The mistakes I made postpartum (and what I'd never do again)

Ready for a career that fits who you are now? Join my 30-day Career Pivot Challenge, starting 21 October. Together, we’ll uncover your strengths, explore what’s possible and turn your next move into a practical plan. Join the waitlist for first access and 30% off. After 10 years of motherhood, I’m really glad I did some things in those first few weeks, and plenty I’d do completely differently. Nothing can quite prepare you for becoming a mother. Those early weeks can be full of love and joy while also feeling exhausting, overwhelming and completely identity-shifting. I certainly wasn’t prepared for the emotional whiplash of holding all of those feelings at once. In this special episode, created in partnership with Tesco Fred & Flo, I’m looking back at my first experience of new motherhood and sharing what I got right, what I learnt the hard way and what I wish I’d known before having a baby. We talk about setting boundaries with visitors (including my one rule that I still think was genius!), why new mothers need care rather than being expected to host, and the huge identity shift of matrescence that I knew absolutely nothing about when I had my first daughter. I also share how the mental load began creeping into my relationship almost without us noticing, and the practical change my husband, Guy, and I made to create a more equal division of parenting and household responsibilities. Plus, I share the newborn essentials I genuinely found useful, what I spent time and money on that I probably wouldn't again, and some very practical tips for making those sleep-deprived early weeks a little easier. Because when you're adjusting to life with a new baby, recovering from birth and trying to work out who you are now, the last thing you need is more pressure. 💡 In this episode, you’ll learn: What I wish I’d known about new motherhood and matrescence How to set boundaries with visitors after having a baby How to stop the mental load becoming yours by default The newborn essentials I actually used, and what I wouldn't bother with Why asking for and accepting help matters so much postpartum Watch every full episode on YouTube and subscribe. This episode is created in partnership with Tesco Fred & Flo, whose newly refreshed range of everyday baby essentials is designed to make those early days a little easier. You can discover the range in Tesco stores and online, and Tesco Clubcard members can currently get 4 for 3 across the range. Exclusions apply. Clubcard event ends 7th September 2026. Clubcard or app required. Delivery charges may apply. Connect with Zoe: Follow Zoe on Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok Get Zoe’s Sunday Times bestselling book, 'Motherkind: A New Way to Thrive in a World of Endless Expectations’