Matrescence at work | Motherhood and Career Transition

Matrescence at work | Motherhood and Career Transition

By Deborah Graham

Ever heard of the word Matrescence? Nope, most people haven't.

Matrescence at work explores the experience of parents, mostly mothers as they transition into parenthood and try to maintain their career and their sanity. Coincidence a lot of women end up starting a business? Maybe not?

Join me, Deborah Graham, in hearing about what other people are doing, how they make it work and what we all might need to know.
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#43 From Child Protection to Motherhood: Kayla's journey of transformation

Matrescence at work | Motherhood and Career TransitionSep 14, 2026
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48:56
#43 From Child Protection to Motherhood: Kayla's journey of transformation

#43 From Child Protection to Motherhood: Kayla's journey of transformation

Kayla shares her journey from child protection to motherhood, highlighting the emotional and professional shifts, and how her experiences shape her approach to work and life. This episode explores the impact of motherhood on identity, mental health, and career, offering insights for women balancing these roles.


key  topics


  • The impact of motherhood on professional identity
  • Balancing mental health and career post-motherhood
  • Transitioning from child protection to leadership in business
  • The role of supportive workplaces in maternal well-being
  • Lessons learned from personal and professional challenges


Guest links

Instagrram

Instagram

Instagram

Instagram


Matrescence at work



motherhood, career transition, mental health, child protection, leadership, women in business, work-life balance, personal growth

Sep 14, 202648:56
#42 Ankita Callahan: Why motherhood feels like losing yourself before finding your purpose
Sep 07, 202644:24
#41 Taby Taplin on the power of flexibility for working mums
Aug 31, 202642:00
#40 Brooke Marie Bridges: What if we redefined what having it all actually means in motherhood?
Aug 24, 202636:09
#39 Mental Health and Motherhood: Mikaela is breaking the silence

#39 Mental Health and Motherhood: Mikaela is breaking the silence

In this episode, Mikaela shares her raw and honest journey through motherhood, mental health, career shifts, and finding balance. Her story highlights the importance of self-compassion, seeking help, and redefining success as a parent.


key  topics

  • ​Motherhood journey starting at age 15
  • ​Impact of traumatic birth and postpartum struggles
  • ​Balancing shift work and family life
  • ​Mental health awareness and seeking help
  • ​The importance of self-compassion and grace


Resources

Anger can be a symptom of Postpartum Anxiety, Postpartum Depression and more. If you’re concerned about your mental health please seek support from a health profession and connect with professional support.PANDA Aus - call 1300 726�PANDA UK - call 0808 1961 776�Postpartum support international - 1800 944 4773


Aug 17, 202632:60
#38 Supporting women through Matrescence with Ellen McGuigan
Aug 10, 202638:44
#37 Erin Henry: Supporting mothers through the fourth trimester and beyond
Aug 03, 202653:05
#36 How Kate learnt to nurture body image and self-care in motherhood
Jul 27, 202638:16
#35 Amy Clements, Breathe Women's Health Physiotherapy
Jul 20, 202637:56
#34 Resilient Growth with Vanessa Jennings
Jul 13, 202639:13
#33 Navigating Postpartum Challenges with Lara Beaton
Jul 06, 202639:21
#32 Dani Zetzer on finding her own way in family and family law
Jun 29, 202642:18
#31 Redefining mum life: Why Lauren Perrett built BubbaDesk & Wombee
Jun 22, 202639:36
#30 From Classroom to Coaching: Hannah McIntyre’s motherhood journey
Jun 15, 202638:31
#29 Navigating Matrescence: Laura’s journey through motherhood and career
Jun 08, 202628:46
#28 From Burnout to Balance: Stacie shares her Journey to happiness
Jun 02, 202637:05
#27 Motherhood, Rage & Reinvention: Dr Chelsea Todd's Journey

#27 Motherhood, Rage & Reinvention: Dr Chelsea Todd's Journey

In this engaging conversation, Dr Chelsea Todd, Holistic Wellbeing + Matrescence Guide, shares her transformative motherhood journey, the challenges of returning to work, and insights into maternal rage, postpartum depletion, and organisational support for mothers.

key topics

  • Motherhood journey and matrescence
  • Work-life balance and organisational support
  • Maternal rage, postpartum depletion, and mental health

Guest Links

Website drchelseatodd.com

Instagram @drchelseatodd

LinkedIn in/drchelseatodd

From Chelsea

I've created a Rage Ritual Bundle for Cycle Breaking Mothers, a gift from my heart to your community / listeners:

https://offers.drchelseatodd.com/ragerituals840453-8564


Resources

Anger be a symptom of Postpartum Anxiety, Postpartum Depression and more. If you’re concerned about your mental health please seek support from a health profession and connect with professional support.PANDA Aus - call 1300 726�PANDA UK - call 0808 1961 776�Postpartum support international - 1800 944 4773



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Matrescence at work






motherhood, postpartum, maternal rage, work-life balance, maternal health, organizational support, matrescence, postpartum depression, maternal mental health, women in leadership



May 26, 202637:31
#26 Krysti-Glory Gallo, The Day I Died
May 18, 202638:29
#25 Councillor Lucy Collier on Parenthood and Politics
May 11, 202638:02
#24 Lindsey on building community: The power of Mums Beach Club
May 04, 202628:12
#23 Paula is raising a bilingual child whilst building a flexible career
Apr 28, 202638:19
#22 Rebecca Hogan embraces her whole self as a Mother

#22 Rebecca Hogan embraces her whole self as a Mother

In this engaging interview, Deborah Graham speaks with Rebecca Hogan about her journey through motherhood, career transitions, and the importance of self-care and authenticity.

They explore the challenges of balancing work and family, unlearning societal expectations, and embracing a whole self approach to life and coaching. In this engaging interview, Rebecca Hogan shares insights on motherhood, matrescence, and balancing personal growth with parenting.

Discover practical tips for embracing change, managing expectations, and thriving as a mother and individual.


 key  topics

  • Motherhood journey and challenges
  • Career transitions and self-discovery
  • The importance of self-care and self-compassion Understanding matrescence and its impact on women
  • Strategies for balancing motherhood and personal development
  • The importance of self-care and emotional intelligence in motherhood
  • Whole Self Approach
  • Unlearning Patriarchy
  • Whole Self Framework
  • Surviving to Thriving Scale


 guest links

Instagram @rebeccahogan_

Website - https://rebeccahogan.co.uk


Follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@MatrescenceatworkPodcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠on instagram and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Or find me on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ at 

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/matrescenceatwork/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahgraham/ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠




motherhood, self-care, career transition, coaching, work-life balance, authenticity, motherhood journey, personal growth motherhood, matrescence, personal growth, parenting, self-care, motherhood transition, motherhood book, motherhood podcast, women in leadership, work-life balance

Apr 20, 202636:40
#21 Paige on building Mom Boss Freedom
Apr 13, 202634:59
#20 Dr Eva Benmeleh on her professional insights and personal struggles

#20 Dr Eva Benmeleh on her professional insights and personal struggles

In this conversation, Deborah Graham and Dr Eva Benmeleh explore the multifaceted journey of motherhood, discussing the challenges and triumphs that come with balancing family and career. They delve into the complexities of maternal mental health, the impact of perfectionism, and the importance of community support. Eva shares her personal experiences with postpartum depression and the evolution of her identity as a mother, emphasising the need for self-compassion and understanding in the parenting journey. The concept of matrescence is introduced as a framework for understanding the transformative experience of becoming a mother.

In this conversation, Dr Eva Benmeleh discusses the importance of self-reflection through journaling, the complexities of maternal mental health, and the role of AI in providing support. She emphasises the impact of social media on mothers and shares insights about her practice, which focuses on helping individuals navigate their emotional challenges and reclaim their power in motherhood.

Takeaways

  • Two feelings can coexist in motherhood.
  • Motherhood often leads to a loss of self-identity.
  • Perfectionism can hinder the joy of parenting.
  • Postpartum challenges are common and need to be addressed.
  • Community support is crucial for mothers.
  • Self-compassion is essential in the parenting journey.
  • The relationship with one's own mother influences parenting styles.
  • Matrescence is a critical concept in understanding motherhood.
  • Mothers often feel societal pressure to be perfect.
  • Finding balance between work and family is a continuous struggle. Journaling creates a space for self-reflection and emotional processing.
  • Maternal mental health issues are prevalent and often misunderstood.
  • AI can provide support but should be approached with caution.
  • Social media can have both positive and negative impacts on mental health.
  • It's important for mothers to seek help and support when needed.
  • Self-reflection can help mothers understand their feelings and experiences.
  • The pressure to be a perfect mother can lead to feelings of inadequacy.
  • Eva's practice focuses on empowering individuals to reclaim their lives.
  • Understanding one's emotional patterns is key to personal growth.
  • Trusting oneself is crucial in navigating motherhood.


You can find Dr Eva on her website www.drevabenmeleh.com

On Instagram @dr.evebenmeleh or @the.matrescence.journals


Follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@MatrescenceatworkPodcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠on instagram and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Or find me on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ at 

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/matrescenceatwork/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahgraham/ ⁠⁠⁠⁠

Apr 06, 202632:57
#19 Deborah and the unexpected shift

#19 Deborah and the unexpected shift

In this conversation, Deborah Graham and Deborah, the founder of DearMe, discuss the challenges and transformations that come with motherhood, particularly focusing on the concept of matrescence. They explore the transition from career-oriented life to motherhood, the struggles of postpartum experiences, and the importance of self-care. The discussion also touches on the impact of COVID-19 on work flexibility and the evolving landscape of entrepreneurship for mothers. In this conversation, Deborah discusses the evolving nature of work, emphasising the importance of flexibility and autonomy in the workplace. She shares her personal journey from redundancy to finding a fulfilling job that allows her to contribute meaningfully. Deborah also introduces her app, DearMe, designed to support mothers during the postpartum period by providing a safe space for journaling and emotional processing. The conversation touches on the challenges of motherhood, particularly regarding sleep and societal expectations, and highlights the need for better support systems for women in the workforce. In this conversation, Deborah Graham discusses the complexities of motherhood, including body image, postpartum expectations, and the importance of mental health. She reflects on her personal journey and the challenges faced by new mothers, emphasizing the need for supportive resources and community. The discussion also touches on monetizing passion projects and the desire to empower women through shared experiences. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the significance of acknowledging both the struggles and joys of motherhood.


Takeaways

  • You have to be adaptable in motherhood.
  • Matrescence is a significant transition similar to adolescence.
  • Postpartum challenges can be overwhelming but are common.
  • Finding purpose in entrepreneurship can help during motherhood.
  • Self-care is crucial for mothers to maintain mental health.
  • COVID-19 has changed the work landscape for mothers.
  • Women often feel guilt about taking breaks from their children.
  • The journey of motherhood can lead to unexpected personal growth.
  • Networking and skills developed over the years can empower women entrepreneurs.
  • Work-life balance is essential for well-being and productivity. Good work can be done virtually.
  • Flexibility is more than just where you log in.
  • Navigating career transitions can lead to fulfilling opportunities.
  • Networking is crucial in finding the right job.
  • The idea for DearMe came from personal experiences.
  • Building an app requires confidence and backing yourself.
  • Employers should support women during maternity leave.
  • DearMe aims to provide a safe space for mothers.
  • Sleep challenges are common in motherhood.
  • It's important to accept the realities of parenting. Motherhood brings significant changes to body image and self-perception.
  • It's common for mothers to mourn their pre-baby bodies.
  • Expectations around postpartum recovery can be misleading.
  • Creating supportive resources for new mothers is essential.
  • Reflections on motherhood can lead to personal growth and healing.
  • Monetizing passion projects can be challenging but necessary for sustainability.
  • Empowering women through shared experiences fosters community.
  • Maternal mental health is often overlooked but crucial for well-being.
  • It's important to acknowledge that it's okay to not be okay.
  • Future plans should include building a supportive community for mothers.

Learn about DearMe app, a maternal wellbeing app built for Mums.

Website www.dearme.digital

Instagram @dearmeapp.official

Get a pre launch subscription of $39 ⁠https://dearme.digital/early-supporter⁠

Or reach out to Deborah directly deborah@dearme.digital


Follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@MatrescenceatworkPodcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠on instagram and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Or find me on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ at 

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/matrescenceatwork/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahgraham/ ⁠⁠⁠⁠

Mar 31, 202636:32
#18 Kirsty from healing herself to healing others
Mar 24, 202634:60
#17 A conversation with Jacinta Matthews
Mar 17, 202628:45
Introducing Matrescence at work

Introducing Matrescence at work

Join Deborah Graham as she explores the experience of other women as they transition to Mother, what it's like rejoining the workforce once you're a parent and what we all want to know.

Mar 12, 202602:46
#16 Emma on Motherhood and personal growth
Mar 10, 202632:56
#15 Kimberly: BAS, Bookkeeping and Baby
Mar 02, 202634:42
#14 Kelly's spark
Feb 23, 202636:34
#13 Dr Sabiha Deol: Motherhood as a medical professional
Feb 16, 202631:44
#12 Bec's mission to improve Women's Health
Feb 09, 202638:08
#11 Antoinette: When your plan B turns into a plan C

#11 Antoinette: When your plan B turns into a plan C

Antionette Mullins is a self-employed Financial Planner and Mother of 2 who thought she had it all worked out.

