In this episode of Picking Daisies, Mary sits down with Elise—therapist, life coach, and founder of Be Bloomed—to talk about the parts of life we usually keep tucked away. From chronic health struggles and layered grief to the fine line between intuition and anxiety, this conversation is a deep dive into healing, honesty, and showing up as your full self.

Elise opens up about how her own challenges led her to support others through therapy and coaching. Mary shares her experience navigating family dynamics, motherhood, and what it means to keep growing even when life feels heavy. Together, they explore how emotional intelligence, vulnerability, and authenticity aren’t just helpful—they’re healing.

If you're someone who’s ever felt too much, too broken, or just tired of pretending everything’s fine—this episode is for you.

💛 Want to work with Elise? She’s offering Picking Daisies listeners 15% off a single support session with code DAISY at bebloomed.co.

🪻 Follow Elise on Instagram: @elise__dean

Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com

In this episode, Mary sits down with Dr. Jen Wagner and Bethany Scott—hosts of The C-Section Experience podcast—for a raw, honest, and empowering conversation about the side of childbirth that doesn’t always get the spotlight: C-sections.

Bethany, a three-time C-section mom turned doula, and Jen, an OB anesthesiologist with her own Cesarean story, bring both personal experience and professional insight to the table. Together, the three unpack the emotional, physical, and mental layers of Cesarean birth—and why the narrative around it needs to change.

They talk about:

• What it really feels like to have a C-section—emotionally and physically
• The unspoken shame and grief many women experience after
• How maternal care has evolved—and where it's still falling short
• The role of self-advocacy and informed decision-making
• Recovery truths: the shoulder pain, nausea, and that dreaded first poop
• How to find support and feel empowered, no matter how your birth unfolds

This episode is filled with stories, laughter, truth bombs, and heart. Whether you’ve had a C-section, are planning one, or just want to hear what real motherhood sounds like—you’ll walk away feeling seen, heard, and a little less alone.

Because every birth story matters. And it’s time we talk about them.

Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com

In this honest and surprisingly funny episode, I’m joined by Brianna Riser, mom, dental professional, and now VP of Experience at Toothpillow—a brand on a mission to change the game when it comes to pediatric dental health and sleep.

We chat about everything from early orthodontic intervention (yes, it matters way more than we think) to how sleep issues and mouth breathing could be impacting your kid’s mood, focus, and development. Brianna breaks it all down without the jargon, shares her personal “why” behind the work she’s doing, and offers real support for parents navigating the confusing and expensive world of dental care.

We also talk about:

• Why sleep apnea is more common in kids than we realize
• How cultural habits, diet, and access all play into oral health
• The mental load of motherhood and why dental care becomes one more thing on the list
• Toothpillow’s mission to educate, empower, and support families
• And the very real possibility that my husband and I will have to sell feet pics to afford our kids’ future braces

Whether you’re a seasoned mom or still Googling “when do baby teeth fall out,” this episode is packed with info, empathy, and reminders that you’re not alone in trying to figure it all out.

Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com

In this heartfelt and honest conversation, Emily and Mary open up about the complexities of motherhood—from postpartum challenges to sibling dynamics, the pressures of social media, and the ever-evolving journey of self-discovery. They share how playdates have become a new stage in parenting, why embracing the chaos is necessary, and how they’re learning to carve out personal identities beyond motherhood.

Together, they reflect on:

• The emotional rollercoaster of postpartum and the support tools that help
• Navigating sibling relationships and balancing attention
• The double-edged sword of social media in shaping mom identities
• The messy magic of playdates and parenting in real life
• Why personal fulfillment and self-care matter just as much as snack prep and screen-time limits

Key Takeaways:

• Motherhood is an ongoing journey of adjustment and growth
• Social media can connect moms—but also contribute to pressure and comparison
• Chaos is normal in parenting; embracing it brings freedom
• Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s survival
• Promoting a healthy body image starts at home
• Each child—and each mom—has their own unique path
• Support, flexibility, and compassion (for yourself!) go a long way

Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com

In this episode of Picking Daisies, Mary sits down with financial therapist Lindsey Konchar to unpack the emotional side of money. Together, they dive into how our early money stories shape our adult habits, the shame that often surrounds finances, and why open conversations—especially within families—are essential.

Lindsey blends behavioral therapy with practical financial tools to help families, especially stay-at-home parents, rethink their relationship with money. They discuss everything from financial infidelity and money dynamics in relationships to teaching kids how to spend with intention (and yes, even how TikTok Shop fits into it all).

This is more than a budgeting chat—it’s a fresh, honest take on financial self-care, how to spend in a way that feels good, and how to raise financially aware kids without fear or scarcity.

Takeaways:

• Over 90% of Americans experience financial stress—you're not alone.
• Your money story is learned young (by age 10!) but can be changed.
• Intentional spending should create joy and reduce chaos—not shame.
• Stay-at-home parents contribute in ways that deserve recognition and partnership.
• Avoiding money conversations only adds to the stress—especially in relationships.
• Kids can sense financial tension, even if it’s unspoken—so include them.
• Family meetings and honest conversations build trust and confidence.
• Use resources like podcasts to support your journey toward financial peace.

Whether you’re in a relationship, parenting little ones, or just trying to break the cycle of paycheck-to-paycheck living, this episode offers thoughtful, doable steps for anyone ready to shift their money mindset.

Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com

Hi friends! We are back. So sorry for the little pause to help me catch up after one of the worst sick seasons my house has seen.

In this episode of Picking Daisies, Mary sits down with Kristin Revere — doula, podcast host, founder of Gold Coast Doulas, and author of Supported: Your Guide to Birth and Baby — to have a raw and powerful conversation about what it truly means to feel supported in motherhood.

They unpack the critical role doulas play in the birthing and postpartum experience — not just as birth experts, but as compassionate advocates who help women feel seen, heard, and held in one of life’s most transformational moments. From personal stories to generational perspectives, hypnobirthing to loss support, this conversation touches every corner of what support really looks like when you’re growing through what you go through.

They also explore the cultural stigma around asking for help, how education can empower moms, and why support in motherhood should never be treated like a luxury.

Whether you're preparing for birth, healing from it, or just wondering how to show up better for yourself or the people you love — this episode is packed with insight, validation, and a gentle reminder that you don’t have to do it all alone.

TAKEAWAYS:

• Doulas offer critical emotional, physical, and informational support throughout childbirth.
• Hypnobirthing empowers women through positive language and visualization techniques.
• Loss doulas provide vital care and comfort during some of the hardest moments of parenthood.
• Generational beliefs can shape the way we view support in birth and postpartum.
• Doulas help partners feel more prepared and involved in the birthing process.
• New moms often feel isolated — doulas can be a lifeline in those early days.
• Cultural norms often stigmatize asking for help, making support feel like a privilege instead of a right.
• Education about birth options leads to more confident, empowered parents.
• A birth preference sheet helps care teams support the birthing person more intentionally.
• Kristin’s book Supported offers a judgment-free, inclusive approach to navigating pregnancy, birth, and early parenting.

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

• Kristin Revere's book: Supported: Your Guide to Birth and Baby
• Gold Coast Doulas: goldcoastdoulas.com
• Ask the Doulas Podcast

Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com

In this heartfelt and honest conversation, Mary sits down with sleep consultant and mom, Alexa Martinez, to unpack the deeply intertwined realities of sleep, parenting, and mental health. From Alexa’s own battles with postpartum anxiety and insomnia to her personal experience with cancer recovery, this episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of prioritizing both mental and physical well-being in motherhood.

Mary and Alexa explore the polarizing world of sleep training, shedding light on the guilt and confusion many parents feel when it comes to their children’s sleep. They dive into why personalized approaches are key, how sleep (or the lack of it) affects hormone regulation and mental health, and why moms need to stop sacrificing themselves in the name of motherhood.

Together, they share raw, funny, and inspiring moments about navigating post-surgery life, building strong support systems, and learning to ask for help. This episode is a love letter to moms who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure—and a reminder that no parenting question is too silly to ask.

Key Takeaways:

• Alexa shares her personal journey through cancer and recovery.
• Postpartum anxiety and sleep struggles are deeply connected.
• Sleep is essential for regulating hormones and maintaining mental health.
• The conversation around sleep training is often polarizing, but a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work.
• Moms frequently sacrifice their own health and sleep for their children—and it's time to change that.
• Health issues and recovery can significantly shape the parenting experience.
• Strong support systems and open communication with partners are crucial.
• Humor can be healing—even after surgery or during sleepless nights.
• It’s okay to admit when you're done having kids.
• You are allowed to feel overwhelmed, to ask for help, and to trust your instincts.

Resources Mentioned:
Learn more about Alexa, her work, her mission and everything else 

Connect with Mary:
Instagram: @theverymarylife
Podcast Instagram: @pickingdaisiespodcast

Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com

In this episode of Picking Daisies, Mary Hendricks sits down with CEO of Motette, Samantha Gold to discuss the beautiful, messy, and ever-evolving journey of motherhood, entrepreneurship, and personal growth. Samantha shares her experience of launching a new sleepwear brand while raising two young children, and the lessons she’s learned about balance, vulnerability, and building a supportive community.

Together, Mary and Samantha dive into the challenges of relationships and parenting, exploring topics like healthy conflict, therapy, modeling positive habits for children, and the impact of addiction in various forms. They also unpack the power of social media in connecting moms, the importance of seeking fulfillment outside of motherhood, and why it’s okay to embrace the messiness of life instead of striving for perfection.

This conversation is an honest, relatable reminder that we’re all figuring it out together, and that putting yourself out there can lead to deeper connections, personal growth, and even business success.

Takeaways:

✨ Motherhood can feel isolating, but finding a supportive community makes all the difference.
✨ Vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.
✨ Social media can foster real, meaningful connections.
✨ Pursuing your passions outside of motherhood is not selfish—it's essential.
✨ Healthy conflict in relationships teaches kids valuable life skills.
✨ Perfectionism can hold you back in business and life.
✨ Therapy provides accountability and deeper self-awareness.
✨ Parenting often unearths unresolved personal issues.
✨ Addiction isn't just about substances—it can show up in habits like shopping or food.
✨ Investing in yourself leads to growth, confidence, and stronger relationships.
✨ Motherhood is challenging, but no one has to navigate it alone.

💬 Join the conversation! Tag us on Instagram @thepickingdaisiespod and let us know what resonated most with you!

📌 Subscribe & Review: If you love the show, be sure to subscribe and leave a review—it helps us continue sharing real, unfiltered conversations about motherhood and beyond!

🎧 Listen now on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Your Favorite Podcast App

Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com

⚠️ Disclaimer: This episode contains discussions about cannabis use, consumption methods, and its relationship with mental health and motherhood. This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional before making any health or lifestyle changes.

In this fascinating and educational conversation, Mary Hendricks and Riley Kirk, a cannabis educator and scientist, dive deep into the realities, myths, and stigmas surrounding cannabis use, particularly in the context of motherhood, mental health, and wellness.

They explore the differences between edibles, vaporization, and smoking, the importance of terpenes in cannabis effects, and how dosing plays a crucial role in having a positive experience. Mary and Riley also discuss the stigma surrounding cannabis use, the challenges of discussing it with medical professionals, and why education is the key to responsible and informed consumption.

The episode also covers legal considerations, product safety, and common misconceptions about Delta-8, THCA, and other cannabis products that have gained popularity. If you're curious about how cannabis fits into motherhood, mental health management, or everyday wellness, this episode provides a judgment-free, research-backed conversation to help break down the barriers of stigma.

🔹 Key Takeaways:

• Stigma around cannabis use makes it difficult for moms to have open conversations.
• Education is key to safe and responsible cannabis use.
• Dosing matters! The right method and amount can make all the difference.
• Vaporization vs. smoking vs. edibles—understanding the differences.
• Managing overconsumption—what to do if you’ve had too much.
• Finding trustworthy medical professionals who understand cannabis.
• Terpenes impact the effects of cannabis more than just THC levels.
• Legal complexities and product safety—what consumers need to know.
• Cannabis can be a tool for mental health and postpartum experiences.
• Open conversations empower mothers and help normalize responsible use.

💬 Let’s keep the conversation going! Share your thoughts, experiences, or questions by tagging us on Instagram (@thepickingdaisiespod).

📌 Additional Resources:

📚 Educational Resources on Cannabis:

• Leafly (leafly.com) – Cannabis strain information and guides
• Canvast Supply (https://canvastsupplyco.com) *Riley Recommended*
• NAP (www.appliedpharmacognosy.org/) – Research-based cannabis education
• Riley Kirk (@cannabichem on Instagram & TikTok) – Cannabis education & science

📞 If You Need Legal or Medical Guidance:

• NORML (National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws): norml.org
• Medical Marijuana Laws by State: mpp.org
• Find a Cannabis-Friendly Doctor:

Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com

⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions about mental health struggles, including suicide. If this is a sensitive topic for you, please listen with care. If you or someone you know is struggling, resources are listed at the end of this episode. You are not alone.

In this raw and honest conversation, Mary Hendricks and Maddie dive deep into the realities of mental health, motherhood, trauma, loss, and the stigma surrounding medication. They share their personal journeys with bipolar disorder, anxiety, postpartum challenges, and identity shifts in motherhood.

Together, they unpack generational differences in understanding mental health, the physical and emotional weight of anxiety, and why talking about emotions with our children matters. They also explore the intersection of faith and mental health, the impact of personal loss, and the importance of seeking help and finding a supportive community.

This episode is a reminder that mental health is not linear, healing takes time, and no one should feel ashamed for needing help. If you've ever struggled with your mental well-being or felt alone in your journey, this conversation will help you feel seen.

🔹 Key Takeaways:

• Mental health is complex and often misunderstood.
• Medication is not a failure—it's a tool that helps many navigate their struggles.
• Talking to kids about emotions helps break the stigma and generational cycles.
• Loss and grief shape us, teaching hard-earned empathy and perspective.
• There is no one-size-fits-all way to experience postpartum emotions.
• Mothers are more than their roles—your identity outside of parenting matters.
• Community support is essential—no one should go through this alone.

💬 Let’s keep the conversation going! If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend or tag us on Instagram (@thepickingdaisiespod).

📌 If You or Someone You Know Is Struggling, Please Reach Out for Help:

📞 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (U.S.): 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
📱 Crisis Text Line: Text HELLO to 741741
🌍 International Mental Health Resources: Find resources by country
📞 Postpartum Support International: 1-800-944-4773 or text HELP to 800-944-4773
📞 NAMI Helpline (National Alliance on Mental Illness): 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

You are not alone. There is help. There is hope. 💛

Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com