What They Don’t Tell You (but we will!)

In this episode of What They Don’t Tell You, Matt and Emily Norris sit down with Zak Marks, founder of Kitt Medical, to talk about the reality of living with severe allergies, both as someone who has them, and as parents raising a child with one.Zak shares how his own experience with a life-threatening nut allergy inspired him to create Kitt Medical, a company on a mission to make schools and public spaces safer and better prepared for allergy emergencies.Together, they dive into the everyday fears that come with allergies, from navigating school lunches and birthday parties to managing anxiety and helping kids gain independence.Matt and Emily also open up about their son’s allergy journey, while Zak explains how Kitt Medical is changing the landscape of allergy preparedness and saving lives along the way.This is an honest, hopeful, and empowering conversation for any parent navigating allergies, or anyone who wants to understand just how serious, and misunderstood, they can be.🎧 What They Don’t Tell You - Real conversations about parenting, marriage, and everything in between.Speak to Kitt Medical:https://kittmedical.com/https://www.instagram.com/kittmedicalhttps://www.tiktok.com/@kittmedical

This week on What They Don’t Tell You, we sit down with writer, podcaster, and queen of parenting honesty Cat Sims (@notsosmugnow) for a conversation that’s as funny as it is heartfelt.From the hilarious chaos of parenting fails to the surprising lessons that come with raising kids, Cat opens up about the highs and lows of family life. She chats with us about how social media can be both a lifeline and a pressure cooker for parents, and shares her own approach to keeping her marriage strong while juggling kids, work, and everything in between.We also dive into how to talk about anxiety and mental health with children, and what it really takes to keep the spark alive when you’re knee-deep in family life.If you’ve ever laughed through a parenting fail, felt the weight of comparison online, or wondered how other couples make it work, this episode is a must-listen. Follow Cat and order her books https://notsosmugnow.komi.io/

This week on What They Don’t Tell You, Emily and Matt sit down with dietitian and author Nichola Ludlam-Raine to unpack the hot topic of ultra-processed foods (UPFs). From sneaky “healthy” products that are more processed than you’d think, to the everyday guilt parents feel about feeding their kids, Nichola breaks down the science in a relatable, real-world way.They chat about how to make peace with UPFs without cutting everything out, the swaps that actually work for busy families, and why balance matters more than perfection. Plus, Nichola shares how writing her book changed the way she feeds her own family, and gives her top one small change tip for anyone feeling overwhelmed.It’s a refreshing, guilt-free conversation about food, family, and the reality of modern life.Follow Nichola https://www.instagram.com/nicsnutritionVisit her website https://nicsnutrition.com/Grab her book https://amzn.eu/d/3VZ9Uvw

Fussy eating is one of those parenting challenges that can leave you stressed, second-guessing yourself, and wondering if your child will ever eat more than pasta and plain bread. In this episode of What They Don’t Tell You, we sit down with children’s eating expert Emma Shafqat to unpack everything parents need to know about picky eating.We dive into:What actually defines a “fussy eater” (and why it’s not just about refusing veggies)The myths and misunderstandings that make parents feel like they’re failingThe biological and psychological reasons behind why kids might reject foodsThe biggest mistakes parents make (without even realising it!)Practical, realistic strategies to ease mealtime battles and help kids expand their food choicesWhen fussy eating is normal—and when it might signal a deeper issueWhether you’ve got a toddler throwing peas on the floor or a school-aged child who won’t touch anything green, this conversation is full of reassurance, expert insight, and down-to-earth advice.Reach Emma via Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dietitian.withadifference/ or her website https://dietitianwithadifference.co.uk/emma-shafqat/

In this episode of "What They Don’t Tell You", we sit down with the incredible Nadia Thorburn, mum of four, including a set of spontaneous triplets, for a raw and relatable conversation about what it’s really like to go from one child to four almost overnight.From the moment she found out she was expecting triplets, to navigating a high-risk pregnancy, endless nappies, and zero sleep, Nadia shares the emotional and physical toll of raising multiples, and the unexpected joys too. She opens up about the impact on her relationship, mental health, and identity, as well as the often-overlooked reality of parenting three babies at once.We dive into what daily life looks like, the myths people believe about triplets, and the incredible support system that keeps her going. Plus, she shares her top hacks and one golden piece of advice for any parent-to-be hearing the word "triplets" for the first time.This is an honest, warm, and inspiring chat that pulls back the curtain on a parenting experience few truly understand, and you won’t want to miss it.Follow Nadia on instagram https://www.instagram.com/nadia_thorburn

Today’s guest is Emily’s lovely friend Jemma Solomon - aka The Label Lady! Jemma is a mum of three, a former nurse, and the founder of one of the most recognisable home organisation brands in the UK. She's someone who’s built a hugely successful business from scratch - using Instagram and a whole lot of grit.In this fun, honest, and inspiring chat, we cover everything from career changes to family life, social media pressure, and navigating renovation chaos with your partner.In this episode, we’ll chat about: How Jemma went from NHS nurse to successful entrepreneur The reality of running a business on social media while raising kids What it’s really like being in the public eye (with a famous sister!) Parenting styles, boundaries, and how she shows up for her kids Her recent health and fitness journey - and what’s kept her motivated Her upcoming home renovation (and whether she’s more “Pinterest plan” or “wing it”) Encouragement for anyone thinking of making a big life change Whether you're dreaming of starting something new or just need a good dose of real talk and motivation, Jemma brings the laughs, the insight, and a whole lot of heart.✨ Follow Jemma @label.lady.1 or shop her labels at https://www.thelabellady.com

Today, we're joined by the brilliant Marie Louise – better known as The Modern Midwife – to talk about What They Don’t Tell You... about birth, recovery and the mental load of motherhood. With over a decade of NHS experience and two children of her own, Marie shares expert advice and honest truths about pregnancy, birth plans, pain relief, mum guilt, intrusive thoughts, and the pressure on modern mums to “do it all.” In this episode, we’ll talk about: What birth plans are really for – and how to prepare for the unpredictable Why it’s not normal for breastfeeding to hurt The pressure to “bounce back” and why it's time to let that go Intrusive thoughts and the early signs of postnatal anxiety How partners can truly support new mums We hope this conversation reassures, informs and supports you – whether you're pregnant, postpartum, or supporting someone who is. Follow Marie on Instagram @the_modern_midwife and check out her books and courses at themodernmidwife.com.

Today, we're joined by a very special guest — former Love Islander, presenter, and total straight-talker Amy Hart! In this honest and hilarious episode, we chat about What They Don’t Tell You About... New Motherhood, Influencing, and Finding Your Magic. Amy shares what life is really like behind the grid.In this episode, we’ll talk about: The parts of motherhood no one prepares you for Feeding journeys, sleep routines, and doing things your way Why “being a magic mum” is worth the late nights Raising a toddler while juggling fame, filming and trolls The impact of parenting on relationships — and how she's keeping the spark alive The pressure to “do motherhood right” online Follow Amy on Instagram at @amyhartxo and check out her podcast Amy Hart’s Mum Club.

Today, we’re talking about something fun, practical and full of personality — What They Don’t Tell You About... Designing a Family Home! We’re joined by interior designer and mum-of-two Abby from Ginger Nest Interiors, who helps families create homes that are stylish, functional and genuinely liveable (yes, even with messy kids). In this episode, we talk: How to design kids’ rooms that grow with them Mistakes people make when decorating themselves (step away from the feature wall) The power of accessories, layout and lighting Storage hacks, smart high-street finds, and under-bed secrets What to avoid if you're buying a sofa... and why you shouldn't put the sink in your kitchen island Whether you’re starting from scratch or just want a refresh, Abby’s tips will help you create a space you love — without losing your mind or your style. Follow Abby on Instagram at @gingernestinteriors and @gingernestinteriors_kids, or head to gingernestinteriors.com to learn more.

Today, we’re talking about something really important and long overdue — What They Don’t Tell You About... Talking To Your Kids About P0rn. We’re joined by leading child psychologist Aisling O'Connor, who’s here to help parents protect their children from online dangers — including exposure to pornography, predators in gaming apps, and the reality of growing up in a digital world.This episode covers: The shocking age most children first see graphic online images (it’s much younger than you think) How porn affects children’s brains, self-image, and expectations Why Roblox, Fortnite, and even YouTube Kids aren’t as safe as you might think What works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to parental controls The one thing that protects kids more than anything else online There are also some practical tools — like how to spot hidden apps, creating a family safety contract, and how to start conversations without shame or fear. Learn more or join Aisling’s Online Safety Academy via Instagram @aisling_childpsychologist or check out her Online Safety Academy

Today, we're doing something a little different — it’s a What They Don’t Tell You Q&A Special! We asked for your parenting questions, and you delivered. From tips and tricks to struggles and transitions, we’re chatting through it all with our usual mix of honesty, humour and chaos! In this episode, we’ll talk about: The easiest (and hardest!) ages so far Potty training, co-sleeping and surviving teething How to keep the “sparkle” alive in your relationship Handling sibling dynamics and one-on-one time Swearing, social exclusion, and awkward school situations And... who’s most likely to get arrested?! We’re answering your most asked questions completely off the cuff — no prep, just real-life parenting chat. Got a question for a future episode? Email us at emilynorrisloves@gmail.com or message us on Instagram @whattheydonttellyoupod.

Today, we're talking about What They Don't Tell You... about feeding kids! From purees and baby-led weaning to hidden veg hacks and picky eaters, we’re getting into the chaos, stress, and occasional triumph of getting food into little humans. With three kids well out of the toddler stage, we’re sharing what we’ve learned along the way – the wins, the regrets, and the hilarious moments too! In this episode, we’ll cover: Weaning 101: What we did right (and wrong) with each child Baby-led vs. puree: why we landed somewhere in the middle Toddler food battles and picky eaters Hidden veg, fun meals, and the power of Hulk smoothies Our go-to hacks, lazy dinners, and sanity-saving routines We hope this chat brings you some ideas, a few laughs, and a reminder that it does get easier! Share your food fails, wins and tips with us on Instagram at @whattheydonttellyoupod or email emilynorrisloves@gmail.com.

Today, we're talking about something slightly different and it's... What They Don't Tell You about marriage and parenting! We've got 10 tips on how to have a better & stronger marriage... but we're doing this episode mainly because we need reminding!In this episode, we'll talk about The impact of upbringings and how our parents have impacted the way we are today Embracing differences Scheduling quality time with each other - day dates are the way to go Creating traditions - not just with the kids but with each other too Understanding each other's love languages Teamwork in marriage And we'll read through some of your tips for staying strong in your relationship We hope that the humour, honesty and practical advice in this episode inspires you to take a bit of time for each other and remember why you're together! We would love to hear your tips for a healthy & happy relationship and would love to hear your thoughts and feedback too. Send us an email at emilynorrisloves@gmail.com.See you next week x