BDA Baby (Before, During and After Baby)

What if feeding your baby didn’t come with pressure, shame, or judgment? In this episode, I’m joined by Laura Modi, founder and CEO of Bobbie, the formula company that’s rewriting the rules on how we nourish our babies and ourselves.We talk about:- The cultural expectations around feeding and the rise of combo feeding- The emotional toll of feeding expectations on new moms- Why formula shouldn’t be treated like a dirty word- What makes Bobbie different from ingredient standards to that viral poop Slack channel (yes, really)- Why no one should feel the need to smuggle formula from EuropeWhether you're breastfeeding, formula feeding, combo feeding, or just curious — this one’s for every parent who's ever asked: Am I doing it right?Explore their products here: https://go.shopmy.us/p-27927499Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

In this episode, we talked to Aliza Carr and Candice Echeverria about their experiences with Haakaa and breastfeeding. Aliza is a midwife and shares some of the reasons she recomends Haakaa products to new moms. Candice is a lactation consultant and has such great insight on the breastfeeding process. Both women remind us that feeding our babies is a very personal journey. What works for one mom might not work as well for you and your baby. Having the rights tools can make the whole process that much smoother and enjoyable for you and your little one! Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Physical therapy for babies and toddlers was a foreign concept to me until I became a mother myself and learned about the benefits that come with having your baby seen early when needed. Today’s episode is all about baby and toddler physical therapy, milestones, and how we can feel empowered about when to seek the help and wisdom from someone like Dr. Mell of Tots On Target. We chat about rolling, crawling, oral ties, torticollis, and how to learn about ways to help your baby stretch at home and some baby massage techniques. If you’ve ever wondered about your baby’s milestones or just wanted to know more about it when your little one is “supposed” to start doing things, this episode is for you. Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

We met with Dr. Krupa Playforth a few years ago to discuss the challenging topic of talking to children about tragedy and gun violence. Dr. Playforth is a board-certified pediatrician and mother who draws insight from her own experiences to provide advice to families. We explored the importance of giving our kids context, managing our own anxiety, and giving our kids the tools to feel safe and informed. It’s never easy to talk to our children about tough topics, but Dr. Playforth’s advice hopefully gives a little bit of guidance. Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Every parent knows the cold sweat that hits when your child starts melting down… especially in public. The stares, the pressure, the mental spiral… it’s a lot. In this episode, I’m joined by Alyssa Blask Campbell, the brilliant mind behind Tiny Humans, Big Emotions and the brand-new follow-up Big Kids, Bigger Feelings. We dive into why kids act out, how our own reactions shape theirs, and what emotional regulation really looks like in the wild- at Target, at bedtime, or on the soccer field. Alyssa shares tools that are truly doable (even when you're exhausted) and reminds us that our job isn’t to end the tantrum, it’s to sit with them through it. We also talk about parenting with a partner who handles emotions differently, supporting multiple kids with big feelings, and what emotional growth looks like between ages 5–12. Whether you're deep in the toddler phase or navigating grade school dynamics, this one’s filled with so much helpful advice and a good reminder that you're not doing it wrong, you're just doing it real. Order her book, Tiny Humans, Big Emotions here: https://amzn.to/42iOuGa Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Sharon Mazel had all kinds of advice for starting solids in this episode. We address common concerns like choking and gagging and how to navigate picky eating. Sharon emphasizes a relaxed approach and repeated exposure to new foods. When parents relax and focus on the big picture over the little details, our kids’ nutrition becomes a lot less stressful. Sharon hopes that her practical advice can empower parents on their own journey to starting solids with their babies.Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

In this inspiring episode, Mallory Ervin shared her journey to baby number three and her struggles and triumphs along the way. Mallory is open about her experiences with pregnancy loss, and her decision to share her experience with pregnancy loss in a public way. She tells us that faith and community support were pivotal in helping her through her experience trying to conceive. By sharing her story, Mallory hopes other moms who have experienced pregnancy loss will feel less alone in their one struggles.Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

