STOP. Telling Me to Relax...For Single Moms Who Don't Have Time to Chill

Nikki Mendes is an entertainment industry executive and single mother to a six-year-old boy. In this episode Nikki shares her journey of motherhood. Reflecting on her experiences with fertilty treatment and pregnancy loss. Discussing the challenges/joys of raising her son especially in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic and the changes it brought to her social circle. The conversation delves into the impact of the pandemic on urban living, the importance of community, and how it all impacted her decision to relocate from Brooklyn to New Jersey. With honesty and resilience, she shares her lived experiences around the emotional complexities of co-parenting after her relationship with her son's father ended, single motherhood and the dating landscape. A journey that she hopes will encourage and uplift other single moms who are navigating the challenges, rewards, and personal growth while raising children on their own.- - - - - - - - -- - -- - - - - -- -Follow on social media:Instagram: @stoptellingmetorelax_IGTik Tok: @stoptellingmetorelax_TTLinktree: linktr.ee/stoptellingmetorelaxContact Information:Veronica WelchEmail: stoptellingmetorelax@gmail.comInstagram: @vwelch85Monetary Support for Stop Telling Me to Relax WelcomeHERE  - - - - - - - - > Venmo   PayPal

In this episode of 'Stop Telling Me to Relax', host Veronica W. reflects on her post-holiday recovery and dives into the latest season of 'The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills'. She discusses the themes of single motherhood, divorce, and relationships as portrayed by the cast, particularly focusing on Rachel Zoe's shocking divorce, Dorit Kemsley's finanical struggles, and Sutton Stracke's identity crisis. Veronica also critiques Kyle Richards' role as an OG housewife and Amanda's controversial step parenting views, ultimately tying these discussions back to the broader themes of single motherhood and personal growth.Takeaways The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills reflects real-life struggles of single mothers. Rachel Zoe's divorce highlights the complexities of long-term relationships. Dorit Kemsley's relationship issues showcase the challenges of a 2nd marriage.  Sutton Stracke's identity crisis emphasizes the importance of self-worth. Kyle Richards' role as an OG raises questions about relevance in reality TV. Amanda's parenting views spark controversy regarding step-parenting. The podcast emphasizes the need for financial independence among single mothers. Criitque of the notion of manifesting wealth without hard work. Reflections on the themes of single motherhood and personal growth. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _  Follow on social media:Instagram: @stoptellingmetorelax_IGTik Tok: @stoptellingmetorelax_TTLinktree: linktr.ee/stoptellingmetorelaxContact Information:Veronica WelchEmail: stoptellingmetorelax@gmail.comInstagram: @vwelch85Monetary Support for Stop Telling Me to Relax Welcome HereVenmoPayPal

Aerospace defense engineer Sandra Park is a single mother based in Texas whose life took an unexpected turn when her marriage ended just three months after the birth of her son. Left to navigate early motherhood alone, Sandra faced devastation head-on—and chose resilience.Armed with her education, an unshakable work ethic, and relentless determination, Sandra steadily climbed the STEM corporate ladder, building an impressive professional pedigree at industry leaders including Boeing, SAIC, and Lockheed Martin.In this episode, Sandra reflects candidly on the realities of raising her son while managing the demands of a high-pressure engineering career. She shares how she navigated the emotional and logistical complexities of co-parenting when her ex-husband re-entered their son’s life after years of absence, and how she rebuilt her finances as a single-income household—transforming survival mode into long-term financial security and wealth for her family.In 2021, Sandra founded Prosperous Panda, LLC, launching EngineerHER Path—a business venture that includes a podcast and financial coaching practice with a clear, purpose-driven mission: to empower women in STEM with the financial strategies, confidence, and support needed to design lives on their own terms.- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -  - - - - - - - - Get in touch with Sandra here - - - - - - - - > sandra@engineerherpath.comWebsite: engineerherpath.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/engineerherpath/ - - - - - - - - - - - Follow Stop Telling Me to Relax on Instagram: @stoptellingmetorelax_IGContact Information:Veronica Welch stoptellingmetorelax@gmail.comInstagram: @vwelch85_IG

Monica Browning is a former military spouse and single mother of 2 teenage daugthers, residing on the California Central Coast. Monica has successfully navigated the treacherous experience of divorce and rebuilding her professional persona that nourishes her personal passions and financial needs.In this episode, Monica discusses the challenges and joys of parenting and her consultation work as a parenting coach through Home & Harmony Parenting. The importance of home dynamics, emotional intelligence in children, and the role of meal times in fostering family connections.Monica shares her journey through divorce and how it has shaped her parenting style. As well as the lessons learned from navigating the complexities of parenting and self-discovery after divorce. She emphasizes the importance of creating routines, holding space for children's emotions, and the significance of gratitude in daily life. The discussion also touches on the unique challenges of dating as a single parent.- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -More on Monica Browning...Monica Browning is The Real Parent Coach and author of the best selling book 'The Connected Parent: How to Raise Children Who Feel Seen, Safe and Worthy.' She is a warm, grounded resource for families who want more ease, more connection, and a home that finally feels good again.With more than two decades of experience working with children and families—from infant and toddler development to teaching at the college level—Monica brings a rare blend of professional expertise and real-life wisdom. As a single mother who is raising two daughters just under two years apart, she understands the emotional and practical realities of parenting on every level.Monica coaches parents to move beyond the daily chaos, the power struggles, and the “going through the motions” style of parenting that so many families fall into without realizing it.Her mission is simple and powerful: to support parents in creating homes rooted in confidence, and authentic connection so families can experience the closeness they desire.Get in contact with Monica Browning ----> Home and Harmony ParentingEmail: monica@homeandharmonyparenting.com--- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -Follow on Instagram: @stoptellingmetorelaxHost Instagram: @vwelch85Contact Information:Veronica Welchstoptellingmetorelax@gmail.com

British singer Lily Allen has just released a scathing new album in the wake of her divorce from American actor David Harbour (Stranger Things, Thunderbolts). As the press and media dissect every lyric, a wave of shocking details about their marriage — including the dynamics behind closed doors — has been exposed to the public eye.In this episode, we break down the rise and fall of Lily and David’s relationship: the whirlwind romance, the marriage, and the messy divorce now making headlines. We’ll explore why their uncoupling serves as a cautionary tale for single moms, the red flags many overlook, and why certain men are drawn to dating single mothers in the first place.*Correction: The correct name of the content creator who's video inspired this episode is Melanie Hamlett, not Melanie Little. Check out Creator Melanie Hamlett here ------------> https://youtu.be/_o5oct5EtfI?si=Tw-6_l4T9oTHTQF6  Watch the Architectural Digest tour of David Harbour & Lily Allen's Brooklyn Brownstone     ------- ------- ------- ------- -------- -------- ------- FOLLOW ON SOCIAL MEDIA  Instagram: @stoptellingmetorelaxTik Tok: @stoptellingmetorelax Host Instagram: @vwelch85CONTACT INFOVeronica Welch - stoptellingmetorelax@gmail.com 

Native New Yorker Betsy Ronel, a Real Estate Broker with Coldwell Banker, shares her remarkable story of resilience, reinvention, and self-discovery. A former publicist for luxury fashion brands, Betsy left the fast-paced world of high fashion to become a stay-at-home mom after marrying and relocating to Santa Fe, New Mexico.Her life took an unexpected turn in 2011 when her husband passed away suddenly, leaving her a single mother to two young sons. In this candid and heartfelt conversation, Betsy opens up about navigating grief, the challenges of single parenting, and the mistakes and lessons along the way. She also reflects on rediscovering joy—close friendships, becoming an animal rescue advocate, appearing on a dating reality show, and embracing her inner “Swiftie Over Fifty.”Betsy now channels her creativity and empathy into her own podcast, “Heavens to Betsy,” a space where she celebrates stories of resilience, humor, and community—the connections that remind us we’re never truly alone.Listen to Heavens to Betsy on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio or anywhere podcasts are available to stream Follow Betsy on Instagram @Betsyronellifeandrealestate -------------------------------------------------------------------Follow Us on Instagram@stoptellingmetorelax_IGHost Instagram: @vwelch85_IGCONTACT INFOVeronica Welch stoptellingmetorelax@gmail.com *Business/Partnership Inquires Welcome

As my friend Molly will text me if she doesn't hear from me after a couple of weeks, "WELFARE CHECK"Yes, it has been awhile, since this podcast has dropped an episode. Who would have thought that a single Mom would get so busy that she doesn't have time pay attention to anything else besides her first priorities? In Episode 7, I check in & discuss the reasons why the podcast went dark for little bit. How a recent trip to Las Vegas saved my mental health, wellbeing and some other truthful tidbits about single parenting that I hope will help other single mothers feel better. *If you want to skip Vegas & BSB chatter. Go to 34:11 ---------------------------------------Follow Us on Instagram: @stoptellingmetorelax_IGHost Instagram: @vwelch85_IGContact info: Veronica Welch stoptellingmetorelax@gmail.com *Business/Partnership Inquires Welcome

Southern California native Carla L. is currently earning a Doctorate degree in Psychology. Carla's path to academic success and healing has been filled with many unexpected and complex obstacles. Dropping out of high school in the 10th grade & a history of substance abuse in her teens & early 20s. Carla has climbed the academic ladder of success. From earning her GED, becoming a certified Drug & Alcohol Counselor to enrolling in a Doctorate program in the fall of 2024. After leaving a 14 year marriage filled with domestic violence and coercive control. Carla is currently on a path of healing for herself and her children, grandchildren. Now in her 50s, this is the first time in Carla's life that she is able to spend time getting to know herself. Working with a therapist to learn how to lay a healthy stable foundation for her family and break cycles of generational trauma. Prioritizing quality time with her family, creating new traditions and making blissful memories to look back on.   *Apologies for the audio feedback issues with our mics. This was a challenging recording experience that I will make changes from moving forward.------------------------------------------------------------------------ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: @StopTellingMeToRelax_YouTubeFollow Us on Instagram: @stoptellingmetorelax_IGHost Instagram: @vwelch85_IGContact info: Veronica Welch stoptellingmetorelax@gmail.com*Business/Partnership Inquires Welcome

Solo episode! Episode 4 is an impromptu late night gab fest. There seems to be rush of newly single celebrity moms transitioning into single motherhood. In this episode, I share, speculate and give my thoughts, observations on these recent celebrity breakups, thoughts on their future ex-spouses as partners and what I think single motherhood will look like for each of them. Correction: Tony Gonzales played for the Kansas City Chiefs and the Atlanta Falcons. Not the San Diego (LA) Chargers.  Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: @StopTellingMeToRelax_YouTubeFollow Us on Instagram: @stoptellingmetorelax_IGHost Instagram: @vwelch85_IGContact info: Veronica Welch stoptellingmetorelax@gmail.com*Business/Partnership Inquires Welcome

Originally from Minnesota, Brittney Rabaey is a single mother living in Georgia with her 3 year old son, Jory. After spending years doing "all the right things" to capture the life she wanted. Britt decided to take matters into her own hands to fulfill her lifelong desire to become a mother. In episode 3, I talk with Britt about her journey from adolescence with her immediate family, to juggling multiple jobs while earning a college degree. To eventual burnout from 80 hour work weeks as corporate baddie in an HR Director position, making a six figure income. Her life looks much different now as single woman who chose to become a mother through fertility treatments. Britt is candid about discussing the ups and downs of choosing life as a single mother and how the community she has built on social media has carried her through recent tough times. With over 66k combined social media followers with 4 million+ views each month. Brit is a rising Momfluencer. Curating content about her real life experiences paired with her endless grit and determination, highlighting the magic in everyday moments as a toddler mom.  If you would like to connect with Britt. You can follow her at: IG:@_hey.its.britt_ TikTok: @_hey.its.britt_ Check out Brittney's Linktree Here ---------> Britt & Jory-------Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: @StopTellingMeToRelax_YouTubeFollow Us on Instagram: @stoptellingmetorelax_IGHost Instagram: @vwelch85_IGContact Info: Veronica Welch Email: stoptellingmetorelax@gmail.com*Business/Sponsorship Inquires Welcome

Part 2 of this episode, I continue my conversation with Brittany Bearden-Sousa. We have a candid discussion about the decision to adopt 2 of her 6 children from foster care. How it affected her marriage & other factors that led to the breakdown of her 10+ years marriage. Now 1 year post divorce, Brittany is navigating the emotional rollercoaster of having to live with her ex-husband while co-parenting. Figuring out the best next steps to her new reality of single motherhood.  -If you would like to connect with BrittanyTikTok: @the_sousa_sixLinktree: TheSousaFam----------------------------------------------Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: @StopTellingMeToRelax_YouTubeFollow Us on Instagram: @stoptellingmetorelax_IGHost Instagram: @vwelch85_IG - Veronica Welch*Business/Partnership Inquires Welcomestoptellingmetorelax@gmail.com

Brittany Bearden-Sousa is a recently divorced single mother of 6 children residing in California. 2 biological, 2 adopted, 1 step child and legal guardian/parent to her niece. In Part 1 of this episode Brittany and I discuss her childhood with two parents suffering from substance abuse, both in and out of recovery often. Dating, marriage to her ex-spouse who was many of her firsts, after putting up walls due to childhood trauma. Deciding to start a family, infertility and the life changing choice to become a foster/adoptive mother. Eventually welcoming two more children as permanent family members. All of which are decisions which led to her life now a single mother.  Make sure to listen to Part 2! -If you would like to connect with Brittany TikTok:  @the_sousa_six Linktree: TheSousaFam ----------------------------------------------Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: @StopTellingMeToRelax_YouTubeFollow Us on Instagram: @stoptellingmetorelax_IGHost Instagram: @vwelch85_IG - Veronica Welch*Business/Partnership Inquires Welcomestoptellingmetorelax@gmail.com

Samantha Amaya is a single mother of 4 currently residing in Virginia, USA. Married young through the LDS church after a challenging childhood. Samantha is currently navigating a divorce, cross country move and figuring out how to prioritize herself and maintain a stable mental health status. In this episode we discuss her childhood in and out of foster care, her decision to marry young in obedience to LDS principals, life as a "married single mom", helping her 4 young children cope with their parents separation. Plus the isolation & inclusion she has received from her community as a single divorced parent.  Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: @StopTellingMeToRelax_YouTube Follow Us on Instagram: @stoptellingmetorelax_IGHost Instagram: @vwelch85_IG-If you would like to connect with Samantha. You can email her at samantha@ksamaya.com To learn more about her Nutrition/Fitness coaching group, please visit https://www.skool.com/faithful-fit-aligned-3651/aboutContact info: Veronica Welch  stoptellingmetorelax@gmail.com*Business/Partnership Inquires Welcome

Podcast IG: @StopTellingMeToRelax YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/@StopTellingMeToRelax  Host IG: @vwelch85 Email: stoptellingmetorelax@gmail.com