After the Gin Settles

Elissa Ginn
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  • Parenting

After the Gin Settles is a podcast hosted by two sisters navigating the beautiful, messy reality of modern life. From raising neurodivergent kids and carrying the mental load, to grief, advocacy, inclusion, relationships, burnout, and everything in between, we have the conversations many people are already having quietly in their kitchens, cars, and group chats. Our maiden name is Ginn, so this podcast is about more than a cheeky drink reference. It's about what happens after the chaos settles, when the noise dies down and there's finally space to talk honestly about the things that shape us. With warmth, dark humour, lived experience, and a healthy dose of sisterly banter, we'll unpack the challenges, joys, frustrations, and unexpected moments that make us who we are. We're not experts. We're just two sisters sharing stories, asking questions, and trying to make life feel a little less lonely. Because sometimes the most important conversations happen after the gin settles.

Episodes

  1. 6d ago

    Episode 11 - The Haunting of the Gin Settles

    Things are about to get a little spooky… and a little unhinged. 🍸🖤 This week, we're chatting all things Halloween in Australia, spooky encounters, things that go bump in the night, and the experiences that stick with us long after the lights come on. From motherhood guilt and the things that haunt us emotionally, to personal phobias, creepy places, questionable zombie apocalypse survival plans, and a storytelling game that takes a turn… this episode has a little bit of everything. 😂💀 Are you a believer in the supernatural? Do you have a spooky story you can't explain? Or are you just here for the costumes, lollies, and an excuse to dress up? 🎃 Pour yourself a drink, settle in, and join us for a Halloween episode full of laughs, stories, and a few things that might just give you goosebumps. 👻 A little technical gremlin disclaimer! 👻 We're sorry for the video issues in this episode! Elissa's video goes out of sync and eventually disappears partway through. We've clearly attracted a ghost of the technological kind. 👻😂 The audio and conversation are still there, so please stick with us while you listen! As always, thanks for being here, having a laugh with us, and being part of the conversations that happen After the Gin Settles. ❤️🍸 #AfterTheGinSettles #HalloweenEpisode #TheHauntingOfTheGinSettles #HalloweenAustralia #PodcastLife #SisterChats #SpookySeason

  2. Oct 10

    Episode 10 - Complex Medical World of Battens

    Episode 10: The Complex Medical World of Batten Disease ❤️Caring for a child with complex medical needs is a whole world most of us never see until we're suddenly thrown into it. In this episode of After the Gin Settles, Haidee and Elissa get real about the complex medical world of Batten disease and what it actually looks like when your child's care involves endless appointments, medical professionals, seizures, emergency plans and trying to navigate a healthcare system that doesn't always make things easy. Haidee shares her experiences navigating this world as Harper's mum, while we talk about the realities of balancing work, family, caregiving and the mental load that comes with trying to hold everything together. We get into the impact of COVID-19, understanding seizures, advocating for your child's medical needs in an education setting, and the importance of communication and support when you're managing more than most people will ever realise. Because caring for a child with complex medical needs isn't just about the medical stuff. It's the emotional toll, the pressure on the whole family, the invisible mental load and trying to look after your own mental health when so much of your energy goes into looking after someone else. This is an honest conversation about the realities families face, the communities that help carry them through, and why accessible mental health support matters. It's a conversation about Harper, about caregiving, and about the parts of this journey that people don't always see. As always, we're talking about the real stuff. ❤️ In this episode, we talk about:Navigating complex medical needs and healthcare systemsThe realities of caregiving and advocating for your childLiving through COVID-19 while managing complex careBalancing work, family and caregivingUnderstanding seizures and preparing for emergenciesSupporting children's medical needs in educational settingsThe impact of caregiving on family dynamicsThe invisible mental load that comes with caring for someone elseMental health support and the importance of supportive communitiesChapters00:00 Introduction to Harper's Journey 03:50 The Reality of Complex Care 10:06 Living Through COVID-19 14:05 Balancing Work and Caregiving 16:56 Understanding Seizures 25:05 Emergency Preparedness and Support 27:19 Supporting Medical Needs in Education 32:16 Impact on Family Dynamics 36:39 The Invisible Mental Load 44:11 Accessing Mental Health Support 45:43 Celebrating Supportive Communities If you're navigating complex care yourself, we hope this conversation reminds you that you're not alone. And if you've never experienced this world, we hope it helps you understand a little more about what families like Harper's go through. ❤️ Listen, share and join the conversation. Find After the Gin Settles on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

  3. Sep 26

    Episode 9 - Burnout in Caring Professions

    Burnout in Caring Professions: The Reality, Impact & How We Can Support Each Other What happens when the work you care deeply about begins to take a toll on your own wellbeing? In this episode, we explore the realities of burnout in caring professions, from the personal and professional challenges of working in roles centred around supporting others, to the pressures that can make these professions both deeply rewarding and incredibly demanding. We share personal experiences of choosing a caring profession, explore what burnout can look and feel like, and discuss the impact it can have not only on individuals, but also on the people and communities they care for. We also unpack the stress performance curve and how prolonged or excessive stress can affect performance, wellbeing, and our ability to continue functioning effectively at work. The conversation then turns to practical approaches to coping, self-care, advocacy and support, and the importance of creating workplaces and systems that better support the people who spend their careers caring for others. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Experiences01:54 The Role of Caring Professions03:29 Challenges and Realities of Caring Professions10:16 Choosing a Caring Profession22:03 The Experience of Burnout27:22 Understanding the Stress Performance Curve30:14 The Impact of Burnout on Caring Professions37:07 Coping Strategies and Self-Care47:19 Advocacy and Support for Caring Professions If you work in a caring profession—or support someone who does—we hope this conversation gives you space to reflect, recognise the signs of burnout, and consider how we can build healthier, more supportive environments for those who care for others. Thanks for listening! If you found this conversation valuable, please consider liking the video, subscribing to the channel, and sharing it with someone who might benefit from the conversation. #Burnout #CaringProfessions #MentalHealth #SelfCare #WorkplaceWellbeing #Healthcare #StressManagement #Podcast

  4. Sep 12

    Episode 8 - Friendships After 30

    Why does friendship feel SO different after thirty?! 🍷 In this episode of After the Gin Settles, we’re talking about the friendships that have survived, the ones that have quietly faded away, and the ones we somehow found our way back to years later. We chat about how life events, partners, kids, family and just… getting older can completely change our friendships. Some friendships become deeper and start to feel like chosen family, while others naturally ebb and flow as we move through different stages of life. And then there’s making NEW friends in your thirties. Because honestly… how?! 😂 Between work, kids, responsibilities and the fact that nobody seems to just casually hang out anymore, finding your people as an adult can feel surprisingly hard. We also get into the weird world of social media friendships, reconnecting with old friends, family friends, maintaining friendships when life gets busy, and whether sending someone an Instagram reel occasionally counts as keeping in touch. 👀 Plus, we talk about rediscovering old hobbies in your thirties — because maybe finding yourself again also means finding the people you actually want to spend time with. In this episode, we explore: 🍷 How friendships change after thirty 🍷 Why maintaining friendships takes actual effort 🍷 The different layers of friendship 🍷 Losing touch and reconnecting with old friends 🍷 Making new friends as an adult 🍷 Friendship as chosen family 🍷 The role of social media in keeping friendships alive 🍷 Family friends and friendships that span generations 🍷 The ebb and flow of friendships through different life stages 🍷 Rediscovering old hobbies — and maybe old versions of ourselves 🍷 And the ongoing struggle of navigating friendship in the age of technology Because sometimes friendship isn't about talking every day. Sometimes it's knowing that when you finally do reconnect, you can pick up exactly where you left off. ❤️ Chapters00:00 Introduction and Acknowledgment 01:12 Changes in Friendships After Thirty 03:03 Impact of Life Events on Friendships 06:10 Depth and Layers of Friendships 09:35 Maintaining Friendships Through Different Stages of Life 11:15 The Role of Social Media in Friendships 13:40 Challenges in Making Friends After Thirty 20:02 Reconnecting with Old Friends 24:25 Impact of Life Changes on Friendships 26:25 Navigating Evolving Friendships 27:52 Reconnecting with Old Friends 29:12 Maintaining Friendships After School 31:18 Friendship Across Different Life Stages 32:10 The Impact of Family and Family Friends on Friendships 33:34 The Ebb and Flow of Friendships 34:02 Friendship as Chosen Family 35:16 The Concept of Family Friends 36:06 Childhood Friendships and Family Friends 38:31 Maintaining Friendships Through Social Media 40:04 Making Friends in Your Thirties 42:28 Rediscovering Old Hobbies in Your Thirties 44:12 Navigating Modern Technology in Friendships

  5. Aug 29

    Episode 7 - Neurodiversity in children

    When You Start Seeing the SignsWhat happens when the parenting journey you imagined starts looking very different from the one you’re actually living? In this episode of After the Gin Settles, we reflect on our own childhoods, the expectations we had for parenting, and the moments when we first started noticing that something was different for our children. We talk about the early signs of neurodivergence, the things we initially dismissed or misunderstood, and the hindsight that comes with finally having answers. From recognising those first signs to navigating assessments, diagnosis and the NDIS pathway, we share the messy, confusing and often exhausting reality of trying to get the right support for your child. We also talk about the emotional side of the journey—advocating for your child, questioning yourself as a parent, seeking early intervention, and learning to understand neurodiversity while you're still figuring it all out yourself. Because sometimes the hardest part isn't getting a diagnosis. It's getting to the point where you realise you need to ask the question in the first place. In this episode, we chat about:Reflecting on our own childhood experiencesThe expectations and naivety we had about parentingRecognising early signs of neurodivergenceThe things we noticed—and the things we missedThe challenges of pursuing assessment and diagnosisAdvocating for your child when you don't yet have all the answersNavigating the NDIS pathway and early interventionThe emotional load of supporting a neurodivergent childUnderstanding neurodiversityParenting, self-reflection and the things we wish we'd known soonerFinding support while trying to support everyone elseChapters00:00 – Chit-Chat and Coffee 01:24 – Personal Reflections 04:07 – Parenting Expectations 06:05 – The Naivety of Parenting 09:46 – Early Signs in Children 13:06 – Recognising the Signs 20:06 – The Challenges of Diagnosis 25:44 – The Path to Diagnosis 27:10 – Navigating the NDIS Pathway 32:51 – Seeking Early Intervention and Diagnosis 34:05 – Challenges and Support for Parents 37:13 – Understanding Neurodiversity 40:26 – Parenting and Self-Reflection 47:34 – Parenting Challenges and Support If you've ever found yourself thinking “I wish I'd known then what I know now”, this one is for you. ❤️ After the Gin Settles is a podcast about the things we don't always talk about when life, parenting and family don't go according to plan. Pull up a chair, pour yourself a drink, and settle in with us.

  6. Aug 15

    Episode 6 - Surviving School Holidays

    School holidays... they sound relaxing in theory. In reality? They're often fuelled by snacks, screen time negotiations, and wondering how it's only 10:30am. In this episode of After the Gin Settles, we chat honestly about what school holidays look like when you're raising neurodivergent kids. We talk about the huge difference between the structure of the school term and the chaos that holidays can bring, why routine matters so much for autistic children, and the constant juggling act parents do trying to keep everyone regulated (including themselves). We also dive into the struggle of finding activities that are genuinely inclusive, why "family fun" isn't always designed with sensory needs in mind, and the awkward reality of organising playdates when you're not just getting to know the child... you're secretly interviewing the parents too. Along the way we reminisce about growing up in Mildura, laugh about childhood memories at the old Gold River Zoo, and share the local wins that are making a difference for families, from sensory-friendly events to community initiatives. As always, it's a conversation filled with honesty, laughter, a few rabbit holes, and the reassurance that if school holidays leave you counting down until the first day back, you're definitely not the only one. In this episode we chat about: Why school holidays can be so overwhelming for neurodivergent families.The importance of routine and predictable structure.The pressure to keep kids entertained (without spending a fortune).Inclusive and sensory-friendly activities that actually work.The therapy juggle during school holidays.Parenting wins, parenting fails, and everything in between.Growing up in Mildura and the memories that still make us smile.Why sometimes surviving the holidays is enough.So pour yourself a drink (gin optional), settle in, and join us for another honest conversation about the beautiful, messy reality of parenting.

  7. Aug 1

    Episode 5 - Our Experiences with Sport

    For so many of us, sport is about so much more than winning. It's where we found confidence, lifelong friendships, questionable hairstyles, sore muscles, and some of our best memories. It's also where we learnt resilience, dealt with disappointment, and discovered just how much community can shape who we become. In this episode, we're talking about our own sporting journeys. From the sports we grew up playing, to the years we stepped away, and what it's been like returning as parents cheering from the sidelines. We chat about how sport influenced our confidence, careers and sense of identity, why getting back into exercise as adults can feel so hard, and the reality of raising kids who love sport (while trying to juggle everything else life throws at you!). Whether you're still playing every weekend, cheering from the sidelines, or wondering if you'll ever dust off your runners again, we hope this conversation reminds you that sport isn't just about fitness—it's about belonging. As always, these are just our stories, shared with plenty of laughs, a little nostalgia, and the occasional tangent. 💛 We'd love to hear your sporting story. What sport shaped your childhood? Are you still playing, or have you become the loudest supporter on the sidelines? Chapters00:00 – Where Our Sporting Journeys Began 01:35 – From Players to Proud Spectators 12:39 – How Sport Shaped Our Confidence 20:14 – Finding Our Way Back to Movement 24:46 – Why Sport Still Matters 27:03 – Returning to Sport as Adults 30:23 – Body Image, Confidence & Participation 33:39 – Celebrating Our Amazing Volunteers 35:26 – Raising Sporty Kids 38:27 – The Juggle of Family Life & Weekend Sport

  8. Jul 18

    Episode 4 - The Diagnosis that Broke Our Family

    In this deeply personal episode of After the Gin Settles, we share the story of the diagnosis that changed everything — Harper’s journey with Batten disease and the moment our family’s world shifted forever. We talk about the long road to answers, the uncertainty of not knowing what was happening, and the emotional rollercoaster that came with finally receiving a diagnosis. Because sometimes the answer you spend so long searching for is the one you’re most afraid to hear. We open up about the heartbreak of navigating a rare disease diagnosis, the grief that comes with it, and the reality of learning to live alongside something you never imagined your family would face. We talk about the moments that broke us, the moments that carried us, and the memories with Harper that we will hold onto forever. This conversation is also about the power of family, the importance of support when life feels impossible, and why sharing stories matters. Through advocacy and awareness, we hope to shine a light on rare diseases and the families who are learning to navigate them every day. Because behind every diagnosis is a person, a family, and a story that deserves to be heard. In this episode, we talk about:The journey towards Harper’s diagnosis and the challenges of finding answersThe emotional impact of receiving a rare disease diagnosisWhat it’s like navigating grief while still making memoriesUnderstanding Batten disease and its impact on familiesThe importance of family support during the hardest momentsHarper’s legacy and why advocacy and awareness matterChapters00:00 The Diagnosis That Broke Our Family 03:03 The Path to Diagnosis 10:00 The Impact of the Diagnosis 23:29 The Devastating News 25:00 Navigating Grief and Finding Support 32:38 Understanding Batten Disease 33:39 The Impact of Batten Disease 36:03 Harper’s Legacy 39:01 Advocacy and Awareness 46:18 A Frightening Encounter This episode contains discussions of childhood illness, rare disease, grief and loss. Please take care while listening.

