Do Not Disturb: The Inside Story
Simona Deifta
0
Do Not Disturb: The Inside Story is a podcast for women navigating careers, family, and the question of how to manage it all. Hosted by Simona Deifta, founder of NOJO and a working mother, each episode features honest conversations with women about ambition, relationships, sex, money, fertility, burnout, resilience, and reinvention. The show aims to make listeners feel seen and less alone by discussing topics usually kept behind closed doors. New episodes are released every Wednesday.
Bölümler
-
Amelia Christie-Miller: Building Bold Bean Co and Making Britain Obsessed With Beans 16.09.2026 48dkWhat does it take to make Britain obsessed with beans? Simona Deifta sits down with Bold Bean Co founder Amelia Christie-Miller to talk about building a challenger food brand, creating a new category, the reality behind Dragons’ Den, and the naming decision that nearly sent the business in a very different direction.A candid conversation about conviction, risk, brand-building and turning an overlooked everyday product into something people genuinely care about.Watch the full episode on the Do Not Disturb YouTube channel.Follow Amelia Christie-Miller and Bold Bean Co on LinkedIn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. -
Sabrina Sarl: Ambition, Motherhood and Building a Creative Career on Your Own Terms 02.09.2026 45dkWhat happens when you leave your job, start a business and discover you are pregnant in the same week?In this episode, Simona speaks with Sabrina Sarl, creative business adviser, artist manager and host of Mothers of Creativity. Sabrina has spent more than 15 years working across the creative industries and now creates space for honest conversations about how motherhood shapes creative careers.Sabrina reflects on how motherhood changed the shape of her work without erasing her ambition. She and Simona discuss the promise and pressure of self-employment, why comparing yourself with people who are not parents is a trap, the different expectations placed on creative mothers and fathers, and what it takes to define success on your own terms.At the heart of the conversation is a more useful question than “Can mothers have it all?”: what is the life and career you actually want to build now?In this conversation:• Leaving a job, starting a business and becoming pregnant at the same time• How motherhood changes the shape of ambition• The flexibility and hidden pressure of self-employment• Why creative parents are working with genuinely limited resources• The danger of comparing yourself with people who are not parents• The different expectations placed on creative mothers and fathers• Building Mothers of Creativity• Redefining success after motherhoodFind Sabrina:Mothers of Creativity: https://podcast.mothersofcreativity.com/Website: https://www.sabrinasarl.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sabrina.sarl/Follow Do Not Disturb: @donotdisturbpodsIf this conversation resonated, follow the show, leave a review and share it with a woman rebuilding ambition on her own terms. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. -
The Motherhood We Were Never Prepared For, with Becky Selbie 26.08.2026 56dkMany women prepare carefully for the baby. Far fewer are prepared for what motherhood will do to their identity, relationships, body, ambition and sense of control.Simona Deifta is joined by Becky Selbie, a therapist specialising in maternal mental health and the founder of Motherway. Together they explore the expectation-versus-reality gap, matrescence, perfectionism, accepting help, invisible labour and why high-achieving women can find motherhood especially destabilising.This is not an episode about becoming a perfect mother. It is an honest conversation about what motherhood actually feels like—and why women may be responding normally to impossible expectations.Find Becky on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_motherway_/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. -
Gillian Orr: Why Comparison Steals Motherhood 05.08.2026 37dkComparison is the thief of joy—but motherhood can make the timelines women are measured against feel even louder.In this episode, Simona speaks with Gillian Orr, award-winning journalist, former Editor-in-Chief of Refinery29 UK and writer of Slouching Towards Bethnal Green. Gillian reflects on building a career in women’s media, becoming a mother at 39, having her role eliminated while she was on maternity leave, moving into freelance work and slowly finding her ambition again.They talk honestly about the loneliness of maternity leave, why high-powered motherhood so often depends on invisible help, the affluent version of motherhood over-represented in media, the rise and fall of “girlboss” culture, and Gillian’s decision to have one child.At the heart of the conversation is a simple permission slip: stop measuring your life against other people’s milestones and choose the timeline that is right for you.In this conversation:Gillian’s journey from The Independent to launching Refinery29 UKCareer identity after maternity leaveBecoming a mother at 39 and the pressure attached to turning 35The loneliness that can accompany maternity leaveWhy “having it all” usually depends on invisible helpWhat women’s media gets wrong about affluent motherhoodChoosing to have one childLosing ambition, finding it again and allowing life to move in seasonsWhy comparison and age-based milestones steal joyContent note: this episode includes discussion of fertility anxiety, pregnancy, prenatal depression, maternity leave and maternal identity.Gillian’s newsletter:https://gillianorr.substack.com/Gillian on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/gillian__orr/Gillian’s Refinery29 archive:https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/author/gillian-orrFollow Do Not Disturb:@donotdisturbpodsIf this conversation resonated, follow the show, leave a review and share it with a woman who needs permission to choose her own timeline. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. -
Anna Hushlak: How To Turn Yourself On To Life Again 15.07.2026 50dkAnna Hushlak: Why Women Feel Disconnected From ThemselvesWhen did life start feeling like something you were managing rather than truly living?In this episode of Do Not Disturb, I sit down with Anna Hushlak, author of Turn Yourself On, to explore why so many women feel disconnected from themselves and what it takes to reconnect with their energy, desire, creativity, and sense of aliveness.We discuss the pressures of modern life, motherhood, burnout, people-pleasing, self-abandonment, and the ways women gradually lose touch with what they actually want.In this episode, we discuss:• Why so many women feel disconnected from themselves• The hidden cost of people-pleasing• Burnout, exhaustion, and emotional numbness• Motherhood, identity, and desire• Reconnecting with your body and intuition• What "turning yourself on" really means• Living with more presence, energy, and joy• Creating a life that feels good from the inside outWhether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, burnt out, or simply curious about reconnecting with yourself, this conversation offers a powerful perspective on what it means to feel fully alive again.Follow Do Not Disturb Podcast:Instagram: @donotdisturbpodsFollow Anna Hushlak:@annahushlakBook:Turn Yourself OnFollow Simona:@greeninlondonWebsite:www.donotdisturbpodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. -
The Data Behind Modern Motherhood: Emily Oster 08.07.2026 56dkWhat happens when the advice parents receive is driven more by fear than by evidence?In this episode of Do Not Disturb, I sit down with economist, bestselling author and mother Emily Oster for an honest conversation about modern parenting, decision-making, risk, and why so many parents feel paralysed by the pressure to get everything right.We live in an age of more parenting information than ever before. Yet many mothers and fathers feel less confident, more anxious, and more afraid of making the wrong decision.Emily has built her career by asking a different question:What does the evidence actually say?Together we explore how fear has become embedded in modern parenting, why guilt has become almost a default emotion for parents, and how understanding data can help us make calmer, more confident decisions.This isn’t a conversation about finding the perfect way to raise children.It’s a conversation about learning to trust yourself when the world is telling you there is only one right answer.In this episode we discuss:Why parenting feels more overwhelming than everPregnancy advice versus evidenceVaccines, risk and making informed decisionsScreen time, phones and children’s independenceWhy modern parents feel so guiltyRaising resilient children rather than perfectly protected onesHow data can reduce anxiety instead of creating itWhat confident parenting actually looks likeWhether you’re expecting your first child, raising teenagers, or simply trying to navigate modern family life with more confidence, this episode offers a thoughtful, evidence-based perspective on one of the biggest responsibilities we’ll ever have.About Emily OsterEmily Oster is a professor of economics at Brown University, bestselling author of Expecting Better, Cribsheet, The Family Firm and The Unexpected, and founder of ParentData. Through her books, research and writing, she has helped millions of parents make informed decisions by translating complex evidence into practical advice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. -
Hiba Siddiqui: The Truth About Postpartum Recovery 01.07.2026 49dkHiba Siddiqui: The Truth About Postpartum RecoveryWhy are women expected to prepare for birth, but not for what comes after?In this episode of Do Not Disturb, I sit down with Hiba Siddiqui, founder of The Tenth Wellness, to discuss postpartum recovery, maternal health, motherhood, and the realities of healing after having a baby.We explore the physical, emotional, and identity shifts that many women experience after birth, why postpartum care remains overlooked, and what mothers actually need during the fourth trimester and beyond.This is a conversation about recovery, support, expectations, and giving women permission to prioritise their own wellbeing.In this episode, we discuss:• What postpartum recovery really looks like• Why so many mothers feel unsupported after birth• The physical and emotional impact of the fourth trimester• Pelvic floor health, healing, and recovery• Identity shifts after becoming a mother• Why maternal care needs to change• Asking for help and accepting support• Building a healthier motherhood experienceWhether you're expecting a baby, navigating postpartum, supporting a new mother, or simply interested in women's health, this episode offers an honest and refreshing perspective on one of the most important and overlooked periods in a woman's life.Follow Do Not Disturb Podcast:Instagram and TikTok: @donotdisturbpodswww.donotdisturbpodcast.comFollow Simona:@greeninlondonThe Tenthhttps://thetenthwellness.com/lander?utm_source=chatgpt.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. -
Mimi Ikonn: “The Courage to Choose Yourself" 24.06.2026 1sa 8dkMimi Ikonn: Motherhood, Ambition & Choosing YourselfWhat happens when the life you've worked so hard to build no longer feels aligned with the person you're becoming?In this episode of Do Not Disturb, I sit down with entrepreneur, author, and mother Mimi Ikonn for an honest conversation about identity, ambition, motherhood, marriage, and the courage it takes to keep choosing yourself through every stage of life.We explore the invisible shifts that happen after becoming a mother, the pressure women feel to be everything to everyone, and why success often looks very different once children enter the picture.This isn't a conversation about having it all. It's a conversation about deciding what actually matters.In this episode, we discuss:• How motherhood changed Mimi's relationship with ambition• The hidden mental and emotional load many women carry• What a "good mother" really looks like• Marriage, partnership, and evolving together• Reinventing yourself without losing yourself• Why choosing yourself is not selfish• Building a life that feels aligned with who you are todayWhether you're building a career, raising children, navigating a relationship, or quietly questioning the path you're on, this episode offers a thoughtful perspective on growth, identity, and modern womanhood.If this conversation resonates, please follow the podcast, leave a review, and share it with someone who might need to hear it.Follow Do Not Disturb Podcast:Instagram: @do.not.disturb.podcastFollow Mimi:@mimiikonnFollow Simona:@greeninlondonMimi's book:Choose Yourselfwww.donotdisturbpodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. -
My Natural Unmedicated Birth Story: Simona Deifta 05.11.2025 32dk“I ripped out the IV, roared like a wild animal… and my baby flew out.”In this raw and deeply personal episode of Do Not Disturb, I share my unfiltered birth story. From resisting pressure to induce, to giving birth to a 4.3kg baby without medication, in my own way.After a medical system filled with fear-based advice and mounting interventions, I chose to listen to her body instead. The result? A powerful, instinctive, and emotional delivery that challenges everything we think we know about birth.Whether you're pregnant, planning, or just curious, this episode will leave you inspired, informed, and reminded of the power within.👉 If this helped, share it with someone who needs to hear it and don’t forget to press the HYPE button!#NaturalBirth #birthstory #unmedicatedbirth #pregnancyjourney #donotdisturbpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. -
Birth Without Fear: How to Prepare for a Natural Childbirth │ Catherine Rose-Bloom 08.10.2025 1sa 10dkWant to know how to walk into your birth feeling confident, prepared, and trusting your body? In this episode, I talk to Catherine Rose-Bloom, certified antenatal, birth and postnatal doula, to dive deep into natural, unmedicated childbirth, birth mindset, and practical tips every mother should know.We cover how to prepare physically, mentally and emotionally for labour, myth bust common medical narratives, and reveal actionable strategies to reduce fear and increase trust in your body. Whether you’re pregnant for the first time or preparing for your next birth, Catherine’s insights will help you feel seen, informed, and empowered.You’ll hear about:Techniques for coping with pain and breath workHow to choose your support team (midwives, doulas, birth partners)The truth about interventions: What’s optional vs necessaryPostnatal care and how to heal well physically & emotionallyReal stories and wisdom based on Catherine’s work✅ If you found this helpful, please like, comment your big takeaway, and share with other mothers who might benefit.✅ For more birth, pregnancy, and motherhood content, hit Subscribe and ring the notification bell. 🔔✅ Check Catherine’s work on Instagram: @nourishandbloomdoula#NaturalChildbirth #BirthPreparation #PregnancyTips #motherhood #CatherineRoseBloom Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. -
