In this episode, I am joined by my friend Christina Wanta to discuss how to financially and mentally prepare for maternity leave and having a baby. We share our different experiences as a corporate employee and an entrepreneur. Part one focuses on pre-maternity leave preparations, including dealing with loss of income, insurance benefits, and saving for baby-related expenses. Part two will cover time off during maternity leave, returning to work, and daycare options.

Key Highlights

[00:00:00] - Introduction to the episode and topic of preparing for maternity leave and having a baby.

[00:00:21] - Introducing guest Christina Wanta and discussing their different perspectives as a corporate employee and an entrepreneur.

[00:00:49] - Part one of the episode: discussing preparations before maternity leave, including loss of income, insurance benefits, and saving for the baby.

[00:01:31] - Preview of part two of the series, which will cover time off during maternity leave, returning to work, and daycare options.

[00:01:32] - Welcoming Christina Wanta to the podcast.

[00:01:43] - Christina sharing her experience and financial fears when she first found out she was pregnant.

[00:04:05] - Discussing the process of informing the employer about the pregnancy and understanding maternity leave benefits through HR.

[00:14:20] - Discussing the expenses of preparing for a baby, including strollers, cribs, and the SNU rental.

[00:20:53] - Sharing the surprise of receiving hand-me-downs and spending less money than expected on baby items.

[00:25:34] - Discussing financial preparation before maternity leave, including creating a baby savings account and budgeting for expenses.

Notable Quotes

• "I did not want to work during maternity leave. I want to be able to give my time and energy and love exclusively to this baby while he's so young."
• "Identity plays such a big role in this whole journey, your professional identity, but also your identity as a woman becoming a mother who's also a spouse."
• "I had so many friends reaching out, offering to share their baby items. I felt so loved and cared for through that process."
• "Invest in a great stroller and car seat, something you can use for years. Your community can chip in to support this special item."
• "You don't have to spend a fortune on baby items. Look for deals on used baby gear, like the SNOO, to save money."

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