Medicine Motherhood Missions

Johanna
  • 5.0 (7)
  • Medicine
  • Updated Weekly

Hi! I'm Johanna, Welcome to Medicine, Motherhood, & Mission – a podcast born from a love of inspiring and encouraging conversations. As a PA, mom, & nonprofit founder, I’ve always been passionate about hearing the stories and journeys of others – their challenges, triumphs, and the purpose that drives them. Too often, we find ourselves stuck in our own bubbles and perspectives, but here, we make space to listen, learn, and grow together. My hope is that these stories of remarkable women ignite a spark in you, remind you of your purpose, and encourage you to take bold steps towards your dreams.

  1. 3d ago

    Amanda Russell on Motherhood, Identity, and Thriving in the Chaotic Middle | 71

    Key topics She opens up about experiencing postpartum depression with two of her childrenHow motherhood reshaped her sense of purposeMental load women carry, especially when they are the default caretaker, planner, and emotional anchor in the home.Delegation in business, stronger boundaries, and accepting support have helped her protect her time and energy.Redefining success, letting go of guilt, and accepting that pivoting is part of growth rather than a sign of failure.Amanda emphasizes that resilience often looks like redirection, especially when feedback, disappointment, or burnout force a new perspective.Timestamps 00:00 - Why this episode is for women in the messy middle 02:07 - Who Amanda Russell is beyond her roles and titles 02:45 - From corporate paralegal to copywriter and business owner 04:15 - Why storytelling became the heart of her work 06:49 - Postpartum depression and the role podcasts played in survival 07:43 - How motherhood shaped her identity and values 10:51 - The season that pushed her to start her own business 12:21 - Her kids seeing her build something meaningful 13:38 - Why one woman's admission can become another woman's permission 15:46 - Reconnecting with identity beyond productivity and caretaking 18:05 - Losing yourself in motherhood and the need to feel seen 20:57 - Releasing perfectionism and the Pinterest board pressure 22:41 - Why worrying about being a good mom is usually a sign you are one 24:50 - Delegation, boundaries, and making space for what matters 29:16 - Redefining success beyond the old career ladder 31:05 - Guilt about serving outside the home and in the community 32:30 - Purpose before opinions and letting guilt lose its power 34:18 - Why pivoting is normal and not a failure 38:13 - Practicing confidence instead of waiting to feel ready 42:41 - Rebuilding after disappointment, burnout, and negative feedback 46:11 - Teaching kids to receive feedback without letting it define them 47:44 - What entrepreneurship has taught her about resilience 49:41 - The invisible mental load and the chaos of school schedules 51:20 - Rest, dropping balls, and giving yourself permission to pause 53:17 - Managing overwhelm and adjusting rhythms by season 56:14 - Encouragement for women who feel unseen Notable quotes "One woman's admission is another's permission.""I had a purpose before anyone had an opinion.""If you're worrying about being a good mom, then you should know you already are one." Connect with Amanda:  www.chaoscoordinationllc.com. https://www.threads.com/chaoscoordinationllc https://www.instagram.com/chaoscoordinationllc https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-courtney-russell/ Connect with Johanna: 🌐 www.johannamoses.com🌐 www. Ephraimfoundation.org📲 Instagram: @medicine_motherhood_missions Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: DDPRY1OPWI3NRMTF

  2. Aug 11

    From Medicine to Mission: Helping Neurodiverse Children Thrive with Christine Davis, PA-C

    More Than Milestones: Helping Every Child Thrive | Featuring Christina Davis, PA-CEvery child develops at their own pace—but knowing when to seek support can make a lifelong difference. In this episode of Medicine, Motherhood, Missions, Johanna Moses welcomes Christina Davis, PA-C, a Physician Associate specializing in developmental and behavioral pediatrics and the founder of All Hands In Supporting Neurodiverse Development. Together, they explore how families, healthcare providers, educators, and technology can work together to support children in reaching their fullest potential. Christina shares her journey into developmental and behavioral pediatrics, what inspired her to launch her own practice, and why she is passionate about helping families navigate developmental concerns with compassion, education, and whole-child care. Johanna and Christina also discuss the evolving role of technology in healthcare, including consulting with the Neo Sophia Early Screener App and how digital tools can improve access to early developmental screening while strengthening—not replacing—the provider-patient relationship. In This Episode, We Discuss:What developmental and behavioral pediatrics really isCommon developmental concerns parents should never ignoreUnderstanding and embracing neurodiversitySupporting families with compassion, confidence, and hopeBuilding collaborative care between parents, schools, therapists, and medical providersEntrepreneurship and launching a purpose-driven healthcare practiceExpanding career opportunities for Physician Associates beyond traditional clinical rolesWhy every child deserves to be seen for their strengths—not just their challengesKey TakeawaysEvery child develops differently, and milestones are meant to guide—not define—a child's potential.Early evaluation provides clarity and opens doors to support.Neurodiversity reminds us to celebrate unique strengths while meeting individual needs.Technology can improve access to care while preserving meaningful patient relationships.Healthcare is strongest when families, providers, educators, and communities work together.Purpose-driven leadership can extend far beyond the exam room.Connect with Johanna MosesIf this conversation encouraged you, please subscribe to Medicine, Motherhood, Missions, leave a review, and share this episode with a parent, healthcare provider, educator, or friend who could benefit from these insights. Together, we can build healthier families, stronger communities, and brighter futures—one child at a time. Connect with Christina DavisLearn more about Christina's work through All Hands In Supporting Neurodiverse Development and follow her for educational resources that empower families and support neurodiverse children. cdavis@allhandsinneurodev.com @all.hands.in_neurodev (Tik Tok and Instagram) https://allhandsinneurodev.com/ Connect with Johanna: www.johannamoses.com @medicine_motherhood_missions Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: AKS3MJTUWQDZ095X

  3. Aug 4

    The Athena Complex: Power, Pain, and Who Gets Protected with Kayla Branstetter

    What happens when systems protect power more than people? In this second half of Johanna's conversation with Kayla Branstetter — author of the upcoming book Don't Be an Athena — the two go beyond mean-girl mythology to ask harder questions about who gets believed, who gets blamed, and who gets left to suffer in silence. Drawing on the ancient story of Medusa — a mortal woman punished for a god's violence against her — Kayla and Johanna trace a direct line from Greek mythology to modern healthcare: the dismissal of women's pain, the politicization of medical research, the erosion of trust between patients and providers, and the internalized shame so many women carry into motherhood, reproduction, and their own bodies. This episode covers a wide range of ground: sexual assault and consent education, the history of medical racism (from Tuskegee to Henrietta Lacks), the impact of colonization on women's rights, vaccine hesitancy and public health communication, and the quiet, generational pressure to endure rather than to heal. It's not a conversation about rejecting strength — it's a conversation about whether real strength makes room for truth, compassion, and care. Key Topics & Approximate Timestamps What the Athena myth represents: power, complicity, and dualityThe story behind Don't Be an Athena — Medusa, Poseidon, and the origin of the "monster"How shame replaces supportParallels to colonization and cultural erasureKayla's own story: infertility, miscarriageHealthcare as a human rightInternalized misogyny across culturesThe mental load, "quiet endurance," and the myth of the strong-but-weak woman About the Guest Kayla Branstetter is an English instructor, writer, TEDx speaker, and researcher. Connect with Kayla: 📖 Book: https://a.co/d/0cF3EXml🌐 Website: www.kaylabranstetter.com📲 Instagram: @kaylabranstetterLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayla-branstetter/kaylabranstetterauthor@gmail.com  Connect with Johanna: 🌐 www.johannamoses.com📲 @medicine_motherhood_missions📧 johanna.n.moses@gmail.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXH7WkmRtzX-gt_sDcKzwFA Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/35VYJvIJuLWUgjTZIoGWGR?si=54b5368973c14837 Apple Podcast: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/medicine-motherhood-missions/id1759759710 #MedicineMotherhoodMissions #SparkHope Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: AIU4RUANLPZZLHZE

  4. Jul 31

    Love and Cherish, In Sickness & Health. Conversation on Marriage with Dr. Paul and Johanna Moses

    For better or worse, richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and cherish. Marriage is one of God's greatest gifts—but it's also one of our greatest opportunities for growth. In this special episode of Medicine Motherhood Missions, Johanna is joined by her husband, Dr. Paul Moses, for an honest conversation about marriage, biblical roles, leadership, partnership, and what it means to build a life centered on Christ. Together, they reflect on their own journey—from balancing careers in medicine, academia, and nonprofit work to raising a daughter, navigating unexpected challenges, and learning that a healthy marriage isn't built on perfection, but on humility, grace, and serving one another. Whether you're single, dating, engaged, newly married, or have celebrated decades together, this episode offers encouragement for anyone desiring stronger relationships rooted in faith and purpose. In this episode, we discuss:• How our understanding of marriage has changed over the years • What biblical leadership and submission really mean—and what they don't? • Why healthy marriages are built on mutual respect and sacrificial love • Supporting each other's individual callings without competing • Balancing career, ministry, parenthood, and marriage • Communication habits that strengthen relationships • Navigating conflict with grace instead of pride • The importance of forgiveness and choosing each other every day • What we hope our daughter learns by watching our marriage • Practical advice for couples in every season of life Marriage isn't about keeping score. It's about choosing love when it's difficult, extending grace when it's undeserved, and remembering that your spouse isn't your opponent—they're your teammate. Our prayer is that this conversation encourages you to pursue a marriage marked by faith, humility, and purpose, while reminding you that God continues to shape us through every season of life together. Resources Mentioned• Learn more about The Ephraim Foundation International (EFI) and our mission to empower children and families in Sri Lanka. • Follow Medicine Motherhood Missions for more conversations at the intersection of faith, medicine, family, and purpose. Connect with Johanna MosesIf today's episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a friend or spouse. Your support is greatly appreciated! 🌐 www.johannamoses.com🌐 www. Ephraimfoundation.org📲 Instagram: @medicine_motherhood_missions📧 johanna.n.moses@gmail.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXH7WkmRtzX-gt_sDcKzwFA Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/35VYJvIJuLWUgjTZIoGWGR?si=54b5368973c14837 Apple Podcast: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/medicine-motherhood-missions/id1759759710 Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: RFULV28TDBULBTV7

  5. Jul 28

    Medical Gaslighting, Miscarriage & the Myth of Being Strong with Kayla Branstetter

    Have you ever felt like you had to smile through your pain, minimize your symptoms, or convince others that what you were experiencing was real? In this episode of Medicine Motherhood Missions, host Johanna Moses sits down with educator, TEDx speaker, researcher, and author Kayla Branstetter to explore the cultural expectation that women should quietly endure suffering. Together, they unpack how this mindset affects women's health, reproductive care, and emotional well-being. Kayla shares insights from her upcoming book, Don't Be an Athena, releasing July 20, and explains why the strongest thing a woman can do isn't to suffer in silence—it's to tell the truth about her story. • Why women are often praised for silent endurance rather than honest vulnerability • Medical gaslighting • Misdiagnosis/delayed diagnosis in women's health • Miscarriage, infertility, reproductive trauma, and grief • Judgment, shame, and the emotional burden women carry • Teen pregnancy and the importance of compassion over condemnation • Narrative medicine and why every patient's story matters • How healthcare providers can build trust through listening • What true resilience actually looks like Connect with Kayla Branstetter Follow Kayla to learn more about her advocacy, writing, TEDx talk, and her book Don't Be an Athena: Women's Stories of Surviving Medical Misogyny 📖 Book: Don’t Be an Athena:🌐 Website: www.kaylabranstetter.com📲 Instagram: @kaylabranstetterLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayla-branstetter/kaylabranstetterauthor@gmail.com  Connect with Johanna: 🌐 www.johannamoses.com📲 Instagram: @medicine_motherhood_missionsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXH7WkmRtzX-gt_sDcKzwFA Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/35VYJvIJuLWUgjTZIoGWGR?si=54b5368973c14837 Apple Podcast: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/medicine-motherhood-missions/id1759759710 Loved this episode? Leave a review, share it with a woman in medicine who needs it today, and subscribe so you never miss an episode. Empower. Encourage. Educate. — Spark Hope. Johanna Moses, PA-C, MPH, is passionate about helping others live with purpose and courage. With years of experience practicing medicine and serving patients in clinical settings, Johanna brings a unique perspective that bridges healthcare, faith, leadership, and personal growth. She founded a nonprofit and is also the author of the children’s book series Little Evie’s Big Dreams.

  6. Jul 28

    One Yes Can Change Everything: The Ephraim Foundation International's Story Johanna and Paul Moses

    Johanna welcomes her husband, Dr. Paul Moses, back to the podcast for a candid conversation about The Ephraim Foundation International—the nonprofit ministry Johanna founded that has grown from small acts of faith into a movement serving children and families in Sri Lanka. Paul shares his front-row view of the foundation's growth over the years, from its earliest days to his own trips to Sri Lanka meeting the children and families the foundation serves. Together, they pull back the curtain on the lessons learned, the faithfulness they've witnessed, and why they believe lasting transformation starts with investing in people—not just projects. Whether you're passionate about missions, curious about nonprofit leadership, or wondering if God can use your own ordinary "yes" for something extraordinary, this conversation is for you. How God can take one person's willingness to say "yes" and multiply it into lasting impact through community, faithfulness, and obedience. In This Episode The early days of The Ephraim Foundation International and how it's grown over the yearsPaul's experience traveling to Sri Lanka and meeting the children and families served by the foundationBehind-the-scenes lessons from building a nonprofit rooted in relationships, education, and hopeWhy investing in people—not just projects—creates lasting transformationHow education, leadership, nutrition, and relationships work together to change the next generation's trajectoryEncouragement for anyone wondering if their "ordinary yes" could lead to something extraordinary Key Takeaway God doesn't ask us to have all the answers before we begin—He asks us to be faithful with what He's placed in our hands. The growth of The Ephraim Foundation International hasn't come from one person, but from the generosity, prayers, and partnership of people who believe every child deserves hope, opportunity, and the chance to flourish. Quote to Share "When we invest in people with love and purpose, we're investing in generations to come." Connect & Get Involved Loved this episode? Share it with a friend, subscribe to Medicine, Motherhood, Missions, and leave a review.Want to be part of the work of The Ephraim Foundation International? Get involved through prayer, giving, or sharing the mission. 🌐 www.ephraimfoundation.org📲 IG: @medicine_motherhood_missionsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXH7WkmRtzX-gt_sDcKzwFA Johanna Moses, PA-C, MPH, is a physician assistant, author, and podcast host passionate about helping others live with purpose and courage.  With years of experience practicing medicine and serving patients in clinical settings, Johanna brings a unique perspective that bridges healthcare, faith, leadership, and personal growth.  She is the host of the podcast Medicine, Motherhood & Missions, where she shares meaningful conversations on medicine, calling, and impact, and the author of the children’s book series Little Evie’s Big Dreams. Through her work in medicine and storytelling, Johanna encourages others to pursue their calling, lead with compassion, and dream beyond limitations. Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: Q6XCTFPHYPPBKXZD

  7. Jul 21

    In Between the Lines of life, medicine & faith: A conversation with Dr. Ashley Tauriac

    Ep 65 | In Between the Lines of life, medicine & faith: A conversation with Dr. Ashley Tauriac  What does it really look like to carry your faith into the exam room, the home, and the mission field — all at once? In this episode, Johanna sits down with Dr. Ashley Tauriac, pediatrician, speaker, and author of In Between the Lines: Of Faith and Work, for an honest conversation about leading with vision, finding beauty in the mundane, and what it means to stop looking at the pain and start looking up. Whether you're a medical student, a seasoned clinician, or a mother on mission — this one is for you. In This Episode We Cover: Dr. Tauriac's journey through medical training — including surviving bacterial meningitisWhat it means to live and lead "in between the lines"Why you don't have to choose between being an excellent clinician and an excellent woman of faithHow to bring organic, authentic faith into your professional life without it feeling forcedFinding God in the mundane moments — and resting in Him in the hard onesThe vision that carries you throughMissions as a lifestyle, not a luxury Scripture Referenced: Colossians 3:23 — "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters."Philippians 4:13 — "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Connect with Dr. Ashley Tauriac: 📖 Book: In Between the Lines: Of Faith and Work — 🌐 Website: https://ashley-tauriac.mykajabi.com/📲 Instagram: @ashleytauriachttps://www.facebook.com/ashley.tauriac/https://www.tiktok.com/@doc_taurhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC70ZQlhqlV1h3GxpRe9qqRQhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-tauriac-md-17769870/ Connect with Johanna: 🌐 www.johannamoses.com📲 Instagram: @medicine_motherhood_missions📧 johanna.n.moses@gmail.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXH7WkmRtzX-gt_sDcKzwFA Link to show on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/35VYJvIJuLWUgjTZIoGWGR?si=54b5368973c14837 Link to show on Apple Podcast: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/medicine-motherhood-missions/id1759759710 Loved this episode? Leave a review, share it with a woman in medicine who needs it today, and subscribe so you never miss an episode. Empower. Encourage. Educate. — Spark Hope.

  8. Jul 14

    Teaching Kids Empathy Through Animals, Books & Everyday Moments Ep 64

    Raising Compassionate Kids: How Teaching Kindness to Animals Shapes a Child's Heart | Featuring Christine DevaneCan teaching children kindness toward animals help them become more compassionate adults? In this inspiring episode of Medicine, Motherhood & Missions, host Johanna Moses sits down with award-winning children's author and former elementary school teacher Christine Devane to explore how storytelling, empathy, and caring for animals can shape a child's character for life. Christine shares the heart behind her award-winning children's books, including Elephant Beach, Lola and Sophie's ABC Adventure, and Pet Safety with Lola & Sophie. Inspired by her lifelong love of animals and years spent in the classroom, Christine writes stories that help children develop empathy, confidence, kindness, and responsibility. Together, Johanna and Christine discuss why teaching children to care for animals is about so much more than pets. These early experiences become opportunities to teach compassion, respect, gentleness, responsibility, and emotional intelligence—qualities that help children build healthy relationships throughout their lives. Whether you're raising young children, teaching in a classroom, working in healthcare, or simply looking for ways to cultivate kindness in the next generation, this conversation is full of practical encouragement and timeless wisdom. In This Episode You'll Learn:Why kindness toward animals builds empathy toward peopleHow children's books can help shape character and emotional developmentPractical ways parents can teach compassion at homeThe importance of pet safety and respectful interactions with animalsEncouraging shy children through stories that help them feel seenThe value of adopting rescue petsHow small moments of kindness create lifelong characterMemorable Quote"The way children learn to care for animals often becomes the way they learn to care for people." About Our GuestChristine Devane is an award-winning children's author, former second-grade teacher, and lifelong animal advocate. Her books encourage children to develop empathy, confidence, kindness, and responsibility while promoting pet adoption and animal safety. Inspired by her own childhood love of animals and years spent reading with students, Christine creates stories that help children grow into compassionate leaders. Resources MentionedElephant BeachLola and Sophie's ABC AdventurePet Safety with Lola & SophieConnect with Medicine, Motherhood & MissionsIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe to Medicine, Motherhood & Missions on your favorite podcast platform. Leaving a five-star review helps more listeners discover conversations that encourage purpose, leadership, faith, and impact. Share this episode with a parent, teacher, grandparent, librarian, pediatric provider, veterinarian, or animal lover who believes in raising children with compassion. Together, we can raise a generation that leads with kindness. Connect with Christine: https://www.christine-devane.com/  Instagram @stined13 Connect with Johanna  Instagram: @medicine_motherhood_missions ⁠ www.johannamoses.com

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About

Hi! I'm Johanna, Welcome to Medicine, Motherhood, & Mission – a podcast born from a love of inspiring and encouraging conversations. As a PA, mom, & nonprofit founder, I’ve always been passionate about hearing the stories and journeys of others – their challenges, triumphs, and the purpose that drives them. Too often, we find ourselves stuck in our own bubbles and perspectives, but here, we make space to listen, learn, and grow together. My hope is that these stories of remarkable women ignite a spark in you, remind you of your purpose, and encourage you to take bold steps towards your dreams.

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