More than Milestones

Kaitlin Rickerd
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  • Parenting

Hosted by pediatric physical therapist, wife and mom of three, Dr. KC Rickerd, More Than Milestones is the podcast that goes beyond baby checklists and dives deep into real motherhood, real development, real relationships, and everything in between. Whether you’re supporting your baby’s motor development, navigating big kid emotions, or navigating a new stage of life & parenting, this show blends expert-backed education with the honest, unfiltered reality of motherhood. Each week, KC brings you conversations with trusted professionals—pediatricians, therapists, sleep and feeding experts, mental health pros, and more—plus raw, relatable stories from fellow moms and caregivers. No pressure to be perfect. Just honest conversations, support, humor, and community for the journey you’re on. If you're looking for clarity, connection, and a reminder that while supporting our children’s development is important, so is supporting ourselves - you’re in the right place, because it’s always more than milestones.

  1. 3 days ago

    41. Raising a Highly Sensitive Child: The Neuroscience of Big Feelings with Dr. Aoife Durcan

    Raising highly sensitive children: the neuroscience of big feelings, co-regulation, and supporting sensitive kids. In this episode of More Than Milestones, I am joined by Dr. Aoife Durcan, chartered counseling psychologist, author of Your Highly Sensitive Child, and founder of Highly Sensitive Psychologist, to explore what it really means to raise a highly sensitive child. Roughly 30% of children are born with a finely tuned nervous system that processes the world more deeply, feels emotions more intensely, and is more attuned to subtle changes in their environment. Drawing on both her clinical work and her experience parenting three highly sensitive boys, Dr. Durcan breaks down the neuroscience behind sensory processing sensitivity and offers compassionate, practical guidance for parents who feel like their child experiences everything more. Together, we talk about why some babies are so hard to soothe and what that means for postpartum mental health, the difference between high sensitivity and neurodivergence, and why co-regulation matters so much for these kids. We also get into emotional dysregulation, the "window of tolerance," holding boundaries without breaking connection, and how supporting a sensitive child early builds confident, self-assured adults. If you are a highly sensitive parent, raising a deeply feeling child, or simply trying to understand the big emotions in your home, this conversation will leave you feeling seen, validated, and equipped. In this episode, we cover: What sensory processing sensitivity actually is, from a neuroscience perspectiveWhy roughly 30% of kids are born highly sensitiveHow high sensitivity shows up in babies and what it means for postpartum mental healthThe difference between high sensitivity and neurodivergence (and why the distinction matters)Why co-regulation is so important for a highly sensitive childUnderstanding the "window of tolerance" and emotional dysregulationHow to become a "sensory detective" for your child and yourselfSetting and holding boundaries without harming connectionWhy supporting sensitive kids early builds confident, resilient adultsNeuroplasticity, repair, and why it is never too late to change your approachThe number one thing every parent of a sensitive child should knowSensitivity is not a weakness to fix. It is a trait to understand and nurture. When we lean in, co-regulate, and help our children feel seen, we raise kids who grow into adults who feel assured in exactly who they are. Chapters / Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome & introducing Dr. Aoife Durcan 00:34 – Aoife's background and her own highly sensitive boys 01:33 – The neuroscience: what high sensitivity actually is 04:52 – Sensing subtle shifts in tone (KC & Aoife's real-life examples) 07:14 – High sensitivity vs. neurodivergence: is there a difference? 08:57 – Just how common is it? (the 30% figure) 09:40 – What parents notice, including in babies 12:31 – Postpartum mental health and hard-to-soothe babies 14:28 – Why co-regulation matters so much 18:02 – When siblings feel the same thing differently 19:12 – Beyond the physical: the relationship is everything 22:10 – Emotional dysregulation and the "bucket" that overflows 23:40 – The window of tolerance & becoming a "sensory detective" 28:12 – "The only kid who won't leave my lap" and why support pays off 30:05 – Repair, neuroplasticity, and hope for parents 31:58 – Holding boundaries without breaking connection 36:03 – You don't have to say the perfect thing 37:27 – The number one thing every parent should know 39:26 – Where to find Dr. Durcan and her book Connect with Dr. Aoife Durcan:  📖 Book: Your Highly Sensitive Child https://www.amazon.com/Your-Highly-Sensitive-Child-overwhelming/dp/1804581585 📱 Instagram: @highlysensitivepsychologist 💻 Website: https://www.instituteofhighsensitivity.com/  Connect with KC and Milestones & Motherhood:  💻 Website & Blog: https://www.milestonesandmotherhood.com/ 📱 Follow KC: @milestones.and.motherhood 🎧 Follow the podcast: @more.than.milestones.pod 📬 Subscribe to the newsletter: https://idyllic-hat-942.myflodesk.com/fwefz61097 🛒 Shop KC's favorites: https://links.milestonesandmotherhood.com/amazon/amazonstorefrontmm 🔥 Go deeper with KC on Substack — More Than Milestones: Unfiltered is my subscription channel where I release 2 exclusive bonus episodes every month. Even more raw, unfiltered motherhood conversations you will not hear anywhere else. https://substack.com/@morethanmilestones 🤝 Sponsor or guest inquiries? Contact us at podcast@milestonesandmotherhood.com Love this episode? It would mean so much if you:  ⭐ Rate and review the podcast  🎧 Follow or subscribe so you do not miss an episode  📲 Share this episode with a friend who is navigating the same questions LMNT: Get a free 8-count Sample Pack of LMNT’s most popular drink mix flavors with any purchase at http://drinklmnt.com/MILESTONE. Find your favorite LMNT flavor, or share with a friend.

    41 min

  2. 9 Jun

    40. The Power of Play: How Inclusive Spaces Shape Childhood and Belonging with G Cody QJ Goldberg

    Inclusive playgrounds, accessibility, and why play matters for everyone. In this episode of More Than Milestones, I am joined by Cody Goldberg, co-founder and Chief Play Officer of Harper's Playground, to explore the power of inclusive playgrounds and why accessible play spaces are about so much more than play. Inspired by his daughter Harper's experience navigating the world with a rare genetic disability, Cody shares how a simple moment at a local playground sparked a movement to transform communities through radically inclusive design. Together, we discuss the difference between ADA compliance and true accessibility, the importance of designing spaces that foster belonging, and how thoughtful play environments can benefit people of all ages and abilities. This conversation challenges us to think beyond ramps and regulations and consider what it really means to create communities where everyone feels welcome, connected, and included. If you are passionate about accessibility, disability inclusion, child development, community connection, or creating spaces where all people can thrive, this episode is for you. In this episode, we cover: • The story behind Harper's Playground and how one family's experience sparked a global movement • Why accessible playgrounds are about belonging, not just compliance • The difference between ADA compliant and truly inclusive design • How playgrounds impact child development, social skills, and emotional growth • Why play is a fundamental human need across the lifespan • The hidden barriers that exist in many public spaces • How nature, community, and thoughtful design create better play experiences • The connection between inclusive spaces and reducing social isolation • What makes a playground physically, socially, and emotionally inviting • Practical steps for advocating for an inclusive playground in your own community • The future of accessibility and inclusive public spaces Inclusive design is not about creating separate spaces for people with disabilities. It is about building communities where everyone belongs. When we design for connection, accessibility, and play, we create environments that benefit all of us. Connect with G Cody QJ Goldberg and Harper’s Playground: 💻 Website: https://www.harpersplayground.org/  📱 Harper’s Playground: https://www.instagram.com/harpersplayground/  🔗LinkedIn: G Cody QJ Goldberg Connect with KC and Milestones & Motherhood: 💻 Website & Blog:  https://www.milestonesandmotherhood.com/ 📱 Follow KC for daily motor milestone tips and parenting support:  https://www.instagram.com/milestones.and.motherhood/ 🎧 Follow podcast updates and new episode drops:  https://www.instagram.com/more.than.milestones/ 📬 Join the email list for milestone tips and podcast updates  https://idyllic-hat-942.myflodesk.com/fwefz61097 🛒 Shop KC’s favorite mom and baby finds:  https://links.milestonesandmotherhood.com/amazon/amazonstorefrontmm 🔥Go deeper with KC on Substack More Than Milestones: Unfiltered is my subscription channel where I release 2 exclusive bonus episodes every month. Even more raw, unfiltered motherhood conversations you will not hear anywhere else. https://substack.com/@morethanmilestones 🤝 Sponsor or guest inquiries?  Contact us at podcast@milestonesandmotherhood.com Love this episode? It would mean so much if you: ⭐ Rate and review the podcast 🎧 Follow or subscribe so you do not miss an episode 📲 Share this episode with a friend who is navigating the same questions

    41 min

  3. 26 May

    39. The Hormone Revolution: What Women Were Never Taught About Their Bodies with Mariah Berendt

    PMS, painful periods, and how to support your body through nutrition In this episode of More Than Milestones, I am joined by Mariah Berendt, a holistic nutritionist and menstrual cycle educator, to unpack the truth about hormone health, PMS, and why so many women feel “off” for years without real answers. We talk about how common symptoms like painful periods, mood swings, fatigue, and cravings are often normalized, but are not actually something you have to live with. From the myths of cycle syncing to the foundations of true hormone support, this conversation offers a more realistic and sustainable approach. If you have ever felt like your body is working against you, this episode will help you understand why and what you can do about it. In this episode, we cover: Why many period symptoms are common but not normalThe truth about hormonal birth control and what we still do not knowCycle syncing and where it can be misleadingWhy your cycle is not as simple as four phasesThe connection between blood sugar, stress, sleep, and hormonesHow modern life impacts your cycle more than you thinkThe six foundations of holistic menstrual healthWhy doing more is not the answerA simple place to start that most women overlookYou do not need a complicated plan or perfect routine. Supporting your hormones starts with small, consistent changes in how you eat, sleep, and care for your body. LMNT: Get a free 8-count Sample Pack of LMNT’s most popular drink mix flavors with any purchase at http://drinklmnt.com/MILESTONE. Find your favorite LMNT flavor, or share with a friend.  Connect with Mariah: 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nourishyourcycle/  🍴 Big Girl Breakfast: https://www.nourishyourcycle.com/big-girl-breakfast  Connect with KC and Milestones & Motherhood: 💻 Website & Blog:  https://www.milestonesandmotherhood.com/ 📱 Follow KC for daily motor milestone tips and parenting support:  https://www.instagram.com/milestones.and.motherhood/ 🎧 Follow podcast updates and new episode drops:  https://www.instagram.com/more.than.milestones/ 📬 Join the email list for milestone tips and podcast updates  https://idyllic-hat-942.myflodesk.com/fwefz61097 🛒 Shop KC’s favorite mom and baby finds:  https://links.milestonesandmotherhood.com/amazon/amazonstorefrontmm 🤝 Sponsor or guest inquiries?  Contact us at podcast@milestonesandmotherhood.com 🔥Go deeper with KC on Substack More Than Milestones: Unfiltered is my subscription channel where I release 2 exclusive bonus episodes every month. Even more raw, unfiltered motherhood conversations you will not hear anywhere else. https://substack.com/@morethanmilestones Love this episode? It would mean so much if you: ⭐ Rate and review the podcast 🎧 Follow or subscribe so you do not miss an episode 📲 Share this episode with a friend who is navigating the same questions

