Motherhood & The Brain
Esther Mbabazi
Are you tired of feeling like you’re always at your wit's end, especially when it comes to yelling at your kids?
You’re not alone.
Motherhood can be overwhelming, especially when your preteen seems to push every button and you just can’t seem to get through to them without losing your temper.
This podcast is for moms who are juggling work, family, and everything in between, and are ready to stop yelling and start connecting with their kids in a more peaceful way.
We’ll take you on a journey through the ups and downs of raising a preteen, offering brain-based strategies and practical tips on how to handle everything from discipline to managing your own emotions.
We’ll dive into topics like how to better understand your child’s behavior, how to stop yelling and start listening, and how to build a stronger, more trusting relationship with your preteen.
You’ll learn about positive parenting, emotional control, and simple, science-backed methods for managing mom anger and helping your preteen thrive.
If you’re looking for real, actionable advice on how to deal with the challenges of raising a preteen, this is the place for you.
Let’s make this motherhood journey a little smoother, together.
All episodes
Best episodes
Top 10 Motherhood & The Brain Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Motherhood & The Brain episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Motherhood & The Brain for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Motherhood & The Brain episode by adding your comments to the episode page.
Anxious About Going Back To Work After Maternity Leave?
Motherhood & The Brain
04/15/24 • 22 min
Today, Esther dives into the deep waters of motherhood and career in a way that really hits home. She talks about that tug-of-war many moms feel between returning to work and staying with their baby. Esther brings up societal pressures and the internal battles we face when balancing work and maternal instincts.
Then, she introduces this fascinating concept of the "protective brain." You know, how a mom's brain is wired to shield her child, and how going back to work can feel like a threat to that instinct. It's eye-opening stuff, really delving into the emotional side of things.
Esther doesn't stop there; she gets into the nitty-gritty of practical challenges like pumping and storing breast milk. But what's refreshing is how she acknowledges these concerns with compassion and offers strategies to tackle them head-on.
And let me tell you, her tips for negotiating with your own brain? Genius. She encourages moms to embrace their autonomy in choosing to return to work and offers empowering ways to navigate that transition.
Throughout the episode, Esther emphasizes the importance of reframing our perspective, tapping into our wisdom, and giving ourselves permission to feel those tough emotions like guilt. It's all about finding balance, you know?
By the end, you'll walk away feeling empowered, armed with practical solutions, and ready to face the challenges of motherhood and work with grace and self-compassion. So, grab your headphones and join us on this journey of self-discovery and empowerment!
https://instagram.com/the.help.moms.yell.less.coach
A UNIQUE APPROACH TO SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCE YELLING.
Are you struggling with yelling at your kids? Do you keep falling back into yelling?
I use a unique approach the addresses the underlying cause of yelling so that you break the yelling habit for good. https://masteryourownwellbeing.com/tfd
How To Solve Problems
Motherhood & The Brain
02/05/24 • 25 min
On today’s episode of the Motherhood and The Brain podcast, Esther Mbabazi introduces a tool called the CTFAR model.
This model comprises five letters: C for Circumstance, T for Thought, F for Feeling, A for Action, and R for Result. The tool serves as a framework to understand how one's thinking influences outcomes and the mind's role in shaping experiences.
Episode Highlights:
03:12: Esther introduces an example scenario involving a 12-year-old refusing to go to school. The mother's thought is that she is failing her daughter, leading to feelings of guilt.
04:10: Esther details the mother's actions in response to her guilt. These actions include taking away electronics, pressuring the child, emotional struggles, and coping mechanisms like overthinking and consuming wine.
05:46: The analysis delves into how internal mental activities, such as internal complaints, play a role in shaping the broader impact on the individual's life and strengthen their beliefs of falling short as a parent.
07:11: Esther clarifies the purpose of the CTFAR model, emphasizing that it is a tool to understand thinking patterns and not to directly change feelings. She discourages attempts to alter feelings using the tool.
08:40: The emphasis is placed on the significance of differentiating between thoughts and facts, with an encouragement for individuals to scrutinize what they believe. The continuous nature of thoughts is underscored, emphasizing the importance of cultivating self-awareness.
10:01: Esther discusses the persistence of certain thoughts in the mind and outlines the approach to handle such fixations. She advises getting a piece of paper and writing down the circumstance, thoughts, and feelings associated with the fixation.
11:15: Esther advises asking the brain, "What if everything is OK as it is?" and notes that the brain will come up with answers. She instructs writing down the positive responses.
13:08: Esther advises asking why a specific sentence, such as "I am failing my daughter," is fixated upon and encourages exploration of beliefs about failing as a mother.
15:53: The point is made that parenting is influenced by social and cultural norms, yet there are no definitive textbooks or classes to define successful parenting. The focus is on the collective experience of navigating motherhood and the acknowledgment of the inevitability of making mistakes along the way.
17:02: Esther discusses the negative impact of believing you are a failing mother. Feeling guilty leads the brain to find evidence supporting this belief, adding to the stress of situations like a child refusing to go to school.
18:00: The importance is stressed on tending to one's thought process when confronted with uncontrollable circumstances. The suggested tool aids in comprehending and refining thinking before engaging with external situations.
20:05: Esther notes the lack of control over what is happening but emphasizes control over one's response. The current situation of a child refusing to go to school is not a reflection of the mother as a person.
22:43: Esther encourages daily reflection by writing down thoughts on a piece of paper or in a box. She instructs to pick one sentence and answer it, emphasizing that a thought does not have to be a question.
22:43: Daily reflection is promoted through the practice of jotting down thoughts on paper or in a designated box.
T
https://instagram.com/the.help.moms.yell.less.coach
A UNIQUE APPROACH TO SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCE YELLING.
Are you struggling with yelling at your kids? Do you keep falling back into yelling?
I use a unique approach the addresses the underlying cause of yelling so that you break the yelling habit for good. https://masteryourownwellbeing.com/tfd
Olympic Wisdom for Moms Facing Daily Emotional Hurdles
Motherhood & The Brain
08/26/24 • 13 min
Can you imagine training for years, only to be disqualified at the moment of truth? This gut-wrenching scenario faced by Olympic athletes mirrors the emotional challenges we tackle daily as moms of preteen girls.
Drawing inspiration from the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, I, Esther Mbabazi, explore how the heartbreak and resilience of these athletes offer profound lessons in courage and perseverance—lessons that are invaluable in our pursuit to build stronger connections with our children.
Join me in this heartfelt episode as we compare the athletes’ trials to our own commitments, such as deciding to stop yelling at our preteens to foster better relationships.
Despite our best efforts, just like the athletes, we can't always guarantee success—but the act of showing up and trying makes all the difference.
By sharing real stories and brain-based methods, I hope to inspire you to continue striving for deeper connections, even when the outcome is uncertain.
Let's navigate the uncharted territory of motherhood together, learning and growing from each stumble and triumph.
https://instagram.com/the.help.moms.yell.less.coach
A UNIQUE APPROACH TO SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCE YELLING.
Are you struggling with yelling at your kids? Do you keep falling back into yelling?
I use a unique approach the addresses the underlying cause of yelling so that you break the yelling habit for good. https://masteryourownwellbeing.com/tfd
Why Is My Preteen Moody Lately?
Motherhood & The Brain
12/09/24 • 19 min
Have you ever felt like your preteen's mood swings are somehow your fault? Like every outburst or meltdown is this giant spotlight on your motherhood journey? If you’re nodding right now, you’re not alone.
So many moms carry around this invisible weight of guilt and self-doubt, thinking, If my kid is struggling, I must be messing up somewhere. Sound familiar?
I am here to flip that script and remind you of something big: your worth as a mom isn’t tied to your child’s emotions. Think about that for a second. Your preteen’s ups and downs? They’re not a report card on your motherhood—they’re just part of growing up.
In this episode, I take you on a journey to uncover where those heavy feelings come from. Spoiler alert: it’s not your fault. A lot of it comes from generations of being told that a mom’s job is to keep everything perfect all the time. But guess what? That’s not the real story.
You will see those tough moments for what they are—stepping stones, not stumbling blocks.
I talk about why self-compassion is a game-changer and how a little kindness toward yourself can go a long way. Because let’s be honest, how can you pour into your preteen if your own cup is empty?
I share real, practical ways to break free from all the pressure and create a space where both you and your child can grow.
So, take a deep breath. You’re not failing—you’re learning, and so is your preteen. Tune in and find that balance between supporting your child and showing yourself some love along the way.
https://instagram.com/the.help.moms.yell.less.coach
A UNIQUE APPROACH TO SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCE YELLING.
Are you struggling with yelling at your kids? Do you keep falling back into yelling?
I use a unique approach the addresses the underlying cause of yelling so that you break the yelling habit for good. https://masteryourownwellbeing.com/tfd
How To Stop My Mom From Commenting On How I raise My Preteen?
Motherhood & The Brain
10/28/24 • 19 min
Criticism from family can hurt, especially when it’s about how you parent. But what if you could turn those hurtful comments into a chance to grow and be kinder to yourself?
In this episode, I talk about the emotional struggles moms face when family members are critical. I show you how to separate the truth from what you think is true and reflect on how these comments might change how you see failure and unhealthy habits.
Using simple techniques, I help you think about what’s really going on, moving past the usual "I don’t know," so you can feel less stressed and adopt healthier ways to parent.
Picture this your child drops their ice cream, and you rush to comfort them. Now, imagine being just as kind to yourself when someone criticizes you.
In this episode, you’ll learn about the "thought ladder," a tool that helps you slowly shift your thinking to feel better about yourself, especially during the tough times of being a mom.
I explain how your brain is just trying to protect you, and I help you find a new way to think about it. Plus, I encourages you to have compassion, not just for yourself but also for your family members, who might not even realize they’re part of the problem.
Understanding these things can help you face emotional challenges with more grace and strength.
https://instagram.com/the.help.moms.yell.less.coach
A UNIQUE APPROACH TO SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCE YELLING.
Are you struggling with yelling at your kids? Do you keep falling back into yelling?
I use a unique approach the addresses the underlying cause of yelling so that you break the yelling habit for good. https://masteryourownwellbeing.com/tfd
When You & Your Spouse Parent Differently
Motherhood & The Brain
10/21/24 • 21 min
Have you ever felt frustrated by how your partner parents? I have.
Join me, as I dive into the emotional rollercoaster that happens when parents disagree, especially when it comes to decisions about preteens.
I’ll share my own stories and honest thoughts, like when I argued with my partner about letting our kids have sugary drinks.
This episode will help you understand and appreciate each other’s unique parenting styles while also shining a light on the insecurities that might be hiding behind our frustrations.
We’ll explore feelings of self-doubt and how to coach ourselves for personal growth and clarity. By choosing curiosity over judgment, we can change our views and turn anger into relief.
Remember, no one has all the answers in parenting! I’ll share tips on how to celebrate your partner's different approach to parenting.
I’m thankful for your support, and I’d love for you to share your thoughts! Your feedback will help us make this journey even better for other parents looking for peace and teamwork.
https://instagram.com/the.help.moms.yell.less.coach
A UNIQUE APPROACH TO SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCE YELLING.
Are you struggling with yelling at your kids? Do you keep falling back into yelling?
I use a unique approach the addresses the underlying cause of yelling so that you break the yelling habit for good. https://masteryourownwellbeing.com/tfd
Husband Thinks I am A Bad Mother!
Motherhood & The Brain
11/18/24 • 28 min
Ever felt like one innocuous comment could unravel your entire sense of self-worth as a mother? Join me, in a heartfelt journey through the emotional maze faced by moms of preteen girls.
We discuss the profound impact of societal expectations and how a single remark can trigger an avalanche of self-doubt and insecurity. By understanding that it's our thoughts, not the events themselves, that fuel emotional turmoil, we can start to dismantle the cycle of self-criticism.
This exploration highlights the evolutionary sensitivity to criticism that many of us grapple with, and how it can distort our perception of our parenting abilities.
We also uncover the transformative power of reframing our beliefs about motherhood. Instead of succumbing to the brain's tendency to seek evidence for negative self-judgments, learn to approach these beliefs with curiosity.
By questioning their origins and separating them from our identity, we open the door to how to stop feeling like a bad mom and start defining motherhood on our own, compassionate terms. With an emphasis on understanding and overcoming parenting guilt, this conversation encourages a mindset shift that not only helps manage mom guilt and mistakes but fosters a nurturing and forgiving self-view.
As we wrap up, I express deep gratitude for your support and share how your feedback creates a vibrant community that enriches our shared journey in motherhood.
Together, let’s explore ways to combat feeling judged as a mom and replace negative self-talk with trust and confidence in our unique paths as parents.
https://instagram.com/the.help.moms.yell.less.coach
A UNIQUE APPROACH TO SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCE YELLING.
Are you struggling with yelling at your kids? Do you keep falling back into yelling?
I use a unique approach the addresses the underlying cause of yelling so that you break the yelling habit for good. https://masteryourownwellbeing.com/tfd
Why Aren’t My Parents More Involved With My Kids?
Motherhood & The Brain
12/16/24 • 13 min
Have you ever found yourself thinking, “I just don’t get it—why aren’t my parents more involved with my kids? It’s so disappointing.”
If you’ve ever felt that way, you’re not alone.
But what if there’s a way to take that disappointment and turn it into something more peaceful?
What if, instead of focusing on what’s missing, you could start seeing the little ways your parents are present—and find real connection there?
In this episode of Motherhood from the Brain, we’re diving into the emotional challenges of unmet expectations and how our minds naturally fixate on what’s lacking.
I’ll share how shifting your focus can help you manage those feelings and create a stronger bond with the family you have right in front of you.
It’s not about lowering your standards or pretending things are perfect. It’s about learning to appreciate what’s real—no matter how small it feels—and finding peace in that.
So, grab a cup of coffee, and let’s have an honest conversation about family, expectations, and how to move forward with more grace for yourself and others. You’ve got this, mama.
https://instagram.com/the.help.moms.yell.less.coach
A UNIQUE APPROACH TO SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCE YELLING.
Are you struggling with yelling at your kids? Do you keep falling back into yelling?
I use a unique approach the addresses the underlying cause of yelling so that you break the yelling habit for good. https://masteryourownwellbeing.com/tfd
Future You
Motherhood & The Brain
01/06/25 • 24 min
As a mom, you want to be the calm, thoughtful guide your child needs—but when tensions rise, it’s easy to fall into reactive patterns. You’re not alone in feeling this way, and the good news is that change is possible.
In this episode, we’ll help you move from overwhelm to confidence by offering practical tools and reflections that empower you to strengthen your emotional resilience and your connection with your kids.
Here’s what we’ll explore together:
- Reflecting on the year and aligning with your parenting goals.
- Understanding how the protective brain and the thinking brain clash in heated moments.
- Creating a clear vision of your future self as a calm, steady mom.
- Building the skill of sitting with discomfort without letting it control you.
- Simple, actionable steps to grow your emotional resilience.
- Using thought downloads to separate facts from opinions.
- Recognizing the physical sensations tied to emotions and responding thoughtfully.
- The power of consistent practice in transforming how you react.
- Cultivating compassion—for yourself and your child—in the journey ahead.
Parenting isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. This episode is here to help you take the next step toward being the mom your preteen feels safe turning to, no matter what.
https://instagram.com/the.help.moms.yell.less.coach
A UNIQUE APPROACH TO SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCE YELLING.
Are you struggling with yelling at your kids? Do you keep falling back into yelling?
I use a unique approach the addresses the underlying cause of yelling so that you break the yelling habit for good. https://masteryourownwellbeing.com/tfd
Do You Feel Guilty When You Are Angry At Your Preteen?
Motherhood & The Brain
12/30/24 • 11 min
Have you ever had one of those moments—you know, the ones where anger flares up, and before you know it, guilt comes crashing in right behind it? Yeah, me too. It’s such a hard spot to be in, and if you’ve felt it, I want you to know you’re not alone.
That’s exactly what we’re diving into in this episode. I’m peeling back the layers of those raw emotions we all feel but don’t often talk about. Let’s get real: none of us signed up to be “perfectly patient, never-lose-it moms,” yet the world seems to expect it anyway.
I’m sharing some personal stories (because, trust me, I’ve been there) and insights from experts that have helped me understand what’s really going on beneath the surface when we get angry. It’s not just about the moment—it’s about those sneaky thoughts and pressures we carry without even realizing it.
Think of your emotions like a pot simmering on the stove. Sometimes, the heat just creeps up on us, fueled by the belief that we’re supposed to “have it all together” all the time. But here’s a thought: what if anger wasn’t a sign that we’re failing, but instead, a little signal that something needs our attention?
We’re talking about how to notice the simmer before it boils over, how to respond in a way that feels true to you, and how to use those moments of frustration as a way to connect with your preteen instead of pulling further apart.
You’re not a bad mom because you get angry. You’re a human mom. And in this episode, we’ll explore how to navigate those tough moments with self-awareness and grace—because you deserve to feel good about the mom you are, even on the hard days. Let’s walk this path together.
https://instagram.com/the.help.moms.yell.less.coach
A UNIQUE APPROACH TO SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCE YELLING.
Are you struggling with yelling at your kids? Do you keep falling back into yelling?
I use a unique approach the addresses the underlying cause of yelling so that you break the yelling habit for good. https://masteryourownwellbeing.com/tfd
Show more best episodes
Show more best episodes
FAQ
How many episodes does Motherhood & The Brain have?
Motherhood & The Brain currently has 43 episodes available.
What topics does Motherhood & The Brain cover?
The podcast is about Health & Fitness, Mental Health, Podcasts and Education.
What is the most popular episode on Motherhood & The Brain?
The episode title 'Understanding Your Preteen's Perspective' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on Motherhood & The Brain?
The average episode length on Motherhood & The Brain is 22 minutes.
How often are episodes of Motherhood & The Brain released?
Episodes of Motherhood & The Brain are typically released every 7 days.
When was the first episode of Motherhood & The Brain?
The first episode of Motherhood & The Brain was released on Jan 22, 2024.
Show more FAQ
Show more FAQ