Finding the U in Mum Podcast

Christine Bagley-Jones

Finding the You in Mum is dedicated to sharing the personal stories of Australian mothers, with a focus on how they retain their sense of self amidst the demands of motherhood. We aim to support women who may be struggling to rediscover their identity during the many stages of motherhood. Each episode brings together diverse voices—women from various backgrounds and professions—to explore how they maintain their mental well-being, stay grounded, and hold on to their authentic selves while navigating the challenges of modern parenting.

Episodes

  1. DEC 1

    Finding Balance: Jodi Duval's Insights into Motherhood and Health

    In this uplifting and insightful episode of Finding the U in Mum, we sit down with the incredible Jodi Duval—naturopathic physician, founder of Revival Health, and devoted mother of two. Jodi brings a rare blend of scientific understanding, lived experience, and heartfelt honesty to the conversation as she explores what it truly means to maintain your identity while navigating the evolving, unpredictable landscape of motherhood. Jodi has built a respected career centred on helping others optimise their health through evidence-based naturopathic practices, and her passion shines through every word she shares. As she opens up about her own transition into motherhood—a role she hadn’t always planned but embraced wholeheartedly—Jodi offers deeply relatable reflections on shifting priorities, redefining purpose, and allowing growth to unfold both personally and professionally. Throughout the episode, she dives into the real challenges modern mothers face, including the universal experience of mother guilt. With disarming clarity, Jodi unpacks the emotional load so many women carry, reframing guilt as a natural expression of wanting to do better while reminding listeners not to let it overshadow their days. Her practical and compassionate advice—from embracing micro-moments of rest to recognising decision fatigue—serves as a roadmap for nurturing well-being in the busiest seasons of life. Jodi’s wisdom extends beyond strategies and into the heart of selfhood. She beautifully articulates how staying connected to your values and identity not only strengthens you as a woman but creates a powerful ripple effect for your family. As she so lovingly puts it: "You can make a difference in this world by just maintaining who you are and supporting your children—but not losing sight of that." Warm, encouraging, and deeply empowering, this conversation with Jodi Duval is a reminder that motherhood doesn’t ask us to choose between our passions and our families. Instead, it invites us to integrate them—and to honour the woman within the mum. Join us for an episode that will inspire you to breathe a little deeper, reflect a little more, and reconnect with the parts of yourself that make you you. 🎧 Finding the You in Mum is hosted by Christine Bagley-Jones, psychologist, author, and long-time ABC Radio contributor. Each episode explores the messy, beautiful intersections of identity, motherhood, and mental health. 💬 Subscribe, rate & review on your favourite podcast platform. 📲 Follow us on Instagram @plenishmindhealth 🌐 Learn more at www.plenishmindhealth.com.au 📩 For enquiries or guest suggestions, contact: admin@plenishmindhealth.com.au

    32 min
  2. NOV 3

    The Importance of Taking Care of Your Mental Health In Motherhood: A Journey of Self & Resilience

    Welcome back to Finding the U in Mum! Meet Lauren Fisher, the bold and candid voice behind Mental as a Mother, a fiercely honest and compassionate platform based in Brisbane (Meanjin), Australia. As a single mum to two spirited daughters, Lauren brings raw authenticity to every conversation about motherhood, mental health, feminism, and the messy, beautiful reality of being a modern parent. Lauren’s own journey includes a devastating bout of postnatal depression and anxiety that led to a three-week hospital stay. Instead of staying silent, she chose to share her story—unfiltered, unashamed, and unapologetic—as a way to break the stigma around maternal mental health and help others feel seen. On Mental as a Mother, Lauren writes with fierce honesty and warmth, covering topics from fertility and miscarriage to rainbow families, social justice, and the absurdities of parenting. Beyond her blog, Lauren’s social media channels serve as a real-time space where she continues to challenge perfection and nurture connection, all while rocking her signature bold lip. In this episode, Lauren will take us behind the scenes of her creative process, share her hard-won wisdom on postpartum mental health, and inspire listeners to embrace radical self-compassion in the face of parenthood’s unpredictability.  🎧 Finding the You in Mum is hosted by Christine Bagley-Jones, psychologist, author, and long-time ABC Radio contributor. Each episode explores the messy, beautiful intersections of identity, motherhood, and mental health. 💬 Subscribe, rate & review on your favourite podcast platform. 📲 Follow us on Instagram @plenishmindhealth 🌐 Learn more at www.plenishmindhealth.com.au 📩 For enquiries or guest suggestions, contact: admin@plenishmindhealth.com.au

