Episodes
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In this episode, I delve into eight things I wish I had known before embarking on my journey as a mum. While pregnancy comes with its fair share of advice, there's often less guidance on navigating the complexities of balancing career and motherhood.
Join me as I share these personal insights to help you navigate your own journey:
- Understanding why each transition, whether it's returning to work, going on maternity leave, or managing multiple childcare needs, presents its unique challenges.
- Acknowledging the reality of mum guilt and learning to manage it while pursuing a fulfilling career.
- Realizing that achieving a perfect work-life balance is unrealistic and learning to take each day as it comes.
- Embracing the power of mindset in overcoming challenges and staying resilient.
- Increasing awareness of matrescence and its impact on personal identity and career.
No matter where you are on your journey—whether you're pregnant, on maternity leave, returning to work, or navigating the early years of motherhood—this episode is for you. Join me as we explore these insights and reflections on the complexities of being a working mum.
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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/
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I chat with Kate Toon, business mentor, digital marketing coach, author, and mother, and dive into the world of raising a child whilst running a six-figure business within school hours (tip - it's not as easy as it looks).
Kate shares her journey of business ownership over the past 15 years, from deciding to become a freelancer when she was 5 months pregnant, and a bumpy first few years trying to run a business whilst caring for a small child. She shares practical tips and inspiring insights for all the mums out there looking to start their own business, or navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.
We chat about:
- Kat'e advice if she had to start her business today
- How Kate has balanced motherhood and her business
- The challenges and advantages of running your business business
- Tips for anyone looking to start their own business
- Importance of self-care and having fun
Enjoy Kate's honest insights into having your own business that provides valuable guidance for anyone seeking to balance the demands of motherhood with pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams.
SHOW LINKS:
- Connect with Kate Toon on Instagram @katetoon, her website or purchase her book Six Figures in School Hours
- Join the Working Mumma Village: workingmumma.com.au/working-mumma-village.
- Let's connect on LinkedIn
- Let's connect on Instagram @workingmummacommunity
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Missing episodes?
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Welcome to the Working Mumma podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Ellen Ford, an advocate for working mothers, award-winning leader, military veteran, international speaker, facilitator, and mum! Ellen shares powerful insights on redefining success, finding harmony between work and parenting, and valuing the skills you have acquired during parental leave.
Hear practical strategies for having productive discussions with your employer about flexible work arrangements, with a strong focus on outcomes and results rather than counting hours. Ellen also opens up about her journey as a working mother, emphasizing the importance of self-care and finding activities that rejuvenate you
SHOW LINKS:
- Connect with Dr. Ellen Ford on LinkedIn, her website or purchase her book #workschoolhours
- Join the Working Mumma Village: workingmumma.com.au/working-mumma-village.
- Get the 5 Steps to sharing the Mental Load with your partner workingmumma.com.au/mental-load
- Let's connect on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/working-mumma
- Let's connect on Instagram @workingmummacommunity
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Mothers often respond with "good" when asked how they are, but deep down, many are exhausted. This exhaustion is often due to the mental load they carry. Yet, comprehending this mental load could be an initial step towards managing it better.
My thoughts on how to improve gender equality? It starts in the home.
The more we can rebalance the caring and mental load in the home, it will have a flow on effect to organisations because fathers will need to share more of the caring responsibilities and understanding of female colleagues, especially those that are mothers.
In this episode, I share with you a five-step framework to assist you in rebalancing the mental load with your partner. A resource filled with actionable steps and strategies is available (link below) to begin your journey towards rebalancing the mental load.
I share with you tips for managing the mental load in a relationship, establishing a path towards a harmonious coexistence. It might seem challenging initially, but as the mental load gets rebalanced, it becomes smoother. A little patience can pave the way for an easier, more balanced lifestyle.
SHOW LINKS:
- Free resource as referenced in the podcast "How to share the mental load with your partner" workingmumma.com.au/mental-load
- Join the Working Mumma Village: workingmumma.com.au/working-mumma-village.
- Let's connect on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/working-mumma
- Let's connect on Instagram @workingmummacommunity
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In this episode, I chat with Mia Fileman, a successful businesswoman and military spouse, to discuss her experiences and insights into balancing her career with the challenges of military life. Mia shares her insights and strategies for finding balance and success in the face of constant change.During this episode, Mia and I chat about:
Challenges of Military Life: Mia discusses the challenges faced by military spouses, including frequent moves, deployments, and the need for resilience in the face of uncertainty.Maintaining Communication: Mia shares her tips for staying connected with her husband during deployments and managing the emotional toll of separation on herself and her children.Career and Business: Mia talks about her journey as a campaign expert and how she has built a successful business while navigating the demands of military life.Tips for Juggling: Mia offers practical advice for managing the juggle of career and family, including prioritizing self-care, staying active, and involving her children in her work.Future Goals: Mia discusses her future goals for her business and family, including plans for a sabbatical year and her ambitions for the growth of her business.You will gain valuable insights into the realities of military life and the unique challenges faced by military spouses. This will help you discover practical strategies for managing the demands of a career and family in the face of constant change and uncertainty. Mia's story is one of resilience, determination, and finding opportunity in adversity, inspiring listeners to find their own path to balance and success.
SHOW LINKS:
- Connect with Mia on Instagram @campaign_del_mar and or her website campaigndelmar.com
- Join the Working Mumma Village: workingmumma.com.au/working-mumma-village.
- Get the 3 steps to sharing the mental load workingmumma.com.au/mental-load
- Let's connect on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/working-mumma
- Let's connect on Instagram @workingmummacommunity
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In this episode, we delve into the often overlooked aspects of motherhood—financial literacy and the mental load. Our guest, Ana Christina, author of "Kids Ain't Cheap," shares her insights on how to navigate the financial challenges of parenthood while balancing a career. She discusses the hidden costs of parenthood, the importance of financial planning, and strategies for setting your family up for long-term financial success.
WE CHAT ABOUT:
The hidden costs of parenthood and how to prepare for themThe importance of understanding your values and financial goals as a familyTips for setting up your children for financial successThe evolving role of women in financial literacy and investingStrategies for managing financial stress and building resilienceSHOW LINKS:
- Connect with Ana on Instagram @anakresina and her book "Kid's Ain't Cheap"
- Join the Working Mumma Village: workingmumma.com.au/working-mumma-village.
- Get the 3 steps to sharing the mental load workingmumma.com.au/mental-load
- Let's connect on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/working-mumma
- Let's connect on Instagram @workingmummacommunity
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In this episode, we delve deep into the emotional and mental toll of returning to work after maternity leave. Guests, Clinical Psychologists Kass and Alicia, share their expert advice on overcoming the feelings of self-doubt and imposter syndrome prevalent among working mothers as they return to work after maternity leave. They further question the default narratives about motherhood while stressing the need for understanding, support, and growth.
This engaging conversation challenges the stereotypes around working mothers and highlights how motherhood reveals and sharpens priorities, fostering an unapologetic, more rounded approach towards personal and professional commitments.
In this episode, we also debunk motherhood myths, including the "baby brain" concept, and highlight that motherhood only enhances a woman's capabilities at work, not reduces it. Far from reducing efficiency, parenthood strengthens women's multitasking ability and overall productivity. Kass and Alicia emphasize the need for women, especially mothers, to trust themselves, embrace their motherly lessons, and withstand societal biases.
Join us as we explore the nagging feelings of self-doubt and impostor syndrome - how they impact our daily lives and relationships. We shed light on how to navigate these emotions confidently and reclaim your place in the world of work.
SHOW LINKS:
- Connect with Kass and Alicia on Instagram @tend_women
- Join the Working Mumma Village: workingmumma.com.au/working-mumma-village.
