Infertility, a Traumatic Birth, Depression, and Alcohol: This is Monica's Story

We kick off our first episode of "Mommy's New Medicine" with a deep dive into Monica Olano's story, guided by her producer, Jon Gay. Monica opens up about her struggles with imposter syndrome, a common thread among podcasters, and sets the stage for what this podcast aims to achieve. She's candid about her insecurities and her mission to transform stigmas into strengths, offering a platform for open discussions on topics often shrouded in silence.Monica shares her tumultuous journey through infertility, a battle that led her to experimental treatments and ultimately, the birth of her miracle baby amidst the onset of COVID-19. This personal story transitions into a broader conversation about the challenges of motherhood, postpartum depression, and the unexpected hurdles of raising twins with medical issues. Monica's narrative is a testament to the complexities of life and the resilience required to navigate them.The conversation takes a turn towards Monica's battle with alcoholism, a coping mechanism for the overwhelming stress and anxiety of her circumstances. She discusses her transition to using cannabis as a healthier alternative, emphasizing the stigma surrounding its use and advocating for a more open dialogue about its benefits compared to alcohol. Monica's journey is not just about switching vices but finding a path to healing and understanding herself better, including a diagnosis of ADHD that explained years of internal turmoil.Jon and Monica delve into the importance of community and the role of technology in Monica's life. Monica highlights her passion for digital marketing and AI, leveraging her skills to support family businesses and launch her consultancy. This blend of personal growth and professional ambition underscores the podcast's theme of turning challenges into opportunities."Mommy's New Medicine" is more than a podcast; it's a movement towards breaking down barriers and creating a supportive community. Monica's openness about her life's struggles and triumphs invites listeners to share their stories, fostering a space where vulnerability is strength, and every voice matters.This Naked Mind - Annie GraceThis is the book I mentioned in the episode.  I would listen to 15-30 minutes each morning when I took the kids for a stroll.  I was still drinking at the time and I really like how she broke everything down.  Again, I'm not pushing for everyone to go sober, just a strong learning tool for anyone that might be sober curious. Where to find Monica -Cali Sober Mom YoutubeCali Sober Mom WebsiteCali Sober Mom - InstagramMonica Olano - LinkedIn Where to find Britney: Imperfect Inspiration WebsiteImperfect Inspiration - TiktokImperfect Inspiration - InstagramBritney Brown - Instagram