Sinead O'Moore: When motherhood redefines success

This season was all about matrescence, because we need to talk about the monumental transition women go through when they become mothers. Women have been birthing and mothering children for as long as humanity exists. So matrescence has existed for as long as humanity exists. But the word only entered the dictionary this year. That might surprise you and it might not considering women have been largely ignored, belittled, oppressed and controlled for so long. These episodes are my contribution to giving voice to what we need to hear. I will forever be grateful to all of the incredible women who spoke to me for matrescence season. Their knowledge, wisdom, real and raw honesty was shared so generously for the benefit of us all.

In this episode, I sit down with Motherhood Studies Sociologist Dr. Sophie Brock to explore how social constructions such as the institution of motherhood and the the 'good mother' myth shape women’s experiences of mothering. We discuss the historical roots of these myths, their impact on maternal mental health, and how women can reclaim their agency and power within these societal expectations. From the myth of the perfect mother to maternal ambivalence, Dr Brock offers a sociological lens to understand and reclaim maternal identity. Dr Brock explains how a mother's identity can be shaped by these social constructs and how this identity formation begins in childhood when we are subjected to gendered social ideals and cultural or societal narratives of womanhood. This episode invites mothers and supporting professionals alike to reflect on societal influences, challenge restrictive myths, and embrace a multifaceted reality of motherhood. It emphasises community, awareness, and reclaiming agency amidst social constraints.

I was joined by a woman who has made it her mission to secure better supports for mothers postpartum. Aolish Gormley suffered form postpartum depression after her second baby was born. It prompted her to set up a community group called Ardú, for mothers to meet up and connect. After hearing the many struggles that mothers face postpartum, Aolish decided she would to advocate for better care and supports for mothers postpartum. The Year of Care Campaign was born. You'll find the campaign on instagram: @yearofcarecampaignor at www.yearofcare.ie

In this really interesting interview, Dr Laura Bambrick discusses the historical and societal factors shaping work-life balance in Ireland, the impact of gender roles and how those gender roles came about as well as the need for policy reforms to support families and workers of all ages. Laura outlines how and why working hours were structured the way they are in Ireland and highlights how the roles traditionally held by women in the workforce are historically lower paid. She warns of sectors becoming 'feminised' as she said that generally leads to the lowering of terms and conditions too and says a much bigger cultural shift in how we view and men in the workplace is needed.

In this episode academic, former head of Women's Studies at UCD, feminist and LGBTQ+ activist, Ailbhe Smyth joined me for a life affirming conversation about motherhood. Ailbhe reflects on having never heard the term matrescence and what the word means to her. It's a thoroughly enjoyable conversation that moves through her experience of becoming a mother and mothering in a society that doesn't value mothers. Ailbhe highlights the patriarchal structures that influence women's roles in society. In her words, if you take anything form this podcast let it be that men are people and are what we are all measured against. Women are gendered and judged and devalued in and by their gender. If you're curious about matrescence, or indeed any other life transition you are experiencing, and how I can support you as a coach take a look at my website below: www.beyoucoaching.ie www.beyoucoaching.ie/the-womens-collective