Explore every episode of the podcast Parent Unplugged

In this eye-opening podcast episode, we unpack the truth about potty training, nappies, toilet learning, constipation, poo withholding, and the “readiness” myth many parents are told to follow. A research nurse explains why children historically potty trained much earlier, how disposable nappies changed parenting culture, and why waiting for “signs of readiness” may be causing more problems than parents realise. We also discuss toddler constipation, bowel health, potty refusal, anxiety around pooing, and practical ways to make potty training gentler and less stressful for both children and parents. Essential listening for parents of toddlers navigating toilet training struggles, poo withholding, accidents, or delayed potty training.

Helen Thorn - comedian, author and one half of Scummy Mummies — joins me to share the story behind the smile. After discovering her husband had been having an affair, Helen suddenly found herself navigating heartbreak, divorce, single motherhood and rebuilding her life in her 40s - all at the start of lockdown. We talk about betrayal, telling the children, grief, anger, identity, people pleasing, and how she slowly created a life she never expected to love. This is an honest conversation about losing the future you imagined and discovering something better on the other side. 🎙️ Topics: divorce, affairs, co-parenting, motherhood, rebuilding after heartbreak, relationships & resilience.

What is it really like raising children with severe autism?In this powerful and emotional highlight, one mother shares the raw reality of parenting two non-speaking autistic sons with high care needs. From early diagnosis and sleepless nights to extreme behavioural challenges, medication decisions, and the heartbreaking choice to separate her children - this is a story rarely told in full.She opens up about:The early signs of autism and the diagnosis journeyLiving through constant crisis and emotional burnoutWatching your child in distress and not knowing how to helpThe impact on marriage, family life, and identityCo-parenting after separation and doing what’s best for your childrenAnxiety, mental health, and learning to ask for helpThis is an honest, unfiltered conversation about autism parenting, resilience, and survival.If you’re a parent of a neurodivergent child, a carer, or someone looking to better understand autism, this episode offers both insight and hope.

In this deeply emotional episode, we’re joined by Bex Gunn to talk about the reality of miscarriage, baby loss, grief, and the silence so many parents experience after pregnancy loss. Bex shares the heartbreaking story of discovering there was no heartbeat at her 12-week scan during Covid, the traumatic physical experience of miscarriage, and the loneliness that followed. Together, we discuss the things nobody prepares you for - the medical language, the shame, the isolation, the impact on relationships, and why so many people feel unable to talk about pregnancy loss openly. We also explore: What miscarriage is really like physically and emotionally Why baby loss still feels so taboo The comments that help - and the ones that hurt Navigating grief while parenting other children Fertility struggles, jealousy, anger, and guilt How Bex went from sharing one honest post online to co-founding The Worst Girl Gang Ever Foundation Why no one going through miscarriage should feel alone This episode is raw, honest, validating, and incredibly important for anyone who has experienced miscarriage, fertility struggles, or baby loss - or wants to better support someone who has. If this conversation resonates with you, please like, comment, and share to help normalise these conversations around pregnancy loss and grief.

Alice Liveing joins Parent Unplugged for an honest conversation about body image, self-worth, pregnancy, postpartum identity, and what it really means to feel strong.In this episode, Alice opens up about her early experiences in dance and fitness, the pressure to be thin, the reality behind being known as “Alice with abs,” and the physical and emotional cost of chasing a certain body. She also shares how becoming a mum has changed the way she sees strength, health, confidence, and the message she wants to pass on to her daughter.This is a powerful discussion about letting go of “bounce back” culture, rebuilding your identity after having a baby, and learning to value a body that feels strong rather than simply looks a certain way.If you’ve ever struggled with body image, comparison, postpartum confidence, or feeling at home in your body, this episode is for you.#ParentingPodcast #BodyImage #PostpartumJourney #Motherhood #AliceLiving

So many mothers feel pressure to be endlessly giving, patient, and selfless. But what if that expectation is actually hurting us? In this highlight episode, psychologist and author Susie explains why the “selfless mum” myth leads to burnout, resentment, and losing your sense of self - and how small shifts in self-compassion and self-advocacy can change everything. You’ll also learn simple tools to calm your nervous system, reconnect with yourself in everyday moments, and show up as the parent you truly want to be. Because motherhood doesn’t mean you stop mattering.

What happens when your child isn’t developing the way you expected? In this emotional episode, a father shares the reality of raising a nonverbal child - from the heartbreak of self-harm and the fear of an uncertain future, to the questions every parent is scared to ask: Will they ever speak? Will they make friends? Will they live independently? This is a raw, honest conversation about autism, parenting, and the mental spiral so many parents experience - but rarely say out loud. And then… a moment that changes everything. A small, unexpected act of affection that redefines connection, communication, and hope. If you’re a parent navigating autism, speech delays, or just the overwhelming unknowns of raising a child, this episode will stay with you. 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to be the first to hear more real parenting stories every week.

Are baby food pouches actually bad for children? 🤔 In this conversation, registered nutritionist Charlotte breaks down the growing debate around baby food pouches, sugar, and how early eating habits shape a child’s relationship with food.Charlotte explains why pouches aren’t necessarily “bad”, but why relying on them too often may affect a child’s development, texture learning, and long-term eating habits. She also shares practical advice for reducing mealtime pressure, introducing new foods, and helping babies develop healthy relationships with food.In this discussion we cover:Whether baby food pouches are good or bad for babiesWhy texture is important for babies learning to eatThe truth about sugar and hyperactivity in childrenHow early food exposure shapes long-term eating habitsWhy family meals matter during weaningHow parents can reduce stress around mealtimesSimple “1% changes” that can improve your child’s dietThis episode is all about removing guilt from parenting while giving practical, evidence-based advice on feeding babies and toddlers.Whether you're starting weaning or navigating toddler mealtimes, this conversation offers helpful insight and reassurance for parents.

What age should kids get a smartphone - and are we getting it wrong? In this episode, we dive into one of the biggest parenting debates right now: screen time, smartphones, and how to support children’s emotional development in a digital world. From toddler tantrums to teenage group chats, we unpack what’s actually going on beneath behaviour - and why emotional regulation is a skill that takes practice, not punishment. We talk about why telling kids to “calm down” often backfires, how to respond to big emotions in a way that actually works, and why perfection isn’t the goal when it comes to parenting. The conversation also explores the reality of screen use today - breaking down the difference between screens vs content, the pressures parents face, and how to set healthy boundaries without guilt. You’ll also hear practical advice on: Managing tantrums and emotional outbursts Teaching kids lifelong coping skills Setting realistic screen time boundaries Navigating smartphones, social media, and peer pressure Modelling healthy behaviour as a parent This is an honest, relatable conversation for any parent trying to do their best in a world that feels increasingly overwhelming. Because it’s not about getting it perfect - it’s about making small, meaningful changes that actually stick.

Former deputy headteacher Ruth Lue-Quee explains why children learn best through play - not sitting at desks. After launching a petition from her bed that gained 106,000 signatures and triggered a debate in Parliament, she’s campaigning to protect play-based learning in schools. In this highlight episode she reveals why play improves memory, wellbeing, creativity and problem-solving - and why many education systems around the world are already moving in this direction.

Parenting advice often assumes the parent is organised, patient and consistent. But what happens when the parent themselves has ADHD? In this episode, I’m joined by ADHD parenting coach Lauren, who shares her honest experience of raising children while navigating ADHD herself. We talk about the hidden challenges of parenting with a dysregulated nervous system, why traditional parenting advice often doesn’t work for neurodivergent families, and the shame many ADHD parents quietly carry. Lauren opens up about her own diagnosis, the emotional impact of growing up with undiagnosed ADHD, and the moment she realised just how overwhelmed she had become as a parent. Together we explore the realities of raising neurodivergent children, why self-compassion is so important, and how parents can begin to regulate themselves so they can better support their kids. This is an honest, validating conversation for any parent who has ever wondered if they’re doing enough.In this episode we discuss: What it’s really like parenting with ADHD Why most parenting advice isn’t designed for neurodivergent parents The shame many ADHD parents carry Why ADHD isn’t a “lack of attention” How self-compassion can transform parenting

When Daisy got divorced at 30 with a two-year-old son, her life flipped upside down overnight. In this raw and honest conversation, she shares what no one talks about - the heartbreak of handing your child over for the first time, rebuilding financially from scratch, navigating co-parenting, dating after an 11-year relationship, and overcoming postnatal depression. We talk about: Divorce with a young child The emotional rollercoaster of separation Co-parenting and putting your child first Losing your identity in motherhood Rebuilding confidence after divorce Dating again as a single mum Mental health, resilience and starting over This episode is for any mum who feels lost, overwhelmed, or like this chapter might define her forever. It won’t. Subscribe for more honest conversations about motherhood, identity, relationships and rebuilding after life doesn’t go to plan.

Breastfeeding is often described as “the most natural thing in the world” - so why do so many parents struggle with it?In this powerful conversation, midwife Louise Broadridge explores the emotional reality of infant feeding, the pressure placed on new parents, and why feeding trauma is rarely talked about. She explains how a lack of education around breastfeeding physiology leaves many families feeling like they're failing when, in reality, they're navigating a completely normal learning process.From milk supply worries and cluster feeding to formula feeding decisions and maternal mental health, Louise challenges the "breast is best" narrative and argues for a more supportive, evidence-based approach that helps parents meet their own feeding goals without guilt or shame.This episode explores:Why feeding struggles can feel traumaticThe gap between breastfeeding intentions and realityHow understanding milk production reduces anxietyThe impact of feeding challenges on maternal mental healthFormula feeding, breastfeeding, and informed choiceWhy parents need better feeding education and supportA compassionate and thought-provoking discussion about one of the most important - and misunderstood - parts of early parenthood.

Why do kids “lose it” - and why do we lose it with them?In this highlight episode, Dr Holly Symons from Rising IQ explains:• Why children under 7 can’t regulate their emotions alone• What’s happening in your child’s brain during a meltdown• Why your nervous system matters more than you think• How to stay calm when your child is dysregulated• The difference between validation and “giving in”• Why boundaries actually make children feel safeWe talk about emotional intelligence in families, school-to-home transitions, restraint collapse, and how your own childhood can show up in your parenting.Because parenting isn’t about ending the tantrum - it’s about holding the space.If you’ve ever Googled “why does my child behave worse at home?” or “how do I regulate my child’s emotions?” - this conversation is for you.

What happens when becoming a mother collides with grief, depletion, and the pressure to be everything for everyone? In this deeply honest conversation, chartered psychologist and author Suzy shares how the birth of her first child coincided with her father’s terminal illness - a period she describes as “energetic bankruptcy.” From that collision of life events came a powerful realisation: “My depression served no one. My replenishment served everyone.” Together, we explore: Why motherhood feels so relentless The “pandemic of not enoughness” affecting women Why resentment is often unvoiced disappointment The difference between selfishness and self-advocacy Why self-care alone isn’t enough - we must also learn to receive This episode is a permission slip for every mother who feels flat, disconnected, guilty for needing time, or unsure who she is anymore. Because you can be a loving mum and an autonomous human being. And you still matter.

“I would love to eat a whole bowl of cereal by myself… but I know I’ll miss this.”In this candid 10-minute cutdown, Charlie Launder shares the chaos, comedy and complexity of raising three young children while running a business.From never sleeping through the night to rethinking what balance actually means, this is a conversation about:The myth of doing it all at onceWork weeks vs mum weeksWhy sometimes stepping back helps kids step upThe phase you’re desperate to escape… that you’ll one day long forHonest, funny and deeply relatable - this one will make you exhale and feel seen.

If you’ve ever walked out of a meeting feeling like a bad parent… this episode is for you.In this powerful conversation, we explore what it’s really like parenting a child with explosive behaviour and ADHD - the judgment, the guilt, the school misunderstandings, and the pressure to “just be firmer.”We talk about:• Why you can’t discipline ADHD away• The truth about “gentle parenting”• Why meltdowns aren’t manipulation• Masking at school vs home behaviour• Hidden neurodivergence in parents• And the one piece of advice that changed everything: unconditional acceptanceIf you’re exhausted, doubting yourself, or being told “it’s your parenting” - this will feel like a deep exhale.

Is your baby crying constantly, struggling to sleep, arching their back, feeding poorly or seeming uncomfortable after every feed? You might have been told it’s “just colic” or that they’ll “grow out of reflux.” But what if there’s more going on?In this 10-minute highlight episode, Áine Homer breaks down the difference between baby reflux, colic and cow’s milk protein allergy - including the signs to look out for, how symptoms overlap, and why reflux is often a symptom rather than a diagnosis.You’ll learn:What reflux actually isWhy colic isn’t always “just crying”How allergies show up differently in the bodyWhen to trust your instinct as a parentAnd how to start identifying the root causeIf you’re feeling dismissed, confused or exhausted trying to figure out what’s wrong, this episode will give you clarity - and reassurance that you’re not imagining it.

When Charlotte’s baby was just five months old, she had a feeling something was different - a feeling doctors initially dismissed. Months later, her son was diagnosed with autism and global developmental delay, beginning a parenting journey she never expected.In this deeply honest conversation, Charlotte shares what it’s really like raising autistic, non-speaking children, the grief and uncertainty that can come with diagnosis, and the invisible emotional load many parents carry.She talks about pushing for answers when she wasn’t believed, the loneliness that followed the diagnosis, the reality of parenting children with complex needs, and how motherhood can reshape your identity in ways no one prepares you for.This episode explores:• Early signs of autism in babies• What it’s like raising non-speaking autistic children• The grief parents rarely talk about after a diagnosis• Parenting multiple children with very different needs• Anxiety, burnout, and the invisible load of motherhoodAn incredibly raw and powerful story about intuition, resilience, and what it truly means to advocate for your child.

From singing instead of shouting to using play instead of threats, this episode is all about embracing the messiness of real parenting. We unpack emotional regulation, connection, meltdowns, and why “not listening” is often just a relational issue - not defiance. Less pressure, more compassion, for parents and kids alike.

What if the way we’ve been taught to feed children is actually working against them? In this episode of Parent Unplugged, we’re joined by paediatric nutritionist Charlotte to unpack why food rules like “eat your dinner before pudding” can create pressure, hierarchy, and long-term food struggles - even when they’re well-intentioned. We talk about: Why putting dessert on a pedestal can backfire How pressure at mealtimes leads to food refusal The difference between restriction and guidance Why exposure (not force) builds food confidence The “1% change” approach that actually works for fussy eating And why pouches alone aren’t appropriate - without the guilt or fear-mongering This conversation is honest, compassionate, and grounded in real parenting - messy moments, wobble days, and all. If you’re exhausted by fussy eating, confused by conflicting advice, or worried you’re “doing food wrong,” this one’s for you. 🎧 Listen now - and breathe. You’re not failing.

For many mothers, the biggest shock after having kids isn’t the lack of sleep - it’s the mental load. The constant planning, anticipating, managing and emotional labour that quietly becomes their responsibility, often leading to resentment and burnout.

In this episode, child and anxiety specialist Dr. Katie Bodge shares her expertise on supporting children who are highly sensitive, deeply feeling, or struggling with anxiety. From understanding meltdowns, sleep issues, and somatic symptoms to knowing how-and when-to reassure your child, Katie breaks down practical strategies for parents. Learn how your own nervous system impacts your child, why validation is key, and how to help kids feel safe, supported, and understood. Perfect for parents of children ages 2-7 who want to understand anxiety, navigate school challenges, and build a calmer home environment.

What is it really like to foster a child? In this powerful episode, Charis sits down with Deborah Bright, who has spent the last 35 years fostering more than 200 children alongside raising her own family and adopting two children herself. Deborah shares the realities of fostering, from welcoming newborn babies into her home to the heartbreak of saying goodbye when they move on. She opens up about the emotional toll, the impact on her family, the challenges of caring for traumatised children, and the moments that have made it all worthwhile. Together, Charis and Deborah discuss: • How Deborah first became a foster carer • The hardest part of fostering • Supporting children through trauma and loss • Maintaining relationships with birth families • Why there is a shortage of foster carers • The realities of fostering teenagers • The emotional impact on foster carers and their families • The moment Deborah knew she'd made a difference This is an honest, moving conversation about love, loss, resilience and the life-changing impact of opening your home to a child in need. If you've ever considered fostering, or simply want to hear an extraordinary story from someone who has dedicated her life to helping children, this episode is for you.

In this Parent Unplugged highlight episode, I’m joined by Jessica Joelle Alexander, bestselling author of The Danish Way of Parenting, to explore what makes Danish children some of the happiest in the world.We talk about why free play matters more than activities, how involving children in everyday chores builds deep self-esteem, and why feeling genuinely needed in the family is more powerful than praise. Jessica shares the Danish mindset shift that turns cooking, cleaning and daily routines into moments of connection, play and belonging.We also dive into nurturing the roots of self-esteem (not just the “foliage”), teaching children to embrace all emotions, and the Danish concept of we-fulness - being fully present together, without distractions.A gentle but powerful conversation for parents who want less pressure, more connection, and happier homes.

If your child holds it together all day at school, only to unravel the moment they get home, you’re not alone - and you’re not doing anything wrong. In this episode of Parent Unplugged, Charis is joined by clinical psychologist Dr Holly Symons to explain what’s really happening beneath those after-school meltdowns. From “restraint collapse” and emotional regulation to why children feel safest releasing big feelings at home, this conversation offers clarity, reassurance, and practical ways to support your child without trying to fix or suppress their emotions. A must-listen for parents navigating big feelings, busy days, and the chaos of home life.

Parent Unplugged's Marketing Director Ashleigh McNicholas shares a moment she’ll never forget: taking her baby to church for the first time ahead of her christening. What started as an innocent milestone quickly turned into chaos, awkward stares, and a very messy nappy. A warm, funny and honest story about new motherhood, expectations vs reality, and those moments every parent secretly hopes no one noticed.

Becoming parents is often where couples start to quietly struggle - not because the love disappears, but because everything changes at once.In this episode, clinical psychologist Suzie Booth explores why relationship difficulties so often begin in the early years of parenting, even if they don’t surface until much later. We talk about how exhaustion, stress, and nervous-system overload can push couples into survival mode, how unspoken resentment builds over time, and why hoping things will “just get better” rarely works.We also unpack the emotional disconnect many parents feel after having children, why dads can feel pushed out, why mums can feel unbearably lonely, and how learning to repair after rupture is what actually makes relationships feel safe again.This conversation is for anyone who loves their partner, loves their children — and still feels like something has shifted since becoming parents.

Motherhood can be overwhelming - but why does it so often come with anger, guilt, and shame? In this episode of Parent Unplugged, we’re joined by Dr Caroline Boyd, clinical psychologist and specialist in maternal rage, anger, and anxiety, to unpack the question so many mothers silently ask themselves: “Why aren’t I coping better?” We explore why maternal anger is so common, why it’s so deeply stigmatised, and why it has nothing to do with being a “bad mum.” From broken sleep and sensory overload to being the default parent and carrying invisible mental load, Dr Boyd explains how modern motherhood creates the perfect conditions for rage - and why anger is not the problem, but a messenger. In this conversation, we talk about: What maternal rage actually is (and why it’s not a personal failure) Why anger often turns inward as shame and self-criticism The pressure of “perfect” and gentle parenting ideals Why mothers feel guilty for emotions they were never taught how to handle The “drip, drip, drip” effect that leads to explosive moments Practical ways to regulate anger in the moment How to repair after losing your temper - with your child and yourself Why compassion, not control, is the key to breaking cycles This episode is for any parent who has ever felt overwhelmed, touched-out, overstimulated, or ashamed of their own emotions - and wants to understand themselves with more kindness. You are not broken. You are human. And you are not alone. We talk about different contextual forces at play that shape our responses to anger. These social contexts are numerous and varied for every individual, often including important identities such as race, class and sexuality, which influence how we feel and express anger.About CarolineClinical psychologist Dr Caroline Boyd has over 10 years' experience working in the NHS and mental health settings, and she supports parents from pregnancy to childbirth and beyond. Caroline offers anger courses, workshops and 1:1 therapy in her independent psychology practice, Parent Therapy Hub.Caroline is the author of Mindful New Mum, and her published research explores mothers' experiences of intrusive thoughts about their babies. Her work has been featured in You magazine, Elle, Grazia, the Telegraph and Woman's Hour on BBC Radio 4, and she is an Ambassador for UK perinatal mental health charity, PANDAS. Caroline shares psychology ideas on Instagram and in the media to help parents feel less alone and more connected - to themselves and their children.You can reach Caroline at drcarolineboyd.com or via Instagram @_drboyd Caroline offers a self-paced anger course for mothers (USE THE CODE “PODCAST” TO CLAIM YOUR £100 DISCOUNT): Download Caroline’s FREE GUIDE on how to handle anger in HOT moments:For an overview of Caroline’s work, including her book, Mindful New Mum, click here.If you’re struggling with difficult thoughts and feelings or if this episode raises any concerns for you, please talk to a trusted health professional such as your GP.You can also reach out to the services below: UK: PANDAS offer a free, bookable call service Samaritans – 116 123US: Postpartum Support International - 1-800-944-4773 (4PPD)For emergency help - call 999 or visit your local A&E department

In this week’s Parent Unplugged: Confessions, host Charis shares a parenting story that went wildly off-plan - and proves that holidays with children are anything but relaxing. From the shame of that preschool email, to a family trip to Dubai that spiralled into sick babies, surprise medical bills, an emergency tooth extraction, traffic chaos, and ice cream for dinner in a shopping mall - this is a raw, funny, and painfully relatable reminder that parenting doesn’t pause just because you’ve gone abroad. If you’ve ever come back from a “holiday” more exhausted than when you left, felt guilty for admitting it wasn’t magical, or wondered why everything is harder when you’re away from home - this confession is for you. Real stories. No filters. You’re not alone.

Confused by conflicting advice about feeding your children? In this 10-minute cutdown, author and nutrition expert Lucy Upton shares practical, compassionate tips for helping children develop a healthy relationship with food. Learn how to navigate fussy eating, handle sweets without guilt, and create mealtimes that feel safe - for both kids and parents. Lucy also explains why chocolate can have its place, why children aren’t addicted to sugar, and how relaxing around food actually helps kids regulate their own appetite. Perfect for parents who want confidence, not stress, at the dinner table.

In this episode of Parent Unplugged, we talk to Ruth Lue-Quee, the campaigner who successfully brought a petition to Parliament to revise statutory guidance for Key Stage One. Ruth explains why play-based pedagogy isn’t just for Early Years, how England’s KS1 system has historically left children with a sudden shift to formal learning, and why extending developmentally appropriate play into Years 1 and 2 benefits academic outcomes, wellbeing, and lifelong skills. She shares the journey of her campaign, the overwhelming public support, and practical advice for parents to nurture learning through play at home. A must-listen for anyone passionate about education, child development, and the power of play.

In this episode, Charis is joined by psychotherapist, author, and mum of three Anna Mathur to talk honestly about burnout, productivity, and the invisible cost of always being the one who copes. Anna shares the moment she realised she had nothing left in the tank - sitting on the kitchen floor, unable to pack a bag or make a simple decision - and how burnout became one of her most painful teachers. Together, they unpack why so many parents tie their identity to productivity, why exhaustion gets applauded, and how guilt keeps us stuck in cycles of depletion. This conversation is a powerful reminder that burnout isn’t a personal failure - it’s a collective issue. And that caring for yourself isn’t selfish, it’s essential. For your mental health, for your nervous system, and for the children who need to see you rested, resourced, and able to laugh again.

This week on Parent Unplugged, I’m joined by Charlie Barker, creator of The Good, The Hard, and The Chaos. Charlie is loved for sharing motherhood as it really is - honest, messy, and full of heart. In this episode we talk about: ⭐️ Why she started The Good, The Hard, and The Chaos ⭐️ The family-of-five car story and everyday parenting chaos ⭐️ Why small moments of calm (like breakfast alone) matter so much ⭐️ How she handles being the “shouty mum” on tough days ⭐️ The little joys that make the chaos worthwhile

What happens when the future you imagined for your child suddenly changes? In this powerful and deeply honest conversation, a father shares what it really felt like in the early days of his son’s autism diagnosis - the fear, the uncertainty, and the quiet grief that so many parents experience but rarely talk about. From spiralling thoughts about the future… to feeling like everyone else has it easier… to questioning everything you thought parenting would be… This is the reality behind the moments no one sees. 💔 “What you’re grieving, in a sense, is the life you imagined.” We talk about: - The emotional impact of an autism diagnosis - The pressure parents feel to “do everything right” - Feeling isolated in everyday situations - Why grief can exist even when your child is right in front of you - Learning to navigate a completely different version of parenthood If you’re a parent feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or alone in this - this conversation will make you feel seen.

In this special 10-minute cutdown of Parent Unplugged, Charis is joined by bestselling author and feeding expert Annabel Karmel, whose work has shaped how millions of parents feed their children - and whose journey began with profound personal loss. Annabel shares the heartbreaking story of losing her daughter Natasha as a baby, the devastating circumstances surrounding her death, and the life-altering decision that followed: to have another child and channel her grief into something meaningful. What began as a mother trying to nourish her son and rebuild his health became a book written as therapy - one that was rejected by every publisher before going on to sell over five million copies worldwide. Alongside her personal story, Annabel offers clear, reassuring guidance on weaning, choking vs gagging, iron needs, allergies, fussy eating, and how parents can feel more confident during one of the most pressured stages of early parenting. This episode is about more than feeding children. It’s about grief, resilience, science-led parenting - and creating a legacy from love.

This week on Parent Unplugged, I’m joined by Dr Tara Porter, clinical psychologist and Sunday Times bestselling author of Good Enough. Tara shares powerful insights on why striving for perfection leaves parents burnt out and how “good enough” is exactly what children need. We cover: ⭐️ Why perfectionism makes parenting harder ⭐️ How to balance being firm and kind ⭐️ What “good enough” looks like at different ages and stages ⭐️ Practical ways to ease guilt and find self-compassion ⭐️ Three simple actions parents can take this week to feel more confident

Some children don’t just dislike food - they fear it. In this 10-minute highlight, nutritionist and Brain Food author Lucinda Miller explains why highly selective eating is often rooted in neurology, sensory processing, and stress - not stubbornness or bad habits. We explore why mealtimes can trigger fight-or-flight, how nutrient depletion affects regulation and behaviour, and what actually helps children feel safe enough to expand their diet. A must-watch for parents of selective or neurodivergent eaters.

This week on Parent Unplugged, I’m joined by Dr Jade Redfern, clinical psychologist, parenting coach, and mum of three. Jade shares practical, compassionate tools to help parents feel calmer and more connected. We cover: ⭐️ How to stop yelling and manage those heated moments ⭐️ Coping with guilt after you lose your temper ⭐️ Top tips for parents’ own emotional regulation ⭐️ Why kids need to feel their big feelings (and why we shouldn’t rush to fix them) ⭐️ How to reframe negative self-talk like “I should be grateful” or “I’m snapping too much” #ParentingPodcast #GentleParenting #PositiveParenting #ParentingTips #MumLif

Bedtime with toddlers can feel relentless - the stalling, the getting out of bed again and again, the early mornings, and that constant pull between meeting your child’s needs and desperately needing a moment to yourself. In this 10-minute Parent Unplugged highlight, parenting coach Charis Halsall speaks with child sleep specialist Gemma Coe about what’s really going on beneath toddler sleep struggles - and how to respond without power struggles or unrealistic expectations. Together, they explore: Why toddlers resist bedtime (and why “7 till 7” often isn’t realistic) How routines and visual cues can make bedtime feel fairer What to do when children keep getting out of bed Early waking, dropped naps, and changing sleep needs Holding your child’s hand to fall asleep - when it helps and when it can backfire Separation anxiety, night terrors, and co-sleeping How parents can balance their child’s sleep needs with their own wellbeing A calm, honest conversation for parents who want realistic sleep support - without blame, pressure, or rigid rules.

This one is for every mum who’s ever ended the day feeling totally drained - even when the to-do list didn’t look that overwhelming. I’m joined by the brilliant @morgancutlip to talk about the unseen emotional load so many of us are carrying - and what we can do to feel more supported, less resentful, and more like ourselves again. We talk about: ⭐ Why the day-to-day of motherhood can feel so exhausting ⭐ The frustration of having to ask your partner for help ⭐ How to deal with quiet resentment in your relationship ⭐ Getting more comfortable with needing - and receiving - support ⭐ What invisible labour actually looks like (and why it matters) ⭐ Small changes that can help you feel more like a team

Routine resumes. Expectations are high. Reality has other plans. In this Parent Unplugged: Confessions episode, counsellor Suzie Booth shares a story involving timing, impulse, and a sentence she wishes she could take back. Parenting: undefeated.

A focused 10-minute cutdown from our conversation with conscious parenting coach Emily Hughes, bringing you the most powerful insights on tantrums, triggers, and connection - fast. In this short edit, Emily shares: Why tantrums are signs of overwhelm, not bad behaviour Why children don’t always “listen” - especially during play How connection before correction reduces power struggles What parental triggers can teach us about ourselves Why punishment doesn’t work - and what helps instead This is conscious parenting made practical - designed for busy parents who want clarity, reassurance, and calm in just ten minutes.

