Parenting is a journey with its own set of challenges. But when you add special educational needs into the mix, that journey takes a unique turn. This week on The Netmums Podcast, Wendy Gollage and Alison Perry are joined by comedy writer and producer Ashley Blaker, a father of six, three of whom have special educational needs. Ashley is not only a parent navigating this complex world but also the author of the book "Normal Schnormal" and is currently touring the UK with his show of the same name.

Ashley opens up about the unconventional path that led him to adopt his daughter with Down Syndrome, the rigorous and sometimes bizarre adoption assessment process, and the joys and trials of raising neurodiverse children. From the innocence of his teenage daughter to the challenges of playdates and school systems, Ashley’s candid and often humorous insights offer a refreshing perspective on parenting SEND children.

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

On this week’s episode of The Netmums Podcast we get a taste of the chaotic world of a parent and entrepreneur: Tom Skinner; star of The Apprentice, and a father of 3 sits down with Wendyand Alison to chat about raising three young kids, including a pair of twins. Tom shares his rollercoaster journey from boardroom battles with Lord Sugar to the negotiations with toddlers that leave him baffled and outwitted at home!

Tom's heartfelt (and hilarious) storytelling as he recounts the dramatic birth of his twins, and his experience of fatherhood in general will have you on tenterhooks AND in stitches! From cooking with his son to the famous spaghetti hoop fiascos, Tom imparts wisdom on involving kids in meal prep to foster a love for diverse, nutritious foods. 


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

“No snowflake thinks they’ve caused the avalanche”.

This episode of the Netmums Podcast dives into mental health, online culture, and finding balance in the avalanche of social media.
Wendy Gollage and Alison Perry welcome Zara McDermott, a media personality and documentary maker, to discuss the digital age's impact on our children and society. From the startling statistic that a quarter of five to seven-year-olds now own smartphones, to exploring the darker side of internet sleuths and the spread of fake news, this conversation delves into the complexities of parenting in today’s tech-savvy world. 
Zara also shares her personal experiences with revenge porn and the effects of body image pressures post-Love Island. Plus, get an inside look at her new clothing brand, Rise which recently launched in Tesco stores. 


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

Wendy Golledge and Alison Perry sit down with the remarkable Liz Earle, a true beacon in the wellness industry with over three decades of experience. Liz, a (now Sunday Times) best-selling author, TV presenter, and podcast host, dives deep into the transformative journey of midlife, discussing her latest triumph, 'A Better Second Half'.  Liz's message is clear: embrace pro-aging, find your purpose, and seize the joy in every moment.
Liz's candid conversation sheds light on the often overlooked and marginalised world of women's health in midlife, offering a treasure trove of evidence-based techniques and wisdom to thrive, not just survive. From debunking myths to embracing the ageing process, Liz advocates for self-care as a non-negotiable priority and shares her personal anecdotes, including the surprise of her 'autumn leaf' baby at 47.
She also touches on the profound impact of honest conversations about our health and the importance of smashing taboos, particularly around ageing and menopause. Liz's refreshing perspective is a call to action for women to reclaim their health and vitality, armed with simple yet life-altering daily habits and routines.
Listen for practical tips for a better start and end to your day, and make your second half of life your best yet.

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

Alison Perry is flying solo in this episode and sits down with TV presenter and property developer, Laura Hamilton. Known for whisking hopeful homeowners to dreamy locales on "A Place in the Sun," Laura, mum of two, spills her best-kept secrets for travelling with kids, from essential travel gear to encouraging adventurous eating.
Laura talks about her entrepreneurial side, and also shares her philosophy of integrating children into her dynamic lifestyle, starting from their first passport photos at just three weeks old. She advocates for the power of travel in teaching kids people skills, confidence, and an appreciation for different cultures and ways of life.


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

Wendy and Alison are joined by Dr. Chris Van Tulleken, infectious diseases doctor and familiar face from CBBC's Operation Ouch. Chris discusses his latest book, "Ultra Processed People," which dives into the world of ultra-processed foods and their profound impact on our health, especially that of our children.

Chris unpacks the definition of ultra-processed foods, their addictive qualities, and the perils of a diet dominated by these products. He addresses the elephant in the room: the role of big food companies in perpetuating the consumption of these foods and the urgent need for government regulation.

This conversation doesn't shy away from the tough questions. From the link between ultra-processed foods and ADHD to the childhood obesity crisis, Chris provides a nuanced perspective on health beyond the scales. He calls for action, not just from the top down but also from each one of us, as parents navigating the daily challenges of feeding our families.

Follow Dr Chris on Instagram @doctorchrisvt and buy his book "Ultra Processed People" here

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

This episode of the Netmums Podcast is brought to you by Johnson's Baby, the family favourite brand that's gentle on babys’ skin. 

In this episode of The Netmums Podcast, hosts Wendy Golledge and Alison Perry delve into the often-exhausting world of baby sleep with the award-winning parenting and baby sleep expert, Heidi Skudder. With a wealth of experience as a former nanny, maternity nurse, and mother, Heidi has been the guiding light for countless parents, including celebrities like Perry Edwards and Stacey Solomon. She brings her expertise to the podcast, discussing the often-misunderstood topics of colic, tongue-tie, silent reflux, and the impact of diet on a baby's sleep.

Heidi also sheds light on the importance of the fourth trimester, advocating for post-birth recovery and the need to slow down in those early weeks. She offers reassurance to parents; don’t worry - you cannot spoil a baby with cuddles! 

Heidi's new book, 'Your Positive Baby Sleep Book,' is full of wisdom for any parent seeking guidance. 
Stay connected with Netmums for more parenting tips, community support, engaging content: Website: netmums.com / Instagram: @netmums 

Joining Alison and Wendy on this final episode of series 12 of the Netmums podcast is the nation's favourite PE teacher, Joe Wicks.
In his third appearance on the podcast, Joe opens up about his love of the chaos that comes with an expanding family, from the trials of travelling with toddlers, to how he and his wife Rosie navigate meal times. Joe delves into the importance of fostering a love for movement in our children and shares his personal approach to ensuring his kids embrace a healthy lifestyle without the reliance on constant snacking.

Joe also talks about his new book, 'Fitter, Healthier, Happier,' and its focus on educating kids about both their bodies and their minds.

Tune in for an honest, heartfelt conversation with the Body Coach himself, and maybe even pick up a tip or two for your next family adventure or mealtime strategy.

Find out more about Joe's journey and his new book at his website and follow his adventures on Instagram @thebodycoach and grab your copy of Fitter, Healthier, Happier’.

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

In this episode of The Netmums Podcast, Alison Perry flies solo to bring us a delightful conversation with Rebecca Wilson, the Sunday Times bestselling author and culinary maestro behind "Budget Family Food." With a focus on feeding families in a budget-friendly way, Rebecca shares her journey from a new mum seeking a creative outlet to a social media sensation with over half a million followers.

Rebecca dives into the nitty-gritty of her latest book, which brims with tips for saving money on family meals without sacrificing variety or nutrition. She discusses the importance of pantry staples, the challenge of food waste, and the clever use of leftovers to stretch the family food budget further. 

Rebecca's book "Budget Family Food" is available now, offering families the chance to whip up delicious, cost-effective meals that bring everyone to the table.
Find Rebecca on Instagram @rebeccawilsonfood

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

In this episode of The Netmums Podcast, hosts Wendy Golledge and Alison Perry chat to the multi-talented Ben Miller. Known for his work in "The Armstrong and Miller Show," "Death in Paradise," and "Bridgerton," Ben is also a bestselling children's author. His latest book, "Diary of a Big Bad Wolf," turns classic fairytales on their heads, offering a fresh perspective from the eyes of infamous characters.

Ben delves into his World Book Day woes with his daughter's costume choices, the challenges of raising teenagers, and the profound impact of reading on children’s developing brains. He also shares the heartwarming moments of meeting his young readers and the importance of humour in children's literature.

Ben also lets us in on an ambition for the future: his coffee cart dream! Not only that, Wendy and Alison get a barista lesson and debate who’s coffee order is the most sophisticated… 

This brilliantly chatty episode is packed with laugh out loud moments (and you may just get some inspiration for World Book Day costumes which is great news if you’re a competitive fancy dress parent like Ben!)

Ben’s latest book ‘Diary of a Big Bad Wolf’ is out on 14th March 2024 and available to pre-order now - find out more about this and all of Ben’s other children’s books here: https://www.simonandschuster.co.uk/authors/Ben-Miller/100920632

Follow Ben on Instagram: @actualbenmiller


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