Betches Moms
92 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 1 year ago - ★★★★★ - 412 ratingsThey’re expensive, sometimes annoying and the best thing that’s ever happened to us. But there’s so much more to being a mom that no one really talks about. Betches Moms is a podcast that deals with all the real sh*t that happens - like what to do when your toddler figures out TikTok, the fact that the baby’s not the only one who has to wear a diaper after birth, or your mother-in-law constantly criticizing you for eating carbs or drinking coffee. Relax, it’s decaf. Hosts Aleen Dreksler and Brittany Levine share stories and insights, interview guests, and have honest conversations about what it’s really like being, and becoming, a mom. They may not be experts (that’s what the expert guests are for) but they have plenty of opinions and life experience to share. Each week they answer questions about the sides of pregnancy and motherhood that everyone experiences, but you rarely hear about. You know, the moments in between those perfect looking Insta posts. So get ready to lock yourself in the bathroom (or wherever else you hide from your kids) and listen to this podcast. Because you’ll literally never be alone again.
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Episodes
WTF Is Newborn Gut Deficiency? Ft. Dr. Tanya Altmann
October 25, 2021 04:00 - 50 minutesThis week. Brittany is joined by pediatrician, best-selling author, and medical correspondent, Dr. Tanya Altmann to chat all about infant gut health. To start, Dr. Tanya shares her background and focus in preventative health, nutrition, and sleep. She discusses signs of newborn gut deficiency in babies, what to ask your pediatrician if you see those signs, and steps parents can take to protect their baby's gut microbiome. They get into some practical nutrition tips, common allergies in babies...
What It's Really Like Returning To Work After Having A Baby
October 18, 2021 04:00 - 51 minutesIt's been two weeks since Brittany has officially returned for maternity leave and this week, she is joined once again by Shira Dreksler for this special welcome back episode. To start, Brittany shares how she's feeling and what's been going on now that she's back to work. They also chat about Brittany's difficulty with breastfeeding, parenting without Noah in the house, and getting into that postpartum slump. Shira offers some advice on what she's learned after a year of returning back to wo...
Breaking Down What Paid Family Leave Actually Means
October 11, 2021 04:00 - 47 minutesAleen is joined by her sister-in-law & Director of Talent and Community at Betches, Shira Dreksler, to answer all your questions on paid family leave. To start, they discuss what working moms should know about maternity leave, what moms are entitled to, and the right questions to ask about during a job interview. Next, they share their thoughts on how f*cked up paid family in the U.S. really is, and even the stigma with men and paternity leave in the workplace. Then, it’s time for listener qu...
Are We Finally Getting National Paid Family Leave? Ft. Laura Chambers And Annie Sartor
October 04, 2021 04:00 - 32 minutesThis week, Brittany is joined by Laura Chambers, CEO of Willow, and Annie Sartor, Senior Director of Business Partnership at PL+US (Paid Leave for the US) to talk all about paid family leave, why it is so critical, and how Willow is helping to empower moms through their advocacy and product. They start off discussing the upcoming vote in the Senate that will decide the future of paid leave in the US, and how we can all get involved to make sure it is passed. They also get into the steps that ...
We Need More Feminist Dads Ft. Jordan Shapiro
September 27, 2021 04:00 - 58 minutesThis week, Aleen is joined by two-time author and first dad on Betches Moms, Jordan Shapiro. To start, they chat about his story as a dad and stepdad, before diving into his newest book Father Figure: How To Be a Feminist Dad. Jordan shares his reason for writing his book, the meaning behind being a “feminist dad”, and why so many books about parenting are about what it’s like to be a mother. Next, they discuss navigating the world of technology with kids, how technology affects parenting, an...
Where To Start If I Want To Adopt? Ft. Sami Albert
September 20, 2021 04:00 - 47 minutesAleen and Brittany are joined by Pregnancy Counselor and Clinical Support Specialist, Sami Albert, to talk all about the adoption process for adoptive parents and birth parents. To kick off, Sami shares how she works with birth parents to make sure they are informed throughout the entire process of adoption. They talk about the first steps to take once you know adoption is the right choice for you, the different pathways to adoption, and some of the disqualifying pieces for adoptive parents. ...
Kristen Bell Talks Kids, Curse Words, & More
September 13, 2021 14:37 - 22 minutesBrittany is joined by actors Kristen Bell and Jackie Tohn (screaming!) to talk about parenting, the importance of music in a child’s life, and their new animated series Do, Re & Mi. They start by telling us how they created the show, including why they wanted to give children a new way to learn to love music. They also explain how their friendship and time spent with Kristen’s children impacted the show’s creation. Then Brittany asks whether or not Kristen’s own kids appreciate how cool it is...
Is There Really A Right Time To Have A Baby? Ft. Sami Sage
September 06, 2021 04:00 - 41 minutesAleen is joined by Betches co-founder Sami Sage to talk about her decision to freeze her embryos. They chat about waiting to have kids, fears around parenting and actually being “ready”, and how much our lives really change after starting a family. They also discuss when she started thinking about her fertility options, and the actual costs of embryo freezing. Sami shares more on the process so far, including her first consultation, genetic testing, and ultimately choosing embryo freezing ove...
Toys Vs. Playing Alone: Which Is Really Better For My Kid?
August 30, 2021 04:00 - 45 minutesToday, Aleen and Brittany are joined by parent & child educator and play expert Jennie Monness (aka Mo’Mommies). They start off with a conversation about why Mo’Mommies was created, how Jennie helps educate new parents on play, and the real struggles of being a new mom of two. They chat about the importance of promoting healthy child development, why it really matters, and where parents can start. Plus, they discuss ways to encourage independent play and why you might want to start teaching y...
Aleen’s Due Date Is Here: Things You Don’t Expect During Your Third Trimester
August 23, 2021 04:00 - 40 minutesAleen and Brittany are back together once again, and with only a few days to go before Aleen’s due date they’re talking all about the third trimester. First, Aleen shares the things she never expected to experience during her third trimester, including some of the biggest challenges along the way. Plus, she explains what it’s like dealing with the overwhelming anxiety of not feeling like herself and taking steps to enjoy the rest of her pregnancy. Finally, it’s time for a No Mom Guilt, where ...
Brittany’s Birth Story & Being A Mom Of 2
August 16, 2021 04:00 - 49 minutesThis week, Brittany makes her much-anticipated return to the show with an update on her birth experience what it’s like to become a mother of two (with the arrival of her new baby boy, Jack). To start, Brittany walks us through her second time in labor, with details on just how different it was from the first time around. Plus, she shares a story from the hospital that’s almost too embarrassing to believe. Brittany also tells us about the postpartum challenges she’s faced including breastfeed...
How Doulas Can Help You During Your Pregnancy Ft. Sabia Wade, The Black Doula
August 09, 2021 04:00 - 48 minutesThis week, Brittany and Aleen host Sabia Wade, aka The Black Doula, to talk all about how doulas can impact the birthing process from beginning to end. They start off with some background on how Sabia got involved in her role before diving into all the details of how doulas can help make the birth a breeze. They also get into how doulas can fill in the gaps that the medical system can leave open for expecting mothers, and how they can make sure you’re advocating for yourself through it all. T...
How Do I Introduce My Dog To My Baby? Ft. Dog Meets Baby
August 02, 2021 04:39 - 46 minutesBrittany and Aleen are joined by Dominika Knossalla, certified dog trainer and founder of Dog Meets Baby, to talk all about preparing your dog for a newborn baby’s arrival. They begin with a conversation about the most common fears parents have when making the introduction, including some practical tips for a smooth interaction. Then they jump into a discussion on some of the signs to look for if dogs are in distress, how to deal with an overly affectionate dog, and why distancing before the ...
WTF Is A Pelvic Floor & How To Strengthen It Ft. Jemila Medley
July 26, 2021 11:38 - 41 minutesOn this week’s episode, Brittany and Aleen are joined by prenatal exercise specialist Jemila Medley to talk all about an under-discussed topic: the pelvic floor. To start, Jemila talks about what it’s like being a first time mom, getting into occupational therapy, and how she has helped moms to improve functional performance through exercise. They break down what pelvic floor therapy is, how you can benefit from it, and what to expect at a pelvic floor therapy appointment. She also shares som...
When Balancing Motherhood And Womanhood Feels Lonely Ft. Shanicia Boswell
July 19, 2021 04:00 - 40 minutesThis week Aleen and Brittany are joined by Shanicia Boswell, best selling author and founder of Black Moms Blog. They begin with a conversation about Shanicia’s journey, including her time as a stay-at-home mom, navigating through motherhood while homeless, and how she was able to turn her blog into a successful business. Plus, she shares how she started Black Moms Blog to help positively reflect black motherhood. They also chat about how the birth experiences is different for black mothers, ...
Understanding Prenatal Nutrition Ft. Ryann Kipping
July 12, 2021 04:00 - 53 minutesIn this week’s episode, Aleen and Brittany are joined by Ryann Kipping, also known as The Prenatal Nutritionist, to talk about why nutrition is one the most important things to a healthy pregnancy. They start by diving into why it is important for women to change their diets before getting pregnant, as well as the foods you should incorporate and avoid during pregnancy. Next, they talk about dietary supplements, why they matter, and tips for choosing the best prenatal vitamins. Finally, it’s ...
Pandemic Pregnancy, Nursing Tips, And Being A Working Mom
July 05, 2021 04:00 - 50 minutesAleen is back this week with her sister-in-law & colleague, Shira Dreksler, to chat about being a working mother of two and her own nursing experience. To start, Shira tells us about being pregnant during the height of the pandemic (including how she had to go to the hospital by herself), what it’s really like having your water break, and how parenting changes after having a second child. Next, they dive into a discussion all about nursing, with tips for when you’ll actually need a lactation ...
How To Let Go Of Working Mom Guilt (Ft. Workin’ Moms’ Catherine Reitman)
June 28, 2021 04:00 - 33 minutesThis week, Aleen sits down with actress Catherine Reitman to chat all about her comedy series Workin’ Moms and what it’s like to be a real-life working mom herself. To kick off, Catherine dives into where she drew her inspiration when creating the show, including some things she learned about herself along the way. She also shares her experience with postpartum depression, taking the first steps to ask for help, and finding a balance transitioning back to work. Plus, they also talk about what...
How To Not Feel Mom Guilt When Setting Boundaries Ft. Samantha Jade
June 21, 2021 04:00 - 45 minutesAleen and Brittany are joined by Samantha Jade, master instructor at SoulCycle and soon-to-be mom to share her story through pregnancy and talk about her experience with endometriosis. They start with her journey from being a first-time rider to auditioning to become an instructor, and how she climbed her way up. She shares her experience riding through her pregnancy, and how she knew when it was time to step off the bike. Samantha has also been through a serious back injury, and shares her s...
How The Hell Do I Dress For My New Body? Ft. Jenny Greenstein
June 16, 2021 04:00 - 46 minutesAleen and Brittany are back and this week, they host wardrobe and soul stylist Jenny Greenstein, Founder of Your Soul Style, to breakdown styling for moms and her personal journey as a mom. They break down how important style is to your personal wellbeing and mood, and how taking the time to can dramatically improve your mindset. Then, Jenny gives a few tips on how to approach clothing and styling from an investment standpoint, and what to keep in mind as your body changes throughout your pre...
What To Really Buy Before Your Baby’s Arrival
June 14, 2021 04:00 - 57 minutesBrittany and Aleen are back this week to talk about nursery and baby essentials to complete your space before the baby arrives. To start, Brittany checks in about her pregnancy with the baby coming soon and how her nursery is coming along so far. Next, they dive into their nursery must-haves, including essentials for your baby’s changing station and why you might want to consider a glider over a rocking chair. Comfort is key people. Plus, they talk about what to look for when choosing a baby ...
How To Deal With Your Kid’s Tantrums Without Throwing One Yourself Ft. Dr Becky
June 09, 2021 04:00 - 49 minutesAleen and Brittany are joined by Dr. Becky Kennedy, to talk about the all-too-familiar topic of temper tantrums and trying (sometimes unsuccessfully) to manage your kids’ emotions. They start off with an explanation of Dr. Becky’s gentle approach to parenting and how to try it yourself. Next, they share practical tips for being an assertive parent, when being restrictive is too much, and how to build a strong relationship with your child. Then Dr. Becky breaks down the nature of child tantrum...
Why We All Need To Stop Trying To “Bounce Back” After Pregnancy
June 07, 2021 04:00 - 53 minutesThis week, Brittany and Aleen are back to talk all about body image during pregnancy and postpartum, as well as the emotional and physical changes that come with this new stage of life. They start off by sharing their own experiences of people commenting on their pregnant bodies and feeling judged for it. Plus, they chat about why body comments are actually toxic and harmful for pregnant women. Next, they talk about reality of postpartum body image and the pressure to “bounce back” and quickl...
When Should You See A Fertility Specialist? Ft. Dr. Tiffany Jones
June 02, 2021 04:00 - 48 minutesIn today’s episode, Brittany and Aleen are joined by fertility and fibroid specialist Dr. Tiffany Jones to talk about starting your fertility journey, treatment options, and preparing for pregnancy. They start off with a conversation about why fertility is so hard to talk about and how we can normalize conversations around fertility. Next, they chat about when we should start thinking about our own fertility and how to start planning our reproductive journeys. Then, they discuss the differenc...
Things To Consider When Buying Maternity Clothes
May 31, 2021 04:00 - 53 minutesIn today’s episode, Aleen and Brittany are back to talk all about maternity clothing, the best options for maternity clothes, and how to feel both comfortable and stylish. They also talk about how to feel good on the inside and outside. To kick off, Brittany shares her experience with buying maternity wear during her first pregnancy and some of her must-have pieces throughout the year. Next, they chat about what types of bras and underwear are most comfortable during pregnancy, as well when t...
Fitness, Body Image, and Self Care During Pregnancy Ft. Megan Roup
May 26, 2021 04:00 - 45 minutesIn today’s episode, Aleen and Brittany are joined by Megan Roup, Founder of Sculpt Society to talk about fitness, body image, and looking after yourself both physically and mentally during pregnancy. They start off with a conversation about Megan’s struggles during her pregnancy and why we should normalize conversations around not enjoying pregnancy. Next, they talk about dealing with body changes during pregnancy and how to overcome negative self talk. Then, Megan shares one of her favorite ...
How To Tell If You're In Labor
May 24, 2021 04:00 - 51 minutesOn this week’s episode, Brittany and Aleen are back to talk all about childbirth and delivery. They start with a conversation about Britt’s recent baby-moon and the importance of unplugging from work. Plus, Aleen shares some updates on her upcoming move and how the packing has been going while being pregnant. Next, Britt shares what her first birth experience was like, including the signs of early labor, how long she pushed for, and her close experience to getting a C-section. Then she shares...
How To Have Open Conversations With Your Kids Ft. Busy Phillips
May 19, 2021 04:00 - 57 minutesThis week, Aleen and Brittany and joined by actress Busy Phillips to talk about what motherhood has been like having two kids, and how parenting has changed for her over the past years. They start off with a conversation about Busy’s surprise reunion with her mother after a year of separation due to the pandemic. She also shares what it was like having the sex talk with her child and the moment her 12-year old child, Birdie, came out to her. They discuss the importance of having open conversa...
Nanny, Daycare, Or Au Pair?
May 17, 2021 04:00 - 50 minutesOn today’s episode Brittany and Aleen are talking all about choosing between hiring a nanny or finding a daycare. They start with a conversation about experiencing the dreaded pregnancy-congestion, and why it’s so hard to figure out what you can and cannot take to treat it. Then they give us the rundown on how you go about picking a nanny, or searching for the right daycare, should your family circumstances demand it. Plus, they explain exactly what an Au Pair does and whether or not hiring o...
How To Keep Your Sex Life Healthy After Kids Ft. Emmalee Bierly, LMFT
May 12, 2021 04:00 - 57 minutesAleen and Brittany are joined by Emmalee Bierly, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, to talk all about sex with your partner after having kids. They start with a conversation about how you know you’re ready to start having sex after giving birth, not just physically but also emotionally. They talk about bringing the unconscious elements of your relationship into the open and having an honest conversation about how you’re feeling about sex. Emmalee shares some practical techniques for gett...
How Much Screen Time Is Too Much?
May 10, 2021 04:00 - 45 minutesBrittany and Aleen start the show with a conversation about limiting your child’s screen time and setting reasonable boundaries without becoming a perfectionist. Aleen tells us what she expects her approach will be to screen time, and Brittany explains how her view on putting an iPad in your kid’s hands has changed over time. Plus, they discuss the urge to always keep the food clean and organic, but why there must be room for exceptions. Then a listener writes in to ask when you know you’re r...
What’s The Safest Car Seat? Ft. The Car Seat Lady
May 05, 2021 04:00 - 42 minutesToday’s episode is all about finding the right car seat for your baby, so Brittany and Aleen are joined by none other than “The Car Seat Lady” herself, pediatrician and nationally certified child passenger safety instructor Dr. Alisa Baer. They start with a conversation about what qualifies a car seat as being safe, and how to go about choosing the right type for your baby. At 15:00 Dr. Baer explains the different anchoring and tethering methods available, and how that plays into your decisio...
Is A Baby-Moon Worth Going On?
May 03, 2021 04:00 - 48 minutesAleen and Brittany are back and talking about treating yourself to a well-deserved vacation during pregnancy. Aleen tells us what she did on her recent baby-moon, how she kept from overheating, and what it takes to make it through an airport at 20 weeks. Brittany offers an update on moving Oliver to his “big boy bed” and how she managed to complete the process with the help of his ‘loveys’. Then a listener writes in with a Dear Betches Moms email all about introducing a newborn baby to a hous...
How To Spot Signs Of Postpartum Depression And Anxiety Ft. Dr. Pooja Lakshmin
April 28, 2021 04:00 - 36 minutesToday, Brittany and Aleen are joined by perinatal psychiatrist Dr. Pooja Lakshmin to talk about anxiety and depression during pregnancy and motherhood. They explain what exactly a perinatal therapist does, how Dr. Lakshmin got into the field, and what she does in her work with moms. They discuss postpartum anxiety and depression, just how common they really are, and what your options may be for treatment. They also explain how normal it is to experience intrusive thoughts once the baby has ar...
When Do You Move Your Toddler To A Big Kid Bed?
April 26, 2021 04:00 - 31 minutesAleen are Brittany are back and start the week with a few updates on how their pregnancies are going. Brittany gets into how she’s monitoring the baby’s movements as she enters her third trimester, and what you can look out for at that stage. Next, Aleen talks about her upcoming anatomy scan as she hits the 20-week mark. Brittany also talks about transitioning her son to his “Big Boy Bed,” when she decided he was ready, and how’s he adapting to the big switch. They play a game of “What The F*...
How To Sleep Train Without Using Cry-It-Out Ft. @sleepandthecity
April 21, 2021 04:00 - 43 minutesToday’s episode is all about sleep training your baby, so Aleen and Brittany invite sleep expert Lauren Olson (@sleepandthecity) to share all the secrets for getting your child to sleep soundly. They start with a conversation about why sleep is so important for children (and parents) in early development, especially when it comes to health and temperament. They discuss the various methods for sleep training, why the cry-it-out method may not be right for you, and how napping plays into your s...
How To Build A Budget For Your Baby
April 19, 2021 04:00 - 45 minutesThis week, Aleen are Brittany are back and start with some personal updates! Aleen tells us about her latest sonogram experience and how relieving it felt to see the baby, and Brittany discusses the results of her glucose test and what she learned from the whole experience. Then, they dive into a Dear Betches Moms email from a listener who is wondering how to tell if she is financially prepared to have a baby. They offer their thoughts on what big expenses to keep in mind as you build a budge...
Should I Get The Vaccine If I’m Pregnant? Ft. Jennifer Ashton
April 14, 2021 04:00 - 35 minutesOn this episode, Aleen and Brittany are joined by board-certified Ob-Gyn and ABC Chief Medical Correspondent Dr. Jennifer Ashton to talk all about the Covid vaccine and pregnancy. The start off talking about the vaccine itself, what we know about potential risks, and when to get the vaccine if you decide to do so while pregnant. They also talk about what factors to consider when choosing whether to get it, and how to ask the right questions so you make the best decision for yourself. To end t...
Am I Doing Enough To Prepare For The Baby?
April 12, 2021 04:00 - 44 minutesAleen and Brittany start things off with updates on how their bodies are faring in their respective stages or pregnancy. Brittany talks about her upcoming Glucose Test and the possibility of having gestational diabetes, including a few symptoms that could point towards that diagnosis. Then they dive into a conversation how your eating habits change during pregnancy, sometimes in unexpected ways. Next, they share a listener-submitted Embarrassing Story Of The Week featuring a hilarious mixup a...
Can I Switch Doctors Mid-Pregnancy?
April 07, 2021 04:00 - 41 minutesHosts Aleen Dreksler and Brittany Levine are back and start the episode with a conversation about where kids learn all that defiant language you certainly never taught them. Next, Aleen shares an Embarrassing Story of the Week all about getting advice for conceiving from her OB-GYN mother. Then they play a game of “What the F*ck Did You Just Say” featuring some boob-related kid quotes. Aleen tells us about finding out she’s having a girl and wonders out loud: how do you even figure out how to...
We’re Having A Podcast Ft. Rachel Bilson
April 05, 2021 04:00 - 39 minutesOn the first ever episode of Betches Moms, hosts Aleen Dreksler and Brittany Levine start the show with a conversation about the two of them being pregnant at the same time during a pandemic. Then they’re joined by actress Rachel Bilson to talk about her new podcast “Welcome to the OC Bitches” and what it’s like to raise a six year old as a working actress. They discuss what it’s like for a child to start virtual kindergarten, how she handles co-parenting and whether or not Bilson’s daughter ...
Coming Soon - Betches Moms (Trailer)
March 01, 2021 18:50 - 19 secondsBetches Moms with hosts Aleen Dreksler and Brittany Levine starts April 5th, 2021! Follow us now on Spotify or subscribe on Apple podcasts to be the first to hear it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices