Then & Now with Babatúndé and Leonie Aléshé

This week on Then and Now, Babatunde and Leonie dive into the hilarious, heartfelt, and often awkward world of parenting’s toughest moments – answering the wild questions kids love to ask. From “Can I say that word?” to “Where do babies come from?” the couple share honest conversations, cultural contrasts, and laugh-out-loud stories from their own parenting experiences. With their signature humour and warmth, they explore how to navigate language, growing up, faith, and family – all while raising two very curious kids. Whether it’s “lady gardens,” fart etiquette, or the chaos of football fandom, this episode is packed with relatable gems f...

This week on Then and Now, Babatunde and Leonie Aleshe dive into the wild world of modern parenting trends. From baby raves and nesting parties to house-moving “parties” and child-friendly beach clubs, they explore how millennial and Gen Z parents are redefining family fun. Expect big laughs as the couple weigh in on strobe lights for toddlers, assembling baby furniture with friends, and whether a DJ-less house move really counts as a party. As always, they share personal stories, sharp observations, and plenty of playful banter — all wrapped in a heartfelt reminder of how vital community is in parenting today.<

This week on Then and Now, we’re celebrating Father’s Day the only way we know how — with laughter, real talk, and a little chaos. Joining Babatunde and Leonie is comedian, broadcaster,  Eddie Kadi.

From proud dad moments to parenting flops, cultural clashes to soft parenting debates, nothing is off-limits. Expect hilarious stories, sharp perspectives, and a look at how fatherhood has evolved (and how much has stayed exactly the same).

Whether you’re a dad, have a dad, or are just trying to survive parenting — this one’s for you.

This week we’re talking about parenting in the cost of living crisis. The worries that come with rising shopping bills and some hacks to help pinch the pennies. Plus some nostalgic look backs at how it was when we were kids.

In this feel-good episode of Then and Now, Babatunde Aléshé and his wife Leonie chat all things half term—from juggling routines to keeping the kids entertained without breaking the bank.

They share their go-to activities, family traditions, and creative ways to make the most of time off school. From local trips and free days out to staying sane indoors (yes, screen time gets a mention), this episode is full of real-life gems for parents looking to keep it fun, affordable, and stress-free.

Whether you’re planning ahead or winging it week by week, this is the...

On this eye-opening episode of Then and Now, Babatunde Aléshé and his wife Leonie dive into the modern fears that come with raising children today—from the rise of AI to the realities of climate change.

With their signature honesty and warmth, they explore what it means to parent in a world that feels unpredictable and fast-moving. How do you prepare your kids for a future that’s still being written? What do you pass down when the rulebook keeps changing? And how do you find balance between protecting your children and empowering them?

It’s a raw...

On this episode of Then and Now, Babatunde Aléshé and his wife Leonie get real about the everyday (and not-so-everyday) decisions they make as parents—and how those choices shape their children in the long run.

From cultural values and discipline to emotional well-being, the couple reflect on their own upbringings, what they’ve carried forward, and what they’ve chosen to do differently. With honesty, warmth, and a touch of humour, they explore how parenting isn’t just about the “now,” but about planting seeds for the future.

A relatable, thought-provoking conversation for any parent trying t...

On the latest episode of Then and Now, Babatunde and Leonie Aleshe dive into the world of ‘sharenting’ — the tricky line between sharing family moments online and protecting your kids’ privacy. With warmth, humour, and real-life perspective, they unpack the rise of kids having their own YouTube channels, the pressures of parenting in the digital age, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. It’s an honest, relatable conversation for every modern parent navigating the online world.

Join Babatunde Aleshe and his wife, Leonie, in this engaging episode of their podcast as they dive into the exciting yet challenging journey of parenting teenagers! As they anticipate their children entering their teen years, they reflect on their own experiences growing up, comparing the unique challenges and freedoms they faced. Babatunde and Leonie will share their hopes, fears, and strategies for navigating this pivotal stage of life, while also discussing how the world has changed since their teenage years. Tune in for a candid conversation filled with nostalgia, laughter, and practical advice for embracing the teenage years with...

Join Babatunde Aleshe and his wife, Leonie, in this enlightening episode of their podcast as they discuss the essential topic of disciplining children. Drawing from their own experiences growing up, they’ll share heartfelt stories about the lessons they learned and the values instilled in them. Babatunde and Leonie explore effective discipline strategies, the importance of communication, and how their backgrounds influence their parenting style today. Tune in for valuable insights, candid reflections, and a dose of humor as they navigate the complexities of raising well-rounded children in today’s world!

In this episode, Babatunde and his wife, Leonie Aleshe, take a trip down memory lane as they compare their experiences with toddlers—then vs. now! From sleepless nights and tantrums to the adorable (and hilarious) moments that make it all worthwhile, they share the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Has parenting a toddler changed over the years, or are some things just universal? Tune in for plenty of laughter, real talk, and relatable parenting moments! 

Join Babatunde Aleshe and his wife, Leonie, in this special Easter episode of their podcast! They’ll dive into their beloved Easter traditions, share heartwarming memories, and discuss the significance of the holiday in their lives. From festive family gatherings to delicious recipes and fun activities, Babatunde and Leonie will inspire you to celebrate Easter with joy and togetherness. Tune in for a delightful conversation that blends humor, love, and the true spirit of Easter!

In this episode, Babatunde and his wife, Leonie Aleshe, tackle the topic of homework—then vs. now! From their own childhood struggles with times tables and handwriting to the modern-day battle of getting kids to focus, they share hilarious stories, parenting wins (and fails), and the surprising ways homework has changed over the years. Is it harder now, or were we just as dramatic back in the day? Tune in for laughs, nostalgia, and some real talk about raising school-age kids!

On this episode of their podcast, Babatunde and his wife, Leonie Aleshe, dive into the topic of age gaps between children. From the benefits of having kids close in age to the challenges of a bigger gap, they share their personal experiences, funny anecdotes, and honest thoughts on what works best for different families. Whether you’re planning for another baby or just curious about the dynamics, this conversation is full of laughter, love, and real talk. 

Join Babatunde and his wife, Leonie Aleshe, as they share heartfelt stories, laughter, and reflections on the importance of Mother’s Day in a special episode of their podcast. From celebrating the incredible mothers in their lives to discussing the joys and challenges of parenthood, this episode is filled with love, gratitude, and a few hilarious parenting moments. Tune in for an honest and uplifting conversation that honors mums everywhere! 

On their podcast, Babatunde Aleshe and his wife Leonie tackle the ever-relevant topic of screen time and the challenges of limiting children’s exposure to the internet. With Babatunde’s signature humor and Leonie’s practical parenting wisdom, they discuss the struggles of managing device use in a digital age, from battling endless YouTube binges to setting boundaries on social media. They explore the importance of balance, encouraging kids to engage in real-world activities while staying aware of online dangers. Through personal anecdotes and lighthearted debates, they offer relatable advice for parents trying to navigate screen time without constant tantru...

On their podcast, Babatunde Aleshe and his wife Leonie dive into the world of extracurricular activities and the importance of learning practical skills at school. With their signature humor and relatable parenting insights, they explore how clubs, sports, and creative pursuits shape a child’s confidence, social skills, and future opportunities. Babatunde shares his comedic take on the chaos of juggling after-school activities, while Leonie highlights the real benefits of kids developing skills beyond the classroom. From the struggles of early morning football practice to the joys of watching their child find a passion, their conversation is both entertaining an...

