🤍 | |||
| Ep.15 - Life Admin We Avoid, Wills That Matter & Comfort Food That Delivers | 19 Jan 2026 | 00:42:18 | |
In this episode of Banter: Real Talk, Real Life, Anu turns her attention to the kind of life admin most of us avoid and explains why putting it off can create far more stress than dealing with it calmly and early. A Gentle January Reset January begins slowly, with Anu embracing short bursts of decluttering to create space and clarity. From clearing out clothes and letting go of chipped plates to finally paying off a lingering credit card, this isn’t about a full reset, just easing pressure and doing what feels manageable. No big goals yet. Just breathing room. Life Admin (The Important Stuff We Keep Avoiding) Drawing on her day job as a wills & probate private client lawyer, Anu dives into why wills, probate and powers of attorney are so important and why they so often stay at the bottom of our to do lists. She breaks it down in a clear, reassuring way:
This is practical, real-life advice designed to inform, not overwhelm and a reminder that you’re not behind! If you have further questions , please get in touch! You can find out more or message Anu on the socials: Instagram, TikTok or via email: Anuja.wagner@mullenderlaw.com Banter Recommendations Banter Bites: 🍽 The Tamil Prince, Islington - a standout South Indian restaurant set in a pub. Unexpected, delicious and full of flavour. Book (Audiobook): 📖 Only Say Good Things by Crystal Hefner - a fascinating and revealing listen from Hugh Hefner’s last wife, offering a perspective few have heard. TV: 📺 New Year Days - a Spanish series told across ten New Year’s Eves over a decade. Beautifully acted, deeply human and completely absorbing. Film: 🎬 One Battle After Another - starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Teyana Taylor and Benicio del Toro. A bold action thriller with dark humour and sharp political commentary on modern polarisation. Recipe of the Week: Low-Effort Comfort Food Anu shares a simple, satisfying dinner that delivers every time. Ingredients:
Garlic Dressing:
Side: Sweet potato wedges roasted with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, dried herbs, salt & pepper. Finished with sweet & spicy jalapeño relish (Waitrose) and Anu’s pickled onions. This episode is about tackling the things that quietly weigh on us gently, clearly and without pressure. If you’re enjoying Banter, please rate, review, follow or comment - it really helps the podcast grow. Thank you so much for listening 💛 For all enquiries, please email emily@banterpod.com | |||
| Ep. 14 - The Non-Ski Ski Trip, January Overwhelm & Finding Calm Again | 12 Jan 2026 | 00:32:00 | |
Recorded on a cold, bleak January morning, this week’s episode of Banter: Real Talk, Real Life is all about slowing down, resetting after Christmas chaos and easing gently into the new year. The Non-Ski Ski Trip Anu shares highlights from a 4 night family break in Mayrhofen, Austria as a calm reset before returning to work. After a skiing accident a few years ago, she made the decision to stop skiing and fully embrace a slower pace. With teens sleeping in, her husband and daughter on the slopes, and amazing food at their hotel each night, the trip became the perfect January retreat. Type 1 Diabetes & Problem-Solving on the Slopes Anu opens up about the irony of her son, the keenest skier, living with Type 1 diabetes and the challenges cold climates bring. After a stressful first day, she turned to ChatGPT for practical advice on energy levels, timing food and managing glucose levels, sharing how small changes helped him enjoy the rest of the trip. January Overwhelm & When to Pause Back home, Anu reflects on January overwhelm - cluttered spaces, mental fog and the pressure to set goals before feeling ready. Instead of forcing productivity, she chose a gentler approach: 20 minute decluttering bursts, tea breaks, reading and waiting until the right headspace arrived. Banter Recommendations Book of the Week Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid A surprisingly warm, comforting read - perfect for easing into January. TV Recommendations Runaway (Netflix) - A Harlan Coben adaptation watched with her daughter. Not groundbreaking but highly watchable with classic cliffhanger endings. The Night Manager (BBC iPlayer) - Gripping and brilliantly cast. Tom Hiddleston shines alongside Indira Varma in this John le Carré adaptation. Task starring Mark Ruffalo - Mixed reviews but entertaining and hard not to enjoy with Ruffalo on screen. Looking Ahead A little winter escapism on the horizon — Bridgerton, Shrinking, and a conscious effort to get back to the cinema this year. Banter Bites Le Swine, East Sheen Anu’s weekly favourite for incredible fresh produce, outstanding bacon butties, homemade sauces (chipotle, mushroom ketchup-style), in-house pickles, delicious burgers, wonderful staff and fun evening events with cocktails and music. Recipe of the Week — Anu’s Pork Bánh Mì A fresh Vietnamese style sandwich that’s easy to adapt! Ingredients For the pork (or alternative): • Pork (or chicken, tofu, prawns or mushrooms) • 2 tbsp soy sauce • 2 tbsp fish sauce • 1 tbsp brown sugar • Plenty of garlic, crushed or grated • Fresh ginger, grated (optional) • Optional oyster sauce (Anu keeps it simple) Quick pickles: • Red onion or radish, thinly sliced • White wine vinegar or rice vinegar • Hot water • Sugar, to taste Fresh filling: • Grated carrots • Cucumber sticks • Fresh coriander • Fresh jalapeños (optional) Sauce: • Mayonnaise • Sriracha To serve: • Baguette • Prawn crackers or sweet potato fries (optional) Method 1. Mix soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, garlic and ginger. Add the pork (or alternative) and marinate for at least 30 minutes. 2. Place sliced onion or radish in a jar, cover with vinegar, add a splash of hot water and a pinch of sugar. Shake and set aside. 3. Fry the marinated meat until cooked and caramelised. Slice finely at an angle. 4. Prep the veg: grate carrots, cut cucumber, chop coriander and slice jalapeños. 5. Mix mayonnaise and sriracha to taste. 6. Fill the baguette with sauce, meat, pickles and fresh veg. 7. Serve immediately, ideally with prawn crackers or sweet potato fries. A gentle reminder to take January at your own pace, there’s no rush. If you’re enjoying Banter, please rate, review, comment or share, it really helps the podcast grow. Next week, Ep 15, Anu brings together her two worlds, exploring the importance of wills and powers of attorney. Thank you so much for listening 🤍 | |||
| Ep. 13 - Christmas Chaos, Kind Boundaries & Gentle January Goals | 05 Jan 2026 | 00:25:11 | |
Christmas didn’t quite go to plan, New Year’s Eve surprised her (in the best way) and now Anu is easing gently into January with fresh goals, softer boundaries and a big reminder to do less not more. Welcome back to Season 2 of Banter 🎧 🎄 Christmas Reflections: When the Magic Shifts Anu gets real about Christmas being a bit of a sh*t show. From juggling different cultural traditions (European Christmas Eve + Christmas Day), extended family staying over and teens and pre teens who no longer fuss over Santa - she reflects on the pressure to please everyone and the emotional load that comes with it. Takeaways: smaller, quieter Christmas Days, kinder boundaries, and less pressure to host for too long. ✨ New Year’s Eve Done RightA low-key New Year’s Eve with family, close friends, kids and zero pressure - plus a new game obsession: Hitster. Spotify-linked, music-based, competitive and hilarious - highly recommended for all ages. Photos of the game are linked here ! Anu heads into 2026 feeling refreshed, connected and ready. 📝 New Year Goals (Without the Overwhelm)Forget typing, Anu is all about writing goals down. She shares simple, realistic goal-setting ideas:
Plus, how she’s using ChatGPT as an accountability coach with monthly check-ins. 📺 TV RecommendationPernille (Netflix) - a warm, funny and quietly emotional Norwegian series about a divorced mum navigating grief, family and life. A hidden gem. 🎬 Movie RecommendationJay Kelly starring George Clooney & Adam Sandler - a poignant, thoughtful film about ageing, fame, loneliness and identity. Understated, moving, and a standout performance from Adam Sandler! 🧀 Recipe of the Week: Anu’s Chilli Cheese ToastA super easy January comfort bite — perfect as a snack or light dinner with a cup of tea. Ingredients: grated cheese
Method: In a bowl, mix the cheese, red onion, green pepper, tomato, salt and black pepper.
