The Motherwhelm

64 | The Motherwhelm with Sam | HELLP Syndrome, Baby Loss, Pregnancy After Loss & Finding Her Calling

In this episode of The Motherwhelm, I sit down with Sam to talk about fertility struggles, HELLP syndrome, the loss of her twins James and Poppy, pregnancy after loss, premature birth, and the experiences that ultimately led her towards a completely new career. Sam shares the story of becoming pregnant with James and Poppy after discovering she had PCOS and endometriosis. At 24 weeks, severe preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome meant Sam became critically unwell and faced the devastating reality that her babies could not be saved. We talk about grieving her babies, the support that mattered, seeking psychological help when she was finally ready, and what it was like to become pregnant again knowing that the worst really could happen. Sam also shares the intrusive thoughts and anxiety she experienced during pregnancy and postpartum after loss. Sam went on to welcome Arthur at 30 weeks and Teddy at 35 weeks, and we talk about NICU, feeding, motherhood after loss, and the complicated experience of holding enormous gratitude alongside fear and grief. But Sam’s story also became the beginning of something she never expected. After years of being cared for by midwives, nurses and doctors during some of the most vulnerable moments of her life, she left her career as a paralegal and returned to university to study nursing, with plans to become a midwife. This is a deeply moving conversation about babies who remain part of a family even when they cannot come home, the way grief changes us, and how our most painful experiences can shape the way we choose to care for others. Resources mentioned Australian Birth Stories Motherland Australia Maggie Dent Raising Boys Jess Urlichs Topics discussed: PCOS, endometriosis, fertility treatment, twin pregnancy, severe preeclampsia, HELLP syndrome, baby loss, James and Poppy, grief, psychological support, pregnancy after loss, anxiety and intrusive thoughts, premature birth, caesarean birth, medical intervention, NICU and special care, feeding and expressing, motherhood after loss, parenting after trauma, maternal identity, body image and gratitude, self-care, returning to study, career change, nursing and midwifery, compassionate maternity care, supporting mothers in NICU

63 | The Motherwhelm with Carly | Home Birth, Career Reinvention & Being Cracked Open by Motherhood

In this episode of The Motherwhelm, I sit down with Carly to talk about home birth, identity, career reinvention, and the ways motherhood can crack us open and reveal parts of ourselves we didn't know were there. Before becoming a mother, Carly spent years travelling the world before training as a midwife and supporting women through birth. She entered motherhood feeling deeply confident in birth - and soon discovered just how different it is to experience something from inside it. Carly shares the stories of her three very different home births, including a third birth that unfolded in just 45 minutes, and the lessons each taught her about control, intuition, support and the relationship between a mother and her baby. Together, we explore the transition from one child to two, to three; the impossibility of meeting everyone's needs all of the time; and what it means to learn to ask for and receive support. We also talk about the family patterns motherhood can bring to the surface, reparenting ourselves while raising our children, and learning to meet the messiness of motherhood with greater self-compassion. Carly also reflects on how becoming a mother completely changed her relationship with work. After years of living and breathing home birth midwifery, she realised she no longer wanted a career that required her to be constantly on call, leading her to reshape her work around the life she wanted with her children. This is a conversation about surrendering the version of motherhood we imagined, learning from the children in front of us, and allowing motherhood to change us rather than fighting to remain who we were before. Resources mentioned: Marion Rose Aletha Solter Aware Parenting Alfie Kohn — Unconditional Parenting Hand in Hand Parenting Sophie Brock Seed Pod Families Topics discussed: home birth, midwifery, physiological birth,precipitous labour, postpartum, travelling with children, motherhood identity, transition from one to two children, asking for support, family of origin, reparenting, self-compassion, maternal self-care, career change, lactation support, aware parenting, slowing down, presence.

62 | The Motherwhelm with Amy | Young Motherhood, Birth Choices, Autism & Redefining Success

In this episode of The Motherwhelm, I sit down with Amy to talk about becoming a mother at eighteen, navigating single motherhood, raising an autistic teenager, and redefining what success looks like through the different seasons of motherhood. Amy reflects on the judgment she experienced as a young single mum, the determination it sparked to prove people wrong, and how those early experiences shaped both her parenting and her career as a social worker supporting families. Together, we explore the realities of raising children across vastly different ages, balancing career ambitions with family life, and the way motherhood continually asks us to adapt as our children grow. We also discuss birth experiences, informed decision-making, caesarean births, VBAC, breastfeeding, body image, parenting neurodivergent children, and the importance of finding confidence in your own voice amidst the opinions of others. Amy shares how becoming a mother inspired her life's work, why she believes families deserve support rather than judgment, and how motherhood has taught her to embrace both ambition and flexibility. This is an honest conversation about resilience, advocacy, parenting across different seasons of life, and discovering that there is no single "right" way to build a family or a meaningful career. If you've ever questioned your parenting, felt the weight of other people's opinions, navigated motherhood alongside career aspirations, or raised a child with additional needs, I hope Amy's story reminds you to trust yourself and celebrate the family you're creating. Resources mentioned Matrescence by Lucy Jones The Motherhood (edited collection of letters by Australian women) I'm Just Not Myself You See by Ariane Beeston Australian Birth Stories Podcast Australian VBAC Stories Podcast Ready or Not Podcast Safe Hands (maternal and child health resources) Topics discussed: young motherhood, single motherhood, family violence, birth stories, caesarean birth, VBAC, birth choices, informed consent, breastfeeding, body image, autism, neurodivergent parenting, career and motherhood, social work, matrescence, family support, parenting identity, motherhood and ambition.

61 | The Motherwhelm with Alena | Recurrent Miscarriage, Motherhood After 40 & Somatic Healing

In this episode of The Motherwhelm, I sit down with Alena to explore recurrent miscarriage, motherhood after forty, the realities of single motherhood, and how becoming a mother can become a catalyst for healing, self-trust, and coming home to yourself. Alena reflects on becoming a mother after a life marked by parentification, instability, adversity, and a deep longing to create the family she had always imagined. She shares her experience of separating from her eldest son's father when he was a baby, navigating seven years of single motherhood, and experiencing a period of homelessness while trying to build a safe and stable life for them both. We also discuss Alena's ten pregnancies, including pregnancy termination, multiple miscarriages, IVF, and the four-year journey that eventually led to conceiving her youngest child naturally at forty-four. Alena speaks openly about the complexity of reproductive loss, why miscarriage and termination deserve compassionate and nuanced conversations, and the intuitive sense that helped her continue when others thought she should simply let go. Together, we explore the perfect mother myth, inherited family patterns, maternal rage, depletion, boundaries, and the importance of caring for yourself as a woman rather than continually abandoning your own needs. Drawing on her work as a somatic therapist, Alena shares how awareness, emotional expression, self-compassion, and reconnecting with the body can help women come home to themselves. Alena also reflects on raising children across very different seasons of her life, giving birth in her twenties and forties, the isolation of single motherhood, and the communities that helped her feel supported and understood. We talk about integrating motherhood with ambition, work, relationships, spirituality, physical strength, and the many identities a woman carries throughout her life. This is a thoughtful conversation about resilience, intuition, maternal depletion, and learning that motherhood does not magically heal us - but it can give us a powerful reason to pursue healing for ourselves. If you feel like you've lost touch with yourself while caring for everyone else, I hope Alena's story reminds you that support is available, your needs matter, and it is never too late to come home to yourself. Resources mentioned: Alena's podcast, Unboxable The Lion Life Roadmap Lael Stone Louise Hay Dr Oscar Serrallach Dr Zach Bush Pop Culture Parenting Alena's birth story on the She Births blog Topics discussed: recurrent miscarriage, pregnancy loss, termination, motherhood after forty, pregnancy in your forties, IVF, single motherhood, homelessness, motherhood after adversity, parentification, perfect mother myth, intergenerational trauma, epigenetics, intuition, somatic therapy, maternal depletion, postnatal depletion, maternal rage, boundaries, self-abandonment, self-compassion, emotional regulation, attachment parenting, motherhood identity, community, women's health, martial arts, birth experiences, postpartum support, healing and self-discovery.

60 | The Motherwhelm with Jess | Birth Trauma, NICU & Building Your Village

In this episode of The Motherwhelm, I sit down with Jess to talk about two vastly different birth experiences, the power of community, and how motherhood transformed not only the way she parents, but the woman she has become. Jess shares her journey from a fast-paced corporate career to unexpectedly becoming a mother during the COVID-19 pandemic. She reflects on preparing for an empowering physiological birth, experiencing the uninterrupted stillness of postpartum lockdowns, and later facing a completely different reality when a hidden placental haemorrhage led to an emergency caesarean birth at just 33 weeks and a NICU stay with her second baby. Together, we explore birth trauma, premature birth, the emotional complexity of having a baby in NICU, and the importance of processing difficult birth experiences rather than carrying them alone. Jess speaks candidly about rebuilding after trauma, trusting her intuition, and why every mother deserves access to compassionate birth trauma support. We also talk about the profound identity shift that comes with motherhood, leaving behind a successful corporate career, embracing slower seasons of life, and discovering a new passion for supporting women through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. One of the most beautiful parts of Jess's story is how loneliness led her to create the village she longed for - quite literally introducing herself to mothers walking past her house until a thriving community began to grow. This is a conversation about birth, healing, matrescence, and the courage to step outside your comfort zone. It's a reminder that while motherhood rarely unfolds the way we imagine, it often leads us exactly where we were meant to be. If you've experienced birth trauma, a NICU journey, the loneliness of early motherhood, or you're longing to find your village, I hope Jess's story reminds you that healing happens in connection, and sometimes all it takes is one brave conversation to change everything. Resources mentioned Books Ten Moons – Jane Hardwicke Collings The First Forty Days – Heng Ou Ina May's Guide to Breastfeeding – Ina May Gaskin Books by Sarah J. Buckley Authors & Educators Jane Hardwicke Collings Ina May Gaskin Sarah J. Buckley Topics discussed: physiological birth, birth trauma, emergency caesarean, placental abruption, retroplacental haematoma, NICU, premature birth, postpartum recovery, birth debriefing, breastfeeding, postpartum planning, motherhood identity, matrescence, career change, postpartum support, village-building, community, women's circles, motherhood friendship, intuition, COVID pregnancy, home birth planning, healing after birth trauma.

59 | The Motherwhelm with Jenna | IVF, Birth Trauma, Emotional Regulation & Trusting Yourself

In this episode of The Motherwhelm, I sit down with Jenna to talk about infertility, IVF, birth trauma, emotional regulation, and learning to trust yourself through motherhood. Jenna shares her long road to becoming a mother, from navigating endometriosis, blocked fallopian tubes, and IVF during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, to welcoming her two boys after years of longing. She reflects on the heartbreak of infertility, the emotional toll of repeated setbacks, and the profound gratitude that followed becoming a mother. Together, we explore two traumatic birth experiences, the grief of an unexpected emergency caesarean, and the deep disappointment of preparing for a VBAC that ultimately ended the same way. Jenna speaks openly about birth trauma, postpartum mental health, infant feeding challenges, and the pressure she placed on her body after feeling it had "failed" her through infertility, birth, and breastfeeding. We also discuss motherhood identity, accepting help, raising emotionally secure boys, body image after motherhood, and the ongoing work of learning to regulate our own emotions while teaching our children to regulate theirs. Jenna shares how motherhood has transformed her confidence, strengthened her relationships, and taught her to trust her instincts above the endless noise of conflicting advice. This is an honest conversation about resilience, healing, letting go of perfection, and discovering that motherhood isn't about getting everything right, it's about showing up, repairing when we need to, and growing alongside our children. If you've experienced infertility, IVF, birth trauma, difficult postpartum emotions, or you've ever questioned whether your body has let you down, I hope Jenna's story reminds you that healing is possible, and that your worth has never been defined by how your motherhood journey began. Resources mentioned: Australian VBAC Stories PodcastAustralian Birth StoriesJess UrlichsMatrescent MuseRaising Boys – Maggie DentCatherine DennyEmma Heaphy Topics discussed: IVF, infertility, endometriosis, PCOS, blocked fallopian tubes, COVID fertility treatment, birth trauma, emergency caesarean, VBAC, birth debrief, postpartum mental health, breastfeeding challenges, formula feeding, body image, motherhood identity, emotional regulation, raising boys, gentle parenting, motherhood confidence, village, trusting your instincts. Resources mentionedTopics discussed:

58 | Motherwhelm Memos | What No One Prepared Me For

In the very first episode of Motherwhelm Memos, mothers from around the world answer one simple question: What is something about motherhood that no one prepared you for? The answers are raw, funny, heartbreaking, validating, and deeply honest. From navigating mum guilt, advocating for sick children, coping with sensory overload and the relentless mental load, to grieving the loss of certainty, parenting neurodivergent children, and living with the physical realities of pregnancy and postpartum, these voice notes capture motherhood exactly as it's being lived. These aren't polished interviews or carefully crafted stories. They're real voice notes, recorded in cars, backyards, kitchens, and the small moments mothers could carve out for themselves. Because sometimes we don't need advice. We just need to hear another mother say, "Me too." If you've ever wondered whether you're the only one carrying the invisible weight of motherhood, this episode is a reminder that you are not alone.

57 | The Motherwhelm with Tahlia | Matrescence, Identity, Community & Self-Compassion

In this episode of The Motherwhelm, I sit down with Tahlia to talk about identity, community, and the often-contradictory emotions that come with becoming a mother. Tahlia shares her experience of becoming a young mum, navigating breastfeeding challenges, and the overwhelming transition into motherhood after expecting it to come naturally. Together, we explore the loneliness of being the first mother in your friendship group, the guilt of not instantly loving motherhood, and the relief of discovering that joy and struggle can exist side by side. We also discuss the pressure mothers place on themselves, the impact of birth interventions and early separation after birth, finding confidence in your own parenting, and why asking for help is one of the bravest things a mother can do. Tahlia reflects on how motherhood transformed her relationships, her career, and her sense of self, eventually leading her to create women's circles that foster the connection and community she longed for in her own postpartum journey. This is a thoughtful conversation about matrescence, identity, self-compassion, community, and learning that motherhood isn't about becoming the "perfect" mother, it's about becoming more fully yourself. If you've ever struggled with postpartum mental health, breastfeeding, loneliness, or wondered why motherhood felt so different from what you expected, I hope Tahlia's story reminds you that you're not failing, you're becoming. Resources mentioned All About Love by bell hooks Held by Tahlia (@held.bytahlia) Women's Circles facilitated by Tahlia Topics discussed: breastfeeding challenges, formula feeding, birth interventions, early separation after birth, matrescence, motherhood identity, young motherhood, postpartum support, mothers' groups, community, women's circles, self-compassion, body image, relationships after children, postpartum intimacy, parenting confidence, mental health, village, motherhood expectations.

56 | The Motherwhelm with Sarah | Preeclampsia, Birth Trauma & Late-Diagnosed Autism and ADHD

In this episode of The Motherwhelm, I sit down with Sarah to talk about severe preeclampsia, birth trauma, and being diagnosed with autism and ADHD after becoming a mother. Sarah shares her experience of a high-risk pregnancy that ended in a traumatic emergency caesarean birth at 35 weeks, a stay in ICU, and a long physical and emotional recovery. Together, we explore what it was like to begin motherhood while recovering from a near-death experience, navigating postpartum PTSD, and learning to bond with her baby while fighting to recover herself. We also discuss the guilt of not loving stay-at-home motherhood in the way she expected, the importance of having an identity beyond motherhood, and why advocating for yourself during pregnancy can be lifesaving. Sarah speaks candidly about missed warning signs, weight bias in healthcare, recognising the symptoms of preeclampsia, and the lasting impact pregnancy complications can have long after birth. Later in the conversation, Sarah shares how motherhood led her to seek an assessment for autism and ADHD, opening the door to a completely new understanding of herself. We explore sensory overwhelm, masking, late diagnosis in women, and why so many mothers discover their neurodivergence after having children. This is an honest conversation about surviving birth trauma, rebuilding after medical complications, embracing neurodivergence, and learning that motherhood can reveal parts of ourselves we never knew existed. If you've experienced preeclampsia, birth trauma, postpartum PTSD, or you've found yourself questioning your own neurodivergence since becoming a mother, I hope Sarah's story helps you feel seen and reminds you that you're not alone. Resources mentioned Say Hooray Perinatal mental health support Topics discussed: preeclampsia, severe preeclampsia, pregnancy complications, emergency caesarean, birth trauma, ICU, postpartum PTSD, postpartum recovery, premature birth, advocacy in pregnancy, medical bias, maternal mental health, motherhood identity, returning to work, autism in women, ADHD in women, AuDHD, late diagnosis, sensory overwhelm, masking, neurodivergent motherhood.

