The Juggling Act

Mel and Jules are joined by Kidspot Editor Charlotte Willis to talk about the stories that had everyone chipping in their two cents this week. They unpack yet another instance of mum-shaming, post-birth trauma and the mum who has been slammed for the way she dealt with her toddler walking in on her partner. Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Make sure you join the chat on our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. Interested in this week's stories? Head to kidspot.com.au to have a read.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Juggling Act, Mel and Jules are talking about the Sharon Stone interview that broke our hearts, and the Gen Z dating dictionary that broke our brains. They also break down the best bits of the Oscars, a raunchy new makeup product and the court case they’re hoping sets a precedent for unpaid domestic labour. Have something to say about the episode? Join the conversation via our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. Want to see more of The Juggling Act? You can find us on TikTok via @thejugglingactpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The wonderful Jess Sanders joins Mel and Jules on this episode of The Juggling Act to talk about the rising levels of anxiety in our kids, managing big feelings and how being brave can look a little different to what we've been taught. You can grab a copy of You've Got This here. Have things to say about this episode? Join our Facebook group and share your thoughts! Want to see more of Mel and Jules? You can find them on TikTok via @thejugglingactpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mel and Jules are joined by Lifestyle Editor Leah Goulis to talk about the stories that are trending on Kidspot this week, chatting about everything from King Charles' long-awaited coronation to how we should go about teaching our little ones not to bite. They also fall down the MAFS rabbit hole, and Jules reveals one or two behind-the-scenes secrets from her season of the show. Have something to say about the episode? Join the conversation via our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. Want to see more of The Juggling Act? You can find us on TikTok via @thejugglingactpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Juggling Act, Mel and Jules are taking a long hard look at parental leave and whether being a stay-at-home mum is harder than working full-time (spoiler: we think so!). They also chat about TikTok's new well-being features and the bride who caught her husband-to-be being breastfed moments before walking down the aisle. You can apply to be an ambassador for the #figurunfiltered campaign here. Have something to say about the episode? Join the conversation via our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. Want to see more of The Juggling Act? You can find us on TikTok via @thejugglingactpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Celebrated author, podcaster and presenter Andrew Daddo joins Mel and Sarah in the studio to talk about re-learning how to play outside, the best tips and tricks when it comes to parenting and the simple joy we can find in telling our children stories about the good ol' days. You can grab a copy of Grandma's Guide to Happiness here. Have things to say about this episode? Join our Facebook group and share your thoughts! Want to see more of Mel and Jules? You can find them on TikTok via @thejugglingactpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mel and Sarah are joined behind the microphone by Kidspot’s Parenting Editor Nama Winston to talk about parenting a child who identifies as queer, Maria Thattil’s scary experience at the Mardi Gras parade and going full glam before giving birth. You can find our interview with Maria Thattil here: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/maria-thattil-chats-taboo-topics-pride-and-choosing/id1198896352?i=1000601637875 Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Make sure you join the chat on our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. Interested in this week's stories? Head to kidspot.com.au to have a read.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Juggling Act, Sarah Marie Fahd is back in the studio filling in for Jules and telling us all about the reality of her second pregnancy. Mel and Sarah also unpack stepping in to help parents on planes, underrated green flags and a world-first surgery that has blown people's minds. This episode of The Juggling Act cotains discussions around miscarriage and pregnancy loss, so please listen with care. For support or more information, visit miscarriageaustralia.com.au. Have something to say about the episode? Join the conversation via our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. Want to see more of The Juggling Act? You can find us on TikTok via @thejugglingactpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

World Pride Ambassador and former Miss Universe Australia Maria Thattil joins Mel and Jules in the studio to talk all things taboo, from telling her truth in her new book Unbounded to being bisexual and child-free in a traditional Indian family. You can grab a copy of Unbounded here Have things to say about this episode? Join our Facebook group and share your thoughts! Want to see more of Mel and Jules? You can find them on TikTok via @thejugglingactpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Mel and Jules are joined in the studio by Kidspot's Parenting Editor Nama Winston. This week they talk about the obsession with Bluey on TikTok, when to give up a seat on public transport and the stress that comes with planning a kids’ birthday party. Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Make sure you join the chat on our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. Interested in this week's stories? Head to kidspot.com.au to have a read.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode, Mel and Jules dive into the latest development in the Madeleine McCann case, Kate and Will’s cheeky PDA at the BAFTAs and the MAFS episode that gave us all a 101 on gaslighting. They also give their two cents on the Roald Dahl rewrite that has the internet all fired up. Have something to say about the episode? Join the conversation via our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. Want to see more of Mel and Jules? You can find them on TikTok via @thejugglingactpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Juggling Act, Mel and Jules are joined by the incredible Madeleine West to talk about her powerful new podcast series and the harsh reality of child sexual abuse in Australia today. Content warning: this episode will include discussions of child sexual abuse which some people may find distressing. To listen to Predatory, presented by Madeleine West and Gary Jubelin, head to CrimeX on Apple Podcasts or visit predatory.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mel and Jules are joined by Kidspot Editor Charlotte Willis to talk about the stories that got the internet all fired up this week. They talk about setting boundaries when sharing pictures of your kids on socials, how to go about taking kids out of school and the jump from mum-of-two to mum-of-three. And, of course, they give their totally objective thoughts on the latest installment of Magic Mike. Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Make sure you join the chat on our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. Interested in this week's stories? Head to kidspot.com.au to have a read.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode, Mel and Jules talk about Rihanna's show-stopping performance at the Super Bowl, brands that won't stock larger sizes in-store and the Steph Claire Smith confession that had us all reinvesting in our gym memberships. They also get fired up over a controversial opinion piece about working mums in the public eye. Have something to say about the episode? Join the conversation via our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. Want to see more of Mel and Jules? You can find them on TikTok via @thejugglingactpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mel and Jules are joined by educator Lisa Woodward to talk all things Healthy Harold and explore how the iconic school program is tackling topics like friendships and conflict for a new generation of kids. They also dive into managing social media for your children and the uncomfortable conversation on MAFS that we all needed to see. Want more from Mel and Jules? You can find them on TikTok via @thejugglingactpodcast Have thoughts on today’s episode? Jump into our Facebook to join the conversation facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Mel and Jules are joined in the studio by Kidspot's Parenting Editor Nama Winston. This week they talk about the allure of child-free suburbs, a divisive new activewear range and the problems that arise with 'gentle' parenting. Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Make sure you join the chat on our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. Interested in this week's stories? Head to kidspot.com.au to have a read.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Coming up on today's show, Mel and Jules dive into the stories that piqued their interest over the week. In this episode, they chat about yet MORE revelations from Spare, how stressful colouring-in can be and all their favourite bits from Pamela, A Love Story. Share all your thoughts on the episode via our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. Interested in this week's stories? Head to kidspot.com.au to have a read. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mel and Jules are joined today by Chloe Blake, an author and mum-of-three who wrote A Girls Guide to Starting High School after watching her daughter struggle with the reality of moving from Year 6 to Year 7. They also dive into the latest topic to divide TikTok: sleep school. Want to get your hands on the book? Head to www.agirlsguidetostartinghighschool.com to purchase, where 20% of the proceeds for each book will go to supporting One Girl Charity. Have thoughts on today’s episode? Jump into our Facebook to join the conversation facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mel and Jules are joined behind the microphone by wonderful Kidspot Editor Charlotte Willis, and this week they look at child-free weddings, 'hippy-dippy' baby names and all the bits of parenting they've found the hardest They also chat about two of the hottest stories out of the Royal Family this week. Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Make sure you join the chat on our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. Interested in this week's stories? Head to kidspot.com.au to have a read. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Coming up on today's show, Mel and Jules talk about the horrific trolling Jelena Dokic has faced over the summer and what it says about the way we talk about women and their bodies in Australia. They also talk about 'polyfamorous' relationships, the most (scientifically) handsome man in the world and whether dating reality shows still have a place in 2023. Make sure you join the conversations and share all your thoughts on the episode via our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of The Juggling Act, Mel and Jules are joined by the fabulous Turia Pitt to talk about what’s left on her bucket list, celebrating all the parenting wins and her latest book for children, which draws on her Tahitian heritage. Have any thoughts to share on today’s chat? Jump into our Facebook to join the conversation facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. Get your LG Styler™ Steam Closet today by visiting This link.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mel and Jules are joined by Kidspot’s Parenting Editor Nama Winston to talk about the stories that got everyone all hot and bothered this week. They chat about the hard hypotheticals parents have to face before they go into labour, falling out of love with your children’s names and the AITA post that left them with a lot of questions. Want to be a part of the conversation? Make sure you join the chat on our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. Interested in this week's stories? Head to kidspot.com.au to have a read. Get your LG Styler™ Steam Closet today by visiting This link.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Coming up on today's show, Mel and Jules dive into all the best and worst stories from the week that was. They chat about ball kids working at the Australian Open for free, Rebel Wilson’s controversial Dubai weekend and Robert Pattinson’s stance on body standards for men in Hollywood. Share all your thoughts on the episode via our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. Interested in this week's stories? Head to kidspot.com.au to have a read. Get your LG Styler™ Steam Closet today by visiting This link.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Mel and Jules are joined by mum Laura, who had a chance meeting that changed the life of her daughter forever. They also dive into the harsh reality of a family beach trip in peak season and unpack the mixed blessings of Spacetalk Watches. Want to be a part of the conversation? Make sure you join the chat on our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mel and Jules are joined by Lifestyle Editor Leah Goulis to talk about the stories that are trending on Kidspot this week. On this episode, things get heated as they talk about the merits of bringing back Aidan to And Just Like That, grandparents who don’t want to pitch in and the assumption that mum takes time off work when the kids are sick. They also chat about the latest kids' book to get cancelled on TikTok. Want to be a part of the conversation? Make sure you join the chat on our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. Interested in this week's stories? Head to kidspot.com.au to have a read. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Coming up on today's show, Mel and Jules chat about Cate Blanchett’s confusing Critics Choice speech, the celebrities who won’t leave any money to their kids and the complicated conversation to be had about men and aging. They also talk about how much they love Selena Gomez and her positive attitude toward her body. More of this please! Make sure you come and share all your thoughts on the episode via our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mel and Jules are joined today by Zara Cooper, a mum who was happily married to her high-school sweetheart when she had an instant connection with a woman she met at a party. Jules also talks about getting rid of the negative energy at home and how she's manifesting a baby in 2023. Have thoughts on today’s episode? Jump into our Facebook to join the conversation facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nina and Jules are joined by Kidspot Editor Charlotte Willis to talk about the stories that tickled readers on Kidspot this week. They dive into all the trolling Jessie J has recieved since announcing her pregnancy, locking away toys on play dates and letting your daughter get a nose piercing, Want to be a part of the conversation? Make sure you join the chat on our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. Interested in this week's stories? Head to kidspot.com.au to have a read. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's episode of The Juggling Act, Jules and Nina share their hot (or cold) takes on the biggest stories from the week that was. They chat about all of the crazy allegations from Prince Harry in Spare, Stan's wild new documentary and the challenges of accessing government-issued vouchers. They also have dive into the complicated dilemma that lots of parents have faced over the past few weeks: how can I talk to my son about Andrew Tate? Make sure you come and share all your thoughts on the episode via our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're joined today by mum-preneur and mum of three Bianca Monley who started the ready-made meal service Lifely. She opens up about her passion for food, the secret to her success and getting kids in the kitchen. Mel's dad ended up in hospital after having a fall, and she admits it's the first time she's realised they're getting much older. While Jules reveals Oli's strange Ned Kelly inspired obsession (no it's not theft!).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's episode, Jules explains why she's making New Year intentions instead of resolutions, a mum defends letting her 11-year-old drink coffee while another slams a store for selling her daughter a revealing dress. While Mel relates to a video talking about the 'loneliest phase of motherhood'.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In our last episode before Christmas, Mel admits she's burnt out from trying to create festive magic, while Jules shares her thoughts on 'performative parenting' for Instagram. They also chat about the new legislation in NZ banning smoking for kids over 14, a new mum's Christmas haul and whether schools need to do more to protect our kids.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mel, Nina and Jules are joined by the queen of comedy fiction, Kathy Lette, to talk about why the best years of her life have been post-menopause and how she goes about parenting her neurodiverse son. They also dive into the pros and cons of school holidays and Jules also chats about whether she'd do a family reality show. Have thoughts on today’s episode? Jump into our Facebook to join the conversation facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nina and Jules are joined by Parenting Editor Nama Winston to talk through the stories that are trending on Kidspot this week. They chat about Christmas rituals they dread (Elf on the Shelf anyone?), what toddlers really want in their stockings and whether they'll be subscribing to the Drew Barrymore school of thought when it comes to gifts. Want to be a part of the conversation? Make sure you join the chat on our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. Interested in this week's stories? Head to kidspot.com.au to have a read. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's episode of The Juggling Act, Jules and Nina jump into some of the biggest stories from the week that was. They share all their hot takes on the Meghan and Harry documentary, chat about why kids swearing is the funniest thing ever and test-run the AI tech that is worrying teachers. Make sure you come and share all your thoughts on the episode via our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mel and Jules are joined by author Louise Cummins to tackle an age-old problem: how to talk to your kids about Santa and get them to help keep the magic of Christmas alive for those who still believe. They also have a very honest conversation about discipline and teaching kids right from wrong, and try to decide whether going old-school leads to better behaviour. Have thoughts on today’s episode? Jump into our Facebook to join the conversation facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mel and Jules are joined by Kidspot Editor Charlotte Willis to talk through the stories that sparked conversation on Kidspot this week. They dive into those coveted parent parking spots, the one-year-old who had the birthday party of our dreams and whether mums and dads should get priority when it comes to Christmas leave. Want to be a part of the conversation? Make sure you join the chat on our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. Interested in this week's stories? Head to kidspot.com.au to have a read. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Coming up on today's show, Mel and Jules chat about Roxy Jacenko's daughter and her wild Christmas list, the reason couples stop having sex and all the parents that take Elf on the Shelf too far. They also chat about all their expectations when it comes to Harry and Meghan's documentary series and dive into the reality of the couple's historic Netflix deal. Make sure you come and share all your thoughts on the episode via our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mel and Jules are joined this week by ex-Wiggle and children's entertainer Emma Watkins to talk all about feeling like the odd one out growing up, her dreams of being a dancer and the huge responsibility that comes with working with kids. She also delves into the beautiful relationships she's cultivated with her fellow Wiggles and their families, and what life looks like now as Emma Memma. Listen to Emma Memma’s Picnic Beats and Treats Playlist, exclusively on Apple Music. Want to chat about the episode with us? Join the conversation via our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mel and Jules are joined by Kidspot Parenting Editor Nama Winston to talk about the stories that are trending across the news cycle. This week they chat about the word (or words) of the year, the silliest gender reveal to date and whether they've ever regretted having children. They also dive into a prickly problem facing parents in the age of the internet: at what point should you start chatting to your children about pornography? Want to be a part of the conversation? Make sure you join the chat on our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. Interested in this week's stories? Head to kidspot.com.au to have a read. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Coming up on today's show, Mel and Jules dive into all the best and worst stories from the week that was. They chat about the horrible stories to come out of schoolies this year, how Kimmy K ended up addressing the Balenciaga scandal and the child crimes investigator who has revealed all the things she would never let her kids do. Share all your thoughts on the episode via our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. Interested in this week's stories? Head to kidspot.com.au to have a read. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mel and Fiona are joined this week by Scott Pape to chat about the Barefoot Investor's origin story, the importance of financial counselling and how the hell he's going to keep it all together as he transitions to being the stay-at-home parent for his four kids. Scott also lets us in on a few little secrets and stories from his latest book, Barefoot Kids: Your Epic Money Adventure. If you are experiencing financial difficulty, you can speak to a free, independent financial counsellor in your state or territory by calling 1800 007 007. Want to chat about the episode with us? Join the conversation via our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mel and Fiona are joined by Kidspot editor Charlotte Willis to talk about the stories that are trending across the news cycle. This week they talk about the rules you put in place for your mother-in-law, bringing your kids on your honeymoon and how many Christmas presents is too many? Want to be a part of the conversation? Make sure you join the chat on our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. Interested in this week's stories? Head to kidspot.com.au to have a read. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Coming up on today's show, Mel is joined by the fabulous Fiona Falkiner for some hot takes on the best and worst of the news cycle this week. They chat about the liberal senator who thought women wearing trousers qualified as grooming children, the pain of seeing 'heroin chic' returning to public consciousness and Chris Hemsworth's all-too-real revelation about his pre-disposition to Alzheimers. Share all your thoughts on the episode via our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. Interested in this week's stories? Head to kidspot.com.au to have a read. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mel, Jules and Nama are joined this week by Casey, a mum who had her worst fears realised when her newborn's swollen gland turned out to be something far more sinister. Learn more about the Starlight foundation, and get involved with the Super Swim challenge at https://bit.ly/SuperSwimJugglingAct Want to share your thoughts on the episode? Head to our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mel and Nama are talking about all the clickiest stories from the week that was, covering the realities of a 'yes' day and diving into loving work more than your children. They also chat about the little girl who brings up erections non-stop (yes, you read that right) and the dad who went behind his co-parent's back and told their five-year-old that Santa wasn't real. Interested in this week's stories? Head to kidspot.com.au to have a read. Have a hot take you want to share from the episode? Join our Facebook group to get in on the conversation facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Coming up on today's show, Mel is joined by the lovely Nama Winston to talk about all the latest and greatest in the news cycle this week. They talk about all the tea spilled in Jennifer Anniston's Allure interview, a mum on TikTok who has been a little too honest about her thoughts on motherhood and the horrifying lengths some parents go to so they can have 'beautiful' children. Share all your thoughts on the episode via our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. Interested in this week's stories? Head to kidspot.com.au to have a read. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mel, Jules and Nina are joined behind the mic by Ann Maree to talk about the death of her son Xavier, grief literacy in Australia and how she dealt with such a traumatic loss. She’s also her to chat about the Rainbow Baby Project, an incredible programme that’s offering support to bereaved families who are hoping to have another child. This episode will discuss pregnancy and infant loss, so please listen with care. For support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 To learn more about the Rainbow Baby Project, head to mymidwives.com.au/rainbow-baby-project Want to chat about the episode with us? Join the conversation via our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mel and Jules are joined by Kidspot editor Charlotte Willis to talk about the stories that are trending across the news cycle. This week they talk about the mum who managed to hide her pregnancy from everyone apart from TikTok, an election promise to trial free lunches in Victorian public schools and the Danish babies that are being left to nap alone in the cold. They also chat about a primary school mum’s unconventional approach to teaching her children about stranger danger. Want to be a part of the conversation? Make sure you join the chat on our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast. Interested in this week's stories? Head to kidspot.com.au to have a read. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Coming up on today's show, Mel and Nina talk about the scary reality of sextortion and our children, and how to talk about staying safe online as a family. They also chat about all the latest in reality TV, Tony Abbott's bizarre new proposition and whether pet parents deserve the same rights and working arrangements as human parents. Make sure you join the chat and share all your thoughts on the episode via our Facebook group facebook.com/groups/thejugglingactpodcast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.