Mama’s Gonna Make It — 46. Find Your Birth Vibe: Advocacy, Agency & the Birth You Didn’t Plan with Jen Hamilton

Mama’s Gonna Make It — 50.

This week on Mama’s Gonna Make It, Sarabeth, Anne, and Producer Tim dive into the wild world of traveling with kids, from Disney planning and overpacked suitcases to unexpected memory-making moments, bed bug paranoia, and audiobook mishaps at the mechanic. Anne shares stories from an epic multi-stop family/work trip involving galas, beaches, Disney, and a Georgia farm… all packed into one oversized suitcase she immediately regretted bringing. The conversation quickly turns into a real-life survival guide for parents trying to vacation with little ones while keeping everyone fed, clothed, entertained, and emotionally stable. Spoiler alert: as one wise friend put it, “With young children, you don’t take vacations. You take trips.” In this episode: * Why lowering expectations can actually save your trip * Packing strategies that make travel less stressful * The genius of “go bags” and dedicated travel chargers * Traveling with babies vs. older kids * Budget-friendly ways to create “magic” family memories * Practical bed bug precautions for hotels and rentals * Medication and emergency travel prep tips * Why kids remember the most random traditions forever * The accidental Bluetooth audiobook story that absolutely sent everyone over the edge Whether you’re planning a big Disney adventure, a quick mountain cabin getaway, or just trying to survive travel with toddlers, this episode is full of practical advice, solidarity, and plenty of laughs. Connect with us: Follow along on Instagram and Facebook at @mamasgonnamakeit Recorded in the Such-N-Such Media Studios at Liberty Plaza in downtown Winston-Salem, we are produced by Tim Beeman for Such-N-Such Media [https://suchnsuchmedianc.com/]. Theme music is by Doug Davis [https://dougdavis.ws/home]. Love what you hear? Donate in any amount to support our podcast [http://coff.ee/mamasgonnamakeit] or via LinkTree in bio coff.ee/mamasgonnamakeit [http://coff.ee/mamasgonnamakeit]

Mama’s Gonna Make It — 49. Creativity Crisis

For the record, Anne and Sarabeth believe in the power of creative energy and agree that it is fundamentally important for people to have creative outlets. From there, we enjoyed pushing back on each other in this funny and somewhat philosophical conversation about why we create art, literature, or music—and how to encourage that practice in ourselves, each other, and our kiddos. True to her Type 4, creative, and introspective self, Sarabeth embraces the whimsy of creating for the sake of creativity, validating the practice as worthwhile no matter the outcome or any external need to justify participation. Meanwhile, the very orderly Type 1 (honestly, our offline prep conversation sealed the deal on Anne’s self-identity as an Enneagram 1!) embraces creativity too—but firmly plants her flag in the belief that it is always serving a purpose. It wouldn’t be Mama’s Gonna Make It without some side quests, so we naturally also discussed hormone cycles, an awkward dermatologist visit, and more! Come along for the ride and laugh with us as we dive into the power of creative expression to heal, to hope, to resist, to relax, to connect, to celebrate, and to just… exist. Recorded in the Such-N-Such Media Studios at Liberty Plaza in downtown Winston-Salem, we are produced by Tim Beeman for Such-N-Such Media [https://suchnsuchmedianc.com/]. Theme music is by Doug Davis [https://dougdavis.ws/home]. Love what you hear? Donate in any amount to support our podcast [http://coff.ee/mamasgonnamakeit] or via LinkTree in bio coff.ee/mamasgonnamakeit [http://coff.ee/mamasgonnamakeit]

Mama’s Gonna Make It — 48. Choosing Change: Money, Motherhood, & Major Life Moves

In this episode, Anne shares about a recent job opportunity and how difficult it was to weigh all the pros and cons of change—not only for herself, but for how it could impact her family unit. She polled the mom-chat, talked with family and friends, and ultimately received some incredibly illuminating advice from two trusted professionals in her life: a financial advisor and a college friend who is now a career coach.  Making potentially life-altering decisions is hard. Whether it’s related to health, finance, or any other major life thread, it can be scary, too. Anne and Sarabeth dive into the ways we process change and opportunity—and into our own struggles with money. Money isn’t everything… but it sure does matter. And for those of us with executive function challenges or other hurdles in place, shame can take up precious space and energy. To help, we call Isabel Sanchez, Sarabeth’s personal finance coach from MES Financial Coachign, for practical advice on managing money, strategies for long-term success, and what it really takes to embrace our own financial wellness. Some of these ideas may sound familiar, but maybe you haven’t  applied them to your finances before. Do you have a framework for making big decisions or managing your family budget? Tune in, and let us know what you think on our socials! @mamasgonnamakeit Links:  Isabel Sanchez of MES Financial Coaching * Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/mesfinancialcoaching/] * Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mesfinancialcoaching/] * Email: mesfinancialcoaching@gmail.com [mesfinancialcoaching@gmail.com]  Carmen Silva Thomas – Career Coach [https://www.beverlyandsadler.com/#carmen] Sean Click – Edward Jones financial advisor [https://www.edwardjones.com/us-en/financial-advisor/sean-click], LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-click/] Recorded in the Such-N-Such Media Studios at Liberty Plaza in downtown Winston-Salem, we are produced by Tim Beeman for Such-N-Such Media [https://suchnsuchmedianc.com/]. Theme music is by Doug Davis [https://dougdavis.ws/home]. Love what you hear? Donate in any amount to support our podcast [http://coff.ee/mamasgonnamakeit] or via LinkTree in bio coff.ee/mamasgonnamakeit [http://coff.ee/mamasgonnamakeit]

Mama’s Gonna Make It — 47. Friendship Chat with Jen Hamilton: The Real-Life Edition

Last time we had Jen Hamilton on, we talked all things nursing, advocacy, and her book Birth Vibes. This time? We’re just… hanging out. And honestly, it might be our favorite kind of episode. Jen is back in the studio and bringing her full, beautifully chaotic, joy-filled life with her. From raising indoor chickens (yes, diapers included) to navigating social media with millions of followers, to building a nonprofit that’s helping moms across the country—this conversation is equal parts hilarious, heartfelt, and deeply grounding. We talk about: * What it actually looks like to “have it all” (hint: it’s messy and wonderful) * Why Jen refuses to fit into a single “niche” online—and why you don’t have to either * The behind-the-scenes of her social media presence (and how she keeps it sustainable) * Parenting in the teenage years + navigating intrusive thoughts  * Dream vacations (cruise people vs. not cruise people 👀) * Using your platform for good—even when it makes people uncomfortable * Letting people misunderstand you and calling that freedom We also dive into Jen’s nonprofit, Hot Mess Express, and how one Facebook post turned into a nationwide movement helping overwhelmed moms reset their homes—and their nervous systems—with zero judgment and lots of love. And because we like to keep it real around here, we wrap with some honest confessions about the not-so-polished parts of life (forgotten Valentines, messy houses, and struggling to shower… you know, the usual). This episode feels like sitting on the couch with friends—laughing, learning, and reminding each other that we’re all just doing the best we can. Recorded in the Such-N-Such Media Studios at Liberty Plaza in downtown Winston-Salem, we are produced by Tim Beeman for Such-N-Such Media [https://suchnsuchmedianc.com/]. Theme music is by Doug Davis [https://dougdavis.ws/home]. Love what you hear? Donate in any amount to support our podcast [http://coff.ee/mamasgonnamakeit] or via LinkTree in bio coff.ee/mamasgonnamakeit [http://coff.ee/mamasgonnamakeit]

Mama’s Gonna Make It — 46. Find Your Birth Vibe: Advocacy, Agency & the Birth You Didn’t Plan with Jen Hamilton

Sometimes the most powerful preparation isn’t for the birth you want—it’s for the one you might actually have.  This week, we host labor & delivery nurse, advocate, and author Jen Hamilton to talk about her debut book Birth Vibes—and wow…we were not emotionally prepared (in the best way). Birth Vibes fills the void between books that explain pregnancy and parenting books. That between space? Actually bringing  your baby into the world? THIS IS THE BOOK to help you prepare for the decisions you may need to make in those important, and sometimes scary, moments.   As a nurse, Jen has spent over a decade in ER and obstetrics, supporting families through some of the most vulnerable, intense, and life-changing moments imaginable. In this conversation, she shares how her concept of “birth vibes”—a blend of your values, preferences, and vision—can help you advocate for yourself and feel grounded, even when things don’t go according to plan. We talk about: * Why informed consent is more than just a signature—it’s true understanding * How nurses (and patients) can balance information without overwhelm * The importance of connection before checklists in medical spaces * What it actually looks like to advocate for patients—even when it’s uncomfortable * The reality of systemic racism in maternal healthcare and why it must be addressed * Preparing not just for your ideal birth—but for the unexpected, too Jen also shares behind-the-scenes stories from writing her book (including what didn’t make it in), how her own birth experience shaped her work, and why honoring all birth stories—including loss—was non-negotiable. And we have to say…this book unlocked something for us. Whether you’re currently pregnant, supporting someone who is, or still processing a past birth experience—this conversation (and Jen’s work) offers language, clarity, and a whole lot of healing. This episode is for: * Expectant parents * Birth partners and support people * Anyone who has ever had a complicated or confusing birth experience * Healthcare providers who want to lead with more compassion and connection * Anyone who loves Jen Hamilton’s humor and voice  Because at the end of the day, this isn’t just about birth—it’s about being seen, heard, and respected in your most vulnerable moments. Links: Purchase Birth Vibes [https://bookshop.org/p/books/birth-vibes-what-every-parent-deserves-in-the-delivery-room-and-beyond-jen-hamilton/837dbeda02b92d2b?ean=9781538771471&next=t]Jen Hamilton Website [https://www.jenhamilton.co/]Jen Insta [http://www.instagram.com/_jen_hamilton_], TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@_jen_hamilton_?lang=en], Youtube [https://www.youtube.com/@jenhamilton] Recorded in the Such-N-Such Media Studios at Liberty Plaza in downtown Winston-Salem, we are produced by Tim Beeman for Such-N-Such Media [https://suchnsuchmedianc.com/]. Theme music is by Doug Davis [https://dougdavis.ws/home]. Love what you hear? Donate in any amount to support our podcast [http://coff.ee/mamasgonnamakeit] or via LinkTree in bio coff.ee/mamasgonnamakeit [http://coff.ee/mamasgonnamakeit]