Summary
In this conversation, Jessica Campbell explores the complexities of productivity, self-worth, and the importance of connection in our lives. She discusses how traditional metrics of productivity can lead to feelings of emptiness and inadequacy, especially for those with ADHD. The conversation emphasizes the need for a cultural shift towards valuing connection and vulnerability over mere output, advocating for a more compassionate approach to self-care and interpersonal relationships.
Takeaways
Connect With Me:
Motherhood is shifting in 2026—and if you feel it in your body, you’re not imagining it. Parent mental health is becoming a public health conversation, loneliness is changing family dynamics, “gentle parenting” is moving toward kind-but-firm limits, tech boundaries are turning into family values, and AI is trying to become the village (with real risks).
In this episode, I break down the biggest 2026 parenting trends from multiple sources and what Pinterest searches reveal about what moms are craving: safety, softness, and real support. Plus: simple tools you can use this week.
Connect With Me:
Multiple Sources Include:
U.S. Surgeon General / HHS guidance re: parent well-being + child well-being
Gallup reporting on mental health ratings
American Psychological Association “Crisis of Connection” theme
Talker Research re: parenting style shifts / hybrid parenting conversation
American Academy of Pediatrics + HealthyChildren.org guidance on family media plans
HHS guidance on youth + social media (reinforcing boundaries + modeling)
Spring Health trends: AI use + continuous care models
TIME / PolitiFact / UNICEF: AI companions/toys, safety + development concerns
Lyra Health: burnout trends + mental health leave patterns
Pinterest Predicts 2026: self-preservation/escapism/nonconformity framing + trend signals
If motherhood made you feel like a background character, this one’s for you. You’re not crazy. You’re evolving. Let’s talk matrescence, martyrdom, and taking your main-character energy back.
Summary
This conversation explores the transformative journey of motherhood, focusing on the concept of matrescence, the identity shifts that come with becoming a mother, and the challenges faced during this transition. The discussion highlights the importance of self-care, vulnerability, and rediscovering personal passions while navigating the complexities of parenting. The speaker shares personal experiences with postpartum challenges and the impact of coaching on family dynamics, emphasizing the need for mothers to find their voice and let go of control to foster healthier relationships.
Chapters
00:00 Welcome
05:07 Understanding Matrescence
08:20 The Challenges of Early Motherhood
11:11 Identity Shifts and Self-Care
14:12 Balancing Masculine and Feminine Energy
17:07 Personal Journeys Through Motherhood
19:48 Navigating Postpartum Experiences
22:44 Burnout and Finding Purpose
27:33 Emotional Awareness and Coaching
30:40 Letting Go of Control
32:20 The Maternal Wall and Expectations
35:05 Rediscovering Passions Through Writing
38:55 Transformative Impact on Family Dynamics
41:18 Shifting Perspectives on Motherhood
44:12 The Pursuit of Happiness
46:22 Embracing Vulnerability and Resilience
49:37 Finding Your Voice in Motherhood
51:54 Building a Supportive Community for Moms
52:24 Embracing Self-Care and Personal Growth
Connect with Sarah:
Meet The Reclaimed Woman — a podcast for moms who are done carrying everything alone. Jessica introduces the mission behind the show: to help you understand your nervous system, rewrite old patterns, and stop spiraling your way through motherhood.
If you want to break generational crap, feel seen, and become the version of yourself you’ve been missing, this trailer is your sign. This is where the reclamation begins.
Summary
In this conversation, Jessica Campbell explores the profound transformation that occurs in motherhood, emphasizing the concept of matrescence, the mental load mothers carry, and the journey of self-discovery amidst the chaos. She discusses the emotional and psychological changes that come with parenting, the importance of recognizing one's own needs, and the necessity of healing through the parenting experience. Jessica encourages mothers to embrace their evolving identities and offers practical tips for rediscovering themselves while navigating the challenges of motherhood.
Takeaways
Connect With Me:
Follow @bestjesscampbell
Loop Earplugs (commissionable link)
Motherhood isn’t always the highlight reel we see online — and for moms with ADHD or neurodivergent kids, it can feel downright impossible at times. In this honest, supportive episode, Ashley shares her journey from survival mode to self-understanding, the moment everything clicked during her son’s diagnosis, and why the holidays can intensify sensory and emotional stress. This is your reminder that you’re not broken… you’re human.
Connect with Ashley
Want more from Ashley? Check out her work at theguidingwell.com or send her an email at ashley@theguidingwell.com
Subscribe to the Show
If you felt seen or supported by this episode, hit follow or subscribe. That’s how we keep growing this village and making sure no mom feels alone.
Come Hang Out with Me
I don’t hang out on every social platform even though I am technically, but you can find me on:
TikTok — where I share relatable mom moments + ADHD supportPinterest — full of tips, tools, and resources for everyday motherhood
Follow me and let’s keep this conversation going.
I wasn’t planning to release this episode until December… but honestly? After the year I’ve had, waiting didn’t feel right. This is the soft, gentle return — the “I’m back, but I’m coming in slow and honest this time” episode.
Today I’m sharing why I took a break, what burnout really looked like for me, and the uncomfortable truth about losing yourself while trying to hold everything together. If you’ve felt alone, overwhelmed, emotionally fried, or unsure of who you’re becoming… this one’s for you.
We’re talking about healing, clarity, identity, mothering through exhaustion, and what it looks like to come home to yourself after feeling disconnected for way too long.
If you’re walking into the holidays heavy, tired, or stretched thin, I hope this feels like a warm place to land. I’m back. I’m here. And this next season of the podcast is going to be different — in the best way.
LINKS:
Follow @bestjesscampbell
Loop Earplugs (commissionable link)
If this episode speaks to you, share it with another mom or friend who might be carrying more than she lets on. And if you’re ready to stick around for this new season of honest conversations, hit subscribe — we’re just getting started.
This one’s gonna stick with you.
Jessica’s not just a mom—she’s a mom of six, a brand-new nana, a business owner, and someone who’s walked through grief, healing, and hope in some of the rawest ways imaginable. In this episode, we talk about what it really looks like to build a family—through birth, loss, and international adoption.
We cover:
Lose a child at 37 weeks and still growing your family
The wild (and painfully slow) ride of international adoption
Facing the backlash of being a white mom raising a Black son
How she knew her adopted son was meant to be hers—even when the “movie moment” never came
The hard, beautiful lessons in patience, identity, and trauma
Why “bonding issues” and “it’s too expensive” are myths worth breaking
And yes, what happens when your adoption post goes viral and the internet comes for you
Spoiler: Giraffes and God both make appearances.
Whether you’re a parent, someone considering adoption, or just curious about the real-life stuff people don’t put on Instagram, this one’s for you.
FOLLOW JESSICA: 👉 Instagram: @jessicamandile
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Timehop (for the memory lane scroll)
Adoption Airfare (for more affordable travel)
Foster care vs. international adoption pros and cons
Real talk on the “white savior” narrative
YOUR HOST: Jess, your go-to mom friend who’ll cry with you, laugh with you, and probably forget where she put her coffee. Again.
Connect With Me:
Subscribe
Follow on @bestjesscampbell for updates
Leave a review on your favorite podcast platform
Summary
In this conversation, we discuss the challenges of parenting, particularly focusing on sleep issues faced by children and their parents. We explore the role of a child sleep consultant, the importance of establishing a consistent bedtime routine, and the misconceptions surrounding sleep training. The conversation emphasizes the need for parents to seek help and the value of understanding individual family dynamics when it comes to sleep. Practical tips and tools for improving sleep quality are also shared, highlighting the significance of creating a conducive sleep environment.
Takeaways
Connect with Majo:
Connect With Me:
Subscribe
Follow on @bestjesscampbell for updates
Leave a review on your favorite podcast platform
Summary
This conversation delves into the complexities of parenting, focusing on breaking generational cycles, the importance of emotional connection, and the journey of self-awareness. The speakers share personal experiences and insights on how to foster meaningful relationships with children through play, compassion, and understanding individual needs. They emphasize the significance of celebrating small wins and creating a collaborative family dynamic that nurtures growth and connection.
Takeaways
Parenting is a journey that requires continuous growth.
Breaking generational cycles is essential for healthier relationships.
Emotional connection is crucial for effective parenting.
Play can be a powerful tool for communication and bonding.
Self-awareness helps in understanding triggers and reactions.
Celebrating small wins can boost confidence in parenting.
Collaboration within the family fosters a supportive environment.
Understanding each child's unique needs is vital for effective parenting.
Compassion for oneself is important during parenting challenges.
Creating routines can enhance family connections and stability.
Sound Bites
"I call myself a professional parent."
"Play is a powerful tool for connection."
"Celebrate your small wins in parenting."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Abby's Journey
05:27 Breaking Generational Cycles in Parenting
09:56 The Importance of Emotional Connection
14:39 Self-Reflection and Personal Growth
19:23 Techniques for Better Parenting
24:39 Creating Meaningful Connections with Children
29:31 The Power of Bedtime Routines
37:01 Navigating Family Dynamics and Collaboration
38:39 The Importance of Play in Parenting
41:07 Finding Joy in Everyday Moments
44:33 Reframing Play as Fun
46:26 Involving Kids in Daily Activities
48:13 Understanding Generational Patterns in Parenting
50:25 The Importance of Self-Awareness in Parenting
Connect with Abimbola Akanji:
Connect With Me:
Subscribe
Follow on @jessica.cambell.co for updates
Leave a review on your favorite podcast platform
Full Show Blog:
Music by https://www.free-stock-music.com
Episode Summary:
In this powerful and deeply personal episode, we get into the complex and emotional journey of healing from toxic parents while raising children of your own. If you’ve ever struggled with breaking the cycle of generational trauma, felt triggered by your child’s emotions, or carried guilt over your parenting choices, this episode is for you.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Key Takeaways:
💡 Healing is messy but necessary – Acknowledging and validating your experiences is the first step.
💡 You always have a choice – Breaking cycles is about choosing to do things differently, even when it’s hard.
💡 Your kids don’t need a perfect parent; they need a present one – Small changes make a huge impact.
💡 Guilt is often a sign of conditioning, not wrongdoing – Learn to separate internalized shame from true accountability.
💡 Boundaries are essential – Protecting your peace is not selfish; it’s necessary for healing.
Affirmation for This Episode:
💬 “I am healing. I am breaking cycles. I am enough.”
Resources & Next Steps:
👉 Join the conversation! What resonated with you the most? Connect with me online and share your thoughts!
Until next time, remember: You are healing. You are enough.
Music by https://www.free-stock-music.com
Summary
In this episode of Mom Mentality, Jessica Campbell discusses the unrealistic standards placed on mothers by society and themselves. She emphasizes the importance of embracing imperfection and authenticity in motherhood, highlighting the need for self-care and community support. Jess encourages mothers to redefine what it means to be a good mom, focusing on connection and compassion rather than perfection.
Takeaways
Show Note Blog: https://jessicacampbellco.com/blog/9757/what-it-really-means-to-be-a-good-mom-and-why-you-re-already-enough-
Connect With Me:
Subscribe
Follow on @jessica.cambell.co for updates
Leave a review on your favorite podcast platform
In this conversation, Rima, a parenting coach, discusses the importance of connection, self-care, and community in parenting. She emphasizes the need for awareness and reflection in parenting practices, the impact of childhood experiences on adult relationships, and the significance of building authentic connections. The discussion also touches on the challenges of being an expat parent and the importance of emotional intelligence in navigating relationships. Rima advocates for conscious parenting and the ripple effect it can have on families and communities. In this conversation, the speakers explore the complexities of parenting, emphasizing the importance of human connection, understanding different personalities, and the journey of personal growth. They discuss the challenges of parenting in a modern context, the influence of culture, and the need for community support. The dialogue highlights the significance of defining family goals and the balance between authority and flexibility in parenting. Ultimately, the speakers encourage parents to seek harmony and connection in their relationships with their children.
Takeaways:
Parenting is a journey that requires self-awareness and reflection.
Building authentic connections is crucial for personal and familial growth.
Self-care is not selfish; it's essential for effective parenting.
Community support can significantly impact parenting experiences.
Understanding childhood trauma can help in healing adult relationships.
Emotional intelligence is key to navigating parenting challenges.
Conscious living enhances relationships and parenting.
Parenting skills can create a ripple effect in families.
It's important to embrace imperfections in parenting.
Creating a supportive environment is vital for both parents and children. Parenting is a journey of trial and error.
It's important to communicate openly with children about parenting efforts.
Every individual deserves to be valued as a human being.
Connection is essential for cooperation and harmony in parenting.
Parenting requires practice and the development of skills over time.
Understanding different personalities helps in meeting children's needs.
Cultural influences shape our parenting styles and decisions.
Flexibility and open communication are key in parenting.
Defining family goals helps guide parenting decisions.
Community support is vital for navigating parenting challenges.
Connect with Rima:
Connect With Me:
Subscribe
Follow on @jessica.cambell.co for updates
Leave a review on your favorite podcast platform
Show Notes Blog: https://jessicacampbellco.com/blog/9697/beyond-borders-the-heart-and-science-of-parenting-with-rima-elahi-syed
Music by https://www.free-stock-music.com
In this episode, I sit down with Michelle Tovar, a longtime Montessori teacher turned parent coach. Michelle shares her journey from the classroom to coaching, helping parents break cycles of frustration, guilt, and yelling. She provides insights into becoming a calm leader for your children, using practical tools, strategies, and systems to foster better communication. As a mom herself, Michelle understands the challenges of balancing different developmental stages and offers compassionate guidance to parents navigating modern-day parenting struggles.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation on breaking generational patterns and creating a more connected, peaceful home.
Connect with Michelle:
Show Notes Blog: https://jessicacampbellco.com/blog/9491/from-reacting-to-responding-parenting-with-confidence-with-michelle-tovar
Connect With Me:
Subscribe
Follow on @jessica.cambell.co for updates
Leave a review on your favorite podcast platform
Listen to the full episode:
Music by https://www.free-stock-music.com
In this episode, we sit down with Catalina Allen, owner of Intentionally Focused, a parent education and coaching company. Catalina shares her journey from being a passionate reading interventionist and public school teacher to becoming a young school administrator. She now channels her expertise into empowering families and helping parents create intentional strategies for growth and connection.
Discover how Catalina’s passion for education drives her mission to transform family dynamics and inspire holistic learning experiences.
What You'll Learn:
Catalina’s background in education and how it shaped her career. The pivotal moments that led her to start her coaching company. Insights into creating intentional family structures for success.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation about redefining education at home and beyond!
Connect with Catalina:
www.getintentionallyfocused.com
Find Your Core Values with this 2 Minute Quiz
Full Show Notes:
https://jessicacampbellco.com/blog/9407/parenting-through-purpose-how-values-shape-family-connection
Music by https://www.free-stock-music.com
In this podcast episode, Amanda Rodriguez discusses the challenges and strategies for parenting a child with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). Amanda shares her personal experiences and insights on how to navigate the unique needs of PDA children, including the importance of understanding their anxiety-driven behavior, shifting language to empower them, and building a strong support system.
As an act of radical unconditional love, the episode emphasizes the significance of compassion, acceptance and creating a nurturing environment for PDA children to thrive.
Full Show Notes/Blog:
Connect with Amanda:
Resources:
Music by https://www.free-stock-music.com
This episode walks through the reality of parental overwhelm, offering practical strategies to navigate those chaotic moments and transform them into opportunities for connection and growth.
Key Takeaways:
Emotional overwhelm is normal: It's that feeling of being swamped by stress, anxiety, and frustration. It's common in parenting, but it doesn't have to control you.
Overwhelm is an opportunity: Instead of getting stuck in the chaos, see these moments as chances to break negative cycles and teach your kids valuable emotional skills.
Handle overwhelm:
Find your grounding to calm your nervous system.
Learn to identify and express your feelings, and model this for your children. It's okay to not be perfect!
Offer empathy, understanding, and create a space for connection after the storm.
Tools and Resources:
"Quick Wins for Emotional Moments" Cheat Sheet: Download this resource for practical tips to handle overwhelming moments. Link: https://jessicacampbellco.com/marketplace/products/quick-wins-for-emotional-moments-cheat-sheet
Actionable Steps:
When feeling overwhelmed, acknowledge your own emotions and check in with your child.
Find small ways to refill your cup and recharge.
Share this episode with another parent who could benefit from these strategies.
Show Notes Blog: www.jessicacampbell.com/blog
Connect With Me:
Subscribe
Follow on @jessica.cambell.co for updates
Leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!
In this empowering episode, Jessica Campbell sits down with Sonya Belletti, an ICF-certified life coach and therapist with over 25 years of experience, to delve into a topic that resonates with many high-achieving women: postpartum anxiety. Together, they unpack the unique pressures faced by women who strive for perfection in every facet of life—from career to motherhood—and how these pressures can manifest as anxiety during the postpartum period. Sonya shares her expert insights on the distinction between general anxiety and postpartum anxiety, offering practical strategies to navigate this challenging time while embracing imperfection.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Understanding Postpartum Anxiety– What sets postpartum anxiety apart from general anxiety?– Common symptoms and how they often go unrecognized in high-achieving women.
The Role of Perfectionism– How the “perfection myth” impacts new mothers, particularly those accustomed to excelling in their careers.– Why the pursuit of perfection in motherhood can fuel feelings of inadequacy and anxiety.
Redefining Success in Motherhood– Strategies to let go of perfectionism and embrace “good enough” parenting.– The power of self-compassion and building a supportive community.
Tools and Resources for High-Achieving Moms– Practical techniques to manage postpartum anxiety.– How to shift from “Stuck Thoughts” to “Power Thoughts” (Jessica’s mindset model).
Memorable Ideas Based on This Episode:
“Perfection is an illusion that keeps us stuck. Motherhood isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being present.”
“High-achieving women often feel they need to do it all, but sometimes, the most courageous act is asking for help.”
Connect With Sonya Belletti:
Sonya’s coaching practice: https://paperbell.me/sonya-belletti
Sonya’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sonyabelletticoaching/
Resources:
PostPartum Support International https://www.postpartum.net/?utm_source=google_cpc&utm_medium=ad_grant&utm_campaign=cbc_ggrant_CBCGrant|BrandedMXC&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiA-Oi7BhA1EiwA2rIu2-FUt-OGla1fhMSRcGSW1XESv221lR0lhc2G5g20Oed_T-eH5ZvJIBoCpbAQAvD_BwE
PostPartum Support Center: https://www.postpartumsc.org/
Show Notes Blog: https://jessicacampbellco.com/blog/9195/breaking-the-perfection-myth-postpartum-anxiety-in-high-achieving-women-with-sonya-belletti
Connect With Me:
Subscribe
Follow on @jessica.cambell.co for updates
Leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!
Episode Summary:
Welcome back to Mom Mentality! If you’ve ever felt trapped in the relentless pursuit of perfection as a mom, this episode is your much-needed reminder that "good enough" is not only okay—it’s powerful. Jess dives into what it truly means to fall in love with motherhood, not by achieving perfection, but by releasing the unrealistic expectations that weigh us down.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
The pressures and myths surrounding "perfect motherhood" and why they’re so damaging.
Actionable steps to embrace the B+ parenting mindset—showing up with love, consistency, and "enoughness."
How letting go of perfection can deepen your connection with your children and create a more joyful home life.
Jess also shares personal stories and practical tips to help you reframe your mindset, find more balance, and reclaim your joy in parenting.
Key Takeaways:
"Perfection is overrated. Consistency and love are what truly matter in motherhood."
"B+ parenting isn’t about lowering your standards; it’s about redefining success on your own terms."
"When we let go of the pursuit of perfection, we make space for connection, growth, and grace."
Mentioned in This Episode:
The power of the "enoughness" mindset.
Practical tools to navigate the emotional challenges of parenting.
Connect:
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow mom who needs this reminder. Follow Jess on Instagram for daily inspiration, or visit jessicacampbellco.com for resources and coaching opportunities to help you thrive in motherhood.
Full Show Notes:
Join the Conversation:
What does "enoughness" mean to you in your parenting journey? Share your thoughts and stories with us on social media!
*Music by https://www.free-stock-music.com
This was a great conversation with Sarah Sterling, a parenting coach and mom of two. We discussed the concept of "matrescence," which is the identity shift of becoming a mom. This can be a challenging time for many women, as they are essentially becoming a new person. We talked about the importance of self-care and how to balance motherhood with other aspects of life.
I share a personal story about getting my tubes removed. It was a difficult decision, but I think it was the right one for me.
We also talked about the importance of letting go of control and how to deal with burnout.
If you are feeling overwhelmed by motherhood, please know that you are not alone. There are resources available to help you.
I hope you enjoy this episode!
Resources:
Connect with Sarah:
instagram: jessica.campbell.co
Join my V.I.P Moms community for moms Valuing Intention and Presence, find like minded people and resources in out library.
*Music by https://www.free-stock-music.com