“I’m a bit of a stationery snob,” says parenting expert Nadia McSheffrey as she introduces her beast of a creation: The Motherlode Planner

Just the other day, I nearly had a meltdown. There were so many things I had to do – people to email back, press releases to look over, interviews to schedule, social media to manage, and of course, messages to reply to. I felt like I was seriously losing the plot.

And that’s just me talking about my own beast of a creation – Spectrum. But where does the housework and a social life fit into this?

So, here’s what I did: I cried for a little, I moaned about how tired I am. Then, I sat down, opened my desk drawer, and pulled out a planner my dad gave me. I made a list of everything I needed to do. Urgent tasks first, less important ones at the bottom. Suddenly, I felt better. I felt in control. It was like my head was a mess, but once I sat down and put everything on paper, I felt like I could handle it.

This is why I love planners. They’re such simple things, yet so effective at putting your mind at ease. And now, if you’re a parent, Nadia McSheffrey, a mother, a wife, a parenting expert, and the founder of Clean Slate Emporium, has created a tool to keep those meltdowns at bay. Introducing The Motherlode Planner – the planner of all planners, designed to help parents stay organised, focused, and calm amidst the chaos of daily life.

What’s the story behind the name “Clean Slate Emporium”?

The name ‘Clean Slate Emporium’ was born from the idea that every day offers a fresh start. As parents – especially mothers – we often carry the weight of expectations, to-do lists and the mental/emotional load, but I wanted to create something that reminds us we’re never stuck.

The word ‘Emporium’ reflects the idea that this isn’t just one thing – it’s a collection of tools, resources and inspiration to help women and families reset, refocus and thrive.

Before creating the Motherlode Planner, were you always an organised person or did this product come from a personal need?

The honest answer is: both! I’ve always loved structure, clarity and stationery to help me stay organised, but motherhood added a new level of chaos that no planner seemed to truly capture.

I found that most planners were either too rigid or too generic – none reflected the true mental load that mothers carry daily. So, in many ways, The Motherlode Planner was born out of my own need for a tool that balances organisation with flexibility.

Was there a particular moment that sparked the idea?

I’m a stationery snob and I’ve always loved paper products so this is a dream! But the turning point was during my coaching work, when I recognised just how overwhelmed and unseen so many mothers feel.

We’re keeping track of school events, meal plans, birthdays, emotional check-ins and a million other things – all while trying to take care of ourselves, too. I wanted to create something that didn’t just help manage time but actually acknowledged and supported the complexities of parenthood. That’s where The Motherlode Planner comes in. You will never need another planner again!

How does The Motherlode Planner stand out from other planner or stationery brands in the market?

It’s designed for real life. Most planners assume you have the same routine every day, but motherhood doesn’t work like that. The Motherlode Planner is built with flexibility, management and self-care in mind. It also looks fabulous (even if I do say so myself!) so I think its aesthetic helps it stand out as a luxury product.

What specific features in the Motherlode Planner do you think make it indispensable for parents?

The Motherlode Planner is more than just a place to write to-dos – it’s a tool for focusing on what truly matters. Some standout features include:

The Offload Page at the end of each week, which includes the Rose, Bud and Thorn exercise – helping you reflect on what went well, what you’re working on and any challenges you faced.

Perforated Shopping Lists that tear out easily, making grocery runs simpler – an absolute game changer for busy parents.

Parenting-Focused Themes with weekly reflection prompts and questions, offering space to pause, check in with yourself and gain perspective.

A Focus on Glimmers – those exquisite pockets of joy that happen every day but often get swallowed up by life. The planner helps you train your mind to notice and appreciate them, because when you look for the good, the good gets better.

How do you think using a physical planner compares to digital productivity tools?

There’s something powerful about putting pen to paper – it makes things feel more real and intentional. While digital tools are great for quick reminders, a physical planner gives you space to pause, reflect and plan rather than just reacting to notifications.

In fact, a 2022 study by Common Sense Media found that 62% of adults feel overwhelmed by digital notifications and productivity apps. Using a paper planner provides a screen-free space for organisation, reducing distractions and improving mental clarity.

Some parents might feel overwhelmed by structured planning and prefer to go with the flow. How would you respond to people who say planners like yours create unnecessary pressure?

I completely get that! The Motherlode Planner isn’t about rigid schedules – it’s about creating space for what matters. It’s not about doing more; it’s about doing things with more intention.

Organisation isn’t about perfection; it’s about feeling less overwhelmed.

Nadia, as a parenting expert, what is your opinion on ‘gentle parenting’?

I think there are lots of misconceptions about ‘gentle parenting’. For me, I think gentle parenting is really about respecting and understanding your child as an individual. It’s not about letting your children do whatever they want; it’s about teaching them emotional intelligence, boundaries and respect in a way that builds connection rather than fear. I have my own take on it through by ‘Tranquil Parenting’ strategies.

What’s a parenting trend or myth that drives you crazy, and why?

The idea that ‘good mothers’ can do it all without help. No one is doing this alone. We all need support, whether that’s from partners, family, friends or community. The pressure to be everything, all the time, for everyone is exhausting and unrealistic.

What’s one non-negotiable self-care habit you swear by?

I’ll have to make it a juxtaposition: movement and stillness. Whether it’s a short walk, a sea dip, yoga or just five deep breaths before the chaos begins, I always make time to move my body and slow my mind. I am naturally drawn to peace and so I tend to protect my space and fill it with quiet and calm.

What’s next for you and Clean Slate Emporium? Any exciting projects in the pipeline?

So many exciting things! I’m working on expanding the Clean Slate brand with more tools that support women beyond just planning – think mindset resources, journals and practical guides for balancing motherhood and personal growth.

You can find Nadia on Instagram @cleanslateemporium but also on Facebook and of course through the website cleanslateemporium.com.

If you’re more interested in the coaching side, then come visit Nadia at @tranquiltreehouse. You’ll see a glimpse into her real life through Instagram stories!