Episodes
-
In today’s powerful episode of Mentally Strong Mums, Elena breaks down exactly what a High-Conflict Person (HCP) is, why traditional communication fails with them, and what science-backed strategies you can use to protect your mental strength. 🛡️🧠
Drawing from the work of expert Bill Eddy and real-world psychological research, we’ll explore:
🔎 What defines a High-Conflict Personality (HCP)
💬 Why you can't reason with them the way you can with others
🛑 The 4 warning signs you’re dealing with a HCP
✨ The BIFF technique (Brief, Informative, Friendly, Firm) to communicate safely
🌱 How to stay regulated, empowered, and clear-headed—even in the chaos
Whether it's a co-parent, colleague, family member, or even a friend — knowing how to spot and manage high-conflict behavior is mental self-defense for your future.
🌐 Find more at www.mentallystrongmums.com -
When we think of a narcissist, we picture someone loud, arrogant, and attention-seeking. But what if narcissism hides in plain sight—quiet, passive, even "humble"?
Today, we're exposing the covert narcissist—the lesser-known but equally destructive version of narcissism—and why understanding it could protect your mental health. 🧠🚨
We'll explore:
✅ What narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) really is (according to the DSM-5)
✅ The subtle signs of covert narcissism (and why they’re so hard to spot)
✅ Real-world examples you’ll immediately recognise
✅ Why covert narcissists can make you doubt your own reality
✅ How to protect your boundaries and rebuild your self-trust
🔎 Based on real clinical research, psychology studies, and survivor experiences, this episode will equip you with the knowledge to spot manipulation—whether it’s in dating, family, friendships, or even workplaces.
✨ Knowledge is protection. Empower yourself to see clearly and stay strong.
When we think of narcissism, we imagine arrogance, ego, and flashy confidence. But what happens when narcissism hides behind kindness, victimhood, and quiet resentment?
In this eye-opening episode of Mentally Strong Mums, Elena uncovers the truth about covert narcissists—the lesser-known manipulators who can drain your confidence and sanity without you even realising it. 🚪👀
Learn:
🔎 What Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) really looks like (DSM-5 criteria)
🔎 The subtle signs of covert narcissism most people miss
🔎 Why covert narcissists leave you doubting your worth
🔎 How to protect yourself and heal emotional confusion
🔎 Why recognising the patterns early is the key to freedom
✨ Empower yourself with the knowledge to spot manipulation before it erodes your mental strength—and build bulletproof emotional boundaries for the future.
🌐 More resources: www.mentallystrongmums.com -
Missing episodes?
-
In this soul-fueling episode of Mentally Strong Mums, Elena explores the real emotional load of motherhood and why building mental strength, gratitude, and self-empowerment is the key to lasting happiness and resilience. 🌿💬
Through relatable stories, psychology-backed tips, and practical mindset shifts, you'll learn how to:
🌟 Stop resentment from eroding your peace
🌟 Build an internal “bulletproof” emotional house
🌟 Use gratitude and mindset to rewire self-sabotaging beliefs
🌟 Protect your energy while raising emotionally strong kids
🌟 Cultivate the generational legacy you want for your family
This episode is your reminder that you are not broken—you are growing. You are doing better than you think. Let's build a stronger, happier future—one thought, one choice, and one act of gratitude at a time. 💛✨
🌐 Find more resources at www.mentallystrongmums.com -
In this beautiful and bold episode of Mentally Strong Mums, Elena is joined by Sky Blu (a.k.a. Blu), a compassionate psychotherapist, sex and intimacy therapist, and founder of Intimacy with Blu. Together they explore why so many women—especially mothers—experience low desire and disconnection in relationships, and how to move from avoidance to empowerment.
💡 Learn the 6-step method Blu uses to help women go from “touched out” and exhausted to feeling sensual, confident, and empowered.
You’ll hear about:
🔥 The difference between spontaneous and responsive desire
🌱 How to rebuild intimacy without pressure or shame
🧠 How nervous system dysregulation, burnout, and internalised cultural messages affect libido
🫀 Why reclaiming pleasure is an act of healing
💬 Communication tips for safety, trust, and mutual satisfaction
This episode is a must-listen for any mother wondering “why don’t I want sex anymore?”—and what to do about it without blaming yourself.
✨ Discover that you are not broken. You are simply ready to reconnect with your body and your power. -
⚠️ Content Warning: This episode contains sensitive themes including personal experiences with cancer, grief, and emotional hardship. Please listen with care.
In this deeply heartfelt episode of Mentally Strong Mums, Elena is joined by Suzanne Shoesmith, a Self-Care Coach for Mums and founder of Choice4Change. Together, they explore what it truly means to move from survival mode to thriving in motherhood using 3 transformative pillars of self-care.
Suzanne shares her journey through profound emotional challenges—including the grief of losing her mother to cancer as a teen, long-term financial stress, and how those experiences shaped her passion for helping other mothers.
You’ll hear:
🌿 The 3 pillars of sustainable self-care
💬 Why traditional “self-care” isn’t enough
🧠 How to rewire your mindset and habits
🌬 Practical tools to regulate your nervous system
❤️ How walking, nature, and connection can ground and heal
Whether you’re emotionally drained, stuck in cycles of stress, or just want more balance in your life—this episode is here to support and uplift you. -
In this episode, we delve into the complexities of intimacy, exploring the differing needs and desires of men and women. By examining perspectives from evolutionary psychology and biology, we aim to shed light on how these differences manifest in modern relationships. Our goal is to empower women with knowledge and provide resources for fostering deeper connections.
-
In this episode of Mentally Strong Mums, we explore how the modern dating landscape is shifting due to political and social division, not just for our teenage and young adult children, but for us as mums too. With the rise of polarization, social media influence, and dating fatigue, navigating romantic relationships has never been more complex.
From 'wokefishing' and misinformation to dating app burnout, we dive into what recent research and media (like Triple J’s Hack and The Guardian) are saying about why more young people—and even single mothers—are choosing to opt out of dating altogether.
You’ll learn:
🧠 How algorithm-driven content is shaping young men's worldviews
❤️ Why politics are playing a bigger role in relationship compatibility
👩👧 How to support your children navigating love in a highly divided time
💡 What to consider if you’re a single mum back in the dating world -
stuck in the middle, juggling the needs of your children while also supporting aging parents? If so, welcome to the Sandwich Generation—where mothers are often the shock absorbers of society, carrying the mental, emotional, and financial weight of multigenerational caregiving.
In this episode of Mentally Strong Mums, I discuss:
🍞 What is the Sandwich Generation? Understanding why so many mums are stretched between caring for their kids and aging parents.
⚖️ The mental load & gender roles: Why women are expected to "handle it all" and how this impacts our health.
🌏 Cultural perspectives on caregiving: How different countries support multigenerational families (and what Australia can learn!).
🧠 The impact on mental & physical health: Stress biomarkers, attachment issues for kids, and long-term effects on mothers.
💡 How to support caregivers: Practical solutions for mums navigating the overwhelming responsibility of caregiving.
🎙️ Plus, I share a personal reflection, a case study, and details about my upcoming event with the Australian Association of Social Workers on this very topic.
📢 Join me for this important conversation. Your role as a mother, daughter, and caregiver is deeply valuable—but so is your well-being.
💡 Register for my upcoming AASW event on March 11th here: https://my.aasw.asn.au/s/event-information?EventID=a2YRG000000M1YX2A0 -
Mums, when was the last time you truly tuned into your body? 🌿 Your mental and physical health are deeply connected, and this week on Mentally Strong Mums, we’re diving into the power of lymphatic health with expert Chelsey Jean.
With over 27 years of experience as a Sports Therapist, Naturopath, and entrepreneur, Chelsey has dedicated her career to empowering women to take control of their well-being. She’s the founder of Chelsey Jean Lymphatics and the creator of groundbreaking lymphatic health techniques, including her signature Lymphatic Gloves, designed to help women feel lighter, more energized, and in control of their health.
🎙️ In this episode, we discuss:
💡 What is lymphatic health and why does it matter?
⚖️ The connection between mental wellness and the lymphatic system
🧘♀️ Signs that your body is holding onto stress and toxins
🚀 Simple, time-friendly ways for busy mums to improve their lymphatic flow
❌ Why so many women feel stuck in burnout—and how to break the cycle!
This is an eye-opening conversation that every mum needs to hear. Your body is constantly talking to you—it's time to start listening. ❤️
🎧 Tune in now to learn how to support your body, feel more energized, and take control of your health.
See more with Chelsey Jean below!
https://youtu.be/d2EqCD66uug?si=711eh4GnBmboZ-zu -
🔥 “Weight Loss & Mental Health: Breaking the Guilt Cycle and Prioritizing YOU”
Episode Description:
Mums, let’s talk about the emotional weight we carry—because it’s not just about numbers on a scale. Why do we feel guilty for prioritizing our health? Why do we put everyone else first, only to end up feeling stuck in a cycle of exhaustion, self-doubt, and frustration?
In this episode of Mentally Strong Mums, we’re diving deep into:
🧠 The connection between mental health & weight loss—why mindset matters more than any diet.
💬 How mum guilt stops us from prioritizing ourselves (and how to break free!).
🔄 The emotional spiral of neglecting self-care and how to shift from self-sabotage to self-compassion.
🚀 3 realistic, time-efficient strategies to improve your health—even when you're busy!
If you’re tired of feeling stuck and want a sustainable, empowering approach to weight loss and well-being, this episode is for you. Let’s break the guilt cycle and take back control!
✨ Tune in now for a science-backed, guilt-free guide to feeling strong, healthy & confident. -
What kind of legacy do you want to leave for your children? As mums, we shape the next generation—not just through what we teach, but through what we live. Every word we say, every action we take, and every belief we carry influences our children’s values, ethics, and morals.
In this episode of Mentally Strong Mums, we explore:
🌿 How to reflect on the values you want to pass down.
🧠 The psychology behind how children absorb beliefs from parents.
❌ Breaking unhealthy generational patterns.
💡 Practical ways to model and instill resilience, kindness, and integrity.
Whether you’re carrying forward meaningful traditions or creating new ones, this episode will help you define the legacy you want to leave behind—one that shapes your child’s future in the best way possible.
✨ Tune in now for a deep dive into parenting with purpose and passing down values that matter. -
This week on Mentally Strong Mums, I sit down with Joanne Fitzgerald from Joanne Fitzgerald Therapy to explore the transformative power of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for youth, adolescents, and young adults. Joanne shares how DBT helps young people build emotional resilience, develop social skills, and manage overwhelming emotions—and why it’s just as important for the whole family to engage in the process.
Discover why therapy can be a game-changer for teens and their families, and how programs like DBT provide tools for better communication, emotional regulation, and lifelong mental health. Tune in to learn why early intervention matters and how families can grow stronger together!
✨ Parenting teens can be HARD—but you don’t have to do it alone.
This week on Mentally Strong Mums, I chat with Joanne Fitzgerald from Joanne Fitzgerald Therapy about how Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is helping youth and their families thrive. 💞
🌟 We cover:
🧠 How DBT helps teens manage emotions and develop resilience
👪 Why involving the whole family leads to better outcomes
💬 The power of therapy in transforming family dynamics
💖 Whether you’re navigating challenges with your teen or looking for tools to strengthen your family’s connection, this episode is for you. Tune in now via the link in bio!
💬 Have you or someone you love tried DBT? Share your experience below 👇
🎧 #MentallyStrongMums #DBTForFamilies #ParentingTeens #YouthMentalHealth #SocialSkillsDevelopment #TherapyForTeens #ParentingSupport #FamilyTherapyTips #MentalHealthForFamilies #MumLifeBalance #EmotionalResilience #DBTPrograms #StrongerTogether #AdolescentWellness #YoungAdultTherapy #ParentingTeensWithDBT #MentalHealthSupport #YouthEmotionalHealth #PositiveParentingTips #FamilyGrowthMindset #MentalWellnessForParents -
Feeling burnt out and far from your healthy best? You’re not alone, Mum. In this soothing episode of Mentally Strong Mums, I guide you through powerful affirmations and a grounding meditation designed to help you reset your mind and body. These words of encouragement will empower you to release stress, embrace self-compassion, and reconnect with your strength. Perfect for those moments when you feel overwhelmed, tired, or just need a little extra support. Tune in to find your calm and rediscover your inner resilience.
💆♀️✨ Mum, when was the last time you pressed “pause” and cared for yourself?
If you’re feeling burnt out, tired, or just not at your best, this week’s Mentally Strong Mums episode is here for YOU. 💞
💖 It’s a soothing blend of:
✨ Positive affirmations to ground and empower you
🧘♀️ A guided meditation to reset your mind and body
💡 Encouragement to help you embrace self-compassion
🎧 Tune in now via the link in bio and give yourself permission to REST and RECHARGE. 💞 You deserve it!
💬 What’s your favorite way to reset when you’re feeling burnt out? Share below 👇
🎧 #MentallyStrongMums #PositiveAffirmations #BurnoutRecovery #ResetAndRecharge #SelfCareForMums #MindfulParenting #MentalHealthForMums #GuidedMeditationForBurnout #MumLifeBalance #StressReliefForParents #SelfCompassionForMums #GroundingMeditation #ResilientMotherhood #EmpoweredMums #ParentingWithMindfulness #OverwhelmedMumSupport #MentalWellnessTips #DailyAffirmations #MeditationForMothers #MumLifeHacks #CalmInTheChaos #HealingForMums #RelaxAndReset #SelfLoveForMums -
The holidays are joyful, but let’s be honest—they’re also exhausting! From endless to-do lists to the emotional toll of juggling everything, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. In this episode of Mentally Strong Mums, we’re tackling holiday stress head-on. Discover practical self-care strategies, the power of saying no, and why taking a social media break might be your best gift to yourself. Tune in now to learn how to protect your mental health and stay grounded during the holiday hustle.
🎄💆♀️ Feeling overwhelmed by the holiday hustle? You’re not alone, Mum.
Between planning, shopping, and meeting everyone’s needs, it’s easy to forget to take care of YOU. That’s why this week’s Mentally Strong Mums episode is all about:
✨ Prioritizing your mental health during the holidays
🛑 Saying no to what doesn’t serve you
📵 Taking a much-needed break from social media
💞 Let’s make this season joyful AND manageable. Click the link in bio to tune in now!
💬 How do YOU protect your mental health during the holidays? Let’s talk about it below 👇
🎧 #MentallyStrongMums #HolidayMentalHealth #OverwhelmedMum #StressFreeHolidays #MindfulParenting #MumLifeBalance #ParentingThroughTheHolidays #SelfCareForMums #FestiveWellness #HolidayStressRelief #MentalHealthAwareness #ParentingSupportNetwork #OverwhelmedToEmpowered #JoyfulHolidaySeason #MindfulnessForMums #BalancedMotherhood #CalmInTheChaos #HolidayHacksForMums #MentalWellnessTips #ResilientMumLife #ParentingMindfully #SelfCareThroughHolidays -
The holidays bring joy and celebration, but they also come with hidden risks—from overloaded power boards to emotional strain in family dynamics. In this episode of Mentally Strong Mums, we focus on practical tips to keep your family safe and well during the festive season. Learn how to prevent household hazards, maintain harmony at gatherings, and manage alcohol consumption responsibly. Safety doesn’t have to take away from the fun—it enhances it. Tune in now to ensure a worry-free and happy holiday season!
🎄✨ The holidays are magical, but they can also be hectic—and sometimes dangerous! 😬 Let’s keep your family safe and stress-free this festive season.
In this week’s Mentally Strong Mums episode, I’m sharing:
🔥 Tips to prevent fire and electrical hazards
🍷 Ways to manage alcohol consumption at gatherings
💬 How to handle tricky family dynamics and maintain harmony
🎧 Click the link in bio to tune in and make safety a priority this season. Because a safe holiday is a happy holiday! 💞
💬 What’s YOUR top safety tip for the holidays? Drop it below 👇
🎧 #MentallyStrongMums #HolidaySafetyTips #FestiveWellness #MumLifeBalance #FamilySafetyFirst #StressFreeHolidays #SafetyAtHome #ParentingDuringTheHolidays #FireSafetyTips #CalmFestiveSeason #HolidayStressRelief #MumLifeHacks #HolidayMindset #SafetyForKids #OverwhelmedMumLife #ParentingThroughChaos #HolidayBalance #FestiveTipsForMums #ParentingSupportNetwork #HappyHolidaysSafeHolidays #MindfulMum #HolidayHarmony #MentalHealthForMums -
The holidays can put serious strain on your wallet—and your peace of mind. From buying gifts to hosting festive meals, the financial pressure can feel overwhelming. In this episode of Mentally Strong Mums, we’re diving into practical, budget-friendly strategies to help you navigate holiday expenses without stress. Discover how to plan an affordable holiday, embrace meaningful traditions, and avoid the financial hangover in the new year. Tune in now to learn how to make the most of the festive season without breaking the bank!
