Do you want the truth? – Details, episodes & analysis

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In this episode, we’re sitting down with Blake, a Meta copywriter and creative director and TikTok sensation, best known for his "This Week in Fatherhood" series. We'll explore the nuances of sober parenting, the impact of COVID-19 on family dynamics, and the hidden challenges and joys of raising children. Blake opens up about losing his mother to cancer, career instability, and transitioning to fatherhood amid a global pandemic. We'll also touch on the double standards in parental recognition, the significance of martial arts in Blake's life, and the bittersweet realities of balancing a social media presence with family privacy.

Tune in to hear:

• The complex feelings parents have about screen time for both themselves and their kids and how it often leads to unnecessary guilt.
• Reflections on parenting during the pandemic and how isolation and fear impacted Blake’s early fatherhood journey and heightened anxiety as a parent.
• How the profound grief from losing his mom prepared Blake in unexpected ways for fatherhood
• Blake’s journey with sobriety and how it has significantly impacted his ability to be more present and engaged as a father.
• They key advice Blake would give to new parents: lower your expectations—for your kids and yourself—and embrace the surprises and imperfections of parenthood.

Learn more about Blake here: https://www.doyouwantthetruthpod.com/our-guests/blake

Connect with Blake:

Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@blakeoftoday

Instagram: instagram.com/@blakeoftoday

Parenting Keywords:
parenting advice, fatherhood journey, raising kids, parenthood struggles, parenting during the pandemic, new parent tips, fatherhood content creator

Jiu-Jitsu & Wellness Keywords:
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, jiu-jitsu life lessons, black belt wisdom, mental discipline, wellness and parenting

Punk Rock & Personal Story Keywords:
from punk rock to parenthood, touring musician turned dad, life after hardcore punk, Blake Kasemeier podcast, creative parenting stories

Emotional & Personal Growth Keywords:
grief and parenting, loss of a parent, Good Grief podcast, overcoming challenges, mental health for parents, personal growth journey

Social Media-Specific Hashtags:
#ParentingPodcast, #FatherhoodStories, #JiuJitsuParenting, #PunkRockDad, #ParentingLifeLessons, #CreativeParenting, #FatherhoodUnplugged

Support the show

Website: https://www.doyouwantthetruthpod.com

Connect with Sam:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/samanthastrom

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@samanthastorms

Connect with Zara:

Zara Hanawalt https://www.linkedin.com/in/zara-hanawalt/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@zarahanawalt

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zarahanawalt/

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What do you do when your birth plan starts to fall apart, and how do you advocate for yourself?

In today’s episode, we dive into the often unspoken realities of childbirth and maternal mental health with our guest, Valerie. She shares her raw and powerful story of a traumatic birth experience, lack of paid leave and her journey of resilience and healing. Together, we explore the impact of childbirth trauma, the urgent need for better maternity leave policies, and how therapy and open conversations can be transformative. 

Tune in to hear:

• The importance of preparing for every possible birth scenario, advocating for oneself, and being well-informed about different childbirth methods, including vaginal birth, c-sections, and induction
• The benefits of EMDR therapy and time in coping with PTSD and the crucial role of mental health support during the postpartum period
• An exploration of the gaps in maternity leave policies and support for expecting mothers and calling for better resources and flexibility to balance work and family life
• The importance of normalizing discussions around traumatic birth experiences and the mental health challenges associated with childbirth to provide comfort and help break the isolation many new mothers feel

Learn more about Valerie here: https://www.doyouwantthetruthpod.com/our-guests/valerie

Connect with Valerie:

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@valerieoresko

Instagram: www.instagram.com/valerieoresko

Support the show

Website: https://www.doyouwantthetruthpod.com

Connect with Sam:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/samanthastrom

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@samanthastorms

Connect with Zara:

Zara Hanawalt https://www.linkedin.com/in/zara-hanawalt/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@zarahanawalt

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zarahanawalt/

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In our debut episode, we are joined by Emi Naegle, a Utah-based mom to discuss her journey through infertility, pregnancy, and a rare peripartum heart condition called peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM). Emi shares how these experiences have shaped her perspective on motherhood, health, and the importance of advocating for oneself.

