M.O.M. Files - Moments of Motherhood | Podcast for moms

Have questions about labor, postpartum, newborn life, or motherhood in general? In our season 3 finale, we’re sitting down and answering all your listener questions! We chat about: Tips for managing newborn care The emotional side of postpartum and what it felt like trying to feel like ourselves again after birth Favorite shows, books, and activities for young children Essential baby gear that act...

“I’m scared to have a baby.” If you’ve ever thought that quietly to yourself, you are far from alone. We’re chatting all about the very real fears and anxieties that can come with preparing for a newborn and stepping into parenthood. We chat about: Our personal experiences with newborn fears, postpartum emotions, and the overwhelming transition into parenthood Worries around breastfeeding, soothin...

Are you preparing your toddler for a new baby and wondering how everyone is going to adjust? We’re discussing the emotional transition of growing your family and preparing siblings for a new baby. We chat about: Hav’s personal experience preparing for baby #2 The emotions, guilt, excitement, and fears that can come with the transition from one child to two Simple, realistic ways to help older sibl...

Are you in that quiet in-between — waiting for baby to arrive while trying to soak in these final moments exactly as they are? In today’s episode, we’re exploring the emotional and mental landscape of the last weeks of pregnancy. We talk about: The push and pull of preparing for a new baby while cherishing the final moments with your current child (or your current season of life) Balancing family...

Feeling isolated after having a baby? In this episode, we talk honestly about the lonely side of postpartum — the identity shifts, mom guilt, emotional overwhelm, and feeling disconnected even when you’re constantly needed. We discuss… Why postpartum can feel so isolating Staying connected to friends, your partner, and yourself as best you can Finding joy in small moments during survival mode Simp...

Feeling exhausted postpartum but still want to connect with your older kids without burning yourself out even more? In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Kim Van Dusen to talk about realistic ways to connect through play during postpartum and overwhelming seasons of motherhood — without adding more pressure. We chat about… Easy low-energy play ideas for tired moms Couch play and simple connection m...

Are you preparing for postpartum or just preparing for the baby? In this episode, Aleea and Hav talk about the small things that quietly make postpartum harder—or easier. The real-life systems that matter once the visitors leave, and survival mode kicks in. From nighttime setups and “drop zones” to freezer meals, mental load, and lowering expectations, they share the things they didn’t realize wou...

How are you supposed to heal, function, and care for a newborn at the same time? This week, Aleea and Hav get honest about the part no one really prepares you for: postpartum. From the physical recovery and mental load to the guilt, anxiety, and pressure that hit in those early weeks, they share what caught them off guard—and what actually helped. They also talk through the practical things they w...

Feeling the nesting urge kick in? In this episode, Hav and Aleea dive into what nesting actually looks like during pregnancy—beyond the perfectly styled nursery. They share practical tips and real-life experiences to help you prepare for life with a newborn, from cleaning and organizing to freezer meals and partner support—focusing on what truly makes postpartum easier. Listen in if you’re ready t...

What do you actually need in your hospital bag? We’re back with Season 3! In today’s episode, Aleea and Hav get real about preparing for labor—both physically and mentally. They share what they packed, what they actually used, and what they’d skip next time. From comfort items and snacks to prioritizing what truly matters, this conversation leans into practicality over perfection. They also touch...

Are you nervous about speaking up for yourself with doctors during pregnancy or birth? In the Season 2 finale, Hav and Aleea talk about why self-advocacy matters during pregnancy, labor, and delivery. They share practical ways to communicate with healthcare providers, prepare for labor conversations, and create birth wishes that reflect what matters most to you—while still leaving room for flexibi...

Are you pregnant and suddenly realizing there are a lot of body changes no one warned you about? In this episode, Aleea and Hav get real about the TMI side of pregnancy — from discharge and body image shifts to pelvic pain, swelling, and other unexpected symptoms. They share personal stories, practical tips, and reassurance for navigating these changes with a little more confidence (and a lot less...

Do you feel guilty for not enjoying pregnancy? Today, Hav and Aleea explore why so many women feel pressure to love every moment of pregnancy—and the guilt that can show up when you don’t. They discuss navigating physical challenges, honoring your limits, and leaning on support systems during a season that can feel both beautiful and incredibly hard. Most importantly, they remind you that having c...

Are you feeling anxious about finding out your baby’s gender? Or maybe you’re surprised by your reaction after finding out. In this chat, Aleea and Hav explore the often unspoken reality of gender disappointment. They unpack the mix of expectations, fear, grief, and guilt that can surface — and why those emotions don’t make you ungrateful or a bad mom. Together, they talk about how to process thos...

Are you wondering how to set boundaries before the baby arrives—without blowing up your relationships? In this episode, Aleea and Hav dive into navigating family expectations during pregnancy and postpartum. They unpack why saying no to visitors can feel so loaded, how to protect your space during one of the most vulnerable seasons of life, and the emotional (and cultural) layers that make boundar...

Are you finding that you don’t enjoy pregnancy the way you thought you would? In this episode, Aleea and Hav are joined by special guest Hannah for an honest conversation about the often-unspoken challenges of pregnancy—especially for working moms. Hannah shares her lived experience navigating two very different pregnancies. Together, they talk about isolation, fear, and the quiet pressure to meet...

Does it feel like everyone has an opinion when it comes to your parenting? In this conversation, Aleea and Hav explore the challenges of unsolicited advice that new mothers often face. They discuss personal experiences with advice from family, friends, and strangers, and how it can lead to feelings of self-doubt and confusion. They share strategies for handling unsolicited advice and the significa...

Feeling nervous about adding another child to your family? In this episode, Hav and Aleea talk through the real emotional and practical adjustments that come with welcoming a new baby. They dive into sibling dynamics, firstborn regression, and how communication, preparation, and empathy can ease the transition for everyone. Listen in for real-life reflections and thoughtful encouragement on growin...

We’re back for Season 2, and we’re diving into all things pregnancy! If finding out you’re pregnant left you feeling emotionally overwhelmed (or feeling everything at once), this episode is for you. Aleea and Hav open up about their own experiences and the emotional roller coaster that can come with expecting. They talk through the mix of fear, excitement, and uncertainty, the shift into new roles...

As the new year approaches, it’s easy to feel the weight of guilt, pressure, and unmet expectations. In the final episode of this season, Hav and Aleea unpack the emotions that surface at year’s end and why New Year’s resolutions can feel so heavy—especially for moms. They share personal reflections and practical mindset shifts for navigating this season with more self-compassion, honoring what wa...

Feeling stressed this holiday season, mama? This week, Aleea and Hav dive into holiday stress—covering grief, family dynamics, and the power of self-care. They share personal stories and practical tips for keeping joy alive, setting boundaries, and honoring loved ones. From navigating tough conversations to prioritizing your mental health, this episode is all about surviving—and even enjoying—the...

Feeling the pressure to keep up with social media aesthetics while trying to stay true to your own style? In this episode, Hav and Aleea dive into the real-life struggles moms face around trends, parenting aesthetics, and home decor. They talk about the gap between what you want and what the internet says you should want, and how overwhelming it can feel to manage a home that’s both functional and...

Struggling with screen time guilt? 😅 In this episode, Aleea and Hav dive into the tricky world of kids and screens. They share real-life experiences, tips for finding balance, and how to set boundaries without feeling like a “bad parent.” Screens aren’t the enemy—they can be tools for learning, fun, and even relaxation. The key? Being gentle with yourself and remembering that every family has its...

Ever catch yourself stuck in the comparison trap of motherhood? In this episode, Hav and Aleea dive into how social media can quietly fuel comparison—whether it’s parenting styles, milestones, or the picture-perfect lives we see online. They open up about the emotional toll of constantly measuring yourself against other moms and the freedom that comes from embracing your own unique journey. You’ll...

Do the holidays already feel like a to-do list? In this week’s episode, Hav and Aleea unpack the emotional and mental load of being the one who “makes the magic.” Because sometimes the pressure to create the perfect holiday turns into resentment, guilt, and burnout. They talk about the Pinterest-perfect expectations, the subtle shame around gifts, and how social media can make even meaningful trad...