New Mexico Momcast

In this episode of the New Mexico Momcast , we sit down with Aimee Pilegrene — devoted mom, wife, top-notch realtor, and self-taught home chef — to talk about the beautiful chaos of balancing it all. Aimee shares how she blends real estate with real life, the joys (and challenges) of feeding a busy family, juggling sports and the little routines that keep her grounded. Tune in for laughs, inspirat...

In this episode, we sit down with the multi-talented Kate Bergeron — an accomplished actor, singer, and dedicated mom — for an inspiring conversation about the art of balancing creativity and motherhood. Kate opens up about her journey in the entertainment industry, how becoming a parent shifted her perspective, and the challenges and joys of wearing many hats (sometimes all at once). From backsta...

In this episode, we sit down with Jess Griego, Chief Operating Officer of Bosque Brewing , to explore what it takes to lead one of New Mexico’s most beloved craft breweries. As a COO, mother, and woman in a male-dominated industry , Jess shares her journey, the challenges of scaling a brewery, and how she balances leadership with family life. We dive into the evolving role of women in craft beer,...

On this episode of The New Mexico Momcast , we sit down with Lauren Hall to talk about the much-anticipated Glimmer & Glow: Moms Night Out —a special evening designed to help moms connect and unwind. But beyond the fun, we dive into a critical issue: the epidemic of loneliness that the U.S. Surgeon General has declared a national crisis. Motherhood can be isolating, and in a world where digita...

In this episode, we sit down with Hannah Maples and Jade Ryden , wives of New Mexico United players, for an exclusive look into the world of being a "WAG"—the wives and girlfriends of professional soccer players. They open up about the unique challenges of supporting their husbands’ careers, from constant moves and unpredictable schedules to the emotional highs and lows of the game. But...

Moving to a new state can be overwhelming, but for Olivia Mead, it’s been an adventure she fully embraces! In this episode, we sit down with Olivia, a mom, small business owner, and passionate community builder, to talk about her experience relocating to New Mexico and how she has found connection and joy in her new home. Olivia and her husband run Flicker Mill Candles , a local candle company, as...

In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with Shelley Repp , Director of NM   Dream Center , to discuss the critical issue of human trafficking —a reality that can be much closer to home than many realize. Shelley sheds light on the different types of trafficking, the warning signs to look for, and how parents can protect their children from potential dangers. She also shares the impactful work be...

What do public charter schools offer New Mexico families? In this episode, we get real with Angela Lopez, Field Director for Public Charter Schools of New Mexico , who spends her days connecting with parents, students, and school leaders to advocate for quality education. From busting myths to breaking down options, we dive into how charter schools are reshaping learning across the state. Whether...

In this special Valentine’s Day episode of Love That Lasts: Secrets to a Thriving Marriage , host Vanessa Bush sits down with her husband, counselor and pastor Nate Bush, for an honest and insightful conversation about what it takes to build a strong, lasting marriage. Together, they dive into key factors that create a healthy relationship, the power of communication and conflict resolution, and t...

This podcast episode is sponsored by Lovelace Health Systems. We at ABQ Mom choose to work with businesses and organizations that will benefit our listeners and readers. When you think of February, you might picture candy hearts, decadent chocolates, and bouquets of roses. But did you know this month is also American Heart Month? In this special heart health episode of New Mexico Momcast—sponsored...

In this special episode, Becca sits down with Anastasia Fajardo—a pregnant mom and a seasoned labor and delivery nurse—to explore the wild, wonderful, and sometimes downright weird world of pregnancy and childbirth. No topic is off-limits as we laugh, learn, and share real-talk insights about navigating pregnancy while juggling the unique perspective of being a healthcare professional. From bizarr...

We're kicking off the first episode of the year with you. Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s all too familiar this time of year—New Year’s resolutions. But here’s the twist: we’re asking, ‘New Year, Why a New Me?’   For so many of us, January brings a flood of pressure to transform—be thinner, be more organized, and be everything to everyone. But today, we’re flipping the script. What if...

In this episode, we had the pleasure of chatting with Rachael Reardon, the coordinator of the ABQ Mom Club, a vibrant community for mothers in Albuquerque. Rachel, a mom to three children under the age of three, brings a wealth of personal experience and a refreshing perspective on the challenges and joys of parenting small children. Rachael shared her unique insights into the world of motherhood,...

Looking to make the holidays less about stress and more about joy? The New Mexico Momcast is here to help. In this episode, we share tips for cutting down on holiday overwhelm and creating meaningful, memorable celebrations with your family. From planning manageable holiday activities to setting boundaries around gatherings, we cover practical ideas to help you truly enjoy the season. Join us for...

November is Premature Birth Awareness Month, a time to shine a spotlight on the families who have experienced the challenges and triumphs that come with premature birth. In our latest episode of New Mexico Momcast, we sit down with Elizabeth Janiors, a resilient mother who shares her personal story of navigating the emotional, medical, and day-to-day realities of having a premature baby. In this h...

In this episode of the New Mexico Momcast, Becca and Vanessa discuss the hidden challenges of overparenting, exploring how hovering and micro-managing can stifle a child’s natural resilience and independence. We’ll unpack the downsides of helicopter parenting, discuss the impact of excessive screen time, and examine the current mental health crisis affecting kids and teens. Our conversation will o...

In this episode of New Mexico Momcast , we explore the growing disconnect between kids and the natural world with Sarah Candelaria, founder and executive director of Nature Niños. Sarah sheds light on the alarming trend of children spending less time outdoors and the profound effects this is having on their well-being. She shares the many benefits of reconnecting with nature, from boosting emotion...

Why do we like to villanize people who think and believe differently than us? This is something you might be wondering as we creep toward November 5th. In this thought-provoking episode of New Mexico Momcast , hosts Vanessa and Becca dive into intellectual hospitality— the art of showing compassion, understanding, and curiosity towards those with differing beliefs. In a world increasingly divided,...

This podcast episode is sponsored by Lovelace Health Systems. We at ABQ Mom choose to work with businesses and organizations that will benefit our listeners and readers. In this special Breast Cancer Awareness Month episode of New Mexico Momcast , we sit down with Rosemary Rodriguez, PA-C from Lovelace Women’s Hospital, to discuss the critical topic of breast health. Rosemary shares expert advice...

This podcast episode is sponsored by the Family Teacher Organization at Desert Willow Family School. We at ABQ Mom choose to work with businesses and organizations that will benefit our readers. In this episode, we chat with Adrianne Elkins, principal of Coyote Willow Family School. She shares the distinctive attributes of both Desert Willow and Coyote Willow Family Schools located on the east and...

New Mexico Momcast is dedicated to sharing stories, insights, and advice to support and empower mothers everywhere. In this episode, we address the often-overlooked topic of perinatal depression and maternal mental health. Our special guest, Susan Aguayo, founder of Kassy's Kause , a nonprofit bringing awareness to perinatal depression, will discuss the signs, challenges, and available suppor...

Join us as we chat with Molly Lukes, a passionate occupational therapist and pelvic health specialist at Medusa Pelvic Health and Wellbeing. Molly shares her personal journey of discovering pelvic therapy during her own postpartum recovery and how it inspired her to support women in achieving optimal pelvic health and wellbeing. In this episode, we'll dive into topics such as postpartum rehab...

Episode #19 Many of us are in the throws of raising our children and the changes happening to our bodies can go unnoticed or explained away.  "I'm just exhausted because it's a busy season, " or perhaps "I'm just moody because of my kids"  When in fact perimenopause and the multitude of hormonal changes can sneak up on us,    On today's episode, we interview...

Episode #18 ABQ Mom adopts one non-profit every year. This year we have chosen to work with the  Getting Ahead , a program operated by Shine Partnership.  It's a 16-session workshop for families of students in APS Title-1 Schools who wish to improve their economic stability.    Today, Katie Loeppke, Community Programs Director, for Shine Partnership joins us on the podcast to discuss the prog...

#17  In celebration of Mental Health March, we're having a crucial conversation about our children's well-being. Join us as we sit down with Marlina McCall, a seasoned kids therapist and school counselor, to explore effective ways to support our children's mental health. From recognizing early signs of distress to nurturing resilience, Marlina shares invaluable insights and practica...