The Mom Hour

The picture of fatherhood we see depicted in pop culture is fraught with stereotypes. From the bumbling dad who can’t fasten snaps on a onesie to the overly intense sports dad who pushes his kid on the ball field, the generalizations often don’t represent the truth and in many cases can be harmful to dads’ efforts to be involved and engaged in their kids’ lives. In Episode 141 of The Mom Hour Meagan and Sarah chat with writer, blogger, and activist Whit Honea, who helps bust open some stereotypes about dads and instead craft a picture of fatherhood that is inclusive and inspiring.LINKS MENTIONED:Foundation for Advancing Alcohol Responsibility (Responsibility.org)Whit’s website (WhitHonea.com)#TalkEarly on TwitterMORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Meagan and Sarah are both working more than we have in a long time–and our work schedules have changed recently. In Episode 140 we talk about what’s working (ha!), what isn’t, and how things have evolved since the drop-a-toddler-off-at-daycare years. We also talk about how working moms and stay-at-home moms can support one another, how nothing is forever, and what apps, shortcuts and hacks help us keep it together when work gets overwhelming. Join us!HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What’s the state of our wardrobes? Glad you asked. In Episode 139 Meagan and Sarah go Head-Shoulders-Knees-and-Toes through what’s working and what isn’t when it comes to style for us lately.Find out what Meagan loves about having longish hair for the first time in a decade, why Sarah continues to struggle with leggings and can never find her socks, and hear our takes on two different popular online bra retailers. Plus Katie Addiss joins Sarah at the end for a fashion-related struggle, discovery, and success. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:Other “More-Than-Mom” episodesJane.com (affiliate link / Sarah’s new go-to for really inexpensive trendy pieces)Sarah’s summer hat (left, below) and winter hat (right below)Infiniti Pro by Conair Instant Heat 20 Ceramic Flocked Rollers (Meagan’s new hot rollers)True&Co (the online bra retailer Meagan tried)Third Love (the one Sarah tried)Meagan’s go-to socks by Point6 and SmartWoolSalomon Women’s Hime High Snow Boot (Meagan’s new boots)Fabletics ActivewearLucky Brand Women’s Basel Boot (Sarah has two variations on this ankle boot and loves them)Recent episodes about skincare, hair care, and beauty from our sister-podcasts in the Life, Listened networkHair Health on Crunchy Cocktail HourSkincare & Beauty with Kathleen Jennings on The Home HourHair + Body Positivity on SelfieMorning Skincare Routines and Evening Skincare Routines on Selfie Women’s Wide Leg Floral Flare Palazzo Loose Yoga Pants (Katie’s sister wore these)Racerback Shift Dress (Katie mentioned this as her go-to black dress)MORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What daily habits do happy moms practice? Our answers may surprise you. Join Meagan and Sarah for the second in our two-part series on cultivating happiness during motherhood.LINKS MENTIONED:10 Habits of Happy Moms, Part 1 (Episode 137)What Are Your Mom Superpowers? (Episode 44)Routines, Rituals & Traditions (Episode 129)MORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sarah R. Bagley mothers, writes, podcasts, teaches group fitness, and runs a local women’s entrepreneur group–all while keeping up with the demands and schedules of a toddler, a preschooler, and a first-grader. She’s the first to admit that this hybrid working/momming thing isn’t easy, but her philosophy is all about leaning in to both creative ambition AND the chaos of motherhood.Sarah (Powers!) interviews Sarah (Bagley!) in this episode of The Mom Hour Voices, our first of 2018. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:Sarah (Powers) on the Sarah R. Bagley PodcastMeagan on the Sarah R. Bagley PodcastLesley Miller (formerly of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast) on The Mom HourSarah’s one little word for 2018: SantoshaSarah’s website25% Friends, Sarah’s podcast with Kim Schoenauer@SarahRBagley on InstagramSarah R. Bagley on FacebookMYERS-BRIGGS test from 16personalities.comENNEAGRAM test from ecclecticenergies.comAfter you take the tests, we recommend the full Myers-Briggs type descriptions found here, a more in-depth explanation of the Myers-Briggs letters found here, and the descriptions of the nine Enneagram types found here (scroll to bottom of the page)MORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What do happy moms do on a regular basis to stave off stress, grumpiness, and dissatisfaction? We know that no mom is happy ALL the time, but in Episode 137 we’re digging deep into five habits of mostly-happy moms. Next week we’ll share five more habits to round out this two-part series. Enjoy! Part 2 of See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Happy New Year, friends! Before we launch headlong into 2018 we’re taking a quick look back at what happened for each of us–and the podcast–in 2017. Looking back at the year behind us is a helpful way to discover what we want to see more (or less) of in the coming year. Join us, and let us know what hopes and intentions you have for 2018!LINKS MENTIONED:Our look-back was inspired in part by this episode of The Girl Next Door Podcast: 2017 Wrap-Up & Skin Care Like A BossAlso this from Gretchen Rubin made us think: An Interesting and Useful Exercise: The Year-End Review with Myself.And Gretchen’s post led us to this article by Marci Alboher on the New York Times Shifting Careers blog: Year-End Review, With YourselfMORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A toddler who won’t stay in his room at bedtime, a seven-year-old with a fibbing habit, and the age-old questions of “what do you do with a two-year-old while you put the baby to bed?” and “why do my kids have such a hard time occupying themselves?”. In Episode 135 of The Mom Hour, Sarah and Meagan offer empathy, encouragement, and a few helpful tips for these listener questions. Take a listen!LINKS MENTIONED:Meghan Leahy, Parent Coach and On Parenting from The Washington Times contributor on dealing with a toddler who won’t stay in bedKids and Lying, an excerpt from Positive Discipline A-Z by Jane Nelson, from positivediscipline.comWill a little girl’s lies become a lifelong bad habit? Meghan Leahy, Parent CoachOur Little Liars, an interview with Dr. Laura Markham on themotherco.comMORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We’re answering a TON of your parenting questions in this week’s episode, and it’s all about navigating the holidays. From getting kids to thank grandma appropriately to keeping toddlers on a schedule, we weigh in on the topics you suggested in this Instagram post. Take a listen!LINKS MENTIONED:The Instagram post where listeners asked these questionsAll our holiday-related podcast episodes are on this pageThe episode where we talked about teaching gratitudeThe episode where we talked about cousinsMORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you’ve enjoyed Katie’s new mom segments over the past year, you’ll love this week’s episode. We listen to Katie highlight one struggle, one success, and one discovery from her life as a mom of two littles, then Meagan and Sarah weigh in with their thoughts PLUS share struggles, successes and discoveries of our own. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:Katie’s go-to humidifier: Vicks Filter-free, Ultrasonic, Visible Cool Mist HumidifierMORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Parent Educator Alexandra Spitz is passionate about helping new moms feel calm and confident in their parenting abilities, and attachment theory is one of the cornerstones of her 10-week newborn class at The New Mom School in Newport Beach, CA. Join Sarah for as she interviews Alex about newborn attachment, what new moms can do See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Grab a cup of tea or a glass of wine and settle in for an entire episode of The Mom Hour that’s all about slowing down and catching up. We’ve been moving so fast this fall that we wanted to take time to update listeners on what’s been going on with us personally, some fun additions to our regular podcasting schedule, and more about the growth of the Life, Listened network. Along the way we allow time for digressions on everything from La Croix flavors to stress dreams. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED: The Mom Hour Voices 20 (Sarah’s interview with Alex Spitz)Our 2017 Holiday Gift Guide episodes are hereEpisode 130 (entertaining encouragement) and Episode 131 (hosting a big holiday meal)All our holiday-themed podcast episodes are here on one pageFollow Life, Listened on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookMORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“Entertaining” sounds intimidating, but how about “open your doors and let people in”? Meagan and Sarah want you to feel like opening your home to guests is an opportunity, not a potential Pinterest-fail, and we’re here to offer some tips for scaling back the expectations and making entertaining fun, sane, and satisfying for everyone. Join us!LINKS MENTIONEDDid you catch our Gift Guide Specials? Listen to them (and see all the products) here!Past entertaining episodes of The Home Hour and The Mom HourHow To Organize A Neighborhood Kids Caroling Party (Sarah wrote this for TinyOranges.com a couple of years ago)5 Rules for Hosting a Crappy Dinner Party (and Seeing Your Friends More Often) – ran out of time to discuss this awesome article, but it’s worth reading if you haven’t seen it!MORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Need help with gift ideas for the teens and adults on your holiday shopping list? Meagan and Sarah are chatting about unique, surprising, and time-tested gifts for teens and adults in our third Cyber Monday Special Episode. Join us!Gift Ideas for Teens & AdultsAmazon and Target links are affiliates. That means if you click through and make a purchase you’ll be helping support The Mom Hour at no additional cost to you. Thank you for helping us continue to produce the podcast!Footie pajamas, like this fleece onesie with a hood from Alexander Del RossaHigh-end or interesting socks, like Stance or SmartWoolUkeleleCookbooks (Sarah loves this one, Meagan recommends baking cookbooks for teens)Supplies and accessories for whatever hobby they’re intoFun versions of everyday items, like these bearded ski hatsPrivate lessons, training, online courses (we like LinkedIn Learning or Creative Live), or a classDrone-building kits, like these from flitetest.comNew backpack, like this one from Lands’ EndCool room decor accents (Etsy is a great source for this!)“Roundie” beach throwSubscription box (we love FabFitFun for women and teen girls, and promo code THEMOMHOUR will save you $10)Handmade jewelry from indy sellers like BurnishTheater or concert ticketsBluetooth ear buds (our favorites are made by Sudio Sweden, and promo code THEMOMHOUR will save you 15%)Social good gifts (we’re huge fans of Brave New World Designs, co-created by our friend and fellow podcaster Christine Koh)MORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Kids ages 6-12 can be hard to shop for, having outgrown the obvious little-kid toys but still young enough to enjoy creative play and good old fashioned fun. Meagan and Sarah offer suggestions for gift giving to big kids and tweens in this Cyber Monday Special Episode. Join us!Gift Ideas for Big Kids & TweensAmazon and Target links are affiliates. That means if you click through and make a purchase you’ll be helping support The Mom Hour at no additional cost to you. Thank you for helping us continue to produce the podcast!Slime-Making Kit (or whatever the ‘craft du jour’ is)Elenco Snap Circuits SC300 Electronic Discovery KitRaspberry Pi Starter Kit (small affordable computer designed to teach programming)Big book of weird facts, like National Geographic’s 5000 Awesome Facts (About Everything!) or Ripley’s Believe It Or NotBlue Recluse Non Responsive Ball Bearing YoYo by KickFire ClassicsShrinky DinksFind a BLICK art store near you, or shop for fine art supplies at Target.comMagazine subscriptions (ASK from Cricket Media, Ranger Rick, Highlights and High Five)“Big kid” journal and good penMini LED FlashlightsCan’t go wrong with classic stuffed animalsClassic wristwatches, like this one from TimexSubscription box, like this one Owen LOVED: Wonderful Objects by Wonder and CompanyPerplexus Maze BallMORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

hopping for babies, toddlers, or preschoolers? Sarah and Katie sit down in a Cyber Monday Gift Guide Special to brainstorm great gift ideas for ages 0-5. We share more than 40 ideas in about that many minutes–come along for the ride!LINKS MENTIONED:Baby Einstein Take Along Tunes Musical ToyFisher-Price Kick & Play Piano Gym, Blue/GreenPlan Toys 50 Unit BlocksUncle Goose Classic ABC BlocksAlice in Wonderland: A BabyLit Colors PrimerThe Adventures of Huckleberry Finn: A BabyLit Camping PrimerThe Nutcracker: A BabyLit Dancing PrimerFancy NancyAmelia Earhart (Little People, Big Dreams)Coco Chanel (Little People, Big Dreams)Disney Minnie Mouse 12 Board Book Block Library SetDoinshop Animal Tails Cloth Book (Pet’s Tails)Board book versions of classic stories like All The World and CorduroySmall Gifts & Stocking StuffersGirls’ Hair Bow Subscription Club from LittlePoppyCoWinter Wonderland LED Snowflake Spin WandMelissa & Doug On the Go Water Wow! Reusable Water-Reveal Activity PadsActivity CentersLeapFrog Learn and Groove Musical Table Activity CenterLewo Large 8 in 1 Bead MAze Cube First Toddlers Learning Toy Wooden Activity CenterFisher-Price Laugh & Learn Around The Town Learning TableSomething To PushStep2 Little Helper’s Shopping Cart-PinkLittle Tykes Shopping CartBaby Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker by vTechSomething To RideRadio Flyer 4-in-1 Stroll ‘N TrikeRadio Flyer 535 My 1St Scooter SportMicro Kickboard Micro Mini 3-in-1 Deluxe Kick ScooterKid-Sized FurnitureGift Mark Child’s Colonial Rocking Chair, WhitePottery Barn Kids Anywhere ChairMedium Luna Lounger Chair – Pillowfort™IKEA LÄTT Table & ChairsMake-Believe PlayBlack + Decker Junior Power Workbench Workshop with Realistic Action Lights & SoundsStep2 Lifestyle Custom Kitchen PlaysetPottery Barn Kids Retro Kitchen CollectionFirst Board GamesHi Ho Cherry-OCandy LandZingo!Something For The FamilyJj Cole Outdoor BlanketRadio Flyer EZ Fold 3-in-1 WagonPin Adventure MapGift Membership to Zoo, Children’s Museum, or Indoor Play PlaceMORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Routines help us move through the day as busy moms, so what can we do to instill healthy ones, change up the ones we’ve outgrown, and add meaningful rituals into our family culture? Join Meagan and Sarah as they offer tips for using routines to make your life as a mom easier and more fun–have a listen to Episode 129!This is a continuation of our conversation from last week, which focused more on traditions, especially in times of change. You can listen to Episode 128 here.LINKS MENTIONED:Routines For A Happy Mom-Life (Episode 20)Sarah got her idea for using Sonos alarms to prompt routines from this post by Heather at RookieMoms.com: How I use Music to Get Us to School On TimeMORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Meagan’s divorce has shaken up the family schedule and plans for the holidays, and both she and Sarah are interested in exploring what happens to routines, rituals, and traditions in times of major change. Join us for a look at all this and more in Episode 128 (the first in a two-part series!) of The Mom Hour!Plus Katie Addiss joins Sarah to talk about leaky nighttime diapers, reusable baby food pouches, and the upsides to weaning. Listen all the way to the end of the show to catch Katie’s segment!LINKS MENTIONED:Meagan’s dry-erase refrigerator weekly calendarOther episodes of The Mom Hour about holidays and traditionsMoms Deserve A Magical Holiday, Too: The Mom Hour, Episode 30Your Holiday Parenting Questions, Answered: The Mom Hour, Episode 79WeeSprout Double Zipper Reusable Food Pouch – 6 Pack – 5 fl oz (the pouches Katie mentions)MORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Are all East Coast parents uptight traditionalists grooming their kids for the Ivy League? Are all West Coast moms drinking kale smoothies while practicing yoga on a paddleboard? Of course not, but in this special episode of The Mom Hour Sarah (of the West Coast) is joined by guest co-host Margaret Ables (a New Yorker) of the What Fresh Hell podcast to embrace the stereotypes for a bit and discuss regional parenting differences we’ve observed parenting kids on opposite coasts.This episode is part of a host-swap The Mom Hour is doing with What Fresh Hell: Laughing in the Face of Motherhood. Catch Meagan in a companion episode to this one on November 8, when she chats with WFH’s Amy Wilson about Big City vs. Small Town Parenting.LINKS MENTIONED:What Fresh Hell Episode 11: Do Manners Still Matter?What Fresh Hell LIVE in Chappaqua, NY on December 1MORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Amy Tripple is a Chicago-based photographer who understands that it’s hard to get little ones dressed and out the door on a normal day–let alone for a family photo shoot. In Episode 19 of our Mom Hour Voices series Amy and Sarah talk about how to make the most of professional family photos, what to do when a photo session isn’t in the budget, ideas for improving your own photography, and more.LINKS MENTIONED:Amy’s websiteShoot Along, the weekly online photography project for parentsPrime lenses Amy recommendsCanon EF 55mm f/1.8 STM LensNikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G Lens with Auto FocusYONGNUO YN50mm F1.8 Standard Prime Lens Large Aperture Auto Focus Lens For CanonYONGNUO YN50mm F1.8N Standard Prime Lens Large Aperture Auto Manual Focus AF MF for NikonMORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Meagan’s family is full of cousins and Sarah’s more sparsely “cousined”, but we both have a lot to say about the cousins we grew up with as well as the cousins our kids have. Join us as we discuss these unique and meaningful extended family relationships, and how to make the most of them.PLUS, Meagan’s kids Owen and Clara appear in a special kid segment at the end of the show–take a listen!LINKS MENTIONED:Raising Siblings Who Like Each Other (Episode 29)MORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Too early to make meaningful progress on holiday to-do lists? Sarah says no, and Meagan is curious but skeptical. Whether you’re a plan-ahead type or not, we’ve got some practical tips for making December less hectic by doing a little planning right now. Join us! (For clarity’s sake, we are Team NO Decorations/Music Until After Thanksgiving…but that doesn’t mean we can’t make lists and plans, right?)LINKS MENTIONED:Chatbooks–one of our favorite photo book options (affiliate link)On Greed and Gratitude (Episode 76 where we talk about kids wanting all the things this time of year)MORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It’s been a rough few weeks and we want to talk about it. Join Meagan and Sarah for an honest discussion about how we manage our media intake when the headlines are heartbreaking, how to identify the feelings that come up when we’re triggered in some way by the news, and how to help when we feel totally helpless.This episode was inspired in part by fellow podcasters Asha and Christine of the Edit Your Life show, Kristen and Liz of Spawned, and Sarah and Kristen of Selfie, all of whom have tackled tough subjects related to the news in recent episodes.LINKS MENTIONED:Edit Your Life Show Ep97: Moving Forward Under StressSpawned Ep89: Harvey Weinstein and Sexual HarassmentSelfie Ep03: Self-Care in the Face of TragedyKaren Walrond of the Make Light podcast, who continues to bring light and even humor to the very personal issue of her family’s Harvey loss (here’s her Harvey story on the podcast)Other episodes of The Mom Hour on related topics:Your Media Diet: Is it Healthy? (Episode 03)Talking To Kids About Tragic Events (Sarah’s interview with Dr. Jennifer Freed)Motherhood, Politics & Nuance (Sarah’s interview with Sarah Stewart Holland)Self Care as Self Preservation (Episode 104)Radical Self Care & Cultivating Creativity (Sarah’s interview with Doña Bumgarner)Sarah mentioned the always-helpful “ways to help” posts from Cool Mom Picks, like this one about Puerto Rico relief effortsNPR’s Up First podcastMORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When to start giving kids an allowance, paying for chores, getting mentally psyched up for baby #2, and dealing with kids’ annoying habits–these are the parenting challenges and motherhood topics we’re tackling in the latest Listener Questions episode of The Mom Hour. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:Episode 15 on Chores & Delegation (which has more discussion on allowances and paying for chores)The Opposite of Spoiled by Ron Leiber, where Sarah’s husband got the Powers family spend/save/give systemEpisode 7 on How To Know When You’re Done Having BabiesIgnore It by Catherine PearlmanCrunchy Cocktail Hour, Life Listened’s newest podcast!WinCo (Katie’s new favorite grocery store) locationsSarah’s interview with teacher-mama Elizabeth Chapman of Teaching Sam & ScoutMORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Helping kids navigate friendships and social dynamics is one of the most commonly-requested topics from our listeners. That’s why we’re so thrilled to welcome Dr. Eileen Kennedy-Moore, an author, psychologist, and expert on children’s friendships, to this special episode of The Mom Hour Voices series.Sarah asks Dr. Eileen about helping kids who feel left out a school, how to handle the emotional ups and downs of elementary school friendships, and why playdates are so much more important than we might think. Dr. Eileen also talks about the new book she co-authored, Growing Friendships: A Kids’ Guide To Making And Keeping Friends, and even answers questions submitted by our listener community. Enjoy!LINKS MENTIONED:Dr. Eileen’s websiteGrowing Friendships: A Kids’ Guide to Making and Keeping Friends The Growing Friendships blog on Psychology TodayWhen Your Child Says, “Nobody Likes Me!” (Growing Friendships blog, Psychology Today)Can You Be Too Supportive of Your Child’s Negative Feelings? (Growing Friendships blog, Psychology Today)Dr. Friendtastic, Dr. Eileen’s site geared toward kidsMORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Closely spaced babies, tips on room-sharing, helping siblings get along, and dealing with super-shy toddlers. These are the topics we cover in this week’s episode–all of which are inspired by listeners’ real lives and kids. Join us as we hear from YOU and then offer our advice (which is as usual, mostly “hang in there…it gets better…that’s totally normal…you’re doing great”). Enjoy!LINKS MENTIONED:Facebook thread about closely spaced babiesMORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sarah’s the Type-A, detailed one; Meagan’s the free spirit who’s super laid-back. Right? Or is there more? In Episode 121 we share the ways in which we break type from our typical molds–go figure! we’re not two-dimensional!–and challenge the idea that any one mom is either totally chill or totally stressed. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:CTFD? Dear Parents: it’s OK to care. (Meagan on The Happiest Home)Sometimes It’s OK To Be A Control Freak (Meagan on The Happiest Home)MORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How much do we pay our babysitters? (Yes, we get real about numbers.) Do we expect sitters to do the dishes? (One of us gets super weird about this.) And what’s the best way to get the potentially awkward conversations out of the way and start building great relationships with the people caring for your kids? (Early, often, and as clearly as possible.) Join Meagan and Sarah for Part 2 in our discussion about sitters and caregivers (Part 1 aired September 12 and you can listen right here).LINKS MENTIONED:Last week’s episode, Sitters & Caregivers, Part 1Choosing The Right School (Not As Scary As It Seems) (which may be helpful for those of you looking for a full-time daycare or childcare center)4 tips for creating a social media policy for your babysitter, nanny, or childcare provider (Cool Mom Tech)MORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We’ve learned a lot from our own mistakes over the years about finding, hiring, and building relationships with non-family caregivers. In Episodes 119 and 120 we’ll go on a deep dive into this topic, starting with general tips today for finding great sitters and making sure your childcare needs are covered–even if you’re the primary parent at home. Next week we’ll get into the details of the parent-caregiver relationship–everything from how much we pay to how to communicate expectations. Check back for that episode on 9/19! PLUS Katie is back to talk with Sarah about a struggle, a success and a discovery in her life as a mom of two little ones. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:What Fresh Hell, Episode 24: Finding Good BabysittersThe Founder movie on Netflix (mentioned by Katie)MORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sarah sits down with fellow writer-turned-podcaster, mom of three, and California girl Lesley Miller in this month’s episode in our Mom Hour Voices series. Join them as they talk about their semi-parallel lives, the process of adjusting to life as a mom of school-aged kids, being a sorta-working/sorta-staying-home mom, and more.LINKS MENTIONED:Choosing The Right School (Not As Scary As It Seems) (Episode 16)Sarah’s interview on The Coffee + Crumbs PodcastThe Magic of Motherhood (the book!)Coffee + Crumbs blog, Instagram, Facebook, and TwitterLesley’s blog and InstagramMORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From Ma Ingalls to Claire Huxtable, Mrs. Pteranodon to Marmee March, we’re discussing our favorite moms from books, TV and movies this week on the podcast. We hope after listening you’ll be as nostalgic for classic literature as we are (and maybe that you’ll also want to binge-watch Arrested Development). Enjoy!LINKS MENTIONED:Blueberries For Sal (Robert McCloskey)No, David! (David Shannon)Make Way For Ducklings (Robert McCloskey)Little Golden Book: Mommy Stories (Jean Cushman, Margo Lundell, Eloise Wilkin, Paul Meisel)Nurse Nancy (Kathryn Jackson)These Happy Golden Years (Laura Ingalls Wilder)Harry Potter series (J. K. Rowling)Ramona Quimby series (Bevery Clearly)Trixie Belden series (Julie Campbell Tatham)A Tree Grows in Brooklyn (Betty Smith)Little Women (1994 film version)Little Women (book)Almost Famous (movie)A Christmas Story (movie)A Wrinkle In Time (Madeline L’Engle)Beethoven (movie)Ivy & Bean series (Annie Barrows)MORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What’s your favorite way to help a new mom? In this very special episode–recorded LIVE at The New Mom School in Newport Beach–Meagan and Sarah offer some outside-the-box ideas for helping a new mom, PLUS our amazing live audience chimes in with stories and tips from their own new mom days. Enjoy!Links we mentioned (or should have!) in this episode:5 Unexpected Ways To Help A New Mom (Sarah’s blog post that inspired this topic)Other episodes of The Mom Hour for new moms:Things We Shouldn’t Have Freaked Out About (As New Moms)Things We Shouldn’t Have Freaked Out About (Breastfeeding Edition)Postpartum Symptoms & SurprisesPregnancy & Birth, In HindsightGetting Ready For BabyThe Coffee + Crumbs PodcastThe conversation on The Mom Hour Facebook page where listeners chimed in with what would have helped them most as a new momMORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sports and activities should add fun and fulfillment to your family culture–not suck the life out of it. And yet, between keeping wiggly babies occupied in the gymnastics waiting area and driving all over town for team sports commitments, it’s easy to feel like there’s a high cost to all that “fun”. Meagan and Sarah offer concrete tips for being a happier sports parent as we head into this new school year. From opting out of mommy-and-me classes to letting older kids dabble instead of specialize, we’re here to remind you that your happiness matters (and that your kid is probably not a future Olympian).LINKS MENTIONED:Let’s Discuss “Sports Parenting” (Episode 18)MORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Whether you have kids heading back to the classroom or not, this time of year feels like an opportunity to renew routines, set some goals, and tackle some overdue projects. Back to school is like another New Year for moms, and in this episode of The Mom Hour, Meagan and Sarah get specific about their own “resolutions” in the areas of work, creativity, health, home, food, and parenting.LINKS MENTIONED:Lask week’s episode about our own kids’ back-to-school season this yearAll our school-related episodes in ONE PLACEMeagan’s Mothers of Reinvention: Foundations course–sign up by September 6 (class starts September 12!)MORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We’re looking ahead at the new school year and talking about what it means for each of our combined EIGHT kids, ages 4 through 19. Join Meagan and Sarah as we go age by age and discuss what the challenges, opportunities, and unique situations are for each grade level–everything from transitioning to middle school to hoping for a certain teacher to having to get up earlier in the morning. Enjoy! Looking for even more Back to School fun with Meagan and Sarah? We’ve collected all our previous episodes on this page for easy access. Binge-listen away!LINKS MENTIONED:The Make Light Show with Karen Walrond is up and running! Check it out, and if you’re so inclined, ratings and reviews are so appreciated.Meagan’s Mother’s of Reinvention: Foundations course starts September 12–registration closes on 9/6/17Our LIVE show is coming up August 23! Head to the Facebook Event page to stay up on announcements, even if you’re not able to attend in personMORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Supply envy, pumping woes, and prop overload: These are just a few of the things that Meagan, Sarah, and resident-nursing-mom Katie realize in hindsight that we worried way too much about in our early breastfeeding days. Join us for a frank discussion about the things we wish we’d known about breastfeeding, plus our tips for worrying less and enjoying your nursing days more.LINKS MENTIONED:Other episodes in our “Things We Shouldn’t Have Freaked Out About” series: New Mom edition, Toddler Years edition, Starting School editionThe conversation on our Facebook page on this topic:MORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Catherine Pearlman has been helping parents with behavioral challenges and family dynamics for nearly 20 years through her private coaching practice and career as a social worker. Her new book is Ignore It!: How Selectively Looking the Other Way Can Decrease Behavioral Problems and Increase Parenting Satisfaction, and in this special episode of The Mom Hour Voices, Catherine sits down with Sarah to talk about strategies moms can use to curb frustrating behavior patterns and enjoy parenting more. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:Ignore It!: How Selectively Looking the Other Way Can Decrease Behavioral Problems and Increase Parenting SatisfactionCatherine’s website and coaching practice, The Family Coach@TheFamilyCoach on Twitter and The Family Coach on FacebookMORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What does “healthy” mean for your family? What are the behaviors and values around food you try to model for your kids? And what little things can we do as parents to show our kids a healthy relationship with food and eating that will (hopefully) create a lasting impression?These are the questions Meagan and Sarah take on in Episode 113 of The Mom Hour. It’s not about any one nutrition philosophy–it’s a big-picture look at our own families’ food culture and how we model sensible, mindful eating with our kids. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:What I Believe About Food (Meagan’s Food Manifesto)The Picky Eater Problem (Episode 39)MORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If one more game of Candy Land or Monopoly threatens to send you over sanity’s edge, this is the podcast episode for you. In Episode 112 of The Mom Hour, Meagan and Sarah offer practical tips for making game play as a family tolerable–and even fun.We talk about including little players who can’t quite keep up, modifying games to minimize hurt feelings, and how to help kids win and lose gracefully as they grow. Plus we share our favorite family games and tips for storing and organizing board games in your home. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:7 Ways To Survive Playing Board Games With Kids (Meagan’s 2013 blog post)Playful Parenting: An Exciting New Approach to Raising Children That Will Help You Nurture Close Connections, Solve Behavior Problems, and Encourage Confidence (Lawrence Cohen)Meagan’s new online course: Mothers of Reinvention: FoundationsPhrase Party! (Catchphrase mobile app, available in Apple’s App Store and Google Play)How to leave an iTunes review (our simple guide)Episode 110: We Hate Fun, RevistedMORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Maryanne asks if we’ve ever requested our kid change teachers at school, Danya hopes to find balance between accepting her postpartum body and sticking to a realistic fitness routine, and Janine shares that her safety worries are keeping her from getting out with her little ones. In Episode 110 of The Mom Hour, Meagan and Sarah tackle these three listener questions–listen to see what we have to say!LINKS MENTIONED:Like this episode? All our Listener Questions shows can be found here.Want to send us a question? Record yourself (or write it down) and email your question to [email protected] HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Anyone who’s been through a divorce or other major life change knows that stress, uncertainty, and feeling out of control are unavoidable. But you CAN find ways to quiet the chatter in your head, take care of yourself, and take steps toward creating the kind of life you want to live – no matter what circumstances you’re in. In episode 15 of The Mom Hour Voices, Meagan chats with Jessica Ashley, certified divorce coach and founder of Single Mom Nation, about managing stress and getting your feet back on solid ground during uncertain times.LINKS MENTIONED:Check out Jessica’s divorce coaching packages at a special rate reserved just for listeners of The Mom Hour!And if you’re facing a life “reinvention” like changing jobs, pursuing a creative passion, or just trying to make the pieces of your life fit together better, Meagan would love for you to take this survey indicating your interest in a new course she’s putting together. MORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What do parades, pretend play, Dr. Seuss books, and playground swings have in common? If you’re a longtime listener, you already know the answer. They’re all things Meagan and Sarah kinda-sorta hate and aren’t ashamed to admit it.Episode 109 is an encore presentation of one of our most popular episodes to date–the one where we confess to hating fun. You’ll hear an update on how things have changed for us in the fun-hating department and lots of fresh commentary and new laughs on the subject, plus a re-airing of the best parts of the original gripe-session. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:For The Mom Who Hates The Swings, It’s OK To Be A Boring Grownup, and Know Your Strengths – posts of Meagan’s on The Happiest HomeMeagan’s interview with Read Aloud Revival‘s Sarah MackenzieRaising joyful readers: It’s a family affair (Sharon Holbrook for The Washington Post)Sarah’s library uses the Overdrive app for free digital (audio and ebook) downloads – yours may use the same, or something similar!The Case For Make Believe: Saving Play in a Commercialized World (book by Susan Linn)MORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Can your preschooler unload the dishwasher? Can your 3rd grader walk the dog on her own? Can your middle schooler remember his sports gear before every practice? Or, maybe a better question: Can ours?Join Meagan and Sarah in Episode 108 of The Mom Hour for an honest look at how competent our kids are at completing household tasks and being independent out in the world. We confess that it’s so often easier for mom to do everything herself, and offer ideas for increasing your kids’ competence and independence as they grow.LINKS MENTIONED:The Gift of Failure, by Jessica LaheyChores and Delegation (Episode 15 where we talked about kids and chores)Delegate Like Downton: A Strategy For Managing Home Helpers (Meagan for The Happiest Home)Katie’s kimono (this one is sold out but there are others like it–great options from Target)MORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Where have all the shoulders gone? Meagan needs to know. Sarah can’t figure out intentionally saggy boobs and is apologetically kind of over slogan tanks that reference coffee, wine, yoga, Jesus, or mascara. Join us for a fun discussion of fashion trends we just can’t get behind–plus a few we’re loving this summer.LINKS MENTIONED:A decision tree for wearing your butt-cheek-showing shorts this summer (Kristen Howerton / Rage Against the Minivan)“I Hate These G#@d!&m Tops” – Kara Brown for Jezebel (Warning: lots of swearing, lots of laughter, and we read this AFTER we recorded the podcast!)The elusive 4-inch inseam length! See all of Target’s 4″ shorts here.The “More That Mom” Episode 66 from Summer 2016 where we discuss shortsThe new Target line Meagan mentions is Knox RoseThat one time Meagan called out saggy 1970s boobs in a Vogue ad on InstagramAll of Target’s rompersThe Mom Edit’s favorite cute and comfy sweatsHigh neck swimsuitsMORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Going off the grid for vacation sounds great in theory, but most of us rely on technology to make family travel possible. From iPad-enabled airplane rides to road trip playlists for the whole family, both Sarah and Meagan see tech as a great enhancement to vacation parenting in the digital age.In Episode 106 we talk all things tech and travel, from how we keep devices charged and organized to how we manage screen time while on vacation. We’ve got tons of product recommendations and little hacks to make your next vacation easier and more fun–no matter how plugged-in you are. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:iPad MiniVerizon JetPackHow to set up a wireless hotspot for iOS devicesRemote charger (like this one)Sony Children’s HeadphonesBelkin Rockstar Headphone SplitterPocket CastsWhite Noise MachineOK To Wake clock/night-lightCool Mom TechCommon Sense MediaToca Boca appsSago Mini appsGeek MomSpotify Premium for FamilyOverdrive AppHoopla DigitalAudibleWhat Do We Do All Day? audiobook listsRead-Aloud Revival audiobook lists5 Simple Tech Tips for Travel With Kids (Cool Mom Tech)MORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jill Krause is a blogger, photographer, and digital storyteller whose busy life as a mom of four plays out in her honest writing, videos, and pictures of deliciously squishy babies every day. Until recently, the Krauses’ beautiful Texas home–and the projects and renovations they completed in it–provided the setting for these stories.In this latest episode of The Mom Hour Voices, listen to Meagan and Jill talk about the Krause family’s decision to sell their home, buy an RV, and embark on a family adventure that kicks off this fall. We also discuss raising large families, breaking outside of others’ expectations, and more. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:Happy Loud Life (for more on this, watch the video embedded below or linked here)@happy.loud.life on Instagram | @happyloudlife on Twitter | Happy Loud Life on FacebookBaby Rabies@BabyRabies on Instagram | @BabyRabies on Twitter | Baby Rabies on FacebookFulltime Families Facebook GroupDitching SuburbiaMORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Are you totally satisfied with your work/mom balance? Turns out, a lot of you are. But when we asked listeners to weigh in on this question, two-thirds said they either wished they could be home more (or work in a more flexible way) OR that they were home but wished they could find some fulfillment or income outside the home. Episode 105 is about finding satisfaction in your situation, whatever it is, and also how to take baby steps toward a different one if it feels like it’s time. We cover staying at home full-time, working outside the home, freelancing and part-time work, and everything in between. And, as always, we’re here to tell you that no matter what your choice and how you feel about it, it’s totally okay.LINKS MENTIONED:Give the Life, Listened social channels some love! We’re on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram10 Signs You Might Be a Work-Anywhere-Possible-Mom (WAPM) (Sarah’s tongue-in-cheek post for City Mom Blog)Keep scrolling for the social media polls we mentioned (or click here to see the Facebook conversation, and here for the one on Instagram)MORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

There’s everyday self-care, and then there’s survival mode: when taking care of yourself isn’t just a smart thing to do but also your only means of making it through the day. We’re talking about the kind of physical, mental, and emotional self-care that becomes especially crucial in a crisis, and we’re addressing it head-on in Episode 104. Join us.LINKS MENTIONED:Sarah’s interview with Doña Bumgarner of Nurtured Mama (Voices Episode 8)Parenting Through Hard Times (Episode 42)MORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We talk about raising kids on this show all the time, but we don’t always spend time talking about OUR kids specifically. In Episode 103 Meagan and Sarah discuss why it’s sometimes hard to talk about your kids without sounding like you’re bragging, especially as they get older. We then take turns sharing a few awesome things all of our (eight!) kids are up to lately. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:Make sure you’re following us on Instagram @TheMomHour for some fun photos and videos of our kids’ awesomeness over the next few days. We’d love if you shared your own “brags” and tagged us too so we can see what your kids are up to!Episodes you might also like:The Adults They’ll Be Someday (Episode 27)8 Milestones & When Our Kids Met Them (Episode 34)Eight Kids, Toddler To Teen (Episode 61)Why parents need a social media policy for babysitters and caregivers, and how to get started (Cool Mom Picks)4 tips for creating a social media policy for your babysitter, nanny, or childcare provider (Cool Mom Picks)Call Me Elmo (referenced in Coffee + Crumbs) – iPhone app / Android appHow to enable Guided Access (iPhone)Settings >> General >> Accessibility >>Guided Access (slide so “On” appears)Once you launch an app, enable Guided Access by triple clicking home screen button, and pushing “Start”End with fingerprint recognition or pass code entry on home screen buttonHow to enable Screen Pinning (Android)How to play your “Memories” movies in iOS PhotosOpen Photos appClick Memories on the bottom row of optionsClick on any titled event to playMORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you’re looking for tips and tricks for nailing the end-of-school-year parenting thing, this might not be the podcast for you. If, however, you’re looking for shared misery in that long, slow crawl to the finish that is late May, WELCOME. Let’s commiserate. In Episode 102 Meagan and Sarah share what’s worst about their end-of-school lives and calendars, plus wander down a few bonus rabbit holes just for fun. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:End of School Year Fun (and a few gripes) – Episode 4Parents At The Beginning Of The School Year Vs. The End (Mike Spohr for BuzzFeed Parents)Worst End of School Year Mom Ever (Jen Hatmaker)6 Themed Dress-Up Days This Mom Can Get Behind (Sarah for Scary Mommy)MORE HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.