Ep 272: Motherhood Isn't A Job - It's A Relationship - Interview With Hannah Olson

Motherhood isn’t diapers, snacks, and never-ending laundry — that’s caregiving. And while caregiving is hard, it’s not the same thing as being a mom.

In this conversation with Hannah Olson, we break down the difference between the two and why this shift in language can lift so much of the guilt and pressure moms feel.

We get into:

• Why “motherhood is hard” is the wrong phrase (and what to say instead).
• The trap of becoming a workaholic in caregiving.
• The breastfeeding/pumping guilt spiral so many of us know too well.
• Why the relationship you build matters more than the task list you complete.

Whether you’re in the thick of it or still deciding if kids are even for you, this episode is a refreshing take on what motherhood really means.

Connect with Hannah HERE on IG.

ABOUT HANNAH:

Hannah loves creating, celebrating, and connecting. She spends her time filming and editing Instagram videos, attempting to master sourdough, forgetting to water $30 IKEA plants, and hanging out with her husband and six kids. She's passionate about sharing the message: “Motherhood isn't a job--it's a relationship,” helping women release mom guilt, lighten the mental and physical load, and create a version of motherhood that feels fun and expansive. She also hosts a (sometimes) weekly podcast, Rantish, where she dives into her strong opinions—from Pretzel Jello Salad and pelvic floor physical therapy to widely-believed motherhood myths. Her hope is to build a sense of connection and belonging for women—especially lonely stay-at-home moms.

SUMMARY:

00:00 – Intro & Meeting Hannah
How Renae found Hannah online + why she wanted her on the show.

01:10 – Six Kids?!
Hannah shares her background, LDS roots, and early feelings about motherhood.

02:20 – The Programming Around Motherhood
Why she cried through her first pregnancy + the identity loss many women feel.

05:20 – Language Shapes Motherhood
How words like “motherhood” vs. “caregiving” change everything.

10:45 – Motherhood Is a Relationship
The big idea: motherhood = relationship, caregiving = tasks/tools.

12:45 – Judging Other Moms (and Eating Your Words)
Renae’s daycare story + how perspective changes once you’re in it.

16:30 – Becoming a Caregiving Workaholic
Why doing it all can actually harm your relationship with your kids.

18:40 – Finding Space Outside Caregiving
Unicorn space, shared caregiving, and why both parents need breaks.

22:40 – The Purpose of Hannah’s Work
Her mission to change the language around motherhood.

30:45 – Pumping, Breastfeeding, and Mom Guilt
Renae’s raw story + Hannah’s reframe on tools vs. relationship.

36:40 – Outsourcing Motherhood?
Is there a line where you’ve given away too much?

41:20 – Language Swap: Motherhood vs. Caregiving
Why saying “motherhood is hard” keeps women stuck.

44:45 – What’s Next for Hannah
How to connect with her + closing thoughts.

🔗 Links & Resources:

– Get on Renae’s newsletter → Click here
– Visit her site → renaesaager.com
– Connect on Instagram → @renaesaager
– Grab her book → Eat, Drink, Think