Mariana Shafro: War, Motherhood, and the Camera Lens 02.10.2025 1sa 4dkFrom giving birth standing up to creating award-winning documentaries about the Ukrainian war, photographer and mother, Mariana Shafro, shares a raw, honest, and deeply inspiring look into her life.Mariana talks about reclaiming her energy after birth, running a “small corporation” at home, navigating motherhood during wartime, and building an international creative career. She opens up about natural birth, the chaos of raising children without extended family nearby, and the deep power of sisterhood.We also dive into how Mariana balances ambition and softness. From directing military documentaries to walking 20km a day for mental clarity. Plus: her life-changing meeting with Dr. Barbara Sturm, why she avoids modern food substitutes, and how to know what you’re meant to do in life.This is a conversation for every woman trying to build a beautiful life; while staying rooted in truth.📩 Share this with someone who needs to hear it.#motherhood #MarianaShafro #podcast #donotdisturbpodcast #ukraine Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. -
The Brutal Truth About Finding Love After 30: Danni Menzies 24.09.2025 52dkIn this episode of Do Not Disturb, we sit down with TV presenter and podcaster Danni Menzies for an unfiltered conversation about reinvention, dating, self-worth, resilience, and rebuilding life after trauma.Danni opens up about her journey from working for free while chasing her dream career, struggling with PTSD, anxiety, and depression, freezing her eggs, and learning the importance of choosing herself in relationships. She also shares her love for cars, adventure, and how she envisions her next chapter in life and career.Whether you’re navigating dating in your 30s, dealing with setbacks, or seeking motivation to reinvent yourself, this episode is packed with honesty, laughter, and inspiration.👉 Follow for more raw and empowering conversations that rarely happen, but really matter.📌 Chapters 00:00 – Why dating in your 30s feels like a disaster04:12 – Danni’s journey into TV presenting08:25 – Struggles: debt, rejection & anxiety12:40 – Reinvention, manifesting & small wins16:55 – Egg freezing & taking control of choices21:20 – Dating apps, London life & red flags26:05 – Self-worth, confidence & choosing yourself31:18 – Panic attacks, PTSD & recovery36:42 – Morning routine & self-help habits41:10 – Love of cars, adventures & new dreams46:08 – Stand-up comedy & learning to laugh again50:15 – Final reflections & advice for women#DanniMenzies #DoNotDisturbPodcast #DatingAfter30 #SelfWorth #podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. -
I Gave Up Everything for Motherhood - Here’s What I Learned: Arina Schneitter 17.09.2025 1sa 12dkIn this heart-opening episode of Do Not Disturb: The Inside Story, host Simona sits down with mother of three and entrepreneur Arina Schneitter. Arina shares her incredible journey. From finance and acting to founding a jewellery brand and fully embracing motherhood.💬 They dive deep into:Conscious parenting and why "just listening" changes everythingLetting go of external pressures to define your version of successThe invisible labour of motherhood and managing a household like a corporationNavigating postpartum anxiety and identity shiftsHow to raise children who are curious, grounded, and emotionally intelligentSchedules, emotional breakdowns, and parenting hacks that actually workTrusting your instincts in a world full of “expert” parenting adviceArina’s wisdom and emotional depth will resonate with any woman navigating motherhood, ambition, identity, or healing.Whether you’re a new mum, planning for kids, or redefining your life path, this episode is filled with insights that will stay with you long after listening.👉 Don’t forget to follow and share with a mother who needs to hear this today.#MotherhoodUnfiltered #DoNotDisturbPodcast #ConsciousParenting #ArinaSchneitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. -
How to Raise Resilient, Emotionally Smart Kids (and Heal Yourself Too): Natalie Costa 10.09.2025 1sa 34dkIn this transformative episode of Do Not Disturb, Simona Deifta is joined by parenting coach and Power Thoughts founder Natalie Costa to discuss what it really takes to raise emotionally resilient kids in today’s fast-paced world.From handling screen time to building confidence, emotional literacy, and setting compassionate yet firm boundaries; this episode is a must-listen for every modern parent navigating generational trauma and mental wellness.You'll learn:1️⃣ Why emotional regulation starts with YOU2️⃣ Tools to teach kids how to name and manage big feelings3️⃣ How to shift from punishment to connection4️⃣ Navigating screen time without constant power struggles 5️⃣ Building your child’s resilience in a pressure-filled world Whether you're a parent, step-parent, or just someone who cares deeply about the next generation - this one’s for you.🔗 Follow Natalie: @nataliecostacoaching📲 Follow Simona: @do.not.disturb.podcast#ConsciousParenting #EmotionalIntelligence #DoNotDisturbPodcast #RaisingResilientKids #ModernMotherhood Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. -
Fashion Is Broken: The Rule of Five That Can Change Your Life│Tiffanie Darke 03.09.2025 39dkFormer journalist, editor, and sustainable fashion advocate Tiffanie Darke joins us on Do Not Disturb to unpack the role fashion plays in identity, self-respect, and environmental impact. From her "Rule of Five" to closet audits and dressing through midlife changes, Tiffanie offers tangible tips on building a timeless, intentional wardrobe. Whether you’re overwhelmed by trends or seeking deeper meaning in what you wear, this conversation will inspire a shift toward conscious consumption and authentic self-expression.🎧 Don’t forget to like, follow, and share this episode with someone ready to step into their next style chapter.#SustainableFashion #DoNotDisturbPodcast #BuyLessBuyBetter #RuleOfFive #MidlifeStyle Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. -
