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...

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 [email protected] 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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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 [email protected] or for super shame super anonymous you can pop them in this form.  THE END BITS  Enter...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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 [email protected] 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...

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...

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...

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...

A wise historian (Annaliese) once said that house guests are like fish—after two days, they’ve got to go. And in one confession, a parent is feeling especially anxious with both Christmas and their in-laws fast approaching. Stacey and Annaliese also help a parent navigate a "circle of life" faux pas, plus a confession that proves flattery can quite literally get you anywhere. THE END BITS  If you’re looking for something else to listen to why not check out our hilarious and seriously...

Think back to your child's biggest meltdown – maybe it happened right in the middle of a supermarket, or on one of those days where your own emotions were just as high. The truth is, as parents, we’re not that different. We have our own breakdowns, struggling to regulate our emotions in this tough world. While kids can get away with a cuddle to calm them down, we’re expected to just keep going. Its rude.... and unfair!  In this week's episode, Annaliese and Tegan share their own child-like...

The bond between sisters is a unique mix of fierce loyalty and the ability to argue over just about anything. But when someone you love is in danger, that bond becomes unwavering. In this episode of Little Love Stories, we explore the extraordinary bond between sisters Grace and Lil O'Connell. When Lil fell critically ill with meningococcal disease on Christmas Day 2017, her life was on the line. After weeks in the ICU, she pulled through, only to face kidney failure. In a twist of fate, her...

Having a child fundamentally changes your world. It’s a beautiful transformation that brings wonderful new experiences, but it also alters the dynamics of your relationships, including friendships. In this week’s episode, Tegan and Annaliese reflect on how their friendships have evolved through different seasons, including those that have come back around, as well as the new connections formed through parenthood. Plus, Sarah Marie dives into what might be the best family drama of all time,...

Is gaslighting a toddler ever okay? We are divided on this episode of Parents Anonymous - which might just be our most outrageous yet. From failed homework to divorce celebration we are dishing out our judgement-free judgement on your biggest parenting confessions and sharing ours as well. Please share your shameful secrets by leaving us a voice note, email us at [email protected] or for super shame super anonymous you can pop them in this form.  THE END BITS  If you’re looking for...

Do you remember being pregnant with your first child? Your head filled with what you expected, only to be blindsided by the things no one warned you about. With over 15 years of parenting experience between them, Annaliese Todd and Tegan Natoli are here to offer honest advice to all the expecting parents at the Mamamia office. And they take their role as “mummy myth busters” very seriously! THE END BITS If you’re looking for something else to listen to why not check out our award winning...

While conversations around mental health have become more common, are they really reaching those who need help? Today’s episode of Little Love Stories reminds us of the importance of checking in on mental health through initiatives like R U OK day? Our guest today, Mamamia social media producer Sharn Jaye, shares her personal story of being asked the life-saving question, and bravely answering, 'No'.  If you need support you can call Lifeline 24 hours a day on 13 11 14. Or talk to a...

Parenting definitely comes with its fair share of complaints. If it were a business, we’d all be asking to speak to the manager - long hours, little appreciation, and a never-ending workload. But, every now and then, something magical happens in those moments that makes it the best job in the world. In this episode, Annaliese and Tegan dive into their parenting regrets and reasons. Of course, it wouldn’t be This Glorious Mess without a perfect mix of light and shade. Plus, Sarah Marie has a...