    44 min
  3. SEP 1

    Creating a Sense of Community While on the Road & Chasing Your Dreams as a Mum

    Motherhood rarely follows a straight path — and for Jade Payne, it has been anything but ordinary. In this heartfelt conversation, Jade opens up about becoming a mum at 19, facing societal judgments, and ultimately redefining what it means to live life fully. From selling everything to travel across Australia with her husband, four children, and pets, to navigating grief, perfectionism, and even a kidney cancer diagnosis, Jade’s story is one of resilience, spontaneity, and courage. She shares how these challenges shaped her perspective on motherhood, identity, and the importance of community support. Jade also talks about launching her sustainable activewear brand, Wild Body, born from a renewed outlook on health and the desire to create change. Her mantra, “Being a mum is a part of me, it’s not all of me,” reminds us that motherhood, while profound, is not the entirety of who we are. Join us for this inspiring episode as we explore Jade’s journey — a powerful testament to adaptability, healing, and the beauty that can be found in life’s unpredictability. 🎧 Finding the You in Mum is hosted by Christine Bagley-Jones, psychologist, author, and long-time ABC Radio contributor. Each episode explores the messy, beautiful intersections of identity, motherhood, and mental health. 💬 Subscribe, rate & review on your favourite podcast platform. 📲 Follow us on Instagram @plenishmindhealth 🌐 Learn more at www.plenishmindhealth.com.au 📩 For enquiries or guest suggestions, contact: admin@plenishmindhealth.com.au

    43 min
  4. AUG 18

    Evolving Motherhood: Curating Time For You While Being a Super-Mum

    Welcome back to Finding the U in Mum! On this fortnight's episode Christine sits down with Jessica. Jess is the warm and down-to-earth the voice behind the popular Instagram account @just_being_mum_. She is a proud wife, a devoted mum, and a small business owner who has built a loyal following by sharing the unfiltered moments of motherhood — the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Her content resonates with so many women because it's real. She talks about the beautiful chaos of family life, the juggle of running a home and a business, and the emotional rollercoaster that often comes with trying to hold it all together. Beyond Instagram, Jessica runs SB Events and Hire, an event styling and hire business that reflects her creative side and entrepreneurial drive. Whether she's behind the camera sharing her daily life, or behind the scenes styling events, Jessica shows us how you can embrace the different sides of yourself — not just as a mum, but as a woman too. In this episode, we explore how she finds space for herself in the midst of it all, what inspired her to start her page, and how building a community of other women online has helped her rediscover her own identity. It’s a candid, comforting chat with someone who truly understands what it means to lose — and then find — the “you” in mum. 🎧 Finding the You in Mum is hosted by Christine Bagley-Jones, psychologist, author, and long-time ABC Radio contributor. Each episode explores the messy, beautiful intersections of identity, motherhood, and mental health. 💬 Subscribe, rate & review on your favourite podcast platform. 📲 Follow us on Instagram @plenishmindhealth 🌐 Learn more at www.plenishmindhealth.com.au 📩 For enquiries or guest suggestions, contact: admin@plenishmindhealth.com.au

    32 min
  5. Redefining Motherhood in the Modern World

    JUL 15

    Redefining Motherhood in the Modern World

    In this episode of Finding the U in Mum, host Christine Bagley-Jones interviews Christina Stoddart, founder of Diamond Diversity—an international hair and makeup business that has grown alongside her journey through motherhood. Christina shares openly about her unexpected transition into parenthood and her struggle with undiagnosed perinatal depression, highlighting the crucial support she received from both her husband and a doula during that time. The conversation explores the challenges of juggling multiple identities—mother, entrepreneur, partner, and individual. Christina speaks candidly about the personal decision to create distance from certain family relationships for the sake of her mental well-being. Her reflections underscore the importance of establishing healthy boundaries, staying connected to one’s core values, and practising ongoing self-compassion. She also offers thoughtful advice for mothers trying to balance personal goals with family responsibilities. From embracing the power of saying no to permitting oneself to take breaks, Christina encourages listeners to acknowledge their needs without guilt. As part of maintaining her well-being, Christina shares how solo international travel has become a form of renewal. These trips allow her to reconnect with herself, gain fresh perspective, and return to her family feeling recharged. This episode is a powerful reminder that motherhood doesn’t mean letting go of one’s dreams. With support, intention, and self-awareness, it’s possible to grow a family and a fulfilling life in parallel. 🎧 Finding the You in Mum is hosted by Christine Bagley-Jones, psychologist, author, and long-time ABC Radio contributor. Each episode explores the messy, beautiful intersections of identity, motherhood, and mental health. 💬 Subscribe, rate & review on your favourite podcast platform. 📲 Follow us on Instagram @plenishmindhealth 🌐 Learn more at www.plenishmindhealth.com.au 📩 For enquiries or guest suggestions, contact: admin@plenishmindhealth.com.au

    37 min
  6. JUL 1

    Navigating Tradition & Independence: Penny's Story

    In this episode, the podcast explores the inspiring journey of Penny, a mother of five daughters and grandmother of eight. Penny shares her extensive accomplishments, including owning a café, running a real estate and advertising agency, and earning multiple degrees post-divorce. She discusses her challenging experiences of being disowned by the Greek community, raising her children as a single mother, and finding her identity beyond traditional cultural expectations. Penny offers insights into balancing motherhood with personal goals, emphasizing the importance of self-love, faith, and setting an example for her daughters. She also provides relatable anecdotes and valuable advice on maintaining personal well-being while nurturing a family. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 01:13 Overcoming Cultural Challenges 01:39 Achievements and Education 02:07 Divorce and Single Motherhood 03:46 Family and Parenting 06:22 Travel and Cultural Heritage 07:29 Self-Care and Personal Growth 12:42 Breaking Traditions and Modern Greek Women 15:45 Navigating Mixed Families and Finding Closure 16:25 The Concept of Supermum: A Construct to Dismantle? 17:53 Balancing Work, Family, and Personal Identity 20:46 The Importance of Self-Discovery and Personal Strength 24:24 Faith, Loneliness, and Community Challenges 27:55 Wisdom and Reflections on Motherhood 🎧 Finding the You in Mum is hosted by Christine Bagley-Jones, psychologist, author, and long-time ABC Radio contributor. Each episode explores the messy, beautiful intersections of identity, motherhood, and mental health. 💬 Subscribe, rate & review on your favourite podcast platform. 📲 Follow us on Instagram @plenishmindhealth 🌐 Learn more at www.plenishmindhealth.com.au 📩 For enquiries or guest suggestions, contact: admin@plenishmindhealth.com.au

    30 min
  7. JUN 12

    Finding the U in Mum: The Dance of Womanhood and Motherhood

    In this episode of 'Finding the U in Mum,' host Christine Bagley-Jones—Amazon best-selling author, practising psychologist, and long-time resident psychologist for ABC Radio welcomes Liz Washington, a successful journalist, businesswoman, and mother of four. Liz discusses her unexpected journey into motherhood at a young age and how she balanced her career aspirations with raising her children. She shares insights on maintaining individuality, the importance of self-care rituals, and the impact of a supportive community. Liz also emphasizes the significance of advocating for one's passions and navigating the complex dynamics of motherhood without losing oneself in the process. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that explores the dance between being a woman and being a mother, filled with practical advice and heartfelt stories. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview   02:03 Liz's Journey to Motherhood   08:00 Balancing Identity and Motherhood   11:41 The Role of Support Systems   21:01 Challenges and Realities of Parenting   33:18 Balancing Motherhood and Personal Interests   34:22 Reality TV Show Comparison   36:00 Navigating Loneliness and Building a Village   47:56 The Importance of Personal Rituals   51:59 Embracing Physical and Emotional Changes   58:18 The Power of Strong Friendships   01:01:31 Final Thoughts and Tips for Mothers 🎧 Finding the You in Mum is hosted by Christine Bagley-Jones, psychologist, author, and long-time ABC Radio contributor. Each episode explores the messy, beautiful intersections of identity, motherhood, and mental health. 💬 Subscribe, rate & review on your favourite podcast platform. 📲 Follow us on Instagram @plenishmindhealth 🌐 Learn more at www.plenishmindhealth.com.au 📩 For enquiries or guest suggestions, contact: admin@plenishmindhealth.com.au 🎧 Finding the You in Mum is hosted by Christine Bagley-Jones, psychologist, author, and long-time ABC Radio contributor. Each episode explores the messy, beautiful intersections of identity, motherhood, and mental health. 💬 Subscribe, rate & review on your favourite podcast platform. 📲 Follow us on Instagram @plenishmindhealth 🌐 Learn more at www.plenishmindhealth.com.au 📩 For enquiries or guest suggestions, contact: admin@plenishmindhealth.com.au

    1h 3m
  8. The Art of Finding U in Mum: A Stepmother’s Perspective

    JUN 12

    The Art of Finding U in Mum: A Stepmother’s Perspective

    In this heartfelt episode of Finding the You in Mum, host Christine Bagley-Jones—Amazon best-selling author, practising psychologist, and long-time resident psychologist for ABC Radio—sits down with her close friend Georgie, a talented digital artist whose interactive installations aim to foster empathy and human connection. Georgie opens up about her creative journey, international adventures, and the unique experience of being a stepmother in three different relationships. She shares the emotional complexities, joys, and lessons that have come with blending families, all while navigating the demands of a creative career. The conversation also explores Georgie's formative years in a British boarding school and how they shaped her perspectives on love, self-expression, and parenting. Christine and Georgie reflect on the importance of carving out personal space, sustaining creative identity in motherhood, and building nurturing family dynamics rooted in mutual support and stability. 🎧 Finding the You in Mum is hosted by Christine Bagley-Jones, psychologist, author, and long-time ABC Radio contributor. Each episode explores the messy, beautiful intersections of identity, motherhood, and mental health. 💬 Subscribe, rate & review on your favourite podcast platform. 📲 Follow us on Instagram @plenishmindhealth 🌐 Learn more at www.plenishmindhealth.com.au 📩 For enquiries or guest suggestions, contact: admin@plenishmindhealth.com.au

    32 min

About

Finding the You in Mum is dedicated to sharing the personal stories of Australian mothers, with a focus on how they retain their sense of self amidst the demands of motherhood. We aim to support women who may be struggling to rediscover their identity during the many stages of motherhood. Each episode brings together diverse voices—women from various backgrounds and professions—to explore how they maintain their mental well-being, stay grounded, and hold on to their authentic selves while navigating the challenges of modern parenting.