Is everyone tired? It's getting to that time of year where everything starts to get a bit hard. It may be the last week of November but it feels like the year has been dragging and the silly season can bring out some season overwhelm. Annaliese and Tegan turn to Lauren Thornborough, co-founder of The Village—a network designed to empower and support parents—to explore how to manage the mental load and combat end-of-year burnout. Plus Sarah Marie solves a tricky dilemma on the school run. THE END BITS Join the Month of MOVE Get $30 off a Mamamia subscription and get unlimited access to our feel-good exercise app. Head here to get a yearly subscription for just $39. and use the code MONTHOFTGM Got a message for Sarah Marie? We’re listening! Send us a voice message, email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host: Tegan Natoli, Annaliese Todd and Sarah Marie Fahd With thanks to Lauren Thornborough from The Village. Producer: Grace Rouvray Audio Producer: Lu Hill Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you remember your favourite school teachers? And if you do, what made them so special? In this episode of This Glorious Mess from the archives, Holly Wainwright and Andrew Dado talk to finalist of Australia’s best teacher award, Rebecca West. We know teachers have it tough sometimes so Holly and Andrew ask as parents, what can we do to help? Plus, this week's parenting mentors question, what do you do when your child's a perfectionist? THE END BITS LINKS You can find keep up with Mrs West on her youtube channels, Clever Pickles (one for the kids) and Talkin' Chalk (one for the teachers). Swysh: Get your personalised video message from a Sports Star today at heyswysh.com GET IN TOUCH Feedback? We’re listening! Call the pod phone on 02 8999 9386 or email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au CREDITS Hosts: Holly Wainwright & Andrew Daddo Guest: Rebecca West Producer: Mikayla Floriano Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Just by reading our articles or listening to our podcasts, you’re helping to fund girls in schools in some of the most disadvantaged countries in the world - through our partnership with Room to Read. We’re currently funding 300 girls in school every day and we aim to get to 1,000. Find out more at mamamia.com.au Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s funny how we spend so much of life trying not to get pregnant, only to assume it will happen instantly when we’re ready—yet for many women, that’s not the case. Today’s Little Love Story is from Harrie Jack. She began her journey with optimism, but month after month brought disappointment. As friends started families, she wondered if they had quietly struggled too, feeling a pang of guilt for never asking. This love story explores the hurdles our bodies face, the courage to admit when things are hard, and the value of sharing those struggles while embracing joy in the present. You can read Harrie's full Little Love Story here. THE END BITS Tell us what you really think so we can give you more of what you really want. Fill out this survey and you’ll go in the running to win one of five $100 gift vouchers. Subscribe to Mamamia We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host & Producer: Grace Rouvray Guest: Harrie Jack Audio Producer: Lu Hill Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

No you're not losing it, science says that having a child changes your brain forever. Dr Golly is here to break down the reason you may cry at the news. Or feel overcome by emotions at the smallest things. It turns out that your amygdala, your brain’s emotional HQ, opens up a whole new range of emotions designed to help you care for your child. But it also starts to influence how you interact with the world around you... and guess what, its forever! THE END BITS Join the Month of MOVE Get $30 off a Mamamia subscription and get unlimited access to our feel-good exercise app. Head here to get a yearly subscription for just $39. and use the code MONTHOFTGM Got a message for Sarah Marie? We’re listening! Send us a voice message, email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host: Tegan Natoli, Annaliese Todd With thanks to Dr Golly & Thom Lion Producer: Grace Rouvray Audio Producer: Lu Hill Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you're an OG listener of This Glorious Mess, you’ll remember the original hosts, Holly Wainwright and Andrew Daddo. They launched this podcast back in 2015 when Holly’s kids were little and Andrew’s were teens, tackling all the chaotic, wonderful messes that come with young families. In this episode, Holly and Andrew are joined by radio host Jo Stanley to talk about encouraging kids in sports, especially girls in footy. PLUS, Holly has mysteriously similar handwriting to the Elf on the Shelf...and the Tooth Fairy. Funny, right? AND, would you pay $80,000 for a stranger to step into your home and tell you everything you're doing wrong? Tune in for a tough listener dilemma from the mom of a guilt-ridden vegan! THE END BITS Join the Month of MOVE Get $30 off a Mamamia subscription and get unlimited access to our feel-good exercise app. Head here to get a yearly subscription for just $39. and