The Moms Are Alright

Caroline Dickens & Hila Sachs

Whether you're trying to conceive or are a few years into toddlerhood, we know that the transition to motherhood can leave you feeling a little (or a lot!) stuck, overwhelmed, and alone.
Join perinatal psychologists Dr. Caroline Dickens (toddler mom) and Dr. Hila Sachs (first-time mom-to-be) as they share their professional expertise and personal experiences alongside guest experts to cover all the motherhood challenges you're struggling with the most.
You'll leave each 45-minute episode with new perspectives and tools that will help you find more peace, joy, fulfillment, and hopefully a little humor, through even the hardest parts of the transition to motherhood.

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Top 10 The Moms Are Alright Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best The Moms Are Alright episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to The Moms Are Alright 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 The Moms Are Alright episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

Sleep & Sanity with Sammy Merritt

The Moms Are Alright

10/16/24 • 43 min

Summary

In this episode of The Moms Are Alright, Dr. Hila and Dr. Caroline welcome Sammy Merritt, a registered psychologist specializing in pediatric sleep. They discuss the complexities of baby sleep, the relationship between sleep and anxiety for new moms, and the nuances of sleep training. Sammy emphasizes the importance of understanding individual needs and the evidence-based approaches to support healthy sleep habits in children, as well as the importance of considering maternal mental health in making sleep decisions. The conversation also touches on the long-term effects of sleep training and offers practical tips for new mothers navigating sleep challenges with their babies.

Takeaways

Baby sleep is often a source of anxiety for new moms.
Sleep training is different than 'cry it out'.
Understanding your baby's unique needs is crucial for sleep success.
Research shows no long-term mental health differences from sleep training.
Division of Responsibility: New moms should focus on offering sleep, while letting babies to decide if/how much to sleep.

What’s covered in this episode

00:40 - Meet Sammy
04:18 - The intersection of baby sleep and maternal mental health
08:52 - The role of control and anxiety
13:00 - Expectations vs. reality of baby sleep
17:41 - Debunking myths: sleep training and co-sleeping
26:20 - What’s the deal with wake windows?
34:50 - Sammy’s top tips for new moms struggling with sleep

Where to Find Sammy

Disclaimer: While Sammy Merritt is a counselling psychologist in Alberta, any information she shares here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for psychological treatment, advice, or therapy from a mental health professional, nor is it medical advice. There are no guaranteed outcomes from consuming this content, including no guaranteed results for sleep and wellness. If you need mental health support, please seek mental health care from a licensed professional in your jurisdiction.

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If you found this episode helpful, please rate our podcast and leave a review. Your feedback means the world to us!
Want to get connected?
Follow us on Instagram, @themomsarealrightpodcast. If you found this episode helpful, please leave a review and DM us to let us know! We can't wait to hear you from you!
Find more information about the podcast on our website.
For more practical, realistic, and no-BS tips & encouragement, follow @dr.hilasachs and @drcarolinedickens on Instagram.
If you're interested in working with us, we'd love to connect! If you're located in New York or Florida, learn more about Hila's practice here. If you're based in California, check out Caroline's website here.
Disclaimer: Information shared in this podcast is for educational & entertainment purposes only. It is not therapy nor a replacement form therapy, nor is it medical advice. If you need support, please seek mental health care from a licensed professional in your jurisdiction.

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The Debrief: Sleep & Sanity

The Moms Are Alright

10/16/24 • 22 min

Summary

In this conversation, Dr. Caroline and Dr. Hila discuss the insights shared by their guest, Sammy Merritt, focusing on sleep training and the emotional challenges faced by new moms. They emphasize the importance of trusting one's instincts and the impact of external opinions on parenting decisions. This episode also highlights the significance of maternal mental health and the need for intuitive decision-making in parenting.

Takeaways

Trusting your instincts is crucial in parenting decisions.
Sleep training is a controversial topic that can lead to guilt.
External opinions can complicate parenting choices.
Building intuitive decision-making skills is essential.
Embracing uncertainty is part of the parenting journey.
Recognizing different parenting preferences can reduce anxiety.

What’s covered in this episode

00:40 - Caroline and Hila share takeaways from their conversation with Sammy
03:25 - Exploring the intersection of baby sleep and maternal mental health
05:31 - Why is sleep training so controversial?
07:41 - The role of external judgment on sleep decisions
09:54 - Tolerating uncertainty and why it matters when it comes to baby sleep
12:25 - The importance of protecting maternal mental health when it comes to sleep decisions
14:15 - Making sleep decisions that fit with your own values
16:57 - Key takeaways and what’s to come on The Moms Are Alright

Episode Links
Listen to Sammy’s interview

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The Debrief: Push It Real Good

The Moms Are Alright

12/11/24 • 17 min

Caroline and Hila discuss the often overlooked topic of pelvic floor health in relation to mental health and postpartum experiences. They emphasize the importance of understanding pelvic floor issues, the stigma surrounding them, and the need for community support. Personal anecdotes (disclosure alert!) highlight the challenges women face, and the conversation encourages open dialogue and seeking help for pelvic health concerns.

Takeaways

There is a bidirectional relationship between mental health and pelvic floor function.
Sharing personal stories can alleviate feelings of shame.
Women deserve to receive care that addresses their needs.
Open conversations about pelvic health can lead to better outcomes.

What’s covered in this episode

00:40- The Importance of Discussing Pelvic Health
03:25- Mental Health and Pelvic Floor Connection
06:15- Breaking the Stigma Around Pelvic Issues
08:53- Empowerment Through Knowledge and Support
13:01- Celebrating Motherhood and Self-Care

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The Debrief: Building Unshakeable Self-Trust

The Moms Are Alright

11/13/24 • 17 min

Summary

In this conversation, Hila and Caroline explore the topic of perfectionism and the way that external pressure can contribute to it for modern mothers. They discuss the importance of identifying one’s own values, grounding in the present moment, and the need for self-compassion. The conversation emphasizes the significance of trusting one's intuition and finding balance amidst societal expectations.

Takeaways

Perfectionism can manifest in various ways, especially in motherhood.
Social media amplifies the pressure to be perfect.
It's essential to connect with one's values and priorities.
Grounding techniques can help navigate overwhelming and anxious thoughts.
Self-trust is vital for a fulfilling experience of motherhood.
Self-compassion can help moms manage self-criticism.

What’s covered in this episode:

00:00 - Caroline and Hila’s personal experiences of perfectionism
03:04 - Navigating perfectionism in motherhood
05:34 - The role control plays in perfectionism
07:31 - Finding connection over perfection
08:34 - How to get from “what if” to “what is”
11:10 - The role of playfulness in coping with perfectionism
13:50 - Understanding adaptive vs. maladaptive perfectionism
16:05 - Embracing individual values in motherhood

Episode Links
Listen to Dr. Tuesday’s full interview

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Lets Talk About Sex, Baby! with Dr. Kayla Jimenez

The Moms Are Alright

10/23/24 • 38 min

Summary
In this episode, Caroline and Hila welcome Dr. Kayla Jimenez and dive into the complexities of physical intimacy after having a baby. They explore the emotional challenges postpartum mothers face, the importance of effective communication between partners, and the need to redefine intimacy in the context of new parenthood. The discussion emphasizes the significance of emotional connection, collaborative approaches to intimacy, and practical tips for couples to navigate this transitional period.

Takeaways

It is normal for postpartum couples to experience a decline in intimacy.
Effective communication is key to navigating intimacy issues.
Curiosity can help couples discuss vulnerable topics, such as physical intimacy.
Redefining sexuality is essential after having a baby.
It's important to acknowledge the changes each partner experiences after becoming parents.
Collaboration in intimacy can lead to creative solutions.
Proactive conversations about intimacy can be beneficial during pregnancy.

What’s covered in this episode
00:40 - Meet Kayla
02:54 - Understanding changes in intimacy after baby
05:15 - Navigating desire and attraction in new parenthood
07:49 - Communication strategies for couples
09:27 - Exploring emotional and physical Intimacy
12:19 - Creative approaches to reconnect
14:44 - Redefining intimacy and connection
17:09 - The importance of proactive conversations
19:57 - Preparing for pregnancy
22:42 - Conclusion and resources

Where to Find Kayla
Website

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Setting Boundaries with Lauren Auwood, LMFT

The Moms Are Alright

11/20/24 • 45 min

Summary:
In this conversation, Dr. Caroline Dickens and Dr. Hila Sachs speak with therapist Lauren Auwood about the importance of setting healthy boundaries in pregnancy and new motherhood. They explore the emotional and relational changes that come with becoming a mother, the challenges of navigating family dynamics, and the significance of prioritizing one's own needs. Lauren shares practical steps for establishing boundaries, the common pitfalls mothers face, and how to manage feelings of guilt and discomfort. The discussion emphasizes the need for clear communication and the shift of loyalty from family of origin to family of creation, ultimately advocating for the well-being of mothers and their families.
Takeaways:

Setting boundaries is essential for protecting mental health.
New motherhood brings significant emotional and relational changes.
Clear communication is key in establishing boundaries.
The shift of loyalty from family of origin to family of creation is crucial.
Feeling guilty and being guilty are not the same thing.
Short-term discomfort in setting boundaries leads to long-term relief.
It's important to be a united front with partners when setting boundaries.

What’s covered in this episode:

03:40
Understanding the Emotional Changes of Motherhood

06:11
The Importance of Setting Boundaries

08:52
Defining Boundaries: What They Are and Why They Matter

11:37
The Shift of Loyalty: Family of Origin vs. Family of Creation

14:18
Navigating Hierarchies and Personal Boundaries

17:10
Challenges New Moms Face with Boundaries

19:52
Intergenerational Dynamics and Boundary Setting

22:26
Validating Experiences: A Path to Effective Communication

26:42
Practical Steps to Set Boundaries

32:35
Navigating Guilt and Discomfort

40:13
Holiday Dynamics and Boundary Setting

43:05
Final Tips for Empowered Boundary Setting
Where can you find Lauren:

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The Debrief: Setting Boundaries

The Moms Are Alright

11/27/24 • 18 min

In this conversation, Hila and Caroline explore the complexities of setting boundaries, particularly in the context of motherhood and cultural expectations. They discuss the emotional challenges that come with asserting one's needs, the importance of intentional decision-making, and practical frameworks for effective boundary setting. The conversation also touches on navigating family dynamics, especially during the holiday season, and emphasizes the need for clear communication between partners.

Takeaways

Setting boundaries is one of the hardest skills to build.
It's important to clarify your needs and values.
Being intentional about decisions is crucial.
Cultural expectations can complicate boundary setting.
Negotiating expectations can help maintain relationships.
Communication is key in family dynamics.
Preparing for family gatherings requires teamwork with your partner.

What’s covered in this episode:

00:00
Introduction to Boundaries
05:57
Framework for Boundary Setting

08:04
Cultural Expectations and Boundaries

11:51
Preparing for the Holiday Season

Episode Links
Listen to Lauren's full interview

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The Debrief: Let's Talk About Sex, Baby!

The Moms Are Alright

10/30/24 • 21 min

Summary
In this conversation, Caroline and Hila reflect on their discussion with Dr. Kayla Jimenez about relationships and intimacy during the postpartum period. They explore the importance of emotional intimacy, navigating transitions in relationships, and the challenges couples often face in maintaining connection in early parenthood. The conversation emphasizes the need for open communication, understanding desire discrepancies, and setting boundaries with empathy. They also discuss the role of values and authenticity in relationships, and how emotional connection can enhance physical intimacy.

Takeaways

Emotional intimacy is crucial for maintaining relationships.
Setting aside time for check-ins can strengthen connections.
Understanding desire discrepancies is important for couples.
Curiosity helps in resolving conflicts in relationships.
Values play a significant role in relationship dynamics.
Foreplay is not just physical; it starts with emotional connection.
Maintaining closeness requires ongoing effort and communication.

What’s covered in this episode:
00:00 - When Hila, Caroline, and Kayla first met
02:28 - Navigating changing relationship dynamics postpartum
05:19 - The importance of emotional intimacy
09:04 - Setting physical boundaries with care
12:29 - Understanding conflict in relationships
15:42 - Empathy and vulnerability in communication
19:23 - The intersection physical and emotional intimacy

Episode Links:
Listen to Dr. Kayla’s full interview

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The Debrief: Sleep Like a Baby

The Moms Are Alright

12/18/24 • 26 min

Summary

In this conversation, Caroline and Hila discuss the critical role of sleep in mental health during pregnancy and postpartum. They explore practical strategies for improving sleep and the challenges of insomnia. The conversation emphasizes the importance of creating healthy sleep associations and finding ways to rest even when sleep is elusive. They also address the societal pressures surrounding sleep expectations and the need for self-compassion in navigating these challenges.

Takeaways

Sleep is interconnected with every aspect of life.
Sleep challenges are often dismissed, especially in pregnancy.
Practical strategies can help improve sleep quality.
Worry time can alleviate anxiety around sleep.
Sleep effort can create pressure and worsen sleep issues.
Rest is beneficial even when sleep is not achieved.
Insomnia is a common experience during pregnancy.
Sleep medications are not the first-line treatment.
Self-compassion is key in managing sleep challenges.

Chapters

03:03
Strategies for Better Sleep

05:17
Navigating Sleep During Pregnancy

07:36
Understanding Insomnia and Its Impact

09:56
The Role of Sleep Medications

12:42
Finding Rest in the Chaos

15:08
Practical Tips for Sleep Management

16:37
The Psychological Aspects of Sleep

19:12
Wrapping Up: Embracing Rest and Sleep

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Sleep Like a Baby with Dr. Natalie Solomon

The Moms Are Alright

12/18/24 • 45 min

In this episode, Caroline and Hila discuss the intricate relationship between sleep, anxiety, and mood during pregnancy and the postpartum period with Dr. Natalie Solomon, a licensed clinical sleep psychologist and expert in behavioral sleep medicine. The conversation explores how sleep changes throughout pregnancy and postpartum, and highlights practical strategies for new parents to improve their sleep quality. The episode also addresses common myths about sleep needs and emphasizes the importance of community support for new mothers.

Takeaways

Sleep disruption in pregnancy is often dismissed.
The first trimester is marked by increased fatigue and sleepiness.
Second trimester often brings improved sleep and mood.
Third trimester typically sees increased sleep disruption.
Individual sleep needs vary; the eight-hour myth is inaccurate.
Community support is essential for new parents.
Go with the flow, and expect setbacks.

Chapters

03:18- Understanding Sleep Changes During Pregnancy
06:07- The Impact of Sleep Architecture on Pregnant Women
08:11- Exploring REM Sleep and Its Effects
08:55- Strategies for Improving Sleep Quality
11:52- Navigating Activation and Sleep Hunger
17:45- Tools for Activation and Sleep Hunger
24:20- Understanding Sleep Patterns in Pregnancy and Postpartum
28:06- The Role of Sleep Medications
30:02- Navigating Sleep Disruption as New Parents
42:41- Embracing the Journey of Sleep

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FAQ

How many episodes does The Moms Are Alright have?

The Moms Are Alright currently has 13 episodes available.

What topics does The Moms Are Alright cover?

The podcast is about Health & Fitness, Parenting, Kids & Family, Psychology, Motherhood, Mental Health, Pregnancy and Podcasts.

What is the most popular episode on The Moms Are Alright?

The episode title 'Trailer' is the most popular.

What is the average episode length on The Moms Are Alright?

The average episode length on The Moms Are Alright is 30 minutes.

How often are episodes of The Moms Are Alright released?

Episodes of The Moms Are Alright are typically released every 7 days.

When was the first episode of The Moms Are Alright?

The first episode of The Moms Are Alright was released on Sep 20, 2024.

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The Moms Are Alright

Caroline Dickens & Hila Sachs

Top 10 The Moms Are Alright Episodes

FAQ

How many episodes does The Moms Are Alright have?

What topics does The Moms Are Alright cover?

What is the most popular episode on The Moms Are Alright?

What is the average episode length on The Moms Are Alright?

How often are episodes of The Moms Are Alright released?

When was the first episode of The Moms Are Alright?

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