Threshold
Holy Labor: The Real Work of Faith, Trauma, and Healing in Motherhood
Is there anything I can do to help?
0:00
Current time: 0:00 / Total time: -39:10
-39:10

Is there anything I can do to help?

How trauma in birth & beyond impacts fathers

In this episode of Holy Labor, we’re shifting perspectives to focus on the often-overlooked experience of dads during birth trauma. My husband joins me to share his raw and honest story of witnessing my emergency surgery and making the impossible choice between staying with me in the OR or following our son to the NICU.

We explore the unique challenges fathers face in these moments—the weight of helplessness, the emotional toll of watching a loved one suffer, and the struggle to find ways to help. Together, we discuss the psychological impact of witnessing trauma, the loneliness men often feel in times of crisis, and the healing power of finding support through connection, like my husband’s transformative experience in a men’s processing group.

This episode is for the dads who feel unseen in their worry, the families navigating trauma together, and anyone seeking to understand the quiet strength it takes to support a partner through the hardest days.

Featuring statistics on PTSD and depression in fathers after childbirth trauma, insights on gender roles in emotional processing, and a closing blessing for those carrying heavy burdens, this conversation will leave you feeling seen, supported, and reminded of God’s sustaining grace.

If you want to say thanks for this episode buy me a coffee!

Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.

Links:

Dr. Rachelle Keng

Christa Hardin

Discussion about this podcast

Threshold
Holy Labor: The Real Work of Faith, Trauma, and Healing in Motherhood
"Holy Labor" is a podcast offering hope and healing for Christian moms who feel alone in their journey through pregnancy, birth, or postpartum trauma. Hosted by author, wife, and new mom Molly Wilcox, this podcast creates a safe space for women whose stories don’t fit the current Christian narrative around motherhood.
Each episode dives deep into the complexities of faith, trauma, and redemption with real stories and expert insights. Featuring conversations with a Christian OBGYN, therapists, authors, and fellow trauma survivors, "Holy Labor" explores the heartache and joy of motherhood while affirming that God’s love is unwavering—even when the journey isn’t what we expected.
If you’ve felt judged, isolated, or misunderstood because your story doesn’t match the picture-perfect version of motherhood, this podcast is for you. Join Molly as she breaks the silence and stigma, reminding you that healing and hope are always possible.
Listen on
Substack App
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
RSS Feed
Appears in episode
Molly Wilcox