Kate Thornton, known for her work on BBC Radio 2 and as a television presenter, has opened up about the challenges and emotional turmoil she experiences as a single mother to her 17-year-old son, Ben. In a recent episode of her podcast, she describes how she feels she 'literally swallows tears' as she navigates the difficult landscape of parenting a teenager alone. Thornton emphasizes the importance of her relationship with her son, as well as the adjustments she is making in her personal and professional life to support him during this pivotal time.

Having separated from Ben's father, Darren Emerson, in 2011, Thornton reflects on her journey of raising Ben while managing her career. After initially working part-time on ITV's Loose Women to accommodate being a mother, she has now decided to shift her focus further, contemplating a move away from television work to delve into therapy. This significant career change signals a deeper examination of her priorities, driven by a desire to create a more balanced and supportive environment for her son during his transition into adulthood.

Thornton's discussions with fellow presenter Helen Skelton shed light on the shared experiences of women grappling with personal change and the complexities of parenting. As Thornton prepares for the next chapter in her life and Ben’s, her openness about her struggles offers a candid look at the realities of single parenting, the emotions tied to raising a teenager, and the need for support as families evolve.