That Mom

What if the stress of planning celebrations has less to do with logistics—and more to do with losing sight of what actually matters?On this episode of That Mom, I sit down with attorney, entrepreneur, and self-described "Party Therapist" Jessica Lerner Halprin, founder of Swanky, a platform designed to simplify event planning and help families celebrate life's meaningful moments.Jessica shares how losing her mother inspired her to build a business centered around connection, celebration, and memory-making. We discuss why so many mothers feel pressure around birthdays and family events, how social media has changed our expectations, and why getting clear on your true intention can completely change the way you plan.Whether you're organizing a birthday party, graduation celebration, holiday gathering, or simply trying to create more joy in everyday life, this conversation offers practical advice for celebrating without the overwhelm.What We Cover:Why celebrations matter more than we realizeThe hidden pressure mothers feel around hostingHow Pinterest and Instagram can derail your plansThe question every parent should ask before planning a partyWhy intention matters more than perfectionHow to stop inviting opinions you don't actually wantPractical advice for working with vendors and negotiating contractsAbout the GuestJessica Lerner Halprin is an attorney, entrepreneur, and founder of Swanky, a platform that helps families organize events, preserve planning details, and celebrate life's milestones with less stress and more intention.Links + ResourcesConnect with Jessica on Instagram or LinkedInCheck out SwankyFollow ThatMom: InstagramJoin the ThatMom Community: EMAILLearn more: That Mom WebsiteMaria's Style Pick:One thing helping me simplify life as a working mom? Renting instead of buying.This episode's outfit is from Rent the Runway.Try it here with 50% offIf this episode resonated, share it with a mom who has been carrying too much for too long.And if you're enjoying these conversations, follow That Mom for more thoughtful discussions about motherhood, identity, ambition, happiness, emotional well-being, and building a life that feels aligned with what matters most.

What if the way you're thinking is shaping far more of your life than you realize?On this episode of That Mom, I sit down with author and coach Laura Clifton, whose book Prosperous explores the connection between mindset, neuroscience, and personal success.Laura shares how a difficult season during the pandemic sparked a deep dive into neuroplasticity, manifestation, and the science of how our thoughts influence our experiences. What started as personal research eventually became a book, a coaching practice, and a completely new direction for her life.What We Cover:What neuroplasticity actually isWhy negative thoughts gain momentumThe surprising science behind gratitude journalingWhat the Reticular Activating System (RAS) doesWhy your brain looks for evidence of what you focus onThe power of visualizationWhy waiting until you're ready keeps so many women stuckThe concept of making a "messy start"How fear, overwhelm, and self-doubt are often your brain trying to protect youWhether you're building something new, navigating motherhood, or simply trying to feel more grounded in your daily life, this conversation offers practical tools for creating more intention, resilience, and possibility.About the Guest:Laura Clifton is the author of Prosperous and works with individuals through coaching and personal development programs focused on mindset and personal transformation.Links + Resources:Connect with Laura on InstagramLaura's Free PDF Book, Programs & MoreFollow ThatMom: InstagramJoin the ThatMom Community: EMAILLearn more: That Mom WebsiteMaria's Style Pick:One thing helping me simplify life as a working mom? Renting instead of buying.This episode's outfit is from Rent the Runway.Try it here with 50% offIf this episode resonated, share it with a mom who has been carrying too much for too long.And if you're enjoying these conversations, follow That Mom for more thoughtful discussions about motherhood, identity, ambition, happiness, emotional well-being, and building a life that feels aligned with what matters most.

If you've ever felt like you're constantly taking care of everyone else while quietly running on empty yourself—this conversation is for you.Not because you're doing motherhood wrong.Not because you need to try harder.But because somewhere along the way, many mothers learn to ignore their own needs while becoming experts at caring for everyone else's.In this episode, therapist, yoga teacher, and wellness expert Jessica Spaman shares a radically different definition of self-care—one that has nothing to do with spa days and everything to do with learning to listen to yourself again.Together, we explore why so many mothers feel overwhelmed, disconnected, and burned out, how perfectionism and people-pleasing show up in motherhood, and why understanding your emotions may be one of the most important gifts you can give both yourself and your children.This conversation isn't about adding another thing to your to-do list.It's about slowing down long enough to ask what you need, what you want, and how you can create a life that feels more aligned with who you are.What We Cover:• Why many mothers are experiencing a loneliness epidemic• How busyness keeps us disconnected from ourselves• The surprising link between perfectionism and shame• Why people-pleasing often begins long before motherhood• Jessica's powerful redefinition of self-care• The three questions every mom should ask herself daily• Why emotions live in the body—not just the mind• How to model healthy self-care for your children• Why prioritizing yourself isn't selfish—it's essentialAbout the Guest:Jessica Spaman is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, therapist, yoga teacher, personal trainer, and founder of Emotions in Motion Wellness. Through therapy, retreats, workshops, and community programming, she helps women reconnect with themselves, prioritize their well-being, and build lives rooted in greater alignment, connection, and self-compassion.Links + Resources:Connect with Jessica on InstagramVisit Emotions in Motion WellnessFollow ThatMom: InstagramJoin the ThatMom Community: EMAILLearn more: That Mom WebsiteMaria's Style Pick:One thing helping me simplify life as a working mom? Renting instead of buying.This episode's outfit is from Rent the Runway.Try it here with 50% offIf this episode resonated, share it with a mom who has been carrying too much for too long.And if you're enjoying these conversations, follow That Mom for more thoughtful discussions about motherhood, identity, ambition, happiness, emotional well-being, and building a life that feels aligned with what matters most.

If you've ever looked around at your life and thought, "How did I get here?"—this conversation is for you.Not because your life is bad.Not because you've failed.But because somewhere between work, motherhood, responsibilities, and caring for everyone else, it's easy to lose touch with yourself.In this episode, development coach Charlotte Kovacs shares why so many women find themselves living on autopilot—and how small moments of intentionality can help us reconnect with what brings us joy, energy, and fulfillment.This conversation isn't about overhauling your life or adding another thing to your to-do list.It's about quieting the noise, questioning the "shoulds," and creating space to become more intentional about how you spend your time, energy, and attention.What We Cover:• Why so many mothers feel like they're living on autopilot• The hidden "shoulds" that shape our decisions and steal our joy• How to trust yourself in a world full of parenting advice and expectations• Why balance isn't about doing everything equally• The difference between obligation and genuine alignment• How to identify what truly gives you energy• A simple practice for checking in with yourself throughout different seasons of life• Why joy doesn't have to be big to be meaningful• The role of creativity, nature, and reflection in a fulfilling life• How to stop following someone else's rules and start choosing intentionallyAbout the Guest:Charlotte Kovacs is a development coach who helps people grow into the person they are truly meant to be. Blending life and career coaching, she works with clients to uncover limiting beliefs, reconnect with their values, and create lives that feel more aligned, purposeful, and fulfilling. She is the founder of Kovacs Coaching and creator of the Eyes on the Stars, Feet on the Ground coaching program.Links + Resources:Connect with Charlotte on LinkedInSubscribe to Charlotte's NewsletterFollow ThatMom: InstagramJoin the ThatMom Community: EMAILLearn more: That Mom WebsiteMaria's Style Picks:One thing helping me simplify life as a working mom? Renting instead of buying.This episode's outfit is from Rent the Runway.Try it here with 50% offAnd if you're enjoying these conversations, follow That Mom for more thoughtful discussions about motherhood, identity, ambition, happiness, emotional well-being, and building a life that feels aligned with what matters most.

If you've ever felt overwhelmed, intimidated, or even ashamed when it comes to money, this conversation will help you see financial confidence in a completely different way.In this episode, financial planner and podcast host Megan Dwyer shares why money feels so emotional for so many women—and how understanding your finances can become a powerful tool for reducing anxiety, increasing confidence, and creating a more intentional life.This conversation isn't about spreadsheets or perfection.It's about understanding the beliefs, emotions, and cultural messages that shape our relationship with money—and learning how to make financial decisions from a place of confidence rather than fear.What We Cover:Why so many successful women still feel anxious about moneyThe hidden beliefs about money we inherit from childhoodHow motherhood changes our relationship with financial controlWhy women often avoid financial conversationsThe connection between self-worth, shame, and spendingPractical first steps for understanding your financesHow to align spending with your values and goalsWhy financial confidence is about awareness—not perfectionThe role of self-compassion in building a healthier relationship with moneyAbout the Guest:Megan Dwyer is a Certified Financial Planner with over 20 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate financial decisions with greater confidence and clarity. She is the host of the podcast Money Isn't Scary, where she explores the emotional side of money and helps women build healthier relationships with their finances.Links + Resources:Listen to Money Isn't ScaryConnect with Megan on InstagramFollow ThatMom: InstagramJoin the ThatMom Community: EMAILLearn more: That Mom Website If this episode resonated, share it with a woman who has ever felt overwhelmed, intimidated, or alone in her financial journey.And if you're enjoying these conversations, follow That Mom for more thoughtful discussions about motherhood, identity, ambition, emotional well-being, and building a life that feels aligned with what matters most.

If motherhood has started to feel more like survival than joy, this conversation offers a gentler, more sustainable way forward.In this episode, holistic health expert Derenda Jeffrey shares thoughtful insights on emotional well-being, perfectionism, nervous system health, gratitude, and the small daily practices that help mothers feel more grounded, energized, and emotionally supported.This conversation isn’t about becoming a “better” mom.It’s about learning how to care for yourself with more grace inside the very real demands of modern motherhood.What We Cover:Why emotional health impacts physical health more than we realizeThe connection between perfectionism, stress, and exhaustionHow comparison culture affects mothers emotionallyThe science and psychology behind gratitude practicesFlexible morning routines for busy moms with limited timeSmall, sacred moments that help create a more meaningful lifeAbout the Guest:Derenda Jeffrey is a holistic health expert and wellness coach with nearly four decades of experience helping people improve their well-being through nutrition, emotional awareness, energy work, lifestyle shifts, and intentional living. Her work focuses on helping women create healthier, more grounded lives from the inside out.Links + Resources:Connect with Derenda Jeffrey OnlineFollow ThatMom: InstagramJoin the ThatMom Community: EMAILLearn more: That Mom WebsiteIf this episode resonated, share it with a mother who’s feeling overwhelmed, emotionally stretched thin, or stuck trying to do everything perfectly.And if you’re enjoying these conversations, follow That Mom for more thoughtful discussions on motherhood, emotional well-being, identity, ambition, and building a life that feels good to live.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re constantly managing everyone else’s needs while slowly losing connection to yourself, this conversation will help you rethink what it actually means to build a sustainable life.In this episode, leadership and burnout coach Laurel Boivin shares practical insights on capacity, emotional regulation, perfectionism, and why so many high-achieving women end up stuck in cycles of overwhelm.This conversation isn’t about adding more to your plate.It’s about learning how to create more ease, intention, and energy within the life you already have.What We Cover:Why “capacity” matters more than productivityThe hidden energy drains keeping moms overwhelmedHow perfectionism increases emotional exhaustionThe connection between nervous system regulation and motherhoodHow to make decisions using your core valuesSmall shifts that create more ease in daily lifeThe difference between rest and true restorationWhy slowing down can actually make life feel more manageableAbout the Guest:Laurel Boivin is a leadership and burnout coach who helps women build sustainable lives through emotional regulation, nervous system awareness, intentional leadership, and practical systems that reduce overwhelm.Links + Resources:Follow Laurel: Instagram + LinkedInListen to Laurel's Podcast or Book a CallFollow ThatMom: InstagramJoin the ThatMom Community: EMAILLearn more: That Mom WebsiteIf this episode resonated, share it with a mother who’s tired of living in constant survival mode.And if you’re enjoying these conversations, follow That Mom for more thoughtful discussions on motherhood, identity, ambition, and building a life you actually want to live.