use the code MONTHOFTGM Got a message for Sarah Marie? We’re listening! Send us a voice message, email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host: Holly Wainwright, Andrew Daddo & Annaliese Todd With thanks to Jo Stanley You can buy Play Like a Girl here Producer: Grace Rouvray Audio Producer: Lu Hill Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is it a confession or deep respect to a parent who kills off Santa, The Tooth Fairy AND The Easter Bunny in just one conversation. We're leaning towards respect. Plus a mother who made the mistake of trying to enjoy herself at the beach with toddlers. You can share your best worst parenting stories by leaving us a voice note, email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au or for super shame super anonymous you can pop them in this form. THE END BITS Join the Month of MOVE Get $30 off a Mamamia subscription and get unlimited access to our feel-good exercise app. Head here to get a yearly subscription for just $39. and use the code MONTHOFTGM Tell us what you really think so we can give you more of what you really want. Fill out this survey and you’ll go in the running to win one of five $100 gift vouchers. We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host: Annaliese Todd & Stacey Hicks Producer: Grace Rouvray Audio Producer: Lu Hill Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Becoming a parent is undoubtedly one of the most life-changing experiences in the world. It’s full of unexpected surprises—both positive and challenging. It can also shift your sense of self in ways you might not anticipate, not only during those early months of sleepless nights and new routines but even years down the line. In this week’s episode, Annaliese and Tegan talk about the times they felt they lost their identity and the moments that helped them rediscover it. Plus, we check in on how parents around Australia are wrangling dinnertime! THE END BITS Join the Month of MOVE Get $30 off a Mamamia subscription and get unlimited access to our feel-good exercise app. Head here to get a yearly subscription for just $39. and use the code MONTHOFTGM Got a message for Sarah Marie? We’re listening! Send us a voice message, email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host: Tegan Natoli, Annaliese Todd Producer: Grace Rouvray Audio Producer: Lu Hill Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mamamia’s executive editors, Clare and Jessie Stephens, host The Baby Bubble, a parenting podcast with a twist that dives into the absurdity and hilarity of those early newborn days. Do they offer helpful advice? Not at all. Are they even trying? Definitely not. In this episode Clare and Jessie dish out some truly terrible travel advice. As seasoned parents with a few holidays under your belt, we're sure you’ll find it very relatable—and maybe even comforting! So sit back, relax, have a laugh and welcome to the baby bubble. THE END BITS Subscribe to Mamamia Listen to more episodes of The Baby Bubble here For your chance to win a $50 gift card, complete our survey here If you’re looking for something else to listen to why not check out our award winning parenting podcast How To Build A Human. Or click here to listen to the hosts of Mamamia Out Loud open up about creativity and how they stay inspired. CREDITS Hosts: Clare Stephens & Jessie Stephens Producer: Taylah Strano Audio Producer: Tegan Sadler Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Before you become “Mum” or “Dad,” you're just you—with a first name, a spontaneous social life, and the freedom to pursue your career ambitions with no limits, even if that means sometimes working 20-hour days. That was the life of today's guest, Bec Bignell, before she became a parent. Bec pushed herself to give 100% to both her career and her role as a parent, but eventually, the strain took its toll. Forced to pause, she reflected on the moments that truly brought her happiness and began to seek fulfilment on her own terms. Read Bec's full Little Love Story here. THE END BITS Tell us what you really think so we can give you more of what you really want. Fill out this survey and you’ll go in the running to win one of five $100 gift vouchers. Subscribe to Mamamia We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host & Producer: Grace Rouvray Guest: Bec Bignell Audio Producer: Leah Porges Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the festive season approaches—with Christmas just next month—you might have a group holiday on the horizon. Whether it’s extended family gathered in one house or a group of friends coming together for the school holidays, things can get a bit crowded and tense as everyone navigates different routines and parenting styles. Join Annaliese and Tegan as they get you prepped for the holiday, holiday season! Plus Sarah Marie solves an interesting housing dilemma. THE END BITS Join the Month of MOVE Get $30 off a Mamamia subscription and get unlimited access to our feel-good exercise app. Head here to get a yearly subscription for just $39. and use the code MONTHOFTGM Got a message for Sarah Marie? We’re listening! Send us a voice message, email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host: Tegan Natoli, Annaliese Todd & Sarah Marie Fahd Producer: Grace Rouvray Audio Producer: Lu Hill Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you a 'one and done' household? New data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics has shown a drop in the birthrate, a trend we've seen developing in recent years. But why are people opting to call it a day after one child? This week, Mamamia's news podcast The Quicky looked at the rise of the triangle family. Liked this episode of The Quicky? You can listen to these parenting and families episode: Daycare Deserts & Gaslit Parents: Is Childcare In Australia Working? 