Content warning: this episode discusses pregnancy, fertility and abortion.

When Michelle Battersby announced her pregnancy to her Instagram followers, there was no pretty picture with two lines, no ultrasound, no baby bump. Instead, she shared something deeply personal. Something that, as a founder who is often looked to for career inspiration, she felt compelled to be open about. And that was that she’d previously had two abortions for her career.

We know that the mental load of family planning when it comes to career can start a lot earlier for women. Is a long university course worth it if I want to have a baby at around 30? Do I go for that promotion when I’m pregnant? What are the most flexible careers for mothers? How long should I be at the one company before I start trying to conceive? The list goes on…

But, Michelle’s take – that is deliberately delaying motherhood for her career – isn’t one that’s often spoken about publicly, so it’s fair to say her story and honesty caught my attention.

Here, we talk the wild ride that was bringing Bumble to Australia, how she felt when she pressed post on her pregnancy announcement, navigating her business Sunroom alongside pregnancy, and how her badge of honour is changing.

---

THIS WEEK'S PARTNER

 This episode of Ready or Not is brought to you by us, Witching Hour co-hosts Loz and Lu. We'll be releasing our first Ready or Not go to guides dropping on the 1st of April. We've created three practical and comprehensive guides, starting with breastfeeding and returning to work, postpartum planning for the 4th and 5th trimester and childcare 101.

Sign up for here early access and a cheeky discount code: readyornot.au/subscribe

---

Thanks for listening to Ready or Not! If you liked the show, please tell your friends, subscribe or write a review.

You can also find us on Instagram at readyornot.pod

---

This podcast was recorded on the lands of the Boon Wurong people of the Kulin Nation. The land on which we're lucky enough to raise our sons and daughters always was and always will be Aboriginal land.

We Pay The Rent and you can too here.