Becoming a mother changes far more than your schedule.It changes your brain, your nervous system, your identity, your relationships, and the way you move through the world.In this episode, I sit down with El Fort of Mindful Healing Mama to talk about the invisible transition women go through when they become mothers.El introduces the concept of matrescence—the developmental transition into motherhood—and explains the science behind why motherhood can feel so emotionally, physically, and psychologically destabilizing.IIf you’ve ever felt…disconnected from yourself after becoming a momoverwhelmed by emotions you didn’t expect in motherhoodlike you should have “bounced back” by nowunsure why motherhood feels so physically and emotionally intenselike your identity shifted and no one warned youIn this conversation, we explore:what matrescence reveals about the transformation into motherhoodhow pregnancy and postpartum reshape the brain and nervous systemwhy high-achieving women often experience identity disruption after birthhow stress and regulation patterns are transmitted between parent and childthe science behind why “bouncing back” is not biologically accuratesmall, practical ways mothers can begin restoring regulation and groundingAbout the Guest:Elle Fort is a mindfulness educator, motherhood advocate, and nervous system practitioner who helps mothers regulate stress, reconnect with themselves, and break generational patterns through somatic healing and nervous system support.Links + Resources:Elle’s Website: Mindful Healing MamaFollow Elle: Instagram @mindfulhealingmamaFollow ThatMom: InstagramJoin the ThatMom Community: EMAILLearn more: That Mom WebsiteIf this episode validated you, share it with a mom who needs it too.And if you’re loving these conversations, follow the show so you never miss an episode of That Mom.

If you’ve ever felt like motherhood put your dreams on pause, this conversation will remind you that your story is still unfolding—and that success can grow alongside motherhood, not after it.In this deeply inspiring conversation, legendary Boston radio personality and storyteller Candy O'Terry shares what interviewing nearly 1,000 women has taught her about ambition, motherhood, resilience, joy, and living up to your potential.From raising her children as a single mom while working overnight radio shifts, to interviewing icons like Mariah Carey, Candy brings wisdom, warmth, and unforgettable stories to this conversation.What We Cover:Why motherhood has “chapters”—and how to embrace each seasonWhat Candy learned raising children while building a major radio careerThe power of having just one person believe in youWhy relationships are everything in both life and careerWhat nearly 1,000 women taught Candy about successWhy women often underestimate themselvesThe importance of resilience for both moms and childrenHow adversity can become a powerful teacherCandy’s favorite interviews—including Mariah Carey and the heartbreaking story of Maggie BishThe lesson behind Candy’s “Rose Lady from Boston” storyWhy success takes time—and why humility mattersThe joy found in striving toward your potentialWhat it means to “slow down to the speed of joy”About the Guest:Candy O'Terry is an award-winning broadcaster, singer, author, and host of the podcast The Story Behind Her Success. Over the course of her career, she has interviewed nearly 1,000 women, sharing stories of resilience, leadership, creativity, and transformation.Key Insight:“Motherhood has chapters too.”Candy’s story is a reminder that success and motherhood are not competing identities. They evolve together. Joy can coexist with struggle. Resilience can be taught. And sometimes the climb itself—not just the destination—is where the meaning lives.Links + Resources:Candy O'Terry WebsiteListen to The Story Behind Her SuccessCandy’s MusicNelson’s Garden Books: Instagram + AmazonFollow Candy on InstagramFollow ThatMom: InstagramJoin the ThatMom Community: EMAILLearn more: That Mom WebsiteIf this episode encouraged you, share it with a mom who needs the reminder that she is not behind—and that every chapter of motherhood holds meaning.And if you’re loving these conversations, follow the show so you never miss an episode of That Mom.

You might feel overwhelmed by AI—but avoiding it may be riskier than learning it.Right now, AI is changing the way we work, communicate, parent, and make decisions. And while many women are still hesitant to engage with it, the people learning how to use these tools today are helping shape the future for everyone else.If you’ve ever thought:“AI feels intimidating.”“Is this something I actually need to understand?” — this episode is for you.Because this isn’t just about technology.It’s about protecting your future, reclaiming your time, and making sure moms have a voice in the conversations shaping the next generation.In this episode, I sit down with Shreya Gulati, founder of Moms Build AI, to break down what AI actually means for moms—and why learning to use it now could become one of the biggest advantages for your family, career, and everyday life.What We Cover:Why women and moms are adopting AI more slowly than menThe career risks of ignoring AI as workplaces rapidly changeThe shocking statistic about how much code AI is already writingWhy prompt engineering is becoming a critical modern skillBeginner-friendly ways to start using ChatGPT and ClaudePractical AI tools for simplifying mom lifeUsing AI for planning, organization, communication, and mental loadGuardrails for kids using AI at home and in schoolHow to raise critical thinkers in an AI-driven worldWhy moms deserve a seat at the table shaping the future of AIAbout the Guest:Shreya Gulati is the founder of Moms Build AI, a platform helping moms understand, use, and build with AI in practical, approachable ways. Through education, resources, and community, she empowers women to confidently navigate the rapidly changing future of technology and work.Links + Resources:Moms Build AI: InstagramMoms Build AI FREE Resources: WebsiteFollow ThatMom: InstagramJoin the ThatMom Community: EMAILLearn more: That Mom WebsiteIf this episode resonated, send it to a mom who’s curious about AI—but doesn’t know where to start—and follow the show so you don’t miss what’s coming next.

