The Nap Time Sessions

In this episode of The Naptime Sessions, I’m joined by the warm, honest, and wonderfully talented Claire Roads - a family and newborn photographer, mum of two, and passionate champion of real motherhood.

Claire’s work captures the heart of family life - the giggles, the chaos, the cuddles mid-tantrum, and the everyday moments that so often get overlooked. Her photography celebrates the beautifully imperfect reality of motherhood, rather than the polished version we often feel we should present to the world.

Behind the lens, Claire’s own journey through motherhood has shaped everything she creates. In our conversation, she opens up about the transition into becoming a mum, the guilt she wasn’t prepared for, and the pressure she put on herself to get everything “right.” We talk honestly about perfectionism, self-criticism, and how unsettling it can feel when life with children becomes unpredictable and out of your control.

This conversation felt deeply reassuring - a reminder that so many of the thoughts mums quietly carry are far more common than we realise. Claire also shares how motherhood shifted her identity and confidence, how she learned to soften her expectations of herself, and why embracing imperfection has become such a powerful part of both her personal life and her work.

We also explore her Kent Mum in Business feature, and why celebrating and supporting other mums building businesses alongside family life feels so important to her.

Here’s what we cover:

1. Claire’s transition into motherhood and what she remembers most vividly
2. The guilt she didn’t expect to feel - and how perfectionism showed up
3. Why motherhood can feel so unpredictable and out of our control
4. The emotional contradictions of parenting - love, exhaustion, gratitude, and guilt
5. How becoming a mum shifted Claire’s sense of identity and confidence
6. Why her photography celebrates real, unfiltered family life
7. What “real motherhood” looks like on a typical day behind the scenes
8. The challenges of juggling business and family life
9. What inspired Claire to start her Kent Mum in Business feature
10. Why supporting and celebrating other mums in business matters so deeply
11. The moments of motherhood she wishes she could freeze in time
12. One piece of advice she wishes she’d been given before becoming a mum

Claire’s story is a gentle reminder that motherhood isn’t meant to be perfect. With compassion, honesty, and a little less self-criticism, we can begin to feel more grounded in the lives we’re living – just as they are.

Want to connect with Claire or learn more about her work?

1. Visit her website
2. Follow her on Instagram

Want more support and honest conversations about motherhood? Follow me on Instagram or explore my blog for practical tips, stories, and encouragement.

If Claire’s story resonated with you, share this episode with a friend who might be navigating guilt, perfectionism, or the emotional shifts of motherhood. And if you haven’t already, hit subscribe, rate the show, or leave a review - it helps other mums find us and reminds us that we’re all learning as we go.

In this episode of The Mum Minute, we’re diving into one of the most common phrases parents say - and why it never quite has the effect we hope for.

When your child’s emotions are running high and you find yourself saying “please just calm down” through gritted teeth, it can feel like you’re speaking another language. Because, in a way, you are.

This episode explores what’s really happening in your child’s brain when they’re overwhelmed, why logic goes out the window, and how you can help them find their calm - even when you’re barely holding onto yours.

You’ll learn the simple science behind emotional regulation, a quick breathing tool you can teach your child (and use yourself), and the golden rule that changes everything: regulate before you reason.

And if this episode resonates with you, you’ll love my brand-new 3-week parent-led course, Helping Small Humans Handle Big Feelings - starting on the 17th November. It’s a live, practical and encouraging course for parents of children aged 6–11, teaching the exact tools to help your child manage big emotions and bring more calm to your whole home.

• When your child’s emotional brain (the amygdala) takes over, the thinking brain temporarily switches off - which is why “calm down” never works.
• Children need to feel calm before they can think calmly - body first, then brain, then words.
• You can model calm instead of demanding it: slow your voice, lower your body, and co-regulate.
• Try the Sniff Sniff Sigh technique - two small sniffs in, one long sigh out - to quickly reset your nervous system.
• You’re not failing. You just haven’t been shown the tools that actually work yet - until now.

Listen now for practical, science-backed strategies you can start using today and a gentle reminder that you’re doing far better than you think.

Follow along on Instagram for more tools and support

Learn more about Corrina Beasley Therapy

Find out more about Helping Small Humans Handle Big Feelings - doors open soon!

Enjoyed This Episode?

Be sure to subscribe to The Naptime Sessions, leave a review, and share it with a mum who could use a little calm and encouragement this week.

Got a favourite takeaway? Let me know over on Instagram - I’d love to hear from you!

Until next time,

Corrina x

In this episode of The Naptime Sessions, I’m joined by the insightful and compassionate Paula Hatfield – former head of one of London’s top illustration companies, now a holistic well-being practitioner, mum, and advocate for embracing change at every stage of life.

Paula’s story is one of transformation. After 16 years leading a successful creative business, she hit burnout while also navigating the emotional strain of her mum’s health crisis. That turning point led her to discover the healing power of therapies like hypnotherapy and coaching - tools that now form the heart of her work supporting others through stress, change, and midlife shifts.

In our conversation, Paula shares openly about her own evolution, what motherhood has taught her about resilience and forgiveness, and the challenges and joys of parenting a neurodiverse child. We also talk about the growing awareness around neurodiversity, and how connection – whether in a corporate setting, a retreat, or at home – is at the core of living well.

Here’s what we cover:

• Paula’s journey from running a leading London illustration company to holistic well-being practitioner
• The wake-up call of burnout and her mum’s health crisis
• Why self-discovery and compassion are central to her work
• The resilience and forgiveness motherhood demands
• Parenting a neurodiverse child – the challenges, the rewards, and the evolving support landscape
• How midlife can be a powerful time of transformation and new beginnings
• The role of therapies and coaching in managing stress and creating balance
• The importance of connection – in business, retreats, and family life
• Why it’s okay to “wing it” in parenting (because there’s no handbook!)
• How forgiveness underpins both parenting and personal growth

Paula’s story is a reminder that life doesn’t come with a straight path - but with self-forgiveness, compassion, and the courage to change direction, we can create something even more meaningful.

Resources

Want to connect with Paula or learn more about her work?

Visit her website

Follow her on Instagram

Want more support and honest conversations about motherhood? Follow me on Instagram or explore my blog for practical tips, stories, and encouragement.

Enjoyed This Episode?

If Paula’s story spoke to you, share this episode with a friend navigating change, burnout, or parenting challenges. And if you haven’t already, hit subscribe, rate the show, or leave a review – it helps other mums find us and reminds us that we’re all learning as we go.

In this episode of The Naptime Sessions, I’m joined by the inspiring and down-to-earth Deborah Borfecchia – former graphic designer turned soft tissue therapist, clinic owner, and mum.

Deborah’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and following your heart even when the path takes unexpected turns. She opens up about her journey from the creative world of design to building a thriving therapy practice, the joys and challenges of motherhood, and the emotional rollercoaster of trying to expand her family.

This conversation felt like a deep exhale – honest, grounding, and full of gentle reminders that we don’t have to do this motherhood thing alone. Deborah shares candidly about the isolation of those early parenting days, the struggle of juggling work and family, and the sacrifices that so many mums quietly make to keep everything afloat. We also talk about the importance of community, tuning into your body, and the huge difference a holistic approach can make to wellbeing.

Here’s what we cover:

• How Deborah’s passion for helping others led her from graphic design to therapy
• Why motherhood can feel overwhelming without a support system
• The loneliness of the early parenting years – and how to find connection
• The impact of fertility challenges on her journey through motherhood
• Balancing business and family life – and the stress and anxiety it can create
• The sacrifices mums make for family wellbeing (and why that’s not talked about enough)
• The role holistic health plays in emotional and physical resilience
• How opening a business in a pandemic taught Deborah adaptability and courage
• Why listening to your body is one of the most powerful tools you have
• The importance of creating a supportive community for new parents

Deborah’s story is a beautiful reminder that motherhood and career don’t come with a manual – but with honesty, community, and compassion for ourselves, we can create a life that feels both grounded and fulfilling.

Resources

Want to connect with Deborah or learn more about her work?

Visit her website

Follow her on Instagram

Want more support and honest conversations about motherhood? Follow me on Instagram or explore my blog for practical tips, stories, and encouragement.

Enjoyed This Episode?

If Deborah’s story resonated with you, share this episode with a friend who might be navigating the juggle of motherhood and career. And if you haven’t already, hit subscribe, rate the show, or leave a review – it helps other mums find us and reminds us that we’re all in this together.

In this episode of The Naptime Sessions, I’m joined by the brilliant and soulful Grainne Dunne - social media specialist, mum of two, and a woman with a truly powerful story to share.

This conversation felt like a cuppa with a new friend. We laughed, we reflected, and we held space for some very real, very raw emotions. Grainne shares her journey into motherhood and business, the deep grief of losing both her parents, and how those experiences shaped the woman – and mother – she is today. I also opened up about the loss of my Dad, and together we explored how grief can live alongside joy, and how keeping the memory of our loved ones alive can be a deeply healing part of the journey.

We also took a trip down memory lane, chatting about our time at The BRIT School and how it shaped our outlooks on life, creativity, and confidence.

Alongside the big feelings, there’s loads of wisdom in this episode – from Grainne’s practical social media advice for mums running businesses, to setting boundaries, managing expectations, and the importance of caring for yourself as much as you care for others.

Here’s what we cover:

How becoming a mum led Grainne to pivot into social media strategy

The emotional legacy of grief and how it impacts motherhood

Why celebrating our loved ones keeps their memory alive in everyday life

How confidence was shaped by upbringing, loss, and creative education

Practical tips for building visibility online

The importance of setting clear expectations for children

The difference strong boundaries make

The role of joy and connection in healing from loss

Why self-care isn’t selfish – it’s essential for showing up as your best self

Grainne’s story is a moving reminder that life is fragile – but also incredibly beautiful. Her honesty, insight, and passion for helping others shine through in every word.

Resources

Want to connect with Grainne or learn more about her work?

Follow Grainne on Instagram

Follow Grainne on LinkedIn

Visit her website

Find out more about The BRIT School

Enjoyed This Episode?

If Grainne’s story touched your heart, share this episode with a friend who might be navigating loss or balancing motherhood with business. And if you haven’t already, hit subscribe, rate the show, or leave a review – it helps others find us and reminds us that we’re never alone in this journey.

What happens when you're parenting on a battlefield that was never built for your child?

In this episode of The Naptime Sessions, I’m joined by Dr. Rosie Gilderthorp – Clinical Psychologist, founder of Know Your Mind and Psychology Business School, mum of three neurodivergent children, and someone who deeply understands the emotional and practical load carried by SEND parents.

Rosie brings both professional expertise and lived experience to this powerful conversation. We talk about the mental health challenges that come with raising neurodivergent children, the financial and emotional strain on families, and just how exhausting it can be to navigate the SEND system – especially when that system feels like it’s working against you.

She shares her insights on what helps – from building a supportive community to learning how to advocate for your child – and why it’s so important to protect your own wellbeing along the way.

This is a conversation full of validation, compassion, and practical encouragement for any parent who’s ever felt overwhelmed, isolated, or unseen.

Here’s what we cover:

• The unique mental health pressures SEND parents face
• How financial strain and lack of support add to the load
• Why navigating the SEND system often feels relentless
• The emotional toll of having to constantly advocate for your child
• Why understanding the system helps you advocate more effectively
• The power of community and peer support for reducing isolation
• The coexistence of grief and love in SEND parenting
• How to build flexibility into your life and work to protect your wellbeing
• Encouragement for parents who feel like they’re reaching breaking point

Rosie’s story is a reminder that support isn’t just helpful – it’s essential. And that while you may feel alone in the struggle, there are people out there who truly get it.

