Boob to Food - The Podcast

Well… this is it. Our final episode of Boob to Food, the podcast. After over two years, 136 episodes, and more than a million downloads, we’re wrapping up the podcast with a relaxed chat, catching up on life, reflecting on the journey, and sharing what’s next. Whether you’ve been here from the beginning or you’re finding us for the first time, thank you for letting us be part of your parenting journey. For those who are tuning in for the first time, a little about us… Luka McCabe - founder of...

This week we’re celebrating World Breastfeeding Week with a special return guest: GP, IBCLC, and Possums/NDC practitioner, Dr Eliza Hannam. Eliza is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to maternal and infant health, and we’re thrilled to officially welcome her to the Boob to Food team as an adviser! In this episode, we explore the importance of preparing for breastfeeding before your baby arrives and why it’s one of the best gifts you can give yourself as a new parent. From understanding the ...

When it comes to feeding our little ones, it’s not always black and white and sometimes the signs that something’s not quite right can feel subtle, confusing, or easy to dismiss. That’s why today we’re speaking with the incredibly insightful Emily Tyler, Speech Pathologist at Boob to Food, about what she calls “feeding white flags”. With over a decade of experience supporting children in their feeding journeys, Emily is here to break down everything parents need to know about infant feeding a...

Most toddlers go through a phase of picky or particular eating, but how do you know if it’s “just a phase” or something more? If you’ve ever felt confused, frustrated, or unsure about what’s normal when it comes to your child’s eating habits, this conversation is for you. In this episode, we’re joined again by our much-loved OT Rachael Smith to explore what picky eating really looks like, when it might be a sign of something more serious (like a feeding disorder), and what support is availabl...

Tongue ties are one of the most asked-about topics in the Boob to Food community and also one of the most confusing. From conflicting advice to the debate around diagnosis and treatment, many parents are left wondering: Does my baby have a tongue tie? And if so, what should I do? In this episode, we’re joined by Emily Tyler, speech pathologist and founder of Chomp & Chat, to unpack the nuance and offer clear, compassionate guidance. Whether your child has been diagnosed, you’re noticing f...

Gestational diabetes (GDM) can feel overwhelming, and for many women, it comes with confusion, fear, or guilt. But a diagnosis doesn’t mean you’ve done anything wrong, and it certainly doesn’t mean you’re powerless. In this episode, we’re joined by Boob to Food clinic dietitian and nutritionist Niki Mohtat to explore what GDM actually is, why it happens, and how you can manage it with confidence through nourishing food, supportive lifestyle tweaks, and the right guidance. Niki Mohtat is...

Food sensitivities can feel like a confusing and overwhelming topic, especially when your little one is experiencing symptoms, and you’re trying to work out what’s going on. Unlike allergies, sensitivities can present in a wide variety of ways, and figuring out the right next step isn’t always clear-cut. In this episode, Lukca picks Kate’s brain about food sensitivities - what they are, how they’re different to allergies and intolerances, and how to navigate them with confidence. This convers...

It can feel frustrating (and confusing!) when your toddler suddenly starts refusing foods they used to love, especially when you’ve followed all the advice to raise an adventurous eater. In this episode, we’re joined by paediatric occupational therapist Rachael Smith to explore the common (and completely normal) reasons for food refusal, as well as signs that it might be time to seek extra support. Whether your child is going through a phase or there’s something deeper at play, this conversat...

In this week’s episode of Boob to Food the Podcast, Luka turns the tables and interviews Kate about a topic that almost every mum wonders about – when will my period come back after having a baby? From the hormonal shifts after birth, to how breastfeeding and stress play a role, to why some mums get their period six weeks postpartum while others wait over two years – we’re breaking it all down. Kate shares what’s considered normal, what symptoms might be a sign of imbalance, and what you can ...

In this week’s episode of Boob to Food the Podcast, Luka turns the tables and interviews Kate about everyone’s favourite parenting hot topic (or cold one?) - how to support your child’s immune system through winter. We know how tough it is when the colds and coughs keep circulating, especially when it takes down the whole family one by one. That’s why we’re diving into what a healthy immune system actually looks like in kids (spoiler: it’s not never getting sick), the factors that impact immu...

In true catch-up episode style, we’re chatting all things life, motherhood, expectations vs. reality (hello, Mother’s Day), rain-induced cabin fever, and the juggle of being a working parent. As well as a big update from Kate. We’re not crying, you’re crying. We dive into the why behind Kate’s decision, what she’ll still be doing with Boob to Food, and the messy, beautiful reality of honouring your values in motherhood, even when it means making a big change. For those who are tuning in for...

Whether you’re in the thick of starting solids or navigating toddler mealtimes, there’s one behaviour that comes up again and again - food throwing. It’s messy, frustrating, and often confusing… are they full? Bored? Just testing you? In today’s episode, Luka and Kate are joined once again by our brilliant in-house occupational therapist Rachael Smith to talk all things food throwing - why it happens, when it’s developmentally normal, and how to set boundaries without creating a power struggl...

Can children thrive on a plant-based diet? From Instagram debates to client consults, this topic stirs up a lot of emotions — and understandably so. Whether you’re fully plant-based, somewhere in between, or just plant-curious, this episode is packed with practical advice, no judgement, and a whole lot of nuance. We’re covering the nutritional concerns, what it actually means to be plant-based, how to make it work for little eaters, and why we don’t believe in fear-mongering around food. For ...

Between picky eating phases, snack obsessions, and the endless marketing of kids’ vitamins, it’s no wonder parents are left wondering "does my toddler actually need supplements?" In today’s episode, Luka and Kate break down the most common myths, the supplements that might help (and the ones that are a waste of money), and what to look for if you’re worried about your toddler’s nutrition. Spoiler: beige food phases are normal, and you probably don’t need to panic. For those who are tuning in ...

Nutrition plays a powerful role in fertility and the health of both parents and baby—but so many couples feel confused, overwhelmed, or unsure where to start. In this episode, we’re joined by prenatal dietitian and nutritionist (and one of our Boob to Food clinic practitioners!) Niki Mohtat to break down what preconception care actually looks like. We chat about why preconception nutrition matters, what to eat (and what to skip), and how to support both egg and sperm quality before falling pr...

We talk a lot about nutrition—what to feed our kids, how to nourish their growing bodies, and how to make mealtimes feel less like a battleground. But food is so much more than just fuel. It’s also wrapped up in culture, emotion, connection, and often… our own baggage. In today’s episode, we’re shifting the focus to the how of feeding our children—and exploring what it really means to raise intuitive eaters. Alyssa is the founder of Redwood Wellbeing, a health coach, intuitive eating counsell...

Dr Chai is back for a third time on the podcast to help us navigate some of the most frequently asked questions about food allergies—this time diving into the grey areas that many families feel confused about, like breastfeeding and allergens, eczema and food introduction, and the difference between allergies and intolerances. We also explore a hot topic in the allergy world right now: oral immunotherapy (or desensitisation). Dr Chaitanya Bodapati is a dual-trained Paediatric Allergy/Immunolo...

We’re back for part two with paediatric allergist and immunologist Dr Chaitanya Bodapati (aka Dr Chai) to continue the conversation about allergies—this time focusing on what to do if your child reacts to a food. Allergies are on the rise, and the process of introducing allergens can be anxiety-inducing for many families. But what happens when your child actually has a reaction? Whether it’s mild hives or something more serious like anaphylaxis, the path forward can feel overwhelming and uncl...

Allergies are one of the most common—and nerve-wracking—concerns for families starting solids. From knowing when to introduce allergens to understanding how often they should be offered, it’s no wonder so many parents feel overwhelmed. In this week’s episode of Boob to Food The Podcast, we’re joined by the brilliant (and relatable) Dr. Chaitanya Bodapati, a dual-trained paediatric allergist/immunologist and general paediatrician. Not only does she bring a wealth of clinical experience, but sh...

Is there anything more terrifying than the thought of your baby choking? If you’ve ever hesitated to serve finger foods because you’re scared of choking, you’re not alone. In this week’s episode, we chat with Nicole from Rhythm First Aid, a paediatric emergency nurse and first aid educator, to break down the difference between gagging and choking, how to prevent choking, and—most importantly—what to do in an emergency. For those who are tuning in for the first time, a little about us… Luka ...

Welcome back to another catch-up episode of Boob to Food, the Podcast. This week, it’s just Luka and Kate chatting all things life, motherhood, and the unpredictable rollercoaster that is raising little humans. From a catastrophic freezer meltdown to a toddler crashing the family car (yes, really!), plus big reflections on closing the chapter on having more babies, this episode is a little chaotic—just like mum life itself! For those who are tuning in for the first time, a little about us… Lu...

When it comes to introducing your little one to cup drinking, there’s no shortage of opinions—especially about sippy cups. Are they bad for oral development? Will they delay speech? Should you skip straight to an open cup? To clear up the confusion, we’re joined by Emily Tyler, a speech pathologist (and mum of twins!) who has recently joined the Boob to Food team. With over a decade of experience supporting children in their feeding journeys, Emily is here to break down everything parents nee...

When it comes to feeding little ones after 12 months, one of the most common questions we get is: Does my child need cow’s milk or toddler formula? With so much conflicting advice from health professionals, formula companies, and well-meaning family members, it can feel overwhelming to know what’s truly best for your child. In this episode, Luka and Kate break it all down—what the recommendations actually are, why milk drinks aren’t necessary for toddlers, and how to ensure your little one is...

When it comes to starting solids, one of the biggest concerns for parents is constipation. If you’ve ever been told that constipation is ‘normal’ for babies, we’re here to set the record straight—it’s common, but it’s not normal. In this episode, Luka and Kate dive deep into constipation: what causes it, why it happens around the time of starting solids, and what you can do to support your little one. From dietary changes and hydration to gut health and possible food sensitivities, we’re cove...

In this episode of Boob to Food the Podcast, Luka and Kate continue the starting solids journey, diving into what to expect as your baby approaches the 9–12 month mark. By now, you’ve probably navigated the messy beginnings, introduced some allergens, and discovered what your baby loves (and throws on the floor!). But what comes next? We’ll cover how to transition from those early purees to family meals, when to introduce more structured mealtimes, and how to handle the inevitable phases of f...

When it comes to starting solids, one of the most important pieces of equipment is the high chair. With so many options on the market, it can feel overwhelming to choose the right one - especially when it comes to posture, safety, and mealtime success. In this episode, Luka and Kate are joined by our paediatric occupational therapist Rachael Smith to break down exactly what to look for in a high chair and why getting it right from the start can set your baby up for a positive feeding journey....

We’re back with our first non-educational episode of the year, and it’s a good one! After months of keeping things strictly informative, we decided it was time for a catch-up chat—because let’s be honest, sometimes we all just need a bit of lighthearted chaos. So, what have we been up to over the summer holidays? Well, Luka went camping (cue the inevitable camping curse 😬), Kate has been keeping a few things from Luka, and we chat about all the things—turning 40, surviving school holidays, Ch...

If your baby is starting solids, you’ve likely wondered: How do I safely offer finger foods? It’s one of the biggest concerns for parents embarking on their solids journey, and understandably so. This week, Luka and Kate break down everything you need to know about safely introducing finger foods. From the right size, shape, and texture to practical tips on reducing the risk of choking. For those who are new here, a little about us… •Luka McCabe – founder of Boob to Food, author of Milk to Me...

If your baby is past the initial stage of starting solids, you might be wondering—what’s next (and WTF is going on!)? In this episode of Boob to Food the Podcast, Luka and Kate dive into the 7–9 month stage of your baby’s feeding journey. How do you know when to move from one meal to two? What should these meals look like? And how can you keep milk feeds as the nutritional priority while introducing more foods? For those who are tuning in for the first time, a little about us… Luka McCabe –...

When it comes to starting solids, one of the most common questions we receive at Boob to Food is, “What’s the best feeding method for my baby?” In this episode, Luka and Kate dive into the options, sharing their insights on baby-led weaning (finger foods) and spoon-feeding (purees) to help you find the approach that’s right for your family. Spoiler alert: there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, and your baby might just decide for you! For those who are tuning in for the first time, a little a...

As the year comes to a close, the festive season brings with it an abundance of joy, traditions, and cherished family moments. However, it can also come with its fair share of challenges, especially for parents of young children. In our final episode of Boob to Food The Podcast for 2024, Kate and Luka dive into a candid conversation about how to navigate the holiday season with little ones in tow. For those who are tuning in for the first time, a little about us… Luka McCabe - founder of Boob...

Parenting is full of challenges, but when your child doesn’t quite “fit the box,” it can leave you with more questions than answers. This week on Boob to Food the podcast, we’re joined by two incredible guests, Madonna King and Bec Sparrow, to explore the topic of neurodivergence. In their new book, Out of the Box, Madonna and Bec unpack the complexities of raising and supporting neurodivergent children, offering practical guidance and hope for families navigating this journey. Madonna King...

To wrap up our book tour and celebration of Toddler to Table, join us for a special live recording of Boob to Food the podcast from our Byron Bay event. This event was such a beautiful conclusion to the tour, and we are glad to share a small part of it with you - we wish we could have shared the amazing breakfast spread with you too, but hey, technology isn't quite there yet! We dive into all things Toddler to Table—from navigating the unique nutritional needs (and wants!) of growing toddlers...

Is your baby showing signs they’re ready to start solids or are you wanting to be prepared with the latest evidence around this exciting milestone? In this episode, Luka and Kate dive into all the foundations you need to feel prepared and confident to begin your journey. For those who are tuning in for the first time, a little about us… Luka McCabe - founder of Boob to Food, author of Milk to Meals and Toddler to Table, as well as mum of 3Kate Holm - naturopath, nutritionist, General Ma...

How would you feel if you knew that the type of food you served your kids was not the most important thing for their health? Nor is the amount they eat either. Well, today's guest is will definitely have you breathing a sigh of relief. Dr. MacNamara’s wisdom is deeply reassuring, helping parents let go of feeding anxieties and embrace a more trusting, playful, and connected approach to family meals. Whether you’re navigating picky eating, sensitive kiddos, or mealtime chaos, this episode is p...

Becoming a mother brings incredible joy and love, but it also introduces new challenges – especially when it comes to how we feel about our bodies. Body image can feel like an overwhelming part of the motherhood journey - not just observing changes within ourselves, but also being mindful of the messages we are passing on to our kids. On today's episode we are joined by Revie Jane, whose candid insights are refreshing and relatable, and her advice will resonate with anyone looking to prioriti...

Happy 100 episodes and 1million downloads to us! We feel so excited, grateful and privileged to reach this huge milestone, and it wouldn't have been possible without all of our incredibly listeners. To celebrate we wanted to answer some of your questions about us and the podcast, as well as give you a little update about how things will look in 2025... For those who are tuning in for the first time, a little about us… Luka McCabe - founder of Boob to Food, author of Milk to Meals and Toddler ...

In this special episode in honour of World Fertility Day, we’re joined by Keira Rumble, entrepreneur, mother, and advocate, as she opens up about her deeply personal journey with infertility and hyperemesis gravidarum (HG). Keira shares the highs, lows, and everything in between – from enduring multiple fertility treatments to facing the debilitating symptoms of HG while parenting a toddler. Her story is one of strength, vulnerability, and the unwavering determination to build a family (and T...

Can't attend our events in person? We've got you covered! Join us for a special live recording of Boob to Food the podcast from our Sydney Toddler to Table book launch event in collaboration with our friends at Le Puree! This episode brings the energy, excitement, and heartfelt connections from our incredible community of parents and caregivers, with the whole Boob to Food team, hosted by the beautiful Renee Bargh. We dive into all things Toddler to Table—from navigating the unique nutritiona...

Today on Boob to Food the podcast we dive into the realities of single motherhood with Jessica Dover. We discuss the emotional, physical, and mental toll that single parenting can take, and how Jessica has learned to navigate the ups and downs while raising her child on her own. If you are a single parent or know someone who is, this episode will offer support, validation, and practical tips for navigating parenthood on your own. Jessica’s story reminds us that, while the journey may be...

Feeling like your sex life has gone the way of uninterrupted sleep? You’re not alone! In this episode of Boob to Food the podcast Melody Thomas, creator of The Good Sex Project, explores how to reignite intimacy after kids—and why it’s okay if things are a little… different these days. Melody Thomas is a New Zealand-based podcast creator, writer, and co-founder of Popsock Media. She is best known for hosting The Good Sex Project, a podcast that explores candid conversations around sex and rel...

In this deeply moving episode of Boob to Food The Podcast, we were fortunate enough to explore one of the most heart-wrenching experiences a parent can face—the loss of a child with the incredible Gina Chick. Through her own powerful story and her work with others, Gina offers such compassionate and open-hearted wisdom on the complexities of grief, healing, and how to navigate life after such profound loss. Gina Chick is a rewilding facilitator, adventurer, writer, and speaker with a deep pas...

October is Eczema Awareness Month, so we’re bringing in nutritionist and naturopath Ash Yates from the Boob to Food clinic to help you navigate the minefield that is managing childhood eczema. From identifying triggers to finding relief through holistic care, Ash shares her wisdom on what’s really going on with your little one's skin. Whether you're dealing with flare-ups, itching, or just looking for a deeper understanding, this episode is for you. Having always had an interest in health, As...

Ready to say goodbye to nappies? Aren't we all! In this episode of Boob to Food the podcast, we dive into the world of toilet training with paediatric occupational therapist Rachael Smith. Whether you're wondering when to start, how to deal with accidents, or what signs to look for that your child is ready, Rachael brings practical advice to guide you through every stage of the process. For those who don’t know Rach, she is a mum to her daughter Olive and son Teddy, a Paediatric Occupational ...

In this episode of Boob to Food the podcast, we’re diving into one of the biggest challenges for modern parents—how to trust ourselves in a world full of parenting advice. Caitlin Hocken from ChildWise, shares her insights on why so many parents today feel like they’ve lost their way and how to reconnect with your inner wisdom and parent in alignment with your values. Caitlin Hocken founded “ChildWise – Conscious Parenting Support” in 2020 to deliver education, coaching, and support to anyo...

In this special R U OK Day episode of Boob to Food the podcast, we sit down with Brent Draper, well-known for his appearance on MasterChef Australia, and his wife Shonleigh, as they open up about their journey through Brent's experience with anxiety and mental health challenges. This episode is a timely reminder for R U OK Day to check in with yourself and those around you, because a simple conversation can make a world of difference. Brent Draper (Drapes) is a loved and respected TV personal...

Motherhood is a beautiful, chaotic, and deeply emotional journey. As mums, we often find ourselves juggling a myriad of feelings—from the joy of tiny milestones to the overwhelm of sleepless nights and endless responsibilities. In this episode of Boob to Food the podcast, we explore the complex landscape of emotions that mums navigate daily. Whether you're feeling frazzled, disconnected, or simply seeking more calm in your day-to-day, this episode is packed with compassionate insights to help...

This week on Boob to Food the podcast, we’re celebrating Father’s Day with a very special episode. We’ve turned the tables and invited our husbands, Jesse and Mike, to share their experiences of fatherhood. As the dads behind the scenes of Boob to Food, they’ve been our rock through the highs and lows of parenting, and now it's their turn to take the mic (yay! says Mike... do I have to? says Jesse). In this candid conversation, Jesse and Mike open up about what it means to be a father in toda...

Sadly more and more children are exhibiting signs of anxiety at an early age. But how can parents discern between normal childhood fears and more serious anxiety issues? And what steps can they take to support their child through these challenging emotions? This week we welcome back our honorary co-host Dr. Billy Garvey, a renowned developmental paediatrician, to explore a topic that weighs heavily on many parents' hearts—childhood anxiety. Billy is a developmental paediatrician with nearly 2...

With so much emphasis on pregnancy and bub's arrival, have you even had a chance to consider what happens next? Whether you're a new mum, expecting, or supporting someone through their postpartum journey, this episode is packed with practical tips and heartfelt advice to help you feel empowered and supported during this transformative time. In today's episode we speak with the incredible Jessica Prescott, a renowned postpartum doula, cookbook author, photographer and mother who shares her wea...