You don’t need to overhaul your life to feel better.Most moms don’t need more wellness information—they need realistic changes that actually fit into real life.In this episode, I sit down with wellness consultant Danielle D’Ambrogio to talk about the small everyday swaps that can have a surprisingly big impact on your energy, sleep, hormones, and overall health—without adding overwhelm.If you’ve ever wondered:“Where do I even start with low-tox living?” …this episode is for you.Because this isn’t about perfection.It’s about creating a healthier environment for yourself and your family—one manageable change at a time.What We Cover:The biggest toxin exposures hiding in everyday productsThe wellness swaps Danielle prioritizes firstWhy filtered water matters more than most people realizeThe truth about plastics, fragrance, cookware, and activewearSimple sleep and nervous system habits for busy momsWhy small changes create lasting health benefitsHow to approach wellness without fear or perfectionismAbout the Guest:Danielle D’Ambrosio is a Home Wellbeing Architect who helps women create healthier, lower-toxin homes and routines through realistic, sustainable changes that support long-term wellness.Links + Resources:Danielle's Website for Free Guide: homewellnessarchitect.comFollow Danielle: Instagram + Substack + LinkedinFollow ThatMom: InstagramJoin the ThatMom Community: EMAILLearn more: That Mom WebsiteIf this episode resonated, send it to a mom who wants to feel healthier—but doesn’t have time for complicated wellness routines.

You’re not fighting about what you think you are.Most high-functioning couples aren’t stuck because they’re incompatible—they’re stuck in a pattern they don’t see.If you’ve ever thought: “How are we having this exact same argument again?”—this episode is for you.Because it’s not about the dishes, the tone, or even what was said.It’s about the cycle you’re stuck in—and how to get out of it.In this episode, I sit down with certified sex and couples therapist Rebecca Eudy, author of Parents in Love, to break down what’s actually happening inside your relationship after kids—and how to reconnect without needing more time, energy, or perfect conditions.What We Cover:Why couples repeat the same fights after kids (and how to recognize your pattern)The most common dynamic: pursuer vs. withdrawerWhy conflict isn’t the problem—getting stuck isThe shift from blaming your partner → to blaming the cycleWhy “being right” keeps you disconnectedSimple ways to reconnect through micro-moments (that take seconds)How to prioritize your relationship without adding more to your plateThe truth about desire after kids—and why nothing is “wrong”About the Guest:Rebecca Eudy is a certified sex and couples therapist and author of Parents in Love, A Guide to Great Sex After Kids. She helps couples break negative patterns, rebuild connection, and create more fulfilling relationships—especially in the season of parenting.Links + Resources:Rebecca’s book: Parents in LoveRebecca's Podcast: Under the Hood PodcastConnect with Rebecca: WebsiteFollow Rebecca: InstagramFollow ThatMom: InstagramJoin the ThatMom Community: EMAILLearn more: That Mom WebsiteIf this episode resonated, send it to your partner—or a mom who’s in it with you—and follow the show so you don’t miss what’s coming next.

Parenting isn’t instinctual—but most of us were never taught that.In this episode, I sit down with parenting coach Mel Pierce to break down what’s actually driving your child’s behavior—and how to respond in a way that is calm, effective, and grounded.If you’ve ever felt reactive, overwhelmed, or like you “should” be handling things better—this conversation will give you a more intelligent framework to work from.What We Cover:Why parenting is a skill set—not something you’re supposed to “just know”The brain science behind your child’s behavior (and why it matters)What’s really happening when you feel triggered or reactiveHow to stay neutral and avoid escalation in high-stress momentsWhy emotional regulation is the foundation for everything elsePractical ways to reduce overwhelm and create more calm in your dayReleasing unrealistic standards and redefining what “good” parenting looks likeAbout the Guest:Mel Pierce is a parenting coach focused on helping mothers regulate their responses, understand behavior through a neuroscience lens, and build more intentional, connected family dynamics.Links + Resources:Connect with Mel: [email protected] Mel: InstagramBook Mentioned: The Whole-Brain ChildMel's Free Confident Parenting Community EmailFollow ThatMom: InstagramJoin the email list: EMAILLearn more: That Mom WebsiteIf this episode resonated, share it with a mom who values doing motherhood with intention—and follow the show so you don’t miss what’s coming next.

Motherhood today can feel incredibly lonely—even when it looks like you have everything together.In this episode, Crissy Fishbane, co-founder of HER Health Collective, shares how community and trusted experts can help moms navigate the overwhelm of not knowing who to turn to—and why what moms really need isn’t more advice… it’s to be witnessed.What We Cover:Why moms don’t need to be solved—they need to be seen and supportedThe loneliness that exists beneath the surface of “having it all together”How not knowing who to trust creates overwhelm in motherhoodHow to actually build meaningful, authentic friendships as a momHow to intentionally create a life that fills your cupKeeping work and responsibilities from taking over your joyLetting go of societal expectations and choosing what truly matters to youAbout the Guest:Crissy Fishbane is the co-founder of HER Health Collective, a community designed to support moms through expert-led resources and meaningful connection. After experiencing her own season of loneliness in motherhood, Crissy set out to create a space where no mom would feel as alone as she once did. Her work focuses on helping women build authentic relationships, access trusted support, and live more intentionally.Links + Resources:HER Health Collective: WebsiteFollow: Crissy + HER Health CollectiveJoin the email list: EMAILLearn More: That Mom WebsiteIf this episode resonated, send it to a mom who needs to hear it—and follow the show so you don’t miss what’s coming next.

If you feel like you’re carrying the entire mental load of your family—this episode will change how you think about parenting.Nicole Gambino shares a simple but powerful shift: moving responsibility from the mom back to the child… and what happens when you do.What We Cover:Why moms end up managing everything in the householdThe hidden cost of over-functioning for your kidsWhat “rituals and guardrails” actually look like in real lifeHow to get kids to take ownership (without constant nagging)Why independence builds confidence—not distanceSmall shifts that create more capable, responsible childrenAbout the Guest:Nicole Gambino is a parenting expert with 17 years of experience helping families create structure, independence, and confidence at home. She has developed a system of rituals and guardrails designed to shift responsibility off of parents and onto children—empowering kids to become more capable while easing the mental load on moms.Key Insight:Nicole’s approach flips a common parenting pattern: instead of moms holding everything together, children are given the structure and responsibility to step up—creating a more balanced, sustainable family dynamic.Links + Resources:Follow Nicole: Instagram + FacebookLearn more about her work: NicoleGambino.comFollow me: InstagramJoin the email list: EMAILIf this episode made you rethink how much you’re carrying, share it with a friend—and follow the show for more conversations like this.

If you’ve ever thought, “I know something needs to change—but I don’t even know what I want or where to start,” this episode is for you.Former Harvard Business School career coach Becca Carnahan shares practical, actionable tools to help moms get clarity—and actually ask for what they need at work and in life.What We Cover:Why career confusion is so common after having kidsHow to define your personal “criteria” for a fulfilling career and lifeThe biggest mistake people make when trying to make a changeHow to ask for what you want at work (with real examples)Why clarity comes from action—not overthinkingHow small shifts can create major changes in your day-to-day lifeAbout the Guest:Becca Carnahan is a former Harvard Business School career coach who now helps moms navigate career transitions with clarity and confidence. She is the author of When Mommy Grows Up: Finding Career Clarity While Covered in Kids, where she blends practical strategy with the realities of modern motherhood.Key Insight:Becca’s approach is grounded in action—helping women move out of indecision and into small, intentional steps that create real momentum in both career and life.Links + Resources:Work with Becca: Next Chapter CareersFollow Becca: InstagramGet her book: When Mommy Grows UpFollow me: InstagramJoin the email list: EMAILIf you’ve been feeling stuck or unsure what’s next, share this episode with a friend—and follow the show so you don’t miss what’s coming next.

