The MomForce Podcast Hosted by Chatbooks

Latest Episodes:

Enter the Chat: The Art of Parenting Strong Personalities with Mary Van Geffen Jan 26, 2024

Show notes

If your child is spirited, independent, and strong-willed, you might feel like you're at your wit's end with parenting. That's where Mary Van Geffen comes in as the go-to parenting coach for moms dealing with Spicy Ones™️.

Parenting these kids can be isolating and tough, but Mary knows firsthand that having support and a community makes it easier to embrace and understand your lively and determined child.

As the international parenting coach for moms of Spicy Ones™️, Mary specializes in helping capable individuals who feel overwhelmed by motherhood. She encourages them to stay calm, be kind, and stand firm in their parenting approach. Mary offers online parenting classes and her popular 8-week group program: Moms of Spicy Ones, is designed to empower moms with the confidence to adopt gentle and respectful parenting practices, even if it's different from how they were raised.

Time codes:

3:00: How the Spicy One term came to be

10:30: Twenty percent of kids are difficult, strong-willed, and determined

16:00 Tantrums are part of human development and human development is messy

35:30 How to use "the do-over" in family situations

42:00 How to see the good in your child

44:00 How to participate in Mary's courses

Check out Mary Van Geffen's website

Use code: MOMFORCE for 20% off your first Chatbooks order!

Follow Vanessa

Follow Mary Van Geffen

Follow Chatbooks

The MomForce Podcast on TikTok

Listen to more of The MomForce Podcast

How to Stick to a Healthier Lifestyle with Erika Peterson of Clean Simple Eats (encore) Jan 16, 2024

Show notes

Erika Peterson has built a health and fitness empire with her husband JJ over the past 10 years. This episode originally aired in January 2023. Today Clean Simple Eats is made up of health products, more than 800 recipes, fitness programming, and a large community that supports each other through various challenges.

Erika is a mom to four kids, during the conversation she candidly shares what brought her to start Clean Simple Eats. More than a decade ago she was dealing with postpartum depression and looking at ways to positively impact her life and change up her diet. She started making healthier treats and recipes and sharing them online. Just weeks into her changes she began to feel better and the recipes began to snowball online.

She shares the key to sticking with a healthier lifestyle and how you can get your kids involved.

Time codes:

3:00 Having teenagers

4:30 A fun family photo in Hawaii with an interesting backstory

7:50 Living in Hawaii

8:15 Building Clean Simple Eats

9:05 Having people believe in you when you are starting something

11:15 Starting to make healthy swaps in her diet

13:00 Posting on Instagram and beginning partnerships

13:45 Finding people that believe in you when you don't believe in yourself

17:45 All about small changes for big results

20:10 The magic of bulk prep and make things you know your family will eat

22:40 How she creates all the protein flavors like bananas foster and cookies and cream

29:15 How Erika and JJ have worked together for 10 years

38:15 What is the real key to success and sticking to their longterm health

45:00 Photo organization

Check out Clean Simple Eats

Use code: MOMFORCE for 20% off your first Chatbooks order!

Follow Vanessa

Follow Erika

Follow Chatbooks

The MomForce Podcast on TikTok

Listen to more of The MomForce Podcast

Eva Chen: Fashion, Instagram, Mom Life, and Everything In Between! Jan 02, 2024

Show notes

Eva Chen is a recognizable face and name to many. She began her career as a magazine editor and has since become the head of fashion partnerships at Instagram. Not only that but she hosts shows like Next in Fashion and has written many children's books – and it just so happens her newest one comes out today!

Eva is a delight. She is authentic as she shares her career and regular busy mom life – including what her daily life looks like in New York City – I loved to hear about her experiences as a wife, mom, friend, and business powerhouse. You are going to love hearing from her.

Time codes:

1:00 Family life in New York City

1:20 Getting a family dog

2:45 School pickup

13:17 Finding your own beehive instead of village and how to create one

15:49 Social media is moving away from a super manicured, perfect mom stereotype and showing more of the authentic side of parenting.

16:50 Why she does not compare her life to anyone elses.

21:26 Why Eva is all about low maintenance friendships during this season of her life

22:58 How to be transparent in relationships and let other people help you when you need it

Order We Are Golden

Use code: MOMFORCE for 20% off your first Chatbooks order!

Follow Vanessa

Follow Eva

Follow Chatbooks

The MomForce Podcast on TikTok

Listen to more of The MomForce Podcast

Unlocking Daily Peace: Insights and Tips from Poet & Artist Morgan Harper Nichols Dec 26, 2023

Show notes

Artist Morgan Harper Nichols has inspired millions of people with her poetry, music, artwork, and affirmations. In this conversation from December of 2022, Morgan shares what it was like to find out that she is on the autism spectrum at the age of 31. In addition to that, Vanessa shares her experience getting an ADHD diagnosis last year. They both share their journeys of self discovery since those diagnoses. Listen to this episode to hear why Morgan chose to write a book about finding peace and her practical tips for everyday life. Since recording this episode Morgan has continued to share her words and art with the world as well as go back to school to earn her Master's Degree. Congrats Morgan!

