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We are back!!! In this week’s podcast episode, we’re sharing a 2026 update and re-release of a conversation originally recorded in 2020, in the spirit of Valentine’s Day. We’re joined by maternal mental health therapist Natalie Reiter for an honest and compassionate discussion about sex and intimacy after the NICU and birth trauma. Natalie explores how trauma impacts our nervous systems, why intimacy and sex are not the same thing, and how fear, pressure, and survival mode can affect connection after the NICU. Together, we talk about rebuilding intimacy, navigating mismatched desire, fear of pregnancy after trauma, and the emotional and physical changes that can shape sex after birth. As you listen, we hope you feel seen and validated, especially during a season when expectations around love and intimacy can feel tender. Healing is not linear, connection can be rebuilt, and you are never alone in this sisterhood, NICU mama. Natalie specializes in reproductive mental health which includes peri-natal, post-partum, infertility, infant loss, paternal mental health, and the impact on couples. She has received specialized training in perinatal and post-partum mental health from Postpartum Support International, and was recently selected as the 2019 Outstanding Mental Health Counselor by the North Dakota Mental Health Counseling Association for my work with reproductive mental health. Her work as a child birth educator and her two children have sparked her passion of working with reproductive mental health! To get connected with Prairieland Counseling: Website This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment. To get connected with DNM: Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram Support the show

In this week’s episode, Ashley and Aisha sit down for a cozy end-of-year conversation to close out the 2025 podcast season. Together, they reflect on the stories, experts, and full-circle moments that shaped this year’s episodes, and share how the Dear NICU Mama sisterhood continues to impact their own healing journeys. They also introduce something brand new to the community: our Right On Time Holiday Book Drive. After receiving more than 130 nominations from NICU moms across the country, six hospitals were selected to receive donated copies of Right On Time. This is a meaningful way for NICU families to give back to the places that cared for their babies so well! During the episode, Ashley and Aisha walk through how the book drive works, why it matters, and how every donation helps sustain the mission of Dear NICU Mama—from this podcast, to our support groups, to the resources that meet NICU moms right where they are. $25 donates one book, and listeners can choose to gift a book to a specific selected NICU or to the general campaign. As we wrap up another year of stories and connection, we hope this conversation reminds you that you are not alone. Thank you, mamas, for being part of this sisterhood. We can’t wait to be back in 2026 with more stories of hope! To donate to the Holiday Book Drive, head to: https://givebutter.com/dnmholidaybookdrive To get connected with DNM: Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram Support the show

In this week’s episode, Ashley and Aisha sit down with two very special guests: Allie, a PA who cared for Ashley’s son during his NICU stay, and her husband, Troy—the illustrator of Right On Time, Dear NICU Mama’s first children’s board book. Together they share the full-circle story of how their NICU connection led to creating a book that honors and represents the diverse journeys of NICU families! Ali reflects on her years in the NICU and her work in pediatric rehab, and Troy shares what it was like to illustrate a project so close to his family’s heart. You’ll also hear exciting updates on the book’s arrival, our successful pre-order campaign, and the upcoming Holiday Book Drive.  We hope this episode reminds you of the power of connection, storytelling, and the extraordinary milestones our NICU babies achieve, each one right on time. Order the Right On Time book here! To get connected with DNM: Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram Connect with Troy: Website | Instagram | X | Email: [email protected]  About Troy: It starts in New York Mills, MN where Troy was born and raised. After an affinity for drawing, comics and art - he graduated from Concordia College in Moorhead, MN with a B.A. in Art and Communications. After a few stints in Minneapolis, Connecticut and Wisconsin he found himself back in the F-M area. Troy has been an illustrator, cartoonist and graphic artist for Forum Communications for nearly 18 years. Troy also served as an adjunct professor at MSUM from 2015-2020. The art continues in his home studio where he enjoys creating screen prints, comics and graphic novels. You can find his art in local exhibits and commissions across the upper Midwest. Support the show

On this week’s episode, we welcome Dr. KC from Milestones & Motherhood — a pediatric physical therapist, early intervention specialist, and trusted guide for parents navigating developmental milestones. KC shares her own experience with late-preterm babies and how it shaped the compassionate, parent-centered approach she brings to her work. We talk about what early intervention really is, why adjusted age matters, how to navigate comparison, and the power of celebrating the “mini-stones” along the way. KC offers gentle reassurance for NICU parents navigating developmental milestones post NICU. Most of all, she reminds every parent listening that you are doing enough. Your presence and love matter, and it’s okay to take breaks, enjoy your baby, and lean on the support around you. You’re not alone in this journey! Use code DNM10 for 10% off all courses at Milestones & Motherhood! Head here to find the courses. Resources: 1. The Milestones & Motherhood Ministones Guide 2. Prematurity, NICU Stays & A Heart to Heart on Our Journey Dr. KC Rickerd, PT, DPT, is a licensed pediatric physical therapist and founder of Milestones & Motherhood and Journey Through Milestones Physical Therapy. With over a decade of experience working with children from birth through age 21, she specializes in motor development, functional mobility and family education. KC’s mission is to make evidence-based developmental guidance accessible, empowering parents and caregivers to confidently support their child’s growth and reach their full potential. Connect with KC: Instagram | Website Pre-order Right On Time, our very first children’s board book, here! To get connected with DNM: Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment. Support the show

In this week’s podcast episode, Ashley and Aisha sit down with Dear NICU Mama co-founder Martha for a vulnerable and joy-filled conversation about the early days of the sisterhood and how it all began! From the first coffee date and color-coded binder to the launch of the podcast and the years of growth that followed, Ashley and Martha reflect on what it was like to build something so meaningful together. They share openly about the pivots, challenges, and sacred moments that shaped Dear NICU Mama, from its local beginnings in Fargo to the national community it is today. Through laughter, nostalgia, and a few tears, they revisit the “Right On Time” moments that reminded them that even in the hardest seasons, healing and connection always unfold exactly when they’re meant to. As you listen to this episode, may you be reminded that your own story, your milestones, your friendships, and your healing are all unfolding right on time! Pre-order Right On Time, our very first children’s board book, here! To get connected with DNM: Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram Support the show

In this week’s podcast episode, Ashley and Aisha sit down with their husbands, Ryan and Andy, for an intentional conversation about their experiences as NICU dads! Ryan and Andy share vulnerably about the moments that shaped their journeys, from emergency deliveries and hospital stays to navigating grief, helplessness, and healing years later. They reflect on what it was like to support their partners through trauma, learn to surrender control, and find small ways to show up when so much felt out of their hands. Together, they remind us that the NICU journey isn’t only lived by moms, and that every dad, partner, and support person plays an irreplaceable role in this story. This episode is a beautiful reminder that even when it feels like you can’t fix or control what’s happening, your presence matters more than you know. Pre-order Right On Time, our very first children’s board book, here! To get connected with DNM: Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram Support the show

In this week’s podcast episode, Ashley and Aisha sit down with NICU mamas Vilma and Sam for a vulnerable roundtable conversation about feeding journeys after the NICU, and what it’s like when a G-tube becomes part of your story. They share vulnerably about the emotions that come with this transition, from the relief of finally going home, to the surrender that often follows. Together, they share about the realities of adjusting expectations, redefining milestones, and learning that every feeding journey looks different–and that’s okay. This conversation is a reminder that whether your child eats by mouth, by tube, or both, you are doing an incredible job. Your baby’s journey is unique, and no matter what that timeline looks like, it’s is always right on time. Pre-order Right On Time, our very first children’s board book, here! This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment. To get connected with DNM: Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram Support the show

