Navigating the Journey of Motherhood an interview with Michelle Bengston

Yes , there are two of us :-)

In this episode, Michelle discusses the complexities of motherhood, particularly in the context of burnout and special needs. She shares her personal journey, the challenges of balancing identity and responsibilities, and the impact of COVID-19 on mental health. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community, self-care, and recognizing the signs of burnout, while also exploring the value of relationships and support systems in navigating these challenges.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Burnout and Motherhood

02:55 The Journey of Motherhood and Identity Loss

05:32 Finding Interests Beyond Motherhood

08:08 Moments of Burnout and Realization

10:52 The Impact of COVID on Mental Health

13:28 Recognizing Signs of Burnout

15:57 The Importance of Self-Care and Permission

18:24 Balancing Roles and Responsibilities

21:08 The Role of Partners in Parenting

23:34 Understanding Personality Types and Relationships

26:26 The Value of Community and Connection

29:10 Lessons Learned from Burnout

31:36 Final Thoughts and Advice for Moms

43:28 Connecting with the Community

43:33 Exploring the Role of Mothers in Society