There are few experiences as universal to human existence as pregnancy and childbirth, and yet its most difficult parts — perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) — are still dealt with in the shadows, shrouded in stigma. The fact is 1 in 5 new and expecting birthing people will experience a PMAD, yet among those who do many are afraid to talk about it, some are not even aware they’re experiencing one, and others don’t know where to turn for help. The fact is, when someone suffers from a maternal mental health disorder it affects not only them, their babies, partners, and families - it impacts our communities. In the Previa Alliance Podcast series, Sarah Parkhurst and Whitney Gay are giving air to a vastly untapped topic by creating a space for their guests — including survivors of PMADs and healthcare professionals in maternal mental health — to share their experiences and expertise openly. And in doing so, Sarah and Whitney make it easy to dig deep and get real about the facts of perinatal mental health, fostering discussions about the raw realities of motherhood. Not only will Previa Alliance Podcast listeners walk away from each episode with a sense of belonging, they’ll also be armed with evidence-based tools for healing, coping mechanisms, and the language to identify the signs and symptoms of PMADs — the necessary first steps in a path to treatment. The Previa Alliance Podcast series is intended for anyone considering pregnancy, currently pregnant, and postpartum as well as the families and communities who support them. Sarah Parkhurst Previa Alliance Podcast Co-host; Founder & CEO of Previa Alliance A postpartum depression survivor and mom to two boys, Sarah is on a mission to destigmatize the experiences of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), and to educate the world on the complex reality of being a mom. Sarah has been working tirelessly to bring to light the experiences of women who have not only suffered a maternal mental health crisis but who have survived it and rebuilt their lives. By empowering women to share their own experiences, by sharing expert advice and trusted resources, and by advocating for health care providers and employers to provide support for these women and their families, Sarah believes as a society we can minimize the impact of the current maternal mental health crisis, while staving off future ones. Whitney Gay Previa Alliance Podcast Co-host; licensed clinician and therapist For the past ten years, Whitney has been committed to helping women heal from the trauma of a postpartum mental health crisis as well as process the grief of a miscarriage or the loss of a baby. She believes that the power of compassion paired with developing critical coping skills helps moms to heal, rebuild, and eventually thrive. In the Previa Alliance Podcast series, Whitney not only shares her professional expertise, but also her own personal experiences of motherhood and recovery from grief. Follow us on Instagram @Previa.Alliance
Sometimes the healthiest response is no response at all. In this episode, Sarah and Whitney explore why not every action deserves a reaction. We discuss boundaries, emotional regulation, people-pleasing, protecting your peace, and how choosing silence can be one of the strongest forms of self-care. If you've ever struggled with difficult relationships, conflict, or knowing when to walk away, this episode is for you. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previa.alliance) • Instagram photos and videos Previa Alliance Podcast (@previapodcast) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the questions coming by sending them to info@previaalliance.com or DM us on Instagram!
Why Didn't Anyone Explain Birth Like This
Nobody should walk into labor, an epidural, or a C-section feeling like the process is a mystery. In this episode, we discuss why clear patient education is often missing, how fear of the unknown can increase anxiety and contribute to birth trauma, and the real-world challenges providers face in preparing families for delivery. We also share practical ways to advocate for better communication, set realistic expectations for birth, and process difficult experiences, offering support for anyone who is pregnant, postpartum, or helping a loved one navigate the journey. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previa.alliance) • Instagram photos and videos Previa Alliance Podcast (@previapodcast) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the questions coming by sending them to info@previaalliance.com or DM us on Instagram!
Why Moms Are Mentally Exhausted: The Invisible Mental Load of Motherhood
Ever feel like your brain has 47 tabs open at all times? Same. This week Sarah and Whitney are talking about the invisible mental load moms carry every single day — the constant remembering, planning, anticipating, organizing, managing emotions, and making decisions for everyone around us. From school forms and meal planning to emotional regulation and “default parent” responsibilities, motherhood is mentally exhausting in ways people don’t always see. And sometimes it’s not the big things that break us… it’s one more person asking us one more question after making 10,000 decisions already that day. They discuss: decision fatigue in motherhood why moms feel overstimulated invisible labor and emotional load perfectionism and over-functioning why we struggle to delegate practical ways to reduce mental overload If you’ve been feeling mentally drained, snappy, numb, overstimulated, or like your brain never shuts off…this episode will make you feel seen. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previa.alliance) • Instagram photos and videos Previa Alliance Podcast (@previapodcast) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the questions coming by sending them to info@previaalliance.com or DM us on Instagram!
I Love My Kids... But I Miss My Freedom
Motherhood can be beautiful and grief-filled at the exact same time. In this deeply honest episode, Sarah and Whitney talk about something many moms feel but are terrified to admit: missing their freedom, independence, identity, and old life after becoming mothers. This is not about regret. This is about the very real identity shift that happens in motherhood. Together they discuss: loss of independence after kids identity changes in motherhood matrescence and emotional shifts why moms feel guilty admitting this resentment, burnout, and invisible sacrifices reconnecting with yourself outside of motherhood If you’ve ever thought: “I love my kids…but I miss parts of who I used to be,” ... You are not alone. This episode is a reminder that grieving pieces of your old self does not make you a bad mom — it makes you human. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previa.alliance) • Instagram photos and videos Previa Alliance Podcast (@previapodcast) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the questions coming by sending them to info@previaalliance.com or DM us on Instagram!
Moms Are Mind Readers… Why Aren’t You?
From the moment our babies are born, we become experts in them. We notice every pattern. Every cry means something different. Every shift, every need—we just know . We become mind readers. But what happens when that same mindset shows up in our adult relationships? When we expect our partner to just know what we need… When we don’t say it out loud because it feels obvious… When the expectations go unspoken—and unmet… That’s where resentment builds. This week, we’re breaking down the “mind reading trap” in motherhood—why it happens, how it impacts our relationships, and how to shift from silent expectations to real communication. Because your partner isn’t your baby… And mind reading doesn’t work both ways. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previa.alliance) • Instagram photos and videos Previa Alliance Podcast (@previapodcast) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the questions coming by sending them to info@previaalliance.com or DM us on Instagram!
Why You Saw It and No One Else Did
Ever felt like you were the only one seeing the truth? Something felt off. The charm didn’t sit right. The stories didn’t fully add up… But everyone else? Completely pulled in. Almost like they were under a spell. In this episode, we break down the “narcissist spell”—why some people are so convincing, how they draw others in so easily, and why you were able to see what others couldn’t. If you’ve ever questioned your gut, doubted yourself, or looked back and thought how did I miss that? —this episode will hit. Because you didn’t imagine it. And you’re not the only one who’s been there. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previa.alliance) • Instagram photos and videos Previa Alliance Podcast (@previapodcast) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the questions coming by sending them to info@previaalliance.com or DM us on Instagram!
Previa Playback: Infertility Awareness with Erin & Stephen Mitchell
In honor of Infertility Awareness Week, Sarah sits down with crowd favorites Erin and Stephen Mitchell from Couples Counseling for Parents to discuss how trying to conceive, infertility, and pregnancy loss affect relationships. From self-blame to communication breakdown, this honest conversation explores navigating this incredibly difficult journey and having hard conversations with yourself and your partner. Erin and Stephen are the cofounders of Couples Counseling for Parents, a company focused on providing access to research-informed, psychologically sound online education for couples. Both have a clinical education—Stephen, a PhD in medical family therapy, and Erin, a master’s degree in counseling psychology—and they have a combined 23 years of experience providing counseling and education. They have been married for 16 years and have three kids. Connect with Erin and Stephen! Instagram: @couples.counseling.for.parents Website: couplescounselingforparents.com/ Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previa.alliance) • Instagram photos and videos Previa Alliance Podcast (@previapodcast) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the questions coming by sending them to info@previaalliance.com or DM us on Instagram!
Previa Playback: What is Postpartum Rage?
The fourth episode we cover during Maternal Mental health month is a topic that is often felt but not talked about, postpartum rage. Postpartum rage is a mood disruption that causes intense anger, aggression, and agitation in the weeks and months after giving birth. At Previa Alliance, one of the most frequent questions we get is, “Why do I feel so angry?” Today, the ladies break down what postpartum rage is, why new moms experience it, and what you can do to manage it. We hope this conversation leads to more education and less shame and judgment. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previa.alliance) • Instagram photos and videos Previa Alliance Podcast (@previapodcast) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the questions coming by sending them to info@previaalliance.com or DM us on Instagram!
Previa Playback: What is Postpartum Psychosis?
The final episode we discuss during Maternal Mental health month is one that is a true medical emergency, postpartum psychosis. This episode comes with a trigger warning as this condition, which is rare, is tough to discuss and understand. Our hope for this episode is that you gain knowledge about this little-talked about condition and know to get help. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previa.alliance) • Instagram photos and videos Previa Alliance Podcast (@previapodcast) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the questions coming by sending them to info@previaalliance.com or DM us on Instagram!
Previa Playback: What is Postpartum Anxiety?
The second episode in maternal mental health month is "What is Postpartum Anxiety?" Are you feeling overwhelmed and anxious about your new role? Do you find yourself struggling to cope with the changes in your life after having a baby? Well, we've got your back! In our latest episode of The Previa Alliance Podcast, we're diving deep into postpartum anxiety and sharing some seriously helpful coping strategies that you can start implementing today. We'll be discussing the importance of therapy, positive affirmations, grounding techniques, and much more. We want to help you take control of your mental health and feel confident in your new role as a parent. So grab a pen and paper, take some notes, and let's tackle this together! Tune in now on your favorite podcast platform and let's get started. #postpartumanxiety #mentalhealthawareness #newparentstruggles #copingstrategies Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previa.alliance) • Instagram photos and videos Previa Alliance Podcast (@previapodcast) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the questions coming by sending them to info@previaalliance.com or DM us on Instagram!
Previa Playback: What is Postpartum Depression?
In this episode, Sarah and Whitney talk about postpartum depression, also known as PPD. They describe signs and symptoms of PPD, risk factors for developing PPD, and what PPD looks like and sounds like in real life. We encourage everyone to download this episode and share with your friends and families so everyone knows what PPD is and how to help moms who experience it! Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previa.alliance) • Instagram photos and videos Previa Alliance Podcast (@previapodcast) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the questions coming by sending them to info@previaalliance.com or DM us on Instagram!
Previa Playback: Anxiety During Pregnancy
What if I can't do this? Is the baby, ok? Why do I feel this way? Sound familiar? Pregnancy anxiety is common but often not talked about. Listen in as the ladies break down why you may experience anxiety during pregnancy and how to manage it. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previa.alliance) • Instagram photos and videos Previa Alliance Podcast (@previapodcast) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the questions coming by sending them to info@previaalliance.com or DM us on Instagram!
Previa Playback: Depression During Pregnancy
This week, Sarah goes back to a fan favorite episode for Maternal Mental Health Month, Depression During Pregnancy. You know about postpartum depression, but do you know about depression that occurs during pregnancy? Listen in as Sarah and Whitney talk about the risk factors, what depression during pregnancy looks like, and how to advocate for yourself. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previa.alliance) • Instagram photos and videos Previa Alliance Podcast (@previapodcast) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the questions coming by sending them to info@previaalliance.com or DM us on Instagram!
Burned Out, Not Broken: The Truth About Stress in Moms
You’re not “just tired.” You’re overloaded. In this episode, we break down the difference between stress, anxiety, burnout, and depression — and why high-achieving moms often miss the warning signs. We talk about chronic cortisol, invisible labor, perfectionism, and why burnout often shows up as irritability before sadness. If you’ve ever thought, “I should be grateful… so why am I so exhausted?” This conversation is for you. Burnout isn’t weakness. It’s biology. And support shouldn’t start when you collapse. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previa.alliance) • Instagram photos and videos Previa Alliance Podcast (@previapodcast) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the questions coming by sending them to info@previaalliance.com or DM us on Instagram!
The Birthday Tears: Why Watching Your Child Grow Feels So Emotional
Why does your child’s birthday make you cry? In this episode, we unpack the unexpected mix of joy and grief that comes with milestones, new phases, and watching your child grow. We explore attachment, nostalgia, ambiguous loss, and why the days feel long — but the years feel fast. If you’ve ever stayed up scrolling baby photos or felt tender on a milestone day, you’re not dramatic. You’re deeply attached. Motherhood holds joy and grief at the same time. And both are allowed here. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previa.alliance) • Instagram photos and videos Previa Alliance Podcast (@previapodcast) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the questions coming by sending them to info@previaalliance.com or DM us on Instagram!
“I Can’t!” - What to Do When Kids Doubt Themselves with Renee Marie
When your child says “I can’t do this” … or starts comparing themselves to others… it can be hard to know what to say. In this episode, Sarah sits down with Renee Marie , founder of My Secret Playbook , to talk about the years when confidence often starts to dip—especially between ages 6–14 . They discuss how kids develop self-talk, why comparison becomes so powerful during these years, and how parents can help children reframe negative thoughts and build real confidence. Renee also shares how her own experience as a mom led her to create a storytelling-based resource that helps kids understand social situations, navigate friendships, and believe in themselves. If you’ve ever wondered how to respond when your child doubts themselves, this conversation will give you practical ways to support confidence, resilience, and social skills at home. https://mysecretplaybook.com/ Renee is a mom of three and the author of My Secret Playbook of Life , a book created to help kids build confidence, strengthen social skills, and develop resilience through the power of storytelling. She believes stories are one of the most effective ways children learn life lessons and start to believe in themselves. Her mission is to give kids simple, practical tools they can use in real life—whether that’s learning how to join a conversation, handle mistakes, or stop comparing themselves to others. Renee has generously offered our listeners 20% off on her website. Just use the code PREVIA20 at checkout to receive the discount. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previa.alliance) • Instagram photos and videos Previa Alliance Podcast (@previapodcast) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the questions coming by sending them to info@previaalliance.com or DM us on Instagram!
What Is a Child Therapist and Why Would My Child Need to See One?
Parenting can feel overwhelming, and sometimes we wonder—would a child therapist help my kid? In this episode, Sarah sits down with Madison Curren, licensed child therapist to share what therapy really looks like, when it can make a difference, and how parents can feel supported in the process.
When It’s Not Postpartum Depression: The Bipolar Diagnosis Many Moms Miss
Is it postpartum depression—or could it be bipolar disorder? In this episode, Sarah sits down with reproductive psychiatrist Dr. Claire Smith to talk about why bipolar disorder during pregnancy and postpartum is often missed, especially bipolar II. They break down the key differences between bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, and postpartum psychosis, why sleep is a critical factor in mood stability, and how the right diagnosis can completely change a mom’s treatment and recovery. An important conversation for mothers, partners, and providers who want to better understand bipolar illness in the perinatal period—and why getting the diagnosis right matters. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previa.alliance) • Instagram photos and videos Previa Alliance Podcast (@previapodcast) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the questions coming by sending them to info@previaalliance.com or DM us on Instagram!
Spring Is Here, but Is Your Engine Check Light On Too?
Spring is here, and before we rush into the next season, we’re pressing pause. In this episode, Sarah and Whitney guide a gentle self check-in—asking what you’re carrying, how you’re responding, and what your nervous system might be trying to tell you. If you’ve been feeling off, overwhelmed, or just tired of pushing through, this episode is for you. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previa.alliance) • Instagram photos and videos Previa Alliance Podcast (@previapodcast) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the questions coming by sending them to info@previaalliance.com or DM us on Instagram!
Social Work Month with Paige Bellenbaum
What if we trained for maternal mental health the way we train for everything else in medicine? In this powerful episode, Sarah sits down with Paige Bellenbaum during Social Work Awareness Month to talk about the truth behind social work—and why social workers are essential to solving the maternal mental health crisis. Paige shares her own experience with postpartum depression and anxiety, the misconceptions people have about social workers, and the bold work she’s leading to train the next generation in perinatal mental health. From classrooms to policy change, this conversation is about prevention, education, and making sure no mom falls through the cracks. If you care about mothers, systems change, and building real support for families—this is one you don’t want to miss. Visit Paige and get her contact info at Paige Bellenbaum Consulting ! Here are links to other supportive organizations: Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance (MMHLA) Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previa.alliance) • Instagram photos and videos Previa Alliance Podcast (@previapodcast) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the questions coming by sending them to info@previaalliance.com or DM us on Instagram!
