Balancing the Books and the Babies: One Mum’s Path to Flexibility

The Nap Time Sessions

What happens when a successful career in finance no longer fits the life you’re trying to build as a mum? In this episode of The Naptime Sessions, I chat to Marianne Dadd - accountant, mum, and all-round powerhouse – about her journey from corporate life to self-employment, and what it really takes to find balance between motherhood and meaningful work.

Marianne speaks candidly about the identity shift that came with becoming a mum, and how it pushed her to reassess everything she thought she wanted from her career. From the pressure of trying to ‘do it all’ to the judgement mums often face when making career choices, this is a real and relatable conversation for anyone standing at a similar crossroads.

We talk about the flexibility self-employment can offer, but also the fears and uncertainties that come with it – especially when the world doesn’t always recognise the immense value of what mums bring to the table. Marianne shares practical advice for those considering self-employment, along with a healthy dose of encouragement to trust your instincts, back yourself, and know your worth.

Here’s what we cover:

• The shift in identity and priorities that comes with becoming a mum
• Why Marianne chose to leave a successful finance career and go self-employed
• The challenges and rewards of working for yourself as a parent
• How societal pressure and judgement can affect mums’ career choices
• The untapped potential of mothers in the workforce
• Why confidence and clarity of purpose are key when considering self-employment
• Marianne’s tips for building a supportive work-life balance
• Why the leap into self-employment doesn’t have to be all or nothing
• Embracing the messy, non-linear paths that motherhood and careers can take

Marianne’s journey is an inspiring reminder that you don’t have to fit the mould to be successful – and that choosing a path that works for you and your family is more than enough.

Resources

Want to connect with Marianne or MD Accounting? You can find her over on her website

For more encouragement and honest conversations about motherhood, follow me over on Instagram or explore the blog.

Enjoyed This Episode?

If Marianne’s story gave you that little boost of courage you needed, I’d love to hear from you. Send me a message on Instagram or share this episode with another mum who’s thinking about taking the leap, and don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review – it means the world.