Explore every episode of the podcast Motherland Australia
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 234: Clare Hockings from Farmer Wants a Wife was pregnant when her finale aired | 08 Sep 2024 | 00:48:40 | |
When people go on a reality TV show to find the love of their life, it doesn’t always end in a baby announcement and a full-blown commitment to each other. But when Clare Hockings decided to try to find her life partner on Farmer Wants A Wife in 2023, well, things kind of ended that way. Clare was raised in Scone NSW, Australia’s horse capital. And later in the country music capital of Tamworth. She worked in childcare and the local stockyards and spent her weekends with her horses. So she knew what she was getting into when she decided to look for love with a farmer. And when she met farmer Brad from Cootamundra, she was pretty smitten. But at one point, Clare wanted to leave the show, but Brad asked her not to. And lucky he did that because when the final episode of the season went to air, Clare was already living with Brad, and she was pregnant! Clare and I talk about everything from finding love on reality TV to what happens when you find out you're pregnant in a relatively new relationship, and what the first eight months of rural motherhood have been like for her. Motherland will be back in your ears on Monday October 7 with a brand new Spring season! | |||
| 233: Deb Frecklington's journey as farmer, mother, lawyer, & LNP leader | 01 Sep 2024 | 00:47:48 | |
I met Deb Frecklington at Beef Week in Rockhampton this year at a cocktail party, and before she knew it, I’d roped her into sharing her story for the first time like this. Deb is a proud Queenslander who grew up on a cattle property. She’s worn many hats throughout her career including producer, and, politician. Amongst it all, she’s a mum to three girls. | |||
| 224: Why Emily Mealey is so grateful her mum insisted she went to the doctor | 09 Jun 2024 | 00:40:28 | |
Today's episode is special for two reasons, firstly, it's our last episode of our Autumn season, proudly sponsored by Nutrien Ag Solutions. Secondly, you're about to hear Emily Mealey's story, and she's a Senior Account Manager in Insurance at Nutrien, and a mum of two. She's based in Dubbo, and met her husband at the tender age of 18 after having a minor car prang! Financially as a young family, things were tough, really tough, but Emily and her husband made it work. A few years later Emily found herself in a very dark place, and very stressed, and today she talks openly about that time and how she got through it. A warning, this episode touches on mental health including suicidal thoughts, so if you or anyone you know needs help please contact Lifeline immediately on 13 11 14. | |||
| 142: Keelen Mailman's story of survival and triumph against all the odds | 11 Sep 2022 | 00:57:23 | |
Keelen Mailman is a proud Bidjara woman who 25 years ago became the first Aboriginal woman to manage a commercial cattle station, and she still lives on that property today. Keleen grew up in an Aboriginal camp on the edge of the town of Augathella, and her story is about overcoming all the odds. She's survived poverty, racism and abuse, including horrific domestic violence. As a single mum, she's raised three children of her own, but also took in five nieces of her nieces and nephews. What Keelen's endured and overcome over the years is extraordinary. She pens it all in her memoir, The Power of Bones, which also details her seven year struggle to have the remains of her ancestors returned to country. Strap yourselves in for Keelen. This is her story. | |||
| 141: R U OK? Because Jess Bargenquast was far from it | 04 Sep 2022 | 00:43:58 | |
Are you okay? It's the question that changed everything for Jess Bargenquast. Because as a mum, a wife, and an employee, Jess was far from okay. The pressures of life, the motherload, and the constant people pleasing led her to breaking point Then, just as she'd started to put the pieces back together, Jess's dad took his own life, and she hit rock bottom. Jess is ready to share her story, and and she wants to share it now. This Thursday is R U OK? Day, and I hope her story reminds every one to look after each other and to ask the simple question that could save a life. This is her story. | |||
| 140: Robyn Verrall was a single mum when her life took an unexpected twist | 28 Aug 2022 | 00:46:21 | |
Robyn Verrall unexpectedly fell pregnant when she was 19, and six months into her pregnancy, her relationship ended. As a nurse and a young single mum, she battled at times just to buy food and support her little girl- and it's these struggles with food security that has ignited her passion to support others through her busines Bully's Meats. Robyn is the AgriFutures Rural Women's Award South Australian Winner and she's been in the headlines- but her story and her motherhood journey has never been told like this. Ironically, she moved to land and later started her meat business after swearing she'd never marry a farmer, but she did. A man who had been there all long- a romance that blossomed thanks to her 20 year high school reunion. This is her story. Merry People are reimagining gumboots with their comfortable, durable and stylish designs! Made to wear anywhere and everywhere by anyone, in rain, hail or shine…more than gumboots - these are the perfect everyday boot! Go to merrypeople.com to find out more. | |||
| 139: The day Louise O'Neill found her husband crying in a paddock | 21 Aug 2022 | 00:47:59 | |
Louise O'Neill knows what it's like to hit burn out as a rural family. She was pregnant with her first child when her husband hit breaking point physically and mentally. After that, they revaluated everything and made some big decisions, one of them was to sell their 5th generation family farm and start fresh elsewhere. Amongst it all, Louise started her business Farm Life Fitness to support the health and wellbeing programs of farming families, and it's her work that saw her win the AgriFutures Rural Women's Award for Western Australia. Louise is originally from the UK, and went travelling around Australia before an ad on Gumtree changed everything. This is her story. | |||
| 138: How Linda Goldspink-Lord survived the loss of her daughter | 14 Aug 2022 | 00:56:32 | |
Linda Goldspink-Lord has endured unimaginable pain. She suffered a health crisis after burning the candle at both ends at home and at work, and then soon after she lost her mum to cancer. But 10 years ago Linda was dealt the cruelest blow of all when her 13 year old daughter Molly died in a quad bike accident on their NSW property. Linda's story is one of grief and trauma, but it's also about how she's managed to crawl through the darkness as she calls it, the inspiration for her incredible book. The work she's done to save herself, save her marriage and her family is quite extraordinary and our chat is as uplifting as it is heartbreaking. This is Linda's story. Perfect for both on the farm or running errands in town, Merry People are the only boots you need. They’re durable, comfortable, 100% waterproof and keep you looking stylish from morning to night. Go to Merrypeople.com to learn more and see the range! | |||
| 137: At 32 weeks pregnant Hayley Price was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer | 07 Aug 2022 | 00:40:02 | |
Station mum Hayley Price was 32 weeks pregnant with her first baby when she was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma. She was then faced with an unimaginable decision when she was told she needed to give birth prematurely so she could commence chemotherapy that would hopefully save her life. Hayley and her husband had to suddenly leave their life on the land and move into temporary accommodation in Townsville 600 kilometres from home. They stayed there for for six months, and thankfully had the support of their employer who helped keep them afloat. This is her story. SPONSORS Is getting your will done on your to-do list? It needs to be! Book in for your FREE 15 minute call and see if self-confessed wills nerds, Nicky Grummitt and Julia Atkinson are right for you. Whether you need to kick off succession planning or help pick guardians, the Glaw team would love to hear from you. Visit www.glaw.com.au or @Grevillea_Law on socials. Merry People: Merry People have incredible, versatile waterproof boots so stylish and functional they're not just for the farm, but for work, town and school drop off. Available in a range of colours and styles to suit everyone, they’re loved by many as the perfect everyday versatile boot! Go to Merrypeople.com to learn more and discover the range. | |||
| 136: The day Libby Finlayson's husband said he didn't love her anymore | 31 Jul 2022 | 00:47:17 | |
Libby Finlayson grew up on a station in WA. She fell in love in a farmer and moved to a property where they went on to have three children. But one day, out of the blue, everything changed with five heartbreaking words from her husband. Libby was blindsided by a breakup she didn't see coming, and soon after, she had to leave the farm with her three young children, and start all over again. Libby gives an incredibly honest insight into rural divorce, and shares the no BS advice every rural couple should hear. This is her story.*A warning this episode does contain some coarse language. SPONSOR: Why Wonder helps you talk to your pre and primary aged kids about sex ed... without the awkwardness! They offer three online courses for parents/carers to do with their 4-13 year old children, from puberty to how babies are made. They also have FREE resources you can download- just head to www.whywonder.com.au | |||
| 135: Diana Butler and the trip to Africa that transformed her life | 03 Jul 2022 | 00:48:14 | |
From rural Tasmania to remote Tanzania, Diana Butler has dedicated her life to helping others. She's the founder of the Care For Africa Foundation by day, and the after hours nurse manager at a hospital by night. She's raised three boys on the land, and she's had to overcome unimaginable heartbreak as a mother. In our very candid chat, she shares the pain of losing her first born child and the breakdown of her marriage including what it was like trying to reinvent herself after leaving the farm and becoming a single mum. In 2016, Diana was awarded an Order of Australia Medal for her work as the CEO of Care for Africa which helps fight poverty and provides water, health, education and enterprise for one of the world's poorest countries. This is her story. SPONSOR: The Woolly Brand offers Australian Woolmark certified, extra-fine merino wool knitwear for infants and children. Designed to be smart, sustainable and handle the daily rough and tumble- it's an opportunity to start a new generation of hand-me down knitwear! For a 10% DISCOUNT, use the code MOTHERLAND10 at the checkout. Head to www.thewoollybrand.com.au to shop! | |||
| 134: Kaz Bishton and the deadly farming accident that changed everything | 26 Jun 2022 | 01:00:07 | |
In 2012, Kaz Bishton's farm went from being her family's sanctuary, a place of freedom and adventure, to a place of trauma and grief. Every year, lives are lost in tragic farming accidents; we read about them, but we rarely hear from the people affected. Kaz has bravely decided to share her story. 10 years ago, her 12 year old nephew died on her farm when a ute that was being driven by her teenage daughter rolled. That day changed everything, and Kaz is about to share her journey as a mum of five before that fateful day, and also how her family coped during the hardest time of their lives. This is her story. SPONSOR: Pharmonline.com.au offers personalised health advice and support from experienced pharmacists without leaving home. Their team can review your medication, provide treatment suggestions or refer you for further investigations. You can book an individualised online consult when it suits you or call 1300 742 769 for an immediate answer. You’ll receive written recommendations for treatment to take to your local health provider. All for $39! And if you’re one of the 41 thousand women who are diagnosed with gestational diabetes each year, PharmOnline has a dedicated gestational diabetes support program that will help you provide the best possible care for your sugar baby. | |||
| 133: Dairy farmer & grandma June Tarlinton survived the Black Summer fires | 19 Jun 2022 | 00:47:01 | |
June Tarlinton was born to droving parents and spent her childhood in the bush, living in tents. She's now a mum of three and grandma who's had quite the adventure. She's a dairy farmer on the the far south coast of NSW and has been married for 40 years. She's weathered plenty of highs and lows, but the hardest came just three years ago during the Black Summer fires where she found herself in the fight of her life. Tragically, June lost her father during the disaster, and since then, has been focusing on her family and rebuilding their life on the land. This is her story. SPONSOR: Custom Cutting studio is a metal work business based in rural NSW and they make property, house, and business signage as well as silhouettes and artwork. Their signage is fully customisable, from font and size, to colour and shape, and even include your favourite animal if requested. Custom signs make fabulous gifts for those impossible to buy for, or just to make a statement as someone drives in the front gate. They can ship products Australia wide and they're offering Motherland listeners 15% off custom made signs! To order, please message them via their Instagram or Facebook page or email admin@customcuttingstudio.com.au and mention Motherland to receive the discount.You can also take a look at some of their work at customcuttingstudio.com.au | |||
| 223: Veteran journalist Chris Bath swapped life on TV for time in the tractor | 02 Jun 2024 | 01:02:59 | |
Chris Bath has been a much loved and respected journalist since the late 80's and many of us, including myself, grew up watching her on our TV screens. She's interviewed Presidents, Prime Ministers and popstars, and pushed herself way outside her comfort zone when she carved up the dance floor on Dancing with the Stars! Chris met her husband Jim Wilson at work. The news anchor fell in love with the sports anchor, it's like something out of a movie, and very funny! In 2015, Chris resigned from Channel 7 where she'd worked for 20 years, and before she knew it, she'd fallen head over heels for another industry... farming. She's got one grown up son, and now lives full time on a farm in the Lower Hunter in NSW...she's an accidental beekeeper with an incredible love for the land. How she ended up here is quite the tale, and you're going to love her! This is her story. | |||
