Picking Daisies

From Grief to Growth: A Conversation About Healing Out Loud with Elise Dean

In this episode of Picking Daisies, Mary sits down with Elise [https://www.instagram.com/elise__dean/]—therapist, life coach, and founder of Be Bloomed [https://www.bebloomed.co/]—to talk about the parts of life we usually keep tucked away. From chronic health struggles and layered grief to the fine line between intuition and anxiety, this conversation is a deep dive into healing, honesty, and showing up as your full self. Elise opens up about how her own challenges led her to support others through therapy and coaching. Mary shares her experience navigating family dynamics, motherhood, and what it means to keep growing even when life feels heavy. Together, they explore how emotional intelligence, vulnerability, and authenticity aren’t just helpful—they’re healing. If you're someone who’s ever felt too much, too broken, or just tired of pretending everything’s fine—this episode is for you. 💛 Want to work with Elise? She’s offering Picking Daisies listeners 15% off a single support session with code DAISY at bebloomed.co [https://www.bebloomed.co/]. 🪻 Follow Elise on Instagram: @elise__dean [https://www.instagram.com/elise__dean] Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife [https:www.instagram.com/theverymarylife]. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife [https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife]. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com [https://www.theverymarylife.com]

C-Section Stories & the Truth Behind the Curtain

In this episode, Mary sits down with Dr. Jen Wagner and Bethany Scott—hosts of The C-Section Experience podcast [https://csxpodcast.com]—for a raw, honest, and empowering conversation about the side of childbirth that doesn’t always get the spotlight: C-sections. Bethany, a three-time C-section mom turned doula, and Jen, an OB anesthesiologist with her own Cesarean story, bring both personal experience and professional insight to the table. Together, the three unpack the emotional, physical, and mental layers of Cesarean birth—and why the narrative around it needs to change. They talk about: * What it really feels like to have a C-section—emotionally and physically * The unspoken shame and grief many women experience after * How maternal care has evolved—and where it's still falling short * The role of self-advocacy and informed decision-making * Recovery truths: the shoulder pain, nausea, and that dreaded first poop * How to find support and feel empowered, no matter how your birth unfolds This episode is filled with stories, laughter, truth bombs, and heart. Whether you’ve had a C-section, are planning one, or just want to hear what real motherhood sounds like—you’ll walk away feeling seen, heard, and a little less alone. Because every birth story matters. And it’s time we talk about them. Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife [https:www.instagram.com/theverymarylife]. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife [https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife]. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com [https://www.theverymarylife.com]

Mouth Breathing, Mom Guilt & Modern Dental Care with Tooth Pillow and Brianna Riser

In this honest and surprisingly funny episode, I’m joined by Brianna Riser [https://www.instagram.com/breereiser/?hl=en], mom, dental professional, and now VP of Experience at Toothpillow [ https://vimeo.com/987139719.]—a brand [https://www.instagram.com/toothpillow_official/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet] on a mission to change the game when it comes to pediatric dental health and sleep. We chat about everything from early orthodontic intervention (yes, it matters way more than we think) to how sleep issues and mouth breathing could be impacting your kid’s mood, focus, and development [https://www.instagram.com/toothpillow_official/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet]. Brianna breaks it all down without the jargon, shares her personal “why” behind the work she’s doing, and offers real support for parents navigating the confusing and expensive world of dental care. We also talk about: * Why sleep apnea is more common in kids than we realize * How cultural habits, diet, and access all play into oral health * The mental load of motherhood and why dental care becomes one more thing on the list * Toothpillow’s mission to educate, empower, and support families * And the very real possibility that my husband and I will have to sell feet pics to afford our kids’ future braces Whether you’re a seasoned mom or still Googling “when do baby teeth fall out,” this episode is packed with info, empathy, and reminders that you’re not alone in trying to figure it all out. Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife [https:www.instagram.com/theverymarylife]. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife [https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife]. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com [https://www.theverymarylife.com]

Take a Minute Mama... Literally

In this heartfelt and honest conversation, Emily [https://takeaminutemama.com] and Mary open up about the complexities of motherhood—from postpartum challenges to sibling dynamics, the pressures of social media, and the ever-evolving journey of self-discovery. They share how playdates have become a new stage in parenting, why embracing the chaos is necessary, and how they’re learning to carve out personal identities beyond motherhood. Together, they reflect on: * The emotional rollercoaster of postpartum and the support tools that help * Navigating sibling relationships and balancing attention * The double-edged sword of social media in shaping mom identities * The messy magic of playdates and parenting in real life * Why personal fulfillment and self-care matter just as much as snack prep and screen-time limits Key Takeaways: * Motherhood is an ongoing journey of adjustment and growth * Social media can connect moms—but also contribute to pressure and comparison * Chaos is normal in parenting; embracing it brings freedom * Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s survival * Promoting a healthy body image starts at home * Each child—and each mom—has their own unique path * Support, flexibility, and compassion (for yourself!) go a long way Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife [https:www.instagram.com/theverymarylife]. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife [https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife]. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com [https://www.theverymarylife.com]

Money Talks: How to Spend with Intention, Heal Your Money Story, and Involve Your Kids in the Conversation

In this episode of Picking Daisies, Mary sits down with financial therapist Lindsey Konchar [https://financialselfcareblog.com] to unpack the emotional side of money. Together, they dive into how our early money stories shape our adult habits, the shame that often surrounds finances, and why open conversations—especially within families—are essential. Lindsey blends behavioral therapy with practical financial tools to help families, especially stay-at-home parents, rethink their relationship with money. They discuss everything from financial infidelity and money dynamics in relationships to teaching kids how to spend with intention (and yes, even how TikTok Shop fits into it all). This is more than a budgeting chat—it’s a fresh, honest take on financial self-care, how to spend in a way that feels good, and how to raise financially aware kids without fear or scarcity. Takeaways: * Over 90% of Americans experience financial stress—you're not alone. * Your money story is learned young (by age 10!) but can be changed. * Intentional spending should create joy and reduce chaos—not shame. * Stay-at-home parents contribute in ways that deserve recognition and partnership. * Avoiding money conversations only adds to the stress—especially in relationships. * Kids can sense financial tension, even if it’s unspoken—so include them. * Family meetings and honest conversations build trust and confidence. * Use resources like podcasts to support your journey toward financial peace. Whether you’re in a relationship, parenting little ones, or just trying to break the cycle of paycheck-to-paycheck living, this episode offers thoughtful, doable steps for anyone ready to shift their money mindset. Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife [https:www.instagram.com/theverymarylife]. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife [https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife]. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com [https://www.theverymarylife.com]