Growing Pains |  Where Business Owners Come to Plan Maternity Leave

Over the years of supporting hundreds of business-owning moms, I’ve noticed a truth no one wants to say out loud: the version of you that existed before maternity leave isn’t the one who returns. You don’t bounce back. You bounce forward. And the sooner we stop trying to fit into old routines that no longer serve us, the more freedom we’ll find.This episode is an invitation to shift your expectations, rework your systems, and let yourself be changed. Because that’s where the magic really happens. If you’ve ever felt like you should be doing it all like you used to, this one’s for you.In This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why bouncing back is the wrong goal and what it means to bounce forward instead • How I trained my team to stop texting me when I was with my baby (and how you can too) • The unexpected way I use “version ones” to reduce decision fatigue and lighten my load • The myth of “just wake up before your kids” and what I do instead • How to use season-based decision-making to confidently say no • The one system I wish I had built before having my first son_______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

We’re told not to make any big business decisions postpartum. But what if that’s actually when everything becomes the most clear?In today’s conversation with Cait Scudder, business mentor, TEDx speaker, and founder of The Millionaire Mother, we discuss the deep personal transformation that occurs after birth and how Cait’s own postpartum reckoning led to a complete reinvention of her business. Cait shares exactly how she knew it was time to shut down a wildly successful mastermind, what it took to create a brand that fully reflected her evolution, and why motherhood is not something she hides in business. It’s the center.In This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why Cait shut down a multi-7-figure mastermind just months after giving birth • Why trying to “just add a baby” to your old business model almost always backfires • What changed between baby one and baby three, especially in how Cait allowed herself to be supported • How to advocate for your needs without guilt and model that strength for your kids • The mindset shift that completely redefined legacy for her (hint: it’s not just about money)Connect with Cait:www.themillionairemother.comwww.instagram.com/themillionairemotherwww.themillionairemother.com/podcast_______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

Planning a second maternity leave isn’t just a repeat. It’s a whole new equation.You’re already a mom. You’re already running a business. And when you’re preparing for another baby, the bandwidth just isn’t the same. In this episode, I’m sharing what I did differently the second time around, not just because I knew more, but because I needed different support. From navigating state programs and private disability insurance to managing toddler care and carving out space for myself, this is the real story behind what it takes to plan a second leave as a self-employed mom.This episode is especially for second-, third-, or fifth-time moms who are trying to plan leave in the midst of already parenting. It’s for those of you who feel like you should know how to do this by now, but deep down, know that your life and your capacity have shifted. The second time around, the stakes are different. And so is the plan.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:• Why your second maternity leave can’t be planned the same way as your first • How I approached finances, insurance, and short-term disability differently • The systems and team members I leaned on to keep the business running • The self-care non-negotiables I built into my daily rhythm (and how I got support for them) • What I did to help my first son feel secure and seen in those early newborn days • How writing letters to myself during pregnancy helped me navigate postpartum_______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

There was a moment in this conversation with Heather Chauvin that stopped me in my tracks. She said, “If you’re not going to create space for how you want to feel, you’re going to have a lot of space for how you don’t want to feel.” And I felt that in my body. Because so many of us, especially in early motherhood, are taught that struggle is part of the deal. That exhaustion, resentment, and self-sacrifice just come with the territory.But what if that’s not actually true?Heather is a leadership coach, former social worker, and mom of three who rebuilt her life after a stage 4 cancer diagnosis. Her work is all about helping women stop abandoning themselves in the name of being a “good” mother, partner, or business owner. This conversation is honest, clarifying, and filled with the kind of perspective shift I wish I had when I was newly postpartum.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:What Heather means when she says “a well-resourced woman is the secret”Why labeling our struggles (like “imposter syndrome”) often blocks true healingThe one journal prompt that changed how she showed up in motherhood and businessHow Heather rebuilt her life from a hospital bed—without financial privilege or backupWhat to do when your body reacts before your brain can explain whyWhy “wouldn’t it be nice if…” might be the most powerful question you ask all weekMentioned in the episode:Time Rich Reset http://heatherchauvin.com/alyson Connect with Heather:Website: heatherchauvin.comEmotionally Uncomfortable Podcast: heatherchauvin.com/podcastInstagram: instagram.com/heatherchauvin________________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

When Didiana De La Osa joined my maternity leave program, she was pregnant, growing a mission-driven business, and determined to take real time off after her son was born. Just a few months later, she’s wrapping up her first maternity leave, and she did it without pausing her momentum or compromising her values.Didi is a board-certified behavior analyst and university professor who supports clinicians and parents in building ethical, effective autism therapy practices. When we first connected, she was preparing to step away for the arrival of her baby boy while onboarding a new clinical contractor, setting up systems, and making sure her team could keep delivering high-quality support in her absence. In this episode, she walks us through the decisions she made to protect her family time, professionalize her operations, and return to a stronger, more sustainable business.In This Episode, You’ll Hear: • How IVF shaped Didiana’s perspective on asking for support and creating space for recovery • Why she applied for our Bond Fund and what she did with the grant • The operational systems she put in place to delegate confidently and avoid burnout • How her maternity leave helped her expand her long-term vision (including credentialing in new states) • What it actually looked like to be present with her baby for 3 months while still staying connected to her mission • Her honest advice for Type A business owners who struggle to let goConnect with Didiwww.premierbhconsulting.comwww.instagram.com/pbhcgroup_______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

Leah Gervais makes $10,000 a week, and she does it while staying home full-time with her two boys in New York City. In this conversation, she shares what it looked like to let go of childcare, simplify her business, and step fully into a version of motherhood she didn’t even know she wanted when she started.What I loved about this conversation is how expansive it felt. Leah didn’t follow a playbook. She asked better questions. She made intentional choices to slow down, focus on fewer offers, and rethink how she defined ambition. And the result? A business that still thrives and a motherhood experience that feels fully her own.In This Episode, You’ll Hear: • Why Leah chose to let go of her nanny and what shifted in her business as a result • The moment she realized she didn’t need to “earn” the stay-at-home mom title • What her work hours actually look like now (and how her hourly rate went up) • How she navigated maternity leave differently with each baby • The mindset shift from growth at all costs to depth, sustainability, and trust • Why she’s doubling down on doing less in 2025 and what that really looks likeConnect with Leah:www.leahgervais.comwww.instagram.com/leahgervais________________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

Some moms know they’re struggling postpartum. Others just feel “off” but don’t know why.I brought on Dr. Emily Guarnotta, a licensed clinical psychologist and certified perinatal mental health provider, to talk about the signs of postpartum anxiety and depression that often go unnoticed. Her perspective helped me name parts of my own journey I hadn’t fully understood until years later. If you’ve ever felt snappy, restless, or overwhelmed as a new mom and wondered if it’s just part of the job, this conversation is for you.Emily specializes in maternal mental health and works with families navigating the full arc of parenthood: from infertility to pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. What I love about her approach is that it’s both clinical and deeply personal. She started this work after walking through postpartum depression herself.In This Episode, You’ll Learn: • The most common symptoms of postpartum anxiety (that go far beyond worry) • Why some moms struggle more after baby #2, even if baby #1 felt “easier” • How your relationship with self-care activities may need to evolve postpartum • A smart, proactive way to book postpartum therapy even if you’re not sure you’ll need it • What to say when help doesn’t feel helpful (and how to advocate for the support you actually want) • Why it’s never “too late” to get support, even if you’re a year or more postpartumConnect with Dr. Emily:Phoenix Health Instagram: www.instagram.com/_phoenix_healthPhoenix Health Facebook: www.facebook.com/JoinPhoenixHealthInstagram: www.instagram.com/dr_emily_guarnottaLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/emily-guarnotta_______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

When Janea Kannett couldn’t find a diaper bag that actually worked for her, she designed one herself. She was in the thick of postpartum anxiety, with a baby on her hip and zero business background. Less than a year later, she’s shipping hundreds of orders from her home, showing up online daily, and slowly rebuilding a version of motherhood she actually wants to live in.I wanted to bring Janea on not because her business is perfect or finished, but because she’s in it right now. She’s growing something real, from scratch, in the middle of everyday life with two little kids. If you’re wondering whether you need a detailed plan, a massive audience, or the confidence to “show up” before you start something, this episode is a generous, honest permission slip to begin exactly where you are.In This Episode, You’ll Hear:• What postpartum anxiety taught Janea about identity, independence, and asking for help • How she launched her product without a long-term plan (or full inventory) • What’s working and what’s not as she juggles mom life, marriage, and business • Why she shows up online six days a week, even when imposter syndrome creeps in • How she’s redefining success through micro-wins, not milestonesConnect with Janea + Mother and Kub:www.motherandkub.comwww.instagram.com/motherandkub_______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

When I first met Bridgitte Mallinson, MS, RDN, I knew I needed to bring her voice to Growing Pains. Bridgitte is the founder and CEO of GutPersonal, a female‑founded supplement company that helps women heal gut issues with personalized testing and targeted formulas. She’s also a registered functional dietitian, a mom to Lily, and currently pregnant with baby girl number two. I invited her on because so many of us wonder how to stay nourished, energized, and mentally clear while building a business and a family. Bridgitte’s story proves we can advocate for our bodies and still scale big dreams.In this conversation, Bridgitte shows exactly why functional medicine matters during the trying‑to‑conceive, pregnancy, and postpartum seasons. She breaks down simple, science‑backed habits that keep our guts happy (goodbye bloat, brain fog, and 3 p.m. crashes) and shares how that biological stability bleeds into calmer CEO decision‑making. You’ll also hear how her first whirlwind maternity leave pushed her to design a more intentional plan for baby #2, and why she now believes you can be a present mom and an ambitious founder at the same time.In This Episode, You’ll Learn: The two daily, non‑negotiable supplements Bridgitte prescribes for every expecting or postpartum momHow vitamin D functions like a hormone, the trimester‑by‑trimester testing schedule Bridgitte asks her OB for, and how it supports mood after birth. A quick “magnesium mocktail” ritual that replaces end‑of‑day wine culture with deeper sleep and steadier nerves. What a functional “poop test” actually measures and how it helped Bridgitte ditch five prescriptions within six months. The mindset shifts she’s using to take a more spacious second maternity leave, delegate with confidence, and keep Black Friday sales humming without her.Links & Resources Mentioned: GutPersonal supplements + gut quiz: www.gutpersonal.com/ALYSON Get a 10 % listener discount on GutPersonal using code ALYSON10Connect with Bridgitte:www.instagram.com/gut.personal www.facebook.com/gut.personal_______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

When Deborah Collazo first started planning her self-employed maternity leave, she was overwhelmed. She was convinced she’d either have to shut down her business completely or skip taking time off altogether. But after joining my maternity leave planning program, Deborah created a plan that gave her clarity, support, and confidence. Now she’s preparing to welcome her baby this fall, with her business running smoothly in the background.Deborah is an industrial-organizational psychologist based in Puerto Rico. She runs her own HR consulting practice while also managing operations at her family’s aquatic wellness center. In this episode, she shares what it looked like to go from “I don’t think I can do this” to “I’ve got this.” She also opens up about how working together helped her build a more sustainable business and confidently design a self-employed maternity leave that supports her family and her future.In This Episode, You’ll Hear: • The exact moment Deborah realized she needed to plan differently, and what she did next • How she built trust and handed off sensitive responsibilities within a family business • Why letting go of control actually made her business stronger • How planning her leave gave her permission to simplify and refocus • What she’s most excited to experience during maternity leave (hint: it’s not just the time off)_______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

What if getting a handle on your business finances didn’t have to feel so heavy?In this episode, I’m joined by financial coach Tiffany Vogel, who has made it her mission to simplify the money side of entrepreneurship, especially for moms. We talk about why so many of us avoid looking at the numbers, how to rebuild trust in yourself as a business owner, and what it means to build a life (not just a spreadsheet) that supports your goals. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by bookkeeping, expenses, or "doing it wrong," this conversation is for you.Topics Covered in This Episode:Why we avoid our finances, and how to shift that relationshipBuilding systems that work for you, not just your accountantLetting go of shame and guilt tied to financial decisionsHow your money mindset shapes your businessSmall, realistic actions to start feeling more in controlConnect with Tiffany:www.tiffanyvogel.comwww.instagram.com/tiffanyvogelfinancialFinancial Freedom Book Club: www.facebook.com/groups/1001149184733195_______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

If you’ve made it here, you’ve done something powerful. You’ve committed to rethinking what maternity leave can look like as a business owner.In this final episode of the series, I’m reflecting on what we’ve covered, what it really means to lead yourself through this season, and how to keep going. Because this work isn’t just about creating a plan. It’s about becoming the kind of leader your business and your family can rely on, now and long after your leave is over.You don’t have to have all the answers yet. But you do have a roadmap, and that means you’re not starting from scratch anymore. You’re starting from clarity.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapNeed more personalized support as you prep for maternity leave? The Bond is my 1:1 container for business owners navigating leave planning with live support, team delegation, and real-time coaching. mastermaternityleave.com/bondIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • How preparing for leave rewires the way I lead • What most business owners miss when they rush the planning process • Why I believe maternity leave is a business strategy, not a personal risk • What it means to lead myself through this season, not just survive it • A reminder of what you’ve already done and what’s possible nextThis Episode’s Homework: Take five minutes and reflect. What do you want to carry forward from this series? Choose one next step to keep your momentum going._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

When you're building a plan for maternity leave, it’s easy to assume that once it’s in place, it’s set in stone. But the truth is, your needs, your baby’s rhythms, and your business might ask for something different. That’s not a sign you did it wrong. It’s a sign you’re paying attention.In this episode of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series, I’m talking about flexibility. Not the kind that throws your whole schedule into chaos, but the kind that builds responsiveness into your systems from day one. You’ll hear how my second leave looked completely different from my first, how I co-created flexible routines with my husband, and why a simple daily question changed everything about how I cared for myself in postpartum.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapNeed more personalized support as you prep for maternity leave? The Bond is my 1:1 container for business owners navigating leave planning with live support, team delegation, and real-time coaching. mastermaternityleave.com/bondIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why flexibility is a feature of great planning, not a failure • How to build supportive routines that actually hold up in real life • The simple question that helped me notice what I needed each day • How to shift your schedule without throwing everything away • The weekly habit that improved communication with my partnerThis Episode’s Homework: Start asking yourself each morning: “It would be amazing to have _____ today.” Track the answers, and if something keeps coming up, bring it to your weekly family meeting to explore how you can support that need._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

What if growth didn’t have to be loud, measurable, or tied to a to-do list?In this reflective episode of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series, I’m sharing what early postpartum really felt like and how disorienting it was to go from clear, daily business progress to the invisible work of motherhood. If you’ve ever felt like you’re falling behind just because your growth doesn’t look the same, I hope this episode reminds you that this season still counts. You are growing, even if no one else can see it.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapNeed more personalized support as you prep for maternity leave? The Bond is my 1:1 container for business owners navigating leave planning with live support, team delegation, and real-time coaching. mastermaternityleave.com/bondIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why postpartum growth doesn’t look like business growth • How I navigated the identity shift that happens after baby • What it felt like to lose a sense of progress in early motherhood • The deeper lessons I could only learn by slowing down • How my anchor activity helped me stay grounded in the quietThis Episode’s Homework: Return to your anchor activity with curiosity. Can you let it be enough for now? Take ten minutes today to reflect on how you’re growing without trying to measure it._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

When your whole life is shifting, you need something that keeps you grounded. That’s what an anchor activity is for.In this episode of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series, I’m introducing one of the very first things we build inside The Bond coaching program: the anchor activity. Whether it’s journaling, stretching, walking, or simply breathing, this practice helps you reconnect to yourself as everything around you changes. I’m sharing how it worked for me during postpartum and why building the habit before your baby arrives is one of the kindest things you can do for yourself.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapNeed more personalized support as you prep for maternity leave? The Bond is my 1:1 container for business owners navigating leave planning with live support, team delegation, and real-time coaching. mastermaternityleave.com/bondIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • What an anchor activity is and why it matters for moms and business owners • The types of practices that help you stay centered and self-aware • How to use journaling, breathwork, or movement to manage mental overload • Why I stopped using alcohol as a way to cope with overwhelm • How a short, consistent practice can shape your day and your recovery • The simple morning habit I used to stay grounded with a newbornThis Episode’s Homework: Choose your anchor activity and commit to it daily. It could be journaling, stretching, breathwork, or a short walk. Try it at the same time each day to help it stick, and start now so it’s in place before your baby arrives._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

Some people want to fully unplug during maternity leave. Others feel pulled to work, and that doesn’t have to be a bad thing.In this episode of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series, we’re talking about how to think through working during your leave. Whether it’s out of desire or necessity, this episode walks you through how to assess your time, your capacity, and your energy so you can say yes to what truly lights you up and no to everything else. This isn’t about doing more. It’s about choosing what matters most in this season without guilt.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapNeed more personalized support as you prep for maternity leave? The Bond is my 1:1 container for business owners navigating leave planning with live support, team delegation, and real-time coaching. mastermaternityleave.com/bondIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why working on maternity leave isn’t wrong if it’s done intentionally • The two questions to ask before saying yes to a task • How to know if something is a high-leverage, high-energy activity • Why making weekly commitments can backfire during early postpartum • Creative ways to stay connected to your business without overcommitting • What it looks like to support clients even while stepping backThis Episode’s Homework: If you’re considering working during leave, ask yourself these two questions: Does this light me up? Does this bring in revenue? Let those answers guide what gets your time and what doesn’t._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

Boundaries aren't just about protecting your time. They are about teaching others what to expect from you.In this episode of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series, I’m sharing what it really looks like to create boundaries that stick. I walk through how to set expectations with yourself, your team, and your clients, especially during maternity leave. From turning off notifications to creating decision-making guidelines, this episode will help you shift from reactive to intentional so you can rest, recover, and return with confidence.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapNeed more personalized support as you prep for maternity leave? The Bond is my 1:1 container for business owners navigating leave planning with live support, team delegation, and real-time coaching. mastermaternityleave.com/bondIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why your team and clients respond to the boundaries you model • How to create personal tech boundaries that reduce stress • Ways to clearly define when and why people should contact you • How to build team habits that reduce dependency on you • A simple mindset shift to help you honor your own limits • How asynchronous updates can give you peace of mind during leaveThis Episode’s Homework: Choose one boundary to reinforce this week. Whether it’s deleting an app from your phone, updating your team’s contact protocol, or turning on do not disturb, take one step that supports your space and sanity._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

The closer you get to maternity leave, the more valuable your time and energy become. And the only way to protect both is with boundaries.In this episode of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series, I’m walking you through five boundaries that have helped me save my sanity during pregnancy, maternity leave, and early motherhood. These aren’t just “nice to have” tips. They’re clarity-setting, calendar-clearing filters that help you say yes to what matters and confidently let go of the rest. If you’ve been wondering how to prepare for time off without resenting your business or burning out, this episode is your sign to get clear now.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapNeed more personalized support as you prep for maternity leave? The Bond is my 1:1 container for business owners navigating leave planning with live support, team delegation, and real-time coaching. mastermaternityleave.com/bondIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why boundaries are a business skill, not just a personal one • The five key areas that need boundaries before baby arrives • How to communicate expectations with your team and clients • Why saying no to coffee chats and in-person events can be a smart business move • The mindset shift that helped me let go of “doing it like I always have” • How boundaries create space for the business and life you actually wantThis Episode’s Homework: Pick one area where your boundaries feel blurry. Write down what you want this to look like during your leave, and communicate that expectation to your team, clients, or inner circle._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

It’s easy to feel like you should have a village around you during motherhood and business. But what happens when that village doesn’t show up?In this episode of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series, I’m talking about the two forms of support that matter most in this season: community and intuition. I share personal stories of navigating early motherhood and entrepreneurship without nearby family support, and how I found clarity and confidence by trusting myself and building a community that actually gets it. Whether you’re still finding your people or learning how to hear your inner voice, this episode will remind you that you’re not doing it wrong—you’re doing something brave.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapNeed more personalized support as you prep for maternity leave? The Bond is my 1:1 container for business owners navigating leave planning with live support, team delegation, and real-time coaching. mastermaternityleave.com/bondIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why community often looks different than we expect • How to find support that understands your season and goals • What it means to “lone wolf” some of your growth and decision-making • How trusting yourself can lead to better choices in business and motherhood • Why finding aligned support creates clarity and confidence for your familyThis Episode’s Homework: Identify one area where you’ve been seeking outside validation. Pause and ask yourself what you truly want. Then, consider what kind of community would best support you in making that choice and take one step toward building it._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

The biggest shift in your maternity leave plan isn’t logistical. It’s personal.In this episode of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series, I’m sharing what that identity shift looked like for me, how it caught me off guard, and why it ultimately made me a stronger, more focused business owner. Whether you’re about to become a mom for the first time or you’re navigating this transition again in a new season, this conversation is about honoring what’s changing and letting go of the idea that you have to be all things at once.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapNeed more personalized support as you prep for maternity leave? The Bond is my 1:1 container for business owners navigating leave planning with live support, team delegation, and real-time coaching. mastermaternityleave.com/bondIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why it’s normal to feel unrecognizable in early motherhood • How to stop measuring your value by your output • The difference between a quiet season and a lost identity • What shifting priorities can teach you about leadership • How to build a business that flexes with the season you’re inThis Episode’s Homework: Reflect on who you were before motherhood, and who you are now. What’s stayed the same, what’s changed, and what deserves to take the lead in this season?_______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

You’ve probably heard it before: just get everything done before baby comes. But what if trying to frontload your entire business is actually setting you up to fail?In this episode of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series, I’m breaking down what I call the “frontload fallacy” and why I believe one of the most important parts of preparing for maternity leave is learning how to slow down before the baby arrives. From adjusting your schedule in your final weeks of pregnancy to rethinking how you re-enter your business, this episode is about building a new kind of rhythm, one that supports both your nervous system and your bottom line.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapNeed more personalized support as you prep for maternity leave? The Bond is my 1:1 container for business owners navigating leave planning with live support, team delegation, and real-time coaching. mastermaternityleave.com/bondIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why frontloading everything rarely works • What slowing down actually looks like in your business • How to create a gentle runway into maternity leave • What to focus on if you only had 10 to 15 hours per week • How constraint can lead to clarity, growth, and better systems • The surprising ways slowing down improves team morale and revenueThis Episode’s Homework: Start imagining your “runway” into maternity leave. What would your final month look like if you cut your hours in half? List out your most essential tasks and begin creating space to let go of the rest._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

You’ve done the planning. Now it’s time to actually start building.In this episode of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series, we’re entering the implementation phase. I’m sharing one of the most effective tools I’ve used (and that we use inside The Bond) to help you get momentum when it’s time to put your plan into action: blocking a full day. You’ll learn how to structure your time, where to go to get in the zone, and how to clear the noise so you can finally knock out the tasks that will set you up for a smoother, more supported leave.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapNeed more personalized support as you prep for maternity leave? The Bond is my 1:1 container for business owners navigating leave planning with live support, team delegation, and real-time coaching. mastermaternityleave.com/bondIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why implementation deserves just as much space as planning • How to block an implementation day that actually works • Creative ways to get out of your daily routine and into focused flow • What to do before the day begins to make it more effective • How we structure implementation inside The Bond (and how you can too)This Episode’s Homework: Put your first implementation day on the calendar. Choose your space, prep your list in advance, and consider inviting a friend, contractor, or team member to join you for added momentum and accountability._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

By now, you’ve probably uncovered a few areas in your business that need support. But what if diagnosing the real problem was simpler than you think?In this episode of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series, I’m sharing what I’ve learned from a decade of operations consulting: almost every issue in your business falls into just three categories. I’ll walk you through how to tell the difference between a process problem, a system problem, or a people problem, and why solving the right one before your leave can make all the difference in how your business runs without you.This is one of the most powerful mindset shifts for entrepreneurs prepping for time away.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapNeed more personalized support as you prep for maternity leave? The Bond is my 1:1 container for business owners navigating leave planning with live support, team delegation, and real-time coaching. mastermaternityleave.com/bondIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why most business issues are misdiagnosed and what to do instead • The difference between a process, system, and people problem • How to avoid solving the wrong issue before you go on leave • What to ask when a team member isn’t meeting expectations • How this simple framework can create clarity across your businessThis Episode’s Homework: Think of one challenge you’ve been facing in your business. Ask yourself: is this a process problem, a system problem, or a people problem? Then map out one step you can take this week to address the real root cause._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

You don’t need to sell more to afford your leave. You need to start with the money you already have.In this episode of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series, I’m walking you through a step-by-step financial audit that helped me return from maternity leave with a more profitable and sustainable business. You’ll learn how to review your expenses, identify what’s not serving you, and make decisions that create margin, clarity, and breathing room for both your family and your future self.This isn’t about slashing everything to the bone. It’s about making sure your business is working for you—especially while you step away.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapNeed more personalized support as you prep for maternity leave? The Bond is my 1:1 container for business owners navigating leave planning with live support, team delegation, and real-time coaching. mastermaternityleave.com/bondIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why reviewing your P&L is one of the most powerful parts of leave prep • How to identify what to cut, automate, or delegate • A simple 3-part filter to evaluate expenses with more clarity • Why financial decisions are often emotional, and how to move through that • How a few small shifts can create lasting profit and peace of mindThis Episode’s Homework: Print out or open your latest P&L. Highlight any expenses that don’t align with your goals or feel heavy to carry during leave. Use the three-part approach: cut it, automate it, or delegate it to someone else before baby arrives._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

Most business owners wait until something goes wrong before they think about insurance. But when you’re planning maternity leave, thinking ahead is a gift to your future self.In this episode of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series, I’m breaking down my own business insurance setup and explaining how I use a mix of state programs, private policies, and tax strategy to create financial stability during time away. Whether you’re planning a few weeks or a full year off, this episode will help you understand how insurance fits into your bigger maternity leave plan—and how to layer your options to reduce pressure and risk.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapNeed more personalized support as you prep for maternity leave? The Bond is my 1:1 container for business owners navigating leave planning with live support, team delegation, and real-time coaching. mastermaternityleave.com/bondIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why insurance often gets overlooked—and why it matters for maternity leave • What a business owner’s policy typically covers (and how it helps) • How to layer short-term and long-term disability with state programs • Why business structure and tax status can impact your coverage • Tips for talking to your provider and building a flexible support planThis Episode’s Homework: Make a list of your current coverage (or lack of it). Then set up one call—to your accountant, state representative, or insurance provider—to get clarity on what your options are and what updates you may need before leave._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

One of the biggest questions I get from self-employed moms planning their maternity leave is: Does my state offer anything to help?In this episode of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series, we’re breaking down the truth about state programs, federal protections, and private options for financial support during your leave. I’ll walk you through how these benefits actually work, what to look for, and how to stack multiple sources of coverage so you’re not caught off guard. Whether your state has programs in place or not, this episode will help you start building a plan that feels more stable, supported, and smart.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapNeed more personalized support as you prep for maternity leave? The Bond is my 1:1 container for business owners navigating leave planning with live support, team delegation, and real-time coaching. mastermaternityleave.com/bondIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • What state and federal programs (like FMLA) actually offer • How state disability and paid leave programs really work • What to do if your state doesn’t offer anything • How to supplement with private insurance or personal savings • Real-life examples of how to stack support options for your unique setup • Why getting strategic now can increase your income during leaveThis Episode’s Homework: Research what your state currently offers in terms of paid leave or disability. If there’s nothing available, explore one private or business-funded option you could start preparing for now._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

There’s so much talk about prepping your business for leave, but what about you?In this episode of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series, I’m inviting you to schedule something we rarely give ourselves: space to feel. Whether it’s journaling, therapy, or just taking a quiet walk alone, this episode is your reminder that postpartum recovery isn’t just physical—it’s mental and emotional too. I’m sharing personal stories, what I wish I’d done earlier, and why scheduling a few simple “beats” ahead of time can make all the difference in how you experience your maternity leave.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapNeed more personalized support as you prep for maternity leave?The Bond is my 1:1 container for business owners navigating leave planning with live support, team delegation, and real-time coaching.mastermaternityleave.com/bondIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • What it means to “take a beat,” and why it matters during maternity leave • Why quiet time won’t just magically appear—and how to plan for it • How to structure small moments of mental and emotional check-in • The role of postpartum mental health support and when to seek it • How these small pauses can prevent bigger breakdowns laterThis Episode’s Homework: Look at your maternity leave calendar and schedule two beats—intentional check-in moments where you can reflect, rest, or get support. Share the plan with your partner or someone close to you so they can help make it happen._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

There’s a moment in your leave planning process where things shift from ideas to action. This is that moment.In this episode of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series, I’m walking you through the exact structure of your one-page maternity leave plan. You’ll learn what to include, how to keep it simple, and why this document becomes the anchor for both your team and your sanity while you’re away. From dates and contact info to check-in rhythms and boundaries, this is where your leave gets real.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapNeed more personalized support as you prep for maternity leave?The Bond is my 1:1 container for business owners navigating leave planning with live support, team delegation, and real-time coaching.mastermaternityleave.com/bondIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why simple maternity leave plans are more likely to succeed • What to include in your plan so your team knows exactly what to expect • How to communicate timelines, coverage, and check-in rhythms • Ways to set clear communication boundaries without going dark • Why this plan is the foundation of a smooth, confident transitionThis Episode’s Homework: Start drafting your one-page leave plan. Include your due date, limited-access start date, coverage contacts, and check-in rhythms. This will become the foundation for everything else moving forward._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

If just the thought of telling your clients you're pregnant makes your stomach drop, you're not imagining it. This is one of the trickiest parts of maternity leave planning.In this episode of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series, I’m walking you through the exact three-part framework I use (and teach inside the Bond program) to help business owners tell their clients they’re going on leave with confidence. Whether you run a service-based business, manage retainers, or just worry that clients will leave when they hear the news, this episode will show you how to approach the conversation with clarity, leadership, and a plan.Because when you do the thinking for your clients, they’re far more likely to stay.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapNeed more personalized support as you prep for maternity leave?The Bond is my 1:1 container for business owners navigating leave planning with live support, team delegation, and real-time coaching.mastermaternityleave.com/bondIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why this conversation is one of the most stressful parts of planning leave • The 3-part formula to keep client trust (and revenue) intact • How to introduce your team or coverage plan with confidence • The biggest mistake most business owners make and how to avoid it • Creative ways to get support if you don’t have a team yetThis Episode’s Homework: Map out your client communication plan. Choose a date to notify clients, identify who will take over each account or deliverable, and draft the core message you’ll send to explain the transition and keep them feeling supported._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

Delegation isn’t just about handing off a task. It’s about trusting someone to run with it, even if they do it differently than you would.In this episode of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series, we’re shifting from theory to practice. I’m walking you through how to set up the actual conversations and systems that make delegation stick, including how to pass off responsibility in a way that creates ownership, not micromanagement. Whether you’re working with one assistant or a full team, this is where your plan becomes real.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapNeed more personalized support as you prep for maternity leave?The Bond is my 1:1 container for business owners navigating leave planning with live support, team delegation, and real-time coaching.mastermaternityleave.com/bondIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why your team doesn’t need to do it your way to do it well • The three things every successful delegation needs • How to set expectations without hovering • When to pass off ownership so you’re not stressing the week of your due date • How leading and lagging indicators help your team stay on trackThis Episode’s Homework: Schedule a meeting with your team (or individual contractor) to delegate a key responsibility. Outline the non-negotiables, assign a metric for success, and set a handoff date that gives them time to pilot it before your leave._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

When something in your business feels “off,” the answer is usually upstream.In this episode of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series, we’re talking about leading indicators aka the activities that directly impact your results. Whether you’re trying to grow revenue, stabilize your systems, or step back without everything falling apart, knowing what to track and how to delegate it is a game-changer.This is one of the most powerful ways to protect your energy and your time before, during, and after maternity leave.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapNeed more personalized support as you prep for maternity leave?The Bond is my 1:1 container for business owners navigating leave planning with live support, team delegation, and real-time coaching.mastermaternityleave.com/bondIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • What leading indicators are, and how they help you grow • How to figure out which activities actually move your metrics • The difference between a system that “works” and one that sustains • When to automate, delegate, or batch your most important tasks • How to train your team to take ownership of results, not just check boxesThis Episode’s Homework: Identify one key metric you want to improve in your business. Then, list the top one or two activities that directly impact that result. Those are your leading indicators. Now decide if they need to be automated, delegated, or blocked off in your calendar._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

You can’t manage what you don’t measure, and when you’re preparing to step away from your business, your data becomes one of your most powerful tools.In this episode of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series, I’m sharing how to get your data picture in place so you can make smart, confident decisions before, during, and after your leave. I’ll walk you through what to track, how often to look at it, and how to blend cold hard numbers with your gut instinct to lead more effectively.If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry—I’ll give you the four categories to focus on first so you don’t get stuck in spreadsheet overwhelm.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapNeed more personalized support as you prep for maternity leave? The Bond is my 1:1 container for business owners navigating leave planning with live support, team delegation, and real-time coaching. mastermaternityleave.com/bondIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why “trusting your gut” works better when it’s backed by data • What to track across lead generation, conversion, fulfillment, and finance • How to set up a simple scorecard, even if it’s just in a Google Sheet • What your numbers can tell you about team needs and system gaps • How data brings clarity and calm when you’re prepping for time offThis Episode’s Homework: Pick one category from your business—leads, sales, fulfillment, or operations—and start tracking a few key numbers weekly. Then block time on your calendar to review and reflect on what’s working and what’s not._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

If you’re ending your weeks exhausted and wondering, Why did that feel so hard?—this is your sign to pause and reassess.In this episode of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series, I’m walking you through one of the most helpful tools I’ve used in business and motherhood: the perfect week. You’ll learn how to audit your calendar, align your time with what really matters, and use your energy—not just your hours—to build a schedule that actually supports you through seasons of growth, transition, and maternity leave.If you’ve ever said yes to too much, skipped your workouts, or pushed through when your body needed rest—this one's for you.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • What the perfect week looks like—and how to build your own • The difference between “drivers” and time-fillers in your calendar • Why aligning your time with your values is a non-negotiable • How to use your energy cycle to work smarter, not harder • Why honoring the season of business you’re in is key to avoiding burnoutThis Episode’s Homework: Review your calendar from the past two weeks. Identify what truly moved the needle—and what didn’t. Then, map out a version of your “perfect week” that supports your current season._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

You soon won’t have the bandwidth you used to. That’s not a weakness—it’s a turning point.In this episode of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series, we’re talking about how to protect your time by learning to block and tackle. I’ll walk you through how to decide what stays on your plate, how to communicate what you’re letting go of, and why this shift is one of the most powerful things you can do before maternity leave.This mindset and boundary work is where real delegation starts. And it might just be the habit that keeps you from resenting your business after baby.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • What “blocking and tackling” looks like in a small business • How to decide what gets your time—and what doesn’t • Two ways to create strong boundaries with clients and your team • What to say (or have your assistant say) when you need to say no • Why lowering your bandwidth might be the best thing that ever happened to your leadershipThis Episode’s Homework: Make your “Not Right Now” list. Identify a few tasks or requests you will no longer take on directly, and write a simple canned response or delegate plan for each one._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

Most founders are stuck in the weeds not because they’re doing something wrong—but because their business is missing a system.In this episode of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series, I’m sharing the four core systems every business needs to operate without you. Whether you’re solo or have a small team, these categories will give you a framework to assess what’s working, what’s missing, and what needs to be strengthened before you take maternity leave.If you’ve been running on hustle and instinct, this is your moment to pause, stabilize, and build a business that’s actually set up to support you while you're away.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • The four categories every business system should fall into • Why operating “off the cuff” only works for so long • What a system actually is—and how it differs from a task or tool • How to simplify your business by building one core process per category • Why this work is the foundation for confidently stepping awayThis Episode’s Homework: Review the four systems in your business: lead generation, conversion, fulfillment, and improvement. Identify which one feels weakest right now and brainstorm one small way to start strengthening it this week._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

Most team breakdowns don’t happen because of bad intentions—they happen because no one knows where to find what they need.In this episode of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series, I’m walking you through one of the most powerful tools you can put in place before your leave: a central source of truth. This simple system brings clarity, consistency, and independence to your team—so they don’t have to rely on you to keep things running while you're away.If you’ve ever answered the same question more than once or worried about things being done “the right way” without you, this episode is your next step.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • What a “central source of truth” is and why your team needs one • How to organize your Loom videos and training docs in one place • The four categories every business playbook should include • Why this one habit increases team accountability and reduces stress • How this system supports both delegation and team flexibilityThis Episode’s Homework: Create a central document or folder where your team can access videos, checklists, and resources. Start by organizing it into four buckets: marketing, sales, delivery, and operations._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

Want to delegate with confidence before baby comes? It starts with one simple habit.In this episode #5 of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series, we’re building on your outsource list from last time and getting tactical. I’m walking you through the exact method I use to train team members, set clear expectations, and standardize tasks—without adding extra work to your plate.You’ll learn how to create handoff materials in real time using a free tool I swear by, and how to build a resource library that makes delegation smoother now and when you step away on leave.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why most delegation fails (and what to do instead) • The small habit Aly uses to prep her team for time away • A free tool to visually train team members on repeatable tasks • How to build a “handoff library” before you even hire • What to say (and record) to finally make delegation clear and repeatableThis Episode’s Homework: Create your first training Loom. Pick one task from your outsource list, record yourself doing it, and save it to a shared doc or folder for future reference._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

When it comes to maternity leave planning, one of the biggest mindset blocks I see is this: “I don’t know if I can afford to get help.”In episode #4 of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series, we’re talking about time, money, and the numbers behind your capacity. I’ll walk you through a simple, eye-opening exercise to help you calculate your hourly rate, evaluate how you’re spending your time, and determine what you can realistically outsource in your business before baby arrives.This process isn’t just about saving money—it’s about protecting your energy, growing your business, and planning your leave like the CEO you are.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why most self-employed moms undercharge—and how to shift that • A simple math exercise to calculate your true hourly value • How to audit your calendar and uncover what’s draining your time • What types of tasks to outsource (and how to know when you’re ready) • Why this is one of the most impactful actions you can take before maternity leaveThis Episode’s Homework: Calculate your hourly rate based on your business revenue and time worked. Then audit your calendar and create a short list of tasks that can be outsourced for less than your hourly rate._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

We don’t build confidence by hoping things will go well—we build it through practice.In this episode #3 of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series, we’re shifting from intention-setting and time-blocking into real-life action. One of the most powerful ways to prepare for maternity leave is to start practicing what it feels like to step away—before you actually need to. Whether that means taking a Friday afternoon off or slowly weaving yourself out of day-to-day operations, this kind of practice builds trust in your systems, your team, and yourself.I’m also sharing the three phases I walk clients through to help them shift from operator to owner—and how you can start doing the same, even if you’re not ready to fully step back yet.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why taking time off needs to be practiced—not just planned • How Aly supported a client in gradually removing herself from key operations • What “over-functioning” really teaches your team (and why it holds you back) • The three leadership phases every founder needs to move through • Why testing your systems before baby arrives is one of the smartest moves you can makeThis Episode’s Homework: Choose one way to practice stepping back this week. Whether it's a full day off or one project you delegate, give yourself a small, intentional test run—and pay attention to what it reveals._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

Making time to plan your maternity leave doesn’t require a big life overhaul. You just need one focused habit.Welcome back to the Maternity Leave Roadmap series. If you’ve been wondering how you’re going to squeeze in planning between client work, toddler chaos, and everything else life throws at you—this episode is exactly what you need.Today, I’m walking you through the 90/90 principle, the same approach I’ve used to write a book, build my maternity leave plans, and help other business owners move forward even in their busiest seasons. You don’t need to do it all. You just need to show up—90 minutes at a time.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why 90 minutes a day is more than enough to start planning your leave • How the 90/90 principle works (and why it sticks) • The mindset shift that stops you from waiting for the “perfect time” • Why building a daily planning habit is the secret to long-term growth • What to avoid when trying to “block a full day” for maternity prepThis Episode’s Homework: Choose your 90-minute window and block it on your calendar. Commit to showing up daily and treating this time as sacred planning space—for you, your baby, and your business._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

Welcome to the start of the Maternity Leave Roadmap series. This is the beginning of something big.If you're a self-employed mom who’s thinking about growing your family—or you're already pregnant or postpartum—you’re in the right place. Over the next 30 episodes, I’m walking you through how to plan a self-employed maternity leave that supports both your business and your family.Whether you’re just starting to think about what leave could look like, or you’re deep in the overwhelm of trying to plan for it, this series will walk you through it all—one clear, honest episode at a time.You don’t have to choose between your baby and your business. You just need a plan. And this is where it starts.Want the full Maternity Leave Roadmap now? Get the complete audio and video series, email prompts, templates, and step-by-step planning tools inside the members area: mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapIn This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why maternity leave can be a leadership opportunity, not a liability • How Aly’s first leave reshaped the way she ran her business • The ripple effect that time away can have on systems, hiring, and clarity • Why now is the perfect time to start planning (even if you’re early in the journey) • What setting an intention can do for your mindset and momentumThis Episode’s Homework: Write down your maternity leave intention. What do you want this season to create for your business, your family, and yourself?_______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

“Give yourself grace.” It’s a phrase we hear all the time—especially in motherhood and entrepreneurship. But what happens when that grace quietly turns into an excuse?In this special 100th episode of Growing Pains, I’m reflecting on the evolution of the show, my own journey as a business owner and mom, and the hard lesson I’ve learned about using grace as a shield from growth. I’m also pulling back the curtain on what’s next for this podcast—new formats, more focused topics, and a deeper commitment to supporting you through trying to conceive, pregnancy, postpartum, and maternity leave planning as a self-employed mom.This isn’t just a celebration—it’s a reset. If you’ve ever felt stuck between giving yourself grace and holding yourself back, this episode will help you see where you might be using “grace” as a reason to delay your next level.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:How giving yourself grace can become a hidden form of self-sabotage.What’s changing on the podcast and why it matters for self-employed moms.A mindset shift that can help you return to business after baby with clarity.The new episode formats coming your way (spoiler: more solos + stories!).How to access the full Maternity Leave Roadmap audio series now._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

What if podcasting could transform not only your business but also your motherhood journey? In this episode, I chat with Amanda Bennett, a podcast guesting strategist and founder of the Podcasting Moms Club, about how moms can use podcasting to amplify their voices, build connections, and grow their businesses.Amanda shares her story of transitioning from nonprofit fundraising to creating a thriving community for mom podcasters. Whether you're podcasting-curious or a seasoned podcaster, you’ll love Amanda’s tips for building an impactful show while staying connected to what matters most.Topics covered in this episode:How podcasting can help moms connect and share their stories.Tips for starting a podcast while balancing a busy schedule.The importance of building a supportive podcasting community.Why consistency matters for podcast growth and success.How podcasting can amplify your voice and grow your business.Strategies to simplify podcasting with delegation and systems.The personal development opportunities podcasting can offer.CONNECT WITH AMANDA:Website - https://gotchamama.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/gotchamama/The Community for Podcasting Moms! - https://www.gotchamama.com/club_______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

Ready to take control of your health during pregnancy and beyond? In this episode, I sit down with Jessica Reynolds, a registered physiotherapist and holistic health practitioner, to explore her revolutionary approach to addressing morning sickness, postpartum recovery, and family well-being. We dive into her inspiring journey, the creation of her tallow-based skincare line, and how she empowers moms to reclaim their health and thrive. If you’re navigating pregnancy, postpartum, or just looking for holistic solutions, you’ll leave feeling inspired and empowered to support your health in new ways.Topics covered in this episode:How to approach morning sickness with a root cause mindset.Why nutrient deficiencies play a key role in pregnancy symptoms.The importance of self-care during pregnancy and postpartum.How holistic health practices can transform motherhood.The inspiration behind Jessica’s tallow-based skincare line.Tips for improving postpartum recovery and family wellness.CONNECT WITH JESS:Website - https://thewellnesselement.ca/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/the_wellness_element/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/aura.apothecary/Courses and offerings - https://stan.store/The_Wellness_ElementTallow skincare - http://www.auraapothecary.ca/_______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

Are traditions helping you connect—or just piling on the stress? In this episode, I explore the evolving nature of holiday traditions and why letting go of rigid expectations might be the best gift you give yourself. I'm sharing personal stories about creating traditions that align with your current season of life and the power of reassessing what truly brings joy to your family. Whether you’re a fan of routines or love to shake things up, I'm here to help you rethink how you approach the holidays and beyond and giving you a permission slip to do the holidays however you want!You may also want to listen to the previous episode I did on traditions - Episode 95:  Letting Go of Traditions That Don't Serve YouTopics covered in this episode:Why traditions should evolve with your family’s needs.How to balance routines with the excitement of new experiences.When to reassess holiday traditions that feel like obligations.The importance of open conversations about changing traditions.How to create meaningful connections without rigid expectations.Ways to introduce flexibility into your family’s holiday plans.How to honor past traditions while embracing the present._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

What if conflict wasn’t something to avoid but a powerful opportunity to grow closer? In this episode, I sit down with Kyle and Sara Wester, two incredible experts who help parents create thriving, connected families without fear-based approaches. We dive into real-life tools for handling parenting conflicts, aligning as a couple, and raising self-controlled, self-disciplined kids. From embracing mistakes to redefining conflict as a chance to build deeper understanding, they share stories and strategies that will inspire you to build a more intentional, connected family.Topics covered in this episode:How to view conflict as an opportunity to grow closer as a couple.Why unpacking your childhood stories is key to aligning as parents.Practical tools for tag-teaming as a couple with complementary strengths.How to create a shared family vision and values that guide decision-making.Ways to involve your kids in family goal setting and intentional conversations.The importance of regular check-ins to keep your relationship strong and connected.How embracing mistakes can lead to powerful moments of family growth.CONNECT WITH KYLE & SARA:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/artofraisinghumansFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/artofraisinghumansTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@artofraisinghumans_______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

Have you ever felt trapped by traditions that no longer feel meaningful? Join me in this episode to explore the power of letting go and creating space for what truly matters. From rethinking holiday expectations to redefining goals for the new year, I'm sharing my reflections on aligning life and business with your values. Let’s slow down, embrace intentionality, and rediscover joy by focusing on what truly serves you and your family.Topics covered in this episode:Embracing a stress-free holiday season by redefining traditions.Balancing family life and personal fulfillment during the holidays.Setting realistic and intentional goals for 2025.Understanding the power of rest and its role in high performance.Transitioning business focus while staying aligned with personal growth.Importance of parenting with presence and creating meaningful memories.Tips for reverse-engineering your dream life and business balance._______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

Are you ready to challenge the traditional path to success? In this episode, Kacia Ghetmiri joins me to share her inspiring journey of redefining what fulfillment and freedom truly mean. Learn how to lean into excitement as your guide, embrace change with courage, and build a career aligned with your passion. Whether you're considering a big life pivot or looking for inspiration to elevate your current path, this conversation will ignite your confidence and spark fresh ideas for your future. Topics covered in this episode:The power of using excitement to guide your decisions.Why grieving change is essential for personal growth.Balancing business ambitions with the demands of motherhood.How Kacia transitioned her husband’s career into real estate.Building a diverse portfolio to create financial freedom.Tips for asking for help and avoiding guilt as a mom.The importance of reflecting on your progress and future vision.CONNECT WITH KACIA:Website - https://www.kaciaghetmiri.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kacia.ghetmiri_______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

What does it take to scale a business while raising a family and navigating the challenges of military life? In this episode, Dylan Jahraus shares her inspiring journey from corporate e-commerce to building a multi-million-dollar Etsy empire. She opens up about health challenges that reshaped her path, the pivotal decisions behind launching her coaching business, and her latest venture into software development. We dive into the delicate art of balancing motherhood, marriage, and career while embracing the opportunities of new seasons in life. Topics covered in this episode:Transitioning from corporate e-commerce to starting a thriving Etsy shop.Building a multi-million-dollar business while navigating health challenges.The decision to shift from product creation to coaching and course creation.Managing business growth and launching new software for Etsy sellers.Strategies for balancing family, business, and personal well-being.Challenges and opportunities of relocating as a military family.Embracing flexibility and long-term decision-making in family and business.CONNECT WITH DYLAN:Website - https://www.dylanjahraus.comInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/dylanjahraus/_______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com

What happens when life throws unexpected challenges while you're building your dream business? In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with Emily Serino, founder of The Servicepreneur Network, to unpack her journey from a high-flying corporate career to creating a thriving business for service-based entrepreneurs. Emily shares her personal story of navigating infertility, grief, and finding balance between ambition and self-care. Together, we explore the power of community, the courage to embrace vulnerability, and how even small steps can signify hope and resilience.Topics covered in this episode:Emily's transition from corporate to entrepreneurship.Building a service-based business with a budget-friendly approach.Navigating the challenges of infertility and personal grief.Strategies for balancing business growth and personal life changes.The importance of community and connection in entrepreneurship.Overcoming insecurities and embracing vulnerability in business.Empowering women through resilience and shared experiences.CONNECT WITH EMILY:Website - https://www.theservicepreneur.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theservicepreneur/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilysereno/_______________You don't have to choose between growing your business and your family.Grab the Maternity Leave Roadmap for $29: www.mastermaternityleave.com/roadmapSend in your maternity leave questions! [email protected] Alywww.instagram.com/alycaffreywww.mastermaternityleave.com