Do you want the truth?

Latest Episodes:

Pushing Through Parenthood with @KaratheBabyNurse Nov 27, 2024

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Get ready to laugh, learn, and feel seen! In this episode of Do You Want the Truth, Paige and Samantha sit down with Kara, aka @KaratheBabyNurse, a married, Southern mom of three (ages 6, 4, and 2) who’s as real as they come. Kara’s not just a mom—she’s also a postpartum nurse with plenty of firsthand experience and professional wisdom to share.
Kara spills the tea on everything from marathon labors to sprint-to-the-hospital deliveries, juggling life with kids close in age, and her best tips for surviving postpartum without losing your mind. Packed with laughs, heartfelt moments, and practical advice, this episode is your ultimate guide to navigating the ups and downs of parenthood.
Whether you’re prepping for birth, knee-deep in sleepless nights, or just trying to make it through toddler tantrums, Kara’s got you covered. This is the crash course in parenting you didn’t know you needed.
What You’ll Learn:

Birth Stories: The drama of a 24-hour labor vs. barely making it to the hospital.
Postpartum Realities: Why the first two weeks are no joke and how to make it through.
Parenting Age Gaps: The chaos and charm of raising kids two years apart.
Labor Prep: How getting your head in the game is just as critical as packing your hospital bag.
Unexpected Joys: Why kids make even a trip to a car museum feel magical.

Learn more about Kara on our website here:
Instagram @Karathebabynurse
TikTok: @karathebabynurse
Her Website: www.karathebabynurse.com
Baby Sleep Course: Expert guidance for 0-12 months
Book: Why Didn’t I Learn This Parenting Stuff Sooner? – available on Amazon.
YouTube Video: Postpartum Masterclass
Tips from Kara

Keywords
Parenting podcast
Kara the Baby Nurse
Birth stories
Postpartum survival tips
Parenting young children
Labor and delivery advice
Motherhood experiences
Raising kids close in age
Mental preparation for labor
First-time mom advice
Postpartum recovery
Parenting milestones
Real talk about parenting
Parenting podcast episodes
Practical parenting tips

Support the show

Website: https://www.doyouwantthetruthpod.com

Connect with Sam:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/samanthastrom

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@samanthastorms

Connect with Zara:

Zara Hanawalt https://www.linkedin.com/in/zara-hanawalt/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@zarahanawalt

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zarahanawalt/

Real Talk on Motherhood: Embracing Joy, Community, and Gentle Parenting with Audi Ferrin Nov 20, 2024

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In this episode, Sam and Paige chat with Audi Ferrin about the ups and downs of parenting, the importance of gratitude, and the value of having a supportive village. Audi shares her experiences of growing up with gentle parents and how that influenced her parenting style. From the joys of being needed by her children to the challenges of balancing work and motherhood, Audi provides a candid look into her life and the lessons she's learned along the way. Whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one, this episode is filled with heartwarming stories and practical advice that will resonate with anyone navigating the journey of parenthood.
Key Topics Discussed:

Audie’s journey from being a full-time hairstylist to a stay-at-home mom.
The importance of gratitude and how it helps maintain mental health.
Audie’s unique love story and how it shaped her approach to life and family.
The realities of gentle parenting versus permissive parenting.
Building a supportive network and the importance of community in motherhood.
Tips for balancing self-care with the demands of parenting.

Instagram: @Audi.Ferrin
TikTok: @Audi.Ferrin
Podcast: wait, but how?

Memorable Quotes:
“Gratitude is a superpower that can make your life magical.”
“The hardest things are usually the best things for us.”
“Gentle parenting is not about being permissive; it's about respect.”
Gentle Parenting Tips, Motherhood and Mental Health, Parenting with Gratitude, Building a Supportive Village for Moms, Marriage and Parenting Advice, Positive Parenting Techniques, Balancing Work and Motherhood, Navigating Parenting Challenges, Creating a Family Support System, Parenting Stories and Insights, Motherhood Journey Podcast, Audie Ferrin Parenting Tips, Gratitude in Parenting, Finding Joy in Motherhood, Respectful Parenting Approaches, Mom Life Inspiration, Community Support for Parents, Motherhood Podcast Episodes, Parenting Advice from Real Moms, Family Dynamics and Parenting.

