Encore: Matrescence – Unraveling the Myths and Realities of Motherhood with Lucy Jones

About this sermon

Today we’re revisiting the profound biological, psychological, and social shifts experienced when becoming a mother—a process known as matrescence. Jen Hatmaker sits down with science journalist Lucy Jones, who shares her powerful personal story of identity transformation after the birth of her first child. Together, they unpack groundbreaking neuroscience research and challenge the myths and unrealistic expectations surrounding modern motherhood. In this episode: • What matrescence really means and why it matters • The hidden impact of cultural myths and idealized images of motherhood • How societal neglect of maternal mental health leaves women isolated • Why we need better narratives, rituals, and community care for mothers Thought-provoking and compassionate, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating the messy, beautiful terrain of motherhood—or supporting those who are. Quote from Lucy Jones: “Matrescence is a very simple concept that means the process of becoming a mother… a mother is born when a baby is born. But your identity, your social relationships, your roles, your everyday life, your mind, your psychology, and your emotions also change.” Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Matrescence by Lucy Jones – https://bit.ly/4dDYI83 Foxes Unearthed by Lucy Jones – https://bit.ly/44E9Uxp Losing Eden by Lucy Jones – https://bit.ly/4byVO2k Dana Raphael (American Anthropologist) – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dana_Raphael “The Birth of a Mother” by Alexandra Sacks (NYT article) – https://bit.ly/4bow0WK 2017 NIH Study on Pregnancy and the Brain – https://bit.ly/3UAGiMK Of Woman Born by Adrienne Rich – https://wwnorton.com/books/Of-Woman-Born/ Andrea O’Reilly (Motherhood scholar) – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andrea_O'Reilly Guest’s Links: Lucy’s Website: lucyfjones.com Lucy’s X: @lucyjones Instagram: @lucyfjones Facebook: Lucy Jones Books Connect with Jen! Jen’s Website - https://jenhatmaker.com/ Jen’s Instagram - https://instagram.com/jenhatmaker Jen’s Twitter - https://twitter.com/jenHatmaker/ Jen’s Facebook - https://facebook.com/jenhatmaker Jen’s YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/JenHatmaker The For the Love Podcast is presented by Audacy.