Today’s guest is someone your kids will absolutely know… and chances are, you do too.

Dr Emma Watkins, also known as Emma Memma (and of course, the first female Yellow Wiggle) joins Sally Stanton for a fun, insightful and surprisingly moving chat about life on the road as a performer, her favourite childhood holidays, and what really connects with children all over the world.

From performing in over 40 cities with over 150 shows, to travelling with a small team, Emma shares what it actually takes to bring a children’s production to life on tour and how she (and her sister Hayley) keep things running smoothly along the way.

We talk packing hacks, colour-coded suitcases, life on tour buses, and the reality of travelling internationally with a full production. Plus, Emma opens up about her time on The Amazing Race, her tour life in the Wiggles, and how her journey from ballet dancer to children’s entertainer (and now Doctor!) shaped everything she does today.

But what makes Emma Memma truly special is what’s happening beneath the surface.

Her shows beautifully integrate music, movement and sign language, creating a space where all children, including those who are deaf or hard of hearing, can connect, learn and feel included. It’s thoughtful, intentional and incredibly powerful.

You’ll also hear how much she LOVES chocolate!

Plus, an extra fun Kids’ Corner featuring questions from mini travellers and a few very sweet moments along the way.

🎧 Don’t miss Thursday’s bonus episode, where Emma dives deeper into sign language, working with deaf performers, and how her shows create meaningful connections for children all over the world

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Emma Watkins

04:21 Life on Tour with Emma Memma

08:00 Experiences on The Amazing Race

12:21 Cultural Experiences in India

15:40 Life on a Tour Bus

19:01 Connecting with Local Communities

20:39 Life in the Southern Highlands

22:41 The Joy of Touring

24:10 Managing a Touring Team

25:33 The Essence of Emma Memma

27:50 The Roots of Sign Language Passion

29:30 Universal Language in Performance

31:35 Engaging Children Through Performance

34:09 The Evolution of Emma Memma

36:18 What Lights Up Children?

38:32 Supporting Parents and Educators

39:10 Collaborations with Iconic Brands

42:12 Kids Corner: Childhood Memories

47:36 Future Adventures and Travel Dreams

49:18 Rapid Fire Questions and Fun Facts

Resources

Emma Memma

Emma Memma Jungle Picnic Tour

Connect

Thank you so much for listening.

Please feel free to reach out with any questions via

• https://www.instagram.com/sallynanamis/
• https://www.instagram.com/snacksandsuitcasespodcast/
• Snacks and Suitcases Facebook Page
• Email: snacksandsuitcasespodcast@gmail.com

If you're enjoying the show, make sure you’re following so you never miss an episode especially if you’ve got a family trip or road trip coming up.

And if this episode made you smile, share it with another parent who’s travelling with kids (or whose kids are obsessed with Emma Memma!).

AND... Don't forget your snacks!