AlphaBites

In this conversation, Kate and Lucy speak with Becky Congreve, a teacher, phase leader, and founder of Cash Academy — and someone who knows first-hand what happens when money is never talked about at home. Becky grew up in a household where money was firmly behind closed doors. The most she got was "we can't afford it" — no explanation, no conversation, just move on. It wasn't until she lost her m...

In this conversation, Kate and Lucy speak with Matt Bawler , an early years education specialist passionate about transforming how we support children's mental health and development from the very beginning. Drawing on his childhood in Kenya and his career in education, Matt explores how early experiences shape lifelong wellbeing, and why the foundational years are critical in building resilience,...

In this conversation, Kate and Lucy interview Jas, co-founder of the Luna app, which aims to provide a safe and supportive platform for teens to learn about health, wellness, and emotional well-being. They discuss the evolution of information sources for teens, the importance of addressing their concerns, and how Luna is designed to be a trusted resource for both teens and their parents. The conve...

In this powerful episode, Kate and Lucy speak with Ruby Raut - entrepreneur and founder of WUKA - about transforming the way we talk about periods, bodies, and confidence. Ruby shares her journey from growing up in Nepal to building one of the UK's most recognised period-wear brands. She reflects on her childhood as a brave, curious child and the cultural taboos surrounding menstruation that shape...

In this amazing episode, Kate and Lucy speak to Emma Lewry, former primary headteacher and creator of the COOL Curriculum, about the transformative power of play-based learning. Emma shares how her own childhood, filled with outdoor adventures and imaginative play, shaped her passion for education and ultimately led her to develop a curriculum that champions limitless learning through play. She wa...

  During our discussion with Kimberley Oliff-Cooper, founder of Thrive Now, we explored the role of education in shaping young minds, the importance of meeting children where they are, and how schools can move towards a more holistic, future-ready approach. In this inspiring and deeply human conversation, we dive into Kimberley's powerful vision for a more inclusive, progressive system that truly...

In this one of a kind, enlightening conversation we speak to Cindy Gallop, founder of Make Love Not Porn and discuss the critical need for open dialogue about sex education. She shares her personal journey and the inception of her platform, which aims to destigmatise sexuality and promote healthy sexual attitudes. Our discussion emphasises the importance of age-appropriate sex education, the chall...

In this insightful podcast episode, Dr. Beth Lane and Narinder Gill discuss their innovative work in AI education. They share their backgrounds, the importance of AI literacy, and their vision for the Institute of AI Education. The conversation covers the challenges and opportunities in integrating AI into schools, emphasising critical thinking and problem-solving. They also highlight the need for...

In this engaging conversation, Shilpa shares her diverse childhood experiences and how they shaped her understanding of emotional intelligence and creativity. She discusses the importance of teaching children about self-knowledge and emotional resilience, especially in an increasingly AI-driven world. Shilpa also highlights her initiative, Mindset, Mimi and Me, which aims to provide children with...

In this enlightening conversation, Karen Snook and her co-founder discuss the importance of preserving childhood in an increasingly tech-driven world. They share personal experiences and insights on how technology impacts child development, the significance of family time, and practical tips for parents to foster a more present and engaged parenting style. The discussion emphasizes the need for ba...

In this episode of Alphabites, Kate and Lucy interview Nadia, exploring her childhood, experiences with shyness, and her work with Shy and Mighty. Nadia shines her light on shyness through sharing her personal stories and lived experience, insights on societal perceptions of shyness, and her mission to empower shy individuals through books and coaching. ********************** Join the conversation...

In this conversation,  Sophie David , founder of Little Happy Learners , joins Kate and Lucy to reflect on her lively childhood in a family of five sisters and how it shaped her love of family and education. She shares the emotional challenges of supporting her three children through school transitions, especially her daughter's separation anxiety, and the importance of staying positive while vali...

We are back for a fresh new season bringing the new season energy! Join Lucy and I for this solo episode as we share our Summers with you, discuss back to school and all that brings and have a laugh as always. We also tease what is to come in Season 2 - you have a few treats coming your way! Find a new episode every other Monday and in the meantime check out Alpha Bites on Instagram @‌this_is_alph...

