Postpartum to Professional: Matrescence, Mom Brain, and Identity

Motherhood changes everything - your brain, your identity, and the way you move through the world. In this episode of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, Vanessa welcomes Jeanne Clevenger, licensed clinical psychologist and mom of four, to talk about the overlooked transition called matrescence.From the fog of “mom brain” to the pressures of postpartum depression and anxiety, Jeanne shares her personal story of raising four kids (including twins) while navigating identity shifts and professional changes. Together, we unpack the science behind postpartum brain changes, the truth about motherhood’s mental load, and the importance of reclaiming time for yourself without guilt.This honest and practical conversation is a reminder that motherhood isn’t about doing it all perfectly… it’s about awareness, intention, and giving yourself permission to grow alongside your children.EPISODE DESCRIPTIONJeanne’s journey through postpartum depression, anxiety, and raising four kidsThe science behind matrescence and why “mom brain” feels so realThe differences between therapy and coaching for momsCreating intentional family values that anchor your homeHow to find time for yourself without guiltTUNE IN TO LEARNWhat matrescence really means and why every mom experiences itHow postpartum brain changes impact memory, identity, and connectionPractical strategies to reduce the mental load of motherhoodThe role of therapy vs. coaching and when each is most helpfulSimple ways to bring more intention and calm into your daily lifeRESOURCES MENTIONEDPostpartum to Professional Coaching Program: postpartumtoprofessional.comFree Guide for Moms Returning to Work:  https://www.postpartumtoprofessional.com/free-guide-podcast-listeners Amiga Moms™ Private Coaching with Vanessa: amigamoms.com/coachingTAKEAWAY MESSAGEMotherhood is messy, beautiful, and ever-changing… and that’s normal. By naming the identity shifts of matrescence, giving ourselves grace, and staying intentional about our values, we not only care for our kids but also for ourselves. Listen in, and remember… you’re always free to be mindful.Send us Fan MailSupport the showGRAB AN OFFER🎁 Free Resource: 120 Coping Skills: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-120copingskills💛 Coaching for the Mom CEO: https://www.amigamoms.com💡 Coaching for Child Therapists: https://www.thekidclinician.com/💚 Coaching & Community for Latinx Therapists: https://www.latinxpracticecollective.com/ABOUT MEI'm Vanessa, the therapist who helps high-achieving adults become the best version of themselves, not just at work, but in the rooms that matter most. I host the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, named the #1 Latino Mental Health Podcast in 2026 by Feedspot. I believe the people who give everything to everyone else deserve to stop surviving and start living intentionally.CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIAL🎧 Podcast: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counselorvdejesus/📋 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/counselorvdejesus/🎤 Speaking & Workshops: https://www.freetobemindful.com/speakingDISCLAIMERFree to Be Mindful Podcast episodes are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional help from a licensed...