Happy Hump Day, Reader!

How is your month going? And while we’re at it… how’s your mental?

We’re still in May — which means it’s Mental Health Awareness Month, and with the attention of Mother’s Day already far in our rear-view, I’ve been doing a lot of thinking about what it actually means to support women —especially those navigating motherhood and caregiving.

What’s on my mind today:

The other day, I saw a TikTok from a well-known influencer in her 30s doing the “Propaganda I’m Not Falling For” trend…

And right there, on her list?
​“Being a mom.”

At first, I was shocked — not by her desire not to be a mom — but by the fact that she labeled motherhood as propaganda. 😳

I understand that motherhood, fertility, and family-building are deeply layered topics with emotional, physical, and political nuances. But it left me wondering:

I won’t lie — at one point in my own life, I might’ve even agreed with her.

Because let’s be honest…

A one-time “baby bonus” of $5,000 barely covers a year’s worth of groceries in this economy. It’s hardly a reason to endure 10 months of pregnancy plus 18+ years of caregiving (and yes, lest we forget – motherhood is FO’ LYFE 😅).

But here's the truth:

Mothers need more.​
More support.
More community.
More honest conversations.

And that’s exactly what I’m unpacking in this week’s new episode of the JOYrney To Purpose® Podcast with my special guest, Mariekarl Vilceus-Talty, President & CEO of PMCH (Partnership for Maternal and Child Health of Northern NJ).

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Let’s talk about it. Take this 2-second poll!

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At the end of the day, motherhood is not just a title — it’s a transformation of who we are, and how we see ourselves as women.

When mothers are mentally and emotionally supported, the JOY, confidence, and clarity they pass down to future generations can’t be measured.

So my question for you this week is simple — but important: What is it that you need?

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As a woman, a mom, a partner, a leader, a caregiver…
Have you made space to name it?
Do you feel safe enough to ask for it?

Because asking for what you need isn’t weakness — it’s wisdom that ultimately brings you into your freedom.

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We’re on the JOYrney™ together… ONE feel-good thing at a time.
Erica

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P.S. Need space to be seen, supported, and breathe again? I have a few spots open for 1:1 JOY-JOLT sessions this month. Hit reply and let me know, or book one here.

The JOYrney To Purpose® Podcast​
​🎙️ New Episode: JOYrney™ To: COMMUNITY CARE ​
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This week, we’re diving into a powerful conversation about motherhood and the profound impact that caring for mothers can have on the entire community — creating generational healing along the way. Y’all… this conversation is everything.

We talk about:
✨ What’s missing in maternal health conversations
✨ The mental load of motherhood
✨ How we reclaim JOY in the face of overwhelm

If you’ve ever felt unseen, under-supported, or straight-up exhausted in your caregiving season — this one’s for you!

NEW episodes premiers on YouTube every other Friday at 5:00 PM EST (subscribe/turn on notifications).

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🎧 Subscribe and Watch on YouTube or Tune in on your favorite platform​

PS: If you haven’t already — it would mean so much if you’d take a moment to rate, review, and share the show with someone who could use a little JOY right now. Every single share makes a difference!

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Work With Me!

If you're ever curious or in need, here are other ways I can support your JOYrney™

Speaking & Corporate Consulting Bring the JOYrney™ to your organization/workplace! Let us know a little more about your organization, and a member of our team will reach out with the next steps. ​Learn more & book a workshop​ ​

Coaching Are you a female executive, C-Suite leader, or a woman seeking guidance looking to rediscovering JOY in “what’s next” (i.e., motherhood, divorce, career pivot)? Please complete the form below to see if we’re a good fit to help you! ​JOYrney™ coaching application​

Reflect on your JOYrney™! Align your personal/professional goals with intention and FUN. Use the JOYrney Daily™ Planner to clarify your purpose and implement a solid strategy for bringing your vision to life! Then share your favorite features and leave a review on Amazon! ​Order JOYrney Daily™ Planner​ ​

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BTW: If you’re a nurse/working in healthcare (or know someone who is) and you’re seeing burnout firsthand, I’d love to explore how we can bring more JOY to the healthcare system. I’m conducting a personal survey to hear more about your experiences and how together we can better support you as you care for others!

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Have a great week, Reader and remember –

We’re on the JOYrney™ together …ONE feel-good thing at a time!

Xx,

Erica