Adult Conversation Podcast

Brown is My Friend with Liz Silverthorne Jul 14, 2026

House of Colour color analyst, Elizabeth Silverthorne, stops by to change our lives, wardrobes, and negative self-messaging while also decreasing our decision fatigue, mental labor, and cluelessness when it comes to clothing color and style.

Checking In Five Years Later with Beth Berry Jun 20, 2026

The five-year hiatus is broken as Beth and I get real about what we've been up to, and what this phase of life and motherhood look like for us.

Phases of Motherhood with Dr. Britta Bushnell Aug 09, 2021

You don't want to miss this episode where I share some BIG news, and my close friend and guest, Britta Bushnell, helps me process it all, as she talks about the Apollo and Artemis myth and the mind-blowing way it applies to my news, and also to motherhood. Britta and I discuss phases and seasons of life, why one part of ourselves is always starved in this culture, how to transition into beginnings and endings more intentionally, and more.

Feeling Other in Motherhood with Emily Jul 26, 2021

My guest, Emily, and I talk about parenting a special needs child - the real deal of it, not just the saintly "special needs mother" archetype that can only be endlessly patient. Emily shares about her early motherhood journey and how she knew something was different with her daughter, the endless searching for answers, the lifelong theme of "othering" she's felt, and the elevated expectations, stress, and beauty that parents of special needs kids live with. We also discuss recurrent grief when milestones aren't being hit, how she broke apart while trying to hold it all together, and she explains what "heterospect" is.

Pandemic Divorce with Tara Jul 12, 2021

There are lots of stats about pandemic divorce, but few personal stories because of the sensitivity of this topic. Lucky for us, fellow writer, Tara, opens up about her story and how it went down, the agreements she had about romance and soulmates, her insecurities about being a single mom, what's getting her through it, other people's opinions about her choice to write through her wounds, and more.

I See Dead People with Tim Braun Jun 28, 2021

My favorite medium of over 20 years, Tim Braun, shares how his gift felt like a curse as a child, a dream that changed his path, and responds to my question about if we can contact my favorite dead famous people! He also answers the very light question of what happens when we die (and he has specifics!), shares what happens when he watches Forensic Files, and divulges his most memorable sittings of the past 23 years (PG and R-rated). This episode is beyond interesting!

Mom's Hierarchy of Needs with Leslie Forde Jun 14, 2021

Working mom advocate and researcher, Leslie Forde, and I talk about moms' needs, the destabilizing effect of motherhood, the positive shifts she's seeing in workplaces, the three things moms reported wanting most in the pandemic, and the "grabbing the crappy potato" theory, which you've likely experienced too.

The Great Reckoning with Graeme Seabrook May 31, 2021

Mom coach, Graeme Seabrook, and I discuss what I call "The Great Reckoning" that's coming for us parents after the pandemic. We talk about what moms have lost most during the pandemic, unexpected side effects of returning to some normalcy, the summer ahead, and what Graeme sees coming up for moms after this wild year of emotional and logistical scrambling. And I also share a maddeningly relatable story about my teen and the violence that is wearing a belt.

Taking No Prisoners with Zawn Villines May 17, 2021

Writer and feminist, Zawn Villines, drops lots of (uncomfortable) truth about gender inequality bullshit in marriage and parenting. We discuss the thing she heard in a mom's group that shocked her, the kind of man who cannot be "fixed," an equitable solution that isn't just leaving your marriage, and innovative ideas about what we do about these inequalities for ourselves and our children.

Feminist Dad with Jordan Shapiro May 03, 2021

Join me for this remarkable episode where a dude, author Jordan Shapiro, is doing the important work of fighting the patriarchy! Feminism is funny, apparently, because we laugh a lot as we talk about what he learned in the locker room that stayed with him as he grew into a man, the problematic narrative of men thinking they're the hero of everyone's story, subtle anti-feminist sentiments dads don't realize they have, how they can shift their thinking which benefits everyone around them, and more.

Why I Take My Pill with Meredith Ethington Apr 19, 2021

Join me as my guest, Meredith of "Perfection Pending," and I de-stigmatize mental illness, anxiety, depression, and taking medication for relief. We both share our very personal stories and also discuss the surprising ways anxiety shows up for each of us (which I didn't even know until I was on the other side of things), along with the most successful ways we've gotten help. Meredith opens up about how her anxiety directly affected her mothering, and I offer my newfound mid-life hack that's a game changer.

The Realest Housewife with Braunwyn Windham-Burke Apr 05, 2021

This interview might be one of my all time favorites as Braunwyn so openly shares her misgivings about being on the Real Housewives, along with the parts she absolutely loves. She also divulges her rock bottom moments and the hardest part of getting sober on TV, why coming out as a lesbian happened sooner than she'd wanted it to, how she's co-creating an out-of-the-box partnership with her husband, Sean, and how kissing a costar cost her tens of thousands of dollars. This episode is full of realness you haven't heard before.

Family Personalities with Sandra Etherington Mar 22, 2021

If you like using data to make your job as a parent easier, your brain will love today's guest, Sandra, who is a Myers-Briggs expert and counselor who helps families figure out their personality types. She breaks things down in such a simple way, and you will witness me processing my own personality in real time. We discuss how personality typing can help you help your kids, which personality types have a harder time with motherhood (and the pandemic), and how to fill your kids' specific buckets so they can stretch out of their comfort zone. Of course, we also talk about the fact that our parents' generation would never contemplate any of these things!

From Irresponsible Ejaculations to Shiplap with Gabrielle Blair Mar 08, 2021

Gabrielle Blair (aka "Design Mom," and the person behind the viral Twitter thread about the actual root cause of abortions) talks with me about how we prioritize male pleasure even at an extreme risk to women, men's aversions to vasectomies, easy ways to make our houses more functional and enjoyable during a pandemic, and more in this whiplashy episode.

Parenting Outside the Lines with Meghan Leahy Feb 22, 2021

Join me for this delightfully unexpected conversation that feels more like stand-up comedy than parenting advice. I had no idea what I was in for when I asked my guest, parenting coach and Washington Post columnist, Meghan Leahy, to come chat with me. She's like the anti-parenting-expert expert, if that's a thing. I don't even know, but her words will be the balm you need as we talk about why the one-size-fits-all Super Nanny approach doesn't work, the pitfalls of rigid parenting philosophies (attachment parenting cough cough), pandemic regressions in kids, our "North Star" as parents, and why she punched someone in the face as a kid. She's hard AF and I had no idea! So. Much. Laughing.

It Took Divorce to Make My Marriage Equal with Lyz Lenz Feb 08, 2021

Author, Lyz Lenz, talks about what happened when she realized she was the only one supporting her dream, and how she finally got that equality she was seeking. Lyz also shares the dangers of marrying someone with political differences, how to negotiate the contract of marriage, and why it's important to show our kids that there is no invisible lunch-making fairy. There are lots of laughs and divorce real talk here as well as a ha moments about our own mothers, and Lyz shows us why when life gives us lemons, we need to throw them at people's heads.

Getting Pantsed by 2020 with Ronnie Bower - Part 2 Jan 25, 2021

Ronnie and I continue the real talk about how 2020 changed us, including a surprising insecurity the pandemic brought forth for me. We also discuss the various layers of stuckness many moms feel, the reshuffling of friendships (and how we found our ride or dies), and what small things are giving us hope and bandwidth for 2021.

Getting Pantsed by 2020 with Ronnie Bower - Part 1 Jan 11, 2021

I'm talking with one of my favorite people about how we're arriving at 2021 differently after getting pantsed by 2020. We both share the adorable goals we had for 2020 and process our grief and laughter around those specific losses. We also talk candidly about how this year triggered postpartum feelings and what the hell to do with 2021 goals, if anything.

You Are Enough with Dr. Claire Nicogossian Dec 28, 2020

In this episode, I am talking to someone we all need right now - a psychologist! Join me and Dr. Claire Nicogossian as we talk about all things mental health including the difference between responding to the pandemic and actual depression, how to cope with shadow emotions such as anger, what self-care is and isn't, and the one thing she filed in the back of her brain as a therapist all these years. This is the honest, compassionate pep talk (and therapy) we all need to remind us that we are enough as we finish out one of the hardest years of our lives.

Motherhood So White with Nefertiti Austin Dec 14, 2020

Author, Nefertiti Austin, stops by to discuss Black motherhood, adoption, single parenting, and why white motherhood is the default reflected in the media. We also talk about her book, how she healed her own mother wound, the discrepancy between white and Black adoptions, and how Black women and mothers are dehumanized (which was not on my radar). Lots of important stuff here.

No Boring Kids with Norm Leonard Nov 30, 2020

Today's episode is fun, full of laughs and insight, and dare I say whimsy mixed with swearing? My talented guest lets us into his creative life as a father, while also opening up about marriage, mental health challenges, calisthenics as a parenting tool, his new podcast, how he's making sure his kids don't grow up to be "boring" adults, and more.