- Get the 3 steps to sharing the mental load workingmumma.com.au/mental-load
- Let's connect on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/working-mumma
- Let's connect on Instagram @workingmummacommunity
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In this episode, I delve into a topic we all experience but seldom discuss - the Mum Mindset. Beyond the well-known growth vs fixed mindset paradigm, the unique challenges faced by mothers often go unexplored. The constant juggling of responsibilities, the pressure to do it all, and the mental chaos can be exhausting.
As we step into the new year, it's an opportune moment for reflection and resetting the narratives we tell ourselves about what we "should" be doing as mothers. This episode encourages you to set meaningful goals and objectives, shaping the way you think and feel in 2024.
Join us as we embark on the journey of working on our Mum Mindset. I share my personal insights on what I envision for working mums this year, exploring the ins and outs of our shared experiences. What would you add to the list? Your thoughts and perspectives are valuable as we collectively navigate the challenges and triumphs of being a working mother. Tune in for an inspiring conversation and practical tips to make 2024 a year of growth and fulfillment for all working mums.
SHOW LINKS:
- Join the Working Mumma Village: workingmumma.com.au/working-mumma-village.
- Get the 3 steps to sharing the mental load workingmumma.com.au/mental-load
- Lets connect on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/working-mumma
- Let's connect on Instagram @workingmummacommunity
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Today, we dive into the dynamic world of career transitions, work-life integration, and the unique challenges faced by working mothers. Joining us is Dayna Stewart, the Executive Director of The Nudge Group, and a devoted mother to two children.
In this insightful conversation, Dayna shares her wealth of experience from over 20 years in recruitment, offering valuable advice on how to navigate your career journey successfully. Here are the highlights from our conversation:
Here are the highlights from our conversation:
Explore the trend of women changing jobs to align with their work/life integration priorities.Discover strategies to cut through the competition and secure that coveted interview slot.Gain insights into effective positioning in a competitive recruitment environment.Receive expert tips on resume crafting, including addressing motherhood and parental leave breaks.Understand what to look for in a potential workplace for a seamless integration of your professional and personal life.Explore the importance of maintaining a positive mindset throughout the job search process.Understand the elements that make your LinkedIn profile stand out in a sea of candidates.Learn how being a stand-out candidate can make a lasting impression on key stakeholders.Connect with Dayna on LinkedIn and find out more about the Nudge Group on their website.
If you are looking for community and support as a working mum, check out the Working Mumma Village digital membership workingmumma.com.au/working-mumma-village.
As always, I'd like to connect on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/working-mumma or Instagram @workingmummacommunity and check out the Working Mumma website workingmumma.com.au
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Embarking on a new chapter, whether it's the leap from home to childcare or kindergarten to school, can stir up a whirlwind of emotions for both children and parents. In this episode of the Working Mumma podcast, we dive into the intricacies of transitions with Dr. Kathryn Hackman, MBBS PhD FRACP, a mother and the founder of Courageous Kids. Discover effective strategies to tackle separation anxiety and set your kids up for success in new environments.
Dr. Hackman, having faced the challenges of tricky drop-offs herself, unveils the realities of transitions and separation anxiety—one in nine children grapple with this. Our children's reactions to new surroundings are perfectly normal, and it's crucial for parents to acknowledge and address these emotions.
Drawing parallels between a child's transition and our first day at a new job, we recognize that anxiety is a shared experience. Like adults entering a new workplace, children too face uncertainties and anxieties during key transition phases. Understanding this analogy can guide parents in empathizing with their children's emotions.
We talk about:
Strategies to build familiarity and trust with your child's educators or caregivers.The transformative power of storytelling and play in creating familiarity.The importance of emotional preparation over physical preparation for transitions.Practical tips on when and how to manage transitions effectively.Recognizing that transitions extend beyond education and occur in various aspects of our lives.Gain valuable insights as Dr. Kathryn shares practical strategies, emphasizing the crucial role of preparation in managing transitions. From building trust to incorporating play and storytelling, these tips are easily implementable, supporting parents in navigating their children through significant life changes.
Connect with Kathryn: For more information about Dr. Kathryn Hackman and the Courageous Kids app, visit the website www.courageouskidsapp.com or follow on Instagram @courageouskidsapp.
Community and Support: If you're a working mum seeking community and support, explore the Working Mumma Village digital membership at workingmumma.com.au/working-mumma-village.
Stay Connected: Connect with Working Mumma on LinkedIn and Instagram @workingmummacommunity. Visit the Working Mumma website at workingmumma.com.au.
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Today, we delve into the world of flexible work with a true expert, Belinda Morgan, a dedicated flexible work and leadership specialist. In this episode, Belinda shares her profound insights, rich experiences, and actionable advice on how part-time work can be a game-changer in achieving work-life integration without compromising career aspirations.
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the Working Mumma podcast. We hope you feel inspired and equipped to embrace the possibilities of part-time work for a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Connect with Belinda: Website www.belindamorgan.com Check out her book, 'Solving the Part-Time Puzzle,'
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Connect with Carina at Working Mumma:
Free resource: '3 steps to sharing the mental load'LinkedIn: Working Mumma LinkedInInstagram: @workingmummacommunityWebsite: workingmumma.com.au -
On this episode of the Working Mumma Podcast, we delve into a topic that resonates deeply with working mothers everywhere: the elusive work/life balance. Many of us find ourselves caught in the perpetual cycle of the "hamster wheel of life," struggling to define and maintain boundaries. In this insightful episode, we explore a four-step process to help you establish and uphold boundaries, ensuring happiness both at home and in the workplace.
Key Takeaways:
Reflective Questions:
Start the journey by pondering two key questions designed for working mums. These will set the foundation for understanding your unique challenges and aspirations.Building Boundaries:
Discover a practical four-step process to create effective boundaries. Learn how to implement them seamlessly into your daily routine, addressing the common struggle of finding a sense of normalcy amidst life's chaos.Strategies for Boundary Management:
Life can get hectic, and boundaries may blur. Gain valuable insights into strategies for managing boundaries during challenging times. This episode provides a roadmap to get back on track when things seem overwhelming.Mindset Matters:
Recognize the importance and value of mindset in the boundary-setting process. Understand how cultivating a positive mindset can empower you to create and maintain boundaries effectively.Celebrating Success:
Take a moment to celebrate your wins. Acknowledge and appreciate the boundaries that are working for you. In the pursuit of balance, recognizing successes is as crucial as addressing challenges.As you embark on setting boundaries for 2024, remember that work/life integration is within your reach. May this episode inspire and guide you towards the balance you desire. Best of luck on your journey!
Community and Support:
If you're seeking a supportive community of fellow working mums, explore the Working Mumma Village digital membership at workingmumma.com.au/working-mumma-village.Connect with Us:
Connect with the Working Mumma community on LinkedIn and Instagram. For additional resources, visit the Working Mumma website at workingmumma.com.au.Enjoy the episode, and here's to a successful 2024 filled with well-defined boundaries and harmonious work/life integration!
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In this empowering episode of the Working Mumma podcast, I take you on a journey into my year that has been personally & professionally transformative, marked by milestones, challenges, and unexpected triumphs.
Mid year I was experiencing imposter syndrome and personal doubt that was having a big impact. But, as I explain in the episode, I got support and came out much better on the other side.
During the episode, I share how I navigated applying for a new position, along with the associated internal struggles, and the crucial importance of acknowledging personal achievements, but highlighting the positives that can come from job interviews.
I'm very honest with my journey and I hope this gives you some questions to also reflect on for yourself to acknowledge and celebrate the journey you have been on.
I also talk about:
Turning 40 and Reflecting: Milestone birthdays serve as powerful moments of reflection, reshaping perspectives on personal and professional growth.
Navigating Corporate Crossroads: Why applying for a corporate role unveils internal struggles, leading to a profound reflection on resilience and personal achievements.Saying Yes to the Unknown: I share the journey of embracing uncertainty, saying "yes" to unexpected opportunities, and the empowering experience of appearing on TV.
Lessons and Takeaways: The episode includes three questions you can ask yourself to reflect on 2023
Enjoy this episode and have a great day.
Connect with Carina at Working Mumma
Free resource: '3 steps to sharing the mental load'
Join the waitlist for the Working Mumma Village
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/working-mumma
Instagram: @workingmummacommunity
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Alexandra is a solo mum by choice who has recently released a memoir called Inconceivable: Heartbreak, Bad Dates and Finding Solo Motherhood. During this episode, we chat about how Alexandra wrestled with her desire for a baby along with her creative and career ambitions at the same time.
Alexandra has an inspiring story of following your dreams and taking hold of your own future, no matter what that might look like. She shares very opening some of her challenges and struggles throughout her motherhood journey, but also how she navigates her career and parenting as a solo mum.
About Alexandra
Alexandra Collier is an award-winning writer for screen, print, and theatre. Her writing has appeared in The Guardian, SMH/The Age, Harper's Bazaar, and Mama Mia. She worked in NYC for ten years as a playwright before returning to have a baby solo via donor sperm - which is the subject of her memoir, Inconceivable.
Connect on Instagram @alexandracollierwrites or her website alexandracollier.com
Connect with Carina at Working Mumma
Download free resource: '3 steps to sharing the mental load'
Join the waitlist for the Working Mumma Village
Follow Working Mumma on LinkedIn or connect with Carina on LinkedIn
Instagram: @workingmummacommunity
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Every two years, Women's Agenda publish the "Women's Ambition Report". For this episode, I speak with Angela Priestley, publisher and co-founder of Women's Agenda (a publication for career-minded, time-poor women who want to stay ahead of the conversation).
During this chat, we discuss the report's key findings, trends on the future of work, and the opportunities for change to support female workforce participation and improve the experiences of women in the workplace.
Some statistics from the report include:
* 77% of women are experiencing burnout, and a leading factor is overwhelm in balancing career and home responsibilities
* 42% said that burnout could hold them back from reaching their career ambitions over the next two years
* Although self-confidence has reduced from 50% to 41% it is still a barrier for success amongst women
It is an interesting report and validating for many of the results are feelings and experiences working mothers have felt, especially over the past 3 years.
Read the full Women's Ambition 2023 report on the Women's Agenda website here
Connect with Angela & Women's Agenda
Website: womensagenda.com.au
LinkedIn: Angela Priestley
Connect with Carina at Working Mumma
Free resource: '3 steps to sharing the mental load'
Join the waitlist for the Working Mumma Village
Follow Working Mumma on LinkedIn or connect with Carina on LinkedIn
Instagram: @workingmummacommunity
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Anecdotally we know what commonly happens to a woman's career after she has a child. But, what are the facts? That question is what this week's guest, Jessica Heagren asked herself and decided to find out. Jessica is based in the UK, and early this year released the 'Careers after Babies' report on what happens to a woman's career after she has a child.
This is a really interesting and insightful conversation talking about the key findings of report, the impact on working mothers, and the role organisations play in supporting and retaining women.
We talk about:
* What was the inspiration and motivation for the report
* Key findings of the report
* Advice for women to minimise the impact of up to 10 years for a mother's career to recover after having children
* How organisations can better support female workforce participation and close the gender pay gap
* What Jessica sees as the future of work for parents
and sooo much more. The report has sooo much in it and it was great to unpack this with Jessica.
Connect with Jessica
Download 'Careers after Babies' report and connect with her on LinkedIn
Connect with Carina at Working Mumma
Free resource: '3 steps to sharing the mental load'
Join the waitlist for the Working Mumma Village
Follow Working Mumma on LinkedIn or connect with Carina on LinkedIn
Instagram: @workingmummacommunity
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In this episode of Working Mumma, we delve deep into a topic that's close to the heart of every working mum: boundaries. Join me as I explore the misconceptions, challenges, and strategies surrounding the art of setting healthy boundaries while juggling the demands of a career and family life.
During this episode, I chat about:
Understanding boundaries and the common misconceptions The work/life challenges we face and the value of knowing your why and core values The different types of boundaries Strategies for setting boundaries at work Strategies for setting boundaries at home The critical connection between boundaries and your mental well-beingUseful tips to help you along the wayBoundaries are also linked with mindset so please remember you are doing great mumma. Cut out the noise and do what is best for you and your family.
Best of luck in review your boundaries. I'm always here to help if you need.
Connect with Carina at Working Mumma
Free resource: '3 steps to sharing the mental load'
Join the waitlist for the Working Mumma Village
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/working-mumma
Instagram: @workingmummacommunity
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This week on the podcast I speak with two amazing people who are advocates for gender equality, Coleen Mackinnon and Rob Sturrock. We all spoke very passionately about improving gender equality, and how fathers can play an active role and share the load, their own experiences of parenting and having a career.
Topics we covered include:
* The systemic barriers that are impacting gender diversity
* The gender norms that have contributed to gender inequality both at home and in the workplace
* How parents can overcome some of the biases they experience
* What support is needed for working parents
* Why we should be supporting and encouraging fathers to take parental leave
* How to challenge and change traditional thinking on the roles of a mother and father within the family unit
* Rob's experience as an advocate for gender equality
* And so much more
I loved this chat and felt so inspired after and I hope that this episode resonates with you. We all have our part to play to help change the narrative and Rob is a great example of how fathers can change the story and traditional gender norms.
About Coleen MacKinnon
Coleen MacKinnon is a DEI specialist passionate about accelerating progressive social change. She is the Founder of Sydney-based Inclusivity Quotient (InQ), a boutique consultancy specialised in authentically engaging men in co-creating safe, respectful and high-performing workplaces.
Contact Coleen via LinkedIn or her website inclusivityq.com.au
About Rob Sturrock
Rob Sturrock is an author and working father. He has written widely about his experiences of being a working dad and juggling the responsibilities of home and work. Contact Rob via LinkedIn and check out his book 'Man Raises Boy'.
Connect with Carina & Working Mumma
I'd love to connect with you on Instagram @workingmummacommunity or on LinkedIn Carina O'Brien and Working Mumma.
Download the Free '3 steps to sharing the mental load' checklist
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When we discover that we are pregnant, so much of the focus goes toward the child's birth. Once this life-changing event has happened, that is when we most need our village to surround us with support. Learning how to care for a newborn, recovering ourselves, and navigating this new world is challenging; it's when we most need the village around us. Planning for postpartum is crucial as I chat with Dr. Renee White, founder of Fill Your Cup, Australia's first biochemist-led Doula Village.
We chat about:
* Why postpartum planning is important and share our own experiences
* The key challenges and common misconceptions
* How you can prepare for postpartum planning
* Why we need a village to help raise a mum
* The role of self-care in postpartum planning
And so much more. Renee and I share our own experiences and challenges becoming a mum and how we navigated this period.
Connect with Renee White and Fill Your Cup via Instagram @fillyourcup_ and website
I'd love to connect with you on Instagram @workingmummacommunity or on LinkedIn Carina O'Brien and Working Mumma.
Download the Free '3 steps to sharing the mental load' checklist
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Today I'm speaking with Laura Campbell who has over 20 years of corporate experience, founder of Hackerlily, is mum to two children, and suffers from a chronic illness.
During this episode Laura shares:
* Why she and her husband decided to move back to Australia after living in the UK for 16 years and her experiences of the transition
* The impact of having a chronic disease since childhood on her career and motherhood
* Her experience of starting her own business and entrepreneurial journey
* How motherhood has changed her career perspectives
* How Laura now manages the work/life juggle
* The value of community
We had lots of fun recording this episode and we hope you enjoy listening.
Connect with Laura on @_hackerlily, LinkedIn, or via the Hackerlily website.
I'd love to connect with you on Instagram @workingmummacommunity or on LinkedIn Carina O'Brien and Working Mumma.
Download the Free '3 steps to sharing the mental load' checklist
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