The Hearth

21. Navigating Maternity Leave as a Small Business Owner

May 11, 2023 Candice Elliott
The Hearth
21. Navigating Maternity Leave as a Small Business Owner
Show Notes

In today’s episode, we talk about navigating maternity leave as a small business owner.


CONTENT WARNING: I talk about abortion, childbirth, miscarriage, depression, anxiety, and postpartum.


My husband and I are having another baby in August, and I wanted to share my approach to maternity leave.


Here’s a sneak peek of the episode:


  • I share my experience of not being well cared for within our traditional Western medical system.
  • Deciding to have my care with a midwife and my experience with her.
  • Shutting down my business for four months when my first son, Algernon, was born.
  • Finding childcare when I went back to work.
  • The challenges I faced when I opened up my business again.
  • Working with someone who specializes in maternity leave.


This show has been created for you, and we want to hear from you. Tell me how you are challenged, how you are inspired, and the kinds of conversations you like hearing the most.



If something you heard today brought a smile to your face or a spark to your heart, and you’d like to connect with me, here are a few ways you can do that.

One is my newsletter, it’s where I put most of my time and energy when I’m not working with clients or on this podcast. Sorry social media! It’s a mix of real life stories, tips and tricks and of course updates on what’s happening with the podcast. Whenever something is going on with me or in my business, it always comes out there first.


Another resource that I have for you is my Guide to Doing Work Differently. The guide takes you through four inquiries into how you can build a more sustainable and equitable work environment for yourself and your team. It's a great place to start.


Last, if you’ve got a burning question, a comment, or a situation you’d like my eyes on, you can email me at candice@fortressandflourish.com.


If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe to know when the next episodes come out, and if you’re feeling generous, leave a review. Reviews help other like-minded folks find their way to this resource.


Learn more about Candice and her work here.