In what we hope is our most empowering episode to date, we welcome our first guest, Dr. Amanda Hardy, a perinatal psychologist who works with expecting mothers regarding the transition from pregnancy into motherhood. We take a deep dive into her new book, "Dear Mama, You Matter" that deals with the expectations of new mothers versus what is really taking place mentally and emotionally; how do mothers grapple with the intense, life changing transition that takes place after their baby is born, and how birth practices in the United States do not set up mothers and babies for success. We also discuss the importance of relying on community as a new mother and being will to accept help even if it looks different than you pictured it. Thank you to Michael Lehman for the intro music and to Cellar Studio 39 for producing this episode.