In this episode of "Motherhood Unveiled," host Ashley welcomes Jamie Greenwood, a life and leadership coach, mother, and stepmother of three. Jamie shares candid insights into her blended family, the challenges of setting boundaries, and the importance of self-care for mothers. She discusses her journey through step-parenting, advocacy for her children, and navigating “mom rage.” Together, Ashley and Jamie explore the realities of motherhood, the value of honest conversations, and the need for community support, offering listeners practical wisdom and heartfelt encouragement for embracing the messy, beautiful truth of parenting.

Meet Jamie

Jamie is a life and leadership coach who supports big-dreaming, high-achieving mothers to set exquisite boundaries and find agency within themselves, without an ounce of guilt. With over 16 years experience, Jamie specializes in helping women reconnect to their desires and joy so they can start living life on their own terms. As a mom, Jamie works hard to give her children the most loving, expressive and close knit family experience they can have. She also enjoys sharing her loves with them including cuban dance, local/sustainable foods, cooking, and Celtics basketball. Outside of being a mom, she LOVES being a life and leadership coach to other mothers and has a secret soft spot for rock music and cult documentaries.

Timestamps

Jamie's Personal & Professional Identity (00:02:12) 

The Homecoming Program & Storytelling (00:03:46) 

Parenting in a House of Alphas (00:05:02) 

Boundaries and Evolving Parenting Styles (00:06:44) 

Beginning of Jamie’s Motherhood Story (00:08:33) 

Healing Through EMDR & Somatic Work (00:11:23) 

Pregnancy, Advocacy, and Clubfoot Diagnosis (00:14:10) 

Motherhood as Endurance & Guilt with Second Child (00:17:41) 

Relationship with Stepdaughter After Healing (00:19:56) 

Balancing Self-Care and Motherhood Expectations (00:24:17) 

The Dance of Meeting Needs (00:26:38) 

Motherhood as Advocacy (00:29:12) 

Teaching Children Self-Advocacy (00:29:48) 

Emotional Labor and Maternal Exhaustion (00:34:28) 

Parenting Influenced by Childhood (00:35:35) 

Power Dynamics and Parenting Styles (00:40:04) 

Choice, Overwhelm, and Parenting Adjustments (00:42:08) 

Motherhood as an Endurance Challenge (00:45:25) 

Adapting to Children’s Needs and Letting Go (00:47:47) 

Ambivalence and Processing Pregnancy (00:50:19) 

Partner Dynamics and Processing Big Decisions (00:54:46) 

The Reality of Having Multiple Children (01:03:31) 

Expectations vs. Reality of Motherhood (01:06:47) 

Maternal Labor Inequities and Default Parenting (01:07:15) 

Mom Rage and the Wildness of Motherhood (01:10:22) 

Judgment, Screen Time, and Letting Go (01:19:41) 

The Faulty Job Description of Motherhood (01:21:10) 

Honesty, Gratitude, and Naming the Hard Parts (01:24:42) 

Dispelling the Myth of Loving Every Moment (01:26:56) 

Links & Mentions

1. Work with Jamie Greenwood
2. The Path Home (Jamie’s podcast)
3. Women Who Run with Wolves by Clarissa Pinkola Estés
4. What is EMDR?
5. What is gentle parenting?

Connect with Ashley on IG (@ashleybcoach) or LinkedIn
Cover Art: Abigail Murphy Photography

In this episode of "Motherhood Unveiled," host Ashley welcomes menopause consultant and coach Lisa Boate to discuss the evolving identity of mothers as children grow into adulthood. Lisa shares her personal journey through empty nesting, grief, and rediscovering herself beyond motherhood. The conversation explores the intersection of midlife transitions, perimenopause, and societal expectations, emphasizing the need for honest dialogue about the challenges and joys of later-stage motherhood. Lisa advocates for embracing one’s full identity and breaking the myth that a woman’s value lies solely in her role as a mother.

Meet Lisa

Lisa Boate is the Founder of Liberated Menopause Consulting and Coaching and the host of the Transforming 45 podcast. With over two decades of experience in education and a deep understanding of the systemic challenges women face in midlife, Lisa empowers individuals and organizations to navigate menopause with confidence, clarity, and compassion. Through keynote speaking, coaching, and her signature "Doctor Ready" sessions, Lisa helps women reclaim their quality of life and supports workplaces in becoming menopause-empowered environments.

Timestamps

Lisa’s Personal Introduction and Identity (00:03:20)

The Evolution of Self and Motherhood (00:05:06)

Being vs. Doing in Motherhood (00:06:43)

Summer Camp and Identity Through Life Stages (00:08:44)

Motherhood as a Destination (00:12:14)

Transitioning Beyond the “Happy Ending” (00:14:03)

The Ongoing Evolution of Parenting (00:18:16)

Letting Go and Redefining Roles (00:20:05)

Navigating the Empty Nest Transition (00:25:30)

Grief and the Nuance of Motherhood (00:28:23)

Processing Grief and Major Life Changes (00:34:51)

Redesigning Life and Embracing Joy (00:38:47)

Encouraging Individuality in the Next Generation (00:40:47)

Motherhood’s Role in Midlife Crisis (00:43:36)

Intersection of Motherhood and Menopause (00:47:20)

Understanding Perimenopause and Menopause (00:48:25)

Societal Narratives and Suffering in Silence (00:54:29)

The “Superhero Mom” Myth (00:56:00)

The Greatest Gift of Motherhood (00:59:30)

Dispelling the Myth of Motherhood as Value (01:01:35)

Links

1. Connect with Lisa Boate: Liberated Menopause Consultant and Coach
2. Transforming 45 Podcast
3. Postpartum depression article - symptoms can occur well after birth

Connect with Ashley on IG (@ashleybcoach) or LinkedIn
Cover Art: Abigail Murphy Photography

In this episode of Motherhood Unveiled, host Ashley shares an intimate conversation with Jessica Manca, a Certified Executive Coach and mother of two. Jessica opens up about her journey from career burnout to discovering her passion for coaching, while navigating the challenges and joys of motherhood. Offering insights into embracing one's unique journey, Jessica discusses the importance of prioritizing personal well-being, the impact of motherhood on career choices, and the ongoing process of finding balance. Tune in to hear how Jessica's experiences have shaped her approach to both life and career, and for a special offer exclusive to listeners of the show (see link below!).

Meet Jessica

Jessica Manca is an expert at helping her clients shift from feeling like an imposter to feeling empowered. As an Executive Career and Personal Development Coach, Speaker, and author, Jessica has over 25 years of experience working inside global organizations, such as Deloitte and Amazon. As the founder of Mindspaces Coaching, Jessica specializes in helping over-thinkers, introverts, and perfectionists break free from limiting beliefs. Jessica's clients have unlocked the key to career change, building self-trust, and lasting confidence. Fifteen years ago, she overcame career burnout (when she started a family) to pursue her passion and wake up every day to pure joy coaching the beautiful soul across from her. As a business owner, she partners with mid-career introverts and perfectionists to align their dream career to who they really are, without overthinking. Jessica is also the mom of two amazing humans who encourages her children to make their own mistakes, and be individuals. 

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Motherhood Unveiled

01:12 Meet Jessica Manca: A Journey of Motherhood and Coaching

04:03 Jessica's Family and Parenting Philosophy

09:51 Balancing Career and Motherhood

15:58 The Struggles of Burnout and Career Transition

25:28 Rediscovering Identity Through Coaching

34:38 The Physical and Emotional Toll of Burnout

39:43 Motherhood During Dark Times

41:30 Therapy and Damaging Feedback

44:25 Finding Help and Support

47:33 Starting a Business and Following Joy

49:28 Balancing Motherhood and Business

01:00:47 Transformational Lessons from Children

01:03:54 The Journey of Motherhood

01:15:05 Concluding Thoughts and Resources

Links and Mentions

1. Jessica’s Free Questionnaire!
2. Finding Passion by Jessica Manca
3. Learn more about Jessica
4. The WHO on Burnout 

If you, or someone you know is experiencing burnout, speak to your family doctor. Ask for help. If in Ontario, use ConnexOntario to connect with a licensed mental health specialist. Outside of Ontario, speak with your family doctor.

Connect with Ashley on IG (@ashleybcoach) or LinkedIn
Cover Art: Abigail Murphy Photography

In this heartfelt episode of "Motherhood Unveiled," host Ashley welcomes Shelley Lepp, a mother of four and CEO of Writers Collective of Canada. Shelley shares her journey through young single motherhood, miscarriage, divorce, and blending families. She discusses the evolving roles and identities of motherhood, the challenges of balancing self-care with parenting, and the power of storytelling for healing. Through candid stories of resilience, vulnerability, and support, Shelley offers listeners an honest look at navigating transitions, embracing imperfection, and finding joy in both the chaos and beauty of motherhood.

Meet Shelley

Shelley is the CEO of the Writers Collective of Canada - an arts-health charity that uses writing in a community as a way to address isolation and loneliness. She's been so many iterations of 'mom' - each feels slightly different. She's been a young mom, a single mom, a dating mom, an at home mom, an in school mom, a working mom, and mom again (older mom?) - Raising 3 teens and a toddler is a wild ride and she wouldn't have it any other way. Shelley loves early mornings, long walks, real conversation, hitting the gym, creating art in any form, and exploring the city.

Timestamps 

Welcome & Podcast Introduction (00:00:04)

Season Three Launch & Guest Introduction (00:01:18)

Shelley’s Background & Connection to Motherhood (00:02:32)

Stages of Motherhood & Upcoming Milestones (00:07:58

Shelley’s Motherhood Story: Beginnings (00:12:15)

Miscarriage and Grief (00:14:30)

Marriage Ending & Single Motherhood (00:17:16)

Reconciling Expectations vs. Reality (00:25:10)

Choosing Passion & Returning to School (00:30:29)

The Power of Storytelling & Career Path (00:31:32)

Balancing Motherhood, Work, and Self (00:36:56)

Support Systems & Community (00:52:04)

New Relationship & Blended Family (00:44:53 & 00:53:21)

Surrendered Motherhood & Current Iteration (01:01:08)

Sibling Dynamics & Savouring the Present (01:07:44)

Letting Go of Pressure & Embracing Change (01:13:41)

Demystifying Motherhood & Final Thoughts (01:17:21

Episode Wrap-Up & Resources (01:20:25)

Links

• Momwell: Therapists trained in supporting mothers
• The WOMB
• Writers Collective of Canada

Connect with Ashley on IG (@ashleybcoach) or LinkedIn
Cover Art: Abigail Murphy Photography

In this episode of "Motherhood Unveiled," host Ashley converses with her long-time friend Caitlin Thompson, a queer single mother of two. Caitlin shares her complex journey through motherhood, discussing fertility struggles, conception, home birthing. She highlights the importance of intentionality in family creation and the emotional complexities of motherhood. Caitlin also reflects on her mental health, sobriety, and the impact of her separation. The episode underscores the significance of community, self-awareness, and embracing both the joys and challenges of parenting.

Meet Caitlin

Caitlin is a queer, single mother of two spicy Aries kiddos and is flying by the seat of her pants! She tries her best to be intentional and present in her parenting but some days she is truly just trying to get through until sweet, sweet bedtime. She loves to get outdoors and relish in the tranquility of nature. She is a sourdough baker, a mediocre poet, a hockey player, a camper and an aspiring hippie spiritual earth goddess with quite the case of ADHD. She is a trauma survivor and constantly in the process of learning, healing, growing and trying to keep her sh*t together. 

Links & Mentions

1. Queer family book recommendations: 

• What Makes a Baby (Cory Silverberg)
• Zak’s Safari: A Story about Donor-Conceived Kids of Two-Mom Families (Cristy Tyner)

2. Sobriety resources:

• Quit Like a Woman: The Radical Choice to Not Drink in a Culture Obsessed with Alcohol (Holly Whittaker)
• Push Off f

Connect with Ashley on IG (@ashleybcoach) or LinkedIn
Cover Art: Abigail Murphy Photography

In this episode of "Motherhood Unveiled," host Ashley welcomes Aimee Lucido, an author and puzzle maker, to share her profound journey through motherhood. Aimee discusses her struggles with conception, pregnancy, and postpartum challenges, including her battle with pregnancy & lactation osteoporosis. She candidly talks about the emotional rollercoaster of trying to conceive, severe morning sickness, and the complexities of postpartum life. Aimee emphasizes the importance of storytelling as a coping mechanism and highlights the support from her family. The episode aims to inspire listeners by showcasing the resilience and strength that motherhood can evoke.

