Giovanna Fletcher

Fostering as a Single Mum: Here’s What I Want You to Know

Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Substack: https://substack.com/@happymumhq Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD Chapters 00:00:00 – 00:01:28 Introduction 00:01:28 – 00:05:18 Thinking About Fostering 00:05:18 – 00:07:37 Navigating the Process 00:07:37 – 00:11:12 Types of Fostering 00:11:12 – 00:13:14 Training for Fostering 00:13:14 – 00:20:06 Adapting & Support Networks 00:20:06 – 00:24:00 Adjusting to Change 00:24:00 – 00:29:04 Emotional Investment 00:29:04 – 00:34:28 Getting Involved 00:34:28 – 00:36:36 Personal Growth 00:36:36 – 00:41:30 Letter on Foster Care

Elizabeth Day: 12 Years of Trying to Have a Baby

*TW: Baby loss. Author and podcaster Elizabeth Day joins us to talk about coming to terms with a life without biological children. She opens about about her 12 year journey through infertility, IVF and miscarriage. Now, Elizabeth talks about finding a different kind of purpose through sharing her experience. Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Substack: https://substack.com/@happymumhq Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD Chapters 00:00:00 – 00:06:36 Introduction 00:06:36 – 00:11:26 Upbringing 00:11:26 – 00:23:39 Elizabeth’s IVF Journey 00:23:39 – 00:31:03 Experiencing Pregnancy Loss 00:31:03– 00:33:43 Dating after Divorce 00:33:43 – 00:36:05 Freezing Eggs 00:36:05 – 00:48:53 Medically Managed Miscarriage 00:48:53 – 00:57:45 Navigating Egg Donation 00:57:45 – 01:08:24 Finding Peace 01:08:24 – 01:11:09 Letter on Motherhood

Matt Haig on Fatherhood, Recovery and Parenting Through His Own Diagnosis

We have an international bestselling author in the studio this week! It’s the brilliant Matt Haig. Matt talks to Gi about his decision to homeschool his children and, drawing on his own experiences of depression and recovery, why he believes it’s not about shielding our children from life’s difficulties, but helping them develop the tools to cope when things get hard. He also shares how his son’s autism diagnosis led him to discover he had autism and ADHD himself, and how better understanding himself has helped him understand his son. Matt’s latest novel, The Midnight Train, and a graphic novel adaptation of his multi-million-copy bestseller The Midnight Library are out now! Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Substack: https://substack.com/@happymumhq Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD Chapters 00:00:00 – 00:02:28 Introduction 00:02:28 – 00:06:42 Mental Health Advocacy 00:06:42 – 00:10:10 Adapting Literary Tradition 00:10:10 – 00:17:49 Navigating Homeschooling 00:17:49 – 00:21:12 Growing up Undiagnosed 00:21:12 – 00:31:55 Breaking Down & Recovery 00:31:55 – 00:35:39 Handling Criticism & Trolls 00:35:39 – 00:42:07 Becoming a Father 00:42:07 – 00:50:08 Diagnosing Neurodivergence 00:50:08 – 01:03:55 Parenting Through Diagnosis 01:03:55 – 01:07:36 Letter on Fatherhood

Hannah Cooper-Dommett: ‘I Wish That Was How It Was, But It’s Just Different’

This week Giovanna is joined by model and presenter Hannah Cooper-Dommett. Hannah opens up about how her relationship with husband Joel has changed since they became parents to their two boys, and how they've navigated keeping their marriage strong amid the chaos of family life. She also shares what it was like to step into the role of carer when her mum was diagnosed with a brain tumour, and how she came to accept that her mum couldn’t be the support for her children that she had always imagined. Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Substack: https://substack.com/@happymumhq Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD Chapters 00:00:00 – 00:09:25 Introduction 00:09:25 – 00:15:47 Upbringing 00:15:47 – 00:18:49 Finding the Right Partner 00:18:49 – 00:26:20 Care & Asking for Help 00:26:20 – 00:33:51 Pregnancy & Birth 00:33:51 – 00:40:23 Reclaiming Body Image 00:40:23 – 00:45:13 Post-Natal Mental Health 00:45:13 – 00:52:53 Adapting to Two 00:52:53 – 00:56:56 Kids on Tour 00:56:56 – 00:59:17 Charity Shop Hack 00:59:17 – 01:09:40 Letter on Motherhood

“I Just Wanted Someone to See Me”: Growing Up as a Sibling Carer

Giovanna catches up with her friend Becky Cheetham this week to talk about Becky's experience as a sibling carer. Becky’s sister, Hannah, has cerebral palsy, and Becky opens up to Gi about the challenges and joys of growing up as part of a family shaped by disability. She reflects on feeling like ‘the glass child’ the sibling whose needs can sometimes take a back seat, and the impact this has had on her life. Plus, Becky shares her thoughts on the future, navigating her role as a sibling carer and what it means for her relationship with Hannah as they get older. Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Substack: https://substack.com/@happymumhq Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD Chapters 00:00:00 – 00:03:30 Introduction 00:03:30 – 00:14:45 Childhood Sibling Care 00:14:45 – 00:18:54 Confronting Stigma 00:18:54 – 00:27:44 Support Network 00:27:44 – 00:32:45 Letting Go Of Anger 00:32:45 – 00:39:40 Raising Awareness 00:39:40 – 00:43:56 Looking to the Future 00:43:56 – 00:51:44 Letter on Sibling Care

Everyone is going through something.

Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Substack: https://substack.com/@happymumhq Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD

Annabel Scholey: On Divorce, Motherhood and the Reality of Shared Parenting

This week Giovanna sits down with the incredibly talented Annabel Scholey! You’ll know Annabel from Rivals and, of course (the Happy Mum team’s personal favourite) The Split. But behind the scenes, Annabel was navigating the end of her own marriage, alongside balancing her acting career and raising her daughter. Annabel opens up to Gi about the moment she knew her marriage was over, and talks about the grief that came with accepting she doesn’t have the ‘traditional’ family unit she once planned. You can catch Annabel in Winter on ITV now, and Rivals Part 2 arrives on 11 November. Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Substack: https://substack.com/@happymumhq Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD Chapters 00:00:00 – 00:04:05 Introduction 00:04:05 – 00:06:36 The Split 00:06:36 – 00:08:31 Navigating Divorce 00:08:31 – 00:17:25 Showbiz & Perimenopause 00:17:25 – 00:21:15 Upbringing & Moving South 00:21:15 – 00:27:02 Birth & Body Image 00:27:02 – 00:35:41 Working During Pregnancy 00:35:41 – 00:47:35 Guilt & Going Back to Work 00:47:35 – 00:52:16 Grieving Expectations 00:52:16 – 00:56:36 Falling Back In Love 00:56:36 – 00:58:39 Rivals 00:58:39 – 01:02:57 Letter on Motherhood

Rosie Nixon on Having It All, Hitting Burnout and Walking Away From Hello!

What happens when you’ve spent so long holding everything together that you simply can’t anymore? This week, Giovanna sits down with former Editor-in-Chief of HELLO! Magazine Rosie Nixon to talk about the breakdown that became the catalyst for transforming her life. Rosie opens up about motherhood, the pressure to keep going and the guilt that can come with admitting you’re struggling. Rosie’s book, The PRO Method: Pause, Reflect & Organise, is available now! Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Substack: https://substack.com/@happymumhq Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD Chapters 00:00:00 – 00:05:08 Introduction 00:05:08 – 00:06:00 Upbringing 00:06:00 – 00:12:04 Conceiving & Complications 00:12:04 – 00:18:51 Going Back to Work 00:18:51 – 00:25:03 Birth 00:25:03 – 00:32:28 Juggling Work & Motherhood 00:32:28 – 00:33:46 Kindness at Hello 00:33:46 – 00:44:35 Suffering From Burnout 00:44:35 – 00:52:45 Pause, Reflect, Organise 00:52:45 – 00:57:03 Letter on Motherhood

"He Wanted to Drive Her Ashes on His Tractor” Maren on Parenting Through Grief

Trigger warning: this episode includes discussions around bereavement and cancer. If you feel this may be a difficult listen, please choose another episode x Giovanna is joined this week by her good friend and CoppaFeel! co-founder Maren Sheldon. Maren opens up about navigating first-time motherhood alongside her twin sister Kris's incurable breast cancer diagnosis and shares the honest, sometimes heartbreaking, and often unexpectedly funny realities of parenting through grief. The new edition of Kris Hallenga's memoir Glittering a Turd, featuring new material from Maren and a foreword by Dawn French, is out 24th September.  Head to https://coppafeel.org/ for more helpful information and resources xx Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Substack: https://substack.com/@happymumhq Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD Chapters 00:00:00 – 00:10:09 Introduction 00:10:09 – 00:17:00 Upbringing 00:17:00 – 00:22:22 Living With Cancer 00:22:22 – 00:35:24 Pregnancy & Birth 00:35:24 – 00:37:18 Balancing Care & Motherhood 00:37:18 – 00:51:48 End of Life Care 00:51:48 – 01:02:55 Navigating Grief 01:02:55 – 01:06:05 Bereavement & Rebuilding 01:06:05 – 01:09:56 Letter on Motherhood

Maddy Lucy Dann: I’m an A&E Doctor, But Pregnancy Is Absolutely Nuts

This week, the hilarious Maddy Lucy Dann joins us for a chat about becoming a mum for the first time. Maddy tells Gi what it’s really like balancing life as an A&E doctor with pregnancy, including navigating night shifts while expecting, and how becoming a mum has changed the way she sees her work. She also opens up about sharing her aspects of her life online, including the criticism she faced over a breastfeeding video, and the reaction to her viral discussion of Bonnie Blue. Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Substack: https://substack.com/@happymumhq Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD Chapters 00:00:00 – 00:03:44 Introduction 00:03:44 – 00:09:52 Upbringing & Readjusting 00:09:52 – 00:27:18 Pregnancy & Working at A&E 00:27:18 – 00:44:44 Navigating Birth 00:44:44 – 00:53:22 Breastfeeding & Backlash 00:53:22 – 00:55:21 Postpartum Life 00:55:45 – 01:06:21 Letter on Motherhood

Finding Hope When Both Your Children Have Cancer

This week on Happy Mum, we are joined by strong, inspiring and incredible mother of two Sophie Derry. When Sophie's daughter Odette started vomiting on car journeys and having headaches, doctors initially put it down to travel sickness. An eye test changed everything, revealing a brain tumour that would lead to emergency surgery and fifteen further operations over seven months. Before the family could catch their breath, Sophie's younger daughter Eliza was diagnosed with leukaemia. Sophie opens up to Gi about what it's like to face childhood cancer not once but twice -- the fear, the exhaustion, and the moments of hope. If you’d like to show your support for some of the charities that have been there for Sophie, you can find links to them below: PASIC  https://www.pasic.org.uk When You Wish Upon a Star  https://www.whenyouwishuponastar.org.uk Young Lives vs Cancer  https://www.younglivesvscancer.org.uk Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Substack: https://substack.com/@happymumhq Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD Chapters 00:00:00 - 00:02:59 Introduction 00:02:59 - 00:10:11 Pregnancy & Birth 00:10:11 - 00:24:02 Odette’s Diagnosis & Treatment 00:24:02 - 00:32:21 Eliza’s Diagnosis & Treatment 00:32:21 - 00:43:37 Living With Cancer 00:43:37 - 00:52:52 Sophie’s Experience 00:52:52 - 00:58:59 Letter on Motherhood

Megan McKenna: How Being Bullied at School Shaped the Mum She Is Today

This week, our favourite reality star turned singing and cooking sensation Megan McKenna joins Giovanna in the Happy Mum studio! Megan tells Gi all about becoming a mum to Landon, including her experience with IVF and what it’s like living between two countries as a new mum. She also reflects on the bullying she experienced at school, and how it shaped her confidence and the way she wants to parent. Plus, stay tuned for a surprise at the end of the episode!

Sam & Alice Vanderpump on Postnatal Depression, Health Anxiety and Mental Health

In this episode, Made in Chelsea's Sam and Alice Vanderpump join Giovanna to talk about the reality of becoming parents. Alice bravely opens up about what life feels like for her right now as she navigates postnatal depression. She talks honestly about anxiety, feeling isolated and how she hasn't felt like herself since becoming a mum. Sam shares what it has been like supporting Alice through her mental health struggles, while also reflecting on his own health journey and how becoming a dad has given him a new perspective on what his own parents went through. Made in Chelsea: Sam Vanderpump’s Story is available to stream on Channel 4 now! Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Substack: https://substack.com/@happymumhq Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD Chapters 00:00:00 – 00:08:20 Introduction 00:08:20 – 00:12:42 Upbringing 00:12:42 – 00:19:10 Health Battles & Reality TV 00:19:10 – 00:38:00 Coping with Postnatal Depression 00:38:00 – 00:47:17 Alice’s Pregnancy 00:47:17 – 01:09:06 C-Section Birth & Recovery 01:09:06 – 01:11:58 Letters on Parenthood

If You're Feeling Like You're Failing This Summer... Listen to This

The summer holidays are in full swing... and if your usual routines have gone completely out the window, you're definitely not alone! Whether you're juggling work and childcare, surviving later bedtimes, entertaining little ones, or simply trying to keep everyone fed, this special episode is here to remind you that you're doing a better job than you think. ☀️☀️☀️ Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Substack: https://substack.com/@happymumhq Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD Chapters 00:00:00 - 00:01:09 Introduction 00:01:09 - 00:10:03 Keira Knightley on Sleep Deprivation 00:10:03 - 00:19:28 Lucy Watson on Postnatal Identity 00:19:28 - 00:25:39 Carry Hope Fletcher & Joel Montague on Balancing Parenthood 00:25:39 - 00:36:16 Lacey Turner on Letting Go of Expectations 00:36:16 - 00:44:52 300th Episode with Emma Willis on Accepting Help

How Can I Help My Child Feel Confident Going Back to School?

We might only be halfway through the summer holidays, but for many families the countdown to a new school year has already begun. And September can bring a whole mix of emotions for children and parents alike. So, as part of Matalan’s Back to School Special, Giovanna sits down with NSPCC expert Gail Sayles to talk about something that can make all the difference when those school gates open again: confidence. Drawing on years of supporting children through everything from school anxiety and bullying, to exams and friendship worries, Gail shares thoughtful, practical advice on how we can help our children navigate big feelings, build self-belief and feel empowered as they head back to school. And the confidence doesn’t stop here! The Matalan Confidence Caravan is hitting the road this August, giving you the opportunity to add a personalised message to your little one’s pre-purchased Matalan uniform. The Confidence Caravan will be visiting four stores: Bilston, Preston, Luton and Swindon - check @shopmatalan or in-store for dates. For more support, please visit the links below: Childline counsellors are available to take calls 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from children and young people under 19 https://www.nspcc.org.uk/about-us/our-services/childline/ NSPCC Helpline is available between 10am and 4pm, Monday - Friday if you have concerns about a child’s safety or wellbeing https://www.nspcc.org.uk/about-us/our-services/nspcc-helpline/ Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Substack: https://substack.com/@happymumhq Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD Chapters 00:00:00 - 00:01:34 Introduction 00:01:34 - 00:11:23 The NSPCC & The Talk Pants Campaign 00:11:23 - 00:22:46 Getting Supprt For Children & Parents 00:22:46 - 00:24:22 Matalan’s Confidence Caravan 00:24:22 - 00:38:38 Building Confidence & Validating Young Voices

Zoe Birkett on Grieving While Performing Eight Shows a Week

Trigger warning: This episode contains discussion of miscarriage and pregnancy loss. If you think you may find this difficult to listen to, please choose another episode x You might know her from Pop Idol, starring in the West End as Tina Turner, or her recent stint joining Take That on tour, but this week Zoe Birkett is reflecting on her role as a mum. Zoe shares with Gi how she never imagined motherhood for herself, how meeting her husband changed everything, and why returning to a career she loves has made her a better mum. She also opens up about her experience of pregnancy loss while performing as a leading lady in the West End, opening up about navigating grief behind the scenes, and the support that helped her through. Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Substack: https://substack.com/@happymumhq Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD Chapters 00:00:00 - 00:03:37 Introduction  00:03:37 - 00:08:51 Upbringing 00:08:51 - 00:18:25 Pregnancy & Natural Section Delivery  00:18:25 - 00:32:10 Balancing Motherhood  00:32:10 - 00:42:31 Suffering a Miscarriage  00:42:31 - 00:58:06 Grief, Rebuilding & Awareness  00:58:06 - 01:01:26 Letter on Motherhood

Ruthie Henshall on Prince Edward, Raising Daughters, & Life Beyond the Stage

Trigger warning: this episode contains discussions of suicide, mental illness and childhood trauma that some listeners may find upsetting. Ruthie Henshall has spent decades captivating audiences on stage, but in this episode she joins Giovanna to talk about the role that has shaped her most: being a mum! Ruthie reflects on choosing motherhood at the height of her career, raising two daughters as a single parent, and how becoming a mum changed her ambitions forever. She also opens up about her own childhood, the lasting impact it had on her parenting, and the unexpected healing she found with her mother later in life. Ruthie's new memoir, The Showgirl and the Prince, is out now! Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Substack: https://substack.com/@happymumhq Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD Chapters 00:00:00 - 00:02:59 Introduction 00:02:59 - 00:11:58 The Showgirl & The Prince 00:11:58 - 00:20:46 Upbringing, Loss & Grief 00:20:46 - 00:25:28 Navigating Single Parenting 00:25:28 - 00:32:41 Balancing Motherhood, Showbiz & Ambition 00:32:41 - 00:40:50 Reclaiming Body Image With Age 00:40:51 - 00:59:31 Letter on Motherhood

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.uk Links from our midwives: All4Maternity is the go to place for education and support if you’re a midwife or student midwife. And All4Birth is the home for expectant and new parents - free, non-biased, evidence-based information! Curated by a midwife ❤️ BabySZN™ is a platform built to help women train specifically for fertility, pregnancy from a birthdual-qualified midwife and performance trainer Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Substack: https://substack.com/@happymumhq Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD

Celebrating Elsie Dot Stancombe and Changing Southport's Story

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 of three young girls killed in the Southport attack. Jen joins Gi to share who Elsie truly was beyond the headlines: a joyful, caring, and inspirational big sister, who brought light to everyone she met. Jen speaks about navigating the unimaginable grief alongside her husband David and their younger daughter, while sharing how love for Elsie continues to shape their family every day. She also reflects on the strength they've found in keeping Elsie's memory alive and the purpose they've discovered through the foundation created in her name. We are incredibly grateful to Jen for trusting us with Elsie's story. To find out more about the incredible work being carried out in Elsie's memory, or to support the foundation, please visit Elsie's Story: https://elsiesstory.org/ Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Substack: https://substack.com/@happymumhq Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD Chapters 00:00:00 - 00:01:31 Introduction 00:01:31 - 00:05:03 Upbringing 00:05:03 - 00:11:15 Pregnancy & Birth 00:11:15 - 00:26:46 Elsie’s Life in Southport 00:26:46 - 00:38:35 Coming to Terms with Tragedy 00:38:35 - 00:47:26 Navigating Trauma, Grief & Parenting 00:47:26 - 00:57:25 Pregnancy Loss 00:57:25 - 01:07:19 Celebrating Elsie & Rebuilding Southport 01:07:19 - 01:12:44 Letter on Motherhood

Can Fear Change the Way You Give Birth? | Life of a Midwife Ep. 11

Fear and hope often exist side by side throughout pregnancy and birth. This week two midwives highlight the importance of clear, compassionate communicatio -- from easing birth anxieties to supporting families through pregnancy loss. 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.uk Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Substack: https://substack.com/@happymumhq Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD

The Mum Behind The Man: WWE’s Becky Lynch on Relinquishing Her Title and Becoming a Mother

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, and learning to see her body in a whole new light. Watch Becky on WWE Raw live every Monday night exclusively on Netflix! Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Substack: https://substack.com/@happymumhq Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD Chapters 00:00:00 – 00:05:48 Introduction 00:05:48 – 00:12:30 Upbringing 00:12:30 – 00:23:17 Starting a Family 00:23:17 – 00:36:59 Navigating Pregnancy 00:36:59 – 00:39:50 Birth & Body Image 00:39:50 – 00:45:17 Post-Weaning Depression 00:45:17 – 00:49:27 Parenting Through Grief 00:49:27 – 00:53:44 Like Mother, Like Daughter 00:53:44 – 01:01:30 Letter on Motherhood

Staying Calm When Birth Takes a Dangerous Turn | Life of a Midwife Ep. 10

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 you — just drop us an email midwives@pixiu.co.uk Links from our midwives: Little Light Support offers independent, trauma-informed birth debriefs for women and families — particularly those who’ve had complex, confusing or difficult experiences East Anglian Midwives offer personalised pregnancy care, homebirth and hospital birth support, and postnatal care in Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex, and Cambridge Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Substack: https://substack.com/@happymumhq Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD

"I Thought I Was Going to Die”: The Birth Trauma That Changed Everything For Theo Clarke

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 traumatic birth experience and the lack of adequate postnatal support she received afterwards, experiences that led her to launch the first UK parliamentary debate on birth trauma. Since then, she has continued campaigning alongside Louise Thompson for the introduction of an independent maternity commissioner. UPDATE: Since recording this episode, the government has announced the appointment of the UK’s first-ever Maternity and Neonatal Commissioner, as part of efforts to improve maternity and neonatal care across England. Do you follow our new Substack yet? Join the private village behind the podcast! xx https://substack.com/@happymumhq Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD Chapters 00:00:00 – 00:04:31 Introduction 00:04:31 – 00:08:06 Politics & Maternity 00:08:06 – 00:17:58 Pregnancy & Birth Plans 00:17:58 – 00:34:38 Theo’s Birth Trauma 00:34:38 – 00:51:45 Postnatal & Political Upheaval 00:51:45 – 01:01:36 Campaigning for Maternity Care 01:01:36 – 01:03:56 Letter on Motherhood

‘The GP didn’t see me - I will never make a mother feel like that EVER’.

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I didn't need a kitten, I was just pregnant!

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The Baby Born in a Bus Stop (and Other Home Birth Stories) | Life of a Midwife Ep. 9

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’d love to hear from you — just drop us an email midwives@pixiu.co.uk Links from our midwives: All4Maternity is the go-to place for education and support if you’re a midwife or student midwife. And All4Birth is the home for expectant and new parents - free, non-biased, evidence-based information! Curated by a midwife ❤️ Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Substack: https://substack.com/@happymumhq Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD

Dr Punam Krishan on birth trauma, healing and why mums need care too

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"I wasn't getting taken seriously because I was an anxious mum" Dr Punam Krishan on maternal health

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Dr Punam Krishan on what happens to mums after birth

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 for herself. Please take this conversation as a reminder to check your chests! Dr Punam's latest book, The Mother Load Every Mother’s Guide to Juggling Health, Life & Happiness, is out now! Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Substack: https://substack.com/@happymumhq Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD Chapters 00:00:00 – 00:03:28 Introduction 00:03:28 – 00:14:16 Maternal Health Care Gap 00:14:16 – 00:24:54 New Seasons of Motherhood 00:24:54 – 00:33:23 Experiencing Traumatic Birth 00:33:23 – 00:45:24 Facing Postpartum Depression 00:45:24 – 00:51:57 Pregnancy After Birth Trauma 00:51:57- 00:59:59 Processing & Healing Trauma 00:59:59 – 01:21:28 Battling Breast Cancer 01:21:28 – 01:26:28 Letter on Motherhood

Being part of the #pregnancy experience as #surrogates ❤️

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‘This lady came up to us and just went…HOW?!’

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What is a parental order? Fighting for your rights to be legal parents in the #surrogacyprocess

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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. Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Substack: https://substack.com/@happymumhq Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD

Taking to fatherhood naturally as two dads #surrogacyprocess #fatherhood

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Adam Frisby and Jamie Corbett join us this week to talk about their #surrogacyprocess.

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Why Are We Not Parents at Birth? Adam and Jamie's Surrogacy Fight

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. Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Substack: https://substack.com/@happymumhq Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD

Lauren Cowell talks about how putting her son Adam first during her divorce

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Mum guilt is a REAL thing. We must give ourselves some more grace and allow ourselves to be human ❤️

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I just kept my head down

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Everybody Grieves Differently | Life of a Midwife Ep. 7

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 clear answers. Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Substack: https://substack.com/@happymumhq Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD

Sometimes when we are in fight or flight, all we can do is protect our children. ❤️

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Lauren Cowell Beyond the Headlines ❤️

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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, and since recording this episode, Keir Starmer has announced plans for under-16s to be banned from social media by spring 2027

Not everyone loves being pregnant and that is OKAY! ❤️ #podcast #pregnancy

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Birth, oxytocin and the moment everything changed ✨ #podcast #birth

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A positive home birth story shouldn’t feel controversial but for many people it still does. #podcast

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Laura Marling on age gaps and the effects it can have on relationships #podcast #siblings

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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 midwives@pixiu.co.uk Listen to the podcast here: https://podfollow.com/happymumhappybaby JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: Substack: https://substack.com/@happymumhq Instagram: https://instagram.com/happymumhq Facebook:https://facebook.com/happymumhq TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happymumhq Subscribe: https://goo.gl/ZTyXhD

Musician Laura Marling joins Gi on Happy Mum! ❤️ #podcast #shorts

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