Is It Just Us?
Kids & Family
About
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 life, with honesty, humour, and heart. From sleep deprivation to screen battles, identity shifts to unexpected joys—we talk about it all.Because it’s never just you.🎧 Subscribe now and join us each week—where real talk meets real connection.Thanks for listening, Debbie and Hayley x Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
- BONUS EP Is It Just Us Or...Do We Need To Talk About Parenting Boys?
This bonus episode of "Is It Just Us?" focuses on the topic of parenting boys. The hosts discuss common challenges and offer insights on how to support boys as they grow. The episode also mentions a related webinar and a parent support hub.
- Ep. 52 Is It Just Us Or... Does Babysitting Feel Riskier These Days?
This episode of "Is It Just Us?" discusses whether babysitting feels riskier these days. The hosts reflect on their experiences as teens and parents, exploring how the role has changed for today's youth.
- Ep. 51 Is It Just Us Or... Do We Need To Talk About PMDD and Peri Meno With Guest Caitlin Kirrane
Caitlin Kirrane shares her personal experiences with PMDD and perimenopause. She also discusses her life with four children in a mobile home while building their dream home.
- Ep. 50 Is It Just Us Or... Did Our Teenage Jobs Teach Us More Than School Ever Did?
This episode of "Is It Just Us?" discusses teenage jobs, the lessons learned from them, and how these experiences compare to formal education. The hosts reflect on their own experiences and consider how current teens' independence and fina…
- Ep. 49 Is It Just Us Or...Do We Need To Hear From The Teens With Guest Shonagh O' Sullivan
Shonagh O' Sullivan joins "Is It Just Us?" to discuss the world of teenagers, social media, friendships, and parenting, drawing from her TED Talk "Behind The Selfie." The conversation also covers her experience with Snapchat and Coco's Law.
- Ep. 48 Is It Just Us Or...Is There Nothing Down About Down Syndrome
In this episode, Ciara and James Carty discuss their experiences with their daughter, Iris, who has Down Syndrome. They share Iris's story, the challenges they faced, and how their lives have improved. The conversation highlights their jou…
- Ep. 47 Is It Just Us Or...Is The Manosphere a Grim Reality For Parents?
This episode of Is It Just Us? discusses Louis Theroux's "Manosphere" documentary, focusing on how boys are influenced online and offering advice for parents to protect their children in the digital world. The hosts are Child and Adolescen…
- Ep. 46 Is It Just Us Or...Do We Need To Hear From The Dads?! With Guest Stephen "Cowboy" Kelly
In this episode of Is It Just Us?, hosts Hayley and Debbie are joined by guest Stephen "Cowboy" Kelly. The conversation covers Stephen's experiences as a father of five, his career, and his personal journey involving resilience, life lesso…
- Ep. 45 Is It Just Us Or...Do We Need To Talk About Parental Separation?
In this episode, hosts Hayley and Debbie discuss parental separation. They explore common issues encountered in their work and provide advice on how parents can support themselves and their children throughout the process.
- Ep. 44 Is It Just Us Or...Is Perspective Everything? with Guest Charlene Flanagan
In this episode of Is It Just Us?, hosts Hayley and Debbie are joined by Charlene Flanagan, CEO and co-founder of the skincare brand Ella & Jo. The conversation explores Charlene's experiences with motherhood, balancing work and life, and…
- Ep. 43 Is It Just Us Or...Is Being The Default Parent Hard Going!?
In this episode of Is It Just Us?, hosts Hayley and Debbie discuss the concept of the "default" parent, sharing personal experiences and insights on its impact. They also explore strategies to navigate the challenges associated with this r…
- Ep. 42 Is It Just Us Or...Are Eating Disorders Still A Tricky Topic?
During Eating Disorders Awareness Week, Aoife O' Brien of AOB Coaching discusses eating distress and eating disorders, while Debbie shares her experiences. The conversation includes resources for support and information about the guests' p…
- Ep. 41 Is It Just Us Or...Is Bedtime The Hardest Part Of The Day?
In this episode of Is It Just Us?, hosts Hayley and Debbie discuss the challenges of bedtime routines with children. The psychotherapists share their own experiences and offer tips for managing the chaos of the end of the day.
- Ep. 40 Is It Just Us Or...Would Parenting Be Easier If....?
In their 40th episode, hosts Hayley and Debbie discuss the challenges of parenting using listener submissions from Instagram. The therapists also share their experience staying at the Breaffy House Resort.
- Ep. 39 Is It Just Us Or...Does Nobody Know What Play Therapy Actually Is?
Child and Adolescent Psychotherapists Hayley and Debbie discuss the practice of play therapy, explaining how it works and sharing experiences from their careers. The hosts also highlight the wisdom of children and the value of play.
- Ep. 38 Is It Just Us Or...Is Changing Careers Something We All Think About?
In this episode, hosts Hayley and Debbie discuss their transition from primary school teaching to careers in child and adolescent psychotherapy. They reflect on their personal professional journeys and offer support for those considering a…
- Ep. 37 Is It Just Us Or...Is Autistic Barbie More Than A Doll?
In this episode of Is It Just Us? psychotherapists Hayley and Debbie discuss the significance of Mattel’s first autistic Barbie, exploring the impact of inclusive representation in toys on play and child identity.
- Ep. 36 Is It Just Us Or...Do We Need to Talk About Grok?
In this episode, hosts Hayley and Debbie discuss the AI image editing app Grok, focusing on its features and its impact on the online world. They aim to provide information and guidance to listeners regarding the app's implications.
- Ep. 35 Is It Just Us Or...Do You Need A Reset More Than A Resolution
In this episode of Is It Just Us?, hosts Hayley and Debbie discuss why a New Year's reset may be more beneficial than a resolution. They share personal methods for calming the nervous system and resetting routines and boundaries after a bu…
- Ep. 34 Is It Just Us Or...Do We Need A Christmas Deload?
Hayley and Debbie discuss the realities of the festive season, including the challenges of stress, grief, and fatigue. They explore the idea of a post-Christmas recovery period and mention their upcoming 5-day behaviour reset challenge.
- Ep. 33 Is It Just Us Or...Is F.I.R.M. Parenting The Way Forward?
In this episode, hosts Hayley and Debbie discuss their F.I.R.M. Parenting approach, its origins, and provide behind-the-scenes insights into their work. The episode also includes information on their professional backgrounds and services.
- Ep. 32 Is It Just Us Or...Do We Need To Talk About ADHD?
In this episode, hosts Hayley and Debbie explore the topic of ADHD following listener demand. They discuss parental concerns, questions, and the confusion often associated with navigating an ADHD diagnosis.
- Ep. 31 Is It Just Us Or...Do We Need To Talk To Jack O' Dea?
In this special episode of 'Is It Just Us?', hosts Hayley and Debbie speak with Jack O'Dea, a 22-year-old Masters student with ADHD since childhood. Jack discusses his life experiences, including challenges in school and social settings, w…
- Ep. 30 Is It Just Us Or...Are Phones Stealing Childhood?
The podcast episode 'Is It Just Us Or...Are Phones Stealing Childhood?' explores the debate around smartphones for children and teens. Hosts Hayley and Debbie, child psychotherapists and mothers, discuss the pros, cons, and impacts of smar…
- Ep 29 Is It Just Us Or...Do We Need A Life Update!
In episode 29 of "Is It Just Us?", hosts Hayley and Debbie, who are Child and Adolescent Psychotherapists, provide a life update covering home and work news. They encourage listener feedback and mention podcast sponsors Mimi Toys and Breaf…
- Ep. 28 Is It Just Us Or.. Is Skin Care For Toddlers A Step Too Far?
In episode 28, hosts Hayley and Debbie discuss a new skincare range for toddlers, examining the message it sends and the potential benefits of "home spa" play. They also address the tween skincare trend, sharing their perspectives as paren…
- Ep. 27 Is It Just US Or...Do We Need To Talk About Toy Guns?
In episode 27, hosts and child therapists Debbie and Hayley discuss the topic of toy guns and their relation to aggression. Debbie shares insights from a recent TV appearance on the subject.
- Ep. 26 Is It Just Us Or...Is "Calm Parenting" Completely Unrealistic?
Hayley and Debbie, child psychotherapists and mothers, challenge the ideal of "calm parenting" in Ep. 26 of "Is It Just Us?". They advocate for emotional regulation, repair, reconnection, and modeling a range of emotions, encouraging paren…
- Ep. 25 Is It Just Us Or...Do We Need To Talk About UPFs?
Hayley and Debbie discuss Ultra Processed Foods (UPFs), examining whether concerns are overblown or warrant attention, especially in relation to eating disorders. Debbie shares her experience with eating disorder recovery.
- Ep. 24 Is It Just Us… or Is Slapping Never Okay?
In episode 24, hosts Hayley and Debbie, child psychotherapists, discuss why slapping children is never acceptable. They explore the damage to trust, modeling aggression, and offer practical, firm, calm, and loving alternatives for managing…
- Ep. 23 Is It Just Us.. Or Is FAFO Parenting Actually a Thing?
Hayley and Debbie, both Child and Adolescent Psychotherapists, discuss the concept of 'FAFO' (Fuck Around & Find Out) parenting. They explore the challenges of a hands-off approach, the importance of balancing natural consequences with sup…
- Ep. 22 Is It Just Us... Or Does Bonnie Blue Scare You Too?
Hayley and Debbie, psychotherapists and mothers, discuss the accessibility of online pornography for children and teenagers. They emphasize the importance of parental guidance in navigating this topic to ensure children are safe, informed,…
- Ep. 21 Is It Just Us.. or are Days Out/Holidays Kinda Stressful?
Hayley and Debbie, both Child and Adolescent Psychotherapists, discuss the unexpected stress and overwhelm that can accompany family outings and holidays. They acknowledge the pressures of creating positive experiences while managing logis…
- Ep. 20 Is It Just Us Or...Do We Need To Talk About YouTube?
In this episode, child psychotherapists Hayley and Debbie discuss the potential risks of YouTube, including addictive content and overstimulation, and how these affect children's behavior. They also share practical parenting strategies to…
- Ep. 19 Is It Just Us Or...Is Parenting On The Same Page Incredibly Hard?
In episode 19 of 'Is It Just Us?', hosts Hayley and Debbie discuss the difficulties parents face when their styles clash regarding discipline, routines, and managing meltdowns. They explore the 'good cop/bad cop' dynamic and offer therapis…
- Ep. 18 Is It Just Us Or...Is Work-Life Balance A Myth?
Hayley and Debbie, Child and Adolescent Psychotherapists, discuss the societal pressures and guilt women face in achieving work-life balance, questioning its existence and offering potentially more achievable perspectives.
- Ep. 17 Is It Just Us or Is Everyone Having a Tantrum These Days?
Child and Adolescent Psychotherapists Hayley and Debbie discuss adult tantrums, exploring the role of stress and emotions in meltdowns. They share personal strategies and techniques that help both children and adults manage difficult emoti…
- Ep. 16 Is it Just Us Or....Do We Need To Talk About Sex?
This episode of "Is It Just Us?" addresses common myths that prevent parents from discussing sex, consent, body autonomy, pleasure, and safety with their children. Hosts Hayley and Debbie, child psychotherapists and mothers, emphasize the…
- Ep. 15 Is It Just Us Or....Do People Think Gentle Parenting Means Being a Doormat?
This episode of 'Is It Just Us?' clarifies the concept of gentle parenting, explaining that it involves setting firm limits and maintaining emotional connection, rather than being passive or permissive. Hosts Hayley and Debbie, both child…
- Ep. 14 Is It Just Us Or... Is It Just Me? Quick Fire Edition
In this quick-fire edition of Is It Just Us?, hosts Hayley and Debbie share rapid-fire takes on a variety of relatable topics, ranging from parenting fails to everyday oddities.
- Ep. 13 Is It Just Us Or...Is "Being Good" Totally Overrated?
This episode of 'Is It Just Us?' questions the value of "being good," as defined by societal expectations of restriction and compliance. Hosts Hayley and Debbie, child psychotherapists, explore how this concept can foster people-pleasing a…
- Ep. 12 Is It Just Us Or... Is There Way Too Much Shame Around Boobies or Bottles?
In this episode of Is It Just Us?, hosts Hayley and Debbie discuss the shame and societal judgement surrounding breast and bottle feeding. They share personal experiences and reflect on the pressure and comparisons parents face in the newb…
- Ep. 11 Is It Just Us Or...Do We Need To Talk About Botox?
In episode 11, hosts Hayley and Debbie, both Child and Adolescent Psychotherapists, discuss the societal pressures surrounding aging, fine lines, and the expectation to maintain a youthful appearance, exploring the impact of the beauty ind…
- Ep. 10 Is It Just Us Or... Does School Bring Up All The Feelings?
In this episode of 'Is It Just Us?', hosts Hayley and Debbie, both child psychotherapists, delve into the wide range of emotions school can trigger in children and parents, such as worry, pride, and guilt. They discuss the deeper reasons b…
- Ep. 9 Is It Just Us Or...Are Parents Judged No Matter What We Do?
Hayley and Debbie, Child and Adolescent Psychotherapists, discuss the immense pressure and guilt parents feel due to constant judgment on their decisions. They explore how this judgment manifests and offer ways to manage self-criticism.
- Ep. 8 Is It Just Us Or... Do Friendships Feel Harder As You Get Older
This episode of 'Is It Just Us?' addresses the difficulties adults face in maintaining friendships due to life pressures. Hosts Hayley and Debbie, both Child and Adolescent Psychotherapists, discuss loneliness, drifting apart, and the guil…
- Ep. 7 Is It Just Us Or...Is Resilience Something We Need to Teach?
This episode of 'Is It Just Us?' delves into the concept of childhood resilience, questioning if it can be taught or if it's solely learned through experience. Hosts discuss everyday parenting methods that build emotional strength, contras…
- Ep. 6 Is It Just Us...Or Do You Feel Guilty When It Comes To Play?
Parents Hayley and Debbie, both child psychotherapists and mothers, discuss the common guilt associated with play not feeling enjoyable or time-consuming. They explore why parents might feel disconnected from play and offer ways to find pl…
- Ep. 5 Is It Just Us...Or Does Becoming Parents Really Change Your Relationship
Hayley and Debbie, psychotherapists and mothers, discuss the impact of parenthood on relationships, covering both the difficulties and the ways connection can deepen. This episode is for parents experiencing relationship strains while seek…
- Ep. 4 Is It Just Us... Or Do We Need To Talk About Sleep Deprivation?
Hayley and Debbie, child psychotherapists and mothers, discuss the realities of sleep deprivation for parents, covering its effects on mood, relationships, and self. They assure listeners that this struggle is common.