Episode Details

In this episode of Motherwhelm Bites, I sit down with Ali Heppell and Bronte Taylor to talk about birth trauma, matrescence, healing, and what mothers really need after difficult birth experiences.

Ali is a mother of two, postpartum doula, matrescence educator, motherhood studies practitioner, and women's circle facilitator. Bronte is a mother, accredited mental health social worker, motherhood studies practitioner, and EMDR and Schema therapist. Together, they bring a deeply compassionate, trauma-informed perspective to supporting mothers as they make sense of birth, identity, and the transition into motherhood.

Together, we explore what birth trauma really is, how it can affect both the mind and body, and why so many mothers struggle to recognise or validate their own experiences. We also discuss matrescence, the cultural silence surrounding maternal suffering, and what genuine healing can look like after a difficult birth.

This conversation is a thoughtful invitation to approach birth trauma with curiosity rather than judgement, and a reminder that healing isn't reserved for moments of crisis—it can begin whenever a mother feels ready to honour her story.

Whether you've experienced birth trauma, support mothers in your professional work, or simply want to better understand the realities of maternal mental health, I hope this conversation leaves you feeling informed, validated, and hopeful.

Connect with Ali & Bronte

• Instagram: @aliheppell_mothercare

• Instagram: @bronte_heartfelttherapy

Topics discussed: birth trauma, birth trauma recovery, healing after birth trauma, matrescence, EMDR therapy, Schema therapy, motherhood studies, postpartum doula, women's circles, maternal mental health, trauma-informed care, motherhood identity.