Don’t Be An Athena: Motherhood, Survival & Women’s Worth with Author, Kayla Branstetter

In this deeply honest and validating conversation, Katey sits down with educator, researcher, TEDx speaker, and author Kayla Branstetter to unpack the realities of modern motherhood, reproductive trauma, postpartum identity, and the invisible emotional labour women are expected to carry.From infertility, miscarriage, colic, breastfeeding guilt, and medical gaslighting, to the pressure of “coping” while completely overwhelmed — this episode explores the parts of motherhood women often feel they have to suffer through silently.Kayla shares her personal story alongside the research behind her work in narrative medicine, challenging the ways women’s pain is dismissed in both healthcare and society. Together, Katey and Kayla discuss postpartum recovery, formula guilt, wellness culture, work-life balance, inadequate maternity leave, and the impossible standards mothers are held to.This episode is raw, compassionate, and incredibly validating for any woman who has ever felt like she was failing while simply trying to survive.They also discuss:Why women are conditioned to tolerate painThe emotional impact of feeling invisible after birthLetting go of guilt around parenting and productivityThe difference between parenting and pretending you’re okayWhy “fed is best” should never be controversialSupporting mothers with more honesty and less judgementKayla’s TEDx talks and upcoming book Don’t Be An AthenaWhether you’re in the thick of motherhood, navigating fertility struggles, or simply trying to hold everything together — this conversation will make you feel seen.Connect with Kayla Branstetter:Instagram, LinkedIn & more via her website. Don’t Be An Athena releasing on July 20, 2026.Follow us at @the_wingpodaus on Instagram and subscribe to @TheWingPodcastAu on Youtube to stay connected to every episode.