E27 featuring Lucy Heavens: is there a right time to have kids?

In this episode of the Miracle Working Mums podcast I chat to Lucy Heavens about whether there is ever a 'right time' to have kids and the differences she experienced of being a teen mum versus a mum a second time twelve years later. Lucy is VP of Marketing at Salv and a mother of two. She discusses the support she received from a young mums group and the importance of inclusion. Lucy also talks about her career progression and the pressure she felt to conform to societal expectations. She reflects on the struggles and pressure she experienced with her second child and the impact of information overload on parenting decisions. In this conversation, Lucy emphasizes the importance of building employee wellness and benefits around the specific needs of parents. Lucy also highlights the value of lived experience and the benefits of having individuals with diverse backgrounds and perspectives involved in decision-making processes.

• Support and inclusion are crucial for young mums to navigate the challenges of motherhood.
• Societal expectations and judgment can impact a young mum's self-esteem and sense of identity.
• Curiosity and asking for help are essential for personal and professional growth.
• There is no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting, and it's important to trust your instincts and do what feels right for you and your family. Personalized support is crucial for working parents, as each individual and family has unique needs and circumstances.
• Building employee wellness and benefits around the specific needs of parents can greatly enhance their experience in the workplace.
• Including individuals with lived experience in decision-making processes can lead to more effective and inclusive support for parents.
• Listening to employees and asking them what they want is essential for providing meaningful support and addressing their needs.
• Organizations should strive to remove barriers for working parents and create an equitable environment that supports their professional and personal lives.
• Having a support network in place is important for working parents, as it provides emotional and practical assistance during challenging times.