172. Dr. Emily Jacobs: Breaking the Motherhood Martyrdom Cycle

INHABIT with Alessia Citro

In this powerful episode of INHABIT, host Alessia Citro sits down with Dr. Emily Jacobs, a former nurse turned leadership coach and founder of Empowered Moms, for a raw and honest conversation about breaking generational cycles and redefining motherhood. From challenging the "busy badge of honor" mentality to practical advice about kids' activities and birthday parties, Dr. Jacobs shares vulnerable insights and actionable strategies for mothers who want to pursue their dreams while raising children. Whether you're struggling with boundaries, battling mom guilt, or just seeking permission to prioritize yourself, this conversation offers both validation and practical wisdom for creating a life you love - even if it means disappointing others along the way.

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I’d love to connect with you! DM me on the ‘gram at @alessiacitro__

TIMESTAMPS:

• [02:06] - Introduction of guest Dr. Emily Jacobs - former 20+ year doctorate level nurse turned leadership/empowerment coach and founder of Empowered Moms

• [02:30] - Discussion of how seeing impact on others fuels motivation to keep going as an author/speaker

• [04:01] - Conversation about balancing motherhood and business ownership, managing overwhelm

• [05:14] - Emily shares story about watching her own mother's dreams die at motherhood and the impact it had

• [11:48] - Important discussion about breaking generational cycles by apologizing to our children

• [15:47] - Redefining self-care beyond luxury/pampering to essential well-being practices

• [30:36] - Tips for managing busy schedules and activities with kids, including Sunday check-ins with partner

• [37:07] - Practical advice about handling kids' activities and managing expectations (including pro tip: don't tell kids plans too far in advance)

• [41:16] - Strategies for handling birthday party invites, including coordinating with other parents

• [44:08] - Closing message about connecting with your inner child and remembering who you were at age 7

• [45:32] - Information about Empowered Moms company, annual October event in Michigan, and monthly networking opportunities

Connect with Dr. Emily @dremilyjacobs and sign up for her live events and newsletter at empoweredmoms.co

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Get Dr. Emily’s book, Live Your Life For You (Not Your Mom)

Get Alessia’s book, Higher Self Habits

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TRANSCRIPT

KEYWORDS: generational cycles, self-care practices, family communication issues, coping mechanisms, breaking generational patterns, emotional impact on children, boundaries in relationships, self-respect, self-responsibility, mentoring mothers, motherhood challenges, personal growth, breaking old cycles, vulnerability, parenting differences, apologizing in parenting, motherhood and entrepreneurship, personal well-being, community support for moms, generational trauma, redefining self-care, personal journey, motherhood sacrifices, spiritual signs, writing about family issues, grief and acceptance, societal expectations on women, managing children's activities, balancing work and parenting, prioritizing personal needs, competitive busyness