The Mother Of It All
What We Have To Learn From Other Mothering Animals with Helen Jukes
May 12, 2025
Helen Jukes, a British author known for her work 'Mother / Animal,' joins to explore the fascinating connections between motherhood in the animal kingdom and human experiences. They discuss the diversity of maternal practices among species, challenging traditional notions of 'natural' motherhood. From the brutal realities of animal birthing to the emotional complexities of parenting, Jukes illustrates how nature can illuminate our own struggles and expectations. This insightful conversation redefines motherhood as an interconnected journey, urging a broader understanding of nurturing.
57:38
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Quick takeaways
- Motherhood is a complex and collaborative experience, challenging the notion that success relies solely on individual capability and self-sufficiency.
- Insights from animal parenting behaviors encourage human mothers to rethink societal expectations, revealing the diversity and shared roles in nurturing across species.
Deep dives
The Pressure of Motherhood and Self-Sufficiency
The podcast delves into the societal pressures surrounding motherhood, particularly the expectation that a good mother must manage everything herself, including breastfeeding. The speaker reflects on her own experience, where she initially believed breastfeeding was a solo endeavor that needed to be perfected without external help. This idea was challenged when she learned about the collaborative nature of breast milk, which is filled with microorganisms that aid in infant health. The perspective shifts to acknowledge that motherhood is inherently about seeking help and support, rather than a testament to an individual's capability.
