Brummie Mummies

For lots of families, rising costs mean we can only afford to do one festive event this Christmas. So you really need to make it count. Today I’m joined by Olivia Shepard, a teacher and event organiser at Statfold Country Park for her tips on making one event the focus of a whole month of festive activities - without spending an extra penny. Find out more about Statfold’s Magical Santa Express by visiting Statfold.com You can download or stream all our Brummie Mummies episodes on all major podcasting platforms, including Spotify and Apple. Please share this episode with anyone you think might find it useful, follow Brummie Mummies on social media and sign up to our free newsletter. See you next time!

Liz Deutsch was just six weeks old when she was discovered in a shopping basket under a hedge in Edgbaston. She’d been abandoned in hand-knitted clothes. Remarkably, with the help of the Birmingham Mail and the ITV show Long Lost Family: Born Without Trace, Liz has managed to track down her family decades later - but it’s led to even more questions. Liz is sharing her story in a bid to help others trying to trace long lost family members.

The number of children being referred to NHS mental health services in England for anxiety has hit the highest level ever recorded, according to a Guardian investigation. Our guest today is mum-of-three Esther Marshall whose beloved sister Rebecca committed suicide as a result of anxiety. She has bravely turned this into something positive in a bid to help children avoid harmful stereotypes - creating a series of children’s books called Sophie Says which celebrate a world where kids grow up never doubting whether they are included. Having worked in diversity and inclusion for Unilever, Esther was shocked when she went on maternity leave and discovered a lack of diversity in the books she read to her son Asher so she decided to write her own books showing that both girls and boys can achieve anything that they set their minds to and that it’s sometimes okay not to be okay.

In our frenetic lives, boredom seems to be something that should be avoided at all times but what impact is that having on our children? We talk to teacher and mental health expert Laura Tristram, who says that actually a child complaining about boredom can be a good thing

What age should children start thinking about their future careers? It's never too early, argues headteacher Sophia Haughton on the Brummie Mummies podcast. The Heartlands Academy headteacher tells our host Zoe Chamberlain about how parents and schools can help kids find their dream career.

Headteacher Raj Mann tells us all about how to navigate year 11! This episode is packed full of useful tips for parents who's children are tackling their final year of school.

Menopause is something that affects everyone, either directly or indirectly, and it’s good to know about it well in advance so that you can spot the signs and take the best course of action for you. This week's guest is Dr Sarah Ball, a GP who runs the Health in Menopause Clinic in Sutton Coldfield. Sarah is keen to dispel myths and stigmas around HRT and mental health and her advice is valuable for anyone looking to stay happy and healthy throughout the menopause and into later life.

Maxine Nwaneri shares all. She sits down with Zoe to tell us her incredible life story, how she overcame hardship and how she finds balance as a working mum.

In this immersive episode RSPB's Lucy Lapwing talks us through how to identify birdsong, and talks all about the joy it brings.

Today we're joined by Brummie blogger Lavania Oluban who loves taking her son Arlo for day trips to London, and always travels there by train. Check out her top tips for places to go, money saving hacks and ideas for making it stress-free for everybody. Discover more of her suggestions on the Brummie Mummies Facebook and Instagram pages and on Lavania’s blog arloriverrex.com And find out how to save money on train and attraction tickets via the London Northwestern Railway website www.londonnorthwesternrailway.co.uk

Zoe is joined by Mari-Carmen, a fitness coach and a specialist in women's health, to chat about how mums can stay fit and healthy (and happy) with the little ones around. You can find out more about Mari-Carmen Fitness here: https://www.maricarmenfitness.com/ Brummie Mummies is a Reach production, brought to you by Birmingham Live and Brummie Mummies. Hosted by Zoe Chamberlain.

Zoe finds out how to be the grown up with Dr Martha Deiros Collado. Brummie Mummies is a Reach production, brought to you by Birmingham Live and Brummie Mummies. Hosted by Zoe Chamberlain.

Zoe’s guest this week is Danielle Grey, who has recently opened the Purple House Clinic in Birmingham. This centre specialises in offering mental health and neurodiversity services for children and adults. As a clinical psychologist, she’s passionate about the importance of promoting mental health for young people and their families. The Brummie Mummies podcast is brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe Chamberlain.

This week’s guest is Sadie Jones, a remarkable woman who experienced domestic violence both as a child and an adult and ended up homeless and living in hostels. But she transformed her life by empowering herself through fitness, food and feeling good. In 2021, she founded She Beasts in a bid to help other women enduring trauma to become their best selves. Together, they’ve gone from strength to strength and her community is growing to help more and more women and children. Sadie shares all in this episode. The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe Chamberlain.

This week’s guest is Mehreen Baig - a former teacher, examiner, writer and broadcaster who is best known for her Saturday afternoon show on BBC's Asian Network. Mehreen has launched an innovative education-meets-entertainment series on Youtube called Glow Up Your Grades - made for a generation whose education was disrupted by the Covid pandemic aimed at filling the gap in GSCE learning and helping students succeed. Mehreen shares loads of great advice to help students prepare for their exams and boost mental health and wellbeing at the same time. The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe Chamberlain.

Zoe is joined by family blogger Lavania Oluban as they discuss all the amazing events happening around Birmingham and the Midlands this Christmas and New Year - including some free and cheap festivities too! Check out our guides to grottos, events, ice rinks, festive trains, light trails and more on the Brummie Mummies Facebook page and on the BirminghamLive website. Also head over to Lavania’s blog arloriverrex.com to see more of Lavania’s adventures with her son.

Tiktoker Emma Roberts, known online as Organised by Em talks us through some of her best tips and tricks for how to be an organised mum.

We love supporting family businesses on the Brummie Mummies Podcast - and we love saving money! That’s why we’ve invited Laura from My Baby Stroller onto this week’s episode to ask her for all her dos and don’ts when it comes to buying for a newborn. You can read more about My Baby Stroller on the BirminghamLive website and on the Brummie Mummies FB page. Find out more via Laura’s website MyBabyStroller.co.uk too.

In this episode Zoe chats to campaigner Alison Cope - It has been 10 years since Alison lost her only son Joshua Ribera, who was known and loved by thousands as rapper Depzman. Joshua was stabbed outside a nightclub in Selly Oak. He was just 18. Alison has spent the last decade striving to empower thousands of young people and help them feel safe on the streets. Her warmth, strength, energy and passion is truly inspirational.  You can read more about Alison on the BLive website and on the Brummie Mummies FB page. Find out more about her tireless work and get in touch with Alison through her website AlisonCope.com The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe Chamberlain Produced and edited by Matt Millard

In part two of our chat with Danielle Manton-Kelly, the early years expert shares loads of great weaning tips. The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe Chamberlain, produced and edited by Matt Millard

Often in life, our greatest challenges turn out to be our biggest achievements. That was certainly the case for this week’s guest Danielle Manton-Kelly. Her life turned upside down when she became pregnant at university, but with the support of her housemates who helped her care for her baby, Danielle completed her degree. Danielle had her second child just after qualifying as a teacher and her third after starting her own business. Now happily married with a fourth baby. Now better known as The Enchanted Nanny joins Zoe to talk about the strength those early days of single parenthood gave her and how she now creates unique spaces for little ones to be creative, brave and curious through play, songs and storytelling. Her son Will joined us on the call and had plenty to say too! The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe Chamberlain Produced and edited by Matt Millard

The first day at school is a huge milestone - both for our children and for us as parents. This episode is all about how you can  prepare your child for that moment they walk into reception for the first time. This week's guest, David Barker is headteacher at The Oaklands Primary School in Acocks Green so he has lots of experience in seeing children arrive on their first day. We invited him onto the podcast to talk about what skills families should try to develop over the summer before starting school and what to do on that very first morning. The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe Chamberlain.

This week’s guest is none other than Casey Major Bunce, aka Major Mum Hacks! Her videos have proved to be game changers for so many parents as she offers simple ways to cut costs, reduce stress and save money. Casey says her love of hacks comes from her mum who was in a wheelchair and so had to find ways to adapt to make all of their lives easier. Casey discusses how she breaks through that mum guilt and need for perfection we sometimes feel, highlighting that having fun with your kids should always be our top priority! Follow Major Mum Hacks on Instagram for loads of Casey’s tips. The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe Chamberlain Produced and edited by Matt Millard

We welcome Gemma Bird back to the show - known to hundreds of thousands of parents on Instagram and TikTok as Money Mum. School holidays are always expensive, so we wanted to know how Gemma makes her money stretch further when the kids are at home. She shares great tricks, hacks and tips for making the holidays fun and affordable for everyone. You can read more Gemma’s tips and discover loads of free and cheap things to do around Brum on the BirminghamLive website and on the Brummie Mummies FB page. Follow Gemma’s daily tips on Instagram and TikTok - just search MoneyMumOfficial. The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe Chamberlain Produced and edited by Matt Millard

We help you get prepared for the summer holidays as host Zoe Chamberlain welcomes producer Matt onto the show to run through her guide to the best beaches within easy reach of Birmingham. The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe Chamberlain Produced and edited by Matt Millard

This week’s guest is breastfeeding mentor Danielle Facey, who is on a mission to empower mums by encouraging them to do whatever is best for them and their baby in those precious early days and weeks. We invited her onto the show to talk all about the best ways to prepare, what mums should do if they are struggling, how partners can help out and why no-one should feel guilty about the way they choose to feed their baby. You can read more Danielle’s tips and discover parent-recommended places to breastfeed around Brum on the BirminghamLive website and on the Brummie Mummies Facebook page and you can find out more about Danielle via her website thebreastfeedingmentor.com The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe Chamberlain Produced and edited by Matt Millard

Zoe’s guest today is Farah Kawal, who runs Toddlers Den nursery in Bordesley Green. Farah knows how parents feel when they drop off their babies and children and she is full of reassuring advice to make things easier, not just for the kids but mostly for the parents too! The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe Chamberlain Produced and edited by Matt Millard

