Podcast Summary: "More Than Someone’s Mom with Ashley Audrain"
Podcast Information:
- Title: Good Inside with Dr. Becky
- Host/Author: Dr. Becky Kennedy
- Episode: More Than Someone’s Mom with Ashley Audrain
- Release Date: May 13, 2025
Introduction to the Episode
In the episode titled "More Than Someone’s Mom," Dr. Becky Kennedy engages in a profound conversation with acclaimed author Ashley Audrain. The discussion delves deep into the complexities of modern motherhood, challenging societal norms and exploring the multifaceted nature of being a "good mother."
Challenging Societal Expectations of Motherhood
Ashley Audrain brings forth her two influential books, The Push and The Whispers, which critically examine the often idealized portrayal of motherhood. She shares her journey from a public relations career to becoming a writer driven by a desire to uncover the "dark sides of motherhood."
Ashley Audrain [03:11]: "I had always sort of had this fascination with motherhood long before I decided to have children myself."
Audrain highlights the performative aspects of motherhood that society often glorifies, urging a more authentic and nuanced understanding of maternal experiences.
Personal Experiences Shaping Perspectives
Dr. Kennedy opens up about her personal challenges as a mother, particularly her son's severe illness shortly after birth. This harrowing experience not only tested her resilience but also became a catalyst for her writing.
Dr. Becky Kennedy [04:15]: "Motherhood... is a huge life change with so much emotion and so much going on."
Her narrative underscores the disparity between societal expectations and the real, often tumultuous emotions that come with motherhood.
The Pressure to Be the "Good Mother"
The conversation intensifies as the hosts discuss the pervasive pressure women face to embody the perfect mother. This societal script dictates that mothers should always prioritize their children's needs, often at the expense of their own well-being.
Ashley Audrain [11:02]: "Self-care feels selfish. And I derive my true value and worth by taking care of other people."
Dr. Kennedy and Audrain explore the internal conflict mothers experience when balancing self-care with their roles, highlighting how societal norms can lead to feelings of inadequacy and guilt.
Maternal Instinct vs. Intuition
A significant portion of the dialogue focuses on the concept of maternal instinct. Both speakers challenge the notion that parenting should be solely based on instinct, arguing that such unrealistic expectations can lead to self-doubt and feelings of failure.
Ashley Audrain [22:25]: "I think there's just no other thing we do in life that's hard and important, like parenting... if something should come on instinct alone, and if you're having a hard time, there's really only one explanation. Something's wrong with you or something's wrong with your kid."
They advocate for recognizing moments of maternal intuition without subscribing to the myth of infallible maternal instincts, promoting a healthier and more forgiving view of motherhood.
Balancing Self-Care and Motherhood
The hosts delve into strategies for mothers to incorporate self-care without guilt. They emphasize the importance of recognizing personal needs and the freedom to pursue individual interests as essential components of effective parenting.
Dr. Becky Kennedy [29:17]: "I really tried to fiercely protect those hours to run down the street to the coffee shop with my laptop and just write because I knew that I needed to do that."
By sharing personal anecdotes, both Dr. Kennedy and Audrain illustrate practical ways to balance self-care with parenting responsibilities, encouraging mothers to prioritize their mental and emotional health.
Redefining the "Good Mother"
Towards the end of the episode, the conversation shifts to redefining what it means to be a "good mother." Both speakers advocate for a more inclusive and realistic portrayal that allows for imperfections and acknowledges the diverse experiences of mothers.
Ashley Audrain [34:03]: "Just the freedom to try without knowing if you like it... was a big kind of step for me."
They argue that true goodness in motherhood lies in authenticity, self-awareness, and the ability to navigate personal and familial challenges with grace and resilience.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
The episode concludes with Dr. Kennedy and Ashley Audrain reinforcing the importance of self-compassion and the rejection of rigid societal standards. They encourage mothers to embrace their unique journeys, fostering stronger connections with their children and themselves.
Ashley Audrain [34:43]: "I just think knowing that helps."
This insightful conversation serves as a powerful reminder that motherhood is a deeply personal experience, deserving of empathy, understanding, and support beyond conventional expectations.
Notable Quotes:
- Ashley Audrain [03:11]: "I had always sort of had this fascination with motherhood long before I decided to have children myself."
- Dr. Becky Kennedy [04:15]: "Motherhood... is a huge life change with so much emotion and so much going on."
- Ashley Audrain [11:02]: "Self-care feels selfish. And I derive my true value and worth by taking care of other people."
- Ashley Audrain [22:25]: "I think there's just no other thing we do in life that's hard and important, like parenting..."
- Dr. Becky Kennedy [29:17]: "I really tried to fiercely protect those hours to run down the street to the coffee shop with my laptop and just write because I knew that I needed to do that."
- Ashley Audrain [34:03]: "Just the freedom to try without knowing if you like it... was a big kind of step for me."
This episode of Good Inside with Dr. Becky offers a candid and transformative exploration of motherhood, encouraging listeners to rethink and redefine their roles beyond societal expectations.