The Mental Load of Motherhood: Why It’s Crushing Us and How to Change It with Ava’s Laura Cunningham

Let's Thrive Postpartum: Overcoming Postpartum Depression and Anxiety

The mental load of motherhood is more than just a to-do list. It is the invisible, relentless work of running a household, managing family life, and carrying the emotional weight of it all. And for moms already navigating postpartum depression or anxiety, this load can feel crushing.

In this episode of Let’s Thrive Postpartum, Kelly Siebold sits down with Laura Cunningham, CEO and co-founder of Ava, an AI-powered household concierge designed to lighten the cognitive and emotional burden of modern parenting.

Together, they unpack why the mental load feels so heavy, how decades of societal change have stacked expectations on mothers, and how technology can give moms back time, energy, and peace of mind.

You’ll learn:

• What the mental load really is and how it impacts maternal mental health, relationships, and child wellbeing.
• How societal and cultural shifts over the past 75 years have made modern motherhood overwhelming.
• Why simply asking for help isn’t enough and how to rethink support systems.
• How AI tools like Ava can take real tasks off your plate and help you reclaim your time.

You’ll leave with validation, hope, and practical ideas for reducing your mental load so you can focus on what matters most.

Learn more about Ava at hiava.xyz.

Support is just one click away - check out these additional resources designed to support your postpartum mental health:

• Download our free Postpartum Mental Health Plan https://wethrivepostpartum.com/postpartum-plan/
• Learn more about Thrive Postpartum’s virtual support for pregnant and postpartum moms, including virtual support groups, education, expert-led events, and a supportive community of moms who understand your journey https://wethrivepostpartum.com/join
• Email us with a question or postpartum topic you want us to discuss at [email protected]
• Hit subscribe to never miss an episode.