One year ago, I pressed record for the first time and almost talked myself out of it.

I wondered who would listen. I questioned whether my voice mattered. I debated adding one more thing to an already full life.

And yet, here we are one year, 52 episodes, and thousands of downloads later.

This anniversary episode is a reflection on how Struggle & Strength: Moms Balancing It All with Nikki began, how it evolved, and what this journey has taught me about consistency, courage, and showing up before you feel ready.

From my daughter playing the intro on her guitar, to me singing it myself, to a professional intro, and now no intro at all...this podcast has grown because I grew.

In this episode, I share: • How starting imperfectly changed everything • Why consistency builds confidence • What happens when moms give themselves permission to use their voice • And why if I can do this so can you

If you have been waiting for a sign to start something that matters to you, this episode is it. Subscribe now and share with your mom friends.

For years, I couldn’t quite put my finger on it but now I finally understand why our family struggles in big systems.

We are not a fan of big organizations. And it has nothing to do with size… it has everything to do with being seen and valued.

From schools to sports, we have learned that our kids thrive in smaller environments where they are known, valued, and intentionally developed not treated like a number. Watching my daughter struggle in a massive sports organization while my son thrived in a small, hands-on one made this painfully clear.

And here’s the realization that hit me hardest: This is the same reason so many people choose to shop small.

Small businesses offer connection. They remember your name. They care about the outcome.

In this episode, I talk about: • Why big organizations often prioritize volume over value • How this shows up in youth sports and education • The emotional toll of watching your child be overlooked • And how this mirrors the way moms feel in large systems too

This episode is for any parent questioning whether “bigger” is really better and learning to trust that choosing smaller, more intentional spaces can make all the difference.

We say we “lost our purpose.” We say we “lost our passion.” But what does that really mean?

This week, after a conversation with my son’s friend’s mom, something hit me hard: Most moms cannot answer a simple question…

If you had two hours completely to yourself what would you do?

Not for your kids. Not for your spouse. Not for your job. Not for your house.

For YOU.

The truth is, most of us cannot answer because we have spent so long taking care of everyone else that we forgot how to listen to our own desires.

In this episode, we go deep into: 💛 Why moms lose their sense of purpose 💛 Why high-achieving women feel disconnected from themselves 💛 The invisible identity loss that happens in motherhood 💛 How to begin finding your spark again

If you feel disconnected from who you are or what you want this episode is your mirror, your guide, and your reminder that you are still in there.