This podcast episode is sponsored by Lovelace Health Systems. We at ABQ Mom choose to work with businesses and organizations that will benefit our listeners and readers.

When you think of February, you might picture candy hearts, decadent chocolates, and bouquets of roses. But did you know this month is also American Heart Month? In this special heart health episode of New Mexico Momcast—sponsored by Lovelace Health Systems—we explore why heart disease is a serious threat, especially for women, and how early detection can be a lifesaver.

Join us as we chat with an expert, Kate Muller, from Heart Hospital of New Mexico at Lovelace Medical Center about their fast, easy, and affordable $150 heart screening. Learn practical tips on keeping your heart healthy and why a simple scan could be the most important call you make this February.

Show your heart some love and tune in to empower your health journey. And remember, to schedule your heart scan, call 505.835.1615 today!

Recommended Resources

• Guide to Heart Health in Albuquerque
• Round-Up of Heart Healthy Recipes
• ABQ Moms Guide to Fitness Health & Wellness

Connect with ABQ Mom In Person

It’s no secret that this motherhood journey is unique, and having people to turn to, talk to, and share experiences with can make all the difference in the world. If you’re new to the area, new to being a mom, or just want a way to connect with others close to where you live, join one of ABQ Mom’s groups.

The ABQ Mom Club is an online (private) Facebook group that allows moms to connect, ask questions (mommy or non-mommy related), discuss local happenings, and attend events like playdates and meet-ups.

We also have a very active book club and a fitness group.

For moms not on Facebook, there’s an email list to keep them up-to-date on all the event dates and locations.

Connect with NM Momcast on Social Media

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Facebook

In this special episode, Becca sits down with Anastasia Fajardo—a pregnant mom and a seasoned labor and delivery nurse—to explore the wild, wonderful, and sometimes downright weird world of pregnancy and childbirth.

No topic is off-limits as we laugh, learn, and share real-talk insights about navigating pregnancy while juggling the unique perspective of being a healthcare professional. From bizarre cravings and belly laughs to behind-the-scenes delivery room stories, this fun and conversational episode will leave you feeling informed, entertained, and seen.

Whether you’re expecting, a seasoned mom, or just curious about the journey, this episode promises a mix of candid advice and plenty of laughs. Join us for an unforgettable chat that celebrates the joys and challenges of motherhood in true New Mexico style!

🎧 Tune in, share a laugh, and let's keep it real!

Recommended Resources

• Is "No Pain" the Perfect Birth Plan?
• Best Pain Management Tips From a Labor & Delivery Nurse
• Too Old? My Decision to Extend Breastfeeding
• Albuquerque Moving Guide: Los Lunas

Follow Anastasia on socials:

@anastasia.fajardo

From the Episode

Ina May's Guide to Childbirth
Europa Food Farm Festival


Connect with ABQ Mom In Person

It’s no secret that this motherhood journey is unique, and having people to turn to, talk to, and share experiences with can make all the difference in the world. If you’re new to the area, new to being a mom, or just want a way to connect with others close to where you live, join one of ABQ Mom’s groups.

The ABQ Mom Club is an online (private) Facebook group that allows moms to connect, ask questions (mommy or non-mommy related), discuss local happenings, and attend events like playdates and meet-ups.

We also have a very active book club and a fitness group.

For moms not on Facebook, there’s an email list to keep them up-to-date on all the event dates and locations.

Connect with NM Momcast on Social Media

Instagram
Facebook

We're kicking off the first episode of the year with you. Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s all too familiar this time of year—New Year’s resolutions. But here’s the twist: we’re asking, ‘New Year, Why a New Me?’

For so many of us, January brings a flood of pressure to transform—be thinner, be more organized, and be everything to everyone. But today, we’re flipping the script. What if you didn’t need a ‘new you’? What if the real magic is in appreciating who you already are while setting goals that *actually* align with your life as a busy mom?

We’ll talk about ditching the guilt, creating realistic intentions, and why self-compassion might just be the best resolution of all. So grab your coffee or throw in those earbuds while you fold the never-ending pile of laundry, and let’s jump in!"

Recommended Resources

• Start the New Year Organized: Tips & Steps for a Fresh Beginning
• 4 Ways to Reset at the Begining of the Year
• Start the New Year by Committing to Yourself

Recommendations from Episode

• Only Murderers
• Bad Sisters
• The Lazy Genius

Connect with ABQ Mom In Person

It’s no secret that this motherhood journey is unique, and having people to turn to, talk to, and share experiences with can make all the difference in the world. If you’re new to the area, new to being a mom, or just want a way to connect with others close to where you live, join one of ABQ Mom’s groups.

The ABQ Mom Club is an online (private) Facebook group that allows moms to connect, ask questions (mommy or non-mommy related), discuss local happenings, and attend events like playdates and meet-ups.

We also have a very active book club

For moms not on Facebook, there’s an email list to keep them up-to-date on all the event dates and locations.

Connect with NM Momcast on Social Media

Instagram
Facebook

In this episode, we had the pleasure of chatting with Rachael Reardon, the coordinator of the ABQ Mom Club, a vibrant community for mothers in Albuquerque. Rachel, a mom to three children under the age of three, brings a wealth of personal experience and a refreshing perspective on the challenges and joys of parenting small children.

Rachael shared her unique insights into the world of motherhood, offering tips on navigating the ups and downs of raising little ones while balancing personal and family life. As a mother in the trenches, she knows the value of support and community, which is exactly what ABQ Mom Club provides.

The ABQ Mom Club is more than just an online group—it’s a lifeline for moms in the Albuquerque area. Every mom in the city is already a member, with no sign-ups or fees required. Membership simply comes with the territory of being a mom in Albuquerque. The club’s private Facebook group offers a space for moms to connect, ask questions (whether about parenting or just everyday life), and share resources. Plus, it’s a great place to stay in the loop about local events, playdates, and meet-ups.

For those who aren’t on Facebook, Rachael ensures no one is left out by offering an email list to keep all members informed about upcoming activities and opportunities to connect with other local moms.

In a world where motherhood can sometimes feel isolating, Rachael’s work with the ABQ Mom Club is a reminder that no mom has to navigate the journey alone. Whether you’re seeking advice, looking for a playdate, or just need a supportive space to vent, ABQ Mom Club has you covered.

Listen in to the full podcast for more from Rachael about the Club’s vision and the importance of building a supportive, inclusive community for moms in Albuquerque.

Recommended Resources

• Meet Local Moms
• You CAN Sit With Us: Making Friends as a Mom
• 2024 Galentine’s Mom’s Night Out
• Making Adult Friends Is Hard
• An Open Letter to My Non-Mom Friends, I’m Sorry
• Making New Friends the Old-Fashioned Way

Follow Rachael on socials:

@readwithrachaelofficial

Connect with ABQ Mom In Person

It’s no secret that this motherhood journey is unique, and having people to turn to, talk to, and share experiences with can make all the difference in the world. If you’re new to the area, new to being a mom, or just want a way to connect with others close to where you live, join one of ABQ Mom’s groups.

The ABQ Mom Club is an online (private) Facebook group that allows moms to connect, ask questions (mommy or non-mommy related), discuss local happenings, and attend events like playdates and meet-ups.

We also have a very active book club and a fitness group.

For moms not on Facebook, there’s an email list to keep them up-to-date on all the event dates and locations.

Connect with NM Momcast on Social Media

Instagram
Facebook

Looking to make the holidays less about stress and more about joy? The New Mexico Momcast is here to help. In this episode, we share tips for cutting down on holiday overwhelm and creating meaningful, memorable celebrations with your family. From planning manageable holiday activities to setting boundaries around gatherings, we cover practical ideas to help you truly enjoy the season. Join us for a conversation on shifting the focus from perfect plans to priceless memories!

Recommended Resources

• Thanksgiving Conversation Cards
• Thanksgiving Recipe Roundup
• 4 Simple Holiday Spending & Budgeting Tips
• Why I Don't Drag My Husband to Most Events

Connect with ABQ Mom In Person

It’s no secret that this motherhood journey is unique, and having people to turn to, talk to, and share experiences with can make all the difference in the world. If you’re new to the area, new to being a mom, or just want a way to connect with others close to where you live, join one of ABQ Mom’s groups.

The ABQ Mom Club is an online (private) Facebook group that allows moms to connect, ask questions (mommy or non-mommy related), discuss local happenings, and attend events like playdates and meet-ups.

We also have a very active book club and a fitness group.

For moms not on Facebook, there’s an email list to keep them up-to-date on all the event dates and locations.

Links from the Episode

The Bear "Fishes" Episode
Daddy's Home 2
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

Connect with NM Momcast on Social Media

Instagram
Facebook

November is Premature Birth Awareness Month, a time to shine a spotlight on the families who have experienced the challenges and triumphs that come with premature birth. In our latest episode of New Mexico Momcast, we sit down with Elizabeth Janiors, a resilient mother who shares her personal story of navigating the emotional, medical, and day-to-day realities of having a premature baby.

In this heartfelt interview, Elizabeth opens up about the unexpected journey she faced when her baby arrived ahead of schedule. From the early days, Elizabeth’s story is one of courage, adaptability, and hope. This conversation highlights not only her unique experience but also the broader realities that so many parents and caregivers face when dealing with premature birth.

Whether you’re a parent, a family member, or simply interested in learning more about this important topic, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice to help you support those families in this situation. Join us as we listen, learn, and honor the strength of families impacted by premature birth.

Resources for Families and Caregivers

For those seeking support, information, or connection, here are some resources dedicated to premature birth awareness and assistance:

• March of Dimes - Offers resources for parents with premature babies, including information on health, care, and family support programs.
• Graham’s Foundation - Provides support resources and care packages specifically for parents of preemies.

• Hand to Hold - A nonprofit organization that offers personalized support for NICU families. (handtohold.org)

• The Preemie Parent Alliance - A network of organizations providing support and education to preemie parents. (preemieparentalliance.org)

• My One Pound Miracle Baby
• My Pregnancy Over 40: What I Learned
• My Two Preemie Birth Stories + Tips for Supporting Parents

Connect with ABQ Mom In Person

It’s no secret that this motherhood journey is unique, and having people to turn to, talk to, and share experiences with can make all the difference in the world. If you’re new to the area, new to being a mom, or just want a way to connect with others close to where you live, join one of ABQ Mom’s groups.

ABQ Mom’s Community & Conversation Group is an online (private) Facebook group that allows moms to connect, ask questions (mommy or non-mommy related), discuss local happenings, and attend events like playdates and meet-ups.

We also have a very active book club and a fitness group.

In this episode of the New Mexico Momcast, Becca and Vanessa discuss the hidden challenges of overparenting, exploring how hovering and micro-managing can stifle a child’s natural resilience and independence. We’ll unpack the downsides of helicopter parenting, discuss the impact of excessive screen time, and examine the current mental health crisis affecting kids and teens. Our conversation will offer insights into how we, as parents, can encourage growth, autonomy, and grit in our children, ultimately helping them thrive in an increasingly complex world.


Recommended Resources

• New Stage of Motherhood: My Kids Don't Need Me Constantly
• Kids, Screen Time, & Internet Safety
• Kid Crack: Too Much Screen Time
• Knowing Where to Turn: Family Mental Health Care

Connect with ABQ Mom In Person

It’s no secret that this motherhood journey is unique, and having people to turn to, talk to, and share experiences with can make all the difference in the world. If you’re new to the area, new to being a mom, or just want a way to connect with others close to where you live, join one of ABQ Mom’s groups.

ABQ Mom’s Community & Conversation Group is an online (private) Facebook group that allows moms to connect, ask questions (mommy or non-mommy related), discuss local happenings, and attend events like playdates and meet-ups.

We also have a very active book club and a fitness group.

For moms not on Facebook, there’s an email list to keep them up-to-date on all the event dates and locations.

Links from the Episode

Bad Monkey
No Stupid Questions
Shrinking
ReConnected
Raising Parents
The Anxious Generation
Old Enough!

Connect with NM Momcast on Social Media

Instagram
Facebook

In this episode of New Mexico Momcast, we explore the growing disconnect between kids and the natural world with Sarah Candelaria, founder and executive director of Nature Niños. Sarah sheds light on the alarming trend of children spending less time outdoors and the profound effects this is having on their well-being. She shares the many benefits of reconnecting with nature, from boosting emotional resilience to strengthening family bonds. Join us as we dive into practical ways to help kids and families rediscover the joys of outdoor play and the lasting impact it can have on their lives.

Recommended Resources

• 3 Toddler-Friendly Hiking Trails
• 3 Hikes for Pregnant and Postpartum Mamas in Albuquerque
• A Guide for the East Mountain Newbie
• 5 Nature Scavenger Hunts You Can Do Today

Connect with ABQ Mom In Person

It’s no secret that this motherhood journey is unique, and having people to turn to, talk to, and share experiences with can make all the difference in the world. If you’re new to the area, new to being a mom, or just want a way to connect with others close to where you live, join one of ABQ Mom’s groups.

ABQ Mom’s Community & Conversation Group is an online (private) Facebook group that allows moms to connect, ask questions (mommy or non-mommy related), discuss local happenings, and attend events like playdates and meet-ups.

We also have a very active book club and a fitness group.

For moms not on Facebook, there’s an email list to keep them up-to-date on all the event dates and locations.

Links from the Episode

Nature Niños
Research Project
Nature Niños Wishlist
Fenton Lake
Liam Knight Pond

Connect with NM Momcast on Social Media

Instagram
Facebook