Navigating Matrescence and Identity Shifts in Motherhood with Jessie Harrold

In this episode, Tara chats with author, coach, and doula Jessie Harrold about the deep, often overlooked transition into motherhood, matrescence. Far beyond just the physical experience of having a baby, matrescence is a major life transformation that unfolds over two to three years, reshaping a mother’s body, mind, and identity. Together, they explore the emotional layers of motherhood: the feeling of "losing yourself," the natural grief that can come with identity shifts, and why it’s so important to give space for those feelings. Jessie shares insights from her book Mother Shift, as well as thoughts on the fourth trimester, the push-pull of career changes, and the evolving cultural conversations around what it means to be a mom today. This episode is a powerful reminder that motherhood isn’t just a role. It’s a metamorphosis. Tune in and give yourself the permission to grieve, grow, and embrace the beautiful mess of modern motherhood. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this episode with a fellow mama who might need to hear it! Links: https://www.jessieharrold.com/ https://www.jessieharrold.com/mothershiftbook/ https://www.jessieharrold.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.