Finding Joy in the Messy Middle of Motherhood

In this unfiltered Brown Ambition mama check-in, Mandi sits down with fellow podcasters and moms Jessica Norwood and Rana Campbell for an honest conversation about motherhood, depression, grief, survival mode, and rediscovering joy amidst the chaos.

Mandi opens up about her battle with depression and what it means to mother while navigating mental health challenges. Rana shares her journey through grief and juggling caregiving for both her children and her ailing mother. Jessica reflects on living with chronic pain, parenting through fatigue, and the gratitude that comes with having support.

Together, the trio talk about the silent struggles moms face—postpartum transitions, work-from-home pressures, and the impossible balance between self-care and survival—and how they’re each reclaiming small pockets of joy in their everyday lives.

💡 You’ll Learn

• Mandi opens up about living with depression and the complexity of being a mom in survival mode.
  -Rana on grief, caregiving, and trying to shield her kids from chaos.
  -Jessica shares how chronic pain impacts her motherhood and the value of having a supportive partner.
  -The invisible weight of motherhood—mental load, burnout, and the myth of “having it all.”
  -The guilt of “just surviving”—and redefining what thriving really means.
  - Finding joy in small ways: cooking, gardening, dancing, and laughter..                                           -The need for community, support, and sisterhood among mothers.

🧠 Key Takeaways

• Depression is a liar: It tells you you’re alone, unworthy, or toxic—but speaking it aloud breaks its power.
• Moms need mothering too: Community care and physical presence matter as much as emotional support.
• Joy can be small and deliberate: A home-cooked meal, a dance break, or a solo coffee can change your day.
• Workplace empathy is survival: Corporate policies must evolve to support mothers’ well-being.
• Healing requires honesty: Naming what hurts opens space for connection, laughter, and growth.

 Episode Challenge

Take one small action this week that’s just for you—no kids, no chores, no guilt.
Cook, dance, nap, or call a friend who gets it. Because joy counts, even in the messy middle.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.