Laura Asks About Motherhood

Andrea mentioned that she works as a Music Therapist with preschoolers with autism, and also volunteers with the Arizona Music Therapy Association (or AZMTA, you can learn more at azmta.org). She is from the city in Wisconsin (Milwaukee), and her husband is from the country in Colorado, and now they live in Arizona. She talked about how those different backgrounds influence her parenting. Andrea shared she grew up as an only child, and how that affects the parenting of her two kids. She talked about finding ways to recognize and lesson anxiety and pressure as a parent, which was very helpful for me! If you would like to come on the podcast to share your experiences of being a mom, send me a message! Or if you know someone who would be interested in being on the podcast, send them my way! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, leave a rating and review, and thanks for listening!

Frances talked about how intense the postpartum period was, and even more so after her second child was born. She mentioned there are resources now to help families transition with a new child, such as 4th Trimester AZ. She talked about her breastfeeding journey, including pumping at work. She shared she and her husband have a more attachment or gentle parenting approach. She talked about her episcopal faith as well as spiritual exploration. Frances shared that she sometimes found herself going counter culture to follow her gut in parenting. She shared about having postpartum rage and weaning depression, but not knowing what they were till after the fact. I mention the book Post Pardon Me, by Suzanne Yatim Aslam, you can find more information at www.suzanneyatimaslam.com. Frances also teaches Bradley Childbirth Education classes, you can learn more at www.bradleybirth.com/franceslandreth. I can vouch that she is a great instructor! If you would like to come on the podcast to share your experiences of being a mom, send me a message! Or if you know someone who would be interested in being on the podcast, send them my way! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, leave a rating and review, and thanks for listening!

My good friend, Gina, interviews me about my pregnancy again! I talk about how I'm feeling in my 3rd trimester, my hopes and plans for the labor and birth, and a bunch of other stuff. I mention the parenting podcasts I am currently listening to, which are the Badass Breastfeeding Podcast, specifically the episode from July 18, 2022 called "How Policy Changes Affect Breastfeeding and Parenting", Evidenced Based Birth, Evolutionary Parenting Podcast and Birthright. Also, I shout out Blossom Birth Center for their awesome prenatal care. I highly recommend them if you are in the Phoenix area. If you would like to come on the podcast to share your experiences of being a mom, send me a message! Or if you know someone who would be interested in being on the podcast, send them my way! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, leave a rating and review, and thanks for listening!

Katie talked about her infertility journey, and the depression she experienced tied to infertility. She spoke about having preeclampsia in her last pregnancy, and how that has altered her plans for future kids. She spoke about having more compassion since becoming a mom. She shared she is a member of The Church of Latter Day Saints, and how her relationship to God shapes how she mothers. Katie talked about her mother passing away when she was 4 years old, and shared how she has two moms since her step-mom has been such a great mother to her. Katie talked about the small joys in parenting, and how much she values the little things. If you would like to come on the podcast to share your experiences of being a mom, send me a message! Or if you know someone who would be interested in being on the podcast, send them my way! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, leave a rating and review, and thanks for listening!

Darcy shares openly about her secondary infertility issues with the miscarriages and stillbirth she experienced. We mention The Compassionate Friends, and The Miss Foundation, which are two nonprofit resources for grief and loss. Darcy shared her journey to wellness and healing with Traditional Chinese Medicine and her own personal practices that led to her starting A Deep Well, her business offering alternative support services specifically in the birth field. Click HERE for more information. Part of that journey included Darcy reading the book Zero Limits The Secret Hawaiian System for Wealth, Health, Peace and More by Joe Vitale and Ihaleakala Hew Len, PhD. In the book she learned about the practice of Ho'oponopono, which has influenced her entire life. Darcy also emphasized the importance of naps. If you would like to come on the podcast to share your experiences of being a mom, send me a message! Or if you know someone who would be interested in being on the podcast, send them my way! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, leave a rating and review, and thanks for listening!

Mary talked about feeling so empowered after giving birth to each of her three children. She talked about working as a music therapist, getting a doctoral degree in education and combining her music therapy and education work. She has worked as a music therapist for over 3 decades, and has worked in the birth field for 25 years. She offers several courses in birth work for music therapists, like Music Therapy Assisted Childbirth, but also services for birthing families. You can find out more information at soundbirthingmusic.com. Mary also talked about having celiac disease, and the huge transition it was to take wheat out of her diet, especially since she married into an Italian family. Mary talked about being Catholic and raising her kids in the church. She shared that one of the hardest parts of mothering is when her kids get sick and/or need surgery. She shared a lot of joy in her journey as a mother, even now as her two older children navigate adulthood. If you would like to come on the podcast to share your experiences of being a mom, send me a message! Or if you know someone who would be interested in being on the podcast, send them my way! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, leave a rating and review, and thanks for listening!

This week is a break from interviews to continue a mini-series within the podcast that will recap advice given from previous guests. Today's recap is advice given from 5 previous guests: Marcela from episode 26, Mary G from episode 29, Jes from episode 30, Derrelyn from episode 31, and Jermeika from episode 33. If you want to come on the podcast and share your experiences of being a mom, send me (Laura Pruett) a message! Or if you know someone who would like to come on the podcast, send them my way! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, leave a rating and review, and thanks for listening!

