Zazi is a mum of two, speech and language therapist, and the heart behind @zaziplays. What began as a blog during maternity leave grew into a thriving community helping parents support their children’s development through play. Now, she’s created Zazi - a brand designed with real families in mind, making everyday moments easier, calmer and full of connection.

In this episode of Being Real Parents, Anna Mowat talks with Elizabeth Goodwin, founder of Awhi ngā Mātua - a community for parents of intellectually disabled, neurodivergent, and medically fragile tamariki. They explore the kaupapa behind Awhi ngā Mātua, what parents are experiencing right now, and the insights, encouragement, and practical ways we can support one another across Aotearoa.

The Real Parents team aim to support parents to find their confidence and have more fun parenting.

In this episode of Being Real Parents, Anna talks with Keryn from Brainwave Trust about the science behind teenage brain development and why parents remain vital in the teen years. Part one of our two-part series explores research on adolescence, teen mental health, and parent–teen connection, giving you insight into why staying engaged matters and the positive difference it makes for your teenager.

In this week’s Being Real Parents podcast, Juliet shares her frustration with messy kids’ bedrooms while Anna coaches her through it. Discover practical parenting tips for tackling the messy bedroom battle, plus a behind-the-scenes look at how parent coaching works - even for child wellbeing professionals. Tune in for strategies every parent can use!

Parenting can be joyful and rewarding, but it also brings stress that’s often invisible to others. Anna and Juliet talk honestly about what parental stress looks like, and the small but powerful steps that help. From non-negotiables they do to the value of simply talking it through, this episode is packed with relatable insights and encouragement. Tune in and feel a little less alone.

Kate talks with Jessie from Dew Drops about her mahi supporting parents in the postpartum period. They explore how we can prepare for the shift into parenthood, ways to build a village of support, and how to lean on that village when it matters most. This kōrero also carries a gentle warning, as some parts may bring up feelings or memories for parents.

Feeling burnt out, overloaded, or constantly on the go? In this episode, Kate talks with Dr Denise Quinlan about the pressure to do more, why so many of us are working ourselves too hard, and how to shift toward balance and wellbeing. If you're tired of the hustle and craving calm, this episode is for you.

Journalist and co-founder of One Mother to Another, Joy Reid, joins Anna to talk hospital stays, parenting through crisis, and the small acts of kindness that make the biggest difference. We explore the emotional load parents carry and how to support each other when life gets hard. A must-listen for anyone navigating children’s health, NICU stays, or wanting to make a difference.

Keryn O’Neill from Brainwave Trust joins Anna to talk about teen drinking and the teenage brain. Keryn brings evidence-based insights into why adolescence is such a critical time and how alcohol affects development. She shares what we can do as parents to support our teens, set safe boundaries, and reduce harm - without unintentionally encouraging underage drinking. A must-listen for whānau navigating this tricky stage.