One Whole Year of Alphabites! It's our birthday! 🥳 In this special 25th episode, we're flipping the script: no guest, just your hosts Kate & Lucy reflecting on a brilliant first year of Alphabites. We're looking back on the conversations, the growth, the community, and our  first live birthday event in Berkhamsted. What a ride of the very best kind it has been! ************ Learn Happy Summer Boo...

I n this conversation, Kirstie Beaven , founder and editor of Sonshine Magazine, discusses her unique childhood experiences growing up with dual heritage and how it shaped her perspective on parenting boys. She emphasizes the importance of raising boys in a positive, non-judgmental environment, challenging traditional gender norms and stereotypes. Kirstie shares the journey of creating Sunshine Ma...

In this conversation, Leanna Barrett shares her transformative journey in reshaping education through the establishment of Little Forest Folk and Liberty Woodland School. She discusses the importance of wellbeing, emotional intelligence, and innovative learning approaches that prioritise children's needs and interests. The conversation highlights the challenges faced in the education sector, the c...

As mothers, we are the cornerstone of our families, juggling work, parenting, relationships, and everything in between. But what happens when our bodies start to change, and we're met with fatigue, mood swings, brain fog, and other perimenopausal symptoms—while still raising the next generation? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Barton to discuss how the menopause journey impacts not just us a...

In this conversation, Mari shares her insights on family health, nutrition, and the importance of whole foods. Mari discusses her journey towards understanding nutrition, the impact of sugar on health, and the role of diet in children's performance at school. She highlights the dangers of ultra-processed foods and advocates for healthier options for families. In this conversation, Mari and AlphaBi...

In this quite amazing episode of Alpha Bites, Anna shares her journey through motherhood, mental health, and life as a psychotherapist. We dive into the realities of parenting, the pressures of perfectionism, and the power of self-compassion. Anna opens up about guilt, shame, and the importance of being a 'good enough' parent. She also reflects on themes from her book  The Uncomfortable Truth , in...

Friendships can be one of the most rewarding parts of life—but they can also be complicated, messy, and sometimes painful. In this episode, we sit down with  Kate Edcumbe Rendle, founder of id you to explore the highs and lows of friendships. From navigating fallouts to fostering deeper connections, we unpack what makes friendships thrive and what to do when they break down. Find Kate's website ht...

This episode delves into the rapidly evolving world of AI and its potential to inspire children in their learning journeys. As digital pioneers, today's generation is poised to embrace AI as both a trusted companion and a valuable tool. Chantelle, who has integrated AI into her tutoring services for some time, shares insightful strategies and quick wins to enhance children's learning experiences....

Episode 17 bites into smart phones, social media and our families digital diets! Dr Kathy Weston. In this episode, we sit down with parenting and digital resilience expert Dr. Kathy Weston to explore the challenges and opportunities of raising children in a tech-driven world. From screen time and gaming to smartphones and social media, Dr. Weston shares research-backed advice on how parents can cr...

Charlotte Clark is the founder of The Happy Human Project , which provides emotional wellbeing sessions for schools and nurseries, helping children develop techniques to build resilience, confidence, and emotional regulation.   We loved getting to know Charlotte and hearing about her personal journey—growing up as a 'glass child' and recognising her own conditions of worth. We took a bite into the...

Jo Carlile is a Chartered Clinical Psychologist with experience in both the NHS and private sector. She supports individuals who are struggling to function in their daily lives and/or experiencing high levels of distress.   Jo is disrupting the culture of mental health by creating an app that provides a platform for everyone to be guided towards their own 'norm'.   In this episode, we took a deep...

Lucy and Kate reflect on key moments from the pod this year and wanted to wish their audience a Merry Christmas. They share what goes on behind the scenes, the hurdles they've overcome, the 'BITES' that have impacted them and their audience the most and basically alllllllll the best bits. What a year!   This episode is like catching up with two good friends—relatable, hilarious, and full of feel-g...