Working moms are juggling more than meets the eye — and Vanessa Raphaely knows this firsthand. In this episode, Vanessa opens up about the invisible labour women carry daily, the societal expectations that rarely change, and the unique pressures working mothers face in South Africa’s challenging economic climate.

From the rise of entrepreneurship to navigating ageism and outdated corporate policies, Vanessa shares candid insights on resilience, community support, and how we can advocate for better workplace cultures.

If you’re a working mom striving to balance career and family, or simply want to understand the complexities working women face today, this conversation is for you.

FOLLOW MOMents for more honest, empowering stories for working moms

Follow us on social media for more inspiration and community:

Instagram: @moments_omnimedia

Facebook: MOMents Omnimedia

TikTok: @moments_omnimedia

🎧 Listen on your favourite platform:

YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Podcasts

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 — Introduction: Madge sets the stage on outdated corporate rules affecting working parents

01:28 — Meet Vanessa Raphaely: Background and her initiative “The Village” for mothers

02:11 — Modern Motherhood Paradox: Balancing work and parenting for 25 years

03:12 — Historical Context: How women’s workforce roles have evolved — and still face hurdles

04:59 — Corporate Challenges: Why businesses struggle with work-life balance policies

06:45 — Rise of Entrepreneurship: How moms are pivoting around corporate limitations

07:02 — The Hustle Mentality: Mothers finding new ways to balance family and career

09:51 — Resilience Spirit: Vanessa on perseverance amid South Africa’s economic struggles

11:04 — Ageism in Employment: The overlooked potential of women in their 50s and 60s

12:17 — Navigating Corporate Norms: Strategies for older working women

20:29 — Building Community: The power of collective advocacy for workplace change

22:37 — Supporting Women Leaders: How women in management can uplift others

24:23 — Kindness & Community: Final thoughts on compassion in work and life

24:40 — Final Five Questions: A candid rapid-fire segment with Vanessa

28:30 — Sibling Relationships: Hopes for children’s lifelong support and forgiveness

29:21 — Individual Connections: The importance of unique time with each child

30:51 — Parenting Reflection: Using self-reflection to guide decisions and avoid regrets

32:13 — Redefining Success: Closing thoughts on balancing motherhood and professional life