In this episode of The Naptime Sessions, I’m joined by the insightful and compassionate Paula Hatfield – former head of one of London’s top illustration companies, now a holistic well-being practitioner, mum, and advocate for embracing change at every stage of life.

Paula’s story is one of transformation. After 16 years leading a successful creative business, she hit burnout while also navigating the emotional strain of her mum’s health crisis. That turning point led her to discover the healing power of therapies like hypnotherapy and coaching - tools that now form the heart of her work supporting others through stress, change, and midlife shifts.

In our conversation, Paula shares openly about her own evolution, what motherhood has taught her about resilience and forgiveness, and the challenges and joys of parenting a neurodiverse child. We also talk about the growing awareness around neurodiversity, and how connection – whether in a corporate setting, a retreat, or at home – is at the core of living well.

Here’s what we cover:

• Paula’s journey from running a leading London illustration company to holistic well-being practitioner
• The wake-up call of burnout and her mum’s health crisis
• Why self-discovery and compassion are central to her work
• The resilience and forgiveness motherhood demands
• Parenting a neurodiverse child – the challenges, the rewards, and the evolving support landscape
• How midlife can be a powerful time of transformation and new beginnings
• The role of therapies and coaching in managing stress and creating balance
• The importance of connection – in business, retreats, and family life
• Why it’s okay to “wing it” in parenting (because there’s no handbook!)
• How forgiveness underpins both parenting and personal growth

Paula’s story is a reminder that life doesn’t come with a straight path - but with self-forgiveness, compassion, and the courage to change direction, we can create something even more meaningful.

Resources

Want to connect with Paula or learn more about her work?

Visit her website

Follow her on Instagram

Want more support and honest conversations about motherhood? Follow me on Instagram or explore my blog for practical tips, stories, and encouragement.

Enjoyed This Episode?

If Paula’s story spoke to you, share this episode with a friend navigating change, burnout, or parenting challenges. And if you haven’t already, hit subscribe, rate the show, or leave a review – it helps other mums find us and reminds us that we’re all learning as we go.