Mom Chat with Mamistad on Pregnancy and New Motherhood

Meet Ciarra Morgan of Empowered Beginnings. She is a certified birth and postpartum doula, HypnoBirthing educator and pediatric sleep consultant. Ciarra's also the owner of a doula agency in Austin, Texas and the founder of Birth, Baby! Academy where she offers classes for both parents and birth professionals. Finally, she's the host of the Birth, Baby! Podcast on which I had the distinct honor of being a guest recently. 

Ciarra has created a place for families to empower themselves via a team of birth doulas and postpartum doulas, childbirth educators, sleep consultants, and a lactation counselor whose services prepare and support from conception through the first years after birth.

Empowered Beginnings ATX: https://empoweredbeginningsatx.com/

The Birth, Baby! Podcast: ⁠https://www.birthbabypodcast.com/⁠

Birth, Baby! Academy: www.birthbabyacademy.com

Cynthia on Birth, Baby!: ⁠https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-qq6yb-19c998b⁠

Ciarra mentioned GALS - Giving Austin Labor Support:

https://www.givingaustinlaborsupport.org

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.

I'm wishing all Mamistad Moms and families and all families everywhere, a wonderful holiday season. Last year I shared a quick Holiday message that was well-received (thank you for your feedback), So, I'm reposting it bc the message is important and as true as ever. There are so many podcasts out there to help us deal with the mental load of the holidays so I'll leave that to the experts.

My message is simply to wish you the happiest holidays ever or, if you don't exactly feel overjoyed, to remind you that, that's okay too. 

Personally, I miss my mom more than ever on Christmas and I'm sure many of you can relate or have your own situations that can bring you down. My wish is that as parents, your kiddos can bring you back up, even just a little bit. 

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.

It's time for THE BIRTH OF A MOTHER to take its rightful place next to ​t​he birth of her baby.

Today's guest, Dr. Nicole Kumi PhD, PMH-C & Founder & CEO of The Whole Mom, shares the story behind the amazing business she built to focus on the critical challenges of the postpartum period, rather than gloss over them and consequently, underserve the newborn mother.

The psychological shift in motherhood is profound and should be discussed openly, normalized and celebrated! Dr. Kumi teaches that awareness is key. When we're more aware of possible postpartum challenges, we can better prepare for them and minimize their potentially harmful effects on a mother who is naturally hyper-focused on her baby.

Sleep deprivation, lack of communication and self-doubt are seeds that can quickly grow into deep-rooted issues when we don't make a concerted effort to understand them in advance. As she puts it, The sooner we focus on these areas, the sooner we find more joy and less chaos and frustration in the postpartum period.​

Some time stamped highlights:

04:53 Struggles with Postpartum Depression

13:40 The Psychological Shift in Motherhood

17:49 Challenges of Postpartum Sleep Deprivation

21:32 Postpartum Fears and Social Media

23:35 Embracing the Evolution of Motherhood

25:04 The Strength of a Mother

26:31 The Importance of Support Systems

34:20 Educational Workshops for Moms

L​inks to Dr. Kumi: https://www.thewholemom.com/

​On IG: @nicole_kumi

Podcast: Midnight Mama with Nicole Kumi on Apple

Mom Chat Ep. 8: MATRESCENCE with Megan MacCutcheon, LPC, PMH-C on Apple on Spotify

Visit us at ⁠Mamistad.com⁠ for more info about Mamistad and to learn more about Mamistad groups!

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.

 As children,​ we escape the boring grownup world with imaginative daydreams, full of color, life, creativity, and fun. Now imagine an actual place where fun and curiosity rule and children learn manners and etiquette at the same time!

When my daughter was little, some 15 years ago, that place was tucked away in Falls Church, Virginia, that place was T​ea with Mrs.B. I'm thrilled to say that T​ea with Mrs. B lives on even bigger and bolder than before.​ 

Today we are so fortunate to welcome as our guest, Mrs. B herself, Rebecca ​Czarniecki.

Rebecca undoubtedly plays a starring role in the memories of many children and adults who have joined Mrs. B over the years​ for manners camps, tea parties, birthday parties, baby showers, bridal showers, engagement parties, tea time with Santa, and my daughter's favorite​, fairy tea time​. Now​, add cotillions to the lis​t! 

Rebecca is a breath of fresh air in a world that often feels full of bitterness and angst. She is a one​-of​-a​-kind creator who brings her own dreams to life every day with ​​éclat​ and an insatiable ​joie de vivre, by working with her favorite people on the planet​, children.

She encourages us to dream​, dance​, and throw confetti, all while treating others with respect and kindness​. I am beyond thrilled to have her as a guest today​!

Some time stamped highlights: 

05:48 Rebecca's Journey and Philosophy

08:50 The Role of Manners in Child Development

16:51 Teaching Kindness and Courtesy

21:43 The Importance of Respect in Society

28:26 Manners and Tea Camp for Children

35:45 Holiday Season Events

For more on Rebecca and Tea with Mrs. B:

Website: https://www.teawithmrsb.com/

On Instagram: @teawithmrsb

O​n YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M3H-h8M4mGg​

Thank you Mrs. B! 

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.

Mom Chat is FINALLY welcoming a perinatal nutritionist - and she is outstanding! The fact that she's a young mom of three children under four and a military wife would be enough to make her a hero, but add an insatiable appetite for learning , training under Maranda Bower of Postpartum University, and a passion for helping moms thrive - and you Have Brooke Harmer, holistic perinatal nutritionist, blogger, recipe developer and Founder of The Well Nourished Mama. 

Her commitment to perinatal nutrition was born out of her own struggle with an eating disorder, her dream to become a mom and her determination to show up as the best possible mother for her children.

When she didn't have the resources to pay someone to "fix her", she  went down the rabbit hole of diet and lifestyle and wound up in the best shape of her life.

Now, through her website, podcast, resources and recipes she's helping tons of moms feel better and avoid pitfalls we didn't even realize were tied to nutrition!

In this episode, hopefully the first of many with Brooke,  we explore why it's crucial to cultivate the right mindset around nourishing yourself well from the moment you decide to conceive, through pregnancy and postpartum, into your baby's first year, and ideally beyond.

Highlights:

06:07 The Turning Point: Overcoming an Eating Disorder14:50 The Importance of Proper Nutrition for Moms22:17 Body Image and Eating Habits During Pregnancy23:20 Postpartum Nutrition: Myths and Facts25:35 The Importance of Eating Well Postpartum30:05 Nutrient-Rich Foods for Postpartum Recovery30:28 Addressing Vegetarian and Vegan Diets Postpartum37:01 Meal Planning and Stress Management for New MomsWebsite and podcast: https://www.thewellnourishedmama.com/

On IG: @thewellnourishedmama_

Get the cookbooks:

https://www.thewellnourishedmama.com/shop

Maranda Bower - Postpartum University 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.

​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 ​a​nxiety and depression.​ Adam creates a space to help dads share ​t​heir 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.  

H​IGHLIGHTS:

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:

• Torticollis (tight neck)
• Plagiocephaly (flat head syndrome)
• Gross and fine motor milestone delays
• Tethered oral tissues (tongue/lip ties)
• Bottle feeding and breastfeeding difficulties
• Starting solids & picky eating

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:

• Share your episode idea
• See a list of all episodes
• See episodes from our "The Stuff No One Tells You" collection!

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:

Quality Touch PT DC⁠

​⁠Mom Chat ⁠⁠Ep.17 - Dr. Katie Bayer, PT Tyson's⁠​14:48 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, ​m​ay lessen need for an operative deliver​y (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 podcas​t​ 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: @thedenfamilysocial​Website: 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.

Becky's Books:

• A Workbook: How to Healthily Transition to Motherhood​
• A Gratitude Journal: Thankful for Motherhood​
• A Book for Working Moms:​ Employed Motherhood: Healthily and Holistically Transition Back to Work after Having a Baby
• ​A Practical Journal: A Second Brain for MomnesiaA Guide for Working Mothers: Healthily and Holistically Transition to Working Motherhood: A Gentle, Practical Guide to Returning to Work After Having a Baby

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.