Today's episode is in response to two listener letters on issues that affect so many of us, mothering and friendship. I have guest Lisa Mabberley on the show today to share her expertise as a self-belief coach who works with people impacted by issues surrounding motherhood.

Thank you to Angela and Jen for trusting us with their stories.

So what’s this episode really about? 

• Lisa shares the concept of Matrescence - the ongoing process of changing and transforming as a human being into a mother. 
• Angela, the first writer, went through the greatest part of matrescence during lockdown when everyone was in a bubble. For many new mothers, it hasn’t felt how we thought it was going to feel and we talk about how Jen might support herself to rebuild friendships that support her in this stage of her life. 
• Jen’s letter encompasses feeling some relief at deciding to not have children and how this is impacting her friendships. We talk about the fixed narratives surrounding what a legitimate mother has to look like and how Jen has allowed herself to experience freedom and joy through being open and fluid in all aspects of her life. 

Why you should listen
This episode is perfect for you if you’re experiencing or have ever experienced friendships changing as a result of becoming a mother or deciding not to have children. We’ll discuss the false narratives surrounding these issues and how people can become boxed in and develop unrealistic expectations of others and ourselves that impact friendship.

Links:
Coach with Lisa at Self-belief Coach Match
Lisa's Website
Lisa on Instagram

Resources mentioned:
Ted Talk: Alexandra Sacks; reproductive psychiatrist

You can quote me on that…
“When you have gone through an enormous change during that time of global change, that need for getting back to normal is even stronger.” - Lisa Mabberley

“When you find that it doesn’t match your expectation, you can feel quite ‘other’.” - Lisa Mabberley

“Our biggest fear is that we’ll lose the relationship by addressing the conflict but I have found the opposite to be true.” - Sas Petherick

“All friendships of any length are based on a continued, mutual forgiveness.” - David Whyte

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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit saspetherick.substack.com