Karen Stoteraux - Podcast Details

Shows

We Are The Family RoomEp 92 - Summer Break...See You in the Fall!Karen shares that the podcast will be on a summer break and why! We can't wait to be back in the Fall with new episodes, stories, and support. Wishing our podcast family a great summer!Love the show? Subscribe, Rate, & Review! https://www.familyroomcenter.com/podcast/2024-05-2103 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 91 - One and Done: Cara and Snow's StoriesFamilies with one child are far more common in the United States today than ever before, outnumbering two-child families for several decades. Yet, stereotypes and pressure still persist. On the podcast to talk with Karen about their families' decision to have one child is Cara Purgason and Snow Lau. Cara and Snow attended the same Parent & Me group with their sons years ago and have stayed really good friends. While Cara and Snow both have one child, their feelings and experiences around the decision are very different!Cara and Snow share: - If they di...2024-05-1435 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 90 - Alcohol-Free in Motherhood: Vanessa's StoryMommy wine culture is pervasive and drinking while parenting has been normalized in recent years. For many people, having a drink at night can feel like a reward for a hard day of parenting. Some parents find their alcohol consumption actually increases after kids as a way to not only reward themselves, but to reconnect with their relaxed and carefree past. There is a debate about how mom wine culture could be a troubling trend and is proof that the pressures of modern parenting are simply too much.On the podcast to share her story is Vanessa G...2024-05-0743 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 89 - Birth Trauma: Marielle's StoryWe do want to share a trigger warning, as the content of the episode may be emotionally challenging. We always encourage listeners to check in with themselves and listen to how you are feeling.Birth trauma is described as any physical or emotional distress you may experience during childbirth. According to the National Institutes of Health, up to 45% of new mothers experience birth trauma—and the repercussions of the experience can continue long after the birth itself affecting the postpartum period.Back on the podcast with me today is Marielle Skouras. You may remember Marielle fr...2024-04-3037 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 88 - Karen Brings James on the Show!Karen often talks about her husband James on the show, so she decided to bring him for a special episode! Karen was a single mom when she met James and they discuss the early days of dating, who said I love you first, what it is like parenting three girls, what he thought when Karen told him she wanted to open The Family Room, and so much more. Love the show? Subscribe, Rate, & Review! https://www.familyroomcenter.com/podcast/2024-04-2358 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 87 - Three Things You Didn't Know About Acupuncture & Herbal MedicineToday on the podcast we are talking all about acupuncture and herbal medicine with Dr. Beck Hoehn. Acupuncture can help with things from pain management to illness and infertility. Living in Los Angeles, acupuncture feels very accessible and prevalent in our communities, yet there are somethings you may still be surprised to learn!Dr. Hoehn is a neighbor of ours in Toluca Lake and specializes in women’s health. She is board certified in both acupuncture and herbal medicine and creates tailored wellness plans, setting achievable weekly milestones alongside her patients. With a master’s from Em...2024-04-1641 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 86 - Building a Life Around Nature: Daniela's StoryNature can be restorative and healing. On this episode, Karen chats with her friend Daniela Ray about her decision to move out of Los Angeles to connect with nature and where that decision has led her -- from homeschooling her two children, to running a nature school, becoming an herbalist, and starting her own business, Growing Up Rooted. Daniela shares:- why her family decided to move from Pasadena to Wrightwood and how the transition has gone- how the move changed her relationship with nature and her surroundings- her passion for h...2024-04-0950 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 85 - How Where You Grow Up Shapes You and Your Parenting: Bill's StoryWhere we decide to raise our children is a fascinating topic, as many families today are raising their children in different places than their own childhood. Karen explores this topic with Bill Sy, a dad in our community and team member at The Family Room. Karen met Bill almost ten years ago at playgroup in San Marino. Through chatting, she learned that Bill attended a boarding school not far from where she grew up. Bill is now on The Family Room team and Karen later learned that while his parents are from the Philippines, his childhood was spe...2024-04-021h 02

We Are The Family RoomEp 84 - Childhood Cancer: Elsa's StoryCancer is not common in kids, but when it happens to your family it can be the most terrifying experience of your life. The good news is that many childhood cancers are highly treatable. Here today to share her daughter’s story is Elsa Saldana. Many of you may know Elsa from our Toddler & Me program where she supports Gia or from playgroup in San Marino. It’s a story of an unbelievably scary diagnosis, but also one of hope. We are so grateful to Elsa for sharing. Love the show? Subscribe, Rate, & Review...2024-03-2658 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 83 - Having a Baby with Your Best Friend Who Is Not Your Romantic PartnerBrandi Andrews reached a point in her life when she was ready to have a baby. She was not in a romantic relationship and knew her path would be a bit less traditional as a lesbian woman. Her gay best friend Lawrence was also ready to have a baby, too. So after a lot of talking and a parental contract laying the foundation for a co-parenting framework, they decided to start the journey as parents together. Their journey was filmed and shared on 9 Months by Courtney Cox. Brandi shares her story from meeting Lawrence to co-parenting with him...2024-03-1954 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 82 - Going Back to School After Kids with Jaci DialMany parents consider a career change after having a baby and going back to school can be the stepping stone to a new professional path. While it can feel daunting to return to school as a parent, it does not mean it's impossible. On the podcast to share her story is Jaci Dial, a mom of two and former Family Room employee. Jaci always considered nursing school and decided to make the leap and start taking classes online during Covid. Jaci discusses the timing of going back to school and her path, how she balances sch...2024-03-1237 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 81 - Weight Bias in Pregnancy & So Much More: Jen McLellan from Plus Mommy PodcastIn this episode, Karen talks with Jen McLellan, founder of Plus Size Birth and host of the Plus Mommy Podcast about plus size pregnancy, weight bias, body love, and so much more. Jen is a certified childbirth educator, published author, advocate and mother. Her work has been featured everywhere from Good Morning America and the Today Show, to People and Glamour magazines and publications like The Bump and the National Institute of Health. Jen shares her insights, experience and knowledge, including: her story and why she created Plus Size Birth and then the Plus Mom...2024-03-0552 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 80 - Family Traditions with Denise PeyreFamily traditions are something Karen loves to talk about! She has done solo episodes touching on her own family traditions including special times of the year like Christmas and why she loves the Rose Parade. From old traditions that are passed down through generations and connect us to relatives to fun and silly ones you create new with your own family, Denise and Karen chat about why they are important and ones they love. Love the show? Subscribe, Rate, & Review! https://www.familyroomcenter.com/podcast/2024-02-2719 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 79 - How to Talk about Death with Kids with Lacey HolmquistTalking about dying and death with our children is something we will all eventually have to do, from a loved one to a pet, it is the natural course of life. What is overwhelming for parents is often confusing to kids and navigating how to manage grief with our children can be hard. On the podcast to talk about this very topic is Lacey Holmquist. Lacey has a masters in Child Life and has been a Certified Child Life Specialist for almost 20 years. Child life specialists work closely with children and families in medical settings, serving as e...2024-02-2055 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 78 - Infertility and IVF: Marielle's StoryAbout 1 and 5 women struggle with infertility. If you haven’t personally struggled with infertility yourself, you likely know someone who has. Infertility can feel all consuming, stressful, and lonely. Joining Karen on the podcast to talk about her story of infertility and IVF is Marielle Skouras. Marielle is a mom in our community, a licensed marriage and family therapist and we are so excited to announce will be leading our virtual Postpartum Support Group every Wednesday from 3 to 4 pm.One of the reasons Marielle decided to specialize in working with people struggling with infertility, pregnancy, and t...2024-02-1348 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 77 - Getting Let Go from Your Job When You are 9 Months Pregnant: Erin's StoryPreparing to leave your job for maternity leave can feel daunting with so many loose ends to tie up for a smooth transition. But what happens when you are let go from your job when you are 39 weeks pregnant? That is exactly what happened to our guest Erin Walnut. Erin shares:- what was available to her through state benefits and how she navigated the complicated system- managing the emotional rollercoster of job uncertainity during the transition into motherhood- applying for jobs just week after her daughter was born- what she...2024-02-0646 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 76 - What it's Like Being an Instagram Mom Influencer with Celeste WrightMom influencers are part of a multibillion dollar industry. Many of us have complicated feelings about social media, yet we can’t look away. Most of us follow influencers and learn about new products and tools to help win at motherhood. Making money on Instagram is a way for many moms to make money working flexible hours while still spending time with their young children. In this episode, we are going behind the scenes and having a candid conversation about what it is really like to be a mom influencer with Celeste Wright. Karen has known Celeste for...2024-01-301h 01

We Are The Family RoomEp 75 - Self-Care is Tricky with Kim-Lan DovanSelf-care has become a buzzword that is often associated with two things many new parents don’t have a lot of right now: time and money. It is relentlessly marketed to parents, especially moms as the answer for burnout, yet can often feel like yet another burden mothers are failing at. An article in Motherly described the double edge sword of self-care like this:“At its best, self-care reminds mothers that they matter, too. It tells them that prioritizing their own wellbeing doesn’t mean they’re neglecting their families. It gives mothers permission to put thems...2024-01-2340 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 74 - Homeschooling Three Children: Damore's StoryAn article in the Washington Post in October 2023 described homeschooling as America’s fastest-growing form of education-- by a wide margin. There is no doubt, that more and more families are embarking on non-traditional learning options. On the podcast to discuss her homeschooling journey with her three children is Damore Jensen. Karen met Damore when they were both new mothers in Boston and instantly became close friends. Damore was a big part of Karen's village in the early days of motherhood and continues to be a dear friend today. She was an obvious choice for this...2024-01-1649 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 73 - Being a Parent in HollywoodLos Angeles is the epicenter of the movie and entertainment world. Right in our backyard we have movie studios, production companies, actors, and various industries that support Hollywood. Being a parent in the entertainment industry brings with it its own unique challenges and that is exactly what we are talking about in this episode. Joining Karen is Emily Bolt, an LA based Actor, Teacher, Improviser and Mom. She is the creator/host of the Mommywood Podcast which provides a behind the scenes look into the realities motherhood and life in the entertainment industry. She is also...2024-01-0953 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 72 - Year End Bonus Episode, Including the Story Behind Why Karen Loves the Rose Parade!In this year-end bonus episode, Karen shares the story behind why she loves the Rose Parade so much! From childhood memories of the Mummer's Parade in Philadelphia to a promise she made to herself years later, the Rose Parade feels like magic to her every year. Learn why. A giant thank you for listening and sharing the podcast with others. We hope you have learned, smiled or laughed and felt supported. We are really looking forward to next season!We will be off for the holidays, but back with new episodes starting on January 10th. 2023-12-2206 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 71 - Secrets of a Postpartum DoulaEver wonder what exactly a postpartum doula does, what it is like being a postpartum doula, or interested in learning helpful postpartum tips from a doula today? We know feeling cared for and supported after birth and during the early weeks of parenthood can drastically improve the overall postpartum experience, which is exactly what a postpartum doula does.In this episode, Karen chats with Maria Pasqurelli, a postpartum doula here in Los Angeles about what it is like supporting families and what she has learned supporting so many. Karen and Maria specifically discuss: w...2023-12-1943 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 70 - Parenting Then and Now: Gia Discusses What Has Changed and What Hasn'tWith over 20 years of experience supporting thousands of families as a parenting educator, Gia Gambaro Blount has a front row seat to parenting and has seen many changes in parenting trends and philosophies over the years. Today on the podcast she shares some insights on what has changed since she started working with families and some common themes of what hasn't. While parenting is a process that constantly changes and evolves, Gia also shares some important tenets of parenting that we feel confident won't ever go off-trend.Love the show? Subscribe, Rate, & Review! 2023-12-1239 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 69 - Juggling Career and Motherhood with Jen Carfagno, On-Air Meterologist at The Weather ChannelJuggling a career and motherhood and all the implications to both your professional life and your parenting is often a hot topic at The Family Room. The day to day struggles of trying to balance conflicting priorities can feel overwhelming and often put us in a position where we feel like we are regularly letting someone down, being forced to make difficult decisions, and often comes with a lot of guilt. Joining Karen on this episode to discuss this topic is Jen Carfagno, on-air meteorologist at The Weather Channel, and co-host of America's Morning Headquarters. During her 20...2023-12-0558 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 68 - Raising Biracial Children, Part 2: Kwamina's StoryExperiences parenting multiracial children are unique and as diverse as the families are themselves, including different perspectives among parents within the same family. In this Part 2 episode, Karen speaks with Kwamina Amonoo-Neizer, Melissa's husband from Episode 62. If you haven’t listened to that episode yet, you should go back and listen as it was a really interesting discussion! Not only are Melissa and Kwamina different races, but there are many cultural differences, too, as Melissa is White and grew up in California, while Kwamina is Black and grew up in Ghana. From racism to Ghanian cultur...2023-11-2832 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 67 - Incorporating Chinese Postpartum Rituals as a Chinese American MomAround the world, cultures have different postpartum traditions and rituals to help support new mothers heal during the postnatal period. In many areas, that includes a confinement period of rest and special meals to promote recovery and lactation. The concept of Chinese confinement — “zuo yue zi,” or “sitting the month”— is when a new mother stays at home for one month to allow her body to rest after giving birth. In China, there are many resources for this practice, but for many Chinese Americans, the ancient traditions can feel very limiting and tensions can arise between mothers, daughters, an...2023-11-2147 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 66 - Raising a Transgender Child: Erica's StoryWe know sex assigned at birth and gender identity are two different things. In toddlers, the idea of gender identity can be very fluid, but generally around age 5 or 6, most children are rigid about gender and preferences often due to social pressures and other factors.The number of young people in the United States now openly identifying as a gender different from the one they were assigned at birth is surging amid growing recognition of transgender identity and rights, awareness, and acceptance. In this episode, Erica Peterson shares her experience raising her transgender daughter, Finn, in...2023-11-141h 17

We Are The Family RoomEp 65 - When Your Baby is in the NICU: Lucie's Story**Trigger Warning: Lucie's story includes a traumatic birth**A stay in the neonatal intensive care unit for your baby can feel like a rollercoaster ride you were forced to get on. Very few people know in advance their baby will need to spend time in the NICU and the reasons babies are sent there can vary greatly from additional monitoring needed to serious health issues. Some babies stay a few hours or days while others stay weeks or months. Regardless of the length of stay, it is a scary and overwhelming experience being separated from y...2023-11-071h 19

We Are The Family RoomEp 64 - How to Handle Holidays with Extended Family: From Travel to Unsolictied Advice, and More (Replay)Today we are replaying Episode 15 from Season 1 on how to handle the holidays with extended family and a baby. Last year around this time, we spoke with Kim-Lan Dovan, lead Parent and Me educator at The Family Room on how to navigate family expectations and dynamics during the holidays while also staying true to what is important to you and your parenting. The episode offers important perspective and so many great tips, we wanted to replay it. From parenting in front of our parents which is hard, to generational differences, basic logistics, like how do you handle the...2023-10-3148 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 63 - Getting Great Family Pictures: Advice from a ProIt is that time of year again when many parents are thinking about getting professional family pictures for holiday cards. It can be a stressful process from finding a photographer and picking a date, to buying coordinating outfits everyone likes, which can include multiple trips to Old Navy, to bribing the kids to smile nicely, and on and on.We take a million pictures of our children, but not as many family photos and many simply live on our phones. On the show today is Lucy Wang from Lucy Liora Photography to give us all t...2023-10-2438 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 62 - Raising Biracial Children: Melissa's StoryMore people are identifying as mixed race in the United State than ever before. The 2020 census showed a 256% jump in people identifying as multiracial over the previous 10 years. Mixed-race children are a growing part of that demographic.Raising multiracial children can present unique challenges for parents of any race, especially navigating issues related to racial identity and discrimination.Today on the show is Melissa Amonoo-Neizer. Melissa and her husband, Kwamina are the parents of two children. Melissa is White and grew up in California. Kwamina is Black and grew up in Ghana, where his extended...2023-10-1751 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 61 - Moving Your Family Abroad: Mia's StoryHave you ever wondered what it would be like to go on the adventure of moving your family abroad for a bit? You are not alone! Thanks to the increase in remote working, more and more families have packed their bags and moved overseas in recent times. On this episode, Karen talks with Mia Hemstad, a trauma informed self-care coach and a mental health advocate about her move overseas. Mia moved from California to Portugal with her husband and two young children. Seeking a different quality of life and the needing a break from the fast-paced hustle of...2023-10-101h 05

We Are The Family RoomEp 60 - Blending Religions and Raising Kids in a Faith You Were Not Raised InWhen it comes to having kids with a partner who practices a religion different from your own, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to blending faith and customs, especially for your children. Just like everything else in families, religions can be blended.Unlike older generations for whom incorporating religion into parenting was the norm, that is not the case today. Though having children can reconnect you to faith in an effort to pass down experiences, traditions, and beliefs. Lexsea Mann, Family Room Parent and Me educator, is back on the podcast with Karen to discuss blending tra...2023-10-0344 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 59 - Divorce With Young Kids: Melissa's StoryChildren need loving, attuned parents, not necessarily in the same house. Today on the podcast, we are talking about separation, co-parenting and divorce. Even the most amicable separation is life-changing for young children and parents. But it doesn’t have to damage the children in the long run. Being a content single parent and the best version of yourself is better than modeling an unhealthy relationship. It can be the right decision for your family and also the hardest. Back on the show today is Melissa Merritt. If you listen to the podcast, you will remember Melissa fro...2023-09-2649 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 58 - When Getting Pregnant the Second Time Isn't Easy: Liz's StorySecondary infertility — the inability to have another child after having a first — affects about 11 percent of couples and takes families by surprise. The reasons or lack of clear reasons are often the same for secondary infertility as primary infertility. And the emotions are often the same too, from sadness, to jealousy, and anger. But now, because you are already a parent, you are surrounded by people growing their families, which can make it extra painful.In this episode, Liz Fischer, friend of Karen and Family Room educator, shares her secondary infertility journey. After the birth of her son Hen...2023-09-191h 04

We Are The Family RoomEp 57 - Helping Your Little One Overcome Fear of Needles or the DoctorCold and flu season is quickly approaching and many of you have likely already scheduled your little one's flu shot. Did you know seven out of ten kids fear going to the doctor? Going to the doctor may never be something your child looks forward to doing, but it is an important part of staying healthy. As parents, there are things we can do to reduce the stress and anxiety of annual visits, shots, and even medical emergencies. Joining Karen on this episode is Rita Ho-Bezolla. Rita is an entrepreneur based in Los Angeles, mom to two, a...2023-09-1245 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 56 - Understanding and Managing Imposter Syndrome with Kim-Lan DovanSomething often shared by parents in many of our classes is a sense of imposter syndrome when it comes to their new roles as parents from doubting your abilities to a feeling of not belonging. Joining Karen this week is Kim-Lan Dovan, marriage and family therapist and lead Parent & Me educator to help us understand what imposter syndrome is, why it happens and what you can do to overcome it. Karen and Kim-Lan specifically discuss: why new parents are particularly susceptible to imposter syndromewhat are the effectsthe causes of imposter syndrome, including the pressure to...2023-09-0543 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 55 - Pregnancy Loss: Blakley's Story***Trigger Warning: Blakley's story contains loss. Please take care of yourself if you are not in the place to listen at this time***Between 10 and 15 percent of known pregnancies end in pregnancy loss, yet despite how common pregnancy loss is, many parents and families suffer in silence and don't get the support they need. On this episode Karen is joined by Blakley Graham who shares her story of stillbirth with her first son Elijah, how she healed and continues to do so, what pregnancy was like after loss, and how she remembers Elijah today. L...2023-08-2955 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 54 - Partners & Money Post-Baby: Two Tricky Topics in One!The dynamics of partner relationships is something we could probably talk about all the time, as there are so many elements of your relationship that change after having a baby. On this episode Karen chats with Ellie Baker, a relationship coach with degrees in psychology and counseling, specifically about making intentional decisions around work, childcare and money with your partner. These issue can cause great strain in a relationship as you both navigate new identities, pressure, and priorities. Ellie addresses the biggest pain points for couples when it comes to money, how to manage big income disparities in...2023-08-2241 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 53 - Karen Shares The Family Room StoryAs the We are The Family Room podcast hits its first year and The Family Room approaches year nine since opening our doors, we thought it was a good time for Karen to share The Family Room story! From her Mommy and Me class in Boston, to moving to Pasadena as a single mom, having twins and discovering the shocking lack of support for new parents, making a career change and taking the giant leap to create community, The Family Room story is a good reminder that life is not often linear and it is never too late to f...2023-08-1524 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 52 - Avoiding Sibling Comparisons and What to Do InsteadWe talk a lot about comparisons at The Family Room. Comparisons to other peoples experiences from pregnancy to early parenthood and beyond can make us feel terrible about our own journey. There is a popular saying that comparisons can be the thief of joy. Another comparison trap that everyone with two or more children has intentionally or unintentionally fallen into is sibling comparisons. In this episode Karen talks with Denise about sibling comparisons, why they are harmful, how to avoid falling into the comparison trap, what to do instead to promote sibling sibling relationships, and more. 2023-08-0852 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 51 - Managing Anxiety in an Uncertain World with Dr. Lauren CookAnxiety is one of the most common mental illnesses and can affect many of us in varying degrees. It’s hard not to be anxious in our modern world. Becoming a parent can increase anxiety even more with intensified concerns about the world and keeping our children safe.Dr. Lauren Cook joins Karen to talk about anxiety caused by everything from gun violence to everyday parenting concerns, tips to help manage it, and when to seek help. She also discusses her upcoming book Generation Anxiety: A Millennial and Gen Z Guide to Staying Afloat in an Uncertain Wo...2023-08-0152 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 50 - A Special Needs Journey, Part 2: Quinn's StoryAs a follow-up to Episode: 48, we continue the conversation about having a special needs journey with Elise's husband, Quinn. Karen speaks with Quinn about what the experience has been like for him. He speaks very candidly about his struggles in accepting his son's early diagnosis, learning to be ok with life looking different, the ways he and Elise encourage and help each other in their journey, and advice for anyone else going through it. Love the show? Subscribe, Rate, & Review! https://www.familyroomcenter.com/podcast/2023-07-2549 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 49 - Choosing a Dual Language Immersion School ProgramDual language immersion school programs have become increasingly more popular with more and more families considering them. On this episode Karen talks to Family Room mom Melissa Merritt about the ins and outs of enrolling her two children in dual language programs. Melissa's children started in a dual language preschool and then transitioned into a dual language kindergarten program. Melissa shares what it was like sending her non-native speakers into a classroom where they didn't know the language, how they adapted, all about researching, applying and choosing a dual language immersion kindergarten program and more. Lo...2023-07-1829 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 48 - A Special Needs Journey: Elise's StoryBeing a parent is hard. But being the parent of a child with special needs can seem downright impossible and completely overwhelming at times. In a candid conversation, Karen talks with Elise Lovejoy, a friend and Family Room mom all about navigating her son's Crosby's autism diagnosis. Elise shares their story from the early signs that her son had different challenges, to denial and diagnosis, how to fight for local and school based support, effects on relationships including friends and her partner, the importance of community, plus truly practical tips and valuable advice for anyone navigating a si...2023-07-1153 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 47 - Integrated Wellness for New ParentsWhile we many expecting couples take classes to learn how to care for their new babies, often parents don't consider how to take care of themselves during the life-changing transition and beyond. In this episode Karen is joined by Lauren Hays and Megan Dalton. Lauren Hays is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and boy mom to three. Lauren's co-founder Megan Dalton is a marketing guru and mom of 3 under 6. On a mission to change the landscape of maternal mental health and to identify its role and importance to overall wellness, they created The Matrescence -- a m...2023-07-0431 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 46 - Fostering Language Development 101Language development is an essential part of your child's growth. Speech and language impact your child's social interactions, behavior and academic skills. A whole new world opens up when your child can communicate with words! Speech and language delays are the most common type of developmental delay in children. Between five and twelve percent of children ages two to five years are diagnosed with a speech or language delay.Stephanie Masek, a speech and language therapist and owner of Jabber Dogs, a private speech, language, and occupational therapy group in San Marino joins Karen to...2023-06-2742 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 45 - Teaching and Modeling Body PositivityThis topic grew out of the What’s for Dinner discussion in Episode 38 with registered dietician Elise Compston. If you haven’t listened to that episode you should! It is hard to talk about food and not talk about feelings around food and our bodies. As we know, body image is complex, from the way we feel about our body to the way society values it. Children are exposed to thousands of messages every day about how to look and as media exposure continues to increase, talking to kids about body positivity is more important than ever.As p...2023-06-2046 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 44 -Retails Biggest Trend: Reimagining SecondhandChildren outgrow clothing quickly and often have items in their closets with tags on them from gifts yet to be worn. Buying secondhand clothing can not only save you money for the next ever-frequent growth spurt, but is an eco-friendly and sustainable option everyone should consider. In this episode Karen is joined by Samira Husein, the owner of Dakota + Rowan, a cute secondhand store located in Sierra Madre, California. Samira shares her tips to get the most out of shopping secondhand, how to find high quality pre-loved items, stigmas around thrifting, how the shopping process works, why a...2023-06-1348 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 43 - Early Intervention Through the Regional Center: What You Need to KnowEarly intervention is critical in addressing developmental delays and the good news is that there is support for you and your little one through the Regional Centers in California. They provide free services such as speech and language therapy, physical therapy, and occupational therapy to support your growing child. Many of our families have gained important support through the Regional Center, but not everyone knows about the resources that are available or how to navigate what can feel like a complicated system. Erin Rae is a mother of two who used the Regional Center to obtain speech a...2023-06-0641 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 42 - Parenting Differently than Your ParentsFor better or worse, how we parent is naturally influenced by our own childhood experiences. Some things we want to recreate because they made us feel good as children, and some things we feel strongly about doing differently. How we approach parenting is deeply rooted in our early experiences. Thinking about your own childhood can help you become more aware of the meaning behind your reaction toward your own child. Making sense of our own past, processing and creating a narrative of our experiences is critical in how we relate to our kids. In today's episode Sepideh H...2023-05-3035 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 41- Deciding to Have Another Baby (or Not!)For some families, the decision to have another child or when to stop having children is very clear, but for others it can be a harder, more complicated choice. Census data shows one child families are the fastest growing family unit in the United States. Only child families are expected to double in the U.S. by 2050. Maybe you thought you were a one and done family, but now you're not so sure. In this episode Karen is joined by Kim-Lan Dovan and Lexsea Mann, both Parent & Me educators, to talk about how they each made...2023-05-2359 min

Inspired Grownups with Alana BananaTaking Big Leaps, Starting a Business & Building Community with Karen StoterauxMy guest today, Karen Stoteraux, took a big leap of faith when she moved across country with her 3 year old after a divorce. We talked about how she found the courage to make the move and then create a community and space for new parents after her twins were born. Karen is the owner, founder, and CEO of The Family Room. Her passion for supporting women is tied to her own experience as a mother to three girls. After the birth of her twins, Karen was shocked by the lack of comprehensive support in her local community f...2023-05-2342 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 40- Fun Things to Do in L.A. with KidsFrom beaches, to mountains, museums, historical sites, hikes, playgrounds, gardens, libraries, cool neighborhoods to explore, and more, there is a lot to do in Los Angeles with kids. You don't have to go far or spend a lot of money to have an adventure! Exposing your children to culture and nature has numerous positive effects and getting out of the house can improve everyone's spirits, help you connect, have fun, and make memories. This episode focuses solely on kid-friendly activities in Los Angeles to help you take advantage of everything the area has to offer. Mars Tekosky, the...2023-05-1648 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 39 - Single Mother By ChoiceIn this episode, Karen is joined by Mallyce Miller, a single mom by choice in our community. Becoming a single mother by choice is an increasingly popular path to motherhood thanks to more awareness, resources, and community to share experiences. Mallyce speaks about her journey to motherhood from knowing when the time was right, the process of choosing an egg donor and getting pregnant, reactions from family and friends, the power of community, barriers many women face, the challenges (and joys!) of raising a child without a partner and more! Having the courage to fulfill a lifelong d...2023-05-0929 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 38 - What's For Dinner?Who knew that the hardest part of being an adult is figuring out what to cook for dinner every single night for the rest of your life? And in making meals for families, it gets a whole lot more complicated between the time pressures, financial considerations, and feeding challenges of young kids. In this episode Karen is joined by registered dietitian and recipe developer Elise Compston to talk about some of her best tips, tricks, and ideas for getting dinner on the table every night, plus breakfast and lunch suggestions, too. Elise also helps take off some of the me...2023-05-0236 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 37- Having a Baby as a Gay Couple with David ReedGrowing your family can feel like a daunting task, but for LGBTQ couples there are logistical issues, legal hurdles, and financial obstacles that heterosexual couples rarely consider or ever need to deal with. In this episode Karen is joined by David Reed who, along with his husband Chris, used an egg donor and surrogate to have their beautiful baby Olive Grace. David shares the entire process, including picking an egg donor and surrogate, the legal and financial considerations, making the road trip home with their just days old baby, and so much more!Love the show? Subscribe, Ra...2023-04-2537 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 36 - Raising Environmentalists with Jacob ReedIn honor of Earth Day, Karen talks with Jacob Reed about raising environmentalists and simple things to do to help save the planet. It can be a scary and overwhelming proposition to think about climate change and the crises we will leave to our children to solve, but inaction is irresponsible and making small simple changes can help us feel more active and be part of the solution. While many of us as individuals thoughtfully work hard to reduce our carbon footprint, Jacob centers the discussion on the primary role and immense impact of big business on dam...2023-04-181h 04

We Are The Family RoomEp 35 - What is Matrescence and Why Is It ImportantDuring adolescence children’s bodies change, they grow figuratively and literally, they navigate social and emotional shifts and how they relate to the world. It can be an awkward time and it is understood not to be a blissful phase of life. Something very similar happens when we become mothers and there is a word for it, matrescence. Just like adolescence, it is a transitionary period. Karen recently spoke with Evelyn Gama, a licensed clinical social worker specializing in perinatal mental health about this all-encompassing time of change in a mother’s life. Evelyn talks about...2023-04-1136 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 34 - Fostering to Adopt with Alana GentryThe process of fostering a child to adopt is an emotionally challenging time full of uncertainty. It is deeply personal and usually not linear. On this episode Karen is joined by Alana Gentry. Alana is a songwriter and star of the Alana Banana Show, host of the Inspired Grown-up Podcast, and a truly special human to share her journey through the foster to adopt process. Alana and her husband Erik tried to have a baby for years. As many of you know, the process is emotionally and physically draining.Alana discusses how they decided foster to a...2023-04-0448 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 33 - Potty Training 101 with Gia Gambaro BlountDitching diapers is a milestone that many parents anxiously look forward to their little one reaching one day. It can seem like a daunting task and many parents don’t know where to start. If you google potty training help, you will find nothing short of 55 million links to help you sort it out, which seems like the most unhelpful internet search ever. From setting your child up for success, to pull nights and night training, regression, and so much more, this episode is a must listen for anyone who hasn't potty trained yet. You can connect with...2023-03-2855 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 32 - Two Moms: Six Birth Stories!We love birth stories! Together Karen and Caryn Fields, doula and Family Room educator, have six daughters and births as different as the children are. Karen talks about her labor and delivery with her oldest child and also what it was like delivering twins vaginally. Caryn chose to deliver her daughters in different places from a hospital, to a birth center and then a home birth. They talk about what they hoped for, what they remember most, and learned from each one. Their conversation ultimately reminds us that no two birth stories are the same. Love the show? Sub...2023-03-2150 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 31 - Disneyland Tips with Gabby ParkerIn this episode Karen talks with Disneyland regular, Gabby Parker about her tips and tricks for navigating the happiest place on earth! A little planning can go a long way in making your trip as fun as you hoped. Gabby gives practical tips on figuring out the best time to get to the park, how to plan your day, setting expectations based on your little one's age, and her favorite parts of Disney with her boys. Love the show? Subscribe, Rate, & Review! https://www.familyroomcenter.com/podcast/2023-03-1442 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 30 - Postpartum Depression with Courtney NovakPostpartum depression and anxiety disorders are the number one complication of childbirth, and still today there are barriers to getting help. In this episode Karen talks with author and podcaster Courtney Novak about her experiences with postpartum depression, how she felt, how she got help, and her advice for anyone going through it now. Karen met Courtney when Courtney asked if she could hold her peer-to-peer support group at The Family Room over five years ago. Courtney supported moms through her group, her book, and podcast and continues to talk about depression and anxiety today. Courtney Novak is...2023-03-0735 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 29 - Mothering Without a Mother with Martha HayesIn this episode Karen talks with Martha Hayes, a mom (and friend of Lexsea!) about the loss of her mother and the impact of that loss when she became a mother, too. Many women turn to their own mothers for guidance, reassurance, and support the minute the pregnancy tests turns positive, but when you become a mother without one yourself, it can bring up a range of emotions from sadness, to anger and jealousy. Grief is personal and unpredictable and can reappear as you transition into parenthood. Martha talks about moments she wishes her mom wa...2023-02-2834 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 28 - My Story: Being a Surrogate with Nikki ArakawaIn this week's episode, Karen talks with Nikki Arakawa, a mom in our community who was a gestational surrogate for a family. For many, the path to parenthood is not always easy or how you may have envisioned it, but surrogacy is a growing option for many families, including the LGBTQ community. Surrogacy can help make the dream of having a family come true for many and is more openly discussed now more than ever. Nikki shares her surrogacy story, from how she become one and met the family she ultimately was a surrogate for, her pregnancy...2023-02-2144 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 27 - Partner Relationships After a BabyOn this Valentine's Day episode Karen talks to Kim-Lan Dovan, lead Parent & Me educator and marriage and family therapist about the transition of going from a couple to a family and the affects on a relationship. Kim-Lan gives helpful tips on navigating shifting priorities, maintaining your identity as a couple, and finding room for connection with your partner among ALL the other things you have to do. Love the show? Subscribe, Rate, & Review! https://www.familyroomcenter.com/podcast/2023-02-1443 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 26 - Making Careers Changes After a Baby with Jennifer RizzottiNew motherhood changes our relationships, our identity, and often how we view our work or careers now that our priorities have changed. Career coach Jennifer Rizzotti in on the podcast to discuss everything that goes into a career pivot. She offers actionable steps to start exploring a new job, career or path, the questions you should ask yourself, and how to get unstuck. Jen and Karen both share their own personal career journeys (spoiler: they are not linear!) and all the twists and turns involved to highlight the challenges and successes of being open to new possibilities and taking l...2023-02-0748 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 25 - A VBAC Story with Laura BirekLaura Birek, co-host of the Big Fat Positive Podcast and Family Room VIP, shares her VBAC story (vaginal birth after cesarean) with Karen on the podcast. Laura shares how she approached the VBAC, her thoughts on the expectations around VBACs, what her doctor recommended, details about the delivery, and more. Laura is a filmmaker, author, and host of the podcast Big Fat Positive. You can connect with her here:Instagram: bfppodcastPodcast: bigfatpositivepodcast.comBFP Episode on Laura's VBAC: Ep. 139: Laura’s Surprise VBAC Birth StoryLove the s...2023-01-3046 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 24 - Surviving Postpartum Cardiomyopathy: Kimberly's Story [Trigger Warning: Loss]***Trigger Warning: Kimberly's story contains loss. Please take care of yourself if you are not in the place to listen at this time***Kimberly's inspiring story includes unimaginable loss, and a rare form of heart failure due to pregnancy and postpartum. It is also a story of hope. She joins the podcast to share her experience, educate others on Postpartum Cardiomyopathy (PPCM), and give a very important and sometimes life-saving reminder to always listen to your body and advocate for yourself when you feel like something is not right. Kimberly is strong, inspiring, and bright light in o...2023-01-2443 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 23 - Breastfeeding: Fact or Fiction with Jessica Claire, IBCLCThere is a lot of misinformation about breastfeeding out there! Karen is joined by Jessica Claire, IBCLC and Family Room educator, to dispel common myths about breastfeeding, like is it supposed to hurt in the beginning? Can you consume coffee and/or alcohol safely? Should you wean at one year? Tune in to get the answers to some of the most common questions. Jessica Claire, is an international board certified lactation consultant, facilitates the feeding support group at The Family Room as well as the prenatal breastfeeding class. Jessica also supports families virtually and in Los Angeles. Co...2023-01-1746 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 22 - Insights from a Dad with Roman GuptaTo kick-off off Season 2, Karen talks with Roman Gupta, LCSW and dad, about his experience of becoming a father. We often share the motherhood perspective and this week, dove deep into what it is like being a dad today with Roman. He shares insights about his transition to fatherhood at the height of the pandemic, society's expectations of fathers, breaking through gender norms, how he found community, what it was like coming to The Family Room as a dad, and important advice for new dads. Roman references a study about how fatherhood changes men's brains. To...2023-01-1044 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 21 - Karen's Holiday Traditions and Season Wrap-upIn the last episode of the season, Karen talks about some of her family's traditions during the holidays from cookie baking to The Rose Parade and more.We Are The Family Room will be back with season 2 on January 10, 2023. In this next season, we want to hear from YOU! From your birth stories, postpartum experiences and more, we are excited to share your stories, your voices, and, your perspectives. Please email the podcast: podcast@familyroomcenter.com if you have a parenting or postpartum story to share or for more information. In the episode Karen references Th...2022-12-2010 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 20 - Returning to Sex Postpartum with Linda Sayyad, DPTWhether you've had a vaginal or cesarean birth, returning to sex postpartum can be anxiety producing for many! In this episode, Karen is joined by pelvic floor physical therapist and owner of FeminoCentric Physical Therapy and Wellness, Linda Sayyad to discuss how to ease back into sex postpartum including, open communication with your partner, preparing the tissues with exercises and massage (not kegels!), planning ahead for sex, and more. Linda helps demystify what is going on in your body and when it might be helpful to see a pelvic floor pt. To connect with Linda Sayaad: W...2022-12-1336 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 19 - All About Car Seat Safety with Laura BrownToday on the podcast Karen talks with Laura Brown, licensed car seat technician and mom of five, about how to keep children safe in their car seat. Karen and Laura discuss topics such as the difference between an infant car seat vs. a convertible seat, when to transition out of the infant car seat, where to position the seat in the car, tips for traveling, and common car seat mistakes. Laura also talks about the value of hiring a car seat safety technician to teach you how to properly install your seat and debunks the myth that you can...2022-12-0635 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 18 - Ideas for Thoughtful Gifting with Lexsea MannWith the holidays coming up quickly, you are likely making your list of gifts to get for your kids and loved ones. In this episode, Karen is joined again by Lexsea Mann, Parent & Me educator at The Family Room and mom of three, to talk about how to thoughtfully buy gifts that your kids will enjoy for years to come. Lexsea and Karen talk about choosing toys that will grow with your kids such as collections you can continue to add to, toys that can be used in imagination play, and toys that can be used across age groups. B...2022-11-2939 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 17 - Setting the Foundation for Oral Health with Dr. Bethany Kum, DDSOral health is so important to our overall health and well being and knowing how to support our children to establish oral health is vital. In this episode Karen talks with Dr. Bethany Kum, a dentist who performs tongue and lip tie revisions and mom in our community, all about oral health for our kids including, when to take your baby to the dentist, when to start brushing baby's teeth, and ways we can help limit the chance of cavities. Dr. Bethany also talks about tongue and lip ties including when and how to seek support if you suspect...2022-11-2234 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 16 - Yoga Really is For Every Body with Denise PeyreThere is no other time in your life than pregnancy and postpartum, when major physical changes combine with the transformative experience of becoming a parent, that make yoga so impactful. In this episode Karen talks with Denise Peyre, Family Room educator and certified yoga instructor, about having a yoga practice in pregnancy and early motherhood. Denise shares her personal experience with yoga, the many benefits of yoga in pregnancy and postpartum, debunks some common myths, and shares how a yoga practice can benefit parents even when you are not on the mat. Love the show? Subscribe, Rate, & R...2022-11-1534 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 15 - Tricky Extended Family Dynamics and how to Handle: Holiday Edition with Kim-Lan DovanWith the holidays right around the corner, many of us will be navigating family expectations and dynamics. If you are a parent, or a new parent, this adds another layer. Karen is joined by Kim-Lan Dovan, parent & me educator at The Family Room, to discuss some common situations that can arise and ideas of how to navigate those situations, some of which include: comments and unsolicited advice on your parenting, protests or eye rolls about baby's schedule, relatives passing around the baby, overstimulated kids, and general tips on how to make the holidays enjoyable for everyone. Love t...2022-11-0847 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 14 - The Importance of Friendship in Motherhood with Dr. Veronica Eyo, LCSWIn this episode, Karen is joined by Dr. Veronica Eyo to discuss the importance of friendship in motherhood. Karen and Veronica discuss how vital friendships are especially during such a big transition as becoming a parent, the benefits of friendship, how to move from the playdate to a deeper friendship, and how to put yourself out there (hint: it's kind of like dating). Dr. Veronica Eyo is a licensed clinical social worker offering individual and couples therapy. To connect: instagram: @drveronicaeyoemail: hello@drveronicalcsw.comwebsite: drveronicalcsw.com Love the show? Su...2022-11-0136 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 13 - Teaching Body Safety with Gia Gamboro BlountOn this week's episode, Karen is joined by Gia Gamboro Blount to discuss body autonomy, body consent and body safety. Gia explains the importance of supporting your child's autonomy in eating, sleeping, and toileting; using anatomically correct terms, teaching and modeling the concept of listening to your gut, recognizing tricky people, and when to start broaching consent and safety topics based on when your child is developmentally ready. *Content warning: this episode does include brief discussion on sexual abuse. Love the show? Subscribe, Rate, & Review! https://www.familyroomcenter.com/podcast/2022-10-2530 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 12 - All About Twins with Liz Fischer and Erika BreitengrossIn this episode Karen is joined by fellow twin mom Liz Fischer who has a set of boy/girl twins. Erika joins the conversation to talk about her experience of raising two sets of boy/girl twins. Karen, Liz, and Erika discuss their pregnancy, delivery, surprising things about raising twins, the best parts of having twins, comments from strangers, and advice for expecting twin parents.Love the show? Subscribe, Rate, & Review! https://www.familyroomcenter.com/podcast/2022-10-1859 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 11 - Pelvic Floor PT in Pregnancy and Postpartum with Rachel McCarthy-Moya, DPTThis episode is all about your pelvic floor! Karen talks with Rachel McCarthy-Moya, pelvic floor PT at Origin in Los Angeles, about how the pelvic floor functions and changes during pregnancy and postpartum. They cover common issues relating to the pelvic floor, including urinary incontinence, painful sex, returning to exercise, prolapse, kegels, diastasis recti, when to seek help from a pelvic floor PT and what a typical visit looks like. It is important to know that many of these issues can be resolved with support from a PT! Rachel is a phy...2022-10-1131 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 10 - Pumping & Back to Work with Jessica Claire, IBCLC In this episode Karen and Jessica Claire, IBCLC and Family Room educator discuss the ins and outs of making a smooth transition back to work for breastfeeding parents. Jessica talks about how to build up a small supply of milk (hint: it’s not a deep freezer full of milk), tips for pumping at work, communicating with caregivers, introducing a bottle, and importantly, how to care for yourself during yet another big transition. Jessica Claire, is an international board certified lactation consultant, facilitates the feeding support group at The Family Room as w...2022-10-0439 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 9 - Creating Community with Kim-Lan Dovan, LMFTKaren is joined by Kim-Lan Dovan who is a licensed marriage and family therapist and has been a parent & me educator at The Family Room for the past seven years. Karen and Kim-Lan discuss the importance of finding community as a new parent and give you an inside look at what Parent & Me looks like at The Family Room. They also talk about how to find community if you don’t have something like The Family Room in your area. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, & share!Love the...2022-09-2739 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 8 - Belly Binding with Princess McKinney-KirkIn this episode, Karen talks with Princess McKinney-Kirk, a Family Room educator and owner/founder of BelliBind, all about the ancient ritual of postpartum belly wrapping. Karen and Princess discuss not just the physical benefits of belly binding, but the emotional and spiritual benefits, too. If you have ever wondered how belly binding can help with your healing postpartum, are a birth and postpartum worker, or if this is your first time hearing about belly binding, this episode is for you!The study on abdominal binding that Princess referenced can be accessed here: https://www.cureus...2022-09-2034 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 7 - Understanding Tantrums with Gia Gamboro BlountKaren talks with Gia Gamboro Blount, longtime Toddler & Me educator at The Family Room, about the inevitable tantrum. Gia gives tips on removing predictable triggers, understanding the sequence of a tantrum, and how to help your child develop emotional hygiene. Karen and Gia discuss dealing with judgment during tantrums in public and how to survive the moment. Want more from Gia? She offers private parenting consultations: https://www.familyroomcenter.com/private-classes-and-consultations/Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, & share! https://www.familyroomcenter.com/Love the show? Subscribe, Rate, & R...2022-09-1334 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 6 - Preparing Your Child for a Sibling with Denise PeyreParenthood is something that you’ll understand once you get to experience it. We may judge moms based on what we think is correct, but there are circumstances that we can never fully grasp if we are not in their shoes. In this episode, Karen talks with Denise Peyre about practical ways to navigate parenthood when preparing your child for a sibling. This transition could be overwhelming for the family, but with the right tools and tips, we can undoubtedly guide ourselves into this life-changing moment. There are a lot of good ways that can help ease that transition. Tu...2022-09-0648 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 5 - Understanding Paid Family Leave With Jenya CassidyPaid family leave is a big topic, from implications for us as a society and how we value parents to how expecting parents navigate the confusing benefits. In this podcast, Karen Stoteraux talks with Jenya Cassidy, the California Work & Family Coalition director, about the importance of paid family leave and practical ways to navigate these often confusing laws and benefits. Jenya explains that if you feel your employer is violating your rights, you can call Legal Aid at Work at 1-800-880-8047. This Legal Aid at Work is a resource where you can receive free direct legal advice...2022-08-3034 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 4 - Connecting With Your Intuition Postpartum With Sepideh Hakimzadeh, LMFTIntuition is a beautiful thing. The voice inside us knows what we need, even when we don’t yet know it ourselves. That little nudge in the right direction tells us to trust our gut. For mothers, intuition is significant. We are constantly bombarded with choices and advice, and it can be hard to know what to do. But as mothers, we have a unique ability to trust our instincts and our gut feelings. Parenting is a journey, and there is no one right way to do it. Trusting your intuition will help you to find your way....2022-08-2331 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 1 - Welcome to the Podcast!Welcome to the podcast! In this introductory episode, get to know your host, Karen Stoteraux, and her "why" for starting The Family Room, a modern, inclusive space for expecting parents and young families to learn, find support, and be real – and the podcast and what you can expect from it. Karen also talks with her friends about their first Mommy and Me class over 15 years ago, what they learned, and what life has been like since. Interesting fact: In Pasadena, SB 1383 allows you to put bagged food waste in your lawn and garden trash can. This...2022-08-1629 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 3 - Traveling with Kids with Lexsea MannWith COVID restrictions easing up, our summer plans are finally looking brighter than ever! Brighter because we can literally come out of our long isolation and spend vacations traveling outside. For parents, this is a great opportunity to make up for lost outdoor summertime with the kids. And with overflowing excitement comes challenges when traveling. In this episode, Karen Stoteraux is joined by Lexsea Mann to discuss traveling with kids. Lexsea is a mom of two and a Parent & Me Educator at The Family Room. She explains why family travels are important for connecting and shares tips to make...2022-08-1639 min

We Are The Family RoomEp 2 - Preparing for Postpartum with Caryn FieldsPostpartum planning is essential to ensure that mothers receive the support they need for physical and emotional healing. This is what postpartum doulas like Caryn Fields do. She joins Karen Stoteraux in this interview to talk about the things birthing mothers and the people around her can do to help make the postpartum transition smoother. Caryn emphasizes the crucial role of partners, as well as family and friends, in providing essential support to the recovering mother. She also shares practical tips that new mothers can use to speed up their physical and emotional recovery from childbirth. Tune in and...2022-08-1628 min

Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting JourneyEp. 131: How to Build a Community as a New ParentShanna talks about the big surprise she had at 5:45 a.m. and discusses her toddler’s first haircut. Laura bemoans her painful week of pregnancy and marvels at the sweet phrases her toddler has started saying. Also, Shanna and Laura interview Karen Stoteraux and Kim-Lan Dovan from The Family Room about how to build connections and a community when you become a new parent. Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s toddler is 23 months old, and Laura’s toddler is 23 months old. Laura is 30 weeks pregnant.This episode's show notes - https://bigfat...2021-01-0447 min