If I Knew Then: Mom Edition

Maria Moreno | Mindful Mother
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Parenting
  • Updated Biweekly

If I Knew Then: Mom Edition is the podcast where moms get real. Raw, emotional, and sometimes hilariously honest, this is the space for the lessons we learned the hard way, the things we wish someone had told us, and the truths we’re still figuring out. From sleep-deprived nights to identity shifts, healing, heartbreak, and toddler negotiations that feel like hostage situations, this is unfiltered motherhood.

  1. 11/24/2025

    PCOS, Hysterectomy & Hope: A Raw Conversation Every Woman Needs to Hear

    In this powerful episode of If I Knew Then: Mom Edition, Maria and Alecia dive into the raw realities of motherhood—unexpected pregnancies, infertility struggles, PCOS, hysterectomy recovery, emotional healing, and the self-advocacy women desperately need in the medical system. Alecia opens up about her journey from multiple false pregnancies to rebuilding confidence and becoming a life coach who now helps women reclaim their voice, self-worth, and inner strength. This episode is honest, emotional, and empowering—reminding every mother that her story matters. 👩‍💻 About the Guest: Alecia Henderson is a women’s life coach helping mothers rebuild confidence, heal emotionally, and step into their power. After navigating infertility, PCOS, unexpected pregnancies, and a hysterectomy, she now empowers women through mindset work, emotional support, and self-advocacy.📧 Free eBook: Email thealeciaeffect@gmail.comIG: @aleciahenderson6FB: Alecia HendersonTikTok: @aleciahenderson @thealeciaeffect 👩‍💻 About the Host: Hosted by Maria Moreno, certified pediatric sleep consultant, coach, educator, and founder of Mindful Mother. I help moms reclaim rest, confidence, and calm, without guilt. From sleep plans and eBooks to coaching and community, my mission is to support the entire journey of motherhood, from newborns to the preschool years and beyond. 🌐 Work with me + Resources: ➤ Sleep training & parenting support 📲 Stay Connected: Instagram: @mindfulmother_sleepInstagram: @tumagoInstagram: @ifiknewthenpodcastFacebook: Mindful MotherTikTok: @mindfulmother_sleepYouTube: If I Knew Then Podcast 🛒 Products & Partnerships: Sensory Blankets: https://www.etsy.com/shop/TumagoPacifier: Soothebeginningshttps://soothebeginnings.com/products/soothe-beginnings-pacifier-starter-kit?sca_ref=8172596.eF2ZuRFJfE&sca_source=M.M.SOOTHESavings & Investing: Sofihttps://www.sofi.com/invite/money?gcp=58790401-992a-4904-b797-84a2c3fc1835&isAliasGcp=falseBudgeting: Monarchhttps://www.monarchmoney.com/referral/3rgiubpwo8?r_source=share🎧 Listen on All Podcast Platforms: SpotifyApple PodcastsAmazon MusiciHeartRadioGoodpods Thank you for tuning in! If this episode gave you a fresh perspective, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share it with a parent who needs to hear this. ⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast shares personal experiences and insights for educational and supportive purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, therapy, or counseling. Always consult with your pediatrician or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your child’s needs.

    24 min

  2. 11/12/2025

    The Mother You Needed — Becoming Her for Your Children

    In this episode of the If I Knew Then, Mom Edition podcast, host Maria Moreno and guest Lara Bokovay delve into the complexities of motherhood, exploring themes such as childhood memories, the impact of parenting on children, and the importance of conscious parenting. They discuss the challenges of maternal instincts, the journey of self-awareness in parenting, and the significance of accountability in shaping a child's environment. The conversation emphasizes the need for parents to understand their own behaviors and reactions, and how these influence their children's development. Through personal anecdotes and insights, they provide valuable tips for navigating the ups and downs of parenting, ultimately encouraging a mindful and present approach to raising children.🎙 ABOUT THE GUEST - Lara BokovayLara Bokovay is a woman, a mother, and an intuitive coach and nervous system guide whose journey through burnout, betrayal, and solo motherhood powers her work. She supports moms in healing ancestral and childhood wounds, setting loving yet firm boundaries, and rebuilding their lives with presence, softness, and deep inner trust. IG- @larabokovay 🎙 ABOUT THE HOST — Maria MorenoCertified pediatric sleep consultant, motherhood coach, educator & founder of Mindful Mother — helping moms reclaim rest, confidence, and calm without guilt. Work With Me + Resources:https://calendly.com/mindfulmother/freeconsultationhttps://www.mindfulmother.biz/Sleep plans • eBooks • Coaching IG: @mindfulmother_sleep · @tumago · @ifiknewthenpodcastFacebook: Mindful Mother · TikTok: @mindfulmother_sleepYouTube: If I Knew Then Podcast Products & Partnerships:Blankets — Tumago ▶ https://www.etsy.com/shop/TumagoPacifier — Soothe Beginnings ▶ https://soothebeginnings.com/products/soothe-beginnings-pacifier-starter-kit?sca_ref=8172596.eF2ZuRFJfE&sca_source=M.M.SOOTHESavings — Sofi ▶ https://www.sofi.com/invite/money?gcp=58790401-992a-4904-b797-84a2c3fc1835&isAliasGcp=falseBudgeting — Monarch ▶ https://www.monarchmoney.com/referral/3rgiubpwo8?r_source=share 🎧 Available on: Spotify · Apple Podcasts · Amazon Music · iHeartRadio · Goodpods If this episode gave you a new perspective, don’t forget to like, subscribe & share it with a mom who needs to hear this. ⚠ Disclaimer: This conversation is for support and education only, not medical advice. Always consult a licensed professional for personal guidance.