Simple, comforting and perfect for a quiet January evening. 🤍 Closing ThoughtsTake it slow. Ease into January. You don’t need to do everything at once! If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review or comment - it really helps the podcast grow and means so much.Thank you for listening ✨ | |||
| Ep. 12 - Saying Yes, Letting Go & Christmas in London | 22 Dec 2025 | 01:08:36 | |
End of Season One Recorded on her actual birthday, Anu wraps up Season One of Banter with honesty, reflection and festive warmth and is joined by her sister Nidhi, who is visiting from Los Angeles, for a powerful end-of-year conversation about burnout, recovery and starting again. From saying yes more than ever before, to navigating money worries, family and slowing down at Christmas, this episode is a thoughtful, feel good close to the year. Welcome back to Banter — real talk, real life and just enough chaos to keep it interesting ✨ Birthday Reflections & Saying Yes Turning 51, Anu reflects on a year that went faster than expected. From scrolling through old photos to revisiting the intention she set last year, to say yes more, she shares how one small mindset shift led to joy, connection and unforgettable experiences… alongside tiredness and the need for balance. Highlights of the Year From her 50th birthday celebration, Wimbledon men’s finals with her dad, the Champions League final and finally starting Banter, Anu reflects on the moments that truly mattered and the power of going for things even when fear is present. The Lowlights: Money & Mental Load A refreshingly open conversation about financial stress, overspending and the quiet anxiety money can bring, even in a year filled with joy. Anu shares how planning, budgeting and small mindset changes helped her regain a sense of control. Christmas in London (Without the Pressure) 🎄 A reminder that you don’t need constant plans to enjoy Christmas. One or two things a day is plenty - leave space for walks, rest and spontaneity. Favourite festive ideas include:
(Piccadilly Circus → Fortnum & Mason → Jermyn Street → Arcades → Bond Street → Carnaby → Soho → Seven Dials → Covent Garden)
Banter Bites 🍝 La Mia Mamma — joyful Italian food, incredible value and perfect if you want a break from Christmas cooking. Festive TV Pick 📺 Amandaland Christmas Special — Christmas Day on BBC iPlayer. Cosy, sharp and very funny. Special Interview: Sisterhood & Starting Again Anu is joined by her sister Nidhi, who is visiting from Los Angeles, for a deeply honest and inspiring conversation. Nidhi shares her journey through burnout, a serious car accident, traumatic brain injury, forced rest or as she likes to call it a sabbatical, and how surrendering to a slower pace changed her outlook on life, work and healing. A powerful conversation about ambition, identity, recovery and redefining success. Banter Recipes — Christmas Edition 🥬 Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta, Maple & Pecans Ingredients:
Method: Parboil sprouts, drain and dry well. Fry pancetta until crisp, set aside. Sauté shallots (and garlic if using), add sprouts and cook until golden. Return pancetta, drizzle with maple syrup and finish with roasted pecans. Simple, festive and genuinely delicious. Thank you for being part of Season One of Banter — your support has meant everything 💛 This is your gentle reminder to slow down, reflect and carry what matters into the new year. If you’re enjoying the podcast, please rate, review, comment or follow on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. It truly helps the show grow. Wishing you a warm, restful Christmas and a beautiful end to the year ✨🎄 | |||
| Ep. 11 - Mulled Cider, December Pressure & the Sandwich Generation | 15 Dec 2025 | 00:34:38 | |
From easing up on Christmas pressure to mulled cider swaps, caring for ageing parents and a surprise banter confession from a very unexpected guest. Anu reflects on december life with honesty, humour and a lot of perspective. Welcome back to Banter: Real talk, Real life and just enough chaos to keep it interesting! 🧘♀️ A Calmer Run Up to Christmas Anu talks about the sudden shock of it being December (again) and her determination to keep things as stress free as possible this year. From leaving decorations and shopping until the last minute to letting plans unfold naturally, it’s all about choosing ease over pressure. 🍷 Mulled Cider Instead of Mulled Wine A festive game changer. Anu discovers mulled cider and explains why it’s officially replaced mulled wine; lighter, warmer and perfect for decorating the tree with mince pies in hand. 🎁 Gifting Without the Guilt Do we really need to buy presents for friends? Anu shares her relaxed approach to gifting - giving when it feels joyful, letting go when it doesn’t and realising nobody actually minds as much as we think. 🍗 Christmas Food, Minus the Panic No turkey ordered? No problem. Anu talks about ditching the queues, trusting the supermarkets and reminding herself that chicken works just fine if needed. 🤧 Cold & Flu Survival Tips Anu shares the remedies she swears by at the first sign of a cold: from Coldzine to soothing sore throats plus her go to homemade power shots when something starts creeping in: Hot lemon/honey, fresh turmeric, homemade power shots (orange juice + turmeric + ginger + black pepper + honey) The Sandwich Generation A candid, thoughtful reflection on caring for ageing parents while still raising children. From navigating big life decisions to learning when to step back, Anu opens up about worry, boundaries and letting go of what you can’t control. 📺 TV Recommendations Beast in Me - A gripping Netflix drama starring Claire Danes and Matthew Rhys. Intense, binge-worthy and brilliantly acted. Riot Women - A powerful BBC iPlayer series about midlife women forming a punk band - sharp, funny, emotional and deeply relatable. A standout recommendation that feels very Banter. 📚 Book of the Week Broken Country by Claire Leslie Hall A layered rural drama blending love, loss and mystery. Emotional, compelling and an easy yet absorbing read for the festive break. 🎙️ Podcast Pick: How to Fail interview with Alex Hassell An unexpectedly moving conversation about confidence, insecurity and taking risks - a reminder that everyone is figuring it out as they go. 🍽️ Banter Bites: Tower House, Richmond A newly opened, beautiful riverside restaurant with small plates, relaxed elegance and stunning views - so good Anu’s already booked to go back. 😅 Banter Confessions This week’s confession comes from a very special guest, guaranteed to make you smile. Recipe of the Week: Anu-Style Tandoori Chicken, French Beans & Gunpowder Potatoes Tandoori Chicken: - Use chicken thigh fillets or thighs; breast only if cut at an angle. - Marinade: yogurt, 2 tbsp oil, juice of 1/2 lemon, 2 tsp salt, 4 garlic cloves, 2 tsp coriander powder, 2 tsp garam masala, 2 tsp chaat masala (key spice). - Optional ginger. - Marinate 30 mins - overnight. - Bake ~ 45 mins at 200°C. - Finish with chaat masala, lemon/lime, coriander. French Beans: - Fine beans cooked with black mustard seeds and dried curry leaves. - Blanch first if you have time; if not, cook straight in the pan. Gunpowder Potatoes: - Boil tiny potatoes, smash slightly. - Roast with salt, chaat masala, coriander powder, garam masala. - Finish with coriander, extra chaat masala, pomegranate seeds. If you enjoyed this episode, please like, follow, rate and review wherever you listen, it really helps the podcast grow 🌱 Thank you so much for listening and for all your support 💛 ✨ Follow along on Instagram @banter.pod for more. | |||
| Ep.10 - December Musings, Comedy Nights & a Cozy Winter Recipe | 13 Dec 2025 | 00:27:50 | |
🎄 Early December Reflections Christmas Questions 📺 Banter TV Picks Nobody Wants This - warm, funny, easy rom-com vibes. Prisoner 951 - powerful, political and deeply moving. 😂 Comedy Night Out: Quip Shed Comedy 🍴 Restaurant Recommendation 🥣 Recipe of the Week — Roasted Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese & Pesto Sandwich Ingredients: Method: 2. Blend into a smooth, cozy soup. 3. Make a classic grilled cheese on the side. 4. Toss salad leaves with pesto for freshness.The easiest winter comfort you’ll make all season. If you’re enjoying Banter, please rate on Apple Podcasts or leave a comment on Spotify - it truly helps the show grow. Thank you so much for listening 💛 | |||
| Ep. 9 - Midlife, Money & Starting Again with Lise Thorne | 01 Dec 2025 | 01:09:02 | |
Anu’s first ever guest has arrived and what a woman to begin with! This week, she sits down with Lise Thorne, a midlife money mentor helping women rebuild confidence, reclaim their power and finally feel in control of their finances and their future. Honest, warm, funny and deeply relatable - this conversation is everything Banter is meant to be. 💬 Midlife, Money & A Total Reset Lise opens up about navigating midlife change, stepping into independence and the very real emotions that come with starting again. She and Anu dive into: • why women lose confidence around money • rebuilding financial independence after big life shifts • boundaries, friendships & midlife identity • choosing yourself (even when it feels scary) • why it’s never too late to take control of your life 🌱 Reinvention, Purpose & What Comes Next Lise shares what life looks like for her now - a growing platform, meaningful work, a new sense of direction and the tiny steps that helped her get there. A grounded, empowering chat about resilience and trusting your instincts. Find Lise on Instagram: @walking_this_way 🎥 Banter’s First Video Episode For the first time ever, this episode is also available to watch on YouTube. Search: Banter.podcast Thank you for listening to Banter: Real Talk, Real Life. If you’re enjoying the show, please follow, rate or leave a comment, it truly helps the podcast grow 💖 | |||
| Ep.8 - Big Speeches, Somerset Serenity & Christmas Incoming | 24 Nov 2025 | 00:26:04 | |
This week, Anu talks big nerves, big speeches, spontaneous escapes, early Christmas feelings, book and TV recommendations and a beautifully comforting French dish. Real life, real challenges, real growth - and all the Banter in between. ✨ 🎤 The Speech, The Nerves & Saying YES to Challenges The Type 1 Diabetes fundraising ball finally arrived and this year Anu stepped on stage to speak. After days of nerves, the moment came… and the speech went brilliantly. Calm, grounded, joyful and a staggering £150,000 raised for charity. Proof that saying YES to challenges can change everything! 🌿 Somerset, Friendship & Feeling Unstuck A quiet weekend escape. A beautiful eco-home. A heartfelt conversation with a friend who just needed a new challenge. Plus… the surprising story of manifesting a Croatian yacht trip at the fundraiser auction. 🎄 Christmas… Already?! Restaurant bookings, Christmas cards (are we still doing those?), gift lists, calendars filling fast and SALES everywhere. Once December begins, everything accelerates! Recommendations of the Week 📍 Banter Bites: Books for Cooks, Notting Hill A charming neighbourhood gem cooking a new dish every day from one of their cookbooks. Affordable, delicious, cosy and endlessly inspiring. 📺 Banter TV: Better Things Warm, funny, sharp and deeply human. A beautifully observed show about motherhood, chaos, creativity and the emotional absurdity of everyday life, (Celia Imrie stars in this program!) 📚 Banter Book: All Fours by Miranda July Unusual, intimate, funny and wildly imaginative. A bold look at identity, relationships and creativity. 🍽️ Recipe of the Week: Jules’s Duck Parmentier Ingredients: – 4 confit duck legs – 1 large onion, finely chopped – 2–3 garlic cloves, minced – Fresh thyme (a few sprigs) – Splash of white wine or chicken stock – 1kg potatoes, peeled & chopped – Butter (50–70g) – Milk or cream – Salt & pepper – Parmesan or breadcrumbs Method: 1. Preheat oven to 180°C. 2. Remove skin & shred the duck. 3. Sauté onion, then garlic, add duck, thyme + splash of wine/stock. 4. Make mash with potatoes, butter, milk/cream, salt + pepper. 5. Layer duck mix in a baking dish. 6. Spread mash on top. 7. Sprinkle Parmesan or breadcrumbs. 8. Bake 25–30 mins until bubbling and golden. A luxurious, comforting dish that tastes like far more effort than it takes. Thank you so much for listening to Banter 💛 If you’re enjoying the show, following on Spotify and rating on Apple helps more people discover it. | |||
| Ep.7 - Solo Shows, Flaky Commitments & The Dress Dilemma | 17 Nov 2025 | 00:28:08 | |
This week, Anu dives into solo adventures, flaky commitments, goes on the hunt for the perfect ball dress and a hilarious age mix up confession. Plus a gripping book pick, a binge-worthy TV thriller, a favourite Chelsea noodle bar and an easy rotisserie chicken and stacked sweet potato recipe, perfect for cozy November Sundays. Real talk, real life - and all the Banter in between. 🎭 Solo Outing to a Show: The Rest Is Politics Live Anu heads to the Hammersmith Apollo alone to see The Rest Is Politics live and unexpectedly loves every minute of her solo adventure. From pre-show nerves to interval Prosecco, she finds freedom, joy and a surprising sense of empowerment. 🤷♀️ Flaky Commitments: High Stakes vs Low Stakes Friends Anu chats about the unexpected schedule changes that pop up in life, how we cope when plans shift and the funny way we all fall somwhere on the "cancel or commit" spectrum. 👗 The Great Dress Hunt for the Ball Three dresses. One ball. Zero patience for skimpy shapewear. From Harrods to GANNI to a velvet surprise on King’s Road, Anu tries to find the dress while her husband suddenly takes an interest in her outfit! 📚 Banter Book Corner: The Trading Game by Gary Stevenson Anu begins this gripping memoir about a working class maths prodigy who lands at LSE and Citibank and narrates the audiobook himself. Intelligent, compelling and a fresh perspective on money, power and class. More thoughts to come once she finishes. 📺 TV Recommendation: All Her Fault (Now TV / Sky) An eight episode thriller starring Sarah Snook & Dakota Fanning that hooks you from the first scene: a mum arrives to collect her son from a playdate… and the woman at the door has no idea who he is! 🍜 Restaurant Recommendation: Phat Phuk Noodle Bar A long-time favourite just off King’s Road. Order the laksa (not the pho!) - rich, flavourful and unforgettable. 😂 Banter Confession : The Case of the Mistaken Age No listener confessions this week, so Anu shares her own: A woman mistakes her for her 41-year-old friend’s mother… and then another person once suggested she and her mum were her dad’s two wives. Mortification. Comedy gold. Got a confession? DM @banter.pod - she wants them all! 🍽 Recipe of the Week: Effortless Sunday Lunch A store-bought rotisserie chicken paired with: • crispy sweet potato stacks, • roasted broccoli, and • sautéed garlic mushrooms, finished with a bright homemade parsley sauce blitzed with olive oil, lemon and cottage cheese for a protein hit. Delicious. Simple. Perfect for a lazy Sunday. Thank you for listening to Banter - Real Talk, Real Life. If you’re enjoying the podcast, please rate on Apple Podcasts or leave a comment on Spotify - it truly helps the show grow. 💛 | |||
