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EPISODE · Apr 20, 2026 · 40 MIN

The Impossible Standard of Motherhood No One Talks About

from That Mom · host That Mom

Motherhood today comes with invisible rules—and impossible standards.In this episode, Dr. Lynn O’Brien Hallstein breaks down the cultural systems shaping how we define a “good” mom… and why so many women feel like they’re failing.What We Cover:Why motherhood feels so high-pressure (and where that pressure actually comes from)How media + culture define the “good” vs. “bad” momThe hidden expectation that moms must do everything and look good doing itWhy this isn’t an individual problem—it’s systemicHow to start thinking differently about your role as a motherAbout the Guest:Dr. Lynn O’Brien Hallstein is a professor of rhetoric and the author of Bikini-Ready Moms, along with other works exploring motherhood, identity, and cultural expectations placed on women. Her research focuses on how societal narratives shape women’s lived experiences.Links + Resources:Find Dr. Lynn O'Brien Hallstein: Boston UniversityFollow me: InstagramJoin the email list: EMAILLearn More: That Mom WebsiteIf this episode resonated, send it to a mom who needs to hear it—and follow the show so you don’t miss what’s coming next.

Motherhood today comes with invisible rules—and impossible standards.In this episode, Dr. Lynn O’Brien Hallstein breaks down the cultural systems shaping how we define a “good” mom… and why so many women feel like they’re failing.What We Cover:Why motherhood feels so high-pressure (and where that pressure actually comes from)How media + culture define the “good” vs. “bad” momThe hidden expectation that moms must do everything and look good doing itWhy this isn’t an individual problem—it’s systemicHow to start thinking differently about your role as a motherAbout the Guest:Dr. Lynn O’Brien Hallstein is a professor of rhetoric and the author of Bikini-Ready Moms, along with other works exploring motherhood, identity, and cultural expectations placed on women. Her research focuses on how societal narratives shape women’s lived experiences.Links + Resources:Find Dr. Lynn O'Brien Hallstein: Boston UniversityFollow me: InstagramJoin the email list: EMAILLearn More: That Mom WebsiteIf this episode resonated, send it to a mom who needs to hear it—and follow the show so you don’t miss what’s coming next.

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The Impossible Standard of Motherhood No One Talks About

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This episode was published on April 20, 2026.

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Motherhood today comes with invisible rules—and impossible standards.In this episode, Dr. Lynn O’Brien Hallstein breaks down the cultural systems shaping how we define a “good” mom… and why so many women feel like they’re failing.What We Cover:Why...

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