09. Business, Motherhood and a CMV diagnosis: Lauren’s Story Behind the Smile

🎧 Episode Summary
In this raw and heartfelt episode of Mum Mind. Unpacked, we sit down with the incredible Lauren Smedley — mum of two, founder of Bronte Co, and one of the strongest, most grounded women we know. Lauren shares her powerful story of navigating early motherhood while launching a successful kids' swimwear label, all while facing the unimaginable: the diagnosis of her youngest son, Logan, with congenital CMV — a virus that left him profoundly deaf.

From sleepless nights and therapy appointments to late-night order packing and building a family-run business from the ground up, Lauren’s story is one of resilience, love, vulnerability, and doing what needs to be done — no matter how hard. This one will move you, inform you, and stay with you long after the episode ends.

👩‍👦 About Our Guest
Lauren Smedley is a mum of two boys — Reid and Logan — and the founder of Bronte Co, a swimwear label designed with heart and purpose. She’s also a former PA who transitioned into entrepreneurship with the support of her husband and parents. Lauren brings candid reflections on motherhood, raising a child with special needs, and keeping a business — and her spirit — afloat during life’s toughest seasons.

🗓 New Episodes on Wednesdays
Don’t forget to follow, share, and leave a review to help more mums discover the podcast!

🔗 Connect with us
📸 Instagram: @mummindunpacked
📧 Email: mummindunpacked@gmail.com

🛍 Get in touch with Lauren or shop Bronte Co’s awesome range
Support Lauren’s amazing swimwear label created for everyday families:
🌐 www.bronteco.com
📸 Instagram: @bronte_co

💬 If you or someone you know is navigating a diagnosis like CMV or raising a child with hearing loss, this episode may offer comfort, connection, and understanding.

📚 For more information about CMV
• CMV Awareness: cmv.org.au

🤝 Thanks to Our Sponsors

🌿 Kine
Natural, flushable, plastic-free body cloths for the whole family. Gentle on skin, tough on mess, kind to the planet.
💸 Use code Mum10 for 10% off at kine.com.au
📱 @kineaustralia

🥗 JNR Food Co
Ready-made, dietitian-approved kids’ meals that are high in protein, low in sodium, preservative-free — and loved by kids!
👀 Explore the full range: jnrfoodco.au

🔔 A Gentle Reminder
Our conversations are here to inform and support — not to replace professional medical or psychological advice. If you’re struggling, please reach out to one of these support services:
• PANDA: 1300 726 306
• Lifeline: 13 11 14

🔍 Keywords
Motherhood, mums, special needs, CMV, diagnosis, NDIS, resilience, Bronte Co

🙏 Thanks for Listening
If this episode touched you, please share it with a friend or fellow mum. And if you're feeling generous, we’d love a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on your favourite podcast app!

Until next time — motherhood is hard but you’re not alone. We see you.