She had a stable career and she would’ve stayed on it forever. Until life quietly asked a different question.

In this episode of Hats On!, Ilona shares a deeply human story of unexpected change, resilience, and the paths we don’t plan but end up shaping us the most.

Trained as an audiologist, Ilona built a long, successful career in a demanding field. But when an opportunity came to move overseas, everything shifted. From Australia to the Netherlands to the UK and back again, this conversation explores what happens when you step off the “expected” path—and discover something new about yourself along the way.

We talk about:

• The reality of miscarriage—and the silence around it
• Supporting someone through mental health—and the invisible weight carried by those around them
• Letting go of the idea that life has to follow a fixed plan
• Raising children to embrace individuality, not perfection

At its core, this is a conversation about adaptability. About choosing differently when life gives you the chance. And about understanding that not everything needs to go according to plan to turn out exactly as it should.

If you’ve ever questioned your path, felt stuck in a version of life that no longer fits, or wondered what else might be possible, this episode is for you.

Disclaimer: Guest's opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Hats On! or its partners. This podcast is not a substitute for professional advice.