In this episode, we sit down with Hayley Brown, a passionate sign language interpreter, to explore her unique career journey and the life experiences that have shaped her along the way. Hayley opens up about challenges like single parenting, overcoming relationship struggles, and the influence of personal tragedies on her passion for communication.

Below are some key highlights from our conversation:

1. Single Parenting & Vulnerability

Hayley shares the raw realities of being a solo parent and how it impacts a woman's ability to embrace vulnerability. She explains how single mothers often lack the space to express their feelings freely, needing remain strong for their children.

2. The Impact of Losing Her Mum to Alcoholism

Hayley’s mother passed away when Hayley was 25 after battling alcoholism and loneliness. This tragic loss instilled fears around loneliness and influenced Hayley’s beliefs around being alone.

3. Dyslexia and the Drive for Communication Accessibility

Growing up with dyslexia and witnessing her mother’s struggle to communicate openly about her battles inspired Hayley to champion communication accessibility for all. Her work as a sign language interpreter is deeply rooted in her belief that everyone deserves to be heard and understood.

4. Overcoming Confidence Blocks in Relationships

In her personal life, Hayley has faced confidence blocks due to a lack of healthy relationship dynamics being modelled during her childhood. These experiences led to trauma-bonded relationships, but through self-growth, Hayley has shifted toward healthier relationship patterns.

5. Facing Criticism and Finding Her Voice Online

For years, Hayley struggled with criticism, particularly accusations of being “attention-seeking.” This blocked her at times, from pursuing a presence on social media and starting her own podcast. In this episode, she shares how she overcame these internal obstacles and found the confidence to put herself out there.

6. Walking 24 Hours for Charity

Hayley pushed herself to her limits by walking for 24 hours to raise funds for a deaf charity, documenting the entire experience. During this vulnerable time, a fellow interpreter accused her of “stealing the deaf limelight,” leading to discussions around projection, envy, and the negativity often found in online spaces.

7. Why Negative Comments Stick More than Positive Ones

A powerful moment in the episode was our conversation on how negative feedback often leaves a more lasting impression than positive feedback.

8. Pivotal Life Confidence Moments

Finally, Hayley reflects on the key moments in her life that helped shape her confidence and resilience, including how these experiences contributed to her career as a sign language interpreter.

Tune in to hear Hayley’s moving story, her insights on relationships, communication, and self-growth, and how she’s turned her personal challenges into professional strength.

Contact Hayley Brown:

Instagram: @hayleybrown_andco

Podcast instagram: inadequatemothers