The Parenthood and Relationship Podcast | Matrescence | Relationship after baby | Motherhood life (Markella Kaplani - Clinical-Counseling Psychologist | Parenthood & Relationship Coach | Matrescence Expert)
Explorez tous les épisodes de The Parenthood and Relationship Podcast | Matrescence | Relationship after baby | Motherhood life
| Date | Titre | Durée | |
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| 13 Apr 2025 | When Love Gets Lost in Translation: Navigating Mismatched Love Languages in Parenthood | Ep. 53 | 00:19:48 | |
You’re doing your best—making lunches, folding laundry, handling bedtime routines. Yet, something feels off. Your partner seems distant, and despite your efforts, the emotional connection is missing. In this episode of The Parenthood and Relationship Podcast, we delve into the complexities of love languages in the context of parenting. As responsibilities increase, couples often find themselves expressing love in ways that may not resonate with their partner. This mismatch can lead to feelings of being unappreciated and misunderstood. We explore why these mismatches occur, especially during the demanding phase of early parenthood. Factors like stress, fatigue, and changing personal needs can alter how we give and receive love. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for maintaining a strong emotional bond. This episode offers practical strategies to bridge the gap: - Recognizing and respecting each other’s love languages. - Implementing regular check-ins to stay emotionally connected. - Learning to express love in ways that resonate with your partner. By becoming more attuned to each other’s emotional needs, couples can foster a deeper connection, even amidst the chaos of parenting. To support this journey, I’ve created a free journaling prompt designed to help you reflect on your love language and better understand your partner’s. Sign up for my newsletter at markellakaplani.com/newsletter to receive this resource directly in your inbox. Remember, love languages can evolve, especially during significant life changes like becoming a parent. By staying curious and open, you can navigate these changes together, strengthening your relationship along the way.
-- 🎁 Want extra support? Download my free journaling prompt to discover your current love language at markellakaplani.com/newsletter -- Full Transcript HERE. -- Want to take our relationship to the next level? 👉 Subscribe for more parenting insights 👉 Grab my top Resources 👉 Get on my [FREE] Newsletter 👉 Join the Reconnect with Your Partner Challenge 📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach www.markellakaplani.com
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| 09 Mar 2025 | Why Parenthood Feels So Lonely (Even When You're Never Alone) | ReDiscovering You Series [⅔] | Ep. 48 | 00:25:08 | |
Have you ever felt lonely even with your partner sitting across from you or your child snuggled in your arms? Parenthood changes everything—including how connected you feel in your relationships. Many parents silently experience emotional disconnection, wondering why they feel distant from their partner or why friendships have faded. This episode of The Parenthood and Relationship Podcast dives deep into why parenthood can feel isolating, even in a full house. We uncover the hidden causes of parental loneliness, the subtle signs that emotional distance is creeping in, and how to reconnect without adding more to your already full plate. Whether your conversations have turned into logistical checklists, you miss deep connection with your partner, or you hesitate to reach out to old friends, this episode gives you simple, actionable ways to rebuild emotional intimacy. If you’ve been wondering, ‘Why do I feel so lonely as a parent?’ or ‘How can I reconnect with my partner?’, this episode is for you. Tune in, take a deep breath, and know that connection is possible again. Listen now! –- 🔔 Subscribe for more parenting insights 📩 Join my [FREE] newsletter for extra support 👉 Get the [FREE] Calm Parent, Calm Child Guide 📢 Share this with a parent who needs to hear it! --- Full Transcript HERE. — Want to take our relationship to the next level? 👉Here are my top Resources 👉 Link to my Newsletter 👉 Join the Reconnect with Your Partner Challenge 📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 12 Jan 2025 | Signs of Drifting Apart in a Relationship: 6-Step Framework to Bridge the Emotional Distance in Parenthood | Ep. 40 | 00:32:41 | |
Are you worried that your relationship is drifting apart after becoming parents? You’re not alone. Parenthood changes everything, including the way we connect with our partners. In this episode, I dive into the subtle yet powerful signs of emotional distance in relationships, especially for couples navigating the demands of parenthood. Using my 6-step framework, I’ll guide you through how to bridge the emotional gap, rekindle intimacy, and rebuild your connection with simple, intentional actions. We’ll discuss common causes of disconnection, such as the energy drain of parenting, identity shifts in matrescence and patrescence, and unmet expectations that silently grow into resentment. You’ll also learn how to spot early warning signs like reduced communication, a lack of physical affection, and lingering conflicts that never seem to resolve. I’ll share real-life examples and practical tools you can start using today, including journaling prompts to help you reflect on what truly matters in your relationship. Whether you’re dealing with small signs of disconnection or feel like you’re at a breaking point, this episode will give you actionable steps to reignite the closeness you once had. This is perfect for parents who want to strengthen their marriage, create a healthier family dynamic, and ensure their kids grow up in a loving and connected environment. If you’re ready to take the next step, I also introduce my Reconnect with Your Partner Challenge, designed for busy parents who want to reignite their relationship in just seven days. Don’t let emotional distance grow into something bigger—take action today. Subscribe for more content on parenthood, relationships, and creating a life where you can thrive as a couple and a family. Let’s navigate the challenges of parenthood together! --- Full Transcript HERE. — Want to take our relationship to the next level? 👉Here are my top Resources 👉 Link to my Newsletter 👉 Join the Reconnect with Your Partner Challenge 📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 03 Nov 2024 | Worried About Your Wife's Fatigue? 4 Causes of Mom Burnout & Practical Ways to Support Her | Episode 30 | 00:47:47 | |
Curious about why your partner is so exhausted despite the help you offer? This episode delves into the unseen layers of mom fatigue and provides compassionate strategies to help you support her better whilst acknowledging the tough situation you, too, are in. We’ll explore the emotional and mental loads that weigh heavily on mothers, and how you, as a partner, can make a meaningful difference in her daily life. This episode is packed with insights to help you bridge the gap in understanding, improve communication, and bring renewed connection to your relationship. What You’ll Discover:
Discover small, powerful actions that can make a huge difference in how she feels — and in the strength of your partnership. Listen in for actionable insights and start building a more connected, resilient relationship. --- Reconnect With Her CHALLENGE --- Episode 1 on Matrescence (Apple player) Episode on Patrescence (Apple player) --- Full Transcript HERE. --- 📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 08 Sep 2024 | Fostering Compassionate Family Culture to Promote Emotional Wellbeing | Cultivating Compassion in Parenthood Series (#5) | Episode 22 | 00:22:16 | |
Join me in this episode as we discuss how we can establish healthy family dynamics based on sturdy and explicit family values. Learn how to create a positive family environment that nurtures emotional wellbeing and strengthens your parent-child connection. Discover how parenting with compassion can impact your family culture and lead to healthier relationships. What we’ll cover:
So tune in to Episode 22 id you’d like a guide to raising a happy, emotionally healthy family while overcoming the common struggles of modern parenting. --- Journaling Exercise
--- Related Resources and Links *Love Language Quiz: https://5lovelanguages.com/quizzes/love-language > FREE Self-Connect Calendar > FREE Guide: Calm Parent Calm Child > (Re)Discover Your Identity in Motherhood [waitlist] > Get in touch with me (Instagram; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) > Leave a Podcast Review HERE 😀 > FREE Motherhood Coaching Session: Send an e-mail to info@markellakaplani.com with the subject line “Podcast Guesting” > Join our community on Facebook: Parenthood and Relationship Group --- Find the full transcript HERE. 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! 📲 Follow me on Instagram @markella.kaplani for more insights and updates. --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 22 Dec 2024 | The 4 Types of Connection & Ways to Rekindle the Romance with Dr. Adam Dorsay | Ep. 37 | 01:11:14 | |
In this insightful episode, we dive into the art of cultivating connection with Dr. Adam Dorsay, licensed psychologist, executive coach, and author of Super Psyched. This conversation is packed with strategies for strengthening relationships, especially for couples navigating the challenges of parenting. Dr. Dorsay shares actionable advice on reconnecting with your partner and the importance of emotional connection in building a thriving relationship. As we explore the shifts that occur in family life, Dr. Dorsay emphasizes how couples can maintain intimacy in marriage and balance the demands of parenthood and relationship. Listeners will gain practical tools for improving family dynamics and creating lasting bonds. Whether you are a parent looking to rekindle romance or simply seeking deeper connections, this episode delivers heartfelt and practical solutions. Dr. Dorsay delves into the significance of relationship advice for parents and the power of small actions in improving family communication. He provides tangible examples of how partners can support each other while also fostering strong bonds with their children. Tune in for extremely effective, yet simple techniques for navigating relationship changes and sustaining strong family bonds. One of the highlights of this discussion is maintaining intimacy after kids. Dr. Dorsay introduces creative approaches to keep passion alive, helping couples reconnect and enjoy a fulfilling relationship. These strategies align beautifully with his insights on enhancing marital satisfaction and ensuring that couples feel united even amidst the chaos of family life. If you’re ready to explore the keys to cultivating connection and living with greater vitality, this episode is for you! Ways to Connect with Dr. Adam Dorsay:
Don’t miss this powerful conversation on love, connection, and family! --- Full Transcript HERE. — Want to take our relationship to the next level? 👉Here are my top Resources 📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach www.markellakaplani.com
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| 30 Jun 2024 | Top 1 Reason for Fighting After Baby (Understanding the Deeper Roots of Arguments with Partner) | Episode 12 | 00:28:44 | |
Ever felt sidelined by your partner after becoming parents? 🚸 Do they no longer ask what you need or appreciate what you do? 💔 Does love feel taken for granted? In this episode of the Parenthood and Relationship Podcast, we dive into why those little squabbles with your partner seem never-ending. 🗣️ Why taking out the trash becomes a major fight when the real issue is much deeper.
Tune in to learn: - The real reasons behind your arguments 🧠 - How to recognize underlying guilt and fears 💡 - Practical tips to improve communication 💬 - The importance of empathy and compassion ❤️ 🌟 Don't miss out! 📲 Follow me on Instagram @markella.kaplani for updates and more insights. 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! ⬇️ Download the Couples Communications Checklist (or leave me a review on Apple and get it for FREE) Find the full transcript HERE.
#Parenthood #RelationshipGoals #CouplesTherapy #Communication #ParentingTips #MentalHealth #Podcast #MarkellaKaplani #LoveAndParenthood #Empathy #SelfAwareness #HealingTogether ***Resources mentioned in the episode
Get your Checklist for Healthy Communication in Parenthood OR - leave me a REVIEW on Apple Podcasts, take a screenshot of the review, and e-mail me that screenshot at info@markellakaplani.com so that I can email it to you for free! - Go listen to the BLISSFULLY BOLD Podcast - host: Gavie Remaly - Go to markellakaplani.com/selfconnectcalendar so that you can get this gentle guide that will help you nurture your relationship with yourself every day with a tiny action that respects your busy schedule and your mental load!! - Journaling Prompt Questions Find them in fuchsia pink within the full transcript HERE. — Leave me a REVIEW on Apple Podcasts — Liking this? Please SHARE with a friend (or more!) and leave me a REVIEW on Apple Podcasts; I appreciate it more than I can express in words! --- LET'S TAKE OUR RELATIONSHIP TO THE NEXT LEVEL 😉 - Find me on Instagram: @markella.kaplani - Join our community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/parenthoodandrelationship/ - Visit my website for resources, quizzes, articles, and more: markellakaplani.com/ - E-mail me: info@markellakaplani.com — Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 13 Oct 2024 | Having an Identity Crisis as a Parent? 6 Strategies to Finding Yourself after Motherhood and Fatherhood to Maintain Your Marriage after Children | Matrescence | Patrescence | Episode 27 | 01:06:27 | |
Feeling lost in motherhood / fatherhood? You’re not alone. In this episode, we have a warm but honest conversation regarding the struggle to keep a sense of self while being the best parent we can be. Parenthood changes everything, but it doesn’t have to erase who we are. We’ll explore how to navigate the identity shift that comes with becoming a parent and provide 6 powerful insights on how to reclaim your sense of self. Join me so that we discuss the underlying reasons for our loss of identity in motherhood and fatherhood and how, even though you might think it only impacts you as an individual, it CAN erode both your marriage as well as your connection with your children. Here’s the truth: you don’t have to choose between being a good parent and being YOU. My 6 actionable strategies will help you reconnect with your identity and bring more balance and joy into your life. Today We Find Out:
This episode will leave you feeling empowered to rediscover yourself while embracing parenthood fully.
