Q&A’s From the Village

We switched things up with a listener Q&A! Renee and Olivia answer your Instagram questions — from whether after-birth contractions feel worse the second time, to the hardest parts of going from one to two kids, how to keep a toddler occupied while breastfeeding, getting out the door with a “selective hearing” toddler, and the messy juggle of returning to work. With humour and honesty, they share real day-in-the-life rhythms, small hacks that make big differences, and why repair beats perfection when we inevitably snap. It’s a loving reminder that the season is fleeting, the village matters, and you’re never doing it alone.

What to Expect in This Episode:After-birth contractions can feel stronger with subsequent births (experiences vary).Time is the toughest part of going from one to two — for kids, partners and yourself.Early weeks are logistics heavy; routine returns and outings get easier with practice.Day-in-the-life: park/library runs, nap overlaps, bath play, and flexible evenings.Breastfeeding a newborn with a toddler around: simple set-ups and (sometimes) screen time.Leaving the house: get low, make eye contact, offer two choices, keep it playful.Gentle bribery (hello babychinos and lollipops) can smooth transitions.Freezer back-ups and “combine the chaos” dinners with friends save sanity.Returning to work is individual; release perfection and prioritise repair over “perfect” days.Doubt and snapping happen — apologise, reconnect, and keep going.

Things We Mention:

• ​Low-stimulation kids’ picks: Snail and the Whale, Zog (ABC iview; also on Stan for downloads)
• ​Toddler entertainment: sensory/activity boxes, magnet tiles, simple pre-set play scenes
• ​Music/TV: The Wiggles (used intentionally and in short bursts)
• ​Bribes/treats: babychinos, FUNDAY sweets lollipops for travel/transitions
• ​Household helpers: whiteboard on the fridge for reminders; Koala Eco for gentler cleaning
• ​Meals & freezer staples: Made For Mothers (Sri Lankan chicken curry), Le Purée purées, backup lamb cutlets, meatballs, frozen veg
• ​Practical parenting tips: “choices over commands,” prep outfits the night before, carrier at witching hour

Connect with Mum Era Podcast Email: ⁠[e-mail]⁠ Website: ⁠mumerapodcast.com ⁠

Instagram: ⁠mumerapodcast⁠

Connect with Renee: Instagram: ⁠@reneebargh⁠

Connect with Olivia: Instagram: ⁠@oliviajdavies⁠