Surprise, Momma!

In this episode, Molly and Ashley break down the essentials of creating a baby registry. They share why registering is helpful, different ways to set up your registry, and offer smart tips on what’s worth borrowing versus what’s better to buy new.Follow AlongListen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTubeFollow on: Instagram and TikTokQuestions & Comments: [email protected]

In this episode, Ashley and Molly open up about their decision to keep their children's names and images private, both on the podcast and across social media. They reflect on the reasons behind their choice, discussing their conviction to safeguard and prioritize the privacy of their families online.Follow AlongListen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTubeFollow on: Instagram and TikTokQuestions & Comments: [email protected]

Ashley and Molly dive into the convenience and importance of tracking your baby’s growth, sharing their baby tracking apps they’ve used along the way!Mentioned in the episode:Nara Baby Tracker HuckleberryFollow AlongListen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTubeFollow on: Instagram and TikTokQuestions & Comments: [email protected]

This week, we’re switching up the format as we dive into five questions submitted by a soon-to-be mom! We cover everything from navigating questions with your doctor and finding childcare to including your spouse in the pregnancy stage of parenting. Tune in for thoughtful answers, practical advice, and a supportive discussion about all things pregnancy and parentingFollow AlongListen: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTubeFollow: Instagram, TikTokQuestions: [email protected]

In this episode of Surprise, Momma!. Ashley and Molly dive into the many benefits of staying active while pregnant and what being active during pregnancy looks like—and why it’s important to celebrate the movement you can do. Whether you're new to exercise or looking for ways to stay active, this episode offers perspective and tips to help you feel strong and empowered throughout your pregnancy journey.Mentioned in the episode:Exercise During Pregnancy (John Hopkins Medicine)3 Myths About Exercise and Pregnancy (John Hopkins Medicine) Exercise in Pregnancy (NHS)Follow AlongListen: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTubeFollow: Instagram, TikTokQuestions: [email protected]

If you don’t typically listen to full-length episodes, consider this your invitation to hop on that train!  This bonus episode contains 8-minutes of behind-the-scenes laughs and moments you might have missed. We're serious about covering the topics no one else does, but we also have a lot of fun along the way! Follow AlongListen: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTubeFollow: Instagram, TikTokQuestions: [email protected]

Ashley and Molly dive into the topic of Developmental Milestones—the age-old checklist that every parent loves to compare their baby to... and maybe worry about. The CDC’s guidelines might cause more stress than help if you take them too literally, so tune in to hear how they’ve navigated developmental timelines and how it's normal to feel some pressure—especially if your baby was born early. Afterall, it might just save you from a few gray hairs!Mentioned in the episode: CDC Developmental Milestones WebMD - Baby First Year Milestones Follow Along Listen:Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube Follow: Instagram, TikTok Questions: [email protected]

Attention working moms and parents on-the-go! In this bonus episode, Molly shares the game-changing tool that has made pumping at work and traveling with chilled milk a breeze: the Ceres Chill.Mentioned in the episode:Ceres Chill OG Breastmilk Chiller Follow AlongListen on:Apple Podcasts,Spotify,YouTubeFollow on:Instagram &TikTokQuestions & Comments: [email protected]

In this episode, Molly and Ashley dive into the world of birth control, discussing the various methods available, their pros and cons, and sharing their personal experiences. They also explore the unique challenges of navigating birth control before pregnancy and during the postpartum period. Join us for honest conversation and a few guaranteed laughs.Mentioned in the episode:Birth Control Options (The Cleveland Clinic)Contraceptive Statistics (CDC)Follow Along:Listen:Apple Podcasts,Spotify,YouTubeFollow:Instagram andTikTokQuestions:[email protected]

Who says your nursing bra can’t do double duty? In this bonus episode, we share a handy tip on how to turn your trusty nursing bra into a pumping bra—because who has time for more shopping (or more laundry)? Tune in for a few laughs and happy pumping!Follow AlongListen on:Apple Podcasts,Spotify,YouTubeFollow on:Instagram and TikTokQuestions & Comments:[email protected]

