Cycles and Sanctity Podcast | Trust Your Body, Grow In Holiness

128 | Breastfeeding & Returning to Work: Grace for the Journey

This episode is all about the realities mothers face when shifting from maternity leave back to the workplace, while continuing to nourish and bond with their babies.
From talking with HR and coworkers about your needs, to scheduling pumping breaks and handling milk storage, we share real-life advice and encouragement for making this transition smoother. 
You’ll also hear tips on balancing marriage, motherhood, and spiritual well-being—all with humor, understanding, and practical wisdom. 
Whether you’re a new mom or supporting one, this episode offers hope, solidarity, and grace for every step of the journey.
NEXT STEPS:
1. Free Download - 7 Strategies to Return to Work While Breastfeeding2. C&S Episode 22 | Breastfeeding in the Army with Megan Gephart3. U.S. Breastfeeding Committee4. USBC Resource - Breastfeeding and Human Milk5. Book a Discovery Call with Mama Vicki6. Continue the conversation. Join us in our Facebook group7. Subscribe and write a review here

127 | Built For Community - Finding and Offering Breastfeeding Support

Motherhood was never meant to be a solo journey. In this final episode of Breastfeeding Month, we explore the power of community and why support makes all the difference in the breastfeeding journey. 
We share our own stories of finding encouragement, discuss the beauty of older moms guiding younger ones, and offer practical ways to both seek and give support. 
From navigating isolation to building lasting bonds, this conversation is a heartfelt reminder that every mother needs her village - and that together we can thrive.
NEXT STEPS:
1. Get the Breastfeeding Support Package2. Book a Discovery Call with Mama Vicki3. Continue the conversation. Join us in our Facebook group4. Subscribe and write a review here

126 | Grace in the Struggle: Overcoming Breastfeeding Challenges

Breastfeeding is often described as natural, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. It can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face the challenges alone.
In this episode, we explore the emotional and physical challenges new mothers face, including exhaustion, self-doubt, resentment, and cultural pressures. 
We share stories from our own journeys, encouragement that your body was created for this, and practical advice to help you find strength, support, and grace in the middle of the struggle. 
Breastfeeding can be one of the most beautiful yet challenging parts of motherhood. Moms, you are not alone. Your faith and community can carry you through.
NEXT STEPS:
1. Get the Breastfeeding Support Package2. Book a Discovery Call with Mama Vicki3. Continue the conversation. Join us in our Facebook group4. Subscribe and write a review here

125 | The Beauty and Benefits of Breastfeeding

We are continuing our series for International Breastfeeding Month by exploring the profound beauty and numerous benefits of breastfeeding for both mother and child. 
We share personal stories, practical tips, and faith-filled encouragement, highlighting breastfeeding’s nutritional, emotional, spiritual, and developmental advantages. 
From the unique design of breast milk and its properties to its role in fostering maternal intuition, resilience, and emotional connection, our conversation blends science, lived experience, and Catholic values. 
You can expect inspiration, support, and insight for navigating the challenges and joys of this sacred aspect of motherhood.
NEXT STEPS:
1. Free Resource - Benefits of Breastfeeding2. Book a Discovery Call with Mama Vicki3. Continue the conversation. Join us in our Facebook group4. Subscribe and write a review here

124 | Nourishing the Future - Why International Breastfeeding Month Matters

In honor of International Breastfeeding Month and World Breastfeeding Week, we reflect on why breastfeeding matters - on a personal, communal, and even global scale. 
Drawing from our decades of experience as a labor and delivery nurse, lactation consultant, and Catholic mindset coach, we explore breastfeeding as not just a natural and sustainable way to nourish a child, but as a sacred act that mirrors God’s life-giving love.
This episode dives into the environmental benefits of breastfeeding, the role of support and community, and the challenges mothers face in today’s culture. 
We discuss the origins of World Breastfeeding Week, powerful international statistics, meaningful ways communities can help new moms, and the unique Catholic perspective on honoring the vocation of motherhood. 
Journal Question: How has God invited you to give life and love in this season? 
NEXT STEPS:
1. Resources - La Leche League International2. Resources - Global Health Media3. Book a Discovery Call with Mama Vicki4. Continue the conversation. Join us in our Facebook group5. Subscribe and write a review here

123 | How do NFP and Breastfeeding Support Each Other?

We are exploring the beautiful intersection of Natural Family Planning (NFP) and breastfeeding, and how these two practices are not only biologically intertwined but also support women spiritually and emotionally. 
We discuss how both NFP and breastfeeding foster trust - in our bodies, our babies, our spouses, and ultimately, in the Lord.
Using relatable analogies (like learning to ride a bike), this episode unpacks the challenges and triumphs common to both journeys, emphasizing that both are processes that demand patience, faith, and community. 
You can expect practical insights on how breastfeeding naturally supports fertility awareness, the importance of tuning into your body’s cues, and why building a supportive “red tent” community for mothers makes all the difference. 
Journal Question: What has God taught me about my body and His design through either NFP or breastfeeding?
NEXT STEPS:
1. Join The Catholic Approach to Living Well in Midlife2. Continue the conversation. Join us in our Facebook group3. Subscribe and write a review here

122 | National NFP Week with Beth Kopczyk

We wrap up this month's series on NFP with National NFP Week and a special guest, Beth Kopczyk, certified SymptoPro instructor and Theology of the Body enthusiast from the Diocese of Phoenix. 
Together, we explore Beth’s journey from early childhood teaching to empowering teens and adults with NFP, how mindset coaching plays a role in NFP, and why body literacy matters for every woman, single or married. 
You’ll hear real-life stories from the classroom, tips for getting started, and why NFP is a gift from the Church - not just a “requirement.” 
Workshop Announcement - Mama Jane is hosting a free NFP workshop on July 30. Sign up here. 
NEXT STEPS:
1. Learn More about Beth Kopczyk2. Connect with Beth through email at forthekingdomcoaching@gmail.com3. Fertility Awareness Course for Unmarried Women in Phoenix, AZ4. Join Mama Jane's free NFP webinar on July 305. Continue the conversation. Join us in our Facebook group6. Subscribe and write a review here

121 | How Is NFP True Freedom?

Do you wonder how we have true freedom in marriage through Natural Family Planning (NFP)? This week, we unpack how NFP isn’t about restriction - it’s about choosing the good for each other, building virtue, and trusting God’s design.
We explore why NFP is good news for couples seeking unity, trust, and authentic love and how it’s rooted in virtues like self-mastery, obedience, and trust in God.
With relatable examples, gentle challenges, and encouragement to explore the Catechism, this conversation reframes what freedom really means in married life. 
Whether you’re a seasoned NFP couple, just starting out, or feeling unsure, we invite you to re-examine what “freedom” really looks like in marriage - and how NFP can lead to deeper intimacy, unity, and spiritual growth. 
Journal Question: In what ways has practicing NFP revealed what true freedom means in my marriage?
You can still register for The Catholic Approach to Living Well in Midlife. This group coaching program started on July 7. It's not too late. Join today! 
NEXT STEPS:
1. Join The Catholic Approach to Living Well in Midlife2. Continue the conversation. Join us in our Facebook group3. Subscribe and write a review here

120 | Is NFP Catholic Contraception?

In this episode, we tackle the big questions about Natural Family Planning (NFP) - addressing whether it’s truly different from contraception and how intention and mindset play a crucial role. 
We unpack Catholic teaching, share personal experiences, and offer encouragement for couples navigating NFP. 
With relatable honesty and faith, we explore how NFP can strengthen marriages and spiritual lives, and remind listeners that openness to life is more than just following the rules - it's about trust, communication, and growing closer to God as a couple.
Journal Question: What is the intention behind our use of NFP, and how is God inviting us to trust Him more?
You can still register for The Catholic Approach to Living Well in Midlife. This group coaching program started on July 7. It's not too late. Join today! 
NEXT STEPS:
1. Join The Catholic Approach to Living Well in Midlife2. Continue the conversation. Join us in our Facebook group3. Subscribe and write a review here

119 | Navigating NFP in Midlife

This week, we're tackling the often-overlooked challenges of practicing Natural Family Planning (NFP) during midlife and perimenopause. 
From sudden cycle confusion and unpredictable charting, to shifting emotions and changes in intimacy, we share personal experiences and practical strategies for navigating this “new season” as hormones and family dynamics evolve.
If you’ve ever wondered how to handle NFP when your body and life are changing, you’ll find comfort and solidarity here. 
We offer wisdom, humor, and encouragement, reminding us that midlife is a bridge to new growth, and you don’t have to walk it alone. Tune in for honest talk, spiritual insight, and a supportive community ready to journey with you.
Journal Question: “What is God teaching me about trust and surrender through this season of my fertility?”
Don't forget to register for The Catholic Approach to Living Well in Midlife. This group coaching program starts on July 7. Join today! 
NEXT STEPS:
1. Register for The Catholic Approach to Living Well in Midlife2. Continue the conversation. Join us in our Facebook group3. Subscribe and write a review here