Working Mumma

How to overcome the Superwoman Syndrome with Renee Barnes

This week I speak with Renee Barnes, founder of the People Paradox, and fellow working mum about Superwoman Syndrome and why it is time to let go of the notion. Renee shares invaluable insights into the challenges and growth opportunities mothers face during this transformative journey.
Renee shares what is "Superwoman Syndrome", its origins, and how societal expectations contribute to this unrealistic ideal for working mothers. We discuss the significant mental and physical health impacts of striving to be a Superwoman and how you can redefine this moving forward and break free from the cycle. 
Renee and I chat about the critical role employers play in a mother’s return to work after parental leave. Renee highlights strategies for businesses to create a supportive environment and retain valuable talent, helping to let go of Superwoman Syndrome in this critical time. She stresses the importance of employers being proactive in discussing entitlements, flexible work opportunities, and creating a supportive culture. 
This is an enlightening conversation with many tools, tips, and strategies to support you to let go of the notion of superwoman. 
 
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Connect with Renee via Instagram @found_learningmotherhood or her website The FOUND program
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. 
Join the free Working Mumma Community
Get your free 'How to share the mental load' checklist workingmumma.com.au/mental-load/
 

Overcoming Overwhelm: Triumph as a Great Mum

When was the last time you had a moment on your own to acknowledge what a great mum you are? No doubt, it has been a while.
In this episode, I want to remind you that you are amazing and not alone in navigating the juggle of motherhood and career. It's not easy, and there are good days and average days, but remember, doing something is better than doing nothing.
It’s okay to focus on what’s best for you and your family without comparing yourself to others.
I discuss the power of community and how connecting with other mums can provide encouragement and practical support. The importance of self-care is highlighted, emphasizing how taking time for yourself benefits both you and your family.
Additionally, I delve into embracing flexibility and setting boundaries to balance work and motherhood, showing how being adaptable and knowing your limits can help manage daily challenges.
As a takeaway exercise, I encourage you to reflect on 10 things you are doing well in motherhood and your career. Keep these visible, especially on those bad days, as a reminder of your strengths and achievements.
 
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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/
 

Practical Strategies to Conquer Mum Guilt with Sarah Purins

If you have experienced mum guilt, you aren't alone. Over 98% of mothers have experienced mum guilt. In this episode, I speak with mindset coach and mother, Sarah Purins about how to cope with mum guilt.
Sarah and I chat about the triggers and influences of mum guilt, such as societal expectations, personal pressures, and unwanted opinions from others. She discusses two types of guilt and shares tips and strategies on how to navigate mum guilt when it appears using her GUILT method. 
Sarah shares practical tips for working mums to balance their careers and family life without feeling overwhelmed by guilt. Sarah's insights highlight the significance of reframing one's mindset to foster a more positive outlook on their dual roles.
This is a great episode that you might want to bookmark and come back to when you experience mum guilt to help you work through the mindset and emotions. 
 
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Connect with Sarah via Instagram @sarahkate.coaching
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. 
Join the free Working Mumma Community
Get your free 'How to share the mental load' checklist workingmumma.com.au/mental-load/

How to Navigate Mum Guilt at Childcare Drop-Off

In this episode of the Working Mumma Podcast, I dive into the often overwhelming feeling of mum guilt that accompanies childcare drop-offs.
I explore why these emotions arise and share practical strategies to manage and alleviate guilt. During the episode, I share practical strategies and tips to help you to reframe the drop-off experience, acknowledge the benefits of childcare for both your child and you, and implement self-care practices.
Please know that if you experience mum guilt, you are not alone - every mum experiences it. But, you can work through the guilt and see all the positives for you both. 
 
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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/

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/

How to continue breastfeeding when you return to work with LC 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