Working Mumma

Overcoming Guilt with Self-Care and 'Me Time' Strategies

The topic of 'me time' for working mums is important. Discover why carving out moments for yourself is essential for your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. This episode shares practical tips on managing your time, overcoming guilt, and building a sustainable 'me time' routine.
Whether you’re struggling to find a few quiet minutes in your busy day or feeling guilty about prioritizing yourself, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement.
Tune in to learn how 'me time' can help you become a more balanced, energized, and happy mum.
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NEXT STEPS:
Let's connect on LinkedIn 
Let's connect on Instagram @workingmummacommunity
Join the free Working Mumma Community
Get your free 'How to share the mental load' checklist workingmumma.com.au/mental-load/

Navigating Breastfeeding and Career: Return to Work Tips with Sarah Thijs-Smit

Are you about to return to work and still breastfeeding and wondering how you will navigate this part of the transition? This episode will help you navigate breastfeeding and return to work. 
I speak with lactation consultant, Sarah Thijs-Smit, who shares great tips, strategies, and practical advice to help you maintain breastfeeding and return to work after maternity leave. 
It is important to do what works for you and your child, and everyone has different circumstances and preferences when it comes to feeding and pumping. What is important is that you and your child are happy with your situation.
Please know that in Australia, there are requirements for all organisations to provide a suitable space for pumping and if required breastfeeding while you are in the office. Here are some link to support you and give you additional information:
RES-Breastfeeding and Work - Your rights at work
Australian Breastfeeding Association - Pumping at work - what do I need? resource
 
Connect with Sarah via Instagram @thebreasthelp
 
Connect with Carina and Working Mumma
Follow Working Mumma on Instagram @workingmummacommuity for regular inspiration and tips on working mum life or connect with Carina on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/carina-obrien. 
 

Redefining Gender Roles at Home and Work: Mark's Journey

I chat with Mark Morris, a husband, father, and advocate for equity and inclusion with a special interest in gender equality. 
Mark shares his personal commitment to social justice and gender equality, highlighting his decision to take his wife’s surname and his active efforts to promote fairness in the workplace and at home.
Mark passionately speaks about the importance of challenging gender stereotypes from a young age, sharing insights on societal pressures, the impact of early messaging on children, and what we can do to change the perceptions.
We discuss the importance of having blunt, in-your-face conversations about gender biases to call out bad behaviour, and the need for more visible advocacy in public spaces, from billboards to social media.
Don't miss this episode if you’re passionate about making a tangible difference in gender equality. Mark’s practical suggestions and hopeful outlook will inspire you to take small yet impactful steps towards a more balanced and fair society.
How to Connect with Mark:
LinkedIn: Mark Morris
Email: mark@mark-morris.me
Connect with Carina and Working Mumma
Follow us on Instagram @workingmummacommuity for regular inspiration and tips on working mum life or connect with Carina on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/carina-obrien. 
Join the Working Mumma Village and find your community of support to help you navigate the juggle of work/mum life 

How to Navigate Your Return to Work After Parental Leave

Returning to work after maternity leave can be both exciting and daunting. It is important to acknowledge that your return to work will be a transition over several months. Preparing for this transition mentally, emotionally, and physically over some time helps set yourself up for success. 
In this episode, I explore practical tips and insights to help you navigate this significant change with confidence and ease, to help you transition from parental leave back to work as smoothly as possible.
From managing mum guilt to defining your "why," and communicating effectively with your employer, we cover all the essential aspects of preparing for your return to work.
 
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NEXT STEPS:
Let's connect on LinkedIn 
Let's connect on Instagram @workingmummacommunity
Get your free 'How to share the mental load' checklist workingmumma.com.au/mental-load/

Improving Gender Equality: Challenging Mental Load Stereotypes with Maja Paleka

Have you considered about the nuances of the mental load and its impact on gender equality? I chat with Maja Paleka, a mum of 2 and consultant, speaker, and advisor and previously held leadership roles in engineering, sales and operations across three continents.
We delve into practical strategies for challenging stereotypes and improving communication within families to achieve a more balanced division of labor, while also discussing tips for managing flexible work arrangements.
Topics we spoke about included: 
* Defining the mental load and how it contributes to gender inequality, both at home and in the workplace, affecting women's careers and overall well-being.
* The importance of effective communication and the use of systems and habits to reduce decision points and streamline family responsibilities.
* Tips for managing flexible work arrangements, including setting boundaries, using technology to stay organized, and communicating with employers and colleagues.
* The need to redefine relationships as a balance of deep care and responsibility, emphasizing the importance of accountability within families.
* How to challenge societal stereotypes around motherhood and the mental load, advocating for a more balanced and equitable approach to family responsibilities.
* Maja reflects on her journey in challenging stereotypes, highlighting the discomfort and growth that come with shifting societal norms.
* The ripple effect of change within families and society, highlighting the importance of incremental progress and continuous communication.
 
This episode offers many great valuable insights and practical tips to help you as a working mother navigate the complexities of the mental load, manage flexible work arrangements, and advocate for gender equality within your family and community.
 
Connect with Maja via LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/majapaleka
Follow us on Instagram @workingmummacommuity for regular inspiration and tips on working mum life or connect with Carina on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/carina-obrien. 
Join the Working Mumma Village and find your community of support to help you navigate the juggle of work/mum life 

Keeping Your Relationship Strong After Baby: Tips with Laura Press

I sit down with Laura Press, a relationship counselor and mother of three, to discuss how to keep your relationship strong after having a baby and managing the mental load of working motherhood.
Laura shares practical strategies for setting standards and expectations with your partner, effective communication techniques, and the importance of self-care.
Whether you're struggling with balancing work, family, and personal time or looking for ways to reconnect with your partner, this episode is packed with valuable advice to help you navigate these challenges.
* Learn how to establish clear expectations within your family and with your partner to reduce stress* Discover the significance of regular and clear communication to ensure everyone’s needs are met* Understand why self-care is crucial for a healthy relationship and personal well-being* How to resolve conflict with your partner so you can move forward together * Find ways to reconnect with your partner, even when you both have a busy schedule
 
Connect with Laura via her website laurapresscounselling.com.au or via Instagram @laurapresscounselling
Follow us on Instagram @workingmummacommuity for regular inspiration and tips on working mum life. 
Join the Working Mumma Village 

MUM STORY: Brooke Hanson on Managing Infant Loss and Motherhood

Everyone has their own parenting journey and I had an inspiring conversation with Olympic swimmer Brooke Hanson. She shares her journey from an elite athlete representing her country to a working mum. Brooke has 4 children, 3 earthside and one angel baby, Jack, after he passed away when he was 9 months old. 
She has faced my challenges in both her professional swimming career and throughout her motherhood journey, and Brooke shares how she often comes back to her "why" to help her determine what is best for her family at that time, and why we don't need to compare ourselves to others. 
[Trigger Warning] Brooke opens up about her experience with infant loss and how it has shaped her perspective on life and motherhood. She shares candidly about the challenges and emotions involved, providing insight and understanding for those who may have experienced similar losses. Brooke also shares how valuable the Starlight Children's Foundation is and the positive impact it has had on her life and family.
Listen to discover how Brooke's story can inspire you to navigate life's challenges with a positive mindset and find joy in the journey.
Brooke Hanson is a proud ambassador for Starlight Children’s Foundation. She is sharing her story in support of Starlight Day on May 21, which aims to raise $1 Million dollars by June 30 to help brighten the lives of 26,000 seriously ill children. To donate visit starlight.org.au
 
Connect with Brooke:
Instagram: @brookehanson_oly_oam
Website: brookehanson.com
Support Starlight Children's Foundation:
Visit starlight.org.au to learn more about their work and how you can get involved.
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NEXT STEPS:
Join the Working Mumma Village: workingmumma.com.au/working-mumma-village. 
Let's connect on LinkedIn 
Let's connect on Instagram @workingmummacommunity
Get the free 'How to share the mental load' workingmumma.com.au/mental-load/

Creating a Plan to Juggle Motherhood and Career

Many women meticulously plan their childbirth, but what about planning for the long journey of being a working mum? Parenting and balancing work can last 18+ years, spanning various stages from childcare to high school. Each phase brings unique challenges and chances to reflect on your desires for yourself and your family.
In this episode, we delve into the importance of creating a 'working mum plan,' exploring how to uncover your true desires and navigate the complexities of working mum life. Tune in to define your path and envision the working mum life you truly want.
 
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NEXT STEPS:
Join the Working Mumma Village: workingmumma.com.au/working-mumma-village. 
Let's connect on LinkedIn 
Let's connect on Instagram @workingmummacommunity
Get the free 'How to share the mental load' workingmumma.com.au/mental-load/

Redefining Success as a Working Mum with Jodi Geddes

In this episode, we delve into the challenges and triumphs of being a working mum. Jodi Geddes, the co-founder of Circle In, shares her personal journey from corporate life to becoming an entrepreneur, highlighting the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing tasks.
We also discuss strategies for managing the mental load of motherhood and the benefits of building a supportive workplace for working parents. Join us for an inspiring conversation that redefines success for working mums everywhere.
Jodi has built Circle In with her best friend and also received VC funding to help grow the business. During the episode, Jodi also shares her experiences of having a business with her best friend and the journey they are on. 
We chat about:
- Jodie's journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship
- The challenges of balancing work and motherhood
- Tips for managing the mental load of motherhood
- Building a supportive workplace for working parents
- Strategies for setting boundaries and prioritizing tasks
- Insights into redefining success as a working mum
 
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SHOW LINKS:
- Connect with Jodi Geddes via LinkedIn 
- Join the Working Mumma Village: workingmumma.com.au/working-mumma-village. 
- Let's connect on LinkedIn 
- Let's connect on Instagram @workingmummacommunity

MUM STORY: Stephanie-Kate Bratton on Career, Motherhood, and Primary Caregiving

In this episode, we dive into the unique journey of Stephanie-Kate Bratton, a mum, lawyer, and author, who shares her experiences navigating a successful career with motherhood and having her husband as the primary caregiver. From international career moves to redefining traditional gender roles, Stephanie's story offers a unique perspective on the challenges and joys of balancing work and family life.
We chat about:
The role of her husband as a stay-at-home dad and the challenges they faced in reversing traditional roles
Society's perceptions of gender roles and the importance of supporting mothers in their careers
Stephanie's decision to transition to part-time work and its impact on her family dynamic
The challenges of juggling career aspirations with parenting responsibilities
The perception of working mothers and the importance of self-identity
The value of self-care, including the importance of sleep and family time, in maintaining balance
The inspiration behind Stephanie's series of children's books aimed at demystifying professions for kids
Stephanie's story is both relatable and inspiring, offering valuable insights for all working parents. Her story highlights the changing landscape of modern families and the importance of support and understanding in achieving work-life balance to do what is best for you and your family.
 
SHOW LINKS:
- Connect with Stephanie-Kate Bratton via her website to purchase the "My mummy is" book or via LinkedIn 
- Join the Working Mumma Village: workingmumma.com.au/working-mumma-village. 
- Let's connect on LinkedIn 
- Let's connect on Instagram @workingmummacommunity