We talk about betrayal, telling the children, grief, anger, identity, people pleasing, and how she slowly created a life she never expected to love. This is an honest conversation about losing the future you imagined and discovering something better on the other side.

🎙️ Topics: divorce, affairs, co-parenting, motherhood, rebuilding after heartbreak, relationships & resilience.

In this powerful episode, Charis sits down with Deborah Bright, who has spent the last 35 years fostering more than 200 children alongside raising her own family and adopting two children herself.

Deborah shares the realities of fostering, from welcoming newborn babies into her home to the heartbreak of saying goodbye when they move on. She opens up about the emotional toll, the impact on her family, the challenges of caring for traumatised children, and the moments that have made it all worthwhile.

Together, Charis and Deborah discuss:
• How Deborah first became a foster carer
• The hardest part of fostering
• Supporting children through trauma and loss
• Maintaining relationships with birth families
• Why there is a shortage of foster carers
• The realities of fostering teenagers
• The emotional impact on foster carers and their families
• The moment Deborah knew she'd made a difference

This is an honest, moving conversation about love, loss, resilience and the life-changing impact of opening your home to a child in need.

If you've ever considered fostering, or simply want to hear an extraordinary story from someone who has dedicated her life to helping children, this episode is for you.

In this powerful and deeply honest conversation, a father shares what it really felt like in the early days of his son’s autism diagnosis - the fear, the uncertainty, and the quiet grief that so many parents experience but rarely talk about.

From spiralling thoughts about the future…
to feeling like everyone else has it easier…
to questioning everything you thought parenting would be…

This is the reality behind the moments no one sees.

💔 “What you’re grieving, in a sense, is the life you imagined.”

We talk about:
- The emotional impact of an autism diagnosis
- The pressure parents feel to “do everything right”
- Feeling isolated in everyday situations
- Why grief can exist even when your child is right in front of you
- Learning to navigate a completely different version of parenthood

If you’re a parent feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or alone in this - this conversation will make you feel seen.

He reflects on the moment their “normal life” changed forever, the challenges of explaining illness and death to a small child, and how he has continued to parent through heartbreak, responsibility, and love. This conversation explores grief, resilience, and what it means to keep going when everything you planned for your future disappears.

A powerful story of love, loss, and legacy — and how one family continues to honour Laura’s memory every day.

Topics include:

• Sarcoma diagnosis and treatment journey
• Parenting through terminal illness
• Sudden loss and bereavement
• Explaining death to young children
• Life after losing a partner
• Building legacy and raising awareness of sarcoma

From tantrums and public judgment to boundaries, punishment, emotional regulation and screen time, this conversation offers a calmer, more compassionate way to understand children without losing the need for firm, loving limits.

Because children aren’t mini adults - and parenting isn’t about controlling them, it’s about guiding them.

Emma shares her personal experience of becoming a mum while dealing with intense intrusive thoughts, anxiety, and hypervigilance - and why these thoughts can feel so real, distressing, and confusing.

We explore what intrusive thoughts actually are, why they are so common in new parents, and the truth behind fears like “what if this means something about me?”

This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating postpartum anxiety, OCD, or struggling with thoughts they feel scared to say out loud.

If you’ve ever questioned your thoughts, your identity, or felt alone in your experience - you’re not alone.

Topics covered:

Postpartum OCD

Intrusive thoughts in motherhood

Maternal mental health

Anxiety and hypervigilance after birth

Neurodivergence and parenting

Listen now for an honest, reassuring conversation that will help you better understand your mind - and feel less alone 🤍

In this episode, we talk honestly about what parenting really looks like when you’re navigating ADHD yourself — from emotional dysregulation and overwhelm to the guilt, shame, and moments you wish you could take back.

We cover:

• Why traditional parenting advice doesn’t work for ADHD brains
• The reality of parenting with low sleep, no routines, and no capacity
• ADHD and emotional dysregulation (and why it’s not a “lack of effort”)
• The fear of losing control as a parent
• Late ADHD diagnosis and the impact of growing up misunderstood
• Why so many ADHD parents feel like they’re “failing”
• How self-compassion can actually change everything

This is a raw, honest conversation about the parts of parenting people don’t talk about — especially for neurodivergent parents.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, reactive, or like you’re not the parent you “should” be… you are not alone.

You are not broken. You just need the right support.

Bex shares the heartbreaking story of discovering there was no heartbeat at her 12-week scan during Covid, the traumatic physical experience of miscarriage, and the loneliness that followed. Together, we discuss the things nobody prepares you for - the medical language, the shame, the isolation, the impact on relationships, and why so many people feel unable to talk about pregnancy loss openly.

We also explore:

• What miscarriage is really like physically and emotionally
• Why baby loss still feels so taboo
• The comments that help - and the ones that hurt
• Navigating grief while parenting other children
• Fertility struggles, jealousy, anger, and guilt
• How Bex went from sharing one honest post online to co-founding The Worst Girl Gang Ever Foundation
• Why no one going through miscarriage should feel alone

This episode is raw, honest, validating, and incredibly important for anyone who has experienced miscarriage, fertility struggles, or baby loss - or wants to better support someone who has.

If this conversation resonates with you, please like, comment, and share to help normalise these conversations around pregnancy loss and grief.

But what if that expectation is actually hurting us?

In this highlight episode, psychologist and author Susie explains why the “selfless mum” myth leads to burnout, resentment, and losing your sense of self - and how small shifts in self-compassion and self-advocacy can change everything.

You’ll also learn simple tools to calm your nervous system, reconnect with yourself in everyday moments, and show up as the parent you truly want to be.

Because motherhood doesn’t mean you stop mattering.

In this emotional episode, a father shares the reality of raising a nonverbal child - from the heartbreak of self-harm and the fear of an uncertain future, to the questions every parent is scared to ask:

Will they ever speak?
Will they make friends?
Will they live independently?

This is a raw, honest conversation about autism, parenting, and the mental spiral so many parents experience - but rarely say out loud.

And then… a moment that changes everything.

A small, unexpected act of affection that redefines connection, communication, and hope.

If you’re a parent navigating autism, speech delays, or just the overwhelming unknowns of raising a child, this episode will stay with you.

👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to be the first to hear more real parenting stories every week.

In this episode, we dive into one of the biggest parenting debates right now: screen time, smartphones, and how to support children’s emotional development in a digital world. From toddler tantrums to teenage group chats, we unpack what’s actually going on beneath behaviour - and why emotional regulation is a skill that takes practice, not punishment.

We talk about why telling kids to “calm down” often backfires, how to respond to big emotions in a way that actually works, and why perfection isn’t the goal when it comes to parenting. The conversation also explores the reality of screen use today - breaking down the difference between screens vs content, the pressures parents face, and how to set healthy boundaries without guilt.

You’ll also hear practical advice on:

Managing tantrums and emotional outbursts

Teaching kids lifelong coping skills

Setting realistic screen time boundaries

Navigating smartphones, social media, and peer pressure

Modelling healthy behaviour as a parent

This is an honest, relatable conversation for any parent trying to do their best in a world that feels increasingly overwhelming.

Because it’s not about getting it perfect - it’s about making small, meaningful changes that actually stick.

What it’s really like parenting with ADHD

Why most parenting advice isn’t designed for neurodivergent parents

The shame many ADHD parents carry

Why ADHD isn’t a “lack of attention”

How self-compassion can transform parenting

In this raw and honest conversation, she shares what no one talks about - the heartbreak of handing your child over for the first time, rebuilding financially from scratch, navigating co-parenting, dating after an 11-year relationship, and overcoming postnatal depression.

We talk about:

• Divorce with a young child
• The emotional rollercoaster of separation
• Co-parenting and putting your child first
• Losing your identity in motherhood
• Rebuilding confidence after divorce
• Dating again as a single mum
• Mental health, resilience and starting over

This episode is for any mum who feels lost, overwhelmed, or like this chapter might define her forever.

It won’t.

Subscribe for more honest conversations about motherhood, identity, relationships and rebuilding after life doesn’t go to plan.

In this deeply honest conversation, chartered psychologist and author Suzy shares how the birth of her first child coincided with her father’s terminal illness - a period she describes as “energetic bankruptcy.” From that collision of life events came a powerful realisation: “My depression served no one. My replenishment served everyone.”

Together, we explore:

• Why motherhood feels so relentless
• The “pandemic of not enoughness” affecting women
• Why resentment is often unvoiced disappointment
• The difference between selfishness and self-advocacy
• Why self-care alone isn’t enough - we must also learn to receive

This episode is a permission slip for every mother who feels flat, disconnected, guilty for needing time, or unsure who she is anymore.

Because you can be a loving mum and an autonomous human being.

And you still matter.

In this episode of Parent Unplugged, we’re joined by paediatric nutritionist Charlotte to unpack why food rules like “eat your dinner before pudding” can create pressure, hierarchy, and long-term food struggles - even when they’re well-intentioned.

We talk about:

Why putting dessert on a pedestal can backfire

How pressure at mealtimes leads to food refusal

The difference between restriction and guidance

Why exposure (not force) builds food confidence

The “1% change” approach that actually works for fussy eating

And why pouches alone aren’t appropriate - without the guilt or fear-mongering

This conversation is honest, compassionate, and grounded in real parenting - messy moments, wobble days, and all. If you’re exhausted by fussy eating, confused by conflicting advice, or worried you’re “doing food wrong,” this one’s for you.

🎧 Listen now - and breathe. You’re not failing.

Perfect for parents of children ages 2-7 who want to understand anxiety, navigate school challenges, and build a calmer home environment.

In this episode of Parent Unplugged, Charis is joined by clinical psychologist Dr Holly Symons to explain what’s really happening beneath those after-school meltdowns. From “restraint collapse” and emotional regulation to why children feel safest releasing big feelings at home, this conversation offers clarity, reassurance, and practical ways to support your child without trying to fix or suppress their emotions.

A must-listen for parents navigating big feelings, busy days, and the chaos of home life.

In this episode of Parent Unplugged, we’re joined by Dr Caroline Boyd, clinical psychologist and specialist in maternal rage, anger, and anxiety, to unpack the question so many mothers silently ask themselves:

“Why aren’t I coping better?”

We explore why maternal anger is so common, why it’s so deeply stigmatised, and why it has nothing to do with being a “bad mum.” From broken sleep and sensory overload to being the default parent and carrying invisible mental load, Dr Boyd explains how modern motherhood creates the perfect conditions for rage - and why anger is not the problem, but a messenger.

In this conversation, we talk about:

What maternal rage actually is (and why it’s not a personal failure)

Why anger often turns inward as shame and self-criticism

The pressure of “perfect” and gentle parenting ideals

Why mothers feel guilty for emotions they were never taught how to handle

The “drip, drip, drip” effect that leads to explosive moments

Practical ways to regulate anger in the moment

How to repair after losing your temper - with your child and yourself

Why compassion, not control, is the key to breaking cycles

This episode is for any parent who has ever felt overwhelmed, touched-out, overstimulated, or ashamed of their own emotions - and wants to understand themselves with more kindness.

You are not broken. You are human. And you are not alone.

We talk about different contextual forces at play that shape our responses to anger. These social contexts are numerous and varied for every individual, often including important identities such as race, class and sexuality, which influence how we feel and express anger.About CarolineClinical psychologist Dr Caroline Boyd has over 10 years' experience working in the NHS and mental health settings, and she supports parents from pregnancy to childbirth and beyond. Caroline offers anger courses, workshops and 1:1 therapy in her independent psychology practice, Parent Therapy Hub.Caroline is the author of Mindful New Mum, and her published research explores mothers' experiences of intrusive thoughts about their babies. Her work has been featured in You magazine, Elle, Grazia, the Telegraph and Woman's Hour on BBC Radio 4, and she is an Ambassador for UK perinatal mental health charity, PANDAS. Caroline shares psychology ideas on Instagram and in the media to help parents feel less alone and more connected - to themselves and their children.You can reach Caroline at drcarolineboyd.com or via Instagram @_drboyd Caroline offers a self-paced anger course for mothers (USE THE CODE “PODCAST” TO CLAIM YOUR £100 DISCOUNT): Download Caroline’s FREE GUIDE on how to handle anger in HOT moments:For an overview of Caroline’s work, including her book, Mindful New Mum, click here.If you’re struggling with difficult thoughts and feelings or if this episode raises any concerns for you, please talk to a trusted health professional such as your GP.You can also reach out to the services below: UK: PANDAS offer a free, bookable call service Samaritans – 116 123US: Postpartum Support International - 1-800-944-4773 (4PPD)For emergency help - call 999 or visit your local A&E department

From the shame of that preschool email, to a family trip to Dubai that spiralled into sick babies, surprise medical bills, an emergency tooth extraction, traffic chaos, and ice cream for dinner in a shopping mall - this is a raw, funny, and painfully relatable reminder that parenting doesn’t pause just because you’ve gone abroad.

If you’ve ever come back from a “holiday” more exhausted than when you left, felt guilty for admitting it wasn’t magical, or wondered why everything is harder when you’re away from home - this confession is for you.

Real stories. No filters. You’re not alone.

Lucy also explains why chocolate can have its place, why children aren’t addicted to sugar, and how relaxing around food actually helps kids regulate their own appetite. Perfect for parents who want confidence, not stress, at the dinner table.

Anna shares the moment she realised she had nothing left in the tank - sitting on the kitchen floor, unable to pack a bag or make a simple decision - and how burnout became one of her most painful teachers. Together, they unpack why so many parents tie their identity to productivity, why exhaustion gets applauded, and how guilt keeps us stuck in cycles of depletion.

This conversation is a powerful reminder that burnout isn’t a personal failure - it’s a collective issue. And that caring for yourself isn’t selfish, it’s essential. For your mental health, for your nervous system, and for the children who need to see you rested, resourced, and able to laugh again.

Charlie is loved for sharing motherhood as it really is - honest, messy, and full of heart. In this episode we talk about:

⭐️ Why she started The Good, The Hard, and The Chaos

⭐️ The family-of-five car story and everyday parenting chaos

⭐️ Why small moments of calm (like breakfast alone) matter so much

⭐️ How she handles being the “shouty mum” on tough days

⭐️ The little joys that make the chaos worthwhile

Annabel shares the heartbreaking story of losing her daughter Natasha as a baby, the devastating circumstances surrounding her death, and the life-altering decision that followed: to have another child and channel her grief into something meaningful.

What began as a mother trying to nourish her son and rebuild his health became a book written as therapy - one that was rejected by every publisher before going on to sell over five million copies worldwide.

Alongside her personal story, Annabel offers clear, reassuring guidance on weaning, choking vs gagging, iron needs, allergies, fussy eating, and how parents can feel more confident during one of the most pressured stages of early parenting.

This episode is about more than feeding children.

It’s about grief, resilience, science-led parenting - and creating a legacy from love.

I’m joined by Dr Tara Porter, clinical psychologist and Sunday Times bestselling author of Good Enough.

Tara shares powerful insights on why striving for perfection leaves parents burnt out and how “good enough” is exactly what children need.

We cover:

⭐️ Why perfectionism makes parenting harder

⭐️ How to balance being firm and kind

⭐️ What “good enough” looks like at different ages and stages

⭐️ Practical ways to ease guilt and find self-compassion

⭐️ Three simple actions parents can take this week to feel more confident

We explore why mealtimes can trigger fight-or-flight, how nutrient depletion affects regulation and behaviour, and what actually helps children feel safe enough to expand their diet. A must-watch for parents of selective or neurodivergent eaters.

⭐️ How to stop yelling and manage those heated moments

⭐️ Coping with guilt after you lose your temper

⭐️ Top tips for parents’ own emotional regulation

⭐️ Why kids need to feel their big feelings (and why we shouldn’t rush to fix them)

⭐️ How to reframe negative self-talk like “I should be grateful” or “I’m snapping too much”

#ParentingPodcast #GentleParenting #PositiveParenting #ParentingTips #MumLif

In this 10-minute Parent Unplugged highlight, parenting coach Charis Halsall speaks with child sleep specialist Gemma Coe about what’s really going on beneath toddler sleep struggles - and how to respond without power struggles or unrealistic expectations.

Together, they explore:

Why toddlers resist bedtime (and why “7 till 7” often isn’t realistic)

How routines and visual cues can make bedtime feel fairer

What to do when children keep getting out of bed

Early waking, dropped naps, and changing sleep needs

Holding your child’s hand to fall asleep - when it helps and when it can backfire

Separation anxiety, night terrors, and co-sleeping

How parents can balance their child’s sleep needs with their own wellbeing

A calm, honest conversation for parents who want realistic sleep support - without blame, pressure, or rigid rules.

I’m joined by the brilliant @morgancutlip to talk about the unseen emotional load so many of us are carrying - and what we can do to feel more supported, less resentful, and more like ourselves again.

We talk about:

⭐ Why the day-to-day of motherhood can feel so exhausting

⭐ The frustration of having to ask your partner for help

⭐ How to deal with quiet resentment in your relationship

⭐ Getting more comfortable with needing - and receiving - support

⭐ What invisible labour actually looks like (and why it matters)

⭐ Small changes that can help you feel more like a team

In this short edit, Emily shares:

Why tantrums are signs of overwhelm, not bad behaviour

Why children don’t always “listen” - especially during play

How connection before correction reduces power struggles

What parental triggers can teach us about ourselves

Why punishment doesn’t work - and what helps instead

This is conscious parenting made practical - designed for busy parents who want clarity, reassurance, and calm in just ten minutes.

I’m joined by Jo Rodriguez, a health psychologist and the voice behind Straightforward Psychology on Instagram (63k followers). She helps overwhelmed, exhausted adults feel less sh*t - and in this chat, we bring her wisdom straight into the world of parenting.

Here’s what we cover:

⭐ Why kids trigger us more than anyone else

⭐ What happens when we calm the body first so the mind can follow

⭐ How to know if you’re tired vs burned out

⭐ Finding yourself again after having kids

⭐ Why parenting brings out so much anxiety

⭐ The guilt parents feel for putting themselves first - and how to move past it

#ParentingPodcast #ParentBurnout #MumLifeUnplugged #ParentAnxiety #ParentSupport #OverwhelmedParents

⭐️ Why labelling food as “good” or “bad” is unhelpful

⭐️ Practical things parents can do at mealtimes to protect children’s relationship with food

⭐️ How to stop our own food issues spilling onto our kids

⭐️ The importance of language we use about our own bodies

⭐️ How to handle comments from grandparents like “clear your plate” or “no pudding until you’ve eaten your veg”

⭐️ What The Danish Way is all about

⭐️ The PARENT model explained simply

⭐️ How to bring more play into everyday life

⭐️ Why honesty matters, even in tough conversations

⭐️ How hygge and togetherness build strong family bonds

#ParentingPodcast #GentleParenting #PositiveParenting #ParentingTips #MumLife

Emma breaks down why toddlers often hit that “neophobic stage” (yep, there’s an evolutionary reason they suddenly act like broccoli might kill them), and the red flags that suggest a child may need extra help with eating.

We talk about:

• What typical fussy eating looks like

• When pickiness becomes “problem eating”

• Texture issues, sensory overload, and why dinner time is the hardest meal

• The gentle, step-by-step exposure approach that actually works

• Why pressure backfires - even when you’re desperate

• How to structure meals so kids feel safe, not overwhelmed

• The power of play, sensory exploration, and getting kids involved

• When to trust your gut and seek support

It’s a compassionate, practical conversation for any parent who’s exhausted by mealtime battles or quietly worrying, “Should my child have grown out of this by now?”

You’re not failing. Your kid isn’t broken.

And Emma’s wisdom might just change your whole approach.

⭐️ Why motherhood today feels harder than ever

⭐️ The truth about mum-guilt and how to ease it

⭐️ How to spot the signs of burnout before it takes hold

⭐️ The boundaries mums need most (and why they’re so hard to set)

⭐️ Why self-compassion could be the most important parenting tool we have

We cover:

⭐️ How to set boundaries at family gatherings without the guilt

⭐️ What to do if you don’t want to host Christmas this year

⭐️ Managing split families and different generations

⭐️ How to handle gifts you don’t want your children to have

⭐️ Why you don’t have to keep every single tradition alive

#ParentingPodcast #GentleParenting #ChristmasStress #ParentingTips #MumLife

Here’s what we’ll cover:

• How to extend naps using simple tweaks that really make a difference

• What to do about frequent night wakings and how to ease your baby back into restful sleep

• The key signs of overtiredness - plus how to stay ahead of them

• Gentle, sustainable routines that support better sleep without pressure or tears

• Solutions for early rising, so mornings start a little less… early

If you’re longing for longer naps, smoother nights, and a calmer rhythm for your family, this episode is for you.

#babysleephelp #gentleparenting #parentingpodcast #babysleep #babyroutine

⭐ What peaceful discipline really means

⭐ The debate around punishments and rewards

⭐ Why connection is the key to cooperation

⭐ Rethinking timeouts

⭐ How to break your own generational cycles

#PeacefulParenting #ParentingPodcast #GentleParenting #PositiveDiscipline #ParentUnplugged

Here’s what we cover:

⭐ Sarah’s personal journey parenting a child with explosive behaviour

⭐ Why explosive behaviour isn’t always ADHD — and why that matters

⭐ How to cope with judgment as a parent when your child struggles

⭐ Practical strategies to help in the heat of the moment

⭐ How to shift from guilt and self-blame to understanding and connection

This week I’m joined by Kate Mouyousef, women’s wellbeing coach, author of The ADHD Women’s Wellbeing Toolkit, and host of the ADHD Women’s Wellbeing Podcast. Kate is passionate about helping women understand their ADHD, nurture their wellbeing, and thrive in everyday life.

⭐ What ADHD can actually look like in young girls (it’s not always hyperactivity)

⭐ Why so many girls go undiagnosed — and how they learn to mask

⭐ “She’s just sensitive” or “dreamy” — when it might actually be ADHD

⭐ The crossover between ADHD and anxiety

⭐ The emotional weight of being undiagnosed as a mum

⭐ How to begin exploring ADHD — gently and without overwhelm

⭐ The support to ask for at school (and why masking matters)

⭐ Why it’s never too late to understand yourself better

#ADHDGirls #ADHDWomen #ParentingADHD #NeurodivergentMums #ParentUnpluggedPodcast

This week on Parent Unplugged, I sat down with relationship therapist Suzie Booth to unpack the real reasons your relationship shifts after a baby — and how to find your way back to each other.

We covered:

✨ Why the transition to parenthood is such a big deal for your relationship

✨ The most common arguments new parents have (and what’s really behind them)

✨ How to support mums when they feel isolated and invisible

✨ How to make space for both partners’ experiences — without blame

✨ Why dads often feel left out — and what they really need to hear

#ParentingPodcast #NewParentsSupport #RelationshipAfterBaby #PostpartumLife #WhyCouplesFight

✨ What’s inside:

⭐ What exactly is self-compassion?

⭐ How is it different from self-esteem?

⭐ Real-life stories from Jamie’s research

⭐ What we can say when our child is upset

⭐ How a parent’s self-talk impacts a child’s sense of worth

⭐ What to do if you struggle with self-compassion too

#gentleparenting #selfcompassion #mindfulparenting #positiveparenting #motherhoodunplugged

⭐ How Emilia went from being an “angry mum” to the peaceful parent she is today

⭐ Where to begin when you’re stuck in a shouting or snapping cycle

⭐ What peaceful parenting really looks like in real-life chaos (think dinner time meltdowns!)

⭐ Emotional regulation for mums who weren’t taught it themselves

⭐ The meaning behind “Is your baby good?” — and why we need to rethink that

⭐ Why breaking all the cycles isn’t always realistic — and what to do instead

⭐ What to try when your partner doesn’t parent the same way

⭐ One small, doable thing you can try today if you’re overwhelmed

Brain Food for Neurodiverse Kids 🧠🥦

This week on Parenting Unplugged, I’m joined by Lucinda Miller, author of Brain Food Brilliance & founder of NatureDoc, to explore how nutrition can support focus, mood, and emotional wellbeing — especially for neurodiverse children.

We cover:

⭐ Are there certain foods or ingredients that can have a negative effect?

⭐ What’s the real impact of sugar?

⭐ Key foods that help with focus, mood, and regulation

⭐ The gut-brain connection — and why it matters

⭐ How different neurodiverse profiles (like ADHD and dyslexia) respond to nutrition

⭐ Why breakfast is more important than you might think

⭐ Are there differences between boys and girls when it comes to food and behaviour?

#ParentingPodcast #NeurodiverseParenting #BrainFoodForKids #GentleParenting #ADHDFamily

✨ What we cover:

🌟 The most common viruses and illnesses in kids under 10

🌟 Simple cold remedies that actually work

🌟 Common myths about home remedies (and what to skip)

🌟 What to do when your child is congested

🌟 When antibiotics are needed (and when they’re not)

🌟 Ear infections, sore throats, and OTC medicines

⭐ Why there’s so much conflicting advice out there — and what to trust

⭐ What to do when your child refuses to eat vegetables

⭐ Do kids really need to eat three meals a day — or is grazing okay?

⭐ Healthy, realistic snack ideas that won’t take you hours

⭐ How much of a problem is sugar really — and how to keep balance

⭐ Simple swaps and mindset shifts to take the stress out of mealtimes

We covered so much in this honest and insightful conversation:

• Cindy’s personal journey as a parent and scientist 👩‍🔬

• How neuroscience completely shifted her approach to parenting 🧠

• Emotional invalidation — what it is and how it gets passed down through generations 💔

• The surprising things science has taught Cindy about raising emotionally healthy kids

• And a powerful reminder: You are a good enough parent 💛

✨ What’s inside:

⭐ How Chris’s own journey led him to mindfulness and psychology

⭐ The difference between self-compassion and self-esteem

⭐ Simple, powerful practices parents can use with their kids

⭐ What our self-talk teaches our children about worth

⭐ How mindful parents respond differently to meltdowns

⭐ What to do if you struggle with burnout or inner criticism

⭐ The one message Chris wants every parent to hear

#mindfulparenting #selfcompassion #emotionalresilience #gentleparenting #parentingpodcast

⭐️ Why weaning can feel so overwhelming

⭐️ Worrying if your baby’s eating “enough” or the “right” things

⭐️ Baby-led weaning vs. spoon-feeding

⭐️ Foods Annabel recommends for starting out

⭐️ Annabel’s own personal stories as a mum and expert

👇 Comment Annabel and I’ll DM you the full episode!

Also available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify 🎙️

#ParentUnpluggedPodcast #AnnabelKarmel #WeaningJourney #FeedingBaby #MumLifeUK

✨ What we cover:

🌟 What to say (and what really matters) in emotionally charged moments

🌟 Simple, supportive scripts to use in tricky situations

🌟 What conscious discipline can look like — and why it’s not about being “soft”

🌟 How to regulate your own emotions while parenting

🌟 Why reparenting yourself changes everything

#ParentingPodcast #ConsciousParenting #ParentingSupport #EmotionalRegulationForParents #RaisingResilientKids

Kate is a neurodivergent family coach and education consultant, supporting neurodivergent children and their families. Kate offers personalised support for parents to better understand and support their children, to feel more confident and empowered as a parent and to help to see life through the lens of a neurodivergent brain.

https://www.nurturedneurokids.com

Starting a new school year can be especially challenging for neurodivergent kids – and their parents. In this episode, Kate and I dive into:

🎒 How to support your neurodivergent child as they settle in

📝 What a helpful handover should look like between home and school

👋 Making drop-offs smoother (for everyone!)

🗣️ How to advocate for your child when you feel you’re not being heard

🏫 Setting realistic expectations of the school

🌱 Why transitions can be tricky for ND kids and how to handle them

This is your go-to guide for making the school year feel calmer, more connected, and more supportive for your neurodivergent child. 💛

#parentingpodcast #neurodivergentparenting #backtoschooltips #schooltransitions #gentleparenting

⭐ Why this stage is so intense for both us and them

⭐ How to handle it when they won’t share

⭐ What to do when they say “NO!” to literally everything

⭐ The pressure to stay endlessly calm — and what to do when we just can’t

⭐ “Am I being too soft or too strict?” — how to tell

⭐ Biting and hitting — what’s actually going on

⭐ Tantrums — why ignoring them doesn’t work, and what does.

#toddlermom #gentleparenting #toddlertantrums #parentinghelp #parentunpluggedpodcast

We talk about:

⭐ The power of positive reinforcement

⭐ How to use descriptive praise (and why it works!)

⭐ Understanding your child’s temperament

⭐ The benefits of emotion coaching

If you want to raise confident, connected kids without shouting or shame, this one’s for you 💛

#ParentUnplugged #PositiveParenting #DescriptivePraise #EmotionCoaching #GentleParenting

✨ What’s inside:

⭐ Separation anxiety

⭐ Why we shouldn’t force children to say sorry (and what to do instead)

⭐ The surprising benefits of mixed-age play

⭐ How to support your child socially, even if they’re shy

⭐ What to do when you get triggered as a parent

#gentleparenting #earlychildhooddevelopment #shamefreediscipline #separationanxiety #consciousparenting

⭐ Early signs your child might be neurodivergent

⭐ What “sensory differences” really are — and why they affect daily life

⭐ The overwhelm parents feel around assessments, waiting lists, and next steps

⭐ What masking is — and why it can be so exhausting for both kids and parents

⭐ Stories from Emma’s work with families — and how support changed everything

#ParentingPodcast #NeurodivergentKids #ADHDParenting #AutismAwareness #SensorySupport

We covered so many important topics that every mum will relate to:

⭐ Laura’s incredible journey through motherhood and self-discovery

⭐ Working mums vs. stay-at-home mums – and the guilt that follows either choice

⭐ The pressure we pile on ourselves as mothers

⭐ The parts of motherhood we don’t always enjoy (and why it’s okay to say it!)

⭐ The overwhelming expectations around Mother’s Day

⭐ Rewriting your own motherhood rule book and living by what feels right for you

✨ What we cover:

🌟 What drew Sarah to conscious parenting in the first place

🌟 Why many parents turn to peaceful discipline after feeling burned out

🌟 Biting, back chat, shouting — how to respond calmly and effectively

🌟 Real strategies to stay calm in the moment (even when it’s chaos)

🌟 The difference between being peaceful and being permissive

🌟 How to build connection and hold boundaries

#ParentingPodcast #PeacefulDiscipline #ConsciousParenting #RespectfulParenting #ParentingWithoutPunishment

⭐ The most common behaviour challenges parents face — and why they happen

⭐ Why building resilience in children is so important (and what it really means)

⭐ How to encourage good behaviour without nagging or shouting

⭐ How to build true confidence — beyond empty praise

⭐ The role of praise: what helps, what doesn’t, and what to say instead of “You’re so clever”

⭐ Practical strategies for handling backchat and rudeness with calm and confidence

💬 Susie and I will be in the DMs

🎧 Full episode on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

#ParentingPodcast #RaisingConfidentKids #BehaviourSupport #PositiveParenting #ResilientKids #GentleParentingTips

Here’s what we cover:

🌟 What segmenting and decoding really mean – and why they matter

🌟 How to make phonics fun and playful for young children

🌟 Practical ways to support phonics learning at home and in the classroom

🌟 How these techniques can support children with dyslexia

🌟 Why play is such a powerful tool for early reading

🌟 Tips and encouragement for parents who feel unsure about phonics

#earlylearningthroughplay #playbasedlearning #eyfsideas #phonicsfun #toddleractivitiesathome

⭐ Why modelling matters more than micromanaging

⭐ How modern pressures like social media and peer influence are shaping our kids

⭐ Why so many kids feel anxious today — and what we can do to support them

⭐ The power of connection over control

⭐ Simple, science-backed ways to help kids thrive in tricky times

#ParentingPodcast #RaisingResilientKids #ModernParenting #HelloCruelWorld #ConnectedParenting

Inside this episode:

★ Why toddler sleep feels so tricky (and what’s totally normal)

★ How to gently shift bedtime battles

★ When most toddlers drop their nap — and what it means for bedtime

★ Fear of the dark + separation anxiety: what helps

★ Reassurance for the parents who feel like they’ve “tried it all”

This week on Parenting Unplugged, I’m joined by ADHD coach Chloe to talk about how we can better understand and support children with ADHD — without shame, pressure, or unrealistic expectations.

We cover:

★ What ADHD really looks like in kids (and what it’s not)

★ Why behaviour isn’t the full story — it’s communication

★ How to build your child’s confidence while still holding boundaries

★ What helps with emotional regulation (for both of you)

★ The power of connection over correction

Course can be found at the Mind Station Website

https://mindstationcoaching.com/

#ADHDParenting #ADHDSupportForKids #NeurodivergentKids #ConnectionOverCorrection #ParentingUnplugged

This week on Parent Unplugged, I’m joined by therapist and author Saskia Joss to talk honestly about what happens when anxiety shows up in family life — and what actually helps.

✨ What are the common signs of anxiety in a child?

✨ Relatable stories from Saskia’s life and work

✨ How a parent’s own anxiety can quietly show up

✨ Helpful strategies to use in the moment

✨ How to feel more confident, even when things are hard

#parentingpodcast #childanxiety #gentleparenting #anxiousparent #mentalhealthsupport

Letting go of old ideas about fatherhood can feel emotional — but it’s where true connection begins.

This week on Parenting Unplugged, I talk with Greg Denning — dad of 7 and founder of the Family Man Tribe — about leading with presence, not pressure.

We explore:

⭐ What fatherhood really means — and how to live it, not just label it

⭐ How to stay grounded when you’re tired, triggered, or overwhelmed

⭐ What to do instead of yelling when emotions run high

⭐ The power of rupture and repair — and why it matters more than perfection

⭐ What sons really need from their dads (hint: it’s not toughness)

#ParentingPodcast #FatherhoodMatters #GentleParenting #EmotionalLeadership #ModernFatherhood

This week on Parenting Unplugged, I’m joined by parenting coach Caroline Rowett to talk about one of the hardest parts of parenting: regulating ourselves when our kids are pushing every button.

We also dive into:

★ What’s really going on in a tantrum — and how to respond

★ Why your child might not be listening (and what actually helps)

★ How to praise in a way that builds true confidence

★ Simple ways to nurture your child’s self-esteem

★ How to guide mistakes with a growth mindset

★ The work we need to do as parents to show up with more calm and connection

#ParentingSupport #GentleDiscipline #TriggeredParent #ConnectionOverCorrection #ParentingUnplugged

We talked about the messy middle of motherhood — the mental load, the guilt, the pressure to be calm, and why making mistakes might be the most human (and helpful) thing we do.

In this episode we cover:

⭐️ How to actually be kind to yourself when things go sideways

⭐️ The myth of the “perfect parent” — and how to let it go

⭐️ What Anna does when she’s about to snap

⭐️ Why you don’t need to be calm to be a good mum

⭐️ The quiet cost of trying to hold it all together

⭐️ What rest really looks like in a busy family life

If you’ve ever felt like you’re quietly failing behind the scenes… this one’s for you.

#ParentingUnplugged

#parentingpodcast

#EmotionalResilience

#YoureNotAlone

Early pregnancy can feel weird… and lonely.

Let’s talk about it.

This week, I’m joined by two incredible midwives Sam and Sorcha for a real, no-fluff convo on what’s normal, what’s not, and how to actually feel supported.

We cover:

★ Why early pregnancy can feel disconnected (even if you’re excited)

★ What your midwife is really there for

★ How to write a birth plan that actually helps you

★ The emotional stuff no one warns you about

★ Feeling less alone in the mess + magic of it all

#PregnancySupport #MidwifeWisdom #EarlyPregnancyFeels #parentingpodcast #positiveparenting

In this episode, I’m chatting with family empowerment coach and toddler expert Celia Kibler — and trust me, it’s the calm, clear parenting pep talk we all need.

We cover:

★ What’s actually going on in your toddler’s brain during a meltdown

★ Why “no” is their favourite word — and how to respond without snapping

★ The secret to setting boundaries without power struggles

★ What to do when they lie, hit, or throw things

★ How to gently break habits like pacifiers and bottles

★ Being the calm, confident leader your toddler needs (even on 3 hours of sleep)

#toddlertantrums #positiveparentingtips #raisingtoddlers #boundarieswithkids #parentingwithoutyelling

In this powerful chat, I sat down with renowned psychotherapist and author Dr. Joanna Fortune to explore how busy parents can create meaningful connection — no guilt, no perfection, just presence (and a little bit of play).

Here’s what we covered:

• How 15 minutes of intentional connection can shift the whole day

• The real reason play matters more than performance

• How to handle sibling rivalry in a way that builds trust, not tension

• The biggest myths about gentle parenting (and what it actually means)

• Super simple ideas to weave connection into your everyday routine

Whether you’re running on empty or just want more ease in your parenting — this one’s for

#15MinuteParenting #GentleParentingMyths #SiblingRivalryHelp #ParentingUnplugged #PowerOfPlay

We talk about identity shifts, missing your old life, and the quiet pressure to ‘enjoy every moment.’ Why do we still expect new mums to bounce back so fast? What’s with the guilt around so-called bad habits? And should you set boundaries with visitors?

#fourthtrimester #newmumlife #parentingpodcast #matrescence #postpartumtruths

Struggling with short naps, early wake-ups, or endless night feeds? This episode is your go-to guide for better baby sleep — and calmer days (and nights) for you.

We dive into:

• ​ Nap extensions that actually work
• ​ Handling frequent night wakings
• ​ Signs of overtiredness (and how to prevent it)
• ​ Gentle routines to support sleep
• ​ What to do about early rising

If you’re craving longer naps and smoother nights — this one’s for you.

#babysleephelp #gentlesleeptraining #overtiredbaby #mumlifehacks #babyroutine

Perfect for parents navigating toddler eating habits, sensory issues, or just tired of cooking meals that get rejected!

#fussyeating #pickyeaters #feedingkids #toddlermum #parentingpodcast

We dive into:

• Maternal burnout vs postnatal depression

• The impact of good girl conditioning on modern motherhood

• The importance of boundaries for mums

• Realistic self-care (beyond bubble baths!)

• How society glamorises self-sacrifice in parenting

• The roots and reality of mum guilt

This episode is packed with insight, validation, and practical steps to help you move from surviving to thriving.

#MaternalBurnout #MumGuilt #PostnatalMentalHealth #ModernMotherhood #ParentingPodcast #GentleParenting

Join me and reflux specialist Áine Homer as we break down:

✅ What reflux really is

✅ Key symptoms to watch for

✅ How parents can help

✅ Allergies, intolerances & more!

#BabyReflux #RefluxRelief #NewbornTips #InfantReflux #ColicHelp #FussyBaby #ParentingSupport #MumLife

In this episode, we dive into:

✨ Sibling rivalry

✨ Changing behaviour

✨ Getting kids to listen

✨ Managing parental triggers

…and so much more!

#ConsciousParenting #GentleParenting #PeacefulParenting #RespectfulParenting #ParentingTips #PositiveParenting #MindfulParenting #ParentingPodcast #RaisingKids #ParentingCoach #ToddlerLife #MomLife #DadLife #ParentingHacks #ParentingSupport #PodcastEpisode #NewPodcast #ParentingStruggles

• The often tricky daughter/mother-in-law relationship

• How to navigate outdated advice

• Finding your footing as a new parent

• How family dynamics shift when a baby arrives

• Estranged relationships

• The grandparent ‘swoon’ effect ...and much more!

Join us for this enlightening episode! Dr. Terri offers beautiful explanations of the dynamics within our families, helping us cultivate stronger relationships across the generations.

In this episode, we’re joined by the award-winning author, Dr. Terri Apter. With over three decades of experience in family dynamics, Dr. Apter shares insights from her latest book, focusing on the changes that come with the arrival of a new baby. We discuss topics such as:

• The often tricky daughter/mother-in-law relationship

• How to navigate outdated advice

• Finding your footing as a new parent

• How family dynamics shift when a baby arrives

• Estranged relationships

• The grandparent ‘swoon’ effect ...and much more!

Join us for this enlightening episode! Dr. Terri offers beautiful explanations of the dynamics within our families, helping us cultivate stronger relationships across the generations.

💡 Ready to explore these crucial topics?

Let’s Connect!Website:https://www.parentunplugged.uk

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/parentunplugged