358: Why “Good Mothers” Lose Themselves (And How to Reclaim You) with Vanessa Bennett

What if everything you’ve been told about motherhood was a lie?  In this raw and eye-opening conversation, I sit down with depth psychotherapist and bestselling author Vanessa Bennett to explore what she calls The Motherhood Myth. Together, we unpack the hidden expectations placed on women—how they show up in parenting, intimacy, and identity—and why breaking generational patterns is the bravest thing we can do.This episode isn’t just about motherhood—it’s about the stories we inherit, the pressure to perform, and the radical act of choosing yourself while raising the next generation. If you’ve ever felt like you’re “not enough” or struggled under the weight of cultural expectations, this conversation will be the permission slip you didn’t know you needed.What you'll get out of this episode… The real truth about why so many women feel unfulfilled despite “having it all”Why “good motherhood” is often a trap society sets for womenThe hidden cost of societal expectations on mothers and partnersMotherhood isn’t for every woman — and that’s okayNavigating rage in motherhood: what it’s really trying to tell youThe truth behind the “Martyr Mom” and why we glorify herPractical steps to break generational patterns and reclaim your sense of selfVanessa’s unfiltered advice on redefining success and identity as a modern womanThis Episode is Powered by Health NagTurning 40? Feeling the shifts—in your skin, joints, energy, or gut? Same, friend. That’s why I swear by Health Nag’s Bioactive Collagen Jelly. It’s the only collagen with Types I, II, III & IV for full-body support—and your body actually absorbs it. No powders. No fillers. Just one delicious spoon a day.Backed by science. Founded by women. Made to work.Get 10% off with code BRAVETABLE at ⁠⁠neetabhushan.com/healthnag⁠⁠Sponsored by Zoime Longevity ClinicLongevity isn’t just about adding years—it’s about feeling vibrant, energized, and fully alive in the ones you have. Zoime creates personalized health plans that go way beyond supplements—think gut health, hormones, peptides, movement, mindset, and more—so you can thrive at every age.Get 10% off your consultation with code BRAVETABLE — book yours here: ⁠neetabhushan.com/zoime⁠ Connect with VanessaWEB / https://www.vanessabennett.com IG / https://www.instagram.com/vanessasbennett BOOKS / https://www.vanessabennett.com/books Want more?Mama, your nervous system deserves a pause. The Chai Tonics Ritual Starter Kit was made to help you reset with blends that support focus, calm, and energy—without the coffee crash. Create your sacred moment at https://bit.ly/trychaitonics with code BRAVE for 15% off.🌿 Need focus, recovery, or balance? Take my FREE quiz to find your perfect wellness boost → neetabhushan.com/chaiquizFollow along for more tips, community, and resources to brave a better you!YOUTUBE / @TheBraveTableIG / @neetabhushan IG / @thebravetable TIKTOK / @neeta.bhushanWEB / https://neetabhushan.comIf you loved this episode, check out…Ep. #313: The Power of Devotional Leadership: Redefining Strength, Sisterhood & Receiving with Nisha Moodley (Apple | Spotify | YouTube)Ep. #301: Braving Burnout, Motherhood & Identity: The Unlearning We All Need with Michelle Grosser (Apple | Spotify | YouTube)Ep. #321: The “Good Girl” Lie That’s Keeping You Stuck (And How to Break Free) with Dr. Shefali (Apple | Spotify | YouTube)To receive a free gift, email a screenshot of your 5-star review of The Brave Table to [email protected] 😘Dr. Neeta Bhushan is a 5x award-winning author, emotional health advocate, and host of The Brave Table podcast. CEO of Highest Self Institute and author of That Sucked, Now What, she’s been featured in Forbes, ABC, and more. A former dentist turned global speaker, Neeta’s work blends psychology, ancient wisdom, and resilience from her own life experiences. She's also a mom, wellness lover, and chai enthusiast.