22. On Expectations

22. On Expectations

From Holding Space for Unicorns by Alicia Payne

April 8, 2026 · 6 min · Season 122

About this episode

Alicia reflects on the expectations surrounding different life chapters and the balance between personal and professional fulfillment.

A solo reflection sparked by the Easter long weekend and the expectations we can hold around different chapters of life. In this episode, I share some thoughts on the mental load at home, the fulfilment of work, the support of family and friends, and the reminder that both things can be true. A conversation about holding a lot, letting go of how we thought life should look, and giving voice to what’s been sitting just beneath the surface. About Alicia Payne Alicia is a mother of two young children, and a Client Account Executive at Nitro Software in Melbourne, Australia. Her tech career spans 16 years across channel and direct sales, working for Australian and Global organisations where she has grown and thrived. Alicia loves working in high growth organisations in scaling teams, and helping customers solve their business challenges with best in class technologies. Prior to working in technology sales, Alicia graduated with a Master of Music from Monash University, performed with Victorian Opera in their chorus and taught Vocal Studies at several independent schools in Melbourne. Connection is one of her greatest values and her passion is empowering others to find their voice…

People in this episode

Host: Alicia Payne

Topics covered

  • expectations
  • mental load
  • work fulfillment
  • family support
  • life chapters

Keywords

  • expectations
  • mental load
  • work
  • family
  • life reflection

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Nitro Software, Victorian Opera, Victorian Chorale

Books & works: Master of Music

Places: Melbourne

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