The Marriage & Motherhood Podcast
If you're a mama whose marriage has become increasingly disconnected and difficult after kids, this podcast is for you. Join host Michelle Purta each week as she has open and honest conversations about what it takes to have a successful and healthy marriage focusing on healthy communication and deep connection.While mom life can feel rewarding, it can also feel like losing yourself. You trade in your self care for self sacrifice and your marriage takes a backseat or no seat at all as you juggle this crazy life where it feels like all you do is chores, take care...
Ep. 214 - Building Your Mom Village with Patrice Payment
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
Is it just you… or is making friends as a mom actually really hard?
You’re not imagining it. Mom friendships take more effort, more intention, and a whole lot more vulnerability than they did before motherhood.
In this episode, I’m joined by psychotherapist Patrice Payment, who specializes in supporting moms through anxiety and major life transitions. Together, we talk about something every mom goes through but no one really prepares you for—how friendships shift when you become a parent...
Ep. 213 - The Phases Every Marriage Goes Through (and What Each One Needs)
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
Ever wonder if your marriage is supposed to feel this hard now that you have kids?
In this episode, I share the normal phases that every marriage goes through after becoming parents. Whether you're newlyweds, deep in the toddler trenches, or juggling multiple kids, this episode will help you understand what phase you're in and what your marriage needs to grow through it.
Tune in to hear me dive into:
The 5 phases couples experienceHow parenting and pressure can change your marriage dynamicWhy...Ep. 212 - IBS, Bloating, Anxiety? How Gut Health Impacts Your Daily Life with Lola MacLean
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
Have you ever felt like your body is working against you and it’s affecting your marriage, your parenting, and your mental health?
In this episode, I am joined by functional gut health coach and family nurse practitioner Lola MacLean to explore the gut-brain connection and how your gut health might be the hidden cause of irritability, emotional instability, fatigue, and even communication breakdowns in your marriage.
Tune in to hear us chat about:
What gut health really is...Ep. 211 - Is It Just A Rough Patch Or Does Your Marriage Need Help?
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
Are you and your spouse just navigating a rough patch—or is your marriage calling out for help?
This is one of the most common questions I get from couples, especially after kids enter the picture. When things feel hard, it can be difficult to know whether to wait it out or to take action.
In this episode, I walk you through the signs of a rough patch vs. deeper issues in your marriage. I break down what each looks like, what questions to...
Ep. 210 - Is Mom Guilt Good Or Bad? with Alysia Lyons
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
Do you ever feel guilty for working, yelling, taking time for yourself or just wanting a break?
If so, you’re not alone. You’re a mom living with a whole lot of pressure from invisible rules you never actually agreed to.
This week on the podcast, I’m joined by intuitive coach and author Alysia Lyons to explore a powerful new way to look at mom guilt — not as something to get rid of, but as something to listen to.
Instead...
Ep. 209 - Boundaries Every Marriage Needs To Thrive
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
In this episode, we’re diving deep into a topic that often gets misunderstood—boundaries in marriage. If you've ever felt resentful, disrespected, or just plain burned out in your relationship, there's a high chance that a boundary is either missing or unclear.
Tune in to hear me share:
What boundaries actually are (hint: they’re not ultimatums or punishments!)Why healthy communication boundaries prevent recurring conflict5 key types of boundaries every couple needs:EmotionalTimeConflictFamily & In-lawDigital & PrivacyReal-life examples of what healthy vs. unheal...Ep. 208 - Signs Your Child Might Have Celiac (And What to Do Next) with Carrie Saunders
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
If you are raising gluten-free kids or suspect your child may need to transition into the gluten-free lifestyle, in this episode I chat with Carrie Saunders from The Gluten-Free Engineer to discuss how she has navigated life learning she has Celiac late in life and as a mom of 3 boys who all have Celiac disease.
During the episode, she shares her personal and parenting journey from years of misdiagnosis to becoming an empowering resource for families navigating the gluten-free lifestyle.
If you’re a busy mo...
Ep. 207 - The Truth About Prioritizing Marriage After Parenthood
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
Are your kids the center of your world—but your marriage feels more like a roommate situation?
In this episode, we're talking about one of the hardest but most important truths for moms to hear: your marriage has to be a priority—even after kids.
It’s so easy to pour everything into motherhood and assume your relationship can wait. But the truth is, every time you put your marriage on the backburner without circling back to reconnect, you're creating more distan...
Ep. 206 - Redefining Marriage Roles: Success at Home and in Business with Melanie Birkey
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
Can you be a high-achieving woman and still have a thriving, supportive marriage? Absolutely. In this episode, I am joined by Christian Life Coach Melanie Birkey to talk about what it really takes to balance ambition and marriage in a modern relationship. Melanie shares her personal journey of overcoming burnout, healing limiting beliefs, and redefining what partnership looks like when both partners are driven and raising a family.
Whether you're trying to balance entrepreneurship, motherhood, marriage—or all three—this conversation will give you the mindset shifts and...
Ep. 205 - How to Stop Arguments Before They Start
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
Tired of conversations with your partner turning into arguments? In this episode, I break down one of the most powerful marriage communication strategies: pivoting. Discover how to recognize when things are going sideways and exactly what to do instead. This skill is a game-changer for couples who want respectful communication, a stronger partnership and deeper connection.
This episode gives you a sneak peek into the tools my coaching clients learn to break the argument cycle.
If you’re a married mom who’s ready to i...
Ep. 204 - Understanding Your Period for Marriage Success with Anna Sneed
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
Add understanding your period to the list of things I wish I learned before my 30s.
In this episode I was joined by Anna Sneed, co-founder of The Agenda Period, to talk about the revolutionary tool every woman should be using: cycle syncing.
If you've ever felt like you're a different person each week or wished your husband just got what you needed—this episode is a must-listen.
Anna explains how understanding your cycle isn't just helpful for personal wellbeing—it’s a
Ep. 203 - Feeling Empowered During Conflict
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
Do you ever walk away from an argument with your husband thinking, “Why did I say that?” or “Why didn’t I speak up for myself?” In this episode, I’m sharing the #1 shift that helps you feel more confident and calm during arguments—so you can stop reacting and start communicating in a way that creates a deeper connection and strengthens your partnership.Â
Whether you tend to shut down, blow up, or over-accommodate, you’ll learn how to ground yourself before engaging so that you can advocate for your...
Ep. 202 - The Busy Mom's Guide To Doing It All with Hannah Morgan
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
Feeling overwhelmed by the endless to-do list, mental load, and invisible labor of motherhood? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to keep doing it all on your own. In this episode, I’m joined by Hannah Morgan, founder of Heron House Management, to dive deep into practical, system-based solutions that help moms stop burning out and start building support—both inside and outside the home.
We’re talking about real strategies for sharing the load, how to get your partner more involved without micromanaging, involving yo...
Ep. 201 - The 2 Words That Are More Impactful Than "I Love You" in Marriage
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
Are you craving deeper emotional connection, more intimacy, and stronger partnership in your marriage—especially while juggling motherhood?
In this episode we’re diving into why “thank you” is more powerful than “I love you” when it comes to keeping your marriage strong and satisfying.
Many women feel unseen and unappreciated by their spouses, especially under the weight of parenting and daily responsibilities. But did you know that gratitude—not just communication or love—is one of the strongest predictors of marital satisfaction...
Ep. 200 - Rediscovering Who You Are & Friendships As A Mom with Krissy Bold
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
All moms can relate to the experience of losing themselves after having kids and I think it's time to start talking about how you can start to rediscover who you are again.
In this episode, I got to have a chat with Krissy Bold, a mom identity coach to talk about the universal experience of losing oneself in motherhood and the importance of rediscovering our identity and how to make friends after you become a mom.
Download Krissy's Guide on how to Make a Mom...
Ep. 199 - Marriage Coaching 101: What to Expect and How to Get Results
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
Did you know marriage counseling isn't the only way to get support for your marriage?
If you've ever wanted an alternative to marriage counseling, here's an episode dedicated to explaining how marriage coaching works and how to make sure you get the results you want out of it.
If you are ready to finally see the change you want in your marriage, book your clarity call with me today so we can get started!
Thank you for listening!
If you resonated...
Ep. 198 - Touched Out: Understanding and Navigating Overstimulation As A Mom with Molly Ryden
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
If you're raising littles, you know exactly what it means to be touched out.
In this episode, I am joined by Molly Ryden from Mommy Needs Me Time and we discuss the concept of being 'touched out'—the physical and emotional exhaustion that parents, especially mothers, often experience.
Tune in to hear Molly discuss the causes and effects of being constantly touched by children and how it can impact your mental health and marriage and what you can do to support yourself whenever you reach th...
Ep. 197 - What's More Important Than Communication?
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
We often hear how important communication is in marriage, but did you know there's something even more important than communication?
In this episode, I'm diving into why respect needs to be prioritized as the key ingredient. As marriage becomes more challenging after becoming parents, respect is often the first to go. We start to become more lax with how we communicate and take our stress out on our partners. So tune in to hear why respect needs to be reprioritized in your marriage and how to weave...
Ep. 196 - Finding Joy Beyond Infertility with Rachel Mangahas
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
Navigating Infertility and Maintaining Your Sense of Self
In this episode, I am joined by my new friend Rachel, an infertility coach, who shares her personal journey of overcoming infertility through surrogacy and adoption. Rachel discusses the complex emotional challenges associated with infertility and how it impacts daily life and relationships. In this conversation, Rachel provides practical advice for managing the emotional challenges of infertility and how to still experience joy while you're still going through something so trying.
Sign up for Rachel's Reset Week...
Ep. 195 - How To End The Nagging And Start Communicating As Partners
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
If you feel like the only way you can get more partnership in the home is by nagging, this episode is for you!
In this episode, I am addressing the all so relatable challenge of how to get more partnership without having to resort to nagging. Turns out, nagging is not at all effective and can actually cause more harm than good so tune in to hear me share practical strategies for initiating productive conversations, managing expectations, and creating a balanced household dynamic.
Thank you...
Ep. 194 - Daily Habits for Self-Care Success with Tiffany Lewis
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
Mother's Day is just around the corner, so I thought it would be fitting to share an episode about you and your wellbeing!
In this episode, I am joined by Tiffany Lewis to discuss the impact of self-care on all aspects of life, including motherhood and marriage. Tiffany shares her personal journey as a busy mom of three, entrepreneur, and founder of a stationary brand she created to help millennial women.
In this conversation, we talked about misconceptions about self-care and Tiffany's 3 non-negotiable habits that...
Ep. 193 - Improve Your Marriage Without Working On Your Marriage
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
In this episode, I'm diving into ways you can start seeing positive changes in your marriage without even involving your husband. The work we do on ourselves is just as important as the work we do with our partner, so if you want to try something new and start viewing self care in a different light - check out this episode!Â
Thank you for listening!
If you resonated with this episode and you're ready to break the cycles you've noticed in your marriage, reach out b...
Ep. 192 - Finding Peace After Birth Trauma with Brigid Tebaldi
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
In this episode, I have Brigid Tebaldi, Birth Trauma Healing Coach, share what birth trauma is and how birth trauma can manifest in different ways and impact women's trust in their bodies and their overall well-being.
Is Your Birth Experience Still Affecting You? Take this quiz to find out - https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/packages/124591
Connect with Brigid:
www.loretowellness.com
www.instagram.com/brigid.tebaldi
Thank you for listening!
If you resonated with this episode and you're...
Ep. 191 - Keep Misunderstandings From Turning Into Fights
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
How often do you experience conversations turning into fights because of a misunderstanding?
In this episode, I'm addressing the common issue many couples face: feeling unheard and misunderstood by a spouse during important conversations. Tune in to hear why simple discussions often escalate into fights and learn actionable strategies to break unhealthy communication patterns.
Grab the free Conflict To Connection Guide here!
Thank you for listening!
If you resonated with this episode and you're ready to break the cycles you've noticed...
Ep. 190 - Redefining Womanhood: Breaking Free From Being A "Good Girl" with Jennifer Delliquadri
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
In this episode, I welcome back transformational life coach Jennifer Delliquadri to talk about the challenges faced by women who were raised to be "good girls", the resulting burnout, and how to find fulfillment through making subtle changes in your life.
Join Jennifer's FB group here!
Connect with Jennifer:
IG: @jennifer.delliquadri
Podcast: Subtle Shifts
Website: https://www.jenniferdelliquadri.com
Thank you for listening!
If you resonated with this episode and you're ready to break the cycles you've...
Ep. 189 - Reigniting The Spark After Kids
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
Those of us who are married with kids know how quickly responsibility replaces romance.
In this episode, I go into the decline in romance and connection often experienced in marriages after having children. The increase in responsibilities and exhaustion make maintaining the relationship challenging. Tune in to hear practical tips to keep the connection alive in your marriage even while you're knee deep in raising kids!
Thank you for listening!
If you resonated with this episode and you're ready to break the cycles...
Ep. 188 - Talking About Sex With Your Spouse with Sofia Ashley
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
Navigating Communication and Intimacy in Marriage
In this juicy episode, I am joined by Sex Coach for Busy Parents, Sofia Ashley, to discuss the intricacies of talking about sex in your marriage - particularly if you are unhappy with sex in your marriage and you'd like things to improve. We talk about overcoming common obstacles to open dialogue about intimacy.
Connect with Sofia!
Podcast: Sex After Kids Podcast
IG: thehappyvproject
Thank you for listening!
If you resonated...
Ep. 187 - How To Repair After A Big Fight
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
Let’s face it, marriage isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. Sometimes, we fight. And while that’s totally normal, what you do after the argument matters even more than the argument itself. In this episode, we're talking all about the art of repair: how to move forward after conflict so you can reconnect, grow closer, and strengthen your marriage.
Want help getting started? Check out my conflict to connection guide to feel more confident initiating the conversation!
Thank you for listening!
If you re...
Ep. 186 - From Resentment To Romance - How To Reverse The Effects of Parenthood On Your Marriage with Lauren Trout
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
In this episode, I welcome my new friend Lauren to discuss what most, if not all of us, can relate to and that's how much marriage gets impacted after having kids.Â
In this raw, open conversation, Lauren shares her personal journey into motherhood and how her marriage made a turn for the worst and what she and her husband have been doing since they hit rock bottom to revitalize their marriage while raising 3 kids. We talk about their path to seeking professional help, improving communication, prioritizing self-care, a...
Ep. 185 - How Your Own Fulfillment Supports Your Marriage
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
Are you feeling frustrated in your marriage and putting all your energy into fixing it but not seeing the changes and progress you'd like? What if the real key to a stronger, more connected relationship is actually focusing on yourself?
In this episode, I dive into why prioritizing your own happiness, self-care, and personal fulfillment isn’t just good for you—it’s essential for a thriving marriage. When you rely solely on your spouse for emotional support, entertainment, and fulfillment, it can create pressure that strains your r...
Ep. 184 - From Employee to Entrepreneur - A Mom's Guide To Starting Your Own Business with Jenna Rykiel
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
In this episode, I am joined by business and mindset coach, Jenna Rykiel to discuss the journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship. If you've been feeling the nudge to start your own business, this episode is for you. We dive into the challenges and solutions of building a business as a mom, covering vital topics including balancing family life, overcoming obstacles, and creating a solid exit plan from your corporate job. Jenna shares her expertise and personal experience, offering valuable insights into how moms can successfully transition to fulfilling...
Ep. 183 - How To Talk More And Fight Less With Your Partner
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
Tired of having the same fights over and over with your spouse? In this episode, I’ll show you how to shift from constant conflict to meaningful conversation. You’ll learn why most arguments happen, how to slow down emotional reactions, and practical ways to get on the same page with your partner. Whether you’re struggling with communication or just want to strengthen your marriage, these simple strategies will help you talk more and fight less.
Thank you for listening!
If you resonated with this e...
Ep. 182 - Why Feeling Empowered Starts At Home with Mandela Linder
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
Are you feeling overwhelmed and disconnected in your marriage and motherhood journey? In this episode, I speak with Mandela Linder, a women's empowerment and sex coach, about how to feel more empowered, starting at home. We discuss the impact of mom guilt, body image issues, and unfulfilled needs in relationships, along with actionable steps to reconnect with your partner and yourself. Mandela shares her insights on creating a fulfilling sex life and the transformative power of self-love and community. Tune in to learn how prioritizing yourself can positively ripple...
Ep. 181 - Debriefing After Arguments The Secret To Better Conflict Resolution In Your Marriage
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
Are you struggling with communication in your marriage despite all your efforts? You're not alone. In this episode, I dive into the common challenges couples face when working on their communication and share practical tips on how to track your progress effectively. Learn why change takes time, the right questions to gauge your progress, and the importance of debriefing after disagreements. Plus, discover coping strategies for when you feel hopeless and understand the power of celebrating small wins in your journey towards better communication.
Thank you for...
Ep. 180 - Is Work-Life Balance Possible In Motherhood with Jennifer Gagnon
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
Work, Motherhood, and Marriage - is it possible for there to be balance with this?
In this episode, I am joined by Jennifer Gagnon, a Working Mom Coach, who shares invaluable tips on achieving a sustainable work-life balance. We dive into the challenges faced by working moms, including the pressures of corporate life and the evolving dynamics of parenting. Tune in for insights on how to curate your life with intention and reclaim your time amidst the demands of both work and family.
Connect with...
Ep. 179 - What To Do When Your Husband Isn't Big On Communication
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
Unlocking Communication in Marriage: Practical Tips for Connecting with Your Partner
Is communication a challenge in your marriage? In this episode, I address a common issue many marriages face: improving communication when one partner is big on communication and the other isn't. I dive into understanding reasons for the hesitance and practical strategies on how to create a safe environment for that to change. Tune in to discover ways to build a stronger, more communicative relationship with your spouse.
Thank you for listening!
...
Ep. 178 - The Answer To Handling Stress In Motherhood with Charlotte Haggie
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
Motherhood has no shortage of challenges, but did you know that there's something you can do to help you handle it better?
In this episode, I am joined by Resilience Coach, Charlotte Haggie. Charlotte shares her expertise on handling stress effectively, emphasizing the need for building mental resilience rather than just lightening one's load.
Check out Charlotte's guide for 5 tips on how to build your resilience here!
Connect with Charlotte:
IG: @charlottecoaches
Website: https://charlottehaggie.com/
Podcast: The Resilient Mum<...
Ep. 177 - Why Communication Feels Harder After Kids (And What You Can Do About It)
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
Did you know that sleep deprivation makes us 60% more reactive? In this episode, I discuss the strong connection between sleep and our emotional well-being and how it impacts communication and conflict in your marriage. We've all experienced being on Team No Sleep when we become a mom and in this episode, I will share what you can do to keep your marriage thriving throughout the sleepless nights so that you can stop getting into preventable arguments with your husband.
Thank you for listening!
If you...
Ep. 176 - The Parent's Guide To Having Sex Talks with Kathleen Hema
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
Are you struggling to navigate the cringey topic of sex education with your kids? I have known Kathleen for years and I am so excited I got to finally record an episode with her. Kathleen is a sex education advisor for parents and in this episode, she shared invaluable insights on making these tough conversations easier. From early discussions about body parts to addressing myths, masturbation, and even porn literacy, this episode covers it all. Kathleen debunks common misconceptions and provides a step-by-step guide to foster a healthy dialogue...
Ep. 175 - The Winning Mentality for Marital Conflict
Let us know how you enjoyed this episode!
In this episode, I share a different perspective on navigating conflict in marriage. Conflict is inevitable, but arguing is optional is a saying that I stand by when it comes to having healthy communication. Learn how shifting your focus from winning arguments to solving problems can strengthen your partnership and deepen your connection. Discover practical strategies to navigate conflict to leverage conflict as opportunities for growth and connection with your partner.
Grab the free Conflict to Connection Guide here!
Thank you for listening!
...
