This one's a little different.

My youngest has about 20 months left at home before he starts school. And this week, with my business growing and opportunities coming in, the push and pull of wanting to be present and wanting to build has been loud. Really loud.

So instead of a teaching episode, this is just me being honest about what it actually feels like to hold both. The grief of a season ending. The weight of a hard week. The opportunities that make the tension harder. And why I still believe you don't have to choose between motherhood and ambition, even when it feels like you do.

In this episode I cover:
The grief that comes with watching your last baby grow up and a season start to slip away
What a hard week taught me about presence, depletion and showing up for both work and motherhood
How I'm navigating real business opportunities while protecting this time with my son
Why the tension doesn't mean you're doing it wrong
The season-based approach I use to make decisions that actually feel aligned
What holding both motherhood and ambition practically looks like in my life right now

This episode won't give you a framework or a neat resolution. But if you're sitting in this tension too, I hope it makes you feel a little less alone in it.

Links + Resources
→ Come say hi on Instagram: @‌balancedbizmama
→ Book in a 1:1 mentoring session
→ Join The Balanced Biz Mama Circle (monthly coaching + community for mums in business)
→ Subscribe to never miss an episode!

This one's a little different.
My youngest has about 20 months left at home before he starts school. And this week, with my business growing and opportunities coming in, the push and pull of wanting to be present and wanting to build has been loud. Really loud.
So instead of a teaching episode, this is just me being honest about what it actually feels like to hold both. The grief of a season ending. The weight of a hard week. The opportunities that make the tension harder. And why I still believe you don't have to choose between motherhood and ambition, even when it feels like you do.
In this episode I cover:
<ul>
<li>The grief that comes with watching your last baby grow up and a season start to slip away</li>
<li>What a hard week taught me about presence, depletion and showing up for both work and motherhood</li>
<li>How I'm navigating real business opportunities while protecting this time with my son</li>
<li>Why the tension doesn't mean you're doing it wrong</li>
<li>The season-based approach I use to make decisions that actually feel aligned</li>
<li>What holding both motherhood and ambition practically looks like in my life right now</li>
</ul>
This episode won't give you a framework or a neat resolution. But if you're sitting in this tension too, I hope it makes you feel a little less alone in it.
Links + Resources &rarr; Come say hi on Instagram: <a href="https://instagram.com/balancedbizmama" data-testid="link-with-safety" data-renderer-mark="true">@&zwnj;balancedbizmama</a> &rarr; <a href="https://balancedbizmama.com.au/mama-momentum">Book in a 1:1 mentoring session</a> &rarr; Join <a href="https://balancedbizmama.com.au/bbm-circle" data-testid="link-with-safety" data-renderer-mark="true">The Balanced Biz Mama Circle</a>&nbsp;(monthly coaching + community for mums in business) &rarr; Subscribe to never miss an episode!

Ambition, Presence in Motherhood & the Tension of Holding Both

You're grateful. You really are. And yet there's this quiet, persistent wanting sitting underneath it all. More income. More space. More identity outside of being mum. More from your business.

And then comes the guilt.

This episode is for every mum in business who has ever looked at her life and thought "I should just be satisfied" while simultaneously knowing she wants more. Because those two things? They can coexist. And the guilt you're feeling about that wanting is not the truth. It's conditioning.

In this episode I cover:
Why wanting more doesn't make you ungrateful and where that guilt actually comes from
The difference between gratitude and ambition and why they're not opposites
How to recognise when you're outgrowing a season of your life or business
The specific ways guilt shows up and keeps you stuck (pricing, offers, support, scaling)
How to tell the difference between ego-driven wanting and alignment-driven wanting
How I navigate this tension in real life and what I ask myself when the guilt creeps in

The core reframe: Real gratitude doesn't require you to stay small. It doesn't ask you to undercharge, overwork, or cap your potential. Real gratitude says, I'm proud of what I've built and I'm ready to build more.

Wanting more is not a character flaw. It's information. And when it's coming from alignment rather than comparison, it's your inner knowing calling you forward.

Links + Resources
→ Come say hi on Instagram: @‌balancedbizmama
→ Book in a 1:1 mentoring session
→ Join The Balanced Biz Mama Circle (monthly coaching + community for mums in business)
→ Subscribe to never miss an episode!

You're grateful. You really are. And yet there's this quiet, persistent wanting sitting underneath it all. More income. More space. More identity outside of being mum. More from your business.
And then comes the guilt.
This episode is for every mum in business who has ever looked at her life and thought "I should just be satisfied" while simultaneously knowing she wants more. Because those two things? They can coexist. And the guilt you're feeling about that wanting is not the truth. It's conditioning.
In this episode I cover:
<ul>
<li>Why wanting more doesn't make you ungrateful and where that guilt actually comes from</li>
<li>The difference between gratitude and ambition and why they're not opposites</li>
<li>How to recognise when you're outgrowing a season of your life or business</li>
<li>The specific ways guilt shows up and keeps you stuck (pricing, offers, support, scaling)</li>
<li>How to tell the difference between ego-driven wanting and alignment-driven wanting</li>
<li>How I navigate this tension in real life and what I ask myself when the guilt creeps in</li>
</ul>
The core reframe: Real gratitude doesn't require you to stay small. It doesn't ask you to undercharge, overwork, or cap your potential. Real gratitude says, I'm proud of what I've built and I'm ready to build more.
Wanting more is not a character flaw. It's information. And when it's coming from alignment rather than comparison, it's your inner knowing calling you forward.
Links + Resources &rarr; Come say hi on Instagram: <a href="https://instagram.com/balancedbizmama" data-testid="link-with-safety" data-renderer-mark="true">@&zwnj;balancedbizmama</a> &rarr; <a href="https://balancedbizmama.com.au/mama-momentum">Book in a 1:1 mentoring session</a> &rarr; Join <a href="https://balancedbizmama.com.au/bbm-circle" data-testid="link-with-safety" data-renderer-mark="true">The Balanced Biz Mama Circle</a>&nbsp;(monthly coaching + community for mums in business) &rarr; Subscribe to never miss an episode!

