Mummy Republic Podcast

Going out with a bang this season, i decided to invite Mikki Fisher back to further discuss life as a mum, mental health and a little bit of spirituality; we know it's there, we know it's important but it's also good to acknowledge that it looks different for everybody.You can find more over on instagram @mummyrepublic or via our host @danniirodgers and if you want to hear more from our special guest, you can find Mikki at @themikkifisher2.0 or her business @the.redtent xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

A few years ago the world became seemingly obsessed with organisation overnight. We all started culling our wardrobes, thanking our old clothes as we turfed them and clearing out all the storage options kmart. Fast forward to now and outside of the hype, all we really want is a practical way to stay on top of the chaos. Because it goes a lot deeper than clutter and a clean house. But with the madness of raising a family, working and living life, is it really that simple? A big thank you to special guest Steph Pase, who you can find over on IG @justanothermummyblog and @stephpaseplanners and while you're there don't forget to check out @mummyrepublic and our host @danniirodgers You can also find more of Steph's templates, tools and products at www.stephpaseplanners.com.au and www.justanothermummyblog.com xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

They say that it's a mans world and although in a lot of cases that's still true, women everywhere are starting to forge their own path when it comes to their goals and desires, throwing away any concern about what is deemed conventional. We're creating new paths, we're making waves and we're doing it whilst making babies. But the question still remains, can you really grow a business whilst growing a family? Let's have a chat about it. A big thank you to special guest Hayley Van de Ven, who you can find over on IG @hayleyvandeven_ and while you're there don't forget to check out @mummyrepublic and our host @danniirodgers xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

If we're being honest, I think we've all thought about it. Come on, I bet you have at least once. Even Katy Perry said she kissed a girl and she liked it. It's now a more open topic of conversation and slowly but surely the stigma is reducing, which is fantastic and incredibly needed. But when you've been conditioned from a young age that the normal way of life is to be in inverted commas straight, how do you know if you're actually not? Especially if you're already married, perhaps have kids…is it really too late to explore? Let's find out. A big thank you to special guest Naomi Hutchings for joining me today, you can find more of Naomi over on instagram @australiansexologistToday's episode was sponsored by Visionary Hair Australia; A certified organic range of haircare products that are Australian made with native Australian Ingredients that are sourced through indigenous farms. Not only are these fabulous products paraben, sodium and sulphate free they are also vegan and cruelty free meaning they tick all the boxes. From someone who doesn't offer recommendations lightly, I have certainly been impressed with this range of haircare, particularly the styling products. Use the code DANNII15 at checkout for a sneaky discount and make the switch today! IG - @visionary_hair_auswww.visionaryhairaustralia.com See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

We've all heard the term thirty, flirting and thriving but is there really a big difference from 2-9 to 3-0? For a lot of us it seems the answer is yes! Whether it's caring less about what others think, reducing our inner circle or having a lot less tolerance for bullshit, it seems that the introduction to our 30's is a great opportunity to do a cleanse of all habits, old ideals or even old insecurities...If you're on the gram you can follow along @mummyrepublic and our host @danniirodgers. A special thank you to today's guest @jessikawilson - you can also find Jess' business @bloomstore___ xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

We all know that there is no such thing as a normal family. With different dynamics in each household and one in 3 marriages ending in divorce, there are quite often other people outside of just your typical mum and dad involved. As someone who has been through a separation with a child, navigated the single parent life and then the integration of a step parent, i can attest to the fact that it's not always easy and there is certainly no handbook to guide you. But it's equally as difficult from the other side of the fence. Taking on the role of a step parent also has it's challenges and perhaps we need to make sure that we're giving both parties a voice... If you're on the gram you can follow along @mummyrepublic and our host @danniirodgers. A special thank you to today's guest Alida from @thesocialatlas xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

