Finding a sense of calm: On motherhood with Jacobs Environmental Engineer Julia

New mom and Environmental Engineer Julia Schmidt is always on the run—literally. She’s working toward her personal goal of running a half marathon when she is 8-months postpartum. Her secret training tool? Maven!

We caught up with Julia about what it means for her to have free, unlimited access to experts on Maven as a benefit through Jacobs, and how it’s helped her transition to life as a first-time mom. 

What has been the best aspect of the support you’ve received on Maven as a new mom? 

Julia: I don’t even know where to begin! Maven has provided me with a sense of calm as a new mom. Any question I have, I can get it answered. I joke that my son’s in-person pediatrician is discouraged by how few questions I have for him during our appointments. I still have all the questions; I just talk through them with a pediatrician on Maven instead of waiting. 

Tell us about some of the ways you’ve turned to Maven during your postpartum journey. 

Julia: I’ve met with many different experts on Maven: pediatricians, a physical therapist, a nutritionist, a lactation consultant, a sleep coach, and a return-to-work coach. They’ve all shown professionalism and caring for whatever my situation is. Many of the video appointments have helped me answer questions or address urgent issues like bottle rejection, and filter advice from friends and family to find what actually works for me. When my son developed a rash, I booked an appointment with a Maven Pediatrician who helped us assess his symptoms over video so we could avoid a trip to the ER. Maven has been so helpful as a new parent. 

“I’ve met with many different experts on Maven: pediatricians, a physical therapist, a nutritionist, a lactation consultant, a sleep coach, and a return-to-work coach. They’ve all shown professionalism and caring for whatever my situation is.”

What has surprised you most about Maven? 

Julia: Maven doesn’t just meet my needs, it is so much more! I love how Maven can be used to help you achieve your personal and career goals, and to help you find a sense of your pre-mom self again without sacrificing your motherhood. I’ve met with career coaches and have also met with a Maven nutritionist and lactation consultant to help me reach my goal of running a half marathon while still breastfeeding when I’ll be 8 months postpartum.

How would you describe Maven to a friend or colleague?  

Julia: For me, Maven is peace of mind! Maven is the friend who always has the answers that are backed by research and experience—and she’s in your pocket at all times. 

Do you work at Jacobs? Explore Maven here to see how we can help you and your family.