Ep. 81 - Leaning on Your Village with Alex Rutkay

Episode 81 – Leaning on Your Village with Alex Rutkay

Most of us say we want a village… but are we actually using it?

In this episode of De-Stress the Nest, Hannah Morgan is joined by Alex Rutkay, founder of City Mouse, to talk about what it really means to lean on your village — not just build one.

Alex shares her personal experience navigating early motherhood, health challenges, and life without nearby family — and how those moments forced her to ask for help in ways she never had before. Together, Hannah and Alex unpack the guilt that often comes with receiving support, and why learning to accept help is just as important as offering it.

If you’ve ever struggled to ask for help or felt like you “should” be able to do it all yourself, this episode will feel like a breath of fresh air.

🔑 Key Takeaways

• Having a village is only half the equation: You also have to be willing to use it.
• Guilt can block support: Many parents struggle to ask for help because they don’t want to feel like a burden.
• People want to help — but need direction: Clear, specific requests make it easier for others to show up meaningfully.
• Support strengthens relationships: Letting people help you creates deeper connection and trust.
• Your village can look different: Friends, neighbors, and even paid support (like childcare) can all be part of your village.
• Asking for help is a skill: It takes practice, communication, and vulnerability.

💬 Quotes from Alex Rutkay

• “What’s the point of having a village if you’re not going to use it?”
• “People inherently want to help.”
• “I had to learn to accept help with open arms.”
• “We have to be better at asking for what we need.”
• “It’s not a burden — it’s connection.”
• “Your village can include people you hire, too.”

📚 Resources Mentioned

• Alex Rutkay – Founder of City Mouse
• Heron House Management – Virtual house management for busy families

📅 New episodes every Tuesday

💛 Sponsored by Heron House Management