I forgot time keeps passing. Another episode will come out next Wednesday, July 6. If you would like to come on the podcast to share your experiences of being a mom, send me a message! Or if you know someone who would be interested in being on the podcast, send them my way! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, leave a rating and review, and thanks for listening!

Marquisa talked about working as a Speech Language Pathology Assistant and being a graduate student to become a Speech Language Pathologist. Because of her schooling and work, Marquisa stressed the importance of reading and talking to your child. Marquisa shared she felt a lot of pressure when her daughter was a baby, but now loves the 3-4 year old ages. She talked about using natural family planning and knew the exact date of conception. She talked so sweetly about her super supportive husband, and how he does a lot with their daughter since Marquisa's body grew, birthed, and fed their child. Marquisa shared about that since she is Black, she was especially at risk during her perinatal experience because the Black maternal mortality rate is so high here in the United States. She also shared about getting carpal tunnel and mother's thumb, and how hard and rewarding breastfeeding was. Marquisa shared she is not sure where she falls on the religious spectrum, but her white husband is devoutly Muslim. Marquisa talked about how they have lots of help raising their mixed race daughter in their multigenerational household. Marquisa shared that her brother Ahkeen passed away a few years ago, and they do a lot to honor and incorporate his memory in raising her daughter. Marquisa shared that The Compassionate Friends support groups have been so helpful for her family. To learn more, you can visit compassionatefriends.org. If you would like to come on the podcast to share your experiences of being a mom, send me a message! Or if you know someone who would be interested in being on the podcast, send them my way! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, leave a rating and review, and thanks for listening!

Tina talked about becoming a mom at the young age of 21, and the career changes she made to better support her family. She shared about using hormonal birth control and the migraines they caused, which led her to use the fertility awareness method. The more she learned about women's health, the more fascinated she became. She now works as a freelance copywriter, focusing on women's health. You can learn more at christinamarieagency.com. One particular article on her website that caught my eye is "5 Ways to care for yourself after childbirth: and 6 must-have items". For anyone getting ready for childbirth, go check it out! Tina also talked about separating from her first child's father, being a single parent for a few years, and now parenting with her current partner. She shared that she grew up with her aunt taking her to church, and even though she has chosen a different Christian faith as an adult, she still teaches her children about Jesus. Tina talked about growing up with a big Mexican family and continuing the food traditions. She shared her musical childhood and talked about continuing the love of music with her partner and their kids now. If you would like to come on the podcast to share your experiences of being a mom, send me a message! Or if you know someone who would be interested in being on the podcast, send them my way! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, leave a rating and review, and thanks for listening!

Danita shared about having postpartum depression, and the lack of support she had in those early days. She spoke about the importance of support throughout the interview. If you, or anyone you know, is experiencing a post-partum mood disorder, there are resources to help! One is the Postpartum Support International, at postpartum.net. You can call their helpline at 1-800-944-4773 or text "HELP" to that same number, 800-944-4773. If you are in the United States, you can also call the National Helpline any day, any time of day, at 1-800-662-HELP or 1-800-662-4357. Danita shared about the relationship she had and has with her child's father, and the journey that has taken. She shared a little about her spiritual path that led her to A Course in Miracles. You can learn more at acim.org. She shared that her spirituality affects her parenting greatly, and gave the examples of doing yoga and meditation with her son. Danita shared about being a Black mom to her mixed son. She talked about being a Sagittarius surrounded by Pisces family members. She talked about being exhausted and the importance of making parenting fun. She also talked about how parenting influenced her choice to get a master's in Applied Behavior Analysis and Gifted Education. Danita also talked about the Arizona Birth Network, a non-profit organization that she has been the president of since March 2020. You can learn more at arizonabirthnetwork.org. If you would like to come on the podcast to share your experiences of being a mom, send me a message! Or if you know someone who would be interested in being on the podcast, send them my way! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, leave a rating and review, and thanks for listening!

Suzanne shares openly about being shell shocked after having her first child. She talked about developing postpartum depression and anxiety, an experience she writes about in her book, Post Pardon Me, which you can purchase here. If you, or anyone you know, is experiencing a post-partum mood disorder, there are resources to help! One is the Postpartum Support International, at postpartum.net. You can call their helpline at 1-800-944-4773 or text "HELP" to that same number, 800-944-4773. If you are in the United States, you can also call the National Helpline any day, any time of day, at 1-800-662-HELP or 1-800-662-4357. Suzanne talked about her Middle Eastern culture, and being a child of immigrants from Bethlehem. She talked about her family's religious roots are Greek Orthodox, but she was raised as Pentecostal, and her spiritual journey since becoming an adult. Suzanne talked about exploring what she and her husband want to pass down to their mixed race kids, and how religion and culture are very intertwined. She talked about a lot of other things as well, enjoy the episode! If you would like to come on the podcast to share your experiences of being a mom, send me a message! Or if you know someone who would be interested in being on the podcast, send them my way! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, leave a rating and review, and thanks for listening!

Kari talked about growing up in the German Baptist religion, and how her spiritual journey has changed and evolved over the years. She is queer identifying, and talked about how important it is to her to have a supportive community, where she can give and receive support to those around her. Kari talked about how being in, and then leaving, an abusive relationship led to placing her son in an open adoption with a lesbian couple. If you are in an abusive relationship, you can call 800-799-7233 or text START to 88788 for help and resources. Kari shared she was able to give birth in the adoptive parents' home, and how that helped the transition for placing him with his new family. She shared she had postpartum depression but had her placenta encapsulated, which helped ease her symptoms. If you, or someone you know, is experiencing postpartum mental health issues, there are resources to help. One is the Postpartum Support International, at postpartum.net. You can call their helpline at 1-800-944-4773 or text "HELP" to 800-944-4773. Text en español to 971-203-7773. If you are in the United States, you can also call the National Helpline any day, any time of day, at 1-800-662-HELP or 1-800-662-4357. Happy Mental Health Awareness Month! If you would like to come on the podcast to share your experiences of being a mom, send me a message! Or if you know someone who would be interested in being on the podcast, send them my way! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, leave a rating and review, and thanks for listening!

Vanessa talked about being a young mom. People expected her life to stop, or for her to put her dreams and goals on hold because of having kids at a young age. But with the help of her husband and family, she made it through school, work and raising young children. She also talked about continually finding a balance between her career and raising her kids. She talked about how important it is to receive help when offered, and to ask for help when you need it. She talked about the importance of community, especially as a first time mom with a young baby. Vanessa talked about soaking in the joyful, bonding, good times with her kids to help her get through the hard times. She shared that long road trips with even young kids is not only doable, but fun! She peppered in words of advice throughout, including the idea to stash diapers and an extra outfit anywhere and everywhere just in case. I referenced The Badass Breastfeeding Podcast, specifically episode 82 when they interview Tracy Cassels, PhD. You can find that episode here. As a mental health professional herself, Vanessa also encouraged talking to a mental health professional and/or your doctor if you are experiencing postpartum depression, or any postpartum mental health issue. If you, or someone you know, is experiencing postpartum mental health issues, there are resources to help. One is the Postpartum Support International, at postpartum.net. You can call their helpline at 1-800-944-4773 or text "HELP" to 800-944-4773. Text en español to 971-203-7773. If you are in the United States, you can also call the National Helpline any day, any time of day, at 1-800-662-HELP or 1-800-662-4357. Happy Mental Health Awareness Month! If you would like to come on the podcast to share your experiences of being a mom, send me a message! Or if you know someone who would be interested in being on the podcast, send them my way! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, leave a rating and review, and thanks for listening!

Ann shared about raising her young kids in Japan and Germany while her husband was in the military. She shared about how she always wanted to be a mom, so the transition to motherhood was fairly easy for her. She shared about how she had to adapt to each kid to know how to best discipline and help them. She shared about the difficulties of finding mental health help for one of her children, especially as he went through puberty. She shared how being a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints was like having a built in family, no matter where in the world they lived. She talked about the importance of play and being silly with her kids, and having a sense of humor. She talks about how quickly time has gone by with her five kids now grown, and how grandkids are the reward for parenting. If you would like to come on the podcast to share your experiences of being a mom, send me a message! Or if you know someone who would be interested in being on the podcast, send them my way! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, leave a rating and review, and thanks for listening!

My good friend, Gina, interviews ME about my pregnancy! I talk about my health journey, the differences between 1st and 2nd trimesters, the prep I did before pregnancy and now during pregnancy, and a bunch of other stuff. If you would like to come on the podcast to share your experiences of being a mom, send me a message! Or if you know someone who would be interested in being on the podcast, send them my way! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, leave a rating and review, and thanks for listening!

I am taking March and April off from publishing episodes due to my upcoming surgery and the busy-ness of life. I am still collecting interviews, so if any of you want to share your experiences of being a mom, let me know! Or if you know someone who wants to come on the podcast, send them my way! I'd love to chat. Episodes will resume in 2 months, on May 4. In the meantime, please subscribe, leave a rating and review, and thanks for listening!

I am taking a month off, listen to find out the reason why. I am still collecting interviews, so if any of you want to share your experiences of being a mom, let me know! Or if you know someone who wants to come on the podcast, send them my way! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Episodes will resume in a month, on March 2, 2022. In the meantime, Happy Black History month! Happy Lunar New Year! Please subscribe, leave a rating and review, and thanks for listening!

Melissa shared about being a young mom having postpartum depression and anxiety with both of her children, but much more intensely with her first child. She shared about how having her second child has helped her grow as a mom, and shared that her Christian faith has helped her through many days and nights. Melissa talked about moving from California to South Carolina recently, partly because she and her husband wanted their family to grow up in a slower paced culture. Melissa shared the joys of motherhood, and the things she can laugh about now, even though they were hard in the moment. She shares how much she loves spending time with her children, especially when reading aloud to them and mentioned Read Aloud Revival, a podcast to which she listens. You can learn more at readaloudrevival.com. If you would like to come on the podcast to share your experiences of being a mom, send me a message! Or if you know someone who would be interested in being on the podcast, send them my way! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, leave a rating and review, and thanks for listening!

Amy talked about being a teen mom and a single mom. She shared that being spiritual, and eventually finding her way to Catholicism, has shaped a lot of her life and mothering. She talked about how living in a trailer park in North Carolina, then moving to California with her family, affected her and her mothering. She talked about being Korean and white, and how her daughter is mixed, Korean and Filipinx, has shaped their experiences in life. Amy talks about her siblings, and how her youngest sister affected their whole family before her passing. Amy talks about how she grew as a person through and with her daughter, and gushes about her daughter so much, it's really sweet. If you would like to come on the podcast to share your experiences of being a mom, send me a message! Or if you know someone who would be interested in being on the podcast, send them my way! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, leave a rating and review, and thanks for listening!

This week is a break from interviews to continue a mini-series within the podcast that recaps advice given from previous guests. Today's recap is advice given from 5 previous guests: Jennifer from the 21st interview, Sarah from the 22nd interview, Karla from the 23rd interview, Bobbi from the 24th interview, and Michelle from the 25th interview. Jennifer owns Moxie Midwifery, which is a midwife practice that serves the Phoenix area. You can find more info at moxiemidwife.com. If you want to come on the podcast and share your experiences of being a mom, send me (Laura Pruett) a message! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, and thanks for listening!

Andrea shared about having her first child when she was 22. She talked about having postpartum depression, but not realizing it till years later. If you are struggling with postpartum depression, or any other mental health issue, please reach out to someone. If you don't know where to start, and you are in the United States, you can call the 24/7 National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP or 1-800-662-4357. Andrea shared her journey of being married, getting divorced, and now being newly engaged. She talked about being Hispanic, and how culture in South Florida shapes her mothering. She talked about being very involved as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints for much of her life, and now finding new ways to engage in spirituality by focusing on inner peace. She talked about letting the little things go and being present. If you would like to come on the podcast to share your experiences of being a mom, send me a message! Or if you know someone who would be interested in chatting with me, send them my way! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, and thanks for listening!

This week is a break from interviews to continue a mini-series within the podcast that will recap advice given from previous guests. Today's recap is advice given from 5 previous guests: Brianna from the 16th interview, Matti from the 17th interview, Tiffany from the 18th interview, Gabby from the 19th interview and Janai from the 20th interview. Matti talked about gentle parenting, and she mentions the book The Danish Way (you can find more information here). Some Instagram accounts Matti suggests about gentle parenting are @BigLittleFeelings and @MrChazz. Also, I mention suicidal ideation in this episode. I'm fine, but if you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out to someone. If you're not sure where to start, and you live in the United States, you can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. If you want to come on the podcast and share your experiences of being a mom, send me (Laura Pruett) a message! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, and thanks for listening!

Colleen talked about growing up with 6 siblings. She shared she had her first child when she was 17, and lived with her parents for a while. She talked about getting married and divorced twice. She is now a widow, as her third husband passed from an allergic reaction. Colleen talked about working nights so she could be present with her kids during the day, and be a part of their lives. She shared that she finds joy in all aspects of life and just loves life so much. If you would like to come on the podcast to share your experiences of being a mom, send me a message! Or if you know someone who would be interested in chatting with me, send them my way! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, and thanks for listening!

Erika talked about growing up in Texas, and being surprised that she ended up moving out of Texas. She shared her speculation of what it could have been like if she had kids in her 20's. She talked about learning every day that her kids are very different and require different parenting. She talked about being a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, but her husband is not religious at all. She shared about her mother, before and after she passed away. Erika advised to take pictures of everything, even the frustrating or hard moments. She shared the joys she has with her kids in the little moments together. If you would like to come on the podcast to share your experiences of being a mom, send me a message! Or if you know someone who would be interested in chatting with me, send them my way! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, and thanks for listening!

Brittni talked about what it's like having grown up in Texas but now lives in Utah. She talked about learning how to just go with the flow when she had kids. She talked so sweetly about her mother and her kids, it's very heart warming. She shared about how she is not very religious, but leaves that door open for her kids. Brittni then imparted the wisdom of getting a carpet shampooer once kids come along. If you would like to come on the podcast to share your experiences of being a mom, send me a message! Or if you know someone who would be interested in chatting with me, send them my way! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, and thanks for listening!

Jermeika talked about how having her first child during a low point in her marriage put an even greater strain on her marriage. She talked about being married, and now being divorced. She shared about having depression and anxiety. If you struggle with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue, please reach out to someone if you have not done so already. If you don't know where to start, and you are in the United States, you can call the 24/7 National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP or 1-800-662-4357. Jermeika talked about how having her kids made her more involved in her church, which brought her closer to God. She shared a lot about how her family, friends and culture have all impacted her mothering. Jermeika is very open about a lot of things, and shared a lot of laughs along with all her experiences and thoughts. If you would like to come on the podcast to share your experiences of being a mom, send me a message! Or if you know someone who would be interested in chatting with me, send them my way! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, and thanks for listening!

This week is a break from interviews to continue a mini-series within the podcast that will recap advice given from previous guests. Today's recap is advice given from the third set of 5 guests: Keri from the 11th interview, Yesenia from the 12th interview, Sara from the 13th interview, LiAna for the 14th interview, and Samantha from the 15th interview. Echoing LiAna and Samantha's words, please reach out to someone if you need help with your mental health. If you're not sure where to start, and you're in the United States, you can call the 24/7 National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP or 1-800-662-4357. If you want to come on the podcast and share your experiences of being a mom, send me (Laura Pruett) a message! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, and thanks for listening!

Derrelyn is the oldest of 6 kids. She wasn't sure how parenting would go because she didn't enjoy babysitting other people's kids, but she found she really enjoys being a mom to her kids. She talked about the unexpected loneliness of motherhood. She talked a lot about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints throughout the interview. She shared her grief over the loss of her mother-in-law. She talked about anxiety, trauma, and going to therapy to work through different things. If you are struggling with any mental health issue, please reach out to someone. If you're not sure where to start, and you live in the United States, you can call the 24/7 National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP or 1-800-662-4357. Derrelyn recommended a book written by Bruce D. Perry, MD, PhD and Oprah Winfrey, called What Happened to You: Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and Healing. It looks like it can be found wherever books are sold. Derrelyn talked about her husband's illness and other unexpected challenges in life and parenting. At the end of the interview, she shared a quote she found from the Instagram account @expectingandempowered that quoted another Instagram account @proudhappymama. If you would like to come on the podcast to share your experiences of being a mom, send me a message! Or if you know someone who would be interested in chatting with me, send them my way! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, and thanks for listening!

Jes grew up as an only child, and was ambivalent towards the idea of having kids initially. She talked about how kids are a mirror for things their parents say and do, but kids are also very much their own person. She shared what it was like to have her second child, and the adjustment it has been for her whole family. She talked about how running a few errands takes so much longer with kids. She talked about not being super religious, and having a culture of spending time with family. Jes shared about feeling pulled in several directions, the challenge of time management, and folded laundry the entire time we talked. She shared that reframing a "tantrum" to "panic attack" helped her and her husband better understand and relate to their daughter. She talked about the challenge of managing big emotions, and the joy of watching her daughters learn and grow. If you want to come on the podcast and share your experiences of being a mom, send me (Laura Pruett) a message! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, and thanks for listening!

Mary shared she always wanted kids, and kept a running list in her mind of things she saw that wanted to do or wanted to not do as a future mother herself. She nannied for a few families before having her first kid, so the transition into motherhood was pretty easy for her. She talked about how pregnancy was really hard for her. During her second pregnancy, Mary's doctors recommended against having any more kids. Mary shared that she was surprised to find out that there are free parenting resources available. She took a free parenting class in her area, and still has connections to some of the people in that class. Mary shared that the lack of sleep, even now when her kids are 9 and 7, is hard. Mary also shared that watching her kids grow up and learn, and sharing her favorite things with them, is amazing. She shared that even with the lack of sleep and sometimes things are hard, parenting is still so fun! If you want to come on the podcast and share your experiences of being a mom, send me (Laura Pruett) a message! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, and thanks for listening!

This week is a break from interviews to continue a mini-series within the podcast that will recap advice given from previous guests. Today's recap is advice given from the second set of 5 guests: Stephanie from the 6th interview, Tracy from the 7th interview, Meghan from the 8th interview, Ginny from the 9th interview, and Sheyla from the 10th interview. To check out Stephanie's blog, go to shineindarkness.blog. If you want to come on the podcast and share your experiences of being a mom, send me (Laura Pruett) a message! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account.

This week is a break from interviews to start a mini-series within the podcast that will recap advice given from previous guests. Today is advice given from the first 5 guests: Mary, Joni, Debi, Dezerrae and Mindy. To check out Debi's music therapy company, visit mindfullmusic.com. Check out Dezerrae's counseling services at Total Life Counseling. To check out Dezerrae's placenta services, visit www.eastvalleyplacenta.com. To check out Mindy's podcast and social medias, search for The Storytinker on any podcast platform, or on YouTube, Instagram or Facebook. If you want to come on the podcast and share your experiences of being a mom, send me (Laura Pruett) a message! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Please subscribe, and thanks for listening!

Marcela was 30 years old when she became a mother, after 5 years of trying for kids. She shares that her kids and her husband are a blessing to her, it's so sweet. She briefly talks about growing up in Lima, Peru. Marcela shares she was in a car accident 4.5 years ago, and the way that changed her life. She talks about her faith throughout the interview, and how her trials and having a relationship to God affects the way she mothers. I mention the Come Follow Me program offered by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, you can read more at churchofjesuschrist.org or on the Gospel Library app, available in any app store. Marcela shares that she was placed for adoption when she was born, and lived with a foster mother till she was almost 3 years old before she was adopted. She talks about what she learned from her foster mother and adoptive mother, and towards the end of the interview she reminds the listener that there are many kids and babies that need loving homes. If you want to come on the podcast and share your experiences of being a mom, send me (Laura Pruett) a message! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account.