Resources

Want to connect with Dr. Rosie Gilderthorp or learn more about her work?

• Know Your Mind Consulting
• Dr Rosie's Substack
• Listen to her podcast: Pregnant and Sick

Dr Rosie also mentioned two fantastic resources during the podcast. You can find them here:

• Naomi Fisher
• IASK

Enjoyed This Episode?

If Dr. Rosie’s words resonated with you, share this episode with another SEND parent who might need to hear they’re not alone. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review – it really helps others find the show and reminds us that community starts with conversation.

What happens when you hit burnout and realise you can’t keep doing it all on your own? In this episode of The Naptime Sessions, I chat to Karen Lander - mum, community builder, and founder of Mum Hub Kent - about the real-life challenges of motherhood, and why connection and self-care are anything but optional.

Karen shares her honest journey through burnout and overwhelm, and how that difficult experience led her to create Mum Hub: a warm, welcoming space for mums to come together, share stories, and feel a little less alone. We talk about why mums so often put themselves last, how damaging that can be to our mental health, and what it looks like to start putting ourselves back on the list – even in small, doable ways.

This is a powerful reminder that motherhood doesn’t have to be a solo mission. That asking for help is a strength. And that finding joy, purpose, and connection beyond the chaos of parenting is not only possible, but necessary.

Here’s what we cover:

• Karen’s experience of burnout and how it led to creating Mum Hub Kent
• Why mums often struggle to prioritise their own needs
• The importance of community and peer support in motherhood
• How asking for help can be one of the bravest things we do
• The impact of self-care on our mental health and relationships
• Living with a rare health condition and finding strength in vulnerability
• The need for mums to have something just for them
• Why your identity doesn’t disappear when you become a parent
• Simple shifts that can help you reclaim time, energy, and joy
• Embracing the unpredictability and messiness of motherhood

Karen’s story is a beautiful reminder that support can be found in the most honest conversations – and that creating something from your own struggle can help so many others along the way.

Resources

Want to find out more about Mum Hub Kent? Visit the website, follow Karen on Instagram or Facebook.

Enjoyed This Episode?

If Karen’s words resonated with you, I’d love to hear from you. Share this episode with a mum friend who might need the reminder that she’s not alone, and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review – it helps so much and means the world.

What happens when a successful career in finance no longer fits the life you’re trying to build as a mum? In this episode of The Naptime Sessions, I chat to Marianne Dadd - accountant, mum, and all-round powerhouse – about her journey from corporate life to self-employment, and what it really takes to find balance between motherhood and meaningful work.

Marianne speaks candidly about the identity shift that came with becoming a mum, and how it pushed her to reassess everything she thought she wanted from her career. From the pressure of trying to ‘do it all’ to the judgement mums often face when making career choices, this is a real and relatable conversation for anyone standing at a similar crossroads.

We talk about the flexibility self-employment can offer, but also the fears and uncertainties that come with it – especially when the world doesn’t always recognise the immense value of what mums bring to the table. Marianne shares practical advice for those considering self-employment, along with a healthy dose of encouragement to trust your instincts, back yourself, and know your worth.

Here’s what we cover:

• The shift in identity and priorities that comes with becoming a mum
• Why Marianne chose to leave a successful finance career and go self-employed
• The challenges and rewards of working for yourself as a parent
• How societal pressure and judgement can affect mums’ career choices
• The untapped potential of mothers in the workforce
• Why confidence and clarity of purpose are key when considering self-employment
• Marianne’s tips for building a supportive work-life balance
• Why the leap into self-employment doesn’t have to be all or nothing
• Embracing the messy, non-linear paths that motherhood and careers can take

Marianne’s journey is an inspiring reminder that you don’t have to fit the mould to be successful – and that choosing a path that works for you and your family is more than enough.

Resources

Want to connect with Marianne or MD Accounting? You can find her over on her website

For more encouragement and honest conversations about motherhood, follow me over on Instagram or explore the blog.

Enjoyed This Episode?

If Marianne’s story gave you that little boost of courage you needed, I’d love to hear from you. Send me a message on Instagram or share this episode with another mum who’s thinking about taking the leap, and don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review – it means the world.

In this episode of The Mum Minute, we’re talking about gratitude and not in a cheesy, “just think positive” kind of way.

This is about simple, realistic rituals that can help shift your mindset on even the hardest parenting days.

Whether it’s you feeling overwhelmed, or your kids melting down because their toast was “too crispy,” practising gratitude (alone or together) can help you catch the tiny good moments before they get lost in the chaos.

We’ll explore how gratitude literally rewires the brain, why it’s not about ignoring the hard stuff, and how to make it a gentle, doable part of your daily rhythm - no journal pressure required.

Key Takeaways:

• Gratitude has science-backed benefits, including reducing stress and improving sleep.
• Tiny, consistent habits are what create real mindset shifts - not big, elaborate routines.
• Practising gratitude with your children teaches them to notice joy and build resilience.
• Rituals can be simple: one good thing at dinner, a bedtime “rose, thorn, bud,” or a gratitude jar.
• It’s okay if things feel hard. Gratitude isn’t a magic fix, but it can offer a moment of light in the mess.
• The goal isn’t perfection, it’s presence.

Listen now for encouragement, practical tips, and a gentle nudge to start noticing what’s already good, even if today has been a lot.

Links And Resources

Follow along on Instagram for more tools and support

Learn More about Corrina Beasley Therapy

Enjoyed This Episode?

Make sure to subscribe to The Naptime Sessions, leave a review, and share it with a mum who could use a little lift today. Got a favourite gratitude ritual? Come tell me over on Instagram, I love hearing your stories!

Until next time,

Corrina x

Not every mum is willing to lay it all bare, but in this episode of The Naptime Sessions, Geri, The Tunbridge Wells Mummy, does just that. With raw honesty and a deep desire to help other mums feel less alone, Geri opens up about her journey through motherhood: from the surreal experience of giving birth in lockdown, to the depths of postnatal depression and psychosis, to the day-to-day reality of raising two young children.

This is a powerful, heartfelt conversation about what it really feels like to become a mum in uncertain times. Geri speaks openly about the parts of motherhood that don’t always get talked about - the constant worry, the identity shifts and the pressure to have it all together. Her vulnerability is not only brave but also deeply reassuring for anyone navigating similar waters.

Here’s what we cover:

• Giving birth during a global pandemic - what it was really like
• Geri’s personal experience with postnatal depression, psychosis and recovery
• The emotional shift from one child to two and why it can feel overwhelming
• Why self-care isn’t a luxury - it’s essential
• The impact of social media and how it distorts the reality of motherhood
• Permission to use screens without guilt - it’s survival, not failure
• Embracing the imperfect, messy, wonderful reality of raising children
• The low-level hum of worry that comes with motherhood and how to manage it
• Geri’s wise advice to new mums: pick your battles and be kind to yourself

Geri’s willingness to speak so openly and vulnerably is a gift to other mums. If you’re in the thick of it, feeling unsure, stretched thin, or like you're getting it all wrong, this conversation is a warm, honest hug reminding you that you’re not alone.

Resources

Follow Geri, The Tunbridge Wells Mummy on Instagram to connect and hear more from her.

Want more support and honest conversations about motherhood? Follow me on Instagram or explore my blog for practical tips, stories, and encouragement.

Enjoyed This Episode?

If Geri’s story resonated with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Send me a message over on Instagram, share the episode with a fellow mum, and don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review, it means the world.

Until next time,

Corrina x