TRIGGER WARNING: From 1 hour 8 minutes and 40 seconds to 1 hour 9 minutes and 10 seconds I speak about my experience of birth trauma.

In this episode we speak about:

1. a bit about Mike beyond the labels of name, job and relationship status
2. the (rare) skill of truly listening
3. Mike questions me about burlesque (which is an interesting flip)
4. knowing and owning our 'flaws' in a world that displays/values 'perfect'
5. who has inspired Mike — AND learning his own balance
6. Type A personality and 'productivity' bragging
7. how big a job parenting is (and my annoyance about it being under-appreciated)
8. the significance of the words we use
9. encouraging appreciation...

Themes: burlesque, listening, parenting, event training, self-development

We mention Ross Edgley and David Goggins.

To learn more about Mike see here on Instagram or here for his website: newhealthproject.co.uk

At the end, I read a poem written by Jessica Urlichs.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

In this episode I speak about:

1. yoga mudras (hand gestures) and what they can mean
2. matrescence; both our own and our Mothers' experiences
3. parenting today; the grief and growth
4. asking "How is your Matrescence?!"
5. witnessing my feelings and experiences as a Mum
6. being a speaker on Matrescence and Perinatal Wellbeing

Themes: matrescence, parenting, motherhood, patrescence

I mention Brené Brown, Amy Taylor-Kabbaz, Joeli Brearley of 'Pregnant Then Screwed', Lucy Jones and Claire Tonti.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com

Today, Ellie specialises in helping parents navigate the overwhelm of modern parenting. She understands the pressure to “do it all” and how easily that can lead to exhaustion and burnout. Her approach is holistic and compassionate. She supports parents to reconnect with their values, let go of unrealistic expectations, and create a life that feels more balanced, meaningful and sustainable.

Ellie lives in Kent with her husband, two children, and their spaniel. She loves family walks, reading with a cuppa, dinners with friends and family and absolutely adores her skiing holidays.

TRIGGER WARNINGS: From 34 minutes to 35 minutes I speak about sexual abuse recovery. From 40 minutes 10 seconds to 41 minutes 5 seconds AND from 43 minutes and 20 seconds to 45 minutes and 40 seconds Ellie speaks about her birth experiences.

PLEASE NOTE: At 31 minutes 15 seconds I have left a pause because I shared something with Ellie that I didn't wish to put out publicly but I wanted to leave in the reflection after my share.

In this episode we speak about:

1. a bit about Ellie, her hobbies and her specialism as a psychologist
2. studying Matrescence and how we/society really should revere Mothers more
3. body literacy, listening to the wisdom we hold, and the profound value in rest
4. how we're so often in a 'threat' response and what that can do to our brain and body
5. the necessity of processing trauma with time and space
6. what our children can teach us
7. the systemic f**kery we're dealing with and what isn't our fault
8. I have a BIG realisation at 52 minutes (and burst into tears)
9. hyper-independence and how detrimental it can be

Themes: motherhood, matrescence, parenting, relationships, body literacy, cycle awareness, trauma processing, birth, domestic abuse

We mention Amy Taylor-Kabbaz, Minna Dubin, Dr Sophie Brock, 'Body Full of Stars' by Molly Cary May, Cath Counihan, 'Period Power' by Maisie Hill and Dr Rebecca Moore of 'Make Birth Better'.

To learn more about Ellie see here on Instagram. For more about what Ellie mentioned, her '28 Days of Gentle Support' click here for her website, and Ellie's Substack is 'Where the F* is the Village?'.

At the end, I read a poem written by Ellie herself.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

It feels so good to be back in this space.

Today I'm sharing a short episode with a bit of an update and asking you some questions to reflect on...

TRIGGER WARNING: From 4 minutes to 5 minutes 45 seconds I talk about grief (the death of my boyfriends Dad).

In this episode I speak about:

1. Christmas and how it can feel as a solo parent
2. training more in teaching burlesque
3. grief and the recent loss of my partners Dad
4. why I don't watch the news
5. the effect of connection & good souls in difficult times
6. my burlesque offerings in Reading; classes, courses and a show on May 3rd
7. how I enjoy Substack (find me at substack.com/lucywyldecoaching)
8. how do you feel about birthdays?

Themes: grief, burlesque, growth, birthdays

I mention Exhale Healthy Coffee, Zoe Charles and Brené Brown.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com

THANK YOU for listening! Truly. Thank you. PLEASE share the podcast and/or write a review.

Sending love to you all over the festive period and wishing you a positive and peaceful 2026!

TRIGGER WARNING: From 16 minutes and 33 seconds to 17 minutes and 25 seconds (plus the poem to close) I speak about the passing of Ruth Perry.

In this episode I speak about:

• how are YOU feeling?
• a gentle reflection on 2025 (and an invitation for you to also)
• what I'm feeling gratitude for
• what I'm feeling some grief/tenderness over
• the struggles of being a small business owner
• why our TRUTH matters — and working on ourselves

Themes: spirituality, burlesque, motherhood, entrepreneurship

I mention the late Ruth Perry and Mark Groves.

At the end, I share a poem of my own about the passing of Ruth Perry.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com

With a background in law, social justice, and Indigenous policy in Australia, Samantha brings over 20 years of experience supporting leaders and changemakers to show up with confidence and clarity. She also draws on two decades of expertise in personal development — combining mindset work, somatic practices, and leadership coaching — to help people step into their full presence. 

Samantha is passionate about amplifying diverse voices and believes that when people find the courage to share their stories, they create ripples of change that can transform communities and industries worldwide.

Samantha is also a Mother to two children, a wife and she is based in Canberra, Australia. I adore the work Samantha does and this conversation was so delightful and filled with so much passion, from each of us.

TRIGGER WARNING: At 43 minutes 30 seconds to 44 minutes Samantha mentions someone talking of suicidal ideation.

In this episode we speak about:

• a bit about Samantha and why she came to the work she does
• the profound importance of visibility on a large scale, and why
• our/society's appreciation (or lack thereof) of Mothers and nature
• allowing emotions and being a deep feeler
• motherhood, chronic illness and how the working world needs to change!
• the complexity of post abuse recovery as a Mother
• how healing burlesque can be
• Samantha's AMAZING writing about Mothers that went viral (shared HERE)
• Samantha's difficulty in pregnancy to then speaking up for herself later on
• the 'shoulds' about always being grateful in Motherhood (can all f**k off)
• and so much more brilliant stuff...!

Themes: motherhood, chronic illness, domestic abuse recovery, burlesque

We mention Amy Taylor-Kabbaz, Cath Counihan and Sophie Brock.

To learn more about Samantha see here on Instagram. And to learn more about her and her work on her website, click here: theschoolofvisibility.com

At the end, I read a quote by Margaret Cho.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

'Rest' is such an interesting topic and I'm recording this episode slightly unwell, so it seemed fitting so record a short episode on what I've mostly been doing today.

In this episode I speak about:

• how do you feel about rest?!
• time off work and other people's attitudes
• burnout
• people pleasing
• stress levels in today's world
• rest as a fitness professional

Themes: rest, boundaries, nervous system

I mention my episode with Nicky Denson-Elliot (#102) and my episode with Roly (#107).

At the end, I share a poem of my own.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com

Samantha supports executive women into and through the transition into motherhood, whether that's for the first or fifth time!) and as they return to work, ready to smash their next big career goals. She is also a podcast host, speaker and author (in waiting!).

*TRIGGER WARNING: From 52 minutes to 55 minutes Sam speaks about her struggles with postnatal anxiety.

In this episode we speak about:

• a bit about Samantha and the powerful coaching work she does working with career-led Mamas to help them learn their worth at work and at home
• how the second wave of feminism affected motherhood
• the narratives we have been fed and what is important to know as a working Mum in this day and age
• an awkward truth about school playground chats and social norms
• the intense Mum guilt Sam used to feel and how she managed and shifted that
• parenting and reparenting ourselves in the process
• my tender feelings about solo motherhood and why we NEED a village (and more preparation for parenthood)
• Sam's experience of *postnatal anxiety and the support her husband provided
• how workplaces MUST change and be more flexible to welcome all the amazing Mama minds having to leave work through no real choice of their own

Themes: motherhood, matrescence, careers and leadership, feminism, burnout, perinatal mental health

We mention Amy Taylor-Kabbaz (Episode #35 of MFM), Mel Robbins and Dr Sophie Brock (Episode #43 of MFM).

To learn more about Samantha see here on Instagram. And to find her website, click here.

At the end, I read a poem by Grace Gulley.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

She describes herself on her (gorgeous) website as a 'Routine loving, chaos-wrangling, business-owning, home-ed Mum of 3 — not working out at 4am'. — I love that!

Amanda and I connected back in 2021 and I love what she does so I'm glad to finally have a conversation for you to hear.

TRIGGER WARNING: From 31 minutes, 18 seconds to 31 minutes, 31 seconds Amanda speaks about early pregnancy loss aka miscarriage.

In this episode we speak about:

• a bit about Amanda and the work she does
• *how loaded the word 'productivity' can be — and what Amanda & I feel about it
• the nervous system and body literacy
• Amanda's experience of birth, matrescence and motherhood so far
• the 'Birth Time' film (released 2021)
• the beauty of a supportive relationship and how vital it is, as well as being SEEN in what you do and/or experience
• why Amanda and her husband chose to home educate and the benefits they've witnessed
• supporting stages of transition
• Amanda's 'Time Buckets' system (see more here)

Themes: home education, creativity, nervous system recovery, postnatal depression, pelvic girdle pain, matrescence, ADHD

We mention Episode #39 of MFM with Naomi Galliano, the 'Birth Time' film, and Episode #25 of MFM with Angela Sellar.

To learn more about Amanda see here on Instagram. And to find her website, click here.

At the end, I read a poem by Liezel Graham.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

If, like me, you've had a strained partner relationship in the past notice how well we get on and converse. (It's so lovely and I just adore what we have...)

In this episode we speak about:

• our holiday in North Devon
• how I got to learn more about myself and Roly whilst away
• the passing of Roly's dog, Pickle and what that means for us both
• Roly's support of my burlesque adventures — and why he is not threatened(!)
• leaving people's opinions out of your soul-led decisions
• Roly being a 'bonus Dad' and a bit about being a family of 3
• Doctor Who...

Themes: holidays, motherhood, nature, burlesque, bonus parenting, Doctor Who

I mention Glennon Doyle and Abby Wambach, 'Psychopath Free' by Jackson McKenzie, episode #100 with Phoxy Qurvy and episode #56 with Roly.

To learn more about Roly and his work see here in Instagram or his Facebook page.

At the end, I share a poem of my own.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com

Alongside Evie's agency and job board, she has built a community and created resources that empower parents to navigate work and family life with confidence. As a mum of two toddlers, Evie is passionate about reshaping the world of work so that parenthood is seen as a strength, not a setback.

WARNING: From 33 minutes and 20 seconds to 33 minutes and 55 seconds I speak about Father Christmas, so beware of listening around little ones.

In this episode we speak about:

• a bit about Evie and the work she does
• Evie's hobbies and her love of sport
• redundancy in early parenthood — and how common it is
• the juggles of work and parenting and the WHY behind Evie's work
• the significance of our EMOTIONAL CV* (see below)
• the invisible load we can hold as Mums and why flexible working — and more trusting of employees — can make such a difference
• Dads, paternity leave and the culture in some workplaces
• the lack of integrity we can experience when applying for work — and a shocking reply I had, saying I was too old for the role (ha, bullet dodged!)
• Evie's free templates and jobs board (see links below)

Themes: flexible working, redundancy, parenting, matrescence, recruitment

We mention *Shahroo Izadi and Alex Lloyd Hunter, co-founder of The Dad Shift.

To learn more about Evie see here on Instagram. And to find her website, click here.

At the end, I read a poem by Karen McMillan.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

Feel free to email me with your 3 — or 6 — things also, at lucy@lucywyldecoaching.com

In this episode I speak about the below and more:

• 'complaining' and why it can sometimes be helpful to be honest and own how we feel
• spiritual bypassing and gaslighting (in the face of real and systemic issues)
• the places I 'go' to find hope, love and repair when I need it

Themes: matrescence, motherhood, healing, dance, nature

I mention my former coach Rebecca Antonucci.

At the end, I share a poem of my own.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com

A certified health coach, qualified personal trainer and ex-corporate leader, Nicola combines her corporate experience with her own journey of living with mental and physical health challenges to support other women to build their own sustainable healthy habits and thrive.

Nicola is a Mum — she says "Mam" — of one daughter and lives in Gateshead, UK.

TRIGGER WARNING: At 20 minutes 35 seconds to 21 minutes we speak about early pregnancy loss (miscarriage) and birth trauma.

At 33 minutes 10 seconds to 35 minutes I speak about my traumatic birth experience having Matilda.

And at 1 hour 2 minutes 20 seconds to 1 hour 8 minutes Nicola talks about her birth experience involving Kielland's forceps.

In this episode we speak about:

• a bit about Nicola and what she does helping women
• the hobbies she is now pursuing and making time for
• her background and the WHY behind what Nicola does as a Mum and coach
• the raw realities of birth and motherhood that are rarely spoken about and why that can be damaging
• the emotions we can feel, but society is lame at realising and accepting
• Nicola's journey with nutrition and weight control and the influence (both we and society) has on our girls
• food, gut health and the minefield that the food industry is, particularly as a parent (as if we needed another challenge!)
• self-worth, boundaries aka loving limits
• Nicola's experience of birth trauma, birth injury and her recovery
• how we so desperately need more information around pregnancy, birth and beyond to better protect our physical and mental health

Themes: birth trauma, (peri)menopause, matrescence, mothering, nutrition, burlesque,

We mention Andrea Gibson, Jane Hardwicke Collings, Mel Robbins, Joe Wicks, Rebecca Antonucci, Rayne Bryant, Zoe Charles

To learn more about Nicola see here on Instagram. And here for her website; Life Now UK. And her podcast is 'Women's Health Unwrapped' so do look it up.

At the end, I read a poem written by Nikita Gill.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

So I wanted to share my feelings and perspectives on growing older. — I'd love to know how you feel too. Why not email me at lucy@lucywyldecoaching.com?

