Welcome back to *Stethoscopes and Strollers*. In this episode, we dive into the realities of breastfeeding, dispelling common myths and discussing the pressures many moms, especially physician moms, face.

Episode Highlights:

- Debunking Common Myths: Addressing statements like "Breastfeeding helps you lose weight," "Breastfeeding protects you from postpartum depression," and "Breastfeeding comes naturally." While these might hold some truth, they often do a disservice by setting unrealistic expectations.

- Personal Experiences: I share my own breastfeeding journeys with my son and daughter, highlighting how each experience differed and the mental health challenges I faced.

- Supporting Moms' Choices: Emphasizing the importance of supporting moms in their feeding choices, whether it’s breastfeeding, formula feeding, or a combination. The goal is to reduce the pressure and guilt often associated with these decisions.

Key Messages:

- Breastfeeding Can Hurt: Despite the myth, breastfeeding can be painful even when done correctly. It’s essential to acknowledge this and provide proper support.

- Fed is Best: The pressure to breastfeed can negatively impact mental health. Prioritizing the mother’s well-being is crucial for both mom and baby.

- Cost of Breastfeeding: While often perceived as cheaper than formula feeding, breastfeeding comes with hidden costs, including time, supplies, and potential lost income.

Discussion Points:

- Impact on Mental Health: For many, the pressure to breastfeed can contribute to postpartum depression and anxiety. It’s important to recognize and address these mental health needs.

- Opportunity Costs: The financial and emotional investments in breastfeeding can be significant. Understanding and planning for these can help mitigate stress.

- The Complex Emotions: Breastfeeding can be both a cherished and traumatic part of motherhood. Acknowledging these complex emotions is vital for providing comprehensive support.

This episode aims to provide a balanced view of breastfeeding, highlighting both its challenges and joys. Whether you're a mom navigating your breastfeeding journey or a healthcare provider supporting lactating moms, understanding these realities can foster more compassionate and effective care.

Thank you for tuning in. See you next time on *Stethoscopes and Strollers* for more candid conversations about motherhood and medicine.

Remember to subscribe to "Stethoscopes and Strollers" on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode of encouragement and empowerment.

Apple Podcast | Spotify | YouTube

Connect with me.

Website | Instagram | Facebook

Join my Email list to get tips on navigating motherhood in the medical field.

If you feel you need direct support or someone to talk through the unique challenges of being a physician mom, schedule a free coaching session.

Free Coaching Session with Dr. Toya

Welcome back to *Stethoscopes and Strollers*. In this episode, I focus on the overarching goal of this podcast and my coaching for Physician Moms. I aim to inspire you to explore and connect deeply with your aspirations, regardless of how they differ from mine, and encourage you to keep an open mind throughout your personal and professional growth.

Episode Highlights:

- Understanding My Life Choices: Discussing my aspirations for a life filled with global experiences and why I choose to outsource daily tasks to focus on what truly matters.

- Purpose of Sharing My Story: While my lifestyle may seem unusual, the aim is not to have you mimic it but to inspire you to pursue your heart's desires with intention.

- Intentionality and Inner Desires: Every decision I make is aimed at realizing my dream life. It’s about connecting you to your inner desires, emphasizing the importance of living intentionally.

Key Messages:

- Open-mindedness and Exploration: I encourage keeping an open mind and considering new perspectives, no matter how different they may appear from your current lifestyle.

Final Thoughts:

This episode is not just about my journey but encouraging you to think intentionally about yours. Consider what you truly want from life. We can explore and discover those desires together.

If this episode inspires you, please share it with another physician mom. Your ratings and reviews help us reach more listeners and build a community of intentional, fulfilled physician moms.

See you next time on *Stethoscopes and Strollers* as we continue to explore living our lives with intention, hope, and joy.

Remember to subscribe to "Stethoscopes and Strollers" on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode of encouragement and empowerment.

Apple Podcast | Spotify | YouTube

Connect with me.

Website | Instagram | Facebook

Join my Email list to get tips on navigating motherhood in the medical field.

If you feel you need direct support or someone to talk through the unique challenges of being a physician mom, schedule a free coaching session.

Free Coaching Session with Dr. Toya

Hey doc, welcome to a bonus episode of *Stethoscopes and Strollers*. Today, we're tackling a common but seldom-discussed topic in motherhood—the notion that struggle is a necessary part of being a good mom. Let's debunk this myth together.

Episode Highlights:

- Debunking the Glory of Struggle: We discuss the "Struggle Olympics" mentality where some moms glorify the hardships of motherhood, claiming these challenges make them stronger or closer to their children.

- Choosing Easier Paths: I advocate for choosing options that make motherhood more manageable, such as hiring a night nanny, opting not to breastfeed if it's too stressful, or getting an au pair to ease daily pressures.

- Setting Boundaries: Learn how to set boundaries with people who make you feel guilty for trying to lessen your struggles. It’s okay to seek easier paths and still be a great mom.

Key Takeaways:

- You Don't Need to Struggle: Being a good mom doesn't require you to endure excessive hardships. Embracing support and making choices that prioritize your well-being are not only smart but necessary.

- Ignore the Naysayers: If someone criticizes your choices or implies that struggling is the only way to parent effectively, it’s time to set boundaries. Protect your mental health and focus on what works best for you and your family.

Motherhood shouldn’t be a competition of who can endure the most. It’s about finding joy and balance in a way that suits you. If you’re feeling pressured to participate in the "Struggle Olympics," remember, that opting out is not only an option but can be incredibly liberating.

If this episode resonates with you, please share it with another physician mom who might be feeling the pressure to struggle unnecessarily. Your support can help change the narrative and support more moms in finding their path to a fulfilling and manageable motherhood.

Thank you for tuning in to this bonus episode of *Stethoscopes and Strollers*. Don’t forget to rate and review us—it helps us reach more moms like you. See you next time for more empowering discussions!

Remember to subscribe to "Stethoscopes and Strollers" on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode of encouragement and empowerment.

Apple Podcast | Spotify | YouTube

Connect with me.

Website | Instagram | Facebook

Join my Email list to get tips on navigating motherhood in the medical field.

If you feel you need direct support or someone to talk through the unique challenges of being a physician mom, schedule a free coaching session.

Free Coaching Session with Dr. Toya