Hot Messes, Big Visions

The Village Co.
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For the career driven, the founders, the mums, and the makers building the village while still cleaning up snack crumbs and living on less than 4 hours sleep.

Episodes

  1. 5D AGO

    Camping With Preschoolers: Chaos, Core Memories & Why We Always Say “Let’s Do It Again

    Camping with preschoolers is not for the faint-hearted. In this episode, we unpack the beautiful chaos of family camping trips, the sleep deprivation, emotional meltdowns (from kids and adults), post-surgery recovery, and the strange parenting phenomenon where you swear never again… only to start planning the next trip days later. We share honest reflections on marriage under pressure, parenting through exhaustion, and why humour is sometimes the only survival tool. Along the way, we talk about building a brand in the middle of real life, leaning on community support, and collaborating with people who truly understand the parenting experience. It’s raw, funny, relatable and a reminder that the messiest moments often become the memories we treasure most. Hot messes. Big visions. And muddy shoes. Key Takeaways • Camping can seriously test your patience (and your marriage).• Making memories with your kids is hard work — but deeply rewarding.• Parenting post-surgery adds a whole new level of challenge.• Sleep deprivation is basically a parenting rite of passage.• Community support matters more than we realise.• Humour helps everything.• Building a brand takes collaboration and understanding.• Your parenting perspective evolves over time.• Kids absolutely copy their siblings (for better or worse).• Every chaotic moment is still a learning moment.

    41 min

  2. JAN 28

    Ep011: What No One Tells You About Parenthood | Hormones, Hair Loss & Losing Motivation

    No one warns you that parenthood can change your body, your energy, and even your motivation — and that it’s not because you’re lazy, failing, or “not coping well enough.” In this episode of Hot Messes, Big Visions, Nikki and Sophia talk honestly about the parts of parenthood that rarely get said out loud:hair loss, hormone shifts, emotional exhaustion, and the quiet loss of motivation so many parents experience after having kids. This isn’t about fixing yourself.It’s about understanding what’s actually happening — and realising you’re not alone. • Why hair loss after kids is more common than we admit• How hormones impact motivation, mood, and energy• Why “rest” doesn’t always fix exhaustion• The guilt parents carry for not bouncing back• Why this isn’t a personal failure — it’s a support gap• How naming the reality can be the first relief If you’ve ever thought “Why am I still so tired?” or “What’s wrong with me?” — this episode is for you. 🎧 New episodes every week💛 Share this with a parent who needs to hear it In this episode, we talk about:

    1h 2m

  3. JAN 22

    EP 010: Why Parents With Childcare Are Still Exhausted | Mental Load & Burnout

    But you have childcare… why are you still tired?”We got asked this recently and honestly, it stopped us in our tracks. In this episode of Hot Messes, Big Visions, we unpack why having childcare doesn’t magically make parenting easy, why so many parents still feel exhausted even with support, and how modern parenting has quietly turned tiredness into a personal failure. Spoiler: it’s not. We talk about: Why childcare doesn’t cancel mental load (or emotional labour) The pressure of mini mum “girl gangs” and comparison culture Why parents are still everything to everyone — even after school and daycare drop-off How we turn any spare capacity into more responsibility (hello degrees, side hustles, and “I’ll just do one more thing”) And why being tired doesn’t mean you’re doing parenting wrong — it means you’re carrying a lot This isn’t a clapback.It’s a very real, very honest chat between friends, the kind where you laugh, nod, and think oh thank god it’s not just me. If you’re tired even with help, you’re not failing.Parenting doesn’t get easy when you get support, it gets honest.

    23 min

  4. JAN 8

    EP 009: “What Holiday?” Parenting Through Christmas & Total Exhaustion

    Christmas is often painted as a time to slow down and soak it all in — but for many parents, it can feel anything but restful. In this episode of Hot Messes Big Visions, Nikki and Soph reflect on the reality of parenting through the holiday season. From managing Christmas expectations and cultural traditions to hosting, working, and navigating the chaos that comes with kids at home, this conversation explores why the holidays can feel so overwhelming. We talk honestly about: the pressure to create the “perfect” Christmas expectations vs reality during the holidays cultural differences in how Christmas is celebrated parenting exhaustion and holiday burnout balancing work and family life the gaps in childcare and support for parents As we look ahead to the year to come, we also share what we’re excited about, what we’re planning for the platform, and how we hope to better support parents moving forward. If Christmas left you feeling tired, overstimulated, or quietly thinking “was that even a holiday?” — you’re not alone. This episode is a reminder that you don’t have to do it all, and that parenting through the holidays is hard for so many families. Chapters 00:00 Welcome & reflecting on the holidays 02:40 Christmas expectations vs reality 05:14 Cultural Christmas celebrations 08:36 Holiday exhaustion with kids 14:07 Finding routine after the holidays 19:13 Parenting, work & work-life balance 23:34 Evolving childcare needs 25:54 Looking ahead to what’s next Hot Messes Big Visions is a podcast about parenting, identity, work, and modern family life — told honestly, without pressure to have it all together.

    29 min

  5. 12/18/2025

    EP 008: December Burnout Is Real | Parenting, Pressure & End-of-Year Exhaustion

    In this lively conversation, Nikki and Soph discuss the chaos and challenges of December, particularly around Christmas. They share personal anecdotes about holiday preparations, the stress of managing children's expectations, and the realities of parenting during the festive season. The conversation touches on the pressures of gift-giving, the complexities of family traditions, and the humorous yet relatable meltdowns that occur in the lead-up to Christmas. Ultimately, they reflect on the importance of keeping things low-key and enjoying the magic of the season without overwhelming themselves. Chapters 00:00 December Dilemmas: The Holiday Hustle 05:48 Advent Adventures: The Chaos of Christmas Countdown 12:03 Meltdowns and Big Emotions: Navigating Parenting Challenges 18:08 Reflections on Parenting: Lessons Learned and Shared Experiences 20:08 The Pressure of Parenting in Public 23:34 The Christmas Conundrum: Expectations vs. Reality 26:54 Balancing Gift-Giving and Financial Realities 29:19 The Overwhelm of Holiday Preparations 33:57 Wrapping Up the Year: Reflections and Future Plans

    36 min

  6. 11/28/2025

    EP 007: Why School Holidays Are Harder Than You Expect | Summer Parenting Burnout

    In the latest episode of our podcast, we dive deep into the ups and downs of trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle while juggling the joys of life. Join us as we explore the comedic yet relatable struggles of exercise, indulgence, and the irresistible pull of the beach during the summer. Discussing RNZ article: How Grandparents feel being the go-to childcare: https://www.rnz.co.nz/life/relationships/family/how-grandparents-feel-about-being-the-go-to-childcare

    57 min

  7. 11/12/2025

    EP 006: Finding Childcare Without a Village | The Stress, Guilt & Reality for Parents

    In this episode of Hot Messes Big Visions, hosts Nikki and Sophia share their experiences as parents navigating the chaos of family life. They discuss their messiest moments, the importance of community support, and the challenges of finding reliable childcare. The conversation touches on self-care, body image, and the realities of parenting, including bedwetting and discipline strategies. Throughout the episode, they emphasize the need for kindness towards oneself and the value of sharing parenting experiences with others.

    35 min

  8. 10/29/2025

    EP 005: The Identity Shift After Becoming a Mum | Who You Are vs Who You Were

    In this conversation, Nikki & Soph discuss the challenges of parenting, including the impact of daylight savings on their energy levels, Nikki's decision to quit a job for family commitments, and the ongoing identity crisis that comes with motherhood. They share personal experiences of postpartum struggles, the difficulty of balancing exercise with parenting, and humorous messy moments, such as dealing with an ant infestation and the challenges of keeping a clean home. The conversation highlights the complexities of modern parenting and the shared experiences that come with it. Takeaways Daylight savings can significantly affect energy levels. Quitting a job can be a difficult yet necessary decision for family. Parenting often leads to an identity crisis as roles shift. Postpartum life can bring unexpected challenges and changes. Finding time for exercise is tough when balancing parenting and work. Messy moments are a common part of family life. It's important to share parenting struggles with others. Maintaining a clean home can be overwhelming with young children. Food rules in the house can be hard to enforce with kids. Parenting is a journey filled with ups and downs. Chapters 00:00 Surviving the Week: Daylight Savings and Fatigue 05:11 The Transformation: Life Changes After Kids 12:19 Messy Moments: Ant Infestations and Parenting Chaos

    25 min

  9. 10/14/2025

    EP 004: Solo Parenting Is Emotionally Exhausting | Sleep Deprivation, Control & Burnout

