<![CDATA[Mood and Brood]]>Mood and Brood is a podcast about the real emotional experience of becoming a parent.

Hosted by perinatal therapist Allie Barker, this show explores the honest, messy, meaningful, and often unspoken parts of pregnancy, postpartum, relationships, mental health, identity shifts, and modern parenthood.

Through a blend of expert insight, real stories, reflective conversations, and gentle humor, Mood and Brood creates space for the emotional realities many parents experience but rarely talk about openly.

Because becoming a parent changes more than your sleep schedule—it changes your relationships, your identity, your emotional world, and the way you see yourself.

This podcast exists to bridge the gap between expectation and reality while helping parents feel less alone in everything in between.

Whether you’re pregnant, postpartum, trying to conceive, or deep in the evolving process of parenthood, Mood and Brood is here to offer connection, validation, emotional honesty, and conversations that remind you there is nothing wrong with your experience being complex.

New episodes bi-weekly.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, medical care, or individualized mental health treatment.

]]>https://riverside.comRiverside.fm (https://riverside.com)Wed, 08 Jul 2026 05:19:39 GMTThu, 21 May 2026 21:47:09 GMT60Allie Barker<p>Mood and Brood is a podcast about the real emotional experience of becoming a parent.</p><p>Hosted by perinatal therapist Allie Barker, this show explores the honest, messy, meaningful, and often unspoken parts of pregnancy, postpartum, relationships, mental health, identity shifts, and modern parenthood.</p><p>Through a blend of expert insight, real stories, reflective conversations, and gentle humor, Mood and Brood creates space for the emotional realities many parents experience but rarely talk about openly.</p><p>Because becoming a parent changes more than your sleep schedule—it changes your relationships, your identity, your emotional world, and the way you see yourself.</p><p>This podcast exists to bridge the gap between expectation and reality while helping parents feel less alone in everything in between.</p><p>Whether you’re pregnant, postpartum, trying to conceive, or deep in the evolving process of parenthood, Mood and Brood is here to offer connection, validation, emotional honesty, and conversations that remind you there is nothing wrong with your experience being complex.</p><p>New episodes bi-weekly.</p><p>Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, medical care, or individualized mental health treatment.</p>episodicAllie Barkerthebeforebabypodcast@gmail.comyes<![CDATA[Episode 4: Movement During Pregnancy]]>Contact Sammi: https://www.instagram.com/movementbysammi/

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576662219934

https://www.movementbysammi.com/

A heartfelt discussion on how to adapt movement and mindset throughout pregnancy, highlighting the importance of listening to your body and fostering self-compassion for a healthier pregnancy experience.

Main Topics

  • Redefining expectations and embracing variability in pregnancy movement
  • Building body awareness and the role of breath work
  • Key muscle groups for pregnancy stability: glutes, core, and postural muscles
  • Adapting fitness routines to changing pregnancy stages
  • Social media influence and cultivating a supportive, authentic community

In this episode:

  • The impact of societal and social media expectations on pregnant bodies (0:52)
  • The importance of mindset flexibility and focusing on joy in movement (1:41)
  • Practical tips for developing body awareness through breath work and control (4:23)
  • How movement should support stability and function, not aesthetics (13:24)
  • The role of strength training in pregnancy and postpartum (14:04)
  • Modifying workouts based on trimester-specific needs (51:02)
  • Navigating social media influences and comparison traps during pregnancy (35:54)
  • Sammi’s personal journey into starting her fitness business dedicated to empowering moms (43:09)
  • The importance of self-compassion and accepting body changes (57:12)
  • Encouragement to find joy and purpose in movement during pregnancy (55:14)

If you live in NC, SC, or VA and want to work with Allie, contact her here:

www.nurturewithinnc.com

]]>03d60b76-1d1f-404d-b33b-c7865c36f21bSun, 28 Jun 2026 13:00:00 GMT<p>Contact Sammi: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/movementbysammi/" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/movementbysammi/</a></p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576662219934" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576662219934</a></p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.movementbysammi.com/" target="_blank">https://www.movementbysammi.com/</a></p><p></p><p>A heartfelt discussion on how to adapt movement and mindset throughout pregnancy, highlighting the importance of listening to your body and fostering self-compassion for a healthier pregnancy experience.</p><p></p><p><b>Main Topics</b></p><ul><li>Redefining expectations and embracing variability in pregnancy movement</li><li>Building body awareness and the role of breath work</li><li>Key muscle groups for pregnancy stability: glutes, core, and postural muscles</li><li>Adapting fitness routines to changing pregnancy stages</li><li>Social media influence and cultivating a supportive, authentic community<p></p></li></ul><p><b>In this episode:</b></p><ul><li>The impact of societal and social media expectations on pregnant bodies (0:52)</li><li>The importance of mindset flexibility and focusing on joy in movement (1:41)</li><li>Practical tips for developing body awareness through breath work and control (4:23)</li><li>How movement should support stability and function, not aesthetics (13:24)</li><li>The role of strength training in pregnancy and postpartum (14:04)</li><li>Modifying workouts based on trimester-specific needs (51:02)</li><li>Navigating social media influences and comparison traps during pregnancy (35:54)</li><li>Sammi’s personal journey into starting her fitness business dedicated to empowering moms (43:09)</li><li>The importance of self-compassion and accepting body changes (57:12)</li><li>Encouragement to find joy and purpose in movement during pregnancy (55:14)</li></ul><p></p><p>If you live in NC, SC, or VA and want to work with Allie, contact her here:</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.nurturewithinnc.com/" target="_blank">www.nurturewithinnc.com</a></p>no00:59:46Episode 4: Movement During Pregnancyfull<![CDATA[Episode 3: Pregnancy Myths Part 2]]>The episode continues the conversation with Katherine, focusing on the myths and challenges of pregnancy, postpartum, and mental health. The themes include the misconception about breastfeeding being easy and natural, the pressure to have the 'perfect' birth experience, and the stigma and misinformation surrounding psychiatric medication during pregnancy. The conversation delves into the myths and expectations surrounding pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum experiences. It emphasizes the importance of flexibility, nuance, and seeking support. The speakers share personal experiences and advocate for open conversations about the challenges of perinatal experiences.

Takeaways

  • Breastfeeding is not always easy and natural, and the pressure to have a 'perfect' birth experience can lead to unrealistic expectations.
  • The stigma and misinformation surrounding psychiatric medication during pregnancy can create unnecessary fear and shame for expectant parents. Flexibility and nuance are crucial in navigating the myths and expectations of perinatal experiences.
  • Open conversations and seeking support are essential for managing the challenges of pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum experiences.

Live in NC or SC and want to work with Katherine? Contact her below: https://www.flourishandthrivenc.com/

Live in NC, SC, or VA and want to work with Allie? Contact her below: https://www.nurturewithinnc.com/

Connect with Mood and Brood

📱 Follow along on Instagram: @MoodAndBrood

If today's episode resonated with you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who may need it. Your support helps us reach more expecting and new parents.

Need Support?

If you are struggling during pregnancy or postpartum, please know that support is available and recovery is possible.

🤍 Postpartum Support International (PSI)
Call or Text: 1-800-944-4773
Website: postpartum.net

For immediate mental health emergencies, call 911 or 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) in the United States.

Disclaimer

Mood and Brood is intended for educational and informational purposes only. The content shared on this podcast is not therapy, medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and listening does not establish a therapist-client relationship. Please consult your healthcare provider or mental health professional regarding your individual needs.

]]>804709e8-b703-4449-a01f-ae9eefab4ff3Sun, 14 Jun 2026 13:26:19 GMT<p>The episode continues the conversation with Katherine, focusing on the myths and challenges of pregnancy, postpartum, and mental health. The themes include the misconception about breastfeeding being easy and natural, the pressure to have the 'perfect' birth experience, and the stigma and misinformation surrounding psychiatric medication during pregnancy. The conversation delves into the myths and expectations surrounding pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum experiences. It emphasizes the importance of flexibility, nuance, and seeking support. The speakers share personal experiences and advocate for open conversations about the challenges of perinatal experiences.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Breastfeeding is not always easy and natural, and the pressure to have a 'perfect' birth experience can lead to unrealistic expectations.</li><li>The stigma and misinformation surrounding psychiatric medication during pregnancy can create unnecessary fear and shame for expectant parents. Flexibility and nuance are crucial in navigating the myths and expectations of perinatal experiences.</li><li>Open conversations and seeking support are essential for managing the challenges of pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum experiences.</li></ul><p></p><p>Live in NC or SC and want to work with Katherine? Contact her below: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.flourishandthrivenc.com/" target="_blank">https://www.flourishandthrivenc.com/</a></p><p> </p><p>Live in NC, SC, or VA and want to work with Allie? Contact her below: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.nurturewithinnc.com/" target="_blank">https://www.nurturewithinnc.com/</a></p><p></p><p><b>Connect with Mood and Brood</b></p><p>📱 Follow along on Instagram: @MoodAndBrood</p><p>If today's episode resonated with you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who may need it. Your support helps us reach more expecting and new parents.</p><p><b>Need Support?</b></p><p>If you are struggling during pregnancy or postpartum, please know that support is available and recovery is possible.</p><p>🤍 Postpartum Support International (PSI)<br />Call or Text: 1-800-944-4773<br />Website: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://postpartum.net" target="_blank">postpartum.net</a></p><p>For immediate mental health emergencies, call 911 or 988 (Suicide &amp; Crisis Lifeline) in the United States.</p><p><b>Disclaimer</b></p><p>Mood and Brood is intended for educational and informational purposes only. The content shared on this podcast is not therapy, medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and listening does not establish a therapist-client relationship. Please consult your healthcare provider or mental health professional regarding your individual needs.</p><p></p><p></p>yes00:54:36Episode 3: Pregnancy Myths Part 2full<![CDATA[Episode 2: Pregnancy Myths Part 1]]>The conversation delves into the myths and realities of pregnancy, addressing the themes of shame, connection, and disappointment. It explores the impact of societal expectations on pregnant individuals and the experience of shame and guilt. Additionally, it discusses the debunking of pregnancy myths and the complexities of feeling connected and experiencing disappointment during pregnancy. The conversation delves into the emotional aspects of parenthood, addressing the grieving process and the experience of shame. It also explores the differences in experiences between partners and debunks the myths surrounding pregnancy doubts.

Takeaways

  • Pregnancy myths and shame
  • Connection and disappointment in pregnancy Grieving process
  • Different experiences in parenthood
  • Doubts in pregnancy

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction and Pregnancy Myths
  • 06:23 Identifying Shame
  • 12:23 Debunking Pregnancy Myths
  • 20:02 The Myth of Pregnancy Glow
  • 27:58 Navigating Grief and Shame
  • 39:09 Myth of Same Pregnancy Experience
]]>b827abf3-9db5-40b3-9d46-5b16d81c8f78Sun, 31 May 2026 14:36:35 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the myths and realities of pregnancy, addressing the themes of shame, connection, and disappointment. It explores the impact of societal expectations on pregnant individuals and the experience of shame and guilt. Additionally, it discusses the debunking of pregnancy myths and the complexities of feeling connected and experiencing disappointment during pregnancy. The conversation delves into the emotional aspects of parenthood, addressing the grieving process and the experience of shame. It also explores the differences in experiences between partners and debunks the myths surrounding pregnancy doubts.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Pregnancy myths and shame</li><li>Connection and disappointment in pregnancy Grieving process</li><li>Different experiences in parenthood</li><li>Doubts in pregnancy</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction and Pregnancy Myths</li><li>06:23 Identifying Shame</li><li>12:23 Debunking Pregnancy Myths</li><li>20:02 The Myth of Pregnancy Glow</li><li>27:58 Navigating Grief and Shame</li><li>39:09 Myth of Same Pregnancy Experience</li></ul>no00:46:46Episode 2: Pregnancy Myths Part 1full<![CDATA[Episode 1: Preparing for Parenthood: Beyond the Baby Gear]]>The episode explores the difference between external and internal preparation for parenthood, highlighting the need for internal reflection and seeking support from perinatal therapists. It emphasizes the inadequacy of external preparation alone and the importance of acknowledging and addressing internal doors of reflection and awareness.

Takeaways

  • External vs Internal Preparation
  • Seeking Perinatal Therapist Support

Chapters

  • 00:00 The External vs Internal Preparation
  • 06:10 The Shift Towards External Focus After Loss of Control
  • 13:11 The Role of Therapeutic Space in Internal Work
  • 24:10 The Difference Between External and Internal Preparation
]]>f19da369-1c92-4753-bcc8-748960b3503bSun, 31 May 2026 14:33:37 GMT<p>The episode explores the difference between external and internal preparation for parenthood, highlighting the need for internal reflection and seeking support from perinatal therapists. It emphasizes the inadequacy of external preparation alone and the importance of acknowledging and addressing internal doors of reflection and awareness.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>External vs Internal Preparation</li><li>Seeking Perinatal Therapist Support</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 The External vs Internal Preparation</li><li>06:10 The Shift Towards External Focus After Loss of Control</li><li>13:11 The Role of Therapeutic Space in Internal Work</li><li>24:10 The Difference Between External and Internal Preparation</li></ul>yes00:25:59Episode 1: Preparing for Parenthood: Beyond the Baby Gearfull<![CDATA[Mood and Brood Trailer ]]>Mood and Brood is a podcast that delves into the real emotional experience of becoming a parent, offering honest conversations and insights. The introduction sets the stage for the podcast's purpose, while the discussion explores the emotional complexity of parenthood and the podcast's mission to provide a space for honest, emotionally intelligent conversations.

Takeaways

  • Real emotional experience
  • Honest conversation

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Mood and Brood
]]>9947e988-cf24-4f8f-a399-4535bfa9c7d0Sun, 31 May 2026 14:20:38 GMT<p>Mood and Brood is a podcast that delves into the real emotional experience of becoming a parent, offering honest conversations and insights. The introduction sets the stage for the podcast's purpose, while the discussion explores the emotional complexity of parenthood and the podcast's mission to provide a space for honest, emotionally intelligent conversations.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Real emotional experience</li><li>Honest conversation</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Mood and Brood</li></ul>no00:04:00Mood and Brood Trailer trailer