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Naming your baby is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make in the early years as a parent (and one of the most emotional). Some people have names picked out since childhood. Others scroll baby name lists for hours, feeling totally overwhelmed because they haven't found "the right one." And once you add in opinions from your partner, your in-laws, and your fourth cousin twice removed… it’s a lot. That’s why we’re so excited to share this week’s episode of Chick Chat, where we’re talking all things baby names with professional baby name consultant (yes, that’s a real thing!) Colleen Slagen, founder of Naming Bebe. Colleen is a former nurse practitioner turned viral baby-naming expert whose work has been featured on NPR, Today, The Washington Post, and ABC News. With a unique blend of research, psychology, and creativity, she helps parents find names they genuinely love — names that feel meaningful, stylish, and totally “them.” Whether you're naming your first baby or trying to match a sibling set without sounding cheesy, Colleen’s insights will help you feel way less stressed and way more confident. In this episode, we cover: What a baby name consultant actually does (and why it’s not just for celebrities) How to start the name search when nothing feels right What to do when you and your partner can't agree on a name Naming siblings without being too matchy-matchy How to pick a name that grows with your child Baby name "drama" — like when someone steals your favorite name Tips for handling family pressure or traditions The top baby name trends of the moment Common naming regrets (and how to avoid them!) If you’re in the middle of name-storming (or just love talking about baby names as much as we do), this episode is such a fun listen. Colleen’s advice is practical, thoughtful, and filled with ideas to help you pick a name that you’ll love and be proud of for years to come. And don’t forget to follow Colleen at @namingbebe, visit namingbebe.com for naming services and inspiration, and check out our SHOW NOTES for more details about the episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Starting solids is a major milestone, but it can also be one of the most confusing times for new parents. When should you start? What foods are best? And how do you keep things safe and enjoyable? In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Krupa Playforth, board-certified pediatrician and founder of Warm Heart Pediatrics, known online as @thepediatricianmom. With her signature blend of clinical expertise and relatable, real-mom advice, Dr. Playforth breaks down everything you need to know about introducing solids, whether you’re going the puree route, trying baby-led feeding, or somewhere in between. We cover: Signs your baby is ready for solids How to reduce choking risks The biggest myths about baby-led feeding Creating positive mealtime experiences Easy, nutrient-rich foods to start with Tips to prevent picky eating from day one If you’ve been feeling nervous or unsure about starting solids with your baby, this episode will leave you feeling informed, supported, and ready to move forward with confidence. Listen now & check out more at our SHOW NOTES! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Think big feelings are just for toddlers? Think again. In this episode, emotional development expert Alyssa Blask Campbell joins me to explore how to raise emotionally intelligent and connected kids, especially during the often-overlooked elementary years. Together, they dive into: Why big kids still have big feelings (and what to do about it) Nervous system regulation and how it impacts behavior Signs of dysregulation in parents and children Alyssa’s F.A.C.T.S. acronym for staying calm in hard moments The 5-step CEP Method to support emotion processing Simple mindset shifts that help you connect instead of react Whether your child is dealing with defiance, anxiety, or meltdowns, or you’re just feeling overwhelmed, this conversation offers tools, compassion, and clarity for the emotional ride of parenting. Learn more about Alyssa’s work at seedandsew.org and follow her on Instagram at @seed.and.sew. For all the SHOW NOTES, go to: https://www.baby-chick.com/big-kids-bigger-feelings-podcast/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Grief in motherhood isn’t always about the loss of a loved one. Sometimes it’s the quiet ache of losing parts of yourself... the identity you once had, the dreams you imagined, or the version of motherhood you thought you’d live. In this powerful episode, I sit down with Mel Parent, nurse practitioner, fitness instructor, and founder of The Hive Method, to talk about the hidden grief many mothers carry and how it affects our minds, our bodies, and our ability to show up in daily life. After losing her own mother, Mel brings a deeply personal perspective to this conversation and offers science-backed, heart-forward guidance on moving from survival mode to feeling fully alive again. We’re unpacking: The different types of grief in motherhood (and why it’s more common than you think) How unprocessed emotions can show up as physical symptoms and burnout The duality of grief — holding space for both joy and pain How movement and nervous system support can be powerful tools for healing Small, sustainable shifts that help you feel grounded, strong, and like yourself again Whether you’re deep in a hard season or walking alongside someone who is, this episode will remind you: you are not broken, you are not alone, and healing is possible. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is sponsored by Naturepedic. Today, we’re pulling back the curtain on the baby product industry, and trust me, it gets messy. From hidden toxins in crib mattresses to the rise of greenwashing and misleading “eco-friendly” labels, parents are navigating a world that’s more confusing than ever. To help us make sense of it all, Naturepedic’s Chief Growth Officer, Arin Schultz, is joining me for a real‑talk conversation about what’s actually in the products our babies sleep on, roll on, and breathe in every day. Arin is a dad of four boys, a brilliant (and hilarious) industry insider, and one of my favorite guests to learn from when it comes to organic products. We’re covering: The “dirty truth” about conventional baby products Which certifications actually matter — and which mean nothing Why crib mattresses are a HUGE deal for your baby’s health How to avoid greenwashing What parents on a budget should prioritize Rapid-fire myth busting (prepare to be shocked!) What Arin wishes every parent knew before walking into a baby store If you’ve ever wondered: “What should I really be looking for when shopping for my baby?” — this episode is your new go‑to guide. Special savings for our listeners! Get 20% off Naturepedic baby and kids products at Naturepedic.com with our exclusive code BABYCHICK20. Tune in, learn something new, and feel more empowered in the choices you make for your family! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if your uterus could speak—what would it say? In this episode of Chick Chat: The Baby Chick Podcast, Nina sits down with Dr. Krystal Lynn Couture—licensed acupuncturist, Doctor of Physical Therapy, and founder of The Pelvic Acu—to explore the powerful energetic and emotional connection between the heart and the womb. Dr. Krystal shares how acupuncture and holistic pelvic care can help restore flow, support fertility, ease painful periods, and release trauma stored in the pelvic bowl. She also explains what it means when your heart-uterus connection is out of sync—and how healing this pathway can transform your emotional and physical well-being. In this episode, you’ll learn: What the “heart-womb channel” is—and why it matters How emotional stress affects pelvic health What signs may indicate this connection is blocked At-home practices to reconnect with your womb space How acupuncture supports hormones, flow, and fertility This conversation is a must-listen for anyone craving a deeper connection to their body, their cycle, or their healing journey. Learn more at thepelvicacu.com and follow Dr. Krystal on Instagram @thepelvicacu Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the support you need during pregnancy and postpartum is already available... You just haven’t been shown how to access it?! In this episode of Chick Chat, Nina sits down with Pachet Bryant, Founder of MINE Maternity and Pregnancy/Postpartum Care Coordinator, to explore how families can actually afford the care they need and deserve. From insurance benefits and HSA/FSA funds to employer perks and nonprofit programs, this conversation breaks down the exact tools that can help you plan ahead, reduce financial stress, and receive more comprehensive support during this transformative time. You’ll learn: 💡 How to decode your insurance benefits and what to ask 💡 The real difference between FSA and HSA (and how to use them for maternity and postpartum care) 💡 What to do if your preferred provider or support isn’t covered 💡 Why financial planning for your care is just as important as baby prep Whether you’re trying to conceive, expecting your first baby, or already in the postpartum phase, this episode will leave you feeling informed, empowered, and ready to make the most of your benefits. 👉 Connect with Pachet at minematernity.com or on Instagram @minematernity or YouTube @MINEmaternity Subscribe & listen now wherever you get your podcasts! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Motherhood changes us — and not just in the ways we expect. For many women, having a child prompts a deep reevaluation of priorities, identity, and ambition. It’s not that ambition disappears; it evolves into something new. And in a world that often pushes women to choose between work and family, this shift can often leave new mothers feeling confused, lonely, or even disempowered. But what if pausing your career to focus on family wasn’t a setback, but a powerful, intentional move that reshapes your life and strengthens your future? That’s exactly what today’s guest, Neha Ruch, wants us to see. In this episode of Chick Chat, I sat down with Neha to talk about how we can reframe motherhood, ambition, and success, especially for women navigating the “gray area” between caregiving and career. Who Is Neha Ruch? Neha Ruch is a thought leader, author, and speaker on women, identity, and work. After a decade in brand strategy and earning her MBA from Stanford, she chose to pause her career following the birth of her second child and quickly realized how outdated the conversation around stay-at-home motherhood still was. She launched Mother Untitled, now rebranded as The Power Pause, a movement and platform that supports modern women who are embracing career pauses or slowdowns as a strategic, meaningful chapter in their lives. She created a space for ambitious women who are pressing pause, not delete on their careers. Her work has sparked a cultural shift around caregiving, ambition, and redefining success in the parenting years, resonating with hundreds of thousands of women. Her debut book, The Power Pause: How to Plan a Career Break After Kids – and Come Back Stronger Than Ever, is a first-of-its-kind guide that reimagines this chapter as one filled with purpose, growth, and long-term opportunity. Final Thoughts If you’ve ever questioned your worth during a season of slowing down or wondered how to hold onto your ambition while being present for your family, this episode is for you. Neha Ruch is rewriting the script around what it means to be a mother, a professional, and a whole person. Her work gives voice to a growing movement of women who are choosing to press pause and reminding us all that there is power in every chapter. Neha's Resources Website: thepowerpause.com Instagram: @motheruntitled LinkedIn: @nehaleelaruch Mentioned in the episode: Motherclasses with Mom Cozy Flex Jobs board The Mom Project Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Going back to work after having a baby isn’t just about finding childcare or picking out comfortable outfits in your new postpartum body. It’s an emotional, physical, and often overwhelming transition that touches everything from your identity and energy levels to your legal rights and workplace support. In episode 179 of Chick Chat, we talked with Daphne Delvaux, also known as The Mamattorney, about how to co-plan your maternity leave so your return to work feels smoother and less stressful. If you haven’t listened to that one yet, definitely go check it out! In today’s episode (part two of our conversation), we’re diving into what happens after baby: how to navigate the return-to-work phase with confidence and legal protection. Daphne shares what every mom should know before reentering the workplace and how to advocate for yourself if the support just isn’t there. Who Is Daphne Delvaux? If you missed part one, Daphne Delvaux is a trial attorney, legal expert, and founder of The Mamattorney, a platform dedicated to educating mothers about their legal rights in the workplace, especially during pregnancy, postpartum, and maternity leave. Daphne’s work has helped thousands of women feel more empowered and informed about their options for taking leave, protecting their jobs, and advocating for their families and futures. As a mom herself, she deeply understands the real-life challenges working parents face. What We Talked About This episode is all about the next chapter. What happens when you’ve had your baby, your leave is ending, and it’s time to return to work? Daphne covers each and shares legal protections, emotional prep tips, and powerful mindset shifts to help moms navigate this transition with more ease and less guilt. Here are a few highlights from our conversation: How to prepare emotionally for going back to work Leaving your baby for the first time can be heartbreaking. Daphne shares ways to prepare mentally and emotionally so you’re not caught off guard and so you can create space for your own healing, too. The biggest challenges new parents face and how to overcome them From lack of flexibility to outdated expectations, the return to work can be filled with pressure. Daphne talks through practical ways to set boundaries, ask for support, and reset your expectations of yourself. Your legal rights during the return-to-work transition Did you know you're entitled to certain accommodations for pumping? Daphne outlines the federal protections you have, including the PUMP Act, so you know exactly what to expect—and demand—from your workplace. What to do if you face discrimination or lack of support Unfortunately, not every workplace gets it. If you’re met with resistance, Daphne explains the steps to take—from documenting everything to filing a complaint—and why it’s important to advocate not just for yourself, but for other moms, too. The most overlooked part of preparing for maternity leave and return Most moms focus on the time off, but forget to plan for the return. Daphne shares the #1 thing moms forget to do (and how it can change everything). One proactive step you can take today Daphne closes with one action step that any woman can take right now to ensure a smoother, more empowered transition back to work. Final Thoughts Returning to work after having a baby is hard. But with the right tools, the right mindset, and the right knowledge of your rights, it doesn’t have to break you. Daphne Delvaux’s work is a powerful reminder that you’re not just a working mom, you’re a protected, empowered parent who deserves support. Whether you’re navigating legal concerns, emotional struggles, or both, this episode will help you return to work on your terms with your confidence and boundaries intact. Again, if you missed our first episode with Daphne (episode 179), where we talked all about co-planning your maternity leave, go listen to that one too. It’s the perfect companion to this conversation! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When we think about preparing for a new baby, most of the attention goes to labor and delivery, but what about what happens after the birth? Too often, parents are sent home with a newborn and very little support for their physical recovery, mental health, and emotional well-being. And when things feel overwhelming, scary, or not how they expected, they wonder if something is wrong with them. But what I want new mothers to know is: Nothing is wrong with you. However, something is missing from the way we prepare families for postpartum, and it’s time we talked about it. In this episode of Chick Chat, I sat down with Nancy Di Nuzzo, Founder of Anamav Postnatal Care, to talk about the reality of postpartum recovery, Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs), and what it truly looks like to feel supported during one of life’s most intense transitions. Who Is Nancy Di Nuzzo? Nancy Di Nuzzo is a Postpartum Doula, New Parent Educator, Perinatal Mental Health Specialist, and CPA. Yes, you read that right! She went from working in finance to becoming a fierce advocate for families after living through her own traumatic postpartum experience. Now a mother of two, Nancy is the founder of Anamav Postnatal Care, a practice dedicated to supporting families with doula care, lactation support, therapy, sleep coaching, and more, both virtually and in-home. She brings not only her professional expertise, but also deep empathy and lived experience to every conversation. Her mission? To help close the huge gap in postpartum care and make sure no parent feels like they have to “just get through it” on their own. What We Talked About This episode is an essential listen for any new parent, whether you’re expecting your first baby or already in the thick of postpartum life. Nancy breaks down what many people wish they had known before giving birth, and shares practical tools for building a more supported, emotionally safe experience. Postpartum doesn’t have to be something you just survive. With the right planning, the right tools, and the right support, it can be a season of healing, bonding, and growth. But it starts with knowing you deserve support — not just your baby. Nancy’s insight is such a powerful reminder that your mental health matters. Your story matters. And how you feel in this season matters. If you’re a new or expecting parent, I hope this conversation helps you feel seen, validated, and encouraged to build a postpartum experience rooted in real care. Mentioned in the episode Patient & Family Guide to PMADs Postpartum Support International (PSI) Nancy's Resources Website: anamav.ca Instagram: @anamavpostnatal Facebook: @anamavpostnatal TikTok: @anamavpostnatal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Parenting a strong-willed child can feel a little like riding a roller coaster . . . with no seatbelt. One minute, your child is full of passion and happiness, the next, they’re melting down in the middle of Target. These extreme emotions leave you wondering: Is this just a phase? Is it ADHD? Are they emotional? Or are they just being . . . mean? If you’ve ever asked yourself any of those questions, you are definitely not alone. In this episode of Chick Chat, I sat down with parenting coach and Positive-Discipline expert Danielle Bettmann to unpack what’s really going on beneath those big behaviors. Danielle shares the mindset shifts and practical tools that help parents stop reacting and start truly connecting with their kids, especially strong-willed, deeply feeling kids who are just trying to be seen and understood. Who Is Danielle Bettmann? Danielle Bettmann is a Positive-Discipline certified parenting coach who helps parents truly crack the code of their strong-willed child’s personality. With a background as an early childhood educator, certified teacher, and home visitor, Danielle now supports families virtually from all over the country. Her approach? It’s all about getting to the root of