I just need some time to decompress when I get back home from work....

"I just need some time to decompress when I get back home from work..."

In this triggering episode of Shameless Parenting, hosts Ryan and Steph tackle the age-old struggle many new parents face: finding balance between work, support, and mental health. A listener's question prompts a deep dive into the delicate dynamics of parental leave, returning to work, and managing family responsibilities.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• Ryan and Steph share insights into the universal challenges of balancing work with parental responsibilities, providing personal anecdotes that reflect both sides of the coin.
• The critical importance of empathy and understanding between partners during parental leave, maternity leave, and the return-to-work transition.
• Tips for navigating the exhaustion, frustration, and emotional toll of caregiving while maintaining strong family bonds.
• Practical advice for men on how to transition smoothly from work to family life, and the concept of "micro transitions."
• Real talk on the pros and cons of paternity leave policies and how stigma still impacts fathers seeking more equitable family roles.

Best and Worst Parenting Tips:

• Best: Save up and plan a "Return-to-Work Wardrobe Shopping Spree" to boost confidence and get clothes that fit your postpartum body perfectly.
• Worst: The tricky challenge of breastfeeding while returning to work and the often awkward logistics of pumping in the workplace.

Best and Worst Products from This Week's Episode:

• Ceres Insulated Bottle: A sleek and practical insulated bottle to store breastmilk or formula safely.

Resources Mentioned:

• The Third Space by Adam Fraser: Learn about "micro transitions" to help shift gears between work, family, and personal life.

Listener Support: The best way to support the show is to become a subscriber! Join the family and subscribe to Shameless Parenting to receive bonus episodes, merch drops, exclusive social events, and early access to our parenting product launches!
👉 Subscribe Now

Connect with Us:

• Instagram: @ShamelessParenting
• Twitter: @ShamelessParenting