The Mama’s Village Podcast CT

EPISODE 15: Navigating the Sandwich Generation with Alex Agosta

In this episode, Abby sits down with Alex Augusta, a Fairfield real estate agent who found herself thrust into this challenging life stage when her mother's health rapidly declined. After spending a difficult summer managing hospital visits, medical decisions, and endless logistics while raising two children, Alex created "In The Middle CT"—a local community for others facing similar struggles. They discuss the harsh realities most people avoid: understanding insurance coverage, having difficult money conversations, knowing when it's time for assisted living, managing guilt, and simply keeping all the balls in the air. Alex shares practical first steps, from attending doctor appointments with your parents to consulting estate attorneys before crisis hits. Most importantly, they emphasize that you're not alone in this—and it's okay to feel all the complicated emotions that come with watching your parents age while raising your own children. If you're caring for both generations, this honest conversation offers validation, resources, and the reminder that sometimes showing up an hour late to a birthday party is perfectly fine when you're dealing with what really matters.

Episode 14 Breaking the Silence on Money with Michelle Hobart

In this episode of The Mama's Village Podcast - CT, host Abby Hartley speaks with financial advisor Michelle Hobart about the importance of discussing money openly, especially in relationships and with children. They explore the concept of 'money silence' and its impact on personal and familial relationships, as well as practical financial strategies for moms. The conversation also touches on the significance of quality of life versus financial responsibility, and how to teach children about money management. Michelle shares her insights on navigating financial challenges and the importance of acknowledging one's financial story without shame.   * Money silence is a significant issue affecting many relationships. * Discussing finances openly can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts. * The 50, 30, 20 budgeting rule is a helpful guideline for managing finances. * It's important to teach children about money management from a young age. * Sharing financial failures with kids can help them understand the realities of money. * Quality of life should be balanced with financial responsibilities. * Financial literacy is crucial for both parents and children. * Understanding one's money story can lead to better financial decisions. * Money should not define self-worth or happiness. * Open conversations about money can reduce shame and stigma.    CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 02:50 Michelle's Background and Career Journey 05:53 The Importance of Financial Planning 08:54 Fairfield County Hidden Gems 11:51 Diving into Financial Conversations 14:53 Understanding Money Silence 17:53 The Impact of Money on Relationships 20:58 Navigating Financial Conversations in Relationships 23:46 Family Dynamics and Money Discussions 26:29 The Importance of Financial Literacy 28:45 Strategies for Financial Security 30:41 Understanding the 50/30/20 Rule 32:35 Investing and Saving for the Future 36:35 Quality of Life vs. Financial Responsibility 39:42 Teaching Kids About Money 42:21 The Value of Sharing Financial Failures 46:24 Breaking the Stigma Around Financial Conversations

EPISODE 13 Lauren Barnett

In this episode of the Mama's Village Podcast, host Abby Hartley interviews Lauren Barnett, a mental health professional and author of 'Don't Tell My Mom That I Love Her.' They discuss Lauren's journey in the mental health field, her experiences working with adolescents, and the inspiration behind her book. The conversation delves into the challenges of matching clients with therapists, the importance of understanding mother-daughter relationships, and the universal themes of adolescence that resonate with both mothers and daughters. Lauren shares her insights on the struggles of middle school life and the connections that bind generations of women together. The episode also highlights hidden gems in Fairfield County and Lauren's plans for promoting her book.

Episode 12: Ashley Langer

In this episode of the Mama's Village Podcast - CT, host Abby Hartley interviews Ashley Langer, a networking expert and entrepreneur who recently launched a heated vest product called Hot Tommies. Ashley shares her journey from event planning to product development, discusses the importance of building an online community, and offers insights into overcoming challenges as a mom entrepreneur. The conversation also highlights local gems in Fairfield County and the details surrounding Ashley's newest heated vest design.

Episode 11: Dr. Andrea Gillis, DO

In this episode of the Mama's Village Podcast, host Abigail Hartley speaks with Dr. Andrea Gillis, an osteopathic physician, about the unique aspects of family medicine and the holistic approach of osteopathy. They discuss the importance of personalized patient care, the role of manual medicine, and the challenges of misinformation in health. Dr. Gillis shares insights on pregnancy, medication use, and the significance of patient advocacy. The conversation also touches on menopause awareness, lifestyle changes, and the importance of being informed about health decisions.