Mean girl culture doesn’t necessarily end when we grow up. For many women, it just follows us into motherhood. As the kids head back to school, Emily sits down with clinical psychologist Dr. Noëlle Santorelli to unpack mean girl mom culture and the relational aggression that can show up in adult female friendships, mom groups, school communities, youth sports, and even group chats.

The episode explores why modern motherhood can feel so competitive, how social media and intensive mothering contribute to the pressure to perform, and why our need for belonging can sometimes bring out behaviors we don’t recognize in ourselves. Dr. Noëlle also shares practical ways to recognize patterns of relational aggression, decide when a friendship needs stronger boundaries, and protect your peace without automatically walking away from your community.

The episode discusses:

• What mean girl behavior can look like in motherhood
• How competition, scarcity, and belonging influence mom friendships
• The connection between social media and performative motherhood
• Signs that a mom group or friendship may be affecting your mental health
• Strategic distancing versus ending a friendship
• How to avoid contributing to toxic mom group dynamics

This episode is for every mom out there navigating her own sense of belonging while raising kids. Tune in, and don't forget to leave a 5-star rating and review wherever you listen!

🔗 Connect with Dr. Noëlle Santorelli:

Instagram: @drnoellesantorelli
TikTok: @drnoellesantorelli
Website: www.drnoellesantorelli.com

✨ Let’s keep the convo going:

Follow Emily on Instagram → @honestlyemilyrose
Follow the podcast on TikTok → @thesparkleprojectpod

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