The Juggling Act - podcast cover

The Juggling Act

kidspot.com.auwww.kidspot.com.au

Hosted by Kidspot writer and mum-of-two Melissa Wilson, and businesswoman and mum-of-one Jules Robinson, The Juggling Act covers the latest opinions, challenges, expert advice, celebrity interviews, real-life stories plus much more for busy parents. This supportive, informative and totally relatable podcast aims to offer insight and advice for mums and dads to help them navigate their professional and parenting lives, plus the mess in between. 

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Episodes

Marc Fennell on stepping back and putting family first

This week we’re joined by dad of two, host of The Feed on SBS Vice-land and all round over-achiever Marc Fennell. Mark shares his unique hand modelling skills and we talk about the way the Me Too movement has changed the way we parent. Mark also shares the stories that have changed him and the moment he realised he needed to take a step back from his career, slow down and spend more time with his family. Plus, Mel learns just how ruse every day songs can be when you have a creative three-year-ol...

Mar 20, 201930 min

Annabel Karmel on the tragedy that inspired her to change everything

Today we’re joined by mum of three and baby food guru Annabel Karmel , who opens up about the tragic loss of her first child, Natasha, and how this loss inspired her to begin building her now legendary baby food empire.The best selling chef lets us in on the secrets of fussy eaters and admits that even her own son was picky about what he'd eat, leading to the creation of some of her most popular recipes.Plus, Cass and Mel talk Momo challenges and out of control baby shower traditions and whether...

Mar 13, 201931 min

How to start your own mummy side hustle

This week on The Juggling Act, we're joined by mum of three under five and self-made millionaire Denise Duffield Thomaswho tells us about taking a fun and fresh approach to finances. She wants to help women overcome their fear ofmoney and says everyone needs a side hustle.Plus, there’s a newpregnancy guide out written just for Aussie women – we met the authors behind it and hearthe surprising way they met.And, are lunchbox rules getting completely out of control? Cassie and Mel talk lunchbox pai...

Mar 06, 201930 min

Jacqueline Alwill on whether fussy eaters are born or made

This week we're joined by by nutritionist and mum Jacqueline Alwill who tells us whether fussy eaters are born or made – ie. is it OUR fault?Plus, we talk about the twice-daily hell that is the school run. Mel and Cassie aren't at all surprised to find out that a recent case of 'drop-off rage' resulted in a court visit for one mum. The two share their own experiences with nightmare school runs. and, over the top birthday parties - Cass has been to a few and she's held a few - she's even written ...

Feb 27, 201925 min

How to go from single mum to millionaire

Joining us on The Juggling Act this week is mum of two and author of The Joyful Frugalista, Serina Bird, on how she went from single mum to millionaire. Serina shares her tips on how to make money less intimidating and her secret to feeding your family on $50 a week. We also vent our lunchbox packing frustrations and Cassie explains how her daughter ended up learning the 'f' word from a certain stationary store. SHOW NOTESYour hosts this week are Mel Wilson and Laura Mazza and our huge thanksto ...

Feb 20, 201928 min

Nat Bass on why it's good for kids to see you cry and Laura Mazza guest hosts

This week on the podcast, we've got the lovely Laura Mazza guest hosting. Laura knows a thing or two about going viral - she tells us about the time she farted in yoga and ended up being famous for it. Whoops!Plus we’re joined by mum-of-two and massive overachiever Natalie Bassingthwaighte opens up about the new job that’s helping her heal after a personal tragedy.Nat tells us all about her new project and how she overcame some of the challenges she has faced in the past couple of years, as well...

Feb 13, 201929 min

Laura Csortan on the realities of life as a single mum

Early morning starts is something that Laura has been used to after having a successful TV andmodelling career that has spanned over two decades, yet being a single mother and startingeach and every day at the crack of dawn takes on a different level of exhaustion.Kidspot catches up with former Miss Universe Australia and Miss World Australia, Laura Csortan,at her beachside pad and finds out how the past two years have been, working and being asingle parent to her gorgeous daughter Layla Rose an...

Feb 07, 201927 min

The back to school special not to be missed

Hello, hello! Back by popular demand, we're replaying our back to school special episode from last year.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...

Jan 30, 201936 min

Rachael Finch shares her controversial feelings about childbirth

This week, we're joined by mum of two Rachael Finch, who tells us about her unusual feelings about childbirth…What's that? Well, she LOVES IT! I know, it's not everyone's favourite activity but Rachael tells Mel that she enjoyed the experience of giving birth and the feeling of transitioning into motherhood. We also talk to Naomi Stalenberg from the Big Bash League, Sydney Thunder about why those hours you’re putting into carting your kids round to play sports are totally worth it.Plus, Cassie H...

Jan 23, 201931 min

Steve 'Commando' Willis gets emotional about how fatherhood has changed him

This week we're joined by one of the fittest (and foxiest) dads in Australia, Steve Willis, better known as Commando Steve. Steve gets emotional when he revealsthe biggest thing he’s learnt as a parent, and talks about the different things we can do as parents to help our children feel better physically and mentally. Plus, we talk sharenting - we're all guilty of sharing a little too much about our kids from time to time online, but what would you do if your child specifically asked you to stop?...

Jan 16, 201928 min

Sally Obermeder on smoothies, surrogates and super mums

Today we’re joined by one of our fav mums and celebrities, she's a cook, a TV host, ambassador for Athlete's Foot and an all-around delight, Sally Obermeder. She opens up about how her cancer battle helped her to listen to her own body better, whether she would use the same surrogate to have a third child and how she manages to keep up her own juggle with some very handy back to school tips and tricks. Plus, is it ever ok to sneak a cheeky morning wine? Or has our mummy wine culture spun out of ...

Dec 12, 201830 min

'I discovered I was going to be a mum to a newborn with less than 12 hours notice'

When Nicole found herself suddenly single at 38-year-old she thought she might have missed the boat on becoming a mother. But an information night at a fertility centre put her on a path to becoming a solo mum through IVF. She gave birth to a beautiful little girl. 18 months later Nicole tried again to fall pregnant through the same process but after three failed rounds of IVF she gave up. That’s when she met someone who introduced her to the idea of fostering. She didn't realise just how quickl...

Dec 05, 201827 min

Kate Ritchie on growing up in the spotlight

This week we got to fangirl over the gorgeous Kate Ritchie who opens up about how she would feel if her daughter Mae had a childhood like she did. Kate talks about living in the spotlight and the amazing ability that kids have to adapt when they don't know anything different. Plus, we know the stay at home parent also becomes chief cook and cleaner, so what would it actually cost to outsource all that they do? And, when it comes to co sleeping - how old is too old for parents to sleep in the sam...

Nov 28, 201829 min

Michael and Carlene Duffy on why The Block is more difficult than having a newborn

This week we’re joined by The Block power couple Michael and Carlene who tell us what it was really like competing on The Block, the sleep deprivation, insane hours and what it felt like to walk away with just $10,000. They also opened up about the rumours they wanted to use their winnings to have another baby. Plus, if your friend spelt their baby's name wrong, would you tell them? A mum took to Mumsnet' to share her dilemma when her friend announced she was naming her child Pheobe. Uh oh. And,...

Nov 21, 201829 min

Georgie Parker shares her secret to staying sane

This week on the Juggling Act, we're joined by TV star Georgie Parker who shares everything from juggling a child and a career, to why she thinks dads should get more credit. Plus, Mel tells us why she's officially banning the band-aid at her house, Giles talks about the surprising bonus of having a broken back and Cassie tells us how one perfect gift idea is going to leave her massively out of pocket. SHOW NOTESYour hosts are Mel Wilson and Cassie Hamer with special guest Giles Hardie and our h...

Nov 14, 201827 min

Annabel Crabb's hack to avoid feeding kids at dinner parties

This week we're joined by domestic goddess, political journalist and mum of three Annabel Crabb, who reveals where she stands on the ‘pop in’. She also shares her magic frozen peas trick and her secret to having a family friendly dinner party (without having to cook for kids). Plus, Candy Jacques from the Gender Centre is in the studio to talk us through what to do if your child finds themselves feeling confused or unhappy about their gender. And how would you react if you gave away a pram only ...

Nov 07, 201831 min

Is it ever OK to lick your plates before putting them in the dishwasher?

This week we're talking about the surprising benefits of having a sick toddler, the unsurprising discomfort of breaking your back and, we're asking the big questions, namely: Is it ever OK to lick your plates before putting them in the dishwasher? A debate will rage, is Giles right? Does bacon really excuse all sins? Or is there never a scenario when this behaviour is OK? We're also joined this week by mum-of-three and entrepreneur Cass Spies who talks about the risk she took quitting hercorpora...

Oct 31, 201825 min

Jessica Rowe on life after television

This week we're joined by the absolutely brilliant Jessica Rowe. Jess is a journalist and TV presenter, this amazing lady has been broadcasting into our living rooms for the past 20 years on shows such as Sunrise, Today and Studio 10. Earlier this year, she took a step back from the limelight to concentrate on her passion projects, like Craphousewife.com.au, where she shares stories from her not-so-perfect life as a mother of two and wife to a high-profile news presenter. Now she's signed on as ...

Oct 26, 201831 min

Nina Young on the moment she found out her father is a murderer

This week we’re joined by journalist Nina Young, host of one of the most popular podcasts in the country right now, My Father The Murderer, she’s opened up about the day she found out the worst secret imaginable. All her life, Nina had known her father was a bad man. But when she turned 26, she found out just how bad. Before Nina was born, her father killed a woman and was sentenced to life in prison. It was there that he met Nina’s mother. Nina tells us what it was like making that discovery, a...

Oct 18, 201827 min

Sarah Boulazeris on having a baby with Kris Smith

This week we're joined by the lovely Sarah Boulazeris and the personal trainer opens up about the excitement of preparing to have her first baby with model and former footballer, Kris Smith. The little one who's due in December is Smith's second child, his first is Ethan who Smith shares custody of with his former partner Dannii Minogue. Sarah chats about accepting how her body is changing and how her routine has changed with impending motherhood. Plus, how would you react if your child told you...

Oct 10, 201826 min

Imogen Bailey on finding your tribe

Today we’re joined by doula and former model Imogen Bailey who tells us all about the incredible things that can happen when women come together, and why she's started leading 'women's circles.'And, one very brave family shared the reality of what it's like to have a child facing cancer. ittle Harper's story had all of us in tears and we're so honoured to help the Kelly Family spread the word about the Leukaemia Foundation Light the Night event.SHOW NOTESYour hosts are Mel Wilson and Cassie Hame...

Oct 03, 201827 min

Amy Molloy on the grief of losing her husband

This week, we’re joined by author and mum of two Amy Molloy, who shares her heartbreaking story of losing her husband just three weeks after they married – when she was only 23. But Amy isn't letting this tragedy be the defining story of her life, she' growing and healing and is here to share her knowledge. Plus, can everyone please stop mum-shaming Mel? She's had more than enough, and Cassie tells us she's ready to expand her family... Well, kind of. SHOW NOTESYour hosts are Mel Wilson and Cass...

Sep 26, 201827 min

Justine Clarke tells us how she stays silly

This week we're joined by the divine Justine Clarke, who talks staying silly, watching her kids grow up and how children react when they see her in real life…Mel also shares what life is like in toilet training hell and Cassie tells us how she's back from holidays with the kids - and is ready to take a holiday to recover.In the newsParents with children at Burrowes State School in QLD received an email last week which has left a bad taste in their mouths.New school principal has informed parents...

Sep 19, 201825 min

Tiff Hall and Olivia White on the highs and lows of the first five years of motherhood

On a very special episode of The Juggling Act, we're joined by health and wellness expert and founder of TIFFXO, Tiff Hall. Also with us is the fabulous Olivia White who blogs at House of White. The ladies are here to get real about motherhood, the good, the bad and the ugly. The first five years of motherhood are all about surviving the trenches, celebrating milestones and worrying way too much!Tiff shares how her professional comedian husband Ed Kavalee was the one to win her son Arnold's firs...

Sep 12, 201829 min

Adele Barbaro on her infertility struggle and her surprise second baby

This week on The Juggling Act, Mel is about to embark on toilet training her toddler. She's armed with a tonne of prizes and a mountain of spare undies, but she has a feeling she's going to face a battle.We're also joined by the Real Mumma, Adele Barbaro, who keeps it real, sharing her honest and raw insights into parenthood with her many followers on Facebook and Instagram.Adele shares her story of infertility, IVF success and how she and her partner ended up falling pregnant naturally with her...

Sep 05, 201828 min

Jules Sebastian on the moment she knew she had to put down the chocolate

If you happened to catch mum-of-two Jules Sebastian recently posing with her husband Guy for Men's Health Magazine, I bet you couldn't help but notice that she looked incredibly buff.But, when Jules sat down with the Juggling Act this week, she was quick to tell us that her recent fitness journey did not come easily. First she had to find the motivation to put down the chocolate and put in the hard work for six days a week for eight weeks straight. She talked Mel through her plans to maintain he...

Aug 29, 201830 min

Is your child ready for school? Here's how to tell

Every year around the country, mums have to face the decision, to send or not to send? If your child's birthday falls in the middle of the year, you might find the decision pretty difficult.This week on we're joined by educator, mum and author ofIs My Child Ready For SchoolKaren Seinor, to chat school readiness.The Juggling Act, Karen shares the signs that your child is not ready, including difficulty separating from their parents and language skills.We also talk to Kylie Ostle from Mum Society ...

Aug 22, 201828 min

The embarrassing questions we asked as new mums

Being a new mum is a steep learning curve that no amount of baby books or unsolicited advice from random strangers can prepare you for. So looking back, as CPR Kids founder Sarah Hunstead can tell you, we all had some pretty embarrassing questions.On the podcast this week Sarah chats with the team about the time she was convinced her baby had worms in her poo and the graphic Googling that ensured.We also hear from Kelly Cull from Expedia about how to save money while travelling with kids in tow....

Aug 15, 201827 min

Why Nova's Sarah McGilvray ditched her mother's group (and is so happy she did!)

Expecting mums are often warned they might not bond with their babies straight away. But Sarah McGilvray wasn't prepared for the opposite to happen.This week, the Nova brekkie host shares why she was convinced her son hated her for the first few months of his life.Plus, she reveals the moment she decided it was time to ditch her mother's group.The team also chat with NRL star Mitch Aubusson on how life has changed since becoming a dad. Mitch is the star of the Sydney Roosters who run the Steggle...

Aug 08, 201829 min

Lindy Klim on the reason she was scared to leave her marriage

This week we are joined by the amazing Lindy Klim. The mum-of-four and fashion designer opened up on her fears about finding love as a single mum, the stress of co-parenting and why she hated her mothers group.Plus, organ donation, it’s something that most of us don’t like to think too much about. But every day, hundreds of Australian’s are waking up, wondering if this might be the day they get the news that their life-saving donation is coming.Belinda Hanly, a mum from Sydney, shares her story ...

Aug 01, 201830 min
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