The Mom Existence

Let’s talk about the thing so many of us aren’t talking about: intimacy after motherhood. This week, I’m joined by somatic sexologist Serena Haines for an honest, eye-opening conversation about what happens to our bodies, our relationships, and our sense of self when we become moms. We go deep on: – What intimacy actually looks like (hint: it’s not just about sex) – How to reconnect with your partner when you’re touched-out and drowning in motherhood – Why so many women feel shut down sexually & how to gently wake that part of you back up – Serena’s game-changing “5-minute rule” and the power of a 6-second kiss (hello, oxytocin!) We also explore the emotional load of motherhood, how it impacts identity and desire, and what it really means to feel at home in your body again. Whether you’re feeling disconnected, curious, or just craving more real talk—this one’s for you. Because reclaiming intimacy is not just about sex—it’s about coming home to you. PS. Don’t forget, you are doing amazing <3   Follow: @serena_haines Learn more: https://www.serenahaines.com/ Visit: themomexistence.com:

Pediatric dietitian and founder of My Little Eaters, Edwena Kennedy joins me to explore the evolving journey of motherhood. We discuss her personal experience as a mom alongside her professional expertise in feeding children—from the early days of introducing solids and baby-led feeding to managing picky eating well into the toddler years and beyond. Edwena offers compassionate, practical advice on creating positive mealtime experiences, understanding the difference between gagging and choking, and building confidence around feeding. We also dive into the shifts in parenting styles, the challenges of raising teenagers, and the growing impact of social media on modern parenting expectations.   LEARN MORE:  themomexistence.com https://mylittleeater.com/ FOLLOW: @themomexistence @mylittleeater 

In this conversation, I chat with Emily Bishop about her powerful career pivot—from a decade-long career in biomedical engineering to becoming a transformational coach for ambitious moms. We explore the multifaceted journey of motherhood, the challenges of returning to work, and the importance of self-discovery and personal growth. Emily shares her experiences as a mother of two boys, how she found purpose beyond the corporate world, and the impact of social media on modern motherhood. We also dive into the concept of human design and how it can help individuals better understand their unique paths. This conversation emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with oneself, navigating the complexities of identity, and finding fulfillment beyond traditional roles. Motherhood is a transformative experience that can be overwhelming. Returning to work after maternity leave can be challenging and isolating. Social media often portrays an unrealistic image of motherhood. Self-discovery is crucial for finding purpose and fulfillment. Human design can provide insights into personal strengths and challenges. Coaching can help moms navigate their unique journeys and find clarity. Common blocks for high-achieving moms include fear of change and financial concerns. Creating space for introspection is essential for personal growth. Gratitude practices can shift focus from what is lacking to what is present. Surrounding oneself with supportive communities can inspire change.   LEARN MORE:  themomexistence.com www.emilylynnbishop.com  FOLLOW: @themomexistence @emilylynnbishop 

In this episode, I’m sharing the real, raw, and surprisingly beautiful story of how I became a mom. From the final stretch of pregnancy to meeting my son for the first time, I walk you through what it was like becoming a first-time mom at 35. I talk about everything from IVF, being labeled "geriatric," and that lovely thing called Group B Strep, to what it actually feels like when your water breaks, the induction process, and how a doula helped me stay grounded through it all. This is the kind of birth story I wish I’d heard before giving birth—honest but encouraging. Because birth doesn’t have to be terrifying. You're doing amazing, and you deserve to hear stories that remind you of that. LEARN MORE: themomexistence.com   FOLLOW: @themomexistence

In this episode of the Mom Existence podcast, Ashley and her husband Jeff share their candid experiences of becoming parents. They discuss the challenges and unexpected realities of parenthood, the mental load often carried by mothers, and the importance of structure and routine in managing daily life with children. The couple reflects on their parenting styles, the impact of age on their perspectives, and the joys and struggles of raising a child. Their conversation is filled with humor, honesty, and relatable insights for anyone navigating the journey of parenthood. In this engaging conversation, Ashley and Jeff delve into the complexities of parenthood, reflecting on their experiences with age, communication challenges, and the relentless nature of raising children. They share humorous anecdotes from the newborn days, discuss the evolving dynamics as their child grows into a toddler, and express their concerns about the impact of parenting on their child's emotional well-being. The conversation also touches on the value of the podcast as a platform for sharing insights and experiences in parenting. And remember, you are doing amazing! LEARN MORE:  themomexistence.com FOLLOW: @themomexistence

Kayla Davis—known as @kdavis_fitness on Instagram—is a Halifax-based kinesiologist, personal trainer, and mother of three who inspires her audience by balancing fitness and motherhood. With over 28,000 followers, she shares workouts, family life, and motivational content that resonates with busy moms and fitness enthusiasts alike. In this conversation, we discuss the journey of motherhood, the challenges of building an online presence, and the importance of staying true to oneself while navigating the complexities of parenting. Kayla shares her experiences with fitness, managing daily routines, and the identity shifts that come with motherhood. They also touch on the exhaustion that comes with parenting and the realities of raising multiple children, emphasizing the need for connection and support among mothers. In this conversation, Kayla and Ashley discuss the importance of community among mothers, the challenges of prioritizing health and fitness, the unrealistic portrayals of motherhood on social media, the pressures of parenting expectations, and the balance of children's activities. They share personal experiences and insights on navigating motherhood, emphasizing the need for support and understanding in the journey. SHOP:  https://shopkzip.com FOLLOW: @kdavis_fitness

Today on The Mom Existence, we're joined by the incredibly compassionate and knowledgeable Lauren Mackintosh—a fierce advocate for maternal mental health and a guiding light for women navigating pregnancy and postpartum. Lauren helps us unpack what so many moms experience but don’t always talk about like delayed postpartum depression and how it differs from the early baby blues. We dive into the emotional rollercoaster that can come with everyday struggles, mom guilt, and when things just don’t go according to plan. She’s made it her mission to support women through the messy, beautiful, overwhelming ride of motherhood—and today, she’s breaking down the truth behind anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and the “prepare for the worst” mindset so many of us quietly carry. Because as Lauren reminds us—two things can be true. You can be so in love with your baby and feel completely lost. You can be grateful and grieving the version of motherhood you imagined. This conversation is honest, validating, and needed. Let’s get into it. And remember, you’re doing amazing <3 LEARN MORE:  https://brydgestherapy.com/ FOLLOW: @tb_counsellingtherapy

I’m getting real and opening up about my own experience with overwhelm and anxiety. Because let’s be honest, parenthood can flip your world upside down fast, and it’s not always easy to keep up. Sometimes, we need support, and for me, that means getting professional help. In this episode, we’re diving into how disconnected and siloed the info is for new moms, how raising kids today is nothing like it was 30–40 years ago, and why setting boundaries with your partner before baby arrives is a game-changer. You’ll thank me later. Let’s normalize the chaos of early motherhood and remember, you deserve to be treated like the absolute queen you are. Don’t forget, you are doing amazing <3  Follow: @themomexistence  Visit: themomexistence.com:  FREE Mental health support

If you know, you know — MM&L was the YouTube duo that got us through our 20s with beauty tips, dry shampoo recs, and big bouncy curls. And yes, that Laura is here! In this episode, I sit down with the always-honest Laura Armstrong — beauty guru, mom, and co-founder of Beauty Destination — to talk about the journey from viral content creator to motherhood, IVF, and surrogacy. We go deep on staying ambitious when life pulls you in every direction, what it’s like to rediscover your identity as a mom, and why she’s never stopped being real online. We talk: The MM&L origin story with Bachelor star & bestie Michelle Money Meeting her now-husband and the early days of building a family The emotional rollercoaster of IVF and the decision to pursue surrogacy Mom guilt, ambition, and redefining success at every stage Why she started a podcast of her own — and what she’s not holding back on now This one’s full of nostalgia, truth bombs, and a whole lot of heart. Don’t forget, you are doing amazing <3  Follow: @lovebylaura Visit: https://www.beautydestination.com/

In this special Mother’s Day episode, we’re teaming up with Halifax Shopping Centre and sitting down with our favourite mother-daughter duo—Vicky Mina and Amanda Nahas. We’re talking all things motherhood, how it’s shaped them both at different stages of life, and of course, their take on effortless style. From go-to shops at HSC to personal stories and laughs, this episode is full of heart, fashion inspo, and real mom moments. Don’t miss it!

This week, I’m flying solo and covering a lot. Inspired by Oprah’s chat with Jonathan Haidt, I reflect on the early days of social media (anyone remember ICQ and MSN Messenger?) and how different the digital world feels now—especially for our kids. I also touch on mental health, anxiety, toddler emotions (a rollercoaster), and why managing it all can feel like a full-time job. Plus, a peek into my skincare routine, thoughts on the Ruby Franke documentary, and microneedling updates. Grateful for this community—thanks for being here. If you can, please rate this episode and leave a review! It all matters. Don’t forget, you are doing amazing <3  Follow: themomexistence@gmail.com Visit: themomexistence.com

Guest: Lorena Seidel Lorena T. Seidel is a parent educator, Montessori teacher, and mother of three who’s been in the trenches—and she’s here to help us climb out with more confidence and less guilt. In this episode, we unpack Lorena’s powerful approach to raising emotionally healthy, well-adjusted kids using mindset-based strategies that actually work in everyday chaos. We dive into the real stuff: hitting, meltdowns, power struggles, and those moments when you’re two seconds from yelling in the kitchen. Lorena shares how behavior is communication, how our mindset as parents is often the key to breaking cycles, and how to handle things like screen time, sibling fights, and even the in-laws who ignore your parenting boundaries. We talk about what it means to be kind and firm, not just in theory, but with examples you can use today. Lorena helps us understand why growth mindset matters, how to coach our kids through hard moments, and how we can stop trying to control behavior and start guiding it. Don’t forget, you are doing amazing <3  If you can, please rate this episode and leave a review! It all matters. Follow: https://www.instagram.com/lorena_seidel/ Learn More: https://www.joyfulfamilymethod.com

✨Guest: Gervase Kolmos What happens when we do the work? Is it easier to set boundaries, stay grounded, or navigate our triggers, especially in motherhood? In this episode, I’m joined by Gervase Kolmos, a certified life coach, speaker, podcaster and boundary-setting queen who is changing the narrative around what it means to be a mother on her own terms. Gervase brings humor, realness, and a soul-deep approach to healing the inner voice that so many of us live with, especially the one that says, "I should already know how to do this." We go deep on: ✨ Why setting boundaries isn’t always easy, and what holds us back ✨ How to stand by your boundaries even when they feel uncomfortable ✨ The shame mothers carry about being present and the guilt that creeps in when we’re not ✨ Triggers: how they show up with our kids, our partners, and the unexpected places they ✨ The voice in our heads, how our upbringing shaped it, and how to begin healing it ✨ What “doing the work” really looks like, and why it’s worth it We also talk about that feeling when you’re in a good vibe and something throws you off and suddenly you’re spiraling (yep, been there). Gervase shares what it means to show up mind, body, and soul… and how to come back to yourself when motherhood, relationships, and life try to pull you in a million directions. This one’s for the moms trying to be everything, do everything, and still be present. It’s not easy, but you’re not alone. Don’t forget, you are doing amazing <3  If you can, please rate this episode and leave a review! It all matters.   Follow: @gervasekolmos Learn More: https://www.gervasekolmos.com/  Product Mentions: Sephora: Haus Lab by Lady Gaga Concealer  Sephora: Summer Fridays Sheer Tint Viver: Viver Sunscreen

This podcast was born from Alex Cooper then to a random social media video that made me breakdown and spiral for the day. This week I’m getting personal — talking about the mental blocks I’ve faced using my voice, the weight of traditional household roles, and why the idea that “dads work harder” still lingers. I open up about growing up in a home where roles were defined, how that shaped me, and what I want to shift for my son. I’m also digging into the exposure of young girls and moms online, what “equal partners” really means, and why this podcast is helping me find my voice not just for me, but for the future of motherhood in media. Don’t forget, you are doing amazing <3  If you can, please rate this episode and leave a review! It all matters. Learn more: themomexistence.com Instagram & TikTok @themomexistence  

In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Chloe Wilde—TV personality, journalist, podcaster and new mom—who is navigating the beautiful chaos of motherhood while balancing a thriving career and a love for fashion. Chloe opens up about her deeply personal IVF journey, the losses and challenges she faced before welcoming her son, and how those experiences shaped her perspective on motherhood. From recording during naptime to battling sickness (because #momlife), we dive into her 15-hour flight alone with a baby, the fourth trimester struggles, and how dressing up for her 100 Days of Fashion challenge helped her reconnect with herself. She shares her thoughts on mom guilt, going back to work, the biggest lies moms are told, bad parenting advice, and what surprised her most about becoming a mother. This is a raw, honest, and inspiring conversation about resilience, love, and stepping into motherhood after loss and uncertainty. Don’t forget, you are doing amazing <3  ✨ Follow Chloe on Instagram @thechloewilde 🎧 Listen & subscribe for more real mom talk! Learn more: linktr.ee/thechloewilde