This episode of Empowering Postpartum was fire 🔥!!! Family Nurse Practitioner and founder of Wild Rice Wellness Alison Percowyzc - joins me to geek out about our shared passion of addressing Postnatal Depletion - a group of symptoms (physical, mental, and emotional) that can negatively affect new mothers after birth.
Alison shares her extensive knowledge and insight about this very common yet overlooked syndrome that can cause symptoms like:
😴 fatigue
🧠brain-fog
😢 mood swings and more.
Listen to learn more about this critical topic, how to advocate for nutrient testing and how address the underlying causes.
About Our Guest:
Alison Percowycz, is a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner and has a deep rooted passion for helping others get well by taking the unconventional approach. She has training in conventional and functional medicine and she integrates the best of both worlds to create optimal health and wellness. She has a passion for working with women in the postpartum period, and getting them back to vibrant health so that they can enjoy motherhood to its fullest without their health getting in the way. She owns an Integrative and Functional Medicine Practice, Wild Rice Wellness, located in Colorado.
Follow Jessi
For more incredible information and support on creating a beautiful, nourished, and supported postpartum experience BEFORE birth, be sure to follow me over on IG and binge all of my valuable fourth trimester content!
*Postpartum Planning and Prep Course now available!*
Show Notes:
Introduction (00:20)
Guest: Allison Percowycz, MSN, FNP-C founder of Wild Rice Wellness
Topic: Postnatal depletion
Allison's personal story and journey into functional medicine (02:08)
Experiences with first pregnancy and postpartum period
Health complications leading to diving into functional medicine
Explanation of postnatal depletion syndrome (07:26)
Not a medical diagnosis, but a constellation of symptoms
Coined by Dr. Oscar Serrallach
Common symptoms: brain fog, anxiety, fatigue, etc.
Importance of nutrient testing and optimization (15:51)
Discussion on advocating for proper testing
Key nutrients to focus on: iron, magnesium, zinc, vitamin D, B vitamins
Nutrition and supplementation strategies (37:44)
Food-first approach
Importance of balanced meals and snacks
Planning ahead for postpartum nutrition
Self-care and stress reduction in postpartum (45:01)
Mindfulness practices
Importance of mindful eating
Building a support system
Connect with Allison:
In this episode of Empowering Postpartum I sat down to talk with financial expert Alli Williams Founder and CEO of FinanciALLI Focused. We discussed the important and often overwhelming idea of preparing for the financial aspects of having a baby. Alli touched on how to plan ahead for expected and unexpected costs, the importance of proactive financial planning, and creative ways to budget for a new (adorable) addition to your growing family. If you are wanting to enter into your parenthood without the burden of your finances hanging over your head, you need to watch this value-packed episode!
About Our Guest:
Alli is the founder and CEO of FinanciALLI Focused, a financial literacy company helping people create a flexible financial plan they can actually stick to (no deprivation here). She has helped hundreds of people pay off debt, build savings, spend on what they value, invest, and feel confident with their finances. Alli’s work has been featured on Business Insider, Nerdwallet, Channel 7 News, and more. Alli has her MBA in Finance and lives in South Carolina with her husband and 2 sons. She spends her time at football games (Go Gamecocks!) and with a Starbucks latte in her hand.
Follow Jessi
For more incredible information and support on creating a beautiful, nourished, and supported postpartum experience BEFORE birth, be sure to follow me over on IG and binge all of my valuable fourth trimester content!
*Postpartum Planning and Prep Course now available!*
Show Notes:
Introduction (01:32)
Special guest Alli Williams, founder and CEO of FinanciALLI Focused
Importance of preparing financially for a baby (02:12)
Setting up sinking funds and savings accounts
Balancing debt payoff with spending and investing
Expected costs to consider (04:06)
Review maternity/paternity benefits and leave policies
Estimate loss of income during leave
Research medical costs and hospital fees (04:42)
Tip: Call the hospital for estimates on different birth scenarios
Unexpected costs after birth (17:46)
Postpartum purchases (e.g., breastfeeding supplies)
Increased food expenses (takeout, meal delivery)
Childcare planning and costs
Budgeting strategies (26:48)
Budget per paycheck rather than monthly (30:31)
Aim for 15-minute weekly check-ins
Balance expenses throughout the month
Financial accounts for children (35:11)
High-yield savings account
Custodial account (UGMA/UTMA)
529 college savings plan
Teaching kids about money (40:33)
Explain costs and delayed gratification
Encourage saving and budgeting skills
Discuss credit cards and compound interest
Connect with Alli (47:44)
🌊 In this episode of Empowering Postpartum I had the privilege of interviewing Midwife Jen Grieco Desmarais, CPM, RM about waterbirth.🌊
We discussed the safety and benefits of waterbirth, physiological aspects of babies born in water, and the importance of informed decision-making in birth options. This episode offers valuable information for expectant parents considering waterbirth or seeking a more empowering birth experience. 🤰🌊 🤱
About Our Guest:
With over 15 years of midwifery experience, Jennifer Grieco has dedicated her life to supporting families throughout many of life’s significant events, but especially through the sacred journey of childbirth. Her midwifery approach is rooted in the belief that birth is not simply a physical event but soul work, a co-creation of a deeply personal and empowering experience. Jen stands by the principle that every individual's body, baby, and choices deserve utmost respect, advocating for a prenatal, birth and postpartum experience that is safe and protected. Her passion is waterbirth and she loves educating families on the safety and positive benefits/outcomes from a waterbirth experience. When Jen is not attending births, she is busy educating midwifery students to ensure that the next generation of birth stewards continue with the knowledge, safety and respect that she so deeply instills in anyone she works with.
