Vicky and Lauren, hosts of 'Two Moms and a Mic,' introduce a new format for their weekly podcast by initiating a mini-series focused on the impact of stress on mothers. 

They aim to explore stress from various perspectives, starting with understanding the basic stress response. The discussion highlights how becoming a mother introduces a new level of relentless stress that significantly affects both mind and body, contrasting with their pre-parenthood experiences. 

The hosts argue that awareness and a deeper understanding of stress, including its physical, emotional, and mental effects, are crucial for managing it effectively. They share personal anecdotes to illustrate the real-life implications of stress on mothers, from sleep deprivation to autoimmune disorders, and emphasize the importance of breaking the cycle of stress to avoid long-term damage. The episode promises to delve into the physical, emotional, and mental effects of chronic low-grade stress in future segments of the mini-series.

00:00 Welcome to Two Moms and a Mic: Navigating Parenthood Together01:06 Introducing a New Podcast Format: Deep Dives into Parenting Topics01:50 The Stress Series: Understanding Stress from a Mother's Perspective05:56 The Science of Stress: How It Affects Your Body09:28 The Continuous Cycle of Stress in Parenthood12:10 Personal Stories of Stress and Its Impact16:08 The Downward Spiral: Stress Leading to Anxiety and Depression17:04 Wrapping Up and Looking Ahead