What does it mean to truly accept yourself in motherhood, in recovery, and in the messy middle of everyday life?

Hilary Phelps, advocate, speaker, and wellness coach, joins the show to talk about the long road to self-acceptance, her 17-year journey through sobriety, and the emotional work it takes to be present as a mother. From her days as a record-breaking swimmer to her decision to enter treatment alone, Hilary’s story is one of quiet strength, vulnerability, and the power of asking, “What do I need right now?”

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Redefining success in motherhood: Hilary shares how she let go of the pressure to be “enough” by anyone else’s standards, and what it took to feel grounded in her own definition of motherhood.
• Living sober in a culture that celebrates drinking: From early stigma to the rise of sober curiosity, Hilary reflects on how the conversation around sobriety is changing, and why acceptance starts with self-compassion.
• The four bodies of wellness: Emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual wellness all play a role in showing up fully. Hilary explains how tuning into each one helps her stay balanced and resilient, even on the hardest days.

Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Intro

(01:29) Hilary’s motherhood journey and self-acceptance

(02:37) Balancing motherhood and self-care

(04:19) Hilary's sobriety journey

(06:04) The rise of sobriety and its impact

(10:25) Navigating social situations sober

(12:18) Holistic health and wellness

(15:19) Daily non-negotiables for well-being

(20:13) Advice for women balancing life's demands

(23:43) Reflecting on personal growth and achievements

Resources:

• Connect with Hilary: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hilary-phelps-6143695/
• Follow Leaning into Being: https://www.instagram.com/leaningintobeingpodcast/
• Access Leaning Into Being Resources: www.momumentalmoments.co
• Connect with Amri: https://www.instagram.com/amrikibbler/
• Connect with Erika: https://www.instagram.com/erikahanafin/