Be-Generative News #2: My Journey as a Mum and Founder - 28 Years of Flexible Work

Be-Generative News?is a weekly newsletter that explores innovative regenerative solutions, shares updates on Our Kinds' journey to end single-use coffee culture and offers actionable insights for sustainability leaders.

28 Years of Flexible Work: My Journey as a Mum and Founder (plus 7 Best Practices to Support and Retain Great Talent)

For 28 years, flexible work has been my lifeline as a working mum and female founder. This newsletter is for current and potential employers of working mums—those who can enable their team to thrive by offering support, compassion, and opportunity.

Sometimes, it's as simple as a few words: “Wow!” “You can do anything.” “It’s okay, I have your back.”

These phrases changed my career and life. Here are some of the best practices that helped shape my journey, highlighted by the incredible people who embodied them.

Best Practice #1: Offer Flexibility and Trust

Providing the flexibility to manage both work and family is invaluable for working mums.

Ron Silberberg, Housing Industry Association (HIA) , 1997: Just ten days after having my first child, Ron offered me a promotion from ACT Marketing Manager to Major Event Manager, leading a team of 27 and overseeing 500 events annually. He made the opportunity possible by offering to pay for my mum to travel with me. This level of trust allowed me to take on a significant role while raising a newborn.

Ken Matthews, Chair of KidNest, until December 2020: When I decided to move to Perth with a new partner, Ken responded supportively: “Phew, I thought you were going to resign. I’m glad you have a new partner. This is a tough gig, and it’s good to have support at home. Enjoy Perth.” His understanding made the transition smoother.

Best Practice #2: Tailor Growth Opportunities

Giving employees the freedom to grow their roles at their own pace empowers them to take ownership of their professional development.

David Marshall, Austereo, 1993: David offered me a junior role with the promise that I could grow as fast as I enabled it. This promise was kept, allowing me to take on new responsibilities in stakeholder engagement and build a solid professional network. When I resigned, he remarked, “I didn’t think we’d keep you for so long.”

Athina Georgiou , QEC, Melbourne, Australia, 2015: Before leading QEC’s introduction to the Federal Parliament, Athina told me, “You are the best we have, and I believe you can do anything.” Her confidence in my abilities strengthened my self-belief during a crucial time.

Best Practice #3: Show Empathy

Supporting employees during personal challenges builds loyalty and trust.

Tony Nagy , Friend and Business Advisor, 2018: During a difficult period after my separation, Tony provided a solution I hadn’t considered. He found a beautiful iron house in South Melbourne for my kids and me to rent, allowing us to settle into a new rhythm. His empathy made all the difference during a challenging time.

KidNest Investors, 2021: After my dismissal as CEO of KidNest, the investors reassured me with words of kindness: “It’s okay, Karen". "We know you did your best". "We’ve seen this before". “This is not unusual.” "Take a break". "Good luck.” Their compassion provided much-needed comfort during a tough period.

Best Practice #4: Encourage and Empower

Small words of encouragement can make a huge impact on someone’s confidence and belief in themselves.

Mark, IPAM Investments, Wilmslow, UK, 1985: As a 22-year-old nurse with no investment experience, Mark saw potential in me and said, “You can probably do anything.” That simple statement changed the course of my career, enabling my transition into the investment world.

Joshua Dorst , Our Kinds, Perth, Australia, 2021: Joshua, our first intern, expressed his unwavering belief in Our Kinds by saying, “I believe in Our Kinds.” His support over nearly three years has been instrumental in our growth.

Best Practice #5: Balance Work-Life Needs

Providing practical support for work-life balance, like childcare or travel assistance, can make all the difference for working parents.

Romilly Madew AO FTSE HonFIEAust EngExec , Opera by George, Lake George, NSW, 1999: Romilly not only lent me her nanny during work conferences but also made crew t-shirts for my kids, making them feel part of the team. Her support was crucial in balancing my professional responsibilities with caring for my children.

Ron Silberberg, Housing Industry Association (HIA), Canberra, Australia, 1997: In addition to his promotion offer, Ron provided practical support that allowed me to manage my new role while raising a newborn, demonstrating a true understanding of work-life balance.

Best Practice #6: Recognise and Appreciate

Acknowledging contributions and showing appreciation for hard work fosters a strong sense of loyalty.

David Marshall, Austereo, 1993: David’s words when I resigned, “I didn’t think we’d keep you for so long,” reflected his appreciation for my dedication and the impact of my work. Recognising and valuing employees’ contributions can leave a lasting impression.

Daniel Tippett, KOJO Events, Melbourne, Australia, 2009: After a hectic period, Daniel gave me a much-needed break by saying, “You need a break, so YOU are taking this hosted trip to Port Douglas, and we have paid for Peter to join you.” This gesture provided the space I needed to reset and recharge.

Best Practice #7: Foster a Supportive Culture

Creating a culture where it’s okay to speak up and make changes without fear fosters long-term loyalty and trust.

Chairman, Master Builders Association, Canberra, Australia, 1995 When I resigned from a new role after six weeks because it wasn’t the right cultural fit, the chairman responded, “Don’t sweat it, Karen. Life goes on.” His respectful approach demonstrated the value of a healthy workplace culture.

Mary Anne Anderson, Coralus, Brisbane, Australia, 2024 Mary Anne introduced me to Coralus, saying, “I want to bring you into Coralus. This is a network that can support Karen Monaghan and Our Kinds in more ways than money.” Joining Coralus provided a supportive community that further enriched our workplace culture.

Christianna Cobbold, HIA, Canberra, Australia, 1997 Christianna guided me through difficult situations with wise counsel: “You need to understand that [anonymous] truly believes his own propaganda. Let the emotion of knowing there is a lie there go and focus on the outcome that you need.” Her advice helped me navigate challenges effectively.

These practices demonstrate the power of flexibility, empathy, and support in creating a workplace that values its employees, especially working mums.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone mentioned in this newsletter and the countless others who have supported me throughout my journey. I also want to thank all of you who continue to support Our Kinds in our mission to create a sustainable future. Your impact has been immeasurable.

Take a moment today—can you offer energy, ease, or opportunity to someone on your team or in your life? I bet you can.

I would love to hear your stories of being seen, supported, and held in your professional and personal lives.

Karen Monaghan

#60yearsold #mother #ceo #entrepreneur #femalefounder

Resources for working parents (a true regenerative economy)

• Early Parenting Centres like QEC, Tweddle, Karitane, Tresillian and Ngala have incredible resources and programs to support new parents returning to work and more
• For solo Dads you could follow Michael Ray
• Parents at Work have lots of resources
• Every now and then you might need legal advice. Burch & Co dealt with a couple of difficult situations for me. You should always feel like you can reach out to someone for advice. Don’t sweat it out on your own. Let others deal with the tricky stuff.

This Week In Our Kinds ?

What a huge week!

• Kate Stitfold (Hospitality Lead) and Beth Temperley (Tech / Product Lead and PM) met for the first time in Melbourne.?
• We have had several exciting meetings with different business ‘desperate’ for solutions to single use waste leading to more redesign of the supply chain??
• Karen managed to do her first crow pose at hot yoga #itsnevertoolate
• We're still searching for a P/T marketing volunteer - see details here.

Community Member Profile: Renee Cheah

We love to catch up with past and present collaborators, and this week, Kate and Karen caught up with the dynamic?Renee Cheah?– an intern with Our Kinds in our early days and now a student liaison at RMIT.??

Renee led our competitor research amongst other things and was amazed at how the model is still unique – globally.

JOIN THE MOVEMENT

We’re not just talking about change—we’re making it happen together. Join us as we continue to build this movement and BE the change we want to see.

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