After coming to terms with not having a second baby, Antoinette thought she had moved on. And as the story goes, this is when she became pregnant.

Antoinette shares her story on the feelings and challenges she faced at this time.

We also discuss the importance of Financial Planning.


You can find Antoinette at www.stepsfinancial.com.au


If topics on this episode resonate, here are a few places you can go for support.

1800RESPECT is the national domestic, family and sexual violence counselling, information and support service. 

Gidget Foundation Australia sees people who either; are trying to have a family, are pregnant, have a baby up to the age of one, have experienced a pregnancy or baby- related loss, or have experienced a traumatic birth.


Follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@MatrescenceatworkPodcast ⁠on instagram and ⁠Facebook⁠

Or find me on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ at 

⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/matrescenceatwork/⁠

⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahgraham/ ⁠




Feb 02, 202635:54
#10 "Motherhood is a leadership development program" Alexa Starks
Jan 26, 202633:17
#9 Lauren Beeten: When a DIY solution turns into your career
Jan 19, 202634:40
#8 Aubrielle Brennan: from FBI to MOM & more...
Jan 12, 202630:45
2025 That's a wrap!
Dec 31, 202509:03
#7 Two working parents, four kids: How Clare achieved balance
Dec 15, 202533:30
#6 Solo and strong: Dani's parenting story

#6 Solo and strong: Dani's parenting story

Dec 09, 202534:09
#5 Jess pivots with an expanding family

#5 Jess pivots with an expanding family

In this conversation, Jess shares her journey through motherhood, the challenges of balancing family and business, and the personal growth she experienced along the way. She discusses the surprise of her third pregnancy, the financial considerations of raising children, and the emotional shifts that come with becoming a parent. Jess also reflects on her experiences with maternity leave, redundancy, and her plans to reopen her salon, emphasising the importance of community support and the need to prioritise family over societal expectations.


We talk about;

Jess' initial surprise and panic upon discovering her third pregnancy.

The decision on family size, the considerations and personal preferences.

Motherhood helping Jess become more assertive in her business and personal life.

Jess emphasises the importance of prioritizing family time over work obligations.

Jess discusses the challenges of transitioning from business owner to employee.

The emotional and practical challenges of maternity leave are highlighted.

Jess plans to reopen her salon while balancing family responsibilities.

Community support plays a crucial role in Jess' parenting journey.

Jess advises new parents to block out external opinions and focus on what works for their family.


Follow Matrescence at work Podcast on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Or find me on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠


If you're on the Central Coast and need a spray tan, follow Glow Bar Collective!

Dec 01, 202528:35
#4 Erin opens up about staying true to herself in motherhood
Nov 24, 202532:38
#3 Liz speaks on weathering the storm of Motherhood
Nov 17, 202522:29
#2 Lena goes from boardroom to baby: Motherhood at 40
Nov 10, 202538:01
#1 Karen, a mother of two, discovered a better work-life balance thanks to COVID

#1 Karen, a mother of two, discovered a better work-life balance thanks to COVID

In this conversation, Deborah Graham and Karen discuss the concept of matrescence, the transition to motherhood, and the various challenges and joys that come with it. They explore the impact of motherhood on personal identity, friendships, and work-life balance. Karen shares her experiences as an older mother, the evolution of her parenting style, and the importance of support systems. The discussion highlights the need for reflection and the lessons learned throughout the parenting journey, emphasising that every mother's experience is unique yet interconnected.


Takeaways

  • Matrescence describes the transition to motherhood, encompassing physical, emotional, and social changes.
  • Motherhood can bring unexpected joys and deeper connections with friends and family.
  • The experience of motherhood varies greatly among individuals, highlighting the importance of shared stories.
  • Friendships can evolve during motherhood, often requiring new connections with other mothers.
  • Being an older mother can present unique challenges and perspectives.
  • Discipline and parenting styles often change after having children, leading to new insights.
  • Work-life balance is crucial, and supportive work environments can significantly impact well-being.
  • Maternity leave policies can influence a mother's return to work and her mental health.
  • Support systems, including family and friends, play a vital role in parenting.
  • Reflecting on parenting experiences can provide valuable lessons for new mothers.

And yes, there is a baby in the background... it's all part of it!!


Follow Matrescence at work Podcast on Instagram and Facebook

Or find me on LinkedIn


Keywords


matrescence, motherhood, parenting, work-life balance, family dynamics, friendships, support systems, personal growth, maternity leave, challenges of motherhood






Nov 03, 202523:60