    In this conversation, the hosts discuss the challenges of solo parenting, the emotional toll it takes, and the practical aspects of managing children's toys and sleep routines. They share personal anecdotes about transitioning to bunk beds, the farewell of cube storage, and the ongoing struggles with sleep training. The conversation highlights the need for control in chaotic parenting situations and the emotional meltdowns that can arise from the pressures of parenting. Takeaways Solo parenting can be incredibly challenging and isolating. Cube storage provided a sense of organization that was hard to let go of. Transitioning to bunk beds can lead to unexpected challenges. Sleep training is a continuous journey with ups and downs. Emotional meltdowns often occur when control feels lost. Children's independence can lead to chaos and mess. Finding a balance between parenting and personal time is crucial. Communication with partners about parenting roles is essential. The need for emotional outlets is important for parents. Parenting requires flexibility and adaptability to changing circumstances. Chapters 00:00 Solo Parenting Challenges 06:01 The Transition to Bunk Beds 11:39 Sleep Training Struggles 19:19 The Quest for Control 26:19 Emotional Meltdowns and Breakdowns

    33 min

  10. 10/08/2025

    EP 003: Why Parenting Was Never Meant to Be Done Alone

    In this episode of Hot Messes, Big Visions, hosts Nikki and Sophia share their experiences as parents and entrepreneurs, discussing the chaos of balancing work and family life. They delve into the messy moments of parenting, the guilt associated with taking time off, and the importance of building a supportive community. The conversation highlights the challenges of postpartum life, the evolution of parenting perspectives, and the necessity of self-care for parents. Through their candid stories, they emphasise that parenting is a journey filled with ups and downs, and it's okay to seek help and support along the way.

    50 min

  11. 09/10/2025

    EP 002: Losing Yourself After Kids: Identity, Sleep Deprivation & Motherhood

    In this episode, Nikki & Soph discuss their experiences at a recent conference, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity for parents. They explore the challenges of balancing motherhood with personal identity, the realities of sleep deprivation, and the mental health struggles that come with parenting. The conversation is filled with humor and relatable messy moments, highlighting the ups and downs of raising children. Takeaways Inclusivity at conferences can attract a more diverse audience. Having childcare options at events can enhance participation. Motherhood often leads to a conflict between personal identity and parenting responsibilities. Sleep deprivation is a common struggle for parents, affecting mental clarity. Parenting is a journey filled with both love and challenges. Social media can create unrealistic expectations for mothers. It's normal to feel a loss of self after having children. Every parent has their own messy moments and struggles. The journey of parenting is ongoing and doesn't have a clear finish line. Humour is essential in navigating the chaos of family life. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Conference Experience 05:16 The Role of Children in Conferences 09:16 Balancing Motherhood and Personal Identity 12:58 Postnatal Mental Health and Sleep Deprivation 17:51 The Challenges of Parenting and Expectations 22:10 Messy Moments and Parenting Realities 29:48 The Importance of Self-Care

    30 min

  12. 07/31/2025

    EP 001: Why Parenting Feels So Chaotic (And Why You’re Not Failing)

    Summary In this episode of Hot Messes Big Visions, hosts Nikki and Sophia share their chaotic parenting experiences, discussing the messiness of family life, the importance of community support, and the challenges of balancing personal identity with motherhood. They reflect on their own parenting journeys, the need for breaks, and the joy of building a supportive village for parents. Takeaways Building your dream doesn't need to be polished. It's okay to ask for help and take breaks. Parenting is a constant struggle that requires adaptation. Community support is essential for parents. Messy moments are a part of real life parenting. You don't need to have it together to be going somewhere. Finding balance as a parent is crucial. The village concept helps alleviate parenting pressures. Parenting can be both rewarding and challenging. You're not alone in your parenting journey. Sound Bites "It's okay to ask for help." "It's a constant struggle." "You're not alone." Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Hot Messes Big Visions 11:31 The Reality of Parenting 18:40 Building a Supportive Community 34:40 The Reality of Parenting 46:17 The Importance of Self-Care

    24 min
  • 12 Episodes

About

For the career driven, the founders, the mums, and the makers building the village while still cleaning up snack crumbs and living on less than 4 hours sleep.

Information

  • Creator
    The Village Co.
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © The Village Co.
  • Show Website
    Hot Messes, Big Visions