73. This maternity leave hack blew my mind

What if your employer was holding back thousands of dollars and extra months of maternity leave—and you didn’t even know it? In this episode, we’re diving into the real maternity leave benefits you’re entitled to and how to uncover them. You’ll hear from expert Diane Gatza, founder of California Maternity Leave Consulting, who’s helped thousands of moms maximize their leave, even scoring a full year of paid time off. What to Listen For: Why trusting HR could be your biggest maternity leave mistake How one mom made more money on leave than as a full-time engineer What most employers aren’t telling you about short-term disability benefits How some women are taking a full year off—with up to $96,000 tax-free Simple steps to check your employer documents for hidden benefits How state benefits differ—and what to do if your state doesn’t offer paid leave Why private disability insurance could be a game-changer if you’re not pregnant yet Emotional and physical benefits of extended leave (like easier breastfeeding and bonding) You deserve time to rest, heal, and bond with your baby—and get paid for it. Whether you're in California or another state, this episode arms you with knowledge to uncover hidden maternity leave benefits and confidently advocate for what you’re entitled to. 💪 👉 Don’t forget to check out Diane’s free workshop and her online course if you want expert help navigating your leave. And be sure to subscribe to The Postpartum Shift for more episodes that support you in feeling like yourself again postpartum. ----------------------- Please rate, review and subscribe to the podcast! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 💛 Explore all programs and resources: https://linktr.ee/brooke.miller.nutrition Come say hi on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/nutrition.for.mamas/ Subscribe to Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@BrookeMMiller Free Workshop: How Busy Moms Reach Their Healthiest Weight Without Spending Hours in the Kitchen: https://www.busymommeals.com/cookingclassworkshopig Join Busy Mom Meals: High protein 15 minute or less meals: https://www.busymommeals.com/monthly  Is your toddler a picky eater? Save your seat in this FREE training with my dietitian bestie & picky eating expert: https://nutritionforlittles.com/freetraining-aff/?ref=brooke57 Get a 7 day free trial & save 15% off the yearly subscription of the Expecting & Empowered Workout App! Use code: NUTRITIONFORMAMAS at checkout: https://app.expectingandempowered.com/subscriptions/ My Favorite Vitamins & Supplements: I’ve organized the vitamins and supplements I recommend most often (and personally take) into my dietitian-curated supplement store so it’s easy to find the exact brands I trust. Browse my store here: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/brookemillernutrition/store-start Create a free account (takes about 30 seconds), then scroll down to see my recommended supplement plans. You can also turn on Subscribe & Save for an extra discount and automatic shipping so you never run out.