Step parenting can be one of the most rewarding yet challenging roles in a blended family. In this episode of The Inadequate Mother Podcast, I sit down with Lisa Quait, an experienced life coach and stepmum, to talk about the realities of step parenting, setting healthy boundaries, and building strong relationships with stepchildren.

0:00:00 Hayley Brown introduces the topic and Lisa Quait

In this episode of The Inadequate Mother, Hayley dives into the topic of parenting labels and the mixed emotions they can bring. Whether you identify as a single mum, solo parent, or co-parent, the terminology we use often sparks debate, and Hayley explores why.

Drawing on her 11 years as a single mum, Hayley shares her experiences of navigating life with that label and why she's questioning it now that she’s in a supportive relationship. This episode looks at:

• ​What these labels mean: Why terms like "single mum" can be a source of tension and how they’re shaped by individual circumstances.
• ​Generational shifts: How definitions and expectations of parenting roles have evolved—and why it’s okay if they mean different things to different people.
• ​The unseen load: Inspired by Paloma Faith’s reflections, Hayley discusses the mental and emotional weight that often falls on mums, even in co-parenting arrangements.
• ​A new chapter: Hayley opens up about adjusting to life with a partner who’s fully invested in her and her family—and how it’s changed her perspective.

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This episode isn’t about choosing the “right” term—it’s about understanding your own journey and giving yourself the space to embrace it.

Join the Conversation:How do you define your parenting role? Hayley would love to hear your thoughts—connect with her on Instagram to share your story.

💬 Tune in, join the conversation, and own your parenting story—whatever it looks like.

Connect with Hayley:

Instagram: ⁠@hayleybrown_andco⁠

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheInadequatemothers

This podcast is produced by ⁠Bloody Vegans Productions

In this powerful episode of The Inadequate Mother, host Hayley welcomes Javeno McLean, founder of the multi award-winning J7 Community Health Centre in Manchester. Renowned for his work with individuals facing disabilities, life-altering illnesses such as cancer and Parkinson’s, and the elderly, Javeno has redefined inclusivity in fitness and community health.

Javeno shares his perspective on gratitude and how it fuels his energy and dedication to others. From helping individuals with dementia reconnect with cherished memories to empowering young people with disabilities to break through their limits, he reveals the moments and philosophies that have shaped his extraordinary journey.

The conversation also delves into the challenges Javeno faces balancing his emotionally demanding work with family life, the lessons he’s learned from his clients, and how he’s used his platform to inspire millions around the world.

This episode offers a profound exploration of humanity, connection, and the power of seeing beyond limitations. Javeno’s work, his humour, and his unwavering belief in human potential make this an episode that will leave listeners inspired and uplifted.

Follow Javeno McLean on Instagram @j7healthjaveno and Hayley on Instagram @hayleybrown_andco.

Learn more about Javeno’s work at the J7 Health Centre.

This Podcast is produced by Bloody Vegans Productions

In this episode of The Inadequate Mother, Hayley is joined by confidence coach Claire Elizabeth to unpack the complex and often misunderstood concept of codependency. Together, they explore how codependent tendencies can stem from childhood experiences, impact romantic relationships, friendships, and most importantly, shape parenting styles.

From personal stories of being raised in households affected by addiction to the emotional challenges of motherhood, Hayley and Claire discuss:

Key Takeaways:

Recommended Resources:

Connect with Claire Elizabeth:

Connect with Hayley:

Join Hayley and Claire for an open, heartfelt discussion filled with personal revelations and insights into navigating codependency in relationships and parenting. If you’ve ever felt the weight of over-giving or struggled to set boundaries, this episode is for you.

This podcast is produced by Bloody Vegans Productions

In this episode, Hayley reflects on the loss of her mother to alcoholism and how it shaped her life. From the early signs of addiction to the challenges of grief and healing, Hayley shares her honest perspective 13 years later.

This episode is for anyone navigating the impact of addiction in their family or relationships. Hayley talks about guilt, forgiveness, and the importance of focusing on your own well-being while supporting others. It’s a candid and relatable conversation for those who’ve been affected by addiction and are looking for connection and hope.

Links Mentioned:

Listen now and share with someone who might need it. It’s time to talk about the things that matter.

This podcast is produced by ⁠Bloody Vegans Productions⁠

In this first episode, I’m sharing why I started The Inadequate Mother. The name isn’t about feeling like I’m not enough – it’s about challenging society’s impossible standards on mothers. This podcast is in honour of my mom, who struggled with feeling inadequate and lost her life to alcohol addiction.

I want this to be a space where we unpack those feelings of not measuring up and find comfort, growth, and maybe even a little laughter. It’s for anyone who feels like they’re getting it wrong – parents, caregivers, or anyone just trying their best. We’ll talk about parenting, self-discovery, and building confidence in who we are by understanding the world around us – not who we think we should be.

I’m also on a journey to make this podcast more accessible, including to the sign language community. So, let’s explore this together.

Connect with Hayley: @HayleyBrownAndCo on Instagram

Listen now and share with someone who might need it. It’s time to talk about the things that matter.

Welcome to The Inadequate Mother, a podcast dedicated to tearing down the walls of mum guilt, perfectionism, and the endless feeling of not being enough.

Join the conversation as we challenge societal expectations, embrace honesty, and create a space for confidence, connection, and community. This isn’t about being the perfect parent—it’s about being real, giving yourself grace, and finding solidarity in the shared experience of raising humans in a world full of judgment.

Subscribe now and be part of a movement that celebrates the perfectly imperfect. Together, let’s redefine what it means to be a parent.

👉 Follow on Instagram: @hayleybrown_andco

This podcast is produced by ⁠Bloody Vegans Productions⁠