The Mom Mentality Podcast

Episode 21: Redefining Your Worth: Body Image and Identity Shifts in Motherhood with Francesca Emma

Welcome to the 21st episode of The Mom Mentality Podcast!! This GUEST episode with Francesca Emma, mother and Licensed Mental Health Counselor, is all about body image and identity changes in motherhood! She shares her insights on motherhood, body image, and emotional eating. We  discuss the importance of modeling healthy relationships with food for children, understanding the impact of pregnancy on body image, and navigating the challenges of emotional eating and shame. We also get into social media’s influence on our body image and how to build a community around you that is supportive. 
 
If you love the episode I would so appreciate you sharing/rating/subscribing!! 
 
 
Chapters
00:00 The Importance of Family Meals
03:38 Modeling Healthy Relationships with Food
05:59 The Journey to Becoming a Mental Health Counselor
08:44 Understanding Eating Disorders
11:18 Navigating Body Image During Pregnancy
13:59 The Impact of Language on Body Image
16:50 Shifting the Dialogue Around Food and Body
19:48 Emotional Eating and Its Triggers
22:33 Prioritizing Self-Care as a Parent
26:16 Encouraging Healthy Relationships with Food
28:49 Practicing Body Gratitude
30:34 Navigating Identity Grief in Motherhood
31:30 The Importance of Self-Care
33:14 Building a Supportive Community
35:45 Understanding Emotions in Motherhood
37:41 Curating Positive Social Media Experiences
39:25 The Journey of Self-Discovery
42:21 Communicating with Children
45:03 The Importance of Self-Regulation
48:31 Finding Community and Support
 
Francesca Emma, is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor specializing in body image, anxiety, and maternal mental health. She works with women through all stages of life—but especially during transitions like fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum—helping them feel grounded, supported, and more connected to themselves. Her work blends clinical therapy with real-life tools to support emotional wellness in a sustainable, compassionate way.
 
Website: https://www.francescaemmalmhc.com/
Instagram handle: @francescaemmalmhc
 
I look forward to seeing you back here next week for another episode! Until then, be gentle with yourself!
Connect on Instagram: @talkingdrtal    
Check out my website: https://www.drnataliarappa.com
Email: drnataliarappa@gmail.com 
 
motherhood, body image, emotional eating, self-care, parenting, mental health, community support, mindfulness, self-acceptance, transformation
 

Episode 20: Healing the Mother Wound with Marci Baron

Welcome to the 20th episode of The Mom Mentality Podcast!! This GUEST episode with Marci Baron, intuitive guide, energy alchemist, author and mom, gets into the topic of the Mother Wound! She helps us understand how to identify the Mother Wound within ourselves and how she helps her clients to heal in order to improve their motherhood journeys and relationship to themselves and other women. 
 
If you love the episode I would so appreciate you sharing/rating/subscribing!! 
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Marci Barron
03:28 Marci's Journey into Motherhood and Healing
07:10 The Impact of Loss on Personal Growth
10:32 The Shift from Trauma to Healing
14:05 Healing the Mother Wound
18:00 The Feminine Essence in Motherhood
21:08 Abandonment and Betrayal in Fertility
24:12 Personalized Healing Journeys
26:01 Understanding the Mother Wound
29:44 Generational Trauma and Healing
31:57 The Impact of Motherhood on Identity
36:38 The Ripple Effect of Healing
38:26 Self-Care and Motherhood
46:25 Navigating Fertility Challenges
47:38 The Power of Perspective in Healing
 
Marci Baron is an intuitive guide and energy alchemist who offers her clients a highly personalized and luxurious experience to regulate, clear, heal + ignite the next level of their lives. She is the author of ‘Clear Your Way Home: Stories, Reflections, and Tools to Guide You Back to the Life You’ve Always Wanted.’ Marci's expertise includes Integrated Energy Therapy, Reiki, Past Life Regression, Rapid Rewire Coaching, The Body Code, Breath Work, and Discovery Sessions.
 
Website: https://marcibaronclears.com/
Instagram handle: @marcibaron
 
I look forward to seeing you back here next week for another episode!  Until then, be gentle with yourself!
 
Connect on Instagram: @talkingdrtal    
Check out my website: https://www.drnataliarappa.com
Email: drnataliarappa@gmail.com

Episode 19: The Realities of Expecting: De-influencing Motherhood with Caitlin Wilder

Welcome to the 19th episode of The Mom Mentality Podcast!! This GUEST episode is with Caitlin Wilder from Wilder Beginnings, doula, content creator, and mom of two. We get candid about her journey to becoming a doula and content creator, the expectations vs. realities of postpartum, the lies that influencers tell about motherhood, and allowing yourself to enjoy your unique motherhood experience.
 
If you love this episode I would SO appreciate you sharing/rating/subscribing so other moms can easily find the podcast too! 
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Caitlin Wilder
05:37 Caitlin's Journey to Becoming a Doula
10:22 Navigating Postpartum Challenges
16:51 Understanding Maternal Mental Health
20:47 Navigating Postpartum Challenges
23:57 Expectations vs. Reality in Postpartum
28:18 The Impact of Social Media on Motherhood
32:42 Understanding Baby's Individuality
36:34 Embracing Flexibility in Parenting
39:25 Finding Joy in Motherhood
 
Caitlin Wilder is a mom x2, LA native, full-spectrum doula, and Certified Lactation Counselor known for keeping it maybe a little *too* real about the raw, ridiculous, and beautiful chaos of motherhood. She’s the founder of the Wilder Beginnings community—an Instagram safe space where new moms go to feel seen, supported, and laugh-cry at 3am. With huor, a deep well of expertise, and zero tolerance for sugar coated baby advice, Caitlin has built a loyal following by being the internet’s postpartum BFF. Whether she’s breaking down newborn care or dismantling and de-influencing about unrealistic mom standards, she’s here to make sure no mom feels alone.  
Website: https://www.wilderbeginnings.com/
Instagram: @wilderbeginnings 
 
I look forward to seeing you back here next week for another episode! Until then, be gentle with yourself!
 
Connect on Instagram: @talkingdrtal    
Check out my website: https://www.drnataliarappa.com
Email: drnataliarappa@gmail.com 
 

Episode 18: Staying true to you in motherhood with Kali Quinn

Welcome to the 18th episode of The Mom Mentality Podcast!! This GUEST episode with Kali Quinn, intuitive tarot card reader and mom of two, is all about connecting with and following your intuition and advocating for yourself as a mother and woman. Kali also shares an intuitive tarot card reading for the collective Mom Mentality Community with us at the end!
 
If you love the episode I would so appreciate you sharing/rating/subscribing 
 
Chapters
00:00 Embracing Intuition in a Skeptical World
11:12 Navigating Client Relationships and Boundaries
13:50 The Transformative Journey of Motherhood
16:36 Advocating for Yourself and Your Health
19:21 The Power of Maternal Intuition
21:58 Redefining Empowerment in Motherhood
24:21 The Reality of Birth Choices
27:03 Mental Health and Maternal Well-being
29:52 The Importance of Community Support
31:17 Breaking Societal Norms in Parenting
33:23 The Future of Maternal Health Awareness
35:48 The Burden of Expectations on Mothers
38:53 Navigating Mental Health and Motherhood
41:31 The Role of Intuition and Tarot in Support
43:59 Empowerment Through Self-Validation
47:43 Understanding the Male Perspective
52:37 Embracing Authenticity and Self-Acceptance
 
Kali Quinn is an Intuitive Tarot Reader, Clairvoyant, and Reiki Practitioner located in Long Beach and Woodstock, NY. Through the integration of tarot, channeling, mediumship, and energy healing, she supports others in reconnecting with their inner truth while navigating their spiritual path with clarity, compassion, and confidence. 
Her gifts first emerged in childhood, but for much of her life, she resisted them — afraid of the unknown and burdened by the shame of feeling different. Even in that resistance, she was preparing. Kali devoted herself to the study of energy work, learning many modalities of energy protection, how to channel safely, and engage with the unseen through integrity and care. In time, what once felt frightening became sacred.
Today, Kali holds space for others at every stage of their spiritual journey — whether they’re just beginning or are deeply experienced. She believes the answers we seek already live within us. Her role is not to provide them, but to reflect them back — serving as a conduit for insight, truth, and deeper alignment.
Through her business Psychic Grocery, Kali offers Intuitive Tarot Readings, Reiki Sessions, Past Life Regression, and Akashic Records Reading. Additionally, Kali makes custom ritual candles, talisman, and tea blends to aid in extra support for her clients. She works only in light, protecting each session with intention and reverence. Her practice is grounded in honesty, ethics, and a deep commitment to Spirit. This work is her calling: to remind others that they are never alone, and that their inner wisdom is always within reach.
Website: www.psychicgrocery.com
Cell: 934-414-2185
Instagram: @psychic.grocery
 
I look forward to seeing you back here next week for another episode! Until then, be gentle with yourself!
 
Connect on Instagram: @talkingdrtal    
Check out my website: https://www.drnataliarappa.com
Email: drnataliarappa@gmail.com

Episode 17: From Pain to Purpose: On Creating Inclusive Spaces for Mothers with Laura Siddons

Welcome to the 17th episode of The Mom Mentality Podcast!! This GUEST episode with Laura Siddons, co-owner of The Nesting Place, is all about creating your village, how transformational experiences shape your path, setting boundaries, and so much more! 
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Motherhood and Community Support
03:51 Laura's Journey to Becoming a Doula
06:08 The Birth of a Support Group
09:06 Transformative Experiences in Motherhood
12:08 Navigating Postpartum Challenges
15:17 Creating Inclusive Spaces for Mothers
18:04 Lessons from Twin Motherhood
21:04 The Importance of Self-Care and Boundaries
24:08 Embracing Change and Taking Risks
29:21 Finding Balance in Motherhood
31:51 The Importance of Self-Care
33:37 Healing Through Community Support
35:01 Expanding Offerings for New Parents
36:53 Creating Connections in Parenting
38:40 Reframing the Narrative of Motherhood
41:00 Building a Supportive Village
44:21 Setting Boundaries and Saying No
49:09 Cultivating Family Values
 
Laura Siddons is the co-owner of The Nesting Place and has had a passion for moms and babies since she can remember. She became a birth doula in 2008 and since then has supported hundreds of mothers and families. She works as a birth doula and teaches childbirth education classes at The Nesting Place. Through her work as a doula and own experience in becoming a mother, her passion for supporting families on their parenting paths has only continued to grow. Laura wishes to connect families with resources and 1:1 support services to help them feel supported and make personalized, informed decisions throughout their unique journey.
She believes that parents can never have enough information and support around them; and she is honored to have the opportunity to realize her dream of opening a safe space where they can gather, share, find and give support. Laura lives on Long Island with her husband, and three children.
Website: www.thenestingplaceli.com
Cell: 914-374-1523
 Instagram @thenestingplaceli or @the_venus_sisterhood
 
I look forward to seeing you back here next week for another episode! Until then, be gentle with yourself!
 
Connect on Instagram: @talkingdrtal    
Check out the website: https://www.drnataliarappa.com
Email: drnataliarappa@gmail.com 
 
motherhood, maternal mental health, postpartum support, community, doula, parenting, self-care, boundaries, support systems, motherhood journey

Episode 16: Mother or Martyr? My reflections on celebrating your birthday as a mom

Welcome to the 16th episode of The Mom Mentality Podcast!! This SOLO episode we will have an honest conversation about my experience in celebrating my birthday as a mom recently and the societal messages we get about our identity when we become mothers. 
 
Chapters
00:00 Life Update and Reflections on Motherhood
09:18 The Journey of Motherhood and Self-Care
13:39 Shifting the Narrative: Celebrating Yourself as a Mother
19:33 The Importance of Time for Moms
 
I hope you found this episode to be inspiring and transform the way you view yourself and motherhood. I am so grateful to be on this motherhood journey with you! 
 
I know your time is SO precious as a mom! If you enjoyed this episode and it resonated with you it would mean so much for you to share the episode with a fellow mom friend or put it on your social media. 
 
I look forward to seeing you back here next week for a GUEST episode with the co-owner of The Nesting Place! We get into it ALL, you don't wanna miss this one! 
 
Connect on Instagram: @talkingdrtal    
Check out the website: https://www.drnataliarappa.com
Email: drnataliarappa@gmail.com 
 
Disclaimer: Please remember that the information shared on this podcast is intended to educate, support, and uplift you on your motherhood journey. It is not a substitute for professional mental health advice or services. If you are experiencing any emotional distress, mental health challenges, or medical conditions, please seek help from a qualified professional.
motherhood, maternal mental health, self-care, grief, self-worth, parenting, birthday reflections, emotional well-being, holistic psychology, motherhood journey
 

Episode 15: How to Find More Ease in Motherhood: Applying the Wisdom of Human Design with Helen Gardner

Welcome to the 15th episode of The Mom Mentality Podcast!! This GUEST episode with Helen Gardner, is all about using your Human Design to find more flow and ease in motherhood! 
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Human Design and Motherhood
03:50 Helen's Journey into Human Design
06:54 Understanding Human Design Types
10:01 The Role of Energy Types in Parenting
12:58 Emotional vs Non-Emotional Energy Centers
15:54 Navigating Emotions as a Non-Emotional Parent
18:58 The Importance of Boundaries in Motherhood
21:57 Managing Energy and Emotions in Parenting
24:58 The Impact of Openness on Emotional Well-being
27:58 Finding Balance and Self-Care as a Parent
30:29 The Importance of Alone Time for Parents
31:53 Understanding Energy Types in Parenting
33:25 Navigating Motherhood as Different Energy Types
36:17 The Role of Human Design in Parenting
40:27 Embracing Individual Parenting Approaches
42:16 Emotional Awareness and Alignment in Motherhood
44:45 Guilt and Its Role in Motherhood
50:08 Messages from the Guides for Moms
 
Helen is a Human Design Reader, Psychic & Coach who combines deep spiritual insight with practical guidance. Helen's mission is to support her clients in healing and deconditioning so they can align with their higher purpose to live a life of ease. 
Connect with her on Instagram @itshelenmarie
 
I look forward to seeing you back here next week for another episode! Until then, be gentle with yourself!
 
Connect with me on Instagram: @talkingdrtal    
Check out the website: https://www.drnataliarappa.com
Email: drnataliarappa@gmail.com 
 
Human Design, Motherhood, Parenting, Emotional Intelligence, Self-Care, Boundaries, Empathy, Energy Types, Guilt, Self-Compassion

Episode 14: Self-Compassion and How to Meet the Moment with More Grace with Leigh Crane

Welcome to the 14th episode of The Mom Mentality Podcast!! This GUEST episode with Leigh Crane, is all about SELF COMPASSION and learning to meet the moment with presence and grace! 
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Mom Mentality Podcast
02:07 The Journey of Motherhood and Self-Compassion
06:10 Finding Balance in Parenting
10:19 Transitioning from Educator to Full-Time Mom
14:52 The Value of Motherhood and Identity
18:01 Navigating Choices in Motherhood
24:09 Experiencing Loss: The Impact of Miscarriage
26:31 Navigating the Journey of Parenthood
30:32 Embracing the Power of Presence
32:35 Workshops and Community Engagement
39:11 Nurturing Relationships Through Parenthood
45:55 Finding Joy Amidst the Challenges
 
Leigh Crane is a parent, educator, and the heart behind Moment by Moment—a resource and community dedicated to supporting families through presence, compassion, and connection. She believes small, intentional moments have the ability to build strong, resilient relationships. With a background in Early Childhood Education, Deaf Education, and Mindfulness, Leigh brings warmth, honesty, and practical tools to help parents and caregivers cultivate compassion, confidence, and clarity in everyday life. Her offerings are accessible, inclusive, and rooted in real-world care, creating spaces where families feel truly supported, seen, and less alone. Leigh believes learning never stops and is always growing right alongside the families she serves. When not holding space for growth, you’ll find her outside with her family, learning something new, or making space for joy and play.
 
Connect with her on Instagram: @momentbym.o.m.e.n.t
Website: https://www.momentby-moment.com
 
Thank you so much for listening!  I am so grateful to be on this motherhood journey with you! 
 
I know your time is SO precious as a mom! If you found this episode to be transformational and empowering  it would mean so much for you to share the episode with a fellow mom friend or put it on your social media. 
 
I look forward to seeing you back here next week for another GUEST episode And it’s gonna be a GOOD ONE! Until then, be gentle with yourself!
 
Connect on Instagram: @talkingdrtal    
Check out the website: https://www.drnataliarappa.com
Email: drnataliarappa@gmail.com 
 
Disclaimer: Please remember that the information shared on this podcast is intended to educate, support, and uplift you on your motherhood journey. It is not a substitute for professional mental health advice or services. If you are experiencing any emotional distress, mental health challenges, or medical conditions, please seek help from a qualified professional.
 
motherhood, self-compassion, parenting, balance, identity, miscarriage, mindfulness, education, mental health, parenthood, fertility, relationships, community, workshops, parenting strategies, emotional well-being, presence, joy
 

Episode 13: On Simplifying Your Self-Care as a Mom

Welcome to the 13th episode of The Mom Mentality Podcast!! This SOLO episode we will have a real talk chat about self-care as a mom. In the episode we chat about: 
 
The challenge of self-care as a mom
The way we approach self-care can create stress instead of relief.
Understand the 'how' and ‘why’ behind self-care practices.
Negative self-talk can block the benefits of self-care.
Identifying and changing negative beliefs 
Self-compassion
Mindfulness as a mom
You are not your thoughts and tools for observing your thoughts
 
Thank you so much for listening!  I am so grateful to be on this motherhood journey with you! 
 
I know your time is SO precious as a mom! If you enjoyed this episode and it resonated with you it would mean so much for you to share the episode with a fellow mom friend or put it on your social media. 
 
I look forward to seeing you back here next week for a GUEST episode And it’s gonna be a GOOD ONE! Until then, be gentle with yourself!
 
Connect on Instagram: @talkingdrtal    
Check out the website: https://www.drnataliarappa.com
Email: drnataliarappa@gmail.com 
 
Disclaimer: Please remember that the information shared on this podcast is intended to educate, support, and uplift you on your motherhood journey. It is not a substitute for professional mental health advice or services. If you are experiencing any emotional distress, mental health challenges, or medical conditions, please seek help from a qualified professional.
 
 
 

Episode 12: Reconnecting to your Innate Wisdom: Chiropractic care and Motherhood with Dr. Adriana Lazare

Welcome to the TWELFTH episode of The Mom Mentality Podcast!! This GUEST episode with Dr. Adriana Lazare, is all about trusting the innate wisdom of your body and intuition as a mom from pregnancy through postpartum. In the episode we chat about: 
 
Adriana's Journey to Chiropractic Care
The Importance of Trusting Your Body
 Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy 
The Holistic Approach to Motherhood
Tuning into Innate Wisdom
Navigating the Challenges of Motherhood
Motherless mothers and how loss impacts parenting 
Trusting Yourself as a Mother
Empowering New Mothers
 
Adriana is a mom and a chiropractor based in Long Beach, New York. When she was a kid, chiropractic changed her life and ever since it has been a part of who she is. The foundation of her practice is a trust in an innate knowing that each of us has; a trust in the inherent power of the body to adapt, heal and grow. Her practice has become a true family wellness space where she sees all ages and all walks of life, specializing in prenatal and pediatric care as it so aligns with the season of her life. She is passionate about pregnancy, birth and empowering moms in their journey of motherhood. She holds certifications in active release technique and training in pediatric care and rehabilitation methods. She has been blessed to not only receive the magic of chiropractic, but to facilitate and watch it work on others.
 
Connect with her on Instagram: @dradrianalazare
 
Thank you so much for listening!  I am so grateful to be on this motherhood journey with you! 
 
I know your time is SO precious as a mom! If you enjoyed this episode and it resonated with you it would mean so much for you to share the episode with a fellow mom friend or put it on your social media. 
 
I look forward to seeing you back here next week for a SOLO episode And it’s gonna be a GOOD ONE! Until then, be gentle with yourself!
 
Connect on Instagram: @talkingdrtal    
Check out the website: https://www.drnataliarappa.com
Email: drnataliarappa@gmail.com 
 
Disclaimer: Please remember that the information shared on this podcast is intended to educate, support, and uplift you on your motherhood journey. It is not a substitute for professional mental health advice or services. If you are experiencing any emotional distress, mental health challenges, or medical conditions, please seek help from a qualified professional.