Less Drama More Mama

You've done the thought work. You've challenged old beliefs. You know your child isn't trying to make your life harder, but you still lose it, shut down, and spiral into guilt. This week's podcast episode explains why that happens, and what you can do when mindset work isn't enough on its own. I'm introducing something I've been studying and integrating into my coaching lately: Somatic Experiencing, a body-based approach that helps you understand and work with your nervous system. It's making a noticeable difference for my clients—and for me. If you've ever felt like there's a gap between what you know and how you actually react, this episode will help you bridge it. https://lessdramamoremama.com/355

Summer often means more sibling fights, which can mean more stress for you. With school out and everyone under the same roof, it's easy to get pulled into constant squabbles and feel like you're always playing referee. In this episode, I'm talking about why kids tend to fight more in summer, what's really going on beneath the surface, and how to stay grounded when the tension rises. You'll learn how to respond in ways that support your kids' emotional development and your own peace of mind. If you're craving fewer power struggles and more calm this summer, this is for you. https://lessdramamoremama.com/354

There's a pattern I see every year around this time. Kids feel stressed about the upcoming shift from school to summer, but they don't always say they're stressed. Instead, they act it out. The clinginess, meltdowns, and defiance are signs that their nervous systems are trying to manage a big internal shift. And moms often take that stress on as their own, trying to prevent problems before they happen and keep everyone happy. They feel like they're already running on empty before summer even begins. In this week's episode, I'm sharing how to shift from school to summer without spinning out, and how I'm handling things in my own home, too. https://lessdramamoremama.com/353

On Mother's Day (and really, any day), it's easy to get caught up in how everyone else sees you as a mom. What if, this year, you took a few minutes to see yourself? In today's episode, I'm sharing five simple, meaningful questions to help you reflect on how you're showing up, what's working in your parenting, and what you want more of. It's a chance to reconnect with the kind of mom you want to be. Whether Mother's Day feels joyful, complicated, or somewhere in between, these questions offer a way to see yourself—and your motherhood—with more clarity and compassion. https://lessdramamoremama.com/352

Remember rolling your eyes when your parents complained about your music or fashion choices? Now you find yourself sighing about your child's screen time or social media habits. The "kids today" worry is as old as parenting itself, and every generation has been convinced the next one is somehow falling short or headed for disaster. In this episode, I'll show you why reframing this historical perspective might completely change how you view your own children's generation and your parenting, too. https://lessdramamoremama.com/351

We don't often hear people say, "I adapted well to harsh discipline as a child. I learned how to stay small, quiet, and agreeable." Instead, they say, "I turned out fine." But what does "fine" really mean? In this episode, I'm unpacking the myth of "I turned out fine"—the phrase so many parents lean on to justify repeating what was done to them when they were kids. This episode might challenge you. And that's the point. Because we're not here to settle for raising kids who turn out "fine." We're here to raise adults who thrive. https://lessdramamoremama.com/350

After her separation, my client Victoria felt lost in her parenting. She didn't trust her parenting decisions and second-guessed everything. She thought she needed to learn parenting "rules." What she really needed was to connect with her own wisdom. In this week's episode, Victoria opens up about her experience in the Damn Good Mama program and how it helped her find her footing again. If you've ever felt stuck between "I think I'm a good mom" and "Why do I still feel so unsure?" — this is an episode you'll want to hear. https://lessdramamoremama.com/349

I recently sat in the back of a church watching two young girls say goodbye to their mother. As I listened to the stories shared about her life, I was struck by what people remembered most - the small gestures, the everyday presence, and the little ways she showed up consistently for those she loved. It made me think about how I'm showing up for my own children, and what they'll remember years from now. Today's episode isn't about adding more to your already full plate, but a reminder to stop rushing through the moments you'll later wish you'd slowed down for. I don't know how many bedtime stories, school lunches, or "watch this, Mom!" moments you'll get. But I do know that you have the chance to be present today and show up fully for the ones you love. Not because you should, but simply because you can. https://lessdramamoremama.com/348

