Life lately feels a bit overwhelming with the seemingly never-ending negative events being hurled our way, but I am trying my best to remain optimistic about all of the positive things that MUST be coming our way... right?! Between house problems, vehicle problems, health problems, work problems, and pregnancy not being super fun, life has been a bit hectic to say the least. So I wanted to take a moment to acknowledge the difficulty of working through things when there doesn't seem to be an end in sight, and remind you that giving yourself grace is an extremely important thing to do. One day at a time, Mama! Let's connect on Instagram! @morethanamother.pod @elena.joy4life

We're officially halfway through this pregnancy! It is somehow flying by and going ridiculously slow at the same time... it's wild. Also, being pregnant with a toddler running around is NEXT. LEVEL. But anyway, in this week's episode I compare the main symptoms of both of my pregnancies, and also go over some typical gender wives tales to see if you can guess the gender of this baby. Leave your guess in the comments! IG: @morethanamother.pod @elena.joy4life

In this week's short and sweet episode, I wanted to share an open letter to all Mamas to serve as a reminder that their worth is not tied to their looks. How good of a mother you are has nothing to do with your body or how clean your house is. I feel like we all forget that some days and need a reminder.  You are so much more than a mother. Let's connect! IG: @morethanamother.pod @elena.joy4life

In this week's episode, I share a fun fact and get real and raw about my current worries and fears. Fellow Mamas, did your toddler do similar witchcraft?? I hope my vulnerability helps at least one of you feel less alone in your thoughts/feelings regarding motherhood. This season of life is the best and most stressful, but I know it will all be worth it. Let's connect on Instagram! @morethanamother.pod @elena.joy4life

In this week's episode, I wanted to share my 5 current favourite parenting quotes/tips/tidbits. Each one of them have either given me relief or a perspective shift that's helped me look at situations in a more positive light. I hope at least one of them speak to you, too. Let's connect on Instagram!@morethanamother.pod@elena.joy4life

In today's episode,  I discuss the wild reality of navigating motherhood while being both independent and introverted. Asking for help can be very difficult, but I am here to remind you that you deserve breaks and breathers. But, if you are someone who also feels the need to do everything by yourself, and you're overwhelmed by motherhood, I'm also here to remind you that the days will come where you can finally breathe again. Comment below -- are you a fellow independent introvert? Let's connect on Instagram!@morethanamother.pod@elena.joy4life

In this week's episode, my goal is to help people see the value that moms bring to the home. It's unreal how many tasks tend to fall on the mother's shoulders and how much is expected of them. Whether you are a mom or not, this episode is an eye opener for all of the behind the scenes that you might not be aware of. So please listen to this episode and let yourself learn about the work load that your loved one might be overwhelmed by. And, if you are a mom, I see you. You are doing incredible and important work, and your kids are lucky to have you. Of course, I am speaking from my experience as a stay at home -- this will not be every mom's reality. Let's connect!IG: @morethanamother.pod @elena.joy4life

Today's episode is a deeper dive into the "More Than A Mother" name and what I mean by it. I feel like there's such an intense pressure around women becoming mothers, that it's really important to make sure women know how important they are as a whole person -- without children. Becoming a mom can be the most magical thing ever, but it doesn't have to be ALL that you are. And I think more women need to realize that, so they stop accepting bare minimum from others and start expecting the rigth treatment. Far too many ladies are falling through the cracks because they've been cast into their kid's shadow.I rambled on and didn't quite get to everything I meant to say, but I hope this episode still helped you realize the fact that you, as a woman and a whole person, are completely worthy of all that life has to offer -- regardless of whether or not someone calls you Mom. Let's connect!@morethanamother.pod@elena.joy4life

Have you heard about the new health tracker rings?I fell in love with the idea of a health tracker that doesn't have a disctracting screen and is super minimalistic compared to a smart watch. So, I purchased the Ultrahuman Ring and want to share my thoughts/insights about smart rings for anyone who might be considering getting one.--for reference, I am a size 5 in regular jewelry (index finger), but a size 6 in the Ultrahuman ring sizes Have any questions or comments? I'd love to chat! Let's connect on Instagram:@morethanamother.pod@elena.joy4life

Let's talk about a subtle hardship of having kids -- naming them! It's crazy to me just how much rides on this one little decision. One that is often made before the kids are even born...Tell me, did you struggle choosing names for your kid(s)? Comment below! Let's connect! IG: @morethanamother.pod @elena.joy4life

Today I want to share my top 10 takeaways from last year, before we get too far into this year! I am thankful for the way that 2024 opened my eyes, and I am excited to see what 2025 brings. Which takeaway was your favourite? Let's connect! IG: @morethanamother.pod // @elena.joy4life

Once the title of “Mom” has been given to you, it can be so hard to know who you are outside of it. After going through pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and 17 months of breastfeeding, I feel like the fog is finally lifting. Come along on this chaotic journey as I try to explain what it feels like to be “just me” again.

In this quick intro episode, I wanted to give a brief overview of what this podcast is going to encompass -- motherhood, self-discovery, and womanhood. Through sharing my thoughts & experiences as a first time mom, my goal is to create a loving and supportive community for the women who might feel alone in motherhood.Thank you for taking time out of your day to listen!