Gratitude, Ambition & Wanting More Without the Guilt

In this Naptime Chat, I’m sitting down with Sarah Middleton, founder of Brilliant Little Gems.

Sarah is an AuDHD social worker, educator and somatic coach, and this conversation goes into what it really looks like to navigate motherhood, business, and understanding your brain… all at the same time.

We talk about how Sarah’s business came from her own lived experience as a mum of neurodivergent children, and how that has shaped the way she works, supports others, and designs her entire life and business.

This is one of those conversations that feels really honest and grounding, especially if you’ve ever felt like the way you’re trying to run your business just doesn’t quite fit.

In this episode, we chat about:
Building a business around your children’s needs instead of forcing them to fit your work
What it actually looks like to work within your capacity as a mum
Late diagnosis and the experience of understanding your neurodivergence as an adult
Masking, coping, and why so many women are only just starting to connect the dots
Navigating things like school challenges, burnout and emotional load as a parent
The role your nervous system plays in both business and motherhood
Letting go of guilt and creating a way of working that actually supports you

Links + Resources
→ Connect with Sarah on Instagram: @‌sarahmiddleton.blg or LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sarah-rose-middleton-5b336888/ or on Facebook: facebook.com/sarah.middleton.blg
→ Check out her website: www.brilliantlittlegems.com.au

You can access 1:1 support with Sarah via zoom within her Shift Happens package - 3 months of support to deepen your understanding of your own brain, your needs and to create meaningful, sustainable change in your life. If you’re Australian and have a diagnosis of ADHD or Autism and are employed/self-employed you may be eligible for funded coaching with Sarah through the Australian Government Employee Assistance Fund.

Find out more about Shift Happens: https://brilliantlittlegems.com.au/shifthappensforwomen

Find out more about 3 months of fully funded coaching for Autistic and ADHD individuals https://brilliantlittlegems.com.au/post/ADHDworkplacefunding

→ Come say hi on Instagram: @‌balancedbizmama
→ Join The Balanced Biz Mama Circle (monthly coaching + community for mums in business)
→ Subscribe to never miss an episode!

In this Naptime Chat, I&rsquo;m sitting down with Sarah Middleton, founder of Brilliant Little Gems.
Sarah is an AuDHD social worker, educator and somatic coach, and this conversation goes into what it really looks like to navigate motherhood, business, and understanding your brain&hellip; all at the same time.
We talk about how Sarah&rsquo;s business came from her own lived experience as a mum of neurodivergent children, and how that has shaped the way she works, supports others, and designs her entire life and business.
This is one of those conversations that feels really honest and grounding, especially if you&rsquo;ve ever felt like the way you&rsquo;re trying to run your business just doesn&rsquo;t quite fit.
In this episode, we chat about:
<ul data-start="1708" data-end="2282">
<li data-section-id="1f16ce" data-start="1708" data-end="1801">Building a business around your children&rsquo;s needs instead of forcing them to fit your work</li>
<li data-section-id="ib1vhj" data-start="1802" data-end="1871">What it actually looks like to work within your capacity as a mum</li>
<li data-section-id="3ftzef" data-start="1872" data-end="1959">Late diagnosis and the experience of understanding your neurodivergence as an adult</li>
<li data-section-id="1asqaxq" data-start="1960" data-end="2045">Masking, coping, and why so many women are only just starting to connect the dots</li>
<li data-section-id="1n58lg7" data-start="2046" data-end="2130">Navigating things like school challenges, burnout and emotional load as a parent</li>
<li data-section-id="1j5m0ke" data-start="2131" data-end="2201">The role your nervous system plays in both business and motherhood</li>
<li data-section-id="1b9rcde" data-start="2202" data-end="2282">Letting go of guilt and creating a way of working that actually supports you</li>
</ul>
Links + Resources &rarr; Connect with Sarah on Instagram:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.instagram.com/sarahmiddleton.blg" data-renderer-mark="true" data-is-router-link="false" data-testid="link-with-safety">@&zwnj;sarahmiddleton.blg</a> or LinkedIn:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-rose-middleton-5b336888/" data-renderer-mark="true" data-is-router-link="false" data-testid="link-with-safety">linkedin.com/in/sarah-rose-middleton-5b336888/</a> or on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/sarah.middleton.blg">facebook.com/sarah.middleton.blg</a> &rarr; Check out her website: <a href="http://www.brilliantlittlegems.com.au/">www.brilliantlittlegems.com.au</a>
You can access 1:1 support with Sarah via zoom within her Shift Happens package - 3 months of support to deepen your understanding of your own brain, your needs and to create meaningful, sustainable change in your life. If you&rsquo;re Australian and have a diagnosis of ADHD or Autism and are employed/self-employed you may be eligible for funded coaching with Sarah through the Australian Government Employee Assistance Fund.
Find out more about Shift Happens:&nbsp;<a href="https://brilliantlittlegems.com.au/shifthappensforwomen" data-renderer-mark="true" data-is-router-link="false" data-testid="link-with-safety">https://brilliantlittlegems.com.au/shifthappensforwomen</a>
Find out more about 3 months of fully funded coaching for Autistic and ADHD individuals&nbsp;<a href="https://brilliantlittlegems.com.au/post/ADHDworkplacefunding" data-renderer-mark="true" data-is-router-link="false" data-testid="link-with-safety">https://brilliantlittlegems.com.au/post/ADHDworkplacefunding</a>
&rarr; Come say hi on Instagram: <a href="https://instagram.com/balancedbizmama" data-testid="link-with-safety" data-renderer-mark="true">@&zwnj;balancedbizmama</a> &rarr; Join&nbsp;<a href="https://balancedbizmama.com.au/bbm-circle" data-testid="link-with-safety" data-renderer-mark="true">The Balanced Biz Mama Circle</a>&nbsp;(monthly coaching + community for mums in business) &rarr; Subscribe to never miss an episode!

Naptime Chats: Motherhood, Neurodivergence & Building a Business That Actually Fits with Sarah Middleton

If your offers are good, your content is consistent, and you’re still not seeing the sales you expected… this might be why.

It’s not that people don’t want what you’re selling.
It’s that they don’t fully understand it.

And when someone has to think too hard to figure out what you do, they don’t buy. They scroll.

In this episode, I’m breaking down why clarity converts better than trying to be clever, what confusion is actually costing you in your business, and how to simplify your messaging so people instantly get it.

What I cover in this episode:
Why we overcomplicate our messaging (even when we’re trying to do the right thing)
What confusing messaging is actually costing you in sales, referrals and energy
What’s happening in your client’s brain when your messaging isn’t clear
The three things your messaging needs to communicate immediately
Where most people overcomplicate their content, offers and bios
The fears that keep you hiding behind “clever” wording
How to simplify your messaging without losing depth or credibility
A simple clarity audit you can use straight away

If this episode made you realise your messaging might be overcomplicated, send me a DM on Instagram @‌balancedbizmama and tell me what you’re simplifying.

Links + Resources
→ Come say hi on Instagram: @‌balancedbizmama
→ Book in a 1:1 mentoring session
→ Join The Balanced Biz Mama Circle (monthly coaching + community for mums in business)
→ Subscribe to never miss an episode!

If your offers are good, your content is consistent, and you&rsquo;re still not seeing the sales you expected&hellip; this might be why.
It&rsquo;s not that people don&rsquo;t want what you&rsquo;re selling. It&rsquo;s that they don&rsquo;t fully understand it.
And when someone has to think too hard to figure out what you do, they don&rsquo;t buy. They scroll.
In this episode, I&rsquo;m breaking down why clarity converts better than trying to be clever, what confusion is actually costing you in your business, and how to simplify your messaging so people instantly get it.
What I cover in this episode:
<ul data-start="781" data-end="1347">
<li data-section-id="dfyjm0" data-start="781" data-end="867">Why we overcomplicate our messaging (even when we&rsquo;re trying to do the right thing)</li>
<li data-section-id="eghi5j" data-start="868" data-end="951">What confusing messaging is actually costing you in sales, referrals and energy</li>
<li data-section-id="75xu36" data-start="952" data-end="1027">What&rsquo;s happening in your client&rsquo;s brain when your messaging isn&rsquo;t clear</li>
<li data-section-id="izhpj8" data-start="1028" data-end="1096">The three things your messaging needs to communicate immediately</li>
<li data-section-id="to4mmy" data-start="1097" data-end="1164">Where most people overcomplicate their content, offers and bios</li>
<li data-section-id="5n6uku" data-start="1165" data-end="1223">The fears that keep you hiding behind &ldquo;clever&rdquo; wording</li>
<li data-section-id="1rg42ev" data-start="1224" data-end="1294">How to simplify your messaging without losing depth or credibility</li>
<li data-section-id="1j1pnbq" data-start="1295" data-end="1347">A simple clarity audit you can use straight away</li>
</ul>
If this episode made you realise your messaging might be overcomplicated, send me a DM on Instagram <a href="https://instagram.com/balancedbizmama" data-testid="link-with-safety" data-renderer-mark="true">@&zwnj;balancedbizmama</a>&nbsp;and tell me what you&rsquo;re simplifying.
Links + Resources &rarr; Come say hi on Instagram: <a href="https://instagram.com/balancedbizmama" data-testid="link-with-safety" data-renderer-mark="true">@&zwnj;balancedbizmama</a> &rarr; <a href="https://balancedbizmama.com.au/mama-momentum">Book in a 1:1 mentoring session</a> &rarr; Join <a href="https://balancedbizmama.com.au/bbm-circle" data-testid="link-with-safety" data-renderer-mark="true">The Balanced Biz Mama Circle</a>&nbsp;(monthly coaching + community for mums in business) &rarr; Subscribe to never miss an episode!

Conversions, Clarity & Why People Aren’t Buying

In this Naptime Chat, I’m joined by burnout prevention coach Sophie Anderson, and this is one of those conversations that so many mums in business need to hear.

Sophie shares her journey from working full-time in academia to building her own coaching business, all while navigating motherhood and the reality of doing it without a strong support system.

What I loved about this conversation is how honest it is.

Because burnout doesn’t just happen “out there” in corporate jobs, it can happen in our businesses too. Especially when we’re juggling everything, putting pressure on ourselves, and trying to make it all work.

Inside this episode, we talk about:
how burnout actually develops (and why it doesn’t come out of nowhere)
the early warning signs most mums notice but push past anyway
the invisible pressure we put on ourselves (and how it adds to the load)
why boundaries feel hard — and where to start if they do
simple ways to reduce stress before it builds into something bigger
the difference between demands vs resources (and why that matters)
how to create support when you feel like you’re doing it all alone
“stick to the plan, not the mood” — and how to actually apply that in real life

This conversation is practical, honest, and grounded in real-life experience.

If you’ve been feeling stretched, reactive, overwhelmed, or like you’re constantly trying to keep up… this episode will help you take a step back and look at what actually needs to shift.

Links + Resources
→ Connect with Sophie on Instagram: @‌sophieandersoncoach or LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sophanderson/ or on InsightTimer: https://insighttimer.com/sophieandersoncoach
→ Check out her website: www.sophieanderson.au
→ Come say hi on Instagram: @‌balancedbizmama
→ Join The Balanced Biz Mama Circle (monthly coaching + community for mums in business)
→ Subscribe to never miss an episode!

In this Naptime Chat, I&rsquo;m joined by burnout prevention coach Sophie Anderson, and this is one of those conversations that so many mums in business need to hear.
Sophie shares her journey from working full-time in academia to building her own coaching business, all while navigating motherhood and the reality of doing it without a strong support system.
What I loved about this conversation is how honest it is.
Because burnout doesn&rsquo;t just happen &ldquo;out there&rdquo; in corporate jobs, it can happen in our businesses too. Especially when we&rsquo;re juggling everything, putting pressure on ourselves, and trying to make it all work.
Inside this episode, we talk about:
<ul data-start="2658" data-end="3272">
<li data-section-id="1wrl0q1" data-start="2658" data-end="2770">how burnout actually develops (and why it doesn&rsquo;t come out of nowhere)</li>
<li data-section-id="vsmt1v" data-start="2771" data-end="2836">the early warning signs most mums notice but push past anyway</li>
<li data-section-id="cqcnek" data-start="2837" data-end="2913">the invisible pressure we put on ourselves (and how it adds to the load)</li>
<li data-section-id="1aqz1xk" data-start="2914" data-end="2974">why boundaries feel hard &mdash; and where to start if they do</li>
<li data-section-id="mnwi1k" data-start="2975" data-end="3046">simple ways to reduce stress before it builds into something bigger</li>
<li data-section-id="2qbzrd" data-start="3047" data-end="3117">the difference between demands vs resources (and why that matters)</li>
<li data-section-id="cfdn4d" data-start="3118" data-end="3188">how to create support when you feel like you&rsquo;re doing it all alone</li>
<li data-section-id="1h5plwe" data-start="3189" data-end="3272">&ldquo;stick to the plan, not the mood&rdquo; &mdash; and how to actually apply that in real life</li>
</ul>
This conversation is practical, honest, and grounded in real-life experience.
If you&rsquo;ve been feeling stretched, reactive, overwhelmed, or like you&rsquo;re constantly trying to keep up&hellip; this episode will help you take a step back and look at what actually needs to shift.
Links + Resources &rarr; Connect with Sophie on Instagram: <a href="http://www.instagram.com/sophieandersoncoach" data-renderer-mark="true" data-is-router-link="false" data-testid="link-with-safety">@&zwnj;sophieandersoncoach</a> or LinkedIn:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophanderson/" data-renderer-mark="true" data-is-router-link="false" data-testid="link-with-safety">linkedin.com/in/sophanderson/</a>&nbsp;or on InsightTimer: <a href="https://insighttimer.com/sophieandersoncoach">https://insighttimer.com/sophieandersoncoach</a> &rarr; Check out her website: <a href="http://www.sophieanderson.au/">www.sophieanderson.au</a> &rarr; Come say hi on Instagram:&nbsp;<a href="https://instagram.com/balancedbizmama" data-testid="link-with-safety" data-renderer-mark="true">@&zwnj;balancedbizmama</a> &rarr; Join&nbsp;<a href="https://balancedbizmama.com.au/bbm-circle" data-testid="link-with-safety" data-renderer-mark="true">The Balanced Biz Mama Circle</a>&nbsp;(monthly coaching + community for mums in business) &rarr; Subscribe to never miss an episode!

Naptime Chats: Burnout, Boundaries & Preventing Overwhelm with Sophie Anderson

Today I'm sharing my thoughts on waiting for the "right time" to build your business, because I believe there is no perfect season.

Not for starting your business.
Not for launching that thing.
Not for finally going after what you want.

Because there isn’t a version of life where everything aligns and you suddenly have unlimited time, energy and support. That season simply doesn’t exist.

I’ve built my business in the in-between moments — around kids, around work, around seasons that were messy, chaotic and far from ideal. And right now? I’m in a season of growth and expansion… while also having less time than ever.

So this episode is about what happens when you stop waiting — and start building with what you actually have.

Inside this episode, I’m talking about:
the “perfect seasons” we convince ourselves we need before we start
why life doesn’t calm down… it just changes shape
what waiting is actually costing you (time, money, confidence and more)
how every season comes with both constraints and advantages
why your business is allowed to evolve alongside your life
simple reframes to shift you out of “I can’t right now” thinking
what it actually looks like to build in hard or high-capacity seasons
how to stop waiting for perfect and start building something now

This isn’t about ignoring your reality or pretending things are easy.

It’s about being honest about your capacity — and still choosing to move forward in a way that works for your life right now.

Because this season — the one you’re in — is the only one you actually have.

And it’s enough.

Links + Resources
→ Come say hi on Instagram: @‌balancedbizmama
→ Book in a 1:1 mentoring session
→ Join The Balanced Biz Mama Circle (monthly coaching + community for mums in business)
→ Subscribe to never miss an episode!

Today I'm sharing my thoughts on waiting for the "right time" to build your business, because I believe there is no perfect season.
Not for starting your business. Not for launching that thing. Not for finally going after what you want.
Because there isn&rsquo;t a version of life where everything aligns and you suddenly have unlimited time, energy and support. That season simply doesn&rsquo;t exist.
I&rsquo;ve built my business in the in-between moments &mdash; around kids, around work, around seasons that were messy, chaotic and far from ideal. And right now? I&rsquo;m in a season of growth and expansion&hellip; while also having less time than ever.
So this episode is about what happens when you stop waiting &mdash; and start building with what you actually have.
Inside this episode, I&rsquo;m talking about:
<ul data-start="1662" data-end="2202">
<li data-section-id="1ozvob7" data-start="1662" data-end="1733">the &ldquo;perfect seasons&rdquo; we convince ourselves we need before we start</li>
<li data-section-id="jrgevy" data-start="1734" data-end="1787">why life doesn&rsquo;t calm down&hellip; it just changes shape</li>
<li data-section-id="1r7i126" data-start="1788" data-end="1863">what waiting is actually costing you (time, money, confidence and more)</li>
<li data-section-id="1v2ttr5" data-start="1864" data-end="1927">how every season comes with both constraints and advantages</li>
<li data-section-id="1x3bzfo" data-start="1928" data-end="1990">why your business is allowed to evolve alongside your life</li>
<li data-section-id="1drt20f" data-start="1991" data-end="2059">simple reframes to shift you out of &ldquo;I can&rsquo;t right now&rdquo; thinking</li>
<li data-section-id="ury19u" data-start="2060" data-end="2133">what it actually looks like to build in hard or high-capacity seasons</li>
<li data-section-id="1h4ajh7" data-start="2134" data-end="2202">how to stop waiting for perfect and start building something now</li>
</ul>
This isn&rsquo;t about ignoring your reality or pretending things are easy.
It&rsquo;s about being honest about your capacity &mdash; and still choosing to move forward in a way that works for your life right now.
Because this season &mdash; the one you&rsquo;re in &mdash; is the only one you actually have.
And it&rsquo;s enough.
Links + Resources &rarr; Come say hi on Instagram: <a href="https://instagram.com/balancedbizmama" data-testid="link-with-safety" data-renderer-mark="true">@&zwnj;balancedbizmama</a> &rarr; <a href="https://balancedbizmama.com.au/mama-momentum">Book in a 1:1 mentoring session</a> &rarr; Join <a href="https://balancedbizmama.com.au/bbm-circle" data-testid="link-with-safety" data-renderer-mark="true">The Balanced Biz Mama Circle</a>&nbsp;(monthly coaching + community for mums in business) &rarr; Subscribe to never miss an episode!

Stop Waiting, Start Small & Build in the Season You’re In

In this Naptime Chat episode, I sit down with Tash Leam — author, podcaster, speaker and certified Human Design reader — for a conversation about identity, motherhood, side-hustle seasons, and what it means to stay connected to yourself while raising children.

Tash shares how her journey began in the personal development world, what led her to write her first two books, and why becoming a mum made her even more determined not to lose her sense of self. From there, the conversation explores how motherhood can magnify the mental load, reshape time and capacity, and force women to rethink how they work, rest and relate to themselves.

Tash also unpacks Human Design in a refreshingly practical way, not as something rigid or overwhelming, but as a framework for understanding energy, self-trust and how to work in ways that feel more sustainable.

Inside this episode, we talk about:


why so many women feel themselves disappear into motherhood


the grief and adjustment that can come with becoming a mum while still wanting more for yourself


balancing a 9–5, a business, and parenting without falling into hustle culture


using Human Design as a grounded tool for self-awareness and course correction


how to work with your energy instead of constantly forcing yourself


why self-trust matters more than any business strategy


eldest daughter energy, over-responsibility, people-pleasing and boundary work


what to do when you feel the pull to start a business but life doesn’t look “perfect” yet

This episode is especially powerful for mums who are trying to hold onto themselves while navigating motherhood, or for women building a business in the margins of real life rather than in big, uninterrupted blocks of time.

Links + Resources
→ Connect with Tash on Instagram: @‌tash_leam or TikTok: @‌tash_leam
→ Check out her website: www.tashleam.com
→ Come say hi on Instagram: @‌balancedbizmama
→ Join The Balanced Biz Mama Circle (monthly coaching + community for mums in business)
→ Subscribe to never miss an episode!

In this Naptime Chat episode, I sit down with Tash Leam &mdash; author, podcaster, speaker and certified Human Design reader &mdash; for a conversation about identity, motherhood, side-hustle seasons, and what it means to stay connected to yourself while raising children.
Tash shares how her journey began in the personal development world, what led her to write her first two books, and why becoming a mum made her even more determined not to lose her sense of self. From there, the conversation explores how motherhood can magnify the mental load, reshape time and capacity, and force women to rethink how they work, rest and relate to themselves.
Tash also unpacks Human Design in a refreshingly practical way, not as something rigid or overwhelming, but as a framework for understanding energy, self-trust and how to work in ways that feel more sustainable.
Inside this episode, we talk about:
<ul data-start="2252" data-end="2874">
<li data-section-id="1yqbaw3" data-start="2252" data-end="2313">
why so many women feel themselves disappear into motherhood
</li>
<li data-section-id="1q4ogth" data-start="2314" data-end="2412">
the grief and adjustment that can come with becoming a mum while still wanting more for yourself
</li>
<li data-section-id="qpv8z1" data-start="2413" data-end="2493">
balancing a 9&ndash;5, a business, and parenting without falling into hustle culture
</li>
<li data-section-id="va3t71" data-start="2494" data-end="2574">
using Human Design as a grounded tool for self-awareness and course correction
</li>
<li data-section-id="1dwytg" data-start="2575" data-end="2644">
how to work with your energy instead of constantly forcing yourself
</li>
<li data-section-id="d6meoe" data-start="2645" data-end="2701">
why self-trust matters more than any business strategy
</li>
<li data-section-id="1om483l" data-start="2702" data-end="2782">
eldest daughter energy, over-responsibility, people-pleasing and boundary work
</li>
<li data-section-id="1njr16x" data-start="2783" data-end="2874">
what to do when you feel the pull to start a business but life doesn&rsquo;t look &ldquo;perfect&rdquo; yet
</li>
</ul>
This episode is especially powerful for mums who are trying to hold onto themselves while navigating motherhood, or for women building a business in the margins of real life rather than in big, uninterrupted blocks of time.
Links + Resources &rarr; Connect with Tash on Instagram:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.instagram.com/tash_leam" data-renderer-mark="true" data-is-router-link="false" data-testid="link-with-safety">@&zwnj;tash_leam</a> or TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@tash_leam" data-renderer-mark="true" data-is-router-link="false" data-testid="link-with-safety">@&zwnj;tash_leam</a> &rarr; Check out her website: <a href="http://www.tashleam.com/">www.tashleam.com</a> &rarr; Come say hi on Instagram:&nbsp;<a href="https://instagram.com/balancedbizmama" data-testid="link-with-safety" data-renderer-mark="true">@&zwnj;balancedbizmama</a> &rarr; Join&nbsp;<a href="https://balancedbizmama.com.au/bbm-circle" data-testid="link-with-safety" data-renderer-mark="true">The Balanced Biz Mama Circle</a>&nbsp;(monthly coaching + community for mums in business) &rarr; Subscribe to never miss an episode!

Naptime Chats: Motherhood, Human Design & Not Losing Yourself with Tash Leam

In this International Women’s Day episode, I’m talking about something that has had a profound impact on my business over the past few years: community.

The 2026 International Women’s Day theme is “Give to Gain,” and honestly, I can’t think of a better way to describe how genuine support between women in business actually works.

Because the biggest opportunities in my business haven’t come from algorithms, ads, or clever marketing strategies, they’ve come from women.

Women who refer me.
Women who speak my name in rooms where it matters.
Women who champion my work when I’m not there to see it.

In this episode, I unpack why community isn’t just a feel-good concept, instead it’s a powerful business strategy that creates long-term sustainability and growth.

I talk about:


Why community creates longevity in business


How referrals and reputation grow when women support each other


The difference between genuine support and performative support


What it actually looks like to champion another woman’s work


Why generosity builds stronger business networks than transactional networking


How mums in business can build meaningful community even with limited time and capacity

I also share practical ways you can start building this kind of community yourself, through referrals, introductions, amplification, testimonials and genuine celebration of other women’s success.

Because when women support women, we don’t lose, we multiply. And when we build businesses within communities that champion each other, we create something far more powerful than individual success — we create longevity.

Links + Resources
→ Come say hi on Instagram: @‌balancedbizmama
→ Book in a 1:1 mentoring session
→ Join The Balanced Biz Mama Circle (monthly coaching + community for mums in business)
→ Subscribe to never miss an episode!

In this International Women&rsquo;s Day episode,&nbsp;I&rsquo;m talking about something that has had a profound impact on my business over the past few years: community.
The 2026 International Women&rsquo;s Day theme is &ldquo;Give to Gain,&rdquo; and honestly, I can&rsquo;t think of a better way to describe how genuine support between women in business actually works.
Because the biggest opportunities in my business haven&rsquo;t come from algorithms, ads, or clever marketing strategies, they&rsquo;ve come from women.
Women who refer me. Women who speak my name in rooms where it matters. Women who champion my work when I&rsquo;m not there to see it.
In this episode, I unpack why community isn&rsquo;t just a feel-good concept, instead it&rsquo;s a powerful business strategy that creates long-term sustainability and growth.
I talk about:
<ul data-start="2242" data-end="2653">
<li data-start="2242" data-end="2287">
Why community creates longevity in business
</li>
<li data-start="2288" data-end="2353">
How referrals and reputation grow when women support each other
</li>
<li data-start="2354" data-end="2419">
The difference between genuine support and performative support
</li>
<li data-start="2420" data-end="2482">
What it actually looks like to champion another woman&rsquo;s work
</li>
<li data-start="2483" data-end="2563">
Why generosity builds stronger business networks than transactional networking
</li>
<li data-start="2564" data-end="2653">
How mums in business can build meaningful community even with limited time and capacity
</li>
</ul>
I also share practical ways you can start building this kind of community yourself, through referrals, introductions, amplification, testimonials and genuine celebration of other women&rsquo;s success.
Because when women support women, we don&rsquo;t lose, we multiply. And when we build businesses within communities that champion each other, we create something far more powerful than individual success &mdash; we create longevity.
Links + Resources &rarr; Come say hi on Instagram: <a href="https://instagram.com/balancedbizmama" data-testid="link-with-safety" data-renderer-mark="true">@&zwnj;balancedbizmama</a> &rarr; <a href="https://balancedbizmama.com.au/mama-momentum">Book in a 1:1 mentoring session</a> &rarr; Join <a href="https://balancedbizmama.com.au/bbm-circle" data-testid="link-with-safety" data-renderer-mark="true">The Balanced Biz Mama Circle</a>&nbsp;(monthly coaching + community for mums in business) &rarr; Subscribe to never miss an episode!

Community, Referrals & The Power of Women Supporting Women

Today I’m reframing boundaries — not as self-care, not as something you implement once you’re already burnt out, but as a core business skill.

Because boundaries don’t just protect your time.
They shape your client experience.
They influence your revenue.
And they determine whether your business is sustainable.

I talk about why so many of us treat boundaries like a “nice-to-have” instead of recognising them as business infrastructure — and how that quietly costs us.

Inside this episode, I unpack:


Why boundaries aren’t just about protecting your peace — they’re about protecting your profit


How poor boundaries create codependency instead of professionalism


The real revenue cost of scope creep and overdelivering


Why strong boundaries actually create a better client experience


The essential boundaries every mum in business needs (availability, scope, communication, revisions, payment and timelines)


How to state boundaries clearly and confidently — without apologising

And then we go deeper.

Because underneath most weak boundaries isn’t incompetence.

It’s guilt.

The guilt mums feel for not being constantly available.
The guilt for not working like we did before kids.
The guilt for protecting school pick-up time.
The guilt for charging properly.
The guilt for saying no.

This episode is about separating guilt from strategy — and recognising that protecting your capacity is not selfish. It’s responsible leadership.

Boundaries don’t make you difficult.
They make your business sustainable.

Links + Resources
→ Come say hi on Instagram: @‌balancedbizmama
→ Book in a 1:1 mentoring session
→ Join The Balanced Biz Mama Circle (monthly coaching + community for mums in business)
→ Subscribe to never miss an episode!

Today I&rsquo;m reframing boundaries &mdash; not as self-care, not as something you implement once you&rsquo;re already burnt out, but as a core business skill.
Because boundaries don&rsquo;t just protect your time. They shape your client experience. They influence your revenue. And they determine whether your business is sustainable.
I talk about why so many of us treat boundaries like a &ldquo;nice-to-have&rdquo; instead of recognising them as business infrastructure &mdash; and how that quietly costs us.
Inside this episode, I unpack:
<ul data-start="1056" data-end="1555">
<li data-start="1056" data-end="1153">
Why boundaries aren&rsquo;t just about protecting your peace &mdash; they&rsquo;re about protecting your profit
</li>
<li data-start="1154" data-end="1224">
How poor boundaries create codependency instead of professionalism
</li>
<li data-start="1225" data-end="1284">
The real revenue cost of scope creep and overdelivering
</li>
<li data-start="1285" data-end="1353">
Why strong boundaries actually create a better client experience
</li>
<li data-start="1354" data-end="1481">
The essential boundaries every mum in business needs (availability, scope, communication, revisions, payment and timelines)
</li>
<li data-start="1482" data-end="1555">
How to state boundaries clearly and confidently &mdash; without apologising
</li>
</ul>
And then we go deeper.
Because underneath most weak boundaries isn&rsquo;t incompetence.
It&rsquo;s guilt.
The guilt mums feel for not being constantly available. The guilt for not working like we did before kids. The guilt for protecting school pick-up time. The guilt for charging properly. The guilt for saying no.
This episode is about separating guilt from strategy &mdash; and recognising that protecting your capacity is not selfish. It&rsquo;s responsible leadership.
Boundaries don&rsquo;t make you difficult. They make your business sustainable.
Links + Resources &rarr; Come say hi on Instagram: <a href="https://instagram.com/balancedbizmama" data-testid="link-with-safety" data-renderer-mark="true">@&zwnj;balancedbizmama</a> &rarr; <a href="https://balancedbizmama.com.au/mama-momentum">Book in a 1:1 mentoring session</a> &rarr; Join <a href="https://balancedbizmama.com.au/bbm-circle" data-testid="link-with-safety" data-renderer-mark="true">The Balanced Biz Mama Circle</a>&nbsp;(monthly coaching + community for mums in business) &rarr; Subscribe to never miss an episode!

Boundaries, the Client Experience & the Guilt Mums Feel

Today I’m unpacking something I wish someone had told me years ago:

Capacity doesn’t equal capability.

Just because I’m capable of doing something doesn’t mean I have the capacity to do it right now. And just because my capacity is reduced in this season doesn’t mean I’ve somehow become less capable.

After my toddler dropped his nap, I found myself thinking, “I used to be able to do so much more.” And that’s when it clicked. My skills haven’t disappeared. My knowledge hasn’t evaporated. What’s changed is my available time, energy and mental bandwidth.

In this episode, I talk about:


The difference between capability (your skill and competence) and capacity (your available bandwidth)


Why capacity naturally shifts in motherhood and different life seasons


The danger of the “but I used to…” comparison trap


Why reduced output does not mean reduced competence


How to build your business around your real capacity instead of fighting it


The freedom that comes from accepting your season instead of resisting it

This conversation is especially for the mum who feels like she’s not doing as much as she once did… and is quietly questioning herself because of it.

You are not less skilled.
You are not less competent.
You are not behind.

You are working within a different set of constraints.

And the fact that you’re still building, serving and showing up? That’s proof of your capability, not evidence against it.

Links + Resources
→ Come say hi on Instagram: @‌balancedbizmama
→ Book in a 1:1 mentoring session
→ Join The Balanced Biz Mama Circle (monthly coaching + community for mums in business)
→ Subscribe to never miss an episode!

Today I&rsquo;m unpacking something I wish someone had told me years ago:
Capacity doesn&rsquo;t equal capability.
Just because I&rsquo;m capable of doing something doesn&rsquo;t mean I have the capacity to do it right now. And just because my capacity is reduced in this season doesn&rsquo;t mean I&rsquo;ve somehow become less capable.
After my toddler dropped his nap, I found myself thinking, &ldquo;I used to be able to do so much more.&rdquo; And that&rsquo;s when it clicked. My skills haven&rsquo;t disappeared. My knowledge hasn&rsquo;t evaporated. What&rsquo;s changed is my available time, energy and mental bandwidth.
In this episode, I talk about:
<ul data-start="1790" data-end="2231">
<li data-start="1790" data-end="1893">
The difference between capability (your skill and competence) and capacity (your available bandwidth)
</li>
<li data-start="1894" data-end="1966">
Why capacity naturally shifts in motherhood and different life seasons
</li>
<li data-start="1967" data-end="2019">
The danger of the &ldquo;but I used to&hellip;&rdquo; comparison trap
</li>
<li data-start="2020" data-end="2077">
Why reduced output does not mean reduced competence
</li>
<li data-start="2078" data-end="2155">
How to build your business around your real capacity instead of fighting it
</li>
<li data-start="2156" data-end="2231">
The freedom that comes from accepting your season instead of resisting it
</li>
</ul>
This conversation is especially for the mum who feels like she&rsquo;s not doing as much as she once did&hellip; and is quietly questioning herself because of it.
You are not less skilled. You are not less competent. You are not behind.
You are working within a different set of constraints.
And the fact that you&rsquo;re still building, serving and showing up? That&rsquo;s proof of your capability, not evidence against it.
Links + Resources &rarr; Come say hi on Instagram: <a href="https://instagram.com/balancedbizmama" data-testid="link-with-safety" data-renderer-mark="true">@&zwnj;balancedbizmama</a> &rarr; <a href="https://balancedbizmama.com.au/mama-momentum">Book in a 1:1 mentoring session</a> &rarr; Join <a href="https://balancedbizmama.com.au/bbm-circle" data-testid="link-with-safety" data-renderer-mark="true">The Balanced Biz Mama Circle</a>&nbsp;(monthly coaching + community for mums in business) &rarr; Subscribe to never miss an episode!

Capacity, Capability & The Myth of “I Used To”

A Mama's Guide To Balancing Parenthood & Working From Home

Coffee, Clients, and Naptime, the ultimate podcast for ambitious parents ready to build a fulfilling business while raising their families. Hosted by Sarah Maree - mother, entrepreneur, and mentor with 15 years of experience in building successful businesses.

Learn how to find your balance between business and your family, creating your dream life during naptime, or in those precious in-between moments when you're a work from home parent. We share practical tools and proven methods to help you transition from overwhelmed to running a successful business on your own terms.

If you're a parent looking to replace the 9-to-5 with flexibility, freedom, and purpose, this podcast is for you. This is the support you need to create the life you’ve always dreamed of - for yourself and your family.

So, grab your coffee, and let’s make it happen!

 

Follow along on Instagram: 

https://www.instagram.com/balancedbizmama/ 

Visit us online:

https://balancedbizmama.com.au

A Mama's Guide To Balancing Parenthood &amp; Working From Home
Coffee, Clients, and Naptime, the ultimate podcast for ambitious parents ready to build a fulfilling business while raising their families. Hosted by Sarah Maree - mother, entrepreneur, and mentor with 15 years of experience in building successful businesses.
Learn how to find your balance between business and your family, creating your dream life during naptime, or in those precious in-between moments when you're a work from home parent. We share practical tools and proven methods to help you transition from overwhelmed to running a successful business on your own terms.
If you're a parent looking to replace the 9-to-5 with flexibility, freedom, and purpose, this podcast is for you. This is the support you need to create the life you&rsquo;ve always dreamed of - for yourself and your family.
So, grab your coffee, and let&rsquo;s make it happen!
&nbsp;
Follow along on Instagram:&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/balancedbizmama/">https://www.instagram.com/balancedbizmama/</a>&nbsp;
Visit us online:
<a href="https://balancedbizmama.com.au/" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://balancedbizmama.com.au&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1738991844534000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0YaHdKBJ9Saj--uHQdEFFg">https://balancedbizmama.com.au</a>

Coffee, Clients & Naptime

A Mama's Guide To Balancing Parenthood & Working From Home

Coffee, Clients, and Nap-time, the ultimate podcast for ambitious parents ready to build a fulfilling business while raising their families. Hosted by Sarah Maree—mother, entrepreneur, and mentor with 15 years of experience in building successful businesses.

Learn how to attract clients during nap-time, after school drop-off, or in those precious in-between moments of parenting meeting your business dreams. We share practical tools and proven methods to help you transition from corporate life to running a successful business on your own terms.

If you're a parent looking to replace the 9-to-5 with flexibility, freedom, and purpose, this podcast is for you. This is the support you need to create the life you’ve always dreamed of—for yourself and your family.

So, grab your coffee, and let’s make it happen!

 

Follow along on Instagram: 

https://www.instagram.com/balancedbizmama/ 

Visit us online:

https://balancedbizmama.com.au

A Mama's Guide To Balancing Parenthood &amp; Working From Home
Coffee, Clients, and Nap-time, the ultimate podcast for ambitious parents ready to build a fulfilling business while raising their families. Hosted by Sarah Maree&mdash;mother, entrepreneur, and mentor with 15 years of experience in building successful businesses.
Learn how to attract clients during nap-time, after school drop-off, or in those precious in-between moments of parenting meeting your business dreams. We share practical tools and proven methods to help you transition from corporate life to running a successful business on your own terms.
If you're a parent looking to replace the 9-to-5 with flexibility, freedom, and purpose, this podcast is for you. This is the support you need to create the life you&rsquo;ve always dreamed of&mdash;for yourself and your family.
So, grab your coffee, and let&rsquo;s make it happen!
&nbsp;
Follow along on Instagram:&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/balancedbizmama/">https://www.instagram.com/balancedbizmama/</a>&nbsp;
Visit us online:
<a href="https://balancedbizmama.com.au/" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://balancedbizmama.com.au&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1738991844534000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0YaHdKBJ9Saj--uHQdEFFg">https://balancedbizmama.com.au</a>

Coffee, Clients & Naptime

Social links:

Follow the podcast:

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