My name is Melody Jackson and my business in Breastfeeding and Beyond. I’m a GP and Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and I run a clinic for mothers and babies. I have always been passionate about women and families and this passion was really intensified after creating my own family. These days, I lead a busy life as a working Mum, but my favourite place is with my little family.

When did you start your business?
I started my business in early 2020, just as COVID was kicking off. This actually worked well for me, as I was able to fill a gap and help to support new parents as other support services were being closed due to the pandemic.

What was the inspiration behind starting this business?
I found breastfeeding very challenging in the early days of feeding my first child and did not know where or how to access support. Through months of struggling to feed my baby, I learnt a lot about breastfeeding and attachment parenting and felt that I could use what I had learnt to help others who were experiencing similar struggles. As a doctor, I am in a unique position where I can offer a “one-stop shop”, with medical knowledge, lactation and psychological qualifications and first hand experience.
 

What are you most excited about in your business?

I am most excited about the incredible mums that I get to meet every single day. Women are truly amazing and I love being able to help a new mum realise her superpower, which is simply showing up day after day for her children and her family.

What has been the most challenging thing about starting your business?
One challenging thing for me has been building networks and not feeling alone in business. The pandemic has certainly complicated this, but it is important to see colleagues as allies and not competition.
My greatest challenge has always been trying to manage my work-life balance. I want to give all to my family and all to my business, and often feel that I fall short in both. I try to address this with enlisting as much help as I can, relying on wonderful staff and creating a strong team environment at work, prioritising quality time with my family, and practising acts of self compassion when I feel inadequate.

What advice would you give to other women thinking about starting a business?

Fall in love with the idea of owning your own business. The possibilities are endless. Aim high and be persistent. You will get there!

Why did you enter the AusMumpreneur Awards?

I was nominated by a colleague and decided to enter the awards to challenge myself both personally and from a business perspective, to grow.

What did you enjoy the most about being part of the awards?

It was truly humbling to be recognised in a room full of incredible women.

 What surprised you most about the awards?

Winning! It was completely unexpected and I had a mouth full of food when my name was called out. Aside from that, the positivity, love and passion in the room was amazing. Women can achieve incredible things when we build one another up.

How did the awards help you in your business?

The awards have helped me to realise my worth and to reflect on my business, what it does offer, where it can offer, and where I have opportunity for further growth.

What advice would you give to other mums thinking about entering the awards?

Do it! You have absolutely nothing to lose and you will meet many amazing and uplifting women along the way.

What has been the best thing about starting your own business?

Being a business owner gives me a lot of freedom and control. I get to choose when and how much I work, I don’t need permission to block time to be with my children for important events, and I get to choose how I spend my days. I can’t recommend it highly enough!

What’s happening next in your business?

I’m looking to add in group classes and peer support groups for new mums, and I would love to add additional members to the team.

 What are your big plans for the future?

To grow the team so that we can meet the demand. My vision is for all Mums to know where they can go to get help, and find that help in a timely and affordable way.

What is your website and/or social media links (eg. Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram)

www.breastfeedingandbeyond.com.au

https://www.facebook.com/drmelodyjacksonGPIBCLC