Droppin' Science with Emily Calendrelli Nov 16, 2020

Emily Calandrelli from Netflix's "Emily's Wonder Lab" stops by to talk about her experience as a woman in the STEM world, and how she's raising her daughter to be science-minded. We also discuss the coronavirus, show business, and just how pregnant she was filming her show! I didn't think it was possible for her to be more likable than she is on TV, but I was wrong.

Introvert or Extrovert? with Joanne Nov 02, 2020

No matter if you're an introvert, extrovert, or don't know what the hell you are, this episode is for you. My guest, Joanne, discusses the telltale traits for both, and then offers practical tips on how to better support the introverts you love – whether that be your kids, your spouse, or even yourself. With Joanne's help, I learned a lot about myself and my kids. So join us as we talk personalities, laugh a lot, and overshare.

Moms Don't Have Time to Read Books with Zibby Owens Oct 19, 2020

Big-time podcaster and writer, Zibby Owens, stops by to discuss the challenges of motherhood, sibling age gaps, the illusion of motherly balance, how the pandemic has changed her parenting, and her favorite podcast interviews with A-Listers.

Being On Survivor with Eliza Orlins Oct 05, 2020

Join me as I ask past Survivor contestant turned social justice warrior, Eliza Orlins, hard-hitting questions. So basically, all about bathroom logistics while on the show. But we also discuss why she doesn't hold grudges from the game, why you can't get an untrue edit, what trauma many contestants now live with, who her favorite Survivor player is, what is Jeff Probst really like, and more.

Pandemic Clutter S.O.S. with Rebecca Oct 02, 2020

This bonus episode is a raw, unpolished, late night cry for help with my favorite professional organizer, Rebecca Mezzino! The stuff in my home feels like it's closing in on me and this was the pep talk, therapy session, and advice I needed. Maybe you need it too.

Wonder Women with Asha Dahya Sep 21, 2020

Author and wonder woman, Asha, and I discuss the pandemic, our new normalcy, and the impossibility of making school and daycare choices right now. We also get real about the ridiculous expectation that us moms will keep bearing the brunt of this global crisis, and the idea that no one is coming to save us. But we don't totally spiral downward! We also talk about seeds from our childhood that later bloom into badass women. And, the interview starts with one of the most relatable mom moments that we're all living through right now.

Non-Custodial Mothers with Rachael Sep 07, 2020

My brave guest, Rachael, and I talk about divorce and a taboo topic - mothers who don't have primary custody, or even any custody of their kids. The goal of this episode is to give a voice to those mothers and to break down the stereotype that a non-custodial mother is always unfit, an addict, or unstable. Prepare to have your mind expanded.

Behind the Bachelor with Ashley Spivey Aug 24, 2020

Past Bachelor contestant, Ashley Spivey, is an open book as she spills the Bachelor Nation tea! She tells so many secrets, such as how the girls really felt about Brad, the show's torturous methods to make great TV, what it's like to live in a house full of women whose periods have synched up, and the deets about Chris Harrison – is he shady? In addition to dishing about reality TV and dropping a bomb that leaves me speechless, Ashley also talks about how being on the Bachelor changed her, how she changed the show, and what life is like beyond rose ceremonies. So join me for the most dramatic (and hilarious) episode ever!

Raging Against the Minivan with Kristen Howerton Aug 10, 2020

Author, Kristen Howerton, and I somehow laugh our way through a conversation about some pretty deep topics such as infertility, divorce, toxic positivity in the face of miscarriage, and coping with life's unknowns. We talk a lot about the pandemic, the similarities between it and Kristen's past struggles, as well as what parts of ourselves this crisis is bringing out. Kristen also gives me a lesson on faking it 'til I make it, she shares a mantra that helped her get through the hardest moments of her life, and tells us how she's keeping her sanity as an introvert who's now home with her kids 24-7.

Mommying While Muslim with Zaiba Hasan & Dr. Uzma Jafri Jul 27, 2020

Join me and two Muslim-American moms who give such honest insight and unexpected laughs while sharing what it's like "Mommying While Muslim." Zaiba and Uzma discuss how feminism fits into their religion and culture, along with the role expected of women and how that relates to fertility, breastfeeding, and motherhood. I ask some tough questions, and we also get into how the events of 9/11 changed their lives, and the lives of their children. They also offer specific ways that non-Muslim moms can be more inclusive, a hilarious conspiracy theory, and the one article of clothing Uzma's dad was most fearful of raising a daughter in America. One of my favorite parts of this episode is that my two guests disagree on some things, proving there's not one right way to do anything.

