S2: Episode 22: Finding Humor in Life’s Plot Twists

S2: Episode 22: Finding Humor in Life’s Plot Twists

In this episode of Struggle Out Loud, Sammi sits down with Danielle Frank, author of A Wine Lover’s Guide to Parenting, for a conversation about pivots, unexpected timelines, and learning to embrace the life you didn’t originally plan for. After more than twenty years in the wine and spirits industry, Danielle took a leap into writing, sharing honest reflections on perfectionism, reinvention, relationships, and finding humor in life’s chaos. We talk about career changes, identity shifts, embracing what she calls “auntie life,” and why some of the most meaningful transformations happen when life takes an unexpected turn. This episode is funny, reflective, honest, and such a good reminder that fulfillment doesn’t have to fit one perfect timeline. https://amzn.to/43op227 - Grab the Book!

S2: Episode 21: Inner Child Work and Healing Postpartum

In this episode of Struggle Out Loud, Sammi and Alexa sit down with Ashley from The Seed Within Therapy for a deeper conversation on healing, self-awareness, and the patterns we carry with us. We talk about what inner child work really means, how early experiences shape the way we show up in our lives today, and what it looks like to start healing without judgment. Ashley also shares how her approach to therapy has evolved, along with powerful tools like bibliotherapy and even how lyrics and storytelling can help us better understand ourselves. This episode is about slowing down, looking inward, and beginning the work of reconnecting with who you really are. If you’ve ever felt stuck in patterns you can’t explain or like you’re reacting from something deeper, this conversation is for you. Find her here: https://www.instagram.com/theseedwithintherapy/ [https://www.instagram.com/theseedwithintherapy/]

S2: Episode 20: Sleep, Postpartum & Building a Business

In this episode of Struggle Out Loud, Sammi and Alexa sit down with Melissa from Rested Little Nest to talk all things postpartum, baby sleep, and what it really looks like to build a business while raising two little ones. Melissa shares how becoming a mom inspired her to start her sleep consulting business, the realities of balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship, and why postpartum moms need support beyond just “getting through the night.” We also dive into a big misconception around sleep training — sleep training does not automatically mean cry it out, and Melissa shares how she supports families with gentle, responsive approaches that align with their parenting style. If you’re a postpartum mom running on empty and wondering what sleep support can actually look like, tune in for more https://www.instagram.com/restedlittlenest/ [https://www.instagram.com/restedlittlenest/]

S2: Episode 19: Motherhood & Becoming a Creator with Mady

In this episode of Struggle Out Loud, we sit down with Mady from @mady.motherhood to talk about creativity, motherhood, and the reality behind sharing life online. If you follow Mady, you’ve probably seen her sensory bags, holiday crafts, and simple play ideas that make everyday moments with kids feel special. But behind those creative ideas is a mom balancing work, raising kids, and navigating the identity shifts that come with motherhood. We talk about where her inspiration comes from, how motherhood unlocked a new creative side of her, what it’s really like becoming a content creator, and the balance of building something while still being present with your family. This episode is a reminder that motherhood doesn’t have to be perfect — sometimes it’s just about creating small moments that matter.

S2: Episode 18: The Strength of a Heart Mom with Lauren Godden

In this episode of Struggle Out Loud, we sit down with Lauren Godden to talk about a side of motherhood no one prepares you for... being a heart mom. Lauren recently began sharing her journey online, opening up about her child’s heart condition, surgeries, hospital stays, and the emotional strength it takes to walk that path. In this conversation, she shares what it felt like to receive the diagnosis, how she navigates fear while staying strong for her family, and why she chose to share her story publicly. This episode is about resilience, vulnerability, and the kind of love that grows in the hardest seasons. Whether you’re a heart mom, a medical mom, or simply navigating a season you never expected, Lauren’s story will remind you that you are not alone.