The holidays are supposed to be joyful… but for so many early mothers, they are heavy, overwhelming, and emotionally draining. In this powerful two-part conversation, Susan explores the truth behind holiday burnout with both a mental health expert and a young mother living it in real time.

First, clinical mental health counselor Nicki breaks down what really happens to our bodies and minds during the holiday season — the guilt, the comparison, the emotional load, the pressure to “look like a good mom,” and how stress slowly becomes burnout. She explains emotional, physical, and mental burnout in clear, accessible language, and gives simple tools for grounding, rest, and resetting when the season feels too heavy.

Then, a mother of five and a brand-new grandmother, shares her vulnerable story of reaching out for help this Christmas because finances were tight and expectations felt overwhelming. She opens up about embarrassment, guilt, the mental toll of financial strain, breaking traditions, and what it felt like when people stepped up to support her family. Her honesty reminds all of us that asking for help is an act of strength, not shame.

Together, these conversations shine light on both sides of holiday burnout — the psychology behind it, and the lived experience of mothers who are doing the best they can with what they have.

If you’ve ever felt like the holidays demanded more than you could give, this episode will remind you:You are not alone.You are not failing.
And support exists for you.