Shameless Leadership

Heather Brooker is a mother, actress, and Emmy Award-winning writer. She currently hosts the popular podcast, Motherhood in Hollywood, where she blends her signature sense of humor with a healthy dose of reality about parenthood and the entertainment business. Heather has had roles on many shows, most notably Grey’s Anatomy, The Office and The Mindy Project (I’m beyond jealous!) I didn’t know what to expect in an interview with a Hollywood mom. I’ve been known to have some minor Hollywood obsessions here and there. So, I was kind of hoping for a new Hollywood BFF. Heather Brooker totally made all my dreams come true. Heather is funny and engaging and totally down to earth. We talked about the glitz and glam of being an actress and mom in Hollywood – which is not so glitzty glammy in many cases,.. I know you’ll enjoy Heather’s stories and hearing the reality of life as an actress and mom. Tune in to hear: Perceptions and body image in Hollywood The reality of 99% of Hollywood moms The rollercoaster of a Hollywood career, especially as a mom What the day-to-day life of an actress is really like What happens when Mindy Kaling wants to take a selfie with you Links Mentioned: Heather’s website and podcast: Motherhoodinhollywood.com See Heather’s work: Heather’s Comedy Reel Mindy Kaling’s Book: Why Not Me? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I knew it would happen eventually… I received an email with some “constructive criticism” about the podcast. It was kind of funny, as the “giver” told me she wasn’t going to listen to this podcast anymore, BUT she thought I might want to change my show to be more to her liking in the future. Ummmm, why???? At any rate, I’m not going to change my colors for anyone. I don’t aim to please everyone… Although, I did do that for over 30 years of my life. You don’t have to like me. I’m good. I have plenty of people who make my life great. In fact, those are the only kinds of people I’m looking to share my life experience with now – those who want to live big and be themselves, not someone else’s version of them. So, I’ll do me. You do you. While I’m busy over here doing me, I’m attracting amazing women and moms who want to grow and reach and expand their boundaries. It’s so cool. It’s so validating. It’s so life giving – and life honoring. I really appreciate all that. I certainly can’t risk pleasing everyone or changing my ways to please this listener, in particular, as that would compromise my mission. That would compromise ME. So Imma do me. If you don’t like me, that’s cool. The good news is there are a lot of rad women out there. You’ll find someone else who speaks your language, I’m sure. And for those of you who are cool with me doing me, we have work to do and place to go. We have dreams to build and wine to drink. We have kids to laugh at and passions to follow. Let’s do this! Together. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sara Haley is a mom of two little dudes and personal trainer with a specialized focus on the postpartum core. She helps mom heal Diastasis Recti and pelvic floor dysfunction. She is on a mission to get more moms talking about these very normal conditions. She is also a ton of fun – which makes it really easy to talk to her about postpartum peeing and such. Warning: Sara and I talk (and laugh) about all things peeing and vagina related on this episode. You’ll find it very informative. You’re welcome. In this episode, Sara shares: How to squeeze workouts into a busy schedule 3 reminders to motivate you to workout 5 things not to do after having a baby How to get started with diagnosis and treatment of pelvic floor and core dysfunction Tips, tools (and toys!) that help heal diastasis recti and pelvic floor dysfunction The risks associated with letting pelvic and core injuries go untreated Links Mentioned: Belly bandit – belly wrap Elvie Pelvic Floor Exerciser: video with discount code! Say No To Crunches Challenge Healthy Choices Food Challenge Sara’s Website: SaraHaley.com Sara on Facebook Sara on Instagram Sara on Periscope Sara on YouTube (tons of excellent videos and workouts!) Sara’s Postnatal YouTube playlist Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

My home workouts are a KEY part of my day, 5 days a week. The convenience of home workouts make them a total no brainer for me. It’s easy to over think and over complicate home workouts. I want to help you with that! No need to spend a ton of money. No need to spend oodles of time sweating alone in your basement. Home workouts can be super efficient and effective, done in 10-30 minutes, 3-5 days a week! Reasons to workout at home: Save time Save money Model healthy habits to your kids Engage your kids in your workouts How to decide what equipment to get: Consider your goals Know thyself – don’t opt for something boring that will collect dust (aka $3,000 treadmill) Space constraints Budget constraints You can read the full show notes at www.shamelessmom.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today I am talking with Dr. Jennifer Freed, a child psychologist and the co-founder of AHA! (Attitude.Harmony.Achievement.), a youth-focused non-profit that works to end bullying, improve self-esteem, and empower teens through emotional learning and creative expression. AHA! was founded in response to the Columbine tragedy and here I am recording this interview 2 days after the Orlando massacre. I think you’ll agree the work of Jennifer and her organization has never been more imperative. When I scheduled this interview it was intended to be about bullying – which Jennifer and I discuss in depth. But, we also talk through some things you can do to work through the Orlando tragedy. This is a deeply sad time for many people and I wanted to use Jennifer as a resource for those of you who may be struggling in processing the Orlando event. In this episode, Jennifer shares: How to take care of yourself and your emotions after a time of crisis (like the Orlando tragedy) How to introduce young kids to different emotions What 3 things to do when your child/teen is experiencing challenging or overwhelming emotions What do to and what NOT to do if your child is being bullied What steps to take if your child is exhibiting bullying behavior Why it’s inappropriate to label a child a “bully” Links Mentioned: eMotion Cards Book: The Second Family by Ron Taffel Dr Robert Brooks Dr. Jennifer Freed and all her books & resources : http://www.jenniferfreed.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I think many of us are struggling to recover from the trauma of the Orlando Massacre. I took all of last week to think about how I could address this on the podcast. This episode is what came out of my week of reflection. I want to be more shameless. I mean, it’s the only way I can really own The Shameless Mom Academy, right? So, here I am – more shameless than I have been on any other episode. I want you to know I stand for: Equal rights Women Children I hope you do too. I also want you to know I have zero time or patience for: The NRA Anyone who is cool with the legalization of weapons of mass destruction Old men making rules for young women Using religion as a crutch for homophobia Brock and Dan Turner Lack of empathy We’re all in this together, yet we stand so divided. If we treated other people the way we want our children to be treated everything would be so different. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’re a lover of a good To Do List, but not great at accomplishing the big items on your list, you NEED a little lesson in GSD. Remember, every time you say yes to one thing, you are saying no to many other things. In this episode, you’ll learn how to: Prioritize the things that will move you closer to a goal or forward in some area of your life Stop doing the mundane things that don’t move your forward (you don’t have to fold the laundry, people) Create a functional GSD Be ok with the incompletion of insignificant tasks Manage Parkinson’s Law more efficiently Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ok, don’t hate…. Y’all know I love my wine. Love. And I know I’m not alone. You love it too, right?? We’re in this together. I recently had a long wine/weight loss convo with my gym members here in Seattle and I thought it would be worthwhile to share the conversation with you. So, here goes… Today you’ll learn: The truth about alcohol and weight loss What happens to your blood sugar regulation when you drink Why drinking wakes you up in the middle of the night Why drinking makes you hangry and carb crazy How drinking helps you store fat I will also give you 6 tips to drinking smarter! Don’t worry I’m not going to ask you to give up your precious nectar. Like I said, we’re in this together. Links Mentioned: Shameless Mom Academy Episode 18, Jill Coleman: How To Eat Every Damn Day Girls Gone Strong Article: Wine and Your Waistline: How Alcohol Affects Your Health, Hormones and Fat Loss Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I asked Halley Bock to join me for an interview after reading her article on Passion vs Purpose recently. I didn’t know she was such well rounded badass who has owned her space for quite some time – as in owning her company, owning her path to motherhood, owning her relationship with herself, and owning her upcoming book. Halley is a leader in every way – with a mission to lead more people into revering their relationship with themselves. Halley is also a mom to two kids - and she and her wife both got to experience the joy (and hell) of pregnancy and childbirth. I was particularly excited to ask her about the role of Family Manager, which often falls upon the mom. When there are two moms, who gets that role? Listen in to hear: How Halley and her wife Deli became the moms to two fantastic kiddos How two moms rule a family – and who is the Family Manager The BS that is work/life “balance” The loss of connection through conversation The disconnection between your life and YOU How to follow your passion and find your purpose The perfect superpower Halley and Deli want to give all moms Related Links: www.HalleyBock.com Life Incorporated on Instagram Article: Passion or Purpose: Which Should You Pursue? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today I’m going to get you all caught up my current life craziness, which mostly entails the #damndog’s diarrhea and more IVF “fact finding”. From there we’ll dive into meditation. I fully admit to being a sucky meditator, but I think it’s important and potentially critical at this time in my life, so I’m determined to stick with it. Today, I’ll share with you: Why I’m meditating 5 days a week How to keep meditions super simple The meditation app I’m using (that I love!) The benefits of meditation How meditation can impact weight loss, sleep, depression, anxiety, quality of life Why YOU should meditate too – even if you suck at it Related Links: Article: 10 Science Based Reasons to Start Meditating Today Headspace App Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you haven’t already listened to Episode 27, 10 Ways to Slay, go listen to that first. THEN, hop back here to learn how to Be A Quitter. I want to lead a quitting revolution. Can we all quit the things we hate to create more space for the things we love? The world would be such a better place. I mean, no laundry would ever get done, but who cares?! I get super annoyed when I hear “inspirational” quotes about not quitting – like these: “Pain is temporary, quitting lasts forever.” “Failure only happens when you give up trying, so never quit.” “Quitting is not an option.” I call BS. There is a time and a place for quitting. And you probably often ignore the signs you should quit something because you have been trained to persevere and be a maryr. Enough of that crap, already. Please Be A Quitter when something or someone: Does not serves you No longer brings you joy and satisfaction Fills you with dread/misery/rage Holds you back from progress in your life Has evolved into a place that no longer brings value to your life Be A Quitter because: You deserve joy and peace You deserve space for new and better things You time and space is sacred. Treat it that way by not filling it with crap. Listen in to get my 3 steps to practice in your journey to becoming a better Quitter. And remember, if it’s not a HELL YES, it’s a HELL NO. Who’s joining my Quitting Revolution? “Quitting is leading too.” Nelson Mandela Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We all have to do things that overwhelm us. Things we dread and really, really, really don’t want to do. Things that scare the bejeezus out of us. But they have to get done. We have to put on our big girl panties and SLAY. This is tough and can be painful. Which is exactly why I thought you might find some joy and relief if I were to give you 10 Ways to SLAY. Make sure to listen in as I expand on each of these and give examples of exactly how to use each tip. Also… This is a 2 Part episode! Yes – I have too much to say to get it all in one episode. What?? Me – too much to say… I know, total shocker… Make a list of pros Idealize the other side Embrace working through it rather than around it Reward yourself for DONE Look forward to bragging rights Let yourself learn your way through it Let is suck Break it down into smaller tasks Ask for help/support/outsource Be a Quitter Make sure you stay tuned for our next episode and listen in to episode 28 where I dive DEEP into #10 and teach you how to be a better quitter. You will thank me. Promise. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Misty Mozejko is a single mom who tells it like it is just as much as I do. I connected with her on Facebook and found myself totally crushing on her educational and often hilarious posts about womanhood, fitness/health, and motherhood. In the 10 years since becoming a mom, Misty has lost 120 pounds, started her own fitness business, endured divorce, embraced single motherhood, started a women’s business group and proven that she is 100% unstoppable. Listen in as she shares: * Her weight loss story and journey into her own fitness business * The truth about weight loss and body image insecurity * The pros of single parenting (hint: she gets DAYS OFF – jealous much??) * What she wants her son to learn from her mission * Her advice to moms who feel short on resources to follow their passion Where to find Misty and links mentioned: Misty’s Boot Camp in Whitby, Ontario CA: www.10000strongbootcamp.com Misty’s online community for female entrepreneurs: www.10000strong.com Shameless Mom Academy Episode 13: How To Be a Better Stalker & Fangirl Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I spent the first 30 years of my life trying to be perfect. What a waste! I’ve spent the last 10 years of my life taking imperfect action. It has been a little scary – and 100% liberating. If I didn’t give up perfection, I would not own the businesses I own today. So much of my life would be different. So much of my life with be less than it is today. Why? Because perfect kinda sucks. Perfect is an illusion. True perfection is actually quite imperfect. In this episode you’ll how to overcome perfectionism and why imperfect action is critical for making big progress in any area your life. We’ll also talk about Analysis Paralysis and why you must stop letting Good be the enemy of Perfect. This is especially for all my Type A Shameless Moms. Enjoy! Links Mentioned: Shameless Mom Academy Episode 9: How to Take a Flying Leap Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I met Ophira in a hot tub in Sayulita, Mexico. It was just as romantic as it sounds. My husband and I had never before, nor have we ever since, made vacation friends. Meeting Ophira and her husband, Jonathan, was hitting the vacation friend jackpot. We know we’ll never get that lucky again. When I met Ophira she was a stand up comedian in New York City. She still is. And she’s amazing. But since meeting her 6 or so years ago, she has endured the longest, darkest journey of her life – while still getting up on stage to make others laugh. In this episode, Ophira and I talk about her life off stage over the last couple years. The life her audience couldn’t see. The life she couldn’t share. Because you can’t get on stage and laugh about cancer and miscarriages – until they are over. Then they are fair game for comedy content, right? Ophira recently became a first time mom at 43 - after slaying the NYC comedy scene, landing a job at NPR, writing her memoir Screw Everyone: Sleeping My Way to Monogamy, and beating cancer. She literally did it all and did a lot of guys along the way (sorry, I had to throw that in there.) This episode will make you laugh, for sure. But it will also give you some amazing perspective on the true pursuit of happiness. Also, take note of the superpower Ophira wants to give all moms. We NEED this, ladies. Connect with Ophira here: Medium.com article: From a Cancer Diagnosis to Miscarriage to Pregnant – at 43 Ophira’s Memoir: “Screw Everyone: Sleeping My Way to Monogamy” Ophira on NPR’s Ask Me Another Ophira’s Comedy Album: BANGS! See Ophira live at SHIT SHOW on May 26, 2016 in NYC! Ophira on Facebook Ophira in Instagram Ophira on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Last week was my Infirmary Tour. With my mom in town for a week, we visited sick & recovering friends/relatives and sat at my sister’s bedside as she successfully endured thyroid surgery. Then Vinnie got a staph infection. Then I got my period early. Then I realized I had no tampons. It was a week of not getting done any of the things I NEEDED to get done and not sitting in my own space to do the things I normally do. This is me NOT at my finest. Not at my most positive. But still trying to be a damn Pollyanna. It’s not all rainbows & unicorns, friends. Oh, and apparently Vinnie likes my belly button. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Erin Brown is someone I have long admired. Erin is one of the first women I found online who was part of a much-needed movement to encourage women to STOP shrinking. Her words and philosophies have been hugely impactful and healing to me in the last 4 years. Erin gives women permission to unapologetically stand in their space “As Is” (the name of her first book.) She is brilliant and graceful, but also bold, honest and raw. I knew I wanted to interview Erin long before I launched The Shameless Mom Academy. So, it was an honor to record this with her. Listen in and hear Erin share: Her journey into motherhood and personal training that was not about weight loss, although it yielded weight loss How she evolved from Fit Mama Training, a place where she was often criticized, into I Am Erin Brown, a place where she is revered. How she learned to manage mommy rage The power of sharing her experience with sexual assault to stop intergenerational trauma The magic of her new book, Letters To Lola – and how Lola has inspired her to change the landscape for all women and girls Links: Web: http://iamerinbrown.com/ Follow Erin on Facebook Letters From Mom Workbook Letters To Lola on Amazon As Is on Amazon (print version) As Is Ebook Energy Clearing by Cindy Dale Cheryl Strayed Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I was recently at two different events that both brought home the message, “How You Do Anything Is How You Do Everything”. Receiving this message twice in a short period of time hit me over the head. I knew it was perfect for an SMA episode. How do you do things? What is your attitude when times are tough? How do you model positivity and persistence? Here are my 8 Tips To Be Better At Anything Look for the silver linings Look for the funny story Give 3 put ups for every put down Expect more – stop being Eeyore Practice gratitude constantly Thank everyone for everything Start sentences with, “I appreciate….” Be the spokesperson for positivity Links Mentioned: http://fitbottomedmamas.com/2012/04/what-no-one-tells-you-about-infertility/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Here’s what I want my Mother’s Day to look like: Wake up in a quiet space with no people around me Lay in bed and read Mimosa and french toast delivery Get a massage Go shopping Lunch with unlimited wine (maybe with friends, not with family) Catch up on Real Housewives Unlimited dark chocolate consumption Nap Vodka gimlet happy hour with girlfriends Date night with husband I don’t want to: Prepare any meals or snacks Think about what the hell is for dinner Do laundry Do dishes Empty the dishwasher Go grocery shopping I don’t want to negotiate: How many bites of breakfast Or lunch Or dinner How many minutes till naptime What toys can come in the car What toys can come in bed What toys can go to school How cracked the door is at bedtime Is tonight bath night Do we have to wash hair Is mommy or daddy reading stories I don’t want to look for: The missing tiny, clear lego piece The random toy someone gave us two years ago that is suddenly of the utmost significance The beloved soccer shirt that must be worn everyday I also don’t want to: Pack a school lunch Cut your bread the wrong way Give you the wrong cup Or the wrong spoon Or the wrong napkin. Oh, and I really don’t want to clean pee off the wall or poop off your bum – or the toilet seat, or the leg of your pants. Furthermore, I don’t want to feed the dog, smell the dog, let the dog out, keep the kid from yanking the dog’s tail, or clean the dog’s diarrhea off the heated floors The best gift you could give me is a day alone. A day where I would do everything I never get to do on my own timeline. BUT, here’s what would happen… I would look at pictures of you. I would watch the video of your first bath. I would watch the video of you crawling on the beach and squawking like a seagull when you were 10 months old. I would watch the video of your first steps at Lala’s house, chasing a piece of cheese. I would look at that picture of us on the ferry to Nantucket where your hair is blowing in the wind and you are filled with bliss. I would look at the picture of you on your first day of preschool, filled with concern and cuteness. I would look at the picture of you this Christmas when you realized that the Santa dude brings PRESENTS. I would look at the picture of you laughing with your dad that I just took a couple weeks ago. I would be away from you and all I would want is to be with you. Because that’s how it works, isn’t it? I need you as much as you need me. So, we will spend mother’s day together. There will likely be some epic meltdowns, because history tells me that Mother’s Day is when those are most likely to happen. There might be a time out or two (for me, if not for you). There will be wine and chocolate – but probably not in unlimited quantities, because I will want to be the one to read you bedtime stories and share your final snuggle of the day. To all you mamas out there who want Mother’s Day to be about NOT being a mom for 24 hours, I HEAR you. And I raise a glass to you. Being a mother to my Vinnie is the honor of a lifetime – although it usually doesn’t feel that way. But there are moments when it strikes me over the head – like the few times we have had to go to Seattle Children’s Hospital for little things and I have to hold back tears walking through the hospital doors because I am acutely aware that some kids walk though these doors and they never walk out. I get to me someone’s mom. It is a job I will fail at miserably. But in spite of that it will always be my biggest and more proud accomplishment. No matter what you do today, know that you are someone’s most special person. How lucky are you?? Happy Mother’s Day Shameless Moms. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I’m so grateful to my friend Jillian Mitchell for sharing her story of fostering to adopt her son, Fletcher. Jillian and her husband Matty went through quite the journey to find the family they were always meant to have. As a young couple, Jillian and Matty set out to foster a child before ever trying to have biological children, knowing there are so many kids out there who need and deserve an amazing family. On December 28, 2011, they received the phone call that made them parents and within hours they were bringing their son home with them. What followed was over 2 years of highs and lows and a lot of love. They didn’t know how their foster story would end, but they were able to fully embrace Baby Fletcher as their son immediately, having agreed with each other early on that, “Whatever child we bring home deserves all of our hearts no matter what happens. When they are with us we will love them like they will be with us forever, no matter what happens.” For 2 years, Jillian and Matty worked through a grueling court mandated visitation schedule where Fletcher had time with his biological mom (sometimes 4 days a week – where he cried through entire visits as Jillian listened in from outside). They endured many court dates and changes of events & routines as Fletcher’s biological mom bounced in & out of sobriety and rehab. On more than one occasion, they feared they may lose their son. You will note how calm and graceful Jillian is as she shares their story. Even in the darkest moments of her life, knew she was with the family she was meant to have. She admits her gut told her, “I know it’s going to be okay because I know this is my son.” I can’t thank Jillian and Matty enough for sharing their story. I hope it inspires another couple to go out and find the family they are meant to have. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode is pretty raw for me. It is not an easy thing for me to talk about, but I think it is an extremely important topic. It deeply saddens me to see so many women consumed by shrinking. I want to change that and I think sharing my story can help a lot of women. Today I share: How much I weighed before, during and after pregnancy Why the scale is lame and meaningless The medical issues that can interfere with weight loss How to find comfort in the skin you’re in If you exercise consistently and make healthy food choices and struggle to lose weight, here are some tests you can ask your doctor or naturopath about: *general blood work (including Vit D, Iron, Iron stores, B vitamins) *thyroid panel (can be done with general blood work) *fasting blood glucose series (this is multiple draws before/after sugary drink - this might only be relevant if you have a fam history of diabetes, but worth asking about) *adrenal testing (spit test?) *sleep study (only necessary if sleep apnea might be a concern - do you snore?) *sleep consult (only necessary if you're routinely getting less than 7 hours of sleep) *food sensitivity testing (can be done via blood draw) I have found naturopaths are excellent at spending a lot of time really diving in and closely looking at this information, more than MDs. Most naturopaths will book a 90-minute intake appointment, which is really necessary to dig deep into your concerns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Back in Episode 13, I shared with you that I’m a bit of a stalker. Jill Coleman is someone I’ve been stalking for a couple years now. Her story about the evolution of her relationship with food is something I relate to 100%. As I’ve taken a gentler approach with food in recent years, I have been so inspired by everything Jill has to say. In fact, I’ve adopted many of her philosophies (especially when it comes to WINE – can I get an AMEN?!?) If you struggle with food at all, you will learn a ton today! Today Jill shares with us: How to finally find and manage moderation in your diet (#moderation365) The use of pre-emptive cheats to ward off binging and over the top indulgences (enter: wine!) The truth about food scarcity and how it messes with your head How to eat within reason and feely fully satisfied everyday (#satisfactionfactor) How to recover and be a little more kind to yourself when you “fall off the wagon” Links: To read more fully about Jill and her philosophies about food, head over to: www.JillFit.com On May 3rd, Jill will be launching her TreadLift program here: www.TreadLift.com For more Shameless Mom info on “Bad” Food Days, check out Episode 03. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Before I start this episode on the topic of why you should not hustle I have to say thank you. Thank you to all of you who listen to this podcast, comment, share your stories or leave reviews! I woke up this morning and saw on iTunes that The Shameless Mom Academy is ranking in 3 categories for new and noteworthy! So thank you so much for your feedback! Why you shouldn’t you hustle? I have five reasons why you shouldn’t! The hustle can have such an effect on your body not just physically but mentally as well. Your body needs rest and a chance to recharge so you don’t lose your mojo or passion. Today we learn: Long term is not so pretty—for me personally I’m not going to lie some of it has to do with my age You don’t want to burn out and lose passion—At 25 I burned out to the point that I wanted to get my tubes tied! I went back to school for another field that didn’t work with kids—Don’t get to the point you burn out You will lose your mojo—pace yourself Not sustainable—my business has to be sustainable between 9 to 5, anything before or after those hours I’m not responsible for It’s not fair to your loved ones and YOURSELF—If you’re busy hustling when do you have time for anything else? The impact it has on your body…literally—don’t push yourself so hard it could affect your health No space left for creativity—you need to rest and recharge If you want something bad enough, you will make it happen— try to relax on deadlines to make sure this is what you want to do You will make it work if you have to—don’t make it seem sacrificial You can’t quit right? WRONG! —When you quit something you are opening up the door for something new Links Mentioned: www.shamelessmomacademy.com/review Yes Please by Amy Poehler Year of Yes: How to Dance It out, Stand in the Sun and be Your Own Person by Shonda Rhimes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Craig Ballantyne is a Productivity and Success transformation coach, an author and a Fitness expert. His new book is called The Perfect Day Formula. He also created the successful Turbulence Training fitness program. Craig has been my business coach since before my son was born. He gets more done in a day that anyone I know. He keeps things simple and sets himself up for success each day. He’s our first male guest on the show, but once I started reading his book, The Perfect Day Formula, I knew so much of it was relevant to Moms and I had to bring Craig on to share the formula! In this show, Craig shares the following: How Craig built his systems The why behind the book and the freedom it can afford What led up the the 3C’s You can only control how you respond to things, not the things Reactive people always struggle - can you relate to Craig’s description? Reactive people never plan ahead and only respond to other people’s emergencies Proactive people start the day off right because they started preparing for it yesterday Why you should brain dump as often as you brush your teeth How 5 minutes of clear thinking can change your life Planning and preparing is what gets you ahead Getting a small victory first thing in the morning is critical to having a great day You don’t have to get up early to have the Perfect Day Why setting up your own rules for each day sets you up for success You make time for things you have a rule for Everyone has interruptions to their schedule and problems accomplishing things Control what you can control and don’t worry about the rest Ways to reward yourself without just using sugar, caffeine and alcohol How Sara completely gave up caffeine The difference between a purity day and a regular day The #1 thing you can do to own your day, each and every day! Get the book on Amazon - The Perfect Day Formula PerfectDayFormula.com - get the kit to assist you in creating your vision You can read his daily blog at earlytorise.com shamelessmom.com/review - If you found this episode meaningful, leave a review Follow us on Instagram and Facebook - Shameless Mom Academy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I got a lot of feedback from episode 3 when we talked about “having bad days with food”. There is no such thing! What you eat does not define who you are or what kind of person you are. If you haven’t listened to episode 3 you should pop on over and listen. To kind of tie in with episode 3 we are going to talk about sugar and cravings. I am going to give you some tips and tools to fight back against those sugar cravings! A lot of people believe that they eat lots of sugar because they have no willpower. This is wrong! It is not about willpower. If you have had sugar recently or eat it frequently then you will crave that sugar. So let’s talk about some less challenging ways to get rid of those sugar cravings. We are going to talk about: “Pro pros” aka protein and produce—don’t give that junk food room in your diet! Blood sugar break down—You want a slower breakdown of sugar so you can feel fuller longer Crowding out vs quitting—quitting can sometimes make your cravings stronger! Produce = more energy The key to making sane choices—eating lots of protein or produce for your first meal of the day. (Hangry isn’t pretty on anyone) Bulk up your meals—Using greens and veggies is a fantastic way to pump your meal up Chop that stuff up! — nobody likes to see the stem of your spinach hanging out of your mouth while you are talking Links Mentioned: If you love the show, it would mean so much if you would leave us a review in iTunes. To make it easier, click here: Shamelessmom.com/review Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Every mom remembers what it was like to be a teenager right? And we all remember that predictability and teenagers is nonexistent. Imagine starting out motherhood with teenagers! Jen Briggs, a dear friend of mine who is a business and life coach has done just that! As you can imagine it’s probably not easy to maneuver into a family that was once three and is now four. Step mothers also get a bad rap in our society. Which by the way not all step mothers are evil. With her new marriage, kids, new business and recent move she is going to tell us how she makes it all work. Jenn shares with us: Trying to “fit” in—it’s hard not to take things personal when you are trying hard to please someone else “Thirty Days of Yes” —you have to listen to this! Outside therapy—sometimes it’s good to get an outside perspective. Sometimes just talking out loud can really help! Make time to care for yourself—make dates for exercising and friends or things that will give you enough space to take care of yourself Prioritize the things that make you happy and give you the most—what are your values? Emotional intelligence—make better connections! Links Mentioned: Headspace app www.facebook.com/heyjenbriggs www.twitter.com/heyjenbriggs www.instagram.com/heyjenbriggs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I am an amazing stalker and I totally own that! I’m not a creeper, because there is a difference! I try to use my stalking powers for good and that’s what we are talking about today. My stalking comes out of my desire to connect with certain people and figuring out how to create those connection opportunities! This is going to be fun, so join us! There are lots of really great reasons to engage your stalking skills: To get to know people to expand my inner circle To make your inner circle more powerful To take a leap that will get you to the next level To hang out with people that are more successful than you You want to change and shift your inner circle You get to make authentic connections with people out of your “league” I had the desire to do this at one point in my life when I joined a mastermind. I went to my first meeting without a website or any sort of online business. Even though it was scary, I was surrounded by people that were very successful in online business. This helped me more than anything I could have done alone in my business. Ask yourself: What can I learn about them so that I can start learning from them? How do you start stalking? Lead with a compliment. Find common ground upon which to build a relationship. If you have nothing else to offer to them, be their supporter, their cheerleader. Make sure they know you are deliberate in wanting to have a relationship. I was able to use these tips to connect with someone this past week that I look up to! I was able to make contact with Lewis Howes at an event.. I was very intentional about trying to connect with him, and I happened to connect 3 different times, so hopefully this will lead to more connections at some of his events in the future. At the same event, I was able to meet several other people that I admire, and I will be having them on the podcast. Even though they were out of my league, I still put myself out there and made the connection. One of them was Jill Coleman - My guru for having a healthy relationship with food - check her out at www.jillcoleman.com This isn’t super comfortable for me, but I approached my stalking at this event with no shame in my game, and it paid off! Don’t be afraid to be a stalker! Don't forget to check us out at www.shamelessmom.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I’m sure all moms can agree that life turns fast pace when you become a mom. It’s hard to slow down when you are trying to keep up with your kids, your house, being a wife, just everyday life. Sometimes you have to slow it down a bit. Learn how to balance everything in life but especially time with family. Maria Ross, our guest on the show today is going to share with us some tidbits that she uses to balance between life and business. Maria is a brand strategist, author, actress, owner of Red Slice and speaker. She has received several praises for her book: “Branding Basics for Small Business”. And her second book called “Rebooting my Brain” is a really good read, especially if you have ever been through a health scare. She suffered a ruptured brain aneurysm and this book is a memoir on her amazing recovery. Maria is an inspiration and this episode is definitely worth the listen! Maria shares with us: You have to slow down sometimes—not everything is going to be perfect The days are long but the years are short Go to a lactation specialist if you need help—there is nothing wrong with asking for a little help! Make sure to set work hours and then set time to spend time with family Don’t try to cram everything into a small amount of time—you won’t be 100% trust me Momentum comes to a screeching halt when you have kids—but the detox is actually good for business ideas! If you are going to be “selfish”, exercise is a great thing to be selfish about—show your kids that exercise is important Links Mentioned: www.redslice.com twitter: @redslice email: maria [at] red-slice[dot]com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Let’s face it, fitting exercise into our busy mommy lives can be a struggle sometimes. Today we are going to be talking about ways to make exercise part of your morning routine. The reason I say “part” of your morning routine is because when you have kids you just don’t know how your day is going to go! Obviously things happen, like your kid has a fever all night, so your workout is probably not going to happen first thing in the morning. But exercising can really help with certain struggles we may have with our kids and ourselves. Today we will talk about: How I have found exercising helps me mentally—and how it can help you Working out in the morning helps make healthier decisions Exercising is not punishment!!! Key elements to making exercise part of your morning routine and the whole family Get up earlier, make exercise part of your identity and think of exercise as a gift not a punishment! Interruptions are not good…try to the best of your ability not to have interruptions during exercising Length of your workout doesn’t always doesn’t necessarily mean long and drawn out—don’t be ashamed of starting small Visit the website to listen to all the episodes! www.shamelessmom.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today on the show we have a good friend of mine, Susie Lane. Susie is a mom, chef and has had her own business, The Kitchen Door since 2005. The Kitchen door is a Seattle based business that provides meal solutions for busy families. We are going to talk about Susie’s challenges and victories on running her business mostly from home and how to build your legacy with passion. We will talk today about: How did Susie manage running her business from home and the hospital… Her personal goal for her business—very important goal! Quantity vs quality Go out and get the book Live your Life from the Front Seat by Jessica Butts What exactly is a calendar situation? Be thankful for having a job but be passionate too Links Mentioned: www.kitchendoormeals.com www.amazon.com www.jessicabutts.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome! Launch has been incredible! I have gotten so many messages, and I have been overwhelmed with support for this launch! So, let’s talk about the obvious. We have a new name. I got an email about trademarks and copyrights, etc. related to the podcast. So, this sent me into a major panic, because I never intended to do anything wrong. It turns out I had to change the name of the podcast because I was infringing on someone’s trademark. So this has turned into a wild ride already! I learned a few things about myself through this situation: I’m not ok with being bullied and talked down to Written communication can be challenging to interpret tone We all handle stress differently I get completely stressed out when I feel like I did something wrong Sometimes I am too quick to give in to pressure I am not a very good self-advocate under stress I could really embrace the word “shameless” in talking about my podcast This happened so something better can come out of it Shameless speaks to owning where you are and being ok with it I hate having messes on my plate I think this little bump is going to work out for the good It’s easy to be advocates for everyone but ourselves sometimes Pivoting doesn’t mean you are backing down I’m excited about this change moving forward Until next time, do something shameless! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Let’s talk about taking a flying leap! So many times we don’t make certain decisions or do certain things because we think we can’t. We are going to talk about ways to get to that place to take a leap and how to take a flying leap and make it work. Today we are going to talk about: Scariest place is at the start line! Focus on progress not perfection How do you schedule time to take a leap? How do you make your leap part of your identity? Stalking… Do it! Links Mentioned: www.youtube.com/my120poundlife Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today on the show we are going to be talking with Laurie Kennedy. Laurie is a Toronto based nutritionist, health and wellness business expert, online strategist and mother of two. She works with health practitioners, healers, coaches and fitness professionals who want to start up their purpose driven businesses. Laurie does not mess around! Laurie makes it all work beautifully, even though it’s not always so beautiful. We are going to talk about the challenges of having kids, the challenges of working with her husband (he is business partner), and dirty moments like when she broke down in a hotel shower on Mother’s Day and the magic of 5 am. Laurie shares with us: When things don’t go your way you just need to laugh and don’t take everything so seriously Messiest moment she has ever had—Mother’s day: just to be left alone for 24 hours. This is when she realized that she needed to take care of herself and get her alone time more often so that she didn’t feel this way again. Spending an extra day on a business trip is not necessarily a good thing. You may get more things done but you should know how you will handle it emotionally. Husband time challenge—different work spaces and don’t bring the work home. The word selfish is the word self with ish 5 am is Laurie’s self-time—she needs the 90 minutes to herself or sometimes spend a whole night and day at a hotel to recharge It’s really nice to not be on someone else’s schedule sometimes Set up a morning routine before the world starts and if you need help get child support! Even if it’s 2 hours a week! This can help you keep from feeling trapped. Her legacy is to help women know that you don’t have to do things if you don’t want to just because Links Mentioned: www.theselfishmomacademy.com www.facebook.com/lauriekennedy www.facebook.com/lauriekennedyrhn www.lauriekennedyrhn.com www.thatwellbusiness.com You visit our website at http://selfishmomacademy.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are going to go into a dark place and talk about trauma. I recently experienced trauma on vacation and it’s been a little difficult to come back from. Trauma and vacation do not go together! Today we are going to talk about: It’s important to talk about what you experience I will always be a therapy advocate! If you don’t want to or don’t have someone to talk to there are other ways to get your feelings out about a traumatic experience Don’t be afraid of stepping out when you feel like staying in! You can find the show notes at http://selfishmomacademy.com/07-what-happens-when-you-witness-trauma Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Have you ever tried to do something to get out of your comfort zone, only to have it go terribly wrong and have your life flash before your eyes? Yeah, that happened to me and my son! Then we’re going to talk about one of my biggest passions! I have built an entire career on it for the last 13 years. That’s right! We are going to talk about exercise! What kind of exercise is right for you and how you can integrate it into your life, and how to make it feel like it’s not a big chore. In today’s episode: Having a guilty mom moment—We took a family trip and went tubing to try something out of our comfort zones and it was terrifying! Vinny did recover from his shell shock. Thank God! If something doesn’t feel quite right listen to your gut! Before I was into exercise and athletics, I was a mac and cheese kid—broke my thumb in gym class. Best day of my life! Six weeks on the sideline! Woot! Always be aware of your goal when you exercise—fat loss, weight loss, stress relief, movement Determine the type of exercise—fat loss or weight loss: safe weight strength training, interval training General health—walking and running at a low to moderate pace. Just get your heart rate going. Stress relief—find something to zone out! Walk, run, hiking, yoga etc. Enjoyment of movement—sports, clubs or outdoor activities Schedule your exercise! If you don’t you will negotiate your way out of it! Accountability can be essential. Do what you have to do to make yourself do it. Effective and efficient. Exercising 3 days a week is a good start. Focus on afterglow when you don’t want to do your exercises. Do things on a regular basis. Be a good model. Teach your kids that movement and eating healthy is the norm. Links Mentioned: www.theselfishmomacademy.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Maybe you have had a day or two of these? Especially since having a child my anxiety can be through the roof. It can be because of what I have on my to do list and sometimes it’s just a bunch of random things and I’m having a hard time managing it. So I’m going to talk about my nervousness and anxiety and what has helped to turn around my day. Let’s face it we have to get things done and it’s so much easier to get things done if you are feeling positive and optimistic. So here are three tips that I want you to use to help turn around any tough day that comes your way. On today’s episode we will talk about: If I’m being honest I have probably been dealing with anxiety my whole life Sometimes being in a positive place is not easy for me—I just want to have wine, chocolate and The Real Housewives—Yes I said it The Real Housewives Tip number 1: create space—this might mean going for a walk, listening to music, listening to podcasts Head space app- meditation: I am a pretty sucky meditator but this could be a way to clear your mind to be creative Exercise of course can relieve stress or anxiety and help reframe your day Tip number 2: finding another focus—dive into a project that will channel that energy to be creative, call your mom, help someone else Get out of the physical location that you are having your break down at Escape—take a bath, watch tv Tip number 3: talk it through—it’s amazing how much talking to someone about a problem can help you work through it Write it out if you don’t have someone to talk to Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I’m going to talk about putting my kid in daycare and not even feeling guilty about it. I know I’m supposed to feel guilty about this but I don’t and I’m going to tell you why. In this episode we will talk about: Daycare was not a bad thing for me. But going to entrepreneur workshops put this image out that you know you have made it when you don’t have put your kids in daycare. Newborn land was not what I thought it was going to be I was unable to help my clients and started feeling captive in my own house I learned that I needed a sense of accomplishment at the end of the day—I’m not saying that being a stay at home mom cannot be an accomplishment to be proud of. It is hard work! When I put my son in daycare it helped me set definitive boundaries between work and motherhood I’m supposed to feel guilty about putting my kid in daycare right? I don’t feel guilty at all. I am helping him with social skills It still is challenging for me to juggle things Links mentioned: www.theselfishmomacademy.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today’s episode we are going to talk about how to not have bad food days. I’m going to give you tips and tools that will make you look at food differently and change your food habits. So get ready there is going to be some major mindset shifts! Everyone has relationship with food and most of us do not have a healthy relationship with food. Let’s start working on it right now! Today we talk about: Let’s stop labeling days good or bad based on what we put in our mouths! —this impacts the way you eat, self-esteem and how other people see you I have had a troubled relationship with food since I was young—I went through a four to six-year period where fat was my biggest enemy We are not what we eat and we are not the value of what we put in our mouths! Food is food and not good or bad just different nutritional values People are self-conscious about ordering food when I am there—I don’t care what you are eating! Don’t talk about having a “good” or “bad” day in front of your kids—this will impact their relationship with food Think about the triggers for food—replace a habit with another habit You make at least 200 decisions that are focused on your weight. Focus on the positive things that have happened in your day and not on what food you ate that day that you think are “bad”. So you ate a donut…move on! Links Mentioned: www.theselfishmomacademy.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today’s episode we will be talking about how to become more powerful in your daily life and how becoming powerful will help you with all goals in all areas of your life. I’m going to give you five tips on how to perpetuate power and how potty training has created more power for us in our house. We will be talking about in this episode: Even though my son was standing in a puddle of his own pee and investigating his poop with a flashlight he has gained that confidence and power that he can go to the potty all by himself. This make me feel like he is more powerful. Who are the people that you think are powerful and what do they hold? You’re not really powerful unless other people think you are powerful. Tip number 1: get clear on goals and know why they are important—my son has the power to hold his bladder for hours but didn’t realize it until it was important for using the potty Tip number 2: consistently self-power—is this taking me closer or further from a goal. Don’t waste your time on something that is taking you further away from a goal. Tip number 3: remove negative thinking—any time you use negative energy on something you have wasted time and energy that could have been positive Tip number 4: take calculated risks—I’m not saying take risks that can be potentially damaging but if you don’t take risks you will get stuck. You don’t want this! Tip number 5: put yourself first—you can be more self-less if you are more selfish. Links Mentioned: Don't forget to join us for all the episodes at www.theselfishmomacademy.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today’s episode we are going to be talking about the four pillars of being a selfish mom. The four things that make mom’s tick if we can get all four of these in unison. Also, a little bit about the controversy about the name of my podcast. Here is what we will be discussing: Controversy and confrontation makes me very nervous Why did I pick the name I did for my podcast? Selfish is a positive thing! Yes, I would say I am very selfish but I live my life in a way where I am selfish in a selfless way The pursuit of mommy marterism is real! – let’s bring it down a notch When I am completely selfless I am worthless to everyone Pillar number 1: self-care-needs a routine around movement - take a walk, have a girl’s night etc. Also, make sure you are eating good foods and have a hobby. Pillar number 2: pursuit of your passion- establish goals to make a part time passion maybe a full time passion. Sometimes you have to give up some things to create space to do passion projects Pillar number 3: dedicated family time- this is a challenge for me! My mind does not turn off so it’s hard for me to step away from my projects. Pillar number 4: humor- let’s be honest none of this is easy. Chaos happens and life gets ahead of you. Expect messes. Resources Mentioned on the Show: Don't forget to join us for all the episodes at www.theselfishmomacademy.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I’m super excited about getting this project off the ground. I’ve been sitting on it for months, so this going to be amazing. This is going to be my place to just be a real Mom and be really open about what it’s really like. Just a bit about me. I have been working with women in fitness since 2003. I own my own gym, called Sync Fitness in Seattle. Prior to that, I worked in a Psychiatric Hospital. Believe it or not, I grew up overweight - a real macaroni and cheese kid. I’ve struggled with self- image, and those are some things we are going to be discussing. This is NOT a podcast about fitness. Sure, I will give you some tips on fitness and nutrition as they relate to everyday life. I’m not into cultivating rock hard bodies anymore - I’m into creating an amazing life! Here’s what we’re going to be talking about (or not) on the show: Again, even though you may know me from the fitness industry - this is NOT a fitness podcast. I’m not going to be telling you how to get 6-pack abs. I don’t care about that anymore. I struggled with infertility, so I’m sure there will be some stories from that part of my life here. My journey from brick and mortar business owner to online business owner. The struggles to balance staying home with my baby and running my business. How my reality didn’t match what I thought it would be. Why I did my taxes right after my water broke…..isn’t that what everyone does? How my “failure to thrive” child took over my life The big move of getting my child in childcare outside my home Being a Mom is hard….really hard. The reality of this came crashing down on me It’s ok to have interests on your own that you want to pursue - it doesn’t make you a bad Mom How to find yourself in the midst of Mom-dom The systems and tools I have developed to try to pull it all off My legacy is important, so I have to be a little selfish for the greater good. I want to help you to live the life you want You CAN expect from the show: Tools to be more efficient in your daily life Tips of how to not sacrifice your dreams when you build the life you want How to take care of yourself Things I have learned from coaching I receive Interviews with Moms who have struggled for success Resources Mentioned on the Show: Don't forget to join us for all the episodes over at theselfishmomacademy.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices