Happy Mum

Latest Episodes:

How Jake Humphrey's ‘Horrible’ School Days Made Him a Better Parent Mar 31, 2026

Show notes

This week, we welcome broadcaster, High Performance Podcast host, and father of two, Jake Humphrey, to the studio.

Jake and Giovanna share their experiences of being bullied at school, with Jake sharing how those early challenges later helped him navigate public scrutiny as the BBC’s F1 presenter. He also talks candidly about fertility struggles and the deal he made with his wife while trying to conceive their first child during long periods away for work...!

'Game Plan: Level Up Your Mindset. Own Your Future' is out now!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why Hannah East Talks About Her Loss on Stage Mar 24, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Gi sits down with comedian Hannah East to talk about the chaos of parenting three children.

Hannah shares her unique career journey, from competing on Gladiators (where she met her husband) to presenting at the 2012 Olympics.

She also opens up about her fertility struggles and two miscarriages, and how her experiences with grief inspired her to create a stand-up show to help others feel less alone.

Buy tickets to Hannah's tour here!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Inside Debbie Bright’s Life as a Foster Carer Mar 17, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Giovanna sits down with Debbie Bright for an eye-opening conversation about what it’s really like to be a foster carer.

Best known to many from TOWIE, Debbie is also one of the UK’s longest-serving foster carers, having cared for over 200 children across 35 years.

Gi and Debbie talk about why children enter care, the importance of showing compassion rather than judgment toward birth parents, and the emotional reality of saying goodbye when children move on.

Debbie also opens up about her own turbulent childhood, and offers heartfelt advice to anyone considering fostering.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chessie King on the shocking reality of IVF costs Mar 10, 2026

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Our guest this week is presenter and author Chessie King!

Chessie opens up to Giovanna about navigating her husband’s postnatal depression and the incredibly tough time that left their marriage on the brink of divorce.

She also talks about the emotional journey of trying to conceive again after experiencing fertility struggles.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Steve Backshall: ‘it’s a terrible time to be a parent’ Mar 03, 2026

Show notes

This week, Giovanna is joined by adventurer and explorer Steve Backshall

Steve and Gi catch up on family life as he reflects on his childhood and how it shaped the person he is today.

He also opens up about his wife Helen's inspiring journey training for the Tokyo Olympics just months after giving birth, and of course, there are plenty of tales from his iconic adventures along the way.

LEGO® Education has launched four innovative STEM sets for young builders aged 7+, championed by explorer Steve Backshall. These sets turn children's big 'Why?' questions into hands-on, independent scientific discovery. Available today via select LEGO Stores and LEGO.com/LEGOEducation

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 300: The Emma Willis Takeover Feb 24, 2026

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One huge milestone. One unforgettable twist 👀

To celebrate 300 incredible episodes of Happy Mum Happy Baby, Giovanna finally finds herself on the other side of the table, lovingly nudged out of the hosting chair by none other than her best friend Emma Willis!

In a perfect full-circle moment, Emma—who was HMHB’s very first guest—returns to turn the tables and get the full story on Gi’s parenting journey.

It’s raw, revealing, and the perfect way to honour 300 episodes of honest conversation!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I survived postpartum psychosis — here's what I want you to know Feb 17, 2026

Show notes

TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains explicit discussion surrounding issues including depression, postpartum psychosis and suicidal thoughts. This may prove a difficult listen for some and if you feel that listening may affect you negatively then please choose another episode.

This week Giovanna sits down with Jade Lloyd for a powerful and deeply personal interview about her experience with postpartum psychosis. Jade tells Gi about her traumatic birth during COVID-19, followed by a descent into severe postpartum psychosis that required her being admitted to a mother and baby unit and sectioned.

Postpartum psychosis is a psychiatric emergency that requires immediate intervention. If you are worried about yourself or a loved one it’s important to speak to a health professional such as a GP, midwife or health visitor. If it's an emergency and you don’t feel safe, call 999 or go straight to A&E.

If Jade’s story has resonated with you and you need help or support, please don’t hesitate to use the resources below:

Action on Postpartum Psychosis https://www.app-network.org/

Pandas https://pandasfoundation.org.uk/

Samaritans https://www.samaritans.org

Mind UK https://www.mind.org.uk/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Three babies, zero filters: Charlotte Dawson on pregnancy & postpartum life Feb 10, 2026

Show notes

This week, Giovanna is joined by the brilliantly funny reality star and mum of three, Charlotte Dawson!

Charlotte opens up to Gi about honouring her dad Les Dawson’s memory at home, alongside her mission to champion body positivity for women everywhere.

A hilarious, honest, and slightly chaotic episode — enjoy!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Default Parenting Hell with Lou Beckett Feb 03, 2026

Show notes

This week on Happy Mum Happy Baby, Giovanna chats with the brilliant Lou Beckett!

Lou opens up about the pressures of breastfeeding, and shares how she and her husband Rob navigated the all-too-real 'roommate phase' during their early days of parenthood.

She also talks about the mental load of being the 'default parent': the one who keeps family life ticking, from organising clubs and parties to taking on the emotional and administrative side of home life.

Lou's book Lessons From a Default Parent is available for preorder now!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Denise Van Outen on dating as a mum: “if they disapprove, you’ll know” Jan 27, 2026

Show notes

National treasure of stage and screen Denise Van Outen joins Giovanna this week!

Denise and Gi chat about their stagey childhoods and the impact motherhood has had on their careers in the performing arts.

Plus, Denise opens up about her relationship with ex-partner Lee Mead and how they successfully co-parent their daughter, Betsy.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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