Mamahood After Trauma | Trauma Informed Parenting, Emotional Regulation for Moms

Mamahood After Trauma Podcast
Trauma-Informed Parenting | Emotional Regulation | Manage Triggers in Motherhood

Are you a mama carrying childhood trauma while trying to parent with patience, presence, and peace? You’re not alone — and you’re exactly where you need to be.

I’m Emily Cleghorn, trauma-surviving mama of two and Trigger Recovery Coach for Mamas. This podcast is where we stop pretending we’re “fine” and start healing out loud. Here, we talk honestly about maternal mental health, trauma-informed motherhood, and what it really takes to regulate your emotions and manage triggers in the middle of raising kids.

Each week, you’ll get trauma-informed conversations, practical healing strategies, and real talk about:

✨ Managing triggers in motherhood without guilt or shame
✨ Emotional regulation when everything feels like too much
✨ Building resilience after childhood, emotional, or birth trauma
✨ Reclaiming your peace while raising securely attached, connected kids
✨ Breaking generational cycles through grounded, heart-led parenting

Whether you're navigating postpartum triggers, coping with trauma resurfacing in motherhood, or simply trying to stay calm after a hard day, this show gives you the tools, stories, and support you need to heal without losing yourself.

This isn’t just a podcast — it’s a lifeline for cycle-breaking mamas rebuilding their lives from the inside out.

Take a deep breath. You’re not doing this alone.
Let’s walk this healing path together — one episode, one moment of peace, one breakthrough at a time.

🎧 Subscribe now and begin your journey toward peaceful, trauma-informed parenting.
Learn more at mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/podcast

Want to be a guest on Mamahood After Trauma? Send Emily Cleghorn a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/riseandshinewithemilyc

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Episodes

Thursday May 08, 2025

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 

Tuesday May 06, 2025

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 

Thursday May 01, 2025

Have you ever wondered how childhood experiences shape our relationship with food? As mamas, we often carry unseen burdens from our past that influence how we nourish ourselves and our families. In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with Jessica Setnick, a passionate advocate for healing dysfunctional eating habits rooted in trauma.
Jessica's journey into the world of eating disorders and nutritional psychology began with her own struggles. From growing up in a contentious household to losing her father at a young age, she candidly shares how these experiences led her to develop bulimia as a coping mechanism. Through her vulnerability, we gain insight into the complex interplay between trauma, emotions, and our relationship with food.
Unpacking the Connection Between Trauma and Eating Habits
In our conversation, Jessica illuminates the often-overlooked link between past experiences and current eating behaviors. She explains:
How food acts as a mood-altering chemical, offering temporary relief from emotional pain
Why certain eating habits become conditioned responses to triggers
The importance of awareness in breaking destructive patterns
From Unconscious Coping to Conscious Choices
Jessica's personal awakening moment in graduate school serves as a powerful example of how increased self-awareness can lead to healing. She shares practical strategies for:
Recognizing the emotional roots behind eating behaviors
Challenging automatic thoughts and conditioned responses
Developing healthier coping mechanisms to address underlying needs
"The only thing that chocolate can solve is a craving for chocolate. It can't solve whatever emotional pain or sadness you're experiencing."
This episode offers a compassionate look at the complex relationship between trauma, emotions, and eating habits. If you've ever struggled with using food to cope or want to better understand the roots of disordered eating, Jessica's insights provide a roadmap for healing and growth.
Are you ready to explore your own relationship with food through a trauma-informed lens? Tune in to gain valuable tools for nurturing both yourself and your family with greater awareness and compassion.Connect with Jessica: https://www.foodfairytales.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 

Tuesday Apr 29, 2025

Have you ever found yourself in the eye of an emotional storm, your child's meltdown threatening to sweep you both away? As mamas who've weathered our own traumas, these moments can feel like treacherous waters, leaving us grasping for solid ground.
But what if I told you that the key to calming your child's chaos isn't about fixing them, but about finding your own inner calm first?
In this raw and honest episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on co-regulation – a powerful tool that can transform those hair-raising moments of conflict into opportunities for deep connection and healing.
Navigating the Emotional Storm: The Art of Co-Regulation
Through vulnerability and hard-won wisdom, you'll gain insight into:
Why staying calm doesn't come naturally when you've grown up in chaos
The biology behind our urge to shut down or lash out in stressful moments
How to become an emotional anchor for your child when the waves are crashing
From Survival Mode to Safe Harbor: Practical Steps for Co-Regulation
I'll walk you through a no-fluff breakdown of how to actually put co-regulation into practice when emotions are running high:
Grounding techniques to calm your own nervous system first
The power of lowering your voice to lower your child's defenses
Phrases that create connection and safety in the midst of a meltdown
Breaking the Cycle: Modeling Emotional Regulation for Your Children
"When you co-regulate, you're not just calming a tantrum. You're teaching your child that their emotions are not dangerous."
Learn how these small, consistent steps can lead to big changes in your family dynamics, helping you break free from generational patterns of trauma response.
Ready to Become the Calm in Your Family's Storm?
If you're tired of feeling overwhelmed by your child's big emotions and want to create a more peaceful home environment, I have something special for you. Introducing the Unlocking Peace guide – a free resource designed to help you start creating calm, reclaim your peace, and manage your triggers with ease.
Are you ready to transform those chaotic moments into opportunities for connection and growth? Your journey to becoming an emotional anchor for your family starts here. Download the guide now and take the first step towards mending the past so you can mama in peace.👉 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 

Thursday Apr 24, 2025

Have you ever felt like your past experiences were holding you back from fully embracing motherhood? As mamas, we often carry invisible burdens that can dim our inner light, even amid the profound joy of raising our little ones. But what if I told you that healing is possible, and it starts with learning to listen to yourself?
In this powerful episode, I am honoured to sit down with Ellen Slater, founder of Heart and Hand, to explore the intricate connection between trauma recovery and motherhood. Ellen brings 20 years of experience in studying, researching, and healing trauma, offering a unique perspective as both a professional and a fellow mama.
Redefining Trauma: More Than Just Big Events
Ellen challenges our understanding of trauma, describing it as "experiencing pain and fear without the attuned presence of another." This definition opens our eyes to the subtle ways trauma can manifest in our lives and impact our parenting journey.
The Cycle-Breaking Power of Self-Compassion
If you're listening to this podcast, you might be the chosen cycle-breaker in your family lineage. While it's not an easy role, Ellen reminds us of its profound importance:
"Any cycle breaker is part of the healing of our species and our Earth."
Practical Steps Towards Healing
1. Connect with your body: Start by simply feeling your breath and physical sensations.
2. Practice self-touch: Gently place a hand on your heart or cheek as a gesture of self-comfort.
3. Cultivate curiosity: Ask yourself, "What is waking up in me right now?"
The Ripple Effect of Self-Love
Remember, how you treat yourself directly impacts how you treat your children. By nurturing a loving relationship with your inner world, you're not only healing yourself but also modeling essential emotional skills for your little ones.
Are you ready to embark on this transformative journey of self-discovery and healing? Join us as we explore the profound connection between trauma recovery and motherhood, and learn how to create a more peaceful, joyful experience for both you and your children.
🎁 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 

Tuesday Apr 22, 2025

Have you ever found yourself in that heart-sinking moment when you've just yelled at your child, and suddenly you hear your own parent's voice echoing through your words? It's a jarring experience that many of us face on our journey to break generational cycles of trauma.
In this raw and honest episode, I dive deep into the challenging reality of trying to parent differently when you weren't given the tools growing up. We explore the gap between wanting to change and knowing how to change, and why simply deciding to parent gently isn't always enough.
The Truth About Inherited Parenting Patterns
I share some hard-hitting truths about why we default to familiar behaviors under stress, even when we've sworn never to repeat them. You'll learn why:
Our nervous system relies on wiring built in childhood
Yelling or shutting down might be your body's learned survival response
You're not broken, but patterned - and patterns can be reprogrammed
Building Your Parenting Toolkit from Scratch
For those of us who want to parent gently but don't know how, it can feel like standing on the edge of a bridge we've never built. I offer insights into:
Why trigger awareness and regulation tools are foundational
The importance of building a response plan before chaos hits
Three micro-shifts to help break the yelling cycle
Embracing the Learning Process
If you've ever felt like you're failing because you yelled, this message is for you: You are allowed to be learning. I explain why:
You're not failing, you're learning to soften what was once hardened
Your kids don't need a perfect mom, they need a healing one
Every pause instead of explosion is rewriting your legacy
Are you ready to start mending the past so you can parent in peace? I've created a free Unlocking Peace guide packed with practical tools to help you respond instead of react. It's your first step towards building that bridge to gentle parenting, even when it wasn't modeled for you.
Remember, you're not crazy, you're not alone, and you are absolutely capable of parenting in peace - even when peace was never shown to you. Let's take this healing journey together, one breath at a time.
🎁 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 

Thursday Apr 17, 2025

Have you ever felt like life has thrown you one curveball too many? As mamas, we often face challenges that can leave us feeling overwhelmed and uncertain. But what if there was a way to not just survive these obstacles, but to truly thrive in the face of adversity?
In this powerful episode, I sit down with Michaela Cox, an inspiring author and speaker who has faced her fair share of life's toughest moments. Michaela opens up about her journey through what she calls the "38 triple D" - disability, divorce, and death - all by the age of 38. Her story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of choosing to overcome.
Embracing Grace: A Path to Thriving After Adversity
Michaela shares her hard-won wisdom on how to navigate life's most challenging moments, offering a unique perspective as both a mother with a disability and a solo parent. Through her experiences, she's developed a powerful framework for moving from survival to thriving, centered around the word "grace":
Grounding: Establishing a strong foundation to steady yourself in life's storms
Redesign: Embracing the opportunity to create a new narrative
Abundance: Cultivating a positive mindset to fuel your journey
Care: Prioritizing self-care and clarity over chaos and confusion
Equipped: Gathering the tools and resources needed for your journey
Lessons for Our Children: Creating a Legacy of Resilience
As mamas, we often wonder how our own experiences shape our children's lives. Michaela offers insights into how she's using her journey to teach her kids valuable life lessons, including her innovative "Before the Clock Strikes Midnight" book series - a beautiful way to pass on wisdom to the next generation.
"Choose well to live your best life and take your best shot."
This episode is a must-listen for any mama feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges. Michaela's story reminds us that with the right mindset and tools, we can not only weather life's storms but emerge stronger and more resilient than ever before.
Are you ready to transform your approach to life's challenges? Tune in to discover how you can apply Michaela's "grace" framework to your own journey, and start moving from surviving to thriving today.
🎁 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

Tuesday Apr 15, 2025

Have you ever found yourself snapping at your child, only to be overwhelmed by guilt moments later? As a mama who's experienced trauma, those reactive moments can leave you feeling lost and frustrated. But what if I told you that your nervous system isn't working against you – it's actually trying to protect you?
In this eye-opening episode, we explore the hidden truth behind your reactivity as a mother. You'll discover why those seemingly uncontrollable responses aren't flaws, but rather adaptations your body created to keep you safe during past traumas.
Unraveling the Mystery of Maternal Triggers
Through personal insights and practical examples, I'll guide you to:
Recognize how your past experiences shape your present reactions
Understand the crucial difference between what once kept you safe and what might be holding you back now
Identify the physical signals your body sends before you react
From Survival Mode to Conscious Parenting
But understanding is just the beginning. You'll also learn:
Simple, effective techniques to interrupt the cycle of reactivity
How to create a pause between trigger and response
The power of self-compassion in breaking old patterns
"What kept you safe then in the trauma might be keeping you stuck now."
You Don't Have to Do This Alone
Healing from trauma while navigating motherhood is a journey – one you were never meant to walk alone. That's why I'm thrilled to introduce you to our Inner Circle WhatsApp community. It's a gentle, supportive space where you can:
Receive bite-sized encouragement and voice notes
Access real-time nervous system tools
Connect with other mamas who truly understand
The best part? It's completely free and open now. Join through the link below or reach out to me directly on social media (emily.mamahoodaftertrauma on IG).
Are you ready to transform your triggers into opportunities for growth and connection? Listen now and take the first step towards mending your past so you can truly be present in your motherhood journey.
🎁 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
Join the Inner Circle community-
https://chat.whatsapp.com/CNWIkowNOW5K50rnX0zDPV
Want to be a guest on Mamahood After Trauma? Send Emily Cleghorn a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/riseandshinewithemilyc 

Thursday Apr 10, 2025

Have you ever felt like your past experiences were holding you back from fully embracing motherhood? As if there was an invisible barrier between you and the peace you long for? You're not alone in this struggle.
Many of us carry the weight of our history, unsure how to release it and step into our full potential as mothers. But what if I told you there's a way to heal at the deepest level, transforming not just your mind, but your very biology?
In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with Kate Mayer, an expert in quantum healing, to explore how this powerful approach can revolutionize your healing journey and impact your role as a mother.
The Quantum Leap in Healing
Kate shares her personal evolution from traditional therapy methods to the transformative world of quantum healing. Through her story, you'll discover:
Why conventional approaches often fall short in addressing deep-rooted trauma
How quantum healing taps into the body's innate wisdom to create lasting change
The surprising connection between your family history and your current struggles
Breaking the Cycle: From Pain to Peace
Kate's journey from an abusive relationship to empowered motherhood serves as a beacon of hope. She reveals:
Practical strategies for prioritizing self-healing while parenting young children
The ripple effect of personal growth on your children's confidence and resilience
Why allowing your kids to witness your healing process can be profoundly beneficial
Experience Quantum Healing Firsthand
In a special segment, Kate guides us through a mini quantum healing session. You'll have the opportunity to:
Identify a triggering situation in your life
Learn how to locate and quantify emotional responses in your body
Participate in a guided exercise aimed at neutralizing negative energy
Many listeners report feeling immediate shifts, from physical sensations to emotional release. Could this be the breakthrough you've been searching for?
Your Next Steps Toward Transformation
If you're intrigued by the potential of quantum healing, Kate offers several ways to dive deeper:
Access to her app featuring specialized healing programs (with an exclusive free month for our listeners)
Additional resources through her YouTube channel and website
Are you ready to rewrite your story and create a new legacy of peace for your family? This episode might just be the catalyst you've been waiting for.Connect with Kate: https://the-healing-place-app.kit.com/f376ca14fd
🎁 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 

Tuesday Apr 08, 2025

Have you ever felt like motherhood cracked you open in ways you never expected? Like suddenly, the person you thought you were vanished, replaced by someone you barely recognize? If you've found yourself hiding in the laundry room, tears streaming down your face, wondering "What's wrong with me?" – this episode is for you.
Before becoming a mama, you might have been the epitome of strength and achievement. But now? The smallest things feel insurmountable. You're reactive, overwhelmed, and carrying a heavy burden of shame. Let me assure you: You are not broken. What you're experiencing isn't weakness or failure – it's unhealed pain finally finding a safe space to surface.
The Mirror of Motherhood
As your host and a fellow mama on this healing journey, I'm here to share my own story of transformation. Like many of you, I thought I had "done the work" before becoming a parent. But motherhood acted as a powerful mirror, reflecting back all the wounds I had tried to outrun.
In this raw and honest episode, we explore:
Why becoming a mother can trigger unexpected emotional responses
The hidden connection between your past and your present parenting struggles
How to reframe your challenges as invitations for deep, lasting healing
Breaking the Cycle of Shame
If you've ever caught yourself thinking, "I didn't used to be like this," know that you're not alone. Together, we'll unpack why:
Your nervous system might be trying to protect you from old wounds
Suppressing these feelings often makes them louder
Healing is possible, and you don't have to do it alone
Your Invitation to Peace
Are you ready to start understanding your emotional reactions and find more peace, even in the chaos of motherhood? I've created a free resource just for you. The Unlocking Peace guide is your first gentle step towards regulation and release.
Grab your copy now at freebie.mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/guide
Remember, mama: You're not behind. You're not too much. You're becoming, one healing moment at a time. Let's mend the past together, so we can mother with peace and presence.Want to be a guest on Mamahood After Trauma? Send Emily Cleghorn a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/riseandshinewithemilyc 

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