Mother Daughter Relationship Show

When Your Daughter Pulls Away: Introducing Bridge Builders Group for Mothers Facing EstrangementIn this honest and compassionate episode, I address mothers whose adult daughters have distanced themselves or cut off contact completely, a pain that's hard to explain to anyone who hasn't lived it. I break down why daughters pull away: accumulated unaddressed pain, different perspectives on the same childhood, boundary violations, or being the first in the family to break generational patterns. The hard truth is that partners, therapists, and friends aren't turning your daughter against you, they're giving her permission to do what she's already been feeling. I walk you through what you can and can't control during estrangement, how real apologies sound (hint: "I'm sorry you feel that way" doesn't cut it), and why doing this healing work alone keeps you stuck. This episode introduces Bridge Builders, my 2026 group program for mothers willing to examine their own patterns, take accountability, and find a path forward whether reconciliation happens or not. Because if you're questioning yourself this deeply, your daughter probably isn't pulling away for no reason, and there's work you can do.With this episode you'll be able to:Understand the common reasons daughters pull away including accumulated pain, perspective differences, boundary violations, and cycle-breakingDistinguish between what you can control (your behavior, accountability, healing) and what you can't (her timeline, feelings, or decisions)Learn what real apologies sound like by acknowledging specific harm without excuses like "I did my best"Recognize why doing this healing work alone through shame and isolation keeps you stuck in defense modeDiscover the Bridge Builders group program starting in 2026 for mothers seeking understanding, accountability, and a path toward reconciliationAccept that good mothers make mistakes—what matters is taking accountability and being willing to repair the relationshipClick the link in the show notes to visit brittneymscott.com, learn more about Bridge Builders, and fill out the interest form. This group is for mothers ready to do the hard work of understanding what happened and taking real steps toward healing.Mentioned resources:Bridge Builders group program (starting 2026)Reconnection Rescue program for mother-daughter pairsInterest form available at brittneymscott.comHelp me reach more mothers and daughters by following the show & leaving a rating or review on Apple & Spotify!Keyword tags: Mother-daughter estrangement, estranged daughters, low contact, adult daughters pulling away, accountability in parenting, mother-daughter reconciliation, Bridge Builders, estrangement grief, taking responsibility, perspective differences, boundary violations, cycle breaker daughters, mother support groups, healing estrangement, reconnecting with adult daughters

Why You Don't Have to Heal Your Mother Wound Alone - Introducing The Mother Wound CircleYou've been doing the work: going to therapy, reading the books, doing the inner child exercises, but you still feel like you're healing in isolation. In this episode, I'm breaking down why community matters in mother wound healing, what changes when you're not doing it alone, and how I'm creating a specific space for exactly this kind of healing. Society tells us mothers are sacred, so admitting your mother hurt you feels taboo. The shame keeps you isolated and quiet, which stalls any real healing. You start to doubt your own reality when no one validates what you experienced. You need other people to say, "Yes, that was real, and it makes sense that it hurts." I'm sharing the five shifts that happen when you heal in community instead of alone, and I'm introducing The Mother Wound Circle, one of four groups I'm launching in 2026 specifically designed for women healing from painful relationships with their mothers. Whether you have kids or not, whether you're early in healing or years into it, whether your mother is living or has passed, whether you're estranged or in contact, this group is for women who are tired of trying to heal all of this by themselves.With this episode you'll be able to:Understand why healing mother wounds in isolation keeps you stuck and doubting your realityRecognize how societal taboos around mother-daughter pain create shame and silenceLearn the five ways healing in community differs from healing aloneDiscover how collective witnessing validates your pain in ways individual therapy sometimes can'tUnderstand the power of being needed, not just needy, in your healing journeyGet all the details about The Mother Wound Circle group launching in 2026Address common concerns about sharing your story and feeling safe in a group settingFind out how to join the interest list and get first access to group enrollmentDon't forget you can submit your questions about mother wound healing for me to answer in future episodes! Mentioned resources:The Mother Wound Circle group program (launching 2026)Interest form at brittneymscott.comAdditional group offerings coming in 2026Connect with Brittney:Instagram: @theBrittneyScottWebsite: www.brittneymscott.com

Partnership Over Pressure: Building Trust During Test Prep with Athena SavinoIn this unique episode, I interview Athena Savino, CEO of Top Marks Prep and longtime tutor, who has witnessed countless mother-daughter dynamics play out during the high stress world of standardized test preparation. Athena shares how well intentioned moms often become taskmasters—constantly asking about study hours and scores—which strains relationships and increases test anxiety rather than improving performance. She introduces the partnership model: sitting down with your daughter before prep even begins to set shared goals, co-create study plans, and establish buy in so she feels ownership over the process. We discuss how test anxiety is the number one thing hurting scores (not lack of knowledge), why validation and motivation matter more than teaching fractions, and how parents should react when scores come back, letting daughters respond first and celebrating effort over outcomes. This conversation reveals how the test prep journey offers lessons beyond the score: trust building, emotional regulation, and the powerful message that your daughter's worth isn't measured by a number. Whether facing SAT, ACT, or entrance exams, this episode shows mothers how to stay partners instead of becoming overseers.With this episode you'll be able to:Shift from taskmaster to partner by co-creating study plans and setting shared goals with your daughter before test prep beginsRecognize that test anxiety, not lack of knowledge, is the number one factor hurting scores and learn how emotional support reduces itProvide validation and motivation throughout the journey rather than micromanaging study hours or teaching contentReact appropriately when scores arrive by letting your daughter respond first and celebrating effort regardless of the numberUse car conversations and journaling to check in emotionally without creating pressure or awkward face-to-face confrontationsBuild trust by separating your daughter's identity from test performance and highlighting areas where she excels beyond academicsDon't forget you can submit your questions about mother-daughter relationships for me to answer in upcoming episodes! Connect with Athena Savino on LinkedIn or at athena@topmarksprep.com for test prep support.Connect with Brittney:Instagram: @theBrittneyScottWebsite: www.brittneymscott.comConsultation to work with Brittney

Announcing Raising Teens Differently: A New Group Coaching Program for Mothers of Teen DaughtersIn this announcement episode, I'm introducing my first group coaching offering for 2026, "Raising Teens Differently," designed specifically for mothers navigating the push-pull dynamics of raising teenage daughters. If you're watching your daughter seek independence while struggling to keep connection strong, this 8-week closed group starting in February 2026 is for you. I break down why teenagers pull away (identity formation, brain development, social media pressure, school stress) while still desperately wanting connection beneath the eye rolls and attitude. This group will teach you how to maintain trust and communication during adolescence, set healthy boundaries while respecting her growing autonomy, pick your battles wisely, find common interests that strengthen your bond, and take care of yourself so you can fully show up for her emotional needs. You'll join a community of mothers in the same stage who understand the unique pressures of raising teens today, from COVID's social impact to social media's influence, creating the kind of support that feels like a hug when you need it most.With this episode you'll be able to:Understand why your teenage daughter pulls away while still craving connection, acceptance, and unconditional love from youRecognize the developmental reasons behind teenage behavior including brain development, identity formation, and independence-seekingLearn what the Raising Teens Differently group will cover: maintaining connection, building trust, managing independence battles, and self-care strategiesDiscover the power of community healing with other moms in the same stage who understand today's unique parenting challengesGet program details: 8-week closed group starting February 2026, weekly meetings, capped enrollment for intimate supportAccess the interest form through the show notes link to secure your spot before the group fillsLearn more about Raising Teens Differently, and fill out the interest form. Don't wait, enrollment is capped to ensure every member feels heard and supported!Connect with Brittney:Instagram: @theBrittneyScottWebsite: www.brittneymscott.comConsultation to work with BrittneyFree ResourcesHelp me reach more mothers and daughters by following the show & leaving a rating or review on Apple & Spotify!Keyword tags:Raising teenagers, teenage daughters, mother-daughter relationship, teen independence, parenting teens, maintaining connection with teens, group coaching, adolescent development, teen brain development, social media impact on teens, navigating conflict with teens, building trust with teenagers, mother-daughter groups, parenting support groups, teen rebellion

From Strong to Well: Unlearning the Strong Black Woman Narrative with Dr. Cecily MooreIn this episode, Dr. Cecily Moore, a licensed therapist, researcher, and self-proclaimed "recovering strong black woman,"shares her dissertation research on unlearning the Strong Black Woman narrative. After experiencing postpartum depression and realizing her mother and grandmother couldn't give what they didn't have, she discovered this trauma-rooted narrative passes through maternal lineages, teaching daughters strength without support and creating cycles of silent suffering. Dr. Moore breaks down the unlearning journey, introduces the shift from "strong" to "well-resourced" Black woman, and explains "seed planting," sharing your healing without forcing family to change. We discuss why this narrative starts in girlhood, creating homes demanding strength everywhere with softness nowhere, and explore practical ways to have vulnerable conversations with friends while protecting your peace.With this episode you'll be able to:Understand how the Strong Black Woman narrative originated in slavery and gets passed down as generational trauma through maternal lineagesRecognize the unlearning process: catalyst moments, letting go of indoctrination, self-discovery, self-investment, and boundary settingShift from "strong black woman" to "well-resourced black woman" by investing in accessible healing like reading and community supportPractice "seed planting" with family members, sharing your healing journey without taking responsibility for their outcomes or forcing changeNavigate the hardest places to unlearn (familial/intimate relationships and work) by prioritizing self-awareness and safetyHave vulnerable conversations with friends by asking for consent, checking capacity, and being the support you want to receiveConnect with Brittney:Instagram: @theBrittneyScottWebsite: www.brittneymscott.comConsultation to work with BrittneyFree ResourcesDon't forget you can submit your questions about mother-daughter relationships for me to answer in future episodes! Connect with Dr. Cecily Moore at drcecilymooore.com for free reading resources and newsletter updates.Mentioned resources:Dr. Cecily Moore's website: drcecilymooore.com (free reading resources and newsletter)Books by Audre Lorde and other Black authors on the Strong Black Woman narrativeDr. Moore's dissertation research on Black women unlearning the Strong Black Woman narrativeHelp me reach more mothers and daughters by following the show & leaving a rating or review on Apple & Spotify!Keyword tags:Strong Black Woman narrative, generational trauma, Black maternal mental health, postpartum depression, unlearning strength narratives, well-resourced Black women, seed planting healing, mother wound in Black families, asking for help,...

How Your Mother Wound Shows Up in Your Romantic RelationshipsDo you keep attracting the same type of partner? Find yourself doing all the emotional work in relationships? Struggle with trust, intimacy, or constantly choosing people who can't meet your needs? Your mother wound might be running the show in your love life. Your relationship with your mother is your first relationship template, it's where you learned what love looks like, what connection feels like, and what you can expect from people who are supposed to care about you. Whether you're single and keep repeating painful patterns, or already in a relationship and realizing how your mother wound has shaped your dynamic, this episode will give you the awareness and tools you need to create the love you actually deserve.With this episode you'll be able to:Understand how your relationship with your mother became your first relationship templateIdentify specific ways your mother wound influences who you choose as a romantic partnerRecognize how childhood patterns create your attachment style and relationship behaviorsLearn why "chemistry" might actually be trauma recognition, not healthy attractionDiscover the seven practical steps to break painful relationship cyclesUnderstand what healthy love actually looks like and feels likeAssess whether your current relationship can heal and grow or needs to endPractice asking for what you need and creating new patterns with a willing partnerDon't forget you can submit your questions about mother wounds for me to answer in future episodes! Connect with Brittney:Instagram: @theBrittneyScottWebsite: www.brittneymscott.comConsultation to work with BrittneyFree ResourcesMentioned resources:The Mother-Daughter Relationship Show podcastMother wound healing therapy and coachingInner child work resourcesAttachment style therapy and supportHelp me reach more daughters healing their mother wounds by following the show & leaving a rating or review on Apple & Spotify!Keyword tags:mother wound, romantic relationships, dating patterns, attachment styles, mother daughter relationship, anxious attachment, avoidant attachment, partner selection, emotional unavailability, parentification, relationship patterns, childhood trauma, generational trauma, healing mother wound, healthy relationships, setting boundaries, inner child work, therapy, relationship coaching, Brittney Scott, mother daughter podcast, breaking cycles

Surviving the Holidays: Navigating Family Gatherings While Healing Your Mother WoundIn this episode, I address the knot in your stomach that appears every holiday season when you're in the middle of healing your mother wound. Family gatherings can feel like emotional minefields, filled with triggering comments, guilt trips, old dynamics that resurface, and the pressure to perform happiness while suppressing your authentic feelings. I walk you through the first decision: whether to attend at all, and give you permission to say no without explanation. If you do attend, I provide a comprehensive preparation plan including setting realistic expectations, planning responses ahead of time (and practicing them out loud), deciding on boundaries before you arrive, and always having an exit strategy. I share five specific boundary types with scripts for common holiday scenarios, from the Gray Rock Method to the Broken Record technique. This episode also covers what to do when things go sideways, how to handle family guilt and self-guilt, alternative celebration ideas like Friendsgiving or volunteer work, and the crucial importance of post gathering self-care. I close with cultural considerations, acknowledging that opting out may not work for everyone but boundaries can be adapted to honor your values while protecting your peace.With this episode you'll be able to:Decide whether attending family gatherings supports or hinders your healing journey using clear evaluation criteriaPrepare strategically for family events with realistic expectations, planned responses, pre-set boundaries, and exit strategiesUse five specific boundary types including topic redirects, the Gray Rock Method, physical removal, time limits, and the Broken Record techniqueNavigate common triggering situations with ready-to-use scripts for criticism, guilt trips, forced reconciliation, and victim playingRecognize family guilt as manipulation tactics and release self-guilt that tells you protecting your mental health is selfishCreate alternative holiday traditions like Friendsgiving, volunteering, or quiet celebrations that honor your healing journeyConnect with Brittney:Instagram: @theBrittneyScottWebsite: www.brittneymscott.comConsultation to work with BrittneyFree ResourcesDon't forget you can submit your questions about mother-daughter relationships for me to answer in future episodes!Help me reach more mothers and daughters by following the show & leaving a rating or review on Apple & Spotify!Keyword tags:Holiday boundaries, family gatherings, mother wound healing, holiday survival guide, toxic family dynamics, Gray Rock Method, holiday guilt, setting boundaries during holidays, Friendsgiving alternatives, family dysfunction, emotional protection, holiday triggers, choosing peace, breaking cycles, cultural boundaries during holidays

The Six Stages of Mother-Daughter Relationships: How to Navigate Each TransitionThe 6 Stages of Mother-Daughter Relationships: A Guide to Healing and Growth BlogIn this episode, I break down the six stages that every mother-daughter relationship goes through and why understanding these stages is essential for maintaining connection and avoiding breakdown. From birth through adolescence, young adulthood, marriage and motherhood, midlife, and finally caring for an aging mother, each stage requires mothers to show up differently and daughters to have different needs met. I introduce the powerful rubber band metaphor for the teenage years, where mothers must remain stationary and present while allowing their daughters to stretch toward independence, knowing the rubber band will snap them back when they need support. The young adult stage emerges as the most common time for relationship breakdowns, when mothers struggle to shift from rule-setter to collaborative advisor walking alongside their daughters. This episode explores how boundaries must be redrawn in each stage, why conflict during adolescence isn't inherently bad, and includes a powerful journaling prompt to help you identify which stage your mother wound occurred in so you can target your healing work effectively.With this episode you'll be able to:Understand the six distinct stages of mother-daughter relationships and what each one requires for successUse the rubber band metaphor to navigate your daughter's teenage years without creating emotional distance or losing trustRecognize when it's time to shift from guiding parent to collaborative advisor in your daughter's young adult lifeIdentify which stage your mother-daughter relationship breakdown occurred and what you needed that you didn't receiveSee how forcing a relationship to stay the same across stages damages connection and prevents deeper friendship from formingLearn why the young adult stage is often when daughters finally recognize their relationship isn't healthy or safeConnect with Brittney:Instagram: @theBrittneyScottWebsite: www.brittneymscott.comConsultation to work with BrittneyFree ResourcesDon't forget you can submit your questions about mother-daughter relationships for me to answer in future episodes! The link is in the show notes.Help me reach more mothers and daughters by following the show & leaving a rating or review on Apple & Spotify!Keyword tags:Mother-daughter stages, relationship evolution, teenage daughters, rubber band metaphor, parenting teenagers, young adult relationships, mother-daughter boundaries, life transitions, parenting stages, adolescent development, collaborative parenting, inner child healing, relationship breakdown, generational patterns, mother-daughter friendship

Accepting the Mother You Got: The Hardest Part of HealingIn this episode, I walk you through one of the most difficult yet essential steps in healing a mother wound, accepting the mother you actually received instead of continuing to long for the mother you wanted. We all carry an image of what a mother should be, how she should show up, and the ways she should love us. When our actual mothers fall short of these expectations, the gap between what we wanted and what we got creates a wound that follows us into adulthood. I guide you through a journaling exercise that helps you process this disappointment: writing out your expectations of motherhood, documenting the reality of the mother you received, and speaking to your inner child who still desperately wants what she didn't get. This episode explores why children struggle to see their parents as flawed and instead blame themselves, how that little girl inside you is still healing alongside adult you, and why acceptance doesn't mean making excuses for her behavior, it means seeing her clearly so you can finally move forward with your own life.With this episode you'll be able to:Understand why accepting the mother you received is the foundation of healing, not making excuses for her behaviorComplete a three-part journaling exercise to process the gap between your expectations and realityRecognize that your inner child is still seeking the mother she wanted and needs your compassion to healLearn why children blame themselves instead of seeing their parents as flawed and how this pattern continues into adulthoodSee your mother as a whole person with limitations rather than keeping her on a pedestal you have to constantly defend or attackDiscover how acceptance makes boundary-setting easier and frees you to live your life without waiting for her to changeDon't forget you can submit your questions for me to answer in future episodes!Connect with Brittney:Instagram: @theBrittneyScottWebsite: www.brittneymscott.comConsultation to work with BrittneyFree ResourcesHelp me reach more mothers and daughters by following the show & leaving a rating or review on Apple & Spotify!Keyword tags:Mother wound healing, accepting your mother, inner child work, mother-daughter expectations, healing disappointment, journaling prompts, emotional healing, childhood wounds, mother-daughter relationship, letting go of expectations, seeing parents clearly, boundary setting, generational healing, self-blame patterns, mother wound acceptance

Cultural Context Matters: Setting Boundaries Without Losing Your CommunityIn this episode, I respond to a social media post about how North American therapists often push boundary-setting without understanding the cultural consequences for children of immigrants and those from collectivist cultures. While setting boundaries is crucial for healthy relationships, the Western approach of individualism doesn't always translate to cultures where family connection and community are central to survival and identity. I break down the critical difference between setting boundaries and estrangement, offering practical examples of how you can protect your mental health and get your needs met without completely cutting off your family or losing your entire support system. From getting a hotel during the holidays to setting time limits on phone calls, I share flexible boundary strategies that honor both your wellbeing and your cultural values. This episode is essential listening for anyone navigating the tension between therapeutic advice and cultural expectations, and for therapists who want to provide more culturally competent care.With this episode you'll be able to:Understand the difference between individualistic and collectivist cultures and how this impacts boundary-setting approachesRecognize that boundaries exist on a spectrum, from small limits to estrangement, and you don't have to jump to the extremeLearn practical boundary examples that keep you safe while maintaining family connections (hotel stays during visits, time limits on calls, etc.)Reframe boundaries as "what needs to be in place for me to say yes" rather than walls that keep people outDiscover the importance of working with culturally competent therapists who understand your specific cultural contextSee how you can create healthier patterns for the next generation even if you can't change your current family dynamicsDon't forget you can submit your questions about mother-daughter relationships for me to answer in upcoming episodes! Connect with Brittney:Instagram: @theBrittneyScottWebsite: www.brittneymscott.comConsultation to work with BrittneyFree ResourcesHelp me reach more mothers and daughters by following the show & leaving a rating or review on Apple & Spotify!Keyword tags:Boundaries, cultural competency, immigrant families, collectivist culture, individualistic culture, estrangement alternatives, healthy boundaries, mother-daughter boundaries, cultural context in therapy, setting limits, family dynamics, generational healing, culturally sensitive therapy, boundary spectrum, holiday boundaries

Breaking Generational Patterns Through Storytelling - An Interview with Author K. J. RitchieIn this episode, I sit down with first-time author K. J. Richie to discuss her compelling novel "The Lies That Bind: Mothers and Daughters." Katja shares her journey of writing a book that follows three generations of women—Joyce, Vivian, and Rosemary—as they navigate the complex dynamics of mother wounds, control, and the desperate desire to break free from generational patterns. What started as a cathartic exercise turned into a beautifully written story that gives compassion and context to harmful maternal behaviors while showing the possibility of healing. Katja opens up about her own experience as a cycle breaker, why she chose not to become a traditional mother, and how writing this book helped her find peace with her own mother wound. This conversation explores why understanding the "why" behind behaviors doesn't excuse them but can lead to profound healing, and how female friendships become the lifeline for daughters breaking free from toxic family patterns.With this episode you'll be able to:Understand how generational patterns are passed down through mother-daughter relationships and why each generation may break some cycles but not allRecognize that motherhood doesn't happen in a vacuum—fathers and other family members play silent but significant roles in perpetuating or stopping dysfunctionSee how writing or creative expression can be a powerful tool for healing mother wounds and developing empathy for the women who came before youLearn why healing relational wounds cannot be done alone—it requires vulnerable connections with supportive friends and partnersDiscover the freedom in accepting the relationship you have with your mother rather than continuing to fight for what it should beRecognize that estrangement, while painful, can bring peace and that it's possible to have compassion for your mother without maintaining contactDon't forget you can submit your questions about mother-daughter relationships for me to answer in upcoming episodes! And if you read "The Lies That Bind," reach out to K. J. Ritchie through her website, she wants to hear from you.Mentioned resources:"The Lies That Bind: Mothers and Daughters" by K. J. Ritchie"Codependent No More" by Melody BeattieK. J. Ritchie's website (contact form available)Connect with Brittney:Instagram: @theBrittneyScottWebsite: www.brittneymscott.comConsultation to work with Brittney

When Your Siblings Act Like You're Making Up Your Mother WoundAre you trying to heal from your mother wound while your siblings defend your mom and act like you're being dramatic? In this episode, I explore why siblings can grow up in the same house with the same mother yet have completely different experiences and relationships with her. From birth order and gender dynamics to family roles like scapegoat versus golden child, I break down six reasons siblings often have opposing perspectives on their mother. I spend extra time on the unique burden eldest daughters carry - being parentified, absorbing family dysfunction, and protecting younger siblings who now don't understand why you're "making such a big deal" about mom. You'll learn practical strategies for maintaining sibling relationships while protecting yourself from invalidation, plus guidance for siblings who want to support their sister's healing journey even if they don't share her experience.With this episode you'll be able to:Understand why siblings can have drastically different relationships with the same motherRecognize the unique burden eldest daughters carry as "guinea pigs" and family caretakersStop seeking validation from siblings who aren't ready or able to provide itSet boundaries around discussing your mother with invalidating siblingsAccept that both experiences can be true simultaneously without canceling each other outBuild sibling relationships on shared interests rather than painful childhood processingGrieve the supportive sibling relationship you wanted but may never haveDon't forget that your sibling's denial or different experience doesn't make your pain less real, you don't need their validation for your healing to be legitimate!Connect with Brittney:Instagram: @theBrittneyScottWebsite: www.brittneymscott.comConsultation to work with BrittneyFree ResourcesMentioned resources:Therapy support for processing sibling invalidationSupport groups for people with mother woundsOnline communities for eldest daughters and scapegoat childrenStrategies for managing family gatherings with conflicting perspectivesHelp me reach more mothers and daughters by following the show & leaving a rating or review on Apple & Spotify!Keyword tags:sibling invalidation, mother wound, eldest daughter syndrome, scapegoat child, golden child, birth order, family dynamics, sibling relationships, Brittney Scott, parentification, different experiences, family roles, validation

When Your Mom Needs You to Emotionally Take Care of HerAre you constantly managing your mother's emotions, walking on eggshells to keep her stable, or feeling guilty for having your own life? In this episode, I examine the critical difference between healthy mutual support and unhealthy emotional dependence in mother-daughter relationships. From emotional parentification to inappropriate oversharing, I break down seven specific ways mothers inappropriately pull emotional support from their daughters - and how these patterns affect you well into adulthood. You'll learn to recognize signs like being called multiple times daily, feeling responsible for her happiness, or struggling with boundaries in all your relationships because you were trained that others' emotions are your responsibility. I provide concrete examples and practical strategies for setting boundaries without guilt, plus guidance for mothers who recognize these patterns in themselves.With this episode you'll be able to:Distinguish between healthy reciprocal support and unhealthy emotional dependenceRecognize seven specific patterns of inappropriate emotional reliance from mothersUnderstand why you might struggle with boundaries in all relationships after being parentifiedSet starter boundaries like "I can talk for 20 minutes, then I need to go"Redirect your mom to appropriate support without feeling guiltyWork through the belief that your worth comes from caretaking othersBreak generational cycles of emotional parentificationDon't forget that setting boundaries doesn't make you a bad daughter - it makes you a healthier daughter trying to build a relationship that works for both of you!Connect with Brittney:Instagram: @theBrittneyScottWebsite: www.brittneymscott.comConsultation to work with BrittneyFree ResourcesMentioned resources:Therapy support for processing guilt around boundary-settingCoaching for mothers recognizing these patterns in themselvesInner child healing work for daughters who were parentifiedSupport groups and friendship development for mothersHelp me reach more mothers and daughters by following the show & leaving a rating or review on Apple & Spotify!Keyword tags:emotional parentification, mother daughter boundaries, inappropriate emotional support, caretaker role, enmeshment, emotional dependence, walking on eggshells, Brittney Scott, parentification, unhealthy dynamics, boundary setting, generational patterns

When Your Mom Says All the Right Things But Does the OppositeDoes your mom say "I want us to be close" but then criticizes every decision you make? Or agree to therapy but cancel at the last minute? In this episode, I explore the frustrating pattern of mothers who say all the right things about wanting to repair relationships, but whose actions tell a completely different story. From understanding why this disconnect happens (fear of vulnerability, lack of self-awareness, defensiveness) to recognizing specific red flags, I help you navigate the exhausting hope-and-disappointment cycle. You'll learn practical strategies for focusing on actions over words, setting measurable expectations, and protecting yourself emotionally while deciding how much energy to invest in someone whose intentions don't match their follow-through. I also answer a listener's question about a mother who keeps promising therapy but never commits to scheduling it.With this episode you'll be able to:Recognize the difference between good intentions and actual behavioral changeIdentify specific red flags when words don't match actions in mother relationships Break free from the exhausting hope-and-disappointment cycleSet specific, measurable expectations instead of accepting vague promisesCreate appropriate consequences for broken commitments without being punitiveProtect yourself emotionally while still remaining open to genuine changeKnow when to keep trying versus when to take a step back for your own wellbeingDon't forget that your worth is never tied to her behaviors, and you can heal and build fulfilling relationships even if your mom never becomes the person her words suggest she wants to be.Mentioned resources:Individual therapy options for personal healingStrategies for setting measurable behavioral expectationsGuidance on protecting emotional energy during relationship repair attemptsSupport for navigating the grief process of accepting limitationsHelp me reach more mothers and daughters by following the show & leaving a rating or review on Apple & Spotify!Keyword tags:words vs actions, mother daughter relationships, false promises, hope and disappointment, mother wounds, accountability, behavioral change, emotional protection, Brittney Scott, relationship patterns, therapy resistance, broken commitments

Therapy vs. Coaching - Which One Do You and Your Mom Need?In this Q&A episode, I tackle a listener's question about when to choose family therapy versus coaching for mother-daughter relationships. Many people feel confused about the difference between these approaches, and knowing which path to take can save you time, money, and frustration. I break down the fundamental difference: therapy looks backward to process trauma and understand triggers, while coaching looks forward to build new skills and create better relationships. I explain why family therapy requires both mother and daughter to be emotionally available for deep vulnerability, and how my Reconnection Rescue program takes a different approach by acknowledging hurt without camping out in it. You'll learn four key questions to help you decide which path is right for your situation, plus why finding someone you genuinely connect with matters more than their credentials alone.With this episode you'll be able to:Understand the core difference between therapy (backward-looking) and coaching (forward-looking)Assess whether your mother is emotionally available for deep therapeutic workRecognize when significant trauma requires individual therapy firstLearn why relationship healing happens best inside relationships with trusted professionalsEvaluate your ultimate goal: processing past hurt versus building future connectionUnderstand why some mothers shut down in therapy but thrive in coaching environmentsNavigate the decision between individual healing and joint relationship workDon't forget that you can schedule a free consultation call through my website if you want to explore whether therapy or coaching might be right for your specific situation.Connect with Brittney:Instagram: @theBrittneyScottWebsite: www.brittneymscott.comConsultation to work with BrittneyFree ResourcesMentioned resources:Reconnection Rescue coaching program (13 weeks, 90-minute sessions)Free consultation calls to discuss your specific needsIndividual therapy recommendations for significant traumaQuestion submission form for future podcast episodesHelp me reach more mothers and daughters by following the show & leaving a rating or review on Apple & Spotify!Keyword tags:therapy vs coaching, family therapy, mother daughter therapy, Reconnection Rescue, relationship coaching, trauma processing, mother wounds, healing approaches, Brittney Scott, emotional availability, therapeutic containers, mother daughter healing

Navigating the Teenage Years - When Your Daughter Pushes You Away Is your teenage daughter pushing you away, and you're wondering where that close connection went? In this episode for moms of teenage daughters, I explore one of the most challenging seasons of the mother-daughter relationship. From understanding what's really happening beneath all that eye-rolling and door slamming to practical strategies for staying connected during this crucial developmental stage, this episode offers hope and guidance for maintaining your bond while respecting her growing need for independence. I share why her brain isn't fully developed until her mid-twenties, how social media and school pressures impact her behavior, and most importantly, that she still wants connection even when she doesn't act like it. You'll learn my "potted plant" and "rubber band" techniques for staying present without overwhelming her, plus nine actionable strategies for rebuilding connection during these turbulent years.With this episode you'll be able to:Understand what's developmentally happening in your teenager's brain and worldRecognize that pushing away is often a test of unconditional love, not rejectionPractice the "potted plant" technique to stay informed about her life without interruptingUse the "rubber band" method to remain steady while she stretches for independenceLearn why being a listener first and responder second builds stronger communicationImplement realistic expectations that meet her where she is, not where you wish she wereCreate low-pressure connection opportunities that feel natural to teenagersDon't forget to check out Episode 6 for more about the six stages of mother-daughter relationships, and remember - this phase is temporary but the trust you build now lasts forever!Connect with Brittney:Instagram: @theBrittneyScottWebsite: www.brittneymscott.comConsultation to work with BrittneyFree ResourcesMentioned resources:Episode 6: The Six Stages of Mother-Daughter RelationshipsIndividual coaching for mothers navigating teenage yearsSupport for healing your own mother wounds during this challenging seasonResources on teenage brain development and emotional regulationHelp me reach more mothers and daughters by following the show & leaving a rating or review on Apple & Spotify!Keyword tags:teenage daughters, mother daughter relationship, teenage years, adolescence, parenting teenagers, independence, identity formation, communication with teens, Brittney Scott, teenage behavior, mother daughter connection, parenting strategies, teenage development

Live Coaching Session - Setting Boundaries with an Emotionally Unavailable MotherIn this special episode, you get to witness a real coaching session as I work with Shannon, a podcast listener who reached out for help with boundary setting. Shannon shares her journey from parenting her emotionally unavailable mother to slowly creating distance and protection for herself and her child. Through our session, you'll hear Shannon work through her triggers around her mother's lack of parenting (both in Shannon's childhood and now with her niece and nephew), her struggle with surface-level conversations feeling "fake," and her need to protect her sacred spaces from her mother's intrusion. We explore the difference between rigid boundaries and fluid ones, why letters often don't work in mother-daughter relationships, and how to reframe boundary-setting from "what do I need to say no to" to "what needs to be in place for me to say yes." Listen to Shannon's transformation as she realizes she's not being mean, she's protecting her safety.Connect with Brittney:Instagram: @theBrittneyScottWebsite: www.brittneymscott.comConsultation to work with BrittneyWith this episode you'll be able to:Understand how to identify what you need versus trying to control others' behaviorLearn the difference between "fake" conversations and protective surface-level interactionsPractice creating boundaries that meet your safety needs rather than rigid rulesRecognize that protecting your home and sacred spaces is a valid boundarySee how triggers from childhood show up in adult relationships with mothersLearn why "I need 48 hours to respond" can be a legitimate communication boundaryUnderstand that boundaries can be fluid and change as your needs evolveDon't forget to download the free Boundaries Guide mentioned at the beginning of the episode, and fill out the question form if you'd like your own situation addressed in a future episode!Mentioned resources:Free Boundaries Guide downloadQuestion submission form for future episodesIndividual coaching servicesHelp me reach more mothers and daughters by following the show & leaving a rating or review on Apple & Spotify!Keyword tags:live coaching session, boundary setting, emotionally unavailable mother, surface level conversations, protecting sacred spaces, mother daughter boundaries, triggers, safety needs, Brittney Scott, fluid boundaries, communication boundaries, parenting recovery

Unpopular Opinions About Mother Wounds and HealingLet's get a little spicy? In this candid end-of-month episode, I share my most controversial opinions about the mother-daughter healing space. From pushing back on the idea that you don't need to know your mother's story to heal, to challenging the overuse of "narcissistic mom" when people really mean "abusive mom," I'm not holding back. I tackle why the phrase "you only get one mom" infuriates me (spoiler: it puts all the burden on daughters to accept harmful behavior), explain why most people who claim to have narcissistic mothers probably don't, and break down why "forgiveness is for you, not them" often feels dismissive to people who aren't ready. This episode might ruffle some feathers, but these are conversations we need to have about the difference between healing approaches that actually work versus popular phrases that sound good but don't serve people on their healing journey.With this episode you'll be able to:Understand why knowing your mother's full story is essential for breaking generational cyclesRecognize the difference between abusive behavior and actual narcissistic personality disorderChallenge the harmful "you only get one mom" narrative that excuses maternal dysfunctionSee why separating your mother from her mothering role helps you understand patternsQuestion whether popular healing phrases are actually helpful or dismissiveLearn why your brain needs specific information about patterns to change themUnderstand that healing and forgiveness are separate processesDon't forget that these are just my opinions based on years of working with mothers and daughters - you get to decide what resonates with your own healing journey!Connect with Brittney:Instagram: @theBrittneyScottWebsite: www.brittneymscott.comFree Call: Consultation to work with BrittneyFree ResourcesHelp me reach more mothers and daughters by following the show & leaving a rating or review on Apple & Spotify!Keyword tags:unpopular opinions, mother wound healing, narcissistic abuse, forgiveness, generational patterns, abusive mothers, healing journey, Brittney Scott, mother daughter relationships, controversial takes, healing myths, trauma recovery, family cycles

What Does "Doing the Work" Actually Mean?You've heard the phrase everywhere: "You have to do the work." But what does that actually mean? In this episode, I break down what "doing the work" looks like specifically when working with me as your therapist and coach. From understanding the underlying memories and triggers causing painful patterns today to healing mother wounds and breaking generational cycles, I walk you through exactly what healing entails. I explain my two main ways of working: individual one-on-one sessions for personal healing and my Reconnection Rescue program for mother-daughter pairs working together. You'll learn why the first half of relationship healing is often the most difficult (because we're talking about breakdown before we can rebuild), how I help clients move from reactive parenting to intentional choices, and why saying "I'll just do the opposite of my mom" isn't enough for your brain to actually change patterns.With this episode you'll be able to:Understand what "doing the work" means in terms of healing and personal growthLearn about the Reconnection Rescue program structure and why the first 6 sessions are hardestDiscover how individual coaching addresses mother wounds, parenting triggers, and traumaUnderstand why "doing the opposite" of your mother isn't an effective healing strategyLearn how to make intentional parenting choices rather than reactive onesSee why healing work requires specificity and can't rely on vague intentionsRecognize that different therapists and coaches will approach "the work" differentlyDon't forget to download the free Boundaries Guide or join the 7-day Heal Your Inner Child email challenge mentioned at the end - both are completely free ways to start doing the work on your own!Connect with Brittney:Instagram: @theBrittneyScottWebsite: www.brittneymscott.comConsultation to work with BrittneyFree ResourcesMentioned resources:Reconnection Rescue program for mother-daughter pairsIndividual one-on-one coaching sessionsFree Boundaries Guide download7-day Heal Your Inner Child email challengeVarious session lengths from 3 months to ongoing supportHelp me reach more mothers and daughters by following the show & leaving a rating or review on Apple & Spotify!Keyword tags:doing the work, mother wound healing, Reconnection Rescue, individual therapy, mother daughter coaching, generational patterns, intentional parenting, healing process, Brittney Scott, trauma recovery, communication patterns, boundary setting, inner child work

Physical Signs of Mother Wound Trauma and How to Heal It - How trauma lives in your bodyYour body remembers everything: every dismissal, every criticism, every moment when you needed comfort but didn't receive it. In this episode, I explore how childhood trauma and mother wounds manifest physically in your adult body. From chronic headaches and digestive issues to autoimmune conditions and sleep disturbances, I explain how your nervous system learned to stay on high alert and why that tightness in your chest or knot in your stomach isn't "all in your head." You'll discover how chronic stress in childhood rewires your body around trauma, making it incredibly efficient at spotting danger but forgetting how to relax. Most importantly, I share practical tools for helping your nervous system learn it's safe now, including breathing techniques that target your diaphragm, grounding methods beyond the standard 5-4-3-2-1, and ways to create environments that signal safety to your body.With this episode you'll be able to:Recognize how childhood trauma shows up physically in your adult bodyUnderstand why your nervous system stays stuck in high alert modeIdentify your body's early warning signals before your brain catches upPractice deep diaphragm breathing instead of shallow chest breathingUse natural self-soothing mechanisms like drinking from straws or gentle pressure pointsCreate calming environments that help your nervous system feel safeDevelop a new relationship with your body based on trust and collaboration instead of criticismConnect with Brittney:Instagram: @theBrittneyScottWebsite: www.brittneymscott.comConsultation to work with BrittneyFree Resources!Don't forget to journal about when your body feels safe versus when it goes into stress mode - this information is gold for understanding your triggers and healing patterns!Mentioned resources:Body awareness journaling techniquesProgressive muscle relaxation practicesTrauma-informed massage therapyProfessional support for trauma recoveryIndividual coaching for understanding mother wound body responsesHelp me reach more mothers and daughters by following the show & leaving a rating or review on Apple & Spotify!Keyword tags:trauma in the body, mother wound healing, nervous system regulation, body awareness, chronic stress, trauma recovery, physical symptoms, hypervigilance, body signals, Brittney Scott, somatic healing, nervous system healing, childhood trauma, stress response, body wisdom