Empowerhood

In this week's episode, Allie Badger speaks with Becky LaBombard, a certified lactation counselor and owner of The Upstate lactation Collective, about the importance of community support in lactation, the spectrum of lactation care, and the challenges new parents face with societal expectations versus biological norms. They discuss the dynamics of breastfeeding, the emotional aspects of weaning, and the significance of understanding one's own body and needs during the parenting journey. Becky emphasizes that every family is unique and encourages parents to seek support when needed. This is a must listen if you are pregnant, newly post-partum or supporting...

In this must listen episode, Jen Peters shares her insights on protecting peace, setting boundaries, and finding purpose as a Christian woman and mother. She emphasizes the importance of awareness, self-care, and authenticity in navigating life's challenges. Jen also discusses her coaching opportunities, encouraging women to embrace their worth and step into their God-given identities. If you would like to work with Jen, please reach out to her at www.mylifecoachjen.com or on Instagram @mylifecoachjen. Also, check out Jen's interview with Megan on episode 2!

In this conversation, Allie interviews Maddie Frazier, a young mom and entrepreneur, about her journey through motherhood, balancing various responsibilities, and her passion for wellness. Maddie shares her experiences as a stay-at-home mom, her love for sourdough baking, and her involvement in essential oils. In our discussion we highlight the challenges and joys of being a young mother, the importance of community support, and the transformative power of a positive mindset in parenting.

In this episode, Allie Badger interviews Erika Thompson, who shares her journey of transitioning from a corporate career to becoming a stay-at-home mom. Erika discusses the challenges of balancing work and motherhood, the importance of family dinners, and her new venture, Northway Meals, which aims to bring families together around the dinner table. She emphasizes the significance of making personal choices that align with one's values and the joy of being present for her children.

In this episode, Tanya Frazier shares her journey as a mother of seven, discussing the challenges and joys of raising a large family. She reflects on her experiences with loss, faith, and the importance of creating a nurturing home environment. Tanya emphasizes the significance of self-care, communication, and prayer in parenting, offering insights into balancing family life while maintaining personal health. The discussion highlights the dynamics of raising boys and girls, the role of faith in everyday life, and the importance of being a positive example for children.

In this engaging conversation, Allie interviews Dominique Spagnola, a dedicated doula and lactation counselor. They explore Dom's multifaceted life as a mother, business owner, and advocate for maternal health. Dominique shares her journey to becoming a doula, the vital role doulas play in supporting birthing individuals, and the importance of lactation counseling. The discussion highlights the significance of community support for mothers and the challenges they face in their parenting journeys. Dom's passion for her work shines through as she emphasizes the need for accessible resources and support for new mothers. Make sure if you are expecting, planning to...

In this heartfelt conversation, sisters Allie and Taylor reflect on their childhood experiences growing up with an alcoholic mother. They discuss the challenges and traumas they faced, the impact on their adult lives, and the journey towards understanding and forgiveness. Through their shared stories, they explore the complexities of family dynamics, the importance of healing, and how they honor their mother's memory while navigating their own paths as adults.

In this heartfelt episode of Seasons & Change, host Megan Vandevanter shares a major life announcement that marks a turning point in her podcast journey. After much reflection and growth, Megan passes the mic to her cohost, Allie Badger, as she embraces a huge new chapter of adventure with her family. 

Tune in for a touching conversation about the challenges and beauty of letting go, how change can foster growth, and the powerful lessons Megan has learned throughout this season of her life. Whether you're navigating a shift of your own or simply looking for inspiration, this episode w...

In this empowering episode of Balancing Life, we dive deep into the importance of setting healthy boundaries for ourselves as moms and women. As caregivers, professionals, and multi-taskers, it's easy to lose sight of our own needs. Megan and Allie share practical strategies for setting and maintaining boundaries that protect our mental and physical well-being. We discuss how saying "no" can be an act of self-care, how to communicate your needs clearly without guilt, and how establishing limits allows us to show up fully for ourselves and those we love. Whether you’re juggling family, work, or your own pe...

In this vulnerable episode, Danika opens up about her journey as a young, single mom navigating emotional abuse, the mistakes made along the way, and the challenges of parenting her daughter from a very young age.Through it all, Danika shares how these struggles have transformed her perspective on life and motherhood, turning what seemed like obstacles into some of her greatest blessings. From moments of doubt to feelings of triumph, Danika’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the unbreakable bond between mother and child. Tune in for an honest and empowering co...

In this heart wrenching and honest episode, Jessica Russo opens up about the hardest challenges of motherhood and how mental illness, including the ADHD and bipolar disorder diagnosis of her son, added layers of complexity to parenting she never imagined. Through her personal journey, Jessica discusses the delicate balance of raising a second child while caring for a sick child, managing the emotional rollercoaster of one bad thing after another, and finding hope amidst the chaos.

Jess offers a raw and authentic look at motherhood, mental health, and the importance of self-care in order to survive these...

In this heartfelt episode, Linda Weatherby joins Megan and Allie  to discuss the complexities and challenges of co-parenting after divorce and remarriage. Linda shares her insights on how parents can always keep the child’s well-being at the center, work together as a team, and establish respectful boundaries even in difficult situations. From setting house rules to ensuring mutual respect between parents, this episode is packed with practical advice for making blended families work.

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In this powerful episode, Megan Savaria shares her personal journey through an unmedicated childbirth, offering an intimate and inspiring look at her birth story. Megan opens up about her decision to go medication-free after her first two children’s births were not.  Tune in to find out why she chose this path, the challenges she faced, and the incredible strength she discovered within herself. Whether you’re preparing for your own birth, interested in alternative birth experiences, or simply want to hear a moving story of resilience, this episode is filled with valuable insights and raw honesty.

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In this episode, Megan and Allie dive into the power of community and connection for moms. Whether you're a new mom or just looking to expand your support network, we share practical tips for making friends, finding resources, and building a sense of belonging in your local area. Plus, we’ll chat about how to overcome the challenges of putting yourself out there and how to prioritize those mom friendships that truly lift you up.

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Mom of 5 and author Laurie Devernoe joins us this week. From a miscarriage to naturally conceiving triplets, Laurie joins us to share all her incredible mama wisdom. How do you find peace among the chaos of multiple young children!? If anyone knows how it is Laurie!! This episode is packed with so much great knowledge on how to find yourself within the business of multiple children and also how her faith brought her through some of the darkest times in her life where she lost her vision. Laurie is now a mental health coach, public speaker and author of...

Kayla from Fitfilled is back and bringing is incredible knowledge to get us fueling our bodies correctly and feeling our best! If you missed Kayla’s first episode(44), check out our chat about why you might not be able to lose weight and some huge reasons why what you eat matters. Today we tackle the most important steps of how to set sustainable nutrition goals for yourself this year and actually keep them! Why do most people fail to keep their New Year's goals? Tune in to find out a simple step most of us miss. 

Kayla and...

Happy New Year!! Megan and Allie talk about all things goals today as we head into 2025. Using Arnold Schwarzengger’s book “Be Useful” a guide they tackle long term visions to breaking those dreams down into little goals that fit into your life now. They both share what works for them personally and what hasn’t worked. They can both agree on this, consistent goal setting each year has brought growth and accomplishment into their lives. We all want that, no matter how big or small! Tune in to hear all the tips and tricks they use and some of their...

Carissa Corbin, a mama to three babies and starter of the Capital Region’s Mom Walk Collective joins us this week. What is The Mom Walk Collective? 100% tune in to find out!! Carissa shares her journey from Nashville to New York with three kids under the age of 4 and how she started the Mom walk Collective here in New York. Her plans to support young moms are above and beyond and Allie and I are so excited to share her vision! To find where the group meets each month check out their Instagram page or message Carissa directly here. 

This week Megan and Allie talk about their personal traditions from childhood that they remember vividly and how they have incorporated some into their family traditions today. Why are traditions so important? The girls take a look at what kids actually remember as children and why we find it so important to this day to still make our Grandmother’s cranberry bread, sing Happy Birthday to Jesus, or read a certain book on Christmas Eve. What traditions do you continue to keep in your family? We would love to hear about them! Listen in to hear a blast from th...

Ever heard of music therapy for children? I had but really didn’t really know what it was! Ashley Koch joins us in episode 68 to share her story of how she found her calling(or really how it found her) in music therapy and just how incredible it is for children and adults. Learning disabilities, motor and developmental skills, stress management, fun! You name it, music can do wonders. Ashley now uses music therapy to homeschool her own children and can’t wait to see what the future brings in each season of life. If your child is having trou...

Leah is back!! If you haven’t listened to her first episode 16, I highly recommend it! She is such a light and in this week's episode we tackle mindfulness as a mom during the holidays. The pull to buy more and do more instead of focusing on what’s most important, making memories with our kids. This chat is power packed with vulnerable topics of unworthiness and also strategic tools to help us navigate this crazy world and tune into ourselves and find out what we truly want. 

Leah Owns Brave Lion Mind, and she is sharing her “...

Woohoo!! We are so excited to announce Allie Badger as Co-host of The Empowerhood Podcast!! Welcome Allie!! Allie was on the pod in episode 59, definitely listen in to get to know her better. She is an incredible mama to three and has a huge heart to encourage and help other moms alongside Megan. In this episode get to know Allie and Megan as they share 3 facts about themselves that no one knows. Comment and follow along on our brand new instagram what you might have in common with our hosts. 

Thank you so much f...

Paula Fidalgo, owner of The Dust Busters and a brand new book joins us to share her story of her 13 year divorce (yes it took that long) and how she took the negative energy and turned it into good. Learn how she started her successful company while going through her divorce and being a mom to three kids!! Paula shares about her new journey with her brand new book release, her inspiration behind the book and all of her plans now that her kids are grown. She is an inspiration! You can find Paula and her book on her...

Grace is back and we are tackling all things health for the holidays!! How do we stay healthy emotionally and physically during this busy, sometimes taxing season? Holistic Health Coach Grace Loney and Megan talk about some of their biggest personal challenges during the holidays and the strategies they use to get them through. It is a giving and grateful season but in order to do our best we have to fill up our own cup. Listen in for these super helpful, simple tips you can totally make your own to protect your well-being and enjoy these moments with...

Sarah Trop from Funcycled jumps right into all things vulnerable and motherhood. Her wisdom and humor are unmatched in this episode as we jump from one relatable topic to the next. Find out what not to take personally, how to find balance with and play, and how to be intentional and completely present with your kids. You can find Sarah on Instagram or on her website Funcycled. 

Thank you so much for being here. Want to help support The Empowerhood Podcast? With a small monthly donation you can join our community Patreon group and  he...

Deb Wallace from Erth and Wellness Massage joins us to talk about her motherhood journey and the plans she had versus the reality of what happened. We all make plans, have dreams, have daily goals we want to accomplish and within motherhood these can change in a second. How do we adapt? How do we let go of past dreams and open up to new opportunities? Deb’s story is incredibly inspiring as she navigated with four children through some of the hardest times in her life. You can find Deb on her Instagram above or her Facebook. She is...

Kara Kramer from KSOPT and Mixed and Maker’s Boutique joins us to share her journey through PPD and PPA. This episode is so relatable as Kara tells her with her first baby she had no idea what was happening and never asked for help. But with her child she knew something wasn’t right and was able to get the help she needed instead of just surviving. Advocating is so important! Listen in as we navigate one of the hardest topics as a new mom. 

You can find Kara on Instagram or also go visit her in he...

Jenn Rankin, mama to four children and owner of Wonder Oral Wellness, joins us this week to talk about all things homeschooling. Curious about homeschooling or scared you might not be able to do it? Jenn covers it all as she shares first her personal unique childhood experience to how she became a teacher to her four children. Have questions? You can find Jenn on Instagram at Wonder Oral Wellness.

Thank you so much for being here. Want to help support The Empowerhood Podcast? With a small monthly donation you can join our community Patreon group and  h...

Allie Badger joins us in episode 59 sharing her journey through childhood trauma to having a family of her own. This episode is so powerful as Allie explains the excruciating work she had to do in order to forgive and the realizations she came to as she had her own children. We all have baggage from our childhoods. This chat highlights how important it is to confront it head on in order to heal and break the pattern. Thank you Allie! You can find her on facebook @ allieadele. 

Thank you so much for being here. W...

Emily Boyle joins us this week to tell us all about her diagnosis with breast cancer at a very young age, right after becoming a new mom. This episode is so raw and painfully real as Emily takes us through her trauma of how she has gradually overcome the pain to be able to share her story and help other women. You can find Emily on Instagram  now coaching women to help prevent cancer from ever happening or support through a similar illness. Follow along for more incredible daily knowledge and inspiration. 

Thank you so...

Angela Mineau joins us this week to talk about how becoming a mom was the last thing she wanted but the thing she needed most when she unexpectedly got pregnant. Listen in as she talks about how having her son not only changed her emotionally but also financially, and brought more joy and purpose into her life than she could ever imagine. 

Thank you so much for being here. Want to help support The Empowerhood Podcast? With a small monthly donation you can join our community Patreon group and  help keep us going and gr...

Chelsea Kline joins us this week to talk about the terrifying challenges she is going through right now with her 4 year old daughter. We dive deep into the unknown of childhood illness and being the voice for our children within our healthcare system. Chelsea shares what has helped her through this difficult time and how she desperately wants other parents to have these resources. Chelsea is a regular on Empowerhood, you can find her in episode 4 and interviewing me in last year's finale episode 53. She is an incredible Boudoir Photographer and friend, please keep her daughter in your prayers...

Mother daughter duo Cassondra and Cassy Schauble join us for a really fun episode! Cassondra shares how she raised Cassy, some of the hard times they went through and the light at the end of the tunnel that brought them to the family bond they have now. As parents we all want to have this bond with our children and this duo definitely has it! The family all works together out of the same building and just recently bought land to build their dream family compound. Tune in for so much goodness and laughter as we embark on the...

Welcome back from our summer break!! I have such a special guest for you this week to kick off the new season!!! My daughter Greye joins us to share her point of view as a kid for us to be able to be even better moms. From going back to school, what core memories helped her growing up, and what moms can do to best support their children now. As her mom, boy was I vulnerable(ahem since I raised her!)I had no idea what she was going to say. Listen into this special episode as Greye gives...

Empowerhood is turning One!! Get to know Host and creator Megan Vandevanter as Chelsea Kline (episode 4) takes over the interview. Megan shares why she started Empowerhood, who she really is as she turns 40 (today!!), and what is going on in her life right now. From colossal mistakes, unexpected circumstances, and on and off depression, Megan shares how she imperfectly takes her obstacles to go out into the world and shine her light in Jesus name. This episode is full of super vulnerable and raw truth moments you do not want to miss!!  If you have questions for Megan you c...

Face your fears and step into your power with Jessica Joines. We all have fears, doubts and anxieties. How do we feel them and ultimately find freedom? Jessica brings us through her personal story of fear and how she found her own power and a calling she never expected to find. You can find Jessica on her website or on her social media which is packed full of free resources! Listen to the full episode today!

In episode 51 my dear friend Annie joins us to tell her story of getting married and pregnant at the young age of 19 that completely changed the trajectory of her life. Becoming a mom was the best thing to ever happen to her, and it also brought the hardest part, an abusive relationship. Annie tells us how she found her way out the relationship and also back to her true self, finding what makes her happy. Annie is now living her dream as a signed singer and songwriter with a major label, writing songs about her experiences to help other...

Michelle Buonfiglio joins us in episode 46 to share her compelling story of getting sober and gaining control and true clarity of her life. If you think not drinking is boring you should meet Michelle! She does not let her recovery hold her back from anything. She is FUN(seriously)! Listen in as we hear her journey from rock bottom, talk moderation, and tips on how to deal with certain situations we might get into. Michelle now uses her experience as a sobriety coach helping other women find their balance with alcohol and find fun in social events without the...

Amanda Bryan joins us in episode 49 to share her motherhood story of having her first daughter and having the instinct to wait 5 years before having another child. Now with 3 children Amanda talks about looking back knowing that age gap was exactly what she needed in the season of life and how going with your own flow is always going to benefit you versus following societies standards. Doing what works best for you, whatever that might be, is the way to go. There is no right or wrong way to grow a family! Your way is the only way you...

Kara Conway Love joins us in episode 48 to talk with us from the perspective of having grown children. Kara was a busy partner in her family's law firm when her kids were little. The demand was sometimes too much and she felt she made huge mistakes that have stayed with her since then. Fast forward to her children now grown, out of the house and thriving, Kara speaks on how her kids are incredible, and she now realizes she was always doing the best she could as a mom. This topic is SO relatable as we all navigate balancing...