Starting a business is no small feat, especially when you’re balancing the demands of motherhood. This is an experience I’ve come to understand intimately, and it’s something my latest guest on the podcast, Dr Sophie Brock, knows all too well. A motherhood studies sociologist by training, Dr Sophie Brock has charted her own path in creating a practitioner training programme, all while navigating the intricacies of life as a single mum. Our conversation was as enlightening as it was inspiring, and I can’t wait to share some insights with you here.
Sophie and I have run in the same circles for so long yet somehow never crossed paths. As it turns out, Sophie’s journey has been a fairly winding one. Starting her career in academia, she found herself needing to pivot in ways she hadn’t originally planned. Rather than pursuing a traditional academic route, Sophie took her expertise and developed something unique and impactful—a certification program focused on motherhood studies for practitioners.
The Reality of Starting a Business as a Single Mum
Sophie’s entrepreneurial journey didn’t begin in the ideal conditions many might imagine. As a single mum, the stakes were higher; it wasn’t just about following a passion—it was about creating a sustainable future for herself and her daughter. Sophie brought to light the relentless challenges of starting a business—from grappling with data to securing an income sufficient enough to replace safety nets like single-parent payments. The journey required not just passion, but adaptability and perseverance.
Learning in the Cracks of Time
One of the most poignant parts of our conversation was Sophie’s description of building her business in the “cracks of time.” From editing podcast episodes while her daughter napped, to utilising every moment between the demands of motherhood, Sophie paints a vivid picture of determination. Many of us envision “work time” as sitting uninterrupted at a desk, but the reality for many single mums is quite different. Sophie’s resourcefulness in these early days is a testament to what can be achieved even when ideal conditions aren’t on your side.
Facing the Practical Challenges
Starting a business means wearing many hats—often ones we’re not accustomed to. For Sophie, this meant delving into marketing, tech and much more—all without formal training. Her approach was one of learning by doing, often using creative solutions to overcome obstacles – like using stockings as a microphone muffler. Now that’s innovation!
Growth Through Re-Iteration
As businesses evolve, so do their leaders. Sophie’s decision to re-record her course, despite it already being successful, stems from a desire to provide the most relevant and energized content for her students. This spirit of continuous improvement and renewal reflects her deep commitment to not just her work, but also to those who benefit from it.
Finding Balance and Self-Kindness
For Sophie, maintaining balance—between work, personal aspirations, and motherhood—is key. She shares her strategies for finding peace amidst chaos, including allowing herself space to feel, without equating her personal worth with her business’s immediate success.
Despite the challenges, Sophie has not only built a thriving business but also a supportive community through her motherhood studies certification. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability and the never-ending journey of learning and growth. Whether you’re a single mum starting your own venture or pursuing another dream, I hope Sophie’s insights encourage and inspire you as much as they did me.
LINKS
Connect with Sophie:
Websites: https://drsophiebrock.com/
Instagram: @drsophiebrock
Connect with Erin:
Website: https://doctorerin.com.au/
Instagram: @doctorerinbowe
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-erin-bowe-81232b29/
