Motherhood is often sold as “natural” and intuitive - but for so many women, it feels overwhelming, confusing and nothing like they expected. In this episode of A Millennial Mind, I sit down with parenting expert Zoe Blaskey to explore the real, science-backed identity shift of motherhood, from hormonal changes and brain remodelling to the emotional load no one prepares us for.

We talk about why becoming a mum can feel like a second adolescence, how societal pressure fuels burnout, and why guilt shows up even when we’re doing our best. Zoe shares practical tools for setting boundaries, finding yourself again, strengthening your partnership, and making motherhood feel lighter, calmer and more intentional.

If you’re a mum, planning to be one, or simply curious about the truth behind the transition into motherhood, this conversation will help you feel seen, supported and less alone.

Who This Episode Is For ✨
Mums feeling tired, overwhelmed or burnt out
Women struggling with the identity shift of motherhood (matrescence)
Anyone carrying “good mother” guilt or pressure
Parents wanting healthier boundaries and calmer homes
People curious about the science behind motherhood

What You’ll Learn ✨
Why motherhood feels harder than we’re told
The science of matrescence (your “second adolescence”)
How to set boundaries without guilt
How to lighten the mental load
How to strengthen your partnership after kids
Practical ways to enjoy motherhood more of the time

00:00 Introduction to Motherhood Myths
00:08 Guest Introduction and Initial Reactions
00:17 Understanding Mares Essence
00:53 The Neuroscience of Motherhood
01:39 Podcast and Book Journey
03:44 Personal Development and Coaching
04:58 Navigating Motherhood Challenges
06:36 Self-Compassion and Resilience
29:26 Debunking the 'Having It All' Myth
41:26 The Guilt of Self-Care for Moms
42:38 The 'One for Me, One for You' Tool
43:55 Challenging the Selfless Mother Narrative
45:32 The Concept of Minimum Viable Needs
46:17 The Mental Load and Super Mom Myth
47:17 Mother Kind Toolkit: Identifying Pressure Sources
51:10 Navigating Family Expectations and Boundaries
01:08:39 The Value of Caregiving and Shared Responsibilities
01:14:42 The Physiological Changes of Parenthood
01:17:47 Final Thoughts and Self-Compassion


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✨ Connect with Millennial Mind ✨

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Shivani Pau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shivani.pau
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