Content Notes: This episode centers around postpartum anxiety and depression. It might be a tender one for some listeners.

---

Kristina Percy (she/ her) is an actuary by training who has somehow found herself the author of a book of poems, almost none of which are about math.

In 2019, she started writing e-mails to herself and her kids to work through what would later be diagnosed as postpartum anxiety. For over a year, it manifested as an all-consuming, uncontrollable rage.

In this episode, Kristina generously reads some of those e-mails and doesn't hold back. Excuse me while I gush over how brave and honest my friend is. <3

Through tears and courage, Kristina shares how she made it to the other side. One of my favourite lines from this interview was, "I had so much support once I asked for it."

In 2024, Kristina's book Both True was the runner-up in Button's 2024 Poetry Chapbook Contest. It was one of five books I gave a 10/10 rating in 2025 and think you absolutely need to read it. You can find it here: https://buttonpoetry.com/product/both-true/ Listen to the end of this episode to hear Kristina read a brand new poem titled, I Had a Baby and Now Anything Will Make Me Cry.

Here is the article by Minna Dubin that was referenced in the interview: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/15/parenting/mother-rage.html

If you are in need of postpartum support, you can text “Help” to 800-944-4773 anytime or go to PSI's website: https://postpartum.net/get-help/

For more info on my work as a writing coach or to sign up for workshops, head to www.doulaofwords.com

Follow on IG & threads @doulaofwords

To sign up to be a guest, please email Yoda at yoda@thedoulaofwords.com - we'd love to have you!

Find my books here <3

------------

Kid's Help Phone: You can reach a professional counsellor at Kids Help Phone in English or French 24/7 by calling 1-800-668-6868

9-8-8: Call or text from anywhere in Canada or the U.S., anytime

CMHA: Call Reach Out at 1-866-933-2023 to receive mental health and/or addictions support