How soon is too soon to return to work after having a baby? Netballer Paige Hadley was back on the court ten weeks postpartum — and the internet had thoughts. Monique, Amelia, and Clare unpack why we all have so much to say about other women's postpartum choices.

If you've ever given up on pairing the kids' sock or let them quit that extracurricular activity — you might be a 'Beta Mum'. We dive into why mums are rejecting the optimised parenting grind and whether it's a feminist revolution or just collective burnout.

Plus, the low-key genius parenting hacks hiding in a Reddit thread, and this week's recommendations.

Reccos

Amelia recommends Celeste Barber's BOOIE Excellent BB Cream. And right now, it's $40 at Woolies.

Monz is loving Bad Company on the ABC, if you love Fisk, Utopia or Australian comedy, this is your show. 

Clare recommends Smocks by Little Chomps to protect your little one's clothes every meal time.

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What To Listen To Next: 

• Don't miss an episode of Parenting Out Loud
• The School Holiday Rule & The Big Bluey Stuff Up
• The Holiday Decision One Mum Regrets & Party Bags Are Officially Cancelled
• So, Are You A Popcorn Mum?
• The Lunchbox Theory & Our Complicated Feelings About YouTube
• The 3-Hour Mum & The Viral 'Jessica' Hack
• Golden Retriever Dads & The ‘You Come Last’ Rule
• The Celebrity Who Loves Bad Kids & The Sibling Effect
• Connect your subscription to Apple Podcasts 

What to read: 

• You're not a hot mess. You're just a Type C parent.
• 10 parents told us the best hacks guaranteed to halve your mental load.
• 'Balance doesn't exist': 12 women on what they wish they knew about going back to work after maternity leave.
• 7 (totally non HR-approved) tips for your first day of work after maternity leave.

GET IN TOUCH:

Share your feedback! Send us a voice message or email us at podcast@mamamia.com.au 

Join our Facebook group Mamamia Family to talk about the show.

Follow us on Instagram @mamamia_family

CREDITS:

Hosts: Monique Bowley, Amelia Lester & Clare Stephens

Group Executive Producer: Ruth Devine

Content Manager: Talissa Bazaz

Executive Producer: Sasha Tannock

Video Editor: Julian Rosario

Junior Content Producer: Tessa Kotowicz

Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land on which we have recorded this podcast.