This Glorious Mess

We've all heard about the mental load, but what about kin keeping? If you one day stopped wrangling the extended family or your in-laws to attend group gatherings, would you just never see each other again? Today we explore how much effort you should be putting into being the kin keeper and why it’s ok to take a step back. THE END BITS Support independent women's media Check out The Quicky Instagram here Feeling festive? Gift a Mamamia subscription! Head here to give the best stuff for women. GET IN TOUCH Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice note or email us at thequicky@mamamia.com.au CREDITS Host: Claire Murphy With thanks to: Elisabeth Shaw, CEO Relationships Australia NSW  Executive Producer: Taylah Strano  Audio Producers: Tegan Sadler Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What do you remember about summer holidays as a kid? Whether it was pools, rivers, beaches, or running under sprinklers, staying cool was key. For today’s guest, Tiffany, summers were spent with her younger siblings. One unforgettable day at 17 tested her swim teacher skills when both siblings struggled in the water. Staying calm under pressure, Tiffany guided them to safety with quick thinking and steady coaching. Now a swim teacher, Tiffany uses those same skills to help parents keep their kids safe while enjoying the water. This little love story is about family, summer memories, and learning to respect the water. You can read Tiffany's Little Love Story here. THE END BITS  Gift a Mamamia subscription: Head here to give the best stuff for women. Tell us what you really think so we can give you more of what you really want. Fill out this survey and you’ll go in the running to win one of five $100 gift vouchers. Subscribe to Mamamia We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host & Producer: Grace Rouvray Guest: Tiffany Oldrey  Audio Producer: Lu Hill Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever wondered why older siblings are bossy while the youngest is living their best chaotic life? Today we dive into the fascinating world of birth order and how it shapes your personality - and your kids! Yes, our research may indicate why you’re a Type-A overachiever or the family rebel. Also, ahead of Christmas Tegan and Annaliese unpack how varying financial positions in the family impact sibling dynamics - then how to navigate those tricky money conversations with ease this holiday season. THE END BITS Gift a Mamamia subscription: Head here to give the best stuff for women. We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host: Tegan Natoli, Annaliese Todd  Producer: Grace Rouvray and Thom Lion Audio Producer: Lu Hill Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Taking a long holiday is on the minds of families across the nation. So if you're in the need of some inspiration today's guest from the archives might be able to help... Deanna and her family after months spent in lockdown decided they wanted to go on an adventure. So they mapped out their ideal holiday, a six-month trek across New Zealand on the Te Araroa trail, totalling 3000kms. From Cape Reinga on the North Island to a place called, Bluff on the South Island. So why in the world did they decide to do it? and what did they learn along the way? Plus this week's parenting dilemma, is Minecraft the gateway for all video games?  Gift a Mamamia subscription: Head here to give the best stuff for women. LINKS  You can keep up with Deanna and her family's adventures on Instagram @noodlesforbrekky and online at www.noodlesforbreakfast.com CREDITS Hosts: Holly Wainwright & Andrew Daddo Guest: Deanna Gerlach Producer: Mikayla Floriano  CONTACT US Send your parenting dilemmas to tgm@mamamia.com.au Looking for a community of like-minded parents? Join our Mamamia Parents Facebook Page... https://www.facebook.com/groups/1047713658714395/   Want a weekly parenting newsletter from Holly Wainwright? Sign up here... https://www.mamamia.com.au/newsletter/ Looking for other podcasts to listen to?  You'll find all our Mamamia shows at https://mamamia.com.au/podcasts/ Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A parent plays food fetch with their child, and we've decided they're the parent of the year. Meanwhile, "Sleeping Beauties" takes on a whole new meaning plus one mum uses lying and a day spa to get the best results from her child. Aligned and approved.  You can share your best worst parenting stories by leaving us a voice note, email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au or for super shame super anonymous you can pop them in this form.  THE END BITS  Join the Month of MOVE Gift a Mamamia subscription: Head here to give the best stuff for women. Tell us what you really think so we can give you more of what you really want. Fill out this survey and you’ll go in the running to win one of five $100 gift vouchers. We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host: Annaliese Todd & Stacey Hicks Producer: Grace Rouvray Audio Producer: Lu Hill Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A few weeks ago, we dove into the topic of end-of-year overwhelm, and so many of you shared that you’re feeling exactly the same way! With endless to-do lists, days that feel too short, and barely a moment to breathe, finding time for yourself can feel impossible. That’s why we’ve put together some simple, practical hacks to help you reclaim your time. From clever apps to outsourcing tips and learning the art of letting go, we’re here to help you win back those precious hours in your week. Plus, Sarah Marie solves another of your dilemmas.   THE END BITS Gift a Mamamia subscription: Head here to give the best stuff for women. Got a message for Sarah Marie? We’re listening! Send us a voice message, email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host: Tegan Natoli, Annaliese Todd and Sarah Marie Fahd Producer: Grace Rouvray Audio Producer: Lu Hill Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why did former This Glorious Mess host Holly Wainwright take her 9yo to school in East Africa? Well, she was hoping that maybe they'd both come back a little more #grateful and a little less #whingey. On this bonus episode you'll here from Matilda and Holly and others they met along the way in Uganda about what happens when you really take your kid waaay out of their (and your!) comfort zone. Also, they were supporting the excellent work of Aussie non-profit School For Life who build sustainable schools in rural Uganda. Follow their link to learn more or to sponsor a child. CONTACT US Your host is Holly Wainwright  You can read more about Holly and Matilda's trip to Uganda here;https://www.mamamia.com.au/travelling-to-uganda-with-school-for-life/  If you'd like to get in contact with us, feel free to email tgm@mamamia.com.au. This podcast was produced by Rachael Hart This Glorious Mess is a podcast by Mamamia. Explore more Mamamia podcasts: https://www.mamamia.com.au/podcasts Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you remember what your dream job was as a child? Maybe you imagined being a famous athlete, an astronaut, or a firefighter. For today’s guest, that dream wasn’t just a fantasy—it became her reality. Courtney started as a theatre kid, waiting eagerly for autographs at the stage door, dreaming of what it would be like to stand where her idols did. Years later, she made it happen. Courtney stepped into iconic roles like Anna in Frozen and Glinda the Good Witch in Wicked, along with countless other memorable performances on stage and screen. Her story is living proof that dreams don’t have to stay dreams—they can come true. You can read Courtney's full Little Love Story here.  You can see Courtney in Wicked and in Paper Dolls on Netflix.  THE END BITS  Tell us what you really think so we can give you more of what you really want. Fill out this survey and you’ll go in the running to win one of five $100 gift vouchers. Subscribe to Mamamia We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host & Producer: Grace Rouvray Guest: Courtney Monsma Audio Producer: Lu Hill Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Enter lazy gewl giveaways here! Mum guilt—it's something most of us have heard about. But what about Dad guilt? Does it exist? Annaliese and Tegan take a deep dive into their own experiences with Mum guilt, exploring where it stems from. To get the Dad perspective, they brought back resident dad Thom Lion to share whether dads feel the same weight of guilt. Plus, a few of Mamamia's own dads shared their honest take... The results might surprise you and definitely give you something to think about. THE END BITS Got a message for Sarah Marie or a song you want Thom to write? We’re listening! Send us a voice message, email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host: Tegan Natoli, Annaliese Todd & Thom Lion Producer: Grace Rouvray Audio Producer: Lu Hill Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We all want to raise good kids. But do you ever worry that maybe you're raising an arsehole? On today's episode of This Glorious Mess from the archives, Holly and Andrew discuss if raising an asshole is avoidable or if as parents, maybe we will never truly know if we've raised an asshole until someone else points it out.  And on parenting mentors, should you ever intervene when your friend's kid is acting up?  THE END BITS Enter lazy gewl giveaways here! LINKS You can read find out more about the book that inspired today's chat, How To Raise Kids Who Aren't Assholes on www.melindawennermoyer.com GET IN TOUCH Feedback? We’re listening! Call the pod phone on 02 8999 9386 or email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au CREDITS Hosts: Holly Wainwright & Andrew Daddo Producer: Mikayla Floriano  Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A parent keeps a close eye on the gifts coming into the house—it might feel like extra admin, but it's undeniably clever. Speaking of clever, one mum has cracked the code for those insufferable "home-baked treats" requests at school fetes. And, in an impressive feat, a couple transforms into wizard-like time lords to carve out more alone time. You can share your best worst parenting stories by leaving us a voice note, email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au or for super shame super anonymous you can pop them in this form.  THE END BITS  Join the Month of MOVE Get $30 off a Mamamia subscription and get unlimited access to our feel-good exercise app.  Head here to get a yearly subscription for just $39. and use the code MONTHOFTGM Tell us what you really think so we can give you more of what you really want. Fill out this survey and you’ll go in the running to win one of five $100 gift vouchers. We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host: Annaliese Todd & Stacey Hicks Producer: Grace Rouvray Audio Producer: Lu Hill Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is everyone tired? It's getting to that time of year where everything starts to get a bit hard. It may be the last week of November but it feels like the year has been dragging and the silly season can bring out some season overwhelm. Annaliese and Tegan turn to Lauren Thornborough, co-founder of The Village—a network designed to empower and support parents—to explore how to manage the mental load and combat end-of-year burnout. Plus Sarah Marie solves a tricky dilemma on the school run.  THE END BITS Join the Month of MOVE Get $30 off a Mamamia subscription and get unlimited access to our feel-good exercise app.  Head here to get a yearly subscription for just $39. and use the code MONTHOFTGM Got a message for Sarah Marie? We’re listening! Send us a voice message, email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host: Tegan Natoli, Annaliese Todd and Sarah Marie Fahd With thanks to Lauren Thornborough from The Village. Producer: Grace Rouvray Audio Producer: Lu Hill Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you remember your favourite school teachers? And if you do, what made them so special?  In this episode of This Glorious Mess from the archives, Holly Wainwright and Andrew Dado talk to finalist of Australia’s best teacher award, Rebecca West. We know teachers have it tough sometimes so Holly and Andrew ask as parents, what can we do to help?  Plus, this week's parenting mentors question, what do you do when your child's a perfectionist?  THE END BITS LINKS You can find keep up with Mrs West on her youtube channels, Clever Pickles (one for the kids) and Talkin' Chalk (one for the teachers).  Swysh: Get your personalised video message from a Sports Star today at heyswysh.com GET IN TOUCH Feedback? We’re listening! Call the pod phone on 02 8999 9386 or email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au CREDITS Hosts: Holly Wainwright & Andrew Daddo Guest: Rebecca West Producer: Mikayla Floriano  Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Just by reading our articles or listening to our podcasts, you’re helping to fund girls in schools in some of the most disadvantaged countries in the world - through our partnership with Room to Read. We’re currently funding 300 girls in school every day and we aim to get to 1,000. Find out more at mamamia.com.au Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s funny how we spend so much of life trying not to get pregnant, only to assume it will happen instantly when we’re ready—yet for many women, that’s not the case. Today’s Little Love Story is from Harrie Jack. She began her journey with optimism, but month after month brought disappointment. As friends started families, she wondered if they had quietly struggled too, feeling a pang of guilt for never asking. This love story explores the hurdles our bodies face, the courage to admit when things are hard, and the value of sharing those struggles while embracing joy in the present. You can read Harrie's full Little Love Story here.  THE END BITS  Tell us what you really think so we can give you more of what you really want. Fill out this survey and you’ll go in the running to win one of five $100 gift vouchers. Subscribe to Mamamia We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host & Producer: Grace Rouvray Guest: Harrie Jack Audio Producer: Lu Hill Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

No you're not losing it, science says that having a child changes your brain forever. Dr Golly is here to break down the reason you may cry at the news. Or feel overcome by emotions at the smallest things. It turns out that your amygdala, your brain’s emotional HQ, opens up a whole new range of emotions designed to help you care for your child. But it also starts to influence how you interact with the world around you... and guess what, its forever!   THE END BITS Join the Month of MOVE Get $30 off a Mamamia subscription and get unlimited access to our feel-good exercise app.  Head here to get a yearly subscription for just $39. and use the code MONTHOFTGM Got a message for Sarah Marie? We’re listening! Send us a voice message, email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host: Tegan Natoli, Annaliese Todd With thanks to Dr Golly & Thom Lion Producer: Grace Rouvray Audio Producer: Lu Hill Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you're an OG listener of This Glorious Mess, you’ll remember the original hosts, Holly Wainwright and Andrew Daddo. They launched this podcast back in 2015 when Holly’s kids were little and Andrew’s were teens, tackling all the chaotic, wonderful messes that come with young families. In this episode, Holly and Andrew are joined by radio host Jo Stanley to talk about encouraging kids in sports, especially girls in footy. PLUS, Holly has mysteriously similar handwriting to the Elf on the Shelf...and the Tooth Fairy. Funny, right? AND, would you pay $80,000 for a stranger to step into your home and tell you everything you're doing wrong? Tune in for a tough listener dilemma from the mom of a guilt-ridden vegan! THE END BITS Join the Month of MOVE Get $30 off a Mamamia subscription and get unlimited access to our feel-good exercise app.  Head here to get a yearly subscription for just $39. and use the code MONTHOFTGM Got a message for Sarah Marie? We’re listening! Send us a voice message, email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host: Holly Wainwright,  Andrew Daddo & Annaliese Todd With thanks to Jo Stanley You can buy Play Like a Girl here Producer: Grace Rouvray Audio Producer: Lu Hill Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is it a confession or deep respect to a parent who kills off Santa, The Tooth Fairy AND The Easter Bunny in just one conversation. We're leaning towards respect.  Plus a mother who made the mistake of trying to enjoy herself at the beach with toddlers.  You can share your best worst parenting stories by leaving us a voice note, email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au or for super shame super anonymous you can pop them in this form.  THE END BITS  Join the Month of MOVE Get $30 off a Mamamia subscription and get unlimited access to our feel-good exercise app.  Head here to get a yearly subscription for just $39. and use the code MONTHOFTGM Tell us what you really think so we can give you more of what you really want. Fill out this survey and you’ll go in the running to win one of five $100 gift vouchers. We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host: Annaliese Todd & Stacey Hicks Producer: Grace Rouvray Audio Producer: Lu Hill Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Becoming a parent is undoubtedly one of the most life-changing experiences in the world. It’s full of unexpected surprises—both positive and challenging. It can also shift your sense of self in ways you might not anticipate, not only during those early months of sleepless nights and new routines but even years down the line. In this week’s episode, Annaliese and Tegan talk about the times they felt they lost their identity and the moments that helped them rediscover it. Plus, we check in on how parents around Australia are wrangling dinnertime! THE END BITS Join the Month of MOVE Get $30 off a Mamamia subscription and get unlimited access to our feel-good exercise app.  Head here to get a yearly subscription for just $39. and use the code MONTHOFTGM Got a message for Sarah Marie? We’re listening! Send us a voice message, email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host: Tegan Natoli, Annaliese Todd Producer: Grace Rouvray Audio Producer: Lu Hill Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mamamia’s executive editors, Clare and Jessie Stephens, host The Baby Bubble, a parenting podcast with a twist that dives into the absurdity and hilarity of those early newborn days. Do they offer helpful advice? Not at all. Are they even trying? Definitely not. In this episode Clare and Jessie dish out some truly terrible travel advice. As seasoned parents with a few holidays under your belt, we're sure you’ll find it very relatable—and maybe even comforting! So sit back, relax, have a laugh and welcome to the baby bubble. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia Listen to more episodes of The Baby Bubble here For your chance to win a $50 gift card, complete our survey here  If you’re looking for something else to listen to why not check out our award winning parenting podcast How To Build A Human.Or click here to listen to the hosts of Mamamia Out Loud open up about creativity and how they stay inspired. CREDITS Hosts: Clare Stephens & Jessie StephensProducer: Taylah StranoAudio Producer: Tegan Sadler  Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Before you become “Mum” or “Dad,” you're just you—with a first name, a spontaneous social life, and the freedom to pursue your career ambitions with no limits, even if that means sometimes working 20-hour days. That was the life of today's guest, Bec Bignell, before she became a parent. Bec pushed herself to give 100% to both her career and her role as a parent, but eventually, the strain took its toll. Forced to pause, she reflected on the moments that truly brought her happiness and began to seek fulfilment on her own terms. Read Bec's full Little Love Story here.  THE END BITS  Tell us what you really think so we can give you more of what you really want. Fill out this survey and you’ll go in the running to win one of five $100 gift vouchers. Subscribe to Mamamia We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host & Producer: Grace Rouvray Guest: Bec Bignell Audio Producer: Leah Porges Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.