Hey, where was that bra when I was pumping every 3 hours? I swear this was not a thing in 2003 and if it was, shame on everyone for not telling me. Anyhow, sleeplessness, childcare woes, sick kids, sex after baby, work/life balance, mom shaming, and every boob topic under the sun is dealt with in this half hour comedy-drama. Season 1 of Workin’ Moms even includes a storyline about abortion and touches on the topic of suicide. I know that doesn’t all sound like sitcom material, but with all the joys and horrors of motherhood, an unblinking portrayal along with the laughs might be just the validation many moms need.
Netflix is airing Season 1 of Workin’ Moms as a Netflix Original (though they didn’t produce it, they have the rights for international streaming). Two more seasons have already aired in Canada.
It’s All True, Sort Of
Catherine Reitman, daughter of director Ivan Reitman (Ghostbusters, Kindergarten Cop) created and co-produces the show with her husband Philip Sternberg. Reitman pulled generously from her own experiences as a working mother to bring honesty to the show. Every episode in Season 1 opens with a “Mommy and me” type playgroup that has the ladies asking questions, comparing stories, and sometimes judging each other. I can totally relate as I had a similar experience with my firstborn. One particular mother liked to put me down in the group and then implement my ideas in private.
Don’t be that mom!
Meet the Ladies
Season 1 follows four mothers faced with different complications as they return to work after having a baby. Kate (Catherine Reitman) who works in PR has a myriad of problems from an opinionated nannie, an aging dog, and interfering family. Additionally, Kate struggles at work to be one of the boys while pumping breast milk and attempting to get home for bath time. Anne (Dani Kind) works from home but can’t seem to bond with her 9 year old daughter while raising her newborn. A big wrench is thrown into her life early in the season. Jenny (Jessalyn Wanlim) struggles to deal with her emo stay at home husband/writer while pondering what sex would be like with her new boss. Lesbian Frankie (Juno Rinaldi) has the most difficult time with a successful transition back to work as postpartum depression takes over. Intimacy issues that plague her relationship with her partner Giselle (Olunike Adeliyi) only increase the emotional toll and the consequences are severe.
Validation
Like any parents, these ladies fail, succeed, laugh, and cry. Workin’ Moms plays out all the highs and lows of parenting that every parent can relate too. Netflix plans to air seasons 2 and 3 of Workin’ Moms but has yet to announce release dates. If you’re a mom who needs to know “it’s not just you” or you’re just looking for some good storytelling, check out Workin’ Moms.
