Is It Just Us?
A podcast for parents who have ever wondered if they are the only ones finding it all a bit much. Each episode dives into the messy, beautiful, and overwhelming parts of parenting and life with honesty, humour, and heart. Topics range from sleep deprivation and screen battles to identity shifts and unexpected joys. Hosted by Debbie and Hayley, the show offers real talk and real connection, reminding listeners that it's never just you.
Episodes
Ep. 75 Is It Just Us Or...Is Lying Normal? What Every Parent Needs To Know!
This week we are talking all about lying! From primary lies, secondary lies and tertiary lies to pro-social lies and white lies- there is so much to discuss! And we will help you to see why your child lying is a good thing!! How to respond to ensure you are supporting development and open communication and we have lots of laughs remembering the lies we told back in the day too!We hope you enjoy!Se
Ep. 74 Is It Just Us Or...Can Children and Teens Be Assessed For ADHD Safely Online? With Guest Jordan Casey CEO MindPath
This week we’re joined by Jordan Casey, CEO of MindPath, for an open and honest conversation about MindPaths online ADHD assessments for children and teenagers.We get into the nitty-gritty of online ADHD assessment, how they actually work, how children are assessed safely online, what parents can expect and the questions you might have before considering one for your child. Jordan also opens up ab
Ep. 73 Is It Just Us Or...Do We Need To Talk About Birth Trauma?
Welcome back! This week we started off the pod chatting about Hayley's house move and giving you guys a life update and somehow ended up speaking about our births and the traumas we experienced. Please mind yourself when listening as we are so aware that this topic can be very triggering. We also touch on some other topics in this really chatty episode. We hope you enjoy xThanks so much for li
Ep. 72 Is It Just Us Or... Do We Need To Talk About Suicide?
**Sensitive Topic** In this week's episode we are talking about suicide and Debbie's recent experience of this within her family. Please mind yourselves as you listen. We wanted to talk about this to open up awareness and support you as parents and also to shine a light on this issue which effects so many of us. Please take a look at the resources and links below if you need support with this. Pie
Ep. 71 Is It Just Us Or...Is It Hard To Keep Romance Alive As Parents?
This week, we’re talking about something that can very easily get lost somewhere between nappies, bedtimes, work and the never-ending to-do list- romance! We chat about what happens to your relationship when you become parents, why making time for each other can feel almost impossible, and the little things that can help you stay connected as a couple. Expect plenty of laughs, very honest confessi
Ep. 70 Is It Just Us Or...Is Toileting and Bed Wetting a Stressful Part of Parenting? With Expert Deirdre Holland Hannon
This week, we’re joined by the amazing Deirdre Holland Hannon, urotherapy expert, (follow her here) to talk about the toileting struggles so many families experience but don’t always talk about. From bedwetting and accidents to holding wee, withholding poo and constipation, Deirdre explains what might actually be going on and why these behaviours are so hard to navigate. We talk about what’s typic
Ep. 69 Is It Just Us Or...Is It ADHD or Typical Development?
In this episode, we’re unpacking one of the biggest questions parents have been asking us about ADHD- how do you know if what you’re seeing is actually ADHD or if it's part of typical development? We talk about attention, impulsivity, big emotions, movement and behaviour, why so many ADHD traits can also be completely normal at different ages, and when it might be worth looking a little closer. If
Ep. 68 Is It Just Us Or... Are Dads Taking On a New Role In Parenting? With Guest Donegal Daddy
This week, we are delighted to be joined by Micheál Brennan aka Donegal Daddy (follow him here) for an honest conversation about fatherhood and parenting. He shares what led him to become a stay-at-home dad to his three children, the realities of being the parent at home, and his own experiences with ADHD and struggles with his mental health. We talk identity, parenting, the pressures dads can fac
Ep. 67 Is It Just Us Or...Do You Think You Have ADHD Too?
