In this episode of MOMents, host Madge Booth sits down with Ezél Vermeulen – entrepreneur, business owner, mom of two and wife of Springbok legend Duane Vermeulen.

Ezél opens up about life behind the Springbok scenes: the World Cup highs, long celebration days, the reality of solo parenting when Duane's away and the invisible mental load many mothers carry.

From homeschooling during the Rugby World Cup to launching her own business, Ezél shares how she stays grounded, protects her identity and teaches her sons humility.

With warmth and honesty, she reminds us that every mom’s victory counts – even if no one sees it.

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🎧 Available on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Amazon Music

Chapters and highlights:

00:00 – Welcome & Introduction

Meet Ezél Vermeulen and hear what it really means to be a Springbok wife and mom on a mission.

01:35 – The Rush of Rugby Glory

What it’s like to celebrate a World Cup win from behind the scenes.

02:20 – Parades vs. Private Moments

From cheering crowds to quiet family celebrations – navigating both worlds.

03:25 – The Highs & Lows of Celebration Days

Balancing joy, fatigue and kids during Rugby World Cup celebrations.

04:15 – Craving Routine After the Chaos

Returning to structure after months of intensity.

05:05 – Teaching Humility at Home

Raising boys who know their worth – without the ego.

06:45 – The Invisible Work of Moms

Why unseen effort still deserves a standing ovation.

07:50 – Staying True to Yourself

How Ezél keeps her ambition alive while supporting Duane.

09:05 – Personal Wins Outside Rugby

From business growth to raising emotionally strong kids.

09:35 – Self-Care Walks & Mental Clarity

Her daily ritual to reset, reflect and recharge.

10:20 – Homeschooling on the Go

Organising family life while constantly on the move.

12:30 – Finding Help & Building a Village

Letting go of perfection and asking for support.

15:00 – Love at a Distance

How FaceTime and connection rituals keep the family close.

16:40 – Solo Parenting Real Talk

Navigating discipline and support while Duane is away.

17:45 – Words for the Overwhelmed Mom

Take it one day at a time and ditch the guilt.

18:30 – Rapid-Fire Mom Reflections

Patience, purpose, gratitude and the legacy she hopes to leave.

23:01 – Closing Thoughts

Final reflections on identity, motherhood, and redefining “success.”

In this empowering episode of the MOMents Podcast, host Madge Booth sits down with Sally Emery, a veteran magazine editor and inspiring leader, to explore authentic leadership – especially within female-led teams.

They unpack:

✨ Why empathy is a leadership superpower

✨ How motherhood shapes your leadership style

✨ How to empower others without losing yourself

✨ The role of feedback, inclusion, and resilience in leading well

✨ Why listening to Gen Z and your team’s lived stories matters more than ever

Whether you're managing a team, building a business, or just trying to lead your household with intention, this episode will leave you inspired, equipped, and less alone.

Don’t forget to follow, like, and share with a fellow working mom or leader!

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Timestamps:

00:00 – Breaking the Mold: Stereotypes About Female Leaders

01:16 – Sally’s Journey into the Magazine World

02:03 – Why Magazines (and Now Podcasts) Matter to Women

03:02 – What It’s Really Like Leading Female Teams

05:21 – How Great Leaders Empower Without Diminishing

09:37 – Creating Safe, Loyal and Supportive Work Cultures

14:14 – The Art of Tough Conversations and Honest Feedback

17:41 – Choosing People Over Process

21:27 – Approachable Leadership and Bottom-Up Wisdom

24:22 – Motherhood as a Leadership Masterclass

26:37 – Resilience and Keeping Perspective in the Chaos

29:23 – Advice for Overwhelmed Leaders and Managers

31:19 – Mentorship, Gen Z, and Always Staying Curious

33:39 – Rapid Fire: Reflections on Motherhood & Legacy

42:08 – Final Thoughts and Episode Wrap-Up

42:58 – Bonus Clips: Real Parenting Advice from Our Community

Why has "mommy wine time" become so normal and is it helping or harming moms?

In this powerful episode, host Madge Booth speaks with Elsa Van Der Watt, a clinical social worker and mental health board chair, about the rising influence of mommy wine culture.

Together, they unpack the fine line between enjoying a glass of wine and using alcohol to cope with stress, anxiety, burnout, and the mental load of motherhood.