So who has it harder? The stay at home mums or the working mums?It's a debate that always sparks a great deal of passion from either side of the fence. But in a world where so many women work from home, work part time or are self employed, the categorization is no longer that clear cut. Can we not just agree that both situations have their positives and negatives and irrespective of where you land...parenting in general is hard! xxIf you're on the gram you can follow along @mummyrepublic and our host @danniirodgers. Special thank you to today's guest @missashleigh xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Birth...it can be beautiful for some and traumatic for others but in either case and in any case, it's always a hot topic of conversation. Regardless of whether you choose to do it "naturally" in the woods or elect to have a C-Section, the truth is there is no right or wrong. I'm joined today by Dayna, midwife and mother of 4 children (soon to be five) to talk all about just how unique each experience is; not only for different mothers but also for the same mother with different children.So in 2021 can we please normalise that no birth is "normal"? xxIf you're on the gram you can follow along @mummyrepublic and our host @danniirodgers. Special thank you to today's guest @daynajangles - you can also find Dayna's new business tailored to mummas at @daiisy.est.2020 and her upcoming podcast focused on birth experiences @theoxytocinhour xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

When it comes to motherhood they say it takes a village; some are lucky enough to have one, some are able to turn friends into family and others are left wondering...where the hell is my village? in 2021 we're expected to do and to be it all but it can be made a lot more difficult when you're expected to do it on your own. So let's have a chat about how to find and create your own village, whilst trying not to lose yourself in the process xxIf you're on the gram you can follow along @mummyrepublic and our host @danniirodgers. Special thank you to today's guest @nattyfaulks - you can also listen to another episode with Natty in Season 2 xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

If you watch Netflix or use social media, it's highly likely that you've heard of the new show Sex/Life. It's sparked a great deal of attention thanks to it's raunchy sex scenes, large *cough* assets and hot cast. But it's also become quite the topic between mums, not only due to all of the above but more so because of the underlying themes and the ups and downs experienced by the main character Billie.Why? Because on some level, a lot of us can relate to that journey of matrescence and trying to find the balance between who you are now as a mum vs who you used to be...even if it's not quite as dramatic as hers.In either case there is a LOT to unpack here and a lot of questions unanswered after the final episode of season one. So instead of chatting at the park whilst our toddlers play, i dragged in my girlfriend Layne (mama to twin boys) to have a debrief on all of it!!On the gram? Be sure to check out @mummyrepublic and our host @danniirodgers if you loved the episode be sure to share it with your friends and subscribe for more convos! xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

I think we're all a little guilty of being the perfect parents...before we have kids of course!That expectation vs reality can certainly be a shock to the system. Motherhood has a tendancy to have an impact on your world in all the ways; physically, emotionally, mentally, spiritually. It can be a complete overhaul of the world as you know it...and sometimes, one you didn't even know you needed.Davina Rankin and i chat about that motherhood evolution and just how much things have changed since she last made an appearance on the show in Season One.On the gram? Be sure to check out @mummyrepublic and our host @danniirodgers along with our special guest @davvyxx (including her amazing ventures @empoweredmoo and @welovebrunchco) and if you loved the episode be sure to share it with your friends and subscribe for more convos! xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Ah motherhood, it's a beautiful and magical time but it doesn't come without a lot of opinions, feedback and advice - love that for us. Today i'm joined by the wonderful Krystle Brant to chat all about the feedback you get along the journey of motherhood; whether you're trying to conceive, during pregnancy or after the baby is born, there is always someone waiting to chime in....but on behalf of mum's - just don't.Thanks to today's sponsor Everyplate who have offered the discount code: MUMMYREPUBLICPOD for 40% off your first box and 20% off the 2nd and 3rd boxes.On the gram? Be sure to check out @mummyrepublic and our host @danniirodgers along with our special guest @krystlebrant_ and if you loved the episode be sure to share it with your friends and subscribe for more convos! xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Welcome to the new sub series Postpartum Pieces; short, educational episodes with qualified professionals, designed to make your postpartum journey that little bit easier...This week we discuss Postnatal and Perinatal Anxiety. Often an overlooked topic that is not as commonly known as Postnatal Depression but can have an equally detrimental impact. We discuss what it looks like, how it might feel and what steps to take to overcome it. I'm joined by qualified Counseller and Psychotherapist Wendy Gilroy. For more information on Wendy or to take advantage of a complimentary 20 minute consult, you can find her on IG at @mindmomentumformums or via mindmomentum.com.au. Wendy has also released a course that may be more beneficial to your individual needs, linked below:https://mind-momentum.thinkific.com/courses/becoming-a-calmer-happier-mum xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Money is a topic that even in 2020 is still considered somewhat taboo and sadly for a lot of female's it's not something they have a great deal of education on. For some time there has been a mentality that we shouldn't worry our pretty little heads about it but long gone are the days where the male is the sole decision maker of the household. I sit down with financial planner Kim Hope to discuss all things money; from savings strategies to reducing your mortgage and her techniques to avoid excessive spending in a world where our money is constantly at the touch of our fingertips. You can find more of Kim over on Instagram @missmoneypenny_au xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Welcome to the new sub series Postpartum Pieces; short, educational episodes with qualified professionals, designed to make your postpartum journey that little bit easier...This week we talk about the ins and outs of returning to exercise postpartum. We discuss ab separation, pelvic floor health and working the muscles from the inside out to ensure you aren't doing more harm than good. I'm joined by the qualified Pilates instructor, Nurse and owner of Duo Pilates Alex Richardson. For more information on the Duo Pilates studio and online platform including the specialised Postpartum program, you can go to www.duopilates.com.au or IG @duopilatesau xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Motherhood comes with a whole lot of ups and downs and sometimes our own transition inspires us to help others with theirs; that's certainly the case for Nikki MCCachon. She talks us through her experience with post partum depression, which she believes was further driven by a lack of community and how it inspired her to create Mama Tribe which has now evolved into the Dear Mama Project - a space to educate and support mothers. We delve into the notion of matrescence and talk openly about how important it is to not only nurture our children during this period, but also ourselves. You can find more of Nikki over on Instagram @dearmamaproject, her podcast Dear Mama Project or via her website www.dearmamaproject.com xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Welcome to the new sub series Postpartum Pieces; short, educational episodes with qualified professionals, designed to make your postpartum journey that little bit easier...This week we talk about the modern Midwife and their perspective on postpartum guidance. We discuss expectations, relationships and the importance of trusting your gut and making space for your instincts to kick in. I'm joined by the Director of Midwifery (RN RM BN GradDipMid MMid (Research)) Lauren Williams. For more information on Lauren and Hatch Maternity you can go to www.hatchmaternity.com.au or IG @hatchmaternity xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

When we think about a child with a disability, we automatically assume that it's physical. Something we can visually see and identify; but many times it's not. It's the unseen and unheard disabilities that we tend not to discuss and as a mother trying to navigate this space, it can be very difficult. Kate Nolen has spent four years trying to understand and support her beautiful daughter who has been experienced epilepsy, ADHD and other learning difficulties. She speaks openly about her experience, the challenges, the beautiful moments and how important it is for all mothers to understand that there is sometimes more than meets the eye when it comes to a child's behaviour. You can follow more of Kate's journey over on instagram @kate.nolen xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Welcome to the new sub series Postpartum Pieces; short, educational episodes with qualified professionals, designed to make your postpartum journey that little bit easier...This week we talk about all things breastfeeding. What it really looks like, how everyone's experience can differ and debunking a few common myths that may be impacting your journey. I'm joined by Breastfeeding and Nutrition expert and qualified lactation consultant, Allegra Gast (RDN, IBCLC). For more information on Allegra, you can find her over on Instagram @aloha.nutrition or www.aloha-nutrition.com. xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Our generation is blessed with the support of medical advancements and when it comes to making a baby, IVF is no exception. But unless you've gone through the process yourself, it can be easy to misunderstand the gravity and intensity of such an experience. Bron Delaivuna opens up about her IVF journey, talking in detail not only about the medical process but the emotional, physical and mental toll it all takes, proving that it's not the "easy way out" and sometimes the risk doesn't always result in a reward. You can follow more of Bron's journey over on Instagram @bron.delaivuna or her business pages @thesoulbath @sunshinecoastdoulaservices xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Welcome to the new sub series Postpartum Pieces; short, educational episodes with qualified professionals, designed to make your postpartum journey that little bit easier...This week we talk about the transition from Boob to Food; where to start, how to do it (both spoon fed and baby led weaning) and what to be mindful of. I'm joined by Certified Nutrition Consultant Luka McCabe. For more information on Luka and her guides, you can find her over on Instagram @boobtofood or www.boobtofood.com xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains content relating to high risk pregnancy and birth traumaThis episode is slightly different, the tables are turned on me, your host, in an effort to put my money where my mouth is and share the same level of vulnerability as my guests. In fact, it's the first time i have shared some of the finer details of our pregnancy and birth out loud so excuse the rawness. At 19 weeks pregnant, our whole world was flipped upside down when we found out that our growing baby had a condition called Micrognathia...and there was a risk he would not make it. The journey that followed was one of ups and downs, neverending hospital visits, changing diagnosis's and lots of tears. Fast forward to today and we are blessed to have a thriving 8 month old boy with a condition called Pierre Robin Sequence. Although we've still got a long road ahead, we are one of the lucky ones who gets to navigate it with a beautiful little man in our arms. A big thank you to the lovely @mikhailla for being the interviewer - you can hear more from her in season 1 and 2. If you want to follow more of our journey, you can find us over on instagram @mummyrepublic xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Welcome to the new sub series Postpartum Pieces; short, educational episodes with qualified professionals, designed to make your postpartum journey that little bit easier...This week we talk about Birth Trauma; what it is, what it might look like for you and where to start when it comes to working through it. I'm joined by Clinical Psychologist and Author, Dr Erin Bowe. For more information on Erin or her book, "More Than a Healthy Baby", you can find her over on Instagram @doctorerinbowe or https://doctorerin.com.au xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Parenting is a whirlwind and can sometimes be an absolute shitshow, which is why voices like Amy Gerard's are so important. Sharing the reality of what motherhood is really like with three young kids, she is a breath of fresh air when it comes to stepping away from the comparison trap. Amy speaks openly about her journey to motherhood, how it progressed to having three kids under four and how she manages to keep a sense of humour amongst the madness! If you want to follow more of Amy you can find her over on Instagram @amy.gerard xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Welcome to the new sub series Postpartum Pieces; short, educational episodes with qualified professionals, designed to make your postpartum journey that little bit easier...This week we talk about Post Natal Depletion; what it is, how you can identify it and what to do if you believe you or someone you love is suffering from it. I'm joined by qualified Counseller & Psychotherapist Wendy Gilroy.For more information or if you would like to take advantage of the free 20 minute consultation, you can find Wendy over on Instagram @mindmomentumformums or at linktr.ee/mindmomentumformums xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In Australia, approximately 18% of women and 4.7% of men report having suffered sexual abuse before the age of 15 with majority of the abuse happening in or close to the family (based on 2019 studies).A lot of victims find it difficult to come forward but Adelle Ferguson explains exactly while. Having suffered sexual abuse at the hands of her stepfather from the age of 5 she shares her terrifying journey and the aftermath that followed after eventually speaking up. Proving that the wounds don't automatically recover when the abuse stops but with hard work, you can find a way to heal. You can follow more of Adelle's journey on instagram @adelle.ferguson xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Welcome to the new sub series Postpartum Pieces; short, educational episodes with qualified professionals, designed to make your postpartum journey that little bit easier...This week we talk about Infant Sleep; postive and negative associations, how to set yourself and your baby up for success and when to seek further assistance that doesn't focus on "crying it out". I'm joined by qualified Sleep Consultant Kristy Griffiths.For more information you can find Kristy over on Instagram @thesleepteacher or at www.thesleepteacher.com.au. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Everyone needs a hype girl right? Absolutely. But sometimes we need more than that. Sometimes we need to hear the hard truth, the type of words that spill out of someone's mouth and into your soul. The type of person who doesn't hold back because she wants what's best for you, even if you're not ready to hear it. Introducing Mikki Fisher, the self described foul mouthed hype girl. We sit down to talk a little about her journey and how it helped her to realise that she was not only more than just a mother, but more than the societal expectations allowed her to be. Warning - this episode contains regular explicit language but do your best to listen in full - the nuggets of gold are worth it. xxYou can find more of Mikki on instagram - @themikkifisher @the.redtent See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Welcome to the new sub series Postpartum Pieces; short, educational episodes with qualified professionals, designed to make your postpartum journey that little bit easier...This week we talk about the Pregnancy and Postpartum Body Image, focusing on the emotional and mental toll it can take between grieving our old body and getting caught in the comparison trap. I'm joined by qualified Psychologist Courtney Wilton.For more information you can find Courtney over on Instagram @nourished_psychology. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Motherhood is notorious for bringing out a whole other side of you...but sometimes it can show you parts you didn't even know existed or necessarily want to see. I sit down with Phoebe Shields to talk about mum rage; to further understand what it is, why it happens and why you should give yourself compassion if you've ever experienced it.If you want to follow more of Phoebe's journey you can find her on Instagram @a_mum_thing xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Welcome to the new sub series Postpartum Pieces; short, educational episodes with qualified professionals, designed to make your postpartum journey that little bit easier...This week we talk about the Fourth Trimester, focusing on what life is really like with a newborn in the early days. I'm joined by Certified Infant Educator Meaghan Kinnear. For more information you can find Meaghan over on Instagram @the_newborn_daze. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

It's amazing all the things in life we take for granted. It isn't until you go through something or meet someone who's path is different to yours that you realise just how much. Whitney Barber has been profoundly deaf since birth and with that has experienced a great deal of ups and downs. Taking on motherhood with the loss of one of her senses was an adjustment, but no more so than any other transition period in her life. We chat about her journey, from high school to now, her daily tasks to her achievements and learn just a little more insight into what it's like to live in a world where sound is a luxury. If you want to follow more of Whitney's journey you can find her over on Instagram @thewifelife @villamicasa or www.thewifelife.com.au xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Welcome to the new sub series Postpartum Pieces; short, educational episodes with qualified professionals, designed to make your postpartum journey that little bit easier...This week we talk Paediatric First Aid, focusing on burns and drowning - how to avoid it and what to do in the event of an emergency. I'm joined by qualified paramedic and Paediatric First Aid instructor Jessica Peters from Rescue Blue. You can find Jess and the Rescue Blue team at the following contact points:Instagram @rescueblue_littleaidFacebook Rescueblue Website www.rescueblue.com.au Offering both private and public workshops around South East Queensland. Enquiries can be directed towards brisbane@recsueblue.com.au See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

It's easy to lose yourself in Motherhood. To not make time for yourself, to put yourself last, to find yourself on a whole new journey - maybe one you had no idea you needed to be on. I sit down with mum of two Courtney McCarty to discuss how motherhood has changed things for her; physically, mentally and spiritually and how she came to realise that making herself a priority was in everyone's best interest. If you want to follow more of Courtney's journey, you can find her over on Instagram @_courtneymccarty xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

When it comes to embracing certain cultures, it seems like we've come a long way but are there still challenges when it comes to two different cultures coming together in marriage? Absolutely.Julia Mawande opens up about her experience as an immigrant to Australia, how her Italian background moulds with her husband's African culture and how all of these things impact her parenting journey. Highlighting that we all need to be conscious of how our mentalities can not only impact others, but also future generations.If you would like to follow more of Julia's journey, you can find her over on Instagram @juliamawande xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

For many modern day mamas we strive to do and have it all and our career's are no exception. A lot of mum's see working from home as the pinnacle because it allows you to both succeed in your own right whilst spending time with your children. But is it really that simple?Natty Faulks talks us through what it's really like to work from home with two small children and shares her tips, tricks and lessons she's learnt along the way. I also pick her brain as a children's entertainer to get the scoop on her best party tips; something i'm sure we can all benefit from!If you would like to follow more of Nat's journey you can find her over on Instagram @nattyfaulks or as a contributor to @havenhub along with her website www.lovedbynatty.com xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Sex. We all do it but do we all talk about? And when we do, are we asking those questions we really want the answers to? Probably not enough.I sit down with Naomi Hutchings, qualified sexologist, to chat about all things sex. From what happens to our sex lives during pregnancy, the transition to motherhood and when we should start opening up the conversation with our children. Proving that there is no shame is conversing about something so normal and that removing the stigma and expectations can be half the battle when seeking a happy and healthy sex life.If you would like to connect with Naomi further you can find her over on Instagram @australiansexologist or via her website www.naomihutchings.com.au xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

WARNING: This episode does touch on the topic of Suicide which may be considered sensitive content to some listeners. Please note some details of Jess' story have been excluded due to legal purposes. Jess Sermak was at a high point in her life; she had her dream job, had just travelled overseas to carry out some charity work and fell in love in a way that would fit right into a romantic novel. But her world came crashing down when she received a phone call that changed everything. Her mother had passed away and after nine months of investigation, it was confirmed that she had committed suicide. Fast forward to Jess now being a mother of 5 children, she discovered that the pressures of motherhood were also leading her down the same path. But refusing to allow her children to go through what she did, she made the decision to make a change and reinvent herself and is now focusing on helping others do the same. Jess shares her difficult journey of ups and downs in an effort to raise awareness of how valuable we are as not only mothers but also as people. If you would like to follow more of Jess' journey, you can find her over on Instagram @jess.sermak or via her website www.jesssermak.com xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

We're lucky in today's society that we have started to normalise and be open about an array of topics that used to be considered taboo, one of which being plastic surgery. Things like botox or fillers were once well kept secrets and yet now one can pop out and have these done in their lunch break without the shame and stigma attached. But what happens when you go ahead with the decision to obtain plastic surgery and then discover that it's not quite right for you?Claudia Natasha talks openly about her decision to go ahead with breast implant surgery and then her long and hesitant journey in deciding to have them removed. We delve into the stigma of breast implant illness and what steps you can take to ensure you're fully educated before making the decision. Opening up about what it's really like to go through from beginning to end and the reality of body image and how both procedures can have an impact; not only physically but also mentally.If you would like to follow more of Claudia's journey, you can find her over on Instagram @claudianatasha_ or on her website www.themaximalist.com.au xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In season 1 I sat down with the lovely Mikhailla who shared her devastating story of loss; losing her newborn son Foxx within days of his birth due to Group B Strep. Fast forward to today and she has just welcomed another beautiful boy into the world but it certainly hasn't come without it's own set of challenges.She shares the details of her birth story, how they really felt about welcoming another boy and the terrifying scare they experienced when Cruz was just 4 weeks old, proving that happy endings are possible but they don't always come easy.You can follow more of Mikhailla's journey over on Instagram @mikhailla or found out more about her business @twenty6_marketing.Along with her websites www.wholeheartedly.com.au and www.twenty6.com.au xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The journey to motherhood is one that encompasses many emotions and challenges. It redefines who you are as a person and requires both a mental and physical shift into a whole new world and for many; one they were not prepared for. Sophie Ryan joins me to discuss how we can help mother's be compassionate with themselves during this transition and rediscover who they are and who they wish to be both as an individual and a parent. Using her background as a social worker, she discusses what tools we can embrace to help prevent mum's from turning self sacrifice into self sabotage. If you want to follow more of Sophie's journey you can find her over on Instagram @sophieanneryan_ or via her website www.sophieanneryan.com xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

WARNING: This episode contains content relating to pregnancy loss and may be sensitive to some listeners. There was a moment in time where Amie Solomon appeared to have it all. She had just competed on Australia's Ninja Warrior, married the love of her life and shortly after, found out she was pregnant with a beautiful baby girl named Lola. But at 10 weeks pregnant, Amie and husband Ryan were told that their little girl was unwell and that the pregnancy was unlikely to continue. In a bid to hold onto all hope she continued to carry Lola until at 18 weeks she was told there was no hope left and had to go through the painful process of birthing her with her wings.Amie opens up about her loss, the mental and physical journey she endured and the blessing of her beautiful son River; showing that moving forward is essential but it doesn't mean forgetting. If you want to follow more of Amie's journey you can find her over on Instagram @amiejanesolomon xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Being a mother doesn't come with a manual and there is certainly no step by step guide that talks you through how you can assist your children when your circumstances change nor does it help you with the financial ramifications of expanding your family.Laura Bentley joins me to talk openly about the evolution of her blended family and what co-parenting looks like for her eldest child Will. She touches on the reality of financial hardship which led her to create tips and tricks for budgeting and saving money with a growing family.If you would like to follow more of Laura's journey, you can find her over on Instagram @_laurabentley_ or on her website www.laurabentley.com.au xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Well it's been one hell of a season. We've covered oh so much about motherhood, life and everything in between but I feel like we've only just scratched the surface. Signing off for the year and giving you a little insight into our world with a Q&A featuring my beautiful 7 year old daughter Peyton.Don't forget to touch base with me over on Instagram @mummyrepublic for any suggestions on topics or guests that you want to listen to next season xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

It's a question that a lot of mothers ask themselves; should I have another baby? With physical, emotional and financial implications, the answer is never easy but Jessiika Wilson opens up about her motherhood journey and the steps she took when it came time to think about expanding her family. She also talks us through what life is going to look like now she's finished having babies and the investment she wants to make back into her body with a Tummy Tuck and Breast reduction procedure; another big life decision. Proving that motherhood is never as simple as it seems, we all struggle with our own battles and that a lot goes into those choices that can last a lifetime.If you would like to follow more of Jess's journey you can find her over on Instagram at @jessiikawilson xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The world of social media is somewhat of a minefield. A few years ago the term influencer didn't exist, let alone influencer marketing. So what really goes on behind the scenes? Is it just about free stuff and getting invited to cool events?Ryan Chipperfield from Bluechip Talent lifts the lid on the world of influencing and talks candidly about working with brands and potentially turning a hobby into a business. This is a must listen for all bloggers, influencers and brands who want to know what it's really like behind the scenes but make sure you have a notepad ready as there are plenty of tips and tricks.You can find Ryan over at @blue_chip_talent and more information on the Mum Network @mum_network you can find them at mumnetwork.com.au. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

For most of us, making the decision to have a child is a big decision and often takes a lot of planning and discussion. But for same sex couples, that decision becomes even bigger with questions like - how do we go about doing it? Where do we even start?Mark Buckley-Davidson joins me to lift the lid on same sex surrogacy and opens up about the journey he and husband Damien went on to be able to have their beautiful little girl Isabel. We talk all about the process, the cost, the challenges and the stigma of two dads raising a child; proving once and for all that love, really is love, no matter where it comes from. If you would like to follow more of Mark's journey you can find him over on Instagram at @the_real_dads_of_brisbane xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Living in a modern day society surrounded by consumerism, it's easy to lose perspective of the things that are really important, like our health. But when you have a chronic illness, you don't get that luxury and for Emmy O'Neill it's something that impacts her everyday life. Emmy opens up about making it through kidney failure, her reliance on dialysis to keep her alive and the journey to obtaining a kidney transplant. Proving that not only are the best things in life free, they're often the things we too often take for granted. You can follow more of Emmy's journey on Instagram - @the.oneills xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Motherhood, pregnancy and birth are prime examples of how things don't always go to plan and sometimes that's for good reason. Nadine Muller opens up about her birth experience and let's us in on what life is really like with a premature baby, after her second son was born much earlier than expected and in a less desireable fashion. She speaks of how she has managed to turn her challenges into positives and now has an incredible drive to help other mamas work through their struggles and empower each other; proving that we all have value to add and although our journey's may differ, we're never alone. You can follow more of Nadine's journey over on Instagram @nadinemuller or you can join her incredible support network on Facebook by searching RISE by Nadine Muller xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Sadly 1 in 3 women in Australia alone have experienced domestic violence. It's an issue that is prominent in most societies and the reality is that it doesn't discriminate. Regardless of your socio-economic status, your age, your religion, your gender; there are no boundaries when it comes to who can be impacted. Vanessa Haldane shares her story of domestic violence with her ex partner and the father of her child, which began when she was only 14 years of age. She speaks of the reality, the journey and how she managed to break away from such a horrific environment. Highlighting the intensity of these situations, the conflicting emotions and the reality that recovery doesn't happen as soon as you leave; it can take years to navigate. You can follow more of Vanessa's journey over on instagram @vanessahaldane_If you or a loved one are experiencing domestic violence, there is a lot of help available through White Ribbon and Lifeline. If you are concerned about how you can support your children you can also reach out to Baby Give Back; an incredible charity based on the Gold Coast in QLD. xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

For most couples, when you choose to settle down and have a family, it's not done with the intention of separating down the track. Yet for many parents, this is a path they need to learn to quickly navigate as co-parenting is a common arrangement in today's society. Tahana Lee joins me to speak openly about separating from her son's father, how they adjusted to sharing the responsibilities of raising their child and what life looks like as a single mother. She also touches on the emotional rollercoaster that's associated with their own relationship and how this can change with the addition of third parties, showing just how complex it can be to share a child with someone you no longer share a life with. You can follow more of Tahana's journey over on Instagram @tahanalee xx See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.