In this episode I speak about:

• how do you feel about growing older?
• society's labels
• looking after ourselves; with massage, nutrition, easing stress and more
• midlife awakening not crisis
• synaptic pruning (so good to learn about this!)
• finding what LIGHTS you up
• Sagescence — becoming a sage/a wise woman (see more in the link below)

Themes: ageing, sagescence, motherhood, boundaries, wellbeing, burlesque

I mention Jane Hardwicke-Collings and Sagescence, Regena Thomashauer and her book 'Pussy; A Reclamation', Episode #18 of my podcast about healing my gut/skin, Talia B's incredible massage therapy, Episode #98 with Minna Dubin about Mum Rage, and Episode #25 with Angela Sellar about Style and Make Up.

At the end, I share a poem by Danielle Doby.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com

Everything Nicky does is about lifting the voices of female founders, and she is here to empower her community of women to break down conventional norms and become free to explore the lives and careers they want — that bit WILDER.

Through her podcast, public speaking and writing Nicky loves to explore the topic of learnt sexism — our inherent and programmed self-hatred and limiting beliefs. Learnt sexism doesn’t sound like hate — it sounds like: ‘I’m not ready.’ ‘She’s too much.’ or ‘I could never.’ Those are the beliefs she is ready to dismantle so that women can support each other, AND own their power.

(I connected with Nicky on Instagram and invited her on because, as you can probably tell, she totally speaks my language!)

TRIGGER WARNING: From 45 minutes 20 seconds to 48 minutes and 20 seconds, Nicky speaks about having a difficult pregnancy, birth and their recovery.

In this episode we speak about:

• a bit about Nicky and what she does
• how multifaceted we are as women/people
• the mother load that can often seem invisible to some
• the Barbie movie and our favourite moments in the film (not the monologue)
• hobbies that nourish us, whatever age we are
• advocating for our kids
• Nicky's beautiful WHY behind 'The Wilder Ones'
• learnt sexism against other women and the harm it can cause
• changing her name back to use her birth name and the feelings and discussions around this
• Nicky's experience of pregnancy, birth and early motherhood (see trigger warning at the top)

Themes: anger, burlesque, feminism, creativity, matrescence, the sister wound, birth trauma

We mention Ana Forrest, Minna Dubin, Gabor Maté, Greta Gerwig and Zoe Charles.

To learn more about Nicky see here on Instagram. And here for her website; The Wilder Collective. And her podcast is 'Women's Business' so do look it up.

At the end, I read a poem written by Donna Ashworth.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

It is incredibly common for women and Mothers to forget or let go of the big things (and the little things) that make us who we are; to please others, to cope with parenting more easily, or we can simply 'chameleonise' for survival reasons...

Right?! — Because of course NOT fitting in used to be a case of life or death so on some level we 'remember' that and therefore we make do with our soul being starved in big or small ways.

I invite you to think about who YOU are, away from the different hats you wear for/with other people. It's more important than you might think.

In this episode I speak about:

• listening to your body's instincts
• boundaries
• remembering and rekindling our love for things
• how knowing our preferences in all the ways can help us really own who we are more and therefore perhaps avoid people who try to cuss (or control) our opinions

Themes: mental health, self-worth, personal growth, healing, preventing abuse

At the end, I share a quote from Dr Seuss.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com

Phoxy Qurvy is a quirky, curvy burlesque performer and hostess (with the most breasts)! With 30 years plus performance experience, this award-winning, plus-sized, bisexual yummy mummy is eclectic, chameleonic and full of wit, wisdom and passion. Phoxy is producer of the Qurve Ball and founder and principal of Phoxy Qurvy's School of Burly (est.2018).

Phoxy is also Mum to 3 children and lives in Cambridgeshire, UK.

(We have a really good chat about birth trauma the reality of motherhood for some. I hope you feel seen, heard and understood in what is shared in this conversation.)

TRIGGER WARNINGS:

1. from 13 minutes 58 seconds to 14 minutes 40 seconds we talk about birth trauma
2. from 16 minutes 10 seconds to 17 minutes 56 seconds we talk about birth again
3. from 19 minutes 48 seconds to 22 minutes Phoxy speaks about her postnatal experience at the hospital and her son being in intensive care which may be upsetting

In this episode we speak about:

• a bit about Phoxy and her life as a Mum, solo Mum, actress and as Phoxy Qurvy
• how we're rushed/rushing from the moment we give birth and WHY we need to know we MATTER
• what Burlesque can do for women and Mums
• why feeling and looking FABULOUS can make a difference!
• moving on from 'martyr Mum' and spending time on OURSELVES
• the power of poetry and writing
• misconceptions about burlesque(!)
• body image and body confidence
• Phoxy's latest act (and the why we can have behind a performance piece)
• reprogramming the effects of abuse
• navigating what others in our life may think about burlesque

Themes: solo motherhood, burlesque, birth trauma, postnatal care, matrescence, poetry,

We mention Zoe Charles, Regena Thomashauer, Minna Dubin (podcast #98), Dr Rebecca Moore and Eve Rodsky.

To learn more about Phoxy see here on Instagram. And here for her School of Burly.

At the end, I read a poem written by Nikita Gill.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

I recorded this episode before I did burlesque, and since then I've healed my relationship with my body SO much more. To find our more about my burlesque classes, just send me a message :)

Please note: This can be an emotional topic. There is no pressure or judgement whatsoever to be or feel any different from where you are now.

In this episode I speak about:

• the wisdom our body holds and conveys
• 'listening' hands and loving touch
• the significance of our feet
• breath work and yoga as powerful tools to tune inwards
• when our organs show warning signs
• we're "not a sum of broken parts"*
• decent posture and moving wisely

Themes: mental health, physical health, yoga, breath

*I mention Glennon Doyle.

At the end, I share a poem written by Selina Denton.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

Minna is on Instagram at @minnadubin. You contact her and find links to her published writing on her website minnadubin.com. 

Minna Dubin has such an important voice in the Motherhood space and I am pretty honoured to talk with her. Learning of Minna's work validated my feelings so much, which really means the world in all my postnatal/motherhood struggles.

In this episode we speak about:

• a bit about Minna, the work she does and who she is as well as a Mum and Author and Essayist
• taking time for herself
• relationship/parenting dynamics
• being stripped of our power while being told that we have it
• poetry, burlesque and the arts
• "making people uncomfortable is great!" and speaking up
• the 'needless' caveat of "of course I love my child..." that we so often use
• the isolation of matrescence compared to adolescence
• what our rage can tell us!
• a bit about Minna's experience of motherhood
• how much we Mums really matter and deserve to feel good and more
• synaptic pruning; what it is and why it helps to know (to defend against dumb and denigrating comments)

Themes: motherhood, rage, identity, birth, matrescence

We mention Toni Morrison, Amy Taylor-Kabbaz, Dr Sophie Brock, Dr Aurélie Athan, Dr Alexandra Sacks

At the end, I read a poem written by Nikita Gill.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

Have a listen to learn where your ego could consciously or unconsciously be running the show.

I talk about:

• training, overdoing it and injuries
• yoga and non-attachment (in achieving a pose)
• dick heads on the road that we don't need to compare to
• keeping up with the Jones' BS
• self-worth and recognising our wounds
• how being aware of my body and nervous system effects my decisions

Themes: self-worth, exercise, upbringing/family, parenting, nervous system

I mention Brené Brown.

At the end I read a poem by Tanya Markul.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

Ellen and I met at a women's circle at the beginning of 2025, led by Zoe Charles (who runs 'The Cheek Of It!' school of Burlesque and Cabaret) and it's great to talk about this topic that is common to SO many women I know.

TRIGGER WARNING: From 45 minutes 40 seconds to 47 minutes Ellen speaks about early pregnancy loss/miscarriage.

From 47 minutes to 48 minutes Ellen speaks about having a beautiful birth experience which turned difficult so please go gently if this may be triggering.

In this episode we speak about:

• a bit about Ellen's *journey being diagnosed and how it led to the work she does (*Ellen thought she was 'just' anxious before learning more and getting diagnosed)
• figuring out our emotions and how to process them in a healthy way
• not comparing ourselves to everyone's different experiences
• Ellen's two deeply POWERFUL whys
• expressing our rage and why it matters
• the process of getting an autism diagnosis, finally quietening the curiosity about it AND the reactions of people around her when declaring her diagnosis
• how motherhood can be such a melting pot and brings things up to explore/process
• having our needs met and not gaslighting ourselves into gratitude

Themes: autism, ableism, processing emotions, healing, parenting, motherhood, matrescence, early pregnancy loss/miscarriage

We mention Zoe Charles, Glennon Doyle, Minna Dubin, Audre Lorde, Jane Hardwicke Collings, Cath Counihan, Amy Taylor-Kabbaz and Cleo Wade.

To learn more about Ellen see here on her website. And to connect with Ellen on Instagram click here.

At the end, I read a poem written by Jessica Jocelyn.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

If you're new to my world you may not know that since 2019 I've had quite a difficult and traumatic journey with my skin health.

Now it is finally and mostly better, I wanted to share my experience healing my gut — which lead to sorting my skin — in case it's helpful for anyone else to hear/learn from. I have learned SO much; partly via my own vast research and commitment but largely with the help of an incredibly helpful, lovely and skilled professional, whom I mention below.

In this episode I speak about:

• getting help from an Acne Specialist Naturopathic Nutritionist
• receiving unsolicited advice
• how I needed to adjust my diet
• what my body was saying in it's suffering
• allergies to ingredients in skin products
• getting help from the wrong person
• how we're potentially conditioned to feel like we 'should' look flawless
• the deep upset that my skin problems caused me

Themes: nutrition, gut health, naturopathy, mental health

I mention Ebony Jane Nutrition. I also mention Shea Butter Cottage.

At the end, I share a poem written by me.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

Specialising in childhood trauma, parenting after developmental & childhood trauma and generational healing so we can shift cycles of dysfunction for ourselves and our families, Cath is passionate about ALL of us learning to meet our needs, repattern our nervous systems, heal our shame and stop self-abandoning.

She hosts a popular weekly podcast 'Grow Yourself Up' and she lives in London with her husband and twin daughters. 

Cath is someone whom I've followed the work of for years and I deeply appreciate what she does. — You can HEAR the smile on my face as I begin the podcast.

TRIGGER WARNINGS: from 35 minutes 30 seconds to 36 minutes 30 seconds Cath speaks about her Father's alcoholism.

*And from 55 minutes to 59 minutes Cath speaks about her birth experience; premature labour, an anxious pregnancy and a cascade of interventions, episiotomy and more.

In this episode we speak about:

• a bit about Cath and what led her to the work she does today
• why story behind and reason why Cath's podcast is called 'Grow Yourself Up'
• breaking down shame and embarrassment
• my experience of being ostracised and subsequently reparenting myself
• the depths that parenthood can take us to
• the power of bibliotherapy (LOVE discovering this word!)
• our dream to take part in a flash mob!
• Polyvagal theory and the autonomic nervous system
• what contributes to (the incredibly valid) rage in motherhood
• bedtime rage, meeting our own needs and f**k self-abandonment
• relationships and what we can each be holding from our past
• *Cath's experience of birthing her twins
• more care and reverence is needed over birth — and towards OURSELVES
• how DEEPLY affected by motherhood both Cath and I feel, and you may be too

Themes: trauma healing, psychotherapy, alcoholism, narcissistic abuse, matrescence, motherhood, birth, autism and ADHD.

We mention Molly Caro May and her book 'Body Full Of Stars', Stephen Porges, Deb Dana, Minna Dubin (on the podcast soon!), Eve Rodsky, Dr Sophie Brock, Tamu Thomas, Matt Fray (whom I mention 53 minutes in).

To learn more about Cath see here on her website: cathcounihan.com. And to connect with Cath on Instagram click here. Do check out her brilliant podcast called 'Grow Yourself Up'.

At the end, I read a poem written by Jess Urlichs.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

Some of you have followed me for a long time and I've changed a LOT, professionally and personally so here is a bit of the why — how I have grown and evolved and the juicy WHY behind my work.

In this episode I speak about:

• who I am and what has made me who I am today
• advocating for yourself and the ripple effect that can have
• why I talk about birth trauma and abuse

Themes: healing, domestic abuse, motherhood, birth trauma, parenting

I mention Jenni Donato, Rebecca Antonucci, Rayne Bryant

At the end of this episode, I share a quote from Rumi.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

I am so glad to share this conversation, after connecting with Wendy in a Facebook group connected to the work of Kate Northrup. To hear about parenting approaches in a different country (the USA) was really interesting.

Do listen and share if you can!

*TRIGGER WARNINGS 1: from 17 minutes 25 seconds to 21 minutes 43 seconds we talk about suicide in adults and children. And from 35 minutes to 45 minutes we speak about birth trauma and baby loss.

CONTENT WARNING: From 32 minutes 15 seconds to 33 minutes 20 seconds AND in my poem at the end I talk about Father Christmas so beware if you're listening around little ones!

In this episode we speak about:

• a bit about the work Wendy does to help reduce suffering in families and more
• parenting for the queer community,
• why systemic change is desperately needed for all of the family to benefit
• the types of parenting; 'autocratic'/authoritarian, permissive and democratic
• the power and magnetism in humility
• suicide awareness*
• applying both education and instinct in parenting (and more!)
• birth trauma and baby loss*
• adjusting and growing through matrescence
• how true self-love came from parenting
• I get Wendy's fabulous response to a vulnerable question about parenting

Themes: parenting, solo parenting, child advocacy, motherhood, matrescence, birth trauma, baby loss, healing

We mention Kate Northrup and Ruth Perry.

To learn more about Wendy see here on her website FreshStartFamilyOnline.com. And to connect with Wendy on Instagram click here. Do check out her podcast called 'The Fresh Start Family Show'.

At the end, I read a poem written by me.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

People can often dumb themselves down and say "I wouldn't call it poetry". But as I organise a poetry soiré local to me and attend open mic sessions with artists of all kind, I invite you to think about if you wish to share anything of yours...

In this episode I speak about:

• who are your favourite poets? what stories have stayed with you?
• do you write?
• Gloria Steinem's marvellous words....
• why I love poetry and the impact it can have
• writing to heal, feel and process
• Matilda's words (that I call a poem)
• Hollie McNish's work and how honest and BRILLIANT it is
• a tribute to *Andrea Gibson, who passed away recently
• teaching at an old venue where Wilfred Owen used to teach
• listening to the lyrics of songs
• attending open mic sessions

*I refer to Andrea as 'she' when she went by 'they'. My apologies.