Follow Jessi
For more incredible information and support on creating a beautiful, nourished, and supported postpartum experience BEFORE birth, be sure to follow me over on IG and binge all of my valuable fourth trimester content!
*Postpartum Planning and Prep Course now available!*
Show Notes:
Introduction (01:45)
Guest Jennifer Griego, midwife with 15+ years of experience (01:28)
Jennifer's journey into midwifery
Started as a nurse, then became a certified professional midwife
Personal experience with different birth scenarios, including waterbirth
Safety of waterbirth (04:31)
Controversial topic, but studies support its safety
Requires knowledge and trust in the process
Benefits of laboring in water (07:14)
Physiological aspects of waterbirth (15:28)
How babies transition from placental perfusion to breathing
Trigeminal nerve and initiation of first breath
Exploring birth options and informed decision-making (22:54)
Importance of researching different birth environments
Considering personal comfort and safety
Importance of partner involvement in birth planning (25:40)
Communication and shared decision-making
Partner's role in advocacy and support
Selecting the right birth team and provider (28:13)
Interviewing potential providers
Importance of feeling respected and heard
Healing potential of waterbirth for trauma survivors (34:31)
Creating a safe and empowering birth environment
Prenatal care and provider relationship (42:50)
Jennifer's approach: hour-long prenatal visits, 12-15 appointments
Addressing fears and emotional preparation for birth
Postpartum care (44:01)
Importance of multiple postpartum check-ins
Connection between prenatal care, birth experience, and postpartum outcomes
Connect with Jennifer Griego (45:14)
Listen in to this episode of Empowering Postpartum, where I welcome relationship coaches Brianna and Mark Carey of Intimacy Evolution for a great discussion all about navigating the transition from partners to parents. The Careys share invaluable insights on maintaining connection during the postpartum period, including practical tips for communication, managing expectations, and carving out time for each other amidst the demands of new parenthood.
About Our Guests:
Brianna Carey is a Relationship & Intimacy coach with over 15 years of experience as a sexual health educator. After the birth of her son in 2015, she and her husband quickly realized the lack of support new parents have in nurturing their relationship after having a baby. Brianna works with women who are ready to reclaim their desire & to feel empowered in exploring their pleasure. Together with her husband, Mark Carey, a Licensed Professional Counselor, they work with couples on how to create deeper connections, stronger communication and learn how to enjoy more fulfilling intimacy after having a baby.
Follow Jessi
For more incredible information and support on creating a beautiful, nourished, and supported postpartum experience BEFORE birth, be sure to follow me over on IG and binge all of my valuable fourth trimester content!
*Postpartum Planning and Prep Course now available!*
Show Notes:
Introduction of guests Brianna and Mark Carey, relationship and intimacy coaches (01:29)
Brianna has 16+ years of experience as a sexual health educator
Mark is a licensed professional counselor for 10+ years
They developed their approach after experiencing challenges in their own relationship post-baby
The importance of redefining roles and expectations after having a baby (07:26)
Discuss how relationship dynamics shift with each new child
Emphasize the need for open, honest conversations about new roles
Suggest making lists of responsibilities and what can be outsourced or eliminated
Tips for managing household responsibilities postpartum (09:20)
Recommend simple, easy solutions to reduce stress (ie. using paper plates to reduce dishes)
Suggest freezer meals and simplifying household tasks
Advise being realistic about what can be accomplished during healing
Addressing feelings of loneliness and disconnection in new parenthood (10:45)
Discuss the importance of understanding each other's connection needs
Introduce the concept of "connection profiles" and love languages
The impact of societal pressure on new mothers (12:51)
Communicating desires and needs effectively with your partner (18:22)
Introduce a three-step process: express feelings, state desires, commit to action
Emphasize the importance of expressing desires without attachment to outcomes
Dealing with unexpected responses triggered by past experiences (26:38)
Discuss how having children can bring up unresolved issues from one's own childhood
Emphasize the need for self-awareness and open communication
The need for individual decompression time for both partners (33:01)
Eye gazing as a powerful tool for reconnection (36:19)
The importance of getting back into your body for emotional connection (38:17)
Weekly check-ins as a game-changer for relationships (40:03)
Describe the structure of their weekly check-ins
Emphasize how this practice can prevent miscommunications and conflicts
Practical tips for scheduling and planning to reduce conflict (42:11)
Suggest using shared calendars for all activities and meals
Recommend scheduling intentional connection time and exercise together
Balancing logistics with intentional connection activities (44:15)
Advise "sandwiching" logistical discussions between connection activities
Suggest brief check-ins on relationship satisfaction and areas for improvement
Connect with Brianna and Mark
In this episode of Empowering Postpartum the inspiring Jo Peters, The Unicorn Coach 🦄 joined me to talk about the importance of preparing yourself for the challenges of the fourth trimester.
Some of the key topics we discuss include:
✨ How understanding your personality archetypes can help you create a custom postpartum plan
✨How strengthening your relationship with your partner and nurturing your communication is key
✨ The importance of acknowledging the truth that in postpartum you are caring for TWO newborns - YOU and YOUR BABY.
About Our Guest:
Jo Peters (aka the Unicorn Coach) is an experienced and passionate leader, speaker, coach, transformational trainer, mom, wife, and friend. Not to mention a Bestselling author of two books in 7 countries. She enjoys helping woman to discover how to have it all without doing it all. She is also the host of a TV Show MOMFIT with Jo Peters, that reaches over 1 MM views every week.
Follow Jessi
For more incredible information and support on creating a beautiful, nourished, and supported postpartum experience BEFORE birth, be sure to follow me over on IG and binge all of my valuable fourth trimester content!
*Postpartum Planning and Prep Course now available!*
Show Notes:
• Introduction (01:27)
- Guest: Joe Peters, the unicorn coach and host of Mom Fit TV
- Known for empowering women and helping them "claim their power back"
• Discussion on the lack of preparation for the fourth trimester (05:08)
- Contrast between extensive pregnancy preparation and limited postpartum preparation
- Impact on physical and emotional well-being
• The importance of community support in motherhood (06:35)
- Traditional societies vs. modern, globalized world
- Loss of built-in support systems
• The challenge for perfectionists and controlling personalities in postpartum (09:10)
• Realistic expectations about postpartum healing (10:30)
- Physical, mental, emotional, and hormonal healing takes time
- Critique of the six-week recovery expectation
• Impact of social media and societal expectations on new mothers (12:47)
• The value of planning for the fourth trimester during pregnancy (20:14)
• Understanding personal archetypes and personality traits for postpartum preparation (15:29)
- Importance of knowing your default responses and comfort zones
- Planning proactively based on your archetypes
• Communicating with partners about postpartum expectations (27:45)
- Discussing potential stressors and triggers
- Importance of turning towards each other during difficult times
• The concept of a "no divorce discussion" agreement for the first two years after birth (29:15)
• Nurturing the relationship outside of being parents (32:03)
- Finding new ways to connect given the realities of having a newborn
- Adapting date nights and quality time to fit new circumstances
• Reframing the postpartum experience as a journey of self-discovery (35:48)
- Viewing yourself as a "newborn mom"
- Celebrating small accomplishments
• The importance of self-awareness and personal growth in motherhood (37:41)
• Investing in learning about yourself and your tendencies (41:39)
• Creating a supportive "village" for postpartum (43:06)
- Curating the right people for support
- The importance of feeling seen and heard
• The value of couples therapy and communication courses (44:15)
• Embracing help during postpartum (45:51)
- Postpartum as a season of receiving, not just giving
- Overcoming the stigma of asking for and accepting help
• Connect with Jo Peters (46:49)
- IG
- FB
- Website
In this episode of Empowering Postpartum with Jessi Sletten, I had the privilege of speaking with Tara Moler, Leadership and Certified Life Coach and founder of Motherhood Balanced. Tara shares her insights on navigating the transition back to work after maternity leave. From managing working-mom “guilt” to setting effective boundaries for work-life balance, Tara offers practical tips and personal stories to empower new mothers. Listen in to discover strategies for prioritizing self-care and achieving fulfillment in both your professional and personal life after birth.
About Our Guest:
Tara Moler, a Leadership and Certified Life Coach and founder of Motherhood Balanced, specializes in helping working moms who feel they’re failing at managing both high-achieving work and being the mom they want to be. She helps them reclaim their life and eliminate overwhelm by taking control of their time, priorities, and mind so they can find fulfillment in all areas of their life… guilt-free.
Follow Jessi
For more incredible information and support on creating a beautiful, nourished, and supported postpartum experience, be sure to follow me over on IG and binge all of my valuable fourth trimester content!
Show Notes:
Introduction (0:23)
Host Jessi Sletten welcomes special guest Tara Moler, Leadership and Certified Life Coach and founder of Motherhood Balanced.
Tara’s Journey (2:01)
Tara shares her journey as a leadership and certified coach, helping women prepare for returning to work after maternity leave.
Struggled to balance work, family, and personal life after second child, felt like a failure in multiple areas.
Differentiating between Guilt and Grief Transitioning Back to Work (4:25)
Tips for managing guilt during maternity leave, including reframing that the guilt may actually be grief for maternity leave ending
Reflecting on guilt/sadness related to returning kids to daycare.
Recognizing the benefits of sending children to childcare for your child, yourself, and your family as a whole.
Setting Boundaries for a Successful Return to Work (11:14)
Modeling passion and fulfillment work can bring you for your children.
Focusing on why returning to work is best for family, not feeling pressured by societal expectations.
Importance of setting clear boundaries and communicating them effectively.
Boundaries as agreements you make with yourself.
Setting boundaries on calendar availability and work time.
Clear separation between work and personal time to be fully present.
Setting Boundaries for Work and Family Life While Working from Home (20:47)
Setting boundaries and respecting own time.
Clear escalation process for work issues and internally honoring your own boundaries.
Work-from-Home Challenges and Strategies (26:42)
Challenges of working from home with young children, creating boundaries and structure.
Tool to manage work and family responsibilities.
Tara shares her idea of creating a transition process to close out workday and prepare for home life.
Meditation and grounding techniques before entering home life.
Work-Life Balance, Collaboration, and Asking for What You Need (38:28)
Collaborative problem-solving approach to address concerns while maintaining boundaries.
Experience of asking for work flexibility and positive outcomes.
Self-Advocacy and Work-Life Balance for New Mothers (42:36)
Developing and honing self-advocacy skills.
Voicing needs and wants for increased confidence and empowerment.
Tara advises if you are struggling self-criticism to practice reframing those thoughts as if you were talking to your best friend.
Connect with Tara
Website: https://www.motherhoodbalanced.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/motherhood_balanced_w.tara/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CoachTaraMoler/
In this episode Host Jessi Sletten chats with the amazing Tiffany Lebano (aka "The Mama Coach") about the importance of evidence based education and support for new and expecting parents.
Listen in as they discuss important topics like:
- the realities of postpartum challenges
- the benefits of planning for postpartum before birth
- the importance of personalized support
- evidence-based resources for new parents and expecting parents.
Tiffany and Jessi both share their personal experiences (individually and professionally) and practical advice to empower mothers in their journey through early parenthood.
Follow Jessi
For more incredible information and support on creating a beautiful, nourished, and supported postpartum experience, be sure to follow me over on IG and binge all of my valuable fourth trimester content!
About Our Guest:
Tiffany Lebano (aka "The Mama Coach") is a Pediatric registered nurse with a BSN from Johns Hopkins. She has been been a birth and postpartum doula, she is a lactation counselor, prenatal educator, and sleep coach. Her goal is to empower families with knowledge and support them through the phases of parenthood. Everything from prenatal education through potty training and preschooler sleep, she can help. “There’s no way to be a perfect mother but a million ways to be a great one”. Babies are not one size fits all but Tiffany believes by working together you can find what works for you and your family.
Show Notes:
Introduction (0:25)
Postpartum Challenges and Support (6:26)
Postpartum Depression and Empowerment (12:51)
The Importance of Support During Postpartum (18:30)
Finding Reliable Sources for New Parent Support and Education (24:03)
Finding the Right Birth Support Team (30:22)
Personalized Postpartum Care (33:46)
Personalized Care and Continuity of Care in Nursing (39:25)
Postpartum Symptom Tracking Tips (46:31)
Connect with Tiffany
In this enlightening episode I had the privilege of chatting with Dr. Anna Towne, Pelvic Floor Therapist and founder of Strong Core Mama We discussed one of the most underserved aspects of postpartum and pregnancy wellness - pelvic floor health. Together, we confront the detrimental "bounce back" culture, advocating for a shift towards holistic well-being over unrealistic timelines. From debunking misconceptions surrounding pelvic floor issues to advocating for individualized recovery milestones and nurturing self-care practices, we hold nothing back when it comes to postpartum recovery! Listen and learn why you do NOT have to accept pain, weakness, and leaking as your "new normal" after birth. Follow Jessi
For more incredible information and support on creating a beautiful, nourished, and supported postpartum experience, be sure to follow me over on IG and binge all of my valuable fourth trimester content! Show Notes: Introduction (0:00 - 0:27) Topic: Postpartum pelvic floor health with Dr. Anna Towne, Physical Therapist Dr. Towne's Background (0:27 - 4:31) - Passion for physical therapy stemmed from personal injury - Became certified in pelvic floor physical therapy - Helps pregnant and postpartum women Postpartum Recovery and "Bounce Back" Culture (4:31 - 11:03) - Lack of pregnancy/postpartum education leads to challenges - Prioritizing mother's well-being for family to thrive - Negative impact of "bounce back" culture - Pelvic floor issues 6-12 months postpartum Body Image and Individualized Milestones (11:03 - 19:55) - Importance of individualized postpartum recovery - Checklist approach instead of strict timeline - Setting achievable milestones for mental health - Embracing postpartum body instead of comparison - Focusing on strength goals, not just appearance Postpartum Body Changes, Nutrition and Self-Care (19:55 - 25:00) - Nurturing and nourishing body over appearance - Importance of hydration and protein Normalizing the Healing Process (25:00 - 31:44) - Nourishing vs punishing/controlling body Need for cultural shift to support healing (28:37) - Lack of support for working parents without village - Curating village, exploring resources Pelvic Floor and Core Connection (31:44 - 36:49) - Pelvic floor weakness misdiagnosed - Lack of core and pelvic floor coordination - Holistic approach (beyond Kegels) Postpartum Core Healing and Back Pain (36:49 - 42:59) - Abdominal separation and impact on posture - Importance of foundational movements - Role of glutes in preventing/relieving back pain - Exercises and posture awareness Resources for Moms (42:59 - 48:28) - Body awareness and simple exercises - Free postpartum rehabilitation resources - Virtual rehab programs for common issues - C-section safe, scar mobilization, high-impact training Connect with Dr. Towne: - Instagram: / strongcoremama - Website: strongcoremama.com
Resources mentioned: FREE DOWNLOADS: Top 5 tips for postpartum recovery- https://strongcoremama.com/strong-hea... Checklist for Return to Activity- https://strongcoremama.com/strong-cor... Checklist for Return to Running- https://strongcoremama.com/strong-run... FREE TRIALS Postpartum core and pelvic floor rehab and strength (6+ weeks - 6+ years)- https://strongcoremama.com/strong-cor... Return to running pain-free and leak-free with rehab and strength (12+ weeks- 12+ years)- https://strongcoremama.com/strong-run... PROGRAMS & PRODUCTS Early postpartum healing movements (weeks 2-8 postpartum) - https://strongcoremama.com/strong-hea... Pregnancy-safe core and pelvic floor exercises (0-40 weeks pregnant) - https://strongcoremama.com/strong-exp... Help your core and pelvic floor in postpartum with my favorite products (all Pelvic Floor PT approved!) https://strongcoremama.com/favorites
Are you a new or expectant mom feeling torn between embracing motherhood and pursuing your entrepreneurial dreams? In this insightful episode, postpartum empowerment coach Jessi Sletten is joined by best-selling author and master life coach Molly Claire. They dive deep into finding that sacred balance between raising babies and building businesses. Molly shares hard-won wisdom from her own journey as a mom of three, dismantling the flawed "do it all" mentality and providing real-world strategies to integrate self-care, leverage support systems, and crystalize your vision for an ideal life. Whether you're drowning in postpartum depletion or struggling to juggle work and family, this dialogue offers a nurturing roadmap to unapologetically claim your multifaceted identity as both dedicated mother and thriving entrepreneur.