We both recently went through an ADHD assessment and in this episode, we’re sharing the whole experience. What made us wonder about ADHD in the first place, what the assessment process was actually like, and, of course, what it brought up for us revealed in the end! We talk about the signs and traits we recognised in ourselves, the things that suddenly made a lot more sense, and how it feels to l
Ep. 66 Is It Just Us Or... Is Parenting Siblings Harder in The Summer?
Sibling fights, rivalry, jealousy, comparisons and endless cries of “that’s not fair!”- parenting siblings can feel like a full-time refereeing job, especially over the summer holidays. This week, we’re talking about why siblings fight, when parents should step in (and when we shouldn’t), and how we can help our children build healthier sibling relationships without constantly trying to keep the
Ep. 65 Is It Just Us Or...Did Mayo's Win Feel Bigger Than Football?
Mayo finally did it after 75 years!! Congratulations to all involved in Mayo's historic All Ireland Football Final win! In this episode we hear about Debbie's experience of the match from the stands but this episode is about more than football. We talk about how this win did something to us all! We talk about the impact on community, connection, hope and the magic that happens when an entire count
Ep 64. Is It Just Us Or...Can We Solve This Parent's Bedtime Struggle? With Guest Laura Burke
This week's episode is in the form of a parent consultation/ coaching session! We invited the amazing Laura Burke on to talk about the struggles she is having at bedtime with her son. We did a deep dive, unpacked the dynamics and gave her lots of tools to try just like we would in the hub or in a 1:1. We also had a lovely chat and some laughs on this super relatable and really challenging topic! W
Ep. 63 Is It Just Us Or... Is It Time For A House and Life Update!?
It's time for a proper catch-up! In this episode, we're sharing news from our lives! From house hunting and bidding wars to mortgages and big renovations we are sharing a little of what's going on behind the scenes. This is a super chatty episode with a few laughs and even some manifestation chat!We hope you enjoy and thanks so much for listening!You can contact us at isitjustuspod@gmail.com
Ep. 62 Is It Just Us Or...Do We Only Need to Get Parenting Right 33% of the Time?
In this episode, we're exploring the fascinating and very helpful "one-third rule" from Dr. Ed Tronick's research. We break down the rule for you and talk about why the goal of parenting is not perfection! f you've ever worried you're getting it wrong, this conversation will take the pressure off and remind you what children actually need to thrive. We hope you find this rule as supportive as we d
Ep. 61 Is Is Just Us Or...Is "I'm Bored" a Big Parenting Trigger?
Ever feel your stress levels rise the second you hear, "I'm bored!" You're not alone! In this week's episode, we're chatting about why boredom can be such a big parenting trigger, why we feel so responsible for keeping our children entertained..all the time!.. and how a little boredom might actually be one of the best things for their creativity, and resilience too! We give you lots of i
Ep. 60 Is It Just Us Or...Is Summer Parenting The Ultimate Juggle?
Summer can bring sunshine (eh sometimes!), slower mornings, and special memories...but, it can also bring pressure, guilt, expense, and a never-ending mental load. In this episode, we chat honestly about the realities of parenting through the summer months, from juggling work and childcare to managing expectations, activities, and everything in between. If summer feels both wonderful and overwhelm
Ep. 59 Is Is Just Us Or... Is Parenting Big Emotions Exhausting?
From meltdowns and tantrums to tears, worries and anger, big emotions can leave parents feeling overwhelmed and unsure how to respond. In this episode, we explore what's really going on beneath those emotional moments and share practical ways to support children while staying steady yourself. We share our own stories and funny parenting moments that have had us in our big feelings too!Hayley
Ep. 58 Is It Just Us Or...Does Nobody Prepare Parents For Periods Either?
Periods can bring questions, worries, big feelings and major changes, yet so many parents feel unsure about how best to support their child through it all. In this episode, we chat about the information children really need, how to approach period conversations with confidence, and simple ways to help your child feel informed, supported and comfortable as they navigate this important stage of grow
Ep. 57 Is It Just Us Or...Is Parenting Different When Your Partner Has ADHD?
This week, we're joined by a really special guest, Aedin Shannon, a childhood friend of Hayley's who is now living in Perth, Australia. Aedin shares her experience of parenting along side her partner, Kenny who has ADHD. We talk about navigating family life with their two boys, carrying a greater share of the mental load, and parenting their son following his ADHD diagnosis too. We chat about the
Ep. 56 Is It Just Us Or...Is Parenting Girls More Complicated Than Ever?
From confidence and friendships to social media, self-image, and finding their voice, raising girls today can feel like navigating a world so different to the ones we grew up in ourselves. In this episode, we're chatting about some of the unique pressures girls face and how we can support them to grow into confident, resilient young women!We hope you enjoy and get lots from this conversation. Send
Ep.55 Is It Just Us Or...Did We Blink and A Whole Year Passed?!
One year later… eventually 😅 In this episode of Is It Just Us...?, we’re looking back on the past year of podcasting, parenting, work, life, chaos, and all the moments in between following our recent podcast first birthday! From the episodes that hit home most, to the things that surprised us, challenged us, made us laugh, this is a real, unfiltered catch-up between us! We chat about what we’
Ep. 54 Is It Just Us Or...Is Online Safety The Parenting Issue of This Generation? With Guest Mick Moran
This week we are joined by Mick Moran, CEO of the Irish Internet Hotline, for one of the most important conversations we’ve had on the podcast so far. We talk honestly about what children and teenagers are really being exposed to online right now, from pornography and violent content to online grooming, manipulation, sextortion, AI generated imagery, misogynistic content and the growing
Ep. 53 Is It Just Us Or...Quick Fire Parenting Round!
Welcome back! In this episode we are answering quick fire questions straight from Instagram. We have a laugh and a chat about some everyday parenting challenges and thoughts. We hope you enjoy and thank you all sooo much for listening!Send your thoughts and comments to us at isitjustuspod@gmail.comThere is still time to join us for our super popular Raising Boys Who Thrive webinar happening tonigh
BONUS EP Is It Just Us Or...Do We Need To Talk About Parenting Boys?
🎉It's our birthday! Is It Just Us? Podcast is ONE year old! THANK YOU to each and every one of you who listen! We really appreciate it. We have had a blast and loved bringing you a new episode every, single week. If you haven't already done so, it would make our day if you could subscribe, rate and tell a friend about our pod! 🥰⭐️To say a huge thank you here is a bonus episode we know you will lov
Ep. 52 Is It Just Us Or... Does Babysitting Feel Riskier These Days?
In this episode we reflect on a recent Irish Independent article Hayley contributed to about babysitting. We chat about our own experiences with baby sitting as teens, how it feels as parents now and what has changed. We also explore today's teens and what stepping into that role today might look and feel like for them. We hope this gives you some helpful insights into this topic! Send your though
Ep. 51 Is It Just Us Or... Do We Need To Talk About PMDD and Peri Meno With Guest Caitlin Kirrane
This week's episode is such a treat! We had an amazing conversation with mum of 4, Caitlin Kirrane https://www.instagram.com/mrscaitlinkirrane/. Caitlin shares her life living in a mobile home with 4 children whilst building their dream home. She is open and honest about her pregnancies, living in the mobile, her PMDD and more recently, her quest to help herself through peri menopause. This conver
Ep. 50 Is It Just Us Or... Did Our Teenage Jobs Teach Us More Than School Ever Did?
This is a really nostalgic and fun chat about our own teenage jobs, earning money as a teen, and the lessons that came with it. We also reflect on how different things feel for teens growing up today and what that might mean for their independence, confidence and relationship with money. We hope this gives you a laugh and some helpful insights too. Send your thoughts and comments to us at isitjust
Ep. 49 Is It Just Us Or...Do We Need To Hear From The Teens With Guest Shonagh O' Sullivan
Parents, get ready for an episode that is going to blow you away, open your eyes wide to the world of teenagers and also give you a sense of hope for the future too. We are absolutely delighted to be joined by 17 year old Shonagh O' Sullivan from Tralee this week. Shonagh did a TED Talk entitled "Behind The Selfie" which was inspired by her experience of Snapchat and Coco's Law. In this conversati
Ep. 48 Is It Just Us Or...Is There Nothing Down About Down Syndrome
In this week's episode we are so excited to welcome Ciara and James Carty who tell us all about their wonderful little girl, Iris. Ciara and James tell the story of how Iris came in to the world, the challenges they all faced and how their lives changed, for the better in so many ways. This conversation is a tale of true inspiration and strength and a lesson in how children are incredible beings w
Ep. 47 Is It Just Us Or...Is The Manosphere a Grim Reality For Parents?
Did you watch it yet? In this episode, we unpack Louis Theroux's recent documentary which aired on Netflix and is all about the "Manosphere". It was not for the faint of heart and we found it a hard watch. Today we talk about how boys are being influenced online, and share practical advice on how to protect connection, build awareness, and support your child’s safety in the digital world. We hope
Ep. 46 Is It Just Us Or...Do We Need To Hear From The Dads?! With Guest Stephen "Cowboy" Kelly
We are delighted to have been joined for the first time by a dad and who better to represent than Stephen "Cowboy" Kelly. A father of 5, you may recognise Stephen from his role as "Cowboy Lavin" on the hit TV show "The Hardy Bucks" from social media or from the many sketches and comedy shows he performs in- but it's unlikely that you've heard him speak about parenting! Beyond the personality and p
Ep. 45 Is It Just Us Or...Do We Need To Talk About Parental Separation?
In this episode we are taking a big topic- parental separation. We unpack the common issues we see in our work and really focus on how parents can support themselves and their children through this difficult time. We hope you find it helpful. Check out some resources in the show notes below. https://rainbowsireland.ie/parents-guardians/parental-separation-divorce-relationship-breakdownhttps://know
Ep. 44 Is It Just Us Or...Is Perspective Everything? with Guest Charlene Flanagan
This is a truly inspiring and uplifting conversation with Charlene Flanagan, CEO, co-founder and skin expert. One half of the global skin care brand we all love, Ella & Jo, Charlene opens up about motherhood, work and life. We went away with so many nuggets of wisdom and Debbie even had a few tears. We hope you love this conversation as much as we did!Check out Ella & Jo hereSend us an ema
Ep. 43 Is It Just Us Or...Is Being The Default Parent Hard Going!?
We are back with another topic that comes up so frequently in our work! Being the "default" parent. In this episode we unpack what it means to us and we look at the ways it can impact us too. We share our own experiences and insights on this and of course, we offer some help. We hope you enjoy!Send us an email at isitjustuspod@gmail.com and let us know your default parenting thoughts!We are absolu
Ep. 42 Is It Just Us Or...Are Eating Disorders Still A Tricky Topic?
It is eating disorders awareness week and we are so grateful for this conversation with Aoife O' Brien from AOB Coaching. Aoife talked us through some amazing insights on the topic of eating distress, eating disorders and all that comes with it. Debbie shares some of her experiences with this topic too. A truly honest and important conversation. We hope you enjoy. You can find more about Aoife her
Ep. 41 Is It Just Us Or...Is Bedtime The Hardest Part Of The Day?
Bedtime! It can't be just us? 😅 It's chaos, it's triggering, we are wrecked, some nights it ends in tears (everyones) ... This week we dive in to this topic and share our honest experiences. We have a laugh and give some tips too! We hope it helps xSend your thoughts and comments in to isitjustuspod@gmail.com! We love hearing from you!We are so grateful to be sponsored by the incredible Breaf
Ep. 40 Is It Just Us Or...Would Parenting Be Easier If....?
Our 40th episode in a row! We are so grateful to you guys and have had a blast making these episodes! We never want a break, the weekly chats are everything! In this episode we use answers from Debbie's Instagram question box to have some fun and talk through the things that make life hard as parents! This convo is funny and very REAL! We hope you love it.Send your thoughts and comments in to isit
Ep. 39 Is It Just Us Or...Does Nobody Know What Play Therapy Actually Is?
Following on from last week (we got carried away talking about how we became therapists 😅), this week we are chatting about the absolute wonder and amazingness of play therapy, how it works and the cases that stood out to us over the years! We hope this helps you to understand how incredible play is and how deeply wise children are. Send your thoughts and comments in to isitjustuspod@gmail.com! We
Ep. 38 Is It Just Us Or...Is Changing Careers Something We All Think About?
One of our most asked questions is around how we made the leap from teaching to therapy! In this episode, we talk about how we both went on journeys we never expected and where it has led us today! We hope you enjoy and that it might help or inspire if you are considering a career change too!Send your thoughts and comments in to isitjustuspod@gmail.com! We love hearing from you!We are so grateful
Ep. 37 Is It Just Us Or...Is Autistic Barbie More Than A Doll?
Mattel has released its first ever autistic Barbie, complete with headphones, fidgets and a communication device. In this episode of Is It Just Us…? we chat all about why this matters and how representation in toys can shape attitudes.From a therapist’s lens, we explore play, identity, inclusion and why this Barbie is so much more than a doll. We hope you enjoy and send your thoughts and
Ep. 36 Is It Just Us Or...Do We Need to Talk About Grok?
Grok - the AI image editing app that has exploded on to the scene recently with it's nudifying abilities. In this episode we try to unpack its impact while also providing you with as much helpful info as possible. It's a scary time in the online world, so we hope this episode brings you some clarity and reassurance.https://hotline.ie/https://smartphonefree.ie/https://www.cybersafekids.ie/https://w
Ep. 35 Is It Just Us Or...Do You Need A Reset More Than A Resolution
Happy New Year!! Is it just us… or does the New Year call for a reset more than a resolution? In this episode, we talk about letting go of pressure, calming your nervous system, and gently finding your feet again after a full-on season. We speak about the ways we personally reset as well as about resetting things like boundaries and routines. Enjoy!Send your QUESTIONS and pod suggestions to us isi
Ep. 34 Is It Just Us Or...Do We Need A Christmas Deload?
Is it just us or does Christmas now require a recovery period?! This week, we’re debriefing the festive season in real time..from the chaos and sickness to feelings of grief and thoughts on the new year, we’re chatting about how Christmas actually felt this year, what surprised us, what drained us and why even the good stuff can be… a lot!No festive perfection, no toxic positivity... just a very h
Ep. 33 Is It Just Us Or...Is F.I.R.M. Parenting The Way Forward?
It's Christmas Eve! In this episode we are chatting all about our F.I.R.M. Parenting approach, what it actually stands for and how it came to be! We share behind the scenes insights into how we work and what is to come too! As a special Christmas gift to you here is a link to our 7 day FREE trial so you can check out our hub yourself! We hope you enjoy! We would like to wish all of our listeners a
Ep. 32 Is It Just Us Or...Do We Need To Talk About ADHD?
After the incredible response to last week's podcast with Jack O' Dea on ADHD, we wanted to unpack this topic a little more. In this episode, we open up an honest, judgment-free conversation about ADHD, questions parents are asking, the worries they’re holding, and the confusion that can come with trying to make sense of it all.We hope you enjoy! Send your feedback and future topic ideas to isitju
Ep. 31 Is It Just Us Or...Do We Need To Talk To Jack O' Dea?
This week's podcast truly is a very special one. We had the privilege of speaking with Jack O' Dea, our first ever guest! Jack is a 22 year old Masters student from Galway who was diagnosed with ADHD at 5 years old. He talks us through what life was like growing up, how he navigated school, friendships and the sometimes negative feedback he faced. We talk about advocacy, parenting, giving children
Ep. 30 Is It Just Us Or...Are Phones Stealing Childhood?
In this week’s episode of Is It Just Us?, we dive into one of the most loaded parenting topics right now… smartphones for children and teens. With Christmas just around the corner, you may be feeling the pressure! We talk honestly about the pros and cons of smartphones, the emotional, social, and behavioural impacts we’re seeing and how to make choices that are aligne
Ep 29 Is It Just Us Or...Do We Need A Life Update!
Ok, so much has been going on, it is high time we filled you guys in! From home new to work news, we hope you enjoy this chatty life update episode!Send us your emails at isitjustuspod@gmail.com and tell us your thoughts and what you would like to hear from us!Thank you to our incredible podcast sponsor https://mimitoys.ie/ for sponsoring this podcast. We adore Mimi's developmental and super uniqu
Ep. 28 Is It Just Us Or.. Is Skin Care For Toddlers A Step Too Far?
In this episode we talk about the recently launched TODDLER skin care range! We chat through the message it sends to our young children but also how playing with the theme of "home spa" can be great! We touch on the skincare trend for tweens too and have loads to say about this topic both as parents and professionals! Also, can you guess the old staple that Hayley is now using on her face at night
Ep. 27 Is It Just US Or...Do We Need To Talk About Toy Guns?
Toy guns! The topic that had brought much debate! In this week's episode we chat about Debbie's recent Ireland AM appearance and her chat on the topic of toy guns and aggression toys in the studio. We shed light on the subject as therapists and mothers and Debbie shares some key insights she didn't have time to mention on live TV!We would love to know your personal thoughts on this at isitjustuspo
Ep. 26 Is It Just Us Or...Is "Calm Parenting" Completely Unrealistic?
We all know that staying calm when parenting is the ideal, but what happens when this advice just makes you feel like you are failing!? Even when you are not! In this episode we unpack what it really means to be calm and put the focus on regulation instead. We talk about repair, reconnection, authenticity and modelling a range of emotions as a parent - in other words, being human! If you've ever f
Ep. 25 Is It Just Us Or...Do We Need To Talk About UPFs?
It's time to chat about Ultra Processed Foods! Is it scare mongering or do we need to take note? What if there are eating disorders and other challenges involved? In this episode we sit down to chat bout our take on this topic as friends, colleagues and parents. Debbie shares her perspective as someone in recovery from eating disorders too.We hope you enjoy!HIT subscribe now and share this with a
Ep. 24 Is It Just Us… or Is Slapping Never Okay?
It’s one of those topics that still makes parents squirm. You might see it joked about online, hear friends say “just a little tap,” or even feel that split-second urge when tempers flare…but slapping a child is never the answer. In this episode, we dig into why hitting..even lightly..can damage trust, model aggression, and escalate rather than solve conflicts. We talk about the impact on children
Ep. 23 Is It Just Us.. Or Is FAFO Parenting Actually a Thing?
Have you heard of F*ck Around & Find Out” Parenting? Maybe sounds funny on the TikTok, but in real life? Not so much. Children and teenagers will test limits.. but leaving them to just “FAFO” their way through life isn’t exactly the supportive guidance they need.In this episode we’re unpacking why the hands-off, wait-and-see approach doesn’t always work, what kids actually learn when adults st
Ep. 22 Is It Just Us... Or Does Bonnie Blue Scare You Too?
We don’t love talking about porn, but the reality is our children and teenagers are growing up in a world where names like Bonnie Blue aren’t hidden in the shadows.. they’re a click away (and they’re the chat at school).. As parents, we might feel awkward, shocked, or even scared, but pretending it doesn’t exist won’t protect our children or teenagers. In this episode we’re unpacking why it’s so i
Ep. 21 Is It Just Us.. or are Days Out/Holidays Kinda Stressful?
We love the idea of them.. family memories, fresh air, new experiences, but the reality? Packing up half the house, refereeing sibling squabbles in the back seat, and making sure everyone else has a great time! Of course we know we’re lucky to be able to do these things, and we are grateful… but that doesn’t mean it’s not a lot. Sometimes the “fun” comes with meltdowns (theirs and ours). In this e
Ep. 20 Is It Just Us Or...Do We Need To Talk About YouTube?
One minute your child is watching what appears to be a harmless cartoon, the next they’re down a rabbit hole of ads, influencers, or content that’s anything but child-friendly. Add in the rise of rapid-cut shows, with flashing edits and constant noise designed to hook attention, and suddenly you’re wondering what it’s doing to your child’s focus and regulation.In this episode, we unpack the hidden
Ep. 19 Is It Just Us Or...Is Parenting On The Same Page Incredibly Hard?
You love your kids. You love your partner. But when it comes to discipline, routines, or handling meltdowns, it can feel like you’re playing on two completely different teams. In this episode, we dive into what happens when parenting styles clash, the good cop/bad cop dynamic, the “you’re too soft/you’re too strict” arguments, and the confusion it creates for kids caught in the middle.We’ll talk a
Ep. 18 Is It Just Us Or...Is Work-Life Balance A Myth?
We’re told we can “have it all”- the career, the family, the social life, the self-care routine! But, most days it feels like we’re just spinning plates and waiting for one to crash. In this episode, we get real about the impossible standards women face around work–life balance. From guilt that follows us around all day, to the pressure of being present for everyone except ourselves, we unpack wh
Ep. 17 Is It Just Us or Is Everyone Having a Tantrum These Days?
Tantrums aren’t just for toddlers - grown-ups have them too, even if they look a little different or sometimes the exact same - shouting, banging things & crying - we’ve all been there! In this episode, we unpack why stress, overwhelm, and emotions can push all of us toward meltdown moments. We share what’s helped us stay grounded and calm, and explore strategies that work for children an
Ep. 16 Is it Just Us Or....Do We Need To Talk About Sex?
Not our sex lives (James & John can sigh with relief!) but how we talk to our children about theirs. Because despite what many of us were told, teaching children about sex isn’t “too much too soon,” and using the correct names for body parts won’t “take away their innocence.” In this episode, we tackle the biggest myths that stop parents from having open, honest conversations about sex, c
Ep. 15 Is It Just Us Or....Do People Think Gentle Parenting Means Being a Doormat?
Somehow, “gentle parenting” has been twisted into “never say no” or “let your kids walk all over you.” In this episode, we dig into the real meaning behind the approach, talk about our own approaches and why it’s not about giving in, staying quiet, or avoiding boundaries. We’ll explore how firm limits, emotional connection, and respect go hand-in-hand and why being gentle doesn’t mean being p
Ep. 14 Is It Just Us Or... Is It Just Me? Quick Fire Edition
Something different this week - Ready for a round of all the randomness, “Wait… is it just us, or is it just me?”.We’re firing off rapid-fire takes on everything from parenting fails to everyday oddities - fast, fun, and totally relatable.Don’t forget to subscribe, give us a rating & recommend to a friend. Email us any comments or queries on isitjustuspod@gmail.comAnd if you would like support
Ep. 13 Is It Just Us Or...Is "Being Good" Totally Overrated?
We hear it all the time “Be good", “Are you being good?” But what does that actually mean? For adults, it often shows up as restriction: staying in control, following the rules. For children, it’s usually about compliance - being quiet, being polite, not making a fuss. In this episode, we unpack how this vague idea of "being good" creates confusion, fuels people-pleasing, and leaves both
Ep. 12 Is It Just Us Or... Is There Way Too Much Shame Around Boobies or Bottles?
Why does something as essential as feeding your baby come loaded with so much judgement? In this episode, we’re getting honest about the shame, pressure, and unspoken rules around breast and bottle feeding. One of us breastfed, one didn’t and we were both shamed for it. We’re sharing our experiences, the guilt we felt (or were made to feel), and the silent comparisons that happen far too ofte
Ep. 11 Is It Just Us Or...Do We Need To Talk About Botox?
Grey hairs, fine lines, changing bodies, and a culture that tells us to fight it every step of the way. In this episode, we’re getting real about ageing, appearance, and the quiet pressure to stay “youthful.” From the beauty industry to social media filters, we unpack why it’s so hard to just let ourselves be, and what it might look like to age on our own terms!If you'd like to join our amazing Pa
Ep. 10 Is It Just Us Or... Does School Bring Up All The Feelings?
From first-day drop-offs to homework battles and everything in between, school can stir up a lot, for our kids and for us. Whether it’s worry, pride, guilt, or frustration, it’s more than just reading and writing. In this episode, we talk about why school hits so deep, what it brings up from our own pasts, and how to support our kids (and ourselves) through it all.Thanks for listeni
Ep. 9 Is It Just Us Or...Are Parents Judged No Matter What We Do?
Screens, snacks, sleep routines, every decision feels like it’s up for debate. And sometimes, it’s not just others judging us... it’s that inner critic too. In this episode, we unpack the pressure, the guilt, and the silent weight of feeling like you’re always getting it wrong. Let’s talk about how judgment shows up, and how to quiet the noise.\Thanks so much for listening xHayley and Debbie are b
Ep. 8 Is It Just Us Or... Do Friendships Feel Harder As You Get Older
Juggling life, children, work- it’s no wonder friendships feel harder to hold onto as we get older. But no one talks about how lonely it can feel. In this episode, we dive into the reality of drifting apart, the guilt of not reaching out, and why it’s not just you if you’re missing the closeness and the craic you once had! Thank you so ,much for listening xHayley and Debbie are both Chil
Ep. 7 Is It Just Us Or...Is Resilience Something We Need to Teach?
We all want our children to grow up resilient, able to handle life’s curveballs without falling apart. But what is resilience, really? And is it something we can actively teach, or does it just happen through experience?In this episode, we unpack what resilience actually looks like in children (it's not just “bouncing back”) and explore the subtle, everyday ways parents shape it, throug
Ep. 6 Is It Just Us...Or Do You Feel Guilty When It Comes To Play?
We all know play is important, but what if you don’t have the time… or simply don’t enjoy it? In this episode, we’re getting honest about the guilt that creeps in when play feels like a chore. We talk about why it’s so common to feel disconnected from play as a parent, what it means if you just don’t like it, and how to find playful connection in ways that actually work for you, too. Hayley a
Ep. 5 Is It Just Us...Or Does Becoming Parents Really Change Your Relationship
This week, we’re diving into the shifts that happen in relationships after children arrive, the good, the hard, and everything in between. From feeling like teammates one minute to total strangers the next, we talk about the ways parenthood tests connection and how it can deepen it too. If you’ve ever felt the stretch but still believe in finding your way back to each other, this one’s f
Ep. 4 Is It Just Us... Or Do We Need To Talk About Sleep Deprivation?
In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on one of the hardest, most unspoken parts of parenting—sleep deprivation. From brain fog to burnout, we chat about how lack of sleep impacts everything: your mood, your relationships, your patience, and even your sense of self. If you're running on empty and wondering if it’s just you… it’s not. You are not alone, and you’re not imagining how hard t
Ep. 3 Is It Just Us...Or Did Growing Up In 90s Diet Culture Impact Your Relationship With Your Body And Food?
Welcome to another episode of Is It Just Us...? In today’s episode, we’re reflecting on how growing up in the 90s – surrounded by diet culture, unrealistic beauty standards, and food guilt – has shaped our relationship with our bodies and food. Did it leave a lasting impact? We dig deep into our own experiences and explore how we can break free from these old patterns.Thanks for joining
Ep. 2 Is It Just Us… Or Are Phones Stealing SO Much From Us?
Welcome to episode two of Is It Just Us...? – where we dig into the tough realities of parenting. Today, we’re tackling a big one: Is it just us, or are phones stealing SO much from us as parents? We explore how our devices have become distractions, taking away from our time, attention, and connection with our kids.Thanks for tuning in! If this episode resonates with you, make sure to subscribe an
Ep. 1 Is It Just Us...Or Is Motherhood Harder Than We Expected?
Welcome to the very first episode of Is It Just Us...? – the podcast where we dive into the real, raw moments of motherhood. In today’s episode, we’re asking the big question: Is motherhood harder than we expected? Spoiler alert: you’re not alone if it is. We’ll share our thoughts, open up about the challenges, and explore the parts of parenting that often get overlooked.Thanks
Is It Just Us Trailer
Welcome to Is It Just Us...?A podcast for every parent who’s ever wondered if they’re the only one finding it all a bit… much. In each episode, we dive into the messy, beautiful, overwhelming parts of parenting and&
