Messy Minded Mama

Kate and Jenn
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Parenting

Hosted by two moms and mental health therapists, Kate and Jenn, this podcast is rooted in honest conversations about motherhood, mental health, and the messy middle so many of us live in.  Connect with us on Instagram: @messy.minded.mama Email us: hello@messymindedmama.com

  1. 2d ago

    Episode 23 - I See You: The Mother Behind the NICU Journey

    Send us Fan Mail September is NICU Awareness Month, and we knew we wanted to use this month to shine a light on something that can sometimes get lost in the NICU story: the mother behind the baby. In this episode of Messy Minded Mama, we’re joined by Stephanie, founder of Mama, I See You, an organization created to support and care for moms navigating the NICU experience. Stephanie shares her own deeply personal NICU journey, what she learned about what NICU moms really need, and how her experience inspired her to create Mama, I See You. We talk about the fear, exhaustion, uncertainty, and isolation that can come with a NICU stay—and why supporting the baby also means remembering to support the mama. Because sometimes she doesn't need us to fix it. She just needs someone to say: Mama, I see you. ❤️ Support Mama, I See You After hearing Stephanie's story and learning more about the incredible work Mama, I See You is doing, Messy Minded Mama made a donation to support NICU moms—and we would love for you to join us. If this episode resonates with you, consider making a donation, sharing Mama, I See You with someone who may benefit from their support, or finding another way to get involved. Mama, I See You is currently supporting NICU mamas here in Colorado, but that doesn’t mean you have to be in Colorado to make an impact. You can support their work, share their mission, or look for ways to show up for NICU families in your own community. Whether it’s donating, dropping off a meal, checking in on a mama, or simply reminding her that she hasn’t been forgotten, there are so many ways to say, I see you.  Every contribution helps remind a NICU mama that she hasn't been forgotten. Donate or learn more about Mama, I See You: 🌐 Website: https://www.mamaiseeyou.com/ 📱 Instagram: mamaiseeyou.co  And if you can't donate right now, that's okay. Share this episode. Share their mission. Check in on a NICU mom you know. Sometimes showing up starts with simply letting someone know: I see you. 🎧 Keep Listening If you're a mama navigating the beautiful, messy, exhausting, complicated parts of motherhood, you're in the right place. Follow Messy Minded Mama wherever you listen to podcasts and share this episode with a mama who needs to hear it. Real moms. Real stories. The messy middle of motherhood.

  2. Sep 4

    Episode 22 - Resilient, But at What Cost?

    Send us Fan Mail Moms are resilient. We hear it all the time. But what if we've gotten so good at being resilient that we've forgotten to ask what that resilience is costing us? In this episode, we have an honest conversation about what resilience actually looks like in motherhood—and whether we've confused resilience with simply pushing through. We talk about the seasons when motherhood asks more of us than we expected, the pressure to “keep going,” and the ways we can learn to notice what our minds and bodies are telling us before we reach complete depletion. We share our personal stories about attunement and why paying attention to our physical, emotional, and behavioral signals can be such an important part of caring for ourselves. Because resilience doesn't always mean doing more. Sometimes resilience looks like asking for help. Sometimes it looks like lowering the bar. Sometimes it looks like resting. Sometimes it looks like saying no. And sometimes it looks like recognizing that something needs to change. A question to take with you: What have you been noticing lately that you've been telling yourself to ignore? Now is your time to pause. You don't have to wait until you're completely falling apart to pay attention. __________________________________________________________________________________________________ 💃 GIVEAWAY: 2 Tickets to Moms Feelin' Themselves! We are SO excited to be partnering with Moms Feelin' Themselves for a Back-to-School Banger edition of The Mom Dance Party giveaway! Because sometimes resilience looks like putting down the laundry basket, leaving the kids at home, and dancing your face off with your mom friends. 😂 Moms Feelin' Themselves: Back-to-School Banger 📅 Friday, September 18, 2026 📍 The Gothic Theatre | Englewood, CO 🕖 7 PM 🔞 21+ We're giving one lucky mama TWO tickets to come dance, laugh, let loose, and feel like herself again. To enter: ✨ Follow @messy.minded.mama on Instagram ✨ Follow @momsfeelinthemselves on Instagram That's it! Go find our giveaway post on Instagram for the full details and to enter. Tag your dance partner while you're there—we have a feeling you're going to need one. 💃 We'll see you on the dance floor! Giveaway is for two tickets to the September 18, 2026 Denver event. See giveaway post for complete rules and eligibility.

