A Double Life

DISCLAIMER: This episode contains discussions of domestic violence, which may be distressing or triggering for some listeners. Please take care while listening. This is a story I've rarely shared, one that's stayed with me for years. I once hired a woman who, at first glance, looked like she'd come off the streets but she was kind, brilliant, and incredible at her job. Over time, she opened up about being in an abusive relationship and later admitted she was homeless, living in a shelter. I didn't know how to help, but I knew we had to try. As a team, we supported her. We helped her find a safe home, and slowly, her life began to change. She was happy. Then one day, she didn't show up. No message. No call. We went to her house and saw her cat distressed in the window. We called the police. When they entered, they found she had passed away. Her death remains a mystery, and the grief has never left me. This experience is part of what drives Meke Baby and A Double Life. We want to honour and support the unseen mothers—those facing crisis alone. We're using our platform to raise awareness and ask for your help, so no one in that position feels invisible again. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence (DV), it's important to access the resources and support available.  Here are important details regarding 1-800 RESPECT, which is the national sexual assault and domestic violence counseling service in Australia: 1-800 RESPECT Details Phone Number: 1-800-737-732 (1-800 RESPECT) Website: 1800respect.org.au

DISCLAIMER: This episode contains discussions of domestic violence and murder, which may be distressing or triggering for some listeners. Please take care while listening. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, support is available. 1-800 RESPECT Phone Number: 1-800-737-732 (1-800 RESPECT) Website: 1800respect.org.au At just 13 years old, Lili Greer lost everything. Her mother, Tina Greer, vanished in 2012. The victim of a violent and controlling relationship. Tina was just 32, only eight days away from her 33rd birthday. For the past 13 years, Lili has lived without answers, carrying not only the weight of her mother's disappearance but also the trauma that came before it. Determined to honour her mother's memory and fight for justice, Lili founded The Tina Greer Project, created to shine a light on Tina's story and to confront the broader national crisis of domestic violence, homicide, and missing persons. After a successful campaign for a coronial inquest, the Project is now focused on advocacy, education, and driving real systemic change. Because relying on the system to fix itself is no longer an option. The time for action is now.

Simone shares her powerful and emotional story of surviving a horrific domestic violence attack. After meeting a man online while raising three children and working two jobs, what began as a charming relationship quickly turned controlling and manipulative. Despite early red flags, Simone stayed until she finally ended the relationship—only for him to show up days later and brutally assault her in her home. Left with a shattered arm, brain injuries, and just a 3–5% chance of survival, Simone was placed in an induced coma. After years of surgeries and recovery, she now bravely speaks out to raise awareness about domestic violence and the importance of trusting your gut. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence (DV), it's important to access the resources and support available. Here are important details regarding 1-800 RESPECT, which is the national sexual assault and domestic violence counseling service in Australia: 1-800 RESPECT Details Phone Number: 1-800-737-732 (1-800 RESPECT) Website: 1800respect.org.au This podcast is proudly presented by Meke Baby & Oli6 Connect with Meke: Website: https://mekebaby.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mekebaby.au   Connect with Oli6: Website: https://www.oli6.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oli6toddler

Postpartum anxiety can affect anyone, regardless of their background or success. Carly worked with a highly accomplished businesswoman known for her control and ability to handle anything. But after the life-changing experience of motherhood, she was taken completely by surprise when postpartum anxiety developed.