Support the show

Website: https://www.doyouwantthetruthpod.com

Connect with Sam:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/samanthastrom

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@samanthastorms

Connect with Zara:

Zara Hanawalt https://www.linkedin.com/in/zara-hanawalt/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@zarahanawalt

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zarahanawalt/

Navigating Postpartum Anxiety, Quitting the 9-to-5, and Advocating for Moms: Linzay Davis’s Journey to Empower Parents Nov 13, 2024

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Ever feel like parenting is an unpredictable rollercoaster? You’re not alone. In today’s episode, we’re sitting down with the incredible Linzay Davis, an advocate for parental leave, mom of two, and all-around champion for new parents. Linzay gets real about the gut-punch reality of postpartum anxiety and depression, the chaos of parenting during a pandemic, and the life-changing moment that made her quit her job to start a mission-driven business helping other parents. This episode is packed with jaw-dropping truths, raw honesty, and even some laugh-out-loud moments—like why her daughter’s obsession with princess dresses has become a daily adventure.
You’ll walk away from this conversation feeling informed, empowered, and maybe even inspired to let your kid wear that Elsa dress to the grocery store. Trust us, Linzay’s story is the parenting pep talk you didn’t know you needed.
Links & Resources:
Maximize Your Parental Leave: Linzay’s Parental Leave Consulting Services (seriously, if you’re pregnant or planning to be, check this out)

Support for Postpartum Mental Health: Postpartum Support International
Follow Linzay’s Journey: Instagram | LinkedIn (she keeps it real, relatable, and super helpful!)
Episode Topics : [0:15] - Meet Linzay Davis, [2:25] - The Challenges of Parenting a Three-Year-Old, [5:45] - Pregnancy During the Pandemic, [10:34] - Postpartum Anxiety and Depression, [14:43] - The Life-Changing Impact of Zoloft, [20:19] - The Trauma of a Car Accident, [29:41] - Deciding to Quit Her Job, [34:26] - Launching Her Business as a Parental Leave Consultant, [43:03] - ADHD Diagnosis Consideration, [47:52] - Advocating for Yourself as a New Parent, [50:34] - Finding Unexpected Joy in Parenting
Keywords
Parental leave advocate, postpartum anxiety, postpartum depression, parenting during COVID, motherhood journey, parental leave consultant, pregnancy during pandemic, working mom struggles, ADHD and motherhood, mom mental health, postpartum support, princess dresses, parenting tips.
Website: https://theparkconsulting.com/
TikTok & Instagram @theparkconsulting

Support the show

Website: https://www.doyouwantthetruthpod.com

Connect with Sam:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/samanthastrom

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@samanthastorms

Connect with Zara:

Zara Hanawalt https://www.linkedin.com/in/zara-hanawalt/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@zarahanawalt

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zarahanawalt/

Parenting as a Catalyst for Advocacy: A Conversation with Blessing Adesiyan Oyeleye Nov 06, 2024

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In this episode, Blessing Adesiyan, founder of Mother Honestly, shares her powerful journey as a working mother and advocate for caregivers. Blessing opens up about the personal challenges of finding affordable, sustainable care for her four children and the broader implications for families across the U.S. She discusses the critical need for companies to recognize and support the caregiving responsibilities of their employees, emphasizing paid leave as an essential transition period for parents.
Blessing also delves into the often-unacknowledged value of unpaid caregiving work and the need for policy changes that involve men in the conversation around care. She stresses the importance of empathy, curiosity, and genuine understanding from men as key to reshaping care responsibilities. This episode is a call to action for companies, families, and communities to value care more equitably and advocate for meaningful change.
Key Takeaways:

Navigating care as a working mother is challenging, especially with limited affordable care options in the U.S.
Companies must prioritize caregiving support through policies like paid leave.
Valuing unpaid caregiving work is essential for recognizing its true impact on families and communities.
Involving men in the conversation about caregiving is crucial, as they control many of the structures that shape care policies.
Approach conversations about care with empathy, and encourage curiosity from all stakeholders.
Never make assumptions about caregiving needs—ask questions and listen.
Parenting often leads to unexpected opportunities to advocate for better care policies.

Keywords: working mothers, caregiver support, workplace policies, paid leave, caregiving advocacy, men and caregiving, unpaid work, care redistribution, caregiving challenges, caregap, daycare, childcare, equitable care policies.

Support the show

Website: https://www.doyouwantthetruthpod.com

Connect with Sam:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/samanthastrom

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@samanthastorms

Connect with Zara:

Zara Hanawalt https://www.linkedin.com/in/zara-hanawalt/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@zarahanawalt

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zarahanawalt/

Unexplained Infertility, Birth Complications, and the Messy Joy of Motherhood with Maggie, a former Pickleball pro! Oct 30, 2024

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In this raw and revealing episode, Maggie Remynse joins us to share her journey from unexplained infertility to motherhood, navigating the unexpected hurdles of fertility treatments, a traumatic birth, and the early days of parenthood. Maggie, a 32-year-old mom to a 6.5-month-old son, opens up about the emotional and financial toll of IVF treatments and shares her experiences managing challenging pregnancy complications. Living in Northern New Jersey with her husband, Maggie works as the VP of Curriculum/Content at an EdTech company, where she leads a team of data scientists creating data-driven learning content for corporate tech e-learning.
Beyond her professional life, Maggie’s story is even more unique as a former Division 1 athlete turned professional pickleball player. Ranked in the top 20 worldwide before her pregnancy, she played her last professional tournament at 12 weeks pregnant and now coaches pickleball in her spare time. In this conversation, Maggie highlights the harsh realities often left unsaid about fertility treatments, birth trauma, and early motherhood while shedding light on the resilience required to navigate it all.
Maggie’s Joy
Maggie shares that her favorite moment each day is when she goes to pick up her son from his crib. His beaming smile when he sees her each morning fills her with happiness and makes all the challenges she’s faced worthwhile. For Maggie, these simple, joyful moments with her son bring the greatest sense of fulfillment.
Maggie’s Advice
For those beginning the journey into motherhood or navigating fertility challenges, Maggie advises: "Be prepared in whatever way feels right for you." She wishes she had researched more and prepared herself for the realities of fertility treatments, potential birth complications, and the early days of parenting. Maggie encourages other new or expectant parents to seek out information and resources that help them feel informed, especially if they’re the type of person who finds comfort in preparation.
Resources:
The Wonder Weeks
Maggie's Episode Page

Support the show

Website: https://www.doyouwantthetruthpod.com

Connect with Sam:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/samanthastrom

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@samanthastorms

Connect with Zara:

Zara Hanawalt https://www.linkedin.com/in/zara-hanawalt/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@zarahanawalt

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zarahanawalt/

Balancing Boardrooms and Babies: Stephanie’s Story Oct 23, 2024

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Balancing Career and Motherhood: Stephanie’s Inspiring Journey Through NICU Challenges, Advocacy, and Career Success
Description: In this episode, we sit down with Stephanie, a Chief Merchandising Officer and mother of two, who shares her unique journey from being a career-driven woman to embracing motherhood later in life. Stephanie dives deep into her experiences navigating the NICU after a traumatic early birth, balancing her high-powered job in the fashion industry, and becoming an advocate for better parental support and leave policies.
Key Topics Covered:

NICU Challenges: Hear Stephanie’s emotional recount of her son’s premature birth and 87-day NICU stay, shedding light on the financial and emotional toll it took.
Balancing Work and Motherhood: Discover how Stephanie manages a demanding career while prioritizing family, thanks to ruthless calendar management and a supportive team.
Advocacy and Empathy: Learn about Stephanie’s advocacy work with Chamber of Mothers and her mission to improve parental leave and support for families in crisis.
Unexpected Joys of Parenting: Despite the challenges, Stephanie shares the profound joy and fulfillment that motherhood has brought into her life.
Practical Advice for Parents: From time management tips to embracing the positive moments, Stephanie’s advice is relatable and inspiring for parents at any stage.

Keywords: NICU, career and motherhood balance, parental leave advocacy, high-powered working mom, traumatic birth story, NICU journey, working mom tips, balancing work and family, parental support, premature birth, parenting challenges, motherhood joy, empathy in leadership.
Helpful resources:
Chamber of Mothers
RAISEfashion
Helpful Instagram page for NICU parents @dearnicumama

Support the show

Website: https://www.doyouwantthetruthpod.com

Connect with Sam:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/samanthastrom

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@samanthastorms

Connect with Zara:

Zara Hanawalt https://www.linkedin.com/in/zara-hanawalt/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@zarahanawalt

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zarahanawalt/

From Corporate to Chaos: Rachel Gibbs on Parenting, Mental Health, and Finding Joy with @rachonlife Oct 16, 2024

