This week we’re joined by Lauren Patterson who is the mum-of-two behind Mad Max Mum. She opens up to us about how her daughter saved her life and the battle she faced with postnatal depression after the birth of both her babies. Lauren and Mel also share why co-parenting can sometimes be pretty sh*t.Plus, should you lick your newborn after giving birth? Some mums do, but Cassie says it's just not hygienic for anyone involved.And, do you know how to spot the symptoms of the most common daycare bu...
Jul 25, 2018•28 min
You probably want to pay attention when someone who's cooked for some of Australia's best chefs offers you culinary advice. Especially when what he's saying makes so much sense.I mean, it's 2018, it's more than time for dads to step up in the kitchen department. Especially, as Aaron Harvie points out, it can have such a huge impact on our kids' attitudes toward food.And save you time and money.Give the vino a missIf you're tempted to indulge in a few glasses while dad's busy in the kitchen, Anna...
Jul 18, 2018•29 min
From the outside, motherhood looks pretty rosy. Think of every ad you’ve ever seen of a mum cheering madly at the sidelines or turning around just in time to catch those first shaky steps. Or smiling serenely while serving dinner to her waiting family.Sadly, once you have kids, that idyllic bubble bursts pretty quickly. Instead, you get an onslaught of nappies, projectile vomiting and 4am wake-up calls. Being a mum is often harder than you ever could have expected. But that’s what makes those mi...
Jul 11, 2018•26 min
As parents, we're used to giving things up - sleep, time, privacy, the list goes on. But Yumi Stynes might just have made the ultimate parenting sacrifice.This week on The Juggling Act, the radio host shares the staple she's given up in the name of getting everything done. Look, we never said that being a parent would be easy.The mum-of-four also dishes up the recipes guaranteed to be winners with the kids. It’s reassuring to know that even a cookbook author struggles to get the kids to eat vegg...
Jul 04, 2018•27 min
He's the man in the spotty vest who can turn a paper plate into an epic work of art.Mister Maker joins us this week to reveal the biggest hazard of his job and share the surprising place he keeps his craft. Need an indoor activity to get you through the school holidays? Resident movie-buff Giles Hardie explains why Hotel Transylvania 3 is a must-see. And we chat child-free weddings, mum-tums and whether play centres are sanity savers or actual parenting hell. Tune in!SHOW NOTES Your hosts ...
Jun 27, 2018•26 min
This week we're joined by child psychologist Michelle Karavas, who is here to help us teach our kids to to manage their anger. She's got some great tips to help your hot-tempered little one cool down quick. Plus, we're all guilty of burying our heads in the sands when it comes to uncomfortable issues like refugees and asylum seekers. It's time to stop hiding from the issue and start listening. In honour of World Refugee Day, we spoke to Syrian Refugee Joel on what it was like living in a war zon...
Jun 20, 2018•30 min
Fitness guru Tiffiny Hall is pretty damn tough. But she says even the most gruelling workout doesn't compare to the challenges of motherhood.This week, she opens up about her rocky pregnancy and the beautiful moment she held her son Arnold for the first time. Meanwhile, Mel battles the Mum Flu, Giles admits he's a terrible tooth fairy and Cassie has come to accept that NITS are now a part of her everyday life...Plus, it's been 14 years in the making but The Incredibles are back to save the day.T...
Jun 13, 2018•28 min
Self-proclaimed 'Mother of Chaos' Madeleine West admits she never wanted a big family.This week, she reveals how she 'accidentally' became a mum-of-six and the one little thing that keeps her sane through it all.She also shares the inspiration behind her new book series Lily D, V.A.P.And we're joined by the hilarious Kristen Toovey to chat about embracing her single mum status. Hello Tinder!Plus, should we celebrate our post-birth baby bumps? Controversial blogger Constance Hall says hell yeah w...
Jun 06, 2018•28 min
Journalist Elle Halliwell found out she was pregnant with her first child just a couple of days after receiving a devastating cancer diagnosis.Elle joins us to talk about how she faced making the decision no parent should have to make. Should she end the pregnancy or delay treatment?Plus, for too long, family violence has been 'none of our business'.But we're making it ours.We speak with a brave mum about how she and her son survived domestic abuse.And discuss what you can do if someone you know...
May 30, 2018•29 min
TV presenter, journalist and mum-of-one Phoebe Burgess knows motherhood can be as exhausting as it is incredible. This week, she opens up about parenting in the public eye and shares the heartbreaking moment she knew she had to ask for help.Plus, why is it still so hard to talk about addiction? Thousands of Australian families are dealing with the pain of alcohol and drug addiction, Courtney Rothberg's family is one of them. Courtney opens up to us about discovering her husband's ice addiction a...
May 23, 2018•30 min
After five years, endless doctors appointments and three heartbreaking miscarriages, Liz Ellis is one mamma who knows how real the IVF struggle can be. But she says between cervical mucus and 'state-sanctioned wanks' there's a few laughs to be had too. Now, she's sharing her story in her new book, If At First You Don't Conceive. The mum-of-two and former netball champ joins us in the studio to reveal what kept her going through it all. Plus, flu season is upon us, people! So Dr Sam Hay gives us ...
May 16, 2018•31 min
Bec Judd admits that raising four kids can be totally chaotic.And while it's left her in a few umm, sticky situations, she wouldn't change a thing.The model, TV host, and author has shared her parenting story in her new book The Baby Bible and she joins us this week to chat all things mum life. Also, have you seen Charlize Theron's gritty new film, Tully? Find out why Mel wouldn't recommend it to pregnant women. Plus, we discuss some controversial new advice on boys and daycare and whether it's ...
May 09, 2018•27 min
Olivia White is a mum-of-two and founder of the hugely successful blog House Of White.This week, she reveals how she stayed sane during the first 12 months of this crazy parenting thing. And she shares the little moments that made it all worthwhile. Plus, getting your head around health insurance is about as much fun as a dealing with a toddler tantrum - luckily, Finder.com.au money guru Bessie Hassan has got you covered. She explains how to cut through the jargon and really get the most out of ...
May 02, 2018•30 min
From nappy rash to gastro and the odd lego piece up the nose, the first 12 months of mum life can be pretty stressful. But CPR Kids' Nicole Ovens says we need to learn to trust our instincts. She joins us in the studio to chat common health issues, baby first aid and when to go with your gut. In news this week, one mum has asked the internet for advice on confronting her MIL and we discuss 'man-proofing' your finances. And do you need help keeping the spark alive? Psychotherapist Melissa Ferrari...
Apr 25, 2018•29 min
When single mum-of-three Kerri Sackville started dating again after a long marriage and a painful breakup, she admits she made every mistake possible. From excruciating dinner dates to fakers and fruitless texting, she's shared her experiences in her new book Out There: A survival guide for dating in midlife. She joins us in the studio with her hilarious and brutally honest take on life in the dating world. In news this week one mum has been slammed for giving her kid a peanut butter sandwich in...
Apr 18, 2018•32 min
Parenting is a tough gig. But when doctors discovered Melinda Hildebrandt's daughter was deaf at age two and autistic just a couple of years later, things got even harder. Melinda joins us in the studio to share her honest and inspiring story and reveals how writing about her journey, helped her heal. This one's left us a little confused. A woman has lost a friend after inviting a mum and her child on a playdate and failing to foot the bill. So are you coughing up when you organise a catch-up? P...
Apr 11, 2018•30 min
Once you've got some kids in the mix, juggling your $$$ can be pretty damn tricky. So this week single mum and finance guru Canna Campbell shares her tips for budgeting and getting started in the intimidating world of investing. Hallelujah!When she split from her partner she was determined to manage on her on, so set herself the goal of saving a $1000 at a time. Even she was surprised by how much she had saved at the end of the year.Meanwhile, Mel braves the Royal Sydney Easter Show, Giles overs...
Apr 04, 2018•31 min
Michelle Bridges is a lot of things; personal trainer, TV host, author. But perhaps her most important role is mum to adorable toddler Axel. She joins us this week to chat about how her body and her attitude have changed since having a kid.And she reveals her ONE weakness when it comes to food. Yep, she's only human!MAFS has only just wrapped but the stars are still causing controversy. Tracey has revealed she's moving from Perth to Melbourne with her new partner and leaving her daughter behind....
Mar 28, 2018•27 min
There's no getting around it, co-parenting is hard work!This week on the podcast TV host and dad of one Kris Smith, shares his own experiences on co-parenting with his ex-partner Danni Minogue. He also shares the incredible first moment he met his gorgeous son Ethan, and how the whole experience gave him a new respect for women. We're also joined by Married at First Sight superfan, Bek Day who talks about how her MAFS addiction is negatively affecting her own relationship and discusses studies s...
Mar 20, 2018•31 min
There's ONE thing all parents have in common. They are very, very tired. But Dream Start Baby founder and sleep expert Steph Gouin is here to save the day. She joins The Juggling Act with tips that will have both you and your bub snoozing in no time. Let's be real. For some women, birth can be traumatic. It can even cause PTSD. So would talking about it more openly help new mums heal? And if you've ever been stuck in a hospital bed for long periods you'll understand the true horror of the entert...
Mar 14, 2018•22 min
What a day it's been! Proud dad and star of Giggle & Hoot Jimmy Rees chats bedtime routines and maintaining that famous 'Giggle' voice. He also reveals how he deals with attention from his older fans - mums, we're looking at you! This week, Cassie's kids got a taste of our national coat of arms. Literally. And Mel found out the hard way that her daughter hasn't been eating her lunch...Eww. GULP! It's the conversation every parent dreads. But while most of us fumble our way through it, one co...
Mar 07, 2018•24 min
Radio host and podcaster Ryan Jon was adopted at birth and went viral after releasing a mother's day video dedicated to his birth mum.In this episode, he shares his biggest fear about finding her and ponders whether he is ready to be a father himself. Mel Wilson reveals her daughter is already being teased just three weeks into her first year of school. How would you handle it? Plus, a Kidspot mum opens up about a VERY painful poo problem and the crew discuss the arguments all new parents have (...
Feb 28, 2018•26 min
Brad Kearns AKA DadMum has a refreshingly honest approach to parenting and relationships. This week, he opens up about the heartbreak of losing a child, what drove him to be a better dad and the one thing that is off the table when it comes to his blog. Meanwhile, Giles discovers the subtle differences between daycares and Mel's son has learnt how to escape from his cot. FRESH HELL.Plus, a mum-of-two young girls who is battling ovarian cancer shares the story of her diagnosis and how she pl...
Feb 21, 2018•30 min
Jane Flemming is a former Olympian, mum of twins and breast cancer survivor. In this episode, she opens up about her double mastectomy and explains why 43 was the perfect age to start a family. She also jokes about teaching her boys to to 'run like a girl' and shares the beautiful advice she received on talking to your kids about cancer. Meanwhile, Mel discovers being a new school mum is HECTIC, Cassie is shocked by her daughter's book choice and Giles has found the perfect 3rd birthday ven...
Feb 14, 2018•26 min
The effects of bullying can be devastating. But as a parent, it can be hard to know how to protect your children. Part of an anti-bullying campaign by Kidspot Cares, in this special episode of The Juggling Act two experts share their advice on how best to tackle the topic. Psychologist Belinda Williams reveals how to recognise the signs of bullying.And You Can Sit With Me founder Sophie Whitehouse explains how a simple wristband can change a life. Plus, the crew chat Tom Brady kissing controvers...
Feb 07, 2018•28 min
This week fitness guru Steve 'Commando' Willis explains how the last 18 years of dad life have changed him for the better. We wanted to know how he juggles four kids under 18 and he reveals the best ways to keep your kids fit and active. Meanwhile, Cassie explains why she was forced to call a family meeting and Giles shares the hilarious way he caught up with his son after an overseas trip. Would you leave your toddler alone so you could have a nap? One mum says it's just not on.Plus, the team c...
Jan 31, 2018•22 min
It's just one week until the 2018 school year kicks off. But before you freak out, listen up! In this episode of The Juggling Act, the team chat to four incredible mums who will help you navigate the chaos of uniforms, lunchboxes and back-to-school nerves. Veteran teacher Caroline Doolub explains how to best prepare your kids for the transition to big school. While Maraya Bell of Stuff Mums Like has the lowdown on routines, screens and getting them out the door on time. Psychologist Tawna...
Jan 24, 2018•36 min
The poddy crew is back for another year of parenting hails and fails! This week they're joined by the inspirational Julia Hasche from Single Mother Survival Guide, who shares her tips for tackling life as a single mum.In news this week, researchers have concluded that baby brain is REAL. Thanks science, but we didn't need a study to prove that one. Just ask Mel Wilson who nearly burnt down her house at 8 months pregnant! Ever been stuck next to a newborn on a flight? One woman explains ...
Jan 17, 2018•27 min
Grab your Christmas leftovers and get ready to relive The Juggling Act's most inspirational, hilarious and ahhh, memorable, moments! From chicken-poxed vaginas to brutally honest mum moments, the poddy crew reminisce on the best of the year that was. The team will be back in 2018 with even more good stuff to help you through this insane little journey called parenting. Until then, have a chilled-out summer and a wine-filled New Year! Over and out! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy informat...
Dec 27, 2017•11 min
GULP! The first day of school is approaching and Mel is more nervous than her daughter. So, Giles and Cassie share some primary-school-parent wisdom! They are joined by model and mum-of-three Alison Brahe who opens up about her traumatic third birth and reveals even she has post-baby-body hang-ups! Do you drink in front of your kids? One mum has had enough of 'mandatory' drinking and says it's completely inappropriate. And a dad has sent an angry letter to his daughter's school. Tune in to find ...
Dec 20, 2017•31 min
