Seasons of Matrescence - The Podcast

https://courses.nikkimccahon.com/discovermatrescence

Mini ep: Achievement and completion in motherhood

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 04:00:00 +1000

In this mini episode I wanted to share with you three things that I believe really help to support you in navigating the transition into motherhood, particularly in the early years around achievement and completion.

In my personal experience and support of Mothers, I noticed that previously in the workforce we were focused on productivity, KPI's and completion outcomes. This is often not the case in Mothering, we make deposits into this tiny human that we may not see an outcome of until years later, leaving us with a feeling of tension because the loop of completion is never finished.

Moving from a culture that really defines achievement and productivity and worth through the completion to finding opportunities that bring some of that sense of accomplishment into your daily life as a Mother, and viewing our worth differently.

Discover more over at:

https://www.nikkimccahon.com

Activate your Female Power with Sharon Moloney

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 04:00:00 +1000

In this episode I chat with fertility therapist, birth educator, menstruation ambassador, hypnotherapist, author and speaker Sharon Moloney. Sharon was a benedictine nun, who left the monastery after experiencing major health issues, leading her to learn and embrace the female body as her path to spirituality.

In this episode we talk about:
- why it is more important that we're women rather than surrogate men
- the sacred opportunity we have every month as women to bring our wisdom to our homes, families, communities and the world
- the collective vision we can all hold together to radically shift the scales of power into a more harmonious balance

Sharon has written a book called ‘Activate your Female Power’ where she shares incredible wisdom about the female body, sexuality, childbirth and menstruation.

This is a really juicy episode also covering women's studies, the patriarchy, embodiment, spiritual practice of menstruation, the medicalisation of menstruation, birth and menopause.

Sharon website: https://sharonmoloney.com

Activate your female power book: https://sharonmoloney.com/book/

Discover Matrescence: https://courses.nikkimccahon.com/discovermatrescence

Special Episode: The Seasons of Matrescence™

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 13:00:00 +1000

In this special mini episode I wanted to share with you a model I have developed, that I believe can help you navigate the many different transitions and transformations we will navigate in our lives as mothers; The Seasons of Matrescence™.

I have developed the seasons of matrescence as a conceptual map for navigating the transition to and through motherhood, based on my experience supporting mothers, my own experience as a mother and through my knowledge and understanding of matrescence, adult development, rites of passage and the innate wisdom of seasons and cycles.

I have been teaching the concept of cycles and seasons through my Alignment program and it forms a big part of my upcoming teacher training program (coming early 2022).

I have created a little visual and some reflection questions to help you identify which season of matrescence you are currently navigating and begin reflecting on the gifts and challenges of the season you're in. You can find the free guide here: https://courses.nikkimccahon.com/seasonsofmatrescence

Teacher Training waitlist: https://courses.nikkimccahon.com/som

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikkimccahon

Fertility, conception and hormones with Rach Condon

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 05:00:00 +1000

In this episode I speak with Rach Condon nutritionist and women's health specialist, after experiencing her own challenges with the contraceptive pill and absent periods, Rach went on a journey to understand and heal her hormonal issues. This resulted in huge shifts, leading her to support other women to do the same.

In this episode we talk about:

How to prepare your body for pregnancy
Some of the common challenges women experience with hormones, fertility and periods
The MTHFR gene mutation and how this can affect conception

She offers 1:1 support for fertility and period problems, and works with women who are preparing for pregnancy, experiencing PCOS, endometriosis, hormone or conception challenges. She also offers menstrual education with her cycle charting courses.

Find Rach here:
https://www.rachcondon.com

https://www.instagram.com/rachael.condon/

Find Nikki here:
https://courses.nikkimccahon.com/som

https://www.nikkimccahon.com

Matrescence Tale - Jen Butler | three children, identity, achievement in motherhood

Mon, 06 Sep 2021 05:00:00 +1000

In this episode of the Dear Mama Project I chat with Circle of Security Parenting Facilitator and all round Early Parenting Support Wonder-Woman Jen Butler.

At the time of recording Jen was 31 weeks pregnant with her third child so we dived into the reflections of becoming a first time Mum and how moving into it for a third time, hindsight has gifted her more love and compassion for the shifts that are about to happen.

Jen shares with us the validation she felt upon hearing about the word Matrescence for the first time and how it perfectly described her journey into Motherhood, unpacking the issue of identity as a Mother and reflecting on how it impacted Jen's sense of self, questioning her feelings of who she was as a woman, mother and wife.

We also talk about the fact that the work of Mothers can feel utterly invalidating because the completion loop never reaches accomplishment... from this Jen shares the most liberating thing a Mum can come to realise.

Jen Butler https://www.jenniferbutler.com.au/home-page
Jen Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jenbutlerearlyparenting/

Nikki instagram https://www.instagram.com/nikkimccahon/
Discover Matrescence https://courses.nikkimccahon.com/discovermatrescence
Alignment https://courses.nikkimccahon.com/alignment
Website https://www.nikkimccahon.com

'Mum Brain' - how your brain changes through pregnancy and parenting with Dr Jodi Pawluski

Tue, 24 Aug 2021 05:00:00 +1000

In this episode I speak with Jodi Pawluski, a neuroscientist, psychotherapist and mother of 2.

For more than 15 years, her research has focused on the neuroscience of motherhood and the effects of maternal mental illness and antidepressant medications on mother and offspring. She regularly speaks nationally and internationally about her research findings as well as the fascinating effects of motherhood on the brain.
Dr Pawluski is passionate about increasing our understanding of the amazing things our brains do when we parent. You can find her talking more about this with other leading researchers in the field on her podcast Mommy Brain Revisited.

In this episode we explore the way our brains are changed and shaped through pregnancy and parenting. I find this topic incredibly fascinating, and I hope that you enjoy it too!

Jodi website www.jodipawluski.com

Jodi Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mommybrain.revisited/

Nikki instagram https://www.instagram.com/nikkimccahon/
Alignment https://courses.nikkimccahon.com/alignment
Morning ritual e-book https://courses.nikkimccahon.com/morning-ritual
Website https://www.nikkimccahon.com

Re-release: Tips for managing tough days

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 05:00:00 +1000

In this episode I share my favourite tips for managing tough days. We all have tough days, but it's much easier when we have strategies and practices we can call on to help us through.

Register for the FREE Matrescence & Self Compassion Masterclass here: https://courses.nikkimccahon.com/freemasterclass

Share your insights & takeaways from the episode here:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikkimccahon/

Website: https://www.nikkimccahon.com
Alignment waitlist: https://courses.nikkimccahon.com/alignmentwaitlist

The importance of processing birth trauma & grief with Dr Erin Bowe

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 05:00:00 +1000

Dr Erin is a clinical psychologist and mother, who specialises in birth grief and trauma. Bowe speaks from her own experience of having two births that did not go according to plan and how this shifted her work and focus to help women and their families in this under-supported area. In this episode Dr Bowe cleans up the confusion of what trauma actually means and even though she didn't want to be the poster girl for birth trauma she shares her unique perspectives on the importance of processing the grief.

With alarming rates of up to one in three Australian women having experienced birth trauma and one in 10 women who emerge from childbirth with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) I delve into the impact experienced by our partners and support people, with Dr Bowe giving some key takeaways on how to hold yourself with compassion + love. We also talk about Erin's new book 'More Than A Healthy Baby'.

Dr Erin Bowe
Website: https://doctorerin.com.au/
Book: More Than A Healthy Baby - Birth Trauma Book

Nikki
Website: https://www.nikkimccahon.com
Alignment waitlist: https://courses.nikkimccahon.com/alignmentwaitlist
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikkimccahon

Healing Trauma, The Fourth Trimester and Sex with Kimberly Johnson

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 05:00:00 +1000

In this episode I chat to Kimberly Johnson about how women truly need to be supported in the fourth trimester, sex and intimacy after having children as well as her forthcoming book Call of The Wild.

Kimberly Johnson is a Sexological body worker, somatic body practitioner, yoga teacher, post partum advocate and solo Mama, author of The Fourth Trimester, she works hands on in women's integrative health helping women heal from sexual trauma and birth injuries.

Hear her passion for spreading awareness of Mothers putting their own needs first as well as opening up the conversation about sex and intimacy after children, Kimberly flips the paradigm to ask us what it actually looks like being able to receive sex that fuels and gives us more energy?

A truly inspiring and expansive dicussion!

Kimberly:
Website: https://kimberlyannjohnson.com
Inner Jaguar course: https://kimberlyannjohnson.com/activate-your-inner-jaguar/
Call of the wild book: https://www.booktopia.com.au/call-of-the-wild-kimberly-ann-johnson/book/9780062970909.html
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimberly.ann.johnson/

Nikki
Website: https://www.nikkimccahon.com
Alignment waitlist: https://courses.nikkimccahon.com/alignmentwaitlist
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikkimccahon /

Matrescence, the perfect mother myth and my story - my chat with The Early Parenting Podcast

Thu, 04 Mar 2021 05:00:00 +1000

This episode is from a chat I had with Jen Butler from the Early Parenting Podcast, check out Jen's podcast here and her website here.

Alignment my group coaching program is open now - you can find all the details and join here.

Matrescence Tale with Kris Byrnes // becoming a step mother, finding yourself after motherhood

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 05:00:00 +1000

5 day Journaling Challenge - join here

Alignment group coaching program - waitlist here

Feeling uninspired, bored or that your sense of self is eclipsed by motherhood? Two simple strategies for more fun, joy, inspiration and connection

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 05:00:00 +1000

5 day Journaling Challenge - join here

Alignment group coaching program - waitlist here

Supporting traditional Maori birth and postpartum practices with Hannah Martin

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 05:00:00 +1000

Full show notes: https://nikkimccahon.com/podcastepisodes/s2e15

Website: ww.nikkimccahon.com

Postpartum Matters with Rachelle Garcia Seliga of Innate Traditions

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 05:00:00 +1000

Find the full show notes here: https://www.nikkimccahon.com/podcastepisodes/s2e14

'What Kind of Woman' - interview with Kate Baer

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 05:00:00 +1000

In today's episode I’m chatting with Kate Baer, Kate is an author and poet based on the East Coast of America, who has just released her debut book ‘what kind of woman’ which became an instant New York Times bestseller.

Website: https://www.katebaer.com

Booktopia (australia): https://www.booktopia.com.au

Morning rituals e-book: https://courses.nikkimccahon.com/morning-ritual

Body Image for Mums with Dr Zali Yager

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 09:02:00 +1000

Full show notes: www.nikkimccahon.com/podcastepisodes/43

Website: www.nikkimccahon.com

Cocooned postpartum guide: https://courses.nikkimccahon.com/cocooned

Matrescence Tale - Steph Trethewey | Identity Change, Career Changes, Rural Living, Relationships

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 05:00:00 +1000

Full show notes: www.nikkimccahon.com/podcastepisodes/42

Find Steph here: the motherland podcast.

Discover Cocooned here: https://courses.nikkimccahon.com/cocooned

Matrescence Tale - Dannii Reed | Single Motherhood, Dating, High Risk Pregnancy and Personal Growth

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 05:00:00 +1000

For the full show notes visit the website: www.nikkimccahon.com/podcastepisodes/41

"Cocooned": https://courses.nikkimccahon.com/cocooned

How Astrology can help us understand our little ones with Brooke Macqueen from Various Friends

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 05:00:00 +1000

Full show notes: https://www.nikkimccahon.com/podcastepisodes/40

Matrescence Tales - Sarah Marie Fahd

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 05:00:00 +1000

Todays episode is a matrescence tale with Sarah Marie Fahd. Sarah Marie is a make-up artist and commentator on Channel Ten’s Googlebox and during the episode I chat to Sarah Marie about her own transformation and growth through becoming a mama.

Sarah Marie and her husband welcomed her son Malik in 2019, and little Malik makes a special appearance in the episode.

You can find Sarah Marie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahmariemakeup/?hl=en

Scary Thoughts? You're Not Alone with Dr Caroline Boyd

Mon, 19 Oct 2020 05:00:00 +1000

**Trigger warning** discussion of intrusive, unwanted and distressing harm thoughts about baby.

In today’s episode I’m interviewing Dr Caroline Boyd, a clinical psychologist and expert on intrusive harm thoughts experienced by mothers. Dr Caroline has completed research on the prevalence of unwanted, intrusive harm thoughts amongst new mothers, and found accidental harm thoughts (something happening to baby) are almost universal amongst new mothers and 1 in 2 mothers experience unwanted intentional harm thoughts.

Dr Caroline Boyd’s research showed that whilst these thoughts are incredibly common, talking about it isn’t, and that can add to the distress experienced. My intention in sharing this episode is to open up a conversation about this in the hope that doing so will help break the stigma and allow you to start talking about this within your own support networks and with the mothers you know.

In the episode I talk to Caroline about her research including:

What intrusive/harm thoughts are
Carolines research regarding the prevalence of unwanted harm thoughts amongst new mothers
The ‘perfect mother myth’ and how this contributes to our experience of unwanted harm thoughts
How to manage harm thoughts and intrusive thoughts
When and how to seek help

You can reach Dr Caroline Boyd at https://drcarolineboyd.com/ where she offers video therapy or through Instagram @_drboyd where she writes about harm thoughts and parenting.

Website can be found here: https://www.nikkimccahon.com/podcastepisodes/38

Caroline also wanted to mention that dads also experience intrusive thoughts, at a slightly lesser degree than mothers.

If this episode has brought up any concerns for you, or if you are of help and support, please visit your GP or contact:

Australia: PANDA Hotline: 1300 726 306 and website: https://www.panda.org.au

United Kingdom: PaNDAs - 0808 1961 776 and website: https://pandasfoundation.org.uk

United States of America: Postpartum Support International: 1800 944 4773(4PPD) and website: https://www.postpartum.net

In case of emergency:

Australia: 000

United Kingdom: 999

United States of America: 911

Misunderstandings of Miscarriage with Tahyna MacManus

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 05:00:00 +1000

In today's episode I chat to Tahyna MacManus about her new documentary 'Misunderstandings of Miscarriage' - available now on STAN.

Full show notes: https://www.nikkimccahon.com/podcastepisodes/37

The Women's Mysteries with Jane Hardwicke Collings

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 09:00:00 +1000

Find the full show notes here: https://www.nikkimccahon.com/podcastepisodes/36

Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikkimccahon/

Revolution from Home with Beth Berry

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 05:00:00 +1000

Find the show notes: www.nikkimccahon.com/podcastepisodes/35

Mini episode | Matrescence (part 02) - moving through matrescence

Sun, 20 Sep 2020 10:22:00 +1000

Show notes: www.nikkimccahon.com/podcastepisodes/34

Mini Episode | Matrescence (part 01) - it's ok to change

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 05:00:00 +1000

Becoming waitlist: https://courses.nikkimccahon.com/becoming

Show notes: www.nikkimccahon.com/podcastepisodes/33

Connect with me over on instagram https://www.instagram.com/nikkimccahon/

Website: www.nikkimccahon.com

Relationship After Baby with Trish Purnell-Webb

Mon, 07 Sep 2020 05:00:00 +1000

In today's episode I chat with Relationship expert Trish Purnell-Webb about all things relationships.

For the full show notes visit: www.nikkimccahon.com/podcastepisodes/32

Connect with me over on instagram https://www.instagram.com/nikkimccahon/

PCOS, Hormone Health, Period Positivity and Fertility with Brigitte Warne

Mon, 11 May 2020 12:13:00 +1000

In today’s episode I’m chatting to Bridgett Warne who is the founder of PCOS to Wellness her popular instagram page and blog, and the creator of Cysterhood and Mamahood teas.

In this episode Bridget and I talk about her experience with PCOS and how it led her to embarking on a journey to better understand hormone health and wellbeing. We also chat about the hormone health, the pill, period positivity, fertility and the common things on our plates and in our homes that can disrupt our hormones.

Enjoy listening to this week's podcast, grab a screen shot and tag me @nikkimccahon and Bridgette @PCOS_to_wellness and let us know what you took away from the episode.

www.nikkimccahon.com

https://www.pcostowellness.com

www.instagram.com/pcos_to_wellness

Pregnancy and Postpartum Recovery with Physio Laura

Mon, 04 May 2020 05:00:00 +1000

In today's episode I’m chatting to Laura Callea also known as Physio Laura, a women's health physiotherapist the owner and founder of the Pregnancy Posse.

I asked Laura to come on the podcast and chat to me about some of the sides of pregnancy and postpartum that aren’t talked about - like changes to sex and sensation and pelvic floor weakness. This episode is full of lot’s of practical advice on postpartum recovery, what to do if you are experiencing incontinence or weakness of pelvic floor muscles and tips for intimacy post babies.

Our bodies do so much for us, and our little ones and I hope that this episode helps you to remember that looking after our physical bodies is a much needed act of self care and a way of looking after your future self.

https://www.bethanywebster.com

Physio Laura website: https://physiolaura.com

Physio Laura instagram: https://www.instagram.com/physiolaura/

Healing the Mother Wound with Bethany Webster

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 05:00:00 +1000

In today’s episode we’re exploring the mother wound with Bethany Webster. Bethany is a writer, transformational coach and international speaker. Her work has filled a crucial gap in our understanding of women’s lives by blending cutting-edge research on intergenerational trauma, feminist theory, and psychology to comprehensively define the Mother Wound.

Bethany’s website:

Bethany’s book - ‘Discovering the Inner Mother’ pre-order:

https://www.indiebound.org/book/9780062884442

Inner Mother Course

https://www.bethanywebster.com/inner-mother-course/

Please get in touch and let me know what you took away from today's episode - you can find me @nikkimccahon on Instagram and my website is https://www.nikkimccahon.com

Postnatal depletion, the gifts of matrescence and COVID with Dr Oscar Serrallach

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 14:18:00 +1000

In todays episode I'm chatting to Dr Oscar Serrallach, a functional medicine doctor and leader in maternal care. Dr Oscar is the author of "The Postnatal Depletion Cure -
A Complete Guide to Rebuilding Your Health and Reclaiming Your Energy for Mothers of Newborns, Toddlers, and Young Children".
We chat about Postnatal depletion, how to support new mothers, maternal values and COVID.

Check out the book + Dr Oscar's website here.

Connect with Dr Oscar on Instagram here.

Today's episode is sponsored by Dockatot, With thousands of 5-star reviews, the patented DockATot is specially shaped to reinvent the wombDear Mama listeners can enjoy 15% off by using the code "DEARMAMA" at checkout.

If you'd like to connect with me you can check out the website and connect with me over at Instagram.

Managing Our Mindset During COVID and Isolation with Cass Dunn

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 05:00:00 +1000

In today’s episode I’m chatting to Cass Dunn, a clinical psychologist and coach about strategies and tools we can use for dealing with the current COVID situation. We talk about how people might be feeling, ways we may try to cope and helpful tools we can use to support ourselves as we navigate these unchartered waters.

I hope you enjoy today’s episode, and if it does help you I’d love to hear from you - you can find me @nikkimccahon on instagram.

Here are the links to find Cass and her programs:

Website: https://cassdunn.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cassdunn_xo

Beyond Happy monthly program: https://cassdunn.com/beyondhappy-waitlist/

If you’re enjoying listening to the podcast it would mean the world to me if you could take a moment to leave a quick written review on iTunes. Leaving a written review really helps the podcast get seen by more mums who need to hear these conversations and I really appreciate your help in spreading the word. If you do leave a written review, grab a screen shot and DM it to me on instagram and I will send you a little gift as a thank you.

Motherhood, emotions and breathwork with Nicola Laye

Mon, 16 Mar 2020 13:13:00 +1000

Welcome to episode 26.

Now is really the time to practice self compassion, and self-care, and empathy, and kindness.As parents, we might be feeling a lot of feelings right now, things might be changing around us right now in terms of our daily routines, we might be supporting vulnerable others around us like grandparents or friends in vulnerable groups, it’s really, really important that we are taking care of ourselves as much as we possibly can right now. The little people around us don’t know or really understand what is going on in the world, and they pick up on our energy, so trying to make sure we’re looking after ourselves, looking after our nervous system and really practicing all of the things we have been talking about on this podcast - mindfulness, self love, self compassion, self-care, empathy, kindness, seeing ourselves as all connected will help all of us get through this.

I’m going to make sure I share lots of self-care and self-compassion tips over on Instagram in the coming weeks, so be sure to head over to instagram to stay connected - I am @nikkimccahon

I feel like today’s episode is really fitting, I’m talking to Nicola Laye a breathwork faciliator, pregnancy wellness and womens health coach. In this episode we chat about Nicola’s own motherhood journey, breathwork and how we can use breath to move through emotions, we chat about anger, finding your tribe of friends and how tricky this can be sometimes. I feel like you will love the tips on how we can use breath to move through challenging emotions and experiences and the open discussion around anger.

Nicola Laye:

www.instagram.com/nicola_laye

https://www.nicolalaye.com

www.nikkimccahon.com

www.instagram.com/nikkimccahon

Matrescence Tale - Sophie Walker | birth, self-care, business ownership

Mon, 09 Mar 2020 05:00:00 +1000

In today’s episode I speak to Sophie Walker, the founder and host of Australian Birth Stories.

In the episode we chat about Sophie’s experience becoming a mother of 3 beautiful boys, what her transition into motherhood has been like, what inspired her to create Australian Birth Stories and the ups and downs of starting and running a business whilst raising a little family. I absolutely loved chatting to Sophie, and we have some really awesome chats about emotions, self-care and anger.

I hope you enjoyed listening to this week's episode, and if you did I would love to hear from you, you can find me @dearmamaproject on instagram - I’d love to hear from you.

Australian Birth Stories

Australian Birth Stories website : https://www.australianbirthstories.com

Postpartum Life After Birth: https://www.australianbirthstories.com/postpartum-life-after-birth

Postpartum - Discovering Motherhood: https://www.australianbirthstories.com/postpartum-discovering-motherhood

ABS Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/australianbirthstories/

Website: www.nikkimccahon.com

Matrescence Tale - Marcia Leone | Not So Mumsy the book, Infertility, Social Media, Business Ownership

Tue, 03 Mar 2020 05:00:00 +1000

In today’s episode I’m chatting to Marcia Leone, the founder of @notsomumsy a community for modern mothers and @notsomumsythelabel - a gorgeous lounge wear and accessories line designed to give back.

Today marks the official launch of Marcia’s book, aptly named “Not So Mumsy” - The book was created to honour the journeys of women as they progress through motherhood, and focuses on empowering mamas to do things their way. The book includes a collection of stories, witty quips and illustrations, expert tips and helpful links that cover pregnancy, birth and the first year all tackled from our perspective as mothers and the journey we are going through.

In today’s interview Marcia chats to us about her on motherhood journey and experience of Matrescence, the ups and downs of having a social media profile whilst navigating her own motherhood challenges and the process of creating the book and her business.

I hope you enjoy listening to this weeks Matrescence Tale, as always I love continuing the conversation over on Instagram, so grab a screenshot of the episode and tag me I am @dearmamaproject or send me a DM - I love hearing from you!

Links to Marcia's new book "Not So Mumsy":

Booktopia link

Book depository link

Not So Mumsy website: https://www.notsomumsy.com

Not So Mumsy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcialeone_/

Dear Mama Project instagram: www.instagram.com/nikkimccahon

Dear Mama Project website: www.nikkimccahon.com

Intention - how daily + moment to moment intentions can bring more presence + joy

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 08:49:00 +1000

In today’s episode, I wanted to share a really simple, but super powerful concept that has helped my mental and emotional health, but also had a really positive impact on the people around me - intention, and specifically setting intentions for your day, and creating intentions throughout the day as you move between tasks and roles. This is a tool that has really helped me, and continues to be something I consciously work on and I think you’re going to love it too.

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikkimccahon.com

Website: www.nikkimccahon.com

Intimacy, Sex and Self Care in Motherhood with Sexologist Juliet Allen

Mon, 17 Feb 2020 05:00:00 +1000

This week I am interviewing Juliet Allen, Australia’s leading sexologist. Juliet is the host of the Authentic Sex podcast, owner and creator or Pleasure School and Juliet Allen sex wands.

I invited Juliet onto the podcast to chat about some of the most common sex and intimacy issues that we experience as women and mothers. We cover some really big topics, this might be a podcast best listened to away from your little ones - as you’ll hear in the interview there was a point where Juliet literally had me lost for words!

Juliet's website: https://www.juliet-allen.com

Juliet's instagram: https://www.juliet-allen.com

ABC:https://www.abc.net.au/life/pregnancy-discrimination-what-to-do/10378212

Enjoying the podcast? Please leave me a quick written review, it means the world!

See you next week x

Judgement - a tool for self love?

Mon, 10 Feb 2020 05:00:00 +1000

In today’s episode I’m going to be talking about the concept of judgement as a tool for self love - and how by changing our relationship with the way we judge ourselves and other people we can create huge shifts in our own self worth, our relationships with other people and our ability to live our life on purpose, and not let fear of judgement hold us back.

Judgement - of ourselves and others is rife in parenting, and can be a source of pain for many. In this episode I share my own personal journey as a practicing reformed “judger” and explain how I now use judgement as a tool for self love and understanding myself better.

Matrescence Tales - Tracy Harris | maternal wall, workplace discrimination, business ownership, anxiety and stress.

Mon, 03 Feb 2020 05:00:00 +1000

Hello and welcome back to the podcast!

I’m kicking off our first episode this year with a Matrescence Tale, with the beautiful Tracy Harris from Mums With Hustle. I first met Tracy when she was a guest speaker at a Mama Tribe event that we ran, she absolutely blew me away on the night when she shared her experience of self-care and mental health, she has so much wisdom in this area born through her own motherhood journey.

In this chat Tracy is really open, honest and super brave, sharing her experience of returning to work postpartum, as you’ll hear in the interview Tracy was treated very poorly by her employers and this had a drastic effect on her mental health and confidence.

Tracy went on to experience severe stress and anxiety, and was driven to create drastic change after realising the impact it was having on herself, her body, her family and the next baby she hoped to have. The experience became the catalyst for her creating Mums With Hustle - a business based on supporting mothers to grow their own successful businesses that give them flexibility and freedom to have both worlds - a family and a career.

Tracy’s story opens up some really big questions about the ways women are supported to return to work, and bias towards working mothers. A massive thank you to Tracy for sharing her story so openly, I know that this conversation will help many mothers who have experienced discrimination in the workplace to feel less alone and encourage us all to make noise when we see unfair treatment.

I hope you enjoy this interview, if you do jump over and show Tracy some love.

Connect with Tracy:

Website: https://mumswithhustle.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mumswithhustle

Resources:

Fair Work Australia: https://www.fairwork.gov.au

Raising Children: https://raisingchildren.net.au/pregnancy/preparing-for-a-baby/work/pregnancy-work-rights

Connect with Nikki:

Website: www.nikkimccahon.com

If you’re enjoying the podcast, please leave a written review on iTunes to support my work - it really helps the podcast reach more mamas who need it, and inspires me to producing content for you! Thank you x

2020 Update - big learnings, study + whats in store for Dear Mama

Mon, 03 Feb 2020 05:00:00 +1000

Super excited to be back for 2020! Here is a quick update on what has been happening and whats ahead for myself + the Dear Mama Project this year.

Please forgive the audio quality on this episode, my computer accidentally recorded from the inbuilt mic, but in the spirit of not promoting perfection I've forged ahead with it.

Thank you for all the love, I really appreciate it and can't wait to bring you some new and interesting content in 2020!

Connect with Nikki:

Website: www.nikkimccahon.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikkimccahon/

Question and Answer - mindset, self care, high expectations, relationships and favourite books

Mon, 25 Nov 2019 05:00:00 +1000

I'm ending our last episode for 2019 with a Q&A, answering the FAQs I received when I put a call out on Instagram.

The questions are:

What is the number 1 thing I have done to achieve a healthier mindset?

How to let go of high expectations of yourself in motherhood?

How do I find time for self care?

How do you keep your relationship together when you have no time?

What are your favourite books and resources that have helped you?

A HUGE thank you for all of your love, support and listening in 2019 - I have been so overwhelmed by the respons to the podcast and I'm looking forward to taking some down time so I can continue creating helpful and inspiring content in 2020.

I'm wishing you an a restful and restorative Christmas and New Year break and can't wait to connect in 2020, I have a feeling it's going to be an amazing year!

Stay in touch with me via Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikkimccahon/

If you have enjoyed the podcast this year, I would be really grateful if you could leave a written review on iTunes - thank you!

See you next year!

Matrescence Tales - Jamila Rizvi | bonding, friendship, equality, maternity and paternity leave, mothers as change agents

Mon, 18 Nov 2019 05:00:00 +1000

In this weeks episode I had the total pleasure of chatting to Jamila Rizvi. Jamila is Editor-at-Large of the Nine Network’s Future Women, weekly columnist for the Sydney Morning Herald and the age and a regular commentator on The Project, Today and Q and A. She previously worked in politics for the Rudd and Gillard Governments, advising on issues including media, women, child care, and employment.

She's written two incredible books - 'Not Just Lucky' - a career manifesto for the millennial woman, and one of my all time favourite motherhood books "The Motherhood" - a collection of short letters from women about their experiences of new motherhood.

It was such a pleasure to chat to Jamila, and I was blown away by how warm, funny, honest and whip smart she is. We chatted about a range of topics including her experience as a new mum, the pressure to be "in love" with your baby straight away, the power of female friendships, equality for women in the workplace, social issues affecting mothers and her incredible book the Motherhood.

You can find Jamila:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/jamilarizvi

Website: https://www.jamilarizvi.com.au

Books: https://www.jamilarizvi.com.au/writing

Connect with me:

Website: www.nikkimccahon.com

*If you're enjoying the podcast, hit subscribe so you don't miss an episode. If you'd like to make my day, you can leave a written review on the Apple Podcast app or iTunes on desktop. Thank you :) xx

Self Worth and Self Kindness with Dr Rebecca Ray

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 05:00:00 +1000

In today's episode I chat with Dr Rebecca Ray, a clinical psychologist and author of three books; The Art of Self Kindness, The Universe Listens to The Brave and Be Happy: 35 Powerful Habits for Personal Growth and Wellbeing.

During the episode we chat about worthiness, how our worthiness wounds can be formed, how to identify them and how to start changing the stories we have in our minds. Then we chat in depth about the importance of self-kindness, particularly in parenting and Rebecca provides some practical advice on how you can begin practicing self kindness today.

EPISODE LINKS:

Dr Rebecca Ray Instagram: www.instagram.com/drrebeccaray

Website where you can find Rebecca's books, courses and daily musings: https://rebeccaray.com.au

Adore Your Cycle with Claire Baker

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 05:00:00 +1000

My guest today is Claire Baker, a period coach - yep, thats a thing! Claire teaches women how to live in sync with their menstrual cycle. In this episode she walks us through the "seasons" of your cycle - just like we have four different seasons in the year, our cycles experience four distinct cycles - some weeks we have all the energy, feel confident and clear, other weeks we feel introverted, low energy and need to rest. Claire shows us a simple way to predict how you'll be feeling at any point, and encourages us to honour the stage we're in.

Claire Baker website: https://www.clairebaker.com/cycle-coach

Claire Baker Instragram: https://www.instagram.com/_clairebaker_

Steph Pase - 2020 Planner: https://www.stephpaseplanners.com.au

Nikki's website: https://www.nikkimccahon.com

https://www.birthtrauma.org.au

Matrescence Tales - Nadine Muller | Birth Trauma, Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG)

Mon, 28 Oct 2019 05:00:00 +1000

In today’s episode I’m going to be chatting with Nadine Muller, a beautiful mum of two boys - Madden who is 4 and Beckham who is four months old. I want to give you a heads up that this is not a light episode, Nadine experienced what can only be described as intense birth trauma with her second birth, and she is still working her way through her experience. I want to place a little warning on the episode for anyone who has experienced their own birth trauma that this episode is pretty raw and nadine is incredibly vulnerable about her experience.

Support services:

Australasian Birth Trauma Association

PANDA

https://www.panda.org.au

1300 726 306

COPE (Centre of Perinatal Excellence)

https://www.cope.org.au

INSTAGRAM

Nikki's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikkimccahon/

Nadine Muller Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nadinemuller/

Navigating Friendships in Motherhood

Mon, 21 Oct 2019 05:00:00 +1000

In today's episode we chat about friendships - why they're important, how they change over time, what makes a good one, how to find new ones and how to let go of ones that aren't working.

I hope you enjoy this episode, come say hey on Instagram and let me know what you took away from the episode www.instagram.com/dearmamaproject

If you're loving the content, subscribe so you don't miss an episode and leaving me a written review on iTunes will make my day.

Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.nikkimccahon.com

Website: https://www.instagram.com/nikkimccahon/

Tips for surviving hard days

Mon, 14 Oct 2019 05:00:00 +1000

In this episode I share my favourite tips for managing tough days, because as mamas, they're going to happen and it's helps to have some tools in our 'tough day toolbox'.

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nikkimccahon/
Website https://www.nikkimccahon.com

Conscious Anger - why we need to stop suppressing anger and start processing in healthy ways

Mon, 07 Oct 2019 05:00:00 +1000

In this episode I chat about how as mums we are often suppressing our feelings and emotions, particularly anger and frustration and why this is really unhealthy for us - mentally, emotionally, physically. In this episode I talk about the importance of processing emotions, and what can happen if we don't.

Topics covered include:

Types of Anger

Suppressing anger

Transference of anger

Healthy ways to process anger and emotions

This is a big episode, and I'd love to continue the conversation over on Instagram - come say hey I'm https://www.instagram.com/nikkimccahon/

Visit the website: https://www.nikkimccahon.com

If you're enjoying the show, please leave a written review and subscribe so you don't miss and episode!

Matrescence - the developmental experience and spiritual awakening of motherhood with Aurelie Athan PH.D

Sun, 29 Sep 2019 05:00:00 +1000

In today’s episode I’m interviewing Aurelie Athan, a psychologist and faculty member at Teachers College, Columbia University in New York. Aurelie is a leader in the study of the term “Matrescence” - Matrescence like adolescence, is a stage of human physical, psychological, social, and spiritual development.

The word “Matrescence” - was originally coined by Dr Dana Raphael, an anthropologist, who was also responsible for the development of the word “doula”. Aurelie found the term “Matrescence” when she was looking for explanatory models to explain the psychological transition into motherhood and has since championed the resurgence of the word and has devoted her career to studying the transition women experience through motherhood.

I am a big, big fan of Aurelie’s work and have a lot of admiration for her, you will probably pick up on the interview that I was very excited and a little nervous to speak to her. During the interview we chatted about her discovery of the word and her development of programs within the university to study it, before deep diving into Matrescence and exploring the spiritual opening and transformation motherhood brings.

If you enjoyed this episode please share it with a friend, leave a written review on iTunes and subscribe - this all helps me spread the message and reach more mamas who need it - thank you!

I’d love to continue the conversation about this episode over on Instagram, come share your thoughts: https://www.instagram.com/nikkimccahon/

More information at the website: https://www.nikkimccahon.com

Resources mentioned in the episode:

Aurelie website: https://www.matrescence.com

Lisa Miller Ted Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7c5t6FkvUG0

Searching For Balance - the importance of living in our own values, quitting comparison and practicing radical self-care

Mon, 23 Sep 2019 06:00:00 +1000

In this episode I chat about our quest for balance and share my personal experience with finding more calm and self-care amongst the inevitable imbalance motherhood brings.

Topics covered include:

Balance - is reaching for a constant "perfect" balance making us feel worse?

The importance of understanding your values and making choices about where you spend your time and energy

Comparison and sitting with discomfort

Ensuring you are the top priority (or at the very least a top priority)

This is a big episode, and I'd love to continue the conversation over on Instagram - come say hey I'm https://www.instagram.com/nikkimccahon/

Visit the website: www.nikkimccahon.com

If you're enjoying the show, please leave a written review and subscribe so you don't miss and episode!

Matrescence Tales - Holly Brunnbauer | career, business ownership, not bonding immediately, becoming a mum of two

Mon, 16 Sep 2019 06:00:00 +1000

In this interview I chat with Holly Brunnbauer from @motherhoodmelbourne and @facingmotherhood about her experience with becoming a mama. Holly is so funny, down to earth and open, you're going to be nodding and laughing all episode. We cover not bonding to your baby straight way, what happens to your career, how motherhood can lead to discovering your true passions and values and dealing with complex feelings towards your kids (you always love them, but sometimes you might not like them or enjoy parenting).

Motherhood Melbourne Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/motherhoodmelbourne/

Facing Motherhood Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/facingmotherhood/

Nikki Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikkimccahon/

https://programs.cassdunn.com/mbp-instant/

PANDA Hotline: 1300 726 306

Centre of Perinatal Excellence (COPE) website: http://cope.org.au

Please leave a written review and subscribe if you're loving the podcast so you don't miss an episode.

Working On Worthiness Out Loud with Revie Jane Schulz

Mon, 09 Sep 2019 06:00:00 +1000

In today’s episode I’m chatting with Revie Jane Schulz, wife, mother-of-two, entrepreneur, lifestyle influencer, writer and public speaker.

I was lucky enough to hear her speak on her Purpose tour, where she shared her own journey of working on worthiness and self love out loud. Revie is so dedicated to her message of inspiring women and talking about tough topics, to normalise mental health and the challenges we all face. I really loved having the chance to chat with her and as you’ll see in the podcast she had me crying in the first 5 mins. I hope you enjoy this chat as much as I did!

Revie Jane Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviejane/

Revie Jane website: https://reviejane.com

Postpartum Identity + Mum Guilt with Dr Nicole Highet, Founder and Executive Director at COPE

Mon, 02 Sep 2019 06:00:00 +1000

In this episode I sit down with Dr Nicole Highet, the Founder and Executive Director of the Centre of Perinatal Excellence, also known as COPE. COPE is a not-for-profit organisation devoted to reducing the impacts of emotional and mental health problems in the pre and postnatal periods.

During the interview we talk about perinatal mental health conditions, statistics around perinatal mental health in Australia, the work COPE are doing to support mums. We then talk in depth about identity loss/ confusion post partum, why it happens and how we can support reconnecting to parts of ourselves again. We end the interview with a chat about mum guilt, and how we can question some of the standards that we are conditioned to believe mothers need to meet.

Links mentioned during the episode:

COPE website: https://www.cope.org.au

Free Ready to COPE guide: https://www.cope.org.au/readytocope/

*****

I'd love to hear your take aways from this episode and continue the conversation on Instagram, come say hey at: https://www.instagram.com/nikkimccahon/

Matrescence Tales - Steph Pase | social anxiety, drinking culture, PND and postpartum recovery

Mon, 26 Aug 2019 05:58:00 +1000

The first in a series of interviews with mums sharing their experiences of becoming a mama.

In this interview I chat with Steph Pase from @justanothermummyblog. Steph openly shares her experience of new motherhood, social anxiety, drinking culture, post natal depression, changing friendships and working through her own challenges to find new healthy friendships.

Steph website: https://justanothermummyblog.com

Steph Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justanothermummyblog/

PANDA Hotline: 1300 726 306

Centre of Perinatal Excellence (COPE) website: http://cope.org.au

Create your own morning ritual

Fri, 16 Aug 2019 10:59:00 +1000

In this solo episode I chat about my own experience with creating a morning ritual and how it has benefited my wellbeing and provide some tangible tips on how you can create your own ritual.

This episode comes with a bonus - a free 'create your own morning ritual' e-book, which you can download when you subscribe to the Dear Mama Project newsletter. Grab your copy here: https://courses.nikkimccahon.com/morning-ritual

During the episode I mention some of my favourite morning yoga stretches on Youtube, here is the link to my fave: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4pKly2JojMw

I'd love to hear your take aways from this episode and continue the conversation on Instagram, come say hey at: https://www.instagram.com/nikkimccahon/

Mindfulness and Meditation with Cass Dunn

Fri, 16 Aug 2019 10:49:00 +1000

I'm so excited to kick off the Dear Mama podcast with this practical and inspiring episode covering all things mindfulness and meditation.

I'm joined by Cass Dunn, a clinical and coaching psychologist, mindfulness and meditation teacher and a mum of one 13 year old girl. During the episode we chatted about the science of mindfulness meditation (it will blow your mind!), how to get started, common challenges and we even sneak in a little chat about mum guilt and social conditioning.

Cass has kindly offered all Dear Mama listeners a special offer on her My Mindfulness for Busy People course. It’s an 8-week online course that teaches the theory and practice of mindfulness in a simple, step by step format and in a way that can be done anytime and anywhere. Use the code DEARMAMA (one word) to take $50 off the course fee.

I'd love to hear your take aways from the episode and continue the conversation on Instagram, come say hey over at: