No One Told Us

In this episode, Rachael sits down with literacy expert and beloved educator Beth Gaskill, known by her community as Miss Beth, to talk all about how children learn to read. From the science of reading (yep, it’s a science!) to why fun is essential in the process, this episode is packed with practical strategies for parents who want to support their kids' literacy journeys. They also chat about what it means to "redshirt" kindergarten, how to foster early literacy skills at home, and how to talk to your kids after school in a way that builds connection (not frustration). Plus, Rachael shares her own perspective as a former public school teacher and current parent navigating her child’s first year in the school system. Inside this episode: What the science of reading actually means The Orton-Gillingham approach and multisensory literacy Why reading should be fun (and how to make it that way) How to support your child's learning style Understanding Kindergarten "redshirting" What to say when your child won’t tell you about their day Rachael’s reflections from 10+ years teaching reading Why advocacy matters and how to be your child’s best advocate And so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Big City Readers On-Demand Courses for babies, toddlers, and kids Beth’s podcast: Play on Words Podcast: Sold a Story Follow Miss Beth: @bigcityreaders ✨ 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

Should parents play with their children? Or should children only play independently? Independent Play is such a polarizing topic! That’s why this week, Rachael and Lizzie Assa, founder of the Workspace for Children, talk all about the importance of play for children and how parents can foster the desire for a healthy balance between playing with children and encouraging independent play. Here’s what they discuss inside this helpful episode: the benefits of independent play, starting from birth! HOW to begin fostering independent play skills the latest debate on social media: Should we play with our kids or not!? practical strategies for parents to create a conducive environment for play independent play is not about specific toys or aesthetics, but about understanding and connecting with each child's unique personality and interests the fear and guilt that parents can feel when their children are playing independently how parents can reduce “I’m bored!” pushback and avoid burnout Tips for using independent play to have a “quiet time” once your child stops napping And so much more! Lizzie is the founder of The Workspace for Children, and has become a go-to strategist for parents seeking guidance in fostering independent play for their children. With a Master’s in early childhood education and a passion for simplicity and consistency in play, she offers practical solutions to avoid burnout and promote healthy development. Lizzie's insights have been featured on The Good Inside Podcast, Parent's Magazine, NY Times Parenting, Time, and The Wall Street Journal. She is set to release her forthcoming book, "But I'm Bored!": The Complete Guide to Independent Play for Kids Ages 1-8, which promises to revolutionize the way parents approach their children's playtime. Mentioned in this episode: Lizzie’s Audio Course and Companion Workbook: ⁠https://twfc.kartra.com/page/sales⁠ Lizzie’s Instagram: ⁠@theworkspaceforchildren⁠ Lizzie’s website: ⁠https://www.workspaceforchildren.com/⁠ 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

