Previa Alliance Podcast - podcast cover

Previa Alliance Podcast

Previa Alliance Teampreviaalliance.com

There are few experiences as universal to human existence as pregnancy and childbirth, and yet its most difficult parts — perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) — are still dealt with in the shadows, shrouded in stigma. The fact is 1 in 5 new and expecting birthing people will experience a PMAD, yet among those who do many are afraid to talk about it, some are not even aware they’re experiencing one, and others don’t know where to turn for help. The fact is, when someone suffers from a maternal mental health disorder it affects not only them, their babies, partners, and families - it impacts our communities.


In the Previa Alliance Podcast series, Sarah Parkhurst and Whitney Gay are giving air to a vastly untapped topic by creating a space for their guests —  including survivors of PMADs and healthcare professionals in maternal mental health —  to share their experiences and expertise openly. And in doing so, Sarah and Whitney make it easy to dig deep and get real about the facts of perinatal mental health, fostering discussions about the raw realities of motherhood. Not only will Previa Alliance Podcast listeners walk away from each episode with a sense of belonging, they’ll also be armed with evidence-based tools for healing, coping mechanisms, and the language to identify the signs and symptoms of PMADs — the necessary first steps in a path to treatment. The Previa Alliance Podcast series is intended for anyone considering pregnancy, currently pregnant, and postpartum as well as the families and communities who support them.



Sarah Parkhurst

Previa Alliance Podcast Co-host; Founder & CEO of Previa Alliance


A postpartum depression survivor and mom to two boys, Sarah is on a mission to destigmatize the experiences of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), and to educate the world on the complex reality of being a mom. Sarah has been working tirelessly to bring to light the experiences of women who have not only suffered a maternal mental health crisis but who have survived it and rebuilt their lives. By empowering women to share their own experiences, by sharing expert advice and trusted resources, and by advocating for health care providers and employers to provide support for these women and their families, Sarah believes as a society we can  minimize the impact of the current maternal mental health crisis, while staving off future ones. 



Whitney Gay 

Previa Alliance Podcast Co-host;  licensed clinician and therapist 


For the past ten years, Whitney has been committed to helping women heal from the trauma of a postpartum mental health crisis as well as process the grief of a miscarriage or the loss of a baby. She believes that the power of compassion paired with developing critical coping skills helps moms to heal, rebuild, and eventually thrive. In the Previa Alliance Podcast series, Whitney not only shares her professional expertise, but also her own personal experiences of motherhood and recovery from grief. 


Follow us on Instagram @Previa.Alliance

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Episodes

Let's Talk The Highly Sensitive Child and Parent with Mama Psychologist Chelsea Bodi

You may have heard the term “highly sensitive” child or parent but do you really know what that means or how to navigate? Listen in today as Sarah and Psychologist Chelsea Bodi break it down and touch on anger, repair, and how today’s parents are on the frontlines of managing their own mental health while parenting. Chelsea Bodi Psychologist, Bsc, MACP, RPsych Follow Mama Psychologist https://www.instagram.com/mamapsychologists?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Beyon...

Aug 26, 202437 minSeason 1Ep. 123

What Happens When You Actually Put Moms First With Dr. Constance Guille

Today Sarah is joined by Reproductive Psychiatrist, Dr. Constance Guille, as they talk about how the current system of screening moms for their mental health is failing moms. They discuss how coming directly to a mom to screen and treat is how we address the maternity crisis and what you can do if you are struggling to get help. Dr. Constance Guille is an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at MUSC. Dr. Guille completed her psychiatry residency training an...

Aug 19, 202423 minSeason 1Ep. 122

Can You Really Say That to Your Therapist?

Have you ever wondered if therapy could be the key to unlocking a smoother journey through motherhood? Join us as Whitney helps unravel some of the complexities of starting therapy, especially for new mothers, by breaking down common fears and misconceptions, reassuring listeners that therapy is a space where vulnerability is not only welcome but encouraged. No need to be perfect, just genuinely open. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previaalliance_) • Instagram photos and videos Keep t...

Aug 12, 202431 minSeason 1Ep. 121

Interview with Dr. Nikki Scott: We Have to Talk About It as Moms

Have you ever felt like no one is talking about the struggles of motherhood? Wonder if any other mom is feeling how you do? We have, and we are going straight to Dr. Nikki Scott to have a conversation of why it is so important to not just talk about what we experience in motherhood, but how to navigate it. This episode is full of take away tips that you can start implementing today! Dr. Nikki Scott is a proud mama and wife. She is also a social worker, grief counselor, and college professor with...

Aug 05, 202444 minSeason 1Ep. 120

Learning to Read - Getting Back to School with Dewey

Join us as we welcome literacy advocate Pam Allyn on the Previa Alliance podcast, where she shares essential insights for parents concerned about their children's kindergarten readiness. Learn how to create a cozy and supportive environment for reading at home, boosting both your child's well-being and their love for books and ensuring a positive start to their educational journey. Pam Allyn is an award-winning author, educator, and innovator. Her books include Every Child a Super Reader, co-aut...

Jul 29, 202432 minSeason 1Ep. 119

Playgrounds, Kid Birthday Parties, and Meeting New Mom Friends

Have you ever found yourself feeling like a middle schooler all over again, trying to make friends at your child's birthday party? Whitney and Sarah dive deep into the highs and lows of connecting with other parents at kid functions in our latest conversation. Tune in as they emphasize the importance of making small, genuine connections that can help parents and children alike, sharing personal stories and strategies for building a supportive community. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@...

Jul 22, 202425 minSeason 1Ep. 118

Interview with Paige Johnson-Serjue: When You Are Part of the Club You Didn't Ask to Be In

Ever wondered how societal pressures and personal grief shape the journey of motherhood? This week, we sit down with Paige Johnson, as she shares her poignant experiences with motherhood, including the heart-wrenching moments of miscarriage, and how these trials inspired her to create a community that celebrates mothers beyond their parenting roles. Her candid revelations highlight the importance of community support and normalizing conversations around the struggles and triumphs of being a mom....

Jul 15, 202442 minSeason 1Ep. 117

Summer Hey Whitney & Toolbox with Jenny!

Ever feel like the endless noise and chaos of summer with kids at home is driving you to the brink? You’re not alone! Join Sarah, Whitney, and Jenny as they share their own hilarious and heartfelt stories of navigating this whirlwind season. We also look at the tricky terrain of intrusive questions about family planning and the societal pressures that come with motherhood. Learn how to set boundaries with grace and tackle the comparison traps set by social media. This episode is a comforting rem...

Jul 08, 202426 minSeason 1Ep. 116

Summer Travel with Unnati Patel

Summer travel season is on! Here at Previa Alliance, we like to say traveling with children is parenting in a different location. This week, we have our favorite sleep guru, Unnati Patel, back to help you and your little. Let's get rested and take in some tips and tricks on how to set you and your child up for sleep success! Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previaalliance_) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the questions coming by sending them to info@previaalliance.com or DM us on Ins...

Jul 01, 202430 minSeason 1Ep. 115

Interview with Taylor Cordell (Part 2)

Join us for the second-part of our episode with our esteemed guest, sex therapist Taylor Cordell, as we highlight the importance of open communication and mutual support between partners, acknowledging how differently men and women cope with these challenges. Taylor dives deep into the emotional rollercoaster couples often experience when trying to conceive or recovering from birth or loss, emphasizing the importance of maintaining non-sexual intimacy like cuddling and meaningful conversations. ...

Jun 24, 202448 minSeason 1Ep. 114

Interview with Taylor Cordell (Part 1)

Ever wondered how to maintain a spark during pregnancy or even post-baby? Guest Taylor Cordell and Sarah dive deep into the complexities of intimacy during and after pregnancy, breaking down how changing physical and emotional states can impact desire and comfort levels. We also offer practical tips for balancing intimacy with the demands of existing children, emphasizing the importance of clear and compassionate communication to navigate differing needs and comfort zones. Follow Previa Alliance...

Jun 17, 202443 minSeason 1Ep. 113

Interview with Mckenna Pou: Getting Back Our Physical Identity

Balancing motherhood and fitness is no easy feat, and our guest this week, Mckenna Pou offers practical advice on how to integrate exercise into a busy mom's life. From creative activities during nap times to setting realistic goals amidst the chaos, we explore strategies to maintain health and well-being. We also address the pressures of social media comparisons, emphasizing the need for adaptable routines and self-compassion. Mckenna's insights are a beacon for mothers seeking to reclaim their...

Jun 10, 202452 minSeason 1Ep. 112

Interview with Mallory Whitmore (A.K.A. The Formula Mom): The Other F Word

In this epidsode, join us as we sit down with Mallory Whitmore, also known as the Formula Mom on Instagram, who bravely shares her personal journey through the challenges of postpartum life and formula feeding. From dealing with medical complications and insufficient milk supply to the emotional weight of societal expectations, Mallory's story is a powerful testament to the need for better support systems for formula-feeding parents. Per the CDC up to 75% of babies will be formula fed by 6 month...

Jun 03, 202446 minSeason 1Ep. 111

Interview with Motherhood Center Founder Paige Bellenbaum

Paige Bellenbaum, LCSW Founding Director and Chief External Relations Officer Paige Bellenbaum, LCSW is the Founding Director and Chief External Relations Officer at The Motherhood Center of New York. Paige attended UCLA as an undergraduate and received her MSW from the Columbia School of Social Work. For 20 years, Paige worked in the non-profit sector, holding senior leadership positions at Hamilton Family Center in San Francisco and The Partnership for the Homeless, Habitat for Humanity, and S...

May 27, 202436 minSeason 1Ep. 110

Previa Playback: Depression During Pregnancy

This week, Sarah goes back to a fan favorite episode for Maternal Mental Health Month, Depression During Pregnancy. You know about postpartum depression, but do you know about depression that occurs during pregnancy? Listen in as Sarah and Whitney talk about the risk factors, what depression during pregnancy looks like, and how to advocate for yourself. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previa.alliance) • Instagram photos and videos Previa Alliance Podcast (@previapodcast) • Instagram ph...

May 20, 202418 minSeason 1Ep. 109

Interview with Andrea Stefens: Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG)

Imagine being trapped on a never-ending roller coaster of nausea and vomiting while trying to cherish the miracle of pregnancy. That's the reality for those battling Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG), a condition that our guest, Andrea Stefens, tackled not once, but twice. Andrea, a dedicated therapist and hyperemesis coach, joins us to unravel her personal fight against this incapacitating condition. Through hospital stays, invasive treatments, and the challenge of maintaining family life amidst her ...

May 15, 202435 minSeason 1Ep. 108

Why Mothers Day May Have Been Hard

This episode peels back the curtain on the social media highlight reel, urging a return to authenticity in how we celebrate our mothers and ourselves. We discuss how crucial it is to communicate our needs and desires with our partners and how to avoid the potential emotional pitfalls of Mother's Day. By offering strategies and emphasizing the value of support systems, we hope to provide understanding and solidarity for anyone who might find Mother's Day to be a challenging time. Follow Previa Al...

May 10, 202429 minSeason 1Ep. 107

Interview with Kristina Dunley: My Story of Postpartum Psychosis

In this episode, Kristina Dunley bravely shares her harrowing encounter with postpartum psychosis. Her story is a sobering reminder that every mother's postpartum journey deserves to be met with the highest level of care and compassion. We hope this episode helps foster a culture of openness and understanding, ensuring mothers everywhere receive the support they so deeply need. More About Kristina! Kristina Dulaney RN, PMH-C Postpartum Psychosis Survivor Founder/Executive Director, Cherished Mom...

May 03, 202440 minSeason 1Ep. 106

Interview with Courtney Montgomery: When Anxiety Meets Motherhood

Mothers are expected to have it all together, but reality isn't always so simple. In this episode, we explore strategies for resilience and self-care that are as practical as they are empowering. Courtney Montgomery joins us to share personal tactics from her 'toolbox', like meditation and cold showers, and stresses the importance of teaching children to express their emotions honestly. At the heart of this episode is the simple reminder that it's not just okay to seek help, but it's a sign of s...

Apr 29, 202431 minSeason 1Ep. 105

National Infertility Awareness Week with Alex Kornswiet (Our Beautiful Surprise)

In an episode close to our hearts, we revisit the silent struggle of infertility with Alex, an advocate whose voice resonates with unwavering strength in the infertility and motherhood community. We delve into the nuances of motherhood that surface after infertility and loss, from navigating triggers and evolving relationships with our partners, to the importance of setting boundaries for self-care. Join us for an intimate episode that offers not just a beacon of hope, but a reminder that you ar...

Apr 22, 202450 minSeason 1Ep. 104

PMDD Awareness with Dawn

Dr. Dawn Boender, an OB/GYN turned reproductive behavioral health fellow, joins Sarah and Whitney to unravel the mystery of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and how it can turn the tides of emotion for women worldwide. From lifestyle tweaks to the potential of nutritional supplements and the transformative power of therapy, Dr. Dawn paints a vivid picture of the challenges women face when their mental well-being is intertwined with the menstrual cycle. Her compassionate advice offers solac...

Apr 15, 202438 minSeason 1Ep. 103

Are Moms Burnt Out or Are We Codependent?

Sarah and Whitney are joined by Hannah Stiltner for a deep exploration into the varying faces of codependency, from the anxiously attached to the fiercely independent. These insights guide us through understanding the impact of codependent behaviors on self-worth and relationships, emphasizing the importance of personal accountability and setting boundaries, the significance of not rewarding negative behavior, and the value of investing in healthy, reciprocal relationships. Join us as we affirm ...

Apr 08, 202450 minSeason 1Ep. 102

Why We Don't Joke About Pregnancy

The witching hour isn't just for babies; it's a very real phenomenon for parents too. Sharing stories of this collective struggle, Sarah and Whitney discuss actionable methods like stepping outside for breath of air, taking a moment for yourself, and even discussing this struggle out loud with the family. Tune in for a powerful blend of empathy and understanding that aims to illuminate the path to mental wellness for every mom out there. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previa.alliance)...

Apr 01, 202422 minSeason 1Ep. 101

Why We Need Moms in Front of Us

In this episode, Sarah and Whitney share tales of becoming a mom, and being a source of motivation and support for other moms. Whether you're battling mental health challenges or just trying to figure out the car seat, remember that amidst the chaos of raising little humans, you're enveloped by a community ready to lift you up! Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previa.alliance) • Instagram photos and videos Previa Alliance Podcast (@previapodcast) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the q...

Mar 25, 202420 minSeason 1Ep. 100

The Most Asked Questions About Postpartum Anxiety

In this episode, Sarah and Whitney dissect the nature of anxiety that can linger beyond the baby blues, potentially morphing into a generalized anxiety disorder that can affect everyday life. They dive into the importance of therapy, help explain the nature of intrusive thoughts, and, most importantly, help mothers realize that they're part of an ever-growing community of moms who stand united in the face of anxiety. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previa.alliance) • Instagram photos a...

Mar 18, 202421 minSeason 1Ep. 99

The Most Asked Question About Postpartum Depression

In this heartfelt episode, Sarah and Whitney unpack the complexities of postpartum depression and baby blues. They dive deep into dissecting the causes and impact while emphasizing the important distinction between the two. Listen in as they share their own experiences with postpartum anxiety and take a look at the rise in postpartum mental illness in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previa.alliance) • Instagram photos and videos Previa Alliance Podcas...

Mar 11, 202429 minSeason 1Ep. 98

Why Moms Can't Put Their Own Oxygen Mask On First

We're all familiar with the airline safety instruction to put on our own oxygen mask before assisting others, but the truth is, for mothers, this goes against our every instinct. In this episode, Whitney and Sarah share a candid conversation about guilt and societal expectations, and the importance of self-care. If you're a mother who struggles with putting everyone before yourself, you won't want to miss this episode. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previa.alliance) • Instagram photos...

Mar 04, 202432 minSeason 1Ep. 97

Lacey Douthat's Postpartum Journey

Lacey returns to the podcast to share her journey since giving birth. Join us as she Lacey shares her pregnancy story and her commitment to self-improvement postpartum, from embracing the simplicity of nice pajamas to the transformative power of regular therapy sessions. You can follow Lacey @wearetheglittergospel on Instagram. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previa.alliance) • Instagram photos and videos Previa Alliance Podcast (@previapodcast) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the q...

Feb 26, 202459 minSeason 1Ep. 96

Interview with Courtney English: Sensory Dysregulation with a Pediatric OT

Sarah is excited to have Occupational Therapist Courtney English join this week's podcast to discuss sensory dysregulation. Courtney shares her journey from hand therapist to pediatric occupational therapist and her struggles with postpartum anxiety. Courtney's story isn't just about her professional journey; it's a deep dive into the heart of parenting—understanding your child's needs and learning to be their emotional anchor amidst the waves of developmental challenges. Courtney shares strateg...

Feb 19, 202447 minSeason 1Ep. 95

Exploring Attachment Styles

Do you ever wonder how your childhood experiences impact your relationships today? After Sarah discovered her own attachment style through a quiz recommendation from Whitney, a conversation was sparked that they just had to share with you. Together, they unravel the subtle yet powerful ways our early interactions with caregivers shape the complex tapestry of our current relationships. Journey with them as they explore the nuances of different attachment styles, and how the echoes of inconsistent...

Feb 12, 202424 minSeason 1Ep. 94
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