The Smile Behind the Struggle: Motherhood, PTSD & the Power of Showing Up Season 3 Ep 12

Motherhood is supposed to be magical—but what happens when the joy is shadowed by exhaustion, identity loss, and even PTSD? 

In this Girl Talk Mental Health episode, Host Virginia Dale Manning and Special Guest Dr. Felicia Young, sits down with the highs, lows, and healing path of being a mom while battling internal storms—especially those no one talks about.

We dive deep into suicide prevention, the invisible pain mothers carry, and how self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s survival. From the tears cried in silence to the smiles forced for family photos, we uncover it all.

What’s the hidden cost of “being strong”?
What does postpartum PTSD actually look like when you’re back to work and still bleeding inside?
And what happens when mothers say yes to showing up for themselves—like at the healing space of the “Moms on the Move” brunch?
If you’re a mom who’s ever whispered, “I can’t do this anymore,” this episode is a lifeline.

Moms on the Move Brunch – Shreveport 
Mark your calendars! On Saturday, October 11, 2025, the Moms on the Move Brunch is coming to Vine Books & Vinyl (620 Texas St., Suite 100, Shreveport, LA) from 11 AM – 2 PM.
https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/drfespeaks/moms-on-the-move-brunch

More About Dr. Felicia Young
Dr. Felicia Young is a transformational leader, educator, entrepreneur, and life strategist with nearly 20 years of experience in higher education and student success. She is the founder and CEO of Higher Minds of Education (HME) and Dr. Fe Speaks, LLC, where she empowers individuals and institutions through innovative educational solutions, motivational speaking, and strategic coaching.
As an award-winning college and career readiness consultant, Dr. Young has partnered with schools, districts, and community organizations to improve access to higher education, financial aid completion, and workforce development. Her leadership in developing Individual Graduation Plans (IGPs), FAFSA outreach programs, and family engagement initiatives has made a measurable impact across Louisiana.
Through Dr. Fe Speaks, Dr. Young inspires women, especially mompreneurs and working professionals, to live with purpose, confidence, and clarity. She leads annual retreats, workshops, and speaking engagements focused on personal growth, professional balance, and mental wellness. Her signature message—“More of You”—encourages individuals to tap into their inner strength and overcome imposter syndrome to achieve their next level.
Dr. Young holds a doctorate in education and is known for her authenticity, relatability, and results-driven approach. She currently serves as PTA President of Scotlandville Middle Pre- Engineering Academy and remains deeply committed to community involvement and family empowerment.
Whether working with students, families, or professionals, Dr. Felicia Young is a visionary voice for transformation, equipping others with the tools to thrive in life, leadership, and legacy.
Instagram: www.instagram.com/drfespeaks/
Website: www.drfespeaks.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/drfespeaks/
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/felicia-young-m-ed-hme

More About Virginia Dale Manning
A voice of FAITH for the strong but silently struggling.
Virginia Dale Manning, LPC-S is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor with over 18 combined years of experience in education and mental health therapy. She is the CEO of GinMan Consulting and Counseling Associates, PC, a therapeutic corporation and the founder of Girl Talk Mental Health Show, a show that empowers and impacts conversations about mental health by exploring healthy ways to manage stats, stereotypes, stigmas and societal norms about mental health while addressing the 6 dimensions of wellness. 

As a powerful and authentic mental health and wellness advocate, she stands firm against the lack of education and empowerment concerning mental health. Her mission is to share knowledge and the keys to help overcome life’s common challenges.

As a 4x author, she passionately motivates, inspires, guides and supports others to live their best life. Her latest riveting trauma memoir, Set Apart: The Journey to Find Hope in Times of Shame. Loneliness and Death is available on Amazon.

She is the mother of four outstanding adult children & the granny of nine adorably awesome grandchildren. She enjoys cooking, traveling and family time. She lives each day of her life purpose driven & dedicated to living a life according to God’s will.

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