The Mom Hour
By Mom Hour Media
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Subscribers: 416
Reviews: 0
Episodes: 662
Description
Co-hosts Meagan Francis and Sarah Powers have eight kids between them, little to grown. Weekly conversations offer practical tips and real-life encouragement for moms who want to enjoy motherhood more, and cut back on comparison, worry, and stress. We’re not experts, we’re moms who’ve been there. We’re not perfect, we’re real. Welcome to The Mom Hour.
| Episode | Date |
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Constantly Connected (The Joys & Challenges Of Parenting In The Smartphone Era): Voices 83
00:52:15
Being a mom in 2023 means having a device connecting you to the world, wherever you go. It isn’t all bad or all good – but it does impact our parenting lives at every turn. Join Kia and Jayme, moms of kids ages toddler to teen, as they chat about the good, the bad, and the ugly of being constantly connected – plus offer some tech-positive suggestions for managing smartphone use when things start to feel out of balance. Enjoy! The Mom Hour Voices is a special series on The Mom Hour, showcasing diverse voices from across the motherhood community. Click here to browse all past Voices episodes, which include conversations with and between members of our contributor team, plus expert interviews and conversations with moms from our community. Meagan and Sarah will be back on Tuesday! LINKS MENTIONED:
OTHER HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Jun 02, 2023 |
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Pomp, Circumstance, And Motherhood: Episode 419
00:49:13
Processionals, promotions, caps, gowns, and more! Today Meagan and Sarah dig into graduations of all kinds from our perspective as moms in the audience experiencing all the feels. We have some strong opinions about how promotion ceremonies can be incorporated thoughtfully (or not) into kids’ younger years, and very different experiences when it comes to high school graduations. Find out what brings tears to our eyes almost instantly, what makes us roll our eyes, and how our own kids are “leveling up” as this school year comes to a close. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
May 30, 2023 |
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Mourning The End Of The Baby-Having Years: Episode 418
00:55:18
“Done having babies” and “Sad about the end of the little years” are two completely different mom-emotions, as Meagan and Sarah get into today, with the help of a thoughtful listener question. We look at how it’s possible to be at peace with your family size and still experience grief at the identity shift that happens as your last babe gets big (and your bigs get huge). We reflect on what pangs us most about small kids growing bigger, how to accept the unfamiliar role of being (slightly) less needed, and what it means to embrace the season you find yourself in – whatever it is. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
May 23, 2023 |
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Listener Questions & Our Advice: Episode 417
00:48:53
A parent of three is exhausted by dinnertime sillies and wants help steering conversation at the family table. A stay-at-home mom asks what to do when her child says, “don’t tell dad I got in trouble at school!”. And a parent of a tween who wants acrylic nails asks a bigger question about letting kids alter their appearance in general. Meagan and Sarah tackle tricky parenting challenges with our best attempts at nuance, compassion, and humor in today’s episode. Join us! LINKS WE MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
May 16, 2023 |
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More Than Mom: This Or That?
00:41:39
Happy Mother’s Day! Meagan thought it would be fun to surprise Sarah with an episode full of lightning-round-style “this or that” questions and “would you rather” head-scratchers. Join us for lots of laughs, silly questions and tons of fun! If you’ve been listening for a while you know that we’re chronically lightning-round-challenged. Find out if we answer all the questions before the buzzer goes off! Links Mentioned:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
May 14, 2023 |
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Field Trips, Little To Teen: Episode 416
00:56:05
Meagan spent a soggy day helping eighth grade science students release salmon into a creek, and it inspired this conversation all about kids and field trips. From tiny toddlers at the fire station to teens on a red-eye flight to Washington, D.C., time outside the classroom requires a ton of flexibility from everyone; we're here to discuss the both/and nature of field trips bringing added hassle AND growth opportunities. We also hear from two teachers and a special needs parent about their thoughts on field trips and swap stories about California vs. Michigan excursions for school-aged kids. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
May 09, 2023 |
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Traveling As Business Besties (Meagan & Sarah From Dallas Together!)
00:22:47
SURPRISE! Popping in with a bonus episode we recorded together in real life (and, in the same bed!) on a recent trip to Dallas. Get a feel for what Meagan and Sarah are like on the road together, how we feel about various airport-adjacent accommodations in the DFW area, and what we watched on TV that made us both so happy. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
May 07, 2023 |
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Tips For Traveling With Teens (Meagan’s Florida Family Vacation)
00:43:05
From surfing lessons and sunset cruises, to training dolphins and learning about space…Meagan and her two teens, Clara and Owen, packed in so many unforgettable experiences during their Spring Break trip to Florida! In this episode Meagan shares more about her travels with teens to the Space Coast of Florida and St. Augustine/Florida’s Historic Coast, thanks to our sponsor VISIT FLORIDA. And while the activities may look a little bit different with teens vs. big kids and toddlers, find out why Meagan’s best tips and take-aways for traveling with teens aren’t actually that different from when they were toddlers. Enjoy! About Our Sponsor Thank you to VISIT FLORIDA for sponsoring this episode and making Meagan’s and Catie’s trips possible. Choosing where to go on a family vacation is easier than you think. Florida is filled with experiences you and your family will never forget. From 825 miles of beaches and 700 freshwater springs to over 1,300 trails with breathing room to run and play, there are so many reasons a Florida vacation is just, the best. Start planning YOUR best-ever vacation at VISIT FLORIDA today! Links We Mentioned (Or Should Have) In This Episode:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
May 05, 2023 |
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Feel-Good Foods & Feeding Ourselves Well: Episode 415
00:57:30
With warming weather, meals, snacks and cravings shift too. Today Meagan and Sarah unpack what it means to us to feed ourselves well as moms, from taking time to assemble a sandwich to paying attention to the way food makes us feel – both physically and emotionally. We share some of our personal favorite feel-good foods, and also acknowledge the often inherent conflict in feeding ourselves well AND keeping our families fed. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED: Target links are affiliate links, which means if you click through and make a purchase, we’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
May 02, 2023 |
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More Than Mom: Special Man Friend Gets Promoted!
00:50:44
Meagan has big news. Sarah has alllll the questions. Join us for a fun dive into all the plans and details! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Apr 30, 2023 |
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Tips For Traveling With Small Kids (Catie’s Florida Family Vacation)
00:46:46
Deciding where to go on a family vacation with littles can be overwhelming. How will the kids adjust to all the changes? Will the adults enjoy their time, too? In this special episode of The Mom Hour, Meagan chats with team member Catie Parrish about her family’s spring break trip to Florida. Listen to hear all about Catie’s favorite things they did, as well as her top tips for happy travels with young kids. Catie also shares how she preps her house before a big trip, as well as how to make it easier to come home. Enjoy! About Our Sponsor Thank you to VISIT FLORIDA for sponsoring this episode and making Meagan’s and Catie’s trips possible. Choosing where to go on a family vacation is easier than you think. Florida is filled with experiences you and your family will never forget. From 825 miles of beaches and 700 freshwater springs to over 1,300 trails with breathing room to run and play, there are so many reasons a Florida vacation is just, the best. Start planning YOUR best-ever vacation at Visit Florida today! Links We Mentioned (Or Should Have) In This Episode:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Apr 28, 2023 |
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Teen Parents, Parenting Teens (Young Motherhood, Raising Teen Girls & More!): Episode 414
00:48:09
Becoming a mom as a teen or young adult years comes with unique challenges (and also some sweet memories!). In today’s episode, Meagan and regular contributor Kia compare our personal experiences as young moms and explore how young motherhood shows up in parenting our own teens and young adults. We also compare notes on fourteen-year-old girls and share our love of big families and grown sibling dynamics. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Apr 25, 2023 |
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House Rules For Tidying Up: Episode 413
00:49:15
From music and timers to one-touch rules and baskets for EVERYTHING, moms are beyond creative when it comes to getting kids to help clean up. In the latest episode in our House Rules series, Meagan and Sarah share dozens of smart ways moms in our community make tidying up with kids a little easier. Join us for this grab bag of tidying up strategies you can try with your family! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Apr 18, 2023 |
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More Than Mom: Spring Decor & Home Pick-Me-Ups
01:00:36
Spring brings with it pretty flowers, warm sunshine and fresh scents…and also bugs, rain and mud. In today’s More Than Mom, Meagan and Sarah get in the mood for spring by comparing how our different climates show up for the season, how we lean into spring in our homes, and what our outdoor spaces have to show off this time of year. We also reflect on how spring is a full sensory experience and chat about bringing the outside IN to spruce up our homes. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Apr 16, 2023 |
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Do This Now; Enjoy Summer Later (Part Two): Episode 412
00:43:44
Want to get ahead before the May madness sets in? Do these things now and set yourself up for a less stressful summer! In Episode 412 Meagan and Sarah return for the second in a two-part series with tips from our own lives and from The Mom Hour community, including identifying micro-seasons within your longer summer plans, anticipating shifts in kids’ sleep patterns, and saving money this summer by recognizing what you probably WON’T do this summer. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Apr 11, 2023 |
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Do This Now; Enjoy Summer Later (Part One): Episode 411
00:37:54
Summer has a funny way of sneaking up on us. Whether you’re a plan-it-all-out mom or a go-with-the-flow mama, there are things you can do now to set your summer up for more joy and less stress. Join us for the first episode in a two-part series as Meagan and Sarah share some of our well-earned experience and practical tips (plus some from The Mom Hour community!) for prepping for the upcoming summer season. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Apr 04, 2023 |
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Disney Planning / Disney Parenting: Episode 410
01:08:25
Taking kids to Disney should be a magical experience, right? From meeting Mickey to flying on Dumbo, memory-making abounds. But LOTS of planning and strategizing goes into all that magic, and LOTS of parenting challenges present themselves inside the park gates. Today Sarah chats with Katie Gouldner from The Mom Hour team about the weeklong Disney trip she’s planning for later this spring. From rope-drop strategies to how to land the best dining reservations–it’s a lot! Katie then looks to Sarah for her best Disney parenting tips and advice for navigating long days at the parks with littles. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Mar 28, 2023 |
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More Than Mom: Jewelry!
00:53:47
Let’s go deep on the fluffiest of topics: personal adornment. In today’s More Than Mom episode, Meagan and Sarah share our approaches to everyday jewelry, special gifts and heirloom pieces, jewelry trends and finding our personal styles. We also talk about where we like to buy jewelry, how motherhood seasons have intersected with accessorizing phases, and what our storage wins and woes are these days. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Mar 26, 2023 |
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Am I Alone? Will I Be Okay? Am I Enough?: Episode 409
00:57:23
It’s our Podcastaversary (yep, we just made up a new word)! Today we are celebrating eight years of The Mom Hour by reflecting on some of your most-asked questions over the years. Beyond recurring queries like “should I have that third baby?” or “what’s the ideal spacing between kids?,” we’re digging into some deeper through-lines that point to the fears, insecurities, and hopes of our community. We also provide snapshots of the many places we have recorded our 640+ episodes (the floor, the bed, different states and more). Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Mar 21, 2023 |
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"Fun" For The Whole Family: Episode 408
01:00:21
Bowling. Bonfires. The mall (no, really.) And board games (maybe?). What’s fun for our families right now looks quite different than it did years ago, so today Meagan and Sarah revisit an oft-discussed hot topic on The Mom Hour: family “fun.” We share several ideas for ACTUALLY FUN family activities that work for our current seasons, as well as some gripes about things that feel like they should be fun but aren’t. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Mar 14, 2023 |
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More Than Mom: Romanticizing The Hard Stuff
00:57:22
It isn’t always easy to appreciate the mundane tasks of our daily lives, or to see the glass half-full when something goes awry. Inspired by yet another social media trend that had us scratching our heads at first (and then reflecting in spite of our forty-something selves), today Meagan and Sarah talk about situations from our own lives where we romanticized the hard stuff to get by. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Mar 12, 2023 |
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What Moms Worry About: Episode 407
01:13:20
Worrying as a mom is a universal experience (and, spoiler alert: it never REALLY goes away). Today Meagan and Sarah look back over the years on the worries that surface most often in our community. Going by the questions we get from listeners, moms worry a lot about safety (our kids’, our own, the state of the world); and we also worry about WORRY (are we worried about the “right” things? is our worry creating anxiety in our kids?). Join us as we revisit these questions and more with that well-worn reminder: it’s (probably) all going to be okay. LINKS MENTIONED:
Continue the conversation: Instagram | Private Facebook Community (be sure to answer the membership questions!) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Mar 07, 2023 |
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Life Of A Writer Mom: Episode 406
00:58:36
Pitching, submitting, and financial uncertainty: the writerly life isn’t easy before kids come into the mix, but as a writer-mom it’s even trickier. In today’s episode, Meagan chats with contributor and full-time professional writer Joanne Ruelos Diaz to talk all things writing. We discuss how we each landed in this career, how we balance motherhood and writing, our hopes for the future and some advice about how to dive in to this creative outlet, whether it’s for personal or professional goals. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Feb 28, 2023 |
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More Than Mom: Dream Businesses
00:56:16
Do you ever find yourself dreaming of a creative outlet or pursuit outside of your day-to-day life? Maybe you've thought about becoming an artist, opening a coffee shop, or even starting your own podcast! In this episode, Meagan and Sarah are talking about some of our dream businesses--and we include some from our team of contributors, too! Plus, Meagan gives an update on her actual new business endeavor that started as a dream and is turning into reality this year. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Feb 26, 2023 |
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Motherhood Mission Statements: Episode 405
00:48:19
Do you have "mom mission statements"? Pillars or values that guide your parenting and ground your confidence when its shaken? We didn't - but now we do! In Episode 405 Meagan and Sarah offer up our personal motherhood mission statements by finishing the sentence "As I mom I...". Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Feb 21, 2023 |
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Kids, Crushes & Romance: Episode 404
00:53:49
UR Cute. Be Mine. XOXO. Happy Valentine’s Day, everyone (and happy birthday to Sarah)! No better day than today to talk all things kids, crushes, and budding romance. Join us as we discuss parenting kids through crushes, romance, and relationships, how much our kids share with us about their love lives, what we think about adults projecting romance onto toddlers and preschoolers, and what we hope for future relationships with our kids’ partners. We also throw in a few of our childhood Valentine’s Day memories and have a VERY serious discussion about conversation hearts. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Feb 14, 2023 |
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More Than Mom: Body Image In Motherhood & Midlife
00:57:26
Accepting and embracing the body changes that come with motherhood and midlife isn’t easy – and it’s a challenge that listeners write to us about a lot. While the conversation is (and must!) be nuanced, and the prevailing wisdom on this topic constantly changing, today we’re taking it on the only way we know how: from personal experience. Join Meagan and Sarah for an honest exchange about what body confidence means to us (spoiler: it’s not all about weight or size), where we feel self-conscious and what we’ve let go of, and what we appreciate about our midlife bodies. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Feb 12, 2023 |
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Snacks Or Ingredients? What's Inside Our Pantries: Episode 403
00:53:28
A peek into pantry cupboards reveals a lot about how a family lives and the season of life they’re in. Today Meagan and Sarah open our own pantry doors and chat about what we see: from dry goods staples to kid-approved snacks and some things that are “just for mom,” we’ve got small joys and pesky frustrations in the pantry – just like any other area of the house! We also discuss the “ingredient household” TikTok trend that has moms reflecting on how they grew up and how they’re feeding their families. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Feb 07, 2023 |
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Getting Rid Of Stuff: Episode 402
01:10:59
Big black trash bag energy is in full effect over here! In this episode Sarah is joined by contributor Joanna Martin for a conversation about how, why and what we are getting rid of this January. We talk strategic home resets, major junk-hauling, and tips for ongoing clutter maintenance. And while on the surface this episode is about physical stuff, we also acknowledge the emotional complexity that surrounds getting rid of stuff. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Jan 31, 2023 |
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Why Kids Need Solitude (And How To Help Them Get It): Episode 401
01:04:19
Does solitude come naturally to your kids, or are moments of solo play far and few between? Meagan and Sarah read some research recently that challenged us to think about the importance of alone time, and whether our kids get enough. In this episode, we dive into our own childhood memories, how our children embrace (or run from) solitude, and how challenging it is to find that just-right balance. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Jan 24, 2023 |
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More Than Mom: 8 Calendar Planning Lessons We've Learned
00:54:01
With all the day-to-day planning required to run a household, it’s easy to put longterm planning on the back burner. Today Meagan and Sarah share lessons we’ve learned (or are still learning) that help us look ahead at a whole year, quarter, or month at a time. From knowing ourselves and our seasonal rhythms to figuring out where they keep next year’s school calendar, we’ve picked up a few things over the years, and we’re ready to dive in for 2023. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Jan 22, 2023 |
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Big Kid Birthdays & Milestone Celebrations: Episode 400
00:57:32
C-e-l-e-b-r-a-t-e good times, come on! Today’s episode is number 400! We can’t think of a better way to celebrate hitting a big podcast milestone than talking about how we honor birthdays and milestone celebrations in our families – especially as kids get older. Join Meagan and Sarah as we offer insight into making birthdays special for big kids, tweens and teens; how kids getting older hits us differently as moms, too; and how honoring big kid milestones gets tricker, but still gives us all the feels. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Jan 17, 2023 |
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Our Favorite Resources For An Inspired January: Episode 399
01:00:24
New year, new you…or, maybe just a bit of new energy? Every January we are bombarded with content about goal setting, resolutions, simplifying things and planning out our calendar in detail for the entire year. And while some years January finds us ready to dive in head first, other years we need a bit of inspiration before getting our New Year’s juices flowing. In today’s episode, Meagan and Sarah share how we’re using the first weeks of 2023 to reflect on the past and gently start to look toward the future. We share what we are doing, thinking about and consuming to help us set the stage for a great year. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Jan 10, 2023 |
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The Laundry Awards! Episode 398
01:05:16
Laundry is is a constant: it’s truly with us every day, week, and month of the year. In this first episode of 2023, Meagan and Sarah focus in on the laundry systems and strategies that are working (or not) in our homes, plus our favorite products, the grossest things we deal with, what’s great (and weird) about our laundry rooms, and how seasons of life change the challenges of keeping up with the laundry. If you wear clothes – or live with people who do – this episode is for you. LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Jan 03, 2023 |
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Cozy Winter Style Inspiration: Episode 397
00:55:36
As work-from-home moms, we’re perpetually seeking comfort and warmth during the winter months – stopping JUST SHY of living in pajamas 24/7. If your cozy winter wardrobe needs an update or you’re itching to do some post-Christmas shopping, listen to Episode 397 for Meagan’s and Sarah’s cold-weather fashion faves. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Dec 27, 2022 |
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Business Behind-The-Scenes & State Of The Podcast Chat: Episode 396
01:01:49
Running a full-time independent podcast company keeps us busy – so busy that we don’t often pause to let listeners in to how it all works! As we approach the end of 2022, Meagan and Sarah share what’s up behind the scenes at The Mom Hour. We start with a lightning round of frequently asked questions (how’d we meet? do we fight? how does the podcast make money?) and move into bigger thoughts about our industry as a whole and the current economic landscape. We also take a look back at how we’ve grown over the years (particularly the past two), profess our love for fellow women podcasters whose names you’ll definitely recognize, and share what’s next for The Mom Hour. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Dec 20, 2022 |
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Listener Questions, Holiday Edition (Vol.4): Episode 395
01:01:49
You’ve got holiday parenting questions, and Meagan and Sarah have answers. In this very merry Listener Questions episode, we tackle things like how to make the magic happen for your littles while traveling and spending Christmas at grandparents, how to coordinate and facilitate sibling gift giving, how to keep a curious kitten (or two) out of the tree (this is our reality this year!) and suggestions for how to handle the post-holiday blues of packing away Christmas. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Dec 13, 2022 |
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A Charcuterie Of Holiday Emotions
00:46:08
Got resentment? Managing anxiety? Filled with hope? You’re not alone. The holidays provide a colorful snack platter of emotions – many of which we experience within a single day (or even moment!). Today it’s our honor to bring you the voices of eight moms, each of whom explores a different holiday feeling: anticipation, overwhelm, nostalgia, grief, anxiety, wonder, resentment and hope. In addition to our contributing voices, Meagan and Sarah also chat about our own hopes and feelings about Holiday Season 2022. Grab a cozy warm beverage and settle in! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Dec 11, 2022 |
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Our Best Holiday Budgeting Tips: Episode 394
00:59:43
Planning a festive, event-filled holiday season but worried about having the budget to make it all come together? Meagan and mom-of-four (and regular contributor) Lisa Payne join forces in today’s episode to share how we stretch our budgets in order to create all the behind-the-scenes magic that takes place in our divorced households with large broods. Join us for all our best tricks (and our Mom Hour Facebook Community’s tips) for hitting your food, travel, decor, entertainment and gift budgets this year. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Dec 06, 2022 |
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Honoring Cultural & Faith Traditions At The Holidays: Voices 82
00:55:02
“Mom, is Santa Jesus’s grandpa?” If you’ve found yourself in the (somehow surprising?) position of Adult In Charge Of The Holidays, you too might be on the receiving end of kids’ questions about what’s going on, exactly, with all these rituals and traditions. The answers don’t always come easy, because even as adults it’s not always obvious how (or whether) to carry our own family of origin’s traditions into a new generation, how to merge faiths and cultures with our partners, and how to explain it all meaningfully to our kids. In today’s Voices episode, Sarah chats with three members of The Mom Hour team about bringing traditions forward from the past, creating new ones that feel right for right now, and navigating interfaith and intercultural dynamics. It’s a vulnerable, nuanced, and sometimes funny topic, and while we don’t pretend to have every aspect represented or covered today, we invite you to join us as we learn a little from one another! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Dec 02, 2022 |
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House Rules For Gifting & Giving: Episode 393
00:39:30
Planning, shopping, wrapping…Oh My! Today we’re featuring YOUR genius House Rules for gifting and giving this holiday season. We chat creative ways for extending the fun on the big day (without more buying), self care for mom after a wrapping marathon, what Santa brings (and doesn’t), how to handle extended family gift giving, AND gifts from the cat (yep, you read that correctly). Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Nov 29, 2022 |
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Getting Along (Siblings, Cousins, Friends & More): Episode 392
01:07:40
Can’t we all just get along? (Or maybe, more accurately: Can ANYONE, EVER, just get along?) From playground drama to cousin power dynamics, sibling bickering to neighborly awkwardness, there’s no avoiding relationship challenges as families grow, change, and evolve. Today’s episode brings together some of the common questions we’ve gotten from listeners over the years about helping kids learn to play well and fight fair. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Nov 22, 2022 |
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Greed, Gratitude & The Gimmies: Episode 391
00:53:12
The toy catalogs have arrived and the lists are being made! It’s normal for kids to wish and want all season long, and it’s ALSO normal for all those “gimmies” to get on parents’ nerves (or make us worry that we’re raising entitled kids!). In today’s episode, Meagan and Sarah talk about what it looks like to help kids cultivate gratitude (it’s a long game, trust us), how to allow them to hope and wish while providing reasonable expectations, and how to model accepting gifts with gratitude and grace. Most of all we’re here to normalize this tension between greed and gratitude in kids: It’s not you. It’s not them. It’s just not YET. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Nov 15, 2022 |
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More Than Mom: Are We Basic?
00:59:58
Trader Joe’s. Yoga. Book Club. Cute boots and crunchy leaves. Today Meagan and Sarah just want to know: “Are we basic?” Join us for a fun More Than Mom episode with deep thoughts on this totally fluffy topic, including a look back at different eras in our lives when we’ve been trend-averse and other times when we’ve embraced mainstream culture. We talk about how it’s not as easy as it sounds to “like what we like” and leave it at that, why Midlife Lady Basic is different from youth culture (duh), and how, at the end of the day, we’re all just humans who like and dislike certain things, right? Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Nov 13, 2022 |
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Nurturing Grandparent-Grandkid Relationships: Episode 390
00:39:04
Being sandwiched between the littles and the grandparents who love them isn’t always easy – and there’s no one right way to do it! Today we’re tapping into the tips, advice and wisdom of our community on a topic we’ve had a lot of request for: facilitating and nurturing grandparent-grandkid relationships. In this Episode, Meagan and Sarah share practical things moms can do to facilitate the relationships we want our kids to have with their long-distance and in-person grandparents. We talk through your ideas for using modern technology to help kids connect with grandparents, making time with grandparents extra special, and how to encourage one-on-one bonding with less of a presence from mom and dad. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Nov 08, 2022 |
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Mom-Life On A Homestead: Voices 81 With Kendra Martin
00:45:30
If you’ve been listening to this podcast for any length of time you know that Meagan’s harbored some serious homesteader fantasies since her early 20s. Nearly 25 years after Meagan’s oldest was born, she’s finally living outside the city limits, and slowly making her “Little House on the Prairie homestead dreams” from long ago come true (well, sort of!). In this episode, Meagan interviews Kendra Martin from the Homesteady Podcast about how she lives off of 100 acres of land with her husband and six children. Kendra shares how she manages to homestead AND homeschool and what their family has in store for their future. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Nov 04, 2022 |
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OMG We’re Sick AGAIN?!: Episode 389
01:03:10
Million dollar sick-kid question: “are they going to school today, or not?”! After two fall seasons impacted by pandemic schooling in all kinds of ways, Fall 2022 appears to be The One Where The Children Are Sick ALL THE TIME. In today’s episode Sarah and regular contributor Jayme validate (and commiserate) about the plight of kids picking up every possible virus this fall, and offer practical tips for managing kids home with common childhood illnesses. (In addition to having a toddler and a preschooler, Jayme is also a nurse by training and a physician-spouse, so she comes with some legit background…and lots of real talk.) Hang in there, mamas! You are not alone in your wellness struggles, and hopefully next fall will be a little less hard! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Nov 01, 2022 |
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More Than Mom: Partners & Personalities
00:55:47
It’s no secret that Meagan and Sarah can both get pretty into personality tests, particularly the Enneagram. In this fun More Than Mom we have an in-depth conversation about personalities in general (not just the types and tests!), especially as they relates to our significant others (and how they do or do not mesh with ours at times). We discuss how our different personalities play out in our relationships, the ways we reframe our differences, and reflect on our own challenging personality traits. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Oct 30, 2022 |
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Holiday Hills To Die On (And How To Let Go A Little): Episode 388
01:02:59
From Halloween through New Year’s we’re given opportunities to create new traditions and fulfill holiday wishes – sometimes of our own design and, increasingly as kids get older, sometimes at our kids’ behest. This week Meagan and Sarah talk about the bell curve of holiday parenting: the early influence we have over just how things look and what fun is had, the middle dip as we learn to let go and kid-life dominates, and then the later years when we get to reclaim some control and design a season for our own desires. None of it is all-good or all-hard; but it changes over time and we’re here for your pre-holidays 2022 motherhood pep talk – wherever you find yourself on that curve. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Oct 25, 2022 |
