In this episode of The Netmums Podcast, Wendy and Alison are joined by naturalist, adventurer, TV presenter, and dad-of-three Steve Backshall. Best known for Deadly 60 and his breathtaking wildlife expeditions, Steve chats candidly about the chaos, comedy, and deep joy of parenting alongside his wife, Olympic rower Helen Glover.

From breakfast-in-bed fails to scaling oak trees with his kids, Steve brings his trademark humour and heartfelt honesty to a wide-ranging conversation about fatherhood, family life, and his latest adventure into the world of podcasting.

The conversation covers:

The Everyday Wildness of Parenthood: Why tying shoelaces, meltdowns in public, and parenting “feral” children are his new extreme challenges.

Finding Balance with Helen Glover: How he and Helen juggle Olympic-level careers, school runs, and quality family time (spoiler: not perfectly).

Father’s Day Real Talk: Why he dreads breakfast in bed and what a "wholesome" Sunday looks like in the Backshall household.

Parenting in the Public Eye: Navigating toddler tantrums when everyone’s watching—and yes, everyone is watching.

Nature as a Reset Button: Steve’s powerful belief in the mental health benefits of the outdoors, and how a walk by the river can fix almost anything.

Letting Kids Be Who They Are: The importance of not pushing children into your own passions—even if you really want them to love sharks.

Big New Adventures: Steve’s exciting move into podcasting (That’s Just Wild) and his upcoming arena tour, Deadly Live, complete with dinosaurs, stunts, and stage science.

Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting stories, laughs, and real-life insights:

 Website: netmums.com

Instagram: @netmums

🎧 Produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

This episode of The Netmums Podcast features the insightful Jennifer Cox, a psychotherapist and author of "Women Are Angry." Join Wendy and Alison as they explore the complexities of anger in women's lives, shedding light on the often-silent rage simmering beneath the surface.

The conversation covers:

- The Nature of Anger: the societal conditioning that teaches women to suppress their anger and the importance of recognising and expressing these feelings for mental well-being.

- The Impact of Upbringing: how childhood messages about being "good" can lead to repressed emotions, Jennifer highlights the detrimental effects this can have on women's health.

- Permission to Feel: giving women permission to express their anger, discussing how this can lead to improved mental health and a sense of community.

- Anger as a GPS: using anger as a guiding force for change in our lives, encouraging listeners to view their emotions as tools for personal growth.

- Tools for Healthy Expression: practical methods for releasing pent-up emotions in a constructive way.

- The Taboo of Maternal Rage: the stigma surrounding maternal anger and how societal perceptions can hinder women's ability to express their feelings.

Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting tips, community support, engaging content: Website: netmums.com / Instagram: @netmums 

Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

This episode of The Netmums Podcast features the inspiring Beth Mead, a trailblazer in women's football and a member of the victorious Lionesses squad from the 2022 Euros. Join Wendy and Alison as they delve into Beth's remarkable football career and journey, discussing her achievements, challenges, and the importance of supporting young girls in sport.

The conversation covers:

- Beth’s Football Journey: Beth’s early days in football, the support from her family, and her determination to succeed despite facing negativity as a girl in a boys' sport.

- Turning 30 and Achievements: Celebrating her recent birthday, Beth discusses her impressive career milestones, including winning the Golden Boot and being named Sports Personality of the Year.

- The Importance of Role Models: how visibility and support from role models can encourage more girls to participate in sports.

- Mental Health Advocacy: Beth’s personal struggles with grief and injury, and the role of support systems in overcoming challenges.

Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting tips, community support, engaging content: Website: netmums.com / Instagram: @netmums 

Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

In this episode of The Netmums Podcast, Wendy and Alison are joined by Leah Hazard, an NHS midwife, author, and advocate for maternal health. Leah shares her journey from television to midwifery, revealing the profound impact her own experiences of motherhood had on her career choice. As we delve into the realities of maternity care, Leah discusses the emotional toll of being a midwife and the importance of self-advocacy for expectant mothers.

The conversation covers:

- The Journey to Midwifery: Leah’s transition from a career in television to becoming a midwife, driven by her own challenging experiences during childbirth.

- The Reality of Midwifery: the fulfilling moments of connection between midwives and their patients, alongside the stress and burnout that can accompany working in the NHS.

- Breaking the Silence on Mental Health: addressing mental health challenges faced by healthcare professionals, and Leah’s own struggles with anxiety and burnout.

- Advocating for Yourself in Maternity Care: practical advice for expectant parents on how to advocate for themselves during pregnancy and birth.

- The Reality of Early Parenthood: the often-overlooked transition from pregnancy to parenting, and the need for honest conversations about the challenges of early motherhood.

- Embracing the Teenage Years: Leah’s insights on parenting teenagers; cherish the journey and don’t fear the transition.

Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting tips, community support, engaging content: Website: netmums.com / Instagram: @netmums 

Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

In this episode of The Netmums Podcast, Wendy Golledge and Alison Perry are thrilled to welcome back the fabulous Myleene Klass, a multi-talented presenter, musician, and mum of three. Myleene shares her candid experiences of parenting, the challenges of raising teenagers, and the joys of embracing the chaos of family life.

The conversation covers:

- The Reality of Parenting Chaos: Myleene opens up about her bustling household, juggling a teenager preparing for university with younger children and the challenges of family dynamics during school holidays.

- Navigating Teenagers: The trio discusses the emotional rollercoaster of parenting teens, including the bittersweet feelings of watching them grow up and the importance of maintaining open communication.

- Miscarriage and Advocacy: Myleene shares her heartfelt journey through miscarriage and how she transformed her pain into power by campaigning for better support and care for women experiencing pregnancy loss.

- The Importance of Emotional Connection: Myleene introduces the concept of the 'Disney hug', emphasising the significance of physical affection in fostering emotional growth and connection within families.

- Reflections on Career and Identity: Myleene reflects on her multifaceted career, the cultural impact of her work, and the lessons learned along the way, including the importance of being true to oneself.

- Future Aspirations: From new music projects to continued advocacy for women's health, Myleene shares her exciting plans and the passion that drives her to make a difference.

Join us for this heartfelt discussion filled with laughter, insights, and the raw realities of motherhood. It’s a must-listen for any parent navigating the ups and downs of family life.

Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting tips, community support, engaging content: Website: netmums.com / Instagram: @netmums 

Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

This episode of The Netmums Podcast features the insightful Dr. Punam Krishan, a busy GP, mum of two, and a familiar face on BBC Morning Live. As we mark Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week, Dr. Punam shares her personal journey through motherhood, touching on sensitive themes such as birth trauma, maternal mental health, and the challenges faced by new parents.

The conversation covers:

- The Reality of Maternal Mental Health:

Dr. Punam opens up about her own experiences with postnatal depression following a traumatic birth, highlighting the importance of recognising and addressing mental health issues.

- The Struggles of a Medic Mum: 

Discussing the unique challenges faced by parents in the medical profession, Dr. Punam reflects on how her medical knowledge can sometimes lead to increased anxiety regarding her children's health.

- Understanding Baby Blues vs. Postnatal Depression:

 Dr. Punam explains the key differences between the common baby blues and more severe postnatal depression, offering valuable insights for new parents.

- The Importance of Seeking Help:

 The discussion emphasises the need for parents to advocate for their own mental health, encouraging listeners to reach out for support when needed.

- Navigating the Early Days of Motherhood:

 Dr. Punam shares practical self-care tips for new mums, emphasising the necessity of compassion and understanding towards oneself during the challenging fourth trimester.

- Breaking the Stigma: 

The conversation addresses the stigma surrounding maternal mental health, particularly within certain communities, and the importance of open dialogue to foster understanding and support.

Join us for this heartfelt and enlightening episode that aims to empower parents to prioritise their mental health and seek the support they deserve.

Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting tips, community support, engaging content: Website: netmums.com / Instagram: @netmums 

Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

In this episode of The Netmums Podcast, Wendy Golledge and Alison Perry are joined by the brilliant Casey Major Bunce, a mother of four and the creative mind behind Major Mum Hacks. Casey shares her incredible journey through motherhood, offering practical tips and life hacks that can save time, money, and sanity for busy families.

The conversation covers:

- The Reality of Family Holidays: Wendy opens up about her family's lack of overseas holidays and the honesty behind the struggles many parents face when it comes to finances and travel.

- The Power of Preparation: Casey reveals her essential hacks for managing chaotic mornings, including the famous pancake muffin hack that has transformed breakfast for her family.

- Visual Learning for Kids: The trio discusses the importance of visual aids in helping children understand daily routines and responsibilities, making mornings smoother for everyone.

- Navigating Parenthood with Neurodiversity: Casey shares her experiences as a neurodiverse parent and how it has shaped her parenting style, including her recent autism diagnosis.

- Family Outings Made Easy: From clever packing tips to keeping kids entertained on long journeys, Casey provides insights into making family outings more enjoyable and less stressful.

- Embracing Imperfection: The discussion turns to the pressures of social media and the importance of being honest about the realities of parenting, including the challenges and messiness that come with it.

Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting tips, community support, engaging content: Website: netmums.com / Instagram: @netmums 

Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

In this special bonus episode of The Netmums Podcast, guest host Louise Burke, our Editorial Director, delves into a crucial topic for modern parents: keeping our teens safe online. Joined by Tara Hopkins, Meta's Global Director of Public Policy and a fellow parent, they discuss the success of the Teen Accounts on Instagram, Facebook, and Messenger, designed to protect young users as they navigate social media.

The conversation highlights:

- Understanding Teen Accounts: Tara explains the features such as automatic protective settings that ensure a safer experience for users under 18.

- Tools for Parents: How parental supervision tools work, allowing parents to monitor their teens' activity while respecting their privacy.

- Navigating the Digital Landscape: Tara shares insights on how parents can effectively engage with their teens about social media, including the importance of having open conversations and staying curious about their online world.

- New Features on the Horizon: Listeners will learn about upcoming tools being rolled out, including restrictions on live broadcasting and nudity filters, aimed at enhancing safety for younger users.

- Tara reflects on her journey as a parent navigating social media with her own children, offering relatable anecdotes and practical advice.

Join us for this informative discussion that aims to empower you with the knowledge and tools needed to support your teens in the digital age. It’s definitely listening time well spent – it’ll arm you with everything you need to know to parent better.

Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting tips, community support, engaging content: Website: netmums.com / Instagram: @netmums 

Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

In this episode of The Netmums Podcast, Wendy Golledge and Alison Perry are joined by the absolutely delightful Alex Jones, renowned TV presenter, podcaster and mum of three, best known for her work on The One Show. In this super down to earth chat Alex shares her experiences of motherhood, the joys and challenges of raising young children (and pets!) and her recent move to the countryside.

- Birthday Reflections: Alex discusses her recent birthday celebrations and the importance of appreciating the gift of another year.

- Parenting Adventures: From ballet classes to dealing with chickenpox and broken bones, Alex shares the ups and downs of parenting young children.

- The Journey of Ageing: The trio discusses the notion of being an 'older mum' and how it has shaped Alex's parenting style and outlook on life.

- Balancing Work and Family: Alex opens up about her full-time job, the challenges of juggling work with family life, and the decisions she makes to prioritise her children.

- Home Renovations: Alex shares insights into her family's recent move to the countryside, the renovations of their new home, and how it has positively impacted their lives.

- Recommendations: Alex hosts the ‘Binge!’ podcast with McFly’s Harry Judd, and shares a snapshot of her favourite TV shows, books, and podcasts.

Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting tips, community support, engaging content: Website: netmums.com / Instagram: @netmums 

Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

In this episode of The Netmums Podcast, Wendy Golledge and Alison Perry welcome the incredibly insightful Emma Barnett, an award-winning journalist and broadcaster known for her work on BBC Radio 4's Today programme and Women's Hour. Emma, a mother of two, shares her experiences surrounding maternity leave and the often-unspoken realities of motherhood.

The conversation includes:

- The Reality of Maternity Leave: Emma discusses the challenges of feeling both isolated and in need of connection during this transformative period.

- Rebranding Maternity Leave: Emma proposes a new perspective on maternity leave, framing it as a time of service and kindness rather than just a break from work.

- The Impact of IVF: Emma opens up about her IVF journey, reflecting on the emotional rollercoaster and the importance of community support during this time.

- The Myth of Motherhood: The trio explores the romanticised notions of motherhood and how the realities often differ from expectations.

- Finding Balance: Emma shares her approach to juggling work, motherhood, and her new business venture, Claire Your Streets, while offering practical advice for parents seeking to find their footing.

Join us for a discussion that challenges the norms of motherhood and offers a fresh perspective on the journey of parenting.

Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting tips, community support, engaging content: Website: netmums.com / Instagram: @netmums 

Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative