Have you ever found yourself explaining your parenting choices a little too much?

…Not because someone attacked them, but because something inside you felt the need to justify?

In this episode of The Parenthood and Relationship Podcast, we explore what’s really happening beneath those subtle moments of parental defensiveness

… the guilt, the identity shifts, and the deep desire to feel like we’re doing enough.

Through a real-life story of two moms at a school gate - one working full-time, one a stay-at-home-mom (SHAM) - we unravel how easily conversations about “what’s best for the kids” become reflections of our own insecurities.

I reveal how matrescence (the psychological transition to motherhood) reshapes identity and why every comment about parenting choices can feel personal.

But more importantly, I guide you through 3 steps to soften the sting of comparison.

Because when we can meet ourselves with kindness, other people’s choices stop feeling like threats.

Today we explore:

👉 Why we defend our parenting choices and what we’re really trying to prove.

👉 The link between mom guilt, identity shifts, and societal pressure.

👉 Three practical tools to stop feeling judged and start feeling secure.

👉 How self-compassion transforms comparison into connection.

If you’ve ever felt that quiet pit in your stomach after hearing how another parent does things differently, this episode will feel like a deep exhale.

There is no perfect way to parent.

There's only your way, done with presence and compassion.

👇👇👇

Download these resources I mentioned for [Free]

👉 Matrescence Video Series

👉 Calm Parent, Calm Child Guide

👉 Self-Connect Calendar

–-

🔔 Subscribe for more parenting insights 📩 Join my [FREE] newsletter for extra support 📢 Share this with a parent who needs to hear it!

--- Full Transcript HERE. — Want to take our relationship to the next level? 👉Here are my top Resources 👉 Link to my Newsletter 👉 Join the Reconnect with Your Partner Challenge

📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! ---

Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach www.markellakaplani.com