So, we asked our community and the team at My First Five Years HQ for their favourite podcasts around pregnancy and parenting. This not an exhaustive list (there are SO many to choose from) but hopefully this gives you a good start.
We’ve tried to use a variety of links, but most of these podcasts are available on lots of different devices and channels, so a quick search should help you find a way to listen.
Get your headphones in, and enjoy.
My First Five Years Podcast – https://podfollow.com/my-first-five-years
Happy Mum Happy Baby – https://open.spotify.com/episode/0kQA0nQPTu2SGOCaH8tIK6
One of our mums described this as “an absolute lifesaver to listen to during the early months”. A podcast by Giovanna Fletcher with a big back catalogue of frank and honest conversations for both mums and dads about the highs and lows of parenting. Episodes often feature well-known and expert guests, and tackle difficult subjects in a reassuring way.
If These Ovaries Could Talk – https://www.ovariestalk.com/
“Sharing stories of LGBTQ family life with the world” – more than 150 episodes sharing realities, science and a whole, whole lot of love. Jaimie Kelton and E Bradshaw tell the stories that need to be told in this brilliantly open and funny podcast.
The Motherkind Podcast – https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-motherkind-podcast/id1295306961
For self-care support and guidance you shouldn’t miss this beautifully calming and informative podcast. Zoe Blaskey interviews world leaders and shares her own advice around mental health, healing and going gently on yourself as a mother. Definitely one for the kit bag, this is a podcast you can return to time and again for a reassuring, supportive voice. Perfect for pregnancy and beyond.
Good Inside – https://www.goodinside.com/podcast/
Clinical psychologist Dr Becky Kennedy answers a whole host of questions around child behaviour, including topics like attachment, mindfulness and emotional regulation. This one will come into its own once you have slightly older children, but anyone with any interest in psychology or a desire to think how they hope to parent would enjoy a listen right now.
Evolutionary Parenting – https://evolutionaryparenting.com/evolutionary-parenting-podcast-2/
Described as where science and history meet parenting , The Evolutionary Parenting Podcast with Tracy Cassels, PhD, is a bit different to the ones we’ve already mentioned. Don’t expect light chat and honest parenting stories, this is one those looking for a bit more depth and detail on topics like, ‘understanding a child’s sensitivity to their environment’.
Made by Mamas – https://open.spotify.com/show/4OZPAPDvYFc0ag51EqPTbN
Recommended by a few of our team, TV presenter and radio broadcaster Zoe Hardman and Georgia Dayton talk all things parenting and parenthood in this chatty, reassuring podcast. This one is good for hearing about the brands and products they love, as well as interviews with interesting people in the parenting world.
Motherhood in Black and White – https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/motherhood-in-black-white/id1525043882
“You need to include Motherhood in Black and White,” urged one of our team. Hosted by Gen X mums, Kaanji Irby and Tara Campbell, this brilliant podcast by two mothers, one black and one white, chats about parenting and pop culture. It discusses hugely important topics such as why representation matters and anti-bias awareness. Definitely one to add to your list.
Is it Normal? The Pregnancy Podcast with Jessie Ware – https://linktr.ee/isitnormalpodcast
“I’ve been all over this podcast while pregnant,” said one of our community. In this podcast, Jessie Ware tracks her pregnancy week by week as she speaks to experts to explore and reassure you about all the changes going on in your body while you are growing a baby. A brilliant one to listen to right now!
The Longest Shortest Time – https://longestshortesttime.com/
This podcast is no longer producing new episodes but there are so many great old ones that we couldn’t not include it. Celebrating parenting in all its forms, there are so many real stories from their community which bring to life a whole range of experiences from transracial adoption through to polyamorous parenting and using a sperm doner. Lots are backed up with suggested reading and further resources. Definitely not just for parents or parents to be, you won’t find an episode you’ll regret listening to.
Dope Black Mums – https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/dope-black-mums-podcast/id1570141425
Described as a digital sisterhood, this is a safe space for black women to navigate motherhood together. There are 57 episodes on a range of important issues. Founded by Nina Malone, expect flowing conversation, very few apologies and lots of laughter.
Parenting Hell – https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/rob-beckett-and-josh-widdicombes-parenting-hell/id1510251497
Comedians Rob Beckett and Josh Widdicombe share their tales of fatherhood – this one is about parenting but not parenting as you might know it. “Parenting hell is my absolute fave,” raved one of our community. This one is an easy listen full of stories that will make you laugh out loud and definitely helps to make parenting feel a bit less daunting and a bit more fun.
The Therapy Edit – https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-therapy-edit/id1505968557
Last, but absolutely not least, these short ten-minute pep talks by psychotherapist Anna Mathur are wonderful. Anna is a best-selling author who is passionate about “taking therapy outside of the therapy room” and her words, largely focused on motherhood, are great for confidence and self-esteem.