New Moms’ Talk Groups

Mary Esther has been leading her “Not-Your-Typical” New Moms’ Talk Groups since her first son was born in 2002. They have been a mainstay of sustenance for her as a mother and a source of great friendship through the years. In 2011, she expanded her groups to offer support to more parents.

New Moms Talk Groups run for 7 or 8-week sessions:

Wednesdays at 1pm in Chelsea at Kids at Work on West 20th street and Thursdays at 11:00 am in Inwood at Bread and Yoga.

Come for companionship with other new mothers and babies
Come to grapple with the range of parenting topics: feeding, crying, sleep, E.C., play and more
Come to take a breath in the company of others and think about your new life as a parent

What New Moms Have Said About These Groups

“These groups feel like summer camp. I wait all week and then when Thursday rolls around I get to see all my friends at last and talk about everything. And then when it’s over, I wonder how I will every hang on till next week!” – Angela

“Mary Esther, you have the lovely – and rare – ability to create a safe space in which I have felt comfortable sharing in an open and unselfconscious way. Your group has completely transformed my experience of motherhood. You have given me my village!”
— Christina

“I joined the group when my son was 1 week old and, week after week, I got to share everything I was going through with other moms who are now becoming a central part of my new life as a mom. I look forward to our meetings. They heighten my awareness of how quickly our babies grow up and remind me to enjoy every moment.”
— Maite

“I was so happy to find a place to share both the joys and the concerns about my new baby and about being a new mother, a place to freely talk and eagerly listen. The topics Mary Esther brought up at each session were insightful and thought-provoking – they so often spoke to what I was wrestling with at the time and sparked such lively discussion amongst our group. And what a treat to see such cute babies every week! I miss the group so much!”
— Jacqueline

“It’s been more than I imagined. I didn’t know how much of a help this group would be. It’s been amazing.” Jina

“As a first-time mom, I’ve felt my intuition, but I’ve also felt doubt. This group has been so reassuring and helped me trust my intuition. It has felt very intimate sharing this process.” Lourdes

“I needed this group more than I could have imagined. I’ve learned so much. I’ve grown so much.” Jamie

“I enjoyed seeing us grow in community, through our stories… the tears and laughter. It’s been pretty incredible.” Erin

“Living in New York, so far from my family, not knowing what I’m doing… even the first day I came here, I felt so great.” Rachel

“This group has been a great opportunity to slow down and be present. It’s been great to get to know other new moms – it can be hard to have community in New York City.” Zoe

“I wish I had had something like this my first months as a mother. I was so isolated. Coming to a safe spot and finding community has been really great.” Megan

“I’ve been grateful for the sisterhood, the friendship we’ve created for ourselves and our children. I know who to invite to my son’s first birthday! I got inspiration and parenting techniques and shared my own personal experiences… sometimes things are hard to talk about and it’s been really helpful.” Jennifer

“I’ve loved being able to nurse and have it feel so comfortable here. I was here for the worst part of the breastfeeding and got so much encouragement and practical tips. I appreciate the new friendships. When I am groggy and nursing at 3:00 am and get a text from someone here, I have to laugh!” Abby

“I’m reflecting on my blessings and I find myself thinking of our New Moms group. At that very unusual time in our lives when we all met – that raw, sleep-deprived, nervous, confused, perhaps a little self-doubting and deliriously in love with our new little ones time – I really needed the group. And I got more out of your shared stories, questions, advice and support than I could possibly express in words. As I chase after my swift, opinionated crawler, I remember us all bringing our sweet little (stationary!) newborns to that yoga room, with our fierce determination to get there no matter how difficult it was, for the chance to talk with one another and set our minds at ease. Thank you in particular, Mary Esther, for being a generous, wise & nurturing leader. You are truly a treasure.” Kristin

“These meetings are such a refuge.” Leah

“I always feel better after our groups… better than I have all week.” Abigail

“I just wanted to tell you how much I appreciate the group you’ve put together. You have such warm energy, it’s easy to feel right at home with you. I don’t know where I would be without you, both during my pregnancy and now. So thanks for being there, you’re truly inspiring.” Maite

“The New Moms Talk Group was an amazing resource for me and my family. Mary Esther led our discussion from a place of understanding and trust, which set the tone for all of us. It helped me combat the isolation I sometimes felt and I know I am a better mother for having participated.” Jenny

“I was so happy to find a place to share both the joys and the concerns about my new baby and about being a new mother, a place to freely talk and eagerly listen. The topics Mary Esther brought up at each session were insightful and thought-provoking – they so often spoke to what I was wrestling with at the time and sparked such lively discussion amongst our group. And what a treat to see such cute babies every week! I miss the group so much!” Jacqueline

“This group saved my life. It is soooooooooo helpful!” Abby

“Being a new mom is definitely great, but can be overwhelming at times. This groups gave me the support I needed.” Patricia

I just wanted to say thanks again for such a beautiful, healing circle. It was a real gift of time and space during the early months – I am still appreciative of the reflection, sisterhood, and new ideas. Shreya

I felt supported in a time that can feel so isolating.” Gabbie

“I really appreciate meeting others who are struggling with the same things I am. I feel a whole lot saner!” Jennifer