The Different Iterations of Mom

In this heartfelt episode of "Motherhood Unveiled," host Ashley welcomes Shelley Lepp, a mother of four and CEO of Writers Collective of Canada. Shelley shares her journey through young single motherhood, miscarriage, divorce, and blending families. She discusses the evolving roles and identities of motherhood, the challenges of balancing self-care with parenting, and the power of storytelling for healing. Through candid stories of resilience, vulnerability, and support, Shelley offers listeners an honest look at navigating transitions, embracing imperfection, and finding joy in both the chaos and beauty of motherhood.

Meet Shelley

Shelley is the CEO of the Writers Collective of Canada - an arts-health charity that uses writing in a community as a way to address isolation and loneliness. She's been so many iterations of 'mom' - each feels slightly different. She's been a young mom, a single mom, a dating mom, an at home mom, an in school mom, a working mom, and mom again (older mom?) - Raising 3 teens and a toddler is a wild ride and she wouldn't have it any other way. Shelley loves early mornings, long walks, real conversation, hitting the gym, creating art in any form, and exploring the city.

Timestamps 

Welcome & Podcast Introduction (00:00:04)

Season Three Launch & Guest Introduction (00:01:18)

Shelley’s Background & Connection to Motherhood (00:02:32)

Stages of Motherhood & Upcoming Milestones (00:07:58

Shelley’s Motherhood Story: Beginnings (00:12:15)

Miscarriage and Grief (00:14:30)

Marriage Ending & Single Motherhood (00:17:16)

Reconciling Expectations vs. Reality (00:25:10)

Choosing Passion & Returning to School (00:30:29)

The Power of Storytelling & Career Path (00:31:32)

Balancing Motherhood, Work, and Self (00:36:56)

Support Systems & Community (00:52:04)

New Relationship & Blended Family (00:44:53 & 00:53:21)

Surrendered Motherhood & Current Iteration (01:01:08)

Sibling Dynamics & Savouring the Present (01:07:44)

Letting Go of Pressure & Embracing Change (01:13:41)

Demystifying Motherhood & Final Thoughts (01:17:21

Episode Wrap-Up & Resources (01:20:25)

Links

• Momwell: Therapists trained in supporting mothers
• The WOMB
• Writers Collective of Canada

Connect with Ashley on IG (@ashleybcoach) or LinkedIn
Cover Art: Abigail Murphy Photography