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| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Why Motherhood Is The Best Way To Find Yourself | 14 Feb 2025 | 00:17:05 | |
Sz 1 Ep 1 | Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley, talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books.
Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| Why Your 'Self-Care' Makes You Feel WORSE | 7 Better Options for Moms | 01 Mar 2025 | 00:38:49 | |
Sz 1 Ep 3 | What is true self-care? What does it mean to a mother? On this episode of Down The Well, Elle explores the meaning of true self-care and not simply the distractions or indulgences that the world offers. Take a listen to the suggestions she gives mothers to help them live their best life.
Links:
Yoga Nidra Videos
The Fourth Trimester: A Postpartum Guide to Healing Your Body, Balancing Your Emotions, and Restoring Your Vitality
Down The Well Links:
Check out Down The Well on YouTube
This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/miYICSde6Q4
Elle's Substack - substack.com/@ellerowley
Elle's Instagram - instagram.com/ellerowley
-----
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley, talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books.
Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| Motherhood Will Break You - And That’s a Good Thing | Dr. Lisa Marchiano | 27 Feb 2025 | 00:54:19 | |
Sz 1 Ep 2 | Our first guest on Down The Well is Lisa Marchiano, a psychotherapist, Jungian analyst, and author. Lisa's work is the inspiration for this podcast as she discusses the mother's hero's journey, how it is connected to falling down a well and becoming a new person. Take a listen to this inspiring interview.
Timestamps:
01:17 - Lisa's background
03:03 - Falling down the well
08:15 - What is the hero's journey for a mother
14:40 - Difference between sacrifice and martyrdom
19:44 - The idea of the eternal girl
27:27 - Navigating old wounds with our children
45:54 - Understanding rage
Notes:
Lisa Marchiano
Motherhood: Facing and Finding Yourself
This Jungian Life podcast
YouTube: @Down-The-Well
https://substack.com/@ellerowley
https://www.instagram.com/ellerowley/
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Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley, talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books.
Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| We Paid Our Kids To Go Sugar-Free For A Year | The Results | 12 Mar 2025 | 00:32:59 | |
Sz 1 Ep 4 | The addiction to sugar is real. It affects how we think and feel. So, Elle and her family took on the challenge of one year without sugar. Listen to how they did it, the challenges, the benefits and more.
Links:
Down The Well Links:
Check out Down The Well on YouTube
This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/miYICSde6Q4
Elle's Substack - substack.com/@ellerowley
Elle's Instagram - instagram.com/ellerowley
-----
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley, talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books.
Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| The REAL Reason 47% of Women Don’t Want Children | 26 Mar 2025 | 00:27:23 | |
Sz 1 Ep 5 | We are so afraid of aging - just think about all the anti-aging products, procedures, and plans. This cultural obsession with youthfulness is taking over the female journey of maiden to mother to matriarch. Elle discusses the importance of this journey and how each female archetype enlightens, inspires and helps us evolve as women. Take a listen...
Timestamps:
03:28 - The Maiden
06:58 - The Mother
16:33 - The Matriarch
Links:
Down The Well Links:
Check out Down The Well on YouTube
This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/miYICSde6Q4
Elle's Substack - substack.com/@ellerowley
Elle's Instagram - instagram.com/ellerowley
-----
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley, talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books.
Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| How To Stop Overreacting As A Mom (And What To Do Instead) | 10 May 2025 | 00:28:43 | |
Sz 1 Ep 8 | On the path of the mother's hero's journey, we are often confronted with challenges. As we strive to navigate these obstacles with open-heartedness, curiosity, and humility, sometimes we fall short and allow our emotions to take control. A certified life coach, Elle teaches proven and practical techniques for on-the-spot emotional regulation that will help any mom become the person she wants to be. Take a listen...
Timestamps:
00:21 - Understanding the Mother's Hero's Journey
01:26 - Challenges and Emotions in Motherhood
06:13 - Tools for Self-Coaching: The 1-2-3 Approach
16:02 - Thought Model - CTFAR
27:53 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Down The Well Links:
Episode 2 with Lisa Marchiano here & on YouTube
Check out Down The Well on YouTube
This episode on YouTube found here
Elle's Substack - https://substack.com/@ellerowley
Elle's Instagram - instagram.com/ellerowley
-----
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley, talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books.
Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| Has Science Proved That Homeschooling Is Better? | Liz Black | 23 Apr 2025 | 00:53:46 | |
Sz 1 Ep 7 | Education is an essential part of parenting. Yet, the decision of how to best educate your children when you're down the proverbial well may feel overwhelming from the number of options, the best fit for each child, or frustration with your current situation. Elle speaks with Liz Black, an education specialist and consultant, about the benefits of homebased schooling. Take a listen...
Timestamps:
03:15 - why homeschool is gaining popularity
09:40 - homeschool vs. homebased education
14:06 - what and how to teach
15:43 - will my child get into college with a homeschool education
16:55 - will my child fall behind
18:32 - phases of learning
24:12 - enough socialization
26:40 - extra curricular activities
28:15 - where to start homeschooling
28:58 - can I work and homeschool
30:31 - can families without financial resources homeschool
33:43 - what if I mess this homeschool thing up
39:29 - markers of success
47:17 - what if you're feeling homeschool is not hitting the mark
Down The Well Links:
Alcott Learning
Check out Down The Well on YouTube
This episode on YouTube found here
Elle's Substack - substack.com/@ellerowley
Elle's Instagram - instagram.com/ellerowley
-----
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley, talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books.
Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| 5 Life-Changing Matriarch Secrets from Grandma Moses | 09 Apr 2025 | 00:40:43 | |
Sz 1 Ep 6 | In our pursuit of a meaningful life, perhaps the answers we seek are found in the past. In this episode of Down The Well, Elle talks about the 5 life-changing lessons from the well known American matriarch, Grandma Moses. Find out how this humble woman led a life of pure inspiration. Take a listen...
Timestamps:
08:42 - Lesson #1
15:57 - Lesson #2
22:46 - Lesson #3
29:29 - Lesson #4
34:05 - Lesson #5
Down The Well Links:
Check out Down The Well on YouTube
This episode on YouTube found here
Elle's Substack - substack.com/@ellerowley
Elle's Instagram - instagram.com/ellerowley
-----
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley, talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books.
Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| Stoic Motherhood: 6 Ancient Lessons Every Modern Mom Needs | 21 May 2025 | 00:12:42 | |
Sz 1 Ep 9 | Motherhood can feel like a storm—loud, chaotic, and completely overwhelming. But what if the key to peace isn’t fixing the storm... but learning how to stand still within it?
In this episode of Down the Well, Elle dives into six timeless Stoic principles that can transform the way you approach parenting. These lessons offer clarity, peace, and strength for the mother. Take a listen...
Timestamps:
01:22 - What is Stoicism
01:59 - Principle #1
04:40 - Principle #2
05:32 - Principle #3
06:15 - Principle #4
07:54 - Mantras
08:30 - Principle #5
10:40 - Principle #6
Down The Well Links:
Check out Down The Well on YouTube
This episode on YouTube found here
Elle's Substack - https://substack.com/@ellerowley
Elle's Instagram - instagram.com/ellerowley
-----
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley, talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books.
Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| Perimenopause, Purpose & Letting Go of the Maiden | Chelsea Etheridge | 04 Jun 2025 | 00:39:38 | |
Sz 1 Ep 10 | What happens when your body changes… and the world doesn’t talk about it? In this honest episode, Elle speaks with Chelsea Etheridge, founder of Not Young, a supplement company geared towards women in perimenopause.
Chelsea shares how navigating perimenopause became the unexpected spark for personal transformation and the creation of her platform, Not Young. She opens up about aging, identity, and why the “maiden-obsessed” culture is due for a rewrite. Take a listen...
Timestamps:
01:46 - Chelsea's story
09:05 - Story of Not Young
10:25 - Signs of perimenopause
16:16 - View on aging
19:03 - Plot twist!
20:18 - Husband's health
26:44 - Mothering today
35:20 - Future of Not Young
Show Links:
Not Young
Discount Code: SR69JVRINV
Not Young. Better. podcast
Not Young Instagram
Down The Well Links:
Check out Down The Well on YouTube
This episode on YouTube found here
Elle's Substack - https://substack.com/@ellerowley
Elle's Instagram - instagram.com/ellerowley
-----
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley, talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books.
Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| Want a More Peaceful World? Start with Family Dinner | 18 Jun 2025 | 00:26:45 | |
Sz 1 Ep 11 | In a world that feels increasingly fractured, overwhelmed, and chaotic—what if peace begins not with politicians, but with parents?
In this powerful episode, Elle explores how world peace starts at home. She draws a straight line between how we engage with our children and how we shape the future of our society. This is not about perfection—it’s about presence, intention, and radical gentleness.
🔔 Subscribe for more soul-grounded conversations from the edge of motherhood, identity, and becoming.
💬 Comment below: What does peace look like in your home?
Timestamps:
04:38 - 3 Keys to Peace at Home
04:45 - Teaching peace
09:45 - Safeguarding our homes
18:56 - Cultivating inner peace
24:29 - World Peace Begins at Home t-shirts
Show Links:
World Peace Begins At Home t-shirts
The Humble Village
Down The Well Links:
Check out Down The Well on YouTube
This episode on YouTube found here
Elle's Substack - https://substack.com/@ellerowley
Elle's Instagram - instagram.com/ellerowley
-----
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley, talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books.
Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| The 7 Stages of The Mother’s Hero’s Journey | 27 Aug 2025 | 00:33:53 | |
Sz 2 Ep 1 | What if motherhood isn't just about raising children, but a profound journey of self-discovery and transformation?
Elle is back with another season and starts us out with this soul-stirring episode, she dives deep into the concept of the "mother's hero's journey," inspired by Lisa Marchiano's groundbreaking work. She unravels the seven stages of this journey, from the initial call to adventure to the triumphant return—each step a potential for growth, challenge, and rebirth.
The 7 Stages Elle discusses:
1. Departure from ordinary world
2. The call to adventure
3. The descent
4. Meeting the shadow
5. Receiving help and inner wisdom
6. Integration and transformation
7. Return and Contribution
This episode goes beyond theory. Elle shares deeply personal stories from her own journey through motherhood—the disorientation, the growth, the unexpected beauty. From sleepless nights that unravel the ego to moments of reckoning with fear and identity, her reflections offer something every mother will recognize.
If you've ever wondered whether the everyday trials of motherhood hold deeper meaning, this conversation is for you. What if the hero’s journey isn’t out there—but right here, in your own kitchen, carpool, and quiet breakdowns?
Subscribe for more spirit-awakening explorations of motherhood, identity, and personal growth.
Comment below: What stage of the mother's hero's journey resonates most with you right now?
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction to the mother's hero's journey
06:00 - Breaking down the seven stages
12:00 - Ego death and motherhood
18:00 - Shadow work and integration
24:00 - Finding wisdom in unexpected places
30:00 - The alchemy of transformation
36:00 - Returning with gifts: How mothers change the world
42:00 - Elle's personal childbirth story
Show Links:
"Motherhood: Finding and Facing Yourself" by Lisa Marchiano - https://lisamarchiano.com/books/
Joseph Campbell's Hero's Journey - https://www.amazon.com/Heros-Journey-Joseph-Campbell-Collected/dp/1608681890/ref=asc_df_1608681890?m...
Down The Well Links:
Elle's Substack - https://substack.com/@ellerowley
Elle's Instagram - instagram.com/ellerowle
_____
Listen to Down The Well:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lUJfguVjtso0sPEg2wR6t?si=votEkMgqRiq8b_aEKht1gg
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/down-the-well/id1797861644
Amazon: https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqa0p4aFo3SlBSNWNpUzhiNkt
_____
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books. Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| Why Moms Miss Their Own Joy—and How to Get It Back | 28 Oct 2025 | 00:21:26 | |
Sz 2 Ep 8 | Elle invites us to pause... to breathe... to stay for the exhale.
As the leaves turn and the holidays begin, she explores a deceptively simple yet profound concept: truly experiencing the moments we create. It's not about doing more—it's about being more present in what we're already doing.
Elle shares her journey from frantic holiday-maker to intentional memory-creator, offering a mini masterclass in emotional presence. She challenges us: Are we confusing participation with presence? Are we unconsciously fleeing from joy?
From yoga mats to dinner tables, Elle provides practical wisdom for savoring life's exhales. It's time to linger, to ask one more question, to offer our full gaze.
This isn't just about slowing down—it's about showing up fully for the life we're living.
🍂 Ready to transform your fall from frantic to fulfilling? Listen now.
