Shows
BDA Baby (Before, During and After Baby)Postpartum Anxiety, Identity Shifts & the Power of Your BrainIn this episode, I’m joined by clinical psychologist and author Dr. Nikki Pensak to talk all about the postpartum brain—what’s really happening neurologically after birth, why it can feel so overwhelming, and how we can shift the narrative from “mom brain” to one of strength and growth. Dr. Nikki breaks down the science behind the brain’s transformation in motherhood, explains why this time can leave us feeling so emotionally rattled, and shares practical tools for calming new mom anxiety. We also talk about postpartum depression, anxiety, and OCD—how to know when something is more than just “baby blu...2025-05-1522 min
Moms with BenefitsThe Science of Motherhood: Breaking Stigmas & Embracing Postpartum RealitiesDr. Nikki Pensak is a working mom of 2 and after dedicating her work to supporting the medical field, she turned her interest and research to understanding how to support the caregivers in the room best. To her, mothers are the ultimate caregivers, and this has inspired her most recent book Rattled which breaks down the science of motherhood and matrescence. Dr. Nikki Pensak is a clinical psychologist, researcher specializing in treating postpartum mental health issues, author, and TEDx Speaker.
In their uplifting conversation, Dr. Nikki and host Samantha Saxby discuss:
Understanding the Neurocognitive Development of M...2024-10-1533 min
The Birth Trauma Mama PodcastEp. 117: The Anxiety of MotherhoodOn this week's episode, we welcome Dr. Nikki Pensak - a licensed clinical psychologist certified in perinatal mental health. Dr. Pensak is the author of "RATTLED" which discusses how to calm new mom anxiety with the power of the postpartum brain. On this episode, you will hear:- perinatal anxiety- addressing mom guilt and shame- managing anxiety and detaching from constant monitoring- reframing "mommy brain" and embracing cognitive boosts- the intersection of anxiety and trauma in motherhood- the pressure to be a perfect parent and the i...2024-10-0734 min
Dear Dr. TracyMatrescence & Beyond: Redefining Mommy Brain with Dr. Nikki PensakIt’s safe to say that "mommy brain" is due for a rebrand! In this episode, Dr. Tracy sits down with Dr. Nikki Pensak, a clinical psychologist, TEDx speaker and author of "Rattled," to discuss the challenges and opportunities of motherhood, particularly during the postpartum period. Dr. Nikki shares her journey from academia to becoming a mother, emphasizing the mental health needs of mothers often overlooked. They discuss the transformation of the maternal brain during matrescence, the pressures of social media, and the reality of baby bonding and breastfeeding challenges. Dr. Nikki rebrands "mommy brain" as a brilliant adaptation to...2024-07-2546 min
Mom and Mind342: "Rattled" How to Calm New Mom Anxiety with Nicole Amoyal Pensak, Ph. D., PMH-CSo many changes happen in the transition to motherhood, and these shifts run the gamut from physical, mental, emotional, and social changes to even chemical changes in the brain. I’m joined today by the author of Rattled: How to Calm New Mom Anxiety with the Power of the Postpartum Brain. Join us for an informative discussion on this important topic.Dr. Nikki Pensak is a clinical psychologist specializing in perinatal mental health and providing evidence-based therapy to her patients. She also serves on the Expert Review Board for Parents Magazine, the Expert Board of Providers for Mo...2024-06-0334 min
More of What MattersRattled: The Postpartum Journey with Dr. Nikki Pensak on Providing Essential Care, Overcoming Mom Guilt, and Embracing the Beautiful Challenges of MotherhoodHello, friends! In this episode, I invited Dr. Nikki Pensak back on the podcast to share about her new book, Rattled: How to Calm New Mom Anxiety with the Power of the Postpartum Brain. Dr. Nikki shares her expertise as a licensed clinical psychologist and mother of two, highlighting the importance of proactive postpartum care for mothers. In this conversation, we explore the challenges faced by mothers, the impact of mom guilt, strategies for coping with postpartum issues, and the significance of addressing maternal neuroplasticity.
To learn more about Dr. Nikki Pensak and to...2024-05-2944 min
Post Traumatic ParentingEmbracing Matrescence: The Strengths & Struggles of Motherhood with Dr. Nicole PensakAre you navigating the rollercoaster of matrescence and feeling overwhelmed? You're not alone! Dive into today's conversation with Dr. Nikki Pensack, author of "Rattled," where we peel back the layers of becoming a new parent, discussing why this transformation is a normative trauma, regardless of your background or education.You'll discover how your brain's incredible ability for self-directed neuroplasticity during motherhood can be your ally in achieving post-traumatic growth. Plus, you'll learn to embrace the 'mommy brain' as a badge of honor, showcasing your newfound emotional intelligence and multitasking prowess. This episode is a...2024-04-2549 min
Working Mom HourDr. Nikki Pensak Talks Rattled | Part 2Welcome back to Part 2 as we continue our enlightening conversation with Dr. Nikki Pensak. In this bonus episode, she shares her journey of writing her new book, ‘Rattled’ and how she decided to blend personal anecdotes with professional expertise to create a digestible guide for mothers. Personally, we can’t wait to add this to our reading list.1:18 - The writing process of “Rattled”3:32 - Addressing the idea that it's never too late to seek help4:45 - Importance of not projecting personal experiences onto children5:30 - A tool for working motherhood: being present with children2024-04-0909 minWorking Mom HourThe Power of the Postpartum Brain with Dr. Nikki Pensak - Part 1Postpartum can be a complex time in motherhood, as it is often linked with feelings of depression, anxiety, or similar challenges. Today, we're privileged to bring back trained clinical psychologist, Dr. Nikki Pensak, to talk about postpartum mental health, and her new book, RATTLED, which dives into how to manage and calm new mom anxiety.Rather than viewing this developmental phase through a lens of struggle, Dr. Nikki helps us see it as a time ripe with potential. She explains how our brains change during this time, why our feelings might not match up, and...2024-04-0255 min
Carl Her Mommy Motherhood As We Know ItMom Guilt, Marriage After Kids, & Mental Load Of Motherhood with Dr. Nikki PensakIn this episode Carlie interviews Clinical Psychologist Dr. Nikki Pensak about all things motherhood: mom guilt, mental health, marriage after kids & more. If you enjoy the episode be sure to check out Dr. Nikki's new book Rattled that elaborates on this conversation and so much more. Thank you so much for listening! If you enjoy this episode please rate/review/subscribe & share with a mama who could benefit from this discussion. Follow along for more relatable mom content on Instagram/TikTok @CarlHerMommy and tune in for Mom Poll Mondays every Monday on Instagram Stories where the community w...2024-03-1851 min
Motherhood Meets MedicineMatrescence and the Maternal Brain with Nikki PensakYour postpartum brain is amazing. Not only is your body going through the physical changes that come with motherhood, but your brain is processing a ton of hormones and inputs that help you take care of your new baby. Matrescence is essentially the process of becoming a mother. It’s a word that describes what your brain and body are going through as you leave the world of pre-motherhood and prepare to usher life into the world. Here to share more is Dr. Nikki Pensak.Dr. Nikki is a Clinical Psychologist, author and researcher specializing in...2024-02-2852 min
Lady Parts DoctorWhen Motherhood Leaves You RattledJoin Dr. Hack in a captivating episode as she explores the journey of motherhood with Dr. Nikki Pensak, PhD, a clinical psychologist specializing in maternal mental health. Together, they delve into the concept of matrescence, the transformative process of becoming a mother. Dr. Pensak also introduces her new book, "Rattled," a groundbreaking exploration of maternal mental health that offers invaluable insights and support. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that sheds light on the emotional and psychological aspects of motherhood, providing guidance and understanding for every stage of the journey.2024-01-3042 min