Ever wondered how to survive the chaos of multi-generational living and get along harmoniously with your In-Laws? For Episode 4 of Up Past Bedtime, join Adrian and Bella, as they pull back the curtain on the good, the bad, and the hilarious of blending family lives under one roof. Listen in as we explore the financial and emotional intricacies of multi-generational living, discussing the delicate balance of sharing expenses and setting respectful parenting boundaries. The support we receive from our family network is something we don't take for granted, and we're diving into the stories that showcase both the positive and the challenging aspects of this arrangement. We also shed light on how these shared experiences resonate with our audience, offering an alternative perspective on the value of community support in family life. Feel like you're the only one navigating the minefield of in-law interactions!? Don’t worry! Join us for a no-holds-barred discussion as we delve into some of our own listeners' HORROR In-Law experiences. We weigh in on the deep emotional journeys some of our listeners have shared, from dealing with toxic Mother in-laws to the heartbreak of pregnancy loss. We laugh, empathise, and sometimes cringe as we recount tales of your family dynamics. (05:50) - Living With Our in-Laws Our unique living situation with Adrian's parents in a dual home arrangement gets explained, highlighting the independence and mutual respect that makes it work for us. (16:37) - Family Financial Dynamics and Support We discuss the nuances of multi-generational living, particularly in the context of the financial benefits and dynamics within a family. We explore the concept of sharing expenses and responsibilities without keeping a meticulous score, fostering a sense of unity and support rather than division. (22:53) - Positive Family Relationships We explore the close and accepting relationships we have with each other's families, We discuss how we've managed to navigate any conflicts that have arisen, emphasising our fortunate position compared to some challenging family dynamics shared by listeners. (33:02) - Our Listener In Law Horror Stories We open the floor to our listener - sharing a huge range of In-Law Horror stories and give our insight on how we would handle a similar situation! Up Past Bedtime is a podcast putting the P back in pillow talk; broadcasting the after-hours conversations of parents! Join the husband and wife duo, Bella & Adrian Messina, for weekly unfiltered discussions that explore the rollercoaster ride of relationships/marriage after kids while navigating the challenges and triumphs of parenting today. UPB Socials: Instagram: @uppastbedtimepodcast Tik Tok: @uppastbedtimepodcast Facebook Community: Here Watch on Youtube: Here Or Email Us: upbpod@messinaco.com Bella’s Socials: Instagram: @bellsmessina Tik Tok: @bellsmessina Adrian’s Socials: Instagram: @adrianmessina Tik Tok: @itsyaboyado

Ever wonder how couples navigate the seismic shifts in their relationship after the stork drops off a bundle of joy? On Episode 3 of Up Past Bedtime, join us in an intimate discussion about the transformation of our partnership in the face of parenthood. From the comedic trials of late-night settling sessions to the profound discussions on upbringings and conflict styles, we unpack the complexities of keeping the discourse to a minimum amidst the pitter-patter of little feet. This week, we’re lifting the veil on our own relationship and parenting strategies, laying out the successes and stumbles with humour. Striking a balance between couple time and family time, we rate the current state of our marriage, sharing the strategies that have helped us rediscover our spark. Our conversation also explores how our distinct upbringings and conflict styles affect our relationship and parenting approach. We discuss the blend of a matriarchal background with one where male figures were more prominent, and how these perspectives influence everything from daily decisions to the way we confront challenges and support each other through them. (13:26) - Challenges of Parenting on Relationships: We open up about the unexpected challenges that have surfaced in our relationship since becoming parents. We reflect on the intense struggle to maintain communication and find time for each other amidst the demands of raising children and managing a hectic work schedule. (22:52) - Navigating Differences in Relationships: We open up about the unexpected challenges that have surfaced in our relationship since becoming parents. We reflect on the intense struggle to maintain communication and find time for each other amidst the demands of raising children and managing a hectic work schedule. Book Mentioned by Bella: Fair Play by Evie Rodsky (29:11) - Navigating Different Upbringings and Conflict Styles: We explore the impact of personal backgrounds on relationships, as I recount the story of my parents' fast-tracked engagement and subsequent tumultuous divorce, and its traumatic effect on me and my siblings. We consider how these experiences shape our views on relationships, with me bringing insights from a matriarchal, female-dominated upbringing and contrasting it with your experience in a family where male figures were present and no divorces occurred. (39:48) - Answering your questions! Bella's recommendation of the week: @nakedharvestsupplements Pure Collagen (Affiliate DC: BELLSMESSINA) Adrian's recommendation: Seeded mustard lol Up Past Bedtime is a podcast putting the P back in pillow talk; broadcasting the after-hours conversations of parents! Join the husband and wife duo, Bella & Adrian Messina, for weekly unfiltered discussions that explore the rollercoaster ride of relationships/marriage after kids while navigating the challenges and triumphs of parenting today. UPB Socials: Instagram: @uppastbedtimepodcast Tik Tok: @uppastbedtimepodcast Facebook Community: Here Watch on Youtube: Here Or Email Us: upbpod@messinaco.com Bella’s Socials: Instagram: @bellsmessina Tik Tok: @bellsmessina Adrian’s Socials: Instagram: @adrianmessina Tik Tok: @itsyaboyado

Hello, Night Owls! Welcome back to Up Past Bedtime… Join us this episode as we open up about our experiences with conception, pregnancy complications, and managing hyperemesis gravidarum; you'll hear the highs and lows that have shaped our family life. From the emotional anticipation of a potential pregnancy with our first child, Rosie, to the overwhelming trials of severe morning sickness (Hyperemesis Gravidarum) that disrupted our everyday life. We reflect on the support we found in each other and the joy of welcoming new life into our world, all while keeping the gender a surprise – an experience we cherish and recommend to all expectant parents. The conversation doesn't shy away from the tougher moments either. Listen as we recount the unexpected labour progression and emergency C-section that brought our child into the world, the subsequent traumatic birth recovery, and the breastfeeding struggles that followed. We share the pursuit of healing through a VBAC attempt, the contrasting birth experiences with our children, and the importance of partner support during postpartum. Tune in for an honest, heartfelt discussion that any parent or parent-to-be can relate to and find comfort in. (05:40) - Journey to Conception and Motherhood The intimate journey of our children's births, the pressure to conceive quickly, mental health challenges, and our “surprise” pregnancy. (17:54) - Pregnancy Complications Bella’s battle with hyperemesis gravidarum, delayed diagnosis and treatment, coping with daily vomiting and how we were supported by others during this time. (33:41) - Unexpected Labour Progression and Emergency C-Section Our raw experiences of early labour, managing contractions, developing preeclampsia, and the decision to get an epidural. (44:49) - Traumatic Birth Recovery and Breastfeeding Struggles Rosie’s traumatic birth experience, challenges faced during and after C-section, struggles with bonding and breastfeeding & our perseverance through difficulties. (48:52) - The Rollercoaster of a VBAC The unexpected emotional journey after our first birth, seeking validation and understanding, complexities of VBAC, and unexpected challenges in Bennie’s labour. (59:05) - Our Recommendations of the Week Adrian’s Weekly Recommendation: Mint Choc Chip Ice-Cream Bella’s Weekly Recommendation: Blood & Steel by Helen Scheuerer available on Kindle Unlimited Up Past Bedtime is a podcast putting the P back in pillow talk; broadcasting the after-hours conversations of parents! Join the husband and wife duo, Bella & Adrian Messina, for weekly unfiltered discussions that explore the rollercoaster ride of relationships/marriage after kids while navigating the challenges and triumphs of parenting today. UPB Socials: Instagram: @uppastbedtimepodcast Tik Tok: @uppastbedtimepodcast Facebook Community: Here Watch on Youtube: Here Or Email Us: upbpod@messinaco.com Bella’s Socials: Instagram: @bellsmessina Tik Tok: @bellsmessina Adrian’s Socials: Instagram: @adrianmessina Tik Tok: @itsyaboyado

Hello, Night Owls! Welcome to Up Past Bedtime... Let's introduce you to your hosts, Bella & Adrian Messina. Join us during Episode 1 as we stroll down memory lane, reliving the charming, albeit unexpected, romance that blossomed between a bagel shop girl and a barber with a flair for eyebrow piercings. We dish on the ups and downs that eventually led to love, and how our bond has evolved into a family of four. It’s not all nuptial near-misses and parenting pratfalls though! We're also teasing out what's in store for you as we embark on this new audio adventure. (00:04) Up Past Bedtime Parenting Podcast An introduction to the Up Past Bedtime Podcasts and your two hosts. (12:39) Unexpected Love Story Bella and Adrian's love story, from their first encounters to marriage with two children, including persistence, friendship, and a memorable first date. (21:09) Unexpected Proposal and Wedding Delays A rollercoaster of emotions leads to a surprise proposal, with a misunderstanding and postponement due to COVID-19. (32:08) Exciting Podcast Plans and Recommendations Marriage, parenthood, bonus episodes, cozy recordings, studio transformations & weekly recommendations Adrian’s Weekly Recommendation: Dune 2 in cinemas now Bella’s Weekly Recommendation: “The Empress” on Netflix Up Past Bedtime is a podcast putting the P back in pillow talk; broadcasting the after-hours conversations of parents! Join the husband and wife duo, Bella & Adrian Messina, for weekly unfiltered discussions that explore the rollercoaster ride of relationships/marriage after kids while navigating the challenges and triumphs of parenting today. UPB Socials: Instagram: @uppastbedtimepodcast Tik Tok: @uppastbedtimepodcast Facebook Community: Here Watch on Youtube: Here Or Email Us: upbpod@messinaco.com Bella’s Socials: Instagram: @bellsmessina Tik Tok: @bellsmessina Adrian’s Socials: Instagram: @adrianmessina Tik Tok: @itsyaboyado

We’re putting the P back in pillow talk; broadcasting the after-hours conversations of parents! Join the husband and wife duo, Bella & Adrian Messina, for weekly unfiltered discussions that explore the rollercoaster ride of relationships/marriage after kids while navigating the challenges and triumphs of parenting today.  We’re looking into the relatable, the honest, the unexpected and everything in between. Pull up a metaphorical blanket and get ready for some sleep deprived, real-talk... because after all, the best conversations happen when you’re up past bedtime.