Rewriting My Parenting Playbook

Episode 12

Parenting has been one of the most humbling journeys of my life. In this episode, I open up about my own parenting story; the mistakes, the learning curves, the growth, and the grace I’ve had to give myself along the way.

When I first became a parent, I leaned heavily on what I knew: the way I was raised. Without even realising it, I carried forward patterns that weren’t always the healthiest. It wasn’t because my parents didn’t love me, it was because they parented from what they knew, too.

Looking back now, I can see moments where I could have done things differently. I acknowledge where I was caught up in survival mode or too focused on “getting it right,” and I also honour the progress I’ve made. The beauty of reflection is that it gives us the chance to rewrite the story moving forward.

In this episode, I share openly about:

• The ways my early parenting mirrored my upbringing.

• The realisations that made me stop and ask, “Is this the parent I want to be?”

• How vulnerability has become one of my strongest tools as a mum.

• Why self-compassion and reflection are key to breaking cycles and building stronger connections with our children.

This conversation is raw and real, because I believe that honesty around parenting is powerful. None of us get it perfect… but we can always choose to grow, to adjust, and to love our kids in ways that help them feel safe, valued, and heard.

If you’re a parent who has ever felt guilty, overwhelmed, or unsure… my friend, you are not alone! We are all learning as we go, and it’s okay to rewrite your own playbook at any stage.

Support Lines & Resources

Because parenting can feel heavy at times, I want to share some support options that might be helpful if you need a listening ear or extra guidance:

Parenting Support:

• Parentline QLD (Australia): 1300 30 1300 – free confidential counselling & support for parents.

• Parent Helpline (NZ): 0800 568 856 – available 9am–9pm, 7 days a week.

Crisis Support:

• Lifeline (Australia): 13 11 14

• Lifeline (NZ): 0800 543 354 or free text 4357

• If you are in immediate danger, please call 000 (AUS) or 111 (NZ).

Thank you for listening to this episode and for holding space with me. I hope it reminds you that growth is always possible, and that parenting, like life, isn’t about perfection, but about love, learning, and showing up the best we can.