What It's Really Like To Be A Wiggle + Testing Viral Squishy Toys with Purple Wiggle John Pearce

Mon, 07 Sep 2026 17:15:00 +0000

In this premiere episode of The Parenting Police, Sean Szeps is joined by John Pearce — otherwise known as the Purple Wiggle, and dad to Henry — to discuss the toys, technology and parenting battles that are shaping childhood in 2026.

John opens up about the parenting rules he and his wife Jess thought they would never break, including their dream of a screen-free, Montessori-style childhood, and how quickly those plans can disappear when you're trying to keep a toddler entertained.

The conversation also dives into Toy Story 5 and its surprisingly powerful message about children, technology and the importance of play. Sean shares how watching the movie actually prompted his own children to rethink their screen habits and start playing with their toys again.

And then Sean and John investigate the viral squishy and fidget toys taking over Australian schools — from mystery dumplings and butter sticks to giant squishy cheese and tiny jelly cubes. Which ones are worth buying, and which ones belong firmly in the bin?

Plus, John talks about how becoming a dad has changed him as a performer, touring internationally with his young family, what it's like watching his son recognise him as Big Strong John from The Wiggles, and being recognised in public.

Join the conversation! Add #TheParentingPolice to your social post.

LINKS :

Check out The Wiggles’ latest music here
Don't miss The Wiggles' Sparkle! BIG SHOW National Arena Tour
Follow John (@johnpearce) on Instagram
Follow Purple Wiggle John (@john_wiggle) on Instagram
Follow The Wiggles (@thewiggles) on Instagram

MORE FROM SEAN SZEPS:

Watch The Parenting Police on YouTube
Follow Sean (@seanszeps) on Instagram
Like Sean on Facebook

CREDITS:

Host: Sean Szeps
Guest: John Pearce (Purple Wiggle)
Video Producer/Editor: Aidan Parkes
Audio Producer: Adrian Walton
Theme song co-written and produced by Josh Pyke
Executive Producer: Damien Haffenden
Managing Producer: Ceci Herbert
Follow @novapodcastsofficial on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind-the-scenes content

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Introducing: The Parenting Police

Wed, 02 Sep 2026 22:37:21 +0000

The Parenting Police is a new podcast where Sean Szeps investigates the constant flood of toys, shows, trends and advice thrown at modern families and decides what's worth your time and money.

Each week, a celebrity parent helps Sean review the latest toys and fads to see if they stack up.

Genuinely useful advice, always a little silly, and never any bullsh**.

"We're here to protect and serve… your sanity."

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.