The Netmums Podcast

On this week’s Netmums podcast, Louise Burke and JB Gill are joined by olympic gold medallist and mum of three, Rebecca Adlington, for a very honest conversation about parenting, baby loss and learning to keep going.Rebecca talks openly about experiencing two miscarriages, the counselling that helped her and her husband through it, and the anxiety that can come with expecting a rainbow baby. She also shares the small things that helped her family cope – including giving her bump a nickname, ‘jellytot’, so the whole family could bond with the baby.Alongside the emotional side of parenting, Rebecca also explains why learning to swim is a life skill, not just a sport – and why she believes three to five years old is the ideal age for children to start proper swimming lessons.The episode also covers the real challenges parents face around swimming – from nervous children and reluctant swimmers, to the moment many girls start to feel self-conscious about their bodies in swimwear as they get older.In this episode we talk about:• pregnancy after loss and the reality of a rainbow baby• how partners can support mums through miscarriage and grief• why counselling helped Rebecca and her husband process loss• the importance of teaching children to swim• the best age to start swimming lessons for kids• helping children build confidence in the water• when body image can start to affect girls and swimmingThis episode of The Netmums Podcast is brought to you by Aldi Mamia.Read more expert help on Netmums.com and join the conversation on socials @Netmums.JB and Louise also want to hear your parenting stories, questions and dilemmas! So please share them with us at thenetmumspodcast@netmums.com and we can bring you into the conversations that matter on The Netmums Podcast.This podcast is brought to you by Netmums: backed by experts, trusted by parents. Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

This week on The Netmums Podcast, JB and Louise are joined by the most dynamic mother-daughter duo on TV, The Traitors stars Roxy and Judy Wilson. They share their remarkable journey from adoption to motherhood; Roxy opens up about her experiences growing up in foster care and how her relationship with Judy has shaped her life.With Roxy expecting her first child and Judy preparing to be a grandmother for the twelfth time, the conversation covers the joys and challenges of parenting, the importance of stability, and the unconditional love that defines their bond.In this episode:- Roxy reflects on her childhood and the impact of being adopted by Judy.- Insights into the nurturing environment that Judy created for Roxy and her siblings.- The emotional journey of becoming a mother.- A frank discussion about fostering, adoption, and the need for more foster carers in the UK.- Tips for new parents navigating the early days of parenthood.This episode of The Netmums Podcast is brought to you by Aldi Mamia.Read more expert help on Netmums.com and join the conversation on socials @Netmums.JB and Louise also want to hear your parenting stories, questions and dilemmas! So please share them with us at thenetmumspodcast@netmums.com and we can bring you into the conversations that matter on The Netmums Podcast.This podcast is brought to you by Netmums: backed by experts, trusted by parents. Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

In this episode of The Netmums Podcast, JB Gill and Louise Burke dive into the often unspoken role of the ‘default parent’ (the one who knows the school schedule, the birthday party details, and the ins and outs of family life). Joining them is Lou Beckett, writer, former teacher, and mother of two – and also wife of comedian Rob Beckett. Her new book, Lessons from a Default Parent, sheds light on the realities of being the one who takes on the lion’s share of the parenting load.Lou shares her personal motherhood journey, discussing the gradual realisation of her default parent status and the complexities that come with it – and how to survive. In this episode:- The emotional and practical challenges of being the default parent- Insights into the dynamics of parenting roles and the impact on relationships- Plenty of laughs and relatable stories from Lou's experiences- The importance of communication and understanding in co-parentingGrab your copy of Lessons from a Default Parent by Lou Beckett, available now.This episode of The Netmums Podcast is brought to you by Aldi Mamia.Read more expert help on Netmums.com and join the conversation on socials @Netmums.JB and Louise also want to hear your parenting stories, questions and dilemmas! So please share them with us at thenetmumspodcast@netmums.com and we can bring you into the conversations that matter on The Netmums Podcast.This podcast is brought to you by Netmums: backed by experts, trusted by parents. Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

In this episode of The Netmums Podcast, JB and Louise delve into the complexities of parenting and the often overwhelming mental load that comes with it. Joined by journalist and TV presenter Ranvir Singh, a familiar face from Good Morning Britain, they explore the challenges of juggling family life as a single parent while maintaining a successful career.In this episode:- The realities of balancing work and family commitments, especially during busy school terms.- Ranvir shares her personal experiences as a single mother and how she navigates her son's growing independence.- The importance of being present for your children and how to manage feelings of guilt.- Honest discussions about the pressures of parenting, including the challenges of sleepovers and social dynamics at school.- Tips for dealing with overwhelm and the significance of focusing on what truly matters each day.This episode is packed with relatable insights and practical advice for anyone struggling to find balance as parents navigating increasingly hectic lives. Connect with us on socials @Netmums and visit our website: netmums.comThis podcast is brought to you by Netmums: backed by experts, trusted by parents. Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

**Sensitive content warning: This conversation explores some very serious themes, including self-harm, depression and sexual references. Please take care while listeningWe’re back for a brand new series of The Netmums Podcast! Meet your new parent hosts, TV presenter and JLS singer, JB Gill, and Netmums Editorial Director Louise Burke.JB and Louise are kicking off Series 18 with one of the hotly debated parenting topics right now: the issue of children’s screen time and the social media ban. How can we as parents tackle screen time and online use while raising a happy family?We’re joined by renowned social psychologist and author Jonathan Haidt, who helps us explore the impact of smartphones on childhood, the difficult conversations parents face with their kids around social media use, and practical strategies for resetting family digital habits.In this episode of our podcast made by parents for parents:- The challenges of managing screen time in busy family lives – ‘bad’ screentime versus ‘good’ screentime- Insights into the effects of social media on children’s mental health- Practical tips for creating a balanced digital environment at home- The importance of play and outdoor activities in childhood development- Real-life stories from parents navigating these issuesThis episode is a must-listen for anyone looking for support when it comes to parenting your child online. It also provides you with expert insight if you’re looking to gain a better understanding of the current digital landscape such as the impact of social media and its effect on children today.The Amazing Generation by Jonathan Haidt and Catherine Price is out now at all good booksellers.Read more expert help on Netmums.com and join the conversation on socials @Netmums.We also want to hear your parenting stories, questions and dilemmas! So please share them with us at thenetmumspodcast@netmums.com and we can bring you into the conversations that matter on The Netmums Podcast.This podcast is brought to you by Netmums: backed by experts, trusted by parents. Proudly produced by Decibelle Creative / @decibelle_creative

In this sponsored episode of the Netmums podcast with Johnson's Baby, we tackle the “Witching Hour” - that notorious time of day when babies seem to be at their crankiest. Wendy Golledge is joined by experts Dr. Punam Krishan, GP, author, and Strictly star, and Sarah Joy Owen, an NHS midwife and mum of three, to share practical strategies and advice for parents.

This week on The Netmums Podcast, Wendy Golledge and Alison Perry welcome Capital Breakfast’s Sian Welby. Sian, a devoted mum to one-year-old Ruby, shares her journey of balancing motherhood with a high-profile career, and the joys and challenges that come with it. In this chat Sian opens up about the realities of parenting, the pressures of returning to work shortly after giving birth, and the importance of maintaining her identity amidst the chaos of motherhood. She reflects on her own experiences, including her recent interview with the iconic Taylor Swift, revealing how these moments shape her perspective as both a parent and a professional. In this episode: The challenges of balancing a high-profile career with motherhood How to navigate the pressures of returning to work after maternity leave The importance of self-care for parents and caregivers Finding joy in the small moments with your children Encouraging open conversations about parenting roles in relationships Sian's refreshing honesty and humour shine through as she discusses the complexities of modern parenting, offering relatable insights for all parents juggling similar struggles. 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 week on The Netmums Podcast, Wendy Golledge and Alison Perry are joined by the remarkable Dame Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand and author of the memoir A Different Kind of Power. In this episode, Jacinda shares her unique experiences of balancing motherhood with the demands of leading a country, and parenting while in the public eye. Jacinda opens up about the emotional juggle of early motherhood, the challenges of maternity leave, and the guilt that often accompanies working parents. She discusses her new picture book, Mum's Busy Work, which addresses the struggles parents face in managing work and family life, and how to communicate these challenges to children. In this episode: The realities of being a working mother in a high-profile role Managing ‘Mum guilt’ and expectations as a parent The importance of sharing the parental load between partners How to maintain values and kindness in parenting Advice for new parents returning to work after maternity leave Jacinda’s book, Mum's Busy Work, is an inspiring and heartwarming book about the relationship between a working mum and her daughter. This episode is sponsored by Aldi Mamia 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 week on The Netmums Podcast, Wendy Golledge and Alison Perry are joined by Joeli Brearley, campaigner, author, and founder of Pregnant, Then Screwed. This episode explores the challenges of juggling motherhood with a career while tackling the systemic issues surrounding maternity discrimination. Joeli shares her personal journey from experiencing pregnancy discrimination to launching a movement that has shaped policies and attitudes towards working parents. She discusses her new venture, Growth Spurt, designed to support parents as they navigate the return to work, providing practical resources and peer support. In this episode: - Joeli’s experience with pregnancy discrimination and its impact - The importance of peer-to-peer support for parents - Understanding the motherhood penalty and its implications - Joeli’s vision for accessible childcare and its societal benefits - The significance of having open dialogues with children about growing up This episode is sponsored by Aldi Mamia.  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 week on The Netmums Podcast, Wendy Golledge and Alison Perry are joined by A&E doctor turned mental health campaigner, author and Stompcast host Dr Alex George. Together, they dig into what young people are up against right now, how tiny daily routines can build big resilience, and why honest, calm conversations at home matter more than perfect fixes. Dr Alex talks through “mental fitness,” the case for more wellbeing in schools, and his new children’s book Happy Habits, which helps kids build small, realistic routines for happier, healthier days. (Plus: Alison’s “raffle to buy a toy” saga becomes a teachable moment on dopamine!) In this episode: Why schools should balance grades with wellbeing (and life skills like money basics) The “life audit”: a 5-minute way to choose the one habit that moves the needle Simple family habits that stick (hello, 10-minute morning nature walk) How to talk to children about grief, worry and eating disorders without “fixing” Mental fitness vs. mental health: building resilience and capacity for joy Alex on ADHD & OCD: what diagnosis changed and what “normal” even means Boundaries with reality TV and choosing goals that align with your values A sneak peek at Alex’s next book, Am I Normal?, coming in January This episode is proudly sponsored by Aldi Mamia.  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 week on The Netmums Podcast, Wendy Golledge and Alison Perry are joined by the insightful author and podcaster, Gemma Styles. Together, they delve into the realities of motherhood, neurodiversity, and the importance of self-compassion amidst the chaos of parenting. Gemma shares her journey as a new mum, discussing the challenges of navigating toddlerhood while managing her own mental health and ADHD. The conversation touches on the significance of building a supportive village, the joys and trials of second-hand shopping, and the impact of social media on parenting. In this episode Gemma also shares some details with us about her partnership with Pura. Pura, the eco-conscious baby care brand. Pura’s wipes and nappies are toxin-free, allergy-approved, and designed with less plastic and more sustainable manufacturing. Gemma tells us all about Pura’s exciting nappy recycling initiative which currently recycles 60 million nappies annually in Wales, and the brand’s large-scale trial which is currently underway in Bristol. In this episode:-  The realities of juggling motherhood and personal projects Building a supportive community while parenting Managing mental health and ADHD as a new parent Gemma’s partnership with Pura  Exploring the benefits of second-hand shopping Setting boundaries with social media and parenting Understanding the phases of parenting and self-compassion Eco-friendly practices in motherhood 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, hosts Wendy Golledge and Alison Perry discuss the often-overlooked issue of stress and its impact on parenting and self-care. Joined by fitness expert Shakira Akabusi, they explore the misconceptions surrounding postnatal bodies, the importance of pelvic floor health, and how movement can serve as medicine for mental well-being. Shakira shares her personal experiences with motherhood and mental health, offering valuable insights for parents navigating the challenges of raising children while maintaining their health. Tune in for practical tips on how to prioritise self-care and foster a healthy mindset! In this episode: The impact of stress on parenting Managing kids' emotions during a move Misconceptions about postnatal bodies Importance of pelvic floor health The role of movement in mental health Celebrity culture and body image Shakira's app and resources for parents This episode is proudly sponsored by Aldi UK.  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, Stella Creasy, a Labour MP, discusses the challenges of balancing her political career with motherhood. She reflects on personal milestones, the importance of maternity leave, and the need for better childcare support.  Stella also addresses the motherhood penalty, online abuse faced by women in politics, and advocates for changes in policies related to special educational needs and period poverty. The conversation emphasizes the importance of amplifying the voices of parents in political discussions and creating a more inclusive environment for all families. In this episode: Navigating Parenting and Politics The Transition to School Life The Reality of Being an MP and a Parent Campaigning for Maternity Leave and Representation The Motherhood Penalty and Workplace Equality Flexible Working and Parental Leave The Impact of Online Abuse on Parenting and Politics Special Educational Needs and Early Intervention Childcare Accessibility and Universal Systems Encouraging Future Generations in Politics This episode is proudly sponsored by Aldi UK. 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 week on The Netmums Podcast, Alison & Wendy are thrilled to welcome the beloved Davina McCall, a true national treasure, and her co-author, midwife Marley Henry, to discuss their new book, Birthing. Fair warning - this episode gets emotional! The chat gets into the realities of conception, pregnancy, birth, and the often-overlooked postpartum period. Davina shares her personal journey through motherhood, from the challenges of the fourth trimester to the importance of listening to her own needs, she emphasises the significance of love and boundaries in parenting. Midwife Marley Henry enters the chat half way through and adds her expertise as a midwife, offering invaluable advice to expectant parents about the birthing process and the importance of being informed about all available options. In this episode:  The journey of writing Birthing and the motivation behind it Understanding the realities of labour and the importance of bodily autonomy How to navigate the fourth trimester and the significance of self-care Real-life birth stories and the lessons learned from them Trusting your intuition as a parent and the importance of boundaries Advice for new parents on managing expectations and seeking help Don't miss out on the chance to grab a copy of Birthing for a comprehensive guide to your pregnancy journey. 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 week on The Netmums Podcast, Alison & Wendy are joined by TV presenter, qualified life coach and therapist Anna Williamson (Celebs Go Dating, LuAnna podcast), for an honest chat about modern motherhood. Anna opens up about perinatal anxiety, postnatal depression, bonding struggles, and why asking for help is strength, not shame. She also talks about her Channel 4 series, The Great British Phone Switch, and her chart-topping podcast, The Affair, exploring why infidelity fascinates us and how some couples come back stronger. In this episode: Embracing “good-enough” parenting and the reality behind the Instagram highlights reel Anna’s lived experience of anxiety, birth trauma and PND and the power of saying it out loud Shame, bonding difficulties and the moments that make you want to stay in the car park a bit longer Phones aren’t the enemy: Anna’s car-driving analogy for teaching kids safe, smart smartphone use Inside The Great British Phone Switch: what happens when parents and teens swap phones and the family pledges that result Celebs Go Dating behind the scenes: why Kerry Katona’s journey this series made Anna proud (plus a little Pete Wicks chat!) The Affair podcast: the many faces of infidelity. Watch The Great British Phone Switch on Channel 4 (stream on demand), and listen to Anna’s podcast The Affair wherever you get your 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

This week on The Netmums Podcast, Alison & Wendy are joined by the ever-inspiring Joe Wicks, back for a third time on the NM pod, to discuss the importance of physical exercise for mental well-being.Joe, known for his energetic PE sessions during lockdown, shares insights from his new government backed animated youtube series, Activate, aimed at getting kids moving and healthy. He opens up about the chaos of parenting four children and the lessons he’s learned about patience, empathy, and the importance of being present. From managing the daily challenges of homeschooling to finding time for personal fitness, Joe offers practical tips for parents to maintain their mental health while juggling family life.In this episode: The mental health benefits of physical exercise for both parents and children How to create family routines that encourage movement and healthy habits Strategies for managing parenting chaos and maintaining patience The importance of being present and setting boundaries with technology Joe’s insights on engaging teenagers in physical activity The impact of Jo’s new animated series, Activate, on encouraging kids to move. Get Joe’s youtube series, Activate HERE or search ‘Activate with Joe’.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 the final episode of our teen skincare special in partnership with Purifide, by the makers of Acnecide, Netmums host Wendy Golledge tackles the dreaded “why now?!” breakout – those spots with perfect timing to appear right before prom, birthdays, or big family events. Joined by mum Sarah, her daughter Phoenix, and Consultant Dermatologist Dr. Alia Ahmed from Purifide, we share real-life stories, expert advice, and quick fixes for calming flare-ups without panic or last-minute product scrambles. From spot patches with powerful ingredients to confidence-boosting strategies, this is your go-to guide for those skin emergencies. In this episode, we cover: Quick, dermatologist-approved fixes for those “emergency” spots The truth about water, diet, and skin health How to support teens’ confidence when a breakout threatens to ruin the day Filtering social media skincare advice so it’s safe and effective When to seek professional help if spots just won’t go away Why big events can trigger flare-ups (and how stress plays a role) Whether your teen’s prepping for prom or simply wants to feel confident in their own skin, this episode is packed with reassurance, expert tips, and real-life perspective.

Clear Conversations: Navigating Teen Acne with Phoenix and Dr. Alia In episode two of our special Netmums mini-series on teen skin, host Wendy Golledge chats with mum Sarah and her teenage daughter Phoenix, alongside Consultant Dermatologist Dr. Alia Ahmed from Purifide (by the makers of Acnecide). Together, they share honest, real-world insights into managing blemish-prone skin – without turning the bathroom into a battleground. Phoenix reveals how she’s built a skincare routine that works for her (even after a late night), Sarah opens up about supporting her without nagging, and Dr. Alia breaks down the essential steps for healthy, spot-prone skin – all with a myth-busting, practical approach. In this episode, we cover: Skincare battles – how to reduce conflict over products and routines at home Daily routines that work – Phoenix’s consistency tips for clearer skin Expert steps – the importance of a strong routine: cleanse, treat, moisturise (and protect with SPF!) Myth-busting – why toothpaste and certain “miracle” cures can make things worse Parent pointers – motivating teens without sounding like a drill sergeant Boys skincare – why it matters just as much and how to get them on board Whether your teen is a skincare enthusiast or needs a little nudge, this episode offers expert advice, practical tips, and reassurance that clear skin is about finding what works – not chasing perfection.

In this first episode of three Clear Conversations – a brand-new Netmums mini-series in partnership with Acnecide+Purifide – host Wendy Golledge dives into the emotional and often overwhelming world of teen skin. Teen guest Phoenix opens up about the sudden onset of breakouts, her skincare trial-and-error journey, and how it affected her confidence, while her mum, Sarah, shares what it’s like to support your child through it all. Joining the conversation is  Consultant Dermatologist and psychodermatology expert, Dr Alia Ahmed, who brings clarity with science-backed advice, myth-busting truths, and practical steps parents and teens can take to build healthier skin  – and self-esteem. Whether you're a parent trying to help your teen or a young person navigating blemish-prone skin, this honest and supportive chat is packed with insight, empathy, and empowering tips. Topics include: Why acne happens – the real causes behind breakouts How skin health and mental health are connected The do’s and dont’s of teen skincare routines Myths about acne, diet, hygiene and more Dr Alia’s top three skincare tips for teens Resources and links: Dr Alia: @the_psychodermatologist / thepsychodermatologist.com Acnecide + Purifide: acnecide.co.uk / Available on Amazon

In this exclusive episode of the Netmums Podcast, we’re invited inside 10 Downing Street for a rare, one-to-one interview with Prime Minister Keir Starmer — and we’re talking about more than politics. From free childcare for babies from nine months to plans for paternity leave reform, Keir opens up about the big policy changes aimed at supporting UK parents and working families. But he also gets personal, sharing what it’s really like raising teenagers while running the country, how his family tackles Friday night takeaway decisions, and why changing nappies and flexible working matter just as much as parliamentary bills. Expect honest reflections on fatherhood, candid advice for mums and dads, and a powerful reminder that there’s no one right way to parent. This is an absolute must-listen!