Raising Resilient Kids with Denise Cope Jul 13, 2020

This episode's theme is on all of our minds as parents: resiliency. We hear a lot about "grit" and "entitlement" these days, and my guest, Denise, shares her expert view as someone who worked for years in the study abroad department at a university. She has seen what happens when our young adults are put to the test and must problem solve all by themselves. Spoiler alert: it's not pretty. But lucky for us, Denise's professional behind-the-scenes insight – along with how it affected her own parenting – can inform us so our kids have a better chance at becoming confident problem solvers who have a strong struggle muscle.

What a Motherhood Coach Sees with Graeme Seabrook Jun 29, 2020

Witness my brain being exploded by progressive mom coach, community builder, and writer, Graeme Seabrook. Graeme shares what she sees most as a mentor to mothers, and what's really at the center of all of it. We also talk about dads, how they are the wardens of their own prisons, and how they deserve - and are capable of - so much more. Graeme helps answer my question: are moms more essential than dads? And we go DEEP there. So join us as Graeme lays down some much-needed wisdom, advice, perspective, and humor.

Midlife Renaissance with Nora Jun 15, 2020

What's a midlife renaissance? You'll have to listen to find out – but I can tell you that it includes rule-breaking, and sex. Sometimes with people other than your spouse. It may sound scandalous, but Nora reveals why changing her marriage helped her achieve true happiness, growth, and radical acceptance. She also talks about breaking out of the "good girl" role, and how the loss of her father gave her unexpected clarity. So join us for today's episode which looks at one woman's choice between fulfilling her own deep needs and desires, or sticking with her status quo marriage.

Talking Shop with Emily Liebert Jun 01, 2020

Seasoned author, Emily Liebert, joins me to talk shop about writing, supporting other writers (or not), motherhood, friendship, and Real Housewives. She shares the greatest piece of writing advice she ever got, what she didn't know when her first book published, and her refreshing take on the illusion of balance. Together, we give a candid, behind-the-scenes look at the glamourous writer life (ha!), even the stuff we're not supposed to talk about.

My Husband Speaks! with Matt May 18, 2020

My normally private husband transforms into an open book as he talks about fatherhood, marriage, surviving childhood trauma, and what it's like to have a wife who openly talks about (and writes a book about) gender inequality in parenting, dad privilege, and marriage after kids. Join us at our kitchen table for an intimate conversation with laughs, real talk, and surprises - along with the telling of one of his most humiliating moments while wearing our son in a Baby Bjorn.

TMI About Adult Conversation with Brandy May 04, 2020

I've been holding onto this story and these words for what feels like forever, and I am excited to finally share with you my heart spilled out onto pages, and all the TMI that goes along with it. In this super professional "interview," I answer personal questions about my book, its characters, my writing process, my life, and more, along with a sneak peek excerpt.

Your Birth Story with Virginia Bobro Apr 20, 2020

I've been meaning to cover this topic for over a year. It focuses on one of the most impactful parts of our parenthood journey – our baby's birth, the story, and what we tell ourselves about that story – the meaning we give it. My guest, Virginia Bobro, offers her expert insight into the nuances of our birth events and stories, and the potential pitfalls of sharing these raw stories with others. Have you ever shared your birth story and felt worse after doing so? You're not alone. Virginia and I talk about the polarizing effect of telling birth stories without guidance, how birth regret differs from birth trauma, and how our birth stories are ever-changing inside of us. We also discuss how our agreements about our birth set the stage for how we mother, and the truth about empowerment and activism. We also give lots of suggestions and specific questions to ask yourself if you want a new relationship with your birth story so you can free yourself from narrow-minded self-judgment. Yeah, so this episode might feel like a mini therapy session that again, goes along with my belief that a well-timed conversation can change your life.

We Need to Talk to Kids About Porn with Jo Robertson Apr 06, 2020

This episode is not for the faint of heart as me and my sex-therapist guest, Jo Robertson, leave nothing to the imagination as we discuss the importance of talking to our kids about porn. We cover Jo's TED Talk that shook me, the likelihood of early exposure to porn in the internet age, how this wires our kids' minds about what is normal, and Jo offers lots of practical things we can do to mitigate the damage. We also talk about ethical porn, the messaging around pleasure that our kids are (and are not) getting, and what conversations we need to be having with them, even in middle school, elementary school, and before. There is a lot of laughter, partially because I have the mind of a 13-year-old boy, but also because Jo pretty much challenges me to bring up something sex-related that she hasn't heard. And guess what? Challenge accepted! Am I victorious? You'll have to listen to find out.

The Unimaginable with Mary Mar 23, 2020

Learn from the bravery and heard-earned wisdom of my guest and close friend, Mary, as she tells us all about how she handled the unimaginable - a cancer diagnosis for her son. Full disclosure, there are a few breakdown moments in here, but also, we laugh so much, my god, especially at the beginning and then at the end when she reminds me of one of the funniest moments we had together. We also talk about that one time she betrayed me, how her son's diagnosis completely changed the way I parent, and a Britney Spears moment we shared when we both lived in Santa Monica. Mary also talks about how her son's health emergency affected her marriage, which part of her life she had to completely put on hold, and her advice for any parent going through a medical crisis – and their friends who want to help but don't know what to say or do. Mary was a self-proclaimed crunchy mom before her son got sick, and she gets real about how she had to lose her crispiness in order to save her son. I know you are going to love her as much as I do.

Tools for Anxiety with Brandy Mar 20, 2020

Learn about a four-step anxiety response technique by Barry McDonagh called "DARE" (which I have had huge success with in my life), as I explain its out-of-the-box way of defusing anxiety that works wonders! This episode serves as a mental health check-in, and provides validation, education, laughs, and dare I say, optimism?

Mothering During a Pandemic with Brandy Mar 15, 2020

Real talk about mothering during a pandemic, including commentary, analysis, and validation. I cover panic shopping, what I'm flabbergasted by, what we all need to be doing (not doing) to keep each other safe, how women cannot bear all the burden of this crisis, why you shouldn't keep your kids quiet for your working spouse, how I'm handling schedules, the rule I had to make one day one, and why business cannot be as usual.

Infertility, Adoption, & Cards with Sara McNally Mar 09, 2020

Today's guest gives us a little bit of everything. Sara McNally, owner of the cutest card boutique on the Seattle Fisherman's Terminal, opens up about personal topics such as infertility, adoption, being silenced, watching her son experience racism, and more. She talks about the tricky logistics of becoming a mother just a few months after opening her store, the gender-based double standards of it, and her own pain as the catalyst for her authentically-worded cards. Sara also shares a life-changing moment with a store customer that she's never talked about before now, and she opens my eyes to what the world looks like for adoptive parents. We also discuss the idea of "whose story is it to tell" when writing about our kids and families, and I share about my past fertility struggles, how having kids makes you work efficiently, and how comedian moms and dads have different standards.

Who Am I? with Sarah Feb 24, 2020

Today's guest will inspire you, for a lot of reasons. "Sarah" (not her real name) tells us a raw and relatable story about losing herself in marriage and motherhood, honoring who she really is, and the sacrifices she made to choose her own happiness. Her story is one of survival, religious extremes, divorce, and taboo. "Sara" talks about what happens when you realize your spouse and religion are incongruent with who you are, the moment that gave her the clarity she needed, and her rebirth back to herself. For those of you who listened to the last episode about divorce and marriage, this is a bit of a different take on things. Neither way is the "right way," but this episode will have you rooting for a brave mom who broke free and embraced the forbidden for herself and her kids.

Doing Divorce (and Marriage) Right with Jennifer Hurvitz Feb 10, 2020

Join me for a doozy of a show where me and my guest, Jennifer, talk about the big D. Jennifer is a no bullshitter, straight shooter who has been through a divorce herself, has a popular podcast all about it, and has written books on the subject. She's here today to unpack divorce – and marriage – to help save us from any unnecessary pain and suffering, and also to help those who might need some clarity (whether they know it or not). She tells us all about her truly unique story, her regrets, her hot take on who should come first once you have kids, her choices that backfired, and what "doing divorce right" really means. I honestly feel like this episode could save some marriages because of the real deal things she urges us to contemplate when considering divorce. Also, I think some of you won't agree with all of it. But ultimately, there's just so much truth here including a question that might change everything in your marriage. Jen also lays out what us married moms don't understand about divorce, and gives tips on how to basically not find yourself in a divorce. As usual, there are also lots of laughs, some singing, a Hamilton reference, swearing, and oversharing on my part.

Parenting with Chronic Illness with Monica Jan 27, 2020

Today we're getting real about parenting (and living) with chronic illness. Fellow podcaster, Monica, stops by to tell us her unbelievable story and what she's learned the hard way as a parent with multiple health conditions. I share my own struggles, and the two of us talk candidly about humor as a coping strategy, shifting our parenting standards to really low, and how we feel about having to do that. We also discuss marriage guilt, sex life changes, upswings vs. downswings, the insanity that is being your own medical detective, the paralyzation that contradictory advice can cause, and the problem with "mind over matter" and toxic positivity. We both have a hilarious revelation about optimism, and Monica shares about the ultimatum she gave her husband after the passing of a close friend. If you have a "supplement graveyard" (that's a pile of half-used supplements), then this episode is for you.