Themes: poetry, healing, storytelling, music

I mention Gloria Steinem, Jonzi D, Pam Ayres, W. H. Auden, Hollie McNish, Liezel Graham, Eve Ensler, Andrea Gibson, Wilfred Owen, Eric Clapton.

At the end, I share a poem written by me.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

In this episode we speak about:

• a bit about what Hayley does and her programme; 'Womanhood'
• reclaiming your inner authority after motherhood and the feminine archetypes
• nurturing healthy masculinity in the next generation
• the power of relationships to show us our truth (and where we're hiding it!)
• f**k the idea of being 'Super Mum' and how toxic it is
• the changing energies and seasons of our life as women
• welcoming play, pleasure and our body's responses
• getting to know all the facets of our fabulous selves
• the positive impact that feminine embodiment work can have on our intimate relationships

Themes: motherhood, matrescence, femininity, divorce, sex, healing

To learn more about Hayley see here on her website. And do connect with Hayley on Instagram.

We mention Regena Thomashauer and Audre Lorde.

At the end, I read a poem by Tanya Markul.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

Zoe Charles, the founder of 'The Cheek Of It!' was my first guest for the podcast, and it's been amazing to dive into her world a bit more over the last couple of years that I've known her.

There are so many misconceptions about burlesque (which I may tackle in another episode) so I wanted to rerelease this episode to hopefully inspire you to do something truly for YOU!

It really is SO important to find something that we LOVE, as a Mum — something that lights us up — as well as being a Mama, partner, friend, etc.

In this episode I speak about:

• body confidence
• learning to be adored
• the sisterhood and community!
• using creativity to convey a message
• seeing REAL bodies moving in the flesh (compared to the fake and airbrushed)
• the art form of Burlesque; it's elegance and celebration
• an incident with(out) a nipple tassel
• performing in Soho in the midst of Pride month

Big thanks to my teachers Petis Pois and Ava Ventura! And Zoe at 'The Cheek Of It!'.

Themes: burlesque, female empowerment, postnatal mental health, healing from abuse,

At the end, I share a poem written by me.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

Becca has been a Homeopath since 2009, a Reflexologist since 2001 and has added Accredited Divorce and Breakup Coaching in 2023. She specialises in Women's Health with a particular focus on gynaecological, auto-immune and hormone issues.

Becca is also mum and step mum to four wonderful teenage boys and a little girl.

TRIGGER WARNING: at 40 minutes 20 seconds to 42 minutes 20 seconds Becca talks about diabetic ketoacidosis.

In this episode we speak about:

• unpacking what may be going on to potentially save a relationship from divorce
• planning how to SAFELY leave a toxic partner
• the trauma that the divorce process can cause (and how it's not witnessed enough!)
• homeopathy/supplements to support you in times of stress
• preparing for court and the terrifying experience that it can be
• Katherine May's book 'Wintering' and how it depicts what I call survival mode
• the risk of health issues that can come from long-term stress/divorcing a toxic partner
• co-parenting, parallel parenting and counter parenting
• what 'reactive defence' is (— SO great to know about!)
• nervous system healing/regulation
• our exciting collaboration for Healing Space Online
• the power and beauty in learning burlesque and how it can help us reclaim our body
• how to look out for diabetic ketoacidosis

Themes: divorce, post separation abuse, perimenopause/hormonal health, the nervous system, stress, boundaries, parenting, PTSD, healing, diabetic ketoacidosis.

You can find the blogs that Becca speaks about HERE.

To learn more about Becca's Divorce Coaching see here on Becca's website. And connect with Becca here on Instagram.

We mention Steve Biddulph, Gabor Maté's work, Bessel van der Kolk's work.

At the end, I read a section from 'Wintering' by Katherine May.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

This is one of my favourite topics — and most commonly talked about with my 1:1 coaching clients.

In this episode I speak about:

• spreading out in Savasana, taking up the space on your yoga mat — and beyond
• growing more comfortable in who you are
• from self-silencing to being calmly assertive
• knowing that anger is valid and natural, whatever your gender
• the beauty and wisdom in growing older
• over-apologising and you are not 'too much'

Themes: yoga, motherhood, mental health, parenting, matrescence

I mention Amy Taylor-Kabbaz.

At the end, I share a poem written by Nikita Gill.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and/or on my website: www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

Lauren’s record of representing sensitive and complex needs of children and families to a public audience includes extensive media experience, including press, television and radio.

TRIGGER WARNING: At 4 minutes to 5 minutes Lauren speaks about the murder of baby Peter Connelly.

In this episode we speak about:

• Lauren's role and the work they do at FBS
• a bit about the founder, Stelio Stefanou and the why behind FBS
• breaking cycles of abuse by working with mums and dads
• how so much of real life can be covered up, to the detriment of so many
• some of the statistics: 1/5 children are impacted by domestic abuse and 30% of abuse cases begin in pregnancy, 1/5 couples break up by the baby's 1st birthday
• the parental relationship abuse spectrum (link to PDF below)
• Lauren's previous career experience and what's led her to this role
• the myth of the 'perfect Mum' and how damaging it is
• parenting and raising a mixed race family
• paradox, conflict and polarity on small and big scales

Themes: therapy, healing, abuse, childhood trauma, systemic inequality, mothering, parenting

At the end, I share a poem by Nikita Gill.

You can find out more about For Baby's Sake here on their website.

We mention Make Birth Better, Dr Chatterjee, Dr Gabor Maté, the UN and the parental relationship abuse spectrum.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

Please note: I am not attempting to be a parenting coach. I am simply exposing what I feel passionate about and I know a lot of others will and do relate to.

In this episode I share my perspectives and approach to the (ridiculous) pressures we can feel as parents in this day and age, in the hope that it may bring you some relief (and a giggle or two).

In this episode I speak about:

• the pressure on Mums today
• the toxic expectations put upon parents and children
• why children's emotions matter too
• finding my truth and becoming the woman and MOTHER I want to be
• my approach to the things and people that may judge and push their opinions onto us
• why I said no to sleep training Matilda as a baby
• you're not wrong — and you're not failing as a Mum!
• maternal 'rage' and how I felt before I got therapy

Themes: parenting, motherhood, mental health, healing, matrescence

At the end, I share a poem written by Karen McMillan.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

I discovered Katie's work from doing Burlesque BUT it turned out that Katie and her husband (photographer for What Katie Did) had been doing my yoga class for years before I realised their other roles.

In this episode we speak about:

• a bit about Katie and her background that led her to 'What Katie Did'
• how clothes/the way you dress can make you FEEL
• the art of corsetry and choosing for your body type
• how Katie made her own clothes during pregnancy and the shock of her body changing
• adjusting to the changes that come with being a Mum; Matrescence
• 1950's style, bullet bras, Marilyn Monroe and more
• shapewear; girdles, corselette, waist cinchers, power mesh
• boobs and breast-feeding in my wedding dress
• wigs, wig-fitting — and how great they can look!!
• why corsets are not for partners but for ourselves

Themes: fashion, vintage lingerie, burlesque, matrescence, postnatal wellbeing, hyper-feminine style,

At the end, I share a poem by Nikita Gill.

You can find out more about Katie via her website www.whatkatiedid.com and/or find her here on Instagram.

We mention Bettie Page, Rosie the Riveter, Roland Mouret, Good Wood Revival, and Zoe Charles' TED Talk on Femininity.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

PLEASE NOTE: At 23 minutes 30 seconds to 27 minutes and 20 seconds I speak about 'pussy' and more, so beware who you're listening around.

In this episode, I speak on:

• the power of being in circle/a safe space with other women to heal the witch wound
• the clothing and 'kit' involved in burlesque that you can use
• how FEELING good and in greater connection with your body can positively impact so many areas of life
• knowing more about where burlesque comes from and what 'persona' you may wish to play
• female body parts and the names for the parts of our genitalia (believe it or not, MANY women — and men — don't know)
• paying tribute to who and what we have learned from — and trusting the process to arrive where I have now
• a bit about the classic burlesque moves, poses and working with or without a mirror
• listening to your body, it's wants and desires... will YOU join us?

Themes: burlesque, women's circles, healing, the witch wound, sensuality, dance

At the end I share a poem written by Matilda, my daughter.

I mention Zoe Charles and her TED Talk on Femininity, Diane Purkiss and Seed Talks, Anna Lou Walker and her book 'The Little Book of Vaginas', Emily Nagoski and her book 'Come As You Are', Regena Thomashauer and her book 'Pussy: A Reclamation'.

I speak about Episode #3 of my podcast 'Knowing Your Body Better and Why It Matters; Sex, Instincts and More'.

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my weekly newsletter at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

A seasoned video and film creator, Libby brings over two decades of experience to her work. In 2015, she founded her production company, Bee Here Productions, and went on to direct the acclaimed short documentary Giving Voice to Menopause (2021), which premiered at the New York Female Voices Rock Festival. Her most recent film, The Kids Play, screened at the 2024 Melbourne Documentary Festival and received both the Best Social Documentary and Audience Award at the 2024 Doc Screenings International Film Festival in Europe.

Libby is an absolute Goddess and it was such a pleasure to meet her (virtually) on this call and record our conversation for you to hear.

TRIGGER WARNING: We touch on hypnobirthing, early pregnancy loss (aka miscarriage) and birth trauma.

In this episode we speak about:

• Libby's experiences as a woman and mother so far and learning about her body
• understanding what it is to be a woman
• a bit about Libby's birth experiences
• menstrual cycle awareness
• Libby's work as a videographer and the feature documentary she is making about Matrescence with Amy Taylor-Kabbaz and Claire Tonti
• knowing and loving ourselves deeply — especially to prevent domestic abuse
• pausing to question "who am I?"
• the power of language
• sharing — and taking in — women's stories to balance things out more(!)

Themes: menstrual cycle awareness, matrescence, birth, film-making, self-care, domestic abuse,

At the end, I share a beautiful poem recently written by Libby herself.

You can find out more about Libby via her website and/or find her here on Instagram.

We mention Red School run by Alexandra Pope and Sjanie Hugo Wurlitzer, 'This Period In My Life' by Saskia Boujo, Claire Tonti, Gladys Kangau's work in Kenya on Period Poverty, Margaret Atwood, and Eli Pol of The Sane Mama.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

In this episode, I speak on:

• how we might feel about our age and growing older and why
• society's pressures and expectations
• the benefit of keeping the ego in check
• how it's possible to look after ourselves into later life
• the importance of learning about our nervous system
• 'elders' not always being older than us
• the female archetypes
• derogatory terms we can choose to see differently
• other cultures may be/feel different... ?

Themes: health, ageing, menopause, exercise, feminine archetypes

At the end, I share a poem written by Tanya Markul.

I mention Jane Harwicke Collings, Mark Twain, Socrates, Queer Eye.

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my weekly newsletter at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

With a Master’s degree in Clinical & Counselling Psychology and over 15 years of experience in psychotherapy and education, Markella has developed a deep understanding of the complexities of human relationships and the systems that shape our lives.

Becoming a mother herself inspired Markella to focus her work on supporting mothers and couples as they navigate the profound transitions of parenthood. Driven by a passion for empowering parents, Markella offers compassionate guidance to help them reconnect with themselves, their partners, their children, and their dreams.

In this episode we speak about:

• Markella's background and training that led her to the work she does today
• psychology and education; in working with children with special educational needs
• how parents can be blamed for so much
• the factors that affect our varying capacity to consume/read
• matrescence, patrescence and how these rites of passage can affect a relationship
• the trouble when fathers feel sidelined and the conflict(s) that can arise
• relationship to the SELF first and foremost
• the unique (and brilliant!) way Markella works with couples to help everyone in the family
• the huge (and sometimes uncomfortable) spiritual growth that can come from motherhood

Themes: psychology, parenting, relationships, matrescence, patrescence, neurodivergence, trauma, healing

At the end, I share some words from Khalil Gibran, from his book 'Sand and Foam'.

You can find out more about Markella here on her website and/or find Markella on Instagram.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

In this episode, I speak on:

• being an advocate for things and people that matter to you
• navigating conflict in relationships
• being open to receiving more
• over-apologising and rushing
• why knowing ourselves makes a difference
• listening to the body
• connecting to yourself/others via music

Themes: advocacy, nervous system, yoga, interoception, music

At the end, I share a poem written by Liezel Graham.

I mention Suzy Reading, Kate Northrup, Glennon Doyle, Brené Brown and Episode #14 of my podcast 'The Magic of Music'.

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my weekly newsletter at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

Suzy is a mother of two, an author, Chartered Psychologist and Coach. She specialises in self-advocacy, helping people manage their stress, emotions, and energetic bank balance. It was her life experience of motherhood colliding with the terminal illness of her father that sparked her passion for self-care which she now teaches to her clients, young and old, to cope during periods of stress, loss and change and to boost their resilience in the face of future challenges.

In this episode we speak about:

• Suzy's work and why it makes a difference to truly look after ourselves
• experiencing matrescence and grief simultaneously
• giving ourselves permission to receive and being an ADVOCATE for ourselves
• how children (just like we do) need to feel heard
• Suzy's energetic bankruptcy and her beautiful recovery from that
• stress response(s) and the power of the breath
• grief and loss
• postnatal healing, matrescence and wishing we knew the word sooner
• not feeling at home in our body and being told we 'should' be grateful(!)
• the need to share our lived experience and not 'muzzle' ourselves

Themes: self-care, self-advocacy, parenting, grief, matrescence

At the end, I share a poem written by Rumi.

You can find out more about Suzy here.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

"Be grateful for what you have AND demand what you deserve." Abby Wambach

I'm surprised I've not talked about this topic on my own (as opposed to with guests) before now but it felt good to speak on this topic as so many parents can feel alone — whether they are in a relationship or not — and it's high time I spoke about the reality that many people like myself experience.

In this episode I wish to share my solidarity for solo parents. Of course, no two families are the same but I wanted my fellow solo parents to feel seen and heard and to share my personal experiences of the downs and the ups.

In this episode, I speak on:

• society's view on solo/single parents and having grace for ourselves
• the need for a true village to raise families
• the feeling of being on my own with certain things and decisions
• my grief over not having another baby
• making time for ourselves, on our own
• empty nest 'syndrome' and potential ways to prevent or reduce it
• navigating life with our child(ren) and the transitions we have, in all their beauty and messiness
• alloparenting
• the power in validating our own experiences

Themes: parenting, solo parenting, matrescence, perimenopause, the sociology of motherhood

At the end, I share a poem written by Hollie McNish.

