09. Business, Motherhood and a CMV diagnosis: Lauren’s Story Behind the Smile

🎧 Episode SummaryIn this raw and heartfelt episode of Mum Mind. Unpacked, we sit down with the incredible Lauren Smedley — mum of two, founder of Bronte Co, and one of the strongest, most grounded women we know. Lauren shares her powerful story of navigating early motherhood while launching a successful kids' swimwear label, all while facing the unimaginable: the diagnosis of her youngest son, Logan, with congenital CMV — a virus that left him profoundly deaf.From sleepless nights and therapy appointments to late-night order packing and building a family-run business from the ground up, Lauren’s story is one of resilience, love, vulnerability, and doing what needs to be done — no matter how hard. This one will move you, inform you, and stay with you long after the episode ends.👩‍👦 About Our GuestLauren Smedley is a mum of two boys — Reid and Logan — and the founder of Bronte Co, a swimwear label designed with heart and purpose. She’s also a former PA who transitioned into entrepreneurship with the support of her husband and parents. Lauren brings candid reflections on motherhood, raising a child with special needs, and keeping a business — and her spirit — afloat during life’s toughest seasons.🗓 New Episodes on WednesdaysDon’t forget to follow, share, and leave a review to help more mums discover the podcast!🔗 Connect with us📸 Instagram: @mummindunpacked📧 Email: [email protected]🛍 Get in touch with Lauren or shop Bronte Co’s awesome rangeSupport Lauren’s amazing swimwear label created for everyday families:🌐 www.bronteco.com📸 Instagram: @bronte_co💬 If you or someone you know is navigating a diagnosis like CMV or raising a child with hearing loss, this episode may offer comfort, connection, and understanding.📚 For more information about CMV• CMV Awareness: cmv.org.au🤝 Thanks to Our Sponsors🌿 KineNatural, flushable, plastic-free body cloths for the whole family. Gentle on skin, tough on mess, kind to the planet.💸 Use code Mum10 for 10% off at kine.com.au📱 @kineaustralia🥗 JNR Food CoReady-made, dietitian-approved kids’ meals that are high in protein, low in sodium, preservative-free — and loved by kids!👀 Explore the full range: jnrfoodco.au🔔 A Gentle ReminderOur conversations are here to inform and support — not to replace professional medical or psychological advice. If you’re struggling, please reach out to one of these support services:• PANDA: 1300 726 306• Lifeline: 13 11 14🔍 KeywordsMotherhood, mums, special needs, CMV, diagnosis, NDIS, resilience, Bronte Co🙏 Thanks for ListeningIf this episode touched you, please share it with a friend or fellow mum. And if you're feeling generous, we’d love a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on your favourite podcast app!Until next time — motherhood is hard but you’re not alone. We see you.