THROWBACK: How to navigate unrealistic expectations of working mums with Renee Barnes
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 and unrealistic expectations.
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.
Get your free 'How to share the mental load' checklist workingmumma.com.au/mental-load/
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How to Navigate Your Return-to-Work Conversation with Your Manager
Returning to work after maternity leave isn’t just about showing up on day one. The transition starts with you going through a reflective process on your new identity, and what your terms are you want to return back to the paid workforce are. Then comes one of the most important (and often nerve-wracking) steps: the conversation with your manager.
In this episode of the Working Mumma podcast, Carina walks you through how to confidently and clearly prepare for your return-to-work conversation with your employer. We cover what is important for you, what does returning to work look like for you, flexible work options, how to plan a phased return, your legal rights (including Keeping In Touch days and breastfeeding support), and how to approach the conversation with clarity and confidence.
Whether you're 3 months out or just weeks away from returning, this episode will help you take control of your transition, whilst also managing expectations on both sides.
👩💻 In this episode, you’ll learn:
What to clarify in with your manager before returning
Flexible work: 4 types and how to request them
How to define your non-negotiables and ideal work week
Tips for negotiating return plans and support
How to use Keeping in Touch (KIT) days effectively
What to do if your company’s policies have changed
Breastfeeding and pumping rights at work in Australia
Building your confidence and setting boundaries early
Show links
Follow Working Mumma on Instagram @workingmummacommunity
Sign up for the Working Mumma newsletter
Get your free 'How to share the mental load' checklist workingmumma.com.au/mental-load/
Connect with Carina on LinkedIn
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Working Mum Math: Weighing the Cost of Career vs Childcare
Is childcare worth the cost when most of your paycheck goes straight to daycare fees?
In this powerful episode, financial advisor and mum of two, Deline Jacovides, opens up about how much she and her husband have spent on childcare over seven years, and why, despite the eye-watering figure, she’d do it all again.
We unpack the true cost of childcare in Australia, the long-term impact on women’s careers and superannuation, and the often-overlooked benefits, like career progression, independence, and child development. Deline also shares how she and her husband juggled part-time work, subsidies, and even brought in an au pair to make it all work.
This is the honest childcare conversation every working parent needs to hear.
Whether you're navigating daycare decisions now or planning for the future, you'll walk away with insights, budgeting tips, and the reassurance that your sacrifices today are an investment in your family's tomorrow.
What You’ll Learn:
How Deline spent six figures on childcare and what she got in return
The financial and emotional trade-offs of early childhood education
How to budget for childcare, including fee increases and cashflow planning
The career, superannuation, and identity costs of opting out of work
Why childcare is a family cost, not just a mother’s burden
How legislation has (and hasn’t) helped affordability for families
Show links:
Connect with Deline on Instagram @maziwealth
Listen to the previous episode of the Working Mumma with Deline "Managing the financial impact of motherhood with financial planner Deline Jacovides"
Connect with Working Mumma on Instagram @workingmummacommunity
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From Redundancy to Global Business: How Beatrice Built HeyDoodle While Raising Three Kids
In this episode of the Working Mumma podcast, Carina O’Brien chats with Beatrice Toh, mother of 3 and founder of Hey Doodle.
Beatrice shares how a career pivot during COVID turned redundancy into opportunity, sharing very openly her experiences of building a global business from her kitchen table, and what it’s really like managing the juggle of entrepreneurship with three young kids.
Beatrice opens up about the raw realities of business and motherhood, between nap times, during night shifts, the skipped maternity leave, and the joy of watching her kids thrive alongside her brand.
Today, Hey Doodle is stocked in over 850 stores and is expanding internationally, all while staying true to the values that matter most: family, creativity, and fun.
Beatrice’s story is raw, real, and full of helpful insights for any mum dreaming of more, whether it’s flexibility, creativity, or starting your own business.
Episode links
Check out HeyDoodle website or connect on Instagram @heydoodle_
Connect with Working Mumma on Instagram @workingmummacommunity or LinkedIn and check out the website for free resources.
Working Mumma is the go-to podcast for women navigating the juggle of motherhood and career, especially during the return-to-work period after maternity leave. Whether you’re preparing to head back to work, already in the thick of the transition, or in the first few years of rediscovering your professional self, this podcast is your toolkit for clarity, confidence, and connection.
Hosted by Carina O’Brien, mum of 2 boys, businesswoman, and founder of Working Mumma, each episode delivers relatable stories, expert interviews, and practical strategies to help you. You will hear from experts, leaders, and women like you who are juggling career and motherhood.
You’re not alone in this. Tune in weekly to feel supported, empowered, and reminded that you’re doing a great job.
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