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In this episode, we chat with Rachel Gibbs, a former corporate marketing professional who left the 9-to-5 to become a stay-at-home mom and content creator. Rachel opens up about her life with two young kids, navigating mental health, and embracing the ups and downs of motherhood. From dealing with gender disappointment to managing OCD and bipolar disorder, Rachel’s journey is full of lessons, laughter, and real talk.
We explore the joys and challenges of parenting, breaking down the stigma of being a stay-at-home mom, and the reality of juggling a full house with mental health struggles. Whether you’re a parent, thinking about becoming one, or just curious about what it’s really like behind the scenes, Rachel’s insights are as comforting as they are eye-opening.
Highlights:

Rachel’s journey from a high-powered marketing career to stay-at-home mom life.
Honest talk on navigating mental health and the daily grind of parenting.
How Rachel found joy in unexpected places while balancing family and personal challenges.
Dealing with societal pressures and judgment as a stay-at-home mom.
Building a supportive community and why trusting your gut is the best parenting advice.

Connect with Rachel:
@rachonlife

Keywords: Parenting podcast, stay-at-home mom journey, motherhood challenges, mental health and motherhood, OCD, parenting, Rachel Gibbs, mom life, work-life balance, parenting advice, stay-at-home mom tips, SAHM

Support the show

Website: https://www.doyouwantthetruthpod.com

Connect with Sam:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/samanthastrom

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@samanthastorms

Connect with Zara:

Zara Hanawalt https://www.linkedin.com/in/zara-hanawalt/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@zarahanawalt

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zarahanawalt/

From Fertility Struggles to Pandemic Parenting: Michelle’s Powerful Journey of Resilience Oct 10, 2024

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In this must-listen episode, we sit down with Michelle, a mom whose journey to parenthood is nothing short of extraordinary. From battling unexpected fertility challenges, including the discovery of a tumor, to navigating a high-risk pregnancy during the pandemic, Michelle's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of community. 🌟
Michelle opens up about her journey from the early days of trying to conceive, discovering a tumor on her ovary, and facing the scary reality of an uncertain pregnancy. She shares candidly about her emotional rollercoaster, from the fear of losing her baby to the unexpected joy of becoming closer with her family and mom friends during isolation.
Whether you’re a mom, trying to conceive, or just looking for an inspiring story of hope and resilience, this episode will touch your heart and remind you that you are not alone on this journey. Michelle also shares the number one piece of advice she wishes she’d known as a new mom, making this episode a must for anyone navigating the ups and downs of parenthood. 👶🍼
Why You Should Listen: This episode is packed with real-life insights, heartfelt moments, and powerful advice that every parent, or parent-to-be, can relate to. Whether you’re struggling with fertility issues, going through a difficult pregnancy, or just need a reminder that you’re doing an amazing job, Michelle’s story will inspire you. 🎙️✨
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Michelle’s unexpected fertility journey: discovering a tumor and facing fears of infertility.
How Michelle navigated a high-risk pregnancy during the pandemic and what it taught her.
The impact of COVID-19 on Michelle’s pregnancy and how it changed her perspective on parenting.
The importance of building a supportive mom community and how mom friends can become your lifeline.
Michelle’s heartfelt advice for new parents and how to navigate the emotional challenges of early parenthood.
Keywords: Fertility struggles, high-risk pregnancy, parenting during the pandemic, motherhood advice, mom community, mom friends, fertility journey, new parent tips, resilience in motherhood, overcoming infertility, Cervical Cerclage

Support the show

Website: https://www.doyouwantthetruthpod.com

Connect with Sam:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/samanthastrom

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@samanthastorms

Connect with Zara:

Zara Hanawalt https://www.linkedin.com/in/zara-hanawalt/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@zarahanawalt

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zarahanawalt/

Redefining Marriage and Fatherhood with Josh Fisher Oct 02, 2024

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In this candid and powerful episode, we sit down with Josh Fisher (@jfisher62 and @marriageishappening) to explore the raw realities of marriage, parenthood, and the unexpected challenges that come with trying to build an equitable partnership. Josh opens up about his journey with his wife Jamie—known to many as @LotsOfJamie on TikTok—and the hard truths they discovered about inequality in their relationship.
From navigating the patriarchal norms embedded in marriage to confronting the real cost of prioritizing work over family, Josh shares his personal awakening and how it reshaped his approach to being a husband and father.
Connect with Josh:
https://www.instagram.com/marriageishappening/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JaimeandJosh
Highlights from this Episode:
💔 The Moment It All Fell Apart: Josh talks about the shocking conversation that changed everything and how hearing, "If we got divorced, I'd be relieved," became the wake-up call he never expected.
👶 The Unexpected Joys of Parenthood: Josh reflects on the chaotic early years of becoming parents during a recession, a cross-country move, and living in a basement. Find out why, despite the struggles, he’d do it all over again.
💡 From Lip Service to Real Change: Discover how Josh transformed from a "Type A perfectionist" who wanted to "fix it all" to a partner who shows up in the messy middle of life, embracing vulnerability and imperfect action.
🛑 Why Men Struggle with Equality in Relationships: Josh dives into the societal norms that kept him blind to inequality and why many men are stuck in outdated roles without even realizing it.
📝 Advice for New Dads and Husbands: Josh shares the one piece of advice he’d give to any father or husband trying to navigate the complexities of modern relationships.
Why You Should Listen:
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the expectations of marriage and parenthood, or questioned how to create a more equitable partnership, this episode is for you. Josh’s story is a raw and honest look at the struggles we all face behind closed doors, and the small shifts that can lead to big changes. Whether you’re a parent, partner, or just curious about what it takes to make a relationship work in today’s world, you won’t want to miss this conversation.
Tune in now for a refreshing take on marriage and parenthood that you didn’t know you needed.
Keywords
inequity, patriarchy, marriage, parenting, community, communication, accountability, empathy, shared responsibilities

Support the show

Website: https://www.doyouwantthetruthpod.com

Connect with Sam:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/samanthastrom

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@samanthastorms

Connect with Zara:

Zara Hanawalt https://www.linkedin.com/in/zara-hanawalt/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@zarahanawalt

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zarahanawalt/

The Messy Middle: Navigating the Challenges of Parenting, Partnership and the Patriarchy with Jamie Fisher Sep 26, 2024

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In this episode, we sit down with Jamie Fisher (@lotsofjamie) and dive deep into the unfiltered realities of marriage, motherhood, and mental health. Jamie and her partner, Josh (@jfisher), have built a following on TikTok by sharing the raw, honest moments of their relationship, from the challenges of co-parenting to navigating the complexities of their own partnership. Together, they open up about their journey through the messy middle of parenting, marriage, and everything in between.
Why You Should Listen:
If you’re a parent struggling to find balance in your marriage or feeling overwhelmed by the demands of motherhood, this episode will resonate deeply. Jamie and Josh’s unfiltered conversation is a refreshing reminder that you’re not alone, and that it’s okay to embrace the imperfections of parenting and partnership.
What We Discuss:

The Unexpected Joy of Motherhood: Jamie’s journey from vowing “never again” after a traumatic first birth to embracing the chaos and joy of raising four kids with Josh.
Marriage in the Trenches: Jamie and Josh share how they manage the ups and downs of their relationship, including the challenges of working together while raising a family.
Postpartum Struggles and Mental Health: Jamie’s candid account of her battle with severe postpartum depression and anxiety, and how it impacted their family dynamics.
Setting Boundaries in Marriage and Parenting: How establishing boundaries helped Jamie regain control of her life and improved their relationship.
The Taboo of Mom Rage: Jamie discusses the often-hidden feelings of anger and frustration in motherhood, and why it’s important to bring these emotions into the light.

Key Takeaways:

Real Talk on Parenting and Partnership: Jamie and Josh’s openness reveals the realities of maintaining a marriage while navigating parenthood.
Mental Health Matters: Jamie’s journey underscores the importance of acknowledging and addressing mental health challenges in motherhood.
Surviving Parenthood Without a Village: Insight into how Jamie and Josh are managing without the traditional support systems that many parents rely on.

Connect with Jaime:
Youtube @jaimeandjosh
TikTok @lotsofjaime

keywords
Motherhood, Parenting, Marriage, Postpartum Depression, Mental Health in Motherhood, Jamie Fisher, Josh Fisher, Real Talk on Marriage, Parenting Challenges, Raising Kids, Marriage Advice, Parenting without a Village, Mom Rage, Boundaries in Motherhood, Couple Goals, TikTok Parenting.

Support the show

Website: https://www.doyouwantthetruthpod.com

Connect with Sam:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/samanthastrom

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@samanthastorms

Connect with Zara:

Zara Hanawalt https://www.linkedin.com/in/zara-hanawalt/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@zarahanawalt

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zarahanawalt/