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Explore every episode of the podcast The Mama Circle

Dive into the complete episode list for The Mama Circle. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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1–50 of 76

TitlePub. DateDuration
44. Going back to work after baby? You're more qualified than ever! Here's why.16 Sep 202500:43:39

Going back to work after kids can feel terrifying. Will your brain still work? Can you juggle the home stuff as well as job deadlines?

In this episode, I’m here to remind you that not only can you do it - you’re already highly qualified.

Motherhood is like running a business. You’ve been project managing, negotiating, crisis handling, and leading every single day. These are not “soft skills.” They’re powerful, transferable, and exactly what employers are looking for.

Here’s what I cover in this episode:

- The key skills you’ve developed as a mum (and how they match workplace needs)

- How to frame your experience for CVs, interviews, and appraisals
- My best tips for balancing the juggle of work and home life without losing yourself in the process

If you’re nervous about returning to work or need a confidence boost to see your value clearly, this episode is for you.

🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.
If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠


👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠


Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:
Instagram: ⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠

Email: ⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠

📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode


43. I have an easy baby… so why do I feel guilty?09 Sep 202500:16:25

Have you ever felt guilty because motherhood is easier than you thought it would be? Maybe your baby sleeps well, rarely gets sick, and you’re actually enjoying this season but instead of celebrating, you feel bad about it.

In this episode, Nat unpacks a Reddit post from a mum who admitted she was finding things surprisingly smooth, and the guilt and isolation that came with it.

We'll hear:

- why mums often expect only the hard parts of motherhood

- how comparison and guilt creep in when things feel “too easy”

- why every phase brings its own mix of challenges and ease

- the importance of celebrating the good moments without shame

- how to find safe spaces to share your real experience


🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠

👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠

Email: ⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠

📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

34. It took us four years to feel OK again after becoming parents08 Jul 202501:07:36

What if your relationship doesn’t ‘bounce back’ after the baby? What if it actually takes years?

In this Mums Talk episode, I sit down with my friend Sophie Jane Hardy - writer, coach and host of the Menstruality Podcast, to talk about the unspoken parts of motherhood and how long it can take to feel like you again.

We talk about:

  • Sophie’s four-year journey to rebuild her relationship after becoming parents
  • The grief and rage underneath infertility, birth that didn’t go to plan and letting go of the version of motherhood you’d imagined
  • The invisible mental load and the surrender that nobody prepares you for
  • The moment Sophie realised she had to stop trying to control everything and trust her partner’s way of parenting too
  • Why nervous system care is the real work, and how we find our way back to ourselves (and each other)


If you’ve ever thought, “Why does this feel so hard?” this one is for you.

Want to connect with Sophie?

 

🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠

👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠

Email: ⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠

📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

33. Your kid wears one - why don't you?01 Jul 202500:05:50

In this voice note from a very sunny (and sweaty!) Berlin, I’m sharing something that’s been on my mind during our time here. As I’ve been walking and cycling around with Jackson, I’ve noticed something that honestly made me pause. Every child I see on a bike is wearing a helmet (which is great!), but hardly any of the parents are.

It reminded me of a short video I saw from a paediatric doctor who made a really simple point: if you’re riding a bike, you need protecting too. Especially when your child is relying on you.

This episode isn’t about guilt, it’s just a loving nudge. I know how easy it is to put our own safety last when we’re focused on our kids. But the truth is, they don’t just need to be protected. They need us. Healthy, safe, and here.

🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠

👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠

Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

32. The Woman Who Made Placenta Pills and Smoothies Mainstream25 Jun 202500:56:14

Ever wondered what actually happens to your placenta after birth or why some mums choose to eat it?

In today’s episode of The Mama Circle, I’m joined by my longtime friend, Lynnea Arnold (formerly Lynnea Shrief) - doula, baby massage therapist, and founder of Europe’s first placenta encapsulation network, IPEN. She’s also a mum of four, a creator of change, and someone who has quietly shaped birth support for thousands of women.

Together, we dive into:

  • What doulas really do (and why they can change your whole birth experience)

  • The truth about placenta encapsulation: how it works, why people do it, and what you need to know

  • Baby massage as a tool for bonding, emotional regulation, and deep connection

  • Building a legacy while raising a family and why you don’t need to be loud to make an impact

Mentioned in this episode:

👋🏽 Connect with Lynnea: https://www.everwelltherapies.co.uk/ 
🤓 Learn more about placenta encapsulation: https://www.placentanetwork.com/ 
🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠

👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠

Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

31. Should We Be Having Kids Sooner in Relationships?17 Jun 202500:09:53

In today’s voice note (recorded on my walk to work), I’m diving into something that’s been on my mind: what if our modern relationship timeline is setting us up for failure when it comes to parenting?

We’ve all heard of or experienced the heartbreak of feeling disconnected from your partner after having children. But what if the problem isn’t just them changing... but us expecting things to stay the same?

In this episode, I explore:

  • The relationship escalator and why it might not serve parents

  • Why parenting is such a profound identity shift

  • Whether having children earlier in a relationship could actually help

  • The gap between expectations and reality in parenting roles

  • Why knowing someone pre-kids might not prepare you for the real deal

I’m not claiming to have all the answers here – just sharing a curious thought and inviting you to reflect with me. I’d love to hear your take!

🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠

👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠

Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

30. Terrified of Vomit as a Mum?! Living with (and healing from) Emetophobia10 Jun 202500:43:08

Okayyy - it's time I talk about Emetophobia, the thing I've carried around with me for the last 37 years!

This week I'm sharing my journey with fear of vomiting and how it’s shaped my life. From a traumatic experience at four years old to how I avoided certain foods, places, and even situations that most people take for granted. But that changed this year. Because becoming a mum made me realise: I needed to get a grip on this phobia for myself, and for my son.

I walk you through:

  • What emetophobia actually is and how it shows up in day-to-day life

  • My personal origin story (and why it’s not actually the root cause)

  • The behavioural patterns that kept the fear alive

  • Why motherhood made me face it head-on

  • The Thrive Programme that finally helped me feel better

  • The progress I’ve made and what I hope for you too

Whether you’ve experienced this fear yourself or know someone who has, I hope this episode reminds you: you’re not alone, and it can get better.

If you or a loved one has Emetophobia too, here are the resourced mentioned:

🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠

👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠

Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

29. Want another baby? Work on your fertility - Mum's Talk with Amanda Baumann03 Jun 202500:52:31

In this Mums Talk episode, I’m joined by Amanda Baumann — a fertility awareness educator, yoga teacher, and mum — to share her honest and inspiring journey through conception, matrescence, and starting over in a new country.

Amanda talks about how hormonal contraception led to anxiety and burnout in her twenties, and how discovering cycle awareness helped her reconnect with her body and conceive her daughter with calm and confidence. Now living in the South of France with her young family, she reflects on identity shifts, expat life with a toddler, and what it really takes to juggle motherhood and self-care.

We explore:

  • The emotional whiplash of going from avoiding pregnancy to trying for a baby

  • Why so many of us grow up fearing our bodies — and how to shift that

  • Moving from London to rural France with a toddler (and no village)

  • Letting go of control and trusting your instincts as a parent

  • What changed when Amanda became a mum — in her body, mind, and career

    Bullet journaling, yoga nidra, and other self-care tools that actually fit mum life

  • 🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    • 28. Too Busy to Breathe? How to Find Micro-Moments for Yourself in Your Day27 May 202500:06:20

    If you're constantly rushing, from nappy changes to school runs to work emails, and wondering when you’ll ever get a moment to just breathe, this episode is for you.

    In today’s quick voice note, I share a gentle reminder from the sunny banks of the Danube: that sometimes, rest is closer than we think. You don’t need a spa day to feel human again. You just need 30 seconds of intention.

    Tune in to hear:

    • Why waiting for “enough time” can keep you stuck in burnout

    • Simple, everyday places you can build in a pause (yep, even on the loo!)

    • How slowing down just a little can reconnect you to yourself

    • A reminder that you're allowed to rest — even for one minute

    💛 Share this episode with a mum who needs a breather today. And don’t forget to rate or follow if you haven’t already - it helps this show reach more mums who need it.


    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    27. Have You Lost Your Spiritual Practice Since Becoming a Mum?20 May 202500:18:28

    In today’s solo episode, I share something I’ve never really heard anyone talk about: how my deep connection to my spiritual self was quietly lost when I became pregnant, and how that disconnection lingered into motherhood.

    I talk about:

    • The unexpected shift in my relationship with yoga, meditation, and cycle tracking

    • Why pregnancy felt like being in emotional ‘no man’s land’

    • How motherhood became both my disconnection and my practice

    • The shame I felt seeing other spiritual mums still thriving

    • What’s helping me reconnect now

    This one is close to my heart. If you’ve ever felt untethered from your spiritual self as a mother, please know: you’re not alone. I hope this episode gives you a sense of understanding and a gentle invitation to come back to yourself.

    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    26. This might just save your relationship [Voice Note]18 May 202500:07:01

    In this short but powerful voice note episode, I'm sharing the one book that completely shifted my understanding of anger, and honestly helped my relationship in the process.

    If you’ve been feeling constantly irritated, resentful, or just off - especially in your closest relationships - this one’s for you. I talk about the emotional impact of The Dance of Anger by Harriet Lerner, how it landed in a moment of crisis, and why every woman (especially mothers and partners) should read or listen to it.

    Read the book 👉 The Dance of Anger by Harriet Lerner 
    🎧 Also available as an audiobook on Spotify.

    Share your thoughts with me:


    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    25. Backpacking with a 5 Year Old - Mum's Talk with Janina Breitling13 May 202500:58:04

    Building a Life and Biz On The Road 

    What would it take to quit your job, sell everything, and travel the world for six years - with your kid in tow?

    In today’s inspiring Mum's Talk episode, I’m joined by Janina Breitling: mother, adventurer, entrepreneur, and founder of the sustainable menstrual product brand Nookees. Together, we dive into her story of leaving behind a stable freelance journalism career to give her son a different kind of education - one built on experience, connection, and a deep respect for the world.

    We talk about:

    • How Janina prepared for a global trip with her five-year-old

    • What worldschooling actually looked like in practice

    • Starting a mission-driven product business from a kitchen table in Bali

    • Creating the Nookees Foundation and tackling period poverty across three continents

    • Motherhood, identity, and how to follow your instincts (even when everyone says you’re crazy)

    Whether you’ve ever dreamt of leaving it all behind or you just need a dose of bravery and bold motherhood, this one’s for you.

    📲 Follow Janina @janina.breitling and Nookes @nookes_ on Instagram
    🩸 Curious about Nookees? Explore Janina’s foundation and products https://nookees.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooZj__VlNCrVkOAC557z7N1aIpR-RWz8LUuZ7j0MG2m5ir0ZdEw 

    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    42. I’m financially dependent on my partner… is my family safe?02 Sep 202500:44:02

    This week I’m opening up about something that feels raw but vital: financial independence for mums. It started with a viral comment I left on a reel by Tori Dunlap (Her First $100K). The conversation that followed showed me how many women still believe 'my partner handles the money, so I don’t need to worry.'

    But is that really safe? What happens if life changes through divorce, illness, job loss or widowhood?

    you’ll hear:

    • why 'my partner handles the money' feels safe, but isn’t

    • the truth behind the 80% of divorces initiated by women

    • how history still shapes our finances today

    • the motherhood penalty and why mums retire with less

    • a step-by-step guide to becoming financially independent (without shame)

    Resources to help:

    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:

    Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    24. Even Rihanna Struggles with This: A Pep Talk for When You're Feeling Overwhelmed10 May 202500:05:49

    You might not feel like you’ve got much in common with a global superstar like Rihanna but you do! Yep, even the rich and famous wrestle with the identity shift that comes with motherhood.


    From feeling guilty about working, to navigating body changes, and struggling with the new 'mum' version of themselves… yes, even Rihanna has said 'same.'

    I share why Rihanna’s recent comments struck such a chord with me, and why comparing our lives to others (celebs or not) often misses the point. We’re all figuring it out, one day at a time.

    Here's my Good Vibes playlist  including Ella, Ella, Ella! ☔️ 


    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    23. Struggling With Money Since Becoming a Mum? Here’s What I Wish I Knew About Maternity Pay and Baby Expenses06 May 202500:37:41

    If you're struggling with money since becoming a mum or expanding your family, you are not alone. In this episode, I share what I wish I'd heard before having a child, including:

    • Why maternity pay isn’t a full salary replacement 

    • What I would have done differently financially

    • Common mistakes self-employed mums make

    • Honest tips to cut costs without cutting joy

    • How my family saves on clothes, toys, food, and more without shame

    Whether you're expecting, self-employed, or just wondering where all your money is going, this episode offers real stories and smart, practical advice to help you feel more in control of your finances.

    Links mentioned:

    Don't forget...
    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    22. Feeling Overwhelmed? This One Change Helped Me Feel Like Me Again23 Apr 202500:07:11

    Hellooooo! I'm back after a short pause, and today’s episode is a gentle re-entry into both the podcast and my personal practice. I share why I stepped away, what I learned during that time, and how I’ve been carving out space for myself again.

    This episode is about what it looks like to intentionally rework your mornings to feel more grounded, supported, and alive, especially in the chaos of motherhood.

    I talk about:

    • Why I took a break and how it helped me regroup

    • What my new early morning routine looks like (and why it’s not every day)

    • How menstrual cycle awareness is helping me manage energy and avoid burnout

    • The surprising benefits of going to bed early instead of Netflix-ing the night away

    • Why you don’t need to join the 5AM Club to make a meaningful shift

    🎧 Whether you're listening during your night feed or a quiet walk, I hope this episode feels like a permission slip to do things your way.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    21. A Personal Update: When life gives you lemons01 Apr 202500:02:40

    Hi my loves! As we hit 20 episodes, I've decided to take a little pause to regroup and reground because life has been a LOT! But don't worry, I've got some great episodes already recorded for you and I can't wait to share them!

    ➡️ In the meantime, don't forget to hit FOLLOW/SUBSCRIBE to get the latest episode automatically when I return.
    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    20. Co-Sleeping vs Sleep Training: Why Nuance Matters29 Mar 202500:05:49

    This topic gets people fired up: co-sleeping vs sleep training. Which is better? Which is “right”? In today’s episode, I dive into the real conversation around these parenting choices, sharing my personal experience and the bigger picture that often gets missed.

    We explore:

    • The problem with black and white thinking in motherhood
    • Why guilt-based messaging can do more harm than good
    • What happened when we transitioned from co-sleeping to a crib
    • How to make the right decision for your family without shame

    As always, there’s no one-size-fits-all in motherhood. This is a space for nuance, for sharing, and for reminding yourself that you’re doing your best.

    📲 What has YOUR sleep journey looked like? Share with me here in the comments or:

    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    19. Who am I now? The struggle of identity loss after becoming a mum25 Mar 202500:26:36

    Becoming a mother is one of the biggest transformations a woman can go through, and yet, it’s rarely acknowledged as the profound identity shift that it is. If you’ve been feeling lost, struggling to recognise yourself, or grieving the freedom of your pre-mum life, this episode is for you.
    I’m diving into the archetypes of the maiden and the mother: what they represent, why it can feel so hard to let go of the maiden, and how we can move through this transition with more ease and acceptance. We’ll explore how to honour the identity shift of motherhood, ways to keep your inner maiden alive, and how to integrate her into this next chapter of your life.

    Resources & mentions:
    🎶 My Inner Maiden Playlist

    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    18. Real Mums Share Their Best Self-Care Tips (You’ll Want to Try These!)22 Mar 202500:08:45

    Self-care looks different for everyone, and I wanted to hear from YOU! In this episode, I’m sharing real self-care ideas from mums just like you, because let’s be honest, finding time for ourselves as mums isn’t always easy.

    From quick morning routines to spa days, movement, and reconnecting with friends, these are real-life self-care practices that work. If you’ve been struggling to make time for yourself, this episode is packed with ideas to help you recharge in ways that feel doable and enjoyable.

    What does YOUR self-care look like? Share with me here in the comments or:


    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    17. Your brain is not the same after having a baby (and science says so!)18 Mar 202500:31:20

    If you feel like motherhood has completely rewired your brain since giving birth, you're right! Science proves that pregnancy and postpartum change your brain in ways that affect memory, emotions, and even your sense of self. This transition, called matrescence, is as real as puberty, but no one talks about it.

    In this episode, I dive into the real, biological shifts that happen in your brain after having a baby, why you might feel different (or even unrecognisable to yourself), and how to navigate this identity shift with more self-compassion.

    What we cover in this episode:
    ✔️ Why your brain is scientifically different after motherhood
    ✔️ How these changes impact your emotions, memory, and identity
    ✔️ Why society expects mums to ‘bounce back’ when that’s impossible
    ✔️ How to embrace matrescence instead of resisting it

    👉 Let’s chat! Did matrescence hit you hard, or did you ease into it? Comment on the episode or DM me on Instagram @natalie.kmartin

    Resources & mentions:
    📌 Research on how pregnancy changes the brain https://www.science.org/content/article/pregnancy-resculpts-women-s-brains-least-2-years

    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    16. Why Pregnancy Feels Like a No Man’s Land (And How It’s Actually Preparing You for Motherhood)15 Mar 202500:11:40

    If you’re pregnant right now and feeling like you’re stuck in a weird inbetween space where your old life doesn’t quite fit anymore but you’re not yet a mother, this episode is for you. This transitional phase can feel unsettling, but what if it’s actually preparing you for what’s to come?

    In this episode, we dive into:
    ✔ The emotional and physical shifts of pregnancy that feel like a loss but are actually a soft landing into motherhood.
    ✔ Why pregnancy can make you feel disconnected from your old passions and interests.
    ✔ How to embrace this liminal space instead of resisting it.
    ✔ The role of support and guidance from those who’ve walked this path before you.

    This is part one of a three-episode arc. Next up, we’ll dive into matrescence - the identity shift that happens when you become a mother. And after that, we’ll explore how to honour the maiden version of yourself as you step into this new chapter.

    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    15. Is It Child Abuse or Good Parenting? The Internet’s Obsession With Mum Shaming and Why It Has To Stop!11 Mar 202500:18:53

    Whether it's on Instagram, Facebook, Reddit, Mumsnet, or elsewhere, the judgment and cruelty some mothers experience online is shocking. From breastfeeding choices to sleep training, house cleanliness, and even how someone becomes a mother, the internet seems to think it has a say in it all. In this episode, I break down why this needs to stop, the damage it causes, and why we need to support each other instead of tearing each other down.

    In This Episode, I Cover:

    • The surge of online mum shaming and why it’s so harmful

    • The recent backlash against Lily Collins and the wider implications of judging mothers

    • The brutal comments mothers receive about breastfeeding, sleep training, and parenting choices

    • Why no one has the right to judge another mother’s experience

    • The power of stopping and reflecting before shaming others

    • Why “let them be wrong about you” is a phrase to live by


    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    41. Back to basics: the self-care hierarchy for overwhelmed mums26 Aug 202500:29:56

    In this episode of The Mama Circle Podcast, Nat gets real about self-care — not the glossy Instagram version, but the kind that actually keeps you functioning as a mum.

    She shares her take on the self-care hierarchy — a simple triage approach inspired by Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. At the base are the survival basics: water, sleep, food, movement. Once those are in place, you can layer on soothing practices (like a shower or clean clothes), restorative extras (like meditation or journalling), and finally self-development and expansion.

    This episode is a reminder that self-care isn’t indulgence, it’s maintenance. And when you feel overwhelmed or burnt out, you don’t need a bubble bath — you probably just need a glass of water and an early night.

    ✨ Inside this episode:

    • Why so many mums skip the basics of self-care (and why that backfires)

    • The four levels of the self-care hierarchy and how to use them as triage

    • Quick, doable ways to build a foundation of care when time is short

    • How small shifts (like drinking water or going to bed earlier) create space for bigger ones

    Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated. It starts with one basic step.

    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:

    Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    14. THANK YOU! [Voice Memo]08 Mar 202500:03:34

    Eeek! The Mama Circle Podcast is a little over a month old and I am sending a HUGE thanks to you. 

    I truly value your support with this show! Please do get involved with any topic ideas or anything else you'd like to share with me here in the comments or:

    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    13. I love my kid, but I also need space! Sound familiar?04 Mar 202500:25:48

    In this raw and unfiltered episode, I open up about one of those nights where everything felt like it was spiraling out of control. From Jackson’s acrobatic nursing routines to the overwhelming mix of exhaustion, anger, and guilt, I share the honest reality of a mom struggling to hold it all together. 
    This episode isn’t about having it all figured out. It’s about acknowledging that feeling overwhelmed doesn’t mean you’re failing; it just means you’re human.


    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    12. This is the BEST self-care activity I've found yet01 Mar 202500:07:05

    What if I told you that grappling on the floor with bulky men and trying to flip them over is the BEST thing I've found to help relieve stress in my motherhood journey so far? Yep, I'm talking about BJJ - Brazilian Ju-Jitstu. And it might just help you too. 

    Have you ever tried BJJ? What are the best things you've found so far to help manage your stress as a mum? Share  your thoughts and tips with me here in the comments or:


    Here's where I'm practicing BJJ: Anonymous Ju-Jitsu Addicts


    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    11: From free spirit in Paris to mum of 2 in rural Australia - Mum's Talk with Rebecca Hurtrel25 Feb 202500:48:25

    In this first episode of my new series, I sit down with my long-time friend, Rebecca Hurtrel: yoga teacher, occupational therapist and mum to two boys. We talk about her transition from a free-spirited life of world travel to motherhood, the cultural contrasts of having babies in France vs. Australia, and how she navigates parenting with two energetic kids.

    We also dive into:

    • Adjusting from one child to two - what changes?
    • How motherhood shifts your identity and priorities
    • The challenges of balancing personal time, work, and parenting
    • The unexpected lessons of motherhood, from unsolicited advice to letting go of ‘mum guilt’

    This episode is full of real, honest reflections and a good dose of inspiration. Whether you’re a new mum, a seasoned parent, or just curious about different motherhood experiences, you won’t want to miss this chat.

    Links and Resources:
    ♥️ Follow Becca on Instagram: @rebecca_hurtrel
    🧘‍♀️ Becca’s website: https://rebeccahurtrelwellness.wordpress.com
    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    10. Returning to work after maternity leave [Voice Note]22 Feb 202500:03:01

    Hi ho, hi ho, it's back to work I go. Eek! I'm feeling allllll the feels as my maternity leave draws to a close, so help a girl out! 

    How are you managing the return to work? Share  your thoughts and tips with me here in the comments or:

    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    09. Having kids is AMAZING! Here's why it's the best thing ever18 Feb 202500:25:02

    After last week's deep dive into the tougher side of parenting, this episode is all about the magic of having children. Yes, motherhood is challenging but it’s also full of incredible, heart-melting moments that make it all worth it. I’m sharing my personal reflections on why having kids is amazing, plus contributions from my Instagram community.

    We’ll talk about transformation, time management, compassion, personal growth, and those unexpected little joys that make parenthood so special. If you're in the thick of a rough parenting season, this one’s for you.

    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode


    08. What cracked feet have to do with motherhood [Voice Memo]15 Feb 202500:03:58

    Okay so this voice note feels kinda vulnerable to share but it really struck me as a sign of needing more me-time and self care so....here goes.

    What have YOU noticed about yourself slipping since becoming a mama? I'd love to hear! Share it with me here in the comments or:

    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    07. Having kids is AWFUL! Here's why12 Feb 202500:41:39

    Welcome back to The Mama Circle podcast. This episode dives into a topic that’s spicy, controversial, and might make some listeners squirm: why having kids (and parenthood in general) is sometimes awful.

    I’m not here to scare anyone off parenthood or bash motherhood, but to get real about the tough parts no one talks about enough. From constant messes to sleep deprivation, shifting identities to endless explaining, this episode opens up the dialogue about the harder truths of parenting. And don’t worry. Next week, we’ll explore the joys and beauty of motherhood. For now, let’s dive into the challenges.

    Resources, Links, & Mentions:


    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    06. That heart-stopping moment when your toddler falls [Voice Memo]08 Feb 202500:05:10

    The moment when your little one falls is HEART-STOPPING! But I found a surprising antidote to the blood and tears, and wanted to share it with you. 

    What do YOU do when your little one hurts themselves? I'd love to hear! Share it with me here in the comments or:

    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

     

    05. Parenting on your period!? How your menstrual cycle affects your parenting04 Feb 202500:32:08

    Ever wondered why some days you're the Pinterest-perfect mum, and other days you’re hiding in the bathroom, dreaming of a solo trip to Hawaii? You’re not alone. In this episode, we dive into how your menstrual cycle impacts your parenting, from the highs of ovulation to the lows of PMS.

    Discover practical tips to honour your cycle, create more self-compassion, and adapt your parenting to each season of your cycle. Whether you’re bleeding, breastfeeding, or somewhere in between, this episode will help you feel more in tune with your body and your emotions as a mum.

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

    • What menstrual cycle awareness is and how it affects your life.
    • The seasonal framework of the menstrual cycle: Inner Winter, Spring, Summer, and Autumn.
    • How hormones like oestrogen and progesterone impact your mood, energy, and parenting style.
    • Practical ways to honour your cycle, even as a busy mum.

    Resources, Links, & Mentions:

    💍 Femometer Cycle Tracking ring to track your cycle for pregnancy or contraception 
    🩸 Free Menstrual Cycle Tracker via my mailing list: subscribepage.io/overwhelmbingo
    🎙️ The FemmePowered Podcast for all things menstrual cycle


    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:

    Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠

    Website: www.nataliekmartin.com ⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    40. Holidays with kids: how to make them fun (and actually relaxing)19 Aug 202500:24:14

    It's holiday time! Once you’ve got kids though, they'll look very different to how they used to — but that doesn’t mean they can’t be fun, memorable and even (dare I say it) relaxing. In this episode, I’m sharing tips fresh from my own trip to Spain with my toddler.

    From flights and airports to naps and meals, I’ll walk you through the small mindset shifts and realistic travel tips for mums that made all the difference.

    Whether you’re travelling solo with your child, as a family, or with friends, this episode will help you let go of old expectations, take the easy options without guilt, and create memories that feel just as good as the ones you made pre-kids — even if they look very different.

    ✨ In this episode you’ll hear:

    • Why holidays with toddlers aren’t really “holidays” — and how to be okay with that

    • Travel tips for flights, airports, and luggage when you’ve got little ones in tow

    • How to pack light but smart (without forgetting the essentials)

    • Why convenience is your best friend (yes, even sunbeds and screen time)

    • How to make memories that matter without burning yourself out

    If you’ve got a family holiday coming up, this one’s for you.

     

    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:

    Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    04. Guess who woke up first?! [voice memo celebration]29 Jan 202500:04:21

    My loves, something MOMENTOUS happened! And I just had to share it with you. For the first time in a while, I woke up before Jackson. And it's been continuing (mostly) ever since. So this  episode is about those small wins that feel like a big deal in motherhood. It’s a reminder to celebrate all the wins, no matter how small, and an invitation for you to do the same.

    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:

    Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Website: ⁠www.nataliekmartin.com ⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    03.2 Mum Rage: How to deal with it, with Dr. Jenny Turner - Part 229 Jan 202500:28:30

    😡 Let's talk RAGE!In this powerful episode, Nat is joined by clinical psychologist Dr. Jenny Turner to unpack the topic of mum rage. Together, they explore the hidden roots of rage in motherhood, why it’s not just a "mum problem," and how unmet needs play a pivotal role in these intense emotional moments. With 15 years of experience supporting mothers, Dr. Jenny shares invaluable insights on how societal expectations and isolation contribute to the "volcanic rage" many mothers experience.

    This is part one of a two-part conversation. In this episode, they discuss:

    • Why the term “mum rage” might be unhelpful
    • The link between rage and unmet needs
    • How unmet needs contribute to the experience of rage
    • Why rage often shows up later in motherhood, not just in the early postpartum period
    • The profound impact of disconnection from our authentic selves on modern motherhood


    Nat shares her own experiences of mum rage, and Jenny’s reflections are both validating and eye-opening. This conversation will leave you feeling seen, supported, and ready to approach these feelings with compassion rather than shame.



    Jenny’s Website: https://www.mindbodysoulpsychology.co.uk/ Jenny’s Instagram: @drjennypsychologist

    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:

    Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Website: ⁠www.nataliekmartin.com ⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    03. Mum Rage: What is it and why the f*** does it happen? with Dr. Jenny Turner - Part 129 Jan 202500:35:27

    😡 Let's talk RAGE!In this powerful episode, Nat is joined by clinical psychologist Dr. Jenny Turner to unpack the topic of mum rage. Together, they explore the hidden roots of rage in motherhood, why it’s not just a "mum problem," and how unmet needs play a pivotal role in these intense emotional moments. With 15 years of experience supporting mothers, Dr. Jenny shares invaluable insights on how societal expectations and isolation contribute to the "volcanic rage" many mothers experience.

    This is part one of a two-part conversation. In this episode, they discuss:

    • Why the term “mum rage” might be unhelpful
    • The link between rage and unmet needs
    • How unmet needs contribute to the experience of rage
    • Why rage often shows up later in motherhood, not just in the early postpartum period
    • The profound impact of disconnection from our authentic selves on modern motherhood


    Nat shares her own experiences of mum rage, and Jenny’s reflections are both validating and eye-opening. This conversation will leave you feeling seen, supported, and ready to approach these feelings with compassion rather than shame.



    Jenny’s Website: ⁠https://www.mindbodysoulpsychology.co.uk/ ⁠Jenny’s Instagram: ⁠@drjennypsychologist⁠

    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:

    Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Website: ⁠⁠www.nataliekmartin.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode


    02. How to have a motherhood you truly love29 Jan 202500:33:51

    When you became a mum, you probably spent hours thinking about your baby, but how much time did you spend thinking about your experience of motherhood?

Here’s the truth: Your wellbeing is the foundation your family grows from and research shows that a caregiver’s mental health plays a crucial role in a child’s development, especially in those first 5 years. But with all the demands of motherhood, it’s easy to put yourself last.



    In this episode, I’m flipping that script. We’ll explore 3 powerful questions to help you shape a motherhood that feels good to you. You’ll also hear why it’s so important to centre your well-being, not just for yourself but for your child’s long term development.



    Resources, Links, & Mentions:The Royal Foundations Research Report on Early Childhood

    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:

    Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Website: ⁠⁠⁠www.nataliekmartin.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode


    [BONUS] 25 fun and easy ways to beat overwhelm29 Jan 202500:03:00

    If you've ever found yourself overwhelmed and triggered by your little one then I have a free resource for you. It's overwhelm busting bingo! Here are 25 fun and easy ways to feel better - quickly!

    Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠

    And, you can even do them with your kids. Print it out and stick it to your fridge, or keep it somewhere handy to refer to when you need a moment to reset!

    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:

    Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.nataliekmartin.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode


    01. Welcome to The Mama Circle Podcast29 Jan 202500:13:18

    Welcome to the very first episode of The Mama Circle podcast! In this episode, I (Nat) take you on a journey through my personal story, from a pivotal moment in 2016 that changed how I spoke to myself, to the life-altering experience of becoming a mother. I’m sharing the raw, real, and honest truth about the mental load, the messy middle, and the self-discovery that comes with motherhood. 🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:

    Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.nataliekmartin.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode


    Trailer09 Jan 202500:02:26

    Welcome to The Mama Circle Podcast!

    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:

    Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.nataliekmartin.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode


    39. Parenting in 1990 vs 2025: The Brutal Money Gap12 Aug 202500:24:46

    If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Why can’t I just cope like my mum did?” — this episode will make you feel seen.

    Nat breaks down the real numbers behind the parenting struggle in 2025, comparing wages, housing, childcare, energy bills, food, holidays, and petrol costs today with those from the 1990s. Spoiler: the maths is brutal.

    💥 Jaw-drop stat: In 1990, the average UK family had the equivalent of £2,870 a year in today’s money left over after essentials. In 2025? The same lifestyle leaves the average family almost £9,000 in the red.

    We’re talking about:

    • How wages have risen — but not enough to keep up with the essentials.

    • Why two incomes are now a necessity, not a choice.

    • The staggering cost of childcare (and why it feels like a second mortgage).

    • The jump in everyday bills — from electricity to broadband.

    • Why holidays have gone from a yearly treat to a once-in-a-blue-moon luxury.

    • And all the extra emotional and mental load that our parents simply didn’t face.

    By the end, you’ll see why it’s not you — it’s the system. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll stop blaming yourself for not keeping up in a game that’s completely changed.

    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:

    Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    38. The easiest thing you'll do on a tough day (a gentle hard day protocol—no “shoulds,” just relief)05 Aug 202500:13:01

    Having a rough day? This episode offers the simplest reset you’ll try: a Hard Day Protocol that skips the “shoulds” and leans into what you already do that helps. I share my own list to show you just how easy it really is.
    🎶 My Hard Day playlists

    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:

    Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    37. How to survive sick days with your toddler (without losing your mind)29 Jul 202500:20:32

    When your toddler is sick and everything falls apart – the routine, the sleep, the house – it’s easy to feel like you're on the edge.

    In this honest and helpful episode, Natalie shares how she survived a week of solo parenting while her toddler was unwell – and how she actually came out of it feeling more rested than expected. From letting go of tidying to reclaiming nap times for rest, this is a refreshingly real look at navigating the chaos of sick days with more calm and less burnout.

    Listeners will hear:

    • practical tips for handling sick days without losing their mind

    • how to prioritise what actually matters (and drop the rest)

    • why rest during nap time is not a luxury – it’s survival

    • how simple rituals like drawing or a short walk can shift the whole energy

    • creating space for help and support (and actually accepting it)

    • small boundaries that protect energy, sleep, and sanity

    This is the episode every overwhelmed parent needs when the house is upside down, the to-do list won’t quit, and their child just wants to be held all day.

    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:

    Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    36. Why your child’s sleep will never be perfect! with sleep expert Hannah Clapham22 Jul 202501:21:52

    In this episode of The Mama Circle Podcast, Natalie chats with Hannah Clapham from Little Nest Sleep about the reality of baby and toddler sleep. Hannah shares how she went from feeling out of control and exhausted to helping families find what works for them, without rigid routines or guilt.

    They talk honestly about why there’s so much pressure to ‘do sleep right’ and how easy it is to feel like you’re failing when your child doesn’t follow the rules.

    Inside this episode:

    • What ‘sleep training’ really means (and why it’s not just cry-it-out)

    • The cultural myths that tell us sleep should look the same for every family

    • Why short naps and early wake-ups can be normal

    • How sleep needs change as your child grows

    • How to handle naps without losing your mind

    • Tips for adding baby number two and managing different sleep needs

    • Permission to trust yourself more and shut out the noise

    This chat is full of nuance, real stories and reminders that you’re not alone. It’s for anyone feeling stuck in the trenches of sleep deprivation or second-guessing every bedtime.

    Need some help with your little one's sleep? Connect with Hannah



    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:

    Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    35. From deep in the trench - a raw day in motherhood [Voice Note]15 Jul 202500:09:44

    This episode is not a pep talk. It’s a personal share from the floor of my son's bedroom, nap-trapped with my sick toddler on my chest, period pain in full force, and all the ‘shoulds’ swirling in my head. This is real life: the messy moments that don’t make it onto Pinterest boards.


    I share how sometimes the healthiest thing is not to ‘fix’ yourself but to let yourself be distracted (yep, even by mindless Instagram scrolls). Sometimes the only question is: What’s the absolute minimum that needs to get done today


    If you’ve ever felt stuck under the weight of sick days, laundry piles, emotional overwhelm or just the relentlessness of it all, this one’s for you. You are not alone.

    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.If you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it – this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    👉🏽 Overcome those moments of overwhelm with some light hearted fun! ⁠⁠Download my Overwhelm Busting Bingo sheet here⁠⁠

    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:

    Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode

    48. The real reason mums are exhausted - hello, The Mental Load!14 Oct 202500:35:42

    You know that feeling when you’re wiped out but can’t explain why? You’ve been running on autopilot, juggling birthday gifts, nap schedules and meal plans, but it’s not just the doing that’s exhausting. It’s the thinking about everything.

    In this episode, Nat dives into the real reason mums are exhausted: the mental load. She unpacks how it quietly drains mothers, how gender roles and social conditioning created it, and what to do when you feel like the household project manager instead of an equal partner.

    You’ll hear:

    • What the mental load actually looks like day to day

    • Why it’s not about doing too much, but holding too much

    • How gender roles and conditioning keep mums overloaded

    • The resentment loop that creeps into relationships

    • How to start sharing the load without another argument

    🎧 Listen if you’ve ever felt like the manager of your household instead of a partner in it.
    Because it’s not just you, and it’s not what you think.


    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.

    We talk about this kind of stuff in It's A Lot. So, if you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it, this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠


    👉🏽 Reset from chaos to calm in minutes The Overwhelmed to Grounded Toolkit gives you three simple, real-life tools to help you recalibrate without adding more to your to-do list. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Download it here.⁠⁠⁠


    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:

    Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠

    ☕️ Support my work: if you’re enjoying my podcast, you can buy me a virtual coffee here! Thank you 🫶🏽 buymeacoffee.com/nataliekmartin⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode


    47. When having a baby breaks your marriage (and why it really happens)07 Oct 202500:30:07

    So many of us feel blindsided by how much motherhood changes our relationships. Nobody warns you how having a baby can completely rewrite the dynamics between you and your partner...the exhaustion, the resentment, the unspoken mental load.

    In this episode, Nat reads two Reddit posts from mums whose marriages started crumbling after having kids and reflects on why it really happens. From the invisible load to unmet needs, shifting identities, and structural cracks that existed long before the baby, this one’s a deep, honest look at why modern motherhood leaves so many couples struggling to stay connected.

    If you’ve ever wondered, “Is it just us?” — you’re not alone.

    In this episode:

    • The difference between structural vs. circumstantial relationship strain

    • Why unmet needs (sleep, rest, connection) turn into resentment

    • How the mental load creeps in and erodes partnership

    • When to question if staying together is helping or harming

    • Why separation isn’t failure, and what rebuilding support looks like

    Listen if you’re:

    • Feeling unseen or unsupported in your relationship

    • Wondering if your marriage can survive early motherhood
    • Craving validation and a reminder you’re not the only one


  • 🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.

    We talk about this kind of stuff in It's A Lot. So, if you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it, this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠


    👉🏽 Reset from chaos to calm in minutes The Overwhelmed to Grounded Toolkit gives you three simple, real-life tools to help you recalibrate without adding more to your to-do list. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Download it here.⁠⁠


    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:

    Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠


    ☕️ Support my work: if you’re enjoying my podcast, you can buy me a virtual coffee here! Thank you 🫶🏽 buymeacoffee.com/nataliekmartin

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    • 46. Motherhood was my money wake-up call30 Sep 202500:33:45

    Money is one of those things we don’t talk about enough, especially as mums. In this episode, I’m sharing my own money wake-up call and how motherhood completely changed the way I look at finances.

    I open up about:

    • ​
    • ​The messy money habits I carried into my thirties
    • ​
    • ​How motherhood magnified the gaps in my financial safety net
    • ​
    • ​Why I never want my son to worry about my financial wellbeing
    • ​
    • ​The small shifts I’m making now to build financial independence
    • ​
    • ​The tools helping me stay on track


    This isn’t a “how-to” from someone who’s got it all figured out. It’s a real, honest account of where I’m at and the changes I’m making in the hope that it helps you feel less alone with your own money story.

    If motherhood has been your money wake-up call too, this one’s for you.


    Resources mentioned:

    💸 Financielle: https://www.financielle.com/

    🤩 Join a loving community of mums in IT'S A LOT – free for 30 days.

    We talk about this kind of stuff in It's A Lot. So, if you’re feeling shaky having brought your new baby home, in the trenches of toddlerhood or just need a place to share the joys of being a mama with people who get it, this is your new support network. The best part? It’s all via voice notes ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nataliekmartin.com/mama-circle⁠⁠⁠⁠


    👉🏽 Reset from chaos to calm in minutes The Overwhelmed to Grounded Toolkit gives you three simple, real-life tools to help you recalibrate without adding more to your to-do list. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Download it here.⁠


    Want to share your thoughts on this episode? Comment on Spotify or:

    Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@natalie.kmartin⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠info@nataliekmartin.com⁠⁠


    ☕️ Support my work: if you’re enjoying my podcast, you can buy me a virtual coffee here! Thank you 🫶🏽 buymeacoffee.com/nataliekmartin

    ⁠⁠

    📢 Don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode


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