In this episode, I dive into my journey of becoming a mother, reflecting on the mix of emotions, fears, and self-doubts that came with it. I talk about the struggles I faced around maintaining relevance in my career, especially in business, and how pregnancy and motherhood are often seen as things we should downplay or avoid bringing up in professional settings. There's this pressure to not let these life changes affect how we're perceived, and I explore how that impacts us as women. I also get into the unrealistic beauty standards imposed on pregnant women—how much emphasis is placed on our appearance, the pressure to stay a certain size, and the expectation to look ‘effortlessly’ perfect while navigating such a major life shift. It's a lot to deal with on top of everything else, and I believe it's time to shift the focus and be kinder to ourselves during such an intense physical and emotional transition. On top of that, there’s this constant pressure to have life all sorted out before becoming a mom—that your career, finances, and personal life should be perfectly aligned. But the truth is, motherhood doesn’t wait for that perfect moment to happen. It arrives while life is still unfolding, and it’s messy, unpredictable, and beautiful. And that’s okay. This episode is deeply personal, as I reflect on how I’ve had to challenge long-held beliefs, confront identity shifts, and come to terms with the fact that success and motherhood can absolutely coexist. It’s about navigating this complex journey, letting go of unrealistic expectations, and finding confidence in the chaos, even when nothing feels certain. I hope you’re feeling inspired, cause we’re rooting for you! xx Julie —- Podcast Episode Mentioned: The Mel Robbins Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5EDFD1avnXWXoov8kCgrtT?si=c2c428edcf6448f5 I would like to “pass on the goodwill” @birgitkasper @signeskriver and @sandralinne to the team of @thefemaleeffect. Keep up with The Female Effect: 📸 Instagram: @thefemaleeffect_ 🚀 TikTok: @thefemaleeffect 🌍 Linkedin: @The Female Effect Image: Alana Ocaño Artwork: Birgit Käsper Jingle: Søren Haahr This episode is sponsored by AllMatters - Period Care for Women: I asked and AllMatters answered - giving The Female Effect listeners an exclusive discount! Use code FemaleEffect15 at when you purchase any product, whether a period disc a cup, period panties or any other period care - to get 15% OFF. Additional, if you stack it with their bundle discounts, you can actually start your journey of safe, responsible and comfortable period care with up to 40%! My name is Julie Lou, and I find it absolutely magical when women support and uplift each other as allies. This is the magic I refer to with the title of my podcast, "The Female Effect." Every other Thursday, I invite a woman into the studio who, in her own way, is making a difference for other women and using her voice and talents to make a positive impact on the world. I hope you feel inspired, because we're rooting for you! With love, Julie Lou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
