In this episode of the Real Life Real Kitchen podcast, Zoe Willis speaks with financial literacy coach Nicole Mitchell about the intersection of motherhood and money. Nicole shares her personal journey from being in debt to becoming a financial coach, emphasizing the importance of mindset over math in managing finances. They discuss the challenges of financial education, the impact of social media on spending habits, and the significance of creating a balanced spending plan. Nicole also highlights the need for financial literacy among teenagers and college students, offering insights into how parents can foster a positive money mindset in their children.

Welcome to the Real Life. Real Kitchen Podcast with your host, Zoë F. Willis, English mother-of-many, Mum Mentor, and your host at this weekly gathering of real talk, real food, and real family life.

Nicole is a financial literacy coach who teaches all the real life money skills we should have learned in school.

1. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/create.wealthy.futures
2. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/wealthypersonalfinancegirls

📝 Command the Chaos – The Mum Life Management Planner

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Mindset is crucial in managing finances, often more than the math itself.

Frugality and conscious spending can lead to financial freedom.

Social media can create unrealistic financial expectations and comparisons.

Creating a spending plan allows for both saving and enjoyment of money.

Financial education is lacking in schools, leading to cycles of poor money management.

Different coaching styles can appeal to various demographics in financial literacy.

Teaching teens about money should be relatable to their experiences.

Empowering young adults with financial knowledge can lead to better decision-making.

Creativity in finding ways to earn money is essential for financial independence.

Parents should reflect on their own money beliefs to positively influence their children.

In this episode of the Real Life Real Kitchen podcast, host Zoe Willis engages with freelance journalist Kerry Parnell, who shares her insights into the British royal family. They discuss the evolution of royal public perception, the pressures and responsibilities faced by royals, and the impact of media on their lives. Kerry reflects on her journey into royal commentary, the historical context of royal family dynamics, and the parenting styles within the royal family. The conversation also touches on the legacy of primogeniture and the unique challenges that modern royals face, concluding with valuable takeaways for listeners.

Welcome to the Real Life. Real Kitchen Podcast with your host, Zoë F. Willis, English mother-of-many, Mum Mentor, and your host at this weekly gathering of real talk, real food, and real family life.

Kerry is a freelance journalist who writes for UK, Australian and US newspapers and magazines, covering all things royal, as well as travel and lifestyle writing. She is co-editor of The Royal List newsletter on Substack and The British Travel List.

1. Website: https://theroyallist.substack.com/
2. Website: https://thebritishtravellist.substack.com/
3. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_royallist
4. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theroyallistnews/
5. Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SecretsoftheRoyals
6. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerry-parnell-a611b537/?originalSubdomain=uk

📝 Command the Chaos – The Mum Life Management Planner

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💌 Join The Kitchen Correspondence – my weekly newsletter with episodes, reflections & family food wisdom

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☕ Support the Show – help keep the kettle on and the podcast going

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If this episode made you nod, laugh, or breathe a little deeper then please:

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2. Leave a short review (it really helps!)
3. Share this episode with a fellow mum who might be quietly asking the same questions

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1. Kerry Parnell transitioned from lifestyle journalism to royal commentary.
2. The Queen's unexpected ascension to the throne shaped her reign.
3. Television changed the public's perception of the royal family.
4. Royals live under immense public scrutiny and pressure.
5. The concept of legacy is crucial in royal families.
6. Parenting styles in the royal family have evolved over time.
7. Diana's parenting approach was significantly different from previous royals.
8. Historical context is essential to understanding royal dynamics.
9. Media has transformed the way royals manage their public image.
10. The royal family faces modern challenges that require adaptation.

In this episode of the Real Life Real Kitchen podcast, Zoë F. Willis speaks with Angela Iacobellis, a life insurance agent and family financial planner. They discuss the importance of financial planning for families, particularly for new moms, and how to engage them in conversations about financial security. Angela shares her personal journey into financial planning, the significance of life insurance, and the need for regular financial reviews. They also touch on the evolving landscape of education and career paths for children, the importance of legacy and charitable giving, and how to balance family financial goals with budgeting.

Welcome to the Real Life. Real Kitchen Podcast with your host, Zoë F. Willis, English mother-of-many, Mum Mentor, and your host at this weekly gathering of real talk, real food, and real family life.

Angela Iacobellis is an independent life insurance and retirement strategist who helps young families use smart, tax-efficient strategies to build wealth, protect income, and plan for retirement and college—often with tax-free money. After her father’s unexpected passing, Angela saw how quickly financial decisions can shape a family’s future, particularly when it comes to retirement. That experience fuels her commitment to helping families put strong plans in place before life forces their hand. With over a decade in financial services, she’s known for straight talk, thoughtful strategy, and zero cookie-cutter solutions. She serves on the boards of WIFS–Los Angeles and the Giving From the Heart Foundation, and regularly hosts educational workshops focused on practical, real-life money decisions for growing families. When she’s not working with clients, you’ll find her lifting weights, reading, or grilling a good steak—preferably with a gin martini (no olives).

1. Website: https://www.angelaiacobellis.com/
2. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angela4homes/
3. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela4homes/

📝 Command the Chaos – The Mum Life Management Planner

https://shorturl.at/bbzm7

💌 Join The Kitchen Correspondence – my weekly newsletter with episodes, reflections & family food wisdom

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☕ Support the Show – help keep the kettle on and the podcast going

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If this episode made you nod, laugh, or breathe a little deeper then please:

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2. Leave a short review (it really helps!)
3. Share this episode with a fellow mum who might be quietly asking the same questions

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Financial planning is crucial for families, especially new parents.

Life insurance can provide financial security for families.

Engaging young families in financial planning can start as early as preschool.

It's important to regularly review and adjust financial plans as family circumstances change.

Mothers play a vital role in financial planning and should be valued accordingly.

Budgeting should prioritize saving for the future before paying bills.

Balancing financial goals requires compromise between family members.

Education should not be limited to traditional paths; flexibility is key.

Legacy planning and charitable giving are important aspects of financial planning.

Financial planning can provide freedom and options for families.

In this episode of the Real Life. Real Kitchen. podcast, host Zoe Willis speaks with wealth mindset and self-leadership coach Kayleigh Provins about the intricate relationship between money, family dynamics, and personal beliefs. They explore how societal norms and gender roles shape our perceptions of money, the importance of communication in financial discussions, and practical tips for fostering a positive money mindset. Kayleigh shares her journey into wealth coaching and emphasizes the need for gratitude in financial interactions, while also addressing the emotional aspects of money management.

Welcome to the Real Life. Real Kitchen Podcast with your host, Zoë F. Willis, English mother-of-many, Mum Mentor, and your host at this weekly gathering of real talk, real food, and real family life.

I help established female business owners reconnect with who they really are beneath the pressure, release the emotional and mindset blocks keeping them stuck, and lead their business from a place of deep self-trust and alignment.

My mission is simple: To empower women in business to create a life where success feels natural, decisions are led by self-trust, and abundance flows in all forms. I believe true wealth isn’t something you achieve, it’s something you are. It’s about living in alignment with your values, desires, and inner power.

1. Website: https://kayleighprovins.com/
2. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kayleighprovins_
3. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleighprovins/
4. Podcast The Wealthiest You: https://shorturl.at/vbaJp

📝 Command the Chaos – The Mum Life Management Planner

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💌 Join The Kitchen Correspondence – my weekly newsletter with episodes, reflections & family food wisdom

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☕ Support the Show – help keep the kettle on and the podcast going

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If this episode made you nod, laugh, or breathe a little deeper then please:

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2. Leave a short review (it really helps!)
3. Share this episode with a fellow mum who might be quietly asking the same questions

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Takeaways:

1. Kayleigh Provin emphasizes that true wealth is not merely a financial achievement, but rather an intrinsic state of being that aligns with one's values and desires.
2. Understanding the emotional roots of financial behavior is crucial, as many women's fears around money stem from historical societal structures that limit autonomy.
3. The conversation around money within families must shift from mere numerical assessments to deeper discussions about values, desires, and emotional experiences.
4. A significant barrier to financial confidence among women is the pervasive belief that they are not capable or knowledgeable enough to manage finances effectively.
5. To foster a healthy relationship with money, one must cultivate gratitude for financial resources rather than viewing them solely as burdens or responsibilities.
6. Regular and open communication about finances, grounded in understanding and curiosity, is essential for couples to navigate their financial dynamics harmoniously.

In this episode of the Real Life Real Kitchen podcast, host Zoe Willis interviews Katherine Hale, CEO and founder of Thrive in Motherhood. They discuss the concept of matrescence, the transition from womanhood to motherhood, and the unique challenges faced by corporate moms. Katherine shares insights on the pressures of perfectionism, the importance of community support, and the need for career clarity. They explore the significance of recognizing seasons of life, setting boundaries, and prioritizing self-care for mothers. The conversation emphasizes the empowerment of women through coaching and the importance of redefining success in motherhood.

Welcome to the Real Life. Real Kitchen Podcast with your host, Zoë F. Willis, English mother-of-many, Mum Mentor, and your host at this weekly gathering of real talk, real food, and real family life.

Each week I sit down with someone whose work nourishes minds, bodies, or communities. From the kitchen table to the wider world, these are the quiet voices making a loud difference.

Katherine is CEO and Founder of Thrive in Motherhood. She supports driven, high-achieving career women in early motherhood to achieve career success without sacrificing time with their family or their health. She also works with organisations to strengthen their leadership pipelines, reduce attrition rates and enhance retention by helping them focus on the wellbeing of female talent.

1. Website: https://www.thriveinmotherhood.co.uk
2. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrive_in_motherhood
3. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-allt-4221b726/

📝 Command the Chaos – The Mum Life Management Planner

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💌 Join The Kitchen Correspondence – my weekly newsletter with episodes, reflections & family food wisdom

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☕ Support the Show – help keep the kettle on and the podcast going

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If this episode made you nod, laugh, or breathe a little deeper then please:

1. Follow or subscribe to the show
2. Leave a short review (it really helps!)
3. Share this episode with a fellow mum who might be quietly asking the same questions

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1. Matrescence is the transition from womanhood to motherhood.
2. Women experience significant changes in identity and values after becoming mothers.
3. Corporate moms often feel torn between their career and motherhood.
4. Burnout is a common issue for high-achieving mothers.
5. Perfectionism can lead to stress and feelings of inadequacy in motherhood.
6. Community support is crucial for mothers to feel connected and understood.
7. Career clarity is essential for mothers to navigate their professional lives.
8. Recognizing seasons of life can help women manage their responsibilities better.
9. Setting boundaries is vital for maintaining mental health and well-being.
10. Women should prioritize self-care to be the best mothers they can be.

In this episode of the Real Life Real Kitchen podcast, host Zoe Willis engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Liz Corcoran, a functional medicine doctor and psychiatrist. Dr. Corcoran shares her journey into medicine, driven by a natural curiosity about human behavior and a desire to help others, particularly those with special needs in her family. She discusses the differences between psychiatry and psychology, emphasizing the importance of understanding the whole person rather than just their symptoms. Dr. Corcoran highlights the complexity of mental health, which is influenced by a person's history, culture, and biology, and the necessity of building trust and rapport in the healing process.

As the conversation progresses, Dr. Corcoran explains her transition to functional medicine, which focuses on addressing the root causes of health issues rather than merely treating symptoms. She discusses the significance of nutrition and lifestyle changes in improving health outcomes, particularly for children. The episode also touches on the importance of family dynamics in fostering healthy eating habits and the role of the microbiome in overall well-being. Dr. Corcoran provides practical advice for families looking to make healthier choices, emphasizing that small, incremental changes can lead to significant improvements in health and vitality.

Welcome to the Real Life. Real Kitchen Podcast with your host, Zoë F. Willis, English mother-of-many, Mum Mentor, and your host at this weekly gathering of real talk, real food, and real family life.

Each week I sit down with someone whose work nourishes minds, bodies, or communities. From the kitchen table to the wider world, these are the quiet voices making a loud difference.

Dr Liz has a passion for empowering people to restore their health through changing how they interact with their world. Through her own and family members’ struggles with health she was led to Functional Medicine. She graduated Royal Free University College London in 2005 and completed MRCPsych training in psychiatry. She has completed further education with the Institute of Functional Medicine and is a Certified Practitioner.

1. Website: bit.ly/drlizcorcoran
2. Instagram: @drlizcorcoran
3. Facebook: https://www.instagram.com/drlizcorcoran/
4. Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@drelizabethcorcoran5912

🥒 Dr. Liz's Freebies – Checklists to reset your children's health

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📝 Command the Chaos – The Mum Life Management Planner

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If this episode made you nod, laugh, or breathe a little deeper — please:

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3. Share this episode with a fellow mum who might be quietly asking the same questions

1. 📸 Instagram – @realliferealkitchen
2. 👩‍👧‍👦 Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/realliferealkitchen
3. ▶️ YouTube Channel – https://www.youtube.com/@Realliferealkitchen
4. 🏡 Website – www.realliferealkitchen.com

"Being nosy is a good way to be."

"The body is not a series of soloists; it's an orchestra."

"Food is information; it can change your biology."

"You have a lot more control and autonomy than you ever realized."

"Healing occurs through the relationship you have with the person."

"Small incremental changes can lead to significant improvements in health."

"The microbiome is like a cushion between us and the outside world."

"Nutrition and lifestyle medicine is precision medicine."

"The body has a number of core underlying functions that happen all the time."

"We need to think about the whole person, not just their symptoms."

In this episode of the Real Life Real Kitchen podcast, host Zoe Willis speaks with Laura Bloomberg, a specialist in dyslexia and specific learning difficulties. They discuss Laura's journey into the field, the complexities of dyslexia, and the importance of understanding individual learning profiles. The conversation highlights the overlap between dyslexia and other conditions, the challenges faced by dyslexic learners in traditional education systems, and the need for tailored teaching strategies. Laura emphasizes the strengths of dyslexic individuals and advocates for better training and support for educators to empower them in helping all learners succeed. In this conversation, Zoe & Laura discuss the challenges faced by children with learning difficulties, particularly dyslexia. They explore the need for better training for teachers, the importance of understanding and supporting neurodiverse learners, and the stigma surrounding learning challenges. Practical strategies for parents and educators are shared, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and communication. The discussion also touches on the significance of working memory in learning and the need for effective reading comprehension strategies.

Welcome to the Real Life. Real Kitchen Podcast with your host, Zoë F. Willis, English mother-of-many, Mum Mentor, and your host at this weekly gathering of real talk, real food, and real family life.

Each week I sit down with someone whose work nourishes minds, bodies, or communities. From the kitchen table to the wider world, these are the quiet voices making a loud difference.

Laura Bloomberg (BEd Hons, Dip RSA), founder of Dyslexia Understood, has had over 30 years’ teaching experience in state and private schools. She is a specialist dyslexia teacher (Level 5 OCR) and previously an assessor (Level 7 OCR). Laura works with local authorities, schools, and parents, helping to remove barriers to learning for pupils with specific learning difficulties (SpLD). She is also an accredited trainer on the evidence-based ‘Inference Training – Reading Comprehension Intervention’ programme and she delivers training online in the UK and Internationally. Laura also delivered the Level 5 OCR Diploma in ‘Teaching Learners with Dyslexia/Specific Learning Differences’ and was a visiting lecturer at the University of Hertfordshire, School of Education. Laura is also a qualified NLP Mindset Coach, EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique – Energy Tapping) Practitioner and a Hypnotherapist.

1. Website: http://www.dyslexiaunderstood.co.uk
2. Email: [email protected]

📝 Command the Chaos – The Mum Life Management Planner

https://realliferealkitchen.com/mum-life-management-planner/

💌 Join The Kitchen Correspondence – my weekly letter with episodes, reflections & family food wisdom

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☕ Support the Show – help keep the kettle on and the podcast going

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If this episode made you nod, laugh, or breathe a little deeper — please:

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2. Leave a short review (it really helps!)
3. Share this episode with a fellow mum who might be quietly asking the same questions

1. 📸 Instagram – @realliferealkitchen
2. 👩‍👧‍👦 Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/realliferealkitchen
3. ▶️ YouTube Channel – https://www.youtube.com/@Realliferealkitchen
4. 🏡 Website – www.realliferealkitchen.com

1. Laura Bloomberg has over 30 years of teaching experience.
2. Dyslexia falls under the umbrella of specific learning difficulties (SPLD).
3. Neurodiversity includes various conditions like dyslexia, ADHD, and autism.
4. Understanding each child's unique profile is crucial for effective support.
5. Dyslexia is primarily a processing difficulty affecting reading and writing.
6. Teaching strategies should be multi-sensory to engage dyslexic learners.
7. Dyslexia can be seen as a superpower, fostering creativity and resilience.
8. The education system often lacks adequate support for dyslexic students.
9. Parents and educators need to work together to support dyslexic learners.
10. 10% of the UK population is estimated to have dyslexia. Only 10% of teachers receive training on learning difficulties.
11. Empowering mothers to take control of family life is crucial.
12. More training on specific learning difficulties is needed for teachers.
13. All neurodiverse difficulties need to be recognized and supported.
14. Confidence is the best gift for dyslexic learners.
15. Collaboration between parents and teachers is essential.
16. Working memory is a key factor in learning challenges.
17. Copying tasks can overload a child's working memory.
18. Reading comprehension skills need to be explicitly taught.
19. Dyscalculia is an important topic that deserves attention.

In this episode of the Real Life Real Kitchen podcast, host Zoë Willis speaks with Carly Church, founder of We've Got Your Mama https://wegotyoumama.com/, about her journey from the entertainment industry to creating a supportive community for mothers. Carly shares her insights on the importance of maternal mental health, the loneliness epidemic among new parents, and the need for supportive systems.

They discuss the challenges mothers face, the significance of community, and the role of technology in parenting. Carly emphasizes the importance of financial literacy for mothers and the need for flexible work models to support families. The conversation highlights the necessity of empowering mothers to set boundaries and advocate for their needs, ultimately aiming to create a more supportive environment for mothers everywhere.

Welcome to the Real Life. Real Kitchen Podcast with your host, Zoë F. Willis, English mother-of-many, Mum Mentor, and your host at this weekly gathering of real talk, real food, and real family life.

Each week I sit down with someone whose work nourishes minds, bodies, or communities. From the kitchen table to the wider world, these are the quiet voices making a loud difference.

Carly Church is a mother of three, former entertainment industry professional, and the founder of We Got You Mama—a growing platform, podcast, and movement dedicated to supporting mothers through pregnancy, postpartum, and every stage beyond. She is also the author of We Got You Mama: The No-Nonsense, Expert-Packed Guide to Going from Surviving to Thriving, the firstof what will be a series designed to help mothers feel supported, informed, and empowered during one of the most vulnerable seasons of their lives.

Known for her refreshingly honest voice, sharp humor, and deep empathy, Carly brings both lived experience and thought leadership to conversations around maternal mental health, postpartum wellness, and the systemic gaps that leave so many mothers unsupported. After navigating anxiety, depression, and years of undiagnosed ADHD, she experienced firsthand how motherhood can both crack you open—and reveal how little infrastructure exists to truly care for moms. That realization sparked the creation of We Got You Mama, where Carly now builds expert collaborations, books, retreats, and tools that help women build their village and move from survival mode into sustainable thriving.

As a speaker and guest, Carly is equal parts insightful and hilarious, blending storytelling, research, and real talk to spark connection, relief, and meaningful change.

Now You Know What to Do List - https://wegotyoumama.com/

When a baby arrives, everyone wants to help — but most people don’t actually know how to help in a way that truly supports mom.

The Now You Know What to Do List is a beautifully designed, easy-to-share printable that takes the guesswork out of showing up. It offers clear, practical, and compassionate ways friends, family, and loved ones can provide real support — the kind that actually makes a difference.

From meals and errands to emotional check-ins and household help, this list turns good intentions into meaningful action. And truthfully? These reminders are welcomed at every age and stage of motherhood, not just the newborn days. Because support shouldn’t be awkward. And moms shouldn’t have to ask for what they need.

• Website: https://wegotyoumama.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/we.got.you.mama/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@WeGotYouMama
• Email: [email protected]

📝 Command the Chaos – The Mum Life Management Planner

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If this episode made you nod, laugh, or breathe a little deeper — please:

• Follow or subscribe to the show
• Leave a short review (it really helps!)
• Share this episode with a fellow mum who might be quietly asking the same questions

• 📸 Instagram – @realliferealkitchen
• 👩‍👧‍👦 Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/realliferealkitchen
• ▶️ YouTube Channel – https://www.youtube.com/@Realliferealkitchen
• 🏡 Website – www.realliferealkitchen.com

• Carly Church transitioned from the entertainment industry to support mothers.
• Maternal mental health is a critical issue that needs more attention.
• Community support is essential for mothers navigating postpartum challenges.
• Loneliness is a significant factor affecting new parents' mental health.
• The current systems often fail to support mothers adequately.
• Advocating for maternal mental health can save lives.
• Setting boundaries is crucial for mothers' well-being.
• Financial literacy is important for mothers to manage their resources effectively.
• Technology can be a valuable tool in supporting motherhood.
• Creating a supportive environment for mothers benefits society as a whole.

In this episode of the Real Life Real Kitchen podcast, Zoe Willis interviews Bonnie Landry of the Make Joy Normal podcast. They discuss the importance of seeking joy in parenting, the journey of homeschooling, and the philosophy of discipline that focuses on teaching rather than punishment.

Bonnie shares her insights on resilience, self-care, and managing clutter in the home, emphasizing that parenting is a journey filled with challenges and opportunities for growth. In this conversation, Bonnie and Zoe explore the challenges and strategies of managing home life, particularly for mothers. They discuss the importance of recognizing life stages, embracing incremental changes, and creating calm spaces that reflect personal values. The dialogue emphasizes minimalism, the balance between professional cleaning tips and real-life parenting, and the significance of gratitude in daily life. Ultimately, they highlight the need for boundaries and simplicity to foster a more manageable and fulfilling home environment.

Welcome to the Real Life. Real Kitchen Podcast with your host, Zoë F. Willis, English mother-of-many, Mum Mentor, and your host at this weekly gathering of real talk, real food, and real family life.

Each week I sit down with someone whose work nourishes minds, bodies, or communities. From the kitchen table to the wider world, these are the quiet voices making a loud difference.

Bonnie Landry is an ordinary Catholic wife and mom, living on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada with her family.  She and her husband Albert have raised (and are still raising) seven children who range in age from 18-37.  Four are now married, and the avalanche of grand-babies has begun.

Bonnie’s mission is joy.  Living simply, discipline with dignity, fostering community and encouraging others are all central to her life.  This mission encourages others to be present to the people they love.

She strives to make joy normal. 

Homeschooling her kids for the last thirty two years confirms that strong relationships are fundamental for success in education.  And the rest of life.  Life is kind of a bust if you can’t get along with people.  

• Website: https://www.bonnielandry.ca/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/make.joy.normal/
• Other: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1052191

📝 Command the Chaos – The Mum Life Management Planner

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💌 Join The Kitchen Correspondence – my weekly letter with episodes, reflections & family food wisdom

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☕ Support the Show – help keep the kettle on and the podcast going

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If this episode made you nod, laugh, or breathe a little deeper — please:

• Follow or subscribe to the show
• Leave a short review (it really helps!)
• Share this episode with a fellow mum who might be quietly asking the same questions

• 📸 Instagram – @realliferealkitchen
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• ▶️ YouTube Channel – https://www.youtube.com/@Realliferealkitchen
• 🏡 Website – www.realliferealkitchen.com

·     Support parents in seeking joy.

·     Homeschooling can be child-led and interest-driven.

·     Discipline should focus on teaching rather than punishment.

·     Resilience is crucial for parents and children.

·     Self-care is essential for effective parenting.

·     Clutter can overwhelm and affect mental health.

·     Small, consistent efforts can lead to a decluttered home.

·     Finding joy in parenting is a journey, not a destination.

·     Forgiveness is important in the parenting journey.

·     Creating a supportive environment helps in parenting. Learning how to manage is key.

·     Incremental change can lead to huge transformation.

·     Confidence is a huge component of this.

·     Your space should reflect how you want your brain to be.

·     What do we actually need?

·     We need to keep it simple for our sanity.

·     You can always whip something up.

·     The practice of gratitude can turn everything around.

·     Finding freedom within boundaries is key.

·     It's about being easier on yourself.

In this episode of the Real Life Real Kitchen podcast, host Zoe F. Willis engages in a heartfelt conversation with midwife Lisa Nicholls, who shares her extensive, 35-year experience in midwifery and the journey that led her from Texas to the UK.

The discussion covers various aspects of childbirth, including the human element of midwifery, the balance between motherhood and career, and the differences between community and hospital midwifery.

Lisa emphasizes the importance of creating a comfortable birth environment, understanding the roles of obstetricians and midwives, and the significance of listening to mothers' instincts.

The conversation also touches on the emotional and spiritual aspects of childbirth, particularly in relation to the Christmas season, highlighting the miracle of birth and the unconditional love between a mother and her child.

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·     Midwifery combines science and art, emphasizing the human element.

·     Every birth is unique and cannot be fully captured in textbooks.

·     Creating a comfortable environment is crucial for a positive birth experience.

·     Mothers should advocate for themselves and trust their instincts.

·     The role of a midwife is to support and empower mothers during childbirth.

·     Balancing motherhood and a career in midwifery can be challenging but rewarding.

·     Community midwives often build stronger relationships with mothers than hospital midwives.

·     Understanding the medical perspective of obstetricians helps in making informed decisions.

·     Due dates are not always accurate and should be discussed with healthcare providers.

·     The experience of childbirth is transformative and filled with unconditional love.