Shows
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real SPECIAL Episode! HRtBeat Podcast RepostIn this episode of HRtbeat, the Highlands Ranch podcast, Jake Freedle welcomes back Nikki Brooker, founder of the nonprofit YANA, (You Are Not Alone), for an inspiring update on her organization’s work in providing vital support to new moms. YANA’s program, Strong Mamas, Thriving Babies, now operates in three hospitals, offering comprehensive, year-long support to mothers, including personal outreach, community gatherings and digital resources. Nikki shares the tremendous impact of their 96% acceptance rate, emphasizing how this unique program fills a gap in maternal care, especially during the challenging first year. She discusses the importance of community and ment...2024-11-0635 min
HRtbeat: The Highlands Ranch PodcastEpisode 9: Update w/ Nikki Brooker, YANA (You Are Not Alone)In this episode of HRtbeat, the Highlands Ranch podcast, Jake Freedle welcomes back Nikki Brooker, founder of the nonprofit YANA, (You Are Not Alone), for an inspiring update on her organization’s work in providing vital support to new moms. YANA’s program, Strong Mamas, Thriving Babies, now operates in three hospitals, offering comprehensive, year-long support to mothers, including personal outreach, community gatherings and digital resources.
Nikki shares the tremendous impact of their 96% acceptance rate, emphasizing how this unique program fills a gap in maternal care, especially during the challenging first year. She discusses the importance of comm...2024-11-0535 min
HRtbeat: The Highlands Ranch PodcastEpisode 2: Nikki Brooker, YANA (You Are Not Alone)Nikki Brooker organizes peer supported moms groups and usher women into motherhood by connecting them with each other.
Motherhood is a beautiful journey, but for many, it can also be a time of profound isolation and struggle. In today's world, where families often live far apart and traditional support systems may not be in place, new mothers frequently find themselves feeling alone.
In this episode of Heartbeat, the Highlands Ranch podcast, we have the pleasure of speaking with Nikki Brooker, the founder and CEO of YANA (You Are Not Alone), a nonprofit...2024-06-0751 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 95 W/Brenna HarrisonBrenna is a single mom of 2 and closing in on 40 and so excited about the possibilities of the “rock star decade!” She is a police dispatcher for the Colorado State Patrol and her hours are nuts! She also put her application in to be a State Trooper and is starting that process! She became a mama at the age of 22 and her kiddos have different dads. Not knowing what a healthy relationship looked like, she struggled to find true love. Having two kids on her own, her mom homeschooled her and her siblings and that struggle was rough for Brenna...2024-06-0344 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 94 W/Michelle KostnerMichelle is a mom of 2 living in Arvada, Colorado and works with companies to help them with their expansion plans. She is a member of YANA’s Board of Directors and has been an amazing asset to our program. She started her parenting journey later in life and had her son at the age of 40. She was a corporate climber so starting at the age of 40 was a little rough. She had 2 small kiddos for the global pandemic! She made some changes to her career in that time and switched lanes in her work/life balance. After leaving a wo...2024-05-2726 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 93 W/Susanna Peace LovellSusanna Peace Lovell is a mama and a life coach and advocate for families with kiddos with disabilities. She has a daughter with many extreme needs and it led her to this work. Her daughter is about to turn 18, living in LA and her and her ex-husband raise her collectively. She had ALL the motherhood answers before she became a mom (like a lot of us do) and then reality hit! Her daughter was diagnosed with a plethora of medical conditions and her mamahood journey was NOTHING like she was prepared for. She, and her daughter cried for the...2024-05-2133 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 92 W/Dianna Vagianos ArmentroutDianna is a classical homeopath in Littleton who wrote a book about newborn death. She does a lot of grief work with mamas who have experienced a loss. After four pregnancies, she has one living child and her unique experience is what helps her share with other mamas. There are over one million babies who die before their first birthday EVERY YEAR! Grieving is something we don’t talk about in this country. She is a member of the Colorado End of Life Collaboration and it is an organization she is very proud of. She is a death expert who...2024-05-1224 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 91 W/Erin WilliamsShe and her husband are high school sweethearts and she was married at 20! She wasn’t sure she wanted kiddos but after 10 years of marriage, they decided they did! She was in the hospitality industry during the pandemic but that wasn’t ideal as a new mom. Hotels are open 365 days a year and 24 hours a day! That wasn’t working for her and her family so she decided it was time to realign her priorities and change her career on top of a pandemic and being a new mama! Her biggest realization was that relationships change when you have kiddo...2024-05-0640 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 90 W/Kelli Melissa ReinhardtKelli is a badass CEO of a Colorado nonprofit called BCC Evolution (now Make Mental Health Matter), a mental health and suicide awareness nonprofit. They focus on the education aspect after her sister took her life. Kelli was a teen mom at the age of 16 as a junior in high school. She put her daughter up for adoption because she watched her sister go through it as a teen mom and didn’t want that for her life. So she asked for an open adoption and is in contact with the family with lots of adoption in her family. She h...2024-04-2935 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 89 W/Lindsey MckissickLindsey is a mom of 2 girls and the program director of the Backcountry Wilderness nonprofit for our Community Association. She is passionate about protecting our wildlife in Colorado. She was in a hurry to be a mom and had baby number one at the age of 26 right after her husband graduated from PT school. She is a Colorado native who returned in her adult years because she LOVED the mountains and Colorado as a whole. Her biggest challenge as a mom has been doing parenthood the way that SHE wanted and not necessarily how others thought she should. She...2024-04-2229 min
