Whether you call it a binky, dummy, or tutje, the pacifier is a beloved tool that helps many babies (and parents) survive the early years. But when is the "right" time to say goodbye? In this episode of DAMChats, Eva and Maren take a warm, honest, and direct look at the emotional and practical reality of weaning off the pacifier. We discuss the undeniable benefits—from soothing stress to aiding sleep—while tackling the common dread parents feel when it’s time to phase it out.

Sharing their own personal hits and misses, Eva and Maren explore various strategies for a gentle transition that respects your child’s need for comfort. From the "Pacifier Fairy" to gradual reduction, we break down how to handle the protest and provide the support your child needs to self-soothe without the "lovey." If you’re currently in the trenches of weaning or just mentally preparing for the day, this episode offers the solidarity and tips you need.

Being an international parent in the Netherlands means facing a unique set of hurdles, and sometimes you just need to know you’re not the only one struggling with them. In this warm, honest, and direct episode, Eva and Maren dive into the messages and "hot topics" that have been sparking conversations across our community. From the stress of choosing the right school to navigating the often-surprising cultural differences in Dutch parenting, we’re tackling the questions that matter most to you right now.

We share our own personal experiences—the wins and the awkward moments—while offering practical advice on making sense of life in the Low Countries. Whether you’re a newcomer trying to find your footing or a seasoned expat facing a new phase of parenting, this episode is all about connection and solidarity. Tune in to hear the voices of our community and get the support you need for your parenting journey in the Netherlands.

Becoming a parent is unpredictable enough without the added stress of the Amsterdam housing market. In this episode of Dam Parenting, Eva and Maren dive deep into a topic that has sparked endless conversation in our community: the housing struggle for international families. From the frustration of bids not being accepted to the heartache of finding a place that actually fits a growing family, we take a warm, honest, and direct look at the reality of the Dutch property hunt.

We share our personal experiences with housing uncertainty and offer practical advice on how to manage the emotional toll it takes on your well-being. Whether you’re currently scrolling through Funda or feeling the pressure of relocation, this episode is a reminder that you aren’t alone in this hurdle. Let’s talk about how to keep your family’s sanity in check while searching for a place to call home in the Netherlands.

Why are Dutch children consistently ranked as some of the happiest in the world? In this first installment of the DamGoode Bookclub, hosts Eva and Maren are joined by award-winning librarian and author Elizabeth Goode to dissect the iconic parenting guide, The Happiest Kids in the World.

From the "three R's" (rest, rhythm, and routine) to the famous Dutch teenage independence, we take a warm, honest, and direct look at what actually works in the Dutch parenting model—and what feels foreign to those of us raised elsewhere. As three mothers navigating life in the Netherlands, we share our personal reflections on integrating these local values into our own international homes. Whether you’re curious about the "hagelslag" culture or looking for practical strategies to lower your parenting stress, this episode offers a deep dive into the secrets of the Dutch upbringing. Note: While the English version is a global bestseller, check your local OBA for the Dutch edition!

What happens when the "new baby" excitement fades and the long-term reality of motherhood sets in? In this follow-up episode of Dam Parenting, we reconnect with Amsterdam-based postpartum doula Harriet at her own three-month milestone. When we last spoke, Harriet was preparing for her first child; now, she’s in the thick of it.

We take a warm, honest, and direct look at the "slump" that often occurs at 90 days—when hormones shift, support systems pull back, and the mental load feels heaviest. Harriet pulls back the curtain on her personal journey, moving from doula expertise to the raw reality of a first-time mom. We discuss navigating the emotional highs and lows, the physical recovery hurdles, and why it’s vital to acknowledge the "tough stuff" alongside the beautiful moments. If you’re feeling a bit lost in the post-newborn haze, this conversation offers the professional insight and sisterly solidarity you need.

You can follow Harriet on her instagram here

When life gets overwhelming, self-care is often the first thing to go—and nutrition usually follows. In this episode of Dam Parenting, Eva and Maren sit down with Amélie to take a warm, honest, and direct look at the powerful connection between what we eat and how we feel. As mothers, we often prioritize our children’s plates while neglecting our own, reaching for quick fixes that leave us drained.

Amélie explores how intentional food choices can improve mental clarity and emotional stability, providing the steady energy required for the demands of expat parenting. We discuss the real-world challenges of eating well when you're exhausted and share practical, easy strategies to incorporate nourishing foods into your daily routine. This isn't about "perfect" dieting; it’s about using food as a tool for mental health and remembering that your well-being is the engine that keeps your family running.

⁠ Motherhood is overwhelming for everyone, but for mothers with ADHD, the mental load can feel like a daily battle against executive dysfunction. In this episode of Dam Parenting, we are joined by Emma from ⁠ADHD Potential to explore why so many women are receiving ADHD diagnoses in their 30s and 40s—often triggered by the relentless demands of parenting.

We take a warm, honest, and direct look at how ADHD impacts emotional regulation, household routines, and the internal pressure to "do it all." Emma shares practical, ADHD-friendly strategies for creating structure that actually works, while emphasizing the importance of setting realistic expectations. If you’ve been struggling in silence or feel like you’re constantly "failing" at the basics, this conversation is a reminder to trade shame for self-compassion. Whether you are diagnosed or just suspect your brain works differently, join Eva and Maren for actionable advice on managing your mindset and your family.

Trigger Warning

Pregnancy loss is a deeply personal journey that is far too often navigated in silence. In this installment of our Maternal Mental Health series, Eva and Maren sit down with specialist Ilena Standring to take a warm, honest, and direct look at the emotional toll of miscarriage. We discuss the profound impact of loss on mental health, the complexities of grieving while living abroad, and the vital importance of seeking—and receiving—meaningful support.

Ilena shares her expert insights on how to process the unique grief of pregnancy loss and offers practical advice for those currently in the midst of it, as well as for friends and family looking to offer sensitive care. Whether you are seeking comfort for your own journey or looking to better support a loved one, this episode serves as a compassionate resource and a reminder that your grief is valid. You don't have to carry this story alone.

Ilena spoke about the article she wrote previously for Amsterdam Mamas which you can find here

When our children start school, we focus so much on their backpacks and big feelings that we often forget our own. In this episode of Dam Parenting, we’re joined by relocation counselor and coach Erin, who reached out after listening to ⁠episode 30: School and Languages⁠⁠, to explore the hidden anxiety parents face during major life transitions. Inspired by our recent discussions on the Dutch school system, we take a warm, honest, and direct look at the emotional impact these milestones have on us.

It’s easy to feel the pressure to "power through," but Erin reminds us that self-compassion is our most vital tool. We discuss how to acknowledge the vulnerability of letting go, the stress of new routines, and the importance of giving ourselves the same grace we offer our children. If you’re feeling the weight of an upcoming transition or the "unknown" of the school gates, this conversation offers the space you need to breathe, process, and parent with a more balanced mindset.

Motherhood is often painted as a time of constant connection, but the reality for many is a profound sense of isolation. In this candid episode of Dam Parenting, Eva and Maren sit down with resident psychologist Dr. Naomi Gibson to pull back the curtain on the loneliness so many mothers face but rarely discuss.

Whether it's the 3:00 AM feed, the repetitive park visits, or the rainy Dutch days that keep you indoors, we take a warm, honest, and direct look at the emotional toll of exhaustion and the "perfection" trap. Dr. Naomi shares her research on the link between self-compassion and loneliness, offering practical insights on how to be a kinder friend to yourself when you feel most invisible. If you’ve ever felt like you’re the only one struggling to "enjoy every moment," this episode is your reminder that your feelings are valid. You aren’t failing; you’re just human.

As long as you are self- compassionate, you will never walk alone

Self-compassion and loneliness