Judged Either Way: The Harsh Realities of Parenting and Career Choices

No matter what choice you make as a parent—staying home, going back to work, or trying to juggle both—someone is always judging. In this episode of My Crazy Uncle Dave’s Podcast, we dive into the realities of modern parenting with two brilliant guests: Gráinne Dunne and Claire Marshall.

We unpack the tough decisions parents face, from career sacrifices and financial pressures to the emotional weight of raising kids. We explore:

• The stigma around stay-at-home parents vs. working parents.
• Why finances play a bigger role in parenting choices than many admit.
• How flexible work and self-employment are changing the game.
• The invisible labour of managing a household and why it’s undervalued.
• Why society needs to stop judging parents and let people make the best choice for their families.

We also touch on personal stories—from struggling with confidence after taking time off work to the unexpected pressures of being the main breadwinner.

This episode is an honest, no-filter conversation about the choices, challenges, and judgments parents face in 2025. Whether you’re a stay-at-home parent, a working professional, or somewhere in between, this one’s for you.

🎧 Tune in now and let us know—have you felt judged for your parenting choices?

📌 Gráinne Dunne – LinkedIn

📌 Claire Marshall – LinkedIn

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