
Why Motherhood Feels So Much Harder Than We Expected (You're Not Doing It Wrong)
From Motherkind by Zoe Blaskey
July 9, 2026 · 42 min
About this episode
This episode explores the concept of matrescence and how it impacts motherhood, emphasizing that the challenges faced are not the fault of mothers but a result of modern expectations.
Why does becoming a mother change us so deeply? And why does nobody really prepare us for it? So many mothers believe they're doing something wrong because motherhood feels harder than they expected. But what if the problem isn't you? In this powerful conversation, writer and bestselling author Lucy Jones explains the life-changing concept of matrescence – the physical, emotional, psychological and identity transition of becoming a mother. It's a word that has helped thousands of women finally understand why motherhood can feel so overwhelming, and why it's never "just" about having a baby. Lucy and Zoe explore why modern motherhood can feel so isolating, why we place impossible expectations on mothers, and how understanding matrescence can replace guilt and shame with self-compassion. If you've ever found yourself thinking "Why don't I feel like myself anymore?" or "Why is this so much harder than I thought it would be?" this episode will help you realise you're not failing. You're going through one of the biggest transitions of your life. 💡 In this episode, you’ll learn: What matrescence is and why every mother should know about it Why motherhood changes your identity so…
People in this episode
Host: Zoe Blaskey
Guest: Lucy Jones
Topics covered
- matrescence
- motherhood
- identity transition
- self-compassion
- guilt and shame
- modern motherhood
Keywords
- motherhood
- matrescence
- identity
- self-compassion
- guilt
- shame
- transition
Mentioned in this episode
Books & works: Motherkind
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