Ep. 21 - Birth Plans vs. Birth Reality (Part 2): A Doula’s Take on Birth, Fear, and Advocacy
CONTENT WARNING: Discussion of Mental Health and Graphic Medical ProceduresIn this episode of Unprepared, Sahar and Rachel dive deep into the emotional rollercoaster of birth with special guest, doula Hannah. Their conversation was so juicy, we had to split it into 2 parts! From the unpredictable twists of labor to the importance of trauma-informed support, we explore what no one prepares women for—emotionally. Hannah shares her wisdom on overcoming fear, balancing birth stories (without toxic positivity!), and why having the right doula can make all the difference.We also tackle systemic issues in maternal care, the rise of "birth influencers," and the pressure of "bounce back" culture. Plus, Hannah shares one of her wildest birth stories! Whether you’re expecting, a new parent, or just curious about the realities of childbirth, this episode is packed with raw, real, and empowering conversations.Connect with Hannah:www.hannahdoula.com@hannahbirthdoula on InstagramConnect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel
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Ep. 20 - Birth Plans vs. Birth Reality: Hannah’s Journey from Patient to Doula
CONTENT WARNING: Discussion of Mental Health and Graphic Medical ProceduresIn this raw and powerful episode of Unprepared, Sahar and Rachel sit down with Hannah, a doula with a story that reshapes everything we think we know about birth, trauma, and postpartum mental health. The girls leave no subject on the table and Hannah shares her own harrowing birth experience—from a prolapsed umbilical cord emergency to a NICU stay, and ultimately, a postpartum psychosis diagnosis that changed her life. This isn’t just a birth story—it’s a lifeline for anyone who’s felt unprepared, isolated, or shamed by their postpartum experience.Connect with Hannah:www.hannahdoula.com@hannahbirthdoula on InstagramConnect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel
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Ep. 19 - From Sleepovers to Overscrollers: Summertime Parenting in the Digital Age
Welcome back to Unprepared with Sahar and Rachel! With summer in full swing, we dive into the challenges of the summer schedule, the merits and drawbacks of summer camps, and setting proper sleep over boundaries.We also discuss the importance of fostering independence, instilling trust, and setting boundaries around social media, TikTok, and the unfiltered nature of the internet. Join us as we unpack the realities of parenting, share laughs, and seek advice on how best to prepare our kids for the world ahead. Connect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel
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Ep. 18 - Ocean Waves and Baby Bumps: How to Overpack for a Disney Cruise
In this episode of Unprepared, join us for a candid and lively chat about summer adventures, family travel, and the wild ride of expecting number three! From overpacking on a cruise to toddler mayhem at the pool, we share funny mom fails, parenting hacks, and heartfelt moments. Plus, get the scoop on Rachel’s pregnancy journey at 23 weeks and her thoughts on welcoming another little one. Whether you're navigating bedtime battles or dreaming of future vacations, this episode is packed with real-talk, laughs, and a dash of chaos. Tune in for honest parenting stories and a reminder that, despite the madness, we're all in this together.Connect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel
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Ep. 17 - Taming Mom Rage and Embracing Imperfection
In this episode of Unprepared with Sahar and Rachel, we dive into the raw realities of mom rage — those moments when patience runs out and emotions boil over. From bedtime battles to that boiling over moment, we share our personal experiences, struggles, and surprising tips for managing the chaos. Whether you're a seasoned mom or new to the journey, you'll find comfort in knowing you're not alone. Join us as we explore how acknowledging our triggers, practicing self-compassion, and owning our imperfections can help us to be better spouses, moms, and co-workers. Grab a cup of coffee (or wine) and let's get real about the wild, wonderful, and sometimes messy world of being a mom.What was your worst Mom Rage Moment? Reach out to @swan_sahar and @rackenz or join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel
Welcome to Unprepared with Sahar and Rachel, the podcast where two working moms dive into the real, raw, and often chaotic moments of balancing careers, family, and everything in between. Join us as we chat about motherhood, navigating relationships, the latest trends, skincare secrets, self-care practices, and all the things that make up our crazy yet rewarding lives. With candid conversations and plenty of laughs, we’ll cover the ups, downs, and in-betweens of being a modern mom. Tune in for a refreshingly honest take on everything from work-life balance to pop culture, and everything else that keeps us going.