With an MBA, running her own start-up that raised Venture Capital funds and 20 years of business experience (including 10 in tech), Sam thought she was ready for anything—late nights, early mornings, no problem. She’d worked until midnight and joined 6 a.m. meetings for years. But nothing could have prepared her for the reality of motherhood. 

Pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum, and parenting hit her harder than she ever imagined. From battling hyperemesis and frequent trips to the infusion clinic, to a traumatic birth that involved blood transfusions, Sam faced it all. Postpartum anxiety and rage only added to the struggle, making parenting feel like an overwhelming challenge.

It was like reverse habit stacking—one tough experience piling on top of another. Despite having friends with kids, no one truly prepared her for how hard each stage would be. She believes that if she had heard more stories of others facing similar struggles, she wouldn’t have felt so isolated in her darkest moments. 

Having given birth during the pandemic, Sam found that many parents of young kids shared her sentiments—it was far harder than expected. 

Now, she’s determined to share these stories to make the transition to parenthood easier for others.