The Momalogues

With Mary Avila-Shears & Laura Lilia Torres

Our show is a space where stories of moms from all walks of life come to life - tales that are touching, humorous, and incredibly real. We're here to explore the highs and lows of parenthood, offering support, laughter, and inspiration every step of the way. From pregnancy and the precious moments of newborns to the trials and triumphs of the teenage years, 'Momalogues' covers it all. We dive into diverse mothering topics, share expert insights, and engage in candid conversations about the art of nurturing.

  1. 3d ago

    Working Moms, Breastfeeding Rights & Finding Support with Lisa Myers

    What happens when motherhood and your career collide—and the workplace isn't designed to support you? For so many working moms, returning to work after having a baby comes with an overwhelming list of challenges. Between pumping schedules, breastfeeding struggles, demanding careers, and the emotional weight of leaving your little one, it's no wonder so many women feel like they're being asked to do the impossible. In this episode of The Momalogues Podcast, we're joined by Lisa Myers, former courtroom litigator turned inventor, entrepreneur, and founder of Ceres Chill, a company dedicated to making life easier for breastfeeding and pumping moms. Lisa shares her journey from working in a high-pressure, male-dominated legal profession to becoming a mother who suddenly found herself navigating a world that wasn't built with breastfeeding moms in mind. Together, we explore the realities of returning to work postpartum, the challenges of maintaining a milk supply while juggling a demanding career, and why understanding your workplace breastfeeding rights matters. We also discuss the benefits of breast milk, the importance of lactation support, and something many moms may not realize is an option: donor breast milk. And perhaps one of the most powerful reminders from this conversation? Breastfeeding may be natural, but that doesn't mean it's easy—and moms deserve support, not guilt. In This Episode: Lisa's journey from courtroom litigator to founder of Ceres Chill The challenges of returning to work while breastfeeding Why workplace accommodations matter for pumping moms Understanding breastfeeding rights and the PUMP Act The physical and emotional challenges of breastfeeding Why access to lactation consultants can make a difference The benefits of breast milk for babies and mothers Understanding donor breast milk and milk banks How breast milk donation can help vulnerable infants Letting go of breastfeeding guilt and unrealistic expectations Why even small amounts of breast milk can be meaningful Lisa also shares how her own breastfeeding struggles inspired her to create an innovative breast milk chilling thermos designed to give pumping moms more freedom and flexibility. And we're not stopping there! In Part 2, we'll learn more about the invention behind Ceres Chill and how Lisa is working to make pumping and breast milk storage more convenient for moms on the go. Whether you're preparing to return to work, currently breastfeeding, exclusively pumping, or simply passionate about better postpartum support, this conversation is filled with encouragement, important information, and a reminder that your well-being matters just as much as your baby's. 🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! We'd love to hear from you! What was your biggest challenge when returning to work after having a baby? Share your experience with us, and don't forget to send this episode to another mama who could use some encouragement. Connect with Lisa Myers 🌐 Ceres Chill: https://www.cereschill.com Additional Resources Share the Drop: https://sharethedrop.com Human Milk Banking Association of North America: https://www.milkbanking.org #TheMomaloguesPodcast #WorkingMoms #BreastfeedingSupport #PumpingMoms #PostpartumSupport #CeresChill #BreastfeedingJourney #MaternalHealth #MotherhoodUnfiltered #WorkingMotherhood

  2. 3d ago ·  Bonus

    You Might Enjoy: On Purpose with Jay Shetty

    Introducing Vinh Giang: How to Communicate So People Actually Listen to You from On Purpose with Jay Shetty. Follow the show: On Purpose with Jay Shetty Communication expert Vinh Giang joins Jay to share practical tools from his first book, Before We Forget How to Connect, to help you become a more confident communicator and build deeper, more meaningful connections. Vinh explains how to become a better listener, avoid common communication mistakes, and speak so people actually pay attention. From sounding confident when you're nervous to speaking up in meetings, navigating difficult conversations, and making a great first impression, Vinh shares simple techniques to help you communicate more effectively and connect with people in every area of your life. With Love and Gratitude, Jay Shetty Instagram Teen Accounts: Built-in protections for teens. JAY'S DAILY WISDOM DELIVERED STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX Join 900,000+ readers discovering how small daily shifts create big life change with my free newsletter. Subscribe here: https://news.jayshetty.me/subscribe Check out our Apple subscription to unlock bonus content of On Purpose! https://lnk.to/JayShettyPodcast What We Discuss: 00:00 Introduction 00:25 Before We Forget How To Connect 01:52 The High-Low Buffalo Icebreaker 02:45 Sharing Personal Highs 05:15 Sharing Personal Lows 11:40 Sharing Personal Buffalos 13:40 Escaping Small Talk 16:10 Overcoming Self-Judgment 17:58 Sharing Wins Without Sounding Arrogant 19:50 Communication Beyond The Script 20:40 Gen Z's Communication Struggles 23:20 Last Word, Last Letter Game 27:20 The Four Modalities Of Listening 29:50 The Three Follow-Up Questions Rule 35:50 How Do You Make A Great First Impression? 40:10 Reading the Room, Not Formulas 44:10 Finding Your Unique Voice 49:00 Life As A Book: New Chapters 50:40 Building Executive Presence 53:20 Fix Your Resting Blank Face 58:30 Filming Yourself For Self-Awareness 01:02:20 When Your Mind Goes Blank 01:06:10 The Power Of The Pause 01:09:30 How Can You Sound Confident When You’re Nervous? 01:14:40 From Texting Chemistry to Real-Life Connection 01:18:40 How to Communicate Better During Arguments 01:20:20 Learning to Speak Up In Meetings 01:25:45 How to Join a Conversation Without Feeling Awkward 01:28:20 Leaving A Conversation Gracefully 01:31:4 Embracing Vulnerability Episode Resources: Book | https://vinhgiang.com/before-we-forget-how-to-connect Website | https://vinhgiang.com/ YouTube | https://youtube.com/@askvinh Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/share/1CCPX1ChrP/?mibextid=wwXIfr LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/vinhgiang Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to team@podroll.fm.

    You Might Enjoy: On Purpose with Jay Shetty
  3. Oct 14

    The Parent's Guide to IEPs, 504 Plans & Neurodiversity Advocacy with Lisa Richer

    Mama, when it comes to supporting a neurodivergent child, knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. Between evaluations, school meetings, IEPs, 504 plans, and trying to find the right resources, it's easy to feel like you're navigating an entirely new world. In Part 2 of our conversation with Lisa Richer, neurodivergent advocate and founder of Journey to Bloom, we're talking about how parents can better understand their child's unique needs and confidently navigate the systems designed to support them. Lisa shares her personal journey and the heart behind her work, including her Journey to Bloom framework and how personalized assessments, individualized support, and small, meaningful steps can help families move forward. We also discuss the differences between IEPs and 504 plans, why early assessment can be valuable, and how parents can become stronger advocates for their children at home and school. Throughout the conversation, Lisa reminds us that progress doesn't always happen overnight. Sometimes, it's the small shifts that make the biggest difference—and parents' observations, questions, and instincts are an important part of the process. In this episode, we discuss: Signs of neurodiversity and recognizing your child's individual needs Why assessments can help families better understand their children Lisa's Journey to Bloom framework and its guiding principles Understanding IEPs and 504 plans Practical strategies for navigating school systems and finding support The importance of personalized assessments and interventions Encouraging children to develop self-advocacy skills Celebrating small steps, progress, and meaningful breakthroughs Why parents should trust their instincts and keep asking questions Whether you're beginning to explore an evaluation, preparing for a school meeting, or looking for ways to better support your neurodivergent child, this conversation offers encouragement and practical insights to help you take the next step. You don't have to know all the answers today. With the right information, support, and advocacy, you can help your child build on their strengths and thrive. 🎧 Listen to Part 2 of The Momalogues Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you listen to podcasts! Connect with Lisa Richer: 🌐 Website: https://journeytobloom.com 📲 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/journey2bloom/ If this episode helps you, share it with a parent who could use a little extra encouragement on their journey. 💛 #TheMomaloguesPodcast #Neurodiversity #IEP #504Plan #SpecialEducation #ADHD #Autism #ParentingSupport #ChildAdvocacy #LisaRicher

  4. Oct 7

    ADHD, Mom Burnout & Self-Care: Lisa Richer on Navigating Neurodiversity

    What happens when you spend your entire life trying to keep everything together, only to realize that you've lost yourself in the process? In this heartfelt episode of The Momalogues Podcast, we're joined by Lisa Richer, neurodivergent advocate, founder of Journey to Bloom, and mom of two neurodivergent sons. After receiving her own ADHD diagnosis in her late 40s, Lisa began connecting the dots between her experiences growing up, her career, motherhood, and the burnout that ultimately changed her life. Lisa opens up about her journey as an undiagnosed ADHDer, her years as an elite gymnast competing internationally for the United States, and how being a workaholic and a fixer became patterns that left her overwhelmed and disconnected from herself. She also shares what it was like navigating her sons' diagnoses, the guilt and shame many moms experience, and the pressure to find answers while advocating for their children. Together, we talk about the different ways ADHD can present, why every neurodivergent person's experience is unique, and how moms can begin to move from confusion to clarity. Lisa also reminds us why prioritizing our own mental and physical well-being is essential—not just for ourselves, but for our families, too. In this episode, we discuss: Lisa's experience growing up undiagnosed with ADHD How ADHD can look different from person to person Her journey as an elite gymnast and how movement helped her thrive The connection between people-pleasing, overworking, and burnout Navigating the emotional weight of a child's neurodivergent diagnosis Letting go of guilt, shame, and the pressure to fix everything Why self-care is essential for moms and caregivers Simple ways to find joy, practice mindfulness, and regulate stress Learning to ask for help and finding the right support system Whether you're raising a neurodivergent child, exploring your own neurodivergence, or simply feeling overwhelmed by the demands of motherhood, Lisa's story is a reminder that you don't have to do it all alone—and you deserve care and compassion, too. 🎧 Tune in to The Momalogues Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. And if this conversation resonates with you, share it with a mama who might need the reminder. Connect with Lisa Richer: Website: https://journey2bloom.com #TheMomaloguesPodcast #Neurodiversity #ADHD #NeurodivergentAdvocate #Motherhood #MomBurnout #ParentingSupport #SelfCareForMoms #MentalWellness #MomsWhoInspire

  5. Sep 23

    2 Million Kids Are Bitten Every Year: Teaching Children Pet Safety

    How confident are your kids when it comes to interacting with dogs and other pets? In Part 2 of our conversation with children's book author Christine Devane, we shift the conversation to an incredibly important topic for families: pet safety and teaching children how to interact safely and respectfully with animals. Christine shares why pet safety education is so important, including the startling statistic that two million children are bitten by dogs every year, and offers practical ways parents can teach kids to recognize boundaries, approach animals safely, and understand that even familiar family pets need space and respect. We talk about common mistakes parents may make when introducing children to pets, fun ways to teach gentle interactions, responsible pet ownership, understanding dog breeds and temperament, and how a child's own personality can affect the way they interact with animals. Most importantly, Christine explains how storytelling can make these lessons easier for children to understand and remember—turning an important safety conversation into something engaging and relatable. In This Episode: Why pet safety education matters for children Understanding dog-bite statistics and prevention How to teach children to safely approach and pet animals Using stuffed animals to practice gentle petting Common mistakes parents make around kids and pets Teaching children to recognize an animal's boundaries The importance of responsible pet ownership Understanding dog breeds, temperament, and behavior How different child personalities can affect pet interactions Using stories to teach empathy, kindness, and respect Helping pets become a positive part of family life Whether you have a dog at home, your child loves animals, or your family regularly encounters pets, this conversation offers practical reminders that can help children build safe, respectful, and compassionate relationships with animals. Learn more about Christine and her books: Christine Devane's Website Follow Sophie the Rescue Dog: @SophieTheRescueDog on Instagram Learn more about animal rescue: MSPCA Animal Shelter #TheMomaloguesPodcast #PetSafety #DogSafety #KidsAndDogs #ParentingTips #ChildSafety #ChildrensBooks #AnimalRescue #Empathy #ResponsiblePetOwnership

  6. Sep 16

    Teaching Kids Through Storytelling: Children's Books, Empathy & More with Christine Devane

    What if a children's book could do more than entertain? What if it could help a child understand their own personality, appreciate differences in others, and learn how to navigate the world with a little more kindness? In Part 1 of our conversation with children's book author Christine Devane, we're talking about the heart behind her stories and what inspired her to create books that connect with children in meaningful ways. Christine shares the inspiration behind her books, including Elephant Beach and Lola and Sophie's ABC Adventure, and explains how storytelling can help children explore emotions, personalities, empathy, and the beautiful differences that make each child unique. We also talk about what makes a children's story engaging, the role illustrations play in connecting with young readers, and the realities of being a children's book author, including the importance of marketing and getting your books into the hands of the families who need them. In This Episode: The inspiration behind Christine's children's books How stories can help children understand and embrace differences Teaching empathy and kindness through storytelling Why children's personalities matter Helping shy, outgoing, and differently wired children feel understood The role of illustrations in children's books What goes into creating and marketing a children's book How books can open meaningful conversations between parents and children If you're a mom, teacher, caregiver, or simply love books that entertain while helping children grow, this conversation is full of sweet and practical takeaways. Free resource: Christine also offers printable coloring pages on her website for families to enjoy along with her stories: Christine Devane's Website Follow Christine: @stined13 Follow Sophie the Rescue Dog: @SophieTheRescueDog on Instagram #TheMomaloguesPodcast #ChildrensBooks #Parenting #EarlyChildhoodEducation #Storytelling #Empathy #KidsBooks #ParentingTips #MomsWhoInspire

  7. Sep 2

    Vitamin C, Retinoids, Peptides & Botox: What Your Skin Really Needs with Dr. Angela Casey

    Skincare can feel overwhelming—especially when every new product promises to transform your skin. So which ingredients actually work, and how do you know what your skin really needs? In Part 2 of The Momalogues Podcast's conversation with Dr. Angela Casey, double board-certified dermatologist and founder of Bright Girl Skincare, Mary and Dr. Casey take a deeper dive into the world of active skincare ingredients, anti-aging treatments, and building a routine that works for your skin at every stage of life. Dr. Casey breaks down some of the most talked-about ingredients in skincare, including vitamin C, retinoids, peptides, and ceramides, explaining what they do and how they can work together to support healthy skin. She also shares practical advice for introducing retinoids safely, recognizing signs that you've overdone your skincare routine, and protecting your skin barrier. And then there's Botox and fillers. Dr. Casey addresses some of the biggest myths surrounding these treatments and explains how Botox can play a preventative role in the aging process—while emphasizing the importance of maintaining a natural look. From your 20s to your 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond, this conversation offers a roadmap for thinking about skincare throughout the decades rather than chasing every new trend. Whether you're a skincare beginner, a longtime product lover, or a mom trying to figure out what products are actually appropriate for your teen or tween, this episode is packed with dermatologist-backed insights to help you make more informed choices. In This Episode, You'll Learn: What vitamin C actually does for your skin How retinoids help support collagen and skin repair How to introduce retinoids safely and avoid irritation What peptides and ceramides contribute to healthy skin How to recognize when you've damaged your skin barrier by using too many active ingredients What parents and consumers should know about Botox and fillers Why Botox may be used as a preventative approach to visible aging What emerging treatments like exosomes and platelet-rich plasma are—and what to consider before trying them How your skincare needs change throughout your 20s, 30s, 40s and beyond Why consistency matters more than constantly chasing the newest skincare trend Special Offer for Momalogues Listeners Want to try Dr. Casey's Bright Girl Skincare? Momalogues listeners receive 15% off Bright Girl Skincare! Use code MOMALOGUES at checkout. Shop Bright Girl Skincare Keywords skincare, vitamin C, retinoids, peptides, ceramides, exosomes, Botox, fillers, anti-aging, skin health, skincare routine, dermatology, collagen, skin barrier, healthy aging

  8. Aug 26

    Skin Longevity, Skincare Myths & What Really Works with Dr. Angela Casey

    What if the best anti-aging strategy isn't another trendy product—but the habits you start today? In Part 1 of this conversation on The Momalogues Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Angela Casey, double board-certified dermatologist and skincare expert, for a refreshing, science-backed conversation about skin longevity, healthy aging, and what actually matters when it comes to caring for your skin. With so many skincare trends, "biohacks," products, and social media tips competing for our attention, it can be hard to know what's worth our time—and what's simply hype. Dr. Casey breaks down the foundations of lifelong skin health, including the connection between diet, inflammation, lifestyle, sun exposure, collagen, and cellular health. The conversation also explores the surprising effects of our digital lifestyles, including "tech neck" and blue light, while Dr. Casey explains why a complicated 10-step routine isn't necessarily the answer. Her philosophy? Less is often more. Whether you're just starting a skincare routine or you've accumulated an entire bathroom cabinet of products, this episode offers practical advice to help you make smarter, more informed choices for healthier skin over time. In this episode, we discuss: What skin longevity really means—and why it starts long before visible signs of aging How diet and inflammation can impact the health and appearance of your skin What we actually know about blue light and digital exposure Why "tech neck" may contribute to visible signs of aging The skincare ingredients and habits worth prioritizing Why sunscreen remains one of the most important tools for protecting your skin How to simplify your skincare routine without sacrificing results Special Offer for Momalogues Listeners Ready to try Bright Girl Skincare? Dr. Casey is offering Momalogues listeners 15% off Bright Girl Skincare. Use code MOMALOGUES at checkout. Shop Bright Girl Skincare Resources American Academy of Dermatology — Skin Care Tips Keywords skincare, skin longevity, anti-aging, blue light, sunscreen, collagen, skin health, biohacking, skincare routine, inflammation, healthy aging, dermatology

5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Our show is a space where stories of moms from all walks of life come to life - tales that are touching, humorous, and incredibly real. We're here to explore the highs and lows of parenthood, offering support, laughter, and inspiration every step of the way. From pregnancy and the precious moments of newborns to the trials and triumphs of the teenage years, 'Momalogues' covers it all. We dive into diverse mothering topics, share expert insights, and engage in candid conversations about the art of nurturing.