Parenting in Rural Australia: Motherland with Steph Trethewey

In this episode of Let's Reconnect, psychologist Breanna Jayne Sada speaks with Stephanie Trethewey, founder and CEO of Motherland Australia, about the unique realities of raising children in regional and rural Australia.Stephanie shares her own journey from city journalist to rural mum and explains why she founded Motherland, a national charity supporting rural mothers experiencing isolation and mental health challenges.Together, they explore the hidden pressures country families face, from limited access to healthcare, childcare and education, to the emotional impact of farming life, succession planning and natural disasters. They also discuss why rural communities demonstrate remarkable strength, while challenging the idea that people should simply be labelled "resilient."The conversation also explores children's education, boarding schools, social media, community connection, parenting in remote Australia and what every Australian can learn from country families about raising connected, capable and resilient children.Whether you live in the city or on the land, this episode offers valuable insights into parenting, mental health and the importance of community.In this episode we discuss:The hidden realities of parenting in rural and regional AustraliaWhy Stephanie founded Motherland AustraliaMaternal isolation and the importance of building a villageAccess to psychologists, childcare and health services in remote communitiesRural mental health and barriers to seeking supportWhy "resilience" isn't always the right wordRaising children with more independence and connection to natureBoarding school, distance education and unique schooling challengesSocial media, technology and connection for country kidsSuccession planning and the pressures facing farming familiesPractical ways all Australians can better support rural communitiesWhy early help-seeking can change mental health outcomesResourcesMotherland AustraliaFatherland Australia - PodcastIf you or someone you know needs support, contact:Lifeline – 13 11 14Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800In an emergency, call 000.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review and share it with another parent. Every share helps us continue important conversations that strengthen families and support children's wellbeing.Let's Reconnect next episode. In the meantime, subscribe and follow our podcast and socials @breanna.jayne_psych @letsreconnect_pod. If you or your child would like to write in with a question or story, or you’d like to be a guest advocating for the needs of children and young people, please reach out.Disclaimer:The information in this podcast is general and not a substitute for individual clinical advice or treatment. While I am a registered psychologist, I am not providing personalised guidance here. Every child and family is different, and what’s discussed may not suit your situation.If you have concerns, please seek support from a qualified mental health professional. For immediate help, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, or call 000 in an emergency.Views expressed are my own and not those of any organisations I am associated with. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.