Now What? Podcast

In this episode, Rachel sits down with Stephanie, the creator of The Divorce Diaries, who began documenting her divorce and court experience in real time from the US. Together they unpack what it’s really like to navigate a legal system when money, representation, and support feel out of reach, and the financial whiplash of going from being a stay-at-home mum to having to provide again almost overnight.Stephanie shares the turning points that made her leave, the layers of betrayal she uncovered, and why choosing to “settle” wasn’t giving up, it was a decision to step out of the chaos and protect her kids’ wellbeing. They talk co-parenting when communication is tense, how to stay grounded when things are done to derail your day, and the practical ways Stephanie rebuilt her strength through small daily acts of self-care, perspective, and boundaries.This is a candid conversation for anyone entering separation, facing court, or trying to rebuild a life that feels stable, safe, and yours again.Find Stephanie @stylewith.stephanie Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Amy didn’t set out to become a voice for single mums online. She started by sharing her running. Then she posted one honest video about single motherhood and it blew up, not because it was dramatic, but because it told the truth: stop feeling sorry for her. Her life is good. And 18 months ago, she was in the hardest place of her life.In this episode, Amy speaks candidly about the slow heartbreak of postpartum expectations not being met, the moment she realised she couldn’t stay, and the stigma she had to unlearn about what being a single mum means. She also shares what it was like growing up raised by a single mother herself, how that shaped her fear of repeating history, and why she now sees her choice to leave early as its own kind of cycle-breaking.There’s no sugar-coating the early months. Amy describes them as hell: moving constantly, sleep deprivation, living out of bags, and navigating a legal battle while trying to stay present for her son. She talks about the unexpected things that helped her heal, including community, friendship, and a relationship that showed her what respectful love can look like, even if the timing wasn’t right to keep it.The conversation goes deep into the parts of single motherhood that aren’t always said out loud: weekend triggers, watching families together, grieving the dream you had when you fell pregnant, and the ongoing ache of knowing your child didn’t choose this. It also explores identity, boundaries, and the conscious decision not to make your child your whole world, especially when you know the pressure that can put on a son.Amy shares what her co-parenting structure looks like, how she uses the little time she gets to refill her cup, and what she’d say to a newly single mum who feels like dreams and goals are a lifetime away.This episode is for the woman in the thick of it. The woman comparing her life to the families at cafes. The woman just trying to survive the day. It’s a reminder that single motherhood is brutally hard, but it can also be the making of someone. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

**Melbourne IVF fertility specialist Dr Daniel Lantsberg has offered the Now What community an exclusive discount for anyone in Melbourne considering becoming a solo mum by choice.They are offering half-price off the initial consultation — usually $400, reduced to $200 — for those who register via the link below.The initial consult is the most important first step, even if you’re only in the thinking stage. It gives you clarity on your fertility, your timelines, your options and the realistic pathway ahead, so you can make informed decisions without losing valuable time.If this is something you’ve been quietly considering, this is a practical place to begin.Leave your details to start your journey with Melbourne IVF:https://www.jotform.com/assign/260467361728059/260471128781054In this episode, Rachel sits down with Anna Riches (you may know her from Big Miracles) for an honest, reassuring conversation about becoming a solo mum by choice- and what people don’t tell you about the road to getting there.Anna takes us through the turning points that pushed her from “I’ve got time” to freezing her eggs, then choosing a donor, then diving into treatment with Dr Daniel Lantsberg — including multiple failed IUIs, IVF, a chemical pregnancy, a pregnancy loss, and the third transfer that finally brought River into her life.They talk money (because IVF isn’t optional-cost), the long, mandatory counselling and donor waitlist process, how she chose her donor, why she didn’t use a friend as a donor even when offered, and what it feels like when you’re the only adult at 4am with a crying baby and no one to tap in.It’s also a conversation about the emotional aftermath: the hormonal shock, the loneliness that hits in different seasons, the grief for your old life even when you got the life you wanted, and the non-negotiable need to protect your mental health - including building in paid help even if it means living lean.If you’re considering solo motherhood by choice, this episode cuts through the noise: start earlier than you think, expect it to take longer than you think, and don’t confuse fear with a “no.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The holiday season can be beautiful — and brutal — especially when you’re a single parent.In this end-of-year episode of Now What, Rachel speaks directly to the quiet, complicated realities that so many single mums carry through the festive period. The grief of waking up without your children on Christmas morning. The sting of moments you assumed were guaranteed. The comparison traps — to the other parent, to two-parent households, to families with bigger budgets, bigger holidays, bigger support systems.This conversation is an honest acknowledgement that Christmas doesn’t magically become easier just because time has passed. Whether it’s your first Christmas post-separation or your fifth, the feelings can still surface — and that doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong.Rachel explores how to hold both love and grief at the same time, how to release the pressure to “replicate” old traditions, and how to gently redefine what this season can look like now. She reminds us that children don’t care about dates on a calendar — they care about how they feel, how loved they are, and the moments we create with intention.This episode also speaks to the mums spending Christmas without their kids, offering permission to take up space, to create rituals that soothe rather than distract, and to honour your own experience without shame or self-blame.It’s a conversation about comparison being the thief of joy, about letting go of perfection, about creating magic within the reality you’re in — not the one you imagined. And about choosing, again and again, to feel the feelings without getting stuck in them.If this season feels tender, heavy, or quietly lonely — this episode is for you. You are not broken for finding it hard. You are human.Rachel closes the year with reflection, compassion, and a reminder that you get to decide what comes next.Wishing you a gentle, intentional holiday period — however it looks for you.Now What will be back in your ears in January 2026. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you’ve ever had the quiet thought — “Could I become a solo mum by choice?” — this episode is a must-listen.In this powerful and deeply informative conversation, I sit down with Dr Daniel Lansberg, Fertility Specialist at Melbourne IVF and one of the leading experts in fertility care (and known from the TV series Big Miracles). Together, we walk through the entire journey of becoming a Solo Mum by Choice — from the very first “what if?” all the way to what the path can look like in practice.Dr Lansberg breaks down every step with clarity and compassion, covering:What to do if you’re just starting to think about solo motherhoodHow to understand your fertility pictureThe full medical process from first appointment → donor selection → treatmentEgg freezing — when to consider it, who it’s right for, and what to expectCommon fears and emotional hurdles women experienceUnexpected things that can come up along the wayCosts, timelines, preparation, and lifestyle factorsHow to make an informed, empowered decision about your next chapterWhether you’re actively planning, quietly curious, or supporting someone on this path, this episode will leave you feeling informed, grounded, and less alone in the process.This episode is part of our Solo Mum by Choice Mini-Series, designed to bring clarity and confidence to any woman navigating this possibility.Sponsored by Melbourne IVFLearn more about Melbourne IVF and book a consultation:https://www.mivf.com.au/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode I’m joined by Fiona, the founder of Mama Matters, for a deeply grounding conversation about what it really means to be a good enough parent.We unpack the origins of the term, why it’s become such an important reframe for modern parents, and how releasing the pressure to be “perfect” can radically transform the way we show up for our kids — especially when we’re parenting on our own.Fiona breaks down how good enough parenting supports single mums through overwhelm, decision fatigue, guilt, and the invisible load, offering practical ways to soften the self-criticism and hold more compassion for ourselves in the hardest seasons.We also dive into Circle of Security, the attachment-based framework Fiona teaches, exploring how understanding our child’s emotional needs — and the patterns we bring from our own upbringing — can strengthen connection, reduce conflict, and create more ease in the everyday moments.This is an episode for anyone craving reassurance, clarity, and a kinder way to navigate the complexities of solo parenting. You’ll walk away feeling steadier, more supported, and better equipped to trust yourself.Follow Us:Rachel: @rachel.maksimovicFiona: @mamamatters.auNow What Podcast: @nowwhat.podcastMama Matters website: https://www.mamamatters.com.au/Circle of Security program: https://www.mamamatters.com.au/circle-of-security-1 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this short introductory episode, Rachel shares the story behind the evolution from Mothering On My Own to Now What?.This podcast has always held space for the realities of single motherhood - the heartbreak, the rebuilding, the identity shifts, the co-parenting dynamics, the dating again, the courage it takes to start over. But as every single mother knows, the journey doesn’t really end once the dust settles. It changes shape. It stretches you. It asks new questions at every turn.Now What? reflects that evolution. It’s still the same honest, grounded conversations you’ve come to expect - just expanded to honour everything that happens when a family changes shape, and everything that unfolds in the chapters that come after.In this mini episode, Rachel walks through why the name felt right, what this shift means for the stories ahead, and how the podcast will continue to grow with you, no matter where you are on your journey.If you’ve ever found yourself standing in a moment you didn’t plan for, wondering what comes next - you’re in the right place. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Mothering On My Own, Rachel is joined by financial advisor and coach Rebecca Pritchard for a real and relatable chat about money—because let’s be honest, it can feel super overwhelming, especially when you’re doing life solo. Rebecca breaks down some of the biggest fears and myths around personal finance, particularly for single or separated women, and shares how shifting your mindset can completely change how you manage money. We talk about building confidence with your finances, learning the basics (without the jargon), and taking small, practical steps toward feeling more in control. If you're in the middle of a financial shake-up or just want to feel more empowered with your money, this one's for you.FOLLOW US:Instagram:Podcast: @motheringonmyown.podcastRach: @rachel.maksimovicRebecca: @rfpritch and @risingtidefs Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Rachel sit down with Julia Allen—one of Australia’s leading sexologists—for a real, down-to-earth chat about all things intimacy, relationships, and sex. Julia opens up about her own journey and shares loads of wisdom from her work helping people reconnect with themselves and each other.We talk about how easy it is to lose that spark in the thick of parenting, the biggest mistakes couples make when it comes to intimacy, and how to keep (or rediscover) connection—even when you're exhausted, juggling solo parenting, or trying to date with very little time (or energy!).It’s an honest, empowering convo full of takeaways for anyone wanting to feel more connected—to themselves, their partner, or a future one. FOLLOW US:Instagram:Podcast: @motheringonmyown.podcastRach: @rachel.maksimovicJuliet: @juliet_allen Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I chat with Hannah Keys about her journey from fashion creator and thrifter to navigating life as a single mum. We dive deep into co-parenting—Hannah shares how she’s learned to be okay with time away from her kids and how she’s reframed that space as something she honours, so her children get to see a thriving, happy mum. We also talk about the emotional rollercoaster of separation, modern relationships, and how grief can be a catalyst for growth. It’s a real, heartfelt conversation about resilience, self-love, and finding joy in the messiness of life and parenting.FOLLOW US:Instagram:Podcast: @motheringonmyown.podcastRach: @rachel.maksimovicHannah: @hannahrosekeys Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode of Mothering On My Own, we’re gifting you a moment to pause. Charlotte Terray, Calm State kinesiologist, guides us through a gentle meditation created especially for mothers—to help you come back to yourself, reconnect with your inner calm, and create space to just be. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or simply craving a moment of quiet, this is your invitation to breathe, reset, and return to your day feeling more grounded—both as a mother and as you.Work with Charlotte (Calm State Kinesiology):Charlotte Terray: https://calmstate.co/workwithcharlotteCode: MOMO20 for $20 off, *Charlotte will be going on her Maternity leave at the end of August, so make sure to book in before then. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this conversation, Rachel Maksimovic and Charlotte, a trauma-informed kinesiologist, explore the transformative power of kinesiology in healing emotional and physical ailments. They discuss the importance of understanding the nervous system, the impact of trauma on the body, and how kinesiology can help individuals reconnect with their bodies and release stored stress. The conversation delves into the unique challenges faced by mothers, particularly single mothers, and emphasises the significance of self-responsibility in the healing process. Rachel has worked closely with Charlotte over the last 12 months and they share more about her own personal challenges, what has come up for Rachel in her own emotional blocks and how Kinesiology was able to help her navigate this time.Work with Charlotte (Calm State Kinesiology):Charlotte Terray: https://calmstate.co/workwithcharlotteCode: MOMO20 for $20 off, *Charlotte will be going on her Maternity leave at the end of August, so make sure to book in before then. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Mothering on My Own, Rachel sit down with Montana Lower to talk all things love, healing, dating, and solo motherhood. We get real about the emotional rollercoaster of finding yourself post-separation, the unexpected complexities of dating as a single mum, and the societal expectations that often leave us feeling like we can’t be sexy, desirable, or free while also being devoted mothers. Rachel & Montana share openly about navigating the grief of not having another child yet, to the deeply healing relationships they are both now in, and how building healthy independence, strong boundaries, and emotional safety has changed everything. We also unpack the guilt and judgment that can come with dating as a solo parent, how motherhood can deepen our connection to our bodies and pleasure, and why being loved (and yes, f*cked properly!) is a gift not just for us—but for our kids too. This is one of those expansive, raw, laugh-out-loud and deeply validating conversations that reminds you how powerful, complex, and worthy we are as women and mothers. Whether you’re single, dating, or redefining what family looks like for you—this one will land deep. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this raw and reflective episode, I sit down with Montana Lower to unpack the emotional journey of rebuilding life after a family unit break up—especially when you’re parenting on your own. We talk about growing up without strong relationship models, the beliefs we carry into motherhood, and what it really takes to come out of the haze after heartbreak. She shares her experience of living in community with other women, navigating identity loss, doing the emotional work, and slowly learning to feel whole again. It’s an honest, vulnerable conversation about grief, growth, and finding a way forward—bit by bit.This episode is Part 1 of Montana's journey so make sure you subscribe for next weeks Part 2 episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this solo episode, Rachel dives into one of the most common yet rarely spoken about experiences in solo motherhood — the feeling of being stuck. Whether it’s emotional, mental, financial, or just that nagging sense that you’re not where you thought you’d be, this episode offers practical, empowering guidance to help you understand and gently work through it.Rachel unpacks why feeling stuck isn’t actually a feeling — it’s a thought pattern — and shares how journaling can be a powerful, affordable tool to get out of your own head and back into momentum. You’ll be guided through key mindset reframes, relatable examples from the single mum journey, and a set of powerful journal prompts to help you gain momentum again.Journal Prompts from the Episode:1. Why do I feel stuck?Start with these types of prompts so we can dig into exactly the concept above and figure out where the disconnect is starting:•What is the pattern in your life you are most frustrated by? What do you think this pattern means about you?•What areas in your life do you feel like you have no control over or feel powerless to change? If you are not able to affect this, who do you feel like is in control or has the power to change things?•What do you need to let go of that you might be holding on to?•How might you have been hiding or avoiding something you know you need to address but are hesitant or scared to face?2. What do I want instead?These prompts are going to shift your attention to the desired state so you can begin identifying what to do next (take that power back gal!):•What do you want for your life that you might have been scared, ashamed or felt was greedy to want?•Who do you admire? What about them do you admire? If you could select pieces of their life that you’d copy+paste in to yours what would they be?•Who are you envious or jealous of? What are you drawn to about them? If you could select pieces of their life that you’d copy+paste in to yours what would they be?•If you had a magic time machine and could wake up tomorrow inside of your life a year from now and be living your absolute dream, what would it look like? What your day would look like at 6a, 9a, 12p 3p, 6p and 9p.-Many people have an idea of the logistics of their dream life - what kind of house they’d be living in, their relationships status, and how much money they’d be making - but they haven’t often considered what the experience of that life will be in between their ears. So while your external circumstances might change, the thoughts inside your head wont! A perfect example of why mindset and thought work is THE missing piece for many of us.3. How to start getting "unstuck":Taking the insights gained from the previous section, we’re now going to shift our focus to the future. These prompts are going to focus you in on what is within your control and to zero in on the actions you want to take next to create change:•What stops me from having the thoughts (and eventually the beliefs) about myself that I want?•If you feel like you have amassed evidence that is counter to the beliefs that you want to have, what evidence might have you accidentally overlooked that would support your desired thoughts? (We are very selective in our memory and biased in our narration of our lives!) If you had to look for it, what proof could you find that you can have the thoughts you’d like about yourselves?•Considering the thoughts of those I admire, envy or dream life me, what could I change about my schedule that would make it easier for me to have those thoughts? What could I change about my logistics or surroundings to have those thoughts? What could I change about how I take care of myself to have those thoughts?FOLLOW US:Instagram:Podcast: @motheringonmyown.podcastRach: @rachel.maksimovic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

**Trigger warning, this episode does discuss leaving a DV relationship- please press pause and come back to it when you are ready. This guest also has chosen to stay anonymous for this reason.In this raw and honest conversation, this guest shares her journey of becoming a solo mother after leaving a toxic and abusive relationship. She opens up about the emotional toll of isolation, the grief and resentment that often follow separation, and the difficulty of finding joy in early motherhood.Together, this guest and Rachel explore the mental load of parenting alone, the complexities of dating as a solo mum, and the deep longing for peace and connection. They reflect on the importance of supportive family, the power of community, and the need to speak openly about the harder parts of motherhood.This episode is a reminder that while the road can be lonely, there is strength in sharing our stories—and hope in knowing we're not alone. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Anissa Cavallo from Eda Property Group opens up about her journey from hitting financial rock bottom as a single mum to building a successful career as a property investor. We chat about why financial independence matters so much, how outdated gender roles can hold us back, and why financial literacy is a game-changer for women. Anissa shares how anyone can start planning to invest in their property, the difference between buying your home to live in Vs buying as an investment and how women of any income can get into the property market.Anissa also shares some powerful mindset shifts, the role of community, and how understanding passive income helped her turn things around. Plus, she offers down-to-earth advice for women navigating divorce, new relationships, and those tricky money conversations.FOLLOW US:Instagram:Podcast: @motheringonmyown.podcastRach: @rachel.maksimovicAnissa: @edapropertygrouphttps://edaproperty.com.au/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this heartfelt and insightful episode, Rachel sits down with Hayley to explore the layered realities of solo motherhood in Bali. Together, they unpack the cultural nuances of raising a child in a foreign country, the emotional and practical challenges of parenting alone, and the freedom and responsibility that come with carving out a life on your own terms.Hayley opens up about her journey as a single mother — from the mental resilience it demands, to the vital role her mother and local community play in her support system. She also shares the story behind launching her children's clothing brand and what it’s really like to balance business, motherhood, and personal growth in such a unique setting.The conversation also touches on the transient nature of friendships in Bali, the complexities of dating as a single mum, and what it means to seek a partner who truly fits into an already full and evolving life. It's a raw, reflective, and empowering chat about choosing a different path, growing through it, and redefining what home, family, and success can look like.FOLLOW US:Instagram:Podcast: @motheringonmyown.podcastRach: @rachel.maksimovicHayley: @foigyyBanks Basics: @banks_basics Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this honest and heartfelt episode of Mothering on My Own, Rachel sits down with her friend to explore the layered experience of single motherhood—especially around emotionally loaded times like Mother’s Day. Together, they discuss the emotional toll and practical challenges of raising kids solo, the value of female friendships as a lifeline, and the often unspoken financial pressures single mums face.They also dive into the complex world of dating as a single parent—navigating guilt, vulnerability, and self-worth, while trying to remain open to love. Throughout the episode, they reflect on how creativity, self-discovery, and reclaiming joy are essential tools for surviving and thriving in single motherhood.FOLLOW US:Instagram:Podcast: @motheringonmyown.podcastRach: @rachel.maksimovicMaggie: @maggiekellywriterSelfhelped Pod: @selfhelpedpod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this warm and honest chat, educator and parenting counselor Lael Stone joins Rachel to unpack the messy, beautiful reality of parenting — especially for single mums. They dive into everything from emotional wellbeing and trusting your parenting instincts to navigating co-parenting and supporting kids through separation. Lael shares practical tips on talking about big feelings, modelling healthy emotional responses, and recognising the unseen struggles so many parents face. Together, Lael and Rachel explore how childhood shapes us, how relationships evolve over time, and how our kids often become our greatest teachers. It’s a heartfelt conversation about staying connected, finding joy, and showing up consciously — even when it’s hard.FOLLOW US:Instagram:Podcast: @motheringonmyown.podcastRach: @rachel.maksimovicLael: @laelstone Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.