    1hr 3min

  4. 12 May

    38. Financial Literacy for Parents: Budgeting, Investing, and Raising Money-Smart Kids with Hannah Rein

    In this episode of More Than Milestones, I’m sitting down with Hannah Rein, CPA, mom of three, and co-founder of Financially Engaged, to talk about financial literacy in a way that actually feels doable for real life. Because the truth is, most of us were never taught this. We break down the foundational pieces of personal finance, including budgeting, investing, debt payoff, and long-term financial planning, and how to approach it all without overwhelm or shame. Hannah shares simple ways to create a system that works for your life, not against it, and how to start building financial confidence step by step. We also talk about the real-life side of money. How to navigate finances with your partner, how to start having more open conversations, and how to model financial literacy for your kids in ways that feel natural and age-appropriate. One of my favorite parts of this conversation is when Hannah shares her “When We Die” folder. It completely shifted how I think about organizing our finances and planning for the unexpected, especially as a parent. In this episode, we cover: - How to create a realistic budget that you can actually stick to - Where to start with investing, including 401k, IRA, and index funds - High-yield savings accounts vs traditional savings accounts - How to build and prioritize your emergency fund - The snowball vs avalanche method for paying off debt - What accounts to consider for your kids, including 529, UGMA, and custodial IRA - How to have honest and productive money conversations as a couple - Simple ways to start teaching kids about money early on - What a monthly financial reset can look like - How to organize your finances with a “When We Die” folder If you’ve ever felt like you’re behind, confused, or just not sure where to start with your finances, this episode is for you. My hope is that you walk away feeling more clear, confident, and supported in taking your next step. Connect with Hannah: 💻 Website: https://financiallyengaged.com/ 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/financiallyengaged/ Connect with KC and Milestones & Motherhood: 💻 Website & Blog: https://www.milestonesandmotherhood.com/ 📱 Follow KC for daily motor milestone tips and parenting support: https://www.instagram.com/milestones.and.motherhood/ 🎧 Follow podcast updates and new episode drops:  https://www.instagram.com/more.than.milestones/ 📬 Join the email list for milestone tips and podcast updates  https://idyllic-hat-942.myflodesk.com/fwefz61097 🛒 Shop KC’s favorite mom and baby finds:  https://links.milestonesandmotherhood.com/amazon/amazonstorefrontmm 🤝 Sponsor or guest inquiries? Contact us at podcast@milestonesandmotherhood.com 🔥Go deeper with KC on Substack More Than Milestones: Unfiltered is my subscription channel where I release 2 exclusive bonus episodes every month. Even more raw, unfiltered motherhood conversations you will not hear anywhere else. https://substack.com/@morethanmilestones Love this episode? It would mean so much if you: ⭐ Rate and review the podcast 🎧 Follow or subscribe so you do not miss an episode 📲 Share this episode with a friend who is navigating the same questions

    41 min

  5. 5 May

    37. Low-Tox Living Without the Overwhelm: Simple Swaps, Safer Cleaning and Real-Life Wellness Habits

    Non-toxic living is everywhere right now, but for most moms it does not feel empowering. It feels overwhelming. In this episode of More Than Milestones, I am joined by wellness educator Samantha Gutierrez to break down what low-tox living actually looks like in real life and how to approach it without fear, perfection, or falling into endless research rabbit holes. We talk about how to make simple, high-impact swaps in your home, how to think critically about products and marketing, and how to support your body’s natural detox systems with small, sustainable habits. If you have ever felt like you are not doing enough or you do not know where to start, this episode will help you take a deep breath and move forward with confidence. In this episode, we talk through: Why non-toxic living can feel overwhelming & how to simplify itHow to make healthier swaps without throwing everything outWhat to prioritize first, including food, skincare, or cleaning productsThe truth about common household cleaners and disinfectantsWhat quats (quaternary ammonium compounds) are and why they matterA breakdown of hypochlorous acid and safer disinfecting optionsHow to navigate conflicting researchPractical daily habits to support your body’s natural detox systemsCircadian rhythm, sunlight, and simple wellness routinesGlucose balance basics including meal order, walks, and easy metabolism habitsReal-life meal prep and nutrition tips for busy moms Links & resources mentioned: Curativa Bay: https://www.curativabay.com/?rfsn=9019208.736ac22 (CODE: HABITS)EcoloxTech: https://ecoloxtech.com/samanthagutierrez (CODE: SAMANTHA10)Switch Natural App: https://gmm.one/5188d7a0-d51f-4838-bead-74bf87042643Force of Nature: https://partners.forceofnatureclean.com/milestonesandmotherhood  (CODE: MILESTONES for 40% OFF bundles)LMNT: http://drinklmnt.com/MILESTONE Get a free 8-count Sample Pack of LMNT’s most popular drink mix flavors with any purchase. Some of these links are affiliate links, which just means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only ever share products we actually use and love. Connect with Samantha: 📲 Instagram & TikTok: @sam_healinghabits  Connect with KC: 💻 Website:  https://www.milestonesandmotherhood.com/ 📲 KC's Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/milestones.and.motherhood/ 🎧 More Than Milestones Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/more.than.milestones 🛒 Shop KC’s favorite finds:  https://links.milestonesandmotherhood.com/amazon/amazonstorefrontmm 🤝 Sponsor or guest inquiries? podcast@milestonesandmotherhood.com 🔥Subscribe to More Than Milestones: Unfiltered on Substack for 2 exclusive bonus episodes every month: https://substack.com/@morethanmilestones

    41 min

  6. 28 Apr

    36. Breaking Parenting Cycles: Emotional Regulation for Parents and Kids with Jon Fogel

    How do you handle tantrums, big emotions, and discipline without yelling or punishment? In this episode of More Than Milestones, I sit down with parenting researcher & author Jon Fogel to break down what is actually happening in your child’s brain during meltdowns and why so many of us feel triggered in those moments. We talk about the difference between punishment and consequences, why traditional discipline often backfires, and what to do instead. Jon shares practical, research-backed tools to help you regulate your own emotions so you can respond instead of react. We also dive into why some kids feel harder to parent, how to break generational parenting cycles, and how to support emotional regulation in a way that actually sticks. If you have ever felt overwhelmed, reactive, or unsure how to handle your child’s behavior without yelling, this episode will give you clarity, tools, and a new perspective. This episode will help you: Understand the difference between punishment and consequencesLearn why kids’ brains struggle during meltdownsRegulate your own emotions in high stress momentsRespond to tantrums without yelling or shameBreak generational parenting patterns with practical tools Connect with Jon Fogel: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wholeparent/  Website - https://www.wholeparentacademy.com/ Books: Punishment-Free Parenting & Set My Feelings Free (OUT APRIL 28TH) - https://www.wholeparentacademy.com/copy-of-book-2  The Whole Parent Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-whole-parent-podcast/id1726080800  Connect with KC & Milestones & Motherhood: 💻 Website & Blog:  https://www.milestonesandmotherhood.com/ 📱 Follow KC for daily motor milestone tips and parenting support:  https://www.instagram.com/milestones.and.motherhood/ 🎧 Follow podcast updates and new episode drops:  https://www.instagram.com/more.than.milestones/ 🆓 Get my free tummy time training: Mastering Milestones with Confidence  https://www.milestonesandmotherhood.com/freetraining 📬 Join the email list for milestone tips and podcast updates  https://idyllic-hat-942.myflodesk.com/fwefz61097 🛒 Shop KC’s favorite mom and baby finds:  https://links.milestonesandmotherhood.com/amazon/amazonstorefrontmm 🤝 Sponsor or guest inquiries?  Contact us at podcast@milestonesandmotherhood.com 🔥Go deeper with KC on Substack More Than Milestones: Unfiltered is my subscription channel where I release 2 exclusive bonus episodes every month. Even more raw, unfiltered motherhood conversations you will not hear anywhere else. https://substack.com/@morethanmilestones

    55 min

  7. 21 Apr

    35. Dyslexia in Children: Early Signs, ADHD Overlap & How to Support Neurodivergent Kids

    What are the early signs of dyslexia in children and how can parents support neurodivergent kids? In this episode of More Than Milestones, I sit down with Dr. Jacob Santhouse, a counselor specializing in dyslexia and ADHD, to break down what dyslexia actually is and why it is often misunderstood. We talk about how dyslexia impacts language processing, working memory, and reading development, and why many bright children still struggle in school. We also cover early signs of dyslexia in toddlers and young children, including speech delays, difficulty with rhyming, word mix ups, and memory challenges. You will learn how dyslexia overlaps with ADHD, why many kids are not diagnosed until later, and what parents can do early to support their child. This episode also explores the emotional impact of learning differences, including shame, confidence, and how to help your child build resilience without pressure or fear. If you are wondering whether your child might be dyslexic or simply want to better understand neurodivergent development, this episode will give you clarity, tools, and reassurance. This episode will help you: Understand what dyslexia actually is and is notRecognize early signs in toddlers and young childrenNavigate testing, school support, and IEPsSupport your child without shame, pressure, or “just try harder” messagingShift from fixing your child to truly seeing and supporting them Connect with Dr. Jacob Santhouse and explore all of his incredible resources below! Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drjacobsanthouse/Website - https://www.bluejcoaching.com/ Counseling - https://www.olivecounseling.com/  For more of KC and Milestones & Motherhood:  💻 Website & Blog:  https://www.milestonesandmotherhood.com/ 📱Follow KC for daily motor milestone tips & parenting support:  https://www.instagram.com/milestones.and.motherhood/ 🎧 Follow podcast updates & new episode drops:  https://www.instagram.com/more.than.milestones/ 🆓 Get my free tummy time training: Mastering Milestones with Confidence https://www.milestonesandmotherhood.com/freetraining 📬 Join the email list for milestone tips + podcast updates https://idyllic-hat-942.myflodesk.com/fwefz61097 🛒 Shop KC’s favorite mom & baby finds:  https://links.milestonesandmotherhood.com/amazon/amazonstorefrontmm 🤝 Sponsor or guest inquiries? Contact us at podcast@milestonesandmotherhood.com 🔥 Go deeper with KC on Substack More Than Milestones: Unfiltered is my subscription channel where I release 2 exclusive bonus episodes every month. Even more raw, unfiltered motherhood chats you won’t hear anywhere else. https://substack.com/@morethanmilestones

    42 min

  8. 14 Apr

    34. Tongue Tie Truths: Evidence, Risks, and Informed Decisions

    Feeling unsure about tongue ties or overwhelmed by conflicting advice? This episode breaks down what actually matters so you can make confident decisions for your child without fear or pressure. In this roundtable conversation, I’m joined by Dr Yvonne LeFort NABBLM-C, Kara Larson CCC-SLP, and Brianna Mulik CCC-SLP—three experts in pediatric feeding, swallowing, and breastfeeding medicine to unpack one of the most talked about topics in parenting right now: tethered oral tissues. We talk about what tongue ties actually are, when they matter, and why so many parents feel pushed toward quick decisions without fully understanding their options. In this episode, we cover: What tongue ties actually are and when they matterWhy function matters more than appearanceHow to know if feeding challenges need further evaluationRed flags to watch for when seeking supportWhat the research says about speech, sleep, and older kidsRisks and benefits of interventionWhat true informed consent should look likeIf this episode helped you feel more confident, share it with a friend or another mom who might need it too. 🎧 Follow podcast updates & new episode drops:  https://www.instagram.com/more.than.milestones/ 🤝 Sponsor or guest inquiries? Contact us at podcast@milestonesandmotherhood.com  Go deeper with KC on Substack More Than Milestones: Unfiltered is my subscription channel where I release 2 exclusive bonus episodes every month. Even more raw, unfiltered motherhood chats you won’t hear anywhere else. https://substack.com/@morethanmilestones

    1hr 9min
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About

Hosted by pediatric physical therapist, wife and mom of three, Dr. KC Rickerd, More Than Milestones is the podcast that goes beyond baby checklists and dives deep into real motherhood, real development, real relationships, and everything in between. Whether you’re supporting your baby’s motor development, navigating big kid emotions, or navigating a new stage of life & parenting, this show blends expert-backed education with the honest, unfiltered reality of motherhood. Each week, KC brings you conversations with trusted professionals—pediatricians, therapists, sleep and feeding experts, mental health pros, and more—plus raw, relatable stories from fellow moms and caregivers. No pressure to be perfect. Just honest conversations, support, humor, and community for the journey you’re on. If you're looking for clarity, connection, and a reminder that while supporting our children’s development is important, so is supporting ourselves - you’re in the right place, because it’s always more than milestones.

Information

  • Creator
    Kaitlin Rickerd
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    42
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 More than Milestones
  • Show Website
    More than Milestones

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