Follow Jessi
For more incredible information and support on creating a beautiful, nourished, and supported postpartum experience, be sure to follow me over on IG and binge all of my valuable fourth trimester content!
Connect with Molly
Book: "The Happy Mom Mindset" and workbook (available on Amazon)
Website: www.mollyclaire.com
Podcast: The Masterful Coach
Show Notes:
Introduction (0:00 - 1:30)
Welcome to Empowering Postpartum with Jessi Sletten
Today's guest: Molly Claire, Best-Selling Author and Master Life & Business Coach
Topic: Finding balance between motherhood and entrepreneurship
Molly Claire's Background (1:30 - 2:35)
Mom of 3 kids (ages 21, 19, 13)
Former coach for overwhelmed moms
Wrote book "The Happy Mom Mindset"
Now coaches other coaches to be more effective
Making Room for Motherhood and Business (2:35 - 12:07)
Having purpose/passion outside of motherhood allows you to show up better as a mom
Don't spread yourself thin trying to "do it all"
Make your personal life and business support each other, not compete
Build in "flex time" for unexpected things that come up
Giving Yourself Grace in Motherhood (12:07 - 20:24)
Have compassion, you're figuring it out
Identify what really matters to you as a mom vs. others' expectations
New motherhood is never what you expect
Prioritizing Self-Care (20:24 - 31:44)
Getting enough sleep, nutrition, etc. allows you to be more present
Schedule self-care, don't view it as selfish
Share load with partner
Embracing Motherhood for Personal Growth (31:44 - 41:57)
Motherhood challenges you to face fears, heal from your past
Starting a business requires self-belief
The combo of motherhood + entrepreneurship is a big deal!
Building Your Support System (41:57 - 45:13)
Don't go it alone - get coaches, mentors, nurture your village
Curate pre/postnatal support, don't wait until you're drowning
Final Advice (45:48 - 47:37)
Get crystal clear on your ideal life/business vision
Define your non-negotiables for work/life
Staying anchored to your vision helps you persist through challenges
In this candid conversation on Empowering Postpartum with Jessi Sletten, licensed marriage and family therapist Matthew Magiapane opens up about his personal journey supporting his wife through postpartum depression after the birth of their first child. He provides an insightful partner's perspective, offering practical tips for showing up, validating feelings, nurturing communication, and turning toward each other during this challenging transition. Matthew and host Jessi Sletten, a postpartum empowerment coach, delve into the added complexities of navigating perinatal mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. They discuss the importance of building a support village, embracing imperfection in parenting, and recognizing small victories. Whether preparing for postpartum or currently experiencing it, this episode offers hope and guidance for partners on how to be a compassionate, supportive, and empowering presence.
Guest Info:
Matthew Mangiapane is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in New York. He has over 14 years’ experience helping families, couples and individuals uncover coping skills they already have to live the life they desire. He is also a devoted husband to his wife of five years and a father to two toddlers and two dogs.
Connect with Matthew:
IG
FB
Website
Podcast: Chat About That With Matt (found on all podcasting platforms)
Follow Jessi
For more incredible information and support on creating a beautiful, nourished, and supported postpartum experience, be sure to follow me over on IG and binge all of my valuable fourth trimester content!
Show Notes:
Introduction (0:00 - 2:14)
Jessi Sletten introduces herself and the show
Introduces guest Matthew Magiapane, a licensed marriage and family therapist
Matthew's Background and Personal Experience (2:15 - 4:04)
Matthew shares about his work and experience with clients
Discusses his own experience with his wife's postpartum depression after having their first child
The Challenges of Postpartum Depression During the Pandemic (4:05 - 9:54)
Matthew describes the added challenges of navigating postpartum depression during the COVID-19 pandemic
Highlights the importance of taking breaks and coming back to difficult conversations
Emphasizes open communication between partners
Supporting Your Partner Through Postpartum Depression (9:55 - 22:20)
Strategies for partners to show up and be supportive
The importance of being seen, heard, and validated
Building communication pathways and nourishing the relationship
Recognizing signs that a partner may be struggling
Seeking Professional Help and Therapy (22:21 - 35:07)
Addressing the stigma around therapy
Tips for finding the right therapist and building a comfortable therapeutic relationship
Acknowledging that therapy may not be a perfect fit initially
Breastfeeding Challenges and Impact on Mental Health (35:08 - 45:35)
Matthew and Jessi share their experiences with breastfeeding difficulties
How breastfeeding struggles can contribute to postpartum mental health issues
The importance of validation and removing pressure around breastfeeding
Building a Support Village (45:36 - 49:40)
The partner can't be the only support system
Identifying community resources and building a support network
Embracing Imperfection in Parenting (49:41 - 53:09)
Learning from mistakes and giving yourself grace
Recognizing small achievements and steps forward
This powerful episode dives deep into the emotional journey of infertility and the unexpected struggles that can arise for birthing parents as they transition into parenthood after years of dreaming about it. Infertility Coach Abbe Feder of InCircle Fertility candidly shares her personal story of identity crisis after finally becoming a mother to twins via IVF following six long years of infertility treatments and pregnancy loss. Abbe and Jessi provide an honest look at the disconnect some parents feel from their newborns, the unexpected struggle of letting go of the "infertility identity", and the critical need for more postpartum support tailored to this experience. With vulnerability and honesty, they discuss the paramount importance of self-care, building a supportive village, and communicating openly with partners during this life-changing season. For any birthing person who has walked the heartbreaking road of infertility, this episode offers hard-won advice and reassuring validation.
Key Points:
Identity Shifts (1:33):
Postpartum Challenges (4:22):
Supportive Village (22:39):
Coping Strategies (38:40):
Parenting Reframes (43:08):
Action Steps:
Work With Jessi
Empowering Postpartum Coaching guides new and pregnant moms through the transition into motherhood so that they can bond with their baby without sacrificing their own self care. If this sounds like the support you desire for your own unique journey into parenthood, connect with Jessi on IG and send her a message or email her at jessi@empoweringpostpartum.com
Connect with Abbe for further support:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/incirclefertility/
Website: https://www.incirclefertility.com/
Podcast: The Fertility Check with Abbe Feder
Special Guest: Rose Clark from Love the Way You Parent
In this episode of Empowering Postpartum, host Jessi Sletten interviews parenting coach Rose Clark about the importance of healing from childhood trauma in order to become the parent you aspire to be. Rose shares tools from the Language of Listening™ parenting model focused on validating children's emotions and behavior, identifying their needs, and naming their strengths. A key theme is the parallel process of using these techniques not only with children, but also to "re-parent" ourselves. As Rose notes, we have to give compassion to ourselves first before we can fully give it to our kids.
Guest Info:
After burning out at work, Rose learned, in therapy, that she had had a highly abusive childhood. Her need to push herself SO HARD was rooted in trying to earn something that seemed out of reach her whole life - feeling her parents' love. When Rose became a mom, it magnified her insecurities, and started triggering UNSHED TEARS and UNEXPRESSED ANGER. She felt she had 2 CHOICES… Fall into the abyss of repeating what her parents did, or learn completely new ways of relating. Rose will forever be grateful that she stumbled upon Language of Listening®, a parenting model that not only allowed her to become the mom she always wanted to be, but also allowed her to re-parent herself. Now, as an Authorized Language of Listening® coach, she specializes in helping moms who had difficult childhoods and gets them to a place where they LOVE the way they parent.
Connect with Rose on IG and FB
Show Notes:
1. Introduction from Jessi (0:17)
2. Rose introduces herself and her background (1:28)
3. Importance of healing yourself in order to parent the way you aspire to (4:51)
4. Language of Listening™ Tools (6:42)
Say What You See® (Connection/Validation)
Naming Strengths (Building Self-Esteem)
Can Do’s (Holding Healthy Boundaries)
5. Nurturing yourself first to be the parent you want to be (25:10)
6. Instilling unshakable confidence in kids (32:30)
7. Can use tools NOW - before becoming parent (36:48)
8. Importance of creating support system ahead of time (40:11)
9. Applying tools for toddler/new baby dynamic (42:55)
10. Validation for yourself enables validation for kids (45:07)
Action Steps:
Work with Jessi:
Empowering Postpartum Coaching guides new and pregnant moms through the transition into motherhood so that they can bond with their baby without sacrificing their own self care. If this sounds like the support you desire for your own unique journey into parenthood, send me a message on IG now and we can chat about if this program would be a good fit for you!
In this week's episode of Empowering Postpartum, host Jessi Sletten invites Pediatric Sleep Specialists Paige LeGault and Lindsey Burchfield from Parenting Practice of Colorado to explore the elusive world of baby sleep.
With insights on postpartum wellness, partner involvement, and safe sleep practices, this episode offers a comprehensive guide to preparing for and navigating the challenges of newborn sleep while promoting a restful environment for the whole family.
Guest Info:
Paige LeGault & Lindsey Burchfield are friends and sleep obsessed mamas and co-founders of Parenting Practice of Colorado, where they exhausted parents take control of their child’s sleep since 2019. Working with Paige & Lindsey allows moms and dads to feel rested and energized again, slash anxiety around the sleep experience, and confidently know how to meet their baby or toddler’s sleep needs. They work with parents and caregivers in the continental US and beyond, from pregnancy through 12 years of age. The vast majority of clients who work with Paige & Lindsey have tried all of the sleep tips, tricks, and gadgets but still have a baby or toddler that is not sleeping well. Parenting Practice of Colorado helps bring clarity to why that is happening and finally help families achieve that full night’s rest they so desperately deserve.
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingpracticeco/
Collaboration with Empowering Postpartum:
4th Trimester Guide + The Sleep Farm (0-3 months)
Show Notes:
Intro: 0:00
1. Postpartum Wellness and Sleep Accessibility (3:56)
2. Sleep Training for New Parents (5:58)
3. Prioritizing Sleep for Newborns and Parents (7:46)
4. Pregnancy and Postpartum Care Through Education (8:56)
5. New Mom's Sleep Challenges with Baby (10:44)
6. Establishing Bedtime Routines (12:21)
7. Developing Night Rituals for Babies and Realistic Expectations (13:55)
8. Newborn Sleep Habits and Routines (15:47)
9. Newborn Sleep and Independence (18:36)
10. Helping Parents Overcome Dependence on One Way of Sleeping (21:03)
11. Newborn Sleep and Swaddling Techniques (22:22)
12. Parenting Tips for Newborns and Breastfeeding (27:53)
13. Postpartum Support and Bonding with Partners (31:05)
14. Safe Sleep Practices for Newborns (41:35)
15. Creating a Sleep-Conducive Environment (44:25)
Outro: 46:18
Special Guest: Lauren Haxby, L&D RN, Mama of 2
In this episode, Host Jessi Sletten interviews Lauren Haxby, a labor and delivery nurse and mother of two. After a difficult first birth and postpartum period, Lauren worked with Jessi to create a plan to feel more supported postpartum the second time.
Key elements included focusing on her own nutrition, building her community of support, taking time to rest and recover, and finding empowering self-care activities. Lauren says working with Jessi ahead of time was instrumental in having a better postpartum experience.
She emphasizes the importance of being informed and prepared, advocating for yourself, having the right support and finding things that make you feel empowered as a new parent. ✨ If you are ready to feel as prepared and empowered for your postpartum journey as Lauren, then Empowering Postpartum Coaching is exactly what you are looking for 🫶🏻
Learn more and get started here: https://empoweringpostpartum.com/empoweringpostpartumcoaching/
Connect with Lauren on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurenhaxby/
Outline of the Show:
Introduction (0:21)
Postpartum Recovery and Self-care (1:43)
Postpartum Care and Birth Experiences (9:05)
Unmedicated Birth, Postpartum Care, and Support (13:40)
Postpartum Support and Community (19:17)
Breastfeeding Support and Self-Advocacy (24:00)
Building a Supportive Birth and Postpartum Team (32:12)
Postpartum Depression and Its Effects on New Mothers (36:33)
Postpartum Self-Care and Identity Shift (43:07)
In this week's episode, Host Jessi Sletten dives into an often overlooked aspect of new parenthood - the feelings of loss and grief for our former lives. She explores the six common losses new parents face including loss of self, voice and control. These losses parallel those seen in trauma, which birth and postpartum can be. Breaking the silence around this grief is key to normalizing the experience and building resilience. Jessi shares actionable tips for regaining a sense of empowerment amidst the chaos of newborn life, such as naming emotions, prioritizing self-care, and custom postpartum planning. With compassionate support, we can process these identity shifts without losing ourselves. KEY TOPICS:
Introduction [0:21]
Losses in Postpartum [5:02]
Loss of Self [6:51]
Loss of Voice [12:37]
Loss of Control [17:28]
Hope & Resiliency [21:47]
Tips & Resources [29:08]
In this insightful episode of "Baby Proof Your Marriage," Host Jessi Sletten guides listeners through the crucial process of nurturing and strengthening partnerships before the arrival of a baby. Addressing common challenges faced by new parents, the episode emphasizes proactive support, open communication, and the importance of fortifying relationships before parenthood. Jessi offers valuable strategies, resources, and a free guide, "Baby Proof Your Marriage," to help couples navigate the transformative journey of pregnancy and postpartum while fostering a resilient connection. Tune in for expert advice on building a strong foundation and prioritizing self-care during this significant life transition.
Intro: 0:00 1. Strengthening Partnership Before Baby Arrives (0:19) Host Jessi Sletten emphasizes the importance of nurturing relationships before childbirth. Prioritizing the relationship is crucial for postpartum success. 2. Parental Dynamics and Communication During Postpartum (4:25) - New parents often face conflicts assuming their relationship will remain unchanged. - Proactive support during postpartum is vital to avoid resentment and breakdown. - Waiting to address issues can lead to a weakened connection and increased divorce risk. 3. Postpartum Relationship Struggles and Communication (9:40) - 69% of parents face resentment post-baby, stressing the need for pre-transition discussions. - Personal experience shared, emphasizing communication and preparation during pregnancy. - Strategies offered for building strong communication and support foundations. 4. Fortifying Relationship Before Parenthood (17:42) - Reflecting on upbringing aids meaningful conversations about parenting. - Identifying values and goals fosters open and honest discussions with partners. 5. Strengthening Relationships Before and After Baby (22:55) - Open communication and active listening are key in building a resilient relationship. - Prioritizing communication, planning, and support leads to a lasting partnership. - Free "Baby Proof Your Marriage" guide offers tips for productive conversations. Download here: https://empoweringpostpartum.com/free-guide-how-to-baby-proof-your-marriage/ 6. Postpartum Coaching Program for New Mothers (28:39) - Holistic postpartum plan creation with a focus on self-care and partnership. - Unlimited support for breastfeeding and bottle feeding challenges. - Empowerment and support during the transition to parenthood. Learn more and get started here: https://empoweringpostpartum.com/empoweringpostpartumcoaching/ Connect with Jessi on Instagram for more postpartum prep and wellness tips! https://www.instagram.com/empowering_postpartum/
In this week's empowering episode, we explore the problematic expectation placed on new mothers to "bounce back" to their pre-pregnancy body and life shortly after giving birth.
