No One Told Us

Rachael Shepard-Ohta

No One Told Us the truth about parenthood. WHY?! Welcome to No One Told Us, the podcast where we uncover the raw, unfiltered truths about parenthood. I'm your host, Rachael Shepard-Ohta, mom of three and founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby. Each week, join me as we dive deep into the joys, challenges, and surprises of raising children with a mix of expert insights, personal anecdotes, and candid conversations. From navigating postpartum anxiety to mastering the art of making mom friends, and from introducing solids to tackling tantrums, we cover it all. Whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned pro, this podcast is your go-to resource for honest advice, relatable stories, and plenty of laughs along the way. Join me as I sit down with experts in their fields, as well as friends, family, celebrities, and influencers, to share their experiences and wisdom on everything from sleepless nights to rocky relationships. No topic is off-limits, and no story goes untold on No One Told Us. So grab a cup of coffee, pop in your headphones and join the conversation. This is the podcast everyone needed before they had kids- because now that those little ones are here, there's a lot to unpack. So let's pull back the curtain on becoming a first-time mom (or dad!) to share the good, the bad and the ugly. A little education, a little fun, and a whole lot of heart goes into each and every episode of No One Told Us to have you feeling less alone and way more empowered.

  1. 1d ago

    Episode 110: Parenting the Spicy Kid with Mary Van Geffen

    What does it really mean to parent a “spicy” kid? In this episode, Rachael sits down with parenting expert and author Mary Van Geffen to talk about strong-willed, sensitive, and neurodivergent children and what parents can do when everyday parenting feels especially challenging. Together, they discuss emotional regulation, parenting shame, boundaries, meltdowns, bedtime struggles, and the importance of doing our own inner work. Mary shares practical tools and compassionate strategies for staying connected to your child while also learning how to regulate yourself, repair after hard moments, and parent with more confidence. Inside this episode: What makes a child “spicy” and how to understand their unique temperament Why parental self-regulation is one of the most important parenting tools How childhood experiences can shape the way we parent Navigating neurodivergence, diagnosis, and finding the right support Practical strategies for managing meltdowns, tantrums, and big emotions How routine, predictability, and connection can help sensitive kids thrive  Setting firm boundaries while staying kind and connect  The role of self-compassion, repair, and doing your own inner work And so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Parenting a Spicy One by Mary Van Geffen Mary Van Geffen on Instagram Mary Van Geffen on TikTok If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  2. Aug 13

    Episode 109: Parenting Wisdom from Around the World with Michaeleen Doucleff

    What if many of the things we believe about parenting aren't actually universal? In this episode, Rachael sits down with journalist and author Dr. Michaeleen Doucleff to explore what different cultures around the world can teach us about raising children, building strong family relationships, and rethinking some of our most deeply held parenting beliefs. Together, they discuss parenting myths, child development, autonomy, screen time, dopamine, sleep, and what it can look like to approach family life with more respect, connection, and trust. Inside this episode: Why so many common parenting practices aren't universal What different cultures can teach us about raising children The importance of respect, autonomy, and contribution in child development How dopamine actually affects motivation and screen time Rethinking the way we approach sleep and separation How to build stronger, more connected parent-child relationships Practical ways to encourage independence and healthy motivation And so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Hunt, Gather, Parent by Michaeleen Doucleff Dopamine Kids by Michaeleen Doucleff Michaeleen Doucleff's website If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  3. Jul 30

    Episode 107: The Parenting Advice We Need to Unlearn with Fiona Weaver

    What if the hardest part of parenting isn't your child's sleep, but the pressure to do everything "right"? In this episode, Rachael sits down with parenting educator and maternal mental health advocate Fiona Weaver for an honest conversation about the parenting advice we may need to unlearn. Together, they discuss the myths surrounding sleep training and independence, why "good enough" parenting is actually the goal, and how societal expectations can fuel mom guilt and self-doubt. Fiona also shares her experience parenting three children, navigating toddler sleep challenges, and embracing a more flexible, compassionate approach that supports both children and their parents. Whether you're questioning the parenting advice you've been given or simply looking for reassurance that you're doing enough, this episode offers practical wisdom, encouragement, and a refreshing perspective on modern motherhood. Inside this episode: Why "good enough" parenting is the gold standard Common myths about sleep training and infant independence The emotional and developmental needs of children How societal expectations contribute to mom guilt and shame Why you can't hang your mood on your baby's sleep The connection between infant sleep and maternal mental health Letting go of rigid sleep tracking and unrealistic expectations Building stronger family relationships through flexibility and connection How community and support can transform the parenting experience And so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Mama Matters website Fiona Weaver on Instagram If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  4. Jul 23

    Episode 106: Rethinking Baby Sleep: A Holistic Approach with Dr. Pamela Douglas

    What if your baby's sleep challenges weren't something to fix but a clue to better understanding their unique needs? In this episode, Rachael sits down with physician, researcher, and founder of the Possums Program, Dr. Pamela Douglas, to explore a holistic, evidence-based approach to infant sleep, feeding, and development. Together, they discuss why sleep, feeding, sensory development, and emotional well-being are deeply connected, how societal pressures can increase stress for parents, and why responsive, flexible caregiving often leads to better outcomes for the whole family. Whether you're navigating an unsettled baby or simply looking for a gentler approach to infant sleep, this episode offers practical, reassuring guidance. Inside this episode: Why sleep, feeding, and sensory development are all connected The philosophy behind the Possums approach to infant care The five domains that can contribute to an unsettled baby Common myths about overstimulation and baby sleep Why outdoor play and sensory experiences support healthy development How parental stress can impact the parenting experience Practical ways to respond to your baby's unique cues Why flexibility…not rigid routines…helps families thrive And so much more! Mentioned in this episode: The Discontented Little Baby Book by Dr. Pamela Douglas Possums Program If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  5. Jul 16

    Episode 105: Dad Brain Explained: The Science of Fatherhood with Dr. Darby Saxbe

    What if becoming a dad changes the brain just as much as becoming a mom? In this episode, Rachael sits down with psychologist, researcher, and author Dr. Darby Saxbe to explore the science behind "dad brain," how fatherhood reshapes the brain, and why great parenting is built through experience, not instinct. Together, they discuss the neurological changes fathers experience during the transition to parenthood, the importance of paternity leave and hands-on caregiving, and how supporting dads benefits the entire family. Whether you're a new parent or expecting a baby, this conversation will change the way you think about fatherhood. Inside this episode: What "dad brain" really is and how fatherhood changes the brain Why great parents are made…not born The truth about maternal and paternal instinct How paternity leave supports dads, babies, and families Why hands-on parenting builds confidence and stronger attachment The role of maternal gatekeeping and working as a team The importance of supporting dads' mental health How couples can better navigate the postpartum transition And so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Dad Brain by Dr. Darby Saxbe Natal Gazing on Substack  @Darbysaxbe  If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  6. Jul 9

    Episode 104: Mom Brain Explained: The Science of the Postpartum Brain with Dr. Nikki Pensak

    What if "mom brain" isn't something to laugh off, but evidence that your brain is undergoing one of the biggest transformations of your life? In this episode, Rachael sits down with clinical psychologist and author Dr. Nikki Pensak to explore the science behind the postpartum brain, why anxiety is so common after having a baby, and what every mother deserves to know about her mental health. Together, they unpack the brain changes that occur during motherhood, why maternal instinct isn't as automatic as we're often told, and how sleep deprivation, stress, and trauma can shape the postpartum experience. Dr. Pensak also shares why healing is possible, how mothers can recognize when they need support, and the hope that can come through post-traumatic growth. Inside this episode: What "mom brain" really is and why it happens How neuroplasticity reshapes the brain during motherhood Why postpartum anxiety is so common and often overlooked The myth of maternal instinct and what actually builds confidence as a parent How stress and sleep deprivation affect the maternal brain Understanding birth trauma and the possibility of post-traumatic growth Signs it may be time to seek support for postpartum anxiety or depression Why self-care is a vital part of maternal mental health How social media can impact new moms….for better and for worse Dr. Nikki's inspiration for writing Rattled and helping mothers feel less alone And so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Rattled by Dr. Nikki Pensak If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  7. Jul 2

    Episode 103: Parenting Around the World with Elodie Ferchaud 

    What if raising your kids didn't have to look like everyone else's? In this episode, Rachael sits down with entrepreneur and Boundless Life founder Elodie Ferchaud for a conversation about choosing a different path, raising resilient kids, and creating a family life that feels aligned with your values…not someone else's expectations. From leaving the corporate world to raising four children while living around the globe, Elodie shares how travel has changed the way she parents, why she's become a more relaxed mom over the years, and what different cultures have taught her about childhood, education, and community. Whether you're dreaming of worldschooling or simply looking for inspiration to parent more intentionally, this episode will leave you thinking differently about what family life can look like. Inside this episode: Why Elodie left the corporate world to build a life of more freedom and flexibility How parenting four kids has shifted her perspective over the years What different cultures can teach us about raising children How travel helps kids build confidence, resilience, and independence The surprising ways parenting support looks different around the world What inspired Elodie to create Boundless Life Rethinking school, learning, and what children really need to thrive The power of community, especially when you're far from home Why stepping outside your comfort zone can transform your family How to create a life that feels intentional, connected, and true to your values And so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Boundless Life Montessori Method If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

5
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About

No One Told Us the truth about parenthood. WHY?! Welcome to No One Told Us, the podcast where we uncover the raw, unfiltered truths about parenthood. I'm your host, Rachael Shepard-Ohta, mom of three and founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby. Each week, join me as we dive deep into the joys, challenges, and surprises of raising children with a mix of expert insights, personal anecdotes, and candid conversations. From navigating postpartum anxiety to mastering the art of making mom friends, and from introducing solids to tackling tantrums, we cover it all. Whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned pro, this podcast is your go-to resource for honest advice, relatable stories, and plenty of laughs along the way. Join me as I sit down with experts in their fields, as well as friends, family, celebrities, and influencers, to share their experiences and wisdom on everything from sleepless nights to rocky relationships. No topic is off-limits, and no story goes untold on No One Told Us. So grab a cup of coffee, pop in your headphones and join the conversation. This is the podcast everyone needed before they had kids- because now that those little ones are here, there's a lot to unpack. So let's pull back the curtain on becoming a first-time mom (or dad!) to share the good, the bad and the ugly. A little education, a little fun, and a whole lot of heart goes into each and every episode of No One Told Us to have you feeling less alone and way more empowered.

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