This week, Vanessa Feltz and Saskia Joss dive into the emotional rollercoaster of separation anxiety. That all too familiar moment when a simple goodbye turns into a full-scale meltdown. Whether it’s school drop-off, bedtime or just stepping out of the room, they explore why some children struggle so deeply with separation, what’s really going on beneath the tears and how parents can support their children without losing their own sanity in the process.

Vanessa opens up about a memorable trip that brought separation anxiety to the forefront in her own family. And together with heartfelt stories, psychological insight and practical advice, the duo talk through the subtle signs of anxiety that parents often miss, the dos and don’ts when emotions run high and how to build confidence and trust in children who find goodbyes just too hard.

Vanessa Feltz and childhood mental health expert Saskia Joss unpack the real meaning behind anxiety: why it happens, how it speaks through behaviour, and what it’s trying to signal - not just in children, but in all of us.

They explore how to spot the early signs of anxiety in young people, and share the essential first steps parents can take to support their child - without blame, shame or guilt. Vanessa also opens up about her own anxiety, including how it caught her off guard during her time on Strictly Come Dancing.

Whether you're a parent, carer, or just curious about mental health, this podcast blends expert insight with heartfelt conversation. Don’t forget to subscribe or follow, so every episode will appear automatically for you each week.

Parenting is hard. And when anxiety enters the picture, it can feel impossible. If your child is struggling and you're not sure what to do next, this is the podcast for you.

Join broadcaster Vanessa Feltz and her daughter, child therapist Saskia Joss, as they unpack the emotional rollercoaster of raising kids - especially when anxiety or emotional overwhelm start to take over. With a powerful mix of professional insight, real-life stories, and no-judgment honesty, each episode offers clear, compassionate advice to help you feel more equipped and less alone.

From school refusal and separation anxiety, tricky teens to bedtime battles, they tackle the hardest parenting moments with warmth, humour, and expert guidance - because while parenting doesn’t come with a manual, this podcast might be the next best thing.

Listen and subscribe on Global Player, download the app, or head to globalplayer.com.