Michelle talks about how she and her husband are school teachers, and how that affects their parenting. She talks about struggling with anxiety, trying to let go of the need to control, and finding a balance of knowing when to ask and/or accept help. Michelle talks about planning her first pregnancy, and then having two happy surprise pregnancies because she was too scared to plan for another child after her first. Michelle gushes about her husband and kids, and it is so sweet. Michelle talks about how her religion helps her know her worth and to teach her kids to love everyone. Michelle shares that they have a strong family culture of putting family first, partly because her husband is Tongan, and also partly because Michelle's two oldest siblings passed away during Michelle's childhood. Michelle talks about how both sets of grandparents are very involved with her children, it is so sweet. If you want to come on the podcast and share your experiences of being a mom, send me (Laura Pruett) a message! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account.

Bobbi spent a lot of time around babies and little kids growing up, so becoming a mom was a natural transition for her. She shares about role playing adopting kids when she was a kid, and then adopting her second child. She reflects on the cultural differences between living in Utah, the Los Angeles area and North Georgia. Bobbi talks about having a miscarriage at 14 weeks and the culture of not sharing you are pregnant till after 12 weeks to hide any pregnancy loss, if it happens. Bobbi talks throughout the interview about being a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Bobbi gushes about her husband, it is so sweet. She gushes about each of her kids as she discusses how they're different and how parenting each one is different. Bobbi talks about homeschooling her kids. She talks about how awful healthcare is for women. She talks about losing her dad when she was 19 years old. She shares that she grew up as one of nine kids, and what it's like living far away from family support. She talks about being super extroverted and the importance of community. Bobbi shares her worries and joys as a mom as she talks about her kids. If you want to come on the podcast and share your experiences of being a mom, send me (Laura Pruett) a message! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account.

Karla shares that her first pregnancy was a surprise when she was in grad school, and being so nervous to tell her parents that she was having a child out of wedlock. Her boyfriend, now husband, is a huge support to her, and they planned their second child together. Karla shares the birth story of her son, Francisco, leading to a cesarean birth. At her son's suggestion, Karla then shares the birth story of her daughter, Katalyna, a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean). Karla talks about finding out she had PCOS while pregnant with her daughter, and the importance of having a doctor who will listen to you. Karla talks so sweetly about her husband and her mom throughout the interview. She shares that she was born in Nicaragua and almost died on her journey with her mom to get to the U.S. when she was 2 years old. Karla talks about being undocumented for much of her life and losing some parts of her culture, and how that affects her mothering. She talks about growing up Catholic and how that affects her mothering now. Karla talks about having tough conversations with her kids about things like racism, sexism, homophobia, slavery and genocide. She talks about mom guilt and the uncertainty of making decisions for and about her kids. She also shares the many joys she finds in being a mom. If you want to come on the podcast and share your experiences of being a mom, send me (Laura Pruett) a message! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account.

Sarah talks about being around people a lot before kids, and when she became a mom she was suddenly alone. Sarah shares she has MS and how she needed to plan her pregnancies with her doctors. Sarah talks about the difference of having 1 or 2 kids and a smaller living space versus having 4 kids in a larger living space. Sarah shared that being a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints influences everything about the way she parents. She also talks about how she grew up in the South, but now lives in San Diego, and how the general parenting tone is different in each place. Sarah talks about trying different things with her kids to see what works, managing emotions, the joy of introducing new things to her kids, and the importance of having fun with her kids. If you want to come on the podcast and share your experiences of being a mom, send me (Laura Pruett) a message! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account.

Jennifer did not want kids, and then found out she was pregnant a few years into her first marriage. Her pregnancy opened her up to learning more about natural medicine, and changed the trajectory of her career and whole life. After a while she left the corporate world for birth work, and now owns a midwifery practice serving the Phoenix valley Called Moxie Midwifery. You can find out more at moxiemidwife.com. Jennifer talks about divorcing her first husband, being a single parent and co-parenting, and then getting remarried. She shares how having anxiety impacts her parenting. She talks about her journey of personal growth and conscious parenting, and the difference it has made in parenting her son versus parenting her daughter 13 years later. Jennifer talks about how her culture of wellness and her spiritual practice both deeply impact her parenting. Jennifer talks about how connecting to the Divine Feminine is an important part of her relationship with her daughter. Jennifer talks about having trauma triggers during her kids' first 2 years of life, and not knowing why. In working with a therapist, she approached her dad about it and found out what happened in her first few years of life. She talks about how therapy, meditation, massages and lots of self-care practices help her heal and parent. If you want to come on the podcast and share your experiences of being a mom, send me (Laura Pruett) a message! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account.

Janai talks about growing up in a family of 6 kids, and loving it. She wanted a family like the one she grew up in, and planned for her 2 babies right after she and her husband were married. She talks about how her mom shaped the way she views motherhood and how she mothers now. She shares she had a really rough birth that required blood transfusions and a hard recovery, but also shares how much joy she has in being a mom to her daughter. She shares that her religion has helped give her purpose and guidance, and a road map for how to parent and teach her daughter about God and Jesus Christ. She found that having mom friends that have kids about the same age as her kid has been so helpful, a "game changer" for her. If you want to come on the podcast and share your experiences of being a mom, send me (Laura Pruett) a message! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account.

Gabby talks about not doubting her ability to parent, even though she was a young mom with her first child, and people told her to place her child for adoption. She talks about how having a child at a young age wasn't a mistake, none of her kids are a mistake. She also talks about the pressure she felt as a young mom. Gabby shares that having her kids helped her be more open minded about other people, instead of making snap judgments. She shares how her Mexican culture, but raising her kids in the U.S., affects her mothering. She shares that her religious journey includes a blend of Catholicism and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and how her spiritual journey affects her mothering. Gabby talks about the difference between being a single mom and being married now. She gushes about her husband, and it is adorable. If you want to come on the podcast and share your experiences of being a mom, send me (Laura Pruett) a message! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account.

Tiffany talks about being super stressed out after having her first child, to the point that she developed Bell's Palsy. She also had her gall bladder removed shortly after giving birth. She was anticipating more health challenges with her second child, and was surprised to find out her child was born with birth anomalies that require extra care and doctor visits. She shares she did not want to be pregnant with her third child, but those feelings went away once she gave birth. Tiffany talks about getting spiritual promptings when it was time to try for each child, and teaching her kids about God and Jesus Christ. She shares that not just tolerance, but acceptance and love for everyone, is a big part of her religious teaching with her kids. Tiffany talks about not feeling close cultural ties to her Filipino, Mexican and El Salvadorian heritage. She shares that her husband's Samoan culture plays a bigger role in her kids' lives. Tiffany talks about having a hard childhood growing up in poverty with her single mom and two siblings, and how her relationship with her mom affects how she mothers now. Tiffany talks about actively working against her instincts to discipline a certain way, and instead use gentle or positive guidance. Just a heads up, I mention suicidal ideation. If you are having suicidal thoughts, or any mental health issue, please reach out to someone. If you are in the United States, you can call the 24/7 National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP or 1-800-662-4357. If you want to come on the podcast and share your experiences of being a mom, send me (Laura Pruett) a message! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account.

Matti talks about having PCOS and thought for years that she was infertile. When she did become pregnant, she developed preeclampsia and needed to deliver her baby preterm at 25 weeks and 5 days gestation. Matti shares about her son being a micro baby in the NICU for months, and having 2 newborn stages: a newborn in the NICU and a newborn once he was discharged from the hospital. Matti talks about babywearing her son as a way to discourage others from touching him since he is a medically delicate child, and also talks about becoming more assertive. She shares a little of what it is like being a stay at home mom and feeling touched out. Matti talks about growing up as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and choosing to step away from the religion. She mentions gentle parenting and The Danish Way (you can find more information here). Some Instagram accounts Matti follows about gentle parenting are @BigLittleFeelings and @MrChazz. Matti also talks about having Postpartum Depression and encourages anyone who is experiencing similar issues to reach out to someone - your partner, your doctor, anyone in your support system. If you are experiencing mental health issues, please reach out to someone. If you are in the United States, you can call the 24/7 National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP or 1-800-662-4357. If you want to come on the podcast and share your experiences of being a mom, send me (Laura Pruett) a message! I'd love to chat. You can reach out to me on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account.

Brianna talked about her infertility struggles, some of her triggers, and the kindnesses people showed her and her husband. She talked about how having endometriosis, surgery, IUI, and IVF all led to her son. She shared that once she was pregnant, she was surprised by perinatal depression, but thankfully did not experience postpartum depression. If you are experiencing any mental health issues, please reach out to someone. If you are in the United States, you can call the 24/7 National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP or 1-800-662-4357. Brianna talked about mom-shaming, and feeling the pressure of never having a bad day as a mom after trying so hard to have a baby. She talked about being a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. She also shared how the American tendency to shame moms for breastfeeding affects her mothering. She talked about how being a nanny and working with kids for so long helped prepare her for motherhood. If you want to come on the podcast and share your experiences of being a mom, you can reach out to me, Laura Pruett, on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account.

Samantha talks about being the oldest of 8 children. She had a pretty good idea of what being a mom is like before she had her own kids, but was still surprised by different aspects being a mom. She talks about how she has a close relationship with her mom, and how her husband and her family are a huge support system for her. She shares openly about having post-partum depression and anxiety, and encourages others to seek help if they are having similar issues. I mention an episode of Death, Sex, and Money called, "Ellen Burstyn's Lessons on Survival", it was published on Oct 4, 2017. You can listen on any podcast platform, you can also find that specific episode here. She talks about being a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and being homeschooled for much of her education, and how both of those parts of her life affect her mothering today. If you want to come on the podcast and share your experiences of being a mom, you can reach out to me, Laura Pruett, on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account.

LiAna wasn't sure if she could have kids or not because of her family history. She had her first son, then a year later gave birth to twins without knowing she was pregnant till she gave birth to the first twin. It's too much to summarize, listen to find out more. LiAna talks about her IBS issues, and mentions she struggles with depression, anxiety and OCD. If you have any mental health issues, please reach out to someone. If you are in the United States, you can call the 24/7 National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP or 1-800-662-4357. LiAna talks about breastfeeding versus bottle feeding. She also shares how her faith and being a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints affects her mothering. LiAna talks about being of Hispanic descent and also half white. She talks about growing up in a 4 generation household, and now raising her kids in a 4 generation household. If you want to come on the podcast and share your experiences of being a mom, you can reach out to me, Laura Pruett, on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account.

Sara talks about knowing she wanted kids, then being surprised with how little control she had over her life and her kids once they were born. She talks about being a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, there is a lot of church jargon I explain at the beginning of the episode. Sara shares about homeschooling her kids till about middle school. She talks about trying to not let general culture get her focused on looking picture perfect or other things that don't really matter, and just trying to let her kids be who they're going to be. If you want to come on the podcast and share your experiences of being a mom, you can reach out to me, Laura Pruett, on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account.

Yesenia was told at the age of 16 she wouldn't be able to carry a child. Then at the age of 23, she unexpectedly found herself pregnant. She has been a single mom the entire time, but has been navigating how to co-parent with her child's father for the past 3 years. Yesenia talks about learning how to set boundaries with people in her life, and teaching her daughter how to set boundaries. She talks about being Hispanic, her first language was Spanish. Even though Yesenia's daughter doesn't speak Spanish, she can understand it and listens to all the gossip. Yesenia talks about her relationship with her mother, and how her mother passed away from cancer, and how that affects her mothering now. She talks about being a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. She talks about learning to open up and trust other people, but also learning to trust her instincts about what people to avoid. If you want to come on the podcast and share your experiences of being a mom, you can reach out to me, Laura Pruett, on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account.

Keri has been a single mom for most of her kids' lives, and she got a lot of help from her parents. Her mother recently passed away from Alzheimer's, and she and her kids are grieving the loss of such a significant person in their lives. Keri talks about the importance of sleep in being a single parent, and found sleep training to be super helpful for her to function. TRIGGER WARNING: Rape and suicidal thoughts are mentioned. The United States free 24/7 national sexual assault hotline is 800-656-HOPE or 800-656-4673. You can also chat on the RAINN mobile app. The United States national mental health helpline is 1-800-662-HELP or 1-800-662-4357. Keri talks a lot about how being a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints affects her mothering. Keri talks about how the childbirth and the newborn phase was not that big of a deal for her, she has found that the pre-teen and teen stages are harder for her. Keri also talks about how motherhood is a process for the mother, just wading in little by little. If you want to come on the podcast and share your experiences of being a mom, you can reach out to me, Laura Pruett, on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account.

Sheyla talks about getting giving birth to her first child at age of 17, and all that came with being a young mom. She shares she is pregnant with her second child now at the age of 26, and she compares the difference to having a supportive partner this time around. This pregnancy was considered a high risk pregnancy till she was 20 weeks along because of subchorionic hemorrhage, a blood clot in her uterus. She is no longer considered high risk, she and her baby girl are now fine. Sheyla talks about her worries about having a girl after getting used to raising a boy. She discusses how she is spiritual, but not religious, but her son is Catholic. Sheyla shares how being half Mexican and half Guatemalan affects her mothering. She also talks about finding her boundaries in being a good mom but also taking care of herself. I mention an episode of Death, Sex, and Money called, "Ellen Burstyn's Lessons on Survival", it was published on Oct 4, 2017. You can listen on any podcast platform, you can also find that specific episode here. Sheyla touches on the abuse she experienced as a child, and getting kicked out of the house when she got pregnant with her first child. She talks about seeking out therapy and mental health help, even with the cultural stigma against seeking out help. If you are experiencing any mental health struggle, please reach out to someone. If you are in the United States, you can call the 24/7 National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP or 1-800-662-4357. If you have any thoughts or questions, or if you want to come on the podcast and share your experiences of being a mom, you can reach out to me, Laura Pruett, on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account. Edit: I reference The StoryTinker podcast, hosted by Mindy Schaper, which is how Sheyla and I met, you can check it out here or on any podcast platform. Sheyla, Mindy and I met through our shared love of the webcomic Midnight Poppy Land, created by Lilydusk. You can read it on Webtoon here or on the free Webtoon app.

Ginny talks about how she was a single working mom after divorcing her first husband, and got by with the help of her family and friends. She married her 2nd husband after they dated for 5ish years, and they are still happily married to this day. Her 2nd husband adopted Ginny's 2 kids and they had a 3rd child together. Ginny talks about how she converted religions from Catholic to The church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Ginny talks about growing up on a farm in North Dakota with her parents and 4 sisters. Her family all eventually moved from North Dakota to Arizona. Ginny shares that pretty much all her family is still in Arizona: her sisters, her children, most of her grandchildren and her 2 great-grandchildren, and she is close with all of them. If you have any thoughts or questions, or if you want to come on the podcast and share your experiences of being a mom, you can reach out to me, Laura Pruett, on the Laura Asks About Motherhood Facebook page or Instagram account.