Podcast · Learning

The Ella Era

by Pivotal Connections · English · Learning

New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 45 min
Latest: 5 Oct 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

5 Oct 2026 · 46 minNew

Postpartum Identity, Working Mum Guilt & Asking for Help

I went back to work six weeks after giving birth. Now my daughter is nearly one, she’s starting daycare, and I’m feeling guilty, relieved and excited all at once. In this solo episode, I’m talking about working mum guilt, the hard conversations my husband and I have had, and why a TikTok about missing our Bali nanny brought out so much judgement. I’m also sharing how I’m feeling ten months postpartum and what it’s been like trying to make room for work, motherhood and myself. ❤️ 00:00 A long overdue solo catch-up 03:23 The dream I wrote down six years ago 07:37 My daughter is nearly one…

Play episode WhatsApp Download

Earlier episodes 29 most recent

29 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 5 min

Alex Fevola on Grief, a Public Affair and Giving Her Marriage Another Chance

You knew Alex Fevola’s name. But how much of her story did you really know? Alex joins me to talk about losing Mia’s father just four weeks after giving birth — and the medical emergency that nearly took her life that same day. We also talk about raising her four daughters, living through a very public affair, and why she and Brendan found their way back to each other after divorcing. This is an honest conversation about grief, motherhood, betrayal and finding the strength to begin again. ❤️ 00:00 Meet Alex Fevola 04:41 Losing Mia’s Father 08:19 The Day Alex Nearly Died 13:20 Grieving While…
24 Sep 2026 · 46 min

We Never Thought We’d Speak Again | Part 2

You heard how it all fell apart. Now, we’re talking about what brought us back together. Domenica Calarco joins me for Part 2 — and the final chapter — of the conversation we’ve waited over two years to have. We open up about the Mother’s Day message that changed everything, discovering we were pregnant at the same time, becoming mums and finding our way back to one another. We also speak honestly about pregnancy, separation, solo motherhood, online judgement and the loneliness that no one warns you about. After everything that happened, this is us sitting together for one last time — ready…
22 Sep 2026 · 1 hr

What Really Happened? Sit With Us for One Last Time | Part 1

You saw the headlines. You heard the rumours. Now, we’re finally having the conversation. Domenica Calarco joins me for Part 1 of a conversation we’ve put off for over two years. From becoming best friends on MAFS to building Sit With Us, we shared so much of our lives online. But when our podcast and friendship fell apart, there was so much we didn’t know how to explain. This is an emotional conversation about friendship, regret and what really happened behind the headlines. And if you think this is the whole story… there’s more we need to tell you. Part 2 drops this Thursday. ❤️ 00:00 The…
27 Jul 2026 · 26 min

That’s a Wrap, Angels! See You Soon 😉

In this raw and vulnerable episode, I open up about the unfiltered reality of motherhood burnout, the mental fatigue of balancing work with baby Pia, and the power of giving yourself grace. I'm joined mic-side by my producer, Emilia, to reflect on the hard work, personal growth, and standout guest moments that defined The Ella Era over the past year. My socialsINSTAGRAM instagram.com/ellamaydinginstagram.com/ellaerapodcastTIKTOK tiktok.com/@emaydingWEBSITE ellamayding.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
20 Jul 2026 · 53 min

Bec Zacharia: MAFS Cast News, Snatched Waists, and Exposing the Last Messages From Danny

Welcome back to another completely unfiltered episode of The Ella Era! You all know this podcast has always been about going way deeper than the reality TV headlines, and this week I’m sitting down with Bec Zacharia to uncover the raw, messy truth about life after the cameras stopped rolling. We dive into how she is navigating therapy and body dysmorphia today. Bec even pulls out her phone to read the exact, final text messages exchanged with her ex Danny, exposing the dramatic breaking point of their relationship once and for all. We also tackle the internet-breaking news surrounding her…
13 Jul 2026 · 46 min

