Episode 59: Finding Balance as a Millennial Mom with Special Guest Allie McQuaid, LCPC

Motherhood is often described as one of the most rewarding experiences in life, but it’s no secret that it can also be one of the most challenging. In Episode 59 of The Modern Mom’s Roadmap to Balance Podcast, host Kayla Nettleton dives deep into the realities of parenting with guest Allie McQuaid, a licensed professional counselor specializing in perinatal mental health. Together, they tackle some of the biggest struggles modern moms face today, from navigating anxiety to managing the pressures brought on by social media.

Allie shares her personal journey as a mom who has faced anxiety throughout her life, including during pregnancy and postpartum. With a preschooler at home and a wealth of professional experience, Allie brings both personal and professional insights to the table. She discusses how the early years of motherhood can feel like a whirlwind of changes, where balance seems elusive, and self-sacrifice becomes second nature.

A major focus of the conversation is how social media has changed the landscape of parenting. While it offers connection and valuable information, it can also perpetuate unrealistic standards, leaving moms feeling inadequate or overwhelmed. Kayla and Allie break down how to identify supportive content versus content that adds unnecessary pressure. They encourage moms to curate their feeds to prioritize mental health and discuss the importance of pausing before impulsively adopting every piece of advice or product promoted online.

Allie also dives into the concept of balance, describing it as a constantly shifting target rather than a fixed state. She likens it to a game of Tetris, where life’s responsibilities and challenges fall like puzzle pieces, sometimes fitting perfectly and other times piling up chaotically. The key, she explains, is learning how to reset and reprioritize when things start to feel overwhelming.

A highlight of the episode is the discussion about breaking generational cycles. Many millennial moms are learning skills like emotional regulation and boundary-setting for the first time while simultaneously teaching these skills to their children. This dual journey can feel overwhelming, especially when compounded by the mental load of managing a household. Allie emphasizes the importance of repair in parenting—acknowledging mistakes, apologizing, and modeling imperfection as part of healthy relationships.

This episode isn’t just about identifying the struggles—it’s about offering actionable solutions. Allie provides strategies for managing the mental load, building self-awareness, and creating a more sustainable approach to motherhood. From setting realistic expectations to engaging in open communication with partners, the conversation is filled with insights that empower moms to take small but meaningful steps toward balance and self-care.

Whether you’re a new mom navigating postpartum challenges, a seasoned parent trying to keep up with the demands of modern life, or someone seeking validation and support, this episode has something for you. Kayla and Allie remind listeners that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed, and it’s okay to ask for help. The path to balance isn’t about perfection—it’s about finding what works for you and your family.

Tune in to Episode 59 of The Modern Mom’s Roadmap to Balance Podcast for an honest, relatable, and inspiring conversation. Let this be your reminder that you’re not alone on this journey, and there’s always room for growth, healing, and connection.