Throughout Alexandra (Ali) Collier’s life, the ticking of her biological clock was almost silent… until it wasn’t. By the time she heard the hands moving, her work, life, and relationship status did not align with her now deafening desire. Still, she decided to upheave her life in New York and return to Australia to pursue life as a solo parent by choice. Ali, author of the book 'Inconceivable', tells host Davina Smith about the stigma she battled and the anxieties she faced when the reality of raising a child solo dawned. Later, Davina is joined by the mind and mum behind the Single Mothers Survival Guide podcast, Julia Hasche, and Gidget Clinical Team Lead Katie Peterson for a roundtable discussion about the impact of separation or divorce on parents during the perinatal period. Together, they discuss how to survive the adjustment period and steps to protect your mental health when love is back on the cards.   Keep up with Ali’s journey on her Instagram @alexandracollierwrites, or head to her website alexandracollier.com. To get your hands on her book ‘Inconceivable’ head to Booktopia.    If it’s Julia Hasche you want to hear more from, head to her Instagram, or listen to the Single Mothers Survival Guide wherever you get your podcasts. She also had a website, singlemotherssurvivalguide.com.   Find support, read real stories, or become part of the Gidget collective by visiting our website, gidgetfoundation.org.au. You can also find us on instagram.    CREDITS   Hosts: Davina SmithProducer: Kelsey Menzies Audio Imager: Kelli FoulstoneManaging Producer: Todd Stevens See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From reality television to talking about the reality of parenthood, Jack Millar &amp; Courtney Stubbs share their experience from navigating a challenging pregnancy to embracing life as parents. They share their struggles with Courtney's adjustment disorder and how Jack felt helpless in easing her pain. Discover how dads can truly support their partners, tackle the guilt of returning to work, and strengthen their relationship through tough conversations. Later, Paediatrician Dr Golly joins Dr Erin Seeto, Clinical Psychologist at Gidget Foundation Australia to discuss fatherhood, the unique challenges fathers and non-birthing partners face and mental health. Plus, Dr Golly shares his top tip for sleep success. The secret ingredient? Dads and non-birthing partners.    Thanks to Nourishing Bubs for making this episode possible. Discover more of their range at nourishingbubs.com or follow them on Instagram @nourishingbubs.   To hear more from Dr. Golly, visit his Instagram @DrGolly or head to his website drgolly.com for links to his podcast, sleep programs, and more.    If you want to keep up with Jack &amp; Courtney, you can find them on instagram. @_courtneystubbs and @jackomillar.    Find support, read real stories, or become part of the Gidget collective by visiting our website, gidgetfoundation.org.au. You can also find us on instagram.   CREDITS   Hosts: Davina SmithProducer: Kelsey Menzies Audio Imager: Kelli FoulstoneManaging Producer: Todd Stevens See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jack & Courtney's plunge into parenthood, support as a non-birthing partner & fatherhood - with Dr Golly

A silver lining in a devastating miscarriage gave Ash the courage to explore the newfound maternal parts of herself. With coaching, she discovered matrescence—the emotional, biological, and physical changes experienced by women as they become mothers. In a candid chat with Davina Smith, Ash shares how this knowledge empowered her to face anxieties with compassion and accept further support when needed. Later, Davina is joined by matrescence expert and podcast host Amy Taylor-Kabbaz, as well as Gidget Clinical Team Lead Katie Peterson, to discuss the origins of the word matrescence, what you can expect as you go through this complete metamorphosis of body and self, and how to know if the emotions you're feeling are a normal part of matrescence or if they require extra mental health support.   Thanks to Peaches Pilates for making this episode possible. Discount code expires Sep 30th 24, available for new subscribers online. Head to peachespilates.com.    Keep up with Ash’s journey on her Instagram @therealashbonner.   If you would like to hear more from Amy, head to her Instagram @amytaylorkabbaz, or website amytaylorkabbaz.com where you can find her programs and episodes of her podcast – Happy Mama Movement.     Find support, read real stories, or become part of the Gidget collective by visiting our website, gidgetfoundation.org.au. You can also find us on instagram.    CREDITS   Hosts: Davina SmithProducer: Kelsey Menzies Audio Imager: Kelli FoulstoneManaging Producer: Todd Stevens See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ash’s awakening to matrescence, surviving motherhood metamorphosis, and when it’s time to ask for help – with Amy Taylor-Kabbaz

Going into her 31-week scan, Pieta was expecting the usual – a jelly-covered belly and the thrill of seeing her baby grow. But what started as a routine scan ended with Pieta facing one of the most challenging decisions of her life. One in 22 babies has a ‘major congenital anomaly’, and in this episode, Pieta shares her own experience navigating uncertain medical information, the mental toll of grappling with difficult decisions, and the importance of care beyond the diagnosis. Later, Dr. Golly, paediatrician and Gidget Ambassador, joins host Davina Smith and Gidget Clinical Psychologist Erin Seeto for a roundtable discussion on the types and purposes of pregnancy screenings available to parents, discussing strategies to protect your mental health when navigating complex medical information. Plus, Dr. Golly shares his own experience with unexpected diagnoses, sparking a conversation around the value of sharing the mental load and finding trusted sources of truth. Thanks to Peaches Pilates for making this episode possible. Discount code expires Sep 30th 24, available for new subscribers online. Head to peachespilates.com. If you would like to hear more from Pieta, head to the Through the Unexpected website here. You can find Dr Golly on instagram @drgolly, or head to his website to find his sleep programs, podcast and more.  Dr Golly has provided a special discount code for today’s listeners to use on his Sleep Programs. Use the coupon code “gidget20” upon checkout at drgolly.com and you will receive $20 off all sleep programs. Code expires 31.10.24. Find support, read real stories, or become part of the Gidget collective by visiting our website, gidgetfoundation.org.au. You can also find us on instagram.   CREDITS   Hosts: Davina SmithProducer: Kelsey Menzies Audio Imager: Kelli FoulstoneManaging Producer: Todd Stevens See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pieta’s journey through the unexpected, receiving a prenatal diagnosis, and navigating complex medical decisions – with Dr Golly

After years of battling mental health struggles, Kylianne received an unexpected prescription: movement. Embracing physical activity for pure joy rather than aesthetics marked the beginning of her healing and a new career, ultimately making her business ‘Movement for Mental Health’ the largest third-party fundraiser for the Gidget Foundation. Before this incredible feat however, the onset of prolapse after the birth of her first child threatened to unravel the progress herself and her greatest mental health ally – movement – had achieved.  In this heartfelt conversation with host Davina Smith, Kylianne shares her journey of resilience and determination to change the narrative. She reveals how helping others became a pathway to her own healing and how the overwhelming chaos she felt welcoming a second child led to her ADHD diagnosis. The discussion deepens with Clinical Psychologist Dr. Lisa Morgan from Gidget and Sally Rippin, author of 'Wild Things’ in a roundtable discussion later in the episode. Together, they explore the complexities of parenting as a neurodivergent individual and offer strategies to create a happy home when your child also receives a diagnosis.   Find Kylianne on Instagram @kylianne_moveformentalhealth or head to her website moveformentalhealth.com to learn more about her fundraisers &amp; workshops.   You can also find Sally on Instagram @sallyrippinauthor, or head to her website sallyrippin.com to get a copy of her book ‘Wild Things’.   Find support, read real stories, or become part of the Gidget collective by visiting our website, gidgetfoundation.org.au. You can also find us on instagram.    CREDITS   Hosts: Davina SmithProducer: Kelsey Menzies Audio Imager: Kelli FoulstoneManaging Producer: Todd Stevens See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kylianne’s crusade of pro-lapse prejudice, finding mind-body harmony, and how to succeed as a neurodivergent parent - with Sally Rippin

When Cathy Ngo – the daughter of Vietnamese refugee’s - became a mother, the wounds of her past tore open. In a deeply moving conversation with host Davina Smith, Cathy reveals her struggle to balance her heritage with the desire to forge her own path. She bravely shares her experiences with racism, family violence, and how the birth of her son triggered a wave of depression and anxiety that with an extraordinary amount of courage would start her on a path to breaking the cycle of trauma she endured. Later, a roundtable discussion with artist-turned-author Amani Haydar and Gidget psychologist Roshini Varghese delves into the necessity of culturally sensitive, trauma-informed care. Amani also shares powerful insights from her book, "The Mother Wound," making this episode a must-listen for any parent seeking understanding and healing.   Keep up with Cathy’s journey on her Instagram @cathyngospeaks or head to her website cathyngo.com.   To hear more from Amani, head to her Instagram @amanihaydar. To get a copy of Amani’s book,  ‘The Mother Wound’ head to the Pan Macmillan website here.   Find support, read real stories, or become part of the Gidget collective by visiting our website, gidgetfoundation.org.au. You can also find us on instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cathy Ngo’s healing of generational wounds, trauma informed care, and when PNDA takes you to your limits - with Amani Haydar

Alexandra Collier’s embrace of solo-motherhood by choice, and discovering your strength after separation - with Julia Hasche

Silje Andersen-Cooke's jaw dropped when her OBGYN uttered the word ‘triplets’. Shock, joy, and a flood of anxieties ensued. From grappling with financial worries to fears about her body and the babies' health, Silje shares her rollercoaster journey with host Davina Smith in this raw and honest conversation. Discover how she went from shock to advocacy as Director of the Multiple Births Association, where she campaigns for better health outcomes and support for parents of multiples. Later, hear from Head of Research at Compare Club Kate Browne plus Gidget Clinical Psychologist Erin Seeto in a roundtable discussion on managing financial stressors in early parenthood. Together, they discuss budgeting, handling unforeseen expenses, and finding the sweet spot between quality and cost in parenting, all without letting your wallet define your worth. Thanks to Nourishing Bubs for making this episode possible. Discover more of their range at nourishingbubs.com or folow them on instagram @nourishingbubs. Keep up with Silje’s journey on her instagram @silje.ac or learn more about the Multiple Births association on their website amba.org.au. If it’s Kate Browne you’re after, head to compareclub.com.au to learn more.  Find support, read real stories, or become part of the Gidget collective by visiting our website, gidgetfoundation.org.au. You can also find us on instagram.    CREDITS   Hosts: Davina SmithProducer: Kelsey Menzies Audio Imager: Kelli FoulstoneManaging Producer: Todd Stevens See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Silje Andersen-Cooke’s triplet trials, finding joy in the unexpected, and preparing for the cost of parenthood - with Kate Browne

Ellidy Pullin’s most courageous act was becoming a mother, but that doesn’t make it easy. On sleepless nights, through the baby-blues, and even in moments of pure bliss, grief doesn’t stop. Speaking to host Davina Smith, Ellidy reveals the bittersweet moments of Minnie’s first couple of months at home, and how she learnt to balance both joy and sorrow in one hand; a task she’s still practicing today. Later, Dr Kath Whitton, Fertility Specialist, and clinical team lead at Gidget, Amelia Walker, join Davina for a roundtable discussion on protecting your mental health through the notoriously challenging process of IVF, whether you’re embarking on that journey posthumously like Ellidy did, or not. They delve into the medical intricacies of the process, explore the strains it can place on relationships, and offer strategies to safeguard oneself when the outcome falls short of expectations. Thanks to Peaches Pilates for making this episode possible. Discount code expires Sep 30th 24, available for new subscribers online. Head to peachespilates.com.  You can hear more from Ellidy on her podcast Darling, Shine! Or follow her instagram.  Dr Kath Whitton can be found on her website drkathwhitton.com.au, or follow her on instagram.  Find support, read real stories, or become part of the Gidget collective by visiting our website, gidgetfoundation.org.au. You can also find us on instagram.    CREDITS   Hosts: Davina SmithProducer: Kelsey Menzies Audio Imager: Kelli FoulstoneManaging Producer: Todd Stevens See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ellidy Pullin’s legacies of love, navigating IVF, and when motherhood doesn’t stop for grief – with Dr Kath Whitton

In the wake of her beloved Nan passing, Jami, a proud Wiradjuri Woman, waited in anticipation for the placenta burial that would connect her newborn daughter to her Ancestors and Country. Tragically, this day would never come. Speaking to host Davina Smith, Jamidescribes the anguish this caused and the domino effect it had on her mental health. Jami also speaks of the profound moment that made her realise everything was going to be okay. We also hear from Non-Indigenous Psychologist Chris Barnes from Gidget Foundation Australia, who emphasizes the importance of respecting cultural practices throughout the perinatal period. Read more about Jami’s story on the Gidget Foundation Australia website.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jami’s story: Birth and culture - the experience of an Aboriginal Mother

Having previously experienced anxiety and depression, Rebecca enlisted the help of a psychologist as soon as she fell pregnant. But even then, the unexpected challenges of parenthood was something neither she nor her partner could fully plan for. Speaking with host Davina Smith, Rebecca shares how her picture of the perfect family was shattered by sleepless nights and breastfeeding challenges that made her question herself as a parent. Finding space to heal, forging a new identity and learning how to cope when both parents live with perinatal depression and anxiety is discussed, with Clinical Psychologist, Katie Peterson from Gidget Foundation Australia joining the conversation to discuss the realities of parenthood and how to manage them.   Read more about Rebeccas story on the Gidget Foundation Australia website. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rebecca’s Story: Finding space to heal after PNDA

Millie always knew that she wanted Children, but she never realised just how challenging it would be socially, emotionally and financially as a LGBTQIA+ mother. Host Davina Smith quickly learns that the turkey baster essential to Millie’s journey is an experience unique to same sex-couples, and how miscarriage, medical stigma and crippling anxiety left Millie paralysed by fear. Counsellor Amelia Walker from Gidget Foundation Australia also joins the conversation to discuss support for LGBTQIA+ parents.   Click here to find out more about Millie, or head to the Gidget Foundation Australia website.    CREDITS Host: Davina Smith  Producer: Kelsey Menzies Audio Production: Kelli Foulstone Supervising Producer: Todd StevensSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Millies’s story: navigating conception and parenthood as an LGBTQIA+ parent

Working in the mental health space herself, Gen knew what postnatal psychosis was, but it wasn’t until she experienced paranoid delusions that she really understood first-hand what it meant. Speaking to host Davina Smith, Gen shares how a medical emergency after giving birth triggered a psychosis that saw her admitted to hospital without her baby Arlo. Building attachment throughout treatment is discussed, as well as the common misunderstandings people with postnatal psychosis face. Dr Erin Seeto also joins the conversation to discuss exactly what postnatal psychosis is, how to identify early warning signs, and how to seek help.  Read more about Gen's story on the Gidget Foundation Australia website.  CREDITS Host: Davina Smith  Producer: Kelsey Menzies Audio Production: Kelli Foulstone Supervising Producer: Todd StevensSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gen’s Story: Postnatal psychosis and starting the conversation

Moving away from the city for love was an adventure Steph was ready for, but when she fell pregnant, the isolation from family, friends and even medical services had her questioning everything. Speaking to host Davina Smith, Steph describes the challenges of readjusting to a new lifestyle and the frustrations at the lack of health care services at a time when they were most needed. Creating communities, evolving relationships and loneliness are discussed, with Psychologist Dr Erin Seeto joining the conversation to reveal exactly where and how people living regionally, rural and remote can seek help.   You can find out more about Steph and Motherland Australia here, or head to the Gidget Foundation Australia website.    CREDITS Host: Davina Smith  Producer: Kelsey Menzies Audio Production: Kelli Foulstone Supervising Producer: Todd StevensSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stephanie’s Story: Reducing isolation and finding support in remote areas

Craig thought he went into parenthood prepared, but what he never expected was that it would be him asking for help. Speaking to host Davina Smith, Craig shares how he almost crumbled under the weight of being ‘superdad’, and how an average ferry ride home from work left him fearful of what he might do next. Stigma, as well as the unique challenges fathers and non-birthing partners face when becoming parents is discussed, with psychotherapist Derek Ebbs joining the conversation to reveal just how beneficial support for fathers can be.  Read more about Craig's story on the Gidget Foundation Australia website. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Craig’s Story: Accepting help as a father

At 22 weeks pregnant, Annabel got the news no parent wants to hear; her unborn son Miles would not survive. Talking to host Davina Smith, Annabel reveals how grief almost consumed her, and how she learnt to live with loss through sharing her story. Contending with confusing medical jargon, adjusting to life after loss, and supporting parents through grief is discussed, with Clinical Psychologist Chris Barnes from Gidget Foundation Australia joining the conversation to give insight into the impact of child loss on mental health and the unique experience parents face as they work through an unimaginable pain.   You can find out more about Annabel and Miles Apart here, or read more about her story on the Gidget Foundation Australia website. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Annabel’s story: Reducing the silence surrounding baby loss

When Chelsea Pottenger fell pregnant, she was on cloud nine. But that elation was short lived when just months after giving birth, an anxious downward spiral put her own life at risk. Speaking to host Davina Smith, Chelsea tells the story of an easy-going pregnancy, that ultimately resulted in an admission to a mother baby unit. Perfectionism, breastfeeding challenges, and finding purpose after trauma are discussed, with Counsellor Amelia Walker from Gidget Foundation Australia joining the discussion  to unpack exactly what PNDA is and how to seek help.   You can find our more about Chelsea and EQ Minds here, or read more about her story on the Gidget Foundation Australia website. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chelsea’s story:  When its time to ask for help

Join news presenter Davina Smith in a podcast that tells the silent truth of Perinatal Depression and Anxiety (PNDA) loudly, in raw and honest accounts from some of the one in five mothers and one and ten fathers living with it. Paired with expert insights from psychologists and counsellors in the field, this podcast, made in partnership with Gidget Foundation Australia, explores the realities of parenthood, breaks down stigma surrounding perinatal mental health, and gives you the tools on how and when to seek support.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Alexandra Collier’s embrace of solo-motherhood by choice, and discovering your strength after separation - with Julia Hasche

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