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A single mother, who used to work 50 to 60 hour weeks just 14 days after a C-section, now makes six figures and travels the world with her son — including to destinations such as Bali, Thailand and Dubai
A woman who worked 50-60 hour weeks to survive as a solo mum just two weeks after a C-section now travels the world with her son.
When single mum Lea Turner gave birth to her son, Dexter, in September 2015, she had no family nearby or any friends. Working 50-60 hour weeks with Dexter on her lap, Lea eventually scaled-up her business, supporting other business owners. Now Lea earns six figures and works flexibly around her son and their travels.
Together the duo have been to Lapland, Bali, Thailand, Mexico and more. Lea said: “Looking back, I couldn’t tell you how I managed it. I just did, because letting him down was not an option.
“Travelling together is so exciting and gives us a shared sense of confidence, adventure and curiosity. I want Dexter to experience different cultures, climates and communities.”
After having Dexter, Lea worked hard to afford her bills. “Most of my work at that time was transcribing medicolegal reports and I also transcribed a lot of homebuyers surveys for building consultants,” she shared.
Lea says that all the hard work has been worth it to see and cuddle Dexter after work each day. “Every morning he comes into my bedroom for a cuddle and to tell me he loves me and that I’m the best. And there’s nothing that could motivate me more to get up and get going – even coffee,” she added.
Life got better when Lea became her own boss and could work from home. The flexibility allowed her to be both a mother and work. “I constantly wish there was more of a village around me. My closest support was over an hours’ drive away,” she said.
“They would come over in an emergency. I suffered migraines regularly and they would drop everything to help.”
After launching her second business during the pandemic and her current project – a podcast for small businesses – Lea realised she was her son’s only role model. “I want him to witness me working hard. We’re a team and we face the hardships and challenges of life together and we overcome them,” she continued.
“Dexter wasn’t planned, but he’s been the best plot twist ever. He’s brought out a strength in me I had no idea I had. To me, it just feels like I have done what needed to be done to give him the life he deserves.
“I lost my dad when he was just 41 and I was 10 years old, so for me, ensuring I pack as many wonderful experiences into the time I’m here with Dexter is hugely important, because I don’t take it for granted how precious every second is when it’s with someone you love,” Lea concluded.
