Mamahood After Trauma

Rewriting Your Nervous Systems Story for Peaceful Parenting

Have you ever felt like your past is silently shaping your present, especially in the way you parent? As mamas healing from trauma, we often carry invisible burdens that can resurface in unexpected ways when we're faced with the challenges of motherhood.
In this raw and honest episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on what trauma really means and how it impacts our journey as mothers. It's not just about the big, dramatic events we often associate with trauma. Sometimes, it's the subtle, everyday experiences that leave lasting imprints on our nervous systems.
Understanding Trauma's Hidden Impact
Through personal stories and hard-won insights, I'll guide you to recognize:
How trauma can manifest in seemingly "normal" parenting struggles
The surprising ways our bodies hold onto past experiences
Why you might react intensely to your child's behavior (hint: it's not about them)
From Survival Mode to Thriving
If you've ever found yourself reacting in ways that left you feeling guilty or ashamed, know that you're not alone. I'll share:
Why these reactions are often rooted in past experiences, not current reality
How to start recognizing your triggers and trauma responses
Practical steps to begin calming your nervous system in challenging moments
Embracing Your Journey to Healing
Remember, mama: you're not broken, and you're not a bad mother. You're carrying a heavy load, but there's hope and healing ahead.
I'll introduce you to tools and resources that can help you:
Reconnect with your children during difficult moments
Build resilience and self-compassion
Create a path forward that honors your past while embracing your present
Are you ready to start mending the past so you can find peace in your motherhood journey? Listen now and take the first step towards understanding and healing your trauma responses.
And don't forget to grab your free Unlocking Peace guide – your first step towards creating calm and managing triggers with ease. The link is waiting for you below 👇🏻👉 Download it for free today: https://freebie.mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/guideBreaking Free Waitlist here:
books.mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/waitlist Want to be a guest on Mamahood After Trauma? Send Emily Cleghorn a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/riseandshinewithemilyc 

Nurturing Emotional Safety When Your Own Feelings Are Big

Have you ever found yourself struggling to create emotional safety for your child while grappling with your own unresolved trauma? As trauma-surviving mamas, we often face the challenge of helping our little ones navigate big feelings when we're still learning to manage our own.
In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with Jenny Hornby, a licensed counselor and fellow mama, to explore the delicate balance of healing ourselves while nurturing our children's emotional well-being. Jenny shares her insights from both professional experience and personal motherhood journey, offering a compassionate perspective on this common struggle.
Embracing Imperfection: The Key to Stronger Attachments
Jenny reveals a surprising truth that might just ease your mama guilt: perfect parenting isn't the goal. In fact, she explains how making mistakes, owning them, and repairing the relationship actually builds stronger attachments with our children. This revelation can be incredibly freeing for those of us striving to break generational cycles.
Practical Strategies for Emotional Regulation
• Acknowledge and validate both your emotions and your child's
• Create moments of connection through play and undivided attention
• Carve out essential time for self-reflection and nervous system regulation
• Practice the art of sincere apology and relationship repair
The Power of Small, Consistent Steps
If you're feeling overwhelmed by the healing journey ahead, Jenny's encouraging words will resonate deeply. She emphasizes that even small, consistent actions can make a profound difference in both your life and your child's.
"Whatever small thing they can do is going to make a big difference as they do it consistently," Jenny reminds us. Whether it's 20 minutes of quiet reflection, intentional playtime, or practicing apologies, these small steps add up to significant change.
Are you ready to approach your healing journey with renewed compassion and practical tools? This episode offers a gentle reminder that you're not alone in this process. By tuning in, you'll gain valuable insights to help you create a more emotionally safe environment for both yourself and your children.
Remember, mama: your commitment to growth is already making a difference. Let's continue this journey together, one small step at a time.Connect with Jenny- http://msjennybooks.com/
🎁 Ready to break free from the chaos and unlock peace in your motherhood journey?
Start with my free guide, Unlocking Peace, designed to help you take the first step toward calm and connection.
👉 Download it for free today: https://freebie.mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/guide
 
Want to be a guest on Mamahood After Trauma? Send Emily Cleghorn a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/riseandshinewithemilyc 

Reclaiming Your Identity as a Mama Mending from Trauma

Have you ever felt like you're trying to heal from past trauma while simultaneously navigating the challenges of motherhood? It's a journey that can often feel isolating and overwhelming, leaving you wondering if you're doing enough for your children while still tending to your own wounds.
As a mama who has walked this path, I understand the weight of carrying your own story while striving to create a peaceful home for your little ones. That's why I'm thrilled to share some exciting news with you – my upcoming book, "Breaking Free: Parenting in the Midst of Trauma Recovery."
In this intimate episode, I pull back the curtain and reveal the deeply personal reasons behind writing this book. You'll hear about:
The Moment That Sparked It All
The night I lay in bed, feeling completely drained and questioning how to heal while still mothering
Why I knew I had to create the resource I wished I'd had during my own healing journey
A Book Born from Real Experience
How I've poured every raw, messy, and beautiful part of my journey into these pages
Why this isn't just another parenting or trauma recovery book, but a guide for mamas in the thick of both
Who This Book is For
Feeling overwhelmed and wondering if you're doing enough
Longing to feel safe in your own skin
Ready to create a life that's truly yours, not just a reaction to past trauma
Determined to find your power and cultivate peace at home, even as you continue healing
What's Coming Next
Exciting pre-order bonuses and giveaways to support your growth
How to join my launch team and get an advanced reader copy
Remember, mama, you're not alone in this journey. You're not just surviving – you're mending. And you're so worthy of the peaceful life you're building.
Are you ready to take the next step in your healing journey while showing up as the mother you want to be? Stay tuned for more sneak peeks, and make sure to follow me on Instagram (@emily.mamahoodaftertrauma) or join my email list to be the first to know when pre-orders open.
Together, we're mending the past so we can mother in peace.
🎁 Ready to break free from the chaos and unlock peace in your motherhood journey?
Start with my free guide, Unlocking Peace, designed to help you take the first step toward calm and connection.
👉 Download it for free today: https://freebie.mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/guide
 
Want to be a guest on Mamahood After Trauma? Send Emily Cleghorn a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/riseandshinewithemilyc 

Finding Your Power in Parenting After Childhood Trauma

Have you ever found yourself caught in a cycle of yelling at your kids, feeling guilty, then trying to make up for it with gifts or treats? As a trauma-surviving mama, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to break free from these patterns that often stem from our own childhood experiences.
In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with MegAnne Ford, a parenting coach who specializes in helping families navigate the complexities of childhood development and safe caregiving practices. MegAnne shares her powerful journey from preschool teacher to trauma-informed coach, offering invaluable insights for parents struggling to manage their triggers and create a calmer home environment.
The Path to Becoming a Trauma-Informed Caregiver
MegAnne's story begins in a preschool classroom where she first learned the transformative power of creating an equitable space that meets both children's and adults' needs. This experience planted the seeds for her future work in trauma recovery and parenting support.
Through her own journey of self-reflection and healing, MegAnne discovered:
The importance of recognizing and managing our own emotions as caregivers
How our past experiences shape our reactions to our children's behavior
The critical role of safety and connection in effective parenting
Breaking the Yell-Guilt-Gift Cycle
One of the most powerful insights MegAnne shares is her framework for breaking the destructive cycle of yelling, feeling guilty, and trying to make amends through gifts. She introduces the CLEAR approach:
Connection
Limits
Empowerment
Accountability
Recovery
The Power of Connection in Healing Trauma
Perhaps the most profound takeaway from our conversation is the understanding that our children are often catalysts for our triggers, but not the cause. By focusing on connection and presence, we can begin to heal not only our relationships with our children but also the wounded parts of ourselves.
If you're ready to transform your parenting approach and create a more peaceful home environment, this episode is a must-listen. MegAnne's compassionate insights and practical strategies offer hope and guidance for any parent struggling to break free from the cycles of their past.
Remember, mama: healing is possible, and you don't have to do it alone. Let's journey together towards more conscious, connected parenting.Connect with MegAnne: https://bekindcoaching.com/
🎁 Ready to break free from the chaos and unlock peace in your motherhood journey?
Start with my free guide, Unlocking Peace, designed to help you take the first step toward calm and connection.
👉 Download it for free today: https://freebie.mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/guide
 
Want to be a guest on Mamahood After Trauma? Send Emily Cleghorn a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/riseandshinewithemilyc 
 

Safe Connections The Secret Ingredient for Healing After Trauma

Have you ever felt like you're fighting your battles alone, especially in motherhood? I've been there, and I want you to know that isolation isn't the answer – connection is.
For years, I believed that healing was a solitary journey. Books, podcasts, and courses became my companions, but I kept real people at arm's length. Why? Because trauma had taught me that people weren't safe. But here's the truth I've discovered: healing thrives on safe, loving connections.
The Struggle of Silent Suffering
When my daughter was born, all the emotions I had repressed came flooding back. I felt overwhelmed, disliked motherhood, and had an intense urge to run. But instead of reaching out, I suffered in silence for months.
This is what trauma does – it creates a disconnect from ourselves, our bodies, and others. True healing is about rebuilding those connections.
Finding Your Safe Haven
Healing doesn't mean you have to bare your soul to everyone. Start small:
Find one safe person who truly listens without judgment
Join a supportive community that understands your journey
Create spaces where you feel seen, heard, and accepted
When you find your people, your healing potential expands in ways that aren't possible alone.
You Are Not Alone
If you're craving a trauma-informed community where you can be your whole, messy, healing self, I have something special for you. The Inner Circle is a free, private WhatsApp community for mamas like us. It's a safe space to connect, share, and grow together.Become an Inner Circle member- https://freebie.mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/innercircle  
Remember, you're doing amazing things, and I'm so proud of you. Together, we're mending the past so we can mother in peace.
Ready to take the first step towards connection and healing? Download your free Unlocking Peace guide from the link in the show notes. It's packed with practical tools to help you start your healing journey and manage triggers with more ease.👉 Download it for free today: https://freebie.mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/guide
You don't have to do this alone, mama. Let's create calm and reclaim your peace – together.Want to be a guest on Mamahood After Trauma? Send Emily Cleghorn a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/riseandshinewithemilyc 

Finding Your Tribe When Family Court Feels Like a Battlefield

Have you ever felt like you're fighting an invisible battle, trying to protect your children while navigating the treacherous waters of a high-conflict divorce? If so, you're not alone. Many parents find themselves caught in a web of legal complexities, emotional turmoil, and constant fear of what their ex might do next.
In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with Lisa Johnson, a high-conflict divorce strategist and certified domestic violence advocate. Lisa peels back the curtain on the often-misunderstood world of legal abuse and shares invaluable insights for parents facing seemingly insurmountable challenges in family court.
Unmasking the Reality of High-Conflict Divorces
Lisa reveals the heart-wrenching truth about how some exes weaponize the legal system and even their own children to punish, control, and financially drain their former partners. You'll learn why traditional approaches to divorce often fall short in these cases and how to recognize the signs that you might be dealing with a high-conflict situation.
The Hidden Toll on "Responsible" Parents
If you've ever felt ashamed or blamed yourself for your situation, Lisa's words will resonate deeply. She explains why highly capable, empathetic individuals often become targets in these relationships and how societal expectations can compound their suffering.
Practical Strategies for Navigating the Storm
Lisa doesn't just highlight problems – she offers concrete solutions. You'll discover:
How to choose the right attorney for your unique case
The importance of trauma-informed support
Why community is crucial for healing and strategizing
A Beacon of Hope in the Darkness
Perhaps most importantly, Lisa emphasizes that there is hope. With the right approach and support, it is possible to navigate even the most challenging family court situations successfully.
Are you ready to reclaim your power and protect what matters most? This episode is your first step towards understanding the complexities of high-conflict divorce and arming yourself with the knowledge to face it head-on.
🎁 Ready to break free from the chaos and unlock peace in your motherhood journey?
Start with my free guide, Unlocking Peace, designed to help you take the first step toward calm and connection.
👉 Download it for free today: https://freebie.mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/guide
 
Want to be a guest on Mamahood After Trauma? Send Emily Cleghorn a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/riseandshinewithemilyc 

The #1 Grounding Tool Every Overwhelmed Mama Needs on Hard Days

Do you ever feel like you’re about to lose it — and you just need something to bring you back to yourself?You're not alone, mama. Those moments when the house is loud, your patience is thin, and your nervous system is on edge... they’re real, and they’re heavy.
In this episode, Emily gets raw about those meltdown moments — sharing a personal story from just last week (yep, it happened in public), and walking you through the one powerful, grounding tool she reaches for when everything feels like too much.
🎯 In this episode, you'll learn:
The exact breathing technique Emily uses to stay grounded (5-5-7 breathing)
Why this tool calms your nervous system fast — even mid-meltdown
A real-time guided practice you can do right now
Why grounding doesn’t mean shutting out the chaos, but anchoring within it
🧘‍♀️ Breathe with her during the episode — this isn’t just theory, it’s practice.
💬 “You can’t always stop the chaos around you, but you can anchor yourself.”Let that sink in, mama.
And remember: This is just one of the tools in your healing journey. Imagine having an entire Trigger Toolbox built just for mamas like you — practical, doable, trauma-informed tools to carry you through even the hardest parenting days.
👉 Ready to build your own Trigger Toolkit?Join me inside the Beyond the Trigger course — where I walk you through the exact tools and steps to stay calm, connected, and empowered in motherhood.[Let's talk about it]
Subscribe & Review:Loving what you hear? Make sure to follow the show and leave a review — it helps more trauma-surviving mamas find the support they need. 💜Want to be a guest on Mamahood After Trauma? Send Emily Cleghorn a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/riseandshinewithemilyc 

Unraveling the Body Mind Connection in Trauma Recovery

Have you ever felt like your past was holding you back from fully embracing motherhood? As trauma survivors, we often carry invisible wounds that can resurface unexpectedly, making the journey of parenting feel overwhelming at times.
In this eye-opening episode, I'm joined by Jill McMahon, a compassionate therapist specializing in traumatic loss and grief. Together, we explore the often misunderstood world of trauma recovery and its profound impact on our lives as mothers.
Uncovering the Hidden Impacts of Trauma
Jill shares her unexpected path into trauma recovery work, revealing how an internship at a grief and loss agency completely changed her career trajectory. Her insights shed light on:
The importance of acknowledging all forms of traumatic loss, not just those related to death
Why society often struggles to validate certain types of grief and trauma
How unresolved trauma can manifest in surprising physical symptoms
Breaking the Silence: Finding Your Voice in Healing
One of the most powerful aspects of trauma recovery is learning to speak openly about your experiences. Jill emphasizes the importance of creating a safe space where clients can express themselves without fear of judgment. She explains:
Why detailed storytelling can be a crucial part of the healing process
How understanding the biological impacts of trauma can be incredibly empowering
The connection between physical ailments and unresolved emotional pain
Empowering Yourself Through Knowledge
As we discuss the mind-body connection in trauma recovery, you'll discover:
How to advocate for yourself more effectively with medical professionals
The growing acceptance of somatic healing techniques in treating trauma
Why understanding your body's responses can lead to more informed life choices
Hope for the Future: Breaking Generational Cycles
We explore the exciting shifts happening in how we approach emotional intelligence and mental health:
The rise of cycle-breaking work among younger generations of parents
How increased awareness is slowly changing the medical community's approach
The potential for major breakthroughs in trauma treatment in the coming years
If you've ever felt alone in your struggles as a trauma survivor and mother, this conversation offers a beacon of hope and understanding. Tune in to gain valuable insights that could transform your healing journey and help you reclaim your power as a parent.
Ready to take the next step in your healing? Don't forget to download your free Unlocking Peace guide from the link in the show notes. It's packed with practical tools to help you start creating calm and managing triggers with greater ease.
Remember, you're not alone in this journey. Together, we're mending the past so mamas can mother in peace.
🎁 Ready to break free from the chaos and unlock peace in your motherhood journey?
Start with my free guide, Unlocking Peace, designed to help you take the first step toward calm and connection.
👉 Download it for free today: https://freebie.mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/guide
 
Want to be a guest on Mamahood After Trauma? Send Emily Cleghorn a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/riseandshinewithemilyc 

From Childhood Tummy Aches to Healing Gut Health as an Adult

Have you ever felt like your body was betraying you, especially when it comes to your gut health? For many of us, digestive issues can be a lifelong struggle, often rooted in experiences we may not even remember. But what if I told you that healing is possible, and it starts with understanding the profound connection between your past and your present health?
In this eye-opening episode, I'm joined by Courtney Cowie, a functional health practitioner whose personal journey with gut issues led her to become a beacon of hope for others. Courtney shares her evolution from a child plagued by mysterious stomach aches to a woman on a mission to uncover the root causes of chronic illness.
The Hidden Link: Trauma and Your Gut
Courtney reveals the often-overlooked connection between childhood experiences and adult health issues. We explore:
How early relationships shape our nervous system and digestive function
The surprising research linking IBD to maternal relationships
Why addressing both physical and emotional aspects is crucial for healing
Beyond the Surface: Digging Deeper into Gut Health
Discover why simply changing your diet or popping a probiotic isn't always enough. Courtney explains:
The role of "bad organisms" in creating ongoing digestive stress
How generational trauma can impact your genetic expression
Why some people are more susceptible to developing gut disorders
Your Healing Toolkit: A Holistic Approach
Ready to take charge of your gut health? We discuss practical strategies, including:
Finding the right balance between physical and emotional healing modalities
The importance of addressing nutrient deficiencies and inflammatory foods
How to explore various trauma-healing tools to find what resonates with you
Remember, healing isn't a one-size-fits-all journey. It's about finding the unique combination of approaches that work for you.
Are you ready to listen to your gut and start your healing journey? Tune in now and take the first step towards reclaiming your health and peace of mind.
🎁 Ready to break free from the chaos and unlock peace in your motherhood journey?
Start with my free guide, Unlocking Peace, designed to help you take the first step toward calm and connection.
👉 Download it for free today: https://freebie.mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/guide
 
Want to be a guest on Mamahood After Trauma? Send Emily Cleghorn a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/riseandshinewithemilyc 

Gentle Words for Tough Days Building Self Compassion in Motherhood After Trauma

Have you ever caught yourself in a spiral of self-criticism, feeling like you're your own harshest judge? As trauma survivors and mamas, we often default to this pattern, believing it keeps us safe. But what if this very habit is holding us back from true healing?
In this raw and honest episode, I share a personal revelation that changed everything for me. You'll hear how I discovered that all my healing practices weren't truly effective until I addressed the cruel inner voice that had taken up residence in my head.
Breaking Free from the Self-Criticism Trap
Through vulnerability and hard-won wisdom, you'll gain insight into:
Why self-criticism feels familiar and even necessary for trauma survivors
How harsh self-talk keeps our nervous system stuck in fight-or-flight mode
The transformative power of self-compassion in rewiring our inner dialogue
A simple yet powerful exercise to start shifting your self-talk today
From Survival Mode to Self-Compassion
"Healing isn't just about stopping the yelling or managing the triggers. It's about building a new relationship with yourself," I explain. This episode offers a gentle reminder that you're not broken or failing - you're learning, growing, and healing.
I'll walk you through:
Recognizing the defense mechanism behind self-criticism
Understanding why compassion, not criticism, is the key to lasting change
Practical steps to interrupt negative thought patterns
How choosing self-compassion impacts not just you, but your entire family legacy
Ready to Rewrite Your Inner Dialogue?
If you're tired of battling that harsh inner critic and want to embrace a more compassionate approach to your healing journey, I have something special for you. Introducing the 30 Days of Self-Compassion program – a transformative journey designed to help you rewire your inner voice and cultivate lasting self-kindness.
Are you ready to show up for yourself with the same care and understanding you give to your children? Your path to deeper healing and peace starts here. Listen now and take the first step towards becoming the compassionate, nurturing presence you've always wanted to be – for yourself and your family.Learn more about 30 days of Self Compassion- coaching.mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/selfcompassion 
🎁 Ready to break free from the chaos and unlock peace in your motherhood journey?
Start with my free guide, Unlocking Peace, designed to help you take the first step toward calm and connection.
👉 Download it for free today: https://freebie.mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/guide
 
Want to be a guest on Mamahood After Trauma? Send Emily Cleghorn a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/riseandshinewithemilyc