| 132: Emergency doctor Kate Field moved from the city to the country for cheese | 12 Jun 2022 | 00:57:54 | |
Kate Field and her husband love cheese so much that 10 years ago, they packed up life in Sydney and bought a farm in Tasmania to become cheesemakers. They started their own dairy goat herd and have grown their business to something very special. But there's a lot more to Kate's story than wrangling kids- both the goat kind and the human kind! Kate is also an emergency doctor at the Royal Hobart Hospital and her journey through pregnancy, motherhood and life on the land is quite the tale. Kate was also one of three Tasmanian finalists for the AgriFutures Rural Women's Award and it's been a thrill to get to know her. This is her story. GOLD SPONSOR: Shopping online at birdsnest gives you access to everything your wardrobe needs, all from the one place. With express shipping, 365 day returns and an incredible customer support team - the convenience factor is unmatchable for those of us juggling Mum life. birdsnest are just about to launch Nest Stays where visitors and groups can stay in lovingly renovated heritage terraces that are a hop, skip and a jump away from the ‘nest’.If you are in need of a weekend of laughs, adventure, connection and maybe a wardrobe revamp, gather your girlfriends and escape to birdsnest. www.birdsnest.com.au | |||
| 131: Nikki Mahony on life in France & her husband's cancer diagnosis | 05 Jun 2022 | 00:53:50 | |
Nikki Mahony has done what some rural families could only dream of, she managed to get her husband off the farm, and together with their three kids, they moved overseas, spending 18 months living in the middle of France, and you're about hear all about it. The trip was inspired by a 'life is too short' mentality...and unfortunately, after returning home to Australia, that saying took on a whole new meaning. At just 43, Nikki's husband was diagnosed with cancer. And it all started with a stomach ache everyone thought was in innocent bug. This is her story. GOLD SPONSOR: Based in regional NSW, the team at birdsnest not only understand the lifestyle of those of us from these parts of Australia, they also understand the importance of connection and community. Birdsnest have built a wonderful social network where they share their love of style.It’s here that you can meet the team through weekly live videos and posts that all aim to support, encourage and help women find their confidence and love the feathers their in.Follow birdsnest on Facebook and Instagram or join their private Facebook group ‘birdsnest Wardrobe Wingbirds’ for a fun and welcoming space where you can share style pics, ask for advice, and connect with your fellow ‘wingbirds’. Shop online at www.birdsnest.com.au | |||
| 130: When her partner didn't propose, Dimity Smith decided to freeze her eggs | 29 May 2022 | 00:41:18 | |
Dimity Smith has decided to share a very private battle of hers, very publicly for the first time. At 35 she says she'd always imagined she'd be a mum by now, raising her children in a loving home with a husband by her side. She wants nothing more. But a couple of years ago, after waiting and waiting for a proposal that never came, the long term relationship she was in fell apart, and so did she. But with the support of her family, she decided to jump in the driver's seat and take control, and she's just started the process of freezing her eggs. Mr right might be just around the corner. But if he's not, Dimity is prepared to go it alone. This is her story. GOLD SPONSOR: At birdsnest you can shop online the way you want whether it's by body shape, occassion, or even by the fibres you might be growing on your farm. Browse thousands of curated outfits to inspire your wardrobe or fill out your own Style Profile to receive personalised style recommendations and a free Style guide just for you. As a mum-led business based in Cooma, Birdsnest understands how busy you are but how much you deserve to treat yourself. It’s a shopping experience like no other with 365 day returns and a handwritten note from one of the team with your precious parcel. Visit birdsnest.com.au | |||
| 129: Kelly Foran was diagnosed with a massive brain tumour at 8 months pregnant | 22 May 2022 | 00:53:08 | |
Kelly Foran was eight months pregnant when doctors discovered she had a massive brain tumour. She was rushed to hospital where the fight was on to save not only her, but her baby boy who was born with a life threatening illness. There was more heartache ahead when Kelly suffered a stroke during surgery to remove her tumour. It Left her unable to walk, talk or care for her son for several months. Her family had to navigate the complex health system in the big smoke alone for years. And that inspired her to create Friendly Faces, Helping Hands, a charity that assists rural and remote families to access health services and provides support to families in hospital. The foundation has helped thousands. This is her story. GOLD SPONSOR: When your lifestyle lends itself to jeans and a shirt, it’s such a treat to ditch those and hop into something a little different-an outfit you feel great in really can give you a whole new air of confidence. The team at birdsnest have created the most incredible online shopping experience and have a huge range from everyday wear to eveningwear in sizes 8 to 24. Their delivery is fast and free for orders over $150, and a big win for rural listeners is that if your order isn’t quite right for you, you have a whole year to return it! Head to www.birdsnest.com.au to shop! | |||
| 128: Gabrielle Chan swapped her parliament house press pass in Canberra for life on the land | 15 May 2022 | 00:41:35 | |
Gabrielle Chan is a political journalist and the rural editor of the Guardian Australia. She's a fierce advocate for the bush, a loyalty and understanding that stems from her own experience as a rural mum. Gabrielle grew up in the city, and only moved to a farm when she was married and 8 months pregnant. Her new life started as a shock to the system, before her love for her community seeped into her bones and set her on a mission to uncover and report on the real issues facing rural Australia. With the federal election this weekend, our catch up is fitting. This is her story. SPONSOR: Anna Lowrey is a mum from Armidale, New South Wales, and she created nonastiesforeverybody.com to provide women with natural, sustainable beauty products. After long days in the sun and saddle testing all the products, she includes ANNA'S ADVICE in the description of every product so you can find personal anecdotes to help with your choices. Connect on Instagram through @nonasties_beauty. Use the code MOTHERLAND for 20% OFF your first order. | |||
| 127: How paraplegic and aspiring Paralympian Felicity Weal manages motherhood | 08 May 2022 | 00:47:20 | |
