Postpartum to Professional: Matrescence, Mom Brain, and Identity

Motherhood changes everything - your brain, your identity, and the way you move through the world. In this episode of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, Vanessa welcomes Jeanne Clevenger, licensed clinical psychologist and mom of four, to talk about the overlooked transition called matrescence.

From the fog of “mom brain” to the pressures of postpartum depression and anxiety, Jeanne shares her personal story of raising four kids (including twins) while navigating identity shifts and professional changes. Together, we unpack the science behind postpartum brain changes, the truth about motherhood’s mental load, and the importance of reclaiming time for yourself without guilt.

This honest and practical conversation is a reminder that motherhood isn’t about doing it all perfectly… it’s about awareness, intention, and giving yourself permission to grow alongside your children.

EPISODE DESCRIPTION

• Jeanne’s journey through postpartum depression, anxiety, and raising four kids
• The science behind matrescence and why “mom brain” feels so real
• The differences between therapy and coaching for moms
• Creating intentional family values that anchor your home
• How to find time for yourself without guilt

TUNE IN TO LEARN

• What matrescence really means and why every mom experiences it
• How postpartum brain changes impact memory, identity, and connection
• Practical strategies to reduce the mental load of motherhood
• The role of therapy vs. coaching and when each is most helpful
• Simple ways to bring more intention and calm into your daily life

RESOURCES MENTIONED

• Postpartum to Professional Coaching Program: postpartumtoprofessional.com
  
  
• Free Guide for Moms Returning to Work:  https://www.postpartumtoprofessional.com/free-guide-podcast-listeners 
  
  
• Amiga Moms™ Private Coaching with Vanessa: amigamoms.com/coaching

TAKEAWAY MESSAGE
Motherhood is messy, beautiful, and ever-changing… and that’s normal. By naming the identity shifts of matrescence, giving ourselves grace, and stayin