It Takes a Village Podcast

This special live episode of It Takes A Village Podcast was recorded at the Gunnison Arts Center, a place that holds deep history for two of our hosts, Megan and Brieanna, who once worked within its walls and helped shape its creative community. Returning to the GAC not just as organizers, but as storytellers, felt like coming home with a new purpose.The room was full in the best way: parents, kids, friends, and neighbors gathered together, with little voices and shifting chairs welcomed rather than silenced. Instead of feeling disruptive, the presence of children felt like proof of the very thing this podcast stands for: that community doesn’t require perfection or quiet, just honesty and belonging.Each audience member who stepped up to the microphone asked a thoughtful, brave question, turning the live recording into a shared conversation rather than a performance. With Lana Athey of Gunnison Tough as our special guest, the dialogue moved between strength and vulnerability, personal stories and collective resilience, weaving a powerful reminder of what it means to show up for one another.And then, as the evening continued, the community stayed together for the screening of Butterfly in a Blizzard. Watching the film in the same space, surrounded by the same people who had just shared stories and questions, made the experience even more profound. It was a night of connection, courage, and community, a living example of what it truly means to say: it takes a village.Resources MentionedGunnison Tough "How to Get Help" - https://gunnisontough.com/how-to-get-assistance/Gunnison Tough Programs - https://gunnisontough.com/programs/Living Journeys Support Groups - https://livingjourneys.org/assistance/GVH Cancer Screening Access Fund - https://www.gunnisonvalleyhealth.org/our-services/cancer-care/cancer-screening-access-fund/Women's Wellness Connection for women over 50 - https://www.gunnisoncounty.org/260/Womens-Wellness-Connection

Join It Takes A Village Podcast for a special community-centered day at the Gunnison Arts Center on January 16th. The afternoon begins with a live podcast recording at 4 pm, featuring honest conversation, shared stories, and a little audience interaction, because this Village believes in learning and growing together. We’re thrilled to welcome special guest Lana Athey from Gunnison Tough, bringing her perspective, experience, and voice into the conversation. This live recording is pay-what-you-can (or free) with first-come, first-served seating.In the evening at 7 pm, stay for a screening of Butterfly in a Blizzard, a powerful and deeply personal film that explores resilience, connection, and lived experience. The podcast is proud to co-sponsor this screening in support of storytelling that sparks empathy and dialogue. Film tickets are $10.Attend one event or join us for the full day. However you choose to participate, you’re invited to show up, connect, and be part of the Village.Movie Tickets: https://www.gunnisonartscenter.org/film-screening-events

For our final episode of It Takes a Village season one, we’re taking a deep breath, looking back on everything we’ve shared, and laughing our way through what it really takes to keep the magic alive, especially during the holidays. From the sugar rush of Halloween to the cozy chaos of Christmas, we unpack the highs, the heaviness, and the heart of motherhood during a time when moms seem to hold the whole season together.We talk about the traditions that bring our families joy, and what this past year of conversation and connection has meant to us. Plus, we hear from some of our incredible listeners; your stories, your moments, and your reminders that none of us are doing this alone.Join us as we wrap up season one with gratitude, laughter, and maybe a little exhaustion left over from Halloween. Here’s to the village we’ve built, the magic we’ve made, and everything still to come. We'll see you in season 2!Our Socials and EmailInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ita_village_pod/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/It-Takes-A-Village-Podcast-61570095071374/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ItTakesaVillagePodGmail: [email protected] Out Our Form! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScvEkUWNA9slnR7ez8n5EkocKVw8FqYcCHUVCIyqoa3fNG3XQ/viewform?usp=headerPodcast Website: https://it-takes-a-village-podcast.captivate.fm/Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/it-takes-a-village-podcast/id1796063889Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5SCVzApym2iwb4qhVTAFxc?si=f13f31499d5a4538Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b49899c7-b7b3-4bcf-959a-40dcb5040c7b/it-takes-a-village-podcastOur GuestsLouise Perry:The Grove in Gunnison, CO -&nbsp;https://www.thegrovemotherwellness.com/Mother Sage Motherhood Therapy -&nbsp;https://www.mothersagetherapyservices.com/Kelsey Weaver:Mountain Mamas Cafe -&nbsp;https://www.gunnisonvalleyhealth.org/our-services/obstetrics/family-birth-center/support-for-new-parentsKatie Thomas:Project Hope - https://www.hope4gv.org/Jessica Ekhardt: Google Scholar Search: Jessica EckhardtIntegrating Sociological Perspectives into Obesogenic Research<a...

In this episode of It Takes a Village, we sit down with Jessica Eckhardt, a researcher whose work explores the intersections of maternal health, rural healthcare systems, and shifting cultural trends around parenting and birth.Jessica shares how she first became interested in women’s health and paints a candid picture of the changing landscape of maternal and infant care in rural communities. We dive into hospital closures, gaps in prenatal care, and the lingering impacts of historical misconceptions, like “female hysteria”, on modern medicine. Jessica also sheds light on why midwifery is often seen as a gold standard of care, and the promising grassroots and policy efforts working to bridge maternal health disparities.The conversation then takes a thoughtful turn toward declining birth rates and the complex web of factors influencing family planning today, from climate change anxiety to economic pressures and shifting gender norms. Jessica unpacks global parenting trends, policy strategies, and cultural changes that shape how families are built and supported in today’s world.This episode is an insightful look at where we are, how we got here, and what it will take to create a future where families and rural communities can truly thrive.Resources Mentioned:Contact Your Local Colorado OfficialsSora Midwifery Community - Home Birth &amp; Midwife Services within 80 Miles of Salida, ColoradoThe Black Birth CollectiveGrand Junction Birth CollectiveGunnison MentorsBrothers Helping Brothers&nbsp;Gunny Bike BusMeal TrainGunnison Valley Humanity Posse&nbsp;Robert Putnam, Author Read More From Jessica:Google Scholar Search: Jessica EckhardtIntegrating Sociological Perspectives into Obesogenic ResearchRace, Environmental Inequality, and Physical Health

Episode 9 – Building a Village with Project HopeIn this episode of It Takes a Village, we sit down with Katie Thomas, Advocacy Director of Project Hope of Gunnison Valley. Together, we talk honestly about the realities of abuse and stalking, and the critical resources available right here in our valley for those affected. Katie shares the signs of abuse to look out for, how friends and loved ones can offer meaningful support, and what it really looks like to walk through the doors of Project Hope.This conversation is all about breaking silence, building safety, and reminding our community that no one has to navigate abuse alone.Resources Mentioned:Project Hope: https://www.hope4gv.org/Gunnison Valley Food Pantry:Men's Group - Brothers Helping Brothers: https://gunnisoncountryfoodpantry.org/Project Hope is at the Hikers' Center in Lake City once a month!Gunnison Rec Center: https://www.gunnisonco.gov/departments/parks___recreation/index.php

In this episode, we sit down with local lactation consultant Kelsey Weaver to talk about the real journey of keeping a baby fed, whether that's through breastfeeding, pumping, formula, or some combo of all three. Kelsey shares her expertise and lived experience, reminding us that there's no one-size-fits-all when it comes to feeding your baby. We explore the pressure new parents feel, the myths that still linger, and why supporting moms in finding what works for them is truly what’s best for baby. This one is all about ditching the guilt and embracing what feels right for you and your family.Resources MentionedMountain Mamas Cafe: https://www.gunnisonvalleyhealth.org/our-services/obstetrics/family-birth-center/support-for-new-parentsCharlotte Briel Wombs of the World: https://www.wombsoftheworld.com/Modela Pumps: https://www.medela.com/en-us/breastfeeding-pumpingMeal Train: https://www.mealtrain.com/

In our very first interview episode, we sit down with Louise Perry, motherhood therapist and owner of The Grove in Gunnison, Colorado, for a powerful and validating conversation. Together, we explore what it really means to name what mothers are going through so we can properly meet their needs. Louise shares insight into how other cultures support parents, and what we can learn from them as we rebuild our own village. We also dive into how to work with your partner through the constantly shifting expectations of modern parenthood. This episode is honest, hopeful, and a must-listen for anyone navigating the messy, beautiful world of parenting.Resources Mentioned:The Grove in Gunnison, CO - https://www.thegrovemotherwellness.com/Mother Sage Motherhood Therapy - https://www.mothersagetherapyservices.com/How Not to Hate Your Husband After Kids by Jancee Dunn - https://www.amazon.com/Hate-Your-Husband-After-Kids/dp/0316267104Dr. Aurelie Athan - https://www.matrescence.com/Chelsea Robinson - https://www.mamasmodernvillage.com/Caregiver Conversations - https://www.gunnisoncountylibraries.org/events/The Good Mother Myth: Unlearning Our Bad Ideas About How to Be a Good Mom by Nancy Reddy - https://www.amazon.com/Good-Mother-Myth-Unlearning-Ideas/dp/1250336643/Mindfulness for Kids Classes at The Grove - https://www.thegrovemotherwellness.com/events

Let’s get real about feeding our babies. In this raw and honest episode, Megan, Liberty, and Brieanna open up about the pressures moms face around breastfeeding, formula feeding, pumping, and everything in between. We talk about the emotional and physical toll of feeding a newborn, how to shut out the noise of “doing it right,” and ways partners can actually be helpful (hint: it’s more than washing bottles). If you’re nursing, mixing formula, exclusively pumping, or somewhere in the messy middle, this conversation is for you.Links for Resources mentioned in the episode:Earth Mama - https://earthmamaorganics.com/collections/breastfeeding-support/products/organic-nipple-butterLanolin - https://lansinoh.com/collections/nipple-creams-careLegendairy Milk on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/legendairymilk

In this raw and honest episode, Liberty, Megan, and Brieanna open up about the often-overlooked reality of life after birth. From the jarring moment you bring the baby home to the isolation, monotony, and emotional rollercoaster that follows, your hosts share their personal experiences with postpartum depression, the impact (or absence) of paternal leave, and what they wish they had known about matrescence. Most importantly, they explore the powerful ways we can show up for new moms, and truly be the village it takes.Resources Mentioned:Meal Train App - Google Form for Special Issues Episode:

In this deeply personal episode, we dive into the full spectrum of labor stories, because no two births look the same. From slow-building inductions and marathon pre-labor to the classic Hollywood-style water breaking and everything in between, we talk about what it really felt like to bring our babies into the world. We share stories of C-sections, epidurals, pitocin, and the curveballs that changed our carefully laid birth plans. It gets emotional, it gets intense, and at times, it's even a little funny. Most of all, it's real. This episode is about the moment we became parents and the wild, powerful journey it took to get there.Resources: Contraction Tracking Apps: Contraction Timer &amp; Counter, Storky, Freya

From the moment that second line appears to the final stretch of the third trimester, pregnancy is a wild, emotional, and sometimes downright chaotic ride. In this episode, we share our personal journeys—the joys, the heartbreaks, and everything in between. We talk about miscarriage, the rollercoaster of wanting (or not wanting) to be pregnant, unexpected complications, hospital stays, hormone-fueled meltdowns, bizarre cravings, and the long, slow wait for baby’s arrival. Whether you’ve been there, are there now, or just love a good pregnancy story, this episode is for you.Resources Mentioned:UCLA Meditations - https://www.uclahealth.org/uclamindful/guided-meditations

From the moment that second line appears to the final stretch of the third trimester, pregnancy is a wild, emotional, and sometimes downright chaotic ride. In this episode, we share our personal "pee on a stick" stories, and what went down when we found out we were, in fact, pregnant. Whether you’ve been there, are there now, or just love a good pregnancy story, this episode is for you.Resources Mentioned in the Episode:UCLA Mindful Guided Meditations:https://www.uclahealth.org/uclamindful/guided-meditationsLiberty's Incredibly Accurate Sedona Psychic - Erin:https://mysticalbazaar.com/sedona-psychic-readings/

Welcome to It Takes a Village! In this first episode, we introduce your hosts and share the story behind this podcast. We’ll dive into our mission—creating a space where women in the Gunnison Valley can connect, share their experiences, and support one another through the ups and downs of motherhood, business ownership, and community life. Plus, we’ll break down our episode structure, what you can expect moving forward, and how you can be part of the conversation. Let’s build this village together!**Colorado moms! Megan mentioned this incredible resource so you can find kid-friendly activities anywhere you go. Give @slidesandsunshine a follow on Instagram.