Get Mom Ready Podcast

Click above to listen on Apple or click HERE to listen on Spotify.Show Notes: What we Talked About + Coaching Link There are some parts of motherhood that aren’t necessarily hard because they’re huge.They’re hard because they happen every single day.Dinner. Bedtime. School pickup. Getting out the door. Managing expectations for a “fun” weekend. Thinking about the thing you have to do later… five hours before you actually have to do it.And the very real thing that happened to Holly 2 minutes into our recording…getting the dreaded call from school that your kid has a fever and needs to come home. Cue rescheduling the afternoon meetings, cancelling your productive afternoon, and embracing the call of motherhood.In this week’s episode, we ended up talking about all of it: meal planning, bedtime checklists, school pickup resets, Disney World expectations, and the mental pressure moms carry before anything has even happened yet.And honestly? That’s kind of the point.Because so often, the issue isn’t that we’re doing motherhood “wrong.”It’s that there’s too much friction built into the way we’re trying to do it.Sometimes the most helpful question isn’t:“How do I become better at this?”Sometimes it’s:“Why does this feel so hard in the first place?”This episode is full of the kinds of practical, real-life shifts that come from asking that question.A few of the things we talked through:* taking the pressure off the belief that you have to do something because “that mom” does it* creating a “bank” of meals instead of having to make the decision from scratch each week* noticing where the friction is in your routine and adjusting from there* stopping work 10–15 minutes before pickup to reset your brain before mom mode* preparing kids for what’s coming instead of assuming they’ll just roll with it* holding expectations loosely so one hard moment doesn’t define the whole experienceOne of our favorite takeaways from this conversation was this:“The goal isn’t perfection. It’s reducing friction.”That tiny mindset shift feels small, but it changes a lot.Because once you stop forcing yourself into a system that doesn’t work for your brain, you can actually build one that does.Maybe that looks like taking the pressure off of perfect routine.Maybe it looks like doing more with other moms to make the “daily grind” more fun.Maybe it looks like buying pre-chopped onions and calling it a win.Maybe it looks like realizing your kids don’t need the most elaborate plan to have fun, they just need a mom who isn’t completely maxed out.That’s really what this episode is about: getting curious about the pressure points instead of just powering through them.And maybe, just maybe, giving yourself permission to make things easier.Because you’re allowed to do that.You’re allowed to choose the version of motherhood that works for your actual capacity.You’re allowed to prepare more (or less).You’re allowed to expect less perfection.You’re allowed to care about your experience too.And if you’ve been feeling like every routine in your life has just a little too much drag in it right now, this episode will probably feel very familiar.And if this conversation hits a little too close to home, coaching might be the next right step. We offer coaching calls for moms who want practical support, fresh perspective, and help untangling the mental load. You can book a call here.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.comWhat if the thing making motherhood feel so hard… isn’t just the workload?What if part of the exhaustion is coming from spending your energy on things you don’t actually value, but feel like you’re supposed to?Anna came in with a simple question:“How do I figure out my values in motherhood?”Not in a fluffy way.In a “my days feel chaotic and I’m barely keeping up” kind of way.What unfolded is a conversation every mom needs about misalignment, mental load, and the things we’re doing just because we think we should.The real problem (that no one tells you)You might not be overwhelmed because you’re doing too much.You might be overwhelmed because: you’re doing things that aren’t actually important to you, but you feel like they should be.And that gap? That’s where burnout lives.The example we couldn’t stop coming back to: DINNERMeal planning. Grocery shopping. Cooking. Cleaning. Repeating.Anna said what we’re all thinking:“I have a system for meal planning and prep… and I still hate doing it.”And that’s the tension:* The system works* But it’s built around something she doesn’t actually valueSo instead of asking:“How do I get better at this?”We asked:“Do you even want to keep doing this?”What we uncovered (aka the actually helpful part)1. Start with what you don’t valueAnna realized:* Home-cooked meals every night? Not it for her* Eating together / eating nutritious meals / quality time? YesThat shift matters.Because when you stop forcing what isn’t yours,you finally have space for what is.2. Systems don’t fix misalignmentYou can optimize your routine all day long, but if it’s built around obligation, you will still feel exhausted.Alignment first. Systems second.3. You’re not just low on time, you’re low on energySome things don’t just take time…They take so much mental and emotional energy:* decision fatigue* guilt* resentmentAnd when your day is full of those things?Of course you feel maxed out.Try this instead of spiraling: get curiousInstead of:“Why can’t I just do this like everyone else?”Try:“Hmm… where did I learn that this matters? Who’s voice am I listening to? How can I find what matters to me and focus more on doing that well?”That one question can unravel a LOT.4. You might be discovering yourself for the first timeSome moms feel like they just want to get back to “their old selves,” you know, pre-kids. And some of us feel like we never even figured out who we were in the first place.* what we like* what we value* what we wantAnd honestly? That’s allowed to take time.5. The simplest test: do you clench or exhale?When you imagine not doing “the thing”…* Do you feel tight, stressed, resistant? → 🚩* Or do you feel relief, space, ease? → 👀That exhale? That’s data. Recognize it and start figuring out what does bring you joy if you want to start prioritizing your life around your values.Of course, there are some jobs in life we just have to do, but for the most part, we get to decide what we pursue, what we spend energy on, and how we do those things to maximize joy in the process.Okay but what do I DO with this?We didn’t just stay theoretical. Here’s where this lands practically:If dinner is draining you:* Try meal delivery for a season* Use pre-made grocery options* Repeat meals you already know work* Lower the bar (a lot)* Or outsource where you canAnd most importantly, take the time to learn what does put food on the table in a life-giving way for YOU.Because maybe your value isn’t cooking from scratch.Maybe it’s having energy left at the end of the day or enjoying time with your family.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.If this episode felt a little too relatable…If you’re:* constantly overwhelmed by decisions* doing things out of guilt* unsure what actually matters to you anymoreYou don’t need another hack.You need:* space to think* someone to process with* permission to do things differentlyThat’s what coaching is for.You can book a call with Hannah or Meredith here.Links & things we mentioned* The blow dryer/shark-airwrap situation… if you know, you know. We were influenced in real time 😂* If you want to go deeper on the time vs. energy conversation, revisit the Jennifer Sise episode. It pairs perfectly with this one and will reframe how you think about capacity.* If this episode stirred up identity questions like “what do I even like anymore?”, the Priscila Smith episode is a must-listen. It’s one of our best conversations on rediscovering yourself and your style.* When Meredith referenced looking at finances before outsourcing meals, that came from the Becca Gonzalez episode - super practical if you’re trying to make changes without blowing your budget.* The book True to You came up as a next step if you want to go deeper on identity, boundaries, and understanding your own patterns in relationships.* For our Houston moms, Tr

