Meet SA Woman Member, Libby Trainor Parker
Job Role: Author. Speaker. Performer.
Tell us a bit about you:
Libby Trainor Parker is a comedian, author, cabaret tragic, teacher, radio presenter, journalist and cat parent. She has many strings to her bow and no idea how to play violin. Libby has won awards for her work in arts, education and health advocacy, particularly in endometriosis and women’s (AFAB) health. Her five-star, sell-out shows aim to empower, entertain and tickle funny bones.
Libby runs Endo Support SA, was a Director on the Board of Pelvic Pain Foundation Australia, is an affiliate member of Australian Coalition for Endometriosis (ACE), co-wrote the national schools program PPEP Talk (Periods, Pain & Endometriosis Program) and has co-authored and worked on committees for various endo research projects. She won the Women in Innovation Award for Arts in 2023, the SA Woman Allrounder Award in 2021 and Fringe Weekly Best Cabaret Award in 2021.
Following a late endometriosis diagnosis at 36 years old, Libby has dedicated her life to advocating for people with chronic illness, pain and disability through her award-winning show Endo Days and her rave-reviewed book of the same name published by Wakefield Press in 2023. She believes every person has a right to appropriate, quality health care and support.
Now with a fresh diagnosis of neurodivergence in her 40s, Libby is on another mission to empower people to learn about their bodies and brains so they can take charge of their physical and mental health.
Tell us a bit about your business and role:
Libby Trainor Parker is a comedian, author, cabaret tragic, teacher, radio presenter, journalist and cat parent. She has many strings to her bow and no idea how to play violin. She and her husband Matt have written shows about the important stuff in life, like binge-watching TV, endometriosis, falling in love in a staff room, and school sports day. Libby has won awards for her shows and her work on important things, but her greatest achievement is having a ballerina foot-arch. Her greatest challenge is having absolutely no talent for dance.
A popular motivational speaker, Libby has addressed audiences at medical conferences, universities, shows, events, educational institutions and more. She will also host your Christmas Carols event at the drop of a hat so hit her up if you need a tinselled MC with an enthusiasm for a festive tune.
What region of South Australia are you in?:
Adelaide
How can we best contact you:
Phone Number: 0413256597
Work Address: 8/205 Pirie Street Adelaide
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/libby-trainor-parker-59555a52/
Website: https://www.libbytrainorparker.com/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/libbytrainorparker
Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/libbytparker/
Let’s get to know you a little more:
What has been a lesson you learnt in your career or business that has stayed with you?
Lesson 1: If you don’t make time for your wellness, you’ll be forced to make time for your illness.
Lesson 2: When making decisions, if something doesn’t feel like a ‘hell yes’, then it’s a no. A good friend of mine says, ‘I have never once regretted saying no to taking a gig I didn’t feel right about, but I have always regretted saying yes.’ So if something doesn’t feel 100% right for you, don’t say yes. You’re not letting anyone down by preserving your boundaries and valuing yourself.
Lesson 3: Those who pay you the least will make you work the hardest. Charge your worth (and don’t do stuff for free unless it directly serves you professionally, ethically or intrinsically).
What is your favourite place in South Australia to visit?
The Riverland
Why is being part of SA Woman important to you?
Connecting with other women, supporting them and lifting each other up is the most important thing to do in a world that is not always built for us. SA Woman gives us that opportunity.
What is a quote or mantra you live by?
If it’s not a ‘hell yes’, then it’s a no.