Meet Aimee

Aimee is a working mom trying to balance taking care of a 1.5 year old human, 5 year old dog, and 41 year old husband on top of managing her own writer and puzzlemaker career. She's moved twice in the past year, lived with her parents for five months while recovering from postpartum injuries, but is finally feeling like they've got their heads on straight. Professionally, Aimee is a maker of crossword and trivia puzzles. Her work is often published in The New York Times, The New Yorker, Scientific American, and AVCX, among many others. She is the games editor at Bloomberg. She is also the author of the middle grade novels EMMY IN THE KEY OF CODE and RECIPE FOR DISASTER, as well as the brand-new picture book PASTA PASTA LOTSA PASTA, chapter book, LUCKY PENNY, and the upcoming middle grade novel WORDS APART. Outside of being a mom and working, Aimee likes to run, hike, do yoga, play pub trivia, eat, and sleep. 

Amy's Background (00:01:24)  

Amy Introduces Herself (00:02:34)  

Discussion on Puzzles (00:03:19)  

Lyra's Name Story (00:06:20)  

Journey to Motherhood (00:06:35)  

Injury and Diagnosis (00:07:34)  

Fertility Challenges (00:09:44)  

Sperm Test Results (00:10:44)  

Transition to IVF (00:12:42)  

Pregnancy Success (00:13:49)  

Labor Experience (00:15:01)  

Postpartum Reflections (00:17:27)  

Emotional Rollercoaster (00:18:10)  

Anxiety and Insomnia (00:19:35)  

The Journey of Uncertainty (00:20:36)  

The Challenge of Morning Sickness (00:21:24)  

Parenthood and Anxiety (00:22:22)  

Postpartum Adjustments (00:22:27)  

Conflicting Medical Advice (00:23:24)  

The Importance of Rest (00:24:25)  

Seeking Help from Neighbors (00:25:18)  

The Return of Pain (00:26:19)  

Emergency Room Visit (00:27:22)  

Breastfeeding Challenges (00:28:25)  

The Search for Answers (00:29:23)  

Moving to New York (00:36:11)  

Improving Health and Quality of Life (00:37:18)  

Resilience and Problem-Solving (00:39:06)  

Self-Discovery (00:41:23)  

The Power of Motherhood (00:41:40)  

Pushing Limits (00:42:28)  

The Journey of Motherhood (00:43:12)  

Finding Joy in Parenting (00:44:48)  

Learning from Children (00:45:43)  

New Experiences (00:47:53)  

Silver Linings in Challenges (00:48:47)  

The Power of Storytelling (00:50:45)  

Shared Experiences of Parenthood (00:53:05)  

Dispelling Myths of Motherhood (00:56:08)  

Future Hiking Plans (00:59:04)  

Links & Mentions

1. Aimee's blog article: My Daughter Drank My Bones

2. PLO  

3. Aimee’s books

Connect with Ashley on IG (@ashleybcoach) or LinkedIn
Cover Art: Abigail Murphy Photography

In this episode of "Motherhood Unveiled," host Ashley welcomes Adrianne Largo, a marketing executive with over 25 years of experience. Adrianne shares her journey through motherhood, discussing her miscarriage, the challenges of balancing a driven career with parenting, and the lessons she's learned about control and acceptance. The conversation covers the emotional impact of her miscarriage, the complexities of postpartum care influenced by her Chinese heritage, and the pressures of cultural expectations. Adrianne's candid reflections highlight the importance of patience, self-acceptance, and the unique, often challenging, experiences that come with motherhood.

Meet Adrianne

Adrianne is the mother to a 9 year old son, a wife of 10 years, a restaurant marketer, brand leader and aspiring executive coach who, after over 25 years in the restaurant business, is currently on the slow transition to becoming an executive coach to help others find career flow.  Outside of work and parenting, Adrianne loves sleeping, movies and hanging out with friends.

Introduction to Motherhood Unveiled (00:00:04)  

Meet Adrianne Largo (00:02:00)  

The Dichotomy of Control (00:03:45)  

The Journey of Acceptance (00:05:03)  

Miscarriage Experience (00:05:56)  

Camping During Miscarriage (00:07:12)  

Navigating Medical Challenges (00:08:51)  

Emotional Impact of Loss (00:09:39)  

Second Pregnancy and Control Issues (00:11:01)  

Induced Labor Experience (00:12:07)  

C-Section and Loss of Control (00:14:00)  

Breastfeeding Struggles (00:15:01)  

Cultural Practices in Postpartum Care (00:15:55)  

Confined to Home (00:20:11)  

The Purpose Behind Confinement (00:22:22)  

Postpartum Care Choices (00:22:37)  

Control in Motherhood (00:23:09)  

First Words to Son (00:23:28)  

Love and Acceptance (00:25:09)  

Toxic Messaging in Motherhood (00:27:05)  

Different Expressions of Love (00:29:19)  

Reality of Parenting (00:30:21)  

Control and Expectations (00:31:05)  

Lessons from Children (00:32:26)  

Judgment and Guilt (00:34:52)  

Painful Pregnancy Experience (00:35:43)  

Letting Go of Control (00:38:14)  

Coaching and Support (00:39:16)  

Navigating Child's Struggles (00:40:32)  

Worrying About the Future (00:44:17)  

Grounding Techniques (00:45:31)  

Personal Growth Through Motherhood (00:46:40)  

Positive Intelligence and Mindset (00:47:08)  

Motherhood as a Catalyst for Change (00:48:00)  

Children's Insight and Wisdom (00:49:48)  

Finding Common Interests (00:52:18)  

The Stages of Motherhood (00:53:25)  

Trusting the Process (00:55:21)  

Debunking Motherhood Myths (00:57:36)  

Emotional Complexity of Motherhood (01:00:28)  

Final Thoughts on Motherhood (01:01:48)  

Resources

• Positive Intelligence course
• Momwell: Therapists trained in supporting mothers
• The WOMB : Holistic support services for mothers

Connect with Ashley on IG (@ashleybcoach) or LinkedIn
Cover Art: Abigail Murphy Photography

In this episode of "Motherhood Unveiled," host Ashley explores the diverse experiences of motherhood with guest Shannon Blacker. Shannon, an HR professional, shares her journey, including her marriage, career, and struggles with fertility and health challenges. Despite not having children, Shannon reflects on her role as a dog mom and supportive aunt, emphasizing the broader spectrum of motherhood. The conversation highlights societal expectations, the importance of acceptance, and the value of maintaining personal identity and friendships. Through Shannon's story, the episode underscores that motherhood encompasses a wide range of experiences, each valid and worthy of recognition.

Meet Shannon

Shannon doesn’t have any human children; she is the mom of a sweet & adorable 1.5 year old Potcake (dog) from St. Lucia. Her name is Kiwi and she is the light of their household. Shannon and her husband are both amazing dog parents and consider themselves lucky to have such well behaved and easy fur babies.  She loves to spend time with friends and family, hike, golf, travel, and she’s recently taken up pickleball! Shannon has spent most of her career in HR in some form or another. She’s been with the same company - a global agribusiness for 17 years now. She loves working with people at all levels of the organization and helping them thrive in their work and career. Recently Shannon graduated from the Graduate Certificate program in Executive Coaching at Royal Roads University.

Timestamps

Understanding Motherhood Beyond the Binary (00:01:17)  

Introducing Shannon Blocker (00:02:26) 

Shannon's Background and Connection to Motherhood (00:03:22)  

Shannon's Relationship with Friends (00:05:31)  

Shannon's Dog Kiwi (00:06:58)  

Shannon's Journey with Motherhood (00:09:19)  

Health Challenges and Fertility (00:10:51)  

Struggles with Pregnancy and Miscarriage (00:12:44)  

Exploring Adoption and Family Dynamics (00:17:19)  

Facing Health Issues and Cancer Diagnosis (00:19:37)  

Reflections on the Journey (00:21:54)  

Double Income No Kids (00:23:02)  

The Mushy Middle (00:23:09)  

Struggles with Fertility (00:24:04)  

Power of Storytelling (00:25:24) 

Health Care Advocacy (00:25:36)  

Societal Expectations (00:27:16)  

Life in Vancouver (00:28:24)  

Feeling Different (00:29:51) 

Biological Clock Pressure (00:31:02)  

Regrets and Guilt (00:31:02)  

The Need for Community (00:37:30)  

Existential FOMO (00:40:26)  

Listening to Each Other (00:41:05)  

Finding Purpose (00:44:08)  

Trusting the Journey (00:45:59)  

Acceptance of Decisions (00:46:35)  

The Nature of Acceptance (00:47:03)  

Myths About Motherhood (00:49:41)  

Friendship and Motherhood (00:52:20)  

Gratitude for Sharing Stories (00:53:53)  

Closing Thoughts (00:54:31)  

Show Notes & Links

1. https://helpaws.com/ - founded by a hugely inspirational Canadian woman Charlene Penney Troubetzkoy
2. Hyperplasia:  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16569-atypical-endometrial-hyperplasia or here is a canadian link:  https://cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-types/uterine/what-is-uterine-cancer/precancerous-conditions
3. Lynch Syndrome: 

Connect with Ashley on IG (@ashleybcoach) or LinkedIn
Cover Art: Abigail Murphy Photography

In this episode of "Motherhood Unveiled," host Ashley engages in a heartfelt conversation with Jennifer Bloch, an executive coach and mother. Jennifer shares her 14-year journey to motherhood, marked by struggles with infertility and emotional turmoil from failed adoption attempts. She recounts her labor experience and the complex emotions of forming a bond with her newborn. The discussion highlights societal pressures on mothers and the importance of trusting one's instincts. Jennifer emphasizes the need for community support and validation among mothers, urging them to share their unique stories and uplift one another.

Meet Jennifer

As a mom, Jennifer's goal is to raise an independent self-reliant child who will thrive in life, be resilient motivated, and determined to succeed in anything she sets her mind to.  Also as a mom, she describes herself as too controlling, constantly teaching, constantly correcting, living too far in the future for what she probably needs.  Which may result the opposite behaviours of what she's looking for.  It took her a very long time to have a child and still, after seven years, she's adjusting to life with a child because every milestone is a new adventure.  Outside of being a mom, Jennifer works as an executive coach. Her business's mission is to help society to communicate more effectively with one another so that we can solve problems instead of constantly fight about them.  She also likes to have some time to spend with her husband, and craves space for herself to manage her chronic pain and improve her mental and physical health.

Timestamps

Introduction to Jennifer Bloch (00:00:04)  

Jennifer's Emotional Labor Experience (00:06:01)  

The Roller Coaster of Infertility (00:12:45)  

The Decision to Move On (00:17:42)  

The Last Wish at the Trevi Fountain (00:22:05)  

Reopening the Door to IVF (00:24:52)  

The Pregnancy Announcement (00:28:59)  

The Bittersweet Revelation (00:31:35)  

Overwhelmed by Choices (00:32:57)  

Family Reactions (00:34:15)  

Mixed Emotions of Motherhood (00:36:40)  

Breastfeeding Challenges (00:39:20)  

The Pressure of Expectations (00:41:33)  

Finding Connection (00:43:29)

Nurturing Instincts (00:46:36)

Balancing Independence and Connection (00:50:01)

The Guilt of Motherhood (00:53:24)

Advice for New Mothers (00:56:09)

The Importance of Trusting Instincts (00:57:40)

Navigating Guilt and Expectations (00:58:45)

The Culture of Competition Among Moms (00:59:56)

Seeking Validation in Motherhood (01:00:33)

Stripped of Moments in Motherhood (01:01:48)

The Complexities of Motherhood Phases (01:04:03)

Challenges of Being an Older Mom (01:06:44)

Feeling Left Out in Parenting Groups (01:07:42)

The Need for Honest Conversations (01:08:28)

The Universality of Motherhood Experiences (01:09:31)

Understanding Others' Stories (01:11:03)

