The Default Parent Dilemma: Navigating Parenthood, Partnership, and Mom Guilt with Renee Reina

In this week’s episode of Your Cup of Joy, I’m joined by Renee Reina: content creator, host of The Mom Room podcast, fellow co-host of Friend Of, and most importantly, one of my closest friends. Together, we dive into one of the most transformative and validating conversations I’ve had about motherhood. If you’ve ever felt like you were holding your entire household together with invisible strings and no one really noticed, this episode is a must-listen. We talk about what it means to be the “default parent”, the silent weight of being constantly “on,” the overstimulation that comes with never being alone, and the subtle dynamics that fall into place when no one is looking. Renee shares her own evolution, from early postpartum to now raising a school-aged child, and how her marriage shifted along the way. I share the raw realities of parenting twins, trying to “do it all,” and realizing I had taken on roles I never meant to keep.This isn’t just a vent session. It’s a space to reflect, to laugh, and most importantly, to feel seen. We explore what it takes to have hard conversations with our partners, how to shift the dynamic, and what it actually looks like to ask for help without guilt.If you’re in the thick of things right now, I hope this conversation brings you comfort and clarity.  Remember, it’s not about finding the perfect balance, it’s about finding a blend that works for you. So take this time for yourself to tune in and fill your cup, because you deserve it. If this episode resonated or hit home, send it to a fellow mom who could use a little joy today too.Connect with Renee:Instagram: @thereneereina / @themomroomTikTok: @thereneereinaListen to “The Mom Room”: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-mom-room/id1521655911Listen to “Friend Of”: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/friend-of/id1804716774Ariana's Links:Website Instagram: @‌ArianaJoyChristie @YourCupofJoyPodcastTikTok: @‌ArianaChristie

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