New podcast connects with struggling mums

A new podcast that originated on the Central Coast has proved popular with parents everywhere.

Creators and hosts of Does Mum Have a Name, Nicole Mazur and Deborah Peake, say that the podcast focuses on the often-overlooked journeys of mothers, especially those who navigate the complexities of raising children with disabilities and special needs.

“Through real, unfiltered conversations, we’re giving voice to the personal stories, challenges, and triumphs that mums experience – stories that so often go unheard,” Mazur said.

“In each episode, we dive into the struggles of motherhood, resilience, and self-care, offering a platform for mums to connect, share, and feel seen.”

Also involved in the podcast is Dale Mackey, who is Mazur’s son and recently starred in the ABC’s The Assembly, sharing the skills he learnt while filming. 

The Iris Foundation sponsored the recent launch party which brought together selected people from the community and the podcast is now streaming on YouTube, Spotify and TikTok. 

“Both Deb and I are behaviour practitioners who have worked together for years, and we often talked about how we wished we could help mums who felt lost or struggle with identity,” Mazur said. 

“We originally wanted to write a book, but we have had great response to the podcast.”

Mazur said the podcast aimed to connect with mums like herself.

“I was one of those mums, three boys, two with autism, my daughter died of cancer, I had cancer last year and as a mum I wished I had someone to go to for advice or just a friendly voice reminding me to practise self-care,” she said.

“So, the inspiration came from every family we have ever worked with, every mum we have had to walk away from knowing we wished we could do more.”