— Referenced Links
markellakaplani.com/selfconnectcalendar
markellakaplani.com/coupleschecklist (Send me a screenshot of your Apple review at info@markellakaplani.com and get it for FREE)
— DOWNLOAD THE FREE MINI VIDEO SERIES ON HOW MOTHERHOOD CHANGES US Find out why and how this happens in key areas of life, including your personality, your relationship, your work, and even your spirituality. Get it here for FREE: https://www.markellakaplani.com/videoseries --- Journaling Exercise Take some time to reflect on these questions to reconnect with yourself:
This exercise can help you start the journey of rediscovering yourself while embracing your role as a parent. —- Related Resources and Links > FREE Self-Connect Calendar > FREE Guide: Calm Parent Calm Child > (Re)Discover Your Identity in Motherhood [waitlist] > Get in touch with me (Instagram; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) > Leave a Podcast Review HERE 😀 > FREE Motherhood Coaching Session: Send an e-mail to info@markellakaplani.com with the subject line “Podcast Guesting” > Join our community on Facebook: Parenthood and Relationship Group --- Find the full transcript HERE. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1oRfx-ftekX7ex7T6Blyo1TkMfoUs87jYUz7N3Irkaio/edit?usp=sharing — 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! 📲 Follow me on Instagram @markella.kaplani for more insights and updates. --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist www.markellakaplani.com
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| 21 Apr 2024 | How does parenthood affect marriage: Are parenting challenges to blame for relationship issues? | Episode 2 | 00:24:06 | |
Do you ever wonder how relationships change after having kids? How does parenthood affect marriage?
In today’s episode, we discuss how to save your marriage from parenthood; at the very least we take the first step, which is to validate the disruption that comes with having children.
As much of a blessing and a joy as it is to have children, marriage after baby is also admittedly strained.
Parenting challenges and relationship issues are not irrelevant to one another; they go hand-in-hand.
But this is not an episode dedicated to figuring out who is the problem in the relationship or about relationship problems after having a baby or children; it’s the opposite.
Together, we explore the affect that becoming parents has on us as a couple, we normalize the dip in marital satisfaction, and we reframe the bleak statistics so that we can destroy dominant myths that contribute to relationships failing.
Through consideration, compassion, and reflection, we can come out of this even stronger than before.
Liking this? Please SHARE with a friend (or more!) and leave me a REVIEW on Apple Podcasts; I appreciate it more than I can express in words!
Read the episode Transcript HERE.
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LET'S TAKE OUR RELATIONSHIP TO THE NEXT LEVEL 😉 - Find me on Instagram: @markella.kaplani - Join our community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/parenthoodandrelationship/ - Take the Couple’s Quiz: Is Parenthood Making or Breaking Your Relationship? markellakaplani.com/couplesquiz - E-mail me: info@markellakaplani.com
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Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist | |||
| 15 Dec 2024 | 5 Steps to Reset Parental Burnout | Parenting Burnout Symptoms & Treatment | Ep. 36 | 00:36:16 | |
Parenting is one of the most fulfilling roles, but let’s face it—it’s also one of the most exhausting. If you’ve ever felt completely drained or like you’re barely keeping up, you might be experiencing parental burnout. And no, it doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you’ve been giving your all without taking time to refill your own cup. In this episode, we’re getting real about parenting burnout—what it looks like, how it sneaks up on us, and what you can do to reset. Whether you’re navigating new parent tiredness, the demands of being a working mom, or even the silent struggles of mom burnout / dad burnout, I’ve got you covered. We’ll explore: ✨ Parental burnout signs in everyday life. ✨ Why things like exhausted mother syndrome or feeling like a tired parent don’t mean you’re weak—it’s a sign to pause. ✨ How to reset parental burnout symptoms create a realistic self-care routine for moms (and dads) to reset and reconnect. I’ll walk you through practical tips for how to recover from parental burnout, including redefining your expectations, building better boundaries, and finding small, doable ways to bring joy back into your day. Parenting doesn’t come with an instruction manual, but burnout happens when we pour from an empty cup for too long. This episode is your permission slip to hit reset—not just for your family, but for YOU. 🎧 Tune in now to learn how to navigate parenting burnout stages, avoid future overwhelm, and start showing up for yourself as much as you do for everyone else. Because you’re not just a parent—you’re a person who deserves care, too. --- Full Transcript HERE. — Want to take our relationship to the next level? 👉Here are my top Resources 📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 14 Apr 2024 | Matrescence - What is an identity crisis and why did it hit me in motherhood? | Episode 1 | 00:18:15 | |
Welcome to the first episode of "The Parenthood & Relationship Podcast," where we discuss the profound transformation of parenthood and how this affects us as individuals and as a couple.
The topic of this episode centers on the concept of "Matrescence," a profound transition that resembles adolescence, where we, as mothers, undergo a significant identity shift.
We unpack the emotional and psychological change that accompanies our entry into parenthood, shedding light on the often unspoken challenges of parenthood such as struggling with the transition to motherhood and the identity crisis it often brings.
More specifically, we get into the topic of the "Canscade of Motherhood," which describes the extent to which motherhood affects all areas of life, with the ultimate aim of normalizing feelings of shame, loss, or mom guilt that come up alongside the joy, love, and gratitude we feel for our children.
By recognizing and embracing this cascade of changes, we can strengthen our relationships and foster a nurturing environment for both ourselves and our children.
Whether you're a mom who feels conflicted between utter joy and grief for your old self, or a partner eager to support and understand her, this episode provides essential insights into the joys and challenges of parenting.
Join me as we explore how to navigate these waters together, fostering a deeper connection with ourselves and our loved ones in the journey of parenthood.
See the episode transcript here
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LET'S TAKE OUR RELATIONSHIP TO THE NEXT LEVEL 😉 - Find me on Instagram: @markella.kaplani - Join our community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/parenthoodandrelationship/ - Watch the FREE Mini Video Series on Matrescence: markellakaplani.com/videoseries - E-mail me: info@markellakaplani.com
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Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist
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| 05 May 2024 | Patrescence - How a man changes when he becomes a father & how this affects his relationship | Episode 4 | 00:29:26 | |
Becoming a father is a process, and this has a name: patrescence. Men, just like women, go through a massive transformation in their identity as they step into fatherhood. Because this is not acknowledged and due to the fact that we dismiss the array of emotions that men have, there is a lot that is kept under the surface, which, however, negatively impacts the experience that fathers have. This, in turn, creates tension and misunderstandings within the couple, as many things begin to be based on assumptions rather than genuine, healthy communication. In this episode we talk about how fathers are primed to act in parenthood so that dads can gain a better understanding of themselves and their partners can understand where they are coming from, thus opening up the door to more effective communication and a deeper connection, leading to more a more fulfilled personal and family life.
Find the full episode transcript HERE (Episode 4).
Liking this? Please SHARE with a friend (or more!) and leave me a REVIEW on Apple Podcasts; I appreciate it more than I can express in words!
--- LET'S TAKE OUR RELATIONSHIP TO THE NEXT LEVEL 😉 - Find me on Instagram: @markella.kaplani www.markellakaplani.com- Join our community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/parenthoodandrelationship/ - Visit my website for resources, quizzes, articles, and more: www.markellakaplani.com - E-mail me: info@markellakaplani.com
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Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist
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| 17 Nov 2024 | Feeling Left Out as a Dad? 4 Steps to Reconnect for a Happy Marriage after Baby | Fatherhood | Ep. 32 | 00:37:35 | |
Parenthood changes everything, doesn’t it? Suddenly, life revolves around the baby, and for many dads, it can feel like they’ve been pushed into the background. If you’ve ever felt sidelined, like the affection and attention you once shared with your partner has shifted entirely to the kids, this episode is for you. And moms, while this episode speaks directly to dads, it offers insights that benefit you just as much. Many women start to feel as though their husband is jealous of the baby or the kids but the truth lies elsewhere. By understanding what your partner might be feeling, you’ll discover ways to navigate these challenges together with empathy. Moms often feel overwhelmed and under-supported, and this episode will help you see how to bridge the gap, foster empathy, and reconnect as a team—without adding extra pressure to your already full plate. 👉 Today, we uncover: 💔 Why dads often feel invisible after baby 🌀 The resentment cycle that quietly builds in relationships 🛠 Tools to help dads reconnect with their partner and role ❤️ How small shifts create big changes in your connection Parenthood doesn’t have to mean drifting apart. Whether you’re a dad feeling unappreciated or a mom looking to better understand your partner’s perspective, this episode is packed with practical tips to bring you closer. — Mentioned Resources 1. Couples’ Communication Checklist 2. Reconnect With Her CHALLENGE ALSO, learn more about men's psychology in parenthood [Episode on Patrescence] as well as moms' psychology [Episode 1 on Matrescence] --- Full Transcript HERE. --- 📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 01 Sep 2024 | Cultivating Compassion in Children [How to teach a child empathy, kindness and compassion] | Episode 21 | 00:16:27 | |
Do you ever wonder how to teach your child to be more compassionate and kind? In this episode, we dive into the heart of raising empathetic children by exploring the powerful role modeling plays in their development. We'll talk about how the simple, everyday actions you take can shape your child’s understanding of empathy, kindness, and compassion — without needing to be perfect. Using relatable stories, we’ll look at how even small acts of kindness can have a big impact. Plus, I'll share some easy, practical ways to encourage compassionate behavior in your kids, even when life gets hectic. Here’s a quick peek at what we’ll cover: 🌟 Why modeling compassion is more powerful than simply teaching it 📚 How books about compassion can help your child learn empathy 💬 Simple ways to talk to your child about kindness and feelings 🤝 Tips for handling negative behavior with compassion instead of punishment 🌱 The long-term benefits of raising a compassionate child Whether you're trying to teach your child good manners or wondering how to encourage kindness and empathy, this episode is packed with insights to help you on your parenting journey. Tune in to Episode 21 to discover how you can foster a home environment where compassion thrives! --- Journaling Exercise
--- Related Resources and Links > FREE Self-Connect Calendar| > FREE Guide: Calm Parent Calm Child > (Re)Discover Your Identity in Motherhood [waitlist] > Get in touch with me (Instagram; website; e-mail) > Leave a Podcast Review HERE 😀 > FREE Motherhood Coaching Session: Send an e-mail to info@markellakaplani.com with the subject line “Podcast Guesting” > Join our community on Facebook: Parenthood and Relationship Group --- Find the full transcript HERE. 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! 📲 Follow me on Instagram @markella.kaplani for more insights and updates. --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 02 Jun 2024 | Lost in Motherhood? Processing Mom Grief & Reconnecting with Ourselves | Episode 8 | 00:28:09 | |
Can great joy come with a deep sense of loss?
In this episode, we begin the conversation around processing grief and loss in motherhood. The transition into motherhood comes with hidden grief; mom grief. This kind of grief comes from losing touch with one’s old self, making motherhood difficult and playing a huge role in motherhood psychology and mental health. But this is something that remains hidden due to the mom guilt and shame that comes with admitting this loss - as though it negates the happiness - as though it negates a mother’s absolute love. So, what happens when we feel loss but are shamed into ignoring it away? Does it go away? Today we talk about processing grief and loss in motherhood and I give you the first steps to reconnect with yourself through a (a) self-reflection journal prompts and (b) a 30-day self-connection calendar, both of which I have made sure to include in this description to make the process easier for you. What do you say? Are you ready?
#momguilt #matrescence #realmotherhood #honestmom #motherhoodunplugged
Find the full transcript HERE.
***Resources mentioned in the episode
Go to markellakaplani.com/selfconnectcalendar so that you can get this gentle guide that will help you nurture your relationship with yourself every day with a tiny action that respects your busy schedule and your mental load!!
Journaling Prompt Questions
— https://markellakaplani.com/identityintensivewaitlist — Liking this? Please SHARE with a friend (or more!) and leave me a REVIEW on Apple Podcasts; I appreciate it more than I can express in words! --- LET'S TAKE OUR RELATIONSHIP TO THE NEXT LEVEL 😉 - Find me on Instagram: @markella.kaplani - Download the Self-Connect Calendar HERE. - Join our community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/parenthoodandrelationship/ - Visit my website for resources, quizzes, articles, and more: markellakaplani.com/ - E-mail me: info@markellakaplani.com — Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 26 Jan 2025 | Overcoming Motherhood Rage: The Matrescence Journey to Healing with Sami Evanson | Ep. 42 | 00:56:59 | |
Motherhood can be beautiful, but it can also bring unexpected challenges like postpartum rage—a raw and often unspoken aspect of the matrescence journey. In this heartfelt episode, we dive deep into the emotional layers of being an overwhelmed mom and why some moms experience feelings of anger and frustration in the early stages of motherhood. Through Sami's deeply personal story, we explore the intersection of postpartum struggles, motherhood challenges, and the healing power of self-awareness. Together, we uncover how a supportive motherhood community, small pockets of self-care, and honest conversations about emotional burnout can transform rage into growth. ✨ Today, we find out:
If you’ve ever felt like an overwhelmed mom on the edge or questioned if your parenting struggles are “normal,” this episode is for you. Discover actionable self-care tips for moms and embark on your own healing journey to find peace amidst the chaos. You’re not alone—tune in and start reclaiming joy in your motherhood experience today.
--- Full Episode Transcript HERE --- Sami's Details and Links Sami is a mom of 2 young girls and joyfully shares life with everyone she meets. She's on a mission to help moms have access to resources and tools to make their motherhood journey easier and more fun. She loves being outside and finding ways to enjoy life more with her family. Sami is the master curator of GEMs resource library, bringing the best resources together to help moms find community, support, freedom and fun in motherhood. Website- Www.Goodenoughmatrescence.com IG- @goodenoughmatrescence Free 5 min meditation to find calm during the storm- www.goodenoughmatrescence.com/calm Toolkit of my go tos to break the anger cycle- www.goodenoughmatrescence.com/mama-reset-toolkit ---Want to take our relationship to the next level? 👉Here are my top Resources 👉 Link to my Newsletter 👉 Join the Reconnect with Your Partner Challenge 📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 09 Jun 2024 | Communication skills for couples: Navigating parenthood and parenting together | Episode 9 | 00:50:53 | |
Parenthood and the responsibilities of parenting change us and define our relationship with our partners from the time we become parents. This is not synonymous with having relationship problems after the baby. In fact, this transformation that happens both within yourself and in the way you relate to your partner, can benefit you greatly - it can bring you closer together if you nurture your relationship.
And that is exactly what we talk about in this episode. More specifically, we discuss the 👉 common long term relationship problems that many couples face after having kids 👉 importance of keeping our relationship strong 👉 ways to recognize whether the distance between us is part of the process or becoming problematic 👉 communication issues that arise when we avoid the tough conversations 👉 10 realistic ways to reconnect with our partners Have a listen and then make sure to 🎙️ leave me a review ⬇️ download the Couples’ Communication Checklist (https://www.markellakaplani.com/coupleschecklist) #couplegoals #RelationshipGoals #marriageafterbaby #happilymarried #parenthood #parenting #honestparenthood
Find the full transcript HERE.
***Resources mentioned in the episode Journaling Prompt Questions
— Get your Checklist for Healthy Communication in Parenthood OR - leave me a REVIEW on Apple Podcasts, take a screenshot of the review, and e-mail me that screenshot at info@markellakaplani.com so that I can email it to you for free!\ — https://markellakaplani.com/identityintensivewaitlist — Liking this? Please SHARE with a friend (or more!) and leave me a REVIEW on Apple Podcasts; I appreciate it more than I can express in words! --- LET'S TAKE OUR RELATIONSHIP TO THE NEXT LEVEL 😉 - Find me on Instagram: @markella.kaplani - Take the Couple’s Quiz: Is Parenthood Making or Breaking Your Relationship? markellakaplani.com/couplesquiz - Join our community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/parenthoodandrelationship/ - Visit my website for resources, quizzes, articles, and more: markellakaplani.com/ - E-mail me: info@markellakaplani.com — Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 05 Jan 2025 | Reparent Yourself: Befriending Your Inner Critic to Achieve Gentle Parenting & Heal Generational Trauma | Ep. 39 | 00:49:39 | |
Parenthood isn’t just about raising kids – it’s about rewriting your relationship with yourself. In this transformative episode, we explore how gentle parenting starts from within. If you’ve ever wondered why staying calm with your kids feels impossible some days, the answer lies in your inner critic. Together, we uncover how your past parenting experiences shape the way you treat yourself – and how that impacts your children.
Through heartfelt stories and actionable steps, this episode dives deep into:
By the end, you’ll understand why parenting isn’t just about doing more – it’s about healing yourself to create the family culture you dream of. TimeStamps 00:00 Welcome to Season Two! 01:29 The Power of Gentle Parenting 07:23 Understanding Self-Criticism 12:51 Breaking the Cycle of Self-Criticism 34:18 Practical Steps for Self-Compassion 47:36 Final Thoughts and Weekly Challenge --- Full Transcript HERE — Want to take our relationship to the next level? 👉Here are my top Resources 📩 Get in touch with me instagram.com/markella.kaplani www.markellakaplani.com e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach | |||
| 25 Aug 2024 | Compassionate Communication for Couples: Building Stronger Relationships after Parenthood [Cultivating Compassion in Parenthood Series #3] | Episode 20 | 00:34:18 | |
Do you ever feel like parenthood has impacted how you connect with your partner? In this episode, I break down how we can foster compassionate communication in our relationship, even when we’re exhausted and juggling a million things at once. We chat about why it’s so easy to lose sight of our partners when we’re in the thick of parenting, and I’ll share some practical tips on how to keep that connection alive. Using real-life examples we see how small shifts in communication can make a big difference. Here’s a quick rundown of what we’ll cover: 🌟 The impact of self-compassion on your relationship 👂 The art of active listening and why it matters 💬 How to express your needs without blame or judgment 💞 The importance of empathy and understanding your partner’s perspective 🧠 Why regular check-ins can keep your relationship strong 🤝 Tips on navigating tough conversations with kindness and care --- LINKS MENTIONED Episode #1: Matrescence Episode # 4: Patrescence Episode # 9: Communication Skills in Parenting Couples Communication Checklist Get it for FREE by leaving an Apple Podacst review and sending me a screenshot HERE. --- Journaling Exercise Go to your journal and think about one thing that you want to discuss with your partner. Don't pick the most difficult one. Don't pick one that is going to create a lot of tension. Pick something lighter that you think is not resolved that you still think needs a little bit of work. And as a first step, just write it down in your journal. Write down the emotions that you feel and how you would turn the conversation into I statements. Then, you can go and download my communications checklist for couples, review it a little bit, and see how you can incorporate those I statements that you have in your journal into a conversation that you can have with your partner. --- Resources and Links Mentioned > FREE Self-Connect Calendar| > FREE Guide: Calm Parent Calm Child > (Re)Discover Your Identity in Motherhood [waitlist] > Get in touch with me (Instagram; website; e-mail) > Leave a Podcast Review HERE 😀 > FREE Motherhood Coaching Session: Send an e-mail to info@markellakaplani.com with the subject line “Podcast Guesting” > Join our community on Facebook: Parenthood and Relationship Group --- JOURNALING EXERCISE: Pick one of the suggestions that I made, whether that be the self-connect calendar (markellakaplani.com/selfconnectcalendar), whether it be a meditation with a body scan or mindful breathing, whether it's taking a walk, practicing self-forgiveness, etc… take one of these and write how you're going to be implementing it in your journal. --- Find the full transcript HERE. 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! 📲 Follow me on Instagram @markella.kaplani for more insights and updates. --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist www.markellakaplani.com
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| 19 May 2024 | Unhappy Marriage After Baby? Communication Tips for Navigating Parenthood & Parenting | Episode 6 | 00:39:06 | |
It is quite common for couples to lose their edge as they enter parenthood. If you have even felt like your relationship has changed after having kids or that the parenting challenges are getting in the way of your relationship, you’re not alone. In this episode, we explore why so many marriages and partnerships seem to face relationship issues, especially in the first year of a baby- and this includes couples with solid foundations. By looking at the unspoken feelings that mothers and fathers experience at the onset of parenthood, we explore tips for establishing open communication and reconnecting with our partners to strengthen the bond and the family unit as a whole. Let's dive in!
Find the full transcript HERE.
***Resources mentioned in the episode
Episode on how our inner child influences the way we parent: Episode 3
Journaling Prompt Questions
4., What is one thing I wish I could express more freely?
Get your Checklist for Healthy Communication in Parenthood OR - leave me a REVIEW on Apple Podcasts, take a screenshot of the review, and e-mail me that screenshot at info@markellakaplani.com so that I can email it to you for free!
Liking this? Please SHARE with a friend (or more!) and leave me a REVIEW on Apple Podcasts; I appreciate it more than I can express in words! --- LET'S TAKE OUR RELATIONSHIP TO THE NEXT LEVEL 😉 - Find me on Instagram: @markella.kaplani - Take the Couple’s Quiz: Is Parenthood Making or Breaking Your Relationship? markellakaplani.com/couplesquiz - Join our community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/parenthoodandrelationship/ - Visit my website for resources, quizzes, articles, and more: markellakaplani.com/ - E-mail me: info@markellakaplani.com — Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist www.markellakaplani.com
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| 02 Feb 2025 | Communication Breakdowns After Baby: Why Couples Stop Talking & How to Fix It | Ep. 43 | 00:49:24 | |
Feeling distant from your partner after having a baby? You’re not alone. Many couples struggle with communication breakdowns after becoming parents, leaving them feeling disconnected, unheard, and even questioning their relationship. In this episode, we’ll dive into: ✔️ Why couples stop talking after kids (it’s not just sleep deprivation!) ✔️ The hidden reasons behind emotional distance in parenthood ✔️ How to recognize the signs of communication breakdown before it’s too late ✔️ Tested strategies to bring back meaningful conversations and intimacy If your relationship feels like it’s running on autopilot, don’t wait until resentment builds up. Learn how to reset communication, reconnect emotionally, and rebuild your bond as partners—not just co-parents. --- Full Transcript HERE. — Want to take our relationship to the next level? 👉Here are my top Resources 👉 Link to my Newsletter 👉 Join the Reconnect with Your Partner Challenge 📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 18 Aug 2024 | Cultivating Self-Compassion as a Parent: Overcoming Perfectionism and Parental Guilt [Cultivating Compassion in Parenthood Series] | Episode 19 | 00:18:24 | |
Do you find that though you may be quite good at comforting friends, you are very harsh on yourself and your perceived parental failings? Might you possibly be carrying the belief that if you are hard on yourself for your shortcomings, you are helping yourself improve? If the weight of perfection and high expectations has got you down in parenthood, you are not the only one. Being a perfectionist is one thing. Being a parent and a perfectionist is a whole different ballgame. | Motherhood and fatherhood are calling you to transform; to learn a different path toward self-improvement - one that involves self-compassion at its core.
In today’s episode, you will
Whether you're a new parent or navigating the complexities of raising children, this episode offers valuable insights to help you nurture yourself and those you love. Don't miss out on the tips and tools to create a more compassionate and fulfilling parenting journey.
🔗 Tune in now and share with other parents who might benefit! --- Resources and Links Mentioned > FREE Self-Connect Calendar| > FREE Guide: Calm Parent Calm Child > (Re)Discover Your Identity in Motherhood [waitlist] > Get in touch with me (Instagram; website; e-mail) > Leave a Podcast Review HERE 😀 > FREE Motherhood Coaching Session: Send an e-mail to info@markellakaplani.com with the subject line “Podcast Guesting” > Join our community on Facebook: Parenthood and Relationship Group --- JOURNALING EXERCISE: Pick one of the suggestions that I made, whether that be the self-connect calendar (markellakaplani.com/selfconnectcalendar), whether it be a meditation with a body scan or mindful breathing, whether it's taking a walk, practicing self-forgiveness, etc… take one of these and write how you're going to be implementing it in your journal. --- Find the full transcript HERE. 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! 📲 Follow me on Instagram @markella.kaplani for more insights and updates. --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist www.markellakaplani.com
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| 06 Oct 2024 | Feeling Unsupported as a Mom? Is it gaslighting or oversensitivity? Real Mom Support vs Expectations | Matrescence | 00:25:46 | |
Have you ever felt unsupported as a mom? Motherhood is tough, but what makes it even harder is when societal expectations are disguised as support. If you’ve ever asked yourself, "Am I being too sensitive?" or wondered if you’re overreacting to well-meaning advice, you're not alone. In this episode of The Parenthood and Relationship Podcast, we’ll talk about the difference between real support and the subtle pressure that often makes moms feel judged, gaslit, and even burdened by mom guilt. Where do these expectations come from, and how can we start recognizing when advice is more about the other person’s comfort than actual help? More importantly, how do we stop passing down generational expectations and offer moms the kind of support that truly lightens their load? 🎧 In today’s episode, we explore:
If you’ve ever struggled with feeling guilty or unsure whether you're receiving true support, this episode is for you. We’ll discuss the small yet powerful shifts that can help both moms and those who care about them offer support in a way that truly makes a difference. --- DOWNLOAD THE FREE MINI VIDEO SERIES ON HOW MOTHERHOOD CHANGES US Get it here for FREE: https://www.markellakaplani.com/videoseries --- Journaling Exercise 1. If you are a mom who feels gaslit or unsupportedThink about a recent situation where you felt unsupported, judged, or dismissed. Reflect on how the interaction made you feel. Did you second-guess your emotions or decisions? Ask yourself: Were my feelings invalidated, or was I told I was overreacting? How do I usually respond in moments like these, and what impact does it have on my confidence as a mother? Write down your thoughts and ask yourself:
Reflect on a recent time when you gave advice or support to a mom in your life. Was my advice really what she needed, or did it reflect my own unresolved experiences and fears? Was I trying to validate my own choices by encouraging her to follow my path? How can I better tune into her needs and offer support that honors her journey, not mine? Write down your thoughts and explore:
—- Related Resources and Links > FREE Self-Connect Calendar > FREE Guide: Calm Parent Calm Child > (Re)Discover Your Identity in Motherhood [waitlist] > Get in touch with me (Instagram; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) > Leave a Podcast Review HERE 😀 > FREE Motherhood Coaching Session: Send an e-mail to info@markellakaplani.com with the subject line “Podcast Guesting” > Join our community on Facebook: Parenthood and Relationship Group --- Find the full transcript HERE. 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! 📲 Follow me on Instagram @markella.kaplani for more insights and updates. --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 06 Apr 2025 | Love Language Not Working Anymore? How Parenthood, Stress, and Identity Shifts Change Emotional Needs in Marriage and Long-Term Relationships | Ep. 52 | 00:23:10 | |
Have you ever thought, “Why doesn’t love feel the same anymore?” Maybe you used to love hugs, long talks, or sweet texts… but now, you just want someone to do the dishes or give you five minutes alone. If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. In today’s episode, we talk about something a lot of people wonder but don’t always say out loud: "Why doesn’t my love language work anymore after having kids?" If you've been searching things like:
When we become parents, everything changes. Our energy, our emotions, our body, our brain — all of it. And that means the way we feel love changes too. In this episode, I explain:
Whether you’re feeling emotionally distant in your relationship, wondering if something is wrong, or just confused about why your partner’s kind gestures don’t hit like they used to, this episode will help you understand what’s really going on. And no, you’re not cold or ungrateful. You’re simply adjusting to a new season. Your needs have changed — and that’s okay. We’ll also talk about matrescence and patrescence — two big words that describe how our identity changes when we become parents. These changes touch everything, including the way we love and connect. At the end, I’ll walk you through 4 simple steps to figure out what kind of love and support you need now. It’s not about fixing yourself — it’s about getting curious and starting a fresh, honest conversation with yourself… and your partner. 🎁 Want extra support? Download my free journaling prompt to discover your current love language at markellakaplani.com/newsletter --- Full Transcript HERE. -- Want to take our relationship to the next level? 👉 Subscribe for more parenting insights 👉 Grab my top Resources 👉 Get on my [FREE] Newsletter 👉 Join the Reconnect with Your Partner Challenge 📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 20 Oct 2024 | The 3 Most Common Communication Issues in Relationships and Marriage after Baby and How to EASILY Fix them | Marriage Problems and Solutions | Episode 28 | 00:35:13 | |
Feeling disconnected in your relationship after having kids? You’re not alone. In this episode, we get real about the communication struggles that many couples face after becoming parents. Parenthood brings new challenges, and it’s common for communication issues to arise, but they don’t have to drive a wedge between you and your partner. We explore the 3 most common communication mistakes couples make after kids, and most importantly, how to fix them. Discover practical ways to reconnect with your partner, establish healthy communication, and create a more harmonious family dynamic. Join me to uncover how parenthood shifts the way we communicate and learn simple, effective strategies to rebuild that bond and strengthen your relationship. Here’s the truth: You and your partner can still have a connected, thriving relationship, even in the chaos of parenthood. My tools will help you enhance your communication and create a stronger, more connected family unit. Today We Find Out: 🧠 3 common communication mistakes that couples make after kids 🔍 How lack of appreciation creates distance in relationships 💡 Practical ways to express your needs clearly 👶 How parenthood affects the way we communicate 💬 How to use “clear and compassionate requests” 🧳 The importance of gratitude and appreciation in maintaining connection 🧘 How to manage stress to avoid damaging conversations This episode will leave you feeling ready to tackle your communication challenges and bring more balance and understanding into your relationship. --- Referenced Links Couple’s Communication Checklist markellakaplani.com/coupleschecklist (Send me a screenshot of your Apple review at info@markellakaplani.com and get it for FREE) Couple’s Communication Workshop markellakaplani.com/CouplesWorkshop Sign up for the waitlist and be the first to know when we go live! — Journaling Exercise As your journaling exercise this week, pick one of the strategies discussed in the episode and put it into practice. Write down in your journal whether you'll be using the daily appreciation ritual or the pausing before you snap, or whether you will be doing the weekly check ins. Each small step helps to build a stronger foundation for your relationship. --- Related Resources and Links > FREE Self-Connect Calendar > FREE Guide: Calm Parent Calm Child > (Re)Discover Your Identity in Motherhood [waitlist] > Get in touch with me (Instagram; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) > Leave a Podcast Review HERE 😀 > FREE Motherhood Coaching Session: Send an e-mail to info@markellakaplani.com with the subject line “Podcast Guesting” > Join our community on Facebook: Parenthood and Relationship Group ---
Find the full transcript HERE. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Arefwmg49G5qXmJzzrdzR58MHqvt1zcthjgqeVHds8M/edit?usp=sharing — 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! 📲 Follow me on Instagram @markella.kaplani for more insights and updates. --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 26 May 2024 | How play helps child development and the parent child bond (+ suggested parent child bonding activities) | Episode 7 | 00:26:29 | |
In today’s episode we talk about the effects of play on child development. More specifically, we get into how play impacts child development. We first see the different types of play, how each helps child development, how it can foster the parent-child bond, as well as the ways in which it can even improve our marriage! Most importantly, I leave you with parent child bonding activities and attachment building activities so that you can learn how to use play to strengthen the relationship with you child and also foster qualities such as independence, socialization, creativity, innovation and physical strength amongst many others. Finally, we explore how our past and our inner child may influence the way WE as adults and parents relate to play and I provide you with journaling prompts so that you can discover your relationship to play, how this influences your child, and how you can go about incorporating more unstructured play in your child’s daily routine. See this as a small introduction to play therapy, which can do wonders for our children even when we, as parents, apply it at home. Having fun can be therapeutic for both our children and for us. Hit play and let’s do this! Find the full transcript HERE.
***Resources mentioned in the episode Discover your unique approach to play! Go to markellakaplani.com/playstyle so that you can find out your parenting play style and get personalized tips to make playtime even more effective and enjoyable for both you and your child!
Journaling Prompt Questions
— Get your Checklist for Healthy Communication in Parenthood OR - leave me a REVIEW on Apple Podcasts, take a screenshot of the review, and e-mail me that screenshot at info@markellakaplani.com so that I can email it to you for free!
Liking this? Please SHARE with a friend (or more!) and leave me a REVIEW on Apple Podcasts; I appreciate it more than I can express in words! --- LET'S TAKE OUR RELATIONSHIP TO THE NEXT LEVEL 😉 - Find me on Instagram: @markella.kaplani - Take the Couple’s Quiz: Is Parenthood Making or Breaking Your Relationship? markellakaplani.com/couplesquiz - Join our community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/parenthoodandrelationship/ - Visit my website for resources, quizzes, articles, and more: markellakaplani.com/ - E-mail me: info@markellakaplani.com — Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 15 Sep 2024 | Healing Generational Trauma: Nervous System Regulation in Parenthood with Holly Logan | Episode 23 | 01:01:09 | |
In this heartwarming episode, I welcome special guest Holly Logan, a master’s prepared nurse and family nurse practitioner, to explore the vital topic of nervous system regulation in parenthood. Holly is an advanced practice nurse by education who is currently a stay-at-home mom to three boys. Through her own personal health struggles and transitions into parenting, she grew a passion for family wellness and nervous system health. Our conversation is powerful and insightful as it touches on the importance of managing stress, trauma, and overwhelm as parents, especially when navigating the challenges of parenthood. Holly dives deep into how personal and generational trauma affects our parenting styles, offering practical tips for regulating the nervous system and balancing mental and physical wellness in daily life. Key discussion points include
⚠️ Content Warning: This episode mentions sensitive topics such as substance abuse, addiction, suicide, and loss. It’s best listened to with earbuds if you’re around children or need a gentler space for these discussions. Be sure to check out Holly Logan’s podcast Lead with Empathy and follow her on Instagram @hollylogan_health. --- Journaling Exercise Sometimes, developing greater self-awareness requires consistent practice and thoughtful reflection. For those of you who may be struggling to recognize patterns in how stress or triggers affect your day-to-day life, I’d like to offer a practical journaling exercise. Take a few days to simply observe yourself. Pay attention to the physical, emotional, and cognitive cues that may lead to feelings of frustration, overwhelm, or emotional withdrawal. You don’t need to immediately associate these moments with deeper triggers—just notice them. What does a typical week look like for you? Write down instances when you may have snapped, felt disconnected, scrolled for longer than you intended, or reacted in a way you weren’t proud of. By observing and documenting these moments, you may begin to uncover patterns that have gone unnoticed due to the routine nature of daily life. This exercise allows you to step back and reflect as an observer, gaining clarity by reviewing your week with fresh eyes. Sometimes, it’s only when we see things on paper that we truly begin to connect the dots. --- Related Resources and Links > FREE Self-Connect Calendar > FREE Guide: Calm Parent Calm Child > (Re)Discover Your Identity in Motherhood [waitlist] > Get in touch with me (Instagram; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) > Leave a Podcast Review HERE 😀 > FREE Motherhood Coaching Session: Send an e-mail to info@markellakaplani.com with the subject line “Podcast Guesting” > Join our community on Facebook: Parenthood and Relationship Group --- Find the full transcript HERE. -- 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! 📲 Follow me on Instagram @markella.kaplani for more insights and updates. --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist www.markellakaplani.com
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| 28 Jul 2024 | Struggling with Self-Criticism as a Parent? 6 Steps to Overcome Parental Guilt and Shame (Mom Guilt | Dad Guilt) | Episode 16 | 00:23:20 | |
Do you have a voice in your head telling you are not enough? Do you, too, have these days where you feel like you are failing at parenthood? Are there days that you feel you were not cut out to be a mom; not cut out to be a dad? In this heartfelt episode, we dive deep into the struggle of facing our inner critic, especially as parents. If you've ever questioned your abilities, felt overwhelmed by parental guilt and shame, or wondered if you're doing enough, you're not alone. Join me as I share my personal experience of overcoming guilt and shame as a parent, and discover practical strategies to validate and normalize your emotions. Learn how to recognize and dissociate from the critical voice, practice self-compassion, and focus on the present. Find out why it's okay to have bad days and how to turn them into opportunities for growth and connection. This episode is packed with insights and tips to help you navigate the ups and downs of parenthood, reclaim your balance, and embrace your true self. Don't miss out on this empowering conversation that promises to offer comfort, guidance, and a sense of solidarity.
-- Resources and Links Mentioned > (Re)Discover Your Identity in Motherhood [waitlist] > Get in touch with me (Instagram; website; e-mail) > Leave a Podcast Review HERE 😀 > FREE Motherhood Coaching Session: Send an e-mail to info@markellakaplani.com with the subject line “Podcast Guesting” > Join our community on Facebook: Parenthood and Relationship Group
-- JOURNALING EXERCISE:
-- Find the full transcript HERE.
-- 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! 📲 Follow me on Instagram @markella.kaplani for more insights and updates. -- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist www.markellakaplani.com
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| 10 Nov 2024 | Resentment in Marriage: How Parenthood Brings up Old Wounds and Unresolved Issues | Fatherhood | Ep. 31 | 00:45:35 | |
Resentment can be a silent weight in many relationships, and for parents, it often feels intensified. In this episode, we dive into the roots of resentment in marriage, exploring how parenthood can uncover unresolved emotional wounds that surface when life becomes busier and more demanding. Whether it’s unspoken needs going unmet or feeling like one partner is carrying more of the load, resentment can subtly shift how we view each other and impact our closeness. Today we find out why resentment builds, especially after having kids, and how it’s often a signal that something important needs attention. 🧠 More specifically, we take a look at:
This conversation isn’t about blame. It’s about creating a more connected, compassionate partnership and breaking free from resentment’s cycle so you both feel supported. I hope you’ll join me! — Mentioned Resources 1. Google: John and Julie Gottman - Relationship experts who research what makes a healthy relationship. 2. Couples’ Communication Checklist 3. Reconnect With Her CHALLENGE Learn more about your psychology in fatherhood [Episode on Patrescence] as well as your partner’s [Episode 1 on Matrescence] --- Full Transcript HERE. --- 📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 29 Sep 2024 | COACHING SESSION #1: Healing from Generational Sacrifice [Motherhood expectations | Working Mom | Mom Burnout] | Episode 25 | 00:53:09 | |
In this heart-opening episode, you’ll witness a live coaching session with Devan, a mother of two young children, who vulnerably shares her struggles around juggling motherhood, work, and personal fulfillment (see her bio below!). As a grief counselor, Devan is no stranger to the emotional landscape of life’s challenges, but in her journey through motherhood, she grapples with feelings of guilt, the pressure to be an “awesome mom,” and the struggle to find balance. Together, we explore Devan’s conflicting identities: the loving mom she wants to be, showing up in every way possible and the business she strives to keep on scaling. Through insightful coaching, we unpack her inner critic, expectations, and fears that most parents will resonate with deeply. Will she find the balance she yearns for, or is there more to the concept of "enough"? Join us on this exploration of self-sacrifice, generational expectations, and redefining success as a parent. In this episode, you’ll gain: 👉 Insight into the emotional struggles of balancing motherhood and career 👉 Practical strategies for managing mom guilt 👉 Real-life examples of handling burnout as a parent 👉 Tools to connect with your children while maintaining your personal identity 👉 An honest look at the internal pressures mothers feel to "do it all" With love, vulnerability, and compassion, this episode is sure to resonate with parents navigating the complexity of modern motherhood. #MomGuilt #ParentingBalance #WorkingMomStruggles #HealingGenerations #MomBurnout #MotherhoodJourney
DOWNLOAD THE FREE MINI VIDEO SERIES ON HOW MOTHERHOOD CHANGES US Find out why and how this happens in key areas of life, including your personality, your relationship, your work, and even your spirituality. Get it here for FREE: https://www.markellakaplani.com/videoseries --- Journaling Exercise Take some time to reflect on the emotions that surfaced while listening to this episode.
— More on Devan and her incredible work: Devan, MCP, RCC, is a Registered Clinical Counsellor, owner of DevanCecilia Counselling, and mom of two toddlers. After experiencing 20 deaths before the age of 20, Devan felt called to sit and support others who needed help and connection. With over a decade of clinical experience in grief and loss, end-of-life, caregiving support, and mental health, Devan believes no stories or thoughts are too scary, too much, too big, or too soon to talk about. After working with and supporting others in their grief, Devan felt called to help create a better experience for grievers before life-altering losses. She created The Grief Kit, and Gather Before Goodbye, an online guide to collecting as much as possible about your loved ones before they die. A four-step collection method to memorialize and celebrate a loved one’s life in advance of their death. https://devanceciliacounselling.com/ Facebook and Instagram: @devanceciliacounselling LinkedIn: Devan Christian-Vermeer Podcast guest links: https://www.griefdreams.ca/podcast/98?rq=devan https://www.youtube.com/live/PxVJs4uBcGs?si=WkQzsDGlwBv3jTpF —- Related Resources and Links > FREE Self-Connect Calendar > FREE Guide: Calm Parent Calm Child > (Re)Discover Your Identity in Motherhood [waitlist] > Get in touch with me (Instagram; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) > Leave a Podcast Review HERE 😀 > FREE Motherhood Coaching Session: Send an e-mail to info@markellakaplani.com with the subject line “Podcast Guesting” > Join our community on Facebook: Parenthood and Relationship Group --- Find the full transcript HERE. 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! 📲 Follow me on Instagram @markella.kaplani for more insights and updates. --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 19 Jan 2025 | Feeling Anxious After Baby? How to Recognize and Manage Postpartum Anxiety | Ep. 41 | 00:33:23 | |
Postpartum anxiety affects 1 in 5 mothers, yet many don’t realize what’s happening. You’re not alone, and you’re not failing. Anxiety in new parenthood can feel like an unrelenting fire alarm, keeping you on edge and stealing the joy from those precious first months. This episode unpacks the emotional and physical toll postpartum anxiety takes and how societal pressures can make it worse. But there’s hope! You’ll learn five actionable strategies, from mindfulness practices to reframing anxious thoughts, to help you regain clarity and connection. Today, we’ll uncover:
Postpartum anxiety doesn’t mean you’re weak or broken. It’s a sign your system needs compassion and care. Listen now and take your first step toward healing—for you and your family. --- Full Transcript HERE. — Want to take our relationship to the next level? 👉Here are my top Resources 👉 Link to my Newsletter 👉 Join the Reconnect with Your Partner Challenge 📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 02 Apr 2024 | Welcome to the Parenthood and Relationship Podcast! | 00:03:32 | |
Looking for a haven for understanding the complex dynamics of becoming a parent and evolving relationships? You’ve arrived!
The Parenthood and Relationship Podcast delves into the psychology of parenthood, the nuanced stages of matrescence and patrescence, and the intricate balance between personal identity and parenting roles.
This is not your average parenting advice platform. Adding to the plentiful resources that arm us with parenting strategies we, indeed, benefit from, this podcast has been designed with a stronger focus on the emotional and psychological shifts experienced during the transition to parenthood, like grappling with the loss of identity, navigating parenting challenges, and seeking to strengthen their relationship with ourselves, our partner, and our children amidst the whirlwind of parenting.
As a clinical-counseling psychologist, a parenthood and relationship coach, a matrescence activist, and a parent, my goal is to integrate the many facets of the family dynamic that I’ve been privileged to experience to present holistic, straightforward, and compassionate insights we can all use to become more confident, reassured, and present in our parenting and our relationship with ourselves and our partners.
Each weekly episode aims to foster self-awareness, personal growth, and a deeper understanding of the evolving relationships within the family unit.
You can look forward to topics ranging from overcoming parental guilt to exploring how parenthood affects marriage, as we address the internal struggles, the relationship dynamics post-childbirth, and the path to harmonizing the new family structure.
With a focus on practical, research-based parenting strategies and the importance of self-reflection and reparenting, my hope is that you take our discussions and synthesize them with your own expertise and intuition to establish your unique direction on becoming the parent you aspire to be.
If any of this resonates, join our supportive circle where deep introspection and mutual support pave the way to personal and relational fulfillment.
I can’t wait to explore, grow, and thrive together in this exciting journey of parenthood!
Welcome! - | |||
| 12 May 2024 | Overcoming Mom Guilt & Shame: Practical Strategies for Happier Parenting | Episode 5 | 00:53:02 | |
As mothers, we are quite familiar with feelings of guilt and inadequacy, which can deeply impact our emotional well-being and relationships. This episode unpacks the nuances of mom guilt versus mom shame, providing clear definitions and exploring how these emotions manifest in everyday parenting. Together we get to discover the historical contexts and societal pressures that amplify these feelings, along with personal anecdotes and external comments that trigger guilt and shame among us, mothers. We'll explore the direct effects on our self-esteem, mental health, and the dynamics within marital relationships and parenting styles. Then, we learn unique and practical strategies to combat these pervasive feelings to reframe our personal parenting stories. Finally, we talk about the crucial role partners can play in supporting mothers through this journey, offering specific exercises like active listening and shared journaling. This episode is a must-listen for any parent feeling overwhelmed by guilt or seeking to build a more supportive and understanding relationship with their partner. Tune in to find actionable advice and compassionate insights to help you navigate the complexities of motherhood with confidence.
*Resources mentioned in the episode [FREE] Matrescence Mini Video Series: markellakaplani.com/videoseries [FREE] Journaling Prompt Questions PDF: markellakaplani.com/momguilt
Find the full transcript HERE.
Liking this? Please SHARE with a friend (or more!) and leave me a REVIEW on Apple Podcasts; I appreciate it more than I can express in words! --- LET'S TAKE OUR RELATIONSHIP TO THE NEXT LEVEL 😉 - Find me on Instagram: @markella.kaplani - Join our community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/parenthoodandrelationship/ - Visit my website for resources, quizzes, articles, and more: markellakaplani.com/ - E-mail me: info@markellakaplani.com — Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist www.markellakaplani.com
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| 16 Jun 2024 | How to deal with tantrums in toddlers by self-regulating | Gentle Parenting Tantrums | Episode 10 | 00:41:33 | |
Dealing with toddler tantrums can feel overwhelming, but there are gentle, effective strategies to help. In this episode, we explore:
👉 Understanding the triggers behind an emotional meltdown 👉 The power of self-regulating 👉 Practical tips for calming both yourself and your child 👉 The role of co-regulation in managing tantrums and emotional development
Join me for expert advice on creating a peaceful home environment and nurturing your child’s emotional well-being. If you’ve ever wondered how to deal with toddler tantrums, don’t miss out on the special guide at the end of the episode! 🎙️
🎧 Listen now and leave a review! ⬇️ Download the free guide "Calm Parent, Calm Child"
#GentleParenting #ToddlerTantrums #ParentingTips #SelfRegulation #MindfulParenting
Find the full transcript HERE.
***Resources mentioned in the episode Get your FREE Calm Parent, Calm Child guide Go to markellakaplani.com/calmparentcalmchild to download this gentle guide that includes practical strategies to address toddler tantrums and self-reflection prompts to help you learn to self-regulate the next time your child experiences a meltdown.
Go to markellakaplani.com/selfconnectcalendar so that you can get this gentle guide that will help you nurture your relationship with yourself every day with a tiny action that respects your busy schedule and your mental load!! --- Journaling Prompt Questions
— Liking this? Please SHARE with a friend (or more!) and leave me a REVIEW on Apple Podcasts; I appreciate it more than I can express in words! --- LET'S TAKE OUR RELATIONSHIP TO THE NEXT LEVEL 😉 - Find me on Instagram: @markella.kaplani - Take the Couple’s Quiz: Is Parenthood Making or Breaking Your Relationship? markellakaplani.com/couplesquiz - Join our community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/parenthoodandrelationship/ - Visit my website for resources, quizzes, articles, and more: markellakaplani.com/ - E-mail me: info@markellakaplani.com — Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 22 Sep 2024 | Feeling Loneliness in Motherhood? Here's why! [Gender Roles, Parenthood & Identity] | Episode 24 | 00:39:01 | |
In today’s episode, we dive deep into the fascinating topic of the 'othering' of mothers, exploring how motherhood often creates a distinct separation from womanhood and even fatherhood. Inspired by a conversation I recently had with Jennifer Peterkin on her podcast The Human Experience, I question why society separates moms from other women and why similar spaces for dads are rare. Join us as we explore: 🌸 The difference between motherhood and womanhood and how becoming a mom often alters your social identity. 🤔 Why fathers aren't grouped or supported in the same way, and what that says about gender roles. 💡 How loneliness in motherhood may be a result of creating “special” mom groups. 🧠 The emotional impact of being defined by your role as a mom, and the grief many mothers feel for their previous selves. 🎙️ Allyson Felix’s story with Nike, highlighting the societal expectations placed on women post-pregnancy. 👨👩👧 How we can better support both moms and dads, so parenthood enriches rather than confines. If you’ve ever questioned how parenthood shifts societal views on women and men, this episode is for you! Tune in to learn how we can create inclusive spaces for parents that allow them to embrace all aspects of their identity. 💕
DOWNLOAD THE FREE MINI VIDEO SERIES ON HOW MOTHERHOOD CHANGES US Find out why and how this happens in key areas of life, including your personality, your relationship, your work, and even your spirituality. Get it here for FREE: https://www.markellakaplani.com/videoseries *Be sure to check out Jennifer Peterkin’s podcast The Human Experience and follow her on Instagram @thehxpod. --- Journaling Exercise Reflect on Your Identity in Parenthood
--- Related Resources and Links > FREE Self-Connect Calendar > FREE Guide: Calm Parent Calm Child > (Re)Discover Your Identity in Motherhood [waitlist] > Get in touch with me (Instagram; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) > Leave a Podcast Review HERE 😀 > FREE Motherhood Coaching Session: Send an e-mail to info@markellakaplani.com with the subject line “Podcast Guesting” > Join our community on Facebook: Parenthood and Relationship Group --- Find the full transcript HERE. 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! 📲 Follow me on Instagram @markella.kaplani for more insights and updates. --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist www.markellakaplani.com
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| 14 Jul 2024 | 6 Strategies for Debunking the Super Mom Myth | Redefining Success & Balancing Motherhood | Episode 14 | 00:45:54 | |
Do you constantly wonder how to be the perfect mother? Has it become your life’s mission to balance motherhood and career? Or are you a stay-at-home mom feeling the pressure to be perfect because you don’t “do it all?” In today’s episode, we debunk the Supermom myth by:
I also share 6 strategies for balanced motherhood to help you redefine success and find genuine fulfillment. Let’s put an end to the comparison culture that fuels guilt and inadequacy in mothers. Discover mindful parenting techniques, insights into navigating the Supermom trap, and an introduction to Internal Family Systems therapy for your self-healing journey. Learn how to overcome the Supermom expectations, embrace imperfection, and build a support network for mothers that celebrates simplicity and self-compassion. Find the full transcript HERE. _____ 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! 📲 Follow me on Instagram @markella.kaplani for more insights and updates. _____ #SupermomMyth #MotherhoodUnplugged #ParenthoodPodcast #BalancedMotherhood #MaternalExpectations #MindfulParenting #RedefineSuccess #MomLifeStruggles #BreakTheSupermomMyth #MomSupportNetwork #SelfCompassion #RealMomLife #OvercomingMomPressure #ParentingJourney #AuthenticMotherhood Resources mentioned in the episode: RECONNECT to Yourself! Visit markellakaplani.com/selfconnectcalendar to get a gentle guide that helps you nurture your relationship with yourself daily with tiny actions that respect your busy schedule and mental load! Motherhood Identity Intensive (waitlist) Join the 8-Week Program and Rediscover Yourself!
FREE Motherhood Coaching Session: Send an e-mail to info@markellakaplani.com with the subject line “Podcast Guesting” Journaling Prompt Questions: Find them in fuchsia pink within the full transcript HERE. ___ Liking this? Please SHARE with a friend (or more!) and leave a REVIEW on Apple Podcasts. I appreciate it more than I can express in words! LET'S TAKE OUR RELATIONSHIP TO THE NEXT LEVEL 😉
_____ Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 27 Oct 2024 | Preparing for Motherhood? Cultivating a Flexible Mindset to Get Ready for a Baby | Embracing Change in a Blended Family | Coaching Session with Lexi | Ep. 29 | 00:55:26 | |
Today's episode is another coaching session, where we discuss how to mentally prepare for motherhood and the arrival of a new family member. Join me as I coach Lexi, a mom-to-be and stepmom of 2, through her journey of embracing a positive mindset and finding balance in a blended family. We discuss essential tips on managing family dynamics, staying flexible, and prioritizing mental health while preparing for a new addition to the family whilst exploring and maintaining how to be a supportive step-parent. Whether you're about to become a new parent or are already navigating the world of step-parenting, this episode is for you! Lexi’s story will resonate with anyone who is balancing different family needs, managing a busy life, and trying to keep a positive mindset along the way. Get ready to take away real-life strategies for keeping a healthy perspective and creating a family culture filled with love, understanding, and flexibility. 💪🧘♀️👶✨ What You’ll Learn in this Episode: 🌈 How to cultivate a flexible and positive mindset 👨👩👧 Tips for managing blended family dynamics 🤔 Ways to address self-sacrifice and set boundaries 📅 Tips for preparing for motherhood 🧠 Mindfulness practices to reduce anxiety 💬 Open communication and family therapy benefits 💡 Realistic expectations when juggling multiple roles
-- Lexi's Bio and Links Lexi Kelley Soderberg was burnt out beyond belief when she chose to leave the classroom. She changed her life by switching from classroom teaching to tutoring full-time and now helps other teachers change their lives too. Lexi is on a mission to improve every child's reading ability and empower every adult in the process of helping them. FREE Reading Tracker to set and achieve your reading goals: https://poster.pages.teachertransformers.com/free-guide-1-3232 Interested in seeing if Teacher Transformers is a good fit for you? Book a free call here (https://link.webbrixx.com/widget/booking/pzTgKr8KyRPr6SYZYT7w) — Journaling Exercise To reflect on this and find balance in your own life, here is a journaling prompt: In what areas of my life am I feeling stretched thin? What are three small steps that I could take to seek support, create flexibility, or let go of unrealistic expectations? This reflection is designed to help you see where you can introduce some breathing space and allow for a gentler approach to the challenges you're facing. --- Related Resources and Links > FREE Self-Connect Calendar > FREE Guide: Calm Parent Calm Child > (Re)Discover Your Identity in Motherhood [waitlist] > Get in touch with me (Instagram; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) > Leave a Podcast Review HERE 😀 > FREE Motherhood Coaching Session: Send an e-mail to info@markellakaplani.com with the subject line “Podcast Guesting” --- Find the full transcript HERE. https://docs.google.com/document/d/11OtZvbKyBPHIUhRK86I7YczpfWJliYaMfAL3A8BtyyE/edit?usp=sharing — 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! 📲 Follow me on Instagram @markella.kaplani for more insights and updates. --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 11 Aug 2024 | The Power of Compassion in Parenting: Nurture Yourself, Your Partner, and Your Children [Cultivating Compassion in Parenthood Series] | Episode 18 | 00:17:04 | |
Do you ever find yourself overwhelmed with guilt, feeling like you’re too hard on yourself as a parent or partner? Trust me, you’re not alone. In this first episode of the special August series on Cultivating Compassion in Parenthood, we break down what compassion is, its benefits, and how to take baby steps in developing it more authentically. We’re not just talking about compassion for others, but for yourself, too. Imagine what it would feel like to have that harsh inner critic embrace you, to give yourself a break, and to truly nurture the relationships that mean the most to you. In this episode, I share personal stories, practical tips, and a whole lot of heart about how compassion can soften the edges of those tough parenting days. We’ll explore how being kinder to yourself can ripple out and transform your relationships with your partner and your kids. Parenting isn’t about being perfect—it's about showing up with love, even when things get messy. So grab a cup of coffee or tea, get comfy, and let’s chat about how you can embrace compassion and make your journey a little lighter, a little kinder, and a whole lot more fulfilling. You deserve this!
-- Resources and Links Mentioned > FREE Self-Connect Calendar| > FREE Guide: Calm Parent Calm Child > (Re)Discover Your Identity in Motherhood [waitlist] > Get in touch with me (Instagram; website; e-mail) > Leave a Podcast Review HERE 😀 > FREE Motherhood Coaching Session: Send an e-mail to info@markellakaplani.com with the subject line “Podcast Guesting” > Join our community on Facebook: Parenthood and Relationship Group
JOURNALING EXERCISE: Take your journal and write down something that you did today that was a proud parenting moment or something that was compassionate toward yourself or someone else. This will help you start to notice those positive and beautiful things that happen throughout the day. Our brain has the tendency, it's its natural tendency, to focus on the negatives. Through this exercise, we retrain it so that it can start to focus on the positives as well.
Find the full transcript HERE. 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! 📲 Follow me on Instagram @markella.kaplani for more insights and updates. --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist www.markellakaplani.com
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| 02 Mar 2025 | Feeling Lost After Kids? How to Rediscover Yourself in Parenthood | Matrescence | Patrescence | Ep. 47 | [Rediscover You Series 1/3] | 00:31:01 | |
You know that moment—you’re cleaning up after your kids, scrolling on your phone, and suddenly it hits you: “Who even am I anymore?” Maybe you used to have hobbies, dreams, and interests. But now, your whole identity seems wrapped up in being a parent. You love your kids, but… where did YOU go? If you’ve ever felt that way, you’re not alone. This parenthood identity crisis is more common than we talk about. And the truth? It’s not your fault. 🎙️ In today’s episode, we’re diving into:
It’s so easy to get stuck in survival mode—especially if you’re a stay-at-home parent feeling unfulfilled or struggling with the transition to parenthood. Maybe you thought you’d naturally “figure it out,” but instead, you’re feeling lost, exhausted, and like you don’t even recognize yourself anymore. But here’s the thing: You are more than “just a parent.” 🌿 So, how do we start reclaiming YOU? ✅ Shift your mindset—Parenthood and identity CAN co-exist. You don’t have to choose between being a great parent and being you. ✅ Rebuild your confidence—Finding purpose outside of parenthood doesn’t mean you love your kids any less. ✅ Let go of the guilt—Overcoming guilt and shame starts with recognizing that self-care isn’t selfish. ✅ Take small, intentional steps—Whether it’s a parental transformation or simply making time for yourself, it’s about reconnection, not reinvention. Parenthood changes you. That’s inevitable. But losing yourself completely? That’s not a requirement. So, if you’re feeling lost as a parent, struggling with balancing parenthood and career, or just wondering if you’ll ever feel like yourself again—this episode is for you. 💌 I’ve also put together a free guided journaling exercise to help you pinpoint what’s missing and start reclaiming YOU today. You can grab it through my newsletter—I’ll share the details at the end of the episode. 🎧 Hit play now, and let’s start the journey back to YOU. #parenthoodidentitycrisis #feelinglostasaparent #rediscovery #matrescence #patrescence
–- 🔔 Subscribe for more parenting insights 📩 Join my [FREE] newsletter for extra support - markellakaplani.com/newsletter 👉 Get the [FREE] Calm Parent, Calm Child Guide - markellakaplani.com/calmparentcalmchild 📢 Share this with a parent who needs to hear it! --- Full Transcript HERE. — Want to take our relationship to the next level? 👉Here are my top Resources 👉 Link to my Newsletter 👉 Join the Reconnect with Your Partner Challenge 📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach www.markellakaplani.com
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| 07 Jul 2024 | Overloaded on Parenting Advice? Why reading tons of books on how to parent causes more parenting stress | Episode 13 | 00:37:33 | |
Are you constantly seeking the "perfect" way to parent? 📖 Do you find yourself trying to be the informed parent you envisioned but utterly confused with the conflicting advice you get from parenting books? I know that I certainly looked to every expert book to get more familiar with positive parenting tips, in an attempt to appease any and all parenting stress I had as a first-time mom. But as much parenting advice as one can get, the stress of motherhood (and fatherhood) is REAL and oftentimes amplified when we get information overload and start to dampen our inner voice. In today's episode, we dive into the potential pitfalls of overreading books on how to parent and how it can impact our confidence and joy in parenting. More specifically, today we explore:
Find the full transcript HERE.
🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! 📲 Follow me on Instagram @markella.kaplani for more insights and updates. — #ParentingAdvice #PositiveParenting #NewParents #ParentingBooks #ParentingStress #InformedParent #TraumaInformedParent #Parenthood #MarkellaKaplani #TrustYourInstincts #SelfConnect #ParentingJourney
***Resources mentioned in the episode Go to markellakaplani.com/selfconnectcalendar so that you can get this gentle guide that will help you nurture your relationship with yourself every day with a tiny action that respects your busy schedule and your mental load!! - Journaling Prompt Questions Find them in fuchsia pink within the full transcript HERE. — Liking this? Please SHARE with a friend (or more!) and Leave me a REVIEW on Apple Podcasts I appreciate it more than I can express in words!— --- LET'S TAKE OUR RELATIONSHIP TO THE NEXT LEVEL 😉 - Find me on Instagram: @markella.kaplani - Join our community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/parenthoodandrelationship/ - Visit my website for guides, calendars, courses, articles, and more: markellakaplani.com/ - E-mail me: info@markellakaplani.com — Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 30 Mar 2025 | Postpartum Identity Crisis? How to Reignite Joy and Purpose in Small Doses | Ep. 51 | 00:17:28 | |
There’s a version of you that no one sees anymore—not because she’s gone, but because life got so loud and she got so quiet. In today’s episode, we sit down with that forgotten part of you and whisper: “I still see you.” Through real listener questions, I explore the hidden emotional terrain so many parents walk silently: from grieving lost freedom, to watching your partner thrive while you unravel, to the numbness that creeps in and replaces passion with survival. There is nothing wrong with you. You’re becoming. And together, we’ll name what’s been exiled, explore how identity gets reshaped in the trenches of caregiving, and discover how small acts of self-connection can start bringing you back. Today we explore:
Whether you’re hiding in the bathroom with your earbuds or taking a quiet solo walk, this episode is your mirror. Come back to yourself, one breath at a time. --- Full Transcript HERE. --- 🔔 Subscribe for more parenting insights 📢 Share this with a parent who needs to hear it! -- Want to take our relationship to the next level? 👉Here are my top Resources 👉 Link to my Newsletter 👉 Join the Reconnect with Your Partner Challenge 📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach www.markellakaplani.com
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| 01 Dec 2024 | Wondering How to Rekindle a Relationship After Children? 3 Stages to “Cure” Lack of Intimacy after Baby | Ep. 34 | 00:43:59 | |
Are you feeling a distance between you and your partner after welcoming your little one? You're not alone. In this week’s episode, we delve into the real struggles of rebuilding intimacy after baby. Parenthood brings immense joy, but it also introduces unexpected relationship changes that can leave you feeling disconnected. Join me as we uncover the journey from exhaustion to connection. We explore why intimacy after children often takes a back seat and how to navigate these parenthood challenges without feeling hurt or misunderstood. Discover practical steps for restoring closeness and reconnecting with your partner amidst sleepless nights and endless responsibilities. Learn how emotional connection and open communication in relationships can reignite the spark you thought was lost. ✨ In this episode, we explore: ❤️ How to understand and adapt to relationship changes after baby 🤗 Small but powerful ways to rebuild emotional connection 🗣️ The importance of open communication in overcoming intimacy issues 🌟 Steps to restore closeness without adding pressure 💞 Embracing a new normal in your relationship journey Don't let the joys of parenthood overshadow the love story that started it all. It's time to rekindle the flame and embrace the journey of overcoming intimacy issues together. This episode is not just a new parents guide; it's a warm, yet realistic conversation about love, understanding, and the courage to rebuild. Your relationship deserves this attention. Let's walk this path together and transform challenges into a deeper emotional connection than ever before.
Tune in and take the first step toward a stronger, more intimate relationship today. --- Full Transcript HERE. --- 📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 24 Nov 2024 | Balancing Motherhood and Career: Overcoming Mom Guilt and Finding Purpose | Work Life Balance Mom | Ep. 33 | 00:51:27 | |
Are you struggling to balance motherhood and career aspirations? You’re not alone. In this emotionally charged episode, we sit down with childbirth educator and doula, Hannah Gill, to unpack the deep identity shifts moms face. From grappling with mom guilt to redefining success, Hannah’s story speaks to anyone who has felt torn between being present for their children and pursuing their own passions. Together, we explore:
Hannah also shares her journey from experiencing a traumatic C-section to transforming that pain into a meaningful career helping other women. Her vulnerability will leave you inspired to navigate your own struggles with grace. Today, we find out: 🌟 Why balancing motherhood and career feels so overwhelming 🍼 How birth experiences can shape our identity 💔 What happens when we prioritize everyone but ourselves 💡 Practical ways to reconnect with your true self Whether you’re a mother wrestling with mom guilt, a dad seeking to understand your partner better, or someone navigating your own identity shift, this episode offers a wealth of insights. — Hannah Gill Hannah Gill is a childbirth educator, doula, and passionate advocate for empowering women through informed birth choices. Based in Indiana, she specializes in supporting women pursuing vaginal births after cesareans (VBACs) and helping them reclaim their sense of agency during the birthing process. Through her work, podcast, and educational resources, Hannah inspires women to trust their inner strength and make confident, informed decisions. Website: https://thehannahgill.com Free First 3 Steps to VBAC Guide: https://thehannahgill.com/firststeps VBAC Guide for Doulas: https://thehannahgill.com/newdoulatips Self-study version of my program VBAC Is Your Birth Right: https://thehannahgill.com/course Motherhood Flow Podcast: https://thehannahgill.com/podcast — Learn more about motherhood psychology by listening to Episode 1 on Matrescence and fatherhood psychology by listening to Episode 4 on Patrescence FREE COURSE on MATRESCENCE: https://www.markellakaplani.com/videoseries --- Full Transcript HERE. --- 📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 16 Mar 2025 | Reinvent Yourself After Parenthood: Embracing The Identity Shift | Matrescence | Paretrence | Ep. 49 | 00:14:51 | |
Have you ever caught yourself thinking, “Who even am I anymore?”
Between sleepless nights, endless responsibilities, and taking care of everyone else, you may feel like you got lost somewhere along the way. That feeling of identity loss after kids and losing yourself in motherhood /fatherhood is more common than you think—but what if the goal isn’t to go back to who you were before? What if instead, you get to redesign who you are becoming? In this episode, we’re moving beyond recognition and into action. You'll learn how to reclaim your identity after baby without parental guilt, honor both who you were and who you are becoming, and create a version of yourself that feels true. In this episode, we explore: 🔹 Why rediscovering yourself after baby doesn’t mean “going back” 🔹 What to keep from your past self & what to release 🔹 How parenthood expands you—rather than erases you 🔹 Powerful exercises to help you find yourself again You get to choose who this new version of you is. Let’s take that first step—together. 🎧 Listen now & reclaim YOU
–- 🔔 Subscribe for more parenting insights 📩 Join my [FREE] newsletter for extra support 👉 Get the [FREE] Calm Parent, Calm Child Guide 📢 Share this with a parent who needs to hear it! --- Full Transcript HERE. — The [free] reconnect with yourself calendar that I referred to: https://www.markellakaplani.com/selfconnectcalendar -- Want to take our relationship to the next level? 👉Here are my top Resources 👉 Link to my Newsletter 👉 Join the Reconnect with Your Partner Challenge 📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 30 Dec 2024 | Motherhood, Boundaries, and Breaking Generational Patterns: Identity, Anxiety, & Letting Go of Control with Gavie Remaly | Coaching Session #4 | Ep. 38 | 00:57:08 | |
In this coaching session, we explore the complexities of motherhood, identity shifts, and breaking generational patterns with Gavie Remaly, boundaries advocate and host of The Blissfully Bold Podcast. Together, we delve into the struggles working moms face, from navigating anxiety and control to balancing work, family, and self. This episode unpacks the emotional challenges of parenting, including how childhood patterns shape our current roles as parents. Gavie shares her journey of discovering "micro-journaling," a simple yet impactful tool for setting boundaries and finding clarity amidst the chaos of motherhood. Along the way, we uncover the transformative power of self-compassion, letting go of guilt, and creating a safe space for emotional growth. Whether you’re a mom seeking balance or a partner striving to understand and support, this episode offers actionable advice, relatable moments, and profound insights into building deeper connections within your family. Ways to Connect with Gavie Remaly: Podcast: The Blissfully Bold Podcast Instagram: @gavie.remaly DM her to learn more about micro-journaling and boundary-setting.
--- Full Transcript HERE. — Want to take our relationship to the next level? 👉Here are my top Resources 📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach www.markellakaplani.com
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| 09 Feb 2025 | Perfect Parent Syndrome? Attachment Theory on the Dangers of Perfect Parenting vs. Good Enough Parenting | Learn Positive Parenting Tips | Ep. 44 | 00:31:17 | |
We all want to do our best as parents, but perfect parenting might not be the gift we think it is. In fact, striving to be a perfect mother or a perfect father can actually create struggles for our kids later in life. This episode dives into why perfect parent syndrome leads to emotional dependence, low frustration tolerance, and unrealistic relationship expectations. So, what is good parenting? Research in attachment theory shows that kids don’t need us to be flawless—they need us to be real. The concept of good enough parenting, first introduced by Donald Winnicott, explains why children benefit more from good enough parenting than from a parent who never makes mistakes. The ability to repair small ruptures in relationships, rather than avoiding them altogether, builds resilience, emotional intelligence, and self-trust. In this episode, I’ll be sharing positive parenting tips to help you shift from trying to figure out how to be a perfect parent to embracing a more balanced approach. You’ll learn why letting go of perfection doesn’t mean lowering your standards but actually making space for connection, growth, and emotional security. I’ll also share a case study about a client, “Michael,” who was raised by a perfect mother. His childhood was full of warmth, attentiveness, and love—but as an adult, he struggled to form meaningful relationships because no one could measure up to that level of emotional perfection. This is why it's so important to rethink how to be a perfect mother or how to be a perfect father and instead embrace good enough parenting. If you’ve ever felt guilty for not getting everything right, this episode will help you reframe your mindset and show you how being “good enough” is actually the best thing you can do for your child. — 🔔 Subscribe for more parenting insights 📩 Join my [FREE] newsletter for extra support 👉 Get the [FREE] Calm Parent, Calm Child Guide 📢 Share this with a parent who needs to hear it! --- Full Transcript HERE. — Want to take our relationship to the next level? 👉Here are my top Resources 👉 Link to my Newsletter 👉 Join the Reconnect with Your Partner Challenge 📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 08 Dec 2024 | How to be a Great Parent: Forgive YOUR Parents Using my 5-Step Formula! | Effective Parenting | Ep. 35 | 00:43:03 | |
Do you ever feel like old wounds from your childhood and resentment toward your parents are getting in the way of you being a great parent? Many people struggle with the question of how to forgive your parents because deep inside we all know that it is a stepping stone toward effective parenting. But we are held back by our fear that letting go of the anger and grievances will act as an excuse or a permission slip for more mistreatment. In an attempt to protect us, our inner child refuses to move forward in fear of getting hurt all over again. In this episode we uncover: 🧠 How childhood experiences impact how we parent today ❤️ How forgiveness helps us parent with clarity and intention 🔑 Practical steps to break generational cycles without losing ourselves Whether you’re replaying your parents’ patterns or bending over backward to avoid them, the past can feel like an emotional weight. Forgiveness lightens that load, creating space for joy, connection, and a healthier family dynamic. 🫂 Click play to listen in as we dive into actionable steps, from acknowledging your hurt to deciding what values to keep and what to let go of. Forgiveness isn’t about your parents—it’s about you and the freedom it brings. --- Full Transcript HERE. — Want to take our relationship to the next level? 👉Here are my top Resources 📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 23 Mar 2025 | Got Pelvic Floor Pain After Birth? Uncovering Hidden Postpartum Trauma & The Effect on Our Relationship with Lynn Schulte | Ep. 50 | 00:52:50 | |
Have you ever wondered if your back pain, discomfort during intimacy, or even that nagging feeling that “something’s just off” might be rooted in your birth experience — even if it happened years ago? In today’s powerful conversation, I’m joined by Lynn Schulte, a pelvic health physical therapist with over 30 years of experience and a pioneer in recognizing what she calls the “open birthing pattern.” Together, we unpack how childbirth — even when it seems “normal” — can leave lasting, unspoken impacts on our body, emotions, and relationships. From misunderstood C-section scar pain to the quiet grief of disconnection after birth, we explore the stories that get trapped in our tissues — and how healing is always possible, no matter how long it’s been. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has given birth, loves someone who has, or wants to understand the hidden journey of postpartum recovery. 💥 Spoiler: It's never too late to heal. Today we explore:
LISTEN IN! — Full Transcript HERE — Lynn Schulte’s Links SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook Instagram YouTube Website VIDEOS How to Close the Open Birthing Pattern in the Pelvis How to Massage Your C-Section Scar TRAININGS +MORE Institute For Birth Healing Directory of Providers Center for Birth Healing Clinical Practice to set up one-on-one sessions in Person or Online Institute for Birth Healing Online Courses for Providers Confidence in Your Core, Pelvic Floor and More for MOMS -- Want to take our relationship to the next level? 🔔 Subscribe for more parenting insights 📢 Share this with a parent who needs to hear it! 👉 Here are my top Resources 👉 Link to my Newsletter 👉 Join the Reconnect with Your Partner Challenge 📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach www.markellakaplani.com
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| 21 Jul 2024 | From "It Takes a Village" to Raising Children Alone (How rigid parenting may be contributing to parental burnout) | Episode 15 | 00:30:49 | |
Remember when we had a village to support us in our parenting journey? Do you, too, wonder how the tables have turned so that we are now shamed for wanting help from our kin, being told that "It's our child, so it's our responsibility?" and "You chose this."? How did we go from "it takes a village to raise a child" to parenting in isolation? Based on a post and its respective comments on Facebook, I discuss how societal and cultural shifts toward individualism have led to the near-extinction of our support systems and the community previous generations enjoyed as parents. However, I also note how we, too, may have inadvertently pushed our village away, rejecting help and support even when it is offered, due to fear, generational trauma, rigid parenting, and egoism, thus leading to parental burnout. - Find the full transcript HERE. 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! 📲 Follow me on Instagram @markella.kaplani for more insights and updates. #ittakesavillage #parentingjourney #motherhoodislonely #selfsufficiency #independence #whereisthevillage - Relevant Resources: Motherhood Identity Intensive (waitlist) Join the 8-Week Program and Rediscover Yourself!
FREE Motherhood Coaching Session: Send an e-mail to info@markellakaplani.com with the subject line “Podcast Guesting” Journaling Prompt Questions: Find them in fuchsia pink within the full transcript HERE. Liking this? Please SHARE with a friend (or more!) and leave a REVIEW on Apple Podcasts. I appreciate it more than I can express in words! - LET'S TAKE OUR RELATIONSHIP TO THE NEXT LEVEL 😉
- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 20 Apr 2025 | Unhappy Marriage After Baby? Rebuilding Emotional Closeness in Parenthood Using Love Languages | Ep. 54 | 00:17:38 | |
What if the problem isn’t your partner… but that you’re both trying to love each other in old ways that no longer fit? In this gentle and reflective episode of The Parenthood and Relationship Podcast, we explore how relearning love is essential after parenthood — especially when the spark feels faint, but the love is still there. You may not be in crisis, but if you're feeling more like roommates in marriage than lovers, or wondering why the emotional connection after babyfeels different, you are not alone. We’ll talk about why parenthood affects marriage, how to recognize the signs of emotional disconnection, and the quiet ache of missing your partner when they’re right next to you. If you've ever thought, “I love my partner, but I don’t feel in love,” this is for you. No pressure. No perfection. Just simple, real-world tools for tired parents who want to feel close again—like micro rituals, weekly check-in questions, and using love languages in marriage as a compass, not a rulebook. It’s about building emotional intimacy slowly, kindly, and with more awareness. ✨ This week’s free journaling prompt is designed to help you tune into what kind of love you need now—not what worked before kids. Download it via markellakaplani.com/newsletter. Today we explore:
--- Full Transcript HERE. — Want to take our relationship to the next level? 👉Here are my top Resources 👉 Link to my Newsletter 👉 Join the Reconnect with Your Partner Challenge 📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) 📢 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach www.markellakaplani.com
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| 23 Jun 2024 | Balancing Motherhood and Personal Goals: How to deal with mom guilt and find fulfillment | Episode 11 | 00:36:08 | |
Does becoming a mom mean that we have to lose ourselves and our passions? 🎙️ For many of us who thought that our multi-faceted interests would fade as we stepped into motherhood on account of our deep love for our children, the fact that we can both want to be with them 24/7 while still yearning for the things that used to make us whole, can create intense internal turmoil. In today’s episode, we talk about: 👉 The lingering need for personal goals, passions, & fulfillment outside of motherhood 👉 The societal norms that villainize this need, leading to mommy guilt and shame 👉 Gentle ways to re-discover our passions & how make time for them even if we feel like an overwhelmed mom 👉 The key role that our self-fulfillment plays in the healthy development of our children
Join me so that we can normalize being multi-layered and finding balance as a mom. Together we can take steps in the direction of overcoming mom guilt! The reality of motherhood is very different than what the media and society have us believe. And it’s much more balanced and healthy like that!
🎧 Listen now and leave a review! ⬇️ Download the free guide "Calm Parent, Calm Child"
#realmotherhood #momlife #honestmotherhood #findingbalance inmotherhood #findingbalance #matrescence #ParentingTips #SelfRegulation
Find the full transcript HERE.
***Resources mentioned in the episode
Get your FREE Calm Parent, Calm Child guide Go to markellakaplani.com/calmparentcalmchild to download this gentle guide that includes practical strategies to address toddler tantrums and self-reflection prompts to help you learn to self-regulate the next time your child experiences a meltdown.
Communities and Programs to Get a Passion Project Up and Running Greece: @artemis.gavriilidou USA: @brainstorm_road —
Go to markellakaplani.com/selfconnectcalendar so that you can get this gentle guide that will help you nurture your relationship with yourself every day with a tiny action that respects your busy schedule and your mental load!!
— Journaling Prompt Questions
Find them within the full transcript HERE.
— Leave me a REVIEW on Apple Podcasts — Liking this? Please SHARE with a friend (or more!) and leave me a REVIEW on Apple Podcasts; I appreciate it more than I can express in words! --- LET'S TAKE OUR RELATIONSHIP TO THE NEXT LEVEL 😉 - Find me on Instagram: @markella.kaplani - Take the Couple’s Quiz: Is Parenthood Making or Breaking Your Relationship? markellakaplani.com/couplesquiz - Join our community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/parenthoodandrelationship/ - Visit my website for resources, quizzes, articles, and more: markellakaplani.com/ - E-mail me: info@markellakaplani.com — Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 28 Apr 2024 | How our inner child influences the way we parent | Reparenting our inner child | Episode 3 | 00:31:54 | |
In this episode, we reflect on how our changing identity and internal struggle with our inner child influence our parenting and potentially lead to us acting in ways we are not proud of despite our best intentions. Together, we explore the journey of 'reparenting your inner child,’ discussing strategies that help us resolve the deeper roots of our difficulty to show up as the parents we envision, extending compassion and forgiveness toward ourselves so that we can intuitively apply gentle parenting. We learn what it really takes to exemplify emotional regulation and self-soothing to our children and why our efforts may sometimes not bear fruit. By engaging in inner child healing exercises, like inner child journaling, we begin to manage our emotions and offer our kids the patience and gentle guidance they need. So, come listen to real-life stories and insights that might hit close to home, like how unresolved issues from our childhood can show up in our parenting. Think about it—those moments you're not so proud of? They're not just random. They're signals, calling out for a bit of self-love, self-compassion, and self-forgiveness. By understanding and nurturing our inner parent, we learn to extend compassion to ourselves, making it easier to reflect that warmth and understanding back to our kids. If you’ve ever wondered where to begin to parent yourself, this episode offers incentive and a good starting place. By the end, you’ll see how connecting with and healing your inner child doesn't just change how you react in challenging parenting moments—it transforms your relationship with your children in the most beautiful ways.
Find the full episode transcript HERE (Episode 3).
Liking this? Please SHARE with a friend (or more!) and leave me a REVIEW on Apple Podcasts; I appreciate it more than I can express in words!
--- LET'S TAKE OUR RELATIONSHIP TO THE NEXT LEVEL 😉 - Find me on Instagram: @markella.kaplani www.markellakaplani.com- Join our community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/parenthoodandrelationship/ - Visit my website for resources, quizzes, articles, and more: www.markellakaplani.com - E-mail me: info@markellakaplani.com
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Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist | |||
| 23 Feb 2025 | From Crisis to Connection: Andrea Smith on Navigating Parenting & Marriage Challenges | Ep. 46 | 00:49:28 | |
Parenting can push even the strongest marriages to their limits. In this deeply moving episode, Andrea Smith opens up about navigating parenthood stress while facing family challenges that tested her marriage connection. She shares the raw truth of what happens when one parent carries the emotional load alone—and the powerful shift that helped her and her husband reconnect. If you’ve ever felt disconnected from your partner, trapped in survival mode parenting, or unsure how to support each other through tough times, this episode is for you. Andrea describes her unique journey through matrescence, from being immersed into motherhood fully to then wondering who she is after her children healed and moved from the nest. Andrea’s story is a testament to rebuilding relationships, finding emotional resilience, and breaking free from the patterns that keep couples stuck after parenthood. 💬 Today we uncover: ✅ The silent weight of parental burnout & why sharing the load matters ✅ A game-changing mindset shift that transformed their marriage struggles ✅ Why love alone isn’t enough—and what actually makes a relationship thrive ✅ How to heal from emotional distance in relationships ✅ The unexpected role of playfulness in long-term marriage success If this episode speaks to you, be sure to join my newsletter for deeper insights & a special journaling prompt to help you apply these lessons. Sign up at MarkellaKaplani.com/newsletter 💌 — Andrea Smith is a passionate advocate for mental health and personal growth, blending her experiences as a mother, entrepreneur, and storyteller to inspire others. After an 18-year corporate career in sales, Andrea stepped away to focus on her family's needs, particularly her children's mental health challenges. Now, with her children thriving as young adults, Andrea has channeled her journey into This Way Up, a podcast dedicated to supporting parents and caregivers navigating similar struggles. Andrea is also the co-founder of CarOracle, a woman-owned business revolutionizing the car-buying process with expert guidance and personalized support. With her empathetic approach and commitment to uplifting others, Andrea creates spaces where people can find resources, resilience, and hope. Andrea’s Links: Facebook: @ListentoThisWayUp Instagram: @ListentoThisWayUp You Tube: @ThisWayUpPodcast TikTok: @ThisWayUpPodcastandrea www.caroracle.com — MARKELLA’S LINKS 🔔 Subscribe for more parenting insights 📩 Join my [FREE] newsletter for EXCLUSIVE practical tools - markellakaplani.com/newsletter 👉 Get the [FREE] Calm Parent, Calm Child Guide - markellakaplani.com/calmparentcalmchild 📢 Share this with a parent who needs to hear it! --- Full Transcript HERE. — Want to take our relationship to the next level? 👉Here are my top Resources 👉 Link to my Newsletter 👉 Join the Reconnect with Your Partner Challenge 📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach www.markellakaplani.com | |||
| 16 Feb 2025 | Rethinking Parenthood: Emotional Resilience and Balance in Parenting | Gentle Parenting | Ep 45 | 00:32:58 | |
In this episode, we explore the drastic changes in parenting styles over the years. The shift from the tough love approach of past generations to today's hyper-aware and overly-involved parenting has left many feeling emotionally drained and constantly questioning their adequacy as parents. The episode examines how to find a middle ground that allows for both parental and child development without falling into the trap of self-sacrifice or over-correcting to the point of overprotective. By shifting perspectives on guilt and self-care, parents can model a balanced and fulfilling life for their children, fostering resilience and independence without compromising their own well-being.
00:00 Why Modern Parenthood Feels Like Failure 01:31 The Evolution of Parenting Styles 03:39 The Impact of Tough Love on Our Generation 07:42 The Overcorrection: Hyper-Involved Parenting 12:43 Finding Balance in Parenting 16:22 Modeling Healthy Relationships for Our Kids 18:53 Steps to Sustainable Parenting 23:42 The Importance of Self-Care for Parents 31:31 Conclusion: You Are Enough
--- Full Transcript HERE. — Want to take our relationship to the next level? 👉Here are my top Resources 👉 Link to my Newsletter 👉 Join the Reconnect with Your Partner Challenge 📩 Get in touch with me (Instagram @markella.kaplani; website; e-mail: info@markellakaplani.com) 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! --- Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach www.markellakaplani.com
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| 04 Aug 2024 | The Compassion Gap: Why we can’t let go of our parental expectations though we can support parent friends (Mom Guilt | Dad Guilt) | Episode 17 | 00:23:56 | |
Are you struggling with mom guilt or dad guilt and finding it hard to be kind to yourself even though you are kind to other parent friends? In this episode, I dive deep into:
🔹 The roots of parental guilt and why it persists 🔹 How societal expectations shape our self-image 🔹 The powerful role of the inner critic and how it formed 🔹 Practical steps to embrace self-compassion 🔹 The journey of reparenting and inner child healing
Tune in to uncover the profound impact of self-compassion on your parenting journey and learn how to healthily lower the volume of your inner critic. Your children deserve the best version of you, and so do you! -- Resources and Links Mentioned > FREE Self-Connect Calendar| > FREE Guide: Calm Parent Calm Child > (Re)Discover Your Identity in Motherhood [waitlist] > Get in touch with me (Instagram; website; e-mail) > Leave a Podcast Review HERE 😀 > FREE Motherhood Coaching Session: Send an e-mail to info@markellakaplani.com with the subject line “Podcast Guesting” > Join our community on Facebook: Parenthood and Relationship Group ____________________________________________________ JOURNALING EXERCISE: Write a letter to your inner critic and express your gratitude for the fact that it had to play this harsh role in order to make sure that you are well off, that you are accepted, that you're part of the tribe, that you survive.
And then in a second paragraph, tell your inner critic that you forgive them for having to be this harsh with you, for using this strategy in order to get through to you, even though it was very painful.
And then recognize how painful it may have been for your inner critic to have to take on this role and end the letter with the main theme being that your inner critic can let go of this role now; that they can be who they want to be, that they can contribute to your well being in a different manner because they no longer have to protect you in this way.
Let them know that you are stepping up as the healthy adult to reparent and protect your inner child and that your inner critic doesn't have to step in. Reassure it that you're there. Explain how you're going to do things differently and welcome the inner critic in your life in a different capacity this time.
Now this is a profound exercise and it is very, very impactful, but you're not going to see results overnight. So take it one step at a time. Start noticing the little things that your inner critic is able to let go of. Note them down, and continue journaling. And in time, as you keep at this, you're going to see how your inner critic's voice will gradually lower and lower. ____________________________________________________ Find the full transcript HERE. 🎧 Listen, share, and leave a review! Your support means the world! 📲 Follow me on Instagram @markella.kaplani for more insights and updates. ____________________________________________________ Markella Kaplani, M.A. Clinical-Counseling Psychologist Parenthood & Relationship Coach Matrescence Coach, Facilitator, & Activist www.markellakaplani.com | |||