Share

cover art for #284 | MATRESCENCE WITH A NEURODIVERSE DIAGNOSIS | WITH NICOLE AMERY

Happy Mama Movement with Amy Taylor-Kabbaz

#284 | MATRESCENCE WITH A NEURODIVERSE DIAGNOSIS | WITH NICOLE AMERY

Season 1, Ep. 289


Welcome to this week’s episode of The Happy Mama Movement Podcast.


This week’s guest is Nicole Amery.

With over 20 years of experience as a registered Occupational Therapist, Nicole is a Motherhood Coach who specializes in supporting neurodivergent families. She is passionate about helping mothers and caregivers as they navigate the unique challenges of raising neurodivergent children.


We talk about:

  1. The importance of supporting mothers in neurodivergent families and how this positively impacts the child.
  2. Nicole's personal experiences as an autistic mother and how it informs her approach to parenting.
  3. The concept of postnatal depletion and autistic burnout and the effects it has on mothers like herself.
  4. The journey to redefining womanhood and motherhood, and how Nicola has reframed these roles in her own life.
  5. Moving through grief and coming to accept our Neurodiverse situation: to better cope and and even thrive on this parenting journey.


I hope this conversation resonates with you, and if it does, please spread the word so more mothers can find the encouragement and resources they need to flourish.


ABOUT NICOLE AMERY:

Nicole Amery is a registered Occupational Therapist and Motherhood Coach with a wealth of experience in supporting neurodivergent families. As an autistic mother of three neurodivergent girls, she brings a unique perspective to her work, deeply influenced by her own experiences of postnatal depletion and burnout. Nicole is dedicated to empowering mothers to navigate their own journeys of self-discovery and redefinition, providing compassionate support for those balancing motherhood with the complexities of neurodivergence.


RESOURCES:

More episodes

View all episodes

  • 297. #293 | THE POWER OF MATRESCENCE GATHERINGS | WITH LUCY EDGE

    34:49||Season 1, Ep. 297
    Welcome to this week’s episode of The Happy Mama Movement Podcast!Today, we’re joined by Lucy Edge, a mother, entrepreneur, and the co-founder of Mum Talks.Lucy is a motherhood coach and Mother Circle facilitator dedicated to helping mums feel seen, heard, and supported through every stage of their journey.We talk about:The heartfelt story behind Mum Talks and Lucy’s drive to create a space where mums can thrive.How motherhood transformed Lucy’s perspective and inspired her to support other women.The importance of building community and connection for mums navigating life’s changes.Practical tips for mums to find balance, support, and confidence in their daily lives.The vision behind Mum Talks’ Ambassador Programme and how it’s creating a ripple effect of empowerment for mums nationwide.I hope you feel inspired by this conversation. If you do, please share it with other mums in your circle. Together, we can create a world where every mother has the support she needs to flourish.ABOUT LUCY EDGE:Lucy Edge is a mother, a business owner, a motherhood coach, and a Mother Circle facilitator who is passionate about supporting and empowering mums through their motherhood journey. After experiencing the challenges of early motherhood herself, Lucy recognized a gap in support for mums in Ireland and decided to do something about it.In 2017, she co-created Mum Talks, an event company and community that provides practical advice, expert insights, and heartfelt connections for mums from pregnancy through to post-maternity leave and beyond. With the recent launch of their Ambassador Programme, Lucy and her team are expanding the reach of Mum Talks, ensuring more mums across Ireland have access to the support and solidarity they need.RESOURCES:Website: www.mumtalks.ieInstagram: @mum_talksEmail: hello@mumtalks.ieInterested in becoming a Mum Talks Ambassador? Email: Ambassador@mumtalks.ie
  • 296. #292 | HOW CYCLE AWARENESS IS CHANGING THE WORLD FOR WOMEN | WITH ALEXANRDA POPE & SJANIE HUGO WURLITZER

