Parental Control
Parental Control is a monthly parenting and lifestyle podcast created by My Baba and hosted by the website’s founder Leonora Bamford. The first episode came about when Leonora became increasingly frustrated at how challenging it is to keep her children safe online and wanted to find out what teenagers really think about being online and staying safe. Parental Control is about feeling in control as a parent or prospective parent and feeling confident tackling problems head-on. Each month, we’ll discuss current and on-going issues that affect mums and dads throughout parenthood and tease out the solutions with the help of some brilliant guest and expert speakers. My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting.
info_outline
Children's Phobias: What Every Parent Needs To Know
07/28/2026
Children's Phobias: What Every Parent Needs To Know
Fear is a normal part of childhood. From monsters under the bed to spiders, needles and the dark, most children will experience fears as they grow. But when does a fear become a phobia? And what can parents do to help? In this episode of Parental Control, Ellie Thompson is joined by leading Harley Street phobia expert and Face Your Fears author . Having overcome his own debilitating phobias, Christopher has spent more than 20 years helping people around the world—including Hollywood actors, musicians and celebrities—break free from fears that once controlled their lives. Together, they explore why phobias develop, how parents can respond without reinforcing fear, and why Christopher believes many phobias can be overcome far more quickly than most people realise. Whether your child is terrified of dogs, needles, vomiting or even going to school, this fascinating conversation is packed with practical advice that could help your whole family face fears with greater confidence. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/42239270
info_outline
The GCSE Problem Nobody Is Talking About
07/22/2026
The GCSE Problem Nobody Is Talking About
Every year in England, thousands of bright, capable kids sit down to take their GCSE English and maths exams — and fail. Not because they don't know the material. Not because they haven't worked hard. But because the exam itself only tests one narrow way of showing what you know. My guest today has lived this. She watched her own dyslexic son work harder than anyone, understand the material, and still miss the pass mark — again and again — by the smallest of margins. And she watched what that did to him. So she did something about it. She founded Fairer Exams, a parent-led campaign fighting for a fairer GCSE system — and she's since taken the message to the TEDx stage with a talk called Why exams need to change. Today we're talking about dyslexia, dyscalculia, and why England is falling so far behind when it comes to fair assessment. We'll get into the terrifying stats — did you know as many as one in three young people are effectively locked out of opportunity because of this one narrow form of testing? And we'll talk about a route that exists right now, hiding in plain sight, that almost nobody knows about — one that could change the trajectory for thousands of kids, if only more parents knew it was there. This is a conversation for every parent — not just those with a child who has additional needs — because this system touches every single family sending a child through school. My guest today is Hannah Gee, founder of . What a pleasure it was. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/42179520
info_outline
Body Image After 30: Why Are We Still So Hard On Ourselves?
07/14/2026
Body Image After 30: Why Are We Still So Hard On Ourselves?
Why do so many women reach their 30s and 40s feeling more critical of their bodies than ever before? In this honest and thought-provoking episode of Parental Control, Ellie Thompson sits down with eating disorder specialist and author to explore the complex relationship women have with food, body image and self-worth. From the pressures of social media and the rise of weight-loss injections to perimenopause, ageing and the unrealistic expectations placed on women, this conversation unpacks why so many of us still feel we're never quite enough—and, more importantly, how we can begin to change that. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes Instagram: is available from 27th August at £14.99 via major retailers including Penguin, Amazon and Waterstones. What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/42067760
info_outline
Can We Change The Future of DIPG? A Conversation With Dr Ashley Vardon
07/07/2026
Can We Change The Future of DIPG? A Conversation With Dr Ashley Vardon
What is it like to dedicate your career to finding a cure for one of the deadliest childhood cancers? In this deeply personal episode of Parental Control, Ellie Thompson sits down with , an NIHR Academic Clinical Lecturer at the University of Birmingham, whose pioneering research into diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is being part-funded by Billy's Battalion. Together, they explore what life is like on "the other side of the room"—the side where doctors and researchers must deliver devastating diagnoses while working tirelessly to change the future. From the latest breakthroughs in childhood brain cancer research to the hope emerging from global scientific collaboration, this is an honest conversation about grief, determination and why every research project matters. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes Billy's Battalion JustGiving page: More on What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/41990030
info_outline
Mum Rage: You Are Not Bad For Getting Mad
06/30/2026
Mum Rage: You Are Not Bad For Getting Mad
If you've ever found yourself shouting over something small, only to be overwhelmed with guilt moments later, you're far from alone. In this episode of Parental Control, Ellie Thompson is joined by award-winning journalist and author to explore one of motherhood's least talked about realities: mum rage. Lauren has spent more than two decades reporting on family life, child safety and social issues, and after becoming a mother herself during the Covid-19 pandemic, she turned her attention to the hidden pressures facing modern mums. In her book Meltdown, she explores what really sits beneath the anger, from the relentless mental load and sleep deprivation to hormones, guilt and the impossible expectations placed on mothers today. Together, Ellie and Lauren discuss why so many mums feel they're constantly on the edge, why maternal anger is still surrounded by shame, and what parents can do to recognise the warning signs before they reach breaking point. If you've ever wondered, "Why am I so angry all the time?" this honest and reassuring conversation is for you. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes Buy the book , by Laura Novak Instagram What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/41903720
info_outline
Relationships, Sex & Intimacy After Having Kids
06/22/2026
Relationships, Sex & Intimacy After Having Kids
Becoming parents changes everything, including your relationship. In this episode of Parental Control, Ellie Thompson is joined by relationship and sex therapist to discuss what really happens to intimacy, communication and connection after children. Why do so many couples end up feeling more like colleagues than lovers? Is it normal for sex to disappear after kids? How much conflict comes down to the mental load? And how do you know the difference between a rough patch and a relationship that's genuinely in trouble? Together, they explore the biggest communication mistakes couples make, the impact of social media on modern relationships, and why many women feel unprepared for the effect motherhood can have on sexual wellbeing. An honest, insightful and reassuring conversation for anyone navigating love, sex and family life. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes Website: Instagram: What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/41725595
info_outline
Why Are Children Worrying About Their Bodies So Young?
06/16/2026
Why Are Children Worrying About Their Bodies So Young?
Body image worries are starting younger. Diet culture may have changed its clothes, but it certainly hasn’t gone away — it’s simply rebranded as wellness, self-improvement and “health optimisation,” all while our children scroll through TikTok, influencers and impossible appearance standards in real time. In this episode of Parental Control, Ellie Thompson is joined by , eating disorder expert, coach, author of the upcoming book Food Freedom, and someone whose own struggles with body image and disordered eating began at just 10 years old. Together, they explore the early warning signs parents may miss, how to tell the difference between normal food fussiness and something more concerning, the everyday language around food and bodies that can accidentally cause harm, and what today’s obsession with wellness, weight-loss drugs, and appearance culture is doing to young minds. A thoughtful, honest and hugely important conversation for any parent raising children in a world obsessed with bodies. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes Instagram: is available from 27th August at £14.99 via major retailers including Penguin, Amazon and Waterstones. What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/41660735
info_outline
Starting Secondary School: How To Help Your Child Feel Confident And Ready
06/04/2026
Starting Secondary School: How To Help Your Child Feel Confident And Ready
Starting secondary school is one of the biggest milestones in childhood, and, if we’re honest, often one of the most emotionally charged for parents, too. From agonising over school choices and friendship groups to worrying about long commutes, organisation, bullying, overwhelm and whether your child is actually ready for such a huge leap, the move to Year 7 can feel daunting for the whole family. In this episode of Parental Control, Ellie Thompson is joined once again by education expert Katharine Radice to discuss how parents can support children through the transition to secondary school with confidence. Together, they explore how to choose the right school without becoming consumed by league tables and pressure, why the “best” school isn’t always the best fit, how to build independence before September, what to expect emotionally in those early weeks and how transitions can feel different for children with ADHD, autism, anxiety or additional needs. A practical, reassuring listen for any parent preparing to wave goodbye at the Year 7 gates. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes is a new release and available via all usual booksellers. Website: To join Katharine's mailing list for a fortnightly conversation piece about supporting children through school, it's . What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/41532405
info_outline
SATs, GCSEs And Exam Pressure: Are We Expecting Too Much From Our Kids?
05/26/2026
SATs, GCSEs And Exam Pressure: Are We Expecting Too Much From Our Kids?
Exam season can bring stress to the entire household. From slammed bedroom doors and sleepless nights to younger children already feeling the pressure of assessment before secondary school is even on the horizon. In this episode of Parental Control, Ellie Thompson is joined by education expert , author of , to unpack what exam pressure is really doing to our children, and to us as parents. Are SATs putting too much pressure on children far too young? How do anxiety, ADHD, autism and perfectionism change the way exam stress shows up? And how can parents support revision without becoming the household drill sergeant? With more than 20 years in education, Katharine shares practical, reassuring advice on spotting the signs a child is struggling, managing expectations, navigating post-exam meltdowns, and helping children build resilience without tying their self-worth to academic performance. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes is a new release and available via all usual booksellers. Website: To join Katharine's mailing list for a fortnightly conversation piece about supporting children through school, it's . What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/41422420
info_outline
Andy Day On Dinosaurs, Dad Life & Rock ’n’ Roll
05/18/2026
Andy Day On Dinosaurs, Dad Life & Rock ’n’ Roll
Andy Day is one of the UK’s most recognisable faces in children’s television, best known for sparking curiosity through his hugely popular Andy’s Adventures series. But beyond the dinosaurs, safari trips and underwater explorations, Andy is also a musician, author, performer and all-round creative force. On this episode of the My Baba Podcast, Ellie chats to Andy about life beyond the screen — from favourite films and bands to his real-life pop band Andy and the Odd Socks, writing bestselling children’s books, and the brand new adventures currently in the works. If your family loves Andy, or you’re simply curious about the man behind the khakis, this is a joyful listen. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes , by Andy Day. Illustrated by Alex Patrick. Availble from 18th June. Instagram: What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/41329790
info_outline
ADHD, Homework Battles & Medication Myths: What Parents Need To Know
05/06/2026
ADHD, Homework Battles & Medication Myths: What Parents Need To Know
From homework meltdowns and bedtime battles to the growing conversation around medication, parenting a child with ADHD can feel overwhelming, confusing, and often isolating. And for many families—especially those with girls—getting a diagnosis (and the right support) can take years. In this episode of Parental Control, we sit down with Dr Olivia Kessel, medical doctor, neurodiversity advocate, and author of , to unpack what ADHD really looks like behind the scenes. We cover the realities parents don’t always hear about: why homework becomes a nightly battle, how ADHD shows up differently in girls, the truth about medication stigma, and what’s actually going on in the brain when sleep becomes a struggle. Whether you’re navigating a diagnosis, stuck on a waiting list, or simply wondering if your child might have ADHD, this conversation offers clarity, reassurance, and practical insight you can actually use. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes , by Dr Olivia Kessel, £16.99 Dr Olivia on Insta: What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/41189780
info_outline
Joe Wicks Is Back In Schools! Picture News On The Big School Workout
04/14/2026
Joe Wicks Is Back In Schools! Picture News On The Big School Workout
Today we’re joined by Katie Harrison from , an organisation that’s been working closely with schools for years to help children engage with the world around them in a thoughtful, age-appropriate way. In this episode, we’re diving into something so many parents are thinking about right now — children’s mental health, and the role movement can play in supporting it. We’ll be talking about what’s really going on for children today, what schools are seeing on the ground, and why initiatives like The Big School Workout, taking place this Mental Health Awareness Week on 14th May, in partnership with Joe Wicks, are more important than ever. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes Join the live Insta What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/40868650
info_outline
The Travel Mum’s Guide To Stress-Free Travel With Kids
03/10/2026
The Travel Mum’s Guide To Stress-Free Travel With Kids
Travelling with children can feel overwhelming. From packing and planning to keeping little ones entertained on long journeys. But according to family travel expert Jen Carr, it doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. Jen is the founder of The Travel Mum, a hugely popular online platform where she shares some of the best affordable holiday deals for families throughout the week, alongside practical advice for travelling with children. Through her website and community, she has helped thousands of parents feel more confident about taking trips with their kids, from newborns to school age. Now, with the launch of her new book , Jen is on a mission to show parents that family travel really can be enjoyable — even with babies, toddlers and unpredictable schedules. In this interview, Jen shares her own experiences of travelling with children, the biggest fears parents have about family holidays, the money mistakes many families make when booking trips, and the simple mindset shifts that can make travelling with kids feel far more relaxed. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes - Out Now at Amazon: What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/40380515
info_outline
Women's Body Coach Emma Simarro On Training, Confidence, Hormones And Real Life
02/24/2026
Women's Body Coach Emma Simarro On Training, Confidence, Hormones And Real Life
There’s no shortage of advice telling women how they should look, eat or exercise — and it’s no wonder so many of us feel overwhelmed, confused or stuck when it comes to our bodies. In this episode, we’re joined by Emma Simarro, Women’s Health Coach and founder of , to cut through the noise and talk about what actually helps women feel strong, confident and well, especially through midlife. Emma’s work focuses on moving women away from restrictive diets and over-exercise, and towards strength, sustainable habits and long-term health. Drawing on her experience supporting women at every stage of life, she shares honest, practical advice on body confidence, strength training, nutrition, hormones and the mindset shifts that make lasting change possible. This is a reassuring, down-to-earth conversation for anyone who’s tired of fitness fads, frustrated by conflicting advice, or unsure where to begin — and a reminder that feeling good in your body doesn’t have to be complicated or punishing. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/40212505
info_outline
Why Relationships Break And How To Fix Them – With Sophie Orocozo
02/11/2026
Why Relationships Break And How To Fix Them – With Sophie Orocozo
Relationships don’t usually fall apart overnight. More often, they unravel slowly through miscommunication, unmet needs and emotional distance. When connection feels lost, many couples are left wondering whether their relationship can be repaired — or whether it’s already too late. In this episode of Parental Control, Ellie Thompson is joined by , a relationship coach whose work is rooted in both professional expertise and lived experience. After saving her own marriage from the brink of divorce, Sophie spent over a decade studying psychology, communication and intimacy dynamics to help couples rebuild connection from the ground up. Together, they explore what really happens when relationships reach breaking point, why traditional advice often falls short, and how couples can begin to repair trust, closeness and desire. This conversation looks beyond quick fixes, focusing instead on the deeper work required to create lasting change — and why it’s possible to turn a relationship around, even when it feels deeply stuck. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes Website Instagram TikTok Facebook What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/40072495
info_outline
Heavy Periods: What’s Normal, What’s Not, And When to Get Help
02/03/2026
Heavy Periods: What’s Normal, What’s Not, And When to Get Help
Heavy periods affect millions of women, yet for many, they remain something to quietly endure rather than openly discuss. In this episode, Parental Control explores the real impact of heavy and painful periods on women’s physical health, emotional wellbeing, work and relationships — and asks why period-related disruption is still so often dismissed or minimised. Ellie Thompson is joined by Dr Nisa Aslam, GP and women’s health expert, and Anna Maxwell, pharmacist and founder of healthcare brand Maxwellia, to unpack the findings of the Don’t Go With the Flow report. Together, they discuss what actually counts as a “normal” period, when pain or heavy bleeding may signal an underlying condition, and why so many women feel uncomfortable seeking help. From workplace stigma and iron deficiency to being dismissed by healthcare professionals, the conversation focuses on empowering women with clear information, reassurance and practical next steps — and challenges the long-held belief that period problems are simply something women should have to put up with. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes . Follow Dr Nisa Aslam on Insta What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/39977340
info_outline
Healthy Babies After Aneuploid Embryo Transfers? An Embryologist Explains IVF Headlines and Embryo Selection
01/19/2026
Healthy Babies After Aneuploid Embryo Transfers? An Embryologist Explains IVF Headlines and Embryo Selection
In this episode, Parental Control takes listeners inside the IVF lab to understand how embryos are assessed and selected during fertility treatment, including PGT-A and time-lapse IVF. Ellie Thompson is joined by embryologist and founder of , Victoria Wigley, to answer key questions about genetic testing, embryo development and the complex decisions made behind the scenes. Victoria explains what embryologists do during the IVF process and breaks down PGT-A testing, including what it can and cannot tell patients. She also discusses how recent reports of healthy babies born from embryos labelled aneuploid are challenging long-held assumptions. The conversation explores the difference between aneuploid and mosaic embryos, whether viable embryos may sometimes be ruled out, and how patients can interpret results when the science is uncertain. The episode also looks at how time-lapse incubators have transformed embryo observation, allowing embryologists to track development over time and support clinical decisions. Drawing on both professional expertise and patient experience, the discussion highlights how fertility specialists balance transparency, uncertainty and hope, and examines the advances shaping the future of IVF. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes Follow Victoria on Instagram: Book a consultation with Victoria today: What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/39781345
info_outline
Leading Psychotherapist Julia Samuel MBE Talks To Ellie About Losing Billy
01/06/2026
Leading Psychotherapist Julia Samuel MBE Talks To Ellie About Losing Billy
Leading UK psychotherapist Julia Samuel MBE joins Ellie Thompson to talk about child loss and the lifelong impact of grief. Julia is one of the most trusted voices in the UK on bereavement, trauma and healing, and has spent decades supporting families through the unimaginable. Her work has shaped how we understand grief, not as something to “get over”, but as something we learn to live alongside. As many listeners will know, Ellie lost her son Billy, aka Billy the Brave, to DIPG, and grief has since become woven into everyday life in ways she could never have imagined. Like so many bereaved parents, she has learned that we don’t move on from our children; we move forward carrying them with us. In this conversation, Julia brings compassion, clarity and deep insight as we explore what it truly means to live with grief: how it shows up in relationships, how siblings experience loss, and how parents can find moments of meaning and hope again — while continuing to hold the profound love we have for the children no longer in our arms. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes - Child Bereavement UK helps children and young people (up to the age of 25), parents and families, to rebuild their lives when a child grieves or when a child dies. Podcast — Julia’s main podcast Books – A compassionate guide to understanding grief and how it affects us. – On surviving life’s challenges and finding strength through adversity. – Exploring family relationships, trauma and healing. App - A supportive grief app offering tools, reflections and guidance for those living with loss. Social Media Instagram: X (Twitter): Website — for therapy work, writing, speaking and resources What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions, please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/39627810
info_outline
Your Strong Era Starts Now: Ryan Shanahan On Simple At-Home Fitness for Women
12/17/2025
Your Strong Era Starts Now: Ryan Shanahan On Simple At-Home Fitness for Women
Ellie welcomes world-renowned fitness trainer , best known globally as The Kettlebell King. With over 35 years of experience coaching everyone from elite athletes to absolute beginners, Ryan is famous for making fitness fun, fast and completely achievable. Ellie has trained with Ryan online since 2010, so she knows firsthand how his unique approach transforms not only bodies, but mindsets. In this episode, Ryan shares the philosophy behind his hugely popular training method, his early rise to global fame, and the insights from his two new books: Issues in Your Tissues and Muscles of the Mind: The Ripitude Method. Together, Ellie and Ryan explore sustainable fitness, movement for longevity, motivation that actually lasts, and why your mindset may be the most important muscle you ever train. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes Youtube & Book Link: Follow Ryan on Instagram , Laura Lynn Jackson What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/39438890
info_outline
Skincare That Actually Works + Should You Pluck, Shave or Laser? Part 2 With Valerie Millington
12/11/2025
Skincare That Actually Works + Should You Pluck, Shave or Laser? Part 2 With Valerie Millington
Welcome to Part 2 with Valerie Millington. In this episode, we dive deeper into safety within the aesthetics industry, what a truly effective at-home skincare routine should look like, and the real science behind hair and hair removal — including the big question: should you pluck, shave or laser? Ellie has known Val for years and, like so many of her loyal clients, trusts her implicitly. Val is known for her honesty, integrity and her unwavering commitment to natural, healthy skin. Her approach is rooted in education, skin health and treatments that support — not disguise — the skin. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes COSRX Instagram: What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/39370740
info_outline
The Truth About Skin Treatments: Botox, Fillers, Fat Dissolvers Part 1
12/08/2025
The Truth About Skin Treatments: Botox, Fillers, Fat Dissolvers Part 1
Ellie Thompson sits down with a dear friend and go-to skin expert, this week to discuss everything from fillers, botox, fat dissolvers, laser hair removal and more. Ellie has known Val for years, and like so many of her loyal clients, she trusts her completely. Val is known for her honesty, her integrity, and her deep commitment to natural, healthy skin. Val focuses on education, skin health, and treatments that truly support the skin rather than mask it. In this episode, Val and Ellie dive into all things skin: what actually works, what’s a waste of money, the biggest mistakes people make, how to care for skin at every age, and why healthy skin never needs overdoing. Welcome to part one of a warm, honest, myth-busting episode with a woman who has devoted her career to understanding skin, and isn’t afraid to tell the truth about what really works. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes Valerie Millington's website: Valerie Millington's Instagram: What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/39321345
info_outline
Coping With Christmas After Child Loss: A Conversation With Child Bereavement UK
11/28/2025
Coping With Christmas After Child Loss: A Conversation With Child Bereavement UK
Today’s episode is one that sits incredibly close to Ellie’s heart, as she discusses coping with Christmas after child loss. As many listeners will know, Ellie lost her beautiful boy Billy to DIPG, and this is her second Christmas without him. The festive season can bring a complex mix of emotions for bereaved parents, the memories, the empty space, and the pressure to appear “festive” when the heart is somewhere else entirely. In this episode, Ellie is joined by Bereavement Support Service Lead Rachel Tegg from for an open, gentle and honest conversation about what it means to face Christmas after losing a child. Whether someone is in their first year, their fifth year or anywhere in between, this discussion offers comfort, understanding and the reminder that no parent walks this path alone. Content Warning This episode includes discussion around the death of a child, grief and the emotional challenges of Christmas. Listeners are encouraged to take care of themselves while listening and to step away at any time if needed. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes Child Bereavement UK - Helpful Resources Helpline Number: 0800 02 888 40. Normal Opening Hours: Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm Christmas Opening Hours: Friday 24th December, 9.00 am – 1.30 pm Saturday 25th December - Tuesday 28th December, Closed Wednesday 29th December - Friday 31st December, 10.00 am - 4.00 pm Monday 3rd January, Closed Tuesday 4th January onwards, Normal hours 9.00 am – 5.00 pm Email: Website: (Live Chat support and other resources can be found here) Managing Christmas Resource: What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/39196560
info_outline
Sexpert Samantha Marshall Talks Self-Pleasure, Sexual Wellness And Vibrators
11/18/2025
Sexpert Samantha Marshall Talks Self-Pleasure, Sexual Wellness And Vibrators
One of the most-searched questions in sexual wellness today is “Why are vibrators healthy?” — and few people are better positioned to answer it than Samantha Marshall, Head of Brand at . As a leader in the global intimate-wellness space, Sam has spent the past five years helping redefine pleasure as an important part of self-care. Under her leadership, Smile Makers’ colourful, wellness-driven vibrators and tools have entered mainstream retailers like Sephora, Ulta, and Selfridges, pushing the conversation around sexual wellbeing further into the open. Sam also leads Vulva Talks, Smile Makers’ free, pleasure-positive sex-education programme, where she offers clear, accessible guidance on everything from self-pleasure to understanding your body. Her work directly addresses why vibrators can support sexual health — from boosting confidence to reducing stress and improving body awareness. In today’s episode, we explore sexual wellness, self-pleasure, and how changing the narrative around intimacy empowers people to build healthier relationships with their bodies. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes Debby Herbernick: Instagram: What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/39077310
info_outline
Baby Blues Or Something More? Laura Guckian Explains All
11/11/2025
Baby Blues Or Something More? Laura Guckian Explains All
This week on the podcast, Ellie Thompson is joined by , motherhood coach, award-winning host of , and ambassador for perinatal mental health charity . Combining lived experience with expert insight, Laura has supported thousands of women to navigate the realities of motherhood with more confidence, compassion, and care. In this conversation, we discuss the moments that matter most in early parenthood, from recognising when your mental health needs support to understanding how partners can truly help. Laura shares practical advice on navigating neurodiversity, setting boundaries around social media, and building a self-care plan that actually fits into real life. We also tackle tricky topics like postnatal depression, relationship dynamics, and how to support a friend who might be struggling. If you’re a new parent, a partner, or simply want to understand the messy, beautiful reality of life after birth, this episode is worth a listen. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes Follow Laura Guckian on . What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/38991055
info_outline
Cosmic Kids’ Jaime Amor On Yoga For Kids & Behind The Scenes Of Her New Hit Sky TV Show
11/04/2025
Cosmic Kids’ Jaime Amor On Yoga For Kids & Behind The Scenes Of Her New Hit Sky TV Show
This week on the podcast, Ellie Thompson catches up with the brilliant Jaime Amor, the creative force behind Cosmic Kids Yoga, and now star of her brand-new Sky Kids Original series, Jaime’s Yoga Adventures. If you’ve ever done a downward dog with your little ones, you’ll already know Jaime — her YouTube channel has inspired millions of children to move, stretch, and breathe through storytelling. And now, she’s bringing that same magic to television, blending adventure, mindfulness, and movement in a fun, family-friendly format. In this episode, we chat about Jaime’s Yoga Adventures, the power of storytelling to help children connect with their emotions, and how yoga can build strength, balance, and resilience — both physically and mentally. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes Follow Cosmic Kids on and . What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/38905705
info_outline
The Secret To Gut Health At Any Age – With Dr Megan Rossi
10/28/2025
The Secret To Gut Health At Any Age – With Dr Megan Rossi
This week on the podcast, Leonora Bamford catches up with the incredible Dr Megan Rossi, aka . Dr Rossi isn’t just a Sunday Times bestselling author – she also holds a PhD in Probiotics and is one of the UK’s leading experts on gut health. In this episode, we talk about how to improve gut health at any age, with everyday, family-friendly tips you can actually use. From understanding how your gut affects mood, energy, and immunity to clever ways to introduce kids to gut-friendly foods (yes, even picky eaters!), this episode is packed with practical advice and myth-busting insights. Dr Rossi also shares the truth about supplements, the gut–brain connection (those butterflies in your tummy really do mean something), and why feeding your gut microbes with the “Super 6” – wholegrains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and seeds – is key to lifelong health. It’s an inspiring, science-backed conversation that’ll leave you wanting to give your gut the love it deserves. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/38806085
info_outline
Fran Amber On Manifesting Abundance, Motherhood, And A Mortage-Free Life
10/14/2025
Fran Amber On Manifesting Abundance, Motherhood, And A Mortage-Free Life
Ellie Thompson is joined by the amazing , the viral manifesting mum behind the chart-topping Law of Attraction Changed My Life podcast. Fran joins the show to talk about her new book, Manifest Like A Mother (out 4 September). After losing her businesses and becoming a single mum, Fran used manifesting to rebuild her life into a thriving brand, near-sold-out tour, and millions of downloads—and she’s sharing exactly how. In this episode, we dig into: chore therapy (turning chores into self-care), setting clear goals with gratitude, cyclical living, creating a supportive environment, making the ordinary feel special, and reframing money to release old beliefs. If you’ve ever thought you’re “too busy” to manifest, this one’s for you. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes Rhonda Byrne , Francesca Amber , Dr Eben Alexander, URL: IG Podcast What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions, please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/38577835
info_outline
Why Is My Baby Not Sleeping? The Baby Sleep GP Reveals All
09/23/2025
Why Is My Baby Not Sleeping? The Baby Sleep GP Reveals All
Host Ellie Thompson welcomes GP and certified paediatric sleep consultant Francesca Brewer, founder of P, to answer a question every parent asks: why is my baby not sleeping? Drawing on 15+ years of medical experience, Francesca shares safe sleep guidelines, how to manage baby sleep during illness and after vaccinations, and the medical causes of poor sleep in infants and toddlers. The conversation also explores the impact of sleep deprivation on the mental health of children and parents, with practical steps to build calmer nights and healthier routines. Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes For more information or to contact Dr Francesca Brewer, head to Follow on Instagram . This podcast episode was sponsored by . What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/38326350
info_outline
Fighting for Change—Brain Cancer Justice With Billy The Brave & Gorgeous George
09/09/2025
Fighting for Change—Brain Cancer Justice With Billy The Brave & Gorgeous George
On this week’s episode, we’re joined by Louise Fox, a mother who has turned unimaginable personal loss into a powerful force for change. Louise’s son George was a bright, animal-loving 12-year-old when he began having headaches that were repeatedly dismissed as harmless. Eleven months later, he died from an aggressive brain tumour. In the years since, Louise has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for , supported the and co-founded the Angel Mums collective to improve paediatric palliative care. She’s now a leading voice in , a campaign demanding serious government investment and better care for brain cancer patients. Brain Cancer Justice We’ll talk to Louise about how she and her family navigated those first terrifying weeks of misdiagnosis, what she learned about the shortcomings of current treatments and why she’s fighting to make genome sequencing and clinical trials available to every child with a brain tumour. We’ll hear about George’s character and the community of “Gorgeous George” supporters who’ve kept his memory alive, and ask Louise what policy changes she believes could help transform brain cancer from terminal to treatable. Sign the . Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes Sign the . Instagram Links What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/38140495
info_outline
ADHD In Early Childhood: An Educational Psychologist’s Guide For Parents
08/19/2025
ADHD In Early Childhood: An Educational Psychologist’s Guide For Parents
ADHD in early childhood can be difficult to recognise, and many parents have questions about what’s typical behaviour and what might need further support. In this episode of the My Baba podcast, host Ellie Thompson speaks with , a Senior Educational Psychologist with over 19 years’ experience in the education system, about the early signs of ADHD in little ones, and the important role schools play in the diagnosis journey. About Dr Sasha Hall Dr Sasha Hall is a Senior Educational Psychologist with over 19 years of experience in the education system. She began her career as a nursery nurse before moving into primary teaching, later embarking on a professional doctorate in Education and Child Psychology in 2010. Sasha now divides her time between working as a Senior Educational Psychologist for a local authority and running her own private practice. Alongside this, she is the Lead Visitor for the HCPC and a guest lecturer and fieldwork tutor at several of London’s leading universities. Follow Dr Hall on Instagram: Email us at Follow us on Instagram and Show notes Follow Dr Hall on Instagram: What is My Baba? My Baba provides the daily scoop on family, food and lifestyle - we’re not just experts at all things parenting. Visit The Content on this podcast is provided by My Baba and represents our sole opinions and views. For more information on our terms and conditions please refer to the website:
/episode/index/show/mybaba/id/37875915