A Bridge to Motherhood Podcast - Christian Motherhood, Postpartum Planning, Birth Prep, Mental Health & Routines

Danielle Bruner
  • 5.0 (10)
  • Parenting
  • Updated Weekly

A Bridge to Motherhood Podcast helps Christian moms navigate pregnancy, birth, and postpartum with practical, evidence-based support and faith-filled encouragement. Hosted by Danielle Bruner—mom of two and birth & postpartum doula—this podcast offers honest conversations, expert insights, and simple strategies to help you feel prepared, supported, and confident in early motherhood. From postpartum planning and birth recovery to mental health, routines, and relationships, each episode blends real-life motherhood with biblical truth—reminding you that your identity is rooted in Christ, not perfection. You’ll learn how to:  Prepare for postpartum during pregnancy  Heal physically and emotionally after birth  Support your mental health (postpartum anxiety & depression)  Build routines, boundaries, and support systems  Strengthen your marriage and family rhythms  Grow in your faith during motherhood  If you’re looking for practical guidance, encouragement, and a Christ-centered perspective on motherhood—you’re in the right place. New episodes drop weekly. Subscribe and start thriving in motherhood—without the pressure to do it perfectly. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for your unique needs.

  1. Jun 23

    67. When Motherhood Doesn't Go as Planned: Finding God in the Unexpected with Kendall Mariah

    Motherhood doesn't always unfold the way we expect. In this episode, I'm joined by Kendall Mariah, author of This Little Fire of Mine, for a deeply honest conversation about infertility, adoption, anxiety, neurodivergence, faith, and learning to trust God when life takes unexpected turns. Kendall shares her journey of discovering infertility before marriage, navigating diagnoses of PCOS and endometriosis, and ultimately pursuing adoption. We talk about the grief that can come with unmet expectations, the courage it takes to embrace a different path, and how God often meets us in the places we least expect. We also dive into topics that are often left unspoken in Christian circles—including ADHD, autism, anxiety, sexual assault, purity culture, and the shame many women carry as a result. Kendall shares how becoming a mother led her to better understand her own neurodivergence and why breaking generational cycles of shame and silence matters for the next generation. Whether you're navigating infertility, struggling with anxiety, questioning your identity, or simply walking through a season that looks different than you imagined, this conversation will remind you that you are not alone—and that God is still at work in your story. Inside this episode, you'll learn: Kendall's infertility journey and path to adoption Living with PCOS, endometriosis, ADHD, and autismThe intersection of faith, anxiety, and shameHow purity culture can impact women's mental and emotional healthBreaking generational cycles of silence and shameThe realities of military spouse life and solo parenting during deploymentFinding community during difficult seasonsLearning to trust God when life doesn't go according to planConnect with Kendall Mariah: Instagram: @kendallmariah Visit her website: https://kendallmariah.com/ Grab a copy of This Little Fire of Mine wherever books are sold. If this episode encouraged you, please share it with a friend who may need the reminder that God is present even in the unexpected chapters of her story.  Resources Mentioned: Joined Postpartum on Purpose Bible Study here Support the show >>To submit a question for future podcasts, click here. >>Don’t forget to follow along over on Instagram at @abridgetomotherhood for more everyday life and postpartum doula tips >>Visit our website: www.abridgetomotherhood.com Leave a Review If you love the podcast, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you’re listening from. After you review the show — take a screenshot and upload it here — so I can send you some happy mail with a little surprise as a thank you. Your feedback means so much to me and helps us reach new moms who desperately need to hear that they are worthy of support! Disclaimer: Some of the links in this episode may be affiliate links, including Amazon links. This means I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you—if you make a purchase through them. Thank you for supporting the show!

    43 min

  2. Jun 16

    66. Beyond the Baby Registry How to Prepare for the Transition to Motherhood with Nina Spears, The Baby Chick®

    Are you preparing for a baby—or preparing to become a mother? So many expecting moms spend months researching baby gear, creating registries, and planning for birth. But one of the biggest transitions often gets overlooked: the transition into motherhood itself. In this episode, I’m joined by Nina Spears, founder and CEO of Baby Chick®, certified baby planner, birth and postpartum doula, childbirth educator, and author of The Baby Chick Guide to Positive Pregnancy. After supporting more than 800 families in person and thousands more virtually, Nina has seen firsthand how many women prepare extensively for their baby's arrival but feel unprepared for the emotional, physical, and identity shifts that come with becoming a mom. In our conversation, Nina shares practical ways to prepare for pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and motherhood so you can feel more confident, supported, and equipped for this life-changing season. 💛 In This Episode, We Cover: Why preparing for motherhood is just as important as preparing for babyThe biggest surprises many women experience after becoming a momHow to prepare mentally, emotionally, and physically for postpartumThe identity shift that often accompanies motherhoodBuilding a support system before your baby arrivesCommon misconceptions about pregnancy, birth, and postpartumWays partners can prepare for the transition into parenthoodHow to create a more positive pregnancy and postpartum experienceWhether you're expecting your first baby or supporting someone who is, this episode offers encouragement, practical wisdom, and reminders that you don't have to navigate motherhood alone. 📚 Resources Mentioned The Baby Chick Guide to Positive PregnancyEnter the Giveway when you preorder the book Closes 6/29/2026🤝 Connect with Nina Spears Baby Chick® WebsiteFollow Nina on InstagramIf this episode encouraged you, share it with an expecting mom who is preparing for more than just baby's arrival—she's preparing for motherhood, too. 💛 Support the show >>To submit a question for future podcasts, click here. >>Don’t forget to follow along over on Instagram at @abridgetomotherhood for more everyday life and postpartum doula tips >>Visit our website: www.abridgetomotherhood.com Leave a Review If you love the podcast, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you’re listening from. After you review the show — take a screenshot and upload it here — so I can send you some happy mail with a little surprise as a thank you. Your feedback means so much to me and helps us reach new moms who desperately need to hear that they are worthy of support! Disclaimer: Some of the links in this episode may be affiliate links, including Amazon links. This means I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you—if you make a purchase through them. Thank you for supporting the show!

    32 min

  3. Jun 9

    65. Why Postpartum Moms Deserve Beautiful, Supportive Essentials with Courtney Boylan

    We spend so much time preparing for baby… but what about preparing for you? In this episode, I’m joined by Courtney Boylan, founder of Le Lolo Postpartum Essentials, a brand on a mission to make postpartum recovery feel more supported, beautiful, and empowering for new moms. After her own experiences as a mom of three, Courtney saw a major gap in the postpartum space—products were functional, but they didn’t make moms feel seen, valued, or cared for. That’s where Le Lolo was born. In this conversation, we talk about why postpartum essentials matter so much, how small things can make a big emotional impact, and why moms deserve products that reflect their worth—not just their needs. This episode is a powerful reminder that self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential, especially in the postpartum season. 💛 In this episode, we cover: The inspiration behind Le Lolo and Courtney’s postpartum journeyWhy beauty and design matter in postpartum productsThe most important postpartum essentials to prepare ahead of timeHow to shift your mindset to prioritize your needs tooWhether you’re pregnant, newly postpartum, or supporting a new mom, this episode will encourage you to prepare for postpartum with intention and care. Connect with Courtney Boylan & Le Lolo: Visit the Website: https://wearelelolo.com/ Instagram: @wearelelolo TikTok: @wearelelolo Facebook: LeLoLo Postpartum Support the show >>To submit a question for future podcasts, click here. >>Don’t forget to follow along over on Instagram at @abridgetomotherhood for more everyday life and postpartum doula tips >>Visit our website: www.abridgetomotherhood.com Leave a Review If you love the podcast, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you’re listening from. After you review the show — take a screenshot and upload it here — so I can send you some happy mail with a little surprise as a thank you. Your feedback means so much to me and helps us reach new moms who desperately need to hear that they are worthy of support! Disclaimer: Some of the links in this episode may be affiliate links, including Amazon links. This means I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you—if you make a purchase through them. Thank you for supporting the show!

    28 min

  4. Jun 2

    64. The 3 Things Every New Mom Needs Postpartum (And None of Them Are on a Registry)

    When you're preparing for a baby, it's easy to focus on the tangible things: the stroller, the bassinet, the swaddles, and the baby monitor. But what if the things you need most postpartum can't be purchased from a registry? In today's episode, we're talking about the three essentials every new mom needs after birth—needs that are often overlooked but have a massive impact on your emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. If you've ever felt overwhelmed, isolated, or unsure of who you are now that you're a mom, this episode is for you. Inside this episode, you'll learn: Why postpartum preparation needs to go beyond baby gearThe emotional support every new mom deservesHow practical help can protect your mental healthWhy staying connected to God matters more than perfection during this seasonSimple ways to prepare for your own needs before baby arrivesWhether you're pregnant, newly postpartum, or supporting a mom in this season, this conversation will help you rethink what it really means to be prepared for life after birth. Resources Mentioned Join my FREE live workshop: Spending Time with God When You Barely Have Time to Shower Sunday, June 7, 2026 at 6:00 PM EST In this free workshop you'll learn: 5 simple ways to make time for Bible study as a busy momHow to stop waiting for the "perfect" moment to spend time with GodA simple Bible study method you can use in just a few minutes a dayHow to stay consistent even when life feels chaoticPlus we'll study Scripture together live and have time for Q&A. Click here to register today! Support the show >>To submit a question for future podcasts, click here. >>Don’t forget to follow along over on Instagram at @abridgetomotherhood for more everyday life and postpartum doula tips >>Visit our website: www.abridgetomotherhood.com Leave a Review If you love the podcast, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you’re listening from. After you review the show — take a screenshot and upload it here — so I can send you some happy mail with a little surprise as a thank you. Your feedback means so much to me and helps us reach new moms who desperately need to hear that they are worthy of support! Disclaimer: Some of the links in this episode may be affiliate links, including Amazon links. This means I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you—if you make a purchase through them. Thank you for supporting the show!

    11 min

  5. May 26

    63. How to Support a Mom with Postpartum Depression: A Grandmother’s Perspective on Mental Health

    This episode is a special and meaningful close to our Maternal Mental Health Month series—a series that has been deeply personal, honest, and rooted in the hope that no mom feels alone in her struggle. Throughout this month, we’ve had important conversations around postpartum mental health: With Brittany Keating of Cocoon and Bloom Collective, we talked about the difference between baby blues and perinatal mental health disorders—what’s normal, what’s not, and when to seek support.I shared my own story—openly and vulnerably—about my experience with postpartum depression, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts.My husband joined me to share what it looked like to support a partner through postpartum mental health struggles.And today, we’re closing this series with a perspective that doesn’t get talked about enough—a mother watching her daughter walk through it. In this episode, I sit down with my mom, the first person I opened up to about my intrusive thoughts, to talk about what that experience was like from her side. We talk about how she knew something wasn’t right, how she helped me find support, and what it looked like to walk alongside me without trying to take over. She shares honestly about the emotional weight of that season, how she educated herself on postpartum mental health, and how she supported not just me—but my husband, too. This conversation is for the moms, the grandmothers, the partners, and the support people—the ones who want to help but may not always know how. 💛 In this episode, we cover: Recognizing when something more serious is going on What it’s like to hear your daughter share intrusive thoughtsNavigating getting professional help for a loved oneSupporting both mom and partner during postpartum strugglesLearning how to step in—and when to step backEncouragement for family members supporting a mom in needThis episode—and this entire series—is a reminder that postpartum mental health matters, and no one is meant to walk through it alone. If you or someone you love is struggling, please know that support is available and healing is possible. 💛 If this series has encouraged you, share it with a mom or support person who needs to hear it.  Resources Mentioned: Down Came the Rain by Brooke Shields Support the show >>To submit a question for future podcasts, click here. >>Don’t forget to follow along over on Instagram at @abridgetomotherhood for more everyday life and postpartum doula tips >>Visit our website: www.abridgetomotherhood.com Leave a Review If you love the podcast, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you’re listening from. After you review the show — take a screenshot and upload it here — so I can send you some happy mail with a little surprise as a thank you. Your feedback means so much to me and helps us reach new moms who desperately need to hear that they are worthy of support! Disclaimer: Some of the links in this episode may be affiliate links, including Amazon links. This means I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you—if you make a purchase through them. Thank you for supporting the show!

    45 min

  6. May 19

    62. How to Support Your Wife Through Postpartum Depression & Anxiety (From a Husband’s Perspective)

    Postpartum depression and anxiety don’t just affect moms—they impact the entire family. But one voice we don’t hear from enough? The husband’s. In today’s episode, my husband joins me to share what it actually looked like from his perspective as I walked through postpartum depression and anxiety. From the early signs he didn’t fully understand, to the moments that felt heavy and uncertain, to the practical ways he learned to support me—this is an honest, behind-the-scenes look at what postpartum can do to a marriage, and how you can walk through it together. We talk about the red flags he noticed (like what he called “nesting on steroids”), the season where I was completely unable to care for our daughter, and what it looked like for him to step in and “just keep the ship from sinking.” He shares what he wishes more husbands knew, including the importance of paying attention to your wife’s emotional state—not just what’s happening on the surface. This conversation is full of practical wisdom for both moms and dads—from how to communicate when emotions are high, to why sometimes the best thing you can do is sit next to her, hold her hand, and simply listen. If you’re in the thick of postpartum, or preparing for it, this episode will help you feel less alone—and give your spouse the tools to support you in a way that actually helps. Because this season? It’s not forever. And you don’t have to navigate it alone. 💛 In This Episode, We Talk About:  What postpartum depression and anxiety looked like in real life  A husband’s perspective on navigating postpartum mental health  Practical ways husbands can show up during this season  Communication struggles (and what actually helps) If this episode encouraged you, supported you, or helped you feel a little less alone, I want to invite you into a space where you don’t have to navigate postpartum by yourself. Join my Postpartum on Purpose Bible Study Community where we walk through this season with faith, support, and real conversations about what motherhood actually looks like. 👉 www.abridgetomotherhood.com/biblestudy Disclaimer + Support Resources This episode is for educational and personal experience purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you or someone you love is struggling, please reach out for support: Postpartum Support International: Call or text 1-800-944-4773988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988You deserve support. Full stop. Support the show >>To submit a question for future podcasts, click here. >>Don’t forget to follow along over on Instagram at @abridgetomotherhood for more everyday life and postpartum doula tips >>Visit our website: www.abridgetomotherhood.com Leave a Review If you love the podcast, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you’re listening from. After you review the show — take a screenshot and upload it here — so I can send you some happy mail with a little surprise as a thank you. Your feedback means so much to me and helps us reach new moms who desperately need to hear that they are worthy of support! Disclaimer: Some of the links in this episode may be affiliate links, including Amazon links. This means I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you—if you make a purchase through them. Thank you for supporting the show!

    23 min

  7. May 12

    61. From Postpartum Depression to Postpartum Doula: How the Lord Healed Me and Grew My Business

    In this deeply personal episode, I’m sharing more of my own postpartum story — from walking through postpartum depression and anxiety to finding healing, purpose, and eventually building a business supporting other moms in the season I once struggled through myself. We talk about what it looked like to wrestle with fear, identity shifts, and mental health challenges after becoming a mom, while also learning how the Lord was gently rebuilding my confidence, strengthening my faith, and calling me into the work I do today. If you’re in a hard postpartum season right now, I hope this episode reminds you that healing is possible, support matters, and you are not forgotten in motherhood. Whether you are struggling emotionally, feeling overwhelmed by the transition into motherhood, or wondering how God could possibly use your story for good, this conversation is for you. Disclaimer: This podcast episode is for educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please reach out to a qualified healthcare provider for personalized medical or mental health support. Need support? Postpartum Support International HelpLine: Call or Text: 1-800-944-4773 Text in English: 800-944-4773 Text en Español: 971-203-7773 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or Text 988 If this episode encouraged you and you’re looking for faith-based postpartum support, encouragement, and community, join the Postpartum on Purpose Bible Study Community here: www.abridgetomotherhood.com/biblestudy  Support the show >>To submit a question for future podcasts, click here. >>Don’t forget to follow along over on Instagram at @abridgetomotherhood for more everyday life and postpartum doula tips >>Visit our website: www.abridgetomotherhood.com Leave a Review If you love the podcast, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you’re listening from. After you review the show — take a screenshot and upload it here — so I can send you some happy mail with a little surprise as a thank you. Your feedback means so much to me and helps us reach new moms who desperately need to hear that they are worthy of support! Disclaimer: Some of the links in this episode may be affiliate links, including Amazon links. This means I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you—if you make a purchase through them. Thank you for supporting the show!

    52 min

  8. May 5

    60. Baby Blues vs Postpartum Anxiety and Depression How to Know When to Get Help with Brittany Keating

    Are what you’re feeling normal postpartum emotions… or could it be something more? In this episode, I’m joined by Brittany Keating, a Licensed Professional Clinical  Counselor (LPCC) with a perinatal mental health certification (PMH-C) and founder of Cocoon and Bloom Collective, to unpack a question so many moms quietly wonder about: What’s the difference between baby blues and a perinatal mental health disorder? We talk through what the baby blues can look like, how they differ from postpartum depression and anxiety, and what signs may indicate it’s time to reach out for support. Brittany also helps normalize some of the symptoms moms may feel scared to talk about—like intrusive thoughts, irritability, rage, or overwhelming anxiety—and reminds us these experiences are common, treatable, and nothing to be ashamed of. If you’ve ever questioned whether what you’re feeling is “just part of new motherhood,” this conversation offers clarity, validation, and hope. In this episode, we cover: The difference between baby blues and perinatal mood disordersHow long baby blues typically lastSigns it may be time to seek supportWhat postpartum anxiety and intrusive thoughts can look likeHow therapy can support healing in the postpartum seasonThis episode is a reminder that getting support is not a sign something is wrong with you—it’s a sign you deserve care, too. For medical emergencies, contact your healthcare provider or call 911. For mental health crises, call or text 988.  Connect with Brittany Keating  Website: https://www.cocoonandbloomcollective.com/ Follow her on Instagram @cocoonandbloomcollective Follow her on Facebook Email her: brittanyk@cocconandbloomcollective.com 💛 If this episode encourages you, share it with a mom who may need this reminder: she is not alone.  Resources Mentioned: Download The Postpartum Mental Health Toolkit Support the show >>To submit a question for future podcasts, click here. >>Don’t forget to follow along over on Instagram at @abridgetomotherhood for more everyday life and postpartum doula tips >>Visit our website: www.abridgetomotherhood.com Leave a Review If you love the podcast, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you’re listening from. After you review the show — take a screenshot and upload it here — so I can send you some happy mail with a little surprise as a thank you. Your feedback means so much to me and helps us reach new moms who desperately need to hear that they are worthy of support! Disclaimer: Some of the links in this episode may be affiliate links, including Amazon links. This means I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you—if you make a purchase through them. Thank you for supporting the show!

    26 min
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About

A Bridge to Motherhood Podcast helps Christian moms navigate pregnancy, birth, and postpartum with practical, evidence-based support and faith-filled encouragement. Hosted by Danielle Bruner—mom of two and birth & postpartum doula—this podcast offers honest conversations, expert insights, and simple strategies to help you feel prepared, supported, and confident in early motherhood. From postpartum planning and birth recovery to mental health, routines, and relationships, each episode blends real-life motherhood with biblical truth—reminding you that your identity is rooted in Christ, not perfection. You’ll learn how to:  Prepare for postpartum during pregnancy  Heal physically and emotionally after birth  Support your mental health (postpartum anxiety & depression)  Build routines, boundaries, and support systems  Strengthen your marriage and family rhythms  Grow in your faith during motherhood  If you’re looking for practical guidance, encouragement, and a Christ-centered perspective on motherhood—you’re in the right place. New episodes drop weekly. Subscribe and start thriving in motherhood—without the pressure to do it perfectly. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for your unique needs.

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