Podcast
The Rosie and Roula Show
Hosted by Roula Abou Haidar and Rosie Burrows · EN
Unfiltered chats about personal growth gone wrong, stories about the weird things people say and do, and wild rants about the unwritten rules none of us signed up for. Plus plenty of advice that you never asked for, but we can't help but give.
We release episodes for you to listen, laugh and relate to every weekday for free.
28episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
249: Short version - Why We’re Pausing the Podcast (PTSD, Burnout & Being Real)
Apr 2300:08:35Tap to summarizeIn this raw and emotional episode of The Rosie & Roula Show, we share something deeply personal: we’re taking a break from the podcast.This isn’t the end — it’s a conscious pause.Behind the scenes, life has been heavy. From mental health struggles, burnout, PTSD diagnosis, therapy, and emotional overwhelm, we open up about what’s really been happening — and why continuing as we were is no longer sustainable.This episode is about:Choosing mental health over pressureRecognising burnout before it breaks youNavigating friendship, work, and expectationsThe reality of being independent podcastersLetting go of perfection and embracing honestyRosie shares her recent PTSD diagnosis and how it’s impacted her energy, sleep, and ability to show up. Roula opens up about intensive therapy, emotional load, and family burnout.Together, we reflect on what we’ve built, why it matters, and why stepping back might be the healthiest decision — for now.💬 This conversation is for anyone who feels overwhelmed, stretched too thin, or afraid to pause.--------------------☕️ Buy us a coffee!🎙️ Send us a voice message🛍️ Buy some Rosie and Roula merch!--------------------⭐️ Leave us a review▶️ Follow us on Instagram and TikTok🎞️ Subscribe to our YouTube channel--------------------🎧 Check out Roula's podcast🎧 Check out Rosie's podcast
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249: Long version - Why We’re Pausing the Podcast (PTSD, Burnout & Being Real)
Apr 2300:21:21Tap to summarizeIn this raw and emotional episode of The Rosie & Roula Show, we share something deeply personal: we’re taking a break from the podcast.This isn’t the end — it’s a conscious pause.Behind the scenes, life has been heavy. From mental health struggles, burnout, PTSD diagnosis, therapy, and emotional overwhelm, we open up about what’s really been happening — and why continuing as we were is no longer sustainable.This episode is about:Choosing mental health over pressureRecognising burnout before it breaks youNavigating friendship, work, and expectationsThe reality of being independent podcastersLetting go of perfection and embracing honestyRosie shares her recent PTSD diagnosis and how it’s impacted her energy, sleep, and ability to show up. Roula opens up about intensive therapy, emotional load, and family burnout.Together, we reflect on what we’ve built, why it matters, and why stepping back might be the healthiest decision — for now.💬 This conversation is for anyone who feels overwhelmed, stretched too thin, or afraid to pause.--------------------☕️ Buy us a coffee!🎙️ Send us a voice message🛍️ Buy some Rosie and Roula merch!--------------------⭐️ Leave us a review▶️ Follow us on Instagram and TikTok🎞️ Subscribe to our YouTube channel--------------------🎧 Check out Roula's podcast🎧 Check out Rosie's podcast
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248: Losing Your Virginity Is Outdated
Mar 2600:16:20Tap to summarizeWhat does “losing your virginity” actually mean… and why do we still say it like that?In this episode, Rosie and Roula unpack the language, pressure, and cultural weight behind the concept of virginity. From growing up in completely different environments, they experienced opposite sides of the same issue: one where not having sex was judged, and one where having sex was judged.They dive into how the word “virgin” is used across cultures and languages, and how it often implies that something is taken, lost, or done to someone — especially women.Roula shares personal experiences of how virginity was discussed growing up, including the expectations placed on women, the double standards between men and women, and the emotional impact of those conversations.Rosie questions the language itself: what are we actually “losing”? And why is so much value tied to something that isn’t even a physical object?They also explore how this ties into bigger themes like ownership of women’s bodies, societal expectations, and how outdated beliefs still show up today in subtle ways.This episode is honest, uncomfortable at times, and challenges a concept most people have never really questioned.Topics coveredWhy the phrase “losing your virginity” is problematicCultural differences and double standardsThe pressure placed on young women vs young menLanguage, ownership, and agencyVirginity as a social constructShame, judgment, and identityWhy it might be time to drop the word entirelyWhat does the word “virginity” mean to you — and do you think it still has a place in today’s world?--------------------☕️ Buy us a coffee!🎙️ Send us a voice message🛍️ Buy some Rosie and Roula merch!--------------------⭐️ Leave us a review▶️ Follow us on Instagram and TikTok🎞️ Subscribe to our YouTube channel--------------------🎧 Check out Roula's podcast🎧 Check out Rosie's podcast
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247: Post-Argument Productivity - Why Fights Make You Get Stuff Done
Mar 2400:08:26Tap to summarizeEver had a fight and suddenly felt like cleaning the entire house?In this episode, Roula shares what she calls “tragically funny” behaviour: after an argument with her partner, she becomes wildly productive. We’re talking deep cleaning, washing, gardening… all the things that have been sitting on the to-do list for weeks.Rosie relates in a different way, using physical movement like walking or getting out of the house to burn off the emotional energy. Together, they unpack what’s really going on in those post-argument moments.Is it anger? Adrenaline? Avoidance? Or just a socially acceptable way to channel frustration?Roula even admits her slightly unhinged (but very honest) confession: part of her sometimes wishes for an argument… just to get things done.This episode dives into how we process conflict, the different ways we release emotional tension, and why arguments might accidentally turn us into our most productive selves.Topics coveredWhy arguments can trigger sudden bursts of energyCleaning, walking and physical outlets for emotional releaseAvoidance vs productive copingHow different people process conflictThe link between adrenaline and productivityThat slightly chaotic urge to “rage clean”Wanting a fight… just to get your life togetherWhat do you do after an argument — shut down, talk it out, or suddenly become the most productive version of yourself?--------------------☕️ Buy us a coffee!🎙️ Send us a voice message🛍️ Buy some Rosie and Roula merch!--------------------⭐️ Leave us a review▶️ Follow us on Instagram and TikTok🎞️ Subscribe to our YouTube channel--------------------🎧 Check out Roula's podcast🎧 Check out Rosie's podcast
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246: Should Couples Sleep in Separate Bedrooms? The Truth About Sleep, Intimacy & Relationships
Mar 2200:10:59Tap to summarizeShould couples sleep in the same bed—or is it healthier to sleep apart?In this episode of The Rosie & Roula Show, we challenge one of society’s biggest relationship norms.Roula opens the conversation by wanting to normalize couples sleeping in separate bedrooms, sparking a powerful discussion about sleep quality, intimacy, societal expectations, and relationship myths.We explore how poor sleep, snoring, different routines, hot flashes, and mental rest can impact relationships—and why separate bedrooms might actually improve connection, attraction, and overall wellbeing.💡 Plus, we reference our earlier episode about “let’s meet for a glass of wine” and how certain habits (like alcohol and sleep disruption) are often normalized—just like sharing a bed.🔑 Topics Covered:Sleeping in separate bedrooms vs same bedRelationship myths & societal conditioningSleep quality and mental healthIntimacy, attraction & “inviting your partner in”Boundaries and communication in relationshipsWhy “normal” doesn’t always mean healthyCultural expectations around marriage & sleepHow habits like alcohol (from our glass of wine episode) affect rest✨ Key Takeaways:Sleeping separately ≠ unhealthy relationshipBetter sleep can improve connection & moodSociety normalizes things that don’t always serve usCommunication and boundaries matter more than traditionIntimacy can actually increase with space--------------------☕️ Buy us a coffee!🎙️ Send us a voice message🛍️ Buy some Rosie and Roula merch!--------------------⭐️ Leave us a review▶️ Follow us on Instagram and TikTok🎞️ Subscribe to our YouTube channel--------------------🎧 Check out Roula's podcast🎧 Check out Rosie's podcast
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245: A Glass of Wine, Really? Alcohol Culture, Addiction & What We Normalise
Mar 2000:19:00Tap to summarizeIs alcohol truly harmless — or just widely accepted?In Episode 245 of The Rosie & Roula Show, we dive into drinking culture, alcohol habits, and addiction, sparked by a real-life situation during flooding in Australia where people were asking one question: “Is the bottle shop open?”We explore:Why alcohol is so normalised in modern societyThe truth behind “just one glass of wine” cultureEmotional coping, addiction, and daily drinking habitsCultural differences in alcohol useWhy younger generations may be drinking lessThe impact of alcohol on sleep, health, and mental wellbeingRoula also references our previous episode about “meeting for a glass of wine” and questions whether this widely accepted habit is actually harmful.💡 Key Takeaways:Alcohol is often used to cope, numb, or escapeEven moderate drinking may impact health and sleepWhat’s considered “normal” may not be healthyAwareness is the first step to change your habits🎧 Listen now and decide for yourself:Is alcohol truly harmless — or just widely accepted?--------------------☕️ Buy us a coffee!🎙️ Send us a voice message🛍️ Buy some Rosie and Roula merch!--------------------⭐️ Leave us a review▶️ Follow us on Instagram and TikTok🎞️ Subscribe to our YouTube channel--------------------🎧 Check out Roula's podcast🎧 Check out Rosie's podcast
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244: Why Is English So Different? UK vs US vs Australia Accents, Slang & Spelling
Mar 1700:21:17Tap to summarizeIn this fun, honest, and unexpectedly deep episode, Rosie & Roula dive into a listener question that sparks a fascinating conversation about English accents, spelling differences, slang, and global communication.After receiving a voice message from Roula’s son, the hosts explore why English sounds so different across countries like the UK, the US, and Australia—and why that can be confusing (and sometimes frustrating!).They unpack:Why British vs American vs Australian English use different spelling (colour vs color, organise vs organize)How accents and pronunciation impact understanding—even between native speakersThe surprising differences in everyday words (boot vs trunk, bin vs trash can, thong vs G-string 👀)The challenges faced by non-native English speakers navigating mixed spelling and vocabularyWhy exposure to media (especially American TV) shapes how we think English “should” soundHow accents shift depending on environment, culture, and even who you're speaking toA personal story about identity, language, and how dialect connects to memory and belongingThis episode is equal parts hilarious and insightful, with real talk about language bias, communication struggles, and why there’s no “right” way to speak English—just different ways.✨ Whether you're a native speaker or learning English, this episode will change how you think about language forever.--------------------☕️ Buy us a coffee!🎙️ Send us a voice message🛍️ Buy some Rosie and Roula merch!--------------------⭐️ Leave us a review▶️ Follow us on Instagram and TikTok🎞️ Subscribe to our YouTube channel--------------------🎧 Check out Roula's podcast🎧 Check out Rosie's podcast
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243: Mental Rest vs Physical Rest: Why Are We Always Tired?
Mar 1500:14:47Tap to summarizeWhat does it really mean to feel rested?In Episode 243 of The Rosie & Roula Show, Rosie and Roula explore the difference between physical rest, mental rest, and emotional recovery. Rosie opens the conversation by sharing her long-term struggle with fatigue and the confusing experience of taking time off or sleeping — yet still feeling exhausted.Together they question common advice like “just rest” or “take a day off” and ask whether doing nothing actually restores energy.Roula shares a recent experience with hydro massage, breathwork, and guided relaxation, which left her feeling rested for two full days. The conversation then shifts to the deeper question of what true rest actually feels like, and whether activities like hiking, being in nature, or doing something joyful may restore us more than simply lying down.The episode also explores how mental overload, busy thoughts, and daily pressures prevent many people from truly resting — even when they stop working.Topics discussed• Mental rest vs physical rest• Chronic fatigue and feeling tired all the time• Why doing nothing doesn’t always feel restful• Breathwork and relaxation techniques• Hydro massage and nervous system recovery• Nature, hiking and restorative activities• The connection between joy and feeling restedKey takeawayRest is not always about doing nothing.Sometimes joy, movement, fresh air, and calming the mind are what truly restore our energy.🎧 Listen to The Rosie & Roula Show – Episode 243Available wherever you listen to podcasts.🌐 RosieandRoula.com--------------------☕️ Buy us a coffee!🎙️ Send us a voice message🛍️ Buy some Rosie and Roula merch!--------------------⭐️ Leave us a review▶️ Follow us on Instagram and TikTok🎞️ Subscribe to our YouTube channel--------------------🎧 Check out Roula's podcast🎧 Check out Rosie's podcast
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When One Partner Wants a Baby… And the Other Doesn’t | Ep. 242
Mar 500:17:12Tap to summarizeWhat happens when a couple wants completely different things about having children?In this episode of The Rosie & Roula Show, Rosie and Roula discuss the complicated reality of relationships when one partner wants a baby and the other does not.Roula shares a real-life story about a woman in her mid-40s who becomes pregnant while her partner feels he cannot become a father again. The conversation explores the emotional impact on both partners and raises an important question:How often do couples truly discuss whether they want children before it's too late?The episode also revisits themes discussed in earlier episodes, including:• the societal expectation that women should become mothers• the pressure women feel as they approach the end of their fertility window• the cultural tradition of men passing on their name to their children• why women often take a man’s surname after marriageRosie and Roula ask whether men may feel hidden pressure to become fathers, even when they are unsure.The conversation highlights why honesty about children, marriage and life goals should happen early in relationships — even on the first date.Because once a child enters the picture, the stakes become much higher. Topics in this episoderelationships and childrenwanting kids vs not wanting kidsbiological clock and motherhoodmen and fatherhood pressuredating conversations about childrenmarriage expectations and surnamescommunication in relationships Episodes mentioned:194: Marriage, Surnames, and Power – Conversations About Autonomy in Marriage24: The Big Question – Do You Want to Have Kids?--------------------☕️ Buy us a coffee!🎙️ Send us a voice message🛍️ Buy some Rosie and Roula merch!--------------------⭐️ Leave us a review▶️ Follow us on Instagram and TikTok🎞️ Subscribe to our YouTube channel--------------------🎧 Check out Roula's podcast🎧 Check out Rosie's podcast
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241: Women Fixing Cars? Breaking Gender Roles & Why Diversity in Jobs Matters
Mar 300:22:24Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Rosie and Roula Show, we explore gender stereotypes, women in male-dominated industries, and why diversity in jobs matters more than ever. Rosie was dealing with yet another mechanical issue in her van — a van she has been fixing herself for over a year.That’s when the topic shifted.Why are there so few female mechanics?Why are women often dismissed when it comes to fixing cars or working in technical trades? And what happens when girls never see women in these roles growing up?We talk about:Women fixing cars and becoming mechanicsBeing dismissed in male-dominated spacesGender conditioning in schoolsWhy boys and girls need diverse role modelsFemale truck drivers and pilotsMen in nursing and childcareTrust, suspicion, and workplace stereotypesTeaching our daughters practical life skillsHow necessity can unlock hidden talentThis episode is not about blaming men.It’s about questioning the system.What opportunities were we never shown?What careers never even crossed our minds?And what would change if we raised children with broader possibilities?If you’ve ever felt underestimated because of your gender — this one is for you.🎧 Listen now and join the conversation.--------------------☕️ Buy us a coffee!🎙️ Send us a voice message🛍️ Buy some Rosie and Roula merch!--------------------⭐️ Leave us a review▶️ Follow us on Instagram and TikTok🎞️ Subscribe to our YouTube channel--------------------🎧 Check out Roula's podcast🎧 Check out Rosie's podcast
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