Rewrite the Mother Code with Dr. Gertrude Lyons

In this episode, I speak with Hayley Mullins, the inventor of the Joeyband and a passionate advocate for newborn safety, about the complexities of redefining the early days of motherhood. As a dedicated founder and mother of two, Hayley opens up about the personal challenges and triumphs that have shaped her philosophy on trusting your intuition and doing what works for you.Hayley shares insights into how she redefined her relationship with traditional baby carriers after a terrifying experience with the startle reflex, navigating the delicate balance between launching a product and raising small children. Our conversation explores the process of questioning societal expectations, the importance of supportive maternity leave, and how embracing skin-to-skin contact leads to deeper connections for the whole family, including non-birthing partners.We delve into actionable practices for living authentically, from taking control of your birth experience to the importance of sharing ideas without waiting for perfectionism. Hayley emphasizes the importance of modeling resilience for her daughters, inspiring others to break free from limiting beliefs and rewrite the Mother Code.You'll also hear about: (03:01) The journey to inventing the Joeyband after a newborn startle reflex incident (07:32) The influence of skin-to-skin care on clinical outcomes and exclusive breastfeeding (14:13) Rewriting the birth experience and supporting mothers during C-sections or physical limitations(19:31) Navigating entrepreneurship, family growth, and the benefits of a 12-month maternity leave (27:18) Actionable practices for new business builders to overcome perfectionism (33:43) Hayley's reflections on rewriting the Mother Code and nourishing your babyDon't miss Hayley's inspiring perspective on finding alignment between personal truth and newborn care!Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts!Learn more about Hayley Mullins:Learn more about JoeybandFollow Joeyband on InstagramConnect with Hayley on LinkedInFollow Dr. Gertrude: Learn more on Dr. Gertrude’s WebsiteFollow Dr. Gertrude on InstagramStay in the loop and sign up to Dr. Gertrude’s SubstackOrder Dr. Gertrude’s new book “Rewrite the Mother Code”

In this episode, I speak with Sonni Abatta, an award-winning and Emmy-nominated journalist, about the complexities of redefining personal narratives and navigating the modern media landscape. As a dedicated media professional and mother of three, Sonni opens up about her transition from spending 15 years in traditional media to creating a digital platform that informs women without the overwhelm.Sonni shares insights into how her highly expressive Italian-American upbringing shaped her emotional intelligence and deep communication skills. Our conversation explores the process of connecting with the inner child, recognizing how early coping mechanisms can transform into powerful adult strengths like discernment and self-soothing.We delve into actionable practices for living authentically, from intentionally consuming news across the ideological spectrum to holding opposing viewpoints without feeling attacked. Sonni emphasizes the importance of not parenting from your own trauma and raising children with the capacity to set boundaries, inspiring others to honor generational strength while rewriting the Mother Code.You'll also hear about:(03:50) The journey from traditional media to digital spaces (08:20) The profound impact of inner child work and family dynamics (14:59) Building emotional intelligence and the ability to self-soothe (24:16) Navigating charged global topics with nuance and multiple perspectives (31:29) Avoiding the trap of parenting from your own childhood trauma (39:46) Blending news and lifestyle with a 25% serious, 75% fun approach (41:22) Sonni's reflections on rewriting the Mother Code through generational strengthDon't miss Sonni's inspiring perspective on finding alignment between personal truth and conscious media consumption!Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts!Learn more about Sonni Abatta:Learn more about Sonni Follow Sonni on InstagramSubscribe to her Youtube channelFollow Dr. Gertrude: Learn more on Dr. Gertrude’s WebsiteFollow Dr. Gertrude on InstagramStay in the loop and sign up to Dr. Gertrude’s SubstackOrder Dr. Gertrude’s new book “Rewrite the Mother Code”

In this episode, I speak with Amy Briggs, a licensed speech and language pathologist and the visionary founder of Aviva, about the profound weight of the "mental load" and how we can reclaim our capacity for joy in parenthood. As a mother of two daughters, Amy shares her journey from clinical practice in public schools to creating a revolutionary tool designed to take the burden of family scheduling off parents' plates.Amy shares insights into how the invisible labor of parenting often clouds the most important part of the journey: the connection we build with our children. Our conversation explores the systemic "codes" and scripts that leave parents feeling like they are never doing enough, and how we can begin to prioritize "being" and presence over the endless cycle of "doing".We delve into actionable perspectives on reclaiming parental intuition, from recognizing the distracting influence of social media to creating scalable solutions for household labor. Amy emphasizes the importance of viewing technology as a true "team member", allowing parents to focus on the "big enchilada" of parenthood rather than the clutter of management.You'll also hear about:(06:05) Amy's journey from speech pathologist to focusing on family capacity (13:03) Dismantling the harmful scripts and invisible labor placed on mothers (16:42) Creating a "life raft": The birth of Aviva as a household team member (27:12) How the Aviva app works to automatically manage family scheduling (36:02) Normalizing the need to offload tasks and ask for help (45:18) Modeling achievement and setting an example for her children (50:42) What it means to rewrite the Mother Code and align with intuition Don't miss Amy's inspiring perspective on finding alignment between efficiency and heart!Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts!Learn more about Amy Briggs:Learn more about AvivaConnect with Amy on LinkedInFollow Dr. Gertrude: Learn more on Dr. Gertrude’s WebsiteFollow Dr. Gertrude on InstagramStay in the loop and sign up to Dr. Gertrude’s SubstackOrder Dr. Gertrude’s new book “Rewrite the Mother Code”

In this deeply thoughtful and expansive conversation, Dr. Gertrude is joined by Rebecca Thompson, MD—family physician, writer, and author of Held Together, a shared memoir exploring motherhood, medicine, and what she calls “imperfect love.”Rebecca’s path to this work began long before the book—rooted in a lifelong relationship with storytelling, and later shaped by her experiences both as a physician and as a patient navigating pregnancy loss and medical complexity. What emerged is a powerful body of work that weaves together her story with the voices of 21 other women, offering a rare and intimate look at how we make sense of our lives through story.Together, Gertrude and Rebecca explore the intersection of motherhood and medicine, the role of community in times of crisis, and how we begin to redefine what it means to mother—far beyond biology or expectation.This conversation is an invitation to slow down, to listen more deeply, and to consider how we choose to make meaning of our lives—even, and especially, when things don’t go as planned.In this episode, you’ll hear:(01:00) Rebecca’s lifelong connection to storytelling—and how writing became her way of making sense of the world(03:40) The moment everything shifted: becoming a patient while training as a physician(06:30) The deep need for community during crisis—and why we don’t have to share the same story to feel less alone(10:00) Redefining support: how community looks different for every woman and every experience(14:00) Growth through challenge—and how our hardest experiences shape who we become(16:30) Inside Held Together: how Rebecca co-created 21 deeply personal stories over a decade(20:00) Why this is not an anthology, but a truly collaborative and interwoven narrative(24:00) “Extraordinary moments in ordinary lives”—and the power of listening to everyday stories(28:00) Expanding the definition of motherhood beyond biology, and making space for grief and choice(36:00) Finding meaning in the ordinary—and why awe is something we can practice(39:00) Fear, discomfort, and curiosity: what scuba diving reveals about how we move through life(42:00) Where to find Rebecca and how she’s bringing narrative medicine into healthcare spaces(45:00) What it means to “rewrite the mother code”: choosing what meaning we make from our livesRate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts!Connect with Rebecca Thompson:Get her book Held Together: A Shared Memoir of Motherhood, Medicine, and Imperfect Love.Visit Rebecca's Website Follow Dr. Gertrude: Learn more on Dr. Gertrude’s WebsiteFollow Dr. Gertrude on InstagramStay in the loop and sign up to Dr. Gertrude’s SubstackOrder Dr. Gertrude’s new book “Rewrite the Mother Code”

In this high-energy and empowering episode, I am joined by Lynn Smith, a nationally recognized media and communication expert, former news anchor for NBC, CNN, and MSNBC, and the creator of the Authority Collective. Lynn shares her journey from the intense, fast-paced world of national news to founding her own business dedicated to helping high-level leaders and entrepreneurs own their voices and amplify their impact.We dive into the "Media Mindset" and how the skills used in the newsroom, clarity, confidence, and concise communication, are the same skills needed to lead a family or a business. Lynn opens up about her own "pivot" moment, the challenges of balancing a high-profile career with motherhood, and how she transitioned from being the face of the news to the architect of her own life.Our conversation also touches on the importance of teaching these communication and confidence skills to the next generation. Lynn shares practical frameworks for parents to help their children navigate a world of constant influence and how to "unwind" dysfunctional wiring to give our children more space and potential.You'll also hear about:(02:22) Lynn’s transition from national news anchor to media consultant and the "aha" moment that sparked the Authority Collective.(08:15) The reality of the newsroom: Lessons learned from the front lines of NBC and CNN about resilience and presence.(14:40) Defining the "Media Mindset": How to communicate with authority in every room you enter, from the boardroom to the living room.(21:10) The "Pivot" Framework: Lynn’s strategy for navigating major life and career changes without losing your North Star.(28:55) Motherhood in the spotlight: Navigating the unique pressures of raising children while maintaining a public-facing career.(35:20) Confidence as a skill: Why we need to stop waiting to "feel" confident and start practicing the behaviors that create it.(42:45) Teaching influence to the next generation: How to support children in recognizing and navigating the "wiring" of social influence.(51:15) Lynn’s definition of Rewriting the Mother Code: Moving from dysfunctional legacy patterns to intentional, empowered leadership.Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts!Connect with Lynn Smith:Visit Lynn's website: lynnsmithtv.comFollow Lynn on Instagram: @lynnsmithtvFollow Dr. Gertrude: Learn more on Dr. Gertrude’s WebsiteFollow Dr. Gertrude on InstagramStay in the loop and sign up to Dr. Gertrude’s SubstackOrder Dr. Gertrude’s new book “Rewrite the Mother Code”

In this deeply moving episode, I sit down with Kristin Mundy, a birth, postpartum, and bereavement doula, and the founder of The Doula Life. Kristin’s journey is one of profound resilience, having navigated the heart-wrenching loss of multiple pregnancies, including her daughter Vienna and son William, before welcoming her Earthside daughter, Senna.We explore how Kristin’s identity was shaped as the only girl among four brothers, where she first discovered her "mother’s helper" energy. This early calling eventually led her to become a doula, a word that literally translates to "mother’s helper", long before she faced her own path through baby loss.Kristin shares the painful reality of being a mother in "limbo", feeling the transformation of motherhood while society fails to recognize that identity without a child on Earth. We discuss her mission to help women remember they are more than their loss stories and the essential work of "mothering oneself" through unimaginable grief. This conversation is a testament to the fact that healing and motherhood can, and do, coexist.You'll also hear about:(02:22) Kristin’s "winding road" from a large family in Niagara to her current life near Toronto.(08:15) Facing the "lightning strike" of repeated late-term losses and the struggle to be seen as a mother by the world.(14:40) Defining the "Mother Code": How Kristin had to expand her definition of motherhood beyond raising an Earthside baby.(21:10) The transition from serving all mothers to specializing in bereavement and pregnancy after loss.(28:55) Reclaiming intuition and rebuilding trust in one's body after it feels like it has "failed".(35:20) The concept of "mothering the sky" - how to continue parenting and loving babies that are no longer here.(42:45) Navigating the "flames" of trying to conceive again and the unique anxiety of pregnancy after loss.(51:15) Kristin’s definition of Rewriting the Mother Code: Giving yourself permission to act out motherhood in your own perfect, unique way.Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts!Connect with Kristin MundyVisit The Doula Life WebsiteListen to the Rainbow Connection podcastFollow Kristin on InstagramFollow Dr. Gertrude: Learn more on Dr. Gertrude’s WebsiteFollow Dr. Gertrude on InstagramStay in the loop and sign up to Dr. Gertrude’s SubstackOrder Dr. Gertrude’s new book “Rewrite the Mother Code”