I mention Rebecca Cox and our conversation from Episode #51, my conversation with Rosanna Jahangard (Episode #70), a quote from Dr Tara Swart, Lucy Jones and her book 'Matrescence', the Barbie movie and a quote from Abby Wambach's book 'Wolfpack'.

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my weekly newsletter at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

Please Note: We recorded this episode in January so Judy speaks a bit about events that have passed, but I felt it valuable to leave the information she shares around these celebrations and rituals.

TRIGGER WARNING: At 49 minutes to 51 minutes 20 seconds Judy speaks about her birth experience which some may find upsetting. I then speak about her share, and give my perspective — for others who had a traumatic birth experience.

At 1h 4m 18s to 1h 07m 15s we speak about miscarriage (also known as early pregnancy loss*).

In this episode we speak about:

• a bit about Judy and her work
• the impact of subtle changes and the 1%
• learning from nature
• Judy's experience and what led her to where she is
• how meditation unlocked something
• using the Celtic wheel
• the art of holding space (and silence)
• healing through shamanic practices, reiki and women's circles
• the weight and responsibility involved in parenting today
• matrescence

Themes: nature's cycles, parenting, dance, burnout, meditation, healing, trauma, matrescence, early pregnancy loss

At the end, I share a poem written by Becky Hemsley.

You can find out more about Judy at balancetime.co.uk or here on Instagram.

We mention Francis Weller, Mark Groves, and Jane Hardwicke-Collings*. Jane Hardwicke-Collings speaks beautifully about women and women being in their power and she speak about swapping miscarriage for early pregnancy loss because the former implies a fault with the mother.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

In this episode, I speak on:

• having healthy boundaries with intrusive characters and questions
• the blame parents can get for a child's behaviour
• how tragic it is that many Mums feel invisible after pregnancy
• the need for a village to raise a child/family
• how deeply inappropriate certain questions (and society's expectations) can be
• speaking up and advocating for yourself

Themes: motherhood, maternal mental health, boundaries, birth trauma

At the end, I share a poem written by me.

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my weekly newsletter at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

As a certified Mama Rising (Matrescence) Coach, Kelley specialises in guiding women through the antenatal and postnatal phases, offering comprehensive support for the transition into motherhood.

As a mother herself, she deeply understands the emotional complexities of this life stage and provides a nurturing environment for clients to explore their experiences.

TRIGGER WARNING: At 35 minutes to 38 minutes 20 seconds we talk about Kelley's experience with cancer in pregnancy

In this episode we speak about:

• a bit about Kelley, her family and where she lives
• growing up spending time in the great outdoors
• the sociology of motherhood and the systems we face
• the comparisons we can make to the detriment of our self-worth
• a cancer scare and treatment during pregnancy
• being a woman with a life as well as being a Mother (in pregnancy and beyond)
• how different matrescence can be with each child
• mum rage
• listening to our deep and true yearnings
• tuning into the body with menstrual cycle awareness
• realising we're not alone in our feelings on motherhood

Themes: parenting, matrescence, motherhood sociology, nature, cancer during pregnancy, menstual cycle awareness,

At the end, I share a poem written by Liezel Graham.

We mention Zoe Blaskey and her book.

You can find out more about Kelley and her work here at Kokoro Health.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

In this episode, I speak on:

• my feelings about social media right now and my plans for the future
• a bit about the grief I experienced when deciding to stop what I do
• matrescence and patrescence
• the process of 'breaking' to then build back up again
• the language of movement
• looking for work as a solo Mum and the very real juggle of it all
• fuelling and not stifling our soul fire
• supporting small businesses in the simplest of ways

Themes: women's health, maternal mental health, matrescence,

At the end, I share some words from Rainer Maria Rilke.

I mention Julia Jones of Newborn Mothers, Alex Lloyd-Hunter of The Dad Shift, Amy Taylor-Kabbaz and her Matrescence teaching, the brilliant work of Beth Berry.

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my weekly newsletter at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

Lisa's career journey began as a live-in nanny in her teens, and over the years her expertise has taken her to many wonderful roles and experiences. In 2014 Lisa founded 'Gabriels Wellbeing and Education', which offers outdoor learning, supports home-educated children, and runs one-to-one programs in schools.

Lisa is also a co-founder of 'Parenting with Passion' which you'll hear more about in the podcast. With a lifelong commitment to learning and growth, Lisa continues to expand her knowledge to better serve others.

Trigger Warnings! At 48 minutes 25 seconds to 49 minutes Lisa speaks briefly about childhood sexual abuse. And at 50 minutes 40 seconds to 53 minutes we speak about birth trauma.

In this episode we speak about:

• a bit about Lisa and her experience as a Mother and Grandmother
• Lisa's process of recovery after birth and what her body was saying
• her training in childcare and a bit about her background
• the evolution of Lisa's work and skills; most recently creating 'Parenting with Passion'
• the deep and complex work of parenting (plus the BS judgement)
• following your instincts as a Mother
• how utterly exhausting the morning before nursery or school can be (and why this stuff needs to be seen and heard!)
• at 44 minutes and 25 seconds I share an amazing quote about parenting from Dr Nicole LePera
• surviving, growing and thriving after abuse and being a cycle breaker
• birth trauma — and the ridiculous 'hierarchy' that still does the rounds in many new Mother circles and causes such upset
• the misconceptions about birth and parenthood we're led to believe
• when your kids 'fly the nest'

Themes: parenting, healing, matrescence, motherhood, neurodiversity, domestic abuse, spirituality, intergenerational healing, birth trauma

At the end, I share a poem written by Kahlil Gibran.

We mention Dr Gabor Maté, Dr Nicole LePera and my episode on birth trauma which is Episode #2.

You can find out more about Lisa and her work with Parenting with Passion here.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

(Some of my early episodes are so juicy, with such passionate and important shares I feel it is important to rerelease for new listeners or those who didn't get to listen first time around. — The powerful poem at the end by Liezel Graham is worth a listen again on it's own!)

***

Mothers returning to exercise — whether it's weeks, months, or years after childbirth — often lack the right support and education that they truly deserve.

We need to recognise that issues like incontinence and chronic back pain are not things to simply endure.

Your body requires a unique approach, along with increased reverence and respect post-pregnancy and birth.

This applies not only to biological mothers but also to those who have adopted; considering factors like sleep deprivation and the physical demands of parenting.

In this episode, I discuss:

• the importance of selecting a specialist or someone experienced in postnatal fitness and motherhood
• how your preferences matter — your feelings are valid!
• why excessive pressure isn't always beneficial
• the right balance between pushing yourself and knowing when to go gently
• the subtle yet significant aspects that contribute to growth and progress
• hints on training methods that won't exhaust you or make exercise feel like a chore
• recognising the signs of a healthy coaching relationship and understanding the prevalence of gaslighting and judgment
• how the language, manner, and energy of a coach can make a significant difference
• the importance of being challenged in a safe way, both for the body and the nervous system
• taking relaxin into account with postnatal exercises
• and it's okay to say "f**k the 'shoulds' "

Themes: women's health, postnatal fitness, maternal mental health, boundaries

At the end, I share a poem by Liezel Graham.

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my weekly newsletter at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

Rosanna is a writer and has a background in Education Leadership. In 2023 her play 'Pram Talk' was a winning selection in the Royal Shakespeare Company's national playwriting competition '37 Plays'.

Rosanna lives in Berkshire with her partner and daughters. She is such a delight to talk to and listen to. Her honesty and passion shine through. Do go and see her play, 'Pram Talk' if and when you can!

The sound quality isn't the best at times. Please bear with us.

In this episode we speak about:

• a bit about Rosanna and work as a Mother and writer
• the town of Reading as a backdrop for her play
• Rosanna's experience of Matrescence; with her first and second daughter
• how a risk assessment made her cry in the best possible way (I love this so much, at 24 minutes 10 seconds in!)
• giving ourselves grace in our Matrescence — just as we would in adolescence
• how the FEELINGS and emotions of motherhood can be sidelined alongside the medical and psychological... (39 minutes and 30 seconds in)
• the value and power in knowing ourselves, our capacity and our limits
• the economy and the capitalism in motherhood(!)
• the brilliant, rebellious feeling of breaking the 'routine' and making your own choices with parenting
• how 'Pram Talk' has effected audiences; men, women and non-mothers alike

Themes: the arts, matrescence, motherhood, postnatal anxiety,

At the end, I share a poem written by Karen McMillan from her book 'Mother Truths'.

You can find out more about Rosanna and her play here and here on the Royal Shakespeare Comany website.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

Do you dance? Have you ever hesitated to dance, even though you love it?

In this episode, I invite you to break free from inhibitions and explore the myriad benefits of dancing. Whether it's to music or in silence, discover the transformative power of movement.

Join me as I share insights into my passion for dance, its positive impact, and why prioritising dance is hugely beneficial for our well-being.

I speak about:

• dancing alone, choosing the music (and the volume of it!)
• the importance of shedding the labels of being "good" or "bad" at dancing
• openness to new dance settings, exploring beyond the familiar 
• the positive emotions that dance brings, lifting mood and aiding in emotional processing
• the healing power of dance as a holistic well-being practice
• dance as a means of self-discovery and a tool for connecting with others 
• celebrating the innate ability of children to move to music, tapping into their natural rhythm
• reflecting on the simplicity and authenticity of children's connection with dance.

Themes: dance, exercise, mental health, music, healing,

At the end, I share a poem written by me.

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my weekly newsletter at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

Hannah speaks passionately and often poetically of her experiences as a woman and Mama; which I'm sure will be shared by many.

Trigger Warning: from 15-minutes to 19-minutes in we speak about birth trauma and 35 minutes 30 seconds in to 35 minutes 50 seconds we speak about trouble breastfeeding.

In this episode we speak about:

• a bit about Hannah and being a recovering people pleaser
• lockdown as a Mum to a newborn and 3 at home
• the preciousness of witnessing our babies and what they can teach us
• Hannah's experiences and teachings from her nursing career
• birth and the slow, difficult recovery process
• the (sometimes tragic) knock-on effect of people pleasing and unsolicited advice
• troubles with breastfeeding and trauma over that
• the difference between guilt and tension
• epigenetics and generational trauma
• Hannah's wonderful 'Mum-Me' Circles, held in Abingdon

Themes: matrescence, motherhood, postnatal recovery, pelvic girdle pain, birth trauma, post-traumatic growth

At the end, I share a poem written by Hannah herself.

We mention Eliane Glasser, Zoe Blaskey, Anna Mathur, Lucy Jones, Amy Taylor-Kabbaz, Brené Brown, Gabor Maté and Emma Reed Turrell.

You can find out more about Hannah and her gorgeous circles for Mums here on Facebook.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

In this episode I talk about:

• why knowing yourself matters
• practicing healthy boundaries
• Frozen II and the song 'Show Yourself'
• using our energy wisely
• parenting and the balance that I strive for
• the words of the poet Cleo Wade
• matrescence and how we become a new version of ourselves
• 'labels', how they can change and taking ownership of our tendencies

Themes: growth, healing, self-worth, parenting, self-love, Valentine's Day

At the end I share a poem by Tanya Markul.

I mention Dr Becky and her podcast 'Good Inside', Zoe Charles and Episode #40 of my podcast about being a sensitive person.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

The Dad Shift is a group of men, Dads and co-parents who lead a hugely important campaign working for better paternity leave in the UK.

I am SO happy, moved and grateful to share this conversation with Alex Lloyd-Hunter of The Dad Shift.

(Please Note: We recorded this episode on December 18th 2024.)

Here's a gentle warning; at 54 minutes and 20 seconds you might want to throw something so beware(!)

In this episode we speak about:

• a bit about Alex, when 'The Dad Shift' started and why
• how poor paternity leave policies negatively affects families and why the whole family (and community*) benefits from better leave for Dads
• the experiences of the Dads behind the The Dad Shift
• how the attitudes and systems in place don't tie up — and why systemic and societal change is so badly needed
• the messages men get and what needs to change
• the socio-economic investments that other countries are making and how behind the UK is!
• *the RIPPLE effect on community of all of this
• a bit about Alex's WHY and his relationship with his Dad

Themes: fathers, fatherhood, paternity leave, patrescence

At the end, I share a poem written by Pam Ayres.

You can find out more about The Dad Shift at www.thedadshift.org.uk

We mention Pregnant Then Screwed, Dope Black Dads, and Shahroo Izadi.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

Trigger Warning: I speak very briefly about domestic abuse from 4.25—5.15 minutes

In this episode I talk about:

• how sacred our home spaces can be
• the freedom I felt when moving to where I live now
• looking at your precious space and what's made it represent YOU (and your family)
• aesthetics obsessed culture and unhealthy comparisons
• homes that don't look lived in(!) but people seem to aspire to
• a bit about mine and Matilda's home and solo parenting
• does location affect you? e.g. I found a basement flat depressing
• celebrating being a home-maker and what YOU have made your home into

Themes: home, healing, interior design, postnatal recovery, solo parenting

At the end (21 minutes in), I share a poem by Donna Ashworth.

I mention Bryce Langston, Sahara Rose, a quote from 'What No One Tells You' by Dr Alexandra Sacks and Dr Catherine Birndorf, a quote from a P!nk song; 'I Am Here'.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

Erin is a multi-passionate, award-winning, business owner, based in Camden just outside of Sydney, Australia. She is also a Mama to two children.

Erin is a degree qualified Naturopath, Nutritionist, Breastfeeding Counsellor as well as Meditation Teacher, Matrescence Coach and Reiki Healer. She helps women and their families achieve their ultimate version of wellness holistically.

In this episode we speak about:

• Erin and her children
• using homeopathy and Erin's work in naturopathy and nutrition
• breastfeeding support and why it matters
• the incredible value of women's circles and community as Mums and how much we are missing them living within patriarchal structures
• the sister wound and the judgement parents (particularly Mums) can experience
• the burlesque 'sisterhood' and how the art form has helped me
• feeding ourselves and our family to be and FEEL truly nourished
• we touch on postnatal health/nutrition, the (toxic) expectations and pressures and the need for better maternity leave
• knowing more about ingredients in food and skin products
• getting to the route of health issues (tending to the liver, gut, thyroid, stress levels, etc.) — plus the overprescription of certain things
• how fundamental certain nutrients are; for energy, REPAIR (after birth say...) and managing stress
• how powerful connecting with our body is/can be

Themes: nutrition, naturopathy, women's circles, neurodiversity, breastfeeding

At the end, I share a poem written by me.

You can find out more about Erin at www.erin-bailey.com.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

In this episode I talk about:

• protecting yours and your child's energy and why it matters
• patriarchy and the pressures we can experience
• saying "no" to invitations without needing to explain
• allowing ourselves to receive with all the giving as Mums
• having our DESIRES met, not just our needs
• being assertive enough to speak your truth
• cultural and familial expectations (that can be unhealthy, particularly for new parents)

Themes: boundaries, toxic people, relationships, postnatal recovery

At the end, I share a poem/quote from Iain Thomas.

I mention Glennon Doyle, Terri Cole and her book 'Boundary Boss', Pooja Lakshmin and her book 'Real Self Care'.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

Denise is a 49 year old Mother to one adopted autistic teenage daughter, and a nervy rescue dog, based in Hastings, UK.

She has a 32 year background in health and social care and set up her own therapy business in 2005, giving and teaching Reiki, training in trauma informed practices, and in the last 10 years specialising in working as a parenting coach for parents of neurodivergent children and adoptive families, and as a children's mindfulness practitioner.

In her spare time Denise loves walking in nearby woodlands, photography, charity shopping and dancing to soul music!

In this episode we speak about:

• Denise's background in getting to the work she does today
• a healing session I had with Denise confirming the (dark) truth
• Denise's journey with IVF and adoption
• inner child work and breaking cycles of trauma
• behaviourist attitudes and respect for children
• Denise's honest shares as a parent herself (that I find incredibly validating)
• PDA (pathological demand avoidance/persistent drive for autonomy)
• the different examples of parenting that we DON'T SEE and how damaging that is/can be
• the EASE Parenting Group on Facebook that Denise runs with a friend
• the undue pressure and GUILT parents (especially Mums) can experience
• honouring the child — the unique being — that we have
• EOTAS (Education Other Than At School)
• our passion as Mums

Themes: IVF, adoption, parenting, mothering, therapies, neurodiversity, trauma, behaviourism, education options other than school

At the end, I share a poem written by Becky Hemsley.

You can find out more about Denise at www.anchoredtherapies.co.uk.

I mention doing a yoga class with Lynette Greenaway.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

I speak about:

• practicing accepting and listening to our body
• reuniting with the love of my life, Roly (check out our conversation in Episode #56)
• the success of the podcast — THANK YOU for listening!
• what are you proud of that YOU have done/been, big or small?
• the start of my burlesque journey with 'The Cheek Of It!'
• healing more by working on my nervous system thanks to Naomi Galliano
• the challenges of 2024 and my big work decision (see Episode #59)
• new chapters
• tending to the body, from top to toe, for both healing and greater pleasure

Themes: love, burlesque, the nervous system, parenting, pleasure, healing

At the end I share a poem by Danielle Doby.

I mention my naturopath Ebony, coach Bek Antonucci and stylist pal, Angela Sellar.

Do share anything in reflection if you wish! I'd love to hear from you. I'm @lucywyldecoaching on Instagram.

And to find out more about me see my website lucywyldecoaching.com

This is a rerelease of Episode #30; a meditation to hopefully help you relax.

As this busy time of year, it's possible there may be no time — or you don't have the headspace — to listen to a podcast sharing things to take on or a powerful conversation. Therefore I wanted to make today's episode a simple one to listen to…

All I warmly invite you to do, is:

• listen with patience for your ability to relax and try not to judge yourself
• notice the sound, the depth and the feeling of your breath
• allow yourself to pause and relax, even just a little bit more

This meditation doesn't have a Christmas theme, so it's suitable to listen to all year round. But I wish you a pleasant festive period and beyond, all the same.

Lucy xx

There will be some useful takeaways in this episode for you no doubt; hearing a bit about my recent announcement regarding my business and more.

As with any episode I share, it may be validating, it my be healing but most of all I hope you know that all emotions are valid and I'm not shy to show it all.

In this episode I speak about:

• my recent big decision about my work
• 'giving up' and the messages around it
• progress with Pickle (the highly reactive dog)
• healing and feeling all the feelings
• Marie Forleo's and Mel Robbins' podcasts
• Christmas as a solo Mum
• my debut solo act as a burlesque performer

Themes: Christmas, solo motherhood, rescue dogs, burlesque

At the end of the podcast I share a poem by me.

I mention Daisy Cutter. I share a brief quote from Steven Bartlett's podcast 'The Diary Of A CEO'.

To follow my burlesque journey on Instagram, find me HERE. I did my fabulous Burlesque courses with 'The Cheek Of It'.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please consider leaving a review on the platform that you listen. Doing that REALLY helps spread the word so much!

Click here for Spotify or here for Apple Podcasts.

Want to learn more about me? Check out www.lucywyldecoaching.com

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and you can sign up for my now occasional newsletters at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

Carlie Jaye Johnson is a Mindful Drinking Mentor for Mums, guiding sober curious mothers to trust their instincts and cultivate healthier habits. She is a mother of two children and is based in Cairns, Australia.

With certifications in Addiction Recovery and Matrescence Coaching, Carlie supports mothers through 1:1 coaching packages, mixed media art workshops, monthly sober sister circles, and vibrant Facebook community (links below).

TRIGGER WARNINGS! We touch on suicide, substance misuse and birth trauma so please go gently if these topics are sensitive for you.

In this episode we speak about:

• Carlie's journey with alcohol and working with a coach to become sober
• my feelings about and relationship with alcohol over the years
• substance use disorder (SUD)
• the work of Dr Gabor Maté
• how parenting and drinking is, for some reason, regularly PORTRAYED as going hand in hand(!)
• Carlie's most challenging moment that tested her sobriety
• the 'pillars' that support us and learning what REALLY matters
• using art as a form of therapy; to bring up and process emotions
• people who boast about drinking to excess; why and how that is 'normalised'
• how 'white knuckling' it doesn't always work on it's own
• Carlie's experience of motherhood, matrescence and the 'inner split' that we can feel (for more about Matrescence see Episode #34)

Themes: alcoholism, sober curious, sobriety, art as therapy, motherhood, mental health, trauma, birth trauma, having a VBAC after c-section

At the end, I share a poem written by me.

I mention my solo Episode #50 about trauma.

You can connect with Carlie and her work here on Instagram, on Facebook or her website timetoshinesobriety.com

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

Would you like to work with me? Get in touch today to book a FREE 30-minute call.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and at www.lucywyldecoaching.com, where you can sign up for my newsletter!

Although I work with women from all walks of life now, I used to specialise solely in pre- and postnatal exercise, as a Birth Recovery Coach. And when you've had a baby, or are recovering from something else, it can be VITAL to remind yourself of your innate worth, minus the f**king medals for sporting events(!).

We live in a very ableist society and sometimes I feel that there are SO many people that feel unseen. So this episode is for them...

If you enjoy this or other episodes, please share the link with a friend or take screen shot and share it on your socials. I would really appreciate your help spreading the word.

In this episode I speak about:

• the value of true rest
• gentle and liberating ways to move your body
• the wonderful impact that dancing can have
• a former 1:1 client who went from wanting the confidence to dance at her work Christmas party — to leading the dance floor that night!
• what may seem 'basic' can be valuable
• struggles with your mental health? I get it
• respecting your body's varying abilities and why exercise does not need to be intense
• you're JUST as amazing! (I love my 'rant' 13.30 minutes in)
• my fondness for bouldering at The Climbing Hangar

Themes: birth recovery, rest, dance, postnatal depletion, postnatal exercise

At the end of the podcast I share a poem by me.

I mention Kimmy Fitness.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please consider leaving a review on the platform that you listen.

Click here for Spotify or here for Apple Podcasts.

Want to learn more about working with me?

Book in for a free 30-minute discovery call by emailing me at lucy@lucywyldecoaching.com.

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my biweekly newsletter at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

Roly supports me to the nth degree, and TOTALLY gets my message about supporting Mums, parents and standing up for what matters.

Roly is THE most incredible man and supportive partner I've ever had the honour of being with. And to those who know we've separated twice in the past, it's wonderful having repaired to be where we are now, as in love and strong as ever.

To give you an idea of who supports me, and is part of my 'village', I wanted to introduce Roly to you.

Volume warning! at 34 minutes there is some loud laughter(!)

TRIGGER WARNING: at minutes in Roly shares his story of emotional and physical abuse.

In this episode we speak about:

• Roly's work in carpentry, fencing and other woodwork
• a bit about who he is, his interests and passion for good storytelling
• Pickle, the rescue dog and the intense challenges of having a reactive dog (for both him and me)
• grief for experiences we can learn to expect
• boundaries and the importance of autonomy for all ages (and beings)
• what Roly witnesses as a bonus parent and how vital it is to look after our needs for the benefit of our children
• the potential challenges of being a 'step-parent'
• beware of the volume at 34 minutes in — we have quite a giggle!!!
• the deep value of connecting with and listening to our body
• Roly's experience of abuse and escaping it

Themes: parenting, rescue dogs, domestic abuse, boundaries, mental health and fitness

Roly's work features in the film The Boy in the Shed. And here is the video we mention 37 minutes in.

At the end, I share a poem written by Nikita Gill.

You can connect with Roly and his work here on Instagram or on Facebook.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

Would you like to work with me? Get in touch today to book a FREE 30-minute call.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and at www.lucywyldecoaching.com, where you can sign up for my newsletter!

Since then it has been lovely to connect more with Kay as fellow Mums and poets and I'm delighted to share this conversation and more about Kay in this episode.

In this episode we speak about:

• Kay's journey with writing poetry and sharing it
• birth, motherhood and Kay's experience of Matrescence so far
• raising children with dual heritage
• judgement and racism in society and at school
• supporting and being advocates for our children
• how 'we' need to be better at having difficult conversations
• apologising with integrity
• knowing our capacity and not judging ourselves
• busting motherhood myths and the ripple effect of that
• Kay's video for her poem 'This Is My Body' and working with Her Story and Co.
• body image and loving ourselves more at any stage/age

Themes: mothering, poetry, matrescence, racism, story writing, boundaries, body image, mental health

You can connect with Kay and her work here on Instagram. And you can find a link to the amazing video and poem we speak about, 'This Is My Body' here.

At the end, I share a poem written by me.

I mention my Goddess Circles, and you can find out more about those HERE on my website.

I also mention Harriet Lerner's book 'Why Won't You Apologize? Healing Big Betrayals and Everyday Hurts'. And 'Eating in the Light of the Moon' by Anita Johnston.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

Would you like to work with me? Get in touch today to book a FREE 30-minute call.

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and at www.lucywyldecoaching.com, where you can sign up for my newsletter!

Many don't speak about how the load and expectations can become heavier at this time of year and suffer in silence, whilst feeling like a pressure cooker(!).

In this episode I speak about:

• reducing stress and why it's important
• listening to your body
• the heaviness of real or perceived pressures and expectations
• welcoming greater enjoyment
• honouring your capacity at any given time (aka giving less f**ks about some of the things)
• a funny share about buying prezzies for Matilda
• boundaries and dealing with the emotions of others LESS (if you can)
• how our energy can be affected by people and places
• being an advocate for your/your family's needs and desires
• do you want to/have to travel around Christmas?!

Themes: boundaries, Christmas, family, parenting, relationships,

At the end of the podcast I share a poem by me.

The books I mention are 'Call of the Wild' by Kimberly Ann Johnson, 'When the Body Says No' by Gabor Maté and 'The Body Keeps The Score' by Bessel van der Kolk. I also mention Mark Groves.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please consider leaving a review on the platform that you listen. Click here for Spotify or here for Apple Podcasts.

Want to learn more about working with me? Book in for a free 30-minute discovery call by emailing me at lucy@lucywyldecoaching.com.

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

In this episode I'm speaking to Tara Choudrie. Tara is a dance teacher, facilitator, and educator who is currently studying for her MA at Rambert Dance School. Her research area is supporting mothers working in the dance sector, with a specific focus on maternal mental health and dancers. She is a Mother of two boys whom have a dual heritage.

In this episode we speak about:

• being a Mother of boys and raising dual nationality children
• showing our emotions and being advocates for our feelings, whatever our age
• Tara's varied work as a dance teacher
• Tara's MA studies and incredible research into Mothers returning to dance as a career
• going through Matrescence in the dance world
• preparing for motherhood better and really knowing our boundaries as Mothers
• how the mindset and qualities of a dancer can impact motherhood
• Matrescence/Patrescence awareness and why it matters
• how maternal mental health can be pathologised instead of recognising MATRESCENCE
• the pressure to always do/be more that we can so often feel
• how motherhood can 'upgrade' us, our skills and CV — BIG time!!

Themes: parenting boys, mothering, dance, matrescence, hinduism, baby reflux

You can connect with Tara and her work here on Instagram. And you can find a link to Tara's MA studies here.

At the end, I share a poem by Mata Hari.

I mention Shahroo Izadi.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

Would you like to work with me?

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and at www.lucywyldecoaching.com, where you can sign up for my newsletter!

In this episode I speak about:

• sharing my voice and my opinions openly over 52 weeks and how I've grown
• some of the conversations I've had over the past year
• how can you celebrate yourself?!
• I give thanks to Flo Lacy for being my podcast producer when I started
• and thanks to Mike Merrick for helping me with editing also
• thank you so much for the reviews and the messages I've received

A big THANK YOU for listening!

Themes: mental health, motherhood, healing, growth

At the end of the podcast I share a poem by Donna Ashworth.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please consider leaving a review on the platform that you listen. Click here for Spotify or here for Apple Podcasts.

Want to learn more about working with me? Book in for a free 30-minute discovery call by emailing me at lucy@lucywyldecoaching.com.

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

Rebecca co-authored the book 'How To Be A Happy Single Parent', with her friend Zoe Desmond, founder of the Frolo app.

TRIGGER WARNING: we talk about birth trauma at 36.30 to 38.00.

In this episode we speak about:

• Rebecca and Zoe's book 'How To Be A Happy Single Parent'
• the shame and loneliness in single parenthood at times, and connecting with others on the Frolo app
• the evolution of Rebecca's career before and after becoming a Mum
• the (ridiculous) stigma to being a divorcée
• failure/perceived failure
• the media's portrayal of single parents, Rebecca finding her niche and writing what she needed to see represented
• 'trends', masks, inauthenticity, the curation of life that's put out — and the need for honesty
• the self-doubt we can have, especially in mothering
• the parenting paradigms we are in and have come from
• birth trauma, the lack of REAL preparation (from certain birth prep classes) that we can often have for motherhood
• Rebecca's experience of matrescence over the years and growing alongside our children
• dating after divorce

Themes: single parenting, single mothering, journalism, matrescence, sexuality

You can connect with Rebecca and her work here on Instagram. And you can find the book 'How To Be A Happy Single Parent' anywhere you buy books.

At the end, I share a poem written by Jess Urlichs.

(Donna Laine Fine Jewellery is the lady/shop I speak about 13 minutes in.)

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

Would you like to work with me?

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and at www.lucywyldecoaching.com, where you can sign up for my newsletter!

Trigger Warning! — I speak a little about birth trauma.

WARNING! - I talk about Father Christmas at 15 minutes 50 seconds to 16 minutes 15 seconds.

In this episode I speak about:

• the gaslighting that can so often happen when speaking about our trauma
• birth trauma; my experience of it and the huge effect it can have on families
• the work of Dr Rebecca Moore and the Birth Trauma Conference
• 'silver linings', why there sometimes aren't any and how trauma can't always be 'swept under the rug'
• Gabor Maté's work on trauma and his documentary 'The Wisdom Of Trauma'
• being bullied and the positives of 'bad' things happening to us
• post-traumatic growth
• one person's trauma isn't the same for another and validating your own feelings

I share quotes from Gabor Maté, Alan Turing, Leonard Cohen, Brené Brown and Mark Groves.

I mention the book 'How To Heal A Bad Birth' by Debby Gould and Melissa J. Bruijn, that helped me a lot after birth trauma.

Here is a link to the blog piece I mention about trauma that's on my website.

Here is some more information on Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG).

Themes: trauma, birth trauma, healing, addiction, post-traumatic growth

At the end of the podcast I share a poem by Tanya Markul.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please consider leaving a review on the platform that you listen. Click here for Spotify or here for Apple Podcasts.

Want to learn more about working with me? Book in for a free 30-minute discovery call by emailing me at lucy@lucywyldecoaching.com.

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

Penny is an artist, a counsellor and a Mother to two grown up children. Penny used to be a client of mine, and it's been wonderful to remain good friends, witness her grow and step into who she is more.

What we talk about (particularly 35 minutes onwards) is absolute GOLD; about knowing we deserve time for ourselves.

In this episode we speak about:

• Penny's passions and the work she does
• the experiences in parenting grown up children
• consciously 'unmothering'
• Penny's journey with art and becoming an artist
• our own self-development, growth and how to replenish
• defying what others think of us decades on
• the work of Dr Gabor Maté
• Penny's experience of pregnancy, birthing premature babies and her matrescence; both early on and to this day
• how common self-abandoning is in motherhood and going against the grain to remember we matter too!
• the sociology of Motherhood (see EP43 for my chat with Motherhood Sociologist Dr Sophie Brock)

Themes: unmothering, martyr mothering, counselling, art, matrescence, therapy

At the end, I share a poem written by me.

To see more about Penny see here on her website. And connect with Penny here on Instagram.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

Would you like to work with me?

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and at www.lucywyldecoaching.com, where you can sign up for my newsletter!

Warning! — If listening around little ones, I mention Father Christmas at 14.50.

In this episode I speak about:

• the pace of modern life and how it can feel to some
• the book 'Wintering' by Katherine May and slowing down during divorce/stressful times
• dropping the apologies and prioritising what truly matters
• doing less at certain times during your monthly cycle
• Glennon Doyle's brilliant words
• the 'revving reflex' and the work of Dr Scott Lyons
• simple ways and places you could integrate a slower pace

I share quotes from Glennon Doyle, the book 'Wintering' by Katherine May and from Carl Honoré.

Here is a link to the podcast I mention with Mel Robbins talking to Dr Scott Lyons.

Themes: wintering, slowness, boundaries,

At the end of the podcast I share a poem by Emma Heaphy.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please consider leaving a review on the platform that you listen. Click here for Spotify or here for Apple Podcasts.

Want to learn more about working with me? Book in for a free 30-minute discovery call here!

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

Annie Richardson is qualified holistic counsellor, healer, and women’s circle facilitator with over two decades of experience. Through her work as a Birth and Postpartum Doula, specialising in Matrescence, Annie saught professional education to become a certified counsellor specialising in the Birth to Rebirth of women's lives.

Outside of Annie's professional work, she is a Mother of 4 and a Grandmother to 1. She's been parenting for nearly 30 years and has gone through the full spectrum of parenting.

I love how Annie's wisdom oozes from her and she's is so f**king REAL.

In this episode we speak about:

• Annie's start to Motherhood at age 17
• Mothering grown up children compared to little ones
• riding through grief in all it's shapes and forms e.g. grieving the life we had before becoming a Mum
• the need for freedom that arises and balancing the 'scales'
• the HUGE power of someone truly meeting us where we're at
• self-discovery work and finding/meeting ourselves through Motherhood
• the physical and sensory experience of being in a 'postnatal body' (what is our own and what is society's BS)
• early menopause, menopause, post menopause and giving less f**ks
• healing through burlesque
• conscious 'unmothering'
• EXPLICIT language at 52 minutes in(!)
• the wisdom of menopause and 'sagescence'

Themes: mothering, grief, pregnancy and postpartum care, self-discovery, menopause, burlesque, human design

At the end, I share a poem by Tanya Markul.

To see more about Annie see here on her website. And connect with Annie here on Instagram. You can also check out her YouTube channel.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

Would you like to work with me?

For more insights and to contact me you can find me on Instagram, and at www.lucywyldecoaching.com, where you can sign up for my newsletter!

In this episode I speak about:

• the difference between "are you still breastfeeding?" or "are you breastfeeding?" and how loaded similar questions can be (plus the endless unsolicited advice given to Mums and pregnant women)
• 'just' a Mum being the biggest understatement ever!
• how it can feel to be asked the every day platitudes
• words we can use to be less demeaning, upsetting and offensive
• how healing it can be to use words differently, especially around birth
• postnatal depletion as opposed to postnatal depression
• switching from blame to a question
• the work of Jono Lancaster
• gentle language I use in my teaching
• the musts and the shoulds we say to ourselves...
• "is she a 'good' baby?"!

Here are the two articles I read from; 'Six pregnancy terms you probably won't hear again' and 'Why are pregnancy terms so demeaning?'.

Themes: language, birth, pregnancy, breastfeeding, yoga, emotional inteligence, the podcast 'Child'

At the end of the podcast I share a poem called 'Just One?' written by me.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please consider leaving a review on the platform that you listen. Click here for Spotify or here for Apple Podcasts.

Want to learn more about working with me? Book in for a free 30-minute discovery call here!

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

Rebecca’s mission is to inspire, teach and empower clients to become the most limitless and elevated version of themself by exploring deep within, helping them to identify and heal limiting beliefs that block them from transforming to new levels.

She currently lives in Cornwall with her 5 year old son.

TRIGGER WARNING: 7 minutes in we very briefly touch on sexual abuse

In this episode we speak about:

• Rebecca's background and what led her to the work she does today
• Rebecca's struggles with her health in pregnancy, PoTS syndrome and what came up in early motherhood
• diagnosis with PMDD and healing with rapid transformational therapy
• doing our own inner work; how we can change and grow in life and people's responses to this
• the work of Dr Bruce Lipton
• Roly (my boyfriend) and I getting back together, why and how powerful a lesson it was for each of us
• people who are energetic matches for us when we truly value ourselves
• finding our identity as a Mum and our 'Becoming'
• Rebecca's experience of birth and matrescence
• knowing ourselves better and Human Design in parenting
• the importance of doulas and postnatal care
• investing in yourself and support when it's needed and the huge impact it can have
• an explanation of Human Design

Themes: hypnotherapy, hyperemesis gravidarum, PMDD, birth, human design, motherhood, matrescence

To see more about Rebecca see here on her website. And connect with Rebecca here on Instagram.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

Would you like to work with me? Book in for a free discovery call here!

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.lucywyldecoaching.com

In this episode I speak about:

• the difference it can make really listening to your breath; in everyday life and during yoga or fitness classes
• breathing to help with driving anxiety (particularly with young children in the car)
• listening to your breath while immersed in nature; deepening the experience
• using the breath as a tool in movement practices: for ease and/or power
• how the breath can help reduce stress, and calm the nervous system
• my experience doing 'Transformational Breath' with Rebecca Dennis
• using the breath whilst pregnant or postnatally for greater benefits; pelvic floor and core connection
• the beauty in breath 'work' for introspection and self-connection

Themes: breath, breathing, breath work, yoga, exercise, pregnancy and postnatal exercise

At the end of the podcast I share a poem written by me.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please consider leaving a review on the platform that you listen. Click here for Spotify or here for Apple Podcasts.

Want to learn more about working with me? Book in for a free 30-minute discovery call here!

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.lucywyldecoaching.com.

I've been absorbing Sophie's wisdom via podcasts and social media for a few years, so it's a pleasure and an honour to have her on the podcast for this juicy conversation.

Sophie's work in Motherhood Studies is fascinating and incredibly validating. Sophie is also a single Mum to her daughter.

I HIGHLY recommend listening to (and/or sharing) this podcast whether you're expecting, or a mother to children of any age.

In this episode we speak about:

• the difference between motherING and motherHOOD
• the 'Fish Tank of Motherhood Model'
• what we are conditioned to think a 'Mother' is and the 'Perfect Mother Myth'
• a personal share of mine; feelings about having another baby or not
• grief in motherhood and how all emotions are valid yet not widely accepted in society
• maternal rage; feeling it, acknowledging it and expressing it
• not having Mum guilt
• how different mothering can look for each family; disabilities, neurodivergence and much more
• Sophie's offerings and breaking down the learning

Themes: motherhood, mothering, parenting, maternal rage, disabilities and neurodivergence, fatherhood

We also mention the work of Minna Dubin and Adrienne Rich.

To see more of Sophie's work and about her resources and courses see here on her website. And connect with Sophie here on Instagram.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, I would really appreciate it if you could please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

Would you like to work with me? Book in for a free discovery call here!

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

It was so lovely recording an episode with her, in two short stints and hearing what she had to say.

In this episode we speak about:

• our love of dance
• Matilda's fabulous year 4 teacher
• gymnastics and Matilda's passion for it
• slime recipes
• rescue dogs and empathy
• turning 10 years old

Themes: dance, slime, gymnastics, rescue dogs, stick insects

At the end, Matilda reads a poem written by Rose Milligan.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please consider leaving a review on the platform that you listen. Click here for Spotify or here for Apple Podcasts.

Want to learn more about working with me? Book in for a free 30-minute discovery call here!

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

Becca has been a Homeopath since 2009, a Reflexologist since 2001 and has added Accredited Divorce and Breakup Coaching in 2023. She specialises in Women's Health with a particular focus on gynaecological, auto-immune and hormone issues.

Becca is also mum and step mum to four wonderful teenage boys and a little girl.

In this episode we speak about:

• What led Becca to the work she does today
• lichen sclerosus, how it presents and sadly how common a misdiagnosis is
• the huge importance of knowing our anatomy (mostly the difference between the vagina and the vulva)
• the link between toxic relationships and certain conditions
• my work with baby massage and starting early with reverence for the body
• how we're not taught to communicate 'difficult' stuff and why this is a problem
• Jessica Pin's story and her work in clitoral advocacy
• Bek Antonucci and her work de-shaming herpes
• learning about and feeling our emotions fully
• difficult relationships ending and how that can affect us
• letting go of shame and being advocates for ourselves and our health

Themes: lichen sclerosus, vulval and vaginal conditions, herpes, relationship difficulties, trauma, sex

To see a model of the clitoris and Becca's article about it, see here. To learn more about Becca's talk on lichen sclerosus that she mentions, see here on Becca's website. And connect with Becca here on Instagram.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

Do you want to work with me? Book in for a free discovery call here!

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

In this episode I speak about:

• when I learned about HSP's and how it helped me
• Susan Cain's work about the 'bittersweet' temperament and her TED Talk
• Elena Herdieckerhoff's brilliant video: 'The gentle power of highly sensitive people'
• why feeling our emotions fully can be beautiful, powerful and so healing
• tools and tips for managing being an HSP

Themes: highly sensitive people, mental health, emotional wellbeing

At the end, I share a poem written by Danielle Doby.

To see more about Susan Cain, see her website here. I also mention the book 'Come As You Are' by Emily Nagoski.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please consider leaving a review on the platform that you listen. Click here for Spotify or here for Apple Podcasts.

Want to learn more about working with me? Book in for a free 30-minute discovery call here!

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

This conversation, Naomi's wisdom and experience is absolute gold and so, so powerful for helping us to regulate our emotions better, as women and Mothers.

In this episode we speak about:

• Naomi's journey with motherhood
• Naomi's work with healing the nervous system, past trauma, intergenerational trauma, and changing your self-talk from negative to positive
• an explanation of the vagus nerve, the nervous system states and how we can look after ourselves when empowered with this knowledge
• women's LEARNED inability to know our own needs, and/or to ask for help with our needs being met — and what that means for our emotional states
• parenting and neurodivergence
• my experience working with Naomi and the positive impact it had
• how invaluable self awareness is
• the importance of learning about the nervous system, at any age, and how our children can benefit

Themes: Motherhood, Matrescence, The Nervous System, Mental Health

To learn more about Naomi's work see here on Facebook. Or here on Instagram.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

Want to learn more about working with me? Why not book in for a commitment free 30-minute connection call here?

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

For a long time I held shame over what I share in this episode, but I know I am not alone in this experience, and wish/hope to help others in exposing my truth.

Trigger Warnings: I speak on domestic abuse (emotional, financial, physical, sexual), infidelity, birth trauma.

