Motherhood is a sacred role. It’s beautiful, messy, fulfilling, exhausting — often all at once. As a mother, you carry not just your child but the emotional weight of your family, the never-ending to-do list, and the pressure to “get it all right.” But in the middle of the noise and chaos, it’s vital that you feel seen, heard, and supported.
One of the ways I nourish my spirit is through books and podcasts that uplift and encourage me. They help me process my experiences, find humor in hard moments, and feel less alone. I don’t always have time for long, uninterrupted reading sessions, but I make space for inspiration — even in tiny doses.
In this blog, I’m sharing the books and podcasts that have comforted me, challenged me, and reminded me that motherhood is not a solo journey. These voices help me feel grounded and give me the strength to keep showing up — with love and intention.
Why Moms Need Uplifting Content
When you’re a mom, it’s easy to put yourself last. Your days revolve around keeping little humans fed, clean, safe, entertained, and loved. But here’s the truth: you can’t pour from an empty cup.
Just like our kids need stories, laughter, and comforting voices — so do we. Books and podcasts are more than entertainment. They are lifelines. They help me:
- Rediscover my identity beyond “mom”
- Remember I’m not failing when I’m tired
- Get practical tools to parent with calm
- Feel less isolated on hard days
- Dream and grow as a woman
Motherhood doesn’t come with a manual, but these resources are the next best thing.
Books That Nourish My Soul
1. “The Gifts of Imperfection” by Brené Brown
This book is like a warm conversation with a wise friend. Brené Brown talks about shame, vulnerability, and the beauty of embracing our imperfections. I often return to this book when I’m struggling with mom guilt or the need to “do it all.” Her words remind me that worthiness isn’t something we earn — it’s something we already have.
Favorite takeaway: “Let go of who you think you’re supposed to be; embrace who you are.”
2. “Present Over Perfect” by Shauna Niequist
Motherhood sometimes pushes us into performance mode — being productive, presentable, perfect. This book gave me permission to slow down. Shauna shares her story of trading the frantic, always-doing life for a quieter, more present one. It helped me reframe success and taught me that being with my children is more valuable than crossing off every task.
Favorite part: Her description of choosing rest over hustle felt like a mirror to my own struggles.
3. “Simplicity Parenting” by Kim John Payne
This book is packed with gentle wisdom about how simplifying our kids’ lives can lead to calmer, more resilient children. It encouraged me to clear out unnecessary toys, reduce screen time, and slow the pace of our daily routines. The result? Less overstimulation and more peace at home.
A must-read for any mom overwhelmed by modern parenting expectations.
4. “Motherhood So White” by Nefertiti Austin
Powerful and deeply personal, this memoir explores motherhood from the perspective of a single Black adoptive mother. It opened my eyes to how race, gender, and class impact parenting in America. While our experiences are different, I related to her raw honesty and fierce love. This book reminded me how important diverse stories are in parenting spaces.
An important read for moms wanting to raise children with empathy and awareness.
5. “Big Magic” by Elizabeth Gilbert
While not a parenting book, Big Magic speaks directly to the creative woman within me. As a mom, it’s easy to let creativity fall to the side. This book reminded me that expressing myself — through writing, crafting, dreaming — is not selfish. It’s essential.
If you feel lost in the identity of “just a mom,” this book will light your spark again.
Podcasts That Lift Me Up
1. The Motherly Podcast
The Motherly Podcast combines expert advice with authentic motherhood stories. They feature thought leaders, doctors, authors, and everyday moms. Topics range from postpartum recovery to entrepreneurship to gentle parenting.
Why I love it: Every episode feels deeply respectful of the mother’s journey. I often listen during stroller walks or while washing dishes.
2. Unruffled with Janet Lansbury
Janet Lansbury has a calming voice and a no-shame approach to parenting. She specializes in respectful parenting, and her podcast has taught me how to handle toddler tantrums without yelling. She addresses real-life issues like sleep struggles, picky eating, and boundary-setting.
Best for: Moms of toddlers who want practical advice rooted in respect and connection.
3. Risen Motherhood
A faith-based podcast that explores how the gospel applies to everyday motherhood. If you’re a Christian mom, this show will encourage you to view your role through a spiritual lens. It helped me see the beauty in the unseen, repetitive work of raising children.
Perfect for: Those who need gentle, faith-rooted encouragement during exhausting seasons.
4. The Lazy Genius Podcast
Host Kendra Adachi helps you “be a genius about the things that matter and lazy about the things that don’t.” This podcast is a breath of fresh air — full of systems, mindset shifts, and permission to let go of perfection. Topics like “How to Plan Your Day Without Losing Your Mind” and “The Lazy Genius Cleans the House” are so helpful.
Why it works for me: It gives me tools without overwhelming me. Practical + empowering.
5. The Mom Hour
Hosted by two moms with eight kids between them, this podcast feels like chatting with seasoned mom friends. They cover everything from preschool behavior to mom guilt to birthday party burnout. Their conversations are warm, honest, and non-judgmental.
Best part: Their realness. They don’t pretend to have it all together, and that’s what makes them so relatable.
How I Make Time for These
As a busy mom, my time is precious — and often chopped into unpredictable chunks. Still, I’ve found ways to fit reading and listening into my day:
- Morning coffee + audiobook: I play a few minutes while making breakfast.
- During chores: I pop in earbuds while folding laundry or cooking dinner.
- Before bed: I keep a physical book on my nightstand and aim for just 5–10 pages.
- Waiting time: Doctor’s offices, school pickup lines, or nap time are perfect for podcasts.
- Sunday reset: I set aside 20 minutes weekly for “me” content.
It’s not about quantity — it’s about consistency. One chapter or one episode can be enough to shift your mindset for the day.
What These Books and Podcasts Have Given Me
Every mom deserves to feel supported and inspired. These books and podcasts helped me:
- Reconnect with myself
- Parent with more calm and confidence
- Find joy in the everyday moments
- Feel validated in my struggles
- Grow emotionally and spiritually
They’ve helped me become a better version of myself — not just for my child, but for me. And that’s something every mother needs.
My Personal Tip for Other Moms
Start small. Don’t wait for a long, quiet afternoon to dive into a book. Begin with five minutes. Try one podcast episode. Keep a journal to reflect on what resonates with you. You don’t need hours — you just need intention.
You are more than your tasks. You are allowed to dream, rest, learn, and grow.
FAQ – Books and Podcasts for Moms
1. I’m new to motherhood — where should I start?
Start with The Motherly Podcast and Present Over Perfect. Both offer gentle encouragement and are easy to absorb during a newborn’s nap.
2. Are there uplifting books for moms who aren’t religious?
Yes! The Gifts of Imperfection and Big Magic are both secular and empowering without spiritual language.
3. I’m a working mom — will I relate to these?
Absolutely. Many of these resources acknowledge the challenges working moms face. The Lazy Genius especially offers great time-saving strategies.
4. Can I get these books as audiobooks?
Yes, all the books listed are available on Audible, Scribd, or through the free Libby app with a library card. Audiobooks are great for multitasking moms.
5. What if I don’t like reading or podcasts?
That’s okay! Start with short formats — listen to a 10-minute podcast or try a chapter sampler on Kindle. You may be surprised how uplifting it feels once you find the right voice.