Felicity Weal was just 21 years old when she had an accident on the farm that changed her life forever, causing her to become a paraplegic. Paralysed from the waist down, Felicity had to relearn basic life skills, and adjust to her new reality in a wheelchair. But two years ago she became a mum for the first time, which has presented new challenges, none of which phase her in the slightest. She is such a tenacious young mum with a deep love for her horses, and now, she's revealed her plans to represent Australia at the Paralympics. This is her story. SPONSOR: Anna Lowrey is a mum from Armidale, New South Wales, and she created nonastiesforeverybody.com to provide women with natural, sustainable beauty products. After long days in the sun and saddle testing all the products, she includes ANNA'S ADVICE in the description of every product so you can find personal anecdotes to help with your choices. Connect on Instagram through @nonasties_beauty. Use the code MOTHERLAND for 20% OFF your first order. | |||
| 126: Why country music artist Ell Regan sings at one of Australia's most remote roadhouses | 01 May 2022 | 00:38:17 | |
Ell Regan is a country music artist who left her home town and family in NSW to move to one of the most remote parts of outback Australia. She now sings at Barkly Homestead, a roadhouse which is the first and only stop for travelers crossing the Queensland border into the Northern Territory. Ell happily drives five hours to Woolies just to do a click and collect, all with her one year old son by her side. The pandemic put the brakes on her music career for a while, but it enabled her to focus on motherhood which has been a rollercoaster and a difficult transition at times, but one which she's overcome by focusing on one thing... having FUN. This is her story. SPONSOR: Benita Bensch is a coach, a certified motherhood studies practitioner and rural mum who helps busy mothers reconnect with who they are and thrive in their own way. Next Tuesday May 10 Benita is hosting a 75 minute online workshop titled: Who Am I Now? When Motherhood Changes Everything. Register at benitabensch.com. In this interactive workshop, Benita will guide you through your identity evolution from the ‘old you’ pre-children, to loving the ‘new you’ as a woman AND mother. | |||
| 125: Lyn Kelson's incredible story of survival after her husband's suicide | 24 Apr 2022 | 00:55:45 | |
Lyn Kelson is a farmer, a mum, and a grandmother who's story of survival and resilience is unbelievable. Lyn's youngest children were just two and three years old when her husband committed suicide. She was widowed at the age of 26 , left to pick up the pieces of her broken heart and broken family. But just as she started to rebuild their lives, a devastating bush fire destroyed everything. Lyn has lived many lives, and she's never shared her story so openly, so it's a privilege to share it with you today. This is her story. A warning: This episode discusses suicide and might be triggering for some people. If you or anyone you know needs help, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14. GOLD SPONSOR: Are you a busy Mum feeling like you want more, but struggling with the guilt and confidence to take action? Benita Bensch can help you. Benita is a coach, certified motherhood studies practitioner and rural mum who helps busy mothers reconnect with who they are and thrive in their own way. Benita has a live group coaching program designed especially for juggling Mums. Visit benitabensch.com for more information. It’s a motivating, life-changing 12 week program called Illuminate that re-awakens, provokes clarity, and builds confidence so you can go after your dreams. | |||
| 124: The untold story of bestselling rural author Fleur McDonald | 17 Apr 2022 | 01:00:59 | |
Fleur McDonald is one of Australia's best selling rural authors and many of us know her for her gripping crime novels inspired by life on the land. But she's never shared her own story quite like this. Fleur is an incredible woman who raised two children with disabilities on a remote station in Western Australia. She also left an incredibly toxic marriage and went on to start an amazing organisation supporting those experiencing domestic violence. Fleur was told many times that her writing was a silly hobby and something to be done only on a Sunday afternoon after all the house work was done. Well who's laughing now? This is her story. GOLD SPONSOR: Are you a busy Mum tired of feeling anxious and overwhelmed with the juggle? Benita Bensch can help you. Benita is a coach, certified motherhood studies practitioner and rural mum who helps busy mothers reconnect with who they are and thrive in their own way. Benita offers 1:1 clarity coaching calls for women who want 60 minutes of one-off or ongoing private coaching. Visit benitabensch.com to book. | |||
| 123: A redundancy left Sam Noon farmless and homeless at 36 weeks pregnant | 10 Apr 2022 | 00:38:29 | |
What happens when live on the land doesn't go the way you planned? Sam Noon was living the dream with her husband, working on a farm when the live export ban hit and overnight, they lost everything. Four weeks before having her first baby, they were made redundant and sent packing. Over the following years they battled their way back to the land, before being dealt another cruel blow by a crippling drought. To get back on their feet, it was Sam who stepped up, found a job in town and went to work, while her husband shifting from farming to being a full time dad. This is her story. GOLD SPONSOR: Are you a busy Mum struggling to find time for what you want and need? Benita Bensch can help you. Benita is a coach, certified motherhood studies practitioner and rural mum who helps busy mothers reconnect with who they are and thrive in their own way. Benita has a free 5-day affirmation email series to help you transform limiting beliefs and create positive change. Go to Benita’s website benitabensch.com to sign up. The series includes simple mindset tips and affirmation advice, plus 5 beautifully designed printable affirmations and screensavers - all delivered to your inbox. Visit benitabensch.com to begin. | |||
| 222: The unimaginable pain Tara Parchert has been through... twice. | 26 May 2024 | 00:47:44 | |
Tara Parchert lives in the Lockyer Valley in Queensland, and runs a vegetable operation with her husband. She's busy raising two little girls, but has given birth to four. Tara fell pregnant with identical twin girls. After some pregnancy complications, she delivered them at just 26 weeks. Everything seemed to be going okay until 5 weeks later, when one twin got an infection... she didn't make it. Tara and her husband Had to grieve one child, while support the other one who was still fighting in NICU. In her second pregnancy, a heartbreaking 20 week scan left Tara and her husband with an unimaginable decision to make. She lost another baby girl. This episode is a really tough one, it covers the loss of a child, pregnancy termination and miscarriage. We've listed some support services below. While these conversations are never easy and Tara has never shared her story like this, she's doing so in the hopes it will help others, reduce some stigma, while also honouring all four of her children. | |||
| 122: Amanda Gilpin's daughter was diagnosed with childhood dementia | 03 Apr 2022 | 00:45:58 | |
When Amanda Gilpin first noticed some signs that her little girl Hollie was lagging a bit at school, she wasn't too concerned. But when she developed more sinister symptoms she sought medical help, and the truth was terrifying. Two years ago, Hollie was diagnosed with an extremely rare and incurable form of childhood dementia, known as Batten Disease - she's one of just two children in Australia who have it. Now, her family is hoping for a miracle, travelling far away from their home in Western Australia's Pilbara over to the US , hoping Hollie will one of only three children in the world to be selected for a groundbreaking new trial. https://www.gofundme.com/f/gofundmecomfhope-for-hollie SPONSOER: emMOO designs was created by new mum and business owner Steph Sullivan. Steph loves beautiful baby clothes and accessories and sells personalised lush cotton towels appliquéd with an individual initial in liberty, gingham and linen prints, along with gorgeous practical baby bibs and stunning gift boxes for babies and mums that are posted Australia wide. Have a look online at www.emmoodesigns.com.au. | |||
| 121: Rural mum & reporter Miranda Saunders in the thick of the NSW flood crisis | 27 Mar 2022 | 00:51:54 | |
A few months I put a call out, I was looking for someone, preferably a rural mum to help me with Motherland. That led me to the wonderful Miranda Saunders. Miranda has spent more than 20 years as a journalist working for the ABC, until she recently stepped back from her role to focus on her four children and their farm in the northern rivers of New South Wales. But it wasn't long before she was called back into work, and unfortunately one of those times was last month when her region was ravaged by the devastating floods. Miranda and I went from being in touch almost every day to not talking at all- for three days she was trapped on her farm with no communications. Today you'll hear not just what Miranda saw as a reporter on the ground, but how her own daily was impacted, and of course, we'll start with her own story and motherhood journey. This is her story. SPONSOR: Highly qualified agri-finance expert Carmen Quade launched AgriFocused to deliver high quality online training courses for farming families across the country, anywhere, anytime. Carmen's courses include videos, templates, and guidance that is first class. Want to know the ins and outs of running an effective farm office in less time? Farm Office Plus, the course for the lovers and haters of farm office work is coming soon. Or sign up for her free Farm Business Focus email group. Really practical hints and tips a couple of times a month to get you on the right track with your farm business, wherever you are at and wherever you are heading. Check them out at www.agrifocused.com.au. Use the code “motherland” to get 10% off. | |||
| 120: Born and bred bushy Maggie Dent on motherhood and raising resilient country kids | 20 Mar 2022 | 01:09:17 | |
Maggie Dent is a parenting author, educator and host of the ABC Parental As Anything podcast which kicks off its 5th season tomorrow! But, she's also a born and bred bushy. Maggie grew up in rural WA and her journey on and off the land has been full of extraordinary highs and heartbreaking lows. From a suicide attempt which then pushed her to find her life's purpose, through to raising four boys, she is now internationally recognised as the queen of common-sense when it comes to parenthood. Maggie knows country kids, and she'll make you proud to be a rural mum. This is her story. *Warning: This episode does touch on the issue of suicide. If you or anyone you know needs help, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 SPONSOR: Highly qualified agri-finance expert Carmen Quade launched AgriFocused to deliver high quality online training courses for farming families across the country, anywhere, anytime. Carmen's courses include videos, templates, and guidance that is first class. Want to know the ins and outs of running an effective farm office in less time? Farm Office Plus, the course for the lovers and haters of farm office work is coming soon. Or sign up for her free Farm Business Focus email group. Really practical hints and tips a couple of times a month to get you on the right track with your farm business, wherever you are at and wherever you are heading. Check them out at www.agrifocused.com.au. Use the code “motherland” to get 10% off. | |||
| 119: After mum of three Noelene Brown lost everything, she turned to alcohol to cope | 13 Mar 2022 | 00:54:06 | |
Noelene Brown spent 12 years in Ireland where she had her three children. Her and her first husband ran a storage business for fertiliser, and were embedded in the local farming community. But one day, without notice, the Irish government put one of their major clients into liquidation, and overnight, Noelene lost everything. Her kids were just 1, 2 and 3 years old, and when the pressure became too much, Noelene turned to the bottle. Her alcohol addiction escalated and it's something she has struggled with for many years both in Ireland, and since her return to Australia. But two years ago she went sober. Now, she's dedicated her life to the rural community as a sobriety coach. This is her story. | |||
| 118: Olympic Gold medalist turned macadamia farmer Giaan Rooney shares her darkest motherhood moments | 06 Mar 2022 | 00:52:29 | |
Olympic gold medalist Giaan Rooney shocked the swimming world when she retired at just 23 , and she hasn't swum a lap since. Her professional career both in and out of the pool has been widely publicised, but her personal life including her motherhood journey and her recent move to the land is something I'm very excited to share with you. Giaan is married to a fifth generation cattle farmer, but the couple recently make a bold move buying a macadamia farm, and they're have a real crack! This is her story. NOTE: Giaan lives just 20 minutes out of the flood ravaged town of Lismore and we recorded this episode a couple of weeks before the Queensland/NSW flood crisis began. Our thoughts are with everyone affected. More donations are needed, so please help if you can. Below are some organisations that need support to assist those who have lost their homes and their livelihoods. https://www.givit.org.au/https://lismore.nsw.gov.au/flood-2022-informationhttps://www.redcross.org.au/https://www.foodbank.org.au/ | |||
| 117: Life after war and what 88-year-old rural advocate Pat Fennell did with twenty quid | 27 Feb 2022 | 00:46:54 | |
In 1959 Pat Fennell (OAM) moved to a remote property that was bought by her husband's family under a ballot system after the first world war; they had just 20 quid in their pocket. Pat is an incredible woman so strap yourself in! She's been a disgraced divorcee in an era of inequality for women, a single mum, a working mum, a fierce advocate for the live export industry and for remote health. Oh, and she retired, then unretired at the age of 66. She has seen and done so much in her extraordinary 88 years. This is her story. SPONSOR: Nestled in the heart of the Beef Capital of Australia, Casino, is a small ladies boutique that has been dressing the gorgeous rural ladies of Northern NSW for over 20 years.At Arum, you can find the perfect outfit for key events including race days, weddings, functions or even just a lush picnic lunch. They’re offering FREE shipping for Motherland listeners. Use the code “Motherland” at the checkout.Visit www.arumcasino.com to view all of their goodies, or jump onto their Facebook and Instagram pages. | |||
| 116: Sarah Hope on divorce, grief, and motherhood in a blended family of six kids | 20 Feb 2022 | 00:46:32 | |
Sarah Hope’s youngest child was just four months old when she left her first husband and drove out of their farm with their three children in the middle of the night. She had nothing, and had to start from scratch to provide for her kids. However, her divorce ended up to be a very amicable split, and it was a very difficult time when she suddenly found herself grieving her ex husband after his sudden death. Sarah is now a rural mum in a big blended family of six children after she found love again. She describes it as beautiful chaos. And it’s quite the story. SPONSOR: Billie & Grace is a Ladies & Children's label mindfully made in rural Australia using natural fibres. Pieces that are practical yet stylish and will be worn for many years to come. Shop their gorgeous summer collection and receive 10% off using the code Motherland10- but hurry, offer ends this Sunday February 27. www.billieandgrace.com.au | |||
| 115: Darrilyn Gordon turned down a basketball career to become a station mum & climbed her way up to manager | 13 Feb 2022 | 00:54:00 | |
Darrilyn Gordon was just 17 years old when she found out she was pregnant. That same day, she was about to accept an offer to play professional basketball, a dream, she chose to walk away from to become a mum. But she's gone on to chase her new dream on the land as Manager of Lamboo station, an Aboriginal owned property spanning 360,000 hectares into the heart of the Kimberley. Darrilyn has smashed every glass ceiling on her way up in a world dominated by men, who also happen to be family. And as a recently single mum, she's done it all with her son right by her side. This is her story. SPONSOR:Highly qualified agri-finance expert Carmen Quade launched AgriFocused to deliver high quality online training courses for farming families across the country, anywhere, anytime. Carmen's courses include videos, templates, and guidance that is first class. Her Farm Budgeting Masterclass will teach you how to effectively set budgets, and manage cash flow. The Excel for Farmers course is great to sharpen up your spreadsheet skills with realistic, farm based examples. Want to know the ins and outs of running an effective farm office in less time? Farm Office Plus, the course for the lovers and haters of farm office work is coming soon. Check them out at www.agrifocused.com.au. Use the code “motherland” to get 10% off. | |||
| 114: How a car accident on the way home from the pub kicked Sally McManus's love life into gear | 06 Feb 2022 | 00:36:38 | |
Life is full of sliding door moments and for rural mum Sally McManus, a car accident on the way home from the pub changed everything. Growing up in the country side of England, Sally never expected to build her life and her family here, on the other side of the world. But that's what happened, and it's been far from a fairytale. Sally lives on a cattle station in Queensland, and her rural life, with motherhood thrown in the mix, has tested her resilience time and time again. This is her story. SPONSOR:Highly qualified agri-finance expert Carmen Quade launched AgriFocused to deliver high quality online training courses for farming families across the country, anywhere, anytime. Carmen's courses include videos, templates, and guidance that is first class. Her Farm Budgeting Masterclass will teach you how to effectively set budgets, and manage cash flow. The Excel for Farmers course is great to sharpen up your spreadsheet skills with realistic, farm based examples. Want to know the ins and outs of running an effective farm office in less time? Farm Office Plus, the course for the lovers and haters of farm office work is coming soon. Check them out at www.agrifocused.com.au. Use the code “motherland” to get 10% off. | |||
| 113: How rural mum Tanya Cameron went from avoiding the CWA to becoming national President | 30 Jan 2022 | 00:38:59 | |
Tanya Cameron (OAM) is a proud rural mum and grandma who has dedicated her time to advocating for country women. But given she's President of the Country Women's Association of Australia, it came as a bit of a shock that she never really wanted to join in the first place. During our chat, Tanya shares her journey juggling three kids, her work, and the shock news about the CWA I didn't see coming. This is her story. | |||
| 221: Clinical psychologist Rebecca Gilchrist gave birth on a plane | 19 May 2024 | 00:54:08 | |
Rebecca Gilchrist is a clinical psychologist who has a passion for supporting rural women; and she's pretty well placed to do that give she's also a rural mum and a farmer based on a 6th generation sheep and cattle station. Bec had her first baby on a plane; yep, on a plane, mid air when she was just 33 weeks pregnant. It was a very traumatic experience for her, although at the time, no one else knew that. In our chat, you'll hear about how her professional training has helped her, particularly with the crippling anxiety she felt returning to the farm with a premmie baby, and the psychoeducation tools that can help all of us. We also chat about navigating the different seasons of motherhood, well after the baby years, including dealing with overwhelm. This is her story. | |||
| 112: Photographer Stacey Ford on remote living in the Kimberley & the "kick in the arse" she needed | 23 Jan 2022 | 00:46:59 | |
This week I catch up with rural mum and photographer Stacey Ford who lives on the remote Fossil Downs Station in the Kimberley. Stacey was 18 when the north came calling and a chance meeting with a chopper pilot who she initially fobbed off changed everything. She now has four teenage daughters. We talk station life, homeschooling with a newborn and toddler at foot, her next chapter dealing with an empty nest, and the push she needed to pursue her passion. This is her story. SPONSOR: The Outback Pantry has an extensive range of baby, body, cleaning, inner health, skincare, kitchen products and offers certified organic, eco-friendly and natural products. The Outback Pantry now offers Subscribe & Save. Automatically save 15% on your favourite products by subscribing to a regular delivery of choice with no hassle and ability to cancel at any time. Shop online at theoutbackpantry.com.au. Exclusive FREE shipping with the discount code RURALMUM. | |||
| 111: McLeod's Daughters TV star Bridie Carter shares her life as a rural mum, farmer and actor | 16 Jan 2022 | 01:05:40 | |