In this powerful and vulnerable episode, I am joined by Summer Koeste, an award-winning writer, artist, cultural anthropologist, 20-year Alaskan educator, and mother. Summer describes herself as a "nonconformist" who has lived many lives, navigating everything from life-threatening health challenges to living abroad in the high mountains of Argentina and the dancehall reggae world of Jamaica.We explore Summer’s unique perspective on deprogramming the cultural scripts that no longer serve us, a theme she explores deeply in her newsletter, The Feral Stack. She shares how her background in anthropology and her experiences outside of white American culture have given her a "tourist gaze" on our society's values and behaviors, allowing her to question why we adhere to systems that don't help us thrive.Summer also introduces us to the concept of being an "artivist", combining art and activism, which she embraced through songwriting to process her deep "justice sensitivity". From the separation of families at the border to the challenges of mothering a neurodivergent child in an underfunded education system, Summer’s work is a testament to the power of using one’s creative voice to demand collective liberation.You'll also hear about:(02:22) Summer’s "many lives" and how facing a fear of death through asthma and writing shaped her perspective.(08:15) Her upbringing in 1980s Juneau, Alaska, where worth was defined by physical capability.(14:40) Discovering "coded" gender expectations while living as an exchange student in Northern Argentina.(21:10) How Summer used a more masculine persona to find freedom of movement in conservative spaces.(28:55) Her time studying Latin American and Caribbean cultures and becoming immersed in the dancehall reggae world of Jamaica.(35:20) The "Pura Arepa" business in Costa Rica and her experience navigating a dangerous, psychologically abusive relationship.(42:45) Rebuilding a life in Alaska and researching why American culture repeats behaviors that don't lead to happiness.(51:15) Defining the "Artivist": Using songwriting and performance to advocate for justice and collective liberation.Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts!Connect with Summer Koester:Learn more on her WebsiteFollow her on InstagramSubscribe to her SubstackConnect with her on LinkedInFollow Dr. Gertrude: Learn more on Dr. Gertrude’s WebsiteFollow Dr. Gertrude on InstagramStay in the loop and sign up to Dr. Gertrude’s SubstackOrder Dr. Gertrude’s new book “Rewrite the Mother Code”

In this enlightening episode, I am joined by the talented Chellie Carlson, a premier stylist who has turned the art of dressing into a modality for deep healing and self-discovery. Chellie shares her remarkable journey, from growing up on a farm in Missouri to founding her own styling business at the age of 40, just two weeks before the world changed in 2020.We explore why the act of getting dressed is about so much more than just looking "pretty." Chellie discusses her background in the lingerie industry, where she spent 20 years learning how to create safety for women in their most vulnerable moments. This experience laid the foundation for her unique approach to styling, which she views as a form of "body love" and a way to help women outwardly express their most authentic selves.I also share my own personal experience working with Chellie, including the "style trauma" I carried from my past and how her process helped me navigate those old filters to step into a new, empowered identity. Whether you think you need a stylist or not, this conversation will change the way you look at your closet and your reflection.You'll also hear about:(02:22) Chellie's upbringing on a Missouri farm and how her mother's love for fabrics and sewing influenced her path.(08:15) The transition from a 20-year corporate career in the lingerie industry to founding her own styling business at age 40.(14:40) Lessons from the fitting room: Learning to create a "container of safety" for women to confront body shame.(21:10) Why personal styling is a transformational modality rather than a superficial or "materialistic" pursuit.(28:55) Dr. Gertrude shares her personal "style trauma" and how working with a stylist helped heal old filters of identity.(35:20) Using Human Design and Gene Keys as tools to help clients align their internal essence with their external wardrobe.(42:45) The concept of "Dressing for the woman you are becoming" vs. the woman you used to be.(51:15) The generational shift: How Dr. Gertrude's daughter utilized Chellie's services to navigate her own career transition.Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts!Connect with Chellie CarlsonFollow Chellie on InstagramLearn more about Chellie on her WebsiteFollow Dr. Gertrude: Learn more on Dr. Gertrude’s WebsiteFollow Dr. Gertrude on InstagramStay in the loop and sign up to Dr. Gertrude’s SubstackOrder Dr. Gertrude’s new book “Rewrite the Mother Code”

