Podcast
Her Village
Hosted by Jacqueline Baird · EN
Her Village Podcast
This is the space where real women have real conversations — the ones we don’t always say out loud, but all feel in some way.
Hosted by Jacqueline Baird, this podcast goes beyond surface-level talk and into the stories, struggles, and moments that shape us — in motherhood, relationships, identity, and everything in between.
Through a mix of personal reflections and honest conversations with other women, each episode is designed to leave you feeling seen, understood, and a little less alone… while also giving you new perspective, insight, and the kind of validation you didn’t know you needed.
Because you’re not the only one thinking it.
And you don’t have to figure it out on your own.
Welcome to Her Village.
Connect with Her Village:
Instagram: @motherhood_intended
Join the email list: hervillage.kit.com/naperville
29episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
EP 135: Maybe You Did Better Than You Think
1w ago00:19:55Tap to summarizeAs summer winds down and back-to-school season approaches, it's easy to look back and wonder...Did I do enough?Did we make enough memories?Did my kids have the summer they deserved?Did I somehow miss the mark?If you've been carrying those thoughts, this episode is for you.In today's solo episode, Jacqueline shares an honest reflection on the pressure moms often put on themselves during the summer—from trying to create magical memories to balancing work, childcare, businesses, and everything in between.Whether you're a working mom, a stay-at-home mom, or somewhere in the middle, this conversation is a reminder that your worth isn't measured by Pinterest-worthy adventures or perfectly planned summers.Your kids don't need a perfect summer.They need you.In this episode, we'll talk about:Why moms feel so much pressure to "win" summerThe comparison trap of social mediaWhy working moms and stay-at-home moms are both carrying invisible loadsHow to redefine what a "successful" summer really looks likeWhy back-to-school can be a fresh start for moms, tooHow creating community for yourself is just as important as creating memories for your kidsIf this conversation encouraged you, I'd love for you to share it with another woman who may need to hear these words today.✨ Learn more about Her Village or join our email community at joinhervillage.co📍 Local to the Naperville area? We'd love to have you at an upcoming Her Village gathering!If you're enjoying the Her Village Podcast, leaving a rating and review is one of the best ways to help more women discover these conversations.Thank you for being here.I'm so grateful you're part of this village.Support the show__________________________________________________________________________________Her Village is more than a podcast—it’s a space for real connection, honest conversations, and meaningful friendships in the places we live.If you want to go deeper and stay connected beyond the podcast, you can join us here: joinhervillage.co 💛 __________________________________________________________________________________
Transcribe →EP 134: The Woman Behind Blue's Clues, Daniel Tiger & Princess Penelope's Purse of Preposterous Things | Angela Santomero
2w ago00:43:40Tap to summarizeSome stories entertain us.Others help shape who we become.This week on the Her Village Podcast, I'm joined by Emmy Award-winning creator, author, and storyteller Angela Santomero, whose work has helped generations of children learn, grow, and navigate the world with curiosity and confidence.Known for creating Blue's Clues and Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood, Angela shares the thoughtful research, educational philosophy, and heart behind the stories she's spent her career bringing to life. We explore why imagination isn't just play—it's a powerful tool for helping children build resilience, process emotions, solve problems, and develop empathy.We also dive into her newest YouTube series, Princess Penelope's Purse of Preposterous Things, and discuss how storytelling can encourage kids to embrace creativity, face uncertainty, and see challenges as opportunities for growth.Whether you're raising young children, missing the days of singing along with Blue's Clues, or simply interested in the lasting impact stories can have on our lives, this conversation is full of thoughtful insights and practical takeaways.In this episode, we discuss: Angela's journey creating Blue's Clues The lessons behind Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood Why imagination plays such an important role in childhood The research that guides Angela's storytelling Helping children build confidence and emotional resilience Encouraging curiosity, kindness, and creativity Angela's newest project, Princess Penelope's Purse of Preposterous Things What parents can take away from the stories their children love If this episode resonates with you, I'd love for you to share it with another parent, grandparent, educator, or anyone who believes in the power of raising kind humans.And if you're looking for connection in your own season of life, I'd love to welcome you into Her Village—a community where women come together to build meaningful friendships, support one another, and remember they don't have to do life alone.Support the show__________________________________________________________________________________Her Village is more than a podcast—it’s a space for real connection, honest conversations, and meaningful friendships in the places we live.If you want to go deeper and stay connected beyond the podcast, you can join us here: joinhervillage.co 💛 __________________________________________________________________________________
