On this episode of The Mothers, Sara talks with Dr. Allison Mell – pediatric physical therapist, founder of Tots on Target, and Mother of four (including twins).

Allison set out to build a career that could coexist with a big family. She studied art history, chose a “practical” path in healthcare, and assumed pediatric physical therapy would offer flexibility – until four kids in 5.5 years made the traditional model untenable.

As she scaled back, she began to see a pattern: parents who sensed something was off, but were being brushed off by rushed appointments and rigid systems. Instead of asking families to contort themselves, Allison built care around real life. Through Tots on Target, she now supports hundreds of thousands of families worldwide with virtual developmental care – offering education, observation, and practical guidance for babies and young children, especially when parents are told to “wait and see.”

This is a conversation about instinct, authority, and remembering that when it comes to your child, you’re the team leader – everyone else works for you.

➡️ Learn more about Dr. Mell and the Tots on Target "Tot Spot Membership" at totsontarget.com

*******

This episode is sponsored by Sage Haus, helping busy households hire vetted, professional House Managers, Family Assistants, and Meal Prep Chefs – whether you need 10 hours a week or 40+.

Learn more at:

👉 https://themothers--sage-haus.thrivecart.com/hiring-services-deposit/

The Mothers earns a small commission from Sage Haus.

⭐️ Follow the The Mothers + leave a 5-star review if it resonated

💬 Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it

📱 Join The Mothers on Instagram @themotherspod

💼 Find Sara on LinkedIn for more perspectives on work, life, and meaning

✍️ Subscribe to Sara’s Substack (coming soon!)

The Mothers is a production of Backline Media.