I Can’t Do It All — Learning to Let Go, Slow Down & Find My Version of Balance

Can you tell us a little about you and your family:

I’m a producer, director and artist based on the South Coast of New South Wales, where I live with my husband Scott, our daughter Goldie (4.5), our son Banks (1), and our groodle, Mr Waggs. Life here is a little slower, which has been a conscious shift for our family.

My work has always centred around storytelling — from years in television and content production to now creating Wildfemmes, a photographic and interview series that celebrates women, their forms, and their stories in a meaningful and authentic way.

My husband is the founder and CEO of Skin Check Champions, a not-for-profit focused on the early detection of Australia’s deadliest cancer. Between us, there’s a strong thread of purpose-led work, balanced with a very real, very full family life and the need to always be as close as possible to the ocean.

Adjusting to motherhood..

It’s hard to pin down just one big adjustment when it comes to motherhood, but a couple that really stood out were

understanding that my identity is no longer my profession — that took some work — relinquishing control over schedules (for obvious reasons), and the shift in dynamic in my relationship with my partner.

How do you manage the juggle when it comes to trying to do it all?

I tend not to use the word “juggle” as it makes me feel a little clown-like… however my answer is simple — I don’t lol.

For me, it’s very apparent I can’t do it all, all at once. What I am getting better at is prioritising, which I think will be an eternal work in progress.

It takes a lot of communication, empathy and patience — with yourself and those around you. Like I said… always a work in progress. I still get over-ambitious and the universe has a little chuckle occasionally, but I like to call that balance.

The best thing about motherhood?

The fact that I get to be a mum at all. The complete adoration I have for my body for growing this glorious little human, and the connection we have with our daughter and the love she has for us. Nothing beats it.

The biggest challenge?

I found my breastfeeding journey really challenging. I was often engorged, my eldest, Goldie, had a shallow latch and started teething early, while Banks — thankfully — was a much easier feeder. It was a real test of commitment, but I’m quite stubborn and was determined to make it to a year with both children.

We’re based in NSW, with our family in Victoria, so navigating those early months without that close support while figuring everything out was tough. We quite literally high-fived each other at the end of the fourth trimester with Goldie; it felt like a genuine milestone.

What do you wish you knew before becoming a mum?

That regardless of what birthing classes, innovative birthing practices, or even TikTok say — you can’t always control the outcome of your birth.

I lean very natural, and for me a natural birth was the only way to go. So when the birth of my daughter went completely pear-shaped… it was hard not to feel guilt. Like I didn’t do enough, didn’t do it properly, or wasn’t strong enough.

Whilst I do believe our bodies are built for this, if it weren’t for medical intervention my daughter and I may not be here today. And for that, I’m incredibly grateful.

Any advice to manage the day-to-day juggle?

I’m not sure anyone is ever fully nailing it (def not me), but having a trusted circle of nannies or babysitters that your children genuinely enjoy makes a huge difference — it gives you the space to show up where you’re needed without the constant pull.

And perhaps a slightly controversial take… some days, if a little extra screen time helps you get things done, that’s okay. Let go of the guilt — it’s a long game, and we’re all just finding our way through it.

How do you manage your time?

After being stabled for nearly seven years, I went back to freelance when my first child Goldie was born as our family needed more flexibility. My views on trajectory have definitely changed, and I’m far more selective with the work I take on.

Life is very seasonal. I remember a conversation on The Imperfects podcast where Hugh Van Cuylenburg spoke about seasons in relationships — how you both can’t be “in season” at the same time — and that really resonated.

For me, productivity days are when the kids are at daycare. When they are  not, I try not to overcommit — personally or professionally — to ease the pressure.

‘Me time’ for both Scott and I is probably at the bottom of the list right now… but like I said — seasons.

Who is in your village?

We have a beautiful village on the south coast. As I mentioned, we don’t have family in the state, but we’ve been lucky to find friends who feel like family — they’re everything to us.

I love how small communities are so giving with their time, energy and wisdom — especially as parents with young kids, it’s so special. We hope our kids  carrie those values as they  grow.

My best friends are between Sydney and the Central Coast, and we have that kind of friendship where distance doesn’t matter — no formalities, nothing off the table. My chosen sisterhood.

You can’t leave home without:

My phone, wallet (yes, I still have one lol), a dusty rose lipstick, a good pen, and depending on the bag — Wet Ones (am I right, mums?).

Your favourite holiday spot?

I have a love affair with Greece — from Athens to the islands. In Athens, I stay with a friend who’s like a brother, and I recently spent time on Hydra, which has an incredible art community and such a strong feminine energy.

Why do you love it?

I truly appreciate the culture. But deep down, I’m an island girl at heart — the heat, crystal-clear water (another obsession), and the food… love, love, love.

Next on your Wishlist?

Buckle up: Nihi on Sumba, Sri Lanka, Zanzibar, Palawan Islands in the Philippines, Cook Islands, Sardinia… there’s more, but that’ll do for now.

Your favourite brand?

I’m linen mafia for life — brands like Dissh are amazing. We’re also a big hat family with farming in our blood so we love an Akubra.

Trend you’re loving?

I am a big fan of a set, and am loving all the beautiful sheer fabrics, with stunning lines. It feels very feminine and strong at the same time.

Trend you’re not loving?

Speed dealer sunnies and those tiny bike shorts that scrunch at your crack.

Latest brand discovery?

I haven’t purchased yet, but Sheree Commerford’s CANVS BOTTEGA — obsessed with everything they do and the stories behind their pieces.

Where do you shop?

Online.

A healthy lifestyle means…

Good nutrition that supports my body for the stage it’s in, moving my body, time in/by the ocean, quality family time, and personal growth — whatever that looks like (podcasts, books, courses, research).

How do you keep your body moving?

Long walks along our little slice of paradise, ocean swims, Pilates, and chasing a toddler.

Your top tips for living a healthy lifestyle?

There’s so much noise out there, so I think it’s about cherry-picking what works for your life. For us — sunshine and fresh air daily, a stocked fridge (when I can), self-awareness of your body and emotions (your body keeps the score), and daily movement.

Do you have any non-negotiables?

Good sleep (8 hours if I can), some kind of daily practice (meditation, journaling, affirmations), quality produce, daily movement, a bit of quiet time alone (a little peace goes a long way), and hydration. Anything extra is just a bonus.

What does “balance” mean to you?

Absolutely nothing lol. It’s always eluded me — probably chose the wrong industry for that.

But in this current chapter, it looks like being able to work, be present for drop-offs and bedtimes, plus a sprinkling of time with friends or hobbies, and regular date nights with my husband.

Scheduling it sounds boring, I know — but if you don’t, it doesn’t happen. Life is busy.