Meet Your Austin Mama Coach | Austin Newborn Photographer

Let me ask you this – Have you found yourself googling at 3am “why will my baby not stop crying?” or “how to fix my baby’s constipation”? Yep – been there, done that! What if I told you there was another way? What if I told you that you could take all of your questions, and instead of relying on Google or ChatGPT, you could have real human interaction with a real, experienced mama coach? Someone who has walked in your shoes but, even better, has all the training and education to guide you through this joyful (and chaotic) journey?

If any of this resonates with you, you’re in the right place!

Meet Emily

I recently had the pleasure to sit down with Emily Tavag, an Austin-based Mama Coach, to get the inside scoop on what she really does, the biggest misconceptions new parents have, and how hiring a mama coach can actually save you time and preserve your sanity.

Whether you’re considering hiring a professional or just looking for mama tips, you’re going to love this conversation!

Introduction To Your Austin Mama Coach

Emily Tavag is a Registered Nurse, mom of two, and the owner of The Mama Coach—Emily Tavag, based in Austin, TX. With over a decade of nursing experience, Emily helps overwhelmed parents—especially those used to having it all together—find calm, confidence, and rest on their parenting journey.

Let’s learn more about Emily’s role as a Mama Coach!

Q1: What does a Mama Coach actually do that most people don’t realize?

Most people think I only support babies, but the truth is, I support parents just as much! As a Mama Coach and Registered Nurse, I help you find evidence-based solutions for your baby or child’s challenges—sleep, feeding, fussiness, potty training—and I guide you through the emotional load that accompanies them. When your baby or child is struggling, it affects your confidence, your sleep, your mental health. I create a plan that supports both your child and you so you can feel calm, capable, and supported.

Q2: What are the biggest misconceptions people have about hiring a Mama Coach?

A big one is skepticism—especially if you’ve already talked to multiple professionals and still feel stuck. But that fear disappears when we work together because there’s no time crunch. I want you to tell me all the details and I’m not intimidated by complex problems.

Another misconception is that Mama Coaches are the same as doulas. While doulas are very valuable, I bring a different lens as a Registered Nurse. My background combines clinical expertise, physical assessment skills, and emotional support to guide you through sleep, feeding, and parenting transitions. And lastly—despite the name—I don’t just support moms. I work with all kinds of families and identities. If you’re caring for a little one and need support, I’m here for you.

Q3: What should mothers/parents know before hiring a Mama Coach to make the process smoother?

I think the most important thing to know is that it’s ok to be honest—even if it feels messy. You don’t need to say what you think I want to hear. You don’t need to hide if you’re co-sleeping. I’m not here to judge—I’m here to help.

The more open you are about your challenges and what’s really going on, the better I can support you. You’re not expected to have it all together and there’s no one “right” way.

So come as you are – The best way to make this process smoother is to let yourself and your baby or child be seen, just as you are right now.

Q5: What are the most common mistakes new mothers/parents make when trying to figure it all out on their own?

One common mistake is looking everywhere for answers—Instagram accounts, blogs, Google, friends, and pediatricians. It can lead to information overload and a lot of conflicting advice, which often causes more stress than clarity.

Another big one is trying to do everything perfectly. From nap schedules to spotless homes, perfection isn’t the goal—and expecting it can make you feel like you’re failing when your baby is just being a baby.

The truth is, support can help you focus on what actually matters and let go of the outside noise and pressure to figure it all out on your own.

Q6: How do you help clients define what they need help with when they don’t know where to start?

Many parents come to me unsure of where to begin—and that’s completely okay. You don’t need to have all the answers before reaching out. I offer a free Discovery Call so we can talk through what’s going on. I’ll ask a few thoughtful questions, listen closely, and help you uncover what’s feeling hardest right night. Then we explore what you want life to feel like and I’ll explain which of my packages best supports your goals.

Q7: Are there certain situations in which mothers/parents should always hire a professional?

I’m hesitant to say always because every child, family, and situation is different. However, if you’ve struggled with something in the past—like breastfeeding, sleep, or postpartum recovery—getting support early the second time around can make things smoother and less stressful.

It’s also a great idea to hire a professional, like a Mama Coach, if you’re someone who tends to feel anxious and overwhelmed, or you simply want a partner in the process. You don’t have to wait until things feel unmanageable. Being proactive isn’t just smart—it’s empowering!

Q8: What’s the one thing you wish every new mother/parent knew about having their first child or expanding their family with a new baby?

I wish every parent knew that it’s completely normal to feel deeply in love with your baby—and still feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or even a little lost.

You will change. Your family will change. And that doesn’t mean something is wrong—it just means this is a transition, and like any big change, it comes with growing pains.

It’s okay if you’re grieving parts of your old life while figuring out your new one. You’re not going backwards—you’re expanding. This stage is about learning how to integrate your identity as a parent with the rest of who you are—and that takes time, reflection, and support.

If you’ve been on the fence about hiring a Mama Coach, I hope this conversation gave you some clarity!

Whether you just welcomed a new baby or just want parenting support, a Mama Coach can give you just that!

The best part? It isn’t just for the ultra-rich—it’s for anyone who wants to feel less stressed and more supported in their parenting journey. If you’re craving more confidence, better sleep, or feeding support your Austin Mama Coach, Emily, is here to help. Book a free 15-minute Discovery Call so you can talk about how she can best support you.

Lydia Suzanne Photography is a lifestyle newborn photographer serving Austin, TX and surrounding areas including Leander, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, Hutto, and Pflugerville. With a light and airy style, Lydia Suzanne offers a full-service photography experience focused on preserving your family legacy with custom artwork for your home.