The Mama Sisterhood

Heather Evans

Welcome to The Mama Sisterhood - I'm Heather Evans. When my twins were born at 24 weeks gestation, I began to think about the uniqueness of each of our motherhood journeys. I also began to understand the importance of education and support from other moms, no matter how different our lives may be. Each episode will highlight one mother's journey and the lessons she has learned on this crazy path we call life. I'm so happy to have you here. Welcome to the Mama Sisterhood!

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21 episodes
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English

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S5 · E2
August 25 · 50 min
Episode 102 - Melissa's Story - Beyond Friday Night Lights: Navigating Her Son's Spinal Cord Injury Through Faith & Community
Some moments change a life forever. When Melissa's son, Trenton, was injured during his senior year in a Friday night high school football game, everything changed in an instant. In the hours and days that followed, their family didn't fully understand the severity of his spinal cord injury or what the future would hold. Despite that, they clung tightly to their faith and their community support as they navigated all the changes in their world. In this heartfelt episode, Melissa shares the raw emotions of those early days, the months spent traveling across the country for rehabilitation, and the determination that helped Trenton not only finish high school but eventually attend college independently. Their journey is one of resilience, perseverance, and refusing to let tragedy define the future. Melissa also shares how their family's experience inspired their non-profit, Game Plan 4 Hope. Through support, resources, adaptive equipment, and community, the organization is making sure others don't have to navigate this journey alone. Check out Game Plan 4 Hope: gameplan4hope.org Hear Trenton tell his story on a podcast: https://www.fortitudethepodcast.com/2009891/episodes/11370570-5-trenton-bass-tragic-football-accident-tackling-paralysis
S5 · E1
August 11 · 57 min
Episode 101 - Shelby's Story - A Mother's Fight After A Daycare Tragedy
In this deeply moving episode, I talk with Shelby, a mom whose life changed in an instant after her infant son, Benny, suffered a catastrophic injury while at daycare. Shelby shares the heartbreaking story of the day everything changed—from a police officer arriving at her work to deliver the news to the long road of unanswered questions, hospital stays, and adjusting to a completely different future. Today, she is a full-time caregiver to Benny, whose medical complexities have transformed her family's daily life, while also running an online boutique and raising her two daughters. We talk about what it truly means to become a "medical mom," the resilience required to navigate therapies, appointments, and advocacy, and the hope that keeps her moving forward. Shelby also opens up about pursuing stem cell treatment for Benny and why even the smallest signs of progress are worth celebrating. Beyond sharing her family's journey, Shelby offers practical advice for other parents, including the importance of carefully vetting childcare providers and advocating for yourself in the workplace. She encourages working moms to seek employers who genuinely support the realities of raising a family. This episode is one of heartbreak, incredible strength, and unwavering love. Shelby's story is a powerful reminder of the resilience parents discover in the face of unimaginable circumstances—and the hope that can still exist, even on the hardest days. Follow Benny on FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61591158371122Follow Shelby on IG: @shelbcannon Support Shelby and her family:https://www.supportnow.org/beelieve-in-benny Check out Shelby's boutique:https://shopraeandkae.com/
May 21 · 27 min
Re-launch of Episode 58 - Ashley's Story - Sanfilippo Syndrome & Making the Most of Every Day
RE-RELEASE Today, I'm happy to share my interview with Ashley, whose 8-year-old daughter, Sadie, has been diagnosed with a rare disease called Sanfilippo Syndrome. Sanfilippo, as described by Ashley, is similar to dementia or Alzheimer's, but in children. In this episode, you will hear about:- What is Sanfilippo and how does it present in children- What has been Sadie's journey in terms of diagnosis, symptoms, and the involvement in a clinical trial- How Ashley makes sure that Sadie's life is full of travel and adventure This one is SO full of great lessons for all of us - the way Ashley approaches each day with Sadie is something we should all do! To learn more about Ashley and Sadie, you can find them on IG at @savingsadieraeYou can help at: https://curesanfilippofoundation.org/how-to-help/
May 5 · 44 min
Re-launch of Episode 19 - Jessie's Story - Fleeing Ukraine With a 2-Day-Old Baby
RE-RELEASE! This is such an exciting episode! Today, I have the honor of chatting with Jessie Boeckmann, whose daughter was born via surrogacy in Ukraine the day before Russia attacked. Jessie takes us along her journey as she escapes Ukraine with her husband and her newborn, driving and even walking to safety. You definitely don't want to miss this fascinating story that will keep you on the edge of your seat!
April 21 · 41 min
Re-launch of Episode 72 - Salym's Story - A Beautiful Life: Finding Joy with ALS
This is a big thing to say, but it's true: this interview changed my life. I had the complete honor of interviewing Salym Liufau who is a mom of 4. Salym shares about her journey with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). While this diagnosis may have slowed down what she can do physically, it has also led her to really understand what is important in life - no longer worrying about things like having a Pinterest-worthy house, but instead, stopping to really absorb the joy in her children's faces and snuggling together as a family in bed, sharing movie nights. I'm so excited to share this episode with you all, and I hope it touches your hearts as much as it did mine. Follow Salym on IG @alswithsalym
April 10 · 58 min
Re-launch of Episode 45 - Andi's Story - World Schooling Through 27 Countries and 7 Continents
On today's interview, I had the privilege to talk with Andi Almond about her family's incredible 13-month world schooling adventure. Andi and her family prepared for 5 years for this epic trip which took them through 27 different countries and 7 continents. She also tells about the details of world schooling her two kids, incorporating their lessons into where they were traveling. You'll love her stories about Morocco, Greece, Argentina, Nepal, Antarctica, and more! You can check out Andi's adventures on IG @4almondsabroad and find her book, The Everywhere Classroom, at andialmond.com
S4 · E25
March 24 · 44 min
Episode 100 - Heather's Story - "Gold-In Cracks:" Finding Herself Amidst Loss, Eating Disorder Recovery, & Motherhood
What do you do when your worst fear becomes your reality — just as your life is beginning. In this deeply moving conversation, Heather Palmer shares her journey through devastating loss, silent struggle, and ultimate healing. Shortly after getting married, Heather’s husband was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Because of the side effects of his treatment, they turned to IVF to conceive their daughter — a baby her husband would only get to know for one precious month in the hospital before he passed away. Heather opens up about navigating new motherhood while grieving, remarrying and growing her family, and the hidden battle she fought with an eating disorder — even when everything looked “fine” on the outside. Now the author of Gold-In Cracks, Heather draws on the Japanese concept of Kintsugi — the art of repairing broken pottery with gold — to show how our deepest pain can become the very place our strength shines through. This episode is a powerful reminder that broken doesn’t mean ruined — it can mean rebuilt, refined, and even more beautiful than before. Heather's website: www.mygoldwithin.com Follow Heather on IG : @heather8888
S4 · E24
March 10 · 50 min
Episode 99 - Steph's Story - Motherhood Plot Twist: Twins and Then Triplets
As a twin mom, life was crazy when my kids were little - but today's guest, Steph, took that adventure to a whole new level! In this episode, Steph shares about her fertility journey, including the moment she chose to ignore what turned out to be very inaccurate advice from her doctor. She opens up about using a sperm donor, welcoming twins, and then — a few years later — going through the same process again… only to find herself laughing uncontrollably when she learned she was pregnant with triplets. Steph walks us through her pregnancies, navigating life with preemies, and what it’s really like to have that many little feet running around at home. Steph also shares what she had to let go of, what she discovered truly didn’t matter, and the advice she now gives to overwhelmed moms trying to hold it all together. This episode is honest, emotional, and chaotic ... all in the best way.
S3 · E23
February 24 · 42 min
Episode 98 - Tracy's Story - Motherhood at 35,000 Feet: Raising a Son While Working as a Flight Attendant
What does motherhood look like when your office is in the sky? In this episode, Tracy shares what it’s really like to raise her 10-year-old son while working as a flight attendant. From the surprising perks of having clear boundaries between home and work, to the emotional weight of time away, Tracy gives an honest look at balancing her job and motherhood. We talk about breastfeeding in the aviation industry, navigating homeschooling with a nontraditional schedule, and the unexpected ways this career has shaped her relationship with her son. Plus — Tracy shares insider travel tips every parent needs to hear before flying with kids! Whether you’re a working mom, a traveling parent, or just curious about life behind the cabin door, this episode will give you a whole new perspective.
February 10 · 32 min
Episode 97- Mollie's Story - Mama to World's Most Premature Baby Born at 21+0 Weeks Gestation
In this powerful and hope-filled episode, I sit down with Mollie, the mom of Nash, who was born at just 21 weeks and 0 days gestation, weighing only 10 ounces — making him the world’s most premature baby. This episode blew me away because this means my micropreemies, who were born at 1.5 pounds, were THREE TIMES BIGGER than Nash - mind blown.Mollie shares about what it was like going into pregnancy so early, specifically following a devastating loss at 18 weeks gestation of her daughter. When Nash was born, his eyes were fused shut, he could not breathe on his own, and his skin was so underdeveloped, he could hardly be touched....but after nearly 200 days in NICU, Nash got to go home and is now a thriving 1.5 year old...who just happens to hold the very special honor of Guinness Book of World Records Most Premature Baby.
S3 · E21
January 26 · 36 min
Episode 96 - Amanda's story - A Mother's Journey with Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever
In this episode, I talk with Amanda, a mom whose 10-year-old son was hospitalized with Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever after developing severe headaches, fever, and a rash. What first appeared to be a typical illness quickly led to a hospital stay and a long journey to recovery. Amanda shares what it was like navigating uncertainty, advocating for her son, and supporting him through his journey, all while balancing other children and running her own business. While he is now doing much better physically, she opens up about the ongoing ADHD and anxiety he continues to manage following his illness. The conversation also explores work/life balance, the importance of leaning on your village, and that overall, you do what is best for your family. Learn more about Amanda's business, Empower Your Pelvis, virtual support for pelvic health: coaching.empoweryourpelvis.com IG: empower.your.pelvis
S3 · E20
January 13 · 39 min
Episode 95 - Ja' Bette's Story - Pregnant at 16: Defying the Limits Placed on Teen Moms
In this episode, I sit down with Ja’Bette, who shares her journey of becoming pregnant at 16 years old during her freshman year of college. She opens up about the stigma and challenges of being a pregnant teen, how it strained her family relationships — including a rift with her sister that lasted more than 25 years — and the determination it took to keep pursuing her dreams. Ja’Bette reflects on the critical role of support, such as what she received from a college mentor and a teacher who believed in her when she needed it most. Because of that encouragement and her own persistence, she went on to complete multiple degrees, build a successful career, and dedicate part of her work to supporting teen and student parents. Her story is a powerful reminder that pregnancy does not end possibility. Ja’Bette shares a message of hope for pregnant teens and young mothers everywhere: you can still follow your dreams — and achieve them. Learn more about Ja'Bette and her company, Wishful Doing, here: https://wishfuldoings.com
S3 · E19
Dec 30, 2025 · 48 min
Episode 94 - Lacey's Story - Seeing Beyond Blindness: Sharing Her Son’s Journey with a Rare Craniofacial Cleft
Happy Early New Year! In today's episode, I sit down with Lacey, an attorney and mom of two. Lacey’s oldest son, Christian, was born with a rare medical condition of a cleft that extends up into the area of his eyes, resulting in blindness. She shares what it was like entering motherhood with a medically complex baby (while balancing being in law school!), the surgeries and systems they’ve navigated, and how Christian has grown into a confident, happy teenager who doesn’t let his disability limit his life. Lacey shares about the importance of visibility, representation, and the belief that children like Christian deserve to be seen, celebrated, and treated like any other kid. Her younger son, Chandler, has autism and this has led to her having a very interesting experience of parenting kids with two types of disabilities - one you can see and one you cannot, and she shares how her sons have been treated differently due to this. Her family's journey inspired Lacey’s professional path as well. Today, she works as an attorney advocating for clients with disabilities, drawing from her lived experience to challenge systems, break stigmas, and help families access the support they deserve. This mama and her family are so incredible, and I'm honored to share her story as we begin the New Year! Follow Lacey at: @laceybuchanan on IG Lacey Nicole Buchanan on FB and at www.laceybuchanan.com
S3 · E18
Dec 16, 2025 · 1 hr 2 min
Episode 93 - Janelle's Story - Breaking the Silence on Teen Suicide & Providing Hope
Trigger Warning: This episode discusses teen mental health struggles and a suicide attempt. Please listen with care and step away if you need to. Resources for support are listed at the end of these notes.In this deeply honest and courageous conversation, I sit down with Janelle, a mom who lived every parent’s worst fear: her teenage daughter, Noe, attempted to take her own life. Janelle walks us through the time leading up to that terrifying moment—what Noe was experiencing, the anxiety she was battling, and the steps their family had already been taking to support her. From therapy to open conversations at home, Janelle was trying everything she knew how to do… yet things still escalated. Janelle shares: The early signs that Noe was struggling and how her family, school, and medical providers were trying to help What happened the day of the suicide attempt and how their family reacted Navigating inpatient treatment—what helped, what surprised her, and what was hardest Life after crisis, including ongoing counseling, 24 hour watchfulness, and creating a safe environment How their family continues to support Noe, how healing is not linear, and the tools they rely on today Why Janelle wants other parents to know there is ZERO shame in asking for help and that they are not alone This episode is a reminder that behind every strong family is a story—and no one has to face these struggles in silence. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, please reach out for help immediately: - 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 - Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741 - Local emergency services or the nearest ER if you are in immediate danger You are not alone. Support is available 24/7.
S3 · E16
Dec 2, 2025 · 35 min
Episode 92 - Nikki's Story - A Mother's Experience Escaping the Palisades Wildfire
In this powerful and conversation, I sit down with Nikki—a mom whose life changed in an instant when the Palisades wildfire tore through her neighborhood. What began as an ordinary day quickly became a race for survival as flames closed in and Nikki found herself separated from her husband and son during the evacuation. In this episode, Nikki opens up about: - The moment she realized the fire was coming and the sheer panic of having to flee without her family by her side- The chaotic evacuation, the terrifying hours before they reunited, and the instincts that kicked in as a mother - Losing their home and nearly every single belonging, and what it’s really like to start life over with nothing—not even a toothbrush - The unexpected angels who showed up in the days and weeks that followed, offering generosity, resources, and emotional support -The complicated reality of surviving trauma—how she’s doing now, why she’s honest about not being okay yet, and the strength her family has shown as they rebuild together Nikki’s story is raw, emotional, and full of the kind of hope that only comes from surviving the unimaginable. Her honesty is a gift, and her courage shines through as she shares the truth about healing after disaster: it’s messy, it’s ongoing, and you don’t have to walk it alone.
Nov 18, 2025 · 45 min
Episode 91 - Aaisha's Story - From Crisis to Calling: A Mother's Mission After Post-Partum Psychosis
Today's conversation is so very important, and I am not exaggerating when I say that listening could truly help you save someone's life. Our guest today, Aaisha, bravely shares how she has experienced severe postpartum psychosis not just once but twice - after the birth of her daughter and then following a miscarriage. While you may have heard of the term postpartum psychosis, I'm the first to admit that until I heard Aaisha's story (and read her incredible book!), I did not fully understand what it entails and how terrifying and dangerous it is. Aaisha opens up about: - The symptoms she experienced both times she had PPP (spoiler alert- they were different each time) - Her struggles to find help, the dangers of misdiagnosis, and how racial disparity affects getting care - What separates postpartum psychosis from other perinatal mood disorders, such as postpartum depression - What to do if a loved one is showing signs of postpartum psychosis and how vital it is to find help Please listen and share with anyone you can so we can spread the word about postpartum psychosis, educate healthcare providers, and and help mothers in need. I highly recommend Aaisha's book A Mom Like That: A Memoir of Postpartum Psychosis. Check it out here: https://aaishaalvi.com/ Learn more about Aaisha on IG: @aaishaalviwrites
S3 · E15
Nov 4, 2025 · 26 min
Episode 90 - Joanna's Story - Jude's Journey From Visual Impairment to Cross-Country Runner
When Joanna was told her newborn son, Jude, was blind, at first she thought her family would never be able to do normal family activities again. Little did she expect that now at age 13, in addition to keeping up with his five siblings, Jude would join the middle school cross-country team with the help of an assistant principal who learned to be his sighted guide. Joanna shares about: - How her family adjusted to teach Jude life skills and how he navigates his surroundings today - How he got into running and what it's like to be a sighted guide - What it was like joining his cross country team with the support he's gotten from his middle school - How, above all else, Jude is just like any other 13-year-old teen boy! For move information about CCVI in Kansas City, go to www.ccvi.org For another story of visual impairment, check out Episode 7 - Chelsea's Story!
S3 · E14
Oct 21, 2025 · 32 min
Episode 89 - Shannon's Story - Motherhood with Hearing Loss
Today I had the opportunity to chat with Shannon who shares about her journey through life and motherhood with healing loss. She talks about how her hearing loss affected her experiences with not just one, but TWO NICU babies - including one who was born right before Covid. Shannon speaks about how motherhood is different for her, in both good ways and in challenging ones, and what she hopes her journey has taught her children. She shares about her advocacy work and how she helps other mothers including those who are hard of hearing as well addressing widespread motherhood issues such as affordable childcare. This mama is AWESOME, and this interview was so much fun - enjoy! Find Shannon on IG @shanb_mamasqd TikTok @Shanb_mamasqd Information on Mother Forward: motherforward.org
S3 · E13
Oct 7, 2025 · 36 min
Episode 88 - Karen's Story - Alyssa's Wishes: Spreading Love One Rock at a Time
In this deeply moving episode, I sit down with Karen, a mother who tragically lost her 20-year-old daughter, Alyssa, after she took a pain pill that claimed her life. Karen opens up about the immense grief of losing a child as well as struggles around divorce and mental health. But out of heartbreak, Karen has created a beautiful legacy for Alyssa. Through her organization, Alyssa’s Wishes, she paints beautiful rocks with uplifting messages that people spread around the world, bringing light and kindness to strangers. She also started a neighborhood library in Alyssa’s honor, extending her daughter’s love of reading into the community. This conversation is about more than loss—it’s about resilience, creativity, and how even in the darkest times, hope can be shared. Karen’s story is a reminder that small acts of kindness can ripple outward, touching countless lives. You can find out more about Karen & Alyssa's Wishes (and see where all the rocks have been) at: - alyssaswishes.org - IG @alyssaswishes - FB Alyssa's Wishes - X @AlyssasWishes15
S3 · E12
Sep 23, 2025 · 22 min
Episode 87 - Jamie's Story - Creating Beauty from IVF Needles: A Journey Through Infertility & Art
Mamas who have walked the road of infertility hold such a tender place in my heart because of my own personal journey. So when I first came across Jamie and her incredible artwork, I knew I needed to hear her story. In today’s episode, I sit down with Jamie from @glitterenthusiast to talk about how she transformed one of the most difficult chapters of her life—infertility—into something both healing and beautiful. Using the very IVF needles that once represented pain and challenge, Jamie began creating stunning art that became both a form of self-care and a source of hope. She opens up about: How painting helped her process and care for herself during her infertility journey The way she now supports and uplifts others walking through infertility through her artwork Why she believes art has the power to bring healing and connection to everyone And let me just say—her pieces are truly breathtaking. I highly encourage you to go see her work for yourself! glitterenthusiast.com IG @glitterenthusiast FB Glitter Enthusiast

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