Listen "S5 E17: Matrescence, healing and purpose with Danielle Lauren, The Way Too Honest Mom"
Episode Synopsis
This week on Bump to Business Owner, I’m joined by Danielle Lauren, creative powerhouse, former media exec, and founder of Way Too Honest, a business born from the depths of postpartum struggle and radical maternal honesty. From working at the top of global media giants like CNN and Reese Witherspoon’s Hello Sunshine, to battling severe pre- and postnatal depression, Danielle opens up about her experience of motherhood, identity loss, and rebuilding a life and business with purpose. TRIGGER WARNING: Discussion of pre/post natal depression and suicidal thoughts Takeaways: The identity shift of matrescence and why it’s so misunderstood Danielle’s experience with perinatal mental health crisis and life-saving support in Australia The mismatch between external “success” and internal struggle Launching Way Too Honest: affirmation cards for new mums that blend compassion and humour The loneliness of entrepreneurship, finding support, and redefining productivity Letting go of guilt, embracing slow growth, and learning to rest Why honesty in motherhood isn't just cathartic, it can save lives Resources: Maternal Mental Health Alliance: https://maternalmentalhealthalliance.org/ The Room Where It Happens: https://theroomwhereithappens.co.uk/ Chapters: 01:00 Introduction to Danielle Lauren and Her Journey 03:41 From Media to Motherhood: A Career Transition 06:28 The Reality of Motherhood: Expectations vs. Reality 09:09 Identity Shift: The Transformation of Becoming a Mother 11:57 Navigating Mental Health in Motherhood 14:57 The Importance of Compassion and Sisterhood Among Mothers 23:01 The Hidden Struggles of Motherhood 28:29 Anxiety and the Reality of Pregnancy 31:47 The Impact of Mental Health on Motherhood 37:36 Launching Way Too Honest: A New Venture 41:45 Balancing Motherhood and Entrepreneurship 46:05 Understanding Maternal Mental Health 48:39 The Journey of Recovery 51:21 Innovative Ideas in Motherhood Support 55:01 Asking for Help: A Crucial Step 59:38 Rediscovering Joy in Everyday Life Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ About Danielle Lauren Danielle Lauren is an accomplished creative force and now founder of a beautiful business that brings light and truth to one of the most misunderstood chapters of motherhood. Danielle Lauren is the founder and CEO of Way Too Honest, a brand that creates affirmation and support cards for new mums navigating the fourth trimester, also known as matrescence. Backed by endorsements from Katherine Ryan, Lucy Jones, Zoe Blaskey and Dr. Ellie Cannon, and for every box sold, a donation goes to the Maternal Mental Health Alliance, helping to drive meaningful change in perinatal mental health. Prior to launching her business, Danielle was a powerhouse in the media and tech industries, working as VP of Story for Reese Witherspoon's Hello Sunshine, Innovation Ambassador at Warner Media, and Head of Content Strategy at CNN. She's spoken at global events from Harvard to TEDx with a deep focus on AI, Web3, and the future of storytelling. But as we'll hear today, it was Danielle's own journey through a devastating postpartum period and identity shift that fueled her desire to create her business. Danielle Lauren’s Links: Website: https://www.waytoohonest.co/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@waytoohonestmom Instagram (Way Too Honest Mom): https://www.instagram.com/waytoohonestmom/ Instagram (Way Too Honest): https://www.instagram.com/waytoohonest.co/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/