The Mom Hour

Our “Week Of Real-Life Dinners” is beloved around these parts, and we have another installment coming up next month! And while normalizing the pivots and misses (and hastily ordered pizzas) that characterize EVERY family’s real-life dinners is super important, we also know that revisiting the values and ideals that serve as your foundation can help re-energize the meal-planning process. In short: there’s nothing wrong with real-life dinners, but there’s also nothing wrong with shooting for an ideal plan. In Episode 331 Meagan and Sarah reflect on the what’s and why’s of our own week of ideal family meals, acknowledging the pain points we’re trying to avoid and the north star we’re shooting toward. We also look at the “ingredients” that go into a week of meals that nearly hits that elusive ideal. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:Check out all our episodes on Feeding a Family, including our series of “A Week of Real Life Dinners.”Listen to Envisioning Your Perfect Ordinary Day, to hear what WE would love to eat throughout the day.In Episode 327, we discuss our energy patterns and how they affect things like meal planning and cooking.Read how our Contributor Jayme Sherrod turned a simple treat into a ritual of connection with her son in The Magic of Porch PopsiclesMORE 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’re trying to scale back to a simpler schedule or ramp up after a pandemic hiatus, adjusting to kids’ activities and extracurriculars is a huge part of settling into a fall routine. In Episode 330 Meagan and Sarah look at this topic with some hindsight (sharing what we learned about ourselves and our kids by trying different activities during the little years), and also through the lens of Fall 2021 (what our kids are playing and trying now, and how a year off has changed things in our families). We also reflect on how our own childhoods influence our family cultures around extracurriculars, and what has surprised us about how older kids and teens find their passions and pursuits. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:Listen to Helping vs. Helicoptering? Part 1: Episode 194 and Part 2: Episode 195 where we talked about nurturing our kids’ independence. Look back on The Fall Sarah Quit Everything: Episode 233 to hear what happened when the Powers family was over-scheduled. Check out Nurturing Kids’ Talents (and When to Let Them Quit): Episode 164Season 2 of Mother of Reinvention is premiering this week!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.

Our favorite foods and flavors are WELL-documented on the podcast, but what about the other four senses? Sights, smells, sounds, and textures can all contribute to a boosted mood OR a not-so-great sensory experience. In today’s More Than Mom episode – our first one back after a summer hiatus! – Sarah and Meagan chat about whether our sensory preferences change with the seasons, how our sensitivities have changed with age, and what specific textures, scents, and sounds we’re drawn to. We round out the episode by talking about how trends influence our favorite colors, and which ones we’ve loved our whole lives. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:Sarah is obsessed with the feeling of slipping into her sheets from our sponsor Cozy Earth. For 40% OFF go to cozyearth.com and enter promo code THEMOMHOURPODCASTListen to Speaking Our Kids’ Love Languages & Knowing Our Own: Episode 296 for more about how we feel about physical touch.In House Rules for Easier Mornings: Episode 328 we talk about being not being able to answer questions while backing out of the driveway.In Home Decor & Dining Out: Episode 77, we talk about our decorating styles and our favorite foods, drinks, and treats to order at restaurants.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.

Every pregnancy, baby, and birth is unique–and between us we’ve had eight of them! From planned c-sections to hospital births that didn’t go as planned, birthing centers, home births, and water births: we haven’t experienced everything, but we’ve been through a lot! Coming off of Labor Day (wink wink), Meagan and Sarah are looking back on the births of our eight babies in Episode 329. We answer your questions about how we prepared, some funny and not-so-fun moments, and what we wish we had known about birth. Join us!We know birth stories can be hard to hear. If you’re struggling with infertility you might find encouragement in this episode; if you’ve experienced a pregnancy loss, we recommend this episode; if you’re going through a medically difficult pregnancy or difficult diagnosis, try this one or this one; if you’re experiencing infant loss or a tough NICU stay, this episode may help you feel less alone.LINKS MENTIONED:Email [email protected] with your topic suggestions for our More Than Mom episodesJoin our special Facebook Group for The Mom Hour Listeners (make sure to answer the questions to be approved!)Check out our other episodes about pregnancyMORE 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.

Ever wondered how other moms get everybody up, ready, fed, and out the door with all their parts and pieces? We think it’s fascinating to peek behind the curtain at different families’ routines and rituals, so in today’s episode Sarah chats with two moms from our Contributor team. Lisa is a full-time working single mom of four kids (at three schools!) who has great ideas for keeping mornings calm, making time for herself, and giving kids increasing independence as they grow. Ashley is a kindergarten teacher and mom of two kids, one with Cerebral Palsy, so mornings present a different set of challenges in her house. Find out what’s working well so far this fall for Lisa’s and Ashley’s families, how they’re dealing with setbacks, and what they’ve learned works for them when it comes to morning routines. Enjoy!LINKS MENTIONED:Listen to House Rules for Easier Mornings, Episode 328Get to know our Contributor team, including Lisa and Ashley!Learn more about Ashley’s family by listening to our conversation about Life & Motherhood After a High-Risk Pregnancy and Premature BirthRead Ashley’s blogpost: Eighteen Summers with My KidsGet a special email from us on the first Monday of the month by subscribing to our newsletter here. 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.

Stress out by mornings? You’re not alone. But good news: we found the source of all solutions for smoother mornings… THIS COMMUNITY. The latest episode in our House Rules For… series is full of our listeners’ genius ideas for prepping ahead, managing morning screen time, and how, when, and where Mom Signs All The Things. Whether you have early risers or slow-to-movers, listen to Episode 328 to hear how experienced parents in our community are setting boundaries, teaching responsibility, and taking the guesswork out of the morning hustle. Enjoy! LINKS MENTIONED:Most of the House Rules we collected for this episode are comments on this Instagram postMeagan mentioned last week’s episode about energy patternsJoin our special Facebook Group for The Mom Hour Listeners (make sure to answer the questions to be approved!)Check out our other episodes in the House Rules seriesMORE 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.

Expectations these days feel like … a lot. When your energy is finite and the demands on you feel, well, INfinite, we find it helps to begin with self-awareness. What drains your energy as a mom? When are you naturally at your best? If you’re depleted, is it physical, mental, or emotional energy that’s in shortest supply? And if you’re in a low-energy season – whether it’s a day, a week, a month, or a year – can you reprioritize and reframe so that you’re not further weighed down by guilt or unrealistic expectations? Sarah and Meagan look at these questions and more in Episode 327. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:For more episodes on productivity and time management, click hereMORE 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.

Every family’s breakfast routine looks different – and that’s OK. Whether you’re all about prep-ahead dishes that fill up hungry kids on weekday mornings, or are just trying to make it out the door in one piece with a cereal bar for the road, we’re here to validate that not every single breakfast needs to look perfect, or tick every nutritional box. Join Meagan and Sarah for Episode 326, a zoom in on the first meal of the day. We talk about our family cultures around breakfast, how weekends look (very) different from weekday mornings, and how things have shifted as kids have gotten older. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:We mentioned our series on feeding toddlers including the episodes Feeding Toddlers, Part 1: Feeding A Toddler In Transition, Feeding Toddlers, Part 2: Help! I Have A Picky Eater., and Feeding Toddlers, Part 3: Toddler Eating Strategies, Meal By MealWe love the podcast Didn’t I Just Feed You for all things feeding a family (all their breakfast-themed episodes are here)For more episodes about feeding our families, head hereSarah mentioned loving her blender, popsicle molds and Hexclad pansMeagan mentioned her Kitchenaid Electric Kettle and her Pampered Chef Batter BowlsMORE 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 and Sarah are inviting you in for a good old-fashioned catch-up sesh as we wind down Summer 2021. There’s a bit of everything in today’s episode: updates on our own kid and family milestones, reflections on the second pandemic summer (a few fails, some sweet moments, and everything in between), thoughts on the strange time of year that is mid-August, and some of what’s been keeping us entertained lately (books, TV, podcasts, and more!). Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:Meagan shared about Clara’s summer camp nervousness hereSarah talked about one of her kids’ inflexibility and penchant for extreme disappointment in this episodeIf you’re still getting to know us, you might like other “grab bag” style episodes like these:Behind The Scenes & End Of Summer Catch-Up: Episode 276Grab Bag Catch-Up & Reading While Traveling: Episode 236More Than Mom: Late Summer Check-In & ProcrastinationLate-Summer Check-In & Managing Seasonal Transitions: Episode 168What We’re Watching, Reading & Listening To, Summer Edition: Episode 59Overcoming Mid-Summer Malaise: Episode 14Sarah’s older two made this recipe for muffin tin pizza as part of Kids Cook Dinner night in the Powers house Sarah’s media picks (those mentioned, and a few we didn’t have time for) include:BOOKS | Dusk Night Dawn by Anne Lammott, Dear Edward by Ann Napolitano (affiliate links)PODCASTS | Your Own Backyard, Even The Rich Madonna Series, Toxic (The Britney Spears Story)TV | The Right Stuff, Ted Lasso, Top Chef, The Good Place DOCUMENTARIES | Penguin Town, The Last Man on the Moon, Biggest Little FarmMORE 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.

Today’s guest is a working mom with three kids under five, a career journey punctuated by curiosity and leaps of faith, and a brand new role as Content Manager for The Mom Hour! Please help us welcome Amanda Park to the team, and join us for a conversation that covers her working mom journey through several big industries, how she found The Mom Hour as a listener (and eventually joined our team), and what it’s been like working behind the scenes as we expand our content goals this summer. We also chat about personality stuff, Amanda’s current wins and challenges in the trenches of motherhood, and offer a sneak peek into what’s coming up this fall with our new team of contributors. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:Meet The Mom Hour Contributor Team!Meagan recommended that Amanda look at the Misidentifying articles at Enneagram Institute (Sarah benefitted from Misidentifying 1 and 6, for example; Meagan was helped by Misidentifying 2 and 7)Anytime we mention the Enneagram, we like to recommend this test, and the type descriptions found hereMORE 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 ever fantasized about a week on a tropical island, a whole day in the spa, a winning lottery ticket, or – let’s be honest – even just a hot cup of coffee you get to finish in one sitting, you’re not alone. As busy, tired mamas it’s natural to dream about a life different from the one we’re living. But it’s also helpful, we think, to point those daydreams in a slightly more achieve-able direction, and that’s what Meagan and Sarah are doing in today’s episode. Join us as we each envision our version of a perfect, ordinary day: a day that exists within the actual framework of our current homes, jobs, cars, kids, and schedule, but where the stars align to leave us feeling especially happy and fulfilled. Play along at home and think about what key elements go into your own ideal ordinary day – it’s part fun fantasy and part food for thought. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:Want to make notes or journal about your own perfect ordinary day? Use this free printable!Join our special Facebook Group for The Mom Hour Listeners (make sure to answer the questions to be approved!)We like to fantasize on this show sometimes…check out our other fantasy themed episodes More Than Mom: Our Fantasy Kitchens and More Than Mom: Meagan And Sarah Get Stranded On A Deserted IslandMORE 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 goody bags to party guest lists, opening gifts and blowing out candles, kid birthdays go deep into your personal family culture and traditions. We firmly believe that there’s no One Right Way to celebrate, but we do know that without some parameters those celebrations can get to be … a lot. In our latest House Rules For…episode, we’re highlighting our listeners’ smart tips and hacks for keeping birthdays manageable and meaningful. Take the ones that work for you and leave the rest – this is mom-crowdsourcing at its finest!LINKS MENTIONED:We received input for this episode from our Facebook Group for The Mom Hour Listeners (make sure to answer the questions to be approved!)Listen to our previous episodes in the house rules series: House Rules For Sibling Harmony: Episode 314 and House Rules For Travel & Vacation: Episode 319MORE 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.

Annoyed. Irritated. Short-fused. Anyone else feeling low-level grumpy lately? When it’s not an actual crisis, deep exhaustion, crippling overwhelm, or another significantly hard season of motherhood, it can be tricky to identify the reasons behind–and the strategies to help with–a bad mood. But we know one thing for sure: sometimes it helps to vent a bit. In Episode 322 of The Mom Hour, Meagan and Sarah air some very petty gripes about what’s driving us bonkers lately, and then do a little self-reflection about what triggers our annoyance, how our personalities manifest it, and how to reframe it and reset our moods. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:New to Enneagram? We always recommend this free online test, and the type descriptions found here. Love the Enneagram and haven’t heard us talk about it? Try this episode, and this one, and this one.We mentioned the article Here’s What Makes You Angry, Based On Your Enneagram Type (Susan Storm, Psychology Junkie)Want to leave us a voicemail and vent about your own petty annoyances? Use Speakpipe!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.

From breakfast to snacks, lunch to dinner to even dessert, each day holds plenty of opportunity to introduce new flavors and textures, teach table skills, and introduce micro-doses of nutrition into your toddler’s tummy. Meagan and Sarah cover each meal and the specific strategies they used to keep them interesting, low-stress, and as nutritious as possible, even when a toddler has the attention span of a fruit fly. Join us!This episode is part of our 3-part series Your Toddler Feeding Challenges, Solved! Listen to Part 1 hereand Part 2 here.LINKS MENTIONED:Learn more about our sponsor, Horizon Organic, and the Growing Years line of products for kids ages 1 to 5BabyCenter poll: On what sort of schedule does your toddler eat?BabyCenter community thread: How do you sneak nutrition into your toddler’s diet?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.

“Picky” and “toddler” – the two words go hand-in-hand, right? In this episode Meagan and Sarah tackle one of their listeners’ biggest mom-obstacles, sharing tips and tricks to help get those opinionated toddlers to eat more adventurously and healthfully while also offering reassurance that this stage won’t last forever and that there are things you can do to help even the choosiest toddler (occasionally) try new things while getting the nutrition they need. Join us!This episode is part of our 3-part series Your Toddler Feeding Challenges, Solved! Listen to yesterday’s Part 1 here, and check back for Part 3 tomorrow.LINKS MENTIONED:Learn more about our sponsor, Horizon Organic, and the Growing Years line of products for kids ages 1 to 5BabyCenter community thread: My toddler won’t eat ___________ but will eat ___________.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.

When it comes to toddlers, one thing is certain: just when you get used to a new stage or phase, it changes. And nowhere is this more true than when it comes to how a toddler eats: from introducing new textures and foods, to weaning, to attempting self-feeding and even learning how to use cups and utensils, toddlers are in a constant state of transition – and so is the way they eat. In this first episode in our three-part series on feeding toddlers, Meagan and Sarah offer solutions to the most common struggles moms face during those transitions, as well as a healthy dose of “it’s all gonna be okay” mom-confidence. Join us!This episode is part of our 3-part series Your Toddler Feeding Challenges, Solved! Check back for Part 1 tomorrow, and Part 2 on Friday.LINKS MENTIONED:Learn more about our sponsor, Horizon Organic, and the Growing Years line of products for kids ages 1 to 5BabyCenter poll: How often does your toddler change when, where, what, or how much they eat?BabyCenter community thread: How do you sneak nutrition into your toddler’s diet?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.

Itty bitty overalls and doll-sized dresses make for adorable first outfits, but dressing babies (and toddlers, and kids) comfortably and stylishly throughout the ages and stages is no easy task. In Episode 321 Meagan and Sarah remember the joys and challenges of dressing our littles while they still let us (most of the time, anyway). Then we move into the realities of clothing our big kids, tweens and teens. From keeping up with sizes to choosing our battles over teen fashion that baffles our mom-brains, the refrain is familiar: it doesn’t get easier, it just gets…different. Join us for a fun conversation about kids and fashion!LINKS MENTIONED:Sarah talked about loving this style of romper for babiesSarah likes these 4 pack athletic tees (affiliate link)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.

Wildfires, hurricanes, floods and tornadoes; home emergencies, local disasters and national crises. These aren’t things we love to think about, but they do have one thing in common: having a plan and talking about it as a family can bring peace of mind and even save lives. In this month’s Voice interview Sarah chats with Jennifer Pipa, Vice President of Disaster Programs for the Red Cross. With an emphasis on making disaster preparedness practical for busy families, applicable no matter where in the world you live or what risks your natural climate brings, and as un-scary as possible for little kids, Jennifer is full of tips and information to help you up your preparedness this summer. It’s an important conversation, and one we’ve had many requests for over the years; enjoy, friends!LINKS MENTIONED:Check out this link for more information on how to prepare for emergenciesHead to this page to see many resources on preparing from The Red Cross 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 feels like it’ll be like this forever, but we’re here to tell you: it won’t. In today’s episode Meagan and Sarah take turns sharing big and small transformations our kids have undergone that leave us shaking our heads in total amazement because, at one point in time, we never thought we’d ever see this day. From an ultra-fearful preschooler who turned out to be a super confident kid, to the wild-toddler-turned-chill-teen, to the sibling pairs who fought like crazy and now are best friends, we’re talking about all the times we’ve been proven wrong by our own assumptions over the years. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:We talked about the viral “surfboard kid” photo of Meagan, and this is the story behind itMORE 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.

Who needs RULES on vacation? Turns out, we do. And we’re not alone. The latest episode in our House Rules For… series is all about the rules that keep our families sane when we’re not at home. From road trip snack management to beach house screen time, treats on the airplane to getting out of the gift shop without a meltdown, listen to Episode 319 for hard-earned experience from parents in our community. As always, take what works for you and leave the rest – there’s something here for nearly every family. Enjoy, friends!LINKS MENTIONED:Check out more of our travel related episodesListen to our first episode in the house rules series, House Rules For Sibling Harmony: Episode 314Join our special Facebook Group for The Mom Hour Listeners (make sure to answer the questions to be approved!)For more House Rules for Travel & Vacation ideas from our listeners, check out this thread on Instagram, and this thread in our Facebook groupMORE 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.

Is it EVER appropriate to correct another mom’s car seat buckling technique? A listener wants to hear Meagan and Sarah’s thoughts on whether we feel comfortable offering unsolicited safety tips to other parents. Another mom asks our thoughts on how you distribute your parenting energy evenly when one kid is really struggling and others are “just bopping along”. We also talk about how to get through the day as a mom when you’re the one struggling, and finish out the episode with advice for containing a super-creative kid’s projects and experiments. It’s another Listener Questions episode – enjoy, friends!LINKS MENTIONED:All of our Listener Questions episodes can be found hereTo listen to all of our episodes all the way back to the beginning, check out the archivesMORE 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 and Sarah both live in beach towns – but very different ones. Today’s More Than Mom episode invites you to come to our areas for a visit – and head to the beach! We talk about what it’s like to live in a beach area generally, and in our towns specifically, and offer tips for making a day at the beach fit with your idea of fun (yes, even with kids!). From parking to hotels, what to bring and when to go, we have locals-only insights that will help you think through your next trip to the beach – even if it’s not to Santa Barbara or Saint Joe. We finish up the episode by talking about the beach-related products we’re using currently, as well as some we have our eye on. Happy Summer, friends!LINKS MENTIONED:Sarah’s go-to beach flip flops are HavaianasSarah uses this Tommy Bahama umbrellaSarah loves this LL Bean Tote for the beach and also uses a mesh tote bag similar to this oneThese lightweight Turkish towels from Riviera Towel Company is a local favorite of Sarah’s (and they ship!)Sarah uses these EasyLunch boxes 3-Compartment Bento Lunch Box and stacks up a few in a cheap insulated lunch bagThese Old Navy Sunglasses are great to take along to the beachMeagan loves these Vionic flip flops for the beachMeagan has these folding chairs, but is looking to upgrade to Tommy Bahama ChairsMeagan has a lightweight beach blanket and a straw beach bag similar to this oneMeagan brings along her UEBoom Speaker to play her beach playlistSome sunscreen recommendations from Meagan are the Sun Bum Face Stick and Sun Bum Scalp & Hair Mist, Hawaiian Tropic Spray, and Neutrogena Water Boost Hydro Gel Face SunscreenMORE 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.

A mom of tweens asks Meagan and Sarah whether we require our own kids to keep their rooms tidy (we have thoughts!); another listener dealing with cultural and generational divides in her family asks our thoughts on how to handle well-meaning grandparent advice. Finally, we coach a new-to-preschool mom on how to begin setting up playdates and social opportunities when you don’t know anyone at the school (and are emerging from a global pandemic). Join us for another installment of Listener Questions & Our Advice!LINKS MENTIONED:All of our Listener Questions episodes can be found hereTo listen to all of our episodes all the way back to the beginning, check out the archivesWe referenced our episode A Summertime Chores, Life Skills & Freedoms Reset: Episode 315Meagan talked about our episode When You’re Feeling Criticized, Remember This: Episode 165MORE 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.

By pure coincidence, BOTH Meagan and Sarah have kids with broken bones right now – so we’re here to talk about it! We discuss the current injury situation in each of our homes, and reflect back on other kid-injuries that have occupied that tricky space in between “rub some dirt on it” and “call the ambulance”. From stitches to sprains, bumps to the head and busted lips, we know raising kids involves a lot of injuries, and that it can be tough on parents to know what to do in the moment. Today’s stories all ended well – we promise! – but we’re here to validate that parenting an injured kid can be tough, both in the moment of decision as well as in the aftermath. Join us!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.

From bad hair to failed friendships to terrible taste in music, there are some phases of our lives that, in hindsight, were just kind of the worst. Other eras we look back on fondly, whether it was because our social lives were dazzling or our fashion sense just worked. In today’s More Than Mom episode Meagan and Sarah look back at our lives – both before motherhood, and also since becoming a mom – and declare our Bests and Worsts in style, culture, and friendships. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:We’re hiring! Check out our current job opportunitiesWe mentioned our recent More Than Mom Episode, More Than Mom: #InfluencedFor more on friendships in motherhood, check out Friendships in Motherhood, Part One (Redefining “Ride Or Die”): Episode 307, and Friendships In Motherhood, Part Two (Deepening & Widening Your Circle): Episode 308MORE 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.

Lindsey Hein is a lifelong runner with more than 16 marathons to her name, including several Boston Marathon finishes. She’s also mom to four busy boys, ages two to eight, and host of a popular podcast for runners. In this month’s Voices episode Lindsey chats with Meagan about training for races with four little kids, how her podcasting side hustle grew into a network of shows (including a parenting podcast!), and why she made the tough decision to have a prophylactic mastectomy after finding out she was positive for the BRCA 2 gene mutation when her oldest son was 16 months old. Enjoy!LINKS MENTIONED:Lindsey’s podcast network is  SandyBoy ProductionsConnect with Lindsey on Instagram or FacebookLindsey’s podcasts are I’ll Have Another with Lindsey Hein (highlighting pro & everyday runners) and Why Is Everyone Yelling (a parenting podcast)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 noticed something: the end of school and start of summer always makes it suddenly clear how dang much our kids have grown. They’re smarter, they’re taller, they’re more capable, and all that means…it’s time to level up! We think summer is a great time to teach new life skills, reset chores and responsibilities, and also grant expanded freedoms to growing kids. In Episode 315 Meagan and Sarah talk about summer resets generally, and Summer 2021 more specifically – what our kids are ready for, where they need some support in the independence department, and how we’re planning on expanding their worlds this summer. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:We’re hiring! Check out our current job opportunitiesRelated episodes on chores and responsibilities are Life Skills We’re Glad Our Kids Have Right Now (And A Few They’re Still Working On), Chores, Life Skills, & Household Contributions, and Chores & DelegationSarah did a deep dive on family meetings in the latest episode of KidliterateSarah loves Todoist (affiliate link – get 2 months of PRO free!) for task management and uses many of the more advanced features to share tasks, set up recurring tasks, etc. (Would you love a deep dive on this? Let us know!)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.

Having a house rule gives parents a shorthand for handling the same small annoyance the same way, every time. Will it stop your kids from fighting over the coveted “fishy cup” or arguing over whose turn it is to set the table? It will not. But it WILL allow you to consistently apply the same judiciary process (and one that feels right to YOU) each time kids start to go at it, which can cut down on a lot of mental gymnastics for mom. The beauty of house rules is that they’re born from necessity and are unique to each family, so in today’s episode we’re including smart ideas from dozens of our community members, all in the pursuit of House Rules For Sibling Harmony. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:We mentioned Kendra Adachi, The Lazy Genius, who says wise things about house rules in her book The Lazy Genius Way: Embrace What Matters, Ditch What Doesn’t, and Get Stuff DoneOther episodes where we talk about raising siblings are collected hereJoin us in our Facebook Group for The Mom Hour Listeners (make sure to answer the questions to be approved!)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.

So many firsts, so many outgrown outfits, so many unforgettable mom-moments, and so much MESS. Join Meagan and Sarah as we walk month-by-month through a baby’s first year of life, sharing our personal memories as well as general thoughts on what makes each month unique. If you’re beyond the infant years, we hope this will offer a little trip down your own nostalgic memory lane; if you’re in the middle of baby-land, we hope you feel seen and validated. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:Share your baby’s first year memories with us in our Facebook Group for The Mom Hour Listeners (make sure to answer the questions to be approved!) or on our 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 swimsuits to fitness programs, nail polish to meal delivery, we admit: we’re influenceable. But there’s a lot to unpack about the concept of influencer marketing and influencer culture in general. In today’s More Than Mom episode Meagan and Sarah talk about about the silly stuff (like the kind of ads the algorithm INSISTS on delivering us) and also the more substantial (like the ways in which we’ve been positively influenced by friends, both IRL and on the Internet). Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:Sarah was influenced by her sister to get this L’Ange flat iron (affiliate link)Sarah shops Jane a lot, also influenced by her sister (affiliate link)Meagan loves SmartWool socks (influenced by a friend) and her Arc’teryx fleece (influenced by a very effective salesperson) – affiliate linksSarah loves following Instagrammers who authentically share product recs – and feels extra motivated to support their sponsored work because of the trust factor. Some favorites include Meghan Splawn, Stacie Billis, Erica Ladd, Kelsey Wharton, Kendra Adachi, Christine KohSarah has been influenced by goal-setting productivity friends like Kelsey Wharton, Christine Koh, and Sarah Hart-UngerMORE 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 talked a lot about how little kids (and their parents) experienced schooling disruptions over the past year. But college students, their families, and their instructors also went through a major shift in how higher education is delivered and experienced. Today’s special bonus episode features a conversation with Hsiao-Yun Chu, Ph.D., a college professor, mom of two young children, and longtime listener of the podcast. She shares her thoughts with Sarah on how virtual learning and virtual teaching created some real positives in higher education this year, and even what she hopes will continue after the pandemic is behind us. Enjoy!LINKS MENTIONED:Interested in contributing your Voice to a future episode? Email us at [email protected]. We read every pitch we receive, and we love getting pitches from listeners. We cannot respond to every one, but if we’re interested we’ll be in touch! Sarah mentioned her conversation with kindergarten teacher Kelly Hiltz in last week’s Voices interviewepisodeAll our episodes about school and education can be found hereMORE 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.

Having a functional kitchen relies on a number of factors, many of which are outside our control (funny floor plans, small spaces, or that weird area between where the open dishwasher blocks off access to that one cabinet? yeah, things like that). But as moms of many kids who have occupied at least as many kitchens in our combined histories, we’ve also realized there are some things we can do to use the space we have in ways that helps us enjoy being in the kitchen more. Today’s episode looks at what’s currently frustrating us about kitchen storage and organization (as always, we love your solutions sent by email or as comments on our social pages!), and also what’s working well. Come inside our kitchens, friends!LINKS MENTIONED:We recently did a More Than Mom episode on our Fantasy KitchensSarah’s under sink wire basket for linens is similar to this one (affiliate link)Sarah mentioned a stair step cabinet storage like this (affiliate link)We both love the OXO POP brand pop-top pantry storage (affiliate link)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.

As this incredibly strange and stressful school year winds to a close, parents are looking ahead to next fall and wondering: Should I send my 5-year-old to kindergarten, or wait a year? Will my first grader remember how to make friends since she’s been behind a screen all year? Will the struggle that was virtual learning mean my kid never learns to love school again? These are understandable worries, especially for those who are in the middle of their own first experience as school parents. This month’s Voices interview guest is Kelly Hiltz, kindergarten teacher who has seen it all this year – remote, hybrid, in-person – and mom to two boys in preschool and early elementary. Sarah and Kelly address the concerns parents have about kindergarten specifically, COVID learning loss generally, and what a 2021-2022 school year might look like for families. We also touch on “red-shirting” younger kinders, how to know what decision is right for your child, and what specific things families can do this summer to best prepare incoming kindergarteners for the fall. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:Kelly’s first appearance on The Mom Hour is a deep-dive on kindergarten readiness – a must-listen if you haven’t already heard it!Find Kelly on Instagram @askateachermom, or at her blog, As A Teacher MomAll our school-related episodes are hereMORE 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 have mixed feelings about Mother’s Day, you’re not alone. For some, it’s a reminder of loss or grief, unmet expectations or missing people we love. For others, the social media buildup and commercialized clichés create expectations that can lead to disappointment. And even for those who don’t completely dread Mother’s Day, it can be hard to articulate what we really want to the ones who want to spoil us. In short: it’s a lot. In this week’s Episode 311, Meagan and Sarah validate why Mother’s Day can be complicated, reflect on our own celebrations during different seasons of life, and offer ideas for how to celebrate in a way that feels right to you this year. Join us! LINKS MENTIONED:Celebrate sisterhood in motherhood with the Coffee + Crumbs Mother’s Day BrunchMORE 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 we “car people”? Turns out, yes and no. After 25+ years of driving, Meagan and Sarah have many stories and a few opinions on what we want in our four-wheeled rides. From first cars to true lemons, minivans to post-divorce pre-mid-life-crisis splurges, this More Than Mom episode is an ode to our vehicles. We also chat about the process of procuring a new car, how much haggling at the dealer is a sport we do NOT enjoy, and what we hope for in our future cars. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:We last talked about our cars way back in Episode 97 from 2017 (reminder: old episodes may no longer show up in your podcast apps because they limit archives to 300 episodes, but you can always listen from our website!)Meagan learned so much from this episode of This American Life, all about car dealership salesMeagan is very happy with this after-market Bluetooth adapter for her pre-Bluetooth carMORE 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.

Big news: Sarah is joining the Parents Of Teenagers club! In honor of Sarah’s oldest turning 13, Meagan taps into wisdom gained from over a decade of parenting teens and gives Sarah the real story. We unpack some stereotypes about teens (they’re moody! they’re smelly! they’re obsessed with their phones!) and find out what’s totally true, what’s sometimes true, and what might very much depend on the kid. We also explore some of the best and sweetest parts of parenting teens, validate that these are often very lonely years for moms, and compare teenage milestones to those reached earlier in childhood. Whether you’re a new mom or a mom of teens, we think you’ll enjoy this one!LINKS MENTIONED:Meagan wrote an essay for our newsletter about a conversation with her son Will, and then also wrote this Insta-essay about a different moment with WillCheck out our episode Toddlers vs. Teenagers: Episode 192MORE 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 it’s a career pivot, a creative passion, a relationship change, or just one of life’s unexpected twists, most women find themselves in a season of reinvention at least once. Today Meagan and Sarah are here with a surprise bonus episode, chatting about the idea of reinvention, how it intersects with motherhood and raising young kids, and how Meagan’s new podcast celebrates women reinventing themselves in a variety of wonderful ways. Join us for a fun conversation, followed by an extended excerpt from Season 1 of the Mother of Reinvention show. Happy Friday!LINKS MENTIONED:Listen to Mother of Reinvention on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listenFind out more, and see all the episodes at motherofreinventionshow.comFollow @meaganfrancis on Instagram, and check out her blog at meaganfrancis.com to stay connected to Meagan’s personal reinventionMORE 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 it’s pulling out the puke bucket juuuuuussst in the nick of time, or speeding across the room while pregnant to save a toddler from a toppling accident, we all know that feeling of doing what needs to be done in the moment without so much as a conscious thought. Call it quick-thinking, mom-heroics, or just another day in the life of parenting young kids, but these are moments that deserve to be celebrated. In Episode 309 Meagan and Sarah share stories from our own in-the-trenches days — some truly life-or-death and others just, well, messy — as a reminder that sometimes you have no idea just how strong, quick, clever, or brave you are until you’re called into action. Enjoy!LINKS MENTIONED:Listen to Meagan’s new interview show Mother of Reinvention wherever you get your podcastsWe mentioned related episodes Our Worst #MomFail Moments: Episode 157 and Mom Milestones (By Popular Request!): Episode 257MORE 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.

Hobbies outside of everyday work, life, and parenting ebb and flow as your season of life changes, but it’s fun to think about what creative pursuits you’ll add back in as time opens up. In today’s More Than Mom episode Meagan and Sarah speak from the perspective of moms whose kids are getting older, and who are pursuing hobbies in our own (often very different) ways. We talk about what hobbies we’re enjoying now, which ones we could imagine trying, in theory, without needing a total life overhaul, and then some “maybe someday” hobbies we can see ourselves enjoying much later on. It’s a fun one – enjoy!LINKS MENTIONED:Love hobby talk? Here are some older episodes from our archives you might enjoy.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.

Conversations about friendship in motherhood often center around those ride-or-die besties that you just can’t imagine life without (which, as we discussed last week, isn’t always helpful). But as pandemic life has shown us in all kinds of ways, regular interactions with acquaintances, co-workers, fellow school parents, neighbors, and other “friendlies” are also really important to feeling rooted in a community and fulfilled in the friendship space. Today Meagan and Sarah look at these outer-circle relationships and share what 2021 looks like for us, how our listeners feel about the changes brought about by the past year, and what we hope our friendship landscape will look like a year from now. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:This episode is part of a two part series on friendships; listen to the first episode Friendships in Motherhood, Part One (Redefining “Ride Or Die”): Episode 307Meagan mentioned this article about friendships during the pandemic from The AtlanticIf you want more on the topic of friendship, check out Female Friendships & Women We Admire (PLUS Picture Books with Katie): Episode 227 and Keeping Friendships Alive: Episode 78Check out our special Facebook Group for The Mom Hour Listeners (make sure to answer the questions to be approved!)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.

In a year that changed nearly everything about how humans connect and communicate, it’s no surprise that friendships in motherhood have changed. Some deepened over the past year, as the pandemic gave us new ways to bond (and hard stuff to get real about). Some fell away, strained by distance or differences. And pandemic or no pandemic, not every close friendship is created equal, and they all go through seasons of change. In today’s episode, part one of two all about friendships in motherhood, Meagan and Sarah look at “ride or die” friendships (including a critical look at what that even means). We talk about ways close friends can show up for each other when things are hard, how close friendships have adapted over the past year, and what to keep in mind if you’re missing or grieving close friendships in your life right now. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:Listen to Meagan’s new interview show Mother of Reinvention wherever you get your podcastsYou can see all the public comments from which we drew our community feedback on this Instagram post and (if you’re in the group) this Facebook Group conversationYou might like this episode: The Myth Of The Mom TribeAnd this one: Female Friendships & Women We AdmireMORE 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.

Our habits around media consumption are as unique as each of us is–and, when you think about it, there are quite a few little details that go into how each of us decides when, how, and where to listen to a podcast or pick up a book–not to mention the actual what of the content itself. Today’s More Than Mom episode is a look at how Meagan and Sarah currently consume their listening and reading media, from bluetooth struggles to library holds. As we go, we’ll recommend some shows and titles we’ve enjoyed so far this year too. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:Meagan’s new podcast, Mother of Reinvention, just launched – check it out!We mentioned listening to podcasts on Pocketcasts and SpotifyPodcasts we mentionedRenegades: Born in the USAThe Ezra Klein ShowDare to Lead with Brene BrownUp FirstThe DailyDolly Parton’s AmericaMasters of ScaleHow I Built ThisOffice Ladies PodcastArmchair Expert with Dax ShepardBooks we mentionedThe Outlander Series (affiliate link)The Psychology of Money: Timeless lessons on wealth, greed, and happiness by Morgan Housel(affiliate link)Keep Sharp: Build A Better Brain At Any Age by Sanja Gupta (affiliate link)Sarah uses Goodreads to track her booksMeagan mentioned Nora Jane Struthers, a listener who is a musicianMORE 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.

Imagine being 13, the daughter of an influential megachurch pastor…and pregnant. That’s how Sarah Jakes Roberts began her journey to motherhood – and she grappled with feelings of shame and questions surrounding her self-worth while wondering if she could ever afford to “dream big” again. Today, Sarah is a happily married mom of six kids, a pastor and sought-after speaker, and five-time book author. In today’s Voices episode, Sarah tells Meagan about her journey from scared teen mom to mentor and leader, why she encourages moms to seek “soul care” as well as self-care, and how to dig deep to work toward purpose in your life.LINKS MENTIONED:Check out Sarah’s new book, Woman Evolve, coming out April 6!Connect with Sarah on Instagram, Facebook and TwitterSarah has a podcast called The Woman Evolve 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.

One year ago, springtime plans got canceled, Easter dinners and baby showers and birthday parties and all the rest vanished from our calendars one event after another. As we shake off winter and look at the spring of 2021, there’s something in the air. We know we’re not out of the pandemic woods, but there’s a feeling of optimism that was missing last year, and we’re leaning all the way into it. In Episode 306 Meagan and Sarah share spring memories from when our kids were little, favorite rituals and traditions that make the season special, and what specific springtime activities we’re embracing with extra gratitude this year in particular. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:Meagan’s new podcast, Mother of Reinvention, launched last week – check it out!Sarah loved this podcast episode and called it “science-backed optimism”: Finally, a Covid Conversation You Can Feel Good About (The Ezra Kline Show)Our 2019 episode about spring and Easter would pair nicely with this one! Spring Traditions & Spring Books For Kids: Episode 202Sarah always falls back on this lamb cake tutorial when making theirs every year, and also has a highlight saved on her personal Instagram @powersofmineMORE 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.

Desiring a family culture of travel and adventure is one thing; pulling it off–and paying for it–is another thing altogether. But just because you’re not jetting off to international destinations doesn’t mean you and your family can’t cultivate that adventure spirit in meaningful ways. In today’s episode, Part Three in our series on family travel, Meagan looks back at many years of family adventures and meaningful memory-making. She offers validation for moms whose travel dreams don’t match up with their current reality, and makes a case for letting your kids see you handle travel’s ups, downs, and hassles with flexibility and a sense of humor. This is the pep talk we all need before hitting the road in 2021!This episode is part of our 3-part series Travel Stories To Inspire Your Next Family Adventure (Whenever The Time Comes). Listen to the whole series from this 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.

Have you ever dreamed of taking your family on the road? It’s tempting–especially with the changes to work and school many families have experienced this past year. Chelsey Christiansen is a full-time working mom, and she and her husband and toddler son currently work and travel full-time out of their fifth-wheel camper. In today’s episode, Part Two in our three-part series on family travel, Meagan and Sarah chat with Chelsey to find out what road-living is like with a toddler, what they’ve learned about sharing a small space with a growing family, and how learning to roll with the punches of family travel have helped her become a more confident mom in general.This episode is part of our 3-part series Travel Stories To Inspire Your Next Family Adventure (Whenever The Time Comes). Listen to the whole series from this page.LINKS MENTIONED:All our travel archives are hereMORE 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.

Taking small kids on a trip is daunting: Where and how will everyone sleep? Can a rental cottage be baby-proofed? How will little ones used to a schedule and the structure of home deal with time zone changes and grandparents whose house rules differ from what they’re used to? In Part One of our three-part series on family travel, Sarah looks back on her extensive experience traveling with babies, toddlers, and kids–especially trips to the grandparents’ and in-laws’–and shares what worked, what didn’t, and what she’d do differently.This episode is part of our 3-part series Travel Stories To Inspire Your Next Family Adventure (Whenever The Time Comes). Listen to the whole series from this page.LINKS MENTIONED:Sarah has spoken at length about air travel with small kidsAll our travel archives are hereMORE 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.

Planning meals for the week is one thing; pulling them off is another altogether. In this fourth installment of our popular Week Of Real-Life Dinners series, Meagan and Sarah share what we served and ate the week of March 8, 2021. From springtime twitterpation that led to spontaneous fast-food tacos, to a reptilian kitchen squatter, things did not go as planned for us that week–which is part of the fun. We also share real-life meals served by listeners who wrote in with their own meal plans. Join us!LINKS MENTIONED:Read the real-life dinner menus submitted by our listeners in this blog postListen to more of our Week of Real-Life Dinners episodesMeagan’s recipe for Pork and Sweet Potato HashMORE 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 always a toss-up: when discussing a new topic, will Meagan and Sarah be EXACTLY ALIKE (to the point that it’s almost weird) or TOTALLY OPPOSITE? Turns out when it comes to our fantasy kitchens, we have a lot in common. Join us for a fun More Than Mom deep dive into the kitchens we grew up watching on television and in movies, thoughts on current home design trends and how we feel about them, and what our dream kitchens would look like. Enjoy!LINKS MENTIONED:Meagan mentioned this article when we talked about those gorgeous movie kitchens from the 90s and 00s: Nancy Meyers’s Kitchens: A Love Letter in 7 Photos (Olivia Hosken for Town & Country)Sarah found this article with more TV kitchens we remember, including Family Ties, The Cosby Show, and Mad About You: 15 TV Kitchens We d Love to Cook In (Kristin Appenbrink for People.com)Sarah has this book by Joanna Gaines: Homebody: A Guide to Creating Spaces You Never Want to Leave(affiliate link)Sarah loves following @houseandgardenuk on InstagramSarah also loves the Living with Kids house tours on Design Mom and also the house tours on A Cup of JoMORE 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.

A stay-at-home mom wonders how best to re-enter the workforce, and another listener has questions about how to talk about working motherhood with our young kids. A mom of big kids wants our opinions on when it’s OK to leave them home alone–and how best to get started. Listener voicemails about house rules around swearing and the conflicting emotions of motherhood round out another Listener Questions episode this week. It’s a fun one–join us!LINKS MENTIONED:We mentioned our episode with Career Challenges & Working Mom Strategies: Voices 41 with The Mom Project’s Colleen CurtisSarah referenced Brene Brown’s Dare to Lead Podcast, specifically the two-part episode with Susan DavidCheck out our other Listener Questions episodesYou can access all of our episodes in our archivesMORE 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.