The Postpartum Season

Laura Taneja | Sharing honest postpartum stories

The Postpartum Season is a podcast dedicated to honest conversations about life after birth.
Hosted by Laura, each episode explores the realities of the postpartum period through open, compassionate conversations with mothers and trusted health professionals.
Motherhood is often portrayed as either beautiful or difficult, but the truth is that it can be both at the same time. This podcast creates space for the full picture—the joy, the love, the identity shifts, the exhaustion, the healing, the challenges, and everything in between.
Whether you're preparing for your first baby, navigating the early weeks postpartum, returning to work, or simply looking for reassurance that you're not alone, The Postpartum Season is here to support you.
Because every postpartum experience is different, but no one should have to navigate it feeling alone.

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23 episodes
weekly
Avg 46 min
English

Episodes 23

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Monday · 1 hr 13 min
EP 24 | Lucinda - Sleep Deprivation, Infant Temperament, Returning to Work, Ready or Not and The Reality of Juggling Parenting and Paid Work
In this episode, Lu shares her experiences of becoming a mum to Ray and Posie, and how motherhood has shaped her relationship with work, identity and what she values most. We discuss: Ray arriving unexpectedly four weeks early Ray spending his first week in special care and the difficulty of leaving hospital without her baby Establishing breastfeeding and the support Lu received from the midwives around her Feeling incredibly held by family and friends during early postpartum Experiencing the baby blues, nighttime dread and loneliness Becoming unexpectedly pregnant again around one year postpartum Struggling physically and emotionally during the first trimester while parenting a young child Lu’s experience of going from one child to two Posie’s unsettled temperament and significant sleep challenges The enormous impact prolonged sleep deprivation can have on a parent’s wellbeing Feeling pressure to follow routines and “fix” a baby’s sleep Recognising the role of infant temperament and letting go of self-blame The judgment and unsolicited commentary mothers can experience Why motherhood can feel lonely even when you have people around you Returning to freelance work after becoming a mother Starting and growing Ready or Not with co-host Loz alongside motherhood The realities of trying to balance paid work and caring responsibilities Why there is no perfect blueprint or “hack” for combining motherhood and work How motherhood has reshaped Lu’s values, priorities and relationship with time Why sometimes the most helpful thing we can offer another mother is validation Lu is the co-host of Ready or Not, a podcast exploring the realities of motherhood, careers and trying to make the two work together. You can find Lu on Instagram at @lucindamckimm_ and Ready or Not at @readyornot.pod. And if you would like to buy a Postpartum Season cap, click this link below: https://www.thepostpartumseason.com/store/p/the-postpartum-season-cap Thank you for supporting the podcast! As mentioned in the episode, here are some postpartum support resources. Please reach out if you need help. Australia PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) Helpline: 1300 726 306 Website: https://www.panda.org.au Lifeline Australia 13 11 14 (24/7) Website: https://www.lifeline.org.au Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 Website: https://www.beyondblue.org.au New Zealand PlunketLine 0800 933 922 (24/7) Healthline New Zealand 0800 611 116 (24/7) 1737 Need to talk? Call or text 1737 (24/7) Thank you for listening. Take care x
August 24 · 1 hr 17 min
EP 23 | Lilly - Slowing Down in Postpartum, Career & Identity, an Unsettled Baby & Matrescence
In this episode, Lilly shares her postpartum experiences with her two boys, Roo and Franklin. We discuss: Becoming a mother after years of supporting women as a midwife Roo’s emergency caesarean birth under general anaesthetic Processing an unexpected birth experience and wanting to “make up for lost time” The intense vulnerability and hormonal shifts of early postpartum Lilly’s unexpected instinct to stay home, slow down and protect her postpartum space Learning to listen to her own needs rather than expectations from the outside world Gradually re-emerging into the world when she felt ready Finding connection with other mothers through pilates and walking groups Why “mums need mums” The huge shift in Lilly’s relationship with her career after becoming a mother The complexities of combining motherhood with shift work, on-call work and a career in healthcare Preparing Roo for the arrival of his sibling Meeting Franklin after a very rapid vaginal birth The transition from parenting one child to two Recovering from mastitis in the early weeks postpartum Navigating weeks of having a very unsettled baby The emotional impact of prolonged crying and questioning yourself as a mother The small, practical acts of self-care and self-preservation that helped Lilly through The impact of having a second baby on Lilly and Ben’s relationship Matrescence and becoming a new version of yourself with each baby What Lilly found unexpected about her postpartum experiences The physicality, vulnerability and extraordinary love of motherhood Lilly also co-hosts Growing, a podcast with fellow midwife and mum Beth. Together they share honest conversations about their current “growing pains” and the beautiful “glimmers” that exist throughout motherhood. I absolutely loved listening to Growing throughout my own postpartum period and highly recommend giving it a listen. You can find Growing at @growingthepodcast and Lilly at @lillian.beth. This is the podcast episode that discusses unsettled babies that Lilly recommends in the episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/episode-19-unsettled-babies-with-dr-eliza-hannam/id1697674632?i=1000636691242 And if you would like to buy a Postpartum Season cap, click this link below: https://www.thepostpartumseason.com/store/p/the-postpartum-season-cap Thank you for supporting the podcast! As mentioned in the episode, here are some postpartum support resources. Please reach out if you need help. Australia PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) Helpline: 1300 726 306 Website: https://www.panda.org.au Lifeline Australia 13 11 14 (24/7) Website: https://www.lifeline.org.au Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 Website: https://www.beyondblue.org.au New Zealand PlunketLine 0800 933 922 (24/7) Healthline New Zealand 0800 611 116 (24/7) 1737 Need to talk? Call or text 1737 (24/7) Thank you for listening. Take care x
August 17 · 1 hr 6 min
EP 22 | Hannah - Birth Trauma, Postnatal Anxiety and Depression, Preparing for Postpartum, Finding Your Village and Nappy Free
In this episode, Hannah shares her two very different postpartum experiences with her sons, Hugo and Oscar. We discuss: Preparing extensively for birth but very little for postpartum A long and traumatic first birth involving forceps and an episiotomy The reality of a slow and painful postpartum recovery Learning to breastfeed and seeking support from a lactation consultant Anxiety around Hugo’s weight and the impact of comments about having a small baby Caring for a baby who cried frequently and struggled with daytime sleep Loneliness, perfectionism and feeling like she wasn’t getting motherhood “right” Being diagnosed with postnatal depression and anxiety The relationship between Hannah’s birth trauma and her postpartum mental health Processing her first birth through a birth debrief with her private midwife Preparing differently for Oscar’s birth and postpartum period Hannah’s home birth with Oscar and how different her recovery felt Intentionally creating a village before her second baby arrived Asking family for regular practical support and joining another parent group How Trent supported Hannah’s sleep and mental health during her second postpartum experience The difference between the transition from zero to one and one to two for Hannah Making time for movement and things that support her wellbeing The story behind Hannah’s business, Nappy Free What elimination communication is and how Hannah used it with both of her children Supporting families through elimination communication and toilet training Looking back on a difficult first postpartum experience with greater compassion Finding joy in the small, everyday moments of motherhood You can connect with Hannah and learn more about Nappy Free on Instagram at @nappy_free or at nappyfree.net. If you would like to buy a Postpartum Season cap, click this link below: https://www.thepostpartumseason.com/store/p/the-postpartum-season-cap Thank you for supporting the podcast! As mentioned in the episode, here are some postpartum support resources. Please reach out if you need help. Australia PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) Helpline: 1300 726 306 Website: https://www.panda.org.au Lifeline Australia 13 11 14 (24/7) Website: https://www.lifeline.org.au Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 Website: https://www.beyondblue.org.au New Zealand PlunketLine 0800 933 922 (24/7) Healthline New Zealand 0800 611 116 (24/7) 1737 Need to talk? Call or text 1737 (24/7) Thank you for listening. Take care x
August 10 · 1 hr 4 min
EP 21 | Sasha - Three Postpartum Experiences, Postnatal Mental Health, Asking for Help & Finding Your Village