behavior (meeting our kids’ deepest needs) so we can stop playing “whack-a-mole” with outbursts and instead create real connection and cooperation. She teaches parents how to be kind and firm at the same time, and trust me . . . it’s a game-changer. Danielle is also the host of the popular podcast Failing Motherhood, which is such a powerful resource for parents feeling overwhelmed or uncertain. She is on a mission to remove shame from parenting and remind us all that we are the parent our kids need. What We Talked About This conversation is packed with wisdom and real-life strategies that speak to the heart of modern parenting, especially if you’re navigating big feelings, frequent meltdowns, or kiddos who don’t respond well to traditional discipline methods. Here are a few key takeaways from our conversation: 1. What a “strong-willed child” really means 2. Is it ADHD, big emotions, or just being difficult? 3. Why behavior is communication 4. The trap of traditional discipline 5. What it looks like to be kind and firm at the same time 6. Getting to the root of behavior 7. One small mindset shift that helps today Final Thoughts If you’re raising a child who challenges you daily, we want you to know that you’re not failing. You’re just parenting a strong-willed kid, and you can absolutely lead them with both heart and structure. Danielle’s work is such a breath of fresh air, and this episode will leave you with so much guidance and support. With the right tools and mindset, even the toughest parenting moments can become opportunities for growth, healing, and closeness. And as Danielle says: you are the parent your child needs. Mentioned in the episode Mighty and Bright calendars Danielle's Resources Website: parentingwholeheartedly.com Instagram: @parent_wholeheartedly Facebook: @wholeheartedlyomaha Podcast: Failing Motherhood FREE Masterclass Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let’s be real . . . Motherhood is overwhelming for anyone. But I've recently learned that if you’re a mom with ADHD, sometimes even the most basic tasks — like folding laundry, starting dinner, or replying to one more school email — can feel paralyzing. And I just have to say, if this is you . . . you’re not lazy. You’re not failing. And you’re definitely not alone. In this episode of Chick Chat, I sat down with Amy Marie Hann, a mom, coach, and author of the upcoming book Master the Mundane, to talk about what it really looks like to manage motherhood, home, and family life with ADHD. Whether you’ve been diagnosed or you’ve just always felt a step behind when it comes to organizing, planning, or staying on top of everything, this episode will leave you feeling seen, understood, and empowered. Who Is Amy Marie Hann? Amy Marie Hann is a certified coach, author, and mom of three who brings a deeply personal lens to everything she teaches. Diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 5, she’s navigated life, motherhood, marriage, and even homeschooling through the lens of neurodivergence. Not only is she ADHD herself, but so are her kids, husband, dad, and sister, making her insights incredibly relatable that resonates with so many moms feeling overwhelmed by the day-to-day. Amy is the author of the soon-to-be-released book Master the Mundane: How to Manage Your Life, Home, and Family as a Mom with ADHD, launching September 10th. In her book, she combines lived experience with practical tools to help moms get through the hardest part of motherhood: the day-to-day chaos. She’s known for her authenticity, humor, and compassionate approach to coaching women who are neurodivergent or simply burned out. What We Talked About This episode is full of validation and practical advice for moms who struggle with executive function, mental overload, and burnout, whether officially diagnosed with ADHD or not. Amy breaks down what’s actually happening in the ADHD brain and how ADHD moms can stop beating themselves up for not being able to “just do it.” Here are some of the key topics we explored together: The moment motherhood collided with her ADHD Why simple tasks feel so hard What “Master the Mundane” really means How to stop relying on systems that weren’t built for your brain Tips for tackling executive dysfunction What emotional support for ADHD moms should look like Getting diagnosed (or not) And one of my favorite parts? When Amy reminded us that the best thing we can do for our ADHD kids is to model what it looks like to thrive with ADHD ourselves. Final Thoughts Whether you’re managing ADHD, burnout, or just the day-to-day stress of motherhood, this episode is here to remind you: you are not broken — you just need better tools and support. Amy’s wisdom is a breath of fresh air for any mom who’s ever felt like the mundane parts of life were swallowing her whole. With compassion, humor, and zero judgment, she gives us permission to do things our own way and shows us that thriving doesn’t mean doing everything. It means building systems that support you! Mentioned