In this episode, Lina elaborates on how hard it's been coming back from maternity leave and juggling her 4-month old daughter. She discusses the challenges of exclusively breastfeeding, childcare costs, quitting her job (and how it's not gonna happen), and a little bit about the behind-the-scenes of podcasting. The podcast is on a break but will be back soon! In the meantime, stay in touch with Lina on Instagram.Support the Show.Connect with Lina on @linaforrestal on InstagramFollow the @newmamaspodcast on InstagramRead Lina's Blog: www.linaforrestal.comSupport the Show: Buy Me a Coffee (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/newmamaspodcast)

Niki became a mother and motherless in the same breath. Her journey to motherhood was filled with uncertainty and trauma when we went through recurrent pregnancy loss and learning that her mom was diagnosed with Stage IV cancer at the same time. She is a wife and mom of two living in Minnesota. She is a business owner by day, a podcaster by night, and a dedicated mom 24/7.  When she finally got her triple rainbow baby pregnancy, my mom’s cancer progressed and she lost her when she was just 5 weeks postpartum. Years of grief and loss shaped her motherhood journey and how she choose to put turn that pain to purpose. It’s one of the many reasons she started her podcast: Moms of the Night Connect with Niki: @momsofthenightpodcast Moms of the Night, is a space to help combat loneliness in motherhood. The podcast brings together moms to share stories, vulnerable conversations, and uplifting messages. Unlike many parenting podcasts, there's no experts, or advice to add to the overwhelm - just moments for all of us to sit in solidarity as we live out our motherhood journeys.Support the Show.Connect with Lina on @linaforrestal on InstagramFollow the @newmamaspodcast on InstagramRead Lina's Blog: www.linaforrestal.comSupport the Show: Buy Me a Coffee (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/newmamaspodcast)

Lina and Linnea gave birth around the same time and both have toddlers and newborns. They have a fun and dynamic friend catch-up about having two young kids. In this episode they talk about:Division of labor between partnersMom guiltGoing back to workChildcareHypnobirthing  BreastfeedingLinnea's first pod appearance: Hypnobirthing and How To Hire a Doula with Newborn Mom LinneaConnect with Linnea: @linneakayakSupport the Show.Connect with Lina on @linaforrestal on InstagramFollow the @newmamaspodcast on InstagramRead Lina's Blog: www.linaforrestal.comSupport the Show: Buy Me a Coffee (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/newmamaspodcast)

Almost 60% of marriages end in divorce. Mikki checked every box to guarantee a happy life- but what felt like an instant the life she thought she had was gone. Divorce was the healthiest option for their relationship. Parenting can be alienating with little ones and when you get divorced it's another level of alienation. Mikki is a mentor and coach for women who are currently going through this journey. In this episode, Lina and Mikki talk about:Talking to young children about divorceLetting go of the shame of divorceHow to start a healthy co-parenting processNavigating holidays and birthdaysManaging conflict Listen to Mikki on other shows:The Moms Moving On Divorce & Co-Parenting PodcastThe Stepmom Diaries PodcastThe Parenting Coach PodcastMikki Gardner is a Conscious Parenting Coach, the host of Co-Parenting With Confidence Podcast, and a mom to her son! After learning how to navigate life post divorce & using it as a catalyst to her own transformation, Mikki now helps moms move past the divorce drama to become calm, confident co-parents. She is on a mission to help women navigate the emotional and practical difficulties of divorce and co-parenting while creating an intentional, joy + ease-filled life after divorce.Connect with Mikki:WebsiteInstagramFacebookMikki’s Podcast “Co-Parenting With Confidence”Support the Show.Connect with Lina on @linaforrestal on InstagramFollow the @newmamaspodcast on InstagramRead Lina's Blog: www.linaforrestal.comSupport the Show: Buy Me a Coffee (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/newmamaspodcast)

Lina hired her postpartum doula, Katie, to aid her in her first few months postpartum with her second baby, Evelyn. In this episode, Lina and Katie have an informal chat on what it was like working together. This is a great episode for anyone who's considering hiring a postpartum doula!Connect with Katie on Instagram: @lifeinbloomwellnessTo learn more about my postpartum doula Katie, check out her website: https://www.lifeinbloomwellness.co/ Support the Show.Connect with Lina on @linaforrestal on InstagramFollow the @newmamaspodcast on InstagramRead Lina's Blog: www.linaforrestal.comSupport the Show: Buy Me a Coffee (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/newmamaspodcast)

In this episode, Lina invites bestselling author and podcaster Jo Piazza on to discuss trad wives and why they are problematic for our nation's youth. In this episode, they talk about:The definition of a trad wife: how is she different than a stay-at-home-momWhy glamorizing the lifestyle of a trad wife through social media is creating a false narrativeFeminism, financial independence, and what we really want out of a marriageWorking motherhood and decision fatigueThe problem with Disney princesses (why does everything end in a wedding!?)Booktok: specifically, A Court of Thorns and Roses The book of the year: The Sicilian Inheritance, written by Jo herself!You can pre-order The Sicilian Inheritance by Jo Piazza right now: https://amzn.to/43jvUg3 It comes out April 2, 2024Meet Jo in person and come to the book launch in Philly: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/jo-piazza-the-sicilian-inheritance-tickets-822933234457?aff=oddtdtcreator Connect with Jo Piazza: @jopiazzaauthorSupport the Show.Connect with Lina on @linaforrestal on InstagramFollow the @newmamaspodcast on InstagramRead Lina's Blog: www.linaforrestal.comSupport the Show: Buy Me a Coffee (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/newmamaspodcast)

In this episode, Lina gives a 3 month postpartum update. Just Chatting episodes are meant to emulate a your mom bestie leaving you a long voice note. In this episode Lina talks about:How her maternity leave is ending and her thoughts on going back to workTransparency on the costs of childcare and what she can realistically affordPublic versus private schoolHow she's managing as a mom of two, specifically around the nights when she has to solo parent Baby-wearing and brands she lovesSupport the Show.Connect with Lina on @linaforrestal on InstagramFollow the @newmamaspodcast on InstagramRead Lina's Blog: www.linaforrestal.comSupport the Show: Buy Me a Coffee (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/newmamaspodcast)

Katherine is a creative homemaker and mom of four. While she doesn't identify as a "trad wife", she believes that by other people's standards she would be considered one. Lina and Katherine have a thoughtful discussion how the criticism of trad wives can be demeaning towards SAHMs and domestic labor. They also have a candid discussion about feminism, racism, and the complexity of raising children in today's society. Connect with Katie on Instagram: @katherinelouisedegrootSubscribe to her Substack: @katherinelouisedegrootVisit her website: https://katherinedegroot.com/Support the Show.Connect with Lina on @linaforrestal on InstagramFollow the @newmamaspodcast on InstagramRead Lina's Blog: www.linaforrestal.comSupport the Show: Buy Me a Coffee (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/newmamaspodcast)

Have to breastfeed on American Airlines? Think again. When first-time mom Ashley Copperstone was flying out of Grand Rapics, MI she didn't think twice when she was breastfeeding her daughter at the gate. It's something a lot of us moms do, especially trying to soothe a cranky baby. A crew member from American Airlines felt the need to publicly approach and shame Ashley and tell her to cover up for breastfeeding her 15-month old daughter. When Ashley complained to American Airlines for the interaction, their response was less than acceptable. Shame on you, American Airlines!  Connect with Ashley @joyfulhopevirtualservices As of August 2021, all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands have laws that allow breastfeeding in public or private settings. Additionally, 31 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands exempt breastfeeding from public indecency laws. Learn more about Breastfeeding State Laws here. Support the Show.Connect with Lina on @linaforrestal on InstagramFollow the @newmamaspodcast on InstagramRead Lina's Blog: www.linaforrestal.comSupport the Show: Buy Me a Coffee (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/newmamaspodcast)

