The Parenthood and Relationship Podcast | Matrescence | Relationship after baby | Motherhood life

The Parenthood and Relationship Podcast | Matrescence | Relationship after baby | Motherhood life

By Markella Kaplani - Clinical-Counseling Psychologist | Parenthood & Relationship Coach | Matrescence ExpertSociety & CultureHealth & FitnessMental HealthRelationshipsParentingKids & Family
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The Parenthood and Relationship Podcast | Matrescence | Relationship after baby | Motherhood life episodes

  • Reparent Yourself: Befriending Your Inner Critic to Achieve Gentle Parenting & Heal Generational Trauma | Ep. 39

    Parenthood isn’t just about raising kids – it’s about rewriting your relationship with yourself.


    In this transformative episode, we explore how gentle parenting starts from within.

    If you’ve ever wondered why staying calm with your kids feels impossible some days, the answer lies in your inner critic.

    Together, we uncover how your past parenting experiences shape the way you treat yourself – and how that impacts your children.

     

    Through heartfelt stories and actionable steps, this episode dives deep into:

    • The secret connection between self-compassion and parenting success.
    • Why your inner child resists change – and how to heal it.
    • Practical tools to reframe self-criticism into growth.
    • By the end, you’ll understand why parenting isn’t just about doing more – it’s about healing yourself to create the family culture you dream of.


      TimeStamps

      00:00 Welcome to Season Two!

      01:29 The Power of Gentle Parenting

      07:23 Understanding Self-Criticism

      12:51 Breaking the Cycle of Self-Criticism

      34:18 Practical Steps for Self-Compassion

      47:36 Final Thoughts and Weekly Challenge


      ---

      Full Transcript HERE

      —

      Want to take our relationship to the next level?
      👉Here are my top Resources

      📩 Get in touch with me
      instagram.com/markella.kaplani
      www.markellakaplani.com

      🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review!

      Your support means the world!

      ---

      Markella Kaplani, M.A.

      Clinical-Counseling Psychologist

      Parenthood & Relationship Coach

      www.markellakaplani.com

      50 min
    • Motherhood, Boundaries, and Breaking Generational Patterns: Identity, Anxiety, & Letting Go of Control with Gavie Remaly | Coaching Session #4 | Ep. 38

      In this coaching session, we explore the complexities of motherhood, identity shifts, and breaking generational patterns with Gavie Remaly, boundaries advocate and host of The Blissfully Bold Podcast.


      Together, we delve into the struggles working moms face, from navigating anxiety and control to balancing work, family, and self.

      This episode unpacks the emotional challenges of parenting, including how childhood patterns shape our current roles as parents.

      Gavie shares her journey of discovering "micro-journaling," a simple yet impactful tool for setting boundaries and finding clarity amidst the chaos of motherhood.

      Along the way, we uncover the transformative power of self-compassion, letting go of guilt, and creating a safe space for emotional growth.

      Whether you’re a mom seeking balance or a partner striving to understand and support, this episode offers actionable advice, relatable moments, and profound insights into building deeper connections within your family.

      Ways to Connect with Gavie Remaly:

      Podcast: The Blissfully Bold Podcast
      Instagram: @gavie.remaly
      DM her to learn more about micro-journaling and boundary-setting.

       

      ---


      Full Transcript HERE.
      —

      Want to take our relationship to the next level?
      👉Here are my top Resources

      📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: [email protected])
      🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review!
      Your support means the world!

      ---

      Markella Kaplani, M.A.

      Clinical-Counseling Psychologist
      Parenthood & Relationship Coach
      www.markellakaplani.com

       

      58 min
    • The 4 Types of Connection & Ways to Rekindle the Romance with Dr. Adam Dorsay | Ep. 37

      In this insightful episode, we dive into the art of cultivating connection with Dr. Adam Dorsay, licensed psychologist, executive coach, and author of Super Psyched. This conversation is packed with strategies for strengthening relationships, especially for couples navigating the challenges of parenting. Dr. Dorsay shares actionable advice on reconnecting with your partner and the importance of emotional connection in building a thriving relationship.

      As we explore the shifts that occur in family life, Dr. Dorsay emphasizes how couples can maintain intimacy in marriage and balance the demands of parenthood and relationship. Listeners will gain practical tools for improving family dynamics and creating lasting bonds. Whether you are a parent looking to rekindle romance or simply seeking deeper connections, this episode delivers heartfelt and practical solutions.

      Dr. Dorsay delves into the significance of relationship advice for parents and the power of small actions in improving family communication. He provides tangible examples of how partners can support each other while also fostering strong bonds with their children. Tune in for extremely effective, yet simple techniques for navigating relationship changes and sustaining strong family bonds.

      One of the highlights of this discussion is maintaining intimacy after kids. Dr. Dorsay introduces creative approaches to keep passion alive, helping couples reconnect and enjoy a fulfilling relationship. These strategies align beautifully with his insights on enhancing marital satisfaction and ensuring that couples feel united even amidst the chaos of family life.

      If you’re ready to explore the keys to cultivating connection and living with greater vitality, this episode is for you!

      Ways to Connect with Dr. Adam Dorsay:

      • Book: Super Psyched
      • Podcast: SuperPsyched
      • Website: DrAdamDorsay.com
      • Don’t miss this powerful conversation on love, connection, and family!

        ---


        Full Transcript HERE.
        —

        Want to take our relationship to the next level?
        👉Here are my top Resources

        📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: [email protected])
        🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review!
        Your support means the world!
        ---

        Markella Kaplani, M.A.

        Clinical-Counseling Psychologist
        Parenthood & Relationship Coach
        www.markellakaplani.com

         

        1 hr 12 min
      • 5 Steps to Reset Parental Burnout | Parenting Burnout Symptoms & Treatment | Ep. 36

        Parenting is one of the most fulfilling roles, but let’s face it—it’s also one of the most exhausting. If you’ve ever felt completely drained or like you’re barely keeping up, you might be experiencing parental burnout. And no, it doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you’ve been giving your all without taking time to refill your own cup.

        In this episode, we’re getting real about parenting burnout—what it looks like, how it sneaks up on us, and what you can do to reset. Whether you’re navigating new parent tiredness, the demands of being a working mom, or even the silent struggles of mom burnout / dad burnout, I’ve got you covered.

        We’ll explore:

        ✨ Parental burnout signs in everyday life.
        ✨ Why things like exhausted mother syndrome or feeling like a tired parent don’t mean you’re weak—it’s a sign to pause.
        ✨ How to reset parental burnout symptoms create a realistic self-care routine for moms (and dads) to reset and reconnect.

        I’ll walk you through practical tips for how to recover from parental burnout, including redefining your expectations, building better boundaries, and finding small, doable ways to bring joy back into your day.

        Parenting doesn’t come with an instruction manual, but burnout happens when we pour from an empty cup for too long. This episode is your permission slip to hit reset—not just for your family, but for YOU.


        🎧 Tune in now to learn how to navigate parenting burnout stages, avoid future overwhelm, and start showing up for yourself as much as you do for everyone else. Because you’re not just a parent—you’re a person who deserves care, too.


        ---

        Full Transcript HERE.
        —

        Want to take our relationship to the next level?
        👉Here are my top Resources

        📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: [email protected])
        🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review!
        Your support means the world!
        ---

        Markella Kaplani, M.A.

        Clinical-Counseling Psychologist
        Parenthood & Relationship Coach
        www.markellakaplani.com

        37 min
      • How to be a Great Parent: Forgive YOUR Parents Using my 5-Step Formula! | Effective Parenting | Ep. 35

        Do you ever feel like old wounds from your childhood and resentment toward your parents are getting in the way of you being a great parent?


        Many people struggle with the question of how to forgive your parents because deep inside we all know that it is a stepping stone toward effective parenting.

        But we are held back by our fear that letting go of the anger and grievances will act as an excuse or a permission slip for more mistreatment. In an attempt to protect us, our inner child refuses to move forward in fear of getting hurt all over again.

        In this episode we uncover:
        🧠 How childhood experiences impact how we parent today
        ❤️ How forgiveness helps us parent with clarity and intention
        🔑 Practical steps to break generational cycles without losing ourselves

        Whether you’re replaying your parents’ patterns or bending over backward to avoid them, the past can feel like an emotional weight.

        Forgiveness lightens that load, creating space for joy, connection, and a healthier family dynamic. 🫂

        Click play to listen in as we dive into actionable steps, from acknowledging your hurt to deciding what values to keep and what to let go of.

        Forgiveness isn’t about your parents—it’s about you and the freedom it brings.

        ---
        Full Transcript HERE.
        —

        Want to take our relationship to the next level?
        👉Here are my top Resources

        📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: [email protected])
        🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review!
        Your support means the world!

        ---

        Markella Kaplani, M.A.

        Clinical-Counseling Psychologist
        Parenthood & Relationship Coach
        www.markellakaplani.com

        44 min
      • Wondering How to Rekindle a Relationship After Children? 3 Stages to “Cure” Lack of Intimacy after Baby | Ep. 34

        Are you feeling a distance between you and your partner after welcoming your little one? You're not alone. In this week’s episode, we delve into the real struggles of rebuilding intimacy after baby.


        Parenthood brings immense joy, but it also introduces unexpected relationship changes that can leave you feeling disconnected.

        Join me as we uncover the journey from exhaustion to connection. We explore why intimacy after children often takes a back seat and how to navigate these parenthood challenges without feeling hurt or misunderstood.

        Discover practical steps for restoring closeness and reconnecting with your partner amidst sleepless nights and endless responsibilities. Learn how emotional connection and open communication in relationships can reignite the spark you thought was lost.

        ✨ In this episode, we explore:

             ❤️ How to understand and adapt to relationship changes after baby

             🤗 Small but powerful ways to rebuild emotional connection

             🗣️ The importance of open communication in overcoming intimacy issues

             🌟 Steps to restore closeness without adding pressure

             💞 Embracing a new normal in your relationship journey


        Don't let the joys of parenthood overshadow the love story that started it all. It's time to rekindle the flame and embrace the journey of overcoming intimacy issues together.

        This episode is not just a new parents guide; it's a warm, yet realistic conversation about love, understanding, and the courage to rebuild.

        Your relationship deserves this attention. Let's walk this path together and transform challenges into a deeper emotional connection than ever before.

         

        Tune in and take the first step toward a stronger, more intimate relationship today.


        ---


        Full Transcript HERE.
        ---

        📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: [email protected])
        🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review!
        Your support means the world!
        ---

        Markella Kaplani, M.A.

        Clinical-Counseling Psychologist
        Parenthood & Relationship Coach
        www.markellakaplani.com

        44 min
      • Balancing Motherhood and Career: Overcoming Mom Guilt and Finding Purpose | Work Life Balance Mom | Ep. 33

        Are you struggling to balance motherhood and career aspirations? You’re not alone. In this emotionally charged episode, we sit down with childbirth educator and doula, Hannah Gill, to unpack the deep identity shifts moms face.


        From grappling with mom guilt to redefining success, Hannah’s story speaks to anyone who has felt torn between being present for their children and pursuing their own passions.

        Together, we explore:

        • The unspoken pressures moms face as they try to “do it all.”
        • How unresolved childhood dynamics and birth trauma influence our adult decisions.
        • Why compassionate self-reflection is key to overcoming internal conflicts.
        • Hannah also shares her journey from experiencing a traumatic C-section to transforming that pain into a meaningful career helping other women. Her vulnerability will leave you inspired to navigate your own struggles with grace.

          Today, we find out:

          🌟 Why balancing motherhood and career feels so overwhelming
          🍼 How birth experiences can shape our identity
          💔 What happens when we prioritize everyone but ourselves
          💡 Practical ways to reconnect with your true self

          Whether you’re a mother wrestling with mom guilt, a dad seeking to understand your partner better, or someone navigating your own identity shift, this episode offers a wealth of insights.


          —
          Hannah Gill

          Hannah Gill is a childbirth educator, doula, and passionate advocate for empowering women through informed birth choices. Based in Indiana, she specializes in supporting women pursuing vaginal births after cesareans (VBACs) and helping them reclaim their sense of agency during the birthing process. Through her work, podcast, and educational resources, Hannah inspires women to trust their inner strength and make confident, informed decisions.

          Website: https://thehannahgill.com

          Free First 3 Steps to VBAC Guide: https://thehannahgill.com/firststeps
          VBAC Guide for Doulas: https://thehannahgill.com/newdoulatips
          Self-study version of my program VBAC Is Your Birth Right: https://thehannahgill.com/course
          Motherhood Flow Podcast: https://thehannahgill.com/podcast

          —

          Learn more about motherhood psychology by listening to  Episode 1 on Matrescence and fatherhood psychology by listening to Episode 4 on Patrescence 

          FREE COURSE on MATRESCENCE: https://www.markellakaplani.com/videoseries


          ---
          Full Transcript HERE.
          ---

          📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: [email protected])

          🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review!
          Your support means the world!
          ---

          Markella Kaplani, M.A.

          Clinical-Counseling Psychologist
          Parenthood & Relationship Coach
          www.markellakaplani.com

          52 min
        • Feeling Left Out as a Dad? 4 Steps to Reconnect for a Happy Marriage after Baby | Fatherhood | Ep. 32

          Parenthood changes everything, doesn’t it? Suddenly, life revolves around the baby, and for many dads, it can feel like they’ve been pushed into the background.


          If you’ve ever felt sidelined, like the affection and attention you once shared with your partner has shifted entirely to the kids, this episode is for you.

          And moms, while this episode speaks directly to dads, it offers insights that benefit you just as much. Many women start to feel as though their husband is jealous of the baby or the kids but the truth lies elsewhere.

          By understanding what your partner might be feeling, you’ll discover ways to navigate these challenges together with empathy.

          Moms often feel overwhelmed and under-supported, and this episode will help you see how to bridge the gap, foster empathy, and reconnect as a team—without adding extra pressure to your already full plate.

          👉 Today, we uncover:

             💔 Why dads often feel invisible after baby
             🌀 The resentment cycle that quietly builds in relationships
             🛠 Tools to help dads reconnect with their partner and role
             ❤️ How small shifts create big changes in your connection

          Parenthood doesn’t have to mean drifting apart.

          Whether you’re a dad feeling unappreciated or a mom looking to better understand your partner’s perspective, this episode is packed with practical tips to bring you closer.


          —
          Mentioned Resources

          1. Couples’ Communication Checklist

          2. Reconnect With Her CHALLENGE



          ALSO, learn more about men's psychology in parenthood [Episode on Patrescence] as well as moms' psychology [Episode 1 on Matrescence]

          ---

          Full Transcript HERE.
          ---

          📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: [email protected])
          🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review!

          Your support means the world!
          ---

          Markella Kaplani, M.A.

          Clinical-Counseling Psychologist
          Parenthood & Relationship Coach
          www.markellakaplani.com

          38 min
        • Resentment in Marriage: How Parenthood Brings up Old Wounds and Unresolved Issues | Fatherhood | Ep. 31

          Resentment can be a silent weight in many relationships, and for parents, it often feels intensified.


          In this episode, we dive into the roots of resentment in marriage, exploring how parenthood can uncover unresolved emotional wounds that surface when life becomes busier and more demanding.

          Whether it’s unspoken needs going unmet or feeling like one partner is carrying more of the load, resentment can subtly shift how we view each other and impact our closeness.

          Today we find out why resentment builds, especially after having kids, and how it’s often a signal that something important needs attention. 🧠


          More specifically, we take a look at:

          • 💔 How resentment forms when life feels unbalanced
        • 🔍 The surprising role old wounds play in current frustrations
        • ❤️ Practical steps to address resentment and reconnect
        • 💡 Ways to build a partnership that feels fulfilling and balanced
        • This conversation isn’t about blame. It’s about creating a more connected, compassionate partnership and breaking free from resentment’s cycle so you both feel supported.


          I hope you’ll join me!


          —
          Mentioned Resources

          1. Google: John and Julie Gottman - Relationship experts who research what makes a healthy relationship.

          2. Couples’ Communication Checklist

          3. Reconnect With Her CHALLENGE 



          ALSO,

          Learn more about your psychology in fatherhood [Episode on Patrescence] as well as your partner’s [Episode 1 on Matrescence]


          ---
          Full Transcript HERE.
          ---

          📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: [email protected])

          🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review!
          Your support means the world!
          ---

          Markella Kaplani, M.A.

          Clinical-Counseling Psychologist
          Parenthood & Relationship Coach
          www.markellakaplani.com

          46 min
        • Worried About Your Wife's Fatigue? 4 Causes of Mom Burnout & Practical Ways to Support Her | Episode 30

          Curious about why your partner is so exhausted despite the help you offer?


          This episode delves into the unseen layers of mom fatigue and provides compassionate strategies to help you support her better whilst acknowledging the tough situation you, too, are in.

          We’ll explore the emotional and mental loads that weigh heavily on mothers, and how you, as a partner, can make a meaningful difference in her daily life.

          This episode is packed with insights to help you bridge the gap in understanding, improve communication, and bring renewed connection to your relationship.

          What You’ll Discover:

          • Why mom fatigue goes beyond physical tiredness and how it impacts your relationship
        • The reasons why you may be triggered and hurt by her exhaustion
        • How societal expectations and “the invisible load” affect her energy levels
        • Practical tips to offer meaningful support without overwhelming or triggering her
        • Ways to reconnect with empathy and strengthen your bond as co-parents
        • How understanding her needs can also bring fulfillment to you
        • Discover small, powerful actions that can make a huge difference in how she feels — and in the strength of your partnership.


          Listen in for actionable insights and start building a more connected, resilient relationship.

          ---
          Reconnect With Her CHALLENGE
          ---

          Episode 1 on Matrescence (Apple player)
          Episode on Patrescence (Apple player)
          ---

          Full Transcript HERE.
          ---

          📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: [email protected])
          🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review!
          Your support means the world!
          ---

          Markella Kaplani, M.A.

          Clinical-Counseling Psychologist
          Parenthood & Relationship Coach
          www.markellakaplani.com

          48 min

        About The Parenthood and Relationship Podcast | Matrescence | Relationship after baby | Motherhood life

        From the publisher's feed

        Parenthood and maintaining a healthy relationship are ambitious endeavors.