This week’s guest, Suzanne Alderson, has lived through every parent’s worst nightmare. After sustained bullying at school, Suzanne’s daughter Issy revealed that she was planning to take her own life. She was just 14. In one of her darkest moments, she decided she never wanted another parent to feel as alone as she did. The Solihull mum set up the charity Parenting Mental Health, enabling families to share their questions and experiences in a safe space. Suzanne chats to Zoe and tells her all about the charity that has now helped more than 37,000 families. She also shares the signs parents should look out for and how to help, not only a child, but the whole family through a mental health crisis. Find out more by visiting parentingmentalhealth.org The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe Chamberlain Produced and edited by Matt Millard

Sleep. It’s probably the one thing we parents discuss constantly and the thing we dread about having a newborn. Sleep like a baby? We have no idea why we say that when every bleary eyed parent knows that babies don’t sleep through the night! So how can we help our children get to sleep, whether they are babies, toddlers, school-kids or teenagers? This week’s guest is sleep consultant Lisa Lamb, better known as the Night Ninja, she shares loads of tips for helping everyone in the family get a good night’s rest. You can read more of Lisa’s advice on the Birmingham Live website and on the Brummie Mummies facebook page and via Lisa’s website nightninja.co. The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe Chamberlain Produced and edited by Matt Millard

This week’s guest is none other than Youtube English teacher sensation Mr Salles. Mr Salles offers tips, guides and suggestions on how to pass English GCSEs. He sits the exams himself to figure out exactly what kids need to do to get the top grades. Then he tells them how to do it. It’s as simple as that. A father himself, Mr Salles talks about why he started sharing videos on Youtube, how they went on to have millions of hits, his children’s own experiences in education and invaluable advice on how to make the whole learning experience more pleasurable for everyone. If you have a child who hates English or feels they aren’t good at writing, then this episode is for you. The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe Chamberlain Produced and edited by Matt Millard

If you feel your child may have additional needs or you are already embarking on the SEND journey (special education needs and disabilities) then this podcast is for you. Today’s guest, Emma Pinnock, has been a teacher for more than 20 years, much of which was spent working in special needs education. Following the birth of her son Alex, who has down syndrome, Emma Pinnock set up a consultancy called Essential Education Group based in Birmingham, offering families practical advice on navigating the SEND journey. In this episode Emma shares some of that inside knowledge and personal experience to help you make sure you’re getting the best support for your child. Find out more by visiting Emma’s website emmapinnock.co.uk The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe Chamberlain Produced and edited by Matt Millard

This week’s guest is Georgie Moseley, who has dedicated her life to the Help Harry Help Others charity, which was set up in her son’s memory. Georgie is well-known and much-loved in Birmingham for carrying on the legacy of her son Harry, who raised money for others whilst battling cancer himself. When he sadly died in 2011, aged just 11, Georgie and her children vowed to continue the Help Harry Help Others charity. Zoe chats to Georgie to find out where she gets her drive, passion and motivation to keep pushing to support more families. You can read more about Georgie Moseley on the BirminghamLive website and on the Brummie Mummies Facebook page and you can find out more about her charity via her website hhho.org.uk . The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe Chamberlain Produced and edited by Matt Millard

How can we encourage our kids to help us save on the bills? And is getting them to do this a good life lesson for them? In this episode we hear from Dawn Baker from Home Start Birmingham, a charity that helps families in crisis. She has helped hundreds of families get on top of their finances over the years and has loads of great ideas on how you can get the kids involved in making your money go further. Find out more about Home Start by visiting the website www.homestartbirmingham.co.uk The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe Chamberlain Produced and edited by Matt Millard

Today we’re talking to Kerry Beale from reading charity Coram Beanstalk about why reading is so important in every aspect of life. She has lots of tips on how to get even the most reluctant of readers to read. You can find out more about how to volunteer with Coram Beanstalk on the website  www.corambeanstalk.org.uk and there are lots more reading tips on our Brummie Mummies FB and Instagram pages and on the BirminghamLive website. The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe Chamberlain Produced and edited by Matt Millard

What would happen if we just left our kids to their own devices, to maybe get a little bored like we did when we were kids? This week’s guest, Adele Cleaver, is an author, play-worker and mum of two who believes that children should be given space to make their own play. Her book Children Don’t Dissolve in the Rain is all about encouraging kids to do their own thing and how parents shouldn’t feel the need to overstimulate them. Adele says it’s ok for us, as parents, to just step back and let them get on with it, even if they fail, because this learning will set them in good stead for the future. Find out all about freedom and play in this episode! You can find out more about Adele on our Brummie Mummies FB and Instagram pages and on the BirminghamLive website and by visiting her website www.bigblueplay.org/shop.  The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe Chamberlain Produced and edited by Matt Millard

Teaching your children to have a healthy relationship with social media and their phones Social media can feel like a perilous activity for kids to navigate but it can actually be a positive and powerful experience when used correctly. This week’s guest is Jamie Barton, headteacher of the Jewellery Quarter Academy and he has a wealth of tips and suggestions for parents trying to keep their children safe online. Discover more about keeping your kids safe online on our Brummie Mummies FB and Instagram pages and on the BirminghamLive website. The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe Chamberlain Produced and edited by Matt Millard

Everyone is feeling the impact of the rising costs of living, whether it’s increasing utility bills or finding it harder to put food on the table each day. In this episode Zoe Chamberlain is joined by Rafa Ahmed, project manager at Feedo Needo, a food bank in Digbeth, Birmingham, where volunteers are seeing just how much the cost of living crisis is affecting families. She shares how families can make their food stretch further with lots of shopping and cooking tips, plus information on available support to ensure no-one ever feels alone during this troubling time. You can find out more about Feedo Needo and how you can get help, support and friendship there plus how to volunteer and donate too via the website  Feedoneedo.org.uk The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe Chamberlain Produced and edited by Matt Millard

In this episode, find out how Corrina Sheppard went from being a stay at home mum of four, to securing the job of her dreams! Corinna didn’t think she would have the time or the qualifications to get into a hospital job - let alone trying to figure out what she’d need for childcare.Today the 28 year old from Walsall is a Swan Champion on a stroke ward, where she helps support people going through end-of-life and bereavement care. And she couldn’t be happier, thanks to free courses available through the Prince’s Trust.Give this episode a listen to learn all about it!You can find out more about the Prince’s Trust Get Into Hospital Services programme on the website which is princestrust.org.ukThe Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe ChamberlainProduced and edited by Matt Millard

Frida Kahlo was a flamboyant trailblazer and feminist, who sought out the joy in every moment despite the cruelties life threw at her. So it is fitting that the new The Life and Work of Frida Kahlo exhibition at The Reel Store in Coventry is equally flamboyant and trailblazing.In this episode, Zoe talks to the exhibition’s artistic director Carla Prat Perxachs, who tells us all about the exhibition’s immersive experience, along with discussing Frida’s courage, resilience and love of life.The Life and Work of Frida Kahlo exhibition is at the Reel Store in Coventry until January 29, 2023. Go check it out. Find out more on the website www.coventry2021.co.ukThe Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.Hosted by Zoe ChamberlainProduced and edited by Matt Millard

If you’re feeling the need for a bit of R&R then you’ve come to the right place. Join Birmingham yoga teacher Kate Forde as she shares a Yogi Birds relaxation session that will lift your spirits and leave you ready to face the rest of your day. Enjoy!Kate runs Yogi Birds classes in Birmingham and hosts workshops in schools too. Find out more about Kate on the BirminghamLive website, the Brummie Mummies FB page and by searching for Yogi Birds Yoga on Facebook and Instagram.The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe ChamberlainProduced and edited by Matt Millard

In this episode we have a very special treat for you. We know that family life is hectic and sometimes it can feel overwhelming. That’s why we asked Kate Forde if she could help us out.Kate runs Yogi Birds Yoga teaching yoga and relaxation to pregnant mums, mothers and babies, kids and teens. For her, it’s about getting everyone to take a moment’s pause to stop, breathe and relax.Zoe chats to the mum-of-two who believes that society doesn’t teach children, or parents, the importance of rest and relaxation but that it is a vital skill to have in everyday life.In this episode there is also a special meditation taster session for you to sit back and enjoy. PLUS make sure to check out our bonus episode which includes a full meditation session with Kate!The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe ChamberlainProduced and edited by Matt Millard

Want to know how to budget for school trips, save on school uniform, make days out affordable, have a great Christmas without spending a fortune and even how to chip away at your mortgage? Well, this week’s guest has the savvy know-how to do just that.Zoe chats with Gemma Bird, who is best known to hundreds of thousands of parents on Insta and TikTok as Money Mum. Find out the tricks Gemma has up her sleeve for us when it comes to paying the bills and having some left over to enjoy ourselves The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe ChamberlainProduced and edited by Matt Millard

In this special episode of Brummie Mummies, Zoe visits Oasis Academy in Short Heath Birmingham to talk to mums about the struggles they are facing due to the cost of living crisis.The school has an amazing community hub, helping parents with everything from food and finances to a warm place to talk with fellow mums and dads. In this episode you’ll also hear from the hub’s leader Pam Atwell who talks about the amazing initiatives being introduced to support families.The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe ChamberlainProduced and edited by Matt Millard

In this episode we chat to Raj Mann, headteacher at Arena Academy in Great Barr. He has loads of practical suggestions on what families can do to prepare for parents' evening.The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe ChamberlainProduced and edited by Matt Millard

It’s the 2022 Brummie Mummies Christmas guide! In this episode you can hear all about the amazing things happening in Birmingham and the Midlands during this year’s festive season. Zoe and producer Matt talk about all things Christmas, sharing top tips and what they’re most looking forward to this year.We’ve put together a guide to all the events we mentioned - you can find it on the BirminghamLive website and on the Brummie Mummies Facebook page.The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe ChamberlainProduced and edited by Matt Millard

Made By Dyslexia founder Kate Griggs is calling for all teachers to be trained in dyslexic thinking.She believes dyslexia is a superpower, stemming from an innate source of creativity and big picture thinking - and that our future workforces need these strengths far more than the rote learning that takes place in schools.In this episode Kate shares how to spot the signs that your child might be dyslexic and what we can do as parents to help nurture their brilliance if they are.You can find out more about Kate’s campaign in her books on the Made By Dyslexia Youtube channel and gets lots of advice on her website madebydyslexia.orgThe Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe ChamberlainProduced and edited by Matt Millard

At just 22, Sophie Rodgers was diagnosed with cervical cancer and her treatment, whilst thankfully helping her to go into remission, plunged her into early menopause.Sophie discovered the benefits of yoga, meditation and crystals and found them so healing she wanted to share them with others.She now runs yoga classes and offers advice on meditation and mindfulness from a hidden away crystal healing cabin in Tamworth.In this episode Zoe chats with Sophie to find out more about how we can all incorporate a little more harmony into our lives.Find our more about Sophie’s yoga classes and crystal shop by visiting her website highvibealignment.com The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe ChamberlainProduced and edited by Matt Millard

What are the three things you love to do every day? That’s a question we ask all of our guests. In this episode we look back at some of the incredible suggestions from our guests, find out what gives them a great routine, a perfect start and end to each day and what helps them to tackle all the things that being a parent brings. The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live. Hosted by Zoe ChamberlainProduced and edited by Matt Millard

Moving from primary to high school is a big step for any child. But there are steps we can take as parents to help make the transition as smooth and easy as possible. Zoe talks to Rebecca Bakewell, headteacher at City Academy near Birmingham city centre, who has loads of practical suggestions on what families can do to prepare.Find out how to inspire confidence in your kids for that all important first day and for all the weeks and months that follow.The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.Hosted by Zoe ChamberlainProduced and edited by Matt Millard

Have you ever had the feeling you want more but you’re not sure what it is you’re looking for?Laura Best tells us her story and shares all on the Passion Collective, a place where women from across the world can come together for virtual social events to empower and support each other. For Laura, it’s all about a sense of belonging. The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.Hosted by Zoe ChamberlainProduced and edited by Matt Millard

In this episode Zoe is joined by family blogger Lavania Oluban and they’re talking all things summer.School holidays are expensive so we talk about some free and cheap places to go, how we save money on days out, plus some hidden places you might not have heard about before.You can read our full guide on our Brummie Mummies Facebook page and on the BirminghamLive website. Also head over to Lavania’s blog www.arloriverrex.com to see more of her adventures with her son Arlo.The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.Hosted by Zoe ChamberlainProduced and edited by Matt Millard

We all love holidays but, let’s face it, when you have kids, it becomes a whole load more complicated. If the thought of a long drive, train journey or flight is putting you off the idea of travelling with your kids, then give this episode a listen - We encourage you to rethink how you plan your break. Zoe chats to our producer Matt Millard about an epic adventure she took with her kids in Spring - an American road trip, visiting nine states in a Cruise America RV in just two weeks!A once-in-a-lifetime trip like this is on lots of people’s bucket lists but if you’ve felt it’s just too out of reach or impractical, this episode will provide you with lots of tips on planning, budgeting and keeping everyone happy on the road.The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.Hosted by Zoe ChamberlainProduced and edited by Matt Millard

Many of us can only imagine how difficult it was to have a baby during the global pandemic lockdowns. As parents, we’re still feeling the aftermath of that with all of our kids, but what was it like to be a new mum unable to get out and about with your baby? And what effect has that had on our little ones?Today Zoe is talking to Birmingham mum Priya Chauhan who had a baby and a toddler during lockdown and Davinder Jandu who is headteacher at Yarnfield Primary School in Tyseley, who talks about how she has seen the impact of the pandemic on children starting school.They both share their experiences and the positives that have come out of that and they offer a myriad of tips for mums and dads who can see that the pandemic has impacted on their children’s lives.The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.Hosted by Zoe ChamberlainProduced and edited by Matt Millard

In this episode Zoe introduces a festival she’s been to nearly every year for 13 years with her kids.The Just So Festival is the brainchild of two mums - Sarah Bird and Rowan Cannon - who loved the idea of taking their kids to festivals but found the reality wasn’t quite so much fun. So they decided to do it on their own terms. We hear from Sarah Bird to find out more.You can discover more about the Just So Festival by visiting the website justsofestival.org.uk.The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.Hosted by Zoe ChamberlainProduced and edited by Matt Millard

We’re all feeling stretched when it comes to paying the bills and putting food on the table at the moment as the cost of living continues to rise.Today Zoe is joined by Dawn Baker from Home Start Birmingham, a charity that helps families in crisis.Dawn has helped hundreds of families get on top of their finances over the years and has loads of innovative ideas on making your money go further - and how to get help if you need it.Find out more about Home Start by visiting the website www.homestartbirmingham.co.ukThe Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.Hosted by Zoe ChamberlainProduced and edited by Matt Millard

With rising fuel prices, many of us are thinking twice about using the car. But would you be brave enough to ditch your car completely, especially when you’ve got kids?This week’s guest Ruth Cumming did exactly that - and she has four young children!She says that instead of feeling restricted, the family now feel liberated and enjoy working out how they can get from A to B by bike, on foot and via public transport.Hear Ruth’s great tips for going car-free and saving cash!The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.Hosted by Zoe ChamberlainProduced and edited by Matt Millard

How do you help your child to do their best in their exams without them getting too overwhelmed in the process? It’s a fine balance, says this week's guest Nicola Lappage. She’s an assistant principal and history teacher at Ninestiles Academy in Acocks Green and has helped hundreds of children through their GCSEs.Nicola shares advice on revision timetables, how much needs to be done each day, tools for revising, how to support your child and more.The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.Hosted by Zoe ChamberlainProduced and edited by Matt Millard

Zoe talks to Birmingham MP Jess Phillips about motherhood and why family and friends are so important to her. Jess opens up about her childhood, being a young mum, having an abortion, the impact of losing her mother and what it’s like to be a working mum in Westminster.You can read our interview with Jess Phillips on our Brummie Mummies Facebook page and on the BirminghamLive website. Find out more about Jess’s book Mother at poundproject.co.uk.The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.Hosted by Zoe ChamberlainProduced and edited by Matt Millard

Brummie Mummies has called on the help of expert declutterer Victoria Trevor who is bursting with ideas on how you can get rid of your clutter and, more importantly, stay on top of it afterwards - even if you have little ones running around messing it all up!Victoria shares her great tips for encouraging tidying habits amongst every family member, including using constellation charts, labels, reverse gifting and storage, to help you to love your home again.The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.

In this episode we’re talking to an amazing mum about her family’s healing journey from devastating trauma. Sinead Soffe’s life changed forever the moment a house fire engulfed her baby Elizabeth as she slept in her cot. Elizabeth suffered third degree burns over 60 percent of her body.Since then Elizabeth has undergone more than 70 operations at Birmingham Children’s Hospital, but she and her family face the world with smiles of their faces, determined to make the most out of every day.Elizabeth was recently named a Child of Courage at The Pride Of Birmingham Awards. She is a confident, enthusiastic and amazing little girl who has raised more than £200,000 for Birmingham Children's Hospital by running a mile a day for 26 days.Zoe finds out more about this incredible family, their enormous journey into recovery and how they find their strength and solace.The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.

Have you fallen into the trap of being a grown up? That’s what Heart FM radio presenter and dad-of-three Ed James discovered the moment he hit the reset button on his life.Ed talks candidly with Zoe about the highs and lows of the last few years, how he went through a bankruptcy, driving ban and relationship breakup all at the same time and how he discovered that the best approach in life is simply to ‘Be More Kid’.The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.Hosted by Zoe ChamberlainProduced and edited by Matt Millard

You’ll probably remember Dee Kelly as White Dee from the Channel 4 documentary Benefits Street and on Celebrity Big Brother.Dee talks about the impact the programme had on her and her children’s lives and why she felt she wanted to help others by co-launching Birmingham Says No, a group dedicated to empowering young people in the city.In this episode you'll discover everything that’s happened since Benefits Street and why Dee is doing so much to help young people in Birmingham.The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.

How does homework play out in your house? Is it a battle of wits or is your child keen to get pen to paper? Do you think they get too much extra school work or not enough?In this episode we’re talking all things homework with Jamie Barton who is head of school for the Jewellery Quarter Academy.He tells us that doing homework can actually improve a child’s progress by as much as five months - oh, and he said that teachers can tell when parents have done their child’s homework for them!The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.

This episode is packed full of ideas on all the best family days out around the Midlands.There are so many great places to go and things to see, how do you choose, especially when some can be so expensive?Zoe welcomes back Birmingham mum Lavania Oluban who runs a blog called The Amazing Adventures of Me, which is all about getting out and about with her son Arlo.Zoe and Lavania discuss their own experiences, offer tips on how to save money and suggest some places you might never have heard of before.You can read our full guide on our Brummie Mummies Facebook page and on the BirminghamLive website. Also head over to Lavania’s blog Arloriverrex.com to see more of her adventures with her son Arlo.The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.

Zoe talks to Ruth Lue Quee, a new mum whose live lockdown streams led her to quit her job as a deputy headteacher and set up her own business bursting with activities for preschoolers.Ruth, from Wolverhampton, had her son just before the pandemic broke and suddenly found herself home alone wishing she could take him to baby groups.So, she started live-streaming their home play sessions on Instagram, much to the delight of mums across the Midlands.You can read more of Ruth’s tips on our Brummie Mummies Facebook page, on the BirminghamLive website and on Ruth’s website mymummyteacher.comThe Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.

Today’s guest is Ryan Mahon, a father of two who has had to learn how to become both dad and mum to his little girls, following the tragic death of his beloved wife to breast cancer.Nadia sadly died on June 9, 2020, aged just 38, right in the middle of the Covid lockdowns. Ryan describes her as a beautiful wife and mum who had an aura of positivity.Zoe chats with Ryan as he bravely talks about their experiences in the hope it brings comfort to other families separated through grief or divorce.The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.

Zoe Chamberlain chats with ‘Nana Made Me’ founder, Tess Allen.After realising there was very little available for grandparents who provide childcare for their grandchildren, Tess and her friend Linda set up their very own group called ‘Nana Made Me’ in Birmingham.Tess explains all about the traditional activities they do and discusses how ideas on parenting have changed over the years!Tess has worked in education for many years, so she knows all about the importance of developing language and social skills in babies and toddlers. But more than just being great for kids - Tess’ group is helping nans and grandads to make new friends too.The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.

Every parent wants their child’s school life to be great. In this week’s episode we’re talking to Davinder Jandu, headteacher at Yarnfield Primary in Tyseley, who has bags of experience in helping families make the right decisions and easing those school day blues.Davinder has suggestions on how to choose the right school, what questions to ask and clues to look out for, and what to do if your chosen school is oversubscribed.She offers advice to families who may be struggling - we all know that tantrums in the morning and clinginess in the playground is no fun for anyone - and she talks about what’s being done to help kids catch up post lockdown and how to make the transition to high school easier.The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.

Do you still go out and socialise now that you’re a parent?This is something that today’s guest Sophie Parekh and her husband battled over after they had their first baby.In this episode Zoe Chamberlain chats with Sophie and finds out all about Big Fish Little Fish raves for parents to take their kids too, and the importance of going out after having kids.Learn Sophie’s strategies for making going ‘out out’ simple, fun and guilt-free!.The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.

In this week’s episode Zoe speaks with Nathalie Newman, a mum of two whose son Callum has 28 severe allergies. She says it’s like living with a ticking time bomb, almost like Russian roulette on a daily basis.But Nathalie and Callum have made it their mission to make life, and particularly eating, a joyful experience rather than one full of restrictions.Find out all about their free-from journey and what you can do if your child, or a child you are entertaining, has allergies.Find out more about Natalie’s tips on her website intolerantgourmand.com. Natalie and Callum are also appearing at The Allergy & Free From Show coming to Birmingham in November. Tickets are free and you can find out more on the website www.allergyshow.co.ukThe Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.

In this special episode we’ll be sharing all the brilliant things to do in the Midlands in the run up to Christmas.We’re getting particularly excited as so many events are happening that we didn’t get a chance to do last year due to Covid restrictions. We’ve put together this guide to help you plan your festivities.Join Zoe Chamberlain and show producer Matt Millard as they talk about all things Christmas, you'll also hear from some of Birmingham’s best Christmas event organisers. Visit the BirminghamLive website to see our full guide to Christmas events in the Midlands - it has all the dates, details and ticket booking information you need. The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.

In this episode Zoe Chamberlain chats with the hugely popular writer and performer Tova Leigh about how she got thousands of mums and dads across the world to share their parenting confessions with her.Tova started hosting Pyjama Party Confessions evenings on Facebook as a way of hanging out with friends and like-minded mums.She found that fessing up to the white lies and extravagant claims we’ve made to our kids actually helped lots of parents get rid of the mum guilt they carry around with them.And so she turned their stories into a book and a one-woman show called You Did What? Which she is bringing to Birmingham.So let’s open up the confessional with Tova and find out the funny, moving and sometimes outrageous secrets of mums and why we all need to share a bit more than we do.Tova is bringing her show ‘You Did What?’ to the Glee Club in Birmingham on October 5 2021. You can order tickets via seetickets.com and find out more about Tova via her website tovaleigh.comThe Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.

Today’s guest is Kadian Pow, who came up with an amazing hair and beauty range in her kitchen in Birmingham!Frustrated that washing and detangling her hair took a good two hours, she started to explore ways to speed up the process.After two years of experimenting, she was so pleased with her finished product, she made additional pots to give as gifts to her friends, and soon after she start selling it!Since then, she has gone on to invent products to help with everything from stretch marks to kids' eczema.Discover incredible hair-care and beauty tips and why as an American woman, Kadian loves living in Birmingham.You can find out more about Kadian’s amazing products on her website bournbeautifulnaturals.ukThe Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.

This episode is all about homes and gardens and how you can transform yours!Zoe talks to busy mum, interior design guru and blogger Claire Wainwright, who has renovated her Moseley home with her husband Will over the past few years and has even created a hidden oasis in her back garden.Claire shares all her tips and advice on interior design and how to make the best choices when renovating or decorating your home and garden. You can find out more about Claire on her website www.thegreeneyedgirl.co.uk The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.

In this episode we hear from single working mum and blogger Lavania Oluban - She tells us all about why she set up her and her son’s blog 'The Amazing Adventures of Me' and why 'me-time' is so important for mums and dads. Find out how Lavania makes sure to factor in time for herself everyday and why no parent should feel guilty for taking the time to look after themselves as well as their little one.You can visit Lavania’s blog here - https://arloriverrex.com/The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.

Zoe Chamberlain chats with guest Jodie Cook, who believes entrepreneurship stems from childhood.From around the age of six, Jodie’s mum encouraged her to book her own doctors and dentists appointments and to pack her own suitcase when she went on holiday.She grew up thinking this was the norm but, only upon reaching adulthood realised that actually her mum had given her the skills needed for independent thinking, something that would prove essential when she decided to launch her own business, aged just 22.Discover how many other entrepreneurs have been inspired by their upbringing and what they do now they are parents themselves to encourage entrepreneurship in their own children.Find out more about Jodie and how she is inspiring families in her book How to Raise Entrepreneurial Kids which is available on Amazon and her website www.clevertykes.com. The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.

Do you wish you could all get fitter as a family, but struggle to find the time?In this episode Zoe chats with busy mum-of-five Sophia Kapcia who shares how she manages to balance a full-time job, studying for a PhD and dedicating time to exercise.We all know that keeping fit both physically and mentally is really important, but it can often be overlooked. Sophia sheds light on her smart ways to integrate exercise into daily life and how you can make fitness part of your every day, without having to go to the gym! The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.

In this special episode of the Brummie Mummies podcast we’ll be sharing all the brilliant things to do in and around Birmingham this summer.This summer will hopefully offer a first chance to do lots of things that many of us haven’t been able to do for a long time.Unlike previous summers where we’ve been able to get up in the morning, see what the weather’s doing and where our mood’s might take us, we do need to do a little more forward planning this time, as most places require pre-booking. So we’ve put together this guide to help you plan your holidays!Join host Zoe Chamberlain and show producer Matt Millard as they run through all the best family friendly things to do this summer around the Midlands.We’ll also be finding out about a massive free activity programme happening across Birmingham, as we chat to programme director Jenny Carter all about how to get involved.The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.Head to https://linktr.ee/Brummiemummies to find out more about Brummie Mummies!

Zoe Chamberlain chats with mum-of-two and beauty business owner Maxine Laceby, who began by brewing up bone broth on her stove, which she sold to her friends as a collagen beauty product to improve hair, skin and nails.Enlisting the help of her two daughters, Maxine and her girls have now enjoyed massive success, with an astonishing £10million turnover in just three years. Not bad for someone who calls herself a ‘council house kid’ from Wolverhampton.Maxine shares all about why she thinks the skills we pick up in motherhood make mums brilliant in business, how to have an identity outside of being a mum and why making mistakes is actually a good thing. Plus she revealed some great tips on how to turn your dream into a reality.The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.

Creativity is key to 21st century family living. It offers us comfort in difficult times, it allows us freedom of expression and it’s an essential skill that’s becoming increasingly in demand in modern day workplaces. In this episode, Zoe chats with mum, wellbeing coach and author Susie Pearl, to find out how we can nurture creativity in ourselves and our children, especially when we are all just so busy! Susie has done everything from art therapy with mental health patients to running a successful PR agency, working with celebrities like Madonna, Michael Jackson and George Michael, she shares the creative habits she’s picked up from watching successful people, how she was diagnosed with a brain tumour and was given just six weeks to live and made an incredible recovery, the power of positive thinking - and how every single person has creativity inside them.The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.

Zoe Chamberlain chats with bookshop owner and mum of three Jenny McCann about how parents can instil a love of reading in their children, what to do to help reluctant readers, why reading is so important in all aspects of learning and in later life and about how she juggles being a busy mum with running a new business.Jenny McCann felt like every moment of her life was accounted for with a busy job and two children, with another on the way. So just before the first lockdown, she bravely handed in her notice at work and set about opening her very own children’s bookshop - The Bear Bookshop on Bearwood High Street, with the help of her three children, who ‘test’ her book selections and talk to customers about their favourite reads.Jenny’s story really shows there’s always a way to pursue your dreams and get a better life balance, sometimes it’s just about taking that leap of faith.The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.

How far would you go in pursuit of your dreams? In this episode you will hear the inspirational story of Emily Wright - who despite facing adversity, never gave up on turning her dreams into reality. Emily had to return to work when her baby was just three weeks old due to financial pressures, she was evicted from her home and lost all her hair due to stress-induced alopecia. Despite this, in the space of two years she has gone on to create a six-figure turnover for her new business, and has taken the brave step to move away from friends and family to Brighton, so her children can grow up near the seaside…Single mum Emily really believes in a positive mindset, and simply refuses to crumble.Zoe talks to Emily about the pressures of motherhood, why running an online business is a real lifesaver for single parents and why she wants to show her daughters that a woman’s worth is a lot more than just her hair.The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.

Do you feel pressured to get back to your pre-baby weight? In this episode, our guest Sophia Cooper is calling for us to celebrate our wobbly bits instead of feeling embarrassed by them!Zoe Chamberlain chats with Sophia about everything from postnatal depression and body image, to how she set up a church hall group where mums could exercise with their babies and what transformed it into the hugely successful OneFitMama fitness franchise that now offers free classes to help mums struggling with postnatal depression.The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.

Welcome to the very first episode of the Brummie Mummies podcast. Originally launched back in 2015, Brummie Mummies is a well known community for families in Birmingham and beyond, helping parents to connect both online and in person.Join show host and Brummie Mummies founder Zoe Chamberlain as she takes a trip down memory lane and tells you all about Brummie Mummies! Find out how things started, how things have grown over the years and what it means to be a Brummie Mummy.The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Brummie Mummies and Birmingham Live.

Welcome to the Brummie Mummies podcast, the show that shares inspiring stories from Birmingham mums and dads and is brimming with useful advice and suggestions. This podcast is packed full of tips from real Birmingham parents as host and Brummie Mummies founder Zoe Chamberlain chats to mums and dads of all backgrounds about how to juggle family life and all that comes with it. Here's a glimpse of what to expect from the first series of the show! The Brummie Mummies podcast is a Laudable production brought to you by Birmingham Live and Brummie Mummies, and is produced and edited by Matt Millard. Want to get in touch? Drop Zoe an email - zoe.chamberlain@reachplc.com or get in touch via the Brummie Mummies Facebook page - facebook.com/brummiemummiesmail