Midnight Mama

In conversations about motherhood, we often hear the phrase “it takes a village.” The idea of a supportive village is important; family, friends, and community all play a role in helping a mother navigate pregnancy and postpartum. But what we don’t talk about enough is the care team. A village offers support. A team provides specialized care. Just like in sports, motherhood isn’t meant to be played alone. It requires a team of professionals who each support a different part of a mother’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being. That team may include: Obstetricians and midwives who guide pregnancy and birth Pelvic floor physical therapists who support recovery and body healing Doulas who provide labor and postpartum support Lactation consultants who assist with feeding challenges Mental health professionals who support emotional well-being Perinatal educators and coaches who help mothers prepare for the transition into postpartum The key is understanding that this team doesn’t have to be on the field at the same time. Just like a well-run game, team members are subbed in and out depending on what the mother needs at that moment in her journey. One professional may take the lead during pregnancy, another during birth, and others during postpartum recovery. Each member of the team is responsible for supporting a specific piece of the mother. When those professionals communicate and collaborate, care becomes more coordinated, supportive, and effective. This perspective was recently reinforced for me while sitting in an inclusive space with providers across disciplines: physical therapists, birth workers, mental health professionals, and maternal health advocates, who are working to break down the silos that often exist in maternal care. We all recognize the same thing: Mothers do better when their care is connected. The Whole Mom exists to be part of that collaborative team. Through education, coaching, and postpartum support, our role is to help mothers understand what’s happening during the fourth trimester, navigate the emotional and identity shifts of motherhood, and feel supported as they transition into this new stage of life. When we move beyond the idea of a village and start building intentional care teams for mothers, we create a system where women are no longer expected to navigate one of the most transformative periods of their lives alone. Because when the mother is supported, every life that comes from her is impacted.

In this episode, Shelly Sharon and I dive deep into the mother wound, a relational trauma that often begins in childhood and shapes the way women see themselves, connect with others, and navigate motherhood. Together, we unpack a deeply misunderstood truth: healing does not require forgiving the mother who caused the harm. Instead, we explore why true healing is an internal process, rooted in self-awareness, emotional repair, and breaking survival patterns that were formed long before adulthood. We also talk about how the mother wound shows up in identity, boundaries, and relationships, and what it looks like to rebuild a sense of safety within yourself. In this episode, we cover: What the mother wound really is — and how it develops Why healing can happen without reconnecting or forgiving your mother How forced forgiveness can actually block healing The internal work required to break relational trauma patterns Ways the mother wound impacts mothers’ own postpartum experience Steps toward rebuilding confidence, worthiness, and emotional safety Whether you’re in the thick of postpartum or reflecting on patterns that have followed you for years, this conversation offers compassion, clarity, and a path forward. Below are the courses, blogs, and episodes Shelly referenced: BirthRite - free private podcast : https://www.shellysharon.com/birthrite   Reset course: https://www.shellysharon.com/reset   Blog about the fear of being like your mother: https://www.shellysharon.com/single-post/has-being-unlike-your-mother-been-your-compass

In this episode, I’m taking a moment to intentionally close out the year before opening the next. I share why I believe how we end our day matters just as much as how we begin it, and how our nighttime routines quietly shape our mornings, our nervous systems, and our capacity to move forward with clarity. I reflect on the realities of 2025, the struggles, the stretching, and the lessons that came with building work that lives at the intersection of maternal mental health, education, and advocacy. And I share what’s carrying me into 2026 with hope. This episode also marks an important milestone: the launch of a powerful partnership with Andrea’s Wish Foundation that allows me to offer my 4th Trimester Group Program to ten mothers at no cost, a tangible step toward the kind of postpartum support mothers deserve. I also talk about the recently released state maternal mental health report cards, which gave maternal mental health care in the U.S. a C average, and why this confirms what so many mothers already know: postpartum care is still largely reactive, fragmented, and failing families. This is why I believe education, community, and preventive postpartum support should be the standard of care, not the exception. If you’re a mother navigating postpartum, a provider supporting families, or someone who believes mothers deserve better, this conversation is for you. Applications are now open for ten sponsored spots in the 4th Trimester Group Program through a partnership with Andrea’s Wish Foundation. If you’re postpartum and craving support, connection, and guidance during this season, I encourage you to apply. 👉 Apply here

Women can experience 3 sacred windows in their lives: menarche, postpartum, and menopause, and today we open the window to postpartum through a different lens, the Ayurvedic and Universal Mother principles of care.  In this episode, I explore these principles and approaches with Christine Eck, the founder of Sacred Window Studies.  We explore the importance of understanding our bodies, what it means to "nourish" them, specifically in the postpartum period, and how her organization is prioritizing moms' recovery through the Conscious Care Giver Training program.  Our conversation was uplifting and inspiring, reminding me how special and valuable this transformative experience of postpartum is.    Christine is a mother to four children.  She is an Ayurvedic Health Consultant, a Birth and Postpartum Doula, and the founder and director of the Center for Sacred Window Studies.  She is an advocate for social awareness and change for postpartum care in cultures where traditions in caregiving have diminished or disappeared.  She is an educator, speaker, organizer, caregiver, and group facilitator.  Her mission with the Center for Sacred Window Studies is to empower professionals in postpartum care and families with information and tools in creating the support needed during the sacred postpartum window.  She trains Conscious Postpartum Caregivers to support families using diet, routine, herbal support, healing touch, and the Universal Mother Principles of conscious care.  Christine resides in Western Massachusetts and teaches students around the world. Learn more: https://sacredwindowstudies.com/sacred-journey-landing/ Schedule a free consult with Christine

Trigger Warning:  This episode follows Andrea Kolbe's journey through pregnancy, postpartum, and the devastating loss of her life to perinatal suicide.  In this episode, I sit down with Andrea's sister, Kyra Vocci, who was willing to share Andrea's story with The Whole Mom, in an effort to raise awareness and talk as openly as possible about the risks of perinatal suicide in our country.  Since the loss of her sister, Kyra has made it her mission to raise awareness and advocacy about perinatal mental health, inspiring everyone in her path.  She joined Postpartum Support International's MD Chapter, where I have the honor of working alongside her on this mission.  She has since founded Andrea's Wish Foundation, where all proceeds have gone to unique approaches at funding additional services for postpartum moms.  She is a powerhouse and someone I am truly honored to know.  Please be mindful of where you listen to this episode and your mental health status at this time.    Should this episode resonate with you, we would love to hear from you.  Please consider making a donation to Andrea's Wish Foundation and sharing this episode with family or friends.   “If you or someone you love is struggling, you are not alone. Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. For postpartum-specific support, call or text the PSI HelpLine at 1-800-944-4773.”  

Social media can be a useful tool for many things.  It can also be detrimental for postpartum moms who are navigating unfamiliar and vulnerable spaces.  I get down to business in this episode, validating the desire for connectivity and motivation while also reminding you that social media is performative, much like the movies.  This powerful episode explores the dichotomy of "enjoying the newborn phase" and rushing our development and evolution as moms, and how that shapes our emotional constructs.  You are NOT going to want to miss this episode, no matter what stage of postpartum you are in.   Find your stage of postpartum:   Apply to our Birthing Her Group Coaching Program Your Free 4th Trimester Blueprint (developed by a perinatal specialist)

Breastfeeding is a lot of things, and underdiscussed and underprepared for are some of them.  Moms leave the hospital with their baby, diapers, and handouts, but retain little information about feeding their babies.  Instead of encouraging moms to "put the baby to the breast", let's normalize getting education around nursing and baby feeding practices.  Tune into this week's episode where I chat with Abigail Miles, RN, IBCLC, Founder of Latchline, and talk about the impact of nursing/pumping on maternal mental health, and how Latchline is helping moms within the comfort of their homes. With over a decade of experience supporting families, I’ve seen firsthand the joys and challenges of breastfeeding. It's one of the most personal and impactful experiences a parent can have. But it’s not always easy, and too often, families are left feeling overwhelmed or unsupported. My mission is simple: to empower you with the knowledge, tools, and confidence you need to reach your breastfeeding goals—no matter where you are in your journey. Resources: www.mylatchline.com IG & FB: @latchline  

When I talk to you about prepping for postpartum, it goes deeper than your physical and mental health.  It should include all aspects of your baby's life, especially a feeding plan.  You know my motto is that it's better to have a plan and never use it than to need one and not have it, and that goes for feeding too.  In this weeks episode I sit down with Share The Drop Founder, Kelly Cox, and learn about her mission to match moms with milk and resources all across the country.  You can imagine that we had a lot in common, so tune in for an insightful and educational chat.   Kelly Cox, RPYT, LCSW, Birth Doula, 500 E-RYT Cox is a registered prenatal yoga teacher, birth doula, licensed clinical social worker, and creator of Share the Drop.  Cox has worked with families throughout their childbearing years for 17+ years and now focuses on helping families without access to breast milk find donated milk in their communities. As a breast cancer survivor, Cox focuses on how those who are unable to produce breast milk can access it for their infants.    

Have you ever felt like you carry all of the responsibilities of parenting and your household?  Have you ever wondered how this happened and if this is just how it's "supposed to be?"  Then you are in the right place.  I had the pleasure of speaking with Lucinda Gibbons, founder of Lake House Collective, who specializes in men's mental health, as well as perinatal mental health for all family members. We explored why this is the current situation for American moms and how to break through this.  We explore the Fair Play Method and what moms are responsible for vs what we are conditioned to believe.  You do NOT want to miss this. Lucinda Gibbons, MMFT (she/her) holds a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and advanced training in Perinatal Mental Health from Postpartum Support International. She is the founder of Lake House Collective, where she specializes in men’s mental health, perinatal mental health for all family members, LGBTQ+ youth and parents, and cultivating inclusive and high-performing workplaces. She is the lead trainer for The Fair Play Method, where she trains practitioners and professionals from around the world to bring The Fair Play Method to individuals, couples, and teams of all kinds.    Lucinda’s warm, matter-of-fact approach creates an inclusive and collaborative learning environment that encourages active participation and personal growth. Her expertise lies in rebalancing the domestic workload among partners, making space for men to learn how to identify and communicate their inner world to those they care about, as well as in parenting, communication skills, and guiding clients through making values-aligned choices in their lives.    Lucinda lives just north of Boston, MA, and offers virtual sessions worldwide and in-person work at her office in South Hamilton, MA. 

We measure our growth and progress in the postpartum period by months rather than spaces.  In this episode, I share a new concept I developed called the Postpartum Stages, and explore what each stage looks like, what to expect from yourself, and how long these should last (reference guides).  I use this with my 1:1 clients to help give them a framework to navigate rather than an arbitrary deadline of 6 months, 9 months, or 12 months pp.  The stages help you accurately measure your progress based on outcomes, not deadlines.  I will walk you through the 4 stages that cover two years postpartum and lay the foundation for you to build upon.   If you enjoy this episode and are interested in working together on navigating these stages, please email me @ [email protected]

I had the distinct honor to sit down with Dr. Moya O'Leary, a psychologist and LPC, to open a large can of worms related to the "Mother wound" and generational influences.  We had a candid conversation about our pasts, and Dr O'Leary simplified the ideation of the mother wound, how our bodies keep score, and how we can still choose to mother the way we intend.   Dr. Moya O'Leary is a psychologist and licensed professional counselor, currently licensed in Connecticut, Florida, and Pennsylvania. She’s a proud mother of two, Wyatt and Olive, and a loving bonus mom to Carolyn. Moya blends relational-attachment theory with cognitive behavioral strategies in her work, supporting clients through nuanced emotional challenges with compassion and clarity. She is currently pursuing certification in Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, deepening her exploration of consciousness and healing to help clients access deeper self-understanding. She aptly named her practice Healing Clover Counseling as a nod to her Irish roots and the four leaves of the clover, representing the four stages of life she has dedicated her career to: trying to conceive, pregnancy, postpartum, and motherhood. Moya is grateful to have connected with Nicole on the Midnight Mama podcast and is open to any other professionals interested in collaborating.  Where to find Dr. O'Leary: Healing Clover Counseling IG: @Healing_Clover_Counseling

I had the honor today to sit down with Tides of Life Doula and Perinatal Bereavement Services, CEO, Ashley Inclima, for an in-depth discussion about the importance of perinatal grief and loss education for birth workers.   Ashley Inclima is a birth and bereavement doula, certified grief educator, and founder of Tides of Life Doula & Perinatal Bereavement Services LLC. Her passion for this work began after the loss of her son Adrian, whose fatal diagnosis in 2011 led to a termination for medical reasons. She later experienced a 5-week pregnancy loss, which further highlighted how often families navigating loss are met with a lack of resources, support, and compassionate care. Drawing from her journey, specialized training, and over a decade of professional experience in OB/GYN settings, Ashley supports families through loss, pregnancy after loss, and early postpartum. She also provides education for doulas and birth professionals on offering trauma-informed, compassionate care, and recently launched a self-paced version of her Tides of Life: Perinatal Loss Training to increase accessibility.  Ashley facilitates Tides of Life: Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support Circle, an online community with a monthly gathering for grieving families. Her mission is to ensure no one walks through loss alone and to help birth workers feel prepared to hold space for healing. Some additional resources from Ashley: YouTube Video:  Online Support Community:   

In this deeply personal episode, I share the story of a recent traumatic experience involving my son and how it forced me to stop, feel, and breathe again. I talk about what it’s like to go underwater emotionally, the guilt and grief that followed, and the clarity that only challenges can bring. More importantly, I reflect on what this experience taught me about motherhood, mental health, and the importance of choosing yourself, even when everything around you feels heavy. This is a conversation about honoring the hard moments, taking a breath, and deciding how to move forward, more softly, slowly, and intentionally. Connect with me if you need support

If it's not one thing it's another, and I am referring to the hurdles and life event's of mothers and women.  Today I had the privilege of sitting down with Hot or Just Me founder, Carin Luna-Ostaseski to talk about the intersection of postpartum and perimenopause, and how we don't have to simply accept this stage in life.  We openly explore the most common symptoms of perimenopause, the frequency and duration of this timeframe, and what you can do to educate yourself on perimenopause and make yourself more comfortable.  You will NOT want to miss this discussion or getting to know Carin. About our Guest: Carin Luna-Ostaseski is the founder of Hot or Just Me?, a comprehensive online shop and go-to resource for managing perimenopause and menopause. The site offers a wide range of trusted products, expert advice, a gift shop and bookstore, and a supportive community, ensuring women have everything needed to navigate this transformative stage and feel empowered. Luna-Ostaseski's journey with perimenopause symptoms like hot flashes, brain fog, anxiety, insomnia, and night sweats inspired her mission to find a solution. A serial entrepreneur, Luna-Ostaseski is the first American woman and Hispanic person to create a Scotch whisky (SIA Scotch Whisky). The award-winning blend, launched through a record-breaking Kickstarter campaign, has left a significant mark in the industry. She also founded the Entrepreneurial Spirit Fund by SIA Scotch, which has provided over $350,000 in grants to underserved entrepreneurs, making a tangible difference in their lives. She continues championing the next generation of entrepreneurs in her ongoing commitment to helping people thrive.   As mentioned in the episode, you can follow this link and use MidnightMom for 10% off any products after visiting her site and taking their quiz.   Additional links mentioned Finding a trusted and trained provider here @Menopause.org The New Menopause Dr. Mary Claire Haver

In this episode, we explore the multifaceted and continuously changing nature of motherhood. Far from being a static role, motherhood evolves with time, personal growth, and shifting dynamics within the family. From the early days of infancy, through the toddler years, adolescence, and into adulthood, the journey of being a mother is marked by constant adaptation, learning, and transformation. We discuss how motherhood isn't defined by a single set of rules, but rather, is shaped by an individual’s experiences, cultural influences, and personal values and that is why we don't have a rule book.  Tune in as I share my perspective for this current season of motherhood and it's hosts of challenges, and offer some tips and tricks on how to set yourself up for success in each season, after you define it. I encourage you to stay connected so head over to The Whole Mom and sign up for our newsletter, especially to get a sneak peak at the free course I'm working on.

What happens when you get burned out at your job?  Most people can recognize this and then take action, such as taking a vacation or a sick day, which can help you step away and get recentered. What happens when moms get burned out and can't plan a holiday away from their family, or call in sick?  The 2024 moms have more responsibilities than ever, contributing to overstimulation and burnout in more than one area of their lives.  These experiences impact how we show up for ourselves, our children, and our careers, and get mislabeled resulting in a few layers of mom guilt.  In this episode, I explore the signs and symptoms of burnout, and how to leverage supports in your life and exercise creativity to prevent and recover from burnout.  Even single moms, or moms with minimal support can put systems in place to support their mental health.  There is something for everyone in this episode.  As always, I would love to hear from you so feel free to share the episode or write a review.  If you need support and you aren't sure where to turn, I invite you to book a call with me here and talk about what that support would look like and let me show you how some of our services can be helpful for you.

When we encounter difficult or challenging times (hello postpartum) our brains attempt to protect us, shielding us from any type of harm, emotionally or physically and it looks different for everyone.  I share my experience with emotional removal from the postpartum period, what it looked like, why I think it happened, and how it presented for me years down the road.  Whether you are a new mom, expecting mom, or seasoned, this has valid points an reassurance for YOU.  Learning to stay present through the challenges can bring rewards later down the road and leave you open for less "what if's" if you can leverage it. Remember, nobody can tell you that you hold your baby too much, whether they are 3 weeks old or 30 years old.  They are your baby and your connection to all great things.  If you are interested in working through some of what was discussed here, then I invite you to connect with me.   Free Consult Stay healthy and safe Nicole

You might be wondering how these two intertwine and if you tune in I promise you will learn very quickly.  I recognize that we put so much emphasis on the physical aspect of postpartum recovery without much mention of the mental health component.  It takes work, insight, and choice to be able to overcome some significant challenges that occurred throughout the postpartum period.  Sometimes you need a clean slate to build upon to recover successfully, and other times you need to do nothing so you can survive. Learning which season you are in can help determine the intervention, and sometimes it will result in you tossing your Christmas tree.  I hope you enjoy listening to this full circle postpartum recovery moment for me, and if you need some assistance in your recovery, you can always book a free consultation.  Happy Thanksgiving all.

I'm so excited to be back after some short time away and to be as transparent as possible, life has been kicking me around a bit, mentally.  I decided to share with you what I have been doing to protect my peace and mental health during this time, and how I plan to carry that through to the holiday season.  The world around us might be a bit chaotic and feel unsafe, but I want you to know that you are always welcome here, and I am available if you need assistance now, or at any point in the future.  Be sure to follow me on IG at nicole_kumi and you can always email me at [email protected]

Have you ever had a moment with your kids or spouse where you could feeling yourself unwinding but you cannot stop?  Yep, that was me this week, dealing with stress and sick kiddos, and eventually losing my shit on my daughter.  I experienced all of the emotions and guilt that came along with not being able to hold it together.  I share that experience with you in this episode, as well as how I bounced back from it, future expectations, and I give you permission to lose your shit once in a while so you can experience the wide array of emotions afforded to us as humans.  You are human, you will lose your shit, it is ok, and there is a lesson to be learned here.  I hope you enjoy this and find some validation knowing it is a natural and healthy part of your process

One of the hardest parts of motherhood is the loss of control in the postpartum period.  Without the proper education and information about the realities of the postpartum period, moms are left to figure many things out on their own, often leading to a decline in their mental health.  I share my journey around losing control and how attempting to protect my mental health put me at risk for late-onset postpartum depression.  Tune in as I talk about this process and how I eventually intervened, implementing systems that would help me recover. As always, if you need support, feel free to connect.

You may have heard about flamingos losing their pink during pregnancy and the postpartum period.  It's an interesting phenomenon that many moms can relate to, once you learn how to apply it to your current situation.  Tune into this episode where I transparently share with you that I have finally gotten my pink back, four years postpartum, and what I learned about this process. Just a reminder to you, your story and journey are YOURS.  Let no one invalidate "how long" it takes for your pink to come back, or suggest it "should" be back by now.  You take your sweet time if you want to, and make sure the color suits you when it does shine through.   If you are in the space of finding your pink, you are not alone, and there is support.  Feel free to fill out a consultation for coaching where we can help you with this process. Consult application

Perinatal grief and loss continues to be a topic I am highlighting on my platform, and in this episode I interview Sadija A. Smiley as she courageously walks us through her journey of becoming a young mother and experiencing a stillbirth.  Her openness and vulnerability allows for a light to be shone in one of the darkest areas of maternal health, giving hope and encouragement to so many more.  Grab your tissues before tuning into this episode and please feel free to share this with someone you think could use some support. Sadija A. Smiley is the Founder and CEO of Stillborn And Infant Loss Support (SAILS), an organization dedicated to supporting families affected by miscarriage, stillbirth, and other pregnancy losses. After the stillbirth of her daughter Ivyanna in 2003, Sadija founded SAILS in 2017 to honor Ivyanna's memory and provide compassionate care to those navigating grief. With over six years of operation and more than 600 families served, Sadija’s leadership has transformed SAILS from a basement initiative to a vital resource center. Her commitment to community building, education, and support drives SAILS’ mission to improve the mental health and well-being of bereaved families.   Founder/CEO and Certified Grief Recovery Specialist Ivyanna's Mom 11/13/03 - 11/13/03 Phone: 410-941-9061 www.bornintosilence.org

This week I began recording for a new series focusing on perinatal grief and loss.  This topic can be triggering for some people, so I caution you to check in with yourself before listening: This week, Kate joined me to share her story about becoming pregnant and then receiving some information about her pregnancy that would ultimately have her make one of the most difficult decisions of her life.  Kate opens her heart to us and shares her incredible story about TFMR, the stigma and shame that can be associated with this, and how she has found her way through the grief, one small step at a time. Please, keep an open mind when listening to this episode, and if you want to show some love to her, leave a review. If you or anyone you know is going through this process, and dealing with the grief of perinatal loss, let's connect and be sure that you have the support and community that Kate talks about in this episode. Email me:  [email protected] Postpartum support international support groups linked here

Effective communication is the most essential tool moms can carry in their toolbox (or purse).  Someone once told me that I steer my words like a Ferrari, and I took that compliment and ran with it.  I have learned how to get my needs met without asking, and in this episode I share the "How to" with you.  For those of you who are worrying, or have worried about losing the "masculine energy" you've so proudly created in your life; the energy that has catapulted you into high paying and highly respectable positions, well, let's say it's still there.  Once you learn to re-purpose it an leverage it, you won't be stopped. If this spoke to you, and you are interested in working together on the development of this skill and energy, let's connect. [email protected]

We put so much focus on supporting our children and their growth that we forget we are growing alongside of them, and this might mean "outgrowing" environments.  As you grow and evolve as a mother it is natural for you to feel uncomfortable in places you once enjoyed or found comfort in.  Your circle will change, and sometimes it becomes clear that you need a better, or stronger community to support this new version of you.  Like most jobs, there comes a point where a change is necessary, and sometimes motherhood can put that into perspective for us.  My question is, do you have that circle or are in you in need of a "new environment?"  If the latter is the case, then I invite you to explore my virtual community, The Nest, a monthly subscription that provides you with that environment.  I am launching a new group coaching program this summer that focuses on  Becoming Her, and would love to give you more information on this here   As always, if you need some assistance, don't hesitate to reach out [email protected]

As I close out the series of Birthing Her I thought it was important for me to highlight the most influential woman in my life, who also happened to have given birth to me.  I sat down with my mother to talk a bit about what her life was like, becoming a mother 40 years ago to see what has changed in the world of maternal mental health.  We got vulnerable talking about the mother wound, the one wound we don't realize we have until we become mothers, and ways to recover or triage that wound so we don't bleed on our own children.  How do you learn to become a mother if you didn't have a strong example, and what has that done for you on your own journey? Tune it to find out.  You will not want to miss this episode, for so many reasons.  Whether or not you have the mother wound, everyone can benefit from hearing this impactful interview between to strong, healthy mamas, who come from the same bloodline. Please, leave a comment or two letting us know if this was helpful for you. If you believe you have the mother wound and want to work through this in a safe space, don't hesitate to connect with me @ [email protected]

I sat down today with board-certified pediatrician/life coach, Dr. Jessica Daigle and talked in depth about her experience  with the NICU from a provider and parent standpoint.  Dr. Jess shares her challenges navigating pregnancy loss, postpartum, and the NICU from the perspective of a mother, and what she is doing to contribute to education, awareness, and support of NICU families.  Dr. Jessica Daigle is a board-certified pediatrician, neonatal/pediatric hospitalist, and Founder/CEO of Mom & Me MD. She is the proud mother of 2 kids both born prematurely, with 1 staying in the NICU for 5 weeks.  She has a concierge medical practice in Atlanta, GA that provides local in-home and virtual care services to newborns (with focus on NICU babies) with education and support for their mothers/families to make the transition home easier and less overwhelming. She also offers life coaching for NICU moms to help them navigate life after the NICU and be the confident mom they want to be.  She lives in South Atlanta with her husband and two kids. Follow her on Instagram @momandme_md

What happens when you see an OBGYN on the evening news and she is talking about maternal mental health?  You find her and immediately connect.  This was the evolution of our friendship and today we talk about how some connections are just meant to be, and how motherhood has allowed for that space to be present in our lives today.  Sometimes, the OBGYNs get a bad rap for not being "informed" about mental health, but Stephanie is anything but uninformed.  She believes so strongly in educating the "Whole Mom" that she has since shifted in her career.  She might not be delivering newborns, but she is still in the arena of delivering...ideas, businesses, and new moms.  Tune into to hear us talk about feeling empowered as mothers to do whatever we truly want to do, without apologies. "Dr. Stephanie Hack is a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist, professional speaker, and entrepreneur. Her special interests in health education, meditation, and women's health empowerment have led to a career spanning two decades. From co-hosting television shows to traveling the countryside of Honduras, she has always used her voice to bring awareness to women's health issues.   Dr. Hack obtained her medical degree from the Lewis Katz School of Medicine and a Master's degree in public health from Temple University. She has developed multiple community programs, obtained grants to facilitate community health initiatives, and served as a commissioner for the D.C. Lactation Commission. During her residency at Georgetown University Hospital and Washington Hospital Center, she further developed her skills as a surgeon and educator, providing care for hundreds of women in the DMV area.   Dr. Hack considers herself a lifelong learner whose goal is to enjoy life as much as possible, as healthily as possible, for as long as possible. She wishes the same for you, aiming to empower you to live your healthiest, fullest life." Website: ladypartsdoctor.com Podcast:  https://blubrry.com/ladypartsdoctor/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/ladypartsdoc/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ladypartsdoc?lang=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEzZXXaGApNDsyQYiTk4i1Q

There is something to be said about women who play competitive sports entering motherhood, and Jenna and I dive right into that pool of discussion in this episode.  We used to channel our thoughts and anxiety into competitive sports, so what happens when the sports are removed and we have babies?  Tune in to find out the answer to that, and how using those emotions to pivot in motherhood and build business after business while figuring out just who you want to be wearing this new hat. Jenna Urban once immersed in suits, now thrives in sweatpants. As the owner of Urban Mac Media, she spent 17 years teaching before transitioning to higher education—which didn’t unfold as expected. This ultimately led Urban to pivot towards her family’s businesses – Lawn and Order Landscaping and LMJ Sheds. Urban’s online journey started back in 2009, when she started a money-saving blog and amplified her media presence in local newspapers and live TV segments. She is a fierce advocate for local businesses and side hustles, providing expert marketing consulting in email, and content creation. Urban also co-hosts the “Sole Sisters Podcast” with her sister where they empower their audience with relatable stories from women in leadership roles. Whether seeking direction, contemplating a career change, or aiming for self-fulfillment, Urban strives to instill clarity, confidence, and courage, enabling clients to recognize their unique and impactful purposes. She writes about her transformative shift from traditional work to entrepreneurial success on JennaUrban.net.    

I had the pleasure of chatting with my longtime sister/friend, Dr. Lara today as we explored a topic minimally discussed "transparently" as it relates to motherhood.  Can I still have my career after babies?  I sat down with Lara today as she shared her experiences with becoming a mom, navigating postpartum, both at home and in her career, and staying true to herself even when it went against the "standard."  From psych hospitals to prisons, and outpatient programs to weddings, Dr. Lara is doing it all, one hustle at a time, and kicking down any door that stands in the way of her calling.  If you are a career-driven woman and mom, or mom-to-be, this is going to be an inspirational and validating episode for you. Lara Okanlawon, also known as Dr. Lara and The DocMC is a lover of God, wife to one husband (lol), mother to the two most perfect human beings, a Psychologist and overall BOSS.  Dr. Lara is a seasoned psychologist with over a decade of experience dedicated to empowering individuals, organizations, and communities through therapeutic services, training and development, and facilitation services. With a deep commitment to mental health, marriage and relationships, and personal and professional growth, Dr. Lara brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every endeavor. Her holistic approach to her work emphasizes collaboration, empowerment, and resilience-building, guiding clients toward greater self-awareness and well-being. With her unique blend of clinical expertise, training acumen, and facilitation skills, Dr. Lara is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of others, one interaction at a time. Whether working with individuals in therapy, leading training sessions for professionals, or facilitating group discussions, she embodies her belief in the transformative power of compassion, connection, and growth.  You can keep up with her through her marital support platform at www.marriagepinnacle.com and on social media outlets at @marriagepinnacle! Be sure to check out her podcast Chats From the Peak on YouTube and on all podcast streaming platforms! For professional services, contact her at [email protected]  

Meet Zandra, a seasoned finance professional with over a decade of experience in luxury hotels. Her journey took a transformative turn with the arrival of motherhood, inspiring her to blend expertise with entrepreneurship. Driven by purpose, Zandra founded her online business to offer essential support to entrepreneurs navigating today's complex business landscape. With a focus on empowering individuals to understand their financial numbers and lead with strategic prowess, she's had the privilege of training numerous professionals and guiding them toward holistic success—all while embracing the joys of motherhood.   I had the privilege to connect with Zandra last year through a business coaching course and we related on many topics, motherhood to be exact.  In this episode, we talk at length about her experience as a Swedish woman giving birth in the U.S., her fears, anxiety, and all of the unknowns of postpartum.  She shares how her career shifted once giving birth to her son, and how that event propelled her into entrepreneurship a little ahead of schedule.  She brings a unique experience and shares some of the differences related to maternal mental health as it compares in the U.S. to other countries. We had a great casual conversation and looking forward to growing our businesses and friendships for years to come.    You can find Zandra on IG @ zandrabonick and if you are looking for someone to show you where your money is going, especially in entrepreneurship, she is your GIRL.    

There are enough pressures on moms during pregnancy and postpartum, but what happens when we are the ones applying those pressures, especially when it comes to the expectation of "bouncing back?"  Tune into this week's episode where I sit down with LevelTEN CEO, Joelle Cavagnaro and talk about all the things postpartum.  As the owner of a fitness company, and newly postpartum with her second daughter, there might have been a few challenges to "show" up and meet everyone's expectations.  Joelle and I talked a bit about what that looks like, developing a healthy relationship with your WHOLE self, and why this is so important in her business and her personal life.  The mind and body go hand in hand, and learning to love yourself in every stage of motherhood can positively impact your mental health.   Joelle and her coaches prioritize mental health along with the physical, and do this through a variety of services offered to their clients each month.  To learn more about their coaching services and approach to fitness, follow this link.  If you are pregnant or postpartum and looking to start taking care of your health and fitness goals, I recommend Joelle and her team. Joelle Cavagnaro is the founder and CEO of Level TEN Coaching, an evidence-based fitness and nutrition coaching company that emphasizes individualized training protocols, personalized and periodized nutrition, and mental health. Since leaving her teaching career in high school health and physical education, Joelle has also co-founded another business, Fit Coach Pro, an online fitness coaching software company designed to help coaches streamline and organize their coaching processes. Alongside her two businesses, she is also a mom to two little daughters ages 2 and under (at the time of this recording). You can find her @JoelleSamantha on IG  

This week on the Birthing Her series I had the honor of sitting down with the CEO of Melanated Vibes, Billie J.  Billie and I first bonded in our neighborhood where our first babies were growing and playing with one another; right before I moved out of the neighborhood.  We re-connected during COVID, having our second children close together. Then the universe continually brought us together at the local 711, CVS, and local school, so were finally able to have a sit-down, catch up, and cheer one another one in this new endeavor. Billie shares her experience with pregnancy, pre-eclampsia, and postpartum and I KNOW this is going to resonate with so many mamas out there especially regarding the lack of education and preparation.  We dove into maternal health disparities and inequities, and sharing of resources, and Billie provides solid education and guidance around pre-eclampsia.    You can find more information about pre-eclampsia here in an article from Johns Hopkins Billie is a public relations and communications strategist with over 15 years of experience working on several critical issues such as climate change, global health, international security, human rights, and global women’s issues. Billie is particularly interested in the application of public relations to social issues and her passion for communications is focused on creating positive change and improving people’s lives. Currently, Billie works as a health communications specialist focusing on maternal and child health reducing health disparities and improving health equity for mothers, children, and families.  Billie is also the owner and CEO of Melanated Vibes, an apparel and accessories brand that celebrates Black culture through affirming fashion pieces that inspire and empower. Through her “Shop for Change” initiative, Billie donates a portion of Melanated Vibes’ proceeds to nonprofit and advocacy organizations that are working to address issues of equality, equity, and social justice. Billie has a B.S. in psychology an M.S. in management and public relations and additional training in leadership and human capital management. Billie is a wife and a mom of two.  

Expanding your family is a blessing, filled with the challenges of balancing it all.  What makes it more challenging is when you are starting to see the light in the postpartum period and find yourself navigating motherhood all over again.  Tune into this episode with my girl Julia Batman as she transparently shares her current journey of being pregnant while postpartum and how things have been different for her this time around.  From returning to work and the challenges associated with pumping, to transitioning into a remote position just in time to experience morning sickness again, she bares it all. For more information on The Pump Act, follow this link here. You can find Julia on IG @ Julia_batman_ Julia Batman is a 30-year-old wife and mom of a sweet 1-year-old girl and has another baby girl due to arrive in September. She lives in Pennsylvania, practices as a Clinical Pharmacist, and is also a pet mom to her dog Mifflin, and her cat Philly. She loves motherhood more than anything and is learning to embrace the highs and lows of this period of growing her family.

I love feeling unstoppable, especially as a mother.  There have been times when I felt like I could do it all and thrived in that space at one point.  I could pump while I was working, send emails while I rocked my babies to sleep, and even snuck in a workout on my lunchbreak when sleeping in was more important for my health.  The same things that made me feel unstoppable also contributed to my exhaustion and negatively impacted my mental health at one point in my journey.  Today I share my experience with feeling like I "should" do things because I "could" and how leaning into that message can be detrimental to your growth as a mother.     As always, if you wish to connect email me @ [email protected] www.thewholemom.com IG nicole_kumi  

This was a tough episode to record, and ironically, I had intended to go a whole other direction.  One thing about me is that I go based on my feelings and flow, and something about this current season of struggle I am in was necessary to share for a few reasons. I am a product of my coaching services and believe strongly in the power of speaking up and out about what is truly going on in my life to validate or encourage another mother, and more importantly, my daughter. Tune in as I share openly about her diagnosis, our current situation, and how it has allowed us to draw strength from one another and be more powerful than ever before. I hope she listens to this one day so she can fully understand the power of our love. Drop me a note of inspiration in the comments if this resonates with you.

As we scratch the surface related to maternal mental health and the importance of adequate and accessible education and resources for moms, I can't help but think about our dads who have yet to enter the conversation.  I recognize it is one slow step at a time, and my work with moms highlights the need for MORE work with dads, creating that same space that allows them to be vulnerable and get some assistance with the postpartum process too.  Tune in as I discuss my thoughts around this and what I am personally doing to help dads that are "new here" with very little resources.  I am constantly reminded of my own husbands strength, love, patience, and resilience, that was displayed with very little support or guidance.     My mission as the Founder of The Whole Mom is to provide moms with everything they need on their journey through pregnancy and beyond, and that includes services for Dads.   Here is a handy toolbox for Dad to get familiar with and work with mom to build off of. Dads Toolbox

Learning to become a mother all while BEING a mother was a wild concept for me to wrap my head around.  There was a conflict occurring internally everyday for almost two years as I was trying to figure out what was happening.  I have never been the same since I became a mom, and I am thankful for that because who I became was the right person for the job and I am glad I recognized that she needed to be let out in order to perform.  Tune in as I share my experience and some helpful tips for moms at any stage of their journey who are feeling "conflicted" and resistant to the impending changes ahead.   If you are interested in sharing your story and being a guest on Midnight Mama please follow this link to complete a questionnaire.     If you want to download your free guide to Birthing Her, follow this link.

"I'm tired" is one of the most used phrases in motherhood, and its common use tends to distract people from the real reason behind why moms are tired.  It's not motherhood or our children, it goes much deeper than that and I explore all of that in this episode as well as solutions for it.  As noted in the show, I am inviting each listener to join my new community for moms, The Nest, for just 1$ for an entire YEAR.  Follow the link below to join, or email me with any questions. Join The Nest here Email me with any questions.  [email protected]

We tend to put every mother who is struggling with her transition into motherhood, into the same box and label it as "postpartum" without realizing that is incorrect.  I get down to the specifics related to the postpartum timeframe and how the appropriate language and diagnosis is crucial as it relates to supporting moms with their mental health.  Every mother goes through the "postpartum period" and not every mother will experienced perinatal mood and anxiety disorders...learn the difference so you can be helpful.   As always, if you are in need of more support follow this link and let's set up a free consult to talk more about that.   If you are a mom looking for a safe space to get some support in a larger setting I invite you to follow this link and explore my community for moms, The Nest. If you are in need of some guidance and support understanding the process and finding your footing in motherhood follow this link to my free guides and checklists.

What happens when you experience a set back or feel like everything has fallen apart?  How do you stay positive and protect your mental health?  It can be easy to fall into a depressed state choosing to isolate and allow your frustrations consume you, and I am feeling that lately.  Tune in as I share my recent setback, how I am choosing to tackle it and why it is important that you pay attention to the warning signs.  Sometimes you're exceeding the speed limit and you're not even aware; that's an issue.   Let's chat  

With the holiday season behind us, it can be attractive to settle into a minimalist role as it relates to your physical and mental health.  The period between January and March can be considered the "danger zone" as it relates to mental health, primarily maternal mental health.  You may have been riding the holiday wave for a while, not noticing everything that has been happening around you, and now that the dust has cleared you recognize you have some work to do.  Tune in and listen to my explanation of this "season" and some tips you can utilize to ensure you make it through the next 3 months as the healthiest version of yourself.   As referenced in the episode:  Free 30-day trial of The Nest, a community for EVERY MOM linked here

You would think that having a strong spouse/partner would be the type of flex that would get you a high five in your social circles or mom's groups.  Ironically, a lot of moms are now getting "shamed" for this and it recently happened to me.  Tune in to hear about how I managed it, how to avoid doing it (unintentionally of course), and a few other tips to take with you into the Holiday season.   Bonus:  I am hosting a FREE webinar in January on the power of transitions and understanding the process of behavior change.  Follow this link to register for the webinar, and receive the playback if you can't make it.  I am sharing some helpful tools for you to use when you feel like you are over yourself and need a change.  Trust me, you do NOT want to miss this. Linked Here If you are looking for a creative approach to taking better care of yourself search no more.  Join the Whole Mom Bingo challenge, for FREE and receive your template to follow rather than spinning your wheels trying to figure out HOW to take care of yourself. The Whole Mom Bingo   Thanks for listening, and Happy Holidays!

If there is one thing I know for sure about moms, it's that we expect more from ourselves than anyone else does.  This is also the reason we find ourselves sick, frustrated, overwhelmed, and sometimes even angry with life and the people around us.  Tune in while I talk about the process of lowering the bar, why it is necessary, and how it will actually contribute to your growth and success much sooner.   If you are looking to explore more individualized support around this, fill out this form and we can set up a call.   Follow me on IG @ nicole_kumi or send me an email @ [email protected]

Change is hard, and understanding the process and foundation of change can make a positive impact on your situation.  Typically, when we are making changes or evolving we can start to feel overwhelmed and frustrated when things seem stagnant or not going in the direction we want them to.  Tune into my perspective on this, and learn a few tips about the process of behavior change and what you can do when you find yourself between versions of yourself, similar to an elevator stuck between floors.   Remember, you don't have to figure it all out on your own.  Book a free consultation and learn how you can make some changes.   Book Your Call Here

We get wrapped up in the idea of the "winning season" and can find ourselves frustrated when things aren't going our way, or we aren't winning at this season of motherhood.  Have you ever considered that you aren't meant to show up and compete in each season?  Have you reflected upon what season you thrive in and how you can lean into those?  Tune in to hear my position on the seasons of motherhood and how normalizing sitting out for a season might be better than always trying to show up and exhausting yourself in the process.  

Whenever I hear people say, "Tis the season" I am reminded of all of the things they could be referring to, but none more so than the biggest thief of joy there is...Holiday Stress.  That's right, it has its own seasonal box because it is different than regular stress.  The holiday stress is like the one family member who we KNOW is coming to dinner, but somehow we don't fully prepare for it and are left picking up the pieces of the tornado once they are gone.  It shows up differently, manifests differently, and typically robs moms of experiencing the true joy of the holiday season.  Tune in to find out what this looks like for you, how you can implement some boundaries with the simple tool of effective communication, and what you should be striving for during this season.   As always, if you are in need of some additional support and are interested in working with me, follow this link, and let's talk about it. 1:1 Coaching Application

You may have heard me talk before about how your physical health is directly related to your mental health status, and why it is important to understand this.  In this episode I share my recent struggle with this, how I knew it wasn't the "stomach bug" and what I plan to do moving forward.  If you are a mom who seems to be sick more often than your friends, or other people in your home, you will find some helpful tips here in understanding why this is happening to you, and what you can do about it.  Remember, the physical symptom is not always the real problem. At the end of the episode I share the fun challenge I am encouraging all of my email subscribers to join in on, and that will be released later this week for the month of November.  Trust me, you will want to get in on this healthy competition where we compete to encourage one another. Join my email list here:  www.thewholemom.com Interested in 1:1 coaching for November, fill out this form

We have all been there, or are there, at some point in our lives.  EVERY mother has experienced some form of "mom guilt" without fully understanding why it happens, what we are really feeling, and how to reduce its frequency in your life.  The less experiences you have to this "guilt" the more likely you will be to engage in healthy practices that promote self-growth, awareness, and insight, that will indirectly benefit your entire family.  Tune in to learn my theory on mom guilt, how I intercept it, and how you can do the same. As always, if you are interested in learning more about this and working on it together, fill out the application linked below.   1:1 Coaching Application