43 | The Motherwhelm with Emily | Chronic Illness, Neurodivergence & Letting Go of Expectations

In this episode of The Motherwhelm, I sit down with Emily Souder, a mother of two, perinatal therapist, and co-author of Your NICU Story, to talk about chronic illness, neurodivergence, and embracing a different way of mothering.Emily shares her experience of navigating motherhood while living with chronic illness, Hashimoto's disease, and neurodivergence, reflecting on the ongoing process of surrendering expectations and creating a family life that aligns with her values rather than society's. Together, we explore the freedom that can come from letting go of perfection, embracing acceptance, and trusting that there is no single "right" way to raise a family.We also discuss homeschooling, caring for yourself while caring for others, and how Emily's personal experiences continue to shape both her motherhood and her work supporting families as a perinatal therapist. Her perspective is a gentle reminder that motherhood isn't about fitting into someone else's mould—it's about finding the courage to honour what your family truly needs.If you're navigating chronic illness, Hashimoto's disease, neurodivergence, or you're learning to release unrealistic expectations of yourself as a mother, I hope Emily's story encourages you to trust your own path.Podcasts mentionedMom and Mind with Dr KatBooks mentionedBody Full of Stars: Female Rage and My Passage into Motherhood by Molly Caro MayBirth Story Brave, Reimagined by Emily SouderBirth Story Held for Loss by Emily SouderYour NICU Story: Reflecting on Your Family's Experience by Emily Souder and Mahaley PatelTopics discussed: chronic illness, Hashimoto's disease, neurodivergence, ADHD, homeschooling, motherhood identity, surrender, acceptance, perinatal therapist, rejecting societal expectations, Your NICU Story, motherhood.