If you’re a parent, you’ve been there- the baby monitor cuts out in the middle of the night, and you wake up in a panic. So you can imagine the joy I felt when I found the Harbor monitor, which promised to never cut out. And after using it with all three of my kids, I can honestly say it delivered. In this episode, I talk with Kevin Lavelle, the CEO and Co-Founder of Harbor, about how and why he created this monitor from the ground up, as a dad himself. We chat about the anxiety so many parents feel when it comes to baby monitoring, how EMF exposure became part of the conversation, and why having a physical monitor (not just an app) totally changed my experience. We also talk about the very real issue of sleep deprivation, for parents and babies alike, and how Harbor was designed to help improve that. Because when you’re sleeping better, everything from your mental health to your relationship to your patience as a parent gets better, too. Whether you’re a first-time parent or juggling multiple kids like me, I think you’ll really relate to this one. Order a Harbor monitor here: https://go.shopmy.us/p-25057387 Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

In this episode, Liz Tenety shared her journey to creating a supportive community for mothers though Motherly. We talk through the challenges and triumphs of motherhood why it’s so important for moms to have a community that knows and celebrates their experiences. Liz also gives us some insight into her own experience with motherhood, including becoming a mom of five. Whether online or in person, mothers need community and Liz hopes Motherly can be one of the places where moms come together. Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Jessica Diamond is a registered dietitian and breast feeding and weaning expert, and in this episode, we covered the emotional and physical journey of weaning from breast feeding. Jessica shares insights on gentle weaning methods and how to communicate with our children and partners. We also cover how to cope with some of the hormonal changes that come with weaning, and when to transition to other types of milk. Weaning can be a sensitive process, and Jessica encourages moms to remember that this process should follow their schedule, not someone else's. Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Ever wonder how someone wanting to grow their family via a surrogate gets paired up with the perfect surrogate for them? Cue a surrogacy matchmaker like Marly Steinman! So many families in today’s world are built in a variety of different ways. In this episode we talk about surrogacy, whether that path is right for you, and if you choose to go down that route, how you go about finding the perfect surrogate to carry your baby. I sat down with Marly Steinman, a surrogacy and donor consultant who helps guide parents through the world of third-party reproduction. Marley opens up about her own journey through infertility and loss, how she found hope in surrogacy, and why she’s now made it her life’s work to support other families doing the same. We talk about what it looks like to work with a surrogate, what the “job” of being a surrogate is really like, how to prepare emotionally and logistically, and what makes these journeys so incredibly powerful. Whether you’re navigating fertility challenges or just want to better understand this path- this episode is a must-listen. And be sure to share this with someone who might need to hear it. Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Bri Hepworth of Mini Voyager joined us to share her journey to creating her travel kit brand. Bri was inspired by her own experience traveling as a parent. As her family traveled more, Bri started making travel kits for her kids to help ease the stress of traveling and keep them entertained on long trips. Now, Mini Voyager makes those kits available to everyone! From toddlers to older children, Mini Voyager kits help get keep kids occupied and engaged throughout the travel process.Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

In this episode, Rebecca Minkoff shared her journey as an entrepreneur and mother. We learn about her journey to starting her business while balancing motherhood along the way. Rebecca emphasizes the importance of overcoming fear while learning from our failures. We also discuss how to set boundaries while working our way through work and family life. Being a working mom can be hard, but Rebecca tells us that with the right support, anything is possible. Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

When should you start reading to your baby? According to literacy advocate and author Maya Payne Smart, the answer is now. In this episode, we dive into the science and storytelling behind early reading and why those bedtime books (and even the ones they chew on!) matter more than you think.Maya explains how the simple act of reading aloud from day one helps build your child’s brain, supports language development, and lays the foundation for a lifelong love of books. We talk about why it’s never too early, or too late, to foster a love of reading, how to navigate tricky content in kids' books, and the impact of screen time on literacy and connection. She also shares actionable tips for making reading feel fun, joyful, and part of your everyday rhythm, even if you’re short on time or your child wants the same book 100 times.Whether you’re a parent of a newborn or a soon-to-be reader, this conversation is packed with practical advice, reassurance, and inspiration for raising curious, confident, and book-loving kids.Grab her book Reading for Our Lives: https://amzn.to/476Z2veGrab Katherine’s books: https://www.katherineschwarzenegger.com/booksPlease join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

In this episode, Dini Klein of Prep and Rally joined us to share so many great meal prep tips from her cookbook and beyond. Dini has so many great recipes for busy families that make meal prep easy. She also has great advice on how to keep prepped food fresh and keep meals exciting throughout the week. Juggling work, school, and extracurriculars can be a challenge, and Dini shares that meal prepping has helped her streamline mealtime and reduce the stress of deciding what to make for dinner each night. Tune in for great meal prep strategies and recipes that can help you transform mealtime. Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Jenna Johnson—professional dancer, Emmy nominee, and mom—joins me for a heartfelt conversation about motherhood, career, and what it really takes to do both. We talk about the chaotic beauty of raising a child while competing on Dancing With the Stars, how she and her husband Val navigate parenting as a team, and the real emotions that come with being a working mom—like mom guilt, comparison, and the pressure to keep it all together. Jenna also opens up about her journey through infertility and miscarriage, how therapy helped her reclaim her joy, and what she’s learned about listening to her body, honoring her emotions, and letting go of timelines. She shares what it means to compartmentalize as a parent and performer, the role her big family played in shaping her approach to motherhood, and how becoming a mom has changed everything—from the way she works to the way she loves. Whether you’re navigating the early days of parenting, balancing ambition with family, or healing from loss—Jenna’s honesty and strength in this episode is a reminder that you’re never alone. Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

John Kanell of Preppy Kitchen joined us a few years back for this episode all about fatherhood. John shares his and his husband’s journey to fatherhood, and how they chose surrogacy. John and his husband eventually welcomed twins, and we walk through all the highs and lows that come along with parenting twin toddlers. We also get into how John balances work and family, and the joy of baking with kids! He tells us that getting kids involved in the kitchen is a great way to bond while teaching them important skills at the same time. Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Radio and TV personality, author, and podcast host Tanya Rad joins for a deeply personal and refreshingly honest conversation about step-parenting—a role both of us have stepped into and are still learning to navigate. Known for co-hosting On Air with Ryan Seacrest on KIIS FM and podcast Scrubbing In, Tanya opens up about her journey as a stepmom to two boys after marrying her husband. She shares how she built her own support system, found her rhythm in a role with no clear blueprint, and learned to embrace both the beauty and the challenges that come with it. Together, we dive into the emotional complexity of blending families, the lack of resources and representation for stepparents, the power of communication, respecting parental boundaries, working through insecurities, and why it’s time to change the narrative around stepmothers. Whether you’re a stepparent yourself, co-parenting with one, or curious about what this role really looks like, this episode offers a heartfelt, honest look at what it means to show up for a child who isn’t biologically your own. Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Simon Huck and Soraya Sutherland joined us in this episode to talk all about disaster preparedness. Be prepared for the worst is so important, especially with young children. However, it can be hard to find ways to talk through preparedness with our kids without feeling like we’re scaring them. Soraya’s book A Kids Book About Safety addresses this issue and helps parents have kid friendly conversations about emergency preparedness. Simon and Soraya also stress the importance of creating a go bag, and how to include your children in the process. This episode is full of great tips, and Simon and Soraya hope they can help get more families to start the conversation about their emergency plans. Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Like parenting, step-parenting doesn’t come with a manual—but unlike parenting, your role is much less defined. You’re not a parent, nanny, or assistant, but you might share responsibilities in those areas. At the end of the day, though, you’re none of those roles.I feel very lucky that I get to experience both step-parenting and parenting. One of the best decisions I’ve made was seeking out the help and guidance of a step-parenting therapist, whom I sit down with in this episode: Ashley Graber, LMFT. Together, we talk about a role that so many of us are navigating and one that often comes with more questions than answers.Six and a half years into this journey, I’ve learned that being a step-parent can feel like parenting, assisting, supporting, and sometimes stepping back all at the same time. I’ve also learned that there just aren’t enough resources or real conversations out there for those of us in this role. That’s why I opened up the conversation to all of you and I’ve never received more questions for a single topic.Ashley and I dive into the big and most commonly asked topics: discipline, defining your role, communicating with co-parents, and the emotional gymnastics of blending families. We talk about the importance of putting the child first, but also how to honor your own experience and feelings along the way.This is a conversation I wish I could have listened to years ago, and I hope it offers support, perspective, and maybe even a little peace for anyone walking this path.Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Caitlin Slavens and Chelsea Bodie of Mama Psychologists joined us in this episode and shared great insights into balancing mental health with being a mom. Caitlin and Chelsea explain that mothers often carry a huge mental load, and it is important to emphasize self-care and open communication. We also get into managing mom guild, and how we can manage the complex emotions that come up around being a busy mom. Chelsea and Catilin encourage all moms to practice self-compassion and self-care. Even small steps can make a big difference! Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

This week’s episode is deeply personal and incredibly meaningful to me. I’m joined by Rebecca, an early childhood expert at Special Olympics, and Jennifer Pittman, a Special Olympics parent and manager of Healthy Families, for a conversation about the organization closest to my heart. We talk about how Special Olympics is changing the game in early childhood development, providing crucial support to kids with intellectual and developmental disabilities before they even receive a formal diagnosis. We also dive into their new Young Athletes app, which empowers parents to support their child’s growth through play, wherever they are. Jennifer shares her powerful story of navigating her son Shalom’s early diagnosis and how Special Olympics became a place of community, support, and strength for her whole family. This conversation is filled with practical advice, hope, and a reminder that none of us are alone in this journey. Whether you're a parent, educator, or someone who cares about inclusive communities, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Download the Young Athletes App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/young-athletes/id1629555324 Learn more at specialolympics.org Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

In this episode, we sat down with Scarlett Lewis to discuss her Choose Love Movement. Scarlett founded the movement in honor of her son Jesse who was tragically lost in the Sandy Hook shooting. The Jesse Lewis Choose Love Movement promotes fostering nurturing, healing love. They also provide free programs for violence prevention and emotional wellbeing. Scarlett hopes that through her movement, more children can learn forgiveness and compassion. It is so important that we teach our kids how to be emotionally intelligent people who can navigate their feelings and be caring to others. Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

This week, I’m joined by Laura and Kelly, the sister duo behind Tied Sunwear, the fashion-forward UPF clothing brand that’s changing the way we think about sun protection. What started as a deeply personal mission after their mom’s melanoma diagnosis turned into a full-blown business built on style, safety, and sisterhood. We talk about why sun-protective clothing matters more than most people realize (spoiler: your cotton tee isn’t cutting it), what it really took to launch a brand from scratch, and how they’re designing timeless, flattering silhouettes that work for every season of life from pregnancy to postpartum and beyond. They also share how they keep their relationship strong while running a family business, what it means to build a mission-driven company, and their dream to become the ultimate “one-stop sun shop.” If you’ve ever wondered what goes into starting a brand or just want better options for protecting your skin without sacrificing style, this one’s for you. Use my code Katherine15 for 15% off: https://go.shopmy.us/p-21318273 Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Jocelyn Delk Adams joined us for this episode alongside the release of her cookbook Everyday Grand, a cookbook that celebrates everyday moments through food. Jocelyn has such great insights in today’s episode on everything from balancing motherhood and career to cooking with children and bringing people together. She emphasizes that a supportive community helped her to realize both her professional and parenthood goals. One of those goals was writing Everyday Grand! Jocelyn hopes that her cookbook can help other families realize the joy of food just like it did for her own. Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Jessica Woo joined us in this episode to share all about how to create cute, boxed lunches that kids will actually eat and enjoy. Jessica has built a following on social media sharing the bento boxes she makes for her kids, and today she gives us some tips and tricks to make similar meals for our own children. Presentation can really impact what our kids will eat, so quick easy ways to make mealtime more fun can help get our kids eating a wide variety of new foods. You might even find a new form of self-expression! Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Catherine McCord joined us alongside the launch of her cookbook Meal Prep Magic. Catherine is a chef, entrepreneur, mom of three, and the founder of Weelicious. She creates kid friendly, nutritious recipes to help feed the whole family. Today we talk about how to meal prep for kids, and what kids of foods Catherine likes to keep on hand to make feeding her kids simpler. She also gives some great tips on everything from organizing your pantry to quick meal hacks. Feeding kids nutritious foods they’ll actually like can be a challenge, but Catherine hope Weelicious and Meal Prep Magic can help take away some of the stress around meal time. Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

This week, I’m joined by Jenny Best, founder of Solid Starts and one of the most trusted voices in baby-led feeding, for a super informative and stress-reducing conversation about starting solids. Whether you’re a first-time parent or navigating food with baby #3, Jenny shares practical advice, research-backed insights, and personal stories to help you feel more confident and calm about this big milestone. We talk about how baby-led weaning differs from the traditional puree path, how to reduce the fear of choking, why mess is a good thing, and how to fold your baby into the family meal (instead of making separate “kid food”). Jenny also shares tips for that very first food, what to actually buy (or not buy), and why letting baby lead the way is key to building a healthy relationship with food. Whether your baby is 5 months or you're prepping for solids down the line, this episode will give you the reassurance and tools to approach this stage with more ease and a lot less anxiety.Order her book here: https://amzn.to/44geFx6Download her app here: https://solidstarts.com/app/ Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Paula Faris joined us alongside the release of her children’s book Who Do You Want to be When You Grow Up to share insights on how we should focus on more than just what our kids will be when they grow up. Paula explains that too often, kids are asked what they want to do when they grow up. Instead, we should be asking our children who they want to be when they grow up. Paula says that children should be encouraged to be the best person they can be, not the best worker. Traits like integrity and empathy are so much more important to instill in our children over what they might do for work as adults. It’s Paula’s hope that her book and the conversations around it can help more parents flip the conversation about their kids’ futures. Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

This week, I’m joined by Dr. Sarah Reardon—better known as The Vagina Whisperer—for an important and empowering conversation about pelvic floor health. Dr. Reardon breaks down why understanding and caring for your pelvic floor is crucial through every season of life—from menstruation and pregnancy to postpartum recovery and menopause. We talk about her new book Floored, why pelvic floor issues like urinary leakage and painful sex are so common (but not normal), and why pelvic floor therapy shouldn’t be reserved just for after having a baby. Dr. Reardon also shares what a pelvic floor PT session really looks like, the surprising changes your body goes through during menopause, and how we can better advocate for ourselves in a healthcare system that often overlooks these issues. Whether you’re years away from kids, deep in postpartum, or navigating perimenopause, this episode is packed with information every woman should know. Order her book here: https://amzn.to/4dTqC09 Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Lo Bosworth joins us today to chat all about gut health! After educating herself on the connection between gut health and all other facets of health, Lo was inspired to found Love Wellness. Love Wellness is a women’s wellness brand that focuses on vaginal, gut, and hormonal health. Lo tells us that one of the most overlooked parts of gut health is its connection to vaginal health. Believe it or not, the gut microbiome can impact vaginal wellness as well! Lo has so many great insights and encourages all women to get in touch with their microbiome health. Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Many moms struggle with their mental health after giving birth. For some, this might be a sign of a more serious problem. In this episode, Sarah Wynter joined us to share her experience with post-partum psychosis. Sarah shares how her psychosis developed, and how some of her symptoms manifested. She also tells us the story of how she got help, and women who stood by her side to make sure she got the help she needed. Sarah hopes that by telling her story, other women who have had or are dealing with post-partum mental health struggles will feel less alone. If you or someone you know is struggle, help is available. Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

This week, I’m joined by Christina Perri — singer-songwriter, mom, and now children’s book author — for a truly special conversation. We talk about how becoming a mother completely reshaped her life and career, the real work she’s done on her mental health, and what it’s been like turning her song “A Thousand Years” into a children’s book. Christina shares openly about the highs and lows of motherhood, the importance of therapy, and how she’s learned to stay grounded and present in the chaos of raising young kids. She also shares her journey through loss and healing, how she’s teaching her daughters about emotions, and why putting her mental health first has made her a better mom, partner, and person. This conversation is raw, emotional, and so full of heart — I hope it leaves you feeling seen, supported, and reminded that you’re not alone in whatever season you’re in. Order her book here: https://amzn.to/4kscuxy Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Jamie Kern Lima joins us this week to share all about her experience with surrogacy, and how why she chose surrogacy on her path to motherhood. Jamie tells us how she founded and sold IT Cosmetics while at the same time struggling with such an emotional fertility journey. Eventually, Jamie and her husband decided to pursue surrogacy, and today we walk through to whole process from selecting a surrogate to welcoming her babies. At the time, Jamie’s book Believe It had just come out as well, which is so inspirational whether you are dealing with fertility struggles or not. Jamie has such great insight into the surrogacy process, and she hopes that sharing her journey will help other people feel empowered in their own journeys to parenthood. Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

This week, I’m joined by Dr. Morgan Cutlip—psychologist, author, and someone I absolutely love learning from—to talk about one of the most common and complicated parts of relationships after kids: the mental load. You know, the endless invisible checklist running through your head, the nagging feeling that you're doing more, and the challenge of keeping your relationship strong through it all. We talk about how hard it can be to explain the mental load to your partner without it turning into a fight, why resentment builds (and how to let go of it), and the real link between how supported you feel outside the bedroom… and how connected you feel inside it. Dr. Morgan also shares what surprised her most while writing her new book, A Better Share, including the role communication plays in keeping couples close—not just as parents or roommates, but as partners who still want to have fun, laugh, and yes, have great sex. This is one of those episodes that I think every couple can relate to. I hope it makes you feel seen and gives you some tools to take back into your own relationship. Order her book here: https://amzn.to/3ZFrpfd Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Having kids can be expensive, and this week Rachel Cruze joins us to give us all the tips on how to budget for babies and beyond. She starts with how to budget before the baby is here, and how to prioritize what you really need to spend the most money on when prepping for baby. We also cover how to save for the medical expenses that come along with having a baby, and when it might be worth it to pay for extra medical insurance. Rachel also has some money saving tips for when our kids grow up into children and teens, like spending more up front on higher quality toys. She also tackles the issue of budgeting for IVF and fertility treatments for families that are considering those options. Rachel has so much great advice in this episode, and she hopes her work can help parents feel less intimidated by the financial side of raising a family! Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

In this deeply honest episode, psychologist and author Dr. Jessica Zucker returns to BDA Baby to talk about her new book “Normalize It” and the personal experience that shaped her path. After experiencing a traumatic second-trimester miscarriage at home, Jessica made it her mission to break the silence around pregnancy loss and maternal mental health. We talk about how stigma, shame, and silence continue to affect women across all stages of life—from girlhood through motherhood—and how storytelling can be a powerful tool for healing. Jessica shares what it was like to grieve while working as a therapist, how her loss led to the viral I Had a Miscarriage movement, and why creating space for women to speak openly is critical. If you’ve ever struggled with how to support a friend through loss, felt isolated in your motherhood journey, or needed permission to speak the hard truth—this conversation is for you. Listen now on all podcast platforms and order her books below. Normalize It: https://amzn.to/44HUni2 I Had a Miscarriage: https://amzn.to/3H3Hp4q Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video

Pregnancy can be hard enough without having to deal with the complexities of grief. Today, Hunter McGrady sat down with us to share some of her experience with losing her brother when she was seven months pregnant. She explains the confusing feelings she felt while trying to process her grief while also being excited to welcome her baby boy. Hunter says her faith and her family got her through. We also touch on the nuances of plus size pregnancy, and Hunter’s experience with body image as a plus size person during and after pregnancy. Hunter hopes that by showing her own honesty and vulnerability, other women will know that they are not alone. Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

In this episode, I’m joined by clinical psychologist and author Dr. Nikki Pensak to talk all about the postpartum brain—what’s really happening neurologically after birth, why it can feel so overwhelming, and how we can shift the narrative from “mom brain” to one of strength and growth. Dr. Nikki breaks down the science behind the brain’s transformation in motherhood, explains why this time can leave us feeling so emotionally rattled, and shares practical tools for calming new mom anxiety. We also talk about postpartum depression, anxiety, and OCD—how to know when something is more than just “baby blues,” and why early mental health support is so crucial. Whether you're currently postpartum, supporting someone who is, or just curious about the incredible changes that come with matrescence, this episode offers powerful perspective and helpful takeaways. Listen now and check out Dr. Nikki’s book, Rattled: How to Calm New Mom Anxiety with the Power of the Postpartum Brain here: https://amzn.to/3ERPIzH Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

This week we got to talk with Glen Henry the founder of Beleaf in Fatherhood. Their mission is to “equip fathers to Love and Lead their families into eternity” and Glen is doing just that. Today, Glen shares about his decision to become a stay-at-home father, and what it was like to step into the role of a full-time caregiver. Glen encourages every dad to make sure to take an active role in parenting. He tells us that men can learn so much from parenting, making them not just fathers, but father figures. Glen hopes that every dad can learn to be present and involved in their kid’s lives and find joy in it! Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with actress, director, and author Lake Bell to talk about her deeply personal journey as a mother, and the inspiration behind her new children’s book All About Brains. Sparked by her daughter’s epilepsy diagnosis, Lake shares how her family reshaped the narrative around neurological differences—turning fear and confusion into empowerment and pride. We discuss the importance of using real language with kids, raising awareness around neurodiversity, and how representation and open conversation can help children feel seen, safe, and celebrated. Lake also opens up about parenting challenges, co-parenting, and what it means to model imperfection with honesty and grace. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, educator, or simply someone who wants to better understand and support neurodiverse kids—this episode is full of wisdom, compassion, and practical takeaways. Listen now and grab a copy of All About Brains here: https://amzn.to/44WlqGk Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Gaby Dalkin joins us this week to share her journey to conceiving her daughter Poppy, and the struggles she went through along the way. At the time, Poppy was just a few weeks old, and Gaby was living the freshly postpartum life. She shares with us that she went through five miscarriages on her journey to having Poppy, and that she hopes all moms with similar experiences know they are not alone. So many women experience miscarriage, and Gaby hopes sharing her story can help destigmatize the conversation around miscarriage and fertility struggles. Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

In this episode, I sit down with Victoria Thain Gioia, co-founder and CEO of Perelel, to talk about the deeply personal experience that led her to start the company. After learning that her daughter’s birth defect could have been nutrition-related, Victoria began asking hard questions about the gaps in prenatal care and why so many women are left without clear, reliable support during such a crucial time.She shares how that moment of heartbreak became the driving force behind Perelel, what she’s learned about pregnancy loss, what it really means to support a mother through conception, pregnancy, and postpartum, and how she balances being a CEO and mom of four.This conversation is an honest look at the maternal health space, how far we still have to go, and the power of turning pain into purpose. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the choices, unsure of what your body really needs, or just wanted to feel less alone in this journey—this one’s for you. Shop Perelel Health here: https://go.shopmy.us/p-17100145 Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Eva Chen joins us this week to talk all about her book I Am Golden. At the time of recording, her book had just come out, and we go into all of the details that went into creating such an important book for children. I Am Golden follows the story of a daughter to Chinese immigrants in New York, much like Eva’s own story. Today, we talk about her inspiration for creating this book, and how her own experiences shaped Mei’s story in I Am Golden. We also touch on some of her experience as a person of AAPI descent, especially in New York during COVID. Eva explains that she hopes that I Am Golden can serve as positive representation for children of immigrants, and help them see ways to connect with their heritage no matter their age. Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

In this episode, I sit down with my longtime friend Carson Meyer to talk about her beautiful new book, Growing Together: Doula Wisdom and Holistic Practices for Pregnancy, Birth, and Early Motherhood. We reflect on our own journeys into motherhood and dive into the inspiration behind Carson’s work as a doula, writer, and advocate for women navigating pregnancy and postpartum. Carson shares how she was first drawn to birth work, her experience writing a deeply personal book while becoming a mother herself, and why reframing the way we view birth is so important. We talk about the power of choice in pregnancy, how to feel more empowered in your care, and the evolving role of partners in the birth space today. This conversation is filled with insights about honoring your intuition, creating supportive birth environments, and embracing the transformation that comes with becoming a parent. Whether you’re pregnant, postpartum, or simply curious about this path, Carson’s perspective offers both grounding and inspiration. Get her book here: https://amzn.to/4jgKP1O (edited) Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Co-parenting is such a challenging task, and today Eva Amurri joins us to share insights into how she and her ex-husband have made this new parenting dynamic work for themselves. Eva explains that forgiveness and self awareness are some of the most important things to practice when co-parenting after a divorce. In order to show up as the best parents for our children, we have to make sure we’re taking care of ourselves and know when to let some things go. Eva reminds us that disagreements are bound to come up, but centering our children and their needs will help make sure we are navigating these situations as best as possible. She hopes that sharing more about her own co-parenting journey will help destigmatize the process for others. Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Starting solids can feel overwhelming, especially with so much conflicting advice out there. In this episode, I’m joined by pediatric registered dietitian and IBCLC Cinthia Scott to talk about her evidence-based, low-pressure approach to baby-led weaning. As a mom, I wanted to understand how to introduce food in a way that feels calm, safe, and empowering—for both parent and baby. Cinthia breaks down the biggest misconceptions around starting solids, offers advice on when and how to begin, explains how to handle allergen introduction, and shares practical tips for building your baby’s confidence and curiosity around food. If you’re navigating this chapter or just want to feel more supported through it, this episode is for you. Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Emily DiDonato joins us this week to dive into what its like to be a mother while also being a business owner and model. When we spoke, Emily’s baby was just barely one year old and she had just co-founded the skincare brand Covey. In this episode, she shares how she balances all of these aspects of her life and tackles mom guilt that can come up while being a working mother. We also talk about being pregnant while being a model, and how Emily deals with some of the insecurities that can come up while being pregnant and postpartum. Emily also shares how she is hoping to help her own daughter foster a positive self image by leading by example. She explains that becoming a mom and business owner has shifted her perspective and body positivity and self confidence is so important. Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

In this episode, I sit down with world-renowned clinical psychologist and conscious parenting expert Dr. Shefali. We talk about what it really means to parent with presence, and how doing the inner work as adults is essential for raising emotionally grounded kids. Dr. Shefali breaks down the concept of conscious parenting—why it’s not about being perfect, and how it’s actually a path toward healing our own inner child. She shares powerful advice on letting go of cultural pressure, resetting our nervous systems, and raising children with intention instead of control. We also talk about how meditation has transformed my own parenting, and why creating stillness, boundaries, and joy for ourselves is one of the greatest gifts we can give our kids. Dr. Shefali’s insights are grounding, inspiring, and a reminder that parenting isn’t about performance—it’s about presence. Whether you’re in the thick of toddler tantrums, navigating teen years, or doing the inner work for yourself, this conversation will leave you feeling supported and empowered. Get her book, "The Conscious Parent" here: https://amzn.to/3RHiVzT Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Eden Grinshpan joins us this week to talk all about picking eating and getting our kids to try new foods. Eden is a chef and mom, and she has such great tips on how to introduce new foods to kids. She encourages parents to demonstrate curiosity to their kids when trying something new alongside modeling different ways to interact with a new food. Eden also encourages parents to get their kids involved in the cooking process as a way to help them take ownership over what they’rea eating. Picky eating can be so difficult to address, but helping our kids feel empowered at meal time can go a long way! And of course, Eden shares some great nutritious recipes for parents and kids as well. Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!