Welcome back to Small Business School! Stepping away from your business for maternity leave isn’t something that just happens, it has to be built with intention. In this episode, I’m sharing exactly how I’d plan for maternity leave as a business owner. From the financial foundation to the emotional reality, so you can take time off feeling prepared, confident, and supported.

Key topics covered:

• How to plan your pay while you’re off, from saving ahead to building a business that pays you even when you’re not in it.
• Deciding if your business can run without you or if you’ll need to save for your time away.
• Why SOPs, team training, and test runs are key to stress-free leave.
• How to start letting go of control, plan your check-ins, and set expectations for your return.
• Building for maternity leave can also help you scale and create freedom in your business long after baby arrives.

Taking maternity leave as a business owner is absolutely possible, it just takes intention and preparation. Even if you’re not there yet, starting now can set you up for the kind of freedom and flexibility every business owner deserves.

Mentioned in this episode: Faire, the largest wholesale marketplace connecting over 120,000 brands and retailers. Staci shares how Faire helps shop owners source unique products, offers flexible 60-day payment terms, and gives brands global visibility without cold pitching—creating a true win-win for small business growth.

Retailers who are new to Faire can visit www.faire.com and use code SMBSCHOOL10 at checkout for 10% off their first order.

Staci's Links:
Instagram. Website.