Parents Who Think

What happens when a woman builds an empire that shatters every outdated idea about female sexuality, and then dares to become a mother? Today, we feature Emma Sayle—founder of Killing Kittens, global disruptor, and all-around unapologetic powerhouse. We're talking about breaking taboos, rewriting the rules of partnership and parenting, and why self-care isn't a luxury—it's a damn necessity.

Emma shares how she built a community where women take control, how motherhood collided with societal expectations of her, and why 'just asking' is the most underrated relationship strategy. We also tackle the myth of the self-sacrificing mother (spoiler: no one's handing out medals for martyrdom), the financial leverage that changes the game, and why taking time for yourself isn't selfish—it's survival.

If you've ever been made to feel like you can't have power, pleasure, and parenthood on your own terms, this one's for you.

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• Join the Parents Who Think community on Substack

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Credits:

• Hosted by Danusia Malina-Derben

• Edited, Mixed + Mastered by Marie Kruz

• Cover art by Anthony Oram

Join Host, Danusia Malina-Derben brings you a powerful conversation with Dr Shoshana Garfield, a survivor of childhood torture and sexual abuse. Shoshana shares her journey of healing and self-reclamation, highlighting the importance of forgiveness, self-compassion, and relentless kindness.

This episode explores the long-term impacts of trauma and the process of overcoming adversity to create a life filled with freedom and joy. Shoshana also discusses her work as an expert in torture rehabilitation and the power of energy psychology in her own healing journey.

Discover more from us:

• Join the Parents Who Think community on Substack

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• Connect with Danusia

• Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts

• Advertising Inquiries here

Credits:

• Hosted by Danusia Malina-Derben

• Edited, Mixed + Mastered by Marie Kruz

• Cover art by Anthony Oram

In this episode of Parents Who Think, Danusia is in conversation with Rachel Pesso, brand designer and unapologetic truth-teller, about her choice to skip motherhood—despite the relentless pressure to conform. Rachel gets real about the fear of judgment, the selfish-woman stereotype, and those infuriating "you'll change your mind" conversations. Spoiler: she hasn't.

Together, they blow up the outdated myth that motherhood is the only path to fulfillment. Rachel opens up about navigating anxiety, holding onto her ambitions, and the deeply ingrained expectations that make women feel like they have to disappear when they become mothers. This is a conversation that hits deep.

If you've ever questioned the script society wrote for you, this one's for you. Tune in and let's rewrite the rules.

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• Join the Parents Who Think community on Substack

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• Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts

• Advertising Inquiries here

Credits:

• Hosted by Danusia Malina-Derben

• Edited, Mixed + Mastered by Marie Kruz

• Cover art by Anthony Oram

Danusia is joined by Yvadney Davis to explore the magic of fashion as self-expression. Whether it's metallic joggers, kaftans, or Katharine Hepburn-inspired classics, Yvadney serves up insights on owning your style unapologetically.

From experimenting with bold looks to raising kids who feel confident in their clothing choices, this episode is a celebration of individuality. Yvadney even shares how motherhood gave her the ultimate confidence boost: "If I can give birth in front of strangers, I can dress however I want."

This is your reminder to have fun with fashion, embrace your unique slay, and never let trends define you.

Press play and prepare to feel inspired!

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• Join the Parents Who Think community on Substack

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• Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts

• Advertising Inquiries here

Credits:

• Hosted by Danusia Malina-Derben

• Edited, Mixed + Mastered by Marie Kruz

• Cover art by Anthony Oram

Today, host Danusia Malina-Derben is joined by author Uju Asika. She shares her powerful story of navigating childhood racism, the lessons it taught her, and why hope is at the heart of her work. We talk about when kids start noticing race, why "colorblind" parenting doesn't work, and how we can have honest, age-appropriate conversations about race. Uju also challenges us to lovingly examine our own lives and the unconscious messages we're passing on. This is a conversation about healing, growth, and the power of the next generation to make change.

Don't miss Uju's book Bringing Up Race: How to Raise a Kind Child in a Prejudiced World. —it's a game-changer.

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• Join the Parents Who Think community on Substack

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• Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts

• Advertising Inquiries here

Credits:

• Hosted by Danusia Malina-Derben

• Edited, Mixed + Mastered by Marie Kruz

• Cover art by Anthony Oram

In this episode of Parents Who Think, Danusia interviews Selling Sunset star Mary Bonnet about her inspiring journey from being a teen mom to becoming a powerhouse in high-end real estate. Mary opens up about the challenges she faced raising her son at 15, the grit it took to thrive, and how she's still raising the bar.

They discuss the work ethic Mary developed as a teen mom and how it shaped her success, overcoming societal expectations and the realities of juggling ambition and motherhood, and tackling double standards, from ageism to gender dynamics in business. Mary also shares her thoughts on having children in her 40s and how technology is redefining motherhood.

This candid conversation is packed with wisdom and inspiration for anyone looking to break barriers and chase their dreams.

Discover more from us:

• Join the Parents Who Think community on Substack

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• Connect with Danusia

• Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts

• Advertising Inquiries here

Credits:

• Hosted by Danusia Malina-Derben

• Edited, Mixed + Mastered by Marie Kruz

• Cover art by Anthony Oram

Why is asking for what we want so hard? In this episode, host Danusia Malina-Derben gets into this question with guest Emer Brady, exploring the barriers many women face when advocating for themselves. From the subtleties of language to the power of body language, this conversation is packed with practical tips for anyone looking to show up stronger—especially in the workplace.

You'll hear why apologetic language holds us back, how to communicate assertively without losing authenticity, and the importance of preparation before asking for what you need. Plus, there's a fascinating discussion on the role of cultural dynamics in how requests are received and why understanding your audience matters as much as knowing what you want.

One standout insight? Advocacy isn't just about the ask—it's about planting seeds, listening actively, and learning from those who've mastered the skill. With actionable tips like video-recording yourself to refine your delivery or observing how others successfully navigate workplace dynamics, this episode is a practical guide for turning self-doubt into self-confidence.

If you've ever hesitated to speak up or worried about being seen as "too much," this episode will leave you with tools to start making your voice heard. A must-listen for anyone ready to reframe their mindset and take action.

Discover more from us:

• Join the Parents Who Think community on Substack

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• Connect with Danusia

• Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts

• Advertising Inquiries here

Credits:

• Hosted by Danusia Malina-Derben

• Edited, Mixed + Mastered by Marie Kruz

• Cover art by Anthony Oram

In this episode, Danusia is joined by her daughter, Harriet Malina-Derben, for a candid conversation about the complexities of mother-daughter relationships. Together, they unpack the generational patterns that can trap these bonds in negativity, from societal expectations that pit women against each other to the stereotyped idea of "tricky" mother-daughter dynamics.

This heartfelt exchange dives into the importance of recognizing mothers as fully human—flaws, history, and all—and explores how adult daughters can shift their perspective to foster a deeper, more mutual connection. Harriet offers insights on how viewing mothers through a lens of empathy can transform a relationship once riddled with misunderstandings into one of empowerment and growth.

The pair also reflect on breaking free from patriarchal narratives and embracing an ongoing exchange of wisdom between mothers and daughters. From the emotional rollercoaster of raising daughters to the intensity of female relationships, this conversation is full of practical takeaways for anyone seeking to build stronger bonds.

If you've ever struggled to navigate your relationship with your mother or daughter, this episode offers plenty of food for thought—and hope.

Discover more from us:

• Join the Parents Who Think community on Substack

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• Connect with Danusia

• Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts

• Advertising Inquiries here

Credits:

• Hosted by Danusia Malina-Derben

• Edited, Mixed + Mastered by Marie Kruz

• Cover art by Anthony Oram

Perfection is overrated—especially in parenting. In this thought-provoking episode, Danusia Malina-Derben sits down with Dr Joanna Fortune, child psychotherapist and author, to challenge the myths of perfect parenting and embrace being "good enough."

Joanna shares about the concept of parental stamina—how to recharge your tank without guilt—and why your own self-care isn't just essential but a powerful teaching tool for your kids. From playful strategies (hello, dance breaks!) to the importance of taking time-outs (for parents too!), you'll discover practical ways to lighten the load without compromising connection.

And here's the kicker: Joanna shares her bold take on why kids shouldn't be the centre of the family universe. Spoiler alert: happy parents create a solid foundation for happy kids.

This episode? A guilt-free guide to doing your best, showing your kids it's okay to make mistakes, and letting go of the pressure to be perfect. Permission to be good enough granted.

Discover more from us:

• Join the Parents Who Think community on Substack

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• Connect with Danusia

• Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts

• Advertising Inquiries here

Credits:

• Hosted by Danusia Malina-Derben

• Edited, Mixed + Mastered by Marie Kruz

• Cover art by Anthony Oram

Danusia Malina-Derben takes on the myth of "having it all" with Caroline Flanagan, author of Be the First and all-round powerhouse. Together, they shred the outdated idea that women need to do everything to have it all—and dig into what your "all" could look like.

But that's not all. Imposter syndrome? They're calling it out for the fraud it is. Caroline shares her real-life experience of feeling like she didn't belong and how she flipped the script to reclaim her power.

This isn't about perfection or keeping up appearances—it's about learning to own your worth, rewrite the rules and reframe your inner narrative to find solutions (instead of self-doubt).

Discover more from us:

• Join the Parents Who Think community on Substack

• Follow us on Instagram

• Connect with Danusia

• Buy Danusia's Motherhood book: NOISE

• Caroline Flanagan's book: Be the First

• Mentioned reads: Your Brain at Work by David Rock and My Hidden Chimp by Prof. Steve Peters

• Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts

• Advertising Inquiries here

Credits:

• Hosted by Danusia Malina-Derben

• Edited, Mixed + Mastered by Marie Kruz

• Cover art by Anthony Oram