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!

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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

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Facebook

Why do we like to villanize people who think and believe differently than us? This is something you might be wondering as we creep toward November 5th. In this thought-provoking episode of New Mexico Momcast, hosts Vanessa and Becca dive into intellectual hospitality— the art of showing compassion, understanding, and curiosity towards those with differing beliefs. In a world increasingly divided, particularly in the political realm, the duo explores why it's often easier to embrace hostility than empathy. They reflect on the challenges of teaching kindness in such a polarized climate as individuals and as mothers raising the next generation. Listen in for a candid discussion about navigating differences with grace, and cultivating a more compassionate world for our children.

Recommended Resources

• The Science of Kindness
• Fractured Relationships: 5 Ways Kindness Heals
• Why the Family Vacation is Overrated (and What You Can Do About It)
• I'm Not Everyone's Cup of Tea...and Neither Are You

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

NYT: Do You Live in a Political Bubble?
Reviving Intelectual Hospitality

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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.


In this special Breast Cancer Awareness Month episode of New Mexico Momcast, we sit down with Rosemary Rodriguez, PA-C from Lovelace Women’s Hospital, to discuss the critical topic of breast health. Rosemary shares expert advice on the importance of regular mammograms, what moms need to know about early detection, and tips for maintaining breast health. Whether you’re new to the topic or looking for a refresher, this episode is filled with practical information every mom should hear.

Don’t wait—take charge of your health today! Click here to schedule your mammogram and prioritize your well-being.

Recommended Resources

• Schedule your Mammogram
• Embrace Resources for Cancer Patients, Survivors, and their Families
• Breast Self Exam
• Katherine Lake Trail

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.

Connect with NM Momcast on Social Media

Instagram
Facebook

This podcast episode is sponsored by the Family Teacher Organization at Desert Willow Family School. We at ABQ Mom choose to work with businesses and organizations that will benefit our readers.



In this episode, we chat with Adrianne Elkins, principal of Coyote Willow Family School. She shares the distinctive attributes of both Desert Willow and Coyote Willow Family Schools located on the east and westside of Albuquerque respectively. The Family Schools offer a unique K-8 hybrid homeschool experience that blends the flexibility of homeschooling with the structure and resources of a traditional school. Adrianne shares how this innovative magnet school format fosters personalized learning, encourages strong family involvement, and nurtures both academic and social growth in students. Whether you're considering alternative education or exploring Albuquerque Public Schools' School Choice options, this episode provides valuable insights into how Coyote Willow and Desert Willow Family Schools are redefining education in New Mexico.



Recommended Resources

• Desert Willow Family School
• Coyote Willow Family School
• Guide to School Choice in Albuquerque
• Why Our Family Chose a Nontraditional School

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.

Recommendations from the Episode

4th of July Canyon
McCalls Pumpkin Patch
Explora


Connect with NM Momcast on Social Media

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• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
• Kassy's Kause
• Pregnancy and Postpartum Mental Health Resources
• What is Wrong with Me? A Silent Battle with Postpartum
• The Hidden Disorder: Postpartum Anxiety

Join us as we chat with Molly Lukes, a passionate occupational therapist and pelvic health specialist at Medusa Pelvic Health and Wellbeing. Molly shares her personal journey of discovering pelvic therapy during her own postpartum recovery and how it inspired her to support women in achieving optimal pelvic health and wellbeing. In this episode, we'll dive into topics such as postpartum rehab and recovery, prenatal birth prep, and addressing common pelvic issues like incontinence, pain, and prolapse. Molly will also share practical tips and resources for new moms, including how to create a postpartum support plan and avoid injury postpartum

Sign up for their newsletter at medusapelvicwellbeing.com to stay informed about upcoming classes on creating a postpartum support plan, a mothers support group, and how to get strong and avoid injury postpartum.

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.

Recommendations from the Episode

Pink Pony Ice Cream
Mother Faker
Light Eaters



Connect with NM Momcast on Social Media

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