"Life is not happening to you but FOR you." A lot of us lose ourselves in motherhood. In Lina's conversation with former Superior Court Judge Shelyna Brown, they discuss how you can come back to yourself and how to find that purpose and passion again. Connect with Shelyna: @svbconsultingpresideCheck out Shelyna's book, Preside: Biblical Principles for Personal Growth and Taking Command of Your Life—A Judge’s VerdictIn Preside, you will learn how to:Discover your authority as a steward over your lifeMaster the stewardship mindsetBanish unproductive thought patterns and limiting beliefsUnderstand your jurisdiction so you know when to exercise your authority and when to wait on the LordExperience the abundance God has ordained for your lifeWatch Shelyna's TEDx Talk here.Shelyna Brown: Visionary Leader and Advocate for Justice Spanning two decades, Shelyna Brown's career is a testament to her unwavering commitment to justice and community empowerment. Her journey from a passionate public defender to a respected Superior Court Judge in Santa Clara County is a narrative of determination and impact.Armed with a Juris Doctorate from Santa Clara University and a degree from the University of California, Davis, Shelyna has been pivotal in reshaping the legal narrative. Her influence extends beyond the courtroom, notably as a co-founder of the Equality and Social Justice Committee and an advisor at San Jose State University. Here, she mentors the next generation of leaders, championing progressive change.Renowned as a charismatic TEDx speaker, Shelyna's eloquence on leadership and justice has resonated on both national and international platforms. With the upcoming release of 'Preside,' Shelyna is set to ignite a new spark of inspiration. This book is a call to action, encouraging readers to take the helm of their lives with purpose and passion. Shelyna’s story, emblematic of resilience and visionary leadership, makes her a true role model in every sense.As we introduce 'Preside' to the world, we are not just sharing a book; we are sharing Shelyna Brown's legacy – one that inspires each of us to embrace empowerment, pursue justice, and lead with conviction.Support the Show.Connect with Lina on @linaforrestal on InstagramFollow the @newmamaspodcast on InstagramRead Lina's Blog: www.linaforrestal.comSupport the Show: Buy Me a Coffee (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/newmamaspodcast)

Happy Valentine's Day! In this special episode, Lina shares what she LOVES most about motherhood and marriage and also shares what YOU said you love too! If you want to contribute to the listener feedback episodes, give Lina a follow on Instagram (@linaforrestal) and keep an eye on her Stories where she polls her audience. Support the Show.Connect with Lina on @linaforrestal on InstagramFollow the @newmamaspodcast on InstagramRead Lina's Blog: www.linaforrestal.comSupport the Show: Buy Me a Coffee (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/newmamaspodcast)

Host Lina Forrestal and her friend and fellow podcaster Engrid Latina sit down for a thought-provoking chit chat about jealousy and comparison in motherhood.  Engrid Latina is a personal trainer and strength coach (CSCS) based out of Ohio. She has trained clients both in-person and online for nearly a decade. Engrid's personal history with an eating disorder has helped develop a training model that invites a deep appreciation and respect of the body.Engrid curated a 6-Week Postpartum Training Program designed to help postpartum moms regain strength, energy, and confidence.Connect with Engrid on Instagram: @livengproofSupport the Show.Connect with Lina on @linaforrestal on InstagramFollow the @newmamaspodcast on InstagramRead Lina's Blog: www.linaforrestal.comSupport the Show: Buy Me a Coffee (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/newmamaspodcast)

Support the Show.Connect with Lina on @linaforrestal on InstagramFollow the @newmamaspodcast on InstagramRead Lina's Blog: www.linaforrestal.comSupport the Show: Buy Me a Coffee (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/newmamaspodcast)

In this episode, Lina mentions a few more things about her postpartum experience so far that she forgot to mention in the last recap episode. She also breaks down the Kyte Baby controversy with her friend Alyssa Bolanos. Check out Nourish to Heal organic and healthy meal delivery in Central, New Jersey: https://nourishtoheal.com/Connect with Katie of Life in Bloom Wellness: https://www.instagram.com/lifeinbloomwellness/Check out Katie's "Postpartum Mindset Workshop": https://www.lifeinbloomwellness.co/workshopsConnect with Alyssa Bolanos: https://www.instagram.com/casabolanos/ Support the Show.Connect with Lina on @linaforrestal on InstagramFollow the @newmamaspodcast on InstagramRead Lina's Blog: www.linaforrestal.comSupport the Show: Buy Me a Coffee (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/newmamaspodcast)

In this episode, Lina talks about how her postpartum experience is going so far: how her mental health has been and how she's been juggling newborn life with a toddler in tow. Support the Show.Connect with Lina on @linaforrestal on InstagramFollow the @newmamaspodcast on InstagramRead Lina's Blog: www.linaforrestal.comSupport the Show: Buy Me a Coffee (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/newmamaspodcast)

23-year-old Brittani got pregnant unexpectedly with her daughter. While she is the best thing Brittani could ever ask for, new motherhood was a difficult adjustment. She worked in an OBGYN when she got pregnant and loved her job, but due to lack of childcare had to quit and become a stay-at-home-mom. In this episode, Brittani also shares her positive birth experience!Connect with Brittani: https://www.instagram.com/brittyy__c/ Support the Show.Connect with Lina on @linaforrestal on InstagramFollow the @newmamaspodcast on InstagramRead Lina's Blog: www.linaforrestal.comSupport the Show: Buy Me a Coffee (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/newmamaspodcast)

In this episode, Lina and twin mom Engrid Latina talk about getting moving again after having a baby (or two)! As a mom of twin toddlers, she understands the challenges and changes that come with postpartum recovery and curated a 6-Week Postpartum Training Program designed to help postpartum moms regain strength, energy, and confidence.Join her January group starting January 8th! Use code NEWMAMA at checkout for an additional 15% off by 1/7/24Engrid Latina is a personal trainer and strength coach (CSCS) based out of Ohio. She has trained clients both in-person and online for nearly a decade. Engrid's personal history with an eating disorder has helped develop a training model that invites a deep appreciation and respect of the body.Connect with Engrid on Instagram: @livengproofSupport the Show.Connect with Lina on @linaforrestal on InstagramFollow the @newmamaspodcast on InstagramRead Lina's Blog: www.linaforrestal.comSupport the Show: Buy Me a Coffee (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/newmamaspodcast)

In this SPECIAL episode, Lina Forrestal tells her positive birth story with her doula, Jenna Toulantis. Jenna helps recount the story from her perspective, adding in professional explanations for why certain things did and didn't happen. Lina's mom also pops in on the episode, discussing how things have changed in 34 years when it comes to pregnancy complications.  Lina's favorite part of the episode is an audio recording of birth and hearing Evelyn's first cry.Lina mentions how she listened to the book "HypnoBirthing, the breakthrough natural approach to safer, easier, more comfortable birthing" She highly recommends this book to anyone who's pregnant. Check out the birth photos on Lina's blog: https://www.linaforrestal.com/blog/evelyns-birth-storyJenna Toulantis is a certified doula, photographer, and community builder in Hunterdon County, New Jersey.  Connect with Jenna on Instagram: @jmtnjphotographySupport the Show.Connect with Lina on @linaforrestal on InstagramFollow the @newmamaspodcast on InstagramRead Lina's Blog: www.linaforrestal.comSupport the Show: Buy Me a Coffee (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/newmamaspodcast)

After Julissa delivered her first baby in the hospital, she decided she wanted a more natural experience and sought to have a home birth. After working with a team of professionals, she designed a home birth and safely welcomed her second child into the world. Connect with Julissa on Instagram: @julissa.edwards_counselingJulissa Edwards is a licensed psychotherapist, retired adjunct psychology professor, positivity expert, and mindset coach. With a passion for positive psychology and holistic healing, Julissa takes a holistic approach to counseling and coaching, incorporating various techniques to help individuals achieve their goals. She firmly believes that the power of the mind is one of the best skills you can hone in on to achieve any accomplishment in life and overcome hardships. Drawing upon her years of experience as a therapist and teacher, Julissa guides clients to strengthen their resiliency and develop a positive mindset that can transform their perception of the world. Her goal is not only to help clients heal, but to also empower them to create better tomorrows for themselves.Support the Show.Connect with Lina on @linaforrestal on InstagramFollow the @newmamaspodcast on InstagramRead Lina's Blog: www.linaforrestal.comSupport the Show: Buy Me a Coffee (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/newmamaspodcast)

My daughter, Evelyn, was born last week on November 27th! I recorded this episode with my postpartum doula, Katie, back in October. I'm super excited for her to start with our family next week! Katie is a mom of four and a postpartum doula who is passionate about health and wellness.In this episode, we talk about:What is a postpartum doula?What is a postpartum doula's most important job?What has Katie learned from her own motherhood experience that she takes into doula care.How far in advance should someone book a postpartum doula?How much does it cost to hire a postpartum doula? How long does “postpartum” last? How long can a family hire a postpartum doula for?How does she talk to moms who she recognizes might have some postpartum anxiety or even postpartum depression symptoms?Where she notices families need the most help How much a postpartum doula costs More about Katie: Katie has been a student of yoga for 20 years and became a trained 200RYT in 2012 in Vinyasa flow.  As a yoga instructor, Katie is able to bring her knowledge of the body and mind to help clients find balance in their transitions into motherhood and beyond. Katie is also passionate about Chinese medicine, meditation, the law of attraction, astrology, and babywearing. Life in Bloom WellnessInstagram: @lifeinbloomwellnessSupport the Show.Connect with Lina on @linaforrestal on InstagramFollow the @newmamaspodcast on InstagramRead Lina's Blog: www.linaforrestal.comSupport the Show: Buy Me a Coffee (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/newmamaspodcast)