If you’ve ever felt like what used to work in your life just… doesn’t anymore—you’re not alone.In this episode, burnout coach Christine Anastasia explains why motherhood changes everything—and why you can’t problem-solve your way out of burnout.What We Cover:Why burnout in motherhood is differentThe breaking point: when old strategies stop workingWhy you can’t logic your way out of burnoutThe grief of losing your “old self”How your energy impacts your entire familyWhat it actually looks like to access a better version of yourselfAbout the Guest:Christine Anastasia is a burnout coach who helps overwhelmed moms move out of survival mode and into a more sustainable, energized way of living.Links + Resources:Work with Christine: Christine Anastasia CoachingFollow Christine: Christine on InstagramFollow me: InstagramJoin the email list: EMAILLearn More: That Mom WebsiteIf this episode hit home, share it with a friend—and make sure you’re following the show for more conversations like this.

Many moms are quietly asking themselves the same question: Am I doing a good job?In this episode, Karen Johnson—known as the “21st Century Stay-at-Home Mom”—shares a perspective that challenges the pressure, the expectations, and the constant feeling that we should be doing more.What We Cover:Why so many moms feel like they’re not “doing enough”The cultural pressure behind perfection in motherhoodThe question that changes everything: What do I want to be when they grow up?Why your identity matters just as much as your children’s outcomesHer strong stance against the beauty + diet industry and how it impacts momsThe simple but powerful truth more moms need to hear: you’re likely already doing a good jobAbout the Guest:Karen Johnson is known as the “21st Century Stay-at-Home Mom,” where she shares honest reflections on motherhood, identity, and modern family life. She is the author of What Do I Want to Be When They Grow Up?, a book that invites moms to consider their own growth alongside their children’s.Key Insight (this is subtle but powerful to include):Karen challenges the idea that motherhood should come at the expense of self—encouraging women to reject unrealistic beauty standards and redefine success in a way that feels aligned and sustainable.Links + Resources:Follow Karen: @21stcenturysahmGet her book: What do I Want to Be When They Grow UpFollow me: @thatmom_thepodcastJoin the email list: EMAILIf this episode made you feel seen, share it with another mom who needs that reminder—and follow the show for more conversations like this.

Motherhood today comes with invisible rules—and impossible standards.In this episode, Dr. Lynn O’Brien Hallstein breaks down the cultural systems shaping how we define a “good” mom… and why so many women feel like they’re failing.What We Cover:Why motherhood feels so high-pressure (and where that pressure actually comes from)How media + culture define the “good” vs. “bad” momThe hidden expectation that moms must do everything and look good doing itWhy this isn’t an individual problem—it’s systemicHow to start thinking differently about your role as a motherAbout the Guest:Dr. Lynn O’Brien Hallstein is a professor of rhetoric and the author of Bikini-Ready Moms, along with other works exploring motherhood, identity, and cultural expectations placed on women. Her research focuses on how societal narratives shape women’s lived experiences.Links + Resources:Find Dr. Lynn O'Brien Hallstein: Boston UniversityFollow me: InstagramJoin the email list: EMAILLearn More: That Mom WebsiteIf this episode resonated, send it to a mom who needs to hear it—and follow the show so you don’t miss what’s coming next.

This isn’t another podcast about becoming a better mom.It’s about becoming a more alive one.If you’ve ever found yourself wondering where you went in the middle of motherhood—between the schedules, the expectations, the invisible mental load—this space is for you.That Mom is a podcast for women who love their children deeply… but refuse to believe that losing themselves is part of the deal.Here, we talk honestly about what motherhood really feels like—the joy, the identity shifts, the overwhelm, and the quiet moments of questioning we don’t always say out loud.And then we explore something different: how to live with more intention, more meaning, and more honesty about what you actually want your life to look like.This is not about doing more.It’s about living better.If that resonates, hit follow—because this is just the beginning.