The Secondary Infertility Podcast9. Nikki Brooker on Ending her Secondary Infertility Journey Without a Second BabyNikki Brooker is a wife, mom to her five-year-old son, school-based speech-language pathologist, travel lover, hiker, sports fan (Go Bills!), coffee lover, and puppy mom. When COVID hit, she decided to start a professional Instagram account (@speechcoffeeinclusivity) to share diverse and inclusive content, apparel, and books. As her secondary infertility journey started, she was able to use this platform to connect with others going through the process.Nikki endured medicated cycles, IUIs, and ultimately IVF. Her long journey with IVF resulted in multiple devastating pregnancy losses. It has been almost a year since their IVF journey ended...2024-04-1836 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 88 W/Marta PadillaMarta is a mom of 3 and a full time student pursuing her graduate degree in Social work. As an intern for YANA, she has contributed a TON of knowledge to our organization and she is a huge asset to us! They live the farm life and are encouraging her three kids to find happiness in whatever that is, even if it isn’t higher education. Healthy relationships have healthy conversations and discussions that show conflict resolutions that show them what the real world looks like (as unfortunate as that is sometimes). Her first child was a NICU experience and it w...2024-04-1539 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 87 W/Ellen FreedleShe is a stay at home mom but was a theater actress and CEO of a Yoga studio for years. Her journey started at an advanced maternal age. Her home birth was magical and was exactly what she wanted it to be. She had 2 midwives, a doula, a birth photographer and her husband for her birth and LOVED it. She was radically supported and was only in labor for 5 hours as opposed to the 40 hours of the first birth! Her birth stories are unique and different but also HERS and she takes pride in that. Her first baby was...2024-04-0133 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 86 W/Lainne LoveLainne had a natural home birth with her son at the age of 36. She has had a lot of chaos in her mama journey and didn’t know the father well and she does not have a relationship with him so being a single mom was quite the challenge. She was shocked at her numbness during pregnancy and because of her traumatic childhood, she was not as prepared to be a mom as she wishes she would be. She didn’t recognize herself when she became a mom and realized her ancestral karma was holding her back. Epigenetics is the...2024-03-2531 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 85 W/Lori HuertasAs a mama of one and a son who joined the military, that fear was encompassing because she had no idea how to handle that. When she was a new mom, she was on her own as a single mom. She had support from her parents when her son grew but lost both of her parents to cancer. She feels that she has grown closer to her mom since she passed because she learned about her moms past and her life trauma and how that made her who she was. Blessed with the most amazing son and having such...2024-03-1832 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 84 W/Candace LanceCandace has been a working mom for many years and owns Holistically Well (insert tag here). Even though she wasn’t always 100% sure she wanted to be a mom. She envisioned herself as the professional woman in New York City, living the dream of being a working woman who blew your socks off. After five years of trying, she finally got pregnant and were now a military family. The military doesn’t really support infertility and the struggle of it. After a miscarriage on her own, in her own home all alone she finally felt the need to be a mom...2024-03-0437 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys -Episode 83 W/Diane SmithAs a lifelong educator, she has dedicated her life to the education of children. She started her mama journey just before turning 30. With grown kids, she remembers having very little support throughout having little ones. She moved to Colorado with no family there and struggled with the lack of help. Even though she was in education and taught while having kids, she didn’t ever teach her own children. Her neighbors were her biggest supporters and they created her own village. As she grew as a mom, and now a grandmother, she did some remembering back to the days of...2024-02-2632 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 82 W/Samantha OppermanSamantha and I have a long history and it was such a joy to chat with her. She was a flower girl in our wedding way back in 1995! Samantha was 26 when she had number one and after having number one, number two was a whole different story and it was hard letting go of not having control over the unknown. The mom guilt for number one was really hard to navigate as well. Her biggest supporter was her mama (who happens to be my BFF!). She loved hearing from her that she is doing a good job! As a m...2024-02-1933 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 81 W/Marissa HarmonMarissa is running for MAYOR of Lone Tree, Colorado and is kicking off her journey into the crazy world of politics! She is a mom of 2 girls and is passionate about leaning into her community. As a mom of one, her biggest challenge with having her second child was the unknown of how to handle things when your baby isn’t meeting the same milestones as your first. Where do you turn? Who do you tell? As the mom, we are supposed to “know” and it wasn’t until someone in her hairstyle chair said to her, “Developmental Pathways is amazing...2024-02-1239 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journey's - Episode 80 w/Trista GoforthTrista is a coach of women and focuses on empowering women. She gave birth in Costa Rica at home as a single mom. She lived in Costa Rica for seven years to learn a new culture, Spanish and more about sustainability. She is one of six kids and always wanted to give birth at home. One of her biggest challenges was going from having the baby in her belly to always having him on her boob. The demands are huge to moms and never ending. When her son started to mirror her yoga practice, she saw the fruits of h...2024-02-0528 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 79 W/Melissa RohlfsMelissa is a wife and mom of 2 teen girls. Holistic health and life coach helping girls and women break free issues with food. Being a mom is so hard because you watch yourself walk outside of your body with NO control. Being a mom is a 24/7 job because someone always needs something. Her kids are 27 months apart and that seemed to work well for them. Overwhelming at first but as they grew, it was better. Her best mama moment is right now! She is loving how much they need her in a totally different way and with their brains mor...2024-01-2927 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 78 W/Jenn FredricksJenn is a life coach and helps people to be proactive in their resilience. She helps people prepare and practice for the curve balls that are thrown at us. She is an adoptive mom of a 15 year old girl who brought her daughter home at 5 weeks old. She is a 2-time kidney transplant recipient so couldn’t carry children so decided to be an adoptive mom. Her story is quite unique and full of hope, love and big things. Her daughter has a life threatening disease that she has learned how to manage and support while navigating motherhood, running a...2024-01-2231 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 77 W/Elena FlanneryA native California girl challenged with not being able to surf every day. Her and her family are about to retire from the military after 20 years of service. With baby number one, she almost lost her life in childbirth. As a family, they have moved 8 times in 13 years! As a military family, this was their “normal” but watching their kids struggle with those moves was gut wrenching. She wants other moms to know that you are doing better than you think you are. You CAN do hard things and you should never stop playing with your kids! Experiences over stuff...2024-01-0222 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 75 W/Jessica DawsonAs a new author of a book about postpartum stuff that helps moms with the 4th trimester, her honest, raw thoughts and experiences are helping moms everywhere. She is a young, intelligent mom with so much to share. She learned early to set boundaries and let her friends and family know what they have for expectations and highly suggests that for all moms. There are two goals after having a baby…one is to keep that baby alive and thriving and also for YOU to heal and thrive too. Mom’s health and wellbeing needs to be a bigger prio...2023-12-1935 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 74 W/Melinda BrookerMarried at 19 and baby number one at 20, Melinda flew across the world to Ethiopia, Africa to be with her husband who was stationed in the Navy there. She had to birth on her own, mother for the first three weeks on her own and then be a mom in Africa! It was quite a challenge but in her words, “you just did it, you had no other choice.” After returning to Michigan, they had baby number two and then she had the support of her family but in only two short years, her entire world was turned upside down when h...2023-12-1122 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 73 W/Jenny RobbinsJenny Robbins is a mental health counselor at South Platte Counseling. She is a mom of 2 boys with only one on this earth. She was first a young mom at the age of 20 and a college student and also an older mom at the age of 37! She was part of a network of moms with her second son and without that group, she couldn’t have been strong enough to get through the death of her first son 11 years ago. As a therapist who specializes in grief and trauma, she helps people move forward after a deep loss. She wis...2023-12-0426 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 72 W/Jazmin SlaughterJazmin Slaughter is a publicist and mother of one who gave birth during a global pandemic. She was so focused on building her career and education that she wasn’t sure she was wanting to be a mom at the age of 25. But when she got pregnant, that changed everything, She has a Bachelor’s degree and is working on her Master’s degree. She wishes she would have known that the sacrifice of time would be the hardest part of motherhood. She didn’t value her “me” time. She wants moms to keep trying your best even when you don’t hav...2023-11-2730 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 71 W/Dru AhlborgDru Ahlborg was an older mama at the ages of 37 and 40. She could not believe they let her drive away from the hospital with a newborn all by herself! Who said she was ready for this? Her oldest son had to go through many feed therapists and had a lot of her first years as a new mom were exploring foods and getting him to get through his food issues, which centered around textures. It was a big challenge as a new mom. As her kids grow she is learning that moms and daughters can have some challenges that ca...2023-11-2327 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 70 W/Angela Fuller (One Year Update) We spoke to Angela exactly a year ago (Check out the episode back on November 29, 2022) This is her one year update! Angela Fuller is a mother, a dedicated fitness instructor, a competitive gymnast, an inspirational speaker, and even an American Ninja Warrior, as featured on NBC's latest season of ANW this summer. Angela's journey is a testament to her resilience, having overcome a broken back and battled through postpartum depression by choosing faith over fear. Today, at the age of 43, she defies expectations, flipping and soaring through the air. Angela's true passion lies in motivating mothers to rediscover their love fo...2023-11-1531 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 69 W/Randi BevingtonRandi Bevington is such a joy to call my friend. We have been friends for over 20 years and from day one, I have thought she was a badass. As a mama of two littles, she has proven that she truly is. Her quote, “we are always managing relationships” really hit me hard because that’s exactly what we do as moms. We are always managing relationships and those relationships are constantly changing. WOW. That’s exhausting and frustrating because just when you think you have things figured out, the world, you or the other person in the relationship changes. Her advi...2023-11-0636 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 68 W/Cheryl SchuberthCheryl Schuberth- Cheryl was a corporate mama trying to do all the things when she realized that she wasn’t giving her best self to her family so she stopped running the rat race and changed gears. Now a mama of 2 boys ages 20 and 18, she took her worst mama moment and turned it into a positive by helping other parents of teenagers. Celebrate the wins, acknowledge all the things you are doing well and stop beating yourself up! Peacing it Together is her company connecting parents everywhere. Check out her website peacingittogether.com 2023-10-3133 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 67 W/Heather ReedHeather started her journey without a lot of background knowledge about babies or being a mom. Followed her gut most of the time but when she was 9 months old she was diagnosed with cancer! The moment that happened changed everything. Motherhood is not about martyrdom. You can find her at heather@heatherreedcoaching.com or https://heatherreedcoaching.com/ 2023-10-2342 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 66 W/Dr. Sonal PatelDr. Sonal Patel is a trained pediatrician and NICU doctor as well as a parent of 4 boys! She is married to her college sweetheart and after living through Hurricane Katrina, she was 6 months pregnant and activated in a horrible hurricane. She hates the phrase, “bounce back” because you aren’t bouncing back to anything. You are a totally different person now, you are a mom and we need to allow ourselves to be that new person. As a south Asian mama, she believes in a community of moms from generations and that made all the difference. You can find her at...2023-10-1727 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 65 With Therese ConnollyTess is a single mom who divorced when her son was five because there was a substance abuse issue that created a need for her to leave. After many years of trying to work things out, she made the decision to leave when it was the right time. She says the time in the car with your kiddo can be the most amazing conversations you can have. Take the time. You don’t have to be perfect, you can just be yourself. Reach out to her at mindfulkidsandfamilies.com or therese@mindfulkidsandfamilies.com. 2023-10-1037 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 64 W/Lainie StrouseA producer in LA who wants mamas to know “You can only do what you can do.” It’s that simple. The word “perfect” should be taken out our vocabulary because there is no such thing and we try too hard to emulate it and often its at our deficit. Quality is more important that quantity when it comes to time with your kids. Make sure they know that you are there so that relationship will always have an open door. Don’t love your kids in spite of who they are but BECAUSE of who they are. 2023-09-2533 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 63 W/Mary LanniMary Lanni was a delightful mama to chat with and her advice is to place a mask on yourself before assisting others. Also you may have to advocate for your parenting choices and your kids as motherhood goes on because everyone has an opinion and will question all that you do (especially when you are doing things differently than they did). Advocating for your choices isn't selfish, it's necessary for your own mental health. 2023-09-1733 min
The Future Fox PodcastEP.005 - Nikki Brooker - YANAM2MNikki Brooker joins us on The Future Fox Podcast to discuss the founding of YANA in 2017, a response to two tragedies in Douglas County that reshaped the motherhood experience in our community. In the wake of these heartbreaking events, YANA's mission emerged: to transform the world, one mother at a time, ensuring no mom ever walks alone.Learn about the belief that every mother deserves safety, acceptance, and value. Yana's programs are dedicated to providing support to all mothers in the community, striving to meet their needs and create a world where every mom feels cherished and...2023-09-0740 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 62 W/Jen ShapiroJen is an amazing mama who has been through a lot in the past few years as she manages some very tricky rare medical diagnosis'. Her advice and mama journey lead her share that it’s ok to screw up and not have all the answers. As a mama who struggled with a partner who had a mental condition that changed who he was as a human being and created a need for her to leave with her son for safety reasons, she has done everything in her power to create a stable, loving home for her and her son...2023-09-0629 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 61 W/Vita LagallaWe tell our kids to push themselves outside their comfort zone and sometimes we need to do the same. Moms are constanly pushing themselves outside their comfort zones and we should be proud of where we are going and what we can do. When we have those proud mama moments, it makes the hard times just a little bit easier. Vita teaches us that sometimes when our lives don't work out the way that we THOUGHT it should, it can be even better than we imagined (but it isn't always easy to see the other side of the tunnel...2023-08-3035 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 60 W/Rebekah GriffithRebekah is not only a mama of 3 but a DOCTOR of Physical Therapy and one hell of a badass black belt in Taekwondo!! She truly is one of a kind who always adds humor to every situation and is a delight to hang out with! As a family of five black belts, they are a strong, loving family who live life to it’s fullest. Rebekah’s experiences and words of wisdom will give you some interesting things to think about and experience all the feels.2023-08-2132 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 59 W/Emily Sutherland"Allow yourself your wins." What words of wisdom from Emily Sutherland, a beautiful soul, entrepreneur, mama, friend, mama champion and so much more. Her business, Next Level Nutritian, found at nextlevelnutritionist.com helps people understand how nutritian is and will determine your health goals and create a reasonable plan to achieve them, bringing balance between Mind, Body, Spirit and Home. She wants every mama to be proud of herself and what a miracle she truly is and that begins with what we put in our bodies. Give a listen to see if you can learn from Emily.2023-08-1432 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 58 W/Danielle SmasonDanielle is a powerhouse badass who has been through a lot to get to where she is today. She wears many hats as a business woner, advocate for change, mom, wife, etc. She never thought she wanted to be a mom! She became one, went through a lot of struggles but in the long run is thoroughly blown away by the best adventure of her life. She is part owner of Break Up with Cake, an all-natural gluten-free and vegan, handmade, fresh and ultra premium snack. Check out their website at breakupwithcake.com.2023-08-0834 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 57 W/Chrissy Brothers"You were made to be YOUR kids' mom. They need YOU." What a profound statement from our guest on this week's podcast. She is so right. SO many moms are too hard on themselves and think that other moms are doing a better job or would be a better mom for their kids when in fact, your kids are meant to be YOUR kids and you are doing a great job. When we are doing the absolutey best we can do, that's enough! Give a listen to Chrissy and her wisdom and beautiful story. 2023-08-0134 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journey's - Episode 56 W/ Natalie Oliver AthertonHave you ever sat across from someone and were in total awe of their beauty and grace and then they opened their mouth and you were astounded by their life story, their kindness and their talent? Well that happened to me with Mrs. Colorado, Natalie Oliver Atherton! She is a beautiful soul with so much love to give. She is starting a nonprofit, she sings and performs, she is a coach and a mom of grown, beautiful humans. She has done it all and she has some great tidbits to share. 2023-07-2433 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journey's - Episode 55 W/ Jenny ZichtermanGO BLUE! Jenny and her husband, Tom are fello Michiganders who live in Colorado and have two great kiddos. Her story shows that even though our kids don't always follow the path that we think they should, they can make great choices and do wonderful things with their lives. Her mamahood journey shows that you can still do the things you love and negotiations with your kiddos can help make memories you will cherish forever. 2023-07-1731 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journey's - Episode 54 W/Cyndi PhillipsCyndi and I met years ago when she was a neighbor of mine. We watched our kids grow up together, we were in the same babysitting co-op and we became lifelong friends. She has been through a lot in the past few years but has come out the other side in a magical way. I am so proud to call her my friend and listening to her story made me realize what an amazing human being she is and just how much I adore her!2023-07-1029 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journey's - Episode 53 W/Julie EisenbergWOW. What an amazing human Julie is and you will learn SO much! She, and her daughters created a "method" to treat generational trauma and how it holds you and your body back from healing and moving forward. Our interview really opened my eyes to what trauma really is and how it can greatly affect your wellbeing in so many ways. Give a listen and think about how different your life could be if you address the trauma that may be holding you back!2023-06-2636 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journey's - Episode 52 W/ Jasleen DurhamAs a young mom, Jasleen has felt reverse ageism where people don't take her seriously because she is young but her ability to see motherhood as an honor and the love she has for her daughter is inspiring and well beyond her years. She works hard every day to be the best mom she can be and build a life for her daughter and husband. Her ability to understand that it's ok not to love being a mom every moment of every day but still love the child you created with all of your heart is another reason she w...2023-06-1933 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 51 W/Melanie DouglassMelanie is one amazing mama, doing it all on her own with three kids, all with a diagnosis of autisim. She juggles school, a full time job, three kiddos, a house and ALL of the things. She knows that positive mental health is essential for a productive home and future. With three kiddos who have special needs and have waivers with the state, she is constantly fighting for what they need. Her number one supporter has always been her three kids and she is one hell of a good mom! Learn from her, hear her story and understand that YOU A...2023-06-1231 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journey's - Episode 50 W/Stephanie HolzhauerStephanie is a badass business owner of Fit4mom, a mama connection exercising program for all mamas with or without a stroller (used to be called Stroller Strides). She is the mama of daughters agest 6 and 8 and her number one piece of advice is to find your village! Connecting with moms, building community and creating lifelong bonds is essential for moms to feel accepted and part of a team. Fit4moms can totally help you create those! Hear Stephanie's mama journey now!2023-06-0532 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journey's - Episode 49 W/Monika NielsenAs a homeschooling mama, Monika has a unique perspective of motherhood AND educator. Her adventures and dedication to her family are truly inspiring. Her advice is to take a deep breath and know that it will all be ok...don't sweat the small stuff and enjoy the ride. Even when the ride is bumpy, it will lead you to the next adventure. 2023-05-3137 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journey's - Episode 48 W/Kelly DoreWOW! Kelly is one amazing human being who is earning kudos and honors from international organizations for her work as an advocate against human trafficking. Her generational trauma has created her focus in helping other humans heal and discontinue the havoc it causes. Trauma changes how you parent, live and create relationships and she wants everyone to know that healing and understanding how it can affect your world is very important. Kelly's accolades are too many to list but she is doing HUGE things internationally and is a wealth of knowledge about human trafficking and so many other subjects. Give...2023-05-2443 minLet's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journey's - Episode 47 W/Emily SandersEmily is a badass single mom who wants all moms to know that they are enough just as they are. Even when your momma journey isn't going the way that you envisioned it to go, you are doing everything right for you and your kids. Emily's momma story will inspire you and prove that the best mommas are the ones that give a 100%.2023-05-1635 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 46 W/LeaLea and I had a great conversation about all kinds of different parenting struggles and how finding a passion your kids and you can connect with is sometimes the best parts of mamahood. Her advice is to learn early on that you have to let go of any thoughts of control of your kids' path. You can guide them but in the long run, they will be the deciders of their own destiny. 2023-05-0834 min
THE EMPOWERED WOMAN, Storytelling, Speaking, Brand Awareness, Business Growth, Marketing, SalesSupporting The People Who Make The People - Nikki Brooker Founder and CEO of YANAM2MEp 294: Supporting The People Who Make The People - Nikki Brooker Founder and CEO of YANAM2M Today we are joined by the amazing Nikki Brooker. Nikki is the founder and CEO of You Are Not Alone-Mom 2 Mom (YANAM2M). This non-profit organization supports moms in the community. This is not just for the struggling mom but for ALL moms who have “been there” and who can reach out a helping hand and let another mom know that they are NOT alone. You can learn more about YANAM2M Here. ...2023-05-0536 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 45 W/Siobhan SullivanSiobhan (pronounced Sha-von) and I sat down to discuss motherhood from a gay mom's perspective with a son whom she adores more than life itself. As a lifetime Montessori teacher and badass early childhood educator, her perspective on things comes from a lens of always wanting what's best for him. Her advise for moms is to lilghten up and enjoy the ride. Parenthood is an adventure and if you take everything so seriously, you will miss the fun!2023-05-0224 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journey's - Episode 43 W/Sarah HubbardSarah's new mama journey is heartwarming and so special. She struggled with infertility and after a very scary, taumatic pregnancy, she gave birth to an amazing baby boy. Her advice for moms is to be real, be honest and stop the fluff! Talk about the real stuff and you will find the support you need (but don't always know that you need). 2023-04-2428 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 42 W/Marta SpirkMarta is originally from Brazil and is a badass entrepreneur boosting other business people's confidence and helping them to grow their businesses. Her biggest success is birthing triplets and being one amazing mama! She believes heavily in empowering others and building them up to be the best business owners that they can be. Give a listen to how amazing she is as a mama, business powerhouse and person!2023-04-1628 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 41 W/Jan KelleyJan has an unique perspective on being a mama. She is a step-mama and an "adopted mama" to 10 different humans. She is a grandma to many and takes her jobs very seriously. She never planned NOT to have kids of her own but instead took on the role of step-mom to her husband's kiddos and has loved it from the beginning. Her story is unique and you should really hear all about how more positive influences on kids is a good thing when everyone involved is loving and works together for the betterment of everyone involved!2023-04-1324 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journey's - Episode 40 w/Odelia ElgaratMy conversation with Odelia will leave you with such an inspiring journey. As an immigrant to the US, she has been through quite an adventure and truly is an inspiration to all women trying to make a difference in this world. Her advise is to let kids be who they are as they are perfect just as they are! Give a listen and feel inspired!2023-04-0330 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 39 w/Sara StonerSara and I had a great conversation about motherhood and how her experience with being a school psychologist working mostly with low income kiddos helped steer her motherhood journey. Every mom has a story and Sara has a lot to offer our listeners. 2023-03-2838 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 38 W/Gary ClarkTune in to hear a dad's point of view with our first dad interview! Gary joined me for a fun convo from a dad who says we all need to ASK FOR HELP and ask often and fast. Admitting you can't do it all yourself and that you need help is a super power and we need to normalize it. 2023-03-1325 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 37 W/Carly BlackCarly has a special story with trama transformed into a beautiful spirit who only wants to make the world a better place! She works every day with Revival Society with a proprietary Moment-to-Moment Method is a deep process designed to help facilitate growth and change. We had a great conversation full of laughs and some great content! Give a listen!2023-03-0633 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 36 w/Cathy BegunCathy and I had a great conversation about motherhood and trusting your gut. As a mama, you know what is the right decision most of the time and if you just trust it, you will be amazed at how well that will work for you. Cathy also gave a big shout out to her FRAMILY...her neighborhood. She said look at those around you for a community, and sometimes neighbors are the right connection! 2023-02-2833 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 35 w/Michelle KuenzlerMichelle is a mom of 4, works full time and is beyond exhausted! Her biggest piece of advice is that YOU matter and YOU need to take care of YOU because frankly, no one else is going to do it! She says that mom's post-baby health is often overlooked and we need to do a better job of advocating for ourselves. 2023-02-1334 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 34 w/Brooke BerndtBrooke is a powerhouse mama who truly knows how to speak to your heart. Her advise is that it is NEVER EVER too late! Brooke became a mom at the age of 45 and although struggled with being the "older mama" she wouldn't trade it for the world. Give a listen and see what she has to say!2023-02-0635 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 33 w/SJ StruckmeyerSJ is an integrated Nurse Practitioner with lots of letters behind her name who specializes in hormone, thyroid and nutrient optimization as well as women's reproductive health. Her vast experience and education are an impressive and her down-to-earth, honest interview was an honor to be a part of. You do not have to suffer in silence and SJ wants you to know you can use your voice or find someone who can do it for you. There are so many allies out there. Give a listen and share it with someone you love.2023-01-3030 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 32 W/Roseanne TracyRoseanne and Nikki talk about mamahood, how motherhood changes as you grow and how special your relationship can be with your adult children. Roseanne is a delight to listen to and learn from and we hope you enjoy this episode of Let's Be Real - Mama Journeys!2023-01-2331 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 31 w/Vikki FaudelSometimes our past can really affect our future. Vikki has done everything in her power to fight for her freedom, her kids and her sanity. Listen to her story about an abusive ex-husband who did a lot to create havoc and disarray in her life. Vikki is another badass mama who creates positive paths for people with her business, The Mindset Team. 2023-01-1630 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 30 w/Karyn TillmanKaryn is a badass mama who has done lots of different things but the most important is being a mom to her 2 kiddos. She wrote a book with her daughter about the struggles with Anorexia and how that mental health struggle can rock your world. She is a beautiful mama, inside and out and her story will give you hope that through love, hard work and dedication, you can overcome anything. 2023-01-0930 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 29 W/Brooke HengstAuthor, Real Estate Agent, twin mom, real estate investment expert and all around badass, Brooke Hengst was in studio sharing her mama journey and inspiring me to live my best life by always doing what makes my heart happy. Give a listen to Brooke's wisdom, love for her daughters and her success as a real estate agent in a thriving office. 2022-12-2729 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 28 W/Karleen WagnerKarleen's mama journey is not only heartwarming but she also gives us something to think about. When we look back at our past, it can only help us in our future. Our past is the window to our future and we can shape where we go by keeping the past in our rearview mirror. 2022-12-2131 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 27 w/Phyllis MarlenePhyllis Marlene is an entrepreneur and ingenious mama who sought something other than a 9-5 job that sucked the life out of her! Hear what she has to say about living your best life and figuring out what is best for YOU! 2022-12-1229 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 26 w/Jaquetta AndersonJaquetta is an ambitious mama with many balls in the air! Something she said resonated with me on a deep level. See if you can identify a fantastic quote by Jaquetta! It may make you stop and think about how you treat YOURSELF. She is kind, she is beautiful and she is a badass! Give a listen!2022-12-0530 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 25 w/Angela FullerJust when you think you might be out of the game, YOU CAN GET BACK IN! Angela is one badass mama who realized her dreams weren't done yet. She teaches us to DREAM BIG and realize that we can do ANYTHING we put her mind to. Give a listen and feel inspired!2022-11-2932 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 24 w/Liz HenleyAre you a mom of boys? Do you wonder how you will get through some of your crazy days? Do you believe in being absolutely and completely HONEST and REAL about motherhood? Liz is a breath of fresh air with her candid take on motherhood! Give a listen!2022-11-2134 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 23 w/Dani ClarkDani has a unique story with some twists and turns. Give a listen to how we explored our motherhood stories!2022-11-1632 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 22 w/Bri SalenWhen I first met Bri, I knew we would be fast friends. Her sense of humor and ability to make people feel heard and seen makes for a phenominal human being. Her 2 babies are lucky to have her and YANAM2M is lucky to have her as a Board member. Have a listen to her mama journey and how she is a badass!2022-11-0734 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 21 w/Sondia RobertsPrison...that's where Sondia had to parent from for many years. She was trying to create a life for her kids that their peers had and got caught up in it. Listen to her story and learn from her mistakes! You never know if you could be in her shoes!2022-10-3132 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 20 w/Trista BorregoWOW! Trista has such a powerful message! You will be blown away by her strength and ability to move past the mama heartbreak she endured with her daughter. Give a listen to her conversation with Nikki about persevering as a mama. 2022-10-2431 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 19 w/Christine ParsonsTake a listen to Nikki and Christine's discussion about how a severe hearing loss can change your path. How mothering is hard and also how mental health challenges can make or break you!2022-10-1824 minLet's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 18 w/Laura WyseLaura, a mom of 2, shares her motherhood journey and how teenagers can make or break you! Take a listen to Nikki and Laura's exploration of motherhood. 2022-10-1030 minLet's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 16 w/Amanda SakachAs a busy business owner with two teenage daughters, Amanda talks about her journey as a mom and how it has shaped her and the girls she is raising. Enjoy Nikki and Amanda's exploration of mamahood and how difficult it can be!2022-10-0731 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 16 w/Stefanie HolubStef and Nikki have been friends since 1997! Hear about their mama journey's and Stef's experience with the foster to adopt system in Colorado. TWINS and a great story for you to connect with and giggle with us!2022-09-2929 minLet's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 15 Laurian HolowitzGive a listen to Laurian and Nikki as they talk about their mama journeys! Laurian is a single mom, creating her own path and making a difference in the world. We hope you enjoy our talk!2022-09-2028 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journey's - Episode 14 w/Sheria ButlerDo you know anyone who has had 8 children????? I do! Sheria is one amazing mama who started her mama journey at the age of 14! This woman is amazing! You will not be disappointed.2022-09-1229 minLet's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journey's - Episode 13 w/Heather LutzeHeather and Nikki discuss their mamahood journeys, watching their kiddos grow and moving onto their own lives. Give a listen, giggle with us and maybe feel connected to our stories!2022-09-0529 minLet's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 12 w/Krista SimonsonYou won't want to miss this interview with Krista! Nikki and Krista explore the complexities of motherhood, the ups, the downs, the heartaches and the celebrations. Check her out! 2022-08-2329 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 11 w/Gina SchreckWhat a hoot Gina is! Wait until you hear about her mamahood journey and all the things she has learned along the way. She is a mom of adult children and doing amazing things in her own right. 2022-08-1533 min
Women CEO In ReflectionNikki BrookerNikki Brooker – Founder and CEO of YANAM2M (You are not alone, Mom to Mom) As a mom of 3, and a wife of 27 years, she is changing the world by giving all moms the support and peer-to-peer help that we all deserve. Yanam2mWww.yanam2m.org2022-08-1117 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journey's - Episode 10 w/Dana ChristensenWOW! This woman has 2...count them 2 sets of twins!!! You have to hear her story and learn how motherhood can be so very exciting but also daunting. Nikki and Dana talk about their motherhood stories and share stories that make them the moms they are today.2022-08-0831 minLet's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journey's - Episode 9 w/Janell ArantJoin Nikki and Janell and explore motherhood through their experiences. Divorce, life, teenagers, parenting in 2022...what a challenge but also what a great ride!2022-08-0233 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journey's - Episode 8 w/Gina FontaineJoin Gina and Nikki as they chat about mamahood, their experiences and how to be a Super Mom! Giggle with them, learn something and enjoy 30 minutes of feeling as though you are sitting in the room with them!2022-07-2731 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 7 w/Gina HeumannDiscover Gina and Nikki's mama journeys and maybe learn a little about trama and how it affects motherhood. Not everyone's story is the same and learning from each other is so important. 2022-07-1831 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 6 W/Abbey HarrisonAbbey and Nikki discuss motherhood, how twins change everything and how watching your eldest move on to adulthood can rip your heart out! Come along with us on our journey of mamahood and maybe giggle a little, learn something and have 30 minutes of YOU time!2022-07-1132 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 5 W/Connie LambNikki and Connie explore their mama journeys and learn from each other along the way. Motherhood is a journey and without other mamas, it's close to impossible. Learn how Connie and Nikki credit other mamas for helping them be better mamas. 2022-07-0530 minLet's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 4 w/Julie KesslerJoin Julie and Nikki as they expore their mama journeys and how number 2 can be SO different than number 1!2022-06-2730 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 3 w/Deborah FreemanJoin Deborah and Nikki as they explore their mama journeys and find out that sometimes pregnancy happens when you least expect it!2022-06-2232 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 2 Nikki's IntroductionMeet Nikki Brooker, the Founder and CEO of YANAM2M (You Are Not Alone - Mom 2 Mom), a 501c3 nonprofit in Colorado to support moms. She has a loving husband, 3 fabulous kiddos and a thriving photography business. She has been an educator for over 25 years and is passionate about the mental health of our moms. 2022-06-1338 min
Let's Be Real: Mama JourneysLet's Be Real - Mama Journeys - Episode 1 w/Taylor StaufferTaylor and Nikki talk about their mama journey's, and how being "real" changes motherhood. Learning from each other's jouneys can create a sense of belonging and acceptance that we don't have to do it alone!2022-06-0234 min