In this episode, Sasha shares her experiences of becoming a mum to her three children, Elke, Remi and Bowie, and reflects on how different each of her postpartum seasons has been. We discuss: The baby blues and adjusting to motherhood for the first time The pressure to “bounce back” and prove that life hadn’t changed after having a baby Returning to paid work and the impact on Sasha’s mental health Experiencing postnatal mental health challenges after the births of her children Recognising when she needed more support and reaching out for professional help The impact of parenthood on Sasha and her husband Jesse’s relationship The importance of recognising and supporting partners’ mental health too Moving closer to family and the difference having practical support made Navigating postpartum differently the third time around Learning to be more open about struggling and accepting help Letting go of the expectation that we should be able to do everything ourselves Why finding—and actually using—your village matters Sasha shares incredibly openly about some of the hardest periods of her postpartum experiences, but also about what she has learnt through them - that asking for help is not a weakness, that both parents can struggle at the same time, and that we were never meant to raise our families alone. Sasha is currently training for the 2026 Point to Pinnacle, known as the hardest half marathon in the world, to raise funds for the Gidget Foundation. If you are able to contribute to Sasha’s fundraising efforts, you can do so here: https://pointtopinnacle2026.grassrootz.com/gidget-foundation-australia/village-walks If you would like to buy a Postpartum Season cap, click this link below: https://www.thepostpartumseason.com/store/p/the-postpartum-season-cap Thank you for supporting the podcast! As mentioned in the episode, here are some postpartum support resources. Please reach out if you need help. Australia PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia)Helpline: 1300 726 306Website: https://www.panda.org.au Lifeline Australia13 11 14 (24/7)Website: https://www.lifeline.org.au Beyond Blue1300 22 4636Website: https://www.beyondblue.org.au New Zealand PlunketLine0800 933 922 (24/7) Healthline New Zealand0800 611 116 (24/7) 1737 Need to talk?Call or text 1737 (24/7) Thank you for listening. Take care x
August 3 · 55 min
EP 20 | Loz - The realities of postpartum, the pressure and expectation on mothers, learning to give yourself grace, and the joys of this season of life
In this episode, we discuss: Becoming a mother for the first time Feeling underprepared for the realities of postpartum Physical recovery after birth and adjusting to life with a newborn Why society still doesn't talk openly enough about postpartum A difficult breastfeeding experience with her first baby Mum guilt and the mental load of parenting Learning to give yourself grace in motherhood Why children don't all fit the same mould Supporting children through big emotions without unrealistic expectations Welcoming a second and third baby and life as a family of five A very different breastfeeding experience with her second baby Sleep challenges Finding joy in motherhood and seeing the world through your children's eyes How motherhood reshaped Loz's priorities, perspective and sense of fulfilment If you haven't already, please check out Ready or Not podcast. You can listen on Apple or Spotify. You'll hear Loz with her co-host Lu talk all about how to make work work in motherhood. And you can find out more on instagram @readyornot.pod. If you would like to buy a Postpartum Season cap, click this link below: https://www.thepostpartumseason.com/store/p/the-postpartum-season-cap Thank you for supporting the podcast! As mentioned in the episode, here are some postpartum support resources. Please reach out if you need help. Australia PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) Helpline: 1300 726 306 Website: https://www.panda.org.au Lifeline Australia 13 11 14 (24/7) Website: https://www.lifeline.org.au Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 Website: https://www.beyondblue.org.au New Zealand PlunketLine 0800 933 922 (24/7) Healthline New Zealand 0800 611 116 (24/7) 1737 Need to talk? Call or text 1737 (24/7) Thank you for listening. Take care x
July 27 · 34 min
EP 19 | Amber - Birth under general anaesthetic, birth trauma, healing & embracing matrescence
In this episode, we discuss: Looking forward to motherhood and preparing for postpartum An unexpected emergency caesarean birth under general anaesthetic Meeting Joey for the first time after waking from surgery Feeling pressure to experience an instant connection with your baby Postpartum anxiety during the early weeks How social media influenced expectations of motherhood Processing birth trauma and recognising that trauma doesn't have to look the same for everyone The value of a birth debrief in making sense of a difficult experience Holding gratitude for a healthy baby while grieving the birth experience you hoped for Why parents who give birth under general anaesthetic deserve more consideration and support Considering future births after a traumatic birth experience Matrescence and the identity changes that come with becoming a mother How becoming a parent can reshape your priorities and future And here is the link if you would like to buy a Postpartum Season cap: https://www.thepostpartumseason.com/store/p/the-postpartum-season-cap Thank you for supporting the podcast! As mentioned in the episode, here are some postpartum support resources. Please reach out if you need help. Australia PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) Helpline: 1300 726 306 Website: https://www.panda.org.au Lifeline Australia 13 11 14 (24/7) Website: https://www.lifeline.org.au Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 Website: https://www.beyondblue.org.au New Zealand PlunketLine 0800 933 922 (24/7) Healthline New Zealand 0800 611 116 (24/7) 1737 Need to talk? Call or text 1737 (24/7) Thank you for listening. Take care x
July 20 · 49 min
EP 18 | Deborah - Returning to work, matrescence, mum guilt & finding a career that fits motherhood
In this episode, we discuss: Preparing for birth compared with preparing for postpartum Experiencing postpartum anxiety Seeking professional support and asking for help The transition from one child to two Returning to paid work after maternity leave Mum guilt, self-doubt and balancing work with family life Realising that flexible workplaces can make all the difference Why mothers don't need to change to fit workplaces—workplaces need to better support mothers How matrescence influences our careers, priorities and identity Creating the Matrescence at Work podcast to help mothers feel less alone Redefining success after becoming a parent You can find Deborah and the Matrescence at Work podcast on Instagram at @matrescenceatworkpodcast. And here is the link if you would like to buy a Postpartum Season cap: https://www.thepostpartumseason.com/store/p/the-postpartum-season-cap Thank you for supporting the podcast! As mentioned in the episode, here are some postpartum support resources. Please reach out if you need help. Australia PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) Helpline: 1300 726 306 Website: https://www.panda.org.au Lifeline Australia 13 11 14 (24/7) Website: https://www.lifeline.org.au Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 Website: https://www.beyondblue.org.au New Zealand PlunketLine 0800 933 922 (24/7) Healthline New Zealand 0800 611 116 (24/7) 1737 Need to talk? Call or text 1737 (24/7) Thank you for listening. Take care x
July 13 · 37 min
EP 17 | Saskia - Baby blues, identity change, infant temperament, trusting your intuition & the power of honest conversations
In this episode, we discuss: Feeling unprepared for postpartum despite preparing for birth Meeting her son for the first time Struggling to feel an immediate connection after birth Experiencing the baby blues following a postpartum haemorrhage The impact of low iron on her mental wellbeing Seeking support through healthcare professionals, psychology and her partner Grieving her pre-baby life while adjusting to motherhood Raising a spirited child with a strong temperament The importance of trusting your intuition as a parent Letting go of comparison and unrealistic expectations The value of honest conversations with other mothers The identity shift that comes with becoming a mum Being made redundant during maternity leave and finding a new sense of purpose The inspiration behind Blumacoosh, a feeding pillow designed to improve comfort while feeding and settling babies How Saskia's own postpartum experience inspired her to create a product to better support other parents The simple joys and highlights of toddlerhood If you would like to find out more about Blumacoosh, you can follow along on instagram at @blumacoosh. And here is the link if you would like to buy a Postpartum Season cap: https://www.thepostpartumseason.com/store/p/the-postpartum-season-cap Thank you for supporting the podcast! As mentioned in the episode, here are some postpartum support resources. Please reach out if you need help. Australia PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) Helpline: 1300 726 306 Website: https://www.panda.org.au Lifeline Australia 13 11 14 (24/7) Website: https://www.lifeline.org.au Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 Website: https://www.beyondblue.org.au New Zealand PlunketLine 0800 933 922 (24/7) Healthline New Zealand 0800 611 116 (24/7) 1737 Need to talk? Call or text 1737 (24/7) Thank you for listening. Take care x
July 6 · 51 min
EP 16 | Sam - Two very different births & postpartum experiences
In this episode, we discuss: Becoming a mum of two A challenging first postpartum experience Sleep deprivation and parenting a baby with a more challenging temperament Feeling validated and supported through residential parenting support Welcoming her second baby via an emergency caesarean under general anaesthetic Recovering from birth while grieving the loss of her dad The transition from one child to two How having two children with completely different temperaments changed her perspective Letting go of self-blame and giving yourself more grace Returning to work and how motherhood changed her priorities Sam is also the co-host of the Seed to Sprout Podcast, a new parenting podcast sharing conversations about all things pregnancy, babies, toddlers and kids. You can find them on Instagram @seedtosproutpod As mentioned in the episode, here are some postpartum support resources. Please reach out if you need help. Australia PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) Helpline: 1300 726 306 Website: https://www.panda.org.au Lifeline Australia 13 11 14 (24/7) Website: https://www.lifeline.org.au Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 Website: https://www.beyondblue.org.au New Zealand PlunketLine 0800 933 922 (24/7) Healthline New Zealand 0800 611 116 (24/7) 1737 Need to talk? Call or text 1737 (24/7) Thank you for listening. Take care x
June 29 · 48 min
EP 15 | Alex - Birth overseas, physical recovery, newborn shock, identity change, trusting your instincts & finding support
In this episode, we discuss: Alex's journey to motherhood while living overseas The days leading up to birth and becoming a first-time mum Recovering from a third-degree tear The shock of early postpartum and adjusting to life with a newborn The identity changes that accompany motherhood Initially resisting motherhood before embracing her new role Returning home with a newborn while living away from family Breastfeeding, oversupply and recurrent mastitis Infant sleep, routines and the pressure to do things "the right way" Learning to trust your instincts as a parent The differences between first-time and second-time motherhood Why talking openly with other mothers matters How shared experiences provide validation, support and a reminder that you're not alone Alex has created an incredible instagram page where she shares simple, delicious meals, as well as insights into her family life. If you would like to follow along, you can find her at @alexskitchenstory. As mentioned, here are some postpartum support resources. Please reach out if you need help. Australia PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) Helpline: 1300 726 306 Website: https://www.panda.org.au Lifeline Australia 13 11 14 (24/7) Website: https://www.lifeline.org.au Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 Website: https://www.beyondblue.org.au New Zealand PlunketLine 0800 933 922 (24/7) Healthline New Zealand 0800 611 116 (24/7) 1737 Need to talk? Call or text 1737 (24/7) Thank you for listening. Take care x
June 24 · 47 min
EP 14 | Chelsea - The Transition from One to Two, Mum Guilt, Prioritising You & Building a Business
In this episode, Chelsea shares: Becoming a mother during the COVID pandemic Her postpartum experiences with both of her boys Anxiety and mum guilt in early motherhood The transition from one child to two Why carving out time for yourself matters Running, boundaries, and showing up as your best self How motherhood changed her values and priorities Building Little Luxury alongside raising young children The story behind Little Luxury's signature play mat Finding purpose and creativity in this season of motherhood Instagram Giveaway Chelsea from Little Luxury has generously gifted a $200 Little Luxury voucher for one lucky winner. Head to @thepostpartumseasonpodcast on Instagram to enter. Entries close at 11:59pm NZT on 1 July. You can find out more about Little Luxury at: Instagram: @littleluxury___ Website: www.littleluxury.co.nz As mentioned at the end of the episode, here are some postpartum support resources. Please reach out if you need help. Australia PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) Helpline: 1300 726 306 Website: https://www.panda.org.au Lifeline Australia 13 11 14 (24/7) Website: https://www.lifeline.org.au Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 Website: https://www.beyondblue.org.au New Zealand PlunketLine 0800 933 922 (24/7) Healthline New Zealand 0800 611 116 (24/7) 1737 Need to talk? Call or text 1737 (24/7) Thank you for listening. Take care x
June 22 · 44 min
EP 13 | Paige - Miscarriage, Twin Pregnancy, NICU Life, Making Medical Decisions for Your Children, Identity Change & Finding Flexible Work
In this episode, Paige shares her postpartum journey with her twins. We discuss: - Miscarriage and fertility treatment - Finding out she was expecting twins - Learning at 20 weeks that her daughter had a lung lesion - Living in survival mode during a complicated pregnancy - Delivering her twins at 34 weeks - Meeting her son and daughter for the first time - Her daughter’s surgery shortly after birth - Entering the unfamiliar world of the NICU - Her son’s ongoing challenges in the NICU - The challenge of making complex medical decisions as a new parent - Finding support through family, another NICU mother and online groups - The impact of NICU life on Paige and her husband - Spending long days at the hospital while her husband worked from the cafeteria - Bringing the twins home after months in hospital - Support from family and a hospital social worker - Returning to teaching and rediscovering parts of her identity outside motherhood - Creating a more flexible career through copywriting and business coaching - The identity shifts that come with motherhood and career change - Learning to separate self-worth from productivity and income - The importance of therapy and self-reflection - Finding joy in slow, peaceful moments with her children - Paige's advice for parents navigating the NICU If you would like to connect with Paige and learn more about the work she is doing to support women, head to her Instagram page @mombossfreedom. As mentioned, here are some postpartum support resources. Please reach out if you need help. Australia - PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia)Helpline: 1300 726 306Website: https://www.panda.org.au - Lifeline Australia13 11 14 (24/7)Website: https://www.lifeline.org.au - Beyond Blue1300 22 4636Website: https://www.beyondblue.org.au New Zealand - PlunketLine0800 933 922 (24/7) - Healthline New Zealand0800 611 116 (24/7) - 1737 Need to talk?Call or text 1737 (24/7) Thank you for listening. Take care x
June 15 · 43 min
EP 12 | Jenae - Vaginal Birth, Postpartum Haemorrhage, Feeding Challenges, Triple Feeding, Birth Trauma Counselling, Anxiety, Accepting Support & Motherhood Identity
In this episode, Jenae shares: - Reaching 41 weeks before labour began - Labour starting after her waters broke overnight - Living 45 minutes from the hospital and travelling in labour - Acupuncture and other attempts to encourage labour progression - Giving birth to her son, Lucas - Experiencing an immediate postpartum haemorrhage - A delayed postpartum haemorrhage and ongoing recovery - Physical recovery and pelvic floor physiotherapy - Accessing support for birth trauma recovery - Returning to hospital with concerns about Lucas's health - Donor milk in the early days - Formula supplementation and weight gain concerns - Nipple shields and difficulties with latching - Pumping and triple feeding - Working with multiple lactation consultants - The emotional toll of feeding challenges - Establishing breastfeeding after months of challenges - Weaning from breastfeeding at 17 months - Difficulty asking for and accepting help - Support from family, friends and mothers' groups - Anxiety, tracking feeds and sleep, and the desire for control - Returning to work and reconnecting with parts of her pre-motherhood identity - Grief and identity change - Watching Lucas grow, learn and develop As mentioned, here are some postpartum support resources. Please reach out if you need help. Australia - PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) Helpline: 1300 726 306 Website: https://www.panda.org.au - Lifeline Australia 13 11 14 (24/7) Website: https://www.lifeline.org.au - Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 Website: https://www.beyondblue.org.au New Zealand - PlunketLine 0800 933 922 (24/7) - Healthline New Zealand 0800 611 116 (24/7) - 1737 Need to talk? Call or text 1737 (24/7) Thank you for listening. Take care x
June 8 · 47 min
EP 11 | Sonya - Unexpected Pregnancy, Postpartum Grief, Identity Change, Partner Support, Parenting Two Children, Grandparent Support, Building The Baby Namer
In this episode, Sonya shares: Becoming a mother after an unexpected pregnancy Returning to New Zealand after living in London Navigating pregnancy and postpartum during COVID The emotional impact of becoming the first parent among her friendship group Her experience of labour and birth with her daughter Odette Early postpartum challenges, cluster feeding and newborn life The importance of communication within relationships after having a baby How her partner supported her throughout postpartum Antenatal friendships and the value of finding community Experiencing prenatal depression and postpartum emotional challenges Becoming a mother for the second time with her son Wynn The realities of recovering while caring for a toddler and a newborn Physical recovery and a knee reconstruction after her second pregnancy Postpartum grief and identity change Letting go of expectations around "bouncing back" Social media, motherhood and learning to trust your own parenting choices Finding confidence and personal growth through motherhood Building The BB Namer alongside raising a young family Making new friendships as an adult and as a parent To learn more about Sonya and her work as The BB Namer, visit: Instagram - @thebbnamer TikTok - @thebbnamer Substack - The BB Namer Website - https://thebbnamer.com On The Postpartum Season Podcast, we regularly talk about the realities of postpartum mental health. If you're finding this season difficult, please know that support is available and you don't have to navigate it alone. Here are some helpful resources. If you're struggling, please reach out for support. New Zealand PlunketLine 0800 933 922 (24/7) Healthline New Zealand 0800 611 116 (24/7) 1737 Need to talk? Call or text 1737 (24/7) Australia PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) Helpline: 1300 726 306 Website: https://www.panda.org.au Lifeline Australia 13 11 14 (24/7) Website: https://www.lifeline.org.au Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 Website: https://www.beyondblue.org.au Thank you for listening. Take care x
June 1 · 44 min
EP10 | Deborah - induction, positive birth experience, postpartum doula, breastfeeding challenges, sleep deprivation, postpartum anxiety and asking for help, relationship challenges, DearMe app
In this episode, Deborah shares her postpartum journey with her daughter, Cleo. We talk about: The days leading up to birth and concerns about reduced foetal movements Choosing an induction at 40 weeks Preparing mentally for birth and induction Preparing for postpartum with a postpartum doula and lactation consultant Feeling unprepared for the realities of postpartum despite practical preparation Meeting Cleo for the first time and the shock and beauty of birth A positive and empowering birth experience Recovering physically after an episiotomy Feeling capable and confident in the early postpartum weeks Breastfeeding challenges and using nipple shields Cleo struggling to gain weight initially The incredible support of Deborah’s sister during the newborn period Settling into the rhythm of the newborn phase The expectation that postpartum would become easier after the early weeks Sleep deprivation worsening over time rather than improving Navigating dietary restrictions while breastfeeding Relationship strain during the postpartum period Becoming hyper-fixated on sleep after difficult nap experiences Trying apps, schedules, and sleep consultants in search of control The emotional impact of feeling unable to “fix” baby sleep The pressure many mothers feel to manage every aspect of sleep and routine Postpartum anxiety, and asking for help The reality that postpartum can become harder before it becomes easier This episode is a deeply honest conversation about postpartum expectations, sleep deprivation, anxiety, and the emotional intensity of trying to navigate motherhood when things feel outside of your control. Deborah has created a journalling app for mothers to use during the postpartum season, which is launching soon. To find out more, visit: www.dearme.digital @dearmeapp.official As mentioned, here are some postpartum mental health resources. Please reach out if you need help. Australia PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) Helpline: 1300 726 306 Website: https://www.panda.org.au Lifeline Australia 13 11 14 (24/7) Website: https://www.lifeline.org.au Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 Website: https://www.beyondblue.org.au New Zealand PlunketLine 0800 933 922 (24/7) Healthline New Zealand 0800 611 116 (24/7) 1737 Need to talk? Call or text 1737 (24/7) Thank you for listening. Take care x
May 25 · 36 min
EP9 | Kim - fast positive birth experience, birth care, sleep deprivation, trying to "fix" sleep, mums and bubs pilates, community
In this episode, Kim shares her postpartum journey with her son, Oscar. We talk about: Working right up until labour began Preparing extensively for birth but not for postpartum Going into labour unexpectedly after a busy final weekend A fast and positive labour and birth experience Meeting Oscar for the first time The immediate protective instinct after birth The surreal experience of those first hours with a newborn Staying at birth care and feeling supported as new parents The quiet solidarity shared between parents during the postpartum period Bringing Oscar home for the first time The early weeks of adrenaline and support from friends and family Sleep deprivation and the impact it had emotionally and physically Trying to “fix” baby sleep and searching constantly for solutions The reality of two-hour sleep stretches and broken nights Finding ways to cope overnight, including snacks, water, TV, and routines How postpartum exhaustion can slowly build over time The comfort that comes from sharing openly with other mothers The importance of hearing honest postpartum stories Feeling connected through shared motherhood experiences This episode is an honest reflection on the beauty, exhaustion, and connection that can come with the postpartum season, and the importance of sharing real experiences with one another.
May 18 · 51 min
EP8 | Makayla - three children, three different postpartum experiences
In this episode, Makayla shares her postpartum journey across motherhood with her three boys. We talk about: Becoming a mum for the first time at 21 Going overdue and the emotional wait around Christmas Meeting her first baby Experiencing a postpartum haemorrhage shortly after birth Being separated from her baby in the first hours after birth The physical weakness and emotional impact of recovery post postpartum haemorrhage Feeling pressure to care for her baby while still needing to heal The difficulty of breastfeeding expectations in the early days Coming home from hospital and feeling overwhelmed The pressure to follow schedules and do everything “right” Anxiety, self-doubt, and feeling judged as a young first-time mum Learning to be more open about struggling The freedom that can come from speaking honestly with other mothers Her second and third postpartum experiences The idea that postpartum may not become easier, but expectations change Trusting herself more as a mother Letting go of rigid baby sleep expectations Reflecting on what she would tell her younger postpartum self This is a warm and honest conversation about the realities of postpartum — the unexpected challenges, the pressure we can place on ourselves, and the gradual confidence that can come with time, experience, and support.
May 11 · 40 min
EP 7 | Laura - planned LSCS, LSCS recovery, support in the early days, feeding, mastitis, sleep challenges, baby blues, anxiety, relationship changes, enjoying the small moments
In this episode, Laura shares her postpartum journey with her daughter, Winnie. We talk about: Preparing for postpartum with practical support like meal prep and organising baby essentials A planned caesarean birth due to transverse positioning Meeting Winnie for the first time Early recovery from a caesarean section and the challenges of limited mobility Staying at birth care and the value of 24/7 support for new parents Learning to breastfeed and navigating latch challenges in the early days Exclusive breastfeeding when Winnie refused a bottle Recurrent mastitis and managing symptoms and treatment Coming home and adjusting without constant support Feeding schedules and concerns about newborn weight loss The realities of postpartum recovery while caring for a newborn Sleep in the early weeks and the transition to longer stretches Sleep regressions, co-sleeping, and eventual sleep training The impact of sleep deprivation on mental health and daily functioning Tracking feeds and sleep and the mental load of managing routines Baby blues and the hormonal shift after birth Experiencing anxiety for the first time postpartum “Sunset scaries” and anxiety around nighttime and sleep The importance of partner support and communication Changes in relationship dynamics and finding new ways to connect The shift in identity and redefining what “free time” and “fun” look like Being the first in a friendship group to have a baby Finding connection through antenatal classes and other mums The evolving nature of friendships in motherhood The joy of milestones — first smiles, giggles, crawling, and personality The contrast between the challenges and the beautiful moments of motherhood This episode offers an honest look at the physical, emotional, and relational changes that come with motherhood, and the importance of support, flexibility, and self-compassion in the postpartum season.
May 4 · 28 min
EP6 | Julia - induction, PPH, perineal tear, NICU stay, feeding journey, support from partner and family, baby blues, mental health support, return to paid work, Space, coffee groups, travel
In this episode, Julia shares her postpartum journey with her daughter, Cameron. We talk about: Pregnancy with hypertension and preparing for an induction A vaginal birth with a third-degree tear and postpartum haemorrhage Going to theatre after birth Cameron’s low glucose readings and time in special care and NICU The emotional experience of being discharged while Cameron remained in hospital Tube feeding, pumping, feeding support, and learning to breast feed Coming home together and introducing Cameron to Julia’s dog, Summer Family support from Julia’s mum, sister, brother-in-law, and wider family Starting solids The importance of walking for mental health and recovery Returning to paid work after maternity leave and the challenges of feeding, commuting, and childcare Making the decision to resign from paid work and stay home a little longer with Cameron Finding a new rhythm through coffee group, Space, swimming lessons, and walks Accessing maternal mental health support and having check-ins after birth Parenting as a single mother, with support from her partner, family, and community Identity changes in motherhood Travelling to Hawaii with Cameron The joy of watching Cameron grow, explore, and become a little companion This is a warm and honest conversation about the many layers of postpartum — feeding, support, identity, and finding your way through the first year of motherhood.
April 27 · 35 min
EP5 | Laura - early days, meal train, support systems, colic, sleep deprivation, return to paid work, identity shift, mum guilt
In this episode, Laura shares her postpartum journey with her son. We talk about: A fast labour and the experience of birthing shortly after arriving at hospital Her sense of strength and awe following birth Time in birth care and the support it provided in the early days Adjusting to life at home Creating a meal train and receiving community support in the postpartum period Living with her mother-in-law postpartum and navigating cultural and language differences Caring for a baby with colic and the impact of sleep deprivation Learning to let go of small things and prioritise what truly matters The value of extended family support and having extra hands in the home Returning to paid work and balancing childcare, feeding, and professional identity The emotional complexity of hearing her baby cry while working from home Finding fulfilment in work alongside the challenges of separation Feelings of guilt around time away and self-care Identity changes in motherhood, particularly as an older mum Grief around not being able to stay home longer The impact of social connection and building community during maternity leave Reflections on the beauty and challenges of postpartum The importance of reaching out for support and not doing it alone This is a thoughtful and honest conversation about the balance of motherhood — the beauty, the challenge, and the ongoing process of finding your way through it. Thank you for listening. Take care x

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