ME + MOTHERHOOD with Benita Bensch

50. Blending Motherhood and Entrepreneurship

For this, my 50th episode, I'm sharing my lessons on blending motherhood and entrepreneurship. From the start of TTC (trying to conceive), going through IVF, the newborn and toddler days and now the school years, motherhood and business have gone hand-in-hand for me.This journey has shaped me in ways I never expected, teaching me lessons that go far beyond business strategies or parenting techniques. I’d love to share with you some of the insights I’ve gained from navigating this blend (not balance) of motherhood and entrepreneurship over the years. 1. Know Your Values - Initially, I thought I needed to compartmentalise these roles, but I've learned that when your values are clear, decisions flow more naturally. It's about recognising what truly matters and letting that guide your choices, even if they seem conflicted.2. Understanding Different Energies - Work often provides immediate satisfaction and clear outcomes, while motherhood is more nuanced and complex. Acknowledging this difference has helped me approach each role with more awareness and intention.3. Embracing Support - One of the most profound lessons for me has been understanding that seeking support isn't a sign of weakness - it's essential for growth. This realisation didn't come easily, but it's transformed how I approach both roles.4. Honouring Multiple Passions - Rather than seeing this as a lack of focus, I've learned to embrace it as a strength that brings depth to both my parenting and entrepreneurial endeavours.5. Listening to Your Body - The physical demands of motherhood and business are real. Learning to recognise and respect our body's signals isn't just beneficial - it's crucial. 6. Finding Natural Rhythms - It's not about forcing a perfect schedule, but rather finding flows that honour everyone's needs while moving your business forward.7. Leading with Strengths - The skills we develop as mothers often enhance our business capabilities, and vice versa. It's about acknowledging these strengths and allowing them to serve us in both areas.8. Building Meaningful Support Networks - The importance of having people who understand this journey cannot be overstated. 9. Let Go of Mum Guilt - The weight of mum guilt can be particularly heavy when building a business. Let it go, but also lean in and listen to what it’s saying. 10. Embracing Creative Evolution - Creativity flows differently in different seasons of life. I'd love to hear about your experiences - what lessons have you learned along the way? Episodes Mentioned:11. Karen Brook On Consciously Creating, And Ditching Mum Guilt39. How to Make Time for CreativityFind free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.comLet’s meet: Book a discovery call with me Subscribe: Join my mailing list Website: http://www.benitabensch.com Freebie: Affirmation Email Series Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/benitabensch Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/benitabensch This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit benitabensch.substack.com

49. What I'm Learning Raising Boys

I was asked recently what it's like raising four boys. It definitely got me thinking.They’re about to celebrate their birthdays in the next six weeks – the twins will turn nine, our eldest is almost 11, and our youngest will be seven. And while there’s a bit of rough-and-tumble going on that usually comes with the territory, raising sons has been an eye-opening experience and completely different to what I expected. Today, I’m sharing the lessons I’ve learnt, ways I’ve adapted to the unexpected and what I hope to be instilling in my boys as they grow.I'll take you through my experiences of:  - Releasing expectations- Nurturing individuality- Understanding physical play- The power of attention- Awareness of body image- The need for good role models- Fostering emotional language- Challenging gender normsThese lessons really just skim the surface. I’m not perfect, and I don’t have all the answers. But I'm continuously learning, and eager to hear from you too. What are your experiences? Please drop me a message or an email – I’d love to discuss the incredible journey of raising boys with you!Facebook Group: Support for Women in Family Farming: Succession & Other ChallengesFind free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.comLet’s meet: Book a discovery call with me Subscribe: Join my mailing list Website: http://www.benitabensch.com Freebie: Affirmation Email Series Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/benitabensch Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/benitabensch This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit benitabensch.substack.com

