Self-Care Day Throwback: How Moms Can Take Back Control of Their Sleep

Self-Care Day Throwback: How Moms Can Take Back Control of Their Sleep

We’re turning back the clock for Self Care Day with a special episode with Rebekka Wall to find out how moms (and dads) can sleep better. Rebekka is a certified adult sleep consultant who has helped hundreds of parents get a better night’s sleep. In this episode, host Lalaina Rabary sits down with Rebekka to find out why restful sleep is often out of reach for moms and what can actually help. Together, they discuss the cultural pressures that frame rest as selfish or unproductive, the impact of hypervigilance and anxiety on sleep, and why rest isn’t a luxury but a biological necessity. Rebekka introduces her unique "Triangle Model" for identifying the root causes of sleep struggles, ranging from overlooked sleep hygiene habits to deeper emotional patterns. You’ll get practical, mom-friendly tools to build better routines, create restorative pauses in your day, and balance rest with the demands of parenting and partnership. Learn how to calm your nervous system, use anchor statements and bedtime rituals, and finally get the rest your body and mind deserve. Episode Highlights 01:20: Rebekka's Personal Sleep Insights 03:39: Understanding Rebekka’s Triangle Model for Sleep Issues 06:38: Practical Sleep Hygiene Tips 10:14: Addressing Hyper Vigilance in Moms 13:29: How Anxiety Increases with Lack of Sleep 15:18: Rebekka’s Most Common Sleep Myths 17:56: What is Revenge Bedtime? 19:27: How Rebekka Makes Sure She Gets Rest 21:06: The Role of Restorative Breaks 23:42: Encouragement for New Moms About the Guest: Rebekka Wall Rebekka Wall is a certified adult sleep consultant who helps individuals overcome sleep challenges with personalized, evidence-based strategies and compassionate support. She specializes in improving poor sleep habits and reducing the stress and anxiety often tied to bedtime, empowering clients to wake up feeling rested and recharged. Connect With Us Momcozy Website [https://momcozy.com] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/momcozy] | YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@momcozy] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/momcozy/] Rebekka Wall Website [https://sleepwiseconsulting.com/consultants/adult-rebekka-wall/] About the Podcast: Momcozy Village – Together We Grow Momcozy Village: Together We Grow is a podcast where moms gather to learn, share, and support each other.  Hosted by Natalie Gouché, each episode features inspiring conversations on motherhood—from career transitions to mental health and beyond. Backed by Momcozy, makers of innovative wearable breast pumps and cozy nursing bras, the podcast is part of a movement to empower moms through every phase of early motherhood. Enjoying the Show? Make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode. If you’re enjoying the conversations, consider leaving us a 5-star review—it helps us grow the village and support more moms. Follow Koala Tots for more calming bedtime stories, or listen ad-free with bonus sleepy compilations on Koala Tots Plus  https://koalatots.supercast.com [https://koalatots.supercast.com/]   Narrated by Abbe Opher Music by Sokratis Seirlis Instagram: @koalakids.fm [http://koalakids.fm/]

You Deserve Help at Home: Childcare Wisdom from a VIP Nanny

Nannies work with families all around the world. They often become like family members and give parents the chance to work, unwind, or just enjoy some time alone. But how do you choose between a babysitter, a nanny, or an au pair? In this episode of Momcozy Village: Together We Grow, Natalie Gouché talks with Rebecca Stewart. Rebecca is the founder and owner of VIP Nannies, a Los Angeles agency that serves Oscar winners, pro baseball players, and other well-known clients seeking privacy. Rebecca may work with celebrities, but she still has helpful advice for any mom considering childcare. She explains why taking a night off for a date or time with friends or family can be so valuable. Not everyone needs a full-time nanny, but having regular help can make a big difference. Rebecca also stresses that having regular help on the horizon can do a lot to help with the mental load of motherhood, especially when moms are struggling or need a break. Rebecca also explains how to find the right nanny or babysitter. She covers everything from background checks to positive signs, like someone who loves their job or has stayed in past positions for a long time. She encourages moms to take their time and do their homework to find the best fit for their family. This is NOT something you want to cut corners on - a nanny or babysitter could become a big part of your family, and it’s important to choose the right person. Finally, Rebecca says the first thing moms should do is think about their childcare budget. Childcare can be expensive and finding help isn’t always easy, so it’s important to know what you can afford before you start looking. Episode Highlights 01:19 – What is VIP Nannies, and who are their clients? 02:24 – Rebecca’s experience of needing help after giving birth. 04:14 – The difference between a nanny and a babysitter. 07:08 – What should moms do if they can’t afford a full-time nanny? 09:32 – The less-obvious benefits of hiring childcare help. 10:27 – Red flags when looking for a nanny.  14:54 – Green flags when looking for a nanny. 17:48 – The importance of setting a childcare budget. About the Guest: Rebecca Stewart Rebecca Stewart is the Founder and Owner of VIP Nannies Inc., Los Angeles's premier household staffing agency. Her story began at 24, when losing her nanny job with a high-profile family inspired her to start her own agency. She got a small business loan and launched VIP Nannies with just a phone and a vision. Today, Rebecca works quietly behind the scenes for some of the world’s most well-known families, including Oscar-winning actors, famous '90s pop stars, and Forbes Top 50 families. She has made over 2,500 successful placements and partners with the LA Rams and LA Chargers. Her reputation stands out for two reasons: her strong sense of discretion and her genuine, small-town approach that makes every client feel special. Connect With Us Momcozy Website [https://momcozy.com/?utm_source=Pod-EP25&utm_medium=contents&utm_campaign=Pod-EP25] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/momcozy] | YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@momcozy] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/momcozy/] Rebecca Stewart VIP Nannies’ Website [https://www.vipnannyagency.com/] About the Podcast: Momcozy Village – Together We Grow Momcozy Village: Together We Grow is a podcast where moms gather to learn, share, and support each other. Hosted by Natalie Gouché, each episode features inspiring conversations on motherhood: from career transitions to mental health and beyond. Backed by Momcozy, makers of innovative wearable breast pumps and cozy nursing bras, the podcast is part of a movement to empower moms through every phase of early motherhood. Enjoying the Show?  Subscribe so you never miss an episode. If you’re enjoying the conversations, consider leaving us a 5-star review—it helps us grow the village and support more moms. Follow Koala Tots for more calming bedtime stories, or listen ad-free with bonus sleepy compilations on Koala Tots Plus  https://koalatots.supercast.com [https://koalatots.supercast.com/]   Narrated by Abbe Opher Music by Sokratis Seirlis Instagram: @koalakids.fm [http://koalakids.fm/]

Father’s Day Throwback: Breaking Generational Curses with dopedad_e

We’re turning back the clock for Father’s Day with a special episode with Eric Taylor (dope_dad_e). Many dads struggle with the responsibilities of fatherhood, leaving moms to shoulder the burden alone. How can dads break these curses? With his viral ‘dusty son’ trend featured on The Sherri Show, Buzzfeed, and Good Morning America, Eric has become a powerful voice around breaking generational curses, loving with intention, and raising kids with purpose. Eric opens up about what “dusty” really means, sharing his own evolution from dusty habits to intentional fatherhood. He reflects on how growing up without a father, living through addiction, and learning from his wife’s example helped him step into the husband and dad he wants to be. The conversation also explores the loneliness men often face in fatherhood, the shifting of friendships and relationships when kids come along, and the courage it takes to ask: ‘Who do I want to be for my partner, my children, and myself?’ Episode Highlights 00:55 – Why Eric got into social media to share his message. 02:19 – What is a ‘dusty’ son? 04:50 – Eric’s experiences of his shortcomings as a husband and dad. 06:17 – What are generational curses? 10:19 – Can you train yourself to be a good father or partner? 12:28 – How do dads experience loneliness? 16:23 – How does friendship work in dad circles? 17:53 – What questions do moms ask Eric? 21:01 – Moms need to let dads do their part. 23:13 – Men hate to feel stupid 24:12  – Parents need to start saying what they need. 24:12  – Eric’s final thoughts. About the Guest: Eric Taylor (dopedad_e) Eric Taylor is a parenting and marriage content creator known as dopedad_e on social media. Eric creates relatable parenting and relationship content for his community of nearly 300k followers, emphasizing breaking generational curses, loving your spouse with power, and raising your children with purpose. He has collaborated with brands like Sour Patch Kids, Play-Doh, Dave’s Killer Bread, and Time 4 Learning. In 2023, his ‘Dusty Son’ viral trend was featured on The Sherri Show, Buzzfeed, and Good Morning America, and his content has been further featured in publications like Parents and Goodful. Connect With Us Momcozy Website [https://momcozy.com/?utm_source=Pod-EP24&utm_medium=contents&utm_campaign=Pod-EP24] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/momcozy] | YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@momcozy] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/momcozy/] Lalaina Rabary LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lalainarabary/] Eric Taylor Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/dopedad_e/?hl=en] | Website [https://www.thekingdomfam.com/] About the Podcast: Momcozy Village – Together We Grow Momcozy Village: Together We Grow is a podcast where moms gather to learn, share, and support each other. Hosted by Lalaina Rabary, each episode features inspiring conversations on motherhood: from career transitions to mental health and beyond. Backed by Momcozy, makers of innovative wearable breast pumps and cozy nursing bras, the podcast is part of a movement to empower moms through every phase of early motherhood. Enjoying the Show? Make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode. If you’re enjoying the conversations, consider leaving us a 5-star review—it helps us grow the village and support more moms. Follow Koala Tots for more calming bedtime stories, or listen ad-free with bonus sleepy compilations on Koala Tots Plus  https://koalatots.supercast.com [https://koalatots.supercast.com/]   Narrated by Abbe Opher Music by Sokratis Seirlis Instagram: @koalakids.fm [http://koalakids.fm/]

Are You Here?: Parenting Through Grief with Jenny Robinson Clark

Losing a parent is always hard. But, how do you talk to your kids about grief while also trying to heal yourself? In this episode of Momcozy Village: Together We Grow, Natalie Gouché chats with actress and author Jenny Robinson Clark about loss, parenting through grief, and what led her to write her children’s book Are You Here?. Jenny talks about losing her mother in 2018 and a powerful moment that began her healing. She woke up at 3:00 AM and felt her mom was speaking to her. What began as song lyrics she wrote with her husband, Travis Clark, later became a children’s book about noticing the special ways our loved ones stay with us. Jenny shares what it was like to grieve while raising young kids, how she moved through the stages of grief, and the habits that helped her find peace again. She mentions meditation, prayer, journaling, and even talking to her mom every day, showing that remembering loved ones can be part of daily life. Jenny also talks about being open with her kids about emotions, helping them be curious about death rather than scared, and allowing both joy and grief to coexist.  Overall, Jenny thinks that going through grief has made her a more communicative, conscious parent who is able to talk to her children about difficult topics and help them grow. Episode Highlights 01:12 – What is Are You Here? about and why did Jenny write it? 03:49 – Trying something new during every pregnancy. 06:49 – The dreams, desires, and purpose outside of pregnancy. 07:44 – How Jenny kept parenting through her grief. 10:25 – Connecting with a loved one when they’re no longer there. 12:20 – Jenny’s children were part of her grief process.  17:44 – What Jenny wishes every parent knew about grief. 21:02 –  How grief changed Jenny’s parenting style. About the Guest: Jenny Robinson Clark Jenny Robinson Clark is a believer in the enduring power of love and the magical signs all around us. The first draft of Are You Here? was written in the wee hours of the morning in a season of grief after the passing of her mom, Gigi. Her husband, Travis, turned Gigi's message into a hit song and then encouraged her to develop it into a children's book. Prior to her life as a mom/author/entrepreneur, she was a dancer and actor in California.  With a lot of faith and courage, Jenny and Travis relocated the family from Orlando, FL to Nashville, TN to build a creative life with their four children. Through storytelling and song, they hope to offer comfort to anyone who has deeply missed someone and still longs to feel close. Jenny Robinson was an actor known for Meet the Spartans, Iron Man 2, and Burlesque. She has been married to Travis Clark of the band We The Kings since December 30, 2014. Connect With Us Momcozy Website [https://momcozy.com/?utm_source=Pod-EP25&utm_medium=contents&utm_campaign=Pod-EP25] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/momcozy] | YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@momcozy] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/momcozy/] | Mother’s Day Sale  [https://momcozy.com/pages/mothers-day-sale] Jenny Robinson Clark Website [https://www.jennyrobinsonclark.com/] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/jennyrobinsonclark/?hl=en] About the Podcast: Momcozy Village – Together We Grow Momcozy Village: Together We Grow is a podcast where moms gather to learn, share, and support each other. Hosted by Natalie Gouché, each episode features inspiring conversations on motherhood: from career transitions to mental health and beyond. Backed by Momcozy, makers of innovative wearable breast pumps and cozy nursing bras, the podcast is part of a movement to empower moms through every phase of early motherhood. Enjoying the Show?  Subscribe so you never miss an episode. If you’re enjoying the conversations, consider leaving us a 5-star review—it helps us grow the village and support more moms. Follow Koala Tots for more calming bedtime stories, or listen ad-free with bonus sleepy compilations on Koala Tots Plus  https://koalatots.supercast.com [https://koalatots.supercast.com/]   Narrated by Abbe Opher Music by Sokratis Seirlis Instagram: @koalakids.fm [http://koalakids.fm/]

When Motherhood Feels Heavy: Getting Help for Postpartum Depression

Mental health challenges are the most common complication during pregnancy and after childbirth, affecting at least one in five women. Even so, many mothers find it hard to tell when their feelings go beyond just normal tiredness. How can parents tell the difference, and where can they get help? In this episode of Momcozy Village: Together We Grow, host Natalie Gouché talks with Adrienne Griffen, Executive Director of the Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance. Adrienne shares her own experience with postpartum depression, including the challenges of getting care while raising both a toddler and a newborn. Adrienne explains that mental health screening should happen more than once, during pregnancy, around childbirth, and throughout the postpartum period. She talks about how joy and overwhelm can exist together, but when depression or anxiety start to outweigh joy, it’s important to notice.  She also points out that if thoughts become overwhelming, like feeling unable to keep going, it may be time to reach out for support.  They also discuss the biological and life stress factors that can affect a mother’s mental health. Adrienne explains why planning ahead for the postpartum period and building a support system early are important. Episode Highlights 01:13 – Adrienne’s experience with postpartum depression 02:45  – How common are postpartum mood disorders? 05:05  –  How to tell the difference between normal exhaustion and something more. 08:25  –  What are the biggest factors that contribute to postpartum mood disorders? 10:56  – Adrienne’s experience of running support groups. 15:27  – The first steps in getting support. 19:17  – What does treatment for postpartum mood disorders look like? 21:22  – What if someone is on the fence about getting support? About the Guest: Adrienne Griffen Adrienne is an advocate and subject-matter expert in maternal mental health.  Prior to joining MMHLA, Adrienne founded Postpartum Support Virginia and served as executive director for 10 years, establishing a statewide network of peer-led support groups, creating educational programs for mental health providers and maternal-child healthcare professionals, and helping to pass legislation requiring that information about postpartum depression and anxiety be provided to new mothers.  About MMHLA: The Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance (MMHLA) is a 501(c) (3) nonpartisan nonprofit organization leading national efforts to improve maternal mental health in the United States by advocating for policies, building partnerships, and curating information. Connect With Us Momcozy Website [https://momcozy.com/?utm_source=Pod-EP25&utm_medium=contents&utm_campaign=Pod-EP25] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/momcozy] | YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@momcozy] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/momcozy/] Adrienne Griffen LinkedIn [http://linkedin.com/in/adrienne-griffen-9668523b] | https://www.facebook.com/momcozyMMHLA Website [https://www.mmhla.org/] | National Maternal Mental Health Hotline [https://mchb.hrsa.gov/programs-impact/national-maternal-mental-health-hotline] (1-833-TLC-MAMA) About the Podcast: Momcozy Village – Together We Grow Momcozy Village: Together We Grow is a podcast where moms gather to learn, share, and support each other. Hosted by Natalie Gouché, each episode features inspiring conversations on motherhood: from career transitions to mental health and beyond. Backed by Momcozy, makers of innovative wearable breast pumps and cozy nursing bras, the podcast is part of a movement to empower moms through every phase of early motherhood. Enjoying the Show?  Subscribe so you never miss an episode. If you’re enjoying the conversations, consider leaving us a 5-star review—it helps us grow the village and support more moms. Follow Koala Tots for more calming bedtime stories, or listen ad-free with bonus sleepy compilations on Koala Tots Plus  https://koalatots.supercast.com [https://koalatots.supercast.com/]   Narrated by Abbe Opher Music by Sokratis Seirlis Instagram: @koalakids.fm [http://koalakids.fm/]