This week we're speaking with with Elise Disher, M. Ed all about choosing the right daycare and how to transition your child in as seamlessly as possible. Childcare is such an important topic for parents and we know it can be fraught with worry! Here's what Rachael and Elise discuss inside the episode: Why building relationships and attachment with staff is crucial during the transition into daycare or preschool The benefits of a tailored and gradual approach to separation vs. "drop and go" How parents can advocate for more involvement in the early learning environment and create familiarity for their child Do children actually need daycare or preschool for socialization or social skills development in the first three years? Quality early learning environments- what should they be prioritizing and what should parents look for and ask about when touring? What parents should be focusing on during challenging behaviors and much more! Elise's work is all about promoting relationship-focused, attachment-based practices in early childhood settings. She consults with educators to help them implement these approaches and facilitate the Circle of Security program for both educators and families. She also supports families through key transitions into early childhood settings and provides guidance on navigating behavioral challenges. She is a mom to two little ones, aged 5 and 1, and brings over 18 years of experience working in the early childhood profession as an educator, teacher, director, and consultant. She holds a Master of Education and is a certified Circle of Security facilitator as well as a holistic sleep and wellbeing coach. Her goal is to help build strong, secure connections between children and the adults in their lives, offering the support needed to thrive through the many stages of early childhood. Mentioned in this episode: Elise's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elisedisher.ed/?hl=en Elise’s Courses: Supporting and advocating for a quality orientation support package  Masterclass - The brain behind behaviour- Understanding and responding to emotions and behaviours effectively  Circle of Security Parent Interest Form Website umeplay.com.au Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. ✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨ If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 100: Behind the Mic (and the Madness): A Candid Q&A with Rachael & Marley In this very special 100th episode of No One Told Us, Rachael is joined by her most frequent (and most requested) guest, her husband, Marley —for an unfiltered, hilarious, and heartfelt conversation about parenting, partnership, and what it really looks like behind the scenes. They answer listener-submitted questions about co-sleeping, division of labor, marital rough patches, and their decision to have a third child…all while laughing at their own mess and sharing what’s worked (and what definitely hasn’t). Together, they reflect on two years of podcasting, three kids, and how they’ve kept their connection strong (mostly) through the chaos. From the car clutter to the minivan love, and from toddler sleep to dad burnout, nothing is off-limits in this honest, relatable milestone episode. Inside this episode: Why they stopped at three kids and how they knew their family was complete How co-sleeping (with boundaries) worked for them The impact of COVID and postpartum depression on their marriage after baby #2 Why they don’t miss the newborn stage (and also kind of do!) Their very different views on asking for help and involving family Navigating burnout as a stay-at-home parent Pet peeves (yes, they go there) How they handle conflict, chores, and discipline as a team Their take on gentle parenting and when it gets hard Thoughts on intimacy, evenings alone, and rediscovering connection Tips for prepping kids for babysitters, weddings, and overnights away Mentioned in this episode: Episode 86: Reimagining Boyhood with Ruth Whippman Episode 5: How Your Relationship Changes After a Baby with Rachael & Marley Episode 44: Q&A with Rachael and her husband, Marley 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. Marley is a LCMSW and current Stay at Home Dad (not a HSB employee!) Instagram | Tiktok |  Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode 99: Inside the Mother Brain: How Parenthood Rewires Us with Chelsea Conaboy In this episode, Rachael sits down with journalist and author Chelsea Conaboy to explore what really happens to the brain during pregnancy and postpartum. Drawing from her groundbreaking book Mother Brain, Chelsea unpacks the myth of maternal instinct and shares what neuroscience is revealing about the profound brain changes that take place when we become parents. Together, they dive into the emotional and psychological realities of new parenthood, the shifting identity of caregiving, and why understanding the science of the parental brain is a powerful step toward building more compassionate cultural narratives and systems that support families.  Inside this episode: The major neurological shifts that occur in pregnancy and postpartum Why “maternal instinct” is more myth than science How caregiving changes all parents’ brains, not just mothers The impact of identity shifts and anxiety in early parenthood How brain science supports better parental leave policies The role of sleep, stress, and societal pressure on new parents Why the transition to parenthood is a developmental stage Why understanding your brain helps you give yourself grace And so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Mother Brain by Chelsea Conaboy Follow Chelsea on Instagram: @chelseaconaboy Between Us Substack  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 98: Nutrition, Misinformation & Modern Motherhood with Dr. Jessica Nurick In this episode, Rachael sits down with nutrition scientist and registered dietitian Dr. Jessica Nurick to unpack the confusing world of nutrition, wellness, and parenting. From pregnancy food rules to the fear-based messaging around seed oils and formula, Dr. Nurick brings clarity and calm to a space often dominated by conflicting advice. Together, they explore how wellness culture can create unrealistic expectations for new parents, why fiber is your gut’s best friend, and how to build nutrient-dense meals without overthinking it. With humor, empathy, and a strong public health lens, Dr. Nurick reminds us that evidence-based information, not internet trends, is what supports real families. Inside this episode: The influence of Dr. Nurick’s personal story on her career in nutrition The harm of misinformation during pregnancy and postpartum The truth about seed oils and why they’re not the enemy Practical, realistic tips for feeding families The microbiome’s love language: fiber How wellness culture often fails (and pressures) new moms The rise of crunchy mom narratives and how to separate fact from fear How to identify credible nutrition sources The bigger picture: public health, food access, and social support And so much more! Mentioned in this episode: Follow Dr. Jessica Nurick on Instagram: @drjessicard Dr. Jess on substack: here Dr. Jess on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjessicaknurick?lang=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

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