The Parents Who Think podcast interrupts our parenting status quo. Join Danusia Malina-Derben entrepreneur, author and mother of 10 for no-holds-barred debates between intelligent parents with diverse perspectives as they deliver raw and unfiltered opinions on crucial parenting dilemmas. Whether you see yourself as a mainstream parent or embrace 'marginalized' views, PWT injects clarity into the hard realities of parenthood. Agreement is not the goal in the show; it's about finding your unique…
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What happens when a father dares to speak the truth the world hasn't made space for? In this episode of Parents Who Think, host Danusia Malina-Derben speaks with Elliot Rae—author, speaker, and founder of Music Football Fatherhood—in a conversation about emotional fluency, gender equality, and the revolution unfolding inside modern fatherhood. They explore what happens after traumatic birth and…
What does it really mean to mother across time—through babyhood, adolescence, heartbreak, grief, and desire? On this episode of Parents Who Think, Clover Stroud joins Danusia Malina-Derben for a conversation that names the unspoken. They talk about what happens to a woman when she mothers across decades, not just in nappies and sleepless nights, but when her teenage son is getting expelled while…
What happens when your child's diagnosis doesn't just change your daily routine, it changes your entire business model? In this episode of Parents Who Think, Danusia Malina-Derben talks with psychologist and executive coach Jessica Chivers about how motherhood redefines ambition, and reshapes working life in ways no corporate handbook prepares you for. Jessica opens up about navigating exclusions,…
What does risk really look like when you're a mother and when you're not willing to blow up your life to chase a dream? In this episode, Danusia is joined by entrepreneur Colleen Wong, who talks about building her business on calculated risks, not chaos. They get into what happens when your startup is hacked by a government body, how to run a company with four mothers in customer service and zero…
In this episode of Parents Who Think, Danusia Malina-Derben sits down with Zoe Blaskey to explore what it really takes to stay connected to yourself when everyone else seems to come first. Zoe, founder and author of Motherkind and mother of two talks openly about the difference between performing wellness and actually tending to yourself. Together, she and Danusia unpack how easy it is to get lost…
Journalist and author Matt Blake joins Parents Who Think host Danusia Malina-Derben for a candid conversation about what it actually means to co-parent equally. Since his daughter was born, Matt has shared care 50/50 with her mother, through relationship shifts, career trade-offs, and a system that still assumes mothers carry the load. Together, Matt and Danusia explore how parenting redefines…
What if everything we thought we knew about screen time was the wrong conversation? In this episode, Danusia Malina-Derben joins Jordan Shapiro for a refreshingly grounded take on parenting in the digital age. Together, they unpack why most debates around tech and children are missing the point. Jordan challenges the obsession with duration, how long a child is online, and instead urges parents to…
Becoming a mother isn't just a personal change but a profound identity transformation on par with adolescence. In this episode of Parents Who Think, Danusia Malina-Derben is joined by Dr. Aurélie Athan, clinical psychologist and scholar of reproductive identity, whose groundbreaking work on matrescence reframes motherhood as a major developmental passage. Together, they unpack how motherhood…
In this episode of Parents Who Think, Danusia Malina-Derben speaks with Laura Vanderkam—author, researcher, and mother of five—about time. Not just how we spend it, but how we talk about it. Laura's work tracks how high-achieving women actually use their hours, and what she found flies in the face of everything we've been told: the women she studied weren't burned out, short-fused, or collapsing…
In this episode of Parents Who Think, host Danusia Malina-Derben is joined by Marisa Peer to discuss why "I am enough" is more than a mantra, it's a psychological reset that ripples through families. Drawing on decades of therapeutic work and her own personal evolution, Marisa unpacks how societal norms, school gate competition, and everyday self-criticism shape our belief systems. From writing…
What happens when a woman writes the truth the world isn't ready to hear? In this episode of Parents Who Think, host Danusia Malina-Derben joins Erica Jong, novelist, poet, and unapologetic icon, in a conversation about the power and price of honesty. They explore how female jealousy gets buried in family and friendship, how mothers and daughters carry inherited pain, and why admitting negative…
In this episode of Parents Who Think, Danusia Malina-Derben joins Ken Mossman for a layered and moving conversation about modern masculinity, emotional maturity, and what it means to be an integrated man. Ken brings wit and wisdom to topics most men were never taught to face: how to play, how to feel, and how to take responsibility without shame or performance. They explore why so many men exile…
Parents Who Think host Danusia Malina-Derben joins Clare Pooley in an unflinching conversation about motherhood, sobriety, and the silent unraveling that so often hides behind 'wine o'clock'." Together, Clare and Danusia speak frankly about alcohol as a socially sanctioned drug, the seductive myths around moderation, and the messy, non-linear journey of quitting. Clare offers sharp insights for…
In this episode of Parents Who Think, Danusia Malina-Derben talks with Stuart Lawrence, teacher, author, and younger brother of Stephen Lawrence, about what it means to carry grief and use it as a tool for change. Stuart reflects on stepping into a leadership role in his family after Stephen's murder, navigating the long and painful road toward justice, and discovering his own purpose through…
Danusia Malina-Derben talks with Rosie Sherry about what it really means to educate and parent outside the system. Rosie, a home educator and founder of a global tech community, shares the story of pulling her children out of school—not out of rebellion, but out of radical care. What followed wasn't just a change in schooling—it was a reordering of her entire life. Together, Danusia and Rosie talk…
Eldra Jackson doesn't soften the truth. And he doesn't offer redemption stories tied up in a bow. In this conversation, he speaks openly about the crimes that led to his 24-year prison sentence and the deeper inner work that began long after the bars closed behind him. Danusia Malina-Derben, host of Parents Who Think, joins Eldra to explore what happens when men are taught that power depends on…
When Suzy Walker began a mindfulness course, she didn't expect it to unearth a lifetime of suppressed grief. But in conversation with Danusia Malina-Derben, host of Parents Who Think, what unfolds is a raw, honest reflection on what happens when we stop running, and start listening. Danusia and Suzy explore the seductive trap of busyness, the spiritual disorientation of stillness, and the hidden…
What does real equality look like when you're parenting solo? In this moving conversation, Danusia interviews Michael Ray, a father who's raising his daughter on his own after her mother stepped away from their lives. What might sound like a tough beginning becomes a powerful dialogue on parenting, presence, and the messy realities of gendered expectations. Michael shares what it means to parent…
If you think menopause is just hot flashes and mood swings, Meg Mathews is here to set you straight. In this unfiltered episode, Meg opens up about how menopause knocked her sideways—crippling anxiety, misdiagnosis, zero libido—and how it took years before anyone mentioned hormones. That journey led to Meg's Menopause, a platform busting taboos and pushing for real education, access, and…
What does it really mean to be a good dad in a world that's (finally) rethinking power, privilege, and gender? Jordan Shapiro offers a fresh framework—one that demands more than just 'helping out' or being 'the fun one.' In this episode, we talk about radical inclusivity, critical consciousness, and why patriarchal manliness needs a total rethink. Jordan doesn't dodge the difficult stuff—he names…
We're told to be selfless. To give everything for our children. To die to ourselves for the sake of being a "good" mother and parent. But what if that's not the answer at all? In this fierce, funny, and deeply real conversation, Danusia is joined by Meredith Masony —a woman who came back from a health crisis with one loud, clear truth: she was done putting herself last. They talk about the myth of…
This episode, I speak with Simon Squibb, founder of HelpBnk and author of What's Your Dream? We dive into cultivating luck (hint: it's not random), why desperation can be a creative superpower, and how his mother kicking him out of the house became the very thing that made him. Simon shares his raw take on privilege, failure, and the myth of the A-grade life. We talk resilience, drive, and what it…
In this episode I sit down with Eve Rodsky, author of the groundbreaking book Fair Play, to discuss the often invisible and unequal labour dynamics that play out in our homes. We get into why women frequently become the "she-fault" parent, shouldering the brunt of domestic responsibilities and emotional labour, often at the expense of their own well-being and careers. Eve doesn't just identify the…
In this episode of Parents Who Think, Danusia gets into into a juicy conversation with Hollie McNish—award-winning poet, author, and performer. The focus? Female masturbation, sexuality, and shedding the centuries of shame surrounding women's pleasure. One of Hollie's books, Slug and Other Things I've Been Told to Hate, serves as the jumping-off point for this honest chat. Danusia and Hollie cover…
What happens when a woman is the breadwinner and her husband takes the lead at home? Apparently, a lot of raised eyebrows, unsolicited opinions, and a bizarre mix of pity and praise. Entrepreneur and mother Priscilla McKinney joins me to talk about flipping the script on traditional gender roles, how she and her husband Steve made the switch, and what it really means to thrive in a setup that…
Sex toys: ancient history, cultural icon, and—if Sarah Forbes has anything to say about it—essential to our understanding of sexuality. This week, Danusia sits down with the anthropologist and former curator of the Museum of Sex in New York to talk about the rise (and rise) of sex toys, the deep-rooted taboos around pleasure, and why we need to stop acting like vibrators were invented last week.…
We've been sold a lie: that working parents can "have it all" if they just work hard enough. Today, we're tearing that fantasy to shreds. Danusia Malina-Derben PWT host is in conversation with journalist and author Christine Armstrong. They get brutally honest about the impossible expectations of juggling kids, careers, and sanity. Burnout isn't a personal failure—it's a rigged system that needs…
From Self-Doubt to Self-Love with Jeanette Leblanc Ah, the old "you're too much" conundrum. Too loud, too opinionated, too ambitious, too everything—and somehow, simultaneously, not enough. If you've ever felt stuck in this impossible tug-of-war, you are not alone. Joining Danusia today is Jeanette Leblanc, writer, coach, and self-proclaimed champion of "too muchness." They get into what it means…
Motherhood and sexuality—two things we're told don't belong in the same sentence. But who made that rule? And why are we still following it? Steph wasn't about to. After decades of marriage, she found herself single, re-entering the dating world with a libido very much intact. But society had a different script for her: midlife divorce means fading into the background. Sex? Desire? Not for women…
Danusia Parents Who Think host, gets real with Dr. Shahzadi Harper about hormones, libido and why women's sex lives shouldn't have an expiration date. Shahzadi, a badass in women's health, spills the tea on how hormonal changes—hello, perimenopause—mess with your libido, energy, and self-confidence. But it's not all doom and gloom. They unpack how testosterone (yep, women have it too), oestrogen,…
What happens when a woman builds an empire that shatters every outdated idea about female sexuality, and then dares to become a mother? Today, we feature Emma Sayle—founder of Killing Kittens, global disruptor, and all-around unapologetic powerhouse. We're talking about breaking taboos, rewriting the rules of partnership and parenting, and why self-care isn't a luxury—it's a damn necessity. Emma…
Join Host, Danusia Malina-Derben brings you a powerful conversation with Dr Shoshana Garfield, a survivor of childhood torture and sexual abuse. Shoshana shares her journey of healing and self-reclamation, highlighting the importance of forgiveness, self-compassion, and relentless kindness. This episode explores the long-term impacts of trauma and the process of overcoming adversity to create a…
In this episode of Parents Who Think, Danusia is in conversation with Rachel Pesso, brand designer and unapologetic truth-teller, about her choice to skip motherhood—despite the relentless pressure to conform. Rachel gets real about the fear of judgment, the selfish-woman stereotype, and those infuriating "you'll change your mind" conversations. Spoiler: she hasn't. Together, they blow up the…
Danusia is joined by Yvadney Davis to explore the magic of fashion as self-expression. Whether it's metallic joggers, kaftans, or Katharine Hepburn-inspired classics, Yvadney serves up insights on owning your style unapologetically. From experimenting with bold looks to raising kids who feel confident in their clothing choices, this episode is a celebration of individuality. Yvadney even shares…
Today, host Danusia Malina-Derben is joined by author Uju Asika. She shares her powerful story of navigating childhood racism, the lessons it taught her, and why hope is at the heart of her work. We talk about when kids start noticing race, why "colorblind" parenting doesn't work, and how we can have honest, age-appropriate conversations about race. Uju also challenges us to lovingly examine our…
In this episode of Parents Who Think, Danusia interviews Selling Sunset star Mary Bonnet about her inspiring journey from being a teen mom to becoming a powerhouse in high-end real estate. Mary opens up about the challenges she faced raising her son at 15, the grit it took to thrive, and how she's still raising the bar. They discuss the work ethic Mary developed as a teen mom and how it shaped her…
Why is asking for what we want so hard? In this episode, host Danusia Malina-Derben gets into this question with guest Emer Brady, exploring the barriers many women face when advocating for themselves. From the subtleties of language to the power of body language, this conversation is packed with practical tips for anyone looking to show up stronger—especially in the workplace. You'll hear why…
In this episode, Danusia is joined by her daughter, Harriet Malina-Derben, for a candid conversation about the complexities of mother-daughter relationships. Together, they unpack the generational patterns that can trap these bonds in negativity, from societal expectations that pit women against each other to the stereotyped idea of "tricky" mother-daughter dynamics. This heartfelt exchange dives…
Perfection is overrated—especially in parenting. In this thought-provoking episode, Danusia Malina-Derben sits down with Dr Joanna Fortune, child psychotherapist and author, to challenge the myths of perfect parenting and embrace being "good enough." Joanna shares about the concept of parental stamina—how to recharge your tank without guilt—and why your own self-care isn't just essential but a…
Danusia Malina-Derben takes on the myth of "having it all" with Caroline Flanagan, author of Be the First and all-round powerhouse. Together, they shred the outdated idea that women need to do everything to have it all—and dig into what your "all" could look like. But that's not all. Imposter syndrome? They're calling it out for the fraud it is. Caroline shares her real-life experience of feeling…
What if you could feel more alive in your 80s than ever before? Meet Jane Wyker, the unstoppable force behind Soul Selfish: The Awakening of a Good Girl. Jane's story is proof that it's never too late to prioritise yourself, let go of toxic baggage, and embrace joy at every stage of life. Danusia and Jane unpack the inner work of shedding the "good girl" identity, balancing self-love with…
Danusia Malina-Derben sits down with Rebekah Taussig, author of Sitting Pretty: The View from My Ordinary, Resilient Disabled Body, to unpack the complexities of living with a disability. In this episode, Rebekah challenges the oversimplified narratives that often surround disabled lives and calls for a more inclusive, open-hearted perspective. From embracing her body to navigating pregnancy,…
Want your heart to skip a beat? Danusia Malina-Derben sits down with poet Kate Baer—three-time New York Times bestselling author of What Kind of Woman, I Hope This Finds You Well, and her latest, And Yet. They get real about everything from raw realities to anger simmering beneath the surface. Kate opens up about finding her voice amidst parenting, the poets who inspire her (think Mary Oliver and…
Guilt—it's the nagging companion of parenthood. Jo Wimble-Groves, creator of Guilty Mother, joins host Danusia Malina-Derben to unpack why so many parents feel this way and how to start shifting that guilt into something useful (yes, it's possible!). From screen time to sandwich choices, Jo's refreshing take on embracing imperfection and rethinking what it means to care will leave you feeling…
This week, Danusia Malina-Derben brings in Wies Bratby—founder of Women in Negotiation and self-proclaimed "women's butt kicker"—to break down why every woman needs to own her worth in the world of negotiation. It's not just about more zeros on the paycheck; it's about freedom, choices, and doing life on your own terms. Wies shares her wisdom on the art of asking for what you deserve—without the…
Host Danusia Malina-Derben gets real with Molly Forbes, author of "Body Happy Kids: How to raise children who love the skin they're in" for adults and "Every Body" for children. They're talking about one thing every parent worries about—how to raise kids who love their bodies in a world obsessed with diet culture. Spoiler: It's not about looking "pretty." Molly dishes out her no-BS take on raising…
In this minisode of Parents Who Think, host Danusia Malina-Derben sits down with Sarah Peck, CEO of Start Up Parent, to discuss the often unspoken realities of postpartum sex and recovery. Sarah shares her personal experiences, from healing after childbirth to the surprising physical challenges that follow. Danusia and Sarah also talk about living brazenly, including Sarah's daring naked swim from…
In this episode of Parents Who Think, host Danusia Malina-Derben explores Stoicism and its relevance to parenting. Drawing on her experience as a mother to 10 children, she reflects on how Stoic principles like control, patience, and detachment have shaped her approach to raising kids. But it's not just about personal resilience ~ Danusia also gets into the limits of Stoicism, especially when it…
In this episode of *Parents Who Think*, host Danusia Malina-Derben interviews Anna Pawlowicz, CEO of Humankind, about the often invisible role of caregivers in society. Anna opens up about the challenges faced by those who provide care, whether for children, elderly family members, or those with medical complexities, and why caregivers remain undervalued and unsupported. They explore the heavy…
In this rare solo episode, Danusia shares a self-care secret that's hiding in plain sight: cuddling a teddy bear. Yep, you heard right. We're talking about the comfort of snuggling up to a stuffed toy, and why it's not just for kids anymore. From CEOs sneaking plushies into bed to Supreme Court judges traveling with their own teddy, we unpack how this simple, often hidden habit can be a…