53 And Pregnant With Twins; The Boom In Ozempic Babies Why Is Every Girl Called Olivia? Baby Names Data Reveals our Favourites Skibidy Rizz Ohio? Gen Alpha Has Entered The Chat The Birth Trauma Report: Are We Finally Listening To Mothers? CREDITS Host: Claire Murphy With thanks to: Mark McCrindle, Principal & Founder of McCrindle Narayne, Parent of one child Executive Producer: Taylah Strano Audio Producer: Tegan Sadler Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week's Parents Anonymous dives into another three deliciously embarrassing confessions: a baby locked in the car sparks a lasting daycare shame, one parent confesses to dodging one-on-one time with their child, and childproofing materials prove smarter than the adults trying to navigate them. You can share your best worst parenting stories by leaving us a voice note, email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au or for super shame super anonymous you can pop them in this form. THE END BITS Enter Lazy Gewl Giveaways here! Tell us what you really think so we can give you more of what you really want. Fill out this survey and you’ll go in the running to win one of five $100 gift vouchers. We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host: Annaliese Todd & Stacey Hicks Producer: Grace Rouvray Audio Producer: Lu Hill Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Whether it’s dating or that colleague with the grating habit, we’ve all experienced “the ick”—but did you know parenting can reveal a whole new set of unexpected ones? In this episode, Annaliese and Tegan reflect on their own shameful “icks,” from old ones they’re not proud of to surprising new ones that have emerged since becoming parents. They also share how they’re working to keep these quirks from turning into full-blown red flags. Plus, we hear from parents across Australia on how they handle the ever-challenging dinner time routine! THE END BITS Enter Lazy Gewl Giveaways here! Or click here to listen to the hosts of Mamamia Out Loud open up about creativity and how they stay inspired. Got a message for Sarah Marie? We’re listening! Send us a voice message, email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Hosts: Tegan Natoli, Annaliese Todd & Sarah Marie Fahd With thanks to Michelle Fry Producer: Grace Rouvray Audio Producer: Lu Hill Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever heard of a therian? Not to be confused with a furry, the rise of children identifying as animals has left some parents with questions. Last week on our news podcast The Quicky, we looked at the world of therianthropy and how parents can learn to understand it. Liked this episode of The Quicky? Listen to these: Daycare Deserts & Gaslit Parents: Is Childcare In Australia Working? What It's Like To Raise Your Child As Neither A Girl Or A Boy Stop Saying My Child Doesn't Look Autistic: What Parents Of Neurodivergent Kids Want Us To Know A Review Of Uber Teen From A Child Safety Expert Want to try MOVE by Mamamia? Click here to start a seven-day free trial of our exercise app. GET IN TOUCH Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice note or email us at thequicky@mamamia.com.au CREDITS Host: Claire Murphy With thanks to: Deirdre Brander, Child Psychologist Executive Producer: Taylah Strano Audio Producer: Thom Lion Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Parenthood is life-changing, but for today’s guest, Anna Water-Massey, it came with both joy and deep loss. At 30, Anna became a mother to Cleo, and a year later, she lost her own mother to cancer. Despite the heartbreak, Anna shares the incredible bond she’s built with Cleo—a connection that continues to grow, especially now that Cleo has become a mother herself to baby Indigo. In this episode of Little Love Stories, Anna reflects on the powerful ties between mothers, daughters, and granddaughters, and how love can transcend even the hardest of times. You can read Anna's full little Love Story here. THE END BITS Tell us what you really think so we can give you more of what you really want. Fill out this survey and you’ll go in the running to win one of five $100 gift vouchers. Subscribe to Mamamia We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host & Producer: Grace Rouvray Guest: Anna Waters-Massey Anna's menopause skit here You can watch the viral TikTok pregnancy announcement here Audio Producer: Leah Porges Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Life can get hectic—between chores, work, and managing the mental load, it's easy for connection with your partner to slip down the priority list. Before you know it, you might find yourselves in the "roommate phase." In this episode, we explore the telltale signs of this phase and share tips on how to reconnect. We're also joined by a dad, who brings his own perspective on navigating the roommate dynamic in relationships. And to wrap things up, we leave you with a song that might just hit you right in the feels. You can read Bek Day's Mamamia article 'I coach married parents through the "roommate phase". Here's the 2 day experiment I swear by.' THE END BITS If you’re looking for something else to listen to why not check out our hilarious and seriously unhelpful podcast The Baby Bubble hosted by Clare and Jessie Stephens. Or click here to listen to the hosts of Mamamia Out Loud open up about creativity and how they stay inspired. Got a message for Sarah Marie? We’re listening! Send us a voice message, email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Hosts: Tegan Natoli, Annaliese Todd & Sarah Marie Fahd With thanks to Thom Lion Producer: Grace Rouvray Audio Producer: Lu Hill Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode, we uncover how a mystery rash is actually tied to last night’s dinner, a parent who’s taking "work from home" to a whole new level, and meet a mum who’s embracing sleep deprivation—for a surprising new reason. You can share your best worst parenting stories by leaving us a voice note, email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au or for super shame super anonymous you can pop them in this form. THE END BITS Tell us what you really think so we can give you more of what you really want. Fill out this survey and you’ll go in the running to win one of five $100 gift vouchers. Subscribe to Mamamia We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host: Annaliese Todd & Stacey Hicks Producer: Grace Rouvray Audio Producer: Lu Hill Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Did you know that even having just one child could reduce your super by almost $100k? It's a staggering statistic that highlights the "mum tax" women face all the way into retirement. In this week’s episode, we break down the numbers behind "mum math" and share how to secure your finances—not in a dry, boring way, but in a way that makes sense for everyone. Promise! Plus, we've got some helpful tips from finance guru Canna Campbell! THE END BITS If you’re looking for something else to listen to why not check out our hilarious and seriously unhelpful podcast The Baby Bubble hosted by Clare and Jessie Stephens. Or click here to listen to the hosts of Mamamia Out Loud open up about creativity and how they stay inspired. Got a message for Sarah Marie? We’re listening! Send us a voice message, email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host: Tegan Natoli, Annaliese Todd & Sarah Marie Fahd With thanks to Canna Campbell and Yvette Bay Producer: Grace Rouvray Audio Producer: Lu Hill Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever felt that instant spark of friendship with someone new? That’s exactly what happened when comedian Damian Callinan met Cal Wilson in the early 2000s. In this episode of Little Love Stories, we remember the vibrant Kiwi comedian, Cal Wilson, who passed away nearly a year ago. Damian reflects on their friendship, their collaborations on shows like Skit House, and the honour of being the MC at both her wedding and funeral— a role he describes as among the most important in his life. Despite the pain of losing her, Damian shares the joy of hearing other people's "Cal Wilson Moments" that help keep her memory alive. You can read Damian's full Little Love Story here. THE END BITS If you’re looking for something else to listen to why not check out our hilarious and seriously unhelpful podcast The Baby Bubble hosted by Clare and Jessie Stephens. Tell us what you really think so we can give you more of what you really want. Fill out this survey and you’ll go in the running to win one of five $100 gift vouchers. Subscribe to Mamamia We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host & Producer: Grace Rouvray Guest: Damian Callinan Audio Producer: Leah Porges Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you remember when magazines were packed with weight loss stories, "heroin chic" goals, and how a size 12 woman was considered "big"? Today, Annaliese reflects on the media that shaped our childhood and how social media now plays the same role for kids today. Which is worse, and how can we protect our kids from it? Plus Sarah Marie solves a generational battle and we hear how Aussie Mum's are wrangling their dinner time. THE END BITS If you’re looking for something else to listen to why not check out our hilarious and seriously unhelpful podcast The Baby Bubble hosted by Clare and Jessie Stephens. Or click here to listen to the hosts of Mamamia Out Loud open up about creativity and how they stay inspired. Got a message for Sarah Marie? We’re listening! Send us a voice message, email us at tgm@mamamia.com.au We’ve compiled all the best resources for new mums in a free newsletter. Join the mailing list. CREDITS: Host: Tegan Natoli, Annaliese Todd & Sarah Marie Fahd Producer: Grace Rouvray Audio Producer: Lu Hill Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.