Episode 18 - Mum guilt

In this heartfelt episode of the Divorced AF Podcast, Audrey takes on the all-too-familiar topic of “mum guilt”—the emotional weight many mothers carry, whether they’re working, staying at home, or somewhere in between. Audrey shares real-life reflections, including her own recent experiences with guilt around traveling, parenting, and giving herself permission to grow. She invites listeners to reframe guilt, stop blaming themselves for their children's emotions, and lean into the joy of building a new normal—one that honors both their kids and their own personal fulfillment.

Mum Guilt and Its Impact on Parenting

Audrey opens the episode by acknowledging that mum guilt doesn’t discriminate—it affects all mothers. She speaks to the inner tension working moms feel about missing time with their kids, and stay-at-home moms feel about needing space. Through a personal story about yelling at her kids, she highlights how quickly guilt sets in and how tough it can be to let go.

Audrey’s Upcoming Trip to Toronto

With transparency and humor, Audrey shares her plans to attend a five-night event in Toronto and the guilt that initially surfaced around leaving her kids. She walks through how her children are independent and capable, and how she’s reframing this trip as an example of leadership, trust, and growth—for both her and her kids.

Choosing Growth and Joy

Audrey makes a compelling case for mothers to choose joy, even if it means stepping away for a bit. Sharing a touching conversation with her oldest son, she emphasizes how children benefit from seeing their mothers thrive. Her message is clear: growing as a woman makes you a better mother.

Letting Go of Guilt and Embracing Fulfillment

Audrey challenges mothers to release guilt around their personal choices—whether it’s working, traveling, or simply taking a break. She reminds listeners that what matters most is that choices are made with joy, not obligation. Independence in kids, she says, is a gift that comes from trust and modeling self-respect.

Stop Blaming Divorce for Everything

Audrey shares a client story about blaming divorce for a child’s emotional reactions. She pushes back on the idea that all big feelings stem from separation, encouraging mothers to allow kids to feel what they need to feel—and to stop holding themselves solely responsible for those emotions.

Survival Mode to New Normal

Reflecting on life post-divorce, Audrey talks about the shift from survival mode to building a new normal. She urges mothers to see the progress they’ve made, recognize their strength, and celebrate the life they’re creating—not just for their children, but for themselves too.

Supporting Women Through All Seasons

Audrey closes with gratitude, noting how her words resonate not just with divorced women, but with married mothers too. She celebrates the community growing around the podcast and encourages women to continue lifting each other up, one story at a time.

I want you to hear this: You are doing a great job. Mum guilt is loud, but your joy, your growth, and your self-trust can be louder. I’ve been there—questioning, second-guessing, worrying I’m not enough. But the truth is, when you choose yourself with love, you show your kids how to do the same. Whether you're divorced, married, or figuring it all out, I see you. Thank you for listening and for sharing this space with me. If this episode helped you, pass it on to a mama who needs to hear that she's not alone. We're in this together.

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✨ You don’t have to be perfect—you just have to be present. ✨

Connect with Audrey

• Instagram: @iamaudreyalice
• Email: [email protected]
• Check out the DAF E-store!
• Website: DAF Podcast

Giving Credit To My Tribe

• Music created and composed by my son, Hugo
• This podcast is produced by Jen, my Unicorn!

Be a Guest on the Show

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This is more than a podcast—it’s a movement. Welcome to Divorced AF, where transformation begins.

Thank you for listening to today’s episode of Divorced AF with Audrey! If you found this episode helpful, please share it with another woman who could use some support on her journey. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review to help us reach more incredible women like you. Remember, Sister, your divorce was just the beginning, and the best is yet to come. Until next time!