💰🎄 The holidays are here, and so are the expenses. 😩 But what if you could enjoy the festive season without the financial stress?
In this week’s episode of Mentally Strong Mums, I’m sharing:
✨ Simple ways to create a realistic holiday budget
🎁 Ideas for thoughtful, low-cost gifts
🍴 Affordable family activities that don’t skimp on joy
Let’s ditch the financial hangover this holiday season and focus on what really matters—time with loved ones. 💞 Tune in now via the link in bio!
💬 What’s YOUR favorite way to save during the holidays? Share your tips below 👇
🎧 #MentallyStrongMums #HolidayBudgeting #FestiveSavings #MumLifeHacks #MoneySmartHolidays #BudgetFriendlyParenting #AffordableFamilyFun #HolidaySpendingTips #FestiveFinances #StressFreeHolidays #MumLifeBalance #HolidaySavingsPlan #ParentingOnABudget #SimpleHolidayTips #MeaningfulGiftsForLess #FinancialWellnessForMums #SmartHolidayChoices #FrugalFestivities #HolidayMoneyTips #ParentingWithPurpose #HolidayMentalHealth #CalmAndBudgetFriendly #FamilyFirstHolidays #MoneyMindfulMum #BudgetingMadeSimple -
The holidays are meant to be a time of joy, but for mums, they often bring endless to-do lists, high expectations, and stress. In this episode of Mentally Strong Mums, we explore practical strategies to help you manage holiday stress, set realistic goals, and let go of perfectionism. Learn how to reclaim the festive season with mindfulness and intentionality, so you can create meaningful moments without burning out. Tune in now and make this holiday season the most balanced yet!
-
In this episode of Mentally Strong Mums, we explore the unrealistic societal pressure for mothers to be perfect and how embracing imperfection can lead to healthier parenting and mental well-being. Drawing on research from the American Psychological Association, we discuss the mental health risks of perfectionism and the benefits of practicing self-compassion. Learn practical tips to let go of perfectionism, celebrate small wins, and share your imperfect parenting moments to create a more supportive, authentic family dynamic. Tune in for advice on how accepting imperfection can actually strengthen your bond with your children.
https://www.mentallystrongmums.com/
Embracing imperfection in parenting
Letting go of perfectionism as a mother
Self-compassion tips for mums
Parenting without perfection
Perfectionism and motherhood stress
Positive parenting and mental health
Reducing stress in parenting
Mental health for perfectionist mothers
Self-compassion for mothers
How to overcome perfectionism in parenting -
In this Mentally Strong Mums episode, we tackle the overwhelming stress and anxiety that many mothers face while juggling parenting, work, and personal responsibilities. Drawing on research from leading studies in Australia, we explore the causes of maternal anxiety, from perinatal stress to the pressure of balancing work and family life. You’ll learn science-backed techniques, including the "5 Second Rule," box breathing, and progressive muscle relaxation to help you manage stress and regain a sense of calm. Tune in for practical advice on how to handle anxiety in a way that empowers you to be the best version of yourself for both you and your family.
https://www.mentallystrongmums.com/
Managing anxiety as a mother
Stress relief tips for mums
Reducing anxiety in motherhood
Perinatal mental health support
Anxiety management for busy mothers
Stress relief strategies for parenting
Techniques to cope with maternal anxiety
Parenting and mental health
Juggling work and family stress
Anxiety management for mothers -
In this episode of Mentally Strong Mums, we delve into the importance of emotional resilience for mothers and how to build it. Mothers often juggle work, family, and personal responsibilities, all while managing their children’s emotional needs. We explore how emotional resilience helps mothers cope with the mental load, prevent burnout, and model healthy behaviors for their children. Drawing from positive psychology and research on resilience, you'll learn practical strategies like cognitive reframing, gratitude journaling, and self-compassion techniques. Discover how to grow stronger through adversity and create a more supportive, stable environment for your family.
https://www.mentallystrongmums.com/
Emotional resilience for mothers
How to build resilience as a mum
Coping with stress in motherhood
Mental health tips for mums
Burnout prevention for mothers
Parenting with emotional resilience
Practical resilience tips for mums
Self-compassion in motherhood
Resilience-building activities for mums
Mental load management for mothers - Show more
