Ep 27 - What happens if Bonding Doesn’t Happen Right Away?

In this tender and deeply honest episode, Jill and Bobby revisit one of the most emotionally loaded questions new parents often face: “Why don’t I feel connected to my baby yet?” Drawing from a personal excerpt in Jill’s book Mama Outspoken, they open up about the fear, grief, and self-doubt that came with not bonding during pregnancy, and how postpartum experiences didn’t immediately “fix” it. Together, they explore the emotional weight of unmet expectations, the unpredictable nature of birth, and the surprising ways bonding can eventually bloom. Whether you're a parent who's been there or someone supporting one—you’ll leave this episode feeling a little less alone.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• Why not bonding during pregnancy is more common than we talk about
• How Jill’s cesarean birth and breastfeeding challenges shaped her early connection
• The role of COVID isolation and grief in shaping maternal expectations
• Bobby’s reflections on supporting Jill through her doubts and fears
• The emotional pivot from fear of not bonding to being “too bonded”

If you've ever questioned your bond with your baby or wrestled with the pressure to feel a certain way in motherhood—this conversation is for you. Jill and Bobby remind us that connection isn't always instant, and that's okay. Healing happens in layers, and no two journeys look the same. Whether you're in the thick of postpartum or reflecting back, this episode is a powerful permission slip to let go of timelines and lean into grace.

💛 Join Team Mama Outspoken for the Hope is Here 5K! 💛

This June 21st, I'm lacing up my sneakers—not because I’m a runner, but because I believe no mom should walk through postpartum struggles alone. The Hope is Here 5K supports the Postpartum Resource Center of New York, an organization that’s been part of my story and a lifeline for so many families.  

Whether you’re a parent, partner, friend, or supporter, you can make a difference:  
👟 Walk or run with us in-person. Register here https://postpartumny.org/25hope/  
🤝 Donate to support moms in need here https://www.zeffy.com/team/mama-outspoken  
📣 Share this message to help spread hope Every step, every dollar, every share matters.  
💥 Join or support Team Mama Outspoken because hope is here—and together, we can help a mama find it. 💛  

We hope you'll join us next time! —Jill & Bobby  

You are invited to find community with us—check out the Mama Outspoken Village here. To learn more or grab your copy of the book, head here. Remember, you’re not alone in this. One of our favorite resources is the Postpartum Resource Center of New York—you deserve support that sees you.