In this episode of "Motherhood Unveiled," host Ashley explores the diverse experiences of motherhood with guest Shannon Blacker. Shannon, an HR professional, shares her journey, including her marriage, career, and struggles with fertility and health challenges. Despite not having children, Shannon reflects on her role as a dog mom and supportive aunt, emphasizing the broader spectrum of motherhood. The conversation highlights societal expectations, the importance of acceptance, and the value of maintaining personal identity and friendships. Through Shannon's story, the episode underscores that motherhood encompasses a wide range of experiences, each valid and worthy of recognition.

Meet Shannon

Shannon doesn’t have any human children; she is the mom of a sweet & adorable 1.5 year old Potcake (dog) from St. Lucia. Her name is Kiwi and she is the light of their household. Shannon and her husband are both amazing dog parents and consider themselves lucky to have such well behaved and easy fur babies.  She loves to spend time with friends and family, hike, golf, travel, and she’s recently taken up pickleball! Shannon has spent most of her career in HR in some form or another. She’s been with the same company - a global agribusiness for 17 years now. She loves working with people at all levels of the organization and helping them thrive in their work and career. Recently Shannon graduated from the Graduate Certificate program in Executive Coaching at Royal Roads University.

Timestamps

Understanding Motherhood Beyond the Binary (00:01:17)  

Introducing Shannon Blocker (00:02:26) 

Shannon's Background and Connection to Motherhood (00:03:22)  

Shannon's Relationship with Friends (00:05:31)  

Shannon's Dog Kiwi (00:06:58)  

Shannon's Journey with Motherhood (00:09:19)  

Health Challenges and Fertility (00:10:51)  

Struggles with Pregnancy and Miscarriage (00:12:44)  

Exploring Adoption and Family Dynamics (00:17:19)  

Facing Health Issues and Cancer Diagnosis (00:19:37)  

Reflections on the Journey (00:21:54)  

Double Income No Kids (00:23:02)  

The Mushy Middle (00:23:09)  

Struggles with Fertility (00:24:04)  

Power of Storytelling (00:25:24) 

Health Care Advocacy (00:25:36)  

Societal Expectations (00:27:16)  

Life in Vancouver (00:28:24)  

Feeling Different (00:29:51) 

Biological Clock Pressure (00:31:02)  

Regrets and Guilt (00:31:02)  

The Need for Community (00:37:30)  

Existential FOMO (00:40:26)  

Listening to Each Other (00:41:05)  

Finding Purpose (00:44:08)  

Trusting the Journey (00:45:59)  

Acceptance of Decisions (00:46:35)  

The Nature of Acceptance (00:47:03)  

Myths About Motherhood (00:49:41)  

Friendship and Motherhood (00:52:20)  

Gratitude for Sharing Stories (00:53:53)  

Closing Thoughts (00:54:31)  

Show Notes & Links

1. https://helpaws.com/ - founded by a hugely inspirational Canadian woman Charlene Penney Troubetzkoy
2. Hyperplasia:  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16569-atypical-endometrial-hyperplasia or here is a canadian link:  https://cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-types/uterine/what-is-uterine-cancer/precancerous-conditions
3. Lynch Syndrome: 

Work with Ashley
Connect with Ashley on IG (@ashleybcoach) or LinkedIn
Cover Art: Abigail Murphy Photography