In this episode of Life Talks with Lauren, I open up about the complicated, beautiful, and sometimes lonely reality of friendship during pregnancy. I share my perspective from both sides — first as someone who was childfree and never fully understood what my pregnant or new-mom friends were going through, and now as the one experiencing pregnancy myself. I talk about the unexpected loneliness that can come with this season of life and how difficult it can be to express those feelings without worrying that it will sound like blame or criticism. I explore the disconnect that often happens between pregnant people and their friends, why it happens, and how I’m learning to understand it with more compassion now that I’m in it. I also share how my partner has stepped in to make sure I feel seen, supported, and cared for during this time — from quality time to emotional presence — and how that has meant more than words can say. One of the biggest shifts I’m making is learning to accept that this is a phase. It won’t be this way forever. I’m choosing to embrace this alone time, recognizing that these quiet, sacred moments with myself won’t last forever once the baby arrives. With that perspective, gratitude has become a grounding force: gratitude for the people who do show up, empathy for those who don’t know how yet, and appreciation for the lessons I’m learning about showing up for others. I talk about how this season is teaching me to better support people in tender chapters — whether they’re grieving, navigating pregnancy, or adjusting to new parenthood. So many people hesitate to reach out because they’re afraid of saying the “wrong” thing, but truly, most of us just want to know someone is thinking of us. I certainly won’t be criticizing how anyone chooses to show up for me — I’ll just be grateful that they did. Tune in for a heartfelt, honest conversation about friendship, loneliness, gratitude, and the unexpected emotional lessons pregnancy brings.