Mom Mode

Hi Everyone! & thank you for tuning into this week's episode of Mom Mode! On this week's episode we have Becca Bunch Booker! Becca is a first time mom to her 7 month old son and business owner to Homemade Social - a digital marketing agency based in Phoenix, Arizona. During our conversation, Beeca shares her journey through pregnancy, the challenges of having a breech baby, her experience trying the ECV procedure, her experience having a scheduled C-section and the importance of self-care and grace during motherhood. We also dive into what work-life balance has been like being a business owner taking maternity leave and the support systems she has in place allowing for a successful return back. Becca offers valuable advice for other moms navigating similar experiences, emphasizing the importance of preparation and mental health. Get ready for a candid conversation that reminds you: no matter what your pregnancy journey looks like, you’re doing amazing. Hit play to hear the full story—and maybe even learn a thing or two you didn’t know you needed.In this episode, you'll uncover:A first time moms experience having a breech baby and experiencing a positive scheduled c-section.Becca's experience trying the ECV procedure in order to try and flip breech baby.The importance of having a support system, like a nanny, can significantly ease the transition back to work after maternity leave.The importance of communicating your needs with your partner during the postpartum period.Preparation for maternity leave when you are a business owner. Finding a good balance between work and motherhood when returning back to work. Perfect for:Expectant mothers facing breech or complicationsFirst-time moms feeling overwhelmed by birth choicesEntrepreneurs and working moms balancing baby and businessAnyone seeking honest, relatable pregnancy stories with practical tipsAs always, thank you so much for listening to Mom Mode - I hope these conversations bring you something that you needed to hear while on your journey through motherhood and if you enjoyed please leave us a review or subscribe so you can continue following along!xo, Nichole

Hi Everyone! & thank you for tuning into this week's episode of Mom Mode! On this week's episode we have Mandy Davis, mom of two on the podcast!! Mandy Davis, M.Ed., is a former school principal and author of The Homeschool Bible, a definitive guide to homeschooling. She is the founder of Homebuilt Education and leads a community of over 400,000 families online, delivering trusted resources and guidance for parents. Most parents underestimate how liberating—and essential—lifelong homeschooling can be, especially when the school system isn’t working. During our conversation, Mandy reveals the untold truths behind traditional schooling’s pitfalls—from bullying and anxiety to outdated curricula and rigid schedules—and shares how to reclaim your child's education on your own terms. In this episode, Mandy shares her transformational journey from the trenches of the public school system to homeschooling her own children, exposing the systemic issues she encountered that many parents don’t see from the outside. She discusses how bullying, mental health struggles, and misaligned schedules impact kids’ well-being, and explains how homeschooling offers a personalized, less stressful alternative.During this episode we discuss:Why the school day’s timing and structure undermine teenage health and mental wellness.The myths about socialization in homeschooling versus reality—and how kids truly build community.Practical strategies for starting homeschooling even if you work full-time or feel overwhelmed.The power of hybrid models and local co-ops to enrich kids’ social and extracurricular experiences.How emergency remote learning during COVID blurred the line between schooling and actual education—and why it’s not homeschooling.How - The Homeschool Bible is a comprehensive resource for new homeschooling families.This episode is perfect for overwhelmed parents questioning whether the traditional school system is the best fit for their kids, or anyone curious about stepping outside the system but unsure how to start. Mandy’s insights are grounded in her personal story, educational expertise, and her new resources—like the upcoming Homeschool Bible and Parent Planner—designed to guide parents every step of the way. If you’re ready to rethink education, find confidence in your parenting choices, and explore practical options to personalized learning, this episode is your must-listen. The path to empowering your child’s future begins here.Mandy Davis Info:Instagram: @homebuilteducationResources: Thehomeschoolbible.com, HomebuiltEducation.comAs always, thank you so much for listening to Mom Mode - I hope these conversations bring you something that you needed to hear while on your journey through motherhood and if you enjoyed please leave us a review or follow up on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you can continue following along xo, Nichole

In today's episode, we welcome Abbi Warden to the show! Abbi is a Toronto-based COO, proud mom of three under two, and advocate for honest motherhood conversations.Most moms feel like they've lost themselves when new chaos arrives— Abbi's journey from postpartum overwhelm to thriving mom and COO will change how you see your own motherhood experience.During our conversation - Abbi shares her rawest moments of postpartum anxiety, the dramatic shift in her identity after having twins, and the surprising ways she found her confidence again after welcoming her 3rd baby. From living thousands of miles away from family to now finding her groove with three kids, she reveals the importance of community/family, asking for help/accepting help, having a supportive partner and prioritizing self-care amidst chaos.Why this matters: Missing out on your own well-being can leave you stuck in survival mode—Abbi’s story shows it’s not only okay to prioritize yourself but essential to truly enjoy motherhood. Whether you’re pregnant, postpartum, or juggling life with little ones, her insights will inspire you to redefine what success and self-care really mean.This episode isn’t just about surviving—it’s about reclaiming your confidence and remembering who you are outside of motherhood’s chaos.During this episode we discuss:How postpartum anxiety can sneak up even when everything looks "okay" on the surface.The real truth behind postpartum identity shifts and feeling like you’ve lost yourself.Practical advice for asking for help and building your village, especially when living far from family.The unexpected relief of returning to work—what Abby calls her purpose—after feeling lost.The behind-the-scenes of her hernia battle and how medical uncertainty affected her mental health.Finding her “Pink” and what its like prioritizing yourself from time to time.Experience around exclusively breastfeedingFollow Abbi on Instagram! @abbiwardenAs always, thank you so much for listening to Mom Mode - I hope these conversations bring you something that you needed to hear while on your journey through motherhood and if you enjoyed this episode please leave a review and follow wherever you listen so you never miss an episode! XO, Nichole

Please join me in welcoming Meems Gillette to Mom Mode as we have such a fun and honest conversation about motherhood and what it is like to have 2 kids in your mid-40s. A journey that began for Meems with IVF due to male factor, transitioning from being a teacher to a SAHM, balancing a healthy marriage by maintaining individuality and advocating for herself when it came to experiencing perimenopause. We truly talk through it all! Once becoming a mom to her second child she also started posting on social media as a way to connect with other women and find community and now content creates full time by sharing raw relatable and unfiltered mom humor!During this episode we discuss:How perimenopause is often overlooked in women's health discussions and how important it is to find the answers you need. How motherhood can feel isolating, but community helps and the power of social media is great for finding that community of women. The journey of IVF due to male factor. Finding balance between self-care and parenting.Maintaining individuality in marriage is important and finding a good routine that works for both.Ways that parenting gets easier but also harder as your kids continue to grow. For more from Meems, follow her on Instagram @twolittlestolove  !As always, thank you so much again for listening to Mom Mode - I hope these conversations bring you something that you needed to hear while on your journey through motherhood! XO, Nichole

In today's episode, I have a beautiful conversation with Danielle Marple (mother of 3) where we talk about her profound journey through motherhood which began at 24 after finding out she carried the gene BRCA1- after a year of research her and her boyfriend (now husband) decided the best case would be removal of fallopian tubes to reduce the risk of her having cancer in the future. The downside was that IVF would in their future when they were ready to grow their family. During their first transfer - Danielle and her husband found out they were having twin girls and could not be more excited! On a trip to Paris she was extremely swollen but thought it was due to traveling. After being back home and the swelling not going away she went to the doctor to find out she in fact had preeclampsia. Her twin girls were born at 25 weeks and although they are healthy and hitting all the milestones now it was a long journey for them in the NICU. Danielle discusses the importance of faith, community support, and the lessons learned from her pregnancy, including the healing process after trauma. They decided their family was not complete with just 2 and had another IVF transfer (their now son)! This pregnancy was much different although there were fears due to her previous experience which we talked through and how she handled them and now they feel complete as a family of 5! This episode is for any mom who has experienced trauma during conception, pregnancy or delivery - in hopes that Danielle's journey can inspire you to heal and continue to grow your family and not let the trauma or fear step in the way. Thank you so much for being here, for listening and I hope this helps someone who needs to hear a similar journey. During this episode we discuss:Danielle's journey to motherhood began with a BRCA1 mutation diagnosis.She had to undergo IVF to grow her family due to her genetic risks.Her twin daughters were born at 25 weeks, leading to a challenging NICU experience.Faith and community support played a crucial role in her recovery.She encourages mothers to envision their family's future when considering more children and to not let fear get in the way. The healing process after trauma can be gradual but is essential for moving forward.She advocates for awareness and research around preeclampsia.For more from Danielle, follow her Instagram! @daniellepmarpleThank you so much for listening! Enjoy!

In today's episode, I sit down with Registered Dietician Leslee Flannery to discuss ALL Things Gestational Diabetes. This is not something I personally have experienced during pregnancy but it is something us moms are at risk for and I thought who better to talk to about it than Leslee. Leslee has spent 13+ years working with women/moms who currently have gestational diabetes, previously had gestational diabetes or are just looking to stabilize blood sugars. While working her dream job at a local MFM OB office she realized that gestational diabetic women only met with a dietician one time their entire pregnancy and that's when she realized there was a need. In 2020 Gestational Diabetes Nutrition was created! You canreach out to Leslee if you have further questions about what she offers and how she can help! I will list her contact info below!During this episode we talk about;How to manage gestational diabetes. Is gestational diabetes avoidable?Who is more susceptible to getting gestational diabetes.Eating consistently every two to three hours helps maintain blood sugar levels.Dieting and restricting can hinder pregnancy growth.Why Carbohydrates are not inherently bad; they just need to be consumed correctly.Portion control of carbohydrates is essential for blood sugar management.The importance of balancing meals with protein, fiber, and fat alongside carbohydrates.Misconceptions around cutting carbs for gestational diabetes.Proper meal timing can significantly impact blood sugar stability.Alternatives around the glucose drink. Leslee Flannery Info:Instagram: @gestational.diabetes.nutrition Website: gdmnutrition.com As always, thank you so much again for listening to Mom Mode - I hope these conversations bring you something that you needed to hear while on your journey through motherhood! XO, Nichole

Welcome back to Mom Mode Season 2! During the first week of 2026 we are welcoming Liz Webber to the podcast as she shares her journey as a content creator and mother of two beautiful little girls! Liz discusses her long-term relationship with her husband and the many seasons of life they have grown through together, their decision on when it was time to start a family as well as the joys and challenges that come with motherhood. Liz dives into her transition from her full time career into content creation, the importance of community among moms and how having a mom community across social media has helped her so much, and shares some of her experiences with pregnancy and parenting. She emphasizes on the significance of self-care for mothers and shares insights on navigating life changes, moving into a new home and habit breaking…for Liz it was breaking the habit of needing a latte daily. I loved our conversation and I hope you enjoy it too!For more from Liz & Mom Social Club follow along @lizwebber_ & @mom.social.club!Thank you for listening to Mom Mode- I hope these conversations bring you something that you needed to hear while on your journey through motherhood. XO 

In this episode of Mom Mode, mom of 4, Kirstin Czernek (@kirstinczernek) shares her experiences of guiding her children through adversity and the challenges of having difficult conversations with them. She emphasizes the importance of resilience and the strength that comes from facing whatever life has in store together as a family and how going through one of the most difficult times in their lives made them stronger. Kirstin’s motherhood journey began when she and her husband Tomas adopted siblings from foster care and then continued to grow in the most unique selfless way. Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply curious, this episode promises to enlighten and inspire. Thank you so much for listening! Enjoy!

On today's episode of Mom Mode, I sit down with Haley Hendel, the inspiring mom behind "Hot Mom Meal Prep." Discover how Haley balances motherhood, fitness, and content creation while sharing her journey from a full-time job to becoming a successful content creator. Learn about her meal prep strategies, fitness routines, and the importance of self-care for moms. Whether you're looking for tips on healthy living or inspiration to pursue your passions, this episode is packed with valuable insights and heartfelt honesty for moms who want to maintain their own health while caring for a family at the same time. I truly hope you enjoy this engaging conversation that celebrates the joys and challenges of modern motherhood as much as I did.For more from Haley, follow her instagram @_haleyhendel!Thank you so much for listening!

In this episode of Mom Mode, Dr. Shannyn Pearce DC shares her personal journey with Epstein-Barr virus, discussing the challenges of diagnosis, the impact on her health, and the importance of understanding the impact this often-misunderstood virus can have. Dr. Shannyn emphasizes the need for proper testing, the connection between Epstein-Barr and various autoimmune conditions, and offers insights into managing symptoms and flare-ups. The conversation also touches on the role of lifestyle, nutrition, and adjunct therapies in healing, as well as the potential links between long COVID and chronic viruses, such as Epstein-Barr. Dr. Pearce encourages listeners to advocate for their health and seek answers to their symptoms. If you feel that you are not getting the answers you are seeking when it comes to your health, this is a great episode to listen to as it is informative for all. For more from Dr. Shannyn, visit her @Her website: https://www.journeytowellnessplan.com/Her Instagram: @drshannyndcHer YouTube: @JourneytoWellnessPlanThank you so much for listening!

In this episode of Mom Mode, I sit down with Brittany Johnson, also known as Hillside Highland on Instagram.Brittany shares her inspiring journey from a life without any ranching background to running a full-fledged ranch in Eastern Washington. Discover the story of how the ranch was "born from a broken heart" and how she and her family embraced the challenges and joys of ranch life, the lessons learned along the way, and the importance of courage and resilience. Whether you're curious about moving out of the city and into the wild, ranching, motherhood on a farm, highland cattle, or simply looking for a story of transformation and perseverance, this episode is a must-listen.For more of Brittany's amazing content, follow her on instagram @hillsidehighland. Thank you so much for listening! Enjoy!

Please join me in this uplifting episode of Mom Mode as I chat with the inspiring Jessica Clarke Higgins.Discover how Jessica's journey of becoming a mom has been a transformative experience filled with self love, laughter and understanding what it takes to navigate postpartum. From embracing self-love, to understanding the dynamics of marriage after a baby and the unexpected beauty of slowing down to enjoy life’s simple moments, Jess shares her secrets to finding happiness and fulfillment as a mom all while also still running her business Higgy Skin. I hope you enjoy this lovely conversation filled with personal insights and practical tips for new moms as much as I did. For more from Jess, follow her @jessclarke_ or visit her skincare business at higgyskin.com!Thank you so much for listening!

In this heartfelt episode of Mom Mode, I sat down with Shelby Cannon to share the incredible journey of her son, Benny. From the challenges faced during his first year of life after experiencing a hypoxic brain injury at daycare to the miraculous strides he has made and is continuing to make, Shelby opens up about the trials, faith, and community support that have shaped their family's path.Tune in to hear a story of resilience, love, and the power of believing in miracles.If you would like to continue to follow Benny's journey be sure to follow Shelby on instagram at @shelbcannon or follow their facebook group at BEElieve in Benny !Thank you so much for listening, Enjoy!

In this episode of Mom Mode, I have the pleasure of chatting with Holly Fischer, a first-time mom who turned her maternity leave into a social media success story. Join me as we discover how Holly navigated the challenges of new motherhood while building a viral presence online. From leaving her corporate job to becoming a full-time content creator, Holly opens up about the joys and challenges of motherhood, and how she balances her online presence with family life. Holly also shares some amazing tips for new moms, the importance of community, traveling moms, and moms looking to make their mark in the digital world.For more of Holly, follow her instagram @hollykfischer_Thank you so much for listening! Enjoy!

Thanks for tuning in as welcome Action Jacquelyn, the founder of Barre Definition, and former Ballerina, NBA Dancer, celebrity trainer, Wife, Mother, & Entrepreneur to discuss the her transformative journey of motherhood. From her inspiring home birth story to balancing life as a mompreneur, Jacquelyn shares insights on embracing natural childbirth, the power of trusting your body, and the joys and challenges of raising a toddler. I hope you enjoy this empowering conversation that celebrates the strength and resilience of mothers everywhere!For more from Jacquelyn, follow her instagram @actionjacquelyn or download her amazing fitness app at barredefinition.com!Thank you so much for listening!

On today's episode of Mom Mode, I chat Chrissy Lawler, the renowned "Peaceful Sleeper" and mom of 4, about the art of getting babies to sleep soundly. Chrissy shares her expert strategies for establishing healthy sleep habits in infants, discovering how to navigate common sleep challenges, create a soothing bedtime routine, and understand the unique sleep needs of your little one. We also dive deeply into the controversy behind "crying it out" and so much more! Whether you're a new parent or looking to improve your child's sleep, this episode is packed with practical advice to help your baby and you rest easy. Chrissy is a a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and baby sleep consultant with a focus on taking the stress out of sleep training and get everyone in the family a good night’s rest. She is an amazing resourceto help you enjoy motherhood–not just endure it.For more from Chrissy follow her instagram @the.peaceful.sleeper or visit her website thepeacefulsleeper.com for more helpful resources or to book a consult directly!Thank you so much for listening! Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this heartfelt episode as I sit down with incredible mother of three, Madison Feinberg (@mads_gainz), to explore her extraordinary journey of carrying and raising extremely rare Momo twins. Madison shares the challenges and triumphs of her high-risk pregnancy, the emotional rollercoaster of living in the hospital, NICU life, and the joys of documenting her unique experience. Discover how she navigated the complexities of motherhood with resilience and grace, offering inspiration and insights for parents everywhere.(Monochorionic monoamniotic (mo/mo) twins are two identical babies from one fertilized egg, who develop with the same placenta and in the same amniotic sac.)For more of Madison's incredible journey and amazing content follow her on instagram @mads_gainz!Thank you so much for listening!

Thank you for tuning in for this enlightening episode of Mom Mode as I sit down with Dr. Samantha Ess, a naturopathic doctor specializing in fertility and hormone health. Join us in discovering the power of natural medicine, the intricacies of PCOS, and the importance of gut health in achieving optimal wellness for conception. Whether you're navigating infertility or simply curious about holistic health, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Tune in and empower your health journey!Dr. Samantha is the founder of Walk the Natural Path Hormone Health and Fertility Care, where she provides holistic care to patients across the United States. Her approach focuses on individualized treatment plans that integrate natural therapies to support hormone balance and fertility.For more from Dr. Samantha, follow her instagram @walkthenaturalpath, or visit her website - www.walkthenaturalpath.com if you are interested in booking a consult!Thank you so much for listening! Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this inspiring episode of Mom Mode as I sit down with Francesca LoChirco, a dynamic mom who successfully balances a full-time career as a pharmacist, motherhood, and her own personal wellness. Francesca shares about her motherhood journey, transitioning careers while pregnant, and the mental and physical shifts that have empowered her to thrive in both her professional and personal life.We dove into her morning routine and how it sets the tone for her day, challenges and triumphs while pregnant, navigating postpartum anxiety and the importance of mental health. Francesca also shares some tips for integrating self-care into a busy schedule and and how to maintain the role of supportive partnerships in achieving work-life balance, and so much more!Thank you so much for listening! I hope you Enjoy this conversation as much as I did!Please Subscribe to Mom Mode for more inspiring stories and practical tips on navigating the beautiful chaos of motherhood!

In this episode, Lauren Nolan, author of the renowned blog, Lake Shore Lady, shares her unique journey to motherhood, becoming a mom at 37, and the transformative experiences that come with it. We discuss the challenges and joys of parenting, the importance of maintaining a strong relationship with our husbands, and the societal pressures surrounding motherhood. Lauren emphasizes the significance of individual timelines in motherhood and encourages women to trust their instincts and embrace their unique journeys.For more of Lauren, follow here instagram @lakeshorelady or check out her blog at lakeshorelady.com!Thank you so much for listening!