Twins Mummy NI Podcast

For a long time, I quietly believed I was getting motherhood wrong. Raising my twins never looked the way I thought it would. It felt more structured… more intense… more about managing than simply being present. And with that came guilt. Guilt about not giving enough one-on-one time. Guilt about the systems I had to put in place. Guilt about whether my children were missing out. But over time, something shifted. I began to understand that I wasn’t parenting one child — I was raising more than one little person at the exact same time. And that changes everything. In this episode, I discuss: The internal guilt many mums of multiples experience The comparison between singleton and multiples motherhood The “systems” we build to keep our children safe and cared for The emotional weight of being needed in two places at once This is a gentle, honest conversation for any mum who has ever felt like it looks different for her. Because it does. And that doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong. It means you’re doing something that requires more.

Welcome to the second episode of Multiples Mums Group Chat! In this episode, we’re focusing on all things sleep. When you’re parenting multiples, this topic can feel challenging, so we brought in expert help. We’re joined by sleep consultant Rosy Whitwell, who answers your questions and shares practical advice and reassuring guidance to help make sleep feel more manageable for you and your little ones. Whether you’re navigating sleepless nights, or trying to establish routines, this episode is packed with helpful insights and realistic tips to support your family’s sleep journey.

Welcome to the very first episode of Multiples Mums Group Chat!  In our debut episode, we’re discussing all things potty training. When you’re parenting multiples, this stage can feel challenging, so we brought in expert help. We’re joined by Louenna Hood, a renowned nanny and parenting expert, who answers the questions you sent in and shares practical advice, tips, and reassurance to help make potty training a little more manageable! Whether you're just starting to think about potty training, currently in the thick of it, or planning ahead for your multiples, this episode is full of helpful insights and practical tips.

What does it really feel like to become a mum of multiples? In this heartfelt episode, Ellen and I reflect on our journeys of multiples motherhood. As two mums raising eight children between us, we share an honest and gentle conversation about: • The unexpected strength we discovered • The emotional weight of pregnancy and birth • NICU experiences • The beauty and complexity of raising multiples It’s an intimate glimpse into a life rarely seen, a conversation told with honesty and heart as we raise our multiples families right here in Northern Ireland. Whether you’re in the newborn haze, navigating toddlers, or simply reflecting on your own motherhood — we hope this conversation brings comfort and solidarity. Please note: This episode contains discussion of pregnancy, birth and NICU experiences which may be sensitive for some listeners

In this episode, Carla reflects on her experience of twin and singleton pregnancies. It’s an honest, emotional conversation about the journey to motherhood and learning that asking for help is a strength, not a failure. Whether you’re navigating pregnancy, parenting, or simply finding your voice, this episode is for you.

This week, I’m talking about what it’s really like having a baby after having twins — the surprises, the challenges, the sweet moments I finally get to slow down for, and how the twins are handling their new “big sibling” era. If you’ve been through it, are thinking about it, or just love a good parenting story, this one’s for you. 

The magic, the mess, the memories — all wrapped up together and placed under the Christmas tree.  Christmas isn’t calm in our house—there are nappies under the tree and twins testing ornaments for durability. But between the chaos, there’s laughter and joy. Join us as mums of multiples from around the world as we share tips, laughter and funny stories from the frontlines of festive family life.   Deck the Halls B by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100368 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

With the arrival of baby Lara our family has grown, and so has the love!   In this emotional episode, Carla shares her personal experience of adjusting to life as a mother of three, including twin toddlers and a newborn baby. With candid reflections on her journey so far, Carla invites listeners to join her in navigating the beautiful chaos of family life.

As you listen to this week’s podcast episode, I am currently nearing the end of a long journey that will no doubt change our lives forever- in a good way!   To mark the 40th episode, I have a little announcement and I hope to follow up with some nice news soon!  Never give up hope! 

Julianne shares her journey as a mother of triplets and a newborn, discussing her fertility journey, the challenges of breastfeeding, and the joys and of raising a large family in Southern California. Julianne offers valuable advice for expecting parents of multiples and reflects on the beauty and chaos of family life. For all that and more, why not grab yourself a little cup of tea and join Julianne and I as we discuss our experience of multiples motherhood from across the Atlantic Ocean.

In this week’s episode, Dr. Nancy Segal, a psychology professor based in California and twin studies expert, shares her personal journey as a fraternal twin and her extensive research in twin studies. Nancy is a professor of psychology and founder and director of the Twin Studies Centre at California State University, in Fullerton, USA. She discusses the unique dynamics of twin relationships and the impact of being a twin on individual identity. Dr. Segal also addresses common myths about twins and highlights the importance of individuality in twin upbringing.  

Karen Rodger, a mother of three sets of twins, shares her experiences on the joys and challenges of twin motherhood. From managing a busy household to fostering individuality among her children, Karen emphasizes the importance of communication, self-care, and embracing the chaos of family life. She reflects on the special bond between twins, the significance of family gatherings, and the need for open conversations about difficult topics. Karen's journey highlights the privilege of motherhood and the joy of raising a large family.

“I see these amazing fragile little babies and I immediately want to do everything I can to take care of them, love them and to make sure they are safe,” A Twin Dad’s Story Author and Podcaster Joe Rawlinson from Austin Texas shares his experience as a father of twins. He discusses the challenges of mental health, the journey of expecting twins, and the unique bond his daughters share. In his own words, he offers practical advice on travelling with young children and coping with feelings of loneliness that many parents of multiples experience.  

This week’s guest is mum of three, best-selling author and psychotherapist Anna Mathur. In this podcast episode, Anna and Carla explore the curveballs of motherhood, maternal mental health, and the importance of creating a community. We discuss the challenges of early motherhood, the impact of intrusive thoughts, and the feelings of overwhelm and guilt that many parents experience. So why not grab yourself a little cup of tea and join us as we explore some important narratives in motherhood. “On 7th August, Penguin Life is publishing the first-ever interactive title from four-time-bestselling author and renowned psychotherapist Anna Mathur, The Good Decision Diary: Your daily guide to making better decisions, more of the time.” “The journey begins with 21 days of reflection and observation, where Anna shares her own experiences and equips you with tools to approach change with kindness and curiosity.

Have you ever wondered what it’s like growing up as a twin? As Isla and Aria grow up, I often wonder what life will be like, so I decided to have a chat with inspirational identical twin sisters Chloe and Judith MacCombe. Chloe and Judith were born with a type of albinism, which impacts their vision. In this podcast they share their incredible journey of how their twin bond has led them to competing on the world stage as Paratriathletes. Known as the Tandem twins, Chloe and Judith took time out of their busy training schedule to have a chat with me about what it’s really like to grow up as twins

Come spend an afternoon with us in our family home as Carla discusses her experience of two years of twin motherhood. This episode is a typical reflection of family life with twin toddlers as you accompany us during nap time, lunch time and play-time to create this week’s podcast episode!

On this Maternal Mental Health Week, I have chosen to talk about the significant topic of navigating grief during motherhood. My father passed away when the twins were 5 weeks old. Those early days of motherhood were a complete whirlwind managing hormones, recovering from a C Section and learning how to be a Mummy whilst grieving. In this podcast episode I will discuss my experience of managing loneliness and grief as a new Mum. 

“Double trouble,” “ You have your hands full,” these are some of the comments that many of us parents of multiples hear on a daily basis. Some remarks are positive, some negative and whilst for the most part people mean well, I would like to raise awareness on showing more compassion and kindness to families of multiples when you meet us on your travels. You never know what the journey towards parenthood was like for some of us. In this episode, Carla shares her emotional journey and discusses her experience of a C Section to mark Caesarean Section Awareness month.  

With Mother’s Day just around the corner, we are celebrating this memorable day with a special episode on the Twins Mummy NI Podcast. I think mothers should be celebrated today and every day for the wonderful things that they achieve in the quietness of their family homes. To mark this special day, Carla spoke to three mums of multiples who shared their stories of multiples motherhood. Happy Mothers’ Day everyone…

Do you ever compare yourself to others? Comparison can undermine the real joy of motherhood. Yet how many of us live by the side glance of others? How do we find more joy in our own experience of motherhood instead of getting caught in the comparison trap? In this episode Carla talks about how motherhood isn’t about striving for perfection, but rather an imperfect journey into the unknown focusing on our own strengths as mothers.

Motherhood can be hard and happy all at the same time. Before I became a Mum, so many people told me that my life would change significantly. They told me how challenging it would be, how stressful it would be. However, no one talked about the great joy that we experience when we are lucky to have someone who calls us Mum. In this episode Carla talks about her reality of motherhood and how it is OK to feel that our experience is happy and hard simultaneously.

Do you ever worry? Have you ever experienced anxiety in life? In motherhood?  If this resonates with you, the one thing I will say is that you’re not alone. Feeling afraid or unsure of yourself in motherhood is a common experience among many of us.  In this episode, Carla shares a very personal story of her experience of worry and opens up the conversation around anxiety in motherhood…

Juggling the joys of motherhood and a career with running your own business can be a real balancing act - local ‘mumpreneur’ Caroline O’Neill talks to Carla about her experience. 

Christmas is just around the corner. In this episode we travel to Australia, Europe and America to find out what Christmas is like as a mum of multiples! Grab yourself a cup of hot chocolate, get cosy and join Carla as we travel around the world into the homes of multiples mums to find out what Christmas is like in their family home!   Jingle Bells 7 by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Artist: http://incompetech.com/

What are some of your favourite Christmas memories as a child? Is it decorating your tree with sparkly lights? Or perhaps sitting in front of a roaring fire watching a Christmas movie with family? Join Carla as she reflects on the magic of Christmas as a child and now reliving that magic as a Mum as she decorates the Christmas tree. Carla also features a very special guest on the podcast discussing Christmas through the generations as a Grandma, Mum and Daughter.  All that and more on this week’s Twins Mummy NI Podcast Christmas special. Deck the Halls B by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100368 Artist: http://incompetech.com/

Putting together an outfit and feeling confident as I step out of the house has felt like a thing of the past since I have given birth. My priorities have changed in such a huge way. There isn’t as much time to carefully put together a nice outfit! I’ve decided I wanted to get some advice on how to feel confident again in the way that I dress since giving birth. So, I thought I would ask the lovely Linda from L’s Boutique in Magherafelt to give me some tips.

"My twins survived NICU and so did I” Twin Dad Carl MacDonald talks to Carla about how being thrust into sudden parenthood and NICU can affect a father. In this episode, Carl has chosen to share his story to encourage others that it's OK not to feel ok.

When was the last time that you got a full night's sleep? Bedtime struggles are common challenges faced by many of us in parenthood. Certainly in our house, there have been numerous nights where the whole house is feeling totally exhausted due to a lack of sleep.  I often talk about the importance of a maternal wellbeing in this podcast and on Instagram, and I think getting a good night’s sleep goes a long way to minding our mental health in parenthood.  I have spoken to many of you who have raised concerns about sleeping habits at night.  So I thought it would be good to delve into the reasons behind these difficulties and importantly to find effective solutions that could help the whole house get a better night’s sleep. In this episode, Lindsey, a Sleep Consultant shares her story from battling her children’s sleep struggles to becoming an advocate for sleep solutions.  Offering insights into sleep challenges and bedtime routine tips for families, Lindsey emphasises the significance of consistency to improve sleep quality for the whole family.

Have you ever wondered what it is like to grow up as a twin? This thought has often crossed my mind as I watch Isla and Aria grow up together as twin sisters.  I thought no better people to ask than the lovely local twins Zoe and Lucy who share such a special twin bond. Zoe and Lucy are phenomenal in their attitude to life. This episode is a double act of humour and sisterly love as we discover what life is like growing up as twin sisters. 

  Mum-of-six says her life has been transformed with twin daughters who were both born with Down’s Syndrome.   In this episode, Nardy and Carla discuss all things family life and how 7-year-old twins Hannah and Rachel bring so much joy to their family home.

Have you ever been asked a personal question that you simply didn’t know how to answer?  Before Isla and Aria arrived, I felt afraid of the unknown of pregnancy and childbirth. I had never experienced something so life changing. In today’s episode I raise awareness on how asking personal questions like this can feel hurtful for others. You never know what the journey may be like…

Sonia’s twins Leo and Everleigh are 3 years old and share a remarkable bond. Sonia’s son Leo was diagnosed with Down’s Syndrome shortly after he was born. Sonia has chosen to share her story to encourage others that it’s ok not to feel ok.   In her own words she tells us of her own personal discovery of the joy that a child with Down’s Syndrome can bring to a family.

Having twin boys feels like an ultra-marathon, says Olympian Kerry O’Flaherty who took part in the Rio Olympics in 2016. Nowadays Kerry is getting back on track running the roads in County Down with her twin pram. Kerry may have competed in the Olympics, but she says her twin boys are her Olympic medals.

We have arrived at our final destination of our summer road trip visiting the homes of twin mums across the world. This week we are in Canada to meet twin mum Meghan. Meghan shares her experience of NICU which sparked an idea that is now helping many families with babies in NICU in Ottawa. Also, Meghan and I discuss the many twists and turns we have experienced in twin motherhood. So why not grab yourself a cup of your favourite beverage and join us as we discuss all things multiples motherhood.

We are back on the road for our summer road trip visiting the homes of twin mums across the world. This week we are in America to meet Niki who shares a snapshot of what family life is like living on a farm in Florida. So why not grab yourself a cup of tea and join us as we discuss all things multiples motherhood across the Atlantic Ocean.

We are back on the road this week visiting the homes of some twin mums around the world. This week we are in Dublin to meet Mairead who takes us through her inspiring journey of twin motherhood. Like all things in life there are can be a lot of unpredictability and motherhood is no exception. During this episode Isla and Aria decided nap time was up and crash landed into our podcast. So why not grab yourself a cup of tea and join all 4 of us as we discuss the realities of twin family life!

We are off on our travels around the world again. This week we are in Bahrain to meet mum of 5 Caroline who talks to us about family life with two sets of twins!

Motherhood is a life changing journey no matter where in the world we are, it transcends countries and cultures bringing with it a range of stories from right across the globe. Throughout this series, I will take you into the homes of some twin mums that I have had the privilege to connect with from around the world. So, why not grab yourself a little cup of tea and join me as we travel around the world to spend some time with an inspirational group of multiples mums.  Our first stop on our world tour is Australia to meet twin mum Marni.

Carla reflects on her first year of twin motherhood. ***DISCLAIMER***  In this episode, Carla talks briefly about grief and the loss of a parent shortly after becoming one. Also, Carla spoke to some mums of multiples who share their experience of their first year of multiples motherhood. So why not grab yourself a little cup of tea and join us on this whirlwind journey navigating the first year of motherhood.

Imagine moving to London on your own, when you are 26 weeks pregnant with conjoined twins. That was the reality for local Twin Mum Hannah who embarked on a remarkable journey exuding resilience and strength to bring her two little girls Annie and Issie into the world. In this week’s episode, Hannah shares her experience of how she navigated that incredible journey that both herself and her husband Dan lived through. Also, Hannah shares helpful tips and advice on Twin Motherhood and what life is like now in their family home.

Pregnancy and childbirth can be perceived as a time of excitement and real joy, but for some women and their partners this is not the case, instead their  experience is fuelled with anxiety and an intense fear of pregnancy and giving birth. The question is how can we break down the stigma around fear of pregnancy and childbirth and how can we better support these women and their partners who experience this debilitating fear? Jean Greer is a Midwife based in the Belfast Health Trust. Around 15 years ago, Jean carried out a study to investigate these concerns raised among some women and their partners at The Royal Maternity Jubilee Hospital in Belfast. In this episode Jean talks to Carla about what fear in pregnancy and childbirth really means for some women and their families.

Birth and Trauma are two words that aren’t often associated together. Birth is often described as one of the happiest experiences of our lives. However, this is not the case for some women and their families. Ahead of Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week, I have been speaking to Perinatal Psychiatrist Dr Rebecca Moore who is an expert on Birth Trauma.

Childbirth is often described as one of the happiest moments of your life. But for some people it can be a journey filled with fear of the unknown. I was one of those people! With the kindness and support of a wonderful team at the Maternity Unit at Antrim Area Hospital, I was able to face my fear and Isla and Aria are here today to help me share my story with you for the very first time. I hope it helps someone listening to feel less alone. On this International Caesarean Awareness Month, this is my story…

This week the Twins Mummy NI Podcast was on the road! Carla takes you along to one of the Multiples Parents Meet Ups that she organises in Northern Ireland. Grab yourself a little cup of coffee and join us as we discuss all things Multiples Motherhood.

On the podcast this week, Carla discusses Mothering ourselves as well as our little ones during the challenging times in Motherhood. Self care is so important and shouldn’t be treated as an afterthought. But how do we manage to cope as parents when we are all feeling under the weather?

In this week's episode, Carla discusses all things Multiples Motherhood with Arlene who is Mum to 10 month old Triplets.

In this episode, Carla invites you into her family home to spend an afternoon with Isla and Aria.   

Welcome to the Twins Mummy NI Podcast I am Mummy to twins Isla and Aria Join us on our Twin Adventure as I explore a range of topics around Maternal Wellbeing and Motherhood