Summary

In this episode of Shameless Parenting, Roger and Niall dive into a variety of listener questions, exploring the evolution of parenting perspectives, the changing role of fathers, and the challenges of modern parenting. They discuss the impact of sleep deprivation, societal expectations, and the complexities of identity in fatherhood. The conversation also touches on the struggles of intimacy in relationships, the influence of social media, and the importance of seeking support during tough times. With humor and honesty, they navigate the ups and downs of parenting, offering insights and encouragement to fellow dads.

Takeaways

Parenting changes your priorities and outlook on life.

Sleep deprivation is a common struggle for parents.

The role of fathers in parenting is evolving.

Societal expectations can create pressure on fathers.

It's important to communicate openly with partners.

Taking time for self-care is essential for parents.

Children's identities are shaped by their unique experiences.

Social media poses challenges for modern parenting.

Seeking support is crucial for mental health.

Intimacy in relationships can be affected by parenting responsibilities.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Hiatus Reflection

02:28 The Evolution of Parenting Perspectives

05:27 Cultural Shifts in Fatherhood

08:27 Navigating Parenting Challenges

11:15 Discipline and Parenting Methods

13:43 Listener Confessions and Guilt

15:16 The Importance of Family Resemblance

15:29 I lied to my wife so I could sleep at a hotel instead of going to work

22:49 Social Media and Parenting Concerns

22:52 Help my kid doesn't look like me

32:46 Age Restrictions on Social Media

38:11 Parenting in the Digital Age

42:59 The Social Dynamics of Teenagers

44:38 Legislation and Social Media in Ireland

44:40 The Rise of AI and Parenting Concerns

48:40 Maybe I'm just not cut out to be a father..

55:25 Navigating Fatherhood Challenges

01:03:00 Intimacy and Relationships Post-Children

01:09:30 Irish ironmen

01:11:34 shameless parenting outro

Keywords

parenting, fatherhood, listener questions, modern parenting, social media, intimacy, support, identity, challenges, relationships

Welcome back to another episode of “Shameless Parenting,” where today, Ryan and Steph dive into the whirlwind world of traveling with toddlers. Broadcasting from Melbourne, they share their recent experiences and tips on managing short domestic trips with young kids.

In This Episode:

• Travel Tales: Hear about Ryan and Steph’s latest adventure to Melbourne with their two children under two, including the unexpected benefits of having a spare seat on the plane and the game-changing impact it had on their travel experience.

• Packing Dynamics: Steph opens up about the mental load of packing for the family and how division of labor in their household influences travel preparation.

• Listener Question: A listener writes in, humorously lamenting about her husband’s minimalist packing and disengagement during flights, seeking advice on how to make him share the mental load. Steph and Ryan discuss strategies to encourage more proactive participation from less involved partners.

• Best & Worst of Travel Gear: The duo shares their top picks for travel essentials, including a foldable travel pram and the indispensable iPad for entertaining toddlers. They also discuss the pitfalls of certain types of drink bottles that can cause unexpected surprises mid-flight.

• Melbourne vs Sydney: Delve into the perennial debate between these two great cities from the perspective of a family who knows them both well. Discover which city wins on coffee, fashion, nightlife, and more.

Key Takeaways:

• How having a well-designed travel pram can make navigating airports and cities easier.

• The importance of being prepared with entertainment for young children, including digital and non-digital options.

• Tips for handling the unexpected, from dealing with exploding drink bottles to ensuring all family members’ needs are considered during packing.

Listener Support:

Supporting “Shameless Parenting” is easy and rewarding! Subscribe for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes access, and special episodes. Your support helps us continue bringing these important discussions to light.

Connect With Us:

• Instagram: @ShamelessParenting

• Twitter: @ShameParenting

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Love the show? Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media for all the latest updates and extra content.

Share your own travel tales and tips with us, and let us know if you have any topics or questions you’d like us to cover in future episodes!

Welcome back to another episode of Shameless Parenting. This week, Ryan and Steph share their whirlwind of experiences, from uninvited attic dwellers to urgent hospital visits.

In This Episode:

Best and Worst of the Week:

Key Takeaways:

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"I just need some time to decompress when I get back home from work..."

In this triggering episode of Shameless Parenting, hosts Ryan and Steph tackle the age-old struggle many new parents face: finding balance between work, support, and mental health. A listener's question prompts a deep dive into the delicate dynamics of parental leave, returning to work, and managing family responsibilities.

In this episode, you'll hear:

Best and Worst Parenting Tips:

Best and Worst Products from This Week's Episode:

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Welcome to another episode of the Shameless Parenting Podcast with Ryan and Steph!

This week, we're diving into an intriguing listener question that's sure to get a conversation going:

"Dear podcast, I’ve quite the shameless story for you. For context, I grew up quite conservative. I have memories of my dad literally getting up and leaving the dinner table when my mum or sister would mention anything to do with their periods. So when my breastfeeding wife asked me to help her ‘unblock’ her milk duct the other week, I really didn’t react so well. If I’m brutally honest, there is a part of me that is quite squeamish about all the changes her body has gone through. I understand it is all natural and I love my wife, but she now looks so different I can’t help feel a little put off. I’m trying not to come to the conclusion that I’m a bad guy. How should I handle this?"

Ryan and Steph discuss the complexities of this listener's dilemma, from the conservative upbringing that influences his views to the awkwardness and discomfort of dealing with bodily changes during and after pregnancy. We explore how partners can better support each other through these sensitive transitions and find common ground despite differing comfort levels.

In addition to this listener's story, we also delve into the realities of breastfeeding, from common challenges to solutions that work. We share our best and worst products for nursing mothers, offering insights into what's worth investing in and what to avoid.

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Lanolin healing cream: https://www.amazon.com.au/Lansinoh-Emolient-15g-Tube/dp/B077PQ4YKX?crid=YTR7JZEC6PWO&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.iR83UPCJyObfj2R9gpJLsUG_oL4aoUOaC90DvZ9iXOC2rK9Aci4pVqNdJIQTUcvxRb__6UiicdSCFMIYYXthF2_HU54oVCi7tXuI6boslg4Xd4iKbUTSuUHnosgeQr19qBLd4nccovZEwzetGr1aocjLKkPGuBXSdrk-W4oo0CgclMWcfJcgEkXuHMK934NJRTAzv_UMGwHnu8mzlm4cB3JHJle79xPNKsgt_H-JzkS8rNGxWpdwjlyowgvgKy6F88xVXxMHy2LkW1OWYN_CQfoHY9ygMfd4BrsHS64eryo.Q4W8X5MmOX7UVVXvoMyaxpZC6Wl2s8g0auaXjfJ4pGA&dib_tag=se&keywords=lanolin+nipple+cream&qid=1714308010&sprefix=lanolin+%2Caps%2C247&sr=8-5&linkCode=sl1&tag=shamelesspare-22&linkId=bd6098d2e3ae79f3d9a5192455d602bd&language=en_AU&ref_=as_li_ss_tl

Welcome to this week's episode of Shameless Parenting with a very special guest, my sister Christine!

We’re unpacking a hot topic that hit close to home for us both — tiger parenting and its impact across cultural lines. Listen in as we explore a listener’s dilemma about balancing strict academic expectations with their child’s happiness, sparked by a decision to let their son quit piano lessons.

Christine and I also reminisce about our own childhood experiences with forced piano lessons, sharing the laughs and the scars. Plus, we celebrate my son’s full moon party, discussing how these traditions create lasting memories and foster cultural identity.

And since school holidays are just around the corner, we debate the best and worst ways to keep the kids occupied. Christine champions tennis camp despite my concerns about who's running them, and she vents about holiday activities that end before the workday does — a logistical nightmare for working parents! I'll share why cousin time is my holiday highlight, and we'll both groan over the outrageous costs of holiday fun.

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The best way to support the show is to become a subscriber!

Join the family and subscribe to Shameless Parenting to receive bonus AO episodes, merch drops, exclusive social events and early access to our parenting product launches!

⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/not-mum/subscribe⁠⁠

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"Help! I can't settle my son, and my wife is starting to resent me," confesses a distressed dad.

In this revealing episode of "Shameless Parenting," hosts Ryan and Steph tackle the tough realities that new dads face during the early weeks of a newborn's life.

Join us as we dive deep into this common dilemma, offering insights, empathy, and expert advice on how to strengthen your family bond during these challenging times.

Plus, don't miss our guide on the best and worst products for newborns. Ryan and Steph share their top picks and pans, helping you navigate the crowded marketplace of baby products.

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You're all invited to the Shameless Parenting After Party!

Listen in to get the latest on Steph's birth, shameful dad grooming stories and the best and worst recovery products!

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The best way to support the show is to become a subscriber!

Join the family and subscribe to Shameless Parenting to receive bonus AO episodes, merch drops, exclusive social events and early access to our parenting product launches!

⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/not-mum/subscribe⁠

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Find our best products from this week's episode:

'Show me a woman without shame - and I'll show you a man'

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The best way to support the show is to become a subscriber!

Join the family and subscribe to Shameless Parenting to receive bonus ADULTS ONLY episodes, merch drops, exclusive social events and early access to our parenting product launches!

https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/not-mum/subscribe

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Best products from this week's episode