Poised & Powerful Parenting, hosted by Sarah Mayhan, supports new parents in the physical and mental transformation of new parenthood. A teacher of alignment, movement, and the mind-body connection, she believes everyone deserves the empowerment that comes from understanding themselves and how their body works. Tune in every other week to hear episodes that will help you be mindful in the present & open to the future. Learn more about Sarah and Poised Powerful Parenting at https://poisedpowerfulparenthood.com/interviews
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Touched Out and the Impact of Motherhood on Autonomy with Amanda Montei
Episode 48
Monday, September 25, 2023 • Duration 53:38
CW: brief mention of sexual assault.
Have you ever felt the kind of overwhelmed, overstimulated, or triggered that we might call being “all touched out”? Maybe you’ve even felt guilty about not being available to your kids or spouse, or surprised by the intensity of your feelings.
If you ever wondered why your body doesn’t feel like your own, if you are grappling with how to parent in a post-Roe, post #MeToo world, you might be realizing how much bigger this is than just you. Amanda Montei is here to talk about the histories we carry in - our culture and in our bodies - themes she discusses in her new book: Touched Out: Motherhood, Misogyny, Consent and Control. This week, episode 48 of Poised & Powerful Podcast is about why we might feel touched out and how we can understand women’s bodily autonomy.
Amanda Montei is the author of TOUCHED OUT: MOTHERHOOD, MISOGYNY, CONSENT, AND CONTROL, (now out in September 2023), the memoir Two Memoirs (Jaded Ibis Press), and a collection of prose, The Failure Age (Bloof Books), as well as co-author of Dinner Poems (Bon Aire Projects). She has an MFA from California Institute of the Arts and a PhD from the Poetics Program at SUNY Buffalo. Her writing and criticism explores literary and cultural representations of gender, work, care, sexuality, feminism, creativity, and the body.
In this episode of Poised & Powerful Podcast, Amanda and I discuss the following:
The heavy gender norms and unrealistic expectations imposed on mothers.
New parenthood forces us to confront cultural beliefs and unprocessed memories, which can lead to feelings of isolation and overwhelm - but this is also an opportunity for change.
The importance of acknowledging and addressing the power dynamics in sexual and romantic relationships, particularly in the context of postpartum and parenthood.
How our larger social and political context affects us as we cope with the day-to-day of parenting.
Mindfulness Together: Easing Transitions for Yourself and Your Child with The Ready List
Episode 47
Monday, June 26, 2023 • Duration 22:22
Have you ever yelled “CALM DOWN”? How effective was it? Today, I’m teaching a simple four-step process: for more ease and less yelling. It works by rebooting your nervous system - and children can learn it too!
This week, episode 47 of Poised & Powerful Podcast is sharing mindfulness together: easing transitions for yourself and your child with The Ready List!
In this episode of Poised & Powerful Podcast, I discuss the following:
The importance of self-regulation for adults and children alike.
The Ready List as a tool for co-regulating with your child and helping them develop their own self-regulation.
A variety of practical ways to use The Ready List during hectic days.
Using your imagination to help your kids learn - and where kids have an edge over adults in knowledge of their bodies.
Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to follow, rate and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!
How often do you think about your bones? Bones are your structure. Using visualization around our bones and skeletons can change our experience of being in our bodies. This week, in episode 43 of the Poised & Powerful Podcast, I’m sharing a guided skeleton standing alignment visualization! With this practice we can use a lot less muscular tension by using this guided practice.
Do you find yourself needing extra time to recover from your weekend or time to prepare your mind and body for the week ahead? Join me for a restorative practice where we’ll release tension in our necks, back, and shoulders. Clear your mind so you’ll feel reset and re-energized for yourself and your family. Drop into the online Sunday Scaries Support group class: https://poisedpowerfulparenthood.com/take-a-break
Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!
Holistic Healing after Pregnancy Loss with Dr. Anietie “Tia” Ukpe-Wallace {REPLAY}
Episode 42
Monday, October 3, 2022 • Duration 01:04:34
Content Warning: pregnancy loss and miscarriage are mentioned throughout this episode. Find mental health support for pregnancy loss at Postpartum Support International.
Pregnancy loss isn’t talked about enough, but it’s just as important to hear those stories as it is to hear birth stories. Many women struggle with their pregnancy loss alone and in secret. If we can all have a better understanding of what to expect and how to find support for ourselves or support those around us, we will all be better for it. Episode 42 of Poised & Powerful Podcast is sharing the holistic healing that is important after pregnancy loss!
Dr. Anietie Ukpe-Wallace, PT, DPT, also known as Tia, is an orthopedic and pelvic health physical therapist who specializes in providing a continuum of care and support from pregnancy loss to postpartum all while emphasizing the importance of self-care. Tia has had a life-long fascination with the human body and its inner workings which ultimately led her to path that she is on today. Beginning with a formal introduction to movement in college, she has continued that journey ever since.
In addition, she is a Women’s Health Coach through the Integrative Women's Health Institute, host of her podcast, The Masterful Art of Self-Care, and an amateur pole and Lyra artist. She is a wife, mother to her 6-year-old daughter, and a cat mom.
In this episode of Poised & Powerful Podcast, my guest(s) and I discuss the following:
Navigating pregnancy loss and the grief that happens with that.
Being Your Child’s First Teacher with Amanda Blair MacDonald
Episode 41
Monday, September 19, 2022 • Duration 01:13:04
Being responsible for your children’s education can feel high pressure - from fostering brain development to choosing schools. Today’s guest will help you zoom out from the details to help you focus on what’s important to you as you incorporate learning in your home. Children’s learning is a whole-self activity, and you might be surprised at the simplicity of the things you can do together that help them grow and develop! This week, episode 41 of Poised & Powerful Podcast reassures you that you have what you need to be your child’s first teacher!
Feeding and caring for young children can do a number on your body - and it can be hard to find that time to take care of yourself. Join me for a restorative practice where we’ll release tension in our necks, back, and shoulders. Clear your mind so you’ll feel reset and re-energized for yourself and your family. Drop into the online Sunday night group: Restore on the Floor for parents and caregivers. https://poisedpowerfulparenthood.com/take-a-break Or sign up here to be the first to know about new classes and offers.
Amanda Blair MacDonald (she/her) is an educator, speaker, and consultant based in Chicago, IL. Amanda uses decision-making analysis (MPA), Alexander Technique, and developmental movement to help you gain self-mastery and optimal performance.
In this episode of Poised & Powerful Podcast, Amanda and I discuss the following:
How developmental movement, play, and daily activities can help children learn - no elaborate materials needed!
How Amanda’s perspective as an Alexander Technique trained teacher meshed with the Montessori philosophy when she was hired at a Montessori school. She gives an educator’s insight on scaffolding children’s learning so they can master skills with confidence, and the emotional and kinesthetic skills that are vital for their development.
Amanda compares the independence of her daughter's education with her own schools, which were more authoritarian and grades-focused.
Alexander Technique and Motherhood on the Woven Podcast with Evelyn Correa
Episode 40
Monday, September 5, 2022 • Duration 35:21
In parenthood, we realize so much is out of our control - how do we cope when things don’t go as planned? I recently had the honor of being a guest on the Woven podcast talking about my journey using the Alexander Technique as a practice during early parenthood to deal with physical and emotional stresses. This week, episode 40 of Poised & Powerful Podcast is a replay of my conversation with Evelyn Correa on her podcast, Woven!
Feeding and caring for young children can do a number on your body - and it can be hard to find that time to take care of yourself. Join me for a restorative practice where we’ll release tension in our necks, back, and shoulders. Clear your mind so you’ll feel reset and re-energized for yourself and your family. Drop into the online Sunday night group: Restore on the Floor for parents and caregivers. https://poisedpowerfulparenthood.com/take-a-break Or sign up here to be the first to know about new classes and offers.
In this episode of Poised & Powerful Podcast, Evelyn and I discuss the following:
Using Alexander Technique in stressful parenting situations
Approaching parenthood from a skills-based perspective rather than a knowledge-based perspective
The reality of being a new mom and the unique struggles each of us go through, from the daily routines to the pressures we put on ourselves as moms.
How we respond physiologically to stress and how we can apply Alexander Technique skills in the moment to make life easier.
Remember these - Am I seeing? Am I breathing? Am I balancing?
Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to follow, rate and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!
Learn more about Poised & Powerful and Sarah at
Minisode: Preventing Common Wrist Conditions Postpartum
Friday, September 2, 2022 • Duration 16:51
I bet your hands are very busy! So busy it might lead to some common conditions of postpartum or new parenting. This week, I have a bonus episode of the Poised & Powerful Podcast, and I’m sharing common conditions affecting the wrist and how to cope with and prevent them in doing your everyday activities!
Some of these conditions include wrist pain, carpal tunnel and “Mommy Thumb”.
Remember to tune into yourself: Pause, Exhale, Lighten Up.
Feeding and caring for young children can do a number on your body - and it can be hard to find that time to take care of yourself. Join me for a restorative practice where we’ll release tension in our necks, back, and shoulders. Clear your mind so you’ll feel reset and re-energized for yourself and your family. Drop into the online Sunday night group: Restore on the Floor for parents and caregivers. https://poisedpowerfulparenthood.com/take-a-break Or sign up here to be the first to know about new classes and offers.
Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to follow, rate and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!
A Journey of Extended Breastfeeding with Shanti Geiser
Episode 39
Monday, August 22, 2022 • Duration 42:39
So often, in early parenthood, we talk about putting the baby first. Today’s guest has a fresh approach to her journey in breastfeeding that we can all learn from. This week, episode 39 of Poised & Powerful Podcast is sharing the story of two different breastfeeding journeys!
Feeding and caring for young children can do a number on your body - and it can be hard to find that time to take care of yourself. Join me for a restorative practice where we’ll release tension in our necks, back, and shoulders. Clear your mind so you’ll feel reset and re-energized for yourself and your family. Drop into the online Sunday night group: Restore on the Floor for parents and caregivers. https://poisedpowerfulparenthood.com/take-a-break Or sign up here to be the first to know about new classes and offers.
Shanti Geiser grew up in Florida and moved to Washington State in December 2019, just months before the pandemic started. As a mom of two kids, also juggling schooling for a master's in HR, it has been an intense journey. Despite the ups and downs, breastfeeding has been an area of her life that feels like a reprieve. It has been a bonding and meditative experience where she can release worries and struggles and just be present in the moment with her children. She uses breastfeeding as a time to recharge, learn about things that interest her, and connect with her kids. It has also been empowering.
In this episode of Poised & Powerful Podcast, Shanti Geiser and I discuss the following:
Having a pre-pandemic baby vs. a pandemic baby and what those experiences were like.
The ups and downs of hospital birth vs. home birth (in two different states), NICU stays, weaning, and extended breastfeeding.
What it’s like when you truly have a supportive birth and pediatric support when you need that.
Ultimately do what works best for you first, as a mom and as a breastfeeding parent, and taking time to take care of yourself.
Comparison Traps in New Motherhood Around Breastfeeding and Pumping with Allison Tolman, LPN
Episode 38
Monday, August 8, 2022 • Duration 55:46
“How do I know if my baby is getting enough to eat?” is a common worry for new and even seasoned moms. Especially if you’re new to breastfeeding, you might be feeling unsure. Now, there are data-tracking apps and pumps that can help you keep exact measurements and monitor feeding schedules for your infant. But are these helpful or stressful? Are we stuck in a comparison trap unlike any other? This week, episode 38 of Poised & Powerful Podcast is sharing the importance of trusting the breastfeeding process!
Feeding and caring for young children can do a number on your body - and it can be hard to find that time to take care of yourself. Join me for a restorative practice where we’ll release tension in our necks, back, and shoulders. Clear your mind so you’ll feel reset and re-energized for yourself and your family. Drop into the online Sunday night group: Restore on the Floor for parents and caregivers. https://poisedpowerfulparenthood.com/take-a-break Or sign up here to be the first to know about new classes and offers.
Allison Tolman is an IBCLC, Childbirth educator, nurse and doula, passionate about helping working moms find calmness and confidence in pumping and breastfeeding while out in the workforce.
In this episode of Poised & Powerful Podcast, Allison Tolman and I discuss the following:
The training lactation consultants receive and what they do, and why you really want someone who understands your unique circumstances and breastfeeding goals.
Allison’s three different breastfeeding journeys, both in the US and as a military spouse overseas, and how her lack of pumping support led to her business.
Anxiety about whether or not your baby is getting enough to eat, and other common situations where lactation consultants can provide help and reassurance.
The inside scoop on picking a breast pump. The number of choices and tracking apps can be overwhelming - what do you really need to get started feeding or pumping?
Unplanned Parenthood with Michelle Hartney
Episode 37
Monday, July 25, 2022 • Duration 22:44
Listener Warning: This episode discusses topics like sexual assault and abusive relationships as well as suicide and depression.
Unplanned Parenthood: Letters to an Army of Millions is an installation about the history of birth control in America that addresses Planned Parenthood founder Margaret Sanger’s racism. It is a mixed media installation centered on the stories of these people who longed for reproductive justice—and reminding us of the urgency of retaining our control over our destinies. This week, episode 37 of Poised & Powerful Podcast is sharing about unplanned parenthood!
Do you find yourself needing extra time to recover from your weekend or time to prepare your mind and body for the week ahead? Join me for a restorative practice where we’ll release tension in our necks, backs, and shoulders. Clear your mind so you’ll feel reset and re-energized for yourself and your family. Drop into the online Sunday Scaries Support group class: https://poisedpowerfulparenthood.com/take-a-break
Michelle Hartney is an incredible artist who specializes in multiple mediums to create and advocate for women’s rights, maternal healthcare issues, and discrimination in art institutions through installations, community and guerilla performances, and online works. She founded the Women’s Health Collective, an organization dedicated to utilizing creative approaches to raise awareness of women’s health issues through collaborative projects.
In this episode of Poised & Powerful Podcast, artist Michelle Hartney, museum manager Juli Lowe and I discuss the following:
The story behind Motherhood in Bondage and how that’s being used to create the Unplanned Parenthood mixed media project.
Why it’s important to have conversations about heroizing Margaret Sanger when her legacy included things like eugenics and white supremacy.
How the stories of these people can be felt through the words and the importance of letting their voices be heard.
With everything going on in the country right now, these conversations are more important than ever.
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Stay updated on tips for stress relief by signing up for my newsletter. Find more tips, tricks, and strategies at the resources page on my website. Or you can book a 1:1 customized session to receive the support you need to feel more agency over your body.
Collaborative problem-solving with kids, and how that develops as they get older.
We hear from Amanda’s daughter about what she values in her education - you can hear her sense of ownership of her learning experience at a young age.
We hope this conversation gives you the valuable perspective of the “big picture” of supporting children’s learning, and has you thinking about what you value in education, and gets you excited about sharing that with your family.
It’s really common to need practical and emotional support around feeding your baby, and if you have questions, lactation specialists are here to help! As you learn to trust the process, and you see your baby grow, hopefully you will be able to feel more relaxed about it.
Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to follow, rate and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!
Learn more about Poised & Powerful and Sarah at https://poisedpowerfulparenthood.com/interviews
Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to follow, rate and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!
