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

Website: https://www.doyouwantthetruthpod.com

Connect with Paige:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/sheisapaigeturner/

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

Connect with Sam:

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

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

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

Website: https://www.doyouwantthetruthpod.com

Connect with Paige:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/sheisapaigeturner/

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

Connect with Sam:

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

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

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

Website: https://www.doyouwantthetruthpod.com

Connect with Paige:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/sheisapaigeturner/

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

Connect with Sam:

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

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