Tilly Whitfeld’s surgical regrets, traumatic birth story and postpartum darkness

This might be one of my favourite chats to date for just how raw and real this week’s guest, Tilly Whitfeld was. We dive deep into her shocking cosmetic regrets, from getting veneers at 18 and suffering temporary blindness during a DIY freckle disaster, to surviving toxic Breast Implant Illness and navigating a miracle pregnancy following a devastating infertility diagnosis. She also opens up completely about a traumatic emergency C-section where she fell off the operating table mid-labor, her struggles with eating disorders, and navigating severe postpartum depression and intrusive thoughts…
6 Jul 2026 · 44 min

MAFS Star David Momoh Breaks Silence on THAT Shocking Final Vows Walkout! 💥

In this highly anticipated episode, I sit down with one of the most quietly compelling contestants from Married at First Sight, David Momoh. From walking out of his final vows before Alissa could even finish her speech, to selling his MAFS wedding ring on Facebook Marketplace, no topic is off-limits. David drops truth bombs on hiding in the bathroom with Scott, to what it's really like to maintain your faith in "the depths of hell," and how his dating pool quadrupled overnight._________________________________________________________________________________ David's socialsINSTA…
29 Jun 2026 · 41 min

“Sometimes the videos run off hate” OnlyFans Star, Lily Phillips on building a platform

Welcome back to the Ella Era! In this episode, I sit down with the talk of the town: Lily Phillips, Only Fans headliner and breakout star of Stan’s brand-new hit reality docudrama, Turned On: Dirty Sexy Money. We dive headfirst into the reality TV chaos, the mental gymnastics of on-screen arguments, and why Lily actually welcomes internet trolls for her business algorithm. Plus, Lily shares the wildly bizarre behind-the-scenes details of her custom requests- including what producers made her do for that infamous "cake-sitting” scene. Finally, Lily reveals a massive personal shift in 2026:…
22 Jun 2026 · 34 min

The Physiological Cost of Going Viral - Dr Justin Coulson explains

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Australia’s most trusted parenting expert, author, and psychologist, Dr. Justin Coulson. He breaks down the terrifying neurobiology of public scrutiny and trolling, explaining why high emotions equal low intelligence- and why your brain literally starves itself of oxygen when you’re under online attack. Finally, we dive into the digital battleground our kids are facing. As a dad of six daughters, Justin delivers some hard-hitting, candid truths about the shockingly early age Australian kids are being exposed to violent online pornography. You’ll hear Julie…
15 Jun 2026 · 56 min

Lucinda Light on all the trips she's gone on; Ayahuasca and otherwise ✨

From being rejected daily on reality TV to becoming a global sensation, Lucinda Light is the breath of fresh air we all needed. In this deeply candid (and hilariously witty) episode, Lucinda sits down to spill the tea on her life before, during, and after Married at First Sight Australia and her experience in the UK on Celebs Go Dating._____________________________________________________________________________ Lucinda's socialsINSTA - instagram.com/lucindaslightWEBSITE - lucindalight.com/My socialsINSTAGRAM instagram.com/ellamaydinginstagram.com/ellaerapodcastTIKTOK…
8 Jun 2026 · 43 min

The Difference Between Choking and Gagging Every Parent Needs to Know! 🚨

This episode was shot LIVE episode from the brand-new Baby Bunting Mentone store. I, with my live audience talk about the things I wish I knew I needed when I was pregnant (and which things I didn’t). I’m joined by leading pediatric nutritionist, Abby McClennan to demystify the terrifying world of transitioning to solids. If you are terrified of choking, confused by the "mum community" backlash on TikTok, or don’t know your purees from your iron-rich finger foods, this episode is your ultimate no-BS guide. This episode is sponsored by Baby Bunting for their June Storktake Sale. Shop…
3 Jun 2026 · 27 min