| Ep.6 - November Blues, Type 1 Strength and Self Care Comforts | 10 Nov 2025 | 00:27:58 | |
Do you ever wake up and just feel… beige? Welcome to November - that weird, in between time before the Christmas rush begins. This week, Anu talks about those November blues, finding small joys and why getting “drunk on nature” might just be the best therapy 🌲 💙 Real Life, Real Talk – Life with Type 1 Diabetes Anu opens up about her son’s Type 1 Diabetes and how it’s brought both challenges and unexpected gifts; from resilience to community. With the Breakthrough T1D Ball coming up (where she’s giving a speech!), she shares the nerves, the gratitude and the funny little moments that keep her grounded. 🎁 The Spirit of Christmas (…aka Shopping for Myself) Festive sparkle, warm lights and yes, a touch of self gifting. Anu shares her trip to the Spirit of Christmas Fair, her thoughts on festive chaos and the quiet joy of treating yourself ✨ 🍝 Restaurant Recommendation – Lassagino, Richmond A tiny Sardinian gem (also known as the “Ted Lasso restaurant”) full of charm and authenticity. Delicious food, cosy atmosphere - just don’t sit upstairs if you don’t love narrow stairs! Perfect for a date night, meal for four or a little winter indulgence. 📚 Banter Book of the Week - All of Us by Elizabeth Day A clever, layered and morally complex novel about friendship, privilege and ambition. One of those stories that pulls you in and makes you question every character - perfect for fans of sharp, thought provoking fiction. 🎶 Music Pick - Lily Allen, West End Girl Lily’s first album in seven years - honest, messy and emotional. It’s full of raw storytelling and perfectly imperfect truth. One for your playlist this week. 😂 Banter Confessions This week’s Banter Confession is a classic - one that’ll have you laughing out loud. Want to share your own? 👉 DM Anu on Instagram @banter.pod 🥣 Recipe of the Week - Roasted Butternut Squash, Lentil, Italian Sausage & Cavolo Nero Bowl Proper November comfort food; healthy, hearty and full of flavour! Ingredients:
Method: 1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 200°C (fan 180°C). 2️⃣ Toss the squash cubes with olive oil, salt and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes until golden and caramelised. 3️⃣ Pan fry the sausages until browned and crispy, then slice into bite sized pieces. 4️⃣ Sauté the cavolo nero with a drizzle of olive oil until just wilted. 5️⃣ In a large bowl, combine lentils, roasted squash, sausage and cavolo nero. 6️⃣ Drizzle with olive oil or balsamic glaze and toss gently. Simple, satisfying and full of goodness; comfort in a bowl. 💛 So if November’s got you feeling a bit grey, remember: a little nature, a good meal and some Banter always help! Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, comment and share with someone who might be feeling those November blues too. | |||
| Ep.5 - Half term, Heidelberg and Habits | 03 Nov 2025 | 00:27:29 | |
From Banksy exhibitions to budgeting and our very first Banter Confession, Anu’s back with a full mix of real life and reflection. Half-Term Highlights Money Matters at 50 This Week’s Picks Banter Confessions Recipe of the Week – Easy Asian Bowl with Thai Salmon Ingredients:
Method:
Fresh, easy, and full of flavour - exactly how we like it! ✨ Subscribe, rate & share Banter if you’re enjoying it so far and send in your confession for next week’s show! banterrealtalk@gmail.com | |||
| Ep. 4 - Relationships You Can’t Choose (and Other Real Life Realities) | 27 Oct 2025 | 00:34:32 | |
From family drama you can’t choose to birthday chaos, half term plans and a brand new “Banter Confessions” segment. Anu gets real about life’s messy bits, one laugh (and sigh) at a time.
💬 Relationships You Can’t Choose 🎂 Birthday Chaos and Gift Fails 🎉 Keeping Kids’ Parties Simple 🌧️ Half Term and Family Time 📺 TV Pick of the Week – “Film Club” on BBC iPlayer 📚 Book of the Week : “Nobody’s Girl” by Virginia Roberts Giuffre 😳 New Segment : Banter Confessions Do share your confessions with us: banterrealtalk@gmail.com 🥧 Recipe of the Week – Caramelised Butternut Squash, Blue Cheese & Pecan Tart
Method:
👉 Follow Anu on Instagram @banter.pod for photos, confessions & more! | |||
| Ep. 3 - Mounjaro, Baby! | 20 Oct 2025 | 00:32:31 | |
Anu gets real about her Mounjaro journey - from miracle weight loss to mystery side effects. Plus a mammogram mishap, a Vinted victory and aVictoria Beckham moment that'll make you laugh. 💉 Mounjaro and Anu's Weight Journey 🩺 The Mammogram Moment 🧥 Vinted Find of the Week 📺 TV Recommendations
🎧 Podcast Pick 🍽 Restaurant Recommendation 🥘 Recipe of the Week 📸 See all the photos, finds and foodie moments on Instagram → @banter.pod | |||
| Ep. 2 - Mums, Teens and Everything In Between | 13 Oct 2025 | 00:46:17 | |
This week, Anu is back with more Banter: Real Talk. Real Life. reflecting on motherhood, milestones and the beautiful chaos of everyday life. Here’s what’s inside: 👩👧👦 Life and Reflections → Anu shares an update on her eldest son (spoiler: Germany calls!), her daughter settling into secondary school and a big family moment - her mum’s 75th birthday. 📚 Book Corner → Anu pays tribute to Jilly Cooper and her classic "Rivals". Anu dives into three compelling reads; autobiographies andmemoirs that explore resilience, creativity and the power of personal storytelling. 1. Born a Crime by Trevor Noah 2. From Here to the Great Unknown by Lisa Marie Presley and Riley Keough 3. The Many Lives of Mama Love by Lara Love Hardin 🎭 Culture Spotlight → Theatre is back on the agenda! Anu reviews her trip to Shaftesbury Theatre where she treated her mum to watch Just For One Day: The Live Aid Musical. 📺 TV → Slow Horses on Amazon Prime 📱 Lifestyle Find → The app that’s changing the way she dines out (yes, you’ll want to download this one too): First Table - Anu was able to treat her family to a love meal at Red Farm Restaurant with 50% off! 🍴 Recipe of the Week → Natalie Chassay’s Miso Maple Chilli Sweet Potatoes with Coriander, Lime & Jalapeño Dressing — a vibrant, crowd-pleasing dish that Anu has already made twice (and counting!). Here’s how to make it: 🥔 Ingredients
For the dressing:
🔪 Method
✨ Anu’s tip: “Simple, fresh and full of flavour — just how I like it.” It’s warm, relatable, and full of those little slices of life that make you nod, smile, and think, “Yes, me too.” Real talk, real life, and all the Banter in between. New episodes every Monday 🎧 | |||
| Ep. 1 - Back to School, Summer Reflections and the First Banter | 07 Oct 2025 | 00:32:54 | |
The Banter officially begins! In this first episode, Anu - lawyer, mum and unapologetic pop culture lover introduces Banter: Real Talk. Real Life. with a mix of honest reflections and weekly recommendations. Here’s what’s inside:
Anu shares the hilarious twist of booking a holiday in Albufeira with her 16 year old son and his friend, only to discover their accommodation was right on the party strip! Shocking at first but fun in the end, proving sometimes it’s good to do something different. Meanwhile, her husband and daughter enjoyed a quieter Austrian getaway. And now the family waits on news: her eldest son’s plans to study in Germany. Anu also touches on being part of the sandwich generation where she cares for both her family and elderly parents.
📺 What I’m Watching → Department Q, Netflix 🎭 Culture Spotlight →Sing Street Musical, Lyric Theatre
🍴 Recipe of the Week → Cauliflower Cheese Ingredients: Cauliflower head Gratted cheese Paprika Garlic Powder Dry parsley Salt and pepper Red onions 2tsp brown sugar Method: Cut cauliflower into steaks, pieces also fine. Sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper and dry parsley. Roast for 20 mins. Take out and add grated cheese. In one pan, sauté one long sliced red onion. Add sugar, salt and pepper. Once cauliflower is golden and crispy, sprinkle the onion mix and serve! It’s honest, warm, and the perfect mix of lifestyle, culture, and real talk - like catching up with a friend over coffee or wine! New episodes every Monday 🎧 | |||