Episode 5 | Laura

In this episode, Laura shares her experience of early motherhood with openness and reflection.

She talks about a fast and intense labour, and the awe she felt in her body’s ability to bring her son into the world. From there, she reflects on the early postpartum days — a gentle start supported by time in birth care, followed by a deeply supported period at home surrounded by family and community.

Laura shares how important that support was, from a beautifully organised meal train to having her mother-in-law and sister-in-law live with her during the postpartum period. She speaks honestly about the challenges that came with this too — navigating cultural differences, communication barriers, and the intensity of caring for a newborn while sleep deprived.

This conversation also explores the transition back to paid work, the emotional complexity of balancing motherhood with other parts of identity, and the grief that can come with not having the time or space to fully settle into this season.

Throughout, Laura reflects on the beauty of motherhood — the moments of connection, the slower pace of life, and the joy of simply being with her baby — alongside the very real challenges that sit alongside it.