Morgan shares daily affirmations and encouragement on Instagram @thestorytellerco and @morganharpernichols

Time codes:

2:59 A favorite photo of her family that captures an everyday magical moment

5:32 Morgan's journey of finding out she was on the autism spectrum

7:25 How she finds time to create art

8:20 Where Peace is a Practice came from

10:47 Morgan's motherhood experience

17:07 How breathwork can change your life

19:52 Morgan's boundaries with social media

22:24 Autism and social events

34:18 Different communication styles

38:08 Why Morgan loves to journal

42:36 A recent family photo that has become a favorite

44:43 Photo organization tips

47:24 What is next for Morgan

Use code: MOMFORCE for 20% off your first Chatbooks order!

Follow Vanessa

Follow Morgan

Follow Chatbooks

The MomForce Podcast on TikTok

Listen to more of The MomForce Podcast

Hannah Neeleman of Ballerina Farm: Pig Farmer, Juilliard-Trained Ballerina, Beauty Queen, and Soon-to-Be Mother of Eight (encore) Dec 19, 2023

Show notes

Since Hannah Neeleman of Ballerina Farm was on the podcast in May of 2023 a lot has changed! She is expecting her eighth child very soon and has grown her follower count from 2 million to more than 8 million.

She not only competed in the Mrs. America pageant, but she won! An amazing clip of her talking on stage about the empowering beauty of childbirth went viral. And as of today, she is just weeks away from delivering her 8th child! And she competes in Mrs World in January. I don't know how she does it! But more than 8 million people get to follow along on Instagram and TikTok as she shares her idyllic life at Ballerina Farm, catching glimpses of her daily life on the farm milking the cows, making gorgeous sourdough bread, and cooking with her kids.

Hannah was so lovely and generous when we recorded this episode – sharing her journey from Julliard and the big city to farming in the small town of Kamas, Utah. She truly is one of the nicest people I know–and one of the most patient. You're just going to love hearing from her and what is next for Ballerina Farm!

Time codes:

2:20 Hannah's childhood in the flower shop and being homeschooled

4:03 How she ended up dancing at Juilliard

5:28 Hannah's first pageant and why she started doing them

7:43 Getting married and living in New York City

10:16 Why they started Ballerina Farm with pigs

15:07 Getting the kids involved on the farm

16:53 Being real on social media

24:06 Hannah and Daniel on having more kids

26:45 The experience of birth

31:56 Date night and screen time

41:00 Beauty in imperfect photos

43:11 What's next for Ballerina Farm

Use code: MOMFORCE for 20% off your first Chatbooks order!

Follow Vanessa

Follow Hannah

Follow Chatbooks

Check out Ballerina Farm

The MomForce Podcast on TikTok

Listen to more of The MomForce Podcast

Enter the Chat: Help! How Do I Get My Kids to Sleep with Toddler Sleep Coach Jessica Berk Dec 12, 2023

Show notes

Unlock the secrets to a restful night's sleep for both parents and little ones with Toddler Sleep Coach Jessica Berk on this episode of "Enter the Chat." If you're struggling with bedtime battles, midnight wake-ups, or nightmares, Jessica has the answers you've been searching for. As a certified sleep expert, she has successfully guided countless families in establishing and maintaining effective sleep routines. From toddlers to older kids, Jessica shares invaluable insights on making bedtime a breeze. Plus, she unveils a foolproof plan for holiday travel, ensuring a seamless return home. Dive into this must-listen episode for practical tips on addressing common sleep issues and reclaiming peaceful nights for your entire family.

Time codes:

2:41 What is the best age to move a child from the crib to a bed?

4:09 Playing musical beds every night and how to create new habits

5:43 How are your kids falling asleep at bedtime?

9:00 Handling things at bedtime around 7 PM is a lot more doable then waking up in the middle of the night

15:48 What to do about monsters under the bed and other nightmares

20:15 The best universal bedtime and why it is important

20:54 How to get older kids to go to bed at a reasonable time

21:30 What to do about siblings that share a room and keep each other up talking at night

24:27 The average amount of sleep every age group should be getting

25:12 The best ways to handle holiday travel and not mess up sleep routines

29:21 Free toddler sleep masterclass

Use code: MOMFORCE for 20% off your first Chatbooks order!

Follow Vanessa

Follow Jessica

Follow Chatbooks

Check out Jessica's website

Jessica's FREE Toddler Sleep Course

The MomForce Podcast on TikTok

Listen to more of The MomForce Podcast

Loving Life After Tragedy: Home, Happiness, and Holiday Traditions with Stephanie Nielson Dec 05, 2023

Show notes

Stephanie Nielson began sharing her life in 2005 through her blog the NieNie Dialogues, she centered her writing on home life and motherhood. Then in 2008, she was in a fiery plane crash with her husband Christian. They both survived but she was badly burned over more than 80 percent of her body. She then wrote her New York Times bestseller, "Heaven is Here" about the entire experience.

During our conversation, Stephanie shares what life looks like now that kids are growing up and moving out of the house, what daily little things make all the difference in creating a happy home, and how simplicity is key to making holiday time extra special. Stephanie is a delight and inspiration – I know you will love hearing from her.

Time codes:

5:43 Seasons and the beauty of change

8:38 Why Stephanie's story has touched so many lives

13:24 How to turn a bad day around

18:11 Raising teenagers and young adults

21:42 Full circle moment for Stephanie with the Arizona Burn Center

34:38 The importance of documenting her family's life

Use code: MOMFORCE for 20% off your first Chatbooks order!

Follow Vanessa

Follow Stephanie

Follow Chatbooks

Check out Stephanie's Blog

Stephanie's Chatbooks Ad

The MomForce Podcast on TikTok

Listen to more of The MomForce Podcast

Enter the Chat: LIVE with Susan Peterson on All Things Entrepreneurship and Going for Your Dreams Nov 20, 2023

Show notes

Dubbed "The Godfather" by Vanessa, Susan Peterson is a well known name in the entrepreneur world. Known for her super successful baby moccasin and bag brand, Freshly Picked. Susan started Freshly Picked at home with her sewing machine making every pair of leather shoes by hand. She started to grow and decided to go on Shark Tank. Since her appearance on the show years ago, she has built an incredible brand and is working on three more.

In this first ever live episode of the MomForce Podcast, Vanessa and Susan answer questions from a studio audience comprised of female founders and entrepreneurs. They touch on everything from handling the mental load at home to knowing when you need funding. Not only that but Susan emphasizes the value of mentorship, the reality of facing failures, and the importance of mental health in your journey. Listen in and be inspired!

Time codes:

02:54 The First Q4 Experience & Marketing with Kourtney Kardashian

5:32 Gifting Dad a Christmas Book Mishap

7:58 Making Genuine Connections

9:42 Finding Purpose in Business

12:25 The Fear of Failure

14:54 Advice for Moms Stepping into Entrepreneurship

19:15 Supporting Other Women's Businesses

20:46 The Hardest Part of Susan's Entreprenuer Life

23:20 Funding and Accountability in Business Growth

27:59 Starting a Business After 13 Years Home with 4 Kids

32:55 What Susan is Doing Next

Use code: MOMFORCE for 20% off your first Chatbooks order!

Follow Vanessa

Follow Susan

Follow Chatbooks

The MomForce Podcast on TikTok

Listen to more of The MomForce Podcast

Enter the Chat: Kelly Stumpe, "The Car Mom," Explains How to Choose the Best Family Car and Avoid Common Safety Mistakes Nov 14, 2023

Show notes

Known as "The Car Mom", Kelly Stumpe is a go-to expert when it comes to finding the perfect car for your family. she provides invaluable insights such as the ideal car for accommodating multiple car seats, optimal trunk space, and top safety features in the event of a crash. Explore Kelly's expert advice as she addresses questions from our MomForce community, offering valuable tips on what features to prioritize when choosing a car and which models to avoid. Don't miss her verdict on the timeless minivan vs. SUV debate. Elevate your family's driving experience and learn a few new things before visiting your next car dealership.

Time codes:

2:35 What car should I buy for my family?

2:53 What car does Kelly drive?

5:38 SUV or minivan?

8:05 What carseats are best if you need to fit three across on one row

10:16 Safety mistakes people make when it comes to carseats

12:26 Used cars

14:35 Teen driver safety tips

19:45 How to be safe on the road

25:23 Camera roll organization

Use code: MOMFORCE for 20% off your first Chatbooks order!

Follow Vanessa

Follow The Car Mom

Follow Chatbooks

The MomForce Podcast on TikTok

Listen to more of The MomForce Podcast

Becki Owens: Building a Design Empire, Crafting Her Signature Look, and Answering Your Home Decorating Questions Nov 01, 2023

Show notes

If you've spent time on Instagram or Pinterest then you've likely seen Becki Owens work. She is one of the most sought-after interior designers, known for her warm and inviting aesthetic that millions have tried to replicate. She has countless product lines and collabs – and today she is answering some of your toughest design questions! Things like what do I do with this huge blank wall or what do I replace all my outdated lighting with!?

I know you will enjoy hearing about Becki's journey to where she is today, her family life, and the role motherhood plays in her day-to-day schedule. Join us as we delve into Becki's world, learn from her expertise, and gain inspiration for your own interior design projects. Whether you're a design enthusiast or a homeowner seeking practical advice, this episode has something for everyone.

Time codes:

5:40 Becki's personal style

8:22 How to find your style and stick to it in your home

9:22 How to do a color story for your home design

13:40 Following trendy decor

14:30 Becki's favorite scents for home

17:40 How she keeps her family as her number-one priority

21:45 What to do with a small bedroom closet

22:40 What to do with a giant blank wall

23:30 LVP or carpet in a basement with kids and dogs

36:50 Holiday family photos

Use code: MOMFORCE for 20% off your first Chatbooks order!