You’ll learn:

How alcohol affects your mental health, parenting, and family life

The red flags that your glass of wine might be more than “just to take the edge off”

What substance use disorder actually looks like in moms

How to start the conversation if you’re worried about yourself—or a friend

Where to get affordable support and free recovery resources

Madge also shares her personal story of quitting alcohol after a health scare and how it changed her life.

This is a must-watch for any mom feeling overwhelmed, curious, or concerned about the role of alcohol in her life.

It’s not about judgment – it’s about real talk, awareness, and support.

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Timestamps / Chapters:

00:00:00 – Introduction to Mommy Wine Culture

00:01:10 – Defining Mommy Wine Culture & Stages of Use

00:03:11 – Emotional Reliance and Family Impact

00:05:28 – Challenges of Addressing Concerns

00:07:44 – Understanding Substance Use Disorders

00:10:03 – Recognising Numbing vs. Relaxing

00:12:48 – Impact on Children and Family Dynamics

00:14:13 – Personal Story: Quitting Alcohol

00:16:34 – Strength vs. Smart Choices

00:19:30 – Checklist for Red Flags & Recovery Timeline

00:22:32 – Social Drinking vs. Problematic Use

00:24:05 – Over-the-Counter Medication & Co-Occurring Issues

00:27:36 – Affordable Recovery Resources

00:30:35 – Stigma and Who Attends Support Groups

00:34:43 – Changing the Conversation for Future Generations

00:38:32 – Message to Moms & Finding Support

00:41:15 – COVID-19 and Increased Substance Use

00:42:23 – Final Five: Elsa’s Parenting Reflections

00:47:32 – Episode Wrap-Up

Is sex after kids even possible when you're exhausted, touched - out and overwhelmed?

In this episode of MOMents, host Madge Booth sits down with the renowned Dr. Marlene Wasserman (aka Dr. Eve) – clinical sexologist, trauma therapist and founder of the Dr. Eve brand – to explore what really happens to intimacy after motherhood.

From body image and burnout to desire discrepancies, this honest and compassionate conversation gives working moms the permission to talk about what no one else is saying out loud.

Dr. Eve offers real advice on how to rebuild connection, communicate your needs and reignite the spark – even when you’re knee-deep in parenting chaos.

You'll hear about:

How hormones and stress hijack your libido

Why self-care is essential (not selfish)

Tips for overcoming resentment and guilt

How to create small moments of joy and intimacy

Teaching your kids about boundaries, consent, and healthy relationships

Whether you're in a long-term relationship, co-parenting or just trying to feel like yourself again – this episode is for you.

Follow for more honest conversations that support working moms.

Drop a comment if this resonates – you're not alone.

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Timestamps for Easy Navigation:

00:00 – Welcome & Why We're Talking About Sex After Kids

01:20 – Meet Dr. Eve: Sexologist, Therapist & Mom

08:12 – What Holds Women Back Sexually After Motherhood

12:50 – Relationship Dynamics & Emotional Load

13:27 – The Power of Language in Sexual Expression

15:03 – How Parenting Changes Intimacy

21:22 – Exhaustion vs. Desire: The Struggle is Real

23:23 – Why Relaxation Matters for Libido

23:53 – Parenting with Multiple Kids = Low Desire?

25:21 – Adrenaline, Stress & Their Effects on Sex

25:58 – Finding Mini Moments of Calm for Connection

27:08 – Talking Guilt, Resentment & Sex

29:54 – Negotiating Sexual Preferences as a Couple

32:57 – Is It Just Fatigue or Is It Burnout?

38:29 – Confidence & Body Image After Birth

38:51 – How Social Media Warps Self-Image

41:05 – Fear of Pregnancy & Sexual Avoidance

43:35 – What's “Normal” Frequency Anyway?

45:00 – Desire for Connection Trumps Performance

46:43 – How to Rebuild Intimacy as a Team

47:17 – Why Women Have Sex: Unpacking Motivations

48:19 – Boundaries, Expectations & Communication

49:02 – Rekindling Intimacy Step-by-Step

53:13 – Talking to Kids About Sex & Consent

56:34 – Parenting in the Age of Social Media

58:30 – Looking Back: Parenting Regrets & Wins

01:01:23 – What Kids Really Need: Safety, Kindness, Connection

01:02:09 – Dr. Eve’s North Star for Parenting Decisions

In this episode, host Madge sits down with Daniëlla van Heerden to explore the real challenges and rewards working moms face when balancing career changes with family life.

