A JAMA Pediatrics study published in June of 2025, highlights Paternal mental health as "an important target for prevention and early intervention to support the well-being of fathers and next-generation offspring" It found that “Men are at risk of increased mental distress during the transition to fatherhood." The study highlights PATERNAL DEPRESSION, ANXIETY AND ELEVATED STRESS, and "the importance of supporting fathers if we want to see better outcomes for families.” See the study here: Paternal Perinatal Depression, Anxiety, and Stress and Child Development
In this episode, we talk to Founder of Dads with Wisdom.Adam Angel, a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience working with youth, adults, and families.
Dads With Wisdom seeks to build on men's knowledge, skills and instincts of fatherhood by placing Soon-to-be dads, first-time dads, and experienced dads into FACILITATED support groups to SHARE THEIR EXPERIENCES.
With pregnancy, labor and delivery and new fatherhood, Adam explains how, for some men, the sense of responsibility coupled with the inability to control the situation can lead to feelings of helplessness and sometimes, trauma. This trauma, can lead to anxiety and depression. Adam creates a space to help dads share their feelings and deal with, or avoid these outcomes.
As Adam puts it: "Men want to be the rock, but they need a mountain to support them...and that mountain is other men who understand, validate, and normalize their feelings and concerns."
Terms like paternal postpartum depression and anxiety are real and can have dramatic effects on dads and families. Just like with moms, dads need to hear that they are not alone in these feelings. Human connection in new parenthood can be the key to our progress.
HIGHLIGHTS:
08:55 Structure and Dynamics of Dad Support Groups
13:27 The Emotional Impact of Birth on Dads21:00 Navigating Postpartum Depression in Men
25:50 Lessons for Sons and Rites of Passage
27:50 The Role of Mentors in Parenting
28:52 The Pressure of Parenting and Cultural Shifts
32:31 Co-Parenting Challenges and Realities
Find Adam here: https://www.dadswithwisdom.com/
For therapy: https://www.adamangeltherapy.com/
Adam's PSI Interview: https://postpartum.net/discussing-dads-and-early-parenthood-with-adam-angel-founder-of-dads-with-wisdom/
Dan Singley, Ph.D.: Director of The Center for Men’s Excellence. His research and practice focus on men’s mental health with a particular emphasis on reproductive psychology and the transition to fatherhood. https://www.menexcel.com/
Visit us at Mamistad.com for more info about Mamistad and to learn more about Mamistad groups! As always, if you're a new mom, even if it's not with Mamistad, please find your MAMA TRIBE.
Visit MOM CHAT WITH MAMISTAD for a full list of all episodes.
Thank you - YOU are appreciated! Take care of each other.
Mamistad,
Cynthia
~Women are incredible, Moms are limitless, and a Sisterhood of Moms is a force of nature.
Information on this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical care, to diagnose medical conditions, or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition. We encourage anyone to seek help from a qualified medical professional where issues deem it necessary. No liability is assumed.
Feeding, sleeping, pooping, and playing - these are the the basic functions we expect from our babies and its likely not until we face a problem in these areas that we really think about our little one's musculoskeletal well-being.
We are delighted to chat with Dr. Kristi Hammerle, a Doctor of Physical Therapy and a Certified Breastfeeding Specialist. Dr. Kristi founded Year One Wellness in Austin, TX, focusing on early childhood wellness and personalized care for families and babies from birth through walking.
Year One Wellness was named WINNER OF BEST PEDIATRIC PHYSICAL THERAPISTS in the ATX Best in Birth Awards in 2023 and 2024.Year One Wellness offers physical and occupational therapy services to infants and toddlers facing various challenges, including but not limited to:
Year One Wellness also offers in-person BABY PLAY classes and virtual motor milestone checks for families everywhere.
You can learn more about these services on their website or at mamistad.com.
Find Dr. Kristi and Year One Wellness...
Online: https://www.yearonewellness.com/
On Instagram: @yearonewellness
Visit Mamistad.com for more information about Mamistad and to learn about our groups.
As always, if you're a new mom, even if it's not with Mamistad, please find your MAMA TRIBE.
Visit Mom Chat with Mamistad to:
Thank you for your continued support!
Mamistad,
Cynthia
~Women are incredible, Moms are limitless, and a Sisterhood of Moms is a force of nature.
***Disclaimer: Information on this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical care, to diagnose medical conditions, or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition. We encourage anyone to seek help from a qualified medical professional where issues deem it necessary. No liability is assumed.
I am honored to welcome Dr. Stephanie Hack, OBGYN and mother of 3 beautiful children. She hosts one of my favorite podcasts, The Lady Parts Doctor, where she helps us tackle the hard questions about ourselves and our health in a way that leaves us feeling confident and empowered—not confused, patronized, or dismissed.
With over 20 years of clinical expertise and advocacy, Dr. Hack is a dynamic speaker, entrepreneur, and founder of a groundbreaking women's health educational platform. She's also a trusted media consultant and member of Elle magazine's Beauty Advisory Board.
Her work sparks conversations that drive real change in healthcare, workplaces, and communities. She has also served as commissioner for the D.C. Lactation Commission, trained future physicians, and performed countless life-changing procedures.
In her own words: "My mission is to demystify women's healthcare as much as I can. Through focusing on proper care of our mind, body, and spirit, I want to empower you to make decisions for yourself and feel confident seeking the care you desire."
TODAY SHE SHARES: 5 things your OB won't tell you but you absolutely need to know—and I am HERE for it!
Highlights:
03:51 Dr. Hack's Journey Through Motherhood
10:02 The Importance of Physical Therapy During Pregnancy with reference to:
Mom Chat Ep.17 - Dr. Katie Bayer, PT Tyson's14:48 The Need for Mental Health Support - references:
Dr. Nicole Kumi - Midnight Mama Podcast Ep.8 MATRESCENCE with Megan MacCutcheon, PMH-C18:11 Building a Support System
19:07 The Importance of Support Systems for New Mothers
20:13 The Role of Doulas in Pregnancy and Postpartum - can reduce likelihood of a c-section, can help shorten labor, may lessen need for an operative delivery (incl.vacuum deliveries or forceps deliveries) and lead to fewer reports of dissatisfaction with your pregnancy experience. Reference:
Ep.20 DOULAS CHANGE THE WORLD with Ursula Sabia Sukinik
21:10 Creating a Services Registry for New Moms
23:20 The Significance of a Mom Tribe - See mamistad.com
26:59 Challenges and Realities of Breastfeeding - references:
MOM CHAT Ep.11 BREASTFEEDING GOLD w/Susan Howard, IBCLC
MOM CHAT Ep. 23 Babywearing, Breastfeeding & the Wonders of Skin-to-skin with Laci Tang, IBCLC
Dr. Hack's website: https://ladypartsdoctor.com/
Lady Parts Doctor podcast is on Apple and wherever you listen to podcasts!
Find her on Instagram: @ladypartsdoc
Dr. Hack's Ted Talk: https://youtu.be/I_8hcka1GT0
Visit us at Mamistad.com for more info about Mamistad and to learn more about Mamistad groups! As always, if you're a new mom, even if it's not with Mamistad, please find your MAMA TRIBE.
Visit MOM CHAT WITH MAMISTAD to see a list of all episodes and share your podcast idea!
Thank you - YOU are appreciated! Take care of each other.
Mamistad,
Cynthia
~Women are incredible, Moms are limitless, and a Sisterhood of Moms is a force of nature.
Information on this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical care, to diagnose medical conditions, or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition. We encourage anyone to seek help from a qualified medical professional where issues deem it necessary. No liability is assumed.
In this episode we're joined by Chandler Lipe, Founder & Owner of The Den - a social club for families in Denver unlike any other!
I wanted to chat with Chandler not just because she's an amazing entrepreneur and mother, but because I LOVE the vision and heart behind what she does. Chandler faced two difficult pregnancies and ISOLATION played a major role in both. She transformed that struggle into fuel for her mission to create something better - for other parents.
Her dream? "to provide a supportive and dignified experience for anyone navigating the parenthood journey and searching for something different."
Her preparation? As a phone line operator for Postpartum Support International, Chandler was honored to be welcomed into the lives of hundreds of strangers in need during a hard time in their lives. She was moved to become a better listener. She also became fascinated with the concept of matrescence. ANOTHER COMMON THEME WITH OUR AMAZING GUESTS! She studied with reproductive psychologist and matrescence authority, Aurélie Athan, Ph.D. who teaches that "matrescence, like adolescence, is a stage of human physical, psychological, social & spiritual development."
As Chandler puts it: "The concept of The Den came about as a place to combine the resourcing that Postpartum Support International provides, plus the validation that comes from data and research, plus the community we're all hungry for,
plus a space that's beautiful and uplifting where we can be reminded of our whole selves."
The result? The Den Family Social is a true gathering place for families—a space "lovingly designed for adults and children in equal measure." It features a kid-friendly coffee shop, social play areas, a crafts room, classes, meetups, and so much more.
The Den has become a favorite spot for many of our Mamistad Denver group members. Mamistad is excited to share the inspiring vision of THE DEN and its important message to PARENTS EVERYWHERE:
"When parents are resourced and in community, they have the opportunity to shift their paradigm from meeting requirements, scarcity, and desperation to fulfillment, abundance, and inspiration. When people are in community with each other, they do more than survive—they're invited to thrive."
Visit The Den...
On IG: @thedenfamilysocialWebsite: https://www.thedendenver.com/
Learn more about MATRESCENCE and Reproductive psychologist Aurélie Athan, Ph.D.: https://www.matrescence.com/
More on Texas Coffee School: texascoffeeschool.com/
Visit us at Mamistad.com for more info about Mamistad and to learn more about Mamistad groups!
As always, if you're a new mom, even if it's not with Mamistad, please find your MAMA TRIBE.
Visit MOM CHAT WITH MAMISTAD to:
Share your episode idea
See a list of all episodes
See the episodes that make up our "The Stuff No One Tells You" collection!
Thank you - YOU are appreciated! Take care of each other.
Mamistad,
Cynthia
~Women are incredible, Moms are limitless, and a Sisterhood of Moms is a force of nature.
Information on this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical care, to diagnose medical conditions, or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition. We encourage anyone to seek help from a qualified medical professional where issues deem it necessary. No liability is assumed.
After two decades of connecting first-time pregnant and new mothers through support groups, one truth has become crystal clear: a healthy mama mindset is everything.
That's why I've created the Mamistad Mama Mindset Team (find us at Mamistad.com), and I'm thrilled to introduce our newest team member, Author and Therapist, Becky Morrison Gleed.
As a Certified Perinatal Mental Health Specialist (PMH-C) and Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT), Becky provides dedicated support and practical resources for mothers navigating the challenges of motherhood and the transition back to work.
Becky's journey into perinatal mental health began with her own experience - despite being a licensed therapist, her traumatic first birth led to severe postpartum anxiety and OCD that went undiagnosed due to the lack of perinatal resources at the time. It wasn't until she experienced pregnancy loss years later that she began to find answers.
After the birth of her second daughter, Becky recognized the lack of perinatal resources in both private practice and emergency psychiatric settings. This inspired her to pursue advanced training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs), earning her certification as a Perinatal Mental Health Professional.
Today, she serves mothers and families across 7 states and DC, providing crucial support during the transition to motherhood and return to work.
