Where were you at in your music career when you had your first child? Was there much discussion about how that life choice would affect your career within the music/entertainment industry?

When I had my first child, I was touring a lot. A LOT! In her first year, we played about 80 shows, and it was a joyful but very stressful experience - I didn't feel like I could take a step back from the road at that point, as our band was on an upward trajectory and I was concerned what the time away would mean for our creative well being and financial success.
Both times I was pregnant I was really excited but also very scared for the future of my job - how would I manage on the road? Would my partner be able to come with me to support? How could I afford childcare? What affect would this have on my little family? So many questions without sure fire answers!

As a working parent in the music industry, what are some of the biggest challenges you face or have faced?

The most difficult part of being a working parent in the music industry, and specifically relying on touring income to make a living, is the need to be away from home. No matter how much support you have on the home front there's a disruption to the family, and a lot of pressure on partners/parents, etc to fill the gaps while you're away. I'm feeling this even more as my kids get older! There's a huge emotional toll on everyone as well; I find it very hard to be away from my littles and also really expensive to take them on tour. A total and constant challenge...

What is one change (big or small) within the industry that could make a positive impact for working parents?

Paid parental leave would be hugely beneficial, or at the very least access to some funding in order to reduce the need to be on tour soon after having a baby.

How do you find support and community with other working parents in or out of the music industry?

Word of mouth - most of my support has been from friends and other parents in the industry.

What’s one specific example of an organization/venue/company doing something great to help support working parents?

The National Folk Festival in Canberra, AUS has THE BEST children's area I've ever seen. Being there with my kids a few years ago was incredible - I felt like they really made families feel seen and welcome in a way that isn't the same at many other festivals.

What could a music event (festival, conference, etc.), do or provide to make it easier for you to participate?

Having childcare accessible at conferences and festivals to parents would make it easier for us to participate, particularly when young children have to be on the road with us (for various reasons). I know lots of great festivals are creating baby and child-friendly spaces which include nursing tents and quiet rooms, and that's a great star!

Can you shout out another music mama doing great things?

It's inspiring to see young mom Abigail Lepell out there doing her thing with her baby!