In this week’s podcast episode, we share the audio from our recent Walking Letter of Hope Day virtual event featuring licensed therapist and birth trauma survivor Kayleigh Summers, known as The Birth Trauma Mama! Kayleigh joins us to talk about the lasting impact of birth and NICU trauma, what healing can look like, and the hope that comes from sharing our stories in community. She offers gentle, trauma-informed insight into understanding trauma as a neurobiological response, navigating feelings of hyper-vigilance and grief after the NICU, and finding ways to honor your healing while caring for your child. Kayleigh reminds us that trauma is treatable, healing takes time, and that hope can often be held by community until we’re ready to hold it ourselves. As you listen, we hope you feel seen, validated, and reminded that your story — and your healing — are deeply significant. You are never alone in this sisterhood! Kayleigh Summers is a licensed therapist, writer, and content expert in perinatal trauma. She uses her training as a licensed therapist and her lived experience as an Amniotic Fluid Embolism survivor to support families experiencing perinatal trauma. Kayleigh has also created thriving support communities through Instagram and Tik Tok, as well as her podcast, where she provides connection, story sharing, and resources to support those experiencing birth and other trauma. You can find her @thebirthtrauma_mama. To get connected with Kayleigh: Website | Instagram | TikTok This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment. To get connected with DNM: Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram Support the show

In this week’s podcast episode, Ashley and former and beloved podcast co-host Martha revisit an important conversation for our NICU sisterhood: understanding IEPs and how to advocate for your child in school. This replay episode features special education expert Catherine Whitcher, founder of Master IEP Coach, who shares practical guidance on navigating the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process, partnering with your child’s school, and finding hope and empowerment in every step. Catherine reminds us that while the paperwork and terminology can feel overwhelming, an IEP is not a label: it’s a tool to help your child learn, grow, and thrive in the ways that fit them best. She also offers reassurance for the emotional side of this journey, especially for NICU families who have already walked through so many labels, diagnoses, and milestones. As you listen, we hope you feel encouraged, informed, and reminded that you are the expert on your child, and that you and your little one are always, always right on time. About Catherine Whitcher M.Ed and Master IEP Coach Catherine Whitcher, MEd, founder and CEO of Master IEP Coach®, experienced the struggles of the Special Education system both as a certified teacher and as a sister to a wonderful man with Down syndrome. For the past 25 years, she has been creating nationwide change in special education by assisting parents and teachers in developing IEPs that work in the real world. Catherine currently leads the largest independent organization nationwide of parents and teachers working together to build better special education outcomes for the real world. She’s an expert in conflict resolution and leadership at the IEP table while always keeping the focus on preparing every child for further education, employment, and independent living. ** This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment. To get connected with DNM: Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram Support the show

In Part 2 of Kristen’s story, Ashley and Aisha dive deeper into the unique “right on time” milestones that marked her and Amelia’s 11-month NICU journey! Kristen shares about the courage it took to face a trach and heart procedure, and how Amelia’s progress has unfolded through what she calls “inchstones.” She opens up about the challenges of coming home with medical complexity, the bittersweet transition away from daily NICU staff, and the healing process that began after discharge. Through honesty and vulnerability, Kristen reminds us of the power of a mother’s love, the importance of giving ourselves grace, and the hope that comes from celebrating every small step forward! As you listen, may you be reminded that in and out of the NICU, you and your baby are always right on time.  Read Kristen' letter here.Listen to Part 1 of Kristen's Story here.Pre-order Right On Time, our very first children’s board book, here!To get connected with DNM: Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram Support the show

In this week’s episode, Ashley and Aisha are joined by Kristen, a NICU mom whose journey spans 11 months in the NICU, hospital transfers, heart surgery, and eventually a trach for her daughter, Amelia. Kristen vulnerably shares about her water breaking at 23 weeks, the unexpected 11 weeks of hospital bedrest, and Amelia’s birth at 35 weeks. She describes the whirlwind of those first moments in the NICU, the grief of missed milestones, and the overwhelming emotions of watching her daughter fight for life. This is part one of Kristen’s story: A moving reminder of the power of a mother’s love and the unique “right on time” moments that can be found even in the hardest seasons. As you listen, our hope is that you are reminded that you and your baby are and always will be, right on time! Read Kristen' letter here.Pre-order Right On Time, our very first children’s board book, here!To get connected with DNM: Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram Support the show

In this week’s episode, Ashley and Aisha are joined once again by their dear friend Carrie for the long-awaited part two of her family’s story.  In part one, Carrie shared about her daughter Hattie’s unexpected NICU stay after being born full term. In this follow-up episode, Carrie opens up about life beyond the NICU: the years of waiting for the possibility of heart surgery, navigating the unknowns, and preparing Hattie for the big questions and procedures that lay ahead. She vulnerably shares what it meant to parent through fear, the gift of therapy and community support, and the power of celebrating every small win along the way. Carrie also shares how her fierce advocacy helped ensure Hattie received life-saving care at just the right time, and how her family now carries a new sense of peace and gratitude on the other side of surgery! As you listen to Carrie’s story, we hope it brings comfort and encouragement to any NICU or medical mama walking through seasons of waiting, advocating, or doing the “hard thing.” You and your baby are always, always right on time. Pre-order Right On Time, our very first children’s board book, here! To get connected with DNM: Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram Support the show

In this week’s episode, Ashley and Aisha are joined by their dear friend and DNM team member, Kamille, for a heartfelt conversation about kindergarten milestones and what it means to parent COVID NICU babies now entering school. Kamille and Aisha vulnerably share their journeys of navigating the NICU during the earliest days of the pandemic, balancing therapies and virtual care, and the emotions of sending their miracles off to kindergarten. Together, they reflect on the unique challenges of isolation, advocacy, and lingering NICU emotions that resurface during this milestone season. This episode is a tender reminder that whether your child’s milestones look different, delayed, or unexpected, they are always right on time. Pre-order Right On Time, our very first children’s board book, here! To get connected with DNM: Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram Support the show

WE'RE BACK! In this week’s episode, Ashley and Aisha return after a summer break to reflect on Walking Letter of Hope Day, share big back-to-school milestones, and give exciting Dear NICU Mama updates. They also announce the release of Right On Time, Dear NICU Mama's very first children’s book. This book is a beautifully crafted children’s board book designed for NICU families, celebrating the unique milestones of every NICU graduate and the unwavering bond between parent and child. Pre-orders are available now! Pre-order your copy here! We are so excited to be back and cannot wait for the upcoming season of the podcast. Thank you for being a special part of this sisterhood! To get connected with DNM: Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram ------- Special thanks to one of our Walking Letter of Hope Day sponsors, Sanford Health! Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 53,000 employees and serves over 2 million patients and nearly 425,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 56 hospitals, 288 clinic locations, 147 senior care communities, 4,000 physicians and advanced practice providers and nearly 1,500 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to 78 specialties. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.  Support the show

In this week’s episode, we sit down with Carey, a remarkable NICU mom and cherished member of our Dear NICU Mama community and team. Carey vulnerably shares her story of an unexpected diagnosis of preeclampsia just days after moving across the country—and the delivery of her daughter Eliana at 29 weeks. From navigating a 113-day NICU stay, including multiple heart surgeries and a G-tube journey, to processing the emotional weight of bonding, fear, and healing, Carey speaks with honesty and grace. She also reflects on the power of connection, sharing how Walking Letter of Hope Day led her to a life-changing friendship and helped her find her NICU sisters. This episode is a gentle reminder that it’s okay to ask for help, to honor your capacity, and to trust that there is healing—and sisterhood—on the other side of NICU life. Whether you're in the thick of the NICU or reflecting years later, this episode will meet you right where you are. To join us for walking letter of hope day, head here. To join us for our free virtual event, head here! Or learn more about the whole week’s celebration at dearnicumama.com/hope. To get connected with DNM: Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram Support the show