In this episode I speak about:

• the disbelief at my reality and the break down of my relationship
• how common abuse is and we are not taught to look out for abusive behaviour
• matrescence, patrescence and how couples can be affected
• the awful state my self-worth was in that led to me being groomed and assaulted
• our human need to be seen, heard and appreciated

The song I couldn't remember the name of was Take Care by Beach House.

Themes: domestic abuse (emotional, physical, sexual), infidelity, birth trauma

At the end, I share a poem written by me.

One of the podcasts I said I'd share is no longer available. The other is this from 'Behind The Mother Mask' with Annie Breen. Click here for Apple Podcasts and here for Spotify.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please consider leaving a review on the platform that you listen. Click here for Spotify or here for Apple Podcasts.

Want to learn more about working with me? Book in for a free 30-minute discovery call here!

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

This is such a beautiful, REAL and honest conversation. Elena shares her experience of motherhood and her work and how she came to illustrate story books with paper collage.

I first saw an example of her work with the book 'My Mom Has Feelings Too' by K.D. Stoddard.

In this episode we speak about:

• Elena's experience of birth in 3 different countries
• the self-judgement, self-alienation and disconnection from other mothers we can so often have
• Elena's Dad playing his part in helping with her support network
• how 'beautiful spaces' are not everything and letting go of commercialised ideas (I f**king LOVE this point!)
• my experience with my emotions as a new Mama and why I was drawn to the book of K.D. Stoddard
• the precious 'WHY' behind Elena's work and her training/background
• my awful experience with a publishing company and the gatekeeping/censoring that can happen
• the stories held in the paper!
• another book Elena's worked on called 'Wild Trails To The Sea' by Penelope Jackson

Themes: Motherhood, Story Telling, Art, Mental Health

To learn more about Elena's work see here on her Instagram, or on Elena's website.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

Want to learn more about working with me? Why not book in for a commitment free 30-minute connection call here?

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

Why? Because I know many of my followers and listeners are intrigued to know more!

Also to (hopefully) inspire you to do something truly for YOU! Because it's so important to find something that we LOVE — and that lights us up — as well as being a Mama, partner, friend, etc.

In this episode I speak about:

• body confidence
• learning to be adored
• the sisterhood and community!
• using creativity to convey a message
• seeing REAL bodies moving in the flesh (compared to the fake and airbrushed)
• the art form of Burlesque; it's elegance and celebration
• an incident with(out) a nipple tassel
• performing in Soho in the midst of Pride month

Big thanks to my teachers Petis Pois and Ava Ventura! And Zoe at 'The Cheek Of It!'.

Themes: Burlesque, Female Empowerment, Postnatal Mental Health

At the end, I share a poem written by me.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please consider leaving a review on the platform that you listen. Click here for Spotify or here for Apple Podcasts.

Want to learn more about working with me? Book in for a free 30-minute discovery call here!

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

Amy is a Mama of 3 and one of leading voices on Matrescence in the world today. She leads a training programme (that changed my life!) called 'Mama Rising' and is the author of a book by the same name.

In this episode we speak about:

• Amy's landing into motherhood 16 years ago
• Her discovery of — and reaction to learning — the word matrescence 10 years into motherhood
• the injustice of not knowing this word sooner
• acknowledging our own mothers' matrescence
• how Amy changed her coaching and support method to be better for mothers (this made me cry as it's SO important!) — and the coaching model that some use is so toxic and adds to the problems
• my awakening/cracking open upon learning about matrescence
• experiencing matrescence mixed with domestic abuse; gaslighting, control and coercion
• post-traumatic GROWTH and what that can do to/for us
• what matrescence teaches us and how positive that is for this generation and the ones yet to come
• towards the end I share a poem I wrote for Amy

Themes: Matrescence, Motherhood, Parenting, Mental Health, Birth

To learn more about Amy's work see here on Amy's website.

We speak of Dr Aurelie Athan and Dr Oscar Serralach.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

Want to learn more about working with me? Why not book in for a commitment free 30-minute connection call here?

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

I'm not sure why it's taken me 30 episodes to get to this incredibly important topic, but anyhoo…

In this episode I speak about:

• when the word was coined (and it took 49 f**king years to be added to the dictionary!) and by whom
• the TED Talk that changed my life
• my teacher, Amy Taylor-Kabbaz and her course, 'Mama Rising'
• Dr Aurelie Athan and her work at The Motherhood Centre in New York
• postnatal depletion (not depression) and the work of Dr Oscar Serralach
• how matrescence affects EVERY layer of our being
• Lucy Jones' book, 'Matrescence'
• why your matrescence will be different depending on many factors

Themes: Matrescence, Mental Health, Motherhood, Patrescence, Postnatal Depletion

At the end, I share a poem written by me.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please consider leaving a review on the platform that you listen. Click here for Spotify or here for Apple Podcasts.

Want to learn more about working with me? Book in for a free 30-minute discovery call here!

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.….com.

Beth lives in Asheville, North Carolina in the US. She is an amazing woman, a mother to four girls, and such a powerful voice in the motherhood space.

I loved this conversation so much. Thank you Beth! — And thanks so much to all my guests, past and future!

TRIGGER WARNING: At 34.25—38.22 we speak about birth. Not birth trauma but in case birth talk upsets you I wanted to let you know.

In this episode we speak about:

• Beth's work coaching Mothers and couples
• Beth's experience living in Mexico and writing her book
• the intensive parenting paradigms we have to contend with
• how we're not as flawed as we are led to believe — the 'norms' and the structures do NOT support parents
• the ripple effect (on our kids) of truly looking after ourselves
• giving, receiving and learning to take too...
• the profound importance of instincts
• Beth's experience of birth and becoming a Mum at 17
• what a 'soul fire steward' is and tending to your flame...

Themes: Motherhood, Parenting, Mental Health, Personal Growth, Birth, Matrescence

At the end, I share an excerpt from Beth's book, Motherwhelmed.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

Want to learn more about working with me? Why not book in for a commitment free 30-minute connection call here?

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

TRIGGER WARNING: I talk of my birth experience, birth trauma, and how fragile I was as a new Mum.

I wanted to speak about all of the things that I felt as I know so many Mamas who do not feel seen in their experience of Motherhood. This is due to the (often toxic, and certainly detrimental) emphasis on being the 'perfect Mum' that we see all over the place.

In this episode I speak about:

• my expectations of birth and early motherhood
• my birth experience
• c-section scar massage and healing
• moving gently after birth and why
• not being in love with my baby right away
• therapies I benefitted from
• research I've done to help me heal

Themes: Mental Health, Mothering, Birth Trauma

At the end, I share a poem written by me.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please consider leaving a review on the platform that you listen. Click here for Spotify or here for Apple Podcasts.

Want to learn more about working with me? Book in for a free 30-minute discovery call here!

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

As well as the founder of 'Exhale', Alex is a Dad to two girls, husband to Kirsty (co-founder of Exhale) and keen runner.

In this episode we speak about:

• Alex's health journey and the story of how 'Exhale' came about
• where their delicious coffee comes from and how it is made to be so healthy
• the many health benefits of good quality coffee and the decaffeination method used by Exhale
• some of the research on consuming caffeine in pregnancy and as a nursing Mum

To try a free bag of Exhale Healthy Coffee click HERE.

You can find more about Exhale Coffee at exhalecoffee.com, as well as here on Instagram.

Themes: Health, Coffee, Motherhood, Parenting, Mental Health,

At the end, I share a poem written by me.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

Want to learn more about working with me? Why not book in for a commitment free 30-minute connection call here?

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

Having done guided meditations for many, many years during my yoga classes and 1:1 sessions I wanted to treat you, my listeners, to this guided relaxation.

If you're new to meditation, please don't put any pressure on yourself to feel anything in particular.

Whether you get to listen to this during the craziness of half term or another precious stolen window of time, I invite you to…

• listen
• breath deeply
• and relax a little more

PLEASE NOTE: Do not listen while driving as you may get dozy(!). I've been told my voice is "like a balm" and I do try my best to help you relax to the max ;)

Enjoy!

~ Lucy xx

Themes: Mental Health, Mothering, Relaxation, Breath

At the end, I share a poem written by Danielle Doby.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please consider leaving a review on the platform that you listen. Click here for Spotify or here for Apple Podcasts.

Want to learn more about working with me? Book in for a free 30-minute discovery call here!

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

Jodie and I have both learned, grown and evolved so much through — and since — the 'Mama Rising' course, and I wanted to share Jodie's story here.

In this episode we speak about:

• menstrual cycle awareness, what we're not taught about our bodies and passing the wisdom on to our children
• the challenges of ADHD and motherhood combined
• healing in hindsight when you find out more about yourself
• matrescence and ADHD
• Jodie's expression as an artist and finding her voice through collage

You can find Jodie and her work on Instagram at @cherishandbloom_art

Themes: ADHD, Motherhood, Parenting, Mental Health, Art

At the end, I share a poem written by Danielle Doby.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

Want to learn more about working with me? Why not book in for a commitment free 30-minute connection call here?

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

In this episode I speak about:

• the effects of poor posture
• practicing reverence for your body and allowing greater ease
• 'superhero pose' and how better posture can go a long way in contributing towards how you feel
• thinking of your posture when walking, standing, seated, driving, holding children, etc.
• the role of exercise to help with posture
• reducing stress wherever possible

Themes: Posture, Fitness, Mental Health, Emotional Health, Parenting

At the end, I share a quote from Regena Thomashauer.

Want to know more about my Goddess Circles? Click HERE.

For more from me, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

Mike is one of my good friends and (especially after my experience with toxic relationships) I've always been in awe and appreciation of how good a partner and Dad he is.

Mike and I are obviously not relationship coaches, but it's great to reflect in this honest and open conversation as parents and partners to other people, as to what can make things work better.

In this episode we speak about:

• the importance of good communication
• working on 'keeping the spark'
• being a supportive partner and allowing one other space
• making time to be truly present for your children and the difference that can make
• how he has learned to be a better parent
• making time to nourish himself as well as being a partner, a parent and giving to his work

Mike is a (brilliant!) sports therapist and the Founder of New Health Project.

Themes: Relationships, Fatherhood, Parenting, Mental Health

At the end, I share a poem written by Karen McMillan.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

Want to learn more about working with me? Why not book in for a commitment free 30-minute connection call here?

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

In this episode I speak about:

• the unnecessary judgement and bitchiness between women that can damage us
• celebrating our 'sisters', our female friends more
• witnessing the sister wound BS in programmes for young people
• healing ourselves to be more comfortable in who we are
• how a supportive sisterhood can be like medicine
• and I share some fabulous quotes from Gloria Steinem

Themes: the sister wound, women's circles, mental health, parenting

At the end, I share a poem written by Danielle Doby.

Want to know more about my Goddess Circles? Click HERE.

For more from me, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

As well as the above Angela is a late diagnosed 'ADHD-er' and a Mum of 2. Angela is so talented at what she does and has helped me lots of over the years with her skills.

In this episode we speak about:

• Angela's passion for creativity
• Angela's experience of being diagnosed with ADHD in 2021, the impact of that and what she has learned about herself since
• having ADHD and being a (new) Mum
• Angela's background and training in fashion and makeup
• rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD)
• a brilliant quote from Regena Thomashauer
• my healing, learning & growth that came from working with Angela
• 'dopamine dressing' and why it helps to dress how YOU like
• the work Angela does with women to help them feel unapologetically themselves!

Themes: Makeup, Styling, ADHD, Parenting, Motherhood, Mental Health

At the end, I share a poem written by Penny McKenzie.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

Want to learn more about working with me? Why not book in for a commitment free 30-minute connection call here?

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

Don't worry, this isn't me just moaning about my experience and the injustice of today's society for parents.

I share some truths that many/all Mums feel but we're encouraged to gaslight ourselves and cover it up.

F**k that!

You matter. Your feelings matter. And support for your struggles matters. — Why do you think I called the podcast what I did?!

In this episode I speak about:

• loving your child deeply AND motherhood being hard
• the HUGE importance of feeling seen, heard and acknowledged, especially in matrescence and motherhood
• speaking our truth, and why it matters to express sadness and anger
• the many feelings we can go through in a short space of time
• reverence for the BIG work we do as Mums
• processing trauma and seeking help

Themes: Motherhood, Mental Health, Parenting, Matrescence

I mention Emily Nagoski and her book 'Come As You Are'.

At the end, I share a poem written by me.

Did you enjoy this episode? Want to learn more about working with me? Why not book in for a commitment free 30-minute connection call here?

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

This is one of my favourite topics — and most commonly talked about with clients.

In this episode I speak about:

• spreading out in Savasana, taking up the space on your yoga mat — and beyond
• growing more comfortable in who you are
• from self-silencing to being calmly assertive
• knowing that anger is valid and natural, whatever your gender
• the beauty and wisdom in growing older
• over-apologising and you are not 'too much'

Themes: Yoga, Motherhood, Mental Health, Parenting, Matrescence

I mention Amy Taylor-Kabbaz.

At the end, I share a poem written by Nikita Gill.

Did you enjoy this episode? Want to learn more about working with me? Why not book in for a commitment free 30-minute connection call here?

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

This is one of my favourite topics — and most commonly talked about with clients.

Here is a link to episode one of my podcast, as I mention: Apple podcasts here and Spotify here.

In this episode I speak about:

• energetic vacuums and radiators
• not taking on other people's negative projections
• holding your own in who you are, what you do and why
• knowing your approach is valid and expressing resistance to receiving unsolicited advice
• letting go of people pleasing and over apologising
• menstrual cycle awareness (and pre-menstrual TRUTH) and planning your diary to avoid certain things and people
• inner child work
• looking after me and how it helps me and my daughter
• the mother load
• Dr Gabor Maté's research on women and ill health

Themes: Boundaries, Parenting, Motherhood, Mental Health

At the end, I share a poem written by Danielle Doby.

Did you enjoy this episode? Want to learn more about working with me? Why not book in for a commitment free 30-minute connection call here?

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

Nat's wisdom and passion is so beautiful and moving to witness. She truly cares about helping women and Mothers and I'm sure you will hear that in this conversation…

In this episode we speak about:

• what it means for Nat to be a woman and a Mother
• tuning in to our feminine nature
• the power of working on ourselves to heal in our relationships
• the Disney dream vs the real life experience
• matrescence and relationships
• how and why our self-worth can be affected in motherhood
• making the implicit explicit and the difference it can make
• Nat's experience in the near break down of her relationship, and working through the messy middle
• the NUMBER 1 problem that comes up time and time again in relationships
• what the feminist movement did that didn't help us

Themes: Parenting, Marriage, Relationships, Motherhood, Mental Health

At the end, I share a poem written by Danielle Doby.

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a review on the platform that you listen.

Want to learn more about working with me? Why not book in for a commitment free 30-minute connection call here?

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

Please note: I am not attempting to be a parenting coach. I am simply exposing what I feel passionate about and I know a lot of others will and do relate to.

In this episode I share my perspectives and approach to the ridiculous pressures we can feel as parents in this day and age, in the hope that it may bring you some relief (and a giggle or two).

In this episode I speak about:

• the pressure on Mums
• what society expects of parents and children
• my approach to said pressure ;)

Themes: Parenting, Motherhood, Mental Health

At the end, I share a poem written by Karen McMillan.

Did you enjoy this episode? Want to learn more about working with me? Why not book in for a commitment free 30-minute connection call here?

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

In this episode we speak about:

• learning to be comfortable in your body and how HUGE that is
• knowing the anatomy of your genitalia (you might be surprised how few people know)
• letting go of sexual shame
• purity culture and faith deconstruction
• knowing your wants, needs and boundaries (in the bedroom or not)
• subconscious behaviour that can play out in relationships
• Lucy's course on sexual communication
• Lucy's top books on self-pleasure, sex and desire

Themes: Sex, Intimacy, Pleasure, Healing, Relationships

You can find more information on Lucy and all the fabulous things she offers here.

At the end, I share a poem written by Danielle Doby.

Did you enjoy this episode? Want to learn more about working with me? Why not book in for a commitment free 30-minute connection call here?

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

In this episode I speak about:

• getting help from a naturopathic nutritionist
• receiving unsolicited advice
• how I needed to adjust my diet
• what my body was saying in it's suffering
• allergies to ingredients in skin products
• getting help from the wrong person
• how we're potentially conditioned to feel like we 'should' look flawless
• the deep upset that my skin problems caused me

Themes: Nutrition, Gut Health, Naturopathy, Mental Health

I mention Ebony Jane Nutrition. I also mention Shea Butter Cottage.

At the end, I share a poem written by me.

Did you enjoy this episode? Want to learn more about working with me? Why not book in for a commitment free 30-minute connection call here?

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

Please note: This can be an emotional topic. There is no pressure or judgement whatsoever to be or feel any different from where you are now.

In this episode I speak about:

• the wisdom our body holds and conveys
• 'listening' hands and loving touch
• the significance of our feet
• breath work and yoga as powerful tools to tune inwards
• when our organs show warning signs
• we're "not a sum of broken parts"*
• decent posture and moving wisely

Themes: Mental Health, Physical Health, Yoga, Breath

*I mention Glennon Doyle.

At the end, I share a poem written by Selina Denton.

Did you enjoy this episode? Want to learn more about working with me? Why not book in for a commitment free 30-minute connection call here?

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my weekly newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

In this episode, Fi and I speak about:

• anxiety in early motherhood 
• how 'Becoming Mums' came about
• the power of community 
• holding space for stories
• being given unsolicited advice
• the sanctuary of non-judgemental groups

Themes: Motherhood, Mental Health, Postnatal Support

To find out more about Becoming Mums, see here.

We mention Pregnant Then Screwed.

At the end I read something by Caitlin Moran.

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

There are soooo many benefits to moving gently but WISELY. Knowing how to train well — in ways that don’t lead to burnout or cause you to dread the whole thing — can be a game changer.

I warmly welcome you to a way of moving that may suit your mind and body a f**k load better 😋.

In this episode I speak about:

• how ‘fitness’ doesn’t need to be hard
• changing our wording to be less punishing
• the negative effects of intense training when stressed and/or tired
• things to watch out for in your postnatal body
• how I train differently since becoming a Mum
• finding enjoyment and PLEASURE in how you choose to move
• working with the breath in yoga and exercise

Themes: Fitness, Mental Health, Physical Health, Postnatal Exercise

At the end, I share a poem written by Safire Rose.

Did you enjoy this episode? Want to make progress with your health? Why not book in for a commitment free 30-minute connection call here?

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

In this episode I speak about:

• what music do you love? And why?
• how music can stir us deeply
• the power of songs from 'kids' films
• ignoring people who try to cuss your choices
• the electric experience live music can be
• lyrics and language
• Susan Cain's work on 'bittersweetness' and allowing ourselves to feel

Themes: Music, Emotions, Healing, Mental Health, Physical Health

At the end, I share a poem written by Cleo Wade.

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my weekly newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

I connected with Zoe after hearing about her classes — which I cannot WAIT to participate in. After exchanging a few lovely audio messages, I knew I wanted to invite her onto the podcast.

In this episode we speak about:

• Zoe's background, what led her to create 'The Cheek Of It' and her passion for working with and holding space for women
• challenging disempowering beliefs through burlesque and performance as a rite of passage
• the practice of taking up space, enjoying our body and the ripple effect of that on other women
• Zoe's experience of birth trauma, finding help and healing her relationship with her body
• motherhood, rejecting the claim "You can have it all" and witnessing the magic of our children as they are

Themes: Dance, Burlesque, Drama, Motherhood, Birth Trauma, Mental Health, Physical Health

To find out more about Zoe and her fabulous offerings, see here on 'The Cheek Of It!' website.

At the end (34 minutes in), I share a poem written by today's guest, Zoe Charles.

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my weekly newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

In my work with women, I have noticed that MCA is not known about nearly as much as I think it should be. (Boys and men will benefit from knowing about it too.)

In this episode I speak about:

• the work of Lisa Lister
• how I now work (and rest) in harmony with my cycle
• avoiding giving from a place of resentment with MCA
• gently informing and educating my daughter
• cyclical wisdom for when you’re no longer bleeding
• discomfort during ovulation
• advocating for ourselves to find out more
• PMT = premenstrual truth — it's not 'just' being hormonal
• a brilliant podcast to listen to (see below)

Themes: The Menstrual Cycle, Periods, Mental Health, Physical Health

I mention Lisa Lister and her book ‘Love Your Lady Landscape’ as well as 'Wild Power' by Alexandra Pope and Sjanie Hugo Wurlitzer (this is the book I forget the name of).

'28ish Days Later' is the podcast with India Rakusen that I reference.

At the end, I share a poem written by me.

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my weekly newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

Here I share my passion for this precious tool for calm and connection, that has helped hundreds of parents I've taught, in the hope that it may help you in similar ways.

In this episode I speak about:

• doing baby massage after birth trauma
• how I started teaching baby massage
• body awareness from a young age
• the value in slowing down in a busy world
• positive hormones that are released
• using massage for a deeper connection
• the ripple effect on the family
• how loving touch is nourishing for babies — and us
• using massage with my daughter, years after her being a baby

Themes: Baby Massage, Mental Health, Physical Health, Birth Recovery

At the end, I share a poem by Phyllis K. Davis.

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my weekly newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

How you choose to eat e.g. omnivore, vegan or simply intuitively — regardless of the label it may have — is up to you, and you only. Yet, in today’s society we can be advised/told how to eat left, right and centre.

In this episode I share my personal experience, what I have done in the past and what works for me now. 

I speak about:

• growing up vegan
• fuelling your body for optimal health
• toxic/cult-like diet culture
• the pressures/opinions you can get from others
• when and why I became an omnivore
• being ostracised (and Brené Brown’s wisdom)
• strict diet ideals and stigmas
• allowing ourselves to thrive
• the words we use around food and eating

Themes: Food, Diets, Naturopathy, Nutrition, Boundaries

At the end, I share a poem written by Nikita Gill.

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my weekly newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

We are not taught to slow down, pause and rest. Messages from society say “do more”, “keep on”, “don’t give up”. But sooner or later our body can and will slam on the brakes.

In this episode I speak about:

• my diagnosis
• why I got burnout, despite being good at self-care
• how my Doctor really listened
• giving myself permission to stop
• the mental load that we carry
• what can you let go of?
• taking rest seriously
• the art of receiving
• practicing healthy boundaries
• asking for help 
• allowing ourselves to thrive

Themes: Burnout, Mental Health, Physical Health, Boundaries

At the end, I share a poem written by Danielle Doby.

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my weekly newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

It is incredibly common for Mums to forget their needs and desires. To a greater or lesser degree, we can *lose ourselves in Motherhood. (*In the long run we can find ourselves too! More on that in another episode.)

Therefore, I wish to gently invite you to think about you more.

In this episode I speak about:

• giving yourself permission to receive
• time spent on you is not selfish
• the significance of being alone when used to giving all the time
• tuning into yourself, your truth, and what makes you YOU
• the sanctuary that 10-minutes can be
• bringing more awareness to your body
• letting go of the guilt and the ‘shoulds’
• finding ways to nourish you

Themes: Boundaries, Mental Health, Physical Health, Birth Recovery

At the end, I share a poem written by Emma Heaphy.

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my weekly newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

Many of us (young and old) have been told not to cry, or that it’s not ok to show emotions in that way. We are often embarrassed or even ashamed to be seen to cry. However, crying is a natural response to some of the things we will experience as human beings. So, I invite you to ponder your relationship with crying and perhaps let go of the negative label a little.

In this episode I speak about:

• the cultural view on crying, sadness and anger
• how other people’s opinions about crying can influence our own
• being curious about what our body may be telling us
• why it’s unhealthy to suppress certain emotions for long periods
• crying at an ecstatic dance event and why it felt GREAT
• the unhealthy pressure on men to suppress emotions
• allowing all feelings to surface, in yoga and otherwise
• the energy it can take to not cry
• who can you comfortably cry with?
• tears of joy and gratitude

I mention the amazing poet, Hollie McNish.

Themes: Emotional Health, Boundaries

At the end, I share a poem written by me.

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my weekly newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

In this episode, I share 3 top things to be aware of and put into practice after having a baby.

I speak about:

• advocating for your needs AND desires (there's a big difference)
• boundaries* and people pleasing tendencies
• knowing your capacity
• the importance of a circle of support
• how true support is different to those who drain your energy

I mention Mark Groves' podcast and Terri Cole.

(*For more about boundaries, please see Episode 1 of the podcast, titled 'Healthy Boundaries; Protecting Your Energy and Why It Matters'.)

Themes: Postnatal Wellbeing, Boundaries, Birth Recovery

At the end, I share a poem written by me.

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my weekly newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

In this episode, I invite you to break free from inhibitions and explore the myriad benefits of dancing. Whether it's to music or in silence, discover the transformative power of movement.

Join me as I share insights into my passion for dance, its positive impact, and why prioritising dance is hugely beneficial for our well-being.

I speak about:

• dancing alone, choosing the music (and the volume of it!)
• the importance of shedding the labels of being "good" or "bad" at dancing
• openness to new dance settings, exploring beyond the familiar 
• the positive emotions that dance brings, lifting mood and aiding in emotional processing
• the healing power of dance as a holistic well-being practice
• dance as a means of self-discovery and a tool for connecting with others 
• celebrating the innate ability of children to move to music, tapping into their natural rhythm
• reflecting on the simplicity and authenticity of children's connection with dance.

Themes: Dance, Exercise, Mental Health, Music

At the end, I share a poem written by me.

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram, and don't forget to sign up for my weekly newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

Mothers returning to exercise — whether it's weeks, months, or years after childbirth — often lack the right support and education that they truly deserve.

We need to recognise that issues like incontinence and chronic back pain are not things to simply endure.

Your body requires a unique approach, along with increased reverence and respect post-pregnancy and birth.

This applies not only to biological mothers but also to those who have adopted; considering factors like sleep deprivation and the physical demands of parenting.

In this episode, I discuss:

• the importance of selecting a specialist or someone experienced in postnatal fitness and motherhood
• how your preferences matter — your feelings are valid!
• why excessive pressure isn't always beneficial
• the right balance between pushing yourself and knowing when to go gently
• the subtle yet significant aspects that contribute to growth and progress
• hints on training methods that won't exhaust you or make exercise feel like a chore.
• recognising the signs of a healthy coaching relationship and understanding the prevalence of gaslighting and judgment
• how the language, manner, and energy of a coach can make a significant difference
• the importance of being challenged in a safe way, both for the body and the nervous system
• taking relaxin into account with postnatal exercises
• and it's okay to say "f**k the 'shoulds' "

Themes: Women's Health, Postnatal Fitness, Maternal Mental Health, Boundaries

At the end, I share a poem by Liezel Graham.

For more insights, you can follow me on Instagram here, and don't forget to sign up for my weekly newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com.

So many women come away from birth deeply affected by what their body now feels and looks like. I gently invite you to get to know your body better, to tune inwards and be an advocate for yourself.

I speak about:

• knowing the parts of our genitalia and why many of us don’t know
• my healing experience at a ‘Paint Your Vulva’ workshop
• Anna Lou Walker’s book ‘The Little Book of Vaginas’
• the clitoris and how it is not one single point
• practicing love and reverence for the body, especially post-birth
• how the body speaks up with instincts and intuition
• the benefits of yoga for tuning in to the body's wisdom and our truth
• that we all deserve to be continent and confident
• self-pleasure and knowing what feels good
• support for pelvic floor issues and upset
• the different signs of our health and not self-silencing
• feeling comfortable ‘down there’ is just as important as anywhere else

Themes: Women’s Health, Sex, Intuition, Self-Advocacy, Self-Care, Birth

I mention Lucy Rowett, Sex and Relationship Coach

At the end, I share a poem by Danielle Doby

Connect with me on Instagram

Sign up for my weekly newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com

Pregnancy, birth, motherhood and matrescence deserve far more respect, reverence, appreciation and compassionate understanding. What a woman and her body goes through is huge, and I aim to convey why that and she matters in this episode.

Themes: Birth Trauma, PTSD, Mental Health, Postnatal Fitness, Postnatal Recovery

*For anyone affected by birth trauma and worried about being triggered, I do not talk about my birth experience in detail. I do share a poem I wrote about my birth experience at the end though (19 minutes in).

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebirthrecoverycoach

Sign up for my weekly newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com

Themes: Boundaries, Health, Parenting, Mental Health

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebirthrecoverycoach

Sign up for my weekly newsletter at www.thebirthrecoverycoach.com

To find out more about Lucy you can visit her website here

Or visit her on Instagram