Beeji Banter 7: Lilly Claxton

Beeji Banter 7: Lilly Claxton

Imagine a space where the messy realities of motherhood are not just acknowledged but embraced. For Lilly Claxton, a midwife and mum, this isn't a utopian ideal but a tangible reality she fosters through her connection initiatives. From the gentle strolls of a 'Walk and Talk Wednesday' group to the shared solidarity of the Growing podcast and the welcoming atmosphere of Mama and Babes Pilates, a powerful message rings clear: mothers thrive when they are seen, supported, and connected.

 

What inspired you to start your Walk and Talk Wednesday group, and how has it evolved over time?

Walk and Talk was a gentle, natural extension of my Mama and Babes Pilates classes. I started to notice this shift—our babies were growing, wriggling more, curious and no longer content in the studio space. But the mums? They were still craving connection, still wanting that moment in the week just for them.

So, we took it outside. Fresh air, sunshine, a coffee in hand—and space to just be. No sign-ups, no pressure, just a come-as-you-are gathering. It felt like a big exhale. And honestly, I think that simplicity is what makes it so beautiful. It’s about movement, motherhood, and meaningful chats—big or small. Over time, it’s evolved into this lovely little ritual in the week. Some come every time, others drop in when they can—and all are welcome. That’s what I love most about it.



On your podcast ‘Growing’, you offer a solid dose of solidarity in motherhood—how do you think a strong community helps support mothers?

I believe deeply in the power of community. It’s been a core value for me long before I became a mum or a midwife. But in motherhood, it becomes something even more vital. You’re going through such a huge shift—physically, emotionally, spiritually. And while there’s so much joy, there can also be loneliness, doubt, and overwhelm.

Community reminds us we’re not doing this alone. It offers us those “ugh yes” moments, the kind that can steady you on the hard days. I think so many of us are reimagining the village—creating pockets of support, whether through friendships, podcasts, or showing up to a weekly walk. Even in small moments, we find big magic in being seen and understood. (@growingthepodcast)


As a midwife and mum, what have you learned about the power of connection and support within communities?

Connection has shown up again and again as the thread that ties everything together. When I think about the most meaningful parts of my work and my life, it’s always been about people feeling held—whether through a hug, a shared story, or a laugh in the middle of a messy day.

There’s something really sacred about being in a space where you can show up exactly as you are, and know you’ll be met with empathy, not expectation. Support doesn’t have to be grand—it can be someone remembering your coffee order, checking in after a tough night, or simply sitting beside you.

In those quiet, human moments, there’s so much power. We don’t need to do life, especially motherhood, on our own. And honestly, we’re not meant to.


With your Pilates teaching, how do you foster a sense of community within your classes, and what impact have you seen from this approach?

The community creates itself, the women arrive and pile in with babies, bouncers, carriers and the magic just happens on its own. I try and keep it really simple, everyone introduces themselves and their baby before we start so we get to know each other week by week. It's a take what you need leave what you don't approach. I always say to the mums there's no such thing as being late, just get here when you can, feed if you need to, spend the whole class in child's pose if that's what you need. We all have a coffee together afterwards and week by week we all just get to know each other. I just want it to always just feel like a warm hug. 

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Follow Lilly @lillian.beth and @growingthepodcast

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