Tune in to hear:

• The signs of peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) and how to advocate for yourself during pregnancy and postpartum.
• Practical steps Emi took to manage her health while recovering from PPCM and caring for a newborn.
• Advice on navigating infertility treatments, including IUIs, from Emi’s personal experience
• How Emi balanced breastfeeding with medical restrictions and what she did to ensure her and her baby's health
• Emi’s perspective on building a strong support network and why it's essential for new mothers facing health challenges

Learn more about Emi here: https://www.doyouwantthetruthpod.com/our-guests/emi

Connect with Emi:

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/eminaegle

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emi.naegle/

Support the show

Website: https://www.doyouwantthetruthpod.com

Connect with Sam:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/samanthastrom

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@samanthastorms

Connect with Zara:

Zara Hanawalt https://www.linkedin.com/in/zara-hanawalt/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@zarahanawalt

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zarahanawalt/

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In this episode, Paige, Sam, and special guest Kelly Hubbell explore the challenges and joys of managing a modern household while balancing work, family, and personal identity. Kelly, founder of Sage House, shares her journey from corporate CPA to motherhood and entrepreneurship, detailing how she redefined her home life by implementing systems and seeking help.

Together, they discuss practical strategies for managing the mental load of parenting, building a supportive "village," and finding unexpected joy in motherhood. Topics include outsourcing without guilt, balancing gender inequities in household responsibilities, and how creating space for yourself can transform your relationships and overall happiness.
Whether you’re a working parent, stay-at-home mom, or an aspiring entrepreneur, this conversation offers actionable advice for reclaiming your time and emotional bandwidth.

Highlights:

[01:00] The candlelight method for making mealtimes peaceful.
[09:00] Scaling your home like a startup: creating repeatable systems.
[13:00] Addressing the privilege and challenges of outsourcing household help.
[22:00] Turning invisible labor into visible conversations with your partner.
[31:00] How reclaiming time and space impacts parenting and personal relationships.
[46:00] The unexpected joys of watching your children form relationships.
Takeaways:

"You don’t have to do it alone. Building a village isn’t just about help—it’s about creating space for joy and connection."
Prioritize communication in your household. Make the invisible visible to balance responsibilities effectively.
Be explicit about your needs and expectations with both partners and support systems.

Connect with Kelly Hubbell:
https://www.mysagehaus.com/meet-kelly 
Instagram @mysagehaus TikTok @mysagehaus

Keywords: Parenting podcast, Managing mental load, Motherhood advice, Parenting hacks, Household organization tips, Working mom strategies, Balancing family and career, Outsourcing for parents, Mental health for moms, Gender roles in parenting, mental load, Gender equality, fair play

Support the show

Website: https://www.doyouwantthetruthpod.com

Connect with Sam:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/samanthastrom

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@samanthastorms

Connect with Zara:

Zara Hanawalt https://www.linkedin.com/in/zara-hanawalt/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@zarahanawalt

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zarahanawalt/

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In this captivating episode, we sit down with Bret Shuford, renowned for his performances in Broadway hits such as Wicked, The Little Mermaid, and The Lion King. Bret shares his personal journey to parenthood through surrogacy alongside his husband, offering a heartfelt glimpse into the challenges and triumphs they've encountered.

Delving into his illustrious career, Bret discusses the delicate balance between the demanding schedule of a Broadway performer and the joys of family life. He reflects on his experiences breaking barriers as an openly gay actor in the theater industry and emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and representation on stage.

Keywords: Bret Shuford, Broadway, Wicked, The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, surrogacy, gay parenting, theater career, inclusivity, representation, performing arts, family life, authentic storytelling.

Learn more about Bret on our website
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/broadwayhusbands/
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@broadwayhusbands

Support the show

Website: https://www.doyouwantthetruthpod.com

Connect with Sam:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/samanthastrom

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@samanthastorms

Connect with Zara:

Zara Hanawalt https://www.linkedin.com/in/zara-hanawalt/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@zarahanawalt

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zarahanawalt/

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In this must-listen episode, we sit down with Michelle, a mom whose journey to parenthood is nothing short of extraordinary. From battling unexpected fertility challenges, including the discovery of a tumor, to navigating a high-risk pregnancy during the pandemic, Michelle's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of community. 🌟

Michelle opens up about her journey from the early days of trying to conceive, discovering a tumor on her ovary, and facing the scary reality of an uncertain pregnancy. She shares candidly about her emotional rollercoaster, from the fear of losing her baby to the unexpected joy of becoming closer with her family and mom friends during isolation.

Whether you’re a mom, trying to conceive, or just looking for an inspiring story of hope and resilience, this episode will touch your heart and remind you that you are not alone on this journey. Michelle also shares the number one piece of advice she wishes she’d known as a new mom, making this episode a must for anyone navigating the ups and downs of parenthood. 👶🍼

Why You Should Listen: This episode is packed with real-life insights, heartfelt moments, and powerful advice that every parent, or parent-to-be, can relate to. Whether you’re struggling with fertility issues, going through a difficult pregnancy, or just need a reminder that you’re doing an amazing job, Michelle’s story will inspire you. 🎙️✨

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Michelle’s unexpected fertility journey: discovering a tumor and facing fears of infertility.
How Michelle navigated a high-risk pregnancy during the pandemic and what it taught her.
The impact of COVID-19 on Michelle’s pregnancy and how it changed her perspective on parenting.
The importance of building a supportive mom community and how mom friends can become your lifeline.
Michelle’s heartfelt advice for new parents and how to navigate the emotional challenges of early parenthood.


Keywords: Fertility struggles, high-risk pregnancy, parenting during the pandemic, motherhood advice, mom community, mom friends, fertility journey, new parent tips, resilience in motherhood, overcoming infertility, Cervical Cerclage

Support the show

Website: https://www.doyouwantthetruthpod.com

Connect with Sam:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/samanthastrom

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@samanthastorms

Connect with Zara:

Zara Hanawalt https://www.linkedin.com/in/zara-hanawalt/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@zarahanawalt

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zarahanawalt/

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In this candid and powerful episode, we sit down with Josh Fisher (@jfisher62 and @marriageishappening) to explore the raw realities of marriage, parenthood, and the unexpected challenges that come with trying to build an equitable partnership. Josh opens up about his journey with his wife Jamie—known to many as @LotsOfJamie on TikTok—and the hard truths they discovered about inequality in their relationship.

From navigating the patriarchal norms embedded in marriage to confronting the real cost of prioritizing work over family, Josh shares his personal awakening and how it reshaped his approach to being a husband and father.

Connect with Josh:

https://www.instagram.com/marriageishappening/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JaimeandJosh


Highlights from this Episode:

💔 The Moment It All Fell Apart: Josh talks about the shocking conversation that changed everything and how hearing, "If we got divorced, I'd be relieved," became the wake-up call he never expected.
👶 The Unexpected Joys of Parenthood: Josh reflects on the chaotic early years of becoming parents during a recession, a cross-country move, and living in a basement. Find out why, despite the struggles, he’d do it all over again.
💡 From Lip Service to Real Change: Discover how Josh transformed from a "Type A perfectionist" who wanted to "fix it all" to a partner who shows up in the messy middle of life, embracing vulnerability and imperfect action.
🛑 Why Men Struggle with Equality in Relationships: Josh dives into the societal norms that kept him blind to inequality and why many men are stuck in outdated roles without even realizing it.
📝 Advice for New Dads and Husbands: Josh shares the one piece of advice he’d give to any father or husband trying to navigate the complexities of modern relationships.

Why You Should Listen:

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the expectations of marriage and parenthood, or questioned how to create a more equitable partnership, this episode is for you. Josh’s story is a raw and honest look at the struggles we all face behind closed doors, and the small shifts that can lead to big changes. Whether you’re a parent, partner, or just curious about what it takes to make a relationship work in today’s world, you won’t want to miss this conversation.

Tune in now for a refreshing take on marriage and parenthood that you didn’t know you needed.

Keywords
inequity, patriarchy, marriage, parenting, community, communication, accountability, empathy, shared responsibilities

Support the show

Website: https://www.doyouwantthetruthpod.com

Connect with Sam:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/samanthastrom

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@samanthastorms

Connect with Zara:

Zara Hanawalt https://www.linkedin.com/in/zara-hanawalt/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@zarahanawalt

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zarahanawalt/

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In this episode, we sit down with Jamie Fisher (@lotsofjamie) and dive deep into the unfiltered realities of marriage, motherhood, and mental health. Jamie and her partner, Josh (@jfisher), have built a following on TikTok by sharing the raw, honest moments of their relationship, from the challenges of co-parenting to navigating the complexities of their own partnership. Together, they open up about their journey through the messy middle of parenting, marriage, and everything in between.
 
Why You Should Listen:
If you’re a parent struggling to find balance in your marriage or feeling overwhelmed by the demands of motherhood, this episode will resonate deeply. Jamie and Josh’s unfiltered conversation is a refreshing reminder that you’re not alone, and that it’s okay to embrace the imperfections of parenting and partnership.

What We Discuss:

• The Unexpected Joy of Motherhood: Jamie’s journey from vowing “never again” after a traumatic first birth to embracing the chaos and joy of raising four kids with Josh.
• Marriage in the Trenches: Jamie and Josh share how they manage the ups and downs of their relationship, including the challenges of working together while raising a family.
• Postpartum Struggles and Mental Health: Jamie’s candid account of her battle with severe postpartum depression and anxiety, and how it impacted their family dynamics.
• Setting Boundaries in Marriage and Parenting: How establishing boundaries helped Jamie regain control of her life and improved their relationship.
• The Taboo of Mom Rage: Jamie discusses the often-hidden feelings of anger and frustration in motherhood, and why it’s important to bring these emotions into the light.

 Key Takeaways:

• Real Talk on Parenting and Partnership: Jamie and Josh’s openness reveals the realities of maintaining a marriage while navigating parenthood.
• Mental Health Matters: Jamie’s journey underscores the importance of acknowledging and addressing mental health challenges in motherhood.
• Surviving Parenthood Without a Village: Insight into how Jamie and Josh are managing without the traditional support systems that many parents rely on.

Connect with Jaime:
Youtube @jaimeandjosh
TikTok @lotsofjaime

keywords
Motherhood, Parenting, Marriage, Postpartum Depression, Mental Health in Motherhood, Jamie Fisher, Josh Fisher, Real Talk on Marriage, Parenting Challenges, Raising Kids, Marriage Advice, Parenting without a Village, Mom Rage, Boundaries in Motherhood, Couple Goals, TikTok Parenting.

Support the show

Website: https://www.doyouwantthetruthpod.com

Connect with Sam:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/samanthastrom

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@samanthastorms

Connect with Zara:

Zara Hanawalt https://www.linkedin.com/in/zara-hanawalt/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@zarahanawalt

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zarahanawalt/

Send us a text

Check out this episode where Melissa dives into the ups and downs of being a dual income household, raising three kids with different age gaps! She shares what it's like juggling motherhood and a career, plus her unique experience of parenting while living abroad. From navigating cultural differences to handling severe food allergies, Melissa's journey is full of relatable moments and insights.

Highlights:

How having kids with age gaps brings both challenges and unexpected perks.
Balancing work and motherhood—finding what works for you.
Life as an expat parent: The adventure, the culture shock, and everything in between.
Different cultures' attitudes toward children and how that shapes parenting.
The tricky reality of raising a child with severe food allergies.
The joy of seeing the world through your child's curious eyes.
If you're a parent or curious about raising kids in diverse settings, you won't want to miss this episode!

Keywords: parenting, age gaps, career, expat life, cultural differences, independence, food allergies, adapting, joy.

Support the show

Website: https://www.doyouwantthetruthpod.com

Connect with Sam:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/samanthastrom

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@samanthastorms

Connect with Zara:

Zara Hanawalt https://www.linkedin.com/in/zara-hanawalt/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@zarahanawalt

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zarahanawalt/

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In this episode, Brittany Ouyang shares her story of parenting a toddler while navigating the mental load of a dual-income household. As a brand marketing manager at Cruise and former ballet dancer, Brittany reflects on the coordination, effort, and unexpected joys of raising a family while balancing career ambitions. Her relatable insights and practical advice will resonate with parents and professionals alike.

Keywords: parenting, dual-income household, working moms, mental load, toddler life, brand marketing, Mill Valley moms, ballet, self-care for moms, motherhood challenges, ballet, dance, bay area parenting, parenthood

Learn more about Brittany on our website
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brouyang/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/brouyang/

Support the show

Website: https://www.doyouwantthetruthpod.com

Connect with Sam:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/samanthastrom

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@samanthastorms

Connect with Zara:

Zara Hanawalt https://www.linkedin.com/in/zara-hanawalt/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@zarahanawalt

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zarahanawalt/