This compassionate episode encourages birthgivers to nurture themselves during the postpartum period instead of striving to attain unrealistic body ideals. Ditching the bounce back mentality allows space for healing, bonding with baby, and embracing our forever changed post-pregnancy body.
Intro: 0:00
1. Postpartum Expectations and Body Transformation (0:20)
2. The Lasting Impact of Pregnancy on Body and Identity (3:32)
3. Postpartum Mindset Shift and Self-Care (8:10)
4. Postpartum Nutrition and Healing Connection (15:26)
5. Nutrient-Dense Foods for Postpartum Recovery (20:33)
6. Postpartum Nutrition for Healing and Bonding (25:59)
7. Shifting Focus from Losing Baby Weight to Honoring Postpartum Body (30:29)
8. Postpartum Healing and Nutrition Coaching (38:16)
9. Expanding on Program Benefits for Postpartum Nutrition and Self-Care (43:16)
Outro: 45:00
Action Steps:
Get Support for Your Postpartum Journey: Empowering Postpartum Coaching Program This immersive 3-month program offers highly customizable support designed to help you holistically plan, prepare, and navigate your unique postpartum journey. Including the Postpartum Nutrition Plan and support you need to heal from the inside out. Postpartum Nutrition Planning Package Receive a tailored 6-week postpartum nutrition plan and coaching to deeply nourish your body and replenish depleted nutrient stores after birth. Perfect if you have already had your baby (even 1, 2 or 3 years postpartum) and are struggling with postpartum depletion, fatigue, brain-fog, and so much more.
Connect with and follow Jessi on Instagram!
Intro: 0:00
1. Building an Ideal Postpartum Experience (0:18)
2. Prioritizing Postpartum Recovery and Bonding (3:49)
3. Creating a Comfortable Recovery Space for New Mothers (9:10)
4. Postpartum Recovery Space Essentials (14:54)
5. Prioritizing Postpartum Wellness and Creating a Personalized Nest (21:44)
6. Prioritizing Self-Care for New Parents (27:32)
7. Postpartum Wellness and Preparation for New Mothers (33:29)
8. Postpartum Wellness and Nutrition Coaching (38:23)
9. Postpartum Recovery and Self-Care (42:24)
Outro: 45:00
Purchase the "Fourth Trimester Guide" here: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/64e8e9582138fe003a699e3d
Learn more about Jessi's 1:1 Empowering Postpartum Coaching service: https://empoweringpostpartum.com/empoweringpostpartumcoaching/
Connect with Jessi on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empowering_postpartum/
- Empowering Postpartum with Jessi Sletten: Overcoming Postpartum Struggles - My Journey with Anxiety, Depression & Lack of Support (EP 1) In this episode of Empowering Postpartum, host Jessi Sletten candidly shares her personal journey through the challenging postpartum experience after the birth of her first son and the healing and supported experience of her second postpartum. She opens up about struggling with anxiety, depression, trouble breastfeeding, and more – plus how a lack of societal support and feelings of isolation and shame exacerbated her difficulties. Jessi reveals the expectations vs. reality of entering motherhood, even for someone educated in child development and psychology. She emphasizes that the transition into parenthood is a learned process that requires preparation, guidance, and support, rather than simply intuitively ingrained knowledge. With raw honesty and compassion, Jessi shares her empowering story to help end stigma around common new parent struggles. This Emotionally moving episode ultimately sends a message of hope – you are not alone and there is help available. Additional topics covered include: - Coping tactics for postpartum mood disorders - Importance of securing a village of help, especially in Western culture - Steps Jessi took to heal and get medical + therapy support - Her path to eventually finding treatment for postpartum depression and anxiety - Ways new moms can proactively prepare for potential post-birth challenges - How Jessi’s difficult journey inspired her advocacy work supporting new parents Are you ready to feel empowered and supported as you transition into parenthood? Enroll in my postpartum planning program today and get everything you need to prepare for this exciting new chapter in your life. From healing and recovery after birth to caring for your newborn, my program will help you navigate the challenges of postpartum life with confidence and ease. Self-Paced Postpartum Planning Program: https://empoweringpostpartum.com/post... 1:1 Empowering Postpartum Coaching: https://empoweringpostpartum.com/empo... Empowering Postpartum with Jessi Sletten is an inspiring show for expecting and newly postpartum parents looking to feel prepared, supported, and empowered for their transition into parenthood - without losing themselves to it. Education, inspiration, and support for everything you need to know for your fourth trimester!
