Happy Mum

This week Giovanna is joined by model and presenter Hannah Cooper-Dommett. Hannah opens up about how her relationship with husband Joel has changed since they became parents to their two boys, and how they've navigated keeping their marriage strong amid the chaos of family life. She also shares what it was like to step into the role of carer when her mum was diagnosed with a brain tumour, and how she came to accept that her mum couldn’t be the support for her children that she had always imagined. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Giovanna catches up with her friend Becky Cheetham this week to talk about Becky's experience as a sibling carer. Becky’s sister, Hannah, has cerebral palsy, and Becky opens up to Gi about the challenges and joys of growing up as part of a family shaped by disability. She reflects on feeling like ‘the glass child’ – the sibling whose needs can sometimes take a back seat – and the impact this has had on her life. Plus, Becky shares her thoughts on the future, navigating her role as a sibling carer and what it means for her relationship with Hannah as they get older. You can follow Hannah and Becky (Cheethams with Dreams) on Instagram and TikTok x Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Giovanna sits down with the incredibly talented Annabel Scholey! You’ll know Annabel from Rivals and, of course (the Happy Mum team’s personal favourite) The Split. But behind the scenes, Annabel was navigating the end of her own marriage, alongside balancing her acting career and raising her daughter. Annabel opens up to Gi about the moment she knew her marriage was over, and talks about the grief that came with accepting she doesn’t have the ‘traditional’ family unit she once planned. You can catch Annabel in Winter on ITV now, and Rivals Part 2 arrives on 11 November. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when you’ve spent so long holding everything together that you simply can’t anymore? This week, Giovanna sits down with former Editor-in-Chief of HELLO! Magazine Rosie Nixon to talk about the breakdown that became the catalyst for transforming her life. Rosie opens up about motherhood, the pressure to keep going and the guilt that can come with admitting you’re struggling. Rosie’s book, The PRO Method: Pause, Reflect & Organise, is available now! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger warning: this episode includes discussions around bereavement and cancer. If you feel this may be a difficult listen, please choose another episode x Giovanna is joined this week by her good friend and CoppaFeel! co-founder Maren Sheldon. Maren opens up about navigating first-time motherhood alongside her twin sister Kris's incurable breast cancer diagnosis. and shares the honest, sometimes heartbreaking, and often unexpectedly funny realities of parenting through grief. The new edition of Kris Hallenga's memoir Glittering a Turd, featuring new material from Maren and a foreword by Dawn French, is out 24th September. Head to CoppaFeel! for more helpful information and resources xx Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, the hilarious Maddy Lucy Dann joins us for a chat about becoming a mum for the first time. Maddy tells Gi what it’s really like balancing life as an A&E doctor with pregnancy, including navigating night shifts while expecting, and how becoming a mum has changed the way she sees her work. She also opens up about sharing her aspects of her life online, including the criticism she faced over a breastfeeding video, and the reaction to her viral discussion of Bonnie Blue. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Happy Mum, we are joined by strong, inspiring and incredible mother of two Sophie Derry. When Sophie's daughter Odette started vomiting on car journeys and having headaches, doctors initially put it down to travel sickness. An eye test changed everything, revealing a brain tumour that would lead to emergency surgery and fifteen further operations over seven months. Before the family could catch their breath, Sophie's younger daughter Eliza was diagnosed with leukaemia. Sophie opens up to Gi about what it's like to face childhood cancer not once but twice -- the fear, the exhaustion, and the moments of hope. If you’d like to show your support for some of the charities that have been there for Sophie, you can find links to them below: PASIC https://www.pasic.org.uk When You Wish Upon a Star https://www.whenyouwishuponastar.org.uk Young Lives v Cancer https://www.younglivesvscancer.org.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, our favourite reality star turned singing and cooking sensation Megan McKenna joins Giovanna in the Happy Mum studio! Megan tells Gi all about becoming a mum to Landon, including her experience with IVF and what it’s like living between two countries as a new mum. She also reflects on the bullying she experienced at school, and how it shaped her confidence and the way she wants to parent. Plus, stay tuned for a surprise at the end of the episode! 👀 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Made in Chelsea's Sam and Alice Vanderpump join Giovanna to talk about the reality of becoming parents. Alice bravely opens up about what life feels like for her right now as she navigates postnatal depression. She talks honestly about anxiety, feeling isolated and how she hasn't felt like herself since becoming a mum. Sam shares what it has been like supporting Alice through her mental health struggles, while also reflecting on his own health journey and how becoming a dad has given him a new perspective on what his own parents went through. Find out more about Sam's end-stage liver disease diagnosis -- Made in Chelsea: Sam Vanderpump’s Story is available to stream on Channel 4 now Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The summer holidays are in full swing... and if your usual routines have gone completely out the window, you're definitely not alone! Whether you're juggling work and childcare, surviving later bedtimes, entertaining little ones, or simply trying to keep everyone fed, this special episode is here to remind you that you're doing a better job than you think. 00:54 – Keira Knightley gets refreshingly honest about sleep deprivation, survival mode and the reality of those early months 09:47 – Lucy Watson on letting go of expectations, trusting your instincts and why comparison is never helpful 19:03 – Carrie Hope Fletcher & Joel Montague discuss juggling careers and family life, and why you don't have to follow anyone else's path 25:18 – Lacey Turner shares why she's become more relaxed with each child, and why sometimes you just have to throw the parenting books out the window 35:37 – Emma Willis on why accepting help doesn't make you a bad parent...it makes you human! ☀️☀️☀️ Hosted on Acast. See…

We might only be halfway through the summer holidays, but for many families the countdown to a new school year has already begun. And September can bring a whole mix of emotions for children and parents alike. So, as part of Matalan’s Back to School Special, Giovanna sits down with NSPCC expert Gail Sayles to talk about something that can make all the difference when those school gates open again: confidence. Drawing on years of supporting children through everything from school anxiety and bullying, to exams and friendship worries, Gail shares thoughtful, practical advice on how we can help our children navigate big feelings, build self-belief and feel empowered as they head back to school. And the confidence doesn’t stop here! The Matalan Confidence Caravan is hitting the road this August, giving you the opportunity to add a personalised message to your little one’s pre-purchased Matalan uniform. The Confidence Caravan will be visiting four stores: Bilston, Preston, Luton and Swindon - check @shopmatalan…

Trigger warning: This episode contains discussion of miscarriage and pregnancy loss. If you think you may find this difficult to listen to, please choose another episode x You might know her from Pop Idol, starring in the West End as Tina Turner, or her recent stint joining Take That on tour, but this week Zoe Birkett is reflecting on her role as a mum. Zoe shares with Gi how she never imagined motherhood for herself, how meeting her husband changed everything, and why returning to a career she loves has made her a better mum. She also opens up about her experience of pregnancy loss while performing as a leading lady in the West End, opening up about navigating grief behind the scenes, and the support that helped her through. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger warning: this episode contains discussions of suicide, mental illness and childhood trauma that some listeners may find upsetting. Ruthie Henshall has spent decades captivating audiences on stage, but in this episode she joins Giovanna to talk about the role that has shaped her most: being a mum! Ruthie reflects on choosing motherhood at the height of her career, raising two daughters as a single parent, and how becoming a mum changed her ambitions forever. She also opens up about her own childhood, the lasting impact it had on her parenting, and the unexpected healing she found with her mother later in life. Ruthie's new memoir, The Showgirl and the Prince, is out now! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How has maternity care changed over the last few decades, and what still needs to improve? In the final episode of this series, we reflect on the evolution of birth and look forward to the future of maternity care. If you're interested in being part of the next series of Life of a Midwife we'd love to hear from you! Just drop us an email midwives@pixiu.co.uk Links from our midwives: All4Maternity is the go to place for education and support if you’re a midwife or student midwife. And All4Birth is the home for expectant and new parents - free, non-biased, evidence-based information! Curated by a midwife ❤️ BabySZN™ is a platform built to help women train specifically for fertility, pregnancy from a birthdual-qualified midwife and performance trainer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

TW: This episode contains devastating conversations around child loss from a traumatic event, and themes of grief. Please do take care of yourself while listening, and know that it’s completely okay to step away and come back when you’re ready. In this week's episode, Gi sits down with Jen Stancombe to honour the life of her daughter, Elsie Dot Stancombe. In July 2024, seven-year-old Elsie was one of three young girls killed in the Southport attack. Jen joins Gi to share who Elsie truly was beyond the headlines: a joyful, caring, and inspirational big sister, who brought light to everyone she met. Jen speaks about navigating the unimaginable grief alongside her husband David and their younger daughter, while sharing how love for Elsie continues to shape their family every day. She also reflects on the strength they've found in keeping Elsie's memory alive and the purpose they've discovered through the foundation created in her name. We are incredibly grateful to Jen for trusting us with Elsie's story. To…

Trigger warning: this episode incudes challenging experiences relating to birth and baby loss. If you feel this may be a difficult listen please consider choosing another episode 💜 Fear and hope often exist side by side throughout pregnancy and birth. This week two midwives highlight the importance of clear, compassionate communication -- from easing birth anxieties to supporting families through pregnancy loss. If you're interested in being part of the next series of Life of a Midwife we'd love to hear from you! Just drop us an email midwives@pixiu.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week make some noise for the first wrestler to join us on the podcast: WWE icon Becky Lynch! Known to millions as The Man, Becky tells Gi about the moment she found out she was pregnant — while reigning as WWE Champion. She also opens up about becoming a mum to daughter Roux during the pandemic and the challenges that followed, including post-weaning depression, grief after losing her father, and learning to see her body in a whole new light. Watch Becky on WWE Raw live every Monday night exclusively on Netflix! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger warning: this episode incudes challenging experiences relating to birth. If you feel this may be a difficult listen please consider choosing another episode 💜 When birth takes an unexpected turn, staying calm can make all the difference. This week two midwives share the emergencies they'll never forget. If you’re interested in being part of the Life of a Midwife series, we’d love to hear from you — just drop us an email midwives@pixiu.co.uk Links from our midwives: Little Light Support offers independent, trauma-informed birth debriefs for women and families — particularly those who’ve had complex, confusing or difficult experiences East Anglian Midwives offer personalised pregnancy care, homebirth and hospital birth support, and postnatal care in Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex, and Cambridge Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger Warning: this episode contains discussions around some difficult subjects including traumatic birth. If you think you may find this difficult to listen to, please choose another episode x Former MP Theo Clarke joins Giovanna this week to share the story of how the birth of her daughter led her to become a campaigner for better maternity care. Theo talks about navigating pregnancy while working in politics, including the challenges of having no statutory maternity leave as an MP and the pressure of being on duty during a period of major political upheaval. She also opens up about her traumatic birth experience and the lack of adequate postnatal support she received afterwards, experiences that led her to launch the first UK parliamentary debate on birth trauma. Since then, she has continued campaigning alongside Louise Thompson for the introduction of an independent maternity commissioner. UPDATE: Since recording this episode, the government has announced the appointment of the UK’s first-ever…

Was home birth different in the 1970s compared to today? This week, two midwives take us inside the world of birth beyond the hospital: from pioneering one of the earliest home water births to facing the realities, risks, and unexpected moments that come with bringing a baby into the world at home — even when the carpet is cream! If you’re interested in being part of the Life of a Midwife series, we’d love to hear from you — just drop us an email midwives@pixiu.co.uk Links from our midwives: All4Maternity is the go to place for education and support if you’re a midwife or student midwife. And All4Birth is the home for expectant and new parents - free, non-biased, evidence-based information! Curated by a midwife ❤️ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger Warning: this episode contains discussions around some difficult subjects including traumatic birth and breast cancer. If you think you may find this difficult to listen to, please choose another episode x In this episode Giovanna sits down with NHS GP, resident GP on BBC Morning Live and bestselling author, Dr Punam Krishan! Punam opens up about her own traumatic first birth and the life-threatening complications, postnatal depression, and PTSD that followed. She also talks about the breast cancer diagnosis she received last year that reinforced the importance of listening to her body and advocating for herself. Please take this conversation as a reminder to check your chests! Dr Punam's latest book, The Mother Load Every Mother’s Guide to Juggling Health, Life & Happiness, is out now! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do midwives hold it together in times of immense pressure? In this episode we hear from two midwives who have learned how to stay calm during overwhelming moments. If you’re interested in being part of the Life of a Midwife series, we’d love to hear from you — just drop us an email midwives@pixiu.co.uk Links from our midwives: Petition · Make birth safer: protect midwives' working hours - United Kingdom · Change.org Hard Pushed: A Midwife's Story and Womb: The Inside Story of Where We All Began East Anglian Midwives offer personalised pregnancy care, homebirth and hospital birth support, and postnatal care in Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex, and Cambridge Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we’re marking Father’s Day with a very special episode as we welcome Adam Frisby and Jamie Corbett to the studio! They join Gi to share their remarkable journey to parenthood, including the moment their first surrogate withdrew from the process, how their own childhoods shaped the parents they wanted to be, and the joy of welcoming their beautiful baby Leven to the world. Adam and Jamie also open up about the public scrutiny they’ve faced as a same-sex couple starting a family, and why they’re advocating for surrogacy law reform to better recognise intended parents from birth. You can learn more about Adam and Jamie’s petition to change surrogacy law here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger warning: this episode incudes challenging experiences relating to birth and baby loss. If you feel this may be a difficult listen please consider choosing another episode 💜 What happens when birth leaves a mark that doesn't just disappear? In this episode we hear from two midwives who understand the lasting impact of birth trauma and what it means for the families who are left without clear answers. If you’re interested in being part of the next series of Life of a Midwife, we’d love to hear from you — just drop us an email midwives@pixiu.co.uk Links from our midwives: Little Light Support offers independent, trauma-informed birth debriefs for women and families — particularly those who’ve had complex, confusing or difficult experiences Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we’re so excited to welcome Lauren Cowell for her first ever podcast interview! After years of keeping a low profile while navigating public scrutiny, Lauren opens up to Gi about life after divorce, co-parenting, and how she handled the intense media attention surrounding her pregnancy with partner Simon Cowell. Lauren also shares more about her involvement in the ‘Raise the Age’ campaign — and since recording this episode, Keir Starmer has announced plans for under-16s to be banned from social media by spring 2027 👏👏👏 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Life of a Midwife, Giovanna shares the extraordinary journey of one midwife who turned her own hardships into a lifelong calling. From an orphaned child to an abandoned mother of triplets, to becoming the midwife she once desperately needed herself. If you're interested in being part of the next series of Life of a Midwife we'd love to hear from you! Just drop us an email at midwives@pixiu.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Giovanna welcomes legendary singer-songwriter Laura Marling to the studio! Laura tells Gi about her early fears that becoming a mother might stifle her creativity, and shares her experiences of having two home births. She also discusses her mission to create children's music that parents can genuinely enjoy, and introduces her new venture, 'Laura Sings Raffi,' a 17-track cover album of beloved children's songs. Each song is brought to life with videos illustrated by Laura and animated by Rob Shuttleworth. Out now at Laurasings.co Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"If my gut is telling me something is wrong, something is wrong." This week we hear from two midwives who know the power of following their instincts. If you're interested in being part of the next series of Life of a Midwife we'd love to hear from you! Just drop us an email midwives@pixiu.co.uk Links from our midwives: Midwife Pip: The Home of Trusted Pregnancy, Birth and Postnatal Support For Parents Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Gi reunites with her old friend Susannah Fielding! You’ll know Susannah from This Time with Alan Partridge, Man vs Baby, and Wolf Hall — but her most important role is being mum to her two-year-old son Alfie. Susannah opens up to Gi about growing up with a single mother and an intermittently absent father, how those experiences shaped her relationships, and why she’s so focused on breaking cycles and not passing trauma on to her own child. She also shares the story of her planned home birth that turned into an emergency C-section, the challenges she faced with breastfeeding, and what it’s been like returning to the theatre as a mum. You can catch Susannah starring opposite Adrian Lester in Cyrano de Bergerac at the Noël Coward Theatre from 13th June. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger warning: this episode incudes challenging experiences relating to baby loss. If you feel this may be a difficult listen please consider choosing another episode 💜 This week on Life of a Midwife we hear more of Anna’s extraordinary story, beginning with one of the first births she attended in South Sudan before she had even qualified as a midwife. Anna also speaks candidly about her own experiences of having children. If you’re interested in being part of the next series of Life of a Midwife, we’d love to hear from you — just drop us an email midwives@pixiu.co.uk Links from our midwives: Donate to Médecins Sans Frontières BabySZN™ is a platform built to help women train specifically for fertility, pregnancy from a birthdual-qualified midwife and performance trainer Frontline Midwife by Anna Kent Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Giovanna sits down with singer, presenter and all-round ray of sunshine Mollie King ! Mollie chats to Gi about life with her two young daughters, the realities of motherhood (no sleep), and her exciting new venture into podcasting. She also opens up about navigating her father’s terminal illness while preparing to welcome her first baby. Don’t forget to check out Novel Idea — Mollie’s brilliant new podcast with Matt Edmondson! If you’re loving the conversations on the podcast, make sure you subscribe to our brand new Substack! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger warning: this episode contains descriptions related to childbirth that may be distressing or upsetting to some listeners. Purpose isn't always comfortable. Sometimes it takes you somewhere extraordinary. This week we delve into the inspiring stories of two midwives whose paths were shaped by a pull they simply couldn't ignore. If you’re interested in being part of the next series of Life of a Midwife, we’d love to hear from you — just drop us an email midwives@pixiu.co.uk Links from our midwives: Donate to Médecins Sans Frontières BabySZN™ is a platform built to help women train specifically for fertility, pregnancy from a birthdual-qualified midwife and performance trainer Frontline Midwife by Anna Kent Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

TRIGGER WARNING: this episode contains some difficult conversations, including discussions around suicidal thoughts. We know this can be a lot to take in, so please do take care of yourself while listening and know that it's completely okay to step away and come back when you're ready 💛 May is Maternal Mental Health Month, a reminder that keeping the difficult conversations going matters more than ever. Our guest this week you'll know from iconic films and tv shows such as Fresh Meat, Wild Child, and Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging. But after the birth of her son, Kimberley Nixon found herself in some of the darkest days of her life. Kimberley opens up to Giovanna about experiencing dark and intrusive thoughts, being diagnosed with postpartum OCD, and why she felt it was so important to share her story. Kimberley's brilliant new book She Seems Fine To Me is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it feel like to hold a life for the first time? In this episode of Life of a Midwife, three midwives tell us what it feels like to catch a baby! If you’re interested in being part of the next series of Life of a Midwife, we’d love to hear from you — just drop us an email midwives@pixiu.co.uk Links from our midwives: BabySZN™ is a platform built to help women train specifically for fertility, pregnancy from a birthdual-qualified midwife and performance trainer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Over the past nine years, Happy Mum Happy Baby has evolved — and so has our mission! Increasingly, our conversations have centred on mums themselves: their mental health, wellbeing, relationships, and identity. Because when a mum feels supported, seen, and heard, everything else can flourish. So... welcome to the era of Happy Mum ! And joining us to start this exciting new chapter is the gorgeous Lydia West. You’ll know Lydia from It’s a Sin, Years and Years, and Big Mood, but what you may not know is that she welcomed TWO babies between filming seasons one and two of Big Mood! For the first time, Lydia opens up about her pregnancies and births, sharing her experience of severe hyperemesis, as well as the challenges she faced with bonding and feeding. She and Gi also discuss her returning to work just eight weeks postpartum, the importance of supported childcare on set, and learning to loosen the reins amid the chaos of toddler life! Big Mood series two is now streaming on Channel 4 Hosted on Acast. See…

To celebrate the international day of the midwife we’ve got something very special for you — the very first episode of our brand-new miniseries! Every Thursday, we’ll be sharing powerful stories from midwives, past and present, as they reflect on the moments that have shaped their lives and careers. In this first episode, we'll trace the moments two women were pulled into midwifery. We’ll return to our regular guest episodes next Tuesday xx If you’re interested in being part of the Life of a Midwife series, we’d love to hear from you — just drop us an email midwives@pixiu.co.uk Links from our midwives: Little Light Support offers independent, trauma-informed birth debriefs for women and families — particularly those who’ve had complex, confusing or difficult experiences Petition · Make birth safer: protect midwives' working hours - United Kingdom · Change.org Hard Pushed: A Midwife's Story and Womb: The Inside Story of Where We All Began Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’ve got a special delivery coming your way… a brand-new miniseries! Life of a Midwife brings you raw, honest, and deeply personal stories from midwives — past and present — as they share the moments that shaped not just their careers, but their lives. Our first episode drops on Tuesday 5th May, perfectly timed to celebrate International Day of the Midwife! And new episodes delivered every Thursday after that. So join us as we honour the voices behind some of life's most extraordinary moments 💜 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Giovanna sits down with creator and OG YouTuber Hannah Witton! Hannah opens up about navigating motherhood while living with long-term chronic illness. She also shares her journey with secondary infertility and the emotional challenges of coping with other people’s pregnancy announcements. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Catherine Simpson thought she was failing as a mother throughout the first 10 years of her daughter Nina's life. After a decade of misdiagnosis, blame, and searching for answers, she finally discovered the truth: Nina is autistic. In this episode of Happy Mum Happy Baby, Catherine sits down with Giovanna for a conversation about the journey to getting Nina—now 31—her diagnosis. This episode is all about letting go of perfection, and learning to navigate a world not built for autistic children. Catherine’s memoir, Hold Fast: Motherhood, My Autistic Daughter and Me, is available now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Giovanna sits down with comedian, author, and podcaster Emma Doran. Emma reflects on becoming pregnant as a teenager while attending an all-girls convent school, and the challenges that followed. She also shares how she began stand-up on maternity leave, performing her first open mic when her baby was just six weeks old! Catch Emma on tour! Emma Doran has extended her Emmaculate UK and Ireland stand-up tour up until 2027, including the London Palladium on 7th February 2027. Emma will also make her debut at the 2026 Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Pleasance Courtyard – Beside from 5 – 30th August (excl 12th, 19th, 26th). For more info and tickets visit emmadorancomedy.com (Pic credit: Ray Burmiston) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When it comes to having children, what happens when you’re just not sure? This week, Vicky Pattison and husband Ercan Ramadan join Gi for a chat about the pressure to decide, the different paths available—from having children to adoption, surrogacy, or choosing a child-free life—and why the answer isn’t always simple. Vicky also opens up about her childhood, shaped by complex family dynamics and her relationship with her dad, and how that’s influenced her fears about becoming a mum. Vicky Pattison: Maybe, baby? is available now on C4 Streaming. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we welcome broadcaster, High Performance Podcast host, and father of two, Jake Humphrey, to the studio. Jake and Giovanna share their experiences of being bullied at school, with Jake sharing how those early challenges later helped him navigate public scrutiny as the BBC’s F1 presenter. He also talks candidly about fertility struggles and the deal he made with his wife while trying to conceive their first child during long periods away for work...! 'Game Plan: Level Up Your Mindset. Own Your Future' is out now! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Gi sits down with comedian Hannah East to talk about the chaos of parenting three children. Hannah shares her unique career journey, from competing on Gladiators (where she met her husband) to presenting at the 2012 Olympics. She also opens up about her fertility struggles and two miscarriages, and how her experiences with grief inspired her to create a stand-up show to help others feel less alone. Buy tickets to Hannah's tour here! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Giovanna sits down with Debbie Bright for an eye-opening conversation about what it’s really like to be a foster carer. Best known to many from TOWIE, Debbie is also one of the UK’s longest-serving foster carers, having cared for over 200 children across 35 years. Gi and Debbie talk about why children enter care, the importance of showing compassion rather than judgment toward birth parents, and the emotional reality of saying goodbye when children move on. Debbie also opens up about her own turbulent childhood, and offers heartfelt advice to anyone considering fostering. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our guest this week is presenter and author Chessie King! Chessie opens up to Giovanna about navigating her husband’s postnatal depression and the incredibly tough time that left their marriage on the brink of divorce. She also talks about the emotional journey of trying to conceive again after experiencing fertility struggles. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Giovanna is joined by adventurer and explorer Steve Backshall Steve and Gi catch up on family life as he reflects on his childhood and how it shaped the person he is today. He also opens up about his wife Helen's inspiring journey training for the Tokyo Olympics just months after giving birth, and of course, there are plenty of tales from his iconic adventures along the way. LEGO® Education has launched four innovative STEM sets for young builders aged 7+, championed by explorer Steve Backshall. These sets turn children's big 'Why?' questions into hands-on, independent scientific discovery. Available today via select LEGO Stores and LEGO.com/LEGOEducation Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One huge milestone. One unforgettable twist 👀 To celebrate 300 incredible episodes of Happy Mum Happy Baby, Giovanna finally finds herself on the other side of the table, lovingly nudged out of the hosting chair by none other than her best friend Emma Willis! In a perfect full-circle moment, Emma—who was HMHB’s very first guest—returns to turn the tables and get the full story on Gi’s parenting journey. It’s raw, revealing, and the perfect way to honour 300 episodes of honest conversation! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains explicit discussion surrounding issues including depression, postpartum psychosis and suicidal thoughts. This may prove a difficult listen for some and if you feel that listening may affect you negatively then please choose another episode. This week Giovanna sits down with Jade Lloyd for a powerful and deeply personal interview about her experience with postpartum psychosis. Jade tells Gi about her traumatic birth during COVID-19, followed by a descent into severe postpartum psychosis that required her being admitted to a mother and baby unit and sectioned. Postpartum psychosis is a psychiatric emergency that requires immediate intervention. If you are worried about yourself or a loved one it’s important to speak to a health professional such as a GP, midwife or health visitor. If it's an emergency and you don’t feel safe, call 999 or go straight to A&E. If Jade’s story has resonated with you and you need help or support, please don’t hesitate to use the resources…

This week, Giovanna is joined by the brilliantly funny reality star and mum of three, Charlotte Dawson! Charlotte opens up to Gi about honouring her dad Les Dawson’s memory at home, alongside her mission to champion body positivity for women everywhere. A hilarious, honest, and slightly chaotic episode — enjoy! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Happy Mum Happy Baby, Giovanna chats with the brilliant Lou Beckett! Lou opens up about the pressures of breastfeeding, and shares how she and her husband Rob navigated the all-too-real 'roommate phase' during their early days of parenthood. She also talks about the mental load of being the 'default parent': the one who keeps family life ticking, from organising clubs and parties to taking on the emotional and administrative side of home life. Lou's book Lessons From a Default Parent is available for preorder now! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.