in the episode Is It ADHD or Not? (Diagnostic Criteria) Vanderbilt Assessment Psychology Today - Search adhd, your area, and your insurance (pulls up psychologist providers available to you) Amy's Resources Book: Master the Mundane: How to Manage Your Life, Home, and Family as a Mom with ADHD Website: amymariehann.com Instagram: @amymariehann Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As we all know, motherhood changes everything. And this can even include how we see ourselves when we look in the mirror. Between sleep deprivation, postpartum recovery, body changes, and keeping tiny humans alive, getting dressed for the day can feel like just one more thing on our endless to-do list that many of us usually don't have the energy to put much thought into. Because we're exhausted, we just grab the best, cleanest thing that fits and works for what we need for the day. It may seem small and silly, but choosing how you present yourself to the world can actually make a bigger impact than you think. And what if this daily decision could be something that lifts you up instead of weighing you down? In this episode of Chick Chat, I sat down with my friend Sarah Villarreal, a certified Style Coach and personal stylist who helps modern moms reclaim their confidence through style. As a mom of two herself, Sarah deeply understands the identity shift that happens in motherhood and how what we wear can be a powerful way to reconnect with ourselves during that transition. Who Is Sarah Villarreal? Sarah Villarreal is a certified Style Coach® and personal stylist dedicated to helping modern moms rediscover their confidence through style. A former fashion designer and a mom of two, Sarah understands firsthand how clothing tells a powerful story about who we are, especially during the identity-shifting years of motherhood. With a degree from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, she’s designed apparel for some of the industry’s top brands and worked in technical design for handbags. Her career has taken her from styling clients on Rodeo Drive to navigating the raw, real seasons of postpartum life, giving her a unique perspective on the connection between fashion and self-care. Over the years, she became the go-to resource for friends and family who needed help with their wardrobes, whether for family photos, vacations, or just finding that perfect everyday look. Her time as a stay-at-home mom reinforced a powerful truth: investing in yourself — how you feel, how you show up — positively impacts every area of life. While fashion has always been her passion, Sarah knows that style can feel overwhelming or out of reach for many women. She’s been there, too. Now, she’s on a mission to show moms that prioritizing themselves isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. What We Talked AboutThis conversation was such a fun and refreshing take on style, self-care, and identity in motherhood. Sarah and I chatted about the deep connection between what we wear and how we feel, especially during the tender postpartum years and beyond. Here are a few highlights from our conversation: Why style matters (especially for moms). Why investing in your wardrobe isn’t selfish. What to do when nothing fits or feels right. Her go-to “mom outfit formulas” that are cute and functional. How to navigate style challenges and body image changes. How to use style to reclaim confidence. Final Thoughts Motherhood doesn’t mean losing yourself. And it definitely doesn’t mean you have to settle for a wardrobe that no longer reflects the amazing woman you are. With a few thoughtful choices and some encouragement, you can slowly build a closet (and a confidence) that supports your real, beautiful, ever-evolving life. To learn more about Sarah’s work or to book a session with her, you can find her at sarahvillarrealstyling.com and on Instagram @styledbysarahvillarreal. Be sure to use our exclusive code CHICKCHAT for 10% off her services! Cheers to feeling your best and showing up with confidence! Mentioned in the episode Podcast episode with Shakaila Forbes-Bell, MA Sarah's Style Personality Quiz Sarah Villarreal's Resources Website: sarahvillarrealstyling.com Instagram: @sarah.villarreal.styling Pinterest: @sarahvillarrealstyling Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Family isn’t one-size-fits-all. And neither is the journey to building one. In today’s episode of Chick Chat, we’re diving into a conversation that challenges traditional ideas of family and motherhood. Whether you’re a new parent, dreaming of parenthood, or simply curious about your own path, this episode will inspire you to embrace possibility and self-discovery. So many of us grow up with certain expectations about what “family” should look like. But what if you could design a family that truly reflects your values, dreams, and lifestyle? That’s exactly what today’s guest, Dr. Gertrude Lyons, empowers people to do. Through her work, she invites us to explore our deepest desires around family-building, challenge societal norms, and step into motherhood — or the essence of mothering — in an intentional, fulfilling way. Who is Dr. Gertrude Lyons? Dr. Gertrude Lyons is the visionary behind Rewrite The Mother Code, a groundbreaking approach to personal transformation and family creation. With over 20 years of experience in coaching, women’s development, and holistic parenting, she combines her Doctorate in Education and Master’s in Psychology to help individuals and families live more authentically. Her mission is to help people tap into the essence of “mothering” as a creative, nurturing energy that transcends biology, empowering them to lead more intentional, joyful lives. What We Discussed in This Episode In our conversation, Dr. Gertrude introduces the concept of being “Mother-Curious” — an invitation to explore what family means to you, free from societal pressure or traditional timelines. She shares why so many people struggle to create the family they truly want and the myths that can hold them back. We talk about her personal journey to motherhood, how support systems can make or break your family-building experience, and what to do if fear of judgment is stopping you from living your truth. Plus, she gives practical first steps for anyone ready to explore their Mother-Curious path and create a family that feels aligned with their heart. Final Thoughts This episode is a reminder that your journey to family, whatever it looks like, is valid, worthy, and entirely your own. By embracing curiosity, breaking free from old narratives, and building strong support systems, you can open the door to a family life that truly fulfills you. Dr. Gertrude's Resources Website: drgertrudelyons.com Instagram: @drgertrudelyons YouTube: @rewritethemothercode LinkedIn: @gertrudelyons Pinterest: @drgertrudelyons Podcast: Rewrite The Mother Code - My episode on her podcast! Book: Rewrite the Mother Code: From Sacrifice to Stardust - A Cosmic Approach to Motherhood Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Movement is one of the most powerful ways babies learn about their bodies, their environment, and even their emotions. But in today’s world of baby gear, screen time, and jam-packed schedules, purposeful movement often takes a backseat. That’s why today’s episode is all about why movement matters and how to support your baby’s physical development with simple, intentional activities and play. To help us explore this topic, I’m joined by Dr. Allison Mell, pediatric physical therapist, founder of Tots on Target, and mom of four. Who is Dr. Allison Mell? Dr. Allison Mell is a pediatric physical therapist with over 15 years of clinical experience. She is the founder of Tots on Target, an online platform designed to help parents understand and support their child’s gross motor development from birth through toddlerhood. Through her expert courses, resources, and social media education, Dr. Allison is on a mission to make developmental support accessible, practical, and empowering. It's evident that she is passionate about helping parents understand their child’s developmental milestones without feeling overwhelmed or guilty. Through her work, you'll find that she teaches families how to turn everyday moments into powerful opportunities for growth, whether your baby is learning to roll, crawl, walk, or just explore the world around them. She lives in New Jersey with her husband and four children. What Did We Discuss? n this episode, Dr. Allison and I chick-chat about the biggest movement milestones in the first few years of life and what parents can do to support their child’s gross motor development confidently. We discuss: What typical motor milestones look like in babies and toddlers Why “containers” (like swings and bouncers) may delay movement skills When to be concerned if a child isn’t reaching a milestone on time How sensory processing and emotional regulation are linked to movement Easy, fun, and budget-friendly ways to promote healthy motor development What kind of play actually helps build physical skills, and what to skip Why movement is about more than muscles: it’s about confidence, too When and how to seek physical therapy support if needed Dr. Allison also shares her story of building Tots on Target and what inspired her to bring expert-backed, judgment-free guidance to more families, especially those who feel stuck between “just wait and see” and “you need therapy.” Final Thoughts Whether you’re cheering on your baby’s first roll or chasing after a curious toddler, this episode is a reminder that every wiggle, reach, and stumble matters. Movement isn’t just about milestones; it’s about building confidence, resilience, and connection from the very beginning. With the right support and simple, purposeful play, you can help your child thrive in ways that last a lifetime! Dr. Allison's Resources Website: totsontarget.com Facebook: @TotsonTarget Instagram: @totsontarget Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices