Episode 18 | Deborah

In this episode, Deborah shares her journey into motherhood and reflects on the challenges she experienced during the postpartum period with both of her daughters.

She talks about experiencing the baby blues and postpartum anxiety, the pressure she placed on herself as a new mum, and the importance of seeking support when things felt overwhelming. We also discuss the transition back into paid work after maternity leave, the guilt and self-doubt so many mothers experience, and how becoming a parent can fundamentally change our priorities, values and sense of identity.

Deborah shares how struggling to fit motherhood into a traditional workplace eventually led her to realise she hadn't failed - the system had failed to support her. That experience inspired her to create the Matrescence at Work podcast, a space dedicated to sharing honest conversations about motherhood, careers and the realities of returning to work.

This is a thoughtful conversation about postpartum mental health, matrescence, career transitions, flexibility, and giving ourselves permission to redefine success after becoming a mother.

You can find Deborah and the Matrescence at Work podcast on Instagram at @matrescenceatworkpodcast.