Every parent knows the drill, just when you're finding your rhythm, the sniffles, fevers, and sleepless nights hit. In this episode, Juliana and Nathaly open up about the reality of caring for sick little ones while still trying to juggle work, home, relationships, and self-care. From the emotional toll of seeing your child unwell to the logistics of rearranging schedules, we share out personal stories, the chaos behind the scenes, and the small strategies that keep us going. You'll hear about: The guilt and pressure parents feel when life can't pause How to manage work responsibilities when kids need you most Ways to prioritize your own health while caregiving Reminders that it's okay to ask for help (and say no!)Whether you're in the thick of it right now or just want to feel seen and supported, this episode is a reminder that you're not alone. Tune in for an honest, unfiltered (and emotional) conversation about motherhood in the messiest seasons. Let's keep the conversation going: DM us on Instagram @thiswasntinthemanualpod and share your motherhood reality check moments.Listen now and don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review!
Becoming parents changes everything—not just your daily routines, but also your relationship with your partner. In this episode, we talk about the messy, beautiful, and sometimes overwhelming transition from being lovers to being parents. We dive into how intimacy shifts after kids, why communication becomes more important than ever, and how to balance romance with the never-ending demands of parenthood.Whether you’re a new parent wondering why your relationship feels different, or a seasoned parent trying to rekindle that spark, this conversation is for you. We share our own raw experiences, the challenges we didn’t see coming, and the small things that help us stay connected as partners while raising little ones.What we talk about: The emotional adn physical shift in relationships after kidsNavigating intimacy and expectations post-babyThe importance of open, honest communicationPractical ways to keep the spark alive while juggling parenthoodWhy grace and patience matter more than everWe’re breaking the silence on a topic many couples struggle with but don’t always talk about. By the end, you’ll feel seen, less alone, and hopefully inspired with a few ideas to nurture your partnership while growing as parents.Let's keep the conversation going: DM us on Instagram @thiswasntinthemanualpod and share your motherhood reality check moments.Listen now and don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review!
Raising boys today comes with unique challenges, and incredible opportunities. From navigating expectations to encouraging emotional intelligence, this conversation dives into what it means to raise boys in a world that's rapidly changing. In this episode, Juliana and Nathaly share their personal experiences as mothers of boys and explore important questions: How do we teach boys to express their emotions? What role fathers, mothers, and caregivers play in shaping healthy masculinity?How do we balance resilience with compassion? What cultural and generational shifts are shaping the way we parent sons today? Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or simply curious about how we can nurture the next generation of men, this episode will leave you with insights, stories and envouragment to raise boys with confidence, empathy, and strength. Let's keep the conversation going: DM us on Instagram @thiswasntinthemanualpod and share your motherhood reality check moments.Listen now and don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review!
If you’ve ever ended the day replaying all the things you “should” have done differently as a mom, this episode is for you.We’re talking about mom guilt—that quiet (and sometimes loud) voice in your head that says you’re not doing enough, not being enough, or not getting it “right.”In this conversation, we unpack: The most common triggers of mom guilt (and why it shows up in so many forms) The invisible rules of "good motherhood" and where they come from The difference between guilt and shame, and why knowing the difference matters Our own way, personal stories of feeling guilty as moms Practical tools to release the guilt and replace it with self-compassion Whether you're a working mom, stay-at-home mom, single mom, or somewhere in between, you'll walk away feeling less alone and more empowered to give yourself the grace you deserve. You are enough. And you're not meant to carry this weight forever. Let's keep the conversation going: DM us on Instagram @thiswasntinthemanualpod and share your motherhood reality check moments.Listen now and don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review!
In this intimate and fun episode, Nathaly interview Juliana about her experience as a single mom and what its been like to open her heart to love again. Juliana shares her fears, doubts, and unexpected surprises she's encountered as she begins dating again. From the insecurities that come with balancing motherhood and the desire to connect with someone new, to the small steps that have helped her trust herself, and love, once more. In this episode we talk about: The breakup and her emotional healing process How to talk to your child about new people Why self-love is essential before dating again Real advice for single moms who want to date again without guilt This episode is an honest, judgment-free conversation about what it really means to "get back out there" as a mom. If you've ever wondered how to start again, this one's for you! Let's keep the conversation going: DM us on Instagram @thiswasntinthemanualpod and share your motherhood reality check moments.Listen now and don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review!
En este episodio poderoso y vulnerable, profundizamos en los patrones inconscientes que cargamos desde nuestra infancia y como estos se infiltran en nuestra manera de criar, lo reconozcamos o no. Desde creencias generacionales hasta detonantes emocionales, exploramos como la programacion infantil moldea la forma en la que nos presentamos como mamas. Lo mas importante: hablamos sobre cdomo la conciencia, la sanacion y tomar decisiones conscientes pueden ayudarnos a romper el ciclo y crear un camino nuevo y mas saludable para nuestros hijos. En este episodio hablamos sobre: Que significa realmente la "programacion infantil" y como se forma Historias personales de cuando nuestra programacion infantil sale a luz en la maternidadLa diferencia entre reaccionar y responder a nuestros hijos Por que ciertos momentos con nuestros hijos despiertan emociones intensas en nosotras Como el reparenting a nosotras mismas impacta nuestra manera de criar Darnos gracia (a nosotras y a nuestros padres) durante el proceso de sanacion Sigamos la conversación:Mándanos un DM en Instagram a @thiswasntinthemanualpod y cuéntanos tus momentos de realidad en la maternidad.¡Escúchalo ahora y no te olvides de suscribirte, calificar el podcast y dejar una reseña!
En este episodio íntimo y lleno de verdad, Nathaly entrevista a Juliana sobre su experiencia como mamá soltera y cómo ha sido el proceso de abrir nuevamente su corazón al amor.Juliana comparte con nosotras los miedos, dudas, y también las sorpresas que ha vivido al comenzar a salir de nuevo. Desde las inseguridades que surgen al balancear la maternidad con el deseo de conectar con alguien, hasta los pequeños pasos que le han ayudado a confiar nuevamente en sí misma y en el amor.Hablamos de:La ruptura y el duelo emocionalCómo hablar con tu hijx sobre nuevas personasLa importancia del amor propio antes de salir con alguien másLas citas modernas: apps, expectativas y filtros emocionalesConsejos reales para mamás solteras que quieren salir de nuevo sin culpaEste episodio es una conversación honesta, sin juicios, sobre lo que realmente significa “volver al ruedo” como mamá. Si alguna vez te has preguntado cómo empezar de nuevo, este episodio es para ti.Sigamos la conversación:Mándanos un DM por Instagram a @thiswasntinthemanualpod y cuéntanos tus momentos de “realidad” en la maternidad.¡Escucha el episodio ahora y no olvides suscribirte, calificarnos y dejar una reseña!
En este episodio íntimo y lleno de reflexión, hablamos sobre lo que significa criar a nuestros propios hijos mientras seguimos siendo hijas de madres latinas. Exploramos las dinámicas culturales, emocionales y a veces conflictivas que surgen cuando las expectativas tradicionales se encuentran con una nueva visión de la maternidad.Desde comentarios no solicitados hasta consejos bien intencionados, este episodio es una carta abierta a nuestras madres —y a nosotras mismas— mientras navegamos el reto de romper patrones sin perder nuestras raíces.Temas que tocamos: El choque generacional entre nuestra forma de maternar y la de nuestras mamas Comentarios clasicos como "lo estas malcriando" La dificultad de poner limites con respetoReconciliar el amor profundo con el deseo de hacerlo diferente Como sanar heridas mientras construimos nuestro propio camino como madres Sigamos la conversación:Mándanos un DM por Instagram a @thiswasntinthemanualpod y cuéntanos tus momentos de “realidad” en la maternidad.¡Escucha el episodio ahora y no olvides suscribirte, calificarnos y dejar un review!
In this powerful and timely episode, we’re diving into the evolution of fatherhood—how the role of dads has shifted from distant provider to present, emotionally available parent—and what that means for families today.In this episode we discuss: What modern fatherhood looks like and how it's changing across generations Why many dads want to show up differently, but aren't always sure howThe emotional & societal pressures men face when stepping into this new roleWays we (mothers/partners) can offer/show support without necessarily micromanaging or judgingHow to encourage teamwork, co-parenting, and mutual respect in parenting dynamics Whether you’re parenting with a partner, co-parenting, or just curious about how family roles are shifting, this episode offers fresh insights and compassionate guidance.Let's keep the conversation going: DM us on Instagram @thiswasntinthemanualpod and share your motherhood reality check moments.Listen now and don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review!
In this episode, we dive into the power of mindset in motherhood—what it really means, why it matters, and how it can shape your experience as a mom. From sleepless nights to moments of self-doubt, your mindset becomes the internal lens through which you interpret everything. While circumstances around us—our kids' behavior, our partner’s support (or lack of it), the mess, the exhaustion—are often out of our control, how we respond to them is not.We explore how your past experiences shape your automatic interpretations and why it's so easy to fall into the “Why me?” spiral. But even when it feels impossible to shift your mindset, there’s power in pausing and asking, “What is this here to teach me?”In this episodes we discuss: Ways that shifting your mindset can help you How Circumstances are often out of our control, but our mindset is not.How shifting your mindset doesn’t mean ignoring reality—it means choosing how you make meaning from it.How your mindset can be your greatest support as a mother—not another thing to perfect, but something to nurture.Let's keep the conversation going: DM us on Instagram @thiswasntinthemanualpod and share your motherhood reality check moments.Listen now and don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review!
In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most powerful yet often overlooked tools we have as mothers: our intuition. We explore what intuition really is, why it's sometimes hard to trust, and why following it can make all the difference—especially when it comes to protecting, supporting, and advocating for our children.We share personal stories about moments when intuition stepped in, particularly in situations involving doctors, teachers, and systems that don’t always get it right. We also talk about the tension between self-doubt and that gut feeling, and how societal conditioning can make us second-guess ourselves.Topics discussed: What is intuition and how does it show up in Motherhood? Why it's so hard to trust ourselves sometimes Real-life examples of when listening to our gut mattered How to strengthen your connection with your intuition Ways to reframe doubt as a signal, not a stop sign Practices to help you tune in (instead of tuning out) Your intuition isn’t something you have to earn—it’s already there. The more you listen to it, the louder and clearer it becomes. Especially as a mom, when you're the one who knows your child best, your inner knowing can be the strongest guide you have.Let's keep the conversation going: DM us on Instagram @thiswasntinthemanualpod and share your motherhood reality check moments.Listen now and don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review!
In this powerful and personal episode, we’re diving deep into the often uncomfortable—but completely necessary—conversation around boundaries in motherhood. As Latina moms ourselves, we know how complicated it can feel to start setting boundaries, especially with our own mothers who raised us with very different expectations.We explore how boundaries aren’t walls—they’re bridges to healthier relationships, more energy, and a stronger sense of self. Whether it's saying no to your mom’s unsolicited advice, carving out time for yourself, or establishing clear lines with your partner, friends, or workplace, this episode is all about giving you the tools (and permission!) to do so.In this episode, we discuss: How to set boundaries with your mom Why boundaries are essential for protecting your energy and sanity as a motherHow setting boundaries teaches your children self-respect and emotional intelligence The importance of respecting yourselfNavigating boundaries with your partner, friends and how to advocate for yourself at workSimple, practical ways to start setting boundaries today - even if it feels awkward Setting boundaries isn't selfish – it's self-respect. When you honor your own needs, you're not only modeling emotional strength for your kids, you're creating space for more authentic relationships across every part of your life. Let's keep the conversation going: DM us on Instagram @thiswasntinthemanualpod and share your motherhood reality check moments.Listen now and don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review!
In this episode, Juliana & Nathaly sit down to unpack the pressure-packed question: Is it really possible to do everything as a mom? From juggling careers, relationships, parenting, self-care, social lives, and mental health - modern motherhood comes with a silent expetation to do it all, and to do it perfectly. But at what cost? We get real about: The societal myths if the "supermom" and how they show up in daily life The guilt and burnout that can come with trying to meet unrealistic standards The power of redefining what "doing it all" means for each of us If you've ever asked yourself, "how is everyone else managing this?" - this episode is for you. You're not alone, and you're doing better than you think. Let's keep the conversation going: DM us on Instagram @thiswasntinthemanualpod and share your motherhood reality check moments.Listen now and don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review!
In this powerful episode, Juliana and Nathaly dive deep into the all-too-familiar role many mothers unconsciously fall into: the motherhood martyr. From skipping meals to sacrificing sleep, hobbies, and identity—many moms are taught that good motherhood means self-erasure. But what if that’s a lie?In this episode we discuss: How the pressure to "do it all" begins the moment we're pregnant - and how we're fed a long list of "shoulds" we may not even wantThe cultural conditioning that glorifies martyrdom in motherhood The hidden costs of repression - how denying your own needs can lead to chronic anger, burnout and even illness or autoimmune disease Why self-sacrifice isn't sustainable, or noble - it's a cycle that depletes everyone How to start rewriting the story: honoring your needs doesn't mean you love your child any less This isn’t about perfection. It’s about permission—to rest, to ask for help, to take up space, and to mother from a place of wholeness.Whether you're deep in the baby trenches or juggling school drop-offs and career demands, this episode is a loving call to stop setting yourself on fire to keep everyone else warm. Let's keep the conversation going: DM us on Instagram @thiswasntinthemanualpod and share your motherhood reality check moments.Listen now and don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review!
In this powerful and vulnerable episode, we dive deep into the unconscious patterns we carry from our own childhoods—and how they sneak into our parenting, whether we realize it or not. From generational beliefs to emotional triggers, we unpack how childhood conditioning shapes the way we show up as moms. Most importantly, we explore how awareness, healing, and conscious choices can help break the cycle and create a new, healthier path for our children.In this episode we talk about: What "childhood conditioning" really means and how it forms Personal stories of when our childhood programming surfaces in motherhood The difference between reacting and responding to our children Why certain moments with our kids trigger big emotions in us How reparenting ourselves impacts the way we parent Giving ourselves (and our parents) grace through the healing journeyLet's keep the conversation going: DM us on Instagram @thiswasntinthemanualpod and share your motherhood reality check moments.Listen now and don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review!
Motherhood doesn’t just change your schedule — it changes you. In this deeply honest episode, Juli & Nat unpack the often-unspoken grief that comes with becoming a mother: the grief of losing who you once were.We explore how shedding your old identity, though painful, is also a profound invitation to grow — into a stronger, wiser, more aligned version of yourself.In this episode, we talk about:Grieving the old you and why that’s not something to fear, but to honorHow identity shifts in motherhood can open doors to new opportunities and self-discoveryThe bittersweet process of losing old friendships and filtering out what no longer serves your evolving selfGrieving the passing baby phase — how fast time moves and what it stirs in usHow motherhood can reshape your relationship with your partner, and what that transition can feel likeThis episode is for the mama who looks in the mirror and sees someone different — and isn’t quite sure how to feel about it. It's for the woman sitting in the in-between — missing who she was, but not yet fully grounded in who she's becoming.Let’s grieve together, grow together, and celebrate the beauty of becoming.Let's keep the conversation going: DM us on Instagram @thiswasntinthemanualpod and share your motherhood reality check moments Listen now and don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review!
In this episode, Nathaly & Juliana, discuss what we like to describe as "The Cocoon Stage" the messy, quiet, often lonely part. The part where everything feels like it’s shifting—your identity, your priorities, your relationships, even your body and mind. It’s the stage where you’re wrapped up in routines, doubts, sleepless nights, and the invisible labor no one applauds.But it’s also where the transformation happens. Growth, healing, shedding old skin. It’s uncomfortable because you’re becoming. And no butterfly skips the cocoon.So if you’re in the thick of it—wondering if you’ll ever feel like yourself again—remember: You’re not stuck. You’re transforming.This isn’t the end. It’s the beginning of your wings.Grab a cup of coffee, glass of wine or any beverage of your choice and join us for some truth, laughter, and solidarity. Lets keep the conversation going: DM us on Instagram @thiswasntinthemanualpod and share your motherhood reality check moments Listen now and don't forget to subscribe, rate and leave a review!
In this episode, Juliana and Nathaly dive deep into the contrast between what we thought motherhood would be—and what it actually is. From dreamy Pinterest nursery boards and peaceful baby cuddles to the sleepless nights, emotional rollercoasters, and unexpected identity shifts, they share personal stories and honest reflections on how motherhood has challenged, humbled, and transformed them.Whether you’re expecting your first baby, in the thick of toddler chaos, or just looking for a little validation, this is the raw and relatable conversation you didn’t know you needed.In this episode, we talk about: Our pre-baby visions of motherhood Not being "kid" people and then becoming mothers Guilt and what no one tells you How motherhood reshapes your identityLearning to let go of unrealistic expectations and embrace the messy beauty of real-life parenting Grab a cup of coffee, glass of wine or any beverage of your choice and join us for some truth, laughter, and solidarity. Let's keep the conversation going: DM us on Instagram @thiswasntinthemanualpod and share your motherhood reality check moments Listen now and don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review!