I love a good laugh. The right kind of joke at the right time can shift the energy in a room, lighten a heavy moment, and bring families closer. But there's another side to humor that doesn't get talked about as much. Like when your kid suddenly goes quiet after you make a joke. Or when someone laughs at them instead of with them. This week's episode is one I think every parent should hear—especially today, on April Fools' Day. https://lessdramamoremama.com/347

Every Spring, moms turn their attention to their closets and drawers, sorting through clothes that no longer fit and items that have lost their purpose. But the heaviest clutter you carry isn't in your home at all. It's in your mind! In this week's episode, inspired by the first signs of Spring during my recent trip to Connecticut, I'm sharing why now is the perfect time to de-clutter not just your home, but your entire approach to motherhood. I'll help you toss out your old, outdated thoughts and beliefs to create more mental space for patience, joy, and connection. And if you'd like to tackle some of your mental clutter together, join me this Friday at noon Eastern for an open coaching call on Zoom at the link in the show notes. https://lessdramamoremama.com/346

A few years ago, I thought I was doing everything right for my health. I took Barre classes several times a week, ate little to no sugar or flour, and practiced intermittent fasting daily. But my stomach growled every night, and I felt exhausted much of the time, which wasn't ideal for keeping up with my kids. Then I joined Couture Fitness & Lifestyle Coaching and was shocked when Coach Jo told me I had been severely under-eating. I gradually increased my calories to nearly 2100 a day (far more than the 1200-1300 I had been consuming), focused on getting a minimum of 130g of protein daily, and introduced real strength training with weights that actually challenged me. To my amazement, I lost weight while eating MORE food and gaining muscle. But more importantly, I felt stronger, more confident, more energetic, and better able to be fully present with my kids. I've even started to enjoy the challenge of lifting heavy and the satisfaction of getting stronger each week. In this episode, I chat with Coach Jo, who transformed her own body in her 40's and now helps women optimize their metabolism and improve their overall health. As she shares in our conversation, "It's not too late, and you're NEVER too old." Her story proves that with the right approach to nutrition and exercise, you can stop "running on fumes" and start feeling truly strong as a mother—at any age. https://lessdramamoremama.com/345

You might be familiar with the story I've shared on my podcast and in my book about the morning my 3-year-old refused to get dressed for camp. It became a turning point in my life. As she hid under the dining room table, something in me snapped. With my sister watching in stunned silence, I lost complete control—yelling, threatening, and eventually spanking my daughter in a rage I didn't recognize. The shame and guilt that followed were overwhelming, but they became the catalyst for profound change. That rock-bottom moment led me through therapy, coaching, countless parenting books, and additional professional training that transformed not just how I parent, but my entire approach to life. I'm sharing this because in today's episode, I reveal the three biggest mistakes that make power struggles worse and what to do instead. If you're locked in daily battles with your kids, this might be exactly what you need to hear right now. https://lessdramamoremama.com/344

Parenting isn't a puzzle you can solve. There's no secret formula that guarantees everything will go smoothly no matter how many parenting books you read, how much patience you practice, or how hard you try. When things don't go as planned, it doesn't mean you're failing. It just means you're a human raising other humans. And that can be pretty messy! Tune into this episode to find out what every parent needs to hear—especially on the days when nothing seems to go right. https://lessdramamoremama.com/343

You ask your child to turn off their iPad and get ready to leave the house, but instead of action, you get a heavy, dramatic exhale that says, "Do I have to?" You ask again, this time firmer. Nothing. And just like that, what should've been a simple request turns into a full-blown power struggle. In this week's episode, I'm breaking down what's really going on beneath those exhausting battles and sharing simple strategies to help you shift the dynamic without losing your authority (or your sanity). Because it's not about the shoes, the iPad, or leaving the house. And it's definitely not just about defiance. Something deeper is happening in these moments, and once you understand it, you can stop getting stuck in the same frustrating cycle. If you're done with endless back-and-forth arguments, and ready for less resistance and more connection, this episode will show you how to break the cycle without yelling, nagging, or frustration. https://lessdramamoremama.com/342

"It wasn't me!" "He started it!" "She made me do it!" Have your kids ever said these blame-shifting phrases? While hearing them might drive you crazy, they actually reveal important things about your child's developing mind and emotional world. In this episode, I explore why kids blame others and how to help them develop the skills to take responsibility more often. It's packed with practical strategies you can start using today. https://lessdramamoremama.com/341

What if some of the most important lessons about love aren't the ones we think to teach our kids? In this episode, I'm sharing seven essential truths about love—lessons that will shape the way your kids understand relationships, connection, and even their own self-worth. Oh, and these lessons aren't only for them. You might take away something meaningful, too! https://lessdramamoremama.com/340

Wait-and-see parenting can feel risky. You see your child struggling—whether it's with a tricky friendship, a frustrating homework assignment, or a new routine—and every instinct tells you to step in. But sometimes, doing nothing is actually the best move. Recently, my home phone stopped working for a couple of weeks and my home alarm system kept glitching. I figured I'd need to call someone to fix it, but...I just never got around to it. Then, out of nowhere, everything started working again. No explanation. No intervention. It made me realize how often we rush to fix things in our kids' lives when sometimes, things just need a little time to sort themselves out. But how do you know when to step in and when to let things unfold? Tune in to this episode to find out! https://lessdramamoremama.com/339

Motherhood can feel surprisingly lonely sometimes, even when you're constantly surrounded by people. You might exchange smiles with other moms at school drop-off, make small talk at soccer practice, and keep up with the endless group texts. But when you're having a hard day, who's your go-to? Who do you turn to when you need someone who truly gets you—no judgment, no pretense, just real support? In this episode, I'm diving into why so many moms feel isolated and what it takes to find the kind of friendships that make life better. By the way, if there's a mom you've been wanting to get to know better, why not forward this to her? It could be the perfect conversation starter—and maybe even the beginning of a deeper connection. https://lessdramamoremama.com/338

Sometimes the hardest part of parenting is stepping back and letting your child's path unfold naturally. This week's episode dives into those moments when your kids surprise you - whether it's quitting a beloved sport, choosing an unexpected career path, or exploring their identity in ways you never anticipated. Through real stories (including my own), we explore how to really be there for your kids as they figure out who they are. https://lessdramamoremama.com/337

Do you ever wonder, "Is this just how it is for moms?" The endless juggling act, the invisible load, the constant pressure to hold it all together without ever asking for help. What if it didn't have to feel so hard? In this week's podcast, I'm shining a light on on the silent struggles so many moms experience and how you can start to lighten your load. Listen now and discover what's possible when you stop struggling in silence.

January is here, and with it, the endless push for big, bold resolutions: de-cluttering half your house, cutting out every "bad" food, swearing off yelling forever. It all sounds so promising, doesn't it? Unfortunately, most of these massive changes don't last. In fact, the research shows they almost never do. In this week's episode, I'm sharing why your brain resists those dramatic overhauls and what actually works to create lasting change. https://lessdramamoremama.com/335

Welcome to the final episode of Less Drama More Mama for 2024! In today's episode, we're doing something special by counting down the top 10 episodes of the year, based on the ones that resonated most with you, my amazing listeners. These are the episodes you downloaded and loved the most, and I'm excited to take a look back at them as we head into the new year. If you missed any of these impactful episodes (or want to listen to them again), you'll find the links in today's show notes. Thank you for listening to the show this year. I'd be so grateful if you'd leave an honest review in Apple Podcasts and share your favorite episode with a mama friend. Wishing you a happy and healthy start to 2025! https://lessdramamoremama.com/334

How do you feel about your parenting as you look back on 2024? Are there changes you've been wanting to make but haven't known where to start? What if this was the year you actually made those parenting changes stick? What would it mean to look back on 2025 and feel like you had your best mom year yet? In this week's episode, I'm sharing the year-end reflection ritual that's helping moms in my group program recognize their progress and set meaningful intentions for the new year. Listen to episode 333 (an angel number that represents growth!) and start 2025 off right! https://lessdramamoremama.com/333

Your to-do list is growing, the calendar is filling up, and that familiar holiday anxiety is starting to creep in. You want this season to be special for your family, but somehow it always ends up feeling more exhausting than magical. In this week's podcast episode, I share a different approach to the holidays - one that lets you create meaningful moments without running yourself ragged. Because what your family really wants is you, present and enjoying the season alongside them. https://lessdramamoremama.com/332

It's easy to assume a quick apology will fix things after a relationship rupture with your child, but real repair requires more. In today's episode, I'm walking you through a powerful tool I created to help you repair your relationships and turn them into even stronger bonds. It's called the LOVE formula and it's simple + effective. If you've ever felt like your relationship with your child needs healing, this episode is for you. Tune in to hear how you can apply this simple tool to create lasting, meaningful relationship with your kids. https://lessdramamoremama.com/331

Sarah Benton had all the markers of success - great grades, active social life, thriving career. From the outside, no one would have guessed she was struggling with alcohol, a pattern she now recognizes as "high-functioning alcoholism." In this honest and eye-opening conversation, Sarah opens up about her 20-year journey in sobriety, including the hard truth that getting sober was just the beginning of the real work, and shares how having a child completely transformed her recovery experience. Through her new book "Parents in Recovery," she brings fresh insights about the complex relationship between addiction, parenting, and finding your way through both. Listen now for a real take on what it means to parent and grow.

Family gatherings are approaching, and many moms are already dreading the unsolicited advice, critical comments, sibling rivalry, and other difficult moments headed their way. In this week's episode, I'm sharing powerful strategies to create more peaceful interactions - both for you and your kids. Skip the typical "just ignore them" or "take deep breaths" advice. The approaches in this episode work even with your most challenging family dynamics. Ready to experience more peaceful family gatherings? Listen now! https://lessdramamoremama.com/329

What if your fears about screen time and video games are holding you back from deeper family connections? In today's episode, I sit down with certified Hand in Hand parenting instructor, Velma Gentzsch, who went from video game skeptic to streaming on Twitch. Her journey reveals how video games can become a powerful tool for building trust, resilience, and family bonds. Along the way, she discovered these games were teaching her son the very skills she worried he'd miss: negotiation, problem-solving, persistence, and even conflict resolution. Tune in to transform gaming from a source of family conflict into an opportunity for connection! https://lessdramamoremama.com/328

Between ChatGPT doing homework and AI-generated videos everywhere, it's tempting to see AI as just another parenting worry. But after testing it on three common family challenges, I discovered it might actually help us focus on what matters most: connecting with our kids. In this week's episode, I'm sharing my real-world experiment with AI as a parenting tool. Tune in to learn how it can handle the logistics while you create meaningful moments with your family. https://lessdramamoremama.com/327

What if the key to deepening your mother-daughter relationship begins with you? When Ashleigh Sinclaire became her mother's sole caregiver overnight, she discovered that our most fundamental relationship can transform through an unexpected path. In this week's moving episode, she shares how four extraordinary years caring for her mother revealed that the mother-daughter relationship lives within us, not between us. This episode will touch your heart and possibly transform how you see your relationship with your mother - or your daughter. https://lessdramamoremama.com/326

You know that gut-wrenching feeling when your child is scared? Whether it's a toddler crying about monsters under the bed or a teenager having a panic attack about their future - seeing our kids afraid triggers something primal in us. We want to fix it, protect them, make the scary thing go away. But sometimes our own "stuff" gets in the way of truly supporting them. In this week's episode, we explore how parents' own experiences and beliefs about fear can cloud their judgment when helping scared kids. Through real examples, we'll look at what actually helps kids develop a healthy relationship with fear. Tune in, because these insights might transform your next challenging moment with your scared child. https://lessdramamoremama.com/325

Balancing motherhood and dating after divorce is a challenge many moms face. It's an experience that often leaves women with more questions than answers, which is why I'm so excited about today's episode. Certified life and relationship coach, Paige Dempsey, and I talk about what she calls "slow dating" after divorce. This approach is about more than just taking things slow; it's about being intentional and self-aware in your dating journey. We discuss the importance of defining standards and knowing the qualities you want in a partner before you start dating, where to meet potential partners, how to talk to your kids about dating, and lots more. Grab your favorite beverage, pop in your earbuds, and tune in now! https://lessdramamoremama.com/324

As I celebrate half a century of life, I'm amazed at how much parenting has changed since I first became a mom. The tiny hands I once held now belong to young adults, and our conversations have evolved from "eat your vegetables" to discussions about their hopes and dreams for the future. This milestone birthday got me thinking: How do we stay connected with our kids as we all grow older? This week, I'm sharing insights that have deepened my relationships with my daughters over the years. Whether you're juggling sippy cups and planning play dates or teaching your teen to drive and fill out college applications, there's something in this episode for you. Listen now and let's celebrate growing older and closer to our kids together! https://lessdramamoremama.com/323

Holding onto resentment towards your parents is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die. In this week's episode, we explore how forgiving your parents might be the self-care you never knew you needed. Join me as I draw from my own experience, present scientific research, and offer practical strategies for navigating the process of forgiveness. You'll discover how forgiving your parents can liberate you from emotional burdens, enhance your health, and even improve your own parenting. https://lessdramamoremama.com/322

That knot in your stomach when facing a life-changing decision? It's universal. This week, I sit down with life coach Amanda Kingsley for a raw and honest conversation about navigating life's toughest choices. Amanda opens up about her personal abortion experience and shares powerful insights on making difficult decisions while minimizing suffering. Regardless of your political stance, this episode offers valuable insights on decision-making and personal growth that can benefit everyone. https://lessdramamoremama.com/321

Mistakes in parenting don't define you. How you handle them does. We've all had moments as parents when we wish we could hit rewind and try again. That's why in this week's episode, we're unpacking the often-overlooked superpower of second chances and do-overs in parenting. Join me to transform those "I wish I hadn't said that" moments into opportunities for growth and deeper connection with your kids. You'll learn practical strategies to create your own parenting rewind button and use it effectively. https://lessdramamoremama.com/320

Are you repeating unhelpful patterns in your parenting and can't understand why? In this episode, we're talking about something that's been influencing your parenting since long before you became a mama: attachment styles. We'll explore how your early experiences shape your parenting instincts, and more importantly, how you can use this knowledge to build stronger, more positive relationships with your kids. Get ready to rewrite your family's story and become the secure base your kids need to thrive. https://lessdramamoremama.com/319

Wouldn't it be great to have a magic wand to stop your tween from freaking out? Well, while I can't offer magic, I've got the next best thing – wisdom from parenting expert and author Carla Naumburg. In this podcast episode, Carla dishes on her new book "How to Stop Freaking Out" -- a guide designed specifically for 8-12 year olds. It's jam-packed with practical strategies to help your tween navigate stress and anxiety like a pro. Ready to empower your tween with life-changing emotional skills? Tune in now! https://lessdramamoremama.com/318

Have you ever wondered why your parents raised you the way they did? Or why you parent the way you do? In today's episode, we take a trip through the decades, exploring how parenting styles have evolved from the 1950s to today. You'll learn about the four main parenting styles and how they came to be, plus some insights into how world events and societal changes have influenced more recent parenting trends. Tune in and discover how your parenting style fits into the bigger picture! https://lessdramamoremama.com/317

From playground drama to lunchroom cliques, childhood friendships can feel like a roller-coaster ride. As moms, we often worry about our kids' social lives, but we aren't always sure how to help. In this week's episode, I chat with Alex Alexander of the Friendship IRL podcast about navigating the complex world of kids' friendships. We talk about everything from teaching social skills to handling friend drama. Tune in to hear our full conversation and gain practical strategies you can start using today. https://lessdramamoremama.com/316

Have you ever thought that a simple Post-it note could revolutionize your parenting? In today's episode, I explore how these humble sticky squares can become powerful allies in raising happy, organized, and well-adjusted kids. From boosting communication to managing behavior, we'll explore how these small squares can solve big parenting challenges in surprisingly effective ways. https://lessdramamoremama.com/315

The kids are cranky, the house is a mess, and you're wondering how you'll ever get back into the school groove. Sound familiar? This week's episode tackles seven of the common challenges families face when trying to reset their routines after a break. We're talking practical tips to help you dodge those pitfalls and start the school year strong with more ease and flow! https://lessdramamoremama.com/314

Imagine stepping away from your daily grind and coming back with a whole new perspective. That's exactly what happened for me during my 12-week summer sabbatical, and I can't wait to share my experience with you. In this episode, I'm spilling the details about my break. From my daughter's high school graduation to my own personal growth journey, it's been quite a summer. And the best part is that I'm coming back with fresh insights and renewed energy to help YOU on your motherhood journey. https://lessdramamoremama.com/313

New pencils, fresh notebooks, and...knots in your stomach? The back-to-school season isn't just about shopping - it's an emotional roller coaster for many kids (and parents, too!). In today's episode, I address the challenges of transitioning from summer to school and share practical tips to help you support your kids, whether they're excited, anxious, or somewhere in between. Give this episode a listen and equip yourself with strategies to support your family through this transition. https://lessdramamoremama.com/312

Do you or someone you know overreact to minor problems? Or always seems to be in the middle of a crisis? There's a fascinating reason behind this - and it all starts in the brain. In this episode, I pull back the curtain on why our minds love to make mountains out of molehills. We'll explore the brain science behind dramatic thinking and uncover some surprising truths about why some people seem to attract drama like a magnet. If you're ready to change the channel on your internal soap opera and embrace a calmer, more realistic view of life, this episode is a must-listen. https://lessdramamoremama.com/311

Words matter, especially when it comes to our kids. And sometimes, we use certain phrases without realizing their potential negative impact. Today's summer playback reveals three common expressions that might be quietly undermining your parenting efforts, damaging your relationship with your kids, and hindering their emotional growth. But don't worry - I share alternatives that can help strengthen your bond and foster emotional maturity. This episode is packed with real talk and practical tips you can start using right away. No fancy parenting theories here - just straightforward advice to help you and your kids communicate better. Ready to upgrade your communication with just a few simple tweaks? Pop in your earbuds and give this episode a listen. Your future family interactions might just get a whole lot smoother! https://lessdramamoremama.com/310

Two episodes ago, we explored four psychological defense mechanisms I often encounter in my work with moms. Today, we're zooming in on one of them even more – projection – the sneaky way your mind casts your own insecurities, fears, and past experiences onto others, especially your kids. This episode sheds light on how these unconscious thoughts shape your parenting and might just be the lens you need to see yourself - and your children - more clearly. https://lessdramamoremama.com/309

Are you stuck in a cycle of conflict and drama? Today's episode reveals the roles we unconsciously play in conflict that keep us entangled in a loop of blame, helplessness, and over-responsibility. By understanding how you and others might be caught in the roles of Persecutor, Victim, or Rescuer, you can learn to step out of these roles and into a more empowered life. Tune in and unlock the keys to exiting the Mama Drama Triangle once and for all. https://lessdramamoremama.com/308

Have you ever had one of those days where you find yourself making excuses or snapping at your kids for no real reason? It might be your defense mechanisms at play, protecting you from uncomfortable truths and emotions. In this episode, we'll take a look at some of these hidden forces and how they show up in our everyday lives, especially as moms. I share personal stories and practical tips on how to catch yourself using these defenses, what to do about them, and why opening up to discomfort can be a game-changer for your personal growth. https://lessdramamoremama.com/307

Are sibling rivalry and constant bickering driving you up the wall? I know firsthand how stressful it can be when your kids' fighting seems endless, and you end up screaming even louder than them to make it stop. In this week's episode, I'm sharing some practical insights and tools that helped me and can help you, too. Discover how to shift your perspective and handle sibling squabbles in a more effective way to bring more calm to your home. https://lessdramamoremama.com/306