    48:55||Season 1, Ep. 296
    Show Notes for Alexandra Pope & Sjanie Hugo WurlitzerWelcome to this week’s transformative episode of The Happy Mama Movement Podcast!Today, we’re joined by two revolutionary thinkers in women’s health and spirituality, Alexandra Pope and Sjanie Hugo Wurlitzer, co-founders of Red School and co-authors of Wild Power and Wise Power. Together, they’re pioneering the field of menstruality, helping women unlock the hidden gifts of their menstrual cycles and navigate the profound transition of menopause with newfound authority and purpose.We explore:The groundbreaking concept of menstruality and its transformative potential for women’s health and leadership.How the menstrual cycle serves as a guide for creativity, well-being, and spiritual growth.Insights from their latest book, Wise Power, on menopause as a path to awakening.The psycho-spiritual journey from menarche to menopause and its impact on our lives.Practical ways to embrace and honor your cycle to unlock personal power.I hope this conversation inspires you to connect more deeply with yourself and your inner rhythms. If you find it valuable, please pass it along to others so they too can discover the empowering insights we share today. Let's spread this vital knowledge far and wide!ABOUT ALEXANDRA POPE & SJANIE HUGO WURLITZER:Alexandra Pope and Sjanie Hugo Wurlitzer are the visionary co-founders of Red School, a global platform revolutionizing how we understand menstrual health and leadership. They’ve spent over 45 years collectively researching the psychological and spiritual power of the menstrual cycle, co-authoring the celebrated books Wild Power and Wise Power. Through their work, they’ve spearheaded a new lexicon of menstruality, helping women and menstruators reclaim their inner authority and purpose. Alexandra and Sjanie are deeply committed to training the menstruality leaders of the future.RESOURCES:Website: Red SchoolInstagram: @red.schoolBooks:Wild Power: Discover the Magic of the Menstrual Cycle and Awaken the Feminine Path to PowerWise Power: Discover the Liberating Power of Menopause to Awaken Authority, Purpose, and BelongingTune in and embrace the power of your cycle—it’s time to reclaim your wisdom!
  • 295. #291 | TAKE THE MIC | THE EXPECTATIONS OF LIFE AFTER BABIES | WITH KATHERINE HALE

    22:04||Season 1, Ep. 295
    Welcome to this week’s episode of The Happy Mama Movement Podcast!Today, Katherine Hale, the inspiring founder of Thrive in Motherhood, takes the mic.Katherine is on a mission to empower ambitious career women in early motherhood to reconnect with themselves, prioritize their well-being, and find harmony in their dual roles as professionals and mothers. Through her transformative “REACT” framework, Katherine helps women go from surviving to thriving in just eight weeks while also working with organizations to foster inclusive, supportive workplaces for mothers.Katherine talks about:Katherine’s complex journey through motherhood and how matrescence completely reshaped her life.The transformative power of acknowledging the emotional complexities of motherhood and why these feelings deserve more conversation.The difficulties of "lockdown" and how this time affected her and her feelings about the perfect mother she thought she was meant to be.Why Katherine believes society needs to prioritize supporting women during their transition to motherhood and how Thrive in Motherhood is leading the charge.This conversation is packed with wisdom, personal insights, and actionable takeaways. I hope it inspires and empowers you to reflect on your own journey. If you find this episode helpful, please share it widely so we can continue building a community of support for mothers everywhere.ABOUT KATHERINE HALE:Katherine Hale is the founder of Thrive in Motherhood, a coaching practice dedicated to supporting high-achieving mothers through the challenges of early motherhood. Her innovative REACT framework enables mothers to regain control of their time, emotions, and health, allowing them to thrive both personally and professionally. A passionate advocate for change, Katherine also collaborates with organizations to create inclusive cultures that prioritize the health and well-being of working mothers.After her personal transformation through the process of matrescence, Katherine turned her own challenges into a mission to help other women navigate the incredible—and sometimes overwhelming—journey of motherhood. She lives in Hampshire with her husband, three children, and two chickens and loves fostering optimism and resilience in all areas of her life.RESOURCES:Instagram: @thrive_in_motherhoodFacebook: Thrive in MotherhoodLinkedIn: Katherine Allt (Maiden Name)To learn more about Katherine’s work and her REACT framework, visit her website: Thrive in Motherhood.Enjoy the episode, and don’t forget to share it with anyone who might benefit from Katherine’s powerful insights!
  • 294. #290 | HOW TO HOLD ON TO HOPE, NO MATTER WHAT | WITH ALISON BEDER SOLWAY

    31:25||Season 1, Ep. 294
    Welcome to this week’s episode of The Happy Mama Movement Podcast!Today we’re joined by Alison Beder Solway, an inspiring debut author, fitness expert, and founder of ABS Fitness.Alison's work is built on the idea that hope is a conscious choice, one rooted in strength and resilience. With a background in environmental policy, teaching, and fitness, Alison brings a unique perspective to empowering women in both body and mind. Her debut memoir, The Miles We Run, offers readers a deeply personal look at her journey navigating surrogacy, fertility, and marathon training—all experiences that underscored her belief in the strength of hope and perseverance.We talk about:Holding Gratitude: Finding resilience and doing what we need to do during the hardest motherhood moments.How Alison’s experiences with surrogacy and fertility have shaped her understanding of endurance and strength.Her unique philosophy of hope as a “brave and deliberate decision,” and how this outlook has guided her work and personal life.The mental and physical preparation involved in training for the New York City Marathon and the life lessons she’s drawn from it.Insights from her upcoming memoir, The Miles We Run, exploring the relationship between physical strength, mental endurance, and overcoming life’s biggest challenges.I hope Alison’s story offers you new insights and motivation. If it resonates with you, please share this episode with others so that mothers everywhere can gain the support and encouragement they need.ABOUT ALISON BEDER SOLWAY:Alison Beder Solway is an author, fitness expert, and founder of ABS Fitness, an online platform dedicated to supporting women’s health and empowerment. With a Master’s degree in Environmental Management and a background in policy and teaching, Alison has continually dedicated herself to helping others, especially through her focus on the mental and physical connection in her fitness programs. Her memoir, The Miles We Run, recounts her journey with surrogacy, fertility, and marathon training, all of which taught her profound lessons about hope, resilience, and personal strength.RESOURCES:Website: The Miles We RunInstagram: @themileswerunTwitter: @arianebeestonThe Miles We Run Blog: Sign up hereIf you’re interested in exploring Alison’s fitness work, visit ABS Fitness and follow along on social media at @absfitnessca.
  • 293. #289 | WHAT TRADITIONAL CULTURAL PRACTICES CAN TEACH US AS NEW MAMAS | WITH SHRADHA BIYANI

    32:28||Season 1, Ep. 293
    Welcome to The Happy Mama Movement Podcast!Today’s episode brings a truly insightful conversation with Shradha Biyani, an editor, book writing coach, and the visionary founder of Tashi Press. With her unique blend of journalism training and a Master’s degree in Urban Planning from Harvard University, Shradha helps writers articulate impactful narratives. She has worked with numerous publishing houses, including Pan Macmillan, Westland Books, and Penguin Random House, and her workshops and coaching embody her passion for storytelling, language, and the power of shared human experiences.We talk about:A Pyramid of Mothers: Early life in India and the strong support for new mothers, from the many mothers in the community.New Mothers need to heal: The essential focus on healing and well-being during the first period of motherhood.The "Great Loss" in Modernity: How New Mothers are surviving without strong support and community care, and how this has affected modern motherhood.Community Strength: Building strong relationships and creating a community of support available to everyone.Passing down values: Being a good role model and educating the next generation about the power of communityI hope today’s episode gives you practical insights and inspiration, and if you find it valuable, please share it to help other mothers access the support and wisdom they need.ABOUT SHRADHA BIYANI:Shradha Biyani is an editor, book writing coach, and founder of Tashi Press. Trained as a journalist with a Master’s degree in Urban Planning from Harvard University, Shradha’s career bridges the worlds of narrative and urban studies. She has collaborated with major publishers like Pan Macmillan, Westland Books, and Penguin Random House to guide authors through every step of their creative journey. Her workshops combine her love for urban anthropology and her understanding of migration stories, creating a space where emerging and seasoned writers alike can flourish. Shradha is dedicated to helping storytellers connect with readers in impactful, lasting ways.RESOURCES:Website: Tashi PressLinkedIn: Shradha BiyaniInstagram: @tashipressOffers: If you’ve been considering writing a book and could use some guidance, feel free to book a free connect call with Shradha at tashipress.com/contact.
  • 292. #288 | THE CESAREAN EPIDEMIC AND WHAT IT MEANS FOR US | WITH RACHAEL SOMERSTEIN

    40:44||Season 1, Ep. 292
    Welcome back, Mamas, to this week's episode of The Happy Mama Movement Podcast!Today, we're joined by Rachel Somerstein, a powerhouse in maternal health journalism and the author of Invisible Labor: The Untold Story of the Cesarean Section. Combining personal stories, investigative research, and historical insights, Rachel’s work seeks to drive essential conversations around c-sections and maternal health.We in-depth on:The ups and downs: in her motherhood journeyThe Unseen Side of C-Sections: Rachel shares the profound and often overlooked realities surrounding cesarean sections, which are the most frequently performed operation worldwide. Changing the narrative: The societal and medical structures that impact maternal well-being and how storytelling can influence systemic change.I hope this conversation leaves you feeling informed and empowered. If you found it valuable, please share it to help mothers everywhere access the support and information they deserve.ABOUT RACHEL SOMERSTEIN:Rachel Somerstein is the author of Invisible Labor: The Untold Story of the Cesarean Section (Ecco 2024), a groundbreaking book that investigates the history and nuances of c-sections through a unique blend of memoir, research, and reporting. Her work has appeared in The Boston Globe, The Guardian, Longreads, The Washington Post, Women’s Health, and more, and she has been featured on NPR. With a PhD in mass communications and an MFA in creative writing, Rachel is committed to using narrative and rigorous research to elevate critical discussions on maternal health. She is currently an associate professor of journalism at SUNY New Paltz.RESOURCES:Website: www.rachelsomerstein.comLinkedIn: Rachel SomersteinInstagram: @rachelesomerstein
  • 291. #286 | TAKE THE MIC: HOW MATRESCENCE SUPPORTS OUR DAUGHTERS | WITH JADE ESTELLE

    21:15||Season 1, Ep. 291
    Welcome to another empowering episode of The Happy Mama Movement Podcast!In today’s session, we’re diving deep into the sacred feminine journey with the wonderful Jade Estelle.Jade is a Feminine Space Holder and Rites of Passage Coach, specializing in menstruation, matrescence, and menopause.She brings a beautiful and restorative approach to embracing the feminine, and today we explore her work in guiding women of all ages to reconnect with themselves and honour their life cycles.Here’s what we cover:The Power of Rites of Passage: How Jade helps women navigate key life transitions such as menstruation, motherhood, and menopause with grace and awareness.The Motherhood Journey: Jade shares her motherhood experience with her two children.Exhaustion, Postnatal Depression and Anxiety: The weight of motherhood and the light inside.Discovering Matrescence: How Jade came upon matrescence and the huge impact it had on her life and outlook..Girl Becoming: Exploring the Rite of Passage around womanhood and her program, to guide and support woman of all ages.I hope today’s conversation inspires and uplifts you. If you found it valuable, don’t hesitate to share it so more mothers can access this nurturing support and wisdom!ABOUT JADE ESTELLE:Jade Estelle is a Feminine Space Holder, Rites of Passage Coach, and Yoga & Embodiment Teacher who specializes in supporting females of all ages through significant life transitions. Whether it’s menstruation, matrescence, or menopause, Jade provides deep healing through womb connection, movement, and rituals. She is passionate about empowering women to embrace their self-worth, nourish their bodies, and feel a sense of community. Jade’s mission is one of service, providing education to young girls, healing feminine bodies, and fostering connection through breath and movement.RESOURCES:socials: @jadeestelleyoga website: jadeestelle.comemail: jadeestelleyoga@gmail.com
  • 290. #285 | MAKING THE MOTHERSHIFT | WITH JESSIE HARROLD |

    43:50||Season 1, Ep. 290
    Welcome to another heartfelt episode of The Happy Mama Movement Podcast! Today, I’m thrilled to dive into a meaningful conversation with Jessie Harrold. Jessie has dedicated over fifteen years to guiding women through profound transformations and life’s pivotal rites of passage. As a coach, doula, and author, her insights are bound to resonate with mothers at every stage of their journey.We explore:The Transition to Motherhood: Jessie unpacks the concept of matrescence and how it redefines motherhood as a rite of passage.The MotherSHIFT : Learn about Jessie’s experience around motherhood, her new book, and how she supports women to find 'solid ground' in a fragile system..The Loss of Identity: Jessie shares personal insights on understanding the struggle within the greater social context.The Hurdles ahead: What challenges mothers and women have yet to face and how we can best be poised to overcome them..Our modern mindset around motherhood: How we have held the role of motherhood and where its placed now, and what to do next.I hope this conversation brings you inspiration and insight. If you feel it might help another mama on her journey, please share it so we can continue to build a supportive community for mothers everywhere.FULL YOUTUBE PRESENTATION HERE: https://youtu.be/ziiaR-Nx9VkABOUT JESSIE HARROLD:Jessie Harrold is a coach and doula who has been supporting women through radical life transformations and other rites of passage for over fifteen years. She works one-on-one with women and mothers, facilitates mentorship programs, women’s circles, and rituals, and hosts retreats and nature-based experiences. Jessie holds degrees in Neuroscience and Health Promotion, with award-winning research published internationally. She’s also the author of Mothershift: Reclaiming Motherhood as a Rite of Passage and Project Body Love. She lives on the east coast of Canada, where she mothers her two children, writes, and stewards the land.RESOURCES:Website: www.jessieharrold.comInstagram: @jessie.es.harroldEmail: jessie@jessieharrold.comCatch Jessie's previous episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/ep-145-the-liminal-space-in-motherhood-with-jessie-harrold/id1203707859?i=1000487939343