Rewrite the Mother Code with Dr. Gertrude Lyons

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In this episode, I share an honest reflection on the journey of my first book launch. While the initial sprint of events and media has concluded, I delve into the unexpected parallels between launching a book and new motherhood. It’s a powerful, potent time, ma...

In this rich, heart-centered conversation, Dr. Gertrude Lyons speaks with family law attorney and equity partner Katy Mickelson about following a nonlinear career path, parenting through IVF, and how real life—not law school—became her greatest teacher. Katy shares what it means to bring creativity into a traditionally rigid field, why she values mentorship, and how raising teens has taught her as much as any courtroom.

They discuss balancing ambition with presence, how fertility struggles shaped her perspective on motherhood, and why authenticity is her superpower in both law and life. This episode is an honest, ener...

In this insightful conversation, Dr. Gertrude Lyons sits down with entrepreneur, leadership coach, and podcast host Emily Bronaugh. Together, they unpack what it means to lead with intention, hire with care, and mother a business without losing yourself in the process.

Emily shares her journey from burnout to business ownership, and how she learned to build systems, delegate with trust, and create space for both feminine values and effective leadership. They explore the cultural narratives around control, responsibility, and what it truly means to ask for help.

Whether you run a household, a business, or...

In this powerful and unapologetic conversation, I sit down with Sonali Fiske—TEDx speaker, creative coach, former radio host, and fierce advocate for cultural equity and representation. We explore the intersection of creative expression, sacred rage, and self-mothering, and the courage it takes to tell the truth in a world built to silence it.

Sonali shares her journey of moving from invisibility to global visibility, and why anger became the alchemical force that transformed her life and leadership. We also reflect on the behind-the-scenes process of crafting a TEDx talk that disrupts the status quo—and the back...

In this solo episode, I reflect on the emotional swirl of launching my first book, Rewrite the Mother Code, and everything that came after the sprint. From excitement and fulfillment to overwhelm and uncertainty, I open up about the full spectrum of the experience, and why it reminds me of new motherhood.

This is a conversation about truth, creativity, vulnerability, and the deep work of staying present. I share the beauty, the mess, and the moments of grace that made this journey real.

If you’ve ever launched a project, stepped into a new version of...

In this soul-expanding episode, I sit down with artist, composer, writer, and TEDx speaker Gregg Stewart to explore creativity as both a path of healing and a lifelong act of becoming. From music to novels, parenting to presence, Gregg invites us to step into our creative selves with curiosity, compassion, and the audacity to do it anyway.

We talk about the emotional labor of sharing your truth on a TEDx stage, the fear and joy of co-parenting, and the inner transformation that comes with giving yourself permission to create. Gregg's wisdom is both practical and poetic, and...

In Part Two of our conversation, Jen Pastiloff shares from the beating heart of her new book, Proof of Life - a work that was birthed through grief, trauma, beauty, and a fierce devotion to truth. This episode is a masterclass in living unfiltered, trusting the body, and speaking the unspeakable.

We go deeper into her creative process, the limitations of traditional wellness spaces, and what it means to parent while unlearning self-abandonment. Jen offers an invitation not to perform or perfect, but to pause. To feel. To say what is real.

This conversation is...

In this deeply embodied conversation, I speak with Jen Pastiloff - bestselling author of On Being Human, creator of the Shame Loss Movement, and a radically honest voice in the world of healing and presence. Jen brings her whole self to the mic: her deafness, her grief, her humanness, and her fierce belief in truth-telling as a path to freedom.

In Part One of our conversation, we trace Jen’s journey through early loss, chronic self-doubt, and the internalized belief that she had to hide or perform her way through life. We explore the beauty and brutality of...

In this raw and powerful episode, I sit down with Allie Casazza—author, coach, and founder of the “Becoming Her” movement—for a deeply honest conversation about the messy, miraculous process of breaking open and rebuilding.

Allie shares her journey from building an 8-figure business rooted in minimalism to experiencing a profound unraveling of her personal and professional life. We talk about the self-betrayal that can accompany success, the silence of shame, and how illness, burnout, and trauma cracked open the parts of herself that had long been hidden.

What emerged from that dark night of the s...

In this episode, I sit down with Nina Mongendre—author, guide, and family constellations practitioner—for a deeply spiritual and nourishing conversation on inner child healing, ancestral connection, and reimagining the healing journey through archetypal wisdom.

Nina shares her path from Kundalini yoga teacher and spiritual seeker to integrating shamanic practices, constellation work, and ancestral healing in a more embodied, emotionally attuned way. We discuss her forthcoming book Reclaiming Your Inner Child: A Journey of Childhood and Ancestral Healing, and how the journey of self-mothering begins with reuniting with the parts of ourselves we’ve left behind.

F...

In this deeply personal solo episode—recorded exactly two weeks before the release of my first book, Rewrite the Mother Code—I invite you into the tender and powerful space I found myself in as I prepared for one of the most meaningful transitions of my life.

Now, as the book officially launches into the world, this recording captures the rawness, the reverence, and the inner preparation that took place behind the scenes—not just for the celebration, but for the becoming.

This episode is not about the party. It’s about what this moment represen...

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Julia Krankl—a Harvard-educated physician, UCLA-trained psychiatrist, TEDx speaker, author of The 21st Minute, and mother—for a deeply enriching conversation on mental health, emotional wellness, and the complex, sacred unraveling of the postpartum experience. Dr. Krankl brings both clinical insight and lived wisdom to our dialogue, drawing from her extensive training and personal journey.

Julia shares insights from her new book, The 21st Minute: Everything You Wish Doctors Explained About Mental Health, a resource she created to empower individuals with accessible, practical tools for navigating their emotional lives. We e...

In this episode, I have the great pleasure of sitting down with Sarah Trott—mother, advocate, and visionary creator of the Fourth Trimester Podcast, as well as the founder of HelloGaia, a beautifully designed digital resource rooted in evidence-based parenting support.

Sarah’s journey into maternal wellness began, like so many of ours do, through lived experience. As a new mother, she found herself asking questions that echoed across generations—questions that had remained unanswered for far too long. From this space of curiosity and care, she birthed something truly transformational.

Together, we explore how Sarah...

In this episode, I’m joined once again by the radiant Yann Dang—a transformational coach, devoted mother, former CFO, and one of the most expansive women I’ve had the honor of witnessing on her journey. Together, we explore the ever-evolving path of self-mothering and what it means to show up with presence, truth, and grace as both a parent and a leader.

Yann shares the raw and real layers of her transition from the corporate world into entrepreneurship, the profound lessons she’s learning while raising two young daughters, and how launching her podcast became yet anot...

As I prepare for the launch of my book and upcoming TEDx Talk, I’ve been reflecting deeply on the themes of self-care, trust, and intuitive guidance. In this solo episode, I share insights from a recent retreat that helped me reconnect with a sense of ease, openness, and joy—especially in times of uncertainty.

I explore the support that surrounds us, both seen and unseen, and the importance of tuning into our intuition—particularly during astrological moments of intensity. Drawing on insights from Neptune Kazemi, shared by Nada Yousif, I reflect on how to discern illusion from r...

In this episode, I talk with Nina Spears, founder and CEO of Baby Chick, about her work supporting mothers through their pregnancy and parenting journeys. Nina shares her unconventional journey into the field, from working a job she disliked to becoming a certified baby planner, doula, and maternal wellness expert.

We discuss the importance of community for new mothers, the overwhelming amount of information available, and the need for personalized support. Nina also shares insights into the services Baby Chick provides, focusing on education and empowerment for women.

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In this episode, I speak with HeatherAsh Amara, best selling author and spiritual guide, about her journey of self-discovery and her teachings on personal transformation. HeatherAsh shares her insights on moving from self-judgment to discernment and from victimhood to authentic vulnerability.

We discuss her books, including "Warrior Goddess Training" and her latest, "Wild, Willing, and Wise," and how they connect with the theme of rewriting the mother code. HeatherAsh also opens up about her personal experiences, including a devastating wildfire and how it led her to found the Center for Creative Intent, a nonprofit organization focused on...

In this episode, I sit down with Mel Harris, a strategic alliance builder, four-time co-producer of the GLAAD Media Awards, and host of Finding Our Way Forward. Mel and I first connected as fellow TEDx speakers, and our shared experience forged an instant bond. Beyond the stage, Mel’s work amplifies marginalized voices, builds transformative partnerships, and redefines leadership through advocacy and empowerment.

Our conversation explores Mel’s personal journey of resilience—from navigating the challenges of coming out in an evangelical faith community to finding her own path of self-mothering. She shares powerful insights on overcoming trauma...

In this solo episode, I take a moment to reflect on a pivotal time in my life—the final stretch before my book release and TEDx talk launch. As I sit in this liminal space, I explore the emotions that arise when we are on the edge of something significant, the excitement and discomfort of creation, and the deep inner work required to stay present through change.

I dive into the challenges of self-promotion, the tension between external validation and internal fulfillment, and the importance of remembering why we create in the first place. I also share an...

In this episode, I speak with Janina Shorter, a professional doula, midwifery student, and passionate advocate for maternal care and healing. Janina shares her powerful journey from childhood loss and foster care to becoming a birth worker dedicated to breaking cycles of generational trauma. Her story is one of perseverance, self-mothering, and finding purpose through supporting others.

We dive into the transformative power of birth work, the realities of maternal health disparities, and the role doulas and midwives play in advocating for birthing people. Janina also discusses her upcoming book, Darkness to Deliverance: A Path from Pain...

In this episode, I speak with Megan Rosselot, a behavior analyst, special education teacher, and host of The Behavior Project Podcast. Megan shares her journey into behavioral health and how working with families inspired her to create an educational platform to help parents navigate challenges with their children.

Our conversation dives into the emotional and psychological aspects of behavior, the importance of understanding a child’s internal experiences, and how communication strategies can transform relationships. Megan also opens up about her personal experience as a mother, offering a unique perspective on balancing professional expertise with real-life parenting ch...

In this solo episode, Dr. Gertrude Lyons shares a deeply personal reflection on her journey through major life transitions, including the completion of her book, her TEDx talk, and the recording of her audiobook. She describes the powerful emotions and energy of the liminal space—the in-between phase where one chapter closes, and the next has yet to fully unfold.

Gertrude opens up about the importance of support, self-trust, and embracing uncertainty. She explores how stepping into the unknown can feel both exciting and daunting, and she reminds us that even when things are not yet visible, th...

In this episode, I speak with Rebe Huntman, a memoirist, essayist, and poet whose work explores the intersections of feminism, world religion, and spirituality. Rebe shares her deeply personal journey of losing her mother at a young age and how this profound loss shaped her exploration of the Divine Feminine.

Our conversation delves into Rebe’s experiences with dance as a sacred practice, her time studying Afro-Cuban spiritual traditions, and the transformative journey that led her to write My Mother in Havana: A Memoir of Magic and Miracle. Through her storytelling, Rebe offers a powerful perspective on gr...

In this episode, I speak with Kristin Revere, the founder of Gold Coast Doulas, an elite-certified birth and postpartum doula, newborn care specialist, and passionate advocate for maternal support. Kristin shares her journey from a background in political fundraising and nonprofit work to creating a doula agency dedicated to providing evidence-based, judgment-free support for mothers and families.

Our conversation explores the crucial role doulas play in birth and postpartum care, the challenges new mothers face, and how intentional postpartum planning can make all the difference. Kristin also offers insights into the importance of sleep support, community care...

In this episode, I speak with George Lizos, a bestselling author, spiritual teacher, and host of the Lit Up Lightworker podcast. George shares his profound journey of self-discovery, from his early struggles with identity to becoming a guiding light in the spiritual community. His story is a testament to resilience, self-acceptance, and the transformative power of intention.

Our conversation dives into George’s expertise on energy protection, the universal laws of manifestation, and ancient spiritual practices. From practical tools to harnessing your energy field to insights on balancing divine masculine and feminine energies, George empowers listeners to em...

In this episode, I speak with Cari Frame, a self-kindness coach, about the profound impact of embracing kindness toward oneself. Cari shares her journey from self-criticism to self-compassion and how her experiences inspired her to guide others on their paths to self-kindness. As a certified professional co-active coach, Cari helps individuals navigate life’s challenges by cultivating small, intentional practices of self-care and compassion.

Our conversation explores the barriers to self-kindness, the misconceptions surrounding self-care, and the transformative power of shifting inner narratives. Cari emphasizes how small acts of kindness can lead to profound personal growth and a...

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Emily Guarnotta, a clinical psychologist and certified perinatal mental health provider, to discuss the intricacies of parenthood and mental health. Together, we delve into the challenges faced by parents, how to balance personal identity with parenting, and strategies to build resilience during life’s transformative moments. Dr. Guarnotta shares her experience as the founder of Phoenix Health and offers actionable advice for thriving as a parent while prioritizing mental wellness.

Dr. Guarnotta highlights how intentional strategies, such as effective communication and self-awareness, can transform the parenting journey. This conversation is...

In this episode, I speak with Anna Maria DiDio, a devoted adoptive mother, accomplished children’s author, and passionate advocate for fostering open family dialogues about adoption and trauma. Anna Maria opens up about her personal experiences raising two daughters—one biological and one adopted—while dispelling the myths surrounding adoption and shedding light on its emotional complexities.

We delve into Anna Maria’s insights on the primal wound, a concept that explores the trauma of separation experienced by adoptees, and the transformative power of addressing this within families. Her books, including both a memoir and children’s stories...

In this episode, I speak with Gabriel Piemonte, a deeply influential figure in my own journey of writing and personal growth, about the complexities of redefining personal and cultural narratives about family and self-discovery. As a dedicated community leader and advocate, Gabriel opens up about the personal challenges and triumphs that have shaped his philosophy on authentic living.

Gabriel shares insights into how he redefined his relationship with traditional family roles, navigating the delicate balance between honoring legacy and pursuing personal evolution. Our conversation explores the process of questioning societal expectations and how embracing vulnerability leads to...

In this solo episode, I’m diving into a year of immense transformation, gratitude, and new beginnings. With the winter solstice as a backdrop, I reflect on the cycles of endings and beginnings that have shaped my journey over the past year. This reflective period has offered me a chance to not only celebrate milestones but also reckon with challenges that have pushed me out of my comfort zone. From writing my first book, an experience filled with discovery and perseverance, to crafting a TEDx talk that demanded vulnerability and courage, every step has been an invitation to grow. Na...

In this episode, I speak with Mariya Shiyko, a best-selling author and coach, about overcoming cultural expectations, her journey of self-discovery, and her experiences in motherhood.

Mariya didn’t set out to write a memoir but accepted the calling once she discovered the power of women sharing their stories. She shares her writing journey and the ups and downs of her first literary birth. The act of sharing her voice and expressing herself led Mariya to confront the fear and conditioning she received growing up in Russia about using her voice. In rebelling against cultural expectations, such as...

In this episode, I speak with Dr. Avanti Kumar-Singh, an Ayurvedic integrated medicine practitioner and yoga therapist, about integrating Western medicine with Ayurveda, longevity switches, and owning your power.

Healing comes from within. Dr. Avanti’s philosophy integrates the best of Western medicine with 5,000 years of Ayurvedic wisdom. Dr. Avanti’s upcoming book, the Longevity Formula, was inspired by the vibrant lives of her grandparents and sharing the longevity practices that have kept them healthy and in control of their well-being. She explains how important it is to live in harmony with nature and empower yourself with the...

In this episode, I speak with Marnie Marmet, the Founder of Zenful Life Coaching, about how she discovered her authentic voice, her go-to self-care rituals, and the journey of writing her memoir. 

Self-care and internal work is an ongoing process. By sharing how Marnie lost her voice as a child to actively reclaiming it as an adult and a mother, Marnie reminds us that no one is perfect and we all have much to learn. One part of her unfolding process was taking a memoir writing class by chance, which led to her writing and publishing a b...

In this episode, I speak with author and inter-spiritual teacher Mirabai Starr about writing as a spiritual practice, the mysticism around us, and her evolving relationship with religion. 

Mirabai’s latest book, Ordinary Mysticism, describes how to feel more holy and present in everyday life. Her work speaks to people’s spiritual yearnings without religious hierarchies by translating mysticism for all. Mirabai and I share some of our most transcendental, mystical experiences, particularly with the Divine Mother. We explore the fascinating lives of the mystics St. Teresa of Ávila and Julian of Norwich and discuss how we can in...

In this solo episode, I’m broadcasting from Mexico to speak about the nourishment of gratitude, birthday reflections, and contemplating duality. 

Birthdays are a wonderful time for reflection. With my birthday just past, I’ve been meditating on expecting delight. In this episode, I discuss the truly transcendent, transformative effects of being in gratitude for as long as you can. This birthday has also got me thinking about the blessing of being born on 11/11 and all I have birthed in the last year. As I prepare for my book to be released, I share how I’ve tried t...

In this episode, I speak with Jessica Zweig, an author and feminine business and branding coach, about building a business after burnout, her latest book, The Light Work, and the importance of healing.

Through the dark, we find the light. Jessica shares the bumpy path that led her from depression and burnout to selling her business and writing her latest book, The Light Work. She introduces the Pleidians, the 12 chakras, and her process of spiritual awakening that began on a trip to Egypt. Today she coaches female entrepreneurs and leads her team in a deeply feminine way...

In this episode, I speak with Dr. Dominica McBride, a community psychologist and founder of the Become Center. She shares how her family’s trauma has impacted her, the mission of the Become Center, and the importance of self-care for effective mothering. 

Dr. McBride shares how her mother's resilience and the impact of her grandmother's traumatic experiences in Haiti have inextricably shaped her present. We discuss how to know which mother codes to keep and which to work on. Today, she runs the Become Center, an organization dedicated to creating thriving communities. Dr. McBride discusses Become's initiatives, inc...

In this episode, I speak with Heather Hester, the Founder of Chrysalis Mama, about how she has mothered two LGBTQIA+ teens, how best to support our children, and how to prioritize love. 

Heather shares that her journey as a Founder began when her son Connor came out as LGBTQIA+. She then realized she did not have the tools to support him. In learning the importance of expressing unconditional love to her children, she encourages parents to educate themselves, prioritize their child’s mental health, and ensure their child’s school environment is affirming.  

She offers practic...

In this episode, I speak with Jamie Engelhardt, a brand strategist and mother of three, about solo parenting, breaking generational mother codes, and embracing queerness. 

Jamie shares where she’s at on the rollercoaster ride of parenthood, holding many types of tension and opposites at once, and what she sees as some of the most significant generational differences in how she was raised compared to this generation. There’s a lot to learn in recognizing that our children’s childhood isn’t the one we grew up in. 

Jamies recalls a healing experience in Mexico where wome...

In this solo episode, Dr. Gertrude walks into the dark. She challenges common fears around the dark, explores the dark wisdom of the feminine, and honors the dark as a season of growth.

As the nights grow longer in the Northern Hemisphere, Dr. Gertrude embraces the change in light. She explores how much of the Western world has come to vilify the dark and shroud the unknown as evil. She shares her personal journey with darkness and debunks outdated myths. Across cultures, these seasons are essential for accessing a different part of the self. 

Dr. G...