Timestamps:
00:00 - Fall reflections and the nurturer's season
04:06 - The "stay for the exhale" revelation
09:44 - Embracing the matriarch's wisdom
12:17 - The surprising challenge of tolerating joy
17:22 - Practical ways to linger in life's moments
Down The Well Links:
• YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCN6YKPAhI1Rstsc4dT2N86w
• Elle's Substack: https://substack.com/@ellerowley
• Elle's Instagram: instagram.com/ellerowley
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books. Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| Replenish Your Well: Waking Up to The Need for Authentic Friendships in Motherhood | Andrea Faulkner Williams | 21 Oct 2025 | 01:00:05 | |
Sz 2 Ep 8 | Elle sits down with her longtime friend and fellow entrepreneur, Andrea Faulkner Williams, to share real and heartfelt reflections on nurturing friendship through the busyness of motherhood.
Ever felt like you're drowning in the demands of life? You're not alone.
Elle and Andrea share raw, honest truths about:
• The tender challenges that shape motherhood
• Keeping friendships strong when life feels busy
• Championing each other's dreams
• Turning comparison into inspiration
Take a moment to laugh and cry along with Elle and Andrea as they show you the positive difference friendship can make in motherhood.
🔔 Subscribe for more soul-nourishing conversations that remind you: You're not alone in this beautiful mess of motherhood and life.
💬 Comment below: In what was is friendship a lifeline for you?
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro: First in-person podcast with Andrea
5:40 Motherhood: The most challenging job ever
11:16 Friendship challenges in adulthood and mothering
19:56 Non-comparative support in friendships
25:43 Handling emotional mismatch in friendships
31:25 How to be a good friend
37:05 Creating a joy list for happiness
42:38 Championing each other's callings and dreams
49:26 Rapid-fire questions about their friendship
55:54 Dealing with insecurities and teen gossip
59:19 Closing thoughts and appreciation
Show Links:Andrea's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreafaulknerwilliams/?hl=en
Tubby Todd: https://tubbytodd.com/?brand_general&tw_source=google&tw_adid=764490404375&tw_campaign=22807709662&t...
Solly Baby: https://sollybaby.com/collections/wraps?wickedsource=google&wickedid=CjwKCAjwu9fHBhAWEiwAzGRC_7SVVjW...
"Present over Perfect" by Shauna Niequist
"What in the World?" by Leanne Morgan
Down The Well Links:
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCN6Y...
Elle's Substack: https://substack.com/@ellerowley
Elle's Instagram: instagram.com/ellerowley
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley explores the mother's hero's journey—a path different from what you've read in books. It's a descent into the soul, where transformation is inevitable. Let's ensure it's for the better.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| Impossible Standards in Motherhood: Letting Go of the Good Mother Myth | Lisa Marchiano | 14 Oct 2025 | 00:58:53 | |
Sz 2 Ep 6 | We have the pleasure of hearing from Lisa Marchiano for the second time on the Down The Well Podcast, a Jungian analyst and author of "Motherhood: Facing and Finding Yourself." Lisa and Elle peel back the layers of the "Good Mother" myth and dive deep into the transformative power of shadow work in motherhood.
Are you ready to confront the shadow side of mothering? To embrace the parts of yourself you've been told to hide?
Lisa reveals how the "good mother myth" sets impossible standards, leaving us feeling inadequate and disconnected from our true selves. But here's the kicker—what if those "negative" aspects we try to suppress are actually the key to our growth?Elle and Lisa explore:
• The liberating truth about the "Good Mother" myth [1:27]
• Why your anger might be your greatest teacher [19:44]
• The golden nuggets hidden in your shadow [41:52]
• How to parent from wholeness, not perfection [30:51]
Prepare to be challenged, inspired, and ultimately freed by this raw and honest exploration of motherhood's deepest truths.
🔔 Subscribe for more soul-stirring conversations that light the path to authentic motherhood.
💬 Comment below: What part of yourself are you ready to reclaim in your mothering journey?
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro: The good mother myth
5:34 How the good mom image affects women
8:28 Disempowering effects of perfect parenting ideals
14:11 Letting go of the good mother myth
21:15 Working with difficult emotions in motherhood
28:43 Understanding and integrating your shadow
37:38 Identifying shadow qualities in yourself
44:33 Practical steps for shadow work
49:22 Reintegrating positive aspects of younger self
54:12 Advice for different stages of motherhood
Show Links:
• "Motherhood: Facing and Finding Yourself" by Lisa Marchiano
• Lisa's website: https://lisamarchiano.com/
Down The Well Links:
• YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCN6YKPAhI1Rstsc4dT2N86w
• Elle's Substack: https://substack.com/@ellerowley
• Elle's Instagram: instagram.com/ellerowley
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books. Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| What Nobody Tells You About the Maiden to Mother Transition | 07 Oct 2025 | 00:26:42 | |
Sz 2 Ep 5 | What if the transition to motherhood isn't just about diapers and sleepless nights... but a profound archetypal shift that reshapes your entire being?
In this soul-stirring episode, Elle dives deep into the often overlooked journey from maiden to mother. She peels back the layers of societal pressure, personal resistance, and the bittersweet beauty of this transformation.
Are you clinging to your "maiden" self even as you navigate motherhood? You're not alone.
This isn't just about having kids—it's about saying yes to a fuller, vaster version of yourself. Ready to step into your power?
🔔 Subscribe for more soul-nourishing conversations on motherhood, identity, and becoming.
💬 Comment below: What's been the hardest part of your maiden-to-mother transition?
Timestamps:
0:00 - Intro
00:40 - Understanding the archetypes
02:43 - Why we resist the mother
09:20 - Three lies holding us back
16:27 - The gifts of motherhood
20:32 - Missed your maiden years?
23:35 - Integrating maiden and mother
Show Links:
Oura Ring: https://ouraring.com/product/rings
Down The Well Links:
Elle's Substack - https://substack.com/@ellerowley
Elle's Instagram - instagram.com/ellerowley
Listen to Down The Well:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lUJfguVjtso0sPEg2wR6t?si=votEkMgqRiq8b_aEKht1gg
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/down-the-well/id1797861644
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Down-The-Well
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books. Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
SEO Keywords:
transformational motherhood, maiden archetype, mother archetype, matriarch archetype, women's developmental phases, releasing maidenhood, embracing motherhood, cultural expectations, societal pressures, aging and beauty, body acceptance, self-discovery, personal growth, life transitions, motherhood challenges, work-life balance, self-care for mothers, identity shifts, parenting journey, female empowerment, archetypal psychology, women's spirituality, intergenerational wisdom, life stages, personal transformation
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| Torn to Pieces No More: Finding Wholeness as a Mother | 23 Sep 2025 | 00:25:05 | |
Sz 2 Ep 4 | In this soul-stirring episode, Elle dives deep into the heart of modern motherhood's greatest paradox: How do we find wholeness in a role that seems to demand we shatter ourselves into a million pieces?
Drawing inspiration from Ann Morrow Lindbergh's timeless wisdom, Elle explores the concept of "Zerissinheit"—that torn-to-pieces feeling so many mothers know all too well. But here's the plot twist: What if fragmentation isn't our destiny, but our chrysalis?
Elle challenges the notion that mothers must sacrifice everything on the altar of caregiving. Instead, she offers a radical new vision: motherhood as a catalyst for profound personal growth and self-discovery.
🔔 Ready to revolutionize your approach to motherhood? Hit subscribe and join the wholeness revolution!
💬 Share below: What fills your "source" and makes you feel most alive?
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
03:03 - Unpacking "Zerrissenheit"
08:40 - The audacity of maternal time off
15:49 - Your motherhood HR department
23:00 - Restoration through deep presence
Show Links:
"Gift from the Sea" by Ann Morrow Lindbergh: https://www.amazon.com/Gift-50th-Anniversary-Anne-Morrow-Lindbergh/dp/0679732411
Oura Ring: https://ouraring.com/product/rings
Down The Well Links:
Elle's Substack - https://substack.com/@ellerowley
Elle's Instagram - instagram.com/ellerowley
Listen to Down The Well:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lUJfguVjtso0sPEg2wR6t?si=votEkMgqRiq8b_aEKht1gg
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/down-the-well/id1797861644
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Down-The-Well
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books. Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
SEO Keywords:
motherhood challenges, work-life balance, self-care for mothers, Ann Morrow Lindbergh, Gifts from the Sea, torn-to-pieces-hood, wholeness in motherhood, maternal burnout, solitude for mothers, nurturing source, creative pursuits, maternal identity, family dynamics, personal growth, maternal well-being, time management for mothers, maternal mental health, parenting strategies, maternal restoration, mindful motherhood, maternal boundaries, purposeful giving, maternal self-reflection, maternal resilience, balancing motherhood roles
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| The Art of Emotional Self-Reliance: Redefining Marital Happiness | 16 Sep 2025 | 01:00:55 | |
Sz 2 Ep 3 | Elle dives deep into the often-overlooked middle years of marriage with couples coach Natalie Clay. They explore the hidden treasures and challenges of long-term partnerships, offering a fresh perspective on what it means to truly grow together.
Are you feeling more like roommates than soulmates? Struggling with communication or emotional self-reliance? This episode can be your lifeline.
Natalie shares powerful insights on:
• The importance of emotional self-reliance (without losing connection)
• Transforming conflicts into opportunities for growth
• Embracing vulnerability as the key to deeper intimacy
It's time to rewrite the narrative of the "boring" middle years. Let's discover how this phase can be the most transformative and rewarding chapter of your love story.
🔔 Subscribe for more soul-nourishing conversations about relationships, personal growth, and the journey of becoming.
💬 Comment below: What's been your biggest challenge (or unexpected joy) in the middle years of your relationship?
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro: Middle years of marriage discussion
5:12 Emotional self-reliance in relationships
10:12 Dealing with insecurities in marriage
20:24 Why couples feel like roommates
25:05 Physical intimacy and mismatched desire
36:29 Parenting differences in marriage
42:42 Radical acceptance in relationships
49:41 Navigating different parenting approaches
55:41 The role of mystery in marriage
57:05 Hidden strengths of middle years
1:02:15 Lightning round: Marriage advice
Show Links:
Natalie Clay Coaching
Couples Coaching with Natalie Clay podcast
@Natalieclaycoaching on Instagram
Down The Well Links:
Elle's Substack - https://substack.com/@ellerowley
Elle's Instagram - instagram.com/ellerowle
_____
Listen to Down The Well:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lUJfguVjtso0sPEg2wR6t?si=votEkMgqRiq8b_aEKht1gg
Apple:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/down-the-well/id1797861644
Amazon: https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqa0p4aFo3SlBSNWNpUzhiNkt
_____
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books. Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
SEO Keywords: marriage coaching, emotional self-reliance, middle years of marriage, couples communication, vulnerability in relationships, conflict resolution, parenting differences, intimacy challenges, personal growth in marriage, marriage struggles, emotional connection, self-compassion, relationship dynamics, marriage expectations, long-term commitment, marital conflict, relationship coaching, marriage counseling, emotional intimacy, relationship vulnerability, marriage longevity, relationship autonomy, marriage challenges, relationship growth, marriage satisfaction
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| 5 Lessons From The Kindred Spirit of Lucy Maud Montgomery | Author of Anne of Green Gables | 03 Sep 2025 | 00:29:53 | |
Sz 2 Ep 2 | What if the key to unlocking your creative genius lies in the pages of a century-old novel?
In this episode, Elle Rowley shares another installment in her series of Portrait of a Matriarch. She takes us on a journey through the life of the matriarch, Lucy Maud Montgomery, creator of Anne of Green Gables and unexpected mentor to generations of dreamers.
From Prince Edward Island's red-clay roads to the depths of personal struggle, we explore how Montgomery's resilience and creativity shaped a literary legacy that still resonates today.
Elle shares her 5 favorite lessons she learned from studying Maud’s complex life, and the gems of wisdom she took from her matriarchal years:
Success comes from small and simple things done consistently
Creativity can offer resilience and beauty in the bleakest of circumstances
What other people think of you is none of your business
Nature is a constant source of wonder and healing
The matriarch is the wise woman
Are you ready to find your own "Green Gables" of the soul?
Share with us what lesson resonates with you as a current or future matriarch.
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro: Lucy Maud Montgomery's impact
5:07 Childhood and early life of Montgomery
10:15 Writing career and publishing Anne of Green Gables
15:23 Marriage, motherhood, and personal struggles
20:35 Five lessons from Lucy Maud Montgomery's life
25:44 Creativity as resilience in difficult circumstances
31:25 Overcoming fear of others' opinions
37:33 Nature as inspiration and solace
42:38 Montgomery's message to future generations
47:13 Reflecting on Montgomery's legacy and impact
Show Links:
"Lucy Maud Montgomery: The Gift of Wings" by Mary Henley Rubio: https://www.amazon.com/Lucy-Maud-Montgomery-Gift-Wings/dp/0385667604
Anne of Green Gables (1985) starring Megan Follows
Anne of Green Gables, 1908 edition: https://www.amazon.com/Anne-Green-Gables-Original-Montgomery/dp/B0BTNNMXBV
Down The Well Links:
Elle's Substack - https://substack.com/@ellerowley
Elle's Instagram - instagram.com/ellerowle
_____
Listen to Down The Well:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lUJfguVjtso0sPEg2wR6t?si=votEkMgqRiq8b_aEKht1gg
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/down-the-well/id1797861644
Amazon: https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqa0p4aFo3SlBSNWNpUzhiNkt
_____
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books. Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
SEO Keywords: Lucy Maud Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables, Canadian literature, Prince Edward Island, creative writing, childhood imagination, resilience through creativity, matriarchal lessons, mental health struggles, literary success, consistent writing habits, nature inspiration, character development, female authors, early 20th century literature, overcoming rejection, balancing motherhood and career, societal expectations, personal journals, childhood abandonment, community gossip, self-doubt in writing, nature as solace, literary legacy, historical fiction
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| Why Moms Feel Bad About Feeling Bad (And How to Stop) | 04 Nov 2025 | 00:14:19 | |
Sz 2 Ep 9 | What if the hardest part of motherhood isn't the emotion itself—but what we do to ourselves after we feel it?
In this solo episode, Elle unpacks one of the most invisible sources of suffering in motherhood: the pattern of feeling bad about feeling bad. She reveals how we take a natural human emotion—frustration, sadness, overwhelm—and then bury ourselves under layers of guilt, shame, and judgment.
This isn't about toxic positivity or pretending hard emotions don't exist. It's about learning to recognize when we're digging ourselves deeper into the well... and how to stop.
Elle shares personal stories from her early motherhood, a powerful moment teaching emotional skills to young girls, and a real coaching example that shows how one woman's "mess in every area" was actually just one emotion hiding under a mountain of self-judgment.
You'll walk away with a simple three-step practice to drop the unnecessary suffering and befriend the emotions that actually hold the key to your growth.
Timestamps:
01:34 - Feeling bad about feeling bad
04:37 - Primary vs. secondary emotions
06:39 - Something is wrong with me
07:40 - The three-step practice
10:43 - Case study: Coaching a friend
12:45 - Befriending your emotions
Down The Well Links:
Elle's Substack - https://substack.com/@ellerowley
Elle's Instagram - instagram.com/ellerowley
-----
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley, talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books.
Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| Becoming the Matriarch: Finding Your Joy in a New Era with Bev Aron | 18 Nov 2025 | 00:58:01 | |
Szn 2 Ep 11 | What if the next era of womanhood is actually the most powerful, joyful, and creative of all?
In this heartfelt conversation, host Elle Rowley sits down with master coach Bev Aron to reimagine what it means to become the matriarch—not a martyr, but a woman rooted in wisdom, joy, and unwavering self-trust. Together, they explore how motherhood can be a journey of deep healing, not just for ourselves, but across generations.
Bev Aron shares how her work as a coach was born out of her own transformation through motherhood, and why awareness—being a gentle observer of our own emotions—is the key to unlocking lasting change. From moving through overwhelm as a mom, to finally letting go of guilt and old patterns, Bev offers tangible practices to connect with your body, process emotions, and rediscover your light.
This isn’t about having it all together. It’s about uncovering the joy and boldness that’s been inside you all along, no matter what age or stage you’re in. You’ll hear real talk about breaking cycles of self-judgment, tending to your own joy, outgrowing the need for outside validation, and embracing the creative possibilities that midlife brings.
Timestamps:
00:02:25 – Motherhood sparked Bev’s self-discovery journey
00:06:26 – “Awareness is the portal to transformation”
00:09:39 – Generational healing begins with nurturing ourselves
00:11:04 – Layered healing brings natural joy, lightness
00:16:07 – "No thought police" means total mental freedom
00:17:16 – Bev embraces role as family matriarch
00:26:01 – Transition from active parenting to flexible support
00:43:08 – "Too late" is the most common limiting belief
No matter what chapter of life you're in, this episode is a loving invitation to become the matriarch of your own life—full of possibility, light, and self-compassion.
Show Links:
Bev Aron's Deep Dive Coach Institute: http://bevaron.com/
Bev's daughter's blog on parenting books: https://myparentingpearls.wordpress.com/?fbclid=PAdGRleAMttQZleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABpy7SZqFRmz5p7pwVgXGvUlemZ1rAnr87MK_uYYx_-YfkgnuR4P_2FhmwMpE8_aem_MVa-0829NZpurW6eVtJj8Q
Down The Well Links:
Elle's Substack - https://substack.com/@ellerowley
Elle's Instagram - instagram.com/ellerowley
Support families in Guatemala by purchasing a 'World Peace Begins at Home' tee - https://www.the-humble-village.org/shop
—
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books.
Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| What Ancient Greece Teaches Us About Making Home a Refuge | 11 Nov 2025 | 00:35:29 | |
Sz 2 Ep 10 | What if the greatest act of heroism isn't conquering the world—but creating a home worth returning to?
Elle explores the ancient art of homemaking as sacred work. Drawing from Homer's Odyssey, the Hero's Journey, and hospitality traditions spanning Greek xenia to Japanese omotenashi, she reveals how mothers and matriarchs don't just decorate spaces—they shape culture itself.
Elle breaks down six powerful elements of creating refuge: rhythm, presence, peace, cultivation, welcome, and spirit. Through personal stories—from her grandparents' healing weekly routines to a friend's mother finding peace while caring for a non-verbal son—she shows how the work of tending a home ripples outward to repair the world.This isn't about Pinterest perfection. It's about meaning-making in a distracted world.
Timestamps:
00:00 - Home as sacred act
02:33 - The Odyssey and xenia05:35 - Mother vs. Matriarch archetypes
10:41 - Element #1: Rhythm
13:45 - Element #2: Presence
16:19 - Element #3: Peace
20:22 - Element #4: Cultivation
23:25 - Element #5: Welcome
30:32 - Element #6: Spirit
34:09 - Closing thoughts
Show links:
Wall Street Journal / Wealthy Family Mission Statements / https://www.wsj.com/finance/investing/wealthy-family-mission-statements-e08faabd?g[…]SW0O3ESdqHJbt2aaLeE01RCfIa0rUvSg7rl36cN69DHoBl2ARVmr2ySQQ%3D%3D
Systematic Review: Routines and Child Development / https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jftr.12549?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Down The Well Links:
Check out Down The Well on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Down-The-Well
Elle's Substack - https://substack.com/@ellerowley
Elle's Instagram - instagram.com/ellerowley
Support families in Guatemala by purchasing a 'World Peace Begins at Home' tee" https://www.the-humble-village.org/shop
-----
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley, talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books.
Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| What This Year Taught Me: 25 Lessons From 2025 | 30 Dec 2025 | 00:27:13 | |
Sz 2 Ep 15 | What if you could rewrite your story, and finally step into the life you’ve been hoping for?
In this end-of-year solo episode, Elle Rowley brings you her “25 Lessons from 2025”—equal parts practical wisdom and raw honesty. From the highs of parenting teenagers to the everyday struggles with self-judgment and comparison, Elle shares the insights she gained by analyzing her year with the help of ChatGPT (yes, really!) and looking back at how far she’s come.
This isn’t just about resolutions or superficial transformation. It’s about the deeper work of noticing where you’re lying to yourself, wasting time, or letting someone else frame your story. Whether it’s learning to track your sleep, finding the courage for hard conversations, or finally embracing the goodness you’ve worked so hard for, Elle gets real about growth, marriage, motherhood, and the quiet power of optimism.
You'll hear stories on how small shifts—like prioritizing family dinner, laughing more with your kids, or keeping teenagers off social media—make the biggest impact. Plus, Elle reveals how she’s learning to drop her survival mindset and lead with joy, not just fear.
Simple, heartfelt, and game-changing—this episode will push you to take back the script of your life and let the chips fall where they may. Join Elle Rowley as she closes out the year and invites you to step into 2026 with clarity, courage, and hope.
Down The Well Links:
Elle's Substack - https://substack.com/@ellerowley
Elle's Instagram - instagram.com/ellerowley
Support families in Guatemala by purchasing a 'World Peace Begins at Home' tee - https://www.the-humble-village.org/shop
-----
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books.
Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| When You’re Down the Well: Simple Tools That Work With Jody Moore | 16 Dec 2025 | 01:10:35 | |
Sz 2 Ep 14 | What if emotional overwhelm isn't coming from your life circumstances—but from the sentences running through your mind?
In this intimate, practical conversation, Elle Rowley sits down with master coach Jody Moore to explore the roots of emotional suffering for mothers, especially in life's toughest seasons. Together, they bust the myth that overwhelm, anxiety, and guilt are caused by what’s happening outside of us, and instead reveal how our thoughts—and the judgments stacked on top of them—create our hardest moments.
Jody Moore shares how practicing self-compassion, curiosity, and letting go of perfectionism transformed her experience as a mother, coach, and woman. She explains why striving to be a “good mom” can be counterproductive, and why embracing your “world’s okayest mom” moments might be exactly what you and your kids need.
You'll hear real stories from Elle about navigating complicated grief, her early struggles with self-judgment, and how thought awareness opened the door to healing. Jody dives into practical concepts—from emotional adulthood and curiosity in hard conversations, to the power of raising your “minimum baseline” and owning your choice to stay connected, even when you want to quit.
This episode is a compassionate guide to befriending your emotions, shedding unnecessary suffering, and building stronger relationships—starting with the one you have with yourself.
Timestamps
00:00:00 - Emotions driven by self-compassion.
00:03:00 - Podcast helps mothers in grief.
00:07:00 - Overwhelm comes from our thoughts.
00:12:00 - Handling teen anxiety with validation.
00:16:00 - Bad days versus rough seasons.
00:21:00 - Celebrating "okayest mom" mindset.
00:27:00 - Set practical minimum baselines.
00:33:00 - Moments of connection over work.
00:40:00 - Embracing compassion and self-acceptance.
01:07:00 - Aspirations for matriarch phase.
Episode Links:
Jody's Website - https://jodymoore.com/
Down The Well Links:
Elle's Substack - https://substack.com/@ellerowley
Elle's Instagram - instagram.com/ellerowley
Support families in Guatemala by purchasing a 'World Peace Begins at Home' tee - https://www.the-humble-village.org/shop
-----
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books.
Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| 5 Unexpected Lessons From 3 Divine Mothers | 09 Dec 2025 | 00:24:11 | |
Sz 2 Ep 13 | What if the true power of motherhood isn’t just surviving the day-to-day—but embracing the descent, the grief, and the transformation that follows?
In this solo episode, Elle Rowley invites you to journey down the well of motherhood’s deepest myths, drawing wisdom from three iconic divine mothers: Mary (the mother of Christ), Demeter (Greek goddess), and Isis (Egyptian goddess). Through story and reflection, Elle reframes the narrative that so often reduces motherhood to mere busyness and duty, showing how our real growth comes when we allow ourselves to descend into uncertainty, pain, and mystery.
This is not an episode about sugarcoating the hard parts of mothering. It’s about recognizing the sacredness of our struggle—the cycles of descent and rising, grief and renewal. Elle highlights five powerful lessons for mothers everywhere:
Lesson 1: The mother brings forth the bridge between worlds
Lesson 2: The mother must descend
Lesson 3: Descent awakens the fierce mother
Lesson 4: Death, loss, and the rhythm of return
Lesson 5: Through suffering, the mother reshapes the world.
Share this episode with a mother who may need it, and join the movement to reclaim an empowering, truthful narrative of motherhood.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 – Descent Is Part Path
00:00:49 – Memorable Thanksgiving Recap
00:02:30 – Purpose: Mothers’ Transformation
00:04:31 – Mary’s Hero’s Journey
00:06:57 – Demeter: Mother’s Grief
00:10:55 – Isis: Restoration After Loss
00:13:47 – Five Lessons from Myths00:22:14 – Embracing Motherhood’s Seasons
Down The Well Links:
Elle's Substack – https://substack.com/@ellerowley
Elle's Instagram – instagram.com/ellerowley
Support families in Guatemala by purchasing a 'World Peace Begins at Home' tee - https://www.the-humble-village.org/shop
About Down The Well: Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books.
Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| Nurturing Outside of the Box: A Life Dedicated to Service | Yvonne Sinclair | 02 Dec 2025 | 00:58:02 | |
Szn 2 Ep 12 | What happens when the life you imagined disappears—and you say yes to what’s next, one small step at a time?
In this deeply moving Portrait of a Matriarch episode, Elle sits down with Yvonne Sinclair, founder of Naru in Guatemala, whose story is part adventure, part quiet revolution.
Yvonne’s life began in London’s marketing world, where stability looked perfect from the outside. But when her family life didn’t unfold as planned, she found herself stepping into the unknown—first through solo travel in Egypt, and then, unexpectedly, in the rural mountains of Guatemala.
What started as a six-month commitment to help coffee workers became over two decades of living amidst cloud forests, serving thousands of malnourished children, and building bridges between worlds. Yvonne and Elle unpack the inner and outer journeys: from crafting an “escape bottom drawer” to discovering true purpose through service, simplicity, and relentless pragmatism. They discuss finding “enough,” releasing self-judgment, and the freedom that comes with aging and letting go.
This episode is about transformation—not by grand design, but by answering one ordinary yes after another. You’ll hear about the joys and heartbreaks of living and working in remote Guatemala, the realities of sustainable change, and the deep meaning that comes from steady, grounded leadership.
Whether you’re in the midst of personal loss, stuck in the waiting, or longing for purpose in unexpected places, Yvonne’s story will both comfort and challenge you.
Timestamps:
00:00:51 – Episode Introduction
00:04:14 – The Turning Point
00:07:23 – Arriving in Guatemala
00:11:21 – Yvonne's Hero’s Journey
00:18:23 – Why Guatemala?
00:21:34 – The Malnourished Children
00:28:50 – Life in Guatemala
00:50:59 – The Wisdom of Enough
Episode Links:
Naru Guatemala's Website: https://naruguatemala.org/
Support families in Guatemala by purchasing a 'World Peace Begins at Home' tee - https://www.the-humble-village.org/shop
Down The Well Links:
Elle's Substack - https://substack.com/@ellerowley
Elle's Instagram - instagram.com/ellerowley
-----
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books.
Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own souls. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| Why Motherhood Feels So Hard (It’s the Story You’re Living In) | 13 Jan 2026 | 00:34:15 | |
Szn 3 Ep 1 | What if the biggest obstacle to joy isn’t your circumstances—but the stories you unknowingly tell yourself?
In this season opener of Down The Well, Elle Rowley unpacks the true meaning of transformation, inviting listeners to bravely reexamine the narratives shaping their motherhood—and their lives. Through vulnerable storytelling and thought-provoking wisdom, Elle shares her own journey from feeling like “the party pooper” mom, always overshadowed by her husband’s fun energy, to intentionally rewriting her identity and rediscovering the magic she brought to the table.
Whether you’re stuck in a cycle of self-doubt, feeling “blah” about mom life, or just hungry for real growth beneath the overwhelm, this premiere marks the start of a transformative six-part series dedicated to helping you reclaim authorship of your own story. You’ll leave with not only inspiration, but actionable questions and gentle encouragement to mother yourself as thoughtfully as you mother your children.
If you’re ready to stop letting old stories run the show and begin a year of true, lasting transformation, this is the episode for you. Down the well we go—together.
Show Links:
Narrative Coaching by David B. Drake - https://www.amazon.com/Narrative-Coaching-Definitive-Bringing-Stories/dp/0996356312
Down The Well Links:
Elle's Substack - https://substack.com/@ellerowley
Elle's Instagram - instagram.com/ellerowley
Schedule a free coaching consult with Elle - elle@levincapital.com
Support families in Guatemala by purchasing a 'World Peace Begins at Home' tee - https://www.the-humble-village.org/shop
-----
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books.
Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| What Cinderella Reveals About Identity | 27 Jan 2026 | 00:23:25 | |
Contact Elle, elle@levincapital.com, to schedule a free coaching consult.
Sz 3 Ep 2 | What if losing yourself in motherhood was only the beginning of your real story?
In this powerful solo episode, Elle Rowley dives into the most common and painful experience shared by mothers everywhere: the feeling of disappearing into motherhood. Drawing wisdom from both her own journey and the collective voices of hundreds of moms, she unpacks the loneliness, exhaustion, and self-loss that so often come with parenting—and challenges the idea that these struggles are the end of your story.
Through the lens of the classic Cinderella fairy tale, Elle reframes the descent into caretaking and invisibility as the first act of a profound transformation. This episode isn’t about escaping your life or returning to who you once were, but about reclaiming identity, integrating selfhood with care, and finding meaning and adventure in every messy, exhausting phase.
You'll hear raw confessions, honest reflections, and practical strategies on how to embrace the “underground” seasons, trust the growth that’s happening beneath the surface, and courageously begin your re-emergence. From self-care rituals to reframing guilt and redefining what it means to be “enough,” this episode is an invitation to trust that you’re becoming someone larger and truer—right in the heart of motherhood.
If you or someone you love is struggling to see the light at the bottom of the well, this chapter promises hope, clarity, and a way forward. Join Elle in rewriting your story—one that honors both the sacrifices and the reawakening that motherhood demands.
-----
Down The Well Links:
Elle's Substack - https://substack.com/@ellerowley
Elle's Instagram - instagram.com/ellerowley
Schedule a free coaching consult with Elle - elle@levincapital.com
Support families in Guatemala by purchasing a 'World Peace Begins at Home' tee - https://www.the-humble-village.org/shop
-----
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books.
Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
-----
Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Exhaustion and isolation in motherhood
00:01:26 - Rewriting common motherhood narratives
00:07:42 - Cinderella as a transformation metaphor
00:11:09 - Rediscovering self-worth and identity
00:14:13 - Embracing phases and growth
00:16:41 - Personal descent and new beginnings
00:19:01 - Integration, not escape, in motherhood
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| Maiden → Mother → Matriarch: The Map No One Gave Us | 07 Apr 2026 | 00:37:16 | |
Want to work with Elle? (Life Coaching) 🔗 https://paperbell.me/elle-rowley#packagestarpk
S3 E7 | Maiden → Mother → Matriarch: The Map No One Gave Us
In this episode, Elle explores a framework that brings clarity to the often confusing experience of becoming a woman: maiden, mother, matriarch.
Drawing from psychology, myth, and scripture, she reframes the disorientation many women feel — especially in motherhood — not as failure, but as initiation into a deeper identity.
From the maiden’s search for meaning, to the mother’s transformation through sacrifice, to the matriarch’s emergence as a source of wisdom and authority, this conversation offers language for a path many women are already walking… but don’t yet have words for.
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| Letters from Down the Well: Finding Yourself After Motherhood (Postpartum, Identity & Overwhelm) | 24 Mar 2026 | 00:28:55 | |
Want to work with Elle? (Life Coaching) 🔗 https://paperbell.me/elle-rowley#packagestarpk
Season 3 Episode 6 | Letters from Down the Well: Finding Yourself After Motherhood (Postpartum, Identity & Overwhelm)
In this episode, Elle introduces Letters from Down the Well — a new series where real questions from women and mothers open the door to honest, transformative conversations.
From postpartum identity and overwhelm to marriage, mom guilt, and breaking generational cycles, Elle offers a grounded reminder:
You’re not failing — you’re becoming.
If you’ve felt lost, stretched, or unsure of who you are in this season of motherhood, this episode will meet you there with clarity, perspective, and encouragement.
~
We would LOVE your thoughts on this episode. Do you want more podcast episodes in this layout? You ask, I answer.
Support families in Guatemala by purchasing a 'World Peace Begins at Home' tee https://www.the-humble-village.org/shop
https://substack.com/@ellerowley
https://www.instagram.com/ellerowley
00:00 - Welcoming Listeners
02:01 - Identity Struggles Postpartum
03:41 - Advice: Humility and Curiosity
05:49 - Starting Solibaby After Birth
07:34 - Open-Heartedness After Loss
10:13 - Mothering Without Your Mother
13:36 - Adjusting Homeschooling Expectations
16:44 - Connection During Toddler Phase
21:00 - Weekly Date Night Advice
27:02 - Meltdowns: Mothering Yourself
~
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books.
Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
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| Reclaiming the Table: Why Gathering Matters | 10 Mar 2026 | 00:59:17 | |
Want to work with Elle? (Life Coaching) 🔗 https://paperbell.me/elle-rowley#packagestarpk
Season 3 Episode 5 | Reclaiming the Table: Why Gathering Matters
In this episode of Down The Well, Elle Rowley sits down with cookbook author and Recipe Club founder Kelsey Nixon for an honest conversation about why gathering around the dinner table matters. Kelsey shares childhood memories, her personal journey through motherhood and loss, and practical tips for reclaiming family dinner—even when life is busy or imperfect.
Together, they bust the myth of “perfect” hosting, discuss the real reason dinner matters, and inspire listeners to embrace simple, meaningful meals as a source of connection and love. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by dinner or hosting, this soulful episode is for you.
P.S. If you haven’t tried meal planning through Recipe Club, stop everything and sign up for two weeks free (code: ELLE) to test it out. You’ll never go back. I still can’t decide if it’s because of the one-click Instacart shopping or the fact that my kids never complain about dinner now as long as it’s a “Kelsey recipe.” It has truly revolutionized dinner time at our house almost three years ago and I promise it will at your house too.
Recipe Club - https://kelseynixon.com/
Kelsey's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kelseynixon/?hl=en
Support families in Guatemala by purchasing a 'World Peace Begins at Home' tee - https://www.the-humble-village.org/shop
https://substack.com/@ellerowley
https://www.instagram.com/ellerowley
~
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books.
Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| Overwhelm, Resentment, and the Return of Inner Authority | 24 Feb 2026 | 00:33:35 | |
Schedule a free coaching consult elle@levincapital.com
Season 3 Episode 4 | Break The Cycle of Overwhelm and Resentment In Motherhood
In this episode of Down The Well, Elle Rowley dives into the root causes of overwhelm and resentment in motherhood, revealing how the stories we tell ourselves can quietly define our experiences. Moving through scenarios of three mothers, Elle explores how old beliefs can keep us trapped.
Have you had any of these thoughts before?
“I am the only capable adult”
"A good mother never has limits"
"I have everything, I don't get to want more"
If so, this episode is for YOU!
With empathy and practical advice, Elle Rowley encourages listeners to rewrite these narratives, embrace healthy boundaries, and reclaim inner authority. This is an empowering guide for anyone ready to shift from martyrdom to self-leadership, and build a more aligned, fulfilling life as a mother.
Support families in Guatemala by purchasing a 'World Peace Begins at Home' tee https://www.the-humble-village.org/shop
https://substack.com/@ellerowley
https://www.instagram.com/ellerowley
00:00 - Overwhelm Isn't Random, It's Story-Driven
01:07 - Phases: Maiden, Mother, Matriarch
03:52 – Overwhelm = Busy Mom Stereotype
04:55 – Overwhelm: Cognitive, Emotional, Existential
07:45 – Sarah: Only Capable Adult
14:51 – Maria: Never Has Limits
20:07 – Availability VS True Presence
28:55 – Architect Your Life, Intentional Choices
~
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books.
Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| Who She Became After the Waiting — 5 Lessons From Leanne Morgan | 10 Feb 2026 | 00:27:55 | |
Schedule a free coaching consult - elle@levincapital.com
Season 3 Episode 3 | Who She Became After the Waiting — 5 Lessons From Leanne Morgan
In this episode of Down The Well, Elle Rowley takes listeners on a journey through the inspiring life and career of comedian Leanne Morgan, celebrating her as a modern-day matriarch whose humor and wisdom are hard-earned and deeply relatable. Through stories of motherhood, late blooming success, and finding comedy in the chaos of everyday life, Elle Rowley distills five powerful lessons from Leanne Morgan's journey—including the transformative power of humor, the quiet strength of gentleness, and the mythic value found in ordinary lives.
With warm anecdotes, personal reflections, and snippets from Leanne Morgan herself, this episode is both a tribute to a beloved Southern voice and an uplifting reminder that it’s never too late to step into your own light.
Leanne's Book: https://www.leannemorgan.com/book
Support families in Guatemala by purchasing a 'World Peace Begins at Home' tee: https://www.the-humble-village.org/shop
https://substack.com/@ellerowley
https://www.instagram.com/ellerowley
00:00 Introduction to Leanne Morgan
02:59 - Attending Leanne’s Netflix taping
05:03 - Leanne’s “Ordinary” Life Details
07:00 - Matriarchal Lessons: Right on Time
10:18 - Leanne on God’s Timing
12:40 - Humorous Motherhood Moments
18:00 - Mythic Power in Ordinary Lives
26:30 - Closing Lessons & Gratitude
~
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books.
Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
| The 3 Pillars of an Unshakable Mindset (For the Hard Days of Motherhood) | 29 Apr 2026 | 00:28:19 | |
Want to work with Elle? (Life Coaching) 🔗 https://paperbell.me/elle-rowley#packagestarpk
S3 E8 | The 3 Pillars of an Unshakable Mindset (For the Hard Days of Motherhood)
In this episode, Elle shares the 3 pillars of an indomitable mindset — a framework for building resilience, clarity, and purpose in the middle of real life.
Through the lens of Meaning, Belief, and Action, she explores how the way you interpret your life shapes how you experience it — and how intentional mindset shifts can help you navigate motherhood, challenge, and growth with greater strength and alignment.
From defining your “why,” to choosing beliefs that serve you, to taking action even when motivation is low, this episode is a practical and empowering guide for any woman who wants to feel more grounded, capable, and connected to her life.
Support families in Guatemala by purchasing a 'World Peace Begins at Home' tee https://www.the-humble-village.org/shop
https://substack.com/@ellerowley
https://www.instagram.com/ellerowley
~
About Down The Well:
Motherhood should be full of joy and meaning. But it often isn't. Why is that? On Down the Well, Elle Rowley talks through the mother's hero's journey, and why it's different from the one you might have learned in school or books.
Unlike the traditional hero's journey, mothers have to descend into the depths of their own soul. No one comes out of motherhood the same, and with the right perspective and resources, we can make sure that transformation is for the better.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices | |||
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