48. My Top 5 Lessons from Navigating Big Change and Reinvention

As we step into 2025, my life has been swirling with change – not just with a new home, but with a shift in my career as well. Recently, my family and I embarked on a significant move that upended our surroundings and challenged us to settle into a new rhythm. Alongside the chaos of relocating, I’ve also closed a chapter as an accountability coach with the Farm Owners Academy, leaving me with a clean slate to explore new ventures. As I reflect on this journey of shifting landscapes, I want to share with you the top five lessons I’ve learned about navigating big change, the art of surrender and how reinvention has shaped me. Perhaps these will offer some guidance or comfort if you too find yourself swirling in the waves of life's transitions.We'll explore:1. Progress Over Perfection2. Honour and Communicate Your Needs3. Comparison is the Thief of Joy4. A Shift in Energy is Growth5. Honour What You LoveNavigating big changes in life can be daunting, but it’s within these shifts that we find opportunities for reinvention and self-discovery. My hope is that you too, will find the courage to step forward, surrender to the flow and embrace change with a reinvigorated spirit. Remember, the magic lies not in having everything perfectly aligned, but in the beautiful journey of becoming.Facebook Group: Support for Women in Family Farming: Succession & Other ChallengesFind free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.comLet’s meet: Book a discovery call with me Subscribe: Join my mailing list Website: http://www.benitabensch.com Freebie: Affirmation Email Series Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/benitabensch Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/benitabensch This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit benitabensch.substack.com

47. School Holiday Survival And 2025 Goal Setting

I find myself in the thick of school holidays and I imagine many of you, much like myself, are navigating the highs and lows that accompany this somewhat haphazard time of year. Whether you have kids at home from primary school, kindy, daycare, or even boarding school, the change in routine can feel both liberating and overwhelming. Some days, it feels like we’re swimming in flexibility and fun, and other days, it feels as if our nerves are hanging by a thread.It’s perfectly natural to experience a spectrum of feelings during the holidays. Some parents cherish every moment, while others find it a challenge—or perhaps you’re like me, somewhere in the middle. In this episode I take you through a few strategies that have helped me manage the holiday hustle with my sanity intact.I think it’s important to remind yourself during this time that every parent’s journey through the holidays is unique. Allow yourself the grace to navigate these times in a way that best suits you and your family. If you feel like you need additional support to set your goals for 2025, I’ve created a comprehensive workbook available to you—just reach out via social media or email, and I’ll be glad to send it over.Sending you love and wishes for beautiful, joyous holiday moments with your little ones. Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.comLet’s meet: Book a discovery call with me Subscribe: Join my mailing list Website: http://www.benitabensch.com Freebie: Affirmation Email Series Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/benitabensch Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/benitabensch This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit benitabensch.substack.com

46. My Goals For 2025

As we usher in 2025, I find myself deeply reflective and excited about the year ahead. Whether you celebrated New Year's Eve by turning in early or dancing the night away, I hope your festivities were wonderful. I’m writing this with a sense of fresh beginnings and anticipation, and I wanted to share some of the goals I've set for this year. Embracing New BeginningsAs many of you know from previous episodes, we have embarked on a huge transition. After moving from the border town of Goondiwindi in Queensland to our new home in the Echuca Moama region, we are ready to begin this exciting new chapter. Personal Growth and StabilityThis year, I am committed to slowing down and fostering stability within our family. It's been a whirlwind past few years, filled with big decisions and changes, from leaving our family farm to moving towns and schools. My aim in 2025 is to pause, reflect, and appreciate the journey. Additionally, I am focusing on health and well-being. I've encountered some unexpected health challenges in the past 18 months, which have served as a reminder to care for my body and mind. Slowing down not only feels essential but vital for maintaining a balanced lifestyle. Work and PlayMy approach to work is undergoing a transformation in 2025. I've temporarily paused my coaching programs, desiring the headspace to focus on our move and settling in. Yet, I'm thrilled about leaning into my passion for writing in 2025. I plan to make writing my primary focus, while dedicating, I think at this stage, approx. one day a week to coaching and consulting. I'm especially excited about working on my upcoming non-fiction book centred around motherhood, and embarking on a children's book series as well.The Road AheadWhile my goals for 2025 might seem loosely defined, they’re driven by an intention to live slower and more intentionally. I’m eager to witness what life unfolds when I maintain a high vibration and clarity in my thoughts and actions. I invite you to join me in reflecting on your own ambitions for the year. What are your goals for 2025? Is there a word that encapsulates your hopes and intentions? Listen in to find out what mine is!Find free printable affirmations and affirmation phone wallpaper graphics from RESOURCES at www.benitabensch.comLet’s meet: Book a discovery call with me Subscribe: Join my mailing list Website: http://www.benitabensch.com Freebie: Affirmation Email Series Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/benitabensch Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/benitabensch This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit benitabensch.substack.com