The Revolution Begins at Home with Beth Berry Jan 13, 2020

Buckle up for a passionate discussion with Beth Berry from "Revolution From Home," as we do a deep dive into what needs to be burned to the ground in modern motherhood. I absolutely love Beth's honest and progressive take on how us moms are being brainwashed (and how we're complicit… shit), the consequences of continually saying yes when our body says no, and why our isolation is so problematic for us as women, but not for the powers that be. You'll also find out if she agrees with me that being solicited to volunteer at your child's school is basically a form of mother exploitation, and that "toxic volunteering" is a thing. So join us and learn why the opening scene from Beauty and the Beast where Belle sings through the town is the key to happiness, and also why the motherhood revolution begins in your own home.

Suddenly a Stay-at-Home Dad with Jim Dec 30, 2019

In this validating, relatable, and just funny episode, my family friend and dad of two, Jim Bialick, stops by to give us an inside look at his quick education in stay-at-home parenthood. Jim and his wife recently swapped roles, with Jim trading in his high-level job in D.C. for cleaning up vomit and shuttling his girls to ballet. One day, I got a private message from Jim that said, "I have a new perspective as now the stay at home parent. Nobody needs this many snacks and kids are more full of shit than politicians." I loved hearing his take on the parts of parenthood he hadn't seen before because he was the working parent. Selfishly, it was super satisfying to hear this strong, professional dad talk about how in just a short time, he'd been brought to his knees by two small people. I asked him if he would come bare his soul on my podcast so that all of us stay-at-home parents could feel seen, and thankfully he said yes! So join us for today's episode where Jim shares about being iced out by ballet moms, the loneliness of no adult contact, his existential crisis in the minivan, and much more about what happens when your clients go from being Presidents to preschoolers.

Change Your Rage with Hunter Clarke-Fields Dec 16, 2019

In this episode, we discuss a topic that is so necessary to our mental health as mothers: what to do with all that pesky rage? Author, Hunter Clarke-Fields, explains what is happening to us when we lose it, and how we can be less reactive. She talks about the importance of assessing our own baggage from how we were parented, in combination with improving our communication skills, and how that can rewire our brain – and its response to anger. She also opens up about inheriting her father's temper and how it directly affected her mothering and her relationship with him. And then we cover how the incessant demands of motherhood effect our ability to think rationally (i.e. we can't when we're having a stress response), which plays an interesting part in homework battles. We also laugh about a too-real quote from a mother in the 1800's, the seemingly flawed design of humans, and Hunter's crazy ass paintings! She also gives us her take on spankings.

Grief and Motherhood with Caity Dec 02, 2019

In this "very special" episode, we talk about grief and motherhood with someone who has a pretty heavy story about losing her own parents. With lots of dark humor and openness, Caity speaks out about what it's like to parent without your own parents in hopes that others dealing with loss amid motherhood will know that they're not alone in the bittersweet messiness that is grief. Just so you know, we laugh quite a lot and we also discuss other important topics such as Chick-fil-A vs. Raising Cane's. Caity also talks about agreements she unknowingly made following the death of her mother, how grief has affected her physically, and the destructive way she was allowing herself to have emotions (which I'd never even considered). We explore what it's like to make (or not make) mom friends while carrying such a huge emotional burden, and feeling like you're too much for people. Join us as we put some pieces together, and shine some much-needed light on a topic that's not often talked about.

Tis the Season for Boundaries with Kathie Neff Nov 18, 2019

The Ghost of Christmas Future, a.k.a. Kathie, stops by and gives us her mother-of-seven-grown-kids perspective about intricate family dynamics at holidays, boundaries she's set, and the cost of choosing yourself and your family over what you've always done. You know, stuff that no one really talks about publicly. She and I quickly go from deep and serious, to laughing and heckling each other, to disagreeing, to both being moved by Kathie's exceptional vulnerability. Sorry for the whiplash, but it's worth it. Kathie also makes me lose my shit with her take on "meaningful" gifts, and then we both confess the same holiday fail and how we handled it differently, and she shares the holiday tradition that her adult kids missed when she stopped doing it.

Do Less, Enjoy More Holidays with Rebecca Mezzino Nov 04, 2019

Podcast favorite and professional declutterer, Rebecca Mezzino, comes to discuss how to give yourself the gift of sanity this holiday season. I admit my biggest holiday struggles and we come up with lots of tactics to avoid the exhaustion and frustration so a joyful holiday can be had by all, namely us moms who are worn down from all the magic-making. Rebecca and I sort out how to specifically delegate tasks to your spouse (and she has a whole system for this), how to limit the work that doesn't bring you joy, how to change your gift-buying habits, how to cut your wrapping in half, how to put your domineering family members to good use, and basically how to curate a holiday that doesn't leave you flattened. I also share my plan for a do-less holiday "experiment" that will be implemented this year, and Rebecca shows her extraness with a funny detail about how she keeps surprises hidden from her family. I'm giving you this episode early enough in the season so you have time to implement its takeaways, before you get stream-rolled.

Screens Are Not Evil with Jordan Shapiro Oct 21, 2019

Today's guest is here to shake us out of the confusion around how to handle our kids' screen time. The podcast welcomes its first dad/man, Jordan Shapiro, who wrote a super helpful book about how to navigate this new era of relentless technology as a parent, The New Childhood: Raising Kids to Thrive in a Connected World. It's got facts, research, history, and other sober analysis, along with plenty of parental anecdotes that aren't fear-based, and dare I say are oddly comforting. In this episode, Jordan talks about the benefits (and also pitfalls) of screens in our kids' lives, and how us parents are doing a disservice to our children by vilifying it. You might actually feel like apologizing to your kids after you hear what he has to say about it. Ask me how I know. We also discuss theories behind and ways we can better guide this generation and their screen use, Jordan's own digital rules and boundaries for his kids, and the screen time change I made in our home that I thought would ruin our lives. So if you want to feel better about your kids playing video games, this episode is for you. I know the "wooden toys only" parents are freaking out right now.

Mom Real Talk with Laura Mullane Oct 07, 2019

Join mother and author, Laura Mullane, as she unapologetically speaks her truth of "reluctant motherhood," and she and I talk about all sorts of deep mom topics. I talk about my biggest fear when becoming a mother, and Laura and I explain why motherhood sometimes feels like living with a gun to your head, and also what changes inside us as the toddlers grow into teenagers (it's actually positive). Laura tells us what it was like to write such a personal and taboo book – and what people's reactions have been, what she misses most about the younger ages, and how she feels when her daughter says she doesn't ever want to have kids. I share about when I feel most happy while mothering, what helped me decide if I should have a second baby or not (which still gets me emotional, shocker), and I lay out my theory about how different types of moms have different stages of intense struggle. I'm curious if you'll agree.

Alcohol and Parenthood with Jennifer Sep 23, 2019

Join me and my wise and hilarious friend, Jennifer, for a conversation with lots of laughing, swearing, self-deprecation, and truly life-changing concepts, as we talk about alcohol and parenting, specifically her path as an alcoholic mother. Even if you don't personally have an issue with alcohol, nor does anyone in your inner circle, this episode has so many gems about parenting and making mistakes – basically, being a human. We talk about how our mothering instincts can and cannot thwart alcoholism, what was actually behind her addiction (hint: it wasn't actually the alcohol), the simplest question that turned her life around, and the hard-earned gifts that alcoholism gave her and her kids (yes, you heard that right, alcoholism can bestow gifts, if you don't let it kill you first). She also details some warning signs for alcoholism, and ways to tell if you or someone you love is more than just a causal drinker. She's maaaaaybe the most vulnerable guest I've had yet, and maybe the most inspirational without trying to be. If you are someone who drinks a little too much (or you're married to someone who does) and you're feeling like, "Yeah, I don't know if I can listen to this," because you're scared of what you might learn about yourself or your partner, PLEASE JUST LISTEN. You'll see why.

My Lesbian Parenting Fantasies with Denise Sep 09, 2019

Today's episode is in response to my first two podcast episodes. A few of my lesbian and queer listeners were like, "What the shit is this hetero life and marriage you talk about??" Their shock and disdain made me want to know more about same-sex marriages, and how much of our hetero marriage and parenting issues are gender-based. Today's guest, a lesbian mom, so graciously lets me dig into her private life to seek the answers to my burning questions. It turns out that I had a lot of varying fantasies about what being in a relationship with another woman was really like. We talk about gender, sex, social conditioning, division of household labor, periods, working mom struggles, identity, and other relatable mom shit, including my really important opinion on pumpkin patches.

Postpartum Myths & Regret with Marissa Zwetow Aug 26, 2019

Some of you need today's episode. Some of you may think it's a little extreme. If so, it will give you a look into an experience that many other moms are having, that luckily you didn't. So either way there is something to be learned, or a new perspective to be gained. My guest, Marissa, a licensed marriage and family therapist, talks about broadening the postpartum depression diagnosis, and even abandoning it in some cases. She talks candidly about her own transition into motherhood as a therapist and mother, and how it forced her to rethink everything, including coining a controversial new term that she thinks will help struggling new moms to avoid depression. We talk about anxiety, taboos, mom guilt, postpartum myths few mothers say out loud, experimenting with out-of-the-box norms in our home, and we debate our differing viewpoints on self-care. Also, I may or may not sing the world's most annoying Gymboree song.

