When Victoria Vanstone became a mum, she thought she was prepared. She imagined she’d simply add a baby to her already lovely life, pop them in a sling and carry on being herself.
That wasn’t quite what happened.
In this first episode of MAMA, Vic shares the messy, funny and emotional reality of becoming a mother, from carefree party girl to overwhelmed new mum struggling with anxiety, identity loss and the enormous responsibility of keeping a tiny human alive.
She talks honestly about the pressure to be a “good mum”, the loneliness that can hide behind smiling family photos, and the relentless mental load that so many mothers carry in silence. She also explores how alcohol slowly became her coping mechanism, not because she loved drinking, but because she was desperate for a way to switch off.
Together, we’ll unpack the myths of modern motherhood, why so many women feel like they’re failing when they’re actually doing an incredible job, and why reaching for a glass of wine can sometimes be a sign that something deeper needs attention.
If you’ve ever wondered where the old you disappeared to, questioned whether those “mummy reward wines” are really helping, or felt like everyone else got the parenting handbook except you, this episode is for you.
No judgement. No perfection. Just an honest conversation about the motherhood plot twist nobody saw coming, and the reassurance that you’re far from alone.
About MAMA
MAMA (Motherhood. Alcohol. Mental Health. Anxiety.) is a special podcast series from Sober Awkward, created to complement the Healthy Mum Healthy Bub program.
Developed in partnership with researchers from The University of Sydney and supported by funding from the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF), MAMA aims to help mums feel less alone, more informed and better supported as they navigate the challenges of early motherhood.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, struggling with anxiety, or questioning the role alcohol plays in your life, you’re in the right place.
Healthy Mum Healthy Bub
https://www.sydney.edu.au/matilda-centre
Sober Awkward
Podcast, books, courses, community, events and support
Victoria’s Books
Mumming - A Year of Trying (and Failing) to be a Better Parent - https://amzn.asia/d/08E0CLyS
A Thousand Wasted Sundays - https://amzn.asia/d/0eK3l8Bd
Sober Awkward Retreats
Join Victoria and the Sober Awkward community for alcohol-free retreats, workshops and unforgettable adventures in Australia and overseas.
Find out more at:
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