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.
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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