After 10 years of motherhood, I’m really glad I did some things in those first few weeks, and plenty I’d do completely differently.

Nothing can quite prepare you for becoming a mother. Those early weeks can be full of love and joy while also feeling exhausting, overwhelming and completely identity-shifting. I certainly wasn’t prepared for the emotional whiplash of holding all of those feelings at once.

In this special episode, created in partnership with Tesco Fred & Flo, I’m looking back at my first experience of new motherhood and sharing what I got right, what I learnt the hard way and what I wish I’d known before having a baby.

We talk about setting boundaries with visitors (including my one rule that I still think was genius!), why new mothers need care rather than being expected to host, and the huge identity shift of matrescence that I knew absolutely nothing about when I had my first daughter.

I also share how the mental load began creeping into my relationship almost without us noticing, and the practical change my husband, Guy, and I made to create a more equal division of parenting and household responsibilities. Plus, I share the newborn essentials I genuinely found useful, what I spent time and money on that I probably wouldn't again, and some very practical tips for making those sleep-deprived early weeks a little easier.

Because when you're adjusting to life with a new baby, recovering from birth and trying to work out who you are now, the last thing you need is more pressure.

• What I wish I’d known about new motherhood and matrescence

• How to set boundaries with visitors after having a baby

• How to stop the mental load becoming yours by default

• The newborn essentials I actually used, and what I wouldn't bother with

• Why asking for and accepting help matters so much postpartum

Watch every full episode on YouTube and subscribe.

This episode is created in partnership with Tesco Fred & Flo, whose newly refreshed range of everyday baby essentials is designed to make those early days a little easier. You can discover the range in Tesco stores and online, and Tesco Clubcard members can currently get 4 for 3 across the range.

Exclusions apply. Clubcard event ends 7th September 2026. Clubcard or app required. Delivery charges may apply.

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• Get Zoe’s Sunday Times bestselling book, 'Motherkind: A New Way to Thrive in a World of Endless Expectations’