    45 min

  3. 11/12/2025

    Navigating Fatherhood: Building BirthBridge for New Parents

    In this Dad’s Edition Special of the If I Knew Then, Mom Edition podcast, host Maria Moreno sits down with Nathaniel Gallant, founder of BirthBridge, to explore the beautiful and complex journey of fatherhood. Nathaniel shares his personal experiences as a dad, his inspiration for creating BirthBridge, and his mission to build a community-driven platform where new parents can easily access the support they need. The conversation dives into the importance of being a present father, navigating the birth and postpartum experience, and how community resources can transform early parenthood. Together, Maria and Nathaniel discuss the value of honest reviews, accessible education, and compassionate care for families, reminding us that parenthood is not meant to be done alone. 🎧 GUEST — Nathaniel Gallant Nathaniel Gallant is a devoted father and the founder of BirthBridge, a platform created to connect new parents with essential resources, support, and guidance throughout their parenting journey. With a passion for family values and community connection, Nathaniel works to bridge the gap between families and trusted birth professionals, including midwives, doulas, and postpartum specialists, helping parents feel supported every step of the way.IG: @mybirthbridge📧 hello@mybirthbridge.com https://mybirthbridge.com/ 🎙 ABOUT THE HOST — Maria Moreno Certified pediatric sleep consultant, motherhood coach, educator & founder of Mindful Mother — helping moms reclaim rest, confidence, and calm without guilt. Work With Me + Resources: https://calendly.com/mindfulmother/freeconsultation https://www.mindfulmother.biz/ Sleep plans • eBooks • Coaching IG: @mindfulmother_sleep · @tumago · @ifiknewthenpodcast Facebook: Mindful Mother · TikTok: @mindfulmother_sleep YouTube: If I Knew Then Podcast Products & Partnerships: Blankets — Tumago ▶ https://www.etsy.com/shop/Tumago Pacifier — Soothe Beginnings ▶ https://soothebeginnings.com/products/soothe-beginnings-pacifier-starter-kit?sca_ref=8172596.eF2ZuRFJfE&sca_source=M.M.SOOTHE Savings — Sofi ▶ https://www.sofi.com/invite/money?gcp=58790401-992a-4904-b797-84a2c3fc1835&isAliasGcp=false Budgeting — Monarch ▶ https://www.monarchmoney.com/referral/3rgiubpwo8?r_source=share 🎧 Available on: Spotify · Apple Podcasts · Amazon Music · iHeartRadio · Goodpods If this episode gave you a new perspective, don’t forget to like, subscribe & share it with a parent who needs to hear this. ⚠ Disclaimer: This conversation is for support and education only, not medical advice. Always consult a licensed professional for personal guidance.

