Momming as a Millennial

Christine Giarrizzo

Welcome to Momming as a Millennial, the podcast where we dive into the challenges and triumphs of being a millennial mom in today's dynamic world. Join us on this candid journey as we navigate the complexities of motherhood, from tackling outdated stereotypes, to embracing our individual parenting styles. In each episode, we explore the intersection of tradition and modern parenting. We dissect unsolicited advice and internet noise, as well as gender roles and expectations handed down by our parents and grandparents, in order to find what resonates with our true, authentic selves. Tune in for honest conversations, genuine stories, expert insights, and a supportive community that understands the unique challenges of navigating parenthood as a millennial mama. Together we'll rewrite the narrative, challenge societal norms, and celebrate the diverse voices that make up the mosaic of our generation. Your host, Christine Giarrizzo, is a journalist, blogger, and mother of two young children. She is passionate about sharing her parental journey with authenticity, purpose, and resilience. Join her as she charts her own path and redefines what it means to be a mom in the millennial era. Read Christine's blogs at contemplativemama.com and follow her on Instagram:@contemplativemama1

  1. 16 APR

    26. The healing power of creativity after cancer and loss - with Lisamarie Pearson

    In this episode, we're talking about what resilience looks like in real life—not the polished version, but the gritty, painful, keep-going-anyway kind. My guest, Lisamarie Pearson, shares her journey through a life-altering diagnosis, losing her grandmother, and the identity shift that followed. In the middle of it all, she rediscovered a skill her grandmother taught her: how to sew.  What started as an outlet quickly became a lifeline, and eventually, a purpose-driven business creating her now-beloved "octopals." If you've ever felt lost in survival mode, unsure of who you are anymore, or craving something that feels like you again—this conversation will remind you it's never too late to start over. Lisamarie is the founder of Scatterbrain Toys, where she creates sensory-friendly plush toys designed to inspire creativity and bring comfort and joy. In this episode, we cover:  The emotional toll of navigating cancer and grief at the same time. The identity shift that happens after trauma, and how to rebuild from it. How creativity can become a powerful tool for healing. The mental load of motherhood and running a business—and why time feels so limited. One thing all entrepreneur mamas should be doing.  Lisamarie's favorite self-care routine. Full body cleanse anyone?    Connect with Lisamarie: Follow on Instagram Check out her website   Connect with Christine: Follow on Instagram Follow on TikTok  Check out my website   Be sure to subscribe/follow so you never miss an episode!

    45 min
  2. 6 FEB

    24. Mental Load of Motherhood: Invisible labor, burnout, and being the default parent

    In this episode I'm discussing the invisible labor and mental load that so many moms carry. From Elf on the Shelf expectations to middle-of-the-night to-do lists, this episode names the unseen work that keeps families running and why it so often falls on the mamas. I break down what invisible labor and mental load actually mean, how traditional gender roles still quietly shape parenting dynamics, and why so many moms feel like their brains are stuck on an endless hamster wheel. If you're exhausted, overwhelmed, and wondering why it feels like everything depends on you, this episode is for you. In this episode, we cover:  What invisible labor and mental load actually are, and why they drain you in ways you can't quite explain. How cultural expectations assign moms household responsibility we never signed up for. The unseen responsibilities millennial moms like you are quietly carrying every single day. One thing you can do today to start lightening your mental load.    Resources & Links: Here's a resource to help you uncover the invisible tasks that are weighing you down, so you can start making lasting changes today.  If you're ready to go deeper—untangling your mental load while making space for your creativity, your desires, your joy, and your purpose—I've got you. Your Guided Journey to Self-Discovery + Fulfillment is designed to help you reclaim your time, reconnect with what lights you up, and rediscover who you are beyond momming. DM me "Fulfillment" on Instagram to learn more.    Connect with Christine: Follow on Instagram Follow on TikTok  Check out my website   Be sure to subscribe/follow so you never miss an episode!

    12 min
  3. 1 JAN

    23. Different names, same Divine: How religion and intuition coexist - with Jenn Barton

    Intuition and faith don't have to be at odds. In this episode, I sat down with Jenn Barton, co-owner of Nickel City Moss & Moon and intuitive guide, to explore spirituality through a unifying, judgment-free lens. Together, we unpack the idea that intuition is a universal human gift, not something mystical, taboo, or to be feared. Jenn opens up about discovering her intuitive abilities, and offers insight on how to recognize your own intuitive voice, nurture your gifts, and trust the path that brings you into alignment. If you're looking for guidance but not sure where to turn, this conversation will empower you to stay curious, open, and confident in the Divine nudge already within you.  In this episode, we cover:  Everyone has intuitive gifts. Here's how you uncover yours. How Divine guidance is an internal source of trust, clarity, and direction. Why intuition isn't woo woo or something to fear—it's something we're all born with. Vision boards. Spoiler: we've been doing it wrong. Jenn shares a simple, foolproof way to create alignment, not pressure. Jenn's #1 piece of advice for millennial moms seeking their most authentic, soul-aligned selves.   Connect with Jenn:  Send her an email   Follow on Instagram Check out her website   Connect with Christine: Follow on Instagram Follow on TikTok  Check out my website   Be sure to subscribe/follow so you never miss an episode!

    56 min
  4. 07/11/2025

    22. From Baby Pics to TikTok Teens: Protecting Our Kids in a Digital World - with Prof. Joana Gaia

    Today we're diving into one of the trickiest parts of modern parenting—raising kids in the digital age. From posting baby photos to getting them their first phone, the Internet is woven into every stage of our children's lives. But how do we balance sharing and connection with privacy and protection?   Joining me for this conversation is Professor Joana Gaia, Clinical Assistant Professor of Management Science and Systems at the University at Buffalo School of Management.    She shares why our online and offline lives shouldn't be treated as separate worlds, and how applying the same social rules to both can help us raise more self-aware, digitally responsible kids.    If you've ever second-guessed sharing that cute photo, felt uneasy about your child's screen habits, or wondered how to keep up with AI, this episode is your roadmap for navigating it all.   In this episode, we cover:  The real risks (and realities) of AI, from deepfakes to data collection, and what parents can actually do to stay ahead. Don't panic! Joana breaks down what data fraudsters really want (and it's not what most parents think). The most overlooked online safety tool that can make a huge difference in protecting your child's privacy. Why "just say no to screen time" isn't the answer. And the guilt-free permission we've been waiting for!  Plus, Joana shares the unexpected online game she uses in her classes to teach project management.   Connect with Joana:  Through the University at Buffalo    Connect with Christine: Follow on Instagram Follow on TikTok  Check out my website   Be sure to subscribe/follow so you never miss an episode!

    1hr 23min
  5. 04/10/2025

    21. Uncovering Your True Self and Moving Beyond Fear using Human Design - with Kristin Quattlebaum

    In this episode, I'm joined by Human Design expert Kristin Quattlebaum, who shares how this powerful framework can help us uncover our true selves and move beyond fear and conditioning. Kristin not only reads my Human Design, but also reveals why I've always been driven to hustle yet never quite felt satisfied. Together, we explore themes of worthiness, courage, and building new pathways to trust ourselves and act in alignment. If you've ever wondered: Am I on the right path? or Am I doing enough? This conversation will help you begin to boldly walk in fear, trust your inner nudges, and step into the life you were designed to live. Or as Kristin puts it, "be who the f*** you're supposed to be." In this episode, we cover:  The one powerful step you can take to begin answering: Who am I, really? The surprising way Human Design uncovers parts of you that feel hard to explain. How to trust those inner nudges guiding you to your true self, even when your mind resists.  Masculine and feminine energetics: how both live in us and shape our relationships.  Why worthiness isn't earned, and what Kristin says about stepping into it right now. What's secretly stopping you from taking action, and how to finally move forward with courage.   Resources & Links: Here's the Strength Finders Assessment Kristin mentioned if you're interested in taking it.  This is the book Kristin referred to: How to Love Yourself (and Sometimes Other People): Spiritual Advice for Modern Relationships, by Lodro Rinzler and Meggan Watterson   Connect with Kristin:  Follow on Instagram View her website   Connect with Christine: Follow on Instagram Follow on TikTok  Check out my website   Be sure to subscribe/follow so you never miss an episode!

    1hr 3min
  6. 06/08/2025

    19. The Future of Women's Health: Fighting Misinformation, with Dr. Nina Strollo

    In this episode, I'm delighted to sit down with Dr. Nina Strollo, a board-certified OB/GYN, for an unfiltered conversation about the growing crisis in women's health care. Nothing is off-limits. We dive into how the current political climate is stripping away access to reproductive care. And Dr. Strollo sheds light on how a broken medical system, compounded by the spread of misinformation on social media, is putting women's health at risk.  We also confront the realities of medical gaslighting and gender bias in exam rooms. Now, more than ever, finding a trusted provider and reliable information is essential. Dr. Strollo encourages women to be skeptical, stay curious, ask questions, and protect their right to informed, evidence-based care. And support each other!    In this episode, we cover:  How legislative attacks and policy changes are rolling back women's rights and forcing doctors into impossible decisions. The dangerous ripple effect misinformation can have when it reaches the exam room.  How we can empower the next generation of girls to make informed, confident choices about their own bodies. The most exciting thing going on in women's medicine right now, according to Dr. Strollo.  The ONE simple action we can all take today to drive meaningful change in women's lives.    Resources & Links: Women's health has been overlooked for decades. Hopefully that's changing. Research on perimenopause and menopause seems to be ramping up.    Connect with Dr. Strollo:  Follow on Instagram    Connect with Christine: Follow on Instagram Follow on TikTok  Check out my website   Be sure to subscribe/follow so you never miss an episode!

    55 min

About

Welcome to Momming as a Millennial, the podcast where we dive into the challenges and triumphs of being a millennial mom in today's dynamic world. Join us on this candid journey as we navigate the complexities of motherhood, from tackling outdated stereotypes, to embracing our individual parenting styles. In each episode, we explore the intersection of tradition and modern parenting. We dissect unsolicited advice and internet noise, as well as gender roles and expectations handed down by our parents and grandparents, in order to find what resonates with our true, authentic selves. Tune in for honest conversations, genuine stories, expert insights, and a supportive community that understands the unique challenges of navigating parenthood as a millennial mama. Together we'll rewrite the narrative, challenge societal norms, and celebrate the diverse voices that make up the mosaic of our generation. Your host, Christine Giarrizzo, is a journalist, blogger, and mother of two young children. She is passionate about sharing her parental journey with authenticity, purpose, and resilience. Join her as she charts her own path and redefines what it means to be a mom in the millennial era. Read Christine's blogs at contemplativemama.com and follow her on Instagram:@contemplativemama1