The Real Life. Real Kitchen. Podcast

Zoe F. Willis
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  • Parenting

Food. Family. Community. 
In a world that tells mothers to hustle harder, outsource home life, and silence their instincts, The Real Life. Real Kitchen Podcast offers a different rhythm. Hosted by Zoë F. Willis, mother-of-many & Mum Mentor, this podcast is a gentle but honest invitation to rethink what matters most. Through soulful musings & conversations with those who feed, heal, and raise our communities, from farmers and butchers to herbalists and healers, wise thinkers and mothers in the thick of it, we’ll explore how women can reclaim their homes, health, and children’s future. All this one small, trusting step at a time. Whether we’re talking about cooking nourishing food on a budget, the quiet courage of stay-at-home mums, the reality of food waste, or why it’s okay to question what modern motherhood has become…each episode gives you something real to hold onto. If you’re a mother who’s curious, tired of the noise, and longing for more connection, tradition, and truth… well, you’re not alone. Pull up a chair. There’s room at the table.

  1. May 6

    How Regenerative Farming Can Heal Our Children & Save the World || Pia Crofton

    In this in-depth interview on the Real Life. Real Kitchen. Podcast, Pia Crofton of Ireland Fresh shares her journey from working in the Irish food industry to becoming a passionate advocate for nutrient-dense, regenerative food systems. She discusses the impact of global supply chains, the importance of local and organic food, and practical ways mothers can heal their children of autoimmune conditions and chronic illness through dietary interventions. The conversation also takes in the political and societal implications of modern farming practices, Big Food and government policies on motherhood, families and the health of nations. Personal autonomy, mutual support and a crie du coeur from mothers across the Western World just might save us all… Welcome to the Real Life. Real Kitchen Podcast with your host, Zoë F. Willis, English mother-of-many, Mum Mentor, and your host at this weekly gathering of real talk, real food, and real family life. Each week I sit down with someone whose work nourishes minds, bodies, or communities. From the kitchen table to the wider world, these are the quiet voices making a loud difference. 👤 About Pia CroftonAfter 20 years in the food industry, Pia is a mother now on a mission to connect families directly with real food and its producers to make a difference to children, health and society. 🌐 Where to Find Pia CroftonWebsite: https://irelandfresh.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pia.croftonLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pia-crofton/ 🧰 Links & Resources Mentioned🥑 GAPS Diet by Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride - https://gaps.me 💌 Join The Kitchen Correspondence – my weekly newsletter with episodes, reflections & family food wisdom https://realliferealkitchen.myflodesk.com/socials ☕ Support the Show – help keep the kettle on and the podcast going https://the-real-life-real-kitchen.captivate.fm/support ❤️ Share the LoveIf this episode made you nod, laugh, or breathe a little deeper then please: Follow or subscribe to the showLeave a short review (it really helps!)Share this episode with a fellow mum who might be quietly asking the same questions 🌍 Where Else You Can Find MeAll the links are here ⬇️! Come say hello. 🥰 https://realliferealkitchen.myflodesk.com/socials Key TopicsImpact of global supply chains on food qualityThe role of regenerative agriculture in healthHow glyphosate and chemicals affect our bodiesThe importance of local, nutrient-dense foodPractical steps for mothers to heal their children Takeaways: The podcast emphasizes the significant role of mothers in connecting with food producers to ensure the nutritional health of their families.Pia Crofton discusses the detrimental effects of the current food supply chain, particularly the dominance of large corporations over family-run businesses.The conversation highlights the alarming rise in chronic illnesses and autoimmune conditions among children, attributed to poor diet and exposure to chemicals.Listeners are encouraged to advocate for better food policies and support local food systems to improve community health and well-being.

    1h 13m

  2. Apr 26

    Navigating Loneliness In Motherhood || Insights from Parenting Coach, Vanessa Coultas

    This episode of the Real Life. Real Kitchen podcast delves into the quiet & painful issue of loneliness experienced by mothers, particularly new mamas. Vanessa Coultas, Parenting Coach and host, Zoë F. Willis, discuss the societal changes that contribute to this loneliness, such as the shift from work to motherhood and the lack of community support. We explore the importance of social connections, the challenges faced by introverts, and the need for mothers to actively create support networks. The discussion emphasizes that loneliness is a common experience and encourages mothers to take small steps towards building connections and seeking support. Welcome to the Real Life. Real Kitchen Podcast with your host, Zoë F. Willis, English mother-of-many, Mum Mentor, and your host at this weekly gathering of real talk, real food, and real family life. Each week I sit down with someone whose work nourishes minds, bodies, or communities. From the kitchen table to the wider world, these are the quiet voices making a loud difference. 👤 About Vanessa CoultasVanessa brings over a decade of dedicated experience to the profound task of guiding individuals in reshaping their lives with a specific focus on parenting. ​Commencing with a degree in Psychology, her professional journey has evolved to encompass qualifications in Life Coaching, Solution-Based Counselling, and Neuro-Linguistic Programming and Hypnosis. Despite the broadening of her expertise, psychology - with a specific emphasis on understanding human behavior - remains her central passion, which she uses to help families in their parenting. 🌐 Where to Find Vanessa CoultasWebsite: https://www.lifementoringnz.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifementoring_Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/energisingmumsPodcast: Chaos, Courage & Coffee https://open.spotify.com/show/784MVlm8skiUcTTH6Vb8tE 🧰 Links & Resources Mentioned📝 Command the Chaos – The Mum Life Management Planner https://shorturl.at/bbzm7 💌 Join The Kitchen Correspondence – my weekly newsletter with episodes, reflections & family food wisdom https://realliferealkitchen.myflodesk.com/socials ☕ Support the Show – help keep the kettle on and the podcast going https://the-real-life-real-kitchen.captivate.fm/support ❤️ Share the LoveIf this episode made you nod, laugh, or breathe a little deeper then please: Follow or subscribe to the showLeave a short review (it really helps!)Share this episode with a fellow mum who might be quietly asking the same questions 🌍 Where Else You Can Find MeAll the links are here ⬇️! Come say hello. 🥰 https://realliferealkitchen.myflodesk.com/socials Takeaways: The podcast highlighted the pervasive issue of loneliness experienced by mothers, particularly during early motherhood.Vanessa emphasised the importance of creating a supportive community to combat loneliness effectively.Listeners were encouraged to seek connections with other mothers through groups and regular social interactions.The hosts discussed the significance of recognizing loneliness as a normal experience, rather than a personal failing.Practical suggestions were offered for mothers to maintain social connections, even amidst busy schedules.The conversation underscored that small steps towards building relationships can mitigate feelings of isolation.

    32 min

  3. Apr 11

    Non-Linear Careers for Mums || Deb Smallwood on Identity, Choice & SelfPowerment

    In this episode of the Real Life Real Kitchen podcast, Zoe Willis engages in a profound conversation with Deb Smallwood, a trailblazing executive and advocate for women's empowerment. Deb shares her insights from a 46-year career, focusing on the non-linear paths women and importantly, mothers, often take in their careers, the importance of financial independence, and the common struggles of self-doubt among women in leadership roles. The discussion also touches on the differences in how men and women process experiences and the necessity of support and vulnerability in both personal and professional lives. Deb emphasizes the importance of knowing oneself, accepting one's identity beyond roles, and making conscious choices to navigate life's challenges. The episode concludes with reflections on finding joy and acceptance in difficult situations, reinforcing the message that empowerment comes from within and that we all have the power to shape our narratives. Welcome to the Real Life. Real Kitchen Podcast with your host, Zoë F. Willis, English mother-of-many, Mum Mentor, and your host at this weekly gathering of real talk, real food, and real family life. Each week I sit down with someone whose work nourishes minds, bodies, or communities. From the kitchen table to the wider world, these are the quiet voices making a loud difference. 👤 About Deb SmallwoodDeb Smallwood spent four decades rising through corporate leadership into C-suite roles—often with exhaustion, anxiety, and the need to constantly prove her worth. Her inner shift led her to research the experiences of more than fifty high-achieving women leaders and inspired her book SelfPowerment: The Inner Shift for High Achieving Women Who Want More Than Just Success and the research-informed framework that redefines success from within and invite women to shift the question from “Will they choose me?” to “Do I choose them?” 🌐 Where to Find Deb SmallwoodWebsite: www.selfpowerment.com Buy Her Book: https://amzn.to/4cBny9P Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deb.smallwood.94 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deb-smallwood/ 🧰 Links & Resources Mentioned📝 Command the Chaos – The Mum Life Management Planner https://shorturl.at/bbzm7 💌 Join The Kitchen Correspondence – my weekly newsletter with episodes, reflections & family food wisdom https://realliferealkitchen.myflodesk.com/socials ☕ Support the Show – help keep the kettle on and the podcast going https://the-real-life-real-kitchen.captivate.fm/support ❤️ Share the LoveIf this episode made you nod, laugh, or breathe a little deeper then please: Follow or subscribe to the showLeave a short review (it really helps!)Share this episode with a fellow mum who might be quietly asking the same questions 🌍 Where Else You Can Find MeAll the links are here ⬇️! Come say hello. 🥰 https://realliferealkitchen.myflodesk.com/socials Takeaways: Deb Smallwood, a renowned advocate for women's empowerment, shares invaluable insights from her extensive career.The podcast emphasizes the importance of financial independence for women to enhance their life choices.Listeners learn that self-doubt is a common struggle among successful women in leadership roles.The discussion highlights the necessity of personal accountability in managing one's emotions and life direction.Deb's upcoming book, Of Self Powerment, aims to assist women in discovering their true purpose and identity.The conversation reveals that both men and women face unique challenges in their professional journeys.

    34 min

  4. Apr 1

    Managing Ageing, Death, and Medical Ethics || Insights from Dr. Cajetan Skowronski

    In this episode of the Real Life. Real Kitchen Podcast , we explore the complexities of caring for the elderly, effective communication in medicine, and the ethical debates surrounding assisted dying. Dr. Cajetan Skowronski shares his expertise as a doctor working in geriatric medicine, stroke and palliative care, on how medical practitioners can better serve older populations and why understanding death is as vital as understanding life. Welcome to the Real Life. Real Kitchen Podcast with your host, Zoë F. Willis, English mother-of-many, Mum Mentor, and your host at this weekly gathering of real talk, real food, and real family life. Each week I sit down with someone whose work nourishes minds, bodies, or communities. From the kitchen table to the wider world, these are the quiet voices making a loud difference. 👤 About Dr. Cajetan SkowronskiHospital medicine doctor working in geriatric medicine, stroke and palliative care. Father of four. 🌐 Where to Find Dr. Cajetan SkowronskiX: https://x.com/TradSkowronski 🧰 Links & Resources Mentioned📝 Command the Chaos – The Mum Life Management Planner https://shorturl.at/bbzm7 💌 Join The Kitchen Correspondence – my weekly newsletter with episodes, reflections & family food wisdom https://realliferealkitchen.myflodesk.com/socials ☕ Support the Show – help keep the kettle on and the podcast going https://the-real-life-real-kitchen.captivate.fm/support ❤️ Share the LoveIf this episode made you nod, laugh, or breathe a little deeper then please: Follow or subscribe to the showLeave a short review (it really helps!)Share this episode with a fellow mum who might be quietly asking the same questions 🌍 Where Else You Can Find MeAll the links are here ⬇️! Come say hello. 🥰 https://realliferealkitchen.myflodesk.com/socials Takeaways: The podcast delves into the complexities of geriatric care and its implications for families.Geriatric medicine emphasizes a holistic approach focusing on the entire person and family dynamics.The discussion highlights the importance of communication between medical professionals and families in healthcare settings.Listeners are encouraged to foster multigenerational living arrangements for better familial support and care.The podcast addresses the societal debate on assisted dying and its ethical implications within medicine.It underscores the gradual process of dying and the role of palliative care in ensuring comfort.

    59 min

  5. Mar 25

    The Role of Family Meals in Health & Well-Being || A Chat with Naomi Murray, Natural Health Expert

    In this episode of the Real Life Real Kitchen podcast, host Zoe Willis speaks with natural health expert Naomi Murray of Botanica Health about her journey into herbal medicine, the importance of natural remedies, and the role of family meals in promoting health. They discuss various topics including the benefits of garlic, apple cider vinegar, and cooking from scratch, eating together as a family, as well as practical tips for parents to improve their children's health and well-being. Welcome to the Real Life. Real Kitchen Podcast with your host, Zoë F. Willis, English mother-of-many, Mum Mentor, and your host at this weekly gathering of real talk, real food, and real family life. Each week I sit down with someone whose work nourishes minds, bodies, or communities. From the kitchen table to the wider world, these are the quiet voices making a loud difference. 👤 About Naomi MurrayNatural health expert with over 30 years experience and owner of Botanica Health. 🌐 Where to Find Naomi MurrayWebsite: https://botanicahealth.co.uk/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/botanica_healthFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/botanicahealth.co.uk/?locale=en_GBOther: https://www.youtube.com/@botanicahealth26 🧰 Links & Resources Mentioned📝 Command the Chaos – The Mum Life Management Planner https://shorturl.at/bbzm7 💌 Join The Kitchen Correspondence – my weekly newsletter with episodes, reflections & family food wisdom https://realliferealkitchen.myflodesk.com/socials ☕ Support the Show – help keep the kettle on and the podcast going https://the-real-life-real-kitchen.captivate.fm/support ❤️ Share the LoveIf this episode made you nod, laugh, or breathe a little deeper then please: Follow or subscribe to the showLeave a short review (it really helps!)Share this episode with a fellow mum who might be quietly asking the same questions 🌍 Where Else You Can Find MeAll the links are here ⬇️! Come say hello. 🥰 https://realliferealkitchen.myflodesk.com/socials TakeawaysNaomi's journey into herbal medicine began with her father's love for plants.Garlic is a powerful natural remedy with antibacterial properties.Apple cider vinegar can aid digestion and has various health benefits.Cooking from scratch is essential for better health and digestion.Family meals are crucial for bonding and improving health.Children should be allowed to play outside and get dirty to build immunity.A peaceful bedtime routine is important for children's health.Elderberry syrup can help with fevers and boost immunity.Simple dietary changes can significantly impact children's behavior and health.Natural remedies can be effective alternatives to conventional medicine.

    38 min

  6. Mar 10

    Your Child’s Pain… What’s Really Going On || Dr. Ben Smith, Paediatric Physical Therapist

    In this week's episode, Dr. Ben Smith, a pediatric physiotherapist, shares his journey into pediatric physiotherapy, the importance of understanding pain in children, and practical strategies for parents to support their children's development and well-being. Welcome to the Real Life. Real Kitchen Podcast with your host, Zoë F. Willis, English mother-of-many, Mum Mentor, and your host at this weekly gathering of real talk, real food, and real family life. Each week I sit down with someone whose work nourishes minds, bodies, or communities. From the kitchen table to the wider world, these are the quiet voices making a loud difference. 🌐 Where to get Dr. Ben's Guide to Pain In ChildrenHere! https://realliferealkitchen.myflodesk.com/guidetochildspain 🧰 Links & Resources Mentioned📝 Command the Chaos – The Mum Life Management Planner https://shorturl.at/bbzm7 💌 Join The Kitchen Correspondence – my weekly newsletter with episodes, reflections & family food wisdom https://realliferealkitchen.myflodesk.com/socials ☕ Support the Show – help keep the kettle on and the podcast going https://the-real-life-real-kitchen.captivate.fm/support ❤️ Share the LoveIf this episode made you nod, laugh, or breathe a little deeper then please: Follow or subscribe to the showLeave a short review (it really helps!)Share this episode with a fellow mum who might be quietly asking the same questions 🌍 Where Else You Can Find MeAll the links are here ⬇️! Come say hello. 🥰 https://realliferealkitchen.myflodesk.com/socials Takeaways:Dr. Ben Smith's journey into pediatric physiotherapy Understanding pain in children and the brain's role Developmental milestones and birth trauma Differences between physiotherapy, osteopathy, and chiropractic care Practical developmental games for children Cultural influences on pain perception and response The impact of birth experiences on movement and health Strategies for parents to support their child's development and pain management

    49 min

  7. Mar 5

    Navigating Divorce || Insights from Coach Sarah Woodward

    In a candid conversation, Zoe Willis and Sarah Woodward dissect the often-painful realities of divorce, offering listeners insights into the emotional and logistical complexities that arise. They emphasize the significance of adopting a growth mindset, which allows individuals to find silver linings amidst their struggles. Sarah, drawing from her own experiences as a divorcee and as a coach, highlights how the journey through divorce mirrors the grieving process, marked by stages of denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and ultimately acceptance. The chat also sheds light on the rising phenomenon of grey divorce, where individuals in their later years reevaluate their marriages. Importantly, the episode underscores the impact of divorce on children, urging parents to adopt a child-centric perspective in their decisions. This episode serves not only as a guide for those currently navigating divorce but also as a preventative measure for couples seeking to fortify their relationships before reaching a breaking point. Welcome to the Real Life. Real Kitchen Podcast with your host, Zoë F. Willis, English mother-of-many, Mum Mentor, and your host at this weekly gathering of real talk, real food, and real family life. 👤 About Sarah Woodward, Divorce CoachSarah is a qualified coach and an accredited Breakup and Divorce Coach, working with clients at every stage of the divorce process - whether they’re questioning their relationship, in the middle of a breakup and struggling to cope, or already out the other side but unsure how to move forward with their life. With a background in senior corporate roles in finance and now years of experience coaching clients one-to-one, she offers practical tools and straightforward support to help people manage overwhelm, reduce stress, and start to rebuild their confidence, so that they can thrive after their divorce. She works closely with family lawyers and complements that process by helping her clients stay focused, make clearer decisions, and feel more in control of their next steps. She’s here to help you fast track through the process and make it the best thing that’s happened to you… even if that feels impossible right now. 🌐 Where to Find Sarah WoodwardWebsite: https://sarah-woodward.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahwoodward_divorcecoach Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarahwoodwarddivorcecoach LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahwoodward2/ 🧰 Links & Resources Mentioned📝 Command the Chaos – The Mum Life Management Planner https://shorturl.at/bbzm7 💌 Join The Kitchen Correspondence – my weekly newsletter with episodes, reflections & family food wisdom https://realliferealkitchen.myflodesk.com/socials ☕ Support the Show – help keep the kettle on and the podcast going https://the-real-life-real-kitchen.captivate.fm/support ❤️ Share the LoveIf this episode made you nod, laugh, or breathe a little deeper then please: Follow or subscribe to the showLeave a short review (it really helps!)Share this episode with a fellow mum who might be quietly asking the same questions 🌍 Where Else You Can Find ZoëAll the links are here ⬇️! Come say hello. 🥰 https://realliferealkitchen.myflodesk.com/socials Takeaways: Divorce is a complex emotional and practical challenge, often requiring a growth mindset to navigate effectively.The communication between partners is paramount; open discussions can prevent misunderstandings and emotional disconnection.The trend of grey divorce illustrates the shifting dynamics of marriage, especially among those over 50 seeking independence.Divorce affects children significantly; thus, maintaining a collaborative approach between parents is essential for their emotional well-being.Therapy focuses on past issues while coaching emphasizes future solutions, highlighting the different roles each plays in personal development.Recognizing contributions beyond financial roles in a marriage is crucial for understanding and achieving equitable resolutions during divorce proceedings.

    51 min

  8. Feb 24

    How Moms Can Build a Healthy Money Mindset in Their Teens || A Chat with Nicole Mitchell, Financial Literacy Coach

    In this episode of the Real Life Real Kitchen podcast, Zoe Willis speaks with financial literacy coach Nicole Mitchell about the intersection of motherhood and money. Nicole shares her personal journey from being in debt to becoming a financial coach, emphasizing the importance of mindset over math in managing finances. They discuss the challenges of financial education, the impact of social media on spending habits, and the significance of creating a balanced spending plan. Nicole also highlights the need for financial literacy among teenagers and college students, offering insights into how parents can foster a positive money mindset in their children. Welcome to the Real Life. Real Kitchen Podcast with your host, Zoë F. Willis, English mother-of-many, Mum Mentor, and your host at this weekly gathering of real talk, real food, and real family life. 👤 About Nicole MitchellNicole is a financial literacy coach who teaches all the real life money skills we should have learned in school. 🌐 Where to Find Nicole MitchellInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/create.wealthy.futures Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/wealthypersonalfinancegirls 🧰 Links & Resources Mentioned📝 Command the Chaos – The Mum Life Management Planner https://shorturl.at/bbzm7 💌 Join The Kitchen Correspondence – my weekly newsletter with episodes, reflections & family food wisdom https://realliferealkitchen.myflodesk.com/socials ☕ Support the Show – help keep the kettle on and the podcast going https://the-real-life-real-kitchen.captivate.fm/support ❤️ Share the LoveIf this episode made you nod, laugh, or breathe a little deeper then please: Follow or subscribe to the showLeave a short review (it really helps!)Share this episode with a fellow mum who might be quietly asking the same questions 🌍 Where Else You Can Find MeAll the links are here ⬇️! Come say hello. 🥰 https://realliferealkitchen.myflodesk.com/socials TakeawaysMindset is crucial in managing finances, often more than the math itself. Frugality and conscious spending can lead to financial freedom. Social media can create unrealistic financial expectations and comparisons. Creating a spending plan allows for both saving and enjoyment of money. Financial education is lacking in schools, leading to cycles of poor money management. Different coaching styles can appeal to various demographics in financial literacy. Teaching teens about money should be relatable to their experiences. Empowering young adults with financial knowledge can lead to better decision-making. Creativity in finding ways to earn money is essential for financial independence. Parents should reflect on their own money beliefs to positively influence their children.

    42 min
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Food. Family. Community. 
In a world that tells mothers to hustle harder, outsource home life, and silence their instincts, The Real Life. Real Kitchen Podcast offers a different rhythm. Hosted by Zoë F. Willis, mother-of-many & Mum Mentor, this podcast is a gentle but honest invitation to rethink what matters most. Through soulful musings & conversations with those who feed, heal, and raise our communities, from farmers and butchers to herbalists and healers, wise thinkers and mothers in the thick of it, we’ll explore how women can reclaim their homes, health, and children’s future. All this one small, trusting step at a time. Whether we’re talking about cooking nourishing food on a budget, the quiet courage of stay-at-home mums, the reality of food waste, or why it’s okay to question what modern motherhood has become…each episode gives you something real to hold onto. If you’re a mother who’s curious, tired of the noise, and longing for more connection, tradition, and truth… well, you’re not alone. Pull up a chair. There’s room at the table.

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