Shows
Now or NeverSo you screwed up. Now what?Messing things up is part of the human experience.But what happens when you fail at something so big, and so publicly...how do you come back from that?On this episode, four people confess their most epic fails, and what they're doing to dig themselves out.Edmonton’s Kayla Huszar used to cajole, bribe and beg her children to brush their teeth. But her "gentle parenting" approach led to both her kids needing emergency dental surgery, and feelings of failure. How Kayla created boundaries, stopped getting bu...
2025-11-2754 min
Chill Like a Mother PodcastADHD Diagnosis and Hope with Jessica Dunn on What Actually WorkedSend us a textFour years ago, Jessica Dunn was navigating her daughter's AuDHD diagnosis with too many opinions, not enough answers. Today: 18 months without sensory meltdowns.What this episode cover:Moving from diagnosis shock to usable roadmapWhy early intervention builds skills before shame sets inFamily therapy vs "fix the kid" approachesThe ADHD tax: funding, benefits, and hard budget choicesChoosing high-impact supports and measuring by functionBody-based regulation: deep pressure, vestibular input, chiropractic carePrimitive reflexes, midline work, making OT gains stickBuilding trusted teams and filtering noisy adviceRedefining progress with small wins that compoundCarrying...
2025-11-1830 minChill Like a Mother PodcastA Meditation for Moms: When You're Not Fine But Keep Saying You AreSend us a textTired of saying "I'm fine" when your body and brain are screaming for honesty? This guided meditation helps overwhelmed mothers stop pretending and start feeling—without forcing a fix.What You'll Get: A 7-minute practice that meets you where you are: angry, sad, touched out, or completely empty. We start with breath work and body scanning, then move into five practical tools that turn emotional awareness into compassionate action.The Meditation for Moms:Settle into ordinary breath and scan tension hotspots (shoulders, jaw, belly)Le...
2025-11-0510 min
Montreal Now with Aaron Rand PodcastCould gentle parenting just lead to burnout?Kayla Huszar, mother, registered social worker and host of the Chill Like a Mother Podcast podcast
2025-10-2011 minChill Like a Mother PodcastNervous System Overwhelm: Why Moms Can't Always Stay RegulatedSend us a textEver slammed your hands on the table and yelled "ENOUGH!" when the noise and chaos became too much? You're not alone, and contrary to what social media might have you believe, it's not a parenting failure—it's biology.In this eye-opening conversation with therapist Charlie, we explore the myth that mothers should be regulated all the time. Charlie explains how our nervous systems were never designed to handle modern life's constant bombardment of stimuli. Research shows we process more information in one week of urban living than our ancestors did in th...
2025-09-2315 minChill Like a Mother PodcastWhen This Mom Stopped Being the Default Parent (Everything Changed) with Ryley MillerSend us a textYou know that mental catalog that's constantly running in your brain? The one calculating diaper changes, grocery lists, and whether there's milk for tomorrow's cereal while you're doing three other things? What if I told you that mental load doesn't have to be yours alone to carry?In this episode, I'm joined by Ryley Miller, Executive Director of Rise of Society Alberta, for an honest conversation about the unseen emotional labor of motherhood and what happens when you actually negotiate sharing it. Ryley and I have both experienced role reversals in...
2025-09-0325 minChill Like a Mother PodcastBreaking Parenting Cycles Without Breaking YourselfSend us a textEver find yourself swearing under your breath while trying to be the "good mom" – only to feel overcome with guilt moments later? You're not alone. The messy truth about mom rage rarely makes it to social media, but it's something almost every mother experiences.What happens when you're a therapist who can't follow her own advice? In this raw episode, I share a particularly hard parenting day where I experienced that uncomfortable yet surprisingly righteous anger, then questioned my parenting afterward. We explore why healing while raising kids feels impossible sometimes, th...
2025-07-0113 minChill Like a Mother PodcastBeyond the Scroll: How Adult Coloring Books Can Reset Your Exhausted Mom BrainSend us a textIt's 9:05pm. You're hollowed-out exhausted, the kids are finally quiet, and you're zombie-scrolling hoping the algorithm throws you a lifeline. But that "calm" you're chasing? It's not really calm - it's just avoidant numbness dressed up like peace.What if I told you there's something better you can do with those 10 minutes? Something that actually helps your nervous system instead of keeping it stuck in fight-or-flight?In this episode, we're talking about why grabbing your kid's coloring book might be the most practical self-care tool you're not using. Not...
2025-06-1008 minChill Like a Mother PodcastNICU, Anger & Diapers That Felt Like Milestones: Chelsea’s Story of HopeSend us a textWhat happens when a mental health professional finds herself on the other side of the desk - struggling, spiralling, and split wide open by a birth plan that was never part of the plan?In this raw and resonant conversation, Chelsea - co-owner of Couples to Cradles and co-founder of Mama Psychologists - invites us into the story of her early motherhood: one that begins with unexpected labor at just 27 weeks and unravels into a 15-week NICU stay, a cardiac diagnosis, and the kind of emotional unraveling that even a degree...
2025-05-2024 minChill Like a Mother PodcastMental Load, Memory Fog, and the Myth of “Mommy Brain” with neuroscientist Dr. Jodi PawluskiSend us a textYou walk into a room, forget why, stand there blinking like a confused Sims character. Then you start spiralling: Is my brain broken? Is this what motherhood does?!If that moment feels freakishly familiar, this episode is your official permission slip to stop blaming your brain - and start understanding it.In this illuminating convo on Chill Like a Mother, Kayla Huszar chats with neuroscientist Dr. Jodi Pawluski to dismantle the myth of “mommy brain” as a bad thing. Instead, you’ll learn how your brain is actually doing someth...
2025-05-0632 min
Mother Plus Podcast#150: What If Creativity Is the Missing Piece to Your Mental Health?Send us a textGet your ADHD Good Girl survival guide HERE.What if the path to healing wasn’t found in doing more—but in doodling more?In this episode, Stacey and Steph sit down with Kayla Huszar, a Registered Social Worker, Expressive Arts Therapist, and ADHD mom of two, to talk about the transformative power of creativity and expression—especially for mothers.After facing postpartum anxiety and burnout, Kayla found her way back to herself through expressive arts therapy. Now, she helps other mothers reconnect with their creativity, not as a l...
2025-04-0242 minChill Like a Mother PodcastBeyond the Mom Mask: ADHD, Authenticity, and Breaking Free from Perfect ParentingSend us a textIn this episode of Chill Like a Mother, I sit down with the brilliant Stacey and Stephanie to have a real, raw, and slightly irreverent chat about the wild ride that is gentle parenting - especially for neurodivergent moms. We’re peeling back the layers on the emotional toll of motherhood, the sneaky ways shame and guilt creep in, and why holding onto our own identity and creative expression isn’t just "nice to have" - it’s essential for survival.We’re also gett...
2025-03-2528 minChill Like a Mother PodcastMom Guilt Rehab: Joy, Chaos & Giving Zero F*cksSend us a textListen, motherhood wasn’t supposed to feel like one long, unpaid internship in exhaustion. You don’t need a permission slip to take care of yourself—you need a damn strategy.Welcome to Mom Guilt Rehab, the podcast that helps you ditch the martyr mindset, reclaim your energy, and stop treating joy like a cute little side dish you only get if the house is clean and the laundry isn't regenerating overnight like some kind of sorcery.Host Kayla Huszar—therapist, creative coach, and your...
2025-03-1122 min
Chill Like a Mother PodcastThe Radical Act of Guilt-Free Self-Care for MomsSend us a textWomen and mothers are changing the world—but not if they’re exhausted, underfed, and running on fumes. In this episode, we’re diving deep into what real self-care looks like beyond the bubble baths and face masks. Spoiler: It’s about meeting your own basic human needs without apology.My guest, Tami, shares her personal wake-up call—when an acupuncturist bluntly told her she was on the fast track to burnout. Sound familiar? Maybe your moment is realizing you haven’t eaten a full meal in days, or feeling rese...
2025-03-0437 min
Chill Like a Mother PodcastSensory Overload in Motherhood: Why You Feel Like You're Losing It and How to Feel More CalmSend us a textYour problem isn’t just the noise and chaos of motherhood—it’s how your nervous system is processing it.Ever feel like you’re one loud noise away from snapping? Motherhood is a full-sensory experience—from the constant demands to the mental load that never stops. If you’ve ever wondered why everything feels so overwhelming, this episode is for you.I’m joined by occupational therapist Cindy Goldhawk to break down why moms experience sensory overload and, more importantly, what to do a...
2025-02-1826 minChill Like a Mother PodcastGentle Parenting: Raising Emotionally Intelligent Kids with Creative ParentingSend us a textThis episode delves into the complexities of gentle parenting, particularly when navigating the unique emotional and behavioral needs of neurodiverse children. We explore the misconceptions surrounding gentle parenting, the power of language in communication, and the importance of embracing creativity in parenting. • The challenges of gentle parenting with neurodiverse children • Misunderstandings about the gentle parenting movement • The significance of emotional expression in children • Impact of social media on parenting expectations • How language choice influences child responses • Incorporating creativity in parenting and emotional growth • Recognizing individual differences in children’s needs
2025-02-0420 minChill Like a Mother PodcastMotherhood and Identity: How to Be a More Mindful MomSend us a textThis episode invites parents to shift their mindset from chaos to joy by embracing mindfulness and playfulness in their daily routines. Through insightful conversation, we explore techniques to create space for connection, the importance of intentional pauses, and how redefining our perspectives can foster deeper joy and satisfaction in parenting. Creating space for aliveness and joy Navigating challenging emotional conversations The power of communication and collaboration in parenting Shifting focus from problems to joyful moments Daily rituals to promote mindfulness and self-care Redefining standards of parenting and embracing imperfectionSuppor...
2025-01-2838 minChill Like a Mother PodcastBreaking Free from Perfectionist ParentingSend us a textIn this conversation, Kayla Huszar and Christina Corcoran delve into the complexities of perfectionism in motherhood. They explore how perfectionist tendencies can manifest in both mothers and their children, leading to cycles of self-criticism and anxiety. Christina shares her personal journey of self-awareness and the awakening she experienced when recognizing these traits in herself and her children. The discussion emphasizes the importance of self-compassion, practical strategies for change, and the role of modeling healthy behaviors for children. Ultimately, the conversation serves as a reminder that parents are not alone in their struggles and...
2025-01-1432 minChill Like a Mother PodcastWhy Self-Care Isn’t Changing Your Frustrations, MamaSend us a textKayla Huszar on Post-Holiday Mom Life: Navigating Frustrations, Self-Care, and Creative JoyLet’s talk about that post-holiday emotional hangover we moms face—the one where everything feels simultaneously too much and not enough. Kayla dives into the emotional rollercoaster of motherhood transitions, shedding light on the hidden frustrations bubbling beneath our “I’ve got this” exterior. She’s all about getting real about self-care (spoiler: it’s more than face masks) and leaning into creative expression as a way to reclaim joy and rediscover yourself.Kayla gently calls o...
2025-01-0722 min
Chill Like a Mother PodcastArt Journaling Magic: Reclaim Your Identity Beyond MotherhoodSend us a textHey mama, are you ready to swap overwhelm for creative magic? Art journaling isn’t just a pastime—it’s a lifeline. For mothers juggling the never-ending to-do list, this therapeutic outlet becomes a much-needed rebellion against the mundane, a place to let loose and rediscover you.WATCH ON YOUTUBEIn this episode, we’ll dive into the beautifully imperfect world of art journaling:🎨 How to use this soulful practice to process emotions and reclaim your identity✨ Why there’s no such thing as mistakes, only messy, glorious discov...
2024-12-3109 minChill Like a Mother PodcastThe Allure of Gentle ParentingSend us a textIn this episode of the Chill Like a Mother podcast, Kayla Huszar discusses the complexities of gentle parenting, particularly in the context of social media pressures. She emphasizes the importance of connection over perfectionism and the need for parents to balance their own needs with those of their children. Kayla shares insights from her therapy practice, highlighting the emotional burdens many mothers carry and the necessity of setting boundaries. The conversation encourages mothers to embrace their imperfections and reconnect with themselves beyond their roles as parents.TakeawaysGentle...
2024-12-1714 min
Chill Like a Mother PodcastParenting Highly Sensitive Kids in a Noisy WorldSend us a textIn this episode of the Chill like a Mother Podcast, host Kayla Huszar and guest Caitlin discuss the intricacies of parenting highly sensitive children. They explore the characteristics of highly sensitive individuals, the challenges parents face, and effective strategies for fostering emotional regulation and understanding. The conversation emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive environment and using storytelling as a tool for connection and communication.TakeawaysHighly sensitive children feel emotions more intensely than others.Understanding sensitivity as a temperament can alleviate parental concerns.Creating a...
2024-12-1025 minChill Like a Mother PodcastMotherhood, Meltdowns, and the Power of Creative BreaksSend us a textMotherhood can feel like an endless cycle of giving—to your kids, your partner, your job, your home. But where does that leave you? In this episode, we’re breaking down why creativity isn’t a luxury—it’s a lifeline, especially for busy moms. 🎨💡You don’t need hours of free time (ha, what’s that?) or artistic talent to feel the benefits. We’re talking about five intentional minutes of doodling, journaling, or even just soaking in the colors around you.Join me and art therapist Ashleigh Gureckas as we explore...
2024-11-2629 min
Chill Like a Mother PodcastThe ADHD Tax: Balancing the Emotional and Financial Costs of ParentingSend us a textHave you ever felt like you’re on a wild roller coaster ride with no safety bar while raising your kids? If you’re a parent of neurodiverse children, you probably get it! In this episode of Chill Like a Mother, I chat with Jessica Dunn, a dedicated neurodiversity advocate and fellow parent, about the thrilling ups and downs of raising kids with ADHD and autism.We dive into the emotional chaos that can come with this journey, from the financial strains of what many call the "ADHD tax" to the feel...
2024-11-1227 min
Chill Like a Mother PodcastTune In: The Calm Before the Morning ChaosSend us a textMornings can often feel like a chaotic race against the clock for many mothers—like you’re starring in a reality show called Survivor: Breakfast Edition. But what if a little music could transform that mayhem into something more serene? In this episode, I’m chatting with music therapist Jennifer Buchanan about the magical powers of sound in setting a peaceful tone for your day. We’ll dive into how the right tunes can activate your calming response, reduce stress, and even improve family dynamics. Whether you’re a mother w...
2024-11-0314 min
Chill Like a Mother PodcastStop Carrying the Weight: How to Release Mom Guilt and Reclaim YouSend us a textMotherhood isn’t just about raising kids—it’s about finding yourself in the middle of all the chaos. In this episode, we’re diving deep into the real, raw emotions that come with being a mom. I’m joined by Tara Duckworth, and we’re tackling the tough stuff: grief, guilt, and shame. We’re pulling back the curtain on why these feelings hit so hard and how they can secretly shape our motherhood experience. But here’s the good news—you don’t have to stay stuck. We’re breaking down...
2024-10-2024 min
Chill Like a Mother PodcastHow to Refill Your Cup When Motherhood's Got You Running on EmptySend us a textAlright, mamas—let's talk burnout. If you’re feeling like the chaos of motherhood is swallowing you whole, this episode is for YOU. Today, I sit down with Jenny from Mama Needs a Refill, and trust me, she’s about to blow your mind with simple, actionable strategies to help you calm the chaos and reclaim a little peace. From grounding morning rituals that take less than a minute to micro-pauses that stop you from going down the mindless scrolling rabbit hole, Jenny’s here to show you how...
2024-10-0641 min
Chill Like a Mother PodcastNo Time for Yourself? Why 10 Minutes of Creativity Changes EverythingSend us a textHey there, mom friend. Feeling like you’re constantly juggling a million things and barely keeping your head above water? You’re definitely not alone. In this episode, we’re chatting with Angela about how creativity can offer a much-needed breather in the middle of the chaos that is motherhood.Angela’s story is all about finding those small moments of calm through creative outlets like painting and journaling. She’ll share her journey from feeling overwhelmed to discovering how these simple tools helped her reconnect with herself and manage stress.Here’...
2024-09-2926 min