Four years into self-employment, almost two years of this podcast... and instead of feeling settled, I’ve been sitting with a lot of mixed emotions.

In this birthday reflection episode, I talk honestly about the thought many of us carry: “I should be further ahead by now.” I reflect on academic conditioning, linear timelines, grief around identity shifts, motherhood and building a business in “hard mode,” and the pressure to measure ourselves by standards that were never designed for our lives.

This episode is a somewhat rambling, vulnerable pause before we move into upcoming conversations about non-linear and so-called “alternative” career paths out of academia. It’s about redefining success, following curiosity instead of hustle, and learning to sit with uncertainty without immediately trying to fix it.

If you’re feeling behind, conflicted, or pulled between wanting more and honouring where you are, I’m right there with you, and I hope you feel less alone after listening to this birthday reflection.

Let's hang out! 🎙️ Follow Moms, Mats, and Manuscripts for more conversations on academia, motherhood, and mindful living. And if this episode sparked something in you, don't forget to like and share the podcast so that more people can join our coffee-fueled chats!

I'd also love to hear your thoughts and questions, and if you have ideas for future episodes, drop me a line.

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