Is A Mother

Pausing is a Mother! All too often, we get in the habit of pushing onward without pausing to reflect on how far we’ve come, acknowledging the bumps we’ve navigated to achieve our goals, and celebrating all the wonderful things that happened along the way. On episode 24 of ___ Is a Mother, we take our own advice to pause and reflect on our wins and lessons from 2024 so we can look ahead to what’s on the horizon for us, personally, professionally, and for the podcast in 2025. In the final episode of Season 2, we: Highlight some of our most cherished moments from last year. Discuss areas of personal and professional growth we experienced in 2024.Give updates on our boys: how the new schools are going, and celebrating their (and our) growth over the last year. Update our community on Jamie’s upcoming surgery and continued journey of healing. Spill the tea on what’s in store for the future of the podcast. Hitting the pause button can be a powerful act of self-care. As we close out Season 2 of the podcast, we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to you for being on this journey with us, and we encourage you to take a pause and celebrate your wins, as well. Especially at this moment in time (February 2025), self-care is extremely important to stay well and resilient. Communities are critical for lifting each individual up so that no one person falls, and collectively, we will rise. As much as you can – check in on your friends. Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please share on Instagram and tag us! Follow, rate, and review the podcast, and tell us your key takeaways. If there are topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode, we’re all ears. Thanks for being part of our inner circle and an important part of this community. Go call your best friend!CONNECT WITH US:@_IsAMotherpodcast on InstagramYouTubeWork with Jamie! LINKS MENTIONED:Ep 22: Breast Cancer is a MotherThe Garden Within by Dr. Anita Phillips 

Overcoming limiting beliefs is a Mother! Society puts forward unsustainable and often unattainable ideas of who we should be and what we should accomplish, setting us up for failure and on a path to burnout. These unrealistic expectations can lead to a host of limiting beliefs, keeping us from reaching our full potential and living our best and healthiest lives. In episode 23 of ___ Is a Mother, we are joined by Audrey Rose, a self-worth empowerment mentor, to discuss what limiting beliefs are, where they stem from, and how we can use her RISE process to overcome them. Some of the talking points we go over in this episode include:What the R.I.S.E. (Recognize, Interrogate, Shift, and Evolve) method is, and how to use it to overcome limiting beliefs. RISE is an ongoing process that requires constant attention and self-work. An important part of that is rest!Giving yourself grace is also important, especially towards the end of the year when expectations are often heightened. How to set realistic, sustainable goals for the new year while leaving space for rejuvenation. Regardless of any inner thoughts that may feel like they are holding you back at the moment, remember that you are worthy. You do not need to fit any societal mold. You get to choose your own path!Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please share on Instagram and tag us! Follow, rate, and review the podcast, and tell us your key takeaways. If there are topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode, we’re all ears. Thanks for being part of our inner circle and an important part of this community. Go call your best friend!CONNECT WITH AUDREY:WebsiteInstagram90 Days of Self-Love JournalReady to Rise Podcast YouTubeCONNECT WITH US:@_IsAMotherpodcast on InstagramYouTubeWork with Jamie! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:The Power of Habit by Charles DuhiggRest is Resistance by Tricia Hersey (also see her Rest Deck!)Atomic Habits by James Clear Calm Mama Retreats

Breast Cancer is a Mother! In honor of breast cancer awareness month, I (Jamie) had the pleasure of sitting down with my mother, a 3x breast cancer survivor herself, as we get vulnerable on how breast cancer has impacted our lives. In episode 22 of ___ Is a Mother, we discuss how our breast cancer journey affected us as we were going through it, as well as having to watch the other one fight through it. Some of the talking points we go over in this episode include:Our individual breast cancer journeys, from how we were diagnosed to our treatment plans and the ongoing measures we take to monitor our health.The importance of leaning on your community of family, friends, and your medical team as you navigate this journey. Leading with positivity while acknowledging and leaving space for all of the other emotions (fear, anger, uncertainty) that come up. Encouraging you to be proactive with your healthcare through regular screenings, self-exams, and genetic testing if possible.  As we close out Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we want to encourage you to be proactive with your health. Get your routine testing done and continue to do self-exams in between. You have nothing to lose but a life if you don’t do it.  Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please share on Instagram and tag us! Follow, rate, and review the podcast, and tell us your key takeaways. If there are topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode, we’re all ears. Thanks for being part of our inner circle and an important part of this community. Go call your best friend!CONNECT WITH US:@_IsAMotherpodcast on InstagramYouTubeWork with Jamie! LINKS MENTIONED:Limited Edition Maxine EMOVE Walking Shoes BRCA Strong NonprofitFORCE (Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered)American Cancer Society

