For our final episode of It Takes a Village season one, we’re taking a deep breath, looking back on everything we’ve shared, and laughing our way through what it really takes to keep the magic alive, especially during the holidays. From the sugar rush of Halloween to the cozy chaos of Christmas, we unpack the highs, the heaviness, and the heart of motherhood during a time when moms seem to hold the whole season together.

We talk about the traditions that bring our families joy, and what this past year of conversation and connection has meant to us. Plus, we hear from some of our incredible listeners; your stories, your moments, and your reminders that none of us are doing this alone.

Join us as we wrap up season one with gratitude, laughter, and maybe a little exhaustion left over from Halloween. Here’s to the village we’ve built, the magic we’ve made, and everything still to come. We'll see you in season 2!

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Louise Perry:

The Grove in Gunnison, CO - https://www.thegrovemotherwellness.com/

Mother Sage Motherhood Therapy - https://www.mothersagetherapyservices.com/

Kelsey Weaver:

Mountain Mamas Cafe - https://www.gunnisonvalleyhealth.org/our-services/obstetrics/family-birth-center/support-for-new-parents

Katie Thomas:

Project Hope - https://www.hope4gv.org/

Jessica Ekhardt:

Google Scholar Search: Jessica Eckhardt

• Integrating Sociological Perspectives into Obesogenic Research

In this episode of It Takes a Village, we sit down with Jessica Eckhardt, a researcher whose work explores the intersections of maternal health, rural healthcare systems, and shifting cultural trends around parenting and birth.

Jessica shares how she first became interested in women’s health and paints a candid picture of the changing landscape of maternal and infant care in rural communities. We dive into hospital closures, gaps in prenatal care, and the lingering impacts of historical misconceptions, like “female hysteria”, on modern medicine. Jessica also sheds light on why midwifery is often seen as a gold standard of care, and the promising grassroots and policy efforts working to bridge maternal health disparities.

The conversation then takes a thoughtful turn toward declining birth rates and the complex web of factors influencing family planning today, from climate change anxiety to economic pressures and shifting gender norms. Jessica unpacks global parenting trends, policy strategies, and cultural changes that shape how families are built and supported in today’s world.

This episode is an insightful look at where we are, how we got here, and what it will take to create a future where families and rural communities can truly thrive.

Resources Mentioned:

• Contact Your Local Colorado Officials
• Sora Midwifery Community - Home Birth & Midwife Services within 80 Miles of Salida, Colorado
• The Black Birth Collective
• Grand Junction Birth Collective
• Gunnison Mentors
• Brothers Helping Brothers
• Gunny Bike Bus
• Meal Train
• Gunnison Valley Humanity Posse
• Robert Putnam, Author

Read More From Jessica:

Google Scholar Search: Jessica Eckhardt

• Integrating Sociological Perspectives into Obesogenic Research
• Race, Environmental Inequality, and Physical Health

Episode 9 – Building a Village with Project Hope

In this episode of It Takes a Village, we sit down with Katie Thomas, Advocacy Director of Project Hope of Gunnison Valley. Together, we talk honestly about the realities of abuse and stalking, and the critical resources available right here in our valley for those affected. Katie shares the signs of abuse to look out for, how friends and loved ones can offer meaningful support, and what it really looks like to walk through the doors of Project Hope.

This conversation is all about breaking silence, building safety, and reminding our community that no one has to navigate abuse alone.

Resources Mentioned:

Project Hope: https://www.hope4gv.org/

Gunnison Valley Food Pantry:

Men's Group - Brothers Helping Brothers: https://gunnisoncountryfoodpantry.org/

Project Hope is at the Hikers' Center in Lake City once a month!

Gunnison Rec Center: https://www.gunnisonco.gov/departments/parks___recreation/index.php