On their podcast, comedian Babatunde Aleshe and his wife Leonie dive into the world of school trips and PTA groups, sharing their hilarious and relatable experiences as parents. From the chaos of last-minute permission slips to the politics of PTA meetings, they offer an entertaining take on the highs and lows of school involvement. Babatunde brings his signature humor, while Leonie keeps things real with her practical insights, making for a lively discussion that any parent can relate to. Whether it’s chaperoning hyperactive kids on a museum trip or dodging committee responsibilities, their banter is both laugh-out-loud funny an...

Our convo today centres on childhood illnesses and the contrasting experiences of parenting across generations. We delve into the myriad of ailments that children encounter, particularly focusing on the nostalgic recollection of chickenpox, and the remedies that were employed in our respective upbringings. As we dissect the differences between the past and present, we examine the implications of dietary choices and the significance of wholesome nutrition in fortifying the immune system. Furthermore, we explore the profound impact of breastfeeding, which serves as a natural antibiotic, thereby enhancing the infant's immunity. Through this insightful exchange, we aim to foster a...

The salient point of this podcast episode centers on the complexities of establishing bedtime routines for children and the challenges faced by parents in this endeavor. We, Babatunde and Leonie Aleshe, engage in a candid discourse about our own experiences with parenting, particularly focusing on the arduous process of putting our children to sleep. We examine the differences in bedtime rituals from our own childhoods to the present day, highlighting the myriad methods employed to facilitate a smooth transition to sleep. The conversation delves into the emotional and physical toll of sleep deprivation on parents, emphasizing the necessity of...

The discourse revolves around the theme of romance and the complexities of celebrating Valentine's Day as parents. We explore the dichotomy between the romantic ideals held by one partner and the more pragmatic views of the other, delving into how their differing perceptions of love manifest in everyday life. The speakers articulate the significance of establishing romantic traditions, even amidst the challenges posed by parenthood and busy schedules. They emphasize that romance need not be extravagant; rather, it can flourish through simple gestures and shared moments at home. Ultimately, the episode serves as an insightful commentary on maintaining affection...

This podcast episode dives into the various parenting styles and how they impact family dynamics. Leonie and Baba explore styles such as authoritarian, authoritative, permissive, and uninvolved parenting, discussing their characteristics and implications. They reflect on their own parenting approaches, highlighting the importance of blending styles to effectively meet their children's needs. The conversation leads to personal anecdotes, illustrating how their upbringing has shaped their parenting philosophies today. With humor and sincerity, they emphasize the significance of being adaptable and learning continuously as parents in an ever-evolving landscape.

The latest episode of the Then and Now podcast dives into the evolving landscape of family fitness, a topic that resonates with many parents navigating the challenges of modern life. Leonie and Baba reflect on their own childhood experiences, contrasting them with the present where outdoor play has significantly diminished among children. Baba recalls how, as a child, fitness was an inherent part of life, stemming from playing outside, running around with friends, and engaging in spontaneous games. In stark contrast, today’s children often require structured activities to stay active, leading to a discussion about the necessity of in...

Navigating the complexities of family travel, Leonie and Baba dive deep into the joys and challenges of parenting on the go. They share personal anecdotes from their own experiences, highlighting the stark contrast between their childhood holidays and the realities of traveling with children today. With a candid approach, they discuss the overwhelming nature of packing, the logistical hurdles at airports, and the constant balancing act of ensuring that both parents and kids enjoy their vacations. Leonie reflects on her own lack of holiday experiences as a child, juxtaposing it with Baba's humorous take on the necessity of adult...

This podcast episode delves into the transformative journey of Leonie and Baba as they reflect on their ten years of marriage. They candidly discuss the significant shifts in their lives, from the challenges of early parenthood to the evolution of their careers. A central theme is the importance of creating a supportive and nurturing family environment, which has become their primary focus and purpose. Leonie shares her experience of starting a travel business that allowed her to achieve financial independence while being present for their children. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the value of maintaining a positive attitude and...

This week on the Then and Now podcast, Leonie and Baba delve into the concept of New Year's resolutions and the evolving nature of goal-setting in their lives as parents. They emphasize the importance of realistic expectations and the value of gradual progress over the pressure to achieve instant results. Leonie shares her reflections on how social media can influence perceptions of parenting, while Baba highlights the necessity of staying true to one's individual journey. They explore how they plan to instill a sense of goal-setting in their children, encouraging them to break down their aspirations into manageable steps...

This episode of the Then and Now podcast dives into the contrasting experiences of celebrating New Year's Eve, exploring the shift from church gatherings to more relaxed family celebrations. Leonie and Baba reflect on their childhood traditions, specifically how church services shaped their views on the new year, while also grappling with the pressures of modern celebrations influenced by social media. They discuss the importance of genuine connections and the desire for a more peaceful, meaningful way to welcome the new year, rather than succumbing to societal expectations. The conversation highlights the joy of being with family, enjoying good...

Join Leonie and Baba Tunde as they delve into the nostalgic and vibrant world of Christmas traditions in their latest podcast episode. The couple explores the contrasts between their childhood experiences and the joys of celebrating the holiday with their own children today. From grand meal preparations and festive family gatherings to the excitement of Christmas presents, they share heartfelt anecdotes that highlight the essence of family togetherness during the holiday season. Leonie reflects on the importance of food, not just as a meal but as a focal point that brings everyone together, while Baba Tunde humorously shares his...

This episode of the Then and Now podcast dives into the evolution of seasonal celebrations, particularly focusing on Christmas and other holiday traditions. Hosts Leonie and Baba reflect on their childhood experiences and how they differ from the vibrant and interactive celebrations they create for their own children today. They discuss the importance of representation during the holiday season, sharing their excitement about attending events like the Black Santa Experience. The conversation also touches on the pressures of modern parenting, including the infamous Elf on the Shelf phenomenon, and the significance of finding a balance between tradition and personal...

Leonie and Babatunde explore the evolution of shopping experiences from their childhood to the present day, emphasizing the importance of in-person shopping for teaching children essential life skills. They reminisce about the vibrant market culture of their youth, where the sights, sounds, and smells created a rich shopping experience that fostered community connections. The couple discusses the challenges of modern online shopping, particularly how it impacts their children's understanding of money management and product selection. They advocate for more hands-on shopping trips with their kids to instill valuable lessons about quality, value, and personal interaction. Ultimately, the conversation highlights...

Being a parent in general is FAR from easy but then add having to source child care into the mix and it can be CRAZY!

Building your village is important so you have people you can rely on around you. Baba and Leonie each look back on how they were raised and how that's influenced how they bring up their children.

This week the Aleshes reminisce on their experiences starting new schools and what is was like coming back after the holidays: who got tall and the time Baba was bullied over his new haircut. Have school politics changed for their kids? And when was it better then or now?

This week the Aleshes talk about their childhood friends and reveal what they really think of their children’s current peers. Delving into the memories of impromptu sleepovers and calling everyone “cousin” they decide when friendships were better, then or now.

Baba has started a vinyl collection. There's nothing better than zoning out to music but when was music better? When they were children or the music their children listen to.

Have the kids got it right these day with their crazy stand, or was it way better when we were young?

Babatunde and Leonie discuss the importance of toys growing up and how things have changed for children now.

Babatunde is living his childhood through their son and Leonie can't wait for their daughter to paint Baba's nails.

This episode is pure nostalgia!

Babatunde and Leonie chat through the fashion cycles. How they dress now compared to how kids and young adults dress now.

Back then, people tailored their own clothes,How will that impact their son's fashion choices moving forwards.

Baba and Leonie tackle the issue of kids parties.

It's easy to do too much. Do you expect other parents to pay their way? The whole subject is a minefield!

When were kids parties better? Then or now?

The Aléshés delve into schooling, street smarts and taking notes from important speeches.

The Aléshés discuss family mealtimes and what they grew up eating. Be prepared to be very hungry after this episode.