Squiggly Motherhood | Reflective Motherhood, Honest Stories & Intentional Parenting

I was 20 weeks pregnant with my miracle baby when I heard the words "it’s cancerous." In this conversation, Ethlyn shares the raw reality of undergoing a mastectomy and chemotherapy while pregnant, losing her father just days after her diagnosis, and the incredible science of how her body protected her daughter through it all. Timestamps: 00:00 The moment of diagnosis with my son in the room 05:42 Navigating a "PTSD pregnancy" after three losses 08:15 Why you shouldn't ignore shooting breast pain 14:55 The "Charlie Brown" effect of receiving medical news 20:18 Losing my father 10 days after my cancer diagnosis 28:15 The miracle of the placenta: How it blocks chemo 32:10 "Mummy's fighting": Why I let my son shave my head 43:25 Giving birth to a healthy 7lb 10oz baby 58:35 Why I wrote a book to help families talk about cancer Episode Resources: Support Ethlyn's Children's Book: https://www.gofundme.com/f/a-childrens-book-to-help-families-talk-about-cancer Macmillan Cancer Support: https://www.macmillan.org.uk/ Mummy’s Star: https://www.facebook.com/MummysStar Links: Instagram: https://instagram.com/squigglymotherhood Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@squigglymotherhood Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/squigglymotherhood Substack: https://squigglymotherhood.substack.com/ Email: squigglymotherhood@gmail.com Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/squigglymotherhood Hello Fresh Discount: https://www.hellofresh.co.uk/freebox/MzMxMTU1MzY1LTAtNC0xMS1HQg #PregnancyCancer #BreastCancerAwareness #MiracleBaby #MotherhoodUnfiltered #CancerWarrior #ChemoWhilePregnant #MummyStar #SquigglyMotherhood #Mastectomy #GriefAndHope #ParentingThroughCancer #CancerSupport #LifeTransformation #Resilience #CancerDiagnosis

I sat down with independent midwife Daisy to discuss why so many women feel traumatized by their birth experiences and how we can finally find healing. We talk about the shocking reality of modern maternity care, navigating unexpected delivery outcomes, and why true support matters much more than pain management. Connect With Me: * Instagram: https://instagram.com/squigglymotherhood * Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@squigglymotherhood * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/squigglymotherhood * Substack: https://squigglymotherhood.substack.com/ If you've got thoughts, questions, comments or feedback you can email me at squigglymotherhood@gmail.com. If you've enjoyed the episode and would like to support me, buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/squigglymotherhood Hello Fresh Discount: https://www.hellofresh.co.uk/freebox/MzMxMTU1MzY1LTAtNC0xMS1HQg Timestamps: 00:00 - The crisis in modern maternity care 02:17 - What does an independent midwife do? 04:34 - Daisy's personal struggle with perinatal mental health 09:48 - Why birth intervention rates are rising 14:51 - Educating yourself to prevent birth trauma 21:22 - The hidden cause of traumatic birth experiences 28:59 - My unplanned rapid home birth story 36:23 - Steps to healing from your traumatic birth 58:16 - Black maternal health outcomes and advocating for yourself 1:06:24 - How a doula can protect your birth #BirthTrauma #IndependentMidwife #PerinatalMentalHealth #SquigglyMotherhood #TraumaticBirthHealing #MaternityCareCrisis #BirthChoices #ContinuityOfCare #BlackMaternalHealth #PostpartumDepressionSigns #DoulaSupport #UnplannedHomeBirth #GestationalDiabetesBirth #MotherhoodJourney #HealingFromBirth

I’m joined by NHS consultant psychiatrist Shivani to uncover your "Parenting Blueprint" and how to break unhelpful generational cycles. We explore why we often parent unconsciously, the myth of the perfect parent, and how to use reflective parenting to move from criticism to curiosity. Instagram: https://instagram.com/squigglymotherhood Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@squigglymotherhood Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/squigglymotherhood Substack: https://squigglymotherhood.substack.com If you've got thoughts, questions, comments or feedback you can email me at squigglymotherhood@gmail.com. If you've enjoyed the episode and would like to support me, buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/squigglymotherhood Hello Fresh Discount: https://www.hellofresh.co.uk/freebox/MzMxMTU1MzY1LTAtNC0xMS1HQg Timestamps 00:00 – Meet Shivani: NHS Consultant Psychiatrist 01:24 – What is a "Parenting Blueprint"? 04:49 – How to Start Reflective Parenting 07:51 – The Stair Gate Mistake & Parental Guilt 13:25 – The Myth of the Perfect Parent 19:05 – Why Saying "Sorry" to Your Child Isn't Enough 29:54 – The "Parenting Mental Health Crisis" 41:19 – Changing the Working Mother Narrative 47:52 – Building Resilience in Children 53:10 – Motherhood is an Adventure #ParentingBlueprint #ReflectiveParenting #GhostsInTheNursery #SquigglyMotherhood #ConsciousParenting #ParentingMentalHealth #GenerationalTrauma #ChildPsychiatrist #MotherhoodUnplugged #ParentingGuilt #GoodEnoughMother #UKParenting #MotherhoodJourney #RaisingResilientKids #ParentingTips

I am taking a short temporary break from Squiggly Motherhood to focus on my identity as a working mum and ensure we continue providing the high-quality content you deserve. In this episode, I’m getting vulnerable about why "life has been life-ing" and why a pause is necessary for sustainability. Key Takeaways The Identity Shift: Exploring who I am outside of being a mother and employee. Sustainability: Why we are regrouping to serve our community better. The Future: We aren’t gone for long, we already have amazing guests lined up. Throwback Series: How to stay engaged with our top episodes during the hiatus. Join our Community: https://squigglymotherhood.substack.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/squigglymotherhood Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@squigglymotherhood Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/squigglymotherhood If you've got thoughts, questions, comments or feedback you can email me at squigglymotherhood@gmail.com. If you've enjoyed the episode and would like to support me, buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/squigglymotherhood Hello Fresh Discount: https://www.hellofresh.co.uk/freebox/MzMxMTU1MzY1LTAtNC0xMS1HQg Timestamps 00:05 – Big Announcement: We are taking a break. 01:05 – Who is Nicole? The identity work I’m doing. 02:15 – The struggle of juggling career, kids, and home. 03:30 – What to expect when we return. 05:16 – My secret for lightening the mental load. #Motherhood #WorkingMum #SelfCare #SquigglyMotherhood #ParentingBurnout

I’m joined by Maryam Javaid, founder of Black and Brown Parenting, to discuss how generational trauma and colonial history impact the way we raise our children today. In this episode, we explore why traditional "gentle parenting" often feels inaccessible to our communities and how we can begin the urgent work of breaking cycles while still honoring our ancestors.Key Takeaways:* The "Love is Not Enough" Realization: Why understanding our history is the "missing story" in mainstream parenting advice.* Gentle Parenting as Privilege: How systemic issues and the "adultification" of Black and Brown children change how we parent in public.* Unlearning Agency: Why we must reclaim our minds and bodies from the "governable" behaviors inherited from colonial structures.* The Weight of Loyalty: Balancing the need for autonomy with the deep-rooted cultural expectation of servitude to our parents.Join our Community: https://squigglymotherhood.substack.com/Instagram: https://instagram.com/squigglymotherhoodTiktok: https://tiktok.com/@squigglymotherhoodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/squigglymotherhoodIf you've got thoughts, questions, comments or feedback you can email me at squigglymotherhood@gmail.com.If you've enjoyed the episode and would like to support me, buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/squigglymotherhoodHello Fresh Discount: https://www.hellofresh.co.uk/freebox/MzMxMTU1MzY1LTAtNC0xMS1HQg#GenerationalTrauma #BlackParenting #DecolonizingParenting #MotherhoodJourney #GentleParenting #CulturallyRelevantParenting #HealingTrauma #SquigglyMotherhood #BlackAndBrownParenting #BreakingCycles #ParentingIdentity #GlobalMajority #ConsciousParenting #Adultification #millennialparenting

I’m sharing the five essential things you must do before your first child is born to ensure a smoother transition into motherhood. Preparing for a newborn is more than just buying a crib; it’s about intentional recovery and mental health. In this episode, I dive into why you need to "invest in your postpartum" by prepping for physical recovery and managing your changing identity. I also discuss the importance of educating your partner on the emotional "rollercoaster" and why you should soak up every bit of your freedom while "baby is cooking". Join our Community: https://squigglymotherhood.substack.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/squigglymotherhood Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@squigglymotherhood Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/squigglymotherhood If you've got thoughts, questions, comments or feedback you can email me at squigglymotherhood@gmail.com. If you've enjoyed the episode and would like to support me, buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/squigglymotherhood Hello Fresh Discount: https://www.hellofresh.co.uk/freebox/MzMxMTU1MzY1LTAtNC0xMS1HQg Timestamps: 00:05 – Welcome to Squiggly Motherhood 00:30 – Tip 1: Investing in your postpartum recovery 02:33 – Tip 2: Why breastfeeding requires preparation 04:30 – Tip 3: Saving for your "New Identity" wardrobe 05:20 – Tip 4: Getting your partner postpartum-ready 07:15 – Tip 5: Enjoying your freedom while you can 09:09 – Managing the mental load with HelloFresh #PostpartumPreparation #FirstTimeMomTips #NewbornReady #BreastfeedingJourney #PostpartumRecovery #MotherhoodUnfiltered #NewMomLife #LactationSupport #FourthTrimester #PregnancyVlog #PartnerSupport #PostpartumEssentials #ParentingAdvice #SquigglyMotherhood #BabyPrep

Child-free by choice is an active, purposeful decision, yet I’ve found that society often treats it as a "default" failure or a phase. In this episode of Squiggly Motherhood, I’m joined by Suzie and Hannah to discuss the mental load of the "maybe," the fear of regret, and the incredible freedom found in finally saying no.Whether you’re currently on the fence or firm in your decision, this conversation is here to validate that "not wanting one" is a complete and valid reason.Join our Community: https://squigglymotherhood.substack.com/Instagram: https://instagram.com/squigglymotherhoodTiktok: https://tiktok.com/@squigglymotherhoodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/squigglymotherhoodIf you've got thoughts, questions, comments or feedback you can email me at squigglymotherhood@gmail.com.If you've enjoyed the episode and would like to support me, buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/squigglymotherhoodHello Fresh Discount: https://www.hellofresh.co.uk/freebox/MzMxMTU1MzY1LTAtNC0xMS1HQg#Childfree #Motherhood #ChildfreeByChoice #DecisionMaking #SquigglyMotherhood

Working mums often face the daunting challenge of balancing career success with the high-pressure mental load of parenting, especially when there is no family support nearby. In this episode of Squiggly Motherhood , Elizabeth Ajayi, a Director at Capgemini, explains how she navigated a major career move from PwC shortly after maternity leave, a decision many considered the "wrong time". We explore practical strategies for work-life balance , the importance of outsourcing chores like meal prepping and cleaning, and how to maintain professional ambition while thriving as a mother in a demanding consulting environment. Join our Community: https://squigglymotherhood.substack.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/squigglymotherhood Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@squigglymotherhood Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/squigglymotherhood If you've got thoughts, questions, comments or feedback you can email me at squigglymotherhood@gmail.com . If you've enjoyed the episode and would like to support me, buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/squigglymotherhood Hello Fresh Discount: https://www.hellofresh.co.uk/freebox/MzMxMTU1MzY1LTAtNC0xMS1HQg #WorkingMum #WorkLifeBalance #CareerSuccess #MentalLoad #CorporateParenting #WomenInLeadership #SquigglyMotherhood #CareerReset #NoVillageNoProblem #ProfessionalMoms

Hey, welcome back to Squiggly Motherhood ! Have you ever been caught off guard at a birthday party or in the middle of the grocery store when your child asks, "Mummy, why do you have that and I have this?" If that question makes you feel hot and bothered or a little bit awkward, you aren't alone but we need to talk about why that is. In this episode, I’m diving deep into why it’s so imperative that we stop sexualizing body parts and start calling them what they actually are. From "willys" and "pee-pees" to the actual science of the vulva and penis , I’m sharing why the right language is your child’s best defense. Join our Community: https://squigglymotherhood.substack.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/squigglymotherhood Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@squigglymotherhood Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/squigglymotherhood If you've got thoughts, questions, comments or feedback you can email me at squigglymotherhood@gmail.com . If you've enjoyed the episode and would like to support me, buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/squigglymotherhood Hello Fresh Discount: https://www.hellofresh.co.uk/freebox/MzMxMTU1MzY1LTAtNC0xMS1HQg

Why does motherhood feel so hard.. even when you love your children? You’re not failing. You’re experiencing something called matrescence . In this episode of Squiggly Motherhood , I’m joined by Rebecca Hogan , mother, life coach, and author of Me to We , to explore the identity shift that comes with becoming a mother and why it can feel so disorienting. We talk about matrescence, identity loss, loneliness, the gold and the grief of motherhood, and why understanding this transition can help you move from surviving to truly thriving. If motherhood feels harder than you expected, this conversation will help you feel seen, understood, and less alone. You’re not broken. You’re transforming. Rebecca's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebeccahogan_ Rebecca's Book - Me to We: https://rebeccahogan.co.uk/book Join our Community: https://squigglymotherhood.substack.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/squigglymotherhood Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@squigglymotherhood Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/squigglymotherhood If you've got thoughts, questions, comments or feedback you can email me at squigglymotherhood@gmail.com . If you've enjoyed the episode and would like to support me, buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/squigglymotherhood Hello Fresh Discount: https://www.hellofresh.co.uk/freebox/MzMxMTU1MzY1LTAtNC0xMS1HQg

Breastfeeding a toddler is intense and for me, it reached a point where I knew I needed boundaries to keep going. In this episode, I share what it’s really like to nurse past infancy and the boundaries I’ve had to put in place to protect my sanity, my body, and my capacity as a mum. I talk about choosing boundaries that actually feel right, staying consistent when you can, and preparing yourself for the big feelings that come with saying no. This isn’t about quitting breastfeeding, it’s about finding a way to continue that works for both of us. If you’re still nursing a toddler and feeling touched out, overwhelmed, or quietly struggling, this episode is for you. Join our Community: https://squigglymotherhood.substack.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/squigglymotherhood Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@squigglymotherhood Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/squigglymotherhood If you've got thoughts, questions, comments or feedback you can email me at squigglymotherhood@gmail.com . If you've enjoyed the episode and would like to support me, buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/squigglymotherhood Hello Fresh Discount: https://www.hellofresh.co.uk/freebox/MzMxMTU1MzY1LTAtNC0xMS1HQg

In this episode, I talk with Rose Webb, a pre- and post-natal personal trainer, about why movement in motherhood isn’t about weight, “bouncing back,” or perfect workouts... it’s about survival. We explore the uncomfortable truth that mothers often put their health last, even though motherhood is incredibly physical. From carrying and feeding to sleep deprivation and mental load, our bodies are under constant demand. Rose shares why walking really does count, why small moments of movement matter, and how fitness can support both physical strength and mental resilience. This conversation is for any mum who feels exhausted, stretched thin, or like they’re “not doing enough” and needs reassurance that caring for their body is not selfish, it’s essential. Rose Webb - PT and Founder of Just Turn Up https://www.instagram.com/just_turn_up/ Join our Community: https://squigglymotherhood.substack.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/squigglymotherhood Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@squigglymotherhood Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/squigglymotherhood If you've got thoughts, questions, comments or feedback you can email me at squigglymotherhood@gmail.com . If you've enjoyed the episode and would like to support me, buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/squigglymotherhood Hello Fresh Discount: https://www.hellofresh.co.uk/freebox/MzMxMTU1MzY1LTAtNC0xMS1HQg

In this episode, I’m sharing what it really felt like entering a new year not with excitement, but with fear, pressure, and a lot of anger. After one of the hardest years of my life, I’m questioning the lie we’re sold as mothers that we can have it all. I talk honestly about identity loss, decision fatigue, imposter syndrome, and the fear of future regret. About feeling stretched too thin, time poor, and exhausted from trying to be everything to everyone. There’s no neat conclusion here, just real reflections as I figure out what I’m willing to sacrifice, what I’m not, and how I’m learning to prioritise myself again. If you’ve ever felt like you’re failing because you can’t do it all, this episode is for you. Join our Community: https://squigglymotherhood.substack.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/squigglymotherhood Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@squigglymotherhood Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/squigglymotherhood If you've got thoughts, questions, comments or feedback you can email me at squigglymotherhood@gmail.com . If you've enjoyed the episode and would like to support me, buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/squigglymotherhood Hello Fresh Discount: https://www.hellofresh.co.uk/freebox/MzMxMTU1MzY1LTAtNC0xMS1HQg

I’m joined by mindset and vision board coach Carina for a powerful conversation about identity, self-trust, and the words we say to ourselves as mothers. We talk about how motherhood can quietly disconnect us from who we are, how negative self-talk becomes belief, and why personal growth starts with feeling calm and grounded, not fixing or reinventing yourself. This episode isn’t about becoming someone new. It’s about asking an honest question, " do I even like myself?" and beginning the journey back to you. Carina's socials: https://linktr.ee/Visionboardstudiobyck Join our Community: https://squigglymotherhood.substack.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/squigglymotherhood Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@squigglymotherhood Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/squigglymotherhood If you've got thoughts, questions, comments or feedback you can email me at squigglymotherhood@gmail.com . If you've enjoyed the episode and would like to support me, buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/squigglymotherhood Hello Fresh Discount: https://www.hellofresh.co.uk/freebox/MzMxMTU1MzY1LTAtNC0xMS1HQg

This unscripted episode is a heartfelt thank you to every listener and guest who has supported Squiggly Motherhood. What began as a small idea has grown into a meaningful community, and I am deeply grateful. The podcast isn’t stopping, and there are exciting stories and guests coming next year. Thank you for being the reason Squiggly Motherhood exists. Join our Community: https://squigglymotherhood.substack.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/squigglymotherhood Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@squigglymotherhood Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/squigglymotherhood If you've got thoughts, questions, comments or feedback you can email me at squigglymotherhood@gmail.com. If you've enjoyed the episode and would like to support me, buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/squigglymotherhood Hello Fresh Discount: https://www.hellofresh.co.uk/freebox/MzMxMTU1MzY1LTAtNC0xMS1HQg

In this episode, I reflect on the conversations that shaped Squiggly Motherhood this year. From building a village to making informed choices, resting, and investing in ourselves, this episode is a reminder that motherhood isn’t one-size-fits-all, and you’re not doing it wrong. Join our Community: https://squigglymotherhood.substack.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/squigglymotherhood Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@squigglymotherhood Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/squigglymotherhood If you've got thoughts, questions, comments or feedback you can email me at squigglymotherhood@gmail.com. If you've enjoyed the episode and would like to support me, buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/squigglymotherhood Hello Fresh Discount: https://www.hellofresh.co.uk/freebox/MzMxMTU1MzY1LTAtNC0xMS1HQg

Christmas with young kids isn’t always magical and that’s okay. In this episode, I talk honestly about the intensity of the Christmas period with young children and share a calmer, more realistic way to move through it. Less pressure. More ease. More support for you. Join the community: https://squigglymotherhood.substack.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/squigglymotherhood Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@squigglymotherhood Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/squigglymotherhood If you've got thoughts, questions, comments or feedback you can email me at squigglymotherhood@gmail.com . If you've enjoyed the episode and would like to support me, buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/squigglymotherhood Hello Fresh Discount: https://www.hellofresh.co.uk/freebox/MzMxMTU1MzY1LTAtNC0xMS1HQg

In this episode, I’m joined by Marie-Claire Frederick , founder of Nurture Network , a UK based community designed to help women thrive in their careers and businesses. She is a passionate advocate for community, connection, and women supporting women. We dive into a topic so many mothers struggle with: why it’s so hard to ask for help , even when we’re overwhelmed. Marie-Claire shares her story of growing up as one of 11 children raised by her Windrush-generation grandmother, and how that shaped her views on independence, support, and motherhood today. Join our Community: https://squigglymotherhood.substack.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/squigglymotherhood Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@squigglymotherhood Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/squigglymotherhood If you've got thoughts, questions, comments or feedback you can email me at squigglymotherhood@gmail.com . If you've enjoyed the episode and would like to support me, buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/squigglymotherhood Hello Fresh Discount: https://www.hellofresh.co.uk/freebox/MzMxMTU1MzY1LTAtNC0xMS1HQg

In this raw and honest episode I talk about my biggest failings and one of my hardest years. I open up about my difficult transition back to work, trying to do too much for too many people, and not asking for help. I share my lessons learnt and what I plan to take into the new year. Join our Community: https://squigglymotherhood.substack.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/squigglymotherhood Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@squigglymotherhood Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/squigglymotherhood If you've got thoughts, questions, comments or feedback you can email me at squigglymotherhood@gmail.com . If you've enjoyed the episode and would like to support me, buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/squigglymotherhood Hello Fresh Discount: https://www.hellofresh.co.uk/freebox/MzMxMTU1MzY1LTAtNC0xMS1HQg

In this episode, I sit down with independent midwife Daisy Kelly to talk honestly about the reality of giving birth in the UK today. Daisy shares why intervention rates are rising, why so many women leave birth feeling traumatised, and what’s really happening inside maternity care from someone who has worked both in the NHS and independently. We discuss informed consent, continuity of care, racial disparities, and how women can better advocate for themselves. Daisy also explains what healing after a difficult birth can look like and the support available. A powerful conversation for anyone preparing for birth or trying to understand their own experience. Daisy Kelly: www.mamasanctuary.co.uk www.instagram.com/mama_sanctuary⁠ Other Links: neighbourhooddoulas.org fivexmore.org www.tommys.org/pregnancy-information/about-tommys-pregnancy-information/video-call-service Join our Community: https://squigglymotherhood.substack.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/squigglymotherhood Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/@squigglymotherhood Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/squigglymotherhood If you've got thoughts, questions, comments or feedback you can email me at squigglymotherhood@gmail.com . If you've enjoyed the episode and would like to support me, buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/squigglymotherhood Hello Fresh Discount: https://www.hellofresh.co.uk/freebox/MzMxMTU1MzY1LTAtNC0xMS1HQg