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Sleep Challenges, (Mostly) SOLVED: Episode 387
01:00:42
From bedtime fears to big kid bed transitions, nightwaking big kids and second thoughts about co-sleeping, we’ve covered a lot of sleep challenges over the years. Today we’re bringing together some of the most common pain points our listeners have brought to us about SLEEP, complete with updated commentary and a fresh take on what sleep challenges are like with tweens and teens. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Oct 18, 2022 |
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More Than Mom: 2022 Goals & Intentions (What We Said, How It Went & Where Life Surprised Us)
01:06:36
While there’s a lot of value in setting goals and intentions at the start of a new year (and in revisiting and tracking progress throughout the year), sometimes the intentions we set months ago aren’t serving us the way we had hoped. In this More Than Mom episode, Meagan and Sarah revisit what we said we wanted to do and ways we hoped to grow in 2022, reflect on how we’ve done so far, and share how some intentions shifted over time. We also realize that sometimes life surprises us with growth we hoped for…just not in the way we thought it might happen. And that is OKAY. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Oct 16, 2022 |
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What REALLY Matters In Parenting? Episode 386
00:50:24
When an article or study claims that a certain parenting approach is “best” or is “matters most,” how does that make you feel as a mom? Meagan and Sarah have thoughts, starting with this: assuming that every family defines “parenting success” the same way is a tricky proposition. In Episode 386 we dive deep into research-based parenting advice and, specifically, how parenting data as published in articles and studies impacts our day to day decision-making as well as our mom-confidence. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Oct 11, 2022 |
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Going Big Vs. Keeping It Simple At Halloween: Voices 80 With Joanna Martin & Diane Boden
01:01:29
Whether you love everything about Halloween or mildly dread some of the excess (sugar, stuff, events, oh my!), today’s episode is meant to give you permission to find the traditions and celebrations that work for your family. Regular contributor Joanna Martin is back on the show to interview Sarah about how the Powers family has done Halloween over the years. Later in the episode Sarah chats with Diane Boden, host of the Minimalist Moms podcast about how a scaled-back approach to harvest season works in her family. Happy October, friends! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Oct 07, 2022 |
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A Week Of Real-Life Lunch Packing: Episode 385
01:17:31
Now that school routines are underway, we’re going deep into the details of lunch packing – with the help of our team! In Episode 385 Meagan and Sarah call on the experience, perspective and real-life lunch packing advice of five moms from around the country, whose lunch-eating kids range in age from two to sixteen. We touch on lunch packing pain points, tried-and-true ideas for each food group, strategies for snacking, and some of our must-have lunch packing accessories. We hope that a peek inside the bento boxes of other families will both validate that you’re already doing a great job (yes, even if you send the same thing every day!) AND infuse your lunch packing with some easy new ideas. Take a listen! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Oct 04, 2022 |
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Dealing With Insecurity As A Mom: Episode 384
00:50:17
Oh, you bought THAT carseat? Your third grader has a cell phone? Wow, you really give your kids freedom! No moms we know are immune from feeling judged, or criticized, or called out by comments from others (even if it’s mostly in our heads!). In Episode 384 Meagan and Sarah discuss our own insecurities and vulnerabilities when it comes to parenting. We share our specific insecurity triggers, plus offer ideas for what to think about BEFORE your insecurities get activated, what to say IN THE MOMENT when someone makes a comment, and what to remember AFTER you’ve had an experience that makes you feel judged. We hope you find this conversation comforting; you are not alone! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Sep 27, 2022 |
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More Than Mom: Tiny Habits For Making The Most Of Your Fall Mom Mojo
00:54:06
Have you found some renewed energy now that the season is changing and the kids are back in school? Now is the perfect time to start some tiny habits to make the most of that fall mojo! Today, Meagan and Sarah share some of our small habits that are making a big difference for us this fall, along with the driving principles behind them. While some habits impact our morning and bedtime routines (like skin care, water before coffee and learning Finnish), others are woven into our busy weeks whenever we get the chance (like picking up and reading the local paper). And never forget: while we may seem like we have it figured out at times, some areas of our lives are still chaos, this fall and always. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Sep 25, 2022 |
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Talking To Kids About Money: Episode 383
00:58:44
Teaching kids life skills around money isn’t as straightforward as, say, teaching them how to order a pizza or do a load laundry. Not only are there different ways to approach each topic – from allowance and paying for chores to saving and charitable giving – but money is also incredibly emotionally-charged and often complicated by our own life experiences (ahem, baggage). Today Meagan and Sarah reflect on how our upbringings impacted our financial points of view, and the challenges we face when it comes to teaching our kids good money habits. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Sep 20, 2022 |
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Separation Without (Quite So Much) Anxiety: Episode 382
00:56:17
Separation anxiety – but make it for moms! Today we’re talking about the feelings and experiences that come up when we’re separated from our children, whether it’s for a couple of hours or many days. Meagan and Sarah look back on what separation felt like as new moms, how the tears at preschool drop-off years are sort of the worst, and why we both can go into “out of sight, out of mind” compartmentalization pretty easily when we’re not with our kids. We also discuss how much information we like to have about what our kids are up to when they’re away from us, and whether it helps or hurts to get a peek into their lives away from us. Whether you’re getting ready for your first caregiver handoff or sending an adult off to college, this episode is for you! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Sep 13, 2022 |
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More Than Mom: Books Talk! (What & How We’re Reading Lately)
00:54:45
It’s been a while since we talked about books and reading! These days Meagan identifies as a total bookworm and Sarah as more of a modest reader in terms of quantity – during other seasons of life we’ve been just the opposite. In this More Than Mom episode, Meagan and Sarah share how our reading habits ebb and flow, where and how we find new books to read, and specific titles we’ve read so far in 2022. Cozy up on the couch as we dive into some of our weirdest, quickest, fluffiest, unfinished, most educational and inspirational books we’ve been reading lately. Whether you’re an avid reader yourself, or just want some books talk by osmosis, enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED: Books listed below are affiliate links at Bookshop.org. That means if you click through from this page and make a purchase, we’ll earn a small commission at no additional cost to you – and you’ll be helping to support indie bookstores around the country! We also love to hear when you support your local bookstores and public libraries, too!
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Sep 11, 2022 |
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What’s In Our Fridge & Freezer Right Now: Episode 381
00:58:37
Is your fridge neat and tidy inside with organized compartments, or is it more like a game of Tetris? Taking a peek into someone’s fridge can tell a lot about the season of life they’re in, and in today’s episode, Meagan and Sarah are opening ours for you! We cover the things we love and hate about the fridge models themselves, the items inside that make us cringe, what see in the fridge that makes us feel proud, and much more! Plus, Meagan looks for advice about how to better utilize her garage fridge, Sarah shares a meal prep fail, and we play a fun game of “in the fridge or on the counter” for food staples in our homes. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Sep 06, 2022 |
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Seasonally-Inspired Homemaking & Parenting: Voices 79 With Katherine DeVries
00:47:33
Fall is just around the corner and while some of us look to classic markers like crisp air, sweatshirts and chili, others – especially those in warm-weather climates – have to work a bit harder to make a mindful shift into a new season. In today’s Voices episode (and in a fun hot seat role-reversal!) our contributor Katherine DeVries interviews Meagan about seasonally-led parenting and homemaking. Meagan and Katherine share seasonal activities we enjoy with our kids (and some we avoid), tips for bringing seasonality into home decor (without breaking the budget), ways to change up your cooking routine depending on the time of year (we’re looking at you, farmer’s markets), and ideas for getting through long stretches of dreary weather. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Sep 02, 2022 |
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House Rules For After School: Episode 380
00:45:46
Empty your lunch box! Wash your hands! No screens before homework! What non-negotiable rule do you enforce when the kids walk through the door after school gets out? In our latest “House Rules” episode, Meagan and Sarah tackle the time between when school-age kids get home and the onset of dinner and bedtime. We asked our community for rules, systems or routines that make the after-school time just a bit easier (having a rule can be pure magic because it takes the pressure off of mom!), as well as what small rituals help with reconnecting and decompressing after school. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Aug 30, 2022 |
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Lessons In Motherhood From Chickens & Kittens: Episode 379
01:01:31
While we WILL be talking all about motherhood today, we WON’T be talking about mothering any humans. In this one-of-a-kind episode, Meagan and Sarah talk motherhood through the lens of caring for chickens and kittens! If you’ve been following us on instagram, you know we’ve been busy welcoming 23 chickens (Meagan) and two newborn kittens plus their lactating mama (Sarah) into our lives. We share how similar (and different) animal babies and mamas are compared to our own families (and how we just can’t help but assume human thoughts are happening in these creatures’ minds). Join us to find out why Meagan compares her roosters to bad 80’s sitcom dads and why Sarah gets reprimanded by mama cat! Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Aug 23, 2022 |
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More Than Mom: Empties! (Products We Love So Much We Want More…)
00:47:49
Got any empties? You know the ones–those products that you use down to the VERY last drop. In this super fun More than Mom, Meagan and Sarah share products that we simply can’t stop adding to our cart because they’re just THAT good. We cover all of our go-to skin care and makeup products, our can’t-live-without clothing essentials, candle obsessions and much more! Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Aug 21, 2022 |
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Annual Late Summer Grab Bag Chat: Episode 378
00:48:59
You’re invited to our accidentally-annual-grab-bag chat! In today’s episode, Meagan and Sarah have a good-old fashioned girl chat to catch up on all the things. We share our late summer moods (one of us is very ready for school to begin; one of us likes August to linger), our planned social media breaks (we’ll be back in September, promise!), trips we’ve taken this summer, creatures living on our properties (cute kittens and chickens) and more. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Aug 16, 2022 |
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Glad I Did / Wish I’d Done: Back To School: Episode 377
01:00:05
The back to school season brings that sense of routine that some of us crave–but it can also bring on a whole lot of anxiety (getting the right supplies, attending all the events, filling out paperwork…the list goes on!). In this Glad I Did / Wish I’d Done episode, Meagan and Sarah reflect on all the things we’re glad we did to ease the transition into this season and also some things we could have done differently (or that we plan to try this year!). We share what to do with all those school supplies from one year to the next (Meagan is genius, really!), our approach for communicating with teachers, our thoughts on homework, how we plan to hold onto summer JUST a little bit longer this year, and more. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Aug 09, 2022 |
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First Phones & Digital Responsibility: Voices 78 with Catherine Pearlman
00:54:21
When to get kids their first cell phone brings up all kinds of questions: How do you know when your child is ready? How to talk to kids about safety? How to help kids develop a healthy relationship with their phone? Social Media? Phone etiquette? (The list goes on!) In today’s episode, Sarah welcomes back her friend Dr. Catherine Pearlman to talk about kids and technology–specifically the learning that happens when kids start to navigate their own personal devices, like phones. Dr. Catherine Pearlman is a social worker who has been helping kids and families navigate all kinds of challenges for the past 25 years. She recently published First Phone: A Child’s Guide to Digital Responsibility, Safety & Etiquette, written for kids 8-14. Today Catherine helps us navigate the new and murky waters of personal devices for our kids and answers some of your burning questions about first phones. Plus, stick around for a short conversation Sarah had with her own 9- and 12 year-olds about what THEY think about this topic! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Aug 05, 2022 |
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College Plans & Family Culture (Hopes, Dreams, Memories & More): Episode 376
00:59:29
College decision-making is influenced by so many things–parents, peers, teachers, family members, your larger community and more. And as with everything else: all families approach this differently! While some bleed their alma mater colors, others don’t see college as the only option for helping launch kids after graduation. In this episode, Meagan and Sarah have an open-ended conversation about the role college played in our own stories, our family-of-origin culture, and the narrative we’re shaping for our kids now. We also give you a peek into our educational paths, how we made those decisions and how our eight kids perceive the idea of college today. This is a topic close to home for Meagan as she prepares to send Will off in the next few weeks to start his own journey. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Aug 02, 2022 |
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Listener Questions (Vol. 41): Episode 375
01:02:29
What are Meagan and Sarah’s best tips for getting kids started with their first phone? And with a new school year right around the corner, a mom asks how to prepare her child for the first day of kindergarten and looks for some fun traditions to help celebrate back to school. The “bigger kids, bigger problems” stage arrives early for one listener’s family, and she looks for strategies for maintaining her mental health and other relationships while they navigate tough times. Lastly, a mom of bickering siblings sets us up for a lively discussion about whether it’s mom’s job to prevent kids developing a complex or identity stemming from their birth order and sibling roles. In addition to our own thoughts, we tap the wisdom of our contributors as we tackle your listener questions in Episode 375. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jul 26, 2022 |
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Listener Questions (Vol. 40): Episode 374
00:43:36
What’s a mom to do when one kid feels left out of outings his younger sibling gets to do while he’s at school? A listener about to move to a new city for just one year wants tips for finding mom friends quickly, and another listener’s question about how common it is for moms to feel the need to keep spirits up in a family with moodier characters really gets Meagan and Sarah thinking about their own families. Finally, a newer listener is curious about Meagan’s backstory of young motherhood and journey to becoming a mom of five. In Episode 374 we take these questions from our community and – for the first time! – include words of wisdom from members of our contributor team in addition to our own advice. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jul 19, 2022 |
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More Than Mom: Advice (Giving It, Getting It & More)
00:50:44
Today we’re talking about advice: asking for it, giving it, and consuming it in general. Things have come a looong way since the days of Dear Abby (we’re looking at you, Facebook crowdsourcing!), and in this fun More Than Mom conversation, Meagan and Sarah share how we individually show up when it comes to receiving advice, whether we’re comfortable giving advice, and how it all has changed for us over the years. We also discuss our mutual fascination with advice-column culture and parse the difference between seeking wise counsel from trusted friends and looking for quick answers from the Internet hive mind. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jul 17, 2022 |
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Self-Improvement & Self-Acceptance In Motherhood: Episode 373
00:57:05
We get dueling messages from our culture: On the one hand, come as you are! Accept yourself fully, imperfections and all. On the other hand, you deserve better! Here’s what to do (and buy) to sleep better, eat better, look better, and feel better. It can be confusing to navigate a genuine desire to live your best life alongside the necessary self-acceptance it takes to feel like you’re doing enough today. Do we have this figured out? We do not, but today we’re here to talk about it. Meagan and Sarah share what self-improvement AND self-acceptance look like for them in the reams of wellness, career, mental health, and leisure – plus we reflect on what this balance has looked like at different seasons of motherhood. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jul 12, 2022 |
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What’s New In Baby Gear & Baby Shower Registries: Voices 77 with Kia Hammond and Katherine DeVries
00:39:54
Meagan’s first baby shower was – wait for it – twenty-five years ago this summer. To bring her up to speed on how things are done nowadays and what’s new in baby gear, gifting, and registries, Meagan is joined by Kia and Katherine from our contributor team. Both are seasoned moms who have seen trends evolve, and both have had babies much (much) more recently. Join us as we talk about the pros and cons to today’s baby product landscape, what’s changed and what hasn’t, and what we’d do differently when registering for our very first baby shower. Kia and Katherine also share their must-have product recommendations and registry favorites while Meagan puts it all into context for us. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jul 08, 2022 |
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Growing Families, Grown Kids, And The “Someday Family Dinner Table”: Episode 372
00:46:24
“How do you know when your family is complete?” is one of the most common listener questions we receive. Meagan and Sarah both now have several years of hindsight separating them from the baby and toddler years, and today we’re reflecting on the idea of a “complete” family unit. We acknowledge that it doesn’t necessarily look like what we imagined it would – and that for many moms there is uncertainty and even grief wrapped up in all of this – but we also find much to celebrate about the current and future states of our proverbial “family tables”. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jul 05, 2022 |
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A Week Of Real-Life Housework (Part Two): Episode 371
00:56:20
Not feeling like an expert in the housework realm? Turns out, very few of feel like we know what we are doing. Last week Meagan and Sarah talked about WHAT we do to keep our households in a state of "good enough," and this week's Part Two is all about the feelings that came up as we tracked a week of real-life housework. We dive into some of our insecurities as home managers, the difference between housework and mothering, and some of the really sticky aspects of finding your identity as a mom and homemaker in the 21st century. We have LOTs of thoughts - and we hope you'll join us!
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Jun 28, 2022 |
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More Than Mom: Meagan & Sarah As Kids & Teens
00:57:36
What we remember from childhood helps build our narrative of who we were - even if those memories are fuzzy or slightly flawed. Today Meagan and Sarah get in the way-WAY-back machine and reflect on what we were like as kids and teens. As a child, Meagan was dreamy, imaginative, chatty, and obsessed with balloons (!!), while Sarah was studious, quiet-but-sociable, responsible, and circumstantially prone to tears. We touch on how our personalities developed as we grew up, whether we were “popular” or not, and if we felt clueless or confident come high school. Join us for this fun More Than Mom to get a glimpse into our growing up years (at least the way we remember it!).
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Jun 26, 2022 |
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A Week Of Real-Life Housework (Part One): Episode 370
00:59:37
Most of us enjoy having a clean and tidy home, but have you ever kept track of how much you do throughout the week to keep it that way? In today’s episode, Meagan and Sarah share what seven days of real-life housework looks like in our homes. We reflect on the tasks we knew went into running a home, and some surprising ones we never thought of as housework before (like picking plums and chasing chickens!). Whether you prioritize deep-cleaning on a regular schedule or tend to tidy as you go and hope for the best, it’s eye-opening and gratifying to acknowledge the work that goes into managing a home full of kids. Join us for Part One, and check back next week for Part Two! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jun 21, 2022 |
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Family Travel Mishaps & Why We Go Anyway: Voices 76
00:48:12
If you travel with kids, it’s just a matter of time before a trip goes off the rails in spectacular fashion. Maybe it’s a flat tire in the middle of nowhere, or an expensive vacation spent sick in a pricey hotel room. Today Sarah is joined by Catie, Stacy, Emily and Lisa – regular contributors to the show and seasoned travelers with a combined 13 kids – who share their most memorable travel mishap stories. (Full disclaimer: there will be puke-talk.) In sharing these stories, we hope to normalize that travel with kids doesn’t have to go perfectly to be “worth it” and remind you that you’re not alone if this summer’s adventures go awry. Plus, one of the only perks to surviving stories like these is that we get to laugh about them later. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jun 17, 2022 |
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8 Truths Every Mom Needs To Hear: Episode 369
00:49:46
As moms, we can be hard on ourselves…and sometimes we just need to hear the simplest, oft-repeated pieces of advice and encouragement to remind us that it is all going to be OK. Join Meagan and Sarah for a reflection on eight pieces of wisdom that have carried us through motherhood struggles at every age and stage. We are offering them to you, to ourselves, and to all of our future selves in Episode 369. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jun 14, 2022 |
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More Than Mom: Fantasy Summer Camps For Moms
00:48:08
Have you ever fantasized about attending a camp-like environment for grown-ups? Much about the classic summer camp experience is appealing to us (though not EVERYTHING–we could certainly do without the bugs), and the idea of simply showing up for a perfectly curated experience without any responsibility, or planning, sounds AMAZING. Listen to this fun More Than Mom to hear all of our must-have activities (like food and wine tastings, yoga, personal style consults and more!), things that would be a hard no (like swimming in the gross, murky lake or participating in corny, guided crafts) and our daydreams about creating a Mom Hour Retreat (maybe someday?)! Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jun 12, 2022 |
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Glad I Did / Wish I’d Done: Tech And Devices: Episode 368
00:50:31
Among parents, technology and screen time can be a loaded topic. How much is too much? Is that movie too mature? And what’s the best age for a first phone? In today’s episode, Meagan and Sarah share the role technology played in our families when kids were little, and reflect on how things changed as they grew. We discuss the tech parenting choices we still stand behind today, and with hindsight, what we could have done differently. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jun 07, 2022 |
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Getting Outdoors With Kids: Voices 75 With Jayme Sherrod & Jennifer Carroll
00:55:41
There are big benefits to getting kids outside as much as possible. But as a mom to young kids, it can feel intimidating to curate the perfect outside experience for them (and you)! In this Voices episode, Meagan chats with regular contributors Jayme Sherrod and Jennifer Carroll about ways to weave nature into your family’s routine. Both Jennifer and Jayme love the outdoors, but their approaches to getting outside with young kids are very different; listen to get their best tips and must-have gear for successful outdoor family adventures. Whether you are looking for encouragement to take baby steps to get kids outside regularly or some inspiration to try bigger adventures, you’ll love this conversation. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jun 03, 2022 |
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Simple Summer Rituals & Traditions: Episode 367
00:42:42
It’s the last day of May, which means that for many families it’s time to stow away backpacks, say ‘see ya later’ to early morning alarms, and settle in for a more laid-back (or at least DIFFERENT) routine. In this episode, Meagan and Sarah tap into the wisdom of our community and share your simple summer rituals and traditions for filling summer calendars with fun – without totally throwing structure out the window. Enjoy this mashup of sweet, family rituals along with clever house rules to help you prepare for summer days ahead! LINKS MENTIONED:
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May 31, 2022 |
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On This Day In (Our Motherhood) History: Episode 366
00:49:15
Looking back at old photos is a quick way to feel ALL the feels: everything from “I can’t believe they were ever that little” to “What was I thinking with that haircut?” to “Oh riiiiiiiight, that was one exhausting season of life.” Looking back is also a great reminder of the value in documenting everyday life – whether we share it publicly or keep it tucked away for our future selves. In this episode, Meagan and Sarah take a stroll down motherhood memory lane as we look back at one day (May 24) in our motherhood lives over several years. Spoiler Alert—our kids are cute, we’ve had many life changes over the past ten years and Meagan will forever be paranoid about applying sunscreen (sorry Owen!). Enjoy! MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
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May 24, 2022 |
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More Than Mom: Products We’re Loving Lately
00:52:43
Products. Just because. Yay! Meagan and Sarah pop into your Sunday feed with a light and fluffy chat about the products we are loving lately. From linen pants to fizzy beverage makers, pens for lefties and Very Many Opinions About Mugs, we cover our latest can’t-live-without products in this fun More Than Mom episode. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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May 22, 2022 |
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Real Stories About Postpartum Mental Health: Voices 74 With Emily Roark And Kia Hammond
00:49:26
Between the raging hormones, sleep deprivation, and overstimulation that occurs on the daily, it’s no wonder most moms feel a little “off” for a few weeks after delivery. But how do we know when the baby blues develop into something more? In this episode, Sarah chats with contributors Emily Roark and Kia Hammond, who share their personal postpartum mental health journeys, including how they recognized signs of postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety, when and how they got help, and which coping strategies worked best. We also get into preparing for mental health support during subsequent pregnancies, how the COVID upended mitigation strategies for pandemic babies, and more. We hope you’ll join us for this important conversation. LINKS MENTIONED: If you’re struggling, you can speak to someone right now about how you’re feeling by reaching out to Postpartum Support International’s HelpLine at 1-800-944-4773. If you ever feel like you might harm yourself or your baby, text HOME to the National Crisis Text Line at 741741 for immediate support. You can also find a trained provider on their website here.
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See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
May 20, 2022 |
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Oh Hey, It’s May. (End of School Chaos, 2022 Edition): Episode 365
00:55:01
Performances. Plays. Graduations. The lusty month of May is upon us as we ditch our well-oiled, calendar-planning systems and enter our end-of-school-year survival mode. In this episode, Meagan and Sarah share strategies for tackling the extra-ness of this season (like death by a thousand emails), setting intentions for the next few weeks and the many lessons May tries to teach us year after year (maybe someday we will learn?). Enjoy this May madness roundup as you dream of the peaceful, calm days of summer ahead (Ha, wouldn’t that be great!). LINKS MENTIONED:
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May 17, 2022 |
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Talking About Our Own Kids. Or Not: Episode 364
00:49:04
As moms, we are our kids’ biggest fans. But when it comes to deciding when, how and what to share about them with others, the struggle is real. In today’s episode, Meagan and Sarah discuss how talking about our own kids in a public forum gets tricky as they get older (think bigger kids, bigger problems) – and not just for the reasons you might think. Join us for a real conversation about navigating the ever-changing seasons of motherhood and how we think you can be honest and authentic without sharing *everything* going on inside your four walls. We wrap up with some updates on our specific kids (all eight!). Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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May 10, 2022 |
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More Than Mom: Marketing To Moms (We Have Thoughts)
00:50:18
Moms are savvy consumers, conscientious home managers, and discerning decision-makers. So why are we so often the target of hyper-generalized and cringey marketing efforts? In today’s More Than Mom episode – airing on Mother’s Day! – Meagan and Sarah keep it light (and a bit snarky ?) as we vent about the sloppy intent, terrible puns and ridiculous stereotypes advertisers use to market to us moms. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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May 08, 2022 |
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Cultivating A Reading Life: Voices 73 With Amy Clark
00:49:21
Has your reading life come to a screeching halt due to the responsibilities of motherhood? In this month’s Voices interview, Meagan welcomes back blogger, podcaster, and book club leader Amy Clark, to discuss how a busy mom can take small steps to create a readerly life. We discuss all the hacks for finding the time to dive back in (think TikTok’s #sundayreset for inspiration!) and a neat tool for finding the perfect book to match your mood. Amy also shares how reading can help you “find your people” during your current season of life. This episode is for anyone looking to fit more reading into their lives (in little and big ways). Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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May 06, 2022 |
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The Muscle Memory Of Motherhood: Episode 363
00:44:43
Crouching. Bending. Stooping. The magical, ninja-like way you lay a baby down in the crib without waking her up; the feeling of wet, sloppy gums on your knuckles as he teethes. In Episode 363, Sarah and Meagan reflect on the muscle memories associated with the repetitive motions of early motherhood. Some bring back all the warm fuzzies and others make us shudder (looking at you, nipple-biting babes), but we promise, this episode will bring the memories flooding back. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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May 03, 2022 |
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#VanLife (No, Not That Kind)
00:55:34
Between our kids’ school schedules, extracurricular activities, and social plans, we spend a lot of time driving them around. And when they get older and start driving themselves, a whole new world of independence (and issues) presents itself. In this special episode of The Mom Hour, Meagan and Sarah talk about how we use car time to connect with our kids and how we handle some of the challenges that crop up over time, from crying babies and sibling squabbles to sensory overload and car sickness. Buckle up! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Apr 29, 2022 |
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Listener Questions (Vol. 39): Episode 362
00:50:23
Sports and extracurriculars are picking up this spring, and two different listeners have questions about what age to start kids in activities and how to budget for this part of family life. We take a question about “gentle parenting” that leads into an in-depth discussion about discipline philosophies and finding the approach that works for your family. Finally, a busy mom of three has the chance to get help from neighborhood “mother’s helpers” and wants our guidance on how to make the most of the extra sets of hands. Meagan and Sarah offer validation, support, and encouragement in another Listener Questions episode this week – join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Apr 26, 2022 |
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More Than Mom: Spaces That Inspire Us
00:59:16
English cottages, sunny greenhouses, cozy cabins, and professors’ offices. What do these spaces have in common? They all evoke an essence we wish we could recreate in our own spaces. Join Meagan and Sarah as we reveal our twinkle-lit, midlife-lady dream spaces . . . even if we may never have them. We talk about our actual homes, too, and our romantic visions vs. reality. Plus we imagine nap rooms (yes, please) and opening The Mom Hour satellite offices in our favorite fantasy locales. This is a fun one; join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Apr 24, 2022 |
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Listener Questions (Vol. 38): Episode 361
00:47:59
A mom of big kids is going back to work full-time and wondering how to prepare her family. A toddler needs to brush his teeth and take vitamins, but hates it; should Mom force it? A lucky listener now has two pantries and is looking for tips on optimal organization for kitchen items and back stock storage. Finally, a teacher mom is stuck on how to balance school behavior and discipline at home. For today’s episode, we’re answering these questions from our community together in person (woohoo!) Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Apr 19, 2022 |
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Books We’re Loving Lately: Voices 72 With Joanna Martin & Katherine DeVries
00:53:24
Settle in for a books chat! Sarah is joined by two guest co-hosts from our contributor team today: Joanna and Katherine. Both are former educators and avid readers, here with lots to say about books. We touch on our reading lives as moms, what we're reading lately, and how and when we prefer to do our reading. Then we dive into book recommendations for kids - starting with babies and moving all the way up through teens. This episode is for anyone who loves to read or aspires to read more - grab a warm beverage and join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Apr 15, 2022 |
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Broken Records (The Things Moms Say–And Repeat!–To Our Kids): Episode 360
00:41:50
When we imagine the “refrains of motherhood,” poetic sweet-nothings of love and encouragement come to mind. In reality? The words that come out of moms’ mouths on repeat are a little more… normal. And that’s OK! We’re here to normalize being normal. In Episode 360 Meagan and Sarah highlight the best of our communities oft-repeated phrases–everything from clever quips to 1,001 different ways to say “No”. We love how universal mom-speak is in the end, and we’re marveling over the clever ways moms find to talk to their families. Get ready to take notes! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Apr 12, 2022 |
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More Than Mom: Our Questions, YOUR Advice
00:45:39
Calling all experts . . . OR at least those who have been there, done that, and are willing to share their thoughts. In this week’s More Than Mom episode, we’re flipping the script and sharing our own challenges in the hopes that our smart, skilled, and seasoned listeners have the solutions we need. We’re stuck when it comes to a variety of topics such as home organization, the care and keeping of living things, hair maintenance, and sibling bonding screen time. Can you help? Listen and let us know! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Apr 10, 2022 |
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Glad I Did / Wish I’d Done: Summer Planning: Episode 359
00:49:49
Today we’re looking back on past summers and remembering the choices we appreciate and the ones we regret. This is a fantastic episode to listen to if you’re starting to plan your summer! We cover family traditions, camps, childcare, travel, and overall philosophies for fun (with boundaries). There’s a fine line between unstructured leisure time and going off the rails, and hopefully our reflections will help you find the right balance for your family. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Apr 05, 2022 |
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Real Talk About High School (With A Real Teen!): Voices 71 With Meagan’s Son Will
01:00:32
We know what it’s like to be a teen because we were all teenagers once, right? Well, not quite. In this month’s Voices episode, Meagan is joined by her son, affectionately nicknamed “Good Ol’ Reliable William” to discuss life as a teenager. As a 18-year-old wrapping up his senior year, Will walks us through the nuances of 9th-12th grade, shares some high school memories, and reveals what he’s looking forward to. He also schools us all on what adults don’t get about being a teen . . . and Meagan explains what balancing a checkbook is. Together, we bond over the universality of struggling to appreciate where you are in the moment. Listen ’til the end to hear Will’s message for moms who are (and will be!) raising teenagers. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Apr 01, 2022 |
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Growing Kids, Year By Year (Ages 9-17): Episode 358
00:49:54
Tweens, teens, (and the parents who love them!) go through a lot between the ages of 9 through 17. There's growing societal pressure, shifting friendships, mounting responsibility, and body changes. Fun, right?! In Episode 358, Meagan and Sarah pick up where we left off last week's conversation, but this time it's all about the older kids. While acknowledging every child is different and being sensitive to our kids' privacy, we remember the sweetness of kids just-on-the-cusp of growing up and tell stories about adolescent awkwardness and attitudes. It can be a bit of a rocky journey, but every teen eventually comes into their own. Whether you're in the thick of it with us or want a fun peek ahead, this episode is a great reminder that kids--and motherhood--are ever-evolving.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Mar 29, 2022 |
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More Than Mom: Reflections On A Two-Year Time Warp
00:59:38
Shutdowns, re-openings, surges, and guidelines . . . so much has changed since the COVID-19 Pandemic crashed into our lives two years ago. And it's bringing up all feelings. In this More Than Mom episode, Meagan and Sarah have a lighter (but still honest!) look back on things like our final outings, strongest pandemic memories, and shared experiences. What do we really remember, and are our recollections even accurate? We also share what we're eager to get back to and what will never be the same. We'll all be processing these squiggly feelings for a long time, and we think this reflection--on both the surreal and the sweet--is a good start.
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Mar 27, 2022 |
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Growing Kids, Year By Year (Ages 2-8): Episode 357
00:41:04
Language leaps, school milestones, growing bodies . . . a lot happens on the journey from toddler to big kid! Join Meagan and Sarah as we try to capture the true essence of ages two through eight. We’ll talk through each year, sharing memories of our own kids and observations from all the little ones we’ve known. There are ages that feel like major transition points and many times where kids’ skills don’t quite match up with their wants. If you’re parenting in the trenches, looking ahead at what’s to come, OR looking back with us, we think you’ll love this one. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Mar 22, 2022 |
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Preparing Kids (And Ourselves!) For Summer Independence
00:54:33
From day camps to sleep-away camps, playdates with new friends to sleepovers with grandparents, summer vacation can be a great time for your child to hone their independence skills. But it can be scary, too. Sometimes a health issue, disability or allergy can make our kids seem especially vulnerable. Sometimes we’re just not sure they’re ready to take that next significant step in self-sufficiency. So how do we balance guarding them from harm with encouraging their growth? In this special episode of The Mom Hour, we’ll talk about the tools you can use to help everyone feel ready for summer plans and the big adjustments that come along with the season. Meagan and Sarah share stories about times our kids seemed especially vulnerable, how those fears or nerves showed up in our kids (and us!), what we did to feel calm and confident, and how we plan for major milestones with kids who are content to stay tucked under our wings – or the ones we’d like to keep there longer than they want to stay. LINKS MENTIONED:
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Mar 18, 2022 |
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Real Moms Share Their Best Family Travel Advice: Episode 356
00:53:21
From packing and organization to sleep arrangements and laundry, there are a million little things that can make or break a family trip. This latest episode in our travel series is a collection of our community’s best tips and cleverest hacks for traveling with kids of all ages. We cover what to bring, where to put everything (including your people!), efficient strategies, and how to stress less. Sarah talks about moving hotel furniture, and Meagan shares a surprising hideaway to sneak in some alone time. Whether you’re boarding a flight or loading up for a road trip, you’ll discover some brilliant, mom-tested ideas to try here. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Mar 15, 2022 |
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More Than Mom: Getting There Is Half The Fun (Especially When You’re Flying Solo)
01:08:45
Whether for work or for fun, flying is a travel experience that’s full of details, decisions, and preferences that can have a major impact on how enjoyable (or not!) it is. In today’s More Than Mom episode, we’re continuing our travel conversation to chat about how we find the perfect balance between timing, cost, stress, and comfort. We spill on our baggage preferences, security line personalities, how our small regional airports impact everything, and more. Plus Meagan tells a story about running to her gate, and we also share our favorite travel snacks and accessories. Whether you miss flying, dread flying, or have never flown before, we think you’ll find this episode (and deeper peek into our personalities!) a fun ride. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Mar 13, 2022 |
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Reframing Travel FOMO: Episode 355
00:46:37
Does it feel like everyone else (but you) is going on fancy vacations all the time? Will your spring break look more like a staycation than a sandy beach? Social media seems to make it worse, but the envy that arises when looking at someone else’s vacay pics is as old as time! In this episode, Meagan and Sarah are busting some common travel myths and talking about how to deal with the feelings that sometimes pop up when all your people are (seemingly) jetting off to one fun destination after another. We also chat about how to make memories closer to home and how being intentional about stepping outside your normal routine can matter way more than the dollars you spend. If you need some downtime–minus the guilt or a giant price tag–this episode is for you. LINKS MENTIONED:
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Mar 08, 2022 |
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Raising Active Kids: Voices 70 With Larissa Maloney
00:39:33
News flash: the babies born at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic are turning two! Their little lives have been marked with fear, stress, sadness . . . and, undeniably, also joy. In today’s episode, Meagan and Sarah are joined by seven moms from our team sharing about their remarkable babies and this historic time they’ve entered the world. You’ll hear different perspectives on how real moms have handled situations like introducing their babies to other people, venturing out into the world, and the little moments that made them think, “Wow, this is a pandemic baby!” Even if you didn’t have a baby in the past two years, you’re sure to appreciate this reflective episode – the first in a two-part series – as we honor the hard and celebrate the specialness of pandemic babies. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Mar 04, 2022 |
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Pandemic Babies & The Moms Who Love Them, Part 2: Episode 354
00:52:13
Moms of new babies have been through a lot the past two years - from tough career and childcare decisions to postpartum mental health struggles, and both the general and very specific grief that goes along with things not going to plan. In Episode 354, Meagan and Sarah continue last week's discussion, honoring the voices of nine moms from our team and community who had babies during the pandemic. While Part 1 focused on the babies, this episode is more about the moms and their pregnancy and postpartum experiences. It's raw, honest, and at times, emotional; it's also an important reminder that every family's "hard" was different, and that every mom's story worth hearing. Whether you had a pandemic baby, are pregnant now, or have older kids; if you've ever felt desperate as a mom, we hope this episode will remind you're not alone.
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Mar 01, 2022 |
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More Than Mom: 2022 Goals Check-In
00:55:51
Is Meagan a yoga teacher now? Did she survive her alcohol break? How is her gut health and body hair? Did Sarah chill out when it comes to reading? Did she stick to her social media Sabbath? Is she a foster kitty mom and standing taller? In this More Than Mom episode, we're revisiting the intentions we set at the beginning of the new year. We share where we've aced it, what helped us be successful, and what's been surprisingly easy. On the flip side, we get honest about how things have fallen apart a little bit, how we're trying to stay level-headed about our habits, and the goals we've made zero progress toward. It's only been a couple months, so we haven't nailed every intention on our lists, but this chat was a productive reality check and helps us think about our paths forward for the rest of the year.
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Feb 27, 2022 |
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Pandemic Babies & The Moms Who Love Them, Part 1: Episode 353
00:49:48
News flash: the babies born at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic are turning two! Their little lives have been marked with fear, stress, sadness . . . and, undeniably, also joy. In today’s episode, Meagan and Sarah are joined by seven moms from our team sharing about their remarkable babies and this historic time they’ve entered the world. You’ll hear different perspectives on how real moms have handled situations like introducing their babies to other people, venturing out into the world, and the little moments that made them think, “Wow, this is a pandemic baby!” Even if you didn’t have a baby in the past two years, you’re sure to appreciate this reflective episode – the first in a two-part series – as we honor the hard and celebrate the specialness of pandemic babies. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Feb 22, 2022 |
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Mothering Other People’s Kids: Episode 352
00:47:27
Whether you’ve known them since they were babies or they’re part of a crew always hanging out at your house, there’s a special relationship that can form between you and kiddos that aren’t your own. In today’s episode, Meagan and Sarah are chatting about the “mom vibe” we’re going for, little ways we adjust behavior (both kids’ AND ours), and what happens if a child isn’t a great fit for our fam. Meagan also shares what it’s like to cultivate meaningful connections with teenagers and grown nieces and nephews. So get comfy, and join us for this heartwarming episode . . . Meagan’s passing out blankies, and Sarah’s got the good snacks! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Feb 15, 2022 |
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More Than Mom: Finding Love After Divorce
00:54:23
Meagan’s current romance sitch is a topic we get questions about from curious listeners, so today we’re giving an update, beginning with the meet-cute to end all meet-cutes! Since then, it’s been more than a two-year journey (through Covid, no less!) as Eric has gone from a “Person You May Know” on Facebook to Meagan’s “Special Man Friend.” Sarah asks Meagan how they’re handling sticky stuff, like dating someone with kids, grown-up sleepovers, moving in together (or not), and sharing holidays. And Meagan shares what she loves about Eric and the common ground that connects them. Lest you think this episode is all about warm fuzzies, we also toss in a goodnatured Super Bowl rant and take a moment to figure out Meagan’s real age. This day-before-Valentine’s, More Than Mom episode is sure to put a smile on your face–and lend some hope and comfort to our dating-mom listeners. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Feb 13, 2022 |
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Saving Money On Food And Groceries: Episode 351
01:00:09
If you feel like your grocery bill has been creeping up, you’re not crazy. Food prices have been rising for a while, and unlike other areas of your budget, groceries definitely fall solidly into the “need, not want” category. So how DO you spend less money on food when you’re feeding a family? In today’s episode, Meagan and Sarah get honest about the areas where our food spending starts to spiral out of control, as well as how we approach leftovers, generic products, pantry inventory, and family-favorite cheap-o dinners. We also share some smart tips from an actual budget expert (ahem, not us). Make sure you listen ’til the end to hear Meagan’s best tip! Join us. LINKS MENTIONED:
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Feb 08, 2022 |
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Black Motherhood & Mental Health: Voices 69 With Monique Dozier
00:59:24
Mothers, in general, are experiencing pandemic-related isolation and stress; Black women, in particular, are in crisis. From access to fertility treatments and pregnancy support to delivery complications and postpartum health, disparities around race impact Black mothers throughout their lives. In our latest Voices episode, Meagan speaks with Monique Dozier, licensed therapist and founder of Journey to Genesis Mental Health Services. Monique shares the questions we should all be asking ourselves AND the specific actions we can take to stand hand-in-hand with communities of color. She also reminds us that educating children is an important step in creating a legacy of inclusivity, and shares some of the many joys of being a Black mother. We hope you’ll listen to this important episode. LINKS MENTIONED:
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Feb 04, 2022 |
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Money Saving Ideas, Room By Room: Episode 350
00:55:03
With rising prices, many of us are looking for big and little ways to cut back on expenses and spend wisely in 2022. Being smart about when, where, and what you buy AND how you use it adds up to make a big difference in your bottom line. Meagan and Sarah are sharing their best, budget-friendly ideas for everything from clothing and toiletries to furniture and decor. Plus, they share a few times where taking the free advice of a professional helped them save big bucks . . . and Meagan talks about poopy laundry. (Gross, funny, but informative!) We’ll be chatting food and groceries next week, but for frugal tips on everything else, this is the episode for you. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Feb 01, 2022 |
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Listener Questions (Vol. 37): Episode 349
00:44:32
A mom of four seeks advice on siblings who are like oil and water. Another listener asks Meagan and Sarah how to manage preschool-age brothers who are possessive with their toys. An exasperated mom is desperate for the secret to unlocking peaceful car rides. (Aren’t we all?) And finally, a mom with a new baby has an inkling it’s time to reign in the screen time with her older kids, but wonders how she’ll get anything done without it . . . and if her kids can fight through the boredom. Sibling dynamics pop up again and again in this latest batch of listener questions. If you’re a mom of multiple kids, you’re sure to relate. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jan 25, 2022 |
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More Than Mom: The Internet Made Us Better
00:56:40
The Internet gets a bad rap – and sometimes (okay, a lot of the time), it’s justified. But as with most of the “controversial” topics we discuss, we think there’s room for complexity. In this More Than Mom episode, Meagan and Sarah share some of the positive outcomes from our online experiences, and how we’ve evolved as grownups and moms as the Internet itself has changed. We talk about the skills we’ve learned, the real-life friends we’ve met, and the things we never would have discovered otherwise! Plus, Meagan shares a screenshot of a wackadoo product with Sarah in real-time–and her reaction will have you clicking that link in our show notes at warp speed. This reflective episode is a little bit sweet (thanks to a lovely listener voicemail!) and a little bit funny. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jan 23, 2022 |
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Listener Questions (Vol. 36): Episode 348
00:45:28
A young mom feels dismissed by older moms and authority figures, and also asks for our tips for managing a kid with a quirky obsession. A longtime listener asks Meagan and Sarah how to handle kids who have come to expect big fun all the time. A mom of a preschooler is stumped on how to respond to her little guy’s tall tales, fibs, and white lies–and how to sort fact from fiction. Finally, even though we haven’t been in her shoes, we encourage a twin mom who’s expecting triplets (yes, triplets!) and feeling nervous about about how she and her toddlers will cope. Join us for the latest installment of one of our favorite series–listener questions! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jan 18, 2022 |
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Totally-Worth-It Home Solutions We Should Have Tried Sooner: Episode 347
00:44:08
Sometimes, it’s the small things that have the greatest impact–like a wall hook precisely where your kid needs it or the exact right size and number of laundry baskets for your family. In today’s episode, Meagan and Sarah are sharing easy home hacks and perfect products that are making their lives just a little bit less aggravating. As busy moms, too often, we just deal with the minor annoyances that seem trivial . . . until we’re grinding our teeth because the charger we need is missing (yet again!) We hope that listening to this episode will help you identify the persistent frustrations in your own home and inspire you to brainstorm some solutions. Yes, it might mean spending a few extra bucks or recruiting a helping hand, but we promise: The long-term satisfaction is so worth it. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jan 11, 2022 |
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More Than Mom: Looking At Our 2022 Intentions (Gently, With Curiosity)
00:56:08
Now that we’re officially IN the new year, we’re thinking about our hopes and goals for 2022. From physical health to mental health, habits to focus areas, heavy stuff to totally frivolous, Meagan and Sarah share the ways we want to challenge ourselves this year, ways we want to go easier on ourselves, and the ways we plan to invest both in our own growth and in others around us. We’ll be revisiting this topic to see how we’re doing in about six weeks, so be sure to check back in! Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jan 09, 2022 |
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How Planners Plan: Voices 68 With Christine Koh & Sarah Hart-Unger
00:57:18
Digital task mastery, pen and paper planning, and keeping the family organized: no two moms do this exactly alike – even those of us who love to plan and organize! In our first interview episode of 2022, Sarah Powers sits down with fellow planner people Christine Koh and Sarah Hart-Unger to discuss our favorite digital resources, pen-and-paper tools, and methods of staying organized at work, home, and school. We get into the nitty gritty of color coded everything, what works and what doesn’t for our personalities, and how we use planning tools to avoid over-scheduling and leave white space for joy and (gasp!) even spontaneity. Join us! Note: Sarah Powers chatted Kelsey Wharton from The Girl Next Door podcast for a companion conversation to this episode on Instagram Monday January 10. Watch the recorded video here. LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jan 07, 2022 |
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Cleaning Products We Can’t Live Without: Episode 346
00:46:56
We’re not experts…we’re two moms with lots of kids and dirty floors. Join Meagan and Sarah as we share our go-to products for keeping a clean-enough house, and feel better about your own dusty corners as we confess the aspects of housekeeping we’re just not great at. We share our favorite way to get dog pee out of the carpet, some tricks for keeping multi-use products like white vinegar and baking soda at the ready, and our shared habit of acquiring a LOT of devices for cleaning floors (and yet? the floors are still dirty). Welcome to 2022, friends. Come on in to our not-very-clean houses for Episode 346! LINKS MENTIONED: Meagan’s can’t-live-without cleaning products
Sarah’s can’t-live-without cleaning products
Other things we mentioned in the episode:
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Jan 04, 2022 |
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Ways To Spend A Cozy Day At Home (No Matter How Little Your Kids Are): Episode 345
00:47:14
A day at home with nothing on the calendar or the agenda: It’s the best of times . . . and it can be the worst of times. In this final episode of 2021, Meagan and Sarah are reminiscing about how they spent cuddled-up days at home pre-kids and with little ones, as well as what it looks like now that everyone is kinda doing their own thing. We remember games, baking, movie-watching, and puttering (plus lots of making and cleaning up messes). We talk about at-home activities that are fun with kids, the things that make it challenging, little ways to feel productive, and how to cultivate the “day off” vibe you crave. There’s a fine line between snuggly and stifling, and you might be feeling it this week between Christmas and New Year’s. Whatever the age of your kids or your family situation, this episode will give you ideas on how to take pleasure in the slowness. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Dec 28, 2021 |
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It’s The Most Hard-On-Ourselves Time Of The Year: Episode 344
00:49:20
From feeling like time (or money) is running out to second-guessing gift choices and blaming ourselves for our kids’ behavior, there’s no shortage of ways for moms to feel crummy during the holidays. Even when everything miraculously gets done, you might wonder where the heck’s the magic or feel guilty wondering if you slowed down enough to actually enjoy it (and honestly, would it even be the holidays without a good, old-fashioned mom tantrum?). In this last episode before Christmas, Meagan and Sarah talk through the various ways moms tend to be hard on themselves this time of year, and some ways we’ve learned to reframe our messy feelings. We also chat about how we’re feeling this particular Christmas and how it compares to holidays of the past. Depending on when you listen to this episode, consider it your pre- or post-holiday pep talk–complete with a tasty detour into charcuterie board land. We promise it’s NOT too late to give yourself a little grace. We’re here for you, friends! Enjoy. LINKS MENTIONED:
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Dec 21, 2021 |
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What Our Kids See In Us (For Better & For Worse): Episode 343
00:42:46
When it comes to parenting–and how we generally live our lives–actions speak louder than words. Our behaviors, priorities, emotions, and reactions are all things we’re modeling for our kids. In this episode, Meagan and Sarah try to see themselves through their kids’ eyes, reflecting on the qualities we feel good about and the ones we’re trying to be more conscious of. We talk about how we can’t control how our kids will think about us when they’re grown, but we CAN be thoughtful about the moms we want to be; and even though we’re opposites in lots of ways, we discover a superpower we have in common. This deep-thinky episode is a great one for wherever you are on your motherhood journey. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Dec 14, 2021 |
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More Than Mom: Where We Nailed It (And Didn’t) In 2021
00:55:44
As 2021 winds down, we’re looking at the habits we picked up – intentionally or accidentally – in the past year. Some habits we stuck with and feel great about; some didn’t serve us as much as we thought they might. We celebrate some areas where we totally nailed it this year and get real about the not-so-healthy habits that crept in, too. From self-care and big improvements, to tech use and baby steps, we look at the different ways our habits showed up in 2021, acknowledging that you don’t have to stick with something for 365 days for it to make an impact. We also laugh about the things Meagan does in bed . . . and the new things she wants to try (wink, wink). We end on a hopeful note, with some early thoughts on 2022 intentions (and lots more to come). Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Dec 12, 2021 |
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“Supposed To Be Fun” Activities That Just Aren’t (And How To Have Fun On Your Terms): Episode 342
00:51:06
Over the years, we’ve developed a bit of a reputation for hating fun, but really we just want to give all moms permission to have actual opinions about what’s fun, what isn’t, and how they like to make memories with their kids. If you’re like us, cooking, crafting, outdoor activities, and Mommy-and-Me classes might strike you as are occasionally fun, never-ever fun, or not fun YET. In the spirit of keeping it real, Meagan and Sarah chat about how kids have special ways of tainting activities we normally love, plus we break down how to separate the fun YOU crave from feeling like you have to include your children. We also give real tips for how to make some of these ideas a better fit for your family (spoiler: It might not include you!). And to wrap it all up, we share some encouragement and suggestions for planning future “fun.” Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Dec 07, 2021 |
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More Than Mom: Best Gifts We’ve Ever Gotten (Plus Gift Ideas For Fellow Moms + Awesome Ladies)
00:52:38
Matchy Christmas china, snuggly slippers, nice leather bags, and incredible concerts . . . these are a few of our favorite things! What makes a great gift AND how do you increase your odds of actually getting it? Today’s More Than Mom is all about the most memorable gifts of our Christmases Past–plus what’s on our wish lists (and shopping lists!) this year. We talk about gifts from childhood, experience gifts, weird gifts, and gifts that turn into traditions. We also discuss what really makes a gift feel thoughtful and personal, and some of our favorite gifts to give the women in our lives. As a bonus, Sarah also shares a decade-long Christmas gift mystery! This episode is full of inspiration. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Dec 05, 2021 |
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Preparing Kids (Of All Ages) For A New Baby: Voices 67 With Kia Hammond
00:38:50
One of the most common questions we’re asked is how to get kids ready for a new sibling. In today’s Voices episode, Meagan chats with a seasoned mom from our Contributor team about how she’s doing just that! Kia is a former postpartum nurse and about to give birth to Baby #4. With kids ages 12, 4, and 1, she’s being super thoughtful about tailoring her approach for each child and stage. Find out how she’s dealing with everyone’s emotions (including her own), making changes to her home, and her favorite items for making it all go a little easier this time around. And with the holidays upon us, we talk about how having a newborn will impact her plans. (All the cute Christmas onesies, please!) Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Dec 03, 2021 |
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Home For The Holidays With Little Kids & Big Kids: Episode 341
00:57:36
There’s no shortage of IDEAS for making meaningful holidays with kids, but the reality is that time, money, and mama-energy are limited resources. If you’ve ever been curious about how REAL families do Christmas, join Meagan and Sarah as we sit down with two moms from our Contributor team for behind-the-scenes peeks at their holiday magic making, Advent traditions, and gift giving plans. Sarah chats with Jennifer, a mom of 4-year-old twins, who’s smack-dab in the middle of preschool holiday fun and finally experiencing the light at the end of the tunnel of parenting little twins. Then Meagan and Lisa connect over being divorced moms of many children–Lisa has four kids at home. They talk about coparenting, deciding who gives which presents, and how special it is to share the holiday magic with big kids. Listen and discover how other moms are making this season meaningful for their families. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Nov 30, 2021 |
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House Rules for Playdates: Episode 340
00:51:52
From sharing toys to allowing screens, sleepovers to sibling dynamics, setting some expectations for playdates helps control the chaos (and the tears!). This latest episode in our “House Rules” series is a fascinating peek into how our listeners handle having kids over to play AND sending their kids to friends’ houses. Meagan reminds us there’s only so much moms can control–especially as kids get older, and Sarah shares her personal rule about a certain game that’s NOT allowed to be played in a specific place. Whether your family is just easing into playdates or you need some create some new guidelines, you’ll find some really smart ideas here. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Nov 23, 2021 |
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More Than Mom: Writing, Motherhood & Creative Practice
00:59:18
Who gets to claim the identity of Writer? In our humble opinions, there’s way more to it than whether your work is published or not. Meagan and Sarah have had writing careers that have run the gamut, including dealing with hangups, vulnerability, and rejection. Today’s More Than Mom episode paints a picture of our early writing days, touches on our current writing habits(spoiler alert: You’re probably already reading most of it!), and lets us fantasize a bit about our future writer selves. Plus, we decide once and for all to bring back the word “cool.” Writing not your thing? We share tips for diving more deeply into any creative pursuit. If you have any interest in how creativity connects to motherhood, this episode is for you! Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Nov 21, 2021 |
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Cooking Inspiration: Where We Get Our Best Ideas (And How To Re-Inspire Your Menus!)
01:04:23
Meal planning is one thing, but how do you build your recipe collection in the first place? And where do you go when you’re looking to make a change, such as trying a new technique, or cooking an unfamiliar food for the first time? In this special episode of The Mom Hour, Meagan and Sarah talk about both the challenges of feeding a family healthfully, as well as the sources of inspiration we look to when we find ourselves in a rut. From tearing recipes out of magazines (do people still do that?) to our favorite cookbooks and foodie websites, we’re sharing where, exactly, we get our best meal ideas. We also speak with Megan Lott, the Deputy Director of Healthy Eating Research, who is sharing their latest recommendations on how families can work on healthy mealtime habits. LINKS MENTIONED:
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Nov 19, 2021 |
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How To Be A Gracious Guest (Yes, Even In THIS Season Of Life): Episode 339
00:41:05
From the etiquette to expectations, gatherings are a two-way relationship between the hosts and the guests. In this flip side of last week’s episode on hosting, Meagan and Sarah are talking about our favorite types of get-togethers, the ways we try to be “good guests,” and our strategies for surviving social events (including the ones that feel high-stakes) with little ones. We point out how thoughtful preparation and honest communication–with our hosts, kids, and even ourselves–tempers the stress for everyone involved. To wrap it up, Meagan shares an important reminder AND a mantra moms can repeat when everyone’s on edge. Whether you’re getting ready for holiday parties or looking for tips that apply to any event, you’ll find lots of reassurance here. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Nov 16, 2021 |
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How We Host (And How We Don’t) As Moms Of Many Kids: Episode 338
00:56:52
Hosting a gathering can feel like a huge burden, a creative outlet, a ton of fun, and everything in between. In our unofficial kickoff to the 2021 holiday season, Meagan and Sarah are here to look at how we host, how we don’t, and how opening our homes has changed over the years. We remind you – and ourselves – that there are many ways to be a gracious host and that nobody nails it in every category. Whether you’d like to organize a small friend gathering or you’re hosting the Big Meal for a dozen extended family members, this episode will serve as a gentle reminder that you can do it in a way that feels authentic, welcoming, and – yep – even fun. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Nov 09, 2021 |
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More Than Mom: City Lives, Country Lives (& Suburbia, Too!)
01:03:30
City Mouse…Country Mouse…do we really have to choose? Not in our fantasy lives! Meagan and Sarah have both done stints as city dwellers and have some experience with rural life, but we’ve spent most of our kid-rearing years in suburbs or small towns. Today’s More Than Mom episode is a total indulgence in the fantasies of city living and country life – at their most extremes. We talk about how we’d dress and what we’d eat, what our homes would be like and how we’d spend our days. We also touch on the books, movies, and television that shaped our early understanding of city and country living (turns out we may need a part two JUST about television apartments). It’s a fun one, friends – join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Nov 07, 2021 |
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Parenting Outside The Lines: Voices 66 With Meghan Leahy
00:56:25
From toddler tantrums to big kid anxiety, parents feel so much pressure to tackle these challenges in the right way. Are we expecting too much from our kids . . . and ourselves? In our latest Voices interview episode, Sarah has a conversation with Meghan Leahy, parenting expert and author of a new book, Parenting Outside the Lines. In her signature honest and humorous tone, Meghan shares some valuable insights about what’s going on behind common kid behavior phases. She also reminds us all that WE are the best experts in our kids and that holding empathy for both our kids AND ourselves is the key to combatting perfectionism. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Nov 05, 2021 |
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Obsolete Life Skills Our Kids Will Never Learn (And New Ones We Never Had To!): Episode 337
00:48:21
From taking a detailed phone message and sticking to a meeting plan to utilizing physical resources like paper maps, bus schedules, TV guides, and phone books, there are so many life skills children of the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s were just expected to know. In today’s episode of The Mom Hour, Meagan and Sarah chat about these once-essential abilities our kids lack simply because the world has changed. On the flip-side, we also reflect on the new skills that come so naturally to this crop of kids. In some cases, they’re teaching us! (Multiple remote controls drive anyone else bonkers?!) To wrap it up, we reflect on how to not become gripe-y or grumpy about these natural generational differences. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Nov 02, 2021 |
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A Week Of Real-Life Dinners: Episode 336
01:01:08
Aspirational meal plans are ubiquitous, but drilling down to what families ACTUALLY eat in a given week is a lot harder to find. For that reason, we–and our listeners–love our ongoing series of “what really went down” at mealtime. Meagan and Sarah are sharing what we actually prepared and ate for dinner the week of October 4th, 2021. We also have fun bringing in seven of our contributors to share how they fed their families. This episode has a wide range of typical dinners (including chili all the ways!) from variety of families. You’re sure to find some dinner inspiration and validation that however you’re doing it, you’re not alone! Join us. LINKS MENTIONED:
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Oct 26, 2021 |
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More Than Mom: Fall Style Update
00:54:51
We’ve talked about fashion on the podcast before, but personal style is one of those things that’s always evolving. With today’s trends, cuts, colors, and various ways of shopping, there’s a fine balance between dressing up-to-date AND feeling like ourselves. In today’s More Than Mom episode, Sarah and Meagan chat about the state of our current wardrobes, the challenge of putting on “public-facing pants,” the pieces we’re surprised we like, the ones that aren’t for us, and share some outfits we looked–and felt–cute in. We also figure out what color, exactly, is “puce.” Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Oct 24, 2021 |
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House Rules For Halloween: Episode 335
00:47:33
When do you decorate for Halloween or carve pumpkins? What costumes are allowed? And exactly how much candy do kids get to eat? As we’ve said before: You get to decide! And once you do, it cuts down on SO many battles and questions. In our latest “House Rules” episode, we’re sharing our listeners’ best arbitrary rules for trick-or-treating, choosing (and trying on) costumes, and more! Meagan and Sarah share how they’ve approached Halloween in their families, and talk about how some of their policies have evolved (or been eliminated!) as kids grow. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Oct 19, 2021 |
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Listener Questions (Vol. 35): Episode 334
00:47:42
What do you do when your toddler has separation anxiety and being apart feels somewhat optional? A mom of a baby and a precocious toddler is looking for tools to help with emotional drop-offs at the church nursery. A mom with four young kids is desperate for a date night and looking for outside-the-box childcare solutions. Another mom whose age doesn't match up with her friends' wants help navigating the intersection of motherhood, friendship, and family planning. A part-time SAHM wonders if it's normal to feel bored during long days with her toddler. (Spoiler alert: YES!) Meagan and Sarah give advice for ditching the guilt. We also send our love to a longtime listener who is struggling with setting healthy boundaries with Grandma. We tackle a lot of tough stuff in this episode of Listener Questions. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Oct 12, 2021 |
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More Than Mom: Listener Questions (Vol. 34)
00:34:14
A listener is curious about Meagan and Sarah’s Zodiac signs; she also wants to know if we could add any frivolous feature to our homes, what would it be? (Meagan recommends a llama to complement Sarah’s dreamy detail.) A longtime listener asks if we’ve had any show topics that didn’t make the cut. An aspiring blogger asks for writing tips. And finally, a new homeowner is looking for advice on landscaping a yard that looks nice, but is also low-maintenance. For this Sunday spin on listener questions, we’re stepping outside the realm of parenting to weigh in on a wider variety of topics. This was a fun one. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Oct 10, 2021 |
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Getting (And Giving) Help During Hard Times: Episode 333
00:58:32
When you’re going through A Thing, what kind of help feels most…helpful? Is it practical stuff, like a delivered meal? Is it emotional support, or humor and distraction? And does the way you feel most supported influence the way you step up for your own friends? Meagan and Sarah tackle these questions and more in Episode 333, all about the ways we give and receive support during hard seasons of life and motherhood. We look at our own personalities, our relationship patterns, and how all of this has evolved over time. (We also have a couple of real-time on-air epiphanies!) Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Oct 05, 2021 |
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Raising An Elite Athlete (Including An Olympic Figure Skater!): Voices 65 With Kelly Rippon
00:48:52
From travel sports teams to competitive dance, elite kids’ activities and their impact on family life often get a bad rap. In this month’s Voices interview episode Meagan chats with Kelly Rippon, author of Parent Up: Inspire Your Child To Be Their Best Self and mother of former US champion figure skater Adam Rippon. Kelly shares a much more encouraging side of being an “opportunity creator” for your kids, including her unique perspective as a single mom of many now-grown kids, all of whom were accomplished and active in extracurriculars. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Oct 01, 2021 |
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House Rules For Kid Hygiene: Episode 332
00:38:43
From hand washing to changing undies, bath time to brushing teeth, staying on top of your kids’ hygiene is essential to keeping them healthy and not (too) stinky. In our latest “House Rules” episode, we’re sharing listeners’ hilarious, straightforward, and down-right-genius methods for taking the guesswork out of getting everyone clean. And in the spirit of keeping things VERY real, Meagan and Sarah both tell stories about times their kids seemed embarrassingly clueless about simple hygiene practices. Listen along for some ideas that might make YOUR family hygiene regimen less of a struggle. LINKS MENTIONED:
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Sep 28, 2021 |
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More Than Mom: Meagan Goes Camping; Sarah Has Questions
00:54:37
Meagan is an experienced camper, while Sarah likes the IDEA of family nature time, but isn’t so sure. There’s sleeping on the ground, critters (both mild and wild), plus all the logistics. And with so many options for “roughing it,” from rustic backpacking to glamping, what even qualifies as camping these days? In today’s More Than Mom episode, Meagan’s breaking it all down for Sarah – and for our listeners! From packing to food prep, how to stay comfy and how to get clean(ish), follow along as Meagan shares her tips for figuring out what kind of camping might be right for you. Along the way, Meagan gets real about how she handles when nature calls, tells a funny story about a time she panicked about a snake getting too close for comfort, and talks about storing her gear. It’s an adventure–join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Sep 26, 2021 |
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Small Steps Toward Sustainability In The Kitchen
00:57:47
Doing better by the planet is a lofty goal: but what does it REALLY look like in the homes of busy moms with lots of kids? Less plastic, no plastic, better plastic? Zero waste, composting, recycling? It’s objectively overwhelming, but that doesn’t mean it’s an all-or-nothing decision. As with any kind of improvement we talk about on The Mom Hour, we’re all about small, repeatable actions you can incorporate into your existing routine, and that add up to meaningful change over time–and in today’s special episode we’re applying that framework to sustainability in the kitchen. Meagan and Sarah share how we identify our personal values when it comes to kitchen sustainability, what small changes we’ve made (and stuck with!), and how we keep from getting lost in all the “shoulds” as we navigate doing just a little bit better for the planet, in ways that work for us. MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
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Sep 24, 2021 |
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Envisioning Your Week Of Ideal Meals: Episode 331
00:55:56
Our “Week Of Real-Life Dinners” is beloved around these parts, and we have another installment coming up next month! And while normalizing the pivots and misses (and hastily ordered pizzas) that characterize EVERY family’s real-life dinners is super important, we also know that revisiting the values and ideals that serve as your foundation can help re-energize the meal-planning process. In short: there’s nothing wrong with real-life dinners, but there’s also nothing wrong with shooting for an ideal plan. In Episode 331 Meagan and Sarah reflect on the what’s and why’s of our own week of ideal family meals, acknowledging the pain points we’re trying to avoid and the north star we’re shooting toward. We also look at the “ingredients” that go into a week of meals that nearly hits that elusive ideal. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Sep 21, 2021 |
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Managing Kids’ Extracurriculars (What We’ve Learned & What’s On Tap This Fall): Episode 330
00:54:27
Whether you’re trying to scale back to a simpler schedule or ramp up after a pandemic hiatus, adjusting to kids’ activities and extracurriculars is a huge part of settling into a fall routine. In Episode 330 Meagan and Sarah look at this topic with some hindsight (sharing what we learned about ourselves and our kids by trying different activities during the little years), and also through the lens of Fall 2021 (what our kids are playing and trying now, and how a year off has changed things in our families). We also reflect on how our own childhoods influence our family cultures around extracurriculars, and what has surprised us about how older kids and teens find their passions and pursuits. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Sep 14, 2021 |
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More Than Mom: The OTHER Four Senses
01:02:29
Our favorite foods and flavors are WELL-documented on the podcast, but what about the other four senses? Sights, smells, sounds, and textures can all contribute to a boosted mood OR a not-so-great sensory experience. In today’s More Than Mom episode – our first one back after a summer hiatus! – Sarah and Meagan chat about whether our sensory preferences change with the seasons, how our sensitivities have changed with age, and what specific textures, scents, and sounds we’re drawn to. We round out the episode by talking about how trends influence our favorite colors, and which ones we’ve loved our whole lives. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Sep 12, 2021 |
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Our Birth Stories (And Your Questions About Them!): Episode 329
01:03:09
Every pregnancy, baby, and birth is unique–and between us we’ve had eight of them! From planned c-sections to hospital births that didn’t go as planned, birthing centers, home births, and water births: we haven’t experienced everything, but we’ve been through a lot! Coming off of Labor Day (wink wink), Meagan and Sarah are looking back on the births of our eight babies in Episode 329. We answer your questions about how we prepared, some funny and not-so-fun moments, and what we wish we had known about birth. Join us! We know birth stories can be hard to hear. If you’re struggling with infertility you might find encouragement in this episode; if you’ve experienced a pregnancy loss, we recommend this episode; if you’re going through a medically difficult pregnancy or difficult diagnosis, try this one or this one; if you’re experiencing infant loss or a tough NICU stay, this episode may help you feel less alone. LINKS MENTIONED:
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Sep 07, 2021 |
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Inside The Morning Hustle: Voices 64 With Lisa Payne & Ashley Schafluetzel
00:53:07
Ever wondered how other moms get everybody up, ready, fed, and out the door with all their parts and pieces? We think it’s fascinating to peek behind the curtain at different families’ routines and rituals, so in today’s episode Sarah chats with two moms from our Contributor team. Lisa is a full-time working single mom of four kids (at three schools!) who has great ideas for keeping mornings calm, making time for herself, and giving kids increasing independence as they grow. Ashley is a kindergarten teacher and mom of two kids, one with Cerebral Palsy, so mornings present a different set of challenges in her house. Find out what’s working well so far this fall for Lisa’s and Ashley’s families, how they’re dealing with setbacks, and what they’ve learned works for them when it comes to morning routines. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Sep 03, 2021 |
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House Rules For Easier Mornings: Episode 328
00:44:56
Stress out by mornings? You’re not alone. But good news: we found the source of all solutions for smoother mornings… THIS COMMUNITY. The latest episode in our House Rules For… series is full of our listeners’ genius ideas for prepping ahead, managing morning screen time, and how, when, and where Mom Signs All The Things. Whether you have early risers or slow-to-movers, listen to Episode 328 to hear how experienced parents in our community are setting boundaries, teaching responsibility, and taking the guesswork out of the morning hustle. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Aug 31, 2021 |
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Want More Energy As A Mom? Start By Learning What Drains (& Boosts!) You: Episode 327
00:56:16
Expectations these days feel like … a lot. When your energy is finite and the demands on you feel, well, INfinite, we find it helps to begin with self-awareness. What drains your energy as a mom? When are you naturally at your best? If you’re depleted, is it physical, mental, or emotional energy that’s in shortest supply? And if you’re in a low-energy season – whether it’s a day, a week, a month, or a year – can you reprioritize and reframe so that you’re not further weighed down by guilt or unrealistic expectations? Sarah and Meagan look at these questions and more in Episode 327. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Aug 24, 2021 |
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What’s For Breakfast This Fall: Episode 326
00:54:32
Every family’s breakfast routine looks different – and that’s OK. Whether you’re all about prep-ahead dishes that fill up hungry kids on weekday mornings, or are just trying to make it out the door in one piece with a cereal bar for the road, we’re here to validate that not every single breakfast needs to look perfect, or tick every nutritional box. Join Meagan and Sarah for Episode 326, a zoom in on the first meal of the day. We talk about our family cultures around breakfast, how weekends look (very) different from weekday mornings, and how things have shifted as kids have gotten older. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Aug 17, 2021 |
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Late Summer Grab Bag & What We’re Loving Lately: Episode 325
00:52:05
Meagan and Sarah are inviting you in for a good old-fashioned catch-up sesh as we wind down Summer 2021. There’s a bit of everything in today’s episode: updates on our own kid and family milestones, reflections on the second pandemic summer (a few fails, some sweet moments, and everything in between), thoughts on the strange time of year that is mid-August, and some of what’s been keeping us entertained lately (books, TV, podcasts, and more!). Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Aug 10, 2021 |
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Working Motherhood & Behind The Scenes At The Mom Hour: Voices 63 With Amanda Park
00:45:55
Today’s guest is a working mom with three kids under five, a career journey punctuated by curiosity and leaps of faith, and a brand new role as Content Manager for The Mom Hour! Please help us welcome Amanda Park to the team, and join us for a conversation that covers her working mom journey through several big industries, how she found The Mom Hour as a listener (and eventually joined our team), and what it’s been like working behind the scenes as we expand our content goals this summer. We also chat about personality stuff, Amanda’s current wins and challenges in the trenches of motherhood, and offer a sneak peek into what’s coming up this fall with our new team of contributors. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Aug 06, 2021 |
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Envisioning Your Perfect Ordinary Day: Episode 324
01:01:40
If you’ve ever fantasized about a week on a tropical island, a whole day in the spa, a winning lottery ticket, or – let’s be honest – even just a hot cup of coffee you get to finish in one sitting, you’re not alone. As busy, tired mamas it’s natural to dream about a life different from the one we’re living. But it’s also helpful, we think, to point those daydreams in a slightly more achieve-able direction, and that’s what Meagan and Sarah are doing in today’s episode. Join us as we each envision our version of a perfect, ordinary day: a day that exists within the actual framework of our current homes, jobs, cars, kids, and schedule, but where the stars align to leave us feeling especially happy and fulfilled. Play along at home and think about what key elements go into your own ideal ordinary day – it’s part fun fantasy and part food for thought. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Aug 03, 2021 |
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House Rules For Kid Birthdays: Episode 323
00:56:39
From goody bags to party guest lists, opening gifts and blowing out candles, kid birthdays go deep into your personal family culture and traditions. We firmly believe that there’s no One Right Way to celebrate, but we do know that without some parameters those celebrations can get to be … a lot. In our latest House Rules For…episode, we’re highlighting our listeners’ smart tips and hacks for keeping birthdays manageable and meaningful. Take the ones that work for you and leave the rest – this is mom-crowdsourcing at its finest! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jul 27, 2021 |
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Coping Tips For The Chronically Annoyed: Episode 322
00:55:25
Annoyed. Irritated. Short-fused. Anyone else feeling low-level grumpy lately? When it’s not an actual crisis, deep exhaustion, crippling overwhelm, or another significantly hard season of motherhood, it can be tricky to identify the reasons behind–and the strategies to help with–a bad mood. But we know one thing for sure: sometimes it helps to vent a bit. In Episode 322 of The Mom Hour, Meagan and Sarah air some very petty gripes about what’s driving us bonkers lately, and then do a little self-reflection about what triggers our annoyance, how our personalities manifest it, and how to reframe it and reset our moods. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jul 20, 2021 |
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Feeding Toddlers, Part 3: Toddler Eating Strategies, Meal By Meal
00:37:45
From breakfast to snacks, lunch to dinner to even dessert, each day holds plenty of opportunity to introduce new flavors and textures, teach table skills, and introduce micro-doses of nutrition into your toddler’s tummy. Meagan and Sarah cover each meal and the specific strategies they used to keep them interesting, low-stress, and as nutritious as possible, even when a toddler has the attention span of a fruit fly. Join us! This episode is part of our 3-part series Your Toddler Feeding Challenges, Solved! Listen to Part 1 hereand Part 2 here. LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jul 16, 2021 |
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Feeding Toddlers, Part 2: Help! I Have A Picky Eater.
00:35:09
“Picky” and “toddler” – the two words go hand-in-hand, right? In this episode Meagan and Sarah tackle one of their listeners’ biggest mom-obstacles, sharing tips and tricks to help get those opinionated toddlers to eat more adventurously and healthfully while also offering reassurance that this stage won’t last forever and that there are things you can do to help even the choosiest toddler (occasionally) try new things while getting the nutrition they need. Join us! This episode is part of our 3-part series Your Toddler Feeding Challenges, Solved! Listen to yesterday’s Part 1 here, and check back for Part 3 tomorrow. LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jul 15, 2021 |
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Feeding Toddlers, Part 1: Feeding A Toddler In Transition
00:35:04
When it comes to toddlers, one thing is certain: just when you get used to a new stage or phase, it changes. And nowhere is this more true than when it comes to how a toddler eats: from introducing new textures and foods, to weaning, to attempting self-feeding and even learning how to use cups and utensils, toddlers are in a constant state of transition – and so is the way they eat. In this first episode in our three-part series on feeding toddlers, Meagan and Sarah offer solutions to the most common struggles moms face during those transitions, as well as a healthy dose of “it’s all gonna be okay” mom-confidence. Join us! This episode is part of our 3-part series Your Toddler Feeding Challenges, Solved! Check back for Part 1 tomorrow, and Part 2 on Friday. LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jul 14, 2021 |
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Dressing & Styling Our Kids (And What Happens When They No Longer Let Us): Episode 321
00:58:16
Itty bitty overalls and doll-sized dresses make for adorable first outfits, but dressing babies (and toddlers, and kids) comfortably and stylishly throughout the ages and stages is no easy task. In Episode 321 Meagan and Sarah remember the joys and challenges of dressing our littles while they still let us (most of the time, anyway). Then we move into the realities of clothing our big kids, tweens and teens. From keeping up with sizes to choosing our battles over teen fashion that baffles our mom-brains, the refrain is familiar: it doesn’t get easier, it just gets…different. Join us for a fun conversation about kids and fashion! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jul 13, 2021 |
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Preparing For Disaster (Without Scaring Your Family): Voices 62 With Red Cross VP Jennifer Pipa
00:50:41
Wildfires, hurricanes, floods and tornadoes; home emergencies, local disasters and national crises. These aren’t things we love to think about, but they do have one thing in common: having a plan and talking about it as a family can bring peace of mind and even save lives. In this month’s Voice interview Sarah chats with Jennifer Pipa, Vice President of Disaster Programs for the Red Cross. With an emphasis on making disaster preparedness practical for busy families, applicable no matter where in the world you live or what risks your natural climate brings, and as un-scary as possible for little kids, Jennifer is full of tips and information to help you up your preparedness this summer. It’s an important conversation, and one we’ve had many requests for over the years; enjoy, friends! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jul 09, 2021 |
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Never Thought The Day Would Come…: Episode 320
00:54:18
It feels like it’ll be like this forever, but we’re here to tell you: it won’t. In today’s episode Meagan and Sarah take turns sharing big and small transformations our kids have undergone that leave us shaking our heads in total amazement because, at one point in time, we never thought we’d ever see this day. From an ultra-fearful preschooler who turned out to be a super confident kid, to the wild-toddler-turned-chill-teen, to the sibling pairs who fought like crazy and now are best friends, we’re talking about all the times we’ve been proven wrong by our own assumptions over the years. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jul 06, 2021 |
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House Rules For Travel And Vacation: Episode 319
00:55:55
Who needs RULES on vacation? Turns out, we do. And we’re not alone. The latest episode in our House Rules For… series is all about the rules that keep our families sane when we’re not at home. From road trip snack management to beach house screen time, treats on the airplane to getting out of the gift shop without a meltdown, listen to Episode 319 for hard-earned experience from parents in our community. As always, take what works for you and leave the rest – there’s something here for nearly every family. Enjoy, friends! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jun 29, 2021 |
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Listener Questions (Vol. 33): Episode 318
00:54:21
Is it EVER appropriate to correct another mom’s car seat buckling technique? A listener wants to hear Meagan and Sarah’s thoughts on whether we feel comfortable offering unsolicited safety tips to other parents. Another mom asks our thoughts on how you distribute your parenting energy evenly when one kid is really struggling and others are “just bopping along”. We also talk about how to get through the day as a mom when you’re the one struggling, and finish out the episode with advice for containing a super-creative kid’s projects and experiments. It’s another Listener Questions episode – enjoy, friends! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jun 22, 2021 |
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More Than Mom: Hitting The Beach (At Home or On Vacation)
01:02:28
Meagan and Sarah both live in beach towns – but very different ones. Today’s More Than Mom episode invites you to come to our areas for a visit – and head to the beach! We talk about what it’s like to live in a beach area generally, and in our towns specifically, and offer tips for making a day at the beach fit with your idea of fun (yes, even with kids!). From parking to hotels, what to bring and when to go, we have locals-only insights that will help you think through your next trip to the beach – even if it’s not to Santa Barbara or Saint Joe. We finish up the episode by talking about the beach-related products we’re using currently, as well as some we have our eye on. Happy Summer, friends! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jun 20, 2021 |
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Listener Questions (Vol. 32): Episode 317
00:53:10
A mom of tweens asks Meagan and Sarah whether we require our own kids to keep their rooms tidy (we have thoughts!); another listener dealing with cultural and generational divides in her family asks our thoughts on how to handle well-meaning grandparent advice. Finally, we coach a new-to-preschool mom on how to begin setting up playdates and social opportunities when you don’t know anyone at the school (and are emerging from a global pandemic). Join us for another installment of Listener Questions & Our Advice! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jun 15, 2021 |
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The One Where Our Kids Are Broken (Casts, Stitches, Crutches & More): Episode 316
00:55:06
By pure coincidence, BOTH Meagan and Sarah have kids with broken bones right now – so we’re here to talk about it! We discuss the current injury situation in each of our homes, and reflect back on other kid-injuries that have occupied that tricky space in between “rub some dirt on it” and “call the ambulance”. From stitches to sprains, bumps to the head and busted lips, we know raising kids involves a lot of injuries, and that it can be tough on parents to know what to do in the moment. Today’s stories all ended well – we promise! – but we’re here to validate that parenting an injured kid can be tough, both in the moment of decision as well as in the aftermath. Join us! MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
Jun 08, 2021 |
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More Than Mom: Meagan and Sarah At Our Bests & Worsts
01:07:00
From bad hair to failed friendships to terrible taste in music, there are some phases of our lives that, in hindsight, were just kind of the worst. Other eras we look back on fondly, whether it was because our social lives were dazzling or our fashion sense just worked. In today’s More Than Mom episode Meagan and Sarah look back at our lives – both before motherhood, and also since becoming a mom – and declare our Bests and Worsts in style, culture, and friendships. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jun 06, 2021 |
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Running Marathons & Raising Boys: Voices 61 with Lindsey Hein
00:52:05
Lindsey Hein is a lifelong runner with more than 16 marathons to her name, including several Boston Marathon finishes. She’s also mom to four busy boys, ages two to eight, and host of a popular podcast for runners. In this month’s Voices episode Lindsey chats with Meagan about training for races with four little kids, how her podcasting side hustle grew into a network of shows (including a parenting podcast!), and why she made the tough decision to have a prophylactic mastectomy after finding out she was positive for the BRCA 2 gene mutation when her oldest son was 16 months old. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jun 04, 2021 |
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A Summertime Chores, Life Skills & Freedoms Reset: Episode 315
00:56:30
We’ve noticed something: the end of school and start of summer always makes it suddenly clear how dang much our kids have grown. They’re smarter, they’re taller, they’re more capable, and all that means…it’s time to level up! We think summer is a great time to teach new life skills, reset chores and responsibilities, and also grant expanded freedoms to growing kids. In Episode 315 Meagan and Sarah talk about summer resets generally, and Summer 2021 more specifically – what our kids are ready for, where they need some support in the independence department, and how we’re planning on expanding their worlds this summer. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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Jun 01, 2021 |
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House Rules For Sibling Harmony: Episode 314
00:52:26
Having a house rule gives parents a shorthand for handling the same small annoyance the same way, every time. Will it stop your kids from fighting over the coveted “fishy cup” or arguing over whose turn it is to set the table? It will not. But it WILL allow you to consistently apply the same judiciary process (and one that feels right to YOU) each time kids start to go at it, which can cut down on a lot of mental gymnastics for mom. The beauty of house rules is that they’re born from necessity and are unique to each family, so in today’s episode we’re including smart ideas from dozens of our community members, all in the pursuit of House Rules For Sibling Harmony. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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May 25, 2021 |
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Month-By-Month Memories Of Baby’s First Year: Episode 313
00:48:19
So many firsts, so many outgrown outfits, so many unforgettable mom-moments, and so much MESS. Join Meagan and Sarah as we walk month-by-month through a baby’s first year of life, sharing our personal memories as well as general thoughts on what makes each month unique. If you’re beyond the infant years, we hope this will offer a little trip down your own nostalgic memory lane; if you’re in the middle of baby-land, we hope you feel seen and validated. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
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May 18, 2021 |
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More Than Mom: #Influenced
00:55:28
From swimsuits to fitness programs, nail polish to meal delivery, we admit: we’re influenceable. But there’s a lot to unpack about the concept of influencer marketing and influencer culture in general. In today’s More Than Mom episode Meagan and Sarah talk about about the silly stuff (like the kind of ads the algorithm INSISTS on delivering us) and also the more substantial (like the ways in which we’ve been positively influenced by friends, both IRL and on the Internet). Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:
MORE HELPFUL LINKS:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. |
May 16, 2021 |
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BONUS: Re-Learning How To Learn (And Teach!) At The College Level
00:38:35
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