
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

In this episode of Motherhood Intended, Jacqueline chats with Evonne Roman who is a single mom, entrepreneur, and the founder of Sweet Gear about the transformative journey from corporate life to creative independence. Evonne shares the deeply personal story behind her business launch, the realities of solo parenting, and how reclaiming her identity fueled her professional and personal reinvention. Whether you’re dreaming of a new path or in the thick of a tough season, this conversation will leave you inspired to take that next brave step!What you’ll learn:What inspired Evonne to leave corporate life and start her businessHow she balances solo motherhood with entrepreneurshipThe role of intuition, timing, and resilience in navigating career shiftsWhat it takes to build a business from scratch as a single momWhy networking and real-life connections matter as much as online growthHow she structures her day for both flexibility and focusThe importance of accepting help and prioritizing self-careTools and routines that help her stay grounded and productiveThe mental health impact of entrepreneurship after personal hardshipEncouragement for moms thinking about making a career changeConnect with Evonne Roman:Sweet Shop GearInstagram: @sweetgearshopMailing List: Sign up via her shop for 15% off your first order!Send us a Text Message with questions, suggestions, or to just say hello!Recharge with David KoRecharge with Kevin Bacon, Chelsea Handler, Jordan Chiles and Common.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showIf you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving intended parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

In today's episode, Jacqueline has a conversation with Sarah Trott—tech executive, mom of three, and creator of the Fourth Trimester Podcast—to explore the crucial yet often overlooked postpartum period. They dive deep into how technology can compliment, not replace, the support new parents need, and Sarah shares the inspiration and utility behind her latest project, Hello Gaia, an AI-powered, trustworthy parenting resource tool. With warmth, candor, and a wealth of lived and learned experience, Sarah empowers moms to plan their fourth trimester with intention, resources, and confidence.What you'll learn:Why creating a fourth trimester plan is just as important as a birth planHow technology like Hello Gaia can support postpartum parents with vetted, reliable informationThe importance of doulas, postpartum care, and trustworthy support systemsPractical postpartum essentials to consider adding to your baby registryWhere to find reputable parenting information onlineWhy self-trust and intuition matter in your parenting journeyHow Sarah’s own experience led to the creation of Hello Gaia and her podcastWays to involve your partner in postpartum planning and careThe realities of postpartum emotional and physical recoveryThe hidden impact of maternity care deserts in the U.S.Connect with Sarah Trott:Website: Fourth Trimester PodcastHello Gaia: hellogaia.comInstagram: @fourthtrimesterpodcastBooks & Resources Mentioned:Book: The Power Pause by Neha RuchNiha Ruch’s platform: Mother Untitled (follow on Instagram!)App: IRTH (Birth without the Bias)Send us a Text Message with questions, suggestions, or to just say hello!Recharge with David KoRecharge with Kevin Bacon, Chelsea Handler, Jordan Chiles and Common.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showIf you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving intended parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

In this episode of Motherhood Intended, Jacqueline celebrates a significant milestone: the first birthday of her daughter Lorelei, who was born via surrogacy. Joined by her husband Josh, the two reflect on their journey from deciding to pursue surrogacy to reaching this joyous milestone. They discuss the emotional highs and lows, the logistics and financial challenges, and the overwhelming joy of bringing Lorelei into their family. Jacqueline and Josh share valuable insights and advice for other hopeful parents considering surrogacy, emphasizing the beauty of how families can be built in diverse and incredible ways. This heartwarming episode is not just a tribute to their daughter's first trip around the sun, but also an inspiring reminder that love, resilience, and intention are at the core of every family's journey.GET CONNECTED!Motherhood Intended:Motherhood Intended websiteJoin our FREE Motherhood Intended CommunityFollow along on IG: @motherhood_intendedLeave a review for the podcastApply to be a guest on the show!EPISODE BREAKDOWN:01:21 Reflecting on Lorelei's First Year03:41 Mixed Emotions on Completing Our Family07:57 The Day Lorelei Was Born11:03 Challenges of Parenting Three Kids14:29 Our Path to Surrogacy19:29 Navigating the Surrogacy Process23:36 Financial Realities of Surrogacy25:34 The Joy of Holding Our Baby for the First Time27:19 Reflecting on the Surrogacy Journey32:01 Bonding with Our Baby Through Surrogacy40:05 Hopes and Dreams for Lorelei's Future44:42 Advice for Hopeful Parents Considering SurrogacySend us a Text Message with questions, suggestions, or to just say hello!Recharge with David KoRecharge with Kevin Bacon, Chelsea Handler, Jordan Chiles and Common.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showIf you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving intended parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