The Impact of Misconceptions (01:12:27)

The Value of Sharing Stories (01:14:25)

Proud Moments in Parenting (01:16:04

Breaking Generational Cycles (01:20:49)

Defining Motherhood Beyond Biology (01:23:29)

The Motherhood Spectrum (01:25:52)

The Sisterhood of Motherhood (01:29:02)

Shared Experiences (01:30:00)

Gratitude for Open Sharing (01:30:20)

Impact of Conversations (01:31:36)

Invitation for Feedback (01:31:52)

Links & Mentions:

Touchpoint Leadership

Connect with Ashley on IG (@_ashley_beatty_) or LinkedIn
Cover Art: Abigail Murphy Photography

In this episode of Motherhood Unveiled, host Ashley converses with Krystal Chong, a holistic anxiety specialist and mother. Krystal shares her journey through motherhood, discussing the emotional complexities, including postpartum depression and anxiety. She emphasizes the importance of being present, letting go of control, and trusting one's intuition. The conversation highlights the evolving identity of mothers, balancing personal fulfillment with parenting, and the societal pressures they face. Krystal's insights offer valuable lessons on self-awareness and the transformative power of motherhood, encouraging mothers to embrace their unique journeys and prioritize their well-being.

Meet Krystal

Krystal Chong is a mental health entrepreneur and the founder of LUMNA and Anxiety Schmanxiety. Previously she was one of the principals running Honey Bun and was instrumental in the company's IPO. She was then a part of the executive team at WhistlePig which was acquired at a 300 M valuation. Wanting to create meaningful change and provide real solutions from her personal journey with anxiety, she then founded Anxiety Schmanxiety. There she developed a holistic, science based program. Using this method, participants consistently report experiencing unprecedented results with anxiety. She currently resides in California with her two children, husband and dog.

Time stamps

Guest Introduction (00:01:19)

Krystal's Identity as a Mom (00:02:56)

Holistic Anxiety Specialist (00:04:04)

Krystal's Children (00:04:50)

Surprises in Motherhood (00:07:57)

Letting Go and Being Present (00:10:40)

Biological Changes in Motherhood (00:13:04)

Intuition in Parenting (00:16:29)

Difficult Emotions and Postpartum Depression (00:17:35)

Shifting Perspectives on Life (00:19:24)

Grief and Identity in Motherhood (00:21:30)

The Importance of Self-Fulfillment (00:21:52)

Navigating Identity Loss (00:23:36)

Rebirthing Through Motherhood (00:24:39)

Emotional Challenges of Transformation (00:25:49)

Health Challenges in Pregnancy (00:26:13)

Balancing Work and Motherhood (00:27:43)

Redefining Success (00:31:22)

The Fragility of Life (00:36:26)

Expectations and Self-Compassion (00:42:23)

The Importance of Balance in Motherhood (00:43:47)

Growth as a Non-linear Journey (00:44:17)

Personal Experiences with Different Stages (00:45:00)

Lessons from "The Conscious Parent" (00:45:30)

Feminine vs. Masculine Energy in Parenting (00:46:51)

Seeking Help and Support (00:47:57)

Ripple Effects of Motherhood (00:48:09)

Generational Impact of Motherhood (00:48:32)

Personal Choice in Family Planning (00:49:00)

Sensitivity and Motherhood (00:49:52)

Navigating Pressure to Conform (00:51:50)

Understanding Highly Sensitive People (00:53:16)

Juxtaposition of Maternal Role Models (00:56:42)

Finding Balance in Motherhood (01:00:19)

Community Support in Motherhood (01:02:01)

Diverse Perspectives on Motherhood (01:03:03)

Demystifying the Joy of Motherhood (01:04:40)

The Fulfillment Beyond Joy (01:05:15)

The Importance of Presence (01:06:08)

Witnessing Their Joy (01:07:01)

Letting Go of Resistance (01:07:59)

Creating Space for Reflection (01:08:49)

Gratitude for the Conversation (01:09:24)

Links & Mentions

Lumna

Connect with Krystal @krystalchong or @lumnalife

Connect with Ashley on IG (@ashleybcoach) or LinkedIn
Cover Art: Abigail Murphy Photography