In this episode, we're sharing the wild behind-the-scenes of our dog, Volk’s emergency surgery after swallowing a golfball-sized rock (yes, really) and how post-op recovery took us by total surprise. From customized baby-to-doggy diaper hacks and dressing him in Walmart tights, to two weeks of medicating him with a conveyor belt of medication—we're so glad it's over! We also share some takes how our marriage has been affected since becoming parents: open communication, sharing the load, and choosing not to take things personally when things come off bold. We're continuing to lean-in because at the end of the day - we’re on the same team and rooting for our family.

From Volkies medical scare to dating apps and potential catfishing- We share the story of how our dog Volkie went from playful wrestlemania to emergency, life saving surgery in 24 hours, why we swear by pet insurance, and how modern dating culture is missing the mark. Plus, 12 years in, did we catfish each other?

Summary: We dive into the raw and real of what the last four months have looked like as first-time parents. From missing parts of our old life to adjusting to a brand new reality, we open up about where our hearts and minds are now—on the other side of pregnancy. We also talk honestly about how husbands and wives often experience this season differently, and what that’s looked like for us.

What We Talk About:

– Top concerns and adjustments from first-time parents

– Are we ready for another? (Spoiler: TBD)

– The biggest blindside wasn’t birth—it was nursing and pumping

– How our perspectives have shifted since pregnancy

– The emotional tug between our “before” and our “after”

Why It Matters: Because sometimes the fear of the unknown is so loud, it convinces you to play it safe and avoid it altogether. We're sharing our story to help strip away some of that fear—and to remind you that it’s okay to feel it all as you step into something new.

*DISCLAIMER: Everyone's birth story and experience is different*

Summary: In this episode of The Anastasiya Podcast, I share my full birth story—every intense, beautiful, painful, and unforgettable moment. From naturally inducing labor, to an unexpected prolonged delay in the ER, to finally being admitted, getting an epidural, and welcoming our baby girl into the world (when we thought we were having a boy!)—this is the unfiltered experience of bringing life into the world.

Whats Covered:

– How we naturally kickstarted labor

– Breath work, meditations, and bruising Matt’s wrists

– The kindness of the labor & delivery staff

– The moment we met our daughter (surprise!)

Why It Matters: Because the hardest parts of birth can shape the most magical memories—and remind you that you are powerful, capable, and made for this.

Summary: Join us (Matt & Ana) as we share the nitty gritty and raw behind finding out we’re pregnant, along with all the behind-the-scenes thoughts that came with this life-changing news. This episode is especially for our late-20s and early-30s peers who haven’t yet taken the leap into parenthood—and might still be wrestling with the “Do we? Don’t we?” questions.

What We Talk About:

– Feeling like we weren’t “ready”

– Not reaching enough of our goals/dreams before bringing a baby into the world

– The very real feeling of “time’s up!”

– Where our minds are now, almost halfway through pregnancy

Why It Matters: Because behind every pregnancy announcement is a quiet, tender journey of processing what this all really means.

In this episode we have a special guest, my sweet friend Val, who happens to be a reality tv show aficionado! Join us as we dive into the Secret Lives of Mormon Wives Season 2 Reunion Show! We promised not to voice-note/text/or chat about the reunion until we filmed this episode - so this conversation is raw, unfiltered, and full of first reactions. Take a walk through SLOMW memory lane with us as we discuss everything from the casts dynamics, Mormon faith, moms doing it all with the help of their village, and everyone in Utah getting work done. BUT most importantly, we need to know: are you, or aren't you: Team Taylor & Dakota???

Sharing a quick little recap of why “The Anastasiya Podcast” was born, the things I am most passionate about, and why I will be taking you along for the ride!