Should parents play with their children? Or should children only play independently? Independent Play is such a polarizing topic! That’s why this week, Rachael and Lizzie Assa, founder of the Workspace for Children, talk all about the importance of play for children and how parents can foster the desire for a healthy balance between playing with children and encouraging independent play. Here’s what they discuss inside this helpful episode: the benefits of independent play, starting from birth! HOW to begin fostering independent play skills the latest debate on social media: Should we play with our kids or not!? practical strategies for parents to create a conducive environment for play independent play is not about specific toys or aesthetics, but about understanding and connecting with each child's unique personality and interests the fear and guilt that parents can feel when their children are playing independently how parents can reduce “I’m bored!” pushback and avoid burnout Tips for using independent play to have a “quiet time” once your child stops napping And so much more! Lizzie is the founder of The Workspace for Children, and has become a go-to strategist for parents seeking guidance in fostering independent play for their children. With a Master’s in early childhood education and a passion for simplicity and consistency in play, she offers practical solutions to avoid burnout and promote healthy development. Lizzie's insights have been featured on The Good Inside Podcast, Parent's Magazine, NY Times Parenting, Time, and The Wall Street Journal. She is set to release her forthcoming book, "But I'm Bored!": The Complete Guide to Independent Play for Kids Ages 1-8, which promises to revolutionize the way parents approach their children's playtime. Mentioned in this episode: Lizzie’s Audio Course and Companion Workbook: ⁠https://twfc.kartra.com/page/sales⁠ Lizzie’s Instagram: ⁠@theworkspaceforchildren⁠ Lizzie’s website: ⁠https://www.workspaceforchildren.com/⁠ If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit⁠ heysleepybaby.com⁠ and follow⁠ @heysleepybaby⁠ on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of⁠ Hey, Sleepy Baby⁠, and the host of this podcast. ⁠Instagram⁠ |⁠ Tiktok⁠ | ⁠ Website⁠  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week we're speaking with with Elise Disher, M. Ed all about choosing the right daycare and how to transition your child in as seamlessly as possible. Childcare is such an important topic for parents and we know it can be fraught with worry! Here's what Rachael and Elise discuss inside the episode: Why building relationships and attachment with staff is crucial during the transition into daycare or preschool The benefits of a tailored and gradual approach to separation vs. "drop and go" How parents can advocate for more involvement in the early learning environment and create familiarity for their child Do children actually need daycare or preschool for socialization or social skills development in the first three years? Quality early learning environments- what should they be prioritizing and what should parents look for and ask about when touring? What parents should be focusing on during challenging behaviors and much more! Elise's work is all about promoting relationship-focused, attachment-based practices in early childhood settings. She consults with educators to help them implement these approaches and facilitate the Circle of Security program for both educators and families. She also supports families through key transitions into early childhood settings and provides guidance on navigating behavioral challenges. She is a mom to two little ones, aged 5 and 1, and brings over 18 years of experience working in the early childhood profession as an educator, teacher, director, and consultant. She holds a Master of Education and is a certified Circle of Security facilitator as well as a holistic sleep and wellbeing coach. Her goal is to help build strong, secure connections between children and the adults in their lives, offering the support needed to thrive through the many stages of early childhood. Mentioned in this episode: Elise's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elisedisher.ed/?hl=en Elise’s Courses: Supporting and advocating for a quality orientation support package  Masterclass - The brain behind behaviour- Understanding and responding to emotions and behaviours effectively  Circle of Security Parent Interest Form Website umeplay.com.au Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 100: Behind the Mic (and the Madness): A Candid Q&A with Rachael & Marley In this very special 100th episode of No One Told Us, Rachael is joined by her most frequent (and most requested) guest, her husband, Marley —for an unfiltered, hilarious, and heartfelt conversation about parenting, partnership, and what it really looks like behind the scenes. They answer listener-submitted questions about co-sleeping, division of labor, marital rough patches, and their decision to have a third child…all while laughing at their own mess and sharing what’s worked (and what definitely hasn’t). Together, they reflect on two years of podcasting, three kids, and how they’ve kept their connection strong (mostly) through the chaos. From the car clutter to the minivan love, and from toddler sleep to dad burnout, nothing is off-limits in this honest, relatable milestone episode. Inside this episode: Why they stopped at three kids and how they knew their family was complete How co-sleeping (with boundaries) worked for them The impact of COVID and postpartum depression on their marriage after baby #2 Why they don’t miss the newborn stage (and also kind of do!) Their very different views on asking for help and involving family Navigating burnout as a stay-at-home parent Pet peeves (yes, they go there) How they handle conflict, chores, and discipline as a team Their take on gentle parenting and when it gets hard Thoughts on intimacy, evenings alone, and rediscovering connection Tips for prepping kids for babysitters, weddings, and overnights away Mentioned in this episode: Episode 86: Reimagining Boyhood with Ruth Whippman Episode 5: How Your Relationship Changes After a Baby with Rachael & Marley Episode 44: Q&A with Rachael and her husband, Marley If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Marley is a LCMSW and current Stay at Home Dad (not a HSB employee!) Instagram | Tiktok |  Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 99: Inside the Mother Brain: How Parenthood Rewires Us with Chelsea Conaboy In this episode, Rachael sits down with journalist and author Chelsea Conaboy to explore what really happens to the brain during pregnancy and postpartum. Drawing from her groundbreaking book Mother Brain, Chelsea unpacks the myth of maternal instinct and shares what neuroscience is revealing about the profound brain changes that take place when we become parents. Together, they dive into the emotional and psychological realities of new parenthood, the shifting identity of caregiving, and why understanding the science of the parental brain is a powerful step toward building more compassionate cultural narratives and systems that support families.  Inside this episode: The major neurological shifts that occur in pregnancy and postpartum Why “maternal instinct” is more myth than science How caregiving changes all parents’ brains, not just mothers The impact of identity shifts and anxiety in early parenthood How brain science supports better parental leave policies The role of sleep, stress, and societal pressure on new parents Why the transition to parenthood is a developmental stage Why understanding your brain helps you give yourself grace And so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Mother Brain by Chelsea Conaboy Follow Chelsea on Instagram: @chelseaconaboy Between Us Substack  If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 98: Nutrition, Misinformation & Modern Motherhood with Dr. Jessica Nurick In this episode, Rachael sits down with nutrition scientist and registered dietitian Dr. Jessica Nurick to unpack the confusing world of nutrition, wellness, and parenting. From pregnancy food rules to the fear-based messaging around seed oils and formula, Dr. Nurick brings clarity and calm to a space often dominated by conflicting advice. Together, they explore how wellness culture can create unrealistic expectations for new parents, why fiber is your gut’s best friend, and how to build nutrient-dense meals without overthinking it. With humor, empathy, and a strong public health lens, Dr. Nurick reminds us that evidence-based information, not internet trends, is what supports real families. Inside this episode: The influence of Dr. Nurick’s personal story on her career in nutrition The harm of misinformation during pregnancy and postpartum The truth about seed oils and why they’re not the enemy Practical, realistic tips for feeding families The microbiome’s love language: fiber How wellness culture often fails (and pressures) new moms The rise of crunchy mom narratives and how to separate fact from fear How to identify credible nutrition sources The bigger picture: public health, food access, and social support And so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Follow Dr. Jessica Nurick on Instagram: @drjessicard Dr. Jess on substack: here Dr. Jess on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjessicaknurick?lang=en  If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 97: Parenting Hacks, Playful Discipline & Toddler Tantrums with Chelsea Anderson In this episode, Rachael sits down with parenting content creator and former babysitter Chelsea Anderson to talk all things tantrums, transitions, and the power of play. Chelsea shares her journey from marketing and babysitting to becoming a go-to voice for practical, creative parenting solutions on social media. Together, they explore how playful parenting can shift a home’s energy, why transitions are “energy expensive,” and how simple hacks can ease even the toughest moments with toddlers. Chelsea brings humor, warmth, and a deep understanding of child behavior and reminds us that even boundaries can be playful. Inside this episode: Chelsea’s background in marketing and babysitting Why kids test boundaries (and how to respond) The power of playful parenting to prevent power struggles Handling transitions with humor and creativity Sibling aggression and managing big emotions Nighttime routines and car seat battles Why it’s okay to “bribe” sometimes Helping toddlers feel in control without giving in Chelsea’s upcoming book on babysitting hacks And so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Chelsea on instagram: @chelsea_explains Chelsea on tiktok: @chelseaexplainsitall Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 96: How Not To Hate Your Husband After Kids with Jancee Dunn In this episode, Rachael sits down with journalist and author Jancee Dunn to talk about what really happens to relationships after kids enter the picture. Based on insights from her book How Not To Hate Your Husband After Kids, Jancee shares her own story of how motherhood rocked her marriage and the hard conversations, therapy, and practical shifts that helped her and her partner reconnect. Together, they dig into the messy, emotional realities of postpartum partnership: the resentment, the invisible labor, the awkwardness around intimacy, and how to stop keeping score. With humor and honesty, Jancee offers validation and tools for couples who are in the thick of it and ready to find their way back to each other. Inside this episode: Why resentment builds and how to talk about it The “mental load” and how it disproportionately affects moms Understanding labor inequity and how to rebalance What maternal gatekeeping is and why it matters The importance of open conversations about intimacy How time management and self-perception impact connection Tools for better communication (I statements, emotion labeling, paraphrasing) Why therapy isn’t just for couples in crisis Simple exercises to strengthen your relationship Letting go of social media perfection and sharing real experiences And so much more! Mentioned in this episode: How Not To Hate Your Husband After Kids by Jancee Dunn Follow Jancee on Instagram: @janceedunn If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 95: Choosing Sobriety: A Real Talk on Alcohol, Motherhood & Identity with Meg Fee In this episode, Rachael sits down with Meg Fee, creator of the podcast More Than Sobriety, to talk about the complex, non-linear path to sobriety and how it intersects with motherhood. Meg shares her deeply personal story of questioning her relationship with alcohol, navigating social situations sober, and challenging cultural norms like "mommy wine culture." Together, they dive into the emotional realities of sobriety, the power of community, and why you don’t need to hit rock bottom to choose a different path. This honest and empowering conversation offers support and perspective to anyone who’s sober curious or simply reevaluating their relationship with alcohol. Inside this episode: Meg’s journey to sobriety and why it’s never a straight line Rachael’s realizations about the role of alcohol in her life as a mom  The shift in perspective that motherhood can bring Understanding "mommy wine culture" and its impact Why sobriety is about more than just abstaining How to navigate social situations and friendships without drinking The role of cannabis and other alternatives in sober living Breaking the stigma around addiction and alcohol use disorder Why communication with friends and support systems are essential How mocktails and non-alcoholic options are changing the game The importance of community and listening to your own intuition And so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Follow Meg on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/megfee/?hl=en Listen to her podcast: More Than Sobriety If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 94: Parenting a Child with Disabilities with Casey Mouton In this episode, Rachael sits down with therapist and mom Casey Mouton to talk about the emotional and complex journey of parenting a child with disabilities. Casey opens up about her son’s diagnosis after a stroke at 10 months old, how it impacted her family, and the ways her personal experience shaped her work in maternal mental health. This conversation is a deeply honest look at what it means to face uncertainty, advocate fiercely, and still find moments of joy along the way. Inside this episode: How Casey’s postpartum experience shifted her career to focus on maternal mental health The story of her son’s stroke and diagnosis with cerebral palsy What grief looks like when you're parenting through it How parenting a child with disabilities can strain relationships and what helps The healing power of support groups and community Tips for advocating in school settings and building inclusive environments Why finding joy amidst challenges isn’t just possible…it’s necessary Empowering kids to understand their potential and build confidence The importance of empathy and understanding from the outside world And so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Mavida Health: Collaborative care for maternal mental health Follow Casey on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mavidahealth/?hl=en  If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 93: Navigating the Grandparent-Parent Relationship: Boundaries, Expectations & Building Connection with Deedee Moore In this episode, Rachael sits down with Deedee Moore, creator of resources for modern grandparents, to talk about the often-unspoken complexities of grandparenting in today’s world. Together, they unpack everything from holiday overwhelm to unsolicited advice and the emotional tightrope we walk as parents trying to set boundaries without creating conflict. Whether you're feeling tension around gifts, unsure how to communicate with in-laws, or just trying to figure out how to create a more supportive village, this conversation is full of practical insights and thoughtful reminders that we’re all learning as we go. Inside this episode: Why grandparenting can feel fulfilling and challenging for everyone involved How to set boundaries around gifts, advice, and time without guilt Why communication should start before the baby even arrives Navigating holiday expectations and learning to accept disappointment Why building relationships (not giving stuff) matters most Are  modern grandparents really more busy, working, or caregiving in other ways? Tips for finding the right tone and timing for hard conversations How sharing your parenting resources with grandparents can reduce confusion Simple ideas to foster meaningful bonds between grandparents and grandchildren And so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Free resource: How To Talk So Grandparents Will Listen Follow Deedee on Instagram: @morethangrand New Grandparent Essentials More Than Grand website If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 92: Celebrating Queer Families & Normalizing Representation with Jaimie from the Queer Family Podcast In this episode Rachael welcomes Jaimie, the creator of the Queer Family Podcast, for a vibrant and heartfelt conversation about what it really means to parent within the LGBTQIA+ community. From being both a bio and non-bio mom to navigating public perception and household dynamics, Jaimie brings her signature humor and honesty to this vital conversation about visibility, inclusivity, and the beautiful messiness of parenthood. Whether you're part of a queer family or simply want to raise your children in a more inclusive world, this episode offers perspective, laughter, and practical tips for celebrating every kind of family. Inside this episode: The unique joys and challenges queer families face How to bond with your child as a non-bio parent The power of humor in parenting and tackling tough topics Why curiosity in kids about family structures should be welcomed, not feared How household responsibilities can be shared based on strengths—not stereotypes Why representation for LGBTQIA+ families matters deeply The role of inclusive books in early childhood Normalizing queer family dynamics in everyday life Postpartum reflections from the non-birthing parent The beauty and complexity of queer love, parenting, and visibility Plus SO much more! Mentioned in this episode: Follow Jaimie on Instagram: @thequeerfamilypodcast Listen to The Queer Family Podcast wherever you get your podcasts! Ourshelves Book Subscription  If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 91: The Potty Training Journey: Readiness, Regression & Releasing the Pressure with Jess from Nurtured First In this episode, Rachael welcomes back psychotherapist Jess Vanderwier from Nurtured First to talk all things potty training, because no one told us how complex (and emotional) it can really be! From readiness signs to regressions and nighttime dryness, Jess brings her compassionate, shame-free approach to one of the most talked-about parenting transitions. Together, they dive into all of your most-asked questions about potty “training” including how to tune into your child’s cues and what to do when things don’t go as planned. Whether you’re just starting out, hitting a rough patch, or questioning everything you thought you knew, this episode is for you. Inside this episode: Why there's no “right” age to start potty training How to spot signs of readiness (hint: curiosity matters more than compliance) The danger of pressure and how it can lead to power struggles What to do when accidents (or regressions) happen The emotional side of potty training and how to stay curious, not reactive Differences between daytime and nighttime dryness Why three-day methods don’t work for every child How shame-free potty learning fosters independence and confidence Ways to create positive associations and model behavior Why taking a break might be the best thing you can do Plus so much more!  Mentioned in this episode: Follow Jess on Instagram: @nurturedfirst Jess’s parenting podcast Robot Unicorn If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 90: Rebuilding After Divorce: Communication, Co-Parenting & Finding Yourself Again with Betsy Kelly In this episode, Rachael sits down with SLP turned Divorce Doula and Podcast host, Betsy Kelly to talk about navigating the often isolating and emotional journey of divorce. Betsy shares her deeply personal story of choosing herself, learning to co-parent with clarity and compassion, and the power of creating community through storytelling. Together, they explore what it really means to rebuild after a marriage ends—and why no one should have to do it alone. Inside this episode: Betsy’s story of feeling alone when she made the decision to divorce The surprising link between communication, connection, and healing Tips for talking to kids about divorce in age-appropriate ways Why approaching co-parenting like a business helps reduce conflict The emotional toll of bad-mouthing an ex—and why it harms kids The importance of therapy, friendships and finding a trusted confidant Why no two divorce journeys look the same Rebuilding identity and rediscovering self-worth, dating and more post-divorce How Betsy’s podcast Divorce Stories is helping others feel less alone & so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Betsy on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divorcedoulabetsy?_t=ZP-8vW3o1l0qlS&_r=1  Divorce Stories Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/divorce-stories/id1808073006  A special thank you to our listeners on Betsy’s website here- https://www.betsykellycoaching.com/heysleepybaby  If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 89: Debunking Vaccine Myths: Making Choices with Evidence and Compassion with Dr. Elisabeth Marnik In this episode, Rachael sits down with scientist, mom, and writer Dr. Liz Marnik to talk about one of the most emotionally charged topics in modern parenting: vaccines. Together, they explore how fear, misinformation, and anxiety shape parental decision-making—and why accessible, compassionate science communication matters more than ever. Inside this episode: Dr. Marnik’s personal  journey from vaccine hesitancy to scientific advocacy How anxiety and fear influence parents’ vaccine decision-making What’s really in vaccines—and why it’s safe Debunking myths: autism, immune overload, and the "too many too soon" idea Why measles is more dangerous than most people realize Understanding herd immunity and who it protects Why misinformation spreads faster than facts—and how to pause before sharing How to talk to vaccine-hesitant loved ones with curiosity, not judgment & so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Liz on Instagram: @ScienceWhizLiz & @ThoseNerdyGirls Substack: https://fromthescienceclass.substack.com/  Vaccine schedule differences Too many vaccines  More on Liz here: The reason my mom didn't vaccinate Science Saved Me Lessons From a Vaccinated Daughter of a Vaccine Hesitant Mother Autism and vaccines  Substack: Comprehensive Review of MMR Resources & Info Substack: Vaccines are not associated with autism Measles Substack: Measles is NEVER EVER beneficial Instagram FAQs How can I protect myself from measles? If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Rachael sits down with therapist, author, and mom Amanda E. White to unpack the often unspoken truths about motherhood—ambivalence, choice, and the radical permission to not love every moment. Together, they talk about what it means to question the path of parenthood, to feel unsure, and to still be a good enough parent. This is a deep-dive into choosing your own way in a culture obsessed with “doing it right.” Inside this episode: What it means to be a “fence sitter” about motherhood How social media shapes unrealistic expectations about parenting The grief of unlived lives and letting go of former selves Navigating differing desires with your partner about family size The emotional toll of infertility and decision-making How to know if you’re done having kids—or not Why desire, not fear or pressure, should guide family planning decisions Permission to change your mind—and the freedom in uncertainty &  so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Amanda’s website: therapyforwomencenter.com  Substack: Fence Sitter Podcast: Nuance Needed   If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 87: Neurodivergent Children: Sleep, Sensory Needs, and the Right Support with Lauren Sloan What does it mean to support neurodivergent children in a world that doesn’t always understand their unique needs? This week on No One Told Us, Rachael is joined by registered nurse and sleep specialist (not to mention mom of 3!) Lauren Sloan to talk about her experiences parenting three neurodivergent boys—and why typical advice about sleep, routines, and behavior often falls short. We’re digging deep into the realities of raising neurodivergent kids—how sensory processing impacts sleep, why traditional sleep training can be risky, and why parents need flexibility, compassion, and the right resources to truly support their children. Lauren brings her professional expertise and personal stories to topics like bedtime routines, feeding challenges, sleep struggles, and the power of understanding your child’s sensory world. Inside this episode… Lauren’s personal journey raising three neurodivergent boys Why sensory processing is crucial for understanding sleep challenges in all children How “stimming” is a natural, important way kids regulate themselves Why one-size-fits-all sleep training methods can backfire for ND and Autistic children How sensory needs impact bedtime routines and feeding transitions Sensory techniques and tools that can help calm kids down at bedtime The potential risks of things like reward charts and rigid routines for neurodivergent children How parents can self-refer and seek the right support early on The emotional toll of parenting when systems don’t fit your child—and how to find validation and help Plus so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Lauren’s Instagram: @spiritedbabysleep Substack: Spirited Baby Sleep – spiritedbabysleep.substack.com Where to Start: Finding Support: https://spiritedbabysleep.myflodesk.com/aogt5sf52c My Baby Hates the Car Seat: https://spiritedbabysleep.myflodesk.com/r6t6g0ndw6 Early Neurodiversity Course: https://spiritedbabysleep.thrivecart.com/early-neurodiversity/ Lauren’s Recommended Resources: Parents as Teachers Lesson Pix Twinkl  Learning Corner  Books:  The out of sync child has fun  The Pocket Guide to Neurodiversity Sincerely Your Autistic Child NeuroTribes If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SURPRISE and welcome to a little sneak peak special treat of You're So Right, the NEW podcast hosted by me, Rachael, and BFF of the pod Caitlin Wilder! 🎉 In this special crossover episode, join your two IG besties as they talk all about Rachael's trip to LA and what went right (ear piercings!) and wrong (concussions and too many ice cream samples!). You'll also hear about how Rachael was model scouted in a Staples as a pre-teen and what we think about small talk and Chuck-e-Cheese. This episode should give you a *pretty good* vibe for what to expect over on You're So Right (this may be a positive or negative we don't know yet!), which is launching in just a couple short weeks! We'll chit chat, take questions from you, and mostly give you something easy and breezy to listen to so you can temporarily forget about the *horrors* we are all currently living through. Surviving not thriving is the name of the game over on You're So Right! Thank you so much to all of my beloved NOTU listeners for checking this episode out. I hope you'll continue to listen here for all of the educational parenting convos and then come turn your brain off with me and Caitlin at You're So Right. Because we hold multitudes my friends!!! Follow me at @heysleepybaby and Caitlin at @wilderbeginnings for updates! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 86: Reimagining Boyhood with Ruth Whippman What does it mean to raise boys in a world where masculinity feels impossible to get right? This week on No One Told Us, Rachael is joined by author and cultural critic Ruth Whippman to talk about her powerful new book, BoyMom: Reimagining Boyhood in the Age of Impossible Masculinity. We’re digging deep into the unspoken challenges of parenting boys today—gendered expectations that begin before birth, the emotional isolation of boys in our culture, and the ways that patriarchy harms everyone, not just women. Ruth brings a compassionate, sharp, and often funny lens to topics like toxic masculinity, feminism, screen time, school struggles, and why our young boys are struggling so much right now. Inside this episode….. Ruth’s own experience raising 3 boys as a feminist Unhelpful stereotypes like “boys will be boys” and how they harm our children Ruth’s opinion on Netflix’s show "Adolescence" and its portrayal of modern boyhood Why today’s world is a “perfect storm” for young boys and men to be radicalized How do we hold young men accountable without sending them into shame and shutdown? How patriarchy harms both men and women, and Ruth’s recommendations for both #boymoms and #boydads And what can we do—today—as parents, to change the story for our little boys? Plus so much more! This episode is for anyone raising boys, loving boys, or trying to understand them in a culture that so often gets masculinity wrong. 💙 Mentioned in this episode: Ruth’s Book: BoyMom:  Reimagining Boyhood in the Age of Impossible Masculinity  Ruth’s Substack: I Blame Society  If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 85: Navigating Grief: Support After Miscarriage, Stillbirth and Loss with Jessica Zucker  This week Rachael speaks with psychologist Jessica Zucker about her experiences with miscarriage and her efforts to normalize conversations around women's reproductive health. Jessica shares insights from her books, including 'I Had a Miscarriage' and 'Normalize It', emphasizing the need to break the stigma surrounding these topics.  Inside this episode: The ongoing emotional impact of miscarriage and loss  How to support friends dealing with loss The often overlooked topic of termination for medical reasons Body image issues post-loss and the pressures women face regarding their bodies And so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Jessica’s website: https://www.drjessicazucker.com/normalize-it  Normalize It: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1683738144  I Had A Miscarriage: https://www.drjessicazucker.com/i-had-a-miscarriage  Jessica’s Instagram: @ihadamiscarriage  If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 84: Emotionally Preparing for the Fourth Trimester with Lauren Hays & Megan Dalton This week Rachael and guests Lauren Hays & Megan Dalton, founders of The Matrescence,  talk all about the concept of “Matrescence” and why new mothers need better support. They highlight how the lack of understanding for the monumental transformation of becoming a mother is harmful and contributes to the maternal mental health crisis in this country.  Inside this episode: What is Matrescence? The importance of NOT waiting to prioritize your own well-being as a mom Practical self-care strategies for postpartum  How Dysphoric milk ejection reflex (D-MER) affects breastfeeding Sleep, or lack thereof, and the toll it takes on new parents And so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Megan & Lauren on Instagram: @thematrescence Fourth Trimester Course: https://www.thematrescence.com/product-postpartum-class/  Matrescence App Membership: https://www.thematrescence.com/motherhood-community/  If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices