54. Catching up with Dr. Polly van den Berg

Summary

In this conversation, Ali and Polly reflect on the past year since their last chat, discussing personal growth, work-life balance, and the challenges of parenting. Polly shares her experiences with returning to work, navigating childcare, and the impact of illness on their family. They delve into the pressures of the medical profession, the importance of mental health support, and the benefits of couples therapy. The discussion also touches on family planning and the considerations that come with it, particularly in light of Polly's husband's health. Overall, the conversation highlights the complexities of parenting, relationships, and self-care.

Takeaways

• Polly has experienced significant personal growth over the past year.
• Finding a balance between work and family life is crucial for well-being.
• Childcare can provide valuable socialization and learning opportunities for children.
• Illnesses in daycare can be challenging but are often part of the experience.
• The pressure to show up in the medical field can lead to neglecting personal health.
• Therapy and support systems have been vital for Polly's mental health journey.
• Communication is key in maintaining a healthy relationship, especially during stressful times.
• Considering family size involves weighing personal desires against practical realities.
• The experience of parenting can evoke nostalgia and a desire for more children.
• It's important to discuss and normalize the challenges of postpartum mental health.

Keywords
parenting, mental health, work-life balance, childcare, couples therapy, family planning, postpartum anxiety, child development, daycare challenges, personal growth

Chapters
00:00
Reflecting on Growth and Change

02:45
Finding Balance in Work and Family Life

05:44
Navigating Childcare and Developmental Milestones

08:50
The Challenges of Illness in Daycare

11:29
The Pressure to Show Up in Medicine

14:20
Mental Health Journey and Support Systems

17:28
Couples Therapy and Communication

20:36
Considering Family Size and Future Plans