I’m joined by Jo Rodriguez, a health psychologist and the voice behind Straightforward Psychology on Instagram (63k followers). She helps overwhelmed, exhausted adults feel less sh*t - and in this chat, we bring her wisdom straight into the world of parenting. Here’s what we cover: ⭐ Why kids trigger us more than anyone else ⭐ What happens when we calm the body first so the mind can follow ⭐ How to know if you’re tired vs burned out ⭐ Finding yourself again after having kids ⭐ Why parenting brings out so much anxiety ⭐ The guilt parents feel for putting themselves first - and how to move past it #ParentingPodcast #ParentBurnout #MumLifeUnplugged #ParentAnxiety #ParentSupport #OverwhelmedParents

This week on Parent Unplugged, I’m joined by Dr Anna Colton, Clinical Psychologist and author of How to Talk to Children About Food. Anna shares how we can heal our own relationship with food so we don’t pass guilt or shame onto our children. We talk about: ⭐️ Why labelling food as “good” or “bad” is unhelpful ⭐️ Practical things parents can do at mealtimes to protect children’s relationship with food ⭐️ How to stop our own food issues spilling onto our kids ⭐️ The importance of language we use about our own bodies ⭐️ How to handle comments from grandparents like “clear your plate” or “no pudding until you’ve eaten your veg”

In this deeply moving episode, Chris shares the story of losing his wife Laura to sarcoma — a rare and aggressive cancer — while raising their young daughter together. From the shock of diagnosis during early parenthood, through treatment, recovery, relapse, and ultimately end-of-life care, Chris opens up about the reality of navigating grief in real time while still trying to be a present father. He reflects on the moment their “normal life” changed forever, the challenges of explaining illness and death to a small child, and how he has continued to parent through heartbreak, responsibility, and love. This conversation explores grief, resilience, and what it means to keep going when everything you planned for your future disappears. A powerful story of love, loss, and legacy — and how one family continues to honour Laura’s memory every day. Topics include: Sarcoma diagnosis and treatment journey Parenting through terminal illness Sudden loss and bereavement Explaining death to young children Life after losing a partner Building legacy and raising awareness of sarcoma

This week on Parent Unplugged, I’m joined by Jessica Joelle Alexander, bestselling author of The Danish Way and The Danish Way Everyday. We talk about the Danish secrets to raising happier, more resilient kids and how you can bring them into your own family life. We cover: ⭐️ What The Danish Way is all about ⭐️ The PARENT model explained simply ⭐️ How to bring more play into everyday life ⭐️ Why honesty matters, even in tough conversations ⭐️ How hygge and togetherness build strong family bonds #ParentingPodcast #GentleParenting #PositiveParenting #ParentingTips #MumLife

In this episode of Parent Unplugged, I’m joined by paediatric dietitian and feeding therapist Emma Shafqat for a deep dive into fussy eating - the normal, the not-so-normal, and the stuff nobody tells you until you’re crying over a cold plate of pasta. Emma breaks down why toddlers often hit that “neophobic stage” (yep, there’s an evolutionary reason they suddenly act like broccoli might kill them), and the red flags that suggest a child may need extra help with eating. We talk about: • What typical fussy eating looks like • When pickiness becomes “problem eating” • Texture issues, sensory overload, and why dinner time is the hardest meal • The gentle, step-by-step exposure approach that actually works • Why pressure backfires - even when you’re desperate • How to structure meals so kids feel safe, not overwhelmed • The power of play, sensory exploration, and getting kids involved • When to trust your gut and seek support It’s a compassionate, practical conversation for any parent who’s exhausted by mealtime battles or quietly worrying, “Should my child have grown out of this by now?” You’re not failing. Your kid isn’t broken. And Emma’s wisdom might just change your whole approach.

This week on Parent Unplugged, I’m joined by Zoe Blaskey, founder of Motherkind, host of the top-ranking Motherkind podcast, and author of the brilliant new book Motherkind. Zoe shares powerful insights into the reality of modern motherhood and how we can start living with more compassion and less guilt. We cover: ⭐️ Why motherhood today feels harder than ever ⭐️ The truth about mum-guilt and how to ease it ⭐️ How to spot the signs of burnout before it takes hold ⭐️ The boundaries mums need most (and why they’re so hard to set) ⭐️ Why self-compassion could be the most important parenting tool we have

This week on Parent Unplugged, I’m joined by psychotherapist and author Emma Reed-Turrell to talk about why Christmas can feel so overwhelming — and how to create the festive season you actually want. We cover: ⭐️ How to set boundaries at family gatherings without the guilt ⭐️ What to do if you don’t want to host Christmas this year ⭐️ Managing split families and different generations ⭐️ How to handle gifts you don’t want your children to have ⭐️ Why you don’t have to keep every single tradition alive #ParentingPodcast #GentleParenting #ChristmasStress #ParentingTips #MumLife