Bridie Carter shot to fame when she starred as Tess McLeod in the hit TV series, McLeod's Daughters. 20 years on and two children later, she now splits her time between farming on her property in the Byron Bay Hinterland, and being an actor. We talk farm life, mum life, and the ups and the downs of her incredible life and career so far. This is her story. SPONSOR: Nestled in the heart of the Beef Capital of Australia, Casino, is a small ladies boutique that has been dressing the gorgeous rural ladies of Northern NSW for over 20 years.At Arum, you can find the perfect outfit for key events including race days, weddings, functions or even just a lush picnic lunch.They’re offering FREE shipping for Motherland listeners. Use the code “Motherland” at the checkout.Visit www.arumcasino.com to view all of their goodies, or jump onto their Facebook and Instagram pages. | |||
| 110: Love and loss in the middle of nowhere with best-selling author Terry Underwood | 09 Jan 2022 | 00:58:58 | |
Terry Underwood's story reads like it’s straight out of a novel. Her novel! The then 18 year old nurse had no idea how her life was to change when she met her future husband cattle icon John Underwood, while working at a Sydney hospital. This is an epic love story. Terry eventually moved to the Northern Territory to be with John, 600km south-west of Katherine where they began building their empire with their bare hands. Today, you'll hear the story of her first born son Martin who died at just nine months old from leukemia, and how isolation was a saviour for Terry in those initial years of grieving.You'll hear the challenges and the triumphs of living in one of the most remote parts of Australia and how Terry and John raised four children in the outback. This is her story. SPONSOR: The Outback Pantry is an online wellness store that offers an extensive baby range including cloth nappies, swim nappies, bamboo baby wipes, certified organic products, breast pads, change mats and wet bags. It was founded by Ellie Hays in 2020 who is passionate about bringing certified organic, eco-friendly and natural products to her wider rural community. You can shop online at theoutbackpantry.com.au. Ellie is offering 15% off with the discount code MOTHERLAND. | |||
| Episode 109: Claire Dunne | 12 Dec 2021 | 00:39:52 | |
For the final episode of 2021, I catch up with new rural mum Claire Dunne, founder of Graziher. Claire lives on a farm in New Zealand, a long way from her family and home town in Queensland. We've heard a lot about her business baby, but this chat was a chance for me to get to know her a little more personally. You'll hear about her long distance relationship with the farmer she met on an overseas trip, and her move across the Tasman. And of course life and the juggle with her little boy. This is her story. SPONSOR: Vivienne Cate offers a unique curated collection of cowhides, sheepskin, leather bags, hats, fashion and homewares - with a focus on natural materials and handmade products. The business is run by Karen O’Brien from her gorgeous shop front in the tiny town of Yackandandah in Victoria. You can shop Vivienne Cate’s exquisite collection online. Karen is offering $10 for flat rate EXPRESS shipping. The Christmas cut off date is December 15, so you better hurry! Visit www.viviennecate.com. | |||
| Episode 108: Hayley Backhouse | 05 Dec 2021 | 00:44:03 | |
This week, I catch up with rural mum Hayley Backhouse. Hayley is a horse trainer and competitor who recently won her first open futurity event. Hayley has two children from her first marriage, which heartbreakingly, ended in divorce. Today she shares her story on how she navigated her relationship breakdown, the shock of becoming a single mum with just $2,000 to her name, and how she found love again. This is her story. SPONSOR: Vivienne Cate offers a unique curated collection of cowhides, sheepskin, leather bags, hats, fashion and homewares - with a focus on natural materials and handmade products. The business is run by Karen O’Brien from her gorgeous shop front in the tiny town of Yackandandah in Victoria. You can shop Vivienne Cate’s exquisite collection online. Karen is offering $10 for flat rate EXPRESS shipping. The Christmas cut off date is December 15, so you better hurry! Visit www.viviennecate.com. | |||
| Episode 107: Cindy Walsh | 28 Nov 2021 | 00:49:00 | |
This week, I catch up with rural mum Cindy Walsh. Just weeks before her son Thomas was born, she was told he had just a 2% chance of survival. After countless tests and thousands of kilometres of travel from their farm, at four months of age, he was finally diagnosed with an extremely rare disease called Hypophosphatasia (HPP), otherwise known as 'soft bones'. But thanks to a miracle treatment, Cindy's little boy not only survived, but has thrived. This is her story. SPONSOR: Possums & Co., founded by Dr Pamela Douglas has been awarded funding through the Australian Government’s Perinatal Mental Health and Wellbeing Program. This grant aims to protect the mental health and emotional well-being of new parents in regional, rural and remote Australia. NDC Rural is offering 300 scholarships to health professionals wishing to complete the Neuroprotective Developmental Care (NDC or ‘the Possums Programs’) Accreditation Pathway. These scholarships are available to GPs and other health professionals in their local networks and focus on developing skills to support in areas such as breastfeeding, sleep, cry-fuss problems and maternal mental health. For more information or to submit your interest for a scholarship, please visit www.possumsonline.com/ndcrural | |||
| Episode 106: Bess O'Connor | 21 Nov 2021 | 00:48:20 | |
This week, I catch up with rural mum Bess O’Connor. Within weeks of meeting a handsome farmer, she’d moved in with him and they began talking babies! But their ideal life on the land didn’t quite go as planned. After numerous miscarriages Bess was finally pregnant with their son. But at 26 weeks, she went into labor in a small country town, unable to deal with a baby born so prematurely. Bess and her son defied all odds and lived to tell the tail. This is her story. SPONSOR: Possums & Co. are leaders in evidence-based support of breastfeeding, baby sleep, cry-fuss problems and parent mood globally, and offer a genuine paradigm shift - flipping much of the popular advice parents receive upside down. Founded by Medical Director and author Dr Pamela Douglas, Possums & Co. has secured funding through the Australian Government’s Perinatal Mental Health and Wellbeing Program, which will enable them to upskill 300 rural and remote GPs and other health professionals via a scholarship program known as NDC Rural. Rural health professionals and mums interested in being part of this program can visit www.possumsonline.com/ndcrural | |||
| Episode 105: Natasha Yarrington | 14 Nov 2021 | 00:41:42 | |