Motherhood isn't about comparison, as Madeline says, “Your hard is your hard.” It reshaped her identity, but over the years, she's been finding her new self.  The challenges you face as a parent aren't permanent, they're all part of the journey. 0:00 – Your heart is your heart—it doesn't have to be anyone else's. 1:00 – Motherhood cracked me into a million pieces. 2:00 – Picking up those pieces and finding the new me. 3:00 – The power of stillness and perspective. 4:00 – This season is hard, but it's not permanent. 5:00 – Gratitude filled my entire body. 6:00 – Dropping my son to a daycare he loves. 7:00 – My daughter was thriving, and I was doing work that fueled my soul. 8:00 – Carrying guilt during my second pregnancy. 9:00 – Sleep deprivation and dark thoughts. 10:00 – My breaking point: an emergency surgery. 11:00 – Sitting in the darkness while holding gratitude. 12:00 – My parents' support was a turning point. 13:00 – Simple acts of self-care started to rebuild me. 14:00 – Gratitude and perspective became my superpowers. 15:00 – Returning to myself through small, intentional moments. 16:00 – My son's anaphylactic reaction—another challenge. 17:00 – Sleep deprivation changed who I was. 18:00 – The turning point at 12 months—finding hope. 19:00 – Letting go of expectations that didn't serve me. 20:00 – Gratitude for a thriving family and a fulfilling career. 21:00 – It's okay to feel the hard moments deeply. 22:00 – Finding the new version of yourself as a mother. 23:00 – Self-care is essential—it shapes who you become.0:00 – Your heart is your heart—it doesn't have to be anyone else's. 1:00 – Motherhood cracked me into a million pieces. 2:00 – Picking up those pieces and finding the new me. 3:00 – The power of stillness and perspective. 4:00 – This season is hard, but it's not permanent. 5:00 – Gratitude filled my entire body. 6:00 – Dropping my son to a daycare he loves. 7:00 – My daughter was thriving, and I was doing work that fueled my soul. 8:00 – Carrying guilt during my second pregnancy. 9:00 – Sleep deprivation and dark thoughts. 10:00 – My breaking point: an emergency surgery. 11:00 – Sitting in the darkness while holding gratitude. 12:00 – My parents' support was a turning point. 13:00 – Simple acts of self-care started to rebuild me. 14:00 – Gratitude and perspective became my superpowers. 15:00 – Returning to myself through small, intentional moments. 16:00 – My son's anaphylactic reaction—another challenge. 17:00 – Sleep deprivation changed who I was. 18:00 – The turning point at 12 months—finding hope. 19:00 – Letting go of expectations that didn't serve me. 20:00 – Gratitude for a thriving family and a fulfilling career. 21:00 – It's okay to feel the hard moments deeply. 22:00 – Finding the new version of yourself as a mother. 23:00 – Self-care is essential—it shapes who you become.

For the first time ever, Elysia is joining a double life to discuss this important topic, because no mother should feel judged for doing what's best for her and her baby. Women continue to face guilt and judgment for their choices, whether they choose to breastfeed or formula feed. Too often, societal expectations and outside opinions create unnecessary pressure, making mothers feel like they have to justify their decisions. The reality is that every mother's journey is unique, shaped by personal circumstances, health considerations, and what works best for both her and her baby. True support should focus on offering guidance, compassion, and reassurance, ensuring mothers feel empowered to make the choices that suit their families rather than feeling pressured to follow one prescribed path. [00:03.2] Breastfeeding was so special, and I cried when I had to stop both times. Nutrition during the first thousand days is crucial. [02:12.6] I love how raw A Double Life is. It's a different experience for me since I'm not in the spotlight. [05:09.2] A pediatric dietitian can guide you on formulas and their differences. [06:50.3] Formula won't compare to breast milk, but it's important to talk about it openly. [08:31.4] In Australia, all formulas meet basic nutritional criteria but suit different families. [10:26.9] I had to switch from organic to goat's milk formula, which made a huge difference. [13:23.5] Room temperature formula is safer, but it's a personal preference. [15:22.3] Always follow the manufacturer's instructions, and seek dietitian guidance if unsure. [17:04.2] Toddler formula can help fussy eaters or those with immunity struggles. [18:16.5] Get young kids interacting with veggies to help them appreciate them. [19:00.1] Small changes can help fussy eaters accept new foods. [20:22.7] It's easy to be hard on yourself when your child won't eat veggies. [21:55.4] I believe exposing my daughter to different foods early helped. [23:32.6] As a new parent, you overanalyze things, but trust yourself more with time. [24:06.1] Trust your instincts when it comes to feeding your child. [25:08.7] Parenting is a journey, but you're making great progress. [25:40.8] Be kind to yourself and keep going! [26:17.3] Anyone who's been through the early years with a child will relate. [26:52.7] Every little step forward is a victory. [27:40.4] It's about building your village and keeping up the great work. [28:17.2] Take it day by day—you've got this! [28:51.8] Thanks for sharing. I appreciate it. [29:08.0] Great conversation! Take care! [29:23.1] We're all in this together—keep going!

Melanie's journey began with a life changing visit to an orphanage, where she was swarmed by kids craving love. Over ten years, she fostered around forty children, but everything changed when she took in a baby. That little one was then returned to her birth mum, but the experience planted a seed. She wondered if she would have a child of her own and how she would navigate pregnancy in her late thirties. Letting go was heartbreaking, but somehow she found the strength to foster again. She always says it is the hardest thing she has ever done but also the best.  [0:00] I remember visiting an orphanage, and it changed everything for me. The kids were starved for love and attention, and it broke my heart. [2:30] I came back to Melbourne, and I asked God what to do with this. Over 10 years, I fostered 40 kids. The idea of taking in a baby came to me, and I felt this deep calling. [5:00] When I finally got a baby, I was like, "I didn't expect this." The authorities asked if I'd keep her permanently. I wasn't planning on it, but I thought, "Why not?" [7:30] Then they told me she'd go back to her birth mum. That moment made me realize, I wanted to adopt. I thought, "I can't let this little girl go." [10:00] I spent two years recovering from the fear of losing her, and then I knew I was called to foster again. It was the hardest thing I'd ever done, but it was also the most rewarding. [12:30] Hi, I'm Melanie McGrice. I became a Christian at 29, and I thought I was going to go into missionary work. But I think God had a different plan for me. [15:00] So I went to the orphanage, thinking I was going to stay long-term. But when I saw how the kids were so desperate for love, it broke my heart. [17:30] When I came back to Melbourne, I started my business. I was doing things with faith, leadership, and mission. I also trained dietitians in fertility and pregnancy, all while supporting Compassion's mother-baby centers and fostering kids. [20:00] And then I heard a story on the radio about fostering. I looked it up, and that's how it all began. I started with emergency cases, and eventually, I fostered 40 kids.

After spending $12,000 on egg freezing, she was heartbroken to collect just one egg. Determined to become a mother, she quit her job to focus entirely on IVF. When she finally saw those two lines, she could finally breathe again. Love creates a family, and her journey is one of resilience and hope. 0:00 - Struggling with fertility challenges at 36, unsure if having kids is in my future. 2:00 - Collected only one egg during the process, spent $12,000, and felt completely heartbroken. 4:00 - I was lost and didn't know what to do next, questioning my entire path. 6:00 - I was too stressed so I quit my job todo IVF full-time. 8:00 - It wasn't clear if it was obsession or just a strong determination to fall pregnant. 10:00 - At 43, I knew time was running out, and I had to take action quickly. 12:00 - I had always dreamed of having a kid who looked like me, but that dream seemed far away. 14:00 - IVF was my hope, and starting the journey felt like a step toward making that dream come true. 16:00 - After 10 IVF cycles, the emotional and physical toll was overwhelming, but I couldn't stop. 18:00 - My hormones were all over the place, and it affected my relationship with Nick in difficult ways. 20:00 - You can be a mother in so many different ways and my story is just one story of resilience of never giving up and yeah you can. You can have your beautiful babies and beautiful miracles step over comfort zone. 

In 2014, Madi Browne was at the top of her game as a professional netballer, but behind closed doors, she was trapped in a toxic marriage. From questioning her future, feeling like a prisoner in her own life, and battling career-ending injuries, to finding herself in an unexpected relationship with a woman that redefined the meaning of love—Madi shares how she rebuilt her life. This raw and powerful story is about heartbreak, resilience, self-discovery, and learning to back yourself when the world feels scary.

Caterina Discusses the time she struggled with finding a partner and starting a family due to work commitments abroad. She decided to take matters into her own hands and freeze her eggs. She began this journey alone with the help of a donor she does not know. After facing a miscarriage at 9 weeks with the first embryo transfer, to then becoming pregnant with twins during her second transfer, Caterina had recognised her strength and knew it was a challenge she could face alone.

In this episode, Laura reflects on the emotionally challenging experience of their child's health crisis just before Christmas. The care team informed them that their child had not been able to breathe without a ventilator for the critical period necessary for quality of life, raising difficult questions about the child's potential and the possibility of having another child in the future. As they navigate their loss, Laura shares that grief is a complex and ongoing process, particularly as they approach the anniversary of their child's passing. Despite the heaviness of this grief, they find solace in their daughters and take pride in teaching them to remember and honor their deceased brother. They emphasize that, while God's plan may not always be clear, trusting the process and seeking out the light in difficult times is essential.

In this episode we meet Lucy Young, the founder of ‘BumpStrong', a mother of infant twins and a toddler. As a corrective exercise specialist and certified pre and postnatal exercise specialist, Lucy hopes to empower women through their fitness journey. Lucy shares her personal insights of balancing motherhood, fitness, and her physical recovery postpartum. From breastfeeding between reps to overcoming personal challenges, Lucy's story will truly inspire all. 00:00:00-Podcast preview 00:01:51-Meet Lucy Young 00:05:53-University life and competitive athletics   00:11:51-The turning point and working as an exercise specialist 00:13:06-Pregnancy, motherhood and its expectations as an athlete 00:17:50-The importance of resilience 00:21:26-Lucy's message and episode conclusion Connect with Meke: Website: https://mekebaby.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mekebaby.au Connect with Oli6: This podcast is proudly presented by Oli6 Website: https://www.oli6.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oli6toddler Connect with Lucy: Website: https://bumpstrong.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucyolympiayoung

In this episode, we meet Dena Kaplan, a devoted mother, performer and artist. Dena shares her health struggles with a debilitating medical condition called PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder), the physical and emotional pain caused by this condition and the global impact it had on her life and career. As a dynamic and dedicated performer, Dena had to make a massive lifestyle change. Join us as Dena shares her journey to recovery, hope and healing; and as she sheds light on the traumas and struggles faced along the way. You won't want to miss this! 00:00:00-Introduction 00:01:52-Meet Dena Kaplan, a mother, a performer and artist 00:06:21-Health struggles and seeking help 00:12:44-Breaking point 00:14:41-Rehabilitation 00:17:02-Journey of hope and healing 00:19:30-Finding love and pregnancy journey 00:24:57-First child 00:25:51-Dena's strength 00:27:20-Conclusion Connect with Meke: Website: https://mekebaby.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mekebaby.au Connect with Oli6: This podcast is proudly presented by Oli6 Website: https://www.oli6.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oli6toddler Connect with Dena: Website: https://www.denaamy.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denaamy

In this episode, we meet Nadia El Nahi, owner of ‘Halal n Easy' and mother to four children, three of which are triplets. Nadia details the relationship struggles she faced, from the age of 16. She speaks of her struggles as a teenager and how this translated to her marriage. Join us as we hear Nadia's inspiring journey, how she finds her voice and determination to be her whole self. {00:00:00}{Introduction} {00:01:54}{Meet Nadia owner of Halal n Easy and devoted mother} {00:03:49}{Nadia's teenage years and meeting her partner} {00:08:33}{Flying overseas to meet her partner and her marriage} {00:14:09}{Pregnancy journey and its surprises} {00:19:27}{Second pregnancy} {00:20:42}{Relationship difficulties and raising her kids} {00:23:32}{Struggles faced and the turning point of her relationship} {00:34:42}{Taking action and a fresh start} {00:38:32}{Conclusion} Connect with Meke: Website: https://mekebaby.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mekebaby.au Connect with Oli6: This podcast is proudly presented by Oli6 Website: https://www.oli6.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oli6toddler Connect with Nadia: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/halal_n_easy

In this episode, we meet Lauren a mother of four children, a Midwife and founder of ‘One Mama Midwife'. After falling pregnant at eighteen years of age, Lauren shares her learning lessons, struggles, and journey of raising her family of four. We learn how midwifery helped her find a purpose and passion in supporting women during their individual birth journey. Join us as Lauren shares her incredible journey and how her inner strength and determination guided her to pursue her dreams. 00.00-Introduction 01:50-Meet Lauren Brenton Midwife and founder of One Mama Midwife 03:40-Falling pregnant with her first son 05:15-Reaching out for support 07:56-Birth of first child and ongoing judgement faced 09:17-Tapping into her inner strength and pursuing midwifery studies 10:33-Finding a support network 12:38-Family life and midwifery journey 14:35-Conclusion Connect with Meke: Website: https://mekebaby.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mekebaby.au Connect with Oli6: This podcast is proudly presented by Oli6 Website: https://www.oli6.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oli6toddler Connect with Lauren: Website: www.onemamamidwife.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onemamamidwife

In this episode, Flo the co-founder of ‘Sisterwould' shares her experiences as a single mum; the struggles faced and how her faith and inner strength guided her to pursue her dreams. Despite the challenges she faced as a single mother, Flo's determination and strength for her children were a driving force, where her children speak of how she inspires them. Flo speaks of the importance in empowering women and single mums, and the endless possibilities to succeed. She hopes to inspire others through her journey. {00:00:00}{Introduction} {00:01:56}{Meet Flo Elmazi, co-founder of Sisterwould} {00:02:38}{University and marriage} {00:03:35}{Challenges faced and first pregnancy} {00:05:00}{Tapping into her faith and inner strength} {00:06:05}{Taking action and single motherhood} {00:09:04}{Flo's children and their relationship} {00:10:30}{Business endeavours and female empowerment} {00:11:03}{Conclusion} Connect with Meke: Website: https://mekebaby.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mekebaby.au Connect with Oli6: This podcast is proudly presented by Oli6 Website: https://www.oli6.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oli6toddler Connect with Flo: Website: www.sisterwould.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_floriye and https://www.instagram.com/sisterwould_

In this episode, we dive deep into the heart-wrenching yet inspiring story of a dear friend and Registered Nurse Stephanie Papas, navigating life with her amazing, strong, son Archie. Even though it has been an experience she never saw coming, Steph has been blessed with strength and courage. Join us as Steph shares her courageous journey, the battles she has fought, and the incredible strength she has found along the way. This is a story of resilience, hope and unbreakable love.

In this episode, we're joined by Aliza Carr, a midwife and CEO of Franjo's Kitchen, who shares her powerful and intimate story of becoming a mother and a midwife. Aliza opens up about her hopes and dreams of becoming a mother and supporting women through their journey, but her own birth story took an unexpected turn. She talks about the guilt she still carries with her today. As a new mum, Aliza faced struggles she never could have anticipated - exhaustion, rage, and overwhelming emotions. She also reflects on her relationship with her own mother and how it shaped her desires as a mother herself. Join us as Aliza shares how she's learned to find strength in her journey.

In this episode, Karla Roccuzzo opens up about her struggles with severe pregnancy sickness, the challenges of balancing a demanding business with impending motherhood, and the unexpected difficulties of the postpartum period. Despite the physical and mental toll, Karla's determination to show up for her brides and maintain her business never wavered. Her journey through pregnancy and postpartum revealed the importance of self-care and the unexpected lessons learned from her daughter, Charlotte. 00:00:00 – Meet Karla Roccuzzo, Founder of Kind of Sense 00:00:32 - The Reality of Severe Pregnancy Sickness 00:01:20 – Balancing Business and Pregnancy 00:02:49 – The Constant Hustle Before Baby 00:05:16 – Navigating Pregnancy Challenges 00:06:21 – The Importance of Self-Care 00:07:29 – Mental and Physical Struggles 00:09:02 – Planning for Postpartum 00:10:00 – The Unexpected Postpartum Journey 00:12:02 – Building a Support System 00:14:04 – Creating a Non-Negotiable Self-Care List 00:15:13 – Lessons from Motherhood Connect with Meke: Website: https://mekebaby.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mekebaby.au   Connect with Oli6: This podcast is proudly presented by Oli6 Website: https://www.oli6.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oli6toddler Connect with Karla: Website: https://www.karlaroccuzzo.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karlaroccuzzo

In this episode, Yasemin opens up about her experiences living in public housing, navigating motherhood, and coping with the loss of her son to illness at a young age. Despite the challenges she faced as a single mother, Yasemin found resilience and bravery like never before. Love became her source of strength, driving her to establish her successful business, Mikash Skincare, as a testament to the courage she found through her pain.   00:00:00 – Meet Yasemin Deniz, Founder of Mikash Skincare 00:01:35 - Life in Public Housing 00:04:16 – Discovering the Passion for Beauty 00:10:20 – From Marriage to Single Motherhood 00:11:50 – Welcoming Baby Yasin 00:12:28 – Facing a Diagnosis 00:14:13 – Love Saved Her 00:16:08 – Entrepreneurial Beginnings 00:18:05 – Navigating the Next Chapter In loving memory of Yasin. Connect with Meke: Website: https://mekebaby.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mekebaby.au   Connect with Oli6: This podcast is proudly presented by Oli6 Website: https://www.oli6.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oli6toddler   Connect with Yasemin: Website: https://www.mikashskincare.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikashskincare