Happy Mum
In the Happy Mum, Happy Baby Podcast, Giovanna Fletcher continues the conversation about motherhood she began in her bestselling book of the same title. In a series of frank and warm conversations with other high-profile mums and dads, Gi discusses all aspects of parenthood - the highs, the lows, the challenges and rewards. There is no such thing as the perfect parent, and we’re all simply doing our best, something Giovanna fully encourages. It’s time to stop comparing ourselves and champion each other instead. Each episode is truly unique yet unifying. No topic is out of bounds, therefore this podcast is essential listening for any parent seeking solidarity and support.
Episodes
The Future of Midwifery Starts Here | Life of a Midwife Ep. 12
How has maternity care changed over the last few decades, and what still needs to improve? In the final episode of this series, we reflect on the evolution of birth and look forward to the future of maternity care.If you're interested in being part of the next series of Life of a Midwife we'd love to hear from you! Just drop us an email midwives@pixiu.co.ukLinks from our midwives:All4Maternity is
I Won’t Let This Define Elsie: Jen Stancombe on Grief, Love & Her Daughter's Legacy
TW: This episode contains devastating conversations around child loss from a traumatic event, and themes of grief. Please do take care of yourself while listening, and know that it’s completely okay to step away and come back when you’re ready.In this week's episode, Gi sits down with Jen Stancombe to honour the life of her daughter, Elsie Dot Stancombe.In July 2024, seven-year-old Elsie was one o
Can Fear Change the Way You Give Birth? | Life of a Midwife Ep. 11
Trigger warning: this episode incudes challenging experiences relating to birth and baby loss. If you feel this may be a difficult listen please consider choosing another episode 💜Fear and hope often exist side by side throughout pregnancy and birth.This week two midwives highlight the importance of clear, compassionate communication -- from easing birth anxieties to supporting families through pr
The Greatest Title: WWE’s Becky Lynch on Becoming a Mum
This week make some noise for the first wrestler to join us on the podcast: WWE icon Becky Lynch!Known to millions as The Man, Becky tells Gi about the moment she found out she was pregnant — while reigning as WWE Champion.She also opens up about becoming a mum to daughter Roux during the pandemic and the challenges that followed, including post-weaning depression, grief after losing her father, a
Staying Calm When Birth Takes a Dangerous Turn | Life of a Midwife Ep. 10
Trigger warning: this episode incudes challenging experiences relating to birth. If you feel this may be a difficult listen please consider choosing another episode 💜When birth takes an unexpected turn, staying calm can make all the difference.This week two midwives share the emergencies they'll never forget.If you’re interested in being part of the Life of a Midwife series, we’d love to hear from
The Birth Trauma That Turned A Politician Into A Campaigner
Former MP Theo Clarke joins Giovanna this week to share the story of how the birth of her daughter led her to become a campaigner for better maternity care.Theo talks about navigating pregnancy while working in politics, including the challenges of having no statutory maternity leave as an MP and the pressure of being on duty during a period of major political upheaval.She also opens up about her
The Baby Born in a Bus Stop (and Other Home Birth Stories) |Life of a Midwife Ep. 9
Was home birth different in the 1970s compared to today?This week, two midwives take us inside the world of birth beyond the hospital: from pioneering one of the earliest home water births to facing the realities, risks, and unexpected moments that come with bringing a baby into the world at home — even when the carpet is cream!If you’re interested in being part of the Life of a Midwife series, we
Dr Punam Krishan on Maternal Health: "I Wasn't Taken Seriously Because I Was An Anxious Mum"
In this episode Giovanna sits down with NHS GP, resident GP on BBC Morning Live and bestselling author, Dr Punam Krishan!Punam opens up about her own traumatic first birth and the life-threatening complications, postnatal depression, and PTSD that followed.She also talks about the breast cancer diagnosis she received last year that reinforced the importance of listening to her body and advocating
How will I survive this career if I can't watch one birth? | Life of a Midwife Ep. 8
How do midwives hold it together in times of immense pressure?In this episode we hear from two midwives who have learned how to stay calm during overwhelming moments.If you’re interested in being part of the Life of a Midwife series, we’d love to hear from you — just drop us an email midwives@pixiu.co.ukLinks from our midwives:Petition · Make birth safer: protect midwives' working hours - United K
Father’s Day Special: The Reality of Surrogacy as a Same-Sex Couple
This week, we’re marking Father’s Day with a very special episode as we welcome Adam Frisby and Jamie Corbett to the studio!They join Gi to share their remarkable journey to parenthood, including the moment their first surrogate withdrew from the process, how their own childhoods shaped the parents they wanted to be, and the joy of welcoming their beautiful baby Leven to the world.Adam and Ja
Everybody Grieves Differently | Life of a Midwife Ep. 7
Trigger warning: this episode incudes challenging experiences relating to birth and baby loss. If you feel this may be a difficult listen please consider choosing another episode 💜What happens when birth leaves a mark that doesn't just disappear? In this episode we hear from two midwives who understand the lasting impact of birth trauma and what it means for the families who are left without
Lauren Cowell Beyond the Headlines: Motherhood, Campaigning and Entering Her F*ck It Era
This week, we’re so excited to welcome Lauren Cowell for her first ever podcast interview!After years of keeping a low profile while navigating public scrutiny, Lauren opens up to Gi about life after divorce, co-parenting, and how she handled the intense media attention surrounding her pregnancy with partner Simon Cowell.Lauren also shares more about her involvement in the ‘Raise the Age’ campaign
A Midwife's Own Survival Story | Life of a Midwife Ep. 6
In this episode of Life of a Midwife, Giovanna shares the extraordinary journey of one midwife who turned her own hardships into a lifelong calling. From an orphaned child to an abandoned mother of triplets, to becoming the midwife she once desperately needed herself.If you're interested in being part of the next series of Life of a Midwife we'd love to hear from you! Just drop us an email at midw
Laura Marling’s Wild Second Home Birth: "My Daughter Was Downstairs Watching Paddington!"
This week Giovanna welcomes legendary singer-songwriter Laura Marling to the studio!Laura tells Gi about her early fears that becoming a mother might stifle her creativity, and shares her experiences of having two home births.She also discusses her mission to create children's music that parents can genuinely enjoy, and introduces her new venture, 'Laura Sings Raffi,' a 17-track cover album of bel
Trust Your Gut | Life of a Midwife Ep. 5
"If my gut is telling me something is wrong, something is wrong."This week we hear from two midwives who know the power of following their instincts.If you're interested in being part of the next series of Life of a Midwife we'd love to hear from you! Just drop us an email midwives@pixiu.co.ukLinks from our midwives:Midwife Pip: The Home of Trusted Pregnancy, Birth and Postnatal Support For Parent
Why Susannah Fielding Believes Every Parent Should Learn Attachment Theory
This week Gi reunites with her old friend Susannah Fielding! You’ll know Susannah from This Time with Alan Partridge, Man vs Baby, and Wolf Hall — but her most important role is being mum to her two-year-old son Alfie.Susannah opens up to Gi about growing up with a single mother and an intermittently absent father, how those experiences shaped her relationships, and why she’s so focused on breakin
Delivering Triplets in a War Zone | Life of a Midwife Ep. 4
Trigger warning: this episode incudes challenging experiences relating to baby loss. If you feel this may be a difficult listen please consider choosing another episode 💜This week on Life of a Midwife we hear more of Anna’s extraordinary story, beginning with one of the first births she attended in South Sudan before she had even qualified as a midwife.Anna also speaks candidly about her own exper
Mollie King on Becoming a Mum While Losing Her Dad
This week, Giovanna sits down with singer, presenter and all-round ray of sunshine Mollie King !Mollie chats to Gi about life with her two young daughters, the realities of motherhood (no sleep), and her exciting new venture into podcasting.She also opens up about navigating her father’s terminal illness while preparing to welcome her first baby.Don’t forget to check out Novel Idea — Mollie’s bril
Why Am I here? | Life of a Midwife Ep. 3
Trigger warning: this episode contains descriptions related to childbirth that may be distressing or upsetting to some listeners.Purpose isn't always comfortable. Sometimes it takes you somewhere extraordinary.This week we delve into the inspiring stories of two midwives whose paths were shaped by a pull they simply couldn't ignore.If you’re interested in being part of the next series of Life of a
Intrusive Thoughts, Exhaustion & Crippling Shame: Kimberley Nixon’s Postnatal OCD Reality
TRIGGER WARNING: this episode contains some difficult conversations, including discussions around suicidal thoughts. We know this can be a lot to take in, so please do take care of yourself while listening and know that it's completely okay to step away and come back when you're ready 💛May is Maternal Mental Health Month, a reminder that keeping the difficult conversations going matters more than
Baby's First Breath | Life of a Midwife Ep. 2
What does it feel like to hold a life for the first time?In this episode of Life of a Midwife, three midwives tell us what it feels like to catch a baby!If you’re interested in being part of the next series of Life of a Midwife, we’d love to hear from you — just drop us an email midwives@pixiu.co.ukLinks from our midwives:BabySZN™ is a platform built to help women train specifically for ferti
'Nothing Came Naturally': Lydia West on Hyperemesis, Breastfeeding & Struggling to Connect
Over the past nine years, Happy Mum Happy Baby has evolved — and so has our mission! Increasingly, our conversations have centred on mums themselves: their mental health, wellbeing, relationships, and identity. Because when a mum feels supported, seen, and heard, everything else can flourish. So... welcome to the era of Happy Mum !And joining us to start this exciting new chapter is the gorgeous L
Making a Midwife | Life of a Midwife Ep. 1
To celebrate the international day of the midwife we’ve got something very special for you — the very first episode of our brand-new miniseries!Every Thursday, we’ll be sharing powerful stories from midwives, past and present, as they reflect on the moments that have shaped their lives and careers.In this first episode, we'll trace the moments two women were pulled into midwifery.We’ll return to o
Life of a Midwife: Due 5th May!
We’ve got a special delivery coming your way… a brand-new miniseries! Life of a Midwife brings you raw, honest, and deeply personal stories from midwives — past and present — as they share the moments that shaped not just their careers, but their lives.Our first episode drops on Tuesday 5th May, perfectly timed to celebrate International Day of the Midwife! And new episodes delivered every Thursda
Hannah Witton on Pregnancy with a Stoma: What It’s Really Like
This week Giovanna sits down with creator and OG YouTuber Hannah Witton!Hannah opens up about navigating motherhood while living with long-term chronic illness.She also shares her journey with secondary infertility and the emotional challenges of coping with other people’s pregnancy announcements. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
'I Was Told the Problem Was Me’: Raising My Autistic Daughter
Catherine Simpson thought she was failing as a mother throughout the first 10 years of her daughter Nina's life. After a decade of misdiagnosis, blame, and searching for answers, she finally discovered the truth: Nina is autistic.In this episode of Happy Mum Happy Baby, Catherine sits down with Giovanna for a conversation about the journey to getting Nina—now 31—her diagnosis.This episode is all a
Comedian Emma Doran: Pregnant at 18 in a Convent School
In this episode Giovanna sits down with comedian, author, and podcaster Emma Doran. Emma reflects on becoming pregnant as a teenager while attending an all-girls convent school, and the challenges that followed.She also shares how she began stand-up on maternity leave, performing her first open mic when her baby was just six weeks old!Catch Emma on tour! Emma Doran has extended her Emmaculate UK a
Vicky Pattison: What If I’m Not a Good Mum?
