Can you tell us a little about you and your family?
I’m married, have a 7-year-old stepson, Tyler, and a two-and-a-half-year-old son, Remy.
Adjusting to motherhood…
My identity. It took me about a year after giving birth to start to feel a bit more settled in my role and what it meant to me as a woman. It has had a profound impact on who I am as a person, my perspective, my priorities. Did I still love the same pursuits, hobbies, and passions when I didn’t have time for them (or wasn’t making time)?
“What was my personal style when I’d spent so long in oversized button-down shirts and bike shorts? How could I become a more patient, present person when I hadn’t previously been? Lots of conflicts and things to reconcile.”
How do you manage the juggle?
You just don’t. It’s helpful to me to try to compartmentalise. When I’m with the kids, I’m with the kids. When I’m at work, I’m at work. And when I make time for myself, I try to be present there.
The best thing about motherhood?
The love you feel. My heart just feels fuller.
The biggest challenge?
Not getting pulled too into kid-world. Identifying who I am as a person first, and standing solidly there.
The biggest surprise of motherhood?
How great it would be.
What do you wish you knew before becoming a mum?
I am lucky with The Memo to be part of many important, vulnerable, raw conversations around what motherhood can feel like. Everyone’s experience is different, and the more we share our unique perspectives, the less pressure we will feel to do something ‘one way.’
Any advice to your past self or new mums?
Do not compare your baby or experience to others.
Any tips to manage the day-to-day juggle?
Ask for help!
How do you manage your time across career, parenting, and everything else?
Communication. My partner also has a very hands-on job – he runs a business – so we need to be in constant communication about who’s doing what, who’s where. Calendar coordination is key.
Who is in your village?
My husband and my super supportive business partner.
The 5 Things In Your Bag You Can’t Leave Home Without:
1. A giant drink bottle
2. Baby wipes
3. Laptop
4. Sunnies
5. Lip balm
Your favourite holiday spot?
My family have a home in Point Roadknight along the Great Ocean Road. It’s such a beautiful part of the world – big swims, lovely community, full of nature. There are no shops and you can walk to the beach in minutes, barefoot. We return for trips away from the hustle in winter and summer.
Next stop on the travel wishlist?
Japan with the kids – so fun!
Your favourite brand?
I’m wearing a lot of Friends with Frank. It’s Melbourne owned and designed.
The trend you’re loving?
Flat shoes. To be fair, not sure if it’s a trend, but my days of wearing stilettos are long gone.
The trend you can’t get on board with?
Capri pants. They take me back to being an awkward teenager!
Latest brand discovery?
Bondi Born swimwear.
Where do you do most of your fashion shopping?
Online. I love physical retail, but visiting it is a luxury!
What does a healthy lifestyle mean to you?
Moving my body a few times a week, it’s critical to my mental health.
How do you keep your body moving?
Amy Carmody Yoga and Peloton bikes and weights.
Top tips for maintaining a healthy lifestyle?
* A good vitamin (I love Flow State’s The Tenth)
* Calm X magnesium before bed
* Working out in the morning before the kids are awake (it’s the only time I get to myself and I treasure it) * Keeping the family moving, walking the dog to the park, and eating together as a family, offering veggies on the plate (even though more than likely they get refused!).
Your non-negotiables when it comes to health and wellness?
Physical exercise a few times a week – even if sometimes I have to do pilates while Remy watches Bluey, I get it done.
What does the word ‘balance’ mean to you?
Time to yourself.
Phoebe's picks
Metagenics CalmX Raspberry
The Tenth Co Flow State Supplement
The Memo Thirsty Mum Drink Bottle