55 | The Motherwhelm with Bianca | Pregnancy After Loss, TFMR & Maternal Mental Health

In this episode of The Motherwhelm, I sit down with Bianca, a clinical psychologist and mum of two, to talk about pregnancy after loss, termination for medical reasons (TFMR), and the lasting impact of grief on motherhood. Bianca shares her extraordinary journey through an early miscarriage, the devastating loss of her daughter following a prenatal diagnosis, and the anxiety of navigating pregnancy after loss. Together, we explore the often-silenced reality of termination for medical reasons (TFMR), the complex grief that accompanies making an impossible decision, and why these experiences deserve greater understanding and compassion. We also discuss the anxiety of pregnancy after loss, navigating repeated high-risk pregnancies, advocating for yourself during birth, and the impact that difficult postpartum experiences can have on identity, perfectionism, and the mother-child relationship. Drawing on both her lived experience and her work as a psychologist, Bianca shares the strategies that helped her survive overwhelming anxiety, including the principles of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and the importance of making space for difficult emotions rather than fighting against them. This is a deeply moving conversation about grief, healing, self-compassion, and learning that motherhood is not about doing everything perfectly. It is about showing up, allowing yourself to be supported, and trusting that even after unimaginable heartbreak, joy and hope can exist alongside grief. If you've experienced miscarriage, pregnancy after loss, termination for medical reasons (TFMR), birth trauma, postpartum challenges, or you're navigating the pressure of perfectionism in motherhood, I hope Bianca's story helps you feel seen, understood, and a little less alone. Connect with Bianca Instagram: @drbiancamastromanno Topics discussed: miscarriage, termination for medical reasons (TFMR), pregnancy after loss, prenatal diagnosis, recurrent pregnancy anxiety, birth trauma, postpartum recovery, perfectionism, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), self-compassion, maternal mental health, grief, motherhood identity.

54 | The Motherwhelm with Michelle | Miscarriage, Surrender & Intentional Parenting

In this episode of The Motherwhelm, I sit down with Michelle to talk about miscarriage, motherhood after loss, surrender, and the unexpected lessons motherhood teaches us about letting go. Michelle reflects on becoming a mother after three miscarriages, navigating an emergency caesarean birth, and discovering that babies cannot be managed like projects. Together, we explore the tension between ambition and stillness, the pressure to parent perfectly, and the profound shift from living only for yourself to making decisions for your family. Michelle shares how pregnancy loss shaped her gratitude for motherhood, why community and mothers' groups became essential during the postpartum period, and the lessons she inherited from both her mother and grandmother. We also discuss raising an only child, parenting through the teenage years, creating meaningful family rituals after loss, and why surrender may be one of motherhood's greatest teachers. Motherhood also inspired Michelle to build Stella Says, a business that has grown from a thoughtfully developed head lice product into a mobile head lice removal service supporting families across Melbourne and Geelong. Her entrepreneurial journey is another reminder that motherhood can open unexpected doors, allowing women to combine purpose, creativity, and practical support for other families. This is a thoughtful conversation about grief, intentional parenting, community, and learning that motherhood isn't something we master through control - it unfolds through presence, surrender, and the courage to grow alongside our children. If you've experienced miscarriage, motherhood after loss, or you're learning to let go of perfection and embrace a more intentional way of parenting, I hope Michelle's story leaves you feeling encouraged and deeply understood. Resources mentioned Meshel Laurie (@meshel_laurie) Stella Says – stellasays.com.au Topics discussed: miscarriage, pregnancy loss, motherhood after loss, surrender, intentional parenting, family rituals, grief, emergency caesarean, career and motherhood, entrepreneurship, community, motherhood identity.

53 | The Motherwhelm with Tara | Birth Trauma, Postpartum Anxiety & Building Proud Poppy

In this episode of The Motherwhelm, I sit down with Tara, a mum of two, former emergency nurse, and founder of Proud Poppy, to talk about birth trauma, postpartum anxiety, and rebuilding yourself through motherhood. Tara shares her journey through a difficult first experience of motherhood, including a traumatic birth, postpartum anxiety and depression, infant feeding challenges, and the weight of trying to create the "perfect" family life she never had growing up. Together, we explore the pressure so many mothers place on themselves, the realities of maternal mental health, body image after children, and the lifelong work of healing childhood wounds while raising children of your own. We also discuss how motherhood became the catalyst for creating Proud Poppy, the clothing brand and community that grew from Tara's desire to help women feel seen, comfortable, and confident in their bodies. From fertility struggles and motherhood guilt to entrepreneurship, self-acceptance, and letting go of impossible standards, Tara's story is a powerful reminder that motherhood can become the beginning of finding yourself—not the end of who you are. Please note: This conversation was recorded around two years ago, so some details of Tara's business and family life have naturally changed since then. The heart of this conversation, however, remains just as relevant. If you've experienced birth trauma, postpartum anxiety, postnatal depression, or you're navigating the challenge of healing while raising your own children, I hope Tara's story reminds you that growth is possible and that you're not alone. Topics discussed: birth trauma, postpartum anxiety, postnatal depression, childhood trauma, healing childhood wounds, body image after pregnancy, entrepreneurship, Proud Poppy, self-acceptance, motherhood identity, maternal mental health, motherhood.

52 | The Motherwhelm with Elizabeth | Pregnancy After 40, Miscarriage & Fertility

In this episode of The Motherwhelm, I sit down with Elizabeth, a fertility coach and mum of three, to talk about pregnancy after 40, miscarriage, fertility, and the many unexpected turns on the path to motherhood. After years of building a successful career, freezing her eggs, and believing motherhood would happen when the time was right, Elizabeth found herself navigating fibroids, recurrent pregnancy loss, fertility treatment, and ultimately welcoming three children after the age of forty. She shares the emotional reality of becoming a mother later in life while continuing to grow two businesses and redefine what success looked like for her. Together, we explore the often-overlooked emotional impact of infertility, the experience of miscarriage, difficult caesarean births, and the challenge of balancing ambition with the demands of motherhood. Elizabeth also reflects on why pregnancy loss deserves to be spoken about more openly, the importance of finding the right support, and how motherhood reshaped her identity in unexpected ways. Elizabeth's story is one of resilience, hope, and trusting that life's timeline doesn't always unfold as planned. It's a reminder that motherhood isn't about doing everything perfectly—it's about showing up, adapting, and allowing yourself to receive support along the way. If you're navigating fertility after 40, pregnancy after 40, egg freezing, miscarriage, or trying to balance career and motherhood, I hope Elizabeth's story leaves you feeling informed, encouraged, and less alone. Connect with Elizabeth Instagram: @theofficialelizabethking Topics discussed: pregnancy after 40, fertility after 40, infertility, miscarriage, recurrent pregnancy loss, egg freezing, fertility treatment, fibroids, career and motherhood, motherhood identity, caesarean birth, fertility coaching.

51 | The Motherwhelm with Sophie | Postpartum Psychosis, Bipolar Disorder & Recovery

In this episode of The Motherwhelm, I sit down with Sophie, a mum of two, to talk about postpartum psychosis, bipolar disorder, recovery, and finding hope after severe perinatal mental illness. Just days after the birth of her first baby, Sophie experienced postpartum psychosis, a rare and severe mental health condition that completely changed the course of her motherhood journey. What followed were multiple hospital admissions, a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, a long road to recovery, and the heartbreaking question of whether she could safely have another child. Together, we explore what it felt like to lose touch with reality, the trauma of being separated from her newborn, and the extraordinary support Sophie received through a specialist Mother and Baby Unit. She also shares her experience of navigating a second pregnancy after postpartum psychosis, the return of intrusive thoughts after birth, and the ongoing process of parenting while living with bipolar disorder. This is an honest conversation about perinatal mental health, resilience, advocacy, and the courage it takes to ask for help. Sophie's story is a powerful reminder that recovery is possible, that motherhood and serious mental illness can coexist, and that no mother should ever have to navigate these experiences alone. If you or someone you love has experienced postpartum psychosis, bipolar disorder, or severe perinatal mental illness, I hope Sophie's story offers hope, understanding, and reassurance that recovery is possible. Topics discussed: postpartum psychosis, bipolar disorder, Mother and Baby Unit, perinatal mental health, psychiatric admission, intrusive thoughts, recovery, motherhood after psychosis, maternal mental health, advocacy.

50 | The Motherwhelm with Sharon | Birth Trauma, Home Birth & Medical Advocacy

In this episode of The Motherwhelm, I sit down with Sharon, a mum of two, to talk about birth trauma, home birth, informed consent, and finding your voice as a mother. Sharon shares two very different birth experiences. The first was a long and difficult hospital birth that left her physically and emotionally depleted. The second was a planned home birth that unfolded beautifully before a severe postpartum haemorrhage led to emergency surgery and a challenging hospital admission. Together, we explore the complexities of birth trauma, navigating the maternity system, medical advocacy, and what happens when parents don't feel heard. We also discuss informed consent, postnatal depression, raising children without nearby family support, building a village from scratch, ADHD and motherhood, balancing work and caregiving, and the ways motherhood has transformed Sharon's confidence, resilience, and sense of self. This is a conversation about trusting yourself, asking questions, advocating for your family, and recognising that healing often begins when mothers feel informed, supported, and empowered to use their own voice. If you've experienced birth trauma, are considering a home birth, want to better understand informed consent in maternity care, or you're rebuilding after a difficult postpartum experience, I hope Sharon's story reminds you that your voice matters. Topics discussed: birth trauma, home birth, postpartum haemorrhage, informed consent, medical advocacy, maternity care, postnatal depression, ADHD, motherhood identity, community, postpartum recovery.

49 | The Motherwhelm with Tess | Matrescence, Perfectionism & Maternal Wellbeing

In this episode of The Motherwhelm, I sit down with Tess, a mum of two and women's health occupational therapist, to talk about matrescence, perfectionism, maternal wellbeing, and the profound identity shifts of motherhood. Tess's work centres around matrescence, maternal mental health, postpartum wellbeing, and supporting mothers through one of the biggest transitions of their lives. Drawing on both her professional expertise and her own lived experience, she shares a thoughtful perspective on the emotional, physical, and relational changes that accompany becoming a mother. Together, we explore perfectionism, people-pleasing, sensory overwhelm, postpartum recovery, changing relationships, and the pressure so many women feel to live up to the impossible expectations of the "perfect mother." Tess speaks openly about the assumptions she carried into motherhood, the realities she encountered, and the deep self-reflection that has shaped both her parenting and her work. We also discuss birth experiences, preparing for the postpartum period, the importance of community, and why mothers need other mothers. This is a conversation about letting go of perfection, embracing the ongoing process of becoming, and recognising that maternal wellbeing matters just as much as infant wellbeing. If you're navigating matrescence, struggling with perfectionism, or trying to find yourself again after becoming a mother, I hope this conversation helps you feel understood and reminds you that you don't have to carry motherhood alone. Connect with Tess Instagram: @_ostara_ot Resources mentioned Instagram @mamamatters.au @seasonsofmatrescence @coreandfloorrestore @raisedgood Books The Whole-Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson Raising a Secure Child by Kent Hoffman, Glen Cooper and Bert Powell The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read (and Your Children Will Be Glad That You Did) by Philippa Perry Motherwhelmed by Beth Berry Body Full of Stars by Molly Caro May Podcasts & programs The Great Birth Rebellion Circle of Security Parenting Program Mama Matters Academy Raised Good Summit Topics discussed: matrescence, maternal wellbeing, maternal mental health, perfectionism, sensory overwhelm, people-pleasing, postpartum wellbeing, motherhood identity, occupational therapy, community, relationships after children, motherhood.

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48 | The Motherwhelm with Julia | Postpartum Psychosis, Insomnia & Recovery

In this episode of The Motherwhelm, I sit down with Julia, a mum of two, to talk about postpartum psychosis, postnatal depression, insomnia, and the long journey back to herself after becoming a mother. Julia shares how motherhood challenged the highly organised, perfection-driven identity she had built before having children. She speaks candidly about the shock of early motherhood, the relentless pressure to "get it right," and the devastating experience of postpartum psychosis and postnatal depression that followed. Together, we explore the role of insomnia in Julia's illness, the impact of severe perinatal mental illness on relationships and identity, and the courage it took to accept help and begin rebuilding her life. Her story is a powerful reminder that recovery isn't about returning to who you were before—it's about discovering who you are becoming. This is a conversation about surrendering perfectionism, healing after profound illness, and finding joy in the ordinary moments of motherhood once again. If you or someone you love has experienced postpartum psychosis, postnatal depression, postpartum insomnia, or severe perinatal mental illness, I hope Julia's story offers reassurance that recovery is possible and that no one should have to face these experiences alone. Topics discussed: postpartum psychosis, postnatal depression, postpartum depression, postpartum insomnia, perinatal mental illness, perfectionism, identity shift, recovery, motherhood, maternal mental health.

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47 | The Motherwhelm with Jen | Birth Trauma, Postpartum Anxiety & Intuitive Parenting

In this episode of The Motherwhelm, I sit down with Jen, a mum of three and founder of Sleep Thrive Grow, to talk about birth trauma, postpartum anxiety, intuitive parenting, and learning to trust yourself as a mother. Jen reflects on her first pregnancy, an emergency caesarean birth, and a difficult postpartum period marked by physical pain, postpartum anxiety, delayed bonding, and a distressing early hospital experience. She shares with great honesty how those early challenges shaped her transition into motherhood, and how they ultimately led her to question perfectionism and reconnect with her instincts. As her family grew, so did her confidence. Through two planned caesarean births, Jen embraced a more intuitive, cue-based approach to parenting, discovering that there is no one-size-fits-all path through motherhood. We also discuss feeding challenges, the impact of motherhood on relationships, and the profound exhaustion that so many mothers carry. These experiences eventually inspired Jen to found Sleep Thrive Grow, where she now supports families with compassionate, responsive, and individualised sleep guidance. Her story is a beautiful reminder that healing doesn't happen all at once—it unfolds as we learn to trust ourselves, honour our children, and let go of impossible expectations. If you've experienced birth trauma, postpartum anxiety, delayed bonding, or you're looking for a more intuitive approach to parenting, I hope Jen's story leaves you feeling reassured, understood, and empowered. Topics discussed: birth trauma, emergency caesarean, postpartum anxiety, delayed bonding, matrescence, intuitive parenting, cue-based parenting, responsive parenting, infant sleep, motherhood identity, healing, Sleep Thrive Grow.

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46 | The Motherwhelm with Anneliese | Childhood Trauma, Breaking Cycles & Solo Motherhood

In this episode of The Motherwhelm, I sit down with my Aunty Anneliese, a mother of three, to talk about childhood trauma, breaking generational cycles, and raising neurodivergent children with love and intention. Anneliese shares her extraordinary journey of becoming a mother at just 21 years old while still healing from the effects of childhood trauma and abuse. Together, we explore what it means to parent differently from the way you were parented, the courage it takes to break generational cycles, and the resilience required to keep showing up for your children while continuing your own healing. We also discuss solo parenting, raising children with ADHD and autism, and the importance of recognising and supporting neurodivergent children in ways previous generations often couldn't. Through every challenge, Anneliese's story is one of fierce love, hope, and the quiet victories that come from choosing a different path for your family. If you've experienced childhood trauma, you're working to break generational cycles, raising neurodivergent children, or navigating solo motherhood, I hope Anneliese's story reminds you that healing doesn't require perfection—it begins with choosing a different way forward. Connect with Anneliese Substack: substack.com/@anneliesesenn Topics discussed: childhood trauma, generational trauma, breaking cycles, solo motherhood, solo parenting, ADHD, autism, neurodivergence, abuse recovery, motherhood, resilience, feminist storytelling.

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45 | The Motherwhelm with Ciara | Ectopic Pregnancy, IVF & Black Maternal Health

In this episode of The Motherwhelm, I sit down with Ciara, a labour and delivery nurse, mama coach, and mother, to talk about ectopic pregnancy, IVF, postnatal depression, and the long road to motherhood. Ciara shares her deeply personal journey through ectopic pregnancy, pregnancy loss, and IVF, reflecting on the profound impact these experiences had on her body, her mental health, and her sense of self. Together, we explore the hope, heartbreak, and resilience required to keep moving forward when the path to motherhood is anything but straightforward. We also discuss perinatal mental health, Ciara's experience of postnatal depression, and the support that helped her navigate the postpartum period. Drawing on both her lived experience and her work as a labour and delivery nurse, Ciara offers thoughtful insight into the experiences of Black mothers within the maternity healthcare system and the systemic inequities that continue to contribute to disparities in maternal outcomes. If you've experienced ectopic pregnancy, IVF, pregnancy loss, postnatal depression, or you're interested in understanding Black maternal health, I hope Ciara's story leaves you feeling informed, seen, and reminded that your experience matters. Book mentioned The Nurture Revolution: Grow Your Baby's Brain and Transform Their Mental Health through the Art of Nurtured Parenting by Greer Kirshenbaum Instagram accounts mentioned @herblackwellness @antiracistnursecollective @thesleepdoctor @bundlebirthnurses Topics discussed: ectopic pregnancy, pregnancy loss, IVF, infertility, postnatal depression, perinatal mental health, labour and delivery nurse, Black maternal health, maternal healthcare, motherhood, resilience.

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