Becky has authored a comprehensive book series for mothers, available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
In today's conversation, we chat about the unique challenges moms face returning to work. Becky sheds light on how the unrealistic expectations and what she calls an "OUTRAGEOUS mental load" can seriously impact our wellbeing. She encourages us to define our own sense of "enoughness."
With her training in the Gottman Method for couples counseling, Becky also shares valuable insights on partner support and communication.
Her Podcast: Perinatal & Reproductive Perspectives
Her website: perinatalreproductivewellness.com
On Instagram @employedmotherhood
Find her on LinkedIn as Becky Morrison Gleed
*Becky is Level 3 Gottman Trained and subscribes to The Gottman Method for couples counseling.
*For perinatal providers, here is the Perinatal Mental health Screening Consultation website we discussed - Ingram Screening: https://ingramscreening.com/
Visit us at Mamistad.com for more info about Mamistad and to learn more about Mamistad groups! As always, if you're a new mom, even if it's not with Mamistad, please find your MAMA TRIBE.
Visit MOM CHAT WITH MAMISTAD to SEE ALL EPISODES and share your ideas.
Thank you - YOU are appreciated! Take care of each other.
Mamistad,
Cynthia
~Women are incredible, Moms are limitless, and a Sisterhood of Moms is a force of nature.
Information on this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical care, to diagnose medical conditions, or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition. We encourage anyone to seek help from a qualified medical professional where issues deem it necessary. No liability is assumed.
Perinatal trauma is more common than we realize, and when ignored, it can have a profound effect on our lives as mothers and consequently, on our families.
We welcome Licensed & Certified Trauma and Perinatal Mental Health Therapist,Sultana Karim to discuss trauma and other perinatal struggles. She's a powerhouse who has created a passion out of her pain.
As a mother herself, Sultana struggled in pregnancy with anxiety and depression and then in postpartum after experiencing birth trauma and a NICU stay for her baby. She has also experienced pregnancy loss and is a survivor of childhood trauma.
Sultana has advanced training and extensive experience in trauma, domestic violence, sexual trauma, infertility counseling, perinatal mental health, perinatal loss, abortion mental health support, attachment & childhood trauma. She's the Owner & Perinatal and Trauma Therapist at Karim Counseling Services, PLLC.
Sultana is not only a therapist, she's living proof that good therapy can heal many wounds.
Highlights:
01:29 Understanding Trauma and Therapy
05:22 Postpartum Challenges and Support1
6:53 The Importance of Cultural Understanding in Therapy
20:07 Addressing Perinatal Loss
23:04 Understanding Miscarriage and Emotional Healing
23:39 The Importance of Seeking Support
25:44 Challenges of Parenting with a Partner in Law Enforcement and Military
28:06 Coping Strategies and Therapy
32:02 The Role of Self-Care in Parenting
33:27 Creating a Supportive Village
39:45 Specialized Services for Moms
Sultana was a client of, and highly recommends Premier Birth Center in Chantilly, VA. :)
Contact Sultana:
Sultana Karim, M.A., LCPC, LPC, CCTP, PMH-COwner/Psychotherapist
Karim Counseling Services, PLLC
w: karimcounseling.org
e: skarim@karimcounseling.org
-Offering a Free Monthly Virtual Perinatal Loss Support Group on the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 12pm (for mothers who had miscarriage(s), TMFR, & still birth)- to register: email me or visit my contact page here: www.karimcounseling.org/contact/ -Offering a Virtual Perinatal DBT group for overwhelmed and exhausted pregnant and postpartum moms - up to 5 years postpartum- starting 9/18/25 from 7pm-8:30pm, register here: www.karimcounseling.org/group-therapy-for-moms/ -Fast Healing, Lasting Change with EMDR Therapy Intensives: a powerful mind-body therapt that accelerates healing, processes trauma faster, and helps you feel like yourself again. Specialized in process traumatic birth or grief, & past trauma that impacts your parenting; more on my website at www.karimcounseling.org/emdr-intensives/
Visit us at Mamistad.com for more info about Mamistad and to learn more about Mamistad groups! As always, if you're a new mom, even if it's not with Mamistad, please find your MAMA TRIBE.
Visit MOM CHAT WITH MAMISTAD to:
Thank you - YOU are appreciated! Take care of each other.
Mamistad,
Cynthia
~Women are incredible, Moms are limitless, and a Sisterhood of Moms is a force of nature.
Information on this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical care, to diagnose medical conditions, or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition. We encourage anyone to seek help from a qualified medical professional where issues deem it necessary. No liability is assumed.
MOM RAGE!!! It's always been a thing – even when we didn't talk about it, bc it meant we were a bad mom who had no self-control and clearly didn't love our kids or our family for that matter.
The good news is...not only have we named it, we've finally started to normalize it! Our dear friend Megan MacCutcheon, PMHC and co-founder of Be Hive Wellness, is here to change the way we look at Mom Rage.
Megan enlightens us through her own lived experience and She shares tools, insights, and more than anything, reassurance that we are NOT ALONE!
For many (if not all) of us, mom rage is part of the reality of being a mom. Once we acknowledge it, we have ways to deal with it and let the same and guilt go before they become part of our lifelong motherhood journey and steal our precious motherhood JOY!
This episode will leave you feeling seen and relieved that not only is it more common than you think, mom rage can be dealt with and in the process, might even help us in teaching our children about emotions, accountability and healing.
Some highlights by the minute...
01:22 Discussing Mom Rage: A Common Struggle
05:51 The Importance of Acknowledging and Repairing
10:57 Factors Contributing to Mom Rage
14:50 Managing Mom Rage: Tools and Strategies
15:50 The Role of Self-Compassion and Community Support
21:05 Understanding Internal Dialogue and Self-Doubt
26:14 Recognizing and Treating Perinatal Mood Disorders (PMADs)
36:37 Flexible Therapy Options for Moms
More on Megan...
Ep.8 MATRESCENCE with Megan MacCutcheon On Spotify
The blog article she referenced: https://www.meganmaccutcheon.com/blog/beltmeltdown
Downloadable freebie she referenced:
https://www.meganmaccutcheon.com/momstoolkit
Nicole McNelis - Megan referenced her work with Mom Rage: https://nicolemcnelis.com/
For anyone wanting to dive deeper into mom rage:https://www.meganmaccutcheon.com/offers/F452XAzv/checkout
Megan's Websites:
https://www.meganmaccutcheon.com/https://bewell-wellness.com/https://behivewellness.com/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/meganmaccutcheonpmhchttps://www.instagram.com/bewell__wellnesshttps://www.instagram.com/behivewellness
Visit us at Mamistad.com for more info about Mamistad and to learn more about Mamistad groups! As always, if you're a new mom, even if it's not with Mamistad, please find your MAMA TRIBE.
Visit MOM CHAT WITH MAMISTAD to:
Take care of each other!
Mamistad,
Cynthia
~Women are incredible, Moms are limitless, and a Sisterhood of Moms is a force of nature.
Information on this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical care, to diagnose medical conditions, or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition. We encourage anyone to seek help from a qualified medical professional where issues deem it necessary. No liability is assumed.
In today's episode, we learn that hormones and pregnancy can be fun - when you discuss them with the most entertaining board-certified OBGYN and truthteller I know, Dr. Shweta Patel.
We discuss her books The Book of Hormones , The Book of Pregnancy and soon, The Book of Down Under. They are part of what will be a collection of 4 books she calls The Book Of Her: Series on Women's Health And Wellness.
Dr. Patel was commissioned into the US Navy and served for 13 years as a medical officer. She then moved to Florida and where she provided obstetrical and gynecological care in person, until the pandemic inspired her to create Gaya Wellness-a platform that provides women with virtually comprehensive and convenient healthcare and wellness.
Today, Dr. Patel will help us better understand the role of hormones in our pregnancies, as well as the the lovely symptoms they can cause. We'll also touch on the importance of nutrition and sleep and their impact on our hormonal health whether we're pregnant or not.
Connect with Dr. Patel at: https://gayawellness.org/
and on Instagram: @gaya_wellness
Her books are available on Amazon: The Book Of Her: Series on Women's Health And Wellness
The Book Of Hormones: The Ultimate Playbook For Women's Health And Hormonal Balance Through Every Stage Of Life (The Book Of Her: Series on Women's Health And Wellness) (November 30, 2024)
It's phenomenal! ~Mamistad :)
Visit us at Mamistad.com for more info about Mamistad and to learn more about Mamistad groups! As always, if you're a new mom, even if it's not with Mamistad, please find your MAMA TRIBE.
Visit MOM CHAT WITH MAMISTAD to:
Share your episode idea
See a list of all episodes
See the episodes that make up our "The Stuff No One Tells You" collection!
Thank you - YOU are appreciated!
Take care of each other.
Mamistad,
Cynthia
~Women are incredible, Moms are limitless, and a Sisterhood of Moms is a force of nature.
Information on this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical care, to diagnose medical conditions, or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition. We encourage anyone to seek help from a qualified medical professional where issues deem it necessary. No liability is assumed.
In honor of Mother's Day this episode celebrates the beauty of motherhood in all its forms. It also honors those moms who have left this earth, and those of us who revere and cherish them. Gia lost her mom only a few months prior to this recording, and my own precious mom battled Alzheimer's from 2004 to 2012.
If you have a mom, if you have a child, if you nurture and love a child, we celebrate you!
My guest today is my dear friend of nineteen years, Gia Mariam Hasan. Mariam is an integrative wellness coach, facilitator, and clinical and functional nutritionist. She is a trained mindfulness meditation teacher and stress and resilience coach. She was born in the UK and later lived and worked in the Middle East as a reporter and in refugee camps.
I met Gia when she joined Mamistad in 2007. We were instantly connected. Gia was like a missing piece in my life's puzzle. She was (and still is) beautiful and wise beyond her years. I know now that her mom plays a huge role in that.
Over the years, we lost touch for a while, though she always remained an inspiration for me. Gia and I recently reconnected when I learned that her precious mother, Selma, had passed away last December. My heart broke for her. I remember how connected she's always been to her mother. I reached out and we picked up where we left off. This time though, we're both navigating motherhood without the earthly guidance of our incredible mothers. After an eight-year journey with Alzheimer's my own mom defeated it and departed this earth in 2012.
I asked Gia to join me for this special episode to honor her mom, as I honor mine. I knew she would bring her usual grace, beauty and love to the discussion, and she did not disappoint.
Visit us at Mamistad.com for more info about Mamistad and to learn more about Mamistad groups! As always, if you're a new mom, even if it's not with Mamistad, please find your MAMA TRIBE.
Visit MOM CHAT WITH MAMISTAD to:
Share your episode ideaSee a list of all episodesSee the episodes that make up our "The Stuff No One Tells You" collection!
Thank you - YOU are appreciated! Take care of each other.
Mamistad,Cynthia
~Women are incredible, Moms are limitless, and a Sisterhood of Moms is a force of nature.
Information on this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical care, to diagnose medical conditions, or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition. We encourage anyone to seek help from a qualified medical professional where issues deem it necessary. No liability is assumed.
How you choose to deliver your baby should absolutely be your decision and based on your pregnancy and personal needs.
In this episode, we explore the option of midwifery with Hilary Biesecker, Certified Nurse Midwife, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse & Founder Loudoun Homebirth & Healthcare.
Hilary began her path to midwifery in 1999 as a certified doula. She then earned an undergraduate nursing degree and practiced as a L&D nurse while earning her graduate degree in Nursing -midwifery. She has attended more than 600 births and has naturally birthed her own four children - the final two as she says, "into the loving hands of midwives".
Hiliary believes in helping parents learn about their options while respecting their decisions so that everybody in the delivery room is on the same page.She feels every woman deserves to feel supported, respected and heard during her pregnancy, delivery and postpartum.
Timestamps to our topics:
00:00 Introduction to Mamistad and Mom Chat
00:40 Exploring Midwifery with Hillary Beker
02:06 Hillary Beker's Journey to Midwifery
03:06 The Importance of Natural Birth
07:16 Challenges and Realities of Hospital Births
09:21 Empowering Women Through Informed Choices
14:51 Historical Context and Midwifery's Role
25:48 Personal Stories and Family Experiences
28:42 Home Birth Journey Begins
29:34 Discovering Midwifery
30:30 Advocating for Home Birth
32:17 Midwifery in Different Cultures
33:00 The Role of Black Midwives
34:11 Becoming a Midwife
36:03 Midwifery Practice and Philosophy
45:29 Supporting Mothers Post-Birth
49:02 Home Birth Transfers
52:05 Resources and Support for Mothers
53:23 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
You can find Hilary at Loudoun Homebirth & Healthcare and The Body, Birth, and Baby Center.
The famous Ina May Gaskin, author of countless books on midwifery and childbirth who is known as the “mother of authentic midwifery.” once said:Whenever and however you give birth, your experience will impact your emotions, your mind, your body, and your spirit for the rest of your life.
Find more on her here: https://www.womenofthehall.org/inductee/ina-may-gaskin/
Visit us at Mamistad.com for more info about Mamistad and to learn more about Mamistad groups! As always, if you're a new mom, even if it's not with Mamistad, please find your MAMA TRIBE.
Visit MOM CHAT WITH MAMISTAD to:
Share your episode idea
See a list of all episodes
See the episodes that make up our "The Stuff No One Tells You" collection!
Thank you - YOU are appreciated!
Take care of each other. Mamistad,
Cynthia
~Women are incredible, Moms are limitless, and a Sisterhood of Moms is a force of nature.
Information on this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical care, to diagnose medical conditions, or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition. We encourage anyone to seek help from a qualified medical professional where issues deem it necessary. No liability is assumed.
#BMHW25
In this episode, we spotlight Black Maternal Health Week. Held annually on April 11-17th, BMHW is a week-long campaign founded and led by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance to build awareness, activism, and community-building to amplify the voices, perspectives and lived experiences of Black Mamas and birthing people.
We also welcome back our dear friend, Samantha Griffin .She's an amazing doula and founder of DC Metro Maternity, a group of black women who are incredibly passionate about providing professional doula support to women of color and their partners.
It is shameful that in 2025, our black sisters are still embarking on their new motherhood experiences with a horrible statistic looming over their heads. Black women are dying at a rate nearly 3.5 times higher during and after childbirth. Samantha helps us understand some of the outdated but still prevalent reasons for this statistic.
According to the AMA, “racial essentialism" is a decades-old belief that races are biologically distinct groups determined by genes AND HAS NO scientific basis - yet, it lingers, along with many other racist ideas, in U.S. health policies and clinical practices. Along with racism in medicine, the belief has perpetuated generations of harm.
We discuss the concept of RACE MEDICINE: which uses race as a biological variable in healthcare, and can perpetuate inequities and biases.
Dr. Dorothy Roberts (a social justice advocate and law professor at the University of Pennsylvania) states: race medicine is bad medicine. It's poor science, and it's a false interpretation of humanity. It is more urgent than ever to finally abandon this backward legacy to affirm our common humanity by ending the social inequalities that truly divide us.
The GOAL: "Race-conscious medicine" where race is no longer relied on as a biological determinant, but where structural racism's impact on health is acknowledged.and ultimately, better healthcare exists for all, but especially black mothers, - because black mothers should NOT have to add fear for their lives to the many concerns all new moms face.
Black Maternal Health Week/Black Mamas Matter: https://blackmamasmatter.org/bmhw25/
Samantha Griffin's website: https://dcmetromaternity.com/
Samantha on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/dcmetromaternity/
Race Medicine:
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/news/articles/2025/02/race-is-not-biology
She has authored and co-edited ten books, including the award-winning Killing the Black Body and Shattered Bonds. Her latest book is Fatal Invention: How Science, Politics, and Big Business Re-create Race in the Twenty-First Century.
birthFUND: https://www.thebirthfund.com/
Midwifery care provider parntered with birthFUND: The Victoria Project - https://www.the-victoria-project.com/
Visit us at Mamistad.com for more info about Mamistad and to learn more about Mamistad groups! As always, if you're a new mom, even if it's not with Mamistad, please find your MAMA TRIBE.
Visit MOM CHAT WITH MAMISTAD to:
Share your episode idea
See a list of all episodes
See the episodes that make up our "The Stuff No One Tells You" collection!
Thank you - YOU are appreciated! Take care of each other. Mamistad,
Cynthia
~Women are incredible, Moms are limitless, and a Sisterhood of Moms is a force of nature.
Information on this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical care, to diagnose medical conditions, or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition. We encourage anyone to seek help from a qualified medical professional where issues deem it necessary. No liability is assumed.
Our esteemed guest, Denise Stern, is a mother of three and Founder and CEO of Let Mommy Sleep - a nationally acclaimed company that offers a simple service: nurturing, overnight care to newborns and evidence-based education to their parents.
Let Mommy Sleep has become the country’s leading Baby Nurse and Postpartum Care service by building and maintaining a team of newborn care experts, baby nurses (RN/LPN) and postpartum doulas across the US. They support families with single babies, twins & triplets with services including:
Denise is also an advocate for working families on the national stage, working with expecting parents, families with small children, and mothers transitioning back into the workplace after childbirth.
Let Mommy Sleep is the country's only newborn care franchise and their non-profit, Mission Sleep, provides free care to military and first responder families whose babies arrive when a partner is deployed, wounded or deceased.
Denise continues to be a sought after contributor to local and national media appearing on such outlets as NPR, What to Expect, Care.com, The Associated Press and the Washington Post and now, Mom Chat! :)
In this episode, Denise shares why she believes whole-heartedly in her work that was born out of her own life experiences. She has some wise words for us about the importance of support during the critical newborn period. Times have changed and we owe it to ourselves to change the way we look at newborn care.
Just Googling Denise Stern will bring up TONS about her and if you want to learn more about her services, find everything you need at:
Visit us at Mamistad.com for more info about Mamistad and to learn more about Mamistad groups! As always, if you're a new mom, even if it's not with Mamistad, please find your MAMA TRIBE.
Visit MOM CHAT WITH MAMISTAD to:
Share your episode idea
See a list of all episodes
See the episodes that make up our "The Stuff No One Tells You" collection!
Thank you - YOU are appreciated! Take care of each other.
Mamistad,
Cynthia
~Women are incredible, Moms are limitless, and a Sisterhood of Moms is a force of nature.
*Information on this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical care, to diagnose medical conditions, or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition. We encourage anyone to seek help from a qualified medical professional where issues deem it necessary. No liability is assumed.
This episodes teaches us why CONNECTION IS KEY. When you feel understood, when you feel seen by someone else, your cortisol levels start to lower, our brain starts to regulate and we become more grounded and able to cope again! This works in all other areas of your life - so, DEFINITELY TRY THIS AT HOME.Today we welcome licensed professional counselor, Lauren Geriak. Lauren owns Geriak Psychotherapy, a private practice in McLean, VA. She specializes in educating parents on emotional regulation and is incredibly passionate about normalizing the struggles of parenthood and helping parents find the joy of connecting with their kiddos at every age.
Her own motherhood journey was isolating and lonely and she shares openly and honestly, the struggles she had with anxiety and rage after the birth of her first baby.
Little did I know this episode would become such a great pitch for Mamistad Groups! Lauren helps us understand exactly why our groups are so important for us as new moms and how they really can help us navigate the newness of motherhood.
Minute by minute
00:57 Lauren's Mom Journey
02:36 Challenges of Early Motherhood
05:16 Struggles with Postpartum Depression
13:39 The Importance of Support Groups
24:36 Creating Meaningful Connections
25:06 Mindset and Group Dynamics
27:33 The Role of Therapists and Medication
29:59 Parenting Challenges and Strategies
36:52 Repairing Relationships with Children
42:14 The Power of Connection
You can reach Lauren via email: lauren@geriakpsych.comOr find her on our Mamistad Favorites Page.
Visit us at Mamistad.com for more info about Mamistad and to learn more about Mamistad groups! As always, if you're a new mom, even if it's not with Mamistad, please find your MAMA TRIBE.
Visit MOM CHAT WITH MAMISTAD to:
-See a list of all episodes-Share your episode idea
-See the episodes that make up our "The Stuff No One Tells You" collection!
Please don't forget to follow and rate Mom Chat so we can reach more moms and families out there! Thank you - YOU are appreciated!
Mamistad,
Cynthia
~Women are incredible, Moms are limitless, and a Sisterhood of Moms is a force of nature.
Information on this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical care, to diagnose medical conditions, or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition. We encourage anyone to seek help from a qualified medical professional where issues deem it necessary. No liability is assumed.
Today's guest is the fabulous Tiffany Green, Founder & Owner, of Nounou Nanny. Childcare has always been her gift and passion. She started babysitting at age 15, and became a professional nanny while in college and continued through grad school. Though she felt compelled to go the corporate route, her heart kept pulling her back to her work as a nanny.
When Tiffany met the love of her life, she knew he had 4 children from a previous marriage. When she and their father decided to marry, she knew that these great kids already had a strong foundation with both of their biological parents, and she had not envisioned herself having a biological child. So when she learned she was pregnant, in her own words, she was shocked and not exactly excited.
After Tiffany's son Jack was born, she encountered a whole new world as a mother, with a depth of emotions and realizations she never anticipated. She shares with us the joys and struggles of welcoming her baby into her large blended family and the lessons she's learning about herself and her own need for space and self-care.
Learn more about NouNouNanny and Tiffany here: https://www.nounou-nanny.com/
Follow NouNou Nanny on Instagram: @nounou_nanny.
Since 2005 Mamistad has been connecting first-time pregnant and new moms with their mama tribes to help navigate what I feel is the most unsung time in many of our lives - pregnancy and new motherhood. Mom Chat is where we share some of the stories and lessons we're learning along the way.
Visit us at Mamistad.com for more info about Mamistad and to learn more about Mamistad groups! As always, if you're a new mom, even if it's not with Mamistad, please find your MAMA TRIBE.
Visit MOM CHAT WITH MAMISTAD to:
See a list of all episodes
Share your episode ideaSee the episodes that make up our "The Stuff No One Tells You" collection!
Thank you - YOU are appreciated! Take care of each other.
Mamistad,
Cynthia
~Women are incredible, Moms are limitless, and a Sisterhood of Moms is a force of nature.
Information on this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical care, to diagnose medical conditions, or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition. We encourage anyone to seek help from a qualified medical professional where issues deem it necessary. No liability is assumed.
At long last, we're doing an episode for everyone who cares about and wants to support, new parents!
Please share this episode with your friends and family knowing that the things we discuss are important and if dealt with beforehand and with understanding and love, can change a new family's introduction into the world of parenting.
I'm joined once again by the always amazing Ursula Sabia Sukinik who, as CEO of Birth You Desire and a doula who has attended over 1500 births, has worked with tons of new families and quickly become our resident expert in all things labor, delivery and postpartum. If that wasn't enough, she recently EARNED one of her most meaningful titles yet, GRANDMOTHER. She'll share keen insights she's gained and offer invaluable advice to all of our beloved grandparents out there.
Ursula reminds new parents that as individuals, they have to pick and choose what is important culturally, what is important scientifically, and most importantly, what feels best for them right now.
This podcast is to help those parents who simply want to have the freedom to make decisions based on their priorities with respect to the way they welcome their new baby home and begin their lifelong journey as a family.
None of us makes perfect choices all the time, and THEY ARE entitled to change their minds during this delicate time - but for those of us who love them, we want to work with, and empower them, as they set the foundation for the rest of their lives. We want to offer our wisdom with grace while remembering, it's NOT ABOUT US.
We're not looking for the perfect plan, we're looking fora plan that works.
We'll discuss:
Find Birth You Desire on Mamistad HERE and Ursula's class on Mamistad.com HERE or at https://birthyoudesire.com/
Ursula's recommended links:
https://birthyoudesire.com/reduce-postpartum-stress/
https://birthyoudesire.com/5-important-health-practices-postpartum/
https://birthyoudesire.com/handling-stress-in-pregnancy-and-postpartum/
Mentioned in the podcast:
NEOWELL: we provide comprehensive support for families at every stage of their journey, from high-risk pregnancy to life after the NICU. Wherever you are in your journey, NEOwell is here to help.
The First Forty Days: After labor, it’s time for rest: A gentle guide to zuo yuezi, the ancient Chinese practice of postpartum self-care, including sixty simple recipes.
Visit us at Mamistad.com for more info about Mamistad and to learn more about Mamistad groups! As always, if you're a new mom, even if it's not with Mamistad, please find your MAMA TRIBE.
Visit MOM CHAT WITH MAMISTAD to:
*Share your episode idea *See a list of all episodes *See the episodes that make up our "The Stuff No One Tells You" collection!
Thank you - YOU are appreciated! Take care of each other.
Mamistad,
Cynthia Tinajero, CNPE
~Women are incredible, Moms are limitless, and a Sisterhood of Moms is a force of nature.
*Information on this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical care, to diagnose medical conditions, or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition. We encourage anyone to seek help from a qualified medical professional where issues deem it necessary. No liability is assumed.
In this episode our awesome doula friend, Ursula Sabia Sukinik is here to enlighten us on some of the STUFF NO ONE TELLS US about the first few days and weeks postpartum - not our babies, OUR SELVES!
Most of us are naturally still in awe...or shock...or both, at the thought of having given birth to another human being who we will forever be in love with, responsible for, etc... but we can be blindsided by some of the things going on with us! You know, the dramatic hormone shifts, massive physical recovery (sometimes from major surgery if you had a c-section), the weird physical processes like lactating, bleeding, swelling, sweating and so much more - all happening while we're sleepier than we've ever been before!
Share this episode with your partners and anyone who will be by your side during those first days and weeks so that they'll be aware of some of the pospartum possibilities too.
Imagine being able to say: "I heard about this..." instead of "why on earth did no one tell me this...???"
Ursula and I do our best to cover a lot of these topics pretty quickly so buckle up and get ready to burst postpartum wide open!
Other Mom Chat Episodes mentioned in this podcast:
Ep. 8: The Matrescence Episode
Ep. 18 or 20: A Doula Episode
Ep. 11 ro 23: A Breastfeeding Episode
Ep. 17: The Pelvic Floor Episode Ursula Sabia Sukinik, CD, CDT, CMA, CBE, CLC, is the CEO and Founder of Birth You Desire, which has been offering Doula Services and Birth Classes in the DC Metro Area and Phoenix, AZ
Her website: https://birthyoudesire.com/
Negative Thinking: When to Ask for Help (Blog Ursula mentioned): https://birthyoudesire.com/?s=negative+thinking
On Social: @birthyoudesire
Ursula is now part of the Mami Circle and you can learn more about Ursula's Mamistad Class here: https://www.mamistad.com/mamistaddoula-ledclasses
Visit us at Mamistad.com for more info about Mamistad and to learn more about Mamistad groups! As always, if you're a new mom, even if it's not with Mamistad, please find your MAMA TRIBE.
Visit MOM CHAT WITH MAMISTAD to:
Share your episode idea
See a list of all episodes
See the episodes that make up our "The Stuff No One Tells You" collection!
Thank you - YOU are appreciated! Take care of each other.
Mamistad,
Cynthia
~Women are incredible, Moms are limitless, and a Sisterhood of Moms is a force of nature.
Information on this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical care, to diagnose medical conditions, or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition. We encourage anyone to seek help from a qualified medical professional where issues deem it necessary. No liability is assumed.
Welcome to Mom Chat!
Since 2005 Mamistad has been connecting first-time pregnant and new moms with their mama tribes to help navigate what I feel is the most unsung time in many of our lives - pregnancy and new motherhood. Mom Chat is where we share some of the stories and lessons we're learning along the way. Please rate and subscribe to our podcast so we can keep reaching more parents out there!
This episode's guest is International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (I BCLC), Laci Tang. Although, it's not only about breastfeeding!
Lacy has been working with infants and supporting new families since 2015. She began her career as a certified postpartum doula and certified babywearing educator and quickly discovered that a large portion of her time spent with families was on breastfeeding support. This led her to pursue her certification as an IBCLC. And a Bachelor of Science degree in child maternal health.
Some of the issues Laci dealt with when feeding her own children were low milk supply, painful latch, tongue/lip tie, mastitis, thrush, pumping, returning to work, oversupply with her second child, tandem feeding and postpartum depression and anxiety. Now, she's here to help other moms who are facing the same challenges or maybe to help them avoid these challenges. We'll talk about:
Laci's website: https://www.milkinmotion.co/
Laci on Mamistad.com (her future class offerings will be listed here): https://www.mamistad.com/lactationclasses
Laci's office can be found at Be Hive Wellness in Tyson's VA. We love our Be Hive Wellness!
Visit us at Mamistad.com for more info about Mamistad and to learn more about Mamistad groups!
As always, if you're a new mom, even if it's not with Mamistad, please find your MAMA TRIBE.
Visit MOM CHAT WITH MAMISTAD to:
Take care of each other.
Mamistad,
Cynthia
~Women are incredible, Moms are limitless, and a Sisterhood of Moms is a force of nature.
Information on this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical care, to diagnose medical conditions, or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition. We encourage anyone to seek help from a qualified medical professional where issues deem it necessary. No liability is assumed.
This is a quick holiday reminder that it's okay to take the good with the bad during the holidays. Whether you're full of cheer or not, give yourself a break - especially if you're a new parent. There are new traditions coming your way with your own family and sometimes it can cause some dissonance - that's normal when big changes happen right? Keep moving forward and embrace the birth of your new life, as a parent.
Happy Holidays to everyone...
and Mamistad!
Cynthia
~Women are incredible, Moms are limitless and a Sisterhood of Moms is s force of nature.
If you're pregnant with your first (or even second) baby or you have a new baby, find your own Mama tribe by visiting Mamistad.com!
NOTICE: We discuss some heavy issues in this episode so I have AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE FOR all of our pregnant Mamas who choose to listen: We hope that you all have smooth pregnancy, labor & delivery and postpartum experiences. This DOES happen! We also know that pregnant and new moms can go through a variety of situations, the outcome of which can vary widely based on each individual mama. Our goal in this podcast is to discuss the effects of previous trauma, mainly sexual trauma, on pregnant women - and how you can begin to mentally prepare for labor and delivery, and caring for a newborn.This podcast is NOT intended to be taken as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider to determine what is appropriate for your particular situation, and to clarify any questions about your care plan. You are responsible for making informed and educated decisions that are right for you and your family.
In this episode, we get the best of two worlds! We're chatting with Jennifer Byrnes who is both a Mamistad Mom AND a Licensed Professional Counselor in the Perinatal Mental Health world!
Jennifer joined Mamistad back in 2016 and is a member of Mamistad 131!! Their littles are now 7 years old and many of them, including Jennifer, have gone on to have more kiddos! Jen also has a 2yo son!
Jennifer was a forensic therapist until she experienced trauma with the birth of her oldest son. She then shifted her therapeutic practice to perinatal mental health with an emphasis on birth trauma healing, because she wanted to help moms heal from and avoid experiences like the ones she had. Jennifer shares some important coping mechanisms and...
HER 5 TENANTS of GOOD MENTAL HEALTH:
1) Sleep - at least 5 hours
2) Hydration
3) Movement
4) Support System
5) An After Birth Plan
You can find Jennifer Speed Byrnes, LPC, PMH-C at: https://www.mytherapygoals.com/
Her office is in Vienna, VA 22180
Jennifer Byrnes will be offering special Mama Mindset Classes for Mamistad Mamas! Stay tuned!
Visit us at Mamistad.com for more info about Mamistad and to learn more about Mamistad groups! As always, if you're a new mom, even if it's not with Mamistad, please find your MAMA TRIBE.
Visit MOM CHAT WITH MAMISTAD to:
*Please don't forget to rate the Mom Chat Podcast so we can be seen by more mamas! Thank you - YOU are appreciated!
Take care of each other! Mamistad,
Cynthia
~Women are incredible, Moms are limitless, and a Sisterhood of Moms is a force of nature.
Information on this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical care, to diagnose medical conditions, or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition. We encourage anyone to seek help from a qualified medical professional where issues deem it necessary. No liability is assumed.
Please don't forget to rate our podcast to help us reach more listeners!
Meet Ursula Sabia Sukinik, CD, CDT, CMA, CBE, CLC. She is the CEO and Founder of Birth You Desire, which has been offering Doula Services and Birth Classes in the DC Metro Area and Phoenix, AZ. since 1999.Learn how cervical cancer set her on the path to becoming not only a mother of two and a CEO of an award-winning Doula Service, but also an empathetic and compassionate supporter of birthing people all over the world. We discuss how the efficiency of modern labor and delivery methods can leave the mom feeling empty and sometimes even traumatized, and how a doula can help fill the gaps between you and your provider, and sometimes even your own partner and family!
We talk about:
Ursula is now part of the Mami Circle and we're working to bring her amazing services to Mamistad Members! You can find her here:
Her website: https://birthyoudesire.com/
On Social: @birthyoudesire
Visit us at Mamistad.com for more info about Mamistad and to learn more about Mamistad groups! As always, if you're a new mom, even if it's not with Mamistad, please find your MAMA TRIBE.
If you're a Mamistad Mom and want to be a guest on MOM CHAT, you know where to find me! Not in Mamistad but have an idea? Let's Chat!
Take care of each other! Mamistad,
Cynthia
~Women are incredible, Moms are limitless, and a Sisterhood of Moms is a force of nature.
Information on this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical care, to diagnose medical conditions, or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition. We encourage anyone to seek help from a qualified medical professional where issues deem it necessary. No liability is assumed.