Modern parenting is a mother! As parents, there is so much we have to navigate and many difficult conversations that we need to have, and let’s be real– it’s not easy!We often talk on the podcast about the importance of leaning on your community during this challenging parenting era, so when we connected with the ladies from Calm Mama Retreats for a collaboration, we knew it was meant to be. Imagine- a sanctuary for moms who need a break to focus on themselves for once and rediscover who they are, other than “Mom.” On episode 21 of ___ Is a Mother, we recorded live with a group of women from the Calm Mama Retreat–some long-time friends, some we had just met that weekend–to discuss the unique challenges and nuances of modern parenting, particularly around creating an environment to keep our children safe while allowing them the autonomy and confidence to explore and make decisions on their own. Some of the talking points we go over in this episode include:Using anatomical terms when talking to our children about their bodies and providing a safe and trusted space for children to explore and understand their bodies, physically and emotionally. Trusting your parental instinct when it comes to your child’s safety and well-being.Thoughts and opinions on anxiety and boundaries around sleepovers and balancing trust in other families to care for your child. The importance of equipping children with the skills they need to navigate the world, making their own choices and mistakes along the way.The positive impact of finding community with other moms (like in Calm Mama retreats!) to create a space for self-care and authentic connection. Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please share on Instagram and tag us! Follow, rate, and review the podcast, and tell us your key takeaways. If there are topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode, we’re all ears. Thanks for being part of our inner circle and an important part of this community. Go call your best friend!CONNECT WITH US:@_IsAMotherpodcast on InstagramYouTubeWork with Jamie! CONNECT WITH CALM MAMA:Calm Mama Wellness RetreatsInstagramLINKS MENTIONED:Muna Coffee - use “ISAMOTHER” promo code for 10% offWellmane BeautyRachael Allex Photography (Sacramento, CA)Speaking Spiritually with Amy and Felix LeeMy Body, My Self for Boys by Lynda MadarasMy Body, My Self for Girls by Lynda MadarasLove and Logic

Back to school is a Mother! The start of a new school year can be a whirlwind of emotions for both parents and kids, especially when starting at a new school. We can spend all the time in the world planning and preparing, but the reality is that sometimes things don’t pan out the way we expected. On episode 20 of ___ Is a Mother, we’re sharing how our boys are adjusting to their new schools, the tears and triumphs we’ve gone through thus far, and how we, as parents, are balancing our new routines while trying to maintain our own self-care. Some of the talking points we go over in this episode include:An update on how our little ones are adjusting to the transition into a new school. The challenges of making sure our kids are eating well and sleeping enough as they navigate their increased independence. Predictions we have for our kids by the end of the school year. How we as parents are managing our own routines and maintaining (or not maintaining) our self-care.Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please share on Instagram and tag us! Follow, rate, and review the podcast, and tell us your key takeaways. If there are topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode, we’re all ears. Thanks for being part of our inner circle and an important part of this community. Go call your best friend!CONNECT WITH US:@_IsAMotherpodcast on InstagramYouTubeWork with Jamie! LINKS MENTIONED:Ep 18: Kindergarten Readiness is a MotherEp 13: Self-Care is a Mother10 Questions to Ask Your Kid Instead of, “How was School?”Calm Mama Wellness RetreatsNut-Free Oatmeal Energy Bites RecipeWavelength Protein

Self-love is a Mother! As mothers, we often lose sight of ourselves, especially once the school year starts and our world revolves around our children’s schedules. But as the saying goes, it’s important to remember to put on your own oxygen mask before helping others. That is exactly what we are doing by collaborating with Calm Mama Wellness Retreats for an upcoming retreat! Come get your Self Love on with us, mamas!On episode 19 of ___ Is a Mother, we discuss how our summers have been so far and a look inside the upcoming Calm Mama Wellness Retreat we are attending with some of our listeners! Some of the talking points we go over in this episode include:The importance of intentional self-care and finding support through a community of like-minded mamas. What we are personally looking forward to the most about the Calm Mama Retreat this September.A look into some of the activities and workshops the retreat offers (sound bath! vision board! massage! head shots!).Join us for the Calm Mama Wellness Retreat September 27-29, 2024 in Castro Valley, CA. Use promo code “ISAMOTHER” for a special listener discount of $499 off! Space is limited and there are only a few spots left — grab yours asap.Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please share on Instagram and tag us! Follow, rate, and review the podcast, and tell us your key takeaways. If there are topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode, we’re all ears. Thanks for being part of our inner circle and an important part of this community. Go call your best friend!CONNECT WITH US:@_IsAMotherpodcast on InstagramWork with Jamie! LINKS MENTIONEDEp 18: Kindergarten Readiness is a Mother with Leigh FitzgeraldEp 9: Labeling Kids is a Mother with Dr. Nekeshia HammondEp 17: AI is a Mother with Stephanie LeBlanc-Godfrey

Kindergarten readiness is a Mother! As parents, we want to do everything in our control to get our kids ready to enter Kindergarten, but what does it mean to be “Kindergarten ready”? Our guest Leigh Fitzgerald is a veteran Kindergarten teacher from San Diego, CA, and she joins us on the podcast to explain that Kindergarten readiness is less about knowing ABCs and 123s, and more about helping your kids be excited to be there and empowering agency.  In episode 18 of ___ Is a Mother, we discuss the social, emotional, and academic skills kids need entering Kindergarten, and what parents can do to support their child (& their teacher) during a successful school year. Some of the talking points we go over in this episode include:The social and emotional benefits for children who attend any schooling outside of the home before Kindergarten. Because of this, kids are entering Kindergarten with a higher level of skills and development than ever before.What Kindergarten readiness really looks like, beyond the ABCs and 123s.Technology is revolutionizing the way kids learn, and parents & teachers connect. How to effectively communicate with and build relationships with your child’s teacher. Ideas to show your child’s teacher how much you appreciate them. Episode corrections from Leigh:In California, Transitional Kindergarten (TK) started in 2012 (not 2010, as mentioned). For the 2024-2025 school year, kids who turn 5 between September 2 and June 2 are eligible for Universal TK (UTK) in California. iReady is used in 600 districts in California (not all of them).Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please share on Instagram and tag us! Follow, rate, and review the podcast, and tell us your key takeaways. If there are topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode, we’re all ears. Thanks for being part of our inner circle and an important part of this community. Go call your best friend!CONNECT WITH US:@_IsAMotherpodcast on InstagramWork with Jamie! LINKS MENTIONED:Calm Mama Wellness Retreats – Use “ISAMOTHER” discount code for $499 off!

AI is a mother! Although it feels like AI is this new thing that popped up on the scene in recent years, it has been integrated into our daily lives through the products and services we have used for many years. Much of the information and resources for chatbot-based AI platforms focus on how business owners and creators can leverage this technology to streamline their tasks and uplevel their strategies. However, there hasn’t been anything specifically for moms desperately needing a reprieve from their growing mental (and physical) workload. Until now! In Episode 17 of ___ is a Mother, Stephanie LeBlanc-Godfrey joins us to discuss how she set out to change this with Mother AI, sharing tools, prompts, and ideas that parents can implement to make their lives easier and lessen their “invisible load”, as well as responsibility guiding their kids’ tech journeys. Some of the talking points we go over in this episode include:Creative ways AI can be used to help kids with homework, explain complex topics in an age-appropriate way, plan meals, maintain the home, and streamline life.AI is not here to stifle creativity, but rather to change how we spark creative expression and bring it to life. While AI is changing the landscape of many jobs, workers can gain new skills with or related to AI to transition to new opportunities and adapt as technology evolves.Further development in these tools is necessary to address potential bias in language models and decision-making tools. If we use AI to help tackle 80% of the things on our plates, we can focus our remaining energy on the 20% of what is truly the most important. Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag us! Follow, rate, and review the podcast, and tell us your key takeaways! If there are topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode, please let us know. Thanks for being part of our inner circle and an important part of this community. Go call your best friend!CONNECT WITH STEPHANIE:LinkedIn NewsletterInstagramStephanie LeBlanc-Godfrey’s website, and sign up for the Mother AI LinkedIn newsletterJoin the Waitlist for the Mother AI 101 webinar, and join the AI revolution!CONNECT WITH US:@_IsAMotherpodcast on InstagramWork with Jamie! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Level Leaders WebsiteIG: @LetsLevelChatGPTGoogle GeminiAnthropic AIMicrosoft Copilot AIChat Black GPT BetaErin Reddick LinkedIn- creator of Chat Black GPTAI Tool to make artwork come to life