The Reality of Reality TV: Stalkers, Death Threats & Last-Minute Cancellations

I tackle the topic of the reality of Reality TV and online bullying, it's a topic that has been weighing heavily on my chest all week. Triggered by back-to-back, last-minute guest cancellations from reality TV personalities who are simply "not okay," I strip back the glitz of instant celebrity to expose the brutal mental health toll of online life. From cyberbullying and toxic "pile-ons" to the chilling reality of death threats, I unpack the blurred line between true public accountability and outright cruelty. She gets deeply personal, opening up about her own battles with defamatory TikTok…
26 May 2026 · 55 min

Growing Up Fevola: Mia Fevola on the things she never planned to speak about publicly

In this raw episode, I sit down with model and content creator Mia Fevola. Growing up in the spotlight as the daughter of a controversial AFL icon, Mia opens up about bonding over losing our fathers as babies, navigating family addiction, and her mother’s incredible strength. We also discuss the childhood memories her brain blocked out, the breathtaking moment her time on I'm a Celebrity... came true, the impact of trolls and she clears the air on those viral Robert Irwin dating rumors. ____________________________________________________________________________ Her socials INSTA…
18 May 2026 · 53 min

"He Let Bec Take the Fall" – Rachel Gilmore's Last Say on MAFS 'FB Gate'

Welcome back to the Ella Era! In this explosive episode, we are sitting down with Married at First Sight fan-favorite Rachel Gilmore, and she is holding absolutely nothing back. After capturing the hearts of the nation as the relatable 9-to-5 corporate girly, Rachel opens up about the jarring reality of overnight fame, navigating the dating world after 16 years of being single, and the real reason she and Steven are no longer on speaking terms. _______________________________________________________________________________ HER SOCIALS INSTA instagram.com/rachlea_x/ MY SOCIALS INSTAGRAM:…
12 May 2026 · 45 min

Creatine, Collagen & a supplement you've never heard of: The 2026 Supplement Guide

Are you still afraid of Creatine? In this episode I get Melbourne’s leading naturopath back on Lucas Aoun (Ergogenic Health) to cut through the noise. We’re talking about why every woman should be on Creatine, the reality of "bulking" myths, and why buying better salt might actually be worth it. From peptide trends to the "Anti-Aging" amino acid you’ve never heard of, this is your blueprint for peak performance in 2026. ________________________________________________________________ HIS SOCIALS INSTA instagram.com/ergogenic_health/YOUTUBE youtube.com/c/boostyourbiologyWEBSITE…
4 May 2026 · 40 min

Athens, Exes, and AI: Jamie’s Next Big Chapter

In this episode, the incredible Jamie Marinos returns to the podcast for her and as always, she’s not holding back. From the shocking revelation that her ex-husband is appearing on Netflix’s Perfect Match to her major life decision to move to Athens, Greece, Jamie opens up about following her intuition in her major move and life. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
30 Apr 2026 · 37 min

BEYOND THE GRAM: Panic Attack, Mum-Guilt, A Day in My Life

This week, it’s just you and me. I’m stripping it all back to talk about the reality of being a self-managed working mum. From the terrifying panic attack I had before my first in person event to how I'm keeping all the plates in the air, we’re diving deep. Plus, I answer your most-asked questions: Why did I stop breastfeeding? Is screen time actually a "no-go" for Pia? And how am I really doing with the post-baby relationship juggle? Grab a coffee and let’s catch up. _______________________________________________________________________________ My socialsINSTAGRAM…
27 Apr 2026 · 49 min

MAFS Skit Queen, Katie Lamb on who makes perfect comedy fodder and the cast mate she avoids

You’ve seen her hilarious reenactments all over your FYP, and she’s bringing that energy to the mic. This week, I sat down with Katie Lamb, the voice of Triple M Perth and the genius behind those spot-on MAFS skits. We dive deep into the "unhinged" behavior of the latest season, Katie explains why certain contestants make for the perfect comedy fodder and how she manages to find humor in even the most "vile" situations. _____________________________________________________________________________ Her socials INSTA instagram.com/katielamb929/TIKTOK tiktok.com/@katielamb929 My socialsINSTAGRAM…
20 Apr 2026 · 42 min

“Manhood is Hard to Attain, Easy to Lose”: Luke Bateman on the $1M Rock Bottom and Finding His Way Out

This week’s guest is perhaps the most perfectly fitted to a show about ‘eras’ ever. From the high-pressure stadium lights of the NRL to the rose ceremonies of The Bachelor, to Book-Toker, podcaster and most recently, a top-three finish in the jungle, Luke Bateman has lived many lives. But beneath the "Alpha" athlete exterior, Luke was a boy who hid his love for fantasy novels in locker room toilets and a man who fought a debilitating, million-dollar gambling addiction. Luke shares how he overcame all of that and the path he’s now on.…
16 Apr 2026 · 47 min

"Chris Got a Good Edit": MAFS Sam discusses the red flags and supporting Bec

This week we’re hearing the other side of the story. After our explosive chat with Chris earlier this week, his other half, Sam Stanton, joins us to set the record straight. Sam, the Adelaide gym owner, and one half of MAFS 2026’s first gay intruder couple. While their wedding looked like a fairytale, the honeymoon phase didn't last long. Today, Sam opens up about the "slow burn" that frustrated Chris, the red flags he saw on the very first morning, and why he felt he had to bring a journal to the dinner table. We also discuss his support of Bec throughout the season and now after.…
13 Apr 2026 · 41 min

MAFS Chris Tells All: Getting married four days after the call and ALL the unshown footage

In this explosive episode, MAFS Chris joins me to peel back the curtain on what wasn't shown that went down between him and Sam. From the shock of being called to get married with only a four-day turnaround to the heartbreak of two failed surrogacy attempts, Chris leaves nothing off the table. He reveals the crucial unseen footage that changed the context of his "defensive" behavior, the truth behind the bonfire breakup, and the regrets he carries regarding his friendship with the season's "arch-nemesis," Gia. This is the therapy session we both desperately needed.…
8 Apr 2026 · 15 min

Shocked by Danny's response! Let's MAFS Finale recap

I HAD to jump on the mic and give you my thoughts after that finale!! I was shook _______________________________________________________________________ My socials INSTAGRAM instagram.com/ellamayding instagram.com/ellaerapodcast TIKTOK tiktok.com/@emayding WEBSITE ellamayding.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6 Apr 2026 · 39 min

Are peptides killing passion? Understanding peptides with naturopath, Lucas Aoun

This week I’m talking peptides again. I promised I would get a peptide ‘guru’ to explain more about them. I’m joined by certified naturopath and biohacking expert Lucas Aoun (founder of Ergogenic Health) to pull back the curtain on the industry. While influencers and celebrities are "glowing" on camera, Lucas reveals the good, bad and the interesting about the many trending peptides we’re hearing about online. We move beyond the TGA warnings to discuss the science of human optimization. ________________________________________________________________ HIS SOCIALS INSTA…
30 Mar 2026 · 48 min

“He never even unpacked”: Stephanie Marshall reveals all about her MAFS marriage to Tyson

This week, I sat down with this season's MAFS contestant, Stephanie Marshall, the real estate powerhouse who survived one of the most polarizing matches in MAFS history with groom, Tyson. Stephanie tells us about the red flags we didn't see, the drama at reunion and the new love she found once the cameras stopped rolling. _________________________________________________________________ HER SOCIALS INSTA instagram.com/stephaniekatemarshall/ MY SOCIALS INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/ellamayding PODCAST IG: instagram.com/ellaerapodcast TIKTOK: tiktok.com/@emayding WEBSITE: ellamayding.com.au See…
23 Mar 2026 · 42 min

"The Internet Is Silencing Our Intuition": Paediatrician, Dr Golly explains away parents' biggest struggles

Whether you ARE a parent or know a parent, this common sense approach will give guidance. This week, renowned Pediatrician and author, Dr. Golly pulls back the curtain on how to manage some of the trickiest parts of parenting by leaning into biological truths of human development. From debunking viral "regression" myths to explaining why we were never meant to raise children in isolation, this is essential listening for everyone. What if the hardest parts of raising a child aren't actually "natural" but a result of how we live today?…
19 Mar 2026 · 40 min

MAFS, Julia breaks down the “blatant lies” and finding new love

A bonus episode for your weekend! I am joined by current MAFS bride, Julia Vogl, for a conversation that is as unfiltered as it gets. Julia isn't holding back as she breaks down the "blatant lies" shown on screen, including what really happened with that infamous anniversary letter. Julia also opens up about Grayson's "hot-headed" and "abrasive" behaviour that was left on the cutting room floor and why she feels her character was "obliterated" and why the show’s portrayal of her sexuality was "misunderstood". ______________________________________________________________ HER SOCIALS INSTA…
16 Mar 2026 · 50 min

The Truth Behind the Headlines: Jamie on Dave’s "Robot" Act and That Date with Luke

This week we are joined by the unfiltered fan-fave Jamie Marinos to unpack the time that has passed since her season of MAFS, what she’s been up to and her plans for the future. We’re diving deep into the headlines, from the shocking off-camera language used by Clint to the trauma-bond romance with Elliot. She pulls back the curtain on the "blindside" that fooled everyone, plus, Jamie addresses those viral photos with Farmer Luke. From surviving the "corporate hustle" to her upcoming move to Athens, Jamie proves why she’s still the most authentic voice in the experiment.…
9 Mar 2026 · 46 min

Getting criticised for returning to work postpartum with Abbey Holmes

This week we are joined by the absolute powerhouse that is Abbey Holmes. I sat down with her the week before footy was back to chat about the juggle of being a sports broadcasting icon and a new mum. I asked her about the backlash she got last year coming back to work (and the support) and about THAT kiss on the cheek with Lachie Neale.This episode is for anyone trying to find their balance, chase their version of greatness, and ignore the noise along the way. _________________________________________________Ella’s Socials INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/ellamayding PODCAST IG:…
2 Mar 2026 · 45 min

Life After the Experiment: Luke Fourniotis on the Mental Toll of MAFS

Fresh off his departure from Season 13 of Married at First Sight, Luke Fourniotis joins the podcast to share his raw and honest experience from the experiment. Just 24 hours after his final episode aired, Luke reflects on the relief of it being over and the difficulty of watching the season back - from seeing the things said behind his back His socials INSTA - instagram.com/lukefourn __________________________________________________________________ My socials INSTAGRAM instagram.com/ellamayding instagram.com/ellaerapodcast TIKTOK tiktok.com/@emayding WEBSITE ellamayding.com.au See…

About The Ella Era

Welcome to The Ella Era. Your host, Ella Ding has been working on this era she's so excited to help you find YOUR era. She'll be bringing you raw, unfiltered conversations with incredible people that she's inspired by who have stories to tell. She's always evolving, trying new trends, seeing what sticks … and you’re coming along for that ride too. Can’t wait to see you in your best era. INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/ellamayding TIKTOK: tiktok.com/@emayding WEBSITE: ellamayding.com.au PARTNERSHIPS: klaudia@pivotalconversations.ai

The Ella Era is a English learning podcast from Pivotal Connections. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: Pivotal Connections
Language: English
Category: Learning
New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 45 min
Latest episode: 5 Oct 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1814747391

RSS feed Apple Podcasts

More English learning 6

Take it with you

The Melo app keeps playing with the screen off, works in the car and on your watch, wakes you to your station, and browses the whole catalogue offline. Free, no ads, no account.