Daniëlla shares her journey from journalism to corporate communications, offering honest insights into the sacrifices, compromises, and emotional “firsts and lasts” that come with motherhood and professional growth.

Whether you’re considering a career shift or simply juggling the daily demands of work and parenting, this conversation is packed with heartfelt advice on how to align your professional dreams with your family’s needs. Daniëlla’s story is a reminder that with planning, patience, and support, working moms can find a fulfilling balance.

Follow for more empowering stories for working moms!

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Timestamps:

00:00 – Parenting “Firsts and Lasts”: The Emotional Journey

01:31 – Daniëlla’s Shift: From Journalism to Corporate Communications

03:42 – Challenges of News Anchoring as a Mom

07:02 – Balancing Late Nights, Nannies & Family Support

09:42 – Realising the Need for a Career Change

10:18 – Planning for Remote Work & Family Flexibility

11:43 – Transitioning with Confidence & Patience

13:18 – Finding Identity Beyond the Job Title

14:55 – Advice for Moms Considering Career Transitions

17:45 – Navigating Career Sacrifices & Family Dynamics

19:25 – Cultivating a Positive Mindset in Motherhood

20:20 – The Power of Supportive Partnerships

24:01 – Madge’s Journey: Magazines to Marketing

25:16 – Timing Life Changes with Family Needs

27:40 – Daniëlla’s Podcast: “A Mom and a Microphone”

28:54 – Overcoming Isolation During Lockdown

30:44 – Storytelling & Mother Tongue Connection

32:30 – What Daniëlla Would Tell Her Younger Self

33:26 – How Motherhood Changed Her Priorities

34:54 – Gratitude for a Loving Partner

38:39 – Future Parenting Talks with Her Daughters

39:55 – Balancing Firmness & Kindness in Parenting

40:39 – Discipline with Compassion

41:09 – Enjoying the Role Reversal: Being Interviewed

41:35 – Importance of Honest Mom Conversations

41:38 – Trusting Life’s Unexpected Paths

42:10 – Thoughts on Baby Sleep Expectations

42:18 – Nostalgia for the Tough Parenting Moments

In this inspiring episode, host Madge chats with registered counselor and Enneagram practitioner Celesté Meyburgh about the powerful transformation motherhood brings – especially for women in their 40s.

They dive into the Enneagram personality system, uncovering how understanding your type can unlock strengths, boost self-awareness, improve relationships and fuel personal growth.

Is motherhood the key to finding your true potential? Celesté shares heartfelt insights on embracing your authentic self, practicing self-acceptance, and being fully present in the journey.

Follow for more episodes empowering working moms!

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🎧 Amazon Podcasts: https://t.ly/EyiBZ

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 — The Transformative Journey of Motherhood & Finding Yourself

01:20 — Meet Celesté Meyburgh: Counselor & Enneagram Expert

02:31 — What Is the Enneagram? Unlocking Personality Patterns

02:59 — Enneagram Type 1: The Perfectionist — Integrity & Improvement

03:40 — Enneagram Type 2: The Helper — Compassion & Connection

04:13 — Enneagram Type 3: The Achiever — Goal-Driven & Inspiring

04:21 — Enneagram Type 4: The Individualist — Creative & Empathetic

05:11 — Enneagram Type 5: The Observer — Analytical & Knowledge-Seeking

05:13 — Enneagram Type 6: The Loyalist — Practical & Prepared

05:59 — Enneagram Type 7: The Enthusiast — Adventurous & Joyful

06:38 — Enneagram Type 8: The Challenger — Strong & Protective

07:06 — Enneagram Type 9: The Peacemaker — Harmonious & Calm

07:27 — Self-Awareness & Growth Through Understanding Your Type

08:22 — Using the Enneagram to Boost Motivation & Change

08:31 — The Enneagram as a Dynamic Tool, Not a Label

09:58 — Borrowing Strengths from Adjacent Types

12:04 — Work-Life Flow vs. Balance: A New Perspective

12:33 — The Power of Being Present & Listening to Your Needs

13:59 — Empowerment for Women in Their 40s

16:02 — How Motherhood Unlocks Your True Potential

Vanessa Raphaely opens up about the societal expectations on women and the invisible labor that often goes unnoticed. Despite some progress, many working mothers still face significant challenges. Vanessa’s insights on resilience and community support are a must-hear for anyone balancing these dual roles. 

She also sheds light on how current economic conditions in South Africa impact corporate support for working parents. With stagnation and historical traumas affecting risk-taking in businesses, many entrepreneurs struggle to implement beneficial changes. It’s a crucial conversation on the intersection of economics and workplace policies.

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TIMESTAMPS:

Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00)

Madge introduces the podcast and discusses the outdated corporate rules affecting working parents.

Vanessa’s Background (00:01:28)

Introduction of Vanessa Raffaele, her accomplishments, and her initiative “The Village” for mothers.

The Paradox of Modern Motherhood (00:02:11)

Vanessa shares her experiences balancing work and parenting as a working mother for 25 years.

Historical Context of Women’s Work (00:03:12)

Discussion on past expectations for women in the workforce and the ongoing challenges they face.

Challenges in Corporate Adaptation (00:04:59)

Vanessa explains why companies struggle to adapt to modern work-life balance needs.

The Hustle Mentality (00:07:02)

Observations on how mothers are finding ways to balance work and family without giving up.

The Shift Towards Entrepreneurship (00:06:45)

Vanessa discusses the rise of entrepreneurship as a response to corporate challenges.

The Importance of Resilience (00:09:51)

Vanessa reflects on the South African spirit of resilience and the value of perseverance.

The Impact of Age on Employment (00:11:04)

Discussion on how women in their 50s and 60s are overlooked in the corporate world.

Adapting to Corporate Norms (00:12:17)

Vanessa shares insights on how to navigate corporate challenges as women age.

Building Community for Change (00:20:29)

Vanessa emphasizes the power of forming collectives to advocate for change in the workplace.

Supporting Women in Management (00:22:37)

Advice on how women in management can assist and uplift other women in the workplace.

Final Thoughts on Kindness (00:24:23)

Vanessa discusses the importance of kindness and community in achieving success.

Final Five Questions (00:24:40)

Madge introduces the final five questions segment with Vanessa.

Siblings’ Relationships (00:28:30)

Vanessa shares her hopes for her children to support and forgive each other throughout their lives.

Nurturing Individual Connections (00:29:21)

Vanessa emphasizes the importance of spending unique time with each child to strengthen individual relationships.

Personal Reflection in Parenting (00:30:51)

Vanessa discusses using self-reflection as a guiding principle for making parenting decisions and avoiding regrets.

Final Thoughts on Balancing Roles (00:32:13)

Madge concludes with a message about redefining success as both a mother and a professional.

In this episode of “Moment,” host Madge and guest Vicki Sleet delve into the impact of social media on parenting. They discuss the pressures and feelings of inadequacy parents face due to curated online content. Vicki shares her personal experiences, emphasising the importance of authenticity and vulnerability. They highlight the need for parents to model healthy social media habits for their children and to find balance amidst digital pressures. The conversation underscores the significance of being present, expressing gratitude and fostering open communication with children to navigate the challenges of modern parenting.

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TIME STAMPS:
Social Media’s Influence on Parenting (00:03:05)
Vicki discusses how social media creates both shared experiences and unrealistic expectations for parents.

Triggers from Social Media (00:03:48)
Vicki explains how social media can trigger feelings of inadequacy in parents.

Perspective on Parenting (00:04:42)
Vicki shares insights from parenting in both pre-social media and current times.

Comparison Trap (00:06:11)
Madge and Vicki talk about how social media fosters comparison among parents.

The Cycle of Comparison (00:06:34)
Vicki reflects on her past feelings of inadequacy and how social media exacerbates them.

Authenticity vs. Perfectionism (00:08:10)
Vicki emphasizes the need for authenticity in social media representations of parenting.

Influence of Brands (00:09:00)
Vicki discusses the role of brands and influencers in shaping unrealistic expectations.

Navigating Social Media with Kids (00:10:05)
Madge and Vicki talk about educating children on the realities of social media.

Other Pressures on Parents (00:10:47)
Vicki shares her thoughts on nutritional comparisons and judgment among parents.

Comparing Generations (00:12:33)
Vicki compares the pressures faced by today’s parents versus those of previous generations.

Helicopter Parenting (00:13:57)
Madge and Vicki discuss the challenges of balancing involvement and independence for children.

Finding Balance in Parenting (00:14:40)
Vicki stresses the importance of authenticity and sharing struggles in parenting.

Vulnerability in Parenting (00:16:03)
Madge and Vicki discuss the magic of vulnerability and the importance of being real.

Practical Steps for Social Media Boundaries (00:18:40)
Vicki shares tips on setting healthy boundaries and modeling behavior for children.

Teaching Kids About Reality (00:20:16)
Vicki emphasizes the importance of helping children differentiate between real and curated content.

Defining Success in Parenting (00:22:46)
Madge reflects on what truly defines success as a mother beyond social media comparisons.

Being Present (00:23:04)
Discusses the importance of being present with children to reduce anxiety and enhance connection.

Engaging in Play (00:23:32)
Highlights the value of actively participating in children’s activities for bonding and connection.

Final Five Questions Introduction (00:24:27)
Introduces the segment where the host asks personal questions to the guest.

Changing Relationships (00:24:56)
Explores how motherhood has softened Vicki’s relationship with her own mother.

Reflecting on Parenthood (00:25:43)
Vicki shares her desire to be more present during her child’s early years.

Navigating Mental Health (00:26:34)
Madge reflects on the unexpected challenges of parenting during COVID lockdowns.

Teaching Grace (00:27:01)
Discusses the importance of giving grace to oneself and others in parenting.

Gratitude in Motherhood (00:27:28)
Vicki expresses her overwhelming love for her children and the transformative experience of motherhood.

Love and Anxiety (00:28:37)
Shares the intense love and postnatal anxiety experienced after childbirth.

Normalizing Apologies (00:31:27)
Discusses the importance of apologizing to children and acknowledging mistakes.

Parenting Decisions (00:31:53)
Vicki reflects on balancing short-term desires with long-term parenting values.

Finding Balance (00:33:11)
Emphasizes the importance of balance in parenting decisions and collaboration with partners.

Closing Thoughts (00:34:01)
Encourages parents to embrace authenticity and not feel inadequate compared to social media portrayals.

In this podcast episode, the host discusses the pervasive “hustle culture” with Elmarie Dercksen, a pastor, author, and musician, who is also a mother of three. They explore societal pressures that glorify constant busyness, particularly among mothers and its impact on mental health and relationships. Elmarie shares personal insights on the importance of slowing down, embracing imperfections and finding moments of peace. They emphasize the need for deeper, supportive conversations among parents and the value of teaching children to appreciate quiet moments. The episode encourages listeners to prioritize rest and genuine connections over relentless productivity.

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TIME STAMPS:

The Need to Prove Worth (00:03:13)
Exploration of why moms feel pressured to stay busy and prove their value.

Impact of Hustle Culture (00:05:07)
Examining the costs of constant busyness on relationships and personal well-being.

Accepting Help and Overcoming Perfectionism (00:08:25)
The struggle to accept assistance due to perfectionist tendencies in parenting.

Choosing Harmony Over Perfection (00:09:37)
The importance of prioritizing family harmony rather than striving for perfection.

Reimagining Rest in Daily Life (00:11:22)
Discussion on finding pockets of rest and the significance of silence.

The Importance of Presence (00:19:31)
Connecting mindfulness and presence to improve professional and personal life quality.

Seasonal Reflection and Rest (00:23:18)
Using seasonal changes as a metaphor for reflection and the necessity of rest.

Teaching Kids to Embrace Boredom (00:24:22)
The need to educate children on the value of quiet and boredom in a stimulating world.

Changing the Conversation About Busyness (00:25:18)
Strategies for altering how we discuss our busyness to foster deeper connections.

Breathing and Mindfulness (00:26:36)
Elmarie discusses the importance of taking a moment to breathe and find calm amidst busyness.

Changing the Conversation (00:29:00)
MADGE and Elmarie propose a pact to shift discussions from busyness to meaningful connections and emotional support.

Compassion and Understanding (00:29:57)
Elmarie emphasizes the need for self-compassion and the understanding that others share similar struggles.

The Final Five Questions (00:31:09)
MADGE introduces a segment of five questions to explore Elmarie‘s motherhood journey.

Support and Expectations in Parenting (00:32:32)
Elmarie highlights the importance of discussing support expectations early in relationships to avoid misunderstandings.

Choice in Parenthood (00:34:33)
Elmarie stresses that parenthood is a choice and encourages children to make their own decisions about family.

Consistency in Parenting (00:36:04)
Elmarie reflects on the significance of consistency and joy in parenting to foster strong connections with children.

In this episode, host Madge converses with dyslexia and learner support specialist Yolanda Goni about the emotional journey parents, especially mothers, face when discovering their children need additional support. They discuss the feelings of fear, guilt, and self-blame that often arise, and the hope that understanding and intervention can bring. Yolanda emphasizes the importance of early intervention, a positive approach, and self-care for parents. She shares her personal experiences, advocating for open communication and a supportive environment. The episode offers practical advice and encouragement, highlighting that parents are not alone and that there is hope and joy in the journey.SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE EPISODES!

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APPLE

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SPOTIFY

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TIMESTAMPS:

Introduction to the Emotional Journey (00:00:00)
Discussion on the emotional challenges mothers face when learning their child needs extra support.

Defining Learner Support (00:01:24)
Yolanda explains what learner support means and its importance for children’s potential.

The Impact of Diagnosis (00:03:52)
Madge reflects on how a diagnosis can provide freedom and clarity for parents.
Yolanda emphasizes that understanding a child’s challenges is crucial for effective support.

Changing Perspectives on Stigma (00:05:55)
Discussion on how societal perspectives on children’s support needs can evolve over time.

Parental Guilt and Blame (00:07:51)
Yolanda discusses why parents often feel guilty or blame themselves for their child’s challenges.

Navigating Denial (00:09:25)
Yolanda talks about how to handle parents who are in denial about their child’s diagnosis.

The Need for a Positive Approach (00:10:01)
Emphasis on focusing on children’s strengths alongside their challenges during assessments.

Delaying Diagnosis (00:11:51)
Discussion on societal tendencies to delay diagnosis due to misconceptions about children’s behavior.

Fear of Labels (00:14:22)
Yolanda explains parental fears regarding labels and the importance of understanding their implications.

Guidelines for Parents Post-Diagnosis (00:19:57)
Yolanda provides practical advice for parents on how to support their child after a diagnosis.

Dealing with School Cooperation Issues (00:22:04)
Madge and Yolanda discuss what parents can do if schools are uncooperative regarding support needs.

Understanding Teacher Feedback (00:22:56)
Yolanda shares her experience of feeling dismissed by teachers concerning her child’s learning difficulties.

Parental Mistakes (00:27:40)
Yolanda outlines common mistakes parents make when reacting to their child’s needs for support.

Communicating with Children (00:28:21)
The importance of processing concerns before discussing them with children to maintain a positive narrative.

Financial Barriers to Support (00:29:16)
Madge highlights the financial challenges parents face when seeking professional help for their children.

Utilizing School Resources (00:30:32)
Yolanda advises parents to communicate openly with teachers and use school-based support teams.

Effective Communication with Schools (00:32:11)
Yolanda emphasizes the need for constructive communication between parents and schools regarding concerns.

Maintaining Hope Amidst Challenges (00:33:16)
Yolanda shares her experiences with multiple diagnoses and the importance of finding the right support.

Support for Mothers (00:36:09)
Discussion on the lack of support for mothers in the school system and the need for better resources.

Finding Community Support (00:38:29)
Encouragement for mothers to seek out supportive communities and limit negative influences.

Advice for Overwhelmed Moms (00:39:50)
Yolanda advises taking small steps and recognizing small achievements to manage overwhelming feelings.

Managing Children’s Emotions (00:41:32)
The importance of maintaining parental calm during children’s emotional outbursts for effective communication.

Learning from the past (00:46:41)
The importance of self-compassion and embracing the parenting journey without perfectionism.

Creating a safe space (00:49:04)
The necessity of providing a supportive environment for children to express themselves.

Embracing the journey (00:49:52)
Understanding that extra support for a child can lead to unexpected, fulfilling paths in parenting.