In this very raw episode (think a good FaceTime between two great friends), Jess (@lowcarbdashian) and Mary dive deep into the multifaceted journey of motherhood. They candidly share their experiences—from the whirlwind of managing one child to welcoming a second, to the emotional challenges of leaving a career to pursue full-time content creation. The conversation is a blend of raw vulnerability, honest reflections, and empowering insights, making it a must-listen for anyone navigating the joys and struggles of parenting.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Transitioning Motherhood:
  • The unique challenges and joys of moving from parenting one child to two.
  • Navigating the chaos and finding moments of balance amid the daily hustle.
• Emotional Journey & Self-Discovery:
  • The impact of societal expectations and personal dreams on the motherhood journey.
  • Dealing with grief over lost dreams and the transformative process of self-discovery.
• Career Changes & Content Creation:
  • The emotional journey of leaving a traditional career to become a full-time content creator.
  • Balancing the creative demands of content creation with the responsibilities of parenting.
• Authenticity & Vulnerability:
  • The importance of being true to oneself in the face of societal pressures and social media portrayals.
  • How authentic sharing can pave the way for deeper connections and community support.
• Community & Connection:
  • Emphasizing the role of community in overcoming challenges and celebrating motherhood.
  • The power of support networks in repairing relationships and fostering solidarity among mothers.
• Body Image & Personal Wellbeing:
  • Discussing the challenges of body image and the journey toward weight loss and self-acceptance.
  • How personal identity evolves in the realm of motherhood and social expectations.

Takeaways for Listeners:

• Embrace the messy, beautiful reality of motherhood—it's filled with both chaos and profound joy.
• Authenticity is key: sharing your struggles and triumphs creates a supportive and understanding community.
• Balancing personal identity with the demands of parenting is a continuous journey that benefits from self-compassion and community connection.
• The evolution from a career-oriented life to full-time motherhood can be challenging but also deeply rewarding when supported by genuine relationships and shared experiences.

Connect With Our Guests:

• Jess (@lowcarbdashian): Follow her journey and insights on social media for more inspiration on balancing healthy lifestyles with real-life parenting.
• Mary Hendricks: Stay tuned for more discussions on navigating the emotional and practical complexities of modern motherhood.

Final Note:
This episode is a powerful reminder that while motherhood can be unpredictable and challenging, it is also an opportunity for growth, healing, and connection. Whether you’re a seasoned parent or just starting out, there’s a piece of this conversation for everyone.

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

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

Okay, so this is definitely not my usual content, but after making a few AI-generated songs for @theverymarylife and seeing the massive response, I figured—why not share the full version here? Since I have no clue how to put it out any other way and I do have a podcast, this seemed like the easiest route.

That said, these are just for fun! AI is wild, but let’s not forget to support real musicians and artists—because when you hear how good this stuff can be, you realize why it might feel like a threat. So enjoy the fun, but don’t forget to keep backing the people who make real magic happen! 🎤✨

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 Elizabeth Madzin for an eye-opening conversation about Lipedema, a chronic fat disorder affecting many women. Elizabeth shares her deeply personal journey, discussing the challenges of diagnosis, the struggle for medical advocacy, and the emotional toll of living with a misunderstood condition.

Together, they explore:
🌼 What Lipedema is and how it affects the body
🌼 The frustrations of being misdiagnosed and dismissed by medical professionals
🌼 Why personal training can be a healing journey beyond just aesthetics
🌼 The emotional and mental toll of chronic illness
🌼 The role of GLP-1 medications and their impact on weight management
🌼 Why advocacy and education about women’s health are so important
🌼 The reality of fitness when diet and exercise don’t yield expected results
🌼 The power of community, supportive relationships, and setting boundaries

This episode is raw, honest, and packed with insights about body image, health, and the journey toward self-acceptance. Whether you or someone you know struggles with Lipedema or another chronic illness, this conversation will leave you feeling more informed, understood, and empowered.

Episode Takeaways:

✔ Lipedema is a misunderstood fat disorder that complicates weight management.
✔ Diet and exercise alone are often ineffective for those with Lipedema.
✔ Medical advocacy is crucial—doctors don’t always have the full picture.
✔ Stress and anxiety can worsen chronic health conditions.
✔ Supportive relationships can be life-changing in a health journey.
✔ Women’s health issues are often overlooked in medical research.
✔ Societal expectations play a huge role in body image struggles.
✔ Finding joy in everyday life is important, no matter your body size or shape.
✔ Community support and shared stories help break down stigmas.
✔ There is hope, help, and healing for those navigating chronic health conditions.

Noted Resources:

1. Dr. Boris Volshteyn
2. Lipedema Foundation
3. Lipedema Mamas Podcast

Listen Now:

🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms!

💬 Join the Conversation: Have you or someone you know experienced challenges in getting a proper diagnosis? Let’s talk about it! Share your story with us on Instagram @thepickingdaisiespod 

📩 Stay Connected: Get exclusive updates, behind-the-scenes content, and additional resources by subscribing to our weekly newsletter.

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

Motherhood is messy, beautiful, exhausting, and rewarding—all at the same time. In this episode of Picking Daisies, Mary Hendricks sits down with Madison Barbosa for an unfiltered conversation about the complexities of parenting in today’s world. From navigating the emotional weight of parenting decisions to the impact of social media, they discuss what it really means to raise children in a time of shifting expectations.

Together, they explore:
🌼 The chaos of early motherhood and why it can feel so overwhelming
🌼 Health concerns in families and why they should never be ignored
🌼 The pressure of social media and how it shapes parenting perceptions
🌼 The guilt and confusion of unexpected pregnancies
🌼 The realities of stay-at-home motherhood vs. societal expectations
🌼 The ongoing debate around gentle parenting and discipline
🌼 Balancing holiday traditions with modern parenting values
🌼 The role of substances like marijuana and alcohol in parenting
🌼 The importance of honesty, humor, and breaking generational cycles

This conversation is as real as it gets—raw, relatable, and full of wisdom. If you've ever felt the weight of parenting or questioned whether you’re doing it “right,” this episode is for you.

Episode Takeaways:

✔ Motherhood is a mix of chaos, love, and exhaustion.
✔ Social media often amplifies parenting struggles and expectations.
✔ Long-distance relationships and unexpected life changes shape families.
✔ Raising multiple children comes with unique joys and challenges.
✔ Gentle parenting isn’t easy, but it’s worth the effort.
✔ It’s okay to acknowledge the hard days and lean on humor.
✔ Screen time, traditions, and discipline are evolving conversations.
✔ Confidence in parenting doesn’t mean you won’t face doubt.
✔ Every parent's journey is unique and should be respected.

Listen Now:

🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts!

💬 Join the Conversation: What part of motherhood has surprised you the most? Share your thoughts with us on Instagram @thepickingdaisiespod

📩 Stay Connected: Don’t miss out on future episodes—subscribe to our weekly newsletter for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more!

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 inspiring episode, Mary Hendricks sits down with fashion expert Katie Kabel to explore the transformative journey of rediscovering personal identity through style, especially for mothers. Together, they discuss how color analysis and intentional dressing can empower women to reclaim their confidence and celebrate their individuality. From navigating identity shifts in motherhood to embracing body changes and finding joy in daily life, this conversation is packed with actionable insights and meaningful reflections.

Katie shares her transition from DJ to fashion expert, uncovering how style can be a tool for self-care and self-expression. They explore the concept of 'dopamine dressing,' discuss the role of color in boosting energy and mood, and encourage women to prioritize their own happiness by dressing with intention. The episode emphasizes the importance of 'bouncing forward' rather than striving to return to a pre-motherhood version of self.

Whether you’re a mom navigating life’s many roles or someone seeking inspiration to embrace your own unique style, this episode will leave you motivated to step into your wardrobe with fresh eyes and renewed confidence.

Key Takeaways:

• Katie Kabel shares her journey from DJ to fashion expert, highlighting the power of personal transformation.
• Color analysis can profoundly impact personal confidence and help women understand their best colors.
• Dressing intentionally can enhance self-image, motivation, and mood.
• 'Dopamine dressing' is a concept that promotes joy through clothing choices.
• Motherhood often overshadows personal identity, but it’s vital to prioritize self-care and individuality.
• Embracing all aspects of womanhood—beyond motherhood—is essential for personal fulfillment.
• Finding joy outside of others and accepting body changes post-pregnancy are crucial steps toward self-acceptance.
• 'Bouncing forward' is a healthier mindset than aiming to 'bounce back.'
• Women are encouraged to explore their personal style without fear, allowing it to evolve with their personal growth.
• Empowerment comes from curating a wardrobe that reflects your unique style and identity.

Links & Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

• Follow Katie Kabel on Instagram
• Work with Katie 
• Picking Daisies Podcast IG Community

Join the Conversation:
We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Share your style transformations, color discoveries, or how you’re embracing the mindset of 'bouncing forward' on social media. Tag us @thepickingdaisiespod with the hashtag #BouncingForward.

Subscribe & Share:
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review to help us reach more women on their journey of self-discovery and growth. Share this episode with a friend who could use a little inspiration to find joy in her wardrobe and life.

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

Well, I wasn't expecting this... but after sharing a little snippet of this song on my stories, I got hundreds of messages asking for the full version. So, here it is! This episode is just for you—whether you're here out of curiosity, love the vibe, or just want to have it on repeat.

I wrote the lyrics, and with a little AI magic, the full song came to life. I hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed creating it. Let me know what you think, and hey, who knows? Maybe there's more music in the future!

Listen, share, and tag me if you love it!

💛 Want more? Connect with me on Instagram @theverymarylife or @thepickingdaisiespod and let me know your thoughts!

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 episode, host Mary Hendricks sits down with Jordan Arogeti, co-founder of Support Now, to explore the intersection of motherhood, mental health, and the transformative power of community. Jordan shares her personal journey as a mom and the inspiration behind creating Support Now, a platform designed to simplify and normalize asking for help during life’s biggest moments. Together, they discuss how societal expectations and shame create barriers to seeking support and how technology can bridge those gaps.

Whether it’s creating a registry for meals, childcare, or emotional support, Support Now is redefining the way families navigate challenges. Mary and Jordan also reflect on how the pandemic emphasized the importance of community and why moms don’t need to do it all alone.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why asking for help can feel so hard—and how to overcome it.
• How Support Now works to reduce the overwhelm families face during major life changes.
• The role of community in improving mental health and emotional well-being.
• How technology is reshaping support networks and making help more accessible.
• Practical ways to create registries for family support.
• Why it’s essential to break the myth of the “do-it-all mom.”
• Lessons from the pandemic on the importance of giving and receiving help.

Key Takeaways:

• Support Now simplifies support for families by offering customizable solutions.
• Motherhood is challenging and often isolating, but community can change everything.
• Overcoming societal shame about asking for help is key to fostering connection.
• Technology offers innovative ways to facilitate care and support.
• Registries aren’t just for weddings and baby showers—they can be lifesavers in hard times.

Resources and Links:

• Visit Support Now
• Stay connected with Mary Hendricks over on @theverymarylife or @thepickingdaisiespod 

Share Your Thoughts:
Have you ever struggled with asking for help? Join the conversation on social media and share your thoughts with Mary! Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode.

Connect with Us:
Follow Picking Daisies Podcast for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more inspiring conversations.

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 Hendricks is joined by Kaitlyn Nilles to unpack the multifaceted roles of motherhood and the challenges of balancing work, family, and personal growth. Together, they explore the transition from corporate jobs to content creation, shedding light on the financial, emotional, and societal pressures moms face every day.

The discussion emphasizes the value of all forms of motherhood—whether working outside the home, staying at home, or navigating entrepreneurship. Kaitlyn shares her journey as a single parent, highlighting the importance of quality time over quantity with kids and the need for self-care and mental health breaks. They also dive into co-parenting, the evolving dynamics of relationships post-divorce, and the empowerment that comes from knowing your worth.

This episode is a candid reminder that no matter what label society places on you, all moms are working moms, and every role deserves recognition and support.

Key Takeaways:

• The Value of All Mothers: Labels like "working mom" and "stay-at-home mom" are limiting and don’t reflect the hard work all mothers do.
• Quality Over Quantity: Time spent with kids doesn’t have to be constant to be meaningful.
• Mental Health Breaks: It’s okay to pause and invest in yourself—your growth benefits everyone.
• Navigating Change: Post-divorce relationships and co-parenting can evolve positively with communication and self-worth.
• Motherhood and Money: Childcare costs highlight the true value of unpaid parenting work.
• Entrepreneurship Reality: Content creation is a mix of passion, unpaid labor, and eventual reward.
• Support Systems: Community and connection are essential for moms navigating modern parenting.
• Social Expectations: Society’s definitions of motherhood need a serious overhaul—let’s celebrate every path moms take.

LINKS MENTIONED:
Listen to the me as a guest on Kailtyn's Podcast, I Didn't Sign Up For This
https://open.spotify.com/episode/02qJz4GpxrudAKZwWawF5m
To follow Kaitlyn: https://www.instagram.com/honestly.kaitlyn/ https://linktr.ee/honestlykaitlyn?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabHwD_S94Ogw4bTo3b7VRirCfzmQXRAH1zTyW0VTy8NI7HzNe6oXB4l8nU_aem_h4XWLVCV3wqyn-AZBmmOvQ

REMEMBER: If this episode resonated with you, don’t forget to subscribe to Picking Daisies and share it with a friend who needs some encouragement. Let’s grow through what we go through, together. 🌼

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

After a year-long hiatus, Mary Hendricks is back with a brand-new season of Picking Daisies! In this deeply personal and reflective episode, Mary shares the journey that led to her break from podcasting and what inspired her return. She opens up about her struggles with mental health, including PMDD and ADHD, and the lessons she’s learned about healing, community, and the power of honesty.

Mary also takes listeners behind the scenes of her podcasting experience, discussing the importance of structure and how embracing both the messy and beautiful parts of life has shaped her approach to this new season.

Get ready for a season of authentic conversations, relatable stories, and heartfelt encouragement as Picking Daisiesreturns with a renewed focus on growth, support, and honesty.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

1. Why Mary took a year-long break from podcasting and what brought her back.
2. The importance of structure in creating engaging content.
3. How PMDD and ADHD have shaped Mary’s personal and professional journey.
4. Why healing is a continuous journey rather than a destination.
5. The value of community and support in navigating life’s challenges.
6. How honesty in conversations can be both liberating and met with resistance.
7. Why it’s essential to embrace the messy, imperfect moments of life.

Key Takeaways:

• Podcasting is like the wild west—anyone can start, but structure is key to success.
• Mental health struggles like PMDD and ADHD are common and should be openly discussed.
• Healing is ongoing; it’s not about perfection but progress.
• Community support is vital for personal growth and resilience.
• Sharing the good, the bad, and the messy parts of life helps foster connection.
• Honesty in conversations may be met with resistance, but it’s worth it.
• Medication can be an effective tool in mental health management.

Connect with Mary Hendricks & Picking Daisies:

• Instagram: [@TheVeryMaryLife]
• Newsletter: [Link to subscribe]

Join the Conversation:
We want to hear from you! What part of Mary’s journey resonated most with you? Share your thoughts on social media and tag us using [#PickingDaisiesPodcast].

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who might need encouragement. Together, we can embrace the mess and grow through what we go through.

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