  3. Aug 6

    Episode 21 - August Reset: Holding On, Letting Go & Starting Fresh

    Send us Fan Mail Summer somehow flies by... and August has a way of bringing all the feelings. In this episode of Messy Minded Mama, we're reflecting on the highs and lows of summer, and talking honestly about the emotional transition into a new school year. From excitement and anticipation to grief over another season ending, we're exploring why motherhood is often full of seemingly opposite emotions—and why that's completely normal. We also share what we're hoping for our kids, what we're hoping for ourselves, and the simple routines, mindset shifts, and intentions we're bringing into this next season. Whether you're packing backpacks, sending a little one to preschool for the first time, or simply craving a fresh start, this conversation is your reminder that you don't have to have it all figured out. Remember, you don't have to reinvent yourself this August. Sometimes the healthiest reset isn't about doing more—it's about carrying forward what matters most and letting go of what no longer serves you. If this episode encouraged you, we'd love for you to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another mama who could use a little encouragement heading into this season. And...if you have a morning, after-school, or bedtime hack that actually works? Don't gatekeep. 😂 Drop it in the comments because we're convinced every family has one thing we haven't thought of yet.  🍂 Join us for our upcoming Values Workshop! As a new season begins, it's the perfect time to reconnect with what matters most. Our interactive Values Workshop will help you identify your core values, make more intentional decisions, and create a life that feels more aligned with who you are. 👉 Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1992527840408?aff=oddtdtcreator

  4. Jul 23

    Episode 20 - Finding Your Mom Village

    Send us Fan Mail Real Moms. Real Stories.  What if the biggest difference in your motherhood journey wasn't your baby... but your village?  In this episode of Messy Minded Mama, Jenn sits down with Alyssa, a mom of two, to talk about the loneliness so many mothers experience and how intentionally building a community transformed her experience from her first child to her second.  Together, they explore the power of connection, why asking for help isn't a sign of weakness, and how finding your people can positively impact your mental health, confidence, and joy in motherhood.  Whether you're a new mom searching for connection or simply feeling isolated in this season, this conversation is a reminder that you were never meant to do motherhood alone.  In this episode, you'll hear Alyssa say, "there is something so special about women gathering and so special about mothers gathering" and learn about Alyssa's journey from isolation to connection.   You'll leave ready to take one small step this week toward building or strengthening your village.   🤍 Follow us on Instagram: @messy.minded.mama 🌿 Learn more about upcoming Messy Minded Mama events and community gatherings at www.messymindedmama.com   🎙️ Enjoying the podcast? Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a mom who could use the reminder that she doesn't have to do motherhood alone.

  5. Jul 9

    Episode 19 - Can We Talk About The Rage... Again?!

    Send us Fan Mail  After the response to our first episode on mom rage, we knew we needed to continue the conversation. In this episode, we're going deeper—not just into the moments of yelling or losing our patience, but into the experiences so many moms carry silently. The slammed doors. The tears in the bathroom. The urge to escape. The overwhelming guilt that often follows. As moms, we often assume our rage means we're failing. But what if it's actually our nervous system telling us we've been carrying too much for too long? Jenn and Kate share their own experiences with reaching a breaking point, and together we explore what rage is really communicating, when it's time to pay attention, and why understanding our nervous system can replace shame with self-compassion. If you've ever wondered, "Why am I reacting like this?" or "Am I the only mom who feels this way?"—this episode is for you. Quick Nervous System Reset Ideas When you notice yourself approaching your limit, remember that regulation doesn't have to take an hour. Even one or two minutes can help signal safety to your nervous system. The 5-4-3-2-1 Grounding Exercise5 things you can see4 things you can touch3 things you can hear2 things you can smell1 thing you can tasteTake 10 slow, intentional breaths, making your exhale longer than your inhale.Step outside for five minutes and let your eyes look into the distance. This helps shift your brain out of constant "close-up" focus.Splash cold water on your face or hold a cold drink to activate your body's calming response.Put both feet firmly on the floor and notice the support beneath you.Stretch your shoulders, unclench your jaw, and relax your hands. Our bodies often hold stress before we realize it.Turn on one song you love and move your body—dance, walk, sway, or simply shake out the tension.Text or call someone who feels safe and simply say, "I'm having a hard moment."If possible, step away for five minutes. A short pause isn't giving up—it's helping you return as the parent you want to be.Remember Feeling overwhelmed doesn't make you a bad mom. Rage isn't a reflection of how much you love your children. More often, it's a signal that your mind and body have been carrying more than they were meant to carry alone. You don't have to wait until you're completely burned out to ask for help. Support isn't a last resort—it's part of caring for yourself and your family. Connect with Us If this episode resonated with you, we'd love to hear from you. Share it with another mom who needs the reminder that she's not alone, and don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow along for more real conversations about the messy, beautiful reality of motherhood.

  6. Jun 25

    Episode 18 - Marriage After Kids: Real Talk with Our Husbands (Part 2)

    Send us Fan Mail Marriage After Kids (Part 2): Honest Conversations with Kate & TaylorMarriage changes after kids. Not because the love disappears, but because life gets louder. In Part 2 of our Marriage After Kids series, Kate sits down with her husband, Taylor, for an honest conversation about what nearly 14 years together and almost 10 years of marriage-have taught them about parenting, partnership, and choosing each other through every season. From learning how to communicate through busy schedules, to navigating a difficult year in their marriage, to embracing different parenting styles, this episode is a reminder that healthy relationships aren't built by never struggling, they're built by continuing to show up. Together, Kate and Taylor talk about: What changed most in their relationship after becoming parentsWhy intentional communication and regular check-ins matterThe reality of "roommate mode" and reconnecting after hard seasonsDifferent parenting styles and how those differences can actually strengthen a familyMental load, gatekeeping, and why asking for help mattersFinding your identity while raising young childrenWhat they hope their daughters learn from watching their marriageThe transition from one child to two (and why that felt monumental!)Why they still choose each other after all these yearsWhether you're newly married, deep in the toddler years, or simply trying to reconnect with your partner, we hope this conversation reminds you that you're not alone. Marriage after kids is beautiful. It's messy. It's intentional. And it's always worth fighting for. ✨ Connect with us: Instagram: @messy.minded.mama If this episode resonated with you, we'd love for you to leave a review, share it with another parent, or send us a message, we'd love to hear your story.

  7. Jun 11

    Episode 17 - Marriage After Kids: Real Talk with Our Husbands (Part 1)

    Send us Fan Mail Marriage after kids changes everything—and yet, somehow, the heart of a strong marriage remains the same. In this special episode, Jenn is joined by her husband, Tyler, for an honest conversation about what marriage looks like after children enter the picture. From navigating the mental load and staying connected through busy seasons to sharing parenting responsibilities and finding humor in the chaos, they're pulling back the curtain on the realities of family life. Together, they discuss: • How their relationship changed after becoming parents • The challenges of balancing marriage, parenting, and everyday responsibilities • Mental load and the invisible work that often comes with raising a family • What husbands wish moms knew • Funny stories from life with kids (including a memorable moment involving "the main one") • The habits and perspectives that help them stay connected through different seasons of family life Whether you're in the newborn trenches, chasing toddlers, navigating school-aged years, or simply trying to reconnect with your spouse amid the busyness of family life, this conversation offers encouragement, honesty, and a reminder that you're not alone. One insight from Tyler that stood out: "Parents have already done the hard part. They've found someone they connect with—someone they can build a life and raise a family with." This is Part 1 of our "Real Talk with Our Husbands" series. Stay tuned for Part 2, featuring Kate and her husband. Connect with us: Instagram: @messy.minded.mama Website: messymindedmama.com If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love for you to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another parent who could use some encouragement.

  8. Jun 5

    Episode 16 - Summer Reset: Prepare Now, Thank Yourself Later

    Send us Fan Mail We're back! 🎙️ After an accidental summer break before summer even started, we're catching up on all the end-of-school chaos, spirit weeks, graduations, and the inevitable round of sickness that seemed determined to kick off our summer plans. If you're entering summer feeling more exhausted than refreshed, you're not alone. In this episode, we share what moms in our community are craving more of this summer—rest, connection, slow mornings, adventure, and intentional time with their kids—and what's feeling hardest right now, from balancing work and family to feeling responsible for everyone's happiness. Together, we're talking about how to create a Summer Reset that gives you the permission slip you need and create rhythms that actually work for your family. Because summer doesn't need to be perfect to be meaningful. In This Episode: ☀️ Why summer often feels harder than we expect ☀️ What moms really want more (and less) of this season ☀️ How to decide how you want summer to feel before filling your calendar ☀️ The difference between creating rhythm and creating rigidity ☀️ Our personal Summer Permission Slips ☀️ A simple "Prepare Now, Thank Yourself Later" challenge Favorite Takeaways: ✨ Moms aren't asking for more activities. They're asking for more peace, presence, and connection. ✨ You are not responsible for creating a magical summer every single day. ✨ Kids need a present mom more than they need a perfect summer. ✨ Protecting your energy isn't selfish—it's what helps everyone enjoy summer more. Your Summer Reset Challenge: Choose ONE thing this week that future-you will appreciate. Maybe it's planning easy meals, scheduling downtime, setting family expectations, or letting go of something that no longer serves your family. A little preparation today can create a lot more peace later. Prepare now. Thank yourself later. Connect with us on Instagram @messymindedmama and tell us: 👉 What's one thing you want MORE of this summer?

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5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Hosted by two moms and mental health therapists, Kate and Jenn, this podcast is rooted in honest conversations about motherhood, mental health, and the messy middle so many of us live in.  Connect with us on Instagram: @messy.minded.mama Email us: hello@messymindedmama.com

Information

  • Creator
    Kate and Jenn
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    24
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Messy Minded Mama
  • Show Website
    Messy Minded Mama