    34 min

  4. 10/30/2025

    Balancing Business and Babies: A Mom's Journey

    In this episode of If I Knew Then: Mom Edition, host Maria Moreno sits down with Becky Clark, a Nervous System & Somatic Regulation Coach, to explore the link between emotional overwhelm, stress, and the body’s natural need for safety and regulation. Together, they unpack the hidden effects of motherhood on the nervous system — from constant overstimulation and burnout to the guilt that comes with slowing down. Becky shares practical tools to help moms move from survival mode to embodied calm through somatic awareness, grounding techniques, and nervous-system-based self-care. This heart-to-heart conversation is a reminder that you don’t need to “fix” yourself to feel better — you just need to come home to your body. ✨ If you’ve ever felt anxious, disconnected, or like your emotions are “too much,” this episode will change the way you relate to your body and your motherhood journey. ABOUT THE GUEST — Becky Clark Nervous System & Somatics Regulation Coach Becky helps women reconnect with their bodies through nervous system regulation, somatic awareness, and emotional safety work. Her programs empower clients to move from stress and survival into calm, confidence, and embodied living. 📩 Connect with Becky: Instagram: @beckyclarksomatics Website: beckyclarkcoaching.com Email: admin@beckyclarkcoaching.com 🎙 ABOUT THE HOST — Maria Moreno Certified pediatric sleep consultant, motherhood coach, educator & founder of Mindful Mother — helping moms reclaim rest, confidence, and calm without guilt. Work With Me + Resources: https://calendly.com/mindfulmother/chatwithmaria https://www.mindfulmother.biz/ Sleep Plans • eBooks • Coaching IG: @mindfulmother_sleep · @tumago · @ifiknewthenpodcast Facebook: Mindful Mother • TikTok: @mindfulmother_sleep YouTube: If I Knew Then Podcast Products & Partnerships: Blankets — Tumago ▶ https://www.etsy.com/shop/Tumago Pacifier — Soothe Beginnings ▶ https://soothebeginnings.com/products/soothe-beginnings-pacifier-starter-kit?sca_ref=8172596.eF2ZuRFJfE&sca_source=M.M.SOOTHE Savings — Sofi ▶ https://www.sofi.com/invite/money?gcp=58790401-992a-4904-b797-84a2c3fc1835&isAliasGcp=false Budgeting — Monarch ▶ https://www.monarchmoney.com/referral/3rgiubpwo8?r_source=share 🎧 Available on: Spotify · Apple Podcasts · Amazon Music · iHeartRadio · Goodpods If this episode gave you a new perspective, don’t forget to like, subscribe & share it with a mom who needs to hear this. ⚠️ Disclaimer: This conversation is for support and education only, not medical advice. Always consult a licensed professional for personal guidance.

    40 min

  5. 10/21/2025

    When Motherhood Isn’t What You Imagined: Expectations, Overwhelm & Becoming Present

    In this episode of If I Knew Then: Mom Edition, host Maria Moreno sits down with Dr. Sandra Fernandes, a mother, wife, physician, and certified life coach, to unpack the realities of modern motherhood: the pressure to “do it right,” emotional overload, breastfeeding expectations, and the deep need for self-care and mental rest. Together, they share personal stories, professional insights, and practical takeaways on: Relearning emotional regulation in motherhood Why stress and overwhelm have become “normalized” How expectations shape our guilt and identity as moms Being present without burning yourself out Protecting maternal mental health while raising humans This conversation is a reminder that every child — and every mother — is different… and you are not failing just because it feels hard. ⏱ CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Motherhood Stories 04:12 The Journey to Motherhood 12:07 Relearning Coping Mechanisms 20:53 Embracing the Unexpected in Parenting 23:38 Navigating Breastfeeding Expectations 27:22 The Pressure of Motherhood 31:30 Mental Health and Maternal Well-being 35:23 Finding Balance in Parenting 38:00 The Importance of Presence 47:57 Redefining Normal in Motherhood 👩‍💻 ABOUT THE GUEST — Dr. Sandra Fernandes Dr. Sandra is a mother, wife, certified life coach, and family medicine physician. After witnessing how often women’s overwhelm and stress are dismissed as "normal," she launched a coaching practice helping women break free from chronic overwhelm and reclaim what she calls “time wealth,” the ability to spend their time and energy on what matters most. Email: sfernandes.coaching@gmail.com IG/Threads/TikTok: @SandraFernandesMD Website: http://www.sandrafernandes.com/ "Nervous System Reset" Freebie: https://www.sandrafernandes.com/35nervoussystemresets 🎙 ABOUT THE HOST — Maria Moreno Certified pediatric sleep consultant, motherhood coach, educator & founder of Mindful Mother — helping moms reclaim rest, confidence, and calm without guilt. Work With Me + Resources: https://calendly.com/mindfulmother/freeconsultation https://www.mindfulmother.biz/Sleep plans • eBooks • Coaching IG: @mindfulmother_sleep · @tumago · @ifiknewthenpodcast Facebook: Mindful Mother • TikTok: @mindfulmother_sleep YouTube: If I Knew Then Podcast Products & Partnerships: Blankets — Tumago ▶ https://www.etsy.com/shop/Tumago Pacifier — Soothe Beginnings: https://soothebeginnings.com/products/soothe-beginnings-pacifier-starter-kit?sca_ref=8172596.eF2ZuRFJfE&sca_source=M.M.SOOTHE Savings — Sofi: https://www.sofi.com/invite/money?gcp=58790401-992a-4904-b797-84a2c3fc1835&isAliasGcp=false Budgeting- Monarch: https://www.monarchmoney.com/referral/3rgiubpwo8?r_source=share 🎧 Available on: Spotify · Apple Podcasts · Amazon Music · iHeartRadio · Goodpods If this episode gave you a new perspective, don’t forget to like, subscribe & share it with a mom who needs to hear this. ⚠ Disclaimer: This conversation is for support and education only, not medical advice. Always consult a licensed professional for personal guidance.

    46 min

  6. 10/16/2025

    Small Steps, Big Changes: A Mom’s Story of Relocation & Growth

    👩‍💻 About the Guest:Julia Jerg is a mother, digital nomad, and advocate for mindful living. She has embraced a lifestyle of relocation and minimalism, moving from Germany to Thailand and then Bali, while learning the art of listening to her intuition, involving her children in decisions, and finding freedom in simplicity. Her journey is a testament to personal growth, embracing change, and discovering lessons in everyday motherhood. https://www.juliajerg.com/magnetise-masses For your audience: Code MMfriend, it will be free! https://www.instagram.com/sovereignmamas/ https://www.threads.com/@sovereignmamas https://www.youtube.com/@SovereignMamas https://www.facebook.com/groups/sovereignmamas 👩‍💻 About the Host:Hosted by Maria Moreno, certified pediatric sleep consultant, coach, educator, and founder of Mindful Mother. I help moms reclaim rest, confidence, and calm, without guilt. From sleep plans and eBooks to coaching and community, my mission is to support the entire journey of motherhood, from newborns to the preschool years and beyond. 🌐 Work with me + Resources: Sleep training & parenting support 📲 Stay Connected:Instagram: ⁠@mindfulmother_sleep Instagram: ⁠@tumago Instagram: ⁠@ifiknewthenpodcast Facebook: Mindful Mother TikTok: @mindfulmother_sleep YouTube: If I Knew Then Podcast 🛒 Products & Partnerships:Blankets: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.etsy.com/shop/Tumago Pacifier: ⁠⁠SoothebeginningsSavings & Investing: ⁠⁠SofiBudgeting: ⁠⁠Monarch 🎧 Listen on All Podcast Platforms:Spotify Apple Podcasts Amazon Music iHeartRadio Goodpods 💡 Episode Highlights: Julia’s journey from Germany to becoming a digital nomad in Bali The importance of listening to your intuition in life-changing decisions Mindful parenting and involving children in transitions Letting go of material possessions and embracing minimalism Lessons from children that teach presence and gratitude Taking small steps toward big personal and professional growth Thank you for tuning in! If this episode gave you a fresh perspective, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share it with a parent who needs to hear this. ⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast shares personal experiences and insights for educational and supportive purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, therapy, or counseling. Always consult with your pediatrician or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your child’s needs.

