Mum Era

• Q&A’s From the Village

  We switched things up with a listener Q&A! Renee and Olivia answer your Instagram questions — from whether after-birth contractions feel worse the second time, to the hardest parts of going from one to two kids, how to keep a toddler occupied while breastfeeding, getting out the door with a “selective hearing” toddler, and the messy juggle of returning to work. With humour and honesty, they share real day-in-the-life rhythms, small hacks that make big differences, and why repair beats perfection when we inevitably snap. It’s a loving reminder that the season is fleeting, the village matters, and you’re never doing it alone.What to Expect in This Episode:After-birth contractions can feel stronger with subsequent births (experiences vary).Time is the toughest part of going from one to two — for kids, partners and yourself.Early weeks are logistics heavy; routine returns and outings get easier with practice.Day-in-the-life: park/library runs, nap overlaps, bath play, and flexible evenings.Breastfeeding a newborn with a toddler around: simple set-ups and (sometimes) screen time.Leaving the house: get low, make eye contact, offer two choices, keep it playful.Gentle bribery (hello babychinos and lollipops) can smooth transitions.Freezer back-ups and “combine the chaos” dinners with friends save sanity.Returning to work is individual; release perfection and prioritise repair over “perfect” days.Doubt and snapping happen — apologise, reconnect, and keep going.Things We Mention:​Low-stimulation kids’ picks: Snail and the Whale, Zog (ABC iview; also on Stan for downloads)​Toddler entertainment: sensory/activity boxes, magnet tiles, simple pre-set play scenes​Music/TV: The Wiggles (used intentionally and in short bursts)​Bribes/treats: babychinos, FUNDAY sweets lollipops for travel/transitions​Household helpers: whiteboard on the fridge for reminders; Koala Eco for gentler cleaning​Meals & freezer staples: Made For Mothers (Sri Lankan chicken curry), Le Purée purées, backup lamb cutlets, meatballs, frozen veg​Practical parenting tips: “choices over commands,” prep outfits the night before, carrier at witching hourConnect with Mum Era Podcast Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠ Website: ⁠mumerapodcast.com ⁠Instagram:  ⁠mumerapodcast⁠Connect with Renee:  Instagram:  ⁠@reneebargh⁠Connect with Olivia:  Instagram:  ⁠@oliviajdavies⁠

  --------  

  50:47

  --------

  50:47
• We are BACK, baby.

  Keywordsmotherhood, parenting, mastitis, sleep deprivation, breastfeeding, work-life balance, travel with kids, creative play, healthy eating, community supportEpisode Summary:We’re back for season 2 (thank you for being so patient)! In this episode of the Mum Era podcast, hosts Renee and Olivia share candid conversations about the challenges and joys of motherhood. They discuss personal experiences with mastitis, sleep deprivation, and the complexities of returning to work after maternity leave. The conversation also touches on the importance of community support, creative play for children, and the balancing act of healthy eating amidst the chaos of parenting. With humour and honesty, they navigate the messy realities of being a mum, emphasising the need for connection and understanding in this journey.What to Expect in This Episode:Mastitis is a painful experience that many breastfeeding mothers face.Sleep deprivation can lead to increased anxiety and insecurity.It's important to find a supportive community of other mothers.Traveling with young children can be challenging but also rewarding.Creative play can help children develop skills and keep them engaged.Frozen meals can save time and reduce stress for busy mums.It's okay to rely on screen time occasionally for children's entertainment.Returning to work after maternity leave can be a difficult transition.Finding joy in parenting is essential for mental well-being.Every mother's journey is unique, and there should be no judgment on choices made.Things We Mention:Mastitis support: Qiara probiotic, homeopathy blends (Olivia) and vitamin protocolsBaby gear: Il Tutto nursing chair & co-sleeping bassinet, BabyBjörn bouncer, Lovevery play gymCarriers: Artipoppe, Bumpsuit and the Mamatoto toddler carrier for travelMeal support: Harvest Lane, Made For Mothers, Le Purée puréesShows: Mobland, The Better Sister, Department Q, Building the Band, Wild Croc Territory, SirensBooks: The Wedding People, The Housemaid, The Housemaid’s SecretMovement: hiring a treadmill from Pace Fitness HireConnect with Mum Era Podcast Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠ Website: ⁠mumerapodcast.com ⁠Instagram:  ⁠mumerapodcast⁠Connect with Renee:  Instagram:  ⁠@reneebargh⁠Connect with Olivia:  Instagram:  ⁠@oliviajdavies⁠

  --------  

  42:30

  --------

  42:30
• 19 - The Birth of Soleil: Renee’s Home Birth with Janine O’Brien

  In this deeply personal and moving episode of Mum Era, Renee Bargh shares the intimate details of her recent home birth, supported by her private midwife, Janine O’Brien. Janine was also the midwife for co-host Olivia Davies’ home birth with her son, making this conversation feel especially tender and connected.Together, they explore the layers of emotional connection, the importance of safe, supported environments in birth, and the healing power of telling our birth stories. From navigating fear to celebrating unexpected joy, this conversation is a love letter to women’s health, sovereignty in birth choices, and the midwives who hold space through one of life’s most sacred transitions.Sponsor: iL Tuttohttps://www.iltutto.com.auDiscount code for 20% off: MUM20Instagram: @iltuttoGuest: Janine O’BrienInstagram: ⁠@janineatibirthConnect with Mum Era Podcast Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠ Website: ⁠mumerapodcast.com⁠ Instagram:  ⁠@mumerapodcast⁠ Connect with Renee:  Instagram:  ⁠@reneebargh⁠ Connect with Olivia:  Instagram: ⁠@oliviajdavies⁠

  --------  

  1:14:55

  --------

  1:14:55
• 18 - Motherhood in Style and Active Self-Care Rituals with Cat Sanz

  Motherhood is a wild, beautiful, and often chaotic journey—one that can leave us feeling stretched between self-identity, family life, and career. In this episode of Mum Era, we sit down with Cat Sanz, a fashion entrepreneur and powerhouse, who shares her deeply personal and inspiring journey. Cat opens up about navigating motherhood while staying true to herself, curating a personal style that feels authentic, and embracing life’s transitions with confidence. We dive into the delicate balance of raising kids, running a business, and prioritising self-care, all while acknowledging the ever-present mental load of parenting. Cat takes us through her career evolution—from working in her husband's real estate business to launching her own fashion brand—and how motherhood reshaped her sense of identity and style. She offers invaluable insights on feeling confident in postpartum dressing, the importance of comfortable fashion, and redefining personal style as a mum. We also explore the influence of social media on self-perception, the power of personal branding, and the importance of setting boundaries to protect mental wellbeing. With humour, warmth, and honesty, we discuss the realities of juggling it all—work, kids, relationships, and self-worth—while also touching on resilience, healing through loss, and the strength found in familial bonds. Whether you're in the thick of early motherhood or looking for inspiration to reconnect with yourself, this episode is packed with heart, style, and relatable moments. Tune in for a conversation that encourages you to embrace imperfection, find joy in the little things, and prioritise yourself alongside your family. Guest: Cat Sanz Instagram: ⁠@catsanz Connect with Mum Era Podcast  Email: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠  Website: ⁠⁠mumerapodcast.com⁠⁠  Instagram:  ⁠⁠@mumerapodcast⁠⁠  Connect with Renee:  Instagram:  ⁠⁠@reneebargh⁠⁠  Connect with Olivia:  Instagram: ⁠⁠@oliviajdavies⁠⁠ 

  --------  

  56:12

  --------

  56:12
• 17 - Birth, Power, and Healing: Redefining Postpartum with Bernadette Lack

  Birth is often framed as something to endure rather than embrace, but what if we could shift that narrative? This week, we’re joined by the incredible Bernadette Lack—renowned midwife, birth educator, and founder of Core and Floor Restore—who is on a mission to help women feel strong, informed, and empowered throughout pregnancy, birth, and beyond. In this powerful conversation, B shares her deeply personal journey, from struggling with incontinence post-birth to becoming a leading advocate for women’s health and birth trauma awareness. With wisdom and warmth, she unpacks the nuances of childbirth and postpartum recovery, shedding light on the physical, emotional, and societal factors that shape a woman's experience. We dive into the often-overlooked realities of birth trauma, how it manifests, and why it’s crucial to acknowledge and address it. B also highlights the incredible role of oxytocin and the parasympathetic nervous system in fostering a positive birth experience and explains how we can better support women during this transformative time. From the impact of intergenerational trauma to the importance of understanding our menstrual cycles, this episode is a rich exploration of the many ways women can reclaim their power in motherhood. If you’re navigating pregnancy, postpartum, or simply want to better understand the innate strength of the female body, this conversation is for you. Join us for an inspiring, eye-opening episode that reminds us of the power, resilience, and wisdom that lie within every mother. Sponsor:  Nudie Rudie https://www.nudierudielunchbox.com.au Discount code for 20% off your entire order: mumera Guest: Bernadette Lack - Core and Floor Restore Instagram: ⁠@coreandfloorrestore Connect with Mum Era Podcast  Email: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠  Website: ⁠⁠mumerapodcast.com⁠⁠  Instagram:  ⁠⁠@mumerapodcast⁠⁠  Connect with Renee:  Instagram:  ⁠⁠@reneebargh⁠⁠  Connect with Olivia:  Instagram: ⁠⁠@oliviajdavies⁠⁠ 

  --------  

  1:03:52

  --------

  1:03:52

More Kids & Family podcasts

Trending Kids & Family podcasts

About Mum Era