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If you could be a part-time foster carer and make a real difference in a young person’s life, would you do it? With flexible care options like fostering for just a week or the occasional weekend, and an urgent need for carers in Sydney, this episode busts all the common misconceptions that you might have about taking on this role.

Tim and Kylie from Uniting’s Permanency Support Program join Rachel and Sarah to bust some of the most common myths.

From who can foster, to the realities of what it takes, this conversation reveals the truth behind the myths that hold people back from making a difference. Get ready for an enlightening chat that’ll leave you feeling informed, inspired, and ready to challenge what you thought you knew about foster care!

Becoming a Uniting foster carer may be easier than you think

Being there for a vulnerable child or young person is both a privilege and a significant learning experience. While it’s not for everyone, there are many ways to become a foster carer, and it’s often less complicated than you may imagine. With Uniting’s support, you can start by offering occasional overnight or weekend care or open your home and your heart to a child who needs longer-term care.

Respite care gives full-time foster carers a break

Some people begin their foster care journey by offering regular periods of care for a child who already has a permanent placement with a foster family. Called respite care, it gives people a break from full-time caring while expanding children’s support networks. It can be a one-off arrangement, or maybe for one weekend a month.

Emergency care is another option to consider

Another essential way of supporting a child is to provide emergency care at short notice, giving someone who may be leaving a critical situation a safe place to stay until they can return home or until a more permanent place is found. This type of short-term care may also be needed when a child cannot move to another carer immediately. It may just be for an overnight stay or for a few months while alternative arrangements are made.

Uniting supports your foster care journey, every step of the way

With decades of experience supporting foster families, you’re in excellent hands for every step of your fostering journey – from enquiry to application and beyond. You’ll receive a non-taxable allowance for each child in your care, access 24/7 phone support, and connect with our community of carers for training and wraparound assistance. We value diversity of age, faith, gender and experience and warmly welcome all enquiries.

The right time is now

If you’ve ever considered helping a child or young person in need – full-time, part-time or sometime - now is the time to take action. Flexible care options that fit with your life and your family can also offer a gateway to discovering if this is something you’d like to do on a more regular or permanent basis.

Find out how you can foster your way with Uniting.

• Phone: 1800 864 846
• Email: ask@uniting.org
• Website: uniting.org/fostercare

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Welcome to today’s episode, where we’ll dive deep into the world of child mental health— a more pressing issue than ever.

Did you know that 1 in 7 children aged 4 to 17 meet the clinical criteria for a mental illness over 12 months? Yet, despite these staggering numbers, only half of these children will see a clinician. Access to professional help is limited, and waiting lists can be painfully long.

To help guide us through this complex and often overwhelming issue, we are joined by Dr Billy Garvey, a developmental paediatrician, senior specialist at one of Melbourne's largest paediatric hospitals, and host of the Pop Culture Parenting podcast. With his new book Ten Things I Wish You Knew About Your Child’s Mental Health, Dr Billy is on a mission to arm parents with the knowledge and tools they need to support their children, whether they’re grappling with anxiety, low self-esteem or behavioural challenges.

Dr. Billy believes there is no such thing as a "bad child." He emphasises the importance of understanding the critical foundations of good mental health—from attachment and social skills to self-esteem and anxiety management.

Join us as we explore the strategies that can help foster hope and resilience in our children’s lives.

‘Ten Things I Wish You Knew About Your Child’s Mental Health’ is Dr Billy Garvey’s first book, and it’s out now.

About Dr Billy Garvey

Dr Billy Garvey is a developmental paediatrician with over 20 years of experience working with children. He is a senior specialist at one of the largest tertiary paediatric hospitals in the world, where he sees families, trains clinicians and other professionals working with children and conducts research in child development and mental health. He is also the founder of Guiding Growing Minds, a social enterprise that aims to allow all children to reach their potential and live rich and meaningful lives. The Pop Culture Parenting podcast is a part of this vision.

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Today, we’re tackling the tricky topic of returning to work after having kids. It’s one that most mums need to consider, and it’s never an easy decision. Whilst some mums are happy to return to work or have to return for financial reasons, others simply want to spend as much time as they can with their children while they’re little.

There’s no right or wrong, and everyone makes the best decision for their family.

But… what if there was another option?

Today, we’re talking to Lauren Perrett… a Sydney mum who struggled when returning to work when her first baby was seven months old. She knew she wasn’t the only mum struggling with this and wanted to find another way.

So, she created BubbaDesk! She launched in Erina a few years ago… providing hot desks and meeting rooms for parents and on-site childcare for kids. She now has three more centres—in St Leonards Caringbah and Wollongong… with more locations opening soon!

In this episode, Lauren shares

• Her personal struggles with returning to work
• How she turned a ‘lightbulb moment’ into a business.
• Her advice to new mums about their rights
• How they can negotiate flexible return-to-work conditions
• How to build a community of mums for your support
• Tips on how to balance work and motherhood

BubbaDesk: The story so far

BubbaDesk was founded by Lauren and Tom Perrett. Lauren returned to work after just six months of maternity leave and was riddled with post-natal anxiety, plus she found it challenging to find reliable (and affordable!) care for their son, Charles. They juggled working from home with a baby for a few months, but felt guilty that their child wasn’t getting the present, playful parents they wanted to be.

They dreamed of a space where they could work, but also have their baby nearby. They knew that many of their friends faced the same struggle, so decided to turn that dream into a reality. The idea was to build a space where they could be super productive, and have their child close by being looked after by trusted professionals seemed like a no-brainer. And that’s where the idea for BubbaDesk started. Find out more about BubbaDesk.

Essential Details: BubbaDesk

• Address: 92 Chandos Street, St Leonards
• Phone: 0418 999 277
• Opening hours: Mon-Fri: 8.30am-4.30pm
• Website: bubbadesk.com/st-leonards
• Follow: Instagram | Facebook

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In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Nick Fuller, a leading expert in the field of childhood nutrition and author of the new book "Healthy Parents, Healthy Kids".

We dive deep into the essentials of creating a healthy, happy home environment, starting with meal planning and how to involve your kids in choosing what’s on the menu. Dr Fuller shares his insights on why eating together at the kitchen table can have a profound impact on family dynamics and why breakfast truly earns its title as the most important meal of the day.

We also explore the do’s and don’ts of encouraging your children to eat—why bribing or forcing them is never a good idea, and what strategies you can use if your child is a fussy eater.

Dr. Fuller explains why the first five years of a child’s life are crucial for introducing a variety of foods and how to make movement and incidental activity a natural part of your family’s routine.

And, because no discussion about health is complete without addressing sleep, we’ll also cover the importance of a good night’s rest and practical tips to ensure your family is getting the quality sleep they need. Whether you’re a parent or

This episode is packed with actionable advice to help you foster a healthier lifestyle for your family.
About Dr Nick FullerDr Nick Fuller is an internationally recognised health expert and leading obesity researcher with degrees in exercise physiology, nutrition and dietetics, and a doctorate in obesity and weight management.

He is currently responsible for the clinical research program within the Boden Initiative, located within the Charles Perkins Centre at the University of Sydney. He is also the director of clinical trials within the Department of Endocrinology at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital.

Dr Fuller is a familiar face and voice across the Australian media spectrum. He is the resident Weight Loss Expert for Channel’s 9’s TODAY EXTRA breakfast morning show. He writes weekly for The Daily Telegraph, has a regular segment on the Number 1 AM Breakfast Show 2GB, and has regular appearances on Channel 7, 9, 10, ABC and SBS TV.

He is also the author of the bestselling books Interval Weight Loss, Interval Weight Loss for Life, Interval Weight Loss for Women and Healthy Parents, Healthy Kids.

Nick is a father of two children.

For more information visit Interval Weight Loss and Feeding Fussy Kids.

Healthy Parents, Healthy Kids, by Nick Fuller

Providing your kids with the best start in life begins with parents, and leading health expert Dr Nick Fuller has distilled his years of research into six essential steps to setting parents and families on a path towards a positive relationship with several key areas of life: food, exercise, sleep and technology. Understanding your child’s needs at each stage of their development and modelling practical boundaries and positive decisions around these areas will bring your family energy, joy and freedom.

Healthy Parents, Healthy Kids offers a clinically proven blueprint to total family wellness, including more than 100 tasty recipes. You’ll never be at a loss for delicious meal ideas for even the fussiest kids as you reconnect with a variety of fresh, healthy food—and each other—at the kitchen table. The ultimate goal is maintaining a natural optimum body weight throughout life and estab

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In a world where screens are everywhere, it can be challenging to find the right balance for our children.

In today’s episode of The Parenting Couch, we chat with Parenting Educator Gen Muir to help us navigate this digital landscape, offering strategies to create healthy habits and foster a positive relationship with technology.

Whether you're struggling with screen time rules or looking for ways to enhance your child's digital well-being, this episode is packed with actionable advice to make screen time work for your family. Tune in to learn how to set boundaries that are both effective and achievable.

In the episode, we discuss:

• Why screen time isn’t the enemy
• The pressures of modern parenting & how parents shouldn’t be hard on themselves
• How to set healthy boundaries around screen time, what these look like for young kids and how they work with older kids
• How joining your child in some of their screen time can make life better and increase cooperation
• How to use play to bring their screen time interests to life

About Genevieve Muir
Genevieve Muir is a parent educator and founder of Connected Parenting, an obstetric social worker, mother of four boys and LEGO® DUPLO® ambassador.

She is passionate about helping families to connect and thrive amid the many challenges of modern parenting.

Gen has a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from UNSW and a Graduate Diploma in Grief and Bereavement Counselling. She is also a qualified Circle of Security and Tuning into Kids facilitator.

She has assisted over 40,000 parents on the highs and lows of raising little ones. Author of Big People, Little Feelings published in 2024 and co-host of the Beyond the Chaos Podcast.

Gen has appeared Sunrise, The Morning Show, Studio 10, 2Day FM and ABC, and is a spokesperson for LEGO Duplo, H&M Parent Hub and Kiindred.

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As parents, we all know the daily struggle of preparing a nutritious lunchbox... that our kids will actually eat. If you're in need of a little mid-year inspiration, we've called in the expert!

In this episode, we dive into the art of crafting the perfect healthy lunchbox with renowned health and wellbeing specialist, Suzanne Burke. As a busy mum herself, Suzanne understands the challenges - and shares her wealth of knowledge, offering practical tips and creative ideas to make lunchtime enjoyable and healthy.

Discover fresh, easy-to-implement ideas that will transform your lunchbox game! You’ll learn:

• The 5-step plan to packing a nutritious lunchbox
• What to pack in the lunchbox to help kids stay focussed throughout the day
• How packaged food affects children’s health, mood and behaviour.
• Simple swaps for chips and cookies.
• How to incorporate more fruit & vegetables into your child's lunchbox in a way that they will enjoy
• How to read food labels to make informed choices when selecting items for my child's lunchbox?
• Alternatives to sandwiches
• How to pack a waste-free lunchbox.

Whether you’re dealing with picky eaters or simply in need of new inspiration, this episode is packed with valuable insights that will make healthy eating a breeze for your little ones. Don’t miss out on these expert tips that will save your sanity and keep your kids happy and healthy!

About Suzanne Burke

Suzanne is a health and wellbeing specialist with a passion for making healthy living easy and fun!

With an Advanced Certificate in Nutrition Science from the Australian College of Natural Therapies in Sydney, she transitioned from corporate wellness to community education to positively impact health and nutrition locally.

As the founder of BodySaysYay!, Suzanne is dedicated to educating children, empowering parents, and raising awareness about the impact of processed foods on health, behaviour, and the environment.

She is a Certified Instructor with The Root Cause, delivering impactful programs like The Mad Food Science Incursion and Making Friends with Food at schools, along with parent/teacher sessions and community workshops.

Suzanne's down-to-earth approach and passion for food and wellness stem from her role as a mum of two energetic boys.

She advocates for mindful nutrition choices and sustainable practices, making healthy eating accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Choosing real food isn't complicated or expensive! Join Suzanne in her mission to inspire healthier generations and promote a brighter future through mindful nutrition and education.

Want more lunchbox ideas?

• Would you like a tried and tested system to make lunchboxes a breeze? Get lots of new ideas from ‘Nutritious Lunch Box For School’ E-book. Download for FREE.
• Book a Parents Nutrition Session for your school, childcare, workplace or community.
• Follow Suzanne on Facebook or Instagram

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Are you running on empty? Juggling a hundred things at once? And it seems there is no end in sight? Parental Burnout is real! Psychologist Dr Carryn Masluk breaks down what is happening to women, and how you can get help.In this episode, we're diving into a topic that hits close to home for so many of us: parental burnout.

Are you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or like you’re running on empty? You're not alone!

Dr Carryn Masluk is a renowned psychologist and expert in parental well-being, who’s here to help us unpack the stresses and pressures of modern parenting.

We explore why burnout happens, how to spot the warning signs, and most importantly, what you can do to reclaim your sanity and joy.

Get ready for some eye-opening insights and practical tips that could transform the way you approach parenthood.

Tune in and discover how to thrive, not just survive, in your parenting journey!

About Dr Carryn MaslukDr Carryn Masluk is the founding Principal of TalkSpace Psychology in Neutral Bay and has over 15 years of experience as a psychologist.

She opened TalkSpace Psychology in 2017, which has a focus on women's mental health and wellbeing issues.

She enjoys working with adults and she understands the stressors, the juggles (and the joys!) that come with competing family and work commitments. Carryn has a particular interest in:

• working with new and would-be parents (both mums and dads)
• working with women who are raising a family or managing a career and struggling with burnout, brain fog, guilt, anxiety, and loss of a self.

When not working, Carryn is the mother of two school-aged children and a dog.

Follow: Website | Facebook | Instagram

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In this episode of The Parenting Couch, we delve into the important topic of nutrition during perimenopause.

We’re joined by Susie Burrell, one of Australia’s leading dietitians, with extensive experience in women's health and nutrition. Susie shares valuable insights into how dietary choices can profoundly impact the symptoms and overall experience of perimenopause.

You’ll learn…

• What is perimenopause, and what are the common symptoms? How does it differ from menopause?
• Why you are putting on weight even though you are eating & exercising the same
• What food you should be eating more of during perimenopause (and what food you should reduce)
• Why you should speak to a Doctor when you think you are entering perimenopause - and the tests you should be asking for.
• Do you really need herbal supplements?
• What a woman in perimenopause should be eating for breakfast, lunch & dinner.
• How to increase your metabolism to burn more calories every day
• Cardio or Weights? The exercise you should be focussing on during perimenopause
• What type of diet is the best for women in perimenopause
• Is it perimenopause, or could it be a thyroid issue?

Whether you're currently going through perimenopause or might be entering that phase of life soon, this episode is packed with expert advice and practical strategies to help you thrive.

Take charge of your health and well-being with our expert-guided journey through perimenopause and nutrition. 🌿💪

About Susie Burrell
Susie Burrell is one of Australia’s leading dietitians and is known for her extensive knowledge of food, eating behaviour and weight control. Susie holds an Honours degree in both Nutrition & Dietetics & Psychology and a Masters of Coaching Psychology.

In her career Susie has worked as a paediatric dietitian at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead; as a sports dietitian to a number of elite sporting teams including the Parramatta Eels, St George Illawarra Dragons and Sydney University Sport, and for 12 years as the resident dietitian at Channel 7’s top rating breakfast show, Sunrise.

Susie now spends her time as ½ of the top rating podcast, The Nutrition Couch, which has had over 3 million downloads to date, whilst still consulting remotely, specialising in weight control for women in Peri and helping executives fuel for top performance.

Susie is mum to twin boys Gus & Harry who keep her busy retrieving their rugby and soccer balls; she is a secret lover of building Lego houses and always has a series and good book on the go.

The Peri PlanWith detailed information on perimenopause, food guidelines, recipes and the all important mindset shifts you need so that you can focus and get the results you are looking for, The Peri Plan is a must read for any woman feeling the brunt of hormonal changes. Conveniently collated into an 107 page PDF E-Book that is instantaneously delivered to you, via email, upon purchase. Purchase now.

The Peri Plan Recipes
With 50 recipes that have been nutritionally balanced to suit the nutritional needs or perimenopause and beyond, The Peri Plan Recipe gives you the information and inspiration to continue your nutritional journey through Peri with ease. Purchase now.

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Does your child suffer from 'School Can't'?School Can’t… also known as school refusal, school phobia, school avoidance or school anxiety, is a condition where a child or teenager refuses to attend school or experiences extreme distress when faced with the prospect of going to school.

It's more than just about not wanting to go to school. It involves significant emotional distress or anxiety that interferes with the child's ability to attend classes regularly.

To unpack this issue, Rachel and Sarah chat to Dr Catherine Kizana, a medical doctor who has now transitioned to become a qualified parenting coach. We discuss:

• Catherine's personal journey with 'school can't' with her own daughter
• How common is 'school can't'?
• Why might a child be unable to go to school?
• How can parents support their children?
• What support can parents get?
• Her A, B, C approach to any parenting problem

About Dr Catherine KizanaDr Catherine Kizana is a medical doctor, specialising in emergency medicine. Her own journey into parenthood has inspired a recent career change away from the traditional medical model of health.

She is now a qualified parenting coach and founder of ABC Parenting. Catherine is passionate about educating and supporting parents in the most important job they'll ever do.

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Got a teenager at high school? Want to support them to reach their personal goals?
Ki Yan Baldwin is an education strategist and Founder of Kalibrate Education. In this episode, we shares many practical tips about how to help your child achieve great results whilst nurturing their overall wellbeing, ensuring teenagers are poised for the best university and career prospects.

Ki Yan addresses many common parental concerns, offering actionable advice on what to do if:

• Your child's marks don't match their potential
• Your child isn't motivated or doesn't want to study
• Your child gets distracted easily or can't focus
• Your child can’t manage their time properly
• You're worried the impact of technology use on learning and wellbeing
• Your child is anxious or stressed about school
• Your child is struggling or doesn't like school
• Your child can’t leave their devices along during studies
• You want to help your child balance academic success with wellbeing
• You’re unsure about subject selections

From supporting children with learning challenges like anxiety, ADHD, dyslexia, and depression to guiding parents through subject selections and navigating the complexities of school admissions, Ki Yan provides invaluable insights and strategies tailored to empower both students and their families in the pursuit of academic success and holistic growth.

Whether you want to elevate your child's academic performance or navigate the educational landscape effectively, this episode offers practical wisdom and actionable steps to help you on your journey.

About Ki Yan Baldwin

Ki Yan Baldwin is Australia's leading Education Strategy expert and Founder of Kalibrate-Ed.

Ki Yan is all about unlocking potential. Ki Yan works with parents of Year 7-12 students who want to unlock their child's highest potential by optimising their child's academic performance while balancing wellbeing, ensuring that teenagers are set up to access the very best university and career opportunities.

She has helped struggling students shift from failing to 100%, overwhelmed students get a 99.95 ATAR, and students with ADHD or dyslexia add 18 points to predicted ATAR.

Ki Yan frequently advises on the education strategy of Australia's top high schools and major universities, including prominent law and business schools, where she is also a guest lecturer and in-resident mentor. She appears regularly in the media on what's required to cultivate top performers in young people and strategies help parents and educators maximise overall impact beyond just academic marks.

Free Resources for parents from Kalibrate-Ed

• Motivation First-Aid Kit
• Assessment Battleplan
• Exam Checklist
• Upcoming FREE Events

Follow Kalibrate-Ed

• Kalibrate Website
• Facebook
• Facebook group
• Instagram
• LinkedIn

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Is it possible to ‘thrive’ in motherhood? Tara Darlington from Empowering Motherhood believes that it is… and shares her wisdom about how to make that a reality!In this episode, Tara shares:

• How to integrate self-care into your daily life as a busy mother so that it nourishes you and your family.
• The importance of creating a lifestyle and family rhythm that includes your own needs, dreams and desires.
• Steps to shifting your perspective and your life from survive to thrive!
• The importance of slowing down to build up your reserves and rediscover who you are.
• Why you might need to simplify your life.
• Maternal depletion - what it is, and why you probably have it without realising!
• Why new mums need a period of ‘confinement’ after birth
• How to use the lunar cycle as a template for the ultimate self-care practice.

About Tara Darlington

Tara Darlington from Empowering Motherhood is a doula, birth educator and motherhood mentor. She specialises in helping women to heal from birth trauma, grief, loss, pelvic floor problems, burnout and breakdown.

Tara ran a boutique yoga studio specialising in women's health and well-being for 15 years in Sydney’s Hills District. She now lives on Sydney's Upper North Shore, and mentors women through her Thrive Program using a combination of yoga, positive psychology, energy healing, mentoring and community.

Follow Empowering Motherhood: Website | Facebook | Instagram

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About Dr Justin Coulson

Dr Justin Coulson is the co-host and parenting expert on Channel Nine’s “Parental Guidance” and the founder of happyfamilies.com.au. He holds a PhD in Psychology and is one of Australia’s most trusted parenting experts.

Over the past decade he has helped innumerable families with his 9 books about raising children, his hundreds of media appearances (including all of Australia’s major news outlets, and even the Washington Post and the New York Times), and two viral videos that have been viewed a combined 80 million times!

Justin earned his PhD in Psychology from the University of Wollongong. He and his wife Kylie have been married since the late 90s and are the parents of 6 daughters and the grandparents of 1 granddaughter.

Justin is also a sought-after keynote speaker, helping organisations and schools boost wellbeing and improve relationships.

Justin's new book, The Parenting Revolution

In The Parenting Revolution, Dr Justin Coulson also digs deep into the practical applications of this revolutionary new approach to parenting, looking in depth at a range of tricky parenting challenges including school refusal, homework, screen time, saying no, the morning rush, when your children don’t listen and how to parent on the same page. Buy a copy online now!

Essential Details: Dr Justin Coulson

• Visit Happy Families website
• Watch Parental Guidance Season 2
• Buy The Parenting Revolution online now!

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Online predators hide in all corners of the internet… and it’s more important than ever to understand the risks, how to reduce harm and what to do if you suspect something isn’t right.We chat with Jen Hoey, Parent Cyber Safety Consultant who shares her important insights into the importance of digital protection for children.

From social media platforms to online gaming, our children navigate a virtual landscape fraught with potential threats. As parents and carers, it falls upon us to equip ourselves with the knowledge and tools necessary to safeguard their online experiences.

Jen shares the distressing experience that her nine-year-old daughter had with an online predator - to help parents understand just how easily this can happen. She shares some simple strategies that parents can apply to prevent it happening to their child, as well as some important rules around tech in the home.

Listen to learn how to navigate the digital age with vigilance and care.

About Jen HoeyAs a Parent Cyber Safety Consultant and the founder of 'Not My Kid', Jen Hoey specialises in providing parents with resources and information aimed at protecting children from online dangers, advocating for reduced screen time, and preventing online child sexual exploitation.

Jen is a mother of three - two in their early twenties, and a younger child in primary school.

Jen’s daughter was exposed to an online predator when she was just nine years old, giving her first-hand experience with the challenges faced by children and parents in the digital age.

Jen has completed many courses in online safety and is currently pursuing a degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice. She has also managed her husband's psychiatric practice for over ten years, where she has observed a worrying increase in teenagers needing help because of problematic internet use.

Jen’s mission is to preserve childhood and keep all children safe from online child sexual exploitation, by empowering their parents through education.

Where to report online abuse or illegal content:

• Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation
• eSafety Commissioner

Follow Not My Kid:

• Website | Facebook | Instagram
• Join the Not My Kid Facebook group

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Victoria Vanstone is the creator and host of the hugely popular Sober Awkward podcast. Her new memoir A Thousand Wasted Sundays is an unashamedly warts and all look at modern day drinking culture, its impact on mental health and one mothers journey into freeing herself from the grip of socially normalised binge drinking.

Victoria grew up in 1980s England in a happy home full of laughter, booze and a disturbing amount of fancy-dress parties. From her youthful days downing cheap wine at the local park to dodging disastrous relationships and a messy run-in with a firework, her reliable mate alcohol was never far from reach.

Throughout her 20s she travelled the world, sought refuge in booze, endured a slew of one-night-stands and several holiday romances. Among these dalliances she recalls details of a Thai boyfriend she thought had died in the Tsunami, a guitarist with a soft-rock mullet, a flat capped Canadian, a sweet Japanese boy, a geezer from London and a Romanian man with ‘teeth like abandoned beach huts.’

Eventually, Victoria found herself in Australia with a husband and a child on the way. After sobering up for her first pregnancy, becoming a boring, bottom-wiping, cleaning machine meant she soon returned to her binge-drinking ways, and had to grapple anew with the habits and beliefs that had gone unchecked since childhood.

Incredibly funny and highly relatable, A Thousand Wasted Sundays is for anyone that has ever had a close encounter of the drinking kind.

Victoria says, ‘The book is about love, for myself and my family. Owning my story and being proud of who I am, no matter my errors. It’s also about dispelling shame and embracing what we perceive as ‘boring’.’

About Victoria VanstoneVictoria Vanstone is the host of Sober Awkward – A popular comedy podcast about two ex-party animals navigating parenting and socialising without their old buddy booze. She’s also a blogger www.drunkmummysobermummy.com and the CEO of www.cuppa.community, the free social network for the sober and sober curious.

Victoria started writing on the day she gave up alcohol and became a renowned over-sharer on her blog drunkmummysobermummy.com.

The reformed 'party girl' is now on a mission to help others stuck in a pattern of normalised social binge drinking via the podcast she co-hosts (Sober Awkward), which tracks two former party animals as they navigate life without booze. Originally from Reading in the UK, Victoria now lives on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland with her brood of uncontrollable children, a rather confused dog, and a very patient husband.

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Vapes, e-cigarettes, stigs, pods… they go by many names and they pose a health risk to our young people.Would your Year 5 or 6 child know what to do if a vape was offered to them? Would they understand the dangers? Would they know how to say "no"?

It's frighteningly easy for kids to come across vapes. They might find one on the side of the road (yuck!) or have one offered one to them by a friend with older siblings.

Vaping is on the rise with younger kids. Healthy Harold has launched a brand new program designed for kids in primary school, so that when they're offered a vape for the first time, they already have the knowledge and skills to make an informed decision.

Listen to this interview with Lisa Woodward from Life Ed... who shares her insights into what's happening right now with vaping & teens, and why it's more important than ever to educate kids at a younger age.

About Life EdLifeEd run fun educational lessons at schools to help kids make safer, healthier and happier choices.

They have recently added a new module to their program, called ‘Take a Breath’ - and it’s for kids in Year 5 and Year 6 at Primary School, to teach them about the dangers of vaping.

Their programs are delivered by a team of specially trained educators and supported by tune in lessons prior to the visit and a series of post-visit resources, their evidence-based program is not a rule book and does not dictate to children, this is essential to our success. Adopting a system-wide approach, their program is most effective when engaging the entire school community; students, teachers and parents. Delivered face to face or virtually.

About Lisa WoodwardAs Life Ed Australia’s Content Development Manager, Lisa Woodward is a master of shaping engaging material. But more than this, she has a clear goal in mind: “for every young person in Australia to see someone like them in Life Ed’s educational content.”

Her passion for education and representation comes from her many years of experience at Life Ed. Since 1992, she has used her knowledge, skills, experience and enthusiasm to educate hundreds of young people across Australia. Over the years, she’s been an Educator, trainer, manager, and she’s played an integral part in the creation of Life Ed’s preschool, primary and secondary programs.

She was appointed National Professional Learning Manager in 2018, where she developed and delivered quality training and professional development initiatives to all Educators across Australia.

In 2021, Lisa was seconded to the National Program Development team where she led the redevelopment of new Early Childhood Education resources and some of Life Ed’s most popular modules – including bCyberwise and Relate Respect Connect.

In 2022, Lisa developed and managed the creation of two new modules – Friends and Feelings and The Inside Story.

Lisa is a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion and the empowerment of children as she co-designs much of the educational content Life Ed develops with young people, providing them a platform to have their unique voices and life experiences heard.

More Info: https://lifeed.org.au/

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Want to create lasting positive habits so that you can live the lifestyle you've always wanted? We sit down with the inspiring Dr. Gina Cleo to understand the power of habits - and how we can use them to propel our lives forward.

Dr. Gina Cleo is a trained dietician, author, speaker and habit researcher. Gina specialises in guiding people to transform their habits, whether it's for their health, technology usage, sleep routines, work and money-related behaviours, or relationship dynamics. She’s incredibly passionate about teaching and empowering people to achieve long-term success through the incredible power of habits.

In this episode, we discuss:

• How we can use the science of habits to improve our lives
• What can we do to make habits stick?
• What’s the difference between people who can keep a habit, and others who can’t
• 21 days to create a habit - is it real?
• How to create habits quicker (so you can reach your goals faster!)
• The power of visualisation to achieve your goals
• Why you need to set up your environment to support your new habit
• How to stop scrolling on your phone before bed

Find out more from Dr Gina Cleo:

Website | Instagram

Buy 'The Habit Revolution' by Dr Gina Cleo

Free habit training

Habit Tracker Apps

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Are you struggling with getting your baby or toddler to sleep? Or simply want to learn some tips about how to make the process easier? We chat to Baby Sleep Consultant for her expert tips about how to get more sleep for baby... and for YOU! Plus:

• What age should a baby be able to ‘sleep through’ the night?
• Should you use an app to track baby sleep?
• What is a holistic approach to sleep for each individual child?
• At what point should you get professional support if your child isn’t sleeping?
• Importance of rituals to help them sleep
• Dummies. Yes or no?
• Is it ok to feed your baby to sleep?
• What to do if your baby wakes up super early?

About Catherine ThompsonCatherine Thompson from Completely Baby is an experienced Baby Sleep Consultant based on the lower north shore of Sydney, who provides practical sleep support and guidance to families with babies and toddlers from newborn up to 3 years.

She has professionally cared for babies and toddlers for over 20 years as a Children’s Nurse and Early Childhood Educator. As a mother of two girls, she appreciates more than ever the daily challenges you might be facing with your own baby. This can be a stressful and anxious time for you which is why getting the right support and guidance is crucial to give you and your baby the best possible start in this journey together.

When it comes to sleep there is no such thing as a ‘one size fits all approach’! Like adults, all babies have different sleep requirements and can find falling asleep easy or difficult.

Find out more about Catherine Thompson from Completely Baby:

Website | Facebook | Instagram

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Want to learn how to raise your kids without bribes, threats and punishment? Emotional Intelligence Coach Stephanie Pinto, shares how you can replace this style of parenting with something much more respectful, productive and compassionate.
In this episode of the Parenting Couch, you'll learn...

• What is emotional intelligence?
• How to get your kids to brush their teeth… share the ipad… or do their homework… without using bribes or threats.
• How to deal with tantrums in public (and at home!)
• Why ‘time outs’ don’t work, and more effective tools that you can use instead.
• How we can collaborate with our kids to form solutions to problems.
• Why it's important to apologise to your child when you 'mess' up.
• And so much more!

ABOUT STEPHANIE PINTO

Stephanie Pinto is an award-winning Emotional Intelligence coach, best-selling author, and international speaker. She’s also the host of the Emotionally Intelligent Parenting podcast.

Stephanie founded Let's Raise Emotionally Intelligent Kids, an online community of over 100,000 parents. Her best-selling book, From Chaos to Connection, was published in February 2023.

Stephanie is the Emotional Intelligence Mentor for Australia’s Nurture Parenting Magazine. She has also been featured in numerous international summits and conferences and in 2023 hosted her own virtual parent conference with 30 speakers from across the globe.

Stephanie has written for numerous publications such as Guide & Grow, Kiddiepedia, and Teachers Matter. In 2023 she received two Health and Wellbeing Business awards by Ausmumpreneur, a prestigious organisation that recognises the best and brightest businesses run by women.

Stephanie is also a paediatric anxiety therapist and former speech pathologist.

She lives in Sydney, Australia with her family.

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Are you feeling a little frazzled after a busy festive season? If 'self-care' has been at the bottom of your 'to do' list recently, it's time to change that. We chat with local spa owner, Jillian Coughlan, to find out some super simple ways that we can incorporate self-care into our daily lives, to improve our health, happiness and overall wellbeing.

It's the busiest time of year for parents! With end-of-year concerts, presentation days, gift shopping, work deadlines, graduations (the list goes on!), it's no wonder we just want to collapse by the time Christmas Day comes along. With all the extra stress, it can be hard to live in the moment and enjoy the simple pleasures, and it's not unusual to be a little snappier with the ones we love!

It's time to put 'self'-care' back to the top of your daily priorities, and it can be a lot easier than you think. Rachel and Sarah chat to busy mum-of-two and Spa Owner Jillian Coughlan to get some advice about how we can all incorporate self-care into our daily routine to live a calmer, more fulfilling & present life.

Jillian CoughlanJill is the Owner of The Spa Rooms, which first opened in Berowra Heights in 2021, and has recently opened a second spa in Hornsby. She's also a mum to two Primary School aged boys.

She comes from the 5-Star Day Spa industry, and has trained teams in some of Australia's top day spas- including the Bailies Lodges, The Darling Spa in Star City Casino, Orpheus on Lord Howe, The Lost World Day Spa in the Gold Coast Hinterland and numerous Hilton, QTand Peppers Spas.

Having worked with an Elder who mentored her into the incredible sacred wisdoms, rituals and earth medicine of her country, she has incorporated many of these elements into the treatments and beautiful products that she offers at The Spa Rooms. The elements of sacred ritual, meditation and healing interwoven through our entire treatment experiences.

The Spa Rooms: Essential Details

• Locations: Berowra Heights: 1/136-138b Berowra Waters Road (enter via Alan Road) | Hornsby: 1/264 Peats Ferry Road
• Phone: (02) 9456 0801
• Email: info@thesparooms.com.au
• Website | Facebook | Instagram

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Is your child starting high school soon? Make the transition from primary to high school a smooth one. This podcast interview with Youth Mindset Coach, Claire Eaton, is packed with invaluable tips for both parents and students to help them get off to the best start!Starting high school is one of the biggest changes that your child will go through. But it is also a time of huge excitement, maturity, responsibility and an opportunity to make lots of new friends.

In this interview on The Parenting Couch podcast, Claire Eaton shares invaluable tips about starting high school. Be sure to listen to the episode so you can support your tween as they move to the next stage of school! Here are just some of the topics covered:

• The most important thing you need to look for when choosing a high school for your child.
• Why it's okay to move your child to another school if it isn't working out.
• What can parents in Year 6 do to help their child get ready for high school.
• Top tips for students starting high school.
• How to help kids find their tribe at high school... and the importance of being themselves in those first few weeks.
• How to support a shy or anxious child.
• What are kids most scared about, and how can we help them overcome it?
• Why it's so important for teenagers to be organised... and yes, they can be taught to be organised!

About Claire Eaton

Claire Eaton is a national speaker, youth coach and author of 5 books for teens, Hello High School + Planner, ROC and Rise, You are Awesome and her newest book, The Organised Teenager. View the books. https://www.claireeaton.com.au/teen-books/

Beginning her career as a teacher, deputy principal and tutor at Edith Cowan University, it is where her deep interest in prevention-focused social, mental, and emotional health for young people, parents and families evolved.

In 2007 Claire left education to share her messages as speaker and begin her own youth coaching practice in Perth, which is still successfully supporting teenagers and families today.

Since 2007 Claire has been privileged to work with people of all ages and present her wellbeing ethos throughout Australia and she is well known for her practical and prevention focused approach and is sought after for the real and heartfelt way she connects with people she meets.

Follow Claire on Facebook and Instagram.

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Do you know what to say when your child asks you how babies are made? From what age should you talk to kids about sex? How do you teach children about consent? These are just some of the many issues that are covered in this latest podcast episode with Vanessa Hamilton, Author of 'Talking Sex".

Whether you're a parent, carer, health professional or a teacher, talking about sex doesn't have to be awkward.

In this interview on The Parenting Couch podcast, Vanessa Hamilton shares many simple tips and strategies to help you have these essential conversations with your kids. Whether you've got a toddler or a teenager, it's important to have age-appropriate conversations that support children as they grow up. Vanessa's goal is to empower the current generation of children with essential information to ensure they have safe and positive relationships during their lifetime.

• When should we start talking to our kids about sex?
• What to say if your child asks a question that you don't know how to answer
• Why parents should be the first place that kids hear about sex
• Is it okay to give nicknames to body parts?
• What to do if you find out your child has sent a nude picture
• How do you answer when children ask very personal questions about your own sex life
• When your child gets a boyfriend or girlfriend, should you allow them to spend time alone in their bedroom?
• How to talk to your kids about consent, from an early age
• And much more!

About Vanessa HamiltonVanessa Hamilton is a Sexuality Educator, Speaker, Co-Author of consent resource Kit and Arlo Find a Way, Founder of Talking The Talk Healthy Sexuality Education. In her 25 years as a sexual health nurse and educator, she has been privileged to hear, support, and contribute to the intensely personal stories of thousands of people about their journeys and experiences ‘as a sexual being’.

Vanessa wants parents talking to their children about sexuality, safety, reproduction, their bodies, diversity, pleasure, relationships, positivity, health, consent and more! The more people talk, learn, educate, and share accurate, comprehensive, diverse information about sex and sexuality, the better the outcome for everyone.

In her latest book Talking Sex, Vanessa Hamilton discusses how human sexuality is complex, interesting, and constantly changing in our society. It's hard for adults to talk about it with children. This difficulty can be overcome with some very simple strategies and key educational points.

As a nurse and educator, Vanessa has had the privilege of hearing from thousands of people about their sexual experiences throughout their lives. Her goal is to share experiences, stories and insights that enable parents to have an open, honest, and necessary conversation about human sexuality, respectful relationships and consent with your children or children you care for.

Online Resources

• Talking The Talk: Sex Education
• E-Safety
• Kids Helpline
• Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation
• Take It Down

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Are you in an unhappy or unhealthy marriage, and have been thinking about separation? If you're unsure of the first steps to take, or what might be ahead of you, be sure to listen to this enlightening interview with Family Lawyer, Anna Roberts from Delaney Roberts Specialist Family Lawyers.One of the 'most asked' Anonymous questions in the North Shore Mums Facebook group are around relationship and marriage issues. These can vary from women who want to leave a loveless marriage, right through to women who feel trapped in a toxic marriage that they feel they cannot escape.

To help our members get the correct advice they need in the early stages, Rachel and Sarah spoke to Anna Roberts, from Delaney Roberts Family Lawyers, to ask all those common questions. After years of working with people experiencing separation, Anna knows how important it is to start the separation process in a strong, informed and clear-minded place.

In this interview, you'll learn:

• Should you always appoint a family lawyer?
• Do all cases need to go to court, or are they resolved beforehand?
• How much would you expect to pay to see a family lawyer?
• What if you can’t afford a lawyer? Are there any free services for people who are financially struggling?
• How can you leave a narcissistic partner?
• Some couples decide to separate but stay living under the one roof. Does 'nesting' work?
• How you can get early funds from the property pool if you don't have an income.
• Should you stay in the family home or move out?
• How to get an AVO

About Anna RobertsAnna is the Principal Solicitor and Director of Delaney Roberts Family Lawyers. She is also an accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner. Anna has over 15 years’ experience in the area of Family Law including Divorce and Separation, Family Estate Planning and Contested Wills Claims.

Anna has a niche practice representing the spouses of high-income professionals and executives in relation to the division of complex property and investment holdings including business structures, as well as parenting arrangements and spousal maintenance.

Her empathetic nature, commercial acumen and strategic approach assist her clients to progress throughout their dispute with dignity, confidence and success.

Essential Details: Delaney Roberts Family LawyersDelaney Roberts Specialist Family Lawyers are a leading Australian specialist Family Law Firm with offices in Sydney and Newcastle. They deliver expert legal assistance in the framework of a specialised service delivery model, tailored to assist you to achieve an outcome and move on with dignity, certainty and security.

To make a Smart Start, book a Smart Start Appointment for $350.

• Address: Suite 1506, Level 15, 370 Pitt Street, Sydney
• Email: hello@delaneyroberts.com.au
• Phone: 1300 760 773
• Website | Facebook

Domestic Violence Support ServicesIf you are in immediate danger, call 000.

• Services for women escaping DV.
• 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732
• NSW DV Line: 1800 656 463
• NSW Sexual Violence Helpline: 1800 424 017

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A happy life starts with a happy home... and Feng Shui is a four-thousand-year-old practice that can be used to supercharge your home to create a balanced and harmonious space. Feng Shui Expert Patrica Lohan shared her top tips for updating your home to balance your house's energy, find greater flow and design a living space that can help you realise your dreams.Rachel and Sarah are joined by Patricia Lohan on The Parenting Couch, to learn how Feng Shui can enhance the harmony and well-being of your family's living space. In this interview you'll learn:

• The importance of noticing how your home makes you feel when you arrive home
• Why your bedroom should be a sanctuary, and not a place for laptops, mobile phones or photos of your kids!
• Why toys belong in the playroom (and not your child's bedroom)
• How to choose what toys to declutter, and what can happily stay
• Ways to 'switch off' from work when your desk is in the middle of the house or on your kitchen table

About Patricia Lohan

Patricia Lohan is a Feng Shui expert, manifesting magnet, alchemist, healer and real-life Irish Celtic Shaman. Some people call her the “Mary Poppins of Prosperity".

Patricia is the creator of PowerHouse Feng Shui and Author of The Happy Home: A Guide To Creating A Happy, Healthy, Wealthy Life. She has helped thousands of people across the globe embrace Feng Shui and creates lasting changes in their businesses, homes and lives. Patricia has seen first hand the power of the mind, surroundings and inner healing, clearing and aligning everything so it works holistically.

Patricia has been featured in media around the world including The New York Time, CNN, Fox, Forbes, The New York Post, She Knows, Essence, Mind Body Green, USA Today and Elephant Journal.

• Want to know more about Feng Shui? Join Patricia's Feng Shui Mini Course for $9!
• Follow on Instagram
• Join the Powerhouse Feng Shui Facebook group

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Is your child plagued by negative self-talk? Do they have low self-esteem? In this empowering episode of The Parenting Couch podcast, Rachel and Sarah talk to Lauren Thompson, Author of 'There's a Bully in my Brain' who shares her tips about how kids can develop a more positive self-talk and healthy self-esteem.One of the most significant mental well-being issues facing Australian children is declining self-esteem.With one in 5 students saying they already feel negative about their self-esteem as they enter high school, children need help in developing positive self-talk from a young age.

Working as a support teacher (and a mum of three herself), Lauren Thompson saw the impact that negative self-talk has on children firsthand. Lauren began challenging these thoughts with her primary school students, helping them to develop a more positive mind set and healthy self-esteem. In teaching them to stand up to the bullies in their brain, Lauren watched as the children around her began to change into happier, healthier versions of themselves.

In this episode, Lauren shares:

• The power of positive affirmations - and her top 3 affirmations for kids
• Why it’s more important to praise your child’s effort, not just their successes
• The 'GGG' dinner ritual that you can do every night at the table
• How kids have the power to change their negative self-talk
• How to help your child take risks, without saying ‘be careful’
• Why it's okay to use the 'Parent Pause'

There's a Bully in My Brain, by Lauren ThompsonAfter seeing the positive impact her work was having and recognising that her own struggle with negative self-talk first came at a young age, Lauren decided to write a picture book to help turn one’s inner-dialogue from a bully into a friend, offering practical strategies to counteract negative thoughts.

There’s a Bully in My Brain takes readers inside the mind of one young girl, struggling with negative self-talk, who begins to stand up against the bully in her brain, fighting away the pessimistic thoughts with uplifting and inspiring words of kindness.

There’s a Bully in My Brain is for every child that has told themselves they aren’t good enough and every adult who wants in inspire their children’s ability to fight the voices in their head.

About Lauren Thompson

Lauren Thompson has a passion for helping children and currently works in primary schools as a support teacher, working with children with additional needs. She has always loved helping children feel their best and spent many years teaching yoga and meditation where she specialised in children’s classes.

Lauren lives on the South Coast of NSW and is a loving mother of three children. Working with kids as well as having her own has given Lauren deep insight into what challenges children are struggling with the most today. She hopes that her books will be able to reach a wider span of young people to help them overcome any difficulties they might be experiencing.

Buy a copy of There's A Bully in my Brain.

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Got a spring in your step? Keen to tackle the cutlery drawer, linen cupboard or wardrobe? The Decluttering Diva joins Rachel & Sarah on The Parenting Couch to share her top tips for Spring Cleaning. This interview will give you the motivation you need to get started... and once you've sorted one area of your life, you'll be keen to move onto the next!

In the latest episode of The Parenting Couch podcast, Rachel and Sarah sit down with Kristina Duke, Decluttering Diva, to get her top tips for Spring Cleaning! In the episode, you'll learn...

• What's the best way to approach Spring Cleaning?
• The clever tactic to ensure you smash all your spring cleaning goals
• How to tackle spring cleaning the wardrobe... kitchen... and linen cupboard
• To sell, donate or recycle... how to choose and how to action
• Why a tidy cupboard reduces the mental load and helps your mental health

Kristina Duke

Kristina Duke is a North Shore Mums of three kids, and is the lead of organiser and founder of Decluttering Diva since 2013.

Since its inception Decluttering Diva has grown to a team of 6 professional organisers servicing clients with chronic disorganisation, hoarding disorder and/or ADHD issues across Sydney.

Kristina takes clutter seriously and has recently been accredited as NSW’s 1st Certified Professional Organiser in Chronic Disorganisation through ICD – a not for profit organisation that provides education and training to professional organisers and related professionals who specialise in working with the population affected by chronic disorganisation.

When she isn’t organising Kristina loves DIY projects in her home, op-shopping, and singing – hence the Diva name.

• Mobile: 0402 021 995
• Website | Facebook | Instagram

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It’s not easy being a parent in a world of TikTok and bubblegum-flavoured vapes, but new release book When Life Sucks gives you the practical tools to help make your life a little lighter and to support your teen towards a healthy headspace.

As a parent herself, Dr Jo knows how hard it can– especially if a teen communicates only in eye rolls and grunts!

“I’ve been through some difficult times when my own teens thought that life sucked. Sometimes they said life sucked because of me! And sometimes I felt that parenting sucked. So, I know what it’s like to struggle and to feel that you don’t know how to help your teen – and I’m a psychiatrist! What on earth is it like for parents who don’t know their way around the mental health system or the theory of what to do?” – Dr Jo.

• Not your ordinary general parenting book – it also covers topics at the gritty end of mental health including bipolar and psychosis, self-harm and suicide, alcohol and drug abuse, and antisocial behaviour.
• Includes topics that many parents want to understand – eating and body image, neurodivergence and gender identity.
• Dr Jo writes not only as a psychiatrist but also as a parent and a comedian – her easy-to-read book contains humour, realness and understanding.
• Helps parents build the parenting foundations for supporting their teens, while also providing practical tips for common mental health challenges that their teen may face.

Dr Jo says that when life sucks, it can take all our strength to keep showing up with an open mind for our teens and she hopes that, alongside some practical ideas for supporting teens, this book helps parents feel less alone.

When Life Sucks is an essential guide to supporting your teen’s mental health, for every parent who is reaching for ‘Dr Google’ or a chardonnay in despair.

https://drjoprendergast.com/

Support Services

• Lifeline (Crisis support and suicide prevention): 13 11 14
• Beyond Blue: 1300 22 46 36
• Mensline: 1300 78 99 78
• Suicide call back Service: 1300 659 467
• National Indigenous Critical Response Service: 1800 805 801

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In the latest episode of The Parenting Couch podcast, Rachel and Sarah talk with Katie Parker from Bloomfully... who has created an incredible online program for tween girls called 'I Believe In Me'. Katie opens up about her passion for helping girls to bloom, and her insights for how parents can support their daughters.

Tween girls have a lot to deal with... friendship issues, changing bodies, social media, school pressures and more. In recent years, there's been a huge increase in anxiety and depression from this age group, and as parents we want to be able to do whatever we can to support them through tough times.

In this episode of The Parenting Couch podcast, Katie Parker from Bloomfully shares her advice for some of the big situations that your daughter might experience:

• Dealing with bullies and exclusion: When friends are mean and drama starts - what is the best way to handle it?
• Mental health: What can we do to support our child's mental health, particularly if they are suffering from anxiety or depression?
• Identity: Why girls should strive to find their own passions and direction, and not be a follower.
• Hard times: How you can help your daughter through failures, disappointments and hard emotions ?
• Negative self-talk: How can tweens stop the negative self-talk and stop the comparison game?
• Building Confidence: How you can build lasting confidence in your tween daughter, to help her now and in the future?
• Family routines: Why family routines are important... even with older children!

Meet Katie Parker

Katie is the President & CEO of Bloomfully and has a passion for building the confidence of young girls, tweens and women.

Her mission is to help them grow above the comparing, the criticism, and the self-doubt that are plaguing girls. She honestly believes EVERY girl and EVERY woman is remarkably unique and needed in this world.

Katie is married to Matt Parker of Album Surfboards and they live in Orange County, CA with their six children. In the Summer they surf and in the Winter they snowboard. Family and faith are at her core and the blooming businesses are an extension of that foundation. She is the CEO & creator of Singers Company, I Believe in Me, and Bloomfully, companies that focus on building the confidence of girls of all ages.

As she watches the world become ever more complex to navigate for girls, she longs to help them stay grounded/rooted yet willing and able to bloom wherever they may be in the world. She hopes Bloomfully will help girls believe in their gifts, encourage them to grow and motivate them to share with the world. The world needs strong minds, and strong hearts in strong girls.

I Believe In Me is a life-cheering online adventure for tweens that gives real tools to create a happy school life! This time of life can be tricky and through weekly episodes, video tutorials and fun interactive online events we focus on promoting positive mindset and individual growth for each member. Girls can join ANY time and enjoy the program at their own pace.
Essential Details

• Website: bloomfully.com
• Online Program: Register your child into I Believe In Me

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Financial stress is real, and it has a huge impact on our happiness. When we're stressed about money, our relationships with our partners are strained, we're not as patient with our children and our physical and mental health is impacted. If we can take control of our financial wellbeing and reduce the stress, the benefits are huge. And it's just the smallest changes in the way with think about money use money and hold onto money that can make a profound change to our future.

In this episode, Rachel and Sarah chat to Financial Planner Canna Campbell about how we can build, manage and protect our money. Canna is also known as Sugar Mamma, and has her own YouTube Channel with over 125k subscribers and 9 million video views! Although she now lives 'on the other side of the bridge'. she grew up on the North Shore and attended Abbotsleigh.

Canna shares her top tips for getting through these tough financial times, as well as tips about how we can set ourselves up for the future.

• Why you need to do a budget
• What household expenditures will give you the biggest savings
• Tips for savings on your weekly grocery shop
• How you can get a better deal from your utility providers
• Call utility providers to see if you can get a better deal
• Why you should call your bank or the debt helpline if you are really struggling to keep your head above waters
• Easy ways to bring in extra money - like selling or renting things you already own
• Flexible jobs for mums that you can do at the weekend or at nights.
• Why you should pay your bills on a regular basis
• How important it is to have Emergency Money, and how much should you have set aside?
• Can you cut back on insurance costs?
• Is it worth it to use a Financial Planner worth it?I

**Meet Canna Campbell

C**anna Campbell is a Financial Planner and published author, with extensive experience spanning across corporate banking, boutique wealth management, television, radio, keynote speaking, podcasting and digital and social media production.

Canna established her financial planning firm, ‘SASS Financial Services’, in 2007. She founded the financial media platform, ‘SugarMamma.TV’, in 2015 providing accessible financial education to everyday people who may feel intimidated and confused by personal finance.

Canna has been featured in The Sydney Morning Herald, Vogue, The Huffington Post, Mamamia, Yahoo, The Daily Telegraph and The Daily Mail, as well as 2GB, Sunrise and The Morning Show on Channel Seven.

Essential Details: SugarMamma.TV

• Podcasts: SugarMamma's Fireplay | How Do They Afford That?
• Books: Mindful Money | The $1000 Project
• Follow: YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook

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Do you feel like you never have enough hours in the day? Do you feel guilty about not baking organic muffins? Are your overwhelmed by an inbox that never seems to go down? Help is at hand. Kate Toon shares her insights about why you need to lower your expectations and banish the idea of being the 'perfect' parent.

Most parents just want to earn a decent income and have time to read their kids a bedtime story without having a meltdown in the process. But the juggle is real!

In this episode, Rachel and Sarah are joined on The Parenting Couch podcast by award-winning business mentor and digital marketing coach, Kate Toon... who has been running her own business from home since becoming a mother 14 years ago.

This podcast is for any mum who feels overwhelmed by the endless 'to do' list... whether you run your own business, juggling a paid job or trying to do it all at home. It's a refreshing and animated conversation about why women need to reduce their expectations and realise that they don't need to do it all, packed with practical tips about sharing the workload.

'6 Figures in School Hours: How to run a successful business (and still be a good parent)'Most parents don’t want to build a global empire or make a gazillion dollars a year. They just want to earn a decent income and have time to read their kids a bedtime story without having a meltdown in the process. Yes, we know running a business can be rewarding. However, it can also seep into every life crack, eat up your energy and leave you exhausted, stressed and snapping at your small humans.

In 'Six Figures in School Hours', award-winning digital marketing coach and business mentor Kate Toon shares practical and doable tips for parents to run a successful business, make serious money and not burn themselves to a frazzle in the process.

First, you will examine your business goals and measure your why against your desires for family life; then, discover passive income ideas and ways to involve the family in your business life in an enjoyable way; finally, find out how to turn that six-figure profit dial up or down depending on the compromises you’re willing to make.

Throughout the book are tools and tactics to manage your money, be more productive and focus on what matters, along with inspiring stories from other successful business parents who know exactly how it feels. Click here to buy the book.

About Kate ToonKate Toon is an award-winning entrepreneur and parent to one human and one fur baby. From her humble backyard shed on the Central Coast she masterminds an ambitious business universe, helping thousands of other humans to build their own version of success through digital marketing and business know-how. Kate is a renowned speaker, mentor, educator and podcaster.

She’s been named Australia’s Most Influential Small Business Woman (2022), one of Australia’s Top 50 Small Business Leaders (2022), and Businesswoman of the Year and Training & Education Provider of the Year at the national My Business Awards (2020).

She’s also the founder of CopyCon and The Digital Marketing Collective Conference, and a resident expert on Kochie’s Business Builders.

In her spare time, Kate is often found taking Gym selfies and rollerskating, much to the embarrassment of her teenage son.

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Does your baby hate tummy time, suffer from reflux or have trouble breastfeeding? Have you noticed that your child is developing bad posture from using screens? Did you know that all kids should be screened for scoliosis? Dr Tori Wright from Vivid Health Chiropractic shares some of the reasons why you might want to consider chiropractic care for your child (and why it's a lot more gentle than you might think).

In this episode of The Parenting Couch podcast, Rachel and Sarah chat with Dr Tori Wright, Chiropractor at Vivid Health in Hornsby, about some of the reasons why you might want to take your child to a chiropractor.

If you've got a baby and have troubles with breastfeeding, reflux, sleep or tummy time, Tori explains some of the reasons how chiropractic care could help them to thrive.

She also looks at the big issues of kids and screens, and how use of tablets and phones is impacting kids' development. Tori shares her tips for helping to manage screen time and what to do if you think your child's posture is suffering.

About Dr Tori WrightDr Tori Wright is the Principal Chiropractor at Vivid Health Chiropractic in Hornsby, and is passionate about treating pregnant women, babies, and children of all ages.

Dr Tori attended RMIT University in Melbourne. She completed a Bachelor of Applied Science in Chiropractic and a Masters of Chiropractic with Distinction. Dr Tori has also completed a postgraduate diploma in Paediatric Chiropractics.

Tori was introduced to chiropractic after experiencing pancreatitis and suffering from middle back pain. She had such wonderful results from her chiropractic care at the time that she chose it as her career path. So impressed with her own results, Tori delved into the Sacro Occipital Technique (SOT) as post graduate training. After practising in multiple SOT clinics, Tori opened her own Practice in 2014.

Dr Tori is committed to educating her community on the benefits of chiropractic care and can regularly be found chatting to schools, preschools, mothers' groups, hospitals and various groups about their health and wellbeing with chiropractic needs.

Tori juggles her busy chiropractic career and her young family with more energy than most. As an open-minded practitioner, Tori regularly works with varying practitioners to achieve her patients' goals.

Essential Details: Vivid Health Chiropractic

• Address: Suite 719, 1C Burdett St, Hornsby NSW 2077
• Email: info@vividchiro.com.au
• Phone: 9476 6888
• Website: Vivid Health

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Are you curious about changing your relationship with alcohol? Whether you want to cut back, moderate, take a break or quit for good, putting down the bottle isn't easy. But help is at hand! Ange Chappel is a North Shore Mum who has recently launched a life-changing app called Mind The Sip – helping thousands of people re-evaluate the role of alcohol in their lives.Has a nightly wine crept into the bedtime routine with the kids? Do you try to not drink during the week, only to binge at the weekend? If you feel like alcohol has become a problem and you want to do something about it, this inspiring interview with Ange Chappel from Mind The Sip will help you take a step in the right direction.

Ange joins Rachel and Sarah on The Parenting Couch podcast to share her top tips for cutting back on alcohol, including:

• Listen to sober curious podcasts.
• Stock the fridge with alcohol-free alternatives.
• Don’t stop socialising – head out with a drinks plan and clear intention.
• Play the tape forward and imagine yourself leaving as fresh as you arrived.
• Become acquainted with “Quit-Lit” - a genre of literature for the sober curious.
• Journal your moods & triggers and celebrate your wins.
• Pop a guided mediation on to get out of your head and re-centre.

About Ange Chappel

Ange Chappel is the Founder of Mind The Sip & Certified Recovery Coach. Driven by a desire to find a solution that focuses on moderation rather than strict sobriety, Ange took the initiative to create Mind The Sip — an innovative alcohol reduction app.

Through her work as Founder of Mind The Sip, Ange aims to inspire individuals to reassess their relationship with alcohol, improve their wellbeing, and unlock a brighter, more balanced future. Providing a platform that counts alcohol-free days, promotes moderation, and encourages long-term change.

Ange’s unwavering commitment and dedication to helping others make her a driving force in the field of alcohol reduction. Her vision and passion continue to make a profound impact on the lives of individuals seeking a mindful and healthier approach to drinking.

Mind The Sip

Mind The Sip is a mindful drinking app to help you reassess your relationship with alcohol. It provides you with the tools and resources to cement a lifestyle free from hangovers, regrets and excess expense. Their mission for all members is to drink mindfully and within the health guidelines, with it being your ultimate choice whether you wish to go all the way to zero.

• Download Mind The Sip app
• Follow Mind The Sip on Instagram or Facebook

Ange Recommends

• Alcohol Explained – William Porter
• Higher Sobriety – Jill Stark
• A Happier Hour – Rebecca Weller

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Welcome to Currambena in Cammeraygal Country

“….learning in a co-operative environment in which decision-making and authority are shared.”(David Cohen, Currambena founder and friend)

We are a democratic school based on the North Shore of Sydney that offers truly child-centred education for both pre and primary school children. Established over 50 years ago, we have long been recognised as a leader in innovative educational thinking. At Currambena we deliver a holistic approach to learning, with the help of a flexible curriculum, which focuses on developing a child’s skills for life as well as high academic standards. 

http://currambena.nsw.edu.au/

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Want to know how to be a GREAT parent? Not a half-baked parent. Not a ‘good-enough’ parent. A great parent? Dr Justin Coulson joins Rachel & Sarah on The Parenting Couch podcast to share his insights into a revolutionary parenting style that will transform the way you 'parent' your kids.About Dr Justin Coulson

Dr Justin Coulson is the co-host of the popular TV program Parental Guidance, which has just launched a second season on Channel Nine, and Australia's top ranked parenting podcast, The Happy Families podcast. He is author of four other bestselling family and parenting books: 21 Days to a Happier Family, 9 Ways to a Resilient Child, 10 Things Every Parent Needs to Know and Miss-Connection. 

Justin and his wife, Kylie, have been married since the late 1990s and are the parents of six daughters. Together they host the number 1 parenting podcast in the country and run the Happy Families network.

https://www.happyfamilies.com.au/

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When exercise feels impossible, Lizzie Williamson makes it easy. Whether you’re brushing your teeth, waiting for the kettle to boil or hanging out the washing, Lizzie's Two Minute Moves are all about making energy-boosting movement part of your everyday.

We all know that we should be moving more, but sometimes it can feel impossible to find the time or motivation to even get started. In this episode of The Parenting Couch podcast, Lizzie inspires Rachel and Sarah with her abundant energy and enthusiasm about the importance of moving.

Lizzie Williamson has spent over a decade helping women to get their bodies, energy and confidence back.

Lizzie shares her inspiring true story of how she used movement to lift herself out of post natal depression. Her mission is to inspire others to stopping the excuses and reap the benefits of a happier, healthier more energised life. It starts with two minutes!

• Why it's not as simple as just saying "why don't you just exercise?"
• How Post Natal Depression made everything seem impossible
• Why it took her so long to see a GP about her Post Natal Depression
• The vital importance of putting on your own oxygen mask before assisting others
• Why we need to get over Mother Guilt for doing things for ourselves
• How to get started moving... it takes just two minutes!

About Lizzie Williamson

Dubbed by the US media as ‘the excuse-buster from Down-Under’, Lizzie Williamson is the founder and author of Two Minute Moves, Keynote and TEDx speaker, certified personal trainer and a regular fitness presenter on morning television with her work featured on Good Morning America and the Today Show.

Through her fun, interactive sessions and energiser breaks, Lizzie inspires her audiences to integrate micro movement breaks into their day so they can be their most focussed, energised and happier selves.

She has got hundreds-of-thousand attendees around the world stretching, moving and dancing at conferences featuring President Barack Obama, Michelle Obama, Tony Robbins & The Dalia Lama.

Want to get to know Lizzie Williamson?

• Visit Lizzie Wiliamson's website
• Follow on Instagram
• Follow on Linkedin
• Subscribe to Two Minute Moves on YouTube
• Buy Lizzie Williamson's 'Two Minute Moves' book

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If you’re buying or selling property at the moment, you’re probably getting lots of opinions and advice from well-meaning friends and family. So how do you know whose advice to follow? In this episode, local Buyers Agent Henny Stier shares her expert answers to some of the most common real estate myths to help you sort fact from fiction.

Does a swimming pool really add value to a property? Is a north-to-rear property the only type to consider? Do you always pay more at auction?

There are so many Real Estate myths that circulate… so how do you know what advice to follow?

Henny Stier is a North Shore Buyers Agent and the co-founder of OH Property Group in Sydney. She has bought hundreds of homes across Sydney’s North Shore on behalf of her clients, so understands the local property market inside out.

In this episode, Henny gives her insights into some of the most common Real Estate Myths… clearly explaining right from wrong. These real estate myths include…

• Is real estate really about location, location, location?
• Is North-to-rear really that important?
• You always pay more at Auction
• Solicitors are always better than Conveyancers
• It is cheaper to renovate than to knock down rebuild
• Stay away from Heritage-listed houses or Conservation streets
• Off-markets are always good buying
• You should avoid bushfire prone land
• A swimming pool adds value to a property

About Henny Stier

Henny is the co-founder and Principal Buyers Agent at OH Property Group.

Henny is well-known for her knowledge and passion for property, her great instincts and sound advice, her meticulous attention to the smallest of details and her ability to extract valuable information from all kinds of sources to help her clients secure the property of their choice. Diligent and extremely responsive, Henny is infinitely willing to go the extra mile for her clients and always has their best interest in mind. Her significant experience in building, renovating and managing properties is a great asset to her clients.

A respected, straight talking property expert, Henny is sought after by the media to discuss various real estate topics and to dispel myths in her typical no-nonsense style.

Essential Details: OH Property Group

• Visit OH Property’s website
• Follow OH Property on Facebook
• Read testimonials in the North Shore Mums Directory

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Director, Principal Clinical Psychologist, Supervisor and Best Selling Author

Renee has counseled hundreds of individuals, couples and families for over 30 years. She cares deeply about her clients and has created a warm and safe environment for all.

Renee has worked intensely on creating a new technique for dealing with generalised anxiety disorder, social anxiety, fear of public speaking, performance anxiety and panic attacks. Renee’s other key areas of interest are depression, relationships and couple therapy, self-worth, parenting, resilience and well-being.

https://anxietysolutionscbt.com/

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Have you ever thought about launching a new product? We speak to entrepreneur Laura Campbell who saw the need for a baby carrier that didn't break your back... so she created one herself! Here, she shares her business journey from idea to the launch of the Hackerlily HipSurfer!

Got yourself a Stage 9 Clinger? Or perhaps a teether, light sleeper or adventure seeker? Babies get heavy and carrying a toddler is back-breaking stuff. Entrepreneur and Mum of two, Laura Campbell has launched a baby carrier aimed at lightening the load of parenthood, designed for health, convenience and fashion.

But launching a product isn't easy! Rachel and Sarah from The Parenting Couch podcast sit down with Laura to find out why she decided to create a baby product, and the exact steps she took to get it launched! In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why Laura created the Hackerlily HipSurfer
• How she created a product from scratch to make carrying kids easier (and more stylish!)
• What makes the Hackerlily HipSurfer different to other baby carriers
• How much she had to invest to get the product to market
• The big challenges she has faced in launching a baby product
• The best online business community groups to use for support
• Why she wants more mums to launch businesses

About Laura Campbell
Laura Campbell is a mum of two, Entrepreneur and Founder of Hackerlily HipSurfer.

Laura has designed the first baby carrier of its kind in Australia, aimed at lightening the load of parenthood. The award -winning HipSurfer hipseat baby carrier is the product of Laura’s lived experience of raising two young children in the hot Australian climate, while managing the symptoms of arthritis and Carpal Tunnel. In 2021, while Laura was on maternity leave with her son, she found herself struggling with painful swelling in her back and joints, and carrying her baby felt impossible. Unable to find a carrier that suited her style or needs and that didn’t take minutes to strap on, she set about designing her own.

Eight prototypes later, the Hackerlily HipSurfer was born- an ergonomic, doctor-approved, strap-free, hipseat baby carrier with built-in storage and world first interchangeable cover.

Special Offer: 10% offWant a Hackerlily HipSurfer for yourself? Laura is giving listeners the opportunity to buy one online with a 10% discount!

• Click here to view the Hackerlily HipSurfer range.
• Promo Code: NSMUMS10
• Hurry, offer ends 30 April 2023

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In Australia, one in four women have experienced domestic violence in their life. Tragically, one woman in Australia is murdered every week by her partner. And there's an alarming increase in the number of North Shore Mums who are reaching out for advice and support as a result of abuse at home in our Facebook group.

In this episode of The Parenting Couch podcast, Rachel and Sarah sit down with Jacquie Murray and Courtney Parsons from Mary's House, a refuge on Sydney's North Shore who help women in crisis. In this episode, we talk about:

• What are the 'red flags' that indicate your partner might be abusive...
• How can you leave if your partner threatens to do something awful
• How can you leave if you don't have any funds behind you
• How Mary's House can help women experiencing abuse
• How to prepare to leave your house without your partner knowing
• What can we, as parents, do to reduce the risk of their child becoming an abuser?
• Local services where women can get support
• How you can support a friend who is going through abuse

About Jacquie Murray

Jacquie Murray is the Fundraising and Engagement Manager at Mary's House. Before joining Mary's House Services, Jacquie worked for the Young Parents Program at Australian Red Cross and as Practice Manager of the Gidget Foundation, an organisation that exists to promote emotional wellbeing for expectant and new parents and to raise awareness of perinatal anxiety and depression amongst women and their families.

About Courtney Parsons

Courtney Parsons is the Service Manger and former Case Worker at Mary's House. Courtney has a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from UNSW and has held various practitioner and senior social worker roles in the DV space, before becoming Service Manager at Mary’s House Services.

Domestic Violence Support Services

If you are in immediate danger, call the police emergency on 000.

Click here for a complete list of local services for women escaping domestic violence.

• 1800RESPECT: 800 737 732
• NSW Domestic Violence Line: 1800 656 463
• NSW Sexual Violence Helpline: 1800 424 017
• Women’s Legal Services NSW
• Domestic Violence Advocacy Service (DVAS) - 1800 810 784 or 02 8745 6999
• Lower North Shore Domestic Violence Network
• Sydney Homeless Connect
• Women & Children First

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Has your home loan been steadily increasing over the last couple of years? Are you about to come off a very low interest rate? We speak to financial planner Daniel Brown who shares some golden nuggets about what you can do to ride the interest rate rise.

If you've got a mortgage, like most Australians, you're no doubt facing increasing financial stress at the moment. Not only are home loan interest rates steadily rising, the cost of living is increasing too - whether that's the weekly groceries in the trolley, petrol in your car and just about everything else.

"It's not a sexy topic, and it's something we'd like to avoid. It's probably why most Australians don't get advice. They put it in the "too hard basket". But this is the time to do the opposite. To be prepared, to get ready, because it's not going to stop anytime soon. Inflation is very high. The only lever the Reserve Bank has to put interest rates up, and I suspect that will continue. That impact will be significant in the short to medium term (next two years). We are really going to feel it. Preparation is key." - Daniel Brown, My Money Sorted

In this episode of The Parenting Couch podcast, Rachel and Sarah sit down with money guru Daniel Brown from My Money Sorted, who shares his recommendations about how to ride the interest rate wave... and what you can do now to prepare yourself for the future. In this episode, you'll learn

• What you can do right now if you know your fixed rate is coming to an end soon
• At what point should you negotiate your next rate?
• Ways to temporarily reduce your mortgage payments
• Whether you should speak to your existing bank first, or use a broker
• If you are refinancing, are you better to go onto a fixed or variable rate?
• What to do if you can't pay your mortgage anymore
• If you have money in the bank, is now a good time to invest?
• Should you talk to your kids about money and how much things cost?
• Ways to create extra income to service your loan

About Daniel Brown (My Money Sorted)

Daniel is a qualified financial planner with 20 years of experience working in financial services. Having spent his entire career learning what it takes to get your money sorted Daniel’s greatest satisfaction in life is sharing his knowledge for the benefit of others. Alongside the My Money Sorted team Daniel is on a mission to improve the lives of 5 million Aussies by helping them make the best money moves, no matter their stage of life.

As well as being a seasoned finance expert and co-founder of My Money Sorted, Daniel is a father, Parramatta Eels footy tragic, property investor, entrepreneur, and has written extensively about investment, retirement planning, entrepreneurship and personal development.

His work has been featured in Independent Financial Adviser, XY Adviser, and Hunter Headline amongst others.

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Got a teen? As you enter the world of parenting a teenager, there are a whole range of new parenting challenges to face. No longer are you worrying about bed wetting, tantrums or fussy eating… you now might need to support your child through more serious issues like self harm, eating disorders or school refusal.

If you’ve got a teenager, it’s quite likely that you could be struggling to cope with some of the many new issues that are going on in their lives. Fortunately for us, help is out there. EPIC (Empowering Parents in Crisis) is a local service that provides peer support for parents and carers of teens facing challenges such as self harm, eating disorders, substance use, school refusal, ADHD and mental health concerns and criminal activity.

To get an insight into these challenging teenage years, Rachel and Sarah sat down with Madeleine Steel, CEO of EPIC to learn about the issues that can come up, and how EPIC provides a safe space to support parents who are struggling to deal with situations.

About Madeleine Steel

Madeleine is CEO and cofounder of EPIC, a peer support organisation for parents and carers of young people. Madeleine is passionate about helping parents and carers navigate the challenges of raising teenagers, and provide them with the support they need to thrive.

Madeleine’s lived experience has led her to understand the importance of community connection in helping parents cope with the challenges they face. It is her belief that through peer support and sharing experiences and resources, parents/carers can learn from each other and build the resilience they need to best support themselves and their families.

Madeleine is also a keen horticulturist, landscaper, designer, travel consultant, but her most treasured hat is mother to two wonderful teenagers.

About EPIC (Empowering Parents in Crisis)

Stressed? Isolated? Confused? Parents are first responders to their young people, and EPIC has been created to provide a supportive community that is safe, anonymous and nonjudgmental. Through EPIC, you’ll discover ideas, strategies and resources to help you parent your teenager.

Click here to join the EPIC Community to learn about upcoming events and to receive the newsletter. Click here to join the members-only private Facebook group.

Essential Details: EPIC

• Phone: 0426 425 164
• Email: contact@empoweringparentsincrisis.com
• Website | Facebook | Instagram

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In this episode, we talk about this topic that impacts us all. We all experience it at some time, or alot of the time. Rachel and Sarah discuss Sarah's latest Mum Guilt. And delve into some of the other areas we tend to suffer this guilt. 

Support Services

• Gidget Foundation: Call 1300-851-758 or visit their website.
• PANDA: For immediate help contact PANDA on 1300 726 306. The PANDA National Perinatal Anxiety and Depression helpline is open Mon-Fri 9.00am to 7.30pm (AEST)
• Lifeline: 13 11 14. Helpline is open 24 hours/day
• Beyond Blue: 1300 22 46 36

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Is setting boundaries a challenge for you? Do you say ‘Yes’ to everything because you fear disappointing people, don’t want to cause any drama or simply want to keep the peace? Meet Suzanne Culberg. She’s a “Nope Coach’ who helps women to say “no” without feeling like a bitch.

In this episode of The Parenting Couch podcast, Rachel and Sarah chat to the inspiring Suzanne Culberg… who shares her rollercoaster weightloss journey and how she eventually changed her mindset to take back control of her life.

About Suzanne Culberg

Suzanne Culberg is a coach and author, who helps over-givers and people pleasers learn to set boundaries and say ‘No’ in a way that feels good.

Through her signature online program Why W8? Suzanne has helped hundreds of women break the cycle of putting themselves last and instead build the confidence to set boundaries.

Suzanne’s passion for helping women is fueled by her own experiences of over-giving, over-consuming, and over-doing everything. She’s on a mission to not only help women set boundaries for themselves but also to make boundaries normal. We should be saying ‘No’ more often.

Suzanne is a Certified Practitioner of Neuro Linguistic programming (NLP) and holds a Bachelor of Medical Science (Honours). Suzanne also has Certificates III and IV in Fitness,and is a Certified Sacred Depths Practitioner.

Suzanne lives in Sydney, Australia with her husband Jeremy and her two young children who keep her both busy and entertained. When she’s not coaching her clients, running her programs, sharing her latest wisdom on Facebook Live, podcasting or writing her popular newsletter, she can be found reading, enjoying Diamond Dotz, or burlesque dancing. She is also a big fan of Yoga.

• Follow Suzanne on Facebook or Instagram.
• Subscribe to her podcast Over It with Kristan & Suzanne

Why W8?

Massive overhauls are usually a direct line to disappointment. In Why W8?, you’ll learn how even the smallest of actions leads to lasting changes, but no changes can be made without badass boundaries.

Suzanne’s next 10-week online Why W8 is running from 18 April to 26 June, 2023. Find out more.

The Beginning is Sh*t

‘The Beginning is Sh*t’ is the heart wrenching and inspiring story of a woman desperate to achieve a healthy and comfortable weight, her frustration with the many diets she endures, and the ultimate discovery that leads her to ditch dieting and release weight for good. Buy a copy.

Support Services

• SANDS: Support for miscarriage, stillborn or newborn death. Call 1300 308 307
• Beyond Blue: Mental health support for anxiety & depression. Call 1300 22 46 36
• Lifeline: If you are feeling suicidal, or want to support someone who is, talk to a crisis counsellor now. Call 13 11 14. Helpline is open 24 hours/day

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The Parenting Couch is back for 2023! In the first episode of Season 2, Rachel and Sarah talk about their holidays and goals for 2023. We covered so many great topics with so many amazing guests in 2022. Don't forget to head back to past episodes if you haven't heard these yet.

If you are new to the podcast here is a little background on the co-hosts...

Rachel Chappell is the founder of Sydney parenting website, North Shore Mums. She0 lives on Sydney's upper north shore with her husband and three daughters (aged 7, 11 & 13). She started North Shore Mums Facebook group in 2012, when she moved to the area with lots of questions, but not many local friends to ask. A year later, she decided to take the Facebook group to the next level by launching the North Shore Mums website.

• Visit the North Shore Mums website
• Follow North Shore Mums on Facebook
• Follow North Shore Mums on Instagram

Sarah Levett, co-host of The Parenting Couch podcast. Sarah is a single Mum to her 9-year-old daughter. Sarah has spent much of her life treading the boards in many of Australia’s comedy clubs as a stand-up comic. She's hosted breakfast radio shows in Geelong and Newcastle, and also been on air for Nova 96.9 in Sydney. Recently, she's added marriage celebrant & wedding MC to her list of career credits.

Want to book Sarah as a celebrant or MC? Find out more by visiting her website, Facebook page or Instagram.

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Sarah and Rachel have recorded this episode as a live video as a Xmas special. They are very grateful to all the guests that have been on in 2022.  They announce the top 5 episodes for the season. Talk about what they love about this time of year too.  They are taking a break for a month or so and thank you, the listener for your loyalty to the podcast too. 

https://www.northshoremums.com.au/category/podcast/

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With Christmas only a few weeks away, now is the ideal time to declutter your children’s toys, to make way for new gifts from Santa! If you’ve been meaning to sort through the toys to donate or sell, Kristina Duke from Decluttering Diva is here to share her top tips about how to tackle the job.

In the latest episode of The Parenting Couch podcast, Rachel and Sarah sit down with Kristina Duke, Decluttering Diva, to find out how we can declutter our lives… so we can have a more simple and less stressful Christmas! In the episode, you’ll learn…

• How do we ‘declutter’ Christmas?
• Why it’s a good idea to declutter the toy room before Santa arrives
• Why you shouldn’t get rid of toys without consulting your child
• Where you can donate or sell your unwanted toys
• How to not get overwhelmed by lots of toys if your kids aren’t yet ready to let go
• Why it’s important to be specific with gift ideas for well-meaning relatives and friends
• How to organise a collection for a significant present (rather than lots of little ‘bits’)
• Why you need to declutter your Christmas calendar (you don’t need to go to EVERYTHING!)
• Why your kids don’t need as many gifts as you think

About Kristina Duke, Decluttering Diva

Kristina Duke is a North Shore Mums of three kids, and is the lead of organiser and founder of Decluttering Diva since 2013.

Since its inception Decluttering Diva has grown to a team of 6 professional organisers servicing clients with chronic disorganisation, hoarding disorder and/or ADHD issues across Sydney.

Kristina takes clutter seriously and has recently been accredited as NSW’s 1st Certified Professional Organiser in Chronic Disorganisation through ICD – a not for profit organisation that provides education and training to professional organisers and related professionals who specialise in working with the population affected by chronic disorganisation.

When she isn’t organising Kristina loves DIY projects in her home, op-shopping, and singing – hence the Diva name

Where to donate toys

• Local op shops
• Playgroups
• Preschools & daycares
• Local Public schools and their OOSH
• Peninsula Toy Recyclers
• Bikes For Life
• The Sewing Basket
• Local street library

Donate running shoes to Shoes 4 Planet Earth

Recylcing

• Thornleigh Community Recycling Centre Website
• Northern Sydney Community Recycling Centre Website

Where to sell toys

If your toys are still in excellent condition and you'd like to sell them, try Gumtree, Facebook Marketplace and other Facebook local Buy & Sell groups.

Essential Details: Decluttering Diva

• Contact: Kristina Duke
• Mobile: 0402 021 995
• Website
• Social: Facebook | Instagram

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Becoming a parent is the biggest change that we ever go through. Whilst it can be filled with joy, the perinatal period can come with increased anxiety, depression and other perinatal mental health issues that can often go undetected.

Arabella Gibson is the CEO of Gidget Foundation Australia - a not for profit that support expectant and new parents experiencing perinatal depression and anxiety. In this interview, she explains:

• The symptoms of post natal depression
• How do we know we’re not just sleep deprived, and it’s something more serious
• How parents can get into The Gidget House for counselling
• How The Gidget Foundation came into existence
• How The Gidget Foundation supports pregnant and new parents.
• The upgrade to Gidget House in North Sydney

Support Services

• PANDA: For immediate help contact PANDA on 1300 726 306. The PANDA National Perinatal Anxiety and Depression helpline is open Mon-Fri 9.00am to 7.30pm (AEST)
• Lifeline: 13 11 14. Helpline is open 24 hours/day
• Beyond Blue: 1300 22 46 36

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In this episode of The Parenting Couch podcast, Rachel and Sarah sit down with money guru Tom Haigh from My Money Sorted, who shares his top tips for not only saving money, but how we can use it to set us up for a more comfortable life.

Money determines the house we live in, the holidays we go on, the clothes we buy, the meals we make... and our general levels of comfort and stability. But we don't get taught this stuff in school!

Tom is a local Dad to three kids… who is passionate about putting money-matters into a way that is easy to understand. In the interview, Tom explains...

• Is it better to fix your home loan at the moment, or opt for a variable rate?
• Why you should speak to a mortgage broker to ensure you're getting the best rate
• Why right now it's a "buyers market" for real estate
• How to save money on day-to-day living expenses... should you be cutting back on the smashed avo, or reviewing your direct debits?
• How to manage credit card debt
• Why putting extra money into your superannuation is good for tax now, and good for your retirement!
• Why you need a clear plan to repay your debts before retirement
• Why putting additional repayments on the mortgage can be a phenomenal way to reduce the term of the home loan and also the the amount of interest you pay.
• How to 'enjoy the journey' and not just focus on money saving
• Why it's important to reward yourself daily with the small things (like a take-away coffee)

About Tom Haigh

Tom Haigh is a father of three who is passionate about putting money-matters in relatable, personal contexts. His goal is to help young families find the best path to living more and worrying about money less!

Tom co-founded My Money Sorted in 2021. Leveraging life experiences, Tom has written extensively about entrepreneurship, property investment, and various other investment-based topics and has been an active investor over the past 11 years.

His work has been featured in XY Adviser, news.com.au, Startup Success Story, and Hunter Headline.

Last year, Tom co-founded My Money Sorted… a website that provides Aussies with the right tools, insights and expert guidance to help you achieve your money goals.

Find out more about My Money Sorted.

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Shannon Johnson is a Sydney based personal stylist, speaker, educator, and style expert. Shannon founded Living For Style in 2013 after realising that there was a lack in the market for a stylist specialising in helping busy mums. Shannon empowers women to be the best versions of themselves through 1-on-1 styling services for her private clients as well as through her online learning platform, “In Style Membership". Shannon has partnered with North Shore Mums where she is the in house fashion blogger and also joined the team at Orana Fashion College as a Personal Fashion Styling teacher.

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This October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and local mum Laura Matrljan has an important message for all women. Laura was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of just 31 years old. She was a regular mum to two young boys, aged 2 and 4 years old, and found an unusual lump during a routine breast check. She shares her story and her important message to all women.

Every day, 57 Australians are diagnosed with breast cancer. It is the most common cancer for Australian women (excluding non-melanoma skin cancer). The good news is that survival rates continue to improve in Australia, with 89% of women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer now surviving five or more years beyond diagnosis.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, and we want to get women talking about breast cancer and, more importantly, checking their breasts or booking in for an examination or mammogram.

Early detection is vital. The sooner you find out you have breast cancer, the better your chance of survival.

Laura shares her story...

"I was diagnosed with breast cancer on 1 May 2015 and 20 days later, I was in surgery. I was 31 years old. Before my diagnosis, I was a regular mum of two active boys, 2 and 4 years old, doing regular mum things. I had a casual job, and looked after my family. I loved to cook, sew, and spend time with my friends having a wine and a giggle. Then, one day I was lying down in bed watching my iPad. I often checked my breasts (something my mother had drummed in to me from very early on) so I was very familiar with the look and feel of them. When I felt my breast that day, straight away I felt a small mass in my right breast. I had just finished my period and often found my breasts would get hard and sometimes lumpy during that time of the month, but this was different..."

Early detection of breast cancer is vital

Finding breast cancer early provides the best chance of surviving the disease. Remember you don’t need to be an expert or use a special technique to check your breasts.

Changes to look for include:

• a new lump or lumpiness, especially if it's only in one breast
• a change in the size or shape of your breast
• a change to the nipple, such as crusting, ulcer, redness or inversion
• a nipple discharge that occurs without squeezing
• a change in the skin of your breast such as redness or dimpling
• an unusual pain that doesn't go away.

Most changes aren’t due to breast cancer but it’s important to see your doctor without delay if you notice any of these changes. More information.

Know your lemons!

How well do you know your lemons? There are 12 symptoms of breast cancer. Know Your Lemons is an award-winning app that helps women learn about each symptom, calculate your personal risk, get a custom screening plan, learn how to self-exam, and get reminders to stay abreast of your health. Download the app.

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Commonly known as the ‘queen of common sense parenting’, Maggie Dent has become one of Australia’s favourite parenting authors and educators. She has a particular interest in the early years, adolescence and resilience, and is an undisputed ‘boy champion’.

Maggie’s experience includes teaching, counselling, and working in palliative care/funeral services and suicide prevention. Maggie is an advocate for the healthy, common-sense raising of children in order to strengthen families and communities. She is a passionate, positive voice for children of all ages.

Maggie is regularly featured on parenting blogs, podcasts and news sites, as well as being heard on commercial and ABC radio around the country. She also appears regularly on national TV. Maggie is the host of the ABC podcast Parental As Anything.

She is the author of nine major books, plus several other e-books and a prolific creator of resources for parents, adolescents, teachers, early childhood educators and others who are interested in quietly improving their lives.

Her books include the 2022 release Girlhood: Raising our little girls to be healthy, happy and heard, Parental As Anything (a book based on her podcast released in 2021), and her bestselling boys’ books From Boys to Men and Mothering Our Boys.

Maggie is the proud mother of four wonderful sons, and an enthusiastic and grateful grandmother. She lives in the South Coast region of NSW with her good bloke Steve Mountain and their dear little dog, Mr Hugo Walter Dent.

Maggie’s main books include:

• Girlhood: How to raise little girls to be healthy, happy and heard (2022)
• Parental As Anything: A common-sense guide to raising happy, healthy kids – from toddlers to tweens (2021)
• From Boys to Men: Guiding our teen boys to grown into happy, healthy men (2020).
• Mothering Our Boys: A Guide for Mums of Sons (2018)
• Real Kids in an Unreal World: How to Build Resilience and Self-Esteem in Today’s Children (2nd ed, 2017)
• Nurturing Kids’ Hearts and Souls: Building Emotional, Social and Spiritual Competency (rev ed 2010)
• Saving Our Adolescents: Supporting Today’s Adolescents through the Bumpy Ride to Adulthood (2010)
• Saving Our Children from Our Chaotic World: Teaching Children the Magic of Silence and Stillness (rev ed, 2009)
• 9 Things: A Back-to-Basics Guide to Calm, Common-sense, Connected Parenting Birth-8 (2014)

Maggie is an ambassador for Telethon in WA, a champion of the Telethon Kids Institute trust established 50 years ago to financially support the medical & social welfare of children and which funds research into children’s diseases. Maggie is also a proud ambassador for Smiling Mind a not-for-profit web and app-based meditation program dedicated to having mindfulness in schools.

Maggie is a patron of the Bold Park Community School in Perth, Peel Youth Services in Mandurah WA and the WA Association of Teacher Assistants (WAATA). She is an ambassador for The Sanctuary – The Hills Women’s Shelter in NSW.

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Do you feel guilty everytime you hand over the iPad so you can get a few things done around the house? Does it drive you mad that your son would rather play Fortnite than build a fort with the neighbour’s kids? Do you fret about how much time your teen spends with social media?

Or... are you so wary of technology that you enforce a strict no-devices policy? Do you avoid people and places where your child will have access to screens and you’re starting to feel a little socially isolated?

How do we know what’s harmful and what’s helpful? What’s the best approach? How do we navigate the digital dilemmas we face in the techno age to raise healthy, happy kids and teens?

Technology isn’t going away. It’s such a huge part of our lives that it can be difficult to know where to start. We know that too much can be harmful to a child’s or adolescent’s development, but how much is too much? We also know that screens can be a helpful learning aid in a child’s education, but where’s the line?

In this episode of The Parenting Couch podcast, Rachel and Sarah talk to Dr Kristy Goodwin about how we can best manage devices with our kids. The interview is packed with lots of sensible and practical advice about how we, as parents, can be the pilot and not the passenger of the digital plane.

About Dr Kristy Goodwin

Dr Kristy Goodwin is an award-winning researcher, speaker, author, and mum of 3 on a mission to help parents and educators raise happy, healthy children and teens who thrive online and offline.

As a researcher and educator herself, she’s spent most of her professional career researching and speaking about the ways in which technology shapes children’s and teens’ wellbeing, health, and learning. She provides research-based but realistic advice and strategies to teachers and parents on how they can teach their children to use technology in productive and purposeful ways without reverting to phone bans or constant digital detoxes.

She authored the book Raising Your Child in a Digital World and has conducted numerous evaluations and research studies for the New South Wales Department of Education and Communities. Prior to becoming a speaker and consultant, she worked as an educator for 14 years with schools in both the public and private sectors. She also lectured at Macquarie University and University of Notre Dame and have completed a PhD on the impact of digital technologies.
Offers

Digital Wellbeing Checklist

The Digital Wellbeing Checklist has all the tools you need to create healthy tech habits in your home.

Whether you love technology or loathe digital devices, your kids and teens will inherit a digital future. So ‘digital amputation’ isn’t a solution. Your child or teen needs to develop healthy and helpful digital habits so that they’re not a slave to the screen. As modern parents we need to help foster our kids’ digital wellbeing and that’s exactly what this Digital Wellbeing Checklist will do. Below you’ll find 20 research-based and realistic strategies to ensure that your child’s or teen’s digital habits are healthy and not harmful… so you can finally ditch your guilt, grief and guesswork as you raise a ‘screenager’. (Nudge, nudge. Many of these tips also work for adults too.)

• Free download! No code required.
• Click here to get the Digital Wellbeing Checklist

Switched on Parents Portal

Where empowered parents and carers come to find expert advice, simple strategies and peace of mind in the digital age.

• Get 20% iff with code: PARENTS
• Click here to find out more about the Parents Portal

InCharge Box

Get $25 off with code: DRKRISTY

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Got a fussy eater? Whether you've got a toddler or a teen, feeding kids can be stressful. As parents, we want our kids to eat healthy but we don't want mealtimes to be a battleground! Paediatric dietician Karina Savage is here to help.

Does your kid say "no" before you've even pulled dinner out of the oven? In this episode of The Parenting Couch podcast (brought to you by North Shore Mums), leading paediatric dietitian and gut health expert Karina Savage shares her tips and tricks to help mealtimes be a little less stressful, how to boost our gut health and immunity. As a mum of two young kids, Karina knows first-hand the struggles that parents face, and she's shares her practical tips for making feeding fussy eaters less stressful.

• How do. you encourage a fussy eater to try new food?
• Top tips to encourage a positive relationship with food
• Why you don't need to stress about kids not eating veggies at dinner
• How to feed a family when everyone has different food preferences
• What a 'learning plate' is
• How to know if you child really is just fussy... or if they are sensory averse or a super taster?
• How to know if your child is allergic to certain foods
• How to "food chain" technique to introduce new foods.
• The importance of a healthy gut for strong immunity
• What food you need to eat for a healthy guy, and what nutrients to take to support your immunity.

About Karina Savage

Karina is a mum of two and leading Paediatric Dietitian from Tricky Little Tummies. She has been helping families for 20 years and loves working with parents to take the stress out of feeding children, especially fussy eaters.

Karina’s passion for the gut has led her to become an Australian leader in the field. She is renowned for her knowledge in paediatric gut disorders and nutrition and regularly presents on this topic, together with providing expert comment to media. She is incredibly passionate about gut health, specialising in fixing tummy troubles, so that babies and children can live their best lives.

She loves sharing her knowledge to ultimately enhance the lives of our future generation.

Special Offer: 50% off Mealtime Bundle

Karina is offering North Shore Mums readers & The Parenting Couch listeners 50% off her Tricky Little Tummies Mealtime Bundle! Stop the daily dinner grind and stress of what to cook with Karina's easy healthy kids recipes, tried and tested with her own kids!

• Your book of 27 tried and tested recipes that kids love and also boost their nutrition and nutrient intake
• Pantry staples checklist with everything you need as the basis for healthy quick meals
• A 2-week meal plan for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks to take the stress and headaches out of deciding what’s on the menu!

Click here to view the bundle

• Promo code: NSM
• Discounted price: $7.47 (usually $14.95)

Tricky Little Tummies

• Website: trickylittletummies.com.au
• Follow: Facebook | Instagram

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Pinky McKay is inspired by her passion to see ‘every mother with a baby in her arms and a smile on her face'. Pinky is one of Australia’s most recognised and respected breastfeeding experts, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), and best-selling author of four parenting books.

Rachel and Sarah welcomed Pinky onto The Parenting Couch, to share her wonderful advice to new mums, with her beautiful compassion, humour and wisdom. The episode covers:

• How Pinky McKay became the parenting expert she is today
• Why it's important to 'parent by heart' and listen to your baby's needs
• How to know if you baby is breastfeeding properly
• Why pregnant mums should be educating themselves more about the baby than the birth!
• How to cope with frequent waking and sleepless nights
• When to introduce a bottle if you're breastfeeding
• How to know if you baby might be unsettled due to food sensitivities - and why citrus fruits could be to blame!
• Where to find a local lactation consultant if you are having troubles with breastfeeding.
• Boobie Foods - her lactation cookies, how they came about

Free E-Books from Pinky McKay

• Prepare to Breastfeed Like a Boss (Before You Have Your Baby)
• Making More Mummy Milk, Naturally

Essential Details

• Pinky McKay website
• Shop Boobie Foods!
• Facebook | Instagram

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Do you want your children to be more resilient? More brave? To not shy away from new situations? Kids are mighty, and they need to believe that they are too! Anxiety is a really normal human experience, and learning how to manage anxiety can strengthen children and teens to become courageous and resilient. In this episode of The Parenting Couch podcast, Karen Young from Hey Sigmund talks through how to help your child through anxiety.

In the latest episode of The Parenting Couch podcast, Rachel and Sarah talk to Karen Young about:

• Why anxiety isn’t a bad thing, and why we need anxiety to grow as a human
• Why it’s normal (and good!) that an anxious child can create anxiety in the parent
• Shares top tips for how you, as a parent, can support your child through anxiety
• Separation anxiety! Understand why clinginess happens, and how to stop it from holding your child
• How to stop anxiety stealing sleep in Kids and Teens

About Karen Young

Karen Young began her career as a psychologist and now consults with parents, schools, government bodies, and child and adolescent focused organisations both at home in Australia and overseas.

She is the founder of Hey Sigmund, an internationally popular online resource that provides contemporary, research-driven information on anxiety, parenting, and the neurodevelopment of children. She has written three books, including the bestselling Hey Warrior. The books have been translated into multiple languages and are used extensively in homes, schools, and therapeutic settings throughout the world.

Karen also a mum to two children and two stepchildren. Experience has taught her that people can do amazing things with the right information, psychology has something for everyone, jargon doesn’t, everyone has a story to tell, short bios are the longest to write, nobody has it all figured out and the best people to be around are the ones who already know this.

Books by Karen Young

Dear You, Love From Your Brain: Like all strong, beautiful, important things, brains take time to build. Along the way, children have an enormous capacity to influence the brain-building process in profound and enduring ways. First though, they need information that will help them perform their magic. This book will help children discover more about the brain – how it works, what it needs, and how to love it big so it loves them bigger. Buy on Booktopia.

Hey Warrior: Kids can do amazing things with the right information. Understanding why anxiety feels the way it does and where the physical symptoms come from is a powerful step in turning anxiety around. Anxiety explained, kids empowered. Buy on Booktopia.

Hey Awesome: If kids with anxiety could see their strengths, they would feel so much bigger than their anxiety. They would feel bigger than everything – as though a tiny, tip-toed stretch could have them touching the top of the world from where they are. This book is a reminder for all kids that everything they need to be brave, strong and brilliant is already in them. Buy on Booktopia.

Support Services

• Lifeline (Crisis support and suicide prevention): 13 11 14
• Beyond Blue: 1300 22 46 36
• Mensline: 1300 78 99 78
• Suicide call back Service: 1300 659 467
• National Indigenous Critical Response Service: 1800 805 801

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Buying property is the biggest investment you'll ever make, Whether you're looking to buy your first house, upgrade to something bigger or thinking about investing in property, knowledge is power. The more you know about it, the better you're going to do from it.

In this episode of The Parenting Couch podcast, we talk to Henny Stier from OH Property Group, who has been a Buyer's Agent in Sydney for many years, and has bought hundreds of houses on behalf of North Shore families. As a North Shore Mum to three boys and long-time member of the Facebook Group, she has been generously sharing her advice and recommendations on our website for the last 10 years.

Questions covered in the interview with Henny Stier

• How does a Buyers Agent help someone buy property?
• Why has Sydney property prices gone up so much?
• What are the big mistakes that people make when buying property?
• Is it worth getting a Building Report for every property you're interested in buying?
• What is a subpar property, and why do people buy them?
• Is it better to buy the worst house on the best street, or the best house on a bad street?
• What properties should you avoid?
• Is asbestos in a property a problem? Should you walk away?
• What should you do if the Building Report shows termite damage?
• How can you be less emotional and more rational and objective about buying a home?
• How do you put an offer in? And how do you know you're not offering too much or too little?
• Does it really matter if you overpay on a property that you plan to live in for 10-20 years?
• Should you believe a Real Estate Agent if they say they've had a higher offer?

About Henny StierHenny Stier is the founder and Principal Buyer at OH Property Group. A respected, straight talking property expert, Henny specialises in the search, analysis, appraisal, negotiation, bidding and purchase of properties across all price ranges throughout Sydney. She also has significant experience in building, renovating and managing properties. Having inspected thousands of properties, Henny is uniquely qualified to spot the best opportunities that others may miss and to give sound advice. Henny regularly appears in the media to discuss various real estate topics and to dispel myths in her typical no-nonsense style. She is a proud mum to three boys.

Visit OH Property's website
Follow OH Property on Facebook
Read testimonials in the North Shore Mums Directory

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In the latest episode of The Parenting Couch podcast, Rachel and Sarah talk to Phillip Heath, Head of Barker College, about how to choose a school for your child and why Barker made the transition to fully co-educational in 2022.

Choosing a school for your child is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make as a parent. There are many factors to consider… practical considerations like how close it is to where you live, public transport options, cost, where friends might be going, and before & after school care. There are also school factors to consider – the size of the school, facilities, religious affiliation, teaching philosophy, academic results, their approach to behaviour management, support for children with additional needs. You’ll also be wanting to consider how different schools might suit children’s personalities, strengths, needs and interests.

Another thing to think about is whether you choose a co-educational or a single sex school. For some, this can be one of the most important factors.

Phillip Heath achieved a First Class Honours degree in Reformation History and taught at Trinity Grammar School Sydney and King’s School Ely (UK), before becoming Deputy Head of The William Clarke College in Kellyville, and then Headmaster of St Andrew’s Cathedral School, Sydney, where he formed the Gawura Campus for Indigenous inner city children. Author of “Trinity, the Daring of Your Name”, and numerous journal articles, Mr Heath became fifth Principal of Radford College ACT in 2009 and the school received the Order of Australia Association (ACT) Award for Community Service twice under his leadership. He was made a Fellow of the ACT Branch ACEL in 2011 and in 2018 was awarded as a Member in the general division of the Order of Australia for his service to education and his commitment to creating greater opportunities for Indigenous students.

He was appointed as the Head of Barker College in 2014. In 2016 it was announced that the School would transition to be fully coeducational by 2022 with female students commencing in Years Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten in 2018, Year 3 in 2019 and Year 7 in 2020. In 2016 he formed the Darkinjung Barker Campus for Indigenous children on the Central Coast of New South Wales and in 2020 the Ngarralingayil Barker Campus for Indigenous children in the Hunter Region of New South Wales. In 2021, following the signing of an MOU with the Yothu Yindi Foundation, Dhupuma Barker commenced as a school for Indigenous children On Country in North East Arnhem Land.

Phillip has served on the NSW Board of Studies representing the Independent Sector (2000-2009) and is also a past National Chair of the Association of Heads of Independent Schools of Australia (2013-2015). He is currently working on an unpublished manuscript titled “One Life at a Time”, exploring his journey and work to create greater educational opportunities for Australia’s First Nations people.

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In the latest episode of The Parenting Couch podcast, Rachel and Sarah talk to Alison Brahe Daddo about her incredible journey. For Gen X women, Alison has been a big part of our lives... on the cover of Dolly as we were going through puberty and teen years... and now she is back to support us through that next big life stage of life, Menopause.

Once a household name, Alison was much loved nationally and grew up alongside a generation of Australians. Now, just like the rest of us, she’s all grown up and is now in her fifties. She’s also gone through menopause, an experience that she shares in her new book Queen Menopause: Finding your majesty in the mayhem.

Menopause changed Ali’s perspective on life, relationships and body image. It made her truly realise the implications of being silent, of speaking up, of consent, of boundaries and the importance of feeling, of being and of anger. She reveals how all the shifting and changing that menopause brings she found a new emerging sense of self and her life.

Buy Queen Menopause
Follow Ali Daddo on Instagram

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Got a daughter? Kaz Cooke, Author of Girl Stuff 8-12 years (and many other amazing life-stage books) shares her tips about how to guide your tween girl through body changes, periods as well as inappropriate comments from relatives. Throughout the episode, she emphasises the importance of normalising puberty, and that the experience and timing is different for all girls. And it's all normal.

Kaz says: "Do not let anyone in the family comment on your child's body changes. Do not let brothers and sisters tease each other. You need to have a very strong hard rule. Often family members who feel like they have a right to comment of girls bodies - Uncles, Aunts and often grandparents. They'll say 'oh you've put on weight', or there's a judgement built into "Oh you've shot up". It's astonishing that people in extended families might make comments like 'Oh, you're growing out the front now'. "

About Kaz Cooke
Kaz is your friend for life, her books helping generations of girls and women with their health and life stages. She constantly updates her books which have become classics, reassuring and entertaining more than two generations of Australians.

She began her career as a cadet journalist at The Age newspaper, and soon lurched into other areas, producing her cartoon strip Hermoine the Modern Girl; and the first of many columns and books. She still writes things, and talks in public and on the radio. And on the phone.

Kaz lives in Melbourne and often works in her pyjamas (usually without leaving the house). Her hobbies include reading, sewing in a straight line and shouting at the television news.

Kaz recommendsIn this episode, Kaz recommends the following documentary about body image:
Embrace is a social impact documentary by Taryn Brumfitt that explores the serious issue of body loathing, inspiring us to change the way we feel about ourselves and think about our bodies.

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Meet Sarah Levett, co-host of The Parenting Couch podcast. Sarah is a single Mum to her 9-year-old daughter. Sarah has spent much of her life treading the boards in many of Australia’s comedy clubs as a stand-up comic. She's hosted breakfast radio shows in Geelong and Newcastle, and also been on air for Nova 96.9 in Sydney. Recently, she's added marriage celebrant & wedding MC to her list of career credits.

FIND OUT MORE

• https://sarahmonialservices.com/
• https://www.facebook.com/Sarahmonial-Services-105321041268205/
• https://www.instagram.com/sarah_monial_services/

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Meet Rachel Chappell, co-host of The Parenting Couch podcast. Rachel lives on Sydney's upper north shore with her husband and three daughters (aged 7, 10 & 12). She started North Shore Mums Facebook group in 2012, when she moved to the area with lots of questions, but not many local friends to ask. A year later, she decided to take the Facebook group to the next level by launching the North Shore Mums website.

In this episode, Rachel shares the story about how North Shore Mums was created... as well as how she juggles work and family, dealing with sibling rivalry and the transition from primary school to Year 7.

FIND OUT MORE: 

• Visit the North Shore Mums website
• Follow North Shore Mums on Facebook
• Follow North Shore Mums on Instagram

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'A short, wonderfully readable and timely plunge into the ailments of the modern world, salved by deep insights into ancient wisdoms.' - David Leser, Author of Women, Men and the Whole Damn Thing
'A great read... will be warmly welcomed for the insights it offers.' - Abbie Cornish, Actor
'Healing, calming and empowering. Rachael and her work in this world are such a gift.' - Cassie Mendoza-Jones, Author of You Are Enough
Sometimes there is no other option than to fight. But where do we find the courage when we haven't any left?
Find Your Strength is a guide to becoming a warrior and thriving on the battlefield of life by actor, Play School presenter and award-winning writer Rachael Coopes. Introducing ancient wisdom in a fun and modern way, as well as sharing some inspiring personal survival stories, this witty, wise and practical manual will help you feel stronger and more invincible than you ever thought possible.

https://rachaelcoopes.com/
Insta: @rachaelcoopes

https://www.booktopia.com.au/find-your-strength-sensible-advice-to-prepare-yourself-for-life-s-battlefield-rachael-coopes/book/9781922626523.html?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIy7esqcPi9AIVmFVgCh2TxQ3cEAAYASAAEgIQ8PD_BwE

https://www.dymocks.com.au/book/find-your-strength-sensible-advice-to-prepare-yourself-for-lifes-battlefield-by-rachael-coopes-9781922626523

findyourstrength # lifetips #yoga #meditation #bestlife #newbook #Rachaelcoopes

Insta: @theparentingcouch
Facebook: The Parenting Couch
Website: www.theparentingcouch.com.au

Insta: @talkingalltopics
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/talkingalltopics/
Website: talkingalltopics.com
Email: info@talkingalltopics.com

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Kabba (Comedian) is a Dad to 4 kids. He tells his story of what happened when he had no choice but to deliver his own baby at home! Captivating and hilarious! You can follow Kabba using the below socials and find out where his next stand up gig is.

Facebook: KABBA MK
Insta @kabba_mk

Insta: @theparentingcouch
Facebook: The Parenting Couch
Website: www.theparentingcouch.com.au

Insta: @talkingalltopics
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/talkingalltopics/
Website: talkingalltopics.com
Email: info@talkingalltopics.com

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This week I am introducing you to the new podcast I have launched with my friend and former radio co-host, Jonno Lis. It is called Talking All Topics. This episode is on homeschooling. The pros, the cons, our thoughts, and everything in between. So many people have had a taste of what it could or would look like after months of online learning! See below for information on both podcasts. Thanks for listening, liking, and sharing!!

Insta: @theparentingcouch
Facebook: The Parenting Couch
Website: www.theparentingcouch.com.au

Insta: @talkingalltopics
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/talkingalltopics/
Website: talkingalltopics.com
Email: info@talkingalltopics.com

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Having her first baby just before the pandemic began, Actress Belinda Gosbee joins The Parenting Couch to talk about making her own movie and parenting. And then catching covid after being vaccinated. Very open and candid chat. #covid19#vaccine#hollywood#Mumlife

To check out Belinda's work www.belindagosbee.com

HELPLINES

Parentline in your state

Always ring 000 if in immediate danger or emergencies.

Support services have been listed below:

• Lifeline (Crisis support and suicide prevention): 13 11 14

-Beyond Blue: 1300 22 46 36

-Mensline: 1300 78 99 78

• Suicide call back Service:  1300 659 467

-National Indigenous Critical Response Service: 1800 805 801

• 1800RESPECT: (National sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling) 
  1800 737 732

• SAMSN:  Survivors & Mates Support Network (SAMSN):
  1800 472 676

Kids Helpline : 1800 55 1800

Relationships Australia: 1300 364 277

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Sally Hawach joined The Parenting Couch in 2020 to talk about her experience of being pregnant with COVID 19. One of the first people in Australia to contract the virus. She went on to deliver her baby and he is healthy. In fact, he was born with the antibodies. In a very open and honest chat, Sally shares the realities of living with LONG COVID. #covid19#longcovid#mumlife#3kidsunder3

Visit Sally and enjoy her business and career as an Art Therapist here.

www.sunshineco.com.au

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Kimberley Harper has been working with families for over 15 years, primarily with parents and foster carers.  With a background in Psychology (Education and Developmental), Kimberley has worked in family counselling settings, schools, youth services, and training facilitation roles. She has done this in both the government and non-government sectors.  Kimberley developed a passion for specifically working with parents over the years as she found that when parents feel supported, the entire family tends to do better.  Kimberley is also the mother to two vastly different boys, who amaze her, frustrate her, and fill her heart on the daily. #helpingparents#parentline#supportingkids

HELPLINES

Parentline in your state

Always ring 000 if in immediate danger or emergencies.

Support services have been listed below:

• Lifeline (Crisis support and suicide prevention): 13 11 14

-Beyond Blue: 1300 22 46 36

-Mensline: 1300 78 99 78

• Suicide call back Service:  1300 659 467

-National Indigenous Critical Response Service: 1800 805 801

• 1800RESPECT: (National sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling) 
  1800 737 732

• SAMSN:  Survivors & Mates Support Network (SAMSN):
  1800 472 676

Kids Helpline : 1800 55 1800

Relationships Australia: 1300 364 277

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I have wanted to have my Daughter on for a while now. We finally sat down together and had a chat. She is 8. And the love of my life. I always knew I wanted to be a Mum. I really didn't have an idea  (despite thinking I did) how incredible and challenging it would be. Best gig I have ever had. . :) x

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Abi Tucker has graced our screens for over 25 years. She is a Singer, Actor and Presenter. And talks about her latest project-Her Puppet show. She is an amazing Mum to two little girls. Such an open and easy chat with such a talented woman. For those in Sydney you can get tickets here. https://sydneyzoo.com/visit/abi-tucker

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The relationship with your body is so important. And as a parent how you model that is vital. Mine has been a roller coaster. Here is an opportunity to reflect and question this and the impacts. I am always working to show up raw and real so here I am. 

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Keen to explore how you balance parenting in 2020. With all the choices, devices, etc. What is better back then? 

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It'a a miracle. Sally Hawach contracted COVID whilst 7 months pregnant. A scary story but also a story of resilience and a miracle baby. 

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• Comedian and Dad Steve Philp has come up with hundreds of good ideas but finally he "pivoted" and it worked. He tells his inspiring story but also talks about his passions (Aboriginal and women's rights in particular). He is open and honest. And not afraid to bare all about his own very personal struggles.
• • Trigger warning* Depression, anxiety, racism & The stolen generation are talked about in this interview
• Lifeline (for anyone having a personal crisis) – call 13 11 14 or chat online, 24 hours
• Counselling Online (for anyone with a drug or alcohol problem) – call 1800 888 236 or chat online 24/7

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Simon Kennedy is such a warm, funny, humble man. Father, Husband, Comedian, Author, Voice Over artist. All round amazing bloke. How is he like this after experiencing tragedy starting at a young age. He opens up about this on The last episode for 2019.

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TRIGGER WARNING Part 2 of Kaiden and Janine's story. They are so open, honest and have been though so much. This is a subject that needs much more understanding and compassion around.HELPLINESAlways ring 000 if in immediate danger or emergencies.Other support services have been listed below:- 1800RESPECT (National sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling) – 1800 737 732- Suicide Call Back Service or call 1300 659 467- SAMSN Survivors & Mates Support Network (SAMSN) –1800 472 676- Lifeline (Crisis support and suicide prevention) – 13 11 14

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TRIGGER WARNING. THIS IS ME! 16 year old Kaiden shares his story of transitioning. From the depths of distress to hope again. This interview covers content including suicide, bullying and mental health. HELPLINESAlways ring 000 if in immediate danger or emergencies.Other support services have been listed below:- 1800RESPECT (National sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling) – 1800 737 732- Suicide Call Back Service or call 1300 659 467- SAMSN Survivors & Mates Support Network (SAMSN) –1800 472 676- Lifeline (Crisis support and suicide prevention) – 13 11 14

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Sally Singleton generously opens her home, heart and gives us insight into life as a Mum to 2 under 2. We also cover marriage, adoption, meditation, death of self. And we hear here first some exciting news!!

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Part 2-Jane de Graaff. Presenter, food and lifestyle writer for 9Honey joins me on the couch. Part 2 dives in deeper with Jane talking about love, loss, what she wants for her kids, why her marriage is a success and FOOOOOD!!

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Part 1 Presenter, food and lifestyle writer for 9honey, Mum, wife, lover of food, lover of life. Honest, warm, engaging. Everything is on the table as we talk marriage, pregnancy, birth and death. And food of course. She shares a wonderful way to look at food. And food with kids.

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Part 2. We chat Kids and technology, how therapy has helped their 28 + years marriage and the "mistakes" that were made along the way. Such an open, honest and raw conversation.

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Part 1- Australian golden couple Cameron Daddo and Alison (Brahe) Daddo are open, honest and real about their lives and what marriage and parenting is really like. With 3 kids 13 yrs + they share the losses and the wins of their parenting ride so far.

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Sydney Weekender presenter and stay at home Dad Matt Baseley joined The Parenting Couch for an honest chat about his role as primary care giver Dad, what makes his marriage work. How his mates feel about his role. And do you leave foil on or take it off the butter?

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TRIGGER WARNINGPART 2 - Mel WojtasMel is a survivor of domestic violence. She is courageous, strong, smart, resilient and determined. And especially determined to create a better future and story for her family, herself and her children.She is a survivor of domestic violence.TRIGGER WARNINGThis content has references to suicide, abortion, sexual assault, domestic violence and institutional child sexual abuse. And there is mild coarse language.Always ring 000 if in immediate danger or emergenciesSuicide Call Back ServiceCall 1300 659 467https://www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au/Survivors & Mates Support Network (SAMSN)Helpline 1800 4 SAMSN (72 676)https://www.samsn.org.au/Life line (Crisis support and suicide prevention)13 11 14https://www.lifeline.org.au/Blue Knot Foundation1300 657 380 (9am to 5pm (Sydney time) Monday to Sunday)Counselling, information and referrals, and telephone support.https://www.blueknot.org.au/National Redress Scheme – for people who have experienced institutional child sexual abuse1800 737 377https://www.nationalredress.gov.au/National support numbers and/or support with Redress:https://www.nationalredress.gov.au/…/national-redress-suppo…1800RESPECTNational sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling.1800RESPECT (1800 737 732)

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TRIGGER WARNINGPart 1 - Mel WojtasMel and I met a few years ago when we were both guests at a Share The Dignity event. This is Mel's story. She is courageous, strong, smart, resilient and determined. And especially determined to create a better future and story for her family, herself and her children.TRIGGER WARNINGThis content has references to suicide, abortion, sexual assault, domestic violence. And there is mild coarse language.Always ring 000 if in immediate danger or emergenciesSuicide Call Back ServiceCall 1300 659 467https://www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au/Survivors & Mates Support Network (SAMSN)Helpline 1800 4 SAMSN (72 676)https://www.samsn.org.au/Life line (Crisis support and suicide prevention)13 11 14https://www.lifeline.org.au/Blue Knot Foundation1300 657 380 (9am to 5pm (Sydney time) Monday to Sunday)Counselling, information and referrals, and telephone support.https://www.blueknot.org.au/National Redress Scheme – for people who have experienced institutional child sexual abuse1800 737 377https://www.nationalredress.gov.au/National support numbers and/or support with Redress:https://www.nationalredress.gov.au/support/financial-support/national-redress-support1800RESPECTNational sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling.1800RESPECT (1800 737 732)https://www.1800respect.org.au/

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Actress Jessica Napier joins The Parenting Couch to talk about going from the glamour of being on the screen to her greatest role yet-Mumma. Never mind reality TV, this interview is all about REALITY. The reality of having the picture perfect life. Or is it?

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In just 4 years Sam Wood went from being a bachelor on TV. To finding the love of his life, becoming a Step Dad, launching his online business, buying a house and now is a Dad to 2 under 3. Sam is very open about how he has managed to swim and not sink under all of these potential minefields.

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Play School presenter, Actress, yoga teacher, writer, Mum and story teller Rachael Coopes. A very honest and open conversation about what parenting is really like. How we need to connect more. And what it is like when you are on a kids TV show and YOUR kid melts down in public. The juggle is real!