Explore every episode of the podcast The Netmums Podcast

Welcome to Family Food Made Easy, a special podcast collaboration from Netmums and Veg Power, supported by Sainsbury’s. Hosted by Louise Burke, this three-part miniseries tackles the daily challenges of feeding our families, exploring how to make healthy eating joyful, accessible, and affordable.

In this first instalment, Louise is joined by two expert guests to chat about all things fibre: firstly, why getting enough fibre in our diets is so important, and secondly… how we can actually do it?  

About our guests:

Rhiannon Lambert - Leading registered nutritionist & Sunday Times best-selling author

Lauren Leyva - Multi-award-winning home cook, content creator & presenter.

Rhiannon shares vital insights on the importance of a fibre-rich diet for our families, including some pretty shocking statistics about fibre intake among children and adults in the UK. She explains how ultra-processed foods are affecting our health and why it's crucial to support our gut health through better nutrition and fibre consumption.

Later in the episode, home cook and content creator Lauren Leyva enters the chat to tell us how we can incorporate more fibre into family meals. Lauren provides plenty of practical tips including clever swaps and additions to beloved dishes, without sacrificing taste (or blowing the food shop budget!)

In this episode:

- The critical role of fibre in children's health

- Simplifying conflicting nutritional advice

- Easy ways to boost fibre in everyday meals

- Creative cooking tips to make healthy eating fun

- The importance of involving kids in the cooking process

Family Food Made Easy is brought to you by Netmums and Veg Power, a not-for-profit alliance dedicated to improving children’s diets by making healthy, sustainable eating more desirable. 

This special series is supported by Sainsbury's. Look out for the new full-on fibre labelling and store designed to make it easier to spot choices that can help you and your family get more fibre into your diet.

For more trusted parenting advice, visit Netmums and join the conversation on social @Netmums.

Produced by Decibelle Creative

For the Series 19 finale of The Netmums Podcast, we’re switching things up with a special video episode. After a series spent asking the questions, dad host JB Gill finds himself on the other side of the conversation as his wife Chloe joins him on the sofa in the studio – and Louise gets the chance to find out what JB is really like as a husband and dad behind closed doors.

Together for 17 years and married for 12, JB and Chloe open up about the reality of making family life work around busy and unpredictable careers. They talk honestly about communication, reconnecting after time apart and how they operate as a team – even if Chloe, as the family’s self-described 'CEO of the girls' carries much of the mental load at home.

The couple also share how they’re raising Ace, 11, and Chiara, 7, to stay grounded despite growing up around entertainment, travel and life in the public eye. From chores and personal responsibility to resisting the urge to fix every problem for their children, JB and Chloe explain why preparing them for adulthood matters more than making life easy. 

And Chloe reveals whether the JB listeners know from the podcast is the same man she gets at home!

In this episode:

• Chloe reveals what JB is really like at home
• The reality of sharing the parenting load
• How they keep Ace and Chiara grounded
• The secret to 17 years together
• His and her opinions on different parenting styles
• The difference between bring up boys and girls

And because we couldn’t let JB escape that easily, the episode finishes with a very revealing Mr & Mrs-style challenge, as the couple put their 17 years together to the test, compare parenting habits and discover just how well they really know each other.

A funny, warm and revealing Series 19 finale about marriage, mental load, raising grounded kids and the reality of family life behind the scenes.

Fancy watching the full episode of The Netmums Podcast on Youtube? Visit the Netmums YouTube Channel now!

Read more trusted parenting advice at Netmums and join the conversation on social @Netmums.

Thanks for a great Series 19. Looking forward to Series 20 in October 2026... JB and Louise would love to hear your parenting stories, questions and dilemmas. Email thenetmumspodcast@netmums.com and you could be featured in a future episode.

The Netmums Podcast is brought to you by Netmums, trusted by parents, backed by experts. This episode was produced by Further Films.

What happens when the parenting reality doesn't match the picture you imagined? On The Netmums Podcast this week, comedian, actress, author and mum of two Ellie Taylor joins JB Gill and Louise Burke for a special video episode full of brilliantly honest conversation about the messy, funny and emotional reality of family life.

Ellie, a former Strictly contestant and also a star of the popular TV show, Ted Lasso, opens up about why she found the newborn stage so difficult, the guilt of not feeling an instant bond with her babies, and why she believes more parents need to be honest about those early struggles. She is also super honest about the moment she was struck by gender disappointment with her second child and the challenges of welcoming another baby after a five-year age gap.

The conversation goes on to explore how she shares the parenting load with a stay-at-home dad, and how motherhood has reshaped her marriage. 

Ellie talks openly about the love for her children while also reflecting on learning to let go of control and embracing a ‘good enough’ approach to parenting. Plus, she talks about balancing a busy career with family life and filming her latest ITV show The Box out this autumn.

In this episode:

• Why Ellie didn't instantly fall in love with motherhood
• The reality of having a second child
• Gender disappointment and changing expectations
• Sharing parenting with a stay-at-home dad
• Keeping a relationship alive after children
• Why 'good enough' parenting is enough

Whether you're in the newborn trenches, weighing up a second child or simply trying to hold everything together, this episode is full of honest reflections, big, big laughs and reassuring reminders that parenting doesn't have to be perfect to be enough.

Fancy watching the full episode of The Netmums Podcast on Youtube? Visit the Netmums YouTube Channel now!

Read more trusted parenting advice at Netmums and join the conversation on social @Netmums.

JB and Louise would love to hear your parenting stories, questions and dilemmas. Email thenetmumspodcast@netmums.com and you could be featured in a future episode.

The Netmums Podcast is brought to you by Netmums, trusted by parents, backed by experts.

This episode was produced by Further Films.

Summer holidays are brilliant... until someone says, ‘I’m hungrrrry’ for the fifth time before 11am.

In this episode of The Netmums Podcast, JB Gill and Louise Burke are joined by leading baby and child nutritionist Charlotte Stirling-Reed to tackle one of parents' biggest summer challenges: feeding the family without the guilt.

From endless snack requests and picnic planning to heatwave eating habits, holiday treats and the pressure to get it ‘right’, Charlotte shares practical, reassuring advice to help parents take the stress out of mealtimes. She explains why one ice cream, or even one whole summer, won't define your child's relationship with food, why healthy eating is built over days, weeks, months and years, and how small, consistent habits matter far more than perfection.

Charlotte also explores why the first 1,000 days of a child's life are so important, shares balanced advice following the BBC Panorama investigation into the safety of baby food pouches, and offers realistic, affordable tips for busy families. Plus, if you're wondering whether you've missed the boat with older children, she explains why it's never too late to build healthier eating habits.

In this episode:

• Why children seem hungry all the time during the summer holidays
• Healthy picnic ideas and budget-friendly snacks for days out
• Should parents feel guilty about daily ice creams?
• How to encourage healthy eating without creating pressure or guilt
• Why the first 1,000 days matter and what that means in real life
• Baby food pouches, convenience foods and making informed choices without judgement
• Can you improve your child's eating habits if they're older?

Find out more about Charlotte's work atwww.srnutrition.co.uk and discover her books How to Wean Your Baby, How to Feed Your Toddler, How to Feed Your Family and The Ultimate Weaning & Toddler Cookbook.

Read more trusted parenting advice at Netmums and join the conversation on social @Netmums.

JB and Louise would love to hear your parenting stories, questions and dilemmas. Email thenetmumspodcast@netmums.com and you could feature in a future episode.

The Netmums Podcast is brought to you by Netmums – trusted by parents, backed by experts.

Prefer to watch? Full episodes are available on the Netmums YouTube channel.

This episode has been produced by Decibelle Creative.

*This episode contains discussions around baby loss, birth trauma and grief. Please listen in a way that feels right for you.

This week on The Netmums Podcast, Louise Burke and JB Gill are joined by television personality and author Lauren Goodger for an honest and deeply moving conversation about motherhood, grief and finding the strength to keep going.

In her new book, Mum of Two, Lauren shares the story behind the headlines – from the overwhelming joy of becoming a mum to daughter Larose, to the unimaginable heartbreak of losing her second daughter, Lorena. She opens up about navigating grief while parenting, learning to live alongside loss, and why she wants other bereaved parents to know they're not alone.

Lauren also reflects on the realities of early motherhood, the pressure to appear as though you're coping, the importance of asking for help, and how she's found moments of hope and joy again.

In this episode:

• Why becoming a mum changed Lauren's life forever
• The raw reality of early motherhood and feeling like you're in survival mode
• Parenting through grief and keeping Lorena's memory alive
• Why healing isn't about ‘moving on’ from loss
• Finding strength, purpose and hope after the hardest days

If this episode raises difficult feelings for you, support is available through organisations including Sands, Tommy's and PANDAS.

Read more trusted parenting advice at Netmums and join the conversation on social @Netmums.

JB and Louise would love to hear your parenting stories, questions and dilemmas. Email thenetmumspodcast@netmums.com and you could be featured in a future episode.

The Netmums Podcast is brought to you by Netmums, trusted by parents, backed by experts.

Fancy watching full episodes of The Netmums Podcast on YouTube? Visit the Netmums YouTube Channel now!

Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative.

How do we raise our children to believe they're enough in a world that's constantly telling them they need to look different, be different or do more?

This week on The Netmums Podcast, Louise Burke and JB Gill are joined by broadcaster, best-selling author, campaigner and mum-of-two Katie Piper for an inspiring conversation about confidence, resilience and raising children who value themselves for who they truly are.

Drawing on both her own extraordinary life experiences (most notably surviving a life-changing acid attack in 2008, carried out at the request of her ex-boyfriend) and her work with international children's cleft charity Smile Train, Katie shares why true confidence isn't something we inherit – it's something we build. Together, they explore how parents can nurture resilience from an early age, support children through the pressures of social media and appearance culture, and encourage them to develop a strong sense of identity that goes far beyond external validation.

Katie also reflects on becoming a mum, how parenthood changed her perspective, why she was determined not to pass her own fears onto her daughters, and what her children have taught her about healing, patience and self-compassion.

In this episode:

• Why resilience is the real foundation of confidence
• Helping children build self-worth beyond appearance
• Raising girls in the age of filters, influencers and social media
• Why Katie encourages her daughter to focus on discovering who she is before worrying about relationships
• Katie's work with Smile Train and supporting families and children born with cleft lip and palate around the world
• Challenging stigma and misconceptions surrounding facial differences
• How becoming a mum transformed Katie's outlook on life
• The parenting lessons Katie's daughters have taught her

Whether you're raising toddlers or teenagers, this episode is packed with thoughtful advice and reassuring reminders about helping children grow up believing that who they are matters far more than how they look.

Read more expert advice at Netmums and join the conversation on social @Netmums.

JB and Louise would love to hear your parenting stories, questions and dilemmas. Email thenetmumspodcast@netmums.com and you could be featured in a future episode.

The Netmums Podcast is brought to you by Netmums, trusted by parents, backed by experts.

Proudly produced by Further 

This week on The Netmums Podcast, Louise Burke and JB Gill tackle one of the biggest parenting challenges of our time: keeping children safe online.

With the UK moving towards restricting social media access for under-16s, this conversation couldn't be more timely.

Joining the podcast are Lauren Cowell, campaigner for the Raise the Age movement, entrepreneur and fiancee to Simon Cowell, and Ellen Roome, who has dedicated herself to improving online safety following the devastating loss of her 14-year-old son, Jools.

Together, they share powerful insights into the realities of parenting in the digital age, why parental controls alone aren't enough, and the practical steps every family can take to better protect their children online.

From delaying smartphones and keeping devices out of bedrooms to building open conversations and recognising the hidden risks of social media, this episode offers honest advice every parent needs to hear.

In this episode:

• Why many parents feel they're fighting a losing battle online
• The reality of navigating parental controls
• Practical ways to keep children safer online
• How to build trust so children come to you when something goes wrong
• The online risks every parent should understand, from algorithms to sextortion
• Why campaigners believe stronger protections for children are urgently needed

* This episode touches on child loss and online harm. Please listen in a way that feels right for you.

Read more expert advice at Netmums and join the conversation on social @Netmums.

JB and Louise would love to hear your parenting stories, questions and dilemmas. Email thenetmumspodcast@netmums.com and you could feature in a future episode.

The Netmums Podcast is brought to you by Netmums, trusted by parents, backed by experts.

Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative.

This week on The Netmums Podcast, Louise Burke and JB Gill are joined by psychotherapist and best-selling author Anna Mathur for an honest conversation about the parenting moments we're often too ashamed to admit.

Why do we snap at the people we love most? And what does it really say about us?

Drawing on both her professional expertise and her own experiences as a mum of three, Anna explains why anger is so often the final symptom of stress, overwhelm and impossible expectations – not bad parenting. Inspired by her new book, How to Stop Snapping at the People You Love, she shares practical ways to recognise the warning signs before we reach breaking point, repair after we've lost our temper, and show ourselves the same compassion we offer everyone else.

If you've ever ended the day thinking, 'That wasn't the parent I wanted to be,' this episode is for you.

In this episode:

• Why we snap at the people we love most
• The hidden link between stress, perfectionism and parental rage
• How to spot your personal warning signs before you boil over
• The power of repair after losing your temper
• Why rest isn't selfish – it's essential
• How to model healthy emotions and apologies for your children
• Simple ways to lower the pressure and parent with more self-compassion

Anna's book, How to Stop Snapping at the People You Love (As Well As the Ones You Don't): A Compassionate Guide to Rage, Regulation and Repair, is available from 2 July 2026.

Read more expert advice at Netmums and join the conversation on social @Netmums.

JB and Louise would love to hear your parenting stories, questions and dilemmas. Email thenetmumspodcast@netmums.com and you could be featured in a future episode.

The Netmums Podcast is brought to you by Netmums, trusted by parents, backed by experts.

This episode is sponsored by M&S Thank You Teacher Gift Cards. You can buy gift cards in store or e-gift cards online.

Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative.

Anna Mathur/Picture credit: Oliver Spencer 

This week on The Netmums Podcast, Louise Burke and JB Gill are joined by Gladiator star, author and dad-of-two Matt Morsia for a thought-provoking conversation about raising healthy, resilient and active children.

Best known to millions as Legend on Gladiators, Matt opens up about the career-ending injury that shattered his Olympic ambitions, the resilience that helped him rebuild, and how becoming a parent has shaped his outlook on health, fitness and family life.

Matt shares why he believes physical activity deserves the same attention as academic achievement, explains the habits he thinks set children up for long-term health, and tackles some of the biggest debates facing parents today – from childhood obesity to food, exercise and the pressure to get it all right.

The conversation also explores the importance of role modelling healthy behaviours, encouraging children to try different activities, and helping them develop perseverance without pressure.

Whether you're a fitness fanatic or simply trying to get the family moving a little more, this episode is packed with practical takeaways and plenty of food for thought.

In this episode:

• Why resilience matters more than talent
• Should PE be treated as seriously as literacy in schools?
• How parents can encourage activity without creating pressure
• The reality of screen time and inactive lifestyles
• Why role modelling matters more than lecturing
• The simple changes families can make to become more active
• Creating a positive relationship with food and exercise

Matt's new book, FITNESS UNLOCKED, published by Sphere available now in Paperback, audio and ebook

Read more expert advice at Netmums and join the conversation on social @Netmums.

JB and Louise would love to hear your parenting stories, questions and dilemmas. Email thenetmumspodcast@netmums.com and you could be featured in a future episode.

The Netmums Podcast is brought to you by Netmums, trusted by parents, backed by experts.

This episode is sponsored M&S Teacher Gift Cards. You can buy cards or e-gift cards online.

Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative.

Picture credit: Nicky Johnston

This week on The Netmums Podcast, Louise Burke and JB Gill are joined by World Cup 2026 presenter and mum of one Kelly Somers for an honest conversation about returning to work after having a baby, rebuilding confidence, and navigating the juggle of motherhood and career.

As one of the UK's leading sports presenters, Kelly has fronted some of football's biggest programmes, from Match of the Day and Football Focus to major international tournaments. But becoming a mum brought a whole new challenge: balancing a demanding career with the realities of family life.

Kelly opens up about the fears she carried for years after being diagnosed with endometriosis and PCOS, and why becoming a mother felt like something she could never take for granted. She reflects on returning to work after maternity leave, rebuilding her career confidence, and navigating the challenges that motherhood can throw your way when life doesn't go exactly to plan.

With the FIFA World Cup taking her Stateside this summer, Kelly shares how she's making family life work while reporting on one of the biggest sporting events in the world. From travelling with a toddler to relying on an ‘army’ of family support, she offers a refreshingly honest insight into what modern working motherhood really looks like.

In this episode:
• Returning to work after having a baby and rebuilding career confidence
• How motherhood changed Kelly's perspective on ambition and success
• Living with endometriosis and PCOS and becoming a mum against the odds
• Navigating guilt, identity and the pressure to do it all
• Why asking for help is one of the most important parenting skills

Whether you're preparing to return to work after maternity leave, questioning how to balance career and family life, or simply trying to keep all the plates spinning, this episode is packed with reassurance, practical advice and a reminder that there's no one right way to do motherhood.

Read more expert advice at Netmums.com and join the conversation on social @Netmums.
JB and Louise also want to hear your parenting stories, questions and dilemmas. Email thenetmumspodcast@netmums.com and you could be part of a future episode.

The Netmums Podcast is brought to you by Netmums – trusted by parents, backed by experts.

Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative.

This week on The Netmums Podcast, Louise Burke and JB Gill are joined by TV presenter, podcaster and ADHD UK ambassador Sam Thompson for an honest conversation about ADHD and autism, and why understanding our children matters more than ever.

Sam was diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 30 after years of feeling different, overwhelmed and misunderstood. In this episode, he opens up about the relief of finally understanding how his brain works, why he spent years believing he was simply the ‘naughty kid’, and how that diagnosis helped him forgive himself for struggles he'd carried since childhood.

Drawing on insights from his new book, You, Me and ADHD, Sam shares practical advice for parents navigating ADHD at home, from handling big emotions and meltdowns to helping children recognise their strengths and build confidence.

Together, Louise, JB and Sam explore how ADHD can show up in everyday family life, why behaviour is often communication, and how parents can move from frustration to understanding.

In this episode:

• The hidden impact of labels like ‘naughty’, ‘lazy’ and ‘disruptive’
• What ADHD actually looks like beyond the stereotypes
• How to support children through overwhelm, meltdowns and big feelings
• Why understanding emotions is often more important than managing behaviour
• The surprising strengths and talents that can come with ADHD
• Practical ways to help neurodivergent children thrive at home and at school
• Why ADHD isn't something to fix – it's something to understand

Whether you're parenting a child with ADHD, supporting a neurodivergent family member, or simply want to better understand the children in your life, this is a warm, reassuring and incredibly helpful conversation packed with practical takeaways.

Sam’s book, You, Me & ADHD is out now, £9.99 (Puffin books)

Read more expert advice at Netmums.com and join the conversation on social @Netmums.

JB and Louise also want to hear your parenting stories, questions and dilemmas. Email thenetmumspodcast@netmums.com and you could be part of a future episode.

The Netmums Podcast is brought to you by Netmums – trusted by parents, backed by experts.

Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative.

In this powerful live episode of The Netmums Podcast recorded at The Baby Show, Atomic Kitten star Liz McClarnon-Cho opens up about her emotional road to motherhood after eight rounds of IVF, two miscarriages and years of uncertainty.

Now a first-time mum at 44 to baby Alexander, Liz speaks candidly about the emotional toll of fertility treatment, why she stepped away from social media during IVF and the moment she finally saw a positive pregnancy test after believing parenthood might never happen.

Joined by hosts JB Gill and Louise Burke, Liz shares what it was really like becoming a mum later in life – from difficult pregnancies and pelvic girdle pain to the overwhelming reality of those first newborn weeks.

In this episode, Liz discusses:
• Her eight-round IVF journey and coping with repeated failed cycles
• Miscarriage, grief and the emotional impact of fertility struggles
• Why IVF can feel isolating and misunderstood
• The moment she discovered she was pregnant
• Becoming a first-time mum at 44
• Stepping away from social media during difficult times
• Newborn life, anxiety and leaving the house for the first time
• Parenting after infertility and learning to trust herself
• Raising baby Alexander with both Liverpool and Korean heritage
• Why motherhood now feels like ‘being given the world.’

Liz also reflects on how her relationship with husband Peter Cho who helped carry her through some of the darkest moments – and why becoming parents together has changed everything.

This is an honest, emotional and reassuring conversation for anyone navigating IVF, miscarriage, fertility struggles or the realities of becoming a new parent.

🎧 Subscribe to The Netmums Podcast for more real parenting conversations, expert advice and celebrity interviews.

Read more expert advice at Netmums.com and join the conversation on social @Netmums.

Got a parenting question or dilemma? Email us at thenetmumspodcast@netmums.com – we’d love to hear from you.

The Netmums Podcast – backed by experts, trusted by parents.

As your children grow into teenagers, knowing when to step back can be one of the hardest parts of parenting.

This week on The Netmums Podcast, Louise Burke and JB Gill are joined by Boyzone’s Shane Lynch and his wife Sheena, from ITV2’s The Real Housewives of Cheshire, as they share what family life really looks like behind the scenes while raising two teenage daughters.

From earning their own money to finding their own path, Shane and Sheena explain how they’re raising their girls to stay grounded – even while growing up in the spotlight. They talk about social media, teenage ambition and why boundaries still matter, even when they’re pushed.

They also share their honest take on the ‘nepo baby’ debate, and the reality behind the assumptions people make about their family life.

At the heart of the conversation is that shift so many parents recognise – moving from being hands-on to learning to let go. Sheena describes the hardest part of that transition as “fear”, admitting she’s the worrier at home, while Shane takes a more relaxed approach. Together, they reflect on what it really means to trust your teenagers, even when it’s not easy.

The couple also open up about their relationship, including their separation during lockdown and how they found their way back to each other. It’s an honest look at balancing marriage, work and family life, and what it takes to stay connected through change.

There are lighter moments too – from raising “girlie girls” and teenage humour to the reality of what comes next, including the thought of becoming empty nesters.

Warm, relatable and full of real-life takeaways, this episode is a reminder that raising teenagers isn’t about control – it’s about guidance, trust and, sometimes, having the courage to let go.
In this episode:

• Raising grounded teens – independence, work ethic and values
• Their thoughts on the ‘nepo baby’ debate
• Letting go and trusting your teenagers to find their own way
• Social media, smartphones and setting boundaries
• Supporting ambition without creating entitlement
• Parenting girls and navigating teenage dynamics
• Keeping your relationship strong through change
• Therapy, communication and modern family life
• Honest advice for parents – from early years to teens

The Real Housewives of Cheshire is back on Tuesdays at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX from next week

Read more expert advice at Netmums.com and join the conversation on social @Netmums.

Got a parenting question or dilemma? Email us at thenetmumspodcast@netmums.com – we’d love to hear from you.

The Netmums Podcast – backed by experts, trusted by parents.

Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

This week on The Netmums Podcast, Louise and JB are joined by Rosie Kelly Smith, for an insightful and heartfelt conversation about the realities of new motherhood.
Rosie shares her experiences navigating the early days with her 18-month-old daughter, Billie, and reflects on the overwhelming pressure new parents face from societal expectations and the deluge of advice. 
Rosie discusses the generational shifts in parenting, sharing how her grandmother and mother approached motherhood and the wisdom that has been passed down through the family.
In this episode, Rosie opens up about her struggles with postpartum anxiety and the often-unspoken challenges that come with being a new mum. She discusses the impact of social media on parenting and the need for kindness towards ourselves.

In this episode:
- The overwhelming pressure of parenting advice and societal expectations
- Rosie’s journey through postpartum anxiety 
- Reflections on motherhood across generations
- The impact of social media on new parents
- Trusting your instincts and embracing imperfection in parenting
- The joy and challenges of navigating life with a toddler

This episode of The Netmums Podcast is brought to you by Aldi Mamia.
Read more expert advice at Netmums.com and join the conversation on social @Netmums.

JB and Louise also want to hear your parenting stories, questions and dilemmas! So please share them with us at thenetmumspodcast@netmums.com and we can bring you into the conversations that matter on The Netmums Podcast.

This podcast is brought to you by Netmums: backed by experts, trusted by parents. 

Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

What does parenting really look like when you’re raising seven children – across completely different ages and stages – and learning, in real time, when to hold on and when to let go?

This week on The Netmums Podcast, Louise Burke and JB Gill are joined by Paris Fury – mum of seven, businesswoman and star of Netflix’s At Home with the Furys – for an honest, warm and revealing conversation about modern family life.

Paris opens up about the organised chaos of a busy home, the juggle of raising children at every stage of childhood, and the emotional shift that comes as your role as a parent begins to change. From hands-on parenting with younger children to stepping back and giving independence to older ones, she shares how family life evolves – and how you grow with your children through it.

The conversation also explores some of the more emotional sides of parenting. Paris reflects on her eldest daughter Venezuela’s engagement at 16 – a milestone she supports, having married young herself – while admitting that ‘letting go’ is one of the hardest parts of motherhood. She also speaks candidly about raising teenagers in today’s world, navigating social media pressures, and instilling confidence and individuality in her children.

Warm, relatable and full of honest insight, this episode is a reminder that whether you’ve got one child or seven… parenting is a constant journey of learning, adapting and, sometimes, letting go.

In this episode:
- The daily chaos and joy of raising seven children
- How to balance parenting with personal ambitions
- Paris’ eldest daughter Venezuela's journey to married life in her teens
- The importance of instilling confidence in and individuality in her children
- Paris’s thoughts on body image and social media influence
- Paris’ wellness routine and how she finds moments for herself

This episode of The Netmums Podcast is brought to you by Aldi Mamia.

Read more expert advice at Netmums.com and join the conversation on social @Netmums.

JB and Louise also want to hear your parenting stories, questions and dilemmas! So please share them with us at thenetmumspodcast@netmums.com and we can bring you into the conversations that matter on The Netmums Podcast.

This podcast is brought to you by Netmums: backed by experts, trusted by parents. 

Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

Trigger warning: Discussions of baby loss.

This week on The Netmums Podcast, Louise and JB are joined by Laura Adlington – the Great British Bake Off finalist, body positive activist and new mum – for a very special episode recorded live at The Baby Show in London in front of an audience of parents and parents-to-be.

Laura has openly shared her nine-year pregnancy journey, calling it a ‘long and lonely road’. 

She tells us about infertility, IVF and the emotional toll of trying to conceive for so long. And after the joy of welcoming her baby George late last year, Laura has most recently revealed her unexpected emotional aftermath: the identity shift, the body changes, and the not-so-quiet ‘now what?’ feeling that can follow a long-awaited dream.

The conversation moves beyond the highlight reel of motherhood, as Laura talks honestly about the reality of the early newborn months – from sleep deprivation and relationship strain to mum guilt, identity shifts and the pressure many women feel around postpartum bodies.

Louise and JB also reflect on the challenges many parents face when adjusting to life with a newborn, and why honest conversations about parenting are so important.

In this episode:

• Laura’s nine-year fertility journey and the emotional realities of IVF
• What it really feels like when the baby you’ve longed for finally arrives
• The sleep deprivation and relationship challenges of the early newborn months
• Mum guilt, intrusive thoughts and why it's okay to find motherhood hard
• The pressure to “bounce back” after pregnancy and navigating body changes

• Identity shifts and learning to balance being yourself and being a parent

This episode of The Netmums Podcast was recorded live at The Baby Show in London. Expect a powerful, honest and entertaining new parenting conversation with Laura Adlington.

Read more expert help on Netmums.com and join the conversation on socials @Netmums.

JB and Louise also want to hear your parenting stories, questions and dilemmas! Please share them with us at thenetmumspodcast@netmums.com and we may bring them into the conversations that matter on The Netmums Podcast.

This podcast is brought to you by Netmums: backed by experts, trusted by parents.

In this episode of The Netmums Podcast, Louise and JB welcome Dr. Billy Garvey, a developmental paediatrician and author of the insightful book 10 Things to Know About Your Child's Mental Health. 
This chat covers the crucial topic of children's mental health, particularly focusing on anxiety and how it manifests in children of different ages.
Dr. Garvey shares invaluable advice on recognising signs of anxiety in children and the differences in how boys and girls may express their feelings. He discusses the importance of creating a nurturing environment that fosters emotional security, emphasising the need for parents to engage in both co-regulation and self-regulation to help their children navigate their emotions effectively.
The conversation also touches on the pressures of modern parenting, the significance of unconditional love, and the role of communication in fostering a strong parent-child relationship. 

In this episode:
• Recognising anxiety in children and its impact on behaviour
• The differences in how boys and girls experience anxiety
• The role of co-regulation and self-regulation in emotional development
• Practical tips for parents to support their child's mental health
• The importance of creating a nurturing environment and the concept of 'sanctuaries'

This episode of The Netmums Podcast is brought to you by Aldi Mamia.

Read more expert help on Netmums.com and join the conversation on socials @Netmums.

JB and Louise also want to hear your parenting stories, questions and dilemmas! So please share them with us at thenetmumspodcast@netmums.com and we can bring you into the conversations that matter on The Netmums Podcast.

This podcast is brought to you by Netmums: backed by experts, trusted by parents. 

Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

On this week’s Netmums podcast, Louise Burke and JB Gill are joined by olympic gold medallist and mum of three, Rebecca Adlington, for a very honest conversation about parenting, baby loss and learning to keep going.

Rebecca talks openly about experiencing two miscarriages, the counselling that helped her and her husband through it, and the anxiety that can come with expecting a rainbow baby. She also shares the small things that helped her family cope – including giving her bump a nickname, ‘jellytot’, so the whole family could bond with the baby.

Alongside the emotional side of parenting, Rebecca also explains why learning to swim is a life skill, not just a sport – and why she believes three to five years old is the ideal age for children to start proper swimming lessons.

The episode also covers the real challenges parents face around swimming – from nervous children and reluctant swimmers, to the moment many girls start to feel self-conscious about their bodies in swimwear as they get older.

In this episode we talk about:
• pregnancy after loss and the reality of a rainbow baby
• how partners can support mums through miscarriage and grief
• why counselling helped Rebecca and her husband process loss
• the importance of teaching children to swim
• the best age to start swimming lessons for kids
• helping children build confidence in the water
• when body image can start to affect girls and swimming

This episode of The Netmums Podcast is brought to you by Aldi Mamia.

Read more expert help on Netmums.com and join the conversation on socials @Netmums.

JB and Louise also want to hear your parenting stories, questions and dilemmas! So please share them with us at thenetmumspodcast@netmums.com and we can bring you into the conversations that matter on The Netmums Podcast.

This podcast is brought to you by Netmums: backed by experts, trusted by parents. 

Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

This week on The Netmums Podcast, JB and Louise are joined by the most dynamic mother-daughter duo on TV, The Traitors stars Roxy and Judy Wilson. They share their remarkable journey from adoption to motherhood; Roxy opens up about her experiences growing up in foster care and how her relationship with Judy has shaped her life.
With Roxy expecting her first child and Judy preparing to be a grandmother for the twelfth time, the conversation covers the joys and challenges of parenting, the importance of stability, and the unconditional love that defines their bond.

In this episode:
- Roxy reflects on her childhood and the impact of being adopted by Judy.
- Insights into the nurturing environment that Judy created for Roxy and her siblings.
- The emotional journey of becoming a mother.
- A frank discussion about fostering, adoption, and the need for more foster carers in the UK.
- Tips for new parents navigating the early days of parenthood.

This episode of The Netmums Podcast is brought to you by Aldi Mamia.

Read more expert help on Netmums.com and join the conversation on socials @Netmums.

JB and Louise also want to hear your parenting stories, questions and dilemmas! So please share them with us at thenetmumspodcast@netmums.com and we can bring you into the conversations that matter on The Netmums Podcast.

This podcast is brought to you by Netmums: backed by experts, trusted by parents. 

Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

In this episode of The Netmums Podcast, JB Gill and Louise Burke dive into the often unspoken role of the ‘default parent’ (the one who knows the school schedule, the birthday party details, and the ins and outs of family life). 

Joining them is Lou Beckett, writer, former teacher, and mother of two – and also wife of comedian Rob Beckett. Her new book, Lessons from a Default Parent, sheds light on the realities of being the one who takes on the lion’s share of the parenting load.

Lou shares her personal motherhood journey, discussing the gradual realisation of her default parent status and the complexities that come with it – and how to survive. 

In this episode:
- The emotional and practical challenges of being the default parent
- Insights into the dynamics of parenting roles and the impact on relationships
- Plenty of laughs and relatable stories from Lou's experiences
- The importance of communication and understanding in co-parenting

Grab your copy of Lessons from a Default Parent by Lou Beckett, available now.

This episode of The Netmums Podcast is brought to you by Aldi Mamia.

Read more expert help on Netmums.com and join the conversation on socials @Netmums.

JB and Louise also want to hear your parenting stories, questions and dilemmas! So please share them with us at thenetmumspodcast@netmums.com and we can bring you into the conversations that matter on The Netmums Podcast.

This podcast is brought to you by Netmums: backed by experts, trusted by parents. 

Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

In this episode of The Netmums Podcast, JB and Louise delve into the complexities of parenting and the often overwhelming mental load that comes with it. Joined by journalist and TV presenter Ranvir Singh, a familiar face from Good Morning Britain, they explore the challenges of juggling family life as a single parent while maintaining a successful career.

In this episode:
- The realities of balancing work and family commitments, especially during busy school terms.
- Ranvir shares her personal experiences as a single mother and how she navigates her son's growing independence.
- The importance of being present for your children and how to manage feelings of guilt.
- Honest discussions about the pressures of parenting, including the challenges of sleepovers and social dynamics at school.
- Tips for dealing with overwhelm and the significance of focusing on what truly matters each day.

This episode is packed with relatable insights and practical advice for anyone struggling to find balance as parents navigating increasingly hectic lives.

Connect with us on socials @Netmums and visit our website: netmums.com

This podcast is brought to you by Netmums: backed by experts, trusted by parents. 

Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

**Sensitive content warning: This conversation explores some very serious themes, including self-harm, depression and sexual references. Please take care while listening

We’re back for a brand new series of The Netmums Podcast! Meet your new parent hosts, TV presenter and JLS singer, JB Gill, and Netmums Editorial Director Louise Burke.

JB and Louise are kicking off Series 18 with one of the hotly debated parenting topics right now: the issue of children’s screen time and the social media ban. How can we as parents tackle screen time and online use while raising a happy family?

We’re joined by renowned social psychologist and author Jonathan Haidt, who helps us explore the impact of smartphones on childhood, the difficult conversations parents face with their kids around social media use, and practical strategies for resetting family digital habits.

In this episode of our podcast made by parents for parents:
- The challenges of managing screen time in busy family lives – ‘bad’ screentime versus ‘good’ screentime
- Insights into the effects of social media on children’s mental health
- Practical tips for creating a balanced digital environment at home
- The importance of play and outdoor activities in childhood development
- Real-life stories from parents navigating these issues

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking for support when it comes to parenting your child online. It also provides you with expert insight if you’re looking to gain a better understanding of the current digital landscape such as the impact of social media and its effect on children today.

The Amazing Generation by Jonathan Haidt and Catherine Price is out now at all good booksellers.

Read more expert help on Netmums.com and join the conversation on socials @Netmums.

We also want to hear your parenting stories, questions and dilemmas! So please share them with us at thenetmumspodcast@netmums.com and we can bring you into the conversations that matter on The Netmums Podcast.

This podcast is brought to you by Netmums: backed by experts, trusted by parents. 

Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

In this sponsored episode of the Netmums podcast with Johnson's Baby, we tackle the “Witching Hour” - that notorious time of day when babies seem to be at their crankiest. Wendy Golledge is joined by experts Dr. Punam Krishan, GP, author, and Strictly star, and Sarah Joy Owen, an NHS midwife and mum of three, to share practical strategies and advice for parents.

*Sensitive content warning - a conversation around baby loss features in this episode

In this final episode of Cloud 9, the Netmums podcast miniseries brought to you by Aldi Mamia, we are thrilled to welcome Charlotte Dawson, a familiar face from your social media feed and TV screen. Charlotte, mum to three little ones, Noah, Jude, and baby Gigi, shares with us her journey through the whirlwind of motherhood and how she juggles a toddler, a preschooler, and a newborn!

In this episode:
- Charlotte's experience with pregnancy and childbirth, including her unfortunate miscarriage after her first Noah. 
- The importance of community support and the emotional load of motherhood
- Navigating the pressures of social media while being a mum
- Tips for finding moments of self-care amidst the chaos

Enjoyed this one? There are six episodes in the series, featuring honest conversations with mums you know and love – Olivia Bowen, Lacey Turner and Katie Thistleton included. Happy binge-listening!

This episode is sponsored by Aldi Mamia, the award-winning baby range loved by parents.
Netmums – where real parents share the chaos and the comfort, so you know you’re not in it alone. Follow us on socials @Netmums and website:netmums.com 
Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

In this episode of Cloud 9, the Netmums podcast miniseries brought to you by Aldi Mamia, we are joined by Ferne McCann, known for her unfiltered take on motherhood. Ferne, a proud mum of two, shares her journey of raising her daughters, Sunday and Finty, navigating the joys and challenges of parenting at different stages. She opens up about her experience as a girl mum, the dynamics between her daughters, and her breastfeeding journey.

In this episode:
- Balancing the demands of two different stages of childhood
- Ferne’s personal experience of breastfeeding and the emotional bond it creates
- The importance of therapy in shaping her parenting style
- Navigating the complexities of parenting with a partner versus flying solo

There are six brilliant episodes in this special series featuring some of our best loved celebrity mums including Olivia Bowen, Charlotte Dawson and Katie Thistleton. Each episode delves into different aspects of early motherhood – go check them out. Enjoy!

This episode is sponsored by Aldi Mamia, the award-winning baby range loved by parents.
Netmums – where real parents share the chaos and the comfort, so you know you’re not in it alone. Follow us on socials @Netmums and website:netmums.com 
Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

Welcome to a brand new miniseries of the Netmums Podcast: Cloud 9 is brought to you by the award-winning baby range Aldi Mamia. Hosted by Louise Burke, the editorial director of Netmums, this series is designed for those quiet, early hours when you’re feeding or rocking your little one and feeling like you’re the only one awake. Join us as we delve into the highs, lows, and everything in between of new motherhood.

In this episode we’re joined by actress, mum of three, and all-round lovely human Lacey Turner, best known for her nearly two decades on EastEnders. Lacey recently welcomed her third baby, a little girl named Gipsy Olive, and she joins us to chat about life in her busy household; the beautiful chaos, the sleepless nights, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. Lacey opens up about the reality of motherhood with three small children and her decision to step back from acting. She reflects on mum guilt, finding moments of calm, and the importance of carving out time for herself amidst the noise of family life (and the chickens!).

In this episode:

• The joy and chaos of welcoming a third baby
• How Lacey manages sleepless nights and the juggle of three little ones
• Finding small, meaningful moments of calm and connection
• Letting go of guilt and embracing “good enough” parenting
• The importance of time outdoors, community, and self-care
• Why Lacey chose to step away from EastEnders to focus on family life
  
  

There are six brilliant episodes in this special series featuring some of your favourite celebrity mums including Olivia Bowen, Lacey Turner, actress Lucy Fallon and Charlotte Dawson. Each episode brings a completely different kind of conversation about early motherhood – new voices, new experiences, and new truths, all of which reminds us that there’s no one way to do this.

This episode is sponsored by Aldi Mamia, the award-winning baby range loved by parents.
Netmums – where real parents share the chaos and the comfort, so you know you’re not in it alone. Follow us on socials @Netmums and website:netmums.com 

Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

In this episode of Cloud 9, the Netmums podcast miniseries brought to you by Aldi Mamia, we are joined by Katie Thistleton, Radio One presenter and CBeebies Parenting Helpline host, who shares her journey into motherhood with her baby boy, Reuben, born in March 2025. Katie opens up about the beautiful yet challenging moments of new parenthood, from the joy of those first laughs to the harsh realities of sleep deprivation and the unexpected emergency surgery she faced just weeks after giving birth.

In this episode:
- The highs and lows of early motherhood
- Navigating the challenges of sleep deprivation
- Dealing with postnatal depression and mental health
- The importance of community and support networks
- Embracing the new normal and redefining identity as a parent

Katie's honesty and warmth provide comfort and reassurance to new parents, reminding us all that we are not alone in this journey. 

There are six brilliant episodes in this special series featuring some of your favourite celebrity mums including Olivia Bowen, Lacey Turner, actress Lucy Fallon and Charlotte Dawson. Each pod delves into different aspects of early motherhood – they are all conversations that are relatable, comforting and entertaining. Enjoy! 

This episode is sponsored by Aldi Mamia, the award-winning baby range loved by parents.
Netmums – where real parents share the chaos and the comfort, so you know you’re not in it alone. Follow us on socials @Netmums and website:netmums.com 
Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

Welcome to this brand new miniseries of the Netmums Podcast: Cloud 9, brought to you by Aldi Mamia. Hosted by Louise Burke, the Editorial Director of Netmums, this series is designed for those quiet, early hours when you’re feeding or rocking your little one and possibly feeling like you’re the only one awake. Join us as we delve into the highs, lows, and everything in between of new motherhood.

In this episode we’re joined by the fabulous Lucy Fallon, the award-wining actress from Coronation Street and a mum of two little ones. Lucy, 30, shares her journey of navigating motherhood with a newborn and a toddler, revealing the beautiful chaos that comes with welcoming her second child, Nancy, earlier this year. Lucy opens up about the realities of life as a mum of two, the emotional rollercoaster of those early days, and the juggle between parenting and her career. She shares her experiences with guilt, the importance of community support, and the joy of witnessing the bond forming between her children.

In this episode:

• The challenges and joys of having children close in age
• Strategies for managing the chaos of everyday life with two little ones
• How to find moments of self-care amidst the demands of motherhood
• The significance of community and connection with other parents
• Lucy’s reflections on the pressures of ‘bouncing back’ to feeling ‘me’ again after childbirth

There are six brilliant episodes in this special series featuring some of your favourite celebrity mums including Olivia Bowen, Lacey Turner, Katie Thistleton and Charlotte Dawson. Each pod delves into different aspects of early motherhood – they are all conversations that are relatable, comforting and entertaining. Enjoy! 

This episode is sponsored by Aldi Mamia, the award-winning baby range loved by parents.
Netmums – where real parents share the chaos and the comfort, so you know you’re not in it alone. Follow us on socials @Netmums and website:netmums.com 
Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

Welcome to this brand new mini-series of the Netmums Podcast: Cloud 9 is brought to you by Aldi Mamia. Hosted by Netmums Editorial Director Louise Burke, this series is designed for those quiet, early hours when you’re feeding or rocking your little one and feeling like you’re the only one awake. Join us as we delve into the highs, lows, and everything in between of new motherhood.

Today we welcome Olivia Bowen, a very familiar face for Love Island fans and star of ITV series Parenthood, alongside husband Alex. Olivia shares her journey through motherhood, including the recent arrival of her second child, baby Siena. She opens up about her traumatic birth experience and discusses the emotional complexities of postpartum recovery, including baby loss, birth trauma, and postnatal depression.

In this episode:
- Olivia’s candid reflections on her birth experience and recovery
- How she navigates the transition from one to two children
- The impact of postpartum anxiety and depression on her journey
- Strategies for managing the chaos of motherhood
- Finding joy in the small moments with her children

*Sensitive content warning – this episode features discussions on baby loss, birth trauma and postnatal depression.

This episode is sponsored by Aldi Mamia, the award-winning baby range loved by parents.

Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting tips, community support, engaging content.
Website: netmums.com / Instagram/TikTok/Facebook: @netmums 
Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

This week on The Netmums Podcast, Wendy Golledge and Alison Perry welcome Capital Breakfast’s Sian Welby. Sian, a devoted mum to one-year-old Ruby, shares her journey of balancing motherhood with a high-profile career, and the joys and challenges that come with it.
In this chat Sian opens up about the realities of parenting, the pressures of returning to work shortly after giving birth, and the importance of maintaining her identity amidst the chaos of motherhood. She reflects on her own experiences, including her recent interview with the iconic Taylor Swift, revealing how these moments shape her perspective as both a parent and a professional.

In this episode:

• The challenges of balancing a high-profile career with motherhood
• How to navigate the pressures of returning to work after maternity leave
• The importance of self-care for parents and caregivers
• Finding joy in the small moments with your children
• Encouraging open conversations about parenting roles in relationships

Sian's refreshing honesty and humour shine through as she discusses the complexities of modern parenting, offering relatable insights for all parents juggling similar struggles.

Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting tips, community support, engaging content: Website: netmums.com / Instagram: @netmums 
Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

This week on The Netmums Podcast, Wendy Golledge and Alison Perry are joined by the remarkable Dame Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand and author of the memoir A Different Kind of Power. In this episode, Jacinda shares her unique experiences of balancing motherhood with the demands of leading a country, and parenting while in the public eye.
Jacinda opens up about the emotional juggle of early motherhood, the challenges of maternity leave, and the guilt that often accompanies working parents. She discusses her new picture book, Mum's Busy Work, which addresses the struggles parents face in managing work and family life, and how to communicate these challenges to children.

In this episode:

• The realities of being a working mother in a high-profile role
• Managing ‘Mum guilt’ and expectations as a parent
• The importance of sharing the parental load between partners
• How to maintain values and kindness in parenting
• Advice for new parents returning to work after maternity leave

Jacinda’s book, Mum's Busy Work, is an inspiring and heartwarming book about the relationship between a working mum and her daughter.

This episode is sponsored by Aldi Mamia

Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting tips, community support, engaging content: Website: netmums.com / Instagram: @netmums 
Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

This week on The Netmums Podcast, Wendy Golledge and Alison Perry are joined by Joeli Brearley, campaigner, author, and founder of Pregnant, Then Screwed. This episode explores the challenges of juggling motherhood with a career while tackling the systemic issues surrounding maternity discrimination.
Joeli shares her personal journey from experiencing pregnancy discrimination to launching a movement that has shaped policies and attitudes towards working parents. She discusses her new venture, Growth Spurt, designed to support parents as they navigate the return to work, providing practical resources and peer support.

In this episode:
- Joeli’s experience with pregnancy discrimination and its impact
- The importance of peer-to-peer support for parents
- Understanding the motherhood penalty and its implications
- Joeli’s vision for accessible childcare and its societal benefits
- The significance of having open dialogues with children about growing up

This episode is sponsored by Aldi Mamia. 
Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting tips, community support, engaging content: Website: netmums.com / Instagram: @netmums 
Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

This week on The Netmums Podcast, Wendy Golledge and Alison Perry are joined by A&E doctor turned mental health campaigner, author and Stompcast host Dr Alex George. Together, they dig into what young people are up against right now, how tiny daily routines can build big resilience, and why honest, calm conversations at home matter more than perfect fixes.
Dr Alex talks through “mental fitness,” the case for more wellbeing in schools, and his new children’s book Happy Habits, which helps kids build small, realistic routines for happier, healthier days. (Plus: Alison’s “raffle to buy a toy” saga becomes a teachable moment on dopamine!)
In this episode:

• Why schools should balance grades with wellbeing (and life skills like money basics)
• The “life audit”: a 5-minute way to choose the one habit that moves the needle
• Simple family habits that stick (hello, 10-minute morning nature walk)
• How to talk to children about grief, worry and eating disorders without “fixing”
• Mental fitness vs. mental health: building resilience and capacity for joy
• Alex on ADHD & OCD: what diagnosis changed and what “normal” even means
• Boundaries with reality TV and choosing goals that align with your values
• A sneak peek at Alex’s next book, Am I Normal?, coming in January

This episode is proudly sponsored by Aldi Mamia. 
Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting tips, community support, engaging content: Website: netmums.com / Instagram: @netmums 
Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

This week on The Netmums Podcast, Wendy Golledge and Alison Perry are joined by the insightful author and podcaster, Gemma Styles. Together, they delve into the realities of motherhood, neurodiversity, and the importance of self-compassion amidst the chaos of parenting.

Gemma shares her journey as a new mum, discussing the challenges of navigating toddlerhood while managing her own mental health and ADHD. The conversation touches on the significance of building a supportive village, the joys and trials of second-hand shopping, and the impact of social media on parenting.

In this episode Gemma also shares some details with us about her partnership with Pura. Pura, the eco-conscious baby care brand. Pura’s wipes and nappies are toxin-free, allergy-approved, and designed with less plastic and more sustainable manufacturing. Gemma tells us all about Pura’s exciting nappy recycling initiative which currently recycles 60 million nappies annually in Wales, and the brand’s large-scale trial which is currently underway in Bristol.

In this episode:- 

• The realities of juggling motherhood and personal projects
• Building a supportive community while parenting
• Managing mental health and ADHD as a new parent
• Gemma’s partnership with Pura 
• Exploring the benefits of second-hand shopping
• Setting boundaries with social media and parenting
• Understanding the phases of parenting and self-compassion
• Eco-friendly practices in motherhood

Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting tips, community support, engaging content: Website: netmums.com / Instagram: @netmums 
Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

In this episode of the Netmums podcast, hosts Wendy Golledge and Alison Perry discuss the often-overlooked issue of stress and its impact on parenting and self-care. Joined by fitness expert Shakira Akabusi, they explore the misconceptions surrounding postnatal bodies, the importance of pelvic floor health, and how movement can serve as medicine for mental well-being.

Shakira shares her personal experiences with motherhood and mental health, offering valuable insights for parents navigating the challenges of raising children while maintaining their health. Tune in for practical tips on how to prioritise self-care and foster a healthy mindset!

In this episode:

• The impact of stress on parenting
• Managing kids' emotions during a move
• Misconceptions about postnatal bodies
• Importance of pelvic floor health
• The role of movement in mental health
• Celebrity culture and body image
• Shakira's app and resources for parents

This episode is proudly sponsored by Aldi UK. 

Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting tips, community support, engaging content: Website: netmums.com / Instagram: @netmums 
Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

In this episode of the Netmums Podcast, Stella Creasy, a Labour MP, discusses the challenges of balancing her political career with motherhood. She reflects on personal milestones, the importance of maternity leave, and the need for better childcare support. 

Stella also addresses the motherhood penalty, online abuse faced by women in politics, and advocates for changes in policies related to special educational needs and period poverty. The conversation emphasizes the importance of amplifying the voices of parents in political discussions and creating a more inclusive environment for all families.

In this episode:

• Navigating Parenting and Politics
• The Transition to School Life
• The Reality of Being an MP and a Parent
• Campaigning for Maternity Leave and Representation
• The Motherhood Penalty and Workplace Equality
• Flexible Working and Parental Leave
• The Impact of Online Abuse on Parenting and Politics
• Special Educational Needs and Early Intervention
• Childcare Accessibility and Universal Systems
• Encouraging Future Generations in Politics

This episode is proudly sponsored by Aldi UK.

Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting tips, community support, engaging content: Website: netmums.com / Instagram: @netmums 
Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

This week on The Netmums Podcast, Alison & Wendy are thrilled to welcome the beloved Davina McCall, a true national treasure, and her co-author, midwife Marley Henry, to discuss their new book, Birthing. Fair warning - this episode gets emotional! The chat gets into the realities of conception, pregnancy, birth, and the often-overlooked postpartum period.

Davina shares her personal journey through motherhood, from the challenges of the fourth trimester to the importance of listening to her own needs, she emphasises the significance of love and boundaries in parenting. Midwife Marley Henry enters the chat half way through and adds her expertise as a midwife, offering invaluable advice to expectant parents about the birthing process and the importance of being informed about all available options.

In this episode: 

• The journey of writing Birthing and the motivation behind it
• Understanding the realities of labour and the importance of bodily autonomy
• How to navigate the fourth trimester and the significance of self-care
• Real-life birth stories and the lessons learned from them
• Trusting your intuition as a parent and the importance of boundaries
• Advice for new parents on managing expectations and seeking help

Don't miss out on the chance to grab a copy of Birthing for a comprehensive guide to your pregnancy journey.

Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting tips, community support, engaging content: Website: netmums.com / Instagram: @netmums 
Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

This week on The Netmums Podcast, Alison & Wendy are joined by TV presenter, qualified life coach and therapist Anna Williamson (Celebs Go Dating, LuAnna podcast), for an honest chat about modern motherhood. Anna opens up about perinatal anxiety, postnatal depression, bonding struggles, and why asking for help is strength, not shame. She also talks about her Channel 4 series, The Great British Phone Switch, and her chart-topping podcast, The Affair, exploring why infidelity fascinates us and how some couples come back stronger.

In this episode:

• Embracing “good-enough” parenting and the reality behind the Instagram highlights reel
• Anna’s lived experience of anxiety, birth trauma and PND and the power of saying it out loud
• Shame, bonding difficulties and the moments that make you want to stay in the car park a bit longer
• Phones aren’t the enemy: Anna’s car-driving analogy for teaching kids safe, smart smartphone use
• Inside The Great British Phone Switch: what happens when parents and teens swap phones and the family pledges that result
• Celebs Go Dating behind the scenes: why Kerry Katona’s journey this series made Anna proud (plus a little Pete Wicks chat!)
• The Affair podcast: the many faces of infidelity.

Watch The Great British Phone Switch on Channel 4 (stream on demand), and listen to Anna’s podcast The Affair wherever you get your podcasts.
Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting tips, community support, engaging content: Website: netmums.com / Instagram: @netmums 
Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

This week on The Netmums Podcast, Alison & Wendy are joined by the ever-inspiring Joe Wicks, back for a third time on the NM pod, to discuss the importance of physical exercise for mental well-being.

Joe, known for his energetic PE sessions during lockdown, shares insights from his new government backed animated youtube series, Activate, aimed at getting kids moving and healthy. He opens up about the chaos of parenting four children and the lessons he’s learned about patience, empathy, and the importance of being present. From managing the daily challenges of homeschooling to finding time for personal fitness, Joe offers practical tips for parents to maintain their mental health while juggling family life.

In this episode:

• The mental health benefits of physical exercise for both parents and children
• How to create family routines that encourage movement and healthy habits
• Strategies for managing parenting chaos and maintaining patience
• The importance of being present and setting boundaries with technology
• Joe’s insights on engaging teenagers in physical activity
• The impact of Jo’s new animated series, Activate, on encouraging kids to move.

Get Joe’s youtube series, Activate HERE or search ‘Activate with Joe’.

Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting tips, community support, engaging content: Website: netmums.com / Instagram: @netmums 
Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

In the final episode of our teen skincare special in partnership with Purifide, by the makers of Acnecide, Netmums host Wendy Golledge tackles the dreaded “why now?!” breakout – those spots with perfect timing to appear right before prom, birthdays, or big family events.

Joined by mum Sarah, her daughter Phoenix, and Consultant Dermatologist Dr. Alia Ahmed from Purifide, we share real-life stories, expert advice, and quick fixes for calming flare-ups without panic or last-minute product scrambles. From spot patches with powerful ingredients to confidence-boosting strategies, this is your go-to guide for those skin emergencies.

In this episode, we cover:

• Quick, dermatologist-approved fixes for those “emergency” spots
• The truth about water, diet, and skin health
• How to support teens’ confidence when a breakout threatens to ruin the day
• Filtering social media skincare advice so it’s safe and effective
• When to seek professional help if spots just won’t go away
• Why big events can trigger flare-ups (and how stress plays a role)

Whether your teen’s prepping for prom or simply wants to feel confident in their own skin, this episode is packed with reassurance, expert tips, and real-life perspective.

Clear Conversations: Navigating Teen Acne with Phoenix and Dr. Alia

In episode two of our special Netmums mini-series on teen skin, host Wendy Golledge chats with mum Sarah and her teenage daughter Phoenix, alongside Consultant Dermatologist Dr. Alia Ahmed from Purifide (by the makers of Acnecide). Together, they share honest, real-world insights into managing blemish-prone skin – without turning the bathroom into a battleground.

Phoenix reveals how she’s built a skincare routine that works for her (even after a late night), Sarah opens up about supporting her without nagging, and Dr. Alia breaks down the essential steps for healthy, spot-prone skin – all with a myth-busting, practical approach.

In this episode, we cover:

• Skincare battles – how to reduce conflict over products and routines at home
• Daily routines that work – Phoenix’s consistency tips for clearer skin
• Expert steps – the importance of a strong routine: cleanse, treat, moisturise (and protect with SPF!)
• Myth-busting – why toothpaste and certain “miracle” cures can make things worse
• Parent pointers – motivating teens without sounding like a drill sergeant
• Boys skincare – why it matters just as much and how to get them on board

Whether your teen is a skincare enthusiast or needs a little nudge, this episode offers expert advice, practical tips, and reassurance that clear skin is about finding what works – not chasing perfection.

In this first episode of three Clear Conversations – a brand-new Netmums mini-series in partnership with Acnecide+Purifide – host Wendy Golledge dives into the emotional and often overwhelming world of teen skin.

Teen guest Phoenix opens up about the sudden onset of breakouts, her skincare trial-and-error journey, and how it affected her confidence, while her mum, Sarah, shares what it’s like to support your child through it all.

Joining the conversation is  Consultant Dermatologist and psychodermatology expert, Dr Alia Ahmed, who brings clarity with science-backed advice, myth-busting truths, and practical steps parents and teens can take to build healthier skin  – and self-esteem.

Whether you're a parent trying to help your teen or a young person navigating blemish-prone skin, this honest and supportive chat is packed with insight, empathy, and empowering tips.

Topics include:

• Why acne happens – the real causes behind breakouts
• How skin health and mental health are connected
• The do’s and dont’s of teen skincare routines
• Myths about acne, diet, hygiene and more
• Dr Alia’s top three skincare tips for teens

Resources and links:

• Dr Alia: @the_psychodermatologist / thepsychodermatologist.com
• Acnecide + Purifide: acnecide.co.uk / Available on Amazon

This episode of The Netmums Podcast features broadcaster, journalist and debut novelist Steph McGovern. Join Wendy and Alison for a chat about motherhood, family life, and finding balance between career and parenting. Steph shares her insights on keeping her daughter’s life private, being a same-sex parent, and how her experience of broadcasting during lockdown helped shape her debut thriller Deadline.

Key topics include:
Parenting Privacy: Steph explains why she’s chosen not to share photos or details of her daughter publicly — and the importance of letting kids grow up without the scrutiny of fame.

Same-Sex Parenting: Stories, funny anecdotes and Steph’s thoughts on how attitudes have shifted, including a moving moment of unexpected kindness from strangers.

Parenting Style: Steph talks about good cop/bad cop dynamics, teaching independence, and balancing encouragement with the perils of ‘over-correcting’

Money Matters: As host of The Rest Is Money, Steph shares practical advice on budgeting, earning points, and how to teach kids about money — even in a tap-and-go world.

Her Debut Novel, Deadline: Hear how Steph turned lockdown hours into a murder mystery, set in a money-printing factory and inspired by her days on BBC Breakfast.

Magic Breakfast Campaign: Steph supports Magic Radio’s Fuel for Success campaign, providing schoolchildren with the food they need to start the day right.

Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting tips, community support, engaging content: Website: netmums.com / Instagram: @netmums 
Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

In this exclusive episode of the Netmums Podcast, we’re invited inside 10 Downing Street for a rare, one-to-one interview with Prime Minister Keir Starmer — and we’re talking about more than politics.

From free childcare for babies from nine months to plans for paternity leave reform, Keir opens up about the big policy changes aimed at supporting UK parents and working families. But he also gets personal, sharing what it’s really like raising teenagers while running the country, how his family tackles Friday night takeaway decisions, and why changing nappies and flexible working matter just as much as parliamentary bills.

Expect honest reflections on fatherhood, candid advice for mums and dads, and a powerful reminder that there’s no one right way to parent.

This is an absolute must-listen! 

This episode of The Netmums Podcast features Anna Whitehouse, known as Mother Peach, a campaigner, radio presenter, and author. Join Wendy and Alison as they discuss the challenges of motherhood, the importance of self-care, and flexible working rights for parents.
Anna’s new novel Influenced is released on 14th August. She has also teamed up with Lovehoney, to pull back the covers on sex and intimacy pre and postpartum, being part of Lovehoney's 'Mama Sutra' campaign. At its core this is a free ebook for Mums at every stage of motherhood, offering support and guidance, and sharing real-life experiences.

Key topics include:

- The Vulnerability of Motherhood: Anna shares how motherhood reveals strengths and vulnerabilities.

- Self-Care: Discover why prioritising personal needs is vital for mental well-being.

- Challenging Gender Roles: Anna discusses the dad strike and the importance of active fatherhood.

- Co-Parenting Insights: Anna shares her journey through separation, explains the concept of ‘Magpie Parenting’, and the value of open communication.

- Being a 'Geriatric Mum': Reflecting on societal pressures and the resilience of older mothers.

- Relationships and Intimacy: A look at emotional connections in relationships post-baby.

- Flexible Working Future: Anna's vision for flexible work to support parents.


Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting tips, community support, engaging content: Website: netmums.com / Instagram: @netmums 
Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

In this episode of The Netmums Podcast, author and parenting favourite Katie Kirby returns to chat with Wendy and Alison. Known for the bestselling Lottie Brooks series and Hurrah for Gin, Katie brings her signature honesty and humour to a wide-ranging conversation about the joys and challenges of raising tweens and teens.

The conversation covers:

• 
  Relatable Role Models: Why kids need to see themselves in the books they read — and how Lottie Brooks became that character for so many.
  
  
• Friendship Dynamics: The differences between how boys and girls approach friendships, and why having multiple friend groups can be a lifesaver.
  
  
• The Smartphone Struggle: How tech and social media are reshaping childhood — and what parents can do to help kids navigate it safely and confidently.
  
  
• Real-Life Parenting: From summer holiday chaos to the art of embarrassing your kids (on purpose!), Katie shares her funniest and most heartfelt parenting moments.
  
  
• Open Conversations: Why honest chats with our kids — even the awkward ones — are key to building trust and resilience.
  
  
• Behind the Books: Katie opens up about the origins of Hurrah for Gin, her love of stick figures, and the potential future of Lottie Brooks on screen.

Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting stories, support and laughs:
 Website: netmums.com / Instagram: @netmums
Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

This episode of The Netmums Podcast features the incredible Kate Silverton, a former BBC news anchor turned child counsellor and advocate for compassionate parenting. Kate, Wendy and Alison unpack the crucial parenting topic of how to help our children regulate their emotions.

The conversation covers:

- The Impact of Labels: how terms like "naughty" can shape a child's identity, and why we should focus on behaviours rather than personal attributes.

- Understanding Emotional Responses: the importance of recognising our own emotional triggers as parents and how these can affect our responses to our children's feelings.

- The SAS Method: Kate introduces her SAS method for managing children's emotional outbursts, emphasising the need to 'See, Acknowledge, and Soothe' to help children regulate their emotions effectively.

- Navigating Tantrums: practical strategies for parents to support children through moments of distress.

- Rupture and Repair: how acknowledging mistakes can strengthen the parent-child bond.

Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting tips, community support, engaging content: Website: netmums.com / Instagram: @netmums 
Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

In this episode of The Netmums Podcast, Wendy and Alison are joined by naturalist, adventurer, TV presenter, and dad-of-three Steve Backshall. Best known for Deadly 60 and his breathtaking wildlife expeditions, Steve chats candidly about the chaos, comedy, and deep joy of parenting alongside his wife, Olympic rower Helen Glover.

From breakfast-in-bed fails to scaling oak trees with his kids, Steve brings his trademark humour and heartfelt honesty to a wide-ranging conversation about fatherhood, family life, and his latest adventure into the world of podcasting.

The conversation covers:

• 
  The Everyday Wildness of Parenthood: Why tying shoelaces, meltdowns in public, and parenting “feral” children are his new extreme challenges.
  
  
• Finding Balance with Helen Glover: How he and Helen juggle Olympic-level careers, school runs, and quality family time (spoiler: not perfectly).
  
  
• Father’s Day Real Talk: Why he dreads breakfast in bed and what a "wholesome" Sunday looks like in the Backshall household.
  
  
• Parenting in the Public Eye: Navigating toddler tantrums when everyone’s watching—and yes, everyone is watching.
  
  
• Nature as a Reset Button: Steve’s powerful belief in the mental health benefits of the outdoors, and how a walk by the river can fix almost anything.
  
  
• Letting Kids Be Who They Are: The importance of not pushing children into your own passions—even if you really want them to love sharks.
  
  
• Big New Adventures: Steve’s exciting move into podcasting (That’s Just Wild) and his upcoming arena tour, Deadly Live, complete with dinosaurs, stunts, and stage science.

Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting stories, laughs, and real-life insights:
 Website: netmums.com
Instagram: @netmums
🎧 Produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

This episode of The Netmums Podcast features the insightful Jennifer Cox, a psychotherapist and author of "Women Are Angry." Join Wendy and Alison as they explore the complexities of anger in women's lives, shedding light on the often-silent rage simmering beneath the surface.

The conversation covers:

- The Nature of Anger: the societal conditioning that teaches women to suppress their anger and the importance of recognising and expressing these feelings for mental well-being.

- The Impact of Upbringing: how childhood messages about being "good" can lead to repressed emotions, Jennifer highlights the detrimental effects this can have on women's health.

- Permission to Feel: giving women permission to express their anger, discussing how this can lead to improved mental health and a sense of community.

- Anger as a GPS: using anger as a guiding force for change in our lives, encouraging listeners to view their emotions as tools for personal growth.

- Tools for Healthy Expression: practical methods for releasing pent-up emotions in a constructive way.

- The Taboo of Maternal Rage: the stigma surrounding maternal anger and how societal perceptions can hinder women's ability to express their feelings.

Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting tips, community support, engaging content: Website: netmums.com / Instagram: @netmums 
Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

This episode of The Netmums Podcast features the inspiring Beth Mead, a trailblazer in women's football and a member of the victorious Lionesses squad from the 2022 Euros. Join Wendy and Alison as they delve into Beth's remarkable football career and journey, discussing her achievements, challenges, and the importance of supporting young girls in sport.

The conversation covers:

- Beth’s Football Journey: Beth’s early days in football, the support from her family, and her determination to succeed despite facing negativity as a girl in a boys' sport.

- Turning 30 and Achievements: Celebrating her recent birthday, Beth discusses her impressive career milestones, including winning the Golden Boot and being named Sports Personality of the Year.

- The Importance of Role Models: how visibility and support from role models can encourage more girls to participate in sports.

- Mental Health Advocacy: Beth’s personal struggles with grief and injury, and the role of support systems in overcoming challenges.


Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting tips, community support, engaging content: Website: netmums.com / Instagram: @netmums 
Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative