Episode Transcript
[00:00:01] Speaker A: Welcome to Life Reviewed, a podcast by Hope House Colorado, where we invite you into conversation with teenage moms and the people who champion them. These stories of struggle, overcoming, and perspective shifts will challenge you to review life as you've known it. One story, one person, one conversation at a time.
Welcome back to Life Reviewed. I'm Jamie Barnes, the empower program manager. Pleasure. I've been on the podcast a couple times now. One with Lisa, Stephen, and another one with alumni Jackie.
Please feel free to go back and listen to those. They were great. But today, I am here with one of our amazing alumni, who I'm pretty close with, and I love this girl dearly. I'm going to cry right now even talking about it. Maddie, why don't you go ahead and introduce yourself to us?
[00:00:56] Speaker B: Okay. Hi, I'm Maddie. I'm a Hope House alumni, and I'm excited to be on the podcast today.
[00:01:02] Speaker A: Yay. We're excited to have you here.
Um, okay, we'll just. We're gonna jump right into it. We're gonna get going. Yeah. Uh, why don't you just share with us a little bit about your life before Hope House and maybe how you found Hope House, how you ended up here with us.
[00:01:17] Speaker B: Yeah, sure. So before Hope House, I had my son Gavin. So I got pregnant when I was in high school. I was 18, and I knew about Hope House, but I didn't know everything it offered. I kind of thought maybe it was just like a residential thing, and I wasn't sure if I qualified, so I didn't check it out personally until my son was about 18 months old, and a friend, Jade, actually was talking about an open house. So I kind of talked to her about it and figured out that I could check it out. And on the day that I was coming to check out Hope House, I actually found out I was pregnant with my second child, Gracie. My daughter Gracie.
[00:01:59] Speaker A: Love her. I was looking at a photo the other day. We were taking down some old photos of alumni, and I saw one of you with Gavin. Oh, my gosh. He was so little.
[00:02:10] Speaker B: Yes.
[00:02:11] Speaker A: How old is he now?
[00:02:12] Speaker B: He is eight now.
[00:02:13] Speaker A: Okay. Oh, my gosh. And you were holding him in your arms, and I just thought, no way was he ever that little. To see him running around now and he's all grown up.
[00:02:22] Speaker B: I know.
It's like he grew up here. Like, he has so many good memories here, and I love it.
[00:02:28] Speaker A: Oh, so you started with Hope House when we were in the old resource center? Yeah, over in our sketchy little warehouse, which I refer to in Another.
Another podcast how the moms thought it was. It felt a little creepy because we were just in this, like, back storage room. I don't know. What were your first thoughts of Hope House when you came?
[00:02:48] Speaker B: Well, it's crazy now, like, looking back, because we have this nice building, and, like, everything is just so perfect. But honestly, I loved it the same. Like, I felt like the feeling of it was, you know, just so welcoming and loving, and, like, the building didn't matter as much because we were all together, like, the same idea, this community. And so I feel like it was beautiful, and I think it's even more beautiful that that was, like, our roots, and now we're growing, because even when we look back, like, it's such a special time, and. And we have this nice building that we can appreciate now. But, like, looking back, it's just a good time. You know what I mean?
[00:03:23] Speaker A: Yeah. I love the words that you are using because you're calling it, like, we and our. And my. Because Hope House is as much yours as it is mine and all of our teen moms that come here, but that's just, like, the ownership that you have in it because you've been with Hope House for so long.
So you started when you were 18. How old are you now?
[00:03:44] Speaker B: I had to think about that for a while.
[00:03:47] Speaker A: I quit counting after 34.
[00:03:49] Speaker B: Honestly, the closer I get to 30, I am 27 right now.
[00:03:53] Speaker A: Yeah. So Hope has a long time. And now being alumni, after you turn 25, you become alumni. And we don't serve you in the same ways, but you've been very much involved with us, doing all the things. And we get to see you on Wednesday nights when you bring Gavin and Gracie for whiz kids, which we offer to our older moms.
But also, I like to refer to you as you are part of our staff. Like, you are honorary staff. Yes.
[00:04:20] Speaker B: I love it.
[00:04:20] Speaker A: I know. Okay, so let's go back to talking about when you first started at Hope House.
What kinds of things were you doing with us or what programs were you involved in?
[00:04:29] Speaker B: Yeah. So I feel like once I started, I really hit the ground running.
I was in college at that time doing nursing prereqs, but I kind of just didn't know what I was doing.
None of my family had really gone to college. My mom was actually in college at the same time as me, but we're just, like, figuring it out. So I started taking all the classes here at Hope House while I was getting my prereqs, and I also started studying Here, which was so vital to my career because I was able to know that my kids were safe in another environment with loving people while I was working on myself. So it was, like. Felt like we were both working on ourselves and we were growing as a family.
I also did. Let's see.
There's so many.
[00:05:11] Speaker A: I know.
[00:05:12] Speaker B: Financial literacy.
Let's see.
What else did I do?
[00:05:19] Speaker A: You've done it all. Parenting classes.
[00:05:20] Speaker B: Parenting classes. Oh, I loved those. Those helped me so much.
[00:05:23] Speaker A: Yeah. Were you there when Melinda was teaching the parenting classes?
Quite a while ago.
[00:05:28] Speaker B: I miss her. She's listening to this.
[00:05:32] Speaker A: Me too. Melinda, we miss you.
But then you. We also had our healthy relationships classes. Did you take any of those?
[00:05:40] Speaker B: Yes. I took that story of Hope, which I feel like was kind of like a branch off of that. That was really cool.
I feel like I took literally any class that I could, because I've seen it as such an opportunity to grow, and that was really important to me.
[00:05:55] Speaker A: One of the cool things about you, too, is you were always one of the most warm and welcoming people with the moms, because you were a mom here, and you just felt comfortable and knew where things were and that kind of stuff. You would always welcome the moms in. You're always the first one to say, hi, how are you? I'm Maddie. And you would just sit down and introduce yourself or encourage a mom.
I still see that in you. And I'm like, oh, I miss Maddie. Okay, so you did all the classes, but what was, like, the main thing? I'm trying to leave it. What. What was the main reason you were always coming in? What were you always doing?
[00:06:31] Speaker B: Totally. So I was always coming in to study and go to school. So when I actually started going to nursing school, we were in Covid, which was a hard time for everybody, and I had a lot of my nursing classes, virtually would come, and I had a little area that we call my office, because I was here every day. I probably had as much hours as the staff.
[00:06:54] Speaker A: You did.
[00:06:55] Speaker B: You.
[00:06:55] Speaker A: I would expect to see you every morning. We show up, we chitchat like, well, I'm going to my office. And you'd go into the study room and close the door.
[00:07:03] Speaker B: Yeah. So even when I wasn't in school or, like, in my class, I would be studying for my.
For my classes. And, Yeah, I remember sometimes, like, my class would get over and then hope. I was closing in, like, five minutes. So I would be here, like, open to close.
But I. I was just thinking back to it this morning. It was, like, such A hard time in my life, but now that I look back, I'm like, it was such a beautiful moment. And sometimes I wish I could go back and just realize, like, I don't know, it was. It was so beautiful. It didn't feel like it in the time, but it was such a moment of growth. And, like, I appreciate that time now that I'm on the other side of it. And anytime I'm feeling, like, lack of motivation, I think back to that time. Like.
Like, look what I did, you know, Like, I can do anything. I did that, and I can keep going.
[00:07:49] Speaker A: Yes. I remember it might make me tear up, too. There were days where you would sit at my desk and just tear up and talk about all you had going on, because not only are you in nursing school, which is super hard, but then you've got these two littles at home that are relying on you, and you just felt so torn sometimes.
[00:08:08] Speaker B: Yeah, I did. And there were so many times that I wanted to give up. I remember Gracie actually asked me. She was like, mom, mom, can you please just quit? And I. It was like, I think my last quarter of nursing school, I'm like, gracie, we have done it this far. We are almost there. And I'm so glad I didn't, because now I'm able to provide a way better life for them. And I love my job so much, so, so deeply, and I feel very passionate about it. And I think that's great to teach my kids, because when we talk about when they're growing up, I always tell them, I don't care what you do. I just want you to love what you do. And I feel like that going to my job, like, I am so lucky to get to do the work that I am.
So I just hope that for them, too.
[00:08:49] Speaker A: I know. And that had to break your heart, though, to have your child say, just quit. And, yeah, a piece of you is like, maybe I should.
[00:08:56] Speaker B: Yeah, there was definitely those thoughts. Like, yeah, it just made me feel like they needed me and I couldn't be there 100%, but I did what I could, and we got through that time of life, and now we're on the other side.
[00:09:10] Speaker A: Well, and you modeled it for him, too, because I do remember you telling me, too. There were nights where you and Gavin would be sitting and doing homework together.
[00:09:16] Speaker B: Yeah.
[00:09:17] Speaker A: So he saw you putting in that hard work. You were determined.
[00:09:22] Speaker B: Yeah, they always saw me studying. I'm like an overstudier, so I have to study a lot to feel confident.
But, yeah, they seen me putting in so many hours. And I know one day, like, they'll remember that, and they'll use that in their life for sure.
[00:09:39] Speaker A: I mean, I remember helping you study, and you had me reading words, and I'm like, I don't. Maddie, I can't even say this word. What?
[00:09:47] Speaker B: I love studying. Join me.
[00:09:48] Speaker A: Yeah.
All right. So then those were. How many years were you and where were you going? To college.
[00:09:57] Speaker B: Yeah, so I kind of bounced around at first because I was at Red Rocks when I started.
I was getting my prereqs there, but originally I thought I was going to apply to their nursing program. However, as I went on, it kind of found out that it wasn't as good of a fit for me because there was only one start date every year.
So. So then I started, like, doing some medical assisting classes, and then I just kept getting, like, little things. Like, I got my associate's degree. I was finishing up my medical assisting. Um, and then I went to Front Range a little bit to finish classes faster. I was always trying to see, like, what route is going to get me there the fastest. How can I, like, get the most out of this? So then I went to Front Range. I was actually going to Red Rocks and Front Range at the same time. I'm just a crazy girl.
[00:10:41] Speaker A: You were?
[00:10:41] Speaker B: Yeah.
[00:10:41] Speaker A: I don't think I knew that.
[00:10:43] Speaker B: Yeah, it was like, co enrolled. I was always trying to figure out, like, different ways to do it.
[00:10:46] Speaker A: Well, I knew that you were very resourceful, and you were always like, okay, how can I best use my financial aid money? And. But I didn't know you were doing both at the same time.
[00:10:54] Speaker B: Yeah, that was crazy. And then eventually I found out that I wanted to go to Denver College of Nursing because they had, like, rolling start dates, so that was perfect for me.
And it was a little bit quicker than some of the other programs because they didn't take breaks in between. So then I went to Denver College of Nursing, and that's where I graduated with my bachelor's.
[00:11:14] Speaker A: Yay.
And then graduation day.
Do you want to talk about that at all? Oh, my gosh. I got to be there, too.
I feel like I've done this journey, too. I should be a nurse also.
[00:11:26] Speaker B: No, literally.
[00:11:28] Speaker A: But also in that time. Like, we'll come back to that in just a second. In all of that, I sat and watched you, and exactly what you said, Maddie. You pushed through on those really hard days. You. You didn't give up. We would have some pretty tough conversations where we both were crying, but also, you kind of Became my friend, too, because you're the kind of person that you want to know how I'm doing as well. And even though I was here to help you and support you, because I was the college and career coordinator at the time, you've supported me too. I mean, I did some life with you as well. And now I can say that now we are friends, and I just look forward to every moment with you. But I've done this journey with you, and so I feel honored and blessed to get to watch you and where you're at.
So it was really a great moment for me. Probably better for you. Obviously, you were graduating, but to be sitting there and watching you.
I bawled. I bawled. And I know your mom and your dad bald. And I do. I feel a part of your family because your mom has always been so welcoming and just like, no, do this with us. But anyway, okay, let's go back to graduation day.
[00:12:44] Speaker B: Going off of what you said. No, I really agree with everything you said. I feel like we built, like, this beautiful relationship, and you were a mentor me to me, but you're also, like, such a good friend. And I actually only had, like, a certain amount of tickets to my graduation. I was like, jamie is gonna be there. That's like, one person has to be there.
But I feel like I have such a good role model to look up to from you. And I feel like, like, you said, you were there for me, but we were always just collaborating and, like, you're just such a special person in my life. I on the top people of my life. You're definitely, like, up there, and I just appreciate you and love you so much.
[00:13:20] Speaker A: Same. Ditto. I love you, too.
I remember that day, like, being one of just, like, pure enjoyment. And then what was really cool to me was afterwards, like, watching you walk across and do was the pin ceremony that day.
[00:13:35] Speaker B: Yeah. Yeah, they did on the same day.
[00:13:36] Speaker A: Too, with the pinning. But, yeah. I remember watching Gracie bringing you the flowers afterwards. Have you looked at those pictures recently?
[00:13:45] Speaker B: Yes, I have it on my wall. And, like, I just look at it every night, especially after a long shift, and I just think of, like, how far I've came and, like, how much this means to me, and it's just so beautiful. But, like, she was just crying, too, and he was so sweet.
[00:14:00] Speaker A: So proud. Like, she just was so. Just beaming. Both of the kids were Gavin's a little more.
[00:14:06] Speaker B: Yeah.
[00:14:08] Speaker A: Behind the scenes kind of kid.
[00:14:09] Speaker B: Totally.
[00:14:10] Speaker A: Gracie's very much front and center.
[00:14:12] Speaker B: That's, like, the best way to describe Them.
[00:14:14] Speaker A: I was like, oh, they're so sweet. I love them.
[00:14:16] Speaker B: Yeah. But it was such a beautiful day and, like, just so rewarding for all the hard work that I had put in, and just such a beautiful start to what I knew, because I already knew I was. Had got the job as a labor and delivery nurse. I was like, this is everything I wish for. Because as you know, like, that's the only thing I wanted to do. Like, I was set on that, and I was going to make that happen no matter what.
So I was so excited to start my career that I love now.
[00:14:43] Speaker A: Yay.
One other thing I want to bring up was sometimes we had conversations around Jesus, and I would tell you how I was praying for you, and you had other things that you did. Do you want to share anything about that little journey, too?
[00:15:00] Speaker B: Yeah, totally.
So I feel like I've always been religious, but I haven't really. I hadn't really gone to church. Like, it wasn't, like, my main priority or anything. It was kind of just on the back, back burner.
But recently I got baptized, which was really exciting.
And Jamie was able to be there because she's, like, one of my not only mentors in life, but, like, spiritually. Like, I feel like you and Lisa, kp. I always joke that Lisa, KP would be like my godmom. And, like, you're just like, my close friend. And so I wanted you guys to be there so bad. And it was so special because you guys came up to the pool with me and you were praying for me. So I think that's been a beautiful journey as well. Like, now that my life is more stable, like, now I can focus on my relationship with God, which could have been the whole time, but life is hard, and whenever, you know, you can get closer to God, it's just beautiful.
[00:15:52] Speaker A: Yes. Well, you had lots of people praying for you because all of us were here praying for you all along the way. So that was just a huge thing to be there that day, too. And I know KP just felt it that you invited us and that you made that decision, so yay. Okay. Thanks for sharing.
[00:16:10] Speaker B: Of course. Anytime.
[00:16:11] Speaker A: You know I'm an open.
I know you'll talk about anything. Yeah, we can talk for hours about nothing.
[00:16:16] Speaker B: Really.
[00:16:17] Speaker A: I love it.
Okay, we're going to take a little break, and then we'll be back to talk about. What are you up to now?
[00:16:24] Speaker B: Awesome.
Hi, everyone. It's Celeste, development coordinator at Hope House Colorado. We have an awesome group of 233 champions called our Bedrock Builders who donate monthly gifts, and we would love for you to join. This group is super special to our moms because it provides them stable support through an income stream that they know they can always count on. If you'd like to become a monthly donor, please visit hopehousecolorado.org donate now and make your recurring donation today. Thank you so much for empowering our teen moms.
[00:16:57] Speaker A: All right, welcome back. Maddie and I are sitting here just chit chatting away about catching up on all the wonderful things that's going on in her life.
So before our little break, we talked a little bit about what brought you to Hope House.
And now you are a part of Hope House forever and ever because we're never gonna let you go.
[00:17:16] Speaker B: Good.
[00:17:17] Speaker A: Yes. Oh, we forgot to talk about, too, that you also got your own cards. Your own.
[00:17:24] Speaker B: Oh, yes.
[00:17:25] Speaker A: Do you call those all of a sudden, business cards? Business. Thank you.
Business cards. Yes. You had to get your own business cards because you were talking about us so much in the community where, like, Maddie needs her own business cards.
[00:17:36] Speaker B: That was so cool. I'm like, everybody, look at these cards. I got. I'm so excited.
[00:17:40] Speaker A: Yes. They have your name. Their.
Yeah. But let's talk a little bit about your kids until we get in. We'll. We'll get to where you're at today, but let's. Yeah, let's work our way there first. Share a little bit more about your kids. You've talked about two of them, but.
[00:17:55] Speaker B: Yeah, I also have a new baby. He's eight months. His name's Gian.
So that was a very exciting addition to our family.
Gracie had been telling everyone we were having a baby for a long time because she really wanted a sibling. So we gave her a sibling. And she loves him. And Gavin loves him too. But, you know, like we said, he's more of a behind the scenes kind of guy. So it's been fun having three. It's definitely a new dynamic that we have to learn, but we're always growing, and so it's just been beautiful to have him. He's like, the perfect addition.
[00:18:28] Speaker A: Oh, so sweet. I know that your kids kind of spilled the secret before.
[00:18:34] Speaker B: Yeah.
[00:18:35] Speaker A: I think you were ready or you wanted to do it yourself. But I was sitting with them at dinner at Whiz Kids. Before they were going to go was study.
And I just remember they looked at me and I can't remember which one.
[00:18:49] Speaker B: I'm sure it was Gracie.
[00:18:49] Speaker A: I was like, probably Gracie. That was like, did you know my mom's pregnant? She's gonna have a baby. And I was like, were you supposed to tell me that?
[00:18:56] Speaker B: Yes. She's just like me. She's an open book. She's like, everybody, listen, I have something to say.
Yeah. It was just so exciting, and I think they gotta be a huge part of it. Like, Gracie gotta be in the delivery.
Gavin had a choice, but he was not up for that.
Um, just his personality type. But we actually didn't know what we were having, and Gracie was able to announce the gender, and it was just so cool.
Um, and I remember after delivery, she looked at me and she's like, you are the strongest, bravest girl in the whole world. And she was so sweet. And I just feel like she learned a lot from it, and it was just so beautiful to have her there.
[00:19:32] Speaker A: It didn't scare her off from having her own kids someday? Well, I feel like that would be partially.
[00:19:37] Speaker B: Maybe she. Now she says that she's not going to have kids, but it's because she wants to have a bed all to herself. And many other reasons, but she mainly just wants to do her own thing.
[00:19:49] Speaker A: A bed all to herself.
[00:19:50] Speaker B: Yeah.
[00:19:51] Speaker A: That's so funny.
[00:19:52] Speaker B: I know.
[00:19:53] Speaker A: Okay, so you graduated college and you're still raising your babies, but you. You talked a little bit, a little bit about the job that you got.
[00:20:02] Speaker B: Yeah.
[00:20:03] Speaker A: Share. Share with us.
[00:20:04] Speaker B: Oh, yeah. Sorry if. Sorry. I totally should go back for a second. We kind of been mentioning Gavin and Gracie, but I haven't really fully introduced them. But so, yeah, Gav's eight and he's just really into, like, playing video games. He's just a chill guy, you know, He's a simple man.
[00:20:19] Speaker A: He's so kind.
[00:20:21] Speaker B: He's so kind. He is so kind and caring. Oh, and I have to share this.
He just got, for the second year in a row, got a growth award from school.
So he's just been growing. Like, at first, we were struggling with reading with him, and he just really didn't like school. But at his last conference, I was excited, expecting, like, you know, the same talk. And they were just. His teacher is great this year. And he was like, I'm so proud of him. He's grown so much. He's right where he needs to be. And I'm just, like, crying in the conference. I'm like, this is so amazing. Like, we've came so far.
[00:20:52] Speaker A: Yeah.
[00:20:52] Speaker B: So I'm so proud of him. But, I mean, other than school, he's just a kind little soul and doesn't need much. Just wants to, like, hugs and be at home. And I could ask him to go to Disney, and he'd be like, I want to stay home. He's just simple. He just doesn't need all this extra stuff, you know?
And then Gracie, she's my crazy girl.
She's 6, and she's just. Just like me. Me and my mom were laughing this morning because there is no one more like me in the world than Gracie. In many ways. Great. And in some ways, I'm definitely getting a little bit of karma.
As my mom's laughing, she's like, ha, ha.
[00:21:28] Speaker A: You get what you get.
[00:21:29] Speaker B: Yeah, totally. So she is just so outgoing. She's a great friend.
She's kind. She's fashionable. She's just.
[00:21:37] Speaker A: She is. The other night, she had on the cut.
Did you pick those out or did your mom? And she's like, me. And they match the top too. And I was like, yeah, they do.
[00:21:46] Speaker B: No, I never get to pick out their outfits. They. They're their own little people. So she wears whatever. Actually, today she's wearing shorts because sometimes it's not worth the fight. So she's very, very passionate about what she wants to do, and that's gonna serve her well in so many ways. And she's just so sweet and kind, and I just love them all so much. But we can talk about my job now.
[00:22:08] Speaker A: Wait, you gotta talk about the baby.
[00:22:10] Speaker B: I did just.
[00:22:11] Speaker A: Oh, you shared. You share a little bit about him.
[00:22:13] Speaker B: I mean, he's just great.
[00:22:14] Speaker A: He's so little. He's still little. You don't have as much to say.
[00:22:17] Speaker B: Yeah.
[00:22:18] Speaker A: Talk about him.
[00:22:19] Speaker B: I feel like he's gonna be a little crazy man, too. He's already doing so much and follows them everywhere, tries to catch up with them, so.
[00:22:27] Speaker A: Oh, he's gonna try to keep up with them. Yeah, you're gonna have your hands full.
[00:22:30] Speaker B: I know, but he seems really calm. Yeah, he's calm, but he's very loud, and he. He likes everyone to look at him. And I think he's going to be more similar to, like, Gracie's personality type.
[00:22:42] Speaker A: Yeah.
[00:22:43] Speaker B: Yeah.
[00:22:43] Speaker A: And he's third, so he has to be louder.
[00:22:45] Speaker B: Yeah.
[00:22:45] Speaker A: To be seen and noticed.
[00:22:47] Speaker B: That's true. He's such a third child, though. Like, he just has to go with the flow, and so he does. And he does well with that.
[00:22:55] Speaker A: I have three also, so it's. I totally get it. That third one, you're just like, come on, here we go. Yeah, you're going to sleep on the soccer field, honestly. Yeah. Do whatever your siblings are doing.
[00:23:05] Speaker B: So true. And, you know they'll be just so much more adaptable and like their own little person, but they know how to go with the flow.
[00:23:13] Speaker A: Yeah.
[00:23:13] Speaker B: Yeah.
[00:23:14] Speaker A: Okay. So, yeah, let's talk about your job.
[00:23:16] Speaker B: Yeah.
[00:23:16] Speaker A: What are you. Well, first off, share how you got to where you're at. I mean, not the schooling, but the decision to do exactly what you're doing and that kind of thing.
[00:23:25] Speaker B: Yeah. So all along, I knew that it was labor and delivery, but I did my capstone in postpartum. However, my nurse that I was, like, following is a transition or admit nurse, which means they go to the delivery and they care for the baby right after.
So I did get an offer after capstone from them as well. And for a while, I felt, like, kind of torn. But now looking back, I'm like, why was it even a question for me? Because that's great. But, like, I knew all along it was labor and delivery.
So it's funny, looking back, like, something that was such a hard decision for you, but now you're in the moment, you're like, why? Why was that even a hard decision for me? You know, that's kind of a cool.
[00:24:10] Speaker A: Thought, because I do remember being a part of that decision.
Not that I helped you at all, but you came to me and said, and it's interesting to think that in the moment, I should have just been like, maddie, what are you thinking?
But you don't know, because in the moment, you're like, well, this did open up. Is this the route I'm supposed to go?
[00:24:30] Speaker B: Totally.
[00:24:30] Speaker A: Because I do remember that was a really hard decision for you, because you're like, well, I. I do love the babies, and I really want to help them, but also, I love the moms, and I really want to help them.
[00:24:40] Speaker B: Totally. Yeah. And I don't know. I don't remember why it was such a hard decision, but I think I take every decision so seriously, and I like to think of, like, every, you know, option and every way it could go. But I. I knew in my heart, I think, it was labor and delivery. And the postpartum nurses do great work, so I'm not.
One is better than the other. But, like, for me, personally, I just feel like labor and delivery is just, like, where my heart is, and, like, it's just such a spark in my soul. Like, I love it so much. Even on the hard days, I'm like, I am so lucky I get to do this job. I remember just thinking, like, am I ever gonna make it to this job? Like, can I actually do this? Like, all the Time. And even some days now, like, I. I feel, you know, a little not confident. And I just think of, like, everything that I've done to get to this point, and, like, God is leading me. My soul is there. So, like, I can do it. But I think that I am so lucky to be in that moment with a mom in the most vulnerable state, most beautiful day of their life, you know?
[00:25:45] Speaker A: Yeah.
[00:25:45] Speaker B: Like, that is something you just can't take for granted.
[00:25:48] Speaker A: And they are very lucky to have you. I can't even imagine. Part of me wants to get pregnant and have a baby just so you could be my nurse.
[00:25:55] Speaker B: Okay, let's go.
[00:25:57] Speaker A: I don't know that my husband will be on my board with that.
[00:25:59] Speaker B: Right.
Maybe you could just come shadow me one day at work.
[00:26:03] Speaker A: But I know you are so. A lot of our moms come to Hope House and say, I want to be a nurse, because their very first experience with somebody being kind and caring to them was a labor and delivery nurse. Some of them have had really bad situations, but so sad. Yes. But a lot of them have somebody that was there supporting them and being kind to them. And then you went. You actually are doing that, and you're loving on all of these women. They're so lucky to have you.
[00:26:31] Speaker B: I feel so lucky. And I'm just. It's such a beautiful job. Like, I get to do so much. I get to, you know, talk them through all their options, make sure they're a part of their plan of care, just know what's available for them. I love birth preferences. Like, I love making sure that they're able to get the birth they want as long as it's what they're asking is safe.
And then just finally seeing that baby come on their chest is just the most beautiful moment to see, like, the mom and the dad or birthing partner's reaction is just. Oh, it just makes. It gives me goosebumps. And I play a little. Not all the nurses do this, but I. I found this way to play a little birthday song at every delivery, which is so fun when the dad's cutting the cord, and I'm just like, this is like, what?
[00:27:14] Speaker A: Kind of like, happy birthday to you or.
[00:27:17] Speaker B: Yeah, it's like a little thing on our monitor. A travel nurse. Nurse taught me it. But, like, you'd put it on, and it's like, happy birthday. And I'm just like, yes, another birthday party.
[00:27:25] Speaker A: Oh, my gosh. How neat is that? I didn't get that with mine.
[00:27:29] Speaker B: I know. It's. Well, you're just Finding it out.
[00:27:31] Speaker A: You make it so special.
[00:27:33] Speaker B: Thank you. I love it so much.
[00:27:35] Speaker A: And just your calming demeanor, too. So in that process, I mean, if you haven't had a child, it's scary and a little unknown, like, what the heck is happening? No. To have somebody who does know, you know, what's coming and that kind of thing. But you're being kind and you're caring.
[00:27:51] Speaker B: Totally.
[00:27:52] Speaker A: I remember my labor and delivery nurse, and I even went back after the fact and apologized to her because I think I got kind of mean.
[00:27:58] Speaker B: Yeah.
[00:27:59] Speaker A: My epidural wore off, and I was like, what is happening?
[00:28:02] Speaker B: Yeah.
[00:28:02] Speaker A: She's like, no, you were fine. You no need to apologize.
[00:28:05] Speaker B: That's so funny. Yeah. Some people, like, I'm so sorry. I'm like, oh, you're. I know what you're going through, and I think that's what helps me too. Like, I've been there as a mom, and I am a nurse, so, like, I can see from both sides, like, you are totally fine. Whatever you say is totally fine. We're just gonna get through this and have a delivery.
[00:28:22] Speaker A: I know. Oh, you're the best.
Well, not only that, so you're a labor and delivery nurse, but you.
You have become one of the biggest advocates for Hope House being a labor and delivery nurse. So tell. Tell us a little bit about that, too.
[00:28:37] Speaker B: I'm so excited to talk about this part.
So I do have, you know, not as many delivering at Rose. I don't have as many teen moms, but when they do come through, I am so excited, and I always am like, okay, let me. Let me talk to her. Let me just share something about Hope House. Even if, you know, she doesn't want to do it, at least let me just put a little bit in her ear to just, like, help point her towards some resources. Because when you are in that, like, moment, it is so scary. Regardless, like we said, it's scary for everyone.
[00:29:07] Speaker A: Yeah.
[00:29:08] Speaker B: But being, like, younger, being a teen mom, it is so scary. And you're finally at that delivery part, and you're like, I can't go back. This is about to happen. My life is about to change. So I love to just go and tell them, like, hey, like, I'm so proud of you. Like, you are doing all the right things. I, like, just share a little bit of my story because I don't want them to feel alone. And sometimes you do. You feel like your life is over, and really, it's just the beginning, you know? So I like to go in there, support them, try and go to their delivery if I'm there.
But I give them the little. My little card that we were talking about.
[00:29:41] Speaker A: Your business card.
[00:29:43] Speaker B: Yeah. And then I give them the pamphlet has a QR code. So sometimes, like, if they get an epidural, I'm like, this is a perfect time. Like, go check it out. Like, as you're. As you're.
[00:29:52] Speaker A: Give me your phone. Let me do it for you.
[00:29:54] Speaker B: Just please, just trust me. And I always tell them, I promise you, like, you're going to feel like it's too good to be true. Like, the people are, like, so nice. You're like, how are these people this nice? But it's like, it's real. Like. Like, the people here are just so loving, and there's so many resources, and I. It's hard because I only have, like, a little snippet to tell them, like, about Hope House, you know, because I'm obviously. I don't want to, like, disturb their. Like, you know, what they're doing. They're laboring. They're working really hard. They need rest. But I'm just like, let me just tell you just a little bit about. And I share a little bit of my story, and it's just so cool. And I know, like, some of the moms have came here. Like, Jordan, one of the girls that I delivered, she ended up coming here. And it's just such a beautiful moment to know that I could have possibly helped them change their life.
And I wish that I would have found out about Hope House in the hospital.
So that's something I'm trying to get going, and I'm talking to the team about is I really want. And it's kind of in the process, but I really want to make a video geared towards healthcare workers, because if we can get the moms at the hospital, we can change so many lives. Like, we got to look at the common, like, thing is, like, most of them deliver in the hospital, and most of them have prenatal care. And, you know, there's some that don't. But for the most part, we can reach so many teen moms by just starting, like, right at that. At that point, you know.
[00:31:22] Speaker A: Yeah, well. And I mean, I think the coolest thing or one of the coolest things about you is just how passionate you are.
One about being a labor and delivery nurse, but also about Hope House. And we joke internally that we're, like, raising up our own champions, we are raising up our own staff, and we do actually have quite a few alumni moms that are now working at Hope House.
But you have always said, I want to be a part of Hope House. I want to work for Hope House. And I've told you not. No, in so many words, but you are destined for something different and more, and that's what you're doing. But you are doing it for Hope House, too.
[00:32:06] Speaker B: Yeah.
[00:32:06] Speaker A: So you are a labor and delivery nurse, but you are on the front lines and you are the first person that can get that information to them and share with them. But you also have the lived experience. So they're listening to you and they want. They want more. And they're. And they're going to be more likely to follow through.
[00:32:23] Speaker B: Totally.
[00:32:24] Speaker A: Because they're like, well, I trust her. Instead of seeing, you know, someone like me stalking them. At the park, we joke about, about that where I'm like, oh, I think she's a teen mom. Should I go talk to her?
[00:32:35] Speaker B: I've totally done that. And I'm like, just staring at them. I'm like, wait, are they nannying? Is that their kid? I'm not sure yet. But yeah, it's hard to put yourself out there. But like, yeah, we just. It's just such an amazing place. Like, I want to scream it from the rooftops. Like, you have to check out Hope House. You know what I mean? And I know you feel the same and you just feel so passionate in, like, this work that we do.
But yeah, I just. I can't wait because I think it's going to change so many lives. Like, if our providers are educated about this, our nurses, like, we can do so much with this.
And I'm just so excited.
[00:33:06] Speaker A: How are they taking it at the hospital? Like, when you talk to, I don't know who your supervisor or whatever, are they open to it or what are their thoughts?
[00:33:15] Speaker B: Yeah, a lot of my co workers are. Are excited about it. They love hearing about Hope House. They just don't know, like, all the logistics of it. Yeah, you know, they just haven't lived that experience. They're just not really aware.
But all of the nurses that I work with are so passionate of doing what's best for patient that they would love to tell them about it if they know. A lot of the times they'll refer to me just because I can explain it a little better. I've been through the experience, so it's, you know, a little bit easier to teach them and kind of point them in the right direction.
But I think everyone's open to it. I think if you're in healthcare, like, you just want to do what's best for your patient. So I think everybody is open to it. And yeah, I love that.
[00:33:56] Speaker A: Only because the they are. You all are so passionate about helping them that you're willing to talk to them about whatever.
[00:34:05] Speaker B: Yeah.
[00:34:05] Speaker A: Because Hope House is a little.
Not a little. We're like a lot deep of so many different things. And so when you start talking about it, first people are like, oh, you help teen moms, but then you start listing off all, you know, high school and ged, college and career. We can help you get a job. Healthy relationships, build community.
Like, there are so many amazing things. Bring your kids. We want to love on your kids.
[00:34:30] Speaker B: Totally.
[00:34:30] Speaker A: Then it starts feeling too good to be true.
[00:34:32] Speaker B: Oh, yeah. Yeah.
[00:34:33] Speaker A: And. And I. I'm sure moms are always like, what's the catch? Like, there has to be a catch.
[00:34:39] Speaker B: No, I agree. Imagine me in like a 30 second, one minute spiel. I'm like, okay, listen. Listen up.
[00:34:44] Speaker A: Yes.
[00:34:44] Speaker B: This is the best place ever. It's not too good to be true. They're so nice. I'm like, they offer this, this, this, but there's so much more. Like, I tell them it's like a resource hub. Like, there's so many things help us can help you with, and if they don't know, they'll reach out and find something for you.
[00:34:58] Speaker A: You know, we'll figure it out. Yeah, but you're the best person to be doing that because they're going to listen to you because of your story.
[00:35:05] Speaker B: Yeah.
[00:35:05] Speaker A: And how it was.
[00:35:06] Speaker B: I really do. I feel, like, so called to do this. It's just like this burning sensation. Like, I have to do this. I feel so called and, like, pulled towards it. And I really feel like this, like you said, like, this is my part in this, because I do. I love Hope House so much and I do want to work here and I do want to do labor and delivery, and there's so many things that I want to do. But. But I think this is, like, the middle ground in how I can help so many people. We can help so many people. Really.
And I'm so excited to tell all these nurses and providers about this amazing program.
[00:35:36] Speaker A: Yes. Oh, my gosh. You're our advocate on the front lines.
[00:35:39] Speaker B: I love it always.
[00:35:41] Speaker A: When did you decide you wanted to be a labor and delivery nurse?
[00:35:44] Speaker B: I was thinking that this morning because I figured you would ask me, but I feel like sometime in my senior year, I just knew.
I did think eventually I wanted to be an OB gyn. But now working with them and seeing Their schedules. I'm like, no way. I don't want to be on call all the time.
And plus, with nursing, like, you get to be at the bedside more and really just see all the transitions of the labor.
So I just love that part in it.
But I think sometime in my senior year and then after delivering the kids, I was just like, this is. This is exactly what I want to do. Yeah. Like, it really instilled to me that this is, like, what I'm meant to do.
[00:36:24] Speaker A: Okay. I wonder. I've never asked you that question ever.
But I wasn't sure when it came. I didn't know if it was after you had the kids. Okay. But it was before there was.
[00:36:33] Speaker B: Yeah, it was before. I remember telling my nurses, like, I want to be a labor and delivery nurse. And I wonder if they're like, you know, like, maybe they believed in me, maybe they didn't. I don't know. I had great nurses, but I don't know if they were as experienced in delivering like younger moms.
But. Yeah. And then now to think, like, I'm doing that. It's so crazy.
[00:36:53] Speaker A: It is, because it was a long road.
[00:36:55] Speaker B: It was a long road.
[00:36:56] Speaker A: You put in so much work.
[00:36:58] Speaker B: Yeah. It took like six years. I mean, it could have been like four. But you know what? It was such a journey, and I learned so much from it. I wouldn't go back and change it.
[00:37:08] Speaker A: I think that's an important point because a lot of the times I'll talk to other moms about it and tell them college is always there. Yeah. You need to take it a little bit slower. And even though they tell you you should do it in four years, it's different for everybody.
[00:37:22] Speaker B: Totally.
[00:37:23] Speaker A: And you just gotta kind of take that journey as it it comes. Plus, you're not only are you going to school sometimes, you're having to work right in all of that and then raise your kids as well. That's a lot.
[00:37:34] Speaker B: It is a lot. And I. I would have a lot of classmates ask me, like, how do you go to school and have kids? Like, I'm barely getting through it. And I was like, it's just all I know.
[00:37:43] Speaker A: Yeah.
[00:37:43] Speaker B: You know what I mean? Like, it is hard, but this is all I know. And I going to work even harder because I have kids and I want to show them how hard you have to work and, you know, the things that come out of it.
Yeah.
[00:37:56] Speaker A: Okay. Are there any other things that you want to share around any of your schooling or your experiences at Hope House or anything like that did we cover everything?
[00:38:08] Speaker B: I'm like, we mainly did.
[00:38:10] Speaker A: Yeah.
[00:38:11] Speaker B: I just, you know, if anyone's listening to this, which I'm sure you are, I just love this place, and it's so amazing. So just to spread the word about Hope House, and I'm just so thankful and blessed that I got to be and still get to be a part of this amazing place.
Still have whiz kids with the kids every week, and that's such a blessing. Helps them in their schooling, but really just a place of, like, community.
Like, this really is my family. I always say this is like my second home. So I just feel so passionate about this place and just so blessed that I get to be a part of it. And I've met so many amazing people through Hope House, so I'm just thankful and for all of you, and I just love you guys.
[00:38:52] Speaker A: Oh, we love you, too.
So if there is a mom listening, a teenage mom between the ages of 15 and 21 that can still apply for Hope House, what would be some form of advice that you would give to them?
[00:39:06] Speaker B: Totally.
I would just say just apply and just come check it out. You might be hesitant.
Just.
You're not really sure what it is. You know, just come and check it out. See what they have to offer. Just meet the staff, and then you're going to be hooked, cooked, because they're so sweet.
I know for some people, I think the religion part is scary because maybe they aren't religious. And.
[00:39:29] Speaker A: Yeah.
[00:39:29] Speaker B: I just want to say to. That it's not anything like, pushy. Like, no one pushes religion on you, but you are surrounded by these people who are believers, and they will pray for you.
And you don't have to be any certain type of way to come to Hope House. Like, they love you however you are.
[00:39:45] Speaker A: Yes. We accept all. We love all.
[00:39:48] Speaker B: Yeah.
[00:39:49] Speaker A: And we're here to, like you said, we just. We shower them with prayer. And they may or may not know it. You guys may or may not know it, but we do pray every single morning for all of our moms.
[00:40:00] Speaker B: Yeah, I think I knew that because, you know, I was like a staff and I was here at, like, the very opening of the doors. Sometimes I'd be, like, sitting outside until you guys got here, but I would see you guys pray. And I think that was just so meaningful to me because I don't think we always. Not everyone sees the behind the scenes.
[00:40:18] Speaker A: Yeah. Yeah.
[00:40:19] Speaker B: And so I think that made me more appreciative and just feel so blessed because I was able to see that I'm like, all these people care for me and love me and my kids, and they want me to do, like, the very best that I can.
And I have this huge support system. So just. If you're thinking about joining, just come by. Just come eat lunch with me and Jamie and come check it out.
[00:40:39] Speaker A: Yes, Come. Come eat lunch with us.
[00:40:41] Speaker B: Yes.
[00:40:42] Speaker A: We'll chit chat. We'll talk your ear off.
[00:40:44] Speaker B: Yeah. You'll have new best friends.
[00:40:46] Speaker A: Aww. Maddie, thank you for coming today and, like, sharing your life story with us.
Going back and looking at it, I don't know if we all take time to look at all the different things. Totally. But as I was thinking about spending this time with you today, I just. I just.
I thought of what an amazing mom you are.
[00:41:06] Speaker B: Thank you.
[00:41:08] Speaker A: What an amazing. And I'm getting very choked up, so I have to stop looking at you while I'm talking.
What an amazing person you are, that you are doing what God called you to do in labor and delivery, but also loving our moms. Well. And loving your children. Well, you're raising up the next generation that are going to do wonderful things because of the mom that you've been for them. They've watched you. They know you're determined and courageous and so very brave. And I am proud of you.
[00:41:40] Speaker B: Thank you.
[00:41:41] Speaker A: And just thank you for coming and spending time with me and whoever else is listening today.
[00:41:47] Speaker B: Yes. I was so excited about this. I was like, Friday, 11am it's gonna work. It has to work.
[00:41:53] Speaker A: Yep. We got it. We did it.
[00:41:54] Speaker B: Yeah. I was just so happy to be here. And I love you so much, and I'm just. I'm so happy we did this.
[00:42:00] Speaker A: Me too. All right, well, tune in again some other time because Maddie and I might be back.
[00:42:06] Speaker B: Yeah, we're gonna convince them.
[00:42:08] Speaker A: All right. Okay. Have a great day, everyone.
[00:42:10] Speaker B: Bye, guys. Thanks for joining in.
Precious soul the things I didn't know the things I didn't know about you oh, precious soul the things I didn't know the things I I didn't know about you about you.