Click above to listen on Apple or click HERE to listen on Spotify.Show Notes: What we Talked About + ProductsThis week on Get Mom Ready, we started with a travel horror story.Airport chaos.A toddler meltdown on a plane.And a mom crying under a blanket mid-flight.You know… the usual.But somewhere in the middle of swapping travel stories, the conversation turned into something bigger:How do we actually set ourselves up for success as moms?Not just when traveling.But anytime we’re trying to juggle work, motherhood, logistics, identity, and our own sanity.This episode is one of those conversations where we start talking about travel……and end up talking about support systems, guilt, experimentation, and what it takes to feel present in our own lives.Also, purely by accident, all three of us showed up wearing denim.Completely unplanned.Completely on brand for moms everywhere.So if you want to witness the accidental Denim Day, you can watch the episode at GetMomReady.com.In this episode we talk about…What it actually looks like to navigate travel as a mom.The logistics.The emotions.The unexpected curveballs.We get into:• traveling with kids vs. without them• preparing caregivers before you leave• the difference between real guilt and fear of what other people might think• the tiny logistical decisions that dramatically reduce mental load• how to ask for help without apologizing for it• why a spirit of experimentation might be one of the healthiest mindsets in motherhoodAnd yes, we also talk about what happens when your kid gets the flu on a work trip and you find yourself in an ER at 2 AM in Tampa.Motherhood keeps things humble.The mindset we keep coming back toOne of the biggest themes that came up in this conversation was something we all want to hold onto more:The spirit of experimentation.Instead of asking:“Am I doing this the right way?”What if we asked:“What happens if I try this?”Motherhood changes constantly.What works when your baby is 6 months oldmight not work when they’re 2.What worked last yearmight not work this year.Experimentation gives you permission to:• try something• learn from it• adjust• change your mindAnd honestly? That might be one of the most freeing parenting tools there is.A few things that actually helpedA lot of what made travel feel doable weren’t huge life changes.They were small, practical decisions.A caregiver “playbook”Before leaving, we talked about how helpful it can be to create a shared note with things like:• routines• preferences• school logistics• important contacts• pet instructions• random household things you don’t want someone guessing aboutNot because everything has to be perfect.But because preparation helps everyone breathe easier.Identifying your triggersEvery parent has a couple of things that spike their anxiety more than others.For some it’s choking.For others it’s driving.For others it’s sleep.Instead of pretending those concerns don’t exist, sometimes it helps to just name them.Sometimes readiness looks like saying:“Hey, this is one of my things. Will you humor me?”It’s not about control.It’s about giving your nervous system a little more peace.Making travel lighter (literally)One travel tip that came up in the episode was a portable car seat option that made traveling so much easier.The RideSafer Travel Vest works like a wearable car seat and folds into a small bag.If you’ve ever tried to manage a toddler, a suitcase, a backpack, and a giant car seat through an airport… you know why this matters.When the plan falls apartOf course, motherhood loves to test our plans.In this case, everything was going perfectly…until a toddler woke up throwing up at 1 AM.Cue the ER visit.Cue the Uber ride in the middle of the night.Cue the moment where you think:“Why did I think traveling with a toddler was a good idea?”But the interesting thing?Even in the chaos, the takeaway wasn’t “never do this again.”It was actually the opposite.Sometimes the things we’re most nervous about are the things that remind us:We can handle more than we think.A reminder about support systemsAnother theme that kept surfacing in this conversation:People often want to help more than we realize.Grandparents who love extra time with grandkids.Friends who are willing to be “on call.”Partners who hold down the fort.We’re not meant to do motherhood alone.And sometimes the bravest thing we can do is simply let people show up for us.If this episode resonatedWe’d love to hear from you.Tell us:• what season of motherhood you’re in• what you’re experimenting with right now• what topics you want us to cover nextYou can reach us at: [email protected] if you’re in a season where work, motherhood, identity, and life logistics all feel like they’re colliding…we offer Get Mom Ready coaching.You can book a discovery call and choose the coach who feels like the best fit for your season here.If this conversation resonated…You’re exactly who Get Mom Ready is for.Every week we share honest conversations about

Click above to listen on Apple or click HERE to listen on Spotify.Show Notes: What we Talked About + ProductsHey friends! welcome back to Get Mom Ready.It’s the trio holding it down today: Meredith, Hannah, and Anna (Holly will be back!). And yes—today’s audio is a little different: Meredith is traveling and packing light, so her volume is a bit quieter than usual. Turn it up when she’s talking because she drops some of the best mental shifts in the episode.Last week we talked about something counterintuitive: sometimes the most productive thing you can do is… nothing. Step back. Put the phone away. Regulate. Stop letting constant input run your day.This week we’re holding the “both/and”:You can give yourself permission to slow down… and still want to feel more productive.Not “hustle harder” productive —More like: less pulled, less cluttered, less irritated, more present.Because honestly? That’s what most of us want.The theme of this episode: Stop living like everything is urgent.We kept coming back to this word: pulled.Pulled by:* texts* notifications* rabbit trails* “I’ll just do this one quick thing…”* the never-ending mental tabs open in your brainAnd when we’re pulled in ten directions, we end up doing life slightly irritated… even when nothing is actually wrong.So today we talk about what’s actually helping right now — the tiny shifts that reduce mental load and decision fatigue.1) The “leave your phone somewhere else” experimentWe all shared some version of this: physically separating from your phone.Examples from the episode:* leaving your phone in another room during the morning routine* leaving it inside while you play outside after school* charging it in an office (not your bedroom)* treating it like a “landline” — you have to go to it to use itAnd the surprising benefit?Less irritation.Because your kids aren’t interrupting your phone/podcast/text spiral… you’re just with them.No tug-of-war.2) Turn off notifications (and take your power back)We’re not saying “be unreachable.” We’re saying: you get to decide when the world gets access to your attention.One line we loved:“I want to happen to life. I don’t want life to happen to me.”Start small:* turn off Instagram + Substack notifications* mute the noisiest group chats* keep only calls/texts on (or set emergency contacts)This is one of the fastest ways to reduce “everything feels urgent” energy.3) Think one step ahead (not ten)This was Meredith’s core practical shift, and it’s so good:If planning overwhelms you… don’t plan the week.Just think one step ahead.Examples:* prep breakfast the night before* decide lunch while you’re eating breakfast* close curtains + turn on the sound machine before nap time chaos hits* boil extra eggs while you’re already boiling one* chop fruit/veg at night while you’re already cleaning the kitchenIt’s not about becoming a “planner.”It’s about reducing friction so you’re not living in constant scramble mode.4) Time-block your phone the way you time-block your lifeThis might be the most helpful mindset shift for anyone who keeps their inbox at “zero” (hi, Anna 🙋‍♀️):Instead of responding to everything all day long…create a few phone windows.Like:* 11:30–12:00 = texts + DMs* 3:00–3:15 = quick check-in* 8:30–9:00 = respond + catch upBecause being “caught up” isn’t the goal.Being present is.Side note: If you haven’t listened yet, go back to our episode with Jennifer Sise. It ties in perfectly to this chat. We talked about what it looks like to stop living in reactive mode, create intentional rhythms, and make decisions from a grounded place instead of a frantic one.5) A gentle reminder: the goal isn’t perfect systemsWe even said it out loud: we didn’t give “30 hot productivity tips” today.But we did name what’s underneath all of this:* reducing sensory input* creating boundaries around attention* choosing tiny systems that calm your nervous system* making the next right step easierAnd that’s the real productivity hack.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free subscriber.Try this today (one tiny action)Pick just one:* Put your phone in another room for 60 minutes* Turn off notifications for one app* Write down the Amazon/to-do rabbit trail instead of doing it immediately* Prep one thing tonight that future-you will thank you forIf you try something from this episode, tell us what you notice. We really do want to learn alongside you.Listen + keep in touchYou can listen to the full episode wherever you get podcasts, or on our site: getmomready.com (you’ll also find our articles + resources there).If this episode made you exhale even a little… send it to a mom friend who’s living with 47 tabs open.And if you want to take this week’s advice to a more practical level, book a coaching call with Hannah, Meredith, Holly, or Anna to talk through the mental load you’re carrying and create simple systems that make your days feel lighter.We’ll see you next week.

Before we go any further, let’s say this out loud:You are not “too sensitive.”You are overstimulated.Your phone is buzzing.The news is loud.The group chat is on fire.Your calendar is full.Your kids need snacks.Dinner isn’t made.And somewhere in the middle of all of it… you snap.Not because you’re a bad mom.Not because you don’t care.But because your nervous system was never designed for this much input.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.We Were Built for Acute Stress, Not Constant StressThousands of years ago, stress came in short bursts.A threat.A reaction.A recovery.Adrenaline up.Adrenaline down.Now?The stress never fully resolves.The notifications don’t stop.The news cycle doesn’t slow down.The scroll never ends.Your body is staying in a low-grade state of fight-or-flight…and then your child spills milk and you feel like you might explode.It’s not about the milk.It’s about the cumulative load.The Part We Don’t Talk AboutThere’s guilt, too.Guilt for turning the news off.Guilt for not being “in the know.”Guilt for having calm when others don’t.But guilt doesn’t regulate your nervous system.And it doesn’t help the world.You can care deeply about what’s happening and still protect your peace.Those are not opposites.If You’re Snapping More Than You Want To, Start HereNot with shame.Not with a new productivity system.Not with a 45-minute meditation you don’t have time for.Start with evaluation.Ask yourself:* What am I allowing into my day?* Is this input helping me live according to my values?* Do I need this much information to be a good mom? A good citizen? A good human?Most of us aren’t overwhelmed because we care.We’re overwhelmed because we have unlimited access to everything, all the time.And no one else is setting limits for us.PS. Don’t stop here. If you want super practical tools for evaluating your life and reducing decision fatigue, don’t miss our conversation with our favorite Productivity Coach Jennifer Sise. It pairs perfectly with this one.Small Ways to Regulate (Even in the Chaos)You don’t need a silent house.You need reps.* Leave your phone plugged in and walk into the next room without it.* Mute the group chat for an hour.* Decide when you will consume news instead of letting it consume you.* Go outside without your phone.* Do something with your hands (puzzles, folding laundry slowly, cooking, painting, organizing a drawer).It will feel uncomfortable at first.That’s not failure.That’s your nervous system detoxing from constant stimulation.The TruthYou cannot carry the entire world and the mental load of your household at the same time.You are allowed to:* Be informed without being flooded.* Care without being consumed.* Protect your nervous system so you can show up regulated for your kids.This isn’t about ignoring reality.It’s about remembering that your children deserve a regulated mother more than they need a mother who knows every headline.And you deserve peace in your own home.If this landed somewhere tender for you, we’d love to hear it.Have you noticed yourself snapping more because of the overwhelm on your phone?What’s helped you regulate lately?Reply here or send us a message on instagram.P.S. A big thank you to Pediped for sponsoring this episode. If you’re looking for developmentally healthy, truly kid-friendly shoes (that your nervous system doesn’t have to fight over), you can get 20% off your first purchase with code MOMREADY at pediped.com.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

If you’ve ever found yourself doing the “invisible work” of your home while also trying to keep everyone alive, fed, and emotionally okay… this episode is for you.This week, Meredith, Hannah, and Anna talk about what’s underneath “I’m fine, I’ve got it,” and why asking for help often feels harder than just doing the thing (even when we’re drowning).Holly is traveling this week, but we’ll be circling back soon to unpack what this season of travel has been like for her, with and without Iris.What we’re really talking about: asking for help in real lifeThis episode isn’t a “make a better chore chart” conversation. It’s about the lived experience of motherhood where:* your brain is carrying 47 tabs open* your body is overstimulated by the end of the day* resentment starts to feel like a pressure in your chest* and you can’t even find the words to say what you need… until you’re already past capacityWe talk about how to notice what’s happening sooner, how to ask more directly, and how to do it in a way that invites partnership instead of defensiveness.Here are the big themes we address.1. “Take responsibility for the help you need.”That sentence hit because it’s not about blaming anyone—it’s about recognizing: my system is overloaded, and I need to say so out loud.Not passive aggression. Not storming around. Not silently keeping score.Just the brave, honest moment of:“I feel like I’m carrying a lot. Can we talk about where we can shift things?”Anna referenced a really helpful Big Little Feelings Substack post that captures the “default parent” tension so well. Here’s the link.2. The “behind the sink” resentmentMeredith named something so many of us feel but don’t always know how to explain:Sometimes our partner is “helping”… but we’re still the CEO of the kitchen (or the parenting, laundry, decisions, etc.).And when you’re always the person behind the sink, it can start to feel like your home runs on your constant, unending effort.The need wasn’t “help more.” It was more specific:“I want you to step in and take the main task. I’ll be the support role for a minute.”That clarity changes everything.3. A reframe that actually helps: “It’s too much for both of us.”We said it plainly: parenting is a lot, even with two engaged adults.When you start from “we’re both carrying a lot,” the conversation becomes:* less accusatory* more collaborative* more honest about realityAnd it opens the door to solutions that feel sustainable instead of combative.A few scripts you can steal* Name it early (neutral + direct):“I’m starting to feel overloaded. Can we look at what’s on my plate today?”* Share impact (without blame):“When I’m doing dishes after bedtime every night, I’m exhausted and we lose our time together.”* Ask for one specific shift (not a full life overhaul):“Can you take nighttime dishes this week? I can’t do the kitchen one more time today.”* Make the work an expectation, not a favor:“This is what our family needs to run. Everyone has a role.”Have a friend who could use these scripts? Share the post.Use tools that remove guessworkFair Play cards (mentioned in the episode) can help you see what’s being carried—and decide who owns what based on capacity and what each person doesn’t mind doing (or even enjoys).It’s not about “perfectly equal.” It’s about “clear and agreed.”Consider outsourcing without shameSometimes the most loving solution is: stop trying to do it all with zero support.Meal help. Laundry help. A babysitter for two hours. A cleaner once a month. Even one recurring outsourced task can change the temperature of your whole home.BTS: We also discuss inviting your kids to help you.A gentle reminder we all neededSome seasons are temporary.Some tasks are forever.And both are easier when you stop trying to be the only functioning adult in the building.If you’re feeling resentful, overstimulated, or chronically behind, it might not mean you’re failing.It might mean you need help. (And you’re allowed to ask for it.)We want to hear from youIf you have:* a script that works in your house* a way you split responsibilities that actually stuck* a system that lowered your mental load* or a future topic you want us to coverSend it to us. We really do build episodes and resources from what you tell us.And if something in this episode hit close to home and you want support, you can book a coaching session with any of us.Today’s episode is sponsored by Pediped—shoes designed to support growing feet, and they’ve been awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association.If you’re looking for kid shoes with more room for toes to move (and a better fit for real-life kid feet), check them out. Use code MOMREADY for 20% off your first order.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free subscriber! Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Money is one of those topics that can feel instantly overwhelming, especially in motherhood, when you’re juggling a million decisions and your brain is already full.In this episode, we brought on Becca Gonzalez (The Money Girls) to make money feel simple, doable, and even kind of fun.Becca shares how she went from bringing $90,000 of debt into her marriage (and becoming a full-blown “every dollar has a job” enforcer) to building a money system that helped her marriage feel like a team again, and helped her clients stop avoiding their accounts and start making confident decisions.This is not a boring finance episode.This is a “your shoulders drop and you think, oh… I can do this” episode.We cover a lot…1. The money shift that changes everything: understanding what’s happeningBecca’s core message is simple:When you understand what your money is doing, you stop being afraid of it.So many of us are living in:* “I think we’re fine?”* “I don’t want to look.”* “It’s probably bad.”Becca calls this moving from drama to data.When you look at the numbers, it’s almost never as catastrophic as your brain has convinced you it is. And once you know what’s happening? You can actually move forward.Becca shared that in six years of coaching, only a couple of clients were in as bad of a situation as they feared.Most women are spiraling emotionally… while the numbers are manageable.And even if they aren’t? Once you know, you can build a plan.Clarity is power.Becca Tip: If you’re wondering where your money is going, she says historically it’s usually:* Groceries* Eating out* Convenience (hello, Amazon)The good news?Those are controllable.You don’t have to eliminate joy, just decide consciously.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.2. Investing in yourself: Is there a “golden ratio”?One of you asked:How much is too much to gamble on starting a business? Is there a golden ratio?Becca’s answer? There isn’t a magic percentage — but there are grounding questions:* Does money already feel tight?* Do you have any savings buffer?* Are you investing in retirement (or moving in that direction)?* Is this decision coming from fear/scarcity… or clarity and alignment?If you invest while panicked, you’ll likely pressure yourself to earn it back immediately, and that pressure can sabotage your growth.But if you invest from stability and intention? That’s a very different story.She also reframed ROI:Sometimes the return isn’t just financial.Sometimes it’s clarity. Confidence. Direction.And knowing what you don’t want to replicate.3. Getting on the Same Page With Your PartnerThis is where it got really good.Becca sees two common scenarios:* You share life, but not finances* You share life and finances, but you’re not alignedHer biggest lesson from her own marriage?You can’t drag someone into money peace.You can go first.You can model consistency.But you can’t control.Try This: The “Values List”Each partner separately writes 1–5 things they genuinely want to spend money on.Then come together and explain the why behind each one.It turns:“That’s dumb.”Into:“Oh… I didn’t realize that mattered to you.”It shifts the conversation from numbers to meaning.Holly shared that the Fair Play system has been helpful for dividing responsibilities (including money ownership) with less resentment and more clarity.If you’ve never seen it, it’s a card deck and system designed to help couples divide household labor intentionally. You can find it here.4. The Money Rhythms That Actually WorksA. If “weekly money meeting” makes you want to cry, Becca suggests:* Set a timer for 15 minutes* Have a tiny agenda* Make one decision* StopThat’s it.You can build from there. But start small.B. Envelope System vs. Counting UpBecca gave a mindset shift that blew our minds.When you use envelopes, you’re often counting down:“I only have $25 left.”When you budget intentionally, you count up:“I get to spend up to $X.”Same math.Very different psychology.C. Kids + Money: Skills Over Safety NetsWe also talked about saving for kids.529? Trusts? Custodial accounts?Becca’s perspective was powerful:Before opening up any kind of account, determine your family values.She goes much deeper into this on the pod.Becca’s also gave us one game-changing tip for teaching kids wise spending… and stopping the constant “Can I have that?” battle at checkout. Don’t miss this in the episode.A Perspective Shift We’re Still Thinking AboutHolly shared a fact that stopped us:The Equal Credit Opportunity Act passed in 1974, meaning women couldn’t independently access credit without a male co-signer until then.That’s not ancient history.If money feels intimidating… we are still culturally very new to full financial autonomy.Grace. For all of us.Connect With BeccaIf you NEED a Becca in your life or want to check out her offerings, Becca lives mostly on Instagram and is new to TikTok.Learn about her membership + free ch

Holly’s onsite with a client today, so it’s just Anna + Hannah + Meredith on the mic, talking about something that quietly shapes your whole motherhood experience:Friendship.Not “how to make more mom friends.”But how to know who’s safe… and how to be safe when someone hands you something tender.Because motherhood has a way of turning friendship into both:* lifeline* and landmineAnd a lot of us are carrying a low-grade question in the background of our lives:Who can I really bring my real life to?The word we’re side-eyeing: “loyalty”We started with a spicy-ish take from Anna:“Loyalty” feels like a weird expectation to place on friendship.Not because commitment isn’t beautiful, but because friendship isn’t a contract.When people say “I value loyalty,” sometimes what they mean is:* “I need you to prove you’re on my side.”* “I need you to show up the same way forever.”* “I need you to be available when I’m not.”* “Don’t change. Don’t drift. Don’t evolve.”And motherhood will absolutely test that.We talked about the difference between:* desire (“I miss you. I wish we had more time.”)* expectation (“If you cared, you would.”)That line matters.Thanks for reading Get Mom Ready! This post is public so feel free to share it.A safe friend doesn’t demand your nervous systemOne of the most freeing ideas in the episode:A safe friend understands that availability can’t be “drop everything, always.”Instead of “prove you’re loyal,” a safe friendship sounds like:* “Do you have it to give right now?”* “Can I put something here?”* “Do you want validation or feedback?”* “No pressure to respond fast, I just needed to say it.”That’s not distance. That’s respect.The most practical tool we sharedHannah brought in something we wish every adult friendship had language for:Before someone shares something hard, ask:What do you want right now?* Validation?* Support?* Feedback?* Suggestions?* A solution?* Just a place to vent?Because a lot of friendship tension isn’t “bad friend energy.”It’s misaligned expectations:* One person is venting.* The other is fixing.* Someone leaves feeling unseen.* Someone leaves feeling rejected.This one question fixes so much.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.How do you know someone is safe?We didn’t give a cute listicle answer… because honestly, you learn over time.But some clear “tells” came up:Safe friends tend to:* treat other people’s stories with care (no “she wouldn’t mind me telling you…”)* disagree respectfully (no contempt, no reduction)* handle your hard moments without pearl-clutching* let you be human without making it about them* disappoint you sometimes… and let you disappoint them sometimes (without punishment)Safety isn’t perfection.Safety is trust + emotional maturity + respect.Next week: money talk (anonymous + no questions off the table)We have a finance guru joining us next week and no questions are off the table and everything stays anonymous.Send anything you want us to ask to [email protected] and we’ll get answers on next week’s episode.Question for you (comment and tell us)When you think about a “safe friend,” what’s the #1 trait that makes you feel like you can exhale and be fully yourself?Sponsor: Pediped makes developmentally appropriate kids shoes. Use code MOMREADY for 20% off at pediped.com. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Somehow we all wear clothes every day…And yet most of us are still getting dressed on autopilot. In the dark. Half-awake. Wondering how we became the person who owns that many black leggings.In this episode of Get Mom Ready, Holly, Hannah, and Meredith sit down with Priscila Smith (author, Substack writer (Follow her page, Put Together), and actual style whisperer) to talk about why personal style is never just clothes. It’s identity. It’s presence. It’s self-respect. And yes, it’s also a very real way to feel more grounded in your day…even if you’re sweating at the playground chasing a toddler who refuses shoes.And listen…if you’re already thinking, “This episode is not for me,” because the idea of getting ready makes you want to want to crawl in a hole…this episode is especially for you.Priscila is not here to turn you into a fashion influencer or convince you to suddenly care about trends. She’s here for the moms who are tired, overwhelmed, living in default, and just want one small, doable way to feel like themselves again, without adding a 45-minute routine to their morning.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.What we unpack in this episode1) Why what you wear actually changes how you thinkPriscila introduces enclothed cognition—the research-backed idea that what you put on your body sends signals to your brain about who you are and how you show up. Translation: this is not vanity; it’s neuroscience.2) Comfort vs. default (these are not the same thing)Leggings are not the enemy. Autopilot is. We talk about how many moms aren’t choosing comfort, they’re choosing whatever is closest to the laundry pile.3) The most honest closet question you’ll ever be askedPriscila’s rule:👉 “Would you let a friend borrow this?”If the answer is no because it’s faded, stretched, or secretly your emotional support shirt from 2012…that’s data.4) The “three style words” that simplify everythingInstead of chasing trends, pick three words that anchor your style in this season of life (one can absolutely be a feeling word like “comfortable” or “practical”). Bonus: your words are allowed to change, because, you guessed it, you’re allowed to change.5) How to look put together in real-life mom clothesWe get very practical here:• fabric quality• fit (not tight, not sloppy)• monochrome outfits• clean sneakers• layers, jewelry, hair, makeupBecause “top + bottom” is not an outfit. It’s just clothes.6) Why this actually matters more than we thinkCaring about how you show up isn’t selfish, it’s grounding. When you feel more like yourself, everyone around you benefits too.If you want a starting point (no overhaul required)* Wear one outfit you love on purpose this week* Notice how you feel at the end of the day* Look at your laundry basket. What do you keep reaching for, and why?* Add a “third piece” to your go-to casual look* If you’re wearing black leggings…please bless the community with a lint roller 😄You’re welcome.Links & resources mentioned* Priscila Smith’s book: Put Together: It’s Never Just Clothes* Priscila’s Substack: Put Together* Instagram: @priscila_c_smith (one “L,” very important detail)* Sponsor: pediped — use code MOMREADY for 20% off your first orderPriscila also shared that she’s not currently taking 1:1 clients, but if that changes, you’ll hear it first through her Substack.If you loved this episode, send it to a mom friend who’s doing the “oversized tee + chaos bun + survival mode” thing on repeat…and doesn’t realize she deserves better than her 2014 faded leggings. Thanks for reading Get Mom Ready! This post is public so feel free to share it. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Sometimes the most “emotionally healthy” thing you can do as a mom is admit the truth: you’re overwhelmed, you’re over-functioning, and social media is not helping.In this episode, Holly, Hannah, and Meredith sit down with Alli Worthington (author, speaker, business coach (Holly’s actual business coach!), and mom of five) to talk about what it looks like to become an emotionally healthy mom… so we can raise emotionally healthy kids.What we unpack in this conversation1) Why moms feel so much guilt (and why it’s getting worse)Alli doesn’t mince words: social media can be toxic for moms. Because your brain starts believing “everybody is doing everything,” when you’re really watching a highlight reel + a business model.Instead, find your trusted people, and go to them when things feel merky.2) Confidence doesn’t come first… reps come firstWe talk about how confidence is built through action, mistakes, and evidence over time, especially in motherhood. Stop believing the lie that one mistake can mess everything up and instead put effort into becoming the mom you want to be...over and over again.3) What “regulation” actually means in real lifeNot in a fluffy way. In a “how do I calm myself down before I snap” way.Tools that came up:* Counting down (and saying out loud what you’re doing)* Taking a pause before disciplining* Naming what’s happening in your body (hot, sweaty, escalated)* Preparing for your predictable “activation moments” (car line, dinner rush, bedtime)4) Overwhelm makes reactivity inevitableWe talk about how chronic overload pushes you into emotion-brain (amygdala) and takes your thinking-brain offline, which is why you say things you don’t even agree with later…and how to stop this hamster wheel.5) “Over-functioning” (aka: doing too darn much)One of the biggest mic-drop themes: over-functioning doesn’t just exhaust you, it quietly trains everyone around you to do less.Alli’s practical gut-check:If someone can do it 75% as well as you, let them.6) The long game: don’t make your kids your identityThis part matters: if your worth comes from being needed, you’ll accidentally rescue too much, and your kids won’t build competence or confidence.Get Mom Ready isn’t here to tell you how to parent. We’re here to help you stay connected to who you are while you’re doing it, so both you and your kids can thank you later.A question to sit with this weekWhere am I over-functioning right now… and what’s one “75% solution” I can accept without fixing it?Mentioned + linked in this episode (Alli’s stuff)* Alli’s book: Remaining You While Raising Them: The Secret Art of Confident Motherhood* Finding Your Secret Superpower Quiz* Alli’s Instagram: @alliworthington* Alli’s website: alliworthington.com* The Alli Worthington Show (podcast)If you’ve been doing everything and calling it “being a good mom,” consider this your permission slip (actually, your order) to stop over-functioning.And if you know a mom who’s drowning in decision fatigue and trying to do it all perfectly…send her this episode as a little love note. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Getting ready for maternity leave can feel like trying to plan for a season you’ve never lived before…because you are.In this episode, we kick off a multi-part conversation on preparing for maternity leave—starting with mindset and practical preparation (and keeping it very real about what you can and can’t control).What we covered:- Our different maternity leave experiences (corporate, clinical, startup, and flexible/fractional work)- Why mindset matters more than a perfect plan- Setting low (or no) expectations for the leave itself- Identifying where you fall on the spectrum: tightly wound vs. loose, and how to adjust- How to support your team/spouse/community before you step awayThe practical prep that helps most:- List what you do daily / weekly / monthly- Document simple processes and handoffs- Give people a little margin (babies love an early arrival…)Quote we loved: “Grace starts now—not the day maternity leave begins.”SponsorPediPed — kids’ shoes for every seasonUse code MOMREADY for 20% off at PediPed.comWant the full show notes + resources?We put the full breakdown (key takeaways, examples, links, and a shareable recap) on GetMomReady.com.👉 Head there for the complete show notes for Episode 17: GetMomReady.com Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

If you’ve ever thought, “If I could just get more organized, everything would feel easier,” this episode is for you.This week on Get Mom Ready, we’re welcoming someone we trust deeply and couldn’t be more excited to introduce to this community: Jennifer Sise.Jennifer is a time and productivity coach, author, podcast host, and mom who has worked with hundreds of women to help them stop managing time and start owning it. She’s also someone who understands motherhood seasons from the inside out, not from a pedestal.This conversation is honest, practical, and surprisingly gentle.It’s not about waking up earlier, doing more, or finally getting your life together.It’s about understanding why so many moms feel behind…even when they’re doing everything they can.The Real Issue Isn’t Time. It’s Decision Fatigue.One of the most grounding moments in this episode is when Jennifer names what so many of us are experiencing:When you’re making decisions all day long, you end up in chronic decision fatigue.So you default to survival mode.You get through the day, but you’re not building the life you actually want.That doesn’t mean you’re bad at time management.It means you’re tired.What You Want Is Actually PossibleJennifer gently but confidently reminds us of something many moms have stopped believing:What you want is possible.Not all at once.Not without trade-offs.And not without intentional decisions.But you don’t have to choose between being a present mom and having dreams.You don’t have to sacrifice what matters most in order to build something meaningful.You can have both.And the path forward doesn’t start with more effort…it starts with clarity.Why Structure Can Actually Feel Like ReliefThis is the counterintuitive shift many of us need:The more decisions you make in advance, the more margin you create.Structure isn’t about rigidity.It’s about fewer emotional spirals when life goes sideways (because it will).When time is already “set apart,” interruptions feel less personal and less overwhelming.The Recovery HourJennifer introduces a concept we immediately wanted to implement:A weekly recovery hour.A block of time where all the things that didn’t get done have a place to go.Because so much mom stress isn’t about unfinished tasks…it’s about feeling like there’s nowhere to put them.When there’s a plan for recovery, missed tasks stop feeling like failure and start feeling like life.The “Should” ShiftAnother powerful moment in this episode is Jennifer calling out how often we use the word should.I should be able to do more.I should be able to keep up.I should have this figured out by now.She invites us to replace should with want.Not to lower standards.But to bring honesty and ownership back into our choices.Because when you choose something because you want to, you carry it differently.A Gentler Question for the Week AheadInstead of asking:“What’s wrong with me that I can’t keep up?”Try asking:“What decision can I make in advance that would support me?”That one question has a way of quieting the noise.🎧 Listen to Episode 16 of Get Mom Ready for super practical tips on managing your time, cancelling the “shoulds” in your life, and more on the ever-freeing recovery hour.You can also connect with Jennifer here:* Instagram: @jennifersise* Podcast: In Nine Minutes* Book: It’s Only a Matter of TimeIf this episode resonated, share it with a mom who feels stretched thin right now.These conversations land differently when you don’t feel alone.You’re not behind.You’re getting ready in real time.With you,- Holly, Anna, Meredith, and Hannah Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

If you’re entering the new year already feeling behind, tired, or a little disoriented, you’re not alone.At Get Mom Ready, we’ve been hearing this from ourselves and our mom friends this month. The holidays end, routines are disrupted, inboxes are full, and suddenly there’s pressure to feel refreshed, focused, and motivated…often overnight.But for most moms, the new year doesn’t start with rest. It starts with recovery.The Expectation vs. Reality GapJanuary is often framed as a “fresh start.” New habits. New goals. A clean slate.The reality of motherhood looks different.The holiday season is full emotionally, physically, and mentally. Even when it’s joyful, it can be exhausting. So when the calendar flips and life resumes at full speed, it’s normal to feel like you’re still catching your breath.Feeling behind doesn’t mean you failed the new year. It means you’re human.How Mom Guilt Sneaks InThis time of year is especially loud when it comes to guilt.Guilt for not being more organized.Guilt for wanting quiet after weeks of togetherness.Guilt for craving structure while also missing the slower days.Guilt for not feeling as grateful or energized as you “should.”We often see guilt masquerade as motivation, but it’s a fragile fuel. It pushes hard, burns fast, and leaves moms depleted instead of supported.Redefining What It Means to Be “Ready”At Get Mom Ready, we talk often about readiness but not the kind that demands perfection or productivity.Readiness might look like:* Allowing routines to return gradually* Choosing rest before resolution* Naming what actually feels supportive in this season* Taking one honest step instead of ten forced onesMore specifically, it looks like: * Holly Tate giving herself space to do a certain number of workouts in a week rather than specific days* Anna Baker finding joy in stretching rather than high intensity workouts * Hannah Castle, LCSW giving herself permission to take a rest day from training for her half marathon (which by the way, go Hannah! We are so proud of you!)* Meredith Mayo allowing herself to not pack jeans and choose cookies over the holidays because she wants to, knowing it’s just a seasonThen Hannah gracefully challenged all of us to have self-compassion as we work toward the habits we want to build, and Meredith reminded us that we all have many links in our chain that take energy.You don’t need a perfect plan for the year.You don’t need a word, a system, or a fully mapped vision.You need space to ease back into yourself.A Gentler Question for the Week AheadInstead of asking, “What should I be doing right now?”We invite you to ask, “What would support me in this season?”That question tends to lead to quieter answers but ones that last.You’re not behind.You’re not doing it wrong.You’re getting ready in real time.🎧 Listen or watch this week’s episode of Get Mom Ready for an honest conversation about mom guilt, rest, and entering the new year with compassion instead of pressure.If this resonated, consider sharing it with another mom who needs permission to slow down. This season is easier when we don’t walk it alone.Thanks for reading Get Mom Ready! This post is public so feel free to share it. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Happy New Year, friends! This episode of Get Mom Ready is intentionally raw, unproduced, and honest — which feels like the only appropriate way to ease back into life after the holidays. If you’re feeling rested…amazing. If you’re feeling behind, buried in email, and wondering how it’s already January 5th…you’re in very good company.As we step into a new year together, I wanted to pause and reflect on what resonated most with you in 2025. Because what you listened to — and kept coming back to — tells us a lot about what you actually need right now.What You Loved Most: Our StoriesThe top four most-listened episodes of 2025 were our personal stories:* My story* Anna’s story* Meredith’s story* Hannah’s storyAnd honestly? That means more than you know.I remember telling the team that it mattered to me that I went first — that I led with vulnerability. And then the morning my episode went live, I woke up thinking, What have I done? It felt incredibly exposed.Your response confirmed what Get Mom Ready is really about:We don’t need perfect advice. We need to know we’re not alone.Thank you for trusting us with your time, your stories, and your own quiet listening moments — probably while folding laundry or hiding in the car for five extra minutes.The Episode That Spoke Loudest (Fast)After our stories, the most-listened episode of the year was:Decision Fatigue, Mom Guilt, and the Power of Good EnoughWhat’s interesting? It was only released in November.That tells me everything I need to know. Decision fatigue is real. Mom guilt is constant. And “good enough” is something we’re all desperately trying to practice — even when it feels uncomfortable.You can expect us to keep talking about this in 2026. Because if you feel it every day… so do we.The Next Four Episodes That Resonated MostIf we group our stories together, here are the next four episodes that rose to the top — especially for moms who are tired, thoughtful, and navigating big internal shifts:* How to Find the Courage to Change Your Mind About Work and Motherhood* Principled Living: How to Live from Intention Instead of Reactivity* Choosing a Mindset That Works When Mom Life Feels Overwhelming* Get Mom Ready Live (our October live recording)That live episode still holds such a special place in my heart. We pulled it together quickly — partly because Meredith happened to be in Houston — and recorded it at SheSpace, which has been a meaningful space in my own growth journey over the last five years. Getting to share that moment with all of you felt full-circle in the best way.What’s Coming in 2026We’re already deep into recording for the new year, and I’m so excited about what’s ahead.You’ll hear from:* Alli Worthington — my personal business coach, powerhouse leader, mom of five, and someone I personally learn from* Priscilla Smith — a stylist and mom bringing such a refreshing perspective* Jennifer Sise — A business and productivity coach who will help us think differently about capacity and focusAnd of course, you’ll continue hearing from me, Meredith, Anna, and Hannah, having the conversations we wish someone had invited us into earlier.We Want to Hear From YouAs always, this community shapes where we go next.* What topics do you want us to cover?* What questions are you carrying quietly?* Would you be open to a live coaching episode — with one or all of us?If the answer is yes, let us know. Truly.Here’s to a grounded, honest, good-enough start to 2026. We’re really glad you’re here.You can find all episodes and updates here on getmomready.com — and we’ll be back in your ears very soon.Thanks for reading Get Mom Ready! This post is public so feel free to share it.With you,Holly 🤍 Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

We recorded this episode just days before it airs, which means we’re talking about the holidays in real time.Not the Pinterest version.Not the matching-pajamas, perfectly-timed-dinner, everyone-gets-along version.The real one.If you’re already feeling a knot in your stomach thinking about family gatherings, schedules, expectations, or how you’re going to hold it all together this season, then this episode is for you.Because here’s the truth:The holidays don’t just add joy. They add pressure.More people.More plans.More opinions.More logistics.More memories (good and hard).And for so many moms, it brings up the same quiet question every year:How do I stay connected…without it robbing my joy or burning myself out?Let’s Start With a ReframeOne of the most important moments in this conversation came early, when Hannah reminded us of something simple—but powerful:Most people are not trying to hurt you.That seven-thirty dinner invitation?The late-night gathering?The unrealistic expectation?It’s rarely malicious. Often it’s coming from people who haven’t had small kids in decades or who simply don’t live inside your daily reality.Which means we’re left with a choice:We can stew in resentment and dread…Or we can communicate.Not perfectly.Not scripted.Not “therapized.”Just honestly.Boundaries Aren’t About Pushing People AwayThis episode gently dismantles one of the most misunderstood ideas in modern motherhood: boundaries.Hannah said it best:“A boundary is something we do to stay connected, not to cut people off.”Read that again.Boundaries aren’t punishments.They’re clarifiers.They’re not about controlling other people—they’re about being honest about what we can do.A boundary sounds like:* “We’d love to come, but we need to leave by 6:30.”* “Five o’clock would work best for our kids—if not, we’ll still come and head out early.”* “This is what our family needs this year.”No drama.No moral high ground.No ultimatums.Just clarity.And clarity, when offered with kindness, actually protects connection instead of eroding it.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.When We Don’t Say Anything, Things Get Harder—Not EasierOne thread that kept resurfacing in this episode was avoidance.Avoiding hard conversations.Avoiding asking for what we need.Avoiding saying something because “it’s not a big deal.”Until…it is.As Hannah shared, estrangement often doesn’t begin with one huge blow-up.It starts with small, unspoken hurts that pile up over time.And while not every situation needs confrontation, a helpful question is this:Is this making me want to pull away?If the answer is yes, it may be worth gently naming.Not to create conflict but to prevent distance.The Holidays Add More Than We RealizeBeyond family dynamics, the holidays also bring a massive increase in mental load:* School events* Performances* Parties* Gift-buying* Clothes for themed days* Social obligations* Endless “shoulds”And social media doesn’t help.It can feel like everyone else is:✔ Doing everything✔ Loving every minute✔ Creating magical memoriesMeanwhile, you’re just trying to survive December without snapping.So we talked about permission.Permission to:* Skip parties* Say no to traditions that don’t serve your family* Choose a few meaningful things instead of everything* Let “good enough” be good enoughOne practical idea Hannah shared was sitting down as a family and deciding:What actually matters to us this season?Everything else is optional.You’re Allowed to Do Christmas Your WayThis episode wasn’t about lowering standards—it was about choosing them on purpose.It was about:* Planning ahead* Communicating early* Being on the same team as your partner* Naming triggers before you’re in the middle of them* Giving yourself grace when things aren’t perfectAnd most importantly, remembering this:There is no perfect family.There is no conflict-free holiday.There is only imperfect people doing their best.A Gentle Reminder as You Head Into the HolidaysYou don’t have to do everything.You don’t have to please everyone.You don’t have to explain yourself perfectly.You do get to:* Ask for what you need* Protect your energy* Choose connection over performance* Assume the best about others—and yourselfIf this season feels tender, heavy, or complicated—you are not behind.You are human.And you’re not alone.Thanks for reading Get Mom Ready! This post is public so feel free to share it.Listen to the Full EpisodeIn this conversation, we cover:* How to communicate boundaries without sounding defensive* Why clarity actually builds connection* How avoidance creates more stress long-term* Practical ways to simplify the holidays* How to opt out without guilt* Why “fumbling” conversations are better than none at allResources for YouIf you’re needing support beyond this episode, you can find all of our free resources here on GetMomReady.com including:* The Wellness Guide* The Medical Mom Guide* The