Two Moms Talk About Race with Deidre Coutsoumpos Aug 12, 2019

Today's guest, Deidre, is so unbelievably gracious, even though she didn't have to be. Deidre agreed to answer my questions and educate us all. I wanted to know things like: How are we white women getting it wrong? What do black mothers experience that white mothers have no idea about? And, what do you wish we'd do to help you? What she delivers is more vulnerable and enlightening than I even imagined. We also talk about why the "I don't see color" thing is problematic – for all races, the friendship I lost over sticking up for murdered black people, and the fear we white women have about saying something that's not "woke" (which is not good for anyone). Don't worry, we laugh a lot today too, as usual, and I realize how to take some of the overwhelm out of fighting racism.

And this is just the start of a larger conversation around race. A drop in the bucket. There are so many layers to this topic, ones I'm not even aware of. So by no means is this a tidy discussion with easy answers, and it's not done perfectly. It's just two friends: a white mom and a black mom talking candidly about a hard topic, both with the best intentions.

Moms, Dads, & the Myth of Equal Partnership with Darcy Lockman Jul 29, 2019

Author, Darcy Lockman, discusses how even egalitarian couples fall into mini patriarchies after kids. You'll be surprised at all that's at play.

Meditation for Moms with Jeanine Jul 15, 2019

A quick, practical meditation for frazzled moms to do anytime, anywhere, with lots of LOLs. We cover the non-annoying whys and hows of meditation, including its importance with setting boundaries with our kids.

Motherhood From the Outside Looking In with Amanda Jul 01, 2019

Someone in the motherhood business (who isn't a mother herself) drops wisdom about why millennials aren't having kids, what she thinks is the hardest part of the Mom job, magic she sees that parents can't, and much more.

The Best & Worst of Motherhood with Four Writer Moms Jun 17, 2019

Nod your head along as four hilarious and honest moms admit their favorite and least favorite parts of being mothers – some taboo. Recorded from a writer's retreat.

Decluttering for Real People with Rebecca Mezzino - Part 2 Jun 03, 2019

How to store (or not store) kid art and baby clothes, why clutter is visual anxiety and why women feel this weight, we break down Marie Kondo's merits and neuroses, and more.

Decluttering for Real People with Rebecca Mezzino – Part 1 May 20, 2019

Learn practical strategies to reclaim your sanity and space from the kid (and adult) clutter that is slowly killing you. No "does it spark joy?" BS here.

Escaping American Motherhood with Dena Moes May 06, 2019

A fed-up mom takes her family to India to get away from to-do lists, chauffeuring, and kid-centered activities. Her marriage implodes, but it's #worthit.

Moms in Politics with Tiffany Ackley Apr 22, 2019

A mom in local politics tells all about how she's treated differently than men, still falls into common female traps, and resists by bringing her kids with her.

Parenting a Transgender Child with Clare Apr 08, 2019

Peek into the life of a mother of a transgender child. When and how did she know? How did she come to acceptance? What shocking statistic changed everything? She tells us all with humor and candor, including the one simple sentence you can use to explain transgender to your kids. There's a lot for all of us to learn here.

Mom Hacks I Don't Hate with Dr. Darria Long-Gillespie Mar 25, 2019

Do-able mom hacks that leverage your inherent laziness, carve out time in the AM, outsmart your picky eaters, ditch multi-tasking, make exercise achievable, and more.

The Long Game with Kathie Neff - Part 2 Mar 11, 2019

Motherhood then and now, unhealthy shifts in family hierarchy, extreme lengths for happy memories, school choice pitfalls, and the importance of failing.

The Long Game (& Mother Wounds) with Kathie Neff - Part 1 Feb 20, 2019

Wisdom from a seasoned mother of seven, how we mess our kids up, mealtime struggles that span the ages, most memorable moments of birth, and deep mother wounds.

Behind the Curtain of Motherhood with Jessica - Part 2 Feb 20, 2019

Sex after having kids, threesomes we've all been in, being diagnosed with "Cockblockers," why early motherhood is like triage, and what one dad learned about how foreplay changes.

Behind the Curtain of Motherhood with Jessica - Part 1 Feb 20, 2019

Real talk about motherhood, marriage, "Dad privilege," rage, resentment, and the complicated nature of being a mom.

Hello, My Name is Brandy Feb 20, 2019

Get to know me and my podcast. We're both slightly inappropriate, just like parenting.