Motherland Australia

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Hosted by Stephanie Trethewey. Motherland shares real, raw and unbelievable stories of motherhood from ladies on the land. Each week a mum from somewhere in regional Australia shares her story including an honest account of what it's like raising kids in the country. You'll hear stories of true gri…

Stephanie Trethewey


    • Jun 9, 2024 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekly NEW EPISODES
    • 47m AVG DURATION
    • 233 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Motherland Australia

    224: Why Emily Mealey is so grateful her mum insisted she went to the doctor

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2024 40:28


    Today's episode is special for two reasons, firstly, it's our last episode of our Autumn season, proudly sponsored by Nutrien Ag Solutions. Secondly, you're about to hear Emily Mealey's story, and she's a Senior Account Manager in Insurance at Nutrien, and a mum of two. She's based in Dubbo,  and met her husband at the tender age of 18 after having a minor car prang! Financially as a young family, things were tough, really tough, but Emily and her husband made it work. A few years later Emily found herself in a very dark place, and very stressed, and today she talks openly about that time and how she got through it. A warning, this episode touches on mental health including suicidal thoughts, so if you or anyone you know needs help please contact Lifeline immediately on 13 11 14.Whether you're starting your career, are already established in agriculture or are looking for a change, Nutrien may be a great place for you to work and explore opportunities across a broad range of career paths wherever you're based in rural Australia. Check out their careers page at  www.nutrienagsolutions.com.au/careersPhysiotas offers high-quality Physiotherapy, Exercise Physiology, Myotherapy, Remedial Massage and Clinical Exercise Services. Their health practitioners are available across six clinics throughout North Western Tasmania with telehealth services also available to rural and remote clients. Head to physiotas.com.auhttps://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    223: Veteran journalist Chris Bath swapped life on TV for time in the tractor

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2024 62:59


    Chris Bath has been a much loved and respected journalist since the late 80's and many of us, including myself, grew up watching her on our TV screens. She's interviewed Presidents, Prime Ministers and popstars, and pushed herself way outside her comfort zone when she carved up the dance floor on Dancing with the Stars! Chris met her husband Jim Wilson at work. The news anchor fell in love with the sports anchor, it's like something out of a movie, and very funny! In 2015, Chris resigned from Channel 7 where she'd worked for 20 years, and before she knew it, she'd fallen head over heels for another industry... farming. She's got one grown up son, and now lives full time on a farm in the Lower Hunter in NSW...she's an accidental beekeeper with an incredible love for the land. How she ended up here is quite the tale, and you're going to love her! This is her story. Nutrien is proud to be going further for Australian farmers by continuing to create meaningful partnerships and invest in the communities that are the backbone of Australian agriculture. They invested more than $2.8 million in our communities in 2023 alone.  Learn more about Nutrien's commitment to our communities HERE Embrace the power of Ello Botanical's special range of facial oils and say goodbye to winter skin woes. Enter the code MOTHERLAND20 for an exclusive discount.  Shop online HERE.https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    222: The unimaginable pain Tara Parchert has been through... twice.

    Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2024 47:44


    Tara Parchert lives in the Lockyer Valley in Queensland, and runs a vegetable operation with her husband. She's busy raising two little girls, but has given  birth to four. Tara fell pregnant with identical twin girls. After some pregnancy complications, she delivered them at just 26 weeks.  Everything seemed to be going okay until 5 weeks later, when one twin got an infection... she didn't make it. Tara and her husband Had to grieve one child, while support the other one who was still fighting in NICU. In her second pregnancy, a heartbreaking 20 week scan left Tara and her husband with an unimaginable decision to make. She lost another baby girl. This episode is a really tough one, it covers the loss of a child, pregnancy termination and miscarriage. We've listed some support services below. While these conversations are never easy and Tara has never shared her story like this, she's doing so in the hopes it will help others, reduce some stigma, while also honouring all four of her children. Red Nose Grief and Loss  24/7 Support Line 1300 308 307birthline.org.au/counselling/ 24 hour counselling line 1300 655 156Nutrien Ag Solutions is recognised as a leading rural employer, where rural mums and their families in regional and rural Australia, can grow their careers, across a diverse range of roles and specialities. Whether you're starting your career, are already established in agriculture or looking for a change, Nutrien may be a great place for you. To find out more, head to Nutrien's careers site here.https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    221: Clinical psychologist Rebecca Gilchrist gave birth on a plane

    Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2024 54:08


    Rebecca Gilchrist is a clinical psychologist who has a passion for supporting rural women; and she's pretty well placed to do that give she's also a rural mum and a farmer based on a 6th generation sheep and cattle station. Bec had her first baby on a plane; yep, on a plane, mid air when she was just 33 weeks pregnant. It was a very traumatic experience for her, although at the time, no one else knew that. In our chat, you'll hear about how her professional training has helped her, particularly with the crippling anxiety she felt returning to the farm with a premmie baby, and the psychoeducation tools that can help all of us. We also chat about navigating the different seasons of motherhood, well after the baby years, including dealing with overwhelm. This is her story.This episode touches on birth trauma; if you need support, head to https://birthtrauma.org.au/Nutrien Ag Solutions is proud to be partnering with CareFlight to deliver FREE Emergency Trauma Training to 180 locations across rural and regional Australia. This vital training provides you with the skills and confidence to deliver life-saving assistance in a trauma situation. Contact your local branch manager or click HERE for more details.https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    220: How a burst appendix nearly cost Ella Palmer her fertility

    Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2024 60:36


    Ella Palmer is a nurse, and a mum of three who lives on a cropping and sheep farm in South Australia. Her motherhood journey has been heavily impacted by what happened to her when she was just 10 years old. After weeks of ongoing sickness and a misdiagnosis, Ella was in the fight of her life after her dad checked on her in the middle of the night to find her nearly unconscious. Unbeknownst to everyone, her appendix had ruptured three days earlier. Little Ella was in the fight of her life, with a widespread infection that resulted in her losing a fallopian tube, and left scarring all over her reproductive organs. Ella's story has a very happy ending, but it's been really tough. She's experienced miracle pregnancies, hours of travel for IVF, as well as PTSD from her job, and postnatal depression. This is her story. This episode discusses mental health including PTSD and postnatal depression. If you need support, contact PANDA on 1300 726 306 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.Nutrien Ag Solution has an incredible Graduate Program, designed for top talent who seek a performance-based culture built solidly on integrity, safety, inclusion, and results across regional and rural Australia. So whatever your career interest - and no matter how old your kids are- Nutrien has you sorted with a multitude of opportunities including flexible and remote work arrangements. Applications for 2025 are now open  at www.nutrienagsolutions.com.au/careers https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    219: Why country music artist Raechel Whitchurch wrote a song about her miscarriage

    Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2024 55:10


    Raechel Whitchurch writes songs about things that matter. Her childhood was spent performing in her family band and instilled a connection to rural Australia. She spent most of her early years living in a caravan while travelling and performing, before establishing herself as one of Australia's most promising new country artists. Her debut album ‘Finally Clear' debuted at #1 on ARIA Australian Country Charts, and her highly anticipated sophomore album, ‘what a time to be alive' will be released later this month.  I sat down with Raech to talk about motherhood, rural life, and importantly, why she wrote a song about her miscarriage. This is her story.Warning: this episode discusses preganancy loss. If you need support, please contact Red Nose Grief and Loss who offer a 24/7 support line on 1300 308 307Nutrien Ag Solutions is proud to partner with Dolly's Dream to raise awareness of the important services and support they provide to young people and families being impacted by bullying. Remember, This Friday is Do It For Dolly Day - join the Nutrien team this Do It For Dolly Day by wearing blue and sharing their message of kindness #BeKind.https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    218: At 56, Sophie Love's husband left, now she runs the farm alone

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2024 55:24


    *A quick heads up, this episode contains some coarse language, and also discusses mental health and suicidal thoughts. If you or anyone you know needs help, contact Lifeline immediately on 13 11 14. Sophie Love  runs a small farm near Port Macquarie in New South Wales. She bought it herself aged 40, while single, and childless. She never thought she wanted kids, until, well, she did... after meeting a man she went on to marry. Soph has always dreamed of running her own property, and against all the odds, she made it happen. But her fairytale life with her husband and son on the land came crashing down with the breakdown of her marriage just two years ago when she was 56. The pressure of drought, floods and fires, along with other circumstances had worn them both down- and when her husband left, never to return, Sophie hit rock bottom. At one point, she was on suicide watch. I learned a lot of other things about Sophie in our chat- including the fact she used to be a vegan for 20 years! Nutrien Ag Solutions. Nutrien provides incredible career growth and opportunity through their 2 year graduate program. Opportunities are open in finance, digital or agronomy (to name just a few!). Applications for the 2025 intake open next month in May. Head to https://www.nutrienagsolutions.com.au/careershttps://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    217: Everything changed after Kate Mitchell's toddler had a seizure on their property

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 21, 2024 53:18


    Kate Mitchell fell pregnant with her first child just six months after meeting her husband in a rather unique way, while playing lawn bowls! They now have three children, and their third, their little boy Darcy, changed everything. As far as they could tell, he was a happy and healthy toddler, when at 16 months old he suddenly had a seizure on their sheep farm on the south coast of WA and nearly died. Kate had to give her own baby CPR as she desperately phone for help, with the phone signal dropping in and out. Darcy was eventually diagnosed with epilepsy, and it's been one hell of a journey. In our chat, Kate opens up about why she created The Darcy effect, which provides hospital care packs for rural and remote families and raises awareness of vital medical and paediatric services, plus you'll also hear the heartbreaking reason they decided to their farm last year. This is her story.Whether you're starting your career, already established in agriculture, or looking for a change, Nutrien Ag Solutions may be a great place for you to work - wherever you're based in rural or regional Australia. To learn more about career opportunities at Nutrien, head to the link in today's show notes https://www.nutrienagsolutions.com.au/careers https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    216: Farm life wasn't always a laughing matter for first time farmer Kaitie Nash

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2024 48:25


    Some of us know Kaitie Nash from Instagram, she proudly calls herself 'the first time farmer', and is part of a growing number of farmfluencer mums online, sharing real, relatable and often hilarious content about life on the land. But farm life hasn't always been a laughing matter for Kaitie. She moved to her husband's family property in the middle of a drought, while still adjusting to motherhood with two very young kids. Her mental health plummeted and in our chat she opens up about her very personal journey with that. Kaitie has been a lot of things, even a flight attendant! Farmer was never part of the plan. Today, you'll hear all about the ups and the downs, plus what happened when she got bitten by a snake when she was home alone with the kids. This is her story.If you or anyone you know needs help, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 A big thanks to our Autumn season sponsor Nutrien Ag Solutions who proudly support the communities, families, local clubs and organisations which are the backbone of rural and regional Australia. In 2023 alone Nutrien invested more than $2.8m in rural and regional communities, with over half of that invested locally through their branches and directly into communities supporting agriculture.Check out Nutrien's Community Impact Report HEREhttps://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    215: How Lisa Booth from Booken Blend rebuilt her life after rock bottom

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2024 64:18


    In 2016, Lisa Booth designed and built an eco-friendly home on a tight budget, on a small block of land. A couple of years ago, after her social media exploded, she quit her job to help other families build the same dream through her business - Booken Blend. Lisa's life looks picture perfect on Instagram, but she is an incredibly down to earth and authentic woman with rural roots that have both broken her as well as pushed her to rebuild after rock bottom.  Lisa was born on a dairy farm, grew up on the land, married very young after a whirlwind romance,  and had two young kids when the stress of farm life in the midst of a drought led to cracks in her marriage. She eventually left her husband, and started over. It was incredible tough, but her story has a very happy ending. In this chat, Lisa also opens up publicly  for the first time about her surprising addiction that helped her cope through her toughest times on the land. Hint- it's legal, and it's not alcohol. This is her story.*Please note this episode contains some course languageThis episode has been brought to you by our Autumn season podcast sponsor Nutrien Ag Solutions. Nutrien focuses its investment and support on our rural and regional communities which are the backbone of ag. We are so excited to share more about Nutrien including stories from the team over the next 10 weeks - so stay tuned! You can follow Nutrien on social media HERE, or head to their website www.nutrienagsolutions.com.au to discover the hundreds of branches they have peppered across regional and rural Australia.https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    214: Laura Robson's car crash escape & how the RFDS supported her

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2024 45:46


    Laura Robson is a mum of two and is originally from the UK, but found herself marrying a farmer and moving to a remote cattle station near Boulia, Queensland. Laura's journey on the land has been full of twists and turns, and the RFDS (Queensland Section) have been a constant support to her and her family in times of need. Given how isolated they are, they've relied on access to an RFDS medical chest, and Laura was extremely lucky to survive a traumatic car accident in the bush, and was flown to hospital by the Flying Doctor. The RFDS's primary healthcare clinic has also been critical for Laura during her two pregnancies, when her only other option was to drive four hours to access the prenatal support she needed. More recently, Laura and her family navigated a harrowing time when her husband was diagnosed with testicular cancer. Laura's story is raw, honest, and a testament to the incredible work of the RFDS. This is Laura Robson's story. For more information on the RFDS and all the services they offer, CLICK HERE https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    213: How an over the counter medication cost Kate McKittrick her eyesight

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2024 52:08


    Kate McKittrick is based in Mudgee, NSW, and has three adult children (including twins). As her kids were growing up, her focus was on supporting them through boarding school, until one day it was Kate who needed all the support. After taking some very common over the counter medicine to help with the cold she thought she had, she had a severe allergic reaction. The outcome was catastrophic. A rare immune response caused her skin to blister and peel, and she spent 3 weeks in the burns ward, but unbelievably, the worst was yet to come. Weeks after leaving hospital, Kate lost her right eye, and her sight in the other is slowly deteriorating. Despite facing a potential future in the dark, Kate's story is still one full of hope and light. This is her story.  The RFDS (Queensland Section) support mental health in regional and rural Australia through a range of FREE mental health resources - available to individuals and families who are struggling with their mental health, going through challenging times or just needing some everyday mindfulness. Check out these free resources HEREhttps://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    212: Jo Mahony has spent the past 20 years savings lives with the RFDS

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2024 44:12


    Jo Mahony who has worked for the RFDS over 20 years as a Nurse Manager at their Charleville Base, one of 23 national Flying Doctor bases around the country. Jo is also a rural mum, and her story provides a special insight into the work that RFDS nurses, doctors and clinicians do that directly impacts so many of rural families. Countless rural women and their families utilise their vital aeromedical and primary healthcare services as they navigate life on the land. Today, Jo gets to do something a bit unique. She gets to tell her own story, and share her life working across remote Australia, while also opening up about how she's balanced life as a wife and mum to her three daughters. This is her story. Thank you to the Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section) who are our Summer season sponsor. It's regional, rural and remote nurses just like Jo who support countless families through the RFDS's vital aeromedical and primary healthcare services every year. For more inspiring stories, check out the Flying Doctor podcast - it's a wonderful listen .https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    211: GP Bronte Appleton stopped breastfeeding to have a double mastectomy

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 25, 2024 57:23


    Bronte Appleton is a country GP who lives in Gunnedah in rural NSW. She's a mum of two, and a breast cancer survivor. She was diagnosed when her second baby was just 6 months old, and heartbreakingly she was still breastfeeding when she made the decision to have a double mastectomy in a bid to save her life. Bronte also suffered from intense antenatal depression and experienced extreme loneliness after moving to Gunnedah. She joined a mothers' group, but found the balance between being people's friend and doctor, incredibly hard.  I think you'll love this raw and honest conversation. This is her story.Grab your RFDS Rescue Swag here - a premium first aid kit that has everything you need to keep you and your family safe on your property. For a limited time apply the code MOTHERLAND to receive 15% off. Get 15% off all your parenting and baby essentials at The Memo when you spend $100 or more. Use code MOTHERLAND at checkout to redeem. This offer is valid until 27 March 2024. T&Cs and exclusions apply. Valid for new customers only.https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    Episode 210: Kate Pearce had twins, then her cousin and her best friend moved in

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 18, 2024 52:33


    Kate Pearce lives on a sheep farm in the Southern Flinders Ranges of South Australia with her husband and 5 year old twins. Her motherhood journey takes the saying 'it takes a village' to a whole new level. It took Kate three years and 9 embryo transfers to have her twins, who were born at 28 weeks, weighing just 1 kilo each. What followed was a three month stay in hospital before she finally brought her babies home to the farm. Then, just as she was adjusting to life with newborns, Kate's cousin and  best friend moved in... and what happened next can only be described as a  bit of a circus! This is her story. Everyday, the RFDS holds more than 68 clinics across rural Australia.  From immunisations, health check-ups, referrals or management of chronic conditions, RFDS primary health services mean there is regular medical assistance when needed for people living and working remote Australia. Head to the Flying Doctor HERE to find an RFDS Primary Healthcare Clinic near you. https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    Episode 209: Why Erin Mackley adopted three children

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 11, 2024 64:13


    Erin Mackley left the city for an adventure on a remote cattle station where she met her future husband. They eventually moved to rural Victoria and were excited to start a family. But at just 31 years of age, Erin was diagnosed with breast cancer, and just when she thought she beat it, two years later it has spread to her spine. Not only was Erin in the fight of her life, but she was also desperately trying to preserve her fertility. Until now, Erin has never shared her story publicly, and what she's been through is unimaginable. After being told she couldn't carry children of her own, she explored the surrogacy route which ended in heartbreak. Then, when almost all hope was lost... three special children came into her life; siblings that Erin and her husband adopted three years ago. This is her story.From the Australian made, water resistant Premium Rescue Swag which will keep your family prepared and safe, to the cutest dog coats which will see your fur babies look the part - the RFDS have a gift for everyone. Check-out the range HERE and apply code MOTHERLAND for 15% off all Rescue Swag First Aid Kits and the extended RFDS merchandise range for a limited time.https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    208: Fiona Simson on life, love, and her NFF legacy

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 4, 2024 44:20


    There aren't many of us who haven't heard the name Fiona Simson. Fiona Simson became the first female President of the National Farmer's Federation, and recently stepped down after an incredible 7 years at the helm.  She's had an amazing career to date; I've read the articles, I've met her, and I've watched her passionately advocate for the industry. But on a personal level, it's rare we hear more about her life. Fiona is also a mum, and a grandma, a journey that began when she was living in the city, and a friend set her up with a country boy. We chat life, love, business and motherhood, including how times have changed, and why some rural mums have lost their villages. The RFDS (Queensland Section) is giving away an incredible prize pack worth over $700 that includes an RFDS Premium Rescue Swag, RFDS Australian Merino Wool Blanket, RFDS cap and RFDS mugs. To enter, click THIS LINK and tell us why you love the RFDS. https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    207: The day Emma Groat's toddler walked into a fire pit

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 28, 2024 45:04


    Emma Groat is a mum of three and lives on a beef property north of Roma in Queensland. After a reasonably straight forward IVF journey with her first child, it took an unbelievable 10 rounds to conceive their second, before something very unexpected happened with their third. In 2019, Emma's youngest Max had a horrifying accident, walking into a fire pit that from the night before, suffering extensive fourth degree burns on his feet that required multiple surgeries and a 6 week stint in hospital. It all happened as Emma and her husband were navigating a drought. This is her story. Don't forget to grab your RFDS Rescue Swag - a premium first aid kit that has everything you need to keep you and your family safe on your property. For a limited time apply the code MOTHERLAND to receive 15% off.  All proceeds from swag sales go back into supporting the Flying Doctor's vital services. https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    Episode 206: Shanna Whan on rebuilding after rock bottom

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 21, 2024 92:21


    Shanna Whan is the rural woman, founder, CEO, and face behind Sober in the Country, a nationally respected grassroots not-for-profit, shifting the entire conversation around booze in the bush. Shan almost lost her life to trauma-linked alcohol addiction a decade ago and then chose to use her second chance to advocate for other rural and remote people just like her. In our very candid chat, we cover everything from Shan's childhood in Zimbabwe, her struggle with addiction, Sober in the Country's impact, and the toxic 'mummy wine culture'. Motherhood is also something we touch on, and it's very difficult for Shan to talk about.  She's always wanted to become a mum - but never got the chance. A  warning: today's episode touches on mental health, suicide, trauma, and sexual assault. Lifeline 13 11 14 Sober in the Country: www.soberinthecountry.orgFamily Drug Support 1300 368 186Family Member Help: 1300 660 068The RFDS Queensland Division is increasing access to mental health services in regional and rural Australia through the development and distribution of their new book ‘Mental Health and Wellbeing on the Land'. You can now access this FREE resource here.  Or register to be sent a copy of the book by emailing outback@rfdsqld.com.au.https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    Episode 205: Anna Brown was pregnant with her third child when her husband died

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2024 49:15


    In 1989, Anna Brown visited a remote property in the Northern Territory which led her on an adventure that changed her life. She went on to nanny at Newcastle Waters Station, owned by the Packer family at the time...It's there she met her future husband Geoff. Years later, their fairytale turned into heartbreak. Anna was seven months' pregnant with their third child when Geoff died suddenly at age 32. Unbelievably, just a couple of years later, Anna also lost her brother in an accident. Anna and her children eventually made the move to Bathurst, where she picked up the pieces, and established her recruitment business, Anna Brown Recruitment. Anna is very bravely sharing her story with Motherland, including how she survived the unimaginable, and the heartbreak of leaving the station and starting a new chapter. This is her story.Summer Season sponsor: the Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section). The RFDS runs Mental Health and Wellbeing Services across Australia which helpsregional, rural and remote people through tough times. To find a service near you, or to access any of their free online resources, please head to the RFDS website HERESpinifex Recruiting specialises in the agriculture and agribusiness sectors with a team that boasts over 20+ years of experience, who can assist in recruiting farmhands through to General Managers. Search current roles or learn more at spinifexrecruiting.com.au or follow @spinifexrecruiting on socials. https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    Throwback: Bestselling author Toni Tapp Coutts on her extraordinary life in the top end

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 7, 2024 38:13


    Toni Tapp Coutts grew up on a cattle station in the Northern Territory as the eldest of 10 children. She's an author who wrote a bestselling memoir about her childhood on the legendary Killarney cattle station. Her stepfather was cattle king Bill Tapp, and for the first few years of family life on the property there was no electricity and Toni and her siblings slept under the stars in swags. She was just five. Toni went on to raise her own kids in the gulf country, 600km from town. She's had a varied career, from station life, to campdrafting, running a clothing boutique and now, real estate. Toni has been with her husband for nearly half a century! It's been quite a ride. This is her story.https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    Throwback: Olympia Yarger on maggots, motherhood, & marrying a marine

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2023 50:40


    This is the chat that got Olympia Yarger all fired up! Olympia is the CEO of Goterra, a waste management company that manages food waste with robotic maggot farms.She's a farmer who calls herself the 'maggot lady', and boy is she kicking goals after being named the ACT's Australian of the Year 2023. Olympia's backstory is fascinating. After losing her first child in a tragic accident on her farm, she moved to the US to escape, but ended up staying there for 14 years after she married a marine.  Her husband did six combat tours in 12 years, and being a military wife was challenging for Olympia to say the least. Olympia is unapologetically herself, and we had a fascinating conversation where she opened up about things she doesn't often talk about publicly, so if you've listened to Olympia before, and if you've seen her recent media interviews, those chats are nothing like this one. This is her story.https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    Throwback: Channel 7 star Edwina Bartholomew & her growing connection to the country

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 24, 2023 43:23


    Edwina Bartholemew has been a journalist for more than 20 years and I'm sure you're all familiar with her from Sunrise. What you might not know though is Edwina's growing connection to the country.  Her and her husband Neil bought a small farm in the Capertee valley of NSW which they set up as a boutique accommodation business. Neil, who has a background in tech, became an accidental farming after moving there for a whole year to set it all up. When covid hit, Edwina, Neil, and their little girl Molly bunkered down there for months. Since then, Edwina has welcomed another child, and it was a thrill hear more about her life behind the TV screens. You'll hear how motherhood has given her a higher purpose, why her and her husband sleep in separate beds, and why she's selling her Sydney home, to invest in a country community! This is her story.https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    Throwback: Emma Hawkins on farm life & parenting with her AFL-star husband

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 17, 2023 55:29


    Emma Hawkins is a mum of three, a business owner, and a digital influencer who lives on a farm just outside of Geelong. As a born and bred country girl, the land has become her quiet sanctuary away from the thundering roar of footy crowds and the prying eyes of the media. She had to get used to all that quickly after marrying her high school sweetheart, AFL star Tom Hawkins. I felt like Emma and I could have talked forever, so strap yourselves in because we cover a lot and we laugh a lot too!You'll hear all about her love story with the 'Tomahawk', through to her motherhood journey, and the isolation she felt during covid when Tom was whisked away to a quarantine training hub for two months. Plus- the hilarious reason why Emma refuses to ever own sheep again! This is her story.https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    204: Why blogger Sophie Hansen moved to Italy for food

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2023 46:26


    Sophie Hansen is a mum of two teens, and she's a food writer living on a farm near Orange in New South Wales. She met her husband through an R.M.Williams magazine (that's a story!) and life on the land is not what she had planned. Sophie grew up in the city and after working in food magazines,  had her own Eat Pray Love experience when she packed up and moved to a rural community in Italy for a few years which inspired her love of slow and seasonal food. Fast forward to today, and she's created a big brand (and lots of books) which all started with a simple blog from the farm. Soph's story is a fitting way to wrap up a big 2023 for Motherland....we also talked about how to take the pressure off ourselves and survive the chaos of Christmas! This is her story. ProviCo Rural are leaders in Animal Nutrition and 100% proudly Australian owned. Founded by farmers in 2003, ProviCo understands the unique challenges our farmers face. ProviCo Rural is stocked in over 500 stores nationally, to ensure that farmers have access to the highest quality animal nutritional products and support for their successful farming operations. Visit their website at www.provicorural.com.au or connect with them on Facebook and Instagram: @provicorural.https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    203: Leila McDougall's journey from farming, to fashion, to filmmaker

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 3, 2023 47:06


    When Leila McDougall finished school, she left the land and headed to the big smoke to study fashion design. But it wasn't long before the country came calling again, and she settled down in rural Victoria with her husband. Since then, Leila has had two children; she's navigated mental health challenges most of her life- her parents have also struggled. Leila had just had her first child, when her mum attempted to take her own life. Leila is a fierce mental health advocate for rural Australia, so much so that she's made a movie to shine a light on mental health on the land. "Just a Farmer" may be a fictional movie, but with Leila as the lead character, it brings with it some very real and powerful messages. This is her story.Give the gift of craft this Christmas with R.M.Williams. Shop their festive gift guide full of thoughtful, handcrafted and Australian made gifts that promise a lifetime of adventures. Explore the full collection now at rmwilliams.com.au.https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    202: The day a snake tried to eat Emma Jackson's son

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2023 40:31


    Emma Jackson has lived in the Cape York Peninsula for more than 20 years. She's originally from North Manchester, and the transition to life in rural Australia was a bit of a shock, not to mention the fact that yes, a snake tried to eat her son one night... but there is much more to her story!  Emma has four kids, and is in the thick of navigating the teen years. Mental health has been a huge focus for her family, especially after her nephew took his own life shortly after finishing year 12. That led Emma to start the Conquer the Corrugations charity walk. In 2021, Emma saved someone's life, which is why she was named the 2022 RFDS Queensland Hero. We cover a lot in our chat. This is Emma's story.Give the gift of craft this Christmas with R.M.Williams. Shop their festive gift guide full of thoughtful, handcrafted and Australian made gifts that promise a lifetime of adventures. Explore the full collection now at rmwilliams.com.au.The King's School is one of Australia's largest boarding communities and has welcomed boys from Regional Australia for nearly two hundred years.Applications are now open for King's 2025 Scholarships and Bursaries for Years 7 to 11. Visit www.kings.edu.auhttps://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    201: How Maggie Mackellar rebuilt her life after her husband died

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2023 45:23


    Maggie Mackellar is a writer, living on a fine wool merino farm on the east coast of Tasmania. Maggie didn't grow up on the land, but her family's strong ties to farming were her saviour during the hardest years of her life. Maggie's husband suicided more than 20 years ago. At the time, she had a five year old and was pregnant with their second child. In  the same year, Maggie lost her mum. She escaped the city and sought refuge at her aunt and uncle's property to figure out her next steps. What happened over the next eight years, was not what she had planned. Her writing career flourished... and amongst it all, she found love again through the most unexpected way. In our chat Maggie reflects on grief, mental health, motherhood, and importantly, what's it's like in this new chapter of motherhood- with her children now grown up! This is her story. Give the gift of craft this Christmas with R.M.Williams. Shop their festive gift guide full of thoughtful, handcrafted and Australian made gifts that promise a lifetime of adventures. Explore the full collection now at rmwilliams.com.au.The King's School is one of Australia's largest boarding communities and has welcomed boys from Regional Australia for nearly two hundred years.Applications are now open for King's 2025 Scholarships and Bursaries for Years 7 to 11. Visit www.kings.edu.auhttps://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    200: Fiona Waters on raising a transgender teenage girl in rural Australia

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2023 72:17


    Fiona is a dairy farmer based in Deniliquin, NSW. She's one of seven children and grew up in a very loving catholic family. Fiona went on to have four children of her own, all boys, but it wasn't long before she realised her third son, was a bit different. At first, it was easy to brush off his desire to dress and act like a girl as a bit of fun, but as the years went on, Fiona and her husband realised this was very real- and it was life threatening. At 13, Fiona's son told her he was transgender, born with a body he said he simply couldn't live with much longer Since then, it's been a roller-coaster for the whole family to say the least.  And for Fiona, she's had to navigate so many emotions- shock, fear, grief- and immense love, all that the same time. From it all, Alice has emerged.... Alice is now 16 living happily as a transgender teenage girl. This is Fiona's story. Give the gift of craft this Christmas with R.M.Williams. Shop their festive gift guide full of thoughtful, handcrafted and Australian made gifts that promise a lifetime of adventures. Explore the full collection now at rmwilliams.com.au. Get 15% off when you spend $100 or more at The Memo. Use code MOTHERLAND15 at checkout to redeem. It's your parenting & baby destination with gifts for every age, stage, price and personality. This offer is valid until 20 Nov 2023. T&Cs and exclusions apply. Valid for new customers only.https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    199: How Anthea Fellows coped after her husband ended up in a Chinese prison

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2023 55:16


    Anthea Fellows is a mum and a grandmother and over the past few decades she's worked tirelessly doing community work across various organisations and charities.  Anthea has been married for 35 years and her life has been anything but dull. At 22, she left the Adelaide Hills and moved to a cattle station just outside Alice Springs where she met a jackaroo, and, well, you know what happened next! Anthea had two children and struggled with her mental health at times. Her husband was also battling his own demons, and after 14 years of station life, they decided to leave the property and were gone within a week. There was a twist I didn't see coming in our chat though, just eight years ago, Anthea's husband ended up in a Chinese prison. And Anthea's response to him being jailed... took me by surprise to say the least! This is her story.Discover the art of fine leather craftsmanship at Saddler & Co - offering simple, elegant, practical and beautifully crafted leather goods that will endure from one season to the next. Order in time for Christmas and enjoy 15% off when you apply or mention code MOTHERLAND [Valid until Nov 27]https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    198: Karla Williams on growing up with deaf parents & managing postpartum rage

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2023 61:04


    Karla Williams lives on a dairy farm in Tassie, she's a nurse and a mum of two little boys, and over the past two years I've grown to know her and love her through our Motherland Village group. To understand Karla's motherhood journey, you have to understand her childhood. Her parents are deaf, and Karla was just 10 months old when she first learned to sign which is how she communicated with them. In many ways, Karla was a mother and a carer, before having children of her own. And when she did start her own family, her experience with her first child was everything she'd hoped for. But a few months into her second pregnancy, she started to experience bouts of rage, and things got worse after she welcomed her second son. Karla is so incredible brave and vulnerable... she shares the heart-stopping moment she knew she needed help, and how finding support through our village and the Gidget Foundation saved her. The Dr Golly Sleep Program, designed to equip parents with reliable sleeping skills for newborns through to preschoolers. Visit www.drgolly.com for more information on both Dr Golly's sleep program and his new book “Your Baby Doesn't Come With a Book” and receive $20 off the Dr Golly Sleep Program when you use code MOTHERLAND20 at checkout.https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    197: Kate Pianto's experience with ADHD is not what I expected

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2023 54:10


    Kate Pianto is one of my dearest friends. She's in my Motherland Village group, and over the past two years I've had the pleasure of getting to know this amazing woman. But I'll be honest, sitting down with her for this podcast was a bit shocking at times, because she said things I've never heard her say before. Kate has ADHD and was only diagnosed when she was 26. She was seeing a psychologist at the time for postnatal depression and was in a really really dark place. Interestingly, ADHD actually helped Kate thrive as a first time mum, she had an incredible first year before things got very difficult for her. As someone whose partner has ADHD, I found our chat so enlightening and helpful. It's not been easy for Kate to manage ADHD alongside motherhood, her marriage, and her mental health. A quick warning, today's episode does discuss suicidal thoughts, and pregnancy loss. If you or anyone you know needs help, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14. Get 15% off all your parenting and baby essentials at The Memo when you spend $100 or more. Use code MOTHERLAND at checkout to redeem. This offer is valid until 20 Nov 2023. T&Cs and exclusions apply. Valid for new customers only.https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    196: Caitlyn Power is ready to talk about the worst day of her life

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2023 68:51


    Yesterday was International Pregnancy and Infant Loss Day, and to honour all those parents who have lost a baby, I wanted to bring you a very special, but difficult episode today. It's personal, because Caitlyn Power is my friend. She's in my Motherland Village group which has been going strong for two years now. Caitlyn has four children- her third, Maggie, was delivered stillborn at full term just a couple of months after Caitlyn connected with our rural mothers' group. It shattered us all. It's very rare we hear from mums who have had to navigate the devastation of still birth. It's not a comfortable topic, and this is a extremely difficult conversation, but it's one that both Caitlyn and I believe is important - to raise awareness and to support other mums who may have gone through something similar, because Caitlyn didn't have that support when she lost Maggie.Warning: Today's episode might be extremely triggering for anyone who has lost a baby- please decide if you feel ready to hear this conversation.  If you need to talk to someone, please contact SANDS who offer a 24/7 Bereavement Support Line: 1300 308 307Whether you're experiencing the identity shift of new motherhood, or planning your return to work, The Motherhood Space is a book you can turn to time and time again as you pass through each phase in your parenting journey. Published by Hardie Grant Books, it's available online and in bookstores now. https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    195: Annabel Tully was 29 and pregnant when she got breast cancer

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 8, 2023 53:09


    When deciding whether to pursue teaching or nursing, Annabel Tully flipped a coin, it landed on teaching, and that's what brought her to the bush where she found love.  Annabel and her husband have five children, most of them are adults now, but at one point, years ago, Annabel was terrified they'd grow up without a mother.  At just 29, what Annabel thought was just a blocked milk duct turned out to be breast cancer. She was pregnant at the time and had to go straight into two surgeries.... one to remove the cancer, and the other, an emergency- c-section to get her baby out before she went straight into chemotherapy treatment. Annabel finally beat it and was cancer free for 5 years before she got the cruel news no one saw coming.  October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Annabel is particularly passionate about sharing her story. This  is a conversation every woman needs to here, young or old. This is her story.Julia O'Connell Styling offers personalised intimate styling packages right in the comfort of your home. She's your girl to get your wardrobe sorted! Remember to mention 'Motherland' for your chance to win one month free styling at free styling membership at cropsandsequinsstyling.com.auhttps://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    194: Brodie Game realised she'd hit rock bottom at 3am while milking her cows

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 1, 2023 47:14


    Brodie Game lives on the far south coast of NSW on dairy country, and she loves her cows, I mean loves them! She's up at 3am milking every morning, living her dream. It's been a tough road though. Over the past 10 years, Brodie and her husband have grown their own herd from 2 cows, to more than 300, but there have been times they've nearly lost it all, or wanted to walk away.  Brodie's children were really little when they went through a horrific drought and had to sell half their herd. Then, one of their farms burned and they lost cattle in the 2019/2020 fires.  Her husband was at breaking point, struggling with his own mental health, while Brodie tried to hold it together for him and the kids. But just when everything finally got better on farm, Brodie crumbled.  Her story is about the power of vulnerability, the importance of looking after ourselves, and what we can all focus on as Australia heads into El Nino, with an uncertain season ahead for so many of us.  This is her story.Ello Botanicals 1st Birthday this week! To celebrate Ello are giving away a FREE bottle of their luxury facial oil with any online purchase to thank you for your support. Go to wwww.ellobotancials.com make any purchase, for a limited time add an extra bottle to your cart and a discount will automatically apply with FREE shipping!https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    193: Why Emily Bryant filed for divorce just 12 months after saying 'I do'

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2023 52:16


    Emily Bryant lives on a cattle station south of Katherine in the Northern Territory. Career wise, she was on fire in her 20s, moving from station cook to head stockman, to station manager in just a few years. Emily lived and breathed work- she admits she was married to her job. In that time, she fell head over heels with a bloke who she went on to marry. But at just 26, a year after saying 'I do' - she was divorced. So what happened? This isn't a story about a dramatic break up or a scandalous affairs, simply a young woman who made a choice to walk away. The 'D' word is not something we talk much about- but it happens, to many couples. And for Emily, you'll hear why being married to her best friend wasn't enough.. and how hard it was to end things, and face the social isolation and judgement that came with that. And finally... what it was like finding love again...she's now balancing station life with three kids, and a fourth on the way! This is her story.Little Meme is offering our listeners 25% off all their products - just head to www.littlememedesigns.com and apply the code ‘motherland25' and follow @littlememedesigns on Instagram.  Little MeMe Designs is a small bush business with a big heart. They create high quality, leather footwear for babies and children - along with a small range of hats.  https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    192: Steph Wurst had three young children when they lost everything in the Black Summer Fires

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2023 56:37


    Stephanie Wurst was born and raised in the city, and unexpectedly met a farmer on the dancefloor, and soon found herself moving to Kangaroo Island! Steph and her husband Tom went on to have three kids where she had to adapt quickly to the realities of living remotely with limited services. She was flown off the island to have her first baby, and nearly lost her second child during labour. But after all that, as a mum of three, Steph thrived- she loved motherhood, and she grew to adore life on the land. But on January 3rd 2020, Steph and her family lost everything in the Black Summer Fires... their home, most of their farm, and half their livestock.  Steph's story is one of heartache, but it's also about rebuilding and the silver linings that can come from unimaginable loss.  Steph also has some important advice to share when it comes to preparing for bushfire season. Grab your tickets to Motherland's National Conference which will be held in Launceston, Tasmania on March 1st & March 2nd 2024. With epic speakers including Giaan Rooney, Maggie Dent & Sam Bloom you don't want to miss Australia's biggest rural mother's group! BOOK NOWhttps://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    191: Alice Woods had three miscarriages in a row during the peak of Covid

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2023 53:57


    This week, I'm very pleased to introduce you to Motherland's Queensland Ambassador Alice Woods. Alice is based on a farm near Goondiwindi, she's a trained vet, and spent more than 4 years in a long distance relationship with her now husband Dave, until they finally settled down on his family's farm. The journey to parenthood was not easy. After having her first little boy through IVF, Alice had three miscarriages in a row...and if living rurally wasn't isolating enough, it all happened during the peak of covid. Before I had my miscarriage, I had no idea what to expect, and like Alice, being so unprepared for what happened physically only intensified the emotional trauma. Alice has bravely shared the raw reality of her experience,  in the hope it helps someone else.  Just a warning, parts of this episode might be triggering for some. PAEDS Education  is offering 10% off their online baby and child first aid course which has been developed with rural families in mind. Visit www.paeds.education and apply code 'motherland'. https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    190: Josh Borowski stepped up, manned up, & became the partner and father he needed to be (Part 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2023 51:23


    Last week, we heard Steph Borowski's story, and today, you'll hear my very candid interview with her husband Josh. Josh is the first bloke I've had on this show, and this is one of the most important interviews I've ever done, because while my focus is on supporting rural mothers through Motherland, I felt it was time to hear a father's perspective to help close the loop. Josh is ready to talk. He's ready to share how initially becoming a father scared the hell of him, how he struggled with farm life and the pressures of drought, all while navigating family life.  Josh honestly took my breath away at times with his depth and his vulnerability. He believes men have lost their way, and that it's time for fathers to step up and man up. And when he says manning up, it's not what you think. This is his story.  If you're ready to take control of your legacy  – Neilson and Co Legal is your trusted partner. You can Louise on 0401 783 134 to schedule a consultation or visit their website at www.neilsoncolegal.com. Mention Motherland and get 10% off estate planning services. https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    189: Why I interviewed Steph Borowski AND her husband (Part 1)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2023 47:33


    This is the two-part episode I'd argue every mum and dad needs to listen to. In Part 1 today, I speak to Steph Borowski, and next week, you'll hear my chat with her husband Josh- the first man to be on Motherland. Steph met her husband in L.A, fresh out of school, they were both young actors chasing a dream. Fast forward a few years, and they settled on Josh's family farm in North West NSW, where life got pretty tricky once they had children. Josh, like so many farmers, was working around the clock, rarely home for that dinner/bathtime routine, and emotionally unavailable in so many ways. Steph felt what many of us have felt at some point as mothers... alone, frustrated, and at times,  unsupported by our partner. There was a moment where Steph snapped, and it changed everything, from her marriage to her mental heath. In this very honest and raw discussion, Steph, opens up about what happened when she realised she needed help, and what happened when she asked her husband to step up.  This is her story. If you're ready to turn your farm office chaos into a place of calm and control and you want support and proven tips, tools and tactics to embrace this journey and create a farm office that works like clockwork – start by signing up to Alison Hamilton's weekly newsletter https://alisonhamilton.au/  or join The Functioning Farm Office Group on Facebook.   https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    188: The heart wrenching decision Sarra Riddick had to make to save one of her twins

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2023 59:03


    Sarra Riddick and her partner tried to have a baby for three and a half years, before she finally fell pregnant with their twin boys, Heath and Hunter, through IVF.  But after a devastating 20-week scan, Sarra and Jarrad had to make the toughest decision of their lives, terminating one of the twins, to give the other the best possible chance of survival. Sarra had to go through an unimaginable emotional rollercoaster after birthing her boys, experiencing joy after welcoming Hunter, who was rushed to NICU, while at the same time, mourning Heath who was stillborn.  Living on a farm a couple of hours from Perth, Sarra then spent nearly four months away from the farm in hospital until she could finally bring Hunter home. Sarra wants her grief to have purpose, as she puts it. She wants to help other families feel less alone, and she wants you to know that her story, although heartbreaking, does have a silver lining, including her miracle baby Ollie. This is her story. Make your own MathsOnline success story. From increased confidence to improved grades, parents like Lisa and Mark have seen it all. Try MathsOnline for free at www.mathsonline.com.au and experience the difference it can make.https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    187: Why Melissa Duniam turned to horses after a life-changing farm accident

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2023 58:53


    Melissa Duniam lives on the far north west coast of Tasmania and has spent the past 20 years in the dairy industry. When she was 18, she fell pregnant with her first daughter and soon after, became a single mum after her relationship ended. Melissa once vowed she'd never marry a dairy farmer, but that's exactly what she went on to do a couple of years later after falling in love with her now husband. She had two more daughters, and navigated some intense highs and lows during early motherhood. Horses have always helped Melissa through the toughest moments of her life, and her biggest battle came in October 2016 after she was seriously injured in a side-side-by side accident on the farm.  Physically and emotionally it's been an ordeal, with Melissa struggling with PTSD for a long time after the accident. That set her on a huge personal development journey where she leaned into her horses, and now helps others through her business, Leading Rein. Melissa is flying the Tassie flag this year as the state winner of the AgriFutures Rural women's award. This is her story. MathsOnline offers comprehensive lessons and adapts to your child's learning style. Help your child thrive in maths and experience a surge of confidence! Visit www.mathsonline.com.au to start your FREE trial today. Watch as MathsOnline turns struggles into triumphs!https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    BONUS: Simone Heng on loneliness & the five types of human connection we all need

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 8, 2023 43:35


    This week is Australia's first ever Loneliness Awareness Week. It's a national epidemic and through Motherland's work, we know there are so many rural mums out there who are struggling with feelings of loneliness and isolation. Simone Heng is a human connection expert. Her new book, Loneliness- Let's talk about it, details her personal struggles with loneliness, but it's also an incredible guide on how we can kick loneliness to the curb for the sake of our health and our families. Simone grew up in Australia and has since lived all over the world. In 2013, one phone call changed her life. Her mum had a severe stroke which left her paralysed and Simone dropped everything to be by her side and spent the next six months of her life cleaning her mother's house (her mum has hoarding disorder). Simone was isolated from the outside world and experienced the worst loneliness of her life, which set her on her current path of helping others.  In our chat, we get stuck into the hard stuff... and Simone shares the FIVE types of human connection we all need in our lives. Connect with Simone here https://simoneheng.com/https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    186: Maddie Staff on birth trauma & how a broken leg tore her family apart (Part 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2023 46:05


    In last week's episode, we heard about Maddie's incredible highs and lows before she became a mum, and in Part 2, you'll hear about the rollercoaster she went through after birthing her little boy. She suffered a traumatic 24 hours after having her son, even passing out on the table in theatre. Her journey into motherhood wasn't what she imagined, and while things eventually go better, they, unbelievably, got a whole lot worse again. Last year, Maddie snapped her leg in two places and ended up in hospital for two months. The cruel twist is that she was separated from her son and her fiancé for 6 weeks. The details are pretty heartbreaking. The silver lining to Maddie's story.... she's now planning her wedding (finally!). This is her story.Warning this episode discusses birth trauma and mental health. If you need support, please contact birthtrauma.org.au or Lifeline on 13 11 14. Simplify the complexity of maths homework with MathsOnline. Replace those puzzled frowns with confident smiles, one solution at a time. Visit www.mathsonline.com.au and spark up your free trial today. Delight in your child's newfound enthusiasm and remarkable progress!https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    185: Maddie Staff on finding out she was adopted, & surviving two abusive relationships (Part 1)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2023 43:27


    Maddie Staff lives on a station on the NT/WA border, and in this first part of her story, she opens up about losing her mother from breast cancer when she was just 18 months old, then years later finding out she was adopted. You'll hear what happened when she met her birth mother, plus how she found her birth father and slid into his DMs on Facebook. Maddie has also navigated two very toxic relationships, one that involved a miscarriage, and she also shares how she turned to alcohol to cope when she hit rock bottom.  There is so much more, but for now, here's part one with Maddie staff. Part 2 will be released next week!WARNING: In today's episode we discuss abusive relationships and we also talk about Maddie's experience with mental health. If you or anyone you know needs support, please contact 1800 RESPECT which is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, as is Lifeline on 13 11 14 Don't let Maths homework end in tears. Mathsonline offers a free trial, which will turbocharge your child's grades and make learning much more enjoyable. With Mathsonline, homework help is just a click away. Visit www.mathsonline.com.au today. Your child's journey to better grades starts now!https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    184: How a fax machine on the farm changed Georgie Somerset's life

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2023 40:16


    Georgie Somerset is a rural industry leader and a trailblazer. While a lot of us know her as the president of AgForce, and her many board roles including the ABC, and the National Farmers Federation, it's what she did decades ago that I've loved digging up. Georgie is one of the pioneers of agri-tourism. Growing up the land, she was just 17 when she set up a farm stay business on her family farm, later establishing national farm tourism body. After working in the city for a while, she eventually moved to her husband's farm, taking her fax machine with her, and used it to run her business, working remotely in the 80s and 90s well before Covid made it cool! Georgie has raised three kids on the land  who are now all grown up, and she takes us through how she's managed it all. This is her story.Book your stay now at www.staydubbo.com.au or contact Ange at ange@staydubbo.com.au or 0428 470 657.Special Motherland discounts:Short stays < 7 nights use MOTHERLAND10 (10% off)Long Stays > 7+ nights use MOTHERLANDBABIES ($100 OFF YOUR STAY)https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    183: Bronnie Taylor's journey from rural nurse, to the most senior female in the NSW Government

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2023 55:09


    Bronnie Taylor has been in the public life 10 years, four as a cabinet minister, and two as the most senior female in the NSW Government.  Until her party lost the election in March, she was the Minister for Women, the Minister for Regional Health and the Minister for Mental Health. She's now the Deputy Leader of The NSW Nationals and the shadow Minister for Regional Health.  But that's just a taste of her political CV. What I had the privilege of discovering is the real Bronnie Taylor, the Bronnie who spent years as a nurse working in oncology and palliative care- fighting to bring services to her region in the Snowy Mountains. Bronnie fell in love with a country boy in year 12 who later became her husband. Together, her and Duncan have raised two girls on the farm, and it's been a wild ride. In our chat, Bronnie opens up about motherhood, farm life, her passion for rural health, and what it's like to be on the  receiving end of political and personal attacks. This is her story. DediKate offers short & effective online workouts for rural and regional women. The DediKate team will encourage you every step of the way and there's something for everyone including HIIT, weights, boxing, yoga, pilates, cardio, pregnancy and postpartum. Head to www.kateiveyfitness.com/dedikate/mateau to get your 7 day FREE trial. https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    182: After Georgia Lillie's husband died, she wrote a book in his honour

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2023 40:49


    At just 19, Georgie had finished school, bought a house, and met James... the man she wanted to spend her life with. Fast forward a few years, and her and James had gotten married, and were busy raising two beautiful boys on his family's farm. Life was pretty picture perfect, until it wasn't. In 2017, James was diagnosed with terminal cancer and was given just 6 to 12 months to live. In our chat, Georgia bravely shares her story including what it was like losing her husband, what she told her kids, why she decided to stay on the farm, and the heartbreaking, but beautiful, inspiration behind the children's book she wrote which is called 'My Dad is an Eagle Now. This is story.Are you a rural, regional, or remote business owner looking to turn your passion into profit? Look no further than EJS Business Services. Their bespoke bookkeeping and profit strategy services cater specifically to your unique needs. Contact Emily today at https://www.ejsbusinessservices.com.au/ and connect on Instagram.https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    181: Humanitarian Gemma Sisia left rural Australia for a life in Africa

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 2, 2023 49:59


    Gemma Sisia grew up on a sheep and cattle property in northern New South Wales, as one of eight children. After finishing school, she went to Africa to teach... that was 22 years ago and she's never looked back! Gemma met her husband on safari (that's a cracking story) and had four children. You'll hear about the incredible cultural differences and how she was treated after having her babies over there. Amongst it all, Gemma had a dream to build a school that would support some of Africa's poorest children. In 2002, she established the School of St Jude in Tanzania which provides free, high-quality education to thousands of children. She is a true humanitarian and what she's done is remarkable.  And it all started with just a couple of acres. This is her story. Motherland is very proud to launch the Motherland Village Scholarship fund which will enable 20 rural mums who are experiencing financial hardship, to access our mother's group program free of charge over the next 12 months. We're very grateful to have the support of Thankful4Farmers for this project.  Applications are open now at motherlandaustralia.com.au/scholarshipWe're now taking enrolments for our October 0-3 years program! https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    180: Alice Greenup almost lost it all after a horrific horse riding accident

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2023 46:23


    Alice Greenup grew up in Melbourne, and when she finished school, she went travelling on a gap year, got a job as a governess on a cattle station, where she fell in love with a jackaroo. At the time, she couldn't tell tell a cow from a bull, and how things have changed! Today Alice and her husband, Rick who have three teenage children, run one of Australia's largest seedstock businesses, supplying bulls and cattle to the Australian beef industry. 10 years ago, Alice wrote a memoir detailing the ups and downs of her transition to life on the land. It includes her near death experience, the morning she almost lost it all, when her horse bucked her out of the saddle in remote bushland.  This is her story. Sometimes you have enough on your plate. The idea of delivering an event with all styling and promotion to go with it seems way too much!  So -outsource it to the rural, regional and agricultural events specialists –GRO Events Group. Book your free initial event consult at https://www.groevents.com.au/https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

    179: Sue Barclay's epic fight for life after being diagnosed with untreatable ovarian cancer

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 18, 2023 44:55


    Sue Barclay lives 500 kilometres west of Sydney and over the past 12 months she's visited the big smoke far more than she'd like. Sue got out of the shower one night with a frightening symptom that changed her life. She was diagnosed with untreatable ovarian cancer, but refused to give up and sought a second opinion at Sydney's Royal Hospital for Women. Since then, she's made the trip back and forth to the hospital 17 times, in the fight of her life. At one stage, when her station succumbed to flooding, she was even helicoptered out by her neighbour so she could get to her chemo session. Sue wants to share her story to raise awareness for the Hospital Foundation's fundraiser ‘Heart for Her' which takes place this month. This is her story. Ello Botanicals facial oils are your go-to for an all natural healthy glow. Find them on Instagram @ellobotanicals and receive 20% when you use the code MOTHERLAND20.  https://ellobotanicals.com/https://www.instagram.com/motherlandaustralia

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