Parenthood is life-changing, but for today’s guest, Anna Water-Massey, it came with both joy and deep loss. At 30, Anna became a mother to Cleo, and a year later, she lost her own mother to cancer. Despite the heartbreak, Anna shares the incredible bond she’s built with Cleo—a connection that continues to grow, especially now that Cleo has become a mother herself to baby Indigo.

In this episode of Little Love Stories, Anna reflects on the powerful ties between mothers, daughters, and granddaughters, and how love can transcend even the hardest of times.

You can read Anna's full little Love Story here. 

THE END BITS 

Tell us what you really think so we can give you more of what you really want. Fill out this survey and you’ll go in the running to win one of five $100 gift vouchers.

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CREDITS:

Host & Producer: Grace Rouvray

Guest: Anna Waters-Massey

Anna's menopause skit here

You can watch the viral TikTok pregnancy announcement here 

Audio Producer: Leah Porges

Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Life can get hectic—between chores, work, and managing the mental load, it's easy for connection with your partner to slip down the priority list. Before you know it, you might find yourselves in the "roommate phase."

In this episode, we explore the telltale signs of this phase and share tips on how to reconnect. We're also joined by a dad, who brings his own perspective on navigating the roommate dynamic in relationships.

And to wrap things up, we leave you with a song that might just hit you right in the feels.

You can read Bek Day's Mamamia article 'I coach married parents through the "roommate phase". Here's the 2 day experiment I swear by.'

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If you’re looking for something else to listen to why not check out our hilarious and seriously unhelpful podcast The Baby Bubble hosted by Clare and Jessie Stephens.

Or click here to listen to the hosts of Mamamia Out Loud open up about creativity and how they stay inspired.

Got a message for Sarah Marie? We’re listening! Send us a voice message, email us at [email protected]

We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list.

CREDITS:

Hosts: Tegan Natoli, Annaliese Todd & Sarah Marie Fahd 

With thanks to Thom Lion

Producer: Grace Rouvray

Audio Producer: Lu Hill

Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode, we uncover how a mystery rash is actually tied to last night’s dinner, a parent who’s taking "work from home" to a whole new level, and meet a mum who’s embracing sleep deprivation—for a surprising new reason. 

You can share your best worst parenting stories by leaving us a voice note, email us at [email protected] or for super shame super anonymous you can pop them in this form. 

THE END BITS 

Tell us what you really think so we can give you more of what you really want. Fill out this survey and you’ll go in the running to win one of five $100 gift vouchers.

Subscribe to Mamamia

We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list.

CREDITS:

Host: Annaliese Todd & Stacey Hicks

Producer: Grace Rouvray

Audio Producer: Lu Hill

Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Did you know that even having just one child could reduce your super by almost $100k? It's a staggering statistic that highlights the "mum tax" women face all the way into retirement.

In this week’s episode, we break down the numbers behind "mum math" and share how to secure your finances—not in a dry, boring way, but in a way that makes sense for everyone. Promise!

Plus, we've got some helpful tips from finance guru Canna Campbell!

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If you’re looking for something else to listen to why not check out our hilarious and seriously unhelpful podcast The Baby Bubble hosted by Clare and Jessie Stephens.

Or click here to listen to the hosts of Mamamia Out Loud open up about creativity and how they stay inspired.

Got a message for Sarah Marie? We’re listening! Send us a voice message, email us at [email protected]

We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list.

CREDITS:

Host: Tegan Natoli, Annaliese Todd & Sarah Marie Fahd 

With thanks to Canna Campbell and Yvette Bay 

Producer: Grace Rouvray

Audio Producer: Lu Hill

Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever felt that instant spark of friendship with someone new? That’s exactly what happened when comedian Damian Callinan met Cal Wilson in the early 2000s.

In this episode of Little Love Stories, we remember the vibrant Kiwi comedian, Cal Wilson, who passed away nearly a year ago. Damian reflects on their friendship, their collaborations on shows like Skit House, and the honour of being the MC at both her wedding and funeral— a role he describes as among the most important in his life.

Despite the pain of losing her, Damian shares the joy of hearing other people's "Cal Wilson Moments" that help keep her memory alive.

You can read Damian's full Little Love Story here. 

THE END BITS 

If you’re looking for something else to listen to why not check out our hilarious and seriously unhelpful podcast The Baby Bubble hosted by Clare and Jessie Stephens.

Tell us what you really think so we can give you more of what you really want. Fill out this survey and you’ll go in the running to win one of five $100 gift vouchers.

Subscribe to Mamamia

We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list.

CREDITS:

Host & Producer: Grace Rouvray

Guest: Damian Callinan

Audio Producer: Leah Porges

Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you remember when magazines were packed with weight loss stories, "heroin chic" goals, and how a size 12 woman was considered "big"?

Today, Annaliese reflects on the media that shaped our childhood and how social media now plays the same role for kids today. Which is worse, and how can we protect our kids from it?

Plus Sarah Marie solves a generational battle and we hear how Aussie Mum's are wrangling their dinner time. 

THE END BITS

If you’re looking for something else to listen to why not check out our hilarious and seriously unhelpful podcast The Baby Bubble hosted by Clare and Jessie Stephens.

Or click here to listen to the hosts of Mamamia Out Loud open up about creativity and how they stay inspired.

Got a message for Sarah Marie? We’re listening! Send us a voice message, email us at [email protected]

We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list.

CREDITS:

Host: Tegan Natoli, Annaliese Todd & Sarah Marie Fahd 

Producer: Grace Rouvray

Audio Producer: Lu Hill

Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A wise historian (Annaliese) once said that house guests are like fish—after two days, they’ve got to go. And in one confession, a parent is feeling especially anxious with both Christmas and their in-laws fast approaching.

Stacey and Annaliese also help a parent navigate a "circle of life" faux pas, plus a confession that proves flattery can quite literally get you anywhere.

THE END BITS 

If you’re looking for something else to listen to why not check out our hilarious and seriously unhelpful podcast The Baby Bubble hosted by Clare and Jessie Stephens.

Or click here to listen to the hosts of Mamamia Out Loud open up about creativity and how they stay inspired.

Tell us what you really think so we can give you more of what you really want. Fill out this survey and you’ll go in the running to win one of five $100 gift vouchers.

Subscribe to Mamamia

We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list.

CREDITS:

Host: Annaliese Todd & Stacey Hicks

Producer: Grace Rouvray

Audio Producer: Lu Hill

Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Think back to your child's biggest meltdown – maybe it happened right in the middle of a supermarket, or on one of those days where your own emotions were just as high. The truth is, as parents, we’re not that different. We have our own breakdowns, struggling to regulate our emotions in this tough world. While kids can get away with a cuddle to calm them down, we’re expected to just keep going. Its rude.... and unfair! 

In this week's episode, Annaliese and Tegan share their own child-like meltdowns and ask the question: Are adults really any better than kids at keeping their emotions in check?

THE END BITS

If you’re looking for something else to listen to why not check out our hilarious and seriously unhelpful podcast The Baby Bubble hosted by Clare and Jessie Stephens.

Or click here to listen to the hosts of Mamamia Out Loud open up about creativity and how they stay inspired.

Got a message for Sarah Marie? We’re listening! Send us a voice message, email us at [email protected]

We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list.

CREDITS:

Host: Tegan Natoli, Annaliese Todd & Sarah Marie Fahd 

Producer: Grace Rouvray

Audio Producer: Lu Hill

Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The bond between sisters is a unique mix of fierce loyalty and the ability to argue over just about anything. But when someone you love is in danger, that bond becomes unwavering.

In this episode of Little Love Stories, we explore the extraordinary bond between sisters Grace and Lil O'Connell. When Lil fell critically ill with meningococcal disease on Christmas Day 2017, her life was on the line. After weeks in the ICU, she pulled through, only to face kidney failure. In a twist of fate, her perfect donor match—and her greatest support—was her sister Grace.

THE END BITS 

What type of friend are you? Click here to take our free quiz.

If you’re looking for something else to listen to why not check out our hilarious and seriously unhelpful podcast The Baby Bubble hosted by Clare and Jessie Stephens.

Tell us what you really think so we can give you more of what you really want. Fill out this survey and you’ll go in the running to win one of five $100 gift vouchers.

Subscribe to Mamamia

We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list.

CREDITS:

Host & Producer: Grace Rouvray

Guest: Grace O'Connell 

Audio Producer: Lu Hill

Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Having a child fundamentally changes your world. It’s a beautiful transformation that brings wonderful new experiences, but it also alters the dynamics of your relationships, including friendships.

In this week’s episode, Tegan and Annaliese reflect on how their friendships have evolved through different seasons, including those that have come back around, as well as the new connections formed through parenthood.

Plus, Sarah Marie dives into what might be the best family drama of all time, all sparked by a rather interesting choice of baby name.

Read Em Vernem's article The Age Your Friendships 'Splinter'

THE END BITS

What type of friend are you? Click here to take our free quiz.

If you’re looking for something else to listen to why not check out our hilarious and seriously unhelpful podcast The Baby Bubble hosted by Clare and Jessie Stephens.

Or click here to listen to the hosts of Mamamia Out Loud open up about creativity and how they stay inspired.

Got a message for Sarah Marie? We’re listening! Send us a voice message, email us at [email protected]

We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list.

CREDITS:

Host: Tegan Natoli, Annaliese Todd & Sarah Marie Fahd 

Producer: Grace Rouvray

Audio Producer: Lu Hill

Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.