No One Told Us

In this engaging dialogue, parenting content creator Chelsea Anderson shares her journey from babysitting to becoming a trusted voice for parents. She discusses the power of playful parenting to ease tough moments, like tantrums and transitions. Chelsea highlights fun strategies for bedtime routines, sibling dynamics, and empowering toddlers through playful engagement. With humor and insight, she offers practical hacks for managing behaviors and discusses her upcoming book on babysitting. A delightful mix of humor and wisdom for any parent!

Episode 96: How Not To Hate Your Husband After Kids with Jancee Dunn In this episode, Rachael sits down with journalist and author Jancee Dunn to talk about what really happens to relationships after kids enter the picture. Based on insights from her book How Not To Hate Your Husband After Kids, Jancee shares her own story of how motherhood rocked her marriage and the hard conversations, therapy, and practical shifts that helped her and her partner reconnect. Together, they dig into the messy, emotional realities of postpartum partnership: the resentment, the invisible labor, the awkwardness around intimacy, and how to stop keeping score. With humor and honesty, Jancee offers validation and tools for couples who are in the thick of it and ready to find their way back to each other. Inside this episode: Why resentment builds and how to talk about it The “mental load” and how it disproportionately affects moms Understanding labor inequity and how to rebalance What maternal gatekeeping is and why it matters The importance of open conversations about intimacy How time management and self-perception impact connection Tools for better communication (I statements, emotion labeling, paraphrasing) Why therapy isn’t just for couples in crisis Simple exercises to strengthen your relationship Letting go of social media perfection and sharing real experiences And so much more! Mentioned in this episode: How Not To Hate Your Husband After Kids by Jancee Dunn Follow Jancee on Instagram: @janceedunn If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 95: Choosing Sobriety: A Real Talk on Alcohol, Motherhood & Identity with Meg Fee In this episode, Rachael sits down with Meg Fee, creator of the podcast More Than Sobriety, to talk about the complex, non-linear path to sobriety and how it intersects with motherhood. Meg shares her deeply personal story of questioning her relationship with alcohol, navigating social situations sober, and challenging cultural norms like "mommy wine culture." Together, they dive into the emotional realities of sobriety, the power of community, and why you don’t need to hit rock bottom to choose a different path. This honest and empowering conversation offers support and perspective to anyone who’s sober curious or simply reevaluating their relationship with alcohol. Inside this episode: Meg’s journey to sobriety and why it’s never a straight line Rachael’s realizations about the role of alcohol in her life as a mom  The shift in perspective that motherhood can bring Understanding "mommy wine culture" and its impact Why sobriety is about more than just abstaining How to navigate social situations and friendships without drinking The role of cannabis and other alternatives in sober living Breaking the stigma around addiction and alcohol use disorder Why communication with friends and support systems are essential How mocktails and non-alcoholic options are changing the game The importance of community and listening to your own intuition And so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Follow Meg on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/megfee/?hl=en Listen to her podcast: More Than Sobriety If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 94: Parenting a Child with Disabilities with Casey Mouton In this episode, Rachael sits down with therapist and mom Casey Mouton to talk about the emotional and complex journey of parenting a child with disabilities. Casey opens up about her son’s diagnosis after a stroke at 10 months old, how it impacted her family, and the ways her personal experience shaped her work in maternal mental health. This conversation is a deeply honest look at what it means to face uncertainty, advocate fiercely, and still find moments of joy along the way. Inside this episode: How Casey’s postpartum experience shifted her career to focus on maternal mental health The story of her son’s stroke and diagnosis with cerebral palsy What grief looks like when you're parenting through it How parenting a child with disabilities can strain relationships and what helps The healing power of support groups and community Tips for advocating in school settings and building inclusive environments Why finding joy amidst challenges isn’t just possible…it’s necessary Empowering kids to understand their potential and build confidence The importance of empathy and understanding from the outside world And so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Mavida Health: Collaborative care for maternal mental health Follow Casey on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mavidahealth/?hl=en  If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 93: Navigating the Grandparent-Parent Relationship: Boundaries, Expectations & Building Connection with Deedee Moore In this episode, Rachael sits down with Deedee Moore, creator of resources for modern grandparents, to talk about the often-unspoken complexities of grandparenting in today’s world. Together, they unpack everything from holiday overwhelm to unsolicited advice and the emotional tightrope we walk as parents trying to set boundaries without creating conflict. Whether you're feeling tension around gifts, unsure how to communicate with in-laws, or just trying to figure out how to create a more supportive village, this conversation is full of practical insights and thoughtful reminders that we’re all learning as we go. Inside this episode: Why grandparenting can feel fulfilling and challenging for everyone involved How to set boundaries around gifts, advice, and time without guilt Why communication should start before the baby even arrives Navigating holiday expectations and learning to accept disappointment Why building relationships (not giving stuff) matters most Are  modern grandparents really more busy, working, or caregiving in other ways? Tips for finding the right tone and timing for hard conversations How sharing your parenting resources with grandparents can reduce confusion Simple ideas to foster meaningful bonds between grandparents and grandchildren And so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Free resource: How To Talk So Grandparents Will Listen Follow Deedee on Instagram: @morethangrand New Grandparent Essentials More Than Grand website If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 92: Celebrating Queer Families & Normalizing Representation with Jaimie from the Queer Family Podcast In this episode Rachael welcomes Jaimie, the creator of the Queer Family Podcast, for a vibrant and heartfelt conversation about what it really means to parent within the LGBTQIA+ community. From being both a bio and non-bio mom to