
Pop Culture Playdate with Sahar & Anna
57 episodes — Page 1 of 2
Ep. 56 - Meltdowns, Midnight Ballerinas, and Pet Peeves
Ep. 55 - Mom Prom Recap!
Ep. 54 - Girl Drama, Mom Takes & Why Being Present Is So Hard
Ep. 53 - Putts, Planets & a Park Situation

Ep. 52- Court Is In Session and We're Ready to Judge
Grab your gavel, because Sahar and Anna are on the bench and justice will be served — pop culture style. This week, we put the headlines on trial. All rise. Pop Culture Playdate is now in session.

Ep. 51 - Rewinding the '90s: The Pop Culture Moments That Made Us
We're back — we catch up on spring break stories, new obsession with mahjong, and the chaotic energy of video calls. Then we hit rewind: which 90s pop culture moments actually shaped who we are? We dig into the memories that still live rent-free in our heads. Nostalgia is the name of the game this week.

Ep. 50 - New Name, Same Chaos: Our Rebrand + What We’re Loving Right Now
Big news! This week we’re officially introducing our new podcast name, fresh branding, and the format of the show moving forward. After the rebrand reveal, we get into what we’re currently loving- from the books we can’t put down to the music and TV shows we’re obsessed with. We wrap things up by sharing our current style inspirations and what’s influencing our closets lately.

Ep. 49 - Luxury, Little Philosophers, and What We’re Watching & Reading
This week we’re sharing what we’re currently reading and watching, a surprisingly deep conversation about religion sparked by one of our kids, and a fun discussion about how our definition of luxury has changed over the years. From big kid questions to the little things that feel indulgent now, it’s a mix of pop culture, parenting, and perspective.

Ep. 48 - Cancel Culture
Welcome back to Unprepared with Sahar, Rachel, and Anna — where nothing is scripted, everything is honest, and the group chat energy is strong.This week, the trio dives into the chaos of Valentine’s Day school parties (the junk! the volunteering guilt! the class-parent politics!), birthday celebrations, and the delicate art of slowly throwing away your kids’ treat bags without getting caught. They also recap their Galentine’s party planning — including a nearly-approved keg for a group of mid-30s moms (thankfully voted down).From influencer purchases (a $65 hair towel? a vibrating plate from TikTok Shop?) to beauty gadgets like red light masks, they debate what’s actually worth the hype — and what’s just smart marketing working a little too well.Then things take a deeper turn as they unpack the Super Bowl halftime performance, celebrity reactions, and the ever-complicated world of cancel culture. Where’s the line between accountability and overreaction? Can you separate the art from the artist? Do people deserve second chances? The conversation touches on pop culture controversies, racism, PR apologies, hypocrisy, and the reality that most of us are just trying to navigate gray areas without being self-righteous.It’s thoughtful, it’s funny, it’s a little existential — and, as always, completely unprepared.New episodes weekly. Come for the mom-life chaos, stay for the real talk.

Ep. 47 - Busy Lives & Finding Time for It All
We’re catching up on all the exciting things happening in our lives—from upcoming trips to planning a Galentine’s celebration we cannot wait for. Then we dive into our main topic: time management. With kids, packed schedules, and never-ending to-do lists, we share how we juggle busy lives, what actually helps us stay sane, and what we’ve learned along the way. Real-life strategies, honest struggles, and a reminder that you’re not alone in the chaos.

Ep. 46 - Green Flags, Red Flags & Everything In Between
Sahar is back with Rachel this week for a short but fun chat all about our green and red flags 🚦 From the habits we love to the ones that make us cringe, nothing is off-limits. It’s light, honest, and full of laughs—perfect for a quick listen.

Ep. 45 - Pop Culture, Comparison & Being Human
This week, Anna and Sahar start with pop culture chatter before shifting into a candid conversation about insecurities. They talk through the doubts, comparisons, and inner narratives they’re constantly working through—and remind listeners they’re not alone in feeling this way.

Ep. 44 - When Life Gets Heavy
This week’s episode is a heartfelt one. Anna and Sahar open up about some emotional topics, including sad news and the reality of facing a fatal diagnosis. They chat about sentimental social media posts and the complicated feelings they can stir up—comfort, nostalgia, and everything in between. From there, the conversation naturally shifts toward hobbies after motherhood and how identity can evolve through different seasons of life. It’s an honest, gentle conversation about heavy moments, emotional processing, and finding space for yourself again.

Ep. 43 - Festive to Frazzled: Bops, Flops & 2026 Goals
This week, Anna and Sahar chat all things Christmas and NYE, and the post-holiday hangover that comes once the celebrations end. They reflect on 2025 by sharing their biggest bops and flops of the year, then look ahead with their resolutions and intentions for 2026. A cozy, honest reset to ease you into the new year.

Ep. 42- These are a few of our favorite things...
In this episode of Unprepared with Sahar and Rachel, the girls are back together with Anna for what feels like week 50 of nonstop catching up. From hosting the ultimate girls’ night gingerbread house craft party (hot glue gun drama included) to surviving the chaos and pressure of holiday season parenting, nothing is off the table.They dive into the realities of mom guilt, apologizing to your kids, and letting go of perfection—especially when it comes to Christmas outfits, themed school days, and picture-perfect expectations. The conversation also weaves through travel stories, baby showers, meaningful run-ins with strangers, and why complimenting people in public still matters.

Ep. 41 - Catch Ups and Hot Takes
In this episode, we’re catching up on life lately—from Thanksgiving highlights and NYC moments to snow days, holiday prep, and the annual chaos of Spotify Wrapped. Then we lean into some truly unpopular opinions, sharing our hot takes on coffee, martinis, sitcoms, the beach, school success, leftovers, and whether money really can buy happiness (at least a little). Lighthearted, honest, and very opinionated—come hang out with us.

Ep. 40 - Catching Up & Turning the Heat Back On
Rachel is back with Anna this week, and the catch-up is long overdue. They dive into what life has looked like lately—juggling kids, work, friendships, and everything in between—before getting into the big topic: how to keep the spark alive in a marriage after having kids. From the honest struggles to the small things that make a big difference, they share what’s worked, what hasn’t, and why effort still matters even on the most chaotic days. Tune in for real talk, laughs, and a reminder that you’re definitely not the only one trying to figure it all out.

Ep. 39 - The Season of Doing Too Much
This week, Sahar and Anna unpack their ongoing screen-time challenge, how it’s going… and how it’s actually going. With the holidays barreling toward us, they dig into the mounting to-dos, shifting schedules, and the invisible work that mothers shoulder this time of year. From juggling school events and family plans to carving out a little sanity, they break down the pressure points, the small wins, and what they’re trying to let go of. A relatable mix of honesty, humor, and holiday chaos.

Ep. 38 - Cutting Screen Time (Kind Of) & Catching Up on the Drama
In this week’s episode, we check in on how our screen time challenge is going — are we really cutting back, or just finding new ways to scroll? 👀 We also share a quick recap of the shows we’re obsessed with right now and the books that have been keeping us hooked.Plus, we dive into the latest pop culture buzz surrounding Kayla Nicole and the controversy over her Halloween costume — what actually happened, and why is everyone talking about it?

Ep. 37 - Welcome to the Haunted House — where the ghosts aren’t scary, just relatable.
Sahar and Anna are walking through their own version of a haunted house filled with the everyday horrors that haunt us all.Inside you’ll find:🎃 Gatekeepers at the door📞 Calls from your kid’s school💀 Old cringey Facebook posts💅 And that one eyebrow lady who always asks, “upper lip too?”

Ep. 36 - Ep. 33 - Here for it (part 2)
Sahar and Anna are back with Part 2 of their “Here For It” series — where they run through the trends, topics, and internet debates everyone’s talking about and decide if they’re… well, here for it. This week, they weigh in on many things, including Golden Goose shoes, the ongoing obsession with nepo babies, and whether cancel culture has finally run its course. Expect hot takes, strong opinions, and a lot of laughter as they decide what’s in, what’s out, and what’s just plain confusing.

Ep. 35 - Here for It (and Some Things We’re Definitely Not)
Sahar is joined by guest co-host Anna for Part 1 of a fast-paced pop culture round-up where they dive into some of 2025's biggest trends — Expect plenty of laughter, strong opinions, and a few unfiltered takes along the way.

Ep. 34 - Refilling Your Cup: Motherhood, Friendship, and Life with Twins
In this episode, Sahar is joined by guest host Anna, a mom of four — including a set of twins — who opens up about the beautiful chaos of raising multiple kids. Anna shares how becoming a twin mom has reshaped her outlook on motherhood, identity, and friendship, and why nurturing meaningful connections has become such an important way to refill her cup.

Ep. 33 - Solo Parenting and Growing Up in Chaos: A Conversation with Vanessa
In today’s episode, Sahar and her friend Vanessa begin by talking about the everyday realities of solo parenting—the challenges, the resilience it requires, and the unexpected moments of joy. The conversation then shifts into Vanessa’s deeply personal story of growing up with a mother who faced substance abuse and mental health struggles. She shares how those early experiences shaped her, the coping mechanisms she developed, and the lessons she carries into adulthood.

Ep. 32 - Inherited Values
Sahar is joined by special guest Judy Cho for an insightful conversation about growing up in immigrant households. Together, they reflect on the unique experiences that shaped them and explore how those influences show up in their parenting today.

Ep. 31 - What Matters Most
In this episode, Sahar is joined by guest co-host Vanessa Nish for an honest conversation about motherhood and the ways it has reshaped their identities, priorities, and perspectives. From the small daily shifts to the big life changes, they explore how becoming a mom transforms not just how you parent, but who you are!Connect with @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel for more!

Ep. 30 - Still Unprepared: The Highs and Lows of Mom Life Online
We flashback to one of our favorite episodes, we're diving into the whirlwind world of social media and how it shapes our experiences as moms. Join us as we explore the double-edged sword of connectivity that platforms like Instagram and TikTok.We’ll discuss the ways social media has become a lifeline for community and support during motherhood, while also examining the overwhelming tide of judgment, comparison, and misinformation that can follow. From the constant need to measure up to picture-perfect parenting moments, to the joy of discovering helpful resources, to those annoying ads, we cover it all!Ready to laugh, relate, and maybe even find some helpful resources? Tune in for insights and anecdotes that will resonate with anyone navigating the ups and downs of motherhood in the digital age!Want to connect with Sahar and Rachel? Follow them on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenzLinks Mentioned in the Episode:Safe in the seat: https://www.instagram.com/safeintheseat?igsh=c2Q0OWxwemxwdWF1 The_car_mom: https://www.instagram.com/the_car_mom?igsh=NGYwM29nODMzMWE2 Yummy toddler food: https://www.instagram.com/yummytoddlerfoodigsh=c3h1aHFsaHZ0MHdy Dr. Marta Perez: https://www.instagram.com/dr.martaperez?igsh=MmpqMDYxaGN3Zmk1 Milestones and motherhood: https://www.instagram.com/milestones.and.motherhood?igsh=bHR2a2JsMmN2aXZw Signing time: https://www.instagram.com/signing_time?igsh=eGlwejJuanpodGZn The every momhttps://www.instagram.com/theeverymom?igsh=MTRreHZnMGE2cmtuZg== Big little feelings: https://www.instagram.com/biglittlefeelingsigsh=MTgwZ2NudWJ5c2hsNw== The psychologists child: https://www.instagram.com/the_psychologists_child?igsh=MW5hY2c0ejF3bXh4dw== The.vagina.whisperer: https://www.instagram.com/the.vagina.whisperer?igsh=M3BsMG9lZnB5MjMx Postpartum.push: https://www.instagram.com/postpartum.push?igsh=NXR1ZDFybDZmdTRt

Ep. 29 -The Road Not Taken: Sahar's & Rachel's Fantasy Lives
Ever wonder what your life would look like if you'd taken a different path? This week, Rachel (35 weeks pregnant and over the heat) and Sahar (drowning in school apps) dive into their fantasy alternate lives. Sahar dreams of a chic life as a skincare esthetician in New York City, while Rachel fantasizes about running an animal rescue in Europe. They debate the mental load of school lunches vs. bedtime, play some "Would You Rather?" (Personal chef or housekeeper? Wine or ice cream?), and share the chaotic reality of the first week of school. If you're interested in catching up with the girls, or just looking for an energetic conversation while you pack lunches for your own littles, you’ll want to tune in!What would your alternate reality look like? Let us know @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel and follow your favorite hosts @swan_sahar and @rackenz

Ep. 28 - Through the Lens of Our Own Childhoods: How Upbringings Can Help (and Haunt) Your Parenting
Welcome back to Unprepared with Rachel and Sahar! This week, we’re diving into a topic every parent can relate to—how our own upbringings shape the way we raise our kids. From strict immigrant households to free-spirited third-child chaos, we compare our childhoods and discuss the values, discipline styles, and traditions we’ve carried forward (or left behind).Plus, Sahar spills on her wildly different high school reunion experience (and why you should definitely go to yours). Whether you’re a parent, a soon-to-be parent, or just curious about generational shifts, this episode is packed with laughs, relatable struggles, with a little sprinkle of hard earned wisdomWhat parenting habits did you inherit (or avoid like the plague)? Let us know at @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel and follow your favorite hosts @swan_sahar and @rackenz

Ep. 27 - Spiders vs. Spa Robes, Boob Jobs, and Lake Dives
Welcome back to Unprepared with Sahar and Rachel after a brief hiatus—and boy, do we have stories to share! In this episode, the hosts recap their very different recent trips: Sahar’s rustic, chaotic family adventure at a spider-filled Canadian lake cottage (complete with 10 kids and zero showers) versus Rachel’s ultra-luxurious, butler-serviced baby moon at Nemacolin Resort.From debating "outdoorsy vs. outsidey" lifestyles to the shocking $10,000 price difference between plastic surgeons (yes, we’re talking boob jobs), no topic is off-limits. Plus, Rachel drops details about her dreamy spa retreat, while Sahar reveals whether she actually swam in the lake (spoiler: she did!).Whether you’re a mom dreaming of a kid-free escape or just love hearing brutally honest takes on postpartum bodies, cosmetic procedures, and the real cost of "self-care," this episode is for you.Connect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel

Ep. 26 - Humble Beginnings: A Blast from the Podcast Past!
This week we are feeling nostalgic! Join us for a look back on our journey so far, remixed and remastered for your listening pleasure. It's hard to believe it has already been 25 episodes since we first began this wild ride and we appreciate each and everyone of you for continuing to tune in to our show. So lets hop in the imagination time machine and check out where it all began!Whether you are new to the show or have been here since day one, this episode serves as a great reminder of why we started this show and what you can expect in the many episodes to come!Connect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel

Ep. 25 - Date Night Disaster: The Sitter Who Called a Parent-Teacher Conference
Welcome back to Unprepared with Sahar and Rachel! This week, we’re diving into the wild world of babysitters. The girls share their craziest sitter stories, from a woman who definitely is(n’t) a smoker, to a girl who recognized ADHD in Sahar’s child and brought it up in the worst way possible, and these aren’t even the craziest you’ll hear!Then, we pivot to the bedtime struggle bus—how do you wrangle multiple kids into bed without losing your sanity? Rachel’s terrified of adding a third to the mix, while Rachel’s kids have mastered the art of trapping their dad in a crib. We’ll debate "chit-chat time," rotating night shifts, and whether hiring a night nurse counts as cheating.Whether you’re laughing, cringing, or taking notes, we’d love for you to listen in!Don’t forget to rate and review—and maybe send us your own babysitter horror stories to @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel

Ep. 24 - Raising Kids (and Husbands) with Rachel’s Sister-in-Law Cameron!
Welcome back to Unprepared! In this dynamite episode, Sahar and Rachel hang out with Cameron Kaplan, Rachel’s sister-in-law! They talk about Cameron’s yearly visit to Rachel’s house, and the inevitable chaos that comes when 2 families of littles crash together. From chocolate bunny disasters, to great ideas for wholesome family fun, this episode is electric from the first second, to the last!The girls also dive into more serious talk, with insights on being a woman in a male-dominated investment firm, the push and pull of confidence, and how motherhood can change not only your personal self, but your professional self as well.Whether you’re here for the sister-in-law banter, the parenting truths, or the sheer chaos of three moms oversharing, this episode delivers!Disclaimer: No plants, price tags, or husbands were harmed in the making of this podcast.Connect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel

Ep. 23 - Ask a Sleep Trainer: Your Biggest Baby Sleep Questions, Answered
This week on Unprepared, Sahar sits down with Lauren Proffitt, the sleep trainer who saved her sanity when her first child refused to sleep more than 45 minutes at a time. They revisit Sahar’s desperate early days of motherhood—crippling sleep deprivation, postpartum anxiety, and the moment she realized this isn’t normal—and how Lauren’s in-home sleep training transformed their family. Lauren breaks down the myths, the realities of customizing sleep plans for each child’s personality, and why naps are actually harder to fix than nighttime sleep. Plus: the surprising truth about breastfed babies and sleep training, and why parents shouldn’t feel guilty for prioritizing rest.From newborns to defiant 5-year-olds, Lauren shares her decade of experience helping families reclaim their nights (and sanity). Whether you’re a sleep-deprived new parent or battling bedtime with a toddler, this episode is all about what a sleep trainer could do for you and yours. Because everyone deserves rest.Want to hire Lauren’s services? Check out https://clebaby.com for more information!Share your best sleep story at @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel or follow Sahar @swan_sahar and Rachel @rackenz

Ep. 22 - The Princess Treatment: Tradwife vs Tired Wives with Producer Ethan
Welcome back to Unprepared with Sahar and Rachel. This week your favorite working moms dissect a controversial TikTok trend where women proudly embrace extreme gender roles: refusing to speak to waitstaff, letting their husbands tie their shoes, and performing quiet, demure femininity as a lifestyle. Is this a harmless personal choice, or does it reinforce dangerous stereotypes about women’s autonomy?We debate the fine line between partnership and patriarchy, sharing our own messy, real-life experiences with mental load, weaponized incompetence, and why actually equal parenting matters. Plus, stick around to hear our mom wins and mom fails.Listen to the full Princess Treatment video here Connect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel

Ep. 21 - Birth Plans vs. Birth Reality (Part 2): A Doula’s Take on Birth, Fear, and Advocacy
CONTENT WARNING: Discussion of Mental Health and Graphic Medical ProceduresIn this episode of Unprepared, Sahar and Rachel dive deep into the emotional rollercoaster of birth with special guest, doula Hannah. Their conversation was so juicy, we had to split it into 2 parts! From the unpredictable twists of labor to the importance of trauma-informed support, we explore what no one prepares women for—emotionally. Hannah shares her wisdom on overcoming fear, balancing birth stories (without toxic positivity!), and why having the right doula can make all the difference.We also tackle systemic issues in maternal care, the rise of "birth influencers," and the pressure of "bounce back" culture. Plus, Hannah shares one of her wildest birth stories! Whether you’re expecting, a new parent, or just curious about the realities of childbirth, this episode is packed with raw, real, and empowering conversations.Connect with Hannah:www.hannahdoula.com@hannahbirthdoula on InstagramConnect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel

Ep. 20 - Birth Plans vs. Birth Reality: Hannah’s Journey from Patient to Doula
CONTENT WARNING: Discussion of Mental Health and Graphic Medical ProceduresIn this raw and powerful episode of Unprepared, Sahar and Rachel sit down with Hannah, a doula with a story that reshapes everything we think we know about birth, trauma, and postpartum mental health. The girls leave no subject on the table and Hannah shares her own harrowing birth experience—from a prolapsed umbilical cord emergency to a NICU stay, and ultimately, a postpartum psychosis diagnosis that changed her life. This isn’t just a birth story—it’s a lifeline for anyone who’s felt unprepared, isolated, or shamed by their postpartum experience.Connect with Hannah:www.hannahdoula.com@hannahbirthdoula on InstagramConnect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel

Ep. 19 - From Sleepovers to Overscrollers: Summertime Parenting in the Digital Age
Welcome back to Unprepared with Sahar and Rachel! With summer in full swing, we dive into the challenges of the summer schedule, the merits and drawbacks of summer camps, and setting proper sleep over boundaries.We also discuss the importance of fostering independence, instilling trust, and setting boundaries around social media, TikTok, and the unfiltered nature of the internet. Join us as we unpack the realities of parenting, share laughs, and seek advice on how best to prepare our kids for the world ahead. Connect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel

Ep. 18 - Ocean Waves and Baby Bumps: How to Overpack for a Disney Cruise
In this episode of Unprepared, join us for a candid and lively chat about summer adventures, family travel, and the wild ride of expecting number three! From overpacking on a cruise to toddler mayhem at the pool, we share funny mom fails, parenting hacks, and heartfelt moments. Plus, get the scoop on Rachel’s pregnancy journey at 23 weeks and her thoughts on welcoming another little one. Whether you're navigating bedtime battles or dreaming of future vacations, this episode is packed with real-talk, laughs, and a dash of chaos. Tune in for honest parenting stories and a reminder that, despite the madness, we're all in this together.Connect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel

Ep. 17 - Taming Mom Rage and Embracing Imperfection
In this episode of Unprepared with Sahar and Rachel, we dive into the raw realities of mom rage — those moments when patience runs out and emotions boil over. From bedtime battles to that boiling over moment, we share our personal experiences, struggles, and surprising tips for managing the chaos. Whether you're a seasoned mom or new to the journey, you'll find comfort in knowing you're not alone. Join us as we explore how acknowledging our triggers, practicing self-compassion, and owning our imperfections can help us to be better spouses, moms, and co-workers. Grab a cup of coffee (or wine) and let's get real about the wild, wonderful, and sometimes messy world of being a mom.What was your worst Mom Rage Moment? Reach out to @swan_sahar and @rackenz or join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel

Ep. 16 - Summertime Slam: Navigating the Busy Season Without Losing Your Mind
As the days get longer and summer approaches, moms everywhere feel the pressure to make the most of the season — from activities and festivals to endless outings. But how do we balance all the fun without burning out? In this episode of Unprepared with Sahar and Rachel, we dive into the chaos, joys, and best practices of summertime parenting. Plus, in a new segment, Sahar and Rachel share their biggest mom fails and best mom wins as well as the emotional tug of war that comes with both. Whether you’re planning summer camps or just trying to survive the heat, this episode is your friendly reminder to keep it simple, and enjoy the sunshine no matter what's happening under it!Connect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel

Ep. 15 - The Tradwife Fallacy and the Illusion of Social Media
In this episode of Unprepared, Sahar and Rachel dive into the trending world of tradwives, social media influence, and the complex issues surrounding body image, parenting, and cultural expectations. From exploring the romanticized 1950s gender roles to the realities behind influencer lifestyles, we examine how social media shapes our perceptions of family, success, and identity. Plus, we discuss the impact of diet culture, the "almond mom" phenomenon, and the importance of fostering healthy mindsets in our children. Join us as we unpack these topics with humor, honesty, and a desire to navigate this new frontier of parenting!Connect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel

Ep. 14 - Mother's Day Matters and the Male Loneliness Epidemic
In this introspective episode of Unprepared, Sahar (not Sean) and Rachel reflect on the importance of strong friendships, how to do Mother’s Day the right way, and the importance of using getaways to recharge your batteries. With kids, husbands, and parents pulling you every which way, spending time with your village is not only fun, but necessary to be your best for the people that matter!As the conversation evolves, your favorite working moms turn their attention to the Male Loneliness Epidemic, the fact that men don’t seem to see the value in opening up to their friends, and the weight that being closed off to friends can put on their spouses.With such important questions as “what do men talk about when they golf anyway?” You won’t want to miss this dynamic and candid conversation!Connect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel

Ep;. 13 - Wonderful Weddings, Potty Training Peril, and Post-Pregnancy Surprises
This week, Sahar is fresh off a whirlwind weekend celebrating her brother's gorgeous wedding in Austin, Texas. She shares all the behind-the-scenes details, from the beautiful Persian rehearsal dinner, complete with a saxophonist and napkin dance, to the stunning wedding day itself! Sahar also raves about the incredible live band that kept the party going as well as the touching speeches that brought tears to her eyes.But it wouldn't be an episode of Unprepared without some raw and relatable parenting stories! Rachel dives into the latest adventures with her kids, including the adorable bond Miles has formed with Stevie (Sahar’s Dog) and the hilarious (and slightly alarming) progress in the potty training department – involving some less than private places! This leads to the delicate topic of kids and social media privacy.In a segment of true vulnerability, Sahar shares a personal health story she's been navigating since her first pregnancy. What she initially thought was a common postpartum issue turned out to be something else entirely, leading to a candid discussion about the physical changes and sometimes embarrassing realities that come with childbirth. This conversation is a reminder that many moms are silently dealing with similar challenges and that we should all work to encourage open dialogue and community support.Connect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel

Ep. 12 - Unsolicited Advice and the Dreaded Question: "Are You a Good Mom?"
Welcome back to another episode of Unprepared! In this lively and candid discussion, we embrace the chaos of parenting as we dive into the unsolicited opinions and judgments that can often come from friends, family, and even strangers. Rachel and Sahar share their personal anecdotes about the pressures of parenting, from personal doubts, to managing your kids in public. Listen in as they explore whether these opinions affect their self-worth as moms, and reflect on how to remain true to their values amidst the noise. With relatable stories about good enough gowns, public meltdowns, and the intricacies of family dynamics, this episode promises to resonate with anyone navigating the beautiful and chaotic journey of momhood.Share your own public parenting stories with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel !

Ep. 11 - Facing the Unthinkable: Sahar's Journey Through Cancer
Welcome back to Unprepared with Rachel and Sahar! In this heartfelt episode, Sahar opens up about her personal battle with lymphoma and the unexpected journey that followed. From the initial diagnosis to the highs and lows of treatment, Sahar shares her story with remarkable candor, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the emotional and physical challenges.Join us as Sahar recounts the moment she discovered a swollen lymph node while pregnant with her daughter, which led to a shocking diagnosis. With humor, vulnerability, and incredible resilience, Sahar reflects on her experience, the power of having a strong support system, and how her outlook on life has shifted.This episode is not just about confronting cancer; it's about celebrating life, connection, and the strength of community. Tune in this week to hear the propagating impact of cancer and see an example of someone who rose above the darkness, while balancing her work, her kids, and everything in between.Connect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel

Ep. 10 - Passport Panic and Skincare Secrets
Welcome to a hastily organized episode of Unprepared! Well... at least more so than usual! With a flight to Portugal looming large, Sahar faces a minor crisis in the form of a forgotten passport. However, the duo puts such trivial concerns aside and turns their attention to skincare.From pregnancy “glows” that don’t feel so glowy to the effects of motherhood on skin, they reminisce about their younger days of tanning recklessly to discovering the wonders of medical-grade skincare. Tune in to hear their routines and products of choice!Whether you are looking for hilarious anecdotes, skincare advice, or just want to know if Sahar made her flight (she did by the way) you’ll want to hear this episode!Connect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachelSubscribe to the show to hear more episodes like this one!

Ep. 9 - What Kind of Mom are You? Type A, Type B... or Type C?
In this episode of Unprepared, Sahar and Rachel dive headfirst into Type A and Type B personalities, particularly as they pertain to parenthood. While simple on the surface, this dichotomy of momhood proves to be a surprisingly deep topic as it relates to family, friends, trip planning, and even marital chemistry!The girls also bring in your survey answers (taken from Instagram) and introduce them into the conversation, citing such statistics as “do you consider yourself Type A or Type B” and “do you wish you were more like the other type?”. As the conversation evolves, the oft-misunderstood “Type C” mom adds a new facet to the discussion and Sahar and Rachel wonder what the results of the survey would have been if all 3 types were included.Whether you are set in your Type A ways, always willing to go with the Type B flow, or are somewhere in between, you won't want to miss this energetic, hilarious, and insightful discussion!Want to take part in surveys like this one? Follow @swan_sahar @rackenz and @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel to avoid missing out!

Ep. 8 - Sahar and Rachel Share Birth Stories: Part 2
Welcome back to another episode of Unprepared with Rachel and Sahar! In an effort to leave no story unfinished, we pick up right where we left off with Madi’s birth story!We leave no stone unturned, from the whirlwind that is the delivery room to the chaotic yet hilarious demands placed on our partners and families during labor. As the conversation progresses, we also explore the unfiltered truth about early days postpartum—like those sleepless nights filled with anxiety and the struggle of adjusting to newborn life amidst a global pandemic.Plus, we share pro tips for prospective parents on what to expect and how to navigate the hustle of the hospital experience. From heartwarming doula support to the not-so-great aspects of recovery, we cover it all! So grab your headphones, settle in, and get ready for a refreshingly honest conversation on motherhood that might just help you feel a little more prepared— or at least entertained!Don’t forget to share your own birth stories with us on Instagram @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel or reach out to the hosts directly at @swan_sahar and @rackenz

Ep. 7 - Sahar and Rachel Share Birth Stories: Part 1
Join Rachel and Sahar in this candid episode of Unprepared as they dive deep into the raw and real experiences of childbirth, exploring the contrasts between their journeys as moms. From the chaos of early labor to the emotional moments of delivery, they share everything—from unexpected hospital experiences to the realities of spouse-based frustration (sorry guys).Sahar recounts her transitions from laboring with her first child, Nina, which involved a combination of unexpected tribulations and joyful moments. Rachel then reflects on her own experience with her firstborn, Madi, where resilience and support systems like her doula played crucial roles during an arduous labor. Get ready for plenty of scares, and “did that really happen?” moments.Whether you’re a future parent, a seasoned mom, or just looking for a good story, you’ll want to hear their heartfelt accounts. Don’t miss out!Share your birth story on Instagram @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel or reach out to the two directly @swan_sahar and @rackenz