Navigating the Default Parent Role: How Modern Moms Can Share Parenting Responsibilities

Episode 13: The Mental Load of the Default Parent (Even in a Great Partnership)

In this episode of The Early-Momming Podcast, Hillary and Erica dive into the complex and often overwhelming role of being the “default parent.” Even in supportive, balanced partnerships, moms often carry the emotional and mental weight of parenting—and it adds up fast.

Join Hillary and Erica as they discuss:

 
• What it means to be the default parent (and how to tell if it’s you)

 
• Why communication is essential to maintaining connection and reducing resentment

 
• How modern dads—Millennial and Gen Z—are showing up differently

 
• Practical strategies to divide responsibilities without constant reminders

 
• The emotional toll of being “in charge” of everything, even when your partner helps

 
• How to reset boundaries and shift expectations in a healthier direction

Whether you're in the baby trenches or chasing toddlers while juggling a job, this conversation will help you feel seen—and give you language and tools to talk about it at home.

Links Mentioned in this Episode:

 
• The Early-Momming Blog

 
• Previous Podcast Episodes

Thank you to our sponsors!

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• The New Mom’s Survival Guide: Labor, Newborn & Postpartum Essentials

 
• The Complete Breastfeeding and Pumping Guide: From Birth to Work

 
• Guide to Dropping Nighttime Feeds

 
• The Early-Momming Cliff Notes: 0–12 Month Feeding and Sleep Schedules

 
• Formula Feeding Guide

 
• Book a 1:1 consult with Hillary and her team — In Charleston, SC or virtually worldwide

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