  9. Jul 4

    Episode 3 - F@#$ Parenting Expectations

    The conversation covers the experiences of Haidee and Elissa, as they discuss their parenting expectations and the realities of motherhood. They share their challenges with sleep, breastfeeding, and the guilt associated with deviating from societal norms. The conversation also touches on the topic of co-sleeping and the impact of gender roles on parenting. The conversation covers various aspects of parenting, including breastfeeding, parenting expectations, and car seat safety. The speakers share their experiences and challenges, highlighting the need for support and understanding in parenting. Chapters 00:00 Week in Review13:06 Challenges of Sleep and Breastfeeding18:38 Co-Sleeping and Gender Roles24:10 Stigma Around Breastfeeding29:31 Parenting Expectations and Screen Time36:25 Changing Parenting Decisions

  10. Jun 20

    Episode 2: Our Pregnancy Stories

    The episode delves into the personal experiences of the hosts with pregnancy, infertility, and pregnancy loss. They share statistics on miscarriage in Australia and discuss the emotional and physical challenges they faced during their pregnancies. The conversation also highlights the lack of understanding and support for those who have experienced pregnancy loss. The conversation covers various aspects of pregnancy, miscarriage, and the challenges associated with it. It also delves into the experiences of the speakers during their pregnancies, including the emotional and physical toll it took on them. The conversation also touches on the impact of miscarriage and the support available for those who have experienced it. Takeaways Miscarriage statistics in AustraliaEmotional and physical challenges of pregnancyLack of understanding and support for those who have experienced pregnancy loss Pregnancy experiences vary widely, and each person's journey is unique.Miscarriage support and resources are essential for those who have experienced pregnancy loss. Chapters 00:00 Lack of Understanding and Support for Pregnancy Loss25:38 Pregnancy Experiences35:12 Miscarriage Support and Resources

  11. Jun 14

    Episode 1: Meet the Hosts

    Most parents are barely hanging on yet in the chaos, real connection and resilience shine through. In this raw, hilarious debut, Elissa and Haidee peel back the layers of motherhood, neurodivergence, grief, and friendship, all over a glass of gin. Discover how two women navigating life’s chaos find strength in honesty, humor, and each other’s support, without sugarcoating the hard stuff. This episode is for parents, caregivers, and anyone tired of the glossy filtered version of life online. If you’re craving authentic stories that remind you you’re not alone, you’ll want to listen from start to finish. Expect humor, honesty, and a whole lot of heart (plus an occasional swear word or two). With Elissa, a dedicated advocate working with sporting clubs and supporting her neurodiverse kids, and Haidee, a passionate supporter of mental health and a football-loving mum balancing work and family chaos, they prove that life’s messiness is where real connection lives. Join the conversation if you're ready for the truth behind the perfect Instagram feed and stories about resilience, grief, and friendship in the trenches. Perfect for anyone who’s ever felt overwhelmed but refuses to give up. And if you thought having a glass of gin makes life easier, you're in for a treat. Because after the gin settles, these two sisters unpack the week’s wins, losses, and everything in between — raw, funny, and completely real.

  • 11 Episodes

About

After the Gin Settles is a podcast hosted by two sisters navigating the beautiful, messy reality of modern life. From raising neurodivergent kids and carrying the mental load, to grief, advocacy, inclusion, relationships, burnout, and everything in between, we have the conversations many people are already having quietly in their kitchens, cars, and group chats. Our maiden name is Ginn, so this podcast is about more than a cheeky drink reference. It's about what happens after the chaos settles, when the noise dies down and there's finally space to talk honestly about the things that shape us. With warmth, dark humour, lived experience, and a healthy dose of sisterly banter, we'll unpack the challenges, joys, frustrations, and unexpected moments that make us who we are. We're not experts. We're just two sisters sharing stories, asking questions, and trying to make life feel a little less lonely. Because sometimes the most important conversations happen after the gin settles.

Information

  • Creator
    Elissa Ginn
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    11
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Elissa Ginn
  • Show Website
    After the Gin Settles