navigating public perception and household dynamics, Jaimie brings her signature humor and honesty to this vital conversation about visibility, inclusivity, and the beautiful messiness of parenthood. Whether you're part of a queer family or simply want to raise your children in a more inclusive world, this episode offers perspective, laughter, and practical tips for celebrating every kind of family. Inside this episode: The unique joys and challenges queer families face How to bond with your child as a non-bio parent The power of humor in parenting and tackling tough topics Why curiosity in kids about family structures should be welcomed, not feared How household responsibilities can be shared based on strengths—not stereotypes Why representation for LGBTQIA+ families matters deeply The role of inclusive books in early childhood Normalizing queer family dynamics in everyday life Postpartum reflections from the non-birthing parent The beauty and complexity of queer love, parenting, and visibility Plus SO much more! Mentioned in this episode: Follow Jaimie on Instagram: @thequeerfamilypodcast Listen to The Queer Family Podcast wherever you get your podcasts! Ourshelves Book Subscription  If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 91: The Potty Training Journey: Readiness, Regression & Releasing the Pressure with Jess from Nurtured First In this episode, Rachael welcomes back psychotherapist Jess Vanderwier from Nurtured First to talk all things potty training, because no one told us how complex (and emotional) it can really be! From readiness signs to regressions and nighttime dryness, Jess brings her compassionate, shame-free approach to one of the most talked-about parenting transitions. Together, they dive into all of your most-asked questions about potty “training” including how to tune into your child’s cues and what to do when things don’t go as planned. Whether you’re just starting out, hitting a rough patch, or questioning everything you thought you knew, this episode is for you. Inside this episode: Why there's no “right” age to start potty training How to spot signs of readiness (hint: curiosity matters more than compliance) The danger of pressure and how it can lead to power struggles What to do when accidents (or regressions) happen The emotional side of potty training and how to stay curious, not reactive Differences between daytime and nighttime dryness Why three-day methods don’t work for every child How shame-free potty learning fosters independence and confidence Ways to create positive associations and model behavior Why taking a break might be the best thing you can do Plus so much more!  Mentioned in this episode: Follow Jess on Instagram: @nurturedfirst Jess’s parenting podcast Robot Unicorn If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 90: Rebuilding After Divorce: Communication, Co-Parenting & Finding Yourself Again with Betsy Kelly In this episode, Rachael sits down with SLP turned Divorce Doula and Podcast host, Betsy Kelly to talk about navigating the often isolating and emotional journey of divorce. Betsy shares her deeply personal story of choosing herself, learning to co-parent with clarity and compassion, and the power of creating community through storytelling. Together, they explore what it really means to rebuild after a marriage ends—and why no one should have to do it alone. Inside this episode: Betsy’s story of feeling alone when she made the decision to divorce The surprising link between communication, connection, and healing Tips for talking to kids about divorce in age-appropriate ways Why approaching co-parenting like a business helps reduce conflict The emotional toll of bad-mouthing an ex—and why it harms kids The importance of therapy, friendships and finding a trusted confidant Why no two divorce journeys look the same Rebuilding identity and rediscovering self-worth, dating and more post-divorce How Betsy’s podcast Divorce Stories is helping others feel less alone & so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Betsy on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@divorcedoulabetsy?_t=ZP-8vW3o1l0qlS&_r=1  Divorce Stories Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/divorce-stories/id1808073006  A special thank you to our listeners on Betsy’s website here- https://www.betsykellycoaching.com/heysleepybaby  If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 89: Debunking Vaccine Myths: Making Choices with Evidence and Compassion with Dr. Elisabeth Marnik In this episode, Rachael sits down with scientist, mom, and writer Dr. Liz Marnik to talk about one of the most emotionally charged topics in modern parenting: vaccines. Together, they explore how fear, misinformation, and anxiety shape parental decision-making—and why accessible, compassionate science communication matters more than ever. Inside this episode: Dr. Marnik’s personal  journey from vaccine hesitancy to scientific advocacy How anxiety and fear influence parents’ vaccine decision-making What’s really in vaccines—and why it’s safe Debunking myths: autism, immune overload, and the "too many too soon" idea Why measles is more dangerous than most people realize Understanding herd immunity and who it protects Why misinformation spreads faster than facts—and how to pause before sharing How to talk to vaccine-hesitant loved ones with curiosity, not judgment & so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Liz on Instagram: @ScienceWhizLiz & @ThoseNerdyGirls Substack: https://fromthescienceclass.substack.com/  Vaccine schedule differences Too many vaccines  More on Liz here: The reason my mom didn't vaccinate Science Saved Me Lessons From a Vaccinated Daughter of a Vaccine Hesitant Mother Autism and vaccines  Substack: Comprehensive Review of MMR Resources & Info Substack: Vaccines are not associated with autism Measles Substack: Measles is NEVER EVER beneficial Instagram FAQs How can I protect myself from measles? If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Rachael sits down with therapist, author, and mom Amanda E. White to unpack the often unspoken truths about motherhood—ambivalence, choice, and the radical permission to not love every moment. Together, they talk about what it means to question the path of parenthood, to feel unsure, and to still be a good enough parent. This is a deep-dive into choosing your own way in a culture obsessed with “doing it right.” Inside this episode: What it means to be a “fence sitter” about motherhood How social media shapes unrealistic expectations about parenting The grief of unlived lives and letting go of former selves Navigating differing desires with your partner about family size The emotional toll of infertility and decision-making How to know if you’re done having kids—or not Why desire, not fear or pressure, should guide family planning decisions Permission to change your mind—and the freedom in uncertainty &  so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Amanda’s website: therapyforwomencenter.com  Substack: Fence Sitter Podcast: Nuance Needed   If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Instagram | Tiktok |  Website  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices