Have you ever found yourself drowning in the endless to-do list of motherhood and wondered, "Is there a way I could use technology to actually make this easier?" Briana Dai is back for part two of our conversation we started last week, so if you haven’t checked out the first half, go listen to the last episode now!

Briana’s not only a pro at leveraging digital tools for her business and everyday life, she’s passionate about teaching moms and entrepreneurs how to work smarter, not harder—and it shows in everything she does.

We kicked off the conversation talking about just how intimidating (and, let’s be real, a little overwhelming) the whole AI world can seem for moms who are already juggling so much. Briana demystified things by sharing simple, practical ways to get started—like asking AI to help with meal planning, automating emails, or organizing a family schedule. I loved her example of using ChatGPT to whip up dinner with random ingredients or even plan out a postpartum workout plan. She even had me rethinking how these tools can bless our lives right here and now, whether it's prepping for a party, serving neighbors, or getting more family time in the week.

Of course, we didn’t shy away from the tough stuff—like how technology and screens impact our kids. I opened up about raising my own daughters in a digital age, the anxiety around it, and how I’m navigating boundaries and healthy habits, especially after reading "The Anxious Generation." What I love about Briana is that she doesn’t gloss over the challenges; she’s totally real about balancing the benefits of tech while protecting kids’ creativity and emotional health. Her approach is all about teaching that technology is a tool, not an identity—a lesson I’m trying to instill at home, too.

Briana broke down how AI workflows can help you reclaim hours (yes, HOURS!) every week, letting you focus on what matters most.

To gain access to her 15 Minute CEO resource, visit ewn.news/aiflow!

Honestly, this episode is all about giving moms encouragement, practical action steps, and permission to ask for help—even if that help comes from a robot assistant. If you’ve wondered about AI, felt overwhelmed by digital everything, or just want a little more breathing room in your life, this one’s for you. I got you, mama—and so does Briana.

Have you ever stopped to ask yourself what truly matters most when life throws you a curveball you never saw coming? In this episode of We Got You Mama, we explore that question and more as I, Carly Church, welcome the remarkable Briana Dai, VP of Digital Innovation at eWomenNetwork, to share her transformative story. Briana's journey is a testament to how quickly life can shift—and how much wisdom can grow through adversity, resilience, and reinvention.

We kick off the episode with an introduction to Briana’s impressive background, from her successful pivot from celebrity makeup artist to branding and digital marketing expert, all the way to her leadership role in a community that's dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs. But it’s what happened on April 11, 2024—a routine self-care visit turned medical emergency—that becomes the heart of our conversation. Briana Dai bravely takes us through the harrowing details of her near-death experience with lidocaine toxicity, her 1% odds of survival, and the long, uncertain road of relearning how to walk, talk, and live life again.

Together, we dive into how such a profound event can push you to reflect in ways you never expected. Briana talks about facing her own struggles with body image, the pressures of perfectionism, and the lessons she learned about self-acceptance and self-compassion in a society obsessed with "fixing" women after motherhood. Our discussion goes deep into the world of body positivity versus body neutrality, and how giving ourselves and one another grace—and permission to be imperfect—can be truly life-changing.

We also address the invisible load working moms carry, the myth of perfect work-life balance, and the power of setting boundaries to protect the precious moments with our children. Briana offers practical advice for seeking help, delegating, and making peace with the everyday messiness that comes with both motherhood and leadership.

An especially eye-opening part of our conversation deals with the unrelenting cultural and social media pressures on women's bodies after childbirth. Briana shares her strategies for managing what she consumes online, using tools like muting and unfollowing, and how crucial a supportive community of women can be. Her perspective is a breath of fresh air for anyone feeling overwhelmed by unrealistic standards and unsolicited advice.

If you’re looking for an honest, vulnerable, and truly empowering conversation about surviving life’s hardest moments, redefining success, and embracing the chaos of motherhood, this episode is for you. We end on a hopeful note—reminding moms everywhere that you can be present, powerful, and enough, even when life doesn’t feel perfect. Tune in for part one of Briana’s story and walk away with both practical tips and the kind of wisdom that only comes from lived experience.

Did you know that parents in California can actually get six to seven weeks of PAID leave? Not just the 12 weeks you may have thought. On this episode of “We Got You Mama,” I dove into the world of parental leave with special guest Brittney O'Brien, a California parental leave strategist who’s made it her mission to help expecting parents unlock the benefits they’re entitled to. As the host, I introduced Brittney O'Brien as someone you want in your corner: she’s supported over 900 parents since launching her business and comes with two decades of tech startup experience, perfectly positioning her to decode California’s complex leave policies like SDI, PFL, and PDL.

Throughout the episode, we broke down some jaw-dropping facts about U.S. parental leave—or lack thereof—and zeroed in on how California stands out as an exception. Brittney explained what most people get wrong about maternity leave, how the state’s wage replacement program really works, and how you can maximize the time you spend with your newborn. She revealed both the common mistakes parents make when planning their leave and how you can avoid getting shortchanged on those crucial benefits. We also talked about the emotional and financial challenges she sees, the importance of understanding your paystubs, and the power of getting everything in writing with your employer.

Beyond the logistics, Brittney shared her personal path into this advocacy—from her own messy leave experience to her commitment to supporting other families and pushing for much-needed policy change. We also touched on employee rights, advocacy tips, and even the significant impact that extended, supported leave can have on families. If you or someone you know is pregnant, planning to be, or just wants to understand how to get empowered around parental leave, this episode offers actionable steps and real encouragement.

About the Guest:

Brittney O'Brien is a California parental leave strategist who helps expecting parents unlock 6–7 months of paid, job-protected leave without the confusion or overwhelm. After navigating her own messy leave experience, she made it her mission to ensure other families do not have to struggle through the same uncertainty.

With 20 years of experience in tech startups and a deep understanding of California’s SDI, PFL, PDL, and CFRA programs, Brittney turns complex policies into clear, step-by-step plans that actually make sense. Since launching her business last year, she has supported more than 900 expecting parents. She lives in Sacramento, California with her husband and her 3-year-old son, Jackson.

Seeing firsthand how unsupported working parents are in the United States, Brittney views this work as more than a business. It is a grassroots mission. The United States is the only developed country without federally mandated paid leave, and she is committed to helping families navigate a broken system while advocating for long-term change.

Through her signature 1:1 service, The Leave Blueprint, Brittney provides personalized timelines, HR scripts, EDD form reviews, and ongoing support, giving parents everything they need to feel confident, prepared, and financially protected as they welcome their babies.

From Brittney:

Don’t leave months of paid time with your baby on the table.

Book your Leave Blueprint session today and get the exact strategy, forms, and timelines you need to maximize SDI + PFL — stress-free! Feel free to visit her website here to sign up for help: https://stan.store/itsyourleave

You can also follow her on Instagram and TikTok: @itsyourleave

If you’ve ever thought, “I’ll figure out money later… once the kids are older” — this episode is your wake-up call (in the most loving We Got You, Mama way 😉).

In today’s episode, I’m talking with my friend Angela Iacobellis, a life insurance and retirement specialist who helps families and business owners make their money work smarter, not harder.

Angela breaks down what most of us were never taught about:

College savings

Retirement income

Life insurance as a living tool (not just a “when you die” thing)

Why so many moms are underinsured and under-prepared

And how to start fixing all of that now — even if you feel late to the game

We cover:

💰 College savings that don’t wreck financial aid

Why traditional 529 plans can hurt your FAFSA, and how using cash-value life insurance can help you:

Grow money tax-free

Keep it off the financial aid radar

Use it for more than college (study abroad, business start-up, home down payment, etc.)

🛡️ Life insurance as a “Swiss Army knife”

Angela explains how modern life insurance can:

Protect your family if the worst happens

Grow tax-free savings you can access in retirement

Provide “living benefits” if you have a serious illness (like cancer, heart attack, stroke)

Act as your own bank so you can fund big goals without begging a lender

👩‍👧 Why moms MUST be in the money conversation

We talk about:

The very real pattern of women who find out too late that they weren’t protected

The massive wealth transfer coming to women as widows and daughters

Why it’s not enough to say “my spouse handles all that”

Simple first steps to get informed and involved (without needing a finance degree)

💸 Common money mistakes moms make

Including:

Being underinsured (especially stay-at-home or lower-earning moms)

Thinking work life insurance is “enough”

Assuming “we’ll deal with retirement later”

Planning as if nothing bad will ever happen (we hope it doesn’t—but planning like it might)

This is not about fear. It’s about options, peace of mind, and generational impact.

You work way too hard for your family for your money not to be working just as hard for you.

🎁 Angela’s Offer for We Got You Mama Listeners

“If you’re listening and thinking, ‘I should really get my money organized,’ this is your sign — reach out, and we’ll make it simple.”

If you follow Angela and mention this podcast, she’ll send you her free book:

📘 “Smart Strategies for College Savings”

🔗 Connect with Angela

Website: www.angelaiacobellis.com

Instagram: @Angela_iacobellis_la

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelaiacobellisla/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AngelaIacobellisLA

🎙️ About We Got You, Mama

We Got You, Mama is a podcast and show dedicated to helping mamas go from surviving to thriving with expert-backed support on motherhood, mental health, money, relationships, and everything in between. Hosted by author and founder Carly Church, it’s your reminder that you are not supposed to do this alone.

👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with a mama who:

Has no idea where to start with money

Is worried about college costs

Or just needs someone to demystify “adult finance” in normal human language

We got you, mama. 🤍

Today I’m joined by Gwen Bernardo, my personal myofascial release therapist and the founder of Performance Myofascial Release. She’s a myofascial release therapist and pain reduction specialist who helps people release fascial restrictions so they can move, live, and mother with less pain and more freedom.

If you’ve ever thought:

“Why am I always in pain?”

“Why do my headaches never fully go away?”

“Is there anything I can do for my C-section scar, clogged ducts, or pelvic pain?”

“Will I ever sleep again with this snoring partner next to me?”

…this conversation is going to blow your mind (gently, in a nervous-system-safe way 😉).

What we cover in this episode:

▶ What is fascia, really?

Gwen explains fascia as the body’s connective tissue network – running from the top of your head to the bottom of your feet, wrapping around muscles, organs, bones, and more. When it gets restricted (from injuries, surgery, stress, or even emotions), that’s when pain, tension, and “mystery symptoms” show up.

▶ Myofascial Release (MFR) vs. massage, PT, and chiropractic

We talk about why a massage can feel great… for a day… and then your pain returns. True MFR:

Uses NO oils or lotions

Does not glide around the body

Involves sustained pressure in one spot for 5–15 minutes

Works directly with fascial restrictions for deeper, longer-lasting changes

▶ Pregnancy: more space, less pain, easier births

How MFR can help pregnant moms:

Creating more space in the abdomen and pelvis so baby has room to move

Helping balance the pelvis, which may support a smoother vaginal birth

Gently addressing discomfort as ligaments loosen and posture changes

▶ Postpartum: C-section scars, episiotomies & pelvic symptoms

We dive into:

How scars behave like a root system under the skin

Why a “pretty” scar on the outside can still cause major issues underneath

Client stories where releasing C-section scars helped with headaches, back pain, and pelvic symptoms

▶ Mastitis & clogged ducts

Beyond “just massage”: Gwen explains how specific myofascial techniques for breast tissue can:

Help clear clogged ducts

Support mastitis recovery

Be taught as self-treatment so moms can help themselves at home

▶ Babies, toddlers & little bodies

Gentle MFR can support:

Torticollis

Latching issues from jaw tension

Babies & toddlers who snore, grind their teeth, or seem uncomfortable in their bodies

Gwen shares the story of a 2-year-old whose loud tooth grinding and snoring dramatically improved after just a couple of sessions.

▶ Snoring partners & exhausted moms

Yes, she works on snoring! We talk about:

Fascial restrictions in the jaw, tongue, nose, and head

Why gadgets don’t always work if the underlying tissue is tight

How myofascial work can sometimes lessen snoring (and maybe save some marriages and sanity in the process)

▶ How many sessions does it take?

We talk realistic expectations:

Why she often starts with six sessions

The “I won’t say no to the miracle” stories

And why your history (how long you’ve been in pain, surgeries, injuries) matters

▶ A message of hope

If you’ve been told:

“There’s nothing else we can do.”

“It’s all in your head.”

“This is just how it is after kids.”

Gwen wants you to know: there may still be options. Fascial restrictions are often the missing piece in chronic pain and postpartum healing that no one has addressed yet.

About our guest

Gwen Bernardo

Myofascial Release Therapist & Pain Reduction Specialist

Founder, Performance Myofascial Release

She helps clients:

Reduce chronic pain

Improve mobility and flexibility

Address symptoms tied to scars, injuries, pregnancy, and birth

Learn self-treatment tools so they’re not dependent on weekly appointments forever

Learn more & book with Gwen:

Website: https://performancemfr.com

About We Got You Mama

I’m Carly, founder of We Got You Mama – a movement, book, and podcast dedicated to helping moms go from just surviving to truly thriving in motherhood. Here, we combine expert-backed education with real talk, humor, and heart so you feel seen, supported, and equipped.

You’ll find episodes on:

Maternal mental health

Postpartum healing & pelvic floor

Sleep, feeding, and “mom brain”

Clean living, hormones, and nervous system support

And how to build your village in every season of motherhood

Want more support?

👉 Listen & subscribe to the We Got You Mama podcast on your favorite app

👉 Join our community for resources and updates (book, events, tools)

👉 Share this episode with a friend who’s in pain and needs hope + next steps

If this episode resonated, please like, comment, and subscribe. It helps this message reach more mamas who need it.

Hashtags:

#WeGotYouMama #MyofascialRelease #ChronicPainRelief #PostpartumHealing #CSectionScar #MastitisSupport #CloggedDucts #PregnancyPainRelief #PelvicHealth #SnoringSolutions #HeadacheRelief #FasciaHealth #JohnBarnesMFR #WomenInPain #MomsDeserveBetter

Welcome back to We Got You, Mama!

Today we’re going deep on clean living with Emily Velasco, founder of Living the Cleaner Life—a California mom of two (and four dogs!) who helps families remove harmful products from their homes and make practical, sustainable swaps that actually fit real life.

Emily’s journey started when her oldest was six months old back in 2008. After repeated skin sensitivities, she discovered the culprit: chemical-based sunscreens. That wake-up call sent her down the research rabbit hole—learning that many “popular,” heavily marketed baby and personal-care brands weren’t nearly as clean or safe as they claimed. Later, after losing her dad (who had Crohn’s disease and then rectal cancer), Emily made it her mission to help others lower toxic exposures at home and advocate for safer products—not from fear, but from informed, empowered choices.

In this conversation we cover

Clean Living 101: what “clean” really means, what’s marketing (greenwashing) versus genuinely safer products.

Sunscreen truth: why mineral formulas often outperform chemical filters for many families—and how to read the label.

The “fragrance” loophole: why the word “fragrance” or “parfum” on an ingredient list can hide thousands of chemicals—and what to look for instead.

Smart, high-impact swaps: start with what you ingest (lip products) and what sits on your skin the longest (lotion, foundation, eye products, mascara, shampoo).

Home upgrades that matter:

Cookware: avoid PFAS or Teflon; choose stainless steel, cast iron, or ceramic.

Cutting boards: switch plastic to wood, tempered glass, or metal (microplastics are real).

Storage: replace plastic with glass; trade baggies for silicone (such as Stasher bags).

Candles and scent: choose soy, beeswax, or coconut wax with clearly listed essential oils—or use a diffuser.

Laundry: skip dryer sheets and use wool balls (with optional essential oils); pick fragrance-free detergent.

Multi-surface cleaning: simple vinegar plus water works for many jobs; Emily also loves concentrated cleaners that last ages.

Apps and label reading: why EWG can help (and its limits), what rating systems miss (actual concentration), and how to email brands with questions.

Microplastics and indoor air: why focusing on the home is empowering—control what you can and don’t stress about perfection.

Teens and fragrance: finding clean colognes and perfumes (yes, they exist!) and talking about endocrine health.

Real results: fewer headaches, calmer allergies, and the confidence that comes with aligning daily choices to your values.

Emily also shares her experience partnering with Shaklee for supplements, skincare, and home cleaning—including why concentrates (like the beloved “Basic H”) are budget-friendly, low-waste, and versatile, and why a gentle scour cream can be a game-changer on grout, ovens, pans, and even walls.

You don’t have to overhaul everything overnight—start small. Swap the products you use the most and that touch the most skin, and build from there. Your future self (and your kids) will thank you.

Learn more and work with Emily

👉 Website: https://www.livingthecleanerlife.com

Consults available worldwide—simple, personalized plans with zero overwhelm.

Welcome to the We Got You, Mama Podcast! Today, we’re diving deep into motherhood, movement, and mental health with the incredible Jessica Maurer — internationally recognized fitness business consultant, strategist, keynote speaker, and one of the most gifted educators in the wellness space.

Jessica has spent years teaching professionals and moms how to move from burnout to sustainable success — through movement, mindset, and authentic leadership. She’s known for blending science-based insights with mental wellness practices, helping women reconnect with their bodies, strengthen their resilience, and rediscover joy in both life and work.

In this heartfelt, funny, and wisdom-packed episode, we talk about:

✨ The Truth About “Balance”

Why work–life balance is a myth, and how to embrace life’s natural ebb and flow instead. Jess shares her powerful ocean analogy for how to navigate motherhood, career, and self-care without guilt or burnout.

🧠 From Surviving to Thriving

Jess breaks down the difference between “getting by” and truly thriving — and how moms can start shifting their mindset today. Learn how to stop trying to be “all the things for all people” and instead focus on what brings you genuine joy and peace.

💡 Mindset + Habits = Change

Step 1: Give yourself permission to not carry it all.

Step 2: Build joyful habits. Pair what you don’t love (laundry, grocery shopping, taxes!) with something that makes you happy — your favorite playlist, a good show, or a phone call with a friend.

👯 The Power of Connection

Loneliness has become an epidemic for moms, but Jess reminds us that connection doesn’t require a crowd — just one genuine friendship can change everything. She shares practical ways to rebuild your village, from grocery-store chats to rediscovering hobbies that bring community back into your life.

💬 Letting Go of Perfectionism

Together we unpack how comparison and perfectionism are keeping women stuck. Jess offers a refreshing perspective on releasing guilt, embracing imperfection, and redefining what success looks like in motherhood, career, and self-worth.

🏃‍♀️ Movement as Medicine

Why movement is so much more than fitness — it’s mental hygiene. We talk about ten-minute mood boosters, finding your “joy style” of movement, and why your workout doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s.

🍎 Food & Mindfulness That Actually Work

Jess and I laugh through our mutual love of smoothies, “brain-tap” hacks, and mindful housework. She explains how to make nutrition and mindfulness practical — not perfect — and how small changes can bring huge serotonin boosts.

👩‍👦 Motherhood & Redefining Success

Jess opens up about how motherhood reshaped her identity, her career, and her definition of success. From overcoming vanity-driven hustle to prioritizing purpose, joy, and emotional honesty, her story is a must-listen for any mom seeking a healthier, happier path.

💖 The Four Pillars of Thriving Well-being:

1️⃣ Movement (find your joy-style!)

2️⃣ Nutrition (whole foods that you actually enjoy)

3️⃣ Mindfulness (find what works for you — journaling, breathwork, body scans, guided meditations)

4️⃣ Social Connection (build community wherever you are)

No one has it all figured out. The magic lies in giving yourself grace — to ebb and flow, to feel, to cry, to reconnect, and to start again tomorrow.

🪞 What You’ll Walk Away With

Permission to let go of guilt and perfection

Realistic tools to infuse joy into everyday tasks

Inspiration to reconnect with yourself beyond motherhood

Steps to heal from burnout and thrive with intention

A powerful reminder that you are not alone

💬 About Jessica Maurer

Jessica Maurer is a recognized fitness business consultant, strategist, and keynote speaker dedicated to helping professionals overcome burnout and cultivate mental wellness. Through her global workshops, education programs, and leadership training, she helps women move from overwhelm to clarity, resilience, and lasting joy.

📍 Website: https://jhmfitness.com/

📲 Follow Jessica on Instagram: @JessicaMaurerFit

📚 Explore her wellness blog and upcoming workshops on leadership, fitness, and mental health.

💖 Connect with Carly Church & We Got You Mama

🌐 www.wegotyoumama.com

🎧 Follow on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube

💌 Join the Mama Circle for real conversations, expert tips, and support at every stage of motherhood

#JessicaMaurer #WeGotYouMama #MindBodyConnection #MovementIsMedicine #ThrivingNotSurviving #MomMentalHealth #LeadershipInWellness #MindfulMovement #FIT4MOM #HolisticHealth #WomenInWellness #PostpartumSupport #MentalWellness #SustainableSuccess #StrongMoms #motherhoodunfiltered

🔑 Keywords

motherhood burnout, mindset shifts, sustainable success, emotional resilience, leadership for women, movement for mental health, postpartum wellness, mindfulness for moms, thriving after burnout, healthy habits for busy moms, self-compassion, community for mothers, fitness mindset, wellness podcast for moms