Momcozy Village - Together We Grow

Every mom knows what it feels like to juggle so many things at once that two arms hardly seem enough. But trying to do it all can take a toll. So, what can help moms feel seen and supported?In this episode of Momcozy Village: Together We Grow, Natalie Gouché chats with Emily Busby, author of Mommy’s Not an Octopus, a children’s book that teaches kids that moms can’t do it all.The book grew out of an ordinary family moment: a hectic dinner party where Emily was juggling several things at once. When her kids started calling out requests, her husband told them, “Give your mom a second. She’s not an octopus.” Just like that, an idea and a new Busby family saying were born.As a college athlete, Emily became used to doing it all: studying, practicing, and competing. However, she realized that bringing the same mindset to motherhood led to burnout and anxiety. One of the book’s most powerful lessons is that kids can help their moms, and that helping can become something positive, like a game or an activity to do together. Young children may take a while to learn tasks such as unloading the dishwasher or folding clothes, but teaching them to pitch in gives them valuable, foundational skills while helping moms manage the day-to-day load.Like all moms, Emily sometimes needs a moment to herself to catch her breath during a busy day. Mommy’s Not an Octopus encourages kids to give Mom the space to pause and recharge. After all, moms may have unlimited love, but they don’t have unlimited energy.Episode Highlights01:00 – Why Emily wrote Mommy’s Not an Octopus.02:28 – What the book is about.04:16 – How Emily’s athletic training played a role in her approach to motherhood.08:08 – How boundaries are discussed in the book.11:02 – How the book has changed Emily’s kids.13:05 – People-pleasing and boundaries.15:58 – Ways to involve kids in day-to-day activities.18:01 – Emily’s final thoughts.About the Guest: Emily BusbyEmily Busby is a mom of two adventurous girls, a wife, a corporate professional, and the owner of EJL Designs, her creative small business. One evening, amid the usual dinnertime bustle of clanging dishes, questions from every direction, and a little chaos, her husband exclaimed, “Mommy is not an octopus!” Her oldest burst into laughter, and just like that, the idea for the book was born. Emily hopes Mommy’s Not an Octopus brings smiles to busy families everywhere and reminds parents that doing their best is more than enough, even without eight arms.Connect With UsMomcozyWebsite | Facebook | YouTube | InstagramEmily BusbyWebsiteAbout the Podcast: Momcozy Village – Together We GrowMomcozy Village: Together We Grow is a podcast where moms gather to learn, share, and support each other. Hosted by Natalie Gouché, each episode features inspiring conversations on motherhood: from career transitions to mental health and beyond.Backed by Momcozy, makers of innovative wearable breast pumps and cozy nursing bras, the podcast is part of a movement to empower moms through every phase of early motherhood.Enjoying the Show? Subscribe so you never miss an episode. If you’re enjoying the conversations, consider leaving us a 5-star review—it helps us grow the village and support more moms. Follow Koala Tots for more calming bedtime stories, or listen ad-free with bonus sleepy compilations on Koala Tots Plus  https://koalatots.supercast.com Narrated by Abbe OpherMusic by Sokratis SeirlisInstagram: @koalakids.fm

Identity is something that moms sometimes don’t really think about until they bring a baby into the world. After that, many find they struggle with who they are and start to wonder—am I just a mom now?In this episode of Momcozy Village: Together We Grow, Natalie Gouché talks with Tara Clark, an author, content creator, and founder of Modern Mom Probs. Tara has grown her online community into a powerful platform with a huge social media presence, a podcast, and a book.Before becoming a mom, Tara worked in television as the social media face of Nickelodeon. But when she stepped back from work to care for her son, Jack, she began to worry that she had lost part of herself. Tara isn’t alone: hundreds of moms in her community share the same feeling. Tara recommends two ways to reconnect with yourself. The first is to do more of what you love, whether that means getting your nails done or simply taking a walk alone after dinner. She says that the more you focus on what makes you who you are, the more you’ll rediscover the parts of yourself you may not have had time for lately.Second, find a community. If you don’t have a village around you, it’s important for your well-being to find people who can support you and help you reconnect with yourself. Tara’s message is clear: you can always rediscover yourself, even if the person you find is different from who you were before.Episode Highlights01:07 – Tara’s Nickelodeon life before having a baby.02:15 – How Modern Mom Probs was born.04:06 – How Tara experiences “mom identity.”08:36 – How identity shifts through the seasons of motherhood.11:25 –  Stories from the Modern Mom Probs community.17:52 – Tara’s parting advice for moms struggling with identity.About the Guest: Tara ClarkTara Clark is an author, speaker, content creator, podcaster, and founder of Modern Mom Probs. After becoming a mom, she noticed there was no honest online space for moms to connect, so she launched her Instagram account in 2017. Since then, she has built a strong community and become known as a funny, trusted voice in parenting. Her work has appeared in BuzzFeed, Today, Motherly, Parents.com, Scary Mommy, Romper, and Yahoo Life. Tara is the author of Modern Mom Probs: A Survival Guide for 21st Century Mothers and the founder of Modern Mom Style Box, a clothing rental subscription for busy moms.She also hosts the Modern Mom Probs podcast, where she explores solutions to modern motherhood challenges with medical experts, therapists, popular content creators, and best-selling authors.Connect With UsMomcozyWebsite | Facebook | YouTube | InstagramTara ClarkWebsite | Podcast | InstagramAbout the Momcozy Mom, and More CampaignThis year, Momcozy Brand Day introduces Mom, and More—a campaign built on a simple belief: motherhood doesn’t replace who a woman already is; it expands her. Through real stories, community conversations, and support across body, time, emotion, and identity, Momcozy is celebrating everything motherhood adds—and creating more room for moms to keep growing, dreaming, and becoming. Because she is never only one thing. She is Mom, and More. Now through October 14, become a Momcozy Member for a chance to win a Mom and More Gift Box filled with motherhood essentials, valued at $350.About the Podcast: Momcozy Village – Together We GrowMomcozy Village: Together We Grow is a podcast where moms gather to learn, share, and support each other. Hosted by Natalie Gouché, each episode features inspiring conversations on motherhood: from career transitions to mental health and beyond.Backed by Momcozy, makers of innovative wearable breast pumps and cozy nursing bras, the podcast is part of a movement to empower moms through every phase of early motherhoodEnjoying the Show? Subscribe so you never miss an episode. If you’re enjoying the conversations, consider leaving a five-star review. It helps us grow the village and support more moms. Follow Koala Tots for more calming bedtime stories, or listen ad-free with bonus sleepy compilations on Koala Tots Plus  https://koalatots.supercast.com Narrated by Abbe OpherMusic by Sokratis SeirlisInstagram: @koalakids.fm

What moms hope breastfeeding will be like often doesn’t match what really happens. This can leave some moms feeling discouraged or unsure of themselves. So how can moms set realistic expectations for breastfeeding?In this episode of Momcozy Village: Together We Grow, Natalie Gouché talks with Nicki Davis. Nicki, known as The Baby Whisperer, is a lactation consultant who has spent 20 years helping moms and babies learn to breastfeed with confidence and calm.Nicki believes many moms think that because breastfeeding is ‘natural,’ it should be easy, but that’s not always true. She also reminds moms that every new baby is a new learning experience for both mom and child. Nicki suggests starting fresh with each baby, since you're both learning together. This way, moms can celebrate small successes and keep their expectations realistic.In Nicki’s experience, most moms don’t think much about breastfeeding until they start. She recommends joining a breastfeeding support group once the baby arrives. Getting to know the group ahead of time means you’ll have support when you need it most. A consultant can ensure you have support during this sometimes challenging period in your baby's development. She also reminds moms that breastfeeding will look different at different stages of your baby’s development. The time they comfort-breastfeed is short, so enjoy it.Episode Highlights02:02 – The myth of breastfeeding coming naturally — especially with multiple kids.05:21 – Breastfeeding myths that harm expectations.09:19 –  What's the difference between hospital lactation consultants and private ones?11:08 –  Moms spend zero time getting prenatal breastfeeding advice. 12:39 –  What's the first step in looking for a lactation consultant? 14:39 – Babies change quickly, and so do their breastfeeding habits.16:53 – How do family members impact breastfeeding expectations?18:35 – The mental load of breastfeeding.22:49 – Breastfeeding isn’t all or nothing.About the Guest: Nicki DavisNicki Davis is known as the Baby Whisperer. She’s a registered nurse, lactation consultant, and proud mom of four kids. With over 20 years of experience working with moms and babies, Nicki has learned that every feeding journey is as unique as the little one in your arms. Her passion for breastfeeding started with her own children. Those early moments of learning to nurse inspired her to help other families find their rhythm too. Nicki combines her nursing background with her experience as a mom to support you at every stage, from pregnancy to late-night feeds and everything in between. Her goal is to help you feel confident, supported, and empowered in your breastfeeding journey.Connect With UsMomcozyWebsite | Facebook | YouTube | InstagramNicki DavisWebsite | Spill the Milk PodcastAbout the Podcast: Momcozy Village – Together We GrowMomcozy Village: Together We Grow is a podcast where moms gather to learn, share, and support each other. Hosted by Natalie Gouché, each episode features inspiring conversations on motherhood: from career transitions to mental health and beyond.Backed by Momcozy, makers of innovative wearable breast pumps and cozy nursing bras, the podcast is part of a movement to empower moms through every phase of early motherhood.Enjoying the Show? Subscribe so you never miss an episode. If you’re enjoying the conversations, consider leaving us a 5-star review—it helps us grow the village and support more moms. Follow Koala Tots for more calming bedtime stories, or listen ad-free with bonus sleepy compilations on Koala Tots Plus  https://koalatots.supercast.com Narrated by Abbe OpherMusic by Sokratis SeirlisInstagram: @koalakids.fm

We spend a lot of time planning for our baby's arrival, but often overlook getting ready for breastfeeding. This important stage in your newborn’s life can be challenging, so it helps to prepare before your baby is born.In this episode of Momcozy Village: Together We Grow, Natalie Gouché chats with Dr. Doreen Brass. Doreen, also known as The Mama Coach, is a lactation consultant who helps moms learn about breastfeeding and much more.Doreen often hears moms compare how much milk they pump and expel to what influencers show online. She says it’s like seeing someone’s mansion when you live in a regular house. What you see online is often an idealized version of a tough journey that has ups and downs. Doreen recommends seeking real professional advice early and not basing your expectations on what you see on social media.Breastfeeding is natural, but that doesn’t mean it’s always easy. Your baby is learning along with you. If you have more than one child, each baby can be different and bring new challenges, as Doreen points out.Doreen encourages moms to be proud of themselves, no matter how much milk they produce or pump. She believes it’s important to set realistic goals that fit each mom’s unique situation.Episode Highlights01:06 – When should moms start thinking about when preparing for breastfeeding?03:32 – What are ‘realistic’ breastfeeding expectations?06:25 – Breastfeeding myths that aren’t true.10:11 – Mom should given themselves grace.11:16 – How partners can help with breastfeeding.12:35 – Nutrition and breastfeeding.16:53 – Doreen’s final thoughts.About the Guest: Dr. Doreen BrassDoreen is a Registered Nurse, Board-Certified Lactation Consultant, and a mom of two. Throughout her 20+ year career, she has worked in L&D, High Risk Obstetrics, Mom/Baby, GYN, Nursery, and NICU.Her passion is helping guide new families into their most challenging and rewarding role, starting from the womb. She has supported and advocated for informed consent, physiological birth, and shared decision-making. Through her work as a nurse and her own experience as a mother, she has learned that bombarding new families with education during their short hospital stay is not the most effective teaching method. This realization is what led her to start her mama coach journey. Her own motherhood journey included two high-risk pregnancies and several breastfeeding challenges. She would love to take the time to get to know you and the challenges you face, so she can tailor her support to your needs in a judgment-free zone.Connect With UsMomcozyWebsite | Facebook | YouTube | InstagramDr. Doreen BrassWebsiteAbout the Podcast: Momcozy Village – Together We GrowMomcozy Village: Together We Grow is a podcast where moms gather to learn, share, and support each other. Hosted by Natalie Gouché, each episode features inspiring conversations on motherhood: from career transitions to mental health and beyond.Backed by Momcozy, makers of innovative wearable breast pumps and cozy nursing bras, the podcast is part of a movement to empower moms through every phase of early motherhood.Enjoying the Show? Subscribe so you never miss an episode. If you’re enjoying the conversations, consider leaving us a 5-star review—it helps us grow the village and support more moms. Follow Koala Tots for more calming bedtime stories, or listen ad-free with bonus sleepy compilations on Koala Tots Plus  https://koalatots.supercast.com Narrated by Abbe OpherMusic by Sokratis SeirlisInstagram: @koalakids.fm

Sex can be a tough topic to talk about, especially when your body, hormones, and sense of self are changing. So, in this episode, we’ll cover what you need to know about sex during pregnancy and after your baby arrives. To dig deep into this topic, Natalie is joined by Dr. Somi Javaid, an OB/GYN, founder of HerMD, and host of the award-winning podcast disruptHER.Pregnancy often changes how moms feel about sex, and these shifts can happen at different stages. In the first trimester, things like morning sickness and changes in breast size can affect how women see sex. Some women even notice their sex drive goes up in the second trimester, but that’s not true for everyone. By the third trimester, more gas and concerns about the pelvic floor can make sex less appealing again. Dr. Somi points out that not all women go through the same sexual changes during pregnancy. What matters most is talking openly with your partner about how you feel. These conversations can cover what you’re comfortable with and what you’re not, and it’s best to keep them going throughout pregnancy and after.Dr. Somi also clears up some common myths about sex during pregnancy, such as worries about hurting the baby or causing labor to start.She also encourages moms to ask their doctor questions about sex and pregnancy to make sure they are staying safe, especially if they have a condition that could be a concern. She also reminds listeners how important it is to have an OB/GYN you trust and feel comfortable talking to.Overall, Dr. Somi emphasizes that you are in control of your sexual health and have the right to ask questions to get the best care for yourself.Episode Highlights00:58 – Changes in pregnant mom’s sex life.05:34 – Dr. Somi busts some pregnancy sex myths.08:30 – Are there times when moms shouldn’t have sex when pregnant?11:20 – Advocating for clear conversations with your OB/GYN.13:11 – How mom’s sex lives change after giving birth.15:36 – Communicating with your partner before and after the baby arrives. 16:31 – Busting the ‘six week’ myth.19:14 –  Other ways of creating intimacy.24:25 –  Dr. Somi’s final thoughts.About the Guest: Dr. Somi JavaidDr. Somi Javaid is a board-certified OB/GYN and surgeon who founded HerMD in 2015, a women's healthcare platform built to close longstanding gaps in menopause, sexual health, and gynecologic care. She earned her medical degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, completed her OB/GYN residency there (serving as Chief Resident), and did a preceptorship at the San Diego Institute of Sexual Medicine. She later served as an assistant professor of gynecology at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center before scaling HerMD into a venture-backed care platform.She's been named to Inc.'s Female Founders 250 (2024), received the Cincinnati Top Doc honors, and delivered a TEDx talk on gender disparity in sexual healthcare. Her work centers on de-stigmatizing conversations around women's sexual health, hormones, and menopause care. She is also the host of the award-winning disruptHER podcast,Connect With UsMomcozyWebsite | Facebook | YouTube | InstagramDr. Somi JavaidWebsite | disruptHER podcast | HerMDAbout the Podcast: Momcozy Village – Together We GrowMomcozy Village: Together We Grow is a podcast where moms gather to learn, share, and support each other. Hosted by Natalie Gouché, each episode features inspiring conversations on motherhood: from career transitions to mental health and beyond.Backed by Momcozy, makers of innovative wearable breast pumps and cozy nursing bras, the podcast is part of a movement to empower moms through every phase of early motherhood.Enjoying the Show? Subscribe so you never miss an episode. If you’re enjoying the conversations, consider leaving us a 5-star review—it helps us grow the village and support more moms. Follow Koala Tots for more calming bedtime stories, or listen ad-free with bonus sleepy compilations on Koala Tots Plus  https://koalatots.supercast.com Narrated by Abbe OpherMusic by Sokratis SeirlisInstagram: @koalakids.fm