The Toddle About Show

In this live episode of Tod Talks, recorded at Toddle About Live, host Bill Clapson chats with Katia Grobecker, child health expert and founder of Brave Beginnings. After noticing a massive gap in resources for primary school children, Katia created a unique, drawing-focused feelings journal designed to help children name, understand, and regulate their biggest emotions.Katia breaks down how the journal creates a beautiful parent-child connection, how it supports neurodiverse children, and shares a sweet, real-life story of how it helped her own daughter build healthy coping mechanisms. Plus, stay tuned to the end to hear how powerful local business networking helped Katia launch her brand!Timestamps:00:00 - Intro: Live from Toddle About Live with Katia00:32 - The Inspiration: Moving from child mental health to business founder00:54 - Emotional Literacy: The ultimate survival skill for kids01:25 - Inside the Journal: How an 8-year-old uses it02:08 - Why drawing is easier than writing for big feelings02:36 - Supporting neurodiverse children & big emotional regulation03:13 - Real Results: How Katia's daughter built her own coping skills04:22 - The Power of NetworkingConnect with Brave Beginnings:Find them on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bravebeginningsuk or check out the website at https://brave-beginnings.squarespace.comAbout Toddle About:Tod Talks is powered by Toddle About, the UK’s ultimate resource for parents of 0-5 year olds and the businesses that support them.Subscribe to the Magazine or feature your business: https://toddleabout.co.ukWant to be a guest or sponsor the show? Email us at: [email protected]

Subscribe to the free magazine:⁠⁠https://toddleabout.co.uk/magazine/north-hampshire-west-berks/In this episode of Tod Talks, Bill Clapson chats with Emily Guiver from Everything Birth Baby Sleep, a specialist supporting families through pregnancy, birth, newborn care, feeding, sleep and postnatal recovery.Emily's work is all about helping parents feel confident during one of the biggest transitions of their lives. From antenatal education and hypnobirthing to overnight newborn care, feeding support and baby sleep guidance, she provides practical help, reassurance and evidence-based advice for growing families.One of Emily's key messages is that there are no silly questions when it comes to parenting. Many new parents worry they're doing something wrong when their baby isn't sleeping through the night or doesn't fit into a routine. Emily explains why so much of what parents experience is actually biologically normal and why trusting your instincts can be one of the most valuable parenting tools.In this conversation, Emily shares what it's like working as a newborn care specialist, supporting families overnight, and helping exhausted parents get the rest and confidence they need to enjoy those precious early months.Whether you're expecting your first baby, navigating life with a newborn, or looking for reassurance that you're doing a better job than you think, this episode is packed with warmth, practical advice and encouragement.Find out more aboout Everything Birth Baby Sleep at https://www.everythingbirthbabysleep.co.uk#TodTalks #ToddleAbout #EverythingBirthBabySleep #NewbornCare #BabySleep #ParentingSupport #NewParents #Hypnobirthing #PregnancySupport #PostnatalCare

Subscribe to the free magazine:⁠⁠https://toddleabout.co.uk/magazine/north-hampshire-west-berks/In this episode of Tod Talks, Bill Clapson chats with Clemmie, co-founder of The Turning Tot, an innovative parenting product designed to make nappy changes safer, easier and far less stressful.Like many parents, Clemmie found herself battling a wriggly toddler who would roll over and crawl away during every nappy change. Frustrated by the lack of solutions on the market and preparing for the arrival of her second child, she decided to create her own.What began as a personal project quickly turned into a business after other parents shared the same struggle. Working alongside her mum, Clemmie developed The Turning Tot Changing Mat, a unique design featuring a flexible bamboo support system that helps prevent babies and toddlers from turning over during nappy changes.In this conversation, Clemmie shares the story behind the product, the challenges of bringing a new invention to market, and how a simple parenting frustration became a growing business helping families across the UK.If you've ever wrestled with a toddler during a nappy change, this episode is for you.Topics covered include:Parenting hacks and problem-solvingStarting a business from a personal needProduct development and innovationLife as a mum entrepreneurPractical solutions for parents of babies and toddlersBuilding a family-run businessFind out more about The Turning Tot and their innovative changing mat at https://theturningtot.com#TodTalks #ToddleAbout #TheTurningTot #ParentingHack #BabyChangingMat #ToddlerLife #ParentingTips #Mumpreneur #SmallBusinessUK #BabyProducts

Subscribe to the free magazine:⁠⁠https://toddleabout.co.uk/magazine/north-hampshire-west-berks/In this episode of Tod Talks, Bill Clapson chats with Anna, founder of Raph & Rose, a handmade children's clothing brand creating bright, colourful and comfortable clothing for babies and children.Based in Wallingford, Oxfordshire, Anna shares how a hobby making clothes for friends and family evolved into a successful business. Inspired by the birth of her daughter and frustrated by the lack of fun, vibrant children's clothing available on the high street, she decided to create her own designs and build a brand that celebrates colour, creativity and individuality.Anna discusses teaching herself to sew, launching products on Etsy, the unexpected boost her business received during the pandemic, and the realities of balancing entrepreneurship with family life.The conversation also explores the importance of supporting local businesses, sustainable production, and why every Raph & Rose garment is designed, printed and handmade in the UK using 100% organic cotton.Whether you're a parent looking for unique children's clothing or a small business owner seeking inspiration, this episode offers a fascinating insight into building a purpose-driven brand from the ground up.Find out more about Raph & Rose:https://www.raphandrose.comFollow Tod Talks for more conversations with the brilliant businesses helping families thrive.#TodTalks #ToddleAbout #RaphAndRose #ChildrensClothing #OrganicCotton #ShopSmallUK #Mumpreneur #SmallBusinessUK #HandmadeInBritain #FamilyBusiness

Subscribe to the free magazine:⁠⁠https://toddleabout.co.uk/magazine/north-hampshire-west-berks/This special episode of Todd Talks was recorded live at Toddle About Live, where Bill sat down with exhibitors, experts, and local businesses supporting families across the region.In this short Toddle About Live special, Bill catches up with Melanie Hastings, a Norland-qualified nanny and certified sleep consultant to discuss her holistic approach to helping families improve sleep.Melanie explains why every child is different, why sleep isn't a one-size-fits-all solution, and how factors you might never consider including pets, daily routines, and family dynamics can have a huge impact on a child's sleep patterns.Bill and Melanie discuss:• Why successful sleep support starts with understanding the whole family• How daytime sleep affects nighttime sleep• Common causes of disrupted sleep in babies and toddlers• Supporting twins with different sleep needs• Early morning wake-ups as the mornings get lighter• The difference between virtual and in-home sleep supportDrawing on her experience as a Norland-qualified nanny and sleep specialist, Melanie shares practical insights into helping families move from simply surviving sleepless nights to thriving with routines that work for everyone.This episode is part of a special Toddle About Live series, showcasing the businesses, experts, and services helping local families thrive. Look for the next episode coming soon.Find out more about Melanie's work at https://site.melaniehastings.sleepnanny.co.uk

In Part 2 of Bill Clapson’s conversation with business growth coach DS Business Growth founder Dan Sagar, the focus shifts to one of the biggest challenges facing modern businesses: standing out in a crowded marketplace.Dan shares practical strategies that small businesses, local service providers, and family-focused brands can use to differentiate themselves from competitors, build trust faster, and improve their visibility in AI-powered search tools like ChatGPT and Google AI.Topics covered in this episode include:How to analyse your competitors properlyWhy reviews and reputation matter more than everUsing experience and credibility to build trustCreating guarantees and promises that attract customersWhy pricing transparency helps businesses growHow knowledge-base content improves SEO and AI visibilityThe future of Google search and AI recommendationsCommon marketing mistakes that reduce trust onlineHow local businesses can improve their AI trust signalsDan also explains how businesses can start preparing now for the shift towards AI-driven search and discovery, including tools and strategies that can help businesses get recommended more often online.If you run a local business, children’s activity company, franchise, or service-based business, this episode is packed with actionable advice you can start using immediately.Find out more about Dan and his coaching programmes at DS Business GrowthToddle About magazine is free to subscribe directly to your door - ⁠http://toddle.fun/subscribe

In this episode of Tod Talks, Bill sits down with Tracey Taylor, co-owner of Ride On Time, a unique children’s activity business bringing ride-on toy parties, play sessions, and early years road safety education to families across Oxfordshire and beyond.Tracey shares how a simple idea inspired by her own children grew into a thriving business with over 100 ride-on toys, unforgettable party experiences, and expanding franchise opportunities across the UK.But Ride On Time is more than just fun. Tracey reveals the powerful mission behind their “Safe Little Steps” programme, helping young children learn vital road safety skills through play. With UK road accident statistics highlighting the importance of early education, this work is making a real difference to families and communities.In this episode, you’ll discover:• How Ride On Time creates stress-free, high-energy kids’ parties• Why play-based learning is key to early years development• The importance of teaching road safety from a young age• How nurseries and schools can access the Safe Little Steps programme• Opportunities to join the Ride On Time franchiseWhether you’re a parent, nursery, or local business, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and practical ideas.Find out more: https://rideontimehire.com/If you are interested in learning more about franchise opportunities with Ride on Time then get in touch with Tracey at 07789 887 636, or via email at [email protected] About magazine is free to subscribe directly to your door - http://toddle.fun/subscribe

Spring has arrived and with it, a brand-new issue of Toddle About!In this quarterly update, Bill and Emily Clapson are back to chat through everything happening in the world of Toddle About—from live events and exciting new features to the must-read content inside the latest magazine.Click here to subscribe to Toddle About Find out more about Toddle About Baby Show, Milton Keynes, click here.Find out more about Toddle About LIVE! Suffolk click here.

Toddle About magazine is free to subscribe directly to your door - http://toddle.fun/subscribeDucks2Water is a swim school built around confidence, enjoyment, and progress, helping children learn to swim in a calm, supportive environment parents trust.Ducks2Water offers child-first swimming lessons for babies, toddlers, and children, from early Ducklings classes through to Swim England Stages 1–7. Lessons are delivered across Buckinghamshire, with each programme designed to support steady progress at a pace that feels right for every child.Our approach combines recognised Swim England progression with engaging, confidence-led teaching. Children are encouraged, supported, and taught with care, helping them enjoy the water while building skills that parents can trust will last.To find out more about Ducks 2 Water head to https://www.ducks2water.com

Toddle About magazine is free to subscribe directly to your door - http://toddle.fun/subscribeIn this special episode of Toddle About Bill is joined by business growth expert Dan Sagar. Dan gives his 3 top actionable steps that will help transform your business. If you are a small business owner this episode is a must listen (or watch). If you would like to connect with Dan head to https://dsbusinessgrowth.co.uk

Subscribe to the free magazine:⁠⁠https://toddleabout.co.uk/magazine/north-hampshire-west-berks/In this episode of Tod Talks, Bill sits down with Richard and Chloe Pearce from Richard Pearce Wealth Management, a family-run financial planning business focused on helping people design the retirement they actually want.Richard spent 17 years working in financial services before starting his own firm so he could focus on what he’s most passionate about: pensions and helping people plan their future with confidence. Chloe later joined the business to run operations and business development, turning it into a true family partnership.But their story took an unexpected turn when their son Archie was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at just eight years old. The experience reshaped their priorities, strengthened their family values, and inspired them to give back to the community that supported them.If you would like to find out more about Richard Pearce Wealth Management head to https://richardpearcewealthmanagement.co.ukIf you would like to support Archie with his fundraising efforts head to https://www.justgiving.com/page/archie-pearce-t1d

Subscribe to the free magazine:⁠⁠https://toddleabout.co.uk/magazine/north-hampshire-west-berks/Melanie, is a Norland-trained Nanny and Certified Sleep Consultant with 18 years of experience supporting families worldwide. She is also a mum who understands that every family deserves peaceful nights and well-rested days.Whether your first baby or your last, Melanie has been supporting babies, toddlers, and children, both in person and virtually, with the same gentle, responsive approach that has made Norland Nannies the gold standard in childcare.Now, Melanie is bringing all that experience directly to your home nursery or through virtual consultations, providing expert, bespoke guidance that helps your child learn the skills for lifelong, healthy sleep.Find out more about Melanie's work at https://site.melaniehastings.sleepnanny.co.uk

Subscribe to the free magazine:⁠⁠https://toddleabout.co.uk/magazine/north-hampshire-west-berks/In this episode of Tod Talks, Bill Clapson speaks with Luke Roberts, architectural designer and founder of House Made Ready. This is a smart platform helping families understand their home’s true value and potential. Whether you are outgrowing your two bed house, considering an extension, or weighing a move, Luke explains how to assess your property’s worth beyond estate agent estimates. He covers how data on schools, transport, EPC ratings, permitted development rights, and local market ceilings can guide your decisions. He shares how his free scorecard (use code SSR100) gives families clarity and how his architectural reports can help you plan smart, cost effective upgrades. Perfect for parents navigating space, budget, and long term family needs. Plus, Luke reveals why he built this tool and how being a school run dad shaped his mission.Learn more at https://housemadeready.co.uk/

Subscribe to the free magazine:⁠⁠https://toddleabout.co.uk/magazine/north-hampshire-west-berks/In this episode of Tod Talks, Bill is joined by Larri, the doula behind LarenaDoula, to unpack what a doula really does and why having the right support can make such a difference during pregnancy, birth, and beyond.Larri explains how doulas support pregnant parents emotionally and practically, help them feel informed without overwhelm, and act as a calm, steady presence within a maternity system that can sometimes feel impersonal or confusing. Rather than promising a “perfect” birth, Larri focuses on realistic preparation, honest conversations, and supporting families in a way that feels right for them.They also talk about why so many parents reach this huge life transition without close family nearby, and how consistent, impartial support can be especially valuable when you’re building a life away from your original support network.This episode is ideal for anyone who is pregnant, supporting a pregnant partner, or simply curious about what doulas do and how they can support families before, during, and after birth.Find out more about Larri and her work at https://www.larenadoula.co.uk

Welcome to Season 2 of Tod Talks from Toddle About. To kick off this brand new season Bill is once again joined by Emily his partner in life and work to chat through some of the fantastic content featured in this quarter’s winter issue of Toddle About. From exclusive discounts to inspiration for days out this issue has got it all. There is even a chance to win some seriously awesome prizes. Bill and Emily chat World Book Day, Mother’s Day inspiration and offer some amazing ways you can save money on those kids clubs and activities, you won’t want to miss out. Head to https://toddleabout.co.uk to find all the discounts, offers and events discussed and also to get your free issue of Toddle About!

Welcome to a special end-of-year episode of Tod Talks.This 2025 highlights edition looks back at some of the standout moments from across the year - the conversations that made us laugh, the stories that surprised us, and the local businesses doing brilliant work to support families with young children.You’ll hear clips from a wide range of episodes, featuring childcare providers, community organisations, creative small businesses and family-focused events, along with a few moments that went delightfully off-script.Thank you for listening to Tod Talks throughout 2025. If the podcast has become part of your routine, there’s plenty more to come in 2026, with more great guests and conversations lined up.Find out more about some of amazing guests from 2025 at the links below:https://www.htmirrors.co.ukhttps://thenannynetwork.co.ukhttps://site.michellevint.sleepnanny.co.ukhttps://partner.uw.co.uk/partner/nick-and-michelle-vint-n45188https://www.rugbytots.co.ukhttps://tropicskincare.com/pages/alexnichollshttps://www.happyheartsfirstaid.comhttps://www.spicebagco.co.ukhttps://www.hampshirehospitalscharity.orghttps://www.bekonscot.co.ukhttps://toddleabout.co.uk/magazine/north-hampshire-west-berks/

In this episode of Tod Talks, Bill chats with Sammy, founder of Happy Hearts First Aid and co-creator of the Ouch Pouch. A former nurse and teacher, Sammy shares how her practical, empowering first aid training helps parents feel confident and calm in emergencies. She discusses how Happy Hearts got started, what makes her baby and child first aid sessions unique, and how the Ouch Pouch was created by and for mums.They explore common myths about burns, choking, and bee stings, and explain what really works in a crisis. Sammy also reveals how her workshops are delivered in homes, online, and through corporate sessions—and how PTAs and local mums can get involved in sewing and selling the Ouch Pouch. Plus, a preview of her appearance at Toddle About Live in South Bucks.Learn more or book a course at https://www.happyheartsfirstaid.comLearn more about Ouch Pouch at https://www.ouch-pouch.co.ukSubscribe to the free magazine:⁠https://toddleabout.co.uk/magazine/north-hampshire-west-berks/

In this special episode of Tod Talks, Emily Clapson takes over hosting duties to interview her husband Bill Clapson, franchisee of Toddle About in North Hampshire, West Berkshire, Oxfordshire, and South Bucks.They break down how Toddle About has grown from a single magazine to a regional network supporting thousands of families with children aged 0–5. From free print subscriptions to live events and business networking, this episode explores the bigger picture behind the pages.They discuss:What goes into running multiple regional magazinesWhy Toddle About is more than just printHow feedback from parents shapes the contentThe launch of Toddle About Live and what makes it differentPlans for growth in 2026 and beyondAlso featuring a guest segment from Bill and Emily’s daughters, Aurora and Florence, who quiz their dad about the magazine and Toddle About Live.📬 Subscribe to the free magazine:https://toddleabout.co.uk/magazine/north-hampshire-west-berks/

In this episode of Tod Talks, Bill sits down with Michelle Vint – a certified Sleep Nanny and passionate parenting support professional – to explore how sleep consulting really works, why “cry it out” is outdated, and how even small changes can make a huge difference to your child’s sleep routine.Whether you’re navigating nap chaos or dealing with a toddler who just won’t stay in their bed, this episode is packed with practical advice, myth‑busting insights and helpful tips for parents who are tired of being tired. Topics include when to seek help from a sleep consultant, why babies wake so often (and what you can do about it), modern and gentle approaches to sleep training, how to stop bedtime from becoming a battle, and why your second child may not sleep like your first. Michelle also shares free and low‑cost support options available to families.Learn more or download Michelle’s free Sleep Survival Guide here:https://site.michellevint.sleepnanny.co.ukFind out more about Toddle About Magazine at https://toddleabout.co.uk/magazine/north-hampshire-west-berks/

In this episode of Tod Talks, Bill chats with Sophie, Marketing Manager at Bekonscot Model Village and Railway in Beaconsfield — the world’s oldest original model village!Sophie shares the fascinating story behind Bekonscot’s 95-year legacy, how it continues to delight families and school trips, and the incredible charitable work it does through the Roland Ingham Foundation, donating over £21 million to good causes.Bill also shares his own family visit — exploring the model railways, pirate play park, puppet trail, and the magical “High Shrunken Junction” where kids become giants! Together, they discuss what makes Bekonscot such a calm, accessible, and educational space for families, and what’s coming up this autumn and Christmas season.Plan your visit and get 10% off when you book 48 hours in advance at https://www.bekonscot.co.ukFind our more about Toddle About at https://toddleabout.co.uk/magazine/north-hampshire-west-berksThis podcast was recorded and produced by Creative Content Studio. Find out more at https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk

In this episode of Tod Talks, Bill sits down with Michelle - a mum, entrepreneur, and long‑time Utility Warehouse partner. Michelle talks about her journey from becoming a Utility Warehouse customer to running it as part of her family’s income, gaining priceless flexibility and peace of mind along the way.Michelle explains how UW bundles essential services like energy, broadband, mobile, and insurance into one simple bill to save families both time and money. She also dives into UW’s partner and connector programmes, how they generate upfront and residual income, and the support and community she’s found.If you’re curious about how to reclaim your time, create extra income, or simply get more organised with household bills, this episode is packed with insight—and you can find Michelle’s UW partner page here: Nick & Michelle Vint UW Partner

In this flavour-packed episode of Tod Talks, Bill chats with Georgie and Andy, the duo behind Spice Bag Co, a Bristol-based food truck serving up Ireland’s most addictive takeaway secret: the spice bag.After 12 years working on superyachts as a captain and a chef, Georgie and Andy traded the sea for the street and launched a bold new food venture. They break down what a spice bag actually is (crispy chicken, chips, stir-fried veg, and sauces—served in a bag!), how the idea came from a crewmate, and how they’ve built a cult following through social media, events, and pure hustle.They share stories of going viral, cooking from home with freezers in the attic, and their big dreams for the future—from food trucks to festivals, delivery apps to supermarkets. Plus, hear why they're perfect for Toddle About Live and why your kids will love their milder options just as much as the grown-ups love the heat.If you love startup stories, street food, or spice... this one's for you.You can find out more about Spice Bag Co. at https://linktr.ee/spicebagcoFind our more about Toddle About at https://toddleabout.co.uk/magazine/north-hampshire-west-berksThis podcast was recorded and produced by Creative Content Studio. Find out more at https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk

In this episode of Tod Talks, Bill is joined by Natalie, founder of HT Mirrors—a brilliant small business creating bold, safe, and beautiful acrylic mirrors for kids’ bedrooms, nurseries, and sensory spaces.Natalie shares how a DIY project for her son’s room sparked the idea, and how her background in psychology and neurodiversity informed the mission behind HT Mirrors. Each piece is hand-painted, built for durability, and made with child safety in mind.They talk about mirror benefits for children’s emotional and cognitive development, custom designs (including glow-in-the-dark options!), and how Natalie balances parenthood, psychology, and entrepreneurship. If you’re a parent, nursery owner, or just love smart design with heart, this one’s for you.You can find out more about HT Mirrors at https://www.htmirrors.co.uk/You can follow HT Mirrors on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/htmirrorsFind our more about Toddle About at https://toddleabout.co.uk/magazine/north-hampshire-west-berksThis podcast was recorded and produced by Creative Content Studio. Find out more at https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk

Alex Nicholls joins Bill on the latest episode of Tod Talks to chat about all things Tropic. From how the business was founded to what exactly can be found in big brand beauty products, Alex lifts the lid and shares some amazing facts. We also find out which Tropic products could be right for your baby and you as a new Mum.  You can find out more about Tropic at https://tropicskincare.com/pages/alexnicholls& you can follow Alex at https://www.instagram.com/tropicwithalexn/Find our more about Toddle About at https://toddleabout.co.uk/magazine/north-hampshire-west-berksThis podcast was recorded and produced by Creative Content Studio. Find out more at https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk

Tom Brown has played for some of the biggest names in rugby - earning a cap for Wales, competing for Cardiff Blues, Dragons RFC, and Worcester Warriors, and racking up over 30 appearances in top-flight rugby. Now, as Director of Rugbytots South Bucks, Tom brings that same passion to the pitch - just with smaller players!In this episode, Tom shares his journey from the elite level to early years coaching, what Rugbytots offers families, and how sport can build confidence, resilience and joy in little ones aged 2–7. If you're a parent or business supporting young families, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical insight.You can find out more about Rugbytots at https://www.rugbytots.co.uk/Class/FindFind our more about Toddle About at https://toddleabout.co.uk/magazine/north-hampshire-west-berksThis podcast was recorded and produced by Creative Content Studio. Find out more at https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk

In this episode of Tod Talks, Bill is joined by Lisa and Helen from Hampshire Hospitals Charity to explore how the charity makes a real difference to families across North Hants and West Berkshire. From colour runs and community events to building sensory rooms and funding children’s wards, discover how this incredible team works to create warmer, more supportive hospital experiences for little ones—and how your business or family can get involved.Book your place on the Colour run at https://www.hampshirehospitalscharity.org/events/5km-colour-run-2025Find out more about the amazing work of the Hampshire Hopsitals Charity at https://www.hampshirehospitalscharity.orgContact Hampshire Hopsitals Charity at [email protected] our more about Toddle About at https://toddleabout.co.uk/magazine/north-hampshire-west-berksThis podcast was recorded and produced by Creative Content Studio. Find out more at https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk

In this debut episode of Tod Talks, Bill Clapson sits down with Chloe, founder of The Nanny Network, to explore how she's connecting families with nannies in a personal, caring, and community-driven way. From understanding the process of hiring a nanny to building a support network for childcare professionals, Chloe shares her inspiring journey from nanny to agency owner—and how Toddle About has helped her thrive. Perfect for parents curious about childcare options and businesses aiming to grow.You can find out more about The Nanny Network at https://thenannynetwork.co.ukYou can find out more about Toddle About at https://toddleabout.co.ukYou can book tickets to Toddle About live hereIf you'd like to get in touch with Bill drop him a line at [email protected] you loved the show please leave us a 5 star review, it really helps and would be so appreciated.This podcast is recorded at and edited by https://www.creativecontentstudio.co.uk