What does it mean to raise a family while also serving your country?

In this episode of The Unaparent, Katia sits down with Senator Ruben Gallego and his wife, Sydney Gallego, for a conversation that goes far beyond politics. They talk candidly about the realities of parenting three young children while navigating the demands of public life.

From breaking cycles of fatherhood to confronting the maternal health crisis, Senator Gallego shares how personal experiences have informed his legislative priorities—including the Dads Matter Act and postpartum Medicaid expansion. Sydney brings her own insights as a maternal health advocate and mother navigating the emotional terrain of postpartum identity and civic engagement.

In a country where gun violence is rampant, childcare is out of reach for many, and parental support remains a luxury instead of a given, this episode serves as a welcome reminder that some elected officials are fighting to change that. It’s a reflection of how public service, at its best, begins at home. Because sometimes, being a good parent is one of the most radical and impactful forms of leadership.

🌸 Topics covered:

• Fatherhood, masculinity & breaking generational cycles
• Maternal health & postpartum policy in America
• Raising kids in an era of gun violence
• Navigating political life as a family
• What gives them hope and what they’re fighting for

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

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⁠The Unaparent Podcast⁠ is a ⁠Studio Dama⁠ production. For production, sponsorship, and ad inquiries contact marina@studiodamadesign.com or send a DM to ⁠@studio.dama.design⁠

SHOW NOTES:

00:00 – Introduction & Guest Bios

02:45 – Unapparent Truths of Parenting

05:20 – How Their Upbringings Shaped Their Parenting Values

08:35 – Early Parenting Fears & Breaking Generational Cycles

12:05 – Legislation Inspired by Lived Experience (Postpartum, Dads Matter Act)

14:40 – What the U.S. Gets Wrong About Postpartum Care

17:30 – The Economic Reality of Raising Children

19:00 – Parenting as Civic Duty & Government Support

21:10 – Gun Violence & Sending Kids to School in Fear

26:50 – Raising Kids in the Public Eye

30:00 – Modeling Presence & Prioritizing Family

33:00 – Navigating Campaigns, Sacrifice, and Support at Home

34:50 – What Gives Them Hope as Parents

38:00 – Final Reflections & Advocacy Plugs (March of Dimes, Children’s Museum of Phoenix)