Let’s talk hospital bags! What to pack (and what to leave behind) is a common question, and nobody wants to be the “bag lady” — but we all want to feel comfy and prepared. In this episode, Ashley and Molly share what they packed (and didn’t pack), as well as some practical tips and advice to help you feel confident and ready for your hospital stay. Tune in for all the essentials you won’t want to forget!Follow AlongListen on:Apple Podcasts,Spotify,YouTubeFollow on:Instagram & TikTokQuestions & Comments:[email protected]

Surprise! We’re back with another Hot Take with our favorite breast therapy pads. Both Ashley and Molly used the Lansinoh pads when they were initially breastfeeding.  See link below for details!Mentioned in the episode: Lansinoh Hot & Cold Breast Therapy PacksFollow Along Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube Follow on: Instagram and TikTok Questions & Comments: [email protected]

Choosing clothes for your baby seems simple in theory, but the reality is far more complicated. Baby clothing sizes can vary wildly between brands—much like women’s pant sizes—which makes it tough for parents to know what to buy. Infants come in all shapes and sizes, so in this episode, we're diving into the world of baby clothing sizes, decoding confusing sizing labels, debating our preferences, and sharing tips on how to find the right fit when shopping for your little one.Tune in for practical advice, a few laughs, and be sure to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast if you love what you hear!Mentioned in the episode:Baby Clothes Sizes Chart and GuideWhat You Need to Know About Newborn & Baby Clothes SizesFollow AlongListen on:Apple Podcasts,Spotify,YouTubeFollow on:Instagram & TikTokQuestions & Comments:[email protected]

In this week's Round Up, Molly opens up about the refreshing energy that comes from spending quality time with friends, while Ashley hilariously navigates her daughter's new jungle gym... er, pack n play! Join the fun and laugh along as we embrace the chaos and catharsis of parenting. Whether you're an expecting mom or seasoned parent, Ashley and Molly are here to discuss the amusing, surprising and sometimes heartbreaking realities of motherhood. Join us weekly for casual, fun and honest dialogue as we unpack the hush-hush topics surrounding pregnancy, birth, postpartum and parenting. Welcome to the Surprise Momma Podcast, where we talk about the sh*t they don't tell you. Mentioned in the episode: Pack N Play Mesh Tent  Follow Along: Listen on: ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠, ⁠Spotify⁠, ⁠YouTube⁠ Follow on: ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠TikTok⁠ Questions & Comments: ⁠[email protected]

In this episode, Molly and Ashley dive into one of their most candid conversations yet: body image during pregnancy. The changes that come with pregnancy are truly miraculous, but the experience often brings up feelings that aren't typically talked about—like feeling disconnected or even resentful of your body, grappling with the pressure to "bounce back" postpartum, and navigating the intense visibility and unsolicited attention that comes with a visibly pregnant body. Join them as they explore the unspoken emotional complexities of pregnancy and body image. Follow Along Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube Follow on: Instagram and TikTok Questions & Comments: [email protected]

In today's bonus Hot Take, Ashley explains why she prefers quiet toys over noisy ones, despite the fact that noisy toys can support a child's development and learning. Tune in for this quick conversation, where Ashley also highlights one of her current favorite toys – a felt veggie set – and shares why it’s a hit in her household! Mentioned in the episode: Felt Veggie Basket (feat. Paul and Leah Arts Crafts)  Felt Fruit Basket (feat. Paul and Leah Arts Crafts)  Follow Along Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube Follow on: Instagram and TikTok Questions & Comments: [email protected]

Surprise! We’re back with another Hot Take where Molly talks Haaka’s and Milk Catchers. See the link below for details!  Mentioned in the episode: Boon Trove Milk Catcher Follow Along Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube Follow on: Instagram and TikTok Questions & Comments: [email protected]

It’s Roundup time! We’re back for another bonus episode featuring quick, humorous recaps of events and parenting surprises. This week, Ashley humors us as she recaps a story about a childhood item we all know and love: crayons. Come join the huddle and experience the catharsis as we laugh at ourselves and the reality of parenting! Whether you're an expecting mom or seasoned parent, Ashley and Molly are here to discuss the amusing, surprising and sometimes heartbreaking realities of motherhood. Join us weekly for casual, fun and honest dialogue as we unpack the hush-hush topics surrounding pregnancy, birth, postpartum and parenting. Welcome to the Surprise Momma Podcast, where we talk about the sh*t they don't tell you. Follow Along: Listen on: ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠, ⁠Spotify⁠, ⁠YouTube⁠ Follow on: ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠TikTok⁠ Questions & Comments: ⁠[email protected]

In this episode, Molly and Ashley dive into the experience of "Sundown Scaries" – the sudden, overwhelming feeling of dread and anxiety that can hit when the sun goes down. From the unsettling fear of safety to the overwhelming thoughts about what could go wrong during the night, they discuss how these emotions can surface as the day ends. Molly shares her personal struggle with Sundown Scaries, revealing how it affected her in the early months and how she still deals with it today. Together, they offer tips for coping with these intense feelings that are all too common for new parents.  Mentioned in the episode:  What Are the Sunset or Sundown Scaries? It May Be More Common Than You Think (Parents.com) Follow Along: Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube Follow on: Instagram and TikTok Questions & Comments: [email protected]

Surprise! We’re back with another Hot Take where Ashley shares her favorite baby activity center! There are so many products on the market to choose from but the Skip Hop Baby Activity Center grows  with your baby as their needs and activities mature!  See the link below for details and happy playing!  Mentioned in the episode: Skip Hop Baby Activity Center Follow Along Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube Follow on: Instagram and TikTok Questions & Comments: [email protected]

We’re back to wrap up our two-part series discussing various feeding methods: Breastfeeding, Pumping, and Formula. In this episode, Ashley and Molly break down the pros and cons of each method while sharing their personal experiences—revealing all the things no one told them! Whether you’re considering breastfeeding, exploring pumping, or looking into formula feeding, this episode offers a balanced perspective on the benefits and challenges to each approach. Join us for an honest conversation sprinkled with laughter, tips, and the reality of feeding your baby. Mentioned in the episode:  Breastfeeding Information & Benefits - CDC Breastfeeding Information & Facts - Western Missouri Medical Center Pumping & Storing Breastmilk - U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services 6 Baby Formula Facts & Myths - MilkDrunk Wet Nurses, A History of Infant Feeding - National Library of Medicine Resources:  Aeroflow Breastpumps - Check Your Eligibility Follow Along Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube Follow on: Instagram and TikTok Questions & Comments: [email protected]

In this two-part series, we’re exploring the various ways to feed your baby – focusing on Breastfeeding, Pumping, and Formula. In this first episode, we dive into the facts, history, and statistics behind these feeding methods. Stay tuned for part two, where we’ll explore the pros and cons of each feeding method, and of course, share our personal stories to help you with whichever feeding method works best for you and your baby. Mentioned in the episode:  Breastfeeding Information & Benefits - CDC Breastfeeding Information & Facts - Western Missouri Medical Center Pumping & Storing Breastmilk - U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services 6 Baby Formula Facts & Myths - MilkDrunk Wet Nurses, A History of Infant Feeding - National Library of Medicine Resources:  Aeroflow Breastpumps - Check Your Eligibility Follow Along: Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube Follow on: Instagram and TikTok Questions & Comments: [email protected]

Welcome to Surprise, Momma! Hot Takes. In these short episodes we will be giving our hot takes on different baby and momma related items. This week, bibs! We will give our hot take on velcro vs. snap bibs and other bib related advice. Mentioned in the episode: Colorful Muslin Snap Bibs White Muslin Snap Bibs Whether you're an expecting mom or seasoned parent, Ashley and Molly are here to discuss the amusing, surprise and sometimes heartbreaking realities of motherhood. Join us weekly for casual, fun and honest dialogue as we unpack the hush-hush topics surrounding pregnancy, birth, postpartum and parenting. Welcome to the Surprise Momma Podcast, where we talk about the sh*t they don't tell you. Follow Along Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube Follow on: Instagram and TikTok Questions & Comments: [email protected]

In this episode, we're chatting about birth plans and why they’re a game changer for expectant parents! Molly shares her own experience with an induced labor and how her birth plan helped her navigate the twists and turns of the big day. We’ll cover how to whip up a simple one-page plan, tips for using it during labor, and the importance of staying flexible when things don’t go exactly as planned. Plus, we’ll dive into the balance between the birth you dream of and the reality you might face. Join us for some real talk on making your birthing experience as awesome as it can be! Follow Along: Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube Follow on: Instagram and TikTok Questions & Comments: [email protected]

Welcome to the Surprise Momma Roundup! Our first bonus episode featuring quick, humorous recaps of events and parenting surprises. Come join the huddle and experience the catharsis as we laugh at ourselves and the reality of parenting. Whether you're an expecting mom or seasoned parent, Ashley and Molly are here to discuss the amusing, surprising and sometimes heartbreaking realities of motherhood. Join us weekly for casual, fun and honest dialogue as we unpack the hush-hush topics surrounding pregnancy, birth, postpartum and parenting. Welcome to the Surprise Momma Podcast, where we talk about the sh*t they don't tell. Follow Along Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube Follow on: Instagram and TikTok Questions & Comments: [email protected]

Alright, Momma! We’re back with a truly special episode. This week, Ashley opens up about her experience with pregnancy loss, sharing her journey, the impact it had, and what helped her through it all. It’s a heartfelt conversation that we hope will resonate with you. Grab a cozy drink and join us! Mentioned in the episode:  Miscarriage Symptoms & Causes - Mayo Clinic Missed Miscarriage - What to Expect Follow Along Listen: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube Scroll: Instagram and TikTok Questions & Comments: [email protected]

If you’ve been pregnant before you know about all the prenatal appointments you have to go to! In this episode Molly and Ashley discuss the surprising things about these appointments. Listen to Molly and Ashley debate the size of the transducer (the internal ultrasound wand), tips on checking insurance and appointment times, as well as why Ashley never talks to moms at parks anymore. This episode is guaranteed to make you laugh and hopefully walk away with a little more information. Follow Along Listen: ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠, ⁠Spotify⁠, ⁠YouTube⁠ Scroll: ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠TikTok⁠ Questions & Comments: ⁠[email protected]

In this episode, we dive into how our stories, upbringing, priorities, finances, and beliefs all shape the choice to become a parent—or not. Join Ashley and Molly as they share their own surprising journeys to motherhood, revealing how they ended up choosing to become moms despite never thinking they’d want to. Mentioned in the episode Average Number of Children Per U.S. Family Follow Along Listen: ⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠, ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠ Scroll: ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠ Questions & Comments: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠

Molly and Ashley are back to scratch every mom’s itch for honesty! In this episode, they dive into the emotional and practical realities of returning to work after having a baby. With fresh perspectives, they explore why women decide to re-enter—or stay out of—the workforce, discussing financial needs, personal capacity, parenting values, and more. Join them for an authentic and insightful conversation about the complexities of being a working mother. Mentioned in the episode: 12 Stats about Working Women - U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Women in the Labor Force: A Databook - U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Women Workers and Their Dependents Under the 1950 Amendments Women of Working Age - Womens Bureau Follow Along Listen: ⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠, ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠ Scroll: ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠ Questions & Comments: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠

There’s a great deal of conversation regarding the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy, but is there enough chatter and forewarning about the hormonal changes that occur AFTER pregnancy? Join Ashley and Molly to hear their experiences and find out what the heck a “hormone bath” and “night sweats” have to do with it all! Mentioned in the episode: Postpartum Night Sweats: Causes & Treatments - Cleveland Clinic How Your Body Changes During Pregnancy: Hormones, Breasts & More Follow Along Listen: ⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠, ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠ Scroll: ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠ Questions & Comments: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠

Welcome to the first official episode of the Surprise, Momma! Podcast. A Motherhood centric podcast where we talk about the sh*t they don't tell you. In this episode Ashley and Molly share what surprised them most in early motherhood, highlighting their unique experiences with birth, postpartum recovery, and every parent’s right of passage: sleep deprivation. Follow Along Listen: ⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠, ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠ Scroll: ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠ Questions & Comments: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠

Whether you’re an expecting mom or seasoned parent, Ashley and Molly are here to discuss the amusing, surprising, and sometimes heartbreaking realities of motherhood. Join us weekly for casual, fun, and honest dialogue as we unpack the hush-hush topics surrounding pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and parenting. Follow Along Listen: ⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠, ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠ Scroll: ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠ Questions & Comments: ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