The Hardest Part of Parenting No One Talks About

Motherhood is changing for Abby Wambach and Julie Foudy and this might be one of the most vulnerable conversations they’ve had yet.

In this special episode of Welcome to the Party, Abby, Julie, and Billie Jean King reflect on parenting, “mothering” beyond biology, and the emotional reality of raising kids who are learning to leave home. Abby opens up about preparing for empty nesting, why it feels strangely similar to retiring from professional sports, and how therapy is helping her navigate this next chapter. Julie shares the challenges of trusting teenagers to become independent adults, while Billie Jean King reflects on mentoring generations of athletes and why “mothering” can come from anyone.

The conversation explores parenting, identity, therapy, trust, stepparenting, chosen family, youth independence, and the emotional transition of watching your children grow up. Plus, the hosts react to powerful clips from BetterHelp’s Motherhood With You series and discuss the balance between helping your kids and learning when to let go.

This episode is presented in partnership with BetterHelp and features conversations around mental health, parenting, motherhood, empty nesting, therapy, family dynamics, and personal growth.

00:00 Thank You BetterHelp
01:11 The Many Forms of Motherhood
02:26 Glennon’s Definition of Mothering
03:21 Billie Jean King as the “Fairy Godmother” of Women’s Sports
06:59 Abby on Becoming a Bonus Parent
10:45 BetterHelp’s Motherhood With You Series
20:08 Julie on Trusting Her Kids
23:06 Empty Nesting & Motherhood Identity
29:00 Therapy, Parenting & Showing Up Better

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Keep the Party Going:

Therapy can be life changing, especially when it comes to understanding yourself and how you care for others. Our special episode on motherhood and mental health is brought to you by BetterHelp. If you're interested in therapy, learn more at betterhelp.com/welcometotheparty

Watch the Betterhelp videos on Youtube: youtube.com/@BetterHelp/videos

Thank you to BetterHelp for sponsoring this episode.