Defrost the Chicken

Natalie Calderon shares her personal experience parenting a 19-year-old son who briefly moved out after clashing over rules, responsibility and independence. She reflects on the transition from strict parenting to learning to let go, the realities of bills, jobs, and car ownership, and the emotional ups and downs of seeing a child grow into a legal adult.

The episode includes a candid conversation with her son about his perspective, lessons learned, and how their family rebuilt communication and boundaries.

In this episode of Defrosted Chicken, host Natalie Calderon sits down with Mayra, a mom and realtor, to share her family’s experience after her son was diagnosed with leukemia. They discuss the shock of diagnosis, navigating medical care, advocating for a child, the emotional and physical effects of treatment, and how faith and community support kept them going.

Honest and hopeful, this conversation explores sibling dynamics, returning to school, practical needs (like gift cards and local resources), and small ways listeners can help families facing childhood cancer.  

after recording and release of the episode mayra reached out to let me know she gave incorrect information about her sons diagnoses. Luisito acutally has B Cell high risk leukemia. Prayers and love to her and her family !

If anyone would like to reach out to mayra here is here instagram handle - @mayraygomezrealtor

as discussed in the episode here is the instagram for the nonprofit organization that helps families with children fighting childhood cancer.  @mamabearsfcc  or go to www.mbfcc.org

Dive into the unfiltered world of parenting with host Natalie Calderon as she explores the pressure to look perfect on social media. In this episode, Natalie shares a much-needed reminder that it’s okay to step back when life feels overwhelming. She unpacks the dangers of comparing real-life parenting to carefully curated online content and sheds light on the blurry line between genuine family moments and performing for likes. With honesty and heart, this episode explores how influencer culture impacts our day-to-day parenting and why authenticity—both online and off—matters more than ever. Join in for real talk, laughs, and the reassurance that you’re definitely not alone in this messy, beautiful journey.

In this powerful episode of Defrost the Chicken, host Natalie Calderon sits down with Amanda, who bravely recounts her emotional journey through divorce. Amanda opens up about the painful decision to separate from her husband, whose struggles with addiction and infidelity deeply impacted their marriage. She shares how these experiences shaped her perspective and ultimately led her to prioritize the well-being of herself and her daughter.

From meeting her husband as a teenager to enduring emotional abuse, Amanda speaks candidly about the internal battles she faced and the strength it took to walk away. She discusses the pivotal role therapy played in her healing process and how she rebuilt her identity through self-care and resilience.

Amanda’s story is a reminder that choosing yourself—and your peace—can be the first step toward a brighter future. Her message about not settling for less and finding balance after trauma offers hope to listeners navigating similar struggles.

In this deeply personal episode of Defrost the Chicken, Natalie opens up about her journey through two C-sections—each one filled with its own lessons, challenges, and moments of unexpected strength. In honor of C-Section Awareness Month, she shares her story.

Through candid reflections, historical insights, and a whole lot of heart, Natalie shares how a quiet, undeniable presence guided her to make a last-minute decision—one that ultimately saved her daughter’s life. This experience has sparked a journey of restoring her faith in God, reminding her that even in uncertainty, there is grace, purpose, and something greater at work.

Join her as she creates space for understanding, healing, and connection—especially for those navigating the tender and transformative world of motherhood.