Reproductively Speaking

Taryn Zweygardt
  • 5.0 (6)
  • MENTAL HEALTH

Parenthood is messy, beautiful, exhausting, and transformative - sometimes all before breakfast. Each episode, join Taryn Zweygardt, therapist and certified perinatal mental health specialist, for real and relatable conversations about the challenges and joys of parenthood. From identity shifts to mental health struggles, you’ll hear deep, honest talks, expert guidance, and inspiring stories that remind you - you're NOT alone. Reproductively Speaking is here to help you nurture your mind, your relationships, and yourself, one episode at a time. Connect with Taryn on Instagram @tztherapy Learn more about working with Taryn: https://www.tztherapy.com

Episodes

  1. 1D AGO

    7. Why the Overstimulated Version of You in Motherhood Isn’t the Whole Story

    Send us a text Today’s episode is a little different. I wrote a poem that came out of one of my ugliest, hardest moments as a mom.  Yep, I’m talking about those awful moments where overstimulation takes over…and I don’t recognize myself anymore.  If you’re a mom who loves your kids fiercely, never wanting to be an “angry parent,” but…you find yourself overwhelmed, exhausted, and drowning in guilt afterward? You’re in the right place, because I'm right there with you! Overstimulation isn’t a character flaw - it’s a nervous system response. Your reactions like yelling, shutting down, or numbing by scrolling on your phone don’t mean you’re broken or unloving. They mean your body is overwhelmed AF! If you’re listening and feel tapped out, overstimulated, or like you’re barely holding it together, you’re NOT failing. Your nervous system deserves care, and you're allowed to ask for help before you hit empty, friend! Episode Recap: A real & raw poem I wrote during one of my most difficult motherhood momentsWhy overstimulation in motherhood isn’t a personal failureThe 3 categories our nervous system shifts into when we’re overstimulatedUnderstanding that lasting harm doesn’t come from being “imperfect”What repair really is + why it doesn’t have to be big or dramaticWhy cycles break when we do things differently (even if mistakes still happen)Why learning your early warning signs of overstimulation can help SO muchSimple regulation tools you can use to create space between feelings & reactionsHow parenting in isolation in today’s society makes overstimulation even heavierWhy asking for help isn’t indulgent, but survivalRealizing the version of you that shows up when you’re overstimulated is NOT the whole story  **Disclaimer: The content shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for therapy or mental health care. If you’re struggling or need support, please reach out to a licensed mental health professional in your area, because you don’t have to go through it alone. Links/Resources: Ep. 6 | How to Protect Your Peace As a Parent in the Age of Information OverwhelmCheck out Tiffany Harlan and Mvmt FitnessFollow on Instagram @tztherapyCheck out my website

    37 min

  2. DEC 15

    6. How to Protect Your Peace As a Parent In the Age of Information Overwhelm

    Send us a text Ever found yourself awake at 10:47 p.m., the house finally quiet, doomscrolling your way through a spiral of “parenting tips” that somehow convince you you’re destroying your child’s future over a toothbrush?  If so, HI, you’re in good company! I hear this all the time in sessions, and honestly, I’m in it too. We’re the first generation of parents who’ve been handed oceans of contradictory information at all hours of the day, on so many platforms. Instead of feeling empowered, most of us feel inadequate, anxious, and convinced we’re already behind. It’s not because we’re weak. It’s because our brains were NEVER meant to process parenting through a firehose! Our nervous system is experiencing overstimulation, and is desperately trying to protect us. It’s exhausting! If you feel like you’re drowning in parenting content, here’s your permission to slow down, unfollow accounts that spike your anxiety, and intentionally choose what you consume. After all, YOU are your child’s expert, and you’re already a “good mom”! Episode Recap: Why today’s parents are overwhelmed AFHow our nervous system interprets online “scary posts” as real threats + what this leads toThe REAL root of overwhelmThe pressure modern parents feel to raise flawless, emotionally perfect kidsThe power of repair in parent-child relationships + how simple, honest moments rebuild connectionA personal example of repair with my daughter5 ways to help yourself when you feel like you're drowning in parenting infoWhy you DON’T have to earn the title of “good mom” **Disclaimer: The content shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for therapy or mental health care. If you’re struggling or need support, please reach out to a licensed mental health professional in your area, because you don’t have to go through it alone. Links/Resources: Good Inside by Dr. Becky KennedyFollow on Instagram @tztherapyCheck out my website

    36 min

  3. DEC 1

    5. Why “Good Enough” Might Be the Best Gift You Give Your Family This Holiday Season

    Send us a text If you’re already feeling stretched thin, overstimulated, or one minor inconvenience away from screaming into a pillow this holiday season…you’re in the right place. I personally love the holidays (especially Christmas), but once I became a parent, this “magical” season started feeling a whole lot more like a juggling act.  Moms don’t “experience” the holidays - we project-manage the holidays. We’re the magic makers, tradition keepers, schedulers, gift trackers, the emotional barometers. Yeah...it's a LOT of labor to carry quietly. Unfortunately, that pressure can become too much, so many of us fall into the trap of trying to create the “perfect” holiday. Spoiler alert though - that doesn’t exist, and your kids don’t care about perfection. Sometimes, the most magical thing you can give your family is a slower moment and a calmer, less frazzled version of yourself. Presence over perfection, friend - take a breath, and keep it simple this holiday season! Episode Recap: Why the holidays feel heavier and more stressful once you become a parentThe emotional labor moms carry during the seasonHow perfection steals presenceThe power of choosing a “good enough” holiday over a “perfect” onePractical boundaries to protect your peaceWhy you’re NOT responsible for other people’s disappointment when you set boundariesUnderstanding overstimulation for parents + how to support your nervous systemSmall ways to support you + your kids during busy daysGiving yourself permission to simplify traditions OR create new ones that fit your seasonHow to communicate with your partner & share the holiday load before the chaos hitsLetting go of unnecessary pressure & realizing that your family needs YOU **Disclaimer: The content shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for therapy or mental health care. If you’re struggling or need support, please reach out to a licensed mental health professional in your area, because you don’t have to go through it alone. Links/Resources: Follow on Instagram @tztherapyCheck out my website

    24 min

  4. NOV 17

    4. The Quiet Comparison Game: How Imposter Syndrome Shows Up in Motherhood

    Send us a text If you’ve ever caught yourself thinking, “Who the hell let me be in charge of these tiny humans?!”, you’re NOT alone.  In today’s episode, we’re talking about something that sooo many moms quietly carry, but rarely name out loud: imposter syndrome. It’s that voice that whispers you’re not doing enough, you’re not patient enough, and you’re not “good” enough. The truth is, most of us are just trying to keep it together, and honestly, we’re doing the best we can! Imposter syndrome often shows up during transitions. It thrives in the unknown and feeds off comparison - especially in our social-media-driven world.  The thing about motherhood though? It’s NOT a performance review, and it’s not something you can “ace”. You grow through it, one imperfect day at a time! If you find yourself struggling with imposter syndrome, I want to encourage you to find evidence of your “enoughness” in the small (but very real) moments of your life. Ultimately, a present mom will always beat a perfect one, and you ARE enough as you are! Episode Recap: How imposter syndrome actually often shows up in motherhoodWhy imposter syndrome tends to hit hardest during big transitionsWhy motherhood isn’t a performance review or a test you can “ace”How overcompensating to prove yourself often leads to burnout &  the shame loopHow social media can both normalize motherhood struggles + also fuel comparison & self-doubtRealizing that the moms who seem to “have it all together” struggle tooWays to work through imposter syndrome & rewrite the narrative Why a present mom is always better than a perfect one **Disclaimer: The content shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for therapy or mental health care. If you’re struggling or need support, please reach out to a licensed mental health professional in your area, because you don’t have to go through it alone. Links/Resources: Ep. 3 | What “The Mental Load” Really Looks Like (and Why It’s So Damn Heavy)Follow on Instagram @tztherapyCheck out my website

    23 min

  5. NOV 3

    3. What “The Mental Load” Really Looks Like (and Why It’s So Damn Heavy)

    Send us a text Let’s talk about something most of us are deeply familiar with, but have a hard time naming: the mental load of parenthood.  It’s that constant “hum” in your brain - the never-ending to-do list of appointments, permission slips, groceries, school lunches, and sooo much more. It’s not just the physical tasks - it’s the THINKING about the tasks. You’re not imagining it - that invisible project management role is REAL, and it’s freaking exhausting! Over time, this load builds up from the decision fatigue, irritability, and rage that comes from the littlest things. It’s not that your partner doesn’t care - it’s that many of us were socialized to anticipate everyone’s needs, hold everything together, and never let anyone down. If you’re thinking “If I don’t do it, it won’t get done”, I get it. I’ve been there too.  This invisible mental load you’re walking around and carrying isn’t something we should “just be grateful for” (sorry, society) - it’s a LOT. You’re human, so it’s okay to set it down for a bit, and take a well-deserved break! Episode Recap: What the mental load really means + how it shows up in everyday lifeWhy “helping” with tasks isn’t the same as sharing the mental loadHow this invisible weight builds up over time & leads to resentment or rageThe role of socialization + why many women become the “default parent”Practical ways to make the mental load visible AND redistribute itHelpful tools that can support your familyWhy rest isn’t a reward (it’s a necessity)Realizing that you’re NOT broken or lazy - you’re just carrying a lot **Disclaimer: The content shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for therapy or mental health care. If you’re struggling or need support, please reach out to a licensed mental health professional in your area, because you don’t have to go through it alone. Links/Resources: Fair Play by Eve RodskyFollow on Instagram @tztherapyCheck out my website

    24 min

  6. NOV 3

    2. You’re Not Lost, You’re Becoming: The Messy & Beautiful “Middle” of Motherhood

    Send us a text Motherhood changes EVERYTHING, but not *just* in the obvious ways. It’s not only about the baby coming home, or the routines that shift. It’s about the invisible transitions that shake us up from the inside out.  As women, we pour so much love into our babies, but somewhere along the way, we start to wonder, “Who the hell am I now?”  That identity shift is sooo real, and it’s something so many moms experience, but rarely talk about. But you know what? We’re NOT broken - we’re becoming! Motherhood is painted as this blissful, picture-perfect season of joy. The truth though? It’s both beautiful AND incredibly hard. Everything shifts, and you’re continuing to figure out this new version of yourself in this messy “middle” stage. I hope this episode reminds you that you can adore motherhood and not enjoy every moment. After all, motherhood isn’t about erasing who you were - it’s about expanding who you are! Episode Recap: The many invisible transitions that happen when a woman becomes a momThe cultural myth of “perfect motherhood”What matrescence really means + why this messy, middle stage of motherhood mattersThe many layers of “change” that come with motherhoodWhy there’s no such thing as “bouncing back” + how to embrace moving forward insteadGiving yourself permission to grieve your old life AND love your new oneHow to reconnect with who you’re becoming + redefine what productivity & purpose look like nowSimple reflection questions to help you integrate this new version of yourselfA reminder that your baby isn’t the only one growing **Disclaimer: The content shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for therapy or mental health care. If you’re struggling or need support, please reach out to a licensed mental health professional in your area, because you don’t have to go through it alone. Links/Resources: Postpartum Support InternationalFollow on Instagram @tztherapyCheck out my website

    23 min

  7. NOV 3

    1. When Motherhood Doesn’t Look Anything Like You Expected

    Send us a text Motherhood was always something I looked forward to. I dreamed about it, romanticized it, and thought I knew exactly what to expect. But…when it actually happened, it was NOTHING like the picture I had in my head. I loved my baby so much, but I didn’t recognize myself anymore. I soon had two kids under two, and outwardly, I probably looked fine. On the inside though? I was drowning.  As a licensed therapist, I knew the signs of anxiety and depression, yet no one ever asked how I was really doing. I wasn’t offered a screening or support, and I convinced myself I just needed to “try harder” or maybe I wasn’t really cut out for motherhood afterall. That experience cracked something open in me. It’s what led me to the work I do today - supporting women through the emotional earthquake that is motherhood. We deserve to talk honestly about what we’re feeling, and the messy, complicated emotions that come with being a parent. I created Reproductively Speaking so we DO have a space for the very real, unfiltered conversations about motherhood, identity, and mental health. I definitely don’t have it all figured out, but I’m here to walk with you. You’re NOT on this journey alone, friend! Episode Recap: The emotional “earthquake” that happens when motherhood looks nothing like you expectedMy raw story of navigating early motherhood with two babies just 13 months apartThe loneliness & guilt that so many moms quietly experience beneath the surfaceWhy mental-health professionals can struggle + how that inspired my missionThe vision behind Reproductively Speaking **Disclaimer: The content shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for therapy or mental health care. If you’re struggling or need support, please reach out to a licensed mental health professional in your area, because you don’t have to go through it alone. Links/Resources: Follow on Instagram @tztherapyCheck out my website

    13 min

  8. OCT 20

    Welcome to Reproductively Speaking!

    Send us a text Parenthood changes everything - your routines, your relationships, your career, and even your sense of self. But…what if those changes could actually become a source of purpose and wellbeing? Hosted by Taryn Zweygardt, therapist and perinatal mental health specialist, Reproductively Speaking is a space for honest conversations about the parts of parenthood that don’t always make it into everyday talk (but, we’re going there)! Whether you’re up in the middle of the night, figuring out new routines, or just looking for a place where your journey feels seen and validated, you’re in the RIGHT place. Join Taryn each week (new episodes drop every Monday) as we navigate this season of life together, with honesty, compassion, and a little humor along the way! Connect with Taryn on Instagram @tztherapy Learn more about working with Taryn by visiting her website

    1 min
  • 8 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Parenthood is messy, beautiful, exhausting, and transformative - sometimes all before breakfast. Each episode, join Taryn Zweygardt, therapist and certified perinatal mental health specialist, for real and relatable conversations about the challenges and joys of parenthood. From identity shifts to mental health struggles, you’ll hear deep, honest talks, expert guidance, and inspiring stories that remind you - you're NOT alone. Reproductively Speaking is here to help you nurture your mind, your relationships, and yourself, one episode at a time. Connect with Taryn on Instagram @tztherapy Learn more about working with Taryn: https://www.tztherapy.com

Information

  • Creator
    Taryn Zweygardt
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    8
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Reproductively Speaking
  • Show Website
    Reproductively Speaking

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