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

How Awareness Changed Everything

Have you ever felt like you’re just going through the motions — checking off all the boxes of what life is “supposed” to look like, yet feeling numb, disconnected, and exhausted underneath it all?
In this episode of Mamahood After Trauma, I’m sharing the story of my personal turning point — the day I stopped living on autopilot and became aware that trauma was shaping my motherhood.
It wasn’t a dramatic breakdown or lightning-bolt moment. It was a quiet realization on the couch, looking at my baby, whispering to myself: “There has to be a better way.”
You’ll hear:
What survival mode looked like in my life (and how I didn’t even realize I was in it)
The moment motherhood cracked me open and all my repressed emotions came rushing in
How awareness — not shame — became the first step of my healing
Why healing doesn’t start with massive change, but with noticing and choosing differently
If you’re feeling stuck in survival, this episode is an invitation to recognize that awareness itself is progress. You don’t have to have it all figured out — just becoming conscious is where healing begins.
Resources + Links:
Take the Where Am I Now? Quiz: https://freebie.mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/quiz
Grab the Unlocking Peace Guide: https://freebie.mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/guide
Learn more about Mamahood After Trauma: mamahoodaftertrauma.com
If this episode resonated, share it with a fellow mama who might need the reminder: survival isn’t the end of the story. Awareness is the beginning of healing. 💜
Want to be a guest on Mamahood After Trauma? Send Emily Cleghorn a message on PodMatch, here: 
https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/riseandshinewithemilyc 

Toddler Talk Tips for Trauma-Surviving Mamas

Ever feel triggered or overwhelmed trying to understand your toddler’s needs? You’re not alone.Communication in the early years is hard—for them and for us, especially when trauma makes it harder to stay calm.
In this episode, I sit down with Jessie, a pediatric speech therapist and mom of two, to talk about how to support your little one’s language development without losing your cool.
You’ll learn:
How baby sign language can ease the frustration
Why wait time is a powerful (and underused) tool
Simple ways to model speech and encourage connection
What realistic communication milestones actually look like
Bonus: These strategies don’t just help your child—they help you heal through calm, connected parenting moments.
🎧 Ready to feel more confident and less reactive during toddler talk struggles? Hit play and take the first step.Connect with Jessie: FREE Toddler Language Guide: https://jessie-kensey.mykajabi.com/speech-and-language-milestones Instagram: simplyspeech_
🎁 Start finding peace today! Get my free guide, Unlocking Peace, and discover practical steps to calm your triggers and nurture joy in your motherhood journey.
👉 Download now:
https://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 Lie of Being Too Broken

Ever felt like it’s too late for you to heal? Like you’re too broken, too damaged, or too far gone?You’re not alone—and you’re not beyond repair.
In this gentle but powerful episode, I’m speaking straight to the mama who feels stuck in the dark. We’ll explore:
Why the “too broken” belief isn’t your truth
How trauma wires us to doubt our worth
Why awareness—not action—is the first step to healing
If you’ve noticed something feels off, that’s not weakness. That’s your strength.Awareness is the spark that starts the healing fire.
✨ Grab these free tools I mention inside the episode:
Unlocking Peace Guide — to create calm when you're triggered- https://freebie.mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/guide 
5 Keys to Break the Cycle — for practical steps toward healing- https://freebie.mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/5keys 
You're not too broken. You're already rising. Let’s take this step together.
Want to be a guest on Mamahood After Trauma? Send Emily Cleghorn a message on PodMatch, here: 
https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/riseandshinewithemilyc 

When Trauma and Addiction Collide with Motherhood

What if your darkest moments could become the doorway to your greatest healing?
In this raw and powerful episode, I sit down with certified life coach Jennifer Chase. Once caught in the grip of generational trauma and addiction, Jennifer shares her journey from being the child of an alcoholic, to becoming an addict herself, to finally choosing recovery—for herself and her son.
You’ll hear:
How trauma shows up in motherhood (even when you think it’s behind you)
Why addiction is often a survival strategy, not a failure
The role of shame, stigma, and silence in keeping moms stuck
Practical ways to regulate your nervous system when you're triggered
What it really means to break the cycle, one day at a time
Jennifer’s story will meet you right where you are—with compassion, honesty, and hope.
Ready to take your first step?Take the free Cycle Breaker Quiz to find out where you are in your healing journey.
You're not alone. Let’s rise together.Connect with Jen:  https://www.riseaddictionlc.com
🎁 Start finding peace today! Get my free guide, Unlocking Peace, and discover practical steps to calm your triggers and nurture joy in your motherhood journey.
👉 Download now:
https://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 

Why Motherhood Feels So Hard When You’ve Survived Trauma

Ever feel like you're failing at motherhood—but deep down, you know there's more to the story?
You’re not broken. You’re likely a cycle breaker whose nervous system is still in survival mode.
In this episode, I’m breaking down:
Why “small” triggers hit so hard
How trauma shows up in motherhood (even if you’ve “moved on”)
The critical first step to stop blaming yourself
You’ll walk away with a powerful reframe that can change everything about how you see yourself, your reactions, and your healing journey.
👉 Ready to get clarity on where you are in the healing process? Take the Cycle Breaker Quiz.
You’re not alone in this. Let’s rise together.
🎁 Start finding peace today! Get my free guide, Unlocking Peace, and discover practical steps to calm your triggers and nurture joy in your motherhood journey.
👉 Download now:
https://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

Understanding Your Brains Response to Trauma as a Mom

Have you ever felt like your past experiences were silently shaping your present, influencing your relationships and parenting in ways you couldn't quite grasp? For many of us, trauma casts a long shadow, making the journey through motherhood feel like navigating a minefield of triggers and self-doubt.
In this raw and revealing episode, I sit down with Jasmina Sabi, a woman whose life has been profoundly shaped by trauma - from her multicultural upbringing to the heartbreak of abandonment during pregnancy. Through her story, we explore the hidden ways our brains respond to trauma and how understanding these mechanisms can be the key to healing.
Unraveling the Threads of Generational Trauma
Jasmina shares her journey of self-discovery, from feeling trapped by her past to pursuing education as a means of understanding her own behavior. You'll gain insight into:
The surprising ways trauma can manifest in our lives, even when we don't recognize it
How cultural differences and early experiences shape our perception of "normal" relationships
The importance of understanding your brain's response to trauma for true healing
Breaking the Cycle: From Victim to Empowered Mother
Through vulnerability and hard-won wisdom, Jasmina offers a new perspective on motherhood after trauma. She challenges conventional wisdom, encouraging us to:
Embrace honesty with our children about our own struggles and uncertainties
Recognize the impact of our past on our parenting style and make conscious choices
Find healthy ways to nurture ourselves, even when it goes against societal expectations
Practical Steps for Healing and Growth
This conversation isn't just about understanding trauma - it's about taking action. Jasmina shares practical strategies for:
Identifying your "instant gratification" triggers and how they impact your behavior
Creating a personal happiness toolkit that doesn't rely on others
Using self-awareness to regain control over your brain's automatic responses
A Call to Radical Self-Acceptance
Perhaps most powerfully, Jasmina challenges us to embrace every part of our story - even the messy, uncomfortable bits. She reminds us that true healing comes not from erasing our past, but from understanding it and choosing a new path forward.
Are you ready to explore the hidden influences shaping your motherhood journey? To challenge societal expectations and find a path to healing that's uniquely yours? This conversation offers a compassionate guide for every mama seeking to break free from the grip of past trauma and create a more peaceful, joyful experience of motherhood.
Your journey to understanding and healing starts here. Listen now and take the first step towards becoming the mother you've always wanted to be – for yourself and your children.Connect with Jasmina: https://a.co/d/54bqcmc 
🎁 Start finding peace today! Get my free guide, Unlocking Peace, and discover practical steps to calm your triggers and nurture joy in your motherhood journey.
👉 Download now:
https://mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/guide
 
Grab your copy of Emily's new release, "Breaking Free: Parenting in the Midst of Trauma Recovery" today! https://books.mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/breakingfree
 
Want to be a guest on Mamahood After Trauma? Send Emily Cleghorn a message on PodMatch, here: 
https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/riseandshinewithemilyc 

Quiet Power Shifting Family Patterns for Good

Have you ever felt the stirring of hope, even in the midst of your deepest struggles as a mama? That tiny spark that whispers, "Maybe things can be different"? As we wrap up this powerful series on Breaking Free, I want to celebrate the incredible journey we've been on together and shine a light on what's possible when we commit to breaking the cycle of generational trauma.
Over the past few weeks, we've explored trauma responses, nervous system regulation, triggers, and the transformative power of compassion. You've bravely faced your pain, perhaps shedding tears as you finally saw your experiences reflected in words. Maybe you've started tracking your triggers or experimenting with new regulation tools. Or perhaps you've simply allowed yourself to believe that healing is within reach.
The Quiet Revolution of Cycle Breaking
Here's the beautiful truth: cycle breaking isn't always dramatic. It's in the small, consistent choices we make every day:
Responding to our child with patience instead of frustration
Choosing self-compassion over harsh self-criticism
Setting a boundary, even when it feels uncomfortable
Allowing ourselves to feel our emotions without judgment
These moments might seem insignificant, but they're the building blocks of profound change. They're how we rewrite our story and create a new legacy for our children.
What's Possible When You Break Free?
As we continue this journey beyond the book launch, I want you to envision the possibilities that await:
A sense of emotional safety for you and your little ones
Unshakeable self-trust that guides your decisions
A nervous system that knows how to find calm in the storm
The ability to set boundaries without guilt
Forgiveness that doesn't minimize your pain
A family legacy built on freedom, not just survival
I've lived this transformation, and I've witnessed it in countless other mamas. It's not about perfection – it's about showing up, again and again, even when it's hard.
Your Invitation to Keep Going
If you've felt a shift during this series – a new awareness, a different response to an old trigger, or simply a sense of being truly seen – I want to encourage you: don't stop now.
Breaking Free isn't meant to be a one-time read. It's a resource to return to, a foundation for your ongoing healing journey. Whether you've dog-eared every page or you're just getting started, the path forward is laid out for you.
And if you're ready to take the next step, I invite you to explore Beyond the Trigger. Whether you choose the self-paced option or join me for personalized coaching, know that you don't have to walk this path alone anymore.
You're not just a reader or a listener. You're a cycle breaker, a change maker, a legacy shifter. And you're doing an incredible job.
So grab your copy of Breaking Free if you haven't already, dive into the workbook and bonus materials, and let's continue this journey together. Because this isn't the end – it's just the beginning of your story of healing and transformation.Grab a copy of "Breaking Free" today- https://books.mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/breakingfree
🎁 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 

Breaking the Cycle of Shame Embracing Self Worth After Trauma

Have you ever felt like your past was holding you hostage, preventing you from fully embracing motherhood? For many of us, childhood trauma casts a long shadow, making the journey through parenthood feel like navigating a minefield of triggers and self-doubt.
In this raw and powerful episode, I sit down with Kristin Duncombe, a therapist and advocate for survivors of sexual abuse. Kristin bravely shares her personal story of childhood sexual abuse and the long-lasting impact it had on her life.
From Silence to Strength: A Survivor's Journey
The insidious nature of abuse that often hides in plain sight
How unresolved childhood trauma can manifest in destructive coping mechanisms
The devastating effects of institutional protection of abusers
The power of breaking the silence and reclaiming your voice
Healing is a Lifelong Journey
Kristin's story doesn't end with the abuse. She takes us through her path of healing, including:
The pivotal moment that led her to seek therapy
How writing her book "Object" became a tool for reclaiming her power
The ongoing process of shedding shame and embracing self-acceptance
Practical Steps for Healing
If you're struggling with the aftermath of sexual trauma, Kristin offers valuable advice:
Identify your "stuck points" - the beliefs or patterns holding you back
Learn to shift your focus from others' perceptions to your own feelings and needs
Embrace the power of saying "no" and setting boundaries
You Are Not Alone
Remember, healing is possible. As Kristin powerfully states, "Shame needs to change sides." Your experiences do not define you, and you have the strength to reclaim your story.
Are you ready to start your journey towards healing and self-discovery? Listen now and take the first step towards becoming the mother you've always wanted to be – for yourself and your children.Connect with Kristin: 
www.kristinduncombe.com
https://www.instagram.com/kristin_louise_duncombe/
https://www.facebook.com/KristinLouiseDuncombe
https://substack.com/@kristinlouiseduncombe
 https://www.amazon.com/stores/Kristin-Louise-Duncombe/author/B00ATFG2K8?isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=08bed752-b9b1-47b2-8b33-b662674904f7
 
🎁 Start finding peace today! Get my free guide, Unlocking Peace, and discover practical steps to calm your triggers and nurture joy in your motherhood journey.
👉 Download now:
https://mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/guide
 
Grab your copy of Emily's new release, "Breaking Free: Parenting in the Midst of Trauma Recovery" today! https://books.mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/breakingfree
 
Want to be a guest on Mamahood After Trauma? Send Emily Cleghorn a message on PodMatch, here: 
https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/riseandshinewithemilyc 

You Are Not Your Past Embracing Healing in Motherhood

Have you ever felt like you were irreparably damaged, especially when it comes to motherhood? That nagging voice telling you you're not good enough, that you're somehow "broken" beyond repair? I've been there, and I want you to know something crucial: You are not broken. You are healing.
In this raw and heartfelt episode, I'm opening up about my own journey from believing I was irreparably damaged to embracing the transformative power of healing. As we celebrate the paperback release of "Breaking Free: Parenting in the Midst of Trauma Recovery," I'm sharing why these five words changed everything for me - and how they can do the same for you.
The Lie We Tell Ourselves
For years, I lived with that relentless inner critic:
You're too much.
You're damaged goods.
You'll never get this right.
You're screwing up your kids.
Sound familiar? This shame kept me quiet, stuck, and afraid to reach out for the support I desperately needed. But here's the truth I've discovered on my healing journey: that voice is a lie.
Rewriting Your Story
Through vulnerability and hard-won wisdom, you'll gain insight into:
Why your body's responses are actually trying to protect you
The moment I first believed I wasn't broken (hint: it involved a crying baby and a big shift in perspective)
How choosing connection over chaos can transform your parenting
Why healing isn't about perfection, but permission to become
A Hand to Hold on Your Healing Journey
"Breaking Free" isn't just a book - it's a companion for your healing journey. Inside, we explore:
What trauma really means and how it shows up in motherhood
Understanding triggers and working with them effectively
How to regulate without guilt
Parenting from peace instead of pain
Are you ready to stop believing you're broken and start embracing your healing journey? This episode is your invitation to come home to yourself, to rewrite your story, and to parent with the peace and presence you deserve.
Remember, every time you pause instead of react, every time you choose compassion over shame, you're not just healing yourself - you're rewiring your entire legacy. You've got this, mama. And I'm here cheering you on every step of the way.Grab a copy of Breaking Free today! https://books.mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/breakingfree  
🎁 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 

Uncovering Your Inner Light: Healing and Growing in Motherhood

Have you ever felt lost in the whirlwind of motherhood, yearning to rediscover the essence of who you are? You're not alone. Many of us struggle to reconnect with our authentic selves amidst the beautiful chaos of raising children.
Embracing Your Authentic Self: A Journey of Self-Discovery
Through our conversation, Tara reveals:
The pivotal moment that sparked her journey towards self-love and healing
How she overcame negative self-talk and learned to cherish every inch of herself
The unexpected challenges she faced even after achieving significant weight loss
Her experience with bodybuilding and how it reshaped her self-perception
Breaking Free from Food Addiction
Tara candidly discusses her long struggle with emotional eating and how she finally broke free from food addiction. Her insights offer hope and practical wisdom for anyone grappling with similar challenges.
Three Steps to Finding Yourself as a Mother
For mamas feeling lost or disconnected, Tara shares three actionable steps to begin your journey of self-discovery:
Cultivate awareness of your desires and what truly resonates with your authentic self
Start small by implementing one simple, consistent action that honors you daily
Commit to consistency and celebrate your micro-wins as they accumulate into significant change
"The only way out of anything is through it. Get through it, and you will see such a beautiful transformation on the other side."
Are you ready to embark on your own journey of self-discovery and healing? This episode offers the inspiration and practical guidance you need to take that first courageous step towards reclaiming your authentic self.
Remember, mama, you already have permission to prioritize yourself. It's time to honor who you truly are and embrace the beautiful, unique light within you.Connect with Tara: Website: www.tara-wiskow.comFreebie: https://bethechangeyouneedagency.mvsite.app/products/courses/view/1180457/?action=signup Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-the-change-you-need-podcast/id1689118909 
🎁 Start finding peace today! Get my free guide, Unlocking Peace, and discover practical steps to calm your triggers and nurture joy in your motherhood journey.
👉 Download now:
https://mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/guide
Grab your copy of Emily's New Release "Breaking Free: Parenting in the Midst of Trauma Recovery": https://books.mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/breakingfree 
Want to be a guest on Mamahood After Trauma? Send Emily Cleghorn a message on PodMatch, here: 
https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/riseandshinewithemilyc