Love After Lullabies

**Special Re-Release of S1 E6 with Steve Calis** Join us as Steve Calis tells his serendipitous love story, which ultimately saved his life. Steve shares his experience of love, self identity and his role in becoming a new dad.  (This episode contains sensitive material including suicide ideation and intent, which could be triggering for some listeners.  Please take care while listening.) Steve Calis is a podcaster from the small town of Yeovil, Somerset in the UK. He is engaged to the love of his life and has a beautiful son.   Steve hosts The Steve Calls show! Steve is on a journey to be a better man. or, at least, a less stupid one. Join Steve each week as he sits with his two friends Kevin and George and often some very special guests to figure out what life is really all about. Enter the unusual, funny, warm and chaotic world of Steve Calis and join him on a quest to answer life's biggest questions and lots of life's small, weird questions too! Listen to the Steve Calis Show here: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AUqedDpgolrI1cQUAAUYy If you or someone you know is suffering from a mental health crisis, please reach out for help. If you are located in the United States, call Lifeline at 988. If you are located in the UK, call 116 123 or visit: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/guides-to-support-and-services/crisis-services/helplines-listening-services/?fbclid=IwAR0Ym31CWh2yuFDDoo6mIaJJkPbKdlkX3YUAYSWhuk6VFVU3VKI_W76pANE Don't forget to follow Love After Lullabies on Instagram for all the behind the scenes content: https://www.instagram.com/loveafterlullabies/ Also, if you'd like to be a guest on our show, please email us at: loveafterlullablies@gmail.com

In this BONUS episode, Maria Berglund, founder of InKind Boxes, shares her experiences with postpartum care and the inspiration behind her nonprofit organization. She discusses the differences between postpartum care in Canada and the US, highlighting the lack of support and attention given to new mothers in the US healthcare system. Maria explains how her own postpartum experiences led her to create InKind Boxes, which provides carefully curated postpartum care packages for families. She emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and receiving help during the postpartum period, as well as the need for intentional postpartum planning and support. In this conversation, Love After Lullabies and Maria discuss the challenges of setting boundaries and breaking people-pleasing habits as parents. They also explore the impact of in-kind gift boxes on families in need and share personal stories of giving and receiving these boxes. Maria shares her experience of moving to a new country and adjusting to parenthood. They discuss the importance of self-care and supportive partnerships, as well as the value of honest conversations about postpartum experiences. They also highlight the importance of finding support and community as parents and provide information on how to get involved with In-Kind. Check out their website: https://inkindboxes.org/ Be sure to follow InKind on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inkindboxes/ Don't forget to follow us on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/loveafterlullabies/⁠⁠⁠⁠ Also, the best form of support in the Podcast world is to leave us a rating an review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. YOU are the heartbeat of Love After Lullabies! If you'd like to be on our show, we would love to have you! DM us on instagram, or email us at: loveafterlullabies@gmail.com

On today's episode, we're joined by the incredible Christina and Charlie Walker. Together, we explore a variety of subjects, from cultivating community to redefining parenthood, and how working collaboratively strengthens our bonds and inspires those around us. Join us as we delve into their remarkable journey. Christina Walker has been a private vocal performance coach for over 20 years. She is the CEO of PRACTICE-POLISH-PERFORM®, a virtual training program for youth performers, and is pioneering Performing Arts Mindset™education in the youth performing arts industry. Christina is a mom of 4 (ages 16-20) and lives in Dallas, TX. Charlie P. Walker is an Associate Director of Cardio-Renal Sales at Boehringer-Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, where he’s been employed for the past 20 years. He started his career in Tennessee, where he met his wife Christina, before moving to Dallas Texas in 2015. Charlie is a Florida native, but made Tennessee his home after attending Carson-Newman University on a football scholarship, where he received a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology. After pursuing a professional football career and serving as a public school teacher, Charlie worked as Director of Personal Training with the Bally Total Fitness Corporation and as a Youth Pastor in Knoxville, TN where he achieved his Master’s Degree in Biomechanics from the University of Tennessee in 2007. In addition, Charlie is active in the community, serving on the Board of Directors with Fellowship of Christian Athletes, as a NCAA Character Coach, and volunteering as a Regional Team Captain for All Pro Dads. He and his wife Christina serve at Covenant Church in Carrollton TX (North Dallas) with their four beautiful and talented children, Lyric, Malachi, Maya, and Solomon. https://www.practicepolishperform.com/theroadtothestage/ If you want to take advantage of Christina's offer, use the code LoveAfterLullabies30%off in the checkout cart to redeem your performance mindset journey!

Join us as we sit with Rodd and Alexandra, a married couple and relationship coaches, as they share their experiences and insights on maintaining intimacy and connection after becoming parents. They discuss the challenges they faced during the transition to parenthood, including the lack of sleep and support. They also highlight the dynamics of being firstborns and how it influenced their parenting journey and the importance of finding something more in their relationship and the process of reigniting the spark. They talk about seeking guidance and education to improve their relationship and build intimacy and also discuss the significance of sharing vulnerability and desire in cultivating a strong connection. Finally, they reflect on changing assumptions and goals and the courage it takes to speak up about their needs and desires. In this conversation, Rodd and Alexandra share their insights on building intimacy and connection in a relationship, especially after having children. They discuss the importance of shared experiences and having a common goal in maintaining a strong partnership. They also emphasize the power of choosing one's experience and finding moments of connection throughout the day. Practical strategies for intimacy, such as appreciating non-sexual physical touch and creating intentional moments of connection, are explored. The conversation concludes with information about Alexandra's work and resources, including the Honeymoon 2.0 retreat. How to reach Alexandra:website https://www.alexandrastockwell.com/The Intimate Marriage Podcast:www.alexandrastockwell.com/podcast“Uncompromising Intimacy”www.alexandrastockwell.com/book IGhttps://www.instagram.com/intimacydoctor/ FBhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093537316555 LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandrastockwell/Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@intimacydoctor Tiktokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@intimacydoctor

In this solo episode, Miranda and Aaron dissect further into their conflict pattern, with a recent uptick of tension in the house. With a commitment to growth and understanding, they reflect and explore strategies for healthier communication.  Drawing from Miranda's recent participation in a sex therapy course, they delve into the topic of intimacy and its intersection with technology. The conversation takes an unexpected turn as they broach the subject of sex robots, sparking a thought-provoking and controversial dialogue around the ethical and emotional implications of such innovations on human relationships.  From navigating arguments to the future of intimacy, this episode promises laughter, introspection, and maybe even a few cringy eyebrow-raising moments! For more info on the Texas Obscenity Statute: ⁠https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/docs/pe/htm/pe.43.htm⁠ Don't forget to follow us on Instagram for behind the scenes and upcoming info: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/loveafterlullabies/⁠ If you'd like to be a guest on our show, we'd love to have you! Reach out via instagram, or email us at: loveafterlullabies@gmail.com

In this candid episode, Rachel Needham, a career woman, single parent, mindset and relationship coach, and author of the book Blueprints for Divorce, shares her story and what led her to become a single parent. She discusses the red flags she noticed in her relationship before having kids and how those issues were already present. Rachel also talks about the expectations of marriage from religious and societal influences and how they can impact relationships. She shares her experience of ending the relationship and the response she received from others, while emphasizing the importance of self-care and self-love during and after divorce. The conversation also touches on personal growth and the concept of free will within the context of religion. Rachael also discusses her book, 'Blueprints for Divorce,' which offers guidance and support for individuals going through a divorce, in a novel way. Takeaways Red flags in a relationship should not be ignored, as they can indicate underlying issues that may become more pronounced after having children. Expectations of marriage from religious and societal influences can put pressure on couples and may not align with the reality of their relationship. Ending a relationship can be difficult, and the response from others may vary. It's important to prioritize self-care and surround yourself with supportive people. Self-care and self-love are crucial during and after divorce to heal and rebuild a fulfilling life. Emotional safety and trust are crucial in relationships. It is important to determine how much we are willing to open up emotionally to certain people and establish trust to create a safe space. Personal growth and the concept of free will can be explored within the context of religion. It is important to find what is right and good for oneself and one's family. Separation and divorce can be challenging, but choosing love for oneself and one's children is a powerful decision. The book 'Blueprints for Divorce' offers guidance and support for individuals going through a divorce, providing a choose-your-own-adventure approach to navigating the process. Purchase your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Blueprints-Divorce-Love-Sacrifice-Redemption/dp/B0CTYB9H4L/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3N1R4U8PBXTXW&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.vPu1Q8qQjpYhC-mEQmuyWyOL3vgoFko3yLkawc8IOaXWKoOaAVjOiGtzQ96PRsb8JCDtHUkped0hzPV3jN8fUAk9tZKoGasd_BxHMxjqasGLZVkMyye3LR7yaXL9dg5S0fQj-LT9FQ93cAfcgDa1ah0dw49eZh9lnVWJ3d6cy4zyeE4SneamPHupdo6GVRkIyVgBkQ31LGbT52ZeqwexJlSDDjK1zah9g9SMyVNZ2rw.NE3xbK65y878sn6y2I2erNtcIjAkVomKq0DmCDbymGk&dib_tag=se&keywords=blueprints+for+divorce&qid=1710791048&sprefix=blueprints+for+divorce%2Caps%2C297&sr=8-1 About Rachael: Rachael is a mindset and relationship coach, business owner, single parent, friend, and lover of life and God. Having lived in France to get her master's degree, Rachael now speaks French with her girl-boy twins. The three of them love both exploring the world and living on their Midwest farm with their Goldendoodle, orange cat, and robo-vacuum. https://rachaelneedham.com/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 00:26 Growing Up and Getting Married 03:02 Starting the Healing Process 04:00 Writing the Book 05:27 Expectations vs Reality 05:44 Recognizing Red Flags 07:19 The Influence of Religion 09:28 Deciding to End the Relationship 09:47 Response from Others 10:46 Guilt and Responsibility 12:10 Leaving the Relationship 13:00 Emotional Safety and Trust 17:17 Dating and Relationships 20:06 Dealing with an Unhealthy Marriage 21:11 The Decision to Divorce 22:10 The Response of the Ex-Spouse 24:56 The Act of Love in Divorce 26:44 The Book 'Blueprints for Divorce'

In this episode, Leslie and Brady share their journey of leaving traditional 9 to 5 jobs to pursue entrepreneurship while embracing stay-at-home parenthood. From navigating challenges of balancing family life and business ventures to finding fulfillment in pursuing their passions, their story inspires and motivates. Tune in as they discuss the joys and hurtles of their transition. Bio from our guests: Leslie and Brady Huffer started a digital marketing side hustle soon after they got married as a creative outlet and additional income stream while she was a special education teacher and he was in corporate sales. Their marketing agency, Hey Huffers, grew faster than they had anticipated and they decided to take the leap to quit their 9 to 5 jobs to run it full-time together. A week later they found out they were pregnant and expecting a baby girl! Now they get to run their business and be home and present with their daughter each day! In addition to Hey Huffers, Leslie has started a community to help other moms launch profitable at-home businesses as well as sharing simple everyday activities to keep kids engaged, learning, and growing each day called The Joyful Work at Home Mama. They love empowering other families to live life on their own terms! Social Media: Instagram: @thejoyful_WAHM and @heyhuffers Don't forget to follow Love After Lullabies on instagram, and reach out if you'd like to be a guest!

In this captivating podcast episode, Vallen and John open up about their remarkable journey of overcoming devastating challenges in their relationship. From navigating the complexities of military life to grappling with the profound loss of a child and the revelation of an affair, they share their raw and inspiring story of resilience and redemption. Throughout this deeply personal conversation, Vallen and John underscore the transformative power of therapy and individual growth in the process of rebuilding trust and finding forgiveness. Despite the lingering scars and ongoing healing process, their unwavering commitment to each other shines through as they embrace the delicate dance of balancing personal aspirations with a united vision for their shared future. As they delve into the delicate topic of infidelity, the couple offers insightful tips on sustaining connection and intimacy in a relationship. From understanding each other's unique communication styles to fostering a safe space for honest dialogue, Vallen and John elucidate on the importance of confronting resentment and seeking support from trusted therapists and loved ones. A poignant highlight of their conversation is the emphasis on self-reliance and personal fulfillment, with both partners advocating for the importance of individuals being whole and complete within themselves, rather than solely relying on their partners for fulfillment. Inspirational and thought-provoking, Vallen and John's story serves as a beacon of hope for couples facing similar challenges, encouraging them to engage in open, honest conversations and make collective decisions about the future of their relationship. Join us as we embark on this poignant journey of healing, growth, and the enduring power of love. Bio about Vallen and John: Hey there, we're Jonathan & Vallen, a family-oriented duo navigating the twists and turns of life with love, laughter, and a whole lot of chaos! I'm Jonathan, a tech enthusiast, Writer and aspiring to be the best me possible and this is my incredible wife, Vallen, a devoted postpartum doula who really goes the length to show compassion and guidance to other moms who not only had successful births but provides support to those who have lost a little one in the process. Between us, we're raising a lively brood of four amazing kids, ranging from 10 years old to a precious 8-month-old bundle of joy. Our family is the heart and soul of everything we do, infusing each day with warmth, adventure, and a healthy dose of pandemonium! Our journey has been a tapestry woven with threads of love, resilience, and growth. Alongside our professional pursuits and the joys of parenthood, we've weathered the storm of infidelity, emerging stronger and more united than ever before. We are going to be honest, it’s tough on both sides and some days can be torturous, but we made a commitment to not give up, there is love and desire to build anew what we lost and took for granted. We're not here to pretend we have all the answers, but as a family who's been through the fire and come out the other side, we hope that by sharing our experiences, we can offer a beacon of hope and solidarity to anyone navigating similar challenges. Join us as we open about our journey, share candid reflections, and offer practical advice for those on their own path to healing and renewal.

Get your tissues ready for the finale of the Making Maya series! This episode contains information on legal matters, and a final wrap up. Please note: we are not giving legal advice, just merely sharing our own experience of the process. If you are looking into the known donor process, please consult a legal professional and research the law requirements in your state. This series, will shed light on the intricate tapestry of modern families and the beautiful connections forged through selflessness, trust, and unwavering friendship. We encourage you to listen to the Making Maya series from the start, on January 9th for it to make the most sense. Thank you so much for your love and support, it has felt overwhelming (in a good way!) Don't forget to follow us on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/loveafterlullabies/⁠⁠⁠ Also, the best form of support in the Podcast world is to leave us a rating an review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. YOU are the heartbeat of Love After Lullabies! If you'd like to be on our show, we would love to have you! DM us on instagram, or email us at: loveafterlullabies@gmail.com

Welcome to Part 6 of the Making Maya series, where we discuss how we came up with the vocabulary of our relationship. This series, will shed light on the intricate tapestry of modern families and the beautiful connections forged through selflessness, trust, and unwavering friendship. We encourage you to listen to the Making Maya series from the start, on January 9th for it to make the most sense. Thank you so much for your love and support, it has felt overwhelming (in a good way!) Don't forget to follow us on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/loveafterlullabies/⁠⁠⁠ Also, the best form of support in the Podcast world is to leave us a rating an review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. YOU are the heartbeat of Love After Lullabies! If you'd like to be on our show, we would love to have you! DM us on instagram, or email us at: loveafterlullabies@gmail.com

Join us in part 5 of the Making Maya series: the Birth. Nicole and Krista discuss their experience of giving birth in the heart of COVID, while Miranda and Aaron discuss their experience of waiting for the call states away. This series, will shed light on the intricate tapestry of modern families and the beautiful connections forged through selflessness, trust, and unwavering friendship. We encourage you to listen to the Making Maya series from the start, on January 9th for it to make the most sense. Thank you so much for your love and support, it has felt overwhelming (in a good way!) Don't forget to follow us on Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/loveafterlullabies/⁠⁠ Also, the best form of support in the Podcast world is to leave us a rating an review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. YOU are the heartbeat of Love After Lullabies! If you'd like to be on our show, we would love to have you! DM us on instagram, or email us at: loveafterlullabies@gmail.com

This continuation of the Making Maya series is short, but very impactful. Miranda discusses her experience being the partner of Aaron in full transparency. Nicole describes her experience of finding her place living in a hetero-normative society when it comes to parental leave. This series, will shed light on the intricate tapestry of modern families and the beautiful connections forged through selflessness, trust, and unwavering friendship. We encourage you to listen to the Making Maya series from the start, on January 9th for it to make the most sense. Thank you so much for your love and support, it has felt overwhelming (in a good way!) Don't forget to follow us on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/loveafterlullabies/⁠ Also, the best form of support in the Podcast world is to leave us a rating an review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. YOU are the heartbeat of Love After Lullabies! If you'd like to be on our show, we would love to have you! DM us on instagram, or email us at: loveafterlullabies@gmail.com

The story continues, as we address what was originally a dealbreaker! Learn how we created made some wiggle room around the dealbreaker of physical vicinity and how we made it comfortable for everyone. This series, will shed light on the intricate tapestry of modern families and the beautiful connections forged through selflessness, trust, and unwavering friendship. We encourage you to listen to the Making Maya series from the start, on January 9th for it to make the most sense. Thank you so much for your love and support, it has felt overwhelming (in a good way!) Don't forget to follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loveafterlullabies/ Also, the best form of support in the Podcast world is to leave us a rating an review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to your podcasts. YOU are the heartbeat of Love After Lullabies! If you'd like to be on our show, we would love to have you! DM us on instagram, or email us at: loveafterlullabies@gmail.com

The story continues as we dive into the next phase of our known donor journey: shipping of the goods. Get ready to laugh with us in part 2 of this series as we recount our experience with the awkwardness of the situation. This series, will shed light on the intricate tapestry of modern families and the beautiful connections forged through selflessness, trust, and unwavering friendship. Don't forget to follow us on Instagram for behind the scenes content:  ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/loveafterlullabies/⁠⁠ Also, if you want to be a guest on the show, we'd love to have you! DM us on instagram or email us at: loveafterlullabies@gmail.com

It's finally here! In this heartfelt part 1 episode, we delve into the wonderful journey of two couples, navigating the uncharted territories of friendship, trust, and parenthood. Join us as we explore the unique experience of our friends, Nicole and Krista, approaching us to embark on the journey of known donorship. Discover the complexities, emotions, and conversations involved in the decision-making process as these friends bridge gaps of biology in pursuit of a shared dream. This series, will shed light on the intricate tapestry of modern families and the beautiful connections forged through selflessness, trust, and unwavering friendship. Don't forget to follow us on Instagram for behind the scenes content:  ⁠https://www.instagram.com/loveafterlullabies/⁠ Also, if you want to be a guest on the show, we'd love to have you! DM us on instagram or email us at: loveafterlullabies@gmail.com

Get ready for the vulnerable episode series with this preview of our story of being a known donor. We sit down with Maya's parents as we share our feelings about the upcoming episode series and our reason for sharing our experiences. Throughout this upcoming series, we will be sharing our experience of how they proposed the idea, how we made the decision, the nuances of giving birth during COVID, legal and family ramifications and much, much more! We are excited to share our deep personal journey, and hope that this will begin to normalize the idea of modern families.

Happy Holidays everyone! Tune in next week for a preview of what is to come for the new year! We finally start to share our story of being known donors, along with their moms. You don't want to miss it! We will also include some fun episodes, educational episodes, and will also continue to showcase couples stories throughout the year. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you so much, and have a wonderful holiday! Don't forget to follow us on social @LoveAfterLullabies

Join us for an enlightening episode delving into the art of breastfeeding with lactation consultant and author, Kelly Durbin. In this discussion, Kelly shares invaluable insights, tips, and empowering advice on the intricacies of nurturing a successful breastfeeding journey. Kelly's expertise provides a beacon of guidance for mothers and partners seeking support and confidence in their breastfeeding experience. Purchase Kelly Durbin's book here: https://www.amazon.com/Protecting-Potential-Breastfeeding-Kelly-Durbin/dp/1946665665/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2AEGEJ2WE211G&keywords=protecting+your+potential+for+breastfeeding&qid=1701973932&sprefix=protecting+your+potenti%2Caps%2C200&sr=8-1 Here are other ways you can support Kelly and her book: • Share on your socials. • Buy the book for a pregnant friend. • Call or email your local library and request that they get a copy (or two). • Ask a local bookstore to stock the book. • Recommend the book to a friend. • If you have read it, write a book review on Amazon. Don't forget to follow Love After Lullabies on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/loveafterlullabies/

Get ready for a lively and unconventional peek into modern parenting! In this episode, we dive into the world of Caitlin and Jerome, fellow podcasters and a couple who have flipped the traditional parenting script. Jerome takes on the role of stay-at-home dad while Caitlin thrives as the family's breadwinner. Joins us as they share anecdotes, challenges and authentic experience in navigating this societal role reversal. From feeding challenges to career juggling, this duo gives us a candid and entertaining look into their modern-day family adventure. Tune in to hear how their podcasting, parenting and partnership antics redefine the norms of today's family life. Caitlin + Jerome live in Michigan with their adorable daughter:) Check out their podcast: Everyday Parents https://open.spotify.com/show/2kU5bpukuLklE4Qqu2cbEn Follow them on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everydayparentspod/ Also, here is the link to the article that was mentioned in the episode: https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2023/01/24/parenting-in-america-today/ As always, don't forget to leave us a comment about this episode! Your support goes further than you think! And don't forget to follow us on Instagram for behind the scenes content: https://www.instagram.com/loveafterlullabies/

Today's episode is full of helpful ways to deal with conflict and remain connected just in time for the holiday. Learn about Bids of Connection, Using I Statements the right way, How to Repair, and of course, the episode is not complete without a few holiday memories shared. Don't forget to get your free Relationship Rubric to keep your relationship on track. Don't forget to follow us on Instagram to get behind the scenes action as well as video clips of our interviews @LoveAfterLullabies Also call in at 503.610.6104 if you want to share something, ask questions, or give suggestions of what you want to hear.