This week, I catch up with rural mum of four and dairy farmer, Natasha Yarrington. From homebirths to homeschooling, Natasha has taken many matters into her own hands when it comes to motherhood! Her commitment to her local community recently won her the NSW Women in Dairy 'Moover and Shaker' Award. Natasha spent countless hours helping neighbours during devastating bushfires that destroyed local homes. She'd milk her cows in the morning, then head straight out to help as many people as she could. This is her story. SPONSOR: Looking for the perfect gift? Wattle I Gift curates beautiful gift boxes filled with quality products sourced exclusively from makers, creators and growers in rural and regional Australia. You can choose from a selection of gift boxes – from the pamper hamper to the picnic pack - or create your own online at: www.wattleigift.com.au (It’s free shipping!). SPONSORL We often hear that getting your will done is ‘on your list’. Well it’s time. Let’s check that box and get it done. It’s not that hard. G.Law is here to guide you. Lead by lawyer and self-confessed wills nerd, Nicky Grummitt, the G.Law are helping #radbossladies get their wills done for peace of mind. So, now is the time to tick this off your list. Because legends leave legacies – it’s time you thought about yours. www.glaw.com.au | |||
| Episode 104: Annabelle Cleeland | 07 Nov 2021 | 00:53:04 | |
This week, I catch up with rural mum Annabelle Cleeland. Annabelle has been an agricultural journalist for over a decade. She's used to telling stories, but not her own, and not like this. In this powerful episode, Annabelle shares her deeply personal experience with birth trauma at a regional hospital. She says she was examined without consent and had an unnecessary c-section due to a lack of resources. What she went through is horrifying, and she's made it her mission to speak up to raise more awareness for rural mums everywhere. This is her story. Birth Trauma Resources
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| Episode 103: Pip Bryant-Hill | 31 Oct 2021 | 00:39:58 | |
This week, I catch up with rural mum Pip Bryant-Hill. Pip has three children and lives on a Cherry orchard on her family's property in New South Wales. Pip was born deaf due to a genetic condition that runs in her family. And being in a rural community has had its challenges, particularly when it comes to motherhood. Pip's daughter Matilda was also born deaf, and although that didn't come as a huge surprise to Pip, it was still one hell of a mission to ensure her daughter got the support she desperately needed. This is her story. MOTHERLAND VILLAGE: Motherland Village is Australia's first online rural mothers group program, connecting mums to their own, small personalised tribe. The first groups are launching today- with mums from across Australia coming together for the six week program. If you're interested in joining your own online rural mums group, please sign up to join the waitlist. I'll be launching more early next year- so make sure you're the first to know when doors open! Go to motherlandaustralia.com.au | |||
| 220: How a burst appendix nearly cost Ella Palmer her fertility | 12 May 2024 | 01:00:36 | |
Ella Palmer is a nurse, and a mum of three who lives on a cropping and sheep farm in South Australia. Her motherhood journey has been heavily impacted by what happened to her when she was just 10 years old. After weeks of ongoing sickness and a misdiagnosis, Ella was in the fight of her life after her dad checked on her in the middle of the night to find her nearly unconscious. Unbeknownst to everyone, her appendix had ruptured three days earlier. Little Ella was in the fight of her life, with a widespread infection that resulted in her losing a fallopian tube, and left scarring all over her reproductive organs. Ella's story has a very happy ending, but it's been really tough. She's experienced miracle pregnancies, hours of travel for IVF, as well as PTSD from her job, and postnatal depression. This is her story. | |||
| Episode 102: Anna Nunn | 24 Oct 2021 | 00:52:37 | |
This week, I catch up with rural mum and author of @cowboyroyadventures Anna Nunn who's returned to share part two of her story. When we met way back on Episode 22, life was very different. Since then, Anna has been in the fight of her life. She was diagnosed with cancer at 34 weeks pregnant with her second child, and had major surgery just 10 days after giving birth to her baby girl. And it all started with an earache. This is her story. SPONSOR: The daily juggle. Lists running through your mind. Kids, spouse, business, friends, community, your garden – all the ‘to dos’ constantly stacking up. We often hear that getting your will done is ‘on your list’. Well it’s time. Let’s check that box and get it done. It’s not that hard. We are here to guide you. Lead by lawyer and self-confessed wills nerd, Nicky Grummitt, the G.Law are helping #radbossladies get their wills done for peace of mind. So, now is the time to tick this off your list. Because legends leave legacies – it’s time you thought about yours. www.glaw.com.au | |||
| Episode 101: Karen O'Brien | 17 Oct 2021 | 00:47:43 | |
This week, I catch up with rural mum Karen O'Brien who spent 15 years on stations in the Kimberley. From one million acres to just five, Karen, her husband and their four kids eventually packed it all up for life in a quaint rural town on the other side of the country. Somewhere they'd never lived before, with no family ties. Why? Due to one big and very personal decision regarding how they wanted to raise their kids. This is her story. SPONSOR: Getting your will done. It’s one task that’s often put in the ‘too hard basket’. Succession planning. Deciding who takes control of your business baby. Picking guardians for your children. It’s hard. But you don’t need to do this alone. Lead by lawyer and self-confessed wills nerd, Nicky Grummitt, the G.Law team are helping #radbossladies get their wills done for peace of mind. Now is the time to get it done. Visit www.glaw.com.au for details. SPONSOR: Balanced Inner Body is run by remedial massage therapist and raindrop technique practitioner Amie Lange. Amie provides a range of natural health therapies across rural Queensland. She regularly visits towns including Westmar, Thallon, Talwood, Meandarra and Teelba. You can book a range of relaxing aromatherapy and remedial massages with Amie... she'll also soon be offering pregnancy and hot stone services too! To learn more and book a session, find Amie on Instagram or Facebook under Balanced Inner Body, or call her on 0409 795 716. | |||
| Episode 100: Kate Everett | 10 Oct 2021 | 01:01:14 | |
THE 100TH EPISODE: An interview every rural mum needs to hear.In 2018 Kate Everett's beautiful daughter Amy, affectionately known as Dolly, made headlines for all the wrong reasons. After being relentlessly bullied at boarding school and online, Dolly took her own life. She was just 14 years old. There aren't many people in Australia who didn't hear or read about Dolly's death. But what about her mum? What about the woman who loved her, raised her and mourned her? In this 1 hour special episode, Dolly's Mum Kate shares her story. You'll hear about her station life in the Northern Territory, her journey into motherhood raising her two girls, and the inconceivable grief of losing Dolly to suicide.This is her story. To support Dolly's Dream or for more information on support services for adults and children, please go to dollysdream.org.au If you or anyone needs help you can also call Lifeline on13 11 14. They offer 24/7 crisis support. | |||