The Blaze Trails Podcast

Blaze Trails

Hey there, and welcome to the Blaze Trails podcast! We’re so excited you’re here. Blaze Trails is the UK’s parent and baby walking community — and honestly, it’s all about getting outdoors, making memories, and feeling a little more like yourself again (with your baby in tow, of course!). We absolutely love helping parents feel confident outside — whether that’s by joining one of our 80+ local walking groups or hanging out with us online. Nature does wonders for us all, but let’s be real — getting out the front door with a baby isn’t always easy. That’s why we’ve created this podcast: to be a friendly voice in your ear while you walk, and a reminder that you’re not doing this alone. Our goal is simple: we want to nurture a sense of community, spark some inspiration, and help you feel more connected — to nature, to other parents, and to yourself. Think of this podcast as your walking buddy: here to lift you up, share stories, and keep you company on those baby-led adventures. Each episode, you’ll hear from your hosts — India, Iona, and Rehna — three Blaze Trails parents who know just how powerful (and sometimes messy!) getting outside with little ones can be. We’ll be diving into everything from practical tips for getting out there, to mental health, to how to find your village. Plus, we’ll bring you inspiring chats with guest experts and real stories from Blaze Trails parents across the country.

Episodes

  1. You Are Not Alone: Parenting, Mental Health & Finding Your People

    06/11/2025

    You Are Not Alone: Parenting, Mental Health & Finding Your People

    If you’re a new parent navigating the emotional rollercoaster of early parenthood, feeling isolated, or wondering if anyone else finds it this hard—this episode is for you. 💛 India, Rehna, and Iona open the episode with a candid conversation about loneliness in motherhood, the mental load of caring for little ones, and how hard it can be to ask for help. They reflect on how finding community—through something as simple as a walk—has been a lifeline in their own journeys. Later in the episode, India sits down with Ruth Dobson, a researcher and Blaze Trails parent, to talk about her work exploring loneliness and mental illness in the perinatal period—that crucial time during pregnancy and the first year after birth. Ruth shares her personal experience with postnatal depression, and how it inspired her to research and advocate for better support for new parents. They dive into the power of community support, how nature and movement can improve mental wellbeing, and why volunteering and local walking groups like Blaze Trails are making a difference for parents across the UK. This episode is honest, thoughtful, and filled with insights on how we can better support each other—and ourselves—through the messy, magical early years of parenthood. So whether you’re listening on a walk, during a nap break, or while juggling snacks and emotions—we’re right here with you. You can find out more about Ruth and her work with Blaze Trails @ruthoutside and www.perinatal-loneliness.com And don’t forget to follow, share, and tag us—we’d love to hear how you’re finding your community. ✨ Find out more @blaze.trails or blazetrails.org.uk Find out more @blaze.trails or blazetrails.org.uk

    59 min
  2. The Power of Community in Parenthood

    06/04/2025

    The Power of Community in Parenthood

    In this heartwarming episode of the Blaze Trails Podcast, hosts Rehna, Iona, and India open up about their personal experiences with community and how it has shaped their journeys through motherhood.  From the early, often isolating days of parenting to the joy of finding connection through shared walks and conversations, they reflect on how powerful it is to feel seen, supported, and surrounded by others who get it. Later in the episode, Rehna is joined by fellow parent, Blaze Trails Director and Community Manager Elizabeth for a deep and honest conversation about the essential role of community in parenting—especially through the magic of getting outside. Together, they share how meaningful connections have transformed their parenting experiences, and how outdoor spaces offer the perfect setting for those bonds to grow. They also dive into the evolving role of digital connection in modern parenthood, and how to strike a healthy balance between online support and face-to-face interaction. Whether you’re feeling isolated, overwhelmed, or just looking to build your village, this episode is a gentle reminder: you’re not alone—and community is often just a walk away. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or just starting to venture out with your little one, this episode is full of inspiration and practical advice to help you feel more confident, connected, and cared for—indoors and out. 🔗 Find out more about Elizabeth on Instagram: @withatoddlerintow Find out more @blaze.trails or blazetrails.org.uk

    48 min
  3. Sleep, Recovery & Pelvic Health - Preparing for Getting Outside

    05/28/2025

    Sleep, Recovery & Pelvic Health - Preparing for Getting Outside

    If you’re a new parent trying to balance sleep deprivation, postpartum recovery, and self-care, this episode is for you! India, Rehna, and Iona kick off the episode by sharing their personal experiences with physical health and becoming parents. They get real about the challenges of maintaining movement and emotional well-being after childbirth, the societal pressures around postpartum recovery, and the ongoing struggle to find balance between caring for little ones and taking time for themselves. Later in the episode, India sits down with Cher Hart, an osteopath specialising in women’s health, to dive deeper into postpartum recovery, pelvic health, and self-care strategies for new mums. Cher shares expert insights into hormonal changes, pelvic floor strength, and key recovery techniques, including the 555 protocol and Daily 7 movements, which help new mums reconnect with their bodies after birth. They also discuss getting outside for mental health, choosing the right baby carrier, and recognising red flags in postpartum recovery. This episode is packed with expert advice, real-life experiences, and practical tips to help you feel more confident in your postpartum journey. So whether you’re tuning in on a walk, enjoying a rare quiet moment, or just looking for reassurance that you’re doing great—we’ve got you. 💛 You can find out more about Cher here @livewellosteopathy livewellosteopathy.com And if you love this episode, don’t forget to follow, share, and tag us—we’d love to hear from you! 🚶‍♀️✨ Find out more @blaze.trails or blazetrails.org.uk

    57 min
  4. Navigating the Outdoors with Babies

    05/21/2025

    Navigating the Outdoors with Babies

    In this episode of the Blaze Trails Podcast, we’re diving into a great skill for parents who love getting outdoors with their little ones—navigation. Hosts Rehna  Iona and India share their personal experiences, discussing the importance of being prepared and the balance between technology and traditional navigation. They explore how building confidence in these skills can empower parents, making outdoor adventures safer and more enjoyable. Plus, they highlight the value of practice, learning from others, and embracing the journey—because let’s be honest, getting lost is sometimes part of the adventure! Later in the episode, Rehna sits down with outdoor leader Coriarna to chat about the joys and challenges of exploring nature with young children. They cover route planning, navigation techniques, and the importance of preparation, along with plenty of practical tips for making outdoor adventures fun and stress-free. Coriarna also shares her wisdom on communication, adaptability, and the magic of creating family memories in nature. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or just starting to venture out with your little one, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable advice to help you feel more confident outdoors.  You can find out more about Corianna here - @blazetrails_staffordshire And if you loved this episode, don’t forget to follow, share, and tag us—we’d love to hear about your outdoor adventures! 🚶‍♀️✨ Find out more @blaze.trails or blazetrails.org.uk

    42 min
  5. First Aid Essentials for Outdoor Adventures with Little Ones

    05/07/2025

    First Aid Essentials for Outdoor Adventures with Little Ones

    In this episode of the Blaze Trails Podcast, India, Iona, and Rehna are diving into a must-know topic for every outdoor-loving parent—first aid essentials. From personal experiences to practical tips, we’re talking about what you really need in your first aid kit and why it’s so important to be prepared when out exploring with little ones. India also chats with Sammy from Happy Hearts, a former registered nurse who now runs first aid training specifically for parents. She shares her journey into first aid education and breaks down the key skills every parent should know, plus what to pack in your first aid kit for outdoor adventures. We also get into the nitty-gritty of dealing with ticks—how to remove them properly, why it matters, and how to stay calm if your child gets one (yep, Sammy shares her own real-life experience with this!). Plus, we talk about emergency situations—when to seek help, how to stay prepared, and how tools like the What3Words app can be a lifesaver when you’re out in nature. This episode is packed with practical tips and reassurance to help you feel more confident when heading outdoors with your little ones. So, grab your headphones, maybe even check your first aid kit while you listen, and join us for this essential conversation!  You can connect with Sammy here - @happyheartsfirstaid https://www.happyheartsfirstaid.com/ And if you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to follow, share, and tag us on social media—we love hearing from you!  Find out more @blaze.trails or blazetrails.org.uk

    53 min
  6. Finding Our Way: Parenthood, Community, and the Story Behind Blaze Trails

    04/30/2025

    Finding Our Way: Parenthood, Community, and the Story Behind Blaze Trails

    Welcome to the very first episode of the Blaze Trails Podcast! In this debut episode, your hosts India, Rehna, and Iona get real about the rollercoaster ride of parenthood. They open up about their own journeys into motherhood, sharing the highs, the lows, and everything in between. From sleepless nights to finding unexpected joy in the smallest moments, they reflect on how getting outdoors has been a lifeline—not just for them, but for so many parents in the Blaze Trails community. This episode also dives into the mental health challenges of parenting, tackling big topics like loneliness, societal expectations, and the importance of having a supportive community around you. The hosts also explore matrescence—the powerful transition into motherhood and the emotional and physical changes that come with it. If you’ve ever felt like you’re still figuring out who you are as a parent, you are so not alone. Later in the episode, we dive into the inspiring story behind Blaze Trails. Host India sits down with Katy, the founding member of Blaze Trails, to talk about how this incredible community came to life. Katy shares her personal journey into parenthood and the challenges she faced along the way—challenges that ultimately led her to create Blaze Trails. She opens up about the mental and physical benefits of getting outdoors with little ones, the impact of the pandemic on parenting, and why finding a supportive community is so important. They also chat about how you can get involved, whether that means joining an existing Blaze Trails walking group or even starting your own—plus, the resources available to help make it happen! Finally, we look at the future of Blaze Trails and its mission to support diverse parenting communities. So, whether you’re listening while out on a walk with your baby, having a rare quiet moment with a cuppa, or just in need of some reassurance that you’re doing great—we’re here for you.  Check out the show notes for links to Blaze Trails resources, ways to get involved, and how to connect with other like-minded parents. And if you love this episode, don’t forget to follow, share, and tag us—we’d love to hear from you!  Find out more @blaze.trails or blazetrails.org.uk

    54 min

About

Hey there, and welcome to the Blaze Trails podcast! We’re so excited you’re here. Blaze Trails is the UK’s parent and baby walking community — and honestly, it’s all about getting outdoors, making memories, and feeling a little more like yourself again (with your baby in tow, of course!). We absolutely love helping parents feel confident outside — whether that’s by joining one of our 80+ local walking groups or hanging out with us online. Nature does wonders for us all, but let’s be real — getting out the front door with a baby isn’t always easy. That’s why we’ve created this podcast: to be a friendly voice in your ear while you walk, and a reminder that you’re not doing this alone. Our goal is simple: we want to nurture a sense of community, spark some inspiration, and help you feel more connected — to nature, to other parents, and to yourself. Think of this podcast as your walking buddy: here to lift you up, share stories, and keep you company on those baby-led adventures. Each episode, you’ll hear from your hosts — India, Iona, and Rehna — three Blaze Trails parents who know just how powerful (and sometimes messy!) getting outside with little ones can be. We’ll be diving into everything from practical tips for getting out there, to mental health, to how to find your village. Plus, we’ll bring you inspiring chats with guest experts and real stories from Blaze Trails parents across the country.