We got a PEP TALK from Mariai Braune. In this conversation, Maria Braune shares her personal experiences and insights about working, parenting, and family life. As the mother of a teen and young adult, she told us everything we didn't know we needed to hear about parenting our own young kids.    We explore why we don't like counting down summers with our kids, building families that are empathetic and respectful, and the pressures we put on ourselves as moms.    Maria opens up about her own pregnancy and postpartum experiences, including dealing with postpartum depression and seeking help. It's still raw, even years later. She advocates for better maternity leave policies and highlights the need for support for parents at different stages of life.    Highlights: Why you shouldn't get caught up in the pressure of making every moment perfect How to seek help and support if you're struggling with postpartum depression or other challenges during the postpartum period. Why we need better maternity leave policies and support for parents at different life stages How to embrace the rollercoaster of parenting and look forward to new beginnings  How parenting teenagers and young adults is different (and the same) Why support is crucial in navigating the ups and downs of parenthood