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.

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