Why We’re All Doing S*x Wrong: Kate Moyle 27.08.2025 1sa 20dkWhat if everything you’ve been taught about s*x is wrong? Want to find out what the NUMBER 1 s*x tool is? In this powerful episode, psychosexual therapist Kate Moyle joins Simona Deifta to discuss the link between mental health and s*x, how shame sabotages desire, and why self-pleasure is essential for intimacy. From s*x in long-term relationships and parenthood to breaking free of outdated sexual myths, this conversation is a must-hear for anyone looking to deepen connection, confidence, and pleasure. 💥Kate shares tips for reigniting your s*x life and navigating mismatched libidos. Whether you’re in a relationship, single, or on a journey of self-discovery, this episode will transform the way you think about sex and relationships.🎧 Listen now for honest, vulnerable, and empowering conversation.❤️ FOLLOW for more conversations that truly matter.📲 Follow us on Instagram @do.not.disturb.podcast#Intimacy #KateMoyle #DoNotDisturbPodcast #RelationshipTherapy #SexEducation Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. -
The Truth About Maternal Burnout No One Wants to Say Out Loud: Zoe Blaskey 20.08.2025 45dkIn this episode of Do Not Disturb, Zoe Blaskey, coach, speaker, and founder of Motherkind joins Do Not Disturb to unpack the emotional, mental, and spiritual transition that comes with motherhood.From redefining what burnout actually feels like, to learning how to complete the stress cycle, Zoe shares tools and truths every mother needs to hear. She explains why spa days aren't real self-care, how to create emotional connection with your child in just 9 golden minutes, and how to finally get on your own side.💬 Topics include:How motherhood redefines our identityWhy self-compassion is a survival skillBreaking generational patternsThe truth about maternal guilt and judgementBuilding resilience while letting go of perfectionism🎙 Listen now and send this to a mother who might be quietly struggling.🛒 Get Zoe’s book: A New Way to Thrive in a World of Endless Expectations🎧 Check out the Motherkind podcast📲 Follow us on IG: @do.not.disturb.podcast | @zoeblaskey#DoNotDisturbPodcast #MaternalBurnout #MotherhoodUnfiltered #ZoeBlaskey #SelfCompassion Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. -
Mandy Hickson: From Being Told Never, To Becoming The RAF’s First Female Tornado Pilot 13.08.2025 1sa 2dkWhat does it take to lead a combat mission as the first woman flying the Tornado GR4 on the front line? Mandy Hickson, ex-RAF fighter pilot and now a world-class keynote speaker, sits down to share her story. From breaking into the boys’ club of military aviation to being sh*t at in Iraq, and how she’s used those lessons to empower 100,000+ young women around the world.This episode is packed with raw honesty on:- Making high-pressure decisions in life & leadership- Resilience through rejection and failure- Motherhood, ambition & redefining success- Leading without ego, and balancing partnership with personal growth📘 Mandy's book: An Officer, Not a Gentleman📸 Follow Mandy: @mandyhicksonspeaker🎙️ Follow the show👉 Share this episode with someone who needs a reminder of their potential.#DoNotDisturbPodcast #MandyHickson #truestories #podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. -
The #1 Relationship Killer (And How to Stop It): Julie Menanno 06.08.2025 58dkMarriage and family therapist Julie Menanno joins Simona to explore how attachment theory can transform your relationship. From building emotional safety and breaking negative cycles, to navigating resentment after kids and protecting intimacy, Julie shares practical strategies from her book Secure Love. A must-listen for anyone wanting deeper connection and harmony at home.📖 Grab Julie’s book Secure Love.📲 Follow Julie on Instagram: @thesecurerelationship💬 If this resonated, please comment below. Like, share and subscribe to help us reach more people.🎙️ Host: @dndpodcast#DoNotDisturbPodcast #RelationshipAdvice #JulieMenanno #AttachmentTheory #SecureLove🎙 Do Not Disturb: The Inside Story Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. -
The Truth Women Need to Hear: "Perfectionism doesn’t translate to motherhood" | Anna Mathur 30.07.2025 50dk🎧 In this episode of *Do Not Disturb*, psychotherapist and bestselling author Anna Mathur joins us to dismantle the myth of the perfect mother and show why embracing your limits can be the most powerful thing you do.🌟 We talk nervous system regulation, invisible sacrifices, guilt cycles, boundaries, joy, and what it *really* means to be “good enough.”📘 Anna’s latest book *The Uncomfortable Truth* is out now.💬 If this resonated, please comment below. Like, share and subscribe to help us reach more people.🔗 Connect with Anna: @annamathur🎙️ Host: @dndpodcast#DoNotDisturbPodcast #Motherhood #MentalHealth #AnnaMathur Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