Toxic positivity is a Mother! It’s a topic that most of us can probably relate to as Western society has ingrained in us that we should be “likable” and aim to be positive all the time. An important disclaimer: we are by no means anti-positivity. We recognize the importance of creating space for all emotions. Sometimes life is hard, and to overcome challenges we need to acknowledge them, and take appropriate action to work through them, authentically. In episode 16 of ___ Is a Mother, we discuss why making space for all emotions is important to avoid “toxic positivity”, and paying attention to the language we use when encouraging ourselves, others, and children. Some of the talking points we go over in this episode include:The toxic positivity we experienced when trying to get pregnant, and during Jamie’s cancer journey.Toxic positivity, although well-intended, can minimize people’s struggles and close the door to connection.  The toxic positivity we unintentionally pass onto our children by rewarding happy behaviors and failing to consider the implications of affirmations that aren’t rooted in values, feasibility, and action. Aligning our authentic selves and our social (influenced) selves can help us live with purpose.Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please share on Instagram and tag us! Follow, rate, and review the podcast, and tell us your key takeaways. If there are topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode, we’re all ears. Thanks for being part of our inner circle and an important part of this community. Go call your best friend!CONNECT WITH US:@_IsAMotherpodcast on InstagramWork with Jamie! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:The Momwell Podcast Ep. 145: How to deal with toxic positivity as a Mom with Whitney Goodman, Marriage and Family TherapistToxic Positivity by Dr. Whitney GoodmanLibby - link your local library card membership number!Finding Your Own North Star by Martha Beck

Estate planning is a mother! It can feel morbid to think about but when our time comes, the best thing we can leave behind for our loved ones is a roadmap for who will take care of our kids, how we want our assets dispersed, and who we have designated to make decisions on our behalf.On episode 15 of ___ Is a Mother, we are joined by Jillian Cardona, the founding attorney of Peace of Mind Planning, to discuss what estate planning is, the right time to start estate planning, when to review and update your plans, and how to make the process as easy as possible for your loved ones. Some of the talking points we go over in this episode include:The difference between an estate and a trust (and all the elements that go into each).Taking inventory of your assets is best handled by your “A-Team”, composed of your CPA, financial advisor, and estate planning attorney.Advice for avoiding probate court and ensuring all of your assets go to the people you intend them to go to– without years of fighting for it.Digital executors are becoming more common to handle digital assets like e-mail accounts and social media profiles.Encouraging someone to think about estate planning can be sensitive and tricky, but it is necessary and provides peace of mind. *The information presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and not to be taken as legal advice. Jillian is licensed in the State of California. Estate planning laws may differ by state. To ensure your estate plan reflects your wishes and complies with the laws of your jurisdiction, consult with a qualified estate planning attorney licensed in your state. Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag us! Follow, rate, and review the podcast, and tell us your key takeaways! If there are topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode, please let us know. Thanks for being part of our inner circle and an important part of this community. Go call your best friend!CONNECT WITH JILLIAN CARDONA: Peace of Mind PlanningEmail: [email protected] WITH US:@_IsAMotherpodcast on InstagramWork with Jamie! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Ep 10: Financial Planning is a Mother with Karen Holloway, Financial Advisor

Tracking milestones can be a Mother. And as time starts to feel like it’s going by quicker and quicker, we can forget many of the things we have gone through to get to where we are. Reflecting on our milestones, as women and as parents, is a way to reminisce on the good and celebrate how we overcame challenges, big, small, and everything in between. In episode 14 of ___ Is a Mother, we discuss parent and child milestones, reflecting on how far we and our little ones have come. And don’t get it twisted – celebrating milestones is important for everyone, not just parents! Some of the talking points we go over in this episode include:Reflecting on our parenting milestones and celebrating our growth as mothers. Trusting your instincts when it comes to developmental milestones in children.Comparing and contrasting our experiences with breastfeeding, sleep training, sickness, and balancing work and family. Finding balance between sticking to your self-made “rules” as a parent and savoring in the sweet moments while your child is still little. Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag us! Follow, rate, and review the podcast, and tell us your key takeaways! If there are topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode, please let us know. Thanks for being part of our inner circle and an important part of this community. Go call your best friend!CONNECT WITH US:@_IsAMotherpodcast on InstagramWork with Jamie! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Ep 3: Returning to Work After Giving Birth is a Mother Ep 9: Labeling Kids is a Mother with Dr. Nekeshia HammondSecurely Attached podcast episode:Combating milestone anxiety: What to know about child development from pediatrician Dr. Jessica Hochman with Pediatrician Dr. Jessica Hochman*while I also love the Curious Neuron podcast, this is the episode I meant to reference in the episode

Self-care is a mother! Consumerism has hijacked the concept of self-care and turned it into a multi-billion(!) dollar industry, marketing ‘quick fixes’ that are in actuality fleeting external care. External self-care can feel good in the moment but needs to be paired with the hard work of internal self-care (e.g., therapy) to truly elevate your well-being.In episode 13 of___ Is a Mother, we discuss the difference between fake (external) self-care and real (internal) self-care. We take some time to give ourselves kudos for the difficult things we have been tackling to better our overall wellness, and we discuss what we wish we were doing more to support our true self-care. Some of the talking points we go over in this episode include:Self-compassion and taking time to celebrate wins big and small is an important form of self-care. Setting boundaries around technology, work, and social media can reduce the overwhelm of constant stimulation, distractions, and comparison.Being productive is much more important than being busy, no matter what Corporate America has drilled into us. Prioritizing quality time with your partner is necessary to nurture your relationship. Going back to the basics and prioritizing rest and sleep is paramount to overall wellness. Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag us! Follow, rate, and review the podcast, and tell us your key takeaways! If there are topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode, please let us know. Thanks for being part of our inner circle and an important part of this community. Go call your best friend!CONNECT WITH US:@_IsAMotherPodcast on InstagramWork with Jamie! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Un)Well DocumentaryReal Self-Care by Pooja Lakshmin, MDGood Inside: Self-Care Is An Inside Job SB CBD Sleep GummiesThe 4-Hour Workweek by Timothy FerrissEp 3: Returning to Work After Giving Birth is a MotherEp 10: Financial Planning is a Mother with Karen Holloway, Financial AdvisorNPR story: Real self-care takes real systemic change

Family culture is a mother! And when we say culture we are not talking about race, gender, or ethnicity but rather an agreed-upon set of expectations of the social communities we exist in with our family units at the foundation. As we grow families of our own, it becomes a balancing act of integrating each parent’s respective cultural norms to create your core family’s unique culture. In episode 12 of ___ Is a Mother, Jamie uses the foundations of the Intercultural Conflict Style (ICS) assessment with PV and Brett (married and co-parenting a 4.5-year-old) to illustrate how it can help us understand our authentic approach to communication and addressing conflict—key elements of any family’s culture. Some of the talking points we go over in this episode include:A set of questions to consider to ground into our respective cultural beliefs. How someone might perceive themselves vs. how others may perceive them depending on their communication styles.The way we naturally react to conflict is rooted in our cultural norms and upbringing. Our individual culture and conflict style balances with the style of our partners’ to guide how we parent our children and define our core family’s culture. How Jamie uses the ICS assessment to help organizations establish an inclusive culture by understanding everyone’s unique and individual communication and conflict resolution styles.Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please take a screenshot of the episode to post and link in your stories and tag us! Follow, rate, and review the podcast, and tell us your key takeaways. If there are topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode, please let us know. Thanks for being part of our inner circle and an important part of this community. Go call your best friend!CONNECT WITH US:@_IsAMotherpodcast on InstagramWork with Jamie! LINKS MENTIONED IN / RELEVANT TO THIS EPISODE:Intercultural Conflict Style AssessmentDr. Becky’s (parenting coach & clinical psychologist) TED talk on connection, modeling, and repair in parentingTrauma psychologist Dr. Mariel Buqué’s book Break The Cycle: A Guide to Healing Intergenerational TraumaEpisode 10 Financial Planning is a Mother | www.karenholloway.nm.com

Managing adult friendships is a Mother! The older we get, our packed schedules, geographical moves, and changing priorities can make it challenging to make and maintain friendships. In our current phase of life, we are mindful that some friendships come and go, while others continue to thrive year after year. And still, there can be room to develop new friendships, but it ain’t easy to do. . .This episode is sponsored by Northwestern Mutual. They believe in doing the right thing, and to them, the right thing is making sure their clients won’t have to worry about their finances. Northwestern Mutual recommends financial strategies based on each client’s life and priorities, designed to help them reach their unique goals. For more information, please visit www.karenholloway.nm.com  In episode 11 of ___ Is a Mother, we discuss our experiences making and maintaining friendships as we move through different phases of our lives, and recognizing when someone is your friend for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. Some of the talking points we go over in this episode include:Low-maintenance, or flexible, friendships become more and more valuable the more chaotic our lives become. Managing expectations around how you show up as a friend vs. how others show up for you. Re-evaluating friendships over time, and setting boundaries that prioritize mutually beneficial relationships. Motherhood and other major life shifts will likely change friendship dynamics—either positively or negatively. Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag us! Follow, rate, and review the podcast, and tell us your key takeaways. If there are topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode, please let us know. Thanks for being part of our inner circle and an important part of this community. Go call your best friend!CONNECT WITH US:@_IsAMotherpodcast on InstagramWork with Jamie! 

Financial Planning is a Mother. If you’re like us, you were taught only the basics of financial management. But there are so many tools and resources available to us that can truly set us up to achieve financial health and protect our future. In episode 10 of ___ Is a Mother, we are joined by Karen Holloway to discuss the financial elements every family should have in place and lay out the options that are available to you so you can start making strategic financial decisions that align with your goals. Be sure to grab a notebook because Karen drops some incredible knowledge in this episode. This episode is sponsored by Northwestern Mutual. They believe in doing the right thing, and to them, the right thing is making sure their clients won’t have to worry about their finances. Northwestern Mutual recommends financial strategies based on each client’s life and priorities, designed to help them reach their unique goals. For more information, please visit www.karenholloway.nm.com  Some of the talking points we go over in this episode include:Breaking down the four buckets of financial planning. The difference between whole and term life insurance and how to decide which may be right for you. Education savings funds available to you and the pros and cons of each option. How to approach asking family and friends to invest in your child’s future instead of buying physical presents for life events.A unique way for entrepreneurs to kickstart their child’s financial future with a Roth IRA.How Traditional and Roth IRAs (Individual Retirement Accounts) stack up against other investment funds. Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag us! Follow, rate, and review the podcast, and tell us your key takeaways! If there are topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode, please let us know. Thanks for being part of our inner circle and an important part of this community. Go call your best friend!CONNECT WITH KAREN HOLLOWAY:WebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedInCONNECT WITH US:@_IsAMotherpodcast on InstagramWork with Jamie! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Atomic Habits

Labeling kids is a mother! For both children and adults, there can be a stigma around behavioral disorders, mental health issues, learning disabilities, etc., and individuals go undiagnosed and untreated for too long. On the flip side, sometimes children are incorrectly categorized or labeled in an innocent attempt to help, which leads to other concerns. In episode 09 of ___ Is a Mother, we are joined by psychologist Dr. Nekeshia Hammond to discuss the importance of intervening early when your parenting instinct is telling you something isn’t right, and how you can advocate for your children, as well as your family unit. Some of the talking points we go over in this episode include:Signs that a toddler might be struggling and require additional support. The pros and cons of “labeling” or diagnosing our children with behavioral disorders and/or learning disabilities.Tips for communicating parenting and discipline boundaries, and connection and support needs with family and friends.Fielding unsolicited (yet well-intended) parenting advice. Creating cultural norms within your family unit by blending aspects from each parent’s upbringing, while adding new parenting styles into the mix. Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag us! Follow, rate, and review the podcast, and tell us your key takeaways! If there are topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode, please let us know. Thanks for being part of our inner circle and an important part of this community. Go call your best friend!CONNECT WITH DR. HAMMOND:WebsiteADHD Explained: What Every Parent Needs to KnowInstagram LinkedInOTHER RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:Fire Child Water ChildCONNECT WITH US:@_IsAMotherpodcast on InstagramWork with Jamie! 

Since the pandemic, we, like many people, have found ourselves saying that each year is the worst to date. And DANG! We can confidently say that 2023 was the mother of all mothers. This past year has by far been the most challenging year for both of our families in many ways. In episode 08 of ___ Is a Mother, we take time to reflect on the past year: the good, the bad, and the ugly, while finding the silver linings during even the toughest periods. Here are some teasers:The most ridiculous and adventurous things we experienced in 2023. Choices we wish we would have made differently. Things we hope to leave behind as we enter the new year. Ways we have grown and come into a deeper sense of self-awareness as women, moms, and people.Cherished moments from the year that prove to us that even when times are hard, there is so much love, joy, and beauty too.Thank you so much for being part of our journey and allowing us to be a part of yours. We’re excited to enter the new year with ya!Thank you for listening! What are your 2023 reflections? If you enjoyed this episode, please share it in your stories and tag us! And/or send it directly to a friend who can relate. Please follow, rate and review the podcast and tell us your key takeaways. If there are topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode, let us know! Thanks for being part of our inner circle, we’re thrilled to have you part of this community. Go call your best friend!CONNECT WITH US:@_IsAMotherpodcast on InstagramWork with Jamie! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Rest is Resistence by Tricia Hersey 

Traveling with a toddler is a mother, especially when you’re traveling to stay in someone else's home who may have different cultural norms and parenting styles as you and you’re struggling to find the balance. In episode 7 of ___ Is a Mother, we recap the trip that led to tension in our friendship based on our parenting and cultural differences and how the conversations we had to address that tension ultimately led to the creation of this podcast. Some of the talking points we go over in this episode include:PV’s traumatic experience flying with her toddler who was, unknowingly to them at the time, experiencing a night terror. Finding the balance between setting boundaries for your toddler and giving them the space to make and learn from their mistakes.The prep and conversations that need to happen before, during, and after traveling to and staying in someone else's home with a toddler.Being aware of and sensitive to cultural norms of raising and parenting children while traveling.Lessons we’ve learned from traveling with our toddlers.Remember to give yourself and your toddler some grace. While your toddler is still learning how to navigate life, you’re learning how to navigate parenting in different environments. Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag us!  And don’t forget to follow, rate and review the podcast and tell us your key takeaways! If there are topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode, please let us know. Thanks for being part of our inner circle, we’re thrilled to have you part of this community. Go call your best friend!CONNECT WITH US:@_IsAMotherpodcast on InstagramWork with Jamie! 

Body image is a mother! No matter what your shape or size or features, society presents unrealistic and unattainable goals for how we “should” look. These unhealthy images are compounded by external opinions, comments, and comparisons in life, at work, and on social media. In reality, feeling our best, healthiest selves has less to do with how our bodies look and more with the people we surround ourselves with and the life experiences we have. In episode 06 of ___ Is a Mother, we discuss how our relationship with our bodies has evolved throughout the course of our lives and how we have learned to give ourselves grace and appreciate and love our whole selves.  Some of the talking points we go over in this episode include:Update on Jamie’s double mastectomy and trying for baby #2.Separating mental and physical perceptions of our bodies.The relationship between weight and health (hint: it’s not linear).Cultural differences of a healthy body image.How health and fitness goals change as we age (strength >>> cardio over 40).Thoughts on aging gracefully and naturally. Uninvited commentary on what your body should look like.Times we feel our best selves (spoiler alert: it has nothing to do with how our bodies look).The impact social media has on us as grown adults let alone impressional young people. Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag us!  And don’t forget to follow, rate and review the podcast and tell us your key takeaways. If there are topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode, please let us know. Thanks for being part of our inner circle, we’re thrilled to have you part of this community. Go call your best friend!CONNECT WITH US:@_IsAMotherpodcast on InstagramWork with Jamie! 

Growing up, we have ideas of what we want our future family structure to look like, and more often than not, these ideas change because of factors that are out of our control. We have certainly both found this to be true when considering expanding our family unit and all of the little decisions that come into play. This week, episode 5 of ___ Is a Mother Podcast is why baby #2 is a mother!In this episode of ___ Is a Mother Podcast, we’re sharing how we imagined our family structure to look as young women and how it has evolved (and is still evolving) over time. Some of the talking points we go over in this episode include:Finding the silver linings in the unplanned and unpredicted.Reframing the negative ideas we have around vulnerability to see it as the strength that it is. What Jamie’s breast cancer diagnosis means for her family planning journey.PV & husband’s decision to move forward with fertility treatments for baby number 2, or come to terms with their family of three.We would love to hear your story. We know y’all have some interesting and complex stories! Message us and share your experience and any resources that helped you make a decision on your family planning journey. Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag us!  And don’t forget to follow, rate and review the podcast and tell us your key takeaways! If there are topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode, please let us know. Thanks for being part of our inner circle, we’re thrilled to have you part of this community. Go call your best friend!CONNECT WITH US:@_IsAMotherpodcast on InstagramWork with Jamie! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:As a Woman Podcast 

Healthcare for pregnant and postpartum mothers is so baby-centered that the mother often gets forgotten. One of the most important, yet least talked about, healthcare needs for mothers specifically is strengthening the pelvic floor. And frankly, every human has a pelvic floor, so why are we not talking about it more often!? Dr. Chris is generously offering the promo code "firstfree" to our listeners to receive complimentary access to her Roadmap to returning to exercise postpartum: CLEARED to CONFIDENT online course for 30 days. In episode 4 of ___ is a Mother, we’re joined by Dr. Christine Pieton (known as “Dr. Chris”) to discuss the lack of education and resources mothers (and anyone, for that matter) receive around pelvic floor health and why it is so important to seek out a pelvic floor therapist. Some of the talking points we go over in this episode include:The structure of your pelvic floor and how a team of muscles work together to support some of the body’s most important functions. Did someone say sex?The truth behind kegels and why they aren’t the answer to all of our problems, at least not alone.Walking you through what an internal pelvic floor exam entails.  Why low back, hip, and pelvic pain are so prevalent beyond pregnancy and into motherhood. What happens to your pelvic floor during pregnancy, birth and postpartum. Navigating the hormonal challenges women face as we age, and its interface with pelvic floor health. It is never too late to focus on your pelvic floor health because it is never too late to get stronger. Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag us! And don’t forget to follow, rate and review the podcast and tell us your key takeaways! If there are topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode, please let us know. Thanks for being part of our inner circle, we’re thrilled to have you part of this community. Go call your best friend!CONNECT WITH DR. CHRISTINE PIETON:Pieton PTInstagramYouTubeCONNECT WITH US:@_IsAMotherpodcast on InstagramWork with Jamie! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Pelvic Guru- a directory by zip code for finding a pelvic floor PT

Discrimination in the workplace after giving birth is a mother, especially when your job isn’t guaranteed and to no one’s surprise, mothers, especially new mothers, are undervalued and often taken advantage of in the workplace. In episode 3 of ___ Is a Mother, we’re sharing our experiences returning to work after giving birth and the challenges we had to face as the strong-willed, career-driven women we naturally are. Our hope is that the more we open this conversation and encourage others to share their stories, we can work towards better treatment not just for mothers, but for women, People of Color, and other minority groups. Some of the talking points we go over in this episode include:Our (unfavorable) experiences returning to work after the birth of our children. The unfair undervalue placed on women, moms, and minorities in the workplace.The importance of opening up, sharing your story, and speaking up when you or someone you know is not being treated equitably in the workplace.  Embracing the discomfort that comes with change when you take control of your path forward. Regardless of your experience returning to work, be it positive or negative, you must remember that you are so much more than your job, and your life is so much more meaningful than what you do to pay your bills.  Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag us!  And don’t forget to follow, rate and review the podcast and tell us your key takeaways! If there are topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode, please let us know. Thanks for being part of our inner circle, we’re thrilled to have you part of this community. Go call your best friend!CONNECT WITH US:@_IsAMotherpodcast on InstagramWork with Jamie! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:The Startup Parent Podcast Episode 23: Overthrowing the Patriarchy with Sarah Lacy of Chairman MomOur Uterus Is a Feature, Not a Bug by Sarah LacyYour Black Employees Are Exhausted [Article]

There is no question that becoming a first-time parent or adding a child to your family can be a difficult adjustment. The 4th trimester is a mother and the only way you’re going to get through it is with support.In episode 2 of ___ Is a Mother, we’re sharing the unique adjustments that come with becoming a new parent and reminding you to be patient with yourself. When a child is born, so is a mother. Also do your best to make time for yourself and your partner as a couple, even when it feels out of reach. Give yourself grace and remember it is OK to both ask for and receive help. Some of the talking points we go over in this episode include:Finding the balance between letting people in and accepting their support while maintaining boundaries as new parents. Building a support group of trusted family and friends to help you navigate the adjustments to parenthood. Some books, blogs, journals, and resources we found helpful during our pregnancies and into our 4th trimester. Giving yourself grace and debunking society’s expectations of how you should ‘bounce back’ after pregnancy. Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag us!  And don’t forget to follow, rate and review the podcast and tell us your key takeaways! If there are topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode, please let us know. Thanks for being part of our inner circle, we’re thrilled to have you part of this community. Go call your best friend!CONNECT WITH US:@_IsAMotherpodcast on InstagramWork with Jamie! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Cribsheet: A Data-Driven Guide to Better, More Relaxed Parenting, from Birth to Preschool What to Expect When You’re Expecting by Heidi MurkoffGrateful For You: A gratitude journal for parents to preserve memories and special moments / korieherold.com, also @korieherold on IG Motherkind Podcast - Postpartum Doctor: why a hustle mindset will break you in motherhood and what to do instead

Age is a mother, especially when it comes to the challenges of finding your life partner, building a career, starting a family, and ensuring all of those elements align. It’s easy to focus on the drawbacks and worries of creating a family later in life, but there is also so much beauty that comes with aging and the realization that you are in control of your own path.In episode 1 of ___ Is a Mother, we discuss the paths that led us to start our families a bit later than expected, and how regardless of what we may have thought our timing should look like, everything worked out just as it was meant to. Some of the talking points we go over in this episode include:Why “dating ourselves” was the best thing to set us up for future relationships, especially meeting our life partners.Our different experiences planning for pregnancy, getting pregnant, and giving birth. The importance of advocating for women, especially black women, to get the treatment and care they need during pregnancy and the birthing process.   Finding your ‘people’ and building a support network that you can lean on. Our (differing) hot takes on repurposing your placenta after birth. Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag us!  And don’t forget to follow, rate and review the podcast and tell us your key takeaways! If there are topics you would like us to discuss in a future episode, please let us know. Thanks for being part of our inner circle, we’re thrilled to have you as part of this community. Go call your best friend!CONNECT WITH US:@_IsAMotherpodcast on InstagramWork with Jamie!  

Two toddler boy Moms that have been best friends since college are here to share their unique motherhood journeys through a comparative lens. We aren’t supposed to compare, right? Well, that is not realistic. The first few years of motherhood shook their lives and friendship like no other experience has, and by comparing and contrasting their journeys, they have discovered the strongest threads of sisterhood yet. They don’t have all the answers and they sure have made some missteps. Follow along as they do their best to nurture their friendship while making one thousand tiny mama decisions in an unfair world.