Join us with Anna Gainey, Secretary of State for Children and Youth and MP for Notre-Dame-de-Grâce—Westmount, Montreal, as she shares her journey balancing motherhood and politics. Anna discusses early experiences that shaped her leadership, the realities of parenthood in political decision-making, childcare solutions, and how she decompresses after challenging days. She also offers inspiring advice for mothers ready to lead, create change, and step confidently into spaces like politics.

In this conversation, Ashley Kielbratowski discusses the stress and challenges of preparing for a new baby, particularly focusing on the importance of timelines and family support in getting their home ready before the arrival of their child. She shares her experiences and strategies for managing stress during this transitional period.

• Navigating pregnancy can bring about significant stress.

• Using humor, like the "baby card," can ease stressful situations.

• Preparation can alleviate some of the anxiety associated with pregnancy.

• Nothing fits me. Dealing with our changing bodies isn't easy.

Follow: @themomexistence

www.themomexistence.com

Products:

Blooming Belly Shampoo: https://www.amazon.ca/ATTITUDE-Blooming-Hypoallergenic-Natural-Pregnancy-Safe/dp/B07PP38QDY?pd_rd_w=phl1x&content-id=amzn1.sym.2e4c9841-08fc-49e8-b716-e430a7b48de4&pf_rd_p=2e4c9841-08fc-49e8-b716-e430a7b48de4&pf_rd_r=TSHYXB5Y0P8V2P4KYRET&pd_rd_wg=ocMX3&pd_rd_r=e52239ed-7f81-4593-9151-80958d9d6cd9&pd_rd_i=B07PP38QDY&psc=1&ref_=pd_bap_d_grid_rp_0_7_pr_t

Skincare: https://thecureskincare.ca

In this episode, Vickie Mastrapas opens up about her personal struggles with self-image and style — from showing up to dinners in leggings and feeling uncomfortable, to discovering the power of personal styling as a path to confidence and authenticity. We talk about how fashion isn't just about what you wear, but how it makes you feel. Vickie shares how finding her own sense of style became a journey of self-acceptance, self-expression, and learning to show up in a way that feels true to who she is.

Takeaways:

• Fashion should reflect who you are

• Self-acceptance is the foundation of confidence

• Social settings can amplify insecurities — and that's okay

• Finding your style is a journey, not a destination

• Feeling good in what you wear changes everything

Follow: @themomexistence @styleandweekends

Learn More or work with Vickie: www.styleandweekends.com

#TBT this week, we are flashing back to my FIRST episode! I am joined by pelvic floor physiotherapist Stephanie Brown, who supported me throughout my pregnancy and postpartum journey. In this episode, we dive into the changes your body undergoes and the challenges your pelvic floor faces during this time. We discuss important signs to watch for, why it's crucial to wait six weeks before resuming sex and physical activities, and much more.

Navigating the postpartum period can be both physically and emotionally demanding, as even routine tasks may feel overwhelming in the wake of childbirth. This discussion addresses the pressures of 'bounce back culture,' which often sets unrealistic expectations for new mothers. We explore the complexities of recovery and wellness after childbirth, shedding light on the emotional and physical challenges many face. Steph offers valuable insights on how to foster a healthier recovery during this crucial time, helping to reshape our collective understanding of postpartum well-being.

Remember you're doing amazing. <3

Learn more: https://momsquadphysio.ca

Follow: @stephaniebrownpfpt

This week I am joined by the lovely Dr. Sabrina Romanoff. We discuss the challenges of motherhood, particularly the feelings of isolation and loneliness that many new mothers experience. She emphasizes the importance of building community and finding connections with others who understand the struggles of motherhood. The discussion also touches on the impact of social media on self-worth and the pressure to meet societal expectations as a parent. Dr. Romanoff encourages mothers to embrace vulnerability, seek help, and prioritize their own identities alongside their roles as caregivers.

Thanks for listening! And remember, you're doing amazing.

Learn more:

In this episode, I sit down with Connie McInnes, founder of R Studios, to chat about motherhood, ambition, and running a business. Connie opens up about her journey growing a fitness brand while raising kids, and the ups and downs that come with it. They talk about morning routines, how becoming a mom shifts your priorities, and why carving out quality time with family matters. Connie also highlights the importance of self-care, leaning on community, and normalizing the idea of kids being part of adult spaces. With a brand new studio opening in Bedford, she shares how her perspective on family and work has evolved—and why creating family-friendly spaces is so important to her.

Learn more: https://www.rstudios.co/

Follow: @rstudiosns @theconniemae

In this episode of The Mom Existence podcast, host Ashley Kielbratowski welcomes Renee Reina, the host of the Mom Room podcast, for an engaging conversation about the realities of modern motherhood. They dive into Renee's journey into motherhood, the emotional complexities of early parenthood, and the challenges of postpartum recovery. Together, they explore the pressures and guilt that often accompany being a working mom, the importance of authenticity, and the value of community—whether in fitness, parenting, or content creation. The conversation also touches on practical tips for traveling with kids, the collaborative nature of podcasting, and the joy of connecting over shared experiences, from reality TV to the fulfillment that comes from supporting other moms.

In this enlightening conversation, I speak with Dr. Molly and Michelle from The Vessel Village about the transformative journey of motherhood. We explore the importance of community, intuition, and creativity in navigating the challenges of being a mother. Our discussion emphasizes the need for women to reconnect with their inner selves, rewrite old narratives, and embrace their creative potential. We also highlight the societal pressures that mothers face and the significance of authenticity and vulnerability in fostering genuine connections. Through their shared experiences, Dr. Molly and Michelle provide valuable insights and practical advice for mothers seeking empowerment and support.

Learn More: https://thevessel.life/