Transcribe →EP 133: What I Learned About Friendship After Starting Her Village
3w ago00:17:36Tap to summarizeWhen I started Her Village, I thought I was creating a place where women could make new friends.What I didn't expect was what those first few months would teach me—not just about friendship, but about belonging.In this solo episode, I'm sharing some of the biggest lessons I've learned while building this community from the ground up. From women nervously walking into events alone to conversations that linger long after the official end time, I've realized that what so many of us are searching for isn't simply more friends—it's a place where we can show up as ourselves and feel genuinely connected.If you've ever wondered why making friends as an adult feels so different, or if you've found yourself craving deeper connection in this season of life, this episode is for you.In this episode, I share:Why I realized women aren't just looking for more friends—they're looking for belonging.What surprised me most after hosting Her Village events.The biggest misconception about adult friendship.Why meaningful connection takes intention in this stage of life.Small, brave steps you can take to begin building your own village.Whether you're navigating motherhood, a new city, a career change, or simply a season where life feels a little lonely or disconnected, I hope this conversation reminds you that you're not the only one looking for your people.And maybe… your village starts with one conversation, one invitation, or one courageous "yes."🌻 Connect with Her VillageIf you're local to the Chicago suburbs and looking for meaningful connection with other women, I'd love to welcome you to an upcoming Her Village gathering.Learn more at joinhervillage.coFollow along on Instagram: @hervillagehqSupport the show__________________________________________________________________________________Her Village is more than a podcast—it’s a space for real connection, honest conversations, and meaningful friendships in the places we live.If you want to go deeper and stay connected beyond the podcast, you can join us here: joinhervillage.co 💛 __________________________________________________________________________________
Transcribe →EP 132: Why Making Friends as an Adult Feels So Hard (and What We Can Do About It) with Alex Gohla
4w ago01:05:10Tap to summarizeWhen we're kids, friendship just... happens.We're surrounded by classmates, teammates, roommates, and neighbors. But somewhere between careers, motherhood, relationships, and the never-ending to-do list, making meaningful friendships can start to feel surprisingly difficult.In this episode, I'm joined by licensed clinical social worker, therapist, and founder of Bluebird Counseling Services, Alexandria Gohla, to unpack why connection feels so much harder in adulthood—and why so many women find themselves longing for something deeper than another group chat.Alex shares insights from her work with women, the inspiration behind her upcoming book, More Than the Group Chat, and the importance of vulnerability, intentionality, and creating spaces where women feel safe to truly belong.Together, we explore: Why adult friendships require more intention than they did growing up What's really keeping women from forming deeper connections The difference between being surrounded by people and feeling genuinely known How vulnerability strengthens relationships Practical ways to begin building meaningful friendships—even if you're starting from scratch Why online communities can be a starting point, but in-person connection still matters If you've ever caught yourself thinking, "I wish I had people like that," this conversation is for you.Connect with Alex:Blue Bird Counseling ServicesMore Than the Group ChatConnect with Her Village:If you're longing for deeper connection and you're local to the Chicago suburbs, I'd love to meet you at an upcoming Her Village event!🌻 Learn more: joinhervillage.co📸 Instagram: @hervillagehqSupport the show__________________________________________________________________________________Her Village is more than a podcast—it’s a space for real connection, honest conversations, and meaningful friendships in the places we live.If you want to go deeper and stay connected beyond the podcast, you can join us here: joinhervillage.co 💛 __________________________________________________________________________________
Transcribe →EP 131: She Left Her Career to Raise Her Kids. Then She Started Again. | Dr. Vandana Arcot
Jun 1800:45:42Tap to summarizeShe Left Her Career to Raise Her Kids. Then She Started Again.What happens when the life you've built no longer fits the woman you're becoming?This week on the Her Village Podcast, Jacqueline sits down with Dr. Vandana Arcot to talk about identity, ambition, motherhood, and the courage it takes to reinvent yourself.After a successful global health career spanning more than a decade and work across 13+ countries, Dr. Arcot made the decision to step away from her professional life to focus on raising her children. Years later, she found herself navigating the vulnerable process of returning—not to who she used to be, but to a new version of herself.Together, Jacqueline and Dr. Arcot explore:• The emotional realities of stepping away from a career to focus on family• Losing—and rediscovering—your sense of identity• The guilt and fear that can come with wanting something more• How motherhood reshaped Dr. Arcot's definition of success and leadership• The pressure women feel to choose between caregiving and ambition• Why reinvention isn't about becoming someone new—it's about reclaiming the parts of yourself that were waiting to be rediscovered• The permission to evolve through different seasons of lifeDr. Arcot is the founder of Komselj, a strategy firm advancing women's and children's health and empowerment worldwide, and VUND, a home décor and fragrance company that supports women-led beekeeping initiatives. Her work has helped raise millions for global health causes while empowering women and communities around the world.If you've ever wondered whether it's too late to dream again, pivot careers, pursue a passion, or redefine what success means to you, this conversation is for you.Because every season changes us—and sometimes beginning again is exactly what we're meant to do.Connect with Dr. Vandana Arcot:Website: https://www.komselj.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drvandanaarcot/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drvandanarcot Support the show__________________________________________________________________________________Her Village is more than a podcast—it’s a space for real connection, honest conversations, and meaningful friendships in the places we live.If you want to go deeper and stay connected beyond the podcast, you can join us here: joinhervillage.co 💛 __________________________________________________________________________________
Transcribe →EP 130: The Reinvention Nobody Talks About
Jun 1600:18:44Tap to summarizeReinvention is often portrayed as a dramatic before-and-after moment—a bold leap, a fresh start, a perfectly curated transformation.But what if it doesn't look like that at all?In this solo episode, Jacqueline shares what she's learning about reinvention while living it in real time. From infertility and loss to motherhood, podcasting, and building Her Village, she reflects on the many versions of herself she's loved, outgrown, and carried with her along the way.Together, we'll explore:• Why reinvention can feel a lot like grief—even when it's chosen• The pressure women feel to justify change• What happens when people don't understand your evolution• The courage it takes to keep going in the messy middle• How to recognize when restlessness may actually be an invitationIf you've been questioning what's next, missing parts of who you used to be, or wondering if you're allowed to want something different, this conversation is for you.You don't have to have all the answers before you take the next step.Maybe you're not lost.Maybe you're becoming.P.S. This conversation is the first in a series of episodes exploring what it means to evolve through motherhood, identity shifts, and the changing seasons of womanhood. I can't wait for you to hear what's coming next.Support the show__________________________________________________________________________________Her Village is more than a podcast—it’s a space for real connection, honest conversations, and meaningful friendships in the places we live.If you want to go deeper and stay connected beyond the podcast, you can join us here: joinhervillage.co 💛 __________________________________________________________________________________
Transcribe →EP 129: What Happened When We Finally Got Women in the Same Room
May 1600:18:01Tap to summarizeSomething unexpected happened at the first Her Village gatherings.Women walked in nervous… and walked out feeling lighter, more connected, and reminded that they’re not alone.In this solo episode, I’m sharing reflections from our very first gatherings and why I believe women are craving real, in-person community more than ever before.We talk about:the loneliness of modern motherhoodwhy making friends as an adult feels so hardthe power of getting women in the same roomwhat I observed during our first Her Village meetupsmotherhood, identity, and connectionwhy I believe we all need a village againThis episode is less about events — and more about what happens when women finally feel safe enough to exhale.If you’ve been craving deeper connection, this conversation is for you.Connect with Her Village:Instagram: @hervillagehqJoin the email list: joinhervillage.coSupport the show__________________________________________________________________________________Her Village is more than a podcast—it’s a space for real connection, honest conversations, and meaningful friendships in the places we live.If you want to go deeper and stay connected beyond the podcast, you can join us here: joinhervillage.co 💛 __________________________________________________________________________________
Transcribe →EP 128: Welcome to Her Village (Trailer)
May 800:03:16Tap to summarizeIf you’ve been here for a while, you know this podcast has always been rooted in real conversations.From the very beginning, Motherhood Intended was a space for the stories behind the highlight reel—centered around infertility, family building, and the journey to motherhood.But life evolves… and so do we.In this trailer episode, I’m sharing why this podcast is shifting, what this new season looks like, and what you can expect moving forward.Welcome to Her Village—a space for real women, real stories, and honest conversations about the things we don’t always say out loud.Whether you’re navigating motherhood, identity, relationships, growth, or everything in between… you’re not alone.And you don’t have to figure it out on your own.I’m so glad you’re here.Follow along for weekly conversations and new episodes as they’re released.Connect with me: Instagram: @hervillagehq Join the email list: joinhervillage.coSupport the show__________________________________________________________________________________Her Village is more than a podcast—it’s a space for real connection, honest conversations, and meaningful friendships in the places we live.If you want to go deeper and stay connected beyond the podcast, you can join us here: joinhervillage.co 💛 __________________________________________________________________________________
Transcribe →Life After Infertility: An Honest Update and the Beginning of Her Village
Mar 1900:16:06Tap to summarizeWhat happens when the season of life that shaped your story begins to change?In this episode, I’m sharing an honest update about the evolution of Your Fertility Village, how my own infertility journey has shifted now that our family is complete, and the new vision that has been growing on my heart: Her Village.When I first started the Motherhood Intended podcast, I was still in the thick of processing my infertility journey. I had experienced infertility, loss, IVF, the NICU, and eventually grew our family through surrogacy. During that season, supporting women navigating infertility felt like the most natural extension of my story.But life has changed over the past few years.Our family is now complete, and while infertility will always be part of my story and something I care deeply about, it’s no longer at the center of my everyday life in the same way. I realized that leading a community centered entirely around infertility wasn’t where my heart felt most aligned anymore.Instead, I began thinking about a different kind of community — one that supports women in the many seasons of life that come after infertility and early motherhood.That idea became Her Village.Her Village is about creating spaces where women can build real friendships and meaningful connection in the communities where they live. A village for women who may feel like they’re in-between seasons of life — raising young kids, rediscovering themselves after motherhood, navigating life after infertility, or simply craving deeper conversations and real connection again.I’m starting small here in Naperville with the first gathering called Her Village: Founders Night, and I’m excited to see where this vision grows from here.If you’re local to Naperville and the idea of building real friendships, and community resonates with you, I’d love to hear from you.Thank you for being here and for continuing to grow alongside me.However your journey to motherhood unfolds, I’m really glad you’re not walking it alone.xo, JacquelineSupport the show__________________________________________________________________________________Her Village is more than a podcast—it’s a space for real connection, honest conversations, and meaningful friendships in the places we live.If you want to go deeper and stay connected beyond the podcast, you can join us here: joinhervillage.co 💛 __________________________________________________________________________________
Transcribe →This Is What My Days Look Like Right Now
Feb 1000:26:44Tap to summarizeA real day in the life of a stay-at-home mom in this season of motherhood.What does a real day actually look like in this season of motherhood?In this solo episode, Jacqueline walks you through a true day in the life — from the moment she wakes up to when the house finally goes quiet at night. Not the highlight reel. Not the optimized routine. Just the honest rhythm of life right now as a stay-at-home mom of three, balancing motherhood, mental load, and creative work.Jacqueline shares what mornings look like getting two kids out the door for school, how her days shift depending on whether her toddler is home with her or at her school program, and how her work as a podcaster happens in small pockets of quiet time. She talks about the invisible labor of motherhood, the constant emotional regulation, and the tension between being present with your kids while still wanting space for your own purpose.This episode is for any mom who feels like her days are full but invisible, meaningful but hard to quantify — and who needs the reminder that showing up counts, even when there’s no checklist to prove it.In this episode, we talk about:A real day in the life of a stay-at-home momManaging the mental load of motherhoodParenting multiple kids in different stagesWorking and creating during naps and school hoursAfter-school chaos, activities, and evening routinesWhy some seasons of motherhood are about maintenance, not growthLetting go of productivity pressure in motherhood✨ Reflection prompt: What does your day actually require of you — emotionally, mentally, and physically?🔗 Connect + Resources MentionedGet on the email listFollow on InstagramJoin the Motherhood Intended Podcast Community on FacebookBecome a member of Your Fertility VillageCheck out Beddy’s and see how much they’ve simplified morning routines and bedtime in this season of life!Support the show__________________________________________________________________________________Her Village is more than a podcast—it’s a space for real connection, honest conversations, and meaningful friendships in the places we live.If you want to go deeper and stay connected beyond the podcast, you can join us here: joinhervillage.co 💛 __________________________________________________________________________________
Transcribe →