In this deeply mystical and grounding episode, I welcome Canadian author and dream worker Toko-pa Turner. Toko-pa shares the journey behind her award-winning books, Belonging and The Dreaming Way, exploring how our personal search for belonging is often a reflection of a collective epidemic of alienation. We discuss how belonging isn't just an external place to find, but a skill and set of competencies we weave from the inside out.We delve into the profound world of dream work, moving beyond simple interpretation to viewing dreams as "nature naturing through us." Toko-pa explains the Jungian approach to dreams, asking where a wound is taking us rather than just what caused it, and shares her own touching story of how her dreams "parented" her during a difficult youth.Our conversation also touches on the impact of technology on our ability to dream, the importance of "idle moments" for creativity, and a vulnerable share about my own dream regarding my father's passing. Toko-pa closes with a powerful perspective on the "Death Mother" archetype and the necessary work of "remothering" ourselves when healthy models were absent.You'll also hear about:(04:19) The origin of Belonging: How a personal search for connection revealed a collective wound of alienation.(13:44) The difference between Freud and Jung: Freud asks "what happened to you?" while Jung asks "where is this trying to take you?".(15:53) How dreams can "parent" us: Toko-pa's experience of finding guidance from within when she left home at a young age.(20:29) Reframing dreams: Viewing dreams not just as neurological processes, but as nature expressing itself through us.(29:27) Dr. Gertrude's vivid dream about her father after his passing and Toko-pa's validation of visitation dreams.(36:37) The "echo chambers" of social media and how technology exacerbates our sense of alienation.(51:17) The necessity of "idle moments": Why pauses and boredom are essential precursors to creativity and wisdom.(57:13) The "Death Mother" archetype and the lifetime work of "remothering" oneself from the foundations up.Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts!Learn more about Toko-pa TurnerVisit Toko-pa's WebsiteFollow Toko-pa on InstagramFollow Dr. Gertrude: Learn more on Dr. Gertrude’s WebsiteFollow Dr. Gertrude on InstagramStay in the loop and sign up to Dr. Gertrude’s SubstackOrder Dr. Gertrude’s new book “Rewrite the Mother Code”

In this heartfelt solo episode, Dr. Gertrude Lyons reflects on the transition from a monumental year of birthing her book and TEDx talk in 2025 to a year of deep nurturing in 2026. Recording from her sanctuary in Mexico, she shares her personal experiences with slowing down, the pressure of new year resolutions, and the profound lessons she's learned about planning, solitude, and self-mothering.Dr. Gertrude opens up about the "liminal space" of post-creation, feeling lost yet guided by intuition and trusted advisors to embrace a "nurture mode." She discusses the difference between linear "spreadsheet planning" and "dreaming planning," encouraging listeners to trust their desires as a form of strategy. She also shares a vulnerable story about taking four days of solitude in Mexico, initially questioning its necessity, only to discover how critical that space was for her well-being and connection to the environment.This episode is an invitation to explore how we can better nurture ourselves and our creations. Dr. Gertrude also gives a sneak peek into her upcoming retreats in Mexico and Ireland, designing containers for women to drop deep, heal, and connect with the elements and each other.You'll also hear about:(00:32) "Tales from the Tub": Dr. Gertrude's new Substack musings and the joy of different creative mediums .(04:56) Declaring 2026 as a "year of nurturing" for herself, her book, and her community after a year of intense creation .(07:36) Overcoming the fear of media exposure and receiving affirmation from experts like Lynn Smith and Nicole Bigley to step into bigger visibility .(12:44) The two types of planning: "spreadsheet planning" vs. "dreaming planning," and why following your desires is a valid strategy .(15:12) The power of solitude: Dr. Gertrude's experience taking 4 days alone in Mexico and why we often resist giving ourselves necessary space .(18:19) Why retreats are essential for women: creating a container to be tended to, nurtured, and deeply connected to oneself and nature .(20:00) Upcoming retreats: Spring Equinox in Mexico (March) involving temazcal and water work, and two retreats in Ireland (May & October) focusing on the ancient landscape and silence .Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts!Follow Dr. Gertrude: Learn more on Dr. Gertrude’s WebsiteFollow Dr. Gertrude on InstagramStay in the loop and sign up to Dr. Gertrude’s SubstackOrder Dr. Gertrude’s new book “Rewrite the Mother Code”

In this vibrant and deeply insightful episode, I sit down with best-selling author and "happiness expert" Karen Salmansohn. Karen shares her fascinating journey from a high-powered career as an award-winning creative director in advertising to becoming a leading voice in personal development and behavioral change.We dive into her latest book, Your To Die for Life, which explores how embracing our mortality can actually help us live more fully and joyfully. Karen opens up about the pivotal moment of her father's passing and how writing his eulogy inspired her to reverse-engineer her own life to minimize regrets. She introduces powerful concepts like "emotional diversity", the idea that a full life requires a range of emotions, not just happiness, and her unique "mortality marble jar" ritual for visualizing time and prioritizing what truly matters.Our conversation also touches on the power of identity-based habits, the importance of "best mode" over "beast mode," and Karen's experience as a later-in-life mother. She shares practical tools, humorous anecdotes (including a bagel-chewing call with Marisa Tomei!), and her refreshing perspective on rewriting the rules of life and motherhood.You'll also hear about:(06:54) Karen's bold decision to leave a successful advertising career to pursue her dream of writing books .(12:32) The incredible story of how she bypassed her agent to get her manuscript directly to Marisa Tomei .(19:30) How her father's death and writing his eulogy sparked a realization about living intentionally to avoid regrets .(22:06) The research-backed concept that embracing death leads to living more boldly and authentically .(28:33) "Emotional diversity" (emodiversity) and why a life of pure bliss without challenges wouldn't be meaningful .(33:00) The "To-Die List" vs. the To-Do List: focusing on core values and identity-based habits .(35:12) The 7 core values to avoid the top regrets of the dying: Authentic, Brave, Curious, Discerning, Empathic Love, Fun, and Grateful .(51:23) The "Mortality Marble Jar" visual tool for tracking time left and ensuring monthly highlights .(01:03:22) Karen's personal take on "Rewrite the Mother Code": proving that energetic, vibrant motherhood is possible later in life .Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts!Learn more about Karen SalmansohnVisit Karen's main website: notsalmon.comLearn about her new book and coaching: yourtodieforlife.comFollow Karen on Instagram: @notsalmonRead her Substack: The Stand Up PhilosopherFollow Dr. Gertrude: Learn more on Dr. Gertrude’s WebsiteFollow Dr. Gertrude on InstagramStay in the loop and sign up to Dr. Gertrude’s SubstackOrder Dr. Gertrude’s new book “Rewrite the Mother Code”

In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Courtney Boylan, the founder of LeiLolo, a brand dedicated to revolutionizing the postpartum market by turning sterile, clinical accessories into beautiful, empowering essentials. Courtney shares her personal journey from corporate life at Target and Amazon to becoming an entrepreneur, driven by her own postpartum struggles and the desire to feel like herself again after childbirth.We discuss the genesis of LeiLolo, which started with a simple frustration over losing clear nipple shields and evolved into a mission to honor new mothers. Courtney opens up about the vulnerability of launching a business while raising young children, the invaluable support of her husband, and the parallels between birthing a baby and birthing a brand.Our conversation delves into the importance of self-mothering, establishing rituals like journaling and early morning connection, and the cultural shift needed to prioritize the mother's well-being alongside the baby's. Courtney passionately advocates for normalizing all aspects of the female body and postpartum experience, reminding us that "there's no one who deserves pretty accessories more than a new mom."You'll also hear about:(03:37) The "nipple shield epiphany": how losing clear shields led Courtney to design beautiful, colored alternatives .(04:25) Why postpartum products are often "stale and sterile" and make moms feel like patients rather than creators of life .(09:08) The pivotal role Courtney's husband played in pushing her to follow her dream and the emotional journey of taking that leap .(14:05) Breaking the stigma around female bodily functions and products, like hiding tampons or nursing pads .(19:34) Courtney's philosophy that LeiLolo is a "company for moms," regardless of how they choose to feed their babies .(29:48) The power of journaling as a release and self-connection tool during early motherhood .(31:44) Establishing a morning routine with her husband at 5 AM to connect before the chaos of the day begins .(40:08) Letting go of rigid visions for the future and learning to be present in the messy, beautiful "now" of motherhood and business .(45:03) The funny story behind the name "LeiLolo" and its accidental perfect meaning .(46:15) Courtney's definition of "Rewrite the Mother Code": living authentically, following your dreams, and believing in your power as a woman .Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts!Learn more about Courtney Boylan & LeiLoloVisit LeiLolo WebsiteFollow LeiLolo on InstagramFollow Dr. Gertrude: Learn more on Dr. Gertrude’s WebsiteFollow Dr. Gertrude on InstagramStay in the loop and sign up to Dr. Gertrude’s SubstackOrder Dr. Gertrude’s new book “Rewrite the Mother Code”

In this inspiring episode, I sit down with my friend Susie Transou, founder of Hearth and Soul, a unique retail concept that feels more like a home than a store. Susie shares her fascinating journey from growing up in the beer industry and running a large beverage distributorship with her husband to launching a completely new venture at age 50.We discuss the pivotal moment at a birthday party where a life coach's vision sparked the idea for Hearth and Soul, and how Susie turned that spark into a reality within 48 hours. Susie opens up about the transition from corporate life to entrepreneurship, highlighting the importance of community, hospitality, and the courage to ask for help, both professionally and personally.Our conversation delves into the challenges of self-care for high achievers. Susie shares the concept of "the goose and the golden egg," emphasizing that to continue producing, one must take care of oneself. We also touch on the power of vulnerability, sharing our struggles, and the profound impact of her mother's openness about addiction on Susie's own comfort with sharing her story.You'll also hear about:(03:40) The birthday party retreat and life coaching session that planted the seed for Hearth and Soul .(05:27) How Hearth and Soul was born in 48 hours with a vision of a "kitchen" gathering place for community .(10:00) Susie's realization that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness, and crucial for success in work and motherhood .(17:00) The three core pillars of Hearth and Soul: Home, Friend, and Family, and how they shape the customer experience .(29:51) The "goose and the golden egg" analogy for self-care: why taking care of yourself is essential for sustaining achievement .(36:59) A therapist's assignment for Susie to sit still with her daughter for 15 minutes a day, and the challenge of simply "being" .(43:08) Susie's definition of "Rewrite the Mother Code": being open to new and different ways to mother beyond traditional roles .Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts!Learn more about Susie Transou & Hearth and SoulShop online at hearthandsoul.comFollow Hearth and Soul on Instagram Follow Dr. Gertrude: Learn more on Dr. Gertrude’s WebsiteFollow Dr. Gertrude on InstagramStay in the loop and sign up to Dr. Gertrude’s SubstackOrder Dr. Gertrude’s new book “Rewrite the Mother Code”

In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Harper A. Bailey (the pen name of Teosha Bailey), a public health leader, speaker, and author of the powerful new memoir It Was Her. Harper shares the deeply personal and spiritual journey of bringing her book to life, a process she describes as a "co-creation with God and my ancestors."We discuss how the idea for her memoir came to her four years ago as a "God idea," and how a vivid dream on her birthday finally pushed her to commit to writing it. Harper opens up about the vulnerability of sharing her story, particularly the heavy first chapter about her mother's transition, and the writer's block she had to overcome. She reveals her unique writing process, which included creating a sacred shrine with photos of her ancestors, using music and scents to set the mood, and dedicating time for writing retreats around the world, from Hawaii to Rome.Our conversation also touches on the healing power of storytelling within families. Harper shares how her book has sparked profound conversations with her son, aunt, and cousins, allowing them to see her in a new light and uncover hidden family histories. We explore the concept of "self-mothering" through the creative process, the importance of celebrating small milestones (like hitting word counts with ice cream!), and the profound realization that wholeness is our birthright.You'll also hear about:(03:52) The vivid dream that finally pushed Harper to write her book after being stuck for a year and a half .(04:14) How Harper gifted herself a writing retreat at a hotel and left with a complete outline for her memoir .(07:59) Her "YOLO Mother's Days" tradition: traveling to Rome with her aunts instead of doing the traditional "pancakes and construction paper" routine .(15:37) The detailed "shrine" Harper created for her writing sessions, featuring photos of her ancestors to remind her she wasn't alone .(18:10) Using the four elements (earth, air, fire, water) and sensory details like music and incense to create a sacred writing space .(26:37) How her book has opened up new dialogues with her family, including her son realizing what she was going through as a mother .(29:59) Harper's core message for readers: "Wholeness is your birthright," and you have the power to reclaim your narrative .(41:20) Her definition of "Rewrite the Mother Code": being authentically who you are, mothering in any season, and learning how you want to be mothered yourself .Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts!Learn more about Harper A. BaileyBuy her memoir, It Was HerFollow Harper on Instagram Learn more about Harper on her WebsiteFollow Dr. Gertrude: Learn more on Dr. Gertrude’s WebsiteFollow Dr. Gertrude on InstagramStay in the loop and sign up to Dr. Gertrude’s SubstackOrder Dr. Gertrude’s new book “Rewrite the Mother Code”

In this profound episode, I sit down with Chameli Ardagh, a yogini, mystic, and founder of Awakening Women. Chameli shares her powerful personal journey, beginning with a childhood in Norway deeply connected to nature but marked by family volatility. She recounts her early escape into spirituality as a way to transcend suffering, only to realize later, through a pivotal moment of reckoning, that true spiritual awakening requires full embodiment and confronting our own internal "warfare".Our conversation delves deep into the concept of the Divine Feminine and how patriarchal structures have historically co-opted or erased goddess wisdom. Chameli illuminates how ancient myths, from the Greek god Apollo to the Norse god Odin, reflect a pattern of conquering and stealing feminine wisdom rather than honoring it. We explore the transformative power of women gathering in circles, leaving dogma at the door, and using embodiment practices like dance and song to reconnect with their innate spiritual authority.Chameli passionately describes her work in creating spaces, both online and through retreats in Greece, where women can reclaim their "golden mead" of wisdom without needing a middleman. We discuss the critical need for a new way of living that honors the "mother code" at the center of existence, moving from power-over to power-with, and birthing a future rooted in balance and love.You'll also hear about:(04:05) Chameli's upbringing in Norway and her early spiritual seeking as an escape from suffering.(07:46) Her "9/11 moment" of realizing her internal state mirrored the warfare in the world, leading to a shift from transcendence to embodiment.(14:33) Meeting the goddesses as a "hall of mirrors," revealing that all expressions, even anger and lust, can be holy.(20:48) How mythology illustrates the "top-down, exploitive energy" of the left brain conquering the body and feminine wisdom.(30:36) The story of Odin stealing the "golden mead" of wisdom from a giant goddess, a metaphor for patriarchal appropriation of feminine knowledge.(34:39) The importance of not burning down the old structures but "walking away" to create new, life-affirming systems.(40:36) Chameli's Summer Goddess Ashram in Corfu, Greece: a space for women to refill their inner wells through dance, ritual, and connection.(53:23) Chameli's definition of "Rewrite the Mother Code": a reclamation of the mother principle as the center of life and a rewriting of our future in partnership with evolution.Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts!Learn more about Chameli ArdaghLearn more on Chameli's WebsiteListen to the Living Goddess PodcastFollow Dr. Gertrude: Learn more on Dr. Gertrude’s WebsiteFollow Dr. Gertrude on InstagramStay in the loop and sign up to Dr. Gertrude’s SubstackOrder Dr. Gertrude’s new book “Rewrite the Mother Code”