When it comes to having children, what happens when you’re just not sure?This week, Vicky Pattison and husband Ercan Ramadan join Gi for a chat about the pressure to decide, the different paths available—from having children to adoption, surrogacy, or choosing a child-free life—and why the answer isn’t always simple.Vicky also opens up about her childhood, shaped by complex family dynamics and her
How Jake Humphrey's ‘Horrible’ School Days Made Him a Better Parent
This week, we welcome broadcaster, High Performance Podcast host, and father of two, Jake Humphrey, to the studio.Jake and Giovanna share their experiences of being bullied at school, with Jake sharing how those early challenges later helped him navigate public scrutiny as the BBC’s F1 presenter. He also talks candidly about fertility struggles and the deal he made with his wife while trying to co
Why Hannah East Talks About Her Loss on Stage
In this episode, Gi sits down with comedian Hannah East to talk about the chaos of parenting three children.Hannah shares her unique career journey, from competing on Gladiators (where she met her husband) to presenting at the 2012 Olympics.She also opens up about her fertility struggles and two miscarriages, and how her experiences with grief inspired her to create a stand-up show to help others
Inside Debbie Bright’s Life as a Foster Carer
In this episode, Giovanna sits down with Debbie Bright for an eye-opening conversation about what it’s really like to be a foster carer. Best known to many from TOWIE, Debbie is also one of the UK’s longest-serving foster carers, having cared for over 200 children across 35 years.Gi and Debbie talk about why children enter care, the importance of showing compassion rather than judgm
Chessie King on the shocking reality of IVF costs
Our guest this week is presenter and author Chessie King!Chessie opens up to Giovanna about navigating her husband’s postnatal depression and the incredibly tough time that left their marriage on the brink of divorce.She also talks about the emotional journey of trying to conceive again after experiencing fertility struggles. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Steve Backshall: ‘it’s a terrible time to be a parent’
This week, Giovanna is joined by adventurer and explorer Steve Backshall Steve and Gi catch up on family life as he reflects on his childhood and how it shaped the person he is today. He also opens up about his wife Helen's inspiring journey training for the Tokyo Olympics just months after giving birth, and of course, there are plenty of tales from his iconic adventures along the way.LEGO® Educat
Episode 300: The Emma Willis Takeover
One huge milestone. One unforgettable twist 👀To celebrate 300 incredible episodes of Happy Mum Happy Baby, Giovanna finally finds herself on the other side of the table, lovingly nudged out of the hosting chair by none other than her best friend Emma Willis!In a perfect full-circle moment, Emma—who was HMHB’s very first guest—returns to turn the tables and get the full story on Gi’s
I survived postpartum psychosis — here's what I want you to know
TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains explicit discussion surrounding issues including depression, postpartum psychosis and suicidal thoughts. This may prove a difficult listen for some and if you feel that listening may affect you negatively then please choose another episode.This week Giovanna sits down with Jade Lloyd for a powerful and deeply personal interview about her experience with postp
Three babies, zero filters: Charlotte Dawson on pregnancy & postpartum life
This week, Giovanna is joined by the brilliantly funny reality star and mum of three, Charlotte Dawson!Charlotte opens up to Gi about honouring her dad Les Dawson’s memory at home, alongside her mission to champion body positivity for women everywhere.A hilarious, honest, and slightly chaotic episode — enjoy! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Default Parenting Hell with Lou Beckett
This week on Happy Mum Happy Baby, Giovanna chats with the brilliant Lou Beckett!Lou opens up about the pressures of breastfeeding, and shares how she and her husband Rob navigated the all-too-real 'roommate phase' during their early days of parenthood.She also talks about the mental load of being the 'default parent': the one who keeps family life ticking, from organising clubs and parties to tak
Denise Van Outen on dating as a mum: “if they disapprove, you’ll know”
National treasure of stage and screen Denise Van Outen joins Giovanna this week!Denise and Gi chat about their stagey childhoods and the impact motherhood has had on their careers in the performing arts.Plus, Denise opens up about her relationship with ex-partner Lee Mead and how they successfully co-parent their daughter, Betsy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
From addiction to manifestation: how motherhood saved Roxie Nafousi
This week, Giovanna is joined by manifestation expert and two-time Sunday Times bestselling author, Roxie Nafousi!Roxie opens up about her turbulent past with addiction and the powerful journey of finding sobriety when she became pregnant.Roxie also tells Gi about manifesting and the simple steps you can take now to shape the life you want later. You can check out Roxie’s guided visualis
Our daughter was seriously ill… until her brother saved her life
Being able to share incredible stories is a huge reason why we do this podcast.Last year, Giovanna read Lifeblood: A Mother in Search of Hope by author and journalist Mina Holland. The book reveals Mina’s harrowing journey after learning her baby, Vida, was critically ill just two days before turning 12 weeks old. What unfolded next was nothing short of extraordinary. Now, Mina joins Gi to share h
Leanne Quigley on filming The Traitors and the life-changing moment that followed (2/2)
Leanne Quigley is back for part two of her extraordinary conversation - if you haven't already heard part 1 you can listen here.In this episode, Leanne opens up to Gi about her experience on The Traitors, including the emotional challenge of leaving her two young boys while filming.She also reflects on the life-changing moment after filming when her fiancée, Sophie, was diagnosed with stage three
The Traitors winner Leanne Quigley on giving birth three and a half months early (1/2)
We’re hooked once again on the new series of The Traitors, so it felt only right that we sit down with Season 3 champion, Leanne Quigley for a chat on all things motherhood (and reality TV!)Leanne’s story is truly remarkable, and with so much to unpack we've divided this episode into two parts. In this first episode, Leanne opens up to Gi about her IVF journey with her partner Sophie, and the incr
New Year Special: UNRELEASED moments from 2025
This special episode features never-before-heard snippets from some of our favourite conversations, including: Dr Emily MacDonagh on the importance of honest conversations about the realities of parenting; Joanna Page on the chaos of writing a book while managing four children, and a bonus Q&A with Midwife Pip. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Carrie Hope Fletcher & Joel Montague: how to perform when you're sleep deprived (part 2)
Carrie and Joel are back for part 2 of their Christmassy chat!This time, we hear about the birth of their daughter Mabel, the challenges of sleep deprivation, and balancing work and family life in the theatre industry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Carrie Hope Fletcher & Joel Montague on stepping into their greatest roles yet (part 1)
It’s a true family affair on this week’s episode of Happy Mum Happy Baby!Gi’s sister-in-law Carrie Hope Fletcher and her husband Joel Montague stop by Gi's house for a very festive chat. The couple share what it’s like working together in their new roles in Elf The Musical, plus talk about how they prepared for the arrival of their now one-year-old daughter, Mabel.Don’t miss the second part of th
Nutritionist GQ Jordan: "recovering from a c-section changed my attitude to health"
This week Gi sits down with women's health nutritionist GQ Jordan, whose philosophy centres on listening to and nourishing your body - and making healthy eating feel simple and achievable.GQ opens up about her personal journey with IUI and IVF, sharing how nutrition can play a role in supporting our bodies through fertility treatment and beyond.She also opens up to Gi about her experience of baby
Sophie Ellis-Bextor: five c-sections, Murder on the Dance Floor, and the power of Perimenopop
The queen of disco is in the house!Pop icon and mother of five Sophie Ellis-Bextor joins Giovanna to chat motherhood, music, and everything in between.She tells Gi about falling pregnant with her son just 6 weeks into a new relationship, and shares her experiences with pre-eclampsia and caring for babies who battled sepsis and meningitis.Sophie's brilliant new album Perimenopop is o
Harriet Kemsley: "DON'T stay together for the kids"
Get ready for laughs, tears, and everything in between as Giovanna sits down with stand-up comedian Harriet Kemsley.Harriet opens up to Gi about the end of her marriage and why walking away was ultimately the best thing she could do for her family. She also talks about her PTSD and how it affected her during birth.Plus, Gi gets the inside scoop on Harriet’s new adventures in dating!Ps. Harriet is
How can we help men and boys with their mental health? Parenting SOS with Dr Alex George.
This November is Men's Mental Health Month so we're joined by the UK's Youth Metal Health Ambassador, Dr Alex George to discuss Paternal wellbeing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
From addiction to fatherhood: Jason Donovan on the letter that changed his life
Everybody needs good Neighbours — and this week, Gi’s joined by the ultimate one! Singer, actor, and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat LEGEND Jason Donovan opens up about the highs and lows of fame, his struggle with addiction, and the life-changing decision he made after becoming a dad for the first time.Plus, he opens up about the challenges and rewards of watching his three children
Pixie Lott: “I’m ready to have this baby… let’s make it happen RIGHT now!”
Turn It Up as this week we’re joined by perhaps our most pregnant guest yet...? the incredible singer and pop superstar, Pixie Lott! Pixie chats with Gi about her second pregnancy, from what it’s like to perform while heavily pregnant to how she’s helping her toddler get ready to become a big sibling.Plus, Pixie opens up about how meditation has helped her through some of life’s tougher momen
Keira Knightley: "I was suddenly pregnant doing an Oscar campaign"
Roll out the red carpet because this week we welcome the one and only Keira Knightley to the Happy Mum Happy Baby studio!She's known all around the world for her unforgettable roles in Pride and Prejudice, Love Actually, Pirates of the Caribbean and Bend It Like Beckham (just to name a few!). Now a proud mum of two, Keira sits down with Giovanna for a brilliantly unfi
Giovanna Joins Joel Dommett on ‘And The Award Goes To…’!!
Subscribe to ‘And The Award Goes To…’ hereIn this bonus episode, Giovanna appears on a brand new podcast, ‘And The Award Goes To….’. It’s the awards show that’s also a podcast, where guests dish out five awards across five categories created especially for herSo listen in, as Gi offers up her winners for a whole host of awards, including the Best Line From a Film, the Best Way to Keep The Kids Ent
The ultimate guide to preparing for birth: Parenting SOS with Midwife Pip
For this month's Parenting SOS, Gi is joined by the wonderful Midwife Pip to chat all things pregnancy and postpartum.From the rollercoaster of pregnancy hormones to who is actually in the delivery room, Pip shares what to expect every step of the way. Plus, she sets the record straight on some of the biggest birth myths, like does having sex actually induce labour??A must-listen for anyone gettin
Tess Daly: " the show must go on, no matter what"
Put your feet up and get cosy, this episode of Happy Mum Happy Baby comes straight to you from Gi’s sofa! And who better to join her than Mrs Saturday Night, Tess Daly!Tess has been a familiar face on our screens for over two decades, but what does motherhood look like beyond the glitter of the Strictly ballroom?Gi and Tess dive into sleepless nights, the trials and triumphs of raising teenagers,
Natalie Cassidy beyond Albert Square: grief, body image, and motherhood
They don't get more iconic than this... this week Giovanna welcomes EastEnders legend and ultimate hun, Natalie Cassidy!Natalie and Gi talk about growing up in the public eye, the rollercoaster of raising teens, and how her feelings about her body image have shifted over the years.Plus, Natalie opens up about navigating grief after the death of her parents.You can read more about Natalie's journey
Joanna Page on placenta praevia, babies on set, and tandem breastfeeding
This week on Happy Mum Happy Baby we say hiya to actress, presenter and mother of four Joanna Page!Joanna opens up to Gi about life after Gavin & Stacey, and shares how she juggles the chaos of raising four children (and many pets!) alongside her acting career.She also reflects on the complications she faced during pregnancy, as well as her experience of becoming pregnant again at 44.Joan
Why do I feel so lonely? Parenting SOS with Michelle Kennedy
94% of new mums experience loneliness... but you don’t have to go through it alone.This month on Parenting SOS, Gi sits down with Michelle Kennedy, founder and CEO of networking app Peanut. Together, they explore why motherhood can feel so isolating, and what it means to build a village.Plus, Michelle answers your questions and shares some simple, practical ways to start creating meaningful connec
Davina McCall on motherhood, finding love again, and recovering from brain surgery
Back in 2018, the iconic Davina McCall kicked off the second series of Happy Mum Happy Baby. And now… she’s back!!The legendary TV host behind some of the UK’s biggest reality shows and a fierce advocate for women’s health joins Gi once again for an honest and unfiltered conversation about childbirth, motherhood, and the realities of womanhood.She also opens up about undergoing brain surgery
Ali Harris on baby loss and the importance of honouring grief
On this week's episode, Giovanna sits down with author Ali Harris for a deeply moving conversation about love, loss and finding hope through grief.Ali carried her third child, Poppy, for just under twenty-four weeks until the day she delivered her, knowing she had already died. She opens up to Gi about navigating this loss, and how she has channeled that pain, healing, and hope into writing.
Denise Lewis on feeling professional isolation after becoming a mum
Olympic champion, presenter and author Dame Denise Lewis joins us this week for an inspiring chat about balancing ambition and career with motherhood. Denise discusses the lack of support she experienced in the sporting world when she became pregnant at the peak of her career. Plus, she recounts an unexpected chapter in her life when, at 46, symptoms she attributed to perimenopause were
Sophie Kasaei: Staying positive during fertility struggles
We're very excited this week to be joined by Geordie Shore legend Sophie Kasaei! Sophie first graced our screens in 2011 as part of the OG Geordie Shore cast and is now using her platform to shine a light on the many different journeys to parenthood.Sophie opens up to Gi about her personal struggle with conceiving, the emotional highs and lows she's experienced so far, and the impact it’s had on h
How can I ease back-to-school anxiety? Parenting SOS with Saskia Joss
Returning to school after the summer holidays can be an anxious time for many children. So for this month's Parenting SOS, we invited child anxiety specialist and author of Help! My Child's Anxiety is Giving me Anxiety Saskia Joss to the studio to help us make the back-to-school transition as smooth as possible.Saskia ad Gi talk about some of the reasons why children might feel anxious about retur
Marcel Somerville: communication and respect is the key to co-parenting
This week Giovanna is joined by musician and father of one Marcel Somerville!First finding fame in the early 2000s with Blazin’ Squad, Marcel went on to appear on our screens in Love Island and then Love Island: All stars.He opens up to Gi about prioritising his son throughout his marriage breakup, his Type 1 Diabetes diagnosis, and how he really feels about his return to the Love Island Villa.Mar
Suzi Ruffell: ‘I thought I wouldn’t become a parent because I’m gay’
Stand-up comedian, podcaster and author Suzi Ruffell joins us for this week’s episode!Suzi tells Gi about the lack of queer representation she saw growing up and how it made her feel shame around her sexuality for a long time.Plus, she opens up about navigating motherhood as someone with anxiety and the ongoing challenge of learning not to catastrophise.Suzi's brilliant new book 'Am I Having
Summer holiday catch-up with Giovanna
Gi is back from her family holiday and ready for a chat!Plus we revisit some of our episodes to hear what summer tips and tales our guests have shared with us over the years, including:Kerry Hudson on the joy of travelling with kidsHarry and Izzy Judd on having a summer babyThe Travelling Gays on keeping their routine on holidayLouise Thompson on struggling to leave the house when living with PTSD
What first aid should I know to keep my child safe this summer? Parenting SOS with Kate Ball
The summer holidays are here! Whether we're going away or staying closer to home, keeping our little ones safe is always top of mind. So this month on Parenting SOS, founder of Mini First Aid Kate Ball is here to share her top tips to get you ready for a great summer!Kate and Gi run through some of the best ways to prevent accidents, from swimming safety to sunburn protection.Plus, Kate explains t
Rick Edwards and Emer Kenny on throwing out the birth plan
We love a couples interview on Happy Mum Happy Baby and this week is no exception as broadcaster Rick Edwards and actor & writer Emer Kenny join Gi in the studio.They chat about getting engaged after six weeks(!), plus Rick shares how he tried to make himself useful during Emer's 40+ hour labour.The couple also open up about navigating freelancing and family, with Emer explaining how she manag
Dr Emily MacDonagh on why she and Peter Andre won’t have anymore children
A couple of months ago we welcomed Peter Andre onto the podcast... and now his wife Dr Emily MacDonagh is here to set the record straight!Emily opens up to Gi about becoming a mum at 24 whilst completing her doctor training, and discusses what being a step parent means to her.Plus, Emily shares the story of her third birth for the first time, the complications of which led to the realisation that
Olivia Rubin on embracing colour, slowing down, and balancing motherhood and business
This week Gi is joined by fashion designer and queen of colour Olivia Rubin!Olivia talks about balancing the success of her growing business with parenting her two daughters, and tells Gi why she's decided to scale things back.Olivia also opens up about struggling mentally after the birth of her first child. As postnatal mental health was rarely spoken about, Olivia admits at the time she didn't k
Is skincare for teens harmful? Parenting SOS with Dr. Emma Craythorne
For this episode of Parenting SOS, we’re joined by dermatologist and host of The Bad Skin Clinic, Dr Emma Craythorne. Dr. Emma explains how our skin barrier evolves from childhood through adulthood, and discusses the potential risks that popular skincare trends such as the ‘Sephora kids’ phenomenon pose to young, developing skin.Plus, Dr Emma answers your questions on common pre-teen skin conditio
Happy Dad, Happy Baby!
In celebration of Father's day, Gi's been digging through the archives again! She's put together some of her favourite chats from some of her favourite dads, including:Tom Fletcher on how miscarriage affects dads tooJeff Brazier on trying to give his kids what he didn't have growing upPaul C Brunson on men's emotional healthMatt Willis on how fatherhood was a turning point in fighting addictionJam
Ryan Libbey on supporting his partner through birth trauma
Our guest this week is personal trainer, podcaster, and former Made in Chelsea star Ryan Libbey!When Ryan’s partner Louise Thompson gave birth to their son Leo, she faced severe complications and trauma that turned their worlds upside down. We spoke to Louise last year on the podcast and now it’s Ryan’s turn to share his story. Ryan opens up to Gi about letting go of the pressure to always be
Rose and Rosie on parenthood as a same-sex couple
We're very excited this week to welcome everyone's favourite Youtube couple to the studio - it's Rose and Rosie!As a same-sex couple, finding information on how to start a family is not easy. Rose and Rosie open up to Gi about the challenges of navigating a heteronormative healthcare system, from choosing a sperm donor, to IUI vs IVF, and what it's like to be the 'other mother.'Plus, they discuss
Lottie Tomlinson on family tragedy, embracing her body, and navigating anxious thoughts
This week we welcome author, entrepreneur and mum of two Lottie Tomlinson to the Happy Mum Happy Baby studio! Lottie opens up to Gi about losing her mum and how she has navigated her own parenting journey without her mum by her side.Plus, Lottie reflects on finding her truest confidence since having her children and explains why she's no longer hiding behind beauty treatments.Lottie's memoir Lucky
Breast cancer awareness: Ali Bastian shares her story
For a special episode dedicated to breast cancer awareness, this week Giovanna sits down with actress and mum of two, Ali BastianLast year, while breastfeeding her youngest daughter, Ali began experiencing severe pain and discovered a lump in her breast. Despite her concerns, she was told it was likely a blocked duct from feeding.Ali opens up about what followed - her breast cancer diagnosis,
Peter Andre: "don’t make the same mistakes. Make new ones."
WIth his iconic hit 'Mysterious Girl' turning 30 this year, we thought it was about time we caught up with dad of 5 Peter Andre!This episode is full of heart, with Peter opening up to Gi about the overwhelming emotion of meeting each of his children for the first time, and how he's embraced being a newborn dad again in his fifties.Plus, Peter reveals the one strict rule he's set for his teenagers,
Cariad Lloyd on talking to children about death
This week Giovanna is joined by comedian and actor Cariad Lloyd.Cariad is also the creator and host of the award-winning podcast Griefcast. She shares with Gi the profound impact of losing her father unexpectedly as a teenager and how that experience has shaped her life and work.They also discuss the importance of language when talking about death and Cariad explains how she has approached convers
Siân Welby on problematic ’too posh to push’ stigma
Our guest this week is the hilarious radio & TV presenter Siân Welby!Siân's career has gone from strength to strength over the years, and she opens up about wanting to hide her pregnancy out of fear she would be replaced at work.Plus, the pressures of breastfeeding, 'too posh to push', and a case of mistaken midwife identity! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The ADHD Parenting Toolkit with Dr Mine Conkbayir
On this week's episode of Parenting SOS, we’re joined by Dr. Mine Conkbayir. Mine is an expert in neuroscience and has worked in early childhood education and care for 25 years. She's also an ADHD mum of one.Mine and Gi discuss how hormonal changes during pregnancy and postpartum can impact ADHD behaviours, and the importance of honest, supportive conversation between ADHD and non-ADHD parents and
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