We had the good fortune of connecting with Jennifer Hafele and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jennifer, what inspires you?
I feel most alive when I am helping create encouraging educational and community opportunities for young families.

The rugged individualism that America is historically known for is not an asset when it comes to initiation into parenthood. Isolation can quickly contribute to mental health decline, particularly for new mothers, in the postpartum period.

It’s true that having a baby changes everything. And it is a LOT to feel like we have to figure out ALL the newness on our own, as we are recovering from birth and as we are forging new identities, not to mention as we learn to care for a brand new human.

Watching folks courageously choose to be vulnerable and step out into relationship with one another, and with my team, is an absolute gift.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
It is my honor and privilege to lead Mama Bear Family Care, where my team and I are dedicated to resourcing expectant and new families with education, professional expertise, encouragement, and community opportunities.

Topically, we offer childbirth education, lactation consulting, gentle infant sleep coaching, and tons of free parenting support spaces. We are based in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, and serve families not only in western Wisconsin but also nationwide via Telehealth and virtual support options.

I guess you could say that I got here by slogging through motherhood myself, tuning in to my own giftings and passions for easing others’ burdens, and identifying what I wish every person could have as they begin their parenting journey. And then I set out to create it :

* Reliable and accessible resources on parenting-related topics.
* Unconditional support and encouragement on the path.
* Community spaces that celebrate vulnerability and strength.

The best and hardest part of leading Mama Bear? Realizing that I go first.

It’s not easy, but it is non-negotiable. And I dare say it’s why folks resonate — I have me to be, and I’m dedicated to pursuing that with relentless devotion to excellence.

And if I want to encourage vulnerability, for example, I GET TO model it. This is not a once-and-done choice, it’s a daily choosing that amplifies my mission and vision, not to mention enriches my own personal life.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First, I want to give a shoutout to all the neighbors, friends, breastfeeding support group moms and leaders, library storytime parents, mentors, etc., who have each played a role in my own mothering journey. Some of these have been small, some significant. But I am an amalgam of these influences, and I would absolutely not be the same without them.

In addition, I give an enormous shoutout to the best business and life coach on Earth — Sarah Stokes, of The Juicy Good Life. Working with Sarah has propelled me faster toward my mission and vision like nothing else has. My courage to run after what I KNOW I am on the planet to do, continues to be fueled tirelessly by Sarah’s belief in me, as well as my business. I am eternally grateful for the beautiful human she is and the indelible mark she has left on my life.

Website: www.MamaBearFamilyCare.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MamaBearFamilyCare

Other: Contact me directly by emailing Jennifer@MamaBearFamilyCare.com.

Image Credits
Michelle Monson Photography (For all photos except for the last two — “Board + Brush” group AND “Coachees” group. Those two were taken with iPhones.)

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