    39 min

  7. 10/09/2025

    Healing, Self-Care & Endometriosis: Real Motherhood Stories

    Being a mom can come with unexpected challenges, especially when navigating health issues that impact fertility and well-being. In Episode 12 of If I Knew Then: Mom Edition, Lizzie joins me to share her personal journey through infertility, endometriosis, and the transformative experience of motherhood. We dive into the importance of understanding women’s health, the impact of diet and lifestyle on fertility, and why listening to your body is essential for healing and growth. Lizzie also discusses rediscovering identity as a mother and the power of self-care in reclaiming confidence and balance. ✨ What you’ll learn in this episode: How endometriosis can affect fertility and why it’s often misunderstood The role of diet and lifestyle changes in supporting reproductive health Why tuning into your body is crucial for healing and holistic health Practical insights for rediscovering your identity through motherhood The importance of self-care without guilt, even amidst busy motherhood How to embrace growth, change, and evolving priorities as a parent Whether you’re facing infertility, navigating health challenges, or simply seeking guidance on balancing motherhood and self-care, this episode provides real stories, actionable insights, and encouragement to embrace your journey fully. –––👩‍💻 About the Guest:Lizzie is a passionate advocate for women’s health and holistic wellness, sharing her story to help other mothers navigate fertility, self-care, and identity transformation. https://www.facebook.com/lizzie.ostlerhttps://www.facebook.com/willowaitwellnesshttps://www.instagram.com/willowaitwellness👩‍💻 About the Host: Hosted by Maria Moreno, certified pediatric sleep consultant, coach, educator, and founder of Mindful Mother. I help moms reclaim rest, confidence, and calm, without guilt. From sleep plans and eBooks to coaching and community, my mission is to support the entire journey of motherhood, from newborns to the preschool years and beyond. 🌐 Work with me + Resources:➤ ⁠⁠Sleep training & parenting support⁠⁠ 📲 Stay Connected:Instagram: ⁠@mindfulmother_sleepInstagram: ⁠@tumagoInstagram: ⁠@ifiknewthenpodcastFacebook: Mindful MotherTikTok: @mindfulmother_sleepYouTube: If I Knew Then Podcast 🛒 Products & Partnerships: Blankets: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.etsy.com/shop/Tumago⁠⁠ Pacifier: ⁠⁠Soothebeginnings⁠⁠ Savings & Investing: ⁠⁠Sofi⁠⁠ Budgeting: ⁠⁠Monarch⁠⁠ 🎧 Listen on All Podcast Platforms: Spotify Apple Podcasts Amazon Music iHeartRadio Goodpods Thank you for tuning in! If this episode gave you a fresh perspective, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share it with a parent who needs to hear this. ⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast shares personal experiences and insights for educational and supportive purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, therapy, or counseling. Always consult with your pediatrician or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your child’s needs.

    40 min

  8. 10/01/2025

    The Realities of Motherhood: Candid Stories, Lessons, and Raising Two Kids

    Being a mom comes with endless challenges and surprises, but what if the lessons we learn along the way could completely change the way we parent? In Episode 11 of If I Knew Then: Mom Edition, Stephanie Henderson joins me to share the unfiltered realities of motherhood—from pregnancy struggles and labor stories to the joys and challenges of raising two daughters. Stephanie and I dive deep into candid stories about parenting, technology’s impact on children, and the small but meaningful moments that shape both kids and parents. We reflect on lessons we wish we had known earlier and explore how empathy, understanding, and communication can strengthen the bond with your children. ✨ What you’ll learn in this episode: The joys and challenges unique to raising two children Pregnancy experiences and labor stories from real moms How technology can influence kids’ behavior and development Why acknowledging and apologizing to children matters How different parenting styles impact children’s learning and growth The importance of father-daughter bonds Real, unfiltered stories that highlight the love, humor, and unpredictability of motherhood Whether you’re a new parent navigating the early years or a seasoned mom reflecting on your journey, this episode offers relatable insights, laughter, and the reassurance that you’re not alone in the beautiful chaos of raising kids. –––👩‍💻 About the Guest:Stephanie Henderson shares her candid experiences as a mother of two and offers honest reflections on the joys and challenges of parenthood. 👩‍💻 About the Host:Hosted by Maria Moreno, certified pediatric sleep consultant, coach, educator, and founder of Mindful Mother. I help moms reclaim rest, confidence, and calm, without guilt. From sleep plans and eBooks to coaching and community, my mission is to support the entire journey of motherhood, from newborns to preschoolers and beyond. 🌐 Work with me + Resources:➤ Sleep training & parenting support 📲 Stay Connected:Instagram: ⁠@mindfulmother_sleepInstagram: ⁠@tumagoInstagram: ⁠@ifiknewthenpodcastFacebook: Mindful MotherTikTok: @mindfulmother_sleepYouTube: If I Knew Then Podcast 🛒 Products & Partnerships:Blankets: ⁠https://www.etsy.com/shop/TumagoSavings & Investing: ⁠SofiBudgeting: ⁠Monarch 🎧 Listen on All Podcast Platforms:Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | iHeartRadio | Goodpods Thank you for tuning in! If this episode gave you a fresh perspective, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share it with a parent who needs to hear this. ⚠️ Disclaimer:This podcast shares personal experiences and insights for educational and supportive purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, therapy, or counseling. Always consult with your pediatrician or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your child’s needs.

    41 min
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out of 5
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About

If I Knew Then: Mom Edition is the podcast where moms get real. Raw, emotional, and sometimes hilariously honest, this is the space for the lessons we learned the hard way, the things we wish someone had told us, and the truths we’re still figuring out. From sleep-deprived nights to identity shifts, healing, heartbreak, and toddler negotiations that feel like hostage situations, this is unfiltered motherhood.

Information

  • Creator
    Maria Moreno | Mindful Mother
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    19
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Maria Moreno | Mindful Mother
  • Show Website
    If I Knew Then: Mom Edition