In this episode, Jacqueline delves into the challenges and strategies of managing screen time for children. She shares her personal experiences navigating screen usage for her three kids, especially during the pandemic. Jacqueline discusses the guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics and her practical approach, such as using a screen time token system and visual timers. She highlights the importance of high-quality content, engaging alternatives to screens, and leading by example. Jacqueline also touches on the complexities of content control and communication with children about their screen time habits. She concludes by emphasizing flexibility and open dialogue as key components of managing screen time effectively.Products mentioned in the episode:Screen Time Tokens: https://amzn.to/4iewmSBVisual Timer for Kids: https://amzn.to/42GFnzi*Amazon affiliate. Earns commission on purchases.GET CONNECTED!Motherhood Intended:Motherhood Intended websiteJoin our FREE Motherhood Intended CommunitySend a DM for Jacqueline's Screen Time Chart PDF: @motherhood_intendedLeave a review for the podcastApply to be a guest on the show!EPISODE BREAKDOWN:01:00 Personal Experience with Screen Time02:34 AAP Guidelines for Screen Time04:16 Challenges and Strategies for Managing Screen Time04:43 Screen Time Token System11:00 Parental Controls and Content Management11:59 Screen Time for Younger Children15:00 Final Thoughts and AdviceSend us a Text Message with questions, suggestions, or to just say hello!Support the showIf you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving intended parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

Starting Solids: Evidence-Based Baby-Led Feeding with Cindy the Baby DieticianIn this episode, Jacqueline chats with Cindy, an experienced dietician and lactation consultant, about safe and effective methods for introducing solid foods to babies. Cindy discusses the general recommendations for starting solids at around six months, the signs of readiness, and debunks common myths about baby-led feeding. She shares practical tips on choosing nutrient-dense foods and stresses the importance of not pressuring children, which can lead to picky eating. Cindy also emphasizes the need for allergy prevention and the benefits of letting babies self-feed. The discussion includes insights from the book Cindy co-authored, 'Baby Leads the Way,' published by the American Academy of Pediatrics, which offers evidence-based guidance on starting solids.GET CONNECTED!Motherhood Intended:Motherhood Intended websiteJoin our FREE Motherhood Intended CommunityFollow @motherhood_intended on InstagramLeave a review for the podcastApply to be a guest on the show!Cinthia Scott, RD, IBCLC:Follow @the.baby.dietitian on InstagramStarting Solids 101 CourseBaby Leads the Way: An Evidence-Based Guide to Introducing Solid Foods101 Before One printed bookDownload the 101 Before One appEPISODE BREAKDOWN:01:26 Starting Solids: Expectations and Practices03:59 Introducing Food Allergens05:20 Benefits of Baby-Led Feeding08:00 Safety Tips for Baby-Led Weaning12:33 Nutrient-Packed First Foods15:56 Preventing Picky Eating21:49 Creating a Positive Mealtime Environment26:03 Understanding Baby-Led Feeding Myths29:12 Practical Tips for Family Meals32:11 Introducing 'Baby Leads The Way'Send us a Text Message with questions, suggestions, or to just say hello!Recharge with David KoRecharge with Kevin Bacon, Chelsea Handler, Jordan Chiles and Common.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showIf you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving intended parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

In this episode, Jacqueline welcomes on Melissa Tuleja, a working mom and advocate for an alcohol-free lifestyle. They discuss the concept of being 'sober curious,' especially within the context of motherhood and dealing with postpartum anxiety. Melissa shares her journey of quitting alcohol, the positive changes she experienced, and how the pandemic influenced her drinking habits. They also talk about the benefits of non-alcoholic beverages and mocktails as substitutes. This episode offers insights into making the shift away from alcohol, the support systems available, and the broader impacts on family and personal well-being.GET CONNECTED!Motherhood Intended:Motherhood Intended websiteJoin our FREE Motherhood Intended CommunityFollow @motherhood_intended on InstagramLeave a review for the podcastApply to be a guest on the show!Melissa on Instagram: @melissa.mocktailEPISODE BREAKDOWN:01:41 Guest Introduction: Melissa's Alcohol-Free Lifestyle05:14 Struggles with Postpartum Anxiety and Alcohol10:56 Starting the Alcohol-Free Journey13:47 Benefits of an Alcohol-Free Lifestyle15:44 Exploring Mocktails and Building Community21:27 Navigating Social Situations26:40 Advice for Moms Who Are Sober Curious28:05 Postpartum Experience Without Alcohol31:38 Mocktails and Changing Social NormsSend us a Text Message with questions, suggestions, or to just say hello!Recharge with David KoRecharge with Kevin Bacon, Chelsea Handler, Jordan Chiles and Common.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showIf you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving intended parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

In this episode of Motherhood Intended, Jacqueline welcomes on Angela Howard, a certified hypnotherapist and creator of the Motherwell app. Angela shares her journey into hypnotherapy, emphasizing its potential to help mothers overcome burnout, anxiety, and stress. She explains the science behind hypnotherapy and how it differs from common misconceptions. Angela introduces the Motherwell app, designed to provide accessible self-care tools for mothers, including daytime affirmations and sleep-focused sessions. The conversation highlights the app's goal to support mothers in finding joy, better mental health, and overall well-being. Angela also provides insights into her group programs and the importance of creating a positive environment for both mothers and their children.GET CONNECTED!Motherhood Intended:Motherhood Intended websiteJoin our FREE Motherhood Intended CommunityFollow @motherhood_intended on InstagramLeave a review for the podcastApply to be a guest on the show!Angela Howard:Follow Angela and Motherwell on Instagram: @thesubconsciousmom and @motherwellappGet the Motherwell app here: https://motherwell.mvt.so/Listener discount code: intended25^This code will give a 7 day free trial and then 50% off for 3 months!EPISODE BREAKDOWN:01:52 Podcast Updates and Future Plans05:42 Angela's Background and Journey20:46 Understanding Hypnotherapy24:34 The Mental Load of Motherhood25:29 The Importance of Maternal Joy27:53 Breaking Generational Cycles28:40 Introducing Motherwell29:30 Hypnotherapy for Moms32:11 The Motherwell App Features32:46 The Power of Community39:51 The Science Behind Hypnotherapy44:14 Final Thoughts and ResourcesSend us a Text Message with questions, suggestions, or to just say hello!Recharge with David KoRecharge with Kevin Bacon, Chelsea Handler, Jordan Chiles and Common.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showIf you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving intended parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

In this episode, Jacqueline is joined by Amy Wiebe, a mother and the creator of 'Olea the Magical Sleep Fairy.' Amy details her innovative approach to solving children's bedtime issues, combining story magic with the science of human design. She shares the origins of Olea, how it transformed bedtime routines for her kids, and the broader positive impacts on both children and parents. Amy also explains how to begin integrating Olea into listeners' routines, introduces her courses, and discusses the importance of understanding human design in parenting.GET CONNECTED!Motherhood Intended:Motherhood Intended websiteJoin our FREE Motherhood Intended CommunityFollow @motherhood_intended on InstagramLeave a review for the podcastApply to be a guest on the show!Amy Weibe:Follow @magicalsleepfairy on Instagram and FacebookMagical Sleep Fairy websiteGet the Sleep Fairy SystemBuy the Olea the Magical Sleep Fairy book on Amazon!EPISODE BREAKDOWN:01:42 Introducing Amy Wiebe and Olea the Magical Sleep Fairy03:27 Amy's Journey to Creating the Sleep Fairy09:39 Implementing the Sleep Fairy and Human Design20:00 Resources and How to Get Started28:07 Conclusion and Community InvitationSend us a Text Message with questions, suggestions, or to just say hello!Recharge with David KoRecharge with Kevin Bacon, Chelsea Handler, Jordan Chiles and Common.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showIf you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving intended parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

In this episode of The Village Chat, Jacqueline and her sister, Megan, delve into the topic of age gaps between siblings. They share their personal experiences and discuss the pros and cons of having children several years apart. Megan, who has an almost five-year-old son, talks about her thoughts and feelings on potentially expanding her family and the challenges that come with it. The sisters also compare their own experiences growing up as siblings close in age and the different dynamics that age gaps can create. GET CONNECTED!Motherhood Intended websiteJoin our FREE Motherhood Intended CommunityFollow @motherhood_intended on InstagramDownload Jacqueline's FREE Habit & Goal TrackerLeave a review for the podcastApply to be a guest on the show!EPISODE BREAKDOWN:00:20 Discussing Age Gaps Between Siblings01:31 Pros and Cons of Age Gaps03:20 Personal Experiences and Reflections04:52 Challenges and Fears of Having Another Child09:41 Balancing Career and Family15:20 Physical and Emotional Aspects of PregnancySend us a Text Message with questions, suggestions, or to just say hello!Recharge with David KoRecharge with Kevin Bacon, Chelsea Handler, Jordan Chiles and Common.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showIf you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving intended parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

In this episode, Jacqueline welcomes back Angela LeBlanc, a pelvic floor physical therapist, who returns to share insights on the interconnectedness of physical, mental, and emotional health, focusing particularly on Mercier Therapy. Angela discusses her own fertility journey, involving issues like ovulation problems, low progesterone, and dealing with ineffective treatments. She shares how Mercier Therapy became a pivotal part of her journey and elaborates on the importance of individualized care, the impact of trauma on pelvic health, and the role of alternative treatments. Angela emphasizes the significance of trusting one's gut and provides comprehensive advice on how women can educate themselves and find support through the fertility process. The episode serves as a valuable resource for those looking for deeper understanding and alternative approaches to women's health and fertility.GET CONNECTED!Motherhood Intended Podcast & Community:Motherhood Intended websiteJoin our FREE Motherhood Intended CommunityFollow @motherhood_intended on InstagramDownload Jacqueline's FREE Habit & Goal TrackerLeave a review for the podcastApply to be a guest on the show!Well + Core Physical Therapy:Follow @wellcorept on TikTok & InstagramWell + Core websiteLearn more about Dr. Angela & Mercier TherapyEPISODE BREAKDOWN:03:53 Understanding Mercier Therapy06:16 Angela's Personal Fertility Journey25:56 The Emotional Impact of Infertility30:49 Holistic Approaches to Fertility31:38 The Emotional and Physical Toll of IVF31:49 Empowerment Through Education38:31 The Importance of Mental Health49:16 Building a Supportive CommunitySend us a Text Message with questions, suggestions, or to just say hello!Recharge with David KoRecharge with Kevin Bacon, Chelsea Handler, Jordan Chiles and Common.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showIf you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving intended parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12