Up Past Bedtime

In this episode of Up Past Bedtime, Bella Messina is serving up her signature "bestie advice" as she answers listener questions and tackles real-life dilemmas. From navigating relationships and intimacy, to the chaos of motherhood and life after divorce, Bella keeps it honest, relatable, and filled with the kind of advice you'd get from your closest friend.She also reflects on personal growth, mental health check-ins, and the messy realities of finances during separation. Whether it's dealing with body image struggles, rediscovering confidence, or embracing freedom and self-expression, Bella's here to remind you that your happiness isn’t just important—it’s essential.Up Past Bedtime with Bella Messina is your go-to for late-night, unfiltered chats—the kind of conversations you’d have with your closest girlfriends. From relationships to motherhood, no topic is off-limits as Bella, a 20-something mum of two, invites you into candid conversations with inspiring women and shares her own raw stories. This podcast is where you’ll feel seen, heard, and completely understood. So get comfortable, because the best conversations happen when you’re up past bedtimeUPB Socials:Instagram: @uppastbedtimepodcastTik Tok: @uppastbedtimepodcastFacebook Community: HereWatch on Youtube: HereOr Email Us: upbpod@messinaco.comBella’s Socials: Instagram: @bellsmessinaTik Tok: @bellsmessina Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Up Past Bedtime, Bella and guest Rach Witteman get real about single motherhood—the raw, messy, and sometimes hilarious realities of separation and co-parenting. They dive into their personal stories, touching on everything from balancing careers and kids to the absolute minefield that is dating as a single parent. This candid chat is all about self-respect, staying adaptable, and embracing the unique (and unpredictable) journey of life after divorce. Because when it comes to motherhood, there’s no one-size-fits-all path.Up Past Bedtime with Bella Messina is your go-to for late-night, unfiltered chats—the kind of conversations you’d have with your closest girlfriends. From relationships to motherhood, no topic is off-limits as Bella, a 20-something mum of two, invites you into candid conversations with inspiring women and shares her own raw stories. This podcast is where you’ll feel seen, heard, and completely understood. So get comfortable, because the best conversations happen when you’re up past bedtimeUPB Socials:Instagram: @uppastbedtimepodcastTik Tok: @uppastbedtimepodcastFacebook Community: HereWatch on Youtube: HereOr Email Us: upbpod@messinaco.comRach’s Socials: Instagram: @rachwittemanTikTok: @rachwittemanBella’s Socials: Instagram: @bellsmessinaTik Tok: @bellsmessina Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Up Past Bedtime, Bella opens up about her journey from being a full-time stay-at-home mum to navigating 50/50 co-parenting after her separation. She shares how she and her children's Dad have structured their co-parenting arrangement, the emotional challenges she’s faced, and the steps she’s taking to ensure stability and love for her daughters. Bella also answers listener questions, offering insight into the realities of co-parenting—balancing boundaries, communication, and the constant effort to put her kids first. It’s a raw and honest conversation about adapting to life after separation while staying grounded in motherhood.Up Past Bedtime with Bella Messina is your go-to for late-night, unfiltered chats—the kind of conversations you’d have with your closest girlfriends. From relationships to motherhood, no topic is off-limits as Bella, a 20-something mum of two, invites you into candid conversations with inspiring women and shares her own raw stories. This podcast is where you’ll feel seen, heard, and completely understood. So get comfortable, because the best conversations happen when you’re up past bedtimeUPB Socials:Instagram: @uppastbedtimepodcastTik Tok: @uppastbedtimepodcastFacebook Community: HereWatch on Youtube: HereOr Email Us: upbpod@messinaco.comBella’s Socials: Instagram: @bellsmessinaTik Tok: @bellsmessina Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to Up Past Bedtime! In this heartfelt and empowering episode, Bella welcomes Renee May to the studio for a raw and real conversation about the highs and lows of motherhood. The two dive into their experiences with postpartum depression, the loneliness that can come with early parenthood, and how Renee found purpose and connection by building her business, Lolly May, during the pandemic.They discuss the realities of balancing personal and professional life, the pressure of societal expectations, and the importance of community for mental health. It’s a candid chat about resilience, growth, and the empowerment that comes from sharing your struggles and triumphs. Whether you’re a mum, an aspiring entrepreneur, or just someone navigating life’s challenges, this episode is full of relatable insights and uplifting moments.UPB Socials:Instagram: @uppastbedtimepodcastTik Tok: @uppastbedtimepodcastFacebook Community: HereWatch on Youtube: HereOr Email Us: upbpod@messinaco.comRenee's Socials:Instagram: @reneeemayTik Tok: @reneeemayLolly May: @lollymaystoreBella’s Socials: Instagram: @bellsmessinaTik Tok: @bellsmessina Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Bella relaunches the Up Past Bedtime Podcast, sharing her journey of navigating personal changes after a separation from her husband Adrian. She discusses the importance of creating a safe space for women and mothers, the challenges of co-parenting, and her commitment to personal growth and self-discovery. Bella emphasises the need for boundaries regarding her children's privacy and reflects on the complexities of adult relationships. She expresses hope for the future and invites listeners to join her on this journey of empowerment and authenticity.Up Past Bedtime with Bella Messina is your go-to for late-night, unfiltered chats—the kind of conversations you’d have with your closest girlfriends. From relationships to motherhood, no topic is off-limits as Bella, a 20-something mom of two, invites you into candid conversations with inspiring women and shares her own raw stories. This podcast is where you’ll feel seen, heard, and completely understood. So get comfortable, because the best conversations happen when you’re up past bedtimeUPB Socials:Instagram: @uppastbedtimepodcastTik Tok: @uppastbedtimepodcastFacebook Community: HereWatch on Youtube: HereOr Email Us: upbpod@messinaco.comBella’s Socials: Instagram: @bellsmessinaTik Tok: @bellsmessina Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you navigate the world, when you feel like you've never been able to understand your own mind? Join us this week on Up Past Bedtime as Bella shares her deeply personal journey of being diagnosed with ADHD and ASD at 28, unpacking the profound impact it had on her marriage, parenting, and self-perception. We also explore the financial and emotional toll of undiagnosed ADHD and postpartum depression, illustrating the struggles Bella faced managing a household: From impulse control issues to emotional regulation. We candidly discuss the challenges we've faced particularly in the last 12 months, the importance of seeking proper medical help and go into detail about the long journey towards a diagnosis.We wanted to take a moment to express our deep gratitude to our supportive community and the women who reached out with their own stories, Bella will be forever grateful for your willingness to be vulnerable with her throughout her own diagnosis journey.UPB Socials:Instagram: @uppastbedtimepodcastTik Tok: @uppastbedtimepodcastFacebook Community: HereWatch on Youtube: HereOr Email Us: upbpod@messinaco.comBella’s Socials: Instagram: @bellsmessinaTik Tok: @bellsmessinaAdrian’s Socials: Instagram: @adrianmessinaTik Tok: @itsyaboyado Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on UPB, Victoria Devine, the powerhouse behind She's on the Money (Australia's #1 Money Podcast), joins us in the studio to share her incredible knowledge and journey around money! Together, V and Bella, explore the critical importance of financial literacy for women, particularly married mothers facing career breaks or stay-at-home roles. Victoria's passion for empowering women in finance is palpable as she provides practical steps to enhance financial health and confidence.We dive deep into the emotional and mental challenges of managing finances during motherhood and within partnerships. Through personal stories, we discuss the necessity of open communication, mutual respect, and viewing income as a collective resource. This episode also covers the complexities of financial relationships, debunking myths about gender roles in finance and highlighting the importance of honesty and transparency in managing personal finances.Up Past Bedtime is a podcast putting the P back in pillow talk; broadcasting the after-hours conversations of parents! Join the husband and wife duo, Bella & Adrian Messina, for weekly unfiltered discussions that explore the rollercoaster ride of relationships/marriage after kids while navigating the challenges and triumphs of parenting today.UPB Socials:Instagram: @uppastbedtimepodcastTik Tok: @uppastbedtimepodcastFacebook Community: HereWatch on Youtube: HereOr Email Us: upbpod@messinaco.comYou can listen to She's On The Money: HereOr access more of Victoria's Money Resources: HereVictoria's Socials: Instagram: @victoria_devine @shesonthemoneyausTik Tok: @victoria_devine @shesonthemoneyausBella’s Socials: Instagram: @bellsmessinaTik Tok: @bellsmessinaAdrian’s Socials: Instagram: @adrianmessinaTik Tok: @itsyaboyado Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hi Night Owls!Welcome back to the much-anticipated second season of our podcast. We're launching the season off with a heartfelt Father’s Day discussion focusing on Adrian’s experiences and the father figures in our lives. We explore the profound and evolving roles of fatherhood, reflecting on the joys and challenges of parenting. From the initial dreams of a large family to the reality of balancing work and family life, we share personal anecdotes and insights. The conversation highlights the importance of shared responsibilities, modern gender roles, and the deep connections with our children. Up Past Bedtime is a podcast putting the P back in pillow talk; broadcasting the after-hours conversations of parents! Join the husband and wife duo, Bella & Adrian Messina, for weekly unfiltered discussions that explore the rollercoaster ride of relationships/marriage after kids while navigating the challenges and triumphs of parenting today.UPB Socials:Instagram: @uppastbedtimepodcastTik Tok: @uppastbedtimepodcastFacebook Community: HereWatch on Youtube: HereOr Email Us: upbpod@messinaco.comBella’s Socials: Instagram: @bellsmessinaTik Tok: @bellsmessinaAdrian’s Socials: Instagram: @adrianmessinaTik Tok: @itsyaboyado Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Up Past Bedtime is a podcast putting the P back in pillow talk; broadcasting the after-hours conversations of parents! Join the husband and wife duo, Bella & Adrian Messina, for weekly unfiltered discussions that explore the rollercoaster ride of relationships/marriage after kids while navigating the challenges and triumphs of parenting today. UPB Socials:Instagram: @uppastbedtimepodcastTik Tok: @uppastbedtimepodcastFacebook Community: HereWatch on Youtube: HereOr Email Us: upbpod@messinaco.comBella’s Socials: Instagram: @bellsmessinaTik Tok: @bellsmessinaAdrian’s Socials: Instagram: @adrianmessinaTik Tok: @itsyaboyado Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We've always been an open book & this week were answering REAL questions left for us on by our IRL community! Expect some juicy confessions, all while we keep it real about the ups and downs of family life & marriage.Up Past Bedtime is a podcast putting the P back in pillow talk; broadcasting the after-hours conversations of parents! Join the husband and wife duo, Bella & Adrian Messina, for weekly unfiltered discussions that explore the rollercoaster ride of relationships/marriage after kids while navigating the challenges and triumphs of parenting today. UPB Socials:Instagram: @uppastbedtimepodcastTik Tok: @uppastbedtimepodcastFacebook Community: HereWatch on Youtube: HereOr Email Us: upbpod@messinaco.comBella’s Socials: Instagram: @bellsmessinaTik Tok: @bellsmessinaAdrian’s Socials: Instagram: @adrianmessinaTik Tok: @itsyaboyado Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this weeks episode of UPB we dive deep into our contrasting desires and the tough decision-making process surrounding future pregnancies. From the joys of sibling relationships and age gaps to the financial and emotional tolls of raising multiple children, our stories and listener experiences paint a vivid picture of modern family planning. Up Past Bedtime is a podcast putting the P back in pillow talk; broadcasting the after-hours conversations of parents! Join the husband and wife duo, Bella & Adrian Messina, for weekly unfiltered discussions that explore the rollercoaster ride of relationships/marriage after kids while navigating the challenges and triumphs of parenting today. UPB Socials:Instagram: @uppastbedtimepodcastTik Tok: @uppastbedtimepodcastFacebook Community: HereWatch on Youtube: HereOr Email Us: upbpod@messinaco.comBella’s Socials: Instagram: @bellsmessinaTik Tok: @bellsmessinaAdrian’s Socials: Instagram: @adrianmessinaTik Tok: @itsyaboyado Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Postpartum depression isn't just a topic; it's a reality that has deeply affected our family. In a raw and heartfelt conversation, I open up about my journey through postpartum depression, sharing how it impacted my mental health and daily life. Adrian joins in to provide his perspective, and together, we compare the postpartum periods following the births of our children, Rosie and Bennie. We highlight how different each experience was and underscore the importance of open conversations about mental health, aiming to foster understanding and support for anyone facing similar challenges.Up Past Bedtime is a podcast putting the P back in pillow talk; broadcasting the after-hours conversations of parents! Join the husband and wife duo, Bella & Adrian Messina, for weekly unfiltered discussions that explore the rollercoaster ride of relationships/marriage after kids while navigating the challenges and triumphs of parenting today. UPB Socials:Instagram: @uppastbedtimepodcastTik Tok: @uppastbedtimepodcastFacebook Community: HereWatch on Youtube: HereOr Email Us: upbpod@messinaco.comBella’s Socials: Instagram: @bellsmessinaTik Tok: @bellsmessinaAdrian’s Socials: Instagram: @adrianmessinaTik Tok: @itsyaboyado Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hey Night Owls! Thank you for your continued grace and support. It isn't unnoticed. Up Past Bedtime is a podcast putting the P back in pillow talk; broadcasting the after-hours conversations of parents! Join the husband and wife duo, Bella & Adrian Messina, for weekly unfiltered discussions that explore the rollercoaster ride of relationships/marriage after kids while navigating the challenges and triumphs of parenting today. UPB Socials:Instagram: @uppastbedtimepodcastTik Tok: @uppastbedtimepodcastFacebook Community: HereWatch on Youtube: HereOr Email Us: upbpod@messinaco.comBella’s Socials: Instagram: @bellsmessinaTik Tok: @bellsmessinaAdrian’s Socials: Instagram: @adrianmessinaTik Tok: @itsyaboyado Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hey Night Owls! Ever wonder what it's like to fall in love on Tinder while six months pregnant? Buckle up for an unforgettable episode this week as we sit down with the phenomenal Alyssa Jane, who shares her whirlwind journey to motherhood and beyond. From navigating single motherhood at 19 to meeting her fiancé Max under the most extraordinary circumstances, Alyssa's story is nothing short of incredible.Up Past Bedtime is a podcast putting the P back in pillow talk; broadcasting the after-hours conversations of parents! Join the husband and wife duo, Bella & Adrian Messina, for weekly unfiltered discussions that explore the rollercoaster ride of relationships/marriage after kids while navigating the challenges and triumphs of parenting today. UPB Socials:Instagram: @uppastbedtimepodcastTik Tok: @uppastbedtimepodcastFacebook Community: HereWatch on Youtube: HereOr Email Us: upbpod@messinaco.comAlyssa’s Socials: Instagram: @alyssajane01 Tik Tok: @alyssa_jane01Bella’s Socials: Instagram: @bellsmessinaTik Tok: @bellsmessina Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hey Night Owls! You BEGGED for it... so on this weeks episode, we're delivering. Join us as we share Part 2 of your In Law Horror Stories.Ever had in-laws who made your life a living nightmare? Well you're certainly not alone! After receiving hundreds of submissions, we will be sharing more of our listeners personal in-law stories. Family dynamics and setting boundaries are never easy, especially when it comes to in-laws who just don't get it. Join us as we share candid experiences about dietary challenges, public breastfeeding woes, and the need for clear parental authority. With shocking stories about possessive grandparents and outrageous in-law behaviours, we offer commentary and practical advice to help you navigate your own family struggles.Up Past Bedtime is a podcast putting the P back in pillow talk; broadcasting the after-hours conversations of parents! Join the husband and wife duo, Bella & Adrian Messina, for weekly unfiltered discussions that explore the rollercoaster ride of relationships/marriage after kids while navigating the challenges and triumphs of parenting today. UPB Socials:Instagram: @uppastbedtimepodcastTik Tok: @uppastbedtimepodcastFacebook Community: HereWatch on Youtube: HereOr Email Us: upbpod@messinaco.comBella’s Socials: Instagram: @bellsmessinaTik Tok: @bellsmessinaAdrian’s Socials: Instagram: @adrianmessinaTik Tok: @itsyaboyado Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hey Night Owls! After the viral speech of Harrison Butker, we thought this week was the perfect opportunity to delve into the in's and out's of what it is REALLY like to be a SAHM & Homemaker and be apart of a traditional gender roles relationship. Up Past Bedtime is a podcast putting the P back in pillow talk; broadcasting the after-hours conversations of parents! Join the husband and wife duo, Bella & Adrian Messina, for weekly unfiltered discussions that explore the rollercoaster ride of relationships/marriage after kids while navigating the challenges and triumphs of parenting today. UPB Socials:Instagram: @uppastbedtimepodcastTik Tok: @uppastbedtimepodcastFacebook Community: HereWatch on Youtube: HereOr Email Us: upbpod@messinaco.comBella’s Socials: Instagram: @bellsmessinaTik Tok: @bellsmessinaAdrian’s Socials: Instagram: @adrianmessinaTik Tok: @itsyaboyado Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back Night Owls! Let's be real, the journey of intimacy post-children is like navigating a maze blindfolded. This episode peels back the curtain on the challenges and triumphs of reigniting passion, embracing body positivity after childbirth, and the delicate dance of libidos that can sometimes be out of sync. We also don't shy away from the touchier subjects, such as society's evolving views on women's sexuality and the role of adult entertainment in modern relationships. It's a heartfelt exploration of love's intricate layers, guaranteed to resonate with anyone who's ever had to balance a busy life with the need for closeness and warmth.(00:00) - Sex and Life Updates With Wine(07:51) - Postpartum Intimacy and Body Confidence(13:37) - Navigating Differences in Sex Drive(21:06) - Navigating Intimacy Post-Children(25:22) - Nurturing Intimacy in Relationships(33:02) - Navigating Intimacy in Relationships(43:49) - Navigating Porn and Intimacy in RelationshipsUp Past Bedtime is a podcast putting the P back in pillow talk; broadcasting the after-hours conversations of parents! Join the husband and wife duo, Bella & Adrian Messina, for weekly unfiltered discussions that explore the rollercoaster ride of relationships/marriage after kids while navigating the challenges and triumphs of parenting today. UPB Socials:Instagram: @uppastbedtimepodcastTik Tok: @uppastbedtimepodcastFacebook Community: HereWatch on Youtube: HereOr Email Us: upbpod@messinaco.comBella’s Socials: Instagram: @bellsmessinaTik Tok: @bellsmessinaAdrian’s Socials: Instagram: @adrianmessinaTik Tok: @itsyaboyado Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hey Night Owls! Join me, Bella Messina, in Episode 6  as I embark on a solo journey this Mother's Day, reflecting on the wonders and hurdles of motherhood. I'm sharing five heartfelt messages I'd send back to my first-time mum self, hoping to connect and inspire fellow mums with my experiences. It's an intimate episode, where we celebrate the essence of motherhood and the emotional transformations it ignites. From discussing the profound love that reshapes our lives to the societal pressures that accompany this new identity, this episode is an ode to mothers everywhere.(05:20) 1. You’ll learn true love (and the challenges that come with it)(12:03) 2. Prepare for & embrace change(17:40) 3. Let go of ego and pride(24:00) 4. Don’t forget your relationship(30:14) 5. Stop creating unrealistic expectationsUp Past Bedtime is a podcast putting the P back in pillow talk; broadcasting the after-hours conversations of parents! Join the husband and wife duo, Bella & Adrian Messina, for weekly unfiltered discussions that explore the rollercoaster ride of relationships/marriage after kids while navigating the challenges and triumphs of parenting today. UPB Socials:Instagram: @uppastbedtimepodcastTik Tok: @uppastbedtimepodcastFacebook Community: HereWatch on Youtube: HereOr Email Us: upbpod@messinaco.comBella’s Socials: Instagram: @bellsmessinaTik Tok: @bellsmessina Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hey Night Owls! Welcome back to Up Past Bedtime. In Episode 5, we’re diving into all things ‘Parasocial Parenting’. Navigate with us through the complex terrain of parenting and privacy in the age of social media. We discuss the fine line between sharing our journey as parents and protecting our children's right to a private childhood, shedding light on the thoughtful decisions we make to safeguard their experiences. Hear about the measures we take to shield their identities, from setting firm boundaries on the content we share to rejecting certain daycare apps. Our chat also takes a turn into the less visible pressures, including the weight of external judgments and the art of handling unsolicited opinions while in the public eye.(12:49) - Parenting and Social Media Privacy(17:55) - Setting Boundaries for Online Child Privacy(24:49) - Navigating Parenting in the Public Eye(34:12) - Social Media and Child Privacy(43:32) - Privacy and Regrets in Social Media(46:49) - Navigating Online Criticism and RecommendationsAdrian’s recommendation of the week: Royal Otis - Linger CoverBella’s recommendation of the week: Bridgerton Watch/RewatchUp Past Bedtime is a podcast putting the P back in pillow talk; broadcasting the after-hours conversations of parents! Join the husband and wife duo, Bella & Adrian Messina, for weekly unfiltered discussions that explore the rollercoaster ride of relationships/marriage after kids while navigating the challenges and triumphs of parenting today. UPB Socials:Instagram: @uppastbedtimepodcastTik Tok: @uppastbedtimepodcastFacebook Community: HereWatch on Youtube: HereOr Email Us: upbpod@messinaco.comBella’s Socials: Instagram: @bellsmessinaTik Tok: @bellsmessinaAdrian’s Socials: Instagram: @adrianmessinaTik Tok: @itsyaboyado Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever wondered how to survive the chaos of multi-generational living and get along harmoniously with your In-Laws? For Episode 4 of Up Past Bedtime, join Adrian and Bella, as they pull back the curtain on the good, the bad, and the hilarious of blending family lives under one roof. Listen in as we explore the financial and emotional intricacies of multi-generational living, discussing the delicate balance of sharing expenses and setting respectful parenting boundaries. The support we receive from our family network is something we don't take for granted, and we're diving into the stories that showcase both the positive and the challenging aspects of this arrangement. We also shed light on how these shared experiences resonate with our audience, offering an alternative perspective on the value of community support in family life.Feel like you're the only one navigating the minefield of in-law interactions!? Don’t worry! Join us for a no-holds-barred discussion as we delve into some of our own listeners' HORROR In-Law experiences. We weigh in on the deep emotional journeys some of our listeners have shared, from dealing with toxic Mother in-laws to the heartbreak of pregnancy loss. We laugh, empathise, and sometimes cringe as we recount tales of your family dynamics.(05:50) - Living With Our in-LawsOur unique living situation with Adrian's parents in a dual home arrangement gets explained, highlighting the independence and mutual respect that makes it work for us. (16:37) - Family Financial Dynamics and SupportWe discuss the nuances of multi-generational living, particularly in the context of the financial benefits and dynamics within a family. We explore the concept of sharing expenses and responsibilities without keeping a meticulous score, fostering a sense of unity and support rather than division.(22:53) - Positive Family RelationshipsWe explore the close and accepting relationships we have with each other's families, We discuss how we've managed to navigate any conflicts that have arisen, emphasising our fortunate position compared to some challenging family dynamics shared by listeners. (33:02) - Our Listener In Law Horror StoriesWe open the floor to our listener - sharing a huge range of In-Law Horror stories and give our insight on how we would handle a similar situation! Up Past Bedtime is a podcast putting the P back in pillow talk; broadcasting the after-hours conversations of parents! Join the husband and wife duo, Bella & Adrian Messina, for weekly unfiltered discussions that explore the rollercoaster ride of relationships/marriage after kids while navigating the challenges and triumphs of parenting today. UPB Socials:Instagram: @uppastbedtimepodcastTik Tok: @uppastbedtimepodcastFacebook Community: HereWatch on Youtube: HereOr Email Us: upbpod@messinaco.comBella’s Socials: Instagram: @bellsmessinaTik Tok: @bellsmessinaAdrian’s Socials: Instagram: @adrianmessinaTik Tok: @itsyaboyado Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.