Episode 96: How Not To Hate Your Husband After Kids with Jancee Dunn
In this episode, Rachael sits down with journalist and author Jancee Dunn to talk about what really happens to relationships after kids enter the picture. Based on insights from her book How Not To Hate Your Husband After Kids, Jancee shares her own story of how motherhood rocked her marriage and the hard conversations, therapy, and practical shifts that helped her and her partner reconnect.
Together, they dig into the messy, emotional realities of postpartum partnership: the resentment, the invisible labor, the awkwardness around intimacy, and how to stop keeping score. With humor and honesty, Jancee offers validation and tools for couples who are in the thick of it and ready to find their way back to each other.
Inside this episode:
Why resentment builds and how to talk about it
The “mental load” and how it disproportionately affects moms
Understanding labor inequity and how to rebalance
What maternal gatekeeping is and why it matters
The importance of open conversations about intimacy
How time management and self-perception impact connection
Tools for better communication (I statements, emotion labeling, paraphrasing)
Why therapy isn’t just for couples in crisis
Simple exercises to strengthen your relationship
Letting go of social media perfection and sharing real experiences
And so much more!
Mentioned in this episode:
How Not To Hate Your Husband After Kids by Jancee Dunn
Follow Jancee on Instagram: @janceedunn
If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️
✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨
Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.
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