Episode 1

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Published on:

14th May 2026

Mind the Gap! Small Humans, Massive Milestones

Welcome to Season 2 of It Takes a Village!

Meltdowns & Milestones: Welcome to the Toddler Years.

In Episode 1, Mind the Gap (3 Months–1 Year): Small Humans, Massive Milestones, we catch up on what happened during our break, reflect on the Season 1 interviews that changed us the most, and dive headfirst into one of the hardest transitions of early parenthood: the pressure to “have it together” long before anyone actually does.

We talk about returning to work, bringing babies to work, the impossible choices many families face around maternity and paternity leave, and the emotional whiplash of trying to balance identity, finances, caregiving, and sleep deprivation all at once. We also unpack the endless flood of parenting advice, from mommy boards and Facebook groups to family, friends, and strangers on the internet, and how overwhelming it can feel trying to figure out whose voice to trust.

Because at three months postpartum, the world often expects you to be fully functioning again… even when you’re still learning how to survive. And somewhere in the middle of all the noise, expectations, and opinions, you realize only you truly know what you and your baby need.

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About the Podcast

It Takes a Village Podcast

Where you don't have to be perfect, you just have to be you.

It Takes a Village is a podcast that celebrates the enriching and multifaceted journey of being a woman in today’s world, with a special focus on life in rural communities like the Gunnison Valley of Colorado.
Each episode explores the triumphs and trials of motherhood, the challenges of running a business in a mountain town, and the deeper connections that make small-town living so unique. From women’s health to building lasting friendships and navigating family life, we share heartfelt stories, practical advice, and expert insights to inspire and empower.
Join us as we create a supportive, uplifting community where women can connect, learn, and thrive. It Takes a Village is more than a podcast—it’s a space for growth, connection, and shared experience.

About your hosts

Megan West

Hi, my name is Megan. I have been in the Gunnison Valley for 12 years. If you think my name sounds Swiss, then you would be correct. But in all seriousness, I grew up in Switzerland, and since then, I have had the opportunity to live in Vermont, New Zealand, and Australia. After many years of trying to make it work in the Valley, I am very fortunate to have found my way to Western Colorado University where I work as the Director of Alumni Relations and Advancement events. I have a lot of hobbies from art to the great outdoors but my favorite challenge so far has been learning to be a mom to my spirited four-year-old. My village grew exponentially after her arrival and I am reminded daily how lucky I am to have those connections. This podcast is my way to share what I have and, hopefully, help you find your village too. In the wise words of Helen Keller "Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much."

Liberty Lyons

Hi, I'm Liberty. I've been in the Gunnison valley for 8 years now! I grew up in Tucson, AZ, had the privilege of living abroad in both Chile and Germany for a few years, and came to Denver in 2010 looking to expand my career opportunities and be closer to Family. From the moment I set foot in the valley for the first time, I made it a goal to build a life here. I work from home full time in Transformation Program Management and am learning on a daily basis what it means to raise a 3 year old (spoiler it's the hardest best thing)! I am in awe of how much this small but mighty village has meant to me and how much more we can do to support other women in the process! Can't wait to learn from you all and continue to share my experiences in hopes of building something even greater for our valley in the future.

Brieanna Radford

Hi, I’m Brieanna! I’ve lived in the Gunnison Valley for 11 years now, after moving from Los Angeles in search of a slower, more connected creative life. I run Lift Line Marketing Solutions, supporting local artists and small businesses, and work remotely in graphic design and content creation. I’m also an installation artist exploring climate change and mental health in my most recent work. My husband, Sam, and I have been together for 20 years, and we’re raising our